About · Coach, Author & Creator
Meet Kerisma Vere
Towards Wellness Coaching was born out of my own healing journey. What began as simply surviving some of the hardest seasons of my life has evolved into thriving — and a passion for helping others do the same.
Author of four books, guest on more than sixty podcasts, and a coach who has walked the road she now walks beside others on.
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My Story
From surviving to thriving
My journey has been shaped by both adversity and healing. I have navigated trauma, mental health struggles, and addiction — and what I carry forward from those seasons is the strength, resilience, and wisdom that come from recovery. Over the years, I've moved from surviving to thriving: from depression to well-being, from severe anxiety to calm, and from daily neglect to consistent, compassionate self-care.
This transformation didn't happen overnight. It has been a gradual process of rebuilding my relationship with myself — shifting from harsh criticism and unrealistic expectations toward compassion, discernment, and sustainable growth. Along the way, I have combined over sixteen years of freedom from active addiction, and I continue to honour my well-being through slow, steady, and balanced approaches to health, fitness, and daily life.
Writing and coaching have become the ways I transform experiences I once thought of as nightmares into reflections of resilience, creativity, and courage. Seeing these qualities emerge in myself taught me to recognize them in others. Learning how to honour my own humanity gave me a deep regard for my fellow human beings.
Professional Background
Lived experience, backed by real training
Alongside lived experience, I bring a strong foundation of education and training — threads that weave together into a grounded, trauma-informed, compassionate, value-based approach.
Education
A college education comprised of psychology, counselling, and health management.
Certifications
Four current certifications from the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA):
- Certified Personal Trainer
- Certified Nutritionist
- Corrective Exercise Specialist
- Specialist in Strength & Conditioning
Plus a nutrition certification from Douglas College. Certificates available on request.
Modalities
Training in CBT and DBT, with extensive personal experience in compassion-focused therapies and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Leadership
Five years as president of a union local — leadership, conflict resolution, negotiation, and team-building. These experiences taught me how to advocate, build consensus, and hold space for others with fairness and respect.
Author & Voice
Four published books — including The Light Switch Myth — with 139+ four-to-five-star ratings across Goodreads and Amazon, and guest appearances on more than sixty podcasts.
My background is further supported by 35 years of personal counselling and the opportunity to work one-on-one with some incredible coaches — plus innumerable workshops, courses, podcasts, and books that have shaped my knowledge and approach.
Why I Do This Work
Paying it forward
I have been fortunate to receive good help along my own path. This work is my way of paying it forward — holding space without judgment and supporting others as they take their own small but powerful steps along the road to thriving.
Towards Wellness Coaching allows me to share my genuine self — a heart that deeply cares for others who are also striving to create real, lasting change in their lives. The Towards Wellness Support Group on Facebook was created in the same spirit: a no-sales, safe space for encouragement and connection. It exists purely for support, not promotion.
I also believe this work is part of something larger happening in the world. More and more compassionate, trauma-informed helpers are stepping forward, paving the way for people to be supported with greater care, understanding, and dignity. We may not always silence the darkness, but we can always be part of the beacons of light.
To all the brave souls who have worked with me — past and future — thank you for trusting me with pieces of your journey. It is always an honour.
Where To Next
Two good places to start
The Philosophy
My Approach
Change without pressure or perfection — see how the Light Switch Myth model works, and whether it fits you.
Explore the approachWork With Me
1:1 Coaching
Packages, rates and sliding-scale options — every coaching relationship begins with a free intake session.
View packagesLet's take the first step together
Every coaching relationship begins with a free intake session — space to talk, feel things out, and see whether this is right for you. No pressure, no commitment.
Not sure, or can't find a time that fits? Contact me