Psychology Services in Edmonton
Support, Understanding and Strategies for Meaningful Change
Mental health can affect how you feel, think, relate to others, manage stress, cope with pain, and participate in everyday life. You don't have to wait until things feel overwhelming to reach out for support.
At Strathcona Physical Therapy, we provide individualized psychology services in a confidential, compassionate, and supportive environment. Our approach begins with understanding your experiences, concerns, strengths, and the changes you would like to make.
Psychology may help if you are experiencing trauma or PTSD, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, stress, ADHD, relationship challenges, difficult life experiences, or other concerns affecting your emotional well-being and daily life.
Treatment is personalized rather than one-size-fits-all. Depending on your needs and goals, your psychologist may draw from evidence-informed approaches such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and specialized approaches for persistent pain.
Whether you are working through a specific challenge or looking to better understand yourself and create meaningful change, our goal is to provide a space where you feel heard, respected, and supported.
How Can Psychology Help?
Psychology can provide support when your thoughts, emotions, experiences, relationships, pain, or life circumstances begin to affect your well-being and everyday life.
At Strathcona Physical Therapy, psychology services may help with:
Trauma & PTSD
Support for processing traumatic or difficult experiences, reducing trauma-related distress, and developing greater safety, understanding, and confidence in everyday life.
Anxiety & Stress
Support for persistent worry, fear, overwhelm, panic, stress, and patterns of thinking or behaviour that may be interfering with daily life.
Depression & Low Mood
Support for low mood, loss of motivation or interest, negative thinking patterns, and difficulties engaging in relationships, responsibilities, and meaningful activities.
Chronic Pain
Psychological support for the emotional, behavioural, and nervous system factors that can accompany persistent pain, with strategies aimed at improving coping, function, and quality of life.
ADHD & Executive Functioning
Support for challenges related to attention, organization, motivation, emotional regulation, time management, and managing the demands of everyday life.
Difficult Life Experiences & Transitions
Support during periods of change, loss, uncertainty, relationship difficulties, work-related stress, or other experiences that may be affecting your emotional well-being.
Emotional Regulation & Coping
Develop greater awareness of emotions, understand patterns and triggers, and build healthier strategies for responding to difficult thoughts, feelings, and situations.
Personal Growth & Well-Being
Psychology isn't only for times of crisis. Therapy can also provide a space to better understand yourself, explore patterns, strengthen relationships, and work toward meaningful personal goals.
Meet Our Psychologist
Justin Long, M.C.P.
Registered Psychologist
Clinical Interests: Trauma & PTSD • Chronic Pain • Anxiety & Depression • EMDR • ACT & CBT
Justin is a Registered Psychologist with more than a decade of experience in mental health and counselling. He holds a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from Adler University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Alberta.
Justin works with adults experiencing trauma and PTSD, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, stress, and other mental health concerns. His approach is individualized and draws from a range of evidence-informed therapeutic methods, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and existential-humanistic approaches.
Justin has a particular clinical interest in the relationship between psychological health and persistent pain. His training in chronic pain management includes Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) and Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET). He has also completed advanced training in EMDR and incorporates Animal-Assisted Psychotherapy into his practice when appropriate.
In addition to his clinical work, Justin has experience in post-secondary education, professional speaking, writing, and community initiatives related to mental health, chronic pain, and youth support.
Learn about our services
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We offer trauma-focused therapies such as EMDR and Trauma-Focused CBT, aiming to help you process traumatic experiences and develop effective coping strategies.
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Chronic pain not only affects the body but also takes a toll on one's mental well-being. We offer evidence-based strategies to help individuals cope with and manage the emotional and cognitive aspects of persistent pain.
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Through techniques such as CBT, mindfulness, and relaxation exercises, we help you understand and manage anxiety symptoms, promoting healthier responses to stress.
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Our team provides a safe, supportive environment to help you manage and overcome symptoms of depression, utilizing methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT).
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We offer strategies to help you identify stress triggers, develop effective coping mechanisms, and enhance resilience, leading to improved mental wellbeing.
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Our psychologists work with couples to enhance communication, resolve conflicts, and deepen understanding and empathy within relationships.
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We provide support for families facing challenges, helping improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen family bonds.
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We offer age-appropriate therapeutic interventions to help teens cope with a range of issues, from ADHD and behavioural problems to anxiety and depression.
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We offer a supportive environment to understand and overcome substance abuse, utilizing evidence-based approaches to foster recovery and prevent relapse.
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We provide a holistic approach to eating disorder treatment, addressing psychological, physical, and nutritional aspects to promote recovery.
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Our compassionate therapists are here to provide support and help you navigate the complex emotions associated with loss.
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We facilitate various group therapy sessions, providing a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences and learn from one another.
