Chronic Pain Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from Grand Valley State University and a Master of Fine Art in Painting from Virginia Commonwealth University. I seeks to provide individuals with a sense of safety, curiosity and platform for growth. Addressing experiences with trauma, chronic medical conditions, pain, depression, understanding identity, and anxiety. The primarily therapeutic processes I uses are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Somatic Experiencing (SE student with two years of training). The aim being to help individuals work on the relationship between mind, body and action.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from Grand Valley State University and a Master of Fine Art in Painting from Virginia Commonwealth University. I seeks to provide individuals with a sense of safety, curiosity and platform for growth. Addressing experiences with trauma, chronic medical conditions, pain, depression, understanding identity, and anxiety. The primarily therapeutic processes I uses are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Somatic Experiencing (SE student with two years of training). The aim being to help individuals work on the relationship between mind, body and action.
Dr Cramer is a licensed clinical psychologist with 11 years of experience as a psychotherapist. She is also a registered nurse. She is a compassionate therapist who strives to create a close and supportive relationship with each patient. She has a strong belief in treating the whole person, utilizing psychotherapy with a focus on wellness, inner peace, spirituality and cultivating a deeper awareness with ones inner self. She has experience in the treatment of a wide range of problems, trauma and stress, relationship/marital or couple problems, issues related to chronic pain, and patients in recovery from substance abuse/addiction.
Dr Cramer is a licensed clinical psychologist with 11 years of experience as a psychotherapist. She is also a registered nurse. She is a compassionate therapist who strives to create a close and supportive relationship with each patient. She has a strong belief in treating the whole person, utilizing psychotherapy with a focus on wellness, inner peace, spirituality and cultivating a deeper awareness with ones inner self. She has experience in the treatment of a wide range of problems, trauma and stress, relationship/marital or couple problems, issues related to chronic pain, and patients in recovery from substance abuse/addiction.
Hi, I'm Faith (she/her)! I specialize in working with youth and adults, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, who are navigating complex emotions and challenges with grief, anxiety, depression, identity, and chronic illness and pain. As a Registered Art Therapist and Counselor, I offer a unique, holistic approach that blends Art Therapy and counseling for healing and growth through creative expression. Together, we'll create a safe and affirming space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment.
Hi, I'm Faith (she/her)! I specialize in working with youth and adults, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, who are navigating complex emotions and challenges with grief, anxiety, depression, identity, and chronic illness and pain. As a Registered Art Therapist and Counselor, I offer a unique, holistic approach that blends Art Therapy and counseling for healing and growth through creative expression. Together, we'll create a safe and affirming space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment.
Nicholas J Comai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506 (Online Only)
Adults with anxiety, depression, PTSD, adjustment disorders (difficult life transitions), mood/emotion management struggles, and substance use disorders, paired with LGBTQIA stressors, equality/diversity advocacy, relationship challenges, young adult/professional struggles, performance pressure/stress, chronic pain/physical health conditions,and grief/loss.
I began my journey into the helping profession by directly reaching out to individuals experiencing chronic homelessness in the streets, camps, and surrounding areas of Grand Traverse County as a member of a local Street Outreach team. I continued by earning both bachelor and master degrees in clinical social work from Ferris State University, while gathering diverse experience in a range of settings and roles in the Kent County area; including community living supports, family case management, inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, crisis residential, home-based family therapy, outpatient individual therapy, and private practice.
Adults with anxiety, depression, PTSD, adjustment disorders (difficult life transitions), mood/emotion management struggles, and substance use disorders, paired with LGBTQIA stressors, equality/diversity advocacy, relationship challenges, young adult/professional struggles, performance pressure/stress, chronic pain/physical health conditions,and grief/loss.
I began my journey into the helping profession by directly reaching out to individuals experiencing chronic homelessness in the streets, camps, and surrounding areas of Grand Traverse County as a member of a local Street Outreach team. I continued by earning both bachelor and master degrees in clinical social work from Ferris State University, while gathering diverse experience in a range of settings and roles in the Kent County area; including community living supports, family case management, inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, crisis residential, home-based family therapy, outpatient individual therapy, and private practice.
