Seeking Safety
In cooperation with Allison at Present Mind Wellness, Schaefer Counselling Services is offering a 25-week group therapy program called Seeking Safety.
This program provides a supportive space for adults who are working through trauma and challenges with coping, including addiction.
Through weekly sessions, participants will learn practical coping skills, grounding techniques, and strategies for building resilience. The group is designed to foster connection, understanding, and empowerment, helping participants take positive steps toward healing in a safe and collaborative environment.
Please note: This program is intended for adults who are not experiencing current suicidal thoughts or active substance use, and it does not replace individual therapy.
If you are seeking support want to strengthen your coping skills, Seeking Safety offers a structured, evidence-based approach to help you navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and care.
Group therapy fees may be eligible for coverage under certain insurance plans, and a limited number of no-cost spaces are available.
Only 10 spots available. Book your brief pre-group intake conversation with Annika or Allison today.
Public Speaking on Trauma Awareness and Resilience
As a Counselling Therapist, I am passionate about equipping communities with the knowledge and tools needed to respond to trauma with compassion, confidence, and care. My public speaking and workshop offerings are grounded in current trauma research, years of clinical experience, and a deep respect for those who offer support to others—including support group leaders, helping professionals, and community organizations.
In March 2025, I had the privilege of facilitating my most recent workshop on Trauma-Informed Care, specifically designed for support group leaders in collaboration with a community organization in St. Albert. Together, we explored the foundations of trauma—its impact on the brain and nervous system, the ways it can emerge in group dynamics, and how to cultivate trauma-informed spaces that foster trust, support healing, and honour each person’s sense of safety. The workshop also offered practical guidance for supporting trauma survivors in peer-led settings, with an emphasis on the importance of self-awareness and self-care for those in helping roles.
My upcoming workshop sessions with the same organization in September 2025 will expand on this work, focusing on compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma, burnout, and sustainable self-care. We will begin by defining vicarious trauma and related concepts, building a shared understanding of how regularly supporting others can affect one’s own wellbeing. From there, the workshop will offer practical tools for those who hold space for others and are seeking meaningful, lasting ways to care for themselves while continuing their impactful work.
If you are looking for a speaker or facilitator who brings together clinical expertise, warmth, and practical tools in both informative presentations and interactive workshops on trauma, compassionate care, and resilience, I would be honoured to connect. Together, I would love to explore how I can support your group or organization and tailor the content specifically to your needs. I am currently booking speaking engagements for fall and winter 2025.
