ASSESSMENTS, COUNSELLING & TREATMENT FOR MVA IN EDMONTON
Counselling for Motor Vehicle Accidents in Edmonton, AB
A TEAM OF EXPERIENCED PSYCHOLOGISTS SPECIALIZING IN MVA COUNSELLING & ASSESSMENTS IN EDMONTON
Comprehensive Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Counselling & Assessments in Edmonton, AB
Being involved in a motor vehicle accident (MVA) can leave more than just physical scars; it can affect your emotional and mental well-being as well. At Solace Psychology & Wellness, Edmonton and St. Albert, we offer compassionate, professional counseling and assessment services tailored specifically to individuals who have experienced the emotional aftermath of a motor vehicle accident.
It’s not uncommon for individuals who have been involved in a vehicle collision to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), driving anxiety, or ongoing stress. Many also report symptoms such as sleep disturbances, nightmares, difficulty concentrating, feeling on edge or easily startled, flashbacks, and avoidance of driving or travel. These challenges can interfere with daily life, relationships, and work if left untreated.
Our team of experienced Edmonton psychologists and Registered Massage Therapists is here to support you in your recovery. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, or other psychological effects of an accident, we use a trauma-informed and evidence-based approach to help you process your experience, build coping strategies, and regain confidence and control.
Direct billing is available for select insurance companies.
Supporting Your Recovery After a Motor Vehicle Accident in Edmonton
Motor Vehicle Accident Support at Solace Psychology & Wellness
At Solace Psychology & Wellness our therapists in Edmonton and St. Albert understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident (MVA) can feel—not only emotionally, but also when navigating insurance and medical systems. We provide comprehensive, wrap-around care including professional psychological assessments, counselling, and massage services tailored to your unique needs. Our team of experienced Registered Psychologists and Massage Therapists is here to guide you through both the healing process and the practical steps of accessing care.
*Note: Massage treatments are only offered at our Edmonton location, while all other MVA services are offered at our Edmonton and St. Albert clinics.
Our unique MVA approach at Solace Psychology & Wellness:
In-House Massage Services: Specialized treatments to aid MVA recovery, including care for TMJ, muscle tension, and other accident-related injuries. (Edmonton clinic only)
Assessments & Diagnosis: Our psychologists will provide a comprehensive MVA Assessment to evaluate your symptoms, offer a diagnosis when appropriate, and advocate for treatment coverage under Section B accident benefits in Alberta.
Evidence-Based MVA Trauma Therapy: We use a variety of proven techniques to reduce your suffering and boost recovery. Whether your goals are to regain confidence while driving, feel safe leaving the house again, improve sleep, manage pain, or reduce anxiety and stress, our focus is always on helping you feel better and achieve lasting change.
Coordination with Healthcare Providers and Legal Support: We work closely with your lawyer, claims adjuster, physician and other healthcare providers to ensure your treatment aligns with insurance coverage and supports your overall recovery.
Referrals to Partner Agencies: We provide trusted referrals in Edmonton and surrounding areas for physiotherapy, chiropractic care, psychiatry, dentistry (including TMJ and splint treatment), and other relevant services.
Client-Centered, Judgment-Free and Confidential Care: Every client’s experience is unique. We take the time to understand your situation and customize treatment plans to support lasting recovery and improved quality of life.
Direct Billing: For added convenience, we provide direct billing to most major insurance providers in Alberta, so you can focus on recovery while we handle the paperwork.
- Convenient Appointment Scheduling: We understand the challenges of finding time for therapy. Our practice offers flexible scheduling to fit your needs, including daytime, evening, weekend, in-person and virtual sessions.
Common Psychological Disorders Following a Motor Vehicle Accident
While some people notice symptoms immediately after a motor vehicle accident, others may not realize the psychological impact until weeks or even months later. Recognizing these signs early is key to getting the right support and treatment (as well as accessing funding).
Common Disorders After an MVA
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Flashbacks, nightmares, heightened startle response, and avoidance of driving or accident reminders.
- Adjustment Disorder: Difficulty coping with changes in life circumstances following the accident.
