With the holiday season comes shorter days, cooler nights, and a busyness that can leave us feeling overextended. This time of year can also bring feelings of loneliness—especially for those experiencing the absence of a loved one, perhaps for the first time. We want to acknowledge how difficult this can be and offer support to anyone navigating separation or grieving the loss of a friend or family member during this season. Riding the Emotional Wave While embracing the full range of our emotions can be uncomfortable, it can also lead to new insight and clarity. It’s normal to feel sadness, anger, or confusion during times of change. Remember—these emotions are temporary. We can allow ourselves to feel the depth of our pain while trusting that lightness will return in time. Understanding the stages of grief (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance) can help us maintain a sense of control as we process our experience and begin to heal. Seeking Social Support Research shows that social isolation can contribute to loneliness, difficulty with focus and decision-making, poor sleep, and symptoms of depression. If you find yourself with an empty calendar this year, don’t wait for an invitation, reach out! Ask a good friend if you can join their plans, or take yourself on a solo outing. If that feels too daunting, consider joining a class, volunteering, or attending a community event. Sometimes, simply being around others can help lift our mood and remind us we’re not alone. Getting to Know Yourself It’s natural to focus on what we’ve lost in times like these. But it’s equally important to reflect on what we’ve gained: perhaps more time, flexibility, perspective, or a renewed awareness of our values. Use this season to invest in yourself and prioritize your needs. Be gentle and compassionate toward yourself, and remember your worth. Social connection is one important piece of overall wellness, but it’s not the only one. Take a holistic approach to your health by nurturing all aspects of wellbeing: Physical: Nourish your body with balanced meals, regular movement, and a consistent sleep routine. Spiritual: Engage in cultural traditions, religious practices, or mindfulness activities that bring you peace and meaning. Emotional: Allow yourself space to rest, reflect, and heal. Take time to consider what’s truly important to you and what intentions you’d like to set for the coming year. References Headspace. (n.d.). Realizing and improving self-worth. Headspace Novotney, A. (2020, March 24). The risks of social isolation. Monitor on Psychology, 50(5). American Psychological Association. Read here Silva, S. (2024, July 19). The 5 stages of grief: Understanding the mourning process. Psych Central. Read here From all of us at Brant Mental Health Solutions, Pathways to Hope, and Shoreline Wellness Centre, we wish you a peaceful and restorative holiday season. This blog post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or mental health treatment. For personalized support tailored to your unique needs, consider reaching out to a registered therapist. [...]

Many people who have been with us since the clinics first opened will know that one of our biggest challenges when our daughter was young was finding a psychiatrist in the community who could work with children. Despite our efforts, the long waitlists and the fact that her case wasn’t considered “high priority” meant we waited for what felt like forever, until we eventually had to give up and explore other options. A few years ago, we were introduced to a wonderful program called Psychotherapy Matters, a company founded by a husband-and-wife team (just like us!) who set out to bridge the gap between psychiatric assessments and ongoing care. They recognized how difficult it had become to access a psychiatrist, and that when patients finally did, appointments were often brief due to overwhelming demand. They also understood the immense value of having therapists and psychiatrists work together collaboratively to ensure the best possible outcomes for clients. We’ve been fortunate to integrate this program into our services and have witnessed firsthand the incredible outcomes it can create for our clients. Because we often receive questions about how Psychotherapy Matters works and how clients can get involved, we wanted to take a moment to break down the process, so you can decide if this approach might be the right fit for you or your family. How It Works: To begin, you’ll start as a client with one of our therapists who is registered with the Psychotherapy Matters program. Typically, you’ll have 4–6 sessions with your therapist before a referral can be made. This allows the therapist to gain a strong understanding of your history, struggles, and goals, making the assessment process with the psychiatrist much smoother and more effective. After those initial sessions, your therapist will complete the referral documentation and send it to your family doctor for review and signature. If you don’t currently have a family doctor, we’ll work with you to explore alternative options. Once the referral is signed, it’s sent to Psychotherapy Matters for processing. After the referral is received and reviewed, your therapist will be able to access the booking portal and schedule your psychiatric assessment. Assessment appointments are typically booked about 6–8 weeks out, though wait times can vary depending on demand and psychiatrist availability. On the day of your appointment, you can either come into the office to meet with your therapist and connect virtually with the psychiatrist, or you can join the session from home, with your therapist also joining via telehealth. The assessment appointment usually lasts about two hours. The psychiatrist will spend the first 15 minutes consulting privately with your therapist to review your case before bringing you into the session. By the end of the appointment, a diagnosis (if applicable) will be provided, along with recommendations for medication, lifestyle changes, and therapeutic support. A detailed report will then be sent to your family doctor, and you can request a copy directly from their office. Final Thoughts [...]

