Photo of Bonnie F. Hartman in Ottawa, ON
Bonnie F. Hartman
MEd, NBC-HWC, PGAP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1R  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Bonnie! I specialize in offering compassionate support during pivotal life events or when embarking on a fresh chapter. Offering you personalized guidance and strategies, I'm here to empower you towards a more fulfilling life. My expertise lies in evidence-based approaches, aiding individuals through diverse challenges like life transitions, chronic health conditions, ADHD management, and non-clinical anxiety or depression. I empathize with the struggles of navigating these paths alone. As a trauma-informed Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach, I'm deeply attuned to the intricacies of physical and emotional pain cycles.
Hi, I'm Bonnie! I specialize in offering compassionate support during pivotal life events or when embarking on a fresh chapter. Offering you personalized guidance and strategies, I'm here to empower you towards a more fulfilling life. My expertise lies in evidence-based approaches, aiding individuals through diverse challenges like life transitions, chronic health conditions, ADHD management, and non-clinical anxiety or depression. I empathize with the struggles of navigating these paths alone. As a trauma-informed Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach, I'm deeply attuned to the intricacies of physical and emotional pain cycles.
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Photo of Natalie Séguin, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Natalie Séguin
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1K
If you are struggling, whether it be with mental illness(es); loneliness; feeling stuck; not knowing who you are, want you want, or why you are here; out of control thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and/or substance use; relationship issues; or if life is just really hard right now.
I believe the human experience is meant to be filled with joy and ease, along with some opportunities for growth, sometimes called challenges. Life can definitely become very challenging and everyone needs help along the way. I believe that when we can connect to our innermost selves, accept life’s challenges with grace, and treat ourselves and others with compassion and care, we can all live rich, meaningful lives. I know that we can and do recover from grief, mental illness, addiction, trauma, and all the hurts that life can throw at us.
If you are struggling, whether it be with mental illness(es); loneliness; feeling stuck; not knowing who you are, want you want, or why you are here; out of control thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and/or substance use; relationship issues; or if life is just really hard right now.
I believe the human experience is meant to be filled with joy and ease, along with some opportunities for growth, sometimes called challenges. Life can definitely become very challenging and everyone needs help along the way. I believe that when we can connect to our innermost selves, accept life’s challenges with grace, and treat ourselves and others with compassion and care, we can all live rich, meaningful lives. I know that we can and do recover from grief, mental illness, addiction, trauma, and all the hurts that life can throw at us.
(343) 312-5855 View (343) 312-5855
Photo of Nicole Ritonja, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Nicole Ritonja
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2M  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Psychotherapist who has a passion for working with clients dealing with a variety of mental health difficulties and symptoms. My practice focuses on helping individuals navigate and manage difficulties with stress, anxiety/panic, trauma, attachment injuries, and somatic symptoms. I also have a specific interest in helping clients cope with the difficulties they are experiencing post-impairment and diagnosis. I also have a specific interest in helping clients cope with a variety of chronic conditions, including those with chronic pain and neurological impairments (i.e., concussions, MS, FND, strokes, PD).
I am a Registered Psychotherapist who has a passion for working with clients dealing with a variety of mental health difficulties and symptoms. My practice focuses on helping individuals navigate and manage difficulties with stress, anxiety/panic, trauma, attachment injuries, and somatic symptoms. I also have a specific interest in helping clients cope with the difficulties they are experiencing post-impairment and diagnosis. I also have a specific interest in helping clients cope with a variety of chronic conditions, including those with chronic pain and neurological impairments (i.e., concussions, MS, FND, strokes, PD).
(343) 500-7422 View (343) 500-7422
Photo of Cindy Bekkedam, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Cindy Bekkedam
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), RD, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Y  (Online Only)
I have experience supporting human beings with chronic illness and pain, eating disorders, relationship with food, burnout, job-related stress, giftedness, creativity/art, ADHD and highly sensitive people.
