Chronic Pain Therapists in Clackamas County, OR
![Photo of Paul Guinther, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c78d77e8-33ea-4fea-a972-06566af3bfa2/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed psychologist I am able to help people who are struggling with a variety of health concerns, including chronic pain, trauma/PTSD, persistent complex bereavement (impairing grief lasting more than one year), anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship issues.
Your pain is a key that can unlock the door to a better life. As a psychologist, I work to help you turn that key- to help open yourself to the compassion, enjoyment, and fulfillment that are waiting for you. I can help you through life's problems using evidence based therapy, meaning we will practice techniques that science has shown work when people commit to the process. I use a form of cognitive behavioral therapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which has been shown by research to be effective not only in reducing suffering but also in increasing life satisfaction.
As a licensed psychologist I am able to help people who are struggling with a variety of health concerns, including chronic pain, trauma/PTSD, persistent complex bereavement (impairing grief lasting more than one year), anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship issues.
Your pain is a key that can unlock the door to a better life. As a psychologist, I work to help you turn that key- to help open yourself to the compassion, enjoyment, and fulfillment that are waiting for you. I can help you through life's problems using evidence based therapy, meaning we will practice techniques that science has shown work when people commit to the process. I use a form of cognitive behavioral therapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which has been shown by research to be effective not only in reducing suffering but also in increasing life satisfaction.
![Photo of Rose Walker, PCA, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f88268ee-bbf1-4175-b2bf-e87fabd0e29a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older, who are experiencing trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain and chronic illness.
My goal as a counselor is to assist you in your journey of living a more authentic and fulfilling life. I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older. My approach to counseling is person-centered, providing a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering space for you to explore the challenges and patterns preventing you from achieving your goals and to discover your unique path for spiritual, emotional, social, and mental wellness. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques, depending upon each individual’s needs, informed by CBT, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally-Focused Individual Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older, who are experiencing trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain and chronic illness.
My goal as a counselor is to assist you in your journey of living a more authentic and fulfilling life. I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older. My approach to counseling is person-centered, providing a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering space for you to explore the challenges and patterns preventing you from achieving your goals and to discover your unique path for spiritual, emotional, social, and mental wellness. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques, depending upon each individual’s needs, informed by CBT, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally-Focused Individual Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
![Photo of Stephen Boyd, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9890de1b-dbdf-47f5-b6fb-88d652977402/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have specialized training in health psychology, treating conditions such as insomnia, chronic pain, tinnitus, and smoking cessation.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adults and adolescents with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and alcohol use. My approach is highly interpersonal and humanistic. This means that I adopt a compassionate and non-judgmental view with my clients, and strive to build a relationship of trust and understanding. I exclusively use evidenced-based treatments that have been thoroughly tested and found to be effective for improving mental health concerns. Together, we will develop new ways for you to cope with and resolve the issues that prompted you to seek care.
I have specialized training in health psychology, treating conditions such as insomnia, chronic pain, tinnitus, and smoking cessation.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adults and adolescents with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and alcohol use. My approach is highly interpersonal and humanistic. This means that I adopt a compassionate and non-judgmental view with my clients, and strive to build a relationship of trust and understanding. I exclusively use evidenced-based treatments that have been thoroughly tested and found to be effective for improving mental health concerns. Together, we will develop new ways for you to cope with and resolve the issues that prompted you to seek care.
![Photo of Katie Solomon, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d48c04cb-5767-4a7b-ba8a-de873d6a7ac1/3/320x400.png)
I have experience working with trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem, chronic pain/illness, attachment/relational concerns, and other mental health concerns.
As a trauma-informed, somatic, and relational therapist, I approach therapy with a lot of curiosity, gentleness, and eagerness to explore what is happening for clients in the present moment. I often encourage clients to check in with the sensations in their bodies and may highlight patterns I notice. I strive to create a non-judgmental space where clients can access and explore their emotions and experiences, enabling a deeper connection to themselves and others. I also like to bring (appropriate) humor into sessions. I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is a key part of the process!
I have experience working with trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem, chronic pain/illness, attachment/relational concerns, and other mental health concerns.
