THE POWER OF GROUPS®
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.
INDIVIDUAL | COUPLES THERAPY
REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLING
SEE MORE ON SOCIAL MEDIA!
1
Choose your Group
This is the fun part! Pick a Transformational group that speaks to you and aligns with your needs.
2
Apply online
This helps us verify your interest and the basic information necessary to begin the enrolment process.
3
consultation
We will contact you to set up a free quick consultation with the group facilitator to make sure it’s a good fit.