Chronic Illness Therapists in Vernon, BC
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.
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.
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.
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.
Megan DeSimone, The Life Balance Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW, MTC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1T
I have a Bachelor and Master's Degree in Social Work from UBC and over 23 years experience helping others with mental health, addictions, and relationship issues in a variety of health care, community and social service settings. When you come in for counselling support, I start by creating a relaxed atmosphere where you feel safe and reassured that you've found someone who can help you truly face the issues you're experiencing. Sometimes, the stress of life can be overwhelming and your world becomes very narrow.
I have a Bachelor and Master's Degree in Social Work from UBC and over 23 years experience helping others with mental health, addictions, and relationship issues in a variety of health care, community and social service settings. When you come in for counselling support, I start by creating a relaxed atmosphere where you feel safe and reassured that you've found someone who can help you truly face the issues you're experiencing. Sometimes, the stress of life can be overwhelming and your world becomes very narrow.
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!
Imagine feeling it in your bones that change is possible. How you relate to yourself, others, and life - can change. I want to work with people who are courageous and fearful and unsure. When we have limiting stories of ourselves it can be helpful to have someone else, a professional, hear us - see us- and want to show another way. I will not look away from your shadow, and I do not fear trauma or big emotions. You are so much more than what you've done, your body, and your worst thoughts.
Imagine feeling it in your bones that change is possible. How you relate to yourself, others, and life - can change. I want to work with people who are courageous and fearful and unsure. When we have limiting stories of ourselves it can be helpful to have someone else, a professional, hear us - see us- and want to show another way. I will not look away from your shadow, and I do not fear trauma or big emotions. You are so much more than what you've done, your body, and your worst thoughts.
Erin is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with an undergraduate degree in Psychology, and a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology (MACP). She offers individual and couples therapy. In addition to general mental health counselling, she has specialized training in Exposure therapy for anxiety/panic disorder/phobias and EMDR therapy (if appropriate). In her couples therapy, she uses an Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) approach combined with tools taken from the Gottman Method. Erin takes a down-to-earth, empathetic, inclusive, and non-judgmental approach to counselling.
Erin is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with an undergraduate degree in Psychology, and a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology (MACP). She offers individual and couples therapy. In addition to general mental health counselling, she has specialized training in Exposure therapy for anxiety/panic disorder/phobias and EMDR therapy (if appropriate). In her couples therapy, she uses an Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) approach combined with tools taken from the Gottman Method. Erin takes a down-to-earth, empathetic, inclusive, and non-judgmental approach to counselling.
Challenges and unexpected events can overwhelm our sense and emotions. I strive to work with children, youth and families in an empathetic and client centered approach to help individuals and groups find hope and joy for the future. Children and youth who have experienced trauma may find it difficult to participate in traditional talk therapies. Rainbow of Hope uses a play therapeutic approach so clients can tell their stories and process their complex emotions. By learning how to tell their story they learn coping strategies that enables each client to see hope within their future.
Challenges and unexpected events can overwhelm our sense and emotions. I strive to work with children, youth and families in an empathetic and client centered approach to help individuals and groups find hope and joy for the future. Children and youth who have experienced trauma may find it difficult to participate in traditional talk therapies. Rainbow of Hope uses a play therapeutic approach so clients can tell their stories and process their complex emotions. By learning how to tell their story they learn coping strategies that enables each client to see hope within their future.
Survivors of childhood trauma, individuals struggling in unhealthy relationships, emergency responders or individuals battling physical or mental illness all have the potential to develop a powerful mindset. A powerful mindset is about overcoming adversity and challenges that life presents. It’s about possessing, understanding, and being able to successfully use a set of psychological coping skills that allow you to be more effective, adaptive, and persistent while pursuing your goals. The foundation and quality of your life will be shaped by how how well you handle challenges and how open you are to improvement.
Survivors of childhood trauma, individuals struggling in unhealthy relationships, emergency responders or individuals battling physical or mental illness all have the potential to develop a powerful mindset. A powerful mindset is about overcoming adversity and challenges that life presents. It’s about possessing, understanding, and being able to successfully use a set of psychological coping skills that allow you to be more effective, adaptive, and persistent while pursuing your goals. The foundation and quality of your life will be shaped by how how well you handle challenges and how open you are to improvement.
As a practitioner for 26 years, I have come to appreciate that people and life are both wonderful and complicated. As such, my approach to therapy is to bring as much creativity as possible, in order to address individual needs and styles - I work with each person differently. For some, I use a CBT approach or give homework or teach skills. For others, I look more for insights into emotions or patterns.
