As November marks Children’s Grief Awareness Month, this blog aims to guide you in understanding the unique ways children experience grief. We begin by introducing a poignant artwork created by a renowned German artist Käthe Kollwitz, whose work powerfully captures the depths of loss and sorrow. The artwork, titled *Killed in Action*, is deeply [...]
As increasing numbers of people adopt an urban lifestyle, our pace of life appears to quicken, shaped by both our mindset (the pursuit of efficiency) and our surroundings (the development of corporate headquarters). We often multitask, planning our next commitments while running errands. In this blog, we explore mindfulness as both a concept and a [...]
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are two important medical conditions that warrant significant public awareness. With the right treatment and social support, individuals often experience notable improvements in their symptoms and overall quality of life. In this blog, we will concentrate on pediatric mental health and child development. We’ll begin [...]
Childhood trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are more common than many people realize. Research by Delphine Collin-Vézina, a professor at the School of Social Work, and data from Stats Canada reveal that nearly one in three children in Canada has experienced some form of ACE, such as abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction. These [...]
What Are Trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)? Trauma refers to the emotional, psychological, and physical responses to distressing experiences, such as accidents, abuse, natural disasters, or loss. While some individuals may navigate trauma with resilience, others might face intense reactions like hypervigilance, emotional numbness, or avoidance, which, if left untreated, can lead [...]
In recent decades, the number of children diagnosed with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) has risen significantly. While medication is often considered an ADHD treatment, many parents hesitate to pursue this option due to concerns about side effects or long-term use. Fortunately, alternative approaches such as art therapy for ADHD have shown promising clinical outcomes. According to [...]
“It feels like a heavy weight pressing down on your chest, making each day a struggle to find light. Even the simplest tasks can become monumental challenges, and the relentless inner turmoil drains your energy and hope. It's a constant battle with a voice that seems to amplify every doubt and fear. ” [...]
Art therapy is gaining recognition as a valuable tool in psychotherapy for addiction recovery, particularly among young adults struggling with mental health challenges in Toronto. According to recent statistics, addiction rates among young adults in Toronto have increased, with many turning to substances or behaviors to cope with overwhelming emotions like shame. Art therapy helps [...]
When addressing the complex challenges of trauma, especially conditions like Acute Stress Disorder (ASD), both traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and art therapy have proven to be effective therapeutic methods. Each approach offers unique benefits, from the structured cognitive techniques of CBT to the expressive and creative avenues provided by art therapy. While CBT focuses [...]
What is Play Therapy? Play therapy is a therapeutic approach primarily used to help children explore their emotions, resolve psychological issues, and improve their behavior through play. Recognizing that children often lack the verbal skills to express complex feelings and experiences, play therapy leverages the natural medium of play to facilitate communication and healing. What [...]
