Anger Management

Click here to meet our therapists that treat this condition.

What are Anger Management Issues?

Anger management issues refers to when an individual’s anger causes significant issues in most or all aspects of their lives. Typically, anger management issues occur in tandem or are a symptom of other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or OCD. While anger management issues can present differently in individuals depending on their gender, age, etc., common symptoms for it include^1,2:

Inward Anger – internal displays of anger

• Negative self-talk
• Self-blame and/or guilt
• Self-harm

Outward Anger – external displays of anger Outward Anger – external displays of anger

• Causing verbal or physical harm to others
• Breaking things
• Shouting or cursing

Passive Anger – external displays of anger that are less intense than outward anger

• Being sarcastic
• Degrading others
• Shunning or ignoring others
• Sulking or moping

Treatments

Individuals that struggle to manage their anger can benefit from a variety of evidence-based treatments. As difficulty with anger management is often a product of an undiagnosed or untreated mental health condition, it is important to examine any underlying issues with a trained mental health professional. At YRPS, our counselors offer a range of treatments for helping individuals with anger management and overall emotional regulation.

Sources

1. Health Line. (2021). Do I Have Anger Issues? How to Identify and Treat an Angry Outlook. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/anger-issues
2. Medicine Net. (2021). What are Signs of Anger Issues? Retrieved from https://www.medicinenet.com/what_are_signs_of_anger_issues/article.htm

Related Articles

• Control Anger Before it Controls You Read more
• Are Men Angrier Than Women? Read more

Anxiety Disorders and Phobias

Click here to meet our therapists that treat these conditions.

What are Anxiety Disorders and Phobias?

Anxiety disorders are mental health conditions in which people have excessive feelings of anxiety, to the point of it negatively impacting their day-to-day lives. Phobias are the specific fears that cause the excessive anxiety, such as agoraphobia (fear of spiders) or acrophobia (fear of heights). While anxiety disorders can present differently in individuals depending on their gender, age, etc., common disorders and symptoms for it include^1,2:

Generalised Anxiety Disorder

• Persistent and excessive worry about general things, such as chores, job responsibilities, or minor things
• Restlessness or feeling on edge
• Muscle tension
• Easily fatigued
• Insomnia
• Panic attacks (pounding heart, shortness of breath, nausea, chest pain, sweating, shaking)

Social Anxiety Disorder

• Persistent and excessive worry about being embarrassed, humiliated, or rejected in social interactions
• Restlessness or feeling on edge
• Muscle tension and/or elevated blood pressure
• Easily fatigued
• Panic attacks (pounding heart, shortness of breath, nausea, chest pain, sweating, shaking)

Separation Anxiety Disorder

• Persistent or excessive worry about separation from those with whom they’re attached
• Reluctance and/or distress about separation
• Nightmares about separation
• Panic attacks (pounding heart, shortness of breath, nausea, chest pain, sweating, shaking)³

Treatments

Treatment options for anxiety disorders and phobias can range from diet changes to counselling, breathing exercises, and/or medication. At YRPS, our counsellors are trained in evidence-based stress management techniques and therapies to assist you in overcoming your anxieties.

Sources

1. American Psychiatric Association. (2021). What are Anxiety Disorders? Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/anxiety-disorders/what-are-anxiety-disorders
2. Mental Health.Gov. (2017). Phobias. Retrieved from https://www.mentalhealth.gov/what-to-look-for/anxiety-disorders/phobias
3. Health Line. (2019). What are phobias? Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/phobia-simple-specific

Related Articles

• COVID-19 anxiety syndrome: A pandemic phenomenon? Read more
• 9 Breathing Exercises to Relieve Anxiety Read more

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Click here to meet our therapists that treat this condition.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurological condition that primarily affects concentration, organization, and motivation. While the presentation of ADHD can differ depending on gender or age, common symptoms for it include¹:

• Being easily distracted
• Difficulty following instructions
• Being forgetful and/or daydreaming often
• Frequently losing items (e.g., keys, glasses, etc.)
• Not paying attention to details
• Being disorganized
• Having a short attention span
• Trouble staying on task
• Impulsivity

Treatment

While many individuals diagnosed with ADHD do not struggle with hyperactivity or restlessness, they do struggle with other ADHD symptoms. Counseling and medication have proven helpful in managing symptoms of ADHD. At YRPS, our staff are able to diagnose and treat ADHD, as well as explore other options for treatment, including referrals for medications.

