VOX Mental Health

VOX Mental Health VOX Mental Health is a person-centred, trauma informed counselling practice that is committed to
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New Year’s resolutions often fail; not because of a lack of discipline, but because they are misaligned with how the bra...
01/05/2026

New Year’s resolutions often fail; not because of a lack of discipline, but because they are misaligned with how the brain supports motivation, habit formation, and behavioural change.

Research shows that *lasting change* is more likely when goals are small, reinforced, contextually supported, and meaningfully integrated into daily life. Large, outcome-focused resolutions place sustained demands on executive functioning, which is vulnerable to stress, fatigue, and competing demands.

At VOX Mental Health, therapy focuses on understanding how change happens: at the level of the nervous system, behaviour, identity, and environment, rather than relying on willpower alone.

Change does not require reinvention. It requires alignment, readiness, and support.





We’re thrilled to welcome Desiree Frenette, Registered Social Worker & Psychotherapist, to the VOX Mental Health team.De...
01/03/2026

We’re thrilled to welcome Desiree Frenette, Registered Social Worker & Psychotherapist, to the VOX Mental Health team.

Desiree is a holistic, integrative therapist with over 12 years of experience supporting children, youth, and adults navigating complex trauma, anxiety, mood-related concerns, and substance use challenges.

Her background spans private practice, community mental health, crisis response, residential programs, and school-based settings, allowing her to work with individuals across diverse systems and life stages.

Her trauma-focused approach integrates somatic, mindfulness-based, harm-reduction, attachment, and parts-informed practices. Desiree brings advanced training in TF-CBT, polyvagal theory, ACT, somatic therapy, addiction and dual diagnosis, neuro-affirming care, and integrative trauma treatment. Her work is grounded in anti-oppressive values and a deep respect for lived experience.

Desiree is known for her warm, relatable, and grounded presence. She creates spaces where people can move at their own pace, reconnect with their bodies, and gently unpack the impact of trauma and systemic harm. Her own lived experience informs her practice, strengthening her capacity for empathy, collaboration, and attuned care.

At the heart of Desiree’s work is the belief that healing happens through compassionate connection; where voice, choice, and agency are honoured. We’re grateful to have her as part of the VOX Team!!

New Year, Intentionally BecomingAs we enter 2026, we move away from the “New Year, New You” narrative and focus on inten...
01/01/2026

New Year, Intentionally Becoming

As we enter 2026, we move away from the “New Year, New You” narrative and focus on intentional growth. Research shows that sustainable change is supported by self-compassion, reflective awareness, and gradual behavioral engagement.

This year, consider:
Compassion: fostering empathy for self and others to support emotional regulation
Understanding: increasing insight into personal patterns and needs
Patience: allowing change to occur gradually
Learning: adopting adaptive strategies without self-criticism
Peace: cultivating acceptance and integration of experience

At VOX Mental Health, we help clients strengthen their voice, articulate their story, and exercise agency. Growth is iterative, and intentional engagement in these processes supports improved mental health outcomes. We are cheering for you as you enter a new year, continuing on your journey of becoming.

Today, while many are preparing to gather at home, countless frontline workers are preparing to head out on shift... Wor...
12/24/2025

Today, while many are preparing to gather at home, countless frontline workers are preparing to head out on shift... Working throughout Christmas Eve and Christmas Day... Responding to emergencies, caring for the sick, supporting the vulnerable, and holding space for others in moments of crisis.

To the paramedics, nurses, PSWs, police officers, essential workers, healthcare & community workers working today: thank you.

We recognize your sacrifice, and the sacrifice of your family members. We are truly grateful for all that you do.



At VOX Mental Health, we often hear clients say they feel pressure to enjoy the holidays, yet many find this season emot...
12/23/2025

At VOX Mental Health, we often hear clients say they feel pressure to enjoy the holidays, yet many find this season emotionally challenging. Family dynamics, grief, changing traditions, financial stress, and burnout can all intensify during this time. If the holidays feel harder than expected, you’re not alone, and there are ways to support your mental well-being through it.

If the holidays feel heavy, you’re not alone, and support is available.
At VOX Mental Health, we support children, youth, adults, and families through the emotional complexities of the season. Therapy can help you navigate what comes up, during the holidays and beyond.

The holidays can amplify relapse risk for people in recovery. Environmental cues, disrupted routines, stress, family dyn...
12/22/2025

The holidays can amplify relapse risk for people in recovery. Environmental cues, disrupted routines, stress, family dynamics, and social pressure all combine to make sobriety more challenging.

Providing non-alcoholic options, maintaining structure, and staying connected to supports are evidence-based strategies that reduce risk and promote resilience.

