‘Your happiness should come from within! You shouldn’t be dependent on your partner. You are responsible for your own well-being. You should learn not to allow your inner peace to be disturbed by those closest to you.’

We’ve all heard, been given or perhaps passed along this relationship advice to friends.

But I disagree! Let me tell you why…

As a Registered Social Worker and counsellor here in Calgary, I commonly see individuals who are struggling with their mental health. However in consultation with the client, it quickly becomes clear that the entire family, not just the individual, are both impacted by the problem and could positively contribute to the solutions.

Boundaries are essential to our lives. They help create a safe space for individuals to live and interact with others. They define who we are, what we value, what we are willing to accept and what we are not willing to accept. They serve as limits that protect us, preserve our self-worth, and allow us to experience healthy, mutually respectful relationships.

Raising emotionally intelligent children is crucial for their development and well-being. Emotionally intelligent children are able to effectively understand, express and regulate their emotions, as well as empathize with others. This means that they are better equipped to handle stress, communicate effectively, and form healthy relationships as they get older.

Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art materials, such as paints, pastels, collage, and clay, to help people explore their internal world, express their feelings, and make sense of their experiences. It combines non-verbal forms of expression, with written and verbal reflections. Art therapy can be used in conjunction with other forms of therapy, such as talk therapy or medication, to provide a well-rounded approach to treatment.