Chronic Pain Therapists in Victoria, BC

Photo of Janette Sperber - The Empowered Life Biofeedback & Counselling, MSc, RCC, Counsellor
The Empowered Life Biofeedback & Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T
I provide specialized care including biofeedback for issues of anxiety and panic attacks, sleep disturbances, chronic pain and physical disorders, substance use and behavioral addictions, as well as general life stress and depression.
Currently accepting new clients. Do you have panic attacks, chronic pain, anxiety or sleep problems? I can help you feel more confident in your ability to meet these challenges. You can learn to calm your nervous system and attain a better sense of control and empowerment. I have extensive experience dealing with pain or disability issues, including chronic pain of any kind, headaches, nerve and muscle pain. For those interested in polyvagal theory, I also integrate the work of Dr. Stephen Porges. If you are coping with "long Covid", I invite you to learn more about how HRV biofeedback can support your recovery.
I provide specialized care including biofeedback for issues of anxiety and panic attacks, sleep disturbances, chronic pain and physical disorders, substance use and behavioral addictions, as well as general life stress and depression.
Currently accepting new clients. Do you have panic attacks, chronic pain, anxiety or sleep problems? I can help you feel more confident in your ability to meet these challenges. You can learn to calm your nervous system and attain a better sense of control and empowerment. I have extensive experience dealing with pain or disability issues, including chronic pain of any kind, headaches, nerve and muscle pain. For those interested in polyvagal theory, I also integrate the work of Dr. Stephen Porges. If you are coping with "long Covid", I invite you to learn more about how HRV biofeedback can support your recovery.
(604) 265-7886 View (604) 265-7886
Photo of Aleya Nailor, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Aleya Nailor
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9B
Hello, my name is Aleya. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and I am here to help you seek opportunities for growth from change and life events. Pregnancy and parenthood. Grief and loss. Relationships and marriage. Career transitions. Accidents or illness. It can be really hard to see your way through these significant (and sometimes unexpected) life events when you're in the thick of it, especially if you're not sure which way to go. Connecting with someone who can help you understand your feelings, validate them, and provide the right tools to deal with them can help these moments feel more manageable.
Hello, my name is Aleya. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and I am here to help you seek opportunities for growth from change and life events. Pregnancy and parenthood. Grief and loss. Relationships and marriage. Career transitions. Accidents or illness. It can be really hard to see your way through these significant (and sometimes unexpected) life events when you're in the thick of it, especially if you're not sure which way to go. Connecting with someone who can help you understand your feelings, validate them, and provide the right tools to deal with them can help these moments feel more manageable.
(709) 400-5443 View (709) 400-5443
Photo of Linda Elizabeth Hay - Linda Hay Hypnosis, RN, BScN, CH
Linda Hay Hypnosis
RN, BScN, CH
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8S
Do you suffer from low self esteem, lack of confidence, have stress, anxiety or panic attacks? Do you need to make changes in your life like stop smoking or vaping, lose weight , sleep better, or need help with chronic pain, phobias, or addictions? Have you ever considered Hypnotherapy? It works!! I am a retired nurse, grief educator and a hypnotherapist, certified through the National Guild of Hypnosis [NGH]. Besides hypnosis, I practice NLP and Neuroplasticity for trauma, PTSD and symptoms of illness such as Parkinson's, Stroke, and Fibromyalgia .
Do you suffer from low self esteem, lack of confidence, have stress, anxiety or panic attacks? Do you need to make changes in your life like stop smoking or vaping, lose weight , sleep better, or need help with chronic pain, phobias, or addictions? Have you ever considered Hypnotherapy? It works!! I am a retired nurse, grief educator and a hypnotherapist, certified through the National Guild of Hypnosis [NGH]. Besides hypnosis, I practice NLP and Neuroplasticity for trauma, PTSD and symptoms of illness such as Parkinson's, Stroke, and Fibromyalgia .
