Look around and you’ll see mental health issues, addictions and trauma that are so widespread, it’s impossible to ignore this public health crisis any longer.
The added pressures and stress related to the pandemic, job loss, global unrest, racism, and the uncertainty about the future, directly impact each and every one of us. And then there are the added pressures created by social media.
Tiffany Caicco is a Master’s level Registered Psychotherapist and owner of The Soul Compass who believes it’s time to end the stigma around therapy which suggests, there must be something seriously wrong with you. “As humans, it’s normal for us to experience periods where we are overwhelmed or are struggling a bit. After all, we’re only human," Tiffany said.
“I’m seeing more anxiety in young children and teens, insomnia across all age groups, and an increase in calls related to the physical and mental impact of chronic stress such as headaches, digestive issues and chronic pain," she added.
"Maybe you should talk to someone,” Tiffany suggests. Talk therapy can be a way to help people maintain their wellbeing.
Tiffany is an evidence-based practitioner who uses proven techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). Her specialty includes art therapy, play therapy and movement and meditation, including breathwork and mindfulness techniques.
Her child clients love the sandtray therapy, art and puppets. “These creative tools give them an opportunity to share their experiences in ways that talk therapy could never achieve,” Tiffany said.
Tiffany also uses music as therapy. She encourages her clients to bring in their instrument; however, in her studio office, you’ll find drums, guitars, ukulele, chimes, singing bows, and drumsticks. “I once had a client who attended eight sessions before asking if they could try the guitar. We made a song together about their experience.”
Music and art add an entirely new dimension to the therapeutic offering.
In addition to being a registered psychotherapist, Tiffany is also a professional Art Therapist and is working toward becoming a certified Play Therapist.
“Having these additional credentials has provided me with the expertise to use creative modalities in an effective and safe manner with my clients,” she said. “I love working with all age groups; however, with the art and play expertise, I am able to provide an incredibly effective therapeutic treatment for children and teens.”
Her adult clients love how she integrates art psychotherapy, mindfulness, movement, and cognitive behavioural therapies. “I don’t use all of these all the time, but it’s nice to have an arsenal of techniques to offer," Tiffany said.
Chronic pain is a common issue for which she uses gentle movement techniques, meditation, and cognitive reframing to help clients manage the pain. Sometimes, she will incorporate art therapy to help adults connect with different parts of themselves. “For instance, chronic pain sometimes indicates a deeper issue. Art therapy is a great tool to explore deep-rooted issues," Tiffany explained.
Tiffany provides individual and group sessions at her studio office at 616 Queen St East. Currently, she is offering two unique groups.
BETH (Be Empowered Trauma Healing) is an art psychotherapy/expressive arts group to empower women who’ve experienced trauma, loss, or grief.
STAR (Share Together and Remember) is a developmentally-appropriate expressive arts-based program for children who’ve experienced loss, grief, and trauma.
For more information on these groups or on offerings provided by The Soul Compass please email: [email protected].