Alia Mai
MSW, CNP, RCC, YTT500
My TrainingI discovered yoga and began a full time practice at the age of 18. After practicing for 5 years, I lived in an ashram in Varanasi, India where I met my teacher, practiced and studied daily. I have now been practicing for 14 years and teaching for 7.
I studied Holistic Nutrition at the Institute for Holistic Nutrition in Toronto where I took a particular interest in macrobiotic nutrition, Ayurveda, herbalism, and the use of supplements to treat acute ailments in the body. My education includes an Honors Bachelors of Social Work at York University in Toronto and a Masters of Social Work at the University of Toronto where I specialized in a collaborative Mental Health, and Clinical Counselling for Addictions Program. I specialized in studying psychotherapeutic methods such as cognitive behavioural therapy, transpersonal therapy and analytical psychology. I use an integrative approach that combines the above approaches with empowerment, person centered and strength based practice. When or if the need arises, I will also use mindful practice approaches and recommend nutritional supplements.
I bring with me practice experience as a clinical counsellor and program coordinator at a Health Center in downtown Toronto and clinical counsellor and Case Manager at a women’s inpatient/outpatient drug treatment facility. |
My StoryI grew up as a very athletic and creative, extra sensitive person. Because of my sensitivity I was prone to anxiety. I always used creativity and athleticism as a means to discharge my anxious energy, but I never really had the tools to cope with my feelings.
At the age of 18 I had an incredibly painful injury in my lower spine. I had two herniated discs in my lower spine pressing on a nerve in my left leg. I was in a lot of pain, both emotionally and physically. When I went to the doctors they told me I was a young and healthy person, they did not seem to take my pain seriously, instead they prescribed painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications and sent me home. Over the months my condition worsened and I recognize now I was not receiving the help that I needed. The doctor I was seeing made me think this was going to be my life forever. I was left with zero hope that I would recover, both physically and mentally. It was not the doctor’s fault, old science did not know what science today has led us to understand. I am sure some of you are nodding to yourselves knowing you have been there with a doctor before or perhaps with that feeling of hopelessness before. I ended up in the hospital and was sent to see a specialist. The specialist realized that if I didn’t go for immediate surgery there was going to be permanent nerve damage in my leg and I may lose my ability to feel or move forever. I went for surgery, I woke up without anymore pain, and that is really where my journey began. |