Chronic Pain Therapists in Courtice, ON

Photo of Rachael Pogue, MACP, RP(Q), CRPO, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Rachael Pogue
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q), CRPO
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Courtice, ON L1E  (Online Only)
Whether you’re navigating anxious thoughts/feelings, chronic pain, emotional difficulties, relationship challenges, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
Are you ready to take that first brave step toward healing and change, even if it feels daunting? Starting therapy and selecting a therapist can be challenging, and I deeply appreciate the courage it takes to reach out. I would be honoured to walk alongside you on your path to transformation and growth. My approach is centered on creating a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Together, we’ll build a trusting therapeutic relationship grounded in empathy, respect, and genuine care.
Whether you’re navigating anxious thoughts/feelings, chronic pain, emotional difficulties, relationship challenges, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
Are you ready to take that first brave step toward healing and change, even if it feels daunting? Starting therapy and selecting a therapist can be challenging, and I deeply appreciate the courage it takes to reach out. I would be honoured to walk alongside you on your path to transformation and growth. My approach is centered on creating a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Together, we’ll build a trusting therapeutic relationship grounded in empathy, respect, and genuine care.
(289) 312-1476 View (289) 312-1476
Photo of Pamela Young - Hope Harbour Psychotherapy
Hope Harbour Psychotherapy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Courtice, ON L1E
Ever catch yourself thinking, “Why does everything feel like such a mess?” Maybe it’s the pressure of balancing work, relationships, and family while still feeling like you’re not getting anywhere. Or you’re a parent determined to break old patterns with your kids, but somehow, the same issues keep showing up. Life can feel overwhelming, and you’re tired of quick fixes that never actually fix anything. At Hope Harbour Psychotherapy, we don’t believe in sugarcoating things or offering simple solutions. Therapy with us is about cutting through the surface and getting to the root of what’s really going on.
Ever catch yourself thinking, “Why does everything feel like such a mess?” Maybe it’s the pressure of balancing work, relationships, and family while still feeling like you’re not getting anywhere. Or you’re a parent determined to break old patterns with your kids, but somehow, the same issues keep showing up. Life can feel overwhelming, and you’re tired of quick fixes that never actually fix anything. At Hope Harbour Psychotherapy, we don’t believe in sugarcoating things or offering simple solutions. Therapy with us is about cutting through the surface and getting to the root of what’s really going on.
(289) 277-6909 View (289) 277-6909
Photo of Trina L Conley - TLC counselling, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
TLC counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Courtice, ON L1E
Do you struggle with your emotions, mental or physical health, or in relationships? Perhaps you are dealing with a challenging or traumatic situation in life, at work or school? Or you are feeling a more indescribable, general sense of instability but you don't understand why? First off, let me say you are not alone. Nobody is immune to developing life problems, experiencing traumatic incidences, struggling with life transitions, or developing mental or physical health issues that are difficult to cope with. Nobody is immune to times of feeling overwhelmed, over-stressed or confused; in fact, it is not all that uncommon.
Do you struggle with your emotions, mental or physical health, or in relationships? Perhaps you are dealing with a challenging or traumatic situation in life, at work or school? Or you are feeling a more indescribable, general sense of instability but you don't understand why? First off, let me say you are not alone. Nobody is immune to developing life problems, experiencing traumatic incidences, struggling with life transitions, or developing mental or physical health issues that are difficult to cope with. Nobody is immune to times of feeling overwhelmed, over-stressed or confused; in fact, it is not all that uncommon.
(289) 799-3785 View (289) 799-3785
Photo of Lidia Nikolic, MACP, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Lidia Nikolic
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Courtice, ON L1E  (Online Only)
Life can present us with unique challenges, and seeking support is a courageous step toward positive change. I believe in the power of empathy and genuine connection in creating a safe and supportive therapeutic space. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, navigating life transitions, or facing relationship difficulties, I am here to support you on your path to healing and growth. Together, we can work towards building resilience, developing effective coping strategies, and fostering a greater sense of well-being.
Life can present us with unique challenges, and seeking support is a courageous step toward positive change. I believe in the power of empathy and genuine connection in creating a safe and supportive therapeutic space. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, navigating life transitions, or facing relationship difficulties, I am here to support you on your path to healing and growth. Together, we can work towards building resilience, developing effective coping strategies, and fostering a greater sense of well-being.
