Men's Mental Health

While mental illness can hit anyone, due to societal norms, men are often more likely to bottle up their feelings and not seek the help they need. As a result, men are at greatest risk of suicide. According to the Black Dog Institute, in 2011, men accounted for over three quarters (76%) of deaths from suicide in Australia. However, an estimated 72% of males don’t seek help for mental disorders.

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Blokes mental health - where to start?

Catch up with a mate and talk – while it may be daunting to open up to your friends about your mental health, this is one of the best ways to seek the support you need. It is also integral in reducing the stigma around male mental health and helps to normalise men sharing their emotions.
Don’t isolate yourself – try to stay social, see your friends and stay connected. This will ensure you are continuously reminded that people love and care for you and may help you to open up to your mates.
Seek professional support – while it is good to speak to your friends, professional psychologists and counsellors are trained in providing support to people with mental health issues; they have the skills and knowledge needed to get you back on the right path to mental wellbeing. If you need help right now, contact a 24-hour hotline such as Beyond Blue or Lifeline. If you would like to speak to one of our friendly psychologists at Tonic Psychology , please reach out and make an appointment through this link.

What to do if you think your mate is struggling?

Ask if they are okay – simply asking if they are okay in a genuine way opens up the dialogue to allow them to share how they are feeling, this really could be a life-saving question.
Organise catch-ups – show them that your care for them and are there to support them by keeping regular contact, catching up when possible and encouraging them to share their feelings.
Normalise talking about your mental health – share your own experience with mental health and provide reassurance that mental illness is normal and nothing to be ashamed of. Creating space for open dialogue and sharing is essential in combatting the negative stigma against male mental health.
Encourage them to seek help – if you think your mate requires professional support, encourage them to seek it. Offering recommendations of services or sharing personal experiences with mental health may be a good form of encouragement.
Ensure you care for your own mental health – caring for a friend with mental illness is often extremely stressful, so it is important to check in with yourself to ensure your mental health is not being compromised, and if you need support in helping your mates, don’t be afraid to seek it out, you are not alone in this.

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Understanding the Power of Psychological Assessments at Tonic Psychology

At Tonic Psychology, we believe in the transformative power of comprehensive psychological assessments to provide clarity, direction, and support.

Navigating the complexities of mental health and personal development can often feel overwhelming. Our range of assessment services is designed to cater to diverse needs, from diagnosing mental health conditions to understanding intellectual and personality traits, guiding career choices, monitoring treatment progress, and identifying learning difficulties. Let's delve into the various assessment services we offer and how they can benefit you.

Diagnostic Assessments: Clarifying Mental Health Conditions

Accurate diagnosis is the cornerstone of effective treatment. At Tonic Psychology, we offer diagnostic assessments for most DSM-V-TR disorders, excluding Autism Spectrum Disorder and certain conditions requiring specialized tools or medical input. Our experienced psychologists conduct thorough evaluations to identify mental health conditions, providing a solid foundation for developing personalized treatment plans. This clarity helps individuals and their families understand the challenges they face and the best approaches to manage them.

Intellectual Ability Testing: Unveiling Cognitive Strengths and Needs

Understanding one's cognitive abilities can be empowering. Our intellectual ability assessments, commonly known as IQ tests, are designed for individuals aged 6 years to 89 years and 11 months. Using renowned tools like the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) and the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS), we assess various aspects of intellectual functioning. These evaluations help in identifying cognitive strengths and areas that may require support, guiding educational and personal development strategies.

Personality Assessments: Gaining Insight into Behavioral Patterns

Personality assessments can provide profound insights into one's behavioral tendencies and emotional functioning. At Tonic Psychology, we utilize the NEO Personality Inventory-Revised (NEO-PI-R) and the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) to offer a comprehensive analysis of personality traits. These assessments help individuals understand their personality structure, which can be crucial for personal growth, relationship dynamics, and therapeutic interventions.

Career Assessments: Finding Your Professional Path

Choosing a career path that aligns with your interests, abilities, and personality is essential for long-term satisfaction and success. Our career assessments, including the Self-Directed Search (SDS), are designed to help you discover careers that match your unique profile. Whether you're a student planning your future or an adult considering a career change, these assessments provide valuable guidance for making informed decisions about your professional journey.

