At Napanee Psychotherapy, we strive to bring you counselling and psychotherapy services that meet your unique needs. We are committed to person and family-centered care that works with you as the expert of your life. Collectively, we strongly value collaboration, compassion and innovation as we endeavor to bring you meaningful and transformative care. Napanee Psychotherapy is a group of independent psychotherapists who work together to create a safe and inviting space for you to access a wide range of mental health counselling and therapy services.
Mental Health Therapy Services in Napanee
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Individual Therapy
ButtonWhether you are looking to process trauma, manage your emotions or work toward living by your value system, we will work together to develop and strengthen skills to achieve your goals.
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Family Therapy
ButtonDrawing from attachment-based and emotion-focused family therapies, family therapy aims to improve communication, build trust and resolve conflict within the family system.
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Supervision and Consultation
ButtonGeneral supervision and consultation is available to clinicians and students. My training background is predominantly emotion focused, attachment and family therapy focused, trauma focused approaches.
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Our Psychotherapists
Cassandra Millen MSW, RSW
Co-Lead
Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist
Certified EFFT Therapist , Certified Trauma Specialist, Eating Disorder Specialist
Cassandra is a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist and specializes in trauma, eating disorders and family therapy with additional focus on anxiety, grief, emotion processing, perfectionism, OCD and supporting caregivers of loved ones with mental health challenges. Cassandra offers individual therapy for individuals ages 12 years +. Cassandra also offers clinical supervision and is approved for CRPO.
Stacey Dowling M.A.
Co-Lead
Registered Psychotherapist
Accredited Cool Kids Anxiety and Depression Provider, Certified Trauma Therapist
Stacey is a Registered Psychotherapist who specializes in trauma, anxiety, grief, emotion processing and stress management. Stacey offers individual therapy for individuals ages 11 years+. Stacey also offers clinical supervision and is approved for CRPO.
Deborah Vanberkel
Registered Psychotherapist
Deborah is a registered psychotherapist with CRPO and has been providing clinical services in urban and rural areas for 20yrs. She specializes in addiction, stress, anxiety, and depression and has recently focused on farmer mental health for the past 5 years.
Stephanie Black M.A.
Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying)
Stephanie is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology. Stephanie specializes in Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Anger Management, Addiction Concerns, Stress and Relationship Difficulties. She works with individuals, couples, kids/teens and welcomes those in the LGBTQ+2 community.
Trisha Nelson
Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying)
Trisha is a registered psychotherapist (Qualifying) and specializes in grief, trauma, and anxiety. She provides individual therapy for eating disorders, emotion regulation problems, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anger management, and low self-esteem. Her career started as a nurse and has evolved into working with people with learning and intellectual disabilities; she now specializes in counselling a variety of populations targeting mental health issues.
Jessica Bolduc
Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying)
Jessica is a Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying) currently completing her internship with Cassandra. Jessica has nearly 20 years experience working in the education system and has a passion for working with youth and for anxiety, emotion regulation, low mood, navigating difficult stressors, low mood and self-esteem.
Sarah Long
Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying)
Sarah is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) completing her practicum with Stacey. She is passionate about helping people heal past wounds and create meaningful change in their lives. Her person-centered approach centers on relationships, recognizing their pivotal role in healing. Through her lived experience as an entrepreneur, she has a special interest in farmer’s mental health, navigating chronic stress, anxiety, burnout, and relational dynamics. Sarah offers individual therapy to preteens, teens, and adults.
Anita Mikaelian
Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying)
Anita is a Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying) currently completing her internship with Cassandra. Anita is driven to offer a warm, compassionate, and trauma-informed space for you to work toward your goals. Anita uses an integrative approach to therapy in order to meet your unique needs. Anita works with youth, teens, adults and couples and with a focus on anxiety, depression, stress management, self-harm, emotion regulation, addiction, and grief. In her personal life, Anita is passionate about her family and adventure!
What's Happening?
Opportunities
We are always offering new opportunities to join our team or placement experience. Please contact us for more information
Our Specialties
Therapy can be both challenging and enlightening. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable space that will lend itself kindly to enhancing self-awareness and building on your strengths in order to reach your goals.
Workshops & Presentations
Basic counselling workshops and presentations are available to workplaces.
Please inquire about topics of interest.
Join the community
#NAPANEEPSYCHOTHERAPY
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Whew - that’s a hard hitter. Your response may change depending on the person/relationship. Whichever you are more affected by, how do you respond behaviourally? Knowing our default responses to intense (emotional) experiences is a necessary step to moving toward change. #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygk #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellnessButton -
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We will give you the Cole’s Notes (anyone remember those gems?!) Early trauma and stress cause the nervous system to shut down as a form of self-protection. As we shut-down, we disconnect and as we disconnect, our emotional experiences linked to chronic stress or early trauma need somewhere to go. Cue somatic (bodily felt) symptoms. #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygw #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellness #traumatherapy #somatictherapyButton -
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After a long stressful day, have you ever just sat on the floor petting your faithful companion and began to feel better. This is not a coincidence or your dog’s magical power, this actually has research that has shown that petting a dog lowers the stress cortisol and increases the ‘feel-good’ hormone oxytocin. Now we know why dog’s are often called a ‘man’s best friend’. #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygk #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellnessButton -
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✨ Are you burning the candle at both ends? ✨ Have you made too many commitment? ✨ Are you feeling like you’re wound too right? Here are a few quick tips to help calm your body and create some release in those sneaky spaces in our body that hood on to our stress and tension. #napaneepsychotherapy #psychotherapy #socialwork #counselling #counsellingpsychology #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #napanee #kingstonButton -
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MAY you have the ability this month to try something new and try something for you. See what we did there? #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygk #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellnessButton -
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There are many useful ways to release stress and tension from your body. We’ve given a short description of a few to get you started. Continue following for more on the neuroscience behind these later! Comment below with your favourites! #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygk #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellnessButton -