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Photo of Ryan Walton, Registered Social Worker
Ryan Walton
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
Courtice, ON L1E
Adversity is one thing that we can come to expect in an increasingly demanding and stressful world. When adversity overwhelms us, it can impact those parts of our lives that are most meaningful. Whether adversity presents as emotion dysregulation, anxiety, depression, grief, interpersonal conflict, addiction, anger or loss; the impact can be devastating, undermining our sense of self and confidence. These issues are at the core of my practice.
Adversity is one thing that we can come to expect in an increasingly demanding and stressful world. When adversity overwhelms us, it can impact those parts of our lives that are most meaningful. Whether adversity presents as emotion dysregulation, anxiety, depression, grief, interpersonal conflict, addiction, anger or loss; the impact can be devastating, undermining our sense of self and confidence. These issues are at the core of my practice.
(289) 814-3619 View (289) 814-3619
Photo of Pamela Young, MA, RP, OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist
Pamela Young
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, OAMHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Courtice, ON L1E
How many times have you caught yourself thinking, “Seriously, what is going on with my life?” Maybe you’re feeling the weight of juggling work, strained relationships, and the constant pressure to keep it all together—while barely managing to stay afloat. If you’re a parent, you might be determined to do better for your kids, but sometimes, it feels like the old cycles are creeping back in. It's exhausting and can feel like nothing really sticks, no matter what you try. I don’t believe in quick fixes or easy answers—because, let’s be real, they don’t work in the long run!
How many times have you caught yourself thinking, “Seriously, what is going on with my life?” Maybe you’re feeling the weight of juggling work, strained relationships, and the constant pressure to keep it all together—while barely managing to stay afloat. If you’re a parent, you might be determined to do better for your kids, but sometimes, it feels like the old cycles are creeping back in. It's exhausting and can feel like nothing really sticks, no matter what you try. I don’t believe in quick fixes or easy answers—because, let’s be real, they don’t work in the long run!
(289) 207-6518 View (289) 207-6518
Photo of Akua Parham, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Akua Parham
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Courtice, ON L1E  (Online Only)
Struggling to manage work, parenting and family relationships can be difficult. What is helpful is taking the steps to recognize you need support, even though it is not an easy task to do so. Helping people to reach that goal has always been my passion. Recognizing and moving forward towards changing and breaking patterns of behaviour and / boundaries in relationships, may be what you need to alter your current path.
Struggling to manage work, parenting and family relationships can be difficult. What is helpful is taking the steps to recognize you need support, even though it is not an easy task to do so. Helping people to reach that goal has always been my passion. Recognizing and moving forward towards changing and breaking patterns of behaviour and / boundaries in relationships, may be what you need to alter your current path.
(289) 514-5865 View (289) 514-5865
Photo of Laura Gillies - Clarington Total Wellness, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Clarington Total Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Courtice, ON L1E
Anyone who is reading this looking for support needs to be commended on their strength and courage in reaching out. My role is to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to have meaningful and insightful conversations about your feelings, and discuss problems openly and honestly. By having a safe and supportive space, together we can explore the challenges you are going through and set achievable goals and develop healthy effective coping strategies. When you create skills to deal with difficult situations it allows you to be your best self and to be able to work through future challenging situations.
Anyone who is reading this looking for support needs to be commended on their strength and courage in reaching out. My role is to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to have meaningful and insightful conversations about your feelings, and discuss problems openly and honestly. By having a safe and supportive space, together we can explore the challenges you are going through and set achievable goals and develop healthy effective coping strategies. When you create skills to deal with difficult situations it allows you to be your best self and to be able to work through future challenging situations.
(289) 301-8795 View (289) 301-8795
Photo of Katie Richardson, MA, HBA, CYW, Registered Psychotherapist
Katie Richardson
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, HBA, CYW
Verified Verified
Courtice, ON L1E
Do you feel chronically overwhelmed, confused, unhappy, or unsure of yourself and you're not quite sure why? Are you processing a significant loss or change in life and working through what it means to you? I focus on providing a safe, inclusive, non-judgmental, trauma-informed, compassionate, ND-affirming space to support you as you in make connections, process trauma and grief, develop new coping strategies, set healthy boundaries, build secure attachments, adapt to change, and live confidently in line with your personal values to claim the rich and meaningful life you deserve.
