LightHouse Counselling and Wellness

It's a pleasure to introduce you to Sameen Salim, a Registered Psychotherapist with LightHouse who works with individuals 16+. She is currently accepting new clients!!

Sameen is an experienced practitioner with a non-judgmental approach. She is fluent in Urdu and can converse in Hindi and Punjabi!

Here is what Sameen wants you to know:

"My approach to therapy is client-centred, strengths-based, and collaborative. I believe you are the expert on you. To fit your unique needs, I take an integrative approach, pulling from various evidence-based therapeutic techniques. Taking the fullness of your experience (past experiences, culture, relationships, etc.) into consideration, I aim to support you in your journey towards growth and healing."

www.lighthousecw.ca

🐴 The 4 Horsemen of Communication in Relationships 🐴

Navigating communication in relationships isn't always easy. Be on the lookout for these 4️⃣ common pitfalls, known as the "Four Horsemen" by relationship experts:

1️⃣ Criticism: Watch out for attacking your partner's character instead of addressing a specific behaviour or issue.

2️⃣ Contempt: Avoid the toxic trap of disrespect, mockery, or disdain towards your partner. It erodes the foundation of love and trust.

3️⃣ Defensiveness: Instead of taking responsibility or listening, defensiveness puts up walls, hindering productive communication.

4️⃣ Stonewalling: Shutting down or withdrawing from conversation can signal avoidance or emotional disconnection, leading to unresolved issues.

Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward healthier communication. Replace criticism with kindness, contempt with appreciation, defensiveness with openness, and stonewalling with active engagement.

Remember, communication is the lifeline of any relationship! If you want to learn more about how to overcome these challenges, reach out to us and inquire about our virtual couples workshop!

Even in the most loving relationships, bumps in the road are inevitable. Here are 5️⃣ common hurdles Canadian couples might face, and remember, you're not alone:

1️⃣ Communication Breakdowns: Keeping those lines open is crucial! 🗣️ Listen, understand, and communicate your needs.

2️⃣ Conflict Management: Disagreements are normal. Learn to listen, compromise, and find solutions together. It's not about winning; it's about understanding each other.

3️⃣ Financial Stress: 💰 Money matters can strain even the strongest bonds. Be transparent, set goals, and tackle money issues together.

4️⃣ Family Dynamics: In-laws, cultural differences, or parenting styles can stir the pot. Navigate together, set boundaries, and support each other.

5️⃣ Intimacy Issues: Stress, fatigue, or just life's twists can impact intimacy. Keep that flame alive with quality time and connection.

Remember, facing challenges is part of the journey. Stay strong, communicate, and tackle them together! 💪❤️

Need help overcoming these issues? Follow the link in our bio to contact our admin team today!

An important notice for our Richmond Clients regarding construction along Franktown Road and travel times to Richmond Clinic
https://mailchi.mp/b9ada9c23853/important-notice-construction-impacting-travel-time-to-richmond-clinic

Join us every Saturday at 10 AM, from June 1st to 22nd, for an enriching journey in strengthening your relationship with your partner!

This is a group every couple should take, as it walks you through Gottman's 7 principles for making your relationship work.

Discover the keys to friendship, admiration, and intimacy, while mastering conflict resolution skills. Plus, we provide receipts for insurance reimbursement.

Let's pave the way to lasting happiness together! 💑

Contact us to secure your spot. Space is limited.

613-519-5775
[email protected]

Wow, do we ever love our neighbours! Panorama Aesthetics is kindly offering a discount of 15% off services and products that are purchased during LightHouse's Grand Opening event!

Stop by to meet our wonderful team of therapists and some of our awesome medical professional neighbours!

When: This Friday, April 19th from 4-7:00pm
Where: Panorama Wellness Centre, second floor suite 202

See you there!

What are you doing on Friday?

Why not pop by and help us celebrate the grand opening of our new Kanata clinic! A sanctuary for healing and growth, right in the heart of your community!

We are delighted to have fabulous guests, including City Councillor Cathy Curry, our friends at Pure Kitchen, and the lovely Paula-Ann from Panorama Aesthetics.

Indulge in light snacks and refreshing and nutritious juices provided by Pure Kitchen, while getting an exclusive tour of our beautiful new space.

Don't miss out on:

Free mental health consultations with our therapists

Information and first dibs at our services and programs

Meeting our wonderful team and other medical professionals from the building

Mark your calendars and spread the word! Your presence will make it a memorable one! See you there! 🎈

www.lighthousecw.ca

Gosh are we ever lucky! Another fabulous new member joining the LightHouse admin team. Next time you visit or call, Karen will be here to answer your questions, help you book appointments, and make you feel comfortable and cared for. Please welcome, Karen!

