Photo of Kelly Reissig, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kelly Reissig
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2H
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, or simply seeking ways to manage life's complexities, I am here to support you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.
Life can present us with unexpected challenges- family conflict, relationship difficulties, parenting concerns, or haunting past experiences- that can leave us feeling trapped, depressed, anxious, and unhappy in all sorts of ways. While stress is a normal part of the human experience, we don't need to be ruled by it. My passion lies in helping individuals navigate through these difficult thoughts, painful self-defeating beliefs, and experiences. I aim to empower you to take action and reconnect with the things that hold true value in your life.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, or simply seeking ways to manage life's complexities, I am here to support you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.
Life can present us with unexpected challenges- family conflict, relationship difficulties, parenting concerns, or haunting past experiences- that can leave us feeling trapped, depressed, anxious, and unhappy in all sorts of ways. While stress is a normal part of the human experience, we don't need to be ruled by it. My passion lies in helping individuals navigate through these difficult thoughts, painful self-defeating beliefs, and experiences. I aim to empower you to take action and reconnect with the things that hold true value in your life.
(587) 800-8278 View (587) 800-8278
Photo of Illisha Cassandra Patterson - Illisha Patterson Psychological Services, RPsych, MAPsych
Illisha Patterson Psychological Services
RPsych, MAPsych
Not Verified Not Verified
5 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3M
I have experience working with people who have a variety of concerns but the most common include: Trauma/PTSD, Chronic Pain, Grief/Loss, Depression and Anxiety.
As a psychologist I often hear "no one can help because no one understands!". Sometimes people feel overwhelmed and alone in the pain, fear and uncertainty. When chaos and crises are your daily reality, how do you manage? When you keep thinking about the horrible things that did or could happen, how do you stop? When you don't want to get up in the morning, how do you face the day? Honestly, I don't have all the answers but I have personally seen people find joy despite ongoing sorrow and I have seen tears and smiles coexist. I believe that with the right support, all people can explore how to find a sense of calm within the storm.
I have experience working with people who have a variety of concerns but the most common include: Trauma/PTSD, Chronic Pain, Grief/Loss, Depression and Anxiety.
As a psychologist I often hear "no one can help because no one understands!". Sometimes people feel overwhelmed and alone in the pain, fear and uncertainty. When chaos and crises are your daily reality, how do you manage? When you keep thinking about the horrible things that did or could happen, how do you stop? When you don't want to get up in the morning, how do you face the day? Honestly, I don't have all the answers but I have personally seen people find joy despite ongoing sorrow and I have seen tears and smiles coexist. I believe that with the right support, all people can explore how to find a sense of calm within the storm.
(587) 602-1020 View (587) 602-1020
Photo of Margaret J Taylor, BEd,  BA, MC, R Psych, EMDR, Psychologist
Margaret J Taylor
Psychologist, BEd, BA, MC, R Psych, EMDR
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2Y  (Online Only)
Margaret believes that Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) efficiently takes the pain out of the memories and that "Laughter is the best medicine" particularly when paired with music and self-help strategies! I will assist you similarly to TRAIN YOUR BRAIN in the same process you learned your multiplication tables, safely and securely via Jane software video on your computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone or via telephone or texting. *Alberta residents only, please and thank you, as per my registered psychologist license. 1-403-680-9707 Cel.
Margaret believes that Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) efficiently takes the pain out of the memories and that "Laughter is the best medicine" particularly when paired with music and self-help strategies! I will assist you similarly to TRAIN YOUR BRAIN in the same process you learned your multiplication tables, safely and securely via Jane software video on your computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone or via telephone or texting. *Alberta residents only, please and thank you, as per my registered psychologist license. 1-403-680-9707 Cel.
(587) 800-4220 View (587) 800-4220
Photo of Anne Hampson - Anne Hampson Equine Therapy , MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Hampson Equine Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2H
Standing in a field with horses can be so simple, yet very powerful. We can learn so much by just being with, watching, and observing. Horses navigate their nervous systems very naturally and without hesitation. For nervous system regulation they have so much to teach us. Together we practice the principles of polyvagal theory in real time while being in the presence of horses which only makes this learning more powerful. My areas of expertise include working with chronic and neuroplastic pain, addiction, PTSD, anxiety and depressive disorders.
Standing in a field with horses can be so simple, yet very powerful. We can learn so much by just being with, watching, and observing. Horses navigate their nervous systems very naturally and without hesitation. For nervous system regulation they have so much to teach us. Together we practice the principles of polyvagal theory in real time while being in the presence of horses which only makes this learning more powerful. My areas of expertise include working with chronic and neuroplastic pain, addiction, PTSD, anxiety and depressive disorders.