Feeling anxious, caught in the cycle of people-pleasing or struggling with an eating disorder? Are you disconnected from your true self or struggling with relationships? Childhood trauma can have lasting effects that limit us, impacting our self-esteem, direction, and relationships. If you're navigating the conditioning from emotionally immature or neglectful parents, or if relationships don't feel safe, holistic psychotherapy can be your compass for healing. There's hope for breaking free from old patterns, knowing your true needs and desires, and living a life aligned with your authentic self, not just societal expectations.
I have experience supporting human beings with chronic illness and pain, eating disorders, relationship with food, burnout, job-related stress, giftedness, creativity/art, ADHD and highly sensitive people.
Feeling anxious, caught in the cycle of people-pleasing or struggling with an eating disorder? Are you disconnected from your true self or struggling with relationships? Childhood trauma can have lasting effects that limit us, impacting our self-esteem, direction, and relationships. If you're navigating the conditioning from emotionally immature or neglectful parents, or if relationships don't feel safe, holistic psychotherapy can be your compass for healing. There's hope for breaking free from old patterns, knowing your true needs and desires, and living a life aligned with your authentic self, not just societal expectations.
(343) 655-2646 View (343) 655-2646
Photo of Christine Keown, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Christine Keown
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd , RP, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
I focused my master’s research on the interceptions of non-nociceptive pain and resilience, so have an interest in working with chronic pain and chronic illness.
Relationship-building and a strong therapeutic alliance come at the core of the work that I do. To me, it is important to create a space that is welcoming, non-judgmental, and relaxed, so that clients can feel open to share. I find importance in meeting each client where they are at, and with young clients (or young at heart) have been known to use creative formats for engagement such as: games, sand tray, art, music or going on walks. I am able to do work with children 7 and above, adolescents, and adult clients. I have over a decade of experience working with children/youth and adults, both in a counselling and teaching capacity.
I focused my master’s research on the interceptions of non-nociceptive pain and resilience, so have an interest in working with chronic pain and chronic illness.
Relationship-building and a strong therapeutic alliance come at the core of the work that I do. To me, it is important to create a space that is welcoming, non-judgmental, and relaxed, so that clients can feel open to share. I find importance in meeting each client where they are at, and with young clients (or young at heart) have been known to use creative formats for engagement such as: games, sand tray, art, music or going on walks. I am able to do work with children 7 and above, adolescents, and adult clients. I have over a decade of experience working with children/youth and adults, both in a counselling and teaching capacity.
(365) 607-9289 View (365) 607-9289
Photo of Carly Quintero @ Psychotherapy for You, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Carly Quintero @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R  (Online Only)
Hello I am a welcoming, attentive clinician with a natural knack for relationship building. I earned my Master's degree in Counselling from Oakland University (Michigan) in 2013 and have been a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario since 2016, as well as a Member of the Ontario Society of Registered Psychotherapists. I have over eight years of experience counselling individuals from predominantly person-centered and narrative approaches with specific focus placed on developing treatment to fit each client's unique needs and personality. I am confident working with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional effects of chronic pain,
Hello I am a welcoming, attentive clinician with a natural knack for relationship building. I earned my Master's degree in Counselling from Oakland University (Michigan) in 2013 and have been a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario since 2016, as well as a Member of the Ontario Society of Registered Psychotherapists. I have over eight years of experience counselling individuals from predominantly person-centered and narrative approaches with specific focus placed on developing treatment to fit each client's unique needs and personality. I am confident working with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional effects of chronic pain,
(289) 272-9090 View (289) 272-9090
Photo of Ariana Tamas, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Ariana Tamas
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CRPO # , 10161
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2J
Ariana Tamas works with individuals, couples and families (age 18 and up) to address a variety of issues in a safe, welcoming and compassionate environment. Clients may have difficulties with relationships, intimacy and communication, or with anxiety and depression. They may identify specific stressors: loneliness, grief, trauma, life transitions, illness, the pandemic. They may experience inner conflicts, even existential concerns, that are more general. Whatever the situation, Ariana strongly believes in the power of resilience, and seeks to reconnect clients to their inner wisdom and resources.
