Chronic Pain Therapists in Bridgeton, NJ

Photo of Caroline Kushner, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Kushner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, NJ 08302  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Caroline. I am pleased to be here and looking forward to meeting you. My primary goal is that you feel comfortable expressing anything you need to talk about. I believe most of our feelings and thoughts are universal but at the same time, many of us feel judged and therefore remain secretive. We often shrug off our thoughts due to shame and each time we do this we are further away from healing. Personal growth starts with self-acceptance. In a judgmental world, many of us remain hidden and maybe in emotional pain. It is important to be able to talk freely. Make peace with ourselves and grow from there.
Hi, my name is Caroline. I am pleased to be here and looking forward to meeting you. My primary goal is that you feel comfortable expressing anything you need to talk about. I believe most of our feelings and thoughts are universal but at the same time, many of us feel judged and therefore remain secretive. We often shrug off our thoughts due to shame and each time we do this we are further away from healing. Personal growth starts with self-acceptance. In a judgmental world, many of us remain hidden and maybe in emotional pain. It is important to be able to talk freely. Make peace with ourselves and grow from there.
(609) 312-5048 View (609) 312-5048
Photo of Cheryl Loddo, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Loddo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, NJ 08302
Life is not always easy. Often it can feel like an emotional roller coaster with its ups and downs. Life experiences whether traumatic or stressful can have an impact on our emotions, relationships, and mental well-being. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, or any other issues know there is always hope for a better tomorrow. I am passionate about helping people strengthen their abilities to manage life’s challenges and I am committed to providing high quality care to individuals. I provide a judgment free environment where you can learn about yourself and work towards your goals. Lets work together.
Life is not always easy. Often it can feel like an emotional roller coaster with its ups and downs. Life experiences whether traumatic or stressful can have an impact on our emotions, relationships, and mental well-being. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, or any other issues know there is always hope for a better tomorrow. I am passionate about helping people strengthen their abilities to manage life’s challenges and I am committed to providing high quality care to individuals. I provide a judgment free environment where you can learn about yourself and work towards your goals. Lets work together.
(856) 644-6314 View (856) 644-6314
Photo of Margaret M Strosser, LCSW, MSS, MFA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret M Strosser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS, MFA
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, NJ 08302  (Online Only)
Do you need a safe space to process your emotions without judgement? I help people unravel what has happened to them, understand themselves, and develop compassion toward themselves and their loved ones.
Do you need a safe space to process your emotions without judgement? I help people unravel what has happened to them, understand themselves, and develop compassion toward themselves and their loved ones.
(484) 310-9171 View (484) 310-9171
Photo of Tammy E. Vaughn, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy E. Vaughn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, NJ 08302
Hi, my name is Tammy Vaughn. My clients, whether children or adults, tell me they feel comfortable with me because I'm friendly and relatable. My client centered approach is important to me because I believe that clients must feel heard, understood and helped. After a crisis, my clients often reach out to me again because they need support and to be heard or to create a plan. Some clients have requested a spiritual or Christian focus to their counseling, which is another area I can help you better understand. I provide a safe space to share problems and work on your goals. I hope to help you soon!
Hi, my name is Tammy Vaughn. My clients, whether children or adults, tell me they feel comfortable with me because I'm friendly and relatable. My client centered approach is important to me because I believe that clients must feel heard, understood and helped. After a crisis, my clients often reach out to me again because they need support and to be heard or to create a plan. Some clients have requested a spiritual or Christian focus to their counseling, which is another area I can help you better understand. I provide a safe space to share problems and work on your goals. I hope to help you soon!
(856) 558-7043 View (856) 558-7043

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Linda M Kandle, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda M Kandle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vineland, NJ 08360
Not accepting new clients
"Happiness is not a destination, it is a way of getting there." Because life is difficult at times, the support and guidance of a therapist now and then can help create a clearer path. My approach is to create a partnership in a safe environment that will allow clients to confront obstacles, conflicts and fears that impede happiness. Sometimes this is a solo journey or one you take with a partner or family. Learning new skills, expanding your vision and beliefs, trusting your own innate wisdom can help you find more contentment even in the face of life's challenges.
"Happiness is not a destination, it is a way of getting there." Because life is difficult at times, the support and guidance of a therapist now and then can help create a clearer path. My approach is to create a partnership in a safe environment that will allow clients to confront obstacles, conflicts and fears that impede happiness. Sometimes this is a solo journey or one you take with a partner or family. Learning new skills, expanding your vision and beliefs, trusting your own innate wisdom can help you find more contentment even in the face of life's challenges.
