Photo of Jo Anne Sheehan Spears, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jo Anne Sheehan Spears
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204
I also have expertise in EMDR, emotional recovery from sexual assault, incest, chronic illness, adoption issues and HIV+.
Life is too short to live in pain, fear or without joy. I love to help clients resolve issues, improve relationships and find the joy in their life. If you are ready to work to discover why you keep repeating the same problems or situations or you struggle with feeling down or anxious, then I am ready to help you find solutions.
I also have expertise in EMDR, emotional recovery from sexual assault, incest, chronic illness, adoption issues and HIV+.
Life is too short to live in pain, fear or without joy. I love to help clients resolve issues, improve relationships and find the joy in their life. If you are ready to work to discover why you keep repeating the same problems or situations or you struggle with feeling down or anxious, then I am ready to help you find solutions.
(214) 296-0101 View (214) 296-0101
Photo of Jim D Murphy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jim D Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
As a two-time cancer survivor, the spouse of a chronic pain "thriver", and a marriage and family therapist, I can help you find hope, learn to feel understood by your medical providers - and family members - and grow to see life as more than just your health challenges.
Are you overwhelmed with your chronic pain, a chronic illness, or other health challenges and aren't sure if anyone understands your concerns? Do you feel like a burden to your family and friends? Consider getting an ally who can help you find hope and more effectively manage your situation.
As a two-time cancer survivor, the spouse of a chronic pain "thriver", and a marriage and family therapist, I can help you find hope, learn to feel understood by your medical providers - and family members - and grow to see life as more than just your health challenges.
Are you overwhelmed with your chronic pain, a chronic illness, or other health challenges and aren't sure if anyone understands your concerns? Do you feel like a burden to your family and friends? Consider getting an ally who can help you find hope and more effectively manage your situation.
(979) 800-3070 View (979) 800-3070
Photo of Kristina Sarkisova, MSSW, LMSW
Kristina Sarkisova
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78756  (Online Only)
Whether emotional, physical, or both: your pain is 100% real, it matters, and it carries important information.
Hello! I'm a multi-cultural, bilingual (English/Español), trauma-sensitive and caring psychotherapist. I'm passionate about Neurobiology, Attachment and the mind-body connection, and I have experience working with people who are going through grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity questions, relationship struggles, and more. I also find it deeply fulfilling to work with clients who live with disabilities, chronic illness, and/or chronic pain. I know first-hand how challenging it can be to sustain a loss of health, and I consider it a privilege to support you in the many ways this may be impacting your life.
Whether emotional, physical, or both: your pain is 100% real, it matters, and it carries important information.
Hello! I'm a multi-cultural, bilingual (English/Español), trauma-sensitive and caring psychotherapist. I'm passionate about Neurobiology, Attachment and the mind-body connection, and I have experience working with people who are going through grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity questions, relationship struggles, and more. I also find it deeply fulfilling to work with clients who live with disabilities, chronic illness, and/or chronic pain. I know first-hand how challenging it can be to sustain a loss of health, and I consider it a privilege to support you in the many ways this may be impacting your life.
(512) 982-6027 View (512) 982-6027
Photo of Rosemary D Behrens, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rosemary D Behrens
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
Helping clients to gain better self-awareness whether they are struggling with chronic pain, depression, grief, anxiety, anger or relationship issues is what I do best. I find that when clients realize that I genuinely care about them and their progress an immediate burden is lifted. Couples counseling can bring a sense of hope in just one session, real work and restoration takes all working together. I enjoy working with children on their level with games, toys and other activities.
Helping clients to gain better self-awareness whether they are struggling with chronic pain, depression, grief, anxiety, anger or relationship issues is what I do best. I find that when clients realize that I genuinely care about them and their progress an immediate burden is lifted. Couples counseling can bring a sense of hope in just one session, real work and restoration takes all working together. I enjoy working with children on their level with games, toys and other activities.
(832) 981-1077 View (832) 981-1077
Photo of Renata C Doss, MEd, NCC, MAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renata C Doss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Denton, TX 76205  (Online Only)
As a seasoned licensed professional counselor with over 30 years’ experience in Behavioral Healthcare in various clinical settings, my focus has been on providing therapy services to Individuals, Couples and Families. My treatment areas of specialization include: PTSD/Trauma (including Traumatic Body Injury), Depression, Stress and Anxiety, Life Transitions, Self-Esteem Issues, Chronic Pain, Couples Therapy, Chronic Illness, EMDR, Women’s Empowerment and Adult Caregiving.
