Chronic Pain Therapists in Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Kimberly Crickette, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kimberly Crickette
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90064
pain, acquired brain injuries, functional somatic conditions, neurological disorders).
Are you living with an invisible illness? Have you felt invalidated by your medical providers? Do you suffer from low energy, difficulty concentrating, or do you have an overall sense of poor health? Are you fed up with not being able to live life the way you would like? At re+active therapy and wellness, we understand the impact of living with invisible and/or chronic illnesses, and believe in the power of teamwork and a holistic approach to wellness.
pain, acquired brain injuries, functional somatic conditions, neurological disorders).
Are you living with an invisible illness? Have you felt invalidated by your medical providers? Do you suffer from low energy, difficulty concentrating, or do you have an overall sense of poor health? Are you fed up with not being able to live life the way you would like? At re+active therapy and wellness, we understand the impact of living with invisible and/or chronic illnesses, and believe in the power of teamwork and a holistic approach to wellness.
(818) 629-0137 View (818) 629-0137
Photo of Dr. Mike Pugh, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Mike Pugh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90064
Together, we will process the unique impact of living with chronic illness and/or disability.
Do you have a medical diagnosis impacting your quality of life or relationships? Do you ever struggle with feeling invalidated or stigmatized as a result of your experiences in the healthcare system? I am a rehabilitation psychologist specializing in treating individuals with neurological and health conditions, including, but not limited to chronic pain, brain injuries, dizziness, movement disorders, functional conditions, and chronic neurological illness.
Together, we will process the unique impact of living with chronic illness and/or disability.
Do you have a medical diagnosis impacting your quality of life or relationships? Do you ever struggle with feeling invalidated or stigmatized as a result of your experiences in the healthcare system? I am a rehabilitation psychologist specializing in treating individuals with neurological and health conditions, including, but not limited to chronic pain, brain injuries, dizziness, movement disorders, functional conditions, and chronic neurological illness.
(310) 356-0040 View (310) 356-0040
Photo of Chelsea Allyn Moyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea Allyn Moyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
I deeply believe in the healing process and an individual's innate capacity for transformation. With over a decade of experience working as a clinical therapist, I believe it's not about working harder but working smarter. Our primary goal is to identify the blocks (namely old patterns/habits, limiting beliefs, patterns of avoidance, etc.) that interfere with your brain and body's natural state of well-being. This can show up as addictions, chronic pain, anxiety, or depression. Whatever you're struggling with right now, your system desires its natural state of equilibrium and will guide us towards healing.
I deeply believe in the healing process and an individual's innate capacity for transformation. With over a decade of experience working as a clinical therapist, I believe it's not about working harder but working smarter. Our primary goal is to identify the blocks (namely old patterns/habits, limiting beliefs, patterns of avoidance, etc.) that interfere with your brain and body's natural state of well-being. This can show up as addictions, chronic pain, anxiety, or depression. Whatever you're struggling with right now, your system desires its natural state of equilibrium and will guide us towards healing.
(310) 634-1290 View (310) 634-1290
Photo of Elaine Skoulas, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elaine Skoulas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I use a combination of approaches from psychodynamic therapy, somatic interventions, EMDR, and mindfulness to help relieve distress, pain, and anxiety.
You’ve come so far, but something is still holding you back from living the life you truly want. Despite all you've learned about yourself and your relationships, the same patterns keep repeating. Past trauma doesn’t have to keep casting a shadow over your present. If you’re someone who always puts others first, it’s time to create space just for you. Reaching out is a powerful first step in taking care of yourself—whether you're navigating life with chronic pain, anxiety, or trauma. I'm here to support you, offering warmth and kindness every step of the way.
I use a combination of approaches from psychodynamic therapy, somatic interventions, EMDR, and mindfulness to help relieve distress, pain, and anxiety.
You’ve come so far, but something is still holding you back from living the life you truly want. Despite all you've learned about yourself and your relationships, the same patterns keep repeating. Past trauma doesn’t have to keep casting a shadow over your present. If you’re someone who always puts others first, it’s time to create space just for you. Reaching out is a powerful first step in taking care of yourself—whether you're navigating life with chronic pain, anxiety, or trauma. I'm here to support you, offering warmth and kindness every step of the way.
(818) 350-5204 View (818) 350-5204
Photo of Alyce Botwinick, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyce Botwinick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck in one or more aspects of your life? Perhaps you would like to feel more connection in your relationships and at work. Sometimes things may feel so overwhelming, we lose our direction, feel anxious, experience emotional and physical pain, and don't sleep well. It's easy to get caught up in the way we tell our story, shaping habits and patterns around the roles we play.