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Did you know that warmth is one of the easiest and most effective ways to settle your nervous system? Think of the feeling you have when you sit outside in the warm sun, the cozy feeling of a blanket, the relaxation of a warm bath, your favourite warm drink (latte, London Fog anyone??). Take a minute and think of how you can create some soothing in your life today. #napaneepsychotherapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #counsellingpsychotherapy #yourgreaternapanee #wellnessButton -
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Real talk: we struggle with confidence too! Confidence is often minimised to believing in yourself or believing ‘good’ about yourself. What if we told you that this is only a small part of confidence? In order to bridge the gap between what we know and what we feel, we need to tend to these five pillars: Emotion regulation Setting boundaries Self-validation Self-compassion Positive self-talk Which of these pillars do you struggle with most? Comment below! #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygw #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellnessButton -
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There are many reasons why someone might start therapy. This list is not exhaustive by any means and if your reasons aren’t on this list, it doesn’t mean they aren’t valid. The point is - therapy may or may not be for you but it has to be FOR you. #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygk #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellnessButton -
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Happy Earth Day! 🌎 What music on nature’s playlist are you listening to today? Consider this your gentle reminder to tune into your world around you. It might surprise you. #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygw #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellness #earthday #glimmersButton -
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Did you know it’s Canadian Fertility Awareness Week? Most likely someone you know has struggled with fertility. At Napanee Psychotherapy we are so happy to support this initiative by Fertility Matters. Let’s keep the conversation going. #cfaw #cfaw2024 #counsellingpsychology #fertilitymatters #mentalhealth #griefsupport #miscarriageawarenessButton -
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As you know, at Napanee Psychotherapy we often have the privilege of having psychotherapy interns work with us. Psychotherapy interns are trained therapists who are required to complete a certain number of hours under the direct supervision of a senior, approved therapist, similar to a medical residency. We are excited to share that Sarah Long and Anita Mikaelin will be starting with us in May and will offer both virtual and in-person appointments. Reach out through our website or to napaneepsychotherapy@gmail.com to schedule an appointment. #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygw #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellness #internshipButton -
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Great question! As a Part Two to our last post - we wanted to tackle this one for you too! If you recognize that therapy may be helpful and also know you aren’t ready - celebrate your honesty with yourself. You can’t see us but we are here applauding you for that! Then, ask yourself what you can learn from your hesitancy to engage. #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygw #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellnessButton -
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We get it. Therapy can be a big step and a big committment. And readiness for that is ultra important. Wondering if now is the time? Check in on these considerations and see what you learn! #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygw #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellnessButton -
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Cynthia and Larissa started their internships in September 2023. This week, they are finishing up and will officially move on to the next phase of their practice. We firmly believe that if we aren’t learning alongside you, we are missing something and we have learned a lot from both of these wonderful humans! Cynthia will be establishing her private practice in her hometown of Embrun, Ontario and Larissa will continue to see clients in Napanee one day per week!. It has been such a privilege to have Larissa and Cynthia at Napanee Psychotherapy and we are so excited to watch you grow in your own private practices! Wishing you both all the best! #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygw #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellnessButton -
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Journaling may not be for everyone and that’s okay. If it isnt your thing, reflect on these instead! #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygw #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellnessButton -
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Plan and simple: unprocessed emotions are unprocessed not unacquired. They stay in the body, until they have no choice but to make their way up to the mind. Que overthinking. Next time you find yourself in your own head, ask yourself what you might be (emotionally) avoiding! #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygw #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellnessButton -
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Is documentation taking up a lot of space in your brain and time in your life? We’ve been there too. Join Cassandra for this two part Workshop May 17 & 30, 2024 aimed at enhancing documentation skills, brief case conceptualization skills and ethical considerations. Cassandra has been part of developing documentation guidelines in local health care settings as well as provincially and is well versed in CRPO and OCSWSSW standards. To register, contact Cassandra@firstlighttherapy.ca. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #grief #anxiety #boundarysmatter #kingstonmentalhealth #community #yorkvilleuniversityButton -
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We focus a looooot on emotions in this space. Why? Because they are universally experienced (to an extent). The urges and needs associated with sadness, for example, are no different whether you grew up in Napanee, Ontario or Napanee, Mississippi (the only other Napanee in the world by the way!). You may view or “deal” with sadness differently, but the needs attached and how it generally shows up in your body are the same, no matter who or where you are. #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygw #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellnessButton -
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Healing is our ability to understand what we need, when we need it. There’s a harmful misconception that “doing the work” means nothing gets to us, ever again. Unfortunately, this can lead us to obsess over healing. We’re here to say - It will - you will be impacted or triggered again and it will be different. You can be impacted and have a different understanding that allows you to work with it differently - whatever “it” is. #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygw #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellnessButton -
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In case you haven’t caught our drift, the goal isn’t to turn off what we’re feeling. Humans aren’t hardwired to do this - it just shows up in some other way. What you can do is honour it and work with it. This might look like “I am overwhelmed and it’s okay to ask for help with some things” OR “I am overwhelmed and I am allowed to be human”. No, these won’t necessarily make you feel ‘better’. They might remind you that it can’t stay like this forever which is the safety that your brain is looking for. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #grief #anxiety #boundarysmatter #kingstonmentalhealth #communityButton -
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Pretty much every person we see will hear this spiel at one point or another. These things are crucial for overall nervous system regulation AND for optimization of your therapy. Sometimes we simply have tough days…and we can make small changes to help that along. You would be surprised at the difference you see when you start paying attention to this. #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #yourygw #yourgreaternapanee #counsellingpsychology #wellnessButton -
