Specialist Mental Health Counselling for Adults with Spinal Cord Injuries
Need support after a spinal cord injury?
Disability Plus is a leading provider of specialised spinal cord injury counselling.
Our team includes the only tetraplegia psychologist in Europe, ensuring you receive expert care from therapists who truly understand your experience.
We offer a range of therapies to help you cope with emotional challenges, adjust to life changes, and build a fulfilling future.
Learn more about our spinal cord injury counselling services and take the first step towards recovery.
- Only Tetraplegic Psychologist in Europe
- Complete and Incomplete Counsellors with an SCI
- Self-Paid for Immediate Start
- Free Funding Applications (Most of England & Wales)
Enquiries
Self-Referral
Physical Challenges and Spinal Cord Injury
Living with an SCI often involves navigating physical changes such as limited mobility, chronic pain, and bladder or bowel dysfunction.
Our specialised counsellors understand these challenges and can help you develop coping strategies, manage pain, and adjust to your new physical reality.
Addressing Social and Practical Challenges After SCI
Our counsellors provide invaluable support in navigating the social and practical challenges that can arise after a spinal cord injury. We can help you develop strategies to combat social isolation, build connections, and explore new activities.
We offer a safe space to address stigma and discrimination and develop self-advocacy skills. Our services also assist with navigating relationship changes, including communication and intimacy concerns.
We can help you overcome employment challenges, such as job searching and disclosing your disability, and manage financial concerns by exploring resources and budgeting strategies.
Additionally, we can help you identify accessibility solutions and advocate for your transportation, housing, and community access rights.
Our goal is to empower you to live a fulfilling and independent life after your injury, by working collaboratively with you to identify your needs, develop coping strategies, and connect you with valuable resources and support networks.
Free Funding & Self-Pay Options
Free Funding
We understand the financial challenges of living with a disability.
Disability Plus offers free funding application assistance for spinal cord injury counselling services in most of England and Wales.
Click the “Free Funding” tab below to check your eligibility.
Self-Paying
With our self-pay option, you can begin your counselling journey almost immediately.
There are no waiting lists or GP reports.
Professional Organisations
We proudly collaborate with:
Employment Support Companies
- Solicitors
- GPs
- Mental Health Providers
- Audiologists
- Schools & Universities
- Charities
And many more Professionals & Organisations to ensure Comprehensive Care for our Clients.
Free Funding Criteria
Are you an adult (18+) living with a spinal cord injury and struggling to find the support you need?
We understand that navigating the healthcare system can be challenging, especially if NHS local mental health services have turned you away as too complex.
We’ll work with you to determine eligibility and then make a funding application for you, relieving your pressure.
While funding approval varies by region, we’ll explore every avenue and connect you with the most suitable resources if your NHS region does not support us.
Self-Paid Session Fees
We believe everyone should have access to counselling. That’s why we offer reduced rates to the public, with sessions starting at just £50 for 50 minutes.
Our Fees:
- Initial Session: £50
- Following Sessions: £180 for every three sessions after that.
Extended Sessions:
For clients using assistive communication devices, we offer longer sessions (70 minutes) for £90 per session or £220 for a package of 3.
Payment Plans Available:
We understand that self-paying for spinal cord injury counselling can be challenging.
If you need assistance, please get in touch with us to discuss payment plan options.
Professional Referrals
DisabilityPlus welcomes referrals from professional organisations that encounter individuals with an SCI who need specialist spinal cord injury counselling.
We value collaborative relationships with healthcare providers, social workers, case managers, and other professionals dedicated to improving the well-being of people with disabilities.
Referring a client is simple. You can contact us directly by phone or email to discuss the client’s needs and ensure a smooth transition to our services.
We will work closely with you to gather relevant information, obtain necessary consent, and coordinate care effectively.
Our team is committed to providing timely and responsive communication throughout the referral process, ensuring a seamless experience for the referring organisation and the individual seeking support.
Enquiries
Self-Referral
Grief/Loss?
Grief is a natural and complex response to loss, and for individuals with spinal cord injuries, this grief can be particularly profound.
The injury represents not only a physical loss but also a loss of function, independence, and the life one knew before.
This can trigger a range of intense emotions, including sadness, anger, denial, and yearning.
The grieving process for individuals with spinal cord injuries is unique and personal.
It can be influenced by factors such as the cause of the injury, the level of injury, the individual’s support system, and their coping mechanisms.
Grief may manifest in different ways, including physical symptoms like fatigue and sleep disturbances, emotional changes like mood swings and irritability, and cognitive difficulties like concentration problems and memory loss.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals to navigate their grief journey.
