Chronic Pain Therapists in Alexander City, AL

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Online Therapists

Photo of Charles T. Rubio - Dr. Charles T. Rubio, PhD, PC, Psychologist
Dr. Charles T. Rubio
Psychologist, PhD, PC
Verified Verified
Opelika, AL 36801
Drawing from a range of modalities including stress and pain management, and mindfulness, his treatment approach integrates both cognitive-behavioral techniques and psychodynamic theory.
For more than 25 years Dr, Rubio has counseled adults, adolescents, couples, and families. Helping college students adjust to living away from home has been a particularly rewarding part of his practice. Dr. Rubio also collaborates with local attorneys to provide psychological services for alcohol and drug related offenses, and anger management issues.Since 1993, he has served as psychological consultant to Lyman Ward Military Academy, a military boarding school.
Drawing from a range of modalities including stress and pain management, and mindfulness, his treatment approach integrates both cognitive-behavioral techniques and psychodynamic theory.
For more than 25 years Dr, Rubio has counseled adults, adolescents, couples, and families. Helping college students adjust to living away from home has been a particularly rewarding part of his practice. Dr. Rubio also collaborates with local attorneys to provide psychological services for alcohol and drug related offenses, and anger management issues.Since 1993, he has served as psychological consultant to Lyman Ward Military Academy, a military boarding school.
(334) 267-7174 View (334) 267-7174
Photo of Pamela Quekemeyer, LPC-S, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Quekemeyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
These therapies can help treat emotional disturbances, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, pain, and substance abuse concerns.
Therapy is a journey into self-awareness. My private practice, Birmingham Therapy Services LLC, focuses on addressing presenting symptoms that can be a manifestation of our past and current experiences. Creating a safe environment is fundamental to therapeutic success. My role is to help the client identify what skills are needed in order for them to feel safe; this includes gathering an understanding of past and present experiences, resource building, coping skills development, psychoeducation, and discovering ones strengths. This approach is key in preparing a client's nervous system for the deep dive work.
These therapies can help treat emotional disturbances, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, pain, and substance abuse concerns.
Therapy is a journey into self-awareness. My private practice, Birmingham Therapy Services LLC, focuses on addressing presenting symptoms that can be a manifestation of our past and current experiences. Creating a safe environment is fundamental to therapeutic success. My role is to help the client identify what skills are needed in order for them to feel safe; this includes gathering an understanding of past and present experiences, resource building, coping skills development, psychoeducation, and discovering ones strengths. This approach is key in preparing a client's nervous system for the deep dive work.
(205) 928-8532 View (205) 928-8532
Photo of Patricia A Schiller, PhD, Psychologist
Patricia A Schiller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Eufaula, AL 36027
If you are looking for a mature and experienced the therapist who takes your concerns seriously, please keep reading. There is no problem that is utterly impossible. I treat the whole person who is sitting beside me, not just a label or a diagnosis. I know that most people simply want to find solutions to their problems and live the most satisfying lives possible. My therapy tends to be brief and solution focused. I am aware that most people seek therapy when they are in pain and that they want relief as quickly as possible. I am a long time resident of Eufaula and value my excellent reputation as a Confidentiality is key.
If you are looking for a mature and experienced the therapist who takes your concerns seriously, please keep reading. There is no problem that is utterly impossible. I treat the whole person who is sitting beside me, not just a label or a diagnosis. I know that most people simply want to find solutions to their problems and live the most satisfying lives possible. My therapy tends to be brief and solution focused. I am aware that most people seek therapy when they are in pain and that they want relief as quickly as possible. I am a long time resident of Eufaula and value my excellent reputation as a Confidentiality is key.
(334) 597-5840 View (334) 597-5840
Photo of Jared Montague, MA, ALC, NCC, Counselor
Jared Montague
Counselor, MA, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205
My experience in the mental health field is varied and includes victim outreach work, crisis intervention, serious mental illness, as well as individuals with developmental disabilities. My current focus is on anxiety, depression, and trauma, but I am passionate about providing mental health services to a variety of populations aged 19 and older. I have special interests in psychotherapy for chronic illnesses, humor in counseling, and providing support for other professionals in helping fields.
My experience in the mental health field is varied and includes victim outreach work, crisis intervention, serious mental illness, as well as individuals with developmental disabilities. My current focus is on anxiety, depression, and trauma, but I am passionate about providing mental health services to a variety of populations aged 19 and older. I have special interests in psychotherapy for chronic illnesses, humor in counseling, and providing support for other professionals in helping fields.
