Columbia Counselling Associates

07/23/2026

I have created something new, and I am very excited to finally share it!

"Who Am I? Finding My Way Back to Myself" is a free reflective mini journal for anyone who feels disconnected from themselves, uncertain about who they are becoming, or aware that old roles and descriptions no longer fit quite as well as they once did.

The questions invite you to explore what has shaped you, what matters to you, what brings you alive, and what you may be ready to reconnect with or reclaim.

You can download it completely free through the link below. You are welcome to print it, complete it digitally, or use the questions as prompts in your own journal.

I hope it offers a meaningful place to begin.

Get your FREE download at:
HaideWallGiesbrecht.Substack.com

07/03/2026

What if the problem isn't you?

That simple question became the starting point for a thoughtful conversation with Dan Ackers.

We share stories from our own journeys and reflect on what we've learned about self-compassion, neurodiversity, expectations, and building lives that work with who we are rather than constantly fighting against ourselves.

If you've ever wondered why trying harder wasn't the answer, I hope you'll find encouragement in this conversation.

~ Haide

https://open.substack.com/pub/haidewallgiesbrecht/p/what-if-the-problem-isnt-you?r=22heqr&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

06/26/2026

04/15/2026

**Perspectives, Realities, and What to Expect: Understanding Reconstructive Skin Removal Plastic Surgery**

In this thoughtful and grounded conversation, I sit down with Dr. Juan Pablo Cervantes to explore the often-misunderstood world of reconstructive skin removal surgery.

Together, we unpack the realities behind the procedure—moving beyond assumptions and surface-level narratives to better understand what this process actually involves, both physically and emotionally.

Dr. Cervantes offers insight into what qualifies someone for reconstructive surgery, how decisions are made, and what patients can realistically expect before, during, and after the procedure. We also talk about the deeper layers that don’t always get discussed—identity, healing, expectations, and the ways people navigate change in their bodies over time.

This conversation is not just about surgery. It’s about perspective. It’s about understanding the lived experience behind the choice, and creating space for more informed, compassionate conversations around bodies, change, and care.

Whether you’re personally considering this path, supporting someone who is, or simply curious to learn more, this episode offers a clear and respectful look into a topic that deserves more nuance and openness.

Listen at Encouragement Along the Journey on
Spotify and Substack

https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/VgkcLuExl2b

01/25/2026

Holding Dreams, Living Meaningfully, and Staying Open to What Is Still Unfolding

12/11/2025

🎙 New Podcast Episode: Assumptions, Identity, and the Courage to Listen
Listen here:

05/30/2025

Growth is a journey, not a milestone. Honour the progression.

~ Haide

03/08/2025

Candid Conversations Between Friends

The new podcast is up!

I had the privilege of hosting two dear friends, Darice and Laura, on my podcast.

https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/encouragement/episodes/Candid-Conversations-Between-Friends-e2vsab2

In this engaging conversation, Haide, Darice, and Laura explore the dynamics of friendship, personal growth, and the challenges of maintaining New Year's resolutions. They reflect on their journeys through various life seasons, emphasizing the importance of community, intentionality, and creating environments that foster creativity and alignment with personal values. The discussion highlights the significance of embracing change and the ongoing quest for meaning and purpose in life, regardless of age.

01/26/2025

Join counsellor Haide Wall Giesbrecht as she talks with her family's former service provider about helpful supports - how to find them and how to be them.

Encouragement Along The Journey · Episode

10/15/2024

LIVING IN THE SHADOW OF GRIEF

"A number of years ago I finally got to realize a childhood dream of visiting Mt. St. Helen's. The memory of the eruption was seared into my recollection. Even though we lived in the Lower Mainland of BC, more than 4 hours north of the volcano, I recall waking up on a Sunday morning with ash coating car windows, stairs, and outside surfaces in general. That was the day I became aware of the fact that we live in the shadow of volcanoes."

Our counsellor Haide's new blog post is up at:

https://haidecounsellor.wixsite.com/encouragement-along/post/living-in-the-shadow-of-grief

People sometimes ask me if my blog has a specific focus or intent. My main intent is to walk alongside my readers, sharing my experiences, addressing questions people ask me, and learning together. This post will lean heavily into storytelling and my own experience. It may be a little on the longer....