How can art therapy help with childhood trauma?   Art therapy has emerged as a valuable tool in addressing the mental health consequences of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), including trauma. The approach is grounded in the understanding that adversities in childhood can lead to multiple mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress, depression, psychoses, and dissociative…

What are the common rising issues among couples with children according to researchers? Researchers have identified several common issues that tend to arise among couples with children. These challenges can strain relationships due to the increased responsibilities, stress, and shifts in priorities that accompany parenthood. Some of these issues include: **Division of Labor**: Couples often…

Why is receiving early mental health interventions important for Canadian youth?   According to Statistics Canada, in 2021, individuals aged 15-24 (youth) made up about 12% of the Canadian population. Addressing the mental health issues of young adults is crucial for several reasons, as this stage of life is a critical period for personal, social,…

In the ever-evolving field of psychology, the understanding of trauma and its profound effects on human health and behavior has undergone significant transformations. The inclusion of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (3rd Ed.) in 1980 was a pivotal moment, recognizing the severe impact that harrowing experiences, such…

How does psychotherapy help reduce anxiety in 2023? Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), has been shown to be an effective intervention for anxiety disorders. One of the core mechanisms by which CBT achieves this is by helping patients identify, challenge, and change distorted thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to their anxiety. CBT provides patients…

Cancer. The mere mention of the word sends shivers down the spine, a stark reminder of the fragility of life. When a cancer diagnosis shatters your world, hope becomes your lifeline. In this blog, we explore the power of belief and the potential for healing, even in the face of the most formidable adversary –…

PTSD is a common and sometimes debilitating mental health condition. Unfortunately, because of the many myths surrounding it, some people don’t get the help they need. Learn why these common myths are false. After a traumatic event such as abuse, a natural disaster, war, or accident, people may experience Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a mental…

Absolutely… NOT… I am not perfect; I am not infallible, unflappable or stoic; I lack confidence and have fragile self-esteem; I am indecisive and can procrastinate as much, if not more than anyone else; I am not always calm, carefree, and happy; I do not have a life which is free from stress, anxiety or…

Setting boundaries is an essential part of maintaining healthy relationships and ensuring our needs are met. As a therapist, I often encounter individuals who struggle with this aspect of their personal and emotional lives. This struggle can lead to feelings of being taken advantage of, disrespected, or even abused. However, it’s crucial to understand that…