Do you feel stuck in one or more aspects of your life? Perhaps you would like to feel more connection in your relationships and at work. Sometimes things may feel so overwhelming, we lose our direction, feel anxious, experience emotional and physical pain, and don't sleep well. It's easy to get caught up in the way we tell our story, shaping habits and patterns around the roles we play.
(424) 331-1738 View (424) 331-1738
Photo of Dr. Sarah DeMarco, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah DeMarco
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Chronic pain/chronic illness/autoimmune: No matter where you are in your wellness journey, we address your symptoms from a mind-body approach to help manage and reduce the frequency and/or intensity of your symptoms.
Dr. Sarah DeMarco is a Licensed Psychologist in CA, NJ, & NY. Therapy: Using a holistic approach, we will work collaboratively to help you manage burnout, reduce fear and anxiety, perfectionism, or navigating life transitions. Empowerment, self-compassion, and mindfulness will be a foundational aspect of our work. Creating strong and healthy habits and means of coping can be highly supportive for a variety of difficult life experiences and changes.
Chronic pain/chronic illness/autoimmune: No matter where you are in your wellness journey, we address your symptoms from a mind-body approach to help manage and reduce the frequency and/or intensity of your symptoms.
Dr. Sarah DeMarco is a Licensed Psychologist in CA, NJ, & NY. Therapy: Using a holistic approach, we will work collaboratively to help you manage burnout, reduce fear and anxiety, perfectionism, or navigating life transitions. Empowerment, self-compassion, and mindfulness will be a foundational aspect of our work. Creating strong and healthy habits and means of coping can be highly supportive for a variety of difficult life experiences and changes.
(213) 263-6429 View (213) 263-6429
Photo of Joshua Landsburg, MSW, ASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua Landsburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90064
I am a clinician trained in many evidence based treatments, including pain reprocessing therapy, psychodynamic, CBT, somatic and integrative/holistic therapies.
Are you ready to step into a world where support goes beyond just physical or emotional pain, where every aspect of who you are is celebrated and embraced? Picture a nonjudgmental space where we talk about everything from navigating relationships to understanding yourself better. As a therapist who works with men, couples, and individuals of many ages and backgrounds, including clients with chronic pain, autism, ADHD, or neurodiversity, I'm here to be your guide on this incredible journey of self-discovery and growth. No matter who you are or what you're going through, I'm here to provide you with a warm welcome and a listening ear.
I am a clinician trained in many evidence based treatments, including pain reprocessing therapy, psychodynamic, CBT, somatic and integrative/holistic therapies.
Are you ready to step into a world where support goes beyond just physical or emotional pain, where every aspect of who you are is celebrated and embraced? Picture a nonjudgmental space where we talk about everything from navigating relationships to understanding yourself better. As a therapist who works with men, couples, and individuals of many ages and backgrounds, including clients with chronic pain, autism, ADHD, or neurodiversity, I'm here to be your guide on this incredible journey of self-discovery and growth. No matter who you are or what you're going through, I'm here to provide you with a warm welcome and a listening ear.
(424) 667-6476 View (424) 667-6476
Photo of Casey Taslitz Birnbaum Certified Emdr Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Casey Taslitz Birnbaum Certified Emdr Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90064
Hi, I am Casey! I would love to help you lead a more connected, meaningful and fulfilled life. I know looking for a therapist can be overwhelming and exhausting during a time where you may be feeling like you need additional support. While working with clients, I provide warmth and containment as they learn to heal from trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, phase of life issues or whatever may bring them into my office.
Hi, I am Casey! I would love to help you lead a more connected, meaningful and fulfilled life. I know looking for a therapist can be overwhelming and exhausting during a time where you may be feeling like you need additional support. While working with clients, I provide warmth and containment as they learn to heal from trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, phase of life issues or whatever may bring them into my office.
(424) 738-5368 View (424) 738-5368
Photo of Christine Archer | Pain Reprocessing Therapy, LPCC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Archer | Pain Reprocessing Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
My work is rooted in Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Mindfulness and Self-Compassion, Internal Family Systems and Therapeutic Writing.
I help high-achieving, do-it-all women overcome chronic pain, anxiety and burnout to live a more joyful and restful life. Often, our bodies give us cues that it’s time to slow down while our minds push us to keep going. We have learned that expectations, responsibilities and productivity take priority over our own care and needs. Maybe you have tried to power through your body’s cues over and over again only to feel stuck, exhausted, and unsure of how to find relief. Our work together will empower you to come back to yourself, to tend to your body and nervous system and to feel more present, connected and at ease.
