Ongoing: Resources
Resources can be a wonderful inexpensive way to learn and grow. Below, I've included an ongoing list of resources for you to access, from printable worksheets to YouTube videos to online courses. These resources might act as a way to supplement therapy, support personal development independently, or even help bridge the gap in addressing your mental health if therapy is inaccessible for you at this time.
The purpose of this list is for you to explore and use these resources as you see fit. Some of them are designed for self-help and some of them are designed to be completed with the help of a therapist. Many are free, though some of them (particularly the courses) do have a cost associated with them. It is up to you whether you choose to use any of the below resources and you are responsible for any costs or investments of time associated with them.
All that to say, I will do my best to ensure the resources I am sharing are rooted in evidence-based approaches. If you aren't sure if a resource is appropriate for you or it is causing you distress, I strongly encourage you to stop using it, take care of yourself, and seek further support from a professional as-needed.
I also want to emphasize that none of these resources are a replacement for therapy. They do not provide the opportunity for personalized suggestions or explanations of how to use a coping tool appropriately, they do not offer a way to answer your questions or concerns, and they lack the supportive client/therapist relationship that is so important to the growth and change process.
Change can be tough and doing this work independently requires a lot of discipline, practice, and self-compassion. If you are not able to access therapy at this time, please ensure you have support in the form of family, friends, or access to one of the below "Support From a Real Person" resources on hand before embarking on this work.
All that to say, I hope the following can empower you to learn more about your mental health and wellness and support you in making positive changes in your life!
Books
Click here for my ongoing list of book suggestions
Phone Apps
Click here for my ongoing list of phone apps
Websites
The Gottman Institute (a research-based approach to relationships)
National Alliance on Mental Health
Society of Clinical Psychology (extensive list of psychological treatments and their efficacy)
VIA Character Strengths (survey to learn your strengths)
Postpartum Support International
TogetherAll (online anonymous support community)
Printable Handouts & Worksheets
Crisis and Trauma Resource Institute
Psychology Tools
Centre for Clinical Interventions (information sheets, worksheets options)
GetSelfHelp
Podcasts
Click here for my ongoing list of podcasts
YouTube
Click here for my ongoing list of TedTalks
Self-Guided Learning, Courses & Workshops
Centre for Clinical Interventions (workbook option)
AbilitiCBT Ontario
Therapy In a Nutshell
Support Groups
Ontario Mental Health Support Group (online, via Facebook)
Mood Disorders Association of Ontario Support Groups
International OCD Foundation Support Groups
Other Resource Lists to Explore
The Big List of Divorce Support and Resources for the Entire Family
Support From a Real Person
Canada Suicide Prevention Services
911 (for emergencies only)
Another great option is to speak with a family doctor or other medical professional. They may be able to connect you with other services that are right for you.