UPCOMING WORKSHOPS
Ongoing
Mental health first aid - Standard
A certification course through the mental health commission of Canada.
Offering in-person certification courses in qathet or virtually from anywhere. Please inquire about private booking or the next public session offering.
Course Objective
While we often know a lot about physical illness, there tends to be less knowledge about mental health or substance use problems. This lack of understanding leads to fear and negative attitudes toward individuals living with mental health or substance use problems. It prevents people from seeking help and providing appropriate support to people around them.
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is offered to someone with an emerging mental health or substance use problem or in crisis, until appropriate treatment is found or the situation resolves.
Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Join us for a deep dive into Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) to cultivate inner peace and mental clarity!
Date and time: Friday, Sept 26 2025
Cost: $550
For more info about the group, visit https://vkwellness.ca/group-therapy-2/
Adult ADHD Support and Education Group
ADHD is a unique type of neurodiverse experience that can make everyday life difficult and unmanageable. There are many different approaches to treatment and lifestyle that can make a huge difference for you if you have ADHD. Come and join Kara, RCC and Sabina, ADHD Coach, on a 10-week journey to a better ADHD experience. We will be learning about topics such as:
- Current research about ADHD and the brain and nervous system
- How to improve executive function and dopamine function
- Self acceptance and self-love
- Dealing with task avoidance
- Shame experience in ADHD
- Self- regulation strategies
- and more......
Date: Thursday mornings starting October 2
Time: 10:30-11:30 AM
Where: Online group
Cost: $250 - this group is likely covered by extended benefits
JANUARY
Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT): The purpose of this 8 week group is to introduce the practice of mindfulness and to encourage the creative exploration of these concepts individually and collectively. Mindfulness can have a powerful impact on how people think, feel, act, relate, perform and collaborate at work. Participants will participate in weekly mindfulness practices during therapy and are encouraged to explore in a home practice. The principles of Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) will be used to guide the practice, review supports used in the development of being present, and focus on what is happening moment to moment.
Date: Jan 4 - Feb 22, Saturday
Time: 12:00pm - 2:30pm
Cost: $550 (covered by extended benefits & FNHA)
Location: 6828 Cranberry Street, Powell River
Facilitator: Kara Fogwell, Registered Clinical Counsellor
REGISTER: email info@vkwellness.ca or
Questions?: email Kara@vkwellness.ca
FEBRUARY
Mini Mindfulness Silent Retreat: Join us on at our Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Mini Retreat. Experience guided mindfulness meditations, yoga for all levels, and a mindful art session, as you cultivate inner peace and resilience. Experience a nourishing lunch (included!), engaging in mindful eating practices. This retreat is offered on a sliding scale, or funding options like FNHA and extended benefits can cover your retreat experience.
Date: Tuesday evening - Feb 4
Time: 4pm - 8pm
Cost: $100 including a lite dinner
Location: TBD
Facilitator: Kara Fogwell, Registered Clinical Counsellor and MBCT trained facilitator
REGISTER: email info@vkwellness.ca or
Questions?: email Kara@vkwellness.ca
Neurodiverse Parenting Group: This winter, VK Wellness in hosting a new program to support parents of a child who is neurodiverse. This includes children who are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, FASD, and other brain-based differences that require different approaches to parenting and other aspects of family life. This group is a support group giving parents a chance to connect and understand their personal experiences better. Each week features a different topic that will be discussed. During the group, facilitators will learn more about the strengths & needs of the families in our community and their children who are neurodiverse, adapting the program as needed.
Week 1 – What is it like to be a parent of a neurodiverse child?
