Chronic Illness Therapists in Salmon ARM, BC

Photo of Valerie Dessaulles, MA, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Valerie Dessaulles
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salmon ARM, BC V1E
My name is Valerie Dessaulles and I am a registered clinical counsellor (RCC). I have over ten years in the helping profession initially as a paramedic and now as a counsellor. Trauma comes in many forms and presents in different ways; it can be difficult to pinpoint what caused symptoms or even what they may be. The first step is to acknowledge that you are not feeling yourself and that you want help to get your life back together. It would be my pleasure to walk alongside you as we navigate this new territory and figure out what you need from counselling. It can be really hard to reach out, but know that you set the pace.
My name is Valerie Dessaulles and I am a registered clinical counsellor (RCC). I have over ten years in the helping profession initially as a paramedic and now as a counsellor. Trauma comes in many forms and presents in different ways; it can be difficult to pinpoint what caused symptoms or even what they may be. The first step is to acknowledge that you are not feeling yourself and that you want help to get your life back together. It would be my pleasure to walk alongside you as we navigate this new territory and figure out what you need from counselling. It can be really hard to reach out, but know that you set the pace.
(873) 363-1244 View (873) 363-1244
Photo of Joanna L Johnson, MA, CCC, RCC, Counsellor
Joanna L Johnson
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCC
Verified Verified
Salmon ARM, BC V1E
We are hard-wired for attachment, born into families and yearn for connection, yet our relationships can sometimes be incredibly challenging. How do we navigate so that we can feel intact within ourselves while at the same time, feel healthy and connected in our relationships? This is the type of work that I love to help clients with. Counselling and psychotherapy can offer you a safe, non-judgemental space where you can figure out what is getting in the way in your relationships and why. It can help you gain insight, resource current and new strengths, build skills, and increase your capacity for connection.
We are hard-wired for attachment, born into families and yearn for connection, yet our relationships can sometimes be incredibly challenging. How do we navigate so that we can feel intact within ourselves while at the same time, feel healthy and connected in our relationships? This is the type of work that I love to help clients with. Counselling and psychotherapy can offer you a safe, non-judgemental space where you can figure out what is getting in the way in your relationships and why. It can help you gain insight, resource current and new strengths, build skills, and increase your capacity for connection.
(579) 589-5531 View (579) 589-5531
Photo of Caroline Miege - Caroline Miege Counselling, MEd, BSW, CCC, RSW, Counsellor
Caroline Miege Counselling
Counsellor, MEd, BSW, CCC, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salmon ARM, BC V1E
I bring my over 30 years of experience with counselling to you, offering culturally safe, trauma informed and evidence based treatments. We will build on your skills and strengths, working together and drawing from community to obtain the results you want from counselling. I am influenced by a number of therapeutic modalities, but my approach is based on being person-centered, meaning that I strive to understand the client’s point of view, and create a relationship that is caring, genuine and non-judgmental.Other modalities that I draw from are: compassion-focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, DBT and CBT informed.
I bring my over 30 years of experience with counselling to you, offering culturally safe, trauma informed and evidence based treatments. We will build on your skills and strengths, working together and drawing from community to obtain the results you want from counselling. I am influenced by a number of therapeutic modalities, but my approach is based on being person-centered, meaning that I strive to understand the client’s point of view, and create a relationship that is caring, genuine and non-judgmental.Other modalities that I draw from are: compassion-focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, DBT and CBT informed.
(431) 532-5603 View (431) 532-5603
Photo of Tammy S Thielman, BSW , MSW , RSW, EMDR-CT, PRO-EFW, Registered Social Worker
Tammy S Thielman
Registered Social Worker, BSW , MSW , RSW, EMDR-CT, PRO-EFW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Salmon ARM, BC V1E
