Chronic Pain Therapists in Kelowna, BC

Photo of Judy Colpitts, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Judy Colpitts
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Do you feel frustrated or worried more than you do happy and satisfied? Are you having difficulty managing hard times such as illness, workplace stress, loss or troubles with relationships? Or perhaps you know something is wrong, but not sure what it is? Then there is something that you need and the trick is to figure out what it is. I have over 30 years helping people figure out what 'it' is, and get their lives back on track, enjoying happier, more fulfilling lives. Together we will find the solutions that will help you move forward to feel better and enjoy a life you love living.
Do you feel frustrated or worried more than you do happy and satisfied? Are you having difficulty managing hard times such as illness, workplace stress, loss or troubles with relationships? Or perhaps you know something is wrong, but not sure what it is? Then there is something that you need and the trick is to figure out what it is. I have over 30 years helping people figure out what 'it' is, and get their lives back on track, enjoying happier, more fulfilling lives. Together we will find the solutions that will help you move forward to feel better and enjoy a life you love living.
(866) 385-0781 View (866) 385-0781
Photo of Carla Friesen - Carla Friesen Counselling, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Carla Friesen Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
My areas of interest include chronic pain, anxiety, parenting, relationships, stress management, and supporting children, teens, adults, and seniors through their struggles.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Trying to manage chronic pain/ illness and not really participating in life? Overwhelmed with parenting? Is your child struggling and needing support? My name is Carla and I am here to listen, understand, and partner with you to create change. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), as well as a former teacher and school counsellor.
My areas of interest include chronic pain, anxiety, parenting, relationships, stress management, and supporting children, teens, adults, and seniors through their struggles.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Trying to manage chronic pain/ illness and not really participating in life? Overwhelmed with parenting? Is your child struggling and needing support? My name is Carla and I am here to listen, understand, and partner with you to create change. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), as well as a former teacher and school counsellor.
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Photo of Terri-Lynn Kent, MSW, RSW, RCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terri-Lynn Kent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Hello! My name is Terri-Lynn and I would welcome the opportunity to offer you support and guidance as you navigate your current challenges. I will strive to create a safe, relaxed and healing space for you to tell your story and to collaborate with you towards the development of strategies to reach your goals. To assist you with this therapeutic process, I will draw upon my 20+ years of clinical experience in health care, having worked closely with individuals and families living with dementia, cancer, persistent pain, developmental disabilities, conflict, stress, loss, anxiety, depression, and marital separation.
Hello! My name is Terri-Lynn and I would welcome the opportunity to offer you support and guidance as you navigate your current challenges. I will strive to create a safe, relaxed and healing space for you to tell your story and to collaborate with you towards the development of strategies to reach your goals. To assist you with this therapeutic process, I will draw upon my 20+ years of clinical experience in health care, having worked closely with individuals and families living with dementia, cancer, persistent pain, developmental disabilities, conflict, stress, loss, anxiety, depression, and marital separation.
(778) 477-0066 View (778) 477-0066
Photo of Tanya Wishlove, MTC, SEP, Counsellor
Tanya Wishlove
Counsellor, MTC, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Are you ready to heal? Physical pain, anxiety and depression associated with trauma/overwhelming experiences can be compounded by frustration and hopelessness when telling our story doesn't bring relief. After trauma, we can remain seemingly stable for many years until the body's management strategies begin to falter, as the nervous system reaches it's capacity to cope. Trauma has often been misunderstood by doctors and therapists alike, overlooked or dismissed as a key factor in our overall health. Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a highly specialized therapy that effectively treats trauma, supporting healing where the rupture has occurred - in the nervous system.
Are you ready to heal? Physical pain, anxiety and depression associated with trauma/overwhelming experiences can be compounded by frustration and hopelessness when telling our story doesn't bring relief. After trauma, we can remain seemingly stable for many years until the body's management strategies begin to falter, as the nervous system reaches it's capacity to cope. Trauma has often been misunderstood by doctors and therapists alike, overlooked or dismissed as a key factor in our overall health. Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a highly specialized therapy that effectively treats trauma, supporting healing where the rupture has occurred - in the nervous system.
(855) 908-4252 View (855) 908-4252
Photo of Jenn Medwedew, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Jenn Medwedew
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Waitlist for new clients
I am also certified in Pain Reprocessing Therapy for chronic pain.