(856) 375-8540 View (856) 375-8540
Photo of Lauren Stuart, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Stuart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millville, NJ 08332  (Online Only)
We all experience times in our lives when we are going through a difficult period and need extra support. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings by providing supportive and compassionate care. I utilize a client-centered, strengths-based and holistic approach along with other treatment modalities. I believe change is possible and that the nature of the therapeutic relationship can assist in the healing process.
We all experience times in our lives when we are going through a difficult period and need extra support. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings by providing supportive and compassionate care. I utilize a client-centered, strengths-based and holistic approach along with other treatment modalities. I believe change is possible and that the nature of the therapeutic relationship can assist in the healing process.
(856) 326-2337 View (856) 326-2337
Photo of Clarissa DeLuca, LAC, Counselor
Clarissa DeLuca
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Alloway, NJ 08001  (Online Only)
One of the life lessons I have learned through my practice and life experiences is that we may know what the next right thing may be, but getting there oftentimes requires support, guidance, and self-trust. I truly believe we are all doing the very best we can with our present skill sets. Sometimes we may already have existing support systems and still may not know which path to choose. Other times we feel alone in moving forward and confused about if our choices are “right.” This is where I am hoping to help support you. I am a believer in the team effort.
One of the life lessons I have learned through my practice and life experiences is that we may know what the next right thing may be, but getting there oftentimes requires support, guidance, and self-trust. I truly believe we are all doing the very best we can with our present skill sets. Sometimes we may already have existing support systems and still may not know which path to choose. Other times we feel alone in moving forward and confused about if our choices are “right.” This is where I am hoping to help support you. I am a believer in the team effort.
(609) 928-8066 View (609) 928-8066

Online Therapists

Photo of Amanda Cusa, MSW, LSW
Amanda Cusa
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
My specialties include working with adolescents and adult that are experiencing one of the following: life transitions that are difficult to cope with, trauma, chronic illness/pain, anxiety, depression, existential and stage-of-life issues, and stress that has been difficult to manage on your own.
I believe strongly that we all have the capacity for positive change, no matter where we start out. Therapy should provide a warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental space in which clients can explore new goals, solutions, and ways of being. I seek to empower clients by fostering greater awareness and understanding of their thoughts, behaviors, environments, and interpersonal patterns. My approach is tailored to each person and their needs, but often incorporates concepts from Cognitive-Behavioral, Interpersonal, and Person-Centered therapies, as well as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques.
My specialties include working with adolescents and adult that are experiencing one of the following: life transitions that are difficult to cope with, trauma, chronic illness/pain, anxiety, depression, existential and stage-of-life issues, and stress that has been difficult to manage on your own.
I believe strongly that we all have the capacity for positive change, no matter where we start out. Therapy should provide a warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental space in which clients can explore new goals, solutions, and ways of being. I seek to empower clients by fostering greater awareness and understanding of their thoughts, behaviors, environments, and interpersonal patterns. My approach is tailored to each person and their needs, but often incorporates concepts from Cognitive-Behavioral, Interpersonal, and Person-Centered therapies, as well as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques.
(609) 312-5395 View (609) 312-5395
Photo of Samantha Campanella, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Campanella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C
Verified Verified
Wall Township, NJ 07719
You are not alone! If you are searching for help managing feelings of anxiety, depression, or if you have been through trauma or even managing chronic illness, help is available! Together, we can get through it and reach your goals! Many changes come with the onset of these issues, and it can be debilitating to a person's lifestyle, self-esteem, relationships, and mental health. Together, we can process these changes, address fears, and collaborate to work as a team. I am certified in working with mood disorders as well as adjustment and chronic illness. I'm happy to help, and excited to help bring healing to your life!
You are not alone! If you are searching for help managing feelings of anxiety, depression, or if you have been through trauma or even managing chronic illness, help is available! Together, we can get through it and reach your goals! Many changes come with the onset of these issues, and it can be debilitating to a person's lifestyle, self-esteem, relationships, and mental health. Together, we can process these changes, address fears, and collaborate to work as a team. I am certified in working with mood disorders as well as adjustment and chronic illness. I'm happy to help, and excited to help bring healing to your life!