Karen is new to the Ottawa area, having relocated to be closer to her family and focus on a balanced lifestyle. In her free time, Karen can be found baking up a storm in her kitchen, doing laps at the pool, or listening to music and audiobooks.

We can't wait for you to meet her!

🌟 Calling all parents with little ones under 6 years old! Join our online Attachment Parenting Group led by the incredible Jackie Scholz, RSW, starting April 29th! 🤱✨

Get ready for 8 weeks of insightful sessions, Mondays at 10 am, where we'll delve into topics essential for nurturing strong parent-child bonds.

Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today by reaching out to us at [email protected]! Invest in your parenting journey for just $100 per session. Receipts are provided. 💪👶

Our LightHouse team is growing! Let me introduce you to one of our newest members of the administration team; Jessica Gagliano!

Jessica studied at Carleton University where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in Childhood and Youth Studies. She is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University with hopes of becoming a Registered Psychotherapist.

In her free time, Jessica enjoys taking long walks in nature, spending time with friends, family, and her cat (Margot), and learning more about our relationship with the earth, ourselves, and each other.

Next time you see her around, be sure to give her a nice, warm, LightHouse welcome!!

It’s official! We’ve opened the doors to our newest location in Kanata, 1380 Upper Canada Street, Unit 202! We can’t even begin to tell you how grateful we are for all of you and for the opportunities we’ve been given to create this beautiful space where acceptance, healing, empathy, and growth take place. Please come celebrate with us by popping by April 19, 2024 between 4-7pm. Meet our fabulous team of helpers, connect with the LightHouse community, and end the week with joy and good vibes. All are welcome!
We can’t wait to see you.

Welcome To Our New Kanata Location -

Welcome To Our New Kanata Location We are thrilled to announce that we are officially open and have relocated to our new location in Kanata at 1380 Upper Canada Street. This move represents an exciting chapter for us, and we are eager to welcome you to our new space. Beginning immediately, all future appointments in Kanata will take....

Are you navigating the journey of parenthood with a child under 6 years old? Feeling inundated by a flood of information on managing the many challenges that come with raising little ones? Wanting to parent with a blend of love, confidence while ensuring your child's path to success is well-paved?

Join our upcoming Circle of Security Online Parenting Group This group is tailored for parents just like you, who cherish the dream of seeing your children thrive, radiate happiness, and feel profoundly secure in your love.

📅 Mark your calendars: April 29th - June 24th, every Monday from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with other parents, gain valuable insights, and strengthen your bond with your little ones! 💖

✨ What to Expect:

8 weekly sessions filled with enriching discussions, expert guidance from an experienced facilitator, and practical tools and strategies for nurturing secure parent-child relationships.

Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your spot today! For more information and to register, DM us or check out https://lighthousecw.ca/circle-of-security-parenting-program/ for more information.

🌟

🌟 Exciting News 🌟

Our Kanata office is on the move!

This April 2024, we'll be welcoming you at our brand-new Kanata location, located on the 2nd floor of the Panorama Wellness Centre at 1380 Upper Canada Street! This location is only minutes away from our current Kanata office, and is conveniently located next to the Tanger Outlets (for any fellow shoppers)!

Same dedicated team, same exceptional care, just a new, fresh space to support you on your journey to wellness!

To book your session at our new location, click here
https://lighthousesupport.janeapp.com/locations/lighthouse-kanata-at-panorama-wellness-centre/book

Stay tuned for more updates and details! 📢

If you've never been to therapy before, it can feel a little intimidating...What do I do when I arrive? What do I say? What's it going to be like?!? You have no idea how many people share that they felt so nervous before coming to therapy, and now it's one of their favourite parts of the week!

So, let's see if I can help those of you who haven't started your journey yet by walking you through some of what you can expect when receiving services from LightHouse. LightHouse is a special place...you're about to step into a space where you're truly seen, heard, validated, and accepted exactly as you are. 💫

When you arrive, get ready for a nice, warm welcome from your LightHouse admin team! Our priority is to make you feel safe and comfortable. We will offer you coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and water. We have snacks available for your little ones, light music playing in the background, access to wi-fi, and lots of natural light.

In session, picture a cozy room, soft lighting, and someone who genuinely cares and joins you on your journey of healing and self-exploration. 💖

Don't know what to say? That's totally OK!! Your therapist will guide you. They are gifted at getting to know you with care and compassion- and they'll do so at a pace that is right for you. 🤗✨

Be as authentic as you can- we understand sometimes even that feels scary, so if you need to hold parts of yourself back at first, that's ok, but know that when you feel safe enough, we are here to receive all of you with open arms. There's no judgment here, only acceptance and understanding. 🌈💕

After your session is over, our admin team at our Kanata location will be happy to help you process payment and book you in for more sessions!
Attending the Richmond location or virtually? Your payment will be processed online, and your therapist can assist you in booking more sessions.

