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Unlocking negative thought patterns

By Graham Watt

anxiety

counselling mental health obsessive compulsive disorder CBT Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Posted: December 5, 2024

Perhaps you have thought patterns that circulate in your mind. Thoughts like: You feel like something "always" happens to you, or "never" happens to you. You jump to the worst possible conclusion in any situation. You put pressure on yourself with statements like "I should" or "I shouldn't". You take everything personally or blame yourself without a logical reason. These thoughts and others like them feel impossible to shake and leave you feeling stuck in them. You wonder what it would be like to not have these types of thoughts circulating repeatedly in your life.

The gift of validation

By David McCallum

seasons

Enjoying Life Grief internal family systems mental health Relationships trauma holidays self compassion

Posted: December 1, 2024

The Gift of Validation What are you noticing within your system as we approach the holiday season? Perhaps there is some anticipation of extended time and space to more intentionally relax and connect with loved ones. There may also be some trepidation about what those relational dynamics may look and feel like. Grief in its many forms can manifest as well. Whatever you notice, before, during and after the season, know that all of it is welcome. You do not have to feel a certain way around the holidays, even though there may be expectations (familial and societal) to do so. You have a choice.

Helping Parts to Heal from Acute Trauma

By David McCallum

Trauma

connection Enjoying Life mental health internal family systems ptsd EMDR

Posted: November 1, 2024

When approaching trauma, it is important to understand that there are different types that require different treatments. Traumas must be addressed according to their specific needs. In your lifetime, you may have experienced what is called a single incident or acute trauma. Examples of these include car accidents, assault, sudden death of loved ones and acute medical illness. If this is the case, take a moment to recall some of the symptoms that were cued within you amidst that time.

Managing Stress

By Graham Watt

stress

wisdom of your body Managing Stress mental health stigma

Posted: October 4, 2024

Gabor Mate, in his book, When the Body says No: the cost of hidden stress, writes, "“The research literature has identified three factors that universally lead to stress: uncertainty, the lack of information and the loss of control.” This book looks at the role of stress in one's body - how stress affects people.

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