Maureen Brine

A Lifelong Commitment and Passion for Helping Others

Your journey toward healing is important to me, and with my extensive expertise and depth of experience, I am here to support you every step of the way. Together, we will explore the challenges you face, using the principles of Imago Therapy to cultivate healthier relationships and create a brighter future. You are not alone; with my guidance, you can feel confident that meaningful change and lasting recovery are within reach.

With over 35 years in the psychotherapy and addictions field, I have dedicated my career to the principles of Imago Relationship Therapy, which serves as the foundation for all my work. My journey includes significant roles, such as serving as a former Director at the Donwood Institute in Toronto. Through this lens, I have developed a deep understanding of how relationships influence addiction, recovery, and family dynamics, allowing me to support countless individuals, families, and organizations effectively.

As a cornerstone of Intervention Canada since its inception, I have gained extensive experience in hundreds of interventions, earning respect as a specialist in the field of addictions. This experience has reinforced my belief in the power of connection and communication in healing.

As an Advanced Imago Relationship Therapist and International Addictions Specialist, I have been helping individuals and families since 1985 in both Vancouver and Toronto. Beyond my credentials, I also work as an educator and couples therapist, infusing warmth and empathy into this vital work. I understand that seeking help can be a vulnerable experience, and I want you to feel assured that you are in capable hands. My expertise is sought after globally; I frequently share my knowledge as a speaker, workshop presenter, and trainer. The principles of Imago Relationship Therapy guide my approach, allowing me to draw upon proven techniques that foster understanding and connection among family members.

The Family Connection

As a relationship therapist, I find myself immersed in the complexities of human connections every day. My work spans a wide spectrum, addressing not only families affected by addiction but also families in general. Each family brings its own unique dynamics, struggles, and strengths, and my goal is to help them navigate these intricacies.

In my sessions, I encourage families to explore the roles each member plays within their unit. Often, these roles are deeply ingrained and can lead to patterns of behavior that either support or hinder healthy relationships. By shining a light on these dynamics, I help families gain insight into how their interactions shape their experiences and emotional well-being.

My intention is to create a safe space where open communication can flourish. I believe that improved relationships start with understanding—understanding ourselves, our loved ones, and the ways we relate to one another. I guide families through discussions that allow them to express their feelings, share their perspectives, and listen to each other without judgment.

In working with families impacted by addiction, I focus on the unique challenges they face. Addiction can create a cycle of dysfunction that affects trust, communication, and emotional support. By addressing these issues head-on, I help families break free from harmful patterns and build a healthier foundation for recovery.

For families in general, my approach is similar but tailored to their specific needs. Whether they are dealing with conflicts, transitions, or simply seeking to strengthen their bonds, I provide tools and strategies that foster connection and resilience.

Ultimately, my aim is to empower families to create more fulfilling relationships. I want them to leave our Imago-based sessions with renewed hope, equipped with the skills to navigate their challenges together. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness families transform through this process, finding new ways to connect and support one another on their journey toward healing and growth.

Interventions: A Gift of Love

Interventions are a “gift of love”—a guided heart-to-heart conversation that can open the door to recovery for everyone involved. This compassionate approach ensures that every family member feels valued and heard, fostering a supportive environment for healing.

As I sit across from my clients, I often reflect on the journey that has brought me here as an addictions counsellor. My life has been a study of the intricate web that family dynamics weave around addiction. Growing up as the child of an alcoholic, I learned early on how deeply our family ties can influence our struggles and our paths to recovery.

In my practice, I emphasize the importance of involving the whole family in the healing process. I’ve seen firsthand how addiction doesn’t just affect the individual; it ripples through every member, creating a cycle of pain and dysfunction. That’s why I firmly believe that interventions are essential. They don’t just provide a lifeline to the person battling addiction; they offer a chance for every family member to find their footing and begin their own healing journey.

Each session, I witness transformative moments—when a parent realizes their role in the cycle, when a sibling understands their impact, or when a loved one takes the brave step to speak their truth. These moments remind me of my own experiences and fuel my passion for this work. I know that when families come together in these interventions, they can create lasting change, not just for the individual struggling with addiction but for everyone involved. It’s a powerful reminder that recovery is not just a solitary path; it’s a journey best traveled together.