Hey, I’m Theresa

Theresa Rybchinski, Somatic Therapist, Calgary, Alberta. A woman standing barefoot on a rock, looking at distant mountains during sunset with green forest around.

Professionally, I am a social worker, therapist and somatic practitioner working from a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive lens, blending somatic psychology (somatic experiencing and sensorimotor psychotherapy), internal family systems, polyvagal theory and attachment theory.

Thank you for being here; I want to acknowledge the courage it takes to search for support, especially if your world feels dark right now. 

Secondly, although I cannot name names, I want to give gratitude to those who have supported me through the years. I deeply value community and connection. I couldn’t have made it here without my community, mentors, and teachers.  

In-Person Somatic Therapy for Adults in Calgary and Virtual Therapy Across Alberta

My Guiding Principles

Authenticity: I show up as a real human first, not a perfect therapist. I believe healing happens when we can drop the masks and be honest about what hurts, what feels stuck, and what we truly long for.

Safety: Healing happens when we feel safe. My role is to create a steady, grounded presence where your body and nervous system can start to exhale. Safety isn’t about forcing change. It’s about having a place where you can explore at your own pace, knowing you’ll be met with care, respect, and attunement.

Connection: We are wired for connection, yet so many of us feel isolated or unseen. In our work together, you’ll have a space to be witnessed, heard and supported, while also exploring how connection to self, others, and even nature can bring profound healing.

Curiosity: Together, we’ll approach your struggles with openness and compassion, asking not “what’s wrong with me?” but “what is my mind and body trying to show me?” Curiosity creates space for change without judgment, and it invites new possibilities for growth.

Some facts about my career & education

I hold a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work, specializing in Addiction and Mental Health and am a Registered Social Worker with the Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW).

Previously, I studied Kinesiology and Health Promotion at the University of Calgary.

I am also a certified yoga teacher. I have accumulated numerous trainings and workshops in Trauma-Sensitive Yoga, Meditation, and mindfulness over the years.

I am a trained Sensorimotor Psychotherapist, a form of Somatic Therapy.

With my training, I consider myself a body-centred therapist, and I weave all of this knowledge and experience into my sessions with you.

Additionally, I have experience working in the healthcare profession, including working in the field of trauma and addiction at wilderness addiction treatment centers, inpatient and outpatient addiction centers, harm reduction programs and Indigenous mental health programs that support folks who have experienced various forms of trauma.

Understanding How I Approach Client-Centered Work: An Interview on My Approach to Healing

Learn more about who I am, how I got here and most importantly how I work with clients.

In this interview, I delve into the profound effects of trauma and stress on mental health and wellbeing. I share insights into my holistic and body-centered therapy practices, which aim to help individuals navigate their healing journeys.

Theresa Rybchinski, Somatic Therapist, Calgary, AB. Woman standing on a fallen tree trunk in the middle of a birch tree forest

I’m passionate about this work because, like you, I have overcome my own struggles and continue to constantly navigate the real human experiences and realities of life.

I've faced seasons that drained my energy, strained relationships, and challenged my direction. Supporting a loved one with addiction revealed resilience and pain. Through burnout, I learned true self-care. I know what it's like to appear strong while feeling overwhelmed inside—unlearning perfectionism, slowing down, and embracing parts of myself once ignored. These struggles shaped me, but don’t define me. Similar to me, you’re more than your challenges, even if it's hard to see. For me, peace comes from nature—climbing, hiking, exploring, or sharing meaningful moments. I’m here to help you find your own joy and peace. You don’t have to face this alone.

I believe healing doesn’t have to look one way. It’s not about “fixing” yourself — it’s about coming back to who you really are underneath the noise. That’s the heart of how I work, and what I hope to offer you.

If you’re ready, lets work together!