Chronic Pain Therapists in Halifax, NS
![Photo of Eleanor McGroarty At One To One Wellness, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22698ebc-db88-48ff-b700-43b31b0a2af0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eleanor McGroarty At One To One Wellness
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3J (Online Only)
I have worked with 100's of individuals and couples experiencing issues related to pain, stress, depression, anxiety, work, illness, grief, trauma, relationships, culture, ADHD and more.
As your psychologist, I'll help you develop skills and insights for positive, lasting change. I'll be fully present and tuned in to understand your experiences, pain, fears, and hopes. We will be a team, your feedback will be used to design your treatment and ensure that it is helpful. Our sessions will provide a space for you to process what's going on in your mind, while equipping you with tools to reduce and manage physical and mental distress and pain. We can explore if other treatments such as physiotherapy, massage and osteopathy with our great team at One to One Wellness may help you to feel better and stronger in your life.
I have worked with 100's of individuals and couples experiencing issues related to pain, stress, depression, anxiety, work, illness, grief, trauma, relationships, culture, ADHD and more.
As your psychologist, I'll help you develop skills and insights for positive, lasting change. I'll be fully present and tuned in to understand your experiences, pain, fears, and hopes. We will be a team, your feedback will be used to design your treatment and ensure that it is helpful. Our sessions will provide a space for you to process what's going on in your mind, while equipping you with tools to reduce and manage physical and mental distress and pain. We can explore if other treatments such as physiotherapy, massage and osteopathy with our great team at One to One Wellness may help you to feel better and stronger in your life.
![Photo of Dorota Hedzelek, PhD, RCC, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d02abc9-bb4c-4d05-810d-9965602e4eca/2/320x400.jpeg)
Recovery from pain is possible. Let's start together from understanding YOUR pain and creating a path to wellness that is unique for YOU. I am fascinated by the brain and body connection and the immense possibilities that arise when we open ourselves to learning and understanding how various psychoneurobiological mechanisms work, how our environments and circumstances have shaped us and continue to do so, and how we can harness the power of that understanding towards change. Studies indicate that many chronic pain conditions are often not the result of structural causes, but of psychoneurobiological processes that can be reversed.
Recovery from pain is possible. Let's start together from understanding YOUR pain and creating a path to wellness that is unique for YOU. I am fascinated by the brain and body connection and the immense possibilities that arise when we open ourselves to learning and understanding how various psychoneurobiological mechanisms work, how our environments and circumstances have shaped us and continue to do so, and how we can harness the power of that understanding towards change. Studies indicate that many chronic pain conditions are often not the result of structural causes, but of psychoneurobiological processes that can be reversed.
![Photo of Bonnie F. Hartman, MEd, NBC-HWC, PGAP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/723c6de7-b3a3-46f1-9330-11d5396f7a3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I specialize in offering compassionate support during challenging life transitions and helping individuals navigate through stress with resilience. While I'm here for anyone seeking guidance, my focus areas include chronic pain, chronic illness, ADHD, motivation, perfectionism, and non-clinical anxiety and depression. My passion for this work stems from a desire to ensure that no one has to face these struggles alone.
Welcome! I specialize in offering compassionate support during challenging life transitions and helping individuals navigate through stress with resilience. While I'm here for anyone seeking guidance, my focus areas include chronic pain, chronic illness, ADHD, motivation, perfectionism, and non-clinical anxiety and depression. My passion for this work stems from a desire to ensure that no one has to face these struggles alone.
![Photo of Cynthia Herr, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/342c3e28-cf7d-4438-bd56-ed58d8ddcfbe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients! Are you living with chronic pain, or other chronic illnesses? Are depression, anxiety, trauma, or other mental health issues unwelcome guests in your life? Are you frustrated because, despite treatment and your best efforts, you continue to struggle? Do you compare yourself to the way you used to be, and long for your "old life" back? Are you a family member struggling to support your loved one? Health issues can be overwhelming, unpredictable, and can take a toll on relationships. To complicate matters, finding appropriate health care is challenging, and accessing treatment can be difficult and frustrating.
Accepting new clients! Are you living with chronic pain, or other chronic illnesses? Are depression, anxiety, trauma, or other mental health issues unwelcome guests in your life? Are you frustrated because, despite treatment and your best efforts, you continue to struggle? Do you compare yourself to the way you used to be, and long for your "old life" back? Are you a family member struggling to support your loved one? Health issues can be overwhelming, unpredictable, and can take a toll on relationships. To complicate matters, finding appropriate health care is challenging, and accessing treatment can be difficult and frustrating.
