Chronic Pain Therapists in Illinois
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.
I also have a training specialty in working with individuals adjusting to chronic medical conditions including completion of pre-surgical psychological evaluations for bariatric surgery, spinal cord stimulator, & pain pump placement.
My approach to therapy is holistic and incorporates the connection of the mind, body and emotions. Clients have described me as warm, supportive, non-judgmental and calm. My goal is to help better manage your thoughts, feelings, and to help you feel happier and healthier. I welcome the opportunity to join your journey to healing and recovery.
I also have a training specialty in working with individuals adjusting to chronic medical conditions including completion of pre-surgical psychological evaluations for bariatric surgery, spinal cord stimulator, & pain pump placement.
My approach to therapy is holistic and incorporates the connection of the mind, body and emotions. Clients have described me as warm, supportive, non-judgmental and calm. My goal is to help better manage your thoughts, feelings, and to help you feel happier and healthier. I welcome the opportunity to join your journey to healing and recovery.
Dr. Tracy Aneziris
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60168 (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.
I have been specializing in Biofeedback since 2004, with a primary focus on chronic pain, anxiety and stress management. Through the use of Biofeedback techniques and technology, relaxation, breathing, and other mind-body techniques, I have helped many people struggling with stress, pain and pain-related symptoms such as sleep problems, anxiety, muscle tension and breathing difficulties. Biofeedback principles and technology are amazing! If you would like to know how stress affects your body you can see it in your own " biofeedback physiological mirror" which works similar to your bathroom mirror.
I have been specializing in Biofeedback since 2004, with a primary focus on chronic pain, anxiety and stress management. Through the use of Biofeedback techniques and technology, relaxation, breathing, and other mind-body techniques, I have helped many people struggling with stress, pain and pain-related symptoms such as sleep problems, anxiety, muscle tension and breathing difficulties. Biofeedback principles and technology are amazing! If you would like to know how stress affects your body you can see it in your own " biofeedback physiological mirror" which works similar to your bathroom mirror.
My specialties are anxiety, depression, daily stress, as well as the psychosocial impact and mental health management of chronic pain and medical conditions.
Hello, I’m Dr. Kelly Hamoudah! In my work, I believe that establishing a safe space and building rapport is the first step towards the healing process. If you’re looking for help from a psychologist who uses evidence based interventions, is warm and friendly, and cares about you reaching your goals, then you’re in the right spot.
My specialties are anxiety, depression, daily stress, as well as the psychosocial impact and mental health management of chronic pain and medical conditions.
Hello, I’m Dr. Kelly Hamoudah! In my work, I believe that establishing a safe space and building rapport is the first step towards the healing process. If you’re looking for help from a psychologist who uses evidence based interventions, is warm and friendly, and cares about you reaching your goals, then you’re in the right spot.
I work with individuals with PTSD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, chronic pain, and extensive abuse history.
My goal is to assist you in tuning into your body’s unique ability to heal from traumatic experiences. The modalities I use in order to assist in this process are gentle yet effective. I firmly believe you can get through life with increased resiliency and confidence in your ability to not only survive, but ultimately thrive by learning how to help your body experience a sense of safety and regulation.
I work with individuals with PTSD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, chronic pain, and extensive abuse history.
My goal is to assist you in tuning into your body’s unique ability to heal from traumatic experiences. The modalities I use in order to assist in this process are gentle yet effective. I firmly believe you can get through life with increased resiliency and confidence in your ability to not only survive, but ultimately thrive by learning how to help your body experience a sense of safety and regulation.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Barrington, Illinois, with more than 20 years of experience working with adults of all ages, adolescents and families. Whether discouraged or overwhelmed, therapy can help improve the quality of your life. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, academic and occupational problems, depression, relationship issues, and the challenges of life transition. With a background in health psychology, I also have expertise in helping clients whose illness or pain interfere with daily living, (e.g., migraine and IBS as well as other chronic illnesses such as cancer, fibromyalgia, diabetes and heart disease.)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Barrington, Illinois, with more than 20 years of experience working with adults of all ages, adolescents and families. Whether discouraged or overwhelmed, therapy can help improve the quality of your life. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, academic and occupational problems, depression, relationship issues, and the challenges of life transition. With a background in health psychology, I also have expertise in helping clients whose illness or pain interfere with daily living, (e.g., migraine and IBS as well as other chronic illnesses such as cancer, fibromyalgia, diabetes and heart disease.)