Ariana Tamas works with individuals, couples and families (age 18 and up) to address a variety of issues in a safe, welcoming and compassionate environment. Clients may have difficulties with relationships, intimacy and communication, or with anxiety and depression. They may identify specific stressors: loneliness, grief, trauma, life transitions, illness, the pandemic. They may experience inner conflicts, even existential concerns, that are more general. Whatever the situation, Ariana strongly believes in the power of resilience, and seeks to reconnect clients to their inner wisdom and resources.
(343) 312-7449 View (343) 312-7449
Photo of Candice Wishnousky, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Candice Wishnousky
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1R
The weight of our experiences, choices, and life circumstances can get heavy at times. During these periods it can be difficult to see outside of our pain, to choose an alternate path, or to create meaning. In therapy, I work with adults, who are struggling with common issues such as: depressed mood, anxiety, stress, self-criticism, feeling disconnected, relationship dissatisfaction, and parenting issues. I will work with you to explore ways for you to feel more confident in your choices, as well as connected to yourself and the important people in your life.
The weight of our experiences, choices, and life circumstances can get heavy at times. During these periods it can be difficult to see outside of our pain, to choose an alternate path, or to create meaning. In therapy, I work with adults, who are struggling with common issues such as: depressed mood, anxiety, stress, self-criticism, feeling disconnected, relationship dissatisfaction, and parenting issues. I will work with you to explore ways for you to feel more confident in your choices, as well as connected to yourself and the important people in your life.
(613) 209-4039 View (613) 209-4039
Photo of Karinna Nájera - Focus On Change, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Karinna Nájera - Focus On Change
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, CHT
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
I specialise in helping individuals 18 and older, dealing with anxiety disorders, stress management, work burnout, depression, post-partum depression/anxiety, phobias and fears, insomnia and cancer and chronic illness.
Hello! My name is Karinna Nájera, Psychotherapist, Counsellor and Clinical Hypnotherapist. I have worked in the Mental Health filed since 1996 and practiced Clinical Hypnosis since 2008. Often past negative events or traumas have a deep impact in our lives. --When left unresolved, these events influence our daily lives as much as the positive events we've experienced. In Martin Seligman's words: "Curing the negatives does not produce the positives".
I specialise in helping individuals 18 and older, dealing with anxiety disorders, stress management, work burnout, depression, post-partum depression/anxiety, phobias and fears, insomnia and cancer and chronic illness.
Hello! My name is Karinna Nájera, Psychotherapist, Counsellor and Clinical Hypnotherapist. I have worked in the Mental Health filed since 1996 and practiced Clinical Hypnosis since 2008. Often past negative events or traumas have a deep impact in our lives. --When left unresolved, these events influence our daily lives as much as the positive events we've experienced. In Martin Seligman's words: "Curing the negatives does not produce the positives".
(613) 800-8558 View (613) 800-8558
Photo of Strength Counselling Services, Counsellor in Ottawa, ON
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1P  (Online Only)
We have combined our extensive professional experience with lessons learned from our own personal healing so we are capable of recognizing the depth of pain our clients experience.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We have combined our extensive professional experience with lessons learned from our own personal healing so we are capable of recognizing the depth of pain our clients experience.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(226) 400-7197 View (226) 400-7197
Photo of Brian Ajamhassani @ Psychotherapy For You, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Brian Ajamhassani @ Psychotherapy For You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1A  (Online Only)
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
(867) 731-0384 View (867) 731-0384
Photo of Sandra J Forbes, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Sandra J Forbes
Registered Social Worker, RSW, CRPO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
I work from approaches tailored to help you move beyond pain and stress.
People who feel low, anxious, and/or are tired of arguing can make a change. I am a registered therapist, social worker and coach. If repetitive patterns are draining you, I can help. For over 30 yrs I have helped individuals, couples and families overcome personal challenges and deepen their relationships. I offer Systemic, Cognitive Behavioural (CBT), Emotionally Focussed and other therapeutic approaches to help people, stretch personal and relationship muscles, in order to make changes that are central to their lives.
I work from approaches tailored to help you move beyond pain and stress.
