Chronic Pain Therapists in Saugatuck, MI

Photo of Shelby K Negro, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelby K Negro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Saugatuck, MI 49453
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 Beth Cherin, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth Cherin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saugatuck, MI 49453
I invite you to a safe space where you can learn to trust, speak your truth and realize your potential for emotional growth and change. I believe in the human spirit and ones ability to discover the answers to difficult questions. I have a passion for working with shy, introverted and highly sensitive people as well as caregivers.
I invite you to a safe space where you can learn to trust, speak your truth and realize your potential for emotional growth and change. I believe in the human spirit and ones ability to discover the answers to difficult questions. I have a passion for working with shy, introverted and highly sensitive people as well as caregivers.
(231) 335-1718 View (231) 335-1718
Photo of Jeffrey Konfara - Konfara Counseling and Supervision, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Konfara Counseling and Supervision
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saugatuck, MI 49453
People enter into a counseling relationship when nothing else seems to be working. Although most people soon make comments such as, “(Counseling) was a lot better than I thought it would be”, few people seek counseling as a first option. More often we seek out techniques that either help us to temporarily avoid (e.g., media, social networking) our anxiety, or we seek temporary shots of pleasure (e.g., alcohol, food, pornography) that make us feel good for a short time. Soon enough we realize that all of these things leave us feeling more hollow and lonely, and that is when we start thinking about counseling.
People enter into a counseling relationship when nothing else seems to be working. Although most people soon make comments such as, “(Counseling) was a lot better than I thought it would be”, few people seek counseling as a first option. More often we seek out techniques that either help us to temporarily avoid (e.g., media, social networking) our anxiety, or we seek temporary shots of pleasure (e.g., alcohol, food, pornography) that make us feel good for a short time. Soon enough we realize that all of these things leave us feeling more hollow and lonely, and that is when we start thinking about counseling.
(616) 310-4614 View (616) 310-4614
Photo of Sara A. Showalter Van Tongeren, MSW, LMSW, BSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara A. Showalter Van Tongeren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, BSP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Saugatuck, MI 49453  (Online Only)
Life brings many changing seasons that present new challenges and struggles. Throughout the seasons of life, you can find meaning and hope. People who decide to reach out and seek to find meaning and hope are courageous. It can be difficult to be honest and look at your life's path; however, I am continually amazed at each client's strength and desire for freedom in their life. I thoroughly enjoy providing additional support that can meet each client's needs. I primarily work with female-identifying adults who are wanting to rediscover their identity and increase their own sense of empowerment.
Life brings many changing seasons that present new challenges and struggles. Throughout the seasons of life, you can find meaning and hope. People who decide to reach out and seek to find meaning and hope are courageous. It can be difficult to be honest and look at your life's path; however, I am continually amazed at each client's strength and desire for freedom in their life. I thoroughly enjoy providing additional support that can meet each client's needs. I primarily work with female-identifying adults who are wanting to rediscover their identity and increase their own sense of empowerment.
(616) 827-7807 View (616) 827-7807
Photo of Roland Hart, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Roland Hart
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saugatuck, MI 49453
Experiencing an emotional or personal issue that is restricting your ability to enjoy life? I help clients work on those things that are getting in the way, such as, problematic emotional, behavioral or relational patterns, stress, and symptoms of depression and anxiety. Life is really hard at times and it can help to have some extra support, especially, if you are feeling alone, isolated or finding that others don't really understand. NOTE: I am now offering tele-therapy over video as an option for therapy.
Experiencing an emotional or personal issue that is restricting your ability to enjoy life? I help clients work on those things that are getting in the way, such as, problematic emotional, behavioral or relational patterns, stress, and symptoms of depression and anxiety. Life is really hard at times and it can help to have some extra support, especially, if you are feeling alone, isolated or finding that others don't really understand. NOTE: I am now offering tele-therapy over video as an option for therapy.
(616) 552-4486 View (616) 552-4486
Photo of Theresa Ortiz Butler - Turtle Path Counseling PLLC - Theresa Butler, LMSW, LCSW, LMSW, IMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Turtle Path Counseling PLLC - Theresa Butler, LMSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, IMHP
Verified Verified
Saugatuck, MI 49453
Exhaustion and stress can often impact your mood and ability to manage expectations and responsibilities. At Turtle Path, you will have the chance to unpack struggles and concerns with a seasoned professional who goes beyond traditional methods to address emotional, psychological and relational concerns. Turtle Path is a relaxed therapy environment that is welcoming and inclusive; a place where you can slow down to process your thoughts, feelings, and life situations toward healing and growth.
Exhaustion and stress can often impact your mood and ability to manage expectations and responsibilities. At Turtle Path, you will have the chance to unpack struggles and concerns with a seasoned professional who goes beyond traditional methods to address emotional, psychological and relational concerns. Turtle Path is a relaxed therapy environment that is welcoming and inclusive; a place where you can slow down to process your thoughts, feelings, and life situations toward healing and growth.
(616) 300-2846 View (616) 300-2846

