Photo of Chelsea Allyn Moyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Chelsea Allyn Moyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I deeply believe in the healing process and an individual's innate capacity for transformation. With over a decade of experience working as a clinical therapist, I believe it's not about working harder but working smarter. Our goal is primarily to identify all of the blocks (namely old patterns, limiting beliefs, old habits, patterns of avoidance, etc.) that are interfering with your brain and body's natural tendency towards healing. This can show up as addictions, chronic pain, anxiety, or depression. Whatever you're working through, your system will guide us towards healing and, ultimately, equilibrium.
I deeply believe in the healing process and an individual's innate capacity for transformation. With over a decade of experience working as a clinical therapist, I believe it's not about working harder but working smarter. Our goal is primarily to identify all of the blocks (namely old patterns, limiting beliefs, old habits, patterns of avoidance, etc.) that are interfering with your brain and body's natural tendency towards healing. This can show up as addictions, chronic pain, anxiety, or depression. Whatever you're working through, your system will guide us towards healing and, ultimately, equilibrium.
(310) 634-1290 View (310) 634-1290
Photo of Casey Taslitz Birnbaum Certified Emdr Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Casey Taslitz Birnbaum Certified Emdr Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Hi, I am Casey! I would love to help you lead a more connected, meaningful and fulfilled life. I know looking for a therapist can be overwhelming and exhausting during a time where you may be feeling like you need additional support. While working with clients, I provide warmth and containment as they learn to heal from trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, phase of life issues or whatever may bring them into my office.
Hi, I am Casey! I would love to help you lead a more connected, meaningful and fulfilled life. I know looking for a therapist can be overwhelming and exhausting during a time where you may be feeling like you need additional support. While working with clients, I provide warmth and containment as they learn to heal from trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, phase of life issues or whatever may bring them into my office.
(424) 738-5368 View (424) 738-5368
Photo of Elaine Skoulas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Elaine Skoulas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
You've made it this far, but something is holding you back from the life you want to be living. You have learned a lot about yourself and relationships, yet you keep ending up stuck in the same patterns. Past trauma doesn’t have to continue to hurt your present life anymore. You might be someone who always puts others first, and now it's finally time to have a space just for you. You might be navigating a life with chronic pain, anxiety, or depression and need the support to get unstuck. Reaching out is a powerful first step to take care of yourself. I am committed to supporting you with warmth and kindness every step along the way.
You've made it this far, but something is holding you back from the life you want to be living. You have learned a lot about yourself and relationships, yet you keep ending up stuck in the same patterns. Past trauma doesn’t have to continue to hurt your present life anymore. You might be someone who always puts others first, and now it's finally time to have a space just for you. You might be navigating a life with chronic pain, anxiety, or depression and need the support to get unstuck. Reaching out is a powerful first step to take care of yourself. I am committed to supporting you with warmth and kindness every step along the way.
(818) 350-5204 View (818) 350-5204
Photo of Molly Garber Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Molly Garber Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90041
I combine Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), motivational interviewing, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), and Solution-Focused Therapy to target feelings of dread, abandonment, isolation, anxiety, chronic pain, and the many other symptoms that may come up for you on a daily basis.
“Regardless of how long ago something happened, and regardless of how long symptoms have been there, it doesn’t need to be permanent.” - Getting Past Your Past (Shapiro, 2012) Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, interpersonal issues or other daily symptoms that leave you feeling discontent, there is a solution. By utilizing a client-centered approach, I meet you where you are from session-to-session in order to provide an environment focused on comfort, trust, and understanding. I see healing as a sine wave, with ups-and-downs but always on an upward trajectory. Together we will walk through your healing.
I combine Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), motivational interviewing, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), and Solution-Focused Therapy to target feelings of dread, abandonment, isolation, anxiety, chronic pain, and the many other symptoms that may come up for you on a daily basis.
