2024 - CBT Wellness & Virtual Services

Managing Back to School Anxiety

bassem@greenlotus.ca (Bassem Ghali) — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 15:49:40 GMT

1. Talk About It

Talk your kids/teenagers about what is going to happen and what they can expect

2. Practice the Morning Routine

Pre-walk or drive the route to school. Go through all the steps together so there are no surprises

3. Give them Choices

Provide 2 options so they feel in control. For example, Ie “ for breakfast, do you want yogurt with berries or cereal with fruit?”. The more they feel in control, the better

4. Create a Visual Schedule to Establish the New Routine

Many of us are visual learners. Having multiple cues can make the routine less stressful for everyone

5. Review the Coping Skills Toolbox

One of the terms our therapists often use with clients (more so children and teenagers) is their toolbox. Throughout therapy, we try to expand upon their current healthy coping skills and teach them new ways to cope/adapt. Remind them (and yourself) of the healthy coping skills that they can easily access (ie square breathing, 5-4-3-2-1, positive self talk). You can also write these down so they are easier for them to remember

6. Practice the Coping Skills Together

Be a positive role model and practice the emotional regulation skills together. Have this be part of the routine. It also helps to normalize it. For example, before the kids get out of the car in the morning, take a deep breath together and repeat “today is going to be a good day. I can do this!”

7. Remind Yourself of Past Challenges you have Overcome

As human beings we are constantly being bombarded with changes (although there may be more now than ever before). You have dealt with adversity before, and have gotten through it. You will be able to get through this too. If, you felt like you did not cope well before, reflect upon this and book an appointment with a therapist to discuss how to cope in a healthier way

8. Talk to a Therapist

Book an appointment for yourself and/or your child/teen if you/your child/teen are feeling overly stressed, anxious, having trouble sleeping or unlike yourself. Our expert team of therapists will be able to identify the cause for complaint, and determine the right course of action that suits your needs.

You can get started on your path to improved wellness and learn strategies individualizes to your unique situation, by booking a free consultation on our website with one of our therapists.

Does Online Therapy Actually Work?

bassem@greenlotus.ca (Bassem Ghali) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 16:30:13 GMT

Does Online Therapy Actually Work? Debunking Common Myths & Misconceptions about Online Therapy

The short answer is YES, online therapy is effective.

However, there are some common myths and misconceptions about online therapy. Lets discuss those why they are not true.

Myth #1: Online Therapy Is Not As Effective As Office-Based Therapy

Fact: Online therapy is just as effective as in person

Similar to communicating online to loved ones who live far away or staying virtually connected to your career while you work from home, it is possible to develop a connection to a therapist online and receive effective virtual therapy treatments. In fact, research has found that telepath therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling sessions. Many studies have discovered that clients who received virtual therapy had almost identical outcomes to those who received in-person therapy. Therefore, meeting a therapist online does not correlate to receiving less effective treatment. Rather, finding a therapist that is the right fit for you and understands how to help you reach your specific needs, is more important to your mental health journey.

Myth #2 I Won’t Be Able to Connect With My Therapist During Online Therapy

Fact: Therapists foster connections virtually

Many people assume that being in the same physical environment with a therapist will allow for better understanding and connection. While this can be true for some individuals, it is also common to create a deep therapeutic relationship with a therapist through video counseling or teletherapy. In fact, many people find it easier and more beneficial to connect with their therapist through an online portal, especially for those who experience social anxiety. Having therapy sessions in the comfort of your own home can provide increased relaxation and privacy, which may encourage readiness to be open and honest compared to being in spaces that are unfamiliar to you. If you struggle with social anxiety, or prefer the convenience of setting up therapy sessions from home, then online therapy could be a good fit for you.

Myth #3 Online Therapy Is Not As Secure Or Private As In-Person Counseling

Fact: Online therapy is secure

Therapists, social workers, counselors, and clinicians are bound by ethical codes of conduct specific to their governing body. It is a fundamental component of all mental health services, including online sessions, to practice ethically and in accordance with strict professional standards. Everything that is discussed during online therapy remains completely confidential. The therapist should also do everything they can to protect the client’s privacy. They will ensure that they are set up in a private room, away from other individuals and distractions. It is also in the control of the client to ensure they are protecting their privacy as well. Before a session, it is important to consider what steps are needed to receive the most privacy and benefits.

Myth #4 My Insurance Won’t Cover Online Therapy

Fact: Insurance Companies Cover Services Provided Virtually

Many mental health services have adapted to providing online services, especially during and after Covid-19 and insurance companies recognize this. If you reside in Ontario, the costs of services will not be covered by OHIP, however, many Canadian Extended Health Benefit programs and companies do offer coverage of online therapy! At CBT Wellness and Virtual Services, our services are frequently covered (or partly covered) by Insurance Companies including (but not limited to) Sunlife, Medavie Blue Cross, Greenshield, Empire, Desjardins, and Manulife. It is encouraged that you check with your insurance regarding the amount covered, percentage covered, credentials needed (MSW, RSW, RP, RD, ND), and renewal dates when researching online therapy options. This information and additional details are often found on the website of your insurance provider or by contacting the insurance company directly.

