This workshop has been intentionally designed to support folx with interstitial cystitis (IC) through the use of evidence-based psychotherapy strategies, as well as community-building, to manage chronic pain and improve overall well-being. Through a blend of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CT), and Mindfulness-Based Strategies, the overarching goal here is to discover compassionate (and applicable) approaches to living a fuller life with IC. 1-Day event on Sunday 11/3.
Hosted by Trinity Perini
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Raleigh, NC 27609
Living with chronic pain, I’m intimately aware of the toll it takes on the body, mind, and spirit— how it’s woven into the fabric of all aspects of living, how it has a tendency to keep us tethered to fear, hopelessness, and isolation.
My approach during session is warm, direct, and I love a good (appropriately timed) laugh. Along with engaging in traditional talk-therapy and utilizing evidenced-based techniques (ACT, CBT, DBT, & Pain-Reprocessing Therapy), I enjoy incorporating other resources such as books (fiction and nonfiction), podcasts, poetry, art, and anything related to nature!
This Group focuses on the difficulties of parenting children while experiencing chronic pain. This group will explore the dynamics of parenting and chronic pain, pain de-escalation skills, pain pacing specific to parenting, exploration of children's reactions and feelings when having a parent in chronic pain or illness, and psychoeducational on pain. This group is virtual. Please visit my website for more information on days/times. Group is open to NC, SC, and GA.
Hosted by Lucy Dunning
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS, BC-TMC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Group meets in Charlotte, NC 28226
I specialize in working with patients and families who experience Chronic Illness and Pain.
Helping clients reach and maintain an improved quality of life, I work with clients on processing anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma experienced from managing a chronic illness. I am patient-centered, helping clients move forward and creating a new sense of self, helping clients move forward in their health journey and quality of life.
The diagnosis of a life limiting illness can turn your wold upside down. It can be difficult to make sense of an initial diagnosis, to get a better perspective and find compassionate support. Fear, disbelief, denial and anger are all common reactions. Everyone's experience is unique, but the need for support is universal. Call today to learn how you can join and benefit. Better Together is not a therapy group. It is a counselor led peer support group.
Hosted by Lauren Griffin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
We are dealt challenges: relationship issues, mid-life crises, assertiveness, self-confidence, self esteem, sadness/grief, pet loss, family-of-origin issues, fear of success, career changes, emotional and mood challenges, anxiety, stress and compulsive eating, life limiting illness, or the effects of trauma.
I use a transformational approach to help you develop resilience to ride life's stressors and create the outcome that serves you best. My style is nurturing, kind, and collaborative. For over 20 years, clients have sought me out because they want something different in their lives.
Our free weekly support is a safe space where you can discuss and process anything you find yourself struggling with. This group is a very loose and laid back environment and we encourage you to join us with what ever is on your heart and mind. Our support group is completely free, and occurs every Wednesday at 6:00
Hosted by Chronic Hope Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Raleigh, NC 27615
anxious, isolated, lonely or simply want to learn how to live your best life with your pain Chronic Hope is the place to be.
We offer individual, couples, family, play therapy and group counseling that all focus around overcoming pain personally or with loved ones. When one person in a family and/or couple is in pain it effects the dynamics of every person involved. We work with the family and/or couple as a unit to help all involved live beyond the pain.
This virtual group will focus on supporting adults (18+) struggling with life experience relating to diagnosis of chronic illness, autoimmune disorders, and long term complications from COVID- 19 illness. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction therapeutic approaches will be utilized in group setting as well as providing space to seek support from others struggling with similar experiences.
Hosted by Vanessa Guerrero
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Weaverville, NC 28787
I work primarily with female adolescents and young adults with a history of chronic illness, trauma, perfectionism, depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders.
Currently Accepting Clients ( Telehealth/in person) My name is Vanessa Guererro and I am a clinical therapist with Winter to Spring Wellness.Prior to being in Asheville for almost a decade, I originally hail from Miami, Fl. I am a proud daughter of Cuban immigrants and a first-generation college student. As a teen I had my own battles with physical and mental wellness, difficulties with acculturation as well as struggled with cultural stigma in regard to mental health care. Through my own work, I have been able to find healing and am now honored to support others who struggle with their own mental wellness and similar issues.
October 30 - November 20, 2019 Wednesdays, 6:00 - 7:30pm All Levels Welcome $80/series www.youryoga.com This series will break down mindfulness into an understandable format so that you can integrate the practice into your life with clear and effective strategies. Each class will include mindful flow and restorative yoga, guided meditation, somatic psychology, neuroscience and group sharing. You will receive the great benefits of being part of a community during this course, which includes peer support, reflection and knowing you are not alone in your experience. Designed for all levels of experience with yoga, meditation and mindfulness.