Jenna Bruchauser Sarna
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
Waitlist for new clients
***Dr. Bruchauser Sarna is not currently taking therapy patients at this time; however is still conducting neuropsychological evaluations. Dr. Bruchauser-Sarna received her Master's and Doctorate at Midwestern University in Downer's Grove. Her areas of interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, learning disorders, neurological disorders, as well as an array of medical ailments including pain, diabetes, cancer, and weight management. Dr. Bruchauser-Sarna is skilled in neuropsychological/psychological assessment, in addition to individual and couples therapy.
***Dr. Bruchauser Sarna is not currently taking therapy patients at this time; however is still conducting neuropsychological evaluations. Dr. Bruchauser-Sarna received her Master's and Doctorate at Midwestern University in Downer's Grove. Her areas of interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, learning disorders, neurological disorders, as well as an array of medical ailments including pain, diabetes, cancer, and weight management. Dr. Bruchauser-Sarna is skilled in neuropsychological/psychological assessment, in addition to individual and couples therapy.
As a therapist, I believe whole-heartedly in the potential of every client, while honoring their unique identity and experiences. I specialize in working with teens and adults, especially those who want to explore and address anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, body image, sexuality, gender, and self-acceptance. Additionally, I am certified in Pain Reprocessing Therapy, which helps to alleviate and eliminate chronic pain.
As a therapist, I believe whole-heartedly in the potential of every client, while honoring their unique identity and experiences. I specialize in working with teens and adults, especially those who want to explore and address anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, body image, sexuality, gender, and self-acceptance. Additionally, I am certified in Pain Reprocessing Therapy, which helps to alleviate and eliminate chronic pain.
I also specialize in health psychology and chronic pain.
I am a graduate from the Illinois School Of Professional Psychology. I completed my training at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago's Center for Pain Management (now known as the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab). I have worked in hospitals, outpatient mental health clinics, and long-term care facilities. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have extensive experience treating adults and geriatrics with a wide variety of psychological issues. I treat a variety of conditions such as, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, relationship issues, and life adjustment difficulties. I am also on staff at the Amita neuroscience institute.
I also specialize in health psychology and chronic pain.
I am a graduate from the Illinois School Of Professional Psychology. I completed my training at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago's Center for Pain Management (now known as the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab). I have worked in hospitals, outpatient mental health clinics, and long-term care facilities. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have extensive experience treating adults and geriatrics with a wide variety of psychological issues. I treat a variety of conditions such as, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, relationship issues, and life adjustment difficulties. I am also on staff at the Amita neuroscience institute.
Ephphatha 'Be Opened' Consulting Services, Inc.
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LMHC, CCMHC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625 (Online Only)
Clients that come to me for issues regarding their dissatisfaction with their progress on overcoming their challenges in life. Life issues range from traumatic experiences, LGBTQ issues, addictions & substance use disorders, spiritual problems, career problems, chronic illness, child & parenting issues as well as family imbalances. They want change and they want it with someone who can connect with them in real ways that help them know they are cared for, can be confident, and can overcome the challenges that confront them.
Clients that come to me for issues regarding their dissatisfaction with their progress on overcoming their challenges in life. Life issues range from traumatic experiences, LGBTQ issues, addictions & substance use disorders, spiritual problems, career problems, chronic illness, child & parenting issues as well as family imbalances. They want change and they want it with someone who can connect with them in real ways that help them know they are cared for, can be confident, and can overcome the challenges that confront them.
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I am especially passionate about working with those struggling with chronic pain and chronic illness.
I utilize a wide array of therapeutic modalities when working with my clients, as I believe in tailoring my approach to each individual person. My clinical experience includes working with adolescents and adults in the following treatment settings: residential living facilities, schools, community agencies, and private practice. I have helped clients address and overcome a broad range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, stress management, low self-esteem, body image concerns, major life transitions, and chronic health concerns.
