Chronic Pain Therapists in Anchorage, AK

Photo of Deborah M Gonzales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Deborah M Gonzales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, CHT, CFSW
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
ALL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOW VIA TELE-HEALTH to clients anywhere in Alaska, N.C. or FL https://youtu.be/3rgHRqrzuEg Are you stressed out, anxious? Overwhelmed? Struggling with perfection? Do you deal with chronic pain or illness? Are you having communication problems with your partner? Is your plate too full and are you struggling to keep up? I PROMISE to respond to your Email and/or request for an appointment in less than 24 hours. When you reach out for help, you deserve to be heard and respected with a timely response.
ALL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOW VIA TELE-HEALTH to clients anywhere in Alaska, N.C. or FL https://youtu.be/3rgHRqrzuEg Are you stressed out, anxious? Overwhelmed? Struggling with perfection? Do you deal with chronic pain or illness? Are you having communication problems with your partner? Is your plate too full and are you struggling to keep up? I PROMISE to respond to your Email and/or request for an appointment in less than 24 hours. When you reach out for help, you deserve to be heard and respected with a timely response.
(907) 891-8699 View (907) 891-8699
Photo of Mind Matters Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Mind Matters Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99508
Chronic pain, chronic disease, rare conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and the emotional and physical symptoms they cause can be extremely challenging.
Medical challenges present many problems--sleep deprivation, implementing nutritional requirements, and family members unable to understand your medical challenges and pain. I offer several forms of therapy, based on preference. I have developed protocols based on a decade of research to help you manage your anxiety, depression, pain perception, and sleep and nutritional behaviors. Protocols help with medically-induced PTSD. Critical thinking protocols help make medical decisions when you are feeling overwhelmed but must choose from more than one recommendation. The shared practice model offers multiple skill sets.
Chronic pain, chronic disease, rare conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and the emotional and physical symptoms they cause can be extremely challenging.
Medical challenges present many problems--sleep deprivation, implementing nutritional requirements, and family members unable to understand your medical challenges and pain. I offer several forms of therapy, based on preference. I have developed protocols based on a decade of research to help you manage your anxiety, depression, pain perception, and sleep and nutritional behaviors. Protocols help with medically-induced PTSD. Critical thinking protocols help make medical decisions when you are feeling overwhelmed but must choose from more than one recommendation. The shared practice model offers multiple skill sets.
(907) 202-6448 View (907) 202-6448
Photo of Kokoro Counseling Alaska, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Kokoro Counseling Alaska, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, postpartum, substance use problems, relationship issues, chronic illness, grief, and stress issues.
Evening and Weekend hours are available for Telehealth. Starting April 2024, office hours will be Sundays through Thursdays (3:30 pm - 8:00 pm). Please send an inquiry or request to have a free 15-minute phone consultation. If you are hurting, fearful, confused, sad, stressed, or surrounded by overwhelming things in life, I am here to guide you through; to cultivate and reconnect with your innate strength to heal your wounds and live a quality life. My focus is to work collaboratively with you to find a unique and individualized process or solution that would take you further along in your healing journey.
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, postpartum, substance use problems, relationship issues, chronic illness, grief, and stress issues.
Evening and Weekend hours are available for Telehealth. Starting April 2024, office hours will be Sundays through Thursdays (3:30 pm - 8:00 pm). Please send an inquiry or request to have a free 15-minute phone consultation. If you are hurting, fearful, confused, sad, stressed, or surrounded by overwhelming things in life, I am here to guide you through; to cultivate and reconnect with your innate strength to heal your wounds and live a quality life. My focus is to work collaboratively with you to find a unique and individualized process or solution that would take you further along in your healing journey.
(907) 318-8601 View (907) 318-8601
Photo of Breanna James, Occupational Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Breanna James
Occupational Therapist, OTD, OTR/L
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99517  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Examples of interventions include: Energy conservation; Management of musculoskeletal conditions, including pain; self-care retraining; and modifying environments to maximize everyday performance.
Are you an adult with autism, ADHD or a traumatic brain injury who struggles with everyday activities? Do you want to implement healthy habits and routines into your daily life, but don't know where to start? Does sensory overload make it difficult for you to go to work, parent, and have fun? Or do you want to create a daily routine that makes you feel fulfilled and not burnt out? I am a board certified occupational therapist with specialty trainings, certifications, and experience in treating neurological conditions (i.e. traumatic brain injury; stroke), chronic illnesses, and mental conditions (i.e. autism, ADHD).
