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Photo of Leah Losavich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Losavich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Pocono, PA 18344
Life can become overwhelming, sometimes we forget it is a work in progress. The last few years have been a wild ride! Detours can happen making it easy to forget that the detours may be necessary to help us move forward. I enjoy having the privilege of helping individuals reach their full potential by helping to recognize their strengths through therapeutic intervention, self care, identifying coping strategies and learning to stay in the moment. The work can be difficult but that does not mean there may not be laughter, tears and progress.
Life can become overwhelming, sometimes we forget it is a work in progress. The last few years have been a wild ride! Detours can happen making it easy to forget that the detours may be necessary to help us move forward. I enjoy having the privilege of helping individuals reach their full potential by helping to recognize their strengths through therapeutic intervention, self care, identifying coping strategies and learning to stay in the moment. The work can be difficult but that does not mean there may not be laughter, tears and progress.
(272) 268-7453 View (272) 268-7453

Online Therapists

Photo of John Machalaba, PsyD, Psychologist
John Machalaba
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106
I have expertise working with university/graduate students, medical professionals, individuals with chronic illness, and those in the midst of major life changes.
My approach to therapy is one that prioritizes the creation of a relationship that is safe, mutual, and honest. I want my clients to feel empowered and free to explore themselves and grow into the person they wish to become. I am calm, warm, and active. I offer my clients feedback and challenge them in ways that encourage growth, often with some levity and humor. I value knowing my clients as a person and prioritize understanding and appreciating their perspective. I work together with my clients to identify negative patterns in their life and provide the opportunity to create new, healthy experiences.
I have expertise working with university/graduate students, medical professionals, individuals with chronic illness, and those in the midst of major life changes.
My approach to therapy is one that prioritizes the creation of a relationship that is safe, mutual, and honest. I want my clients to feel empowered and free to explore themselves and grow into the person they wish to become. I am calm, warm, and active. I offer my clients feedback and challenge them in ways that encourage growth, often with some levity and humor. I value knowing my clients as a person and prioritize understanding and appreciating their perspective. I work together with my clients to identify negative patterns in their life and provide the opportunity to create new, healthy experiences.
(215) 607-7402 View (215) 607-7402
Photo of Marifel Estrada-Currie, PhD, Psychologist
Marifel Estrada-Currie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18106
e depression and anxiety), OCD, eating disorders, managing adjustments to disabilities and ongoing medical diagnoses/chronic pain through the use of effective psychotherapeutic interventions.
As individuals we are continually faced with life events that at times can be challenging, stressful and overwhelming and can impact our emotional and physical well being and relationships. It is at these times that we strive to find emotional and mental relief, balance and connection. As a licensed psychologist, I strive to help clients find positive coping skills to help them through events negatively impacting their present lives. I will strive to provide an empathetic therapeutic environment in a collaborative dialogue between me, the clinician, and you, the client to find emotional relief, calm, and interpersonal growth.
e depression and anxiety), OCD, eating disorders, managing adjustments to disabilities and ongoing medical diagnoses/chronic pain through the use of effective psychotherapeutic interventions.
As individuals we are continually faced with life events that at times can be challenging, stressful and overwhelming and can impact our emotional and physical well being and relationships. It is at these times that we strive to find emotional and mental relief, balance and connection. As a licensed psychologist, I strive to help clients find positive coping skills to help them through events negatively impacting their present lives. I will strive to provide an empathetic therapeutic environment in a collaborative dialogue between me, the clinician, and you, the client to find emotional relief, calm, and interpersonal growth.
(484) 282-1107 View (484) 282-1107
Photo of Wendell Scanterbury, PhD, MFT, CGCS
Wendell Scanterbury
PhD, MFT, CGCS
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Dr. Wendell Scanterbury is a Marriage and Family Therapist who supports individuals, couples, and families facing various life and relationship setbacks such as strained partnerships, anxiety and depression, grief, phobias, chronic illness, and diminished self-image. His clinical development includes several years working with and caring for people living with cancer, grieving loss, vulnerable youth, and separated families. Dr. Scanterbury’s clinical approaches to therapy include Ecosystemic Structural Family Therapy (ESFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Prepare/Enrich, Gottman Method Couple’s Therapy, and biofeedback.
