”Healing doesn’t mean the damage never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives.”
~ Akshay Dubey
My Story
Early in life, I learned that not everyone would protect me, be there for me, or hold my best interests at heart. I grew up afraid to take up space, make mistakes, or embarrass myself. I thought that if I stayed small and quiet I could avoid judgment and rejection.
As a result, I became a people-pleaser, shaping myself into whatever version of “me” I thought others would accept and love. But in doing so, I lost sight of my true self. I let others define who I was, and got lost in a cycle of anxiety, fear, and doubt, and worried about being “too much” or “not enough.” Moments of pride were drowned out by an inner critic reminding me that I still wasn’t good enough.
I withdrew, bottled up my emotions, and fell into a peacekeeper role.
Eventually, the weight of my fears and anxieties began to take a toll. I reached a point where I knew I needed to change, and that change had to start with me. In many ways, this meant unlearning everything I thought I knew about how to survive.
Healing is not a straight path, but by listening to my body and emotions, I’ve slowly uncovered a stronger and more authentic version of myself. One who can set boundaries without feeling guilt, begin to love parts of myself, and quiet my inner critic. I’ve reclaimed parts of me that were once buried, silenced, and shamed.
From this place, I want to help others do the same. In partnership, I strive to guide people in releasing the pain from their past, challenging the stories that keep them stuck, and reconnecting with the most powerful, joyful, and authentic part of themselves.
My Areas of Focus
Self Criticism & Self Worth
Identity & Self Discovery
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Difficulties
Trauma
Attachment & Developmental Wounds
Contact Elze at elze@innersummits.ca, or book a complimentary phone consultation