Therapists can help individuals understand and process their emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and find meaning and acceptance in their new reality.
They can also support managing changes in body image, relationships, and independence.
They can also assist in addressing any unresolved trauma related to the injury and facilitate the process of rebuilding a fulfilling life after injury.
Adjustment Disorder?
Adjustment disorder is a common reaction to stressful life events, and for individuals with spinal cord injuries, the significant changes associated with the injury can trigger this condition.
Adjusting to a new physical reality, coping with emotional challenges, and navigating social and practical adjustments can feel overwhelming, leading to symptoms like anxiety, depression, and difficulty dealing with daily life.
Adjustment disorder after a spinal cord injury can manifest in various ways. Individuals may experience low mood, irritability, withdrawal from social activities, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating.
They may also struggle with independence, mobility, and body image changes.
These symptoms can significantly impact their quality of life and interfere with their ability to rehabilitate and adapt to their new circumstances.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides essential support for individuals experiencing adjustment disorder.
Therapists can help individuals understand and process their emotions, develop coping strategies for managing stress and anxiety, and build resilience for navigating the challenges of spinal cord injury.
They can also help connect with support networks and resources to facilitate a smoother adjustment process.
By addressing adjustment disorder, spinal cord injury counselling helps individuals regain a sense of control, improve their emotional well-being, and successfully adapt to life after injury.
Trauma?
Trauma is a common experience for individuals with spinal cord injuries, as the event leading to the injury can be physically and emotionally shocking.
This can include accidents, falls, sports injuries, or medical conditions resulting in spinal cord damage.
Such events can leave a lasting impact on a person’s mental and emotional well-being, leading to symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and avoidance.
The experience of trauma can vary significantly from person to person.
Factors such as the nature of the event, the individual’s coping mechanisms, and their support system can influence the severity and duration of traumatic symptoms.
It’s essential to recognise that trauma can manifest in different ways, including physical symptoms like hypervigilance and sleep disturbances, emotional changes like fear and anger, and cognitive difficulties like concentration problems and intrusive thoughts.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a safe and supportive space for individuals to address trauma related to their injury.
Trauma-informed therapists can help individuals process their experiences, develop coping strategies for managing triggers and flashbacks, and work through feelings of fear, guilt, or shame.
By addressing trauma, spinal cord injury counselling helps individuals heal from the past, reduce distress, and move forward with their lives.
Ableism?
Ableism, or discrimination against people with disabilities, can significantly affect the mental health of those with spinal cord injuries.
Spinal cord injury counselling is crucial in helping individuals navigate these challenges.
Ableism can appear in many forms, creating barriers in various areas of life.
For example, individuals with spinal cord injuries may face discrimination in employment, inadequate support in education, and difficulty accessing healthcare or suitable housing.
They may also encounter inaccessible environments and negative attitudes that impact their daily lives.
These experiences can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a safe space to process these emotions and develop coping mechanisms.
It helps individuals build self-advocacy skills, challenge systemic issues, and foster resilience. It can also support managing changes in body image, relationships, and independence.
By addressing the impact of ableism, spinal cord injury counselling empowers individuals to navigate their challenges and live fulfilling lives.
New Spinal Cord Injury?
Adjusting to life with a new spinal cord injury can be overwhelming.
Spinal cord injury counselling is essential for navigating this challenging transition.
A new spinal cord injury brings about sudden and significant changes, impacting physical abilities, independence, and daily routines.
Individuals may experience a range of emotions, including shock, grief, anger, and anxiety.
These emotional challenges can be compounded by physical pain, medical complications, and the need to adapt to new ways of doing things.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a safe and supportive space to process these emotions and develop coping strategies.
It helps individuals adjust to their new reality, build resilience, and develop a positive outlook.
It can also offer guidance on managing practical challenges, such as navigating healthcare systems and accessing support services.
By addressing the emotional and practical challenges of a new spinal cord injury, spinal cord injury counselling empowers individuals to regain a sense of control and move forward with their lives.
Perceptions?
The way people perceive spinal cord injuries can significantly impact the lives of individuals with these injuries.
Misconceptions and lack of understanding can create barriers to accessing appropriate social services and employment opportunities and navigating education and healthcare.
These misperceptions can lead to discrimination, inadequate support, and lowered expectations, which can impact self-esteem, financial stability, and overall well-being.
Social isolation and stigma can also arise from these negative perceptions, hindering social inclusion and contributing to mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a crucial space for individuals to address the emotional and psychological impact of these experiences.
It helps individuals develop coping mechanisms, build resilience, and advocate for their needs. It can also support managing changes in body image, relationships, and independence.