(205) 512-6624 View (205) 512-6624
Photo of Laura H Johnson, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura H Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
Are you in the middle of a challenging time? I help people navigate the transitions that often occur in life; including illness, divorce, and grief related to all types of loss. I enjoy helping people heal from life's most difficult events, such as sexual assault, childhood abuse, religious trauma, medical trauma, acts of violence and other similar incidents. You have inherent beauty and worth. I believe my role as a therapist is to assist and guide you as you move toward a healthier life.
Are you in the middle of a challenging time? I help people navigate the transitions that often occur in life; including illness, divorce, and grief related to all types of loss. I enjoy helping people heal from life's most difficult events, such as sexual assault, childhood abuse, religious trauma, medical trauma, acts of violence and other similar incidents. You have inherent beauty and worth. I believe my role as a therapist is to assist and guide you as you move toward a healthier life.
(205) 953-8581 View (205) 953-8581
Photo of Marilyn Lee Knight - Integrative Health Services, LLC
Integrative Health Services, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pelham, AL 35124
Treatment includes but is not limited to depression, health issues such as autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, anxiety, grief, LGBTQ issues, alternate lifestyles, ADHD, behavioral issues, at risk teens, addictions, as well as pre-marital, marriage, divorce and co-parenting.
SATURDAY OPENINGS AVAILABLE and ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Integrative Health Services, LLC focuses on treating the mind, body, and spirit. Everyone is not the same and therefore, treatment is tailored to fit the individual needs of each person. Overall health and well-being are strongly encouraged while receiving mental health treatment. This is why Integrative Health Services keeps a unique referral list of highly qualified primary care doctors, massage therapists, holistic doctors/herbalists, yoga therapy instructors, psychiatrists, rheumatologists, personal trainers and many others that promote overall health and well-being.
Treatment includes but is not limited to depression, health issues such as autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, anxiety, grief, LGBTQ issues, alternate lifestyles, ADHD, behavioral issues, at risk teens, addictions, as well as pre-marital, marriage, divorce and co-parenting.
SATURDAY OPENINGS AVAILABLE and ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Integrative Health Services, LLC focuses on treating the mind, body, and spirit. Everyone is not the same and therefore, treatment is tailored to fit the individual needs of each person. Overall health and well-being are strongly encouraged while receiving mental health treatment. This is why Integrative Health Services keeps a unique referral list of highly qualified primary care doctors, massage therapists, holistic doctors/herbalists, yoga therapy instructors, psychiatrists, rheumatologists, personal trainers and many others that promote overall health and well-being.
(833) 567-3538 View (833) 567-3538
Photo of Marilyn Michelle Knight - Integrative Health Services, LLC Michelle Knight, MSW, LICSW, PIP, CREP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Integrative Health Services, LLC Michelle Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP, CREP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Pelham, AL 35124
I counsel on many sensitive and intimate topics. Are you struggling with marital issues, have an at-risk teen, grief, gambling, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, or a chronic illness? Is a relationship or career choice no longer serving you in a positive way? My office is a nurturing place that welcomes openness and individuality. I'm an outside the box thinker, a supporter of the LGBTQ plus community, someone who has a personal investment in your success, and can be the confidential sounding board that is difficult to find.
I counsel on many sensitive and intimate topics. Are you struggling with marital issues, have an at-risk teen, grief, gambling, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, or a chronic illness? Is a relationship or career choice no longer serving you in a positive way? My office is a nurturing place that welcomes openness and individuality. I'm an outside the box thinker, a supporter of the LGBTQ plus community, someone who has a personal investment in your success, and can be the confidential sounding board that is difficult to find.