At VOX Mental Health, we support individuals and families through the holiday season and beyond with trauma-informed, addiction-aware care.

Family traditions are deeply tied to identity, connection, and emotional safety. When they change or dissolve, many peop...
12/20/2025

Family traditions are deeply tied to identity, connection, and emotional safety. When they change or dissolve, many people experience grief, often without realizing that’s what it is.

Understanding the different types of grief that can arise during the holidays can help normalize emotional responses and reduce self-judgment.

If this time of year feels harder than expected, it may be a sign of loss. Support is available, you don't have to navigate it alone.




While the world celebrates, many are quietly carrying stress, grief, anxiety, or depression. The holidays can magnify wh...
12/17/2025

While the world celebrates, many are quietly carrying stress, grief, anxiety, or depression. The holidays can magnify what we’re already holding (expectations, family dynamics, loss, loneliness), and for many it can feel heavier rather than joyful. Mental health challenges don’t pause for the season, and access to support is important all year long.

VOX Mental Health remains open during most of the holidays because we know that care is not seasonal. Whether this time of year feels overwhelming, isolating, or simply different than you hoped, you deserve a space to be heard and supported. You do not have to navigate this season alone.

Just get along.” “Don’t ruin the day.” “It’s fine, don’t talk about it.”Sound familiar? The holidays can amplify what th...
12/12/2025

Just get along.” “Don’t ruin the day.” “It’s fine, don’t talk about it.”
Sound familiar?

The holidays can amplify what therapists call dishonest harmony: pretending everything is fine to keep the peace. Beneath the surface, unresolved emotions accumulate, trust erodes, and mental health can suffer.

It doesn’t have to be this way. Honest conflict, authentic connection, and self-preservation are gifts you can give yourself. Set boundaries, speak your truth, and protect your well-being.

If you are needing support in navigating complex family dynamics this holiday season, we are here for you.

Parental anger at youth sports events is common and often reflects a combination of high emotional investment, perceived...
12/09/2025

Parental anger at youth sports events is common and often reflects a combination of high emotional investment, perceived unfairness, financial and time pressures, and the intensity of the environment.

Understanding these triggers can help parents, children, and bystanders respond in ways that support safety, well-being, and a positive experience for everyone involved.

At VOX Mental Health, we support parents and families in developing emotion regulation skills, understanding triggers, and fostering healthier interactions in high-stimulation environments like youth sports.


Parenting a child with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) can be one of the most exhausting,  and often misunderstood, ...
12/05/2025

Parenting a child with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) can be one of the most exhausting, and often misunderstood, experiences. Many parents describe feeling burned out, overwhelmed by constant arguing, defiance, emotional intensity, and a level of daily conflict that never seems to pause.

This is not because you’re doing something wrong.
It’s because ODD is hard.

ODD isn’t about “bad behaviour.” It’s a pattern rooted in emotional regulation difficulties, frustration tolerance challenges, and developmental factors… and parents often carry the weight quietly.

Therapy can help.
At VOX Mental Health, our team supports families by:
- Teaching evidence-based strategies
- Reducing conflict cycles
- Strengthening communication
- Helping parents manage burnout
- Supporting children in building emotional regulation skills

You don't have to navigate this alone. Support is available and peace in your home is possible.

If you’re noticing constant conflict, increased irritability, or burnout in your parenting journey, reach out. We’re here to help you and your child find steadier ground.

Book with a VOX therapist specializing in ODD today.

Feeling exhausted even though you are still managing to “do it all”? You might be experiencing invisible burnout.Invisib...
12/04/2025

Feeling exhausted even though you are still managing to “do it all”? You might be experiencing invisible burnout.

Invisible burnout happens when women carry mental, emotional, and societal pressures that quietly drain energy; from managing schedules, emotions, and household tasks, to meeting professional expectations. It can leave you feeling fatigued, irritable, disconnected, and trapped in perfectionism.

Signs include: chronic fatigue, brain fog, irritability, loss of enjoyment, physical symptoms, and emotional disconnection.

The good news? Therapy can help. At VOX Mental Health Barrie, our therapists specialize in supporting women to:
- Identify hidden stressors
- Set healthy boundaries
- Manage perfectionism and expectations
- Improve coping skills and emotional regulation

You don’t have to navigate this alone. Reclaim your energy, restore balance, and prevent burnout from taking over.

Address

15 Collier
Barrie, ON
L4M1G5

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 9pm
Tuesday 9am - 9pm
Wednesday 9am - 9pm
Thursday 9am - 9pm
Friday 9am - 9pm
Saturday 9am - 5pm
Sunday 9am - 5pm

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