By challenging societal perceptions and fostering understanding, spinal cord injury counselling empowers individuals to navigate challenges and live fulfilling lives.
Health?
Health anxiety is a common experience for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
Adapting to the injury, managing physical changes, and navigating rehabilitation can trigger worries about future health, complications, and overall well-being.
Concerns about chronic pain, secondary health conditions (such as pressure sores or urinary tract infections), and potential medical issues can contribute to heightened anxiety.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides specialised support in addressing these anxieties.
Therapists help individuals develop coping strategies, navigate challenges in accessing healthcare, and build resilience for managing uncertainties.
They can also support understanding the injury, managing pain, and adjusting to changes in physical abilities.
By addressing health anxiety, spinal cord injury counselling empowers individuals to focus on their recovery and improve their quality of life.
Loss of Autonomy
Loss of autonomy is a significant concern for many individuals with spinal cord injuries, impacting their mental health and overall well-being.
This loss can stem from physical limitations, challenges with mobility, and societal barriers restricting independence.
Spinal cord injury counselling plays a crucial role in helping individuals cope with this loss and reclaim a sense of control over their lives.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a supportive space to address the emotional impact of dependence on others for daily tasks, challenges in decision-making, and limitations in social or professional participation.
It can also help individuals process feelings of grief, frustration, and loss associated with changes in their abilities.
Therapists can help individuals develop coping strategies, enhance self-advocacy skills, and explore new avenues for independence.
They can also support adapting to new ways of doing things, accessing assistive technology, and advocating for accessibility.
By addressing the loss of autonomy, spinal cord injury counselling empowers individuals to navigate their challenges, build resilience, and live fulfilling lives.
Financial Strain
Financial strain is a significant concern for many individuals with spinal cord injuries, impacting their mental health and overall well-being.
The costs associated with hospitalisation, rehabilitation, assistive devices, home modifications, and ongoing medical care can be substantial, leading to chronic stress and anxiety.
Loss of income due to changes in employment can further exacerbate these financial challenges.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides valuable support in navigating these financial challenges.
Therapists can offer strategies for managing financial stress, coping with the emotional impact of unexpected expenses, and advocating for financial assistance or affordable care.
They can also provide support in exploring vocational rehabilitation options and adjusting to changes in employment.
By addressing financial concerns, spinal cord injury counselling helps individuals focus on their recovery, reduce stress, and improve their quality of life.
Anxiety?
Anxiety is a common experience for many individuals with spinal cord injuries.
The challenges of adapting to the injury, navigating rehabilitation, and managing physical and emotional changes can contribute to heightened anxiety levels.
Spinal cord injury counselling is crucial in helping individuals cope with these anxieties and improve their overall well-being.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a safe and supportive space to address anxieties related to various aspects of life after injury.
This can include concerns about body image, social interactions, employment, finances, accessing healthcare, and managing changes in mobility and independence.
Therapists can help individuals develop coping strategies, build resilience, and improve self-advocacy skills.
They can also help manage pain, adjust to assistive devices, and navigate relationships.
By addressing anxiety, spinal cord injury counselling empowers individuals to focus on their recovery, adjust to their new reality, and live fulfilling lives.
Depression?
Depression is a significant concern for many individuals with spinal cord injuries.
Adapting to life after a spinal cord injury involves navigating numerous challenges, both physical and emotional, which can contribute to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in life.
These challenges may include coping with chronic pain, adjusting to changes in mobility and independence, facing changes in body image, and navigating social and professional adjustments.
Several factors can increase the risk of depression in the context of spinal cord injury.
These include difficulties with mobility, challenges in accessing appropriate healthcare and support services, financial strain, and experiences of social isolation or stigma.
The emotional impact of spinal cord injury, including grief, anxiety, and trauma, can also contribute to depression.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a safe and supportive space to address depression and its underlying causes.
Therapists help individuals process their emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience.
They can also assist in connecting with resources, improving self-esteem, and fostering social connections.
By addressing depression, spinal cord injury counselling empowers individuals to improve their mental health and overall well-being.
Relationships?
Spinal cord injury can significantly impact relationships, affecting the individual with the injury and their loved ones.
Adjusting to life after a spinal cord injury often involves navigating changes in body image, physical abilities, and emotional well-being, which can influence dynamics within relationships.
Partners, family members, and friends may experience a range of emotions, including worry, sadness, and uncertainty, as they adapt to these changes alongside the individual.
Communication plays a crucial role in navigating relationships after a spinal cord injury.
Open and honest conversations about needs, concerns, and expectations can help maintain healthy connections and foster mutual understanding.
Intimacy can also be affected by spinal cord injury, and addressing changes in physical intimacy and emotional connection is essential for maintaining strong and fulfilling relationships.
