Category: Therapy

One of my favourite moments in therapy is when someone sits down and says, “I’ve been thinking about what you said last week. I was mad at first… but I get it now.” That’s a great moment of growth, and a big part of how therapy works. This is a core principle of psychotherapy: it’s […]

Read More… from AI Therapy Feels Good. Real Therapy Makes You Grow

Not very long ago, artificial intelligence was something from the sci-fi movies my family loved. But it suddenly seems like AI is everywhere, and promising to change everything about our lives, including mental health support. I understand why people are intrigued. An AI therapist is there whenever you need it; there’s no waiting room or […]

Read More… from AI Therapy Sounds Great. Here’s Why I’m Skeptical

In Pixar’s 2015 hit animated movie Inside Out, we watched Riley’s emotions-Joy, Sadness, Anger, and the gang-literally battle for control of her brain’s command center. One of my favourite scenes was when Riley’s emotions were all screaming at the control panel at once. That’s basically what happens when you’re outside your “window of tolerance.” Once […]

Read More… from What Happened When You Leave Your Window of Tolerance

After three decades as a therapist, I’ve heard a lot of stories from clients who are struggling with many different issues, but in the last year or so, there’s been something new. I’m now seeing people struggling with deep feelings of worry and dread about the state of the world. They’re often both exhausted and […]

Read More… from Living With Dread: When the World Feels Too Close

As a psychotherapist, I see many people entering the holidays emotionally exhausted from life’s demands, rather than looking forward to celebrating with family and friends. While this season is often associated with joy and connection, it can also intensify exhaustion and emotional overload. Some clients describe what they think is “just stress,” but on closer […]

Read More… from Coping With Burnout and the Holiday’s Season

A “bid for connection” is any small attempt one partner makes to get the other’s attention, support or affection. It might be a comment, a glance, a touch—anything that says, “I’m here. Are you here with me?” These moments may seem small, but research shows that how we respond to them matters a great deal. […]

Read More… from Couples therapy: What are bids for connection and why is it important to pay attention?

Do you apologize for everything? For speaking up in meetings? For taking the last slice of pizza? For existing in elevators? Do you say “sorry” when someone bumps into you? If that sounds familiar, it might be time to start taking up space in the world. “Taking up space” is a therapeutic concept that means […]

Read More… from The Positive Impact for Taking Up Space in the World

Teens face unique stressors including academic pressure, complex social dynamics, and the challenges of growing up in today’s fast-paced digital world. These factors can heighten anxiety and interfere with their ability to function and enjoy life. Many teens find it difficult to voice their feelings, making it hard for parents to know when help is […]

Read More… from Helping Teens Thrive: Self-Care for School Success

Does It Matter If My Therapist is Trauma Informed? By Kathy Netten Trauma is defined as an overwhelming experience or emotional shock. Natural disasters, war, accidents and crimes are examples of traumatic events. People can also develop trauma from exposure to common, harmful conditions such as: Abuse (physical, sexual, emotional) Neglect (physical and emotional) Living […]

Read More… from Does It Matter If My Therapist is Trauma Informed?