(205) 523-8502 View (205) 523-8502
Photo of Clinton W Smith - HypnosisByDoctors.com, PsyD, CI, CH
HypnosisByDoctors.com
PsyD, CI, CH
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36117  (Online Only)
Dr. Clinton Smith, Psy.D has effectively used clinical hypnosis for Weight Loss, Anxiety, Poor Sleep, Depression, and Smoking online since 2007. Register for a Free Screening in the comfort of home. We will PROVE you can be hypnotized before accepting you as a client. Dr. Smith has combined psychological tools & hypnotherapy since 1992. See M.D. endorsements and video of Dr. Oz relating facts about Medical Hypnosis on our website: HypnosisByDoctors.com/Register Did you know the AMA endorsed clinical hypnosis for pain control in 1958? See our Successful Clients: HypnosisByDoctors.com/Testimonials
Dr. Clinton Smith, Psy.D has effectively used clinical hypnosis for Weight Loss, Anxiety, Poor Sleep, Depression, and Smoking online since 2007. Register for a Free Screening in the comfort of home. We will PROVE you can be hypnotized before accepting you as a client. Dr. Smith has combined psychological tools & hypnotherapy since 1992. See M.D. endorsements and video of Dr. Oz relating facts about Medical Hypnosis on our website: HypnosisByDoctors.com/Register Did you know the AMA endorsed clinical hypnosis for pain control in 1958? See our Successful Clients: HypnosisByDoctors.com/Testimonials
(334) 377-4183 View (334) 377-4183
Photo of Heather Leigh Larson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Leigh Larson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
As a Counselor and Certified Yoga Instructor, I assist clients in addressing anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, and stress, while occasionally assimilating yoga concepts into counseling with incredible results in those seeking to more effectively manage these issues.
Insight, motivation, purpose. These three words describe how I can help. Are you looking to gain insight into your struggles? Motivation to grow and get better as a person? Looking for someone to come along side you in your journey to find purpose in life? We can work together as your story unfolds, taking your past and present experiences to make a plan for a healthy, fulfilling, more purposeful future. We can work together to identify and practice techniques and skills that will benefit you and help you to thrive in your relationships and in life.
As a Counselor and Certified Yoga Instructor, I assist clients in addressing anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, and stress, while occasionally assimilating yoga concepts into counseling with incredible results in those seeking to more effectively manage these issues.
Insight, motivation, purpose. These three words describe how I can help. Are you looking to gain insight into your struggles? Motivation to grow and get better as a person? Looking for someone to come along side you in your journey to find purpose in life? We can work together as your story unfolds, taking your past and present experiences to make a plan for a healthy, fulfilling, more purposeful future. We can work together to identify and practice techniques and skills that will benefit you and help you to thrive in your relationships and in life.
(205) 767-7461 View (205) 767-7461
Photo of Scott McCormick, LMSW, CTP, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scott McCormick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phenix City, AL 36870  (Online Only)
So often, our symptoms cause us to resent ourselves or resent the parts of ourselves that are causing pain.
I am here to help with trauma! Do you struggle with feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt, emotional control, connection with others, or chronic relationship issues? These may be signs of complex PTSD, and EMDR could help. I specialize in trauma-focused therapy for adults with histories of anxiety, relationship issues, and depression. I also have experience working with dissociative symptoms, anger, and self-esteem issues.
So often, our symptoms cause us to resent ourselves or resent the parts of ourselves that are causing pain.
I am here to help with trauma! Do you struggle with feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt, emotional control, connection with others, or chronic relationship issues? These may be signs of complex PTSD, and EMDR could help. I specialize in trauma-focused therapy for adults with histories of anxiety, relationship issues, and depression. I also have experience working with dissociative symptoms, anger, and self-esteem issues.
(833) 432-5285 x15 View (833) 432-5285 x15
Photo of Elizabeth Mullins, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Mullins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
I enjoy working with clients in the areas of trauma, PTSD, addictions, life transitions, mindfulness practices, chronic pain, and existential issues.
I believe in an empowerment approach to therapy. I value the relationship between my clients and myself, and feel so fortunate that I have the opportunity to be a part of people's lives in such an intimate way. I am here to walk beside you on your journey. To hold the lantern. To help you find the path that has been there all along.
I enjoy working with clients in the areas of trauma, PTSD, addictions, life transitions, mindfulness practices, chronic pain, and existential issues.
I believe in an empowerment approach to therapy. I value the relationship between my clients and myself, and feel so fortunate that I have the opportunity to be a part of people's lives in such an intimate way. I am here to walk beside you on your journey. To hold the lantern. To help you find the path that has been there all along.