“Regardless of how long ago something happened, and regardless of how long symptoms have been there, it doesn’t need to be permanent.” - Getting Past Your Past (Shapiro, 2012) Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, interpersonal issues or other daily symptoms that leave you feeling discontent, there is a solution. By utilizing a client-centered approach, I meet you where you are from session-to-session in order to provide an environment focused on comfort, trust, and understanding. I see healing as a sine wave, with ups-and-downs but always on an upward trajectory. Together we will walk through your healing.
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Photo of Shanna Willner, Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Shanna Willner
Counselor, MA, PMP, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I work with anxiety, PTS/D, chronic pain, medical trauma, abuse, and illness including insomnia, migraine, and body system issues.
You can heal. I'm an ally and guide in the process. I work with pts/d and trauma, anxiety, chronic pain, and attachment interruption. My work integrates psychotherapy, bio-psychology, behavioral change, and holistic practice, and I use the lense of attachment theory to guide us. We will dismantle the barriers that block you from living your fullest life, however you define that, and we'll help you build new pathways to travel forward. Together, we use our relationship, your self-knowledge and life-knowledge, and my specialized training to move your life into something personally satisfying. I expect to open an office 6/24
I work with anxiety, PTS/D, chronic pain, medical trauma, abuse, and illness including insomnia, migraine, and body system issues.
You can heal. I'm an ally and guide in the process. I work with pts/d and trauma, anxiety, chronic pain, and attachment interruption. My work integrates psychotherapy, bio-psychology, behavioral change, and holistic practice, and I use the lense of attachment theory to guide us. We will dismantle the barriers that block you from living your fullest life, however you define that, and we'll help you build new pathways to travel forward. Together, we use our relationship, your self-knowledge and life-knowledge, and my specialized training to move your life into something personally satisfying. I expect to open an office 6/24
(424) 206-6738 View (424) 206-6738
Photo of Sipora B. Weissman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sipora B. Weissman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I get what it's like to live with- Chronic Pain & Illness, terrible Anxiety, and being Highly Sensitive that you feel everything! I help people with these issues along with complex trauma & sound sensitivities. Connecting the dots to understand how your childhood (upbringing, trauma, stressful events, family) may be contributing to your distress today can be extremely eye opening and transformative. In session I use many deeper brain therapies. Healing and becoming a secure capable human is the goal and completely attainable! I view therapy as a collaboration and as a Mind-Body Therapist I am an active participant and guide.
I get what it's like to live with- Chronic Pain & Illness, terrible Anxiety, and being Highly Sensitive that you feel everything! I help people with these issues along with complex trauma & sound sensitivities. Connecting the dots to understand how your childhood (upbringing, trauma, stressful events, family) may be contributing to your distress today can be extremely eye opening and transformative. In session I use many deeper brain therapies. Healing and becoming a secure capable human is the goal and completely attainable! I view therapy as a collaboration and as a Mind-Body Therapist I am an active participant and guide.
(805) 219-7241 View (805) 219-7241
Photo of David E Bresler, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
David E Bresler
Psychologist, PhD, LAC, DiplAc, NCCAOM, AAPM
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
My practice focuses on helping individuals, couples, and families who are suffering from emotional or physical pain or the aftereffects of trauma. We help them resolve the traumatic experience, as well as its consequences (e.g. physical pain, stress, disability, depression, anxiety, insomnia, medication dependence, isolation, etc.) Although many of our patients have not responded well to prior therapies, we've had outstanding success in helping them move from feeling a severe loss to finding a new and positive beginning. We love to work with people who are ready to change and eager to learn how to do it.
My practice focuses on helping individuals, couples, and families who are suffering from emotional or physical pain or the aftereffects of trauma. We help them resolve the traumatic experience, as well as its consequences (e.g. physical pain, stress, disability, depression, anxiety, insomnia, medication dependence, isolation, etc.) Although many of our patients have not responded well to prior therapies, we've had outstanding success in helping them move from feeling a severe loss to finding a new and positive beginning. We love to work with people who are ready to change and eager to learn how to do it.
(562) 250-5763 View (562) 250-5763
Photo of Jaclyn Simon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Jaclyn Simon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Are you having a rough time? I am here to support people going through life transitions, depression, anxiety, postpartum adjustment, chronic pain, attachment, trauma, health anxiety and people transitioning out of residential treatment centers.
