About the Series

This is a trauma-informed workshop series meticulously designed to offer concrete tools, strategies, and profound self-exploration, creating a holistic approach to overcoming barriers that can emerge during the daunting process of academic pursuits. Each workshop is curated with care, focusing on the unique needs of graduate students across all stages.

Flexible Learning Options

We believe in providing you with a learning experience that fits seamlessly into your busy schedule. That's why we're excited to offer you the choice to either attend our workshop live or access the recorded session at a later time that suits you best.

  • Live Interaction

    Join us in real-time for an engaging and interactive workshop experience. Participate in Q&A sessions, discussions, and activities, all while connecting with fellow participants.

  • Video Recordings

    Life can be unpredictable, but your learning doesn't have to be. If you can't make it to the live session, no worries! You'll have access to the recorded workshop to watch at your convenience. Pause, rewind, and revisit key points whenever you like.

  • No FOMO

    Worried about missing out? You're welcome to join any of the live workshops scheduled throughout the year! We want to ensure that you'll have all the tools you need to succeed.

Discount on Personalized Coaching

By enrolling in the complete series, you gain access to an exclusive 50% discount on up to five 30-minute coaching sessions. We understand that integrating workshop insights can sometimes be a challenge. That's why we're providing this exclusive opportunity to receive personalized guidance. We will help you navigate through the workshop material, address your questions, and assist you in creating a customized action plan.

  • Tailored Learning

    Deepen your understanding of workshop concepts through personalized one-on-one coaching. We will tailor the session to your unique goals and challenges, ensuring that you get the most out of the workshop material.

  • Ongoing Feedback and Support

    Your learning journey doesn't end with the workshop – it's just the beginning. Benefit from ongoing feedback and support as you put your new knowledge into action.

  • Confidentiality and Comfort

    You will access to a safe space to ask questions, share ideas, and explore strategies. Our coaching sessions offer a confidential environment where you can openly discuss your challenges and receive support.

  • Insurance Coverage

    If you reside in British Columbia, Canada, your extended health plan could potentially cover these sessions, given that they are led by a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC). We recommend reaching out to your graduate student society, as many university students typically receive some form of coverage.

How to Reserve Your Coaching Session

When registering for the workshop, simply select the "+ 2 x 30-min coaching sessions" payment option. We'll coordinate with you to schedule these sessions at a date and time that suit your convenience. Please note that these discounted coaching sessions are an optional enhancement available exclusively to workshop participants and valid for the year.

Pricing Options

By enrolling in the complete series, you're receiving 5 workshops for the price of 4, as well as gaining access to a 50% discount on coaching sessions!

Get to know your facilitator!

Registered Clinical Counsellor Robbie Ruddell

Robbie graduated with Honours from his Master of Arts in Psychology and Italian at the University of St. Andrews, Scotland. His thesis focused on the impact of stress on humans. Following this, he completed his postgraduate diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling at the University of Cambridge, England. Returning to Vancouver, he completed his second Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology with a specialization in Measurement, Evaluation, and Research Methodology at the University of British Columbia, Canada. He was awarded Honours with Distinction for his thesis which evaluated the psychometric properties of the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Robbie completed his clinical training at Simon Fraser University’s Health and Counselling Services. Shortly after graduating, Robbie helped found the Trauma Informed Practice Institute in Vancouver, which supported clinicians and other professionals to integrate trauma informed practices into their work. Robbie has worked for UBC as a Career Advisor with the Centre for Student Involvement and Careers, as well as a Teaching Fellow in the Department of Psychology for courses on developmental, social, personality, and clinical psychology. In his current position as Department Head for Counselling Services at Vancouver Community College, Robbie is actively engaged in the education and integration of inclusive, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed processes and practices across campus. Robbie’s clinical practice is deeply informed by the field of relational neuroscience and the belief that by cultivating a relationship with our inner worlds, we may begin to connect more deeply with ourselves, and by relying on this emergent trust in ourselves as our guide, we may journey towards experiences of health and vitality.