Chronic Illness Therapists in Kitchener, ON

Photo of Beth Van Lingen, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Beth Van Lingen
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2C
My areas of focus include individual and relational sessions in support of folks in the LGBTQ+, neurodiverse, and chronic illness and disability communities and their loved ones.
Personally and professionally, I have experienced the power of finding language that describes who we are and of being seen and supported in telling and retelling the stories that shape us. One of the ways we make sense of our experiences is through stories, both that we hold internally and that we share with others. It has been my honour and joy to join people in finding new and old meaning in their stories.
My areas of focus include individual and relational sessions in support of folks in the LGBTQ+, neurodiverse, and chronic illness and disability communities and their loved ones.
Personally and professionally, I have experienced the power of finding language that describes who we are and of being seen and supported in telling and retelling the stories that shape us. One of the ways we make sense of our experiences is through stories, both that we hold internally and that we share with others. It has been my honour and joy to join people in finding new and old meaning in their stories.
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Photo of Holly Mathers, BA, MTS, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Holly Mathers
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MTS, RP
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2G  (Online Only)
We are here to team up with you in phone or video sessions & can support you with issues you're facing in life relating to your gender identity, chronic illness, grief & other areas of concern. Focusing on your specific situation, we will work together to find options you find most helpful. Match with one of our therapists to meet your needs throughout Ontario. Contact us today to book an appointment with the best fit for you! We have therapy sessions available within a week so you can move forward with your wellness now. We are also able to access collaborative psychiatrists by video.
We are here to team up with you in phone or video sessions & can support you with issues you're facing in life relating to your gender identity, chronic illness, grief & other areas of concern. Focusing on your specific situation, we will work together to find options you find most helpful. Match with one of our therapists to meet your needs throughout Ontario. Contact us today to book an appointment with the best fit for you! We have therapy sessions available within a week so you can move forward with your wellness now. We are also able to access collaborative psychiatrists by video.
(855) 980-2104 View (855) 980-2104
Photo of Soha Elsayed, MSW, RSW, MBA, Registered Social Worker
Soha Elsayed
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2N  (Online Only)
Throughout my professional experience as a clinician, I have had the privilege and honor to help thousands of people like yourself with a wide range of issues like depression, anxiety, BPD, addiction, grief, parenting, chronic illness.
Being anxious, sad, overwhelmed or having no hope can have a negative impact on your physical and mental health. Seeking help might not be easy; and opening up and revealing yourself in therapy can be intimidating. This is why most people who suffer mentally and emotionally, do not seek help, often being forced to cope in unhealthy ways to seek temporary relief. But you are here because you are seeking help, congratulations for taking your first step towards healing!
Throughout my professional experience as a clinician, I have had the privilege and honor to help thousands of people like yourself with a wide range of issues like depression, anxiety, BPD, addiction, grief, parenting, chronic illness.
Being anxious, sad, overwhelmed or having no hope can have a negative impact on your physical and mental health. Seeking help might not be easy; and opening up and revealing yourself in therapy can be intimidating. This is why most people who suffer mentally and emotionally, do not seek help, often being forced to cope in unhealthy ways to seek temporary relief. But you are here because you are seeking help, congratulations for taking your first step towards healing!
(226) 781-3867 View (226) 781-3867
Photo of Phil Naylor, BA, MA, CH, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Phil Naylor
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, CH, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2A
Utilizing hypnosis I also work with health-related issues such as chronic pain, chronic illness (e.
Are you stuck in a loop of anxiety, negative thinking, emotional turmoil and/or self sabotaging behaviours? Are you tired of suffering, and feeling overwhelmed, and powerless? Do you feel the need for a real solution but have been frustrated by limited or superficial approaches when you have tried therapy before? Through my experience in treating thousands of clients I’ve discovered what is most effective in solving problems and just as importantly, how to help my clients understand themselves and the root of their problem. I empower them with effective tools and insights so they can also coach themselves as they move forward.
Utilizing hypnosis I also work with health-related issues such as chronic pain, chronic illness (e.
