Photo of April Vass, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
April Vass
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
As a well-versed clinician in OCD and a CTSA-Certified clinician in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD; I am here to support you in regaining your life.
Does it feel like intrusive thoughts are overtaking your world? Are these thoughts sometimes strange and unusual to your character, or do they go against your values? Are you engaging in mental or physical activities to relieve the feelings of distress or discomfort you may be experiencing? Maybe these activities are completed to avoid what feels like an irresistible urge. Are you looking to regain your day-to-day life and learn how to live well with OCD? Or maybe you are looking to address life impacting behaviours such as; skin picking, hair pulling, or tics.
As a well-versed clinician in OCD and a CTSA-Certified clinician in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD; I am here to support you in regaining your life.
Does it feel like intrusive thoughts are overtaking your world? Are these thoughts sometimes strange and unusual to your character, or do they go against your values? Are you engaging in mental or physical activities to relieve the feelings of distress or discomfort you may be experiencing? Maybe these activities are completed to avoid what feels like an irresistible urge. Are you looking to regain your day-to-day life and learn how to live well with OCD? Or maybe you are looking to address life impacting behaviours such as; skin picking, hair pulling, or tics.
(249) 494-5895 View (249) 494-5895
Photo of Teresa D Harris, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Teresa D Harris
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
I offer personalized, confidential support in a comfortable, non-judgmental setting using Prolonged Exposure Therapy for PTSD, ERP therapy for OCD, EMDR Therapy for Trauma, and Expressive Arts for Grief and Loss.
Now also registered in and accepting clients in New Brunswick! Over the past several years, I have had the privilege of helping individuals and families find effective solutions that are unique to the individual and best address their needs. My goal is to help my clients find healthy ways to cope with, learn from, and even grow from the challenges they experience in life. Most satisfying for me is when clients begin to view themselves and their circumstances from a place of strength and empowerment, ready to make necessary changes leading to unprecedented growth and success.
I offer personalized, confidential support in a comfortable, non-judgmental setting using Prolonged Exposure Therapy for PTSD, ERP therapy for OCD, EMDR Therapy for Trauma, and Expressive Arts for Grief and Loss.
Now also registered in and accepting clients in New Brunswick! Over the past several years, I have had the privilege of helping individuals and families find effective solutions that are unique to the individual and best address their needs. My goal is to help my clients find healthy ways to cope with, learn from, and even grow from the challenges they experience in life. Most satisfying for me is when clients begin to view themselves and their circumstances from a place of strength and empowerment, ready to make necessary changes leading to unprecedented growth and success.
(249) 496-0016 View (249) 496-0016
Photo of Shaina Charles, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Shaina Charles
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
Here's the good news: OCD recovery is possible! As a clinician trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (Ex/RP) therapy (the gold-standard treatment for OCD), I will collaborate with you and your family to support you.
Perhaps it started with one or two jarring and disturbing thoughts or images or an unshakable feeling that something wasn't right. Desperate to get rid of this unsettling experience, you performed a behaviour or mental act that you just felt compelled to complete, and at first, it seemed to help. Now you are caught in a vicious cycle where you feel the overwhelming urge to engage in certain thoughts or behaviours over and over in search of relief. You're stuck, and you desperately want to get out. If you can relate, you are not alone. Obsessive-compulsive disorder is an experience that affects 1-2% of the population.
Here's the good news: OCD recovery is possible! As a clinician trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (Ex/RP) therapy (the gold-standard treatment for OCD), I will collaborate with you and your family to support you.
Perhaps it started with one or two jarring and disturbing thoughts or images or an unshakable feeling that something wasn't right. Desperate to get rid of this unsettling experience, you performed a behaviour or mental act that you just felt compelled to complete, and at first, it seemed to help. Now you are caught in a vicious cycle where you feel the overwhelming urge to engage in certain thoughts or behaviours over and over in search of relief. You're stuck, and you desperately want to get out. If you can relate, you are not alone. Obsessive-compulsive disorder is an experience that affects 1-2% of the population.
View
Photo of Merrisa Little, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Merrisa Little
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW, CEO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
We understand OCD, and we can help you understand it too.
You're noticing changes in your child's behaviour; it doesn't make sense. They're acting strange, out of their character. Why does my child seem afraid; anxious? It seems like you've tried everything to help them feel better, but nothing seems to work and you're confused, fighting the feeling of helplessness. You find yourself walking on eggshells for fear of making the behaviour worse, because you don't understand what's happening.
We understand OCD, and we can help you understand it too.
You're noticing changes in your child's behaviour; it doesn't make sense. They're acting strange, out of their character. Why does my child seem afraid; anxious? It seems like you've tried everything to help them feel better, but nothing seems to work and you're confused, fighting the feeling of helplessness. You find yourself walking on eggshells for fear of making the behaviour worse, because you don't understand what's happening.
(705) 243-9078 View (705) 243-9078
Photo of Crystal Pacheco, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Crystal Pacheco
Registered Social Worker, HBA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
Crystal is highly trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in multiple areas such as: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, Health Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, OCD, and Phobias.
