Chronic Pain Therapists in Calgary, AB

Photo of Deborah R Lain - SoulSpring Counselling Inc., BA, MSc, RPsych, Psychologist
SoulSpring Counselling Inc.
Psychologist, BA, MSc, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3E  (Online Only)
My specialization is Health Psychology: chronic illness, adjusting to recent diagnoses, BRCA1, BRCA2, chronic pain, loss, medical trauma, preparing for medical procedures or surgery, tinnitus management, seminars, meditation and Ayurvedic healing.
I have strong clinical skills and am a goal-oriented therapist and celebrating 40 years experience in July, 2023. I'm passionate about my work with those who seek new meaning to multiple issues and who need clarity to that which has been overwhelming. You will be supported to participate in a process that facilitates healing, learn new skills and be empowered to overcome obstacles and replace unhealthy patterns. In our work, you will discover opportunities to appreciate the purpose, lessons and potential gifts out of your challenges.
My specialization is Health Psychology: chronic illness, adjusting to recent diagnoses, BRCA1, BRCA2, chronic pain, loss, medical trauma, preparing for medical procedures or surgery, tinnitus management, seminars, meditation and Ayurvedic healing.
I have strong clinical skills and am a goal-oriented therapist and celebrating 40 years experience in July, 2023. I'm passionate about my work with those who seek new meaning to multiple issues and who need clarity to that which has been overwhelming. You will be supported to participate in a process that facilitates healing, learn new skills and be empowered to overcome obstacles and replace unhealthy patterns. In our work, you will discover opportunities to appreciate the purpose, lessons and potential gifts out of your challenges.
(587) 801-5837 View (587) 801-5837
Photo of Jennifer Hrstic, CCC, MACP, Counsellor
Jennifer Hrstic
Counsellor, CCC, MACP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3C
You can learn to trust your judgment, be comfortable with your feelings, manage pain, and know that when a problem arises, you can handle it.
Does life keep catching up with you and knocking you off balance? Maybe you’re weighed down by worry, dread, exhaustion, or pain. Sometimes you look around and wonder, how did I get here? You might not recognize your work, relationships, body or home as they changed while you were busy taking care of everything and everyone else. Your empathy and compassion is a great strength, and yet there is a cost to caring that impacts your health and well-being. I help people with chronic illness, chronic pain, self-esteem, trauma and PTSD to have more energy & enjoy a renewed sense of purpose. It is possible to find a good balance.
You can learn to trust your judgment, be comfortable with your feelings, manage pain, and know that when a problem arises, you can handle it.
Does life keep catching up with you and knocking you off balance? Maybe you’re weighed down by worry, dread, exhaustion, or pain. Sometimes you look around and wonder, how did I get here? You might not recognize your work, relationships, body or home as they changed while you were busy taking care of everything and everyone else. Your empathy and compassion is a great strength, and yet there is a cost to caring that impacts your health and well-being. I help people with chronic illness, chronic pain, self-esteem, trauma and PTSD to have more energy & enjoy a renewed sense of purpose. It is possible to find a good balance.
(587) 570-4914 View (587) 570-4914
Photo of E.j. Kim, MEd, RPsych, Psychologist
E.j. Kim
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T1Y  (Online Only)
Hi, thanks for viewing my profile. As a registered psychologist, I have experience supporting adults and adolescents through various (and often closely related) difficulties, including trauma, anxiety-related, and depressive disorders, as well as emotion regulation, work-related stress, assertiveness/boundary setting, and chronic pain management.
Hi, thanks for viewing my profile. As a registered psychologist, I have experience supporting adults and adolescents through various (and often closely related) difficulties, including trauma, anxiety-related, and depressive disorders, as well as emotion regulation, work-related stress, assertiveness/boundary setting, and chronic pain management.