Acute Stress Disorder (ASD): Intense fear, distress, or intrusive thoughts that occur shortly after the accident.
Anxiety: Ongoing worry, panic attacks, restlessness, or feeling constantly on edge.
- Phobias (Specific or Driving Phobia): Intense fear of driving, being in a vehicle, or even leaving the house.
Major Depressive Disorder: Low mood, loss of interest in daily activities, feelings of hopelessness, or changes in appetite and sleep.
Somatic Symptom Disorder: Ongoing physical complaints (e.g., pain, dizziness, fatigue) that are worsened by psychological distress.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)–Related Cognitive Disorders: Difficulty with memory, concentration, decision-making, or processing information following head trauma.
Substance Use Disorder: Using alcohol or drugs to cope with pain, sleep issues, or distress after the accident.
Chronic Pain–Related Psychological Conditions: Emotional distress linked with long-term pain, often leading to irritability, withdrawal, or hopelessness.
At Solace Psychology & Wellness, our trauma-informed psychologists specialize in recognizing and treating these symptoms. Through evidence-based therapy and individualized care, we can help you work through the psychological impact of your accident and support you in reclaiming your quality of life.
Common Psychological Disorders Following a Motor Vehicle Accident
While some people notice symptoms immediately after a motor vehicle accident, others may not realize the psychological impact until weeks or even months later. Recognizing these signs early is key to getting the right support and treatment (as well as accessing funding).
Common Disorders Related to an MVA
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Flashbacks, nightmares, heightened startle response, and avoidance of driving or accident reminders.
- Adjustment Disorder: Difficulty coping with changes in life circumstances following the accident.
Acute Stress Disorder (ASD): Intense fear, distress, or intrusive thoughts that occur shortly after the accident.
Anxiety: Ongoing worry, panic attacks, restlessness, or feeling constantly on edge.
- Phobias (Specific or Driving Phobia): Intense fear of driving, being in a vehicle, or even leaving the house.
Major Depressive Disorder: Low mood, loss of interest in daily activities, feelings of hopelessness, or changes in appetite and sleep.
Somatic Symptom Disorder: Ongoing physical complaints (e.g., pain, dizziness, fatigue) that are worsened by psychological distress.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)–Related Cognitive Disorders: Difficulty with memory, concentration, decision-making, or processing information following head trauma.
Substance Use Disorder: Using alcohol or drugs to cope with pain, sleep issues, or distress after the accident.
Chronic Pain–Related Psychological Conditions: Emotional distress linked with long-term pain, often leading to irritability, withdrawal, or hopelessness.
At Solace Psychology & Wellness, our trauma-informed psychologists specialize in recognizing and treating these symptoms. Through evidence-based therapy and individualized care, we can help you work through the psychological impact of your accident and support you in reclaiming your quality of life.
Common Symptoms Post Motor Vehicle Accident
MVA injury symptoms to look out for:
Sleep disturbances (difficulty falling or staying asleep, vivid dreams, or nightmares)
Irritability or sudden mood swings
Heightened startle response or feeling “on edge”
Flashbacks of the accident (as if it were happening again)
Physical symptoms linked to stress, such as headaches, fatigue, or stomach upset
Fear of driving, being a passenger, or leaving the house
Feeling emotionally numb
Feeling disconnected from loved ones or friends
Avoidance of people, places, or events that might remind you of the accident
Grief or survivors’ guilt
Memory problems (forgetting details, trouble recalling conversations)
Slower processing speed (feeling “foggy” or slowed down)
Difficulty with concentration, problem-solving, or decision-making
Dizziness or balance problems
Fatigue or low energy
Supporting Your Child's MVA Trauma Recovery in Edmonton
Trauma Therapy for Children After a Motor Vehicle Accident in Edmonton
Children and teens can be especially vulnerable to the emotional impact of a motor vehicle accident. Even if they appear “fine” on the outside, they may struggle with fear, sleep disturbances, separation anxiety, or regression in behaviors. Early, specialized intervention can make a significant difference in helping them recover and thrive.