Dr. Wendell Scanterbury is a Marriage and Family Therapist who supports individuals, couples, and families facing various life and relationship setbacks such as strained partnerships, anxiety and depression, grief, phobias, chronic illness, and diminished self-image. His clinical development includes several years working with and caring for people living with cancer, grieving loss, vulnerable youth, and separated families. Dr. Scanterbury’s clinical approaches to therapy include Ecosystemic Structural Family Therapy (ESFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Prepare/Enrich, Gottman Method Couple’s Therapy, and biofeedback.
(833) 548-1027 View (833) 548-1027
Photo of Christina O'Brien, MA, MTBC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina O'Brien
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MTBC, LPC
Verified Verified
Exton, PA 19341
Waitlist for new clients
Christina has and continues to enjoy working with a diverse array of clients, including chronic and/or terminal illness, the LGBTQA+ community, grief & loss, BIPOC, mood disorders, co-morbid mental illness, trauma survivors, substance abuse, adjudicated youth and adults in corrections, and children and adults with IDD needs. Christina uses techniques from person-centered humanism, MI, DBT, CBT, community-based support, psychodynamic theory, family-centered approach, motivational interviewing and therapeutic phenomenology.
Christina has and continues to enjoy working with a diverse array of clients, including chronic and/or terminal illness, the LGBTQA+ community, grief & loss, BIPOC, mood disorders, co-morbid mental illness, trauma survivors, substance abuse, adjudicated youth and adults in corrections, and children and adults with IDD needs. Christina uses techniques from person-centered humanism, MI, DBT, CBT, community-based support, psychodynamic theory, family-centered approach, motivational interviewing and therapeutic phenomenology.
(484) 946-4498 View (484) 946-4498
Photo of Rachel McQuillan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel McQuillan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced past traumas, systemic oppression, life transitions, medical illness, mood disorders, relationship challenges, grief, and loss.
You should be proud of yourself for taking the first step in seeking help. If you are overwhelmed or struggling, I’m here to support you in getting back to living your life more fully and intentionally. I am a licensed social worker with 10 years of experience. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and collaborative space to nurture healing. Importantly, I identify myself as a culturally sensitive therapist. I utilize a Feminist and Intersectional lens in my work, and I have strong social justice values which informs my therapy practice.
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced past traumas, systemic oppression, life transitions, medical illness, mood disorders, relationship challenges, grief, and loss.
You should be proud of yourself for taking the first step in seeking help. If you are overwhelmed or struggling, I’m here to support you in getting back to living your life more fully and intentionally. I am a licensed social worker with 10 years of experience. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and collaborative space to nurture healing. Importantly, I identify myself as a culturally sensitive therapist. I utilize a Feminist and Intersectional lens in my work, and I have strong social justice values which informs my therapy practice.
(267) 214-2279 View (267) 214-2279
Photo of Valerie Palencar - Valerie Palencar, LPC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valerie Palencar, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittston, PA 18640
We all go through periods of pain and confusion.
Hello! I work with my clients using a Cognitive Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Solution Focused Approach. Solution Focused means we try to solve issues and problems as soon as possible. I am also a trauma specialist and have worked with military and domestic violence victims for many years. Trauma is relative to each individual and shouldn't be compared. And there are ways to heal and thrive! I also work with sexual addiction, childhood behavioral issues, depression and anxiety, chronic pain, career coaching, and all female issues. I also offer premarital and marital counseling.
We all go through periods of pain and confusion.
Hello! I work with my clients using a Cognitive Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Solution Focused Approach. Solution Focused means we try to solve issues and problems as soon as possible. I am also a trauma specialist and have worked with military and domestic violence victims for many years. Trauma is relative to each individual and shouldn't be compared. And there are ways to heal and thrive! I also work with sexual addiction, childhood behavioral issues, depression and anxiety, chronic pain, career coaching, and all female issues. I also offer premarital and marital counseling.
(917) 821-6645 View (917) 821-6645
Photo of Tiffany Griffiths - Tiffany Griffiths, Psy.D. & Associates, Inc., Psychologist
Tiffany Griffiths, Psy.D. & Associates, Inc.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Dunmore, PA 18512
Our specialties and interests include: Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), trauma resolution, pain management, testing and assessment, interpersonal issues, GLBTQ issues, women's issues, sexual issues, substance abuse and recovery, marital and family issues, childhood disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personal growth.
