Chronic Pain Therapists in Iowa City, IA
Rachael L Carr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
I specialize in working with those with developmental trauma or PTSD, chronic pain or illness, healthcare workers, educators and the queer community.
Through somatic therapies and trauma-informed approaches, I will guide you to develop the ability to be with, and relate to uncertainty, to create new possibilities. When stressful experiences exhaust our physical, mental, or emotional capacities, trauma can develop. Unresolved traumas can contribute to anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and physical pain, profoundly affecting daily life. Exhausting cycles of anxiety or anger, freeze and/or depression/collapse can occur. Gradually increasing capacity and regulation, you will learn to find reassurance, wherever you are, whatever is going on, in this constantly changing world.
I specialize in working with those with developmental trauma or PTSD, chronic pain or illness, healthcare workers, educators and the queer community.
Through somatic therapies and trauma-informed approaches, I will guide you to develop the ability to be with, and relate to uncertainty, to create new possibilities. When stressful experiences exhaust our physical, mental, or emotional capacities, trauma can develop. Unresolved traumas can contribute to anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and physical pain, profoundly affecting daily life. Exhausting cycles of anxiety or anger, freeze and/or depression/collapse can occur. Gradually increasing capacity and regulation, you will learn to find reassurance, wherever you are, whatever is going on, in this constantly changing world.
Adina Joy Levitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52246
As a holistic psychotherapist, my practice focuses on the whole person- mind, body, and spirit. Together, we will navigate the labyrinth of your life’s journey, through the constant flow of ups and downs that often feels unpredictable & overwhelming. I will offer you a safe and grounded space to work on the challenges that may be encircling you. In addition to my LMSW, I also have extensive training in earth-based spirituality. Areas of focus: trauma, PTSD, stress, anxiety, grief, medically unexplained pain, & spirituality. I use an integrated therapeutic approach: Narrative, Somatic, EMDR, ACT, Solution-Focused, & Experiential.
As a holistic psychotherapist, my practice focuses on the whole person- mind, body, and spirit. Together, we will navigate the labyrinth of your life’s journey, through the constant flow of ups and downs that often feels unpredictable & overwhelming. I will offer you a safe and grounded space to work on the challenges that may be encircling you. In addition to my LMSW, I also have extensive training in earth-based spirituality. Areas of focus: trauma, PTSD, stress, anxiety, grief, medically unexplained pain, & spirituality. I use an integrated therapeutic approach: Narrative, Somatic, EMDR, ACT, Solution-Focused, & Experiential.
Areas I specialize include anxiety, depression, childhood sexual abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, childhood trauma, cutting and self-harm, grief and loss, domestic violence, Emotional Intensity Disorder, addiction, couples counseling, stress management, adolescents, eating disorders, EAP services, and chronic mental illness.
All of us have some hard and difficult times in life and we need some help. Although this can be humbling, it usually pays off in the end. I am a very flexible and laid back person and am here to help you with whatever it is you are struggling with. There will be no judgment and we will work on what only you want to work on. I believe there is no magic answer to everything and not everything works for everybody, so it is you and I trying to figure out what works best for you.
Areas I specialize include anxiety, depression, childhood sexual abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, childhood trauma, cutting and self-harm, grief and loss, domestic violence, Emotional Intensity Disorder, addiction, couples counseling, stress management, adolescents, eating disorders, EAP services, and chronic mental illness.
All of us have some hard and difficult times in life and we need some help. Although this can be humbling, it usually pays off in the end. I am a very flexible and laid back person and am here to help you with whatever it is you are struggling with. There will be no judgment and we will work on what only you want to work on. I believe there is no magic answer to everything and not everything works for everybody, so it is you and I trying to figure out what works best for you.
I have experience working with career development, stress management, self-esteem, personal development and identity, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, domestic violence, relationship conflicts, substance use, and chronic and terminal illness.
It can be very challenging and difficult to talk to someone about your mental health. Reaching out to a therapist is a brave first step towards healing. I aim to provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment where I assist my client in constructing a treatment plan that works best for their current needs and lifestyle. In session, I utilize a combination of Person-Centered, Narrative, Cognitive-behavioral, and Solution Focused approaches to meet my client’s individualistic or holistic needs. I also specialize in the technique of brain-spotting and am currently working to earn certification.
I have experience working with career development, stress management, self-esteem, personal development and identity, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, domestic violence, relationship conflicts, substance use, and chronic and terminal illness.
