Bridge to Wellness Counselling and Consulting

10/20/2024

Please take a moment to read this!!!

For Immediate Release
October 16, 2024
New Brunswick Transgender Health Network Condemns Disinformation Campaign Endangering 2SLGBTQI+ Youth
[Fredericton, NB] – Physicians working in pediatrics, primary care, endocrinology and emergency medicine, social workers, nurses, psychologists, occupational therapists, and community advocates across the traditional and unceded territories of Wolastoqiyik, Mi’kmaq, and Peskotomuhkati Peoples (also known by the colonial name of New Brunswick) are deeply concerned about a recent disinformation campaign targeting vulnerable youth in our communities. Flyers have been distributed to households across New Brunswick spreading false and harmful narratives about gender-affirming healthcare and 2SLGBTQI+ youth in schools. These flyers put vulnerable youth at further risk of harm.
The New Brunswick Transgender Health Network was established in 2011 as a forum for healthcare providers to provide gender-affirming care to patients in New Brunswick. We unequivocally condemn the deliberate spread of disinformation that mischaracterizes the nature of life saving, gender-affirming healthcare. These fear-mongering tactics are not only misleading but dangerous, particularly to transgender youth who are already at higher risk for mental health struggles, including depression, anxiety, and su***de. This targeted campaign undermines the work of healthcare providers, teachers, advocates, and families who strive to support the well-being of gender diverse people across the lifespan.
The claims made in these flyers distort the facts about gender-affirming care. Gender-affirming care is safe. It is evidence-based and endorsed by leading Canadian medical organizations such as the Canadian Pediatric Society, the Canadian Psychological Association, the Canadian Association of Social Workers & Canadian Association for Social Work, the College of Family Physicians of Canada, the Canadian Medical Association, and the Canadian Public Health Association.
Contrary to the claims in these flyers, parents play an essential and active role in their children's healthcare decisions. Gender-affirming care decisions are made in collaboration with families, youth, and healthcare providers in a supportive, individualized process. Disinformation campaigns like these contribute to stigma, bullying, and isolation, worsening the mental health crisis facing many 2SLGBTQI+ youth. Research consistently shows that affirming a young person’s gender reduces the risk of depression and su***de.
We are particularly alarmed that this disinformation campaign calls for the banning of gender-affirming care which is in direct opposition to evidence-based standards of care supported by Canadian associations and licensing bodies for physicians and allied healthcare providers. We know that disinformation attacking gender-affirming care is on the rise and that another province has committed to banning this evidence-based healthcare for youth. We also know that anti-trans legislation significantly increases suicidality in trans youth. In New Brunswick, it is important that we maintain a healthcare system guided by evidence, not ideology. We must protect the sacrosanct relationship between healthcare providers and their patients, ensuring that everyone has access to the care that they need.
We stand firmly in support of our 2SLGBTQI+ youth, their families, their teachers, and the healthcare professionals dedicated to providing them with the affirming care they deserve. Fear-based rhetoric and disinformation only harm our communities. They attempt to divide us, but we are stronger together. We will continue to advocate for safe, evidence-based, and compassionate healthcare for all.
We call on all residents of New Brunswick to critically evaluate the information they receive and to seek out trusted, evidence-based resources regarding 2SLGBTQI+ healthcare. Harmful, politically motivated disinformation has no place in this province. Our focus should always remain on fostering safe, inclusive environments where every young person can thrive.
For accurate information on transgender healthcare and family support, please refer to reputable resources such as:
• Chroma NB - https://chromanb.ca/
• Alter Acadie NB - https://alteracadienb.ca/
• Imprint Youth Association - https://imprintyouth.ca/
• Egale Canada - https://egale.ca/rainbow-action-hub/ -resources
• Weareallies.ca - https://www.weareallies.ca/
• Rainbow Health Ontario https://www.rainbowhealthontario.ca/lgb.../resource-library/
• Trans Care BC - https://www.transcarebc.ca/
Statements by Canadian Medical and Professional Organizations:
Canadian Paediatric Society
https://cps.ca/.../an-affirming-approach-to-caring-for...
• Opposition to bans or restrictions on gender-affirming care for youth:https://cps.ca/.../Gender-affirming_care_in_AB_Public.pdf
Canadian Psychological Association
https://cpa.ca/.../Gender%20Diversity%20Report%20EN...
Canadian Association of Social Workers & Canadian Association for Social Work
https://www.casw-acts.ca/.../joint-statement-affirmation...
College of Family Physicians of Canada
https://www.cfpc.ca/.../cfpc-statement-on-gender...
Canadian Medical Association
https://www.cma.ca/.../cma-strongly-opposes-government...
• Provincial medical associations:
o NLMA - https://nlma.nl.ca/.../nlma-supports-the-ama-call-to.../
o OMA https://www.oma.org/advocacy/oma-policy-positions/
o AMA https://www.albertadoctors.org/.../statement-from-ama...
Canadian Public Health Association
https://cpha.ca/statement-transgender-and-gender-diverse...
New Brunswick Trans Health Network
# # # NB Transgender Health Network

