Chronic Pain Therapists in Northbrook, IL

Photo of Thalia Tikka, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thalia Tikka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
Therapy can be a radically liberating process, and I believe our personal and inner healing work is part of the larger social justice movements we participate in for our mutual liberation. As a queer person myself, I tend to work with other LGBTQ+ people exploring and expanding their sexualities and gender identities. As someone involved in radical politics, I offer validation and therapeutic solidarity to abolitionists and activists across the spectrum of liberation movements. And as a person with mental illness, I offer a dignified and person-centered approach to caring for our most sensitive personal issues and life challenges.
Therapy can be a radically liberating process, and I believe our personal and inner healing work is part of the larger social justice movements we participate in for our mutual liberation. As a queer person myself, I tend to work with other LGBTQ+ people exploring and expanding their sexualities and gender identities. As someone involved in radical politics, I offer validation and therapeutic solidarity to abolitionists and activists across the spectrum of liberation movements. And as a person with mental illness, I offer a dignified and person-centered approach to caring for our most sensitive personal issues and life challenges.
(847) 696-8016 View (847) 696-8016
Photo of Janet Robinson, PhD, Psychologist
Janet Robinson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I have extensive experience working with patients who have neurological conditions including brain injury, stroke, brain tumors, spinal pathology, and pain.
I enjoy working collaboratively with individuals who are looking to make positive changes in their self-esteem, relationships, and effectiveness in the world. I look to help them understand the context in which their unhealthy behavior patterns emerged, and then use this understanding to make practical, lasting improvements. I tailor my therapeutic approach to each client based on their personality, needs, and goals. In my 30 years of practicing, I have seen the life-changing work that can be done by a well-matched therapist and client.
I have extensive experience working with patients who have neurological conditions including brain injury, stroke, brain tumors, spinal pathology, and pain.
I enjoy working collaboratively with individuals who are looking to make positive changes in their self-esteem, relationships, and effectiveness in the world. I look to help them understand the context in which their unhealthy behavior patterns emerged, and then use this understanding to make practical, lasting improvements. I tailor my therapeutic approach to each client based on their personality, needs, and goals. In my 30 years of practicing, I have seen the life-changing work that can be done by a well-matched therapist and client.
(847) 613-4339 View (847) 613-4339
Photo of Dr. Tracy Aneziris, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Tracy Aneziris
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
I often provide education and tools for mindfulness, pain management, sleep hygiene, nutrition, behavioral management, and journaling recommendations based on their individual needs.
I view therapy as a journey for self-exploration and positive change. In sessions, I work as a teammate and motivator for my clients to reach their goals and improve their quality of life. My success in helping clients comes from gaining a deeper understanding about client experiences, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In addition, I help clients seek awareness about how their emotional experiences impact their biological health and functioning.
I often provide education and tools for mindfulness, pain management, sleep hygiene, nutrition, behavioral management, and journaling recommendations based on their individual needs.
I view therapy as a journey for self-exploration and positive change. In sessions, I work as a teammate and motivator for my clients to reach their goals and improve their quality of life. My success in helping clients comes from gaining a deeper understanding about client experiences, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In addition, I help clients seek awareness about how their emotional experiences impact their biological health and functioning.
(224) 313-0275 View (224) 313-0275
Photo of Casey N Foreman, PsyD, MPH, Psychologist
Casey N Foreman
Psychologist, PsyD, MPH
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I also specialize in the treatment of phase of life transitions, parenting difficulties, couples issues, general health concerns and chronic pain and illness.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, working with adolescents, adults and couples who are struggling with a wide range of issues. I work towards providing an environment of comfort and support where individuals feel safe working to understand their thoughts, behaviors and difficulties. I utilize various interventions to fit my clients needs and circumstances, but often use a cognitive-behavioral and solution focused approach. I work hard to focus treatment on the specific needs of the client and provide the tools, coping skills and support they are seeking.
