Chronic Pain Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI

Photo of Laurie Schmit Mi Professional Counseling Services, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Schmit Mi Professional Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Waitlist for new clients
My focus areas are trauma, grief, anxiety, life adjustments, chronic pain/illnesses, health anxiety, professional development, burnout, and imposter syndrome.
Congratulations on taking this step towards lasting change! To have landed right here, right now, part of you is ready to do what's necessary to heal your past. We'll create the safety necessary to move through pain and into the freedom for you to take charge of your life. My style is compassionate & collaborative. I'm a strong Ally, and work well with diverse adults to move from surviving into thriving. I've worked extensively with helping professionals: counselors, MDs, PAs, nurses, OT/PT/STs, LMTs and love it! Mentoring MSWs is also a passion of mine, and I offer licensure and billing supervision and business consulting.
My focus areas are trauma, grief, anxiety, life adjustments, chronic pain/illnesses, health anxiety, professional development, burnout, and imposter syndrome.
Congratulations on taking this step towards lasting change! To have landed right here, right now, part of you is ready to do what's necessary to heal your past. We'll create the safety necessary to move through pain and into the freedom for you to take charge of your life. My style is compassionate & collaborative. I'm a strong Ally, and work well with diverse adults to move from surviving into thriving. I've worked extensively with helping professionals: counselors, MDs, PAs, nurses, OT/PT/STs, LMTs and love it! Mentoring MSWs is also a passion of mine, and I offer licensure and billing supervision and business consulting.
(616) 244-2638 View (616) 244-2638
Photo of Jason Rood, LMSW, MFA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jason Rood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MFA
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from Grand Valley State University and a Master of Fine Art in Painting from Virginia Commonwealth University. I seeks to provide individuals with a sense of safety, curiosity and platform for growth. Addressing experiences with trauma, chronic medical conditions, pain, depression, understanding identity, and anxiety. The primarily therapeutic processes I uses are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Somatic Experiencing (SE student with two years of training). The aim being to help individuals work on the relationship between mind, body and action.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from Grand Valley State University and a Master of Fine Art in Painting from Virginia Commonwealth University. I seeks to provide individuals with a sense of safety, curiosity and platform for growth. Addressing experiences with trauma, chronic medical conditions, pain, depression, understanding identity, and anxiety. The primarily therapeutic processes I uses are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Somatic Experiencing (SE student with two years of training). The aim being to help individuals work on the relationship between mind, body and action.
(616) 303-7626 View (616) 303-7626
Photo of Kathleen J Cramer, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Kathleen J Cramer
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Dr Cramer is a licensed clinical psychologist with 11 years of experience as a psychotherapist. She is also a registered nurse. She is a compassionate therapist who strives to create a close and supportive relationship with each patient. She has a strong belief in treating the whole person, utilizing psychotherapy with a focus on wellness, inner peace, spirituality and cultivating a deeper awareness with ones inner self. She has experience in the treatment of a wide range of problems, trauma and stress, relationship/marital or couple problems, issues related to chronic pain, and patients in recovery from substance abuse/addiction.
Dr Cramer is a licensed clinical psychologist with 11 years of experience as a psychotherapist. She is also a registered nurse. She is a compassionate therapist who strives to create a close and supportive relationship with each patient. She has a strong belief in treating the whole person, utilizing psychotherapy with a focus on wellness, inner peace, spirituality and cultivating a deeper awareness with ones inner self. She has experience in the treatment of a wide range of problems, trauma and stress, relationship/marital or couple problems, issues related to chronic pain, and patients in recovery from substance abuse/addiction.
(616) 920-0467 View (616) 920-0467
Photo of Holly DeVivo, MA, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly DeVivo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treatments called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and CBT for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP).
My goal as your therapist is to help you take control of your past, reduce its impact on your daily life, and increase your overall sense of wellbeing. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, and chronic pain/illness. These struggles are very often connected and by beginning the healing process, we can improve every aspect of our daily lives. As someone with a history of trauma and chronic illness, I understand these connections very well. During your time in therapy with me, you will get someone who understands on a personal level the difficulties you may be experiencing.
I specialize in treatments called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and CBT for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP).
My goal as your therapist is to help you take control of your past, reduce its impact on your daily life, and increase your overall sense of wellbeing. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, and chronic pain/illness. These struggles are very often connected and by beginning the healing process, we can improve every aspect of our daily lives. As someone with a history of trauma and chronic illness, I understand these connections very well. During your time in therapy with me, you will get someone who understands on a personal level the difficulties you may be experiencing.