![Photo of Kelly A Copeland, MEd, RCT, CCC, BRec, CTRS, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce9f3229-b785-4ff2-ad9c-54471b9c09c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly A Copeland
Counsellor, MEd, RCT, CCC, BRec, CTRS
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3T (Online Only)
Some of the areas I provide counselling for include grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, dementia, burnout, chronic pain, life transitions and anger management.
Without a doubt, life is full of adversity, which can bring us to a place of distress and inner turmoil. I am a Registered Counselling Therapist who has had the honour of helping many souls find a sense of calm and hope amidst the many storms of life. I have been providing counselling services since 2012 and had a previous career as a Certified Recreation Therapist. My approach is one of genuine care and encouragement. I will provide you with a safe space to process your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. As you engage in the counselling process, you will find yourself developing a new awareness and clarity.
Some of the areas I provide counselling for include grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, dementia, burnout, chronic pain, life transitions and anger management.
Without a doubt, life is full of adversity, which can bring us to a place of distress and inner turmoil. I am a Registered Counselling Therapist who has had the honour of helping many souls find a sense of calm and hope amidst the many storms of life. I have been providing counselling services since 2012 and had a previous career as a Certified Recreation Therapist. My approach is one of genuine care and encouragement. I will provide you with a safe space to process your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. As you engage in the counselling process, you will find yourself developing a new awareness and clarity.
![Photo of Dr. Marcel Peloquin, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba22a7a9-234e-4360-8bbf-8f50dc24cbad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marcel Peloquin
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3K
Waitlist for new clients
What has spared us from pain in the past often keeps us stuck and anxious in the present. Most of us wish to be free of our psychological suffering, but we find ourselves continuing to treat ourselves or others poorly in spite of our best interest to do otherwise. We all need a therapeutic relationship where we can learn to experience our emotions safely, regulate our anxiety, and turn against our defenses. I provide Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), a comprehensive form of psychotherapy that helps patients experience their emotions and understand themselves across a broad range of clinical concerns.
What has spared us from pain in the past often keeps us stuck and anxious in the present. Most of us wish to be free of our psychological suffering, but we find ourselves continuing to treat ourselves or others poorly in spite of our best interest to do otherwise. We all need a therapeutic relationship where we can learn to experience our emotions safely, regulate our anxiety, and turn against our defenses. I provide Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), a comprehensive form of psychotherapy that helps patients experience their emotions and understand themselves across a broad range of clinical concerns.
![Photo of Dr. Marcia-Lisa Dennis - Lisa's - Holistic Rehab & Neurofeedback Inc., OTD, Occupational Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48e6e9c5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa's - Holistic Rehab & Neurofeedback Inc.
Occupational Therapist, OTD
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3M
Helping rehabilitate poor attention, trauma, concussion, reading difficulties, sensory issues, mental illness, etc.
Do you struggle with: "I do things that I later regret." "I can't sit still." "Everything seems to distract me." "I read slowly and sometimes the words move on the page." "I avoid crowded places." "I get irritated by sounds." "The lights bother me." "My headaches or dizziness won't go away." We can help you overcome these challenges using a systematic approach. Rehabilitate the brain by focusing on interventions that improve neuroplasticity (the ability of the brain to change itself). Providing cutting-edge rehabilitation such as Neurofeedback to children and adults suffering from brain based disorders.
Helping rehabilitate poor attention, trauma, concussion, reading difficulties, sensory issues, mental illness, etc.
Do you struggle with: "I do things that I later regret." "I can't sit still." "Everything seems to distract me." "I read slowly and sometimes the words move on the page." "I avoid crowded places." "I get irritated by sounds." "The lights bother me." "My headaches or dizziness won't go away." We can help you overcome these challenges using a systematic approach. Rehabilitate the brain by focusing on interventions that improve neuroplasticity (the ability of the brain to change itself). Providing cutting-edge rehabilitation such as Neurofeedback to children and adults suffering from brain based disorders.
