"I was born in Finland (the country in northern Europe famous for cell phones). Now I live in Canada (the country in North America famous for maple syrup). When I present at international conferences, people can read on my name tag that I am Heidi Ahonen from Canada. Yet, do I feel Canadian—where is the Finn in me? Even though it may not be the most creative way to solve an identity crisis, I introduce myself as a Finnish-Canadian. We can travel to the other side of the world, move our furniture in a container, build a new life, and yet, part of us will always be the same—but yet not the same. Just as my experiences in these two northern countries have changed my identity for good, we all form our identity in our first group experience, and then our next group experiences will change that identity. "

"We learn only by doing. I have learned my greatest lessons through mistakes made in the moment. Therapists should never consider themselves to be complete in their understanding of the therapeutic process. I will continue to learn and make mistakes as long as I live in the work. Heidi Ahonen, 2007"

"As therapists, we cannot emulate the style and philosophy of others. We cannot learn by reading alone. We learn by doing. This is a lifetime journey. I am not there yet. I still have to travel. In the future, I may change many of my concepts and disagree with myself, and— hopefully—learn more. Heidi Ahonen, 2007"

"Music sounds as feelings feel.... When choosing music, for example for a depressed client, it should sound as their feelings feel"