North Central Behavioral Health Systems has recently launched our Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program in Ottawa, aiming to provide comprehensive care for individuals coping with substance use disorders. This evidence-based treatment method integrates FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapies.
From a Therapist / Dealing with Holiday Stress
Oftentimes the holidays will bring about a certain level of unwanted stress in our lives. If not dealt with in an effective and healthy way this stress and depression can often ruin our holidays and impact our health. Being realistic, planning ahead and seeking support from others can help ward off stress and depression.
From a Therapist / Separation Anxiety in Children
At this time of year many children are making the transition from a fun filled summer to the excitement of a new school year. Having some anxiety and apprehension about a new situation is part of their normal development and with understanding and patience parents can help children build coping skills and their anxiety can be relieved.
However, some children’s anxiety is so intense that it becomes a separation anxiety disorder. These children’s fears keep them from normal activities. Here are some examples:
From a Therapist / Does My Child Need Therapy?
Questions to Ask Yourself
There are a number of factors in determining the appropriateness of treatment.
1. Is this emotional distress disrupting daily functioning, threatening to overwhelm the child or interfering with age-appropriate emotional development?
For example, parental divorce is an emotionally upsetting experience that children react to in a variety of ways. If a child's reaction lasts longer than a month and is prevalent in other settings besides home, this indicates that normal functioning has become disrupted.
