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Don't let distance or location prevent you from getting the help and support you need.
About Stride Wellness
Stride Wellness provides counselling services with a holistic approach. Michelle has a Master of Education in Counselling and a passion for helping and supporting others in reaching their personal, academic and career goals. She works to remove barriers by providing traditional therapeutic counselling services with alternatives for those where distance, location and therapeutic setting may prevent them from accessing the support and resources they desire. Although Stride Wellness is based out of Kamloops, BC, the intention is to use technological resources in a safe and secure manner to reach those across Canada and International markets to ensure all who require the use of a counsellor have access to it. For those in the Thompson Okanagan region, Walking Therapy will also be offered for in-person counselling sessions. Groups and workshops will be available in a variety of formats and will cover a number of topics.
Michelle is skilled in a number of techniques including, but not limited to, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Response Based Therapy. Ultimately, all counselling sessions are client-led and the needs of each client are unique, meaning the direction taken will be based on the clients goals.
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Michelle is open to working with clients with all kinds of needs and has a special passion for those experiencing grief, loss and/or trauma. In addition, Michelle has set aside time for 5 hours of pro bono work per month for caregivers who've had a child in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Plus, a percentage of the proceeds from the Weary & Burdened podcast will be donated to BC Women & Children's Hospital in Vancouver, BC.
Counselling Staff
Michelle Onyango
MEd. in Counselling, RCC
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I want to try walking therapy over traditional counselling?
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There are many reasons you may prefer this option. Those who have tried walking therapy say it helps them get "unstuck." Being outdoors has a natural calming effect. There is also research showing that walking assists the issue to move from the left and right sides of the brain and helps to work through the problem.
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I'm concerned I wont be fit enough to try walking therapy.
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If you have approval by a doctor to participate you will be fit enough. You set the pace so you don't have to worry about covering a certain distance. This is appropriate for all shapes and weights.
What about privacy? What if people see us walking?
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People are out walking and talking all the time. If we see someone you know, your privacy is of uttmost importance and the reason for our walk will not be disclosed. Privacy will be discussed during our first meeting to ensure your comfort.
CONTACT US
Contact Information
Kamloops, BC, Canada
Tel: 250-574-3121
Hours
Monday – Friday 08:30 – 14:00; 16:00 - 19:00
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I want to try walking therapy over traditional counselling?
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There are many reasons you may prefer this option. Those who have tried walking therapy say it helps them get "unstuck." In additon, being outdoors has a natural calming effect. For others, they want an alternative to sitting in a counselling office. Plus, you can always try Walking Therapy to see whether you find it helpful before choosing an alternative option.
I'm concerned I wont be fit enough to try walking therapy.
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If you have approval by a doctor to participate you will be fit enough. You set the pace so you don't have to worry about covering a certain distance. This is appropriate for all shapes and weights.
What about privacy? What if people see us walking?
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People are out walking and talking all the time. If we see someone you know, your privacy is of uttmost importance and the reason for our walk will not be disclosed. Privacy will be discussed during our first meeting to ensure your comfort.
Is video and telephone counselling private and secure?
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I am required to keep all documents and files private and secure. We will discuss the limits to confidentiality when we first meet. All the forms will be stored securely according to standards set out by my profession. I also have high security settings on my computer and phone. We can discuss this in more depth during our consultation.
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Is there a sliding scale for services? Can I use my benefits from work to pay for counselling?
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There is a sliding scale for anyone where finances are a barrier to service. Unfortunately, work benefits can not be used at this time. I am in the process of trying to increase the number of benefits programs I can accept. You can, however, submit the receipts when you file your taxes as a deduction.
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How many sessions will I need?
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This varies from person to person. The number of sessions will be dependent on your goals. We can discuss this in more detail duirng our initial session. We will also reassess this as sessions progress.
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SERVICES
Video/Telephone Counselling
Secure and private counselling sessions that occur via telehealth or telephone. This service removes location and distance as a barrier to counselling services. This is also a great option for those who choose to remain in the comfort of their own space while engaging in therapy.
Online Courses
Similar to a workshop but presented online in a course format with videos, audio files, downloadable resources and an online support community.
Individual Counselling
(not offered during COVID)
A therapeutic in-person counselling session that occurs in the Stride Wellness office. If you're seeking counselling for academic, career or personal reasons, this 1-to-1 therapy is the most common choice by those who attend counselling.
Walking Therapy
(not offered during COVID)
What you expect from in-person counselling but done while walking. There is a preset walking location and you set the pace. There are individual and group options available. This is a great option for those who are feeling "stuck" or are interested in an alternative to counselling done in an office setting.
Video/Telephone Coaching
Secure and private coaching sessions that occur via telehealth or telephone. This service removes location and distance as a barrier to and helps individuals set and reach goals in an effort to live a more fulfilling and happy life.
Workshops
These are psychoeducational workshops on a variety of topics. Duration of the workshop will vary from 1.5 hours to a weekend presentation. A minimum of 6 attendees required with a maximum of 20. Special rates apply for teams and/or corporate bookings.
Group Counselling
(not offered during COVID)
In-person counselling done in a group setting. These occur over 8-12 sessions with 6-12 participants. A variety of groups will be offered. Session length is typically 2 hours long.