(205) 512-8651 View (205) 512-8651
Photo of Shannon S Crenshaw, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon S Crenshaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
(205) 583-0367 View (205) 583-0367
Photo of Pamela Hayes, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35213  (Online Only)
Sometimes we get stuck. We may find ourselves repeating familiar patterns that, while fiercely self-protective, no longer serve us in the present moment. We may not be able to find our sense of safety and connection which can leave us feeling hopeless for a brighter future. I want to reassure you that despite what might feel like relentless suffering, there is always hope for healing. Together, we can explore ways to reconnect with the body’s innate wisdom, fostering a sense of safety regardless of past experiences. I specialize in C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and chronic pain.
Sometimes we get stuck. We may find ourselves repeating familiar patterns that, while fiercely self-protective, no longer serve us in the present moment. We may not be able to find our sense of safety and connection which can leave us feeling hopeless for a brighter future. I want to reassure you that despite what might feel like relentless suffering, there is always hope for healing. Together, we can explore ways to reconnect with the body’s innate wisdom, fostering a sense of safety regardless of past experiences. I specialize in C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and chronic pain.
(659) 234-2158 View (659) 234-2158
Photo of Kathryn Strickland Abs Sex Therapist, MEd, LPC, ABS, Counselor
Kathryn Strickland Abs Sex Therapist
Counselor, MEd, LPC, ABS
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
I specialize in sexual health issues including but not limited to: Pelvic pain, erectile dysfunction, sexual addiction, compulsive sexual behavior, conflict between sexual health and spirituality, sexual shame, sexual identity, and anxiety.
Are you and your relationship struggling due to sexual issues. These sensitive subjects can be difficult to talk about and even harder to find the right therapist for. I specialize in helping individuals through sexual issues of all kinds, including but not limited to: ED, Desire discrepancy, pelvic pain, sexual aversion, sexual trauma, low libido, out of control sexual behavior, negative impacts of pornography and technology, medical sexual dysfunction, and more. Don't let sexual problems stop you from having the life and relationships you desire.
I specialize in sexual health issues including but not limited to: Pelvic pain, erectile dysfunction, sexual addiction, compulsive sexual behavior, conflict between sexual health and spirituality, sexual shame, sexual identity, and anxiety.
Are you and your relationship struggling due to sexual issues. These sensitive subjects can be difficult to talk about and even harder to find the right therapist for. I specialize in helping individuals through sexual issues of all kinds, including but not limited to: ED, Desire discrepancy, pelvic pain, sexual aversion, sexual trauma, low libido, out of control sexual behavior, negative impacts of pornography and technology, medical sexual dysfunction, and more. Don't let sexual problems stop you from having the life and relationships you desire.
(205) 619-1526 View (205) 619-1526
Photo of Judith Wilson, MEd, LPC, SC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Judith Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, SC
Verified Verified
McCalla, AL 35111
Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: anxiety and/or depression, pre-marital/marital issues, chronic pain/ illness, chemical dependency, family issues, dealing with trauma/abuse from the past, and grief and loss.
NOW ACCEPTING BLUE CROSS/BLUE SHIELD AND UNITED HEALTHCARE I have over 30 years experience in the Mental Health field, having worked in a variety of settings. I have certification in Trauma Counseling. I work with all ages, regardless of sex, race, lifestyle choice, or economic status. If you are having challenges because of anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, or family issues, I can provide you with assistance. I am also a Certified Transformation Life Coach - helping people transform their lives and realize their dreams.
Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: anxiety and/or depression, pre-marital/marital issues, chronic pain/ illness, chemical dependency, family issues, dealing with trauma/abuse from the past, and grief and loss.
NOW ACCEPTING BLUE CROSS/BLUE SHIELD AND UNITED HEALTHCARE I have over 30 years experience in the Mental Health field, having worked in a variety of settings. I have certification in Trauma Counseling. I work with all ages, regardless of sex, race, lifestyle choice, or economic status. If you are having challenges because of anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, or family issues, I can provide you with assistance. I am also a Certified Transformation Life Coach - helping people transform their lives and realize their dreams.
(844) 294-8195 View (844) 294-8195
Photo of Misty Smith - Misty Smith, PhD, LPC-S Certified Sex Therapist, PhD, LPC-S, CST, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Misty Smith, PhD, LPC-S Certified Sex Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
Sexual issues with you and/or your partner including sexual dysfunctions such as low libido/sexual desire discrepancy, sexual pain, ED (men), etc. can be overwhelming & difficult to navigate or even discuss. I provide a safe, judgement-free environment to process & address these struggles as well as sexual identity & alternative lifestyle issues/struggles. Also treating: Relationship/Marital/Pre-Marital, Sexual Addiction & Anxiety/Depression related to Sexual Issues.
