#Trauma Therapist Ontario

[nelliehealth]

Unlocking the Power of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Ontario

Unlock the transformative potential of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Ontario. Discover how this evidence-based approach can help you overcome challenges and change your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions for the better. Unlock your full potential with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Ontario.

[flock-of-cassowaries]

Still absolutely convinced, by the way, that Hannibal Lecter is not a real psychiatrist.

Like, he just stole someone’s identity. This guy has no actual idea what he’s doing. He’s just faking his way through.

Honestly, it kind of makes sense, if you head-canon this show as having taken place in Toronto, where it was filmed; which I always subconsciously do, (because like, duh, yeah - that’s definitely Toronto?).

But yeah, as something of a frequent-flyer in the Ontario mental health system, I can attest to that there is a wide variety of levels of skill and professionalism amongst therapists here; actual psychiatrist licensing is pretty strict, but for psychologists / therapists? It really did not used to be that stringent, and people who were qualified under the old, very lax requirements were grandfathered in.

(And yes, I know that giving patients psilocybin to help them process their trauma is a recognized therapeutic modality; but… I suspect that Abigail Hobbs is, for various reasons - her age, the type and recency of her trauma, the way that this therapeutic idea was introduced to her as a quick-time event in a way that makes me seriously question her ability to give informed consent to the treatment, the fact that they’ve barely tried anything less potentially retraumatizing first - I don’t think she is an ideal candidate for this treatment.)

[dissociationdude]

MEET THE ARTIST - 24TH EDITION

Hi everyone, my name is Milos, and I felt it was time for a new introduction. 

I’m a 24 year old neurodivergent nonbinary queer multimedia expressionist artist. 

Wow, a lot of labels I know! I just feel these are the most important ones for me.

I’m based in Ontario, Canada.

My work is a very personal part of me. I use art for therapeutic reasons most of the time, and the expressionism is a very important aspect of that. Most of the time I do not think of the final product of what I am making, just focus on what I’m feeling while I create and evoking those emotions with my art. I have a lot of work based on traumatic events, but the reason for these creations was never to evoke the feelings of being alone, unwanted, etcetera; they were created to make the viewers who deal with the same emotions to feel less alone in those things. It is for those who have survived trauma to know it’s hard to have that trauma and carry it, and there is safe spaces to put it down. My art is aiming to be a safe place to survivors who are struggling, to provide a place to weep, to provide a place to be seen. Many of my works are graphic, talking about the trauma I went through in ways others find grotesque. And to that I say: Why should I have to carry something so grotesque, alone? Why can’t I put it down somewhere, and put the appropriate context warnings? My work is not to promote the grotesque in a way that is profiting, but to show that this is what some people endure in life. I want to be allowed to show my darkest vulnerabilities with my art, because I shouldn’t have to feel shame for what others have done to me, and nobody else should hold onto shame caused by others harming them, in my eyes. My work is a conversation starter about how trauma manifests in people. I want it to be that way. Other times, my work is very bright, happy, storytelling. It depends on what I’m going for in the respect of the piece being about the trauma events, or the trauma recovery. I basically just make a lot of work based on different trauma. I tend to pull inspiration from musicians I like as well. Many people knew me for my Crywank album series, I did art for almost every song of every album they have made. 

I always want to evoke emotion with colour and narrative, and I do that with various tools. Digitally I work on an iPad Pro 4th gen 12.9 inch and an Apple Pencil that I bought used off a friend. I also have a Wacom bamboo tablet for my computer and when I use adobe products for university. I have a variety of magazines, books, paper, that I use for collage works. I often paint with acrylic paint on canvas for paintings, but sometimes wood boards as well. When I work in sketchbooks they’re usually max size 5x7inches for travel purposes, but my pencil case is huge and loaded with supplies. I always have a bag of words handy for collage poetry.

I am really not into talking about myself in regards to my personality, but I feel like I’m a very anxious but always trying their best kind of guy. I don't have other socials I'm sharing on because I have grown to hate social media. I don’t really do much for work aside from lawn care because my disabilities, but I am in university full time pursuing to be an art therapist, and I’m doing my best to adapt to living in a safe, non traumatizing environment. 

Thanks for enjoying my art in the process of me learning to love myself fully, and accept my trauma. 

Love to everyone,

Milos / Dissociationdude 

[beardedmrbean]

Warning: This story contains details of an alleged sexual encounter.

A Brantford, Ont-area social worker whose clients include first responders dealing with trauma faces allegations of professional misconduct and sexual abuse after an investigation by the professional college.

Laura Dowler is accused of alleged incidents over a four-year period, the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) says in a report following its months-long investigation.

The college alleges Dowler used her "position of authority to coerce, improperly influence, harass, abuse or exploit" clients between 2019 and 2022, despite knowing they were experiencing mental health challenges.

The college determined the alleged incidents involved four clients who were counselled by Dowler at her private practice, Grand River Counselling, in Paris west of Brantford. The report does not say what prompted the college's investigation.

The discipline committee will hear the case in the coming months. A date has not yet been set.

Dowler denies the allegations and declined to comment further as the matter is before the discipline committee, her lawyer, Daniel Libman, told CBC Hamilton.

Social worker still on the job

The college's investigation is outside of any possible criminal proceedings. Brantford police said they are not actively investigating. They did not confirm if they've received complaints.

In the meantime, Dowler is allowed to continue her social work, after entering into a voluntary agreement this month that she'll be overseen by a supervisor and will let the college know where she's working, according to the college's website.