(587) 412-5093 View (587) 412-5093
Photo of Anne Hampson - Anne Hampson Equine Therapy , MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Hampson Equine Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2H
Standing in a field with horses can be so simple, yet very powerful. We can learn so much by just being with, watching, and observing. Horses navigate their nervous systems very naturally and without hesitation. For nervous system regulation they have so much to teach us. Together we practice the principles of polyvagal theory in real time while being in the presence of horses which only makes this learning more powerful. My areas of expertise include working with chronic and neuroplastic pain, addiction, PTSD, anxiety and depressive disorders.
Standing in a field with horses can be so simple, yet very powerful. We can learn so much by just being with, watching, and observing. Horses navigate their nervous systems very naturally and without hesitation. For nervous system regulation they have so much to teach us. Together we practice the principles of polyvagal theory in real time while being in the presence of horses which only makes this learning more powerful. My areas of expertise include working with chronic and neuroplastic pain, addiction, PTSD, anxiety and depressive disorders.
(587) 715-0719 View (587) 715-0719
Photo of Illisha Cassandra Patterson - Resilience at Play Psychology , RPsych, MAPsych, Psychologist
Resilience at Play Psychology
Psychologist, RPsych, MAPsych
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2M
I have experience working with people who have a variety of concerns but the most common include: Trauma/PTSD, Chronic Pain, Grief/Loss, Depression and Anxiety.
As a psychologist I often hear "no one can help because no one understands!". Sometimes people feel overwhelmed and alone in the pain, fear and uncertainty. When chaos and crises are your daily reality, how do you manage? When you keep thinking about the horrible things that did or could happen, how do you stop? When you don't want to get up in the morning, how do you face the day? Honestly, I don't have all the answers but I have personally seen people find joy despite ongoing sorrow and I have seen tears and smiles coexist. I believe that with the right support, all people can explore how to find a sense of calm within the storm.
I have experience working with people who have a variety of concerns but the most common include: Trauma/PTSD, Chronic Pain, Grief/Loss, Depression and Anxiety.
As a psychologist I often hear "no one can help because no one understands!". Sometimes people feel overwhelmed and alone in the pain, fear and uncertainty. When chaos and crises are your daily reality, how do you manage? When you keep thinking about the horrible things that did or could happen, how do you stop? When you don't want to get up in the morning, how do you face the day? Honestly, I don't have all the answers but I have personally seen people find joy despite ongoing sorrow and I have seen tears and smiles coexist. I believe that with the right support, all people can explore how to find a sense of calm within the storm.
(587) 602-1020 View (587) 602-1020
Photo of Tanner Murtagh, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Tanner Murtagh
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2H
If you are ready to regulate your nervous system and reduce your anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, or chronic symptoms please reach out to me.
In my practice, I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, chronic pain, and chronic symptoms. I focus on using mind-body approaches to support people in regulating their nervous system, approaching their emotions with a sense of safety, becoming embodied, and living life with passion. Many mental and physical health concerns are due to a dysregulated nervous system, so to heal we need to build a relationship with our nervous system using top-down and bottom-up approaches to self-regulate.
If you are ready to regulate your nervous system and reduce your anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, or chronic symptoms please reach out to me.
In my practice, I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, chronic pain, and chronic symptoms. I focus on using mind-body approaches to support people in regulating their nervous system, approaching their emotions with a sense of safety, becoming embodied, and living life with passion. Many mental and physical health concerns are due to a dysregulated nervous system, so to heal we need to build a relationship with our nervous system using top-down and bottom-up approaches to self-regulate.
(587) 813-0134 View (587) 813-0134
Photo of Janice Cathcart, Psychologist
Janice Cathcart
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2N
I completed my psychology internship at Alberta Health Services in outpatient psychiatry and chronic pain programs.
Are you struggling or feeling stuck? I am a psychologist with over 25 years experience working with a wide variety of clients. Currently, I work primarily with adults who are experiencing chronic pain, adjustment to illness or life transitions, anxiety, stress, insomnia, and burn-out. I consider therapy an active, collaborative process requiring a compassionate and nuanced approach. I appreciate that each individual's process is unique and together we will work to help you move toward more fully living the life you desire.