(732) 978-9520 View (732) 978-9520
Photo of Brian L Burgess, PhD, Psychologist
Brian L Burgess
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Dr. Burgess is a counseling psychologist and the owner of BB Counseling. Dr. Burgess received his Bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts. Upon graduation, he went on to receive his Master's Degree and Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Seton Hall University. Dr. Burgess treats a variety of disorders including but not limited to anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, ocd, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, anger, chronic pain, marriage counseling, and parental counseling. Treatment also includes psychological evaluations for bariatric surgery, spinal cord stimulators, and long term pain medication.
Dr. Burgess is a counseling psychologist and the owner of BB Counseling. Dr. Burgess received his Bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts. Upon graduation, he went on to receive his Master's Degree and Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Seton Hall University. Dr. Burgess treats a variety of disorders including but not limited to anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, ocd, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, anger, chronic pain, marriage counseling, and parental counseling. Treatment also includes psychological evaluations for bariatric surgery, spinal cord stimulators, and long term pain medication.
(732) 655-6138 View (732) 655-6138
Photo of Kristen Accisano, MSW, LCSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Accisano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
Manasquan, NJ 08736
As a board certified case manager, I also offer care management and counseling for those who are being treated for a chronic or terminal illness, and their family members who are helping to manage their care.
We experience life transitions and periods of loss and grief throughout our lives. I am particularly interested helping you with the issues that we experience as we grow older and also in helping families cope with those issues that we face as our loved ones age. Caring for loved ones with aging disorders such as dementia can create chronic stress, anxiety, depression and burnout for even the most capable. You may be feeling unable to care for yourself, your own family and career. If you are feeling depleted and overwhelmed we can work collaboratively to discover a story of change, resilience, and hope.
As a board certified case manager, I also offer care management and counseling for those who are being treated for a chronic or terminal illness, and their family members who are helping to manage their care.
We experience life transitions and periods of loss and grief throughout our lives. I am particularly interested helping you with the issues that we experience as we grow older and also in helping families cope with those issues that we face as our loved ones age. Caring for loved ones with aging disorders such as dementia can create chronic stress, anxiety, depression and burnout for even the most capable. You may be feeling unable to care for yourself, your own family and career. If you are feeling depleted and overwhelmed we can work collaboratively to discover a story of change, resilience, and hope.
(732) 561-5990 View (732) 561-5990
Photo of Sharon J Land, MS, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Sharon J Land
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960  (Online Only)
If you are finding barriers in your life that are preventing you from being able to fully show up as yourself, have experienced trauma, are having difficulty relating to others, suffer from chronic illness, experience pain, anxiety, depression, PTSD/CPTSD, and are looking for compassionate, solution-focused therapy.
Hello, I am so glad you’re here. My name is Sharon and I am a Holistic Therapist, Spiritualist and Intuitive who provides safe and inclusive, open-minded and service-rich experiences that facilitate transformative and sustainable healing for my clients. Congratulations on making the first step towards change. I realize this is a big step, and having been on both sides of the chair, I know how important it is to feel a good connection and trust with your therapist. I am a solution-focused Trauma specialist who combines clinical modalities that include (but aren’t limited to) Somatic, Quantum Metaphysics & Energy Healing.
If you are finding barriers in your life that are preventing you from being able to fully show up as yourself, have experienced trauma, are having difficulty relating to others, suffer from chronic illness, experience pain, anxiety, depression, PTSD/CPTSD, and are looking for compassionate, solution-focused therapy.
Hello, I am so glad you’re here. My name is Sharon and I am a Holistic Therapist, Spiritualist and Intuitive who provides safe and inclusive, open-minded and service-rich experiences that facilitate transformative and sustainable healing for my clients. Congratulations on making the first step towards change. I realize this is a big step, and having been on both sides of the chair, I know how important it is to feel a good connection and trust with your therapist. I am a solution-focused Trauma specialist who combines clinical modalities that include (but aren’t limited to) Somatic, Quantum Metaphysics & Energy Healing.
(551) 292-7796 View (551) 292-7796
Photo of Liz Marshall: Emdr Intensives, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Marshall: Emdr Intensives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Prior experience has been supporting individuals navigating sexual trauma, DV/IPV, clergy/spiritual abuse, purity culture deconstruction, chronic pain, medical trauma, LGBTQIA+ matters, vicarious trauma, and grief.
