Chronic Pain Therapists in McKinney, TX

Photo of Malauna Hogan, PhD, Psychologist
Malauna Hogan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Hogan has over 25 years of experience in providing psychological services to a number of special populations, including individuals with chronic pain management issues and adjustment issues related to long-term care placement and other life transitions.
Dr. Malauna Hogan is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, who provides psychological services. including psychotherapy and assessment, to adults and individuals who are in advanced stages of life. She uses Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, as well as other evidenced-based treatments, to treat a number of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, adjustment to life transitions, work-related stress, and relationship issues. She is also sensitive to multicultural issues that impact an individual’s well-being.
Hogan has over 25 years of experience in providing psychological services to a number of special populations, including individuals with chronic pain management issues and adjustment issues related to long-term care placement and other life transitions.
Dr. Malauna Hogan is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, who provides psychological services. including psychotherapy and assessment, to adults and individuals who are in advanced stages of life. She uses Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, as well as other evidenced-based treatments, to treat a number of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, adjustment to life transitions, work-related stress, and relationship issues. She is also sensitive to multicultural issues that impact an individual’s well-being.
(469) 812-8492 View (469) 812-8492
Photo of Kristina Sarkisova, MSSW, LMSW
Kristina Sarkisova
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Whether emotional, physical, or both: your pain is 100% real, it matters, and it carries important information.
I'm a multi-cultural, bilingual (English/Español), trauma-sensitive and caring psychotherapist. I'm passionate about neurobiology and the mind-body connection, and I have experience using this integrated approach with clients going through grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship struggles. I find it especially fulfilling to work with people who live with disabilities, chronic illness, and/or chronic pain. I know first-hand how challenging it can be to sustain a loss of health, and I consider it a privilege to support you in the many ways this may be impacting your life.
Whether emotional, physical, or both: your pain is 100% real, it matters, and it carries important information.
I'm a multi-cultural, bilingual (English/Español), trauma-sensitive and caring psychotherapist. I'm passionate about neurobiology and the mind-body connection, and I have experience using this integrated approach with clients going through grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship struggles. I find it especially fulfilling to work with people who live with disabilities, chronic illness, and/or chronic pain. I know first-hand how challenging it can be to sustain a loss of health, and I consider it a privilege to support you in the many ways this may be impacting your life.
(512) 982-6027 View (512) 982-6027
Photo of Katherine Bell (Tx Lic# 71390), MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine Bell (Tx Lic# 71390)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75072
I’ve survived trauma & divorce, fought depression, lived with chronic illness, made tons of mistakes, and I’ve outright failed—too many times.
Healing can mean diving deep into your past. Those depths can be a scary, painful place, but there’s treasure, too. You're created in God’s image, uniquely wired to be like no one else, with gifts and strengths to discover. I welcome you to a safe space to explore yourself. You’re free to be completely, unashamedly YOU... w/out the masks that hide what's beneath the surface. I'll listen, offer validation, show acceptance/grace, & encourage you to take those first steps towards becoming the YOU God intended. Learn to extend grace to yourself as you discover the life you’ve always wanted. Saturday appts available, BCBS accepted.
I’ve survived trauma & divorce, fought depression, lived with chronic illness, made tons of mistakes, and I’ve outright failed—too many times.
Healing can mean diving deep into your past. Those depths can be a scary, painful place, but there’s treasure, too. You're created in God’s image, uniquely wired to be like no one else, with gifts and strengths to discover. I welcome you to a safe space to explore yourself. You’re free to be completely, unashamedly YOU... w/out the masks that hide what's beneath the surface. I'll listen, offer validation, show acceptance/grace, & encourage you to take those first steps towards becoming the YOU God intended. Learn to extend grace to yourself as you discover the life you’ve always wanted. Saturday appts available, BCBS accepted.
(972) 441-7374 View (972) 441-7374
Photo of Charles Vela, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles Vela
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Greetings! My name is Charles Vela, and it has been my life’s passion to support and encourage individuals in living their fullest life and healing from past trauma. I received my undergraduate degree in philosophy and psychology at the University of Texas-Austin and went on to my graduate studies at UTRGV. I have experience counseling and working in social work settings and have been able to work with an array of amazing individuals ranging from couples, children, veterans of foreign wars, and families. I help clients struggling with anxiety, panic disorders, PTSD, trauma, chronic pain, and depression.