Are you stuck in a loop of anxiety, negative thinking, emotional turmoil and/or self sabotaging behaviours? Are you tired of suffering, and feeling overwhelmed, and powerless? Do you feel the need for a real solution but have been frustrated by limited or superficial approaches when you have tried therapy before? Through my experience in treating thousands of clients I’ve discovered what is most effective in solving problems and just as importantly, how to help my clients understand themselves and the root of their problem. I empower them with effective tools and insights so they can also coach themselves as they move forward.
(226) 909-7066 View (226) 909-7066
Photo of Sue Klassen, MA, BEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Sue Klassen
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BEd, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2M
What might it feel like to release your stress and trauma and feel restored? To finally feel at home in your body? To feel more free to move towards your goals? I use evidence-based cognitive-somatic approaches, including Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) to release stress, pain, depression, and anxiety, and efficiently overcome PTSD and trauma. I have strong affinity for working with neurodivergent individuals (ADHD, ASD, HSP). Whether you are experiencing physical, emotional, or interpersonal stress or trauma, find lasting relief here.
What might it feel like to release your stress and trauma and feel restored? To finally feel at home in your body? To feel more free to move towards your goals? I use evidence-based cognitive-somatic approaches, including Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) to release stress, pain, depression, and anxiety, and efficiently overcome PTSD and trauma. I have strong affinity for working with neurodivergent individuals (ADHD, ASD, HSP). Whether you are experiencing physical, emotional, or interpersonal stress or trauma, find lasting relief here.
(226) 242-9885 View (226) 242-9885
Photo of Gillian Flynn, MACP, CCC, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Gillian Flynn
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CCC, MSc
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2H
Hi! I'm Gillian (she/her) and I am a Registered Psychotherapist and a Canadian Certified Counsellor. I have studied mental health across the lifespan and have over 15 years of experience working in healthcare. I believe that at the heart of being human is the desire for connection with others and our world. But sometimes it can feel like we are stuck and disconnected. As a therapist, I set out to build strong connections with my clients, making them feel seen, heard and cared for. Together we set goals and make a treatment plan, taking into account each individual’s unique experiences, culture, and beliefs.
Hi! I'm Gillian (she/her) and I am a Registered Psychotherapist and a Canadian Certified Counsellor. I have studied mental health across the lifespan and have over 15 years of experience working in healthcare. I believe that at the heart of being human is the desire for connection with others and our world. But sometimes it can feel like we are stuck and disconnected. As a therapist, I set out to build strong connections with my clients, making them feel seen, heard and cared for. Together we set goals and make a treatment plan, taking into account each individual’s unique experiences, culture, and beliefs.
(548) 490-1499 View (548) 490-1499
Photo of Anne Mary Schnarr, MSW, RSW, IAAP, Registered Social Worker
Anne Mary Schnarr
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, IAAP
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2A
I am a Jungian Psychoanalyst offering Jungian Analysis to individuals who want a deeper understanding of themselves. For many reasons, these persons feel emotionally in pain, conflicted or unbalanced in their inner and/or outer life and would benefit from exploring the deep rooted causes of relationship problems and unproductive emotional patterns. The direction of therapy is to look to the past and to the unconscious determinants of behaviour but also to open to the creative and positive movements of the psyche that offer a way forward even in the face of the greatest difficulties or trauma.
I am a Jungian Psychoanalyst offering Jungian Analysis to individuals who want a deeper understanding of themselves. For many reasons, these persons feel emotionally in pain, conflicted or unbalanced in their inner and/or outer life and would benefit from exploring the deep rooted causes of relationship problems and unproductive emotional patterns. The direction of therapy is to look to the past and to the unconscious determinants of behaviour but also to open to the creative and positive movements of the psyche that offer a way forward even in the face of the greatest difficulties or trauma.