I also specialize in the treatment of phase of life transitions, parenting difficulties, couples issues, general health concerns and chronic pain and illness.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, working with adolescents, adults and couples who are struggling with a wide range of issues. I work towards providing an environment of comfort and support where individuals feel safe working to understand their thoughts, behaviors and difficulties. I utilize various interventions to fit my clients needs and circumstances, but often use a cognitive-behavioral and solution focused approach. I work hard to focus treatment on the specific needs of the client and provide the tools, coping skills and support they are seeking.
(224) 479-1329 View (224) 479-1329
Photo of Becky Freeman-Murray, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Becky Freeman-Murray
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Waitlist for new clients
Here to help in this difficult time,offering sessions in person, by phone or video. I'm a seasoned therapist with 25+ years of clinical experience. I'm warm, compassionate and confident through my professional experience and personal journey studying health and wellness. I am child life specialist with extensive experience with autism (ASD) and play therapy.. I'm a personal survivor of Lyme disease, and am Lyme-literate and able to understand chronic illness. As part of my tenure, I have spent years supporting adults, families, couples, and parents to thrive in their life. I'd love to meet you and support you in your journey!
Here to help in this difficult time,offering sessions in person, by phone or video. I'm a seasoned therapist with 25+ years of clinical experience. I'm warm, compassionate and confident through my professional experience and personal journey studying health and wellness. I am child life specialist with extensive experience with autism (ASD) and play therapy.. I'm a personal survivor of Lyme disease, and am Lyme-literate and able to understand chronic illness. As part of my tenure, I have spent years supporting adults, families, couples, and parents to thrive in their life. I'd love to meet you and support you in your journey!
(847) 443-9751 View (847) 443-9751
Photo of Howard K Weissman, PsyD, BCETS, Psychologist
Howard K Weissman
Psychologist, PsyD, BCETS
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Weissman is also well known in aiding those who struggle with chronic illness and chronic pain.
Are you stressed? Is your body speaking to you with hard to understand symptoms? There's a tension that remains when a task is incomplete. This tension is not only related to the projects we have yet to complete but also relates to the internal tension from not speaking our truth. Dr. Weissman is known for treating those with anxiety-based stress conditions like PTSD and OCD. His skills in mind body medicine and clinical psychology allow him to rapidly assess the depth and breath of stress in a person's life and in their life and to co-create an individualized treatment plan leading to greater self-care & personal empowerment.
Weissman is also well known in aiding those who struggle with chronic illness and chronic pain.
Are you stressed? Is your body speaking to you with hard to understand symptoms? There's a tension that remains when a task is incomplete. This tension is not only related to the projects we have yet to complete but also relates to the internal tension from not speaking our truth. Dr. Weissman is known for treating those with anxiety-based stress conditions like PTSD and OCD. His skills in mind body medicine and clinical psychology allow him to rapidly assess the depth and breath of stress in a person's life and in their life and to co-create an individualized treatment plan leading to greater self-care & personal empowerment.
(224) 246-8487 View (224) 246-8487
Photo of Francesca Cottone, MEd, LCPC, NCC
Francesca Cottone
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
I support children, teens, adults, couples, and families on their journey through a holistic lens, while looking at the “whole person".  I am passionate about supporting those struggling with anxiety, anxiety related disorders (social anxiety, panic disorder, phobias), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, self-esteem, body image, body dysmorphic disorder, body-focused repetitive behaviors, life transitions (school, motherhood, friendship, family, marriage, divorce, career, etc), relational difficulties, stress management, communication skills, chronic illness, and trauma.
I support children, teens, adults, couples, and families on their journey through a holistic lens, while looking at the “whole person".  I am passionate about supporting those struggling with anxiety, anxiety related disorders (social anxiety, panic disorder, phobias), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, self-esteem, body image, body dysmorphic disorder, body-focused repetitive behaviors, life transitions (school, motherhood, friendship, family, marriage, divorce, career, etc), relational difficulties, stress management, communication skills, chronic illness, and trauma.
(224) 970-2547 x1 View (224) 970-2547 x1
Photo of Dr. Debra M. Block, PsyD, MA, BS, Psychologist
Dr. Debra M. Block
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BS
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
My areas of expertise include Behavioral Medicine - Women's Health - Trauma Therapy - EMDR - Behavioral Weight Management, including Bariatric Evaluations - Pain Management - Coping Skills - Stress Management.
