Groups

Contemplative Writing

Wednesdays, 6-8pm. Apr 1 & 15, 29; May 13, 27; June 10, 2026.

Contemplative Writing is a practice of befriending ourselves through writing in community. We meet our thoughts, feeling and experiences with openness and curiosity and seek to give these voice. In this way, we become familiar with the creative force that shapes our perceptions and expresses our truth. We invite awareness, develop self-kindness, and nurture our ability to share from our hearts.

Each session includes time for a check-in, meditation, writing, sharing, and responding. Groups are suitable for beginners as well as seasoned meditators and writers.

Groups are facilitated with a trauma-aware approach that respects and welcomes neurodiversity.

Speaking from the Heart

If you are interested in joining a Speaking from the Heart group, please contact me. I will be in touch when the next group is offered.

Speaking from the Heart is a sharing circle where we welcome ourselves and others as we are and cultivate mindfulness, authenticity, and loving-kindness in relation to our human condition. Gentle practices will be offered to help us reconnect with the wisdom inherent within and amongst us–the brilliant sanity of our heart. The intention of the group is to nurture compassionate community that supports our wellbeing and resilience as we navigate the ups and downs of life. Each session will also include time for a short meditation.

Groups are facilitated with a trauma-aware approach that respects and welcomes neurodiversity.

Speaking from the Heart is an approach to compassionate community developed by Karuna Training.

Contact me to sign up for a group.

Group Fees

*Groups are eligible for reimbursement by all insurance plans that cover Registered Clinical Counsellors. The listed fee is for one group (6 sessions).

Financially-stressed: $150-$295
Financially-stable: $300-$350 (sustaining rate)
Financially-thriving: $355-$500

Please contact me to register for the group(s) of your choice. Your e-transfer payment will secure your spot.

Refund policy: Like most solo practitioners offering live programs, I am not able to offer refunds. If you are unsure if a group is a good fit, please reach out beforehand and I will be happy to have a conversation with you.

Location

We will meet in the upstairs hall at 1-2033 Belmont St, Victoria, BC. This is in the Victoria Shambhala Centre in Fernwood. There is ample free parking as well as a bike rack out front. Note that while we are located at the Shambhala Centre, these are not Shambhala groups.

Who are groups suitable for?

Groups are well suited to anyone who wishes to connect more deeply with self & others, and build new relationships based on authentic communication. While groups are not a substitute for individual therapy, they are helpful for supporting self-awareness, emotional wellbeing and connections with others. Having the capacity to listen non-judgmentally and the willingness to share honestly are important. You will also be asked to abide by certain ground-rules regarding respect and confidentiality, which will be discussed upfront. Groups are not suitable if you are in active addiction or experiencing an acute mental health crisis. If you are not sure if a group is suitable for you, please speak with me.

Testimonials

“Pamela’s writing group has been a steady, sustaining practice for me over several years—held in thoughtful care and shared with deep, creative, good humans.”

“I appreciated the structure and the feeling of being held, listened to and seen, and of safety.”

“I appreciated the safe space to create, free of judgment and full of joy.”

“A profoundly inspiring way to explore and share the written word in a most creative and invitational setting.”

“I would recommend this group to anyone looking for a creative outlet and a safe space to dig deeper and connect within, while connecting with others.”

“The group provided a safe place to share and work through difficult emotions. These bubble up very organically but also unexpectedly, so it feels valuable and important that you know how to receive them and guide us through them.”