(519) 807-1407 View (519) 807-1407
Photo of Milica Malinovic, BSc, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Milica Malinovic
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MA
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2E
Life is filled with challenging decisions and choices that can be overwhelming. Milica’s commitment to you is to provide a client-centered experience that empowers you to navigate these challenges with confidence. It will be easy for you to openly share your hardships as Milica is able to bring a wealth of experience in creating a non-judgmental space. Through motivational interviewing and empathetic understanding, she aims to support you in gaining the confidence needed to make everyday decisions that align with your authentic self.
Life is filled with challenging decisions and choices that can be overwhelming. Milica’s commitment to you is to provide a client-centered experience that empowers you to navigate these challenges with confidence. It will be easy for you to openly share your hardships as Milica is able to bring a wealth of experience in creating a non-judgmental space. Through motivational interviewing and empathetic understanding, she aims to support you in gaining the confidence needed to make everyday decisions that align with your authentic self.
(226) 458-4418 View (226) 458-4418
Photo of Julie Gosen, BA, MA, `RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Julie Gosen
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, `RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Waitlist for new clients
Life is truly filled with so many layers (just like an onion!) which can make it hard to know where to start when it comes to counselling. Hi, I'm Julie (she/her) and I deeply believe in the beauty of connection. My own journey with mental health and being neurodivergent has truly inspired my passion for this field. I work with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, chronic pain, ADHD/ASD, self-esteem, and couples counselling. I am also deeply passionate about working with 2slgbtqia+ individuals and the queer community.
Life is truly filled with so many layers (just like an onion!) which can make it hard to know where to start when it comes to counselling. Hi, I'm Julie (she/her) and I deeply believe in the beauty of connection. My own journey with mental health and being neurodivergent has truly inspired my passion for this field. I work with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, chronic pain, ADHD/ASD, self-esteem, and couples counselling. I am also deeply passionate about working with 2slgbtqia+ individuals and the queer community.
(548) 457-2264 View (548) 457-2264
Photo of Shalyn Dussiaume-Good - Shalyn Dussiaume Counselling, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Shalyn Dussiaume Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2P
Shalyn Dussiaume-Good is a Registered Psychotherapist and is currently working with a wide variety of clients with varying life issues. Her therapy models include using CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy).
Shalyn Dussiaume-Good is a Registered Psychotherapist and is currently working with a wide variety of clients with varying life issues. Her therapy models include using CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy).
(226) 270-8329 View (226) 270-8329
Photo of Christi-an Slomka, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Christi-an Slomka
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Are you feeling burnt out, overwhelmed or anxious? Do you struggle to know/honour the true needs of your body, mind and heart? Are boundaries difficult for you? Do you wish for less stress and more balance and deeper rest?
Are you feeling burnt out, overwhelmed or anxious? Do you struggle to know/honour the true needs of your body, mind and heart? Are boundaries difficult for you? Do you wish for less stress and more balance and deeper rest?
(437) 291-7374 View (437) 291-7374
Photo of Sandy Jardine Natalia Antunes - Kitchener Therapy Collaborative, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kitchener Therapy Collaborative
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2M
We are social workers with a combined 50 years of experience, providing trauma-informed therapy and consultation services in Waterloo Region. We work collaboratively with our clients to establish a trusting, safe, and purposeful relationship. Throughout the pandemic, we witnessed a significant increase in mental health concerns such as social isolation, anxiety, depression, suicidality, addictions, trauma and grief. As a result, we decided that a collaborative approach to healing was more conducive to recovery. Our partnership was formed on this principle - connections heal!
We are social workers with a combined 50 years of experience, providing trauma-informed therapy and consultation services in Waterloo Region. We work collaboratively with our clients to establish a trusting, safe, and purposeful relationship. Throughout the pandemic, we witnessed a significant increase in mental health concerns such as social isolation, anxiety, depression, suicidality, addictions, trauma and grief. As a result, we decided that a collaborative approach to healing was more conducive to recovery. Our partnership was formed on this principle - connections heal!