People who feel low, anxious, and/or are tired of arguing can make a change. I am a registered therapist, social worker and coach. If repetitive patterns are draining you, I can help. For over 30 yrs I have helped individuals, couples and families overcome personal challenges and deepen their relationships. I offer Systemic, Cognitive Behavioural (CBT), Emotionally Focussed and other therapeutic approaches to help people, stretch personal and relationship muscles, in order to make changes that are central to their lives.
(343) 453-2123 View (343) 453-2123
Photo of Eleanor McGroarty, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Eleanor McGroarty
Psychologist, RPsych, CPsych, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R  (Online Only)
I have worked with 100's of individuals and couples experiencing issues related to depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, culture, discrimination, gender, relationships, pain, illness, trauma & more.
As your therapist, I would be here to get to know you and to guide you in developing skills and insights to create changes that are real, meaningful and sustainable. I will be entirely present and tuned in to what you are experiencing, your fears, distress, motivations and goals. The process will be explorative, providing you with an understanding of how your experiences, thoughts, emotions and behaviours impact one another. Structure will help reach outcomes for your goals, mental health, identity, life transitions and relationships. Your feedback will be encouraged and use to guide your unique treatment, we will work as a team.
I have worked with 100's of individuals and couples experiencing issues related to depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, culture, discrimination, gender, relationships, pain, illness, trauma & more.
As your therapist, I would be here to get to know you and to guide you in developing skills and insights to create changes that are real, meaningful and sustainable. I will be entirely present and tuned in to what you are experiencing, your fears, distress, motivations and goals. The process will be explorative, providing you with an understanding of how your experiences, thoughts, emotions and behaviours impact one another. Structure will help reach outcomes for your goals, mental health, identity, life transitions and relationships. Your feedback will be encouraged and use to guide your unique treatment, we will work as a team.
(647) 933-8103 View (647) 933-8103
Photo of Ryan Dinsmore, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Ryan Dinsmore
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
I help adults who struggle with anxiety, trauma, interpersonal challenges, and low self-esteem and I also provide specialized clinical services to people with chronic pain, Functional Neurological Disorders (FND), and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). You may be experiencing persistent anxious thoughts, self-defeating behaviours, issues in relationships, or physical symptoms despite your best efforts to live a good life.
I help adults who struggle with anxiety, trauma, interpersonal challenges, and low self-esteem and I also provide specialized clinical services to people with chronic pain, Functional Neurological Disorders (FND), and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). You may be experiencing persistent anxious thoughts, self-defeating behaviours, issues in relationships, or physical symptoms despite your best efforts to live a good life.
(343) 338-5307 View (343) 338-5307
Photo of Stephanie L Leon, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Stephanie L Leon
Psychologist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1H  (Online Only)
I have expertise in depression, anxiety, phobias, pain, ADHD, learning disorders, intellectual disability, emotional dysregulation, behavioural problems (ex.
Parenting is a rollercoaster, but adding a neurodevelopmental or medical condition to the mix makes it that much more challenging. I aim to treat emotional and behavioural issues, but also to help parents feel more confident about their parenting and feel more emotionally connected to their children despite the challenges.
I have expertise in depression, anxiety, phobias, pain, ADHD, learning disorders, intellectual disability, emotional dysregulation, behavioural problems (ex.
Parenting is a rollercoaster, but adding a neurodevelopmental or medical condition to the mix makes it that much more challenging. I aim to treat emotional and behavioural issues, but also to help parents feel more confident about their parenting and feel more emotionally connected to their children despite the challenges.
(819) 200-7718 View (819) 200-7718
Photo of Deirdre Carroll Private Practice Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Deirdre Carroll Private Practice Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R
Do you feel lost on your path due to a specific issue, or feelings you can't clearly identify? Do you feel stuck and cannot talk to those around you? Or are you lonely and isolated, burned out or emotionally and physically exhausted? Are you looking to understand yourself on a deeper level? Stressors in our everyday lives, Relationships, Systemic Barriers and Trauma from the past can live in us and manifest as Depression, Anxiety, Physical pain and Insomnia. It is painful and uncertain, and can cause a lack of confidence in how to move forward. Therapy is used to explore these issues and gain lifelong tools to support yourself.
