Chronic Pain Therapists in Parry Sound, ON

Photo of Michelle Hoefler, MSW, RSW, SEP, Registered Social Worker
Michelle Hoefler
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parry Sound, ON P2A  (Online Only)
I also offer an intervention called Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) and I am trained in Level 1, 2 & 3 Brainspotting which helps people access, process, and overcome trauma, negative emotions, and pain.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do your thoughts keep racing from one thing to another? Do you find you are excellent at taking care of everyone else but keep neglecting yourself? I would like to help. I am passionate about helping people to move past the "shoulds" and move towards creating the kind of life they want to live. Most of the time when we are distressed we are worrying either too much about the past or the future, or are overly preoccupied by what we imagine other people are thinking about us.
I also offer an intervention called Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) and I am trained in Level 1, 2 & 3 Brainspotting which helps people access, process, and overcome trauma, negative emotions, and pain.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do your thoughts keep racing from one thing to another? Do you find you are excellent at taking care of everyone else but keep neglecting yourself? I would like to help. I am passionate about helping people to move past the "shoulds" and move towards creating the kind of life they want to live. Most of the time when we are distressed we are worrying either too much about the past or the future, or are overly preoccupied by what we imagine other people are thinking about us.
(226) 887-1544 View (226) 887-1544
Photo of Geoffrey Reekie, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Geoffrey Reekie
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Parry Sound, ON P2A
We are committed to reducing pain and suffering as quickly and effectively as possible.
Don't Suffer Any longer - We can help. At ASSIST Counselling and Psychiatric Services we provide rapid and long-lasting relief from the mental, emotional and physical pain caused by trauma, abuse, mental illness, infidelity, and addictions. Using cutting edge, best practice therapeutic approaches, we can help you recover fast. At ASSIST we pride ourselves on being accessible and reliable. We offer initial appointments in hours, not weeks. We offer relief in 1-5 sessions. We have psychiatrists who can provide assessments and consultations in days, not months. Don't wait until a problem harms your family, career or health.
We are committed to reducing pain and suffering as quickly and effectively as possible.
Don't Suffer Any longer - We can help. At ASSIST Counselling and Psychiatric Services we provide rapid and long-lasting relief from the mental, emotional and physical pain caused by trauma, abuse, mental illness, infidelity, and addictions. Using cutting edge, best practice therapeutic approaches, we can help you recover fast. At ASSIST we pride ourselves on being accessible and reliable. We offer initial appointments in hours, not weeks. We offer relief in 1-5 sessions. We have psychiatrists who can provide assessments and consultations in days, not months. Don't wait until a problem harms your family, career or health.
(249) 493-6449 View (249) 493-6449
Photo of Kathy Dahmer, RP, MDiv, Registered Psychotherapist
Kathy Dahmer
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parry Sound, ON P2A  (Online Only)
Unhealed trauma lives in the body, it can begin to manifest as headaches, chronic back pain, pain in the chest.
Life after trauma can be hard. Really really hard. You never quite go back to feeling like yourself. You experience the world differently- people, places and things can trigger feelings of unsafety. You may be feeling numb, detached or out of body. Other times, you can feel irritable and snap easily. Trauma will impact your ability to trust yourself & those around you. Maybe it's beginning to impact your relationships with yourself and/or others. Sometimes you’ve been living in survival mode for so long that you begin to feel hopeless. Unhealed trauma commonly manifests in the body chronically.
Unhealed trauma lives in the body, it can begin to manifest as headaches, chronic back pain, pain in the chest.
Life after trauma can be hard. Really really hard. You never quite go back to feeling like yourself. You experience the world differently- people, places and things can trigger feelings of unsafety. You may be feeling numb, detached or out of body. Other times, you can feel irritable and snap easily. Trauma will impact your ability to trust yourself & those around you. Maybe it's beginning to impact your relationships with yourself and/or others. Sometimes you’ve been living in survival mode for so long that you begin to feel hopeless. Unhealed trauma commonly manifests in the body chronically.
(249) 702-1622 View (249) 702-1622
Photo of Lindsey Hutchings, RN, BScN
Lindsey Hutchings
RN, BScN
Verified Verified
Parry Sound, ON P2A  (Online Only)
I am available for online counselling to adults interested in learning to better manage their stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic pain, or chronic illness. Whether you are interested in learning the principles of anger management and emotional regulation or are hoping to build your self-esteem or confidence, we will create a care plan specific to your goals. You might be interested in processing recent or past complex trauma, managing symptoms of PTSD or are looking for general guidance. I can provide a safe and supportive environment where you can learn about yourself and understand what your needs are and how to meet them.