Trista Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW , CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Hey there! I know that therapy can feel intimidating. My goal is to come alongside and partner with you while we work through the different pains that life can bring us. I have experience working with individuals going through various struggles: depression, anxiety, relational conflict, faith issues, substance use, stress, grief, chronic pain, life transitions, self esteem. My approach to therapy is person centered and based on individual needs and goals. I will take time to develop a relationship with you to build trust and have this be a safe space.
Hey there! I know that therapy can feel intimidating. My goal is to come alongside and partner with you while we work through the different pains that life can bring us. I have experience working with individuals going through various struggles: depression, anxiety, relational conflict, faith issues, substance use, stress, grief, chronic pain, life transitions, self esteem. My approach to therapy is person centered and based on individual needs and goals. I will take time to develop a relationship with you to build trust and have this be a safe space.
Jennifer DiGennaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Being at war with yourself and your body is exhausting. Maybe it started with your first diet in your teens or maybe it didn't start until later in life dealing with chronic pain or illness, or something else. You are sick of suffering and feeling like your body is an endless problem to be solved. It is hard to feel hopeful. Psychotherapy with me can help you deepen self-trust, self-care and self-acceptance. I have specialized training in trauma-informed approaches, including EMDR and Body Trust® which inform my holistic approach. I can support you to work through your past, honor your present and envision your future.
Being at war with yourself and your body is exhausting. Maybe it started with your first diet in your teens or maybe it didn't start until later in life dealing with chronic pain or illness, or something else. You are sick of suffering and feeling like your body is an endless problem to be solved. It is hard to feel hopeful. Psychotherapy with me can help you deepen self-trust, self-care and self-acceptance. I have specialized training in trauma-informed approaches, including EMDR and Body Trust® which inform my holistic approach. I can support you to work through your past, honor your present and envision your future.
Koehn has received advanced training in psychological treatment for patients with chronic pain.
Dr. Peter Koehn is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience and extensive training in research. He has worked both in private practice and with the Veteran's Administration (retiring from the latter in 2020). Dr. Koehn finds much reward in treating individuals with Chronic Pain, Depression and Anxiety with evidence-based approaches, adhering closely to scientific model in working with her patients. He has also been affected by chronic pain, having spent several years suffering pain and is happy to help others undergoing stress related to this diagnosis.
Koehn has received advanced training in psychological treatment for patients with chronic pain.
Dr. Peter Koehn is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience and extensive training in research. He has worked both in private practice and with the Veteran's Administration (retiring from the latter in 2020). Dr. Koehn finds much reward in treating individuals with Chronic Pain, Depression and Anxiety with evidence-based approaches, adhering closely to scientific model in working with her patients. He has also been affected by chronic pain, having spent several years suffering pain and is happy to help others undergoing stress related to this diagnosis.
You can release the pain and move forward to achieve all your goals.
Life can throw us some curve balls. We can have extended stress and trauma that leads to depression and anxiety. There is treatment available to assist with these issues. Therapy can also relieve and possibly eliminate some somatic issues that include; chronic pain, migraines, and fatigue that often accompanies stress. Those who also suffer from traumatic injuries who now have chronic pain or phantom pain could benefit from EMDR therapy. First Responders and those in helping professions such as Teachers, Nurses, Doctors, and Therapists (To name just a few) can experience stress from being on the job. There is hope and healing!
You can release the pain and move forward to achieve all your goals.
Life can throw us some curve balls. We can have extended stress and trauma that leads to depression and anxiety. There is treatment available to assist with these issues. Therapy can also relieve and possibly eliminate some somatic issues that include; chronic pain, migraines, and fatigue that often accompanies stress. Those who also suffer from traumatic injuries who now have chronic pain or phantom pain could benefit from EMDR therapy. First Responders and those in helping professions such as Teachers, Nurses, Doctors, and Therapists (To name just a few) can experience stress from being on the job. There is hope and healing!
