Chronic Pain Therapists in Tucson, AZ

Kenneth Lee
Counselor, LPC, NCC
8 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85704
Waitlist for new clients
The weight of trauma, chronic pain, and societal stress can leave you feeling disconnected or exhausted.
I understand both emotional and physical pain — because I’ve been there. Therapy changed my life, and I became a therapist to help others heal like I have. I use evidence-based approaches like EMDR, DBT, ACT, the Gottman Method, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) to support growth, reduce suffering, and promote meaningful change.
The weight of trauma, chronic pain, and societal stress can leave you feeling disconnected or exhausted.
I understand both emotional and physical pain — because I’ve been there. Therapy changed my life, and I became a therapist to help others heal like I have. I use evidence-based approaches like EMDR, DBT, ACT, the Gottman Method, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) to support growth, reduce suffering, and promote meaningful change.
(520) 248-6601 View (520) 248-6601
Carolyn M. Guajardo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85704
My areas of focus include chronic pain, stress, and life transitions.
Together we will determine if Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy or Schema Therapy (or a mix of all!) is the best fit for you. For Chronic Pain, we will begin by allowing you to tell your story, to feel heard and validated, and then use these techniques to improve quality of life.
My areas of focus include chronic pain, stress, and life transitions.
Together we will determine if Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy or Schema Therapy (or a mix of all!) is the best fit for you. For Chronic Pain, we will begin by allowing you to tell your story, to feel heard and validated, and then use these techniques to improve quality of life.
(520) 462-2638 View (520) 462-2638
Lindsey Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, BCD
Online Only
I believe no one should carry that pain forever, and I take my role in facilitating recovery very seriously.
My ideal clients are those who recognize they have what it takes to move forward, are motivated to address their concerns, and are willing to actively engage in the therapeutic process. I see clients as the experts on themselves and the drivers of therapy, while I serve as the navigator, offering the map and tools to help them reach their goals.
I believe no one should carry that pain forever, and I take my role in facilitating recovery very seriously.
My ideal clients are those who recognize they have what it takes to move forward, are motivated to address their concerns, and are willing to actively engage in the therapeutic process. I see clients as the experts on themselves and the drivers of therapy, while I serve as the navigator, offering the map and tools to help them reach their goals.
(520) 842-8568 View (520) 842-8568
Clayton Stephens
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LASAC, MS
Tucson, AZ 85711
Trauma and PTSD, chronic pain, and psychosis-related conditions often overlap with substance use in complex ways.
Therapy with me is hard work. It asks for flexibility—being open to new ways of responding, thinking, and relating, even when that feels uncomfortable at first. That willingness to adapt is what allows change to last, rather than reverting to familiar patterns that only offer short-term relief.
Trauma and PTSD, chronic pain, and psychosis-related conditions often overlap with substance use in complex ways.
Therapy with me is hard work. It asks for flexibility—being open to new ways of responding, thinking, and relating, even when that feels uncomfortable at first. That willingness to adapt is what allows change to last, rather than reverting to familiar patterns that only offer short-term relief.
(520) 239-6623 View (520) 239-6623
Painted Desert Psychotherapy, Gwenn Herman, LCSW,
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW
Tucson, AZ 85712
My specialties are: alcoholism, various addictions, physical, sexual and verbal abuse, emotional and psychological issues, relationships, life transitions, grief, trauma, and chronic pain and overlapping conditions.
When I meet someone for the first time, I create a safe place free of judgement and open for them to tell their story. As they speak, I hear their words and voice tone. I look at their face, eyes, hands, feet, whole body, energy and see what they are also telling me. Then I develop a sense of who they are.
My specialties are: alcoholism, various addictions, physical, sexual and verbal abuse, emotional and psychological issues, relationships, life transitions, grief, trauma, and chronic pain and overlapping conditions.
When I meet someone for the first time, I create a safe place free of judgement and open for them to tell their story. As they speak, I hear their words and voice tone. I look at their face, eyes, hands, feet, whole body, energy and see what they are also telling me. Then I develop a sense of who they are.
(520) 231-7999 View (520) 231-7999
Sara Howard
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Online Only
Or, something physical; such as having experienced an event that is now impacting your daily life: living with chronic pain, not being able to sleep, or living with a critical or chronic illness.
I believe that you know yourself best, and that together, we will learn what works best for you for treatment. We will work together in creative ways to learn how to do things in a new way, to best meet your emotional and functional needs now. Together, we will discuss different approaches , options, and create a plan together.
Or, something physical; such as having experienced an event that is now impacting your daily life: living with chronic pain, not being able to sleep, or living with a critical or chronic illness.