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It is important to acknowledge that while any traumatic event is stressful, stress alone does not equal trauma. Stress dysregulates us. Trauma rewires our brain. Understanding the difference is necessary. #traumahealing #traumarecovery #trauma #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthsupport #mentalhealthcounseling #counseling #counsellingpsychology #counselorsofinstagramButton -
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Ever get hard on yourself when things feel like they aren’t changing? Yeah, us too! Human brains are buckets of neuroplasticity, meaning they are changing all the time but it takes a loottt of practice. We’ll say it again - consistency and repetition! AND be kind to yourself along the way! #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #mentalwellness #mentalhealthsupport #mentalwellbeing #brainhealth #brainpowerButton -
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Meet Jes! Jessica Bolduc is a Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying) who started an internship with Cassandra on April 1. Jes has been supervised by Cassandra since January and currently splits her time between Napanee Psychotherapy and a wellness collaborative in Kingston. Jes embraces a person-centred, compassionate and integrative approach aimed to meet your goals and needs. With nearly 20 years experience working in the education system, Jes has a passion for working with teens and youth with anxiety, emotion regulation, navigating difficult stressors, low mood, and perfectionism. Jes offers virtual and in-person appointments in Napanee. In her spare time, Jes enjoys being in the sun, all things plants, and running. During Covid, Jes tested her brain power and decided to run a 1/2 marathon - and she did it!! Inquire today about reduced rate services with Jes through the Napanee Psychotherapy webpage, by email at JesBtherapy@gmail.com or through cassandra@firstlighttherapy.ca.Button -
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This is NO JOKE!! We know - some of these might feel silly or too simple. And we still dare you to try. April is often a transitional month in so many ways and it is also a great month for Awe moments (blooms, starry nights, spring babies anyone?!). What do you love about April? #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #mentalwellness #mentalwellbeing #counsellingpsychology #counsellingservices #psychotherapyButton -
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When someone is experiencing sadness, pain or grief. They want comfort. Rarely is that found in the “At leasts”. “At least they’re in a better place” when a loved one has died. “At least you know you can still get pregnant” after a miscarriage. “At least you have another child” after death of a child. “At least it’s not cancer” after a different chronic diagnosis. “At least you have a good job” when a financial burden sets in. Catch our drift? We’ve totally done this too. Because human nature sets in and we don’t want to see someone we care about in pain. The reality is, there are no ‘fixes’ and your presence can be enough. #miscarriageawareness #miscarriagesupport #cancersupport #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #griefsupport #griefawareness #mentalwellbeing #mentalwellnessButton -
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Listen - we do it too. We fight back tears, we bottle up our anger (and sometimes explode), we don’t talk about the parts of ourselves that we wish didn’t exist or occur - emotions are hard, especially in the (generally) emotionally avoidant or resistance climate we live in. We also know that there are helpful and unhelpful ways to talk about anger, appropriate and inappropriate people to share our shame and traumas with and there is a time and a place to express other emotions. This is not an open invitation to share every detail with every person. This is a kind reminder to pay attention to what’s going on for you and consider how you can let your experience it. #counsellingpsychology #counselors #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #anxiety #nervoussystem #resentmentButton -
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Our responses to built up resentment can be unfavourable; but the emotional experience is not ‘bad’. Like most other emotional experiences, it’s a hint at something we need or want. Noticing resentment? Show it some curiosity! #resentment #relationships #relationshipgoals #relationshipadvice #relationshipproblems #relationshiptips #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #counsellingpsychology #counsellingservicesButton -
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OK so we may have the quote a little wrong here - to be honest, this was in a podcast with Dax Shepherd and we can’t remember who he quoted haha. And no, we’re not going pop psychology here - this is fundamental to pretty much every relationally based conversation we have with clients and it gets to the point. Also, we bet a celeb shoutout in your scroll of this page got your attention. The point is, fighting and conflict are a NORMAL part of ALL relationships. If you are human, in a relationship with ANYONE, there is going to be conflict. HOW you work through that conflict is what matters. Are you willing to listen? Are you willing to be accountable? Are you willing to consider alternatives? Are you willing to play fair and respectful? Consider this the next time you find yourself toe-to-toe with the meaningful person(s) in your life. #mentalhealth #conflictresolution #conflictmanagement #relationshipgoals #relationshipquotes #relationshipadvice #relationshipproblems #counsellingpsychology #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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Swipe to learn more ➡️➡️➡️ #mentalhealth #ruminatingthoughts #rumination #anxietyrelief #anxietyawareness #anxietyrecovery #anxietytips #thoughts #counsellingpsychology #counselorButton -
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Swipe to learn more ➡️➡️➡️ #relaxationmassage #mentalhealth #anxietyrelief #anxietysupport #anxietyawareness #anxietytips #mentalhealthsupport #counsellingpsychologyButton -
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The mind and body are connected and this is often forgotten when we are trying to understand a physical symptom that just won’t go away, despite being to doctors and having tests that provide an “all clear”. Sometimes we have to look to the mind to see what is going on. Are you feeling stressed by your work or experiencing a situation where you are feeling that you have no escape. The body will hold this reality, even when we are trying to cope or manage this stressful event. Helping your body with diaphragmatic breathing, grounding exercises and turning on your saliva glands will help regulate your body, even when your mind is not. #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #counsellingpsychology #counselor #mentalhealthsupportButton -
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It’s the spring equinox and we couldn’t have said it better. Here’s your gentle reminder that dirt is necessary for growth. 🌱🪴 #firstdayofspring #personalgrowth #mentalhealth #newbeginnings #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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This is a really tricky reality. Many times we want to believe that time heals. Think of how many times, you hear that when you go through a painful experience. Time only allows trauma to find a place in our body if we choose to never acknowledge it, hide away from it or dissociate from it. When trauma finds a place in our body, our bodies find a state of survival and this makes our bodies more jumpy, our anxiety to heighten and our bodies to become cranky with headaches, stomach and digestive issues and increases in illnesses and infections. So what do you do? We need to heal from our traumas and learn how to address our body and our interpretations of the events related to the trauma. Once we take back some power over the trauma, our symptoms begin to settle and our thinking begins to change to more adaptive and comforting themes. #traumarecovery #traumahealing #traumasurvivor #traumainformed #mentalhealthsupport #mentalhealthmatters #counsellingpsychology #counsellingButton -
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Personal growth: “I am allowed to move past the things and people who no longer bring positivity to my life.” New beginnings: “Everything is unfolding in perfect timing. I trust. I believe. I receive it.” Self-care: “I am stronger than anxiety.” Calm: “I have made it through hard times before.” Confidence: “I am confident things will work out even if I’m struggling right now.” Although these statements are sometimes hard to begin with, it is important to reframe our thinking to create hope. When our brains are left to its own devices, it will often negatively scan our environment and look for validations of negativity and what is going wrong. We need to acknowledge our brain’s tendency and work with it. You can do it! #mentalhealth #counsellingpsychology #counsellor #counsellors #mentalhealthawareness #affirmations #affirmationoftheday #affirmationpositiveButton -