Treatment Outcome Monitoring: Ensuring Effective Progress

Ongoing evaluation of treatment progress is vital for achieving desired outcomes. At Tonic Psychology, we employ various assessment tools in conjunction with patient feedback and observations to monitor treatment effectiveness. This continuous monitoring allows us to adjust treatment plans as needed, ensuring that our clients receive the most effective and responsive care. By tracking progress, we can celebrate successes and address any emerging challenges promptly.

Screening for Learning Difficulties: Supporting Academic Success

Early identification of learning difficulties can make a significant difference in a child's educational experience. We offer screenings for specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia, helping to pinpoint challenges and recommend appropriate interventions. These screenings provide parents and educators with the information needed to support the child's learning journey effectively, fostering a more positive and productive educational experience.

Our Advanced Assessment Tools

To ensure precision and comprehensiveness in our assessments, Tonic Psychology employs a diverse range of advanced tools:

WISC & WAIS: These tools assess intellectual capacity in children and adults, offering insights into cognitive abilities.
Conners/CAARS: These assessments evaluate ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Conduct Disorder (CD), and adaptive functioning.
Q-Interactive Tools: These neurological testing instruments provide flexible and dynamic evaluations.
Novopsych Assessments: A suite of digital tools that offer innovative and efficient ways to evaluate psychological functioning.

At Tonic Psychology, we are committed to providing high-quality, comprehensive assessments tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Our assessment services offer invaluable insights that can guide treatment, personal development, career planning, and educational support. If you're seeking clarity and direction in your mental health or personal journey, contact us today to schedule an assessment. Together, we can unlock the understanding and support you need to thrive.

Navigating Work-Related Mental Health Challenges

In today's fast-paced world, the intricate relationship between mental health and the workplace is increasingly recognized. From the stressors of everyday tasks to the lasting impact of traumatic incidents, our mental well-being is deeply intertwined with our professional lives.

At Tonic Psychology, we are committed to providing specialized support for individuals grappling with mental health conditions arising from work-related physical injury, trauma, and stress. Join us as we delve into how you can find healing, reclaim happiness, and support you to reintegrate into the workplace.

Understanding the Connection

It's not uncommon for work-related challenges to take a toll on our mental health. Whether it's coping with physical injury or chronic pain stemming from workplace incidents, processing trauma experienced on the job, or managing the strain of workplace stress, the impact on our psychological well-being can be profound. This intricate connection necessitates a holistic approach that acknowledges the interplay between physical and mental health.

Tailored Support for Healing

At Tonic Psychology, we believe that healing begins with a personalized approach. Our experienced psychologists employ evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), to address the unique challenges faced by individuals dealing with work-related mental health concerns.

For those contending with physical injury or pain arising from work, our approach integrates psychological support with pain management strategies. By focusing on both the body and mind, we empower individuals to manage their conditions while fostering resilience.

Recovering from Workplace Trauma

Workplace trauma can leave deep emotional scars that impact various facets of our lives. Our trauma-informed therapists at Tonic Psychology provide a safe haven for individuals to process their experiences, develop coping mechanisms, and embark on a journey towards healing. Through compassionate guidance and proven therapeutic techniques, we help individuals rebuild their sense of security and strength.

Equipping for Workplace Resilience

The modern workplace can often be a breeding ground for stress and anxiety. Our tailored treatments are designed to equip individuals with the tools needed to manage workplace stress effectively. By enhancing resilience, teaching stress reduction techniques, and promoting a balanced work-life equilibrium, we empower individuals to not just survive, but thrive in their professional environments.

Returning to the Workplace

At Tonic Psychology, our mission goes beyond symptom management. We are dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their vitality. Our holistic approach nurtures personal health and happiness, supporting you on your return to work journey to the workplace with renewed energy and empowerment.

How Sports Psychology Can Help You Reach Your Peak Performance

Whether you're an elite athlete or just someone who enjoys playing sports, sports psychology with Tonic Psychology can help you reach your peak performance. The specialist sports psychologists here at Tonic Psychology use a variety of techniques to help athletes improve their mental skills, such as focus, concentration, goal-setting, and coping with pressure.