Examples of interventions include: Energy conservation; Management of musculoskeletal conditions, including pain; self-care retraining; and modifying environments to maximize everyday performance.
Are you an adult with autism, ADHD or a traumatic brain injury who struggles with everyday activities? Do you want to implement healthy habits and routines into your daily life, but don't know where to start? Does sensory overload make it difficult for you to go to work, parent, and have fun? Or do you want to create a daily routine that makes you feel fulfilled and not burnt out? I am a board certified occupational therapist with specialty trainings, certifications, and experience in treating neurological conditions (i.e. traumatic brain injury; stroke), chronic illnesses, and mental conditions (i.e. autism, ADHD).
(907) 531-9443 View (907) 531-9443
Photo of Lawrence Whitaker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Lawrence Whitaker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Accepting telehealth clients. Really enjoy helping others find relief & working with all types of issues whether it be a life change or lingering relationship issues, I am excited to work with you. I have been lucky enough to have worked in a variety of settings giving me unique insight to critical life situations such as: divorce, loss of a loved one, legal issues, family members with severe mental illness. Master’s Level Licensed Mental Health Professional letter for emotional support animal-related services (assessments and therapeutic counseling) for adults.
Accepting telehealth clients. Really enjoy helping others find relief & working with all types of issues whether it be a life change or lingering relationship issues, I am excited to work with you. I have been lucky enough to have worked in a variety of settings giving me unique insight to critical life situations such as: divorce, loss of a loved one, legal issues, family members with severe mental illness. Master’s Level Licensed Mental Health Professional letter for emotional support animal-related services (assessments and therapeutic counseling) for adults.
(907) 420-4764 View (907) 420-4764
Photo of Cheryl Childers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Cheryl Childers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ATR-BC, RPT
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
As someone who has experienced past sexual / physical abuse, or chronic illness, do you often wonder how you can move past the overwhelming shame and pain? Have you tried “everything” but nothing seems to alleviate the flashbacks or unwanted memories. Do you want to stop dissociating? Do you long be free of anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts; longing for connection, worthiness, and to tell your story with a safe, non-judgmental person. Are you willing to examine thoughts, emotions, behaviors and learn how to utilize your whole self, develop shame resilience—transforming the way you live & love in your current relationships?
As someone who has experienced past sexual / physical abuse, or chronic illness, do you often wonder how you can move past the overwhelming shame and pain? Have you tried “everything” but nothing seems to alleviate the flashbacks or unwanted memories. Do you want to stop dissociating? Do you long be free of anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts; longing for connection, worthiness, and to tell your story with a safe, non-judgmental person. Are you willing to examine thoughts, emotions, behaviors and learn how to utilize your whole self, develop shame resilience—transforming the way you live & love in your current relationships?
(864) 501-3633 View (864) 501-3633
Photo of Heather Caldwell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Heather Caldwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
Life can get overwhelming and it's easy to feel lost, anxious, and/or depressed, bogged down with busy schedules, work issues, childhood trauma, chronic pain, relationship/intimacy conflicts, complicated parent and/or child relationships, questioning one's identity or coming into one's sexuality - and well, it can feel like too much! These compounding stressors impact our ability to connect with ourselves and with others, as well as our ability to lead satisfying and full lives. My hope is that together, you can (re)discover your path to a fulfilled and integrated life by embodying your emotional, spiritual, and creative self.
Life can get overwhelming and it's easy to feel lost, anxious, and/or depressed, bogged down with busy schedules, work issues, childhood trauma, chronic pain, relationship/intimacy conflicts, complicated parent and/or child relationships, questioning one's identity or coming into one's sexuality - and well, it can feel like too much! These compounding stressors impact our ability to connect with ourselves and with others, as well as our ability to lead satisfying and full lives. My hope is that together, you can (re)discover your path to a fulfilled and integrated life by embodying your emotional, spiritual, and creative self.
(888) 564-0124 View (888) 564-0124
Photo of Refocus Counseling Ministry, Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Refocus Counseling Ministry, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99501
25+ years of clinical experience serving adolescents, adults, couples/families finding their way, we are confident that you too can find healing and restoration from pain! State Supervisor, Board Certified, Licensed, EMDR, EAGALA, PREP, Playtherapist, Love&Logic, Christian Clinical, Certified Specialized Therapists for Individuals, Children and Families.