Spinal cord injury counselling can provide valuable support for individuals and their loved ones in navigating relationship challenges.
Therapists can help individuals communicate effectively, address intimacy concerns, and strengthen bonds with their partners, family, and friends.
They can also offer guidance on navigating social situations, building new relationships, and fostering a supportive network.
Spinal cord injury counselling addresses relationship concerns, helps individuals maintain strong connections, and builds fulfilling relationships after injury.
Carers?
Caring for a loved one with a spinal cord injury can be an enriching experience, but it also comes with unique challenges that can impact a carer’s well-being.
Carers often face emotional strain as they witness their loved ones navigate the physical and emotional challenges of the injury.
The physical demands of assisting with daily tasks and medical appointments can lead to exhaustion, while caregiving responsibilities may limit social interaction and contribute to feelings of isolation.
Financial concerns and changes in relationship dynamics can add further complexity to the carer’s experience.
Spinal cord injury counselling offers valuable support to carers facing these challenges.
It provides a safe and supportive space to process emotions such as worry, sadness, and even secondary trauma.
Therapists can offer practical guidance on caregiving techniques, navigating resources, and managing the daily demands of caring for someone with a spinal cord injury.
They can also offer advice on understanding the injury, managing complications, and accessing appropriate support services.
They can also connect carers with respite care options, allowing for essential breaks and self-care.
Furthermore, spinal cord injury counselling can help carers navigate relationship changes and maintain healthy communication with their loved ones.
Support groups provide opportunities to connect with others facing similar challenges, fostering a sense of community and shared understanding.
Spinal cord injury counselling addresses the unique needs of carers, helping them maintain their well-being, strengthen their relationships, and provide the best possible support to their loved ones.
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Specialist Mental Health Counselling for Adults with Spinal Cord Injuries
Have you been impacted by a Spinal Cord Injury?
Adjusting to life with a spinal cord injury can be overwhelming. DisabilityPlus offers specialised spinal cord injury mental health counselling services tailored to the unique needs of individuals with SCI. Our team of experienced professionals provides compassionate support to help you cope with emotional challenges, build resilience, and achieve a fulfilling life.
"Client with a Spinal Cord Injury, Therapist with an SCI"
Who else would truly understand your life experiences & therefore be able to truly support you
Supporting all Types of Spinal Cord Injury
Complete and Incomplete SCI under classifications ASIA A, B, C, D and E
Specialist Counselling
- Only Tetraplegic Psychologist in Europe
- Our Counsellors & Psycotherapists have an SCI
- Self-Paid for Immediate Start
- Free Funding Applications (Most of England & Wales)
Ask us a Question
What Clients Say about us
Counselling Fees
Self-Refer Today
Organisations Referral
Feeling Overwhelmed After a Spinal Cord Injury? You're Not Alone.
It’s okay not to be OK. A spinal cord injury can turn your world upside down, leaving you with a mix of emotions like sadness, worry, or even anger. That’s completely normal.
At Disability Plus, we get it. Our spinal cord injury counsellors, psychotherapists, and psychologists have all been through it themselves, so we understand the challenges you’re facing.
Finding the Right Spinal Cord Injury Counselling for You
We offer a safe and supportive space to discuss your feelings and find ways to cope with life’s changes.
Our spinal cord injury counselling services are tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re struggling with:
Adjusting to your new normal: We’ll help you navigate the ups and downs of adapting to life after injury, including finding new ways to do things and rediscovering your strengths.
Feeling down or anxious? We’ll share practical strategies for managing those overwhelming feelings and finding more peace and joy in your day-to-day life.
Dealing with difficult memories: If you’re experiencing flashbacks or nightmares, our spinal cord injury counselling can help you process those experiences and find healing.
Coping with pain: We can help you develop tools to manage chronic pain so it doesn’t take over your life.
Navigating relationships: We can offer support in communicating with loved ones and building strong connections.
Feeling good about yourself: We’ll help you rediscover your confidence and embrace your inner strength.
Grieving what’s been lost: We’ll provide a compassionate space to process your grief and find ways to move forward.
Session Fees/Pricing
We believe everyone should have access to counselling. That’s why we offer reduced rates to the public, with sessions starting at just £50 for 50 minutes.
Our Fees:
Initial Session: £50
Following Sessions: £180 for every three sessions after that.
Extended Sessions:
For clients using assistive communication devices, we offer longer sessions (70 minutes) for £90 per session or £220 for a package of 3.
Payment Plans Available:
We understand that self-paying for therapy can be challenging.
If you need assistance, please contact us to discuss payment plan options.
