MENTAL HEALTH BLOG
Timely and relevant information to inspire growth and wellbeing
Navigating the Holidays with a Heavy Heart
Discover compassionate strategies for coping with grief during the holidays in our latest blog post. Explore practical tips for honouring loved ones, self-care practices, and ways to find joy amidst sorrow. Learn how to navigate your emotions and prioritize your well-being this season. If you need support, find a therapist through our new matching tool or book a session via the Jane App. You’re not alone on this journey.
SAD and the Seasons
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons, typically occurring during the fall and winter months. SAD is characterized by symptoms such as low energy, mood changes, and sleep problems. Western medical perspectives attribute SAD to reduced sunlight exposure, which can disrupt circadian rhythms and decrease serotonin levels. Common treatments include light therapy, medication, and psychotherapy.
While Western medicine offers various treatments for SAD, exploring diverse cultural perspectives on seasonal changes can provide valuable insights into managing this condition. Indigenous cultures, with their deep connection to nature and seasonal cycles, offer a unique and holistic approach to understanding and adapting to seasonal shifts.
Candid Cherry Tree Chats
Dive into an authentic and heartwarming conversation between two therapists at different stages of their journey! In our latest video blog post, Intern Therapist Ramann Patara sits down with Lauren Anastasi, who's recently transitioned from intern to associate therapist at Cherry Tree Counselling.
Watch as they candidly discuss their evolving perspectives, sharing insights on their therapeutic approaches, and personal growth.
This genuine exchange offers a unique glimpse into the professional development of therapists, from internship to associate status.
Navigating Menopause Through A Holistic Approach
Discover how massage therapy can naturally alleviate menopause symptoms. Learn about the benefits of massage for hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and stress relief during menopause. Explore different massage techniques and find out how to incorporate this holistic approach into your menopause management plan for improved well-being.
Meet Your Menopause Monster
Menopause is a profound transition, and for many women, it can feel like a rollercoaster of emotions—especially when the “menopause monster” makes its dramatic entrance. You know the feeling: that sudden surge of anger or frustration that seems to come out of nowhere, leaving you wondering, “Where did that come from?”
Giving Thanks, Listening & Learning
As the crisp autumn air settles in and leaves begin to fall, it's a time when many of us pause to reflect on gratitude-what we have, what we're thankful for, and how we can honour those who came before us.
Candid Cherry Tree Chats
Clinical Director Cree Lambeck introduces and interviews new team member and Art Therapist Rebecca Harper about what Art Therapy is and what clients might expect by working with Rebecca.
7 Must-Read Indigenous Children’s Books of 2024
Discover 7 must-read Indigenous children's books of 2024, featuring diverse stories that celebrate culture, tradition, and important social issues. Perfect for young readers and educators seeking to explore Indigenous perspectives through engaging narratives and beautiful illustrations.
Candid Cherry Tree Chats
If you're looking for a down-to-earth, wholesome window into the unique perspective of two brand-new therapists beginning their clinical internship, watch our latest special video edition blog post. Sophi and Ramann candidly interview each other, sharing their therapeutic approach, their hopes, and what inspired them to pursue the field of counselling!
Wisdom From Afar
Explore our 'Wisdom from Afar' guest blog collection, featuring diverse insights and expert perspectives on mental health, personal growth, and wellness. Discover thought-provoking articles and practical advice from leading professionals and passionate individuals. Join our community and stay informed with fresh, engaging content.
Unpacking Two-Spirit Identities
Decolonize mental health care by centering Two-Spirit identities. This guide explores providing affirmative, culturally grounded therapy for Two-Spirit clients, addressing barriers to inclusive care, and championing resilience.
From Inner Critic to Inner Ally
Self-compassion means treating yourself with kindness, and understanding that imperfections are part of the human experience. Learn how offering grace and a balanced perspective during life's challenges can reduce anxiety, boost resilience, and unlock inner peace. Discover practical tips for cultivating self-forgiveness and self-acceptance through writing, meditation, and more.
Unbottling Our Emotions
From a young age, we're conditioned some feelings are "good" while others are "bad" and should be suppressed. But rejecting parts of our emotional truth causes dysfunction. All emotions deserve to be felt and processed in a healthy way.
The Inside Out films present an opportunity to reflect on how we perceive our emotional landscapes. Inside Out 2 depicts new intense feelings overtaking Riley's mind, mirroring the upheaval of adolescence. These movies champion embracing emotional complexity rather than suppressing difficult feelings.
When we normalize the full "emotional rainbow," we cultivate greater resilience and self-acceptance...
The Weight of Worry
In everyday conversation, "OCD" is often tossed around without considering the profound impact it has on those living with the disorder. Using it to describe mundane habits trivializes the struggles of individuals dealing with intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours. This blog post focuses on perinatal OCD, aiming to dispel misconceptions and shed light on its significant impact on maternal mental health.
Dare to Whisper
It is in our closest and most intimate relationships that we come to deeply understand ourselves, our position and place in this world, our identities, dreams and desires. As therapists we are incredibly humbled and honoured to serve in the role of bearing witness…as women unpack their personal burdens and the systemic roadblocks that get in the way of peace and fulfillment. Often our experiences involve distress related to sexual health and intimacy.
From Labour to Liberation
Trauma, a complex phenomenon deeply embedded in human experience, manifests as the emotional aftermath of distressing events. Its impact varies widely among individuals, with some emerging unscathed while others bear enduring emotional scars. Trauma extends beyond individuals, affecting witnesses and those working closely with traumatized individuals. Navigating trauma's aftermath is a personal journey, with diverse pathways to healing.
Care in the Community Spotlight
Do you know about the recently installed windphone in the Driving Park located in Dundas, Ontario?
In this blog post, we talk about the rising awareness of windphones all over the world and the crucial importance they hold for helping individuals have a special place to process their grief and talk to loved ones who have passed on.
Reclaiming Resilience
In this insightful Q&A session about the Rewind Trauma Course, we delve into the potential game-changing impact of this therapeutic technique. Offering a glimpse into its evidence-based efficacy and the transformative results it promises in just a few sessions, the discussion unfolds as a narrative of empowerment and healing. As the Rewind Technique begins to make its mark in Canada, therapists have the chance to enhance their toolbox and provide clients with a swift, safe, and sustainable resolution to trauma, marking a significant turning point in the landscape of therapeutic interventions. This blog post encapsulates the excitement and potential surrounding the emergence of the Rewind Technique, shedding light on its role as a groundbreaking catalyst for positive change in trauma recovery.
Tend and Befriend: How to Nurture Adult Friendships
Explore the dynamic world of female friendships in our latest post, celebrating the magic of Galentine's Day and the stress-busting power of tend-and-befriend bonds. Travel the globe with us on February 14th, discovering diverse friendship celebrations and different friendship types. Need tips on making or rekindling connections? We've got you covered with practical advice for year-round celebrations. Uncover the hurdles friendships face and how therapists can be your guides in navigating challenges. Dive into our engaging post for a quick journey into the vibrant realm of friendships!