Join Solidarity Therapy and MysticMag on their mission to offer trauma-informed care, specifically designed for those navigating mental health distress and systemic oppression. From the transformative power of art therapy to the Internal Family Systems model and the nuanced approach to grief therapy.
What is the story behind Solidarity Therapy and how was it founded?
Jessie Dhaliwal: We founded Solidarity Therapy to provide trauma-informed care for those struggling with mental health distress. Before founding Solidarity Therapy, I worked in several mental health clinics and noticed a need for anti-oppressive trauma-focused support. We recognize that oppression is traumatic and aim to support folks who have experienced systemic oppression and trauma.
Solidarity Therapy upholds anti-oppressive values by continuing our education to learn and unlearn through community educators and consultants. Our counsellors identify with the BIPOC and Queer communities and are compassionate to client intersections of identity. We strive to learn about your unique experiences and tailor our treatment to your needs.
Can you share a few details about the Internal Family Systems model?
Rim Yassine: Internal family systems (IFS) or “parts work” is a holistic and evidence-based approach developed in the 1980s by Dr. Richard Schwartz. The IFS model views people as having many different parts within them that assume unique roles and form inner relationships, creating an internal system of their own. When we describe the IFS model, we acknowledge its 3 fundamental components: the exiles, the protector parts, and the Self.
Exiles are usually younger vulnerable parts who have experienced trauma or deep emotional pain. Due to the heavy pain, they essentially lose touch with their original qualities and become filtered by limiting narratives and distorted self-image. An example of an exile could be a young part that believes it is simply not lovable or worthy of love.
Protector parts are those that function in an extreme way to protect the exile parts from experiencing pain again. Although their actions can have harmful impacts on the client, their intentions are always positive. An example of a protector part could be a critical part that uses self-hating language as a means to self-motivate.
The Self is the person that we are at our core; it is the “I” that observes everything. This is the aspect of the individual that recognizes its thoughts and emotions and separates from them. When clients are embodying Self-energy they usually exhibit characteristics which are called the 8 Cs: calmness, curiosity, clarity, compassion, confidence, creativity, courage, and connectedness.
Rather than being solution-focused, IFS relies on Self-leadership to bring inner cohesion and healing to the inner parts that hold various emotional experiences, narratives, and beliefs.
What other modalities do you use at Solidarity Therapy?
Jessie Dhaliwal: Solidarity Therapy proudly offers a diverse range of therapeutic modalities tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. Our counsellors meet with you and then create a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.
LENS Neurofeedback utilizes advanced technology to regulate brain activity and enhance overall well-being. Narrative Therapy explores and reconstructs personal stories, empowering individuals to redefine their narratives. Somatic Therapy focuses on the mind-body connection, addressing trauma stored in the body. Lastly, Trauma Therapy provides specialized support for those navigating the complex aftermath of traumatic experiences. Our dedicated clinicians, rooted in anti-oppression and intersectionality, incorporate these modalities into their practice to facilitate holistic healing for our diverse clientele.
Read more of the interview with Predrag at MysticMag here
Interested in learning more about these healing modalities, schedule a free 20 minute consultation with one experienced counsellors.
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