(548) 457-2266 View (548) 457-2266
Photo of Catherine Kovacich, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Catherine Kovacich
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2G
Waitlist for new clients
You know how sometimes in life we feel like we should just know how to deal? Well I have extensive experience working with people who have felt that way, and who feel like they are struggling sometimes just to make it through their days. I work with issues that are sometimes too difficult to talk about such as: professional burnout, vicarious trauma/compassion fatigue, caregiver burnout, relationship conflict that impacts personal and professional well-being, even suicidal thoughts. I am able to help to understand, and most importantly, help guide and support change in functioning and behaviour.
You know how sometimes in life we feel like we should just know how to deal? Well I have extensive experience working with people who have felt that way, and who feel like they are struggling sometimes just to make it through their days. I work with issues that are sometimes too difficult to talk about such as: professional burnout, vicarious trauma/compassion fatigue, caregiver burnout, relationship conflict that impacts personal and professional well-being, even suicidal thoughts. I am able to help to understand, and most importantly, help guide and support change in functioning and behaviour.
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Photo of Rania Ibrahim Ambrad, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rania Ibrahim Ambrad
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2H  (Online Only)
I am a queer, neurodivergent, Palestinian-Egyptian and Filipino cis woman and racialized settler in Turtle Island on the stolen lands of what is known today as Ontario, Canada. My lived experiences as a biracial, disabled, queer person from a working-class immigrant family fuel my passion and ongoing commitment to bring culturally responsive, intersectional feminist and decolonial approaches to wellness, healing, and relationship building into my practice.
I am a queer, neurodivergent, Palestinian-Egyptian and Filipino cis woman and racialized settler in Turtle Island on the stolen lands of what is known today as Ontario, Canada. My lived experiences as a biracial, disabled, queer person from a working-class immigrant family fuel my passion and ongoing commitment to bring culturally responsive, intersectional feminist and decolonial approaches to wellness, healing, and relationship building into my practice.
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Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2E  (Online Only)
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 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.
(437) 747-8880 View (437) 747-8880
Photo of Street Therapy, MPsy, RP, (CRPO), CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Street Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MPsy, RP, (CRPO), CCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Operating for 16+ years, Street Therapy is a group practice, providing mental health services for clients across the lifespan. Our practitioners come from diverse academic, religious, spiritual, and cultural backgrounds, practicing within the neurodiversity and anti-oppressive frameworks. We strive to provide a safe space for clinicians and clients alike to explore and engage in collaborative, and respectful, psychotherapeutic relationships. Bernadette Street, clinical supervisor and director of Street Therapy, has over 15 years of experience working with children, youth and adults. Her expertise informs the work of our team.
Operating for 16+ years, Street Therapy is a group practice, providing mental health services for clients across the lifespan. Our practitioners come from diverse academic, religious, spiritual, and cultural backgrounds, practicing within the neurodiversity and anti-oppressive frameworks. We strive to provide a safe space for clinicians and clients alike to explore and engage in collaborative, and respectful, psychotherapeutic relationships. Bernadette Street, clinical supervisor and director of Street Therapy, has over 15 years of experience working with children, youth and adults. Her expertise informs the work of our team.
(647) 496-5504 View (647) 496-5504
Photo of Stephanie McAlister - Virtual Connect, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Virtual Connect
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2G  (Online Only)
Are you in a place where you are feeling overwhelmed and wanting to begin prioritizing your mental health, but not sure where to start? If you are wanting to start your counselling journey with virtual counselling we are here to help! Virtual Connect is an online group practice with multiple clinicians who each specialize in different areas. This means that no matter what brings you into counselling, we will find someone who best fits your unique needs. Reach out to discuss your ideal fit for counselling.
Are you in a place where you are feeling overwhelmed and wanting to begin prioritizing your mental health, but not sure where to start? If you are wanting to start your counselling journey with virtual counselling we are here to help! Virtual Connect is an online group practice with multiple clinicians who each specialize in different areas. This means that no matter what brings you into counselling, we will find someone who best fits your unique needs. Reach out to discuss your ideal fit for counselling.