![Photo of Elizabeth Berlasso, MEd, NSRCT, SEP, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/959d388d-85cb-4326-9d8c-ecd79f6971d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taking new clients looking to resolve trauma. My approach to therapy is rooted in the view that people have an inherent capacity for healthiness. I will work with you to uncover that wellbeing again so that you can live the life you deserve with more vitality and authenticity whether you suffer from chronic illness, the burden of a traumatic injury or complex trauma, a diagnosis of PTSD, anxiety, depression, unprocessed grief, or the malaise that comes from being over-stressed and not coping as well as you'd like.
Taking new clients looking to resolve trauma. My approach to therapy is rooted in the view that people have an inherent capacity for healthiness. I will work with you to uncover that wellbeing again so that you can live the life you deserve with more vitality and authenticity whether you suffer from chronic illness, the burden of a traumatic injury or complex trauma, a diagnosis of PTSD, anxiety, depression, unprocessed grief, or the malaise that comes from being over-stressed and not coping as well as you'd like.
![Photo of Ioan Tiberiu Mahu, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9101af6-bf36-43b4-ab42-f7c48c3b41c6/2/320x400.png)
I provide assessment and therapy services to adult clients presenting with a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, chronic pain and other chronic health conditions, psychosis, complex trauma, PTSD, grief, relationship difficulties, and other issues. I hope to provide a safe space for clients of all identities and presenting concerns. I worked in several clinical and academic settings, including hospital, military, and para-military (i.e., RCMP, first responders). I have specialized training in assessing and treating trauma-related disorders (e.g., PTSD), including operational stress injuries.
I provide assessment and therapy services to adult clients presenting with a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, chronic pain and other chronic health conditions, psychosis, complex trauma, PTSD, grief, relationship difficulties, and other issues. I hope to provide a safe space for clients of all identities and presenting concerns. I worked in several clinical and academic settings, including hospital, military, and para-military (i.e., RCMP, first responders). I have specialized training in assessing and treating trauma-related disorders (e.g., PTSD), including operational stress injuries.
![Photo of Donna Marie McLean, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/722bc733-a6f2-41e2-9578-78361452d96b/3/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that people are inherently healthy and resilient, and capable of recovering from areas where they may be stuck by finding new insights, knowledge and tools. I see my role as helping people find their way through mental health challenges, challenges with family relationships or with work, struggles with chronic illness, loss and grief, or through life transitions to see their highest potential.
I believe that people are inherently healthy and resilient, and capable of recovering from areas where they may be stuck by finding new insights, knowledge and tools. I see my role as helping people find their way through mental health challenges, challenges with family relationships or with work, struggles with chronic illness, loss and grief, or through life transitions to see their highest potential.
![Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b778da87-857d-40cd-8d24-73706c0cfc16/1/320x400.jpeg)
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3K (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.
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![Photo of Heather A Macmillan, MEd, RCT, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4506be4c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather A Macmillan
Counsellor, MEd, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3H
Not accepting new clients
I have worked with clients who have multiple chronic conditions, depression, addictions, anxiety; experienced an overwhelming event (accident/physical assault) as well as chronic trauma (long-term illness/ child/partner abuse).
CURRENTLY NOT TAKING NEW CLIENTS. “Until you stop breathing, there's more right with you than wrong with you." (Jon Kabat-Zinn) This is also my guide and intention as a Registered Counselling Therapist. My work is to help an individual experience themselves differently while providing compassion, presence and skill in a safe space. I offer an integrated, eclectic approach that is based on each client's needs. Understanding attachment style, the effects of trauma and the mind-brain-body connection inform my therapeutic approach.
I have worked with clients who have multiple chronic conditions, depression, addictions, anxiety; experienced an overwhelming event (accident/physical assault) as well as chronic trauma (long-term illness/ child/partner abuse).
CURRENTLY NOT TAKING NEW CLIENTS. “Until you stop breathing, there's more right with you than wrong with you." (Jon Kabat-Zinn) This is also my guide and intention as a Registered Counselling Therapist. My work is to help an individual experience themselves differently while providing compassion, presence and skill in a safe space. I offer an integrated, eclectic approach that is based on each client's needs. Understanding attachment style, the effects of trauma and the mind-brain-body connection inform my therapeutic approach.
![Photo of Dr. Natalie Stratton, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3ac7c6b-fc45-4f74-8992-857a99364a51/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in the treatment of adults and couples/relationships experiencing: anxiety disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, sexual issues/dysfunction (low sexual desire, pain during sexual activity, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, lack of orgasm, out-of-control sexual behaviour, specific sexual interests), insomnia, difficulty coping with medical conditions (infertility, HIV, cancer, pregnancy/postpartum, menopause), as well as relationship issues (e.g., communication difficulties, infidelity, sexual desire discrepancies, open or polyamory relationship issues).