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Life is hard and emotions can be difficult to navigate. Similar to a virus or infection, our systems will experience dysregulation and require treatment or medication to begin to feel better. Our minds are no different, coming to therapy to discuss a problem that is affecting our life or symptoms that are impacting our normal functioning require the same amount of care, treatment and support. Don’t minimize the mind/body connection. Seeking help is NOT weak. Seeking help is NOT embarrassing. It is as important as treating your physical health. Don’t leave your mind behind. #stigma # mentalhealth #therapyButton -
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Meet your Napanee Psychotherapy team! A collective of Psychotherapists dedicated to community, collaboration and excellence in person-centred care. Together we have a wide range of expertise and a passionate commitment to continued learning and growth in order to provide you with the support you need and deserve. Napanee Psychotherapy has some big things planned for 2024. Stay tuned ✨ L to R: Cassandra, Trisha, Stephanie, Deb and Stacey. 📸 @amelieacmills #napaneepsychotherapy #psychotherapy #yourgreaternapanee #counselling #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #counsellingpsychologyButton -
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Sometimes people just don’t get us, no matter how hard we try to explain ourselves. It’s like trying to explain the plot of your favourite movie to someone who’s never seen it…they just don’t quite get it! And you know what? That’s okay. Trying to control or change someone’s assumptions about you is like trying to put a square in a round hole – exhausting and totally pointless. So, instead of stressing over how others perceive you, just focus on staying true to yourself. Life’s too short to be someone you’re not just to please others. So rock on, stay true to yourself, and let the world see the awesome person you are, no explanations needed. #authenticity #beyourself #beyourbestself #mentalhealth #staytruetoyourself #staytruetoyou #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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Dealing with conflict can be REALLY tricky sometimes… It’s like trying to find your way through a maze blindfolded! And you know what? There are definitely some things that can just make it all worse. It’s like pouring fuel on a fire, not fun at all. But there ARE things you can do to make it a bit easier on yourself. It’s important to take a step back, inhale, exhale, and try to see things from their point of view. Communication is also key too…it’s about responding in a calm and respectful way while still protecting your boundaries. What’s your biggest challenge when it comes to navigating conflict? Share with us via DMs or in the comments! #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #conflictresolution #conflictmanagement #relationshipadviceButton -
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Compassion involves understanding and empathizing with someone’s struggles, acknowledging their humanity, and recognizing their worth. Compassion means supporting WITHOUT condoning harmful actions, balancing empathy with accountability for healing and growth. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #anxiety #boundarysmatter #boundaries #communityButton -
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Let’s flip the script! While red flags are important to recognize, let’s celebrate the green flags that build strong, healthy relationships. From open communication to mutual respect, let’s strive for the positives! #mentalhealth #relationshipgoals #relationshipadvice #relationshiptips #relationshipquote #counsellingpsychologyButton -
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This is everything. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaneepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #grief #anxiety #boundariesmatter #kingston #communityButton -
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How lucky are we to be surrounded by so many inspiring women within and outside of Napanee Psychotherapy. We are dedicated to celebrating the wonderful women in our lives, in our community and around the world who continue to Get. It. Done. We won’t stop cheering on each other and we won’t stop cheering on YOU. How are you celebrating the women in your life today? Comment below! #internationalwomensday #IWD #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #greaternapanee #kingstonmentalhealth #communityButton -
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Think of emotions like colours. You have a core set of primary colours and everything else filters through these. Emotions are no different. Primary emotions include Fear, Sadness, Anger, Shame, Joy and Disgust. Some of these might have shades within them. Frustration, for example, is a ‘shade’ of anger. All other emotional experiences filter through these primary emotions just like green filters through blue and yellow. When you can link your experience back to its primary state, you are setting yourself up to know what you need. How do we do that? Come to therapy and we will show you ;) Just kidding - but we will post on this again soon! #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #grief #anxiety #boundarysmatter #kingstonmentalhealth #communityButton -
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The outpouring of support from our community has always kept us humble. Whether it be sending us referrals, knowing our coffee orders, providing the best baked goods, presenting opportunities for us to continue to grow and support others, helping us with the administrative aspects of operating a collective or partnering with us for fundraisers and community support, We are so grateful to be a part of this community. While we’re not allowed to do giveaways, or ‘bundle packages’, we will never stop finding ways to give back to the community that continues to support us. We are always happy to collaborate with community partners. Check out some of the local businesses that we have had the pleasure of collaborating with over the past few years! #counsellingpsychology #mentalhealthawareness #communityfirst #communityovercompetition #mentalhealthButton -
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NEW DATES* The caregiver workshop has been postponed to March 28 and April 16 from 9am to 4pm. This workshop is for parents, caregivers and spouses of individuals of ALL AGES wo may be struggling with emotion regulation or mental health challenges. This workshop is great for parents with deeply feeling kiddos as well. For more information, or to register, contact Cassandra@firstlighttherapy.ca #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #grief #anxiety #boundarysmatter #kingstonmentalhealth #communityButton -
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New month - new list of simple IDEAS to support your nervous system. Spring is coming y’all! #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #grief #anxiety #kingstonmentalhealth #communityButton -
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Our cell phones bring so much to our lives, unfortunately sleep is not always one of those things 💤😴 #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #cellphones #counsellingpsychology #counselling #psychologyButton -
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What does pink shirt day mean to you? For us it is more than a stance against bullying. It is showing kindness to ourselves and others and it is also a commitment to owning our humanness and making amends in the times that maybe we aren’t as kind. We’re missing a few valuable team members here - navigating so many schedules at the exact same time is no easy feat 😅 however collectively, the dedication remains the same. #napaneepsychotherapy #pinkshirtday #antibullying #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawarenessButton -
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Is documentation taking up a lot of space in your brain and time in your life? We’ve been there too. Join Cassandra from this two part Workshop March 22 and April 5 2024 aimed at enhancing documentation skills, brief case conceptualization skills and ethical considerations. Cassandra has been part of developing documentation guidelines in local health care settings as well as provincially and is well versed in CRPO and OCSWSSW standards. To register, contact Cassandra@firstlighttherapy.ca #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #grief #anxiety #boundarysmatter #kingstonmentalhealth #community #yorkvilleuniversityButton -
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Today kicks off national eating disorder awareness week. Eating disorders are incredibly serious and require very specialized care. If you or someone you know is struggling with disordered eating, get informed on the risks and seek support. *all statistics from the National Initiative for Eating Disorders #eatingdisorders #eatingdisorderawareness #eatingdisordersupport #eatingdisorderawarenessweek #eatingdisorderhelp #eatingdisorderrecoveryButton -
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Therapy is a safe place for the good, the bad and the ugly. It is a place where you don’t need to know what to say or how to say it. It is a place where you don’t’ have to ‘get it’ or need to know what to do ‘with it’. I want to create an environment with my clients where they feel comfortable to speak openly, feel respected in their experiences and honoured in their processing and reflections. I want clients to know they are safe to have their emotions and will be respected in how they work through the issues that have brought them to therapy. #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthsupport #therapistsofinstagram #counsellingpsychology #mentalhealthcounselingButton -
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Ever feel like you forget who you are sometimes? Self-inquiry and reflection go hand-in-hand with connecting with yourself. Here are a few prompts to help get the ball rolling on reconnecting with yourself. Share some of your faves in the comments! #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #grief #anxiety #boundarysmatter #kingstonmentalhealth #communityButton -
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Are you surprised to hear us say this? 🤔☺️ #counsellingpsychology #mentalhealthsupport #mentalhealthmatters #psychotherapy #counsellingservicesButton -
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Coming at you with two sides of this one. The human brain finds safety in things that are familiar and predictable. That is why change is hard,and why for some, chaos can feel more ‘peaceful’. In the same token, the ticket to new neural pathways is through consistency and repetition. This is how we create familiarity and predictability in the brain. It can be hard, when our nervous system initially might reject this new thing. Keep going! It will be worth it! #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #grief #anxiety #boundarysmatter #kingstonmentalhealth #communityButton -
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Here’s your gentle reminder to focus on what you can control - YOU. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #grief #anxiety #boundarysmatter #kingstonmentalhealth #communityButton -
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Want to know a secret? A common-denominator skill in most therapies is curiosity. When all else fails, getting curious about our emotional experiences, our responses, our actions, how we spend our time, who we will spend out time with, our challenges, our values, our strengths etc etc can give us a sense of direction toward what needs attention at any given time. What have you learned when you get curious about yourself and your life? Tell us below! #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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We have really started to embrace the language of self love > self-care. Don’t get us wrong - self care is very important. But our relationship with ourselves is THE MOST IMPORTANT RELATIONSHIP WE WILL HAVE. It impacts every experience that we have, how we show up for them and what we take away from them. It impacts every other relationship we have; again, in how we show up and what we take away. Self-care is part of self love. In order to show ourselves love, we need to take care of ourselves. Self-care alone misses the essence of the other aspects of loving ourselves including understanding, appreciating and accepting ourselves. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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Effective communication is an important skill. In relationships, whether it be with a friend or a partner, we can easily fall into a trap of assuming others’ know our intentions and expectations. Here’s the thing: none of us are mind readers. (If you are, we may hire you at our practice!). Have you ever walked away in the middle of an argument? We bet your intentions were good. You were likely overwhelmed and didn’t want to say or do something you didn’t mean at that moment. Have you ever had someone walk away from you in the middle of an argument? We bet you may have interpreted that as “they don’t care” or “this doesn’t matter to them”. Now imagine if you had communicated “I am going to walk away because this is important to me and I can feel myself getting heated. I don’t want to say something that I don’t mean and I want to come back to this when we’ve both had a chance to cool off”. Imagine you had heard this from the person that walked away. When we are clear about our intentions and our expectations (needs), we take the guessing game out of it for everyone. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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We really do though. We all have default responses that are less helpful. We all have tendencies intended to mirror some semblance of coping, that can be destructive. We choose the language of tendency over trait here because a trait suggests an innate quality. Tendencies develop and your tendencies have developed for a reason too. AND We all have the ability to become aware of these tendencies, get curious about them and work toward rewiring them. This is accountability. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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We talk a lot in therapy about how to set boundaries and sometimes we forget to shine a light on how to respect boundaries. Boundaries can be tricky to navigate for everyone. Guilt might come with setting boundaries and disappointment might come with respecting boundaries. Respecting boundaries requires us to be vulnerable and curious and these traits can lead us to appreciation and sometimes compromise.Respecting boundaries requires intention. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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A trigger is anything that elicits an emotional response. Yes, even joy. Most often though, triggers get a bad vibe. Our responses to triggers can certainly be difficult and intense and we can also learn a lot from them. They show us what is unresolved and where we need to turn our attention. Next time you experience something triggering, ask yourself what you can learn about your needs. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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Sometimes we get nervous when someone tells us they are dissociating. And fair enough. There are complex forms of dissociation that can lead to fragmentation of our mind and reality that warrant specialised support. And here, we are talking about everyday dissociative symptoms that we all do. It is our body and our mind’s way of helping us ‘get through’ an overwhelming and/or intense experience that we otherwise feel ill-equipped to handle in that moment (consciously or subconsciously). The next time you notice yourself daydreaming, scrolling mindlessly, getting from point A to B in the car and not remembering parts of the drive, meet yourself with curiosity and consider what might be too intense or too overwhelming; ask yourself what you need. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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It is true that we all have the same 24 hours in a day. And, our resources that determine how these 24 hours are spent can be exponentially different. Maybe you are working two full time jobs to make ends meet and that leaves little time for much else right now. Maybe you have a cushy income but you have an ill parnt who needs 24h care and you’re the only family member to do it. Maybe you are in full time school while also working part time with children in activities. Maybe you’re deep in the throes of a grief burst and any time outside of work and caring for your family is spent tending to this. Maybe you have a passionate hobby that ties up most of your non-working times and this hobby keeps your mental health in check but leaves little time for other things right now. The point is, everyone shows up with different resources: financial, time, psychological, social, emotional, physical. Consider this when you fall into the comparison trap and you’re hard on yourself for not getting ‘that thing’ done today. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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Overall health and wellness requires a balance of emotional, mental, physical and spiritual health. These are a few of our favourite things! #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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Sometimes we get in our own way. We don’t say no. We don’t ask for what we need. We don’t have the necessary, difficult conversations. We don’t hold ourselves accountable. We don’t accept that the changes we want may not happen. We keep tolerating things that don’t sit well. Sometimes we need to look in the mirror. We need to ask ourselves what we are willing to accept or not accept. We need to decide what we will no longer tolerate. We need to be accountable to ourselves. How are you showing up for yourself? #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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Did you know that warmth is a natural source of comfort? This may be useful when you’re feeling sad, when you’re having a difficult day or simply as a strategy to keep your nervous system in check. You may notice we often have hot beverages in our offices. Coincidence? I think not. How do you use warmth to sooth your soul? Comment below! #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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Growth takes time. You’ve likely heard this before. The timeline doesn’t matter. With every step, there is still growth. Even if it feels like there wasn’t a step at all. Like anything else you learn in life, you will try hard and it won’t work out the way you hope every single time. You will get discouraged. You will show up consistently and it will feel like you are starting over some days. You will put every last effort in and those default responses may still show up. If you are learning to deal with this disappointment differently: that’s Growth. If you are meeting these experiences with curiosity? This is growth. Sometimes our most significant healing and growth comes from the moments that feel the most insignificant. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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Loneliness is an experience we hear about a lot in therapy. It can be confusing. We often think the antidote to loneliness is more interaction. In theory, perhaps this makes sense. But have you ever felt lonely in a room full of people? When we recognize feelings of loneliness, we don’t need more interaction. We need more meaningful CONNECTION. Picture this: you were recently diagnosed with a terminal illness. Or maybe you’ve lost the person you love most in your life. You have loads of support from friends and family, even acquaintances. And yet, you feel lonely. You can’t explain it. It is not that those showing their support don’t care and the interactions aren’t meaningful. It isn’t that you don’t appreciate the outpouring. It may be, perhaps, that the people who care the most about you don’t fully understand what you are going through. Perhaps they don’t know what to say and you feel that. The point is, when we feel connected to others, it is usually because there is a part of them that helps a part of us either feel heard/seen, or make sense of what is happening. This is meaningful connection. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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We love that Bell Let’s talk has been a campaign for well over a decade now. Let’s not just remember mental health today, lets remember it every day. Just like physical health, we all have mental health. Just like physical health, some have more challenges then others. Prioritize your mental health today and EVERY day. Let’s talk! #bellletstalk #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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Managing burnout is not just about physical tasks. It is a mix of practical and emotional strategies. Burnout is the byproduct of pushing our capacities and limits and this tendency is still rooted in an emotional response. These strategies can feel like a tall order - we get it! - And they can be a helpful starting point. Acknowledge your emotional experience: Pay attention to what is going on for you emotionally. This will help you to understand what you need. Communicate With Others: Share your concerns with safe and trusted others. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life and also within these individual contexts. Know your limits: Pay attention to when you start to feel drained, out of sorts, or overwhelmed. Delegate Tasks: We know - way easier said than done. Start with something small that you can delegate in order to help your nervous system with the change. Find your purpose: Ask yourself what is leading you to burn the candle at both ends. This can help to shine a light on where to start. .#napaneepsychotherapy #counsellingpsychology #burnout #psychotherapy #counselling #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawarenessButton -
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Do you want in on a secret? It is a huge misconception that we can control our emotions. Have you ever been told to “stop being angry”? How about “stop crying”? Here’s the thing: we are humans and not robots. There is no ‘delete’ button for emotional experiences. We cannot control whether or not we FEEL angry or sad or happy or afraid. What we CAN control is what we do with the information that is our emotional experiences. When we let ourselves feel things, we gain control. You can’t control (manage) sadness that you don’t show/express. When we don’t let ourselves be human and feel, it will show up in other ways such as resentment, outbursts, addiction, eating disorders, increased anxiety, lower mood…to name a few. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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Nervous system regulation is talked about so much more these days. But What does it mean? Nervous system regulation refers to our ability to move flexibly through different emotional and arousal states so that we can adapt, effectively, to changes big or small in our environments. In therapy we offer strategies for ‘in the moment’ nervous system regulation and modulation. And here, we have outlined everyday things that you can do that have long term benefits for overall nervous system regulation. Sounds simple right? Sometimes the simplest things, when accessed consistently, have the biggest impacts. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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Drawing from somatic work and emotion theory, this container aims to support you in building skill and confidence in emotion differentiation and working with clients through intense emotional experiences (anger, fear, sadness, hopelessness) and manifestations. Case consultation available within the container. To register or for more information, contact: cassandra@firstlighttherapy.ca! #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #skillbuilding #emotionsmatter #psychologystudentsButton -
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Interrupting our joy can be just as common as interrupting more intense emotions such as anger or sadness. Remember when you were a kid and certain things were just THE BEST EVER? Snow days. Going to the park. Bubble wrap. Often the simplest things. We still have these moments as adults. And somewhere along the way, we have lost touch with how to embrace them. For some, it may be because the inevitable sadness to come (there is no joy without sadness - more on that later), feels too intense to handle. For some, it feels like we ‘shouldn’t’ get too excited because ‘its not a big deal’ or ‘what if i mess it up’ or ‘adults don’t jump for literal joy’. For some, it has been a long time since we have felt true joy and we aren’t sure how to do it. Whatever your reason, here is your gentle reminder that blocking your joy can be just as harmful as interrupting other emotions. Let yourself experience joy and SHARE IT - that is the emotional need for joy - to share. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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The part of you that will get through that really difficult thing doesn’t exist yet. The part of you that will figure it out will come through in that moment. We can’t predict the future no matter how hard we try. Trust that your future self will rise to the occasion. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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Are you looking for supervision? If so, join Cassandra for either individual or group supervision! ✨Two spaces left in small group supervision ✨ contact cassandra@firstlighttherapy.ca! #psychologystudents #counsellingpsychology #cognitivebehavioraltherapy #therapistsofinstagram #therapyworksButton -