My daughter was just four years old when we first sat in a psychiatrist's office. At that point, I knew nothing about mental health. I was still a child myself, having had my daughter at just 19 years old. All I knew was that something wasn’t right. As parents, we can’t always pinpoint exactly what’s going on with our children, but our instincts are powerful, and they’re often right. My daughter had been displaying behaviours that worried me, and our family doctor referred us to a psychiatrist. During that appointment, I was dismissed and told, condescendingly, that her behaviour was simply due to her father and I separating, and that she would “get over it.” I left that office feeling small and helpless, hoping that the psychiatrist was right, but deep down, I knew she wouldn’t “just get over it.” Years went by. Around age seven, things got much worse. My husband (her stepfather) and I decided to pay privately for a psychological assessment. She was diagnosed at age nine, and then… nothing. The assessment was done, the diagnosis was made, but no one knew what to do next. The psychologist tried to help, but the approach didn’t fit her needs. As her caregivers, we were exhausted and overwhelmed, yet no one offered support or guidance. It felt as though we had fallen through the cracks. During that time, we dreamed of a place where anyone, of any age, could access compassionate, effective mental health care and where caregivers were supported too. In January 2019, that dream became Brant Mental Health Solutions, and every day, we strive to make our clinic the kind of place we once needed. Now that you understand why this is so personal to me, I want to share some advice, so you can recognize the signs early and get your child the help they need. Here is a list of common signs that a child may be struggling with their mental health: Noticeable behavioural changes Decline in school performance (e.g., failing grades, missing homework) Emotional outbursts, especially anger Withdrawal from friends and family Aggression that feels out of proportion or unexpected Trouble sleeping, or sleeping excessively Restlessness Changes in eating habits (eating too much or too little) Vague physical complaints (headaches, stomach aches) that are not connected to anything medical While these behaviours can sometimes be part of normal development, if they persist, it’s worth seeking the help of a trained mental health professional. Trust your gut, it’s usually right. If your child is struggling, remember: Respond with calm, not punishment: When children act out due to emotional distress, our first instinct may be to discipline them but punishment can often make things worse. Stay calm, even when it’s hard. Talk openly about emotions: Encourage your child to express all their feelings, not just the “positive” ones. There are no bad emotions, each one has a purpose and deserves understanding and support. Release the guilt: If your child is struggling, [...]