I completed my psychology internship at Alberta Health Services in outpatient psychiatry and chronic pain programs.
Are you struggling or feeling stuck? I am a psychologist with over 25 years experience working with a wide variety of clients. Currently, I work primarily with adults who are experiencing chronic pain, adjustment to illness or life transitions, anxiety, stress, insomnia, and burn-out. I consider therapy an active, collaborative process requiring a compassionate and nuanced approach. I appreciate that each individual's process is unique and together we will work to help you move toward more fully living the life you desire.
(825) 360-0479 View (825) 360-0479
Photo of Margaret J Taylor, BEd,  BA, MC, R Psych, EMDR, Psychologist
Margaret J Taylor
Psychologist, BEd, BA, MC, R Psych, EMDR
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2Y  (Online Only)
Margaret believes that Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) efficiently takes the pain out of the memories and that "Laughter is the best medicine" particularly when paired with music and self-help strategies! I will assist you similarly to TRAIN YOUR BRAIN in the same process you learned your multiplication tables, safely and securely via Jane software video on your computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone or via telephone or texting. *Alberta residents only, please and thank you, as per my registered psychologist license. 1-403-680-9707 Cel.
Margaret believes that Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) efficiently takes the pain out of the memories and that "Laughter is the best medicine" particularly when paired with music and self-help strategies! I will assist you similarly to TRAIN YOUR BRAIN in the same process you learned your multiplication tables, safely and securely via Jane software video on your computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone or via telephone or texting. *Alberta residents only, please and thank you, as per my registered psychologist license. 1-403-680-9707 Cel.
(587) 800-4220 View (587) 800-4220
Photo of Sharla J. Zalmanowitz, Sharla Zalmanowitz, MEd, RPsych, Psychologist
Sharla J. Zalmanowitz
Psychologist, Sharla Zalmanowitz, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2W  (Online Only)
As a Registered Psychologist with more than a decade of experience in mental wellness, I'm passionate about helping my clients achieve optimal health by addressing the connection between their minds and bodies. My approach is practical and effective, offering tools to manage the physiological, psychological, and interpersonal manifestations of stress and distress. This could include anything from chronic pain and sleep disturbances to health concerns and relationship conflicts, among other issues.
As a Registered Psychologist with more than a decade of experience in mental wellness, I'm passionate about helping my clients achieve optimal health by addressing the connection between their minds and bodies. My approach is practical and effective, offering tools to manage the physiological, psychological, and interpersonal manifestations of stress and distress. This could include anything from chronic pain and sleep disturbances to health concerns and relationship conflicts, among other issues.
(825) 540-6654 View (825) 540-6654
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth N. Matendechere, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Elizabeth N. Matendechere
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2L
When it comes to Psychological Services, We Care! I am a registered Clinical/Counseling Psychologist in the Province of Alberta with over 16 years of experience in the counseling field; and an Instructor of Psychology Courses. I specialize in Maternal Health (Pre-Term Loses, Pre and Postpartum Depression, Anxiety, Gynecological Diagnoses) Chronic Pain, Headache, Migraines, Adjustment, Grief and Loss, Panic Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Personality Disorders, Addictions, Gambling, Eating Disorders, Domestic Violence, Self Esteem, Trauma, Family Issues, Clinical Assessments, Relationships, Inner Child, Abandonment, Anger etc.
When it comes to Psychological Services, We Care! I am a registered Clinical/Counseling Psychologist in the Province of Alberta with over 16 years of experience in the counseling field; and an Instructor of Psychology Courses. I specialize in Maternal Health (Pre-Term Loses, Pre and Postpartum Depression, Anxiety, Gynecological Diagnoses) Chronic Pain, Headache, Migraines, Adjustment, Grief and Loss, Panic Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Personality Disorders, Addictions, Gambling, Eating Disorders, Domestic Violence, Self Esteem, Trauma, Family Issues, Clinical Assessments, Relationships, Inner Child, Abandonment, Anger etc.