More Therapists Nearby

Jean Veenema-Birky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glenn, MI 49416
"Experienced, professional services in a private setting.
"Experienced, professional services in a private setting.
(269) 409-1979 View (269) 409-1979
Photo of Amanda Grace Vollmer, LLMSW, CAADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Grace Vollmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, CAADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Douglas, MI 49406
Hello! Life has a way of coming at us in the most unpredictable, unimaginable ways. As such, it can make the most "put-together-person" crumble. If you are feeling overwhelmed, scared, angry, confused, alone, helpless, worthless, stressed, lost, sad.... you've come to the right place. It happens to most of us and that's what makes us human. We make mistakes, we fall down, we get hurt, life is messy, and it gets to be too much and is seemingly unmanageable for us. With some help, we will go through the process of rebuilding, stand back up and then become stronger than we were before.
Hello! Life has a way of coming at us in the most unpredictable, unimaginable ways. As such, it can make the most "put-together-person" crumble. If you are feeling overwhelmed, scared, angry, confused, alone, helpless, worthless, stressed, lost, sad.... you've come to the right place. It happens to most of us and that's what makes us human. We make mistakes, we fall down, we get hurt, life is messy, and it gets to be too much and is seemingly unmanageable for us. With some help, we will go through the process of rebuilding, stand back up and then become stronger than we were before.
(616) 537-6880 View (616) 537-6880
Photo of Julie Ball, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Ball
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Douglas, MI 49406
Safety, trust and empathy is the foundation of our therapeutic relationship. These features eventually become part of the catalyst to your growth. As a psychodynamic psychotherapist, our work together entails deep conversation about your thoughts, feelings, experiences and life story. I lead with compassion, curiosity and deep respect. Never losing sight of the honor it is to walk alongside you on your journey. I enjoy working with people seeking to better understand themselves while struggling with; anxiety, trauma, life transitions, depression and relationship issues. I am particularly well versed in grief, loss, death and dying.
Safety, trust and empathy is the foundation of our therapeutic relationship. These features eventually become part of the catalyst to your growth. As a psychodynamic psychotherapist, our work together entails deep conversation about your thoughts, feelings, experiences and life story. I lead with compassion, curiosity and deep respect. Never losing sight of the honor it is to walk alongside you on your journey. I enjoy working with people seeking to better understand themselves while struggling with; anxiety, trauma, life transitions, depression and relationship issues. I am particularly well versed in grief, loss, death and dying.
(616) 202-3846 View (616) 202-3846
Photo of Joshua Rooks, PhD, Psychologist
Joshua Rooks
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I am a clinical psychologist / neuropsychologist with expertise in providing both therapy and evaluations addressing a wide range of psychological and neurocognitive disorders. I specialize in working with individuals and their family/caregivers managing chronic health conditions. While drawing from evidence-based practices (e.g., CBT, ACT, CPT, MBCT), my approach to treatment is grounded in authenticity, collaboration, and the creation of a safe and welcoming space from which to assist each individual in reaching their unique goals.
I am a clinical psychologist / neuropsychologist with expertise in providing both therapy and evaluations addressing a wide range of psychological and neurocognitive disorders. I specialize in working with individuals and their family/caregivers managing chronic health conditions. While drawing from evidence-based practices (e.g., CBT, ACT, CPT, MBCT), my approach to treatment is grounded in authenticity, collaboration, and the creation of a safe and welcoming space from which to assist each individual in reaching their unique goals.
(786) 305-6990 View (786) 305-6990
Photo of Janet Laing, LMSW, CAADC, CCS-M, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Laing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, CCS-M
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
You have taken a very important first step by considering going to therapy and looking into your options for a provider. I came to join the Advanced Counseling practice after working at an agency dedicated to the treatment of individuals with substance use disorders. I worked in the treatment of addictions for over twenty five years, which allowed me to help a great many people with a wide variety of issues. I think therapy is the process of making connections and having a safe space to explore, express and renew.
You have taken a very important first step by considering going to therapy and looking into your options for a provider. I came to join the Advanced Counseling practice after working at an agency dedicated to the treatment of individuals with substance use disorders. I worked in the treatment of addictions for over twenty five years, which allowed me to help a great many people with a wide variety of issues. I think therapy is the process of making connections and having a safe space to explore, express and renew.
(616) 512-2566 View (616) 512-2566
Photo of Jenna Nienhuis, MDiv, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Nienhuis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LMSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
Whether you are seeking treatment for depression, anxiety, managing a chronic condition, grief and loss, parenting challenges, traumatic experiences, or personal growth; psychotherapy is an effective and evidence-based way to move toward greater health, healing, and emotional wellness at any age. I am a therapist who is passionate about empowering others to discover and live into their truest selves. A hallmark of my practice is drawing on a breadth of training and experience to offer an individualized, effective, and safe therapeutic environment for all.
Whether you are seeking treatment for depression, anxiety, managing a chronic condition, grief and loss, parenting challenges, traumatic experiences, or personal growth; psychotherapy is an effective and evidence-based way to move toward greater health, healing, and emotional wellness at any age. I am a therapist who is passionate about empowering others to discover and live into their truest selves. A hallmark of my practice is drawing on a breadth of training and experience to offer an individualized, effective, and safe therapeutic environment for all.
(616) 201-3335 View (616) 201-3335
Photo of Ugne Paalksnyte-Alt, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ugne Paalksnyte-Alt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423  (Online Only)
Is life feeing more complicated and challenging than usual? Sometimes, an outside perspective or someone to walk along with you through a challenge is needed. I am dedicated to helping empower individuals to meet their goals. My approach focuses on developing coping skills, assisting in creating a long-term plan, and getting down in the trenches with you to help find a way out. I am committed to providing a confidential, safe, person centered and nonjudgmental environment where you can openly share your thoughts, feelings, struggles, and goals.
Is life feeing more complicated and challenging than usual? Sometimes, an outside perspective or someone to walk along with you through a challenge is needed. I am dedicated to helping empower individuals to meet their goals. My approach focuses on developing coping skills, assisting in creating a long-term plan, and getting down in the trenches with you to help find a way out. I am committed to providing a confidential, safe, person centered and nonjudgmental environment where you can openly share your thoughts, feelings, struggles, and goals.
(616) 201-0954 View (616) 201-0954