(226) 909-2370 View (226) 909-2370
Photo of Christine Selder, MEd, RCC, SEP, Counsellor
Christine Selder
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T  (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 Hilary Ison, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Hilary Ison
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T
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 Tami-Lee Duncan, MEd, RPsych, Psychologist
Tami-Lee Duncan
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8P
Her research focus is on the treatment of sexual pain disorders, including vulvodynia.
Coming from a position of compassion, empathy, and knowledge, Tami provides individual and couples treatment for a variety of concerns. In particular, Tami specializes in sexual therapy, which includes therapy related to dysfunction, health & education, relationships, orientation, infidelity, and addictions, and those affected by sexual pain.
Her research focus is on the treatment of sexual pain disorders, including vulvodynia.
Coming from a position of compassion, empathy, and knowledge, Tami provides individual and couples treatment for a variety of concerns. In particular, Tami specializes in sexual therapy, which includes therapy related to dysfunction, health & education, relationships, orientation, infidelity, and addictions, and those affected by sexual pain.
(587) 742-0379 View (587) 742-0379
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
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
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 Carla Friesen - Carla Friesen Counselling, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Carla Friesen Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8L
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. I know how overwhelming life can be and how lonely it can feel when you are trying to hold it together. Together we can help you clarify, prioritize, and make progress towards enjoying life again.
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. I know how overwhelming life can be and how lonely it can feel when you are trying to hold it together. Together we can help you clarify, prioritize, and make progress towards enjoying life again.
(438) 795-1748 View (438) 795-1748
Photo of Shannon Dikkema, BSc, RTC, CCC, Counsellor
Shannon Dikkema
Counsellor, BSc, RTC, CCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8N
Are you feeling stuck, anxious or experiencing the same-old challenges in your life and relationships? Somatic Therapy can safely get to the root of the issues and support your system to release these old patterns. I love working with all types of people, new to therapy, seasoned clients and everyone in between. My areas of passion and focus are childhood trauma, chronic pain, sexualized and domestic violence and personal and professional growth and development. I have a lot of experience working with highly sensitive people and trauma, both shock and childhood trauma. www.resiliencesomatics.ca
Are you feeling stuck, anxious or experiencing the same-old challenges in your life and relationships? Somatic Therapy can safely get to the root of the issues and support your system to release these old patterns. I love working with all types of people, new to therapy, seasoned clients and everyone in between. My areas of passion and focus are childhood trauma, chronic pain, sexualized and domestic violence and personal and professional growth and development. I have a lot of experience working with highly sensitive people and trauma, both shock and childhood trauma. www.resiliencesomatics.ca
(778) 766-5456 View (778) 766-5456
Photo of Zara Dureno, MOT, BA, Occupational Therapist
Zara Dureno
Occupational Therapist, MOT, BA
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8N  (Online Only)
I have lived experience with chronic pain and concussions and have taken many specialized courses which inform my therapy.
Hello! I am so glad you found my profile, thank you for seeking help and for being here. If you are having difficulty with chronic pain, a long-standing illness, post-concussion syndrome or mental health then you have come to the right place. I would be very honoured to assist you on your healing journey with practical tools and strategies to help you recover and manage your symptoms. We can use the tools of neurofeedback, cognitive rehabilitation or traditional therapies (CBT/DBT/ACT/Polyvagal Theory/Somatics) to help you feel like your best self again. We can rewire our brains and I want to support you in this!
I have lived experience with chronic pain and concussions and have taken many specialized courses which inform my therapy.
Hello! I am so glad you found my profile, thank you for seeking help and for being here. If you are having difficulty with chronic pain, a long-standing illness, post-concussion syndrome or mental health then you have come to the right place. I would be very honoured to assist you on your healing journey with practical tools and strategies to help you recover and manage your symptoms. We can use the tools of neurofeedback, cognitive rehabilitation or traditional therapies (CBT/DBT/ACT/Polyvagal Theory/Somatics) to help you feel like your best self again. We can rewire our brains and I want to support you in this!