(587) 855-5745 View (587) 855-5745
Photo of Moriah Edge-Partington, MEd, BA, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Moriah Edge-Partington
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MEd, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T1Y
My approach to therapy is genuine and collaborative. In my practice, I specialize in supporting individuals facing chronic pain, sleep issues, trauma, burnout, and career challenges. I strive to help my clients work towards meaningful change and achieving their goals. I believe in our brain’s incredible capacity to adapt and change, showing our ability to continually grow and overcome challenges. In therapy, I incorporate evidence-based approaches while bringing an authentic, non-judgmental approach to create safety and a space to heal.
My approach to therapy is genuine and collaborative. In my practice, I specialize in supporting individuals facing chronic pain, sleep issues, trauma, burnout, and career challenges. I strive to help my clients work towards meaningful change and achieving their goals. I believe in our brain’s incredible capacity to adapt and change, showing our ability to continually grow and overcome challenges. In therapy, I incorporate evidence-based approaches while bringing an authentic, non-judgmental approach to create safety and a space to heal.
(587) 905-0717 View (587) 905-0717
Photo of Kelly Reissig, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kelly Reissig
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2H
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, or simply seeking ways to manage life's complexities, I am here to support you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.
Life can present us with unexpected challenges- family conflict, relationship difficulties, parenting concerns, or haunting past experiences- that can leave us feeling trapped, depressed, anxious, and unhappy in all sorts of ways. While stress is a normal part of the human experience, we don't need to be ruled by it. My passion lies in helping individuals navigate through these difficult thoughts, painful self-defeating beliefs, and experiences. I aim to empower you to take action and reconnect with the things that hold true value in your life.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, or simply seeking ways to manage life's complexities, I am here to support you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.
Life can present us with unexpected challenges- family conflict, relationship difficulties, parenting concerns, or haunting past experiences- that can leave us feeling trapped, depressed, anxious, and unhappy in all sorts of ways. While stress is a normal part of the human experience, we don't need to be ruled by it. My passion lies in helping individuals navigate through these difficult thoughts, painful self-defeating beliefs, and experiences. I aim to empower you to take action and reconnect with the things that hold true value in your life.
(587) 800-8278 View (587) 800-8278
Photo of Alisha Shivji, MEd, RPsych, CCTP, GCPain, Psychologist
Alisha Shivji
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych, CCTP, GCPain
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2A
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there! I am a Registered Psychologist practicing out of multiple locations in Calgary, Alberta (Marlborough, Sunridge, and Macleod Trail). Are you struggling with your mental health and/or finding it tough to cope with life stressors? Or perhaps you want to work on self-improvement and are not sure where to begin? I may be able to help! Some of the more common challenges I assist with include depression, anxiety, trauma, motor vehicle accidents, pain management, stress management, sleep issues, grief, concussions or traumatic brain injuries, adjusting to life changes, and return to work issues. I also work with WCB and NIHB.
Hi there! I am a Registered Psychologist practicing out of multiple locations in Calgary, Alberta (Marlborough, Sunridge, and Macleod Trail). Are you struggling with your mental health and/or finding it tough to cope with life stressors? Or perhaps you want to work on self-improvement and are not sure where to begin? I may be able to help! Some of the more common challenges I assist with include depression, anxiety, trauma, motor vehicle accidents, pain management, stress management, sleep issues, grief, concussions or traumatic brain injuries, adjusting to life changes, and return to work issues. I also work with WCB and NIHB.
(587) 207-4806 View (587) 207-4806
Photo of Tanner Murtagh - Pain Psychotherapy Canada, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pain Psychotherapy Canada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2H
Collectively, our team utilizes the following approaches: Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Radical Exposure Tapping, and Narrative Therapy.