My work is rooted in Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Mindfulness and Self-Compassion, Internal Family Systems and Therapeutic Writing.
I help high-achieving, do-it-all women overcome chronic pain, anxiety and burnout to live a more joyful and restful life. Often, our bodies give us cues that it’s time to slow down while our minds push us to keep going. We have learned that expectations, responsibilities and productivity take priority over our own care and needs. Maybe you have tried to power through your body’s cues over and over again only to feel stuck, exhausted, and unsure of how to find relief. Our work together will empower you to come back to yourself, to tend to your body and nervous system and to feel more present, connected and at ease.
(530) 454-8523 View (530) 454-8523
Photo of Hannah Khoddam, PhD, MA, MSc, Psychologist
Hannah Khoddam
Psychologist, PhD, MA, MSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
I specialize in treating individuals with physical health difficulties, such as chronic pain, illness, or insomnia that may contribute to one’s emotional well-being.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families who may be struggling with difficulties related to the intersection between physical and mental health. I specialize in evidence-based treatment and have extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and mindfulness-based approaches. I see therapy as a way to utilize these evidence-based treatments to explore whatever may be keeping you stuck in the habits, patterns, or situations that may no longer be serving you and learning skills to help you overcome these circumstances.
I specialize in treating individuals with physical health difficulties, such as chronic pain, illness, or insomnia that may contribute to one’s emotional well-being.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families who may be struggling with difficulties related to the intersection between physical and mental health. I specialize in evidence-based treatment and have extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and mindfulness-based approaches. I see therapy as a way to utilize these evidence-based treatments to explore whatever may be keeping you stuck in the habits, patterns, or situations that may no longer be serving you and learning skills to help you overcome these circumstances.
(424) 408-1641 View (424) 408-1641
Photo of Dr. Doug Polster, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Doug Polster
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90064
I specialize in treatment of anxiety, with a focus on high performers (athletes, executives, entrepreneurs) as well as individuals with chronic pain (e.
My clients come to me for practical, tangible guidance and support on how to overcome the challenges they face. I use an evidenced based approach, combining Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, that helps clients regain control of their lives, reduce unhelpful racing thoughts, and develop resiliency and confidence. Unlike traditional "talk therapy," where much your time is spent discussing vague concepts, my approach is to create realistic, attainable solutions and help you identify the roadmap to achieve them. About half of my practice involves working with teens/young adults and half with adults.
I specialize in treatment of anxiety, with a focus on high performers (athletes, executives, entrepreneurs) as well as individuals with chronic pain (e.
My clients come to me for practical, tangible guidance and support on how to overcome the challenges they face. I use an evidenced based approach, combining Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, that helps clients regain control of their lives, reduce unhelpful racing thoughts, and develop resiliency and confidence. Unlike traditional "talk therapy," where much your time is spent discussing vague concepts, my approach is to create realistic, attainable solutions and help you identify the roadmap to achieve them. About half of my practice involves working with teens/young adults and half with adults.
(424) 384-1533 View (424) 384-1533
Photo of Giselle Gomez, PsyD
Giselle Gomez
Registered Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
I specialize in evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to address various concerns, such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and chronic pain.
I strive to provide a warm, supportive, and safe environment so you feel comfortable being your most authentic self. I work with people from diverse backgrounds and ensure we make space to incorporate your values and identities into your treatment goals. I pride myself on providing the most effective treatments for your presenting concerns. Whether it be symptom relief, behavior change, learning healthy communication and positive coping skills, processing grief, or improving your overall quality of life, we can work together to create a personalized plan in line with what you hope to gain from treatment.
I specialize in evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to address various concerns, such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and chronic pain.
I strive to provide a warm, supportive, and safe environment so you feel comfortable being your most authentic self. I work with people from diverse backgrounds and ensure we make space to incorporate your values and identities into your treatment goals. I pride myself on providing the most effective treatments for your presenting concerns. Whether it be symptom relief, behavior change, learning healthy communication and positive coping skills, processing grief, or improving your overall quality of life, we can work together to create a personalized plan in line with what you hope to gain from treatment.
(626) 631-6347 View (626) 631-6347
Photo of Colleen Perry, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Colleen Perry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Colleen Perry, M.F.T., is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California (MFC38937).Most people come to see a therapist because they are in emotional pain, physical pain, or both, as one often creates the other. I understand how vulnerable this can make you feel, so I am committed to giving my full attention and respect to the unique experience of each client. It is for this reason that I maintain a small “boutique” practice, where I listen to what you want for your life and together we create a course of treatment that meets your goals and needs.
