Chronic Pain Therapists in Dartmouth, NS

Photo of Leah Elizabeth Blackwood, Counsellor, MA
Leah Elizabeth Blackwood
Counsellor, MA
5 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2X
Reaching out for therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already navigating stress, uncertainty, or emotional pain.
I have experience in working with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Trauma, life changes, BPD, Grief and more as well as extended education in working with children who are neuro-divergent, individuals with chronic pain, and in Autplay therapy. I work from a trauma-informed lens.
Reaching out for therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already navigating stress, uncertainty, or emotional pain.
I have experience in working with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Trauma, life changes, BPD, Grief and more as well as extended education in working with children who are neuro-divergent, individuals with chronic pain, and in Autplay therapy. I work from a trauma-informed lens.
(782) 222-8438 View (782) 222-8438
Photo of Robin Johnson, Counsellor, MACP, RCT-C
Robin Johnson
Counsellor, MACP, RCT-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Trauma-informed, body-based therapy for teens and adults seeking greater safety, self-trust, and relief from overwhelm. You don’t have to be in crisis to know something isn’t quite right. Many of the people I work with are managing school, work, or daily responsibilities, yet feel worn down, disconnected from their bodies, or stuck in patterns that no longer fit. You may notice people-pleasing, difficulty setting boundaries, or a sense of disconnection from yourself.
Trauma-informed, body-based therapy for teens and adults seeking greater safety, self-trust, and relief from overwhelm. You don’t have to be in crisis to know something isn’t quite right. Many of the people I work with are managing school, work, or daily responsibilities, yet feel worn down, disconnected from their bodies, or stuck in patterns that no longer fit. You may notice people-pleasing, difficulty setting boundaries, or a sense of disconnection from yourself.
(782) 208-7029 View (782) 208-7029
Photo of Rachel Rideout, RCT-C
Rachel Rideout
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3B
I work with individuals age 12+ and am accepting new clients. I work with people who are navigating day-to-day stressors, including change in circumstances, grief, anxiety, self-esteem, and relationship issues. My goal is to provide a safe space in which we can collaborate together and help you achieve your goals. Whether you're new to therapy or have been a few times, I welcome anyone regardless if you have a specific goal or need a safe space to talk.
I work with individuals age 12+ and am accepting new clients. I work with people who are navigating day-to-day stressors, including change in circumstances, grief, anxiety, self-esteem, and relationship issues. My goal is to provide a safe space in which we can collaborate together and help you achieve your goals. Whether you're new to therapy or have been a few times, I welcome anyone regardless if you have a specific goal or need a safe space to talk.
(902) 705-7977 View (902) 705-7977
Photo of Felicity Aldan, Counsellor, MA, RCT-C
Felicity Aldan
Counsellor, MA, RCT-C
4 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
Hello! I'm Felicity. As your therapist, I'm honoured to walk alongside you. Perhaps you're wondering if it's possible to have the relationships you've always dreamed of – the kind where you feel seen, heard, and accepted for who you are. Or maybe you're struggling to understand yourself or your loved ones better, and you're searching for a sense of peace or genuine connection. Perhaps you've recently experienced a loss or a change in identity, and you find yourself wondering about how you really see the world or want to exist in it. Maybe you just want to stop fighting with the ones you love.
Hello! I'm Felicity. As your therapist, I'm honoured to walk alongside you. Perhaps you're wondering if it's possible to have the relationships you've always dreamed of – the kind where you feel seen, heard, and accepted for who you are. Or maybe you're struggling to understand yourself or your loved ones better, and you're searching for a sense of peace or genuine connection. Perhaps you've recently experienced a loss or a change in identity, and you find yourself wondering about how you really see the world or want to exist in it. Maybe you just want to stop fighting with the ones you love.
(902) 461-1721 View (902) 461-1721
Photo of Roy Ellis - Roy Ellis Become Therapy, Counsellor, MDiv, MEd, RCT-C, CSCP
Roy Ellis Become Therapy
Counsellor, MDiv, MEd, RCT-C, CSCP
Online Only
Relationship therapy, traumatic grief and personal growth are my counselling specialties. I help couples, partners and married people build extraordinary relationships. I teach practices to heal past wounds and more deeply connect with yourself and your partner. I work with heterosexual, ENM, lifestyle and polyamorous couples. People seek me out during times of emotional, relational or spiritual transformation related to grief, unwanted change or trauma. I bring 36 years of experience and education to my counselling work, so you can be confident you are in good hands.
Relationship therapy, traumatic grief and personal growth are my counselling specialties. I help couples, partners and married people build extraordinary relationships. I teach practices to heal past wounds and more deeply connect with yourself and your partner. I work with heterosexual, ENM, lifestyle and polyamorous couples. People seek me out during times of emotional, relational or spiritual transformation related to grief, unwanted change or trauma. I bring 36 years of experience and education to my counselling work, so you can be confident you are in good hands.