In our practice, we support people in reducing or eliminating their chronic pain, chronic symptoms, depression, anxiety, or trauma symptoms. We know dealing with chronic pain, symptoms, and mental health concerns is really difficult, and often we don't see a path forward towards healing. We ensure that each client we see is provided with treatment that best matches who they are and what their concerns are. Our therapists are friendly, caring, and relatable.
Collectively, our team utilizes the following approaches: Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Radical Exposure Tapping, and Narrative Therapy.
In our practice, we support people in reducing or eliminating their chronic pain, chronic symptoms, depression, anxiety, or trauma symptoms. We know dealing with chronic pain, symptoms, and mental health concerns is really difficult, and often we don't see a path forward towards healing. We ensure that each client we see is provided with treatment that best matches who they are and what their concerns are. Our therapists are friendly, caring, and relatable.
(587) 412-1627 View (587) 412-1627
Photo of Dr. Kendra Macleod, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Kendra Macleod
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2R
I specialize in working with youth, children and families in the areas of medical and sport psychology. I'm a Registered Psychologist who has a PhD in Child Clinical Psychology. Over the last seven years, I've worked at a pediatric hospital and strive for effective, empowering, and evidence based treatment. I use a Biopsychosocial approach to help facilitate optimal psychological, physiological and autonomic functioning and often collaborate with other medical professionals. I primarily focus on treating medical anxiety/trauma (e.g., fear of needles/dentists), body symptoms/ pain (e.g. abdominal pain or dizziness), rehabilitation from injury, enhancing sport performance, and coping with illness.
I specialize in working with youth, children and families in the areas of medical and sport psychology. I'm a Registered Psychologist who has a PhD in Child Clinical Psychology. Over the last seven years, I've worked at a pediatric hospital and strive for effective, empowering, and evidence based treatment. I use a Biopsychosocial approach to help facilitate optimal psychological, physiological and autonomic functioning and often collaborate with other medical professionals. I primarily focus on treating medical anxiety/trauma (e.g., fear of needles/dentists), body symptoms/ pain (e.g. abdominal pain or dizziness), rehabilitation from injury, enhancing sport performance, and coping with illness.
(587) 802-3478 View (587) 802-3478
Photo of Joelle Osowski, RPsych, Psychologist
Joelle Osowski
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2X
This experience in conjunction with my training/background in injury rehabilitation, trauma, and pain management affords me a unique understanding of the complex nature between the body and the mind.
The process of dealing with a motor vehicle accident, head injury (mTBI), or sports injury can be life changing. The impact of a traumatic event can filters into every part of a person’s life. Support in processing and integrating an experience like this is possible and can be transformative. My background in the areas of injury rehabilitation, PTSD/trauma, concussion care, chronic pain management, and sport psychology, forms the base of my counselling/clinical work with clients. Together we will work through the emotional trauma caused by mTBI, PTSD, and the emotional distress caused by these injuries. It’s time to START LIVING!
This experience in conjunction with my training/background in injury rehabilitation, trauma, and pain management affords me a unique understanding of the complex nature between the body and the mind.
The process of dealing with a motor vehicle accident, head injury (mTBI), or sports injury can be life changing. The impact of a traumatic event can filters into every part of a person’s life. Support in processing and integrating an experience like this is possible and can be transformative. My background in the areas of injury rehabilitation, PTSD/trauma, concussion care, chronic pain management, and sport psychology, forms the base of my counselling/clinical work with clients. Together we will work through the emotional trauma caused by mTBI, PTSD, and the emotional distress caused by these injuries. It’s time to START LIVING!
(587) 606-0425 View (587) 606-0425
Photo of Mollie Schodorf, PsyD, RPsych, Psychologist
Mollie Schodorf
Psychologist, PsyD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3B
I have extensive training and experience in health psychology and pain management.
I work with adult clients to improve the connection between physical and emotional health. Are you struggling with stress, health issues, or pain? Or perhaps the demands of juggling work, family, and everything else life has to offer is impacting your health and well-being? My goal is to help you gain awareness into the relationship between stress and health, and the tools to improve your quality of life.
I have extensive training and experience in health psychology and pain management.
