POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome)
Treatment

Living with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome often involves both physical symptoms and secondary psychological impacts. While therapy does not treat the underlying autonomic condition, it plays a critical role in improving functioning, symptom tolerance, and overall quality of life.

Our clinicians bring diverse training and expertise, and while treatment approaches may vary, care is always grounded in evidence-based practices. Most clinicians work primarily from one core modality—such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)—while thoughtfully integrating elements of other approaches when clinically appropriate. This allows for both consistency in treatment and flexibility to meet each client’s unique needs.

Our Treatment Focus Includes:

1. Nervous System Regulation:

We help clients understand how the autonomic nervous system contributes to symptoms and teach regulation strategies such as:

• Breathing techniques to reduce heart rate reactivity
• Grounding exercises to manage dizziness and disorientation
• Body-based calming strategies to reduce symptom escalation

2. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT):

CBT is used to address:

• Health anxiety and fear of symptoms (e.g., fear of fainting or heart issues)
• Catastrophic thinking patterns
• Avoidance behaviours that can worsen deconditioning

3. Activity Pacing & Energy Management:

Clients learn structured pacing strategies to:

• Prevent “boom and bust” cycles
• Gradually increase tolerance for activity
• Maintain consistency in daily routines

4. Acceptance & Adjustment Work:

Chronic conditions often require a shift in expectations. We support:

• Adjustment to diagnosis
• Identity changes and grief processing
• Building a sustainable lifestyle within current limits

5. Functional Goal Setting:

Treatment is highly practical and focuses on:

• Returning to work or school
• Increasing independence
• Improving day-to-day functioning