(782) 222-7225 View (782) 222-7225
Photo of Alison Sanford Thomas, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Alison Sanford Thomas
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Dartmouth, NS B3A
I offer therapy during the perinatal period (pregnancy, postpartum, parenthood), and for concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, birth & reproductive trauma, life transitions, burnout, perfectionism, stress, relationship challenges. As a parent of two young children, I know how easy it is to lose your connection to yourself. Life can unfold differently than you once imagined. I offer space where you can feel seen in the real, messy, raw, and imperfect parts of life. I can support you to reconnect with what matters most and help you build strategies to treat yourself with the same compassion you offer people you care about.
I offer therapy during the perinatal period (pregnancy, postpartum, parenthood), and for concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, birth & reproductive trauma, life transitions, burnout, perfectionism, stress, relationship challenges. As a parent of two young children, I know how easy it is to lose your connection to yourself. Life can unfold differently than you once imagined. I offer space where you can feel seen in the real, messy, raw, and imperfect parts of life. I can support you to reconnect with what matters most and help you build strategies to treat yourself with the same compassion you offer people you care about.
(902) 200-6480 View (902) 200-6480
Photo of Vanessa Furlong, Pre-Licensed Professional, RCT-C, MACP
Vanessa Furlong
Pre-Licensed Professional, RCT-C, MACP
Dartmouth, NS B2V
I offer support for folks navigating life transitions, identity exploration, self-worth, chronic illness/ pain, fertility challenges, and relationship/family dynamics.
I collaborate with my clients using a Person-Centred, trauma informed, neuro and queer affirming approach. I recognize that there are many parts to each of us, and many parts to our stories, therefore my collaborative work with clients is not centred on “fixing" but on aligning those parts of self with how they envision and define “living well”.
I offer support for folks navigating life transitions, identity exploration, self-worth, chronic illness/ pain, fertility challenges, and relationship/family dynamics.
I collaborate with my clients using a Person-Centred, trauma informed, neuro and queer affirming approach. I recognize that there are many parts to each of us, and many parts to our stories, therefore my collaborative work with clients is not centred on “fixing" but on aligning those parts of self with how they envision and define “living well”.
(782) 202-3126 View (782) 202-3126
Photo of Maria Cain, Counsellor, MEd, RCT-C, CCC
Maria Cain
Counsellor, MEd, RCT-C, CCC
6 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3A
It takes courage to ask for support whether you’re dealing with anxiety, stress, grief, depression, chronic pain, anger, irritability, or low self-esteem.
I love working with each client to discover the best way forward based on their unique needs and circumstances. Together, we’ll explore your strengths and how to respond to your thoughts, emotions and bodily responses so you no longer feel overwhelmed. We'll also work together to tailor strategies and action steps so that they work for you.
It takes courage to ask for support whether you’re dealing with anxiety, stress, grief, depression, chronic pain, anger, irritability, or low self-esteem.
I love working with each client to discover the best way forward based on their unique needs and circumstances. Together, we’ll explore your strengths and how to respond to your thoughts, emotions and bodily responses so you no longer feel overwhelmed. We'll also work together to tailor strategies and action steps so that they work for you.
(782) 222-4978 View (782) 222-4978
Photo of Michelle Labine - ML Family Counselling Clinic , Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate, MA , CCC, RCT
ML Family Counselling Clinic
Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate, MA , CCC, RCT
16 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3A
We take the guesswork out of finding the right therapist. We understand that starting therapy can feel overwhelming and choosing someone who is the right fit adds even more pressure. That’s why we’ve designed our process to make it easier. From your very first inquiry, our team listens carefully and helps match you with a therapist who best aligns with your needs, goals, and personality. The relationship between therapist and client is at the heart of meaningful change, we believe fit matters most. You don’t have to navigate this decision alone we’re here to walk with you, making the process clear, supportive, and tailored to you.
We take the guesswork out of finding the right therapist. We understand that starting therapy can feel overwhelming and choosing someone who is the right fit adds even more pressure. That’s why we’ve designed our process to make it easier. From your very first inquiry, our team listens carefully and helps match you with a therapist who best aligns with your needs, goals, and personality. The relationship between therapist and client is at the heart of meaningful change, we believe fit matters most. You don’t have to navigate this decision alone we’re here to walk with you, making the process clear, supportive, and tailored to you.
(902) 201-8346 View (902) 201-8346
Photo of Bruce Lumley, CCh
Bruce Lumley
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Many people describe a feeling of being stuck in their lives. Limiting subconscious core beliefs and habitual thinking are what holds most back from living the life they want. Whether personal or business, I can help you to make the positive changes in yourself so that you can be free and move forward, whether that means stopping a destructive habit, or charting a new course in life.