Approximately 2-3 month waitlist. Are you looking to make a positive change in your life towards mental health and wellness? I have a passion and great respect for the uniqueness and individuality of each client. I trust in your ability to heal and I am honoured to be a witness and guide in this process - the real work occurs within you. I have a gentle and calm nature but am skilled at compassionately challenging you towards growth and change. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (Level II), and I also bring depth to the counselling room with over 15 years of experience in health care as a Registered Pharmacist.
I am also certified in Pain Reprocessing Therapy for chronic pain.
Approximately 2-3 month waitlist. Are you looking to make a positive change in your life towards mental health and wellness? I have a passion and great respect for the uniqueness and individuality of each client. I trust in your ability to heal and I am honoured to be a witness and guide in this process - the real work occurs within you. I have a gentle and calm nature but am skilled at compassionately challenging you towards growth and change. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (Level II), and I also bring depth to the counselling room with over 15 years of experience in health care as a Registered Pharmacist.
(604) 706-1615 View (604) 706-1615
Photo of Hilary Ison, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Hilary Ison
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1V
Hello! If you're here, you might be struggling with repeating patterns of behaviour, past traumas, a diminished sense of self, difficult relationships, or painful emotions. Despite the pain of feeling stuck or hopeless, change is possible, especially with the right support. Together we can establish safety and harness your inherent capacity to heal and grow. I love my work and am a true therapy nerd. I have worked in many settings including substance use, homelessness, acute care, and LGBTQ+ resources, so your story will be safe with me. I take an active role in session - passive is not my style.
Hello! If you're here, you might be struggling with repeating patterns of behaviour, past traumas, a diminished sense of self, difficult relationships, or painful emotions. Despite the pain of feeling stuck or hopeless, change is possible, especially with the right support. Together we can establish safety and harness your inherent capacity to heal and grow. I love my work and am a true therapy nerd. I have worked in many settings including substance use, homelessness, acute care, and LGBTQ+ resources, so your story will be safe with me. I take an active role in session - passive is not my style.
(709) 700-3442 View (709) 700-3442
Photo of Christine Selder, MEd, RCC, SEP, Counsellor
Christine Selder
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Z  (Online Only)
I work with individuals across the lifespan, from adolescents to mature adults, who are managing issues such as trauma, illness (including chronic and complex illness), relationships, anxiety, sensory sensitivities, and the full range of nervous system expressions of dysregulation. I guide people on the journey of discovering the wisdom of their bodies and its impetus to find regulation and wellness. We use physiological cues and clues to guide the session along with dialogue, imagery and at times movement. We take pieces in a paced and tolerable way to build capacity and safety within the context of change.
I work with individuals across the lifespan, from adolescents to mature adults, who are managing issues such as trauma, illness (including chronic and complex illness), relationships, anxiety, sensory sensitivities, and the full range of nervous system expressions of dysregulation. I guide people on the journey of discovering the wisdom of their bodies and its impetus to find regulation and wellness. We use physiological cues and clues to guide the session along with dialogue, imagery and at times movement. We take pieces in a paced and tolerable way to build capacity and safety within the context of change.
(587) 417-6477 View (587) 417-6477
Photo of Bronwyn von Niessen - Inner Balance; Bronwyn von Niessen, RCC, CCC, CHT, Counsellor
Inner Balance; Bronwyn von Niessen
Counsellor, RCC, CCC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
It is a helpful treatment for ADHD, chronic pain, concussions & TBIs, anxiety, autoimmune diseases, depression, mood disorders, and much more.
Hi! My name is Bronwyn. I'm a psychotherapist, hypnotherapist, and energy healer. I am trained and certified in a range of therapies from science-backed neurotherapies to traditional energetic and metaphysical healing practices. In-office, and virtual options available. Home visits may also be approved.
It is a helpful treatment for ADHD, chronic pain, concussions & TBIs, anxiety, autoimmune diseases, depression, mood disorders, and much more.
Hi! My name is Bronwyn. I'm a psychotherapist, hypnotherapist, and energy healer. I am trained and certified in a range of therapies from science-backed neurotherapies to traditional energetic and metaphysical healing practices. In-office, and virtual options available. Home visits may also be approved.