It can be very challenging and difficult to talk to someone about your mental health. Reaching out to a therapist is a brave first step towards healing. I aim to provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment where I assist my client in constructing a treatment plan that works best for their current needs and lifestyle. In session, I utilize a combination of Person-Centered, Narrative, Cognitive-behavioral, and Solution Focused approaches to meet my client’s individualistic or holistic needs. I also specialize in the technique of brain-spotting and am currently working to earn certification.
Emma Schutte
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52246 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also have experience working within the chronic illness and chronic pain communities.
Trauma happens when stressful experiences deplete our physical, mental, or emotional resources. Unresolved traumas can persist as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, physical pain or illness, and other distressing symptoms that wreak havoc on our daily lives. I do not believe that we "get over" our traumas, but rather that we find a way through them. As your therapist, I will walk beside you as you navigate your trauma journey and regain ownership over your personal story.
I also have experience working within the chronic illness and chronic pain communities.
Trauma happens when stressful experiences deplete our physical, mental, or emotional resources. Unresolved traumas can persist as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, physical pain or illness, and other distressing symptoms that wreak havoc on our daily lives. I do not believe that we "get over" our traumas, but rather that we find a way through them. As your therapist, I will walk beside you as you navigate your trauma journey and regain ownership over your personal story.
I am a licensed psychologist with over two decades of experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic attacks, stress management, chronic pain, insomnia, low self-esteem, trauma, abuse, addiction, anger management, relationship issue, marital conflict and stress related illness. I work from a holistic perspective that integrates in-depth psychological theory with complimentary medicine and mind-body wellness. If you are looking for release from old stuck patterns and wanting to feel whole and fully alive, call me.
I am a licensed psychologist with over two decades of experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic attacks, stress management, chronic pain, insomnia, low self-esteem, trauma, abuse, addiction, anger management, relationship issue, marital conflict and stress related illness. I work from a holistic perspective that integrates in-depth psychological theory with complimentary medicine and mind-body wellness. If you are looking for release from old stuck patterns and wanting to feel whole and fully alive, call me.
Michele Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52245
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker with many years of experience working with a diverse background of clients. I have a warm and positive approach that focuses on you. I strive to create a safe space by building a trusting relationship where we can work as a team. I am passionate about providing holistic care that is personalized to each individual’s unique needs. I have experiencing working with neurodiversity, grief and loss, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, the LBGTQ community, and trauma. I use an approach that examines factors of injustice and oppression on feelings of self-worth and personal development.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with many years of experience working with a diverse background of clients. I have a warm and positive approach that focuses on you. I strive to create a safe space by building a trusting relationship where we can work as a team. I am passionate about providing holistic care that is personalized to each individual’s unique needs. I have experiencing working with neurodiversity, grief and loss, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, the LBGTQ community, and trauma. I use an approach that examines factors of injustice and oppression on feelings of self-worth and personal development.
David received his Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Iowa and has been a practicing psychotherapist for the past 30 years. He is a Co-Founder and Co-Director of the Counseling Center of Iowa City. He has received advanced training in the areas of Ericksonian Hypnosis, Brief Therapy treatments for Depression and Anxiety, and Biofeedback and Stress management. His research and writing on the impact of chronic illness and chronic pain on individual, couple, and family functioning have received national recognition.
David received his Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Iowa and has been a practicing psychotherapist for the past 30 years. He is a Co-Founder and Co-Director of the Counseling Center of Iowa City. He has received advanced training in the areas of Ericksonian Hypnosis, Brief Therapy treatments for Depression and Anxiety, and Biofeedback and Stress management. His research and writing on the impact of chronic illness and chronic pain on individual, couple, and family functioning have received national recognition.
I have worked in a variety of mental health settings over a period of 20+ years including residential treatment for children and adults, supported living services for adults with mental illness, chemical dependency treatment, emergency/crisis counseling, biblical counseling in church settings, hospital programs for adults with chronic mental illness and vocational counseling. My areas of specialty include depression and anxiety in women. I offer individual counseling for women, children and teens. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Iowa.
I have worked in a variety of mental health settings over a period of 20+ years including residential treatment for children and adults, supported living services for adults with mental illness, chemical dependency treatment, emergency/crisis counseling, biblical counseling in church settings, hospital programs for adults with chronic mental illness and vocational counseling. My areas of specialty include depression and anxiety in women. I offer individual counseling for women, children and teens. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Iowa.