There are many benefits to working with a sports psychologist. Some of the most common benefits include:

Improved focus and concentration: Sports psychologists can help athletes learn how to focus on the present moment and block out distractions. This can be especially helpful in high-pressure situations.
Increased confidence: Sports psychologists can help athletes develop a positive mental attitude and believe in their own abilities. This can lead to improved performance.
Better goal-setting: Sports psychologists can help athletes set realistic and achievable goals. This can provide them with a sense of purpose and direction.
Enhanced coping skills: Sports psychologists can help athletes develop coping mechanisms for dealing with stress and pressure. This can help them stay calm and perform at their best under pressure.

How Does Sports Psychology Work?

Sports psychology is a relatively new field, but it has been growing in popularity in recent years. There are a number of different techniques that sports psychologists use, but some of the most common include:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy: This type of therapy helps athletes identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors that are holding them back.
Imagery training: This technique helps athletes visualize themselves performing successfully. This can help them build confidence and prepare for competition.
Hypnosis: Hypnosis can be used to help athletes relax and focus. It can also be used to help them change negative thoughts and behaviors.
Biofeedback: This technique uses electronic devices to measure physiological changes, such as heart rate and muscle tension. This information can then be used to help athletes learn how to control their bodies and improve their performance.

Who Can Benefit from Sports Psychology?

Sports psychology can benefit athletes of all ages and skill levels. However, it is especially beneficial for athletes who are struggling with performance anxiety, lack of confidence, or other mental blocks. Sports psychology can also be helpful for athletes who are recovering from an injury or who are trying to improve their overall mental well-being.

How to Find a Sports Psychologist

If you are interested in working with a sports psychologist, there are a few things you can do to find one. First, you can ask your doctor or coach for a referral. You can also search online for sports psychologists in your area. When you are choosing a sports psychologist, be sure to find one who is qualified and experienced. Here at Tonic Psychology we have qualified, specialist professionals in sports psychology to support you.

Sports psychology is a valuable tool that can help athletes reach their peak performance. If you are an athlete who is struggling with mental blocks or who wants to improve your overall mental well-being, working with a sports psychologist can be a great way to achieve your goals.

To learn more about how sports psychology at Tonic Psychology can help you reach your peak performance, contact us today.

Why Have An Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?

As an employer, you want your employees to be happy, healthy, and productive. One way to achieve this goal is by offering an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through Tonic Psychology. An EAP provides employees with confidential access to professional counselling, support, and resources that can help them cope with personal and work-related issues. Here are some of the benefits of implementing an EAP with Tonic Psychology in your workplace.

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Improved Employee Health and Wellbeing

An EAP can help your employees improve their mental health and overall wellbeing. Employees may face challenges in their personal lives or workplace, such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, and trauma. The confidential counselling services provided through an EAP can help employees address these issues and get the support they need to cope.

Reduced Absenteeism and Increased Productivity

Employees who are struggling with personal or work-related issues may have trouble focusing on their work, leading to decreased productivity and increased absenteeism. By providing employees with access to an EAP, employers can help employees manage their personal and work-related issues and improve their productivity at work.

At Tonic Psychology, our EAP services can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your employees and organisation. Our registered psychologists provide high-quality counselling services, as well as a range of other support services, including conflict resolution, trauma counselling, critical incident debriefing, and more.

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Improved Employee Satisfaction and Retention

Employees who feel supported by their employer are more likely to be satisfied with their job and remain with the company long-term. An EAP shows employees that their employer cares about their wellbeing and is willing to invest in their health and happiness. This can lead to improved employee satisfaction and retention rates.

Demonstrates Corporate Social Responsibility

Implementing an EAP in your workplace demonstrates your company's commitment to corporate social responsibility. By investing in the health and wellbeing of your employees, you are showing that your company values the people who make your organisation successful.