Sources

1. Very Well Mind. (2022). ADD and ADHD: Differences, Diagnosis, & Treatments. Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/add-and-attention-deficit-disorders-2161810

Further Reading

• Gender Differences in ADHD Symptoms Read more
• ADHD Symptoms and Signs Read more

Depression

Click here to meet our therapists that treat this condition.

What is Depression?

Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions experienced among people today. Although it’s normal to have bouts of sadness from time to time, depressive symptoms have a severe impact on one’s ability to function in day-to-day life. While depression can present differently in individuals depending on their gender, age, etc., common symptoms for it include^1,2:

• Trouble concentrating
• Feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, apathy, worthlessness, and/or guilt
• Fatigue
• Loss of interest and enjoyment in activities
• Insomnia or sleeping too much
• Loss of motivation, difficulty completing tasks
• Eating too much or too little
• Acts of self-harm
• Suicidal ideation
• Weight loss or weight gain

Depressive symptoms might feel permanent, but with the correct treatment, they can often be helped.

Treatments

While there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for depression, the vast array of treatments available can often feel overwhelming to navigate by yourself. At YRPS, we provide qualified guidance in helping you find a treatment plan that works for you. Our counsellors are trained in a variety of therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), to assist you in leading a healthy, balanced, and fulfilling life.

Sources

1. American Psychiatric Association. (2020). What is Depression? Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression
2. National Institute of Mental Health. (2018). Depression. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression

Related Articles

• Depression in women: Understanding the gender gap Read more
• Depression and Anxiety Are on the Rise Globally Read more

Eating Disorders

Click here to meet our therapists that treat this condition.

What are Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders are behavioural conditions typically related to the individual’s body image, specifically their weight and body shape. Although women are more frequently diagnosed with an eating disorder, these behavioural conditions can affect anyone at any age. While eating disorders can present differently in individuals depending on their gender, age, etc., the three most common disorders and symptoms for it include^1,2:

Anorexia Nervosa

• Losing weight through dieting, fasting or excessively exercising
• Being underweight
• Irregular menstruation
• Dizziness or fainting
• Brittle hair and/or nails
• Muscle weakness
• Heartburn (in cases of purging)
• Osteoporosis
• Depression, anxiety, guilt, low self-esteem, difficulty concentration and/or fatigue

Bulimia Nervosa

• Alternating between eating large amounts of food in a brief period and engaging in compensating behaviours to prevent weight gain, such as fasting, purging or over-exercising
• Chronic sore throat
• Swelling of the salivary glands in the cheeks
• Dental decay as a result of purging
• Heartburn
• Dizziness or fainting
• Depression, anxiety, guilt, low self-esteem, difficulty concentration, and/or fatigue

Binge Eating Disorder

• Eating large amounts of food in a brief period but not engaging in compensatory behaviours to prevent weight gain
• Being overweight
• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Depression, anxiety, guilt, low self-esteem, difficulty concentration, and/or fatigue

Treatments

The most effective treatments for eating disorders are holistic – meaning the treatment targets the physical, psychological, and emotional needs of the individual. It typically consists of developing a nutritional plan, counselling specific to the disorder and underlying body image issues, and/or medications. Our counsellors are able to help you feel more in control through constructive and healthy habit-building.

Sources

1. American Psychiatric Association. (2021). What are Eating Disorders? Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/eating-disorders/what-are-eating-disorders
2. Health Line. (2019). 6 Common Types of Eating Disorders (and Their Symptoms). Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/common-eating-disorders

Related Articles

• Males Don’t Present Like Females with Eating Disorders Read more
• Orthorexia Warning Signs and Symptoms Read more

Gender Dysphoria

Click here to meet our therapists that treat this condition.

What is Gender Dysphoria?