It can feel daunting and overwhelming; your child’s first appointment with a therapist. Not only might your child be feeling anxious, but you probably are too. As a parent or caregiver, you naturally want to make that first session go as smoothly as possible. A big part of that is helping your child feel prepared and comfortable. Here are some helpful ways to support your child before their appointment: Talk them through what to expect: If your child is old enough, let them know where the appointment will take place. Being able to picture the location can make it feel less unknown.  Show them a picture of their therapist from our website so they can put a friendly face to the name.  Explain that the first appointment is mostly about getting to know each other. They’re welcome to have their parent(s) or caregiver join them for part (or all) of that first session and subsequent sessions if it helps them feel at ease.For younger children, let them know there will be toys, books, craft supplies, and other fun things to explore. Our child therapists take time to learn what each child enjoys and incorporate those interests into their sessions. Emphasize that it’s their appointment: Let your child know that therapy is a safe space where they can be honest about their feelings, but they don’t have to share anything until they’re ready. They can ask for you to come into the room or take a break at any time. The process is meant to be supportive, never stressful or overwhelming. Reassure them they’re not being “analyzed”: Many pre-teens and teens worry that therapy means being judged or “analyzed.” In reality, therapists are there to listen and support, not to diagnose or label. The goal is simply to build trust and connection so they can provide the best help possible. Review confidentiality together: Teens often worry about getting into trouble for what they share. Go over the confidentiality section of their intake paperwork with them, it explains when therapists are legally required to report something, such as safety concerns. The therapist will also review this at the first appointment to ensure your child understands. Normalize the experience: I often tell my own children that therapy is just like visiting your family doctor. When we have a physical health concern, we don’t think twice about booking an appointment, and there’s no stigma attached to it. Our mental health deserves that same care and attention. Remind your child that many people see therapists for support, and they’re not alone in doing so. I also share my own experiences with therapy and how helpful it has been for me, it helps children see that reaching out for support is a healthy, normal part of taking care of ourselves. Talk afterward—when they’re ready: After the appointment, let your child know you’re interested in how it went, but don’t push for details. You might say something like, “If you feel like [...]

As the holiday season approaches, many of us find ourselves surrounded by celebration—and often, by plenty of opportunities to drink. To help you navigate this time with more balance and intention, we’re sharing insights from both a psychotherapist and a holistic nutritionist. Together, they offer compassionate guidance and practical tools to support your mental and physical well-being—so you can enjoy the season in a way that truly feels good for you. A mental health perspective: The holidays often bring a mix of celebration, connection, and—let’s be honest—a fair bit of pressure. Between family gatherings, work parties, and cozy nights with friends, alcohol tends to flow freely. For many, this season can make it challenging to stay mindful about drinking habits or to maintain a sense of balance. Whether you’re sober, sober-curious, or simply wanting to be more intentional, it’s worth remembering that joy doesn’t have to come with a glass in hand. From a psychological perspective, drinking can sometimes serve as a form of emotional regulation. It can numb uncomfortable feelings, ease social anxiety, or help us feel temporarily more relaxed. But the effects are short-lived—alcohol often intensifies stress, disrupts sleep, and lowers mood over time. As a therapist, I often encourage clients to tune into what they’re really needing in those moments. Are you craving connection? Rest? Relief from pressure? Once you identify the underlying need, you can choose a response that truly nourishes it—whether that’s stepping outside for fresh air, slowing your breathing, or reaching out to someone you trust. Try approaching social situations with curiosity and compassion for yourself. You might practice grounding tools before events—taking a few deep breaths, setting an intention for how you want to feel, or planning ahead with a favorite mocktail in hand. Having an alcohol-free option helps you stay connected to your body and your boundaries, while still enjoying the social side of the season. If you’re looking for festive drinks that align with your wellness goals, our holistic nutritionist has created a few nourishing mocktail recipes below—each one designed to support your mood, hydration, and digestion while keeping your holiday spirits bright. Toasting to Good Health for the Holidays a Holistic Nutritionists perspective: Spending time with family, getting together with friends, or relaxing on the couch watching the snow fly — these are all wonderful times to treat yourself to a holiday beverage. Often, the drinks we reach for aren’t the healthiest options, but there are better choices out there! One of my favorite rules for the holidays is to enjoy a few treats here and there in moderation — you don’t have to walk away from the season feeling overwhelmed by overindulgence. Christmas Mocktail A great alcohol-free beverage to enjoy with friends or at any get-together: 4 ounces of kombucha (I love ginger!) 3 ounces of brewed and cooled tea (peppermint, cinnamon, or spiced) 1 ounce of cranberry juice Juice from ¼ of a lemon Serve over ice or as-is, with a slice of [...]