(902) 907-0604 View (902) 907-0604
Photo of Bryan Davis - Empathic Ocean (Bryan Davis), RTC, Counsellor
Empathic Ocean (Bryan Davis)
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8N
Are you seeking relief from pain? Past and current issues like abandonment, trauma, and stress wreak havoc on our body’s equilibrium - our nervous system state. This can lead to issues like depression, self loathing, anger, anxiety, and chronic health issues. These painful issues can cause disruptions in our relationships, leading to even more pain and disconnect. Using proven, effective approaches to regulate our nervous system, we can regain our balance, have greater capacity to create new ways of being in relationship - both with self, and other - so that we can make positive, meaningful, and lasting changes in our lives.
Are you seeking relief from pain? Past and current issues like abandonment, trauma, and stress wreak havoc on our body’s equilibrium - our nervous system state. This can lead to issues like depression, self loathing, anger, anxiety, and chronic health issues. These painful issues can cause disruptions in our relationships, leading to even more pain and disconnect. Using proven, effective approaches to regulate our nervous system, we can regain our balance, have greater capacity to create new ways of being in relationship - both with self, and other - so that we can make positive, meaningful, and lasting changes in our lives.
(587) 740-2050 View (587) 740-2050
Photo of Alex Mayr-Landrecht, BHSc, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alex Mayr-Landrecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, BHSc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8Z
Getting here may have been a big step- let's take the next one together. Clients who find me here at Burn Bright Counselling may seek autonomy and empowerment in their health care journey. They may grapple with issues related to sexuality and gender identity, trauma, sex worker experiences, life transitions, chronic pain, or alternative relationship models, including polyamory and BDSM/kink. They need a supportive space to explore their experiences, dreams, fears, and desires. Together, we will work towards their goals which may include self-discovery, healing, and authentic living, fostering their innate strengths and solutions.
Getting here may have been a big step- let's take the next one together. Clients who find me here at Burn Bright Counselling may seek autonomy and empowerment in their health care journey. They may grapple with issues related to sexuality and gender identity, trauma, sex worker experiences, life transitions, chronic pain, or alternative relationship models, including polyamory and BDSM/kink. They need a supportive space to explore their experiences, dreams, fears, and desires. Together, we will work towards their goals which may include self-discovery, healing, and authentic living, fostering their innate strengths and solutions.
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Photo of Carla Mae Leuschen, MPA, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carla Mae Leuschen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
My practice philosophy is that each person has a natural, infinite inner strength that transforms their pain & supports their physical, mental & spiritual health.
I work with clients whom wish to push the boundaries of “normal” to uncover & deconstruct the root causes of their suffering. Many of the people that I work with are dealing with major depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and overall frustration with the current state of society and the environment. The clients that I see often present to me with symptoms such as feeling blocked, overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, alone, and powerless in their life. I support clients to transform their pain into strength so that they can live a more fulfilled life.
My practice philosophy is that each person has a natural, infinite inner strength that transforms their pain & supports their physical, mental & spiritual health.
I work with clients whom wish to push the boundaries of “normal” to uncover & deconstruct the root causes of their suffering. Many of the people that I work with are dealing with major depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and overall frustration with the current state of society and the environment. The clients that I see often present to me with symptoms such as feeling blocked, overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, alone, and powerless in their life. I support clients to transform their pain into strength so that they can live a more fulfilled life.
(778) 743-5005 View (778) 743-5005
Photo of Charis Santiago, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Charis Santiago
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
Waitlist for new clients
Each of us knows the intimate experience of grief and pain throughout moments in our lives and often, these occur in the context of relationships.