(548) 490-2630 View (548) 490-2630
Photo of Shelley Restall, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Shelley Restall
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
I help anxious, perfectionistic, and highly sensitive people transform their relationship with their body to feel calm and confident as they navigate their life forward. You feel exhausted as your mind and body remind you each moment of every day of being consumed with anxiety. Not being understood by those closest to you, has you feeling alone. You may have ideas about what led to this, or maybe it came suddenly and you want to understand why. It’s here and feels fierce as it feels all consuming. You are trapped in your mind, ruminating about what has happened, while you wish it was different. You feel "stuck,” and want a change.
I help anxious, perfectionistic, and highly sensitive people transform their relationship with their body to feel calm and confident as they navigate their life forward. You feel exhausted as your mind and body remind you each moment of every day of being consumed with anxiety. Not being understood by those closest to you, has you feeling alone. You may have ideas about what led to this, or maybe it came suddenly and you want to understand why. It’s here and feels fierce as it feels all consuming. You are trapped in your mind, ruminating about what has happened, while you wish it was different. You feel "stuck,” and want a change.
(226) 778-5349 View (226) 778-5349
Photo of Humaira Amir - Humaira Amir Counselling Services, MA, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Humaira Amir Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2P
Humaira Amir received her Master of Counselling Psychology from the Adler School of Psychology. She has 20-years of counselling experience working with children, teens, adults, couples and families. Humaira is skilled in treating a variety of concerns, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, school refusal, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, parenting/co-parenting skills, relationship issues and anger management. She also has experience facilitating group programs for parenting and anger management.
Humaira Amir received her Master of Counselling Psychology from the Adler School of Psychology. She has 20-years of counselling experience working with children, teens, adults, couples and families. Humaira is skilled in treating a variety of concerns, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, school refusal, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, parenting/co-parenting skills, relationship issues and anger management. She also has experience facilitating group programs for parenting and anger management.
(226) 212-7948 View (226) 212-7948
Photo of Leanne Sawchuk, DipTIRP, BA, RP, CTIC, Registered Psychotherapist
Leanne Sawchuk
Registered Psychotherapist, DipTIRP, BA, RP, CTIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H  (Online Only)
Life can be overwhelming at times and it often takes courage and bravery to open the door to something new and to something different. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed or disconnected or maybe you need to better understand and work through what is happening in your life right now. I specialize in supporting individuals with eating disorders, body image issues, anxiety and self-esteem, addictions, relationship issues, and trauma. Together we will explore what is happening for you interpersonally and relationally, while making sense of the feelings, thoughts, and behaviours that are holding you back or causing you emotional pain.
Life can be overwhelming at times and it often takes courage and bravery to open the door to something new and to something different. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed or disconnected or maybe you need to better understand and work through what is happening in your life right now. I specialize in supporting individuals with eating disorders, body image issues, anxiety and self-esteem, addictions, relationship issues, and trauma. Together we will explore what is happening for you interpersonally and relationally, while making sense of the feelings, thoughts, and behaviours that are holding you back or causing you emotional pain.
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Photo of Chelsea Gay, MA, BA, TITC-CT, Registered Psychotherapist
Chelsea Gay
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA, TITC-CT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2A  (Online Only)
I love supporting individuals experiencing symptoms from trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, codependency, and low self-worth/self-esteem. We will explore how the previous experiences you've encountered and the relationships you have had in your life impact the way we view ourselves and interact with the world around us. I like to use a variety of tools to aid in symptom management while also working with the root cause. My practice is trauma-informed and attachment-focused.
I love supporting individuals experiencing symptoms from trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, codependency, and low self-worth/self-esteem. We will explore how the previous experiences you've encountered and the relationships you have had in your life impact the way we view ourselves and interact with the world around us. I like to use a variety of tools to aid in symptom management while also working with the root cause. My practice is trauma-informed and attachment-focused.
(548) 457-2074 View (548) 457-2074
Photo of Mary Soppitt, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Mary Soppitt
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2M
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome here! Whatever brought you to this space, I want you to know you are welcome and supported. I view the therapeutic journey, as a client welcoming me to walk alongside them as they walk on the pathway of their life, and I don’t take this invitation lightly. I can understand it can be vulnerable to reach out for support and I honor your bravery in taking the first step. I hold a strong belief in the expertise of clients when it comes to their own lives, and as a therapist, my role is to support and guide you in processing and uncovering what's happening for you, in your internal world.
