Knowledge Centre
Browse our latest insights on on behavioural science, job loss, job search motivation, wellbeing, and more.
Intervention Brief— Bringing Mental Health to the Frontlines: What Community Organizations Can Learn from PM+ and Step-by-Step
Bringing Mental Health to the Frontlines: What Community Organizations Can Learn from PM+ and Step-by-Step Intervention Brief Introduction In Canada’s social sector, front-line staff are stretched thin. Coaches and advocates often find themselves supporting clients facing housing instability, food insecurity, trauma, and extreme stress—without adequate tools, training, or time. As demand for mental health-informed approaches rises, so does the need for interventions that are evidence-based, scalable, and designed for delivery by non-specialists. That’s why two innovations from the World Health
Why Aren’t More People Accessing Support? Rethinking ‘Take-Up’ with Behavioral Science
Why Aren’t More People Accessing Support? Rethinking ‘Take-Up’ with Behavioral Science Overview Many community programs offer life-changing support—ranging from help with groceries and job applications to budgeting assistance, housing navigation, and financial aid. Yet, despite the clear value of these programs, nonprofit leaders and frontline staff often encounter a persistent and troubling pattern: some of the individuals most in need of support are the least likely to access it. This gap between eligibility and participation is often referred to as
Too Many Decisions, Too Little Bandwidth: Helping Clients Navigate Decision Fatigue in Stabilization, Employment, and Financial Coaching
Too Many Decisions, Too Little Bandwidth: Helping Clients Navigate Decision Fatigue in Stabilization, Employment, and Financial Coaching Overview For many clients facing economic stress—whether they’re job searching, budgeting on a tight income, or navigating housing instability—life can feel like a constant stream of small but high-stakes choices. Over time, this can lead to decision fatigue, making it even harder to stay focused and move forward. Should I buy groceries today or wait until after the hydro bill clears? Should I
Intervention Brief: How Plan-Making Helps Job Seekers Get Hired
How Plan-Making Helps Job Seekers Get Hired Intervention Brief Overview Many job seekers struggle to stay organized, leading to scattered job searches and missed opportunities. Unemployment remains a persistent challenge, particularly for youth and marginalized job seekers. While many employment programs focus on training or job matching, research by Abel et al. (2019) suggests that Plan-Making—a simple, structured way to help job seekers set clear goals—can significantly boost employment success. Why This Matters for Practitioners Employment coaches, career counsellors, and
Can Nature Sounds Reduce Stress and Support Financial Stability?
Can Nature Sounds Reduce Stress and Support Financial Stability? How Nature Can Reduce Stress Financial insecurity can be overwhelming. The stress of searching for a job, managing expenses, and planning for the future takes a mental toll, making it harder to stay motivated. But what if something as simple as the sounds of nature could help? This article explores how birdsong and natural soundscapes can reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance decision-making—key factors for those navigating financial uncertainty. Research shows
Intervention Brief: Enhancing Client Resilience and Reducing Anxiety with Structured Breathwork
Enhancing Client Resilience and Reducing Anxiety with Structured Breathwork Intervention Brief Overview Economic challenges, job instability, and financial stress often increase anxiety, diminishing individuals’ resilience and focus. For those working towards financial empowerment or job stability, accessible tools for stress management can make a significant difference. Structured breathwork, particularly “cyclic sighing,” is an effective, no-cost intervention proven to enhance mood and reduce anxiety, making it valuable for practitioners to introduce to their clients. Why This Matters for Practitioners Coaches, counselors,
