Carol Ann Rowland, MSW, RSW, SEP
Design a Life You Love to Live
Comprehensive Healing
If you have tried talk therapy and didn't get where you wanted to be, I am the therapist you are looking for. Due to COVID, sessions are online or by phone until further notice. Neurofeedback, SSP and Focus sessions can all be accessed at home during COVID. Please see www.WholeMindHealing.ca or email carolannrowland@gmail.com to enquire.
I'd like to help.
I have trained in a variety of cutting edge approaches that are based upon the latest research on the brain and the nervous system. Many of the concerns that typically bring someone into therapy - issues such as anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, anger, addictions, autoimmune disorders and more - have at their root a dysregulated nervous system. This is why when we talk about our problems and obtain insight about them, we don't necessarily find that our symptoms improve. It is only by working with the body, the brain and the nervous system that we are likely to experience true and lasting improvement.
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I also offer Somatic Experiencing - a nervous system based approach to healing and Brainspotting (Phase 1, 2, 3, 4, Addictions, "Hero's Journey", "Brainspotting & Parts Therapy", and "From Freeze to Thaw"). Brainspotting is a simple yet powerful tool using focused gaze upon specific points of the visual field, in order to access healing in the subcortical brain and thus release trauma and other concerns, at a very deep level. Part of my interest in working with the brain, nervous system, and various neurological concerns including trauma, has lead me to recently become trained in Retained Primitive Reflex Integration. I am also currently training in Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Transforming the Experience Based Brain (TEB), and Integral Somatic Psychology (ISP).
Some high tech tools that I have available for use either in office with me, or as rental systems to use at home, are NeurOptimal neurofeedback, and the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) by Stephen Porges, as well as the Focus System from Unyte-iLs. Each of these systems, in different ways, help to promote optimal functioning of the brain, nervous system, and associated bodily systems. Improvements are often noted with concerns such as tinnitus, brain injuries, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, misophonia, chemo brain, learning disabilities, migraines, alzheimers, dementia, sports performance, academic performance, autism spectrum disorders, and more - depending upon the system. Neurofeedback, SSP and Focus are all available either in office, or as rentals for home use. Please see the neurofeedback, SSP and Focus pages for additional information. Unsure which to try? Please email me to discuss your needs and preferences.
Rather than simply learning how to cope better with their symptoms - which is often what happens when talk therapy is used alone - many of my clients now find that they simply don't get as anxious, stressed or depressed, etc... in relation to events that previously would have really triggered them. I find in my own life, I often suddenly realize I have simply forgotten to be anxious or upset, and that I have been applying the calming skills I have learned without even being fully conscious of doing so.
Other approaches I am trained in include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Energy Psychology, and Energy Medicine.
I provide a very comfortable and peaceful environment in my home office, located in Georgetown, Ontario.
Although healing work can definitely include difficult feelings at times, I am someone who has a quirky sense of humour that my clients tend to really enjoy. As a result, sessions with me often include more gentle laughter together than one might typically expect in therapy.
In addition to having over 26 years of experience as a psychotherapist, I also have been through a lot in my own life, so I am also very familiar with what it is like to be a client and the special mix of feelings, hopes and fears that that can include.
Before starting my private practice 16 years ago, I was a therapist for over 10 years at Hamilton Health Sciences' McMaster University Medical Centre, predominantly in the Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence Care Centre.
I am assisted in my home office by my Jasper, my 7 year old beagle who is a St. John's Ambulance therapy dog and Molly, a 2 yer old ragdoll cat. Please advise me if the pets' presence poses any difficulty for you.
Why wait to feel better? Click here to book online now!
Ready to book? Online scheduling is available! See below....
Book Appointment
If we have not worked together previously, or if it has been more than 6 months since I last saw you, please contact me first to discuss my availability and your needs, prior to booking. Due to COVID sessions are online or by phone only.
Neurofeedback
I offer brain training neurofeedback sessions to all ages. DURING THE PANDEMIC NEUROFEEDBACK IS AVAILABLE THROUGH RENTAL SYSTEMS ONLY
Learn MoreClinical Consultations
Clinical consultations for psychotherapists and other practitioners in relation to the Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP).
Learn MoreNeurofeedback
Easy to use, safe and gentle neurofeedback systems available. Sessions for as little as $12 each, in the comfort of your own home, at times that work best for you. Brain training is wonderful for everyone - sessions can be shared among family members. Delivery throughout GTA and surrounding area available.
WHY TRY NEUROFEEDBACK?
Anyone with a brain can benefit from neurofeedback! This is because training your brain with neurofeedback will get you functioning at your best, whatever that best is.