I believe that you know yourself best, and that together, we will learn what works best for you for treatment. We will work together in creative ways to learn how to do things in a new way, to best meet your emotional and functional needs now. Together, we will discuss different approaches , options, and create a plan together.
(520) 462-4502 View (520) 462-4502
Deanna G McCaskill
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, NCC, CEDS
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Certified Eating Disorder Specialist with focus on trauma, self-harm behaviors, chronic pain and chronic illness.
Treating eating disorders, disordered eating and body image concerns is a passion of mine. In addition, I have extensive experience with teens, college students, and young adults. I am HAES-aligned, LGBTQIA+ and neuro affirming and work to help all humans feel safe. I have specialized training in working with first responders.
Certified Eating Disorder Specialist with focus on trauma, self-harm behaviors, chronic pain and chronic illness.
Treating eating disorders, disordered eating and body image concerns is a passion of mine. In addition, I have extensive experience with teens, college students, and young adults. I am HAES-aligned, LGBTQIA+ and neuro affirming and work to help all humans feel safe. I have specialized training in working with first responders.
(321) 765-3073 View (321) 765-3073
Angela Vilesshop
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, CPT, LMSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship stress, or the pressure to keep functioning while running on empty? I work with children, adults, couples, and military families seeking meaningful change—not just temporary coping. I work best with highly motivated clients who are ready to be compassionately challenged and practice change both during and between sessions. Together, we build on the strengths already within you, explore protective patterns, and use Relational Life Therapy, somatic awareness, practical skills, Play Therapy, and expressive arts to create greater safety, connection, and lasting progress.
Are you overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship stress, or the pressure to keep functioning while running on empty? I work with children, adults, couples, and military families seeking meaningful change—not just temporary coping. I work best with highly motivated clients who are ready to be compassionately challenged and practice change both during and between sessions. Together, we build on the strengths already within you, explore protective patterns, and use Relational Life Therapy, somatic awareness, practical skills, Play Therapy, and expressive arts to create greater safety, connection, and lasting progress.
(928) 821-7487 View (928) 821-7487
Laurielynn Schmit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85705
Being heard and understood is an essential aspect of therapy. It’s difficult to trust your counselor or make progress if that's absent. Deciding who to reach out to can be overwhelming: I offer a free phone consult so you can get your questions answered and gain a sense of who I am before committing to therapy. This is important work, which means you get to choose the best fit for you. Having worked as a therapist for almost 20 years now, I consistently receive feedback that I have a warm, calming presence. My style is compassionate & collaborative, focusing on somatic approaches, and I'm a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
Being heard and understood is an essential aspect of therapy. It’s difficult to trust your counselor or make progress if that's absent. Deciding who to reach out to can be overwhelming: I offer a free phone consult so you can get your questions answered and gain a sense of who I am before committing to therapy. This is important work, which means you get to choose the best fit for you. Having worked as a therapist for almost 20 years now, I consistently receive feedback that I have a warm, calming presence. My style is compassionate & collaborative, focusing on somatic approaches, and I'm a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
(520) 492-1590 View (520) 492-1590
Lorraine Myro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with adults, seniors and family units in the outpatient and community setting. Specialties include treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, and brain injury. My approach is comprehensive, individualized, and always optimistic. Treatment is trauma-informed with a strengths-based perspective. I look at how early childhood experiences and family systems shape who the client is today and effectively facilitate understanding and skill development in a manner that allows each client to develop confidence and esteem.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with adults, seniors and family units in the outpatient and community setting. Specialties include treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, and brain injury. My approach is comprehensive, individualized, and always optimistic. Treatment is trauma-informed with a strengths-based perspective. I look at how early childhood experiences and family systems shape who the client is today and effectively facilitate understanding and skill development in a manner that allows each client to develop confidence and esteem.
(520) 277-3834 View (520) 277-3834
Azita Abtin
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC
Tucson, AZ 85712
I have extensive experience with individual, couples and families, using systemic, psychodynamic and CBT, based on the client's needs. Experienced in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse/dependence, codependency, adjustment and grief, divorce, relationship, and personal growth issues for the last 25 years. I have assisted veterans and active duty personnel and their families since I was an Air Force officer. The Couples Manual, written for my patients, is accessible to public on Amazon and enhances couples' and clients' self awareness. I was honored as the Top 3 Marriage Counselors by Three Best Rated group in Tucson.