As a seasoned licensed professional counselor with over 30 years’ experience in Behavioral Healthcare in various clinical settings, my focus has been on providing therapy services to Individuals, Couples and Families. My treatment areas of specialization include: PTSD/Trauma (including Traumatic Body Injury), Depression, Stress and Anxiety, Life Transitions, Self-Esteem Issues, Chronic Pain, Couples Therapy, Chronic Illness, EMDR, Women’s Empowerment and Adult Caregiving.
(281) 957-1329 View (281) 957-1329
Photo of Jose A Gonzalez, MA, LPC, LCDC, CRS, CART, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jose A Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC, CRS, CART
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78041
For the past 28 years I have been assisting members in our community and surrounding areas with an array of mental health issues confronting them and their families. Among these have been MH Evaluations and Clearances, Treatment for Alcohol/Drug Abuse/Dependence, Children/Adolescent Services, Anger Management, Couple, Marriage & Family Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Impulse Control Issues, Self Harm, Self-Esteem Issues, Body Image Concerns, Sexual Disorders, Weight Reduction/Control, Gender Identity Issues, Behavioral Pain Management, Vocational/Career Counseling, Stress management Biofeedback, Hypnotherapy, and other.
For the past 28 years I have been assisting members in our community and surrounding areas with an array of mental health issues confronting them and their families. Among these have been MH Evaluations and Clearances, Treatment for Alcohol/Drug Abuse/Dependence, Children/Adolescent Services, Anger Management, Couple, Marriage & Family Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Impulse Control Issues, Self Harm, Self-Esteem Issues, Body Image Concerns, Sexual Disorders, Weight Reduction/Control, Gender Identity Issues, Behavioral Pain Management, Vocational/Career Counseling, Stress management Biofeedback, Hypnotherapy, and other.
(956) 253-0904 View (956) 253-0904
Photo of Melanie Somerville, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melanie Somerville
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77006
I bring compassion, curiosity, and sensitive expertise to my work with adults. Feeling adrift and unsettled? Encountering significant life changes? Relationship problems? Having difficulties making decisions? Struggling with chronic pain or illness? The foundation for insight and change combines a mindful, present moment approach with emphasis on attachment and its impact on the relationship we have with ourselves and with others. My broad experience can be the key to making sense of your world and regaining your equilibrium.
I bring compassion, curiosity, and sensitive expertise to my work with adults. Feeling adrift and unsettled? Encountering significant life changes? Relationship problems? Having difficulties making decisions? Struggling with chronic pain or illness? The foundation for insight and change combines a mindful, present moment approach with emphasis on attachment and its impact on the relationship we have with ourselves and with others. My broad experience can be the key to making sense of your world and regaining your equilibrium.
(512) 960-3591 View (512) 960-3591
Photo of Yvonne Frias, MS, LPC, NCC
Yvonne Frias
MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77581
For me, the opportunity to help others has always been a personal passion and I believe that every person deserves to be heard and seen. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in enjoy working with individuals dealing with chronic pain/ illness, adjustment issues, and caregiver burnout. My approach is tailored to each individual's needs and experiences, regardless of their age or background. I use a combination of Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Expressive Arts to help my clients achieve their goals, among a variety of other therapeutic evidence based techniques.
For me, the opportunity to help others has always been a personal passion and I believe that every person deserves to be heard and seen. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in enjoy working with individuals dealing with chronic pain/ illness, adjustment issues, and caregiver burnout. My approach is tailored to each individual's needs and experiences, regardless of their age or background. I use a combination of Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Expressive Arts to help my clients achieve their goals, among a variety of other therapeutic evidence based techniques.
(346) 275-3145 View (346) 275-3145
Photo of Malauna Hogan, PhD, Psychologist
Malauna Hogan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Hogan has over 25 years of experience in providing psychological services to a number of special populations, including individuals with chronic pain management issues and adjustment issues related to long-term care placement and other life transitions.
Dr. Malauna Hogan is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, who provides psychological services. including psychotherapy and assessment, to adults and individuals who are in advanced stages of life. She uses Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, as well as other evidenced-based treatments, to treat a number of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, adjustment to life transitions, work-related stress, and relationship issues. She is also sensitive to multicultural issues that impact an individual’s well-being.
Hogan has over 25 years of experience in providing psychological services to a number of special populations, including individuals with chronic pain management issues and adjustment issues related to long-term care placement and other life transitions.
