Y Mind Adult

Y Mind Adult

Program Description

Y Mind Adult creates a supportive, welcoming space for adults ages 31+ who want to build healthier ways to manage stress, worry and mild to moderate anxiety. Rooted in evidence-based approaches and aligned with YMCA values of equity, inclusion and community well-being, Y Mind Adult empowers participants to feel supported, capable and more confident in their daily lives.

7 Weeks
Free
Group of 10-12
Y Membership Required: No
Y Mind Adult
Program overview

Y Mind Adult uses evidence-based strategies rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and mindfulness to help adults understand anxiety, learn coping skills and build a more compassionate relationship with themselves. Participants learn alongside a small peer group and trained mental health professionals who provide guidance, tools and encouragement each week.

This program is offered by YMCA BC and is open to residents across British Columbia.

Program benefits
  • Evidence-Based Learning
    • ACT and mindfulness practices
    • Strategies to understand and manage anxious thoughts
    • Weekly guided activities and take-home tools
  • Supportive Group Environment
    • Safe, welcoming space
    • Small-group connection with peers
    • Professional facilitators with mental wellness expertise
  • YMCA Wellness Support
    • Access to fitness and wellness spaces
    • Increased sense of belonging and community

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Program eligibility
  • Adults ages 31+
  • People who are dealing with mild to moderate anxiety - mild-to-moderate anxiety simply means you are experiencing stress and anxiety; it can feel quite distressing, even overwhelming sometimes, however, you are still able to function in most areas of your life
  • Able to attend all 7 sessions (not a drop-in program)  
  • Willing and open to engage in group activities
  • Residing in BC
  • Self-referral, no formal diagnosis required
Program schedule
  • Y Mind Programs run throughout the year; Inquire for upcoming dates
  • Length: Seven-week program, usually between 6:00pm and 8:30pm weeknights
  • Time commitment: 2.5 hours one evening per week for seven weeks
  • Mode: In-person for Kamloops residents at the Jon Tod Centre Y and virtual (online) across the rest of BC
  • Information sessions will be offered; inquire for dates
Register for
Y Mind Adult
Ready to join?

Program registration steps may vary by region. Please select your region below to get started.

Greater Vancouver Programs

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Kamloops Programs

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Northern BC Programs

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Program FAQs

Find answers to common questions about our program below.

Is the program really free?

Yes. The program is free for participants, thanks to our generous funders!

What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy?

ACT teaches skills for working with difficult thoughts and feelings while taking meaningful action guided by personal values. It is an evidence based approach that supports long term wellbeing.

What if I am nervous about joining a group?

Facilitators understand that attending a mental wellness group is a brave step. They create a supportive space where sharing is always optional.

Is this therapy? Is prior counselling experience required?

Y Mind is a group based psychoeducational program grounded in cognitive behavioral and mindfulness approaches. It teaches coping skills but is not clinical therapy. And no, previous counselling experience is not required. Many participants join Y Mind as their first step in seeking support.

Is there another Y Mind program for other age groups?

Yes. Y Mind Youth supports ages 18 to 30, and Y Mind Adult supports ages 31 and older. We also provide mental wellness support to indigenous teen and youth via YMCA BC's Mind Medicine program as well as autistic teens ages 13 to 17 via Y Mind Teen with Canucks Autism Network.

When you join the YMCA you join more than a gym. You join a community.