Neurofeedback is used by peak performing athletes, artists, and business people who want to achieve and maintain their edge. Neurofeedback is also used by individuals who feel they are not functioning at their best, including many adults and children with severe impairments, who are struggling with their mood, or who want a drug-free approach to feeling and functioning optimally.
How is it possible that one tool can work for widely different brains and purposes? It’s all to do with brain optimization. The various complaints we all suffer can be considered signs the brain is not functioning at its optimal level. Doing brain training through neurofeedback can change that.
It doesn’t matter if you are looking for changes on a physical, emotional or mental level — you only have one brain and it affects everything in your body. While you may have one reason for using neurofeedback positive changes can show in across all areas of your life.
For example, in my own life, I was motivated to try neurofeedback in order to help with my sleep. My sleep did improve but I also had less anxiety, I felt happier, had more energy, food cravings and emotional eating were completely eliminated, my focus was better, my allergy to dairy became less, my seasonal allergies improved - even my eyesight improved.
Many people who choose to do brain training report life changing results. A number of elite athletes have used neurofeedback to obtain improvement in their physical performance and mental stamina. Sufferers of sleeplessness report improved sleep. Veterans use it stating it helps relieve the extreme challenges they face returning home from a war zone. Mentally clouded individuals, due to injury or life circumstances, tell us how after using neurofeedback they’ve rediscovered clarity to an extent they and their loved ones once believed unattainable. Brain training through neurofeedback has helped improve the lives of children suffering from communication and social challenges, and general difficulties focusing in school. And many challenges stemming from stress commonly fall away when the brain is trained for optimal function.
With neurofeedback, your label or diagnosis - or lack thereof - does not change how we approach brain training. All you will need to do during sessions is to sit in the chair and relax. Yet despite being so easy, the change experienced is comprehensive, and not just in the area that is hoped for. The benefits manifest across many areas of functioning. Best of all, neurofeedback is completely safe and has no side effects.
Rest assured, whatever your situation, you are almost certain to significantly upgrade your quality of life by training your brain through neurofeedback.
Some suggestions for its use are:
Wellness enhancement
Improving mood & happiness
Increasing energy
Improved digestion
Stress reduction
Facilitate return of veterans into home and work life
Academic and job enhancement
Athletic and sports training
Optimizing your intelligence with improved brain function
Preparation for testing: improved focus, attention and retention, reduction of test anxiety
As part of an anti-aging program
Enhancing creativity and awareness
Personal and spiritual development in individual and group settings
Enriching partner, family and work relationships
Group training in retreat settings
Neurofeedback Rental System Pricing
Up to 10 sessions over 4 weeks for $650
Up to 20 sessions over 4 weeks for $800
Up to 50 sessions over 4 weeks for $1000
Unlimited sessions over 4 weeks for $1200
Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP)
Since May 2019, I have offered SSP to over 200 people, from ages 2 - 70 years old, from all over the world. I specialize in offering SSP to people dealing with complex situations, and offer consultation to other SSP practitioners to help them learn how to deliver SSP to allow for best possible results.
Click here to watch more videos about SSP
Click here to read an article written with UK Neuro-Developmental Therapy expert Emma Ashfield, about the range of responses that people have with SSP
What is the Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP)?
Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, the SSP is a five-day auditory intervention designed to reduce stress and auditory sensitivity while enhancing social engagement and resilience. Based on Dr. Porges’ Polyvagal Theory, by calming the physiological and emotional state, the door is opened for improved communication and more successful therapy.
The SSP is a research-based therapy showing signicant results in the following areas:
Social and emotional difficulties
Auditory sensitivities
Anxiety and trauma related challenges
Inattention
Stressors that impact social engagement
A more comprehensive of list of potential improvements commonly noted by both clients and SSP practitioners are:
POTENTIAL AREAS OF IMPROVEMENT
(potentially arising 2-7 weeks after completion of SSP Core)
Reduced anxiety, especially social anxiety
Improved assertiveness and self protectiveness
Decreased sensitivity to sounds
Misophonia
Increased displays of affection-seeking affection-expressive contact
Increased facial flexibility and expressiveness
Increased body flexibility
Reduced chronic pain
Change in throat tension/sound of voice
Improved eye contact
Reduced repetitive motions and restlessness
Increased feelings of calmness
Hearing changes/reductions in sensory hypersensitivities
Finding transitions much easier
Speech and language improvements
Reduced sensitivity to food tastes and textures/less "picky eating"
Improved reciprocal communication
Thoughts and behavior have more purposeful flow
Improved comprehension
Easier to follow directions
Improved processing speed
Improved organization
Improved dexterity
More active participant in classroom, able to tolerate and overcome challenges
Improved visual focus/tracking
More able to put words to feeling
Able to remain regulated during face to face communication
Improved self-awareness (particularly of emotions),
Improved communication about self (again particularly about emotions),
Decreased panic, fears and phobias
Improved cardiac function
Improvement in breathing patterns.