Justine E. Braford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
As a certified Sex Therapist, I work with many client issues and have a special interest in sexual dysfunction which includes: couples work, low libido, mismatched desire, pelvic pain disorders, affair recovery, issues of gender or sexual orientation, out-of-control sexual behaviors, and work with sexual abuse survivors.
*Currently CLOSED to new patients. Please email for referral options* I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Michigan State University and a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan with a speciality in Interpersonal Practice and Health. I completed my post-Graduate certificate in Sexual Health and Sex education at the University of Michigan and am a fully AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
As a certified Sex Therapist, I work with many client issues and have a special interest in sexual dysfunction which includes: couples work, low libido, mismatched desire, pelvic pain disorders, affair recovery, issues of gender or sexual orientation, out-of-control sexual behaviors, and work with sexual abuse survivors.
*Currently CLOSED to new patients. Please email for referral options* I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Michigan State University and a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan with a speciality in Interpersonal Practice and Health. I completed my post-Graduate certificate in Sexual Health and Sex education at the University of Michigan and am a fully AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
Rachel J. Hipp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MA, AcHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
There is hope and healing waiting for you! It's time to uncover the patterns that are holding you back from reaching your highest potential and find healing at the root cause of your pain.
Flipping through the latest Netflix releases, you search endlessly for your next "binge-worthy" series to numb you out for the rest of the weekend. This has been your default for far too long. You know all of the things you are “supposed” to be doing. You’ve tried all the self-help tricks, but you feel stuck in your head and unable to move forward in your life. You’ve had glimmers of the life you want before, but it always seems just out of reach.
There is hope and healing waiting for you! It's time to uncover the patterns that are holding you back from reaching your highest potential and find healing at the root cause of your pain.
Flipping through the latest Netflix releases, you search endlessly for your next "binge-worthy" series to numb you out for the rest of the weekend. This has been your default for far too long. You know all of the things you are “supposed” to be doing. You’ve tried all the self-help tricks, but you feel stuck in your head and unable to move forward in your life. You’ve had glimmers of the life you want before, but it always seems just out of reach.
Janet Claire Goldner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I work with both couples and adults including those experiencing relationship stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, challenging life transitions, chronic illness as well as those struggling with the issues surrounding adoption.
As my favorite author Brene’ Brown said “You don’t have to go it alone, no one was meant to”. Life can be messy and the challenges and transitions that we all must travel through can be very burdensome. I’m here to help. I’m here to support. I’m here to facilitate you truly seeing the courage and strength inside. Cultivate calm- it may be easier than you think!
I work with both couples and adults including those experiencing relationship stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, challenging life transitions, chronic illness as well as those struggling with the issues surrounding adoption.
As my favorite author Brene’ Brown said “You don’t have to go it alone, no one was meant to”. Life can be messy and the challenges and transitions that we all must travel through can be very burdensome. I’m here to help. I’m here to support. I’m here to facilitate you truly seeing the courage and strength inside. Cultivate calm- it may be easier than you think!
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Do you struggle to get out of bed each day due to pain or anxiety? Do you find it difficult to leave your home to participate in social events? Does chronic illness, pain or anxiety keep you from thriving not just surviving? Long term pain, illness, and anxiety can lead to more isolation more depression and this becomes the cycle of your life. That is where I come in; I believe my role is to help you sort through the barriers that keep you stuck. Together we can explore your connection with your mind, body and spirit so you can become comfortable with who you are.
Do you struggle to get out of bed each day due to pain or anxiety? Do you find it difficult to leave your home to participate in social events? Does chronic illness, pain or anxiety keep you from thriving not just surviving? Long term pain, illness, and anxiety can lead to more isolation more depression and this becomes the cycle of your life. That is where I come in; I believe my role is to help you sort through the barriers that keep you stuck. Together we can explore your connection with your mind, body and spirit so you can become comfortable with who you are.