There are times you may experience life controlled by intense emotions or paralyzing anxiety/fear, detached numbness takes over. Traumatic memories that are overwhelming, causing insomnia or night tears. Facing another day in Alaska with loneliness, regrets and even suicidal ideation is too much! Relationships suffer from conflict and lack of intimacy, distraction is inevitable.Teen conflict, locked in power struggles without solutions that result in endless frustration dominating your time. Emotional control, seems like only a vague dream, that is illusive and beyond you. You are on your way towards healing, We can show you with
25+ years of clinical experience serving adolescents, adults, couples/families finding their way, we are confident that you too can find healing and restoration from pain! State Supervisor, Board Certified, Licensed, EMDR, EAGALA, PREP, Playtherapist, Love&Logic, Christian Clinical, Certified Specialized Therapists for Individuals, Children and Families.
There are times you may experience life controlled by intense emotions or paralyzing anxiety/fear, detached numbness takes over. Traumatic memories that are overwhelming, causing insomnia or night tears. Facing another day in Alaska with loneliness, regrets and even suicidal ideation is too much! Relationships suffer from conflict and lack of intimacy, distraction is inevitable.Teen conflict, locked in power struggles without solutions that result in endless frustration dominating your time. Emotional control, seems like only a vague dream, that is illusive and beyond you. You are on your way towards healing, We can show you with
(907) 521-8504 View (907) 521-8504
Photo of Kristina Kruchowski in Anchorage, AK
Kristina Kruchowski
PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99507
Kristina's private practice, Confidential Care, LLC, is focused exclusively on patients with psychiatric illness and mental health concerns. She specializes in diagnostic assessments and psychopharmacological (medication) management for adults. She has extensive knowledge and experience in diagnosing and treating Mood disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Panic Disorder, Major Depression, Schizophrenia, and Other Psychotic Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Substance abuse and dependency, and other mental health conditions. Kristina's goal is to provide a therapeutic alliance with patients to help promote positive mental health.
Kristina's private practice, Confidential Care, LLC, is focused exclusively on patients with psychiatric illness and mental health concerns. She specializes in diagnostic assessments and psychopharmacological (medication) management for adults. She has extensive knowledge and experience in diagnosing and treating Mood disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Panic Disorder, Major Depression, Schizophrenia, and Other Psychotic Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Substance abuse and dependency, and other mental health conditions. Kristina's goal is to provide a therapeutic alliance with patients to help promote positive mental health.
(907) 312-2034 View (907) 312-2034
Photo of Cesre McQuaid, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Cesre McQuaid
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99515
Waitlist for new clients
It is possible to brave your deepest feelings and face what in your life isn’t working. Whether you are struggling with a specific issue, or feel that there should be more to life, counseling can help enhance the trust you have in yourself. Together we can strengthen your self-worth and better understand the significance of your relationships. Navigating current stressors and processing past emotional pain is possible. My goal is to assist you in developing somatic and energetic awareness, discovering solutions for a better future. I provide counseling services in an accepting and supportive environment, for adults and couples.
It is possible to brave your deepest feelings and face what in your life isn’t working. Whether you are struggling with a specific issue, or feel that there should be more to life, counseling can help enhance the trust you have in yourself. Together we can strengthen your self-worth and better understand the significance of your relationships. Navigating current stressors and processing past emotional pain is possible. My goal is to assist you in developing somatic and energetic awareness, discovering solutions for a better future. I provide counseling services in an accepting and supportive environment, for adults and couples.
(907) 766-3600 View (907) 766-3600
Photo of Kirsten Strolle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Kirsten Strolle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99517  (Online Only)
Are you ready to embark on a journey of profound healing and transformation? If you've been struggling with the lingering effects of complex trauma and experience persistent anxiety, panic, chronic pain, depression, difficulty feeling loved, people-pleasing, perfectionism and difficulty embracing your authentic self, I'm here to offer you a guiding hand toward recovery and resilience.
Are you ready to embark on a journey of profound healing and transformation? If you've been struggling with the lingering effects of complex trauma and experience persistent anxiety, panic, chronic pain, depression, difficulty feeling loved, people-pleasing, perfectionism and difficulty embracing your authentic self, I'm here to offer you a guiding hand toward recovery and resilience.
