Alternate Therapies

Massage

Massage is an excellent complementary therapy that provides relief from symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression, in addition to its positive impact on the body. The rubbing and kneading of muscles helps to reduce tension and emotional stress.

The physical sensations associated with anxiety can take a considerable toll on the body, in particular increased muscle tension. These physical sensations can remain even after the person is no longer in the anxiety provoking situation. Because we as human beings make strong associations between bodily sensations and thoughts, ongoing physical symptoms increase the likelihood of experiencing anxiety in the future. Massage can be an extremely important adjunct to treating the physical symptoms of anxiety. Trauma-related anxiety can have a particularly significant impact on the body either due to direct physical injury or the psychological impact of trauma.

There is also mounting evidence that massage has a positive impact on depression symptoms. Massage appears to stimulate hormones and brain chemicals, as well as the release of toxins, increasing positive emotions. Touch alone may be enough to bring about these positive effects, though the depth of the massage can bring about increased release of toxins. Massage combined with psychotherapy can provide additional relief of symptoms.

The massage therapists that we recommend have particular expertise in the use of bodywork with our clients. In Calgary, contact Stacey Sproule (403) 397-7129 and in Vancouver contact .

Nutritionist/Dietian

A nutritionist can assess nutritional needs and make dietary suggestions that can increase an individual's physical and psychological functioning. The food and liquids we consume impact our overall emotional well-being.

If you would like to speak with a nutritionist In Calgary, call Wania Wagner at (403) 803-3106.

Yoga Therapy

The ancient discipline of Yoga has a wide range of positive effects. People are often aware of the physical benefits of increased flexibility and relief from pain, as well as reducing the impact of stress. However, yoga has been shown to have psychological benefits beyond mere stress reduction.

In addition to talking through emotional issues in psychotherapy, engaging in Yoga Therapy can bring added relief from symptoms that reside at a level beyond awareness. Because we are as much physical as mental beings emotional problems can be stored in the body and have a significant impact on our day-to-day functioning. As such, many of the physical symptoms that people experience may have a psychological source.

Yoga Therapy is able to access beliefs and emotions that escape our everyday awareness by working through the body in an effective and powerful way. Whereas psychotherapy accesses a problem by engaging the mind, Yoga Therapy accesses a problem by engaging the body. A combination of psychotherapy and Yoga Therapy can often lead to greater insight and considerable relief of symptoms.

Contact one of our psychologists today in Calgary (403-313-8309) to find out how we can help, and in Vancouver contact us for a referral. You can also contact us by e-mail.