My approach as a therapist is relational & warm & I deeply honor the intentional time set aside by each of my clients to engage in the courageous work of change. As a trauma-informed provider, I work to co-create a compassionate and non-judgmental space & value offering clients transparency, power, & choice in our work together. Clients have shared that our work together has empowered them to feel safer in their bodies & emotions, set healthier boundaries & advocate for their needs, understand origins of beliefs & behaviors, create space to discover & practice new responses, & ultimately reclaim agency in their voice & life story.
Prior experience has been supporting individuals navigating sexual trauma, DV/IPV, clergy/spiritual abuse, purity culture deconstruction, chronic pain, medical trauma, LGBTQIA+ matters, vicarious trauma, and grief.
My approach as a therapist is relational & warm & I deeply honor the intentional time set aside by each of my clients to engage in the courageous work of change. As a trauma-informed provider, I work to co-create a compassionate and non-judgmental space & value offering clients transparency, power, & choice in our work together. Clients have shared that our work together has empowered them to feel safer in their bodies & emotions, set healthier boundaries & advocate for their needs, understand origins of beliefs & behaviors, create space to discover & practice new responses, & ultimately reclaim agency in their voice & life story.
(732) 641-6814 View (732) 641-6814
Photo of Jacqueline Pidich, LPC, ACS, LPAT, ATR- BC, ATCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacqueline Pidich
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, LPAT, ATR- BC, ATCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somerset, NJ 08875  (Online Only)
We are living in very different times. Are stress, depression and anxiety eating you alive? Are you feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or lonely, despite all of your attempts at handling life alone? You deserve a break, and you owe it to yourself to try! I can help you with the transitions you face due to Covid, the change in seasons, college and job stress, break ups, divorce, raising kids, coming out as LGBT and, or chronic pain. I get it you may not know where to start. I myself have overcome many life's challenges. Breathe and take a shot! ... Art Therapy and talk therapy can provide a sense of relief, and I am here to support you!
We are living in very different times. Are stress, depression and anxiety eating you alive? Are you feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or lonely, despite all of your attempts at handling life alone? You deserve a break, and you owe it to yourself to try! I can help you with the transitions you face due to Covid, the change in seasons, college and job stress, break ups, divorce, raising kids, coming out as LGBT and, or chronic pain. I get it you may not know where to start. I myself have overcome many life's challenges. Breathe and take a shot! ... Art Therapy and talk therapy can provide a sense of relief, and I am here to support you!
(609) 436-9416 View (609) 436-9416
Photo of Jennifer Bristol, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Bristol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, NJ 07748
Are you looking to cope with the daily anxieties of life? Are day to day tasks overwhelming and piling up? At Embracing Stages, I work with a variety of patients who are trying to cope with the stressors of everyday life. Whether it be chronic or terminal illness, caring for a loved one, grief, or the general expectations of life, I believe that the pursuit of happiness and acceptance is something we all want. You are not a diagnosis. YOU and your life can be so much more. Don't let this stage of life be the reason for you suffer.
Are you looking to cope with the daily anxieties of life? Are day to day tasks overwhelming and piling up? At Embracing Stages, I work with a variety of patients who are trying to cope with the stressors of everyday life. Whether it be chronic or terminal illness, caring for a loved one, grief, or the general expectations of life, I believe that the pursuit of happiness and acceptance is something we all want. You are not a diagnosis. YOU and your life can be so much more. Don't let this stage of life be the reason for you suffer.
(551) 228-0923 View (551) 228-0923
Photo of Josephine S Minardo, PsyD, Psychologist
Josephine S Minardo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton Square, NJ 08690  (Online Only)
diabetes, chronic pain, MS, dementia, etc.
Understanding that psychotherapy is such a personal matter, I feel the best approach is one that is very patient centered. That means I tailor therapy to meet the individual needs of each client. I believe in working together collaboratively to set achievable therapy goals toward the desired outcome of therapy, so you can experience greater happiness, stability and a more meaningful life. I have experience in multiple treatment modalities & utilize an integrative approach so that I can apply what will be most effective and best suited to you. Most clients find this approach helpful and sensitive to their needs. I know you will too.
diabetes, chronic pain, MS, dementia, etc.
Understanding that psychotherapy is such a personal matter, I feel the best approach is one that is very patient centered. That means I tailor therapy to meet the individual needs of each client. I believe in working together collaboratively to set achievable therapy goals toward the desired outcome of therapy, so you can experience greater happiness, stability and a more meaningful life. I have experience in multiple treatment modalities & utilize an integrative approach so that I can apply what will be most effective and best suited to you. Most clients find this approach helpful and sensitive to their needs. I know you will too.