I have extensive experience with individual, couples and families, using systemic, psychodynamic and CBT, based on the client's needs. Experienced in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse/dependence, codependency, adjustment and grief, divorce, relationship, and personal growth issues for the last 25 years. I have assisted veterans and active duty personnel and their families since I was an Air Force officer. The Couples Manual, written for my patients, is accessible to public on Amazon and enhances couples' and clients' self awareness. I was honored as the Top 3 Marriage Counselors by Three Best Rated group in Tucson.
(520) 221-4197 View (520) 221-4197
Wendy Wunsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
Life can be overwhelming and painful. It takes courage and strength to reach out for help. By offering hope, support, feedback, education, and compassion, we will work together to improve the quality of your life as quickly as possible.
Life can be overwhelming and painful. It takes courage and strength to reach out for help. By offering hope, support, feedback, education, and compassion, we will work together to improve the quality of your life as quickly as possible.
(520) 660-4667 View (520) 660-4667
Vanessa De La Cruz
Counselor, MA , LPC, NCC
Tucson, AZ 85711
If you are feeling stuck in cycles of worry, experiencing persistent sadness or low motivation, or carrying the impact of past experiences, I can help you reconnect with yourself and move forward with greater clarity and confidence. I have helped clients navigate life transitions while building self confidence. I believe that healing happens in the context of safety, understanding, and a genuine therapeutic relationship. I specialize in anxiety, depression and trauma informed care. I help clients navigate life transitions such as college or divorce. I aim to provide a compassionate and nonjudgmental space for clients to heal.
If you are feeling stuck in cycles of worry, experiencing persistent sadness or low motivation, or carrying the impact of past experiences, I can help you reconnect with yourself and move forward with greater clarity and confidence. I have helped clients navigate life transitions while building self confidence. I believe that healing happens in the context of safety, understanding, and a genuine therapeutic relationship. I specialize in anxiety, depression and trauma informed care. I help clients navigate life transitions such as college or divorce. I aim to provide a compassionate and nonjudgmental space for clients to heal.
(520) 214-1213 View (520) 214-1213
Tamara Gittelson
Counselor, MA, LCPC, Analyst, LMHC, LPCC
Tucson, AZ 85718
I am not an agent of social adjustment or symptomatic melioration, but offer relief of inner pain, conflict and confusion.
Hi. Come talk about what matters to you most. Together, we walk. Explore. Clarify. I’m deeply commitment to the human experience and will help you feel better. I support widowed people, work deeply with those struggling with addiction, overcoming trauma, relationships, questions about polyamory, depression or abuse. If life has lost its meaning & you’re missing adventure, intimacy, greater self-expression and passion, let’s go. If you don’t talk about it, it won’t get better. I’m supportive, alternative, warm and kind. You’ll feel comfortable, challenge thoughts and perceptions preventing you from getting out of your own way.
I am not an agent of social adjustment or symptomatic melioration, but offer relief of inner pain, conflict and confusion.
Hi. Come talk about what matters to you most. Together, we walk. Explore. Clarify. I’m deeply commitment to the human experience and will help you feel better. I support widowed people, work deeply with those struggling with addiction, overcoming trauma, relationships, questions about polyamory, depression or abuse. If life has lost its meaning & you’re missing adventure, intimacy, greater self-expression and passion, let’s go. If you don’t talk about it, it won’t get better. I’m supportive, alternative, warm and kind. You’ll feel comfortable, challenge thoughts and perceptions preventing you from getting out of your own way.
(312) 410-8248 View (312) 410-8248
Audrey Zelia Smith
Counselor, MS, LAC
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85719
My approach to working with clients is warm and collaborative. I believe our trust-building and mutual collaboration are foundational to the process of change. I take a non-pathologizing approach to mental health, seeking out the root of the issues at hand.
My approach to working with clients is warm and collaborative. I believe our trust-building and mutual collaboration are foundational to the process of change. I take a non-pathologizing approach to mental health, seeking out the root of the issues at hand.
(520) 727-5267 View (520) 727-5267
Jaime (Jaim) Delvan
Counselor, LAC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide individual and relationship therapy, covering topics such as non-monogamy , anxiety, depression, chronic pain, attachment, communication, boundaries—integrating, mindfulness, and practical tools.
Therapy, by nature, has to make room for the complexity of being human in a messy world. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that no longer fit can make things feel even more complex and messy. And existing in the intersection of marginalized identities intensifies everything. It’s important to reach out for support when we need a little extra help navigating all that. If you’re looking for a queer therapist who offers support that helps you understand yourself more deeply, strengthen connection, and build a life that feels more aligned and sustainable, I'd love to talk with you.
