- Accessible to All, No Payment Required for Free Groups, No Hidden Fees
- Live, Online Access from the Comfort of Your Home
- Led by Therapists
- Over 20 Years’ Experience
- 300,000+ Sessions to Date
- Helping over 35,000+ Canadians Access Trusted Mental Health Support
Online Group Therapy
Free Online Groups
September 2023
CBT for Anxiety – Monday September 11th, 7 pm -8 pm (4 weeks)
Cost: FREE
Therapist: Jay Rao (Click for Bio)
Click Here for Group Details & Sign-Up
November 2023
CBT for Anxiety – Monday November 6th, 7 pm -8 pm (4 weeks)
Cost: FREE
Therapist: Jay Rao (Click for Bio)
Click Here for Group Details & Sign-Up
October 2023
CBT for Anxiety – Thursday October 5th, 6 pm -7 pm (4 weeks)
Cost: FREE
Therapist: Nicole Callander (Click for Bio)
Click Here for Group Details & Sign-Up
January 2024
CBT for Anxiety – Thursday January 4th, 6 pm -7 pm (4 weeks)
Cost: FREE
Therapist: Nicole Callander (Click for Bio)
Click Here for Group Details & Sign-Up
September 2023
CBT for Anxiety – Monday September 11th, 7 pm -8 pm (4 weeks)
Cost: FREE
Therapist: Jay Rao (Click for Bio)
Click Here for Group Details & Sign-Up
October 2023
CBT for Anxiety – Thursday October 5th, 6 pm -7 pm (4 weeks)
Cost: FREE
Therapist: Nicole Callander (Click for Bio)
Click Here for Group Details & Sign-Up
November 2023
CBT for Anxiety – Monday November 6th, 7 pm -8 pm (4 weeks)
Cost: FREE
Therapist: Jay Rao (Click for Bio)
Click Here for Group Details & Sign-Up
January 2024
CBT for Anxiety – Thursday January 4th, 6 pm -7 pm (4 weeks)
Cost: FREE
Therapist: Nicole Callander (Click for Bio)
Click Here for Group Details & Sign-Up
These are small groups and are offered on a first-come-first-served basis. Once the maximum number of participants is reached, the group will be closed for that session.
To View the Online Group Details, Read the Group Overview and Register:
Stay informed of our new online group dates, announcements, and upcoming free workshops by signing up for email notifications.
To date, we have helped over 35,000+
Canadians.
“My story began in the same place as many of our clients’ stories begin: in tragedy and grief. After losing a family member in an auto accident, I found the right support and it changed my life. This therapeutic connection helped me process my grief and began the healing process.
This experience changed the course of my life and began what would be our mission of creating Bayridge Counselling.”
KIM CHRISTINK , EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The effectiveness of group therapy is well researched.
These benefits include the opportunity for members to feel supported and accepted in a safe environment. This helps to reduce stigma and isolation for many group members. It can also create a strong sense of community among members.
So why do we offer group therapy online?
The main benefit of online group therapy is convenience and privacy. It may be more accessible for some people. It can provide additional privacy by not having to be in a waiting room or facility. Online group therapy can also make some members feel more comfortable being able to join from the privacy of their homes.
What makes Bayridge online group different?
Bayridge online groups are closed and consist of a maximum of 12 participants. This creates a small and effective support network for the participants. Even more rewarding is that often, members share new strategies on how they cope in certain situations which leads to many empowering moments amongst the members.
What can you expect when you join an online group?
One of the fundamental rules on online group therapy is that the virtual group environment is one of safety, in which a participant has the opportunity to be vulnerable enough to explore and process complex emotions free of judgement and criticism. As a therapist, it is our commitment to create this space for all members.
What will you need to join a Bayridge online therapy group?
You will need a quiet, private space in your home so that you can talk privately. You will also need a mobile or desktop computer with camera access. You will also need to choose a username. Members can use their real name or “nickname”, if they prefer. Each participant will be able to see the group (members) virtually so they can benefit from the group support dynamic. Connection is key to building a sense of community so seeing the members faces is crucial to building that connection.