07/11/2024

🎉 Congratulations, Shelby! 🎉

We are thrilled to announce that our amazing MSW student, Shelby, has successfully completed her internship at our practice and has now graduated! 🎓✨

Shelby, your dedication, hard work, and compassion have made a tremendous impact on both our team and the clients you’ve worked with. We are so proud of all you’ve accomplished and excited to see the incredible difference you will continue to make in the world, now with a Master’s in hand 🙌🏻

Join us in celebrating Shelby’s achievement! Drop your congratulatory messages in the comments below. 👇❤️

06/16/2024

💛

Official 2024 Community Voting Awards Platform for Fredericton, NB. Where the community votes for their favourites every year.

04/30/2024

Don't miss this free event happening on Friday! Registration is open to in-person and virtual participants. Learn about Basic Income in New Brunswick and join the conversation.

04/25/2024

Join us at our upcoming Grief Cafe on May 27th @ 4:00pm.💚

Hospice's Grief Cafes offer a safe space to gather and share stories, find comfort, and support one another on your journey through loss.

Grief Cafés are offered free-of-charge, but registration is recommended. Visit https://bit.ly/HospiceFredericton to register.

03/05/2024

🎉 Congratulations, Cassie! 🎉 It was such a pleasure having you complete your MSW practicum here at Bridge to Wellness! We want to take a moment to express our deepest appreciation for all the hard work and dedication you put into your learning experience. Your passion for social work and your commitment to social justice have been truly inspiring. WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU!!
Aaaaand… we are thrilled to announce that Cassie will be staying on with us in a part-time capacity and is now taking new clients!  
• Check the link in our bio to request an appointment with Cassie!

01/13/2024

Hospice Fredericton provides excellence in end-of-life care and bereavement support.

01/10/2024

01/08/2024

Our open house is this coming Saturday!
Join us at 554 Brunswick Street between 1 and 4 PM

12/30/2023

🌟 Embrace a New Year 🌟

This January 1st, embark on a transformative journey towards genuine well-being with “Finding Food Freedom” 🍏🌈, a revolutionary online program crafted by Lynsey, a registered social worker, and Leah, a registered dietitian.

🚀 Unleash the power of self-discovery through 7 enlightening modules designed to revolutionize your relationship with food:

1️⃣ **Food & our Feelings:** Explore the intricate connection between emotions and eating habits, laying the foundation for lasting change.

2️⃣ **Cultivating Self-Compassion:** Nourish your spirit with the essential practice of self-love, creating a positive mindset toward your unique journey.

3️⃣ **Changing Your Beliefs Around Food:** Challenge old narratives and embark on a transformative shift in your perspective towards food.

4️⃣ **Setting Boundaries:** Learn the art of establishing healthy boundaries, empowering you to make mindful choices that align with your well-being.

5️⃣ **Mind-Body Connection:** Deepen your understanding of the profound link between your thoughts and physical well-being, creating harmony from within.

6️⃣ **Finding Food Freedom:** Break free from restrictive diets and discover a sustainable path to a balanced, joyful relationship with food.

7️⃣ **Gentle Nutrition:** Embrace a compassionate approach to nutrition that honors your body and promotes long-lasting changes.