(616) 841-9505 View (616) 841-9505
Photo of Melanie Fuentes, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Fuentes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in working with individuals facing life stressors including anxiety, grief, PTSD, chronic medical illness, trauma, and depression. I believe therapy is a process and a journey. We will walk together on this journey and work to process thoughts, emotions and learn new ways of responding to life’s challenges. When we embrace our ability to feel and experience hard things, we learn self-love, empathy, and peace. I enjoy working with clients and developing a relationship by actively listening, advocating, and assisting in change through evidence based practices while providing a safe space for healing and growth.
I specialize in working with individuals facing life stressors including anxiety, grief, PTSD, chronic medical illness, trauma, and depression. I believe therapy is a process and a journey. We will walk together on this journey and work to process thoughts, emotions and learn new ways of responding to life’s challenges. When we embrace our ability to feel and experience hard things, we learn self-love, empathy, and peace. I enjoy working with clients and developing a relationship by actively listening, advocating, and assisting in change through evidence based practices while providing a safe space for healing and growth.
(616) 208-4045 View (616) 208-4045
Photo of Justine E. Braford, LMSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justine E. Braford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
As a certified Sex Therapist, I work with many client issues and have a special interest in sexual dysfunction which includes: couples work, low libido, mismatched desire, pelvic pain disorders, affair recovery, issues of gender or sexual orientation, out-of-control sexual behaviors, and work with sexual abuse survivors.
*Currently CLOSED to new patients. Please email for referral options* I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Michigan State University and a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan with a speciality in Interpersonal Practice and Health. I completed my post-Graduate certificate in Sexual Health and Sex education at the University of Michigan and am a fully AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
As a certified Sex Therapist, I work with many client issues and have a special interest in sexual dysfunction which includes: couples work, low libido, mismatched desire, pelvic pain disorders, affair recovery, issues of gender or sexual orientation, out-of-control sexual behaviors, and work with sexual abuse survivors.
*Currently CLOSED to new patients. Please email for referral options* I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Michigan State University and a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan with a speciality in Interpersonal Practice and Health. I completed my post-Graduate certificate in Sexual Health and Sex education at the University of Michigan and am a fully AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.
(616) 899-4117 View (616) 899-4117
Photo of Jim Rossi, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Jim Rossi
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I enjoy working with individuals struggling with chronic illness, eating disorders, weight loss, anxiety, depression, interpersonal concerns, and general life stress. I understand that it can be extremely stressful to manage emotional or physical health concerns in our fast paced, high pressure society. Throughout my training, I have admired the people I have worked with who are making transitions and want to examine themselves, their past, and their interpersonal environment to make changes that work for them.
I enjoy working with individuals struggling with chronic illness, eating disorders, weight loss, anxiety, depression, interpersonal concerns, and general life stress. I understand that it can be extremely stressful to manage emotional or physical health concerns in our fast paced, high pressure society. Throughout my training, I have admired the people I have worked with who are making transitions and want to examine themselves, their past, and their interpersonal environment to make changes that work for them.
(616) 326-3249 View (616) 326-3249
Photo of Peter Koehn, PhD, Psychologist
Peter Koehn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525  (Online Only)
Koehn has received advanced training in psychological treatment for patients with chronic pain.
Dr. Peter Koehn is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience and extensive training in research. He has worked both in private practice and with the Veteran's Administration (retiring from the latter in 2020). Dr. Koehn finds much reward in treating individuals with Chronic Pain, Depression and Anxiety with evidence-based approaches, adhering closely to scientific model in working with her patients. He has also been affected by chronic pain, having spent several years suffering pain and is happy to help others undergoing stress related to this diagnosis.
Koehn has received advanced training in psychological treatment for patients with chronic pain.
Dr. Peter Koehn is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience and extensive training in research. He has worked both in private practice and with the Veteran's Administration (retiring from the latter in 2020). Dr. Koehn finds much reward in treating individuals with Chronic Pain, Depression and Anxiety with evidence-based approaches, adhering closely to scientific model in working with her patients. He has also been affected by chronic pain, having spent several years suffering pain and is happy to help others undergoing stress related to this diagnosis.
(616) 344-9894 View (616) 344-9894
Photo of Janet Claire Goldner, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Claire Goldner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I work with both couples and adults including those experiencing relationship stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, challenging life transitions, chronic illness as well as those struggling with the issues surrounding adoption.