(587) 715-0719 View (587) 715-0719
Photo of Jennifer Hrstic, CCC, MACP, Counsellor
Jennifer Hrstic
Counsellor, CCC, MACP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3C
You can learn to trust your judgment, be comfortable with your feelings, manage pain, and know that when a problem arises, you can handle it.
Does life keep catching up with you and knocking you off balance? Maybe you’re weighed down by worry, dread, exhaustion, or pain. Sometimes you look around and wonder, how did I get here? You might not recognize your work, relationships, body or home as they changed while you were busy taking care of everything and everyone else. Your empathy and compassion is a great strength, and yet there is a cost to caring that impacts your health and well-being. I help people with chronic illness, chronic pain, self-esteem, trauma and PTSD to have more energy & enjoy a renewed sense of purpose. It is possible to find a good balance.
You can learn to trust your judgment, be comfortable with your feelings, manage pain, and know that when a problem arises, you can handle it.
Does life keep catching up with you and knocking you off balance? Maybe you’re weighed down by worry, dread, exhaustion, or pain. Sometimes you look around and wonder, how did I get here? You might not recognize your work, relationships, body or home as they changed while you were busy taking care of everything and everyone else. Your empathy and compassion is a great strength, and yet there is a cost to caring that impacts your health and well-being. I help people with chronic illness, chronic pain, self-esteem, trauma and PTSD to have more energy & enjoy a renewed sense of purpose. It is possible to find a good balance.
(587) 570-4914 View (587) 570-4914
Photo of Tara Lee Perry, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Tara Lee Perry
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3R
Life comes with its challenges. The pain of past regrets, future anxieties, and an overwhelming present can often overshadow opportunities for engagement, connection, and meaningful experiences in the here and now. Amidst it all, I believe there is an inherent potential for you to thrive in meaningful and authentic relationships—with yourself, your loved ones, and the world around you. ​ Despite the struggles you may face, I firmly believe in your ability to make choices that prioritize your well-being so you can build a rich and fulfilling life.
Life comes with its challenges. The pain of past regrets, future anxieties, and an overwhelming present can often overshadow opportunities for engagement, connection, and meaningful experiences in the here and now. Amidst it all, I believe there is an inherent potential for you to thrive in meaningful and authentic relationships—with yourself, your loved ones, and the world around you. ​ Despite the struggles you may face, I firmly believe in your ability to make choices that prioritize your well-being so you can build a rich and fulfilling life.
(587) 853-0062 View (587) 853-0062
Photo of Mary Owoeye - LOPAP Counselling and Consulting, MEd, MSW,  RSW, Registered Social Worker
LOPAP Counselling and Consulting
Registered Social Worker, MEd, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2H
I am passionately waiting to connect with you on that journey to a peaceful, enjoyable relationship, and all-around wellness. There is hope for a better life. Take a bold step to overcome hurts, pain, painful experiences, and struggles in life. My practice is based on trauma-informed care and family systems. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who experience relationship issues, family conflict, depression, anxiety, and addiction. I aim to meet your unique needs and goals with empathy, gentleness, respect, and a non-judgmental stance.
I am passionately waiting to connect with you on that journey to a peaceful, enjoyable relationship, and all-around wellness. There is hope for a better life. Take a bold step to overcome hurts, pain, painful experiences, and struggles in life. My practice is based on trauma-informed care and family systems. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who experience relationship issues, family conflict, depression, anxiety, and addiction. I aim to meet your unique needs and goals with empathy, gentleness, respect, and a non-judgmental stance.
(587) 571-6873 View (587) 571-6873
Photo of Kristy Brosz, MSW, RCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristy Brosz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3G  (Online Only)
*Chronic Illness/Rare Disease Therapist & Trauma/Grief Specialist* Everyone deserves safety, trust, and hope. These build the foundation for our belief in ourselves, connection with others, and help us to live a meaningful life. Stress, health diagnosis, and unexpected challenges can uproot us. When that happens it’s my privilege to create a safe, grounding connection to help you find your way back to a meaningful life. Through a combination of trauma-informed and evidence-based counselling interventions, I provide a soft place to land, where you are seen, heard, and can safely speak your truth on the road to healing.
*Chronic Illness/Rare Disease Therapist & Trauma/Grief Specialist* Everyone deserves safety, trust, and hope. These build the foundation for our belief in ourselves, connection with others, and help us to live a meaningful life. Stress, health diagnosis, and unexpected challenges can uproot us. When that happens it’s my privilege to create a safe, grounding connection to help you find your way back to a meaningful life. Through a combination of trauma-informed and evidence-based counselling interventions, I provide a soft place to land, where you are seen, heard, and can safely speak your truth on the road to healing.
