Ready, Set, Grow

Looking for a new perspective? Come on in! Annette Poechman proudly presents Ready, Set, Grow. Understand, cope and develop personal strategies for relationships and success in life. Join the list. Enjoy tomorrow!

Hurt vs Harm: The Brain / Pain Connection

By Guest Blogger: Colin W. Oczkowski, BAS, DPT, CSCS, PT Registered Physiotherapist A young client, let’s call her Mary, presented with unrelenting knee pain. It had worsened over several years to the point where she could barely walk the hallways at school – not to mention the agony when navigating stairs. After a consultation and … Read more

The Connection Between Your Pain and Your Brain!

The relationship between pain and brain (psychology) is intertwined. While pain can be attributed to physical causes such as accidents, injuries, or structural issues, psychological factors can play a role in the development, persistence, and severity of pain. It is important to point out that while psychological factors can influence pain, it does not mean … Read more

Who In Your Life Is Your Chosen Family?

Most days in my office there is a discussion about family. Family that is loved. Family that is not. Family that has done harm. Family that has died or is missing. There is much pain surrounding family. Often I talk about “chosen family”. These are the people in our lives that matter who are not … Read more

The Importance of Pets and Mental Health

We adopted a pet last fall. Our newest feline friend, Ruckus has prompted this blog post. Ruckus lowers my stress level. He is a fun companion, who at the end of a busy day (for all of us), is more than happy to curl up on my lap or head-butt my chin. It made me … Read more

Making Psychotherapy Services Tax-Free

On February 21, 2023 Bill 61, Making Psychotherapy Services Tax-Free Act was introduced into the provincial legislature for its first reading. The Bill’s aim is to remove the unfair tax treatment levied against Registered Psychotherapists who are the only regulated mental health professionals that have to charge their clients 13% HST. Since the pandemic, there … Read more