Setting Intentions for the New Year
January 3, 2026
Why the New Year Inspires a Focus on Mental Well-Being
With the new year in full swing, many of us think of it as a time filled with fresh starts, renewed motivation, and the promise of possibility. As January 1st draws closer, people feel an instinctive pull to pause, reflect, and envision who they want to become in the months ahead. This ritual of setting intentions is a meaningful psychological process that allows us to take stock of our lives and commit to change with intention. Among the many goals people set each January, more and more are choosing to prioritize their mental and emotional well-being. For many, that means making counselling one of their New Year’s goals.
Why make counselling a goal?
New Year’s resolutions often revolve around visible, measurable achievements such as exercising more and eating healthier. While these aspirations are valuable, they can overlook the internal barriers that make long-term change difficult. Counselling provides a space to explore these deeper patterns, habits, and emotions that influence daily life. By acknowledging the connection between internal and external goals, the new year becomes less about striving for perfection and more about creating sustainable, meaningful growth.
Helps you achieve other goals
Helps you achieve other goals
The structure of counselling aligns naturally with the goal-setting spirit of the new year. Therapy often involves identifying areas of change, setting realistic goals, and breaking them into manageable steps. It provides accountability in a compassionate, non-judgmental environment where someone is holding you accountable instead of relying on willpower alone. Individuals learn evidence-based strategies that help them move forward even when motivation fluctuates. This makes counselling not only a goal in itself but a powerful support system for achieving all your goals.
Growth is Ongoing
Ultimately, setting a goal to engage in counselling acknowledges that growth is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. It invites individuals to approach the new year with curiosity and hope rather than pressure, and with self-care rather than self-criticism. By choosing therapy as one of your resolutions, you affirm a commitment to understanding yourself, nurturing your mental health, and creating a more intentional and fulfilling year ahead!
We are here to help!
At OK Clinical Therapy Group, we’re committed to ensuring counselling is accessible to all. With 9 clinic locations across BC and the option for virtual, phone, or in-person counselling, we’re here to support you wherever you are.
With the new year in mind, give yourself the time and space to work on your goals with one of our supportive counsellors. We have master’s students who offer low-fee counselling, post-interns who offer reduced-rate services, and counsellors who offer sliding-scale services. No matter your situation, we will help you work through it.
Call or text us at 250-718-9291, and we’ll help get you connected with the counsellor who feels like the best fit for you!
Written by: Michelle Rupitz, Practicum Student
To book: Click Here!