Do you feel chronically overwhelmed, confused, unhappy, or unsure of yourself and you're not quite sure why? Are you processing a significant loss or change in life and working through what it means to you? I focus on providing a safe, inclusive, non-judgmental, trauma-informed, compassionate, ND-affirming space to support you as you in make connections, process trauma and grief, develop new coping strategies, set healthy boundaries, build secure attachments, adapt to change, and live confidently in line with your personal values to claim the rich and meaningful life you deserve.
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Photo of Cynthia Perry Brown, RN, RP, BScN, BEd, MEd(Psy, Registered Psychotherapist
Cynthia Perry Brown
Registered Psychotherapist, RN, RP, BScN, BEd, MEd(Psy
Verified Verified
Courtice, ON L1E
Not accepting new clients
I work with adults who are feeling distressed by issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, workplace stress, family conflict, loss, physical illness, pain, and self-esteem. Often these difficulties are rooted in life experiences that have contributed to feelings of sadness, anger, self-doubt, and shame. In our work together you can learn to understand and change repetitive patterns of thinking and behavior, and learn to be more compassionate with yourself. We will also identify new skills and strategies that can help you to make positive changes in your life
I work with adults who are feeling distressed by issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, workplace stress, family conflict, loss, physical illness, pain, and self-esteem. Often these difficulties are rooted in life experiences that have contributed to feelings of sadness, anger, self-doubt, and shame. In our work together you can learn to understand and change repetitive patterns of thinking and behavior, and learn to be more compassionate with yourself. We will also identify new skills and strategies that can help you to make positive changes in your life
(289) 312-4863 View (289) 312-4863

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa Trepanier, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Lisa Trepanier
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bowmanville, ON L1C
Waitlist for new clients
I am dually trained as a Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist. I am able to provide thorough examinations of your brain health, mental health, and/or personality. I actively provide various forms of psychological treatment related to these issues. I taught at York University, am on Faculty at the University of Toronto and regularly attend workshops/conferences, which helps to keep my knowledge current and practical. Common referral issues relate to work, mood, coping, chronic stress, chronic pain, or an acquired problem. Whether you struggle with your physical and/or mental health, I can assist you with improving both.
I am dually trained as a Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist. I am able to provide thorough examinations of your brain health, mental health, and/or personality. I actively provide various forms of psychological treatment related to these issues. I taught at York University, am on Faculty at the University of Toronto and regularly attend workshops/conferences, which helps to keep my knowledge current and practical. Common referral issues relate to work, mood, coping, chronic stress, chronic pain, or an acquired problem. Whether you struggle with your physical and/or mental health, I can assist you with improving both.
(844) 332-2482 View (844) 332-2482
Photo of Brooke Morgan, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Brooke Morgan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1M  (Online Only)
I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, addiction, chronic pain, grief and loss, identity and self-esteem, parenting challenges and beyond.
As a psychodynamic psychotherapist my approach to therapy focuses on understanding and exploring the unconscious processes that influence your behaviour, emotions, and thoughts. We will explore unconscious motivations, the influence of early relationships, coping strategies, and relationship dynamics through various modalities that are tailored to each individual. In a safe and empathetic environment, we collaborate to cultivate self-awareness, which fosters emotional well-being and healthier relationships. The therapeutic process I practice is client led, relational, systemic, and process oriented.
I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, addiction, chronic pain, grief and loss, identity and self-esteem, parenting challenges and beyond.
As a psychodynamic psychotherapist my approach to therapy focuses on understanding and exploring the unconscious processes that influence your behaviour, emotions, and thoughts. We will explore unconscious motivations, the influence of early relationships, coping strategies, and relationship dynamics through various modalities that are tailored to each individual. In a safe and empathetic environment, we collaborate to cultivate self-awareness, which fosters emotional well-being and healthier relationships. The therapeutic process I practice is client led, relational, systemic, and process oriented.
(289) 814-8848 View (289) 814-8848
Photo of Allison Balkaran, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Allison Balkaran
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1N
Areas of treatment include: Trauma focused therapy, Couples therapy, pain management, existential crises and challenges with depressive and anxious symptoms.