As my favorite author Brene’ Brown said “You don’t have to go it alone, no one was meant to”. Life can be messy and the challenges and transitions that we all must travel through can be very burdensome. I’m here to help. I’m here to support. I’m here to facilitate you truly seeing the courage and strength inside. Cultivate calm- it may be easier than you think!
I work with both couples and adults including those experiencing relationship stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, challenging life transitions, chronic illness as well as those struggling with the issues surrounding adoption.
As my favorite author Brene’ Brown said “You don’t have to go it alone, no one was meant to”. Life can be messy and the challenges and transitions that we all must travel through can be very burdensome. I’m here to help. I’m here to support. I’m here to facilitate you truly seeing the courage and strength inside. Cultivate calm- it may be easier than you think!
(616) 577-8980 View (616) 577-8980
Photo of Kara Pettinger, LMSW, CPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara Pettinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan in 2011 and have extensive experience treating individuals with chronic health conditions, infertility and perinatal loss, perinatal mood disorders, pelvic pain, depression, anxiety, conflict in relationships, life and career transitions, healthcare clinicians, and corporate leaders.
First of all - I am so glad you are here. Reaching out for support can feel vulnerable and uncomfortable, but it's when we lean into those places of discomfort that growth can be found. I am inspired by IFS, mindfulness, CBT, self-compassion, and the work around shame and vulnerability and infuse each modality into my therapeutic work. I also value integrating the coaching philosophy into my therapeutic approach and I ultimately believe in the power of supporting each individual as a whole, unique person to create space for healing and overall well-being.
I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan in 2011 and have extensive experience treating individuals with chronic health conditions, infertility and perinatal loss, perinatal mood disorders, pelvic pain, depression, anxiety, conflict in relationships, life and career transitions, healthcare clinicians, and corporate leaders.
First of all - I am so glad you are here. Reaching out for support can feel vulnerable and uncomfortable, but it's when we lean into those places of discomfort that growth can be found. I am inspired by IFS, mindfulness, CBT, self-compassion, and the work around shame and vulnerability and infuse each modality into my therapeutic work. I also value integrating the coaching philosophy into my therapeutic approach and I ultimately believe in the power of supporting each individual as a whole, unique person to create space for healing and overall well-being.
(616) 441-0871 View (616) 441-0871
Photo of Bridget Gottlieb - Bridget Gottlieb, LMSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget Gottlieb, LMSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Even though transitions are a part of all of our lives, they sometimes stir up old pain or are just too overwhelming to navigate without some help. You deserve the time and support to work through it and counseling can provide that for you. I believe in a person centered, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral and strengths based counseling approach. I have over 18 years of experience using these approaches working with individuals of all ages dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, chronic illnesses and transitions at all stages of life.
Even though transitions are a part of all of our lives, they sometimes stir up old pain or are just too overwhelming to navigate without some help. You deserve the time and support to work through it and counseling can provide that for you. I believe in a person centered, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral and strengths based counseling approach. I have over 18 years of experience using these approaches working with individuals of all ages dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, chronic illnesses and transitions at all stages of life.
(616) 504-6856 View (616) 504-6856
Photo of Shannon Wendling, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Wendling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a variety of concerns including gender identity, chronic pain, chronic illness, trauma, self-esteem, grief and loss, ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
I acknowledge that making the decision to pursue therapy can be a really big step. Dedicating time and effort toward improving mental wellbeing and focusing on oneself is not an easy task. It is for this reason that I strive to provide a safe, compassionate, and nurturing environment in which clients can feel comfortable leaning into their vulnerabilities. I am dedicated to ensuring that anybody who visits my office feels seen, heard, and validated.
I work with a variety of concerns including gender identity, chronic pain, chronic illness, trauma, self-esteem, grief and loss, ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
I acknowledge that making the decision to pursue therapy can be a really big step. Dedicating time and effort toward improving mental wellbeing and focusing on oneself is not an easy task. It is for this reason that I strive to provide a safe, compassionate, and nurturing environment in which clients can feel comfortable leaning into their vulnerabilities. I am dedicated to ensuring that anybody who visits my office feels seen, heard, and validated.
