Episodes
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The holidays come with a lot of expectations. This episode of Living Fully explores the emotional complexities of the holiday season, highlighting the pressures that can lead to feelings of loneliness, even when surrounded by others. Social worker, Sharona Pilmeister, talks about why the holidays can be challenging for those who are alone, whether due to grief, distance, strained relationships, or personal choice, and offers advice on coping with these emotions. Learn practical ways to create meaningful traditions, build connection, and find moments of joy.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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This episode explores the mental and emotional challenges new parents face as they adjust to life with a newborn. Counsellor Jennifer Grassie talks about how parenthood can impact both moms and dads differently, from balancing work and family roles to handling feelings of responsibility, self-doubt, and overwhelming pressure to "get everything right."
Our conversation covers practical self-care strategies, ways to keep the relationship strong, and tips for supporting mental health during this major life transition. We also talk about managing exhaustion, practicing self-compassion, and asking for help when things feel overwhelming. Expectant or new parents will find advice on preparing for parenthood, including setting realistic expectations, and establishing support systems.
We also hear from Chloe, a Calgary Counselling Centre client who came to counselling when the challenges of parenthood felt overwhelming. She shares how counselling equipped her with tools to navigate her emotions and practice self-compassion as she embraced the demands of motherhood.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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Missing episodes?
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Warning: This episode includes discussions of domestic abuse. Listener discretion is advised.
In this episode, we talk to Stefan De Villiers, Christine Berry, and Kyle Ho – counsellors at Calgary Counselling Centre - about the many forms of abuse beyond the physical, including emotional, financial, digital, and spiritual abuse, and the often-hidden impacts these those who have experienced the abuse. We talk about how to recognize early signs of abuse, such as controlling behaviors, and offer guidance on supporting loved ones safely.
We also cover the complexities of helping people who have used abuse, emphasizing the role of empathy and accountability in their journey toward change. Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provides non-judgmental support through individual and group programs for both victims and those who have used abuse. Our goal is to support growth, rebuild self-esteem, and provide a path forward for those affected by the emotional toll of abuse.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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Depression often makes you want to shut yourself off from the world, but staying connected can be a key part of feeling better. In this episode, Katherine Hurtig sits down with Sarah Rosenfeld, Associate Director of Counselling at Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta, to explore the role social connections play in overcoming depression. They talk about how loved ones can offer support, ways to stay connected when you're feeling down, and why reaching out—even in small ways—can make a big difference. Whether you’re struggling with depression yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode has practical advice on navigating relationships during tough times.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta invite you to take a moment to check in on your mental health by completing a brief, anonymous, and free online quiz at areyoufeelingok.com. The quiz takes only about three minutes to complete and is available in English, French, Spanish, Punjabi, Chinese, and Ukrainian. Check in with how you’re feeling and get help if you need it.
"An Exposure-Wide and Mendelian Randomization Approach to Identifying Modifiable Factors for the Prevention of Depression""Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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On this episode, we’re re-running our conversation from October 3, 2023, with registered social workers, Anna Hemens and Camille Kim about how small actions can have a big impact on our mental health.
When we’re feeling depressed even the most basic, daily activities can feel overwhelming, and the thought of feeling better can seem out of reach. But small, manageable actions, while they may seem insignificant, are the key to helping us feel like ourselves again. Whether it's the simple act of getting out of bed in the morning, or having a shower, taking a walk, or reaching out to a friend, learn how tackling depression is all about building on small successes.
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From October 7–13, Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta encourage you to check in with your mental health through a short, anonymous, and free online quiz at areyoufeelingok.com. Check in with how you’re feeling and get help if you need it. The quiz takes about three minutes and is available in English, French, Spanish, Punjabi, Chinese, and Ukrainian.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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In this episode, we explore the nuances of supporting someone you care about through their mental health journey. Learn how to recognize the signs that a loved one might be struggling, and the best approaches for having open, empathetic conversations about mental health. We explore the importance of active listening and share practical tips on where and how to learn more about mental health.
We also address the delicate balance of encouraging a loved one to seek professional support while setting healthy boundaries for your own well-being.
We discuss how to be prepared in case of a mental health crisis, and the importance of contacting professional or emergency services if necessary. We offer guidance on supporting a loved one through counselling and celebrating their progress.
Gain valuable techniques and practical advice on being a supportive, informed, and compassionate ally in your loved one’s mental health journey.