Able to tolerate busy environments
Increased sense of humor
Improved ability to read social cues
Less easily stressed
Improved digestion
Hormonal shifts for women
Emotional and physiological state are critical to how we approach the task at hand. So when a client has better state control, not only can they be more socially engaged, they are more open to therapy. Better state regulation improves therapeutic outcomes.
This non- invasive intervention involves listening to music that has been processed specifically to retune the nervous system (regulating state) to introduce a sense of safety and the ability to socially engage. This allows the client to better interpret not only human speech but, importantly, the emotional meaning of language. Once interpersonal interactions improve, spontaneous social behaviors and an enhanced ability to learn, self-regulate and engage are often seen.
The SSP system is available to professionals only. For ways you can use the SSP at home, please email carolannrowland@gmail.com.
NEW!! In addition to the original SSP (now called SSP Core) we now have two new SSP pathways:
SSP Connect offers a slower way to approach SSP and allows time to adjust and acclimate to the listening and to prepare for SSP Core.
SSP Connect is an invitation or warm up to the SSP for those who would benefit from a slower and gentler introduction. It can help develop familiarity with the music and listening process, thereby providing a sense of comfort and safety in experiencing the music, and sets up a sense of expectancy for what is to come.
SSP Balance offers an integrating experience and the opportunity to extend the state-regulating benefits beyond the five hours of SSP Core.
SSP Balance is a pathway that can be used to extend and integrate the gains of the SSP and potentially act as a state stabilizer. It can also be used for further stabilization and integration before beginning an SSP Core Booster.
SSP Balance can be used by many on an ongoing basis to calm and ground.
Read blog entries between October - December 2019 about my 15 year old dog's response to SSP!
How does it work?
The SSP uses the auditory system as a portal to the vagus complex, which controls our physiological state. Once physiological state is regulated, we can accelerate or enhance subsequent therapy.
Based on Dr. Porges’ Polyvagal Theory, the program is derived from nearly four decades of research on the relationship between the autonomic nervous system and social-emotional processes. It is designed to stimulate nervous system regulation by exercising and systematically challenging the auditory system with specically processed music.
The music trains the auditory pathways by focusing on the frequency envelope of human speech. As the client learns to process these speech-related frequencies, they improve the functioning of two cranial nerves that are important for promoting overall social behavior. Cranial Nerve VII (Facial Nerve) helps clients focus on human voice and tune out irrelevant frequencies. Cranial Nerve X (Vagus Nerve) enables self-soothing and autonomic regulation.
Are you a psychotherapist or other practitioner who offers SSP and is looking for clinical advice? Click here...
Focus System
NEW in 2020: Focus, from the same company as SSP. So far I am hearing from Focus clients that they are noticing things like feeling happier, more confident, improved balance and coordination and, of course - vastly improved ability to focus.
Focus System programs provide simultaneous multisensory input to help develop new and reinforce existing pathways governing organization of the body and brain function. Therapeutic music is delivered via air and bone conduction headphones, providing auditory input to the brain and sensory input to the body. Movement activities, customizable for all levels, provide additional sensory and motor input for body organization. Finally, cognitive activities, added later, challenge the brain to process multiple pieces of simultaneous information, which is reflective of demands required of the brain in our day-to-day world.
Especially in younger people and those recovering from injury, this staged approach develops a foundation that may never have been fully developed or was interrupted due to an event. With appropriate stimulation, the brain’s ability to successfully process and retain information leads to better academic outcomes. In addition, there is an increased ability to control impulses, self-regulate behavior and engage appropriately with others.
Teens and adults also see improvement in these areas, as well as improvement in reading comprehension, concentration, memory and performance at work. Most report less stress and anxiety and a happier disposition.
Given that it is recommended that the Focus System be used 3-5 hours per week, it is most conveniently and cost effectively used at home, with guidance and support from a practitioner who supervises remotely.
Click here to read more about research on the Focus System
Click here to read case studies
THE FOCUS SYSTEM INCLUDES:
10-hour Calming Program
60-hour Sensory & Motor Program
40-hour Concentration & Attention Program
40-hour Reading & Auditory Processing Program
Two 24-hour Optimal Performance Programs
A Playbook and Integration Kit for movement activities
The process begins with a brief written assessment to determine which of the included Focus programs may be relevant for you or your child.