Kate Zera Kray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
From anxiety, to life transitions, to chronic illness; my skillset is as varied as my experience in medical hospitals (10+ years), cancer wellness centers(15+ years), and social service agencies(4 years).
Are you overcome with grief and wondering how you will (ever) recover from the death of a loved one; the loss of a job; a divorce; or your own decline in health? Are you finding that time does not heal all wounds? I am sorry you are going through a difficult time and I commend you for reaching out for support along your journey. It is my hope that my extensive clinical experience, coupled with your resiliency and resolve, will enable us to uncover the tools necessary to reinvest in your life. I am accepting new clients for virtual meetings. I am licensed in Georgia, Illinois and Iowa.
From anxiety, to life transitions, to chronic illness; my skillset is as varied as my experience in medical hospitals (10+ years), cancer wellness centers(15+ years), and social service agencies(4 years).
Are you overcome with grief and wondering how you will (ever) recover from the death of a loved one; the loss of a job; a divorce; or your own decline in health? Are you finding that time does not heal all wounds? I am sorry you are going through a difficult time and I commend you for reaching out for support along your journey. It is my hope that my extensive clinical experience, coupled with your resiliency and resolve, will enable us to uncover the tools necessary to reinvest in your life. I am accepting new clients for virtual meetings. I am licensed in Georgia, Illinois and Iowa.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss and can help people with chronic pain and illnesses.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Registered Art Therapist. I am certified in EMDR and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy. I have been helping people of all ages navigate mental health and life challenges for over 25 years. Together, we can tailor your therapy to meet your individual needs so you can move beyond whatever is holding you back and begin to experience the relief and change you are seeking. My approach is non-judgmental, compassionate and collaborative.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss and can help people with chronic pain and illnesses.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Registered Art Therapist. I am certified in EMDR and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy. I have been helping people of all ages navigate mental health and life challenges for over 25 years. Together, we can tailor your therapy to meet your individual needs so you can move beyond whatever is holding you back and begin to experience the relief and change you are seeking. My approach is non-judgmental, compassionate and collaborative.
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Mental health can be extremely isolating and confusing, often leading to questioning yourself. My goal is to help reduce the confusion and pain and walk alongside you in your journey to healing. My approach is through a collaborative lens that meets individuals where they are. My therapeutic style is empathetic, non-judgmental, and empowers clients toward their personal goals and well-being. Seeking counseling can be daunting and creating a safe environment is at the core of my approach.
Mental health can be extremely isolating and confusing, often leading to questioning yourself. My goal is to help reduce the confusion and pain and walk alongside you in your journey to healing. My approach is through a collaborative lens that meets individuals where they are. My therapeutic style is empathetic, non-judgmental, and empowers clients toward their personal goals and well-being. Seeking counseling can be daunting and creating a safe environment is at the core of my approach.
I am proud to be part of the clinical team at Psychiatric Associates! I have been helping adults, adolescents, and children achieve their goals since 1995. I have a master’s degree in community-based counseling from Ball State University. From 1997 on, I have been licensed in my home state of Iowa. Currently, my clinical interests include: anxiety disorders, stress management, mood and affect management difficulties, adjustment difficulties, chronic pain, parenting issues, and children’s behavioral issues.
I am proud to be part of the clinical team at Psychiatric Associates! I have been helping adults, adolescents, and children achieve their goals since 1995. I have a master’s degree in community-based counseling from Ball State University. From 1997 on, I have been licensed in my home state of Iowa. Currently, my clinical interests include: anxiety disorders, stress management, mood and affect management difficulties, adjustment difficulties, chronic pain, parenting issues, and children’s behavioral issues.
Rochelle Renee Honey-Arcement
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Waitlist for new clients
My belief in every person’s inherent worth, dignity, and ability to heal and grow have been a driving force in what has led me to become a therapist. As human beings, we crave connection from our earliest moments, yet sometimes we experience pain that prompts us to protect ourselves or creates suffering. I work with people of all ages; children, teens and adults; witnessing the growth that can come from this collaborative relationship. In our work together we will help you connect with your compassionate, courageous self; paving the way for greater connections with others and with yourself.
My belief in every person’s inherent worth, dignity, and ability to heal and grow have been a driving force in what has led me to become a therapist. As human beings, we crave connection from our earliest moments, yet sometimes we experience pain that prompts us to protect ourselves or creates suffering. I work with people of all ages; children, teens and adults; witnessing the growth that can come from this collaborative relationship. In our work together we will help you connect with your compassionate, courageous self; paving the way for greater connections with others and with yourself.
