Family Therapy

  In the bustling city of Ottawa, finding ways to prioritize self-care is essential for maintaining your overall well-being. It starts with acknowledging that taking care of yourself is not selfish but necessary. Nataxja Cini, MSW, RSW one of the  counsellors at Family-Therapy in Ottawa , says that it is important to allocate time for activities you enjoy, whether it’s taking a walk along the scenic Rideau Canal, going hiking, or indulging in a relaxing session at one of the spas in the area. Remember, self-care is a personal journey, so tailor it to your preferences.  What role does mindfulness play in self-care?  Mindfulness is a valuable practice, especially in a city known for its fast-paced lifestyle like Ottawa. Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment, which can help manage your stress and prevent you from becoming overwhelmed by the stressors you have in your life. Engaging in mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can he...

It’s normal, on occasion, to go back and double-check that the door is locked, worry about germs, or have occasional unpleasant reoccurring thoughts. However, if you suffer from obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours can become so consuming that they interfere with your daily life. OCD is an  anxiety disorder  characterized by uncontrollable, unwanted thoughts, and ritualized repetitive behaviours you feel compelled to perform. If you have OCD, you probably recognize that your obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors are irrational—but even so, you feel unable to resist them and break free.  Like a needle getting stuck on an old record, OCD causes the brain to get stuck on a particular thought or urge. For example, you may check the stove 21 times to make sure it’s really turned off or wash your hands until they’re scrubbed raw for fear of germs. While you don’t derive any sense of pleasure from performing these repetitive b...