PLEASE NOTE: Use of the Focus System is NOT recommended for those with seizure disorders, or bipolar depression.
Modalities
Somatic Experiencing (SE) is an approach for working with and healing trauma, created by the psychologist Dr. Peter Levine, PhD. Dr. Levine recognized that, although animals in the wild frequently go through life threatening attacks, they somehow do not develop PTSD.
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Sessions as low as $12 each! Neurofeedback is a form of brain training that is typically wonderful for: Anxiety, trauma, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, wellness, sports performance, academic performance, sleep concerns, brain injury, chemobrain, concussion recovery, increased energy, enhanced feelings of wellbeing, and more.
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I am very excited to be offering SSP in my practice - a 5 hour auditory intevention. Most of my clients who have tried SSP are experiencing - after just a few short weeks - life changing results, that normally would take decades to produce.
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"Brainspotting is based on the profound attunement of the therapist with the patient, finding a somatic cue and extinguishing it by down-regulating the amygdala. It isn’t just PNS (Parasympathetic Nervous System) activation that is facilitated, it is homeostasis." -- Robert Scaer, MD, “The Trauma Spectrum"
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Transforming the Experience-Based Brain (TEB) is a "Trauma Informed" modality. The modality is based on the idea that when there are ruptures during early platform development, they continue to disrupt a person's life. TEB incorporates presence, regulation and relationship to repair these ruptures.
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Integrating retained primitive reflexes can be life changing for both kids and adults. This work is especially relevant for those with anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, trauma, or any neurological disorders including ASD, ADD/ADHD, auditory or sensory processing disorders, and more. Best of all, the work is fairly simple and can mostly be done on your own, at home, spending a few minutes per day doing simple exercises, over a 30 day period.
Read MoreOur Team
Carol Ann Rowland, MSW, RSW, SEP
Psychotherapist
With over 26 years of experience as a psychotherapist, Carol Ann absolutely loves her work, is extremely passionate about finding the best, most effective tools for her clients, and finds that bringing more joy to her clients' lives, brings more joy to hers.
Jasper
Office Jester & Therapy Dog
Jasper is a 7 year old St. John's Ambulance Therapy Dog. In addition to his work at Halton Therapy & Neurofeedback, Jasper has friends throughout Georgetown, volunteering with Carol Ann to visit nursing homes, schools, addiction programs, community events, and more. While Jasper is sometimes felt to not necessarily be the smartest boy, he is almost universally agreed upon as being one of the silliest and sweetest boys. Jasper too has had a remarkable response to SSP - after two rounds of SSP he is no longer afraid of fireworks, thunderstorms or other loud noises! You can read about this on my blog. :)
Molly
Office Manager & Therapy Cat
Molly is a two year old Ragdoll cat. Ragdolls are a less allergenic breed. While Molly's actual role is truly one of therapy cat, being a cat, she believes she is the one in charge and, in some respects, she is not wrong. During sessions, Molly loves to either supportively sleep on her climber, or to snuggle with those clients who welcome her sitting with them. Many clients find that Molly makes a most excellent fidget toy. Even people who usually don't like cats, typically love Molly who has many dog-like traits, including that she loves to have her tummy rubbed. :)
Amy
Intern
Amy is our newest intern. She is a mini Australian Labradoodle puppy. Being very early in her training, she is still learning. She is currently working on recognizing that snuggles and the occasional doggy kiss are likely to have a greater therapeutic effect than nibbling on fingers, noses and earlobes. However, she is progressing rapidly. ❤️
Maggie
Office Mascott
Sadly, Maggie, our much beloved office mascot passed away recently at 15 1/2 years old. While she is no longer with us, it is well worth checking out my blog to read about the amazing transformation she experienced with SSP - she had always had anxious-aggressive barking which stopped completely after one round of SSP, as well as her having an astonishing reduction of chronic pain from arthritis. Clients who had been coming for a while have been amazed at the changes in her, as has all of her family! More people decided to do SSP after watching her change over time, than I could possibly have anticipated. :)
Pricing
Psychotherapy
$180 for a one hour session
SSP
The SSP system rental fee is $480 to have access to the digital app for up to 3 months. Included in this fee is ongoing support and guidance by myself, via email. If a longer time period is desired or needed - whether to take more time in doing SSP Core (the main SSP protocol, or to access SSP Balance on an ongoing basis - there is an additional $40 per month fee.
Have more than one person who wants to do SSP? Please discuss this with me first as there are pros cons to doing more than one person in the home at a time. There is an additional $120 fee per additional family member, in the same home.
