Group counselling is therapy led by a qualified mental health professional that includes two or more participants in a group setting. In the group, participants work through the purpose of the group as a supportive function that helps both the individual participants and each other vicariously. Benefits include: *Support and perspective—individuals hear from and can receive perspective from others facing similar challenges. *Reduce isolation—people who are struggling often feel that they are all alone. *Skill Development—the therapist and group members share new coping mechanisms and skills. *Sense of Community—Group counselling can create a sense of belonging. Contact us for group counselling opportunities.
Community News
Breathe for Tension Relief
Feeling tense or anxious? This easy breathing exercise can help you reset anytime, anywhere. Begin by taking slow, gentle breaths – filling your lungs fully, then exhaling with a soft sigh. As you breathe out, imagine releasing stress and tension. Soften your jaw, drop your shoulders, and relax your hands. With each exhale, permit yourself to let go. Continue with steady, calming breaths, allowing your body to unwind. Finally, feel a soothing wave of relaxation washing over you from head to toe. Just a few minutes of mindful breathing can bring clarity, calm, and a renewed sense of ease.
Did You Know?
Did you know? Arthritis isn’t just one disease—it actually refers to over 100 different types of joint conditions, each affecting the body in unique ways.
Clean Eating Recipe
Sweet Potato Brownies. Preheat oven to 350°F and line an 8×8” baking dish with parchment. Cook sweet potatoes until soft, cool and puree. In a bowl, mix sweet potato puree, ½ cup peanut butter, ⅓ cup maple syrup, 2 eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth. In another bowl, combine ⅔ cup whole wheat flour, ½ cup cocoa powder, 1 tsp baking powder, and ¼ tsp salt. Stir dry ingredients into wet, then fold in ⅔ cup chocolate chips. Spread batter in dish and bake 20-25 minutes until set.
Book Club:
The Holistic Rheumatoid Arthritis Guide: Take Control, Find Relief and Thrive. By Dr. Ananta Subedi, MD, MPH. A step-by-step guide to reversing inflammation, easing joint pain, and embracing a healthier, vibrant life. Whether you’re struggling with symptoms, or searching for a natural and effective approach to relief pain from rheumatoid arthritis, this book delivers what you need.
Living Well with Arthritis
Arthritis affects many seniors, causing joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. The most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. While it can be challenging, proper management helps maintain an active lifestyle. Low-impact exercises like swimming or tai chi improve flexibility and reduce pain. Custom orthotics and assistive devices can protect joints. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods—like leafy greens, berries, and omega-3s—may also ease symptoms. Staying socially engaged and physically active supports both joint and mental health. With the right approach, seniors can manage arthritis and continue doing the things they love.
Everyone Has One
Everyone has one… a shadow that is! The darker more hidden side of oneself which is not yet conscious, that we try our best to hide and not show to others in fear of not being liked or accepted. We do our very best to push it down and hold it at bay as it exposes our vulnerabilities and imperfections. Eventually, over time, for better or for worse, it raises itself and seeps out into our longer-term relationships. Dr Carl Jung, wisely said” if we don’t embrace our shadow, our shadow embraces us”. The more we can recognize and take ownership of our shadow parts…the healthier and less defensive our relationships both with ourselves and others become.
Understanding Histamine Intolerance
Frequent headaches, flushing, digestive upset, or allergy-like symptoms without a clear cause may point to histamine intolerance. Histamine is a natural compound involved in immunity, digestion, and nerve signaling. It’s found in certain foods and produced by the body, then broken down by enzymes like DAO and HNMT. When histamine builds up faster than it’s cleared, symptoms occur. Common signs include headaches, rashes, nasal congestion, bloating, diarrhea, and anxiety. Causes may include low DAO activity, gut imbalances (like SIBO), mold exposure, or high-histamine foods such as aged cheeses, fermented products, alcohol, and processed meats. Identifying triggers and supporting healthy histamine metabolism—often with diet and gut support—can bring significant relief.
Take Steps to Protect Your Hearing
Hearing is something we rely on every day—for conversations, connection, and the sounds that make life enjoyable. But many people don’t realize that hearing loss can often be prevented. Exposure to loud noise, untreated ear infections, and certain medications can all impact your hearing over time. The good news is that simple steps—like using ear protection, lowering volume, and getting regular checkups—can help preserve it. A hearing professional can assess your hearing health and guide you in keeping it strong. With a free hearing test and expert care, we’re here to help you protect what matters most.
Is a Reverse Mortgage for You?
If you are house-rich and cash flow poor, a Reverse Mortgage may be right for you. The amount you can qualify for is based on the age of the youngest spouse, minimum 55. You can get up to 55% of the value of your home that you can take all at once, in periodic lump sums or by monthly/annual draws. Payments are not required until the death of the owner(s) or the sale of the property. Current rates are 6.59% for a five-year fixed term. Contact me for a free, no-obligation consultation to determine if a Reverse Mortgage is right for you.
Put Your Logo on the New SOS Bus
SOS urgently needs the community’s help to replace its aging bus. For 57 years, SOS has helped ease isolation and build community by connecting people of all ages to programs that support their well-being. The SOS Connecting Community Campaign aims to raise $200,000 for the new bus. The bus supports essential programs, including taking seniors grocery shopping, children to our after-school programs, and exciting outings for families and youth. Businesses can get their logo on the new bus by making a qualifying donation. Contact SOS for more information or donate on our website.