I specialize in the treatment of adults and couples/relationships experiencing: anxiety disorders, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, sexual issues/dysfunction (low sexual desire, pain during sexual activity, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, lack of orgasm, out-of-control sexual behaviour, specific sexual interests), insomnia, difficulty coping with medical conditions (infertility, HIV, cancer, pregnancy/postpartum, menopause), as well as relationship issues (e.g., communication difficulties, infidelity, sexual desire discrepancies, open or polyamory relationship issues).
![Photo of Lois Cartwright, BA, RN, BN, MN, NP, MC, RCT (C), CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98980ecc-011c-45c8-a6f3-6e385e696778/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lois Cartwright
Counsellor, BA, RN, BN, MN, NP, MC, RCT (C), CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3M
As a health care professional for 30 years, I have experience working with people who have depression, anxiety, addiction, stress, trauma, chronic pain and sleep disorders.
Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I am a licensed therapist and experienced mental health Nurse Practitioner. If you feel isolated and alone, or you are struggling with addiction or past trauma, I can help. Please reach out today. Together we will develop healthy coping strategies and work towards the quality of life you desire.
As a health care professional for 30 years, I have experience working with people who have depression, anxiety, addiction, stress, trauma, chronic pain and sleep disorders.
Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I am a licensed therapist and experienced mental health Nurse Practitioner. If you feel isolated and alone, or you are struggling with addiction or past trauma, I can help. Please reach out today. Together we will develop healthy coping strategies and work towards the quality of life you desire.
![Photo of Meagan Hasek-Watt - Riverwest Therapy Collective, R Psych, MC, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2901f792-5574-468e-b757-f35136f35f37/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! We are a radtastic group of Psychologists, Psychotherapists, Certified Counsellors & Social Workers in private practice offering therapy & assessment services for our clients - In person:AB; Virtual: NS, YK, AB. We specialize in Trauma, Anxiety, Autism, ADHD, Neurodiversity, Grief/Loss, Identity, Chronic pain/illness, Personal Injury claims, WCB claims, end of life/death/dying, Sex & Relationships, Major Life Transitions (e.g. divorce, marriage), Infertility/Pregnancy Loss, Child Loss, & Assessment including ADHD, Autism, Learning, PsychoEducational, Gifted/School Admissions, MVA Assessment.
Hello! We are a radtastic group of Psychologists, Psychotherapists, Certified Counsellors & Social Workers in private practice offering therapy & assessment services for our clients - In person:AB; Virtual: NS, YK, AB. We specialize in Trauma, Anxiety, Autism, ADHD, Neurodiversity, Grief/Loss, Identity, Chronic pain/illness, Personal Injury claims, WCB claims, end of life/death/dying, Sex & Relationships, Major Life Transitions (e.g. divorce, marriage), Infertility/Pregnancy Loss, Child Loss, & Assessment including ADHD, Autism, Learning, PsychoEducational, Gifted/School Admissions, MVA Assessment.
![Photo of Anita Owusu, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd12aba4-a895-47d0-9b8a-4e79bbf6bc2f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anita Owusu
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3J
Waitlist for new clients
In my years of practice, my focus has been centred around individuals from different walks of life (i.e race, religion, gender, sexual orientation etc). Particularly, ones who have trauma, body image issues, low self esteem, fibromyalgia, phobias and/or are anxious, depressed, stressed, destructive, angry, lonely, abused and in or have been in the child welfare system. In regards to my approach, I am genuine and compassionate, but remain equally honest and direct. Rather than bombarding clients with endless questions, I aim to engage them through meaningful methods and effective interventions.
In my years of practice, my focus has been centred around individuals from different walks of life (i.e race, religion, gender, sexual orientation etc). Particularly, ones who have trauma, body image issues, low self esteem, fibromyalgia, phobias and/or are anxious, depressed, stressed, destructive, angry, lonely, abused and in or have been in the child welfare system. In regards to my approach, I am genuine and compassionate, but remain equally honest and direct. Rather than bombarding clients with endless questions, I aim to engage them through meaningful methods and effective interventions.