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When you’re feeling down, anxious, or not yourself, it can be difficult to take action and it may seem impossible to overcome these feelings.
But taking one simple step can move someone that’s struggling in the direction of learning the skills needed to tackle these feelings. From October 7–13, check in with how you’re feeling with our free, confidential, quiz at areyoufeelingok.com. Take the first step toward feeling better.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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Knowing what to do when your child is struggling with their mental health can be overwhelming. This episode breaks down the signs of childhood depression and offers practical advice for parents.
Recognizing Symptoms: Children may not always express their feelings verbally, in this episode we walk you through some of the signs to look for, both physical and behavioural, and how these symptoms differ between young children and teens.
Starting the Conversation: Approaching your child about their mental health can be tricky. We offer age-appropriate strategies to help you talk openly, ask the right questions, and encourage emotional expression.
How to Support Your Child: We share ways parents can offer ongoing support for their child’s mental health.
When to Seek Professional Help: We highlight when it’s time to reach out for professional support and what types of therapy, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), are often recommended for childhood depression. Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide a variety of therapies, including family-based approaches, to help children and their families navigate depression.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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In this episode, we welcome Derek Caperton, research officer at Calgary Counselling Centre, to talk about the role of research and data in mental health counselling. He’ll give his perspective on how studies and data analysis are shaping the future of counselling. Our conversation covers how research improves counselling outcomes, how counsellors apply these insights in practice, and what limitations might exist in the field of counselling research.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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In this episode of Living Fully, we explore the challenges that come with college and university life. From juggling classes, part-time jobs, and a social life to maintaining healthy habits, the demands of post-secondary education can be overwhelming. Psychologist Joel Zimmerman discusses the realities of student life and offers strategies for managing stress and time effectively. We delve into common pressures like financial worries and balancing academics with personal life, while Joel provides actionable tips to help you build resilience and maintain a positive mindset throughout your academic journey.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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Couples counselling isn’t just for when your relationship is struggling. In this episode, social worker, Denis Sushkin, talks about how counselling can help couples in many ways including guiding you and your partner in making important decisions, processing feelings, and navigating the end of a relationship, especially when children are involved. The episode covers such topics as how to get the most out of couples therapy, the role of the counsellor, and breaks down some common misconceptions about counselling for your relationship. Tune in to understand how counselling can help you create the relationship you want and grow both individually and as a couple.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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In this episode, social worker Stephanie Warner, with her expertise in holistic nutrition and eating psychology, delves into the profound connection between our diet and mental health. Discover how the quality of our food impacts our mood and overall well-being, and gain insights into managing mental health issues like anxiety and depression through nutrition. Stephanie shares practical examples of beneficial foods and discusses common misconceptions about food and mental health. She also emphasizes the importance of mindful eating, positive food relationships, and the influence of cultural background. Learn strategies for healthier eating habits, managing cravings, fostering positive relationships with food in children, and much more.
Check out our website for the 4 Key Takeaways About the Connection Between Food and Mental Health.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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Finishing high school. Moving away from home, heading to university. Starting your first “real job.” These are big, exciting changes. You gain more independence but the path to adulthood can also feel overwhelming at times. In this episode, we explore the unique mental health challenges that young adults face as they transition to adulthood. Psychologist Wardah Elahi sheds light on these challenges and offers practical advice for navigating this critical phase of life. From dealing with financial stress and pressure, to gaining autonomy, to building a healthy relationship with technology, this episode covers a range of strategies to smooth the transition into adulthood.
See links to resources on our website.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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Ever notice how after a workout, you feel better, calmer, happier, and more relaxed? That’s because physical activity plays a crucial role in your mental health. Engaging in regular exercise of any form, it doesn’t need to be strenuous, and you don’t need to get an expensive gym membership, releases “feel-good” chemicals like endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, elevating your mood and reducing stress. Additionally, exercise helps you process your emotions and fosters a sense of accomplishment, boosting your self-confidence and promoting mindfulness.
On this episode of Living Fully, our host Katherine Hurtig talks with registered social worker Stephanie Warner about the impact exercise can have on our mental health, and strategies for incorporating it into our daily lives.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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Self-esteem influences how we view ourselves and the world around us, which directly impacts our mental health. Low levels of self-esteem can lead to feelings of inadequacy, worthlessness, and hopelessness, creating a cycle of self-doubt and negative thoughts. In our last episode, we explored the intricacies of self-esteem and its impact on our lives. Today, we’re taking it a step further and hearing from two CCC clients who have lived through its challenges first-hand.
