It's surprising—the relief of being in a room full of people who actually get it.

 

Counselling doesn't always have to happen one-on-one. Group counselling offers a chance to work through something alongside other people who are experiencing similar things. There can be something really helpful about hearing someone else say, “I feel that too,” or realizing that a struggle you thought was just yours is actually something many people understand.

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Groups at The Wholehearted are small and counsellor-led. Depending on the group, there may be a mix of conversation, teaching, reflection, and practical tools. Some groups are more focused on learning and building skills, while others leave more room for discussion and connection.

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You don't have to be the most talkative person in the room, and you won't be pressured to share more than you're comfortable with. The goal is to have a space where you can participate at your own pace while still getting something from being part of the group.

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Why consider group counselling?

 

Individual counselling can be a great fit, but it isn't the only way to get meaningful support. Groups can offer some things that are difficult to find in individual counselling.

 

You get to learn from other people's experiences. Sometimes another person's story gives you a new way of looking at your own. You can feel less alone. Anxiety, depression, parenting struggles, burnout, and self-doubt can be isolating. Being around people who understand can make a real difference. You get to practise being yourself with other people. For groups focused on connection or relationships, the group can be a place to notice your usual patterns, try something different, and build confidence in how you relate to others.

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Groups can also be more affordable. Because the cost is shared among participants, group counselling is less expensive than individual sessions.

Research has also found group therapy to be helpful for many different concerns, and for some people it can be just as effective as individual therapy.

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What groups are offered?

 

Group topics will change based on interest and upcoming programming. Some of the groups we are exploring include:

• Self-care — learning to notice your own needs and make space for them without feeling guilty

• Understanding anxiety and depression — looking at where these patterns come from and learning practical ways to respond to them

• Parenting support — a place to talk honestly about the challenges of parenting and learn from others who are in it too

• Authentic community — small groups focused on connection, belonging, and what it looks like to have more genuine relationships

 

Groups may run as a one-time workshop or as a short series, depending on the topic.

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Interested in joining a group?

 

Contact us to find out about upcoming group counselling opportunities in Maple Ridge and surrounding areas.

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*Most group sessions are offered online. If you are in or nearby Maple Ridge and have a context that would better suite in-person groups, please reach out and we can navigate if this would be feasible. 

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