Neighbourhood Referral List
Avery Therapy is counselling practice that provides trauma-informed care. Many of our clients also benefit from working with trusted paramedical and holistic practitioners such as RMTs, acupuncturists, chiropractors, and other allied providers so we've created a Neighborhood Referral List — a curated network of local clinicians whose practice values and approaches align with ours. The intention of this is to support thoughtful, values-based referrals and to strengthen connections among like-minded practitioners in our community.
Our intention is to build a referral network grounded in:
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Trauma-informed care
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Anti-oppressive and equity-informed practice
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Compassion-focused, client-centred work
Registered Massage Therapy
Cascade Massage Therapy (RMT) - suzanne@cascademassagetherapy.ca
As registered massage therapists, we are strongly encouraged to practice in a trauma-informed way. I have personally seen how supportive massage therapy can be for people who are also receiving counselling or other mental health care. At Cascade Massage Therapy, we ensure every patient understands what to expect during treatment by reviewing informed consent and emphasizing that they are in control of the session just as much as the therapist. Clients are always free to pause or stop treatment at any time for any reason. We pay close attention to both verbal and non-verbal cues and adjust treatments to meet each patient’s needs. Clear, ongoing communication is a priority, and we encourage clients to let us know if their needs change, if anything feels uncomfortable, or if they would like to shift focus during a session. We aim to create a respectful, inclusive environment where all clients feel safe, heard, and supported.
Cedarwood Therapy (RMT) - cedarwoodtherapy@gmail.com
How does trauma-informed care show up in your day-to-day clinical practice?
Trauma-informed care in my practice means prioritizing safety, choice, and collaboration. I always explain treatment options clearly, obtain ongoing consent, and adjust techniques based on client comfort and feedback. I work at a pace that feels supportive rather than directive, and I respect each client’s autonomy and lived experience.
How do you incorporate anti-oppressive, culturally responsive, or equity-informed principles into your work?
I strive to approach each client without assumptions and with curiosity and respect for their unique cultural, social, and personal context. I am mindful of power dynamics in the treatment room and aim to create an inclusive, non-judgmental space where clients feel seen, heard, and respected. I also continue to reflect on my own biases and engage in ongoing learning.
What does compassionate, client-centred care mean to you in your practice?
Compassionate, client-centred care means truly listening to clients and tailoring treatment to their individual goals, needs, and boundaries. It involves meeting clients where they are, validating their experiences, and supporting their healing in a way that feels collaborative and empowering rather than prescriptive.
AcuElements (Acupuncture, Chinese Herb, RMT, Lactation, Physio, Counselling)
How does trauma-informed care show up in your day-to-day clinical practice?
Trauma-informed care at AcuElements begins with pacing, consent, and predictability. We are attentive to nervous system responses, body autonomy, and the client’s sense of control throughout assessment and treatment. This includes clear communication, permission-based touch, flexibility in positioning, and the option to pause or modify treatment at any time.
How do you incorporate anti-oppressive, culturally responsive, or equity-informed principles into your work with clients?
Our clinic serves a highly diverse population, including many newcomers and clients for whom English is not a first language. We prioritize culturally responsive communication, avoid pathologizing differences, and remain aware of how power, migration history, and systemic barriers can shape a client’s healthcare experience. Practical accommodations and respectful curiosity are embedded in our clinical decision-making.
What does compassionate, client-centred care mean to you in your practice?
For us, compassionate care means meeting clients where they are — physically, emotionally, and contextually — rather than where a protocol suggests they “should” be. Treatment plans are collaborative, adaptive, and grounded in the client’s lived reality, capacity, and goals.
Intent Health (RMT) - info@intenthealth.ca
How does trauma-informed care show up in your day-to-day clinical practice?
We’re a team of RMTs who have a trauma-informed and evidence-based approach to massage therapy. Trauma-informed care is foundational to how we practice. This includes co-creating physical and relational safety, offering choice and consent throughout treatment, being mindful of the set and setting and how we carry ourselves, collaborating with clients, remaining attentive to nervous system cues, and prioritizing clear communication. We adapt pacing, pressure, positioning, and communication based on each client’s needs and preferences.
"Trauma-informed massage therapy is an approach to practice and not a massage technique. It involves fostering trust, safety, clear communication and collaboration with patients and reduces the chances of inadvertently causing additional harm. Care provided in a trauma-informed manner is beneficial for all clients and should be applied as a universal standard of care, regardless of trauma history or disclosure." -Intent blog post
How do you incorporate anti-oppressive, culturally responsive, or equity-informed principles into your work with clients?
We recognize that bodies exist within social, cultural, and historical contexts, and that experiences of pain and stress are modulated/influenced by these factors. Our approach emphasizes curiosity, ongoing learning, and collaboration rather than positioning ourselves as experts over someone else’s lived experience. We use inclusive language, get curious about meaningful client-led goals, remain mindful of power dynamics inherent in healthcare relationships, and hold regular discussion nights as a team to explore topics and case studies through a trauma-informed lens.
What does compassionate, client-centred care mean to you in your practice?
Meeting clients where they are, respecting their autonomy, and treating them as active participants in their care. It involves listening closely, adapting care plans collaboratively, and recognizing strengths and resilience alongside challenges. For us, compassion also shows up in how we care for ourselves and stay connected to the shared experience of being human, which allows us to hold genuine respect for each person’s boundaries, goals, and lived experience.