Dr. Malauna Hogan is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, who provides psychological services. including psychotherapy and assessment, to adults and individuals who are in advanced stages of life. She uses Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, as well as other evidenced-based treatments, to treat a number of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, adjustment to life transitions, work-related stress, and relationship issues. She is also sensitive to multicultural issues that impact an individual’s well-being.
(469) 812-8492 View (469) 812-8492
Photo of Yvonne Tejeda, MA, LPC, PLLC, RYT200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yvonne Tejeda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PLLC, RYT200
Verified Verified
Spring Branch, TX 78070
If you’re searching for a therapist to finally release negative emotions, chronic pain, or irrational behaviors that are not at the core of who you are,and ready to get back to your TRUE SELF, call me.
Hello, I’m a licensed therapist in SA & Spring Branch TX, specialized in treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and chronic pain. I use evidence-based treatment modalities such as EMDR or TF-CBT, somatic psychotherapy for body regulation and reconnection of mind and body. I’m a Hatha yoga certified teacher, an original yoga practiced thousands of years ago that has transformed human beings to transcend to higher states of consciousness, releasing mental, emotional and physical illness and daily stressors in order to return to original state of wellness and inner peace.
If you’re searching for a therapist to finally release negative emotions, chronic pain, or irrational behaviors that are not at the core of who you are,and ready to get back to your TRUE SELF, call me.
Hello, I’m a licensed therapist in SA & Spring Branch TX, specialized in treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and chronic pain. I use evidence-based treatment modalities such as EMDR or TF-CBT, somatic psychotherapy for body regulation and reconnection of mind and body. I’m a Hatha yoga certified teacher, an original yoga practiced thousands of years ago that has transformed human beings to transcend to higher states of consciousness, releasing mental, emotional and physical illness and daily stressors in order to return to original state of wellness and inner peace.
(210) 844-1296 View (210) 844-1296
Photo of Sabrina S Austin, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Sabrina S Austin
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Are your health issues overwhelming your life? Living with chronic medical issues like pain can be isolating, frightening, and dejecting. As a health psychologist, I offer hope, knowledge, and support to individuals struggling with complex challenges. Every day, scientific advancements illuminate the integral relationship between mind and body. Effective treatment of one requires caring for both. In working with me, you can expect kindness, humor, acceptance, and a lot of mixed metaphors. I hope that, through our work together, you can find sources of light on your darkest days.
Are your health issues overwhelming your life? Living with chronic medical issues like pain can be isolating, frightening, and dejecting. As a health psychologist, I offer hope, knowledge, and support to individuals struggling with complex challenges. Every day, scientific advancements illuminate the integral relationship between mind and body. Effective treatment of one requires caring for both. In working with me, you can expect kindness, humor, acceptance, and a lot of mixed metaphors. I hope that, through our work together, you can find sources of light on your darkest days.
(972) 702-7245 View (972) 702-7245
Photo of Aaron Pollard, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aaron Pollard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Burleson, TX 76028
I specialize in dealing with physical disabilities and chronic pain, addictions, individual counseling, family and couples counseling, child development and or behavioral issues in school and or home for ages 10-18, depression, anxiety, and military issues such as life style and deployment, and many other life obstacles.
As a clinician I have a very goal-oriented, direct style of counseling; however, I am tactful in my approach. I am here to help you and/or your family achieve your therapeutic goals and I believe in maintaining appropriate and healthy boundaries. I have experience in a plethora of physical and behavioral health issues such as addictions, family and couples counseling, child behavioral issues in school and home, disability and chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and military issues to name a few Please give me a call and let’s get you living the life you were meant to live.
I specialize in dealing with physical disabilities and chronic pain, addictions, individual counseling, family and couples counseling, child development and or behavioral issues in school and or home for ages 10-18, depression, anxiety, and military issues such as life style and deployment, and many other life obstacles.
As a clinician I have a very goal-oriented, direct style of counseling; however, I am tactful in my approach. I am here to help you and/or your family achieve your therapeutic goals and I believe in maintaining appropriate and healthy boundaries. I have experience in a plethora of physical and behavioral health issues such as addictions, family and couples counseling, child behavioral issues in school and home, disability and chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and military issues to name a few Please give me a call and let’s get you living the life you were meant to live.
(682) 688-4269 View (682) 688-4269
Photo of Gina R Carter, LPC, MAMF, MARE, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gina R Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAMF, MARE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
I have experience working with adults with serious illness, helping them to process the multiple losses, and at times trauma, associated with emotional strain, diagnosis and often repeated treatments.