As a trauma-informed, somatic, and relational therapist, I approach therapy with a lot of curiosity, gentleness, and eagerness to explore what is happening for clients in the present moment. I often encourage clients to check in with the sensations in their bodies and may highlight patterns I notice. I strive to create a non-judgmental space where clients can access and explore their emotions and experiences, enabling a deeper connection to themselves and others. I also like to bring (appropriate) humor into sessions. I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is a key part of the process!
![Photo of Angee Gilchrist-Stewart, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47180d9c-e355-488e-908f-6a22c931dda8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angee Gilchrist-Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222 (Online Only)
Other specialized skills and interests: phobia, stress, sports and test performance, body dysmorphia, panic, complex trauma, PTSD, grief, pain disorders, OCD, Health At Every Size, creative blocks, psychogenic non-epileptic seizures.
Each of us is unique and has encountered challenges that shape who we are. Sometimes, we need someone to talk to and hold space for us. Sometimes we need someone who will challenge our perspective to help shift the way we have been looking at a problem. Sometimes we need someone to come down into the rabbit hole with us and help us find our way out. Let's find meaningful, intentional ways for you to engage with and live your life fully. I offer a safe, confidential space to navigate your concerns with a down-to-earth, open-minded, and objective, highly trained professional.
Other specialized skills and interests: phobia, stress, sports and test performance, body dysmorphia, panic, complex trauma, PTSD, grief, pain disorders, OCD, Health At Every Size, creative blocks, psychogenic non-epileptic seizures.
Each of us is unique and has encountered challenges that shape who we are. Sometimes, we need someone to talk to and hold space for us. Sometimes we need someone who will challenge our perspective to help shift the way we have been looking at a problem. Sometimes we need someone to come down into the rabbit hole with us and help us find our way out. Let's find meaningful, intentional ways for you to engage with and live your life fully. I offer a safe, confidential space to navigate your concerns with a down-to-earth, open-minded, and objective, highly trained professional.
![Photo of Gwen Welch-Slaff - The Healing Haven, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e4d7d64-89c4-49a9-8655-bf3ffa7f3167/3/320x400.jpeg)
Our approach to therapy is tailored toward each unique person, family or couple. We see people with difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, recovery from trauma, parenting issues, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and weight issues, chronic pain, career decisions and addictions. Our approach is a combination of traditional techniques and heart centered deep healing. Our approach geared toward finding the source of overwhelming feelings and making connections with current difficulties. Within this process we encourage healthy release of feelings which leads to healthier relationships and positive self esteem.
Our approach to therapy is tailored toward each unique person, family or couple. We see people with difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, recovery from trauma, parenting issues, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and weight issues, chronic pain, career decisions and addictions. Our approach is a combination of traditional techniques and heart centered deep healing. Our approach geared toward finding the source of overwhelming feelings and making connections with current difficulties. Within this process we encourage healthy release of feelings which leads to healthier relationships and positive self esteem.
![Photo of Dr. Greg Peterson, PhD, LPC, LMHC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3738ad12-62b1-4947-9669-e2c773cbf8b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Greg Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC, ACS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sandy, OR 97055 (Online Only)
I am a proud professional counselor. In the last ten years of my career I have worked with university students and individuals with severe persistent mental illness. I was drawn to working in higher education because university students are often times ready to change and dive into working on growing as people and developing new patterns of behavior. I enjoy helping anyone willing to take a few moments to try an experiment with their thoughts, or try something new. It may be a bit anxiety provoking at times but it helps us all to grow and change. I aspire to be an expert in helping clients find relief from their issues.
I am a proud professional counselor. In the last ten years of my career I have worked with university students and individuals with severe persistent mental illness. I was drawn to working in higher education because university students are often times ready to change and dive into working on growing as people and developing new patterns of behavior. I enjoy helping anyone willing to take a few moments to try an experiment with their thoughts, or try something new. It may be a bit anxiety provoking at times but it helps us all to grow and change. I aspire to be an expert in helping clients find relief from their issues.
![Photo of Michelle Whitney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/397800f2-5cf3-4a75-9a5e-711fa6bb99c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Whitney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97267 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Oregon. I obtained my graduate degree in social work from Portland State University in 2007. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, substance use, grief and loss, chronic illness, interpersonal relationships and life transitions. I am interested in helping those that are struggling with situational stressors or long-standing concerns.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Oregon. I obtained my graduate degree in social work from Portland State University in 2007. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, substance use, grief and loss, chronic illness, interpersonal relationships and life transitions. I am interested in helping those that are struggling with situational stressors or long-standing concerns.