Are you having a rough time? I am here to support people going through life transitions, depression, anxiety, postpartum adjustment, chronic pain, attachment, trauma, health anxiety and people transitioning out of residential treatment centers.
(818) 873-0275 View (818) 873-0275
Photo of Kimberly Gibson, Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Kimberly Gibson
Counselor, LPCC, ATR
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066
My specialities include: anxiety, mood disorders, thought disorders, ADHD, maternal mental health, chronic pain & illnesses.
Currently have daytime availability- Are you tired and stressed out from just how hard this past year has been? Do you find yourself getting hooked by negative thoughts? Or caught in an unhelpful pattern? Through a kind, creative and collaborative process, we can work together to challenge negative thoughts, make space for all feelings and identify behaviors or patterns that are keeping you stuck. We can work together to make positive changes. I enjoy working with middle schoolers, teens and adults and have over 20 years of clinical experience. I would be happy to help you or your loved one meet their goals.
My specialities include: anxiety, mood disorders, thought disorders, ADHD, maternal mental health, chronic pain & illnesses.
Currently have daytime availability- Are you tired and stressed out from just how hard this past year has been? Do you find yourself getting hooked by negative thoughts? Or caught in an unhelpful pattern? Through a kind, creative and collaborative process, we can work together to challenge negative thoughts, make space for all feelings and identify behaviors or patterns that are keeping you stuck. We can work together to make positive changes. I enjoy working with middle schoolers, teens and adults and have over 20 years of clinical experience. I would be happy to help you or your loved one meet their goals.
(424) 296-4927 View (424) 296-4927
Photo of Mercedes Elkoff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Mercedes Elkoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
In addition to my work in private practice, I am also trained in treating chronic, neuro plastic (psychogenic) pain and helping people to change their relationship to the fear and anxiety around pain using somatic reprocessing techniques.
I am a systemic thinker and a truly integrative therapist. I utilize the rich foundations of attachment theories, my psychodynamic training, and existential thought to conceptualize the various structures of the human experience. We live in a complicated world that often feels at odds with our capacity and longing for well-being and wholeness. Each person experiences this world from a specific intersection of identities and therefore it is so important to me to filter my understanding of clients through a systemic and culturally attuned lens.
In addition to my work in private practice, I am also trained in treating chronic, neuro plastic (psychogenic) pain and helping people to change their relationship to the fear and anxiety around pain using somatic reprocessing techniques.
I am a systemic thinker and a truly integrative therapist. I utilize the rich foundations of attachment theories, my psychodynamic training, and existential thought to conceptualize the various structures of the human experience. We live in a complicated world that often feels at odds with our capacity and longing for well-being and wholeness. Each person experiences this world from a specific intersection of identities and therefore it is so important to me to filter my understanding of clients through a systemic and culturally attuned lens.
(323) 274-1621 View (323) 274-1621
Photo of Bret Hofstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Bret Hofstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
When you're depressed, anxious or struggling in a difficult relationship being able to move through the world in a meaningful, authentic way can feel almost impossible. Different personas that we adopt for certain situations feel exhausting over time. Soul enrichment becomes the hero's call. I offer a safe environment to allow you to express yourself without judgment. I will help you with the emotional pain that many family members and friends are unable to do. Through empathy, understanding and genuine compassion for your struggle, I will work with you as you fulfill that need for a better, happier, more meaningful life.
When you're depressed, anxious or struggling in a difficult relationship being able to move through the world in a meaningful, authentic way can feel almost impossible. Different personas that we adopt for certain situations feel exhausting over time. Soul enrichment becomes the hero's call. I offer a safe environment to allow you to express yourself without judgment. I will help you with the emotional pain that many family members and friends are unable to do. Through empathy, understanding and genuine compassion for your struggle, I will work with you as you fulfill that need for a better, happier, more meaningful life.
(424) 570-3232 View (424) 570-3232
Photo of Pina Murcia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Pina Murcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RYT 200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90045
Healing is the capacity to navigate pain with gentle awareness.
