Virtual Counselling
Need to talk? Connect virtually for free with an Addictions Counsellor.
What Is Virtual Counselling?
Through Crossing Bridges, if you’re 12-24 years old, you can access free, confidential, one-to-one virtual counselling sessions with a professional and qualified counsellor in a way that works best for you – phone, online with video, online with voice only.
During virtual counselling sessions, you can ask questions or discuss your concerns about substance use, behavioural addictions, or the impacts of substance use on mental health.
How Do I Get Started?
Your first meeting will be a 30-minute session with one of our counsellors. The purpose of this meeting is to:
- Describe what you’re experiencing, what concerns you have, and how we can help
- Share some basic information about yourself with the counsellor
- Learn what kind of supports and resources are available based on your needs
- Decide if this is the right support for you
Virtual counselling is completely voluntary. If you decide you want to continue with counselling, the counsellor will talk to you about scheduling another session.
What if I’m Not Ready to Talk to a Counsellor?
If you’re not ready to connect with an Addictions Counsellor, there are other ways you can help yourself.
Access Mobile Apps
If you’re interested in apps to help you address an addiction or substance use or to help you stay safe, check out the following apps:
Breaking Free – The Breaking Free Companion app is designed to be used with Breaking Free Online, a free, evidence-based recovery support program for alcohol and substance use for Ontarians aged 16 years and older. If you choose to access Breaking Free Online or the app, you can use the access code cmhatv21.
Find it on the App Store or Google Play
Be Safe – Created by mindyourmind, this app supports decision-making around seeking help in a crisis, including creating a safety plan, finding local addiction and mental health resources, and understanding options based on your needs.
Find it on the App Store or Google Play
Saying When – Created by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, use this app to track your drinking if you’re interested in quitting drinking or just cutting down.
Find it on the App Store or Google Play
I Am Sober – Use this app to help you track your sobriety, build new daily habits, and learn form others with similar experiences.
Find it on the App Store or Google Play
Attend the Youth Exploring Change Group
About the Group
Youth Exploring Change is an informational (non-sharing) group offered by CMHA Thames Valley Addiction and Mental Health Services where you can learn more about substance use. Through this group, you can explore decisions about your current substance use, ways to reduce risk, and explore if you’re ready for change. You will also learn about options available to you (e.g. services, programs, and resources) when you are ready to make a change.
How Do I Access It?
- Ask your Crossing Bridges Addictions Counsellor about the group
- Call the intake line at 519-673-3242 ext. 222
- Email intake.addiction@cmhatv.ca
Practice Self Care
Take time to do things that help you feel better. Below are some suggestions for self-care practices you can do every day.
- Move Your Body – Try going for a walk, stretching, or following an exercise video online.
- Practice Gratitude – Take a few minutes each day to make a list of things you’re thankful for or try keeping a gratitude journal.
- Stay Mindful – Practice being aware of physical sensations, thoughts, and feelings you’re experiencing as a way to stay present in the moment, or try a mindfulness meditation.
- Take Deep Breaths – If you’re feeling stressed, try stopping for a moment to take 5-10 slow, deep breaths.
- Message a Friend – Try messaging, calling, or talking with a friend or family member about how you’re feeling.
- Get Creative – Express your thoughts and feelings through journaling, writing poetry, painting, drawing, photography, dancing, or playing music.