Chronic Pain Therapists in Worcester County, MA
The Practice for Well-Being and Psychotherapy provides a safe place to address the stressful and emotional aspects of life. Stress is a natural part of life and when stress persists it takes a toll on the mind and body in many ways. Some of the life areas we work with clients to address include the emotional aspects of living with physical illness, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, family conflicts and grief. Through this work people often find empowering and creative ways to successfully manage emotional stressors.
The Practice for Well-Being and Psychotherapy provides a safe place to address the stressful and emotional aspects of life. Stress is a natural part of life and when stress persists it takes a toll on the mind and body in many ways. Some of the life areas we work with clients to address include the emotional aspects of living with physical illness, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, family conflicts and grief. Through this work people often find empowering and creative ways to successfully manage emotional stressors.
I also specialize in counseling people with chronic pain who often have anxiety, depression, PTSD or substance use as well.
To be human is to have joy and struggle. That being said, sometimes when people make every effort to do their best in life, they still have hard times for many reasons. Sometimes people seek out a professional counselor for help with mental health issues, substance abuse issues or other aspects of life that are difficult to manage alone. Hopefully, by engaging in counseling you will get help in developing and meeting your individual goals and finding solutions to many facets of life that have been difficult, e.g., mental health, life transitions, grief, etc.
I also specialize in counseling people with chronic pain who often have anxiety, depression, PTSD or substance use as well.
To be human is to have joy and struggle. That being said, sometimes when people make every effort to do their best in life, they still have hard times for many reasons. Sometimes people seek out a professional counselor for help with mental health issues, substance abuse issues or other aspects of life that are difficult to manage alone. Hopefully, by engaging in counseling you will get help in developing and meeting your individual goals and finding solutions to many facets of life that have been difficult, e.g., mental health, life transitions, grief, etc.
Latoya Scott
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545 (Online Only)
If you're experiencing family conflict and stressors, parenting challenges, chronic pain, anxiety, racing thoughts, prolonged sadness and depression, distress due to traumatic experiences, changes in your self beliefs and identity, persistent fearfulness, grief, mood disorders, or you've been trying to gain as much control over your life as possible due to other chronic mental illness, I am here for you!
If you're experiencing family conflict and stressors, parenting challenges, chronic pain, anxiety, racing thoughts, prolonged sadness and depression, distress due to traumatic experiences, changes in your self beliefs and identity, persistent fearfulness, grief, mood disorders, or you've been trying to gain as much control over your life as possible due to other chronic mental illness, I am here for you!
Kayla Christie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01604 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a dedicated social worker passionate about working with adolescents, adults, and those struggling with chronic pain. Chronic pain can be persistent and debilitating which deeply impacts our mental health. As a person living with fibromyalgia, I am acutely aware to the day to day struggles chronic pain can bring. It’s important to me that I work with a comprehensive approach to treatment that addresses and recognizes the mind-body connection. Additionally, I use evidence based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, trauma-informed care, mindfulness, and a focus on strengths to guide my practice.
Hello! I am a dedicated social worker passionate about working with adolescents, adults, and those struggling with chronic pain. Chronic pain can be persistent and debilitating which deeply impacts our mental health. As a person living with fibromyalgia, I am acutely aware to the day to day struggles chronic pain can bring. It’s important to me that I work with a comprehensive approach to treatment that addresses and recognizes the mind-body connection. Additionally, I use evidence based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, trauma-informed care, mindfulness, and a focus on strengths to guide my practice.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the assessment and treatment of addictions, substance use problems, anxiety and mood disorders, and persistent pain conditions. My therapeutic approach is built on thoughtful collaboration as a foundation for meaningful and lasting change. I believe that therapy is most effective when approached in a supportive and flexible manner and grounded in the most up-to-date evidence-based treatments. In terms of substance use/addictions, I work with clients to carefully identify and work toward their goals regardless of moderation or abstinence.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the assessment and treatment of addictions, substance use problems, anxiety and mood disorders, and persistent pain conditions. My therapeutic approach is built on thoughtful collaboration as a foundation for meaningful and lasting change. I believe that therapy is most effective when approached in a supportive and flexible manner and grounded in the most up-to-date evidence-based treatments. In terms of substance use/addictions, I work with clients to carefully identify and work toward their goals regardless of moderation or abstinence.
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
Brittany Ford Petty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, E-RYT, IINHC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01609
It is with gratitude that I hold space for you. The therapeutic relationship is an important tool used to build a solid and trusting relationship with yourself, the world around you, and the people within it. I work with humans who may be struggling to cope with life's unpredictable and impermanent nature, with life transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma, and other forms of emotional pain. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore patterns of thinking and living that have hindered your growth and prevented you from engaging wholeheartedly in your life.