(506) 804-9607 View (506) 804-9607
Photo of Jocelyn Watson, MSW, RSW, RCC, Registered Social Worker
Jocelyn Watson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Waitlist for new clients
Are you seeking support for religious trauma, complex trauma, your relationship with food and body, or scrupulosity OCD? Emotional, physical and spiritual pain can leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves, others, and the world around us. These disconnections can make it difficult to manage in our daily lives - let alone find support. However, I believe that therapy is one of the ways that we can begin the process of re-connecting with our selves, bodies, and communities. In our work together, I will seek to provide an openness that meets you where you’re at with empathy and non-judgement.
Are you seeking support for religious trauma, complex trauma, your relationship with food and body, or scrupulosity OCD? Emotional, physical and spiritual pain can leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves, others, and the world around us. These disconnections can make it difficult to manage in our daily lives - let alone find support. However, I believe that therapy is one of the ways that we can begin the process of re-connecting with our selves, bodies, and communities. In our work together, I will seek to provide an openness that meets you where you’re at with empathy and non-judgement.
(587) 871-8396 View (587) 871-8396
Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y  (Online Only)
We have combined our extensive professional experience with lessons learned from our own personal healing so we are capable of recognizing the depth of pain our clients experience.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We have combined our extensive professional experience with lessons learned from our own personal healing so we are capable of recognizing the depth of pain our clients experience.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(873) 363-1012 View (873) 363-1012
Photo of Jessica Hughes, RPC, CEPC, Counsellor
Jessica Hughes
Counsellor, RPC, CEPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1P
I specialize in life transitions, personal/spiritual growth, chronic illness, end of life, grief & loss and holistic health and wellness lifestyle practices.
Are you tired of being stuck? Tired of beating yourself up? Board with the same old strategies that don't work? Are you ready for change? Many people experience times in their lives when they begin to feel overwhelmed and have difficulty coping. Feelings of shame, fear, loneliness, anger and hurt can have us feeling trapped and like we will never be okay. Counselling can often help people to transition to a place of balance, where they are much better able to cope, and not feel as overwhelmed. Not only will they be better able to cope, they can develop strategies that can make their lives more manageable and balanced in the future.
I specialize in life transitions, personal/spiritual growth, chronic illness, end of life, grief & loss and holistic health and wellness lifestyle practices.
Are you tired of being stuck? Tired of beating yourself up? Board with the same old strategies that don't work? Are you ready for change? Many people experience times in their lives when they begin to feel overwhelmed and have difficulty coping. Feelings of shame, fear, loneliness, anger and hurt can have us feeling trapped and like we will never be okay. Counselling can often help people to transition to a place of balance, where they are much better able to cope, and not feel as overwhelmed. Not only will they be better able to cope, they can develop strategies that can make their lives more manageable and balanced in the future.
(289) 216-5729 View (289) 216-5729
Photo of Chantale Elliott, RTC, CCATP, Counsellor
Chantale Elliott
Counsellor, RTC, CCATP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
My goal is to help people journey towards a better quality of life despite chronic illness, fatigue, pain, or disability.
Do you struggle with anxiety, chronic illness, pain, or grief that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, and ability to find balance? Do you feel exhausted by the challenges of managing mental health or overwhelmed by the pressure to meet other's standards? Do you hope for a better, more integrated approach to your well-being? Now more than ever, individuals seeking a holistic approach to health and mental wellness are feeling uncertain about overcoming personal challenges. I believe that living better shouldn't be so hard, change is possible, and there's hope and answers.
My goal is to help people journey towards a better quality of life despite chronic illness, fatigue, pain, or disability.
Do you struggle with anxiety, chronic illness, pain, or grief that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, and ability to find balance? Do you feel exhausted by the challenges of managing mental health or overwhelmed by the pressure to meet other's standards? Do you hope for a better, more integrated approach to your well-being? Now more than ever, individuals seeking a holistic approach to health and mental wellness are feeling uncertain about overcoming personal challenges. I believe that living better shouldn't be so hard, change is possible, and there's hope and answers.
(604) 706-1907 View (604) 706-1907
Photo of Jess Holtslander, MSW, RSW, RCC, Counsellor
Jess Holtslander
Counsellor, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Waitlist for new clients
If you are looking for space to share your story, your pain, and your loss(es); time to acknowledge pain and loss while discovering different ways of moving through grief; tools to help process and see experiences, losses, and relationships in a new way; and support to find hope, purpose, meaning, and joy in life again — I encourage you to reach out!.
