The Meaning Behind AASRA

At AASRA Wellness, our name tells a story of what we hope every person experiences when they walk through our doors.

Pronounced: AAHS-rah

Support

Refuge or shelter

Comfort

A source of hope

Someone to lean on

ਆਸਰਾ (Aasra)

A place of refuge, shelter, and emotional safety. Open to All.
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‍Aasra means support, refuge, or a place to turn in times of difficulty. It is a word with deep cultural and spiritual significance for many people.

Aasra speaks to the feeling of having somewhere you can simply be—without judgment, without pressure, and without having to carry everything alone. It is a reminder that healing begins when we feel safe enough to be seen.

We chose this name with humility to reflect the kind of counselling experience we strive to provide: a safe, compassionate, and respectful space where people feel supported as they work toward healing.

Your child leads. The therapist follows.

Sessions are initially non-directive. Your child chooses what to play. That sense of control is itself therapeutic — particularly for children who have experienced situations where they had none. Sand trays, art, and figures give children a way to externalise what's happening inside.

You are an active part of your child's progress.

Your therapist keeps you informed of themes arising in sessions and offers guidance on how to respond at home. Progress happens at your child's pace — no rushing, no pressure to perform or open up. The therapist's role is to create the right conditions and trust the process.

Parenting support alongside sessions.

Dedicated parenting support is available throughout. If your child was in a motor vehicle accident or affected by a violent crime, their sessions may be fully funded through ICBC or CVAP. Aasra Wellness is one of the few clinics in BC providing this. We handle everything.