An online profile says Dowler works with clients experiencing mental health, relationship, complex trauma and dissociation issues, and specializes in clients who work as first responders. Last year, she was featured as a guest speaker at a "front-line mental health" conference organized in Brantford for police officers, paramedics and firefighters.

Dowler works with first responders, such as police officers, firefighters and paramedics, struggling with trauma. (Louis Roth/Shutterstock)

Dowler was an instructor at Wilfrid Laurier University's department of social work for this past school year, according to its website. A spokesperson said the university declined to comment on the investigation and Dowler is not currently teaching there.

The OCSWSSW told CBC Hamilton that any sexual contact between social workers and clients is "strictly forbidden."

"Violating professional boundaries and engaging in sexual abuse is an extremely serious form of professional misconduct," said college spokesperson Sarah Choudhury in an email.

If the discipline committee finds a social worker engaged in professional misconduct, penalties could range from a reprimand to revoking the individual's registration and ability to practise.

Clients included married couple

Two of Dowler's clients were married in 2019 when she agreed to counsel them individually and also oversee their couple sessions conducted by another therapist, according to the college discipline committee's report.

The man and woman are called Client A and Client B, respectively, in the report, which keeps the clients' identities confidential.

Dowler "engaged in sexual abuse and/or boundary-violating behaviours" with Client A without his consent, alleges the college. Dowler hugged and kissed him and rubbed his genitals through his clothing, it adds.

The college alleges Dowler went to his home late one night and wouldn't leave for hours, despite being asked. Dowler allegedly told him that if he tried to end counselling with her and didn't allow her to sexually touch him, he would be "deprived of support" and lose work benefits, the report says.

Client B previously filed a complaint against Dowler with the college in 2021, alleging Dowler was in a conflict of interest when she provided them both with individual counselling as well as overseeing their couple's counselling, among other issues, the report says.

The college decided not to refer those allegations to the discipline committee because no other complaints had ever been filed against Dowler, and she had taken steps to "mitigate" the concern, according to their decision in 2022. It was therefore not made public, but was kept on her file.

The college's report included a response letter from Dowler to Client B. Dowler denied the allegations and said she had Client B's "best interest at heart." She said she "kept everything separate" during the course of Client A's and B's counselling, and treated them "as individuals with no attachment to the other."

While investigating the most recent allegations, the college said, it found Dowler had discussed the 2021 complaint with Client A and what information he was going to provide to investigators. The college alleges Dowler used her position of authority to "coerce, improperly influence and exploit Client A."

CBC Hamilton spoke to Client B and agreed to keep her identity confidential due to the ongoing proceedings at the college and to not identify Client A — an alleged victim of sexual abuse by Dowler — without his permission.

Client B said Dowler's alleged conduct caused her immense stress and had a "brutal" impact on her mental health and marriage, which ended in divorce.

"The impacts are very far reaching," Client B said.  "You throw a stone in the pond and there's a ripple effect."

Committee hearing date to be posted later

The college also alleges Dowler had inappropriate relationships with a third person, referred to as Clients C in the report. She also failed to ensure she hadn't "exploited, coerced or manipulated intentionally or unintentionally" a fourth person, Client D.

Dowler knew of Client C's substance use, mental health concerns and difficulties in his marriage, according to the college. The report says Dowler would often have two-hour sessions with him and they engaged in a months-long sexual relationship.

It also says Client D was struggling with emotional issues, stress and anger while receiving counselling from Dowler, and that she violated boundaries by exchanging texts and gifts.

With these clients, Dowler had incomplete clinical records that didn't include the text messages exchanged, clinical assessments or treatment plans, the college says. She also allegedly provided deleted and altered text messages to the college investigator.

The college told CBC Hamilton it first attempts to negotiate an agreement before setting a hearing date, which will be posted to its website.

If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts or having a mental health crisis, there is help out there:

[mybookplacenet]