![Photo of Elizabeth D Smith, PhD, MSW, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47f20b44-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth D Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gladstone, OR 97027 (Online Only)
Most of my clients come to me in the midst of some sort of transition--a difficult relationship, a new job, divorce, retirement, a move, etc.--that they are unable to navigate alone. I also see many persons confronting cancer, chronic pain or a crisis of faith. When we first meet, we will explore what brings you into therapy at this time. We will create a plan together to achieve the outcome you would like best. Many times, I find that transitions involve a certain amount of loss and grief that has not yet been acknowledged. Our goal would be to fit this transition, or life condition, large or small, into your overall life journey.
Most of my clients come to me in the midst of some sort of transition--a difficult relationship, a new job, divorce, retirement, a move, etc.--that they are unable to navigate alone. I also see many persons confronting cancer, chronic pain or a crisis of faith. When we first meet, we will explore what brings you into therapy at this time. We will create a plan together to achieve the outcome you would like best. Many times, I find that transitions involve a certain amount of loss and grief that has not yet been acknowledged. Our goal would be to fit this transition, or life condition, large or small, into your overall life journey.
![Photo of Carolyn S Hughes, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a275fa6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyn S Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I currently specialize in treating trauma of all kinds, depression, anxiety, women’s issues and pain management.
I enjoy working with individuals who are seeking a real change in their life. Sometimes you are "tired of the rut I am in" or feeling that "something needs to change..I do not want to feel like this anymore." Sometimes you are struggling with "old issues" and sometimes it is more current stresses like anxiety, relationships, or just do not know what to do next; I believe when you are ready to make a change, having a supportive push can really work!
I currently specialize in treating trauma of all kinds, depression, anxiety, women’s issues and pain management.
I enjoy working with individuals who are seeking a real change in their life. Sometimes you are "tired of the rut I am in" or feeling that "something needs to change..I do not want to feel like this anymore." Sometimes you are struggling with "old issues" and sometimes it is more current stresses like anxiety, relationships, or just do not know what to do next; I believe when you are ready to make a change, having a supportive push can really work!
![Photo of Darien Fenn, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fb4f87b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are having problems with anxiety, depression, coping with illness or injury, or because of conflict in your primary relationship, I would be happy to help. I also work well with people who have had long-term problems, or who have found previous therapy unhelpful or of limited benefit. I see therapy as more than just advice, but getting to the root cause and understanding how physical, emotional and belief systems interact. Reducing dependence on medications, relieving emotional suffering, or restoring love and communication are among the goals we can address.
If you are having problems with anxiety, depression, coping with illness or injury, or because of conflict in your primary relationship, I would be happy to help. I also work well with people who have had long-term problems, or who have found previous therapy unhelpful or of limited benefit. I see therapy as more than just advice, but getting to the root cause and understanding how physical, emotional and belief systems interact. Reducing dependence on medications, relieving emotional suffering, or restoring love and communication are among the goals we can address.
15 Second Videos
Katie Solomon
Greg Peterson
Elizabeth D Smith
Aaron Todd Overman
Avid Farahani
Genviev St. Clair
Kelsey McVeigh
Sofia Jasani
Leyla Dim
Still Waters Counseling Services, LLC
David C Manfield
Loving Kindness Hypnosis
Susan Anderson
Haley Wilson
Love You More Counseling
MR Valentine Oparaku
Holly S. Garrett
Amy Aulick Gupta
Barry Aneda
Cari Strickland
TruCourage LLC
![Photo of Aaron Todd Overman, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24e3418e-d709-4705-8149-748d113c865d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m excited to announce the opening of my new private practice. I have 20 years of experience as a psychologist working with adults, children, and families. I specialize in EMDR and my favorite part of my job is watching people let go of the pain from trauma and seeing the guilt and shame melt away. I have plenty of openings currently and look forward to hearing from you.
I’m excited to announce the opening of my new private practice. I have 20 years of experience as a psychologist working with adults, children, and families. I specialize in EMDR and my favorite part of my job is watching people let go of the pain from trauma and seeing the guilt and shame melt away. I have plenty of openings currently and look forward to hearing from you.