It is with gratitude that I hold space for you. The therapeutic relationship is an important tool used to build a solid and trusting relationship with yourself, the world around you, and the people within it. I work with humans who may be struggling to cope with life's unpredictable and impermanent nature, with life transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma, and other forms of emotional pain. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore patterns of thinking and living that have hindered your growth and prevented you from engaging wholeheartedly in your life.
Jori Berger-Greenstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northborough, MA 01532 (Online Only)
Other areas of expertise include trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder for people coping with a wide range of painful experiences, and helping people cope with medical conditions, ranging from chronic pain to HIV to cancer.
I am a clinical psychologist practicing for more than two decades. My approach is to provide a safe and comfortable space in which clients can share their worries, concerns, and fears that are part of daily living. I use cognitive-behavioral treatment, which emphasizes the importance of how we understand events, ourselves, and others; these affect our feelings and the way we go about our daily lives. The goal is to improve insight AND making changes to improve our quality of life. Many of my clients struggle with adjusting to difficult situations, and want to move forward from difficult situations that affect day-to-day life.
Other areas of expertise include trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder for people coping with a wide range of painful experiences, and helping people cope with medical conditions, ranging from chronic pain to HIV to cancer.
I am a clinical psychologist practicing for more than two decades. My approach is to provide a safe and comfortable space in which clients can share their worries, concerns, and fears that are part of daily living. I use cognitive-behavioral treatment, which emphasizes the importance of how we understand events, ourselves, and others; these affect our feelings and the way we go about our daily lives. The goal is to improve insight AND making changes to improve our quality of life. Many of my clients struggle with adjusting to difficult situations, and want to move forward from difficult situations that affect day-to-day life.
Heather Carcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01605 (Online Only)
Hi I’m Heather, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience specializing in grief, caregiver support, chronic illness, separations, and work/school stress.
Currently on a waitlist. Feeling kind of blah? Are you experiencing a life transition due to grief, illness, caregiving, partner separation, parenthood, college or work? If you’re feeling exhausted, foggy, forgetful, sad, anxious, disconnected, indecisive and “stuck”, you are experiencing some of the most common and difficult symptoms associated with adjustment. Imagine feeling more energized, relieved, small sparks of excitement. Feeling more connected to yourself and what/who is important. Small steps to rewiring your thoughts and how we approach situations can create lasting change.
Hi I’m Heather, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience specializing in grief, caregiver support, chronic illness, separations, and work/school stress.
Currently on a waitlist. Feeling kind of blah? Are you experiencing a life transition due to grief, illness, caregiving, partner separation, parenthood, college or work? If you’re feeling exhausted, foggy, forgetful, sad, anxious, disconnected, indecisive and “stuck”, you are experiencing some of the most common and difficult symptoms associated with adjustment. Imagine feeling more energized, relieved, small sparks of excitement. Feeling more connected to yourself and what/who is important. Small steps to rewiring your thoughts and how we approach situations can create lasting change.
I am a bilingual (Spanish-English) Clinical Psychologist that specializes in the impact of medical conditions (diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, chronic pain, endocrine problems, STD's, cancer, liver transplant, kidney transplant, among others) in the psychological, social and emotional wellbeing of the patients and families. I also specialize in depression, anxiety, adjustment process, life stressors, grief and loss, and smoking cessation.
I am a bilingual (Spanish-English) Clinical Psychologist that specializes in the impact of medical conditions (diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, chronic pain, endocrine problems, STD's, cancer, liver transplant, kidney transplant, among others) in the psychological, social and emotional wellbeing of the patients and families. I also specialize in depression, anxiety, adjustment process, life stressors, grief and loss, and smoking cessation.
Lindsay Brady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northborough, MA 01532
Although my primary clinical focus is in the treatment of eating disorders with a sub-specialty in trauma treatment; I also work with many other co-morbid symptoms and diagnoses such as depression/anxiety, negative body image, grief/loss, anger management, and chronic pain or illness.
It takes courage and self awareness to seek support for your stress, and I'm continually honored by the individuals I serve in my practice for their willingness to open up to me. I strive to create a welcoming, non-judgmental environment that can enhance the process of therapeutic change. All people find themselves "stuck" at times, and through empathy and validation I work to create a path towards hope and healing for my clients.
Although my primary clinical focus is in the treatment of eating disorders with a sub-specialty in trauma treatment; I also work with many other co-morbid symptoms and diagnoses such as depression/anxiety, negative body image, grief/loss, anger management, and chronic pain or illness.
It takes courage and self awareness to seek support for your stress, and I'm continually honored by the individuals I serve in my practice for their willingness to open up to me. I strive to create a welcoming, non-judgmental environment that can enhance the process of therapeutic change. All people find themselves "stuck" at times, and through empathy and validation I work to create a path towards hope and healing for my clients.