Most younger children are able to do the entire SSP protocol at home.
For most teens and adults the SSP it is important to begin SSP with one supervised session with myself (online during covid). The usual $180 per hour rate applies to this session. Therefore for most teens an adults, the SSP fee will be $660 and for most children it will be $480.
For those who have extended health plans that cover therapy with a social worker the majority the fee is likely to be covered, within the limits and restrictions of your plan. Please contact me for details.
SSP is not considered the "end" of treatment but rather than beginning as, by shifting physiology, it boosts the effectiveness and efficiency of all other approaches that someone accesses. It is best followed by other approaches relevant for the particular individual, such as neurofeedack, iLs Focus, occupational therapy, psychotherapy, etc...
Focus System Rental
Total Focus system rental includes the whole Total Focus package: iPod, amplifier, connector cable, bone-conducting headphones, waist pack, balance board, 2 bean bags, 1 racket ball, 1 tethered tennis ball, headband, Playbook, manual and carry bag.
Renting a Focus System for home use is $400 per month. This fee includes weekly guidance from myself throughout the process, via email. A portion of your rental fee may be covered under your extended health plan. Please contact me for details.
It is also possible to purchase your own Focus System, please enquire for details.
Neurofeedback
In office neurofeedback sessions, when available:
$135 per session (45 mins, 32 mins of which is neurofeedback) - Currently I do not have space for new Neurofeedback clients for in office sessions - I do have rental systems for home use, however.
Neurofeedback Rental Units Available!
Rent a neurofeedback tablet and use it in the comfort of your own home, for your family and friends. Many clients like to rent because it’s the cheapest way to have a neurofeedback session. If you have a family, renting is convenient - no need to get everybody into the car, just run sessions at home. For clients who live out of town, renting might be the only option. Feel free to share your sessions with friends and family, if desired. Anyone can benefit from brain training. Fastest change is often seen when doing sessions more frequently - it can be beneficial to do up to two brain training sessions per day.
Neurofeedback Rental Packages
Feel free to share your sessions with friends and family!
Up to 10 sessions, over 4 weeks.......$650 ($65 per session)
Up to 20 sessions, over 4 weeks......$800 ($40 per session)
Up to 50 sessions, over 4 weeks......$1000 ($20 per session)
Unlimited sessions, over 4 weeks.....$1200
Neurofeedback rental units are available on a first come, first served basis.
Please note that, while in office neurofeedback sessions are covered under extended health plans that cover social worker services, neurofeedback rental systems are NOT covered by extended health plans.
Neurofeedback units are also available for purchase. Should you choose to purchase your own NEW unit after renting one from me, I will rebate up to $100 of your rental fee. Please enquire for details prior to purchasing.
Neurofeedback & Psychotherapy combination sessions are available
$270 for 90 mins (45 mins of neurofeedback + 45 mins of psychotherapy)
$360 for 2 hours (45 mins of neurofeedback + 75 mins of psychotherapy)
Ready to start? Click here to book online now!
Blog
An update on Amy and Jasper's latest response to SSP
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Read how Amy, a 5 month old puppy with anxious aggressive barking and sound sensitivity, is responding to her first round of SSP.
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Please read this wonderfully informative article by Emma Ashfield. Emma is a highly regarded SSP practitioner in the UK who specializes in neuro-developmental therapy, offering SSP, primitive reflex integration, and iLs Focus
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Watch as I am being interviewed by the parent of a little boy on the spectrum that I did SSP with. Related topics covered are using SSP with those with trauma, and neurofeedback and the similarities and differences between them.
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Jasper, my rescue dog's response to a second round of SSP. He is no longer afraid of fireworks, thunderstorms, or even loud crashing and banging right at his own home.
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A very simple energy healing approach that anyone can use, anywhere and at any time, to help emotional distress to settle.
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Carol Ann Rowland, MSW, RSW, SEP describes how to use the Somatic Experiencing skill of physically orienting to help to settle feelings of stress, anxiety and turmoil
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Some simple ideas from Somatic Experiencing, for how you can settle your nervous system during this time of universal stress and distress.
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My own journey over the course of three rounds of SSP
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Jasper - a 5 year old rescue dog - and his response to the Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP), a 5 hour auditory intervention
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In addition to her previously noted gains, five weeks post SSP, Maggie is no longer showing territorial behaviours nor aggression towards other dogs
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A fantastic explanation of how NeurOptimal works and what kinds of improvements users are likely to experience.
Read MoreNeurofeedback Videos
I can't wait for you to discover which things improve for you with brain training.
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