Hosted by Maeve Hendrix
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RYT 500, YACEP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
I specialize in working with adults who are caregivers (teachers, therapists, nurses, familial caregivers, etc.), and wanting to connect to themselves more deeply while creating healthy boundaries for burnout prevention and recovery. I offer encouraging and inquisitive presence as we work together to resource your unique nervous system, as well as cultivate self-acceptance and resilience during pivotal times of change, stress, loss, life transitions, relationship changes and spiritual explorations.
CURRENTLY ENROLLING: This online-only group aims to provide support and guidance to clients undergoing chronic physical illnesses. Topics covered include grief, living with disability, finding meaning, difficulties in navigating the health system, impact on relationships and work, cultivating hope and moving forward. My training and experience as a physician, psychiatrist and psychotherapist gives me an in-depth understanding of the complexities of living with a chronic physical illness. This will be a 6 week group with the option to continue an ongoing open-ended process group based on participant interest.
My goal is to create a safe, warm and compassionate space for my patients. I provide both short term and long term psychotherapy and medication management, if needed. In my work, I aim to delve beyond diagnostic labels to uncover the core issues underlying clinical symptoms. This process acknowledges each individual’s unique experience and helps minimize reliance on medications. My clinical expertise includes working with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, grief, life transitions, chronic physical illnesses, workplace burnout, academic stress and immigrant, expat and minority stress.
A psychotherapy processing group integrating somatic experiencing, mindfulness, and emotion focused therapy to treat/address symptoms ranging from anxiety, depression, PTSD, unexplained physical pain, fatigue, or illness. This group provides an opportunity to explore and address the underlying concerns, as well as, learning effective strategies for coping with and healing them. It is intended to: create a support network for women with common struggles; a place to share honestly about these struggles, feelings, and receive supportive feedback; deal with what is happening emotionally in the moment; and to access the places within that are traditionally or automatically avoided or downplayed.
Hosted by InBloom Relationship Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Durham, NC 27703
{{{{ ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS }}}} Good therapy begins with a strong relationship between therapist and client, and I believe that creating this empathic connection is one of my greatest strengths. I provide a client-centered, strength-based, affirmative approach that is warm and welcoming — a safe space where clients can share, process, and experience their thoughts and emotions. I am committed to meeting clients where they would like to begin their journey, working collaboratively toward healing, acceptance, purpose, well-being, and fulfillment.
Mindfulness Meditation helps us to reconnect with ourselves through our hectic lifestyles. Although mindfulness appears to be fairly easy, it can be quite challenging. But no worries... I will guide you in how this particular meditation is done and how to overcome the challenges. This particular type of meditation has numerous research studies showing it to be exceptionally researched in the reduction of anxiety and pain issues. I will also talk about aromatherapy that can be included to help facilitate the changes that will occur and I work with you to what may be beneficial for you.
Hosted by Julie A Hovrud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, CMIP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Raleigh, NC 27614
Addressing challenges in our personal life is not easy. While a common reaction to difficulties and challenges is to attempt to avoid them, it seldom solves the problem. Friends can help with some struggles in life, while other challenges need unbiased, emotional support from a professional. I utilize compassion and practical feedback to help you effectively address these difficulties and challenges. My style of therapy utilizes an eclectic approach to personalize and tailor the therapy to your needs. I help individuals and couples recognize and build on strengths to attain growth and help facilitate change to enrich your life.
Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) is an evidence-based type of therapy that retrains the brain to interpret and respond to signals from the body differently, with the goal of breaking the cycle of chronic pain or other symptoms. This group will teach you about the brain’s role in chronic pain, and you will learn techniques to take control of your pain and gain relief from symptoms in a supportive environment with others going through the same process.
Hosted by Amy Schere
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Raleigh, NC 27609
Each person comes to therapy with a unique story to tell. My role is to listen to your story, to witness your struggles and successes, and to empower you to make the changes you want. With a background working as a healthcare provider, I understand how closely linked the mind and body are. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, holistic, and aims to address minds and bodies together as one. Additionally, I practice from an anti-oppressive, body positive/Health at Every Size, inclusive perspective.
The Endometriosis Warrior Group is an ongoing online support group designed to empower and support individuals (ages 20s-40s) navigating life with Endometriosis. As an Endo Warrior myself, I’ve experienced the challenges of the medical system firsthand and use my knowledge to help others. In this group, you’ll learn about Endometriosis, gain self-advocacy tools for medical appointments, connect with fellow Endo Warriors, and feel validated in a compassionate, supportive environment. Interested in joining? Email me for more details!
Hosted by Breanna Crisp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Charlotte, NC 28269
Do you feel like you are in the same relationships all the time no matter who you are with? Perhaps experiencing attachment to unhealthy patterns and/or people? Maybe you had an unpleasant medical experience and now fear care. Perhaps you look in the mirror and don't feel your best. Maybe you have difficulty saying "no" and lean towards "people-pleasing" tendencies. Because people would be mad at you, right? Do you have difficulty with boundaries? Maybe some FOMO or isolating in your sweats watching Netflix but you want more social interactions? If you answered yes to any or all of these, you are in the right place!
