Who we are

Cedar Song Centre for Wild Belonging is the primary vision and project of two women dedicated to nature connection and healing: Alaina Hallett and Stephanie Marchal. Alongside them is a community of therapists, parents, educators and professionals who see the impacts of disconnection from nature. All share a strong belief that having a dedicated land base for this kind of connection and healing work is not just valuable, it is essential.

Alaina Hallett is the Owner of Thriving Roots Wilderness School and Counselling Services, an organization that has been providing deep nature connection experiences for youth and adults in the Greater Victoria area since 2015. These services have provided deep purpose and healing for hundreds of youth and adults, reconnecting people to their land-based roots, connective culture and lineage. The organization is committed to reconciliation with local indigenous nations and is well supported by leadership of the Tsawout Nation in spreading land based culture and teachings.

Dr. Stéphanie Marchal is a registered clinical psychologist, working with adults, children and families, who is also trained in nature-based therapy and mindfulness. Stephanie is passionate about restoration and has been working on this property to limit invasive species, plant native species, and bring back wildlife habitat while offering food growing spaces for people.  As a psychologist, Stephanie has worked firsthand with the currently high levels of distress in youth, and seen the immense benefit that nature-based programs bring to the mental health of both youth and adults, and whole community groups. These programs benefit the people and in turn these people develop a deep care for the environment.