Crystal is a registered Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience providing individual counselling to children, youth, and adults. Crystal also provides psychotherapy to couples and enjoys working alongside with counselling families. Crystal has a Bachelor of Arts at University of Waterloo and a Master’s in Social Work from Lakehead University.
Crystal is highly trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in multiple areas such as: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, Health Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, OCD, and Phobias.
Crystal is a registered Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience providing individual counselling to children, youth, and adults. Crystal also provides psychotherapy to couples and enjoys working alongside with counselling families. Crystal has a Bachelor of Arts at University of Waterloo and a Master’s in Social Work from Lakehead University.
(289) 763-9898 View (289) 763-9898
Photo of Dr. Petra Gyles, Psychologist in Barrie, ON
Dr. Petra Gyles
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
Dr. Gyles is a Clinical & School Psychologist focusing in child & adolescent populations providing comprehensive assessments, therapy, & consultation. Dr. Gyles provides therapy for children and teens targeting depression, anxiety, academic anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, trauma, school struggles, and social issues. She uses evidence-based practices and takes a cognitive-behavioural therapy approach, with aspects of positive psychology, mindfulness, emotion focused, and narrative therapy approaches incorporated into treatment.
Dr. Gyles is a Clinical & School Psychologist focusing in child & adolescent populations providing comprehensive assessments, therapy, & consultation. Dr. Gyles provides therapy for children and teens targeting depression, anxiety, academic anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, trauma, school struggles, and social issues. She uses evidence-based practices and takes a cognitive-behavioural therapy approach, with aspects of positive psychology, mindfulness, emotion focused, and narrative therapy approaches incorporated into treatment.
(438) 300-9215 View (438) 300-9215
Photo of Ashlee Lortie, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
Ashlee Lortie
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
NO-WAIT list! ADHD/ASD, Stress/Anxiety, OCD, Perinatal Issues! Perhaps you're struggling to get things done and are getting overwhelmed and procrastinate as a result. Your ADHD, anxiety, stress or depression just seem to get in the way of how you want to be living your life. It's hard to get through the days and you're starting to get down on yourself. You want to learn to overcome your mental health challenges and start feeling like yourself again. That's where therapy can help! I will help you find your strengths to overcome your hurdles while also helping you make meaningful changes and gain new perspectives in life.
NO-WAIT list! ADHD/ASD, Stress/Anxiety, OCD, Perinatal Issues! Perhaps you're struggling to get things done and are getting overwhelmed and procrastinate as a result. Your ADHD, anxiety, stress or depression just seem to get in the way of how you want to be living your life. It's hard to get through the days and you're starting to get down on yourself. You want to learn to overcome your mental health challenges and start feeling like yourself again. That's where therapy can help! I will help you find your strengths to overcome your hurdles while also helping you make meaningful changes and gain new perspectives in life.
(249) 559-2261 View (249) 559-2261
Photo of Collective Care Counselling, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Collective Care Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
Are you navigating questions about your sexual orientation or gender identity? Are your experiencing relationship distress? Are you healing from the loss of a loved one? At Collective Care Counselling, we specialize in the following areas: trauma, grief and loss, spirituality, gender identity, transitioning, LGBTQIA2s+, perinatal mental health, OCD, BDD, neurodiversity (ADHD, autism, etc.), concussions, and many other topics. All of our therapists work from a trauma-informed, strengths-based, anti-oppressive and intersectional framework.
Are you navigating questions about your sexual orientation or gender identity? Are your experiencing relationship distress? Are you healing from the loss of a loved one? At Collective Care Counselling, we specialize in the following areas: trauma, grief and loss, spirituality, gender identity, transitioning, LGBTQIA2s+, perinatal mental health, OCD, BDD, neurodiversity (ADHD, autism, etc.), concussions, and many other topics. All of our therapists work from a trauma-informed, strengths-based, anti-oppressive and intersectional framework.
(705) 896-6936 View (705) 896-6936
Photo of Kelsey Donald, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
Kelsey Donald
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, (Qual)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Hi, I'm Kelsey Donald a registered psychotherapist (qualifying) focused on youth and adolescents at MindFit, a leading psychology clinic (or as prefer to say, "mental health gym"). Just like a "typical" gym, MindFit was designed to be accessible and inviting to anyone looking to improve their emotional well-being. From day one, I will do everything I can ensure to ensure you and, most importantly, your child feels heard, supported and valued. My apporach is structured (with weekly handouts), evidence-based, and designed to help your child develop practical and effective skills and strategies to not only cope, but thrive.
Hi, I'm Kelsey Donald a registered psychotherapist (qualifying) focused on youth and adolescents at MindFit, a leading psychology clinic (or as prefer to say, "mental health gym"). Just like a "typical" gym, MindFit was designed to be accessible and inviting to anyone looking to improve their emotional well-being. From day one, I will do everything I can ensure to ensure you and, most importantly, your child feels heard, supported and valued. My apporach is structured (with weekly handouts), evidence-based, and designed to help your child develop practical and effective skills and strategies to not only cope, but thrive.
(437) 372-5075 View (437) 372-5075
Photo of Stephanie Sharp, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Barrie, ON
Stephanie Sharp
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
Stephanie is dedicated to the field of mental, emotional, and physical well being and understands the complexity of how these compartmentalized states all impact one another. As an individual who sought counseling for personal matters and experienced genuine insight and healing on various occasions regarding diverse matters, she is confident in its ability to help others. As a result, Stephanie has made the career choice to give back to therapy what it has provided to her by serving others. Stephanie can see clients who are experiencing Anxiety and Depression symptoms including but not limited to OCD and Bi-Polar.