I am available for online counselling to adults interested in learning to better manage their stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic pain, or chronic illness. Whether you are interested in learning the principles of anger management and emotional regulation or are hoping to build your self-esteem or confidence, we will create a care plan specific to your goals. You might be interested in processing recent or past complex trauma, managing symptoms of PTSD or are looking for general guidance. I can provide a safe and supportive environment where you can learn about yourself and understand what your needs are and how to meet them.
(343) 338-5684 View (343) 338-5684
Photo of Evi Donevan, RP, MDiv, BScN, MFT, Registered Psychotherapist
Evi Donevan
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MDiv, BScN, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parry Sound, ON P2A
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship or loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships and ability to function? Do you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, exhausted or lost. Is it difficult to just get through the day, answer emails, texts or calls or struggle with the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you wonder if you can ever be happy? Now more than ever people are struggling with feeling overwhelmed and wanting to move beyond past traumas that have affected them and their relationships for years. We believe that there is hope.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship or loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships and ability to function? Do you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, exhausted or lost. Is it difficult to just get through the day, answer emails, texts or calls or struggle with the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you wonder if you can ever be happy? Now more than ever people are struggling with feeling overwhelmed and wanting to move beyond past traumas that have affected them and their relationships for years. We believe that there is hope.
(249) 487-1978 View (249) 487-1978
Photo of Lisa Ivany, BScPT, RP-Q, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Lisa Ivany
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BScPT, RP-Q
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Parry Sound, ON P2A
I welcome all clients, but I am especially skilled in working with caregivers and mothers who may be struggling with balance and self-worth. My extensive background includes specialized training in infant mental health and emotional dysregulation, and I am passionate about guiding parents in nurturing healthy bonds with their children during crucial developmental and transition stages. Together, in a respectful and collaborative partnership, we will address your concerns and navigate the path toward healing and growth. Welcome to a supportive space where your journey is met with understanding, empathy, and commitment.
I welcome all clients, but I am especially skilled in working with caregivers and mothers who may be struggling with balance and self-worth. My extensive background includes specialized training in infant mental health and emotional dysregulation, and I am passionate about guiding parents in nurturing healthy bonds with their children during crucial developmental and transition stages. Together, in a respectful and collaborative partnership, we will address your concerns and navigate the path toward healing and growth. Welcome to a supportive space where your journey is met with understanding, empathy, and commitment.
(249) 496-2692 View (249) 496-2692
Photo of Henry Obanor, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Henry Obanor
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Parry Sound, ON P2A
I provide a judgement free space and therapeutic counselling. I have worked extensively with youths, adults, couples and families in various capacities. With over 11 years of social work and counselling experience, I am knowledgeable and equipped to provide you with safe, confidential and effective counselling. I will work collaboratively with you as you gain the knowledge and skills you need to address your concerns and achieve your goals.
I provide a judgement free space and therapeutic counselling. I have worked extensively with youths, adults, couples and families in various capacities. With over 11 years of social work and counselling experience, I am knowledgeable and equipped to provide you with safe, confidential and effective counselling. I will work collaboratively with you as you gain the knowledge and skills you need to address your concerns and achieve your goals.
(705) 702-4579 View (705) 702-4579
Photo of Lisa Davis, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Lisa Davis
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parry Sound, ON P2A  (Online Only)
Asking for support is a courageous first step in managing your mental health & wellness. It is easy to get stuck in unhelpful thought patterns that do not serve us. The good news is, we have more control over our thoughts and feelings than it may seem. You can learn to take charge of your behaviour with the right tools & techniques, to live a more fulfilled & happy life. I will work collaboratively with you to help set achievable goals that support empowerment, capacity building & resiliency. I believe in the importance of a strong therapeutic alliance where you feel safe to share so we can have relaxed & authentic conversations.
Asking for support is a courageous first step in managing your mental health & wellness. It is easy to get stuck in unhelpful thought patterns that do not serve us. The good news is, we have more control over our thoughts and feelings than it may seem. You can learn to take charge of your behaviour with the right tools & techniques, to live a more fulfilled & happy life. I will work collaboratively with you to help set achievable goals that support empowerment, capacity building & resiliency. I believe in the importance of a strong therapeutic alliance where you feel safe to share so we can have relaxed & authentic conversations.