I am especially passionate about working with those struggling with chronic pain and chronic illness.
I utilize a wide array of therapeutic modalities when working with my clients, as I believe in tailoring my approach to each individual person. My clinical experience includes working with adolescents and adults in the following treatment settings: residential living facilities, schools, community agencies, and private practice. I have helped clients address and overcome a broad range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, stress management, low self-esteem, body image concerns, major life transitions, and chronic health concerns.
Melissa Ann Ferdman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, CCM, CRC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
With over three decades of experience and advanced training in aging life care, I provide non-judgemental support in the assistance of pain and chronic illness, disabilities, life transitions, and all-encompassing grief counseling.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming. Are you an older adult struggling with managing your care, grief, or other areas of life? Are you a caregiver struggling to draw boundaries, dealing with grief, or stability? People generalize grief as the loss of a person. But reality is that grief has many forms. From loss of relationships, job loss, divorce, absence or pets. As time goes on and with the support of a licensed clinical professional counselor, these issues can become more manageable with commitment to therapy, a safe place, utilization of strategies and client strength-based approach.
With over three decades of experience and advanced training in aging life care, I provide non-judgemental support in the assistance of pain and chronic illness, disabilities, life transitions, and all-encompassing grief counseling.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming. Are you an older adult struggling with managing your care, grief, or other areas of life? Are you a caregiver struggling to draw boundaries, dealing with grief, or stability? People generalize grief as the loss of a person. But reality is that grief has many forms. From loss of relationships, job loss, divorce, absence or pets. As time goes on and with the support of a licensed clinical professional counselor, these issues can become more manageable with commitment to therapy, a safe place, utilization of strategies and client strength-based approach.
Evanston Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Through therapy, you will be given the tools you need to approach life transitions, anxiety, loneliness, and pain with confidence, clarity, and self-compassion.
You’ve been carrying the anxiety and pain for far too long. No one really knows what it's like to be you. It feels utterly lonely. But you are at the point, where you want to find hope again and see if there is a chance that it doesn’t have to be this way. You are navigating relationships with your intimate partner and friends, and experiencing difficult lonely feelings about your life, family, health, and career. Whether you have a relationship or are starting a new one, planning a family or maintaining one, struggling at college, battling chronic pain or IBS, or moving into the empty nest syndrome, there is so much to worry about.
Through therapy, you will be given the tools you need to approach life transitions, anxiety, loneliness, and pain with confidence, clarity, and self-compassion.
You’ve been carrying the anxiety and pain for far too long. No one really knows what it's like to be you. It feels utterly lonely. But you are at the point, where you want to find hope again and see if there is a chance that it doesn’t have to be this way. You are navigating relationships with your intimate partner and friends, and experiencing difficult lonely feelings about your life, family, health, and career. Whether you have a relationship or are starting a new one, planning a family or maintaining one, struggling at college, battling chronic pain or IBS, or moving into the empty nest syndrome, there is so much to worry about.
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.
Transformation Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD, RN, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, IL 60098
Since Feb of 2006, Transformation BH has been providing quality mental health treatment and specialized programs for those with intense emotions, addictions, impulsive behaviors, anxiety, chronic illness or pain.
Our approach to therapy is genuine, supportive, and solution-focused. We work collaboratively with you to build upon your strengths and find new ways to face challenges that lead to a more content and balanced life. Our experienced therapists treat ages 6 and older and use evidence-based treatments for a wide range of concerns, such as coping with chronic pain and medical conditions, mood swings, suicidal thoughts, self-harm urges, impulsivity, emotional reactivity, post-traumatic stress, difficulties in relationships, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life changes, and feeling stuck in achieving goals.
Since Feb of 2006, Transformation BH has been providing quality mental health treatment and specialized programs for those with intense emotions, addictions, impulsive behaviors, anxiety, chronic illness or pain.