Stephanie is dedicated to the field of mental, emotional, and physical well being and understands the complexity of how these compartmentalized states all impact one another. As an individual who sought counseling for personal matters and experienced genuine insight and healing on various occasions regarding diverse matters, she is confident in its ability to help others. As a result, Stephanie has made the career choice to give back to therapy what it has provided to her by serving others. Stephanie can see clients who are experiencing Anxiety and Depression symptoms including but not limited to OCD and Bi-Polar.
(289) 301-1123 View (289) 301-1123
Photo of Frost Psychological Services, Psychologist in Barrie, ON
Frost Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
I am currently offering assessments for mood disorders (depression, bipolar, anger related), anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma/PTSD, and personality disorders.
My goal is to help individuals learn more about themselves through clinical psychological assessments. Assessments may help you gain some insight into diagnoses and underlying reasons why you are having difficulties. They also provide you with valuable recommendations and supports to help you thrive in your day-to-day life.
I am currently offering assessments for mood disorders (depression, bipolar, anger related), anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma/PTSD, and personality disorders.
My goal is to help individuals learn more about themselves through clinical psychological assessments. Assessments may help you gain some insight into diagnoses and underlying reasons why you are having difficulties. They also provide you with valuable recommendations and supports to help you thrive in your day-to-day life.
(226) 839-0005 View (226) 839-0005
Photo of Inner Growth Counselling & Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
Inner Growth Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
NO-WAIT lists, LOW-COST options, IN-PERSON appts- Perhaps you're feeling down or anxious, or maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you want to lead. Let's face it- life can be hard and sometimes we feel like things will never change or that we are stuck. At Inner Growth Counselling & Psychotherapy, we will help you overcome whatever mental health or personal challenges you are faced with. Our team specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem and self-identity, relationship issues, life transitions, BPD, managing difficult emotions, and trauma.
NO-WAIT lists, LOW-COST options, IN-PERSON appts- Perhaps you're feeling down or anxious, or maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you want to lead. Let's face it- life can be hard and sometimes we feel like things will never change or that we are stuck. At Inner Growth Counselling & Psychotherapy, we will help you overcome whatever mental health or personal challenges you are faced with. Our team specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem and self-identity, relationship issues, life transitions, BPD, managing difficult emotions, and trauma.
(249) 523-4809 View (249) 523-4809
Photo of Madison Farr, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Barrie, ON
Madison Farr
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA H, MACP
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
Are you in search of a safe space where you can openly share your life's struggles? I'm here to guide you on a journey towards self-improvement using a holistic approach. My goal is to offer you a warm & supportive space where you can explore your innermost thoughts & emotions without fear of judgment. I understand that taking the step to seek therapy can feel daunting, but it can also be incredibly freeing. From the moment we connect, my priority is to build a relationship of trust & understanding. As a compassionate therapist, I'm dedicated to creating an environment that revolves around your unique experiences.
Are you in search of a safe space where you can openly share your life's struggles? I'm here to guide you on a journey towards self-improvement using a holistic approach. My goal is to offer you a warm & supportive space where you can explore your innermost thoughts & emotions without fear of judgment. I understand that taking the step to seek therapy can feel daunting, but it can also be incredibly freeing. From the moment we connect, my priority is to build a relationship of trust & understanding. As a compassionate therapist, I'm dedicated to creating an environment that revolves around your unique experiences.
(249) 444-3537 View (249) 444-3537
Photo of Vault Mental Health, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Vault Mental Health
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
At VMH we can connect you a therapist suited best for you in under 24H's... It takes courage to initiate therapy but investing in your well-being is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself. Whether you are seeking to learn strategies to cope with life's ups and downs, tools to manage challenging emotions, or support with difficult life events, it is our privilege to be here for you. Our diversely skilled group of Registered Psychotherapists and Registered Social Workers are here to help you get results. At Vault Mental Health we will create a tailor-made treatment plan unique to you and your situation.
At VMH we can connect you a therapist suited best for you in under 24H's... It takes courage to initiate therapy but investing in your well-being is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself. Whether you are seeking to learn strategies to cope with life's ups and downs, tools to manage challenging emotions, or support with difficult life events, it is our privilege to be here for you. Our diversely skilled group of Registered Psychotherapists and Registered Social Workers are here to help you get results. At Vault Mental Health we will create a tailor-made treatment plan unique to you and your situation.
(249) 492-9384 View (249) 492-9384
Photo of Lisa Davis, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Lisa Davis
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW patients for phone & video sessions. Asking for support is a courageous first step in managing your mental health & wellness. It is easy to get stuck in unhelpful thought patterns that do not serve us, but we have more control over our thoughts & feelings than it may seem. I can help you take charge of this & your behaviours to live a more fulfilled & happy life. I will work collaboratively with you to set achievable goals that support empowerment, capacity building & resiliency. I believe in the importance of a strong therapeutic alliance where you feel safe to share so we can have authentic & real conversations.
