Alice Brand

Having grown up with a constant sense of not fitting in, I often felt like a stranger in the world—unable to decipher relational codes or conform to social norms. Diagnosed later in life with an emotional disorder and marked by a profound sensitivity, I long saw my differences as a burden. It was only after an extensive inner journey that I discovered a precious truth: my uniqueness wasn’t an obstacle but a strength.

Today, I am a therapist specializing in supporting highly sensitive individuals and those with atypical needs, often struggling with relational challenges or a deep feeling of being “abnormal.” I work particularly with those who feel “different,” “abnormal,” or “problematic” in the world and in their relationships. These individuals often feel as though they were born without the “manual for relationships,” which leads to self-doubt and a lack of confidence. They aspire to a stable and peaceful life—both professionally and relationally—but feel overwhelmed and unable to achieve it on their own. I help them better understand their inner complexity and transform their differences into strengths.

My approach centers on emotional regulation, allowing my clients to embrace their feelings and turn them into allies. Drawing from a variety of resources, including breathing exercises inspired by yoga, this emotional exploration is paired with a deeper understanding of internal mechanisms. Each session provides a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their identities and develop both self-esteem and self-compassion. Additionally, I incorporate principles of non-violent communication to help clients better articulate their needs and build relationships rooted in authenticity and kindness.

Whether it’s finding balance between emotions and responsibilities, clarifying personal needs, or building relationships that truly reflect one’s essence, my goal is to help each person live a life that honors their uniqueness.

My personal journey has taught me that a fulfilling life is possible, even when it diverges from traditional paths. Through my work, I help my clients see that behind their sensitivity and uniqueness lies a precious light—a light the world deeply needs.

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  Alright, I’m going to open up a bit here, but truthfully, I enjoy doing so. As you may have guessed, my interest in difference and the art of relationships stems in part from the fact that it hasn’t always been easy for me. As a sick child, I spent a lot of time in the hospital. I always felt out of sync—I didn’t understand the adult world, but I didn’t relate to the world of children my age either. I truly felt like I was speaking a different language than most of the people around me.

  Over time, this sense of being different became more entrenched, and one day, things just fell apart. That’s when I discovered the gift of therapy—it finally felt like someone was handing me the manual for human relationships!

  Bit by bit, I practiced, and today, when I build new relationships, I take great joy in asking the other person for their “manual” and sharing mine with them. It often leads to some pretty amusing conversations!

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  I have a childlike spirit—something I discovered later in life! During my studies in philosophy and biology, I was convinced that success was measured by my social and intellectual ascent. Every future step seemed preordained: all I had to do was follow the well-trodden path leading to a doctorate.

  It wasn’t until I moved to Montreal in 2012 that I discovered success could take many forms and that mine didn’t have to be confined to an academic career, as long as my choices remained aligned with my values and needs.

  One day, while I was convinced I didn’t like children, I found myself in the forest, guiding a group of young people on a nature connection outing! Life truly has a way of surprising us! Since then, I’ve found immense joy in their presence. And, hush, don’t tell them, but I think they’re the real teachers: they teach me how to live in the present and embrace the joy of childhood!

  With them, I don’t need to hide—I can talk to the trees and sing to the birds. I love the simplicity of being in the spontaneity of the moment.

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  I have a bit of an adventurous, wanderer side that I truly love—it occasionally leads me into… let’s say, surprising and not always the most comfortable situations!

  Among the wilder moments of my life, there was the time I encountered a grizzly mother and her cubs deep in the Alaskan wilderness. Then there was the chase in Australia when I had the brilliant idea to imitate a kangaroo in an enclosure, only to be pursued by a horse.

  I also went through my acroyoga and slackline years, rubbing shoulders with the Cirque du Soleil community—a world that had been completely unfamiliar to me until then. And one of my greatest adventures was hitchhiking 2,400 km from Whitehorse to Whistler (note to self: not to be repeated!).

  Through these experiences, I certainly learned the importance of assessing risks and understanding my own limits. While there are definitely some adventures I wouldn’t repeat, I also deeply appreciate the openness that drives me to discover and explore new and unexpected paths. It helps me let go and realize that life can be different—and far more surprising—than anything my imagination could ever conjure.