I am a Registered Social Worker, Registered Clinical Counsellor, and Grief Recovery Specialist, passionate about helping individuals navigate their grief journey as well as supporting individuals who are neurodivergent. I work with people who have a suspected, recent, or late diagnosis of Autism/ADHD; have a partner/a child who is Autistic/ADHD; are grieving for various reasons (e.g., life change, chronic pain, loss of a loved one); and/or want to become more comfortable with their uncomfortable emotions.
If you are looking for space to share your story, your pain, and your loss(es); time to acknowledge pain and loss while discovering different ways of moving through grief; tools to help process and see experiences, losses, and relationships in a new way; and support to find hope, purpose, meaning, and joy in life again — I encourage you to reach out!.
I am a Registered Social Worker, Registered Clinical Counsellor, and Grief Recovery Specialist, passionate about helping individuals navigate their grief journey as well as supporting individuals who are neurodivergent. I work with people who have a suspected, recent, or late diagnosis of Autism/ADHD; have a partner/a child who is Autistic/ADHD; are grieving for various reasons (e.g., life change, chronic pain, loss of a loved one); and/or want to become more comfortable with their uncomfortable emotions.
(902) 517-0195 View (902) 517-0195
Photo of Ashley Phillips, MEd, CCC, Counsellor
Ashley Phillips
Counsellor, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Waitlist for new clients
Life is filled with ups and downs. I can help you manage stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders / disordered eating including binge eating, emotional / overeating, and unhealthy relationships with food, body image issues, and coping with chronic Illness.
Life is filled with ups and downs. I can help you manage stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders / disordered eating including binge eating, emotional / overeating, and unhealthy relationships with food, body image issues, and coping with chronic Illness.
(855) 510-2175 View (855) 510-2175
Photo of Avril Paice, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Avril Paice
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1X
My clients want a safe place where they will be deeply heard, understood, and validated. Many of my clients had childhoods that were lacking in nurturing. I support adults who are dealing with issues such as self-care and worthiness struggles, unresolved emotional wounds, body acceptance and battles with diet culture, chronic illness/ pain, disability, work stress, anxiety, depression, relationship/family conflict, and grief/loss. Come enjoy a complimentary beverage, unload what weighs on your heart, and leave feeling supported, lighter, and more hopeful.
My clients want a safe place where they will be deeply heard, understood, and validated. Many of my clients had childhoods that were lacking in nurturing. I support adults who are dealing with issues such as self-care and worthiness struggles, unresolved emotional wounds, body acceptance and battles with diet culture, chronic illness/ pain, disability, work stress, anxiety, depression, relationship/family conflict, and grief/loss. Come enjoy a complimentary beverage, unload what weighs on your heart, and leave feeling supported, lighter, and more hopeful.
(604) 210-3860 View (604) 210-3860
Photo of Tanis Burnett - Rehabilitation + Chronic Pain Specialization, MC, CVRP, Counsellor
Tanis Burnett - Rehabilitation + Chronic Pain Specialization
Counsellor, MC, CVRP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I have experienced firsthand the emotional toll that unexpected life events can take and the limitations that come with chronic pain.
Are you seeking support after you've been injured or newly diagnosed with a chronic condition? Recovery can feel overwhelming when things don't go as planned, or chronic pain starts to interfere with your life. You may feel isolated, discouraged, or uncertain about how to move forward. As a clinical counsellor with a background in kinesiology, I understand the unique challenges of physical and emotional recovery. My approach emphasizes the mind-body connection to support holistic healing. Together, we can work toward restoring a sense of control, purpose, and fulfillment in your life.
I have experienced firsthand the emotional toll that unexpected life events can take and the limitations that come with chronic pain.
Are you seeking support after you've been injured or newly diagnosed with a chronic condition? Recovery can feel overwhelming when things don't go as planned, or chronic pain starts to interfere with your life. You may feel isolated, discouraged, or uncertain about how to move forward. As a clinical counsellor with a background in kinesiology, I understand the unique challenges of physical and emotional recovery. My approach emphasizes the mind-body connection to support holistic healing. Together, we can work toward restoring a sense of control, purpose, and fulfillment in your life.