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Our psychologists can help you understand your skills and interests to make informed career decisions, manage workplace stress, and balance work-life demands.
Remember, our goal is to provide compassionate, personalized care to help improve your mental wellbeing. Reach out to us today to find the right service for your needs.
Trauma Therapy: Healing and Resilience
At Strathcona Physical Therapy, we recognize the profound impact that trauma can have on an individual's overall well-being. Traumatic experiences, be it physical, emotional, or psychological, have the potential to disrupt one's life and hinder personal growth. That's why we offer Trauma Therapy, a dedicated program designed to support individuals on their journey towards healing, resilience, and a brighter future.
Understanding Trauma
Trauma manifests in various forms, such as accidents, abuse, natural disasters, or witnessing a distressing event. These experiences can leave lasting imprints on the mind and body, causing emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and a variety of physical symptoms. Recognizing the complexity and uniqueness of each individual's trauma, our therapy approach at Strathcona Physical Therapy is tailored to suit each person's needs.
Compassionate and Specialized Approach
Our trauma therapy program is rooted in evidence-based practices combined with empathy and compassion. Our team of experienced Psychologists provides a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore and process their traumatic experiences. By creating a trusting therapeutic relationship, we empower individuals to navigate the healing journey at their own pace.
Holistic Treatment Modalities
We embrace a holistic approach to trauma therapy, understanding that trauma affects the mind, body, and spirit. Our therapy sessions integrate various modalities to address the multidimensional aspects of trauma, such as:
1. Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT): This evidence-based approach helps individuals identify and challenge negative beliefs and thoughts related to their trauma, develop coping strategies, and promote healthier behaviors and emotional regulation.
2. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): With its foundation in bilateral stimulation, EMDR aims to access and reprocess distressing memories, reducing their emotional potency and enabling individuals to integrate positive beliefs and associations.
3. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: By incorporating mindfulness practices, guided imagery, and relaxation techniques, individuals can learn to regulate their emotions, reduce anxiety, and cultivate a sense of grounding and inner peace.
4. Expressive arts therapy: Utilizing the creative arts, such as drawing, painting, or writing, individuals can explore and express emotions that may be difficult to verbalize. This therapeutic modality encourages self-discovery, self-expression, and provides alternative avenues for healing.
ADHD Treatment with Our Psychologist at Strathcona Physical Therapy
We understand that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can present significant challenges in your daily life. Managing the symptoms of ADHD requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses various therapies, including psychological intervention. Our team of dedicated professionals, including our experienced psychologist, is here to provide you with the specialized ADHD treatment you need.
Understanding ADHD
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults, impacting their ability to sustain attention, control impulsive behaviors, and manage hyperactivity. It can have a significant impact on various aspects of life, such as academic performance, occupational functioning, and interpersonal relationships. However, with appropriate diagnosis, support, and targeted interventions, individuals with ADHD can lead fulfilling and successful lives.
The Role of Our Psychologist
At Strathcona Physical Therapy, our psychologist plays a crucial role in the comprehensive treatment of ADHD. They work closely with you to gain a deep understanding of your unique challenges and develop tailored strategies to address them effectively. Our psychologist specializes in evidence-based therapies that have proven efficacy in managing ADHD symptoms.
Psychological Interventions for ADHD
Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT is a commonly used approach for ADHD treatment. It aims to help individuals develop effective coping strategies and skills to manage impulsive behaviors, improve time management, enhance organizational abilities, and boost attention span. Through CBT, our psychologist will assist you in identifying negative patterns of thought and behaviour and replacing them with healthier alternatives.
Parent Training and Education: For children (13+) diagnosed with ADHD, our psychologist offers parent training and education programs. These programs equip parents with the necessary tools and knowledge to support their children in managing ADHD-related challenges effectively. They provide guidance on setting up routines, creating structure, and implementing behavioural management techniques at home.
Stress and Anxiety Management: ADHD can often coexist with stress and anxiety. Our psychologist will work with you to identify and address any additional mental health concerns that may exacerbate ADHD symptoms. They will explore stress reduction techniques, relaxation exercises, and helpful coping strategies to minimize the impact of anxiety on your daily life.
Social Skills Training: Many individuals with ADHD struggle with social interactions and building meaningful relationships. Our psychologist can provide social skills training to improve communication, emotional regulation, and social problem-solving abilities.
Chronic Pain: Understanding the Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
Chronic pain is a complex condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Unlike acute pain, which generally lasts for a short duration, chronic pain persists for an extended period, typically for three months or longer. It can result from a variety of underlying causes, and its impact goes beyond physical discomfort, often affecting an individual's mental and emotional well-being. At Strathcona Physical Therapy, we acknowledge the multifaceted nature of chronic pain and offer comprehensive treatment options, including collaboration with our skilled psychiatrists.