Welcome here! Whatever brought you to this space, I want you to know you are welcome and supported. I view the therapeutic journey, as a client welcoming me to walk alongside them as they walk on the pathway of their life, and I don’t take this invitation lightly. I can understand it can be vulnerable to reach out for support and I honor your bravery in taking the first step. I hold a strong belief in the expertise of clients when it comes to their own lives, and as a therapist, my role is to support and guide you in processing and uncovering what's happening for you, in your internal world.
(548) 457-1530 View (548) 457-1530
Photo of Timothy S Eddy, MMT, Registered Psychotherapist
Timothy S Eddy
Registered Psychotherapist, MMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H  (Online Only)
Are you a young adult or adult who is experiencing depression and anxiety? I am here for you! It is inevitable that at some points in our life we will become discouraged. We find ourselves stuck in situations we never asked for with expectations that we can’t meet. There is nothing wrong with you. Life is difficult at times. Walk with me as we explore the beauty of our emotions - difficult ones included - and appreciate how through understanding them more deeply we can transform our lives for the better.
Are you a young adult or adult who is experiencing depression and anxiety? I am here for you! It is inevitable that at some points in our life we will become discouraged. We find ourselves stuck in situations we never asked for with expectations that we can’t meet. There is nothing wrong with you. Life is difficult at times. Walk with me as we explore the beauty of our emotions - difficult ones included - and appreciate how through understanding them more deeply we can transform our lives for the better.
(226) 779-4104 View (226) 779-4104
Photo of Des Mc Enaney Emdr Consultant, BSW, RSW, MSc, Registered Social Worker
Des Mc Enaney Emdr Consultant
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW, MSc
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2H  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with trauma or PTSD? Does stress, anxiety, depression, or grief impact your relationships or ability to function day to day? Do you feel ‘stuck’ or overwhelmed by it all? With over twenty years of clinical experience as a social worker and psychotherapist, coupled with extensive training, I know that change is possible and that your present situation can change for the better. Trauma used to be thought of as a permanent state but not anymore. I have spent thousands of hours helping people get past their past and recover from trauma.
Do you struggle with trauma or PTSD? Does stress, anxiety, depression, or grief impact your relationships or ability to function day to day? Do you feel ‘stuck’ or overwhelmed by it all? With over twenty years of clinical experience as a social worker and psychotherapist, coupled with extensive training, I know that change is possible and that your present situation can change for the better. Trauma used to be thought of as a permanent state but not anymore. I have spent thousands of hours helping people get past their past and recover from trauma.
(226) 799-2467 View (226) 799-2467
Photo of Devyn Eadie, RP, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Devyn Eadie
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2K
Do you find yourself often thinking negatively about yourself? Do you struggle with confidence and feeling good about yourself? Do you feel like your life is out of your control? Do you just need someone to talk to? Do you need help reaching your goals? If any of these questions resonate with you, we could be a good fit. I have a special interest in working with those struggling with low self-esteem, poor body image or body dysmorphia, and disordered eating or eating disorders. I also enjoy working with neurodivergent individuals as I have ADHD myself and know what that struggle can be like.
Do you find yourself often thinking negatively about yourself? Do you struggle with confidence and feeling good about yourself? Do you feel like your life is out of your control? Do you just need someone to talk to? Do you need help reaching your goals? If any of these questions resonate with you, we could be a good fit. I have a special interest in working with those struggling with low self-esteem, poor body image or body dysmorphia, and disordered eating or eating disorders. I also enjoy working with neurodivergent individuals as I have ADHD myself and know what that struggle can be like.
(548) 490-0841 View (548) 490-0841
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Chronic Illness Counsellors

How does therapy for chronic illness work?

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

Can therapy help with physical symptoms of chronic illness?

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

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic illness?

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

How long does therapy for chronic illness take?

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