Self-Help Resources for a Better You

Unfortunately, accessing therapy is a privilege that not everyone can afford...

There are many resources in the community who offer reduced fees, sliding scales, walk-in crisis counseling, brief therapy, peer support groups and programs etc. However, the mental health system can be difficult to navigate on your own but please know that there are many options available to you. Navigating the multiple services and figuring out the different ways of healing that are most adequate for you can take time. 

Therapy is not a "quick fix" and it will not give you the "perfect solution" to every problem. All therapists do is walk alongside you on this journey. You are the writer of your own story.

Coaching focuses on concrete strategies and goals for everyday stressors, while therapy aims to work through traumatic memories, emotional regulation, attachment, etc. Coaching or counselling on the other hand, focuses on giving information, giving advice and encouragement.

In Ontario, psychotherapy is a “Controlled Act” as defined by the Psychotherapy Act, 2007, Section 4. It is defined as : “the assessment and treatment of cognitive, emotional or behavioural disturbances by psychotherapeutic means, delivered through a therapeutic relationship based primarily on verbal or non-verbal communication.” (College of Registered Psychotherapist of Ontario)

Resources such as books, podcasts, e-learning courses can also be an additional source of support on your wellness and mental health journey. They can lead to more insight, self-development and a sense of hope.

Below are some of my personal books, journals, apps and podcast recommendations for the New Year!

Journal

The Gift of Self Love: A Workbook to Help You Build Confidence, Recognize Your Worth, and Learn to Finally Love Yourself by Mary Jelkovsky

The Set Boundaries Workbook: Practical Exercises for Understanding Your Needs and Setting Healthy Limits by Nedra Glover Tawwab

Goodbye, Anxiety: A Guided Journal for Overcoming Worry by Terri Bacow

Books

Not Drinking Tonight: A Guide to Creating a Sober Life You Love by Amanda E. White LPC

Didn't See That Coming: Putting Life Back Together When Your World Falls Apart by Rachel Hollis

Hungry for More: Satisfy Your Deepest Cravings, Feed Your Dreams and Live a Full-Up Life by Mel Wells

Body Positive Power: How to stop dieting, make peace with your body and live by Megan Jayne Crabbe

That's Bold of You: How To Thrive as Your Most Vibrant, Weird, and Real Self by Case Kenny

Podcast

Mary’s Cup of Tea : Self-Love Podcast

New Mindset, Who Dis? by Case Kenny

Where Should We Begin? with Esther Perel

The Full Plate by Abbie Attwood

Food Psych by Christy Harrison

Apps

Alcohol tracking : Saying When

Smart Recovery

Mindshift CBT

Opal

Calm 

Headspace