(616) 947-3696 View (616) 947-3696
Photo of Megan Dietrich, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Dietrich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Do you feel overwhelmed? Filled with self-doubt and critical? Are you experiencing pain from chronic illness, trauma, or mental load? Are you navigating a spiritual shift or faith-based transition? Are you looking to reclaim your personal power and align your life with your values and aspirations? It's crucial to realize you're not alone. I'm here to guide you, offering resources and a safe space for exploration. Together, we can work towards healing, finding clarity, and creating a path towards personal growth and fulfillment. Take the first step and reach out to receive the support you deserve.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Filled with self-doubt and critical? Are you experiencing pain from chronic illness, trauma, or mental load? Are you navigating a spiritual shift or faith-based transition? Are you looking to reclaim your personal power and align your life with your values and aspirations? It's crucial to realize you're not alone. I'm here to guide you, offering resources and a safe space for exploration. Together, we can work towards healing, finding clarity, and creating a path towards personal growth and fulfillment. Take the first step and reach out to receive the support you deserve.
(616) 379-0797 View (616) 379-0797
Photo of Shelby K Negro, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelby K Negro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
In addition to anxiety, depression, trauma, & low self-esteem, I am passionate about working with those who have chronic pain conditions.
Do you struggle with anxiety? Maybe your heart races, you're experiencing intrusive thoughts, or struggling with low self-esteem? Do you ever find yourself depressed or feeling inadequate? Maybe you're feeling defeated & can't vocalize the discomfort you have, but you know you feel stuck. It can be exhausting trying to navigate such powerful emotions on your own! In therapy, I use a collaborative approach as I believe you already have the internal resources needed for healing, though it may be hidden under layers of doubt or self-protection. It's transformative to explore these layers and rewrite the narrative you have of yourself!
In addition to anxiety, depression, trauma, & low self-esteem, I am passionate about working with those who have chronic pain conditions.
Do you struggle with anxiety? Maybe your heart races, you're experiencing intrusive thoughts, or struggling with low self-esteem? Do you ever find yourself depressed or feeling inadequate? Maybe you're feeling defeated & can't vocalize the discomfort you have, but you know you feel stuck. It can be exhausting trying to navigate such powerful emotions on your own! In therapy, I use a collaborative approach as I believe you already have the internal resources needed for healing, though it may be hidden under layers of doubt or self-protection. It's transformative to explore these layers and rewrite the narrative you have of yourself!
(616) 208-2984 View (616) 208-2984
Photo of Trista Williams, LMSW , CAADC , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trista Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW , CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Hey there! I know that therapy can feel intimidating. My goal is to come alongside and partner with you while we work through the different pains that life can bring us. I have experience working with individuals going through various struggles: depression, anxiety, relational conflict, faith issues, substance use, stress, grief, chronic pain, life transitions, self esteem. My approach to therapy is person centered and based on individual needs and goals. I will take time to develop a relationship with you to build trust and have this be a safe space.
Hey there! I know that therapy can feel intimidating. My goal is to come alongside and partner with you while we work through the different pains that life can bring us. I have experience working with individuals going through various struggles: depression, anxiety, relational conflict, faith issues, substance use, stress, grief, chronic pain, life transitions, self esteem. My approach to therapy is person centered and based on individual needs and goals. I will take time to develop a relationship with you to build trust and have this be a safe space.
(616) 236-4110 View (616) 236-4110
Photo of Scott H. Glass, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Scott H. Glass
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49512
I have over 30 years of experience providing psychological services and have been employed in a number of different settings, including: psychiatry, primary care medicine, bariatric surgery, chronic pain and rehabilitation, hospital, and church settings.
I thoughtfully use cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) and a blend of other therapeutic approaches and your spiritual beliefs (when desired) to help you improve your thoughts, behaviors, emotions, relationships, and quality of life. I particularly enjoy working with health-related issues, along with anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns.
I have over 30 years of experience providing psychological services and have been employed in a number of different settings, including: psychiatry, primary care medicine, bariatric surgery, chronic pain and rehabilitation, hospital, and church settings.
I thoughtfully use cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) and a blend of other therapeutic approaches and your spiritual beliefs (when desired) to help you improve your thoughts, behaviors, emotions, relationships, and quality of life. I particularly enjoy working with health-related issues, along with anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns.
(616) 205-9807 x151 View (616) 205-9807 x151
Photo of Rachel J. Hipp, LMSW, MA, AcHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel J. Hipp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MA, AcHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
There is hope and healing waiting for you! It's time to uncover the patterns that are holding you back from reaching your highest potential and find healing at the root cause of your pain.
Flipping through the latest Netflix releases, you search endlessly for the next "binge-worthy" series to numb you out for the rest of the weekend. This has been your default for far too long. You know all of the things you are “supposed” to be doing. You’ve tried all the self-help tricks, but you feel stuck in your head and unable to move forward in your life. You’ve had glimmers of the life you want before, but it always seems just out of reach.