On today’s episode of Living Fully, our host Katherine Hurtig talks with clients Brad and Jessie about their personal stories, what they were going through, and their experiences with counselling and the Building Esteem group program. Katherine also speaks with Annemarie Rued-Fraser, a registered psychologist, to learn the benefits of group counselling and why it can be a beneficial tool for addressing self-esteem concerns.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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Self-esteem is essential for your mental health. The way you think and feel about yourself affects all aspects of your life. It plays a role in your relationships, your work, and how you approach your goals. When you feel good about yourself, you’re more confident in your relationships and have the passion and motivation to work towards your future. But there are many factors that can affect your self-esteem, and if you’re struggling with low self-esteem, it can be hard to know how to improve it.
On this episode of Living Fully, our host Katherine Hurtig talks with Maggie Jiang, a registered psychologist, about the correlation of self-esteem and mental health. They explore the many factors that influence how you feel about yourself, how having good relationships with friends and family can protect your self-esteem, and much more.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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Grief is one of the most human emotions you can experience- it’s inevitable that at some point in our lives, we’ll all experience it. Everyone experiences grief in their own way, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to coping with loss. Knowing how to navigate the complex emotions that come from grief and loss can be overwhelming.
On this episode of Living Fully, our host Katherine Hurtig talks with registered psychologist Amy Ramler to explore the intersection of grief, loss, and mental health. Amy shares how she helps her clients navigate the grieving process, provides guidance on how to approach grief, and ways you can support someone who’s experiencing the loss of a loved one.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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Although perceptions about counselling have evolved, there are still many myths about how counselling works and whether it helps or not. These misconceptions can be barriers for some people who could benefit from counselling.
On this Living Fully episode, social worker Sarah Rosenfeld walks us through some of the main misconceptions about counselling. She explains how counselling works, what to expect from counselling sessions, who can benefit from counselling, when is the best time to go to counselling and the time commitment needed to see changes. In this episode we also cover affordable fees, the stigma of mental health, and more.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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For a lot of people, the idea of practicing self-compassion can be challenging. Many of us were brought up seeking external validation and believing in the words of other people more than our own experiences. This can make it hard to ignore our inner critic and reframe our thoughts to be more compassionate.
On this episode of Living Fully, host Katherine Hurtig talks with registered social worker Anna Hemens about self-compassion and how it affects our mental health. They explore different strategies for cultivating self-compassion, overcoming societal influences, reframing your thoughts, and showing yourself kindness.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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Beyond allowing us to pay the bills, the way we make our living can fill us with purpose and can be a part of our identity. But it’s not uncommon for our work life to bring up feelings of worry and anxiety. The pressures of longer hours, inflexible schedules, and demanding workloads can contribute to increased stress, creating a delicate balance between professional fulfilment and emotional well-being.
On this episode of Living Fully, our Host Katherine Hurtig talks with registered social worker, Kelsey Bradley about the relationship between work and anxiety, unravelling its sources and offering valuable insights on how individuals can navigate these challenges. Their discussion explores various aspects of workplace anxiety, from distinguishing between regular everyday stress and prolonged anxiety, to addressing performance-based anxiety and imposter syndrome.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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When you struggle with anxiety or depression, it can feel incredibly isolating, and learning how to navigate these emotions can seem like an uphill battle. Through the lens of personal experience, our host, Katherine Hurtig, sheds light on the transformative power of counselling.
On this episode of Living Fully, we’re turning the tables. Our host, Katherine Hurtig, shares her story about her journey with depression and anxiety. Before Katherine started working at Calgary Counselling Centre, she was a client and went through one-on-one and group program counselling. Together with registered social worker Sarah Rosenfeld, they delve into the impact of counselling on her emotional well-being. Discover what anxiety and depression looked like for Katherine, how she learned to shift her thinking, the different coping strategies she gained, and how the group therapy program at Calgary Counselling Centre helped her feel less alone. This is a story of personal growth, resilience, and the transformative journey that many of us are in.
"Living Fully" is not a substitute or alternative for professional care or treatment.
Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta provide effective counselling for anyone in Alberta with no wait list and no financial barriers.
For help across Canada and the United States, call 211. If you are outside Canada and the U.S., seek help from your general medical practitioner.
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