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Mental Health Support for Parkinson's Disease

Living with Parkinson's disease brings emotional as well as physical challenges. While our network of specialists is growing, you can explore therapists who support clients navigating chronic illness and its impact.

Therapists

Want help finding the right therapist? Call or text us at 778-486-0068
  • Photo of Ashley Ploof-Montano

    Ashley Ploof-Montano

    Canadian Certified Counsellor

    • Virtual sessions in AB, BC, MB, NU, NT, SK
  • Photo of Dennis Keefe

    Dennis Keefe

    Registered Psychotherapist

    • Virtual sessions in ON
  • Photo of Courtney Doherty

    Courtney Doherty

    Registered Clinical Counsellor

    • Virtual sessions in all provinces and territories.
Browse all therapists

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, but its impact extends beyond physical symptoms. Many people with Parkinson's experience anxiety, depression, grief about changes to their abilities, and challenges adjusting to a new reality. The emotional aspects of living with Parkinson's deserve attention alongside medical care.

Therapy can provide support for the psychological and emotional dimensions of living with Parkinson's. Whether you're processing a new diagnosis, adapting to changes in your daily life, managing anxiety or depression, or navigating relationship shifts, working with a therapist can help. On First Session, you can explore therapists who work with chronic illness, health anxiety, and life transitions. Browse profiles and watch intro videos to find supportive care.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Parkinson's disease affect mental health?

Parkinson's can affect mental health in multiple ways. Depression and anxiety are common, sometimes related to brain changes caused by the disease itself. People may also experience grief about changing abilities, stress about the future, relationship challenges, or difficulty adjusting to a new identity. Cognitive changes can also occur as the disease progresses.

What emotional challenges come with Parkinson's?

Common emotional challenges include grief over lost abilities, anxiety about disease progression, depression, frustration with physical limitations, fear about the future, relationship stress, and identity shifts. Caregivers and family members may also experience emotional challenges and benefit from support.

How can therapy help someone with Parkinson's?

Therapy can provide a space to process the emotional impact of living with Parkinson's, develop coping strategies, address depression or anxiety, navigate relationship changes, and work through grief about the diagnosis. Therapists can also help with adjustment, finding meaning, and maintaining quality of life.

How do I find a therapist who understands chronic illness?

On First Session, you can browse therapist profiles and look for those who work with chronic illness, health concerns, life transitions, or aging. While our network of Parkinson's specialists is growing, many therapists understand the emotional dimensions of living with chronic health conditions. Watch intro videos to find someone supportive.

Are there related areas of support I could explore?

Yes—if you're living with Parkinson's, you might explore therapists who work with chronic illness, aging, life transitions, depression, anxiety, or grief. These areas often overlap with the experience of Parkinson's and can provide meaningful support.

How can First Session help me find support?

First Session connects you with licensed therapists across Canada. Browse profiles, watch intro videos, and filter by specialty or availability. All therapists have their credentials verified during onboarding, making it easier to find compassionate, qualified support for your journey.

You deserve more from therapy.

You made the courageous decision to reach your full potential. Find the right therapist to help get you there, and make the most of the time and money you’re investing in yourself.

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