Novel Coronavirus COVID-19
 

Mental Health Virtual Therapy Now Expanded


The COVID-19 pandemic brings a high level of stress and anxiety as it rapidly changes the way we work, socialize and live. Mental health virtual therapy can help Manitobans age 16 or older who are coping with mild to moderate symptoms of anxiety and now includes two free counselling sessions.



NEW: Two-session virtual counselling

Starting October 13, every Manitoba resident age 16 or older have access to up to two free counselling sessions with a trained professional at Morneau Shepell.

To book your first session, call toll free 1-844-218-2955. Counselling sessions can be by video or telephone, as preferred. Sessions are offered in multiple languages until December 31, 2020.



Sign up for the AbilitiCBT program now

AbilitiCBT is a free digital therapy program from Morneau Shepell, available to all residents of Manitoba age 16 or older experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of anxiety due to the pandemic. So far, over 4,000 Manitobans have signed up for the service in the last 6 months.



What to expect at signup with AbilitiCBT program

  • You will be redirected to the AbilitiCBT home page to sign up in English or French.
  • You will need to enter your email and create a password to access the program.
  • Next, you will be asked to complete the health screening questionnaire online.
  • After you sign up, you will receive a welcome email outlining your next steps, including:
    • Connecting with a professional therapist by phone or video
    • Moving through 10 structured modules

If you prefer to work from your smartphone or tablet, download the AbilitiCBT app.


About the AbilitiCBT digital therapy program

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective forms of therapy. AbilitiCBT by Morneau Shepell is a free online digital therapy program available to Manitoba residents age 16 or older experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of anxiety and depression due to the pandemic. It’s free, confidential and accessible at home on your computer, smartphone or tablet.
You do not need to be referred by a doctor to use AbiltiCBT. You will be able to connect to a professional therapist trained to help you deal with:

  • pandemic challenges
  • the state of uncertainty
  • physical isolation
  • care for family and community members
  • information overload
  • stress management

AbilitiCBT can help you:

  • Learn what anxiety is and how it affects your emotions, mind, body and behaviour.
  • Reduce anxiety by learning cognitive behavioral therapy skills and using them to change responses to triggers.
  • Develop coping strategies to track and reduce anxiety and better manage daily activities.

 



How AbilitiCBT works

  • The AbilitiCBT program starts by assessing your needs through an online questionnaire and consultation with a professional therapist -- either by phone or video chat.
  • Then, you move through 10 modules, at your own pace, while the therapist tracks and monitors your progress.
  • There will be scheduled check-ins along the way to make sure you're getting the help you need. You can connect with your therapist over the phone, via chat, or through a video check-in.

Why use AbilitiCBT

  • It's confidential
  • It works and is clinically effective
  • It's supported by experts
  • It's accessible from home
  • It's free and convenient

Not quite ready for therapy? Review these self-guided resources to support your total well-being.


Resources


Therapists in Manitoba: Join the Morneau Shepell Team

Morneau Shepell is recruiting professional therapists to support Manitobans struggling with COVID-19-related anxiety. Visit their website for information about the role and how to apply.