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Mary Ludy, LMHC, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01609 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a senior, experienced and ethical psychotherapist who works with adults, couples and families within the context of individual, group and couples therapy. My work with you is strength-based and solution-focused and will help you with coping and self-help strategies, communication and conflict resolution skills, resolve emotional conflicts, and increase satisfaction with your life and functioning. I treat all mood illnesses and adjustment disorders, such as life stages, transitions, and negative stressors. I'm experienced with extensive and diverse populations and cultures, and have knowledge with illness and disabilities.
I am a senior, experienced and ethical psychotherapist who works with adults, couples and families within the context of individual, group and couples therapy. My work with you is strength-based and solution-focused and will help you with coping and self-help strategies, communication and conflict resolution skills, resolve emotional conflicts, and increase satisfaction with your life and functioning. I treat all mood illnesses and adjustment disorders, such as life stages, transitions, and negative stressors. I'm experienced with extensive and diverse populations and cultures, and have knowledge with illness and disabilities.
ShaQuan Read Counseling & Consulting
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Westborough, MA 01581 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The process of learning ourselves & diving into the depth of our pain is not a path that we must take alone. In our practice it is our privilege to travel alongside you to support your growth, understanding, and acceptance during this part of your journey. to achieve your therapeutic goals. We offer EMDR Intensive Therapy sessions. It can be difficult to resolve a feeling issue with a thinking solution, so we utilize healing modalities that allow us to get to the core of the issues you are facing. "I learned long ago that in order to heal my wounds I must have the courage to face them” – Paulo Coelho.
The process of learning ourselves & diving into the depth of our pain is not a path that we must take alone. In our practice it is our privilege to travel alongside you to support your growth, understanding, and acceptance during this part of your journey. to achieve your therapeutic goals. We offer EMDR Intensive Therapy sessions. It can be difficult to resolve a feeling issue with a thinking solution, so we utilize healing modalities that allow us to get to the core of the issues you are facing. "I learned long ago that in order to heal my wounds I must have the courage to face them” – Paulo Coelho.
My practice is centered around compassion, personal warmth and care, and a strong conviction that you can overcome the pain and difficulties in your life.
I believe that coming to therapy when your life is not proceeding in the way you wish is a courageous and important step in building the life you want. Although it is sometimes difficult or frightening to make that first phone call, it's a strong sign of your belief in yourself and your desire to live fully and joyfully. I respect the decision to begin therapy and understand that it's sometimes a hard step that requires great courage. I firmly believe that however you're feeling now, there is a capacity for healing, change, and joy within you.
My practice is centered around compassion, personal warmth and care, and a strong conviction that you can overcome the pain and difficulties in your life.
I believe that coming to therapy when your life is not proceeding in the way you wish is a courageous and important step in building the life you want. Although it is sometimes difficult or frightening to make that first phone call, it's a strong sign of your belief in yourself and your desire to live fully and joyfully. I respect the decision to begin therapy and understand that it's sometimes a hard step that requires great courage. I firmly believe that however you're feeling now, there is a capacity for healing, change, and joy within you.
Anna-dora Maloney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westborough, MA 01581 (Online Only)
Using a blend of behavioral health techniques including person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology, and mindfulness and meditation, I have helped clients navigate pain and difficulties they have experienced and have helped clients to make the changes they want in their lives.
We all go through challenging times and it takes a great deal of courage to face these challenges and move forward. My passion is working with adults of all ages who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, a life transition, a loss or an illness. I work with each of my clients to identify tools and strategies that they can use to address these difficulties, feel better, and lead a more fulfilling life in whatever way they hope to. I believe that each person has inner strength and resilience that they can increase, and that you are stronger than you think.
Using a blend of behavioral health techniques including person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology, and mindfulness and meditation, I have helped clients navigate pain and difficulties they have experienced and have helped clients to make the changes they want in their lives.
We all go through challenging times and it takes a great deal of courage to face these challenges and move forward. My passion is working with adults of all ages who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, a life transition, a loss or an illness. I work with each of my clients to identify tools and strategies that they can use to address these difficulties, feel better, and lead a more fulfilling life in whatever way they hope to. I believe that each person has inner strength and resilience that they can increase, and that you are stronger than you think.
Accepting New Clients. I have been a social worker for 23 years servicing clients who are coping with life's difficulties and challenges. I believe in meeting you where you are at, and then assisting you to progress to where you want to be. I will guarantee you a safe, non-judgmental space to talk where you will be treated with respect and dignity. My experience encompasses many issues that face us on a daily basis, including, grief & loss, anxiety & depression, trauma, weight loss & self-esteem issues., chronic & terminal illness, and narcissistic abuse recovery. Telehealth/In-person sessions offered.
