Erin Silke-Anderson Counselling

12/02/2025

The repair is actually what is important. Not the argument. Conflicts (relationship ruptures) are very healthy. It’s the way that we repair them that leads to bonding and further connection. Sweeping things under the rug leads to disconnection and resentment. It can be scary to be vulnerable and open to repairing things after an argument. Many couples need support to learn new ways of not only listening, but really hearing each other. Relationship counselling can help. 🩷
(image courtesy of thesecurerelationship)

12/01/2025

We all know that stress and anxiety can cause the body to feel tense, sore, nauseated, etc. But if you struggle to calm your mind, try calming your body instead.

The body and brain are so strongly connected that anxiety can be a bit of a chicken and egg situation. For example,
our spiralling thoughts may be causing our body to tense up, OR our tense body could be sending a message to the brain that something is wrong, which then causes us to scan our environment and make up stories about “potential threats”.

If you are having trouble calming your thoughts, try some of these body relaxation strategies:

- Slow down and deepen your breathing. Take a few deep breaths into your abdomen. Make the exhale a few seconds longer than the inhale.

- Scan your body and relax any areas of tightness. Drop your shoulders, relax, your jaw, wiggle your fingers and toes, relax your abdomen.

- Move your body. Go for a short walk, do a few minutes of stretching, or even shake out your arms and legs to release any built-up tension.

- Place your hands over your heart, close your eyes and take a couple of breaths. Pair this with saying something kind or encouraging to yourself. Placing the hands over the heart releases oxytocin, and leads to feelings of safety.

- Ground yourself in the present. Look around and use your senses to notice the colors, smells, sounds, and textures. Try not to judge anything you notice. Just notice it.

Feelings of anxiety and stress are perfectly normal (especially this time of year!). But there are plenty of things we can do to help ourselves feel a bit lighter when things feel heavy. A relaxed body sends a subconscious message to the brain that we are safe. 🩷

11/03/2025

Some providers include (but are not limited to:
Canada life, Manulife, Desjardins, Belairdirect, Johnson, claimsecure, iA financial group, Pacific Blue Cross, ICBC, CVAP, Beneva, SimplyBenefits, and more…

11/03/2025

Can you spot the “therapy dog”? 😉

07/29/2025

I try to make the office as “homey”as possible, but my upstairs neighbour is taking it a bit too literally.

06/11/2025

“Sitting with your feelings” is an important part of emotional well being. You don’t need to act on them, but you need to acknowledge them. What does this mean? This diagram helps to break it down.

05/24/2025

These 2 little cuties in the waiting area. They absolutely love their therapeutic duties 🩷

05/24/2025

So much of life can feel out of our control. The good news is there is still a lot that is in our control.

So if you feel like there isn’t time to try that new thing you always wanted to, have that difficult conversation with a loved one, ask for that promotion, say no to something you don’t want to do, etc. remember you are the “pilot”.

One of the biggest regrets people have is that they live their life on autopilot, or by other’s expectations.

Taking risks is key. Even if all you learn is that you don’t like something new, that is growth. And growth is always a win.

05/17/2025

Book recommendation - this is my go-to book recommendation for couples navigating blending their families together. Whether you are newly dating after divorce and worried about introducing a new partner, or have already blended your families and are dealing with all the complexities that accompany this. This book provides research-based information about parenting and step-parenting in your “new normal”. It includes specific strategies and guidelines based on different family structures and situations. All with the children’s emotional and psychological health front and centre.

05/14/2025

Did you know that creativity activates a different part of the brain than anxiety? They can’t fully function at the same time. A creative act, no matter how small, can help “change the channel” in our brain.

You don’t have to be an artist to reap the rewards. Try baking a new recipe, growing herbs on your balcony, teaching yourself how to paint watching free YouTube videos, etc.
No expertise required!

Skeptical? Use your hands and try something new for 20 minutes and then turn your attention inwards and check in with how your body and mind feel.

05/02/2025

04/11/2025

Check out this local men’s group. Let’s keep decreasing the stigma around men reaching out for support. The benefits of are immeasurable.

🔵 6-Week Men’s Series: Unlock Your Full Potential 🔵

🧠 Relationships. Personal Agency. Emotional Intelligence. 🧠

Gentlemen, it’s time to level up.

Life isn’t just about showing up; it’s about showing up fully. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of a relationship, seeking clarity in your personal journey, or looking to strengthen your emotional resilience, we’ve got something tailored just for you.

💡 What’s on the agenda?

Relationships: Build stronger connections, both with others and yourself.
Personal Agency: Take control of your life decisions – without hesitation, without apology.
Emotional Intelligence: Master the art of understanding and managing your emotions… (so you can finally stop pretending to understand what’s wrong when you’re really just tired).
✨ Over six weeks, we’ll explore these essential topics in a supportive, non-judgmental space, with tools and strategies that work in real life (not just in theory).

This isn’t about perfection, it’s about growth. No more bottling things up or pretending you have it all together. (Spoiler alert: None of us do).

🔥Ready to start? DM us to secure your spot today!🔥

Sessions start Tuesday, April 29 to June 3 from 7:15 to 8:30pm.
Cost is $390 for the six week series.
Receipts will be provided for insurance reimbursement.



P.S. No one will judge you for being a work in progress – in fact, it’s the whole point. 😉