Looking for relief and overwhelmed with where to even begin? Take the first step in unraveling the chaos as we develop a plan that helps restore your hope once again. My passion centers around working with adults who have experienced loss, trauma, mood disorders, and relationship difficulties. Together we develop strategies that equip you to move through the pain in your life, so you can face the future with renewed confidence.
I have experience working with adults with serious illness, helping them to process the multiple losses, and at times trauma, associated with emotional strain, diagnosis and often repeated treatments.
Looking for relief and overwhelmed with where to even begin? Take the first step in unraveling the chaos as we develop a plan that helps restore your hope once again. My passion centers around working with adults who have experienced loss, trauma, mood disorders, and relationship difficulties. Together we develop strategies that equip you to move through the pain in your life, so you can face the future with renewed confidence.
(469) 224-0123 View (469) 224-0123
Photo of Carla Badgett, MDiv, DMin, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carla Badgett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, DMin, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaumont, TX 77706
I have worked with people dealing with addiction, anger, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, chronic pain, codependency, grief, insomnia, obsessive thinking patterns, trauma, and relationship issues.
Everyone goes through difficult times. We all have issues and there are moments that we can benefit by having a professional counselor listen and help us deal with anxiety, brokenness, confusion, depression, pain, grief, or problems in our relationships. Counseling can provide insights and guide us to discover new ways to cope, improve ourselves, find more enjoyment in life, increase self esteem, be healthier, build resilience, and communicate more effectively.
I have worked with people dealing with addiction, anger, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, chronic pain, codependency, grief, insomnia, obsessive thinking patterns, trauma, and relationship issues.
Everyone goes through difficult times. We all have issues and there are moments that we can benefit by having a professional counselor listen and help us deal with anxiety, brokenness, confusion, depression, pain, grief, or problems in our relationships. Counseling can provide insights and guide us to discover new ways to cope, improve ourselves, find more enjoyment in life, increase self esteem, be healthier, build resilience, and communicate more effectively.
(409) 999-3054 View (409) 999-3054
Photo of Diane M Gard, PhD, BFK, NFK, Psychologist
Diane M Gard
Psychologist, PhD, BFK, NFK
Verified Verified
Gard can provide a thorough assessment and treatment plan to address depression, anxiety, stress management, pain management, mood management, behaviors, addictions, learning disorders, memory problems, adjustment issues, and trauma issues/ PTSD.
Dr. Gard has a PhD in Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine with over 30 years of clinical experience. Clients span a wide variety of diagnoses. She sees clients Age 5 to seniors. ETNH office is open Mondays through Thursdays and by appointment to serve the community. She can provide biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, light therapy in addition to eclectic approaches (cognitive and behavioral) to address your specific needs.
Gard can provide a thorough assessment and treatment plan to address depression, anxiety, stress management, pain management, mood management, behaviors, addictions, learning disorders, memory problems, adjustment issues, and trauma issues/ PTSD.
Dr. Gard has a PhD in Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine with over 30 years of clinical experience. Clients span a wide variety of diagnoses. She sees clients Age 5 to seniors. ETNH office is open Mondays through Thursdays and by appointment to serve the community. She can provide biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, light therapy in addition to eclectic approaches (cognitive and behavioral) to address your specific needs.
(903) 767-4190 View (903) 767-4190
Photo of Jennifer Adair, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Adair
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77304  (Online Only)
Are you facing challenges due to anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, narcissistic abuse recovery, complex relationship issues, or disruptive sexual deviation? I'm here to help. With specialized expertise in these areas, I've dedicated my education & career to providing personalized & effective therapy tailored to your unique needs & circumstances. I offer compassionate & non-judgmental support to help you thrive. I provide telehealth sessions, ensuring accessibility & flexibility. Visit my website to request an appointment and begin your journey towards a brighter tomorrow. www.onestaco.com
Are you facing challenges due to anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, narcissistic abuse recovery, complex relationship issues, or disruptive sexual deviation? I'm here to help. With specialized expertise in these areas, I've dedicated my education & career to providing personalized & effective therapy tailored to your unique needs & circumstances. I offer compassionate & non-judgmental support to help you thrive. I provide telehealth sessions, ensuring accessibility & flexibility. Visit my website to request an appointment and begin your journey towards a brighter tomorrow. www.onestaco.com
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Photo of Dr. Jonathan Morris, PhD, BCET, DCM, DPM, Psychologist
Dr. Jonathan Morris
Psychologist, PhD, BCET, DCM, DPM
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77074
ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, PAIN, STRESS are interwoven through mind and body interactions.