(250) 899-2400 View (250) 899-2400
Photo of Dawn Clarke, RTC, SEP, Counsellor
Dawn Clarke
Counsellor, RTC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Life events that are overwhelming to our systems such as car accidents, relationship ruptures, grief, and transitions can appear as depression, anxiety, and chronic pain.
How are you navigating these challenging times? Are you ready to gently shift through depression, anxiety, trauma, and relational difficulty? Are you motivated to become more regulated, connected, and centered? My approach is to hold a healing space that is compassionate, safe, experiential, and collaborative. My focus is to gently guide my clients towards a renewed sense of aliveness and to restore clarity, wholeness, and hope. I also help couples and individuals work to improve their communication, boundaries, and resilience. I also support those dealing with the intense feelings of betrayal trauma, separation and divorce.
Life events that are overwhelming to our systems such as car accidents, relationship ruptures, grief, and transitions can appear as depression, anxiety, and chronic pain.
How are you navigating these challenging times? Are you ready to gently shift through depression, anxiety, trauma, and relational difficulty? Are you motivated to become more regulated, connected, and centered? My approach is to hold a healing space that is compassionate, safe, experiential, and collaborative. My focus is to gently guide my clients towards a renewed sense of aliveness and to restore clarity, wholeness, and hope. I also help couples and individuals work to improve their communication, boundaries, and resilience. I also support those dealing with the intense feelings of betrayal trauma, separation and divorce.
(855) 969-4284 View (855) 969-4284
Photo of Nicholle Miller - Evergreen Counselling Group, Pre-Licensed Professional
Evergreen Counselling Group
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Hello, I'm Nicholle Miller, a counsellor in training with experience working with people who face a variety of challenges in life, including low self-esteem, anger, grief, trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and problems in relationships and families.
Hello, I'm Nicholle Miller, a counsellor in training with experience working with people who face a variety of challenges in life, including low self-esteem, anger, grief, trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and problems in relationships and families.
(548) 290-8876 View (548) 290-8876
Photo of Kristin Martina Kowalko - Noke' Counselling , MSW, RSW, RCC, Registered Social Worker
Noke' Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y  (Online Only)
Hi I'm Kristin! I have over ten years experience in walking alongside individuals who are going through difficulties, whether mentally, emotionally, physically, or spiritually. I have had the privilege of supporting individuals on their path with depression, anxiety, (inter-generational) trauma, grief, chronic illness/ pain, life transitions, and identity concerns. My perspective is that you are the expert of your own life and together we can create a safe space to explore your inner knowing and path forward.
Hi I'm Kristin! I have over ten years experience in walking alongside individuals who are going through difficulties, whether mentally, emotionally, physically, or spiritually. I have had the privilege of supporting individuals on their path with depression, anxiety, (inter-generational) trauma, grief, chronic illness/ pain, life transitions, and identity concerns. My perspective is that you are the expert of your own life and together we can create a safe space to explore your inner knowing and path forward.
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Photo of Samantha Robinson, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Samantha Robinson
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
My areas of specialization include: complex trauma, abuse (emotional, psychological, verbal, physical, spiritual), domestic violence, codependency, anxiety, panic, chronic pain, mood dysregulation, depression, self-harm, suicidality, anger, irritability, eating disorders, shame, body acceptance, grief, addictive behaviors, boundaries and personal growth.
Living through traumatic experiences can be debilitating, leaving us with the feeling of being stuck, isolated, and helpless. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor, my role is to empower individuals to take a proactive role in their healing process, regain control and heal from the inside-out. I hold specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness-Based Somatic Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy - providing flexibility to pull from a variety of therapeutic techniques to effectively support each individual client in meeting their unique therapy needs.
My areas of specialization include: complex trauma, abuse (emotional, psychological, verbal, physical, spiritual), domestic violence, codependency, anxiety, panic, chronic pain, mood dysregulation, depression, self-harm, suicidality, anger, irritability, eating disorders, shame, body acceptance, grief, addictive behaviors, boundaries and personal growth.
Living through traumatic experiences can be debilitating, leaving us with the feeling of being stuck, isolated, and helpless. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor, my role is to empower individuals to take a proactive role in their healing process, regain control and heal from the inside-out. I hold specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness-Based Somatic Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy - providing flexibility to pull from a variety of therapeutic techniques to effectively support each individual client in meeting their unique therapy needs.
(604) 265-5844 View (604) 265-5844
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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.