Welcome. How brave and courageous to explore newness for yourself. My name is Charis Santiago and I am a 2nd generation Filipina-Canadian therapist who provides relational analytic counselling services in Victoria, BC and telehealth. I am passionate about working with you surrounding a wide range of mental health issues. My specialties include working with issues of trauma and sexual abuse, racial/ethnic and identity development, issues with family, play therapy, addiction and mood disorders.
Each of us knows the intimate experience of grief and pain throughout moments in our lives and often, these occur in the context of relationships.
Welcome. How brave and courageous to explore newness for yourself. My name is Charis Santiago and I am a 2nd generation Filipina-Canadian therapist who provides relational analytic counselling services in Victoria, BC and telehealth. I am passionate about working with you surrounding a wide range of mental health issues. My specialties include working with issues of trauma and sexual abuse, racial/ethnic and identity development, issues with family, play therapy, addiction and mood disorders.
(705) 805-6019 View (705) 805-6019
Photo of Guido Timmermans, MA(Psy), CCC, MScEng, PrE(SA), Counsellor
Guido Timmermans
Counsellor, MA(Psy), CCC, MScEng, PrE(SA)
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9B
My therapy is about overcoming feelings of anxiety, depression, sadness, anger, or pain and developing ways to get the life you want. Many of us feel anxious and depressed about what is going on or worry about the future. If you are hurting those you love, you can change that. Do you need to handle your anger better? That is possible. Are you trying to survive a major loss? There is a way. If you have lost hope or don't know how to go about making these crucial adjustments, in our discussions you will develop insights to overcome these challenges, and learn about what needs to be done to achieve your goals, step by step.
My therapy is about overcoming feelings of anxiety, depression, sadness, anger, or pain and developing ways to get the life you want. Many of us feel anxious and depressed about what is going on or worry about the future. If you are hurting those you love, you can change that. Do you need to handle your anger better? That is possible. Are you trying to survive a major loss? There is a way. If you have lost hope or don't know how to go about making these crucial adjustments, in our discussions you will develop insights to overcome these challenges, and learn about what needs to be done to achieve your goals, step by step.
(866) 533-3743 View (866) 533-3743
Photo of Michelle McLean, MEd, CCC, Counsellor
Michelle McLean
Counsellor, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
And sometimes, avoiding that pain hurts even more.
Feeling overwhelmed by frustrated needs, responsibilities, being overlooked in love or work, losing someone important, health concerns, or a relentless internal critic? Does this lead to sadness, despair, rage, dread, or shame that feels too heavy to bear? Do you cope by numbing, lashing out at loved ones, engaging in addictive behaviours, socially isolating, or avoiding what matters? We can grow weary managing this chaos of life alone, yet asking for help is hard. I can lend a hand supporting you to face pain and find meaning in troubled times, lightening the load so you can spread your wings to find more room for joy in life.
And sometimes, avoiding that pain hurts even more.
Feeling overwhelmed by frustrated needs, responsibilities, being overlooked in love or work, losing someone important, health concerns, or a relentless internal critic? Does this lead to sadness, despair, rage, dread, or shame that feels too heavy to bear? Do you cope by numbing, lashing out at loved ones, engaging in addictive behaviours, socially isolating, or avoiding what matters? We can grow weary managing this chaos of life alone, yet asking for help is hard. I can lend a hand supporting you to face pain and find meaning in troubled times, lightening the load so you can spread your wings to find more room for joy in life.
(236) 904-0588 View (236) 904-0588
Photo of Ryan Yellowlees, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Ryan Yellowlees
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V  (Online Only)
My counselling approach is informed by my personal experience living with a chronic illness and by (Dis)ability justice, humanistic, person-centred, and strength-based perspectives.
Do you feel stuck? Are you feeling like your life is going nowhere? It can be an uncomfortable and overwhelming place to be. I offer a supportive, safe space to help you get unstuck and guide your life in a new direction. Together, we can navigate life's challenges, discover your strengths, and build a path toward healing and growth. I am here to assist you along your mental wellness journey.