Sexual issues with you and/or your partner including sexual dysfunctions such as low libido/sexual desire discrepancy, sexual pain, ED (men), etc. can be overwhelming & difficult to navigate or even discuss. I provide a safe, judgement-free environment to process & address these struggles as well as sexual identity & alternative lifestyle issues/struggles. Also treating: Relationship/Marital/Pre-Marital, Sexual Addiction & Anxiety/Depression related to Sexual Issues.
(205) 377-5820 x700 View (205) 377-5820 x700
Photo of Julie Hill - Spoonie Strong Counseling and Career Services, PhD, LPC, BC-TMH, NCC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Spoonie Strong Counseling and Career Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, BC-TMH, NCC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals with disabilities and chronic illness, helping with coping skills and the process of adjusting to life with chronic illness, as well as improving quality of life. In addition to mental health counseling, I offer career counseling services at a private pay rate of $150/session. As a person who lives with multiple chronic illnesses herself, I understand the toll, both physical and mental, that living with chronic illness and disability can take on a person.
I specialize in working with individuals with disabilities and chronic illness, helping with coping skills and the process of adjusting to life with chronic illness, as well as improving quality of life. In addition to mental health counseling, I offer career counseling services at a private pay rate of $150/session. As a person who lives with multiple chronic illnesses herself, I understand the toll, both physical and mental, that living with chronic illness and disability can take on a person.
(334) 641-5092 View (334) 641-5092
Photo of Alena Porter, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alena Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Auburn, AL 36830  (Online Only)
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence. Ideally, sex makes us feel happy, loved, and connected. Yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you avoided talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Have you ever had a sexual encounter that was other than consentual but you didn't know who to talk to or even what to say about it? If so, I can help you work through your thoughts and feelings about sex and sexual experiences
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence. Ideally, sex makes us feel happy, loved, and connected. Yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you avoided talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Have you ever had a sexual encounter that was other than consentual but you didn't know who to talk to or even what to say about it? If so, I can help you work through your thoughts and feelings about sex and sexual experiences
(256) 300-6088 View (256) 300-6088
Photo of Kwajalin Brown - Compass Rose Behavioral Health, DSW, MSW, LICSW-S, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Compass Rose Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, LICSW-S, PIP
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405  (Online Only)
Known for mywork with those coping with addictions, anxiety, childhood trauma, chronic illness, depression, grief and loss, parenting difficulties (including parenting a neuro-atypical or neuro-diverse child), relationship issues.
Compass Rose Behavioral Health was established to guide and support your unique life journey by helping you discover yourself, and your purpose as your life changes directions. I believe orthodox approaches to traditional mental health are cookie cutter and go for a more individualized approach. I am committed to customizing your experience, educating you, being honest and practical. All we ask is that you trust the process. In return you will learn how to: build your resilience and develop strategies to effectively manage and/or overcome obstacles.
Known for mywork with those coping with addictions, anxiety, childhood trauma, chronic illness, depression, grief and loss, parenting difficulties (including parenting a neuro-atypical or neuro-diverse child), relationship issues.
Compass Rose Behavioral Health was established to guide and support your unique life journey by helping you discover yourself, and your purpose as your life changes directions. I believe orthodox approaches to traditional mental health are cookie cutter and go for a more individualized approach. I am committed to customizing your experience, educating you, being honest and practical. All we ask is that you trust the process. In return you will learn how to: build your resilience and develop strategies to effectively manage and/or overcome obstacles.
(205) 751-2970 View (205) 751-2970
Photo of Kelly Lansden, ALC, NCC, Counselor
Kelly Lansden
Counselor, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35244
Are you tired of letting chronic illness or pain control your life? With a master's degree in counseling and a deep understanding of the mind-body connection, I offer a holistic approach that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of living with chronic conditions. My goal is to provide you with the tools and support you need to not just cope, but to thrive despite the challenges you face.
Are you tired of letting chronic illness or pain control your life? With a master's degree in counseling and a deep understanding of the mind-body connection, I offer a holistic approach that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of living with chronic conditions. My goal is to provide you with the tools and support you need to not just cope, but to thrive despite the challenges you face.
(205) 997-3294 View (205) 997-3294

See more therapy options for Alexander City

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.