Featured Post: Getting Unstuck by Dr. Dennis Murphy

About Getting Unstuck: EBook FREE for a limited time! Do you suffer from ‘childhood’ inner wounds? Here is a telltale sign! If you experience ‘recurring’ or ‘out of proportion’ emotions and reactions to present-day events, experiences, people, or behaviors… …there is a good chance you do. If this sounds familiar, Dr. Murphy’s book will give you life changing information. Inner wounds will keep you stuck. Why? Because they are unconscious. These wounds impact day-to-day life by causing pain, suffering and damage. People live their life not knowing why it is so difficult. No matter what they do, nothing changes. The same cycle of pain and struggle continues causing despair and hopelessness. The truth is... ...many of our day-to-day struggles and afflictions such as depression, anxieties, relationship difficulties, or mal-adaptive behaviours are based in early childhood trauma or the lack of a loving, nurturing environment that is crucial to bring forth the child’s Spirit and give birth to the positive self-beliefs that create confident, happy, loving adults. THERE IS AN ANSWER! Dr. Murphy’s powerful insights will help you: • Find the cause of what holds you back, keeps you stuck, and darkens your world so you can break free, see the light, and live your wonderful life. • Develop four critical levels of awareness so you can heal the source of your pain and reclaim your Life. • Learn how inner wounds affect your present-day life. • Discover the powerful source of your existence that is within You. • Use your intense and volatile emotions to set yourself free. LEARN TO CONFRONT THE "ROOT CAUSES" OF DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, ADDICTION, ANGER, SHAME, CODEPENDENCY, FEAR, COMPLEX PTSD, PHOBIAS, EMOTIONAL DYSREGULATION, COMPULSIONS, MALADAPTIVE BEHAVIOURS, AND STRESS SO YOU CAN END THE PAIN AND STRUGGLE. START LIVING YOUR EXCEPTIONAL LIFE! Getting Unstuck equips not only sufferers but also psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and trauma-informed therapists with the insights and tools necessary to break free from the long-term effects of childhood trauma and other adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Consciousness is freedom! Build kindness and compassion for yourself...Explore your trauma...Invest in your recovery...You can heal! With Dr. Murphy’s powerful insights and ground-breaking work, you can integrate deep-rooted, unconscious wounds and break free of your emotional prison – so you can finally become the loving, happy adult you were meant to be! Pick up your copy today. Targeted Age Group: All ages Written by: Dr. Dennis Murphy Buy the ebook: Buy the Book On Amazon Buy the Print Book: Buy the Book On Amazon Author Bio: It is not uncommon for a person’s life to unravel when faced with extreme stress or trauma. Dr. Dennis Murphy's primary mission in life is to help people find healing. Dennis's passion is to point people home to Being, so their thoughts and emotions align with Truth---the Truth of who they really Are. Dennis knows there is no single approach to healing but he is convinced all forms of healing and all therapists can benefit from his insights. His books can dramatically shorten the journey to living a life of happiness, joy, peace and wholeness. Dennis makes his home in the center of Canada and loves writing his books by the water on an island in northwestern Ontario. He is currently writing his latest books “Heal Through the Power of Being” and “Daily Bread”. “Transformational” is the word, long time healer and spiritual teacher, Sister Theresa uses to describe his work. He especially hopes his books can free people from the dragon which creates so much depression, anxiety, addiction, negativity, division, isolation, anger, hate and fear; so they can enjoy every precious moment and live an exceptional life. Dr. Murphy has a six-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Canada. He belongs to the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association. He graduated from Applied Counselling and Addictions Counselling after studying at the University of Manitoba and Brandon University. He studied Couples Therapy at the University of Winnipeg and General Counselling at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine. Dennis walks the walk. He has been committed to the work of personal growth and healing for over 30 years. To take advantage of his work, visit his website http://thenurturingdoctor.com and sign up to receive emails about his latest insights and new releases. Follow the author on social media: Learn more about the writer. Visit the Author's Website Facebook Fan Page Instagram Read the full article

[innersojourn]

Therapy services in London, Ontario, offer a range of professional support for individuals seeking mental health and wellness solutions. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, depression trauma relationship challenges or life transitions, therapy provides a safe and confidential environment to work through your thoughts and emotions. Skilled therapists in London utilize various therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, psychodynamic therapy and more each tailored to the specific needs of the client.!

[therapysupportson]

TherapySupports is dedicated to offering quality individuals therapy services in Toronto. Our experienced therapists provide one-on-one support designed to help you navigate mental health challenges, improve self-awareness, and promote personal growth. We understand that every individual’s journey is unique, and we tailor our therapy sessions to meet your specific needs and goals.

TherapySupports 88 Bloor St E. Toronto, ON M4W 3G9 (647) 964–3669

My Official Website: https://therapysupports.com/ Google Plus Listing: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=2174038919680065174

My Other Links:

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[sahapsychotherapyyyy]

Prioritize Your Mental Health Today

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, yet accessing quality care can sometimes feel like a hurdle. Thankfully, technology has revolutionized how we approach therapy, with online psychotherapy becoming a readily available option in Ontario, including Ottawa. This blog delves into the benefits and considerations of online therapy, along with highlighting Ottawa-based therapy options, both online and in-person.

Online Therapy: Bridging the Gap to Mental Wellness

Online psychotherapy Ontario , also known as teletherapy, leverages technology to offer therapy sessions remotely through video conferencing platforms. This innovative approach presents several advantages:

Convenience and Accessibility: Online therapy allows you to attend sessions from the comfort of your home or any chosen location with a secure internet connection. This eliminates travel time and provides flexibility for busy schedules.

Reduced Stigma: Online therapy can feel less intimidating for some individuals, especially those struggling with social anxiety or transportation limitations.

Wider Range of Therapists: Online platforms can connect you with therapists specializing in specific areas, even if they're located outside your immediate area.

Improved Cost-Effectiveness: Online therapy can sometimes be more affordable than traditional in-person sessions due to reduced overhead costs.

Is Online Therapy Right for You?

While online therapy offers numerous benefits, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here's how to determine if it's a good fit for you:

Technology Comfort Level: Do you feel comfortable engaging in video calls and using online platforms?

Internet Connection: A reliable internet connection is necessary for uninterrupted and secure online sessions.

Privacy Considerations: Ensure you understand the platform's privacy policies and security measures.

Nature of Your Needs: For individuals experiencing severe mental health conditions or complex trauma, in-person therapy might be recommended.

Ottawa Therapy: Exploring Local Options

Ottawa boasts a vibrant community of skilled therapists, offering in-person and online therapy services. Whether you choose online or in-person sessions, here are some factors to consider:

Areas of Expertise: Find a therapist specializing in the specific challenges you're facing, such as anxiety, depression, or relationship issues.

Therapeutic Approach: Different therapists utilize various approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness-based practices. Explore their website or contact them for details.

Insurance Coverage: Many therapists accept insurance coverage, so check with your provider to understand your options.

Saha Psychotherapy: Your Trusted Partner for Mental Wellness

At Saha Psychotherapy, we believe in providing accessible and effective therapy services to individuals in the Ottawa Psychotherapy region. We offer both online and in-person therapy sessions, catering to your individual needs and preferences.

Benefits of Choosing Saha Psychotherapy:

Experienced Therapists: Our team consists of highly qualified and experienced therapists specializing in various areas of mental health.