Any other questions, drop them below or reach out to us. You're on the brink of something beautiful—an incredible journey of self-discovery and healing. Embrace it with open arms, and know that we are always here for you.

Excited to introduce Mehana, our newest Child & Family Therapist! With a Master's in Counselling Psychology and a background in Psychology & Sports Studies, Mehana offers expertise in behavioural, emotional, and relationship issues, as well as support for athletes. Her down-to-earth nature and passion for rural communities shine through, creating a safe and collaborative space for healing. Drawing from various modalities, Mehana is dedicated to guiding clients toward fulfillment and happiness.
Welcome Mehana to our team! 🌟

Meet the newest addition to the LightHouse Counselling & Wellness team!

If you're looking for someone who is warm and empathetic, Aaliya may be the right fit for you! She works with Adults, Teens, and members of the BIPOC and LGBTQ2SIA+ community. Aaliya focuses on treating those who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress management, self-esteem, trauma, people-pleasing tendencies, and relationship challenges using several modalities including Emotion-Focused Therapy, DBT, CBT, and Compassion-Focused Therapy.

She is available daytime, evenings and weekends!

If you are interested in booking an appointment, check out www.lighthousecw.ca and meet Aaliya for a free 20-minute virtual consult!

Check out this month's Ray of Light News

November's Ray of Light News Hello and Happy November! I hope all of you are keeping warm and well. No better time to grab your warm blankets, cozy clothes, and warm beverages while you delve into this month’s issue of the Ray of Light news.

We are so happy to introduce you to our newest Child and Family therapist, Stacey!

Stacey has incredible experience, is kind and compassionate, and can't wait to help you and your little ones :)

She uses an integrative and collaborative approach with her young clients and families. She is trained in Collaborative Problem-Solving, Trauma-Focused CBT, Emotion-Focused Family Therapy and Eating Disorders. She fosters a safe and inclusive environment, with person-centered and harm-reduction practices forming the foundation of her work.

Outside of LightHouse, you'll find Stacey experimenting in the kitchen and testing her hand at photography. She enjoys travelling, listening to music, baking, hiking, spending time outdoors and trying out new recipes.

If you're a parent looking for a skilled therapist to work with you and/or your child, book a free consultation with Stacey by clicking the link in our bio!

Excited to introduce you to the newest member of the LightHouse team, Julie Ryan! I can't wait for you to meet her!! She will be one of the lovely ladies greeting you when you arrive for your appointments and making sure you have what you need to feel comfortable!

Julie is married with two grown daughters, one son-in-law, two grandchildren and two little poodles named Harvey and Charlie. She’s been a proud resident of Kanata for over 30 years.

In her free time, she enjoys running, taking long walks, practicing yoga, reading, spending time with friends and family, watching hockey and volunteering.

Next time you see her around the office, give her a warm welcome!!

As a mom, there's nothing I want more than for my children to grow up knowing they are loved unconditionally, they are safe, and I will always be there for them.

But let's be honest, parenting is TOUGH, and there is a lot of information and differing opinions out there on how to go about it.

That's why I'm so excited to be offering this program to parents with young children. It's completely online, evidence-based, and it will help you learn how to parent in a way that leaves your child knowing they are loved, accepted, and safe (even when faced with difficult behaviour).

This group will fill up fast, with only 8 spots available. If you're interested, give us a call or send us an email and we can chat to see if it would be a good fit. The first session starts on October 16th!

[email protected]
613-519-5775
https://lighthousecw.ca/circle-of-security-parenting-program/

Hey there, amazing friends! 👋 Have you been thinking about starting therapy, but haven't taken that next step? Let me introduce you to an exciting opportunity; therapy with a clinical intern!

There are so many benefits to working with interns:

#1- Fresh Perspective: Clinical interns often bring fresh and innovative perspectives to the therapeutic process. Their training is up-to-date with the latest psychological theories and techniques, which can provide you with new insights and approaches to your challenges.

#2- Enthusiasm and Dedication: Interns are typically highly motivated and enthusiastic about their work. They are eager to learn and apply their skills, which can translate into a high level of dedication to your progress and well-being.

#3- Personalized Attention: Interns often have smaller caseloads and more flexible schedules, allowing them to dedicate more time and attention to each client. This means you might have more frequent sessions and more personalized care.