(825) 250-0340 View (825) 250-0340
Photo of Tanya Woo - Finding Hope Counselling & Education Centre, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Finding Hope Counselling & Education Centre
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2X
My goal is to help people grow from their struggles, heal from their pain, and move forward to where they want to be in life.
I partner with clients to offer effective individualized mental health care. I treat a number of mental health concerns, and provide a neutral ground for individuals, families, and couples. I offer faith-based Christian counselling and secular counselling.
My goal is to help people grow from their struggles, heal from their pain, and move forward to where they want to be in life.
I partner with clients to offer effective individualized mental health care. I treat a number of mental health concerns, and provide a neutral ground for individuals, families, and couples. I offer faith-based Christian counselling and secular counselling.
(825) 601-5994 View (825) 601-5994
Photo of Jenn Champagne - Naturally Therapeutic, Psychologist
Naturally Therapeutic
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2Z
We are accepting NEW clients! Looking for a good fit in a psychologist can be a really daunting task. You’re struggling right now and want to get in quickly but there are soooo many listings. It is unclear who is taking new clients and who is not. Who would be the best fit for you? Whether you are looking for help with anxiety, depression, life transitions, chronic illness, or a number of other concerns, we are confident that you will find your perfect match with us.
We are accepting NEW clients! Looking for a good fit in a psychologist can be a really daunting task. You’re struggling right now and want to get in quickly but there are soooo many listings. It is unclear who is taking new clients and who is not. Who would be the best fit for you? Whether you are looking for help with anxiety, depression, life transitions, chronic illness, or a number of other concerns, we are confident that you will find your perfect match with us.
(587) 804-2632 View (587) 804-2632
Photo of Leanne Pfliger, CCC, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Leanne Pfliger
Registered Provisional Psychologist, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
These models go deeper than talk therapy by healing pain stuck in the nervous system and creating new neural connections in the brain.
As a Registered Provisional Psychologist, I value the significance of the therapeutic relationship to make positive, lasting changes while helping clients heal through their trauma. I have a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health and intergenerational trauma and how these contribute to current symptoms, relationship dynamics and coping patterns. With extensive experience across community and mental health settings, I find fulfillment in working with diverse age groups, including children, youth, and adults.
These models go deeper than talk therapy by healing pain stuck in the nervous system and creating new neural connections in the brain.
As a Registered Provisional Psychologist, I value the significance of the therapeutic relationship to make positive, lasting changes while helping clients heal through their trauma. I have a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health and intergenerational trauma and how these contribute to current symptoms, relationship dynamics and coping patterns. With extensive experience across community and mental health settings, I find fulfillment in working with diverse age groups, including children, youth, and adults.
(587) 872-7280 View (587) 872-7280
Photo of Paul James Lapointe, MSW, RSW, BEd, BGS, Registered Social Worker
Paul James Lapointe
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BEd, BGS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2J
I have training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Narrative Therapy, Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT).
We all move back and forth on the continuum of wellness throughout our lives. Events in our life and stressors we encounter can bring obstacles for us all. These obstacles can lead us to fall off the path of where we hope to go. Through some of these times, we may suffer from challenges like depression and anxiety, which can put up barriers that may feel insurmountable. We all require others on this journey in life. My hope for you is that I may be one of those supports in helping you get things back on track and living the life you want to lead.
I have training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Narrative Therapy, Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT).
We all move back and forth on the continuum of wellness throughout our lives. Events in our life and stressors we encounter can bring obstacles for us all. These obstacles can lead us to fall off the path of where we hope to go. Through some of these times, we may suffer from challenges like depression and anxiety, which can put up barriers that may feel insurmountable. We all require others on this journey in life. My hope for you is that I may be one of those supports in helping you get things back on track and living the life you want to lead.
(825) 501-0370 View (825) 501-0370
Photo of Claire Cummings, MSW, RSW, MA, Registered Social Worker
Claire Cummings
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2P
I have lived experience with religious trauma, pregnancy loss, and the death and illness of loved ones.
I'm dedicated to supporting you in the challenges and changes of midlife and beyond. Midlife can feel like a kind of reckoning. You contend with lost or changed relationships, difficult events, illnesses and changes in your body and mind. This season can spur a desire to return to the essence of things and root down into what matters, and to reflect on how you were raised and how it impacts you now. You may experience burnout, depression, anxiety or chronic pain. As a caregiver, you may tend to put others’ needs before your own, which can be rewarding but comes at a cost.