Come to the counselling cabin on my peaceful mountain farm to experience specialized trauma treatment & counselling for: children 3+, adults, families, First Responders, parents. I am trained & experienced in equine & animal-assisted therapy, child-centered play therapy, EMDR for adults & experiential, sensory Playful EMDR for children. I specialize in working with children living with ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioural disorders, history of abuse/complex family systems: adoption, foster care, blended families, divorce/separation. The counselling cabin and eco-therapy program area features walking trails & mountain views.
Come to the counselling cabin on my peaceful mountain farm to experience specialized trauma treatment & counselling for: children 3+, adults, families, First Responders, parents. I am trained & experienced in equine & animal-assisted therapy, child-centered play therapy, EMDR for adults & experiential, sensory Playful EMDR for children. I specialize in working with children living with ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioural disorders, history of abuse/complex family systems: adoption, foster care, blended families, divorce/separation. The counselling cabin and eco-therapy program area features walking trails & mountain views.
(778) 766-5438 View (778) 766-5438
Photo of Sarah Coyle, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Sarah Coyle
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Salmon ARM, BC V1E  (Online Only)
Many people have had a life full of moments: good, bad, ugly, and somewhere in the mediocre middle. You are here because some of those experiences have left you feeling overwhelmed. Maybe you can’t make sense of the emotions that you’re wrestling with. Perhaps you're constantly treading water and afraid that you're going to drown. If you are looking for a life raft, maybe counseling is it. I have worked with folks from all walks of life - including families who may have had interactions with the criminal justice system. If you are nervous to talk about some of the big things in your life, reach out.
Many people have had a life full of moments: good, bad, ugly, and somewhere in the mediocre middle. You are here because some of those experiences have left you feeling overwhelmed. Maybe you can’t make sense of the emotions that you’re wrestling with. Perhaps you're constantly treading water and afraid that you're going to drown. If you are looking for a life raft, maybe counseling is it. I have worked with folks from all walks of life - including families who may have had interactions with the criminal justice system. If you are nervous to talk about some of the big things in your life, reach out.
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Photo of Kasha Mitton, BSN, RN, MACP , Pre-Licensed Professional
Kasha Mitton
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSN, RN, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salmon ARM, BC V1E
Clients seeking support often present feeling overwhelmed by life’s complexities, whether that stems from grief, trauma, or major life transitions. They might be experiencing the weight of intergenerational trauma, acculturative stress, or grappling with a sense of existential loss. Perhaps they are searching for ways to process emotional pain, find healing, or reconnect with their sense of purpose. My clients often seek a safe, non-judgmental space to explore these emotions, gain clarity, and cultivate resilience. They aim to feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth and well-being journey.
Clients seeking support often present feeling overwhelmed by life’s complexities, whether that stems from grief, trauma, or major life transitions. They might be experiencing the weight of intergenerational trauma, acculturative stress, or grappling with a sense of existential loss. Perhaps they are searching for ways to process emotional pain, find healing, or reconnect with their sense of purpose. My clients often seek a safe, non-judgmental space to explore these emotions, gain clarity, and cultivate resilience. They aim to feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth and well-being journey.
(431) 340-7219 View (431) 340-7219
Photo of Lorna Williams, BPE, BEd, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Lorna Williams
Counsellor, BPE, BEd, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Salmon ARM, BC V1E
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a licensed private practice based in Kamloops, B.C., offering counselling services for youth, adults, couples and families. Areas of practice include, marital/relationship difficulties (communication and trust), relationship therapy for families, parenting concerns, life transitions, anxiety/panic disorder, trauma, depression, substance use, disturbing thoughts, and adolescence concerns of self-harm, peer relations, sexuality, self-esteem and parent/teen conflict.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a licensed private practice based in Kamloops, B.C., offering counselling services for youth, adults, couples and families. Areas of practice include, marital/relationship difficulties (communication and trust), relationship therapy for families, parenting concerns, life transitions, anxiety/panic disorder, trauma, depression, substance use, disturbing thoughts, and adolescence concerns of self-harm, peer relations, sexuality, self-esteem and parent/teen conflict.