Lindsey Piper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Waitlist for new clients
While I am on a waitlist for new clients, I have immediate openings for gender affirming care letters. I can offer this service free of charge for those who can't afford it. Poet Anne Sexton wrote, "That the worst of anyone Can be, finally, An accident of hope." If you're here, you probably feel at your worst. Maybe a traumatic event has left you feeling broken and lost. Perhaps what you've been doing to cope just isn't working anymore, or is doing more harm than good. Whatever your reasons, I'm glad you're thinking about therapy. This process can be scary and takes hard work, and I welcome anyone courageous enough to seek out hope.
While I am on a waitlist for new clients, I have immediate openings for gender affirming care letters. I can offer this service free of charge for those who can't afford it. Poet Anne Sexton wrote, "That the worst of anyone Can be, finally, An accident of hope." If you're here, you probably feel at your worst. Maybe a traumatic event has left you feeling broken and lost. Perhaps what you've been doing to cope just isn't working anymore, or is doing more harm than good. Whatever your reasons, I'm glad you're thinking about therapy. This process can be scary and takes hard work, and I welcome anyone courageous enough to seek out hope.
The therapeutic relationship can be a very important one and, like any other healthy relationship, it is based on mutual respect, trust and commitment. I approach our work together with a nonjudgmental stance. I will meet you wherever you are in your life's journey and honor your unique strengths. I support clients in creating their most fulfilling lives, in line with their values and goals. I incorporate mindfulness into a collaborative and client-centered process and employ an honest, direct communication.
The therapeutic relationship can be a very important one and, like any other healthy relationship, it is based on mutual respect, trust and commitment. I approach our work together with a nonjudgmental stance. I will meet you wherever you are in your life's journey and honor your unique strengths. I support clients in creating their most fulfilling lives, in line with their values and goals. I incorporate mindfulness into a collaborative and client-centered process and employ an honest, direct communication.
Grant Alan Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, tLMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52245
Waitlist for new clients
There are more ways to live than we can imagine! Let’s find new ways of living, together, so that you can get back to savoring the many joys and sorrows of the carnival of life.
There are more ways to live than we can imagine! Let’s find new ways of living, together, so that you can get back to savoring the many joys and sorrows of the carnival of life.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma that affects your day-to-day life? In my practice, I start by understanding where you are now and the unique challenges you are facing. Together, we will create a personalized plan to help you move forward in the direction you want to go. I am committed to offering a safe and supportive environment, with both in-person and virtual appointments available on a confidential platform. Whether you're seeking to overcome obstacles, build coping skills, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to support you every step of the way.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma that affects your day-to-day life? In my practice, I start by understanding where you are now and the unique challenges you are facing. Together, we will create a personalized plan to help you move forward in the direction you want to go. I am committed to offering a safe and supportive environment, with both in-person and virtual appointments available on a confidential platform. Whether you're seeking to overcome obstacles, build coping skills, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to support you every step of the way.
I believe that the essence of life is Divine and that all good flows from that source. Thus, any strength that emerges in my work occurs as I align myself with Divine love, wisdom, and purpose. Holism describes my perspective, thus systematically exploring many areas of a client's life helps prepare the ground for resolving current problematic issues or for encouraging and supporting growth and transformation.
I believe that the essence of life is Divine and that all good flows from that source. Thus, any strength that emerges in my work occurs as I align myself with Divine love, wisdom, and purpose. Holism describes my perspective, thus systematically exploring many areas of a client's life helps prepare the ground for resolving current problematic issues or for encouraging and supporting growth and transformation.
I work best with those who are interested in and motivated to deeply explore and understand themselves in the service of lasting growth. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, grief, OCD, relationship concerns, family-of-origin difficulties, and feelings of isolation and disconnection. I also have a strong interest in working with individuals with marginalized identities who present with identity-related challenges, especially when living in a context that doesn't support- or actively works to oppress- those identities.
I work best with those who are interested in and motivated to deeply explore and understand themselves in the service of lasting growth. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, grief, OCD, relationship concerns, family-of-origin difficulties, and feelings of isolation and disconnection. I also have a strong interest in working with individuals with marginalized identities who present with identity-related challenges, especially when living in a context that doesn't support- or actively works to oppress- those identities.
See more therapy options for Iowa City
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Iowa City
See More Chronic Pain TherapistsNearby Searches for Iowa City
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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.