(365) 398-5085 View (365) 398-5085
Photo of Juli Ana Fyfe, H BSc, MA, RP, CT, OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist
Juli Ana Fyfe
Registered Psychotherapist, H BSc, MA, RP, CT, OAMHP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Parry Sound, ON P2A
Its not easy to navigate the chaos of life's challenges and find joy. When clients are facing the hardest times of their life, they can feel isolated, alone, and stuck. I partner with clients with a warm, collaborative person-centered and solutions-oriented approach. I hold the space for them to discover a path forward and experience real growth. I have 14 years of life-coaching experience combined with a Master's degree. I have a particular interest in helping support caregivers, who have family members with Alzheimers Disease, any type of cancer or rare disease, and mental health disorders. ⁠⁣
Its not easy to navigate the chaos of life's challenges and find joy. When clients are facing the hardest times of their life, they can feel isolated, alone, and stuck. I partner with clients with a warm, collaborative person-centered and solutions-oriented approach. I hold the space for them to discover a path forward and experience real growth. I have 14 years of life-coaching experience combined with a Master's degree. I have a particular interest in helping support caregivers, who have family members with Alzheimers Disease, any type of cancer or rare disease, and mental health disorders. ⁠⁣
(647) 372-2078 View (647) 372-2078

Online Therapists

Photo of Kara Braun, OCT, Registered Psychotherapist
Kara Braun
Registered Psychotherapist, OCT
Verified Verified
Sudbury, ON P3B  (Online Only)
Mindful awareness is a skill set that can reduce feelings of pain and suffering while expanding our capacity for meeting life’s challenges with flexibility, confidence and ease.
I help clients build practices that nurture spontaneity, creativity, wisdom, and fun. As an experienced psychotherapist, meditator and trained mindfulness coach, I work with individuals, couples and professionals invested in systematically learning and applying secular meditation techniques to a broad range of high-level goals related to performance, physical, mental, and emotional health, behaviour, relationships, psychospiritual growth, and service. Working one-on-one means we can focus on supporting the areas of your life most ready to grow. Strategies can be adapted, and various therapeutic modalities are drawn upon.
Mindful awareness is a skill set that can reduce feelings of pain and suffering while expanding our capacity for meeting life’s challenges with flexibility, confidence and ease.
I help clients build practices that nurture spontaneity, creativity, wisdom, and fun. As an experienced psychotherapist, meditator and trained mindfulness coach, I work with individuals, couples and professionals invested in systematically learning and applying secular meditation techniques to a broad range of high-level goals related to performance, physical, mental, and emotional health, behaviour, relationships, psychospiritual growth, and service. Working one-on-one means we can focus on supporting the areas of your life most ready to grow. Strategies can be adapted, and various therapeutic modalities are drawn upon.
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Photo of Robin Julie Dewhurst, MA Th, (SCP)RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Robin Julie Dewhurst
Registered Psychotherapist, MA Th, (SCP)RP
Verified Verified
Owen Sound, ON N4K
I have experience working with grief and addictions and chronic pain.
Most of us want the same things in life- purposeful living, harmonious relationships, peace. We want a sense of love and belonging. We want to be happy. Choices, transitions and challenges in life can be hard to navigate on our own but there are peaceful resolutions and ways to overcome our internal blocks and core beliefs, our over- thinking and self esteem. We are all capable of self- healing especially when we activate our powerful subconscious using theta healing and hypnosis.
I have experience working with grief and addictions and chronic pain.
Most of us want the same things in life- purposeful living, harmonious relationships, peace. We want a sense of love and belonging. We want to be happy. Choices, transitions and challenges in life can be hard to navigate on our own but there are peaceful resolutions and ways to overcome our internal blocks and core beliefs, our over- thinking and self esteem. We are all capable of self- healing especially when we activate our powerful subconscious using theta healing and hypnosis.
(226) 212-5234 View (226) 212-5234
Photo of Annette Newton - Annette Newton Psychotherapy Services, Registered Psychotherapist
Annette Newton Psychotherapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Aurora, ON L4G
Are you navigating change in any way and finding yourself stuck or lost ? This can happen in school, family, pregnancy, motherhood, relationships, work and illness ? As a Registered Psychotherapist, I aim to collaborate with you in navigating the unique challenges and circumstances that come with struggling. Life is so much more than achieving its about relationships, purpose and connections. Pain and struggling cannot be compared, and your unique suffering matters. Reach out and trust that you will feel lighter, more stable and understand that you are worthy of compassion and able to cope under challenging circumstances.
Are you navigating change in any way and finding yourself stuck or lost ? This can happen in school, family, pregnancy, motherhood, relationships, work and illness ? As a Registered Psychotherapist, I aim to collaborate with you in navigating the unique challenges and circumstances that come with struggling. Life is so much more than achieving its about relationships, purpose and connections. Pain and struggling cannot be compared, and your unique suffering matters. Reach out and trust that you will feel lighter, more stable and understand that you are worthy of compassion and able to cope under challenging circumstances.
