Registered Psychotherapist, Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology 1994
Social isolation can occur for a variety of reasons; with the pandemic an aspect of this has been forced on us; sometimes it happens after a difficult experience; one where he felt it affected our sense of self or identity. It can leave a indelible mark on us. It involves going out again, taking some risks; otherwise we don't give ourselves the opportunity for a new experience. Also see resources for Shame. Shame can be incapacitating if not addressed as it thrives on secrecy.
Extremely prevalent now more than ever due to lockdowns/the pandemic, social isolation can have detrimental consequences on all aspects of one’s life. Let’s work together in reintegrating you back into society in a compassionate and gentle way.
Naturally humans are social creatures yet social relationships and interactions, for many people, can be a source of discomfort and pain. There's a huge difference between taking time to be alone and feeling isolated - when we chose to spend time alone we find joy and comfort in this. When we're isolated, we either feel we have no one to turn to, we might get the feeling that nobody cares about us, or going out or spending time around others might cause us great levels of stress, worry, or fear.
In a modern and post-pandemic world, social isolation is becoming more and more common. While it can be a side effect of the fast paced life style and shift to virtual work, social isolation is often a symptom of another mental health condition and an attempt to find relief from it. For example, people who have experienced a traumatic event might choose to self-isolate to protect themselves, or someone who is experiencing depression might self-isolate because they have lost joy in social interactions.
Our therapists can help you get to the root of what is causing the desire to isolate socially and can provide you with evidence-based support to heal and create a meaningful and fulfilling social life.
Contact us today for a complimentary 15-minute consultation with our therapists. During this call you can ask any questions that you might have and learn how we might be able to help!
This pandemic had forced us to isolate for so long! No wonder we feel socially isolated! This pandemic has brought to light the weaknesses of our support systems, has created distances between people that seem unsurmountable. Through therapy I can help you share your feelings and help you nurture old and new relationships. I will help you find solutions to any barriers or difficulties - whether there are internal or external - that may be keeping you from having a satisfying social life.
All our therapists can work with you around social isolation and building connections in the world to help sustain your wellbeing. Contact our Intake Worker to help determine who will be the best fit for you.
Feeling alone? Depressed? Lonely? In my practice, I offer a space in which you can talk about deep feelings of social isolation and what it means to be alone. Through the therapeutic relationship we can work towards healing.
A felt sense of belonging and of feeling connected to others is a key component of overall psycho-emotional well-being and health. We will work together to understand areas of loneliness, difficulties being alone with oneself (while still feeling connected to others) and factors that contribute to a sense of feeling disconnected from individual and community relationships and supports.
Everyday we battle with messages that tell us how we should be and lead to feelings of shame and self-doubt. My style is direct and genuinely non-judgemental environment so you can feel safe to explore your feelings why they are presenting and build a new path forward through acceptance and change.
I provide support, understanding, and a solution-focused approach to the treatment of loneliness and isolation. Studies have shown that social isolation and loneliness have a major impact on our physical and psychological wellbeing including increased rates of heart disease, depression, anxiety, and decreased immune function. Collaboratively we will find ways to increase meaningful social connection, as well as increase self-confidence and self worth. Using a behavioral and acceptance based approach, we will work toward improving symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as overall functioning, and uncovering the deeper roots of loneliness to assist you with engaging more fully with yourself and others.
*Welcoming new clients for immediate booking* What does feeling 'connected' mean to you? Together, let's explore how loneliness affects you and create a plan for getting you back on your path to connection today. Perhaps you're feeling isolated after moving countries or after a relationship breakdown, or you're no longer feeling close with your partner, family, or your friends. Perhaps you are part of a group, but never really feel 'part' of that group. Or maybe you are finding that your role as a new parent or caregiver is more isolating than you ever imagined. Social interaction is a part of life and it's human nature to crave companionship and connection. If you're feeling lonely and isolated or feel like you have no one to talk to, I am here for you. I can help.
30 Years Experience