Online Therapists

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
Shelley B. Smithson
Psychologist, PhD, MSW
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823  (Online Only)
I listen intensely and I interact quite a bit as well, offering observations and interpretations and stating what I believe is causing pain.
People are sometimes challenged by turbulent emotions, transitions, losses or chronic mood issues. The day to day experience of emotional distress or an underlying sense of uneasiness affect vitality and are difficult to endure over time. Verbal dialogue within a relationship designed for you to freely express yourself, explore feelings and discover unconscious factors impacting you describes the change process of psychotherapy. I have seen many individuals over the years not only have symptom relief but find new paths while shedding patterns of disabling emotions, thoughts and behavior.
I listen intensely and I interact quite a bit as well, offering observations and interpretations and stating what I believe is causing pain.
People are sometimes challenged by turbulent emotions, transitions, losses or chronic mood issues. The day to day experience of emotional distress or an underlying sense of uneasiness affect vitality and are difficult to endure over time. Verbal dialogue within a relationship designed for you to freely express yourself, explore feelings and discover unconscious factors impacting you describes the change process of psychotherapy. I have seen many individuals over the years not only have symptom relief but find new paths while shedding patterns of disabling emotions, thoughts and behavior.
(517) 565-0161 View (517) 565-0161
Photo of Lissa Perkins, PsyD, Psychologist
Lissa Perkins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
My specialty areas include using EMDR and other evidence-based treatments to work with clients to recover from trauma, grief, and chronic pain/illnesses.
You are ready to find a better way to end your emotional and physical pain. Successful clients of EMDR learn to change old habits of thoughts and behaviors so you can have a life with less suffering and more joy. Let me help you heal and grow with love, compassion and humor! Studies in EMDR psychotherapy shows that the mind can in fact heal from psychological trauma much as the body recovers from physical trauma. EMDR therapy has been recognized as an effective form of treatment by the World Health Organization and the Veterans Administration. Email me today. I will try to return your emails within 48 business hours.
My specialty areas include using EMDR and other evidence-based treatments to work with clients to recover from trauma, grief, and chronic pain/illnesses.
You are ready to find a better way to end your emotional and physical pain. Successful clients of EMDR learn to change old habits of thoughts and behaviors so you can have a life with less suffering and more joy. Let me help you heal and grow with love, compassion and humor! Studies in EMDR psychotherapy shows that the mind can in fact heal from psychological trauma much as the body recovers from physical trauma. EMDR therapy has been recognized as an effective form of treatment by the World Health Organization and the Veterans Administration. Email me today. I will try to return your emails within 48 business hours.
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Photo of Vince Carter, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vince Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Big Rapids, MI 49307  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Men navigating a new job, relationships, fatherhood, ideas of masculinity, or men struggling with pain, retirement, and life adjustments.
When a man needs to fix a car, he finds the right tools. But when a man is feeling unwell on the inside, our society says, 'Man up!' – which is never the answer. Men by nature are problem-solvers, but without the right coping tools, you might be stuck. Shame or pride can hold you back, but don’t let it. Most of the men I work with say going to therapy was the best decision they made to truly solve problems, restore hope, and reclaim their lives. Let me help you to drive your relationships toward intention, passion and purpose.
Men navigating a new job, relationships, fatherhood, ideas of masculinity, or men struggling with pain, retirement, and life adjustments.
When a man needs to fix a car, he finds the right tools. But when a man is feeling unwell on the inside, our society says, 'Man up!' – which is never the answer. Men by nature are problem-solvers, but without the right coping tools, you might be stuck. Shame or pride can hold you back, but don’t let it. Most of the men I work with say going to therapy was the best decision they made to truly solve problems, restore hope, and reclaim their lives. Let me help you to drive your relationships toward intention, passion and purpose.