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Prioritizing your well-being and personal growth is not selfish; it’s a fundamental part of emotional and mental health. Taking care of yourself is an act of self-love. In a world where self-criticism, burnout and setting our needs aside has become all too “normal”, let’s re-write the story. #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #napaeepsychotherapy #counselling #therapy #wellness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #burnoutButton -
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Burnout has become way too common for comfort. Sometimes, burnout can even be glamourized, praised or encouraged to a point where we may not even recognize burnout itself or it’s harmful impacts. You’ve heard us say it before and we will say it again: Awareness is Power. Recognition is the first step. Stay tuned for helpful strategies to take action when you recognize burnout. #napaneepsychotherapy #counsellingpsychology #burnout #psychotherapy #counselling #socialwork #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawarenessButton -
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Edit^ every other* Tuesday. Are you looking for supervision? If so, join Stacey for either individual or group supervision! Email her at ascendcounsellingservices@gmail.com! #psychologystudents #counsellingpsychology #cognitivebehavioraltherapy #therapistsofinstagram #therapyworksButton -
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Are you seeing more presentations of body image concerns, Disordered Eating or Eating Disorders in your Practice? Join Cassandra Millen (MSW, RSW) Certified EFFT Therapist for this 1-day virtual workshop! To register or for more information, contact: cassandra@firstlighttherapy.ca! #eatingdisorder #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #eatingdisordersupport #eatingdisorderrecoveryButton -
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A common misconception about psychotherapy is that once you are done, so is the work. The reality is, healing can be a life-long venture. No, this does not mean you are in therapy forever. It means that once we unlearn unhelpful responses, and re-learn different ones, we may still need to work at it AND this doesn’t mean therapy has failed or that you aren’t effective in your efforts. Think of this: you are in recovery from an eating disorder. Your self-critical thoughts have become less frequent and less intense. They don’t dictate how you dress, what you eat or whether or not you participate. But they are still present. And you still have to work, some days more then others, to challenge those thoughts or tend to those emotional experiences. This is the healing process. Another consideration: You are a people-pleaser. You have worked really hard to understand that you will disappoint others and that is okay. You have worked really hard to set boundaries that make you uncomfortable, despite knowing they are necessary. You have worked really hard to work through the guilt that comes with said boundaries. AND you still default to “yes” sometimes. Just because we have to work at it, doesn’t mean that we aren’t healing. #napaneepsychotherapy #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #therapy #counselling #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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We often hear about ‘letting go’ of people, things, roles, etc that leave us feeling disregarded, disrespected or unheard. AND, sometimes these things play a big role in our life and the thought of ‘letting go’ becomes too overwhelming. In order to make it make sense, we first need to reconsider. ➡️ Reconsider what you are willing to accept or tolerate. ➡️ Reconsider how you spend your time with certain people or in certain environments. ➡️ Reconsider who has access to you, and how. ➡️ Reconsider your willingness to do this anymore. ➡️ Reconsider your values and how others fit into them. Remember, it’s a process. We can want certain relationships and also recognize they aren’t healthy or helpful. When we reconsider, we can realign with what makes sense for us. #napaneepsychotherapy #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #counselling #therapy #psychotherapy #mentalhealth #wellness #healthyboundariesButton -
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We are so excited to shared that, in collaboration with @stepabovestigma, Trisha will be facilitating her first Empowerment Lab on building healthy boundaries. This workshop is free and you can register now by visiting the link in our bio. #healthyboundaries #counsellingpsychology #napaneepsychotherapy #mentalhealth #burnout #psychotherapyButton -
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It’s hard not to feel ‘behind’ sometimes in such a comparative culture. If you are human, you have and will compare yourself to others. It is a natural tendency. It would be too simple for us to say “don’t compare yourself to others.” Instead, we want to invite you to remember two simple things when we fall into the comparison trap: 1️⃣ Just because others believe something is right, doesn’t mean it is right for YOU. 2️⃣ We can always learn. Whether from our triumphs, our mistakes, our thoughts, our emotional experiences, people in our lives, people out of our lives. We. Can. Always. Learn…when we choose to. #napaneepsychotherapy #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #therapy #counselling #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmattersButton -
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Focused on supporting clients to work through difficult shame and self-blame including feelings of not being “good enough”, this container includes a blend of skills and strategies as well as case consultation. To register or for more information, contact: cassandra@firstlighttherapy.ca #selfesteem #selfesteembuilding #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #selfgrowthButton -
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Swipe to learn more about why you should celebrate your wins and set goals beyond New Year’s… #smallwins #goalsetting #counsellingpsychology #psychotherapy #goalsetterButton -
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In a world that often encourages us to be accommodating and selfless, it’s easy to fall into the trap of people-pleasing. Saying ‘yes’ when we really want to say ‘no,’ putting others’ needs before our own – it’s a familiar script for many. However, it’s time to rewrite that narrative and reclaim our authenticity through the empowering practice of setting boundaries. People-pleasing might seem like a noble act, but it often comes at the cost of our well-being. Constantly seeking validation and approval can lead to exhaustion and a sense of losing oneself in the process. That’s where setting boundaries becomes a game-changer. 1. The Art of Saying ‘No’ - Saying ‘no’ isn’t about being selfish; it’s about self-preservation. By setting boundaries and respectfully declining what doesn’t align with our priorities, we reclaim our time and energy. Remember, a well-placed ‘no’ opens the door to a more fulfilling ‘yes’ down the road. 2. Prioritizing Self-Respect - Boundaries are the silent architects of healthy relationships. They define the space where our needs and values are honored, fostering an environment of mutual respect. It’s a powerful act of self-love to communicate and enforce these boundaries, creating relationships that nourish rather than deplete. 3. Embracing Authentic Living - Ditching the people-pleasing mindset allows us to embrace authenticity. It’s liberating to express our true selves without the constant weight of external expectations. Setting boundaries becomes a declaration of self-respect, a commitment to living in alignment with our values. 4. Thriving in Healthy Relationships - Setting boundaries doesn’t mean shutting people out; it’s about creating space for healthy connections. By communicating our needs and limits, we invite understanding and strengthen the foundation of our relationships. Authentic connections thrive in an atmosphere of mutual respect and clear boundaries. #boundariesarehealthy #boundaries #selfcarehacks #counsellingpsychology #therapyworks #peoplepleaser #peoplepleasingButton -
