Andrea Weekes
Registered Social Worker, Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Based Therapist
True Nature Counselling is located on unceded and occupied Indigenous territories, specifically the land of the Lekwungen people—the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations. At True Nature Counselling we seek to respect, honour and continually grow our own understandings of Indigenous rights and history, and to fulfill our responsibilities as settlers. We express gratitude to the Lekwungen People, for allowing us to live, work and play on their lands.
Hello, and welcome! My name is Andrea and my pronouns are she/her. I am a trauma informed therapist and mindfulness meditation teacher.
I have over 15 years of experience specializing in supporting people overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, stress and burnout. I am particularly passionate about using mindfulness, and self compassion practices to support an awareness of your inner parts while supporting you throughout your healing journey.
In our work together, you will learn how to develop a kinder relationship with yourself, as well as learn skills and tools to set boundaries with people, live your heart centred values and learn how to get in touch with your own innate aliveness. A part of our work might also include bringing to light the deeply engrained structural systems of power that operate within our culture. Together we can recognize the ways in which these oppressions have held you back from living into your true nature, and find creative ways to radically shift your life.
If you're curious about how my approach can support you on this path, I invite you to get in touch with me to learn more.
My Approach
Who I Work With
You might be feeling a calling to grow and create change in your life.
You might be looking for a safe space to process trauma, learn skills to regulate your nervous system and process unexpressed emotion.
You might be a perfectionist or a people pleaser who needs help setting boundaries.
You might be ready to address your anxiety/OCD.
You’re interested in developing a friendlier relationship with yourself.
You are looking for compassionate, non-judgemental support.
Counselling for Anxiety and OCD
Everyone feels anxious at times, but overwhelming amounts of anxiety can get in the way of daily life. Anxiety can be experienced as general ongoing worry, intrusive and persistent thoughts, or even engaging in repetitive behaviours to seek safety. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) which is the gold standard treatment for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). I can help you become aware of thoughts/beliefs, open up to new ways of coping and support you in creating a new relationship with your anxiety. Together, we can help you do hard things, face your fears, and ultimately live a life with more ease, and freedom.
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
MBSR is an 8-week evidence-based program providing a comprehensive introduction to mindfulness meditation and hatha yoga. The MBSR program has been shown to support in decreasing chronic pain, anxiety and low mood, and increasing a sense of ease and well-being, as well as an improved ability to cope with challenges related to stress. Through guided meditation, mindful movement, personal and group reflection, and daily home practice, participants have the opportunity to fully embrace the practice of mindfulness.
Next MBSR Program: October 20th - December 8th, 2024
Guided Meditations
I’ve created a selection of three guided meditation sessions including a 10 Minute Body Scan, a 7 Minute Pause, and a 10 Minute Mindfulness of Breathing exercise.
These meditations were carefully curated and are offered freely. If you are interested in hearing more of my meditations check out my page on Insight Timer
“The truth about awareness is, believe it or not, it’s always there. You always have access to the openness and warmth of your truest nature.”
— Pema Chodron