My counselling approach is informed by my personal experience living with a chronic illness and by (Dis)ability justice, humanistic, person-centred, and strength-based perspectives.
Do you feel stuck? Are you feeling like your life is going nowhere? It can be an uncomfortable and overwhelming place to be. I offer a supportive, safe space to help you get unstuck and guide your life in a new direction. Together, we can navigate life's challenges, discover your strengths, and build a path toward healing and growth. I am here to assist you along your mental wellness journey.
(778) 743-8187 View (778) 743-8187
Photo of Nina Sloan, MA, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Nina Sloan
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9A  (Online Only)
My areas of passion are working with 2SLGBTQIA clients, alternative sexual/romantic relationship identities & dynamics (ex. ethically non-monogamy, polyamory, kink, swinging, BDSM, open relationships, sex work, etc.), sex & intimacy, consent & boundaries, religious trauma, chronic pain/ illness, neurodiversity, and life transitions. I draw from both education and lived experience to provide deeper insight into supporting you from an open-minded, trauma-informed, sex-positive, and affirming framework. The journey of healing and growth can be messy, challenging, and heart-breaking while also beautifully majestic and worth every effort.
My areas of passion are working with 2SLGBTQIA clients, alternative sexual/romantic relationship identities & dynamics (ex. ethically non-monogamy, polyamory, kink, swinging, BDSM, open relationships, sex work, etc.), sex & intimacy, consent & boundaries, religious trauma, chronic pain/ illness, neurodiversity, and life transitions. I draw from both education and lived experience to provide deeper insight into supporting you from an open-minded, trauma-informed, sex-positive, and affirming framework. The journey of healing and growth can be messy, challenging, and heart-breaking while also beautifully majestic and worth every effort.
(250) 806-0455 View (250) 806-0455
Photo of Josh Slatkoff, RPsych, (BC), Psychologist
Josh Slatkoff
Psychologist, RPsych, (BC)
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8W
I am a Registered Psychologist (CPBC #1774) who sees adult clients in Victoria, BC. I work with clients to develop coping skills to face challenges and accept limitations. I believe that clients benefit most from therapy when it matches their unique needs for emotional and personal growth. I use several research-supported approaches (e.g., Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to address: depression, social anxiety, panic, phobias, obsessions and compulsions (OCD), adjustment to chronic pain, trauma, anger management, stress management, life transitions, parenting, and family relationships.
I am a Registered Psychologist (CPBC #1774) who sees adult clients in Victoria, BC. I work with clients to develop coping skills to face challenges and accept limitations. I believe that clients benefit most from therapy when it matches their unique needs for emotional and personal growth. I use several research-supported approaches (e.g., Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to address: depression, social anxiety, panic, phobias, obsessions and compulsions (OCD), adjustment to chronic pain, trauma, anger management, stress management, life transitions, parenting, and family relationships.
(855) 515-2981 View (855) 515-2981
Photo of Nikki Vida, Bsc, MACP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nikki Vida
Pre-Licensed Professional, Bsc, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8Z
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress? Do you feel stuck, numb, overwhelmed, or consumed with worry? Do you live with chronic pain or illness and feel hopeless? Do you struggle with low self-esteem and image? Are you navigating living with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and intense emotions? You are not alone and I can help. I will take care to provide you with individualized support based on my life experience, training, and education. I offer a warm, safe, and judge-free space where you can explore ways to increase your well-being, work on your goals, and feel empowered to make meaningful changes.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress? Do you feel stuck, numb, overwhelmed, or consumed with worry? Do you live with chronic pain or illness and feel hopeless? Do you struggle with low self-esteem and image? Are you navigating living with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and intense emotions? You are not alone and I can help. I will take care to provide you with individualized support based on my life experience, training, and education. I offer a warm, safe, and judge-free space where you can explore ways to increase your well-being, work on your goals, and feel empowered to make meaningful changes.
(587) 742-7335 View (587) 742-7335
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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.