(609) 201-1290 View (609) 201-1290
Photo of Lisa Lucas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Lucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watchung, NJ 07069
Lisa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families on a variety of issues: anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional defiance and conduct disorders, trauma, grief and loss, different forms of abuse, and adjustment disorders. Lisa also is knowledgeable in the fields of learning disorders and special education, autism, adoption and foster care, separation/ divorce/blended families, chronic health issues, and chronic pain. She has advanced certification in Adoption Studies. Lisa is licensed in New Jersey, Massachusetts and Connecticut.
Lisa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families on a variety of issues: anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional defiance and conduct disorders, trauma, grief and loss, different forms of abuse, and adjustment disorders. Lisa also is knowledgeable in the fields of learning disorders and special education, autism, adoption and foster care, separation/ divorce/blended families, chronic health issues, and chronic pain. She has advanced certification in Adoption Studies. Lisa is licensed in New Jersey, Massachusetts and Connecticut.
(732) 592-2594 View (732) 592-2594
Photo of Maria Brent, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria Brent
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westmont, NJ 08108
Welcome...I work with adults who are stuck in emotional pain: anxiety, depression, anger, feelings of worthlessness, relationship problems. My goals are to decrease suffering and to give you the tools to live more richly and fully for the rest of your life, long after therapy ends. I create a safe place of respect and compassion for you to do the work of getting better. I am with you, supporting you, as you learn and practice the new skills and behaviors that help you live YOUR LIFE fully and with greater strength, resilience, and purpose. Suffering decreases and life enlarges.
Welcome...I work with adults who are stuck in emotional pain: anxiety, depression, anger, feelings of worthlessness, relationship problems. My goals are to decrease suffering and to give you the tools to live more richly and fully for the rest of your life, long after therapy ends. I create a safe place of respect and compassion for you to do the work of getting better. I am with you, supporting you, as you learn and practice the new skills and behaviors that help you live YOUR LIFE fully and with greater strength, resilience, and purpose. Suffering decreases and life enlarges.
(856) 712-0976 View (856) 712-0976
Photo of Cathleen Lawrence, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathleen Lawrence
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Forked River, NJ 08731
Waitlist for new clients
I treat adults and geriatrics suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, chronic pain, relationship issues, grief and loss.
Whether you already struggle with mental health symptoms or find yourself experiencing new feelings of anxiety, fear, depression or disconnect during this difficult time in our world, I can guide you in processing and gaining insight into troublesome thoughts, new sensations and range of emotions. I consider myself a client centered and relational therapist. I believe in the importance of building a strong therapeutic relationship in a safe environment in order to achieve meaningful growth.
I treat adults and geriatrics suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, chronic pain, relationship issues, grief and loss.
Whether you already struggle with mental health symptoms or find yourself experiencing new feelings of anxiety, fear, depression or disconnect during this difficult time in our world, I can guide you in processing and gaining insight into troublesome thoughts, new sensations and range of emotions. I consider myself a client centered and relational therapist. I believe in the importance of building a strong therapeutic relationship in a safe environment in order to achieve meaningful growth.
(848) 242-8295 View (848) 242-8295
Photo of Fidel Loverton - Psychotherapy; Addiction; Psychological Counseling, LCADC, LPC, CRS, FAPA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Psychotherapy; Addiction; Psychological Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC, LPC, CRS, FAPA
Verified Verified
North Brunswick, NJ 08902
Practices that include modalities with Eclectic theoretical orientation. Counseling everyone regardless of background purely on presenting health issues. Using integrative approach to whole person restoration of functioning. Mindfulness, Cognitive,Logotherapy, Motivational Interviewing. Transfigurative Hypnotherapy is strictly for pain management, sleep disorder, anxiety and relaxation. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). We proudly embrace the ethical values of the APA, AACC, ACA and NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors) that respectively advice counselor to practice within their competencies (training).
Practices that include modalities with Eclectic theoretical orientation. Counseling everyone regardless of background purely on presenting health issues. Using integrative approach to whole person restoration of functioning. Mindfulness, Cognitive,Logotherapy, Motivational Interviewing. Transfigurative Hypnotherapy is strictly for pain management, sleep disorder, anxiety and relaxation. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). We proudly embrace the ethical values of the APA, AACC, ACA and NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors) that respectively advice counselor to practice within their competencies (training).
(732) 983-5313 View (732) 983-5313

See more therapy options for Bridgeton

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.