Accepting NEW patients for phone & video sessions. Asking for support is a courageous first step in managing your mental health & wellness. It is easy to get stuck in unhelpful thought patterns that do not serve us, but we have more control over our thoughts & feelings than it may seem. I can help you take charge of this & your behaviours to live a more fulfilled & happy life. I will work collaboratively with you to set achievable goals that support empowerment, capacity building & resiliency. I believe in the importance of a strong therapeutic alliance where you feel safe to share so we can have authentic & real conversations.
(249) 492-9447 View (249) 492-9447
Photo of Dianne Maing, Psychologist in Barrie, ON
Dianne Maing
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
Have you experienced a recent loss, whether it be through a death of a loved one or a job change? Have you witnessed or directly suffered a traumatic event? Perhaps you are feeling overly anxious or sad, and can't concentrate or sleep? Or maybe your child or teenager has become withdrawn, is having difficulty maintaining his or her grades, and is more irritable or angry than typical? If these are among your concerns, it may be timely to seek assistance.
Have you experienced a recent loss, whether it be through a death of a loved one or a job change? Have you witnessed or directly suffered a traumatic event? Perhaps you are feeling overly anxious or sad, and can't concentrate or sleep? Or maybe your child or teenager has become withdrawn, is having difficulty maintaining his or her grades, and is more irritable or angry than typical? If these are among your concerns, it may be timely to seek assistance.
(249) 503-3598 View (249) 503-3598
Photo of Courtney Marie Firetto, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Courtney Marie Firetto
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
Hello and thank you for stopping by! My name is Courtney. I am an energetic and motivated professional who is passionate about improving mental health and well-being. I have worked in a number of settings, including community mental health agencies, hospitals, and independent consulting, and have served a range of client populations. These experiences have taught me so much, namely that serving others gives my life meaning! As a clinician, I come with my lived experiences of mental health challenges, including anxiety, and low mood. I know how important it is to have a therapist you can connect with. I hope to be this for you!
Hello and thank you for stopping by! My name is Courtney. I am an energetic and motivated professional who is passionate about improving mental health and well-being. I have worked in a number of settings, including community mental health agencies, hospitals, and independent consulting, and have served a range of client populations. These experiences have taught me so much, namely that serving others gives my life meaning! As a clinician, I come with my lived experiences of mental health challenges, including anxiety, and low mood. I know how important it is to have a therapist you can connect with. I hope to be this for you!
(249) 202-2256 View (249) 202-2256
Photo of Cheri Szotyori, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
Cheri Szotyori
Registered Psychotherapist, CYC, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
Wonderful! You have taken the first step in improving your mental wellness! I am a Registered Psychotherapist with over 25 years working with people to improve their Mental Health and increase their Mental Wellness. I've developed a reputation for my ability to create a trusting and compassionate environment which will help ensure your therapeutic success. My approach has a strong foundation in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. As well, I integrate a number of different therapeutic approaches into my practice and seek to fit the approach to the individual needs, preferences, and strengths of each person.
Wonderful! You have taken the first step in improving your mental wellness! I am a Registered Psychotherapist with over 25 years working with people to improve their Mental Health and increase their Mental Wellness. I've developed a reputation for my ability to create a trusting and compassionate environment which will help ensure your therapeutic success. My approach has a strong foundation in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. As well, I integrate a number of different therapeutic approaches into my practice and seek to fit the approach to the individual needs, preferences, and strengths of each person.
(705) 300-0783 View (705) 300-0783
Photo of Kendra Wagner, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
Kendra Wagner
Registered Psychotherapist, HonsBSc, GradDip, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
My priority is to provide a safe, warm and non-judgmental healing space that allows exploration beyond symptoms. My work is trauma-informed and attachment-based. I have a passion for supporting my child, youth, teen, and adult clients in having "aha moments" as they learn about themselves, discover connections between their experiences and the brains instinctive response to protect, and then use this understanding to uncover how it impacts their present day.
My priority is to provide a safe, warm and non-judgmental healing space that allows exploration beyond symptoms. My work is trauma-informed and attachment-based. I have a passion for supporting my child, youth, teen, and adult clients in having "aha moments" as they learn about themselves, discover connections between their experiences and the brains instinctive response to protect, and then use this understanding to uncover how it impacts their present day.
(249) 487-0895 View (249) 487-0895
Photo of Dr Jacqueline Rynard & Associates, Psychologist in Barrie, ON
Dr Jacqueline Rynard & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
Productive psychotherapy occurs within the context of a positive therapeutic relationship between the therapist and client, so often times the first one or two sessions are focused on a consultation to review the client’s concerns and for us to see if we are a good fit to work together. During this time, I will make recommendations for a treatment plan and will ask for the client’s feedback.
Productive psychotherapy occurs within the context of a positive therapeutic relationship between the therapist and client, so often times the first one or two sessions are focused on a consultation to review the client’s concerns and for us to see if we are a good fit to work together. During this time, I will make recommendations for a treatment plan and will ask for the client’s feedback.
(249) 490-5434 View (249) 490-5434

