by Chris Straface, LPC on December 7, 2023 Trauma. This word is used a lot. It has become a common word heard in television, movies, and to describe interactions or occurrences that are stressful. While trauma is a presentation of stress, it is more than that. Like many buzzwords, the word “trauma” is often overused. …
Why do immigrant women would benefit from psychotherapy? Immigrant women in Canada represent a diverse mosaic of cultures, each bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to the fabric of Canadian society. Despite the opportunities and promises that migration offers, these women often face multifaceted challenges that can significantly impact their mental well-being. Their journey…
What is Grief? Grief is a complex emotional response to loss, often profound and deeply personal. It encompasses a range of feelings from deep sadness to anger, and the process varies greatly from one individual to another. Grief can follow the loss of a loved one, the end of a significant relationship, or other major…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
What are the mental health issues of indigenous people in Canada? Indigenous mental health issues in Canada have been a significant concern for many years. Indigenous peoples in Canada, including First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, experience disproportionately high rates of mental health challenges compared to the general population. These issues are rooted in a…