Therapy itself is a rewarding journey that helps you become self-aware, emotionally stronger, improve relationships and how you interact with people in your life. Therapy in a group setting has the opportunity to reap the same rewards although, you are able to have a greater support system and community on your journey.
Please feel free to reach out to our Bayridge team if you have any questions!
COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY FOR ANXIETY
Is anxiety causing you difficulty at work, home, school or in relationships? Many people live with significant anxiety that creates emotional distress.
You are not alone. Often it is difficult to determine why it is happening or what to do about it when you feel overwhelmed and anxious.
Our goal is to create a safe therapeutic space led by a professional psychotherapist to answer your questions, provide therapy and to help you create a path to wellness and emotional calm.
You may have many questions and we can help you find the answers.
Providing online group therapy aligns with our Community Mission to increase access to trusted mental health support for all.
IS GROUP THERAPY A GOOD FIT FOR ME?
- Group Members should be comfortable sharing in a group setting.
- Group Therapy brings people who have similar experiences together. Interaction amongst clients is an integral part of the Therapeutic process.
- Group Therapy helps develop self-awareness by listening to others with similar issues. Although, unlike individual therapy, there is less time to share to give everyone a safe space to have a turn sharing.
- Group Members are expected to respect other participants privacy by not disclosing their identity or discussing the content of the sessions.
- Being part of a group with a common goal helps members gain a sense of belonging.
- Groups offer a different perspective from every member. Varied levels of examination allows the client a clearer insight.
- Members must be at an acceptable level of daily functionality in order to effectively participate. Clients in crisis or who are suicidal are not good candidates for Group Therapy.
What's Covered In The Group? 4 - Week Outline
MODULE 1 - Why do I worry?
- What is Anxiety?
- Genetic
- Life Stressors
- Fight and Flight
MODULE 2 - How Do My Thoughts Impact My Feelings?
- Introduction to the CBT model
- How Thoughts Influence Feelings?
- Identifying Cognitive Distortions
- Challenging Cognitive Distortions
MODULE 3 - What Can I Do to Feel Less Anxious?
- Daily Habits (Exercise, Diet, Sleep)
- Introduction to Mindfulness
- Introduction to Exposure Therapy and Interventions
MODULE 4 - How Do I Get Well and Stay Well?
- Change Process Balance Sheet
- Identifying What Life Would Look Like Without Anxiety
- Identifying Barriers That Will Affect Your Journey to Getting Healthier
- Creating a Plan to Overcome Those Barriers
ABOUT BAYRIDGE COUNSELLING CENTRES
Our journey began with Bayridge Counselling Centres. Over 20 years ago, our founder Kim Christink, opened the first clinic and we have since grown to nine centres throughout Ontario, with 40+ therapy specialists. Along with support staff, we also employ caring client coordinators who will focus on understanding your needs in order to match you with the best therapist for you.
Online therapy groups are led by the same qualified therapists that work in our centres. All Bayridge therapists are hand-picked and must meet our Excellence in Therapy qualifications.
Through this journey we have seen how hard it has been for some people to access trusted, quality mental health support. Our mission has always been the same. We develop services and work with partners with one focused desire: to increase the access to quality mental health support.
Join Us for Free Online Group Therapy
A Mission To Support Our Community
As part of our community, one of our missions is to bring greater access to mental health support. One way we do this is through free online groups. Group therapy can foster support and understanding among individuals facing similar challenges.
Online Group
Therapy
We limit the number of participants in online groups to create an effective support network for the members. Even more rewarding is that often, members share new strategies on how they cope in certain situations which leads to many empowering moments amongst the members.
Capturing Efficiencies Through Technology
With access to the internet through our smart devices, more people are able to access services online that previously could only be offered in person. If, at any time, group therapy participants wish to schedule a 1-on-1 session with the therapist, they can simply book an online session, regardless of the therapist’s location.
How it Works
We’re here to answer any questions you may have on how group therapy works:
Easy Access Online
All our group therapy sessions are offered online. Log in from the comfort of your home. Our online group therapy is offered over a private connection.
Experience Matters
Bayridge has over 20 years’ experience and brings a wealth of knowledge to our therapeutic online groups. We’re here to support you.
Experienced Therapists
All online therapy groups are led by Bayridge therapists. Bayridge Counselling Centres include 45+ therapists specialists.