There is hope and healing waiting for you! It's time to uncover the patterns that are holding you back from reaching your highest potential and find healing at the root cause of your pain.
Flipping through the latest Netflix releases, you search endlessly for the next "binge-worthy" series to numb you out for the rest of the weekend. This has been your default for far too long. You know all of the things you are “supposed” to be doing. You’ve tried all the self-help tricks, but you feel stuck in your head and unable to move forward in your life. You’ve had glimmers of the life you want before, but it always seems just out of reach.
(616) 319-4450 View (616) 319-4450
Photo of Melissa A Lidderdale, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Melissa A Lidderdale
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49544
Not accepting new clients
I also specialize in treating chronic pain, mood disorders, relational concerns, coping with illness, and life transitions.
Life presents us with challenges and opportunities that sometimes require consultation. Often, change and healing are facilitated by assistance from caring others. I have repeatedly witnessed the resiliency of the human spirit. I am eager to meet with clients motivated for change and curious about the possibility of having more satisfying lives. I believe that psychotherapy requires trust and a working relationship. I am a compassionate listener and tailor my approach to best match the uniqueness of each client. I approach problems from a strengths-based, holistic perspective that considers a client's relevant biological, developmental, social, and cultural factors.
I also specialize in treating chronic pain, mood disorders, relational concerns, coping with illness, and life transitions.
Life presents us with challenges and opportunities that sometimes require consultation. Often, change and healing are facilitated by assistance from caring others. I have repeatedly witnessed the resiliency of the human spirit. I am eager to meet with clients motivated for change and curious about the possibility of having more satisfying lives. I believe that psychotherapy requires trust and a working relationship. I am a compassionate listener and tailor my approach to best match the uniqueness of each client. I approach problems from a strengths-based, holistic perspective that considers a client's relevant biological, developmental, social, and cultural factors.
Photo of Nicholas J Comai, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicholas J Comai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506  (Online Only)
Adults with anxiety, depression, PTSD, adjustment disorders (difficult life transitions), mood/emotion management struggles, and substance use disorders, paired with LGBTQIA stressors, equality/diversity advocacy, relationship challenges, young adult/professional struggles, performance pressure/stress, chronic pain/physical health conditions,and grief/loss.
I began my journey into the helping profession by directly reaching out to individuals experiencing chronic homelessness in the streets, camps, and surrounding areas of Grand Traverse County as a member of a local Street Outreach team. I continued by earning both bachelor and master degrees in clinical social work from Ferris State University, while gathering diverse experience in a range of settings and roles in the Kent County area; including community living supports, family case management, inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, crisis residential, home-based family therapy, outpatient individual therapy, and private practice.
Adults with anxiety, depression, PTSD, adjustment disorders (difficult life transitions), mood/emotion management struggles, and substance use disorders, paired with LGBTQIA stressors, equality/diversity advocacy, relationship challenges, young adult/professional struggles, performance pressure/stress, chronic pain/physical health conditions,and grief/loss.
I began my journey into the helping profession by directly reaching out to individuals experiencing chronic homelessness in the streets, camps, and surrounding areas of Grand Traverse County as a member of a local Street Outreach team. I continued by earning both bachelor and master degrees in clinical social work from Ferris State University, while gathering diverse experience in a range of settings and roles in the Kent County area; including community living supports, family case management, inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, crisis residential, home-based family therapy, outpatient individual therapy, and private practice.
(616) 427-1938 View (616) 427-1938
Photo of Carrie Pappas, MA LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Carrie Pappas
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA LLP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
With over 20 years of experience working in the mental health field, I have extensive training and experience working with individuals to manage symptoms of anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, and PTSD. Often these symptoms can be overwhelming and cause additional difficulties with sleep disturbance and disordered eating leading to increased illness and pain related conditions. Working together we can discover your strengths, build upon existing skills while adding new ones, and find livable and workable solutions for a more inspired future.
With over 20 years of experience working in the mental health field, I have extensive training and experience working with individuals to manage symptoms of anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, and PTSD. Often these symptoms can be overwhelming and cause additional difficulties with sleep disturbance and disordered eating leading to increased illness and pain related conditions. Working together we can discover your strengths, build upon existing skills while adding new ones, and find livable and workable solutions for a more inspired future.
(616) 345-3644 View (616) 345-3644
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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.