MENTAL HEALTH BLOG
Timely and relevant information to inspire growth and wellbeing
Wisdom From Afar
Explore our 'Wisdom from Afar' guest blog collection, featuring diverse insights and expert perspectives on mental health, personal growth, and wellness. Discover thought-provoking articles and practical advice from leading professionals and passionate individuals. Join our community and stay informed with fresh, engaging content.
Unpacking Two-Spirit Identities
Decolonize mental health care by centering Two-Spirit identities. This guide explores providing affirmative, culturally grounded therapy for Two-Spirit clients, addressing barriers to inclusive care, and championing resilience.
From Inner Critic to Inner Ally
Self-compassion means treating yourself with kindness, and understanding that imperfections are part of the human experience. Learn how offering grace and a balanced perspective during life's challenges can reduce anxiety, boost resilience, and unlock inner peace. Discover practical tips for cultivating self-forgiveness and self-acceptance through writing, meditation, and more.
Unbottling Our Emotions
From a young age, we're conditioned some feelings are "good" while others are "bad" and should be suppressed. But rejecting parts of our emotional truth causes dysfunction. All emotions deserve to be felt and processed in a healthy way.
The Inside Out films present an opportunity to reflect on how we perceive our emotional landscapes. Inside Out 2 depicts new intense feelings overtaking Riley's mind, mirroring the upheaval of adolescence. These movies champion embracing emotional complexity rather than suppressing difficult feelings.
When we normalize the full "emotional rainbow," we cultivate greater resilience and self-acceptance...
The Weight of Worry
In everyday conversation, "OCD" is often tossed around without considering the profound impact it has on those living with the disorder. Using it to describe mundane habits trivializes the struggles of individuals dealing with intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours. This blog post focuses on perinatal OCD, aiming to dispel misconceptions and shed light on its significant impact on maternal mental health.
Dare to Whisper
It is in our closest and most intimate relationships that we come to deeply understand ourselves, our position and place in this world, our identities, dreams and desires. As therapists we are incredibly humbled and honoured to serve in the role of bearing witness…as women unpack their personal burdens and the systemic roadblocks that get in the way of peace and fulfillment. Often our experiences involve distress related to sexual health and intimacy.
From Labour to Liberation
Trauma, a complex phenomenon deeply embedded in human experience, manifests as the emotional aftermath of distressing events. Its impact varies widely among individuals, with some emerging unscathed while others bear enduring emotional scars. Trauma extends beyond individuals, affecting witnesses and those working closely with traumatized individuals. Navigating trauma's aftermath is a personal journey, with diverse pathways to healing.
Care in the Community Spotlight
Do you know about the recently installed windphone in the Driving Park located in Dundas, Ontario?
In this blog post, we talk about the rising awareness of windphones all over the world and the crucial importance they hold for helping individuals have a special place to process their grief and talk to loved ones who have passed on.
Reclaiming Resilience
In this insightful Q&A session about the Rewind Trauma Course, we delve into the potential game-changing impact of this therapeutic technique. Offering a glimpse into its evidence-based efficacy and the transformative results it promises in just a few sessions, the discussion unfolds as a narrative of empowerment and healing. As the Rewind Technique begins to make its mark in Canada, therapists have the chance to enhance their toolbox and provide clients with a swift, safe, and sustainable resolution to trauma, marking a significant turning point in the landscape of therapeutic interventions. This blog post encapsulates the excitement and potential surrounding the emergence of the Rewind Technique, shedding light on its role as a groundbreaking catalyst for positive change in trauma recovery.
Tend and Befriend: How to Nurture Adult Friendships
Explore the dynamic world of female friendships in our latest post, celebrating the magic of Galentine's Day and the stress-busting power of tend-and-befriend bonds. Travel the globe with us on February 14th, discovering diverse friendship celebrations and different friendship types. Need tips on making or rekindling connections? We've got you covered with practical advice for year-round celebrations. Uncover the hurdles friendships face and how therapists can be your guides in navigating challenges. Dive into our engaging post for a quick journey into the vibrant realm of friendships!
Caregivers Corner: A Spotlight on Our New Supportive Therapy Group
The role of caregiver is a complex, unpaid position that is often misunderstood and comes with some big emotions. Having a safe place to talk about our experiences, to learn from peers with similar challenges and to gain coping tools is important for our mental wellness. Caregivers know that burnout is a risk that comes with the responsibility of serving in this role. Learning prevention strategies for burnout can be one way to stay well in doing this work.
At Caregivers Corner we want to hear how you are doing and support you in moving through the stress, pressures and burnout so that you can get back to the things that matter most to you!
Unveiling the Magic Behind Therapy
Embarking on the journey of therapy is like setting sail into the uncharted waters of self-discovery. As you navigate the currents of your emotions, you may find yourself greeted by questions swirling in the sea of your thoughts. How does therapy work? What can I expect in that sacred space of healing? In this blog post, we'll embark on a voyage to unravel the mystique surrounding therapy, casting light on common questions that often accompany those ready to set sail on the transformative journey within.
Savour the Season: Comforting Winter Recipes for the Body and Mind
Embrace the winter wonderland with our curated collection of Winter Wellness Recipes, carefully crafted to nurture both body and mind. Discover the joy of seasonal ingredients and let the cozy aromas fill your kitchen with warmth. Whether you're a fan of comforting classics or looking to try something new, our Winter Wellness Recipes are here to elevate your culinary experience and contribute to a healthier, happier you throughout the chilly season. Join us in celebrating the magic of winter through nourishing and delicious creations that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
Festive Serenity
Unwrap the gift of self-care this holiday season with our stress-buster toolkit! 🎁✨ Prioritize your well-being, manage stress, and create moments of calm amidst the festive hustle. Because your mental health deserves to be on the top of the wish list.
Menopause & Mental Health
Menopause can be bittersweet 💔. It's a time to celebrate how far you have come but also a time of biological changes and loss. It's okay to feel the waves of emotion, acknowledge the shifts, and mourn the losses. Let's honour the journey of transformation with compassion and understanding.
Mindfulness and Menopause
Discover the transformative power of meditation and mindfulness during menopause in this new blog post. Explore practical techniques to navigate this life transition with calm and resilience. Elevate your well-being with mindful practices tailored for this unique journey.
Power Unleashed: Embracing Peri/Menopause Like a Boss
Q&A with Cree Lambeck, Clinical Director and owner of Cherry Tree Counselling & Psychotherapy Services. Discover empowerment in perimenopause and menopause with expert insights. Navigate the changes confidently and embrace your journey like a boss. Explore practical tips and expert advice for a powerful transition.
The Science of Seasonal Smiles
As the seasons change, so too can our emotional landscape.
The shifting colours of fall foliage or the onset of winter's chill not only alter our surroundings but can impact the delicate balance of our "happy hormones." Oxytocin, serotonin, endorphins, and dopamine play pivotal roles in our well-being, influencing our mood, energy, and sense of connection. Yet, as the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, these essential neurotransmitters can face challenges. The decrease in natural light, reduced outdoor activities, and shifts in our social interactions can lead to a decline in these vital chemicals, potentially ushering in feelings of isolation, lethargy, and low mood.
But fret not, for within the changing seasons lie opportunities for rejuvenation. In this blog post, we'll explore the fascinating interplay of these happy hormones and the transformative power of the seasons. We'll discuss the issues that arise with the changing weather, and, more importantly, unveil the solutions that can help you embrace each season with a renewed sense of joy and well-being.