(877) 470-7951 View (877) 470-7951
Photo of Jennifer Wright - Columbia River Counselling and Neurofeedback, MSc, CMHC, RCC, Counsellor
Columbia River Counselling and Neurofeedback
Counsellor, MSc, CMHC, RCC
Verified Verified
Salmon ARM, BC V1E
I have a Masters degree of Science in Mental Health Counselling and am registered with the BBCACC as a RCC. I am certified in traumatic stress studies, Neurofeedback, & HeartMath Biofeedback. I have completed basic (EMDR) training and advanced training in EMDR for suicidal clients and self-harming behaviours as well as complex PTSD and dissociative disorders. I employ evidenced based modalities such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma focused sensorimotor psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, and Neurofeedback. In my practice there are two counsellors, two neurofeedback technicians and a therapy dog (St. Bernard).
I have a Masters degree of Science in Mental Health Counselling and am registered with the BBCACC as a RCC. I am certified in traumatic stress studies, Neurofeedback, & HeartMath Biofeedback. I have completed basic (EMDR) training and advanced training in EMDR for suicidal clients and self-harming behaviours as well as complex PTSD and dissociative disorders. I employ evidenced based modalities such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma focused sensorimotor psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, and Neurofeedback. In my practice there are two counsellors, two neurofeedback technicians and a therapy dog (St. Bernard).
(778) 200-2419 View (778) 200-2419
Photo of Kelly-Ann Scott, MSc, PGDip, RPCc, Counsellor
Kelly-Ann Scott
Counsellor, MSc, PGDip, RPCc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salmon ARM, BC V1E
After many years of working in healthcare and education in the U.K., the Netherlands and Canada, I realized that I wanted to help others more directly. I wanted to create a safe, understanding, caring, non-judgemental space for people to share their mental health journey with me. I have developed the skills and knowledge, through education at KCPC and through work with the Canadian Mental Health Association and as a BouncBack coach, to use an integrative approach to counselling to guide and support people to reach their mental health goals. This means that I will work with you to find the best way that works for you!
After many years of working in healthcare and education in the U.K., the Netherlands and Canada, I realized that I wanted to help others more directly. I wanted to create a safe, understanding, caring, non-judgemental space for people to share their mental health journey with me. I have developed the skills and knowledge, through education at KCPC and through work with the Canadian Mental Health Association and as a BouncBack coach, to use an integrative approach to counselling to guide and support people to reach their mental health goals. This means that I will work with you to find the best way that works for you!
(604) 239-5498 View (604) 239-5498
Photo of Hailey Hughes, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Hailey Hughes
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salmon ARM, BC V1E
Have you been looking for a therapist who is down to earth and has the broad experience to understand all the things you are juggling day to day? Are your relationships suffering and you just can't find the time or the right words to set things back on course. Our world has become so fast paced and with so many expectations to be your best self. Sometimes it can feel like a lot. It can get overwhelming very quickly. Sometimes there needs to be a safe space to unload that, process your own goals and repair or strengthen your most valued relationships.
Have you been looking for a therapist who is down to earth and has the broad experience to understand all the things you are juggling day to day? Are your relationships suffering and you just can't find the time or the right words to set things back on course. Our world has become so fast paced and with so many expectations to be your best self. Sometimes it can feel like a lot. It can get overwhelming very quickly. Sometimes there needs to be a safe space to unload that, process your own goals and repair or strengthen your most valued relationships.
(365) 659-2811 View (365) 659-2811