Overall, an EAP with Tonic Psychology can benefit both employers and employees. By providing employees with access to confidential counselling services and other support resources, employers can improve employee health and wellbeing, reduce absenteeism, increase productivity, improve employee satisfaction and retention rates, and demonstrate their commitment to corporate social responsibility. If you are interested in implementing an EAP with Tonic Psychology, contact us to learn more about our tailored EAP services.

Mental Health and Christmas

Christmas is a time of joy and celebration. It’s an opportunity to spend time with loved ones, give thanks for what we have, and remember what matters most. On the other hand, Christmas can also bring up some painful memories for people who have been through difficult times in their lives or with their families.

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If you are a part of a broken family or are estranged from your family, Christmas time can be a serious trigger. While the advertising and “festive cheer” that seems to propagate the general public during the month of December can’t be avoided, focusing our time and energy on making a new meaning for Christmas, one that is aligning with our values can often be helpful. Here are some tips on how to do that:

Write a big list of everything you like about Christmas. It could be the food, the presents, the colours, the carols etc. Once this is done, brainstorm ways in which you could incorporate them into your Christmas. Here are some examples:
1. I love the food! But being estranged means I can’t have that big feast. Solution: Invite a few friends over close to Christmas and ask everyone to bring a dish.
2. I love the carols. Solution: Visit the local council Christmas carols or have a night in and watch on tv! Make a favourite drink, have your favourite snacks, wear comfy clothes and you’re all set!
Donate to a charity or volunteer. There are many organisations that would appreciate it!
If you have a friend who invites you to their home for Christmas, consider taking them up on their offer. Whilst it can feel uncomfortable it does mean that you have people present around you should you feel vulnerable or need support.
Stay in an Airbnb over Christmas. While there, do something that keeps you away from the commercialism of Christmas such as going for a hike/bushwalk (be sure to inform someone of your route), going to a beach, visiting antique shops etc.

If you know someone who is a part of a broken family or is estranged from their family, here are some tips on how to approach the topic of Christmas with them:

Be conscious of how you talk about your Christmas plans. Whilst it is completely understandable to feel excited about your plans, it can be helpful to empathise when we’re expressing our excitement by putting ourselves in the other’s shoes. It can be disheartening to those who don’t have plans with family to hear friends boast about their Christmas plans.
Ask them how they are feeling as Christmas approaches. That’s right folks, talking about our feelings is not taboo! It is likely the person being asked will greatly appreciate the time taken to check-in. When they answer, be sure to listen! It’s not so much about providing solutions, but really understanding where they are coming from.
Send them a Christmas card in the mail. This is typically a well-received gesture that isn’t too full on. It’s a way to say you’re thinking of them during this time.
Organise a Christmas catchup. This can involve something as simple as going for coffee. This gives the person a chance to still celebrate what Christmas means to them, with a person they feel comfortable with.

Remember, not everyone spends Christmas with their family. It may be hard for a few days, but you can get through it and are not alone.

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Living Life Despite Chronic Pain

Pain can be frightening, exhausting and all-consuming – especially when it continues for an extended period of time. Although often invisible, chronic pain is a prevalent problem throughout Australia.

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You may have it yourself, and you will certainly know someone who does, with around one in three people suffering from chronic pain, a debilitating condition that can affect so many aspects of a person’s life.

Chronic pain can result from a massive range of conditions and injuries. It is generally normal to feel extended pain after an injury or as a result of a health condition. However, if pain persists for more than 12 weeks, it is considered chronic, and a pain management plan may be required to help manage that pain.

Chronic Pain Management with Tonic Psychology

A psychologist can help to develop a chronic pain management plan that details specific ways to minimise flareups, manage pain killers and identify ways to maximise positive moods, restore good sleep, and retrain the brain if it has become over sensitised to pain signals.

A Few Things To Remember If You Experience Chronic Pain;

It’s not necessary to be ‘pain-free’ to have an enjoyable and worthwhile existence. You may not be able to embark upon exactly the same activities you enjoyed before the onset of your chronic pain, but your life can still be full of beauty, meaning and purpose. We can’t put our lives on hold waiting for the day some physical cure comes.
Understand that accepting the pain does not mean you are giving in to it. Do not let your pain define you.
You cannot simply will away the pain using a ‘mind over matter’ philosophy. This can leave you feeling worn out and disappointed. Chronic pain is exhausting in itself, without trying to convince yourself that it doesn’t exist.
Focus on prioritising daily activities and breaking them into smaller, achievable tasks. This can show you that you are still capable of achieving things, but it is important to know your limits and be kind to yourself in the process.