Colleen Perry, M.F.T., is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California (MFC38937).Most people come to see a therapist because they are in emotional pain, physical pain, or both, as one often creates the other. I understand how vulnerable this can make you feel, so I am committed to giving my full attention and respect to the unique experience of each client. It is for this reason that I maintain a small “boutique” practice, where I listen to what you want for your life and together we create a course of treatment that meets your goals and needs.
(424) 286-9203 View (424) 286-9203
Photo of Hannah Bystritsky Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Bystritsky Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
My clinical focus is on treating individuals with chronic pain/ illness and health anxiety.
Life is filled with challenges that can can sometimes feel like too much for one person to manage on their own. If you’re struggling or feeling stuck and overwhelmed you may also be feeling alone. I’m here to walk along side you and help you explore what is underneath. With a compassionate and evidence-based approach, I provide an individualized treatment plan designed to address each person's unique symptoms and needs. My practice focuses on creating a safe and non-judgemental space to help you work towards reaching your goals.
My clinical focus is on treating individuals with chronic pain/ illness and health anxiety.
Life is filled with challenges that can can sometimes feel like too much for one person to manage on their own. If you’re struggling or feeling stuck and overwhelmed you may also be feeling alone. I’m here to walk along side you and help you explore what is underneath. With a compassionate and evidence-based approach, I provide an individualized treatment plan designed to address each person's unique symptoms and needs. My practice focuses on creating a safe and non-judgemental space to help you work towards reaching your goals.
(310) 929-6279 View (310) 929-6279
Photo of Amanda B Feinstein, PhD, Psychologist
Amanda B Feinstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
As a person living with a chronic illness since adolescence, I personally understand what it takes to thrive and still live a fulfilling, meaningful and happy life despite the ups and downs of a health journey.
Living with chronic pain or a chronic illness can be challenging. But finding the right support to help you on your journey can be transformative. I worked for 9 years in the Pediatric Pain Management Clinic at Stanford University School of Medicine teaching patients coping skills for better managing pain and improving function. Skills I teach typically align with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnosis, and Mindfulness Based interventions. I also have training in EMDR to address trauma, and have specific focus in Medical Trauma. In addition to working with individuals with medical conditions, I also treat anxiety and depression.
As a person living with a chronic illness since adolescence, I personally understand what it takes to thrive and still live a fulfilling, meaningful and happy life despite the ups and downs of a health journey.
Living with chronic pain or a chronic illness can be challenging. But finding the right support to help you on your journey can be transformative. I worked for 9 years in the Pediatric Pain Management Clinic at Stanford University School of Medicine teaching patients coping skills for better managing pain and improving function. Skills I teach typically align with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnosis, and Mindfulness Based interventions. I also have training in EMDR to address trauma, and have specific focus in Medical Trauma. In addition to working with individuals with medical conditions, I also treat anxiety and depression.
(650) 539-6596 View (650) 539-6596
Photo of David E Bresler, PhD, LAC, DiplAc, NCCAOM, AAPM, Psychologist
David E Bresler
Psychologist, PhD, LAC, DiplAc, NCCAOM, AAPM
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I was Executive Director of the UCLA Pain Control Unit and a professor in the UCLA Medical, Dental Schools and Psychology Department.
My practice focuses on helping individuals, couples, and families who are suffering from emotional or physical pain or the aftereffects of trauma. We help them resolve the traumatic experience, as well as its consequences (e.g. physical pain, stress, disability, depression, anxiety, insomnia, medication dependence, isolation, etc.) Although many of our patients have not responded well to prior therapies, we've had outstanding success in helping them move from feeling a severe loss to finding a new and positive beginning. We love to work with people who are ready to change and eager to learn how to do it.
I was Executive Director of the UCLA Pain Control Unit and a professor in the UCLA Medical, Dental Schools and Psychology Department.
My practice focuses on helping individuals, couples, and families who are suffering from emotional or physical pain or the aftereffects of trauma. We help them resolve the traumatic experience, as well as its consequences (e.g. physical pain, stress, disability, depression, anxiety, insomnia, medication dependence, isolation, etc.) Although many of our patients have not responded well to prior therapies, we've had outstanding success in helping them move from feeling a severe loss to finding a new and positive beginning. We love to work with people who are ready to change and eager to learn how to do it.