Do you have questions or concerns regarding virtual services? Our admin team and our skilled clinicians are here to help and are happy to answer any questions you might have. Reach out today! For other services like Menopause symptoms relief or premenopause and menopause treatment in Cornwall and Hawkesbury , do not hesitate to call or book an appointment with us!

Does Online Therapy Actually Work?

bassem@greenlotus.ca (Bassem Ghali) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 02:03:00 GMT

Does Online Therapy Actually Work? Debunking Common Myths & Misconceptions about Online Therapy

The short answer is YES, online therapy is effective.

However, there are some common myths and misconceptions about online therapy. Lets discuss those why they are not true.

Myth #1: Online Therapy Is Not As Effective As Office-Based Therapy

Fact: Online therapy is just as effective as in person

Therefore, meeting a therapist online does not correlate to receiving less effective treatment. Rather, finding a therapist that is the right fit for you and understands how to help you reach your specific needs, is more important to your mental health journey.

Myth #2 I Won’t Be Able to Connect With My Therapist During Online Therapy

 Fact: Therapists foster connections virtually

Myth #3 Online Therapy Is Not As Secure Or Private As In-Person Counseling

 Fact: Online therapy is secure

Myth #4 My Insurance Won’t Cover Online Therapy

Fact: Insurance Companies Cover Services Provided Virtually

Do you have questions or concerns regarding virtual services? Our admin team and our skilled clinicians are here to help and are happy to answer any questions you might have. Reach out today!

The post Does Online Therapy Actually Work? appeared first on CBT Wellness & Virtual Services .

Managing Back to School Anxiety

bassem@greenlotus.ca (Bassem Ghali) — Sun, 01 Sep 2024 20:58:00 GMT

Managing Back to School Anxiety

It is hard to believe that summer is almost over and September is right around the corner. With this comes many mixed emotions for all of us: excitement, sadness, happiness, fear but most of all anxiety.

The start of a new school year can trigger anxiety in children and teenagers, but also for parents. This is normal and to be expected.

September is a period of change and transition. Changes can be tough! The good news? We have some strategies to help make these easier on your whole family.

1. Talk About It

Talk your kids/teenagers about what is going to happen and what they can expect

2. Practice the Morning Routine

3. Give them Choices

Provide 2 options so they feel in control. For example, Ie “ for breakfast, do you want yogurt with berries or cereal with fruit?”. The more they feel in control, the better

4. Create a Visual Schedule to Establish the New Routine

Many of us are visual learners. Having multiple cues can make the routine less stressful for everyone

5. Review the Coping Skills Toolbox

6. Practice the Coping Skills Together

7. Remind Yourself of Past Challenges you have Overcome

8. Talk to a Therapist

You can get started on your path to improved wellness and learn strategies individualizes to your unique situation, by booking a free consultation on our website with one of our therapists.

The post Managing Back to School Anxiety appeared first on CBT Wellness & Virtual Services .

Benefits of Virtual Services

bassem@greenlotus.ca (Bassem Ghali) — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 02:24:00 GMT

At CBT Wellness and Virtual Services, we are happy to provide all of our services virtually-through phone calls or secure video chats-by experienced and trained health professionals. While virtual treatment options have been proven to be equally effective as face-to-face therapies, there are also numerous benefits in participating in wellness services through a virtual portal.

The benefits of virtual services include

The greatest benefit of online therapy is the convenience of having sessions in the comfort of your own home, thereby saving you time and money. This can be especially true for individuals with busy schedules, as well as for those who live in small towns or remote areas, have mobility issues where you may not be able to access services otherwise. There is also no need to arrange childcare or babysitting, find/pay for parking, coordinate public transportation routes etc.

Some patients have also reported that they find it easier to open up and feel less stigmatized via the phone or video, than it would be in person. Many patients feel more comfortable staying in their own familiar, safe space while doing sessions.

*If you do not have the luxury of a safe space at your place of residence, let us know and we are happy to discuss alternative arrangements that may work for you.

Another benefit of virtual wellness services is the speed of operations. In fact, CBT Wellness and Virtual Services has no waitlists and can schedule you in for a same day and next day appointments. All clinicians offer free 15-minute virtual consultations. It has never been easier, safer, and more convenient to start your health and wellness journey!

Reach out today to see how you might benefit from online therapy!

The post Benefits of Virtual Services appeared first on CBT Wellness & Virtual Services .

Valentine’s Day Self-Love

bassem@greenlotus.ca (Bassem Ghali) — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 20:34:00 GMT

The post Valentine’s Day Self-Love appeared first on CBT Wellness & Virtual Services .

Taking Back Control Over Our Thoughts

bassem@greenlotus.ca (Bassem Ghali) — Sat, 02 Apr 2022 14:19:00 GMT

The post Taking Back Control Over Our Thoughts appeared first on CBT Wellness & Virtual Services .