At Tonic Psychology, our trained team of counsellors, psychologists and therapists can help our clients by developing effective ways for them to understand and minimise their pain, to reduce anxiety, to develop a management plan and support them in the creation of healthy coping mechanisms that allow them to continue with their life.

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Child Psychology - A Guide For Parents

Are you wondering whether your child could benefit from the support of a children’s psychologist? At Tonic Psychology we’re strong advocates for affordable mental health care for all – including the youngest amongst us.

Children’s Psychology FAQ

What Can A Child Psychologist Help With?

Our Tonic Psychology team of child psychologists know that there’s many reasons families may reach out and seek support. Children’s therapists specialise in understanding growth and development and can help support your family though difficult behavioural problems, emotional regulation concerns, and family conflicts.

Many families also choose to visit a psychologist because they feel their child or teenager could benefit from chatting to someone outside the family – sometimes, young people may feel more comfortable talking to a professional about difficult issues.

How Do I Know If My Child Should See A Psychologist?

If your child is experiencing issues at home or at school that impact on their ability to learn, create relationships, or engage with family members, the support of a psychologist can help address any underlying issues and concerns.

If you notice sudden or gradual changes in your child’s behaviour, such as difficulty sleeping, eating, or reluctance to go to school, this is another sign that the support of a psychologist might benefit your family.

Additionally, many parents seek the support of a family psychologist during difficult life events, such as the loss of family member, separation, or divorce. Children may have trouble processing these situations and chatting to a therapist can help them understand and heal.

What Does A Children’s Psychologist Do?

Depending on the age of the child, appointments with a Tonic Psychology child psychologist will involve a combination of structured play, observation, and conversation.

Additionally, we know that family members are an integral part of the process, so we may also arrange meetings with you to discuss your child’s needs. We’ll support you as you continue to work with your child at home.

How Can I Book In With A Child Psychologist Near Me?

At Tonic Psychology, we offer confidential, compassionate counselling and psychology for young people and their families. If you’d like to make an appointment with our friendly team, please contact us here. You can also call our friendly psychology team or browse our website for more information.

Understanding the NDIS Psychology Services at Tonic Psychology

Our team of experienced psychologists, including those based in Essendon, specialises in disability counselling and other essential psychological services.

In Australia, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a crucial support system for individuals living with disabilities, enabling them to access the necessary services to improve their quality of life. Among the many services covered under the NDIS, psychology services are fundamental in helping participants manage mental health challenges and enhance their well-being. At Tonic Psychology, we are committed to providing comprehensive and personalized psychological support to NDIS participants. Our team of experienced psychologists, including those based in Essendon, specializes in disability counselling and other essential psychological services.

The Role of Psychologists in the NDIS

Psychologists play a vital role in the NDIS framework. They offer a range of services that help individuals cope with the psychological impact of their disabilities. These services include:

Assessment and Diagnosis:

Psychologists conduct thorough assessments to understand the mental health needs of NDIS participants. This may involve diagnosing mental health conditions that can impact daily functioning.

Individual Therapy

Tailored one-on-one sessions with a psychologist can address specific mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress, which are common among individuals with disabilities.

Behavioral Interventions

Developing and implementing strategies to manage challenging behaviors is a key service provided by psychologists. These interventions aim to improve the participant's ability to function independently.

Support for Families and Carers

Psychologists also offer counselling and support to the families and carers of NDIS participants, helping them manage the challenges associated with caring for a loved one with a disability.

Why Choose Tonic Psychology for NDIS Services?

At Tonic Psychology, we understand the unique challenges faced by NDIS participants. Our team is dedicated to providing empathetic and effective psychological support. Here are some reasons why our services stand out:

Experienced and Qualified Psychologists

Our psychologists are highly trained and experienced in working with individuals with disabilities. They are skilled in various therapeutic approaches, ensuring that each participant receives the most appropriate and effective care.

