During a recent session with a client who struggles with anxiety and depression, I introduced the concepts of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to help her alleviate her symptoms. Read this article to learn more about how I use CBT in therapy sessions.
This woman seemed to be quite familiar with some of the CBT concepts and I asked her where she learned them. She went on the tell me that she was taking a free course which utilizes CBT to help people to better manage anxiety and depression.
Here in BC, its called Bounceback and is offered through the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA).
In case you haven’t heard about CMHA before, here is an overview of this wonderful organization:
Founded in 1918, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is a national charity that helps maintain and improve mental health for all Canadians. As the nation-wide leader and champion for mental health, CMHA promotes the mental health of all and supports the resilience and recovery of people experiencing mental illness.
In BC, mental health, substance use and addictive behaviour are within the scope of the organization.
Through our family of over 100 local, provincial and national locations across Canada, CMHA provides a wide range of innovative services and supports tailored to and in partnership with our communities.
What is BounceBack?
It is a free, evidence-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) program designed to provide support to adults and youth 15+ who need help managing low mood, mild to moderate depression and anxiety, stress or worry.
It’s free, there is no wait period, and no travel is required.
Since being launched across BC in 2008, the program has shown to reduce depressive and anxious symptoms by 50% at program completion.
To explore the breadth and depth of the BounceBack program, I suggest you check out their website which can be accessed by clicking on this link.
Here’s an overview of what is on offer:
BounceBack® Coaching
If you like having someone motivate and encourage you to reflect, the coaching program may be right for you. A trained BounceBack® coach will help you learn skills to improve your mental health in up to six telephone sessions over three to six months. Your coach will help keep you on track and offer support as you work through the program materials. You design your own program by selecting materials from 20 different modules. Coaching + workbooks are available in English, French, Mandarin, Cantonese or Punjabi.
BounceBack® Online
If you prefer to work independently, check out our online program. Access 20 modules that include workbooks, interactive worksheets and videos designed to help you overcome low-mood and worry. Set your own schedule and get the tools you need to help yourself. Workbooks are available in English.
BounceBack® Today Video
If you’re not quite ready for the BounceBack® Coaching or Online, or are waiting for your coaching sessions to begin, check out our series of online videos. The videos will provide you with practical tips on managing your mood, sleeping better, building confidence, increasing activity, problem solving and healthy living.