I am by brand, a Rogerian therapist with an eclectic approach to treatment. I tend to marry holistic approaches to evidence based approaches. Creativity flows throughout the therapeutic process and my hope is that therapy can be an enjoyable experience despite the challenges in the therapeutic journey.
Areas of treatment include: Trauma focused therapy, Couples therapy, pain management, existential crises and challenges with depressive and anxious symptoms.
I am by brand, a Rogerian therapist with an eclectic approach to treatment. I tend to marry holistic approaches to evidence based approaches. Creativity flows throughout the therapeutic process and my hope is that therapy can be an enjoyable experience despite the challenges in the therapeutic journey.
(289) 512-2850 View (289) 512-2850
Photo of Arshdeep Bath - A&B Counselling and Psychotherapy Services, MACP, BSc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
A&B Counselling and Psychotherapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1M
Navigating trauma, chronic pain, and sleep issues, can be an overwhelming journey, but you don't have to face it alone.
Struggling with trauma, chronic pain, sleep issues, anxiety, or depression? I offer compassionate, trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in English, Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi. I aim to create a supportive environment for healing, recognizing the links between trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. You may feel overwhelmed and seek relief, understanding, and a path to reclaiming your sense of safety. I tailor holistic approaches to help you manage symptoms and enhance your well-being. Whether you're coping with chronic illness or aiming to improve your sleep, I am here to support you
Navigating trauma, chronic pain, and sleep issues, can be an overwhelming journey, but you don't have to face it alone.
Struggling with trauma, chronic pain, sleep issues, anxiety, or depression? I offer compassionate, trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in English, Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi. I aim to create a supportive environment for healing, recognizing the links between trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. You may feel overwhelmed and seek relief, understanding, and a path to reclaiming your sense of safety. I tailor holistic approaches to help you manage symptoms and enhance your well-being. Whether you're coping with chronic illness or aiming to improve your sleep, I am here to support you
(289) 514-0428 View (289) 514-0428
Photo of Rhonda Thompson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rhonda Thompson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1H  (Online Only)
I also support folks as they find their way through life's transitions, or experience chronic illness/ chronic pain or a difficult diagnosis, grief/bereavement, depression, anxiety and trauma processing.
At some point in our lives we all struggle with something that feels super heavy and is weighing us down. Is there hurt, anger, grief, regret or relational discord that you haven’t yet made eye contact with or spoken aloud about? It’s my passion and privilege to help you find your way. You don’t need to do it alone. To explore or unpack life's pain and challenges is a courageous step that can lead to meaningful outcomes of growth, healing and a greater sense of wellness. Since each one of us is unique, I intentionally engage in a collaborative approach which respects your individual strengths, experiences and needs.
I also support folks as they find their way through life's transitions, or experience chronic illness/ chronic pain or a difficult diagnosis, grief/bereavement, depression, anxiety and trauma processing.
At some point in our lives we all struggle with something that feels super heavy and is weighing us down. Is there hurt, anger, grief, regret or relational discord that you haven’t yet made eye contact with or spoken aloud about? It’s my passion and privilege to help you find your way. You don’t need to do it alone. To explore or unpack life's pain and challenges is a courageous step that can lead to meaningful outcomes of growth, healing and a greater sense of wellness. Since each one of us is unique, I intentionally engage in a collaborative approach which respects your individual strengths, experiences and needs.
(289) 797-2951 View (289) 797-2951
Photo of Brendan Mclarty (Psychotherapy For You), MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Brendan Mclarty (Psychotherapy For You)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1G  (Online Only)
grief and/or chronic illness.
My name is Brendan and I am a Registered Social Worker. I hold a Masters degree is Social Work from the University of Toronto. I provide virtual counselling to individuals living in Ontario. Encountering issues, no matter the severity, is a normal and natural part of our lives. However, it is my belief that our unique life experiences require a personalized approach to help us reach our goals in the face of adversity. One size does not fit all. Sessions with me are experiential in nature, with a focus on developing present moment awareness of one’s inner and outer world. Every person possesses an expert knowledge of themselves.
grief and/or chronic illness.