Personalized Care

We recognize that every individual’s needs are unique. Our psychologists work closely with NDIS participants to develop personalized care plans that address their specific goals and challenges. This tailored approach ensures that each participant receives the support they need to thrive.

Convenient Location in Essendon

For those searching for a "psychologist Essendon," Tonic Psychology offers convenient access to high-quality psychological services. Our Essendon location is easily accessible, making it simple for participants to attend their appointments and receive ongoing support.

Comprehensive Disability Counselling

Our disability counselling services are designed to help participants navigate the complexities of living with a disability. This includes managing the emotional and psychological impact, developing coping strategies, and enhancing overall well-being.

Collaborative Approach

We believe in a collaborative approach to care. Our psychologists work closely with other healthcare providers, NDIS coordinators, and support networks to ensure that participants receive holistic and integrated care.

The Impact of Quality Psychological Support

Access to quality psychological support can have a profound impact on the lives of NDIS participants. Here are some of the benefits:

Improved Mental Health: Regular sessions with a psychologist can help manage symptoms of mental health conditions, leading to improved emotional well-being.

Enhanced Independence: Behavioral interventions and coping strategies can empower participants to live more independently and confidently.

Better Relationships: Support for families and carers helps improve relationships, reducing stress and enhancing the overall support system for the participant.

Increased Quality of Life: Ultimately, effective psychological support leads to a higher quality of life, enabling participants to engage more fully in their communities and pursue their goals.

At Tonic Psychology, we are proud to offer comprehensive NDIS psychology services that make a real difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Our experienced psychologists, convenient Essendon location, and personalized approach to care ensure that each participant receives the support they need to achieve their full potential. Whether you are an NDIS participant looking for a psychologist, or a carer seeking support, Tonic Psychology is here to help you navigate your journey to better mental health and well-being.

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Parenting Support: Find the Help You Need

Parenting is a challenging but rewarding experience. However, it can also be stressful, especially when you are facing difficult challenges. If you are feeling overwhelmed as a parent, counselling can help.

What is Parents Counselling?

Parent counselling is a type of therapy that helps parents deal with the challenges of parenting. Counsellors can help parents to:

Understand their own parenting style and how it affects their child.
Develop coping mechanisms for dealing with stress and anxiety.
Learn how to communicate effectively with their child.
Resolve conflict with their child.
Build a stronger relationship with their child.

Why Should Parents Seek Counselling?

There are many reasons why parents might seek counselling. Some of the most common reasons include:

Stress and anxiety: Parenting can be a stressful experience, and this can lead to anxiety and other mental health problems. Counselling can help parents to manage their stress and anxiety and improve their mental health.
Depression: Depression is another common problem that can affect parents. Counselling can help parents to understand their depression and develop coping mechanisms to manage it.
Conflict with child: Conflict with children is a normal part of parenting, but it can be difficult to resolve. Counselling can help parents to communicate effectively with their child and resolve conflict in a healthy way.
Parenting style: Parents may want to seek counselling to understand their own parenting style and how it affects their child. Counselling can help parents to develop a parenting style that is effective and supportive.
Postpartum depression: Postpartum depression is a type of depression that can affect women after childbirth. Counselling can help women to manage their postpartum depression and improve their mental health.

How Can Tonic Psychology Help?

Tonic Psychology offers counselling for parents in Melbourne and Sydney. Our experienced counsellors are trained to help parents with a wide range of parenting issues. We offer a confidential and supportive environment where parents can talk about their concerns and get the help they need.

What to Expect

When you first come to Tonic Psychology, we will meet with you to discuss your concerns and goals for counselling. We will then develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.

Our treatment plans typically involve a combination of individual and family counselling. We may also recommend other resources, such as support groups or educational programs.

Our Approach to Parents Counselling and Psychology

We believe that every parent is unique, and we tailor our approach to each parent's individual needs. We also believe that the family is an important part of the healing process, and we involve the family in our treatment plans whenever possible.

Our Commitment

We are committed to helping parents thrive. We believe that every parent deserves to feel supported and empowered. We will work with you to help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be the best parent you can be.