![Photo of Corinne Anne Sampson - Resilience Renewal Counselling Inc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99904931-62df-4fdb-8f61-7b105b33fd98/2/320x400.jpeg)
Resilience Renewal Counselling Inc
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3S
I have 20 years in the field of mental health and addictions and expertise in anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma, sleep issues, body image and disordered eating, personality disorders, anger issues, self-harm, suicide, grief and loss, chronic pain and ADHD.
We will work together to explore what issues are negatively impacting on your life and proceed in the direction and pace as you determine your goals and priorities once you invite me to help guide you towards improved wellness and peace of mind.
I have 20 years in the field of mental health and addictions and expertise in anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma, sleep issues, body image and disordered eating, personality disorders, anger issues, self-harm, suicide, grief and loss, chronic pain and ADHD.
We will work together to explore what issues are negatively impacting on your life and proceed in the direction and pace as you determine your goals and priorities once you invite me to help guide you towards improved wellness and peace of mind.
![Photo of Beatrice M. E. Breitling, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b136f45-0a8d-425f-9d9c-2976dc245c65/1/320x400.jpeg)
Depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, stress, burnout, perfectionism, self-esteem, chronic illness, grief and life transitions are the most prevalent mental health issues I am privileged to help others to overcome.
In times of life challenges, we suffer not only as individuals but also in our relationships. Since 2008, it has been my passion to support individuals, couples and families in their quest to turn personal and relationship challenges into opportunities for personal growth and greater connection. I feel privileged to work collaboratively with my clients to help them implement the positive changes they desire to achieve. I welcome you into an inspiring, trusting, safe, non-judgmental and confidential environment for you to discover your strengths, your challenges and your potential that is waiting to be unfolded.
Depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, stress, burnout, perfectionism, self-esteem, chronic illness, grief and life transitions are the most prevalent mental health issues I am privileged to help others to overcome.
In times of life challenges, we suffer not only as individuals but also in our relationships. Since 2008, it has been my passion to support individuals, couples and families in their quest to turn personal and relationship challenges into opportunities for personal growth and greater connection. I feel privileged to work collaboratively with my clients to help them implement the positive changes they desire to achieve. I welcome you into an inspiring, trusting, safe, non-judgmental and confidential environment for you to discover your strengths, your challenges and your potential that is waiting to be unfolded.
![Photo of Andrea Ennis - Dartmouth Psychological Services Inc., MSc, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b26dfbf-e24c-4d71-9cec-32533753f911/1/320x400.jpeg)
Reaching out for help is not easy, especially when it requires revealing emotional or psychological pain.
Dartmouth Psychological Services Inc. is a team of collaborative and caring practitioners who have been providing evidence-based mental health services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families in the HRM for over 20 years. Formerly Jacqueline Milner-Clerk & Associates, DPS now works collaboratively with Jacqueline's Breathe Mindfulness Centre, which specializes in offering mindfulness and compassion-based classes, workshops and group programs.
Reaching out for help is not easy, especially when it requires revealing emotional or psychological pain.
Dartmouth Psychological Services Inc. is a team of collaborative and caring practitioners who have been providing evidence-based mental health services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families in the HRM for over 20 years. Formerly Jacqueline Milner-Clerk & Associates, DPS now works collaboratively with Jacqueline's Breathe Mindfulness Centre, which specializes in offering mindfulness and compassion-based classes, workshops and group programs.
![Photo of Ena Vukatana, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/438f048d-d891-4e3d-a603-372d1afb2143/1/320x400.jpeg)
I view my role in therapy as that of a coach, who strives to help youth and their families to make meaningful changes in their lives. I value a collaborative approach, and always aim to foster a positive environment where clients feel supported in taking steps toward their goals. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, and offer treatment for anxiety, depression, coping with stress or life transitions, low self-esteem, behavioural challenges, and sleep difficulties. I also have expertise in working with youth experiencing challenges with chronic health conditions, medical and dental anxiety, medication taking, and pain.
I view my role in therapy as that of a coach, who strives to help youth and their families to make meaningful changes in their lives. I value a collaborative approach, and always aim to foster a positive environment where clients feel supported in taking steps toward their goals. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, and offer treatment for anxiety, depression, coping with stress or life transitions, low self-esteem, behavioural challenges, and sleep difficulties. I also have expertise in working with youth experiencing challenges with chronic health conditions, medical and dental anxiety, medication taking, and pain.
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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.