Deciphering 5 Cognitive Puzzles: Recognizing When It’s Time to Consult a Psychologist In the fast-paced realm of contemporary existence, many of us encounter cognitive challenges that can sometimes go unnoticed. These challenges may manifest as difficulties in maintaining focus, an increase in the time required to complete tasks, grappling with intrusive thoughts, or even losing…
As of 2023, Indigenous youth in Toronto continue to grapple with a complex interplay of mental health issues, significantly influenced by historical trauma, systemic inequities, and ongoing challenges in accessing culturally appropriate care. The legacies of colonization, residential schools, and cultural dislocation have left profound impacts, contributing to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and substance…
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…
The importance of mental well-being cannot be emphasized enough, especially for our young ones. With the stresses of modern life and the challenges the younger generation faces, psychotherapy, and particularly art therapy, emerges as a beacon of hope. What is Art Therapy? Before diving into the specifics, let’s clarify what art therapy entails. It is…
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…
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…
International students face a range of challenges when they first arrive in Canada, especially in a bustling city like Toronto. Some of the common difficulties they might encounter include: Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to a new culture can be overwhelming. Differences in language, customs, social norms, and even weather can create a sense of isolation and…
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based model of therapy that aims to teach people new skills and strategies that can enable them into creating fulfilling lives.1 What is DBT? Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT). DBT is designed to help manage emotional dysregulation, increased distress tolerance, and improve…
You’ve probably heard the saying, “It’s okay to not be okay.” But what does this mean? It’s important and normal to experience negative emotions – being vulnerable and feeling all the feelings. Going through the waves of different emotions and overcoming feelings of sadness, anger, anxiety, etc., helps us to recognize and regulate…
Starting therapy at a young age in the face, specially when the child has experienced a traumatic event, is important for several reasons: Early intervention and prevention: Trauma, particularly when experienced during childhood, can have long-lasting effects on a person’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being. By starting therapy early, it is possible to intervene and…