Garuda Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
There are no silly questions!
Please contact us or jump into our chat box if you are not finding the information you need.
What happens if I miss a group?
We ask that you respect your fellow participants and commit to the length of your program as sharing and connection deepen over time. If you are absent from two or more sessions, you may be unable to continue your group. There are no refunds on groups that are in progress. Exceptions do apply.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
A referral is not required for Registered Clinical Counselling and meditation services we provide individually and in a group setting.
How do I know if I am appropriate to participate?
Registering your interest does not guarantee participation but initiates the intake process. Applicants with acute/severe mental health symptoms (e.g., psychosis, suicidality, active flashbacks etc), history of violent behaviours, personality disorders (e.g., BPD) or other issues that would impair their participation or disrupt others in regular group activities are not appropriate referrals or participants. In these cases we would recommend a higher or more specialized level of care, which can often be found at your local health authority (e.g., Vancouver Coastal Health, Island Health). HealthLink BC, Wellness Together Canada and BC Mental Health & Substance Use Services are all great free resources to check out as well. We welcome you to contact us with any additional questions.
What benefits can I expect?
The sky's the limit! ...no seriously, we have seen it all - from feeling life is bearable again to full blown transformation. A good measure of what to expect is usually based on what you put it in. Often participants report they have begun to live more authentically, having found new meaning and purpose. Sometimes the greatest benefit is facing and overcoming fears that seemed insurmountable when faced alone. Keep in mind Socrates dictum "The unexamined life may not be worth living..."
Are there any risks to be aware of?
Risks of engaging in group process include strong emotions, vulnerability and/or fatigue during or after a group and, if this is an unfamiliar feeling, it may be initially difficult. Finally, group process can provoke changes in how you relate to other people in your life and although this is generally viewed as a positive shift, sometimes this can provoke resistance from others.
What modalities are for me?
We use a variety of modalities, so it's best to check with us if you are looking for a specific modality or therapeutic orientation. What research has shown is that in many cases it's not the specific modality which makes the biggest difference but the therapeutic bond itself that is most critical.
Testimonials
From Our Participants
Evan
"Straight up, if you're thinking about taking a risk with a therapist and want to grow as an individual take it with Dr. John. He has a lot of Experience, Insight, and Guidance. He helped me find my "flex", and I hope he helps you find yours. :D"
Luke
"Dr. John has been amazing with helping me with my mental health. I highly recommend him to anyone that just needs someone to talk to."
Hans
"The authenticity with which Dr. John and his team are able to offer a broad range of services with the working with the psyche, body and the spirit both individually and in group is impressive. I participated in a community of progress program and a Men's Meditation Academy at a vulnerable time in my life. The program, the therapy and the accountability helped me to overcome mid life challenges and helped to set me on a path of recovery and growth."
Graham
"Dr. John provides a great service and the Community of Progress that he runs has created great opportunities for me to grow and learn as a person."
Mitch
"The Garuda Centre is a special place. Dr. John and Ren are both incredible people, the world would be a better place if we had more like them. I have done both individual & group therapy sessions which were both helpful. Dr. John has a way of meeting people where they are at yet also knowing when and how to push. I've recommended them to many men in my life and will continue to do so."
Devon
"I am beyond grateful for the work I have done with Dr. John. He is straight with me and has always met me where I am at. He is relatable and has been just the mirror I have needed to support me through my journey as a Father, Husband and man."
August
"I love working with Dr. John!! He’s really helped me through it all sobriety, losing my kids, my relationship with both friends and family and as well as my day to day relationship with my wife, I’ve been through a lot of crap and when I walked in I was nervous to open up because of my “Man-Pride” but eventually I opened up and felt so much better."
Vartan
"I can’t recommend this place enough. The group sessions and the meditation academy are on point. Very worthwhile"
INDIVIDUAL | COUPLES THERAPY
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLING
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