Connection Happens Here

Photo of my Heddle Road therapy space.

This isn't just another place to talk.

If you're here, you're probably looking for more than just someone to talk to. Your existing strategies aren't working and you want to find a way to do things differently. You're ready to take action, to move the needle, to see a tangible "return on investment" for your work.

I get it. Because I've worked with people who've reached that same edge. And helped them cross it.

I'm a family therapist who treats people like people. I treat the systems they're stuck in, both inside themselves and in their larger context. Because our challenges don't come from nowhere. They are the result of ways of thinking, being, and doing that have been learned over the course of our lives.

This is the root of lasting change. Not just talking about our problems, but addressing the underlying causes of why they keep happening.

I help people:

Transform inter-generational difficulties in the family system into relationships built on mutual respect and support.

Find a healthy balance between looking after themselves and caring for others.

Create joyful, connected bonds with their children that inspire responsibility and respect.

Address the underlying roots of behaviour to create change that sticks.

And build a grounded internal foundation of self-awareness that can weather the inevitable storms of parenting and being in relationship.

My Mission

Help caring families struggle less and laugh more

My Vision

A world of resourced families enjoying easeful relationship.

I Value

Freedom of expression through safety in connection.

My Approach

A developmental, trauma-informed perspective working with the whole family system.

"The significant problems we have cannot be solved at the same level of thinking which created them."

- Albert Einstein

If you are looking for 1-1 support, let's start with a conversation. Head to my calendar page to find a time that works for you. If nothing fits, reach out and we'll figure something out.

I work in person in the West Kootenays and virtually everywhere.

If you work with families as a service provider or educator I want to hear from you! I'm building a collaborative resource network and would love for you to be a part of it. #100caringfamilies

Credentials

Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC) supervised by Wendy Byrne - Kutenai Family Therapy

Opening To Grace Relational-Somatic Therapy with Mariah Moser.

Counseling Skills Diploma (Orca Institute) supervised by Diane Auld.

Child and Youth Care Practitioner (CYC) (Indigenous Stream)

Early Childhood Educator (ECCE)

Certified Waldorf Teacher

Lifetime of work with children and families through wholistic, experiential, and inclusive learning models.

Recently accepted to a Masters of Social Work researching environmental factors of ADHD.

Build Thriving Relationships

Initiate a rich journey of self discovery, grow clear-loving boundaries, and find your authentic voice.

Grow Healthy Families

Discover and develop relational skills to help your family thrive through clarity, connection, and care.

"The quality of life for any individual is the quality of the relationship they have with themselves, their partner, and their family members."

Impact

FAQS

What makes your approach unique?

This is a bottom-up approach to fostering health in relationships at every level. Instead of behaviour management, we focus on Secure Attachment and Nervous System Awareness as the foundation for growth.

Our multi-disciplinary approach includes Evidence-Based strategies from Waldorf Pedagogy, Developmental Psychology, and Somatic Therapy that transform relationships from the ground up.

Who do you work with?

We Work with Families and Individuals who want to understand more about themselves in relationship with their loved ones, whether that be their parents, their children, or other important people in their lives. This includes Parents, Caregivers, Educators, and Helping Professionals navigating the challenges of ADHD, Emotional Regulation, and Family Dynamics.

What’s the first step?

Start by booking a free, no-pressure call. It’s a chance to share a bit about your situation, ask questions, and see if this support feels like the right fit.

About Securely Thriving

I founded Securely Thriving out of lived experience and professional conviction that meaningful support must go deeper than behaviour, and begin with connection, safety, and relationship.

As a parent, educator, and somatic therapist, I understand the incredible importance of safety through secure attachment at every stage of the developmental journey. This isn’t about perfection, it’s about creating the conditions where adults and children feel safe enough to grow.

Questions? Use the booking link below to find a time to meet, or e-mail [email protected].

Securely Thriving

Nelson, BC V1L 4H6

Email: [email protected]

Serving the Kootenays and Beyond | Virtual Sessions Available Internationally

Ariel-Paul Saunders

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