Question 1

What is lifestyle medicine, and how is it different from conventional care?

Accepted Answer

Lifestyle medicine is an umbrella term that refers to an evidence-based approach focused on
using daily lifestyle habits as a primary tool for preventing, managing, and even reversing
chronic disease. Rather than relying solely on medication or crisis-based interventions, lifestyle
medicine empowers individuals to make sustainable changes in areas such as nutrition, physical
activity, sleep, stress management, and social connection.

Conventional care often focuses on symptom management, whereas lifestyle medicine
addresses the root causes of illness. It blends science with personal empowerment—helping
people build the daily practices that support long-term mental and physical well-being.

Question 2

What services are presently available?

Accepted Answer

We are currently offering the following:

• Mindfulness Group Class – led by Dr. Owen Garrett (in person)
• Individual Coaching, Culinary, and Exercise Sessions – offered by Shirley Garrett (in
person or virtual)
• Group Education Program: Understanding Trauma – a 6-session series facilitated by Dr.
Sundeep Thinda (in person)

All educational sessions are currently held at our South Surrey / White Rock location. Individual
sessions may be conducted virtually or in person, depending on your preference and service
type.

We plan to expand offerings as more professionals join our team. You can always check the
Services & Programs page for the most up-to-date list.

Question 3

Are your services covered by insurance or extended health plans?

Accepted Answer

All of our offerings are fee-for-service. We do not bill or coordinate with third-party insurers.
However, we aim to keep our services affordable and accessible.

Current Rates:

• $100 per session for any individual coaching, exercise, or culinary sessions with Shirley
Garrett

• Educational group sessions (e.g., Mindfulness and Trauma) are structured as six-part
series, with each part building on the last. Once you’ve completed sessions 1 through 6,
you’ve completed that program.

Question 4

Are sessions in person or online?

Accepted Answer

Both! Individual sessions with Shirley Garrett can be conducted virtually or in person, depending
on your preference.

Educational group sessions (e.g., mindfulness, trauma education) are currently in person only,
hosted in South Surrey / White Rock.

Question 5

Do I need a diagnosis or referral to participate?

Accepted Answer

No referral is needed. Our services are open to adults who want to take charge of their health—
whether you’re managing a chronic condition, navigating stress, or simply want to feel better
and build healthier routines.

Question 6

Can I participate if I live outside of BC?

Accepted Answer

Yes—many of our one-on-one services are available virtually, so we can work with clients
across Canada and internationally.

Question 7

How do I book a session?

Accepted Answer

You can browse our offerings and choose the right fit by visiting our Services & Programs page.
From there, click “Book a Session” or reach out through our Contact Us page if you have
questions.

Frequently Asked Questions