#4- Supervision and Collaboration: Interns work under the supervision of experienced licensed professionals. This means that your counselling sessions are not only influenced by the intern's insights but ALSO guided and refined by the expertise of their supervisor. It's like having two therapists in one!

#5 Affordability: Clinical interns typically offer their services at a lower cost compared to fully licensed therapists. This can make therapy more accessible to individuals who may have financial constraints but still want to benefit from professional support.

Remember, when considering working with an intern, it's important to ensure that they are supervised by a licensed professional and are enrolled in a reputable training program. This ensures that you receive quality care and support throughout your therapeutic journey.

If you're interested in a free consult with one of our clinical interns, reach out to us!

[email protected] or 613-519-5775

You can also book a consult online by following this link: https://lighthousesupport.janeapp.com/locations/lighthouse-kanata-virtual/book #/staff_member/15

EXCITING NEWS! This fall, join our nurturing and supportive Circle of Security Online Parenting Group to strengthen the bond between you and your little one in a whole new way.

🌟 What is Circle of Security?
It is more than just a parenting group – it's a proven method to help you understand your child, their needs, and how you can meet them while placing your relationship at the centre of it all. You will engage in interactive sessions, heartfelt discussions, and will learn evidence-based techniques that promote strong, secure attachment with your child.

📅 When?
Starting this October, every Monday from 10-11 am.
Our sessions run for 8 weeks, providing you with a wealth of insights to carry with you throughout your parenting journey.

🌈 Why Join?
✅ Discover your child's needs behind their behaviours.
✅ Build a secure and loving parent-child relationship.
✅ Connect with a community of like-minded parents.
✅ Gain confidence in your parenting skills.

📍 Where?
From the comfort of your own home :) Online Virtual Platform

📞 Reserve Your Spot Today!
Spaces are limited to ensure a personalized experience for all participants. Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity to grow together with your child.

To register or learn more, visit https://lighthousecw.ca/circle-of-security-parenting-program/ or contact us at 613-519-5775 or [email protected].

Let's make this fall a season of connection and love! 🌻

Introducing the newest addition to the LightHouse team, Andrew Hawkins!

Andrew is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who works with teens 12+ and adults. He is bilingual and has daytime, evening and weekend availability. Andrew works with clients using a combination of cognitive behavioural, acceptance and commitment, solution-based, and existential approaches. His areas of focus include anxiety, depression, addictions, PTSD, and sports and performance psychology.

Here is what Andrew wants you to know...

"Throughout life, we will encounter challenging situations and events where our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are not aligned with who we are and where we want to be. It is during these times when counselling can be so helpful. Using different approaches that encourage behavioural and cognitive changes, I will work with you to develop a plan that addresses your specific needs and that will help you heal and grow."

Book a consult with Andrew today at: https://lighthousesupport.janeapp.com/locations/lighthouse-kanata-virtual/book #/staff_member/14

Start your therapeutic journey this summer, and bloom into the best version of yourself!
🌻🌿 "

www.lighthousecw.ca
[email protected]
613-519-5775

Sometimes, we avoid showing vulnerability in an attempt to avoid being hurt. We develop a hard shell or exterior to protect ourselves, also known as “turtle-ing”. The thing about "turtle-ing" is that, while we protect ourselves from potential hurts, we also close ourselves off from other amazing experiences like love, support, and joy.

This concept and metaphor is something LightHouse’s therapist, Robin, sometimes refers to in session. It puts a name to what so commonly happens in clients who have been hurt in the past. If you feel like you are struggling with Turtle-ing in your life, book a free consult with Robin using the link in our bio!

www.lighthousecw.ca

Because sometimes you just need to freshen things up :)

And that's what we did here at LightHouse. We have a new website to reflect who we are and how we help. Check it out and let us know what you think!

www.lighthousecw.ca

We are so excited to announce the newest addition to our LightHouse team, Kiana MacDonell!!

Kiana graduated from the University of Ottawa in 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences. She plans to return to uOttawa to begin a Masters of Public Health and hopefully pursue a career in public health practice. Kiana enjoys fitness, playing soccer, spending time with family and friends and volunteering in her spare time.

Kiana will be there to welcome you when you arrive for your sessions at our Kanata office. Be sure to give her a warm hello when you see her!

Rest and Play are two fundamental needs we have as humans, yet many people find themselves working on overdrive for so long without rest or play. When this happens, eventually our internal systems can't keep up and our physical and mental wellness suffer.

Prioritizing rest and play takes intention and courage when we find ourselves in environments that reward those who don't rest. To honour what we need as humans, sometimes we need to go against what is being reinforced and rewarded, and instead do what we know is right for our overall mental health and wellness.

Not always easy, but always worth it.