Beginning mid May, I will be starting a therapy group, utilizing the helping model of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. CBT is a method of psychotherapy that was developed in the 1960s by Aaron T. Beck and was intended to treat both depression and anxiety. The principle of CBT is that our depressive or anxious feelings are primarily caused by negative thought patterns and that if you can change the way that you think, you can change the way that you feel. Over the next few decades, CBT became the gold standard of psycho-therapeutic techniques and is often my first suggestion for anyone who is looking for help to treat their depressive or anxious thoughts or actions. Here are some common questions and answers you may be asking...
What will it look like?
The group itself will be closed (meaning participants cannot join each week, but must sign up at the beginning of each module that runs 4 weeks at a time). Module 1 will help participants learn the basic principles of CBT and will be equipped with some tools that will help combat negative thought patterns. Module 2 will build on the principles of the first session, but will also focus on the activities that we are involved with that drive our negative feelings and thoughts. Module 3 will then examine our environment, helping participants make the connection between the things around them that might be causing depressive thoughts and feelings. The group will be limited to 12 participants and preference will be given to those who have completed previous modules. People may begin at any of these 3 modules.
Who is this group for?
Anyone who struggles or has struggled with depression, or someone who is seeking to understand how to support friends or family in the area of depression. Although anxiety and depression are typical symptoms that go hand in hand, we will primarily focus on the depressive thought patterns rather than anxiety. As depression varies in intensity, you do not need to have a formal diagnosis in order to attend the group. The only criteria is that you are wishing to find support in living with depression.
What are the dates and where will this group take place?
The first module will begin Tuesday May 15th at 10:30 AM and will run for 4 consecutive weeks for one hour at a time. The next module dates will be announced at a later date. The location of the group will be 101 George Street in Arthur, as Father's Heart Healing Ministries has graciously welcomed the group to run at their location. You are welcome to come early for a coffee in the cafe and to stay for lunch afterwards, as the cafe makes some of the best soups in town.
How much is the cost and where can I sign up?
The cost for the group is 30 dollars per session, with a commitment of 4 weeks at a time. You may sign up by calling By Peaceful Waters' Intake line at 519-886-8577. Receipts can be made out with my own designation for extended health insurance purposes.
I have another question that I would like answered...
Wonderful! Please reach out through the contact button on this website, or by calling our Intake Worker at By Peaceful Waters, or by emailing intake@bypeacefulwaters.ca