What I know more than anything else is that you are the expert of yourself and you have access to an unlimited source of wisdom within you. I am here to hold the lantern as you explore and (re)discover the resources that live within. Are you constantly overthinking, overanalyzing, anxious, or worried? Are you having a difficult time managing the many challenges that have come over the last few years? Do you find yourself falling back into the same patterns repeatedly, even after resolving to change? Do you want to change aspects of your life, but feel stuck and unsure how to get there? You are in the right place.
Healing is the capacity to navigate pain with gentle awareness.
What I know more than anything else is that you are the expert of yourself and you have access to an unlimited source of wisdom within you. I am here to hold the lantern as you explore and (re)discover the resources that live within. Are you constantly overthinking, overanalyzing, anxious, or worried? Are you having a difficult time managing the many challenges that have come over the last few years? Do you find yourself falling back into the same patterns repeatedly, even after resolving to change? Do you want to change aspects of your life, but feel stuck and unsure how to get there? You are in the right place.
(310) 879-1159 View (310) 879-1159
Photo of Shea Lowery, Licensed Professional Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Shea Lowery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients with complex trauma and dissociative disorders, particularly those with multiple marginalized identities (BIPOC, LGBTQ+, chronic pain/disability) involved in harmful systems (foster care, carceral system, military, and hospitalizations). My approach to the work is that our systems and our world are fundamentally inequitable, and therapy is a way to help us survive in the face of many sources of adversity. With therapy, we learn about ourselves and our patterns and develop compassion for our suffering and ways to care for ourselves in all areas of our lives.
I specialize in working with clients with complex trauma and dissociative disorders, particularly those with multiple marginalized identities (BIPOC, LGBTQ+, chronic pain/disability) involved in harmful systems (foster care, carceral system, military, and hospitalizations). My approach to the work is that our systems and our world are fundamentally inequitable, and therapy is a way to help us survive in the face of many sources of adversity. With therapy, we learn about ourselves and our patterns and develop compassion for our suffering and ways to care for ourselves in all areas of our lives.
(213) 855-1789 View (213) 855-1789
Photo of Andrew Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Andrew Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024
As a licensed therapist, I specialize in working with relational trauma, substance abuse, eating disorders, sex addiction and psychosomatic illness.
What do you want? Do you know? If you know, are you able to attain it? Do you struggle with relationships or the ability to make your life as way you want it? Successful living means functioning well in love and work. Irritability, rigidity, anxiety, addiction, lethargy, depression, self-doubt, self-attack: these are all symptoms that sap us of our right to act with the freedom we wish and the ability to engage emotionally with others, our work and ourselves.
As a licensed therapist, I specialize in working with relational trauma, substance abuse, eating disorders, sex addiction and psychosomatic illness.
What do you want? Do you know? If you know, are you able to attain it? Do you struggle with relationships or the ability to make your life as way you want it? Successful living means functioning well in love and work. Irritability, rigidity, anxiety, addiction, lethargy, depression, self-doubt, self-attack: these are all symptoms that sap us of our right to act with the freedom we wish and the ability to engage emotionally with others, our work and ourselves.
(310) 982-6470 View (310) 982-6470
Photo of Hiromi Yamamura, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Hiromi Yamamura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90039  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in DBT, CBT, self-esteem, and life transitions such as going to college, relationship issues, illness and chronic pain, grief/loss, and retirement.
I believe that the number one human survival skill is adaptability to change. However, I know how challenging it may be to take those first steps, alone. I would like to assist in navigating your path to achieve your personal goals by focusing on the unique strengths you already possess while fostering flexibility and healthy boundaries. My approach is collaborative, eclectic, and person-centered, in which I tailor the therapy to fit your individual needs and goals. My experience includes working in substance use, neurology, VA, hospitals and non-profit/community mental health with individuals, couples, and groups.
I specialize in DBT, CBT, self-esteem, and life transitions such as going to college, relationship issues, illness and chronic pain, grief/loss, and retirement.
I believe that the number one human survival skill is adaptability to change. However, I know how challenging it may be to take those first steps, alone. I would like to