Week 2 – Emotional Regulation
Week 3 – Difficult Behaviour
Week 4 – Education and Career
Week 5 - Q&A Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Nancy Van Zyl
Date: Tuesday evenings Feb 4
Time: 6:00PM-7:30PM
Cost: $250 - May be covered by Autism Funding Unit, extended benefits, FNHA and more
Location: TBD
JANUARY
Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
When: Saturdays January, 13 – March 2
Time: 10:00 AM-12:30 PM
Location: Powell River Pilates Studio (on Glacier)
Cost: $550 for 2 hours of therapy for 8 weeks
Facilitator: Kara Fogwell, RCC, RSW, MBCT Trained Facilitator – Centre for Mindfulness Studies
MBCT is an 8 week mindfulness based group program that supports overall wellbeing by using mindfulness practices and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) strategies. It is helpful for stress and burnout, as well as clinical experiences like depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. Once you have registered, you will receive an invoice for the total cost of the program. Once you pay, your space is secured in the program. The cost of this program may be covered by your extended benefits, FNHA, ICBC, and other funding sources. We can also offer this program on a sliding scale for those who would benefit from attending, but do not have the budget for it at this time. You can also pay in increments throughout the length of the 8 weeks. Inquire with us how we can make this work for you.
Space is limited, we encourage you to register soon.
Conflict Resolution, Theory & Skills Framework
VK ENGAGE Leadership Training Serves
When: January 16, 2024
Time: 6:00-8:00PM
Where: TBD
Facilitator: Angela Voht, Registered Mediator, Corporate Collaborative Dispute Resolution Specialist
Cost: $100 or $75 for current VK ENGAGE corporate clients
Description: Get an overview of an interests-based dispute resolution model which applies a transformative lens to options for managing workplace conflict. We will touch on some key skills and pivotal elements of leadership communication, consider those most relevant for managing conflict and moving teams toward a more open and transparent approach to respectful communication and conflict management. Culminates in an overview of how this will look in a workshop for preparing managers with enduring skills to manage communication through conflict with ease.
Discover Your Wellness 2024
Yoga & Wellness Strategies for People experiencing high levels of stress, PTSD or healing from trauma
When: Tuesday’s January 23- February 27
Time: 7 PM
Where: Powell River Pilates Studio (on Glacier)
Cost: $300 may be offered on a sliding scale, likely covered by extended benefits and FNHA
Facilitator: Tricia McTaggart, RCC, JF Corbeil, Certified Yoga Teacher
Description: This 6-week small group offers individuals the opportunity to find peaceful moments during an hour of guided yoga practice. Through experiencing breathing techniques, relaxation, mindfulness practices and gentle yoga movements an awareness of what’s going on in your body is brought forward. This is a safe, non-judgemental space for rediscovering the path towards wellness and healing. Sessions will include an opportunity to understand how our daily stressors, PTSD or trauma can affect how we interpret ourselves, our environments and how we can strive for wellness.
FEBRUARY
Better Behaviour Naturally
When: Monday's, February 5th to 26th
Time: 7 pm - 8:00PM
Where: Zoom
Cost: $50
Facilitator: Ernalee Shannon is a Kinesionics Holistic Health Practitioner, ADHD Better Behaviour Coach, Author, and Speaker.
She has over 36 years’ experience helping children and families live healthier, happier, more peaceful lives.
Description: Is your child impulsive, disruptive, and needing to be entertained every 15 seconds?
Looking for natural ways to help your child sit still, listen, and focus, at home and in school?
Understand what triggers and fuels your child’s misbehavior and how inflammation and lack of specific nutrients affect the body and brain. Discover creative parenting hacks to calm your child and restore peace for you! This works for those with ADHD too!
Expect cool handouts and worksheets. Enrollment in this mini course entitles you to a FREE Better Behaviour Consult.
Mini Meditation Retreat
When: February 10
Time: 9:00AM-1:00PM
Cost: $100 - may be covered by extended medical benefits or FNHA
Deepen your present moment awareness in this mindfulness meditation mini retreat guided by Kara Fogwell, Certified MBCT Facilitator.