As a practitioner for 26 years, I have come to appreciate that people and life are both wonderful and complicated. As such, my approach to therapy is to bring as much creativity as possible, in order to address individual needs and styles - I work with each person differently. For some, I use a CBT approach or give homework or teach skills. For others, I look more for insights into emotions or patterns.
15 Second Videos
Avril Paice
Megan DeSimone, The Life Balance Counselling
Danielle Downs
Making Strides Counselling and Wellness
Strength Counselling Services
Inner Balance; Bronwyn von Niessen
Counsellor, RCC, CCC, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1T
Hi! My name is Bronwyn. I'm a psychotherapist, hypnotherapist, and energy healer. I offer a range of services from science-backed neurotherapies to traditional energetic and metaphysical healing practices. In-office, and virtual options available. Home visits may also be approved.
Hi! My name is Bronwyn. I'm a psychotherapist, hypnotherapist, and energy healer. I offer a range of services from science-backed neurotherapies to traditional energetic and metaphysical healing practices. In-office, and virtual options available. Home visits may also be approved.
As a Certified Psychotherapist, Counsellor and Supervisor, I believe every person has a right to share their story. I provide a safe environment where people can process and gain the insights and awareness they are seeking. I deal with the root issue(s), not just the symptoms of the problems that are presented. Many have no where to turn and feel trapped in their issues, whether shame, fear, loneliness, anger, or hurt. These feelings are often deep-rooted and have not been recognized, acknowledged and shared with someone non-judgmental. As we share our life stories with someone objective we are able to find the healing we need.
As a Certified Psychotherapist, Counsellor and Supervisor, I believe every person has a right to share their story. I provide a safe environment where people can process and gain the insights and awareness they are seeking. I deal with the root issue(s), not just the symptoms of the problems that are presented. Many have no where to turn and feel trapped in their issues, whether shame, fear, loneliness, anger, or hurt. These feelings are often deep-rooted and have not been recognized, acknowledged and shared with someone non-judgmental. As we share our life stories with someone objective we are able to find the healing we need.
I am a holistic-based Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC) and Health & Wellness Coach. There are times when we feel like we may need some guidance or mentoring from a professional. As your counsellor, my mission is to help you find balance and improve your overall well-being. My clients emerge from our sessions feeling stronger, empowered and self-aware. I specialize in the treatment of a variety of mental, emotional and behavioural issues, including anxiety, stress, grief, loss and trauma. I bring special expertise in areas such as health, chronic medical issues, family conflict and interpersonal relationship issues.
I am a holistic-based Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC) and Health & Wellness Coach. There are times when we feel like we may need some guidance or mentoring from a professional. As your counsellor, my mission is to help you find balance and improve your overall well-being. My clients emerge from our sessions feeling stronger, empowered and self-aware. I specialize in the treatment of a variety of mental, emotional and behavioural issues, including anxiety, stress, grief, loss and trauma. I bring special expertise in areas such as health, chronic medical issues, family conflict and interpersonal relationship issues.
Hello! I’m Felicia, and I believe that people are astonishing, resilient beings who have the power to heal, grow, and reach fulfillment in life. Life stressors and negative past experiences can lead us to experience inner turmoil and cause us to question our decisions, feel adrift, and lose hope. It can be exhausting and overwhelming to navigate life while holding these experiences. I am passionate about helping those experiencing anxiety, depression and other challenges to improve life balance.
Hello! I’m Felicia, and I believe that people are astonishing, resilient beings who have the power to heal, grow, and reach fulfillment in life. Life stressors and negative past experiences can lead us to experience inner turmoil and cause us to question our decisions, feel adrift, and lose hope. It can be exhausting and overwhelming to navigate life while holding these experiences. I am passionate about helping those experiencing anxiety, depression and other challenges to improve life balance.
Stefanie Yadernuk
Counsellor, MACP, CCC, BSW
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1T
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, my name is Stefanie and I have over 12 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families within the social work field, and currently as a clinical certified counsellor. I am client-focused and collaboratively work together in partnership with you towards alleviating concerns and promoting overall wellness. Counselling and Psychotherapy offers a safe place to examine multiple perspectives and opportunities to edit and re-author your personal stories and outlook on yourself and the world. In addition, your feelings of safety and comfort are of utmost importance when setting up an effective therapeutic relationship.
