Everyday life is full of pressure, expectations, deadlines, and engagements. For some, stress is so pervasive, that it has become a permanent characteristic of their lives. Of course, some stress is useful. Stress helps motivate us to finish projects and perform under pressure. Too much stress, however, can be negative to our mental health. It can manifest as anxiety, depression, confusion, low motivation, a feeling of paralysis, and negative eating habits.
What is Stress Management Psychotherapy and Counselling?
Stress management therapy can help you achieve lifelong results. During your first session, we create a personalized counselling treatment plan that best suits your needs. Our counsellors are dedicated to finding the root causes of your stress, whether they be issues in the workplace, familial relationships, or social situations. Our treatment plans enable you to take control: we help you develop the tools to change your environment into a more manageable one, we interrupt and shift negative thought patterns and “self-talk”, and we promote healthier, more positive patterns of behaviors.
How does Stress Management Therapy at Mind + Zest Work?
1. 15-minute intake Session
We begin with a 15-minute intake session with one of our dedicated intake counsellors.
During these 15-minutes, we dig deep, and try to identify the issue you are looking to address. We then assess the best approach at treatment. We also try to get a good sense of your personality. At Mind + Zest, we want to match you with the therapist that would make the best possible fit based on what you need, and who you are. This consultation is also a great opportunity to address any concerns or questions you may have.
At the end of the session, our intake counsellor will set you up with a tailored ‘plan of action’ that includes the recommended stress management therapist best suited to help you, the recommended duration of your therapy, and a suggestion for any further testing or psychological service they feel would best fit your needs.
2. 50-minute Sessions
After the initial intake, clients will attend regular 50-minute sessions for the recommended duration of treatment. Here, we work with you through the treatment plan, and build towards the objectives set during your intake session. We can re-evaluate and tweak these goals as time goes on.
3.Finish and Reflect
After concluding the treatment plan, we take time to reflect. Here, you tell us what your experience was like. If you still find yourself struggling in certain areas of your life, we may suggest further therapy to keep you on track and manage your stress.
Readings on Stress Management and Therapy
“Beyond the Relaxation Response” by Herbert Benson (1985)
“A Mindfulness Stress-Reduction Workbook” by Goldstein and Stahl (2010)
Stress Management in Ontario and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
We offer a wide range of services at Mind + Zest which include: stress management counselling and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with stress management therapists.
If you or someone you know is struggling, don't hesitate to reach out. The Mind + Zest team here to help. Click below and get connected to a therapist as quickly as today!