Many people describe a feeling of being stuck in their lives. Limiting subconscious core beliefs and habitual thinking are what holds most back from living the life they want. Whether personal or business, I can help you to make the positive changes in yourself so that you can be free and move forward, whether that means stopping a destructive habit, or charting a new course in life.
(782) 312-1123 View (782) 312-1123
Photo of Andrea Ennis - Dartmouth Psychological Services Inc., Psychologist
Reaching out for help is not easy, especially when it requires revealing emotional or psychological pain.
Dartmouth Psychological Services Inc. is a team of collaborative and caring practitioners who have been providing evidence-based mental health services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families in the HRM for over 20 years. DPS works collaboratively with the Breathe Mindfulness Centre, which specializes in offering mindfulness and compassion-based classes, workshops and group programs.
Reaching out for help is not easy, especially when it requires revealing emotional or psychological pain.
Dartmouth Psychological Services Inc. is a team of collaborative and caring practitioners who have been providing evidence-based mental health services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families in the HRM for over 20 years. DPS works collaboratively with the Breathe Mindfulness Centre, which specializes in offering mindfulness and compassion-based classes, workshops and group programs.
(902) 510-4653 View (902) 510-4653
Photo of Felicia Burchell, Counsellor, OT Reg, NS,NB, RCT
Felicia Burchell
Counsellor, OT Reg, NS,NB, RCT
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
Not addressing your challenges can lead to prolonged pain.
I am EMDR trained working with those who have trauma and PTSD. I use a number of treatment approaches preferring mindfulness based practices, focusing often on the mind-body connection. I use a strength based approach and always client -centered.
Not addressing your challenges can lead to prolonged pain.
I am EMDR trained working with those who have trauma and PTSD. I use a number of treatment approaches preferring mindfulness based practices, focusing often on the mind-body connection. I use a strength based approach and always client -centered.
(902) 700-7599 View (902) 700-7599
Photo of Isaac LeBlanc, Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Isaac LeBlanc
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
5 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2W
Accepting Clients for April 2026! If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by grief, anxiety, trauma, identity struggles, or life’s challenges, you don’t have to go through it alone. You may be looking for more than a quick fix, you want a space where you feel safe, supported, and truly heard. A place to explore what’s beneath the surface, reconnect with yourself, and begin moving forward. Its time to feel heard and respected.
Accepting Clients for April 2026! If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by grief, anxiety, trauma, identity struggles, or life’s challenges, you don’t have to go through it alone. You may be looking for more than a quick fix, you want a space where you feel safe, supported, and truly heard. A place to explore what’s beneath the surface, reconnect with yourself, and begin moving forward. Its time to feel heard and respected.
(902) 903-0640 View (902) 903-0640
Photo of Mitzi Mitchell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Mitzi Mitchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
I have over 10 years of experience supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges, including working with Veterans, adults, youth, and children in complex situations. My approach is grounded in compassion, deep listening, and a strong belief in your capacity for growth and resilience. I am an approved provider for RCMP members, CAF members, First Nations and Inuit covered under the NIHB Program, and VAC members.
I have over 10 years of experience supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges, including working with Veterans, adults, youth, and children in complex situations. My approach is grounded in compassion, deep listening, and a strong belief in your capacity for growth and resilience. I am an approved provider for RCMP members, CAF members, First Nations and Inuit covered under the NIHB Program, and VAC members.
(902) 461-1721 View (902) 461-1721
Photo of Louise Doucet, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RCT-C
Louise Doucet
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RCT-C
Dartmouth, NS B3A
When facing an overwhelming emotional experience, so many people feel lost, isolated and alone. Counselling, first and foremost, is a way to relieve that sense of aloneness and form a trusting, collaborative relationship with someone who accepts you just as you are. My goal is for you to gain a deep understanding of yourself, your needs, feelings, and behaviours, and how these impact your everyday life and relationships. We will work to create the tools and strategies you need to be empowered to live your life authentically and feel fulfilled.
When facing an overwhelming emotional experience, so many people feel lost, isolated and alone. Counselling, first and foremost, is a way to relieve that sense of aloneness and form a trusting, collaborative relationship with someone who accepts you just as you are. My goal is for you to gain a deep understanding of yourself, your needs, feelings, and behaviours, and how these impact your everyday life and relationships. We will work to create the tools and strategies you need to be empowered to live your life authentically and feel fulfilled.
(782) 201-1995 View (782) 201-1995
Photo of Laura Shay, Counsellor, MA, RCT
Laura Shay
Counsellor, MA, RCT
5 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2X
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be challenging and sometimes it can be difficult to know the steps we need to take to better understand ourselves and live the life we want to live. I work from the perspective that being a human is hard and that we all face struggles throughout our life. While these challenges may be unavoidable, therapy can provide a place to feel seen and help shift your perspective, discover more about yourself, connect with your feelings, and discover meaning from your experiences.