(289) 207-7648 View (289) 207-7648
Photo of Elizabeth Hepworth, MAABS, RP, OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist
Elizabeth Hepworth
Registered Psychotherapist, MAABS, RP, OAMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bay, ON P1C  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in an unhealthy pattern and overwhelmed by your feelings? Are you looking to understand and move into a better relationship with yourself? I can help. I have been in private practice for 27 years and have helped thousands of individuals develop an intimate understanding of their emotions and then act and move forward. I have recently transitioned to an online platform and am accepting new clients. I like to educate my clients, and I understand therapy and growth are not easy, but neither is remaining in pain. You are not alone and do not need to know the answers; let's discover your next steps together.
Are you feeling stuck in an unhealthy pattern and overwhelmed by your feelings? Are you looking to understand and move into a better relationship with yourself? I can help. I have been in private practice for 27 years and have helped thousands of individuals develop an intimate understanding of their emotions and then act and move forward. I have recently transitioned to an online platform and am accepting new clients. I like to educate my clients, and I understand therapy and growth are not easy, but neither is remaining in pain. You are not alone and do not need to know the answers; let's discover your next steps together.
(855) 767-9075 View (855) 767-9075
Photo of Kirstin Dana Bindseil, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kirstin Dana Bindseil
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bradford, ON L3Z
Available either by phone or video conference, I am here to help people including those in health care cope in uncertain times. Situations such as illness, difficulties in the family, a change at work, or some other unforeseen event that leads to changes that you never imagined can be crippling. Long standing needs may also get triggered that make it difficult manage alone. You may begin to wonder "Will things ever get back on track"? Happiness is still possible in times of uncertainty. Kirana Psychotherapy has over 20 years of experience helping people understand how to grow even in difficult times.
Available either by phone or video conference, I am here to help people including those in health care cope in uncertain times. Situations such as illness, difficulties in the family, a change at work, or some other unforeseen event that leads to changes that you never imagined can be crippling. Long standing needs may also get triggered that make it difficult manage alone. You may begin to wonder "Will things ever get back on track"? Happiness is still possible in times of uncertainty. Kirana Psychotherapy has over 20 years of experience helping people understand how to grow even in difficult times.
(647) 559-9446 View (647) 559-9446
Photo of Heather Kent - At Healing Path Therapy—PTSD•Relationships•2SLGTBQ, MC, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
At Healing Path Therapy—PTSD•Relationships•2SLGTBQ
Registered Psychotherapist, MC, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3Y
We provide judgment-free emotional safety and healing for individuals, couples, and families specializing in abusive relationships, sexual issues, queer & marginalized support, cross-cultural relationships, grief, chronic pain, transgender & gender-expansive support, and therapy using ASL.
Will the abuse ever stop? Will I always be in pain? Will I ever be good enough? Will I always feel this overwhelmed? Will I ever be in a loving relationship? Will I always feel paralyzed by my emotions? These worries are exhausting. Maybe you’ve Googled things like: therapist/therapy group near me, therapy for depression, anxiety, intimacy, chronic pain, narcissistic abuse, personality disorders, grief, couples counseling, 2SLGBTQ+ friendly therapists, queer or Muslim therapist. The decision to reach out can come with a lot of emotions, especially if you’ve been let down in the past & you’re tired of feeling misunderstood or unseen.
We provide judgment-free emotional safety and healing for individuals, couples, and families specializing in abusive relationships, sexual issues, queer & marginalized support, cross-cultural relationships, grief, chronic pain, transgender & gender-expansive support, and therapy using ASL.
Will the abuse ever stop? Will I always be in pain? Will I ever be good enough? Will I always feel this overwhelmed? Will I ever be in a loving relationship? Will I always feel paralyzed by my emotions? These worries are exhausting. Maybe you’ve Googled things like: therapist/therapy group near me, therapy for depression, anxiety, intimacy, chronic pain, narcissistic abuse, personality disorders, grief, couples counseling, 2SLGBTQ+ friendly therapists, queer or Muslim therapist. The decision to reach out can come with a lot of emotions, especially if you’ve been let down in the past & you’re tired of feeling misunderstood or unseen.
(289) 272-9184 View (289) 272-9184
Photo of Effie Mitskopoulos - Holistic Psychotherapy, HBSc, MSW, RSW, CHyp, CYT, Registered Social Worker
Effie Mitskopoulos - Holistic Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, HBSc, MSW, RSW, CHyp, CYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
It's time to feel how powerful you truly are. I help women overcome self-defeating and worrisome thoughts to live a calm and fulfilling life. Stress and trauma affects how you feel, think, behave, and how your body works. This can manifest as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and addiction. I treat you as a whole person (body, mind, and spirit), personalizing modalities like Hypnosis, Mindfulness, CBT, DBT, and Nervous System Re-training to work for you so distress is released and healthy patterns are established. I teach you skills so that you live a happy, peaceful, and meaningful life.
