These are some of the books we return to again and again — for their clarity, depth, and ability to meet people where they are. They reflect the themes we often explore with clients in sessions.

Books we recommend.

    • No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz — A compassionate introduction to Internal Family Systems therapy and the healing power of embracing all parts of ourselves.

    • You’re the One You’ve Been Waiting For by Richard Schwartz — A beautiful exploration of how Self-leadership transforms relationships and inner dynamics.

    • The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk — A foundational book on how trauma lives in the body and how we can heal through somatic approaches.

    • The Science of Stuck: Breaking Through Inertia to Find Your Path Forward by Britt Frank — A smart, accessible guide to why we freeze, shut down, and repeat patterns — and how to begin moving forward.

    • Addicted to Drama by Dr. Scott Lyons — A powerful look at how chronic dysregulation and stress responses can masquerade as chaos or intensity, and what healing actually looks like.

  • Polysecure by Jessica Fern — A thoughtful blend of attachment theory and consensual non-monogamy, offering new ways to think about safety, connection, and emotional intimacy.

    • The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook by Kristin Neff & Christopher Germer — Practical tools and reflective exercises to cultivate gentleness, resilience, and a more compassionate relationship with yourself.

    • The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown — An encouraging and research-based invitation to let go of perfectionism and live with more authenticity, courage, and self-trust.

To support your nervous system and cultivate inner calm, we’ve created guided practices you can return to anytime. These short meditations are designed to help you land in the present moment and connect more gently with yourself.

Guided meditations.

  • Insight Timer — A free meditation app with an extensive library of somatic, trauma-informed, and mindfulness practices.

  • The Breathing App — A simple, elegant tool to support nervous system regulation and heart-rate variability through paced breathing.

Apps we actually use.

Helpful articles & tools.

The following services offer free or low-cost support across British Columbia. These are especially helpful if you’re in crisis, navigating waitlists, or looking for care beyond individual counselling.

Community resources.​

    • Kelty Mental Health: Support for families navigating the BC mental health system, including peer support and resource navigation. keltymentalhealth.ca

    • Self-Injury Outreach & Support: A non-profit initiative offering research-based information and support for those who self-injure, have recovered, or want to help. selfinjury.bctr.cornell.edu

    • QMUNITY: Referrals, peer support, and community connection for queer, trans, and Two-Spirit youth, plus resources for families and allies. qmunity.ca

    • Anxiety Canada: Evidence-based resources and self-help tools to manage anxiety. anxietycanada.com

    • BounceBack BC: A free coaching-based program to support adults and youth (13+) with mild to moderate depression, anxiety, or stress. bouncebackbc.ca

    • Vancouver Hospice Society: Compassionate end-of-life and grief support services for individuals and families in Vancouver. vancouverhospice.org

    • FamilySmart: Free peer support, resources, and system navigation for parents and caregivers of young people facing mental health or substance use challenges. familysmart.ca