I have worked to create an integrated, evidence-based, and holistic group practice where my vision of the ideal environment for growth can unfold. The associates in the practice have diverse backgrounds, interests, and training. No matter what problem or difficulty with which you present, someone in our group can assist you. We have cultivated an environment of peace, warmth, and acceptance to assure you will be respected, unconditionally.
Our specialties and interests include: Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), trauma resolution, pain management, testing and assessment, interpersonal issues, GLBTQ issues, women's issues, sexual issues, substance abuse and recovery, marital and family issues, childhood disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personal growth.
I have worked to create an integrated, evidence-based, and holistic group practice where my vision of the ideal environment for growth can unfold. The associates in the practice have diverse backgrounds, interests, and training. No matter what problem or difficulty with which you present, someone in our group can assist you. We have cultivated an environment of peace, warmth, and acceptance to assure you will be respected, unconditionally.
(570) 560-6579 View (570) 560-6579
Photo of Susan Karol Martel, EdM
Susan Karol Martel
EdM
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
With 40 years of experience, I work with individuals and couples, straight and gay, African Americans, Caucasians and other racial and ethnic groups as well as other therapists helping with their unique life challenges. I also work with those having chronic illness and cancer. Challenge and loss are inevitable-- whether they be associated with love, family, health or trust or over how we hoped our life would turn out. Living well means learning a repertoire to deal with challenges so we don't remain stuck, angry or depressed.
With 40 years of experience, I work with individuals and couples, straight and gay, African Americans, Caucasians and other racial and ethnic groups as well as other therapists helping with their unique life challenges. I also work with those having chronic illness and cancer. Challenge and loss are inevitable-- whether they be associated with love, family, health or trust or over how we hoped our life would turn out. Living well means learning a repertoire to deal with challenges so we don't remain stuck, angry or depressed.
(215) 995-5164 View (215) 995-5164
Photo of Abigail Abbas - Arcline Associates Counsel Services, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arcline Associates Counsel Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Smile! Our specialties include GeriCare© (older adults with complicated grief/loss); chronic illness/pain; depression; relationships; coping; acceptance; D&A. Conflict Resolution: Adolescent behavioral & school conflict; bicultural, acculturation, assimilation, ethnicity socialization conflict; identity & intergenerational conflict. Stress/Anger Mgmt. Occupational Stress: Welcome Law Enforcement, First Responders, Hospital & Crisis Workers; Aviation Personnel. Parent Child Interaction. Marriage Family Couples Counseling. Emphasis on Family Systems, Relational, Interpersonal, Ecological Theory. Trauma Informed, DBT/CBT. PA Medicare & CHIP Welcome!
Smile! Our specialties include GeriCare© (older adults with complicated grief/loss); chronic illness/pain; depression; relationships; coping; acceptance; D&A. Conflict Resolution: Adolescent behavioral & school conflict; bicultural, acculturation, assimilation, ethnicity socialization conflict; identity & intergenerational conflict. Stress/Anger Mgmt. Occupational Stress: Welcome Law Enforcement, First Responders, Hospital & Crisis Workers; Aviation Personnel. Parent Child Interaction. Marriage Family Couples Counseling. Emphasis on Family Systems, Relational, Interpersonal, Ecological Theory. Trauma Informed, DBT/CBT. PA Medicare & CHIP Welcome!
(267) 460-7146 View (267) 460-7146
Photo of Ashley J Bryan - Grace Be Mental Health, EdD, LCSW, MSW, MA, BSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grace Be Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW, MSW, MA, BSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
At Grace Be Mental Health, we believe in the importance of holistic health! We believe in the mind, body, soul connection. We strive to meet each client where they are, taking a person-centered approach. We intend for therapy to be a safe space! We view therapy as a tool, and an experience that can assist in the life-long process of learning and re-learning ourselves. We are honored to be a part of the work of self-development with each client we get to know! Specialties include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, body image, ADD/ADHD, OCD, anger management, chronic pain, chronic illness, and adjustment disorders.
At Grace Be Mental Health, we believe in the importance of holistic health! We believe in the mind, body, soul connection. We strive to meet each client where they are, taking a person-centered approach. We intend for therapy to be a safe space! We view therapy as a tool, and an experience that can assist in the life-long process of learning and re-learning ourselves. We are honored to be a part of the work of self-development with each client we get to know! Specialties include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, body image, ADD/ADHD, OCD, anger management, chronic pain, chronic illness, and adjustment disorders.