When you're struggling to find your way through emotional pain, choosing the right psychotherapist can be confusing. You want to find someone you can trust. You want that person to listen without judging and offer space for healing. The professional relationship between you and your psychotherapist should be based on mutual respect, genuineness, and healthy boundaries. In such a relationship, you can develop insight and understanding, as well as learn coping strategies to help relieve your pain.
When you're struggling to find your way through emotional pain, choosing the right psychotherapist can be confusing. You want to find someone you can trust. You want that person to listen without judging and offer space for healing. The professional relationship between you and your psychotherapist should be based on mutual respect, genuineness, and healthy boundaries. In such a relationship, you can develop insight and understanding, as well as learn coping strategies to help relieve your pain.
With over 20 years of experience working in the mental health field, I have extensive training and experience working with individuals to manage symptoms of anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, and PTSD. Often these symptoms can be overwhelming and cause additional difficulties with sleep disturbance and disordered eating leading to increased illness and pain related conditions. Working together we can discover your strengths, build upon existing skills while adding new ones, and find livable and workable solutions for a more inspired future.
With over 20 years of experience working in the mental health field, I have extensive training and experience working with individuals to manage symptoms of anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, and PTSD. Often these symptoms can be overwhelming and cause additional difficulties with sleep disturbance and disordered eating leading to increased illness and pain related conditions. Working together we can discover your strengths, build upon existing skills while adding new ones, and find livable and workable solutions for a more inspired future.
Michelle Muenzenmeyer
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Do you find yourself setting the same goals without achieving them? In the pain and suffering, there is opportunity for growth and change. You've taken a step forward by looking into treatment, congratulations! I offer a trusting and compassionate approach to allow my clients to feel vulnerable with their struggles. I have worked with clients who have suffered with depression, grief, relationship issues, anxiety, life stage changes, obesity, binge eating and more. At the end of treatment, some clients report feeling more resilient with painful emotions which leads to healthier relationships and a more fulfilling life.
Do you find yourself setting the same goals without achieving them? In the pain and suffering, there is opportunity for growth and change. You've taken a step forward by looking into treatment, congratulations! I offer a trusting and compassionate approach to allow my clients to feel vulnerable with their struggles. I have worked with clients who have suffered with depression, grief, relationship issues, anxiety, life stage changes, obesity, binge eating and more. At the end of treatment, some clients report feeling more resilient with painful emotions which leads to healthier relationships and a more fulfilling life.
Kara Pettinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546 (Online Only)
I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan in 2011 and have extensive experience treating individuals with chronic health conditions, infertility and perinatal loss, perinatal mood disorders, pelvic pain, depression, anxiety, conflict in relationships, life and career transitions, healthcare clinicians, and corporate leaders.
First of all - I am so glad you are here. Reaching out for support can feel vulnerable and uncomfortable, but it's when we lean into those places of discomfort that growth can be found. I am inspired by IFS, mindfulness, CBT, self-compassion, and the work around shame and vulnerability and infuse each modality into my therapeutic work. I also value integrating the coaching philosophy into my therapeutic approach and I ultimately believe in the power of supporting each individual as a whole, unique person to create space for healing and overall well-being.
I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan in 2011 and have extensive experience treating individuals with chronic health conditions, infertility and perinatal loss, perinatal mood disorders, pelvic pain, depression, anxiety, conflict in relationships, life and career transitions, healthcare clinicians, and corporate leaders.
First of all - I am so glad you are here. Reaching out for support can feel vulnerable and uncomfortable, but it's when we lean into those places of discomfort that growth can be found. I am inspired by IFS, mindfulness, CBT, self-compassion, and the work around shame and vulnerability and infuse each modality into my therapeutic work. I also value integrating the coaching philosophy into my therapeutic approach and I ultimately believe in the power of supporting each individual as a whole, unique person to create space for healing and overall well-being.
In addition to anxiety, depression, trauma, & low self-esteem, I am passionate about working with those who have chronic pain conditions.