(231) 525-4461 View (231) 525-4461
Photo of Susan R. Brenner, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Susan R. Brenner
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Not Verified Not Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I am interested in treating clients that are struggling with chronic illness &/or pain, self-esteem issues, depression, grief, stress and anxiety in a relaxing environment.
I hope you will find working with me to be rewarding, educational and helpful. I am comfortable working with adolescents, men, women and senior citizens. You will receive counseling in a non-judgmental, relaxing and peaceful environment. Life can be a journey that is sometimes filled with struggles. I am here to help navigate that journey and learn some new techniques to get back on the path to a joyful life.
I am interested in treating clients that are struggling with chronic illness &/or pain, self-esteem issues, depression, grief, stress and anxiety in a relaxing environment.
I hope you will find working with me to be rewarding, educational and helpful. I am comfortable working with adolescents, men, women and senior citizens. You will receive counseling in a non-judgmental, relaxing and peaceful environment. Life can be a journey that is sometimes filled with struggles. I am here to help navigate that journey and learn some new techniques to get back on the path to a joyful life.
(616) 379-3041 View (616) 379-3041
Photo of Raymond Maurer, LLMSW, MDiv, DMin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raymond Maurer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, MDiv, DMin
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48911
This has proven beneficial for depression, anxiety, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, chronic pain, relationship issues, and addictions.
Hello, I am so glad you are caring for yourself or someone else by seeking growth and healing. At times, all of us find ourselves needing help or a greater sense of hope and purpose. I am honored to accompany you on a healing journey and listen to your needs. I believe you can overcome any obstacle to your goals as we tap into your skills and strengths and seek guidance from evidence-based practices. I will work with you to customize a plan to clarify and reach your goals leading to lasting change.
This has proven beneficial for depression, anxiety, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, chronic pain, relationship issues, and addictions.
Hello, I am so glad you are caring for yourself or someone else by seeking growth and healing. At times, all of us find ourselves needing help or a greater sense of hope and purpose. I am honored to accompany you on a healing journey and listen to your needs. I believe you can overcome any obstacle to your goals as we tap into your skills and strengths and seek guidance from evidence-based practices. I will work with you to customize a plan to clarify and reach your goals leading to lasting change.
(517) 901-7193 View (517) 901-7193
Photo of Patricia Howe, LMSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Howe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Life has seasons of joy and happiness and seasons of pain, struggle, or loss.
40 years as a mental health therapist. Being Seen. Being Heard. Working Together. Feeling Safe and Respected. Whether you're navigating the daunting journey of early adulthood, embracing the challenges of singlehood, balancing the demands of career growth and parenting, or seeking to redefine your life post-divorce, I am here to support you. I love helping individuals gracefully navigate the complexities of aging. I am also deeply compassionate of those managing chronic medical conditions. I understand how this stress can impact self-perception and the ability to live a fulfilling life.
Life has seasons of joy and happiness and seasons of pain, struggle, or loss.
40 years as a mental health therapist. Being Seen. Being Heard. Working Together. Feeling Safe and Respected. Whether you're navigating the daunting journey of early adulthood, embracing the challenges of singlehood, balancing the demands of career growth and parenting, or seeking to redefine your life post-divorce, I am here to support you. I love helping individuals gracefully navigate the complexities of aging. I am also deeply compassionate of those managing chronic medical conditions. I understand how this stress can impact self-perception and the ability to live a fulfilling life.
(616) 557-7664 View (616) 557-7664

See more therapy options for Saugatuck

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.