I have been in practice since 2002, helping adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups. I work collaboratively with clients from a biopsychosocial perspective, using the interrelationship between the mind and body as a focus for treatment. As a medical psychologist on hospital staff, I diagnose and treat psychological issues in outpatient or inpatient therapy.
My areas of expertise include Behavioral Medicine - Women's Health - Trauma Therapy - EMDR - Behavioral Weight Management, including Bariatric Evaluations - Pain Management - Coping Skills - Stress Management.
I have been in practice since 2002, helping adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups. I work collaboratively with clients from a biopsychosocial perspective, using the interrelationship between the mind and body as a focus for treatment. As a medical psychologist on hospital staff, I diagnose and treat psychological issues in outpatient or inpatient therapy.
(224) 479-0198 View (224) 479-0198
Photo of Patricia Stern, MSW, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
You've come this far in life, but now you're at a crossroads. You may be facing a new set of challenges in physical health, relationships, or other aspects of life. I listen with compassion and share coping strategies with adults dealing with life stress or with chronic illness.
You've come this far in life, but now you're at a crossroads. You may be facing a new set of challenges in physical health, relationships, or other aspects of life. I listen with compassion and share coping strategies with adults dealing with life stress or with chronic illness.
(224) 723-1196 View (224) 723-1196
Photo of Erin Borton, MA, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Erin Borton
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
I work primarily with clients who have more than one issue they want to address; multiple mental health diagnoses, mental illness and physical illness/ pain, or relationship issues (parenting support, intimate relationships, family issues) due to mental health/addiction struggles. I started my career in addiction counseling about 17 years ago and then sought to learn about other mental health issues that typically go along with it. This grew my knowledge in ADHD, Trauma, OCD, Eating Disorders, and other specialties, so that both/all issues could be treated well. I hold my CADC and love helping loved ones of addicts too!
I work primarily with clients who have more than one issue they want to address; multiple mental health diagnoses, mental illness and physical illness/ pain, or relationship issues (parenting support, intimate relationships, family issues) due to mental health/addiction struggles. I started my career in addiction counseling about 17 years ago and then sought to learn about other mental health issues that typically go along with it. This grew my knowledge in ADHD, Trauma, OCD, Eating Disorders, and other specialties, so that both/all issues could be treated well. I hold my CADC and love helping loved ones of addicts too!
(847) 558-1416 x5 View (847) 558-1416 x5
Photo of M Penny Levin, PhD, Psychologist
M Penny Levin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
Empathetic, but effective, Dr. Penny Levin is a clinician with more than 25 years of experience who is uniquely qualified to help you through a host of stressful situations. Dr. Levin is a psychologist and a personal trainer/nutrition specialist, Her understanding of the mind and body allow her to assist people grieving the loss of a loved one, professionals concerned with work-life balance or experiencing burnout, athletes struggling with injury or illness, and anyone simply trying to manage day-to-day stress. She has particular expertise dealing with infertility, maternal loss and Assisted Reproductive Technology.
Empathetic, but effective, Dr. Penny Levin is a clinician with more than 25 years of experience who is uniquely qualified to help you through a host of stressful situations. Dr. Levin is a psychologist and a personal trainer/nutrition specialist, Her understanding of the mind and body allow her to assist people grieving the loss of a loved one, professionals concerned with work-life balance or experiencing burnout, athletes struggling with injury or illness, and anyone simply trying to manage day-to-day stress. She has particular expertise dealing with infertility, maternal loss and Assisted Reproductive Technology.
(312) 548-6536 View (312) 548-6536
Photo of Alana Muriel, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alana Muriel
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
I have experience working with those who experience chronic pain/ illness, and approach these topics in an affirming and supportive manner.
If you're looking for a therapist who approaches therapy from both a practical and emotional lens, we may be a good fit! I want to help you achieve your goals and offer a space to express and make sense of your experiences. I have vast experience working with the neurodivergent population, and enjoy assisting those with ADHD and Autism as they navigate relationships, life responsibilities, and transitions. I am queer-allied and body-neutral. I work with ages 13 and up.