Online Therapists

Photo of Jill Hooiveld, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Hooiveld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2C  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m so glad you’ve taken the first step toward improving your mental health. With extensive experience in the healthcare sector, I specialize in supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, stress management, chronic illness, brain injury, perinatal health, OCD, grief and trauma. My goal as a therapist is to help you create meaningful, positive change in your life. I truly believe that the key to healing and growth is connection, which is why I’m here to support you every step of the way. Feel free to reach out for a free 15-minute consultation—I’d love to connect and explore how I can assist you on your journey.
Hello! I’m so glad you’ve taken the first step toward improving your mental health. With extensive experience in the healthcare sector, I specialize in supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, stress management, chronic illness, brain injury, perinatal health, OCD, grief and trauma. My goal as a therapist is to help you create meaningful, positive change in your life. I truly believe that the key to healing and growth is connection, which is why I’m here to support you every step of the way. Feel free to reach out for a free 15-minute consultation—I’d love to connect and explore how I can assist you on your journey.
(825) 251-8665 View (825) 251-8665
Photo of Alena Naidzenka, PsyM, RCC, CCC, Licensed Professional Counsellor
Alena Naidzenka
Licensed Professional Counsellor, PsyM, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Z  (Online Only)
I consider both top-down (brain retraining) and bottom-up (somatic) evidence-based modalities to help you overcome the effects of stress, trauma, and chronic illness symptoms and come back into balance and health.
My approach to psychotherapy is balanced and holistic, which gets to the root of my clients' chronic stress, depression, overeating, fatigue, anxiety, and nervous system imbalances and aims for their overall wellness. I have a background in wellness and disability management and over a decade of experience working in mental health. In my work, I use trauma-informed, neuroscience-based interventions that go beyond talk therapy. I will teach you to gain a deeper understanding of your nervous system processes, help regulate your emotions and physical reactions, and retrain your brain so it changes its unhelpful responses to stress.
I consider both top-down (brain retraining) and bottom-up (somatic) evidence-based modalities to help you overcome the effects of stress, trauma, and chronic illness symptoms and come back into balance and health.
My approach to psychotherapy is balanced and holistic, which gets to the root of my clients' chronic stress, depression, overeating, fatigue, anxiety, and nervous system imbalances and aims for their overall wellness. I have a background in wellness and disability management and over a decade of experience working in mental health. In my work, I use trauma-informed, neuroscience-based interventions that go beyond talk therapy. I will teach you to gain a deeper understanding of your nervous system processes, help regulate your emotions and physical reactions, and retrain your brain so it changes its unhelpful responses to stress.
(249) 504-2481 View (249) 504-2481
Photo of Willow Burton, BA, MACP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Willow Burton
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MACP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1T
Having navigated my own experiences with grief, trauma, chronic illness, autoimmune disease, and cancer, I offer a deep, compassionate understanding to those facing similar challenges.
I work specialize in relationship concerns, trauma, grief, men’s issues, end-of-life, chronic pain and illness, and stress. With lived experience overcoming significant personal challenges—including weight loss, chronic illness, cancer, chronic pain, grief, and trauma—I bring a unique level of empathy and understanding to my work. Passionate about health and well-being, I integrate sleep, nutrition, and exercise into my approach. I have professional and personal experience in treating trauma, personality disorders, men’s issues, existential concerns, eating disorders and weight concerns (weight inclusive), insomnia, and grief.
Having navigated my own experiences with grief, trauma, chronic illness, autoimmune disease, and cancer, I offer a deep, compassionate understanding to those facing similar challenges.
I work specialize in relationship concerns, trauma, grief, men’s issues, end-of-life, chronic pain and illness, and stress. With lived experience overcoming significant personal challenges—including weight loss, chronic illness, cancer, chronic pain, grief, and trauma—I bring a unique level of empathy and understanding to my work. Passionate about health and well-being, I integrate sleep, nutrition, and exercise into my approach. I have professional and personal experience in treating trauma, personality disorders, men’s issues, existential concerns, eating disorders and weight concerns (weight inclusive), insomnia, and grief.
(506) 990-2077 View (506) 990-2077
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 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 Avril Paice, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Avril Paice
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Amy Hamilton - Amy Hamilton - Core Connections Counselling, MAC, CCC, Counsellor
Amy Hamilton - Core Connections Counselling
Counsellor, MAC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1T
Waitlist for new clients
I have had my own challenges with depression, anxiety, and chronic illness and currently live with ME/CFS.
Life is not always easy. On our paths, we can come across seemingly insurmountable challenges and dark times that appear endless. During these times, one of the toughest challenges is to reach out for help. The truth is, as social beings, humans were never meant to face life's trials and tribulations alone; it is in relationship with others that we are able to uncover our greatest strengths and discover our inner courage. I hope to help you do just that. You are more than you know. The fact that you are here attests to your bravery in taking the next step forward.
I have had my own challenges with depression, anxiety, and chronic illness and currently live with ME/CFS.
Life is not always easy. On our paths, we can come across seemingly insurmountable challenges and dark times that appear endless. During these times, one of the toughest challenges is to reach out for help. The truth is, as social beings, humans were never meant to face life's trials and tribulations alone; it is in relationship with others that we are able to uncover our greatest strengths and discover our inner courage. I hope to help you do just that. You are more than you know. The fact that you are here attests to your bravery in taking the next step forward.
(249) 444-0301 View (249) 444-0301
Photo of Lisa N Calder - Lisa Calder Counselling - Clinical Services, MSW, RSW, RCC, BCRPT, EXAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Calder Counselling - Clinical Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, RCC, BCRPT, EXAT
Verified Verified
Penticton, BC V2A
My areas of specialty are: Promoting Healing from Trauma & Compassion Fatigue; Making Meaning from Grief & Loss; Coping Well with Chronic Illness & Disability; Overcoming Anxiety & Depression; Enhancing Attachment/Communication in Relationships.
My clients are children and adults, individuals, couples, and families interested in obtaining support for healing and growth from trauma, grief, chronic illness, anxiety and depression. I employ clinical and expressive art therapy and traditional methods. I provide support to professional caregivers, front-line workers, and counsellors, via individual counselling, expressive therapy sessions, and training . I also have experience providing clinical supervision for counsellors and social work students. I focus on discovering HOPE and strengths while helping you meet your challenges, whether they are personal, family or work related.
My areas of specialty are: Promoting Healing from Trauma & Compassion Fatigue; Making Meaning from Grief & Loss; Coping Well with Chronic Illness & Disability; Overcoming Anxiety & Depression; Enhancing Attachment/Communication in Relationships.
My clients are children and adults, individuals, couples, and families interested in obtaining support for healing and growth from trauma, grief, chronic illness, anxiety and depression. I employ clinical and expressive art therapy and traditional methods. I provide support to professional caregivers, front-line workers, and counsellors, via individual counselling, expressive therapy sessions, and training . I also have experience providing clinical supervision for counsellors and social work students. I focus on discovering HOPE and strengths while helping you meet your challenges, whether they are personal, family or work related.
(587) 507-4486 View (587) 507-4486
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 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

