BEAUTIFUL BRAINS BLOG

We’re invested in your mental health and wellbeing. Our blog posts focus on topics related to ADHD, mental health, relationships, substance use and 2SLGBTQIA+ identities.

Rediscovering the True "Self": A Deep Dive into Personal Wellness and Self-Care
Ashleigh Lucas, MSW RSW Ashleigh Lucas, MSW RSW

Rediscovering the True "Self": A Deep Dive into Personal Wellness and Self-Care

Understanding the "Self" often starts by sifting through the early threads of our upbringing, sometimes confronting painful truths about the spaces we weren't allowed to explore freely. As we unpack and redefine Self-care, shedding the layers shaped by patriarchal and colonial narratives, we invite a broader, more authentic integration of self-care practices that resonates deeply with our true being. Through this blog, we endeavour to guide you in finding harmony across the eight domains of wellness, encouraging a holistic approach that aligns the physical, spiritual, emotional, and beyond, crafting a personal wellness journey that truly feels like your own.

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How to Be a ‘Good Enough’ Queer Parent: Letting Go of Perfection
Zachary Templeman, RP (Qualifying) Zachary Templeman, RP (Qualifying)

How to Be a ‘Good Enough’ Queer Parent: Letting Go of Perfection

Explore how 'good enough parenting' can enhance connections in queer families by embracing imperfection and focusing on repair. Discover how releasing unrealistic expectations, particularly for queer and trans parents, nurtures authentic relationships with their children. Gain practical insights into supporting queerspawn, fostering open communication, and creating space for both parents and children to embrace their full, imperfect selves.

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Observing Autistic Strengths in Neurodivergence Affirming Therapy
Joey Harding, RP (Qualifying) Joey Harding, RP (Qualifying)

Observing Autistic Strengths in Neurodivergence Affirming Therapy

Discover how recognizing and harnessing autistic strengths can enhance the therapeutic process. Explore five key strengths—creative thinking, pattern recognition, a strong sense of justice, hyper-systemizing, and special interests—and learn how these can be leveraged to support clients in reaching their goals. This strengths-based approach not only aligns therapy with the individual's unique qualities but also fosters greater self-compassion and personal growth.

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How I Use Internal Family Systems Therapy to Support Myself and My Clients
Victor Feunekes MSW, RSW Victor Feunekes MSW, RSW

How I Use Internal Family Systems Therapy to Support Myself and My Clients

Explore how Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy can enhance therapeutic relationships by recognizing and showing compassion towards different parts of oneself. Discover how this approach helps therapists maintain presence and avoid burnout by fostering Self energy, characterized by groundedness and calm. Learn practical steps to engage with IFS, such as specific training recommendations and ways to build connections with your own protective parts.

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Easing Our Anxiety By Embracing Our Distress
Chris Peressotti, MACP, RP(Qualifying) Chris Peressotti, MACP, RP(Qualifying)

Easing Our Anxiety By Embracing Our Distress

Discover insights on managing anxiety by embracing it with compassion and acceptance. Learn how Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy can help decrease anxiety by recognizing and showing compassion towards different parts of yourself. Uncover opportunities for relief and personal growth within your distress.

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Using Art and Creative Practices to Connect to Your Authentic Self
Emily Hostland, MA, DTATI, RP Emily Hostland, MA, DTATI, RP

Using Art and Creative Practices to Connect to Your Authentic Self

Discover the healing potential within yourself through art. Therapy emphasizes the importance of self-discovery, and Expressive Arts Therapy can be a powerful means for self-care and understanding. Embrace self-expression, break free from societal norms, and discover the profound benefits of art and play.

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ADHD and Sleep: Understanding the Connection
Stephanie Fink, MSW Student Stephanie Fink, MSW Student

ADHD and Sleep: Understanding the Connection

Sleep challenges frequently accompany ADHD, a shared struggle across all ages; this article explores the relationship between the two and offers strategies for better rest.

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How to navigate relationships in a multicultural family.
Yasmin Dahleh RP(Qualifying) Yasmin Dahleh RP(Qualifying)

How to navigate relationships in a multicultural family.

Growing up in a multicultural family is simultaneously enriching and challenging. Here are some practical tips from relationship therapist Yasmin Dahleh on how to sustain and improve these relationships.

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Is Covid-19 the New Relationship Incubator?
Mishele Kaplan B.Sc., MSc. Mishele Kaplan B.Sc., MSc.

Is Covid-19 the New Relationship Incubator?

What can we learn about relationships from couples cohabitating together during COVID-19? Relationship researcher Mishele Kaplan shares how couples coped and used the pandemic as a catalyst to improve their relationships.

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How to find the right therapist: Choosing a therapist for (and with) your parts.
Jared Dalton MSW RSW Jared Dalton MSW RSW

How to find the right therapist: Choosing a therapist for (and with) your parts.

“Listen to your inner wisdom as it emerges in feelings, sensations and knowings. Notice the tension in your body and how it responds to the words and presence of your would be mental health care provider. Listen to your inner protectors, are they creating distance or inviting closeness… Look for the parts of you that are longing for connection and healing. The parts that need to be seen, heard and felt. Do they feel safe in the presence of this prospective counsellor?”

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