O.W.L Counselling & Wellness

11/18/2025

National Grief and Bereavement Day reminds us that grief is not something to “get over”—it’s something we learn to carry.

Whether your loss is recent or years old, your experience is valid. Grief can be heavy, unpredictable, and deeply personal.

You don’t have to move through it alone. Therapy offers a space to speak your story, honour your loss, and navigate the emotions that come with it—at your own pace.

Today, and every day, may you feel supported, seen, and reminded that your grief deserves compassion.

If you're struggling, reaching out is an act of courage and care.

O.W.L. Counselling & Wellness
Serving North Bay and Muskoka, virtually throughout Ontario.
705-477-4069
info@owlcounsellingservices.ca

11/18/2025

Movember is more than moustaches — it’s a reminder that men’s physical and mental health matters.

So many men carry their stress, worry, and grief in silence. They push through, show up, and keep going, often without a space to talk about what’s really happening beneath the surface.

This month, we honour the quiet battles.
We acknowledge the pressure to “be strong.”
And we reinforce this truth:
Opening up is strength. Asking for support is strength. Taking care of yourself is strength.

If you’re struggling, you don’t have to face it alone. Therapy offers a confidential, non-judgmental space to unpack what you’ve been holding.

Let’s keep the conversation going—not just in November, but all year long.

11/16/2025

At O.W.L. Counselling & Wellness, we recognize National Addiction Awareness Week.

This is an important time to shine a light on the impacts of substance misuse—and the solutions that make change possible.

It’s a time to learn, talk about prevention and recovery, and support harm reduction across Canada.

Change starts with understanding and compassion.
2025 THEME: Anchoring Hope

11/13/2025

When the seasons shift, so can our mood.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is more than just the “winter blues.” It’s a type of depression that follows seasonal patterns — often showing up as low energy, sadness, irritability, or trouble getting motivated.

You’re not alone, and support is available. Small steps can make a real difference:

Try getting outside daily — even brief exposure to natural light and fresh air can help balance mood-regulating hormones.

- Try a light therapy lamp — use it in the morning to simulate sunlight benefits.
- Move your body — gentle exercise boosts serotonin and energy.
- Stay connected — isolation makes symptoms worse; plan small social moments.
- Keep a routine — steady sleep, balanced meals, and activity can support emotional stability. Routines offer some predictability which can reduce stress and help your body’s internal rhythms support emotional stability.

If your mood feels heavier than usual this season, reach out! There are effective treatments and you don’t have to manage it alone.

11/11/2025

11/11/2025

Gratitude today - and always.
Honouring those who served and those still carrying the unseen wounds of war.
Today, we remember.

________________________________
O.W.L. Counselling & Wellness
Serving North Bay and Muskoka
705-477-4069
info@owlcounsellingservices.ca

11/06/2025

Lateral Violence: Understanding It and Healing Together | Aaron Sinclair

Lateral Violence - Though the term may sound alarming, lateral violence is often subtle, hidden behind words, gestures, or small acts that chip away at trust and belonging. Understanding it, recognizing it, and learning how to address it is essential for our collective well-being.

10/31/2025

Happy Halloween!

Wishing everybody a safe and happy evening.

~ O.W.L. Counselling & Wellness

🎃

10/29/2025

“Sometimes you just need the courage to keep going, to let go, and to find joy in a story you never imagined you’d walk.” ~ Rachel Marie Martin

10/28/2025

“Instead of thinking about solving your whole life. Just think about adding additional good things. One at a time. Just let your pile of good things grow.” ~ -Rainbow Rowell

10/25/2025

Read me:

Invisible Disabilities Awareness Week October 19-25, 2025 is relatively new (Est. 2024) and we are so thankful for it! Here is why...

Invisible disabilities can fall under several categories, including:

1. Neurodivergent / Cognitive:
- ADHD
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
- Dyslexia or learning disorders
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Memory or processing disorders

2. Chronic Health Conditions:
- Chronic pain or fatigue (e.g., fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome)
- Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, multiple sclerosis)
- Diabetes
- Epilepsy
- Migraine disorders

3. Mental Health:
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- OCD

4. Sensory / Communication:
- Hearing loss or auditory processing disorder
- Visual impairments not obvious to others
- Speech or language processing disorders

Because these disabilities are not visible, people may be judged as “lazy,” “unreliable,” or “overreacting.” They may face barriers to accessibility or understanding at work, school, or in healthcare—and even within their own homes, from family or social circles.

When someone is misjudged or treated poorly because their struggles aren’t seen, it can foster low self-esteem, shame, and isolation, making it even harder to seek support or self-advocate. Recognizing and validating invisible disabilities helps create space for empathy, inclusion, and genuine connection.

Awareness Matters, and we are here to support.