I have lived experience with religious trauma, pregnancy loss, and the death and illness of loved ones.
I'm dedicated to supporting you in the challenges and changes of midlife and beyond. Midlife can feel like a kind of reckoning. You contend with lost or changed relationships, difficult events, illnesses and changes in your body and mind. This season can spur a desire to return to the essence of things and root down into what matters, and to reflect on how you were raised and how it impacts you now. You may experience burnout, depression, anxiety or chronic pain. As a caregiver, you may tend to put others’ needs before your own, which can be rewarding but comes at a cost.
(403) 462-3416 View (403) 462-3416
Photo of Joel Roos, MA, RPsych, Psychologist
Joel Roos
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3B
I specialize in sex and sexuality, relationship and family concerns, couples' conflicts and communication, chronic pain and disease management, adolescent development, parenting concerns, anxiety treatment, clinical hypnosis, pre/peri/post-natal concerns, family planning, behavioural health interventions, and supervision/training of health professionals.
"Insanity: Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." - Albert Einstein - As a psychologist, I tend to work with people to focus them on what they can change and control to find successes with their problems. Whether working with couples, families, children, youth, or adults, I'd like to be the guy who listens in a way others may have failed to hear you before. My ideal client is anyone craving new skills, new ways of thinking and feeling, and is ready to learn how to think anew about the things they were once sure of.
I specialize in sex and sexuality, relationship and family concerns, couples' conflicts and communication, chronic pain and disease management, adolescent development, parenting concerns, anxiety treatment, clinical hypnosis, pre/peri/post-natal concerns, family planning, behavioural health interventions, and supervision/training of health professionals.
"Insanity: Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." - Albert Einstein - As a psychologist, I tend to work with people to focus them on what they can change and control to find successes with their problems. Whether working with couples, families, children, youth, or adults, I'd like to be the guy who listens in a way others may have failed to hear you before. My ideal client is anyone craving new skills, new ways of thinking and feeling, and is ready to learn how to think anew about the things they were once sure of.
(866) 546-6811 View (866) 546-6811
Photo of Dr. Joanne Vallely, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Joanne Vallely
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2L
I am a PhD trained clinical psychologist specializing in the assessment and treatment of children, youth, and young adults struggling with mental health difficulties and/or challenges associated with health conditions. For the last 12 years, I have worked in several Canadian pediatric hospitals supporting children, youth and families impacted by acute, chronic and life-threatening or limiting illnesses (e.g., cancer, diabetes, arthritis, chronic pain, neuromuscular disorders) and associated mental health concerns (e.g., anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment to living with illness impact).
I am a PhD trained clinical psychologist specializing in the assessment and treatment of children, youth, and young adults struggling with mental health difficulties and/or challenges associated with health conditions. For the last 12 years, I have worked in several Canadian pediatric hospitals supporting children, youth and families impacted by acute, chronic and life-threatening or limiting illnesses (e.g., cancer, diabetes, arthritis, chronic pain, neuromuscular disorders) and associated mental health concerns (e.g., anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment to living with illness impact).
(825) 254-7705 View (825) 254-7705
Photo of Mary Claire Decker - Mindful Cycles Psychology, MEd, RPsych, Psychologist
Mindful Cycles Psychology
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2V
Have you noticed changes to your mental health at different points in your menstrual cycle? Maybe you experience depression, rage or emotional dysregulation during the pre-menstrual time. You might be someone who is diagnosed with a specific hormonally related mental health concern such as severe PMS or PMDD. You could be someone who suffers from menstrual pain from conditions such as endometriosis, PCOS, menstrual migraines etc. Or maybe you're entering into perimenopause or menopause and are struggling with changes to your mental health. My practice is specialized in working with the menstrual cycle to support mental health.
Have you noticed changes to your mental health at different points in your menstrual cycle? Maybe you experience depression, rage or emotional dysregulation during the pre-menstrual time. You might be someone who is diagnosed with a specific hormonally related mental health concern such as severe PMS or PMDD. You could be someone who suffers from menstrual pain from conditions such as endometriosis, PCOS, menstrual migraines etc. Or maybe you're entering into perimenopause or menopause and are struggling with changes to your mental health. My practice is specialized in working with the menstrual cycle to support mental health.
(587) 416-0471 View (587) 416-0471
Photo of Megan Kennedy - Madrona Wellness Centre, MPCC, MTC, MTV, RCS, Counsellor
Madrona Wellness Centre
Counsellor, MPCC, MTC, MTV, RCS
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2Y  (Online Only)
Megan works compassionately with individuals & couples, meeting them where they are at to explore the deeper underlying root causes where pain & healing can be addressed.