My name is Brendan and I am a Registered Social Worker. I hold a Masters degree is Social Work from the University of Toronto. I provide virtual counselling to individuals living in Ontario. Encountering issues, no matter the severity, is a normal and natural part of our lives. However, it is my belief that our unique life experiences require a personalized approach to help us reach our goals in the face of adversity. One size does not fit all. Sessions with me are experiential in nature, with a focus on developing present moment awareness of one’s inner and outer world. Every person possesses an expert knowledge of themselves.
(249) 523-3183 View (249) 523-3183
Photo of Jennifer Longpre, BA, BEd, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Jennifer Longpre
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, BEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Haydon, ON L1C  (Online Only)
I offer support in the here and now should you be neurodiverse or neurotypical and experiencing difficulties with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, chronic pain, life transitions, family, sexuality or relationship issues-monogamy/consensual non-monogamy.
Taking the first step toward therapy takes courage and can feel a bit daunting. I understand the significance of this important step. I strive to create a space where you can feel safe to be seen, heard and deeply understood. Through online sessions, in the spirit of relational Gestalt therapy, we will work together at your own unique pace to engage with emotions, sensations and experiences. Collaboratively, we will uncover patterns, both beneficial and hindering, with an aim to cultivate greater resilience, vitality and joy in day to day life.
I offer support in the here and now should you be neurodiverse or neurotypical and experiencing difficulties with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, chronic pain, life transitions, family, sexuality or relationship issues-monogamy/consensual non-monogamy.
Taking the first step toward therapy takes courage and can feel a bit daunting. I understand the significance of this important step. I strive to create a space where you can feel safe to be seen, heard and deeply understood. Through online sessions, in the spirit of relational Gestalt therapy, we will work together at your own unique pace to engage with emotions, sensations and experiences. Collaboratively, we will uncover patterns, both beneficial and hindering, with an aim to cultivate greater resilience, vitality and joy in day to day life.
(437) 747-8835 View (437) 747-8835
Photo of Candidar Oreko, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Candidar Oreko
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Whitby, ON L1N
Are you going through a transition in your life? Do you want something different for yourself or for your relationships? Are you having racing thoughts, worrying about the future, feeling stuck and don't know where to go? Having the courage to ask for help is the first step. Beginning therapy can be a daunting task but here you are. You have made that first step toward healing and sometimes; that one step is all it takes. My goal as a therapist is to empower adults and seniors with the skills to overcome anger, fear, grief, pain, trauma, anxiety and depression.
Are you going through a transition in your life? Do you want something different for yourself or for your relationships? Are you having racing thoughts, worrying about the future, feeling stuck and don't know where to go? Having the courage to ask for help is the first step. Beginning therapy can be a daunting task but here you are. You have made that first step toward healing and sometimes; that one step is all it takes. My goal as a therapist is to empower adults and seniors with the skills to overcome anger, fear, grief, pain, trauma, anxiety and depression.
(289) 271-1682 View (289) 271-1682
Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Whitby, ON L1N  (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.
(236) 239-5085 View (236) 239-5085
Photo of Kristin Eastgate, MACP IP, BAHons, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Kristin Eastgate
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP IP, BAHons
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1R  (Online Only)
Additionally, those that struggle with fertility, chronic pain and the surrounding responses.
Hello! I’m Kristin. My intention as a counsellor is to be a guide in helping you approach personal growth, health, and wellbeing. During our time together, you can expect energy, enthusiasm, and passion in supporting your goals and ambitions. I have a great understanding of physical, mental, and systems issues that are barriers to seeking out timely and appropriate care. I enjoy working with adults and youth struggling with mental health, substance use disorders, grief, mindfulness, trauma, and health education and promotion.
Additionally, those that struggle with fertility, chronic pain and the surrounding responses.
Hello! I’m Kristin. My intention as a counsellor is to be a guide in helping you approach personal growth, health, and wellbeing. During our time together, you can expect energy, enthusiasm, and passion in supporting your goals and ambitions. I have a great understanding of physical, mental, and systems issues that are barriers to seeking out timely and appropriate care. I enjoy working with adults and youth struggling with mental health, substance use disorders, grief, mindfulness, trauma, and health education and promotion.
(289) 401-5272 View (289) 401-5272

See more therapy options for Courtice

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.