(833) 315-7242 View (833) 315-7242
Photo of Refocus Intensive Therapy Program, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Refocus Intensive Therapy Program
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503
Introducing Outpatient Intensive Therapy: “Unlocking Healing Potential” Are you tired of feeling stuck and frustrated in your journey towards emotional well-being? Traditional weekly counseling sessions may not be enough for individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, or anxiety stemming from past or present-day experiences. We understand that accessing and processing buried pain can be overwhelming within the confines of a short therapy session. That's why we offer a groundbreaking solution: Outpatient Intensive Therapy. Our program is specifically designed for individuals in need of intensive intervention and treatment.
Introducing Outpatient Intensive Therapy: “Unlocking Healing Potential” Are you tired of feeling stuck and frustrated in your journey towards emotional well-being? Traditional weekly counseling sessions may not be enough for individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, or anxiety stemming from past or present-day experiences. We understand that accessing and processing buried pain can be overwhelming within the confines of a short therapy session. That's why we offer a groundbreaking solution: Outpatient Intensive Therapy. Our program is specifically designed for individuals in need of intensive intervention and treatment.
(907) 521-8504 View (907) 521-8504
Photo of 333 PM, Psychologist in Anchorage, AK
333 PM
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
I have experience working with homeless veterans who were being beat down by the symptoms of their severe mental illness.
I have extensive experience in working with people who have lived through less than ideal circumstances. Many of my clients have learned to overcome sexual abuse, have been able to move past the pains brought on by physical violence, many have worked through horrific memories of active duty, and others have learned to enjoy life even after making some poor decisions that will impact them forever.
I have experience working with homeless veterans who were being beat down by the symptoms of their severe mental illness.
I have extensive experience in working with people who have lived through less than ideal circumstances. Many of my clients have learned to overcome sexual abuse, have been able to move past the pains brought on by physical violence, many have worked through horrific memories of active duty, and others have learned to enjoy life even after making some poor decisions that will impact them forever.
(855) 949-0263 View (855) 949-0263
Photo of Jen Gessert-White Wave Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Jen Gessert-White Wave Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CDC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99501
Are you bogged down by issues that have gone on for far too long? Do you want to break free from bad habits, old ways of thinking of yourself, or restrictive fears? It is my life passion to help people overcome the shadows that trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, and difficult relationships cast on their outlook and self-concept. I consider it a great honor to help my clients navigate their lives to being their full, vibrant, uninhibited, healthy selves. I customize my approach including session duration and frequency to best meet their needs. I am currently accepting new clients, so feel free to get in touch with me.
Are you bogged down by issues that have gone on for far too long? Do you want to break free from bad habits, old ways of thinking of yourself, or restrictive fears? It is my life passion to help people overcome the shadows that trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, and difficult relationships cast on their outlook and self-concept. I consider it a great honor to help my clients navigate their lives to being their full, vibrant, uninhibited, healthy selves. I customize my approach including session duration and frequency to best meet their needs. I am currently accepting new clients, so feel free to get in touch with me.
(907) 313-8478 View (907) 313-8478
Photo of Gabriele M Roschlau, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Gabriele M Roschlau
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99508
Do you experience times when you are controlled by intense emotions or are paralyzed by anxiety/fear, and at other times you feel detached and numb. Are you haunted by traumatic memories that overwhelm you or disturb your sleep with vivid nightmares. Is it difficult to get up in the morning to face another day of loneliness, regrets and even suicidal ideation. Perhaps your relationship suffers from conflict and lack of intimacy or you are going through a breakup. Are you a parent and teen who are locked in power struggles without solutions that result in endless frustration.
Do you experience times when you are controlled by intense emotions or are paralyzed by anxiety/fear, and at other times you feel detached and numb. Are you haunted by traumatic memories that overwhelm you or disturb your sleep with vivid nightmares. Is it difficult to get up in the morning to face another day of loneliness, regrets and even suicidal ideation. Perhaps your relationship suffers from conflict and lack of intimacy or you are going through a breakup. Are you a parent and teen who are locked in power struggles without solutions that result in endless frustration.