At Solace Psychology & Wellness, our psychologists use evidence-based, child-friendly approaches to help children process their experiences in a safe and supportive way. We incorporate a variety of developmentally appropriate therapies that allow children to express themselves when words alone may not be enough:
Play Therapy: Through guided play, children can work through their fears, anxieties, and trauma responses in a way that feels natural and safe to them.
Art Therapy: Creative expression provides a powerful outlet for children to explore and communicate their emotions.
Sandtray Therapy: Using symbols, figures, and a tray of sand, children can externalize their experiences, reframe the trauma, and begin to heal in a non-verbal, symbolic way.
These approaches are research-supported and shown to be highly effective in treating trauma in children. Our goal is to help your child feel safe, regain confidence, and move forward with resilience.
To learn more about Play, Art & Sandtray Therapy at Solace click below.
Common Signs of Trauma in Children After an MVA:
Nightmares or trouble sleeping
Increased clinginess or separation anxiety
Sudden changes in mood or behavior
Regression (e.g., bedwetting, baby talk, loss of previously learned skills)
Avoidance of car rides or fear of being on the road
Physical complaints (e.g., headaches, stomachaches) with no clear medical cause
Difficulty concentrating at school
At Solace, parents are also supported in understanding trauma symptoms and learning strategies to foster healing at home. Together, we work to ensure that the entire family feels more secure and connected after the accident.
PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT FOR MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENTS IN EDMONTON
Accident Benefits for Counselling & Rehabilitation Services You May be Entitled to in Alberta
If you’ve been involved in a motor vehicle accident in Alberta, you may be eligible for funding for counselling, massage and other healthcare services under Section B Accident Benefits.
Our team will guide you through the process of navigating your benefits under Section B insurance and your Extended Health Care plans for counselling, assessments and massage services.
Section B of an Alberta automobile insurance policy:
Following a motor vehicle accident in Alberta, individuals are eligible for up to $50,000 per person in medical and rehabilitation benefits over a two-year period.
Coverage limits vary by service type, including counselling, physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and other rehabilitation treatments.
These benefits cover a wide range of treatments, including psychological and massage services if deemed necessary by your attending physician and approved by the insurer.
MVA Counselling at Solace:
At Solace Psychology & Wellness, we are experienced in working with insurance adjusters, lawyers, and physicians to help clients access Section B coverage. Our team can:
Conduct comprehensive MVA assessments to evaluate symptoms and provide a diagnosis.
Advocate for funding for your counselling and massage sessions, ensuring coverage under Section B.
Provide direct billing to major insurance agencies in Alberta, including counselling and massage therapy, so you don’t have to pay out-of-pocket upfront.
Offer trauma-informed counselling and massage services designed to help you regain confidence, improve daily functioning, and achieve lasting recovery.
Need additional rehabilitation services?
We maintain strong partnerships with trusted healthcare providers in Edmonton and the surrounding area, allowing us to refer clients to experienced professionals who can support your physical and mental recovery from an MVA. These referrals ensure that you receive coordinated, comprehensive care tailored to your needs.
Our team can connect you with specialists in:
Chiropractic treatment for musculoskeletal injuries
Physiotherapy to restore mobility and function
Massage therapy for pain management and relaxation – offered in-house at Solace Psychology & Wellness (South Edmonton)
Dentists & TMJ Specialists for TMJ therapy or custom splints
Psychiatry for medication management or complex mental health support
Other rehabilitation services as needed
We also have established relationships with lawyers experienced in MVA claims, so we can provide guidance and referrals if legal support is required.
When appropriate, we can coordinate care and provide documentation for insurance purposes, helping you access Section B coverage or other available benefits.
Important Details About MVA Claims
Meeting deadlines is crucial for maintaining your eligibility. You will want to report the motor vehicle accident to your insurer as soon as possible and within 30 days.
What to ask your claims adjuster:
- Deadlines for form submissions
- Deadlines for access to funding for specific services
- Maximum coverage amounts for specific health services (such as counselling, massage, etc.)