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Chronic Illness Counsellors

How does therapy for chronic illness work?

Many people living with a chronic illness may feel they cannot speak honestly about their experience out of embarrassment or fear of being a burden, or because those close to them do not understand, for example, that they may “look good” even if they do not feel good. Therapy sessions are an opportunity to speak openly with someone who knows their symptoms are not in their head and who can offer practical, proven suggestions for managing feelings of grief, shame, or fatigue, such as techniques to challenge unhelpful thoughts about symptoms and develop new ways to respond to them, such as distraction or calming breathing practices.

Can therapy help with physical symptoms of chronic illness?

Yes, especially if an individual with chronic illness has developed depression. People with depression are less likely to maintain their health treatment regimens or to take positive steps to manage physical symptoms when they arise, thereby potentially complicating their medical prognosis. Treatment of depression, through talk therapy, medication, or both, will often improve one’s physical state as it eases the emotional burden of illness.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic illness?

No one living with a chronic illness, or their loved ones, should see depression as an unavoidable result of their condition. Instead, they should actively seek treatment. Research shows that people with depression are less likely to devote the required time and effort to maintaining or monitoring their health, and so therapy to limit the risk of depression can be vital for physical health as well. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction have been found to help individuals reduce stress and anxiety.

How long does therapy for chronic illness take?

There is no set timeline for therapy for people living with chronic illnesses, but many will see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 weekly sessions. Some people feel that they experience progress faster than others but even some who quickly feel improvement may continue with sessions for months or years. Some people may benefit from maintenance therapy if their symptoms change or they experience a decline in physical health. Others find that the skills learned in short-term therapy can be used on an ongoing basis, even after therapy has concluded.