Gender dysphoria is a mental health condition in which individuals, typically transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary people, experience severe psychological distress from a discrepancy between their assigned sex and their gender identity. It is important to note that having a gender identity that does not fall within the gender binary of either “man” or “woman” is not a mental health condition; but the severe psychological distress caused by the discrepancy is. While gender dysphoria can present differently in individuals depending on their gender, age, etc., common symptoms for it include^1,2:

• A significant discrepancy between one’s experienced gender and their primary and/or secondary sex characteristics (or in the case of young adolescents, their anticipated sex characteristics)
• A strong desire to be rid of one’s primary and/or secondary sex characteristics (or in the case of young adolescents, a desire to prevent the development of the anticipated secondary sex characteristics)
• A strong desire for the primary and/or secondary sex characteristics of the other gender
• A strong desire to be the other gender or an alternative gender different to one’s assigned gender
• A strong desire to be seen and treated as the other gender or an alternative gender different to one’s assigned gender
• A strong conviction that one has the typical feelings, thoughts, or behaviours of the other gender or an alternative gender different to one’s assigned gender

Treatments

Transgender, gender-non-conforming, and non-binary individuals are more at risk for depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicide because of the social stigma and/or rejection associated with a diverse gender identity¹. It is essential to create a space free of gender norms, labels, and judgments, so individuals questioning their gender identity can safely explore it. At YRPS, our counselors provide a supportive environment in which education, guidance, and resources are available to help individuals feel comfortable with their gender identity.

Sources

1. American Psychiatric Association. (2020). What is Gender Dysphoria? Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/gender-dysphoria/what-is-gender-dysphoria.
2. Very Well Mind. (2021). What is Gender Dysphoria? Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/gender-dysphoria-5085081

Related Articles

• A Guide To Gender Identity Terms Read more
• The Road to Inclusion: Transgender Health Care in Canada Read more

Grief and Loss

Click here to meet our therapists that treat these conditions.

What is Grief and Loss?

Grief is a natural response to loss. It is the process of adjusting to a significant change in our lives. We may grieve the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, a job, or good health. Although symptoms for grief are often expressed through emotional responses, grief can also present itself in physical, social, and behavioural changes¹. Examples of this include:

Emotional

• Increased irritability
• Feeling numb
• Detachment
• Inability to experience joy

Physical

• Lack of personal care and/or hygiene
• Fatigue
• Changes in weight and/or appetite
• Sleep problems
• Headaches
• Chest pain
• Unexplained muscle aches
• Substance use
• Risk-taking behaviours

Social

• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Increased conflict in relationships

Behavioural

• Inability to start or finish tasks
• Inability to concentrate
• Restlessness or hyperactivity²

Treatment

The grieving process can be painful and overwhelming to go through; however, it is an important part of healing. At YRPS, our counsellors provide guidance in your process so you’re not alone in moving forward. They provide a space to explore thoughts and feelings associated with the loss, as well as coping strategies for moving forward.

Sources

1. Mayo Clinic. (2016). What is grief? Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/patient-visitor-guide/support-groups/what-is-grief
2. Very Well Mind. (2022). How to Cope With the Physical Effects of Grief. Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/physical-symptoms-of-grief-4065135

Further Reading

• Coping with Loss and Grief Read more
• Coping with Grief Read more

Infertility

Click here to meet our therapists that treat this condition.

What is Infertility?

Infertility is a condition that can impact both men and women when trying to conceive a child. Often, it is due to underlying issues in the reproductive system. While individuals struggling with infertility often feel alone in their experience, there are an estimated 186 million people worldwide that suffer from this condition¹.

Infertility can have a significant physical, emotional, and psychological toll on the individual, their partner, and the relationship. Individuals and couples that struggle with infertility can often suffer from²:

• Anger
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Marital problems
• Sexual dysfunction
• Social isolation
• Social stigma
• Sense of loss and/or identity
• Feelings of incompetence or defectiveness
• Low self-esteem

Treatment

Many clinics offer a wide variety of options to achieve conception. Additionally, individual or group counselling specific to infertility is available at YRPS by our highly trained counsellors, some of whom have personal experience with infertility.

Sources

1. World Health Organization. (2020). Infertility. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/infertility
2. MGH Center for Women’s Mental Health. Fertility and Mental Health. Retrieved from https://womensmentalhealth.org/specialty-clinics/infertility-and-mental-health/

Related Articles

• Infertility and Miscarriage: Shame and Stigma Read more
• Goverment of Canada: Fertility Read more

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Click here to meet our therapists that treat this condition.