Greetings! My name is Charles Vela, and it has been my life’s passion to support and encourage individuals in living their fullest life and healing from past trauma. I received my undergraduate degree in philosophy and psychology at the University of Texas-Austin and went on to my graduate studies at UTRGV. I have experience counseling and working in social work settings and have been able to work with an array of amazing individuals ranging from couples, children, veterans of foreign wars, and families. I help clients struggling with anxiety, panic disorders, PTSD, trauma, chronic pain, and depression.
(469) 489-3281 View (469) 489-3281
Photo of Bryan Ferguson, LPC-A, MS
Bryan Ferguson
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MS
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
Life is full of peaks and valleys, and the valleys we experience can sometimes present themselves as anxiety, addiction, depression, or unresolved pain from past traumas.
I believe that every person is immeasurably valuable, unique, and made in the image of the Creator. Sometimes having a compassionate therapist who will create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to share your emotional burdens can be the greatest catalyst for personal change and growth. I am committed to giving my clients 100% of my attention, energy, and effort, because you are loved, valued, important to God, and to me as a therapist. Taking the first step of reaching out to a counselor can seem like the most difficult, but it may also be the decision that leads to life-changing growth, healing, and discovery.
Life is full of peaks and valleys, and the valleys we experience can sometimes present themselves as anxiety, addiction, depression, or unresolved pain from past traumas.
I believe that every person is immeasurably valuable, unique, and made in the image of the Creator. Sometimes having a compassionate therapist who will create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to share your emotional burdens can be the greatest catalyst for personal change and growth. I am committed to giving my clients 100% of my attention, energy, and effort, because you are loved, valued, important to God, and to me as a therapist. Taking the first step of reaching out to a counselor can seem like the most difficult, but it may also be the decision that leads to life-changing growth, healing, and discovery.
(469) 382-5828 View (469) 382-5828
Photo of Alyson Pertuis, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyson Pertuis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Treatment interests & experiences with adolescents & adults include the following areas: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), faith-based counseling, marriage, premarital, veteran/military/military families, ADHD, eating disorders, phobias, trauma, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), chronic pain, first responders, PTSD, anxiety, & depression.
Want to feel better without talking about things for months of therapy? I use Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) for rapid healing and improvement of struggles in life. I use additional therapeutic approaches when helping clients, and intake assessment includes thorough review of physical, mental, spiritual and relational issues. I can help you with the challenges you are facing by tapping into your resources and supports. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy through Journey Clinical. Please contact me for the next steps for scheduling with me.
Treatment interests & experiences with adolescents & adults include the following areas: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), faith-based counseling, marriage, premarital, veteran/military/military families, ADHD, eating disorders, phobias, trauma, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), chronic pain, first responders, PTSD, anxiety, & depression.
Want to feel better without talking about things for months of therapy? I use Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) for rapid healing and improvement of struggles in life. I use additional therapeutic approaches when helping clients, and intake assessment includes thorough review of physical, mental, spiritual and relational issues. I can help you with the challenges you are facing by tapping into your resources and supports. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy through Journey Clinical. Please contact me for the next steps for scheduling with me.
(972) 325-5516 View (972) 325-5516
Photo of Joseph Dustin Cobb, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph Dustin Cobb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I received my Masters from University of Texas at Arlington in 2012. I have extensive experience and training in medical social work, dual diagnosis, and depressive disorders. I work with clients on a diverse spectrum of topics: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life stages, attachment and codependency, alcoholism, substance abuse, individuals living with disabilities, LGBT, gender dysphoria, and caregivers of people suffering from mental illness.
I received my Masters from University of Texas at Arlington in 2012. I have extensive experience and training in medical social work, dual diagnosis, and depressive disorders. I work with clients on a diverse spectrum of topics: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life stages, attachment and codependency, alcoholism, substance abuse, individuals living with disabilities, LGBT, gender dysphoria, and caregivers of people suffering from mental illness.
(972) 449-5137 View (972) 449-5137
Photo of Ashley Wilson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75072
The human mind and body is a vastly complex and amazing system, with immeasurable capacity for both pain and healing. None of us operates in a vacuum and, because of different life experiences, beliefs, environments and relationships, each of us is unique in our suffering, as well as our path to wellness.
