In this episode, Joe Tatta, PT, DPT, speaks with Sarah Conover, PT, MHS, CHC, a vestibular therapist with a background in treating anxiety, dizziness, and pain. Sarah shared her journey, starting from her early career in the late 1980s, working in acute neuro care, to her current practice, which focuses on chronic vestibular issues. She highlighted the evolution of vestibular therapy and the increasing recognition of conditions like vestibular migraine, 3PD (persistent postural perceptual dizziness), and Mal de Débarquement syndrome.
We delved into the intricate connections between the vestibular system and mental health, discussing how dizziness can trigger anxiety and other autonomic responses due to the close interplay between the vestibular system, the autonomic nervous system, and brain structures like the amygdala and hypothalamus. Sarah emphasized the importance of a holistic approach in treatment, incorporating mindfulness and acceptance-based strategies to help patients manage their symptoms.
Sarah also shared her personal journey with anxiety and how it has influenced her practice. She employs a range of tools, including mindfulness practices, thought reframing, and expressive writing, to assist her patients in developing a sense of safety and acceptance regarding their symptoms. We also touched on the role of spirituality in healing, with Sarah explaining how she gently explores this aspect with her patients to support their overall well-being.
To learn more about Sarah’s work, visit her at dizzycoach.com
Visit integrativepainscienceinstitute.com for more information and CEU courses on pain care and mental health for physical therapists.
Thank you for listening,
Joe Tatta, PT, DPT
CEO, Integrative Pain Science Institute
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Treating Anxiety, Dizziness, and Pain
Timestamps
00:00:00 – Introduction to Anxiety, Dizziness, and Pain
00:01:17 – Sarah’s Background in Neurologic Physical Therapy
00:05:00 – The Connection Between Dizziness and Mental Health
00:06:00 – Evolution of Vestibular and Pelvic Health
00:07:03 – Common Vestibular Conditions
00:09:31 – Linking Mental Health and Dizziness
00:12:33 – Differential Diagnosis in Vestibular Disorders
00:15:24 – Understanding the Whole Person Approach
00:16:16 – Mindfulness Practices for Vestibular Patients
00:20:05 – Acceptance and Coping with Dizziness
00:21:15 – Tools and Techniques for Managing Dizziness
00:27:07 – Strength-Based Approaches in Health Coaching
00:28:22 – The Role of Spirituality in Treatment
00:30:28 – Exploring Spirituality and Purpose
00:32:01 – Dissociation and Mindfulness
00:36:49 – The Journey of Healing from Dizziness
00:38:47 – Conclusion and Resources for Further Learning on Anxiety, Dizziness, and Pain
Links and Resources Related to Anxiety, Dizziness, and Pain
Mental Health Physical Therapist Certification Program
Special Guest: Sarah Conover, PT, MHS, CHC
To learn more about Sarah’s work, visit her at dizzycoach.com
Sarah Conover is a leading vestibular therapist and certified health coach, who helps people in many parts of the world in the prime of their lives, recover from dizziness and imbalance, as well as the anxiety that oftentimes comes along, so they can get back to work, family responsibilities, and the life they love.
After over 30 years of caring for and returning people with debilitating vertigo, concussions, and balance impairments back to the fullness of their active lives, she founded Sarah Conover Vestibular Therapy and Coaching to meet a growing need for convenient and fast access to an experienced vestibular therapist and coach. She is also the creator of Master the Dizziness Method, through which she finds her passion in helping people with daily dizziness get their lives back.
Sarah has degrees from both the University of Evansville and the University of Indianapolis. Her credentials include Vestibular Certification through the rigorous Herdman program at Emory University, Cervicogenic (dizziness related to neck issues) Competency, Certification in Functional Nutrition, Certified Mental Health Physical Therapist, Certified Safe and Sound Protocol Provider (Polyvagal theory), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction training.