Free Funding
We understand the financial challenges of living with a SCI.
Disability Plus offers free funding application assistance for spinal cord injury counselling services in most of England and Wales.
See our criteria below to check your eligibility.
Criteria
Are you an adult (18+) living with an SCI residing in England or Wales and struggling to find the support you need?
We understand that navigating the healthcare system can be challenging, especially if NHS local mental health services have turned you away as too complex.
We’ll work with you to determine eligibility and then make a funding application for you, relieving your pressure.
While funding approval varies by region, we’ll explore every avenue and connect you with the most suitable resources if your NHS region does not support us.
Professional Referrals
We proudly collaborate with:
- Employment Support Companies
- Solicitors
- GPs
- Mental Health Providers
- Rehabilitation Centres
- Schools & Universities
- Charities
And many more Professionals & Organisations to ensure Comprehensive Care for our Clients.
Self-Refer
Self-Refer
Referrals
What Our Clients Say
Hear from individuals who have benefited from our spinal cord injury counselling services.
“Before I started counseling with Kevin, I was feeling lost and hopeless. He helped me to see that I could still have a happy and meaningful life after my injury. I’m so grateful for his support.”
“Jill has been a lifesaver for me. She’s helped me to deal with my anxiety and depression, and I’m now feeling much more positive about the future.”
“I was hesitant to seek counselling at first, but I’m so glad I did. My counselor has helped me to improve my relationships and build a stronger support system.”
“I’ve learned so much about myself and how to cope with my injury through counseling. I’m now living a more independent and fulfilling life.”
“As someone with a spinal cord injury, it was crucial for me to find a counsellor who truly understood my situation. With DisabilityPlus, I found that and more. My counsellor has helped me to see my injury not as an end, but as a new beginning.”
“My son was devastated after his accident. He wouldn’t talk to anyone and just shut down completely. Counselling with Jill has made a world of difference. He’s finally opening up, and I can see the spark returning to his eyes. Thank you, Disability Plus.”
“Kevin helped me realise that I wasn’t alone. He taught me practical coping strategies for dealing with anxiety and adjusting to my new life with a wheelchair. I’m now able to manage my emotions and focus on my rehabilitation.”
Our Posts
Grief/Loss?
Grief is a natural and complex response to loss, and for individuals with spinal cord injuries, this grief can be particularly profound.
The injury represents not only a physical loss but also a loss of function, independence, and the life one knew before.
This can trigger a range of intense emotions, including sadness, anger, denial, and yearning.
The grieving process for individuals with spinal cord injuries is unique and personal.
It can be influenced by factors such as the cause of the injury, the level of injury, the individual’s support system, and their coping mechanisms.
Grief may manifest in different ways, including physical symptoms like fatigue and sleep disturbances, emotional changes like mood swings and irritability, and cognitive difficulties like concentration problems and memory loss.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals to navigate their grief journey.
Therapists can help individuals understand and process their emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and find meaning and acceptance in their new reality.
They can also support managing changes in body image, relationships, and independence.
They can also assist in addressing any unresolved trauma related to the injury and facilitate the process of rebuilding a fulfilling life after injury.
Adjustment Disorder?
Adjustment disorder is a common reaction to stressful life events, and for individuals with spinal cord injuries, the significant changes associated with the injury can trigger this condition.
Adjusting to a new physical reality, coping with emotional challenges, and navigating social and practical adjustments can feel overwhelming, leading to symptoms like anxiety, depression, and difficulty dealing with daily life.
Adjustment disorder after a spinal cord injury can manifest in various ways. Individuals may experience low mood, irritability, withdrawal from social activities, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating.
They may also struggle with independence, mobility, and body image changes.
These symptoms can significantly impact their quality of life and interfere with their ability to rehabilitate and adapt to their new circumstances.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides essential support for individuals experiencing adjustment disorder.
Therapists can help individuals understand and process their emotions, develop coping strategies for managing stress and anxiety, and build resilience for navigating the challenges of spinal cord injury.
They can also help connect with support networks and resources to facilitate a smoother adjustment process.
By addressing adjustment disorder, spinal cord injury counselling helps individuals regain a sense of control, improve their emotional well-being, and successfully adapt to life after injury.
Spinal Cord Injury & Mental Health?
Ableism?
Ableism, or discrimination against people with disabilities, can significantly affect the mental health of those with spinal cord injuries.
Spinal cord injury counselling is crucial in helping individuals navigate these challenges.
Ableism can appear in many forms, creating barriers in various areas of life.
For example, individuals with spinal cord injuries may face discrimination in employment, inadequate support in education, and difficulty accessing healthcare or suitable housing.