Personalized Care: We take a client-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to your unique needs and goals.

Flexible Scheduling: We offer convenient online and in-person appointment slots to accommodate your busy schedule.

Teletherapy Options: We understand the benefits of online therapy and provide safe and secure video conferencing sessions.

Taking the First Step Towards Well-being

Whether you choose online therapy or explore in-person options in Ottawa, the most important step is taking action towards your well-being. Saha Psychotherapy is here to support you on your journey. We encourage you to explore our website, read about our therapists, and contact us to discuss your specific needs.

[winroseoasis]

Top Therapists in Ontario: Your Guide to Mental Wellness

Ontario is home to some of the best therapists in Canada, offering diverse mental health services to support individuals in various stages of life. Whether you’re seeking help for anxiety, depression, stress management, or relationship issues, Ontario’s mental health professionals are equipped to provide the care you need.

The province offers a wide range of therapy options, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, and family counseling. Many therapists specialize in specific areas such as trauma recovery, addiction treatment, and children’s mental health, ensuring personalized care tailored to your unique needs.

Finding the right therapist can make a significant difference in your journey to mental wellness. Reputable directories like Psychology Today and the Ontario Psychological Association can help you connect with licensed professionals in your area.

Investing in your mental health is one of the most important steps you can take toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. With the support of Ontario’s skilled therapists, you can work through life’s challenges and build the resilience needed to thrive.

[lawyer4uu]

Sexual Assault Lawyer in Toronto: Your Guide to Seeking Justice

Why You Need a Sexual Assault Lawyer

Sexual assault cases are complex and often emotionally charged. The legal process can be daunting, especially for survivors who may already be grappling with trauma. An experienced sexual assault lawyer provides not only legal expertise but also a compassionate and understanding approach to your case. These lawyers are well-versed in the laws surrounding sexual assault and can help you understand your rights and the options available to you.

Navigating the legal system without the help of a lawyer can be risky. Sexual assault laws in Ontario are intricate, and a single misstep in the process can significantly affect the outcome of your case. A sexual assault lawyer will ensure that all legal proceedings are handled properly, from filing the initial complaint to representing you in court. sexual assault lawyer in toronto They will also protect your interests by ensuring your voice is heard and that the defense doesn’t exploit any legal loopholes.

What a Sexual Assault Lawyer Can Do for You

Understanding Your Case: A sexual assault lawyer will begin by thoroughly understanding the details of your case. They will listen to your story, ask clarifying questions, and work to gather evidence to build a strong case on your behalf. This evidence can include medical reports, witness statements, and expert testimonies that support your claim.

Explaining Legal Options: Sexual assault cases can be pursued through both criminal and civil courts. Your lawyer will explain the difference between the two and help you decide which avenue is best for your situation. Criminal cases are handled by the Crown prosecutor, while civil cases allow survivors to seek compensation for the harm they’ve endured. A lawyer will guide you on the best course of action based on your individual circumstances.

Providing Emotional Support: Many sexual assault lawyers in Toronto recognize the emotional toll that these cases take on survivors. While their primary role is legal representation, many lawyers also work closely with counselors, therapists, and support groups to ensure that you receive emotional care throughout the process. They will provide reassurance, encouragement, and a sense of safety as you go through the legal proceedings.

Representing You in Court: If your case goes to trial, a sexual assault lawyer will be your advocate in court. They will present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf, ensuring that your case is presented in the strongest possible way. This level of representation can help secure a favorable outcome, whether that is a conviction of the perpetrator or a financial settlement.

How to Choose the Right Sexual Assault Lawyer in Toronto

Choosing the right lawyer is a critical decision. You should look for a lawyer with extensive experience in sexual assault cases, a track record of successful outcomes, and a compassionate approach. immigration criminal defence lawyer toronto In Toronto, many legal professionals specialize in sexual assault law and are familiar with the nuances of the local legal system.

It’s also important to choose a lawyer with whom you feel comfortable. Sexual assault cases involve discussing highly sensitive and personal information, so trust and open communication are essential. Take the time to meet with potential lawyers for an initial consultation. This will allow you to assess their experience, communication style, and whether they’re the right fit for your case.

[titanllp]

Sexual Assault Lawyers in Toronto: Finding the Right Legal Support

Understanding the Role of a Sexual Assault Lawyer

Sexual assault lawyers in Toronto are legal professionals who specialize in cases related to sexual violence, including assault, harassment, and abuse. Their primary role is to advocate for the survivor, ensuring their rights are protected and that they receive fair treatment under the law. These lawyers provide essential services, including:

Legal Representation: Sexual assault lawyers represent survivors in both criminal and civil courts. In criminal cases, they work to ensure that the perpetrator is held accountable for their actions. Sexual Assault Lawyers Toronto In civil cases, they may help survivors seek compensation for the harm they have suffered.

Guidance and Support: Navigating the legal system can be daunting, especially for those who have experienced trauma. A sexual assault lawyer provides guidance on the legal process, helping survivors understand their rights and the steps involved in pursuing justice.

Confidentiality and Sensitivity: Sexual assault cases require a high level of confidentiality and sensitivity. Experienced lawyers are trained to handle these cases with the utmost care, ensuring that survivors feel safe and supported throughout the process.

What to Expect When Working with a Sexual Assault Lawyer

When you choose to work with a sexual assault lawyer in Toronto, you can expect a comprehensive approach to your case. Here are some key aspects of the process:

Initial Consultation: The first step in working with a sexual assault lawyer is an initial consultation. During this meeting, you will discuss the details of your case, and the lawyer will assess its merits. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and determine if the lawyer is the right fit for you.

