Ongoing: Therapeutic Apps

Over the years, I've come across a number of phone applications that have been great supplements to therapy and self-care practices. In no particular order, here is a running list of apps that may be useful tools for you to consider.

Daylio
Acts as a self-care bullet journal where you can track your daily activities and mood.

MY3
Offers a way to create and have quick access to a safety plan.

Gottman Card Deck
Provides information and suggestions on how to strengthen your romantic relationship. Offers questions you can ask your partner, suggestions for things to do and say, etc.

Virtual Hope Box
Offers various methods of coping when feeling sad or experiencing negative thinking. Also provides a space to store personal reminders of the positive things in life, including pictures, videos, supportive messages, favourite songs, and inspirational quotes. 

Calm Harm
This app is technically designed to help a person refrain from self-harming by redirecting them to alternative coping strategies. However, the various coping tools within this app are wonderful and can be useful for anyone seeking to learn news ways of coping during painful or stressful situations.

Move Mood
Designed to support someone with low energy and motivation in rebuilding their routines or incorporating new positive activities into their day.

Clear Fear
Covers all things anxiety, from helpful information about different types of anxiety and symptoms, to coping strategies to manage them effectively.

DARE
Meant to align with the book DARE by Barry McDonagh, this app provides helpful audio recordings that can help talk you through a period of anxiety or a panic attack in ways that will effectively weaken your anxious responses over time.

ThinkUp
Allows you to record yourself saying affirmations, so you can replay and hear those affirmations in your own voice.

Konvos
An interactive journal and self-talk coach.

Serenity
Offers mindfulness and meditation exercises.

Insight Timer
Offers mindfulness and meditation exercises.

Headspace
Offers mindfulness and meditation exercises.

Calm
Offers mindfulness and meditation exercises.

MY3
Offers a place for effective safety planning.

https://mobile.va.gov/appstore/
A collection of health and wellness apps created by U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

PTSD Coach
Also created by U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, this app offers information on PTSD, an unofficial assessment of PTSD symptoms, and a number of coping tools to help manage symptoms of stress and/or PTSD.

Before you go, a few disclaimers. Some of these apps may only be for Android or iPhone devices so if you can't find it, that may be why. Also this list is simply meant to help you know your options - it is your responsibility to decide whether you choose to download the app, accept the permissions requested, or spend money on any in-app purchases. Finally, please know that these apps are not a replacement for therapy, but they certainly can help us keep on track or access new tools to serve our mental health!