The human mind and body is a vastly complex and amazing system, with immeasurable capacity for both pain and healing. None of us operates in a vacuum and, because of different life experiences, beliefs, environments and relationships, each of us is unique in our suffering, as well as our path to wellness.
(214) 428-6447 View (214) 428-6447
Photo of Chevonda Allen, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-A, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chevonda Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
You need help. Welcome to the club! We all need help sometimes. Congratulations for being courageous enough to be on this site exploring. I have experience with adults, adolescents and couples with a variety of presenting problems including but not limited to anxiety/stress, depression, relationship issues, martial issues, PTSD, spiritual issues, grief, pain and anger management. Peace of mind and feeling balanced are things you can achieve. Are you ready for change? I look forward to working with you.
You need help. Welcome to the club! We all need help sometimes. Congratulations for being courageous enough to be on this site exploring. I have experience with adults, adolescents and couples with a variety of presenting problems including but not limited to anxiety/stress, depression, relationship issues, martial issues, PTSD, spiritual issues, grief, pain and anger management. Peace of mind and feeling balanced are things you can achieve. Are you ready for change? I look forward to working with you.
(972) 893-9465 View (972) 893-9465
Photo of Susan Kent-Arce - Susan Kent-Arce, Ph.D., PLLC, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Susan Kent-Arce, Ph.D., PLLC
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Waitlist for new clients
You will learn how to reduce your and eliminate suffering from pain in life.
I am passionate about collaborating with you to identify your values and make real change in your life. Are you having difficulty managing your emotions? Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, negative thoughts? Have your recently experienced a loss, relationship difficulties, or are caring for a loved one? Do you have poor boundaries with others? Are you unsure how to mange the transitions in your life? We will find the right balance of acceptance and change help you meet your goals towards your values and live a life that has purpose and meaning.
You will learn how to reduce your and eliminate suffering from pain in life.
I am passionate about collaborating with you to identify your values and make real change in your life. Are you having difficulty managing your emotions? Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, negative thoughts? Have your recently experienced a loss, relationship difficulties, or are caring for a loved one? Do you have poor boundaries with others? Are you unsure how to mange the transitions in your life? We will find the right balance of acceptance and change help you meet your goals towards your values and live a life that has purpose and meaning.
(214) 273-0317 View (214) 273-0317
Photo of Jackie Burson, MS, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jackie Burson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD or stress? It might be time to stop letting your temporary struggles become your-life long identity. We can work together to help identify the source of your pain and work towards living a less stressful life. Through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for teens and adults, we can learn how to recognize distorted thinking patterns to make lasting life changes. The first step is reaching out for help. Next it is important to find a therapist you connect with. I pride myself on providing a safe, non judgmental, supportive and empathic environment.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD or stress? It might be time to stop letting your temporary struggles become your-life long identity. We can work together to help identify the source of your pain and work towards living a less stressful life. Through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for teens and adults, we can learn how to recognize distorted thinking patterns to make lasting life changes. The first step is reaching out for help. Next it is important to find a therapist you connect with. I pride myself on providing a safe, non judgmental, supportive and empathic environment.
(972) 942-8644 View (972) 942-8644
Photo of Ellen Chernoff Simon, MS, MEd, LPC, BCB, CA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellen Chernoff Simon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC, BCB, CA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
If you feel anxious or depressed about a problem or habit you want to change worsened by stress such as weight issues, relationship concerns or addictions, then hypnotherapy & neurofeedback together can help you regain a sense of peace & enhanced well being. I also practice IFS & bio- neurofeedback. I believe in a mind body approach to help reduce stress from physical conditions such as pain, illness, sleep and digestive disorders. It is my intention to empower every person to experience their innate wisdom & inner guidance. I am certified in Ketamine assisted therapy which takes place in my office. Contact me if you are interested.
If you feel anxious or depressed about a problem or habit you want to change worsened by stress such as weight issues, relationship concerns or addictions, then hypnotherapy & neurofeedback together can help you regain a sense of peace & enhanced well being. I also practice IFS & bio- neurofeedback. I believe in a mind body approach to help reduce stress from physical conditions such as pain, illness, sleep and digestive disorders. It is my intention to empower every person to experience their innate wisdom & inner guidance. I am certified in Ketamine assisted therapy which takes place in my office. Contact me if you are interested.