Bipolar disorder is often misunderstood as “mood swings,” but in reality, it’s a complex mental health condition that deeply affects how a person thinks, feels, and functions. Within this diagnosis, there are two main types; Bipolar I and Bipolar II, each with its own patterns of highs and lows. While both involve episodes of depression and elevated mood, the intensity, duration, and impact of these episodes can differ significantly. In this blog, we’ll break down what sets Bipolar I and Bipolar II apart, explore how they manifest in daily life, and discuss how to address Bipolar Disorder. Whether you’re seeking to understand your own experiences or support someone you care about, learning more about this disorder is the first step toward compassion, clarity, and better mental health. What is the difference between Bipolar 1 and 11? People with Bipolar I experience at least one full manic episode, an intense, high-energy state that can sometimes lead to psychosis or major disruptions in daily life. Those with Bipolar II, on the other hand, have hypomanic episodes that are less extreme but must also experience major depressive episodes. In other words, Bipolar I brings more intense highs, while Bipolar II often involves deeper and more persistent lows. Four main types of episodes in Bipolar: In bipolar disorder, mood changes can take different forms. There are four main types of episodes: Mania, Hypomania, Depression, Mixed episodes Each of these types comes with its own set of symptoms and experiences. Mania / Hypomania: During manic or hypomanic episodes, a person may feel extremely happy, energetic, or unusually irritable. They might need less sleep, talk more than usual, and jump quickly from one idea to another. These periods can also bring a sense of confidence or impulsivity that leads to risky behaviors, such as overspending, engaging in unsafe sexual activity, gambling, or using substances. While mania tends to be more intense and disruptive, hypomania involves similar symptoms on a milder scale. Depressive Episodes: Depressive episodes defined by National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH, 2019), include: Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or emotional emptiness A sense of hopelessness or negative thinking Irritability, frustration, or restlessness Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness Loss of interest or enjoyment in once-loved activities or hobbies Fatigue, low energy, or feeling physically and mentally slowed down Trouble concentrating, remembering things, or making decisions Changes in sleep patterns — sleeping too little, waking up early, or oversleeping Noticeable changes in appetite or weight, often without trying Unexplained physical symptoms like headaches, stomach problems, or muscle aches that don’t improve with treatment Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts Mixed Episodes: Mixed episodes involve experiencing symptoms of mania and depression at the same time. A person may feel full of energy yet feel sad, hopeless, or irritable. These conflicting emotions can be confusing and distressing, for example, someone might have racing thoughts and restlessness while also feeling tearful or empty. In some cases, moods can shift rapidly between [...]

In today’s fast-paced and often overwhelming world, mental health support is more important than ever. But for many individuals, accessing therapy outside the home can feel like just another stressful task. That’s where in-home counselling steps in, offering a personalized, convenient, and supportive alternative to traditional clinical settings. At the heart of our in-home counselling services is Shelley Hall, a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with many years of experience providing therapy in both clinical and home environments. Shelley brings a warm, compassionate, and client-centered approach to every session, ensuring that each person feels heard, respected, and supported in their journey toward wellness. What is In-Home Counselling? In-home counselling is professional mental health support delivered in the comfort and privacy of your own home. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, parenting concerns, or life transitions, this approach allows therapy to come to you, rather than the other way around. Why Choose In-Home Counselling? There are several powerful benefits to receiving therapy at home: 1. Comfort and Familiarity Your home is your safe space. Being in familiar surroundings can help reduce anxiety and allow you to open up more freely. It creates a relaxed atmosphere that fosters trust and deeper connection. 