Bluestem Therapy

Ilana Wiebe MA, CCC

Welcome!

For those who feel stuck, lonely, afraid, sad, frustrated, or hurt and who wish to seek wellness, counselling and mental health support can be helpful. And believe it or not, we already have what it takes to see change in our lives, even if we need a little help getting there! My job is to help you discover your strengths and your own unique way of engaging and moving through life’s difficult moments.

I offer support for those living with anxiety, grief, spiritual issues, depression, relationship difficulties, and many more issues. I use an integrative approach to help you reach your goals in a timely way. I also have my body, mind, and spirit rooted in my garden, so don’t be surprised if I reference gardening in our sessions!

It can be really hard to reach out for support, but I am here to help you. I look forward to hearing from you.

I work with individuals age 13 and over. I am currently accepting new clients in my Winnipeg and Steinbach locations.

Hi! I’m Ilana

I hold a Master of Arts in Counselling from Providence University College. I am passionate about therapy, about people, about my garden, and about my family.

I also hold a Master of Theological Studies from Wycliffe College in Toronto. I worked as a chaplain at a tertiary care hospital in Winnipeg for a while, so I’m acquainted with grief, with crisis, with trauma of all sorts, and also with the pieces of joy and beauty that can break through even the darkest moments. I believe that all health incorporates the body, the mind, and the spirit, and no matter where you are in your personal journey, I am so excited to get to know you and your unique story.

I use a psychodynamic approach to therapy. This means that we’ll talk, and by talking I’ll get to know you and work to understand what it’s like to be you in the world. This type of slow, deep work takes time, and includes various coping skills and techniques when appropriate. When the unconscious maps and patterns you’ve been following come to your conscious awareness, you will find freedom of choice in situations where you never felt you had choice before. It is a beautiful thing!

I am a professional member in good standing of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.

“The natural progression… of the development of integrated minds, relationships, and communities is fully realized in the experience of joy – joy even in the presence of very hard places. For secure attachment is not primarily about the absence of pain but the presence of joy in the face of those challenging places. It is not about the absence of ruptures but the faithful repair of ruptures, even when repair seems beyond the reach of our imaginations.”

– Dr. Curt Thompson, The Soul of Shame

I use elements of interpersonal neurobiology, cognitive behavioural therapy, psychoanalytic therapy, and emotions-focused therapy in my work, in what is called an “integrative approach.” I use a trauma-informed approach, and deeply value an inclusive space – you are welcome here.

What is counselling?

Counselling, or psychotherapy, is done with a trained professional who journeys alongside you as you explore who you are, where you’re going, and how you got to where you are in the first place. Together we will find a shared purpose of therapy, with the understanding that you’re the expert in your own story.

Is it for you?

If you’re human and have lived on earth, counselling can be beneficial for you. It’s really important to forge a good connection with your therapist, so if you feel we’re not a good fit or if I’m not the best therapist to help with your particular concerns, I’ll provide you with appropriate referrals.

What to expect…

Therapy can be difficult; it is definitely a vulnerable process; and it’s going to be some hard work. There may be tears, there may be laughter, and sometimes you won’t want to come to your sessions. But when you come anyway, I hope you’ll be glad you did and I will work with you to make sure it’s the best experience possible.

How much?

My rates are $130 per session. I do not direct bill your insurance provider, but if you are covered for “Counselling” or “Psychotherapy” you should be reimbursed for my services. I will provide you a receipt as required.

Contact

Still have questions or want to book? Send me a note and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

If there are any issues with the form, of if you’d prefer, you can send an email to contact@bluestemtherapy.ca

Why Bluestem?

Ask anyone who knows me, and they’ll tell you that I love my garden and getting my hands dirty. Gardening keeps me grounded, and bluestem grass (Andropogon gerardii) is an indigenous prairie grass, so it’s a part of my prairie home. Bluestem is one of my favourites, and it’s a reminder of home and of my deep roots in this province and its soil. But then again, I will point to any plant and probably call it one of my favourites. What a problem to have!