Megan is a Master Practitioner of Clinical Counselling (MPCC), a Registered Clinical Supervisor (RCS), and a Master Therapeutic Counsellor (MTC) with 28 years of experience. Megan also certified as: CCPCPR, RPC, & RTC. Megan takes a compassionate approach to therapy & healing the whole person. She helps clients dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, eating disorders, relationship issues, trauma, betrayal, abuse. Megan works with co-occurring disorders that can impact client goals. At the client’s pace, the embedded causes are explored while moving gently through the presenting problem.
Megan works compassionately with individuals & couples, meeting them where they are at to explore the deeper underlying root causes where pain & healing can be addressed.
Megan is a Master Practitioner of Clinical Counselling (MPCC), a Registered Clinical Supervisor (RCS), and a Master Therapeutic Counsellor (MTC) with 28 years of experience. Megan also certified as: CCPCPR, RPC, & RTC. Megan takes a compassionate approach to therapy & healing the whole person. She helps clients dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, eating disorders, relationship issues, trauma, betrayal, abuse. Megan works with co-occurring disorders that can impact client goals. At the client’s pace, the embedded causes are explored while moving gently through the presenting problem.
(587) 872-7044 View (587) 872-7044
Photo of Kara Jolin, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Kara Jolin
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2X
I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience working with children and adolescents. I have expertise in assessing emotional/behavioral functioning and providing therapy for a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, coping with stress, facilitating adjustment (e.g., new school), dealing with grief and loss, managing feelings of anger/frustration, promoting positive self-esteem, building confidence, coping with a medical condition, and pain management. I also provide parents with consultation around common parenting concerns such as sleep difficulties and behavioral management.
I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience working with children and adolescents. I have expertise in assessing emotional/behavioral functioning and providing therapy for a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, coping with stress, facilitating adjustment (e.g., new school), dealing with grief and loss, managing feelings of anger/frustration, promoting positive self-esteem, building confidence, coping with a medical condition, and pain management. I also provide parents with consultation around common parenting concerns such as sleep difficulties and behavioral management.
(866) 574-9720 View (866) 574-9720
Photo of Jennifer Ference-Belhomme - Azalea Child Psychology Services, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Azalea Child Psychology Services
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3B
Waitlist for new clients
In my private practice, I specialize in assessing various developmental challenges in children, adolescents, and in some cases, young adults. I have experience in assessing and diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and Intellectual Disabilities, amongst other challenges that present in children/adolescents. I am well versed in doing psycho-educational assessments and can identify giftedness for school placement. I have experience providing therapy (online and in person) to children and youth struggling with various medical conditions (e.g., chronic pain, Tourette's syndrome) and sleep challenges.
In my private practice, I specialize in assessing various developmental challenges in children, adolescents, and in some cases, young adults. I have experience in assessing and diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and Intellectual Disabilities, amongst other challenges that present in children/adolescents. I am well versed in doing psycho-educational assessments and can identify giftedness for school placement. I have experience providing therapy (online and in person) to children and youth struggling with various medical conditions (e.g., chronic pain, Tourette's syndrome) and sleep challenges.
(825) 807-5647 View (825) 807-5647
Photo of Pam Hauck - Emdr Mbct, CCC, MBA, MofC, EMDR, MBCT, Counsellor
Pam Hauck - Emdr Mbct
Counsellor, CCC, MBA, MofC, EMDR, MBCT
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3C  (Online Only)
Feeling depressed, stressed, anxious, or ongoing emotional or physiical pain. I can help. Recognizing stressors and introducing coping strategies, somatic teachings, and mindfulness into our sessions, we gradually see lasting changes in behavior, emotional regulation, cognitive restructuring & positive mind traits. My focus is not only on your immediate areas of concern. By taking into account the whole of you, we together collaborate to gently explore and be curious about deeper-rooted patterns. EMDR and other somatic treatments assist us in uncovering insights into your past and aid the body in naturally healing past traumas.
Feeling depressed, stressed, anxious, or ongoing emotional or physiical pain. I can help. Recognizing stressors and introducing coping strategies, somatic teachings, and mindfulness into our sessions, we gradually see lasting changes in behavior, emotional regulation, cognitive restructuring & positive mind traits. My focus is not only on your immediate areas of concern. By taking into account the whole of you, we together collaborate to gently explore and be curious about deeper-rooted patterns. EMDR and other somatic treatments assist us in uncovering insights into your past and aid the body in naturally healing past traumas.
(587) 507-4774 View (587) 507-4774

See more therapy options for Calgary

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.