(907) 891-7986 View (907) 891-7986
Photo of Michael Aanavi, Psychologist in Anchorage, AK
Michael Aanavi
Psychologist, PhD, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99501
As both a psychologist and an acupuncturist, I offer an array of possibilities for people grappling with concerns of mind, body, and spirit: psychotherapy, acupuncture, intuitive and energy medicine, qigong and somatic therapies, meditation and other contemplative and imaginal practices. With an emphasis on the dynamics of trauma and intergenerational (generational) trauma, I work with people with emotional, physical, interpersonal, spiritual, and mind-body concerns of all kinds, drawing on Jungian, existential, and relational psychologies as well as on the Buddhist and contemplative psychology and practice.
As both a psychologist and an acupuncturist, I offer an array of possibilities for people grappling with concerns of mind, body, and spirit: psychotherapy, acupuncture, intuitive and energy medicine, qigong and somatic therapies, meditation and other contemplative and imaginal practices. With an emphasis on the dynamics of trauma and intergenerational (generational) trauma, I work with people with emotional, physical, interpersonal, spiritual, and mind-body concerns of all kinds, drawing on Jungian, existential, and relational psychologies as well as on the Buddhist and contemplative psychology and practice.
(833) 468-0721 View (833) 468-0721
Photo of Amanda Kookesh - White Wave Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Amanda Kookesh - White Wave Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , CDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99501
Managing life and all the emotions that come with it can be hard. Many people want to make sense of their life. Why do I react the way I do? Starting therapy is a great way to start unpacking answers to those life questions. I will provide you the safe and non-judgmental environment to begin to explore your thoughts, memories, and long-term goals. I can meet you where you are at in your life and together, we will begin your journey towards healing. I will be your biggest advocate in reaching your future goals. Together we will process your past and current life stressors to enable you to live your life in the present.
Managing life and all the emotions that come with it can be hard. Many people want to make sense of their life. Why do I react the way I do? Starting therapy is a great way to start unpacking answers to those life questions. I will provide you the safe and non-judgmental environment to begin to explore your thoughts, memories, and long-term goals. I can meet you where you are at in your life and together, we will begin your journey towards healing. I will be your biggest advocate in reaching your future goals. Together we will process your past and current life stressors to enable you to live your life in the present.
(907) 519-0353 View (907) 519-0353
Photo of Wisdom Traditions Counseling & Wellness, Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Wisdom Traditions Counseling & Wellness
Counselor, PhD, LPCS, CDCS, MAC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99518
The world grows more complex every day, changing how we live our lives, and it's bringing up a lot of stress and anxiety. We get it. The Wisdom Team provides highly respectful, confidential and individualized treatment choices for you or your family member. We also have counselors specifically dedicated for marriage and family issues. Our Addiction Recovery program is nationally accredited, and provides a warm, informal and rewarding experience for personal growth. We are in this together. Our vision is to positively impact our community; one person...one family at a time.
The world grows more complex every day, changing how we live our lives, and it's bringing up a lot of stress and anxiety. We get it. The Wisdom Team provides highly respectful, confidential and individualized treatment choices for you or your family member. We also have counselors specifically dedicated for marriage and family issues. Our Addiction Recovery program is nationally accredited, and provides a warm, informal and rewarding experience for personal growth. We are in this together. Our vision is to positively impact our community; one person...one family at a time.
(907) 770-3656 View (907) 770-3656
Photo of Amy L Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Amy L Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
People seek out therapy for a wide variety of reasons. Sometimes it's an overwhelming sense of loneliness or lack of direction. Often it's a result of major life changes, loss, psychological injuries, or specific issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, or grief. I offer a private, safe, and confidential environment for you to explore your concerns, find relief and to bring joy and passion back into your life. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey of self-discovery, healing and wellness!
People seek out therapy for a wide variety of reasons. Sometimes it's an overwhelming sense of loneliness or lack of direction. Often it's a result of major life changes, loss, psychological injuries, or specific issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, or grief. I offer a private, safe, and confidential environment for you to explore your concerns, find relief and to bring joy and passion back into your life. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey of self-discovery, healing and wellness!
(855) 914-2735 View (855) 914-2735
Photo of Mara Cramer, Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Mara Cramer
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99508
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, family relationships, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, and life transitions. My approach is eclectic, tailored to each individual, and uses strategies, techniques and tools that best fit the needs and preferences of each client.
As a therapist, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, family relationships, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, and life transitions. My approach is eclectic, tailored to each individual, and uses strategies, techniques and tools that best fit the needs and preferences of each client.
(907) 312-2729 View (907) 312-2729

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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.