Stress is a familiar yet complex phenomenon that affects our lives in myriad ways. Our bodies perceive stress through a network of brain receptors which react to external and internal stimuli. When stressed, our brain’s hypothalamus signals adrenal glands to release cortisol and adrenaline—hormones that prepare our body to respond to the perceived threat. This […]
Many parents, who have teenagers, often encounter power struggles with their teenager. Typically the power struggle occurs because the teenager disagrees with the limits their parents are setting. Many parents get frustrated by the power struggles, but teenagers at times enjoy the power struggle. If they get their parents into an argument most parents forget […]
Grief Therapy for Indigenous Peoples The history of First Nations in Canada is marked by layers of intergenerational trauma, stemming from centuries of colonization, forced assimilation, and systemic injustices. This trauma is not just a relic of the past but continues to affect new generations through psychological, social, and cultural channels. The emotional reactions […]
Each year, Canada welcomes a significant number of refugees, contributing to its multicultural society. Among these newcomers, a considerable portion are children, with estimates suggesting that around 20% of the refugee population comprises minors. These children come from diverse backgrounds, often fleeing their home countries due to war, violence, persecution, or natural disasters. The Impact […]
….Even though break-ups are one of the hardest things to do and saying goodbye is often one of the most dreaded things by Humans, in some cases it is often for the best and here are 10 ways to go through a break-up in a healthy wholesome way without becoming bitter, broken and scarred for the […]
In my practice, both online and in Victoria, I’ve guided numerous individuals through the maze of anxiety. Drawing from personal experience and professional insights, I’ve unraveled anxiety as a manifestation of fear deeply rooted in our subconscious. Often stemming from unresolved past events or emotional encounters, it breeds beliefs of inadequacy or unworthiness, hindering our […]
The journey through grief is a profound and complex process, significantly more so for children and adolescents who face the death of a loved one. This blog explores the multifaceted nature of grief within the developmental stages of young individuals, the therapeutic avenues available, including art therapy and psychotherapy, and the concept of “good grief.” […]
What is the Prevalence of Divorce in Canada? Divorce and separation have become increasingly common phenomena in Canadian society, reflecting changes in social norms, values, and legal frameworks regarding marriage and family life. These changes have profound implications not just for the individuals directly involved but also for their children, whose experiences and perceptions of […]
Navigating Complex Extended Family Problems with Dr. Karen Rippy Dealing with extended family issues can be a complex and challenging journey. It often involves a mix of personalities, expectations, and cultural differences, making the family dynamics intricate. However, there’s hope in effectively managing these relationships with the right guidance and support. Understanding Family Dynamics: Recognizing […]
The heart can take and transform anything – think about it… what we are on the level of our heart has the ability to clean, refine and reconfigure us into what we were meant to be; real humans – beings of love.Imagine that you were able to be love in the face of anything. That […]
