First Step Men's Therapy

08/18/2025

⚾️ Team Time at the Blue Jays! ⚾️

This weekend we took some time away from the clinic to enjoy a Blue Jays game together—and what a day it was! 🙌

At First Step Men’s Therapy, our core values include fun and teamwork. We believe it’s important to create more than just a workplace—we’re building a community where our therapists can connect, unwind, and support one another both inside and outside the therapy room. 💙

Events like this remind us that while the work we do is meaningful and serious, laughter, connection, and shared experiences are just as essential in keeping our team strong.

Here’s to many more moments of fun and connection together! 🎉

08/12/2025

🛋 New in the office: the Feelings Wheel Pillow

It’s soft. It’s colourful.

And it’s here to help you figure out what the heck you’re actually feeling.

A lot of guys grow up without the tools (or even the words) to talk about emotions. The feelings wheel is like a cheat sheet — turning “I’m fine” into “Actually… I’m anxious and a little overwhelmed.”

We’re adding one of these pillows to every First Step Men’s Therapy office as part of our commitment to making it easier (and less awkward) for men to get curious about what’s going on inside.

Because sometimes mental health starts with naming what you feel. 💙 🩵

07/14/2025

🎀 Ribbon Cutting in Oshawa! 🎀

We’re proud to officially open our Oshawa office with a special ribbon cutting ceremony! ✂️

A big thank you to Mayor Dan Carter, members of City Council, and the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce for joining us to celebrate this exciting milestone. 🙌

Team members Nick Daze, Nick Dookheran, and our Clinic Operations Manager Alexandra were on hand to welcome our guests and showcase the space.

This event marks more than just a new office — it’s a reflection of our deepening commitment to the Durham Region and the incredible men and families in this community.

We’re excited for what’s ahead. Oshawa, we’re here for you. 💙

06/15/2025

Happy Father’s Day 💙

Today, we honour the fathers, father figures, and all the men who’ve shaped lives with love, strength, and presence.

But we also want to acknowledge that this day can stir up complex feelings for many—whether due to loss, absence, estrangement, or longing.

To those celebrating, we see you.
To those grieving, we hold space for you.
To those healing, we’re with you.
To those still becoming, your journey matters.

Fatherhood is more than a role—it’s a legacy of impact, protection, vulnerability, and love. However today looks for you, may you find meaning, connection, and peace.

03/06/2025

We’re proud to announce the opening of our newest men’s mental health clinic right here in Oshawa.

Our goal is simple — to create a safe, supportive space where men in Durham Region can take that important first step toward better mental health. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, relationships, or just feeling stuck, we’re here to help you rewrite the next chapter.

This clinic is built for the men of Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, Bowmanville, and beyond — because no one should have to face their struggles alone.

Now accepting new clients.

02/03/2025

We’re expanding! Durham Region here we come 🎉

On March 3rd, we’re officially opening our Oshawa - Durham Region office, bringing specialized in-person men’s mental health support closer to men in the region.

At First Step Men’s Therapy, we are committed to helping men navigate life’s challenges—whether it’s stress, relationships, trauma, or personal growth. Our team is here to provide judgment-free, professional support for men in the Durham Region and beyond.

Your mental health matters. Your first step starts here.

📍 Opening March 3rd in Oshawa! Stay tuned for more details and information on our website/social media

01/08/2025

New office alert 🚨

We are happy to announce the opening of a second office space in our Centretown location. Just off Bank St., our second office is a warm, inviting space for men to learn, heal, and grow.

Shout out to Ottawa’s for the awesome office sign made from wood. It is an amazing addition to the space.

Reach out to learn more about our in-person and online options 🎉

11/24/2024

Hi, I’m Adam! It’s been awhile since I introduced myself.

When I founded First Step Men’s Therapy in 2021, it was deeply personal. As someone who has faced the pressures and challenges of modern life, I know how isolating it can feel when you’re struggling. I’ve walked through seasons where expectations weighed heavily, emotions were suppressed, and the idea of asking for help seemed like a sign of weakness. It was through my own journey of vulnerability and growth that I discovered the profound impact of therapy and community support—sparking my commitment to creating a space where men could begin their own healing journeys.

At First Step Men’s Therapy, our mission is clear: to help men take that vital first step toward living healthier, more fulfilling lives. We believe that every man deserves the opportunity to process his struggles, rediscover his strength, and connect with his authentic self. Whether it’s navigating mental health challenges, rebuilding after betrayal, managing relationships, or simply finding balance in a chaotic world, we provide a safe and supportive environment where men are heard, valued, and empowered.

Why is this work so important?

Because the statistics are alarming, but the stories are even more profound. Men are often told to “tough it out” or “keep going,” but this culture of silence has left too many feeling alone, misunderstood, and unseen. At First Step Men’s Therapy, we’re breaking the stigma by creating a movement where men can talk openly, heal deeply, and build the lives they deserve.

This isn’t just a business—it’s a mission rooted in compassion, courage, and community. We’re here to remind every man that taking the first step isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s the ultimate act of strength. Together, we can redefine what it means to be strong, one conversation, one breakthrough, and one step at a time.

Let’s build a future where men thrive—not in silence, but in connection. Thank you for trusting us to be part of your journey.

Adam Gelinas
Founder, First Step Men’s Therapy

11/19/2024

Today, we celebrate men—their contributions, their strengths, and their resilience. But we also acknowledge the struggles many men face in silence.

At First Step Men’s Therapy, we’re committed to breaking the stigma around men’s mental health—not just today, but every single day of the year.

Our mission is to provide a safe space where men can feel heard, supported, and empowered to take their first steps toward healing and growth. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or past traumas, we’re here to help you navigate life’s toughest moments.

This International Men’s Day, let’s remind every man:

📢 You are not alone. Help is here. Taking the first step is a sign of strength.

Together, we can redefine what it means to be strong.

11/02/2024

10/25/2024

Did you miss our latest email newsletter? Every month, we send out our latest news, reviews, and tips for men’s mental health.

Subscribe to our newsletter and never miss an issue! Link in our bio!

07/22/2024

📣 Join Us for a Powerful Webinar on Healing from Betrayal Trauma!

Are you struggling with the pain of betrayal?

Our upcoming webinar, “From Pain to Peace: Healing from Betrayal Trauma,” is here to guide you through how to start the process of healing from a betrayal wound.

🗓️ Date: Monday, August 12th
⏰ Time: 12PM - 1PM EST
📍 Online (No cameras required, Q&A format)

✨ Speakers:
- Mirela Kovacevic Smith, RSW, CSAT-Candidate
- Sara Stalker, RP, CSAT-Candidate
- Adam Gelinas, RP, Associate S*x Addiction Therapist (ASAT)

Topics We’ll Cover:
1. Understanding Betrayal Trauma:
- Definition and impact on mental and emotional health.
- Common reactions and symptoms experienced by those affected.

2. Steps to Healing and Recovery:
- Effective therapeutic approaches and techniques.
- Building resilience and finding support systems.

3. Rebuilding Trust and Relationships:
- Strategies for restoring trust in personal relationships.
- Communication skills and setting healthy boundaries.

4. Self-Care and Personal Growth:
- Importance of self-care in the healing process.
- Tools for personal growth and maintaining long-term wellness.

🆓 Free Online Registration: Link in bio or on our homepage at: http://www.firststepmenstherapy.com

Don’t miss this chance to take the first step towards healing and peace. Register today!