Symptoms and Impact:
The symptoms of chronic pain can vary widely, depending on the underlying condition. Patients may experience persistent pain in specific areas, such as the back, neck, or joints. They might also encounter continuous muscle stiffness or generalized body pain. Besides physical symptoms, chronic pain can lead to emotional distress, fatigue, mood swings, depression, anxiety, and reduced quality of life. This often creates a vicious cycle where the emotional impact worsens the perception of pain, further exacerbating the condition.
Causes of Chronic Pain:
Chronic pain can stem from various factors, including injuries, inflammatory diseases, nerve damage, or certain medical conditions such as fibromyalgia or arthritis. It may also be a result of past surgeries, persistent infections, or even psychological factors such as stress or trauma. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan.
Common Types of Chronic Pain:
Neck and back pain: Often due to prolonged poor posture, injuries, or degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis.
Migraine and other headaches: These can be triggered by various factors, including tension and environmental factors.
Arthritis pain: A result of inflammation in the joints.
Nerve pain: Arises from conditions like sciatica or neuropathies.
Pelvic pain: Common in conditions like endometriosis or chronic prostatitis.
Fibromyalgia: Causes pain all over the body, accompanied by fatigue and sleep issues.
Understanding Chronic Pain:
Our team of skilled psychologists is trained in understanding the profound impact of chronic pain on your daily life, emotions, and mental health. We can help you grasp the interplay of physical pain and psychological distress and develop strategies to manage it effectively.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This approach is often used to help individuals cope with chronic pain. It enables you to understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact to influence your perception of pain. Through CBT, you can learn techniques to reframe negative thought patterns and improve pain management.
PRT (Pain Reprocessing Therapy): Patients are guided to reinterpret pain signals, transitioning from a pain-centric mindset to one of recovery and resilience.
EAET (Emotion Awareness and Expression Therapy): This therapeutic approach helps individuals recognize suppressed emotions that might be amplifying their pain experience.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: We offer therapies to help you focus on your body's sensations in the present moment. This can improve your ability to cope with chronic pain and reduce the stress associated with it.
Psychoeducation: Knowledge is power. We provide information about the psychology of pain, helping you understand how your mind impacts your perception of pain. This knowledge can empower you to take control of your pain management journey.
Support and Coping Mechanisms: Chronic pain can lead to feelings of isolation. Our services include group therapy and support sessions, where you can share experiences and coping strategies with others dealing with similar challenges.
Addressing Co-Occurring Disorders: Chronic pain often co-exists with conditions like depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Our comprehensive approach means we'll work on treating these conditions alongside your pain management.
Family Education and Support: We provide support and education for family members to help them understand chronic pain and the ways they can support their loved ones.
Remember, you're not alone in your battle against chronic pain. Our compassionate, knowledgeable team is here to provide the care and support you need, with a focus on improving your overall quality of life. Together, we can make living with chronic pain more manageable. Reach out to us today to begin your journey towards better pain management.
Understanding Anxiety
Anxiety is a prevalent mental health condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. At Strathcona Physical Therapy, our dedicated team of psychologists recognizes the impact that anxiety can have on a person's well-being. We offer comprehensive services and support to help individuals manage and overcome anxiety. In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of anxiety, including its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.
Causes of Anxiety:
Anxiety can arise from a variety of factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, personality traits, and life experiences. Some individuals may have a family history of anxiety, suggesting a genetic component. Additionally, imbalances in certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine, may contribute to the development of anxiety. Environmental factors such as traumatic events, chronic stress, or certain phobias can also trigger anxiety symptoms.
Symptoms of Anxiety:
Anxiety can manifest both physically and emotionally, and its symptoms can vary from person to person. Common physical symptoms include rapid heartbeat, elevated blood pressure, sweating, shortness of breath, gastrointestinal distress, and dizziness. Emotionally, individuals with anxiety may experience excessive worry, feelings of restlessness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbances. Anxiety can significantly interfere with daily life, affecting relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life.
Available Treatment Options:
At Strathcona Physical Therapy, we offer evidence-based treatment options to help individuals effectively manage and overcome anxiety. Our comprehensive approach considers the unique needs and goals of each individual, and our psychologists work closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans. Some of the treatment options we offer include:
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a widely recognized and effective therapy for anxiety. It helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety. Through CBT, clients learn coping strategies, relaxation techniques, and problem-solving skills to better manage anxiety symptoms.
2. Exposure Therapy: This form of therapy aims to desensitize individuals to anxiety-inducing situations or triggers. Gradual exposure to feared situations, under the guidance of a trained therapist, helps individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms and reduces anxiety responses over time.
3. Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage anxiety symptoms. Our psychologists work collaboratively with clients' primary care physicians or psychiatrists to determine if medication is appropriate for the management of anxiety symptoms.