What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition in which individuals have persistent thoughts, ideas, or sensations (obsessions) that results in repetitive behaviours (compulsions).  Obsessions can often be related to phobias or superstitions, and the according compulsory behaviors interfere with the individual’s ability to function daily. While OCD can present differently in individuals depending on their gender, age, etc., common symptoms for it include^1,2:

Obsessive thoughts

• Common concerns include worries about germs, dirt, or illness; worries about the health and safety of loved ones; fears of harming yourself or others; fear of saying something inappropriate; needing to have possessions symmetrical; worries about discarding items; intrusive images, words, or sounds

Compulsive behaviours

• Common behaviours include excessive washing of hands, body, or objects; organizing objects in a specific way; counting or repeating specific phrases; touching something a number of times; excessive rumination of interactions with others

Compulsive behaviours are performed in response to obsessive thoughts as a way of relieving the fear of the obsessive thought(s) becoming true.

Treatment

Individuals with OCD often struggle with other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, etc. Often, individuals with OCD might be reluctant to seek professional help as they may feel that others are judgmental of their habits and see their fears as irrational. However, through trained and compassionate counselors, it is possible to significantly reduce the impact of OCD on day-to-day life. YRPS therapists are qualified in diagnosing, and addressing OCD in a way that is most beneficial to the individual.

Sources

1. American Psychiatric Association. (2020). What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder? Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ocd/what-is-obsessive-compulsive-disorder
2. Health Line. (2021). Everything You Need to Know about Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/ocd/social-signs

Related Articles

• Types of OCD Read more
• I Have OCD. These 5 Tips Are Helping Me Survive My Coronavirus Anxiety Read more

Personality Disorders

Click here to meet our therapists that treat this condition.

What are Personality Disorders?

Personality Disorders are mental health conditions characterized by rigid and atypical ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving. Individuals with personality disorders often have difficulty relating to others, maintaining relationships, and fitting in. While personality disorders and their corresponding symptoms can present differently in individuals depending on their gender, age, etc., they typically fall under one of three categories^1,2:

Cluster A: Suspicious

• Paranoid personality disorder: distrustful of others and suspicious of their motives
• Schizoid personality disorder: little interest in forming personal relationships; trouble interpreting social cues
• Schizotypal personality disorder: believing one can influence other people or situations solely through their thoughts

Cluster B: Emotional and impulsive

• Antisocial personality disorder: manipulating others through dishonesty and deception, with no remorse
• Borderline personality disorder: unstable relationships, poor emotional regulation, impulsive behaviours; intense fear of abandonment
• Histrionic personality disorder: provocative, dramatic, or attention-seeking behaviours; extremely sensitive to criticism
• Narcissistic personality disorder: inflated sense of self-importance or entitlement; exaggerating achievements; attention-seeking behaviours; a deep need for admiration

Cluster C: Anxious

• Avoidant personality disorder: persistent feelings of inadequacy, inferiority, or unattractiveness; dwelling on criticism from others; avoiding making new friends or trying new activities
• Dependent personality disorder: excessive dependence on others for emotional and physical needs; avoiding being alone and regularly needing reassurance when making decisions
• Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder: having an overwhelming need for order, even at the expense of personal relationships; being uncomfortable when perfection is not achieved; strongly following rules and regulations

Treatment

Individuals with personality disorders are often misdiagnosed with another mental health condition, as many of the symptoms for these disorders overlap. However, correct diagnosis, professional counseling, and/or medication prove to be helpful in assisting those struggling to manage their symptoms and maintain relationships. At YRPS, we are able to assist individuals with personality disorders address their symptoms and provide guidance and resources for emotional regulation.

Sources

1. American Psychiatric Association. (2018). What are Personality Disorders? Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/personality-disorders/what-are-personality-disorders
2. Health Line. (2021). Personality Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/personality-disorders

Related Articles

• Why Borderline Personality Disorder is Misdiagnosed Read more
• Borderline Personality Disorder and Relationships Read more

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Click here to meet our therapists that treat this condition.

What is PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that occurs in response to experiencing or witnessing traumatic events. These events may be life-threatening (e.g. car accidents, natural disasters, war, sexual assault), or otherwise frightening events (e.g. immigration, losing a friend, learning your partner had an affair). While PTSD can present differently in individuals depending on their gender, age and other circumstances, common symptoms for it include:

Intrusion

• Intrusive or disturbing thoughts, memories, dreams, or flashbacks related to the event

Avoidance

• Avoiding people, places, activities, objects, or situations related to the event
• Avoiding talking, thinking, or acknowledging the event

Changes in cognition or mood

• Memory loss related to the event
• Distorted beliefs about themselves or others, or the causes of the event
• Consequent guilt, shame, anger, loss of enjoyment, feelings of detachment, and/or inability to experience positive emotions

Changes in arousal and reactivity

• Irritability and/or angry outbursts
• Reckless or self-destructive behaviours (i.e., dangerous driving, substance use (i.e., alcohol or drugs))
• Paranoia related to the event
• Being easily startled or scared
• Difficulties with concentration and/or sleeping

These symptoms can develop within days or years following the traumatic event(s). Additionally, it can often be difficult to recognize PTSD, as many of the symptoms for it overlap with other mental conditions^1,2.