Building Lasting Connections: A Gottman-Inspired Couples Workshop
When: February 22, 2024
Time: 5:00-7:00 PM
Where: TBD
Cost: $100, may be offered on a sliding scale, likely covered by extended benefits and FNHA
Facilitator: Alana Rosenfeld, Registered Clinical Counsellor, Gottman Trained Couples and Family Therapist
Join us for an enriching two-hour couples workshop designed to enhance your relationship through the proven methods of the renowned Gottman Institute. This interactive session is crafted to empower couples with practical skills to strengthen communication, foster intimacy, and build a foundation for lasting connection. This workshop is suitable for couples at all stages of their relationship journey, from those looking to strengthen a strong foundation to those seeking to revitalize and reconnect.
MARCH
National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace (CMHA) Introduction
VK ENGAGE Leadership Training Series
When: March 5, 2024 2:30-4:30
Where: TBD
Cost: $100 ($75 for existing VK ENGAGE clients)
Facilitator: Kara Fogwell, RCC, RSW, & CMHA trained in Psychological Health and Safety Standards
This 2-hour training of the National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace. Participants gain insights into fostering mental well-being and safety of employees and team.
National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace (CMHA) Intro - With Kara Fogwell - Certified CMHA Psychological Health and Safety Professional
Cost $100
October 24th 6:30 - 8:30
This 2-hour training, led by Kara Fogwell, Certified CMHA Psychological Health and Safety Facilitator, provides an overview of the National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace. Participants gain insights into fostering mental well-being and safety of employees and team.
APRIL
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Mini Retreat
When: April 27, 2024 10:00-2:00
Where: TBD
Facilitator: Kara Fogwell, RCC, MBCT Trained Facilitator, JF Corbeil, Certified Yoga Teacher, Kyla Mazurak, Mindful Art Facilitator
Join us on a transformative journey at our Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Mini Retreat. Experience the power of yoga, guided mindfulness meditations, and a mindful art session as you cultivate inner peace and resilience. Indulge in a nourishing lunch, engaging in mindful eating practices. explore how funding options like FNHA and extended benefits can cover your retreat experience.
JUNE
National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace (CMHA) Introduction
VK ENGAGE Leadership Training Series
When: June 13th 10:00am - 12:00pm
Where: VIU tiwšɛmawtxʷ
Cost: $100 ($75 for existing VK ENGAGE clients)
Facilitator: Kara Fogwell, RCC, RSW, & CMHA trained in Psychological Health and Safety Standards
This 2-hour training of the National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace. Participants gain insights into fostering mental well-being and safety of employees and team.
November
Calm & Cool
This series teaches kids how to deal with worry and anxiety through games and science experiments. Sessions incorporate neuroscience education, mindfulness practices, and stories. Also included is safety training such as helping children learn when it is best to listen to anxiety or when they may want to activate their calm and cool. The cost of this program can be covered by most extended medical benefits.
Calm & Cool K-2 (4 classes)
April 7 - 28 | 4 - 5 pm
Calm & Cool 3-5 (4 classes)
May 5 - 264 - 5 pm
Post Partum Connections
This eight week program is designed to help support parents by identifying personal triggers and stressors, such as parenting or adding a child to a family, exploring parenting expectations, relationships challenges, body image, as well as shifts in identity.
Times:
April 7 - May 26 | 10:45-11:45 am
Moving through inherited family trauma
This workshop will cover the work of Mark Wolynn on inherited family trauma. It will look into understanding how previous generations affect who we are, our responsibility for action, and moving towards a fulfilling life by changing dysfunctional patterns. The cost of this program can be covered by most extended medical benefits.
Time:
April 20 - May 11 OR May 25 - June 15 | 05:45 - 6:45pm
Prenatal Yoga & Tea Party
This is a gentle class allowing for time and space for you to connect with your breath, body and baby in a safe community setting. Prenatal is designed to support mother-to-be on their own personal pregnancy journey.
Time:
April 24 - May 15 OR May 29 - June 19 | 10:00 - 11:00 am
Postnatal Yoga & Tea Party
Postnatal Yoga is designed to support postpartum recovery into motherhood. This class will address the emotional and physical challenges many new and experiences mothers face from lack of sleep and heightened sensitivity to celebrating your body's incredible journey.