They may also encounter inaccessible environments and negative attitudes that impact their daily lives.
These experiences can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a safe space to process these emotions and develop coping mechanisms.
It helps individuals build self-advocacy skills, challenge systemic issues, and foster resilience. It can also support managing changes in body image, relationships, and independence.
By addressing the impact of ableism, spinal cord injury counselling empowers individuals to navigate their challenges and live fulfilling lives.
New Spinal Cord Injury?
Adjusting to life with a new spinal cord injury can be overwhelming.
Spinal cord injury counselling is essential for navigating this challenging transition.
A new spinal cord injury brings about sudden and significant changes, impacting physical abilities, independence, and daily routines.
Individuals may experience a range of emotions, including shock, grief, anger, and anxiety.
These emotional challenges can be compounded by physical pain, medical complications, and the need to adapt to new ways of doing things.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a safe and supportive space to process these emotions and develop coping strategies.
It helps individuals adjust to their new reality, build resilience, and develop a positive outlook.
It can also offer guidance on managing practical challenges, such as navigating healthcare systems and accessing support services.
By addressing the emotional and practical challenges of a new spinal cord injury, spinal cord injury counselling empowers individuals to regain a sense of control and move forward with their lives.
Perceptions?
The way people perceive spinal cord injuries can significantly impact the lives of individuals with these injuries.
Misconceptions and lack of understanding can create barriers to accessing appropriate social services and employment opportunities and navigating education and healthcare.
These misperceptions can lead to discrimination, inadequate support, and lowered expectations, which can impact self-esteem, financial stability, and overall well-being.
Social isolation and stigma can also arise from these negative perceptions, hindering social inclusion and contributing to mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a crucial space for individuals to address the emotional and psychological impact of these experiences.
It helps individuals develop coping mechanisms, build resilience, and advocate for their needs. It can also support managing changes in body image, relationships, and independence.
By challenging societal perceptions and fostering understanding, spinal cord injury counselling empowers individuals to navigate challenges and live fulfilling lives.
Health?
Health anxiety is a common experience for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
Adapting to the injury, managing physical changes, and navigating rehabilitation can trigger worries about future health, complications, and overall well-being.
Concerns about chronic pain, secondary health conditions (such as pressure sores or urinary tract infections), and potential medical issues can contribute to heightened anxiety.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides specialised support in addressing these anxieties.
Therapists help individuals develop coping strategies, navigate challenges in accessing healthcare, and build resilience for managing uncertainties.
They can also support understanding the injury, managing pain, and adjusting to changes in physical abilities.
By addressing health anxiety, spinal cord injury counselling empowers individuals to focus on their recovery and improve their quality of life.
Loss of Autonomy
Loss of autonomy is a significant concern for many individuals with spinal cord injuries, impacting their mental health and overall well-being.
This loss can stem from physical limitations, challenges with mobility, and societal barriers restricting independence.
Spinal cord injury counselling plays a crucial role in helping individuals cope with this loss and reclaim a sense of control over their lives.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a supportive space to address the emotional impact of dependence on others for daily tasks, challenges in decision-making, and limitations in social or professional participation.
It can also help individuals process feelings of grief, frustration, and loss associated with changes in their abilities.
Therapists can help individuals develop coping strategies, enhance self-advocacy skills, and explore new avenues for independence.
They can also support adapting to new ways of doing things, accessing assistive technology, and advocating for accessibility.
By addressing the loss of autonomy, spinal cord injury counselling empowers individuals to navigate their challenges, build resilience, and live fulfilling lives.
Financial Strain
Financial strain is a significant concern for many individuals with spinal cord injuries, impacting their mental health and overall well-being.
The costs associated with hospitalisation, rehabilitation, assistive devices, home modifications, and ongoing medical care can be substantial, leading to chronic stress and anxiety.
Loss of income due to changes in employment can further exacerbate these financial challenges.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides valuable support in navigating these financial challenges.
Therapists can offer strategies for managing financial stress, coping with the emotional impact of unexpected expenses, and advocating for financial assistance or affordable care.
They can also provide support in exploring vocational rehabilitation options and adjusting to changes in employment.
By addressing financial concerns, spinal cord injury counselling helps individuals focus on their recovery, reduce stress, and improve their quality of life.
Anxiety?
Anxiety is a common experience for many individuals with spinal cord injuries.
The challenges of adapting to the injury, navigating rehabilitation, and managing physical and emotional changes can contribute to heightened anxiety levels.
Spinal cord injury counselling is crucial in helping individuals cope with these anxieties and improve their overall well-being.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a safe and supportive space to address anxieties related to various aspects of life after injury.