(562) 250-5763 View (562) 250-5763
Photo of Alina Gorgorian, PhD, Psychologist
Alina Gorgorian
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90064
I believe in utilizing methods that have been researched and proven to work. I aim to immediately target struggles and provide concrete tools to help my clients help themselves. My goal is to help minimize their pain and help them build the kind of lives they are looking for, in line with both their goals and their values, by approaching therapy scientifically and compassionately. I believe therapy works within a warm, safe, non-judgmental, and collaborative space and am dedicated to creating this space, and utilizing it as the foundation of our work together.
I believe in utilizing methods that have been researched and proven to work. I aim to immediately target struggles and provide concrete tools to help my clients help themselves. My goal is to help minimize their pain and help them build the kind of lives they are looking for, in line with both their goals and their values, by approaching therapy scientifically and compassionately. I believe therapy works within a warm, safe, non-judgmental, and collaborative space and am dedicated to creating this space, and utilizing it as the foundation of our work together.
(213) 263-5646 View (213) 263-5646
Photo of Christa Scholtz, PhD, Psychologist
Christa Scholtz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Sometimes life is too difficult to navigate on your own. Psychotherapy is one of the most powerful tools to bring healing and transformation to your life, and choosing to pursue it is brave. You might be seeking therapy to decrease anxiety or depression, heal from a trauma, improve your relationships, rid yourself of chronic pain, or navigate school with ADHD or a learning disability. You also might be seeking therapy on behalf of your child or your family. Regardless of what leads you to therapy, I understand the importance of finding a therapist that is the right fit.
Sometimes life is too difficult to navigate on your own. Psychotherapy is one of the most powerful tools to bring healing and transformation to your life, and choosing to pursue it is brave. You might be seeking therapy to decrease anxiety or depression, heal from a trauma, improve your relationships, rid yourself of chronic pain, or navigate school with ADHD or a learning disability. You also might be seeking therapy on behalf of your child or your family. Regardless of what leads you to therapy, I understand the importance of finding a therapist that is the right fit.
(424) 226-5594 View (424) 226-5594
Photo of Stephanie Colantonio, MD
Stephanie Colantonio
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
So many of our illnesses can improve by slowing down, connecting, and treating ourselves with more love and kindness.
I am a board certified medical doctor in Los Angeles offering integrative care to young adults and adolescents, with a focus on reproductive health. We work together as a team to examine the root cause of illness. This means learning who you are as a whole person - body, spirit, and mind. I combine conventional medicine with a focus on nutrition, mind-body medicine, and herbalism. Prescriptions are used as appropriate, but not as bandaids to mask problems. We are excited to announce that we are now offering ketamine assisted psychotherapy to patients who are interested, as part of a holistic approach to medicine.
So many of our illnesses can improve by slowing down, connecting, and treating ourselves with more love and kindness.
I am a board certified medical doctor in Los Angeles offering integrative care to young adults and adolescents, with a focus on reproductive health. We work together as a team to examine the root cause of illness. This means learning who you are as a whole person - body, spirit, and mind. I combine conventional medicine with a focus on nutrition, mind-body medicine, and herbalism. Prescriptions are used as appropriate, but not as bandaids to mask problems. We are excited to announce that we are now offering ketamine assisted psychotherapy to patients who are interested, as part of a holistic approach to medicine.
(818) 350-5325 View (818) 350-5325
Photo of Steven Bradshaw, LMFT, SEP, CGP, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Steven Bradshaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SEP, CGP, MA
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Sawtelle, Los Angeles, CA 90025
I work with high-potential, creative and sensitive beings, who may feel stuck and burned out. I've discovered personally how somatic therapy revitalizes the organism and resolves psychological and health issues at the source. In particular it can shift anxiety, chronic pain, depression, loneliness, and imposter syndrome. It works to restore the nervous system to a state of healthy regulation, energy, flow and feeling at home in your body. This provides a foundation of authentic self-esteem that becomes the basis for a meaningful career and a network of healthy relationships—a life that feels great on the inside.
I work with high-potential, creative and sensitive beings, who may feel stuck and burned out. I've discovered personally how somatic therapy revitalizes the organism and resolves psychological and health issues at the source. In particular it can shift anxiety, chronic pain, depression, loneliness, and imposter syndrome. It works to restore the nervous system to a state of healthy regulation, energy, flow and feeling at home in your body. This provides a foundation of authentic self-esteem that becomes the basis for a meaningful career and a network of healthy relationships—a life that feels great on the inside.
(424) 378-5336 View (424) 378-5336

See more therapy options for Sawtelle, Los Angeles

Chronic Pain Therapists

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.