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Through a clear wet umbrella you can see a beautiful husky and their human.

It's all about safety and connection.

Our Approach

All Ripple Effect counselling is based in 3 primary approaches: Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Relational Care. These approaches are enhanced with additional therapeutic elements that are customized to each individual’s needs.
To learn more about how this approach might work for your child, contact us today.

Icon of a line art brain image representing Polyvagal Theory and its role in mental health and regulation

Polyvagal Theory

Polyvagal Theory offers new perspectives and insight into the functioning of our brain and nervous system, and the effects on our mental and physical health. Developing our own abilities to regulate our nervous system opens the door to feeling safe and connected, and optimizing our capacities.

Icon of a line art circuit board representing the concept of Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

IFS encourages us to recognize all the different parts of ourselves and their essential function and purpose. It is when we work toward integration of all our parts that we can experience our full, true Self.

Icon of line art hands holding a cube, symbolizing the concept of Relational Care in therapy and support

Relational Care

The subtle nuances and dynamics of interpersonal interactions and relationships are critical to our sense of self and our perceptions of the world. By creating a therapeutic relationship that is based in de-pathologizing, humanist, trauma-informed, and anti-oppressive principles, the counsellor and child co-create a mutually beneficial space in which new perspectives and personal growth can be explored.

Icon of line art showing a muscular arm with a heart above the bicep, symbolizing Strength-Based approaches in therapy and support

Strength Based

Areas of success, coping skills, and resilience are emphasized and developed. All behaviour is a person’s attempt to achieve self regulation. Understanding what purposes it is serving allows for a “no shame, no blame” approach to changing behaviour.

Icon of line art showing a plant growing in soil, representing the concept of Mindfulness and personal growth

Mindfulness

Fostering in-the-moment self-awareness helps reduce stress and promote emotional regulation. Mindfulness increases awareness of your internal system such that you can be more conscious of parts of self that are being activated. Being able to name it, means that you can tame it!

Icon of a head with leaves inside, symbolizing the principles of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and mental well-being

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

Negative, self-defeating thought patterns are examined and replaced with more empowering thought patterns. We have ancient systems that focus on the negatives in life as way to protect us. Learning how to override this ancient negativity bias can create a more peaceful life.

Icon of a tech-inspired web of lines and dots, representing the interconnectedness and importance of Family Involvement in support systems

Family Involvement

Family members are included as key supports in the change process. Program staff members work in collaboration with parents/guardians to develop individualized strategies to assist the children/youth.

While Ripple Effect Services is based in Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Relational Care,

our specialist team also integrates other modalities such as yoga, dance, movement, art therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Theory (DBT). We work in collaboration with parents/guardians to develop individualized strategies to assist children/youth.

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