I work with adult clients to improve the connection between physical and emotional health. Are you struggling with stress, health issues, or pain? Or perhaps the demands of juggling work, family, and everything else life has to offer is impacting your health and well-being? My goal is to help you gain awareness into the relationship between stress and health, and the tools to improve your quality of life.
(587) 848-4274 View (587) 848-4274
Photo of Diana Gudim, MSCP, RPsych, Psychologist
Diana Gudim
Psychologist, MSCP, RPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
Margaret Caudill"s proven Pain Management Program to support my work with folks managing chronic pain/ illness.
I help couples with difficulties in their relationships including emotional connection, intimacy, infidelity, blended family, and communication challenges. I also work with folks dealing with chronic pain and/or illness, trauma and/or abuse, and with the disabling challenges of anxiety and depression. Using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Dr. Janina Fisher Trauma Therapy, Level 3 Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy, I offer practical solutions and experiential learning, along with proven skills within a compassionate and respectful setting.
Margaret Caudill"s proven Pain Management Program to support my work with folks managing chronic pain/ illness.
I help couples with difficulties in their relationships including emotional connection, intimacy, infidelity, blended family, and communication challenges. I also work with folks dealing with chronic pain and/or illness, trauma and/or abuse, and with the disabling challenges of anxiety and depression. Using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Dr. Janina Fisher Trauma Therapy, Level 3 Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy, I offer practical solutions and experiential learning, along with proven skills within a compassionate and respectful setting.
(866) 451-3615 View (866) 451-3615
Photo of Tonia Anderson, MC, BPE, Psychologist
Tonia Anderson
Psychologist, MC, BPE
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3G
I specialize in health and performance psychology including sport psychology, injury & surgery recovery, chronic pain, pain management, chronic conditions (including long Covid), trauma processing, EMDR, anxiety, and counselling for children & youth.
I enjoy working with a diverse clientele looking to achieve their best health, wellness, and performance outcomes with an approach that includes both coping strategies and prevention. Some clients are looking to take charge of their health and not getting answers in the current healthcare system. I work with athletes of all ages looking to develop a champion mindset, reach the podium, and overcome performance anxiety. When individuals are faced with injury or surgery, we collaborate to speed up recovery times, promote healing, and help them overcome mental roadblocks.
I specialize in health and performance psychology including sport psychology, injury & surgery recovery, chronic pain, pain management, chronic conditions (including long Covid), trauma processing, EMDR, anxiety, and counselling for children & youth.
I enjoy working with a diverse clientele looking to achieve their best health, wellness, and performance outcomes with an approach that includes both coping strategies and prevention. Some clients are looking to take charge of their health and not getting answers in the current healthcare system. I work with athletes of all ages looking to develop a champion mindset, reach the podium, and overcome performance anxiety. When individuals are faced with injury or surgery, we collaborate to speed up recovery times, promote healing, and help them overcome mental roadblocks.
(825) 601-5577 View (825) 601-5577
Photo of Cara Stapleton - LifeSmart Counselling Inc, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LifeSmart Counselling Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2N  (Online Only)
Struggles can create a sense of frustration, isolation or self-limiting beliefs. Perhaps you're afraid to speak them aloud, are fearful of judgement or feel alone. My hope is to support you in a caring and non-judgemental manner as we work together to navigate these issues and come up with a plan that suits you. I have experience in many area of focus with advanced experience in substance use, mental health concerns or diagnoses, chronic pain and relationship difficulties.
Struggles can create a sense of frustration, isolation or self-limiting beliefs. Perhaps you're afraid to speak them aloud, are fearful of judgement or feel alone. My hope is to support you in a caring and non-judgemental manner as we work together to navigate these issues and come up with a plan that suits you. I have experience in many area of focus with advanced experience in substance use, mental health concerns or diagnoses, chronic pain and relationship difficulties.
(587) 604-6257 View (587) 604-6257
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Chronic Pain Counsellors

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophising, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.