- Which health services you need your physician to prescribe or recommend in order to access funding
Other Considerations
Claim Submission: To access these benefits, it’s essential to submit claims promptly. The deadline periods (ex: 90-day deadline, 2-year deadline) begins from the date of the accident, so timely documentation and submission are crucial.
Coordination with Healthcare Providers: Ensure that all healthcare providers involved are aware of the adjunct therapy benefits and can provide the necessary documentation to support your claims.
Insurance Communication: Maintain open communication with your insurance provider to confirm coverage details and any required documentation.
MASSAGE TREATMENTS FOR MVA INJURIES IN EDMONTON, ALBERTA
Specialized Massage Therapy for Motor Vehicle Accident Recovery in Edmonton
At Solace Psychology & Wellness, South Edmonton clinic, our Registered Massage Therapists provide trauma-informed care, taking the time to listen to your goals, understand your needs, and ensure you feel comfortable throughout each session.
Our massage therapy services focus on relieving pain, reducing tension, and supporting recovery from motor vehicle accident injuries, including:
Neck, shoulder, and back pain from whiplash or impact
TMJ therapy and jaw tension relief
Muscle tension release tailored to your specific injury and recovery needs
All treatments take place in our relaxing, coastal-inspired clinic, featuring beachy décor, calming photos, soothing zen music, and warm hot towels, creating a serene environment designed to help you feel safe and supported.
Our Massage Therapists can coordinate with your counselling and assessment plan, ensuring a holistic approach to recovery. Sessions can be directly billed to Alberta insurance providers under Section B to ease your stress.
Experience compassionate, personalized care in a space designed for comfort, calm, and recovery.
To learn more about massage services for MVA at our Edmonton clinic, click below.
MVA Assessment Questions Answered
Frequently Asked Questions: Motor Vehicle Accident Recovery in Edmonton, Alberta
What services does Solace Psychology & Wellness offer for MVA recovery?
At our Edmonton psychology clinic, we provide trauma-informed counselling, psychological assessments, in-house massage therapy, and referrals to trusted healthcare providers in Edmonton and area, including physiotherapy, chiropractic care, dentistry (TMJ/splints), psychiatry, and more. We also coordinate with lawyers and claims adjusters when needed.
Are your services covered by insurance?
Many of our services can be billed directly to major Alberta insurance providers under Section B coverage as well as Extended Health Benefit Plans. This includes counselling, massage therapy, and assessments, subject to insurer approval.
How soon after an accident should I start counselling?
It’s best to seek counselling support as early as possible, especially if you notice symptoms such as anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or difficulty sleeping. Early intervention can improve recovery outcomes.
What should I expect in a counselling session for MVA recovery?
Sessions are trauma-informed and tailored to your needs. We use evidence-based therapies like CBT and EMDR, help you process emotional and psychological impacts, and guide you toward practical coping strategies and lasting improvement.
Do you provide assessments for insurance purposes?
Yes our Edmonton psychological team specializes in motor vehicle accident counselling and assessments. Our team can complete psychological assessments, document symptoms, and provide formal diagnoses following an MVA to support insurance claims and access to benefits.
Do I need to have a specific diagnosis to seek therapy?
No, you don’t need a diagnosis to begin counselling. Many people seek therapy for emotional support after an accident, regardless of whether or not they’ve been formally diagnosed with conditions like PTSD.
How many MVA therapy sessions will I need?
The number of MVA counselling sessions depends on your individual needs and goals. Some individuals may find relief in a few sessions, while others may require longer-term support. We will regularly assess progress and adjust treatment as needed.
Book your MVA therapy session in Edmonton or St. Albert.
YOUR TRUSTED EDMONTON PSYCHOLOGISTS FOR MVA
Solace Psychology & Wellness
EDMONTON: hello@solacewellness.ca | 780-702-1079 | #205, 2435 90B Street SW, Edmonton, AB, Canada, T6X 1V8
ST. ALBERT: StAlbert@solacewellness.ca | 780-702-1079 | #508, 1 Tache Street, St. Albert, AB, Canada, T8N 1B4