Do you feel lost on your path due to a specific issue, or feelings you can't clearly identify? Do you feel stuck and cannot talk to those around you? Or are you lonely and isolated, burned out or emotionally and physically exhausted? Are you looking to understand yourself on a deeper level? Stressors in our everyday lives, Relationships, Systemic Barriers and Trauma from the past can live in us and manifest as Depression, Anxiety, Physical pain and Insomnia. It is painful and uncertain, and can cause a lack of confidence in how to move forward. Therapy is used to explore these issues and gain lifelong tools to support yourself.
(289) 275-9487 View (289) 275-9487
Photo of Christopher Michael Brown, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Christopher Michael Brown
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), HBSc, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Y
**Accepting New Clients** I believe that the pain each man goes through is unique to his issues but is not dissimilar from the pain other men experience. Most men are taught about what feelings are acceptable to feel and in what situations it is acceptable to feel them. This can lead to men hearing phrases such as “toughen up”, “be strong” or “don’t cry”. Some men will say “I’m alright” when answering questions about their well being when they really aren’t “alright”. I believe such phrases and answers must be challenged. Every man deserves to be heard and have his feelings acknowledged. Together, we will work towards that goal.
**Accepting New Clients** I believe that the pain each man goes through is unique to his issues but is not dissimilar from the pain other men experience. Most men are taught about what feelings are acceptable to feel and in what situations it is acceptable to feel them. This can lead to men hearing phrases such as “toughen up”, “be strong” or “don’t cry”. Some men will say “I’m alright” when answering questions about their well being when they really aren’t “alright”. I believe such phrases and answers must be challenged. Every man deserves to be heard and have his feelings acknowledged. Together, we will work towards that goal.
(249) 209-5242 View (249) 209-5242
Photo of Judeline Salomon Phd, Psychiatric Nurse in Ottawa, ON
Judeline Salomon Phd
Psychiatric Nurse, BN, MScN, PhD, RN
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K0A
I can help you with chronic pain, chronic fatigue and physical health issues that affect your mental health.
I can help when your mental and physical health are affecting your wellbeing. I will help young and mature adults navigate some of the most significant life challenges such as addiction, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief, loss, post-traumatic stress, racial trauma and other challenges associated with life, school, and the workplace that may affect your mental health.
I can help you with chronic pain, chronic fatigue and physical health issues that affect your mental health.
I can help when your mental and physical health are affecting your wellbeing. I will help young and mature adults navigate some of the most significant life challenges such as addiction, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief, loss, post-traumatic stress, racial trauma and other challenges associated with life, school, and the workplace that may affect your mental health.
(613) 777-5038 View (613) 777-5038
Photo of Annette Newton Psychotherapy Services, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Annette Newton Psychotherapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CIYt
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R
Are you a woman 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 a woman 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 Marlo Drago, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Marlo Drago
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1C  (Online Only)
As a dedicated and compassionate registered social worker, I am committed to providing high-quality trauma-informed therapy to individuals aged 16 and above in Ontario, Canada. With a holistic framework and a client-centered approach, I specialize in addressing anxiety, childhood trauma, depression, burnout, parenting challenges, and various other areas impacting mental health and well-being. With years of experience in the field of social work, I have honed my expertise in trauma-informed care, recognizing the complex intersections of trauma and mental health.
As a dedicated and compassionate registered social worker, I am committed to providing high-quality trauma-informed therapy to individuals aged 16 and above in Ontario, Canada. With a holistic framework and a client-centered approach, I specialize in addressing anxiety, childhood trauma, depression, burnout, parenting challenges, and various other areas impacting mental health and well-being. With years of experience in the field of social work, I have honed my expertise in trauma-informed care, recognizing the complex intersections of trauma and mental health.
(289) 302-5483 View (289) 302-5483

See more therapy options for Ottawa

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.