I’m the owner and sole practitioner of Steady Hearts Psychological Services, a virtual health psychology practice dedicated to supporting those affected by chronic illness—whether as patients, care givers, or healthcare providers. As a registered psychologist in Nova Scotia, I offer telepsychology services across the Maritime provinces. In addition to my private practice, I work full-time as a health psychologist at Nova Scotia Health, providing psychological care to patients with chronic physical health conditions in hospital and outpatient settings. Working on interdisciplinary teams, I also support fellow healthcare providers in navigating the challenges of their roles, giving them tools to better support their practice in managing the psychological and behavioural complexities of patients.
Above all, I believe that having feelings about chronic illness—and the systems that treat it—is normal. In working with me, you’ll have space to explore and express the full range of emotions that come with your experiences. I approach my work with compassion, curiosity, and non- judgment, helping you feel seen and understood.
At the same time, I know that hardship can make us lose sight of ourselves. Support isn’t just about processing emotions—it’s about regaining your footing, reconnecting with what matters to you, and developing new ways to move forward. Sometimes, that means being gently challenged to find new perspectives and strengths within your circumstances.
While this work is serious, I also believe in bringing warmth, humanity, and even humor into our conversations. You might laugh, cry, and swear all in one conversation—and I’ll be right there with you.
This balance—of compassion and challenge, of steadiness and growth—is at the core of Steady Hearts Psychological Services. I believe that real change happens when we feel both supported with where we are and encouraged to stretch beyond our comfort zones. My role is to provide that steady foundation so you can do the meaningful work of healing, adapting, and moving forward.
I integrate scientific research with a deep understanding of the psychological impact of chronic disease, and the challenges involved in treating it. My work is grounded in evidence-based
approaches, including:
Above all, I believe that having feelings about chronic illness—and the systems that treat it—is normal. In working with me, you’ll have space to explore and express the full range of emotions that come with your experiences. I approach my work with compassion, curiosity, and non- judgment, helping you feel seen and understood.
At the same time, I know that hardship can make us lose sight of ourselves. Support isn’t just about processing emotions—it’s about regaining your footing, reconnecting with what matters to you, and developing new ways to move forward. Sometimes, that means being gently challenged to find new perspectives and strengths within your circumstances.
While this work is serious, I also believe in bringing warmth, humanity, and even humor into our conversations. You might laugh, cry, and swear all in one conversation—and I’ll be right there with you.
This balance—of compassion and challenge, of steadiness and growth—is at the core of Steady Hearts Psychological Services. I believe that real change happens when we feel both supported with where we are and encouraged to stretch beyond our comfort zones. My role is to provide that steady foundation so you can do the meaningful work of healing, adapting, and moving forward.
We provide compassionate, expert psychological support tailored for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals navigating the challenges of chronic illness.
Founded by Kate Rancourt, we serve Atlantic Canada with a compassionate, whole-person approach to mental health. Our goal is to help you build resilience, manage stress, and feel truly supported in your journey.
I integrate scientific research with a deep understanding of the psychological impact of chronic disease, and the challenges involved in treating it. My work is grounded in evidence-based approaches, including:
BSc (Honours) in Psychology (2011) University of Alberta
PhD in Clinical Psychology (2017)
Dalhousie University
Specialization in health psychology
Residency in Health & Rehabilitation Psychology (2018)
London Health Sciences Centre
Health psychologists focus on understanding how biological, social, and psychological factors influence health and illness. As a health psychologist, I help individuals navigate the emotional and psychological challenges of managing chronic illness, as patients, caregivers, and as healthcare providers.
Part of our early work will be to identify the types of therapies that best meet your needs. But, this is a quick overview of some of the therapies and theories that I apply in my work:
Steady Hearts does not provide emergency psychological services. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please reach out to a loved one, your local crisis line, or your nearest emergency department. For resources, please click here.
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