I have experience working with those who experience chronic pain/ illness, and approach these topics in an affirming and supportive manner.
If you're looking for a therapist who approaches therapy from both a practical and emotional lens, we may be a good fit! I want to help you achieve your goals and offer a space to express and make sense of your experiences. I have vast experience working with the neurodivergent population, and enjoy assisting those with ADHD and Autism as they navigate relationships, life responsibilities, and transitions. I am queer-allied and body-neutral. I work with ages 13 and up.
(630) 793-4899 View (630) 793-4899
Photo of Ruth E Field, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth E Field
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Life can feel overwhelming when you're faced with loss or change. As much as you try to adjust, it can be scary and confusing to realize that life isn't turning out the way you had planned. Life stress -- such as divorce or relationship loss, death of a loved one, job loss, illness, caregiving -- happens to most of us at some point and it can seem nearly impossible to bounce back from such heartache.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're faced with loss or change. As much as you try to adjust, it can be scary and confusing to realize that life isn't turning out the way you had planned. Life stress -- such as divorce or relationship loss, death of a loved one, job loss, illness, caregiving -- happens to most of us at some point and it can seem nearly impossible to bounce back from such heartache.
(847) 260-9463 View (847) 260-9463
Photo of Diane Copeland, PsyD, Psychologist
Diane Copeland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
As an experienced clinical-health psychologist, I specialize in helping people navigate life transitions (divorce, remarriage, parenting, relationships, work, health), manage food and weight issues (binge/emotional eating, weight management, weight-loss surgery), deal with addictions of all kinds (substance use, co-dependency, recovery, internet, shopping), develop healthier ways to manage stress and illness, and to deal with anxiety and depression. My approach to therapy is collaborative, interactive, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
As an experienced clinical-health psychologist, I specialize in helping people navigate life transitions (divorce, remarriage, parenting, relationships, work, health), manage food and weight issues (binge/emotional eating, weight management, weight-loss surgery), deal with addictions of all kinds (substance use, co-dependency, recovery, internet, shopping), develop healthier ways to manage stress and illness, and to deal with anxiety and depression. My approach to therapy is collaborative, interactive, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
(847) 512-8399 View (847) 512-8399
Photo of Joel K Brotman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joel K Brotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been trained extensively in several therapy models including; Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral and Acceptance Commitment Therapy. My clients range in age from young adults to older adults. I treat a variety of psychological problems, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, bipolar disorder, marital difficulties, OCD, addictive behaviors, emotional regulation, chronic pain.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been trained extensively in several therapy models including; Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral and Acceptance Commitment Therapy. My clients range in age from young adults to older adults. I treat a variety of psychological problems, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, bipolar disorder, marital difficulties, OCD, addictive behaviors, emotional regulation, chronic pain.
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Photo of Brooke K. Magers - Dr. Brooke K. Magers, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Brooke K. Magers
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I believe individuals manage the best they can, but these efforts do not always naturally translate to happiness or self-fulfillment. Oftentimes, situations cause us pain and in response, we spend considerable energy safeguarding our vulnerabilities at the expense of our well-being. Managing emotional distress alone can feel overwhelming, which is why we often need help from a sensitive, knowledgeable professional.
I believe individuals manage the best they can, but these efforts do not always naturally translate to happiness or self-fulfillment. Oftentimes, situations cause us pain and in response, we spend considerable energy safeguarding our vulnerabilities at the expense of our well-being. Managing emotional distress alone can feel overwhelming, which is why we often need help from a sensitive, knowledgeable professional.
(847) 558-7344 View (847) 558-7344
Photo of Britt Hermann, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Britt Hermann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60065
I am specifically trained in the following areas: high conflict relationships, mismatched libido, sexual pain disorders, erectile dysfunction, orgasmic difficulties, and sex after cancer.