Say goodbye to the traditional New Year’s resolutions focused on weight loss and diets. 🚫✨ This is your chance to embark on a resolution that transcends fads – a commitment to ditching diets for good and embracing a life of food freedom! 🌱💖

💰 **Invest in Yourself:** Joining the “Finding Food Freedom” program comes with a reasonable investment in your well-being. Visit the link 🔗 in our bio for detailed pricing and package information.

📅 Save the date – January 1st! Let the journey to a healthier, happier you begin, guided by Lynsey and Leah! 🎉

12/20/2023

🎉✨ A Round of Applause for Danielle! 🌟👏

Today marks a significant milestone as Danielle completes her counselling practicum at Bridge to Wellness! 🌈 Her dedication, passion, and hard work throughout this journey have truly shone bright. 🌟🤝

Danielle, your commitment to making a positive impact in the field of counselling and your drive to connect with your Indigenous culture to foster holistic healing in others is inspiring! 🌺🌟 Completing your practicum is not just an achievement; it’s a stepping stone towards even greater heights in your academic and professional journey. 🚀💼

As Danielle wraps up this chapter, let’s celebrate her accomplishments and the positive energy she has brought to the Bridge to Wellness team. 🎊♥️Your Masters program at Acadia University is fortunate to have such a dedicated and compassionate student. 📚

Here’s to the next chapter, Danielle! May it be filled with continued success, growth, and fulfillment. 🌷🌟 👏

12/15/2023

"With the Holiday season upon us our days can be extra busy with lots to manage, and that can bring up both joy and pain in our days. Joy and pain can both exist at the same time; if you find this Holiday season you could use some support around grief, we have our Loss Support Group starting a new round of sessions beginning Thursday, January 18th. If this could be helpful to you, we invite you to give us a call or email to connect, and we can provide further details for You. Keep taking care of You this Holiday season."

09/24/2023

Emily’s books are open! She is taking new clients for in-person and virtual appointments, both evening and daytime sessions are available! Message us now to book your first appointment!

06/28/2023

It’s an honour to be nominated ♥️

Official 2023 Community Voting Awards Platform for Fredericton, NB. Where the community votes for their favourites every year.

06/23/2023

This is the smile of a grad student who has just finished their program! 🤩✨We are so proud of our MSW student, Brooke, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to announce that she will be staying on with Bridge to Wellness to provide individual counselling services virtually!! Our practice is lucky to have her on our team and you will be lucky to land her as your counsellor 👌🏼🥰Join us in offering CONGRATULATIONS to Brooke, her STU MSW Class ’23, and all the graduates celebrating right now!!

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06/10/2023

🌈🌟 Celebrating Pride Month at Bridge to Wellness! 🌈🌟

We believe in creating safe and inclusive spaces for everyone, EVERY. SINGLE. DAY! As we celebrate Pride Month, we want to acknowledge and affirm the beautiful diversity and incredible strength of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community 🏳️‍🌈❤️ and we want to take this opportunity to get a little loud about our firm belief in social justice.

We hold space with love every day as helpers, but this is not enough. Action is necessary.

There are many ways that we can each get involved to offer support and to stand alongside 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and community in the push for equality, respect, and inclusion.

We encourage you to find your own way of supporting - maybe you attend Fierte Fredericton Pride Festival July 14-23 Fierté Fredericton Pride, maybe you make a donation to Imprint Youth Association Imprint Youth Association or get involved in Chroma NB, Moncton's River Of Pride / Rivière De Fierté , or Wabanaki Two-Spirit Alliance or maybe you take some time to connect with Pride in Education NB www.pienb.com and take a closer look at the current discussion in our province about Education Policy 713.

Let’s celebrate AND let’s take action! Together, we can create a society where everyone feels seen, heard, valued, and safe. 🤝✊

06/09/2023

We were beyond honoured to speak about working toward decolonizing community crisis response training at this incredible mental health conference hosted by the Mawlugutineg Mental Wellness Team team this week. What a way to kick off National Indigenous History Month ♥️🙏🪶☀️ Thank you for sharing your medicine with us.
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