![Photo of Ashley Terry, LPC, LMHC, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9e77746-51a3-4f90-906e-9c938cd0d157/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Terry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LMHC, CADC
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045 (Online Only)
Hello I am Ashley it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new clients in OR and WA. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor in the State of Oregon, as well as a License Mental Health Counselor in the State of Washington. I have provided treatment to individuals suffering from eating disorders, substance use disorders, severe and persistent mental illness, marital and relational issues, grief and loss, as well as all forms of anxiety disorders, mood disorders and a vast range of substance, sex and gambling disorders.
Hello I am Ashley it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new clients in OR and WA. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor in the State of Oregon, as well as a License Mental Health Counselor in the State of Washington. I have provided treatment to individuals suffering from eating disorders, substance use disorders, severe and persistent mental illness, marital and relational issues, grief and loss, as well as all forms of anxiety disorders, mood disorders and a vast range of substance, sex and gambling disorders.
![Photo of Sheila Somers - Sheila Somers, LPC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6d1904d-be8c-4bc4-acf2-10e7619dd7d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila Somers, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
I provide a comforting presence to those with a life-limiting illness or family members caring for those with a chronic illness.
I am a psychotherapist working with individuals and couples. I provide counseling psychotherapy and integrate mindfulness psychotherapy, attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy, existential-humanistic and insight to encourage acceptance, balance and peace for the mind, body and spirit. I advocate and support couples from a variety of races, cultures and sexual orientations using Emotionally Focused Therapy to understand patterns and cycles and to build a better connection and a stronger relationship.
I provide a comforting presence to those with a life-limiting illness or family members caring for those with a chronic illness.
I am a psychotherapist working with individuals and couples. I provide counseling psychotherapy and integrate mindfulness psychotherapy, attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy, existential-humanistic and insight to encourage acceptance, balance and peace for the mind, body and spirit. I advocate and support couples from a variety of races, cultures and sexual orientations using Emotionally Focused Therapy to understand patterns and cycles and to build a better connection and a stronger relationship.
![Photo of Martha Darkins, RN, LPC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c8c0f63-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Martha Darkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with compulsive sexual thoughts or behaviors that interfere with work or relationships? Do you have a secret life? Are you married to or partnered with someone who lies, cheats or betrays you? Are you re-experiencing the pain of a trauma or abuse history? I can help you gain relief from sadness, loss and grief. End the cycle of one-night stands, hook-ups and failed relationships. You can redefine your goals for healthy sexuality and find a way back to your true values, making your life worth living. Seek help. Therapy works if you are willing to work on your recovery.
Are you struggling with compulsive sexual thoughts or behaviors that interfere with work or relationships? Do you have a secret life? Are you married to or partnered with someone who lies, cheats or betrays you? Are you re-experiencing the pain of a trauma or abuse history? I can help you gain relief from sadness, loss and grief. End the cycle of one-night stands, hook-ups and failed relationships. You can redefine your goals for healthy sexuality and find a way back to your true values, making your life worth living. Seek help. Therapy works if you are willing to work on your recovery.
![Photo of Kathryn F Weymouth, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/439755ac-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My clients are high functioning individuals who want help getting unstuck in some area of their lives, are seeking direction, and want help in alleviating pain, whether it is physical, emotional, psychological, relational, or spiritual. It's not unusual for them to have tried different therapies before coming to me, and most find that the combination of approaches that I use creates a healing synergy that they have not found elsewhere. In fact, my business card says "Deep Healing for Body, Mind, and Spirit." See my website at kweymouth.com for details.
My clients are high functioning individuals who want help getting unstuck in some area of their lives, are seeking direction, and want help in alleviating pain, whether it is physical, emotional, psychological, relational, or spiritual. It's not unusual for them to have tried different therapies before coming to me, and most find that the combination of approaches that I use creates a healing synergy that they have not found elsewhere. In fact, my business card says "Deep Healing for Body, Mind, and Spirit." See my website at kweymouth.com for details.
