Watercolor leaf texture and Vanya Laporte Counselling logo representing embodied healing and nervous system regulation in Victoria, BC.
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    Reflections on Healing: Trauma-Informed & Nature-Based Therapy

    Reflections on nature-based therapy, somatic healing, and finding your way back to yourself.

    Vanya Laporte with dog in grassy field, nature-based therapy in Victoria, BC.
    ArticleJune 26, 2026

    How Animals Help Us Know Ourselves Better

    There is something quietly profound about being in relationship with animals. Whether it is a dog who senses our sadness before we say a word, a cat who curls beside us when we are overwhelmed, or even watching birds move through the trees on a difficult day — animals often invite us into a different kind of presence.

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    Comfortable therapy room with a sofa, armchair, and window overlooking nature in Victoria, BC.
    ArticleJune 19, 2026

    Mindfulness-based Counselling with Vanya Laporte

    Mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or feel overwhelmed by what’s going on around us.

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    Nature trail winding through lush forest, reflective walking spot near Victoria, BC.
    ArticleJune 12, 2026

    A Guide to the Best Trails for Reflection and Healing Near Victoria, BC

    There is a kind of medicine you can only find on foot. Here is a gentle guide to some of the most reflective walking spots near Victoria.

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    Sunlit forest path and stream illustrating slowing down in therapy and nature-based healing in Victoria, BC
    ArticleJune 5, 2026

    What Slowing Down in Therapy Actually Means

    “Slowing down” is a phrase often used in therapy spaces, but many people are not entirely sure what it actually means.

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    Tranquil lake reflecting misty mountains, nature-based therapy setting in Victoria, BC.
    ArticleMay 29, 2026

    What is Somatic Counselling?

    The word somatic has become a buzz word as scientific studies confirm that somatic therapies are highly effective in treating symptoms and conditions...

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    Dense forest path and tall trees symbolizing inner exploration and healing.
    ArticleMay 15, 2026

    Meet Your Inner Protector: A Gentle Introduction to Internal Family Systems

    If you have ever wondered why you cannot just decide to feel different, Internal Family Systems therapy may offer a new doorway.

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    Two people sitting and talking outdoors by a lake during counselling session.
    ArticleMay 8, 2026

    What Actually Happens in an Outdoor Counselling Session at Elk/Beaver Lake

    A gentle walk through what to expect when we take therapy out of the office and onto the trails.

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    Nature-based therapy setting, coastal landscape and rocky shoreline in Victoria, BC.
    ArticleMay 1, 2026

    Grief and Loss

    Grief is often a neglected topic and a misunderstood emotion in our society. It has become part of our life that gets swept under the rug...

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    Trauma-Informed Therapy Approaches

    Trauma-informed therapy recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and understands potential paths for recovery. It emphasizes physical, psychological, and emotional safety for both the service provider and the survivor, and creates explicit opportunities for clients to rebuild a sense of control and empowerment.

    This approach is foundational to Vanya Laporte's practice, ensuring that all therapeutic interactions are sensitive to the complexities of trauma. It involves a deep understanding of how trauma affects the brain and body, and how to create a safe space for healing without re-traumatizing the client.

    The Role of Nature in Healing Trauma

    Integrating nature into therapeutic practices offers a unique pathway to healing, especially for those who have experienced trauma. The natural environment can provide a sense of grounding, peace, and interconnectedness, which are often disrupted by traumatic experiences.

    Spending time in natural settings, such as forests or near water, can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. This gentle immersion in nature can help individuals process difficult emotions and memories in a supportive and non-threatening way, fostering resilience and a renewed sense of self.