OUTSTANDING THERAPISTS &
MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST
- Registered Social Workers
- Registered Psychotherapists
- Registered Psychologists
- Educational Specialists
- ADHD Program for Kids & Teens
- Sexual Health Specialist
- Psycho-Educational Specialists
- Medical Doctors
EXPERIENCE MATTERS:
We’ve supported 35,000+ individuals and completed over 300,000 sessions to date.
MEET OUR ONLINE
THERAPIST
Nicole Callandar, RSSW
Registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Services Workers
Focus: Anger Management, Adults, Adolescents, Youth Issues, Self-esteem, Teen-Parent Relationships, Mental Health Issues, Problematic Behaviour
“I am registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I have specialized training in Anger Management, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Individuals with Special Needs and Adolescents.
My biggest passion is empowering individuals to find the resources they need to become the best version of themselves.
For my clients with anger issues, I help navigate through their triggers and their unhealthy automatic behaviours. We journey on a path of self awareness towards a goal of creating healthier behaviours when we are angry.
I am also experienced to help individuals of all ages overcome issues such as anxiety, depression, work and stress management. I am the mother of four children. Two of my children have special needs (my daughter has a severe genetic disability and my son has ADHD, Executive Functioning issues and severe learning disabilities).
It’s a rewarding and privileged experience to walk along the path of self-empowerment with my clients. I would be honoured to take the journey with you.”
MEET OUR ONLINE
THERAPIST
Jay Rao, BSc, MS Psy
Registered Psychotherapist
Focus: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Pain, Weight Management, Addictions, Life Transitions, Sports Performance, and Wellness Development
“As a counsellor and healthcare professional driven by compassion and a commitment to others, I believe that humans have the capacity to solve even the most complex of problems through utilizing themselves as their own resource. My education allows me the ability to help guide you through the most challenging issues in your life, but ultimately the greatest joy I receive is witnessing a sense of value, self-identity, and self-worth return as a result of reconnecting with the one person that matters the very most: you.
In treatment I rely on Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Solutions-Based Therapy, and Emotionally-Focused Therapy. Additionally, I draw from medical models of health in the facilitation of rehabilitation, dietary, and wellness goals for individuals. I am passionate about educating and motivating others to achieve the quality of life they deserve.”
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ONLINE GROUP THERAPY
To sign up, you simply contact our front office and the client care specialist will assist you in registering for the group. They will need to do a quick intake over the phone which will include gathering some general information and the name you will use in the group. They will also answer any questions you may have. You will then be scheduled into the group sessions and be sent an invite and a consent form to be completed.
Our therapists are busy and see clients back-to-back, all day; however, we have a wonderful administrative team who will help you out by answering any questions you might have and sending a message to your therapist, if needed.
Yes! You may certainly continue with individual counselling after you have completed the group sessions! Many clients like to move on to individual sessions to continue on the road to increased self-awareness and growth in other areas of their life or relationships.
Having a therapist is much like having other health professionals on your team, like your dentist, massage therapist or trainer. These are people we have in our lives to help us keep healthy.
We have a wide range of exceptional therapists to choose from. Our therapists have a variety of credentials, specializations and years of experience and, as such, the fees vary from therapist to therapist. Our helpful client care specialist will assist you in selecting a therapist who will be a good fit for you.
For those of you who have extended health care benefits through work, your sessions may be covered. Please look into your benefits to determine what credentials your therapist is required to have.
Of course! We have two client care specialists who would be happy to answer any questions you may have about joining up for a group
They are on the phone and ready to help!
Monday to Thursday 8:30am to 6pm Friday 8:30am to 3:30pm
Or you can live chat with them on our website. After hours you can email them.
Participants must abide by the following rules.
- Respect the emotional safety of the confidential environment.
- To create an environment everyone feels safe sharing in, we require confidentiality from the participants. What happens and is said in the group is confidential. It is not to be shared outside of the group.
- Respect for all participants is expected. Not everyone’s experience with anxiety is the same. It is important to have an open mind about other participants’ experiences.
- Give opportunity for all group members to participate.
- The same participants will be together for the full six-week program.