Accepting New Clients. I have been a social worker for 23 years servicing clients who are coping with life's difficulties and challenges. I believe in meeting you where you are at, and then assisting you to progress to where you want to be. I will guarantee you a safe, non-judgmental space to talk where you will be treated with respect and dignity. My experience encompasses many issues that face us on a daily basis, including, grief & loss, anxiety & depression, trauma, weight loss & self-esteem issues., chronic & terminal illness, and narcissistic abuse recovery. Telehealth/In-person sessions offered.
Synergy's clinical team has the following specialties and can assist you with: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Chronic Pain/ Illness, Addiction, Relationship Issues, Parenting Concerns, Identity Exploration, Grief/Bereavement, Life Review, Academic and Career Transitions, Racial Identity Development, Racial Trauma.
Synergy Wellness Center supports the emotional, physical, and spiritual health of wellness seekers, with a distinct focus on caregiver support. Whether you are caring for loved ones, or are a caregiver by profession, Synergy's seasoned team of mental health clinicians offer an eclectic array of clinical approaches to address anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and many other areas. Areas of expertise include DBT, DBT, Expressive Arts Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and more. Our team serves adults, youth, couples, and families. We look forward to serving you at our Hudson and Bolton locations and via telehealth.
Synergy's clinical team has the following specialties and can assist you with: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Chronic Pain/ Illness, Addiction, Relationship Issues, Parenting Concerns, Identity Exploration, Grief/Bereavement, Life Review, Academic and Career Transitions, Racial Identity Development, Racial Trauma.
Synergy Wellness Center supports the emotional, physical, and spiritual health of wellness seekers, with a distinct focus on caregiver support. Whether you are caring for loved ones, or are a caregiver by profession, Synergy's seasoned team of mental health clinicians offer an eclectic array of clinical approaches to address anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and many other areas. Areas of expertise include DBT, DBT, Expressive Arts Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and more. Our team serves adults, youth, couples, and families. We look forward to serving you at our Hudson and Bolton locations and via telehealth.
OCD Specialist, Shane MacDonald, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Leominster, MA 01453 (Online Only)
Our broad goal––of course––is “the end of unnecessary suffering.” Sound about right? While we all strive for this, I specialize in helping folks with a very-unique kind of suffering: OCD. I can tell you that few people understand the pain and complexity of OCD—(even most therapists). I will listen intently to your unique story. Just know that I can introduce you to an arsenal of tools that can help: mindfulness, ERP (exposure and response prevention) and on and on. Yes, thoughts can be “sticky.” But––with hard work––if (or when) those thoughts come back around…they can be as quiet & as harmless as a yellow post-it.
Our broad goal––of course––is “the end of unnecessary suffering.” Sound about right? While we all strive for this, I specialize in helping folks with a very-unique kind of suffering: OCD. I can tell you that few people understand the pain and complexity of OCD—(even most therapists). I will listen intently to your unique story. Just know that I can introduce you to an arsenal of tools that can help: mindfulness, ERP (exposure and response prevention) and on and on. Yes, thoughts can be “sticky.” But––with hard work––if (or when) those thoughts come back around…they can be as quiet & as harmless as a yellow post-it.
I am trained in CBT, DBT skills, pain management, and my work is trauma-sensitive.
Sometimes we know we need to make a change and it takes us a while to be ready for it. Sometimes things happen in our lives that require us to get immediate support. Whether it's needing a compassionate ear to listen to us, some new coping strategies to deal with ongoing stressors, or guidance on even where to start, we can all benefit from counseling. I am prepared to guide you through this process and work on your goals, whether long term or immediate.
I am trained in CBT, DBT skills, pain management, and my work is trauma-sensitive.
Sometimes we know we need to make a change and it takes us a while to be ready for it. Sometimes things happen in our lives that require us to get immediate support. Whether it's needing a compassionate ear to listen to us, some new coping strategies to deal with ongoing stressors, or guidance on even where to start, we can all benefit from counseling. I am prepared to guide you through this process and work on your goals, whether long term or immediate.
Park View Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01605 (Online Only)
Is stress/anxiety preventing you from getting more enjoyment out of life? I can help you manage it better so you're able to focus on the things that are important to you. Diagnosed with cancer or other serious illness? I can help you cope with that & incorporate it into your day-to-day life. Other areas of focus include couples counseling, workplace issues, relationship issues, behavioral concerns, & parenting. Adapting to a new normal takes time and in some instances takes help. Counseling is one way to receive that help. Now accepting new clients and now also offering 20-minute check-ins.
Is stress/anxiety preventing you from getting more enjoyment out of life? I can help you manage it better so you're able to focus on the things that are important to you. Diagnosed with cancer or other serious illness? I can help you cope with that & incorporate it into your day-to-day life. Other areas of focus include couples counseling, workplace issues, relationship issues, behavioral concerns, & parenting. Adapting to a new normal takes time and in some instances takes help. Counseling is one way to receive that help. Now accepting new clients and now also offering 20-minute check-ins.
See more therapy options for Worcester County
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.