Treatment

The most effective treatment for PTSD typically involves a combination of psychological counselling and prescribed medication (provided by a psychiatrist) specific to the individual.

At YRPS, our team provide counselling in a safe space for education about PTSD, talking about the trauma directly, challenging intrusive and distorted thinking patterns, and guiding individuals with PTSD in managing their symptoms.

Sources

1. American Psychiatric Association. (2020). What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder? Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ptsd/what-is-ptsd
2. Medline Plus. (2021). Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/posttraumaticstressdisorder.html

Related Articles

• What’s the Deal with Repressed Memories? Read more

Relationship Dysfunction

Click here to meet our therapists that treat this condition.

What is Relationship Dysfunction?

Relationship dysfunction refers to a relationship – platonic, romantic, or familial – in which the nature of the relationship is dysfunctional. Short-term consequences for the individuals involved typically entail feeling unwanted, excluded, and a lack of belonging^1,2. While symptoms for relationship dysfunction vary depending on the kind of relationship, the genders, and ages of those involved, common signs and behaviours of a dysfunctional relationship include:

Family Dysfunction¹

• Routine violation of boundaries and privacy
• Pitting family members against one another
• Gaslighting or denying problems exist
• Abuse or neglect
• Domestic violence
• Lack of stability and/or frequent parental absences

Romantic or Marital Dysfunction²

• Routine violation of boundaries and privacy
• Lack of emotional and/or physical intimacy
• Constant arguments and criticism of one another
• Gaslighting or denying problems exist
• Abuse or intimate partner violence
• Infidelity

Treatment

Individuals, couples, or families that have dysfunctional relationships can often develop unhealthy coping habits, have undiagnosed mental health conditions, and have trouble developing and maintaining healthy and meaningful relationships with others^1,2.  Counseling, especially with the counselor acting as a mediator can be beneficial for people trying to repair their relationships. At YRPS, we offer individual, couples, and family counseling tailored for each person’s needs.

Sources

1. Very Well Mind. (2021). What is a Dysfunctional Family? Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-a-dysfunctional-family-5194681
2. American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. (2016). Marital Distress. Retrieved from https://aamft.org/Consumer_Updates/Marital_Distress.aspx

Related Articles

• What is Child Trauma? Read more
• Toxic Romantic Love Read more

Sexual Dysfunction

Click here to meet our therapists that treat this condition.

What is Sexual Dysfunction?

Sexual Dysfunction is a broad term that refers to persistent problems with an individual’s libido, sexual desires or behaviours, that distress the individual or their relationships. Sexual Dysfunction can present itself differently depending on the individual, but the most common issues are grouped into the following four categories:

• Desire: characterized by a lack of sexual desire or interest in sex
• Arousal: characterized by an inability to become physically aroused during sexual activity (e.g., difficulty with erections or vaginal lubrication)
• Orgasm: delay, absence, or premature ejaculations or climaxes
• Pain: pain during intercourse or foreplay

Sexual Dysfunction is often a side effect of certain medications, physical conditions, mental health conditions, past sexual trauma, stressors, or marital/relationship problems^1,.

Treatment

Often, it is difficult for individuals struggling with Sexual Dysfunction to seek help, but it is necessary for overcoming obstacles in seeking sexual enjoyment and pleasure. There are several treatment options for Sexual Dysfunction, including medication, individual and couples counselling and mechanical aids.

At YRPS, our counsellors are well-versed in facilitating a safe environment where clients feel comfortable discussing their concerns relating to sex and intimacy and are supported in taking an active role in improving their sexual health.

Sources

1. Cleveland Clinic. (2020). Sexual Dysfunction. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9121-sexual-dysfunction

Further Reading

• All About Sexual Disorders Read more
• Sex Addiction Read more

Other

Click here to view all our therapists.

Treatment for Other conditions

If you are seeking counselling for any other issue that is not listed here, we may be able to help you at YRPS. Contact us now and we will identify if we can assist or else refer you to another professional resource that may help.