I provide individual and relationship therapy, covering topics such as non-monogamy , anxiety, depression, chronic pain, attachment, communication, boundaries—integrating, mindfulness, and practical tools.
Therapy, by nature, has to make room for the complexity of being human in a messy world. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that no longer fit can make things feel even more complex and messy. And existing in the intersection of marginalized identities intensifies everything. It’s important to reach out for support when we need a little extra help navigating all that. If you’re looking for a queer therapist who offers support that helps you understand yourself more deeply, strengthen connection, and build a life that feels more aligned and sustainable, I'd love to talk with you.
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Spenser Hughes
Psychologist, PhD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I also specialize in working with people who have trouble sleeping, losing weight, chronic pain, quitting smoking/vaping, and adjusting to medical illnesses like cancer, diabetes, and dementia.
My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and encouraging. I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to help people achieve their goals. I can describe these treatments in detail and we can arrive at a decision together as to which will be the most effective for you.
I also specialize in working with people who have trouble sleeping, losing weight, chronic pain, quitting smoking/vaping, and adjusting to medical illnesses like cancer, diabetes, and dementia.
My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and encouraging. I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to help people achieve their goals. I can describe these treatments in detail and we can arrive at a decision together as to which will be the most effective for you.
(623) 292-3201 View (623) 292-3201
Gerald Whitehawk
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85715
I believe that the main cause of mental illness is fragmented awareness and esoteric wisdom centered therapy creates stable self-transformation that integrates good along with the bad in a "sense-of-self-as-part-of-'as-is'-life
Are you too fatigued, worried, depressed or unable to fall asleep? Are you grieving or experiencing painful flashbacks and overwhelming emotions? Is mind racing and feel that you don't fit in the world, anymore? Are you feeling hopeless and helpless? Conventional, one-size-fits-all therapeutic models lack authenticity, in stark contrast with the uniqueness of individual life. I'm an Esotherapist(tm) and Australian Level 4 Registered Counselor (LPC equivalent) living in US and specializing in PTSD, depression, anxiety/panic, grief, addictions, relationships, existential and identity crises. I am also a clinical hypnotherapist, NLP practitioner and life-coach.
I believe that the main cause of mental illness is fragmented awareness and esoteric wisdom centered therapy creates stable self-transformation that integrates good along with the bad in a "sense-of-self-as-part-of-'as-is'-life
Are you too fatigued, worried, depressed or unable to fall asleep? Are you grieving or experiencing painful flashbacks and overwhelming emotions? Is mind racing and feel that you don't fit in the world, anymore? Are you feeling hopeless and helpless? Conventional, one-size-fits-all therapeutic models lack authenticity, in stark contrast with the uniqueness of individual life. I'm an Esotherapist(tm) and Australian Level 4 Registered Counselor (LPC equivalent) living in US and specializing in PTSD, depression, anxiety/panic, grief, addictions, relationships, existential and identity crises. I am also a clinical hypnotherapist, NLP practitioner and life-coach.
(520) 447-3263 View (520) 447-3263
Deshanaye Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I'm glad you're here. I'm a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker helping clients navigate challenges and achieve their goals with clarity and confidence. My practice is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and practical strategies tailored to your unique needs. Let’s work together to create meaningful, lasting change.
I'm glad you're here. I'm a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker helping clients navigate challenges and achieve their goals with clarity and confidence. My practice is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and practical strategies tailored to your unique needs. Let’s work together to create meaningful, lasting change.
(928) 260-5240 View (928) 260-5240
Somatic Love & Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor, SEP, LPCC, NCC, RYT
4 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85715
Hello! Searching for a therapist is daunting, isn’t it? Phew. Congratulations on the decision to find a therapist to walk with you through one of the more difficult parts of being a human. We feel honored to be considered. We work with humans who have experienced trauma or nervous system dysregulation and are looking for relief. It’s entirely possible to feel relief, and have a life that feels more easeful. We are amazed by innate capacity each human has for wholeness and authenticity. Reaching out can be a terrifying; We're so proud of you for starting your journey.
Hello! Searching for a therapist is daunting, isn’t it? Phew. Congratulations on the decision to find a therapist to walk with you through one of the more difficult parts of being a human. We feel honored to be considered. We work with humans who have experienced trauma or nervous system dysregulation and are looking for relief. It’s entirely possible to feel relief, and have a life that feels more easeful. We are amazed by innate capacity each human has for wholeness and authenticity. Reaching out can be a terrifying; We're so proud of you for starting your journey.
(520) 389-6266 View (520) 389-6266

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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.