Case Strategy: If you decide to proceed, the lawyer will develop a strategy tailored to your case. This may involve gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and preparing for court proceedings. The lawyer will keep you informed of all developments and ensure that you understand the legal strategy being pursued.

Legal Proceedings: Sexual assault cases can be complex and may involve multiple legal proceedings. Your lawyer will represent you in court, advocating on your behalf and working to achieve the best possible outcome. This may include negotiating settlements, presenting evidence, and cross-examining witnesses.

Emotional Support: While sexual assault lawyers are not therapists, they understand the emotional toll that these cases can take on survivors. They often work closely with counselors and support organizations to ensure that you have access to the emotional support you need throughout the legal process.

How to Choose the Right Sexual Assault Lawyer in Toronto

Finding the right sexual assault lawyer in Toronto is crucial to achieving a successful outcome in your case. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:

Experience: Look for a lawyer who specializes in sexual assault cases and has a proven track record of success. Experience in this specific area of law is essential for understanding the nuances and challenges involved.

Reputation: Research the lawyer’s reputation by reading reviews, asking for referrals, and checking their standing with the Law Society of Ontario. sexual assault lawyer A lawyer with a strong reputation is more likely to provide the quality of representation you need.

Comfort Level: It’s important to choose a lawyer with whom you feel comfortable. The legal process can be lengthy, and you’ll want to work with someone who listens to you, respects your wishes, and communicates effectively.

Resources: Consider whether the lawyer has access to the resources needed to handle your case, such as expert witnesses, investigators, and support staff. A well-resourced law firm can often provide a more comprehensive approach to your case.

[nelliehealth]

Mental Health Therapy in Ontario

Looking for Mental Health Therapy in Ontario? Look no further than Nellie Health. Our experienced therapists provide personalized care to help you improve your mental health and overall well-being. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

[sonyadance]

Travels and Dancing 21

To start the New Year, I had the chance to spend a weekend with a group of beautiful women doing energy work in a chalet in the Laurentians.   I needed that reset and what a reset!  Wow!  I am forever grateful to everybody I’ve met on my energy work journey in the last 12 years, for all the help, the community, and the work towards an upward spiral, fighting entropy and darkness.  Then I had the honor of going to teach in a beautiful small community not too far from Montreal called Sherbrooke.  I love weekend workshops.  The fact that it is one straight line, no running around between judging, workshops, privates, shows, is one of the advantages; but what I really like is that you follow one or two group for an entire weekend.  You can see them develop together, there are generally more questions being asked because people get to connect and feel safer, there is a theme for the weekend that is always fun for me to create.  I had a beautiful welcome, great workshops and an amazing teacher’s training (which I also loooove to teach) with great teacher’s brains: everybody was asking the right questions, working hard on the art of diagnosing and enjoying themselves.  Future Westies of Sherbrooke, you are in good hands!

I was then invited to come teach for the first time in the community of Waterloo, Ontario.  A baby community of only 2 years old, which the leader, Mikaela Lewis, managed to grow in a way I haven’t seen before.  I have traveled around the world witnessing how wcs develops and, yes, there might be a part we can attribute to timing (wcs being really popular right now, thanks to all our colleagues that are pushing the social media market with IG and TT), but there is just an approach that she has to building that I think she could sell for a lot of money!  It was a beautiful weekend, filled with workshops of various levels, privates and dancing… I think 160 people showed up at the Saturday night dance.  Have you ever seen that after only two years of wcs existing in a town?

It is now the beginning of February of a really mild winter (secret and guilty thank you to global warming) and I am heading towards Philadelphia to practice with one of my partner.  I get there a bit late on Friday, plane delays as usual, and we have a great practice into the night.  The next morning, we wake, head towards the studio, start practicing, and… I mess up my neck.  Fuck.  Let’s say that I haven’t had the best run with health in the last year.  Is it the trauma of what happened last March?  An addition of all the health things I didn’t take care of until now because I felt young and invincible?  Yeah, that sounds about right.  We try to find someone to see me asap so my neck doesn’t freeze for longer than it needs to, I end up going to the massage therapist and babying it all weekend, but we couldn’t get much done.  I am not really good at dealing with health stuff that doesn’t go my way.  It makes me feel powerless and everything I do relies on my body… so I was really disappointed about investing in a plane ticket, time and energy in going to Philadelphia to get as much rehearsal as possible, for my body to say: No.  Thank god my partner is one of the chillest person I know, it helps calm me down and not add catastrophizing thoughts on top of the reality and be able to observe the facts a bit clearly.  Still shitty.

I got some osteopathic treatment when I got home so I’d be able to teach the next weekend.  Québec city it is with the amazing Nelson!  I have mentioned it before in one of the Travels and Dancing, but I love Nelson so much.  There is just an underlying level of trust that I’ve never had with anybody in dancing before (except Stephen for routines, I would have trusted him with my life), that helps us create... anything and everything!  Every time we finish dancing we are like:

- Oh my god!  That was so nice what you did! 

- I didn’t do anything.  What you did was amazing!

- I didn’t do anything either!

Lolll.  We know it now and we understand it is thanks to the immense trust we have between us as human beings first and then as dancers.  So when people ask me, I always try to have Nelson hired along side me.  We taught some workshops together, some individually, did a demo and danced with the beautiful westies there.  Thank you Québec for the amazing weekend!

