Scoliosis Mental Health

Empowering people of all ages to Embrace life with Scoliosis

My mission is to bridge the gap between mental health care and scoliosis. Everyone talks about the physical symptoms of scoliosis such as pain or asymmetry. But who talks about the anxiety or depression people might experience? or the body image concerns? or the shame you might feel? Who talks about the emotions behind scoliosis? - I do.

Hi, I’m Colleen.

And I’m the person that talks about Mental Health for Kids and Adults living with Scoliosis. Here is a little bit about me and my BACKground (pun intended). I grew up as a competitive figure skater, I was on the ice learning how to skate by the time I was 3 years old. One day my mom was rubbing my back and noticed that my spine disappeared, this lead to x-rays and many doctor appointments with the diagnosis of Scoliosis. That picture of the girl skating, that’s me! The picture of the x-ray, that’s also me! Despite being told I needed surgery, we decided as a family to seek non-operative treatment and I continued skating.

Growing up with scoliosis, we talked a lot about the physical aspects but never the emotional ones and sometimes it’s tough, but that’s why I’m here.

As a psychotherapist I use a person-centered approach utilizing modalities originating from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

So that’s a little about my background, here are some of my credentials:

  • Registered Psychotherapist, CRPO

  • Canadian Certified Counsellor, CCPA

  • MA Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University

  • MSc Sport & Exercise Psychology, Staffordshire University

  • Scolios-Us Mental Health Provider Level 1

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is characterized by a curvature in the spine that measures at least 10 degrees. Often, scoliosis appears as a C-shaped curve or an S-shaped curve. The most common type of scoliosis is idiopathic, meaning it has no known cause. Other causes of scoliosis may include Congenital, where vertebrae develop incorrectly and are present at birth, or Neuromuscular, which is caused by abnormalities in the muscles or nerves and is often associated with conditions such as spina bifida or cerebral palsy.

Treatment for scoliosis varies on the severity of the curve, often referred to as the Cobb angle, and the patient’s preference. Treatment options include Observation, Bracing, Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercises (PSSE), and Surgery.

Mental health includes our psychological, emotional, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, which also impacts how we handle stress and relate to others and the choices we make in life. Living with scoliosis can present many challenges beyond the physical symptoms. Because scoliosis may visibly alter a person’s appearance they might feel self-conscious or experience body image concerns. Additionally, coping with chronic pain, limited mobility, and the uncertainty surrounding treatment outcomes can lead to increased stress, isolation, anxiety, and depression. Here are some things you may relate to when living with scoliosis:

  • Body Image concerns

  • Anxiety and Stress

  • Depression

  • Isolation and social anxiety

  • Low Self-esteem

  • Stress related to treatment (Bracing or Surgery)

  • Fear of Judgement or Bullying

  • Chronic pain

  • Fear about the future

Why Counselling?

Reducing Anxiety and Stress: Counseling offers techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to manage anxiety and stress by challenging negative thoughts and building coping skills.

Cultivating Positive Body Image: Therapy provides a supportive environment for patients to explore body image concerns and develop self-acceptance and confidence.

Managing Depressive Symptoms: Counseling interventions address depressive symptoms by exploring emotions, fostering resilience, and developing healthy coping strategies.

Building Social Connections: Therapy helps patients develop social skills, improve communication, and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Boosting Self-Esteem and Self-Worth: Through therapy, patients can challenge negative self-perceptions and cultivate a more positive self-image.

Coping with Treatment-Related Stress: Counseling offers emotional support and coping strategies to navigate treatment decisions and reduce stress.

Empowering Against Bullying and Stigma: Therapy empowers patients to build resilience, develop assertiveness, and manage social anxiety.

Developing Pain Management Strategies: Counseling provides techniques like mindfulness and relaxation to cope with chronic pain and enhance quality of life.

Fostering Hope and Resilience: Therapy helps patients develop coping skills, explore values, and cultivate hope for the future amidst uncertainty.

Mental Health

You can still live a Happy and Healthy life with Scoliosis.

— Colleen

Contact us.

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