In the realm of mental health, few patterns of thought can be as pervasive and detrimental as black and white thinking. This cognitive distortion, also known as all-or-nothing thinking, is a tendency to perceive situations, people, or oneself in extreme, everything is either all good or all bad, with no room for nuance or grey areas. Such thinking can often leads to increased stress, anxiety, and unrealistic expectations. Understanding Black and White Thinking Black and white thinking can manifest in various aspects of life, from relationships and work to self-perception. Consider the followin ..read more

Many people come to therapy in hopes of working on communications skills, this can be both in individual therapy and in couples therapy. Emotions can run high during times of distress, and it's often those closest to us who bear the brunt of our upset feelings. Communicating effectively with loved ones when we're in a state of emotional turmoil is crucial, not just for our relationships, but for our own mental health. Here are some ways to help you express yourself without causing miscommunication.   Step Back and Breathe Before you approach your loved one, take a moment to breathe deeply ..read more

Couples therapy, once silenced and stigmatized, is increasingly becoming a proactive choice for many partners seeking to strengthen their relationship. While utilizing Emotion Focused Therapy, we focus on, explore, and mend the negative cycle couples get stuck in. The decision to pursue couples therapy is often rooted in a variety of factors, all stemming from a desire to improve communication, deepen understanding, and foster a more fulfilling connection.   1. Enhancing Communication Effective communication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. Couples therapy provides a struct ..read more

Numerous approaches aim to alleviate suffering and promote healing. One such method, that has been highly researched, is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. For those grappling with past traumas or distressing memories, EMDR offers a unique pathway towards resolution and recovery. But what exactly sets EMDR apart, and why might someone choose this form of therapy?   Firstly, we must understand what EMDR therapy is. EMDR therapy was developed by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, stemming from her own observations regarding the natural healing pr ..read more

Whether facing everyday stressors, coping with trauma, or managing mental health conditions, individual therapy offers a personalized approach to healing and growth. Here we'll delve into the benefits of individual therapy, exploring both in-person and telehealth options for those seeking support.   The Power of Individual Therapy Individual therapy provides a confidential and supportive space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with a neutral party. Unlike other forms of support, individual therapy is tailored to each person's unique needs, allowing for a m ..read more

In the realm of mental health, addiction stands as a challenging opponent, affecting millions worldwide regardless of age, gender, or background. Yet, despite its prevalence, addiction remains shrouded in misconceptions and stigma. Let’s  aim to shed light on the multifaceted nature of addiction, offering insights into its underlying mechanisms, common misconceptions, and avenues for recovery.   What is Addiction? Boiled down, addiction is a complex and chronic brain disorder characterized by compulsive behaviours, despite harmful consequences. It surpasses mere physical dependence ..read more

The decision to have children is one of the most significant choices many people will face in their lives. It's a decision that's deeply personal, influenced by a multitude of factors ranging from practical considerations to emotional needs. Navigating this parenthood puzzle requires introspection, open communication, and careful consideration of both the joys and challenges that come with raising children. These are some facets of the parenthood decision making process to start the discussion on this complex choice. Understanding Your Motivations Before diving into the decision-making process ..read more

Embarking on a new career path can be both exhilarating and terrifying. Whether you're switching industries, advancing your career, or starting fresh in a new role, navigating this transition requires careful planning and resilience. Embrace a Growth Mindset: Transitioning to a new job or career path often involves stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing unfamiliar territory. Balancing your mindset with optimism and reality can create realistic expectations. Instead of viewing challenges as obstacles, see them as opportunities for learning and growth. Remind yourself that it's okay to ..read more

In an increasingly interconnected world, love knows no boundaries, including race, ethnicity, or cultural background. Interracial dating and relationships have become more common and accepted, yet they still come with their own unique set of challenges and experiences. Navigating the complexities of interracial relationships requires empathy, open communication, and a willingness to confront issues of race and identity. In this blog post, we'll explore the dynamics of interracial dating and relationships from a mental health perspective, offering insights and strategies for building healthy an ..read more

In today's fast-paced world, it's not uncommon for someone to turn to alcohol as a means of relaxation or stress relief as it is deemed as socially acceptable and normal. However, it's essential to be mindful of our alcohol consumption and recognize when it may be crossing the line from social enjoyment to potentially harmful behavior. There are many factors we want to consider when looking at drinking from a trauma informed lens. These factors include intergenerational factors, life contexts, family history, coping tools, and social factors. As this is not an extensive list, here are some fac ..read more