(972) 891-9696 View (972) 891-9696
Photo of Kaitlyn Grote, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaitlyn Grote
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
If you or your family member is struggling with a new or chronic medical condition and finding it difficult to cope with caregiver and patient roles, reduced activities of daily living, pain, and medical treatments, I can walk with you on your journey and provide coping skills and a supportive environment.
I see adult clients who are struggling with a medical illness and related role changes in family relationships and day to day life. Medical challenges can lead to depression, anxiety, and can change how you view yourself and your purpose in life. The goal of therapy is to help you process your situation and learn coping strategies and reframing techniques to improve your quality of life and guide you through a journey of emotional healing.
If you or your family member is struggling with a new or chronic medical condition and finding it difficult to cope with caregiver and patient roles, reduced activities of daily living, pain, and medical treatments, I can walk with you on your journey and provide coping skills and a supportive environment.
I see adult clients who are struggling with a medical illness and related role changes in family relationships and day to day life. Medical challenges can lead to depression, anxiety, and can change how you view yourself and your purpose in life. The goal of therapy is to help you process your situation and learn coping strategies and reframing techniques to improve your quality of life and guide you through a journey of emotional healing.
(469) 923-1701 View (469) 923-1701
Photo of Amissa Sharrock, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amissa Sharrock
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Over 25 years clinical experience in helping adults struggling with workplace issues, everyday stressors, depression, anxiety/obsessive worry/panic attacks, relationship issues, divorce, unhealthy boundaries, toxic boss, job burnout, lack of work/life balance, conflict/criticism/difficult people, dysfunctional family, shame/guilt, healing past pain/hurts & losses, Trauma/PTSD, decreased self-esteem/confidence & chronic pain. I also have in-depth experience/insight into the specialized field of working with all types of First Responders & their family members related to the job, crisis situations, secondary trauma & family issues.
Over 25 years clinical experience in helping adults struggling with workplace issues, everyday stressors, depression, anxiety/obsessive worry/panic attacks, relationship issues, divorce, unhealthy boundaries, toxic boss, job burnout, lack of work/life balance, conflict/criticism/difficult people, dysfunctional family, shame/guilt, healing past pain/hurts & losses, Trauma/PTSD, decreased self-esteem/confidence & chronic pain. I also have in-depth experience/insight into the specialized field of working with all types of First Responders & their family members related to the job, crisis situations, secondary trauma & family issues.
(214) 817-2327 View (214) 817-2327
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Wilson, NMD, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, LMTI, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Kimberly Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, NMD, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, LMTI
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
The pain and insomnia are persistent.
I help those of all ages, families and individuals, with complex physical, mental, or emotional struggles. You do not have to be consumed by mental or physical pain. We will work through the unhealthy patterns in your life and give a new outlook and way to approach things. You deserve a naturally balanced and well life, mind, and body. You deserve the best care! You deserve to make sense of what is going on in your life and understand what is going on in your mind and body, so that you can overcome your challenges. Let's move forward today. kimberlywilsonnmd.com/appointments
The pain and insomnia are persistent.
I help those of all ages, families and individuals, with complex physical, mental, or emotional struggles. You do not have to be consumed by mental or physical pain. We will work through the unhealthy patterns in your life and give a new outlook and way to approach things. You deserve a naturally balanced and well life, mind, and body. You deserve the best care! You deserve to make sense of what is going on in your life and understand what is going on in your mind and body, so that you can overcome your challenges. Let's move forward today. kimberlywilsonnmd.com/appointments
(972) 848-5290 View (972) 848-5290
Photo of Lisa Lee Besch, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Lee Besch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
Hi, I'm Lisa Besch, therapist, and owner of Renew Therapy and Wellness, PLLC. I understand that the struggle in life is real. I am passionate about walking alongside others, helping them find healing, and pursue growth. Trauma survivors are my specialty. I have worked alongside those who have experienced many traumas in their life. I understand what it is like to get triggered by something and react in a way you don't like. That is called a trauma response, and I can help you with those responses. Together we will process your trauma and find healing so that life won't be as stressful for you.
