evolve Psychotherapy and Consulting Group Inc.

11/08/2025

We’ve been told that “tough love” builds character — that hardship is what makes children strong.

But what it often builds instead is armour.

When love comes with fear or shame, a child’s nervous system learns to protect rather than trust. Stress hormones rise, safety fades, and love starts to feel like something that has to be earned.

That isn’t resilience — it’s survival.

True strength grows from safety, not fear.
From being guided, not shamed.
From being understood, not controlled.

Because love was never meant to harden us — it was meant to hold us steady while we learn to stand on our own. ❤️

Quote Credit: ❣️

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11/08/2025

When a child’s behaviour makes us want to pull back, that’s usually the moment they need us most.

It’s easy to stay close when they’re calm, kind, and cooperative. It’s harder when their pain shows up as defiance, disrespect, or distance.

But beneath every outburst, every slammed door, every “leave me alone,” is a nervous system crying out for safety.

Connection doesn’t excuse the behaviour — it explains it. And once we understand, we can guide with empathy instead of control.

Because a child who feels safe doesn’t need to fight for power.
A child who feels seen doesn’t have to shout to be heard.
And a child who feels connected learns that love can hold space for even their hardest moments.

When we meet their chaos with calm, we become the anchor they can return to. That’s not permissiveness — that’s leadership. It’s what teaches them that love doesn’t disappear when they’re at their worst.

So the next time their behaviour pushes you away, pause before you step back. Take a breath, soften your tone, and reach in — not to fix, but to connect.

Because the behaviour is just the language.
The real message is always the same: I need you. ❤️


Quote Credit: Kelly Bartlett❣️

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11/05/2025

Healing looks different for everyone.

Some people feel most comfortable opening up from home — curled up with a cup of tea and their laptop.
Others need the structure and quiet of an in-person space that’s just for them.

At evolve Psychotherapy & Consulting Group Inc., our focus is simple —to make therapy accessible, safe, and deeply human — wherever you are.

Whether you’re reconnecting, recovering, or starting for the first time — there’s space for you here.

There’s no “right” way to do therapy — just the way that feels right for you.

Not sure which type of therapy works best for you?
👉 Check out this quick comparison of virtual and in-person sessions

Virtual Therapy
Therapy that meets you where you are.
Whether you’re at home, at work, or somewhere in between —virtual sessions make therapy simple and accessible.

Benefits of Virtual Sessions
✔ No commute or parking stress
✔ Access to care anywhere in Ontario
✔ Consistent sessions — even with busy schedules
✔ Comfort of your own space, often making it easier to open up
✔ Many clients say they feel more relaxed and safe online — and that helps the work go deeper.

In-Person Therapy
Therapy in a space designed for deep connection.
Step into a calm, private room created to help you slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself.

Benefits of In-Person Sessions
✔ More attunement — body language, energy, presence
✔ A contained, confidential space
✔ Ideal for somatic or trauma-focused approaches
✔ The act of arriving in person reinforces routine, accountability, and self-care.

Blended Care
You don’t have to choose just one.
Many clients mix virtual and in-person sessions as life changes.
It’s therapy that meets your life where it’s at.

Not sure which one will work for you but want to get started? Our compassionate, dedicated team of therapists will help you find the right fit for you.

We are now accepting new clients for both virtual and in-person sessions. Reach out. We are here for you.

📞 519-639-4698
📧 therapy@evolvegroupinc.net
🌐 www.evolvegroupinc.net

10/26/2025

10/24/2025

Boundaries aren’t about distance — they’re about clarity.

They tell others, “Here’s how to love me without losing yourself.”

In therapy, I see how often people mistake boundaries for rejection.

But healthy boundaries are an act of connection — they make real intimacy possible.

📖 Need a boundary refresher? Pick up ➡️ amzn.to/3404926

10/22/2025

10/20/2025

One of you wants structure — the other wants flexibility.

One says 'let it go,' the other says 'that’s not okay.'

You both love your kids, but sometimes it feels like you’re on opposite teams.

Parenting doesn’t come with a shared playbook — and that can lead to frustration, guilt, and distance.

Therapy can help you understand each other’s instincts, build teamwork, and find a rhythm that works for your whole family.

Let’s talk about how couples therapy can help. Book a free consultation today.

Not sure where to start? Reach out. We are here for you.

📞 519-639-4698
📧 therapy@evolvegroupinc.net
🌐 www.evolvegroupinc.net

10/20/2025

Helping Children & Teens Cope with Performance Anxiety

Is your child or teen feeling anxious about tests, sports, or performing in front of others?

The renewal of the school year often creates pressures, such as academic expectations, social dynamics, and extracurricular demands… they can all start to build up.
Here are some supportive strategies that can make a big difference:

💬 Normalize It
Acknowledging their feelings with statements such as: “Feeling nervous means you care” or “It’s totally normal to feel this way” lets them know they’re not alone and that many children feel this way, even if they don’t show it or openly discuss it.

🧘 Teach (and Role Model!) Calming Techniques
Teaching them simple tools such as deep breathing, visualization, and positive self-talk can help children regulate their emotions. Modeling these techniques yourself goes a long way too!

🧠 Reframe Mistakes
Let your children know that mistakes aren’t failures—they’re learning opportunities. Shift the focus from perfection to progress.

👀 Practice Real-Life Scenarios
Try mini run-throughs at home or help them develop “scripts” for new or anxiety-provoking situations. Familiarity builds confidence.

🌱 Build Confidence Gradually
Praise their effort, not just the outcome. Reflect together on what went well—even in imperfect moments.

🚨 Know When to Seek Additional Support
If anxiety starts to affect your child’s daily functioning, a therapist can help them learn new coping strategies and to explore their worries in a safe, supportive space. And remember—you don’t have to do it all alone. Having a neutral, trusted professional can help support BOTH of you!

Performance anxiety is real—but with the right tools and supports, kids can absolutely thrive!
📌 Save this and share with someone who needs it.

Need more support?
Reach out. We are here for you.

Sarah Humphrey, CYW, MSW, RSW works with children, teens, parents, and families.
She’s currently accepting new clients, offering a supportive space to help you and your child regain calm, confidence, and joy.

📞 519-639-4698
📧 therapy@evolvegroupinc.net
🌐 www.evolvegroupinc.net

10/20/2025

Early survival skills became your superpower.