See more therapy options for Barrie

Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Counsellors

How long does OCD treatment take?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often treated on a weekly or twice-weekly schedule, depending on symptom severity and the client’s preferences. Some clients may start to see a noticeable improvement in symptoms in as little as six weeks, but it’s also possible, especially in more severe cases, for treatment to take several months to a year before significant progress is made.

What happens if OCD is not treated?

Some people with OCD, especially those with mild symptoms, may find that they are able to adapt reasonably well to life with the condition, even if their symptoms never resolve completely. However, many people, particularly those whose symptoms are severe at the outset, find that their obsessions and compulsions grow more intrusive with time, making it harder to maintain relationships, hold down a job, or navigate the world successfully.

Are there medications for OCD?

Medication can be used to treat OCD. The class of drugs most often prescribed are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, which include fluvoxamine, fluoxetine, and sertraline, among others. In cases of treatment-resistant OCD, other classes of medication, such as tricyclic antidepressants or atypical antipsychotics, may be prescribed. Medication is frequently used in conjunction with therapy.

Can OCD come back after treatment?

Yes. Major life transitions, periods of stress, or other factors can cause symptoms to return or, if they were never fully eradicated, to ramp back up in intensity. For some, these relapses are brief and do not require additional treatment; identifying specific triggers and practicing the skills learned in therapy can help speed their course. For others, returning to therapy for a brief period can help address the underlying stress and strengthen coping mechanisms.