For individual, couples, adults and teens, the pursuit of ones therapeutic goals is a deeply personal endeavor, one that entails time, effort, occasional discomfort and some expense. I am keenly aware of the burden of trust, inherent in my participation in so intimate and earnest an undertaking, and will apply my clinical judgment, professional acumen, interpersonal skills and 35-years of experience, to discern and address those needs. In doing so, respect for your values, reverence for your individuality and deference to your aspirations, will guide our endeavor, enabling you to attain your goals with dignity and true contentment.
ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, PAIN, STRESS are interwoven through mind and body interactions.
For individual, couples, adults and teens, the pursuit of ones therapeutic goals is a deeply personal endeavor, one that entails time, effort, occasional discomfort and some expense. I am keenly aware of the burden of trust, inherent in my participation in so intimate and earnest an undertaking, and will apply my clinical judgment, professional acumen, interpersonal skills and 35-years of experience, to discern and address those needs. In doing so, respect for your values, reverence for your individuality and deference to your aspirations, will guide our endeavor, enabling you to attain your goals with dignity and true contentment.
(281) 937-8306 View (281) 937-8306
Photo of Jeffrey Drake, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeffrey Drake
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034  (Online Only)
Working with me, Jeffrey Drake, is an experience rooted in empathy, transformation, and hope. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I specialize in chronic pain conditions, couples and marital counseling, anxiety, depression, and stress management. My approach is deeply client-centered, driven by a genuine passion for helping individuals find their path to brighter, more fulfilling lives. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of chronic pain, challenging negative thoughts, and emotions to pave the way for relief and well-being.
Working with me, Jeffrey Drake, is an experience rooted in empathy, transformation, and hope. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I specialize in chronic pain conditions, couples and marital counseling, anxiety, depression, and stress management. My approach is deeply client-centered, driven by a genuine passion for helping individuals find their path to brighter, more fulfilling lives. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of chronic pain, challenging negative thoughts, and emotions to pave the way for relief and well-being.
(469) 461-4145 View (469) 461-4145
Photo of Kelly Knight, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Knight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081  (Online Only)
I also live with chronic pain and illness, and I personally understand the challenges and complexities of treatment.
Chronic pain and illness can impact all aspects of a person’s life. They can be physically and mentally debilitating and directly affect relationships, work, finances, confidence, and ability to complete even simple daily tasks. If you are having trouble managing symptoms of pain, illness, side effects from treatment, or feeling stressed, worried, or isolated, you are not alone. Millions of people are struggling with health issues, and those around them don’t always understand, don’t know how to help, or both. It can be overwhelming and difficult to handle on your own.
I also live with chronic pain and illness, and I personally understand the challenges and complexities of treatment.
Chronic pain and illness can impact all aspects of a person’s life. They can be physically and mentally debilitating and directly affect relationships, work, finances, confidence, and ability to complete even simple daily tasks. If you are having trouble managing symptoms of pain, illness, side effects from treatment, or feeling stressed, worried, or isolated, you are not alone. Millions of people are struggling with health issues, and those around them don’t always understand, don’t know how to help, or both. It can be overwhelming and difficult to handle on your own.
(469) 608-2346 View (469) 608-2346
Photo of Cherie Spellman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cherie Spellman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grapevine, TX 76051
Get unstuck, heal from trauma, and find relief from physical pain and tension. I provide individualized therapy to every unique person, helping you to find new ways to grow, change, and connect to yourself and others. I help clients with physical and emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, sport injury and sport performance, PTSD, stuck patterns of behavior, unwanted emotional reactions, and performance and creativity enhancement. Client's response to the body/brain approach is awe in noticing things they never have and making new connections that are felt in a way that they can actually take action on.
Get unstuck, heal from trauma, and find relief from physical pain and tension. I provide individualized therapy to every unique person, helping you to find new ways to grow, change, and connect to yourself and others. I help clients with physical and emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, sport injury and sport performance, PTSD, stuck patterns of behavior, unwanted emotional reactions, and performance and creativity enhancement. Client's response to the body/brain approach is awe in noticing things they never have and making new connections that are felt in a way that they can actually take action on.
(682) 228-3790 View (682) 228-3790
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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.