Join MysticMag and discover the inspiring genesis of Solidarity Therapy as Jessie Dhaliwal and Rim Yassine share their mission to offer trauma-informed care, specifically designed for those navigating mental health distress and systemic oppression. From the transformative power of art therapy to the Internal Family Systems model and the nuanced approach to grief therapy, Solidarity Therapy embraces a diverse range of modalities, fostering holistic healing for a unique and intersectional clientele.
What is the story behind Solidarity Therapy and how was it founded?
Jessie Dhaliwal: We founded Solidarity Therapy to provide trauma-informed care for those struggling with mental health distress. Before founding Solidarity Therapy, I worked in several mental health clinics and noticed a need for anti-oppressive trauma-focused support. We recognize that oppression is traumatic and aim to support folks who have experienced systemic oppression and trauma.
Solidarity Therapy upholds anti-oppressive values by continuing our education to learn and unlearn through community educators and consultants. Our counsellors identify with the BIPOC and Queer communities and are compassionate to client intersections of identity. We strive to learn about your unique experiences and tailor our treatment to your needs.
How does art therapy work?
Jessie Dhaliwal: Art therapy is an innovative form of psychotherapy that merges the creative process with therapeutic techniques to encourage self-discovery and awareness. Employing imagery, color, and shape, art therapy allows for the expression of thoughts and emotions that might otherwise be challenging to articulate. Through this creative therapeutic approach, alongside a licensed art therapist, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their emotions. This safe and inclusive space eliminates judgment, allowing your thoughts, feelings, and emotions to manifest freely on canvas. Your therapist won’t search for hidden meanings or metaphors within your artwork. Instead, it’s a unique way to facilitate your healing journey.
Can you share a few details about the Internal Family Systems model?
Rim Yassine: Internal family systems (IFS) or “parts work” is a holistic and evidence-based approach developed in the 1980s by Dr. Richard Schwartz. The IFS model views people as having many different parts within them that assume unique roles and form inner relationships, creating an internal system of their own. When we describe the IFS model, we acknowledge its 3 fundamental components: the exiles, the protector parts, and the Self.
Exiles are usually younger vulnerable parts who have experienced trauma or deep emotional pain. Due to the heavy pain, they essentially lose touch with their original qualities and become filtered by limiting narratives and distorted self-image. An example of an exile could be a young part that believes it is simply not lovable or worthy of love.
Protector parts are those that function in an extreme way to protect the exile parts from experiencing pain again. Although their actions can have harmful impacts on the client, their intentions are always positive. An example of a protector part could be a critical part that uses self-hating language as a means to self-motivate.
The Self is the person that we are at our core; it is the “I” that observes everything. This is the aspect of the individual that recognizes its thoughts and emotions and separates from them. When clients are embodying Self-energy they usually exhibit characteristics which are called the 8 Cs: calmness, curiosity, clarity, compassion, confidence, creativity, courage, and connectedness.
Rather than being solution-focused, IFS relies on Self-leadership to bring inner cohesion and healing to the inner parts that hold various emotional experiences, narratives, and beliefs.
How can grief therapy help a person through the difficult times of grief?
Rim Yassine: The grieving journey is a very unique and subjective one, each person grieves uniquely, and working with a professional who specializes in grief and loss can assist the client in honouring and also recognizing the uniqueness of their grief. Society in general likes to set deadlines for everything in life and grief is not exempted from this, more often than not, clients come to therapy holding on to so much shame, expectations, and self-hatred for still grieving a loss.
A trained professional not only creates a safe space for clients to speak about their raw and vulnerable experiences without judgment but also assists clients in recognizing, naming, and sitting with difficult feelings and emotions. The moment one can accept that grief is a lifelong companion and we do not have to “get rid of it”, a certain openness is naturally created, where the flow of emotions naturally occurs and the ability to create meaning out of loss starts to become possible. The latter will also assist clients in being able to re-create their identities post-loss and move forward in life with intention and internal harmony.
What other modalities do you use at Solidarity Therapy?
Jessie Dhaliwal: Solidarity Therapy proudly offers a diverse range of therapeutic modalities tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. Our counsellors meet with you and then create a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) empowers individuals to identify and modify negative thought patterns, fostering positive behavioral changes. Couples therapy provides a supportive space for partners to navigate challenges, enhance communication, and strengthen their relationship.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) equips individuals with skills to manage intense emotions and improve interpersonal effectiveness. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) aids in processing and healing from traumatic experiences. Group therapy fosters a sense of community and shared understanding, promoting collective healing.
LENS Neurofeedback utilizes advanced technology to regulate brain activity and enhance overall well-being. Narrative Therapy explores and reconstructs personal stories, empowering individuals to redefine their narratives. Somatic Therapy focuses on the mind-body connection, addressing trauma stored in the body. Lastly, Trauma Therapy provides specialized support for those navigating the complex aftermath of traumatic experiences. Our dedicated clinicians, rooted in anti-oppression and intersectionality, incorporate these modalities into their practice to facilitate holistic healing for our diverse clientele.
To learn more about Solidarity Therapy, you can visit their website at www.solidaritytherapy.ca