This can include concerns about body image, social interactions, employment, finances, accessing healthcare, and managing changes in mobility and independence.
Therapists can help individuals develop coping strategies, build resilience, and improve self-advocacy skills.
They can also help manage pain, adjust to assistive devices, and navigate relationships.
By addressing anxiety, spinal cord injury counselling empowers individuals to focus on their recovery, adjust to their new reality, and live fulfilling lives.
Depression?
Depression is a significant concern for many individuals with spinal cord injuries.
Adapting to life after a spinal cord injury involves navigating numerous challenges, both physical and emotional, which can contribute to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in life.
These challenges may include coping with chronic pain, adjusting to changes in mobility and independence, facing changes in body image, and navigating social and professional adjustments.
Several factors can increase the risk of depression in the context of spinal cord injury.
These include difficulties with mobility, challenges in accessing appropriate healthcare and support services, financial strain, and experiences of social isolation or stigma.
The emotional impact of spinal cord injury, including grief, anxiety, and trauma, can also contribute to depression.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a safe and supportive space to address depression and its underlying causes.
Therapists help individuals process their emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience.
They can also assist in connecting with resources, improving self-esteem, and fostering social connections.
By addressing depression, spinal cord injury counselling empowers individuals to improve their mental health and overall well-being.
Relationships?
Spinal cord injury can significantly impact relationships, affecting the individual with the injury and their loved ones.
Adjusting to life after a spinal cord injury often involves navigating changes in body image, physical abilities, and emotional well-being, which can influence dynamics within relationships.
Partners, family members, and friends may experience a range of emotions, including worry, sadness, and uncertainty, as they adapt to these changes alongside the individual.
Communication plays a crucial role in navigating relationships after a spinal cord injury.
Open and honest conversations about needs, concerns, and expectations can help maintain healthy connections and foster mutual understanding.
Intimacy can also be affected by spinal cord injury, and addressing changes in physical intimacy and emotional connection is essential for maintaining strong and fulfilling relationships.
Spinal cord injury counselling can provide valuable support for individuals and their loved ones in navigating relationship challenges.
Therapists can help individuals communicate effectively, address intimacy concerns, and strengthen bonds with their partners, family, and friends.
They can also offer guidance on navigating social situations, building new relationships, and fostering a supportive network.
Spinal cord injury counselling addresses relationship concerns, helps individuals maintain strong connections, and builds fulfilling relationships after injury.
Carers?
Caring for a loved one with a spinal cord injury can be an enriching experience, but it also comes with unique challenges that can impact a carer’s well-being.
Carers often face emotional strain as they witness their loved ones navigate the physical and emotional challenges of the injury.
The physical demands of assisting with daily tasks and medical appointments can lead to exhaustion, while caregiving responsibilities may limit social interaction and contribute to feelings of isolation.
Financial concerns and changes in relationship dynamics can add further complexity to the carer’s experience.
Spinal cord injury counselling offers valuable support to carers facing these challenges.
It provides a safe and supportive space to process emotions such as worry, sadness, and even secondary trauma.
Therapists can offer practical guidance on caregiving techniques, navigating resources, and managing the daily demands of caring for someone with a spinal cord injury.
They can also offer advice on understanding the injury, managing complications, and accessing appropriate support services.
They can also connect carers with respite care options, allowing for essential breaks and self-care.
Furthermore, spinal cord injury counselling can help carers navigate relationship changes and maintain healthy communication with their loved ones.
Support groups provide opportunities to connect with others facing similar challenges, fostering a sense of community and shared understanding.
Spinal cord injury counselling addresses the unique needs of carers, helping them maintain their well-being, strengthen their relationships, and provide the best possible support to their loved ones.
Trauma?
Trauma is a common experience for individuals with spinal cord injuries, as the event leading to the injury can be physically and emotionally shocking.
This can include accidents, falls, sports injuries, or medical conditions resulting in spinal cord damage.
Such events can leave a lasting impact on a person’s mental and emotional well-being, leading to symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and avoidance.
The experience of trauma can vary significantly from person to person.
Factors such as the nature of the event, the individual’s coping mechanisms, and their support system can influence the severity and duration of traumatic symptoms.
It’s essential to recognise that trauma can manifest in different ways, including physical symptoms like hypervigilance and sleep disturbances, emotional changes like fear and anger, and cognitive difficulties like concentration problems and intrusive thoughts.
Spinal cord injury counselling provides a safe and supportive space for individuals to address trauma related to their injury.
Trauma-informed therapists can help individuals process their experiences, develop coping strategies for managing triggers and flashbacks, and work through feelings of fear, guilt, or shame.