Do you struggle with anxiety? Maybe your heart races, you're experiencing intrusive thoughts, or struggling with low self-esteem? Do you ever find yourself depressed or feeling inadequate? Maybe you're feeling defeated & can't vocalize the discomfort you have, but you know you feel stuck. It can be exhausting trying to navigate such powerful emotions on your own. In therapy, I use a collaborative approach as I believe you already have the internal resources needed for healing, though it may be hidden under layers of doubt or self-protection. It's transformative to explore these layers and rewrite the narrative you have of yourself!
In addition to anxiety, depression, trauma, & low self-esteem, I am passionate about working with those who have chronic pain conditions.
Do you struggle with anxiety? Maybe your heart races, you're experiencing intrusive thoughts, or struggling with low self-esteem? Do you ever find yourself depressed or feeling inadequate? Maybe you're feeling defeated & can't vocalize the discomfort you have, but you know you feel stuck. It can be exhausting trying to navigate such powerful emotions on your own. In therapy, I use a collaborative approach as I believe you already have the internal resources needed for healing, though it may be hidden under layers of doubt or self-protection. It's transformative to explore these layers and rewrite the narrative you have of yourself!
Shannon Bruin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546 (Online Only)
Shannon believes that laughter and joy aide in the therapeutic process and values use of a variety of therapeutic interventions in order to engage beauty and pain together.
Shannon is bilingual in Spanish and earned her Bachelors Degree in Psychology from Michigan State University and her Masters Degree in Social Work and Masters Degree in Public Administration from Grand Valley State University. She has over 12 years of experience working from a trauma-informed perspective with youth and adults.
Shannon believes that laughter and joy aide in the therapeutic process and values use of a variety of therapeutic interventions in order to engage beauty and pain together.
Shannon is bilingual in Spanish and earned her Bachelors Degree in Psychology from Michigan State University and her Masters Degree in Social Work and Masters Degree in Public Administration from Grand Valley State University. She has over 12 years of experience working from a trauma-informed perspective with youth and adults.
I have over 30 years of experience providing psychological services and have been employed in a number of different settings, including: psychiatry, primary care medicine, bariatric surgery, chronic pain and rehabilitation, hospital, and church settings.
I thoughtfully use cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) and a blend of other therapeutic approaches and your spiritual beliefs (when desired) to help you improve your thoughts, behaviors, emotions, relationships, and quality of life. I particularly enjoy working with health-related issues, along with anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns.
I have over 30 years of experience providing psychological services and have been employed in a number of different settings, including: psychiatry, primary care medicine, bariatric surgery, chronic pain and rehabilitation, hospital, and church settings.
I thoughtfully use cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) and a blend of other therapeutic approaches and your spiritual beliefs (when desired) to help you improve your thoughts, behaviors, emotions, relationships, and quality of life. I particularly enjoy working with health-related issues, along with anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns.
Shannon Wendling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a variety of concerns including gender identity, chronic pain, chronic illness, trauma, self-esteem, grief and loss, ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
I acknowledge that making the decision to pursue therapy can be a really big step. Dedicating time and effort toward improving mental wellbeing and focusing on oneself is not an easy task. It is for this reason that I strive to provide a safe, compassionate, and nurturing environment in which clients can feel comfortable leaning into their vulnerabilities. I am dedicated to ensuring that anybody who visits my office feels seen, heard, and validated.
I work with a variety of concerns including gender identity, chronic pain, chronic illness, trauma, self-esteem, grief and loss, ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
I acknowledge that making the decision to pursue therapy can be a really big step. Dedicating time and effort toward improving mental wellbeing and focusing on oneself is not an easy task. It is for this reason that I strive to provide a safe, compassionate, and nurturing environment in which clients can feel comfortable leaning into their vulnerabilities. I am dedicated to ensuring that anybody who visits my office feels seen, heard, and validated.
See more therapy options for Grand Rapids
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Grand Rapids
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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.