It's time to feel how powerful you truly are. I help women overcome self-defeating and worrisome thoughts to live a calm and fulfilling life. Stress and trauma affects how you feel, think, behave, and how your body works. This can manifest as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and addiction. I treat you as a whole person (body, mind, and spirit), personalizing modalities like Hypnosis, Mindfulness, CBT, DBT, and Nervous System Re-training to work for you so distress is released and healthy patterns are established. I teach you skills so that you live a happy, peaceful, and meaningful life.
(249) 294-1342 View (249) 294-1342
Photo of Dr. Sangeeta Arya Tanwar, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Sangeeta Arya Tanwar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Aurora, ON L4G
I provide treatment for adults with issues of depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Skin Picking, Body Image Issues, Fears/ Phobia, Chronic pain, Eating Disorders/disordered eating, interpersonal challenges, anger, adjustment to life transitions and parenting, stress and sleep issues. I also provide WSIB and return to work assessment service.
I provide treatment for adults with issues of depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Skin Picking, Body Image Issues, Fears/ Phobia, Chronic pain, Eating Disorders/disordered eating, interpersonal challenges, anger, adjustment to life transitions and parenting, stress and sleep issues. I also provide WSIB and return to work assessment service.
(289) 206-9891 View (289) 206-9891
Photo of Rev. Dr. Kim Mehmet, PhD, Pastoral Counsellor
Rev. Dr. Kim Mehmet
Pastoral Counsellor, PhD
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
My intention is to help you heal from your pain, grow from your struggles, and move forward into the best version of yourself, and the life of your dreams.
A Spiritual Health Therapy Session combines psychology with spirituality.
My intention is to help you heal from your pain, grow from your struggles, and move forward into the best version of yourself, and the life of your dreams.
A Spiritual Health Therapy Session combines psychology with spirituality.
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Photo of Jessica Lynn Kuehl, BED, MACP, RP-QUAL, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Jessica Lynn Kuehl
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BED, MACP, RP-QUAL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
My approach to counselling is informed by my personal journey through anxiety, childhood trauma, and chronic pain. After years of anxiety and stress culminated in a diagnosis of debilitating chronic pain, I became educated about how trauma is stored in the body, leading to illness and psychological distress. After finding freedom from pain through a system of emotional, cognitive, and somatic exercises, I became certified in Pain Reprocessing Therapy and dedicate my career to empowering clients on their individual paths to healing. I also specialize in treating teens and adults living with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My approach to counselling is informed by my personal journey through anxiety, childhood trauma, and chronic pain. After years of anxiety and stress culminated in a diagnosis of debilitating chronic pain, I became educated about how trauma is stored in the body, leading to illness and psychological distress. After finding freedom from pain through a system of emotional, cognitive, and somatic exercises, I became certified in Pain Reprocessing Therapy and dedicate my career to empowering clients on their individual paths to healing. I also specialize in treating teens and adults living with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(249) 490-5381 View (249) 490-5381
Photo of Ashley Parsons - Ashley Parsons Therapy, BA, RP, RYT, Registered Psychotherapist
Ashley Parsons Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Carling, ON P0B  (Online Only)
I also work with habit abatement, chronic pain, and PTSD.
My ideal client is someone who is committed to self-development, getting to know themselves better, being honest with themselves about who they are, their challenges, their dreams. I guide clients to hear the voice of their true self so that they can live spaciously. I offer a client-centered approach honouring you for who you are, where you would like to go, what you would like to achieve at the pace of your own personal rhythm of growth and integration. If you would like to hear the voice of your own Heart, discover healing within you, please feel welcome to reach out.
I also work with habit abatement, chronic pain, and PTSD.
My ideal client is someone who is committed to self-development, getting to know themselves better, being honest with themselves about who they are, their challenges, their dreams. I guide clients to hear the voice of their true self so that they can live spaciously. I offer a client-centered approach honouring you for who you are, where you would like to go, what you would like to achieve at the pace of your own personal rhythm of growth and integration. If you would like to hear the voice of your own Heart, discover healing within you, please feel welcome to reach out.
(647) 503-0395 View (647) 503-0395

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Nearby Chronic Pain Counsellors Searches for Parry Sound

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Chronic Pain Counsellors

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophising, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.