Jeannette Kennedy, Psychologist
19384 Hwy 2 B0N 2J0 Stewiacke, NS, Canada

As the province begins to open up, I am continuing to primarily do tele-psychology rather than in-person sessions. My decision is based on the Nova Scotia Board of Examiners in Psychology (NSBEP) recommendations "members are encouraged to provide services virtually rather than having clients receive psychological services in person...for the duration of the pandemic." Wishing everyone well during these challenging times!

https://m.youtube.com/watch

Association of Psychologists of Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Health Authority are collaborating to increase suppor...t to Nova Scotians impacted by the tragic events of April 18 and 19. A roster of psychologists across Nova Scotia is offering a free service called Psychological Support Session. Learn more: http://www.nshealth.ca//nsha-government-psychologists-coll

Although a good article, one of the challenges in agreeing to do interviews is that the message you intend may not always be the message that is received. I had hoped to convey that there are pros, cons and limitations to telepsychology. One of the benefits of telepsychology is that those who have accessibility issues, either because they live in a remote location or have physical health barriers, increases their ability to receive psychological services. During times suc...h as a pandemic and the need for physical distancing, continuity of care is maintained through telepsychology. There is also value in being available to assist a client through a crisis moment remotely, as is part of the Dialectical Behaviour Therapy model. In terms of cons and limitations, it may be difficult to access very emotionally distressing content via telepsychology. Emotional dysregulation can be more easily contained in the therapeutic office, which is viewed as a safe space. There are also privacy and confidentiality concerns as the client may not be able to have that in their personal space. In reference to many people heading to the hospitals, the discussion was in relation to the possibility that, if the pandemic and emergency measures continue for weeks or months, this may result in an increase in mental health concerns and the availability of psychologists may become limited due to being at capacity. I’d also like to add that assessing what is therapeutically appropriate for each client is vital and working around barriers or limitations as best we can is key. https://www.cbc.ca//move-to-phone-video-appointments-helpi

As I have been out of the country I will be voluntarily isolating for the next two weeks starting today, March 16, 2020. I will be available for phone or video sessions during this time period or your session can be rescheduled. After this time period if you are symptomatic or have been out of country please make arrangements to reschedule your appointment or request a phone or video session to assist in the prevention of the spread of COVID-19. DBT groups are being postpo...ned until further notice. Also, here is a link from the Canadian Association of Psychologists regarding COVID-19 as a guide during this time. https://cpa.ca//Fact/PsychologyWorksFactSheet-COVID-19.pdf

Check out these free talks in your area!

While I am unable to make comments about this tragic event, I was interviewed by Lindsay Jones in the hope of raising awareness regarding the importance of Psychologists in assessing and treating those with Mental Illness.

Watch Tricia Walsh's TEDTalk about her experience with EMDR therapy and how through her experiences she believes EMDR may be able to heal our traumas. Very similar to my own experiences personally and professionally, which is why I use EMDR therapy as part of my clinical practice. https://youtu.be/lOkSm90f2Do

Wishing everyone a wonderful day! This truly is possible no matter your circumstances - gratitude, compassion, and being mindfully present can fill our souls.

Interview with CBC which includes a small piece (of an hour long interview) on why it is so critical to have Psychologist's involved in the diagnosis and treatment of PTSD and other mental heath concerns. Early intervention and access to treatment not only helps the individual who may be suffering, it helps all of those who are in their lives as there is a ripple effect that occurs.

https://www.cbc.ca//psychologists-dartmouth-operational-st As APNS President I am honoured to have been interviewed by CBC on the importance of treatment for PTSD (and other mental health conditions) for individuals and those in their lives.

I am so excited to have this beautiful piece of art in my office. "Keeper of the Light", created by Colette Samson of Image Glass, was a discovery yesterday while Christmas shopping at the Winding River Art Gallery in Stewiacke - a local hidden gem!