![Photo of Stephanie Gallian - Wishing Wellness Counseling and Coaching, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44f71193-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Wishing Wellness Counseling and Coaching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clackamas, OR 97015
Email is best, not calls! I work with any age, any need. I work most often with anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, life changes, work-related stress, and chronic pain. I take a very practical approach to helping you find peace and healing with your struggles. This is a safe, non-judgmental place to receive validation, support, feedback, and proactive help. Email is best to reach me, not phone, as phone calls disturb sessions.
Email is best, not calls! I work with any age, any need. I work most often with anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, life changes, work-related stress, and chronic pain. I take a very practical approach to helping you find peace and healing with your struggles. This is a safe, non-judgmental place to receive validation, support, feedback, and proactive help. Email is best to reach me, not phone, as phone calls disturb sessions.
![Photo of Victoria Douglas Thoreson - Victoria Douglas Thoreson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b55db7b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Douglas Thoreson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Waitlist for new clients
You want prompt solutions to today's challenges. Whether you are facing changes in your personal or work life, are dealing with trauma, illness, grief, depression or anxiety, you want support to identify and implement successful strategies to get back on line as soon as possible.
I have an active approach and promote between-session homework and bibliotherapy to integrate the gains you are making. I aggressively seek continuing education for myself in support of your current issues and special concerns.
My office reflects a sense of warmth comfort and security in order to create a reassuring environment.
You want prompt solutions to today's challenges. Whether you are facing changes in your personal or work life, are dealing with trauma, illness, grief, depression or anxiety, you want support to identify and implement successful strategies to get back on line as soon as possible.
I have an active approach and promote between-session homework and bibliotherapy to integrate the gains you are making. I aggressively seek continuing education for myself in support of your current issues and special concerns.
My office reflects a sense of warmth comfort and security in order to create a reassuring environment.
![Photo of Avid Farahani, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a1388f6-8e4b-4d97-915b-a60a9e71127d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Some areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, weight, pain, insomnia (CBT-I), stress management, women's health issues, and bariatric pre-surgical evaluations.
As we all continue to navigate life's transitions and changes, we eventually find ourselves needing guidance and support along the way. Whether you or someone you know is currently thriving or struggling in life, deciding to seek therapy can often be a helpful, rewarding, and life-changing experience. Finding and choosing a therapist, however, could be challenging and overwhelming. Not only must practical matters be considered, such as fees and scheduling, so must the therapist's style, approach, and qualifications. In other words, it has to be a "good fit" and it must "feel right."
Some areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, weight, pain, insomnia (CBT-I), stress management, women's health issues, and bariatric pre-surgical evaluations.
As we all continue to navigate life's transitions and changes, we eventually find ourselves needing guidance and support along the way. Whether you or someone you know is currently thriving or struggling in life, deciding to seek therapy can often be a helpful, rewarding, and life-changing experience. Finding and choosing a therapist, however, could be challenging and overwhelming. Not only must practical matters be considered, such as fees and scheduling, so must the therapist's style, approach, and qualifications. In other words, it has to be a "good fit" and it must "feel right."
![Photo of Robbie Bahl, MD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d888f09-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Shanti, we provide comprehensive mental health treatment. We specialize in dual diagnosis treatment for mental health issues and addiction. Our TMS therapy program treats depression in our clients using a new and unique technology. Robbie Bahl, MD is our medical director. He is a dual Board Certified medical physician, specializing in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine. He performs Suboxone and Buprenorphine Inductions and Maintenance, Chronic Pain, Opioid Dependence, Alcohol Dependence, Vivitrol/Sublocade Injections, and TMS therapy for depression. We have a team of MDs, NPs, and therapists to work to for your wellness.
At Shanti, we provide comprehensive mental health treatment. We specialize in dual diagnosis treatment for mental health issues and addiction. Our TMS therapy program treats depression in our clients using a new and unique technology. Robbie Bahl, MD is our medical director. He is a dual Board Certified medical physician, specializing in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine. He performs Suboxone and Buprenorphine Inductions and Maintenance, Chronic Pain, Opioid Dependence, Alcohol Dependence, Vivitrol/Sublocade Injections, and TMS therapy for depression. We have a team of MDs, NPs, and therapists to work to for your wellness.
See more therapy options for Clackamas County
Chronic Pain Therapists
How does chronic pain therapy work?
Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.
What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?
Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.
Are there new treatments for chronic pain?
Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.
How long does therapy for chronic pain take?
There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.