Acquired brain injury (ABI) refers to any type of damage to the brain that is acquired or occurs after birth to an otherwise typically developing brain. ABI can result from a traumatic event (e.g., motor vehicle accidents, falls, hits/assaults to the head, wounds, sports injuries, etc.) or non-traumatic event (e.g., concussion or altered states of consciousness), stroke, or other medical conditions. An ABI can lead to a range of physical, neurological, cognitive, and emotional challenges that require specialized support and rehabilitation.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by persistent inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development which can impact an individual’s daily functioning across settings and have an impact on one’s quality of life.

Anxiety is a natural emotional and physiological response to perceived threats or stressors. When anxiety becomes excessive, persistent, and interferes with daily life, it may be indicative of an anxiety disorder. There are several types of anxiety disorders (e.g., panic disorder, social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, etc.) be managed through a variety of evidence-based interventions, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication.

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition marked by a pattern of instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and emotions. Individuals with BPD often experience intense mood swings, impulsivity, difficulty managing anger, experience fear of abandonment, suicidal behaviour or self-harm.

Chronic pain is an ongoing, persistent pain that lasts for an extended period, often without a clear underlying cause. It can significantly impact an individual’s mental health, physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Depressive disorders are characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, irritable mood, and are accompanied by loss of interest in activities, physiological and cognitive changes that can interfere with an individual’s daily functioning. There are several types of depressive disorders (e.g., major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder, premensrtrul dysmorphic disorder, etc.) that vary by etiology, duration and timing.

Disability refers to any physical, mental, cognitive, or sensory impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Individuals with disabilities may require specialized accommodations, assistive technologies, and support services to participate fully in their communities.

Existential curiosity is a philosophical and psychological concept that explores the human experience of being, meaning, and purpose in life. Depersonalization, on the other hand, is a dissociative experience where an individual feels detached from their own thoughts, actions, feelings, or body, often as a response to trauma or stress.

Grief is a natural emotional response to the loss of a loved one, a significant relationship, or an important aspect of one’s life. The grieving process can be complex and may involve a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, and guilt.

This term refers to individuals who belong to indigenous, ethnic, or other marginalized communities, often facing systemic barriers, discrimination, and social inequities.

LGBTQ+ is an umbrella term that encompasses a diverse range of sexual orientations and gender identities, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other non-heteronormative identities. Individuals within the LGBTQ+ community may face unique challenges and require affirmative, inclusive, and culturally-sensitive support.

These terms refer to various approaches and strategies used to enhance the knowledge, skills, and competencies of mental health professionals. This can include providing educational workshops, group-based learning opportunities, and ongoing professional development to better serve clients and address their diverse needs.

Trauma refers to an event or series of events that overwhelm an individual’s ability to cope, leading to long-lasting emotional, psychological, and physical effects. Complex trauma refers to the experience of multiple, chronic, and often interpersonal traumatic events, typically of an invasive, interpersonal nature. This can include physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, as well as neglect, abandonment, and exposure to violence. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Trauma affects an individual’s emotional, cognitive, behavioral, social, and physical functioning. Survivors may struggle with issues like PTSD, dissociation, affect dysregulation, relationship difficulties, and a negative self-concept.