This virtual monthly support group is for adult women (age 20s-30s) looking for support and community on their health journey. Living with chronic illness or trauma can be overwhelming, and I aim to create a safe, empowering space where you feel heard and supported. The group is small, with a maximum of 12 members, and meets online for 60 minutes each month. No matter your condition or level of chronic pain, you’re welcome to join us. Reach out today for more information.
Hosted by Breanna Crisp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Charlotte, NC 28204
Do you feel like you are in the same relationships all the time no matter who you are with? Perhaps experiencing attachment to unhealthy patterns and/or people? Maybe you had an unpleasant medical experience and now fear care. Perhaps you look in the mirror and don't feel your best. Maybe you have difficulty saying "no" and lean towards "people-pleasing" tendencies. Because people would be mad at you, right? Do you have difficulty with boundaries? Maybe some FOMO or isolating in your sweats watching Netflix but you want more social interactions? If you answered yes to any or all of these, you are in the right place!
Struggling with chronic pain? Discover EMPOWER, a virtual group where your battle becomes a journey of empowerment. More than managing pain, it’s about transforming your life. Within a supportive community, learn strategies to ease discomfort, set impactful goals, and enhance relationships. EMPOWER equips you with tools for control and resilience, aiming for a life not defined by pain but by strength and fulfillment. Reclaim your power and join us on this path, utilizing every resource to cultivate a life filled with more joy and less pain. Together, let’s navigate towards empowerment and well-being.
If you’re seeking support and thinking, "Life has been good. Shouldn’t I be happy?" - you’re not alone. I’ve heard these words from clients countless times. Other clients find me because they know exactly the harms that bring them in - some for the first time, others wondering “Why is this bothering me again?” The stress of trauma (and every-day stresses) can escalate when a medical issue arises for your or a loved one. Chronic stress can also show up as medical vulnerability. With decades of training and working alongside medical professionals, I am always honored to support clinicians in tending to their own health and well-being.
The Broken Bowl is an expressive arts workshop to process grief and loss based on the Japanese art of Kintsugi. Kintsugi embraces the concept that accepting imperfections can allow one to create a more powerful and beautiful piece of art. The bowl serves as metaphor for accepting change and finding the growth it inevitably brings. All materials are provided and no art experience is needed. Meets Monday August 5, 2024.
Hosted by Maria Curran
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Group meets in Charlotte, NC 28209
Clients motivated to make change or enhance their interpersonal skills and relationships are my forte. I like working with clients of all ages on family relationships, interpersonal skills, parenting and co-parenting, anxiety/depression management, creativity and personal growth. I also have extensive experience working with domestic violence and trauma victims and adoptive families. I employ experiential techniques to enhance communication and understanding throughout the healing and growth process. I also provide Child Specialist services for collaborative/cooperative divorce candidates and parent coaching/consultation.
The Broken Bowl is an expressive arts workshop to process grief and loss based on the Japanese art of Kintsugi. Kintsugi embraces the concept that accepting imperfections can allow one to create a more powerful and beautiful piece of art. The bowl serves as metaphor for accepting change and finding the growth it inevitably brings. All materials are provided and no art experience is needed. Meets Wednesday, February 12, 2025.
Hosted by Maria Curran
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Group meets in Charlotte, NC 28209
Clients motivated to make change or enhance their interpersonal skills and relationships are my forte. I like working with clients of all ages on family relationships, interpersonal skills, parenting and co-parenting, anxiety/depression management, creativity and personal growth. I also have extensive experience working with domestic violence and trauma victims and adoptive families. I employ experiential techniques to enhance communication and understanding throughout the healing and growth process. I also provide Child Specialist services for collaborative/cooperative divorce candidates and parent coaching/consultation.
BALANCE provides a monthly online support group for those living with chronic health conditions and/or pain and their family members. Supporting Balance is scheduled the second Friday of the month at 11:00 am and is offered free of charge. Please contact BALANCE at 910.232.5778 or sarah@thpartnership.com if you are interested in attending.
Hosted by Sarah Brownlee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMBT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Wilmington, NC 28403
It is part of the human experience for our bodies to experience pain or illness.
Balance Integrative Care, PLLC is a unique integrative counseling practice that offers support in managing acute and chronic pain, long-term health concerns, and emotional/psychological symptoms that frequently accompany prolonged experiences of illness and pain.
HMH Counseling PLLC focuses on holistic mental health counseling; treating the person as a whole. I utilize my experience working in medical settings to address the emotional and psychological side of chronic health issues to empower you to advocate for yourself in the medical space.
Hosted by Loriann DeVito
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Charlotte, NC 28205
Life satisfaction begins with a healthy relationship with yourself. I help individuals experiencing chronic health issues, health anxiety, life transitions, and career issues improve their quality of life. Whether you feel depressed, anxious, or stressed, having a safe space to explore the root of your suffering is important.
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Chronic Pain Support Groups
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.