Hello, my name is Stefanie and I have over 12 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families within the social work field, and currently as a clinical certified counsellor. I am client-focused and collaboratively work together in partnership with you towards alleviating concerns and promoting overall wellness. Counselling and Psychotherapy offers a safe place to examine multiple perspectives and opportunities to edit and re-author your personal stories and outlook on yourself and the world. In addition, your feelings of safety and comfort are of utmost importance when setting up an effective therapeutic relationship.
Are you looking for peace? Problem resolution? Habit changes? Help with goal setting? Goal achievement? As a Registered Professional Counsellor, Psychotherapist, Life and Performance Management Coach, Certified Master Hypnotist, Certified BodyTalk Practitioner, and Spiritual Director, I am committed to helping you transform your life. I believe transformation occurs by gently accessing our own inner knowledge through self-awareness, acceptance, and healing of mind/ body/spirit, in a safe/comfortable environment. Whether you are wanting to make positive changes in your personal/professional life, to reduce stress, to ease emotional/physical pain, or to explore your spirituality, my services can help.
Are you looking for peace? Problem resolution? Habit changes? Help with goal setting? Goal achievement? As a Registered Professional Counsellor, Psychotherapist, Life and Performance Management Coach, Certified Master Hypnotist, Certified BodyTalk Practitioner, and Spiritual Director, I am committed to helping you transform your life. I believe transformation occurs by gently accessing our own inner knowledge through self-awareness, acceptance, and healing of mind/ body/spirit, in a safe/comfortable environment. Whether you are wanting to make positive changes in your personal/professional life, to reduce stress, to ease emotional/physical pain, or to explore your spirituality, my services can help.
I specialize in providing supervision, somatic, and psychedelic-assisted therapy for individuals seeking support in navigating trauma and its profound impact on their lives. With a deep understanding of trauma-informed care and a commitment to ethical practice, I offer a safe and supportive space for therapists and clients alike to explore the healing potential of psychedelics as a self-exploration or within a medically supervised situation. As a seasoned supervisor, I provide guidance and mentorship to therapists seeking to integrate psychedelic therapy into their practice.
I specialize in providing supervision, somatic, and psychedelic-assisted therapy for individuals seeking support in navigating trauma and its profound impact on their lives. With a deep understanding of trauma-informed care and a commitment to ethical practice, I offer a safe and supportive space for therapists and clients alike to explore the healing potential of psychedelics as a self-exploration or within a medically supervised situation. As a seasoned supervisor, I provide guidance and mentorship to therapists seeking to integrate psychedelic therapy into their practice.
I specialize in the treatment of PTSD and other trauma-base disorders. Everyday, I see the devastating effects that PTSD has on people: hypervigilance, panic, insomnia, nightmares and flashbacks. Many also struggle with uncontrollable anger, isolation, suicidal thoughts, and low self-worth. PTSD may have led you to lose your employment, friends and family. It may have led you to engage in alcohol and drug abuse to escape your suffering and you may be burdened with a long list of medications to take. People do not realize how PTSD also wrecks havoc on their physical health. Many are discouraged by long and costly therapy.
I specialize in the treatment of PTSD and other trauma-base disorders. Everyday, I see the devastating effects that PTSD has on people: hypervigilance, panic, insomnia, nightmares and flashbacks. Many also struggle with uncontrollable anger, isolation, suicidal thoughts, and low self-worth. PTSD may have led you to lose your employment, friends and family. It may have led you to engage in alcohol and drug abuse to escape your suffering and you may be burdened with a long list of medications to take. People do not realize how PTSD also wrecks havoc on their physical health. Many are discouraged by long and costly therapy.
We all face challenges, obstacles, and the pain of our inner wounds- and you deserve a safe space to explore and heal from these experiences. Perhaps you are noticing the impacts of childhood experiences, past relationships, or recent events. Maybe life shifts and transitions are feeling heavy or confusing. I am here to support you in discovering what healing looks like for you, to allow us to gently approach the vulnerable parts of your experiences. You do not need to be alone in your next steps of your healing journey.
We all face challenges, obstacles, and the pain of our inner wounds- and you deserve a safe space to explore and heal from these experiences. Perhaps you are noticing the impacts of childhood experiences, past relationships, or recent events. Maybe life shifts and transitions are feeling heavy or confusing. I am here to support you in discovering what healing looks like for you, to allow us to gently approach the vulnerable parts of your experiences. You do not need to be alone in your next steps of your healing journey.
See more therapy options for Vernon
Nearby Chronic Illness Counsellors Searches for Vernon
See More Chronic Illness CounsellorsNearby Searches for Vernon
See More CounsellorsChronic 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.