Selecting a therapist and initiating the process can be intimidating. I want you make the right choice for you. My practice is focused on individuals and couples. I am a licensed psychotherapist and AASECT certified Sex Therapist. I specialize in treating issues that impact relationships such as conflict management, sex, communication and emotional connection. My areas of expertise include anxiety and OCD, out of control sexual behavior, spectrum disorder, interpersonal conflict, intimacy avoidance, communication problems, gender or sexual identity, trauma, treating sexual dysfunctions and more.
I am specifically trained in the following areas: high conflict relationships, mismatched libido, sexual pain disorders, erectile dysfunction, orgasmic difficulties, and sex after cancer.
Selecting a therapist and initiating the process can be intimidating. I want you make the right choice for you. My practice is focused on individuals and couples. I am a licensed psychotherapist and AASECT certified Sex Therapist. I specialize in treating issues that impact relationships such as conflict management, sex, communication and emotional connection. My areas of expertise include anxiety and OCD, out of control sexual behavior, spectrum disorder, interpersonal conflict, intimacy avoidance, communication problems, gender or sexual identity, trauma, treating sexual dysfunctions and more.
(847) 558-6372 View (847) 558-6372
Photo of Elka M Cubacub, LSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elka M Cubacub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Instead, I will guide you deeper into yourself to contact your own power, pain, and capacity for growth.
You are reading these words for a reason: You want to make a change and you're not sure how. Perhaps you feel socially inept and terrified of judgement or rejection. Or you feel alone and disconnected, unable to communicate effectively with the people you love most. Or you feel at odds with your body and dependent on food rituals surrounded by secrecy and shame. The human mind is wonderfully creative and adaptive. Your symptoms are valid responses to internal and environmental circumstances. In therapy, we can hold and heal your experience together.
Instead, I will guide you deeper into yourself to contact your own power, pain, and capacity for growth.
You are reading these words for a reason: You want to make a change and you're not sure how. Perhaps you feel socially inept and terrified of judgement or rejection. Or you feel alone and disconnected, unable to communicate effectively with the people you love most. Or you feel at odds with your body and dependent on food rituals surrounded by secrecy and shame. The human mind is wonderfully creative and adaptive. Your symptoms are valid responses to internal and environmental circumstances. In therapy, we can hold and heal your experience together.
(773) 832-5051 View (773) 832-5051
Photo of James E. 'jed' Foster Jr., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
James E. 'jed' Foster Jr.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I am accepting new patients at Comprehensive Gastrointestinal Health (CGH) in Northbrook, IL, and in private practice in Missouri and Illinois via telehealth. At CGH, I practice gut-directed hypnotherapy for IBS, Esophageal disorders, and other disorders of the mind-gut axis. In private practice, I see individuals, couples, and families looking to improve their mental health and overall well-being.
I am accepting new patients at Comprehensive Gastrointestinal Health (CGH) in Northbrook, IL, and in private practice in Missouri and Illinois via telehealth. At CGH, I practice gut-directed hypnotherapy for IBS, Esophageal disorders, and other disorders of the mind-gut axis. In private practice, I see individuals, couples, and families looking to improve their mental health and overall well-being.
(224) 212-1054 View (224) 212-1054
Photo of Carol O Weinberg - Carol O. Weinberg LCSW Inc., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol O. Weinberg LCSW Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Traditional Psychotherapy. Spiritual Counseling. Buddhist philosophy. Soul growth. I provide a safe, caring, confidential environment where coping skills are learned and feelings of insecurity, emptiness, hopelessness, anxiety or despair are addressed. I establish good relationships with my clients to promote personal growth and development. Our lives are continuously changing. We all have to learn to go through difficult transitions. With a trusted psychotherapist and a client who is ready to work on their issues, the healing process begins.
Traditional Psychotherapy. Spiritual Counseling. Buddhist philosophy. Soul growth. I provide a safe, caring, confidential environment where coping skills are learned and feelings of insecurity, emptiness, hopelessness, anxiety or despair are addressed. I establish good relationships with my clients to promote personal growth and development. Our lives are continuously changing. We all have to learn to go through difficult transitions. With a trusted psychotherapist and a client who is ready to work on their issues, the healing process begins.
(847) 242-2277 View (847) 242-2277
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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.