My name is Dr. Katharina Manassis, M.D., FRCP(C): Author, certified Child Psychiatrist, and Professor Emerita at the University of Toronto. Although retired from practice, I hope to share some of what I have learned on this site. There are tips for parents and posted talks for mental health professionals. My books are accessible to a broad range of readers, though the ones on childhood anxiety, teen depression, and autistic youth are most relevant to parents; the cognitive-behavioral therapy, problem-solving, and case formulation ones are therapist-focused. “Developing Empathy” is important for us all. Enjoy!
In paperback and on Audible! “Why Taking Your Time Saves Time: Paradoxical Lessons for Our Own and Others’ Well-Being” Join me in this fascinating exploration of behavioral paradoxes: apparent contradictions which make sense once we understand the human needs and motivations behind them. Surprisingly, they may offer pathways to improved mental health, meaningful living, and well-being for ourselves and others. The book is rich with common sense and examples from lived experience to inspire the thoughtful, empathic reader. (Available on Kindle ; or paperback on amazon.com or amazon.ca)A great gift for someone special!
Two decades after losing her husband to a sudden brain hemorrhage during the S.A.R.S. crisis, Dr. Manassis experiences a frightening flashback when her son is hospitalized during the COVID-19 pandemic. An author and psychiatrist, she copes with her traumatic grief by writing about it, creating a poignant, thought-provoking, and ultimately hopeful chronicle of her personal healing journey. It raises important questions about how we treat those at the threshold of life’s conclusion, and how we define meaningful living.
Responding to adversity without blame is the key to finding interpersonal harmony and peace. To do so, we must understand why we blame, practice forgiveness, respond stoically, nurture a gentle spirituality, and perceive all beings with empathy. Vignettes from the author’s experience bring these
ideas to life. Enjoy!