Jessamyn Stewart

Today's world is loud with self-help and therapeutic insights; however, being able to trust your own inner guidance is key to long-term health and resilience. 

My approach is humanistic, attachment-based, and draws from emotionally-focused therapy, parts work, and depth psychology. Whether you’re untangling inherited beliefs or seeking something more soulful and authentic, I work to facilitate deeper explorations of the 'self ' in relation to the world and how we create meaning out of the struggles in our lives.
 
I see clients from all walks of life. However, some areas of focus in my practice include: 

• Shame
• Non monogamy
• Grief
• Men’s health
• Queerness
• Psychedelic integration
• Sex Work 

Queer Identities

It's an honor and privilege to work for the LGBTQIA2S+ community.  I understand the unique challenges queer folks face in the current socio-political climate, as well as the long term, systemic hurdles in navigating life, relationships and healthcare systems as a queer person. I aim to support queer clients in all areas of their life, including injustice, HRT and gender transitions, as well as everyday human challenges.

Grief

Grief can be debilitating. Whether you have lost a loved one or a pet to death, ended a relationship or are leaving behind a chapter of your life, loss can be a hard thing to navigate. I engage clients who are grieving with care and supportive practices such as self-compassion, ritual and ceremony planning and skills to work through grief effectively.
Some literature that has informed my work with grief includes: Soulcraft – Bill Plotkin & The Wild Edge of Sorrow – Francis Welling

Men’ s Health

Men face unique challenges with mental health. Cultural expectations often clash with real, lived experiences, which make it harder for men to ask for support. Common issues I explore with men are shame, sexual shame, depression, accountability, addiction and emotional processing.

Couples Therapy

Sometimes we encounter challenges or sticking points in our relationship that need more support. I work with couples looking to move beyond their patterns to build strong and lasting love and connection. Informed by my training with The Gottman Institute and my knowledge of attachment, I take a direct, hands-on approach to couples therapy. 
 
Specialized Training:

• The Gottman Method Couples Therapy – Level 1
• Somatic Parts Work Certificate
• 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training
   

Other Interests:

In my free time I find solace in the coastal forests and rocky shores surrounding Vancouver Island. I love a good dinner party with dear friends, singing loudly in my car on the way to work, and dancing to lively music. 

I am honored to work, play and live on the unceded territories of the WSÁNEĆ (Saanich), lək̓ʷəŋən (Songhees), Wyomilth (Esquimalt) people I aim to work in ways that reflect my learnings of the unique history on these lands; with cultural humility and curiosity for all that I do not yet know.