Hi, I'm Lisa Besch, therapist, and owner of Renew Therapy and Wellness, PLLC. I understand that the struggle in life is real. I am passionate about walking alongside others, helping them find healing, and pursue growth. Trauma survivors are my specialty. I have worked alongside those who have experienced many traumas in their life. I understand what it is like to get triggered by something and react in a way you don't like. That is called a trauma response, and I can help you with those responses. Together we will process your trauma and find healing so that life won't be as stressful for you.
(972) 736-9586 View (972) 736-9586
Photo of Amir Abbassi - Dr. Amir Abbassi, New Horizons Center for Healing, PhD, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Amir Abbassi, New Horizons Center for Healing
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
Dr. Abbassi is an expert in couple's communication and sexual issues. He is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist(LMFT), Certified Sex Therapist by American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and approved Supervisor of LPC and LMFT. He works with individual (children and Adults) in the area of depression, anxiety and general life difficulties. Dr. Abbassi has been in private practice for over 26 years. As a full Professor at local Institute of Higher Education, Dr. Abbassi teaches and provides supervision to Counseling Interns for both LPC & LMFT boards.
Dr. Abbassi is an expert in couple's communication and sexual issues. He is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist(LMFT), Certified Sex Therapist by American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and approved Supervisor of LPC and LMFT. He works with individual (children and Adults) in the area of depression, anxiety and general life difficulties. Dr. Abbassi has been in private practice for over 26 years. As a full Professor at local Institute of Higher Education, Dr. Abbassi teaches and provides supervision to Counseling Interns for both LPC & LMFT boards.
(972) 893-9868 View (972) 893-9868
Photo of Erin McClellan Lewis, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin McClellan Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I believe that our past experiences shape how we think, behave, and react to new experiences. However, some of our beliefs, fears, and habits hinder us in the present and negatively affect our behaviors. I view my role as helping clients develop alternative ways of thinking in order for clients to reach their desired goals.
I believe that our past experiences shape how we think, behave, and react to new experiences. However, some of our beliefs, fears, and habits hinder us in the present and negatively affect our behaviors. I view my role as helping clients develop alternative ways of thinking in order for clients to reach their desired goals.
(972) 236-7733 View (972) 236-7733
Photo of Rhonda Sue Smith, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rhonda Sue Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75072
I work with adults, teens, and children to make meaningful changes in their lives. Life can put us through some difficult times. Whether it is memories of a difficult childhood, a specific trauma, or a current challenging situation, life can be painful. I work with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, mood and dissociative disorders, trauma and PTSD. I truly love helping my clients. Let's work together to start your journey toward healing and inner peace.
I work with adults, teens, and children to make meaningful changes in their lives. Life can put us through some difficult times. Whether it is memories of a difficult childhood, a specific trauma, or a current challenging situation, life can be painful. I work with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, mood and dissociative disorders, trauma and PTSD. I truly love helping my clients. Let's work together to start your journey toward healing and inner peace.
(940) 412-6519 View (940) 412-6519
Photo of Dorit Bunker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dorit Bunker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Among Dorit’s areas of expertise are anxiety and depressive disorders, life transitions, severe mental illnesses, bi-polar disorder, personality disorders, addictions of all types, PTSD, self-harm, trauma, end of life issues, grief and loss, relationship concerns, gender/identity issues and more.
Dorit is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker holding a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin- Madison. She has extensive training and over 20 years of experience working with individuals and families in inpatient and outpatient settings, such as behavioral health hospitals, long term care facilities, correctional centers, medical hospitals and private practice. Dorit is passionate about her work, and is currently accepting new clients (13 and up) seeking individual counseling.
Among Dorit’s areas of expertise are anxiety and depressive disorders, life transitions, severe mental illnesses, bi-polar disorder, personality disorders, addictions of all types, PTSD, self-harm, trauma, end of life issues, grief and loss, relationship concerns, gender/identity issues and more.
Dorit is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker holding a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin- Madison. She has extensive training and over 20 years of experience working with individuals and families in inpatient and outpatient settings, such as behavioral health hospitals, long term care facilities, correctional centers, medical hospitals and private practice. Dorit is passionate about her work, and is currently accepting new clients (13 and up) seeking individual counseling.
(469) 829-7473 View (469) 829-7473
1
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.