When her daughter was eight months old, Ashley could barely get in a car because she was worried about the possibility of a crash.

Ashley acknowledges her own childhood’s role in her fragile mental health. She dealt with bullying in elementary school and, as it turned out, she also had attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, although it was not diagnosed at the time. Losing her grandfather when she was a teen further contributed to her anxious and depressive state: “I definitely had a rough go when I was younger.”

Ashley’s family doctor recommended medication and therapy, specifically the OSP program, which offers free treatment for individuals with depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive concerns, post-traumatic stress and other conditions. Psychiatrists, primary care providers or other health care professionals can refer clients. Alternatively, clients may self-refer at www.therapyontario.ca. Referrals in this region are co-ordinated by Waypoint, and services are delivered in a range of community settings.

Ashley began virtual cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in August 2020. CBT helps patients spot and change negative thoughts and behaviours. It shows them how feelings and thoughts can influence what they do. By understanding these patterns, they can start to change their actions and find new ways to cope.

“The therapist was awesome,” she said. “We just clicked; I felt like I was having a conversation with someone I had known a long time. She made me realize I deserved the good relationships I had in my life. That actually helped me a lot with my self-worth.”

Now 33 and working as a hairstylist in Barrie, Ashley feels OSP made a huge impact on her life by providing tools to deal with the fears that have long troubled her. While some days are darker than others, the clouds have mostly cleared and she has reclaimed power over her feelings: “I can notice when I’m spiralling and I can work through it.”