ABOUT ME

Shailyn Waites

Registered Social Worker & Clinical Therapist
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ABOUT MERegistered Social Worker

  • WHO AM I?
  • MY APPROACH
  • EDUCATION/TRAINING
  • PRACTICE

Hello! I’m Shailyn Waites, a registered social worker and clinical therapist with a passion for guiding individuals on their journey towards healing and growth.

Beyond my professional identity, I wear many hats in life – I’m a sister, daughter, friend, and proud former university athlete in hockey. I’m also a devoted wife and (dog) mom to our goldendoodle, Finnegan. My story started on a family farm growing crops, and for the past five years I have settled in the beautiful mountains in British Columbia Canada with my husband.

Outside of the therapy room, you’ll often find me immersing myself in various activities that bring me joy and balance. Whether it’s hiking through the mountains, camping under the stars, or hitting the trails for a run, I thrive in nature.

When I’m not pursuing physical activities, I enjoy spending quality time with my dog Finn, connecting with friends and family, and diving into books, particularly fantasy and psychological thrillers. And yes, I’ll admit to indulging in a guilty pleasure of reality TV from time to time. I find solace in activities like hot yoga, tennis, or simply unwinding in a soothing bubble bath.

Welcome to The Solace Flow and if you have any questions please feel free to email me.

In therapy, my focus is on creating a welcoming and supportive space where you feel truly heard and valued. Your journey is unique, and I’m here to honour that by centering our sessions around your strengths and individual experiences.

I prioritize understanding who you are and use the strengths you have as we explore your life’s journey. Whether we’re delving into your thoughts, emotions, or physical sensations, I draw from a variety of techniques tailored specifically to you.

My approach is informed by evidence-based practices, blending elements from various therapeutic modalities such as EMDR, EFT, CBT, somatic techniques, neuroscience, and mindfulness.

Above all, I recognize that you are the expert of your own story. It’s a genuine privilege for me to accompany you on your path toward mental health and well-being. Together, we’ll navigate the challenges and celebrate the victories, every step of the way.

I received a double major Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Thanatology (the study of death, dying, grief, and loss) from Western University while simultaneously playing on the women’s varsity hockey team.

After finishing my Bachelor’s degree I moved across Canada to complete my Masters of Clinical Social Work at the University of British Columbia, and became a Registered Social Worker with the British Columbia College of Social Workers.

Professional Development Trainings Completed:

  • EMDRIA-Approved EMDR Basic Training
  • Emotionally-Focused Therapy: Attachment Science into Practice
  • San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Course
  • NVCI Certificate
  • Cognitive Processing Therapy

Over the past seven years I have had the privilege of working alongside children, adolescents (including their caregivers), teens, and adults.

I have provided support to those struggling with:

  • MANY athletes in sport and transitioning out of sport
  • Complex trauma
  • PTSD
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Grief and loss
  • Perfectionism
  • OCD and Phobias
  • Low self-esteem
  • Burnout
  • Body dysmorphia
  • Disordered eating, and eating disorders.
  • And more!

Throughout my career, I’ve gained diverse experience in various settings aimed at supporting individuals through their unique challenges. This includes working in inpatient substance-use intensive treatment centers for adults and youth, providing assistance in detox centers, offering crisis support on phone hotlines, and delivering one-on-one sessions and family counseling in non-profit organizations. Additionally, I’ve been an integral part of interdisciplinary teams at a local clinic, providing counselling support for nearly three years.

Moreover, I’ve co-facilitated groups such as Survivors of Suicide Loss and Eating Disorder groups for both youth and parents.

Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.
- Brene Brown
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HOLISTIC PERSPECTIVEMy Approach

The biopsychosocial-spiritual model focuses on how different aspects of our lives influence our overall well-being.

The biological part focuses on our physical health, such as how our bodies function, and the impact of genetics and hormones. I firmly believe in the role of movement for health and processing emotions.

The psychological aspect explores our personalities, coping skills, thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, including how we perceive and respond to the world around us.

The social aspect considers the influence of our relationships, family, friends, and the community we live in.

The spiritual aspect explores the personal connection an individual has with something greater than themselves, which extends beyond religious beliefs and practices. It focuses on an individual’s beliefs and values.

Understanding the biopsychosocial model is important because it recognizes that all these different parts are interconnected and can affect each other.

Social
Physical
Cognitive
Spiritual
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Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if we’re a good fit.
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