Our approach to therapy is genuine, supportive, and solution-focused. We work collaboratively with you to build upon your strengths and find new ways to face challenges that lead to a more content and balanced life. Our experienced therapists treat ages 6 and older and use evidence-based treatments for a wide range of concerns, such as coping with chronic pain and medical conditions, mood swings, suicidal thoughts, self-harm urges, impulsivity, emotional reactivity, post-traumatic stress, difficulties in relationships, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life changes, and feeling stuck in achieving goals.
My purpose as a therapist is to walk with my clients through their explorations, their pain and their joy, providing support, understanding and unconditional positive regard.
At Thrive Counseling & Wellness, I have had extensive experience working with adults who experience chronic anxiety, depression, chronic pain, stress, relationship problems, self-esteem issues. I tend to take a client centered perspective; I utilize different therapies to suit each individual client's needs. It's not always about the specific theory but more about what can I do to assist the client in achieving the perspective, growth and success that they desire. My ultimate goal is to "walk with the client" as he/she processes, experiences and implements the tools needed to effect helpful change.
My purpose as a therapist is to walk with my clients through their explorations, their pain and their joy, providing support, understanding and unconditional positive regard.
At Thrive Counseling & Wellness, I have had extensive experience working with adults who experience chronic anxiety, depression, chronic pain, stress, relationship problems, self-esteem issues. I tend to take a client centered perspective; I utilize different therapies to suit each individual client's needs. It's not always about the specific theory but more about what can I do to assist the client in achieving the perspective, growth and success that they desire. My ultimate goal is to "walk with the client" as he/she processes, experiences and implements the tools needed to effect helpful change.
I take a compassionate, warm, and collaborative approach to connect with my clients and understand their goals for improving their quality of life. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, I can help you to feel empowered to face challenges in your life. I work with clients who have issues related to anxiety, stress, and depression. I also have specialized training in treating insomnia, chronic pain, coping with chronic illness, and coping with the stress of caring for a loved one with chronic illness.
I take a compassionate, warm, and collaborative approach to connect with my clients and understand their goals for improving their quality of life. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, I can help you to feel empowered to face challenges in your life. I work with clients who have issues related to anxiety, stress, and depression. I also have specialized training in treating insomnia, chronic pain, coping with chronic illness, and coping with the stress of caring for a loved one with chronic illness.
When working with clients with chronic illness Dr.
Dr. Andrew Beatty has over a decade of experience assisting adults and adolescents with life, work, and health-related issues. He specializes in the field of health psychology with an emphasis on the management of chronic pain and illness. Dr. Beatty believes that “feeling sick” provides an ideal opportunity for individuals to recognize that there is something more going on. Therapy can help discover underlying behavioral health concerns that may be manifesting through physical symptoms or pain. However, Dr. Beatty encourages individuals to be proactive with their behavioral health before physical manifestations develop.
When working with clients with chronic illness Dr.
Dr. Andrew Beatty has over a decade of experience assisting adults and adolescents with life, work, and health-related issues. He specializes in the field of health psychology with an emphasis on the management of chronic pain and illness. Dr. Beatty believes that “feeling sick” provides an ideal opportunity for individuals to recognize that there is something more going on. Therapy can help discover underlying behavioral health concerns that may be manifesting through physical symptoms or pain. However, Dr. Beatty encourages individuals to be proactive with their behavioral health before physical manifestations develop.
I provide therapy for adults, couples and families. Clients frequently are struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief and loss. My clients are often going thru a medical crisis, managing chronic pain or are dealing with a family member's illness. I also help clients who are grieving or who have issues with aging parents and need a plan and to deal with feelings of sadness. I am a registered nurse as well as a clinical social worker and have advanced training in medical family therapy. I am a very good listener and assist my clients in finding their strengths to help them move forward in life.
I provide therapy for adults, couples and families. Clients frequently are struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief and loss. My clients are often going thru a medical crisis, managing chronic pain or are dealing with a family member's illness. I also help clients who are grieving or who have issues with aging parents and need a plan and to deal with feelings of sadness. I am a registered nurse as well as a clinical social worker and have advanced training in medical family therapy. I am a very good listener and assist my clients in finding their strengths to help them move forward in life.
See more therapy options for Illinois
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.