Wholistic Healing Approach
Our Practice Approach
Wholism in psychotherapy is an integrative approach that considers all aspects of a person’s life. Wholism takes into account biological, psychological, emotional and social factors as well as an individual’s culture, values and spiritual belief systems. It
looks at different aspects of something such as physical systems, environment, social dynamics and economic parameters to create solutions which are sustainable in nature. Wholism considers the whole person rather than simply an isolated problem. This
enables treatment sessions to be tailored to each individual in order to create an effective plan. Wholism in psychotherapy allows the therapist and client to work together as equal partners while exploring their unique strengths,
experiences, capabilities, and goals towards addressing challenges. In turn, this leads to a better overall understanding of the patient leading to more meaningful therapeutic outcomes.
What is the difference between holism & Wholism?
Holism and Wholism may sound similar but they have distinct differences. Holism is a philosophical belief that emphasizes the importance of learning about the whole of something, be it a system, an animal, or even a person. It believes that in order to understand any situation, we should study its entirety rather than individual elements. The primary difference between the two concepts is that holism focuses on one subject while Wholism applies ideas from multiple disciplines to solve problems in multiple relevant contexts with solutions.
mind
The mind is experienced through THINKING both consciously and unconsciously. It is the what and why questions in our lives. A lot of our daily lives are focused on thoughts. Mindfulness and digging into our deep unconscious (i.e., by digging in the sand, quite literally), will both be explored. Session is a place to remember, think, and seek future thought.
emotion
Emotions are experienced through FEELING, recognizing what our heart is saying, and giving space for that feelings to be felt. It also is the social aspect of our lives and how we are part of the interconnected world, our relationships, kinship systems, and our experiences within environments. Session is a place to explore what you felt, feel what you feel, and look forward to feeling differently.
body
The body is experienced through DOING. It is the collective work that needs to be done. Healing within the body, through experiential activities. Much of our physical symptoms present and are held in our bodies which are manifestations from other parts of our body. This is seen in people who have experienced trauma (fight/flight/freeze) and stress (head ache, nervous tummy, high blood pressure), for example.
spirit
Spirit is experienced through SEEING, giving honour to that fire within us, connecting to our authentic selves, personality, and what makes us who we are as unique individuals. Recognizing the mystery of self as the richest source of information. It is acknowledging our values, worldviews, and ethics. Session is a place to be and see who you are, who you are meant to be, and recall who you once were.
Indigenous Specialization
Wholism and the medicine wheel as tools for practice. A famework that connects physical, emotional, spiritual and mental aspects of health. It provides a Wholistic approach to well-being from an Indigenous perspective that includes
respect for nature, self-care practices, and connection with the Creator through ceremony and ritual. While each of these components are important, it’s the integration of all four into a balanced state of being that defines Indigenous
wholism. When we focus on balance, we can strive to lead healthy lives in harmony with ourselves and our environment. Ultimately, by combining mind, body, spirit and emotion in accordance with traditional teachings, we are able to
maintain balance both within ourselves and with our surroundings.
Owner and Founder of Wholistic Counselling Services, Alexandra Dermansky, has a masters in specialized Indigenous Social Work at Wilfrid Laurier University. The unique program provides an opportunity to cultivate a deepened understanding
of Indigenous history and cultures and the impacts of colonization. The Specialization in Indigenous Social Work is designed to increase knowledge and practical skills related to working with Indigenous communities. With a mix of
critical theory, research, praxis, and policy integration, this program offers a unique specialization to gain tools necessary for making equitable change in reconciliation. Wholistic Counselling Services offers support to Indigenous
and non-Indigenous clients with a practice approach in Wholism.
We are here to help
Begin your road to wholism with Wholistic Counselling Services.
Therapy that doesn’t just focus on the mind