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Presenting your January to-do list! In a culture that often glorifies ‘productivity,’ let’s challenge the conventional narrative this month. Societal constructs have conditioned us to believe that productivity resembles constant work and that there must be tangible output. Recognize that true productivity transcends the tangible; it encompasses personal well-being, self-reflection, and the invaluable, intangible aspects of our lives. Join us in reshaping our perspective on productivity for a month that prioritizes holistic fulfillment and growth. 🌟✨ #JanuaryGoals #RedefiningProductivity #psychotherapy #counselling #selflove.Button -
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Join us for this two-day, virtual workshop for parents, grandparents, spouses, and any other adult caregivers to loved ones of all ages who may be struggling with mental health. To register or for more information, contact: cassandra@firstlighttherapy.ca! #mentalhealthworkshop #familytherapy #emotionalwellbeing #psychologist #counsellingpsychologyButton -
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The notion of perfection often exists as an elusive ideal, a mirage that can never be fully attained. In the pursuit of perfection, we may find ourselves on an endless quest, always reaching for an unattainable standard. However, it’s in the acceptance of imperfections, the acknowledgment of our vulnerabilities, and the genuine expression of our true selves that we create a true masterpiece—authenticity. Authenticity is the raw, unfiltered portrayal of who we are, with all our unique qualities, quirks, and imperfections. It’s the art of embracing our individuality and being true to our values and beliefs. In this authenticity, we discover a genuine beauty that transcends the superficial pursuit of perfection. It’s a beauty that emanates from the realness of our experiences, the depth of our emotions, and the authenticity of our connections with others. The pursuit of perfection may lead to an endless and unfulfilling journey, whereas authenticity is the destination where we find fulfillment, connection, and the true masterpiece of our lives. It’s a reminder that true beauty lies not in flawless exteriors but in the authenticity of our existence—a masterpiece that evolves with every genuine brushstroke of our experiences. #authenticity #selflove #selfcare #healing #vulnerability #psychotherapy #counsellingpsychologyButton -
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THIS. 👏 #mentalhealthawareness #goalsetting #goalgetters #selfreminder #selfgrowthButton -
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Happy New Year! We are excited to kick off #MemeMonday with a funny batch of therapy and mental health memes to spark some laughter as we approach 2024! 🎉 Stay tuned for next Monday 👀 #mentalhealthawareness #therapistsofinstagram #mentalhealthcounseling #mentalhealthButton -
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Today is December 31. The time of year where everyone reflects on their growth throughout the year. But there are two things at Napanee Psychotherapy we want you to recognize: 1) You don’t need to wait till December 31st to reflect on your growth. It’s important that you reflect and celebrate the small wins daily. 2) It’s crucial to recognize that growth goes beyond mere titles and possessions. True growth transcends these conventional markers. In 2023, as a team, we learned: - Growth is not always the measurable things like how we’ve expanded or the training we’ve completed. It’s about creating a solid work-life balance where we can say ‘no’ and stick to our values. - Community and collaboration over competition, always. - Asking for help is a super power. - Knowing our lane. 🌟 Let’s celebrate the intangible victories, personal growth, and the resilience that shaped our journey in 2023. Here’s to embracing a new year with a broader perspective on what growth truly means! 🚀 #NewYearsEve #mentalhealthawareness #psychotherapy #mentalhealthsupport #therapistsofinstagramButton -
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No matter if, or how, you may be celebrating this holiday season, Napanee Psychotherapy wishes you a merry and peaceful holiday season 🌲 ✨Button -
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We will be out of office over the holidays. Swipe through to see each therapists availability this holiday season. Your individual therapist may be checking emails occasionally, however response times will be slower. Please remember that urgent or emergency situations should be directed to the local 24h crisis line at 613.354.7388Button -
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✨ Merry Christmas to us! We are so excited to announce that Trisha Nelson has joined our team at Napanee Psychotherapy! You may remember Trisha as an intern earlier this year. Trisha completed her internship with Cassandra last week and has officially launched her own private practice, Inward and Upward! Trisha is a highly skilled clinician who works with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, eating disorders, emotion regulation and perfectionism. Trisha is trauma trained and also offers Brainspotting! Head over to www.napaneepsychotherapy.com to learn more about Trisha and connect with her today! #napaneepsychotherapy #psychotherapy #mentalhealth #wellness #counselling #therapy #napanee #kingston #bellevilleButton -
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The holiday season can bring ++ feelings and a sense of pressure, regardless of if or what you’re celebrating. Often, our sense of overwhelm is exacerbated by people-pleasing or gaps in our value systems. These are a few strategies that can be helpful to manage both: 🌲 Manage expectations of yourself. In case you need to hear it, you don’t have to do it all. Be considerate of your time, financial situation and values and ask yourself: is this reasonable or realistic to expect of myself AND maintain my values and overall mental and physical health? If the answer is no, maybe it’s worth reconsidering. 🌲 Manage your expectations of others. Some of our expectations of others stem from our own frame of reference. If you’re a Christmas card and baking for all of your friends type and your friends are not, it is not an expression or lack thereof of their fondness if you. Relationally, it’s also important to remember that some people in our lives may not have the capacity to give us what we need or are hoping for. It’s not an excuse, it’s just a reminder to consider that others’ behaviours are a reflection of themselves and not you. 🎄 Consider your values. If something doesn’t sit well, whether it’s cramming in a third get together in a day, your ideas of what the holidays are really about or the pressure to “make it perfect”, there’s a reason it doesn’t sit well. The most important people in your life will understand, even if they don’t like it. 🌲 Set boundaries. Refer to our last post for the full scoop. Cole’s Notes (do those still exist?!): again, the most important people in your life will understand. Disappointment does not mean “we’re not good”. No one wants resentment for Christmas and people pleasing breeds resentment. We know these are all easier said than done. But as a final note, in case no one’s told you, YOU and YOUR PRESENCE are enough to make the season enjoyable. #napaneepsychotherapy #therapy #counselling #psychotherapy #wellness #mentalhealth #holidays #takingcareofyou #napanee #kingstonButton -
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✨INTERNSHIP AVAILABLE✨ Napanee Psychotherapy has an opening for an intern starting in May 2024. Candidates looking for September 2024 start May be considered. Knowledge and experience working with trauma will be an asset. Successful candidate will be required on site in Napanee, Ontario a minimum of one day per week, two days preferred. Hours are flexible with the ability to work remotely. Successful candidate will receive their own office space, free on-site training and workshops and free supervision. Also, there are no shortage of treats and lattes at Napanee Psychotherapy 🙏 To inquire or apply, please contact Cassandra@firstlighttherapy.ca or ascendcounsellingservices@gmail.com #napaneepsychotherapy #therapy #psychotherapy #yorkville #kingston #counselling #mentalhealthButton
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Contact Us
The first step in therapy is talking. Let's find a time where we can meet and talk about what's on your mind.
Fax: 343-312-6587
116 John Street. Floor 2, Unit 1
Napanee, ON, K7R 1R2