Time:
April 24 - May 15 OR May 29 - June 19 | 11:15 - 12:15am
Food Climate Connection
Food plays a significant role in our daily lives and influences our carbon footprint and health. Based on the Planetary Health Diet and Ecological Footprint report of Powell River, we will explore together high and low carbon emission food.
Time:
April 27 OR May 25 | 4:00 -6:00 pm
From ECO-ANXIETY To ECO-HOPE
Make sure to Follow-up the "Remembrance day for lost species" with this powerful integration program that supports the transformation of eco anxiety to eco-Hope. If you experience eco-anxiety you are not alone. Eco-Anxiety is becoming more and more common and is now a recognized expereince in behavioural health literature. What we have learned is it is real as well as an essential factor in eco related action.This event is a combination of education and Eco-therapy to help you understand your eco-anxiety
Facilitators: Several VK Wellness Clinical Specialists
When: November 29
Time: 4:00PM to 6:00PM
Location: TBD
Cost: $20 for event performers and organizers
$35 for event attendees
December
January 2023
Calm & Cool
This series teaches kids how to deal with worry and anxiety through games and science experiments. Sessions incorporate neuroscience education, mindfulness practices, and stories. Also included is safety training such as helping children learn when it is best to listen to anxiety or when they may want to activate their calm and cool. The cost of this program can be covered by most extended medical benefits.
Ages: 6-10
Facilitators: Kara Fogwell, RSW, RCC
Dates: Friday's January 20 - February 10
Time: 4:00 - 5:00PM
Where: Powell River Recreation Complex
Cost: $100
February 2023
Gratitude & Intention Meditation Series
This four week program sets you up for a fresh start to 2023. Our instructor, Kyla, will offer four different 45 minute meditation practices to deepen and connect with the gratitude experience and explore your intentions for the new year.
Ages: 16+
Facilitators: Kyla Mazurek, Certified Meditation Teacher and a Mindfulness Art Facilitator
Dates: : Tuesdays, February 7 - 28
Time: 6:45 – 7:30PM
Where: Powell River Recreation Complex
Cost: $100
Calm & Cool Mindful Bead Bracelet Workshop
This program teaches children to connect to their calm and cool emotions through the use of their own stone bead bracelet. In the first class, children will create their own bracelet and participate in a guided practice using it to bring them calm when they are feeling stressed. The second class will be a time to share about using the bracelet and practice a variety of calming strategies to help with anxiety and stress. The beads are included in this program.
Ages: 8-13
Facilitators: Kyla Mazurek, Certified Meditation Teacher and a Mindfulness Art Facilitator
Dates: Tuesday, February 21 & 28
Time: 4:00 - 5:00PM
Where: Powell River Recreation Complex
Cost: $70
March 2023
Meditation Exploration Series
This program will introduce participants to four different meditation practices, including mindfulness meditation, visualizations, loving – kindness practices, and mindful walking or movement. Join our instructor, Kyla, to experience a tasting of the many different ways you can meditate.
Ages: 16+
Facilitators: Kyla Mazurek, Certified Meditation Teacher and a Mindfulness Art Facilitator
Dates: : Tuesdays, March 7 - 28
Time: 6:45 – 7:30PM
Where: Powell River Recreation Complex
Cost: $100
6- Weeks to Better Sleep
Ever feel like your sleep schedule is out of sync with the rest of your life? You're exhausted all day… but then can't sleep at night? Or maybe you feel like you are sleeping enough, but you are still so tired the next day?
This six-week program will give you the tools you need to improve the quality of your sleep and daytime energy levels by re-synching your internal clock with the rhythms of nature. You will be guided step by step through the process of creating your unique sleep schedule using lifestyle modifications, nutrition, herbs and stress management techniques.