By addressing trauma, spinal cord injury counselling helps individuals heal from the past, reduce distress, and move forward with their lives.
Support for you from Spinal Cord Injury Organisations
Information
If you would like to know more about a spinal cord injury including classifications & grading we have a webpage dedicated to you.
For Practical Support
SIA is the national Spinal Injuries Association, they can help you with multi-functionality support.
Aspire
Aspire provides practical help to people who have been paralysed by Spinal Cord Injury, supporting them from injury to independence
Specialist Mental Health Counselling for Adults with Spinal Cord Injuries
Adjusting to life with a spinal cord injury can be overwhelming. DisabilityPlus offers specialised counselling services tailored to the unique needs of individuals with SCI. Our team of experienced professionals provides compassionate support to help you cope with emotional challenges, build resilience, and achieve a fulfilling life.
"Client with a Spinal Cord Injury, Therapist with an SCI"
Who else would truly understand your life experiences & therefore be able to truly support you
Supporting all Types of Spinal Cord Injury
Complete and Incomplete SCI under classifications ASIA A, B, C, D and E
Enquires
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Self-Refer
Feeling Overwhelmed After a Spinal Cord Injury? You're Not Alone.
It’s okay not to be OK. A spinal cord injury can turn your world upside down, leaving you with a mix of emotions like sadness, worry, or even anger. That’s completely normal.
At Disability Plus, we get it. Our spinal cord injury counsellors, psychotherapists, and psychologists have all been through it themselves, so we understand the challenges you’re facing.
We offer a safe and supportive space to discuss your feelings and find ways to cope with life’s changes.
Our spinal cord injury counselling services are tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re struggling with:
Adjusting to new normal
We’ll help you navigate the ups and downs of adapting to life after injury, including finding new ways to do things and rediscovering your strengths.
Feeling down or anxious?
We’ll share practical strategies for managing those overwhelming feelings and finding more peace and joy in your day-to-day life.
Grieving what's been lost
We’ll provide a compassionate space to process your grief and find ways to move forward.
Dealing with difficult memories
If you’re experiencing flashbacks or nightmares, our spinal cord injury counselling can help you process those experiences and find healing.
Coping with pain
We can help you develop tools to manage chronic pain so it doesn’t take over your life.
Navigating relationships
We can offer support in communicating with loved ones and building strong connections.
Session Fees
We believe everyone should have access to counselling. That’s why we offer reduced rates to the public, with sessions starting at just £50 for 50 minutes.
Our Fees:
Initial Session: £50
Following Sessions: £180 for every three sessions after that.
Extended Sessions:
For clients using assistive communication devices, we offer longer sessions (70 minutes) for £90 per session or £220 for a package of 3.
Payment Plans Available:
We understand that self-paying for therapy can be challenging.
If you need assistance, please contact us to discuss payment plan options.
Free Funding
We understand the financial challenges of living with a spinal cord injury.
Disability Plus offers free funding application assistance for spinal cord injury counselling in England and Wales.
See our criteria below to check your eligibility.
Criteria
Are you an adult (18+) living with an SCI residing in England or Wales and struggling to find the support you need?
We understand that navigating the healthcare system can be challenging, especially if NHS local mental health services have turned you away as too complex.
We’ll work with you to determine eligibility and then make a funding application for you, relieving your pressure.
While funding approval varies by region, we’ll explore every avenue and connect you with the most suitable resources if your NHS region does not support us.
What Our Clients Say
Hear from individuals who have benefited from our spinal cord injury counselling services.
“Before I started counseling with Kevin, I was feeling lost and hopeless. He helped me to see that I could still have a happy and meaningful life after my injury. I’m so grateful for his support.”
“I was hesitant to seek counselling at first, but I’m so glad I did. My counselor has helped me to improve my relationships and build a stronger support system.”
“As someone with a spinal cord injury, it was crucial for me to find a counsellor who truly understood my situation. With DisabilityPlus, I found that and more. My counsellor has helped me to see my injury not as an end, but as a new beginning.”
“Kevin helped me realise that I wasn’t alone. He taught me practical coping strategies for dealing with anxiety and adjusting to my new life with a wheelchair. I’m now able to manage my emotions and focus on my rehabilitation.”
“Jill has been a lifesaver for me. She’s helped me to deal with my anxiety and depression, and I’m now feeling much more positive about the future.”
“I’ve learned so much about myself and how to cope with my injury through counseling. I’m now living a more independent and fulfilling life.”
“My son was devastated after his accident. He wouldn’t talk to anyone and just shut down completely. Counselling with Jill has made a world of difference. He’s finally opening up, and I can see the spark returning to his eyes. Thank you, Disability Plus.”
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