Life can be challenging and sometimes it can be difficult to know the steps we need to take to better understand ourselves and live the life we want to live. I work from the perspective that being a human is hard and that we all face struggles throughout our life. While these challenges may be unavoidable, therapy can provide a place to feel seen and help shift your perspective, discover more about yourself, connect with your feelings, and discover meaning from your experiences.
(782) 821-5547 View (782) 821-5547
Photo of Rachael Mancini, Counsellor, BA, MA
Rachael Mancini
Counsellor, BA, MA
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
Offering services at Mancini Counselling (Dartmouth) and SMB Counselling Group (Bedford). I recall going to my first therapy session, and I was a bit nervous! Now, as a therapist, I focus on building a strong, trusting relationship with my clients by establishing a safe and comfortable environment. My relaxed, client-focused approach is ideal for those who may feel apprehensive about the therapeutic process, and we can collaboratively tailor treatment plans to align with your strengths and needs.
Offering services at Mancini Counselling (Dartmouth) and SMB Counselling Group (Bedford). I recall going to my first therapy session, and I was a bit nervous! Now, as a therapist, I focus on building a strong, trusting relationship with my clients by establishing a safe and comfortable environment. My relaxed, client-focused approach is ideal for those who may feel apprehensive about the therapeutic process, and we can collaboratively tailor treatment plans to align with your strengths and needs.
(782) 822-5052 View (782) 822-5052
Photo of Carla Gillis, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RCT, DipTIRP, MFA
Carla Gillis
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RCT, DipTIRP, MFA
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I work collaboratively and sensitively with whatever issues you want to explore. This could include relationship challenges, emotional regulation, difficulties getting needs met, conflict aversion, poor self-concept, anxiety, depression and trauma. We may spend time exploring the past, but our focus will also remain on present-day experiences. Such work can help build self-understanding, self-compassion and emotional tolerance. It can help clarify thinking and enhance problem-solving. It is intuitive work – we start with where you are and what you want help with, and then find our way through the unknown together.
I work collaboratively and sensitively with whatever issues you want to explore. This could include relationship challenges, emotional regulation, difficulties getting needs met, conflict aversion, poor self-concept, anxiety, depression and trauma. We may spend time exploring the past, but our focus will also remain on present-day experiences. Such work can help build self-understanding, self-compassion and emotional tolerance. It can help clarify thinking and enhance problem-solving. It is intuitive work – we start with where you are and what you want help with, and then find our way through the unknown together.
(782) 608-0381 View (782) 608-0381
Photo of Kate Zsiros, Registered Counselling Therapist - Candidate, MACP, RCT-C
Kate Zsiros
Registered Counselling Therapist - Candidate, MACP, RCT-C
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2W
I work with individuals who are running on empty, struggling with low self worth, and are wanting to improve their relationships, whether that be with their family, friends, partner, or themselves. People I work with are often navigating high expectations, feel an inner pressure to hold it all together, and are carrying past experiences that impact their ability to connect, be present, and live a life in alignment with their goals and values. Through a collaborative approach, we can work together to help you better understand yourself, feel more grounded in who you are, and show up more authentically.
I work with individuals who are running on empty, struggling with low self worth, and are wanting to improve their relationships, whether that be with their family, friends, partner, or themselves. People I work with are often navigating high expectations, feel an inner pressure to hold it all together, and are carrying past experiences that impact their ability to connect, be present, and live a life in alignment with their goals and values. Through a collaborative approach, we can work together to help you better understand yourself, feel more grounded in who you are, and show up more authentically.
(866) 620-6673 View (866) 620-6673
Photo of Janet Budd, Counsellor, MA, RCT, CCC, CST
Janet Budd
Counsellor, MA, RCT, CCC, CST
4 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3A
In my sex therapy practice, I provide compassionate, evidence-informed sex therapy for individuals and couples (monogamous and consensually non-monogamous relationships) navigating intimacy conversations, desire differences, arousal challenges, pain, and sexual wellbeing.
My therapy services person-centered and I practice from a trauma informed and culturally sensitive lens. I am a Certified Sex Therapist, and trained in compassion focused therapy (CFT), Gottman couples therapy, and emotionally focused therapy (EFT) to support individuals and couples in therapy.
In my sex therapy practice, I provide compassionate, evidence-informed sex therapy for individuals and couples (monogamous and consensually non-monogamous relationships) navigating intimacy conversations, desire differences, arousal challenges, pain, and sexual wellbeing.
My therapy services person-centered and I practice from a trauma informed and culturally sensitive lens. I am a Certified Sex Therapist, and trained in compassion focused therapy (CFT), Gottman couples therapy, and emotionally focused therapy (EFT) to support individuals and couples in therapy.
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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.