Next weekend was Sacramento for Capitol Swing.  My first time at this event.  I have heard about the NorCal vs SoCal friendly feud before and I must say, I am definitely NorCal!  I found the people to be so nice and welcoming, just a bit more of a relaxed and true atmosphere than events I’ve been at in SoCal.  Nothing bad, just a difference in vibes.  It’s like if you ask: is Madjam or a chalet type of event better?  Neither.  What do you like?  Do you like big lights, want to be inspired by the best shows in the world and de surrounded by hundreds of people during the social dance or does this overwhelms you and you prefer to have an intimate atmosphere where you can create connections, have the time to dance with most of the attendees and have smaller group workshops?  I don’t think there is a better one, just what you prefer, want and need at this moment in time.  So I would suggest, before booking an event, you inquire about the general vibes and set up of it, and you take a minute to look inside of yourself and check what is best going to suit your path right now.  So Capitol was one of the best ran event I’ve attended, beautiful attention to detail.  I really like Ben and Cameo McHenry’s minds, they are always trying to push the envelop with ideas that follows what they value in dance.  I particularly liked the Champion’s choice Strictly.  The idea was that a Champion asks an All-Star of their choice whom they’d like to dance with, to do Strictly with them.  It was fun to see different pairings than the usual Champions Strictly.  I had a blast dancing with Keerigan. 

Stephen and I did our routine again for the first time since the Open.  We trained, social danced, met new people, it was awesome… until my flight back.  Worse epic I’ve been on. Loll  It started with an 11pm overnight flight and it ended up with, delay, sitting on the tarmac until 3am, returning to the hotel, sleeping for 3 hours, going back to the airport for a pushed back 2pm flight on which they couldn’t find my seat, trying to fix that at check-in for an hour, getting on the plane, getting deplaned again for a 4p, departure, getting so late at my layover that there was no other flight to Montreal for that day, sleeping at the hotel, a total of 48 hours in airport with a 45$ voucher for food (imagine the feast you get for 6 meals at an airport with ALL of that money), missing a day of work, loosing a bunch of money, getting home to sleep a bit and start working the next day.  Loll  Not my best run.  I am still waiting for compensation for that flight, my case number is currently 64 308 in line.

I was finally home for a weekend, which was my birthday weekend!  First birthday in Montreal in 13 years.  Yes!!!!  I was so happy to be able to spend that time with my friends and family.  One of my best friend lend me his apartment so I could invite my friends from school, dance, family members and have a joyous melting pot.  I also had my handsome boyfriend with me all weekend and everything felt perfect!  Thank you so much again to everybody that took the time to come and spend time with me: it means a lot.

Can you believe I had two weekends at home without working (well, still taught some privates and did online work, cause work never ends…) in March?  It felt really good to rest, see my people and finally spend time with my partner.  Time is a bit restricted when one of you works a 9 to 5 and the other one, 4 to 10 and is gone on weekends.  One of the reason I came back to Montreal is also because it is where there is the highest concentration of people I love, but I am never available at the same time as everybody to hang out, so this is something I am trying to change and establish: make enough money at home that I don’t have to go away 4 weekends a month to eat, 2 would be perfect cause I still love and want to do it!!!

I taught an intermediate competition intensive in Montreal and it went amazingly well!  Better than what I could have envisioned.  The concept is to have one for each level of WSDC competition, four hours with a really small group of people (maximum 6 leads and 6 follows) who are currently competing at that level and want a better understanding of what the judges are looking at at that level, the difference between a prelim and a final (until now pretty standard), but then receive individual attention to understand what they need to work on in order to get yeses or place.  I put my judges hat on to help them see what pieces are missing that could give a judge a reason to give them a no, then I give them drills to practice so when they get to their next competition the judges don’t have a quick justification for a no.  Again, it always depends on who’s competing around you, but your job is to make me work so I have trouble leaving you out of the finals.  The students were happy, the teacher was happy, it was a great weekend!

Then I was waiting for Aaron to get to Montreal to practice, but… he wrote me to say that they got delayed.  My first reaction after the Sacramento debacle was: oh no… hopefully it’s not as bad.  It wasn’t.  For the traveler, but they got delayed so bad and had to get rebooked.  The soonest flight he could get rebooked on was for the Sunday night and he had to leave Monday morning.  So that fell through, but!  He managed to rebook for the following week so we had a day to practice before heading to BTO Open!  It was Aaron’s first Canadian event.  I think he enjoyed it. ;-)

BTO was really great this year.  A bit smaller than the previous year if I’m not mistaking, maybe due to the fact that Boston Tea Party resuscitated!  Ayo!  So between Madjam, BTP and BTO, it was a lot in a month for the eastern Canadian westie community.  We did have a crew from Calgary come over, cheer and be absolutely awesome for the weekend, alongside the Toronto, Québec, Ottawa, Montréal, London, Waterloo westies, and more!  My boyfriend came Friday night and saw me dance live for the first time in the Invitational.  I was so excited, but then I couldn’t see him in the crowd when we got on the dancefloor and I thought for some reason he had left!  I looked like a kid looking for their parents in the crowd. Loll  I did put on a show, and obviously, he was still in the room and loved it!  Hihi!!  The Inivational with Philippe Berne was fun, the strictly with Nelson was smooth, and the Pro Show with Nelson was probably my favorite performance of my lifetime.  I taught an advanced workshop with a new concept about shaping and shifting that was really well received, a novice workshop that had a big impact on their dancing, and a strictly tune-up that was really fun.  It was a really filled and fulfilling weekend!

My family was kind enough to postpone Easter dinner for a week so I could join in my “weekend in town” of the month.  It felt so good to see everybody and way too short.  I also had the chance to meet a side of my boyfriend’s family I hadn’t met before and enjoy a long and delicious day/meal.

Then came the Calgary Dance Stampede.  I was supposed to compete in my first country ProPro division, but… life had other plans.  In my entire adult life, of teaching and performing dance, I had never cancelled anything related to work.  Well, one time in Germany, I was in pain for what I didn’t know is what I am awaiting surgery for, and I had to forgo the social dance.  I need gallbladder removal surgery, I am on the wait list, but that can be a really long wait in the Quebec health system, I have been mostly doing fine with just a few crisis here and there.  Until the end of March, I started being in pain 100% of the time.  Not the worse, but about a 5/10, just enough to slowly sap away your energy.  But when I was on the plane to Calgary, I had a horrendous crisis (I was wondering if I should ask them to land the plane) and by the time I landed, I was livid.  I had to find a doctor, get pain medication and managed to teach and judge, but I didn’t have the energy to compete or perform.  I really hope this can get resolved quickly.  Actually, as I am writing this, I have had my first day without pain for a month and I just now realize how much of a difference it makes on my life force.  Besides that, the event was purely magical.  There is something about the country side that is so relax, just a culture I love, that, mixed with wcs, creates a delicious cocktail.  So I had a great time even through all that.

Coming back to Montreal, I cancelled everything non work related so I could conserve energy for that: I can’t stop working now, cause I’ll have to stop working for a month after surgery, so as a self-employed worker, you have to come up with a way to make up for that loss.  So I’m working pain or no pain (mostly pain).  In 2020, I had booked a holotropic breath work retreat with an ex.  As you can imagine, it got cancelled, and I got credited for it.  Years went by and I couldn’t find a retreat on a weekend I wasn’t working and that was close enough for me to drive to… until!  I saw this Chester, Connecticut retreat.  So I booked it.  Four years in the making et voilà!  One of the agreement of the retreat is one of confidentiality about what happens during the weekend, because it is really intimate and vulnerable for most attendees, so I will keep it brief.  It was intense.  I don’t think someone could understand it by just having it described to them: you really have to live it to know it.  And even then, I feel like I don’t know anything about it, that I just dipped my toe in the world of holotropic breath work.  I drove six hours on Thursday to get there in time to check-in and register, we then had an opening circle which was really beautiful and set the tone for a safe, open and vulnerable weekend.  A delicious dinner was served, followed by a preparation workshop so we could be ready for what was going to happen during the weekend (we weren’t… or at least, I wasn’t even with all the talk), and we went to bed early.  My roommate was a blast, we talked and giggled every night before bed.  Friday came with the first three hour session where I was one of the breathers.  My god.  Yep.  That’s it.  30m integration, 1h lunch break, and we were at it again interchanging roles; I was then a sitter for one of the breathers.  My god.  Yep.  1h integration, 1h dinner, and sharing circle.  Everybody went to bed early because we were all absolutely trashed.  Saturday came with the same schedule, except that my partner and I exchanged breathing times.  The guesthouse lit up a ceremonial fire for earth day and some of us went out with a guitar, a harmonica, our voices and a lot of enthusiasm.  It was a great night.  We had a closing circle Sunday and a talk about integration.  I hugged everybody before hitting the road for an exquisite 6h of silence and personal debriefing.  I will have to make another article about this weekend at some point so the readers can understand something of it, but I need more time to integrate and make sure I express things in a way that is respectful to everybody and doesn’t disclose anything that shouldn’t be.

Anyways, thank you for reading until here if you did.  I don’t know who you are, but I’m sending you little particles of love and patience towards yourself.  See you next time!

[webrainstorm]

Why you should acquire Couples Counseling 

Acquiring couples counseling can be immensely beneficial for relationships facing challenges or seeking to strengthen their bond. Here are several compelling reasons why couples should consider engaging in Couples Counseling in Ontario:

Improved Communication: Effective communication is at the heart of any healthy relationship. Couples counseling provides a safe and structured environment for partners to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns openly. A skilled therapist can facilitate productive dialogue, teach active listening skills, and help couples learn to communicate more effectively, leading to greater understanding and connection.

Conflict Resolution Skills: Conflicts are inevitable in any relationship, but how couples handle them can significantly affect their overall satisfaction and longevity. Couples counseling equips partners with essential conflict resolution techniques, such as compromise, negotiation, and problem-solving strategies. By learning how to navigate disagreements constructively, couples can prevent conflicts from escalating into larger issues and strengthen their relationship.

Addressing Underlying Issues: Many relationship problems stem from underlying issues that may not be immediately apparent. These could include unresolved past traumas, communication patterns learned from family of origin, or unmet emotional needs. Couples counseling provides a platform for identifying and addressing these underlying issues in a supportive and non-judgmental setting, allowing couples to heal and grow together.

Rebuilding Trust: Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship, and it can be challenging to rebuild when it's compromised. Whether trust has been eroded by infidelity, breaches of confidentiality, or other betrayals, couples counseling can help partners navigate rebuilding trust. Through open dialogue, honesty, and commitment to change, couples can work towards restoring trust and rebuilding a stronger, more resilient relationship.

Enhancing Intimacy and Connection: Intimacy encompasses emotional, physical, and spiritual connection between partners. Couples counseling can help couples explore and deepen their intimacy by fostering vulnerability, empathy, and understanding. Therapists may employ techniques such as guided intimacy exercises, role-playing, or exploring love languages to help couples reconnect on a deeper level and reignite the passion in their relationship.

Learning Healthy Boundaries: Establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries is essential for the well-being of individuals and the relationship as a whole. Couples counseling can help partners identify and set boundaries around personal space, finances, and communication. By respecting each other's boundaries and learning to assert their own needs, couples can create a more harmonious and fulfilling relationship dynamic.

Preparing for Life Transitions: Relationships often face challenges during major life transitions such as marriage, parenthood, career changes, or retirement. Couples counseling can provide invaluable support and guidance during these transitions, helping partners navigate the changes and adapt to new roles and responsibilities. By proactively addressing potential stressors and conflicts, couples can strengthen their bond and weather life's transitions more effectively.

Preventing Future Problems: Even healthy relationships can benefit from couples counseling as a preventive measure. By proactively addressing minor issues and strengthening communication and conflict resolution skills, couples can build a solid foundation for long-term relationship success. Investing in couples counseling early on can help couples identify and address potential problems before they escalate, leading to a happier and more resilient partnership. Couples counseling provides a safe space for partners to explore emotions, navigate challenges, and grow together, fostering deeper understanding, connection, and mutual respect in the relationship.

In conclusion, 

Couples counseling offers many benefits for couples seeking to improve their relationship. From enhancing communication and conflict resolution skills to addressing underlying issues and strengthening intimacy, the guidance and support of a trained therapist can help couples navigate challenges and build a more fulfilling and resilient partnership. Investing in  Couples Counseling in Ontario is an investment in the health and longevity of the relationship, with long-lasting benefits for both partners.

[independentartistbuzz]

Survivor-Led Collaborative Project Chorus of Courage Releases “Sweet Little Hummingbird,” Resilient Singer-Songwriter Track feat. Julian Taylor

Bracebridge, Ontario-based collaboration Chorus of Courage is many things. It is a space created to hold and honour the voices and stories of survivors of violence (their storytellers). 

“We came together as a group and became friends and allies - a supportive family. We created a home to explore some of the most difficult experiences one can imagine – a retreat – and we did it with love, music, silence, acceptance, guidance, connection, and movement, hand in hand. This project explores the entire spectrum of emotions that are felt through the unique experiences of the ones we are here to honour – our storytellers.”

Artist and therapist Cindy Doire leads Chorus of Courage, connecting the project’s storytellers and their allies, professional musicians who have developed dialogues with the survivors and reflected on their experiences, crafting songs that seek to transmit complex lived experiences.

Torontonian singer-songwriter Julian Taylor penned Chorus of Courage’s melodic and caring debut single, “Sweet Little Hummingbird,” as a response to survivor Denyse and her story. Its delicate piano melodies and acoustic guitar strumming compliment Taylor’s kind and open vocal delivery. 

Reflecting on the song’s writing, Taylor explains:

“It is a story of abuse and a struggle through pain that was shared with me through a letter she wrote to me and then through conversations we had with one another where she would go into more detail about the trauma that she faced as a young person and how she’s worked through it. The horrible and horrific things that happened to her scared me to the core and I vowed to keep her story close to my chest and use music and poetry as a way to heal, communicate and reveal the pure strength and pure resonance she illuminates.”

[couplestherapytoronto]

Couples Counselling & Therapy Toronto, Individual therapy

Couples therapy Toronto - I specialize in providing couples Counselling and Therapy in Ontario, Toronto. Couples therapy, family therapy, individual therapy, and psychotherapy are all provided by AV-Therapy.

Psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families

We all want to be carried away by love, yet there are moments when we feel as though our emotions have pulled the rug out from under us, leaving us defenceless and alone.

Do you ever had the feeling that you could be someone else but you can't quite put your finger on who that is? Someone free from fear, guilt, and anxiety? Someone who is aware of their destination and knows they are in charge of their feelings and actions rather than the other way around? You know this feeling can be trusted, but you just can't put your hands on it.

A conversation with another individual can occasionally generate this special environment where your voice can be fully heard.

I approach my work from a client-centered perspective, where your opinions, sentiments, voice, and independence are given priority. Additionally, I've had training in CBT and somatic techniques, and I use this knowledge to assist you in identifying the pertinent questions to ask yourself, experiencing life to the fullest, and taking steps towards your goals.

Together, we will decide which techniques to use: emphasising emotions and their significance, imaginative experiential techniques, paying attention to ideas and behaviour, or using body sensations to develop resiliency and get over trauma. I would be delighted to respond to your inquiries, talk over your objectives, and determine how I may support you in achieving them. Please get in touch with me whenever you'd like to arrange a free phone call.

I'm Arkady. Hello.

I'm a licenced psychotherapist who helps my clients deal with interpersonal conflict and disconnection as well as feelings of being stuck and overburdened by anxiety and stress.

I practised law in a very hectic and demanding setting for many years. I didn't want to do it, but I was stuck and unsure of what to do. I sought to philosophy and art for the answers, but I ultimately discovered them in psychotherapy, which incorporates both.

My training in psychotherapy not only offered me the chance to pursue a career I love, but it also helped me connect with others, feel secure and hopeful, and understand that my life has purpose.

I want to share this experience with you, support you as you face your pain and worries, and hlp you feel confident in who you are.

My qualifications and certifications are:

A master's degree in counselling psychology and psychotherapy is a good start (Moscow State University of Psychology and Education)

Licensed psychologist (College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario)

Licensed Therapist Who Is Emotionally Focused (in progress)

A participant in the Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals

I also have extensive training in the following areas:

Working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ people

Anti-oppressive work

Cognitive behavioural treatment (CBT)

Somatic symptoms

Cognitive-affective treatment

Cognitive Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dealing with grief and loss

Click here:- https://avtherapy.ca/

Contact us:

Phone: (647)955-9987

Location: Toronto, ON, Canada