Program Includes:
Four 1-hour bi-weekly group classes facilitated by Mara (zoom also available)
One 20-minute private phone consultation with Mara
Handouts, recipes and other resources every class
Email support for the entire six weeks
Exclusive discounts for my online dispensary and for Urban Earth Teas and Wellness
When: March 30th April 13th, April 27th, May 11th - 6PM
Facilitator: Mara L. Jones, Clinical Herbal Therapist, Sleep Coach
Cost: $100.00
Where: The VK Wellness Initiative 4313 Alberta St.
April 2023
Holistic Anxiety Management
Description: Anxiety is a helpful experience for us that keeps us safe. However, often times we get stuck feeling like anxious for a variety of reasons. Some of us even develop anxiety disorders that will not go away without clinical treatment. This unique group offers an in-depth look at what anxiety is with an introduction to Acceptance and Commitment therapy treatment for this disorder. VK Clinical specialists will introduce you to lifestyle, herbal therapy, and yoga treatment for the relief and transformation of anxiety.
For more information, please join us for a FREE introduction to the program on April 26th at 5:15. Email info@vkwellness.ca to register.
Facilitators: Alana Rosenfeld, Clinical Counselling Student, Mara Jones, Clinical Herbal Therapist, Ciara Knapp, RN, certified yoga teacher, Kyla Mazurak, Certified Meditation Teacher.
Dates: TBD (4 weeks)
Location: TBD
Cost: $300 (Offered on a sliding scale)
Email info@vkwellness.ca to register
Restore- Meditation, Movement & Massage
Honour and renew your mind and body. A nourishing, restorative class to encourage balance and ease by calming the nervous system. Give yourself support with gentle breathing, movement, stretching, and self-massage exercises. Experience gentle (optional) relaxation touch/ massage techniques from Kyla. Relax and prepare the body and mind to go inward for a guided meditation.
Dates: Sundays April 2, 16, 23, & 30 (no class on Easter Sunday April 9)
Time: 3-4 pm
Cost: $25 per session drop in, or $80 for 4 classes
Facilitator: Kyla Mazurak, Certified Meditation Teacher & Massage Specialist
What to bring: cushion, blanket, yoga mat, a water bottle, and anything to help you feel more comfortable.
Explore- Mindful Art and Meditation
Give yourself permission to create and the freedom to express and play without judgement. A class exploring awareness through meditation and mindful art activities without a goal, allowing you to be fully immersed in each moment.
Dates: Monday April 3, 17, & 24 (no class on Easter Monday April 10)
Time: 6-7 pm
Cost: $30 per session drop in, or $75 for 3 classes
Facilitator: Kyla Mazurak, Certified Meditation Teacher & Mindful Art Facilitator
What to bring: cushion, blanket, yoga mat, a water bottle, a journal and pen, and anything to help you feel more comfortable.
Embrace the Journey Through Menopause
All too often the transition experience of menopause leaves women feeling lost in discomfort and confusing messages about the changes they are experiencing, This integrated program will explore it all: hormones, sleep, diet, and physical changes. Strategies for embracing the journey are also offered, including nutritional support, sleep strategies, mindfulness based practices, and a yoga practice to close each class.
Ages: 40+
Facilitators: Kara Fogwell, RSW, RCC, Mara Jones, Clinical Herbal Therapist, Cherie Seidler, Registeres Holistic Nutritionist, Heidi Aliyo, Certified Yoga Instructor
Dates: : Saturday, Jan 21 & 28
Time: 9:00AM – 2:00PM
Participant Fee: $125
Where: Powell River Recreation Complex
Cost: $150.00
FREE Mindful Wellness Self-Check-in
Make real changes the new year. This is a perfect brief workshop for you to set your NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS informed by what you actually need to do for more wellness! This is a free online session to self-assess your current wellness. We work through The VK Wellness model in a structure way that can help you identify personal wellness strengths and needs.
Facilitators: Alana Rosenfeld, Clinical Counselling Student
When: January 12
6:30 - 8:00PM
Where: Videoconference - Online
Cost: Free