2. Accessibility and Convenience In-home counselling eliminates the need for travel, traffic, or time spent in waiting rooms. This is especially helpful for people with mobility issues, busy families, or anyone juggling demanding schedules. 3. Family and Relationship Support Sometimes the best way to support a person is to understand the environment they live in. In-home sessions can involve other household members (as appropriate) and offer a more holistic understanding of the dynamics at play. 4. Personalized, Tailored Care Because Shelley meets you where you are both physically and emotionally, she can provide more personalized insights and strategies that align with your daily life and environment. 5. Privacy and Discretion Some individuals feel hesitant about going to a public clinic or mental health facility. In-home counselling offers a discreet alternative for those who prefer more privacy around their mental health care. Meet Shelley: Shelley Hall is a Registered Social Worker with extensive experience in both clinical and in-home settings. Her therapeutic style is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based approaches tailored to each client’s unique needs. Shelley has worked with individuals across a wide range of concerns, and her ability to create a non-judgmental, supportive environment has made her a trusted professional in the field of mental health. Whether you're new to therapy or looking for a more flexible and personalized way to receive support, our in-home counselling service offers a compassionate path forward — right at your doorstep. For more information or to join our waitlist, reach out to us at 519.302.2300 or email reception@brantmentalhealth.com

I know. Even just seeing the word “suicide” can make your stomach drop. It’s one of those topics that instantly brings up fear, confusion, and that sinking feeling of “What if I say the wrong thing?” But here’s something important to remember: talking about suicide does not cause suicide. Silence, however, can make things much harder. As a therapist working with teens, I’ve learned that most young people who express suicidal thoughts don’t actually want to die. What they want is for the pain, shame, or loneliness they feel to stop. When they talk about wanting to “disappear” or “not wake up,” what they are really saying is, “I can’t find a way to live like this anymore.” And that is where we, as adults, come in. Not to fix it, but to understand it. Why Teens Think About Suicide Adolescence is an incredibly complex time. Teens are dealing with big emotions while their brains, especially the parts responsible for impulse control and decision-making, are still developing. They’re navigating pressure from school, social media, friendships, identity, and family expectations, often all at once. When a teen doesn’t have the language or support to express those emotions safely, the pain can turn inward. That’s often when suicidal thoughts start to surface. It’s not attention-seeking. It’s communication. What Suicidal Ideation Means (and Doesn’t Mean) Hearing that a teen is having suicidal thoughts doesn’t automatically mean they are in immediate danger, but it does mean they are suffering deeply. Suicidal ideation exists on a spectrum. Sometimes it’s fleeting, like “I wish I could just go to sleep and not wake up.” Other times, it becomes more persistent or specific, involving a plan or intent. Either way, these thoughts deserve to be taken seriously. They are a signal that something inside needs care, not dismissal. What You Can Do as a Parent or Caregiver If you suspect or know your teen is struggling, here’s how to start the conversation, even if it feels awkward or scary: Start from curiosity, not fear. You might say, “I’ve noticed you’ve seemed really down lately. Sometimes when people feel like that, they start to think about not wanting to be here. Have you felt that way?” It’s okay if the words feel clumsy. What matters most is your willingness to ask. Listen more than you talk. Try to resist the urge to reassure or fix things right away. Teens need to feel heard before they can hear hope. Silence, gentle nodding, or saying “That sounds really painful” can be powerful. Stay calm. Even if you feel panicked inside, try to stay grounded. Teens often worry that telling an adult will lead to overreaction or punishment, so showing calmness helps build trust. Take all talk of suicide seriously. Even if it sounds casual or sarcastic, check in. It’s always better to ask too many times than not at all. Get professional support. You don’t have to do this alone. Reach out to a mental [...]