(223) 218-2588 View (223) 218-2588
Photo of Jordon Campbell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jordon Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19132  (Online Only)
I have experience in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, racial identity, relationship issues, life transitions, family planning, crisis management, sex therapy, teens/adolescents, chronic illness, intimacy.
My passion is to work with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds that are having a difficult time communicating their feelings and needs. I work closely with my clients to help them discover their innate coping skills while introducing a variety of others.Those that struggle in their relationships; whether it be with work, friends or a loved one, will gain support in creating and setting appropriate boundaries. I provide a space to work through trauma (sexual, racial, familial and work). I also provide clinical supervision for therapists seeking to expand and grow their mental health career
I have experience in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, racial identity, relationship issues, life transitions, family planning, crisis management, sex therapy, teens/adolescents, chronic illness, intimacy.
My passion is to work with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds that are having a difficult time communicating their feelings and needs. I work closely with my clients to help them discover their innate coping skills while introducing a variety of others.Those that struggle in their relationships; whether it be with work, friends or a loved one, will gain support in creating and setting appropriate boundaries. I provide a space to work through trauma (sexual, racial, familial and work). I also provide clinical supervision for therapists seeking to expand and grow their mental health career
(215) 486-8220 View (215) 486-8220
Photo of Annarita Gentile, MSS, LSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annarita Gentile
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
I have extensive experience working with individuals and couples who are seeking relief from pain, suffering and confusion. I work best with folks hoping to be part of process leading to a quick resolution. Once initial concerns are addressed, I find working with someone interested in additional explorations into the root of their issues, very rewarding.
I have extensive experience working with individuals and couples who are seeking relief from pain, suffering and confusion. I work best with folks hoping to be part of process leading to a quick resolution. Once initial concerns are addressed, I find working with someone interested in additional explorations into the root of their issues, very rewarding.
(484) 550-7094 View (484) 550-7094
Photo of Aviva Gaskill - Aviva Gaskill, PhD, Psychologist
Aviva Gaskill
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
I have extensive experience helping individuals & caregivers cope with chronic medical problems including cancer, pain, autoimmune, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, insomnia, gastrointestinal issues, Parkinsons & multiple sclerosis along with medically-induced trauma.
Do you find it hard to sleep at night because thoughts race through your head? Have you been feeling down, not like the old you? Perhaps you are finding it tough to deal with your boss, co-workers or your loved ones. Whatever difficulties and distress you may be facing, you have just taken the first steps towards improving your life. By working together, you & I can develop a collaborative relationship full of warmth & lacking in judgment. We will develop an environment of safety & trust to foster your growth & experience of more fulfilling connections.
I have extensive experience helping individuals & caregivers cope with chronic medical problems including cancer, pain, autoimmune, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, insomnia, gastrointestinal issues, Parkinsons & multiple sclerosis along with medically-induced trauma.
Do you find it hard to sleep at night because thoughts race through your head? Have you been feeling down, not like the old you? Perhaps you are finding it tough to deal with your boss, co-workers or your loved ones. Whatever difficulties and distress you may be facing, you have just taken the first steps towards improving your life. By working together, you & I can develop a collaborative relationship full of warmth & lacking in judgment. We will develop an environment of safety & trust to foster your growth & experience of more fulfilling connections.
(610) 345-7284 View (610) 345-7284
Photo of Valentina Isleib, LMFT, CCIT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valentina Isleib
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCIT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayne, PA 19087
What are you looking for in therapy? I aim to assist you answering this question in a calm and encouraging environment where your concerns and hopes are heard and valued and where we can work together for you to achieve this purpose. I will ask you guiding questions to encourage deeper curiosity and care for yourself, and together we will explore answers that will help you create goals to support the change you need. I work with individuals, couples or families facing emotional pain, anxiety, depression, anger, couples issues, addiction, etc. and I assist their making discoveries that can help them create change.
What are you looking for in therapy? I aim to assist you answering this question in a calm and encouraging environment where your concerns and hopes are heard and valued and where we can work together for you to achieve this purpose. I will ask you guiding questions to encourage deeper curiosity and care for yourself, and together we will explore answers that will help you create goals to support the change you need. I work with individuals, couples or families facing emotional pain, anxiety, depression, anger, couples issues, addiction, etc. and I assist their making discoveries that can help them create change.
