PMDD Treatment & Counselling for Severe PMS, PME, and Pre-Menstrual Disorders
We help you understand your cycle, so you can reclaim your life.
PMDD,PME, and Severe PMS
Feeling Out of Control by Your Cycle?
Pre-Menstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is an endocrine disorder affecting about 8% of menstruating women. It is a severe form of PMS occurring during the luteal phase (the time between ovulation and menstruation).
Do you feel (typically in the weeks leading up to your period):
- Intense mood swings?
- Rage, irritability and/or severe anger?
- Depression?
- Anxiety?
- Lack of joy?
- Suicidal thoughts?
- Physical symptoms such as headaches, sore breasts, hot flashes, difficulty sleeping, and/or joint pain?
What You Can Expect from PMDD Counselling
How to Treat PMDD?
The first step is education and awareness, bringing attention to this serious disorder. The next step is real, viable help in the form of a bio-psycho-social approach. Medication. Vitamins. Hormones. Talk therapy. Meditation. Exercise. Diet. Any combination of these things can help regulate PMDD. Most importantly, though, is taking a diagnosis seriously.
How to deal with PMS depression?
PMS depression is linked to hormonal changes in the luteal phase, often causing mood swings, fatigue, and low motivation. Evidence-based treatments like Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), lifestyle tracking, and symptom-aware routines can help. At Impart Therapy, we support clients in developing emotional regulation skills tailored to their cycle.
Many clients benefit from exploring holistic approaches to menstrual health, such as the suggestions outlined in this external wellness resource.
PMDD Questions Explained
What causes PMDD?
PMDD is not caused by a hormonal imbalance, but rather by an increased sensitivity to the natural hormonal changes that occur throughout the menstrual cycle. This sensitivity exists on a spectrum, with symptom severity ranging from mild to severe, and it can vary from month to month or even year to year. Many individuals with PMDD find that certain life stages, such as perimenopause—the transition into menopause which typically lasts around four years—can be particularly challenging due to heightened symptom intensity. Understanding this sensitivity helps clarify why PMDD symptoms fluctuate and highlights the importance of tailored therapeutic approaches.
What is PME?
Premenstrual Exacerbation (PME) is common among individuals previously diagnosed with mental health conditions like bipolar disorder, anxiety, or depression. Symptoms worsen significantly during the luteal phase but differ from PMDD in that symptoms persist, though often lessen, during the follicular phase (the time between menstruation and ovulation). PME, like PMDD, responds well to a holistic treatment approach. In addition to individual therapy, we also offer PMDD Couples Counseling, providing support for couples navigating the unique challenges of PMDD together. Learn more about our PMDD Couples Counselling here.
How to deal with PMS depression?
PMS depression is linked to hormonal changes in the luteal phase, often causing mood swings, fatigue, and low motivation. Evidence-based treatments like Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), lifestyle tracking, and symptom-aware routines can help. At Impart Therapy, we support clients in developing emotional regulation skills tailored to their cycle.
How do I get diagnosed with PMDD?
Your GP or OB/GYN typically diagnoses PMDD, and for more details of the diagnostic criteria for PMDD, please visit this site. Diagnosis can also be made by a psychologist or psychiatrist. Leading up to diagnosis,you may be asked to track your symptoms for a period of three months before a diagnosis can be made, and you can download a tracker here.
What is the difference between follicular andluteal phases?
The follicular phase of your cycle is between menstruation and ovulation (typically 1 to 14 days, although this range is different for everyone). During this time, there are little to no symptoms reported, and some refer to this phase as our “magical time.” The luteal phase starts after ovulation and continues until the onset of bleeding. It is during this timeframe when sufferers notices symptoms. Some experience the majority of symptoms the week or so leading up to their period, but others notice immediately upon ovulation. During menstruation (either immediately or a few days after onset), PMDD sufferers report their symptoms abating.
Get control of your PMDD symptoms – let us help.
How to get started!
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Our number 647-458-1639
Impart Therapy provides counselling services to individuals and families across Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area.