Living with a chronic illness or persistent pain affects not only your body but every aspect of your life—your mood, relationships, sense of self, and hope for the future. At Wholesome Psychology, our mission is to walk alongside you on your unique journey, offering compassionate, evidence-based counseling with deep respect for your lived experience. Serving clients in both Edmonton and St. Albert, we’re here to support you in managing the emotional, mental, and relational challenges that come with chronic conditions and pain. For those looking for support in these areas, learn more about our counselling services or explore specific options for North Edmonton and St. Albert Campbell Park locations.
Understanding Chronic Illness and Chronic Pain
Chronic illnesses can include conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, fibromyalgia, arthritis, epilepsy, lupus, cancer, and many others. Chronic pain, whether from medical conditions or injuries, lasts for months or years—sometimes even after the cause has been treated. Up to one in five Canadians experiences chronic pain at some point in their lives. Both chronic illness and pain can have a profound impact well beyond physical symptoms, frequently affecting:
- Mental health (anxiety, depression, frustration, hopelessness) – see our page on Anxiety Treatment or Depression for more information.
- Energy and motivation
- Relationships, intimacy, and social life – learn more about relationship and intimacy counseling.
- Ability to work, study, or participate in favourite activities
- Sense of purpose and identity
You do not have to face these struggles alone. Individual counseling can provide a safe, supportive space to process what you’re experiencing and learn how to rediscover hope, resilience, and meaning in your daily life. Discover our approach to therapy and counseling.
Common Emotional and Psychological Challenges with Chronic Illness
It’s normal to feel a wide range of emotions when navigating a chronic health diagnosis or persistent pain. At different stages, you might notice:
- Grief over loss of abilities, independence, or the life you envisioned – see our support for grief and loss.
- Worries about the future, your health, and your loved ones
- Feelings of anger, guilt, or shame for being unable to do what you once did
- Struggles with identity—Who am I now?
- Frustration with medical appointments, systems, or feeling "not believed"
- Isolation and loneliness, especially if others do not understand your experience
- Anxiety, including panic, about symptoms or health flare-ups
- Depression, hopelessness, or thoughts of giving up
- Relationship tensions or changes in intimacy
- Worries about managing daily life, work, or finances
We provide a nonjudgmental, validating space to acknowledge and work through these feelings. Our goal is to empower you with tools to cope and thrive—no matter the circumstances. Explore more about stress management and acceptance and commitment therapy.
How Chronic Illness and Pain Counseling Can Help
Every person’s journey with chronic illness and pain is different—and so is every therapeutic approach. We work collaboratively with you to create a personalized support plan that may include:
- Emotion regulation skills for anxiety, anger, and grief – consider our Emotional Regulation support.
- Practical strategies for pacing, activity planning, and boundary setting
- Cognitive reframing to challenge unhelpful thought patterns and build resilience
- Identity work—rediscovering your strengths and sense of purpose
- Communication skills for discussing your needs with loved ones or healthcare professionals
- Mindfulness and acceptance approaches for living with what cannot be changed – see Mindfulness Therapy.
- Support navigating the healthcare system and advocating for yourself
- Relationship or family counseling when illness affects your home life – find out more about family counseling.
The Wholesome Psychology Approach: Human, Attuned, and Hopeful
Drawing from our core values of empathy, wholeness, and respect for diversity, our team creates an experience where you feel seen, heard, and genuinely cared for. We understand the importance of trauma-informed care and the social, cultural, and spiritual influences that can shape your illness experience. Our therapists honour your values, preferences, and lived expertise as part of the healing process.
Our practice is inclusive and welcomes individuals from all walks of life, including LGBTQ2S+ communities, Indigenous Peoples, newcomers, and anyone facing unique challenges in their healthcare journey.
If you’re also managing issues like depression or anxiety, our broad expertise means we can address these alongside your health-related concerns. Learn more about our compassionate team on the Our Therapists page.
Making Everyday Life More Manageable
Therapy for chronic illness and pain is not about “fixing” you—it’s about supporting you to live a life that aligns with your values and unique circumstances, even in the midst of challenges. We help you:
- Develop flexible coping strategies that adapt to good and bad days
- Reconnect with sources of joy, creativity, and calm
- Address perfectionism or internalized stigma around chronic illness
- Foster hope and cultivate meaning—the cornerstones of resilience
You deserve to feel understood and respected by your healthcare providers. At Wholesome Psychology, our Edmonton and St. Albert offices strive to be a safe, welcoming space for all. You can also learn more about our locations or our virtual support through online counseling.
Why Consider Chronic Illness Counseling?
- Counseling can ease feelings of overwhelm, isolation, frustration, and hopelessness
- Psychotherapy improves quality of life, even if symptoms remain
- Support helps you advocate for yourself, family, and care in medical settings
- Improved communication and coping can strengthen relationships – more about communication and negotiation.
- Therapy offers tools to navigate setbacks, flare-ups, and uncertainty
Early support can make a significant difference in your adjustment, mental health, and ability to find hope—even when things are tough.
Your Next Step: Book a Session in Edmonton or St. Albert
If you or a loved one are navigating the challenges of a chronic illness or persistent pain, we invite you to connect with our compassionate team today. Our therapists are experienced in supporting individuals and families across a wide range of conditions. Sessions are available in-person at our Edmonton and St. Albert locations, or via confidential online video.
Ready to take the next step toward relief and renewed hope? Reach out to us to contact our team or visit our Our Therapists page to find the right match for you.
You are not alone. Together, we can help you find lightness, meaning, and agency no matter where you are on your health journey.
Related Services at Wholesome Psychology
Wholesome Psychology: Honouring your whole experience—body, mind, and spirit—every step of the way.