(610) 550-8878 View (610) 550-8878
Photo of Christine Marie Agnese-Etzrodt, PsyD, Psychologist
Christine Marie Agnese-Etzrodt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, eating disorders, body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness and trauma.
Welcome to finding peace and happiness in your life again. Sometimes it can feel like peace and happiness are out of your grasp, but I am here to remind you that healing is possible for you. We all have times in our lives when we are struggling and need to know that help and support is there for us. Together you and I can find that path for you. I will help you to feel good about yourself and your life. Here you will find a place where you are always accepted.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, eating disorders, body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness and trauma.
Welcome to finding peace and happiness in your life again. Sometimes it can feel like peace and happiness are out of your grasp, but I am here to remind you that healing is possible for you. We all have times in our lives when we are struggling and need to know that help and support is there for us. Together you and I can find that path for you. I will help you to feel good about yourself and your life. Here you will find a place where you are always accepted.
(267) 433-2539 View (267) 433-2539
Photo of Christine DiPrinzio Guerrero, MA, LPC, CAADC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine DiPrinzio Guerrero
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Shillington, PA 19607
Life is full of challenges and sometimes you need help to feel your best. I use a solution-focused approach that can result in rapid progress for depression, anxiety, adjustment problems, anger management, problem gambling, drug/alcohol, process addictions, codependency, DUI's, and Relationship/Marital issues. Hypnotherapy is available for in-person clients, and I can personalize it for almost any treatment issue, including anxiety, phobias, and smoking cessation. Call for more information. Evening hours available.
Life is full of challenges and sometimes you need help to feel your best. I use a solution-focused approach that can result in rapid progress for depression, anxiety, adjustment problems, anger management, problem gambling, drug/alcohol, process addictions, codependency, DUI's, and Relationship/Marital issues. Hypnotherapy is available for in-person clients, and I can personalize it for almost any treatment issue, including anxiety, phobias, and smoking cessation. Call for more information. Evening hours available.
(610) 810-1273 View (610) 810-1273
Photo of Dr. Rachael Kerns, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Rachael Kerns
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143
Waitlist for new clients
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a psychologist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Through collaboration, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a psychologist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Through collaboration, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(612) 223-6702 View (612) 223-6702
Photo of Benjamin Lasner, LPC, NBCC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Benjamin Lasner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester Springs, PA 19425
Benjamin (pronounced Ben-ya-meen) Lasner, LPC, NBCC, M.S.. He is compassionate, open, and committed to creating a therapeutic relationship where everyone feels safe and respected. Benjamin understands and values the perspectives of both sides of the therapeutic relationship and firmly believes that two individuals sitting in a room, and having a conversation, is one of the most powerful, healing events that can occur. Benjamin strives to make the therapeutic environment welcoming, giving you his full focus and attention. It is important to meet each client where they are in order to help them achieve their goals.
Benjamin (pronounced Ben-ya-meen) Lasner, LPC, NBCC, M.S.. He is compassionate, open, and committed to creating a therapeutic relationship where everyone feels safe and respected. Benjamin understands and values the perspectives of both sides of the therapeutic relationship and firmly believes that two individuals sitting in a room, and having a conversation, is one of the most powerful, healing events that can occur. Benjamin strives to make the therapeutic environment welcoming, giving you his full focus and attention. It is important to meet each client where they are in order to help them achieve their goals.
(610) 686-7502 View (610) 686-7502
Photo of Tricia Lynne Steele, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tricia Lynne Steele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Williamsport, PA 17701
" We all face challenges and could use extra support at times. It is my life's purpose and passion to help others live meaningful and Joy-filled lives. Together, let's explore the mental, emotional and behavioral patterns that are interfering with your ability to maintain harmony within yourself and in your relationships with others." Tricia offers guidance and support through life's many transitions, and has extensive training as both a motivational and interpersonal psychotherapist. WIth specialties in maternal mental health and eating disorders
" We all face challenges and could use extra support at times. It is my life's purpose and passion to help others live meaningful and Joy-filled lives. Together, let's explore the mental, emotional and behavioral patterns that are interfering with your ability to maintain harmony within yourself and in your relationships with others." Tricia offers guidance and support through life's many transitions, and has extensive training as both a motivational and interpersonal psychotherapist. WIth specialties in maternal mental health and eating disorders
(570) 846-2032 View (570) 846-2032
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.