Family structures have evolved, and today, “family” can mean many different things. Blending two families or entering into a second marriage brings both excitement and challenges. While new beginnings offer hope, they also uncover complex emotional dynamics such as differing parenting styles, unspoken expectations, unresolved grief, or difficulty adjusting to new roles. Family therapy can be a powerful resource during these transitions, offering support, communication tools, and a safe space to navigate change together. Why Family Therapy Matters in Blended Families When two families come together after divorce, separation, or loss, each person brings their own emotions and experiences. Children may feel uncertain or torn between parents. Adults may carry guilt, loyalty, conflicts, or unresolved pain from past relationships. Family therapy supports blended families by: Creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where everyone can express feelings openly. Improving communication to prevent misunderstandings from turning into long-term conflict. Clarifying family roles and boundaries to reduce confusion and tension. Fostering empathy and trust among step-siblings, co-parents, and new partners. Teaching conflict-resolution skills to handle disagreements in healthy, constructive ways. Tips for Couples in Second Marriages & Blended Families 1. Take It Slow Relationships take time to grow. Don’t rush closeness, allow children and extended family to adjust at their own pace. 2. Practice Self-Care You’re not expected to have all the answers. Be gentle with yourself when the family struggles to connect. The more grounded you are, the better support you can offer others. 3. Focus on the Little Joys Instead of focusing on what you’ve lost or left behind, look for the small moments of connection, humor, and joy in your new family dynamic. 4. Create New Traditions Blend the past with the present. While respecting old family rituals, start new traditions unique to your blended family, whether it's a Sunday breakfast, holiday outing, or movie night. 5. Respect Past Relationships Children may continue to love and miss their other parent and that’s okay. Supporting those feelings doesn’t diminish your role in their lives. 6. Stay United as a Couple Consistency is key. Present a united front when it comes to parenting and family decisions. Discuss disagreements privately to maintain stability for the children. 7. Prioritize One-on-One Time Spend intentional time with each family member: your partner, your biological children, and your stepchildren. Individual relationships build trust and connection. 8. Seek Professional Guidance Family therapy isn’t just for when things are going wrong. It can proactively strengthen the family foundation, provide communication strategies, and prevent small issues from becoming major ones. The Bottom Line Blended families and second marriages can thrive with time, communication, and intentional support. Family therapy offers a pathway to understanding, healing, and building a shared future. Every blended family is unique, and while challenges are inevitable, so are opportunities for deeper connection, growth, and lasting love. With patience and openness, your blended family can become not just a household but a true home. This blog was written by Registered Social Worker, Kunle Ifabiyi. [...]

Change is rarely simple. Even the changes we know are good- like leaving a job that no longer fits, ending a relationship that isn’t right, moving into a home we’ve dreamed of - can carry a surprising weight. You might feel relief, excitement, or hope for the future, and at the same time notice an undercurrent of sadness, nostalgia, or even guilt. You might catch yourself thinking, “Why am I crying if this is supposed to be a positive change?” If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and it’s not a sign that something is wrong with you. In my work as a psychotherapist, I see many people navigating this paradox: the mix of joy and grief that comes when life shifts in a way that’s ultimately healthy, but also unfamiliar. Recognizing and understanding these emotions is not only normal, but it’s an essential part of integrating change in a meaningful way. The Paradox of Grief in Positive Change Grief doesn’t only happen after death. Every time we step away from what was familiar, there is a part of ourselves, a chapter of our life, or a vision of the future that we mourn. Divorce is one of the clearest examples: ending a marriage might be the healthiest decision for both partners, but it also brings a very real sense of loss. You may feel relief, freedom, or hope for the life ahead, and yet find yourself missing shared routines, special memories, or the “what could have been.” This paradox exists in so many life changes: starting a new job, moving to a city you’ve always wanted to live in, sending a child off to school or university. On paper, everything seems like progress, and yet inside, your mind and body register that something familiar has ended. That sadness, nostalgia, or uncertainty doesn’t mean you’ve made the wrong choice- it means you are human, adapting to a new reality while honoring the past. Why Feeling Both Relief and Grief Makes Sense When we take a closer look at the brain and body, it makes sense that even positive change feels emotionally intense. New routines, responsibilities, and environments activate the stress response, even when we consciously want the change. Hormonal shifts, disrupted sleep, and the body’s natural response to uncertainty can all amplify emotion. Psychologically, you may be negotiating two competing truths: I am moving forward, and I am leaving something meaningful behind. Holding these truths at once can feel confusing, even destabilizing, but it is a sign that your nervous system is attuned, sensitive, and responsive to the significance of your life. Think of grief as a bridge. It connects who you were, what you valued, and the life you leave behind with who you are becoming. Feeling sadness alongside excitement doesn’t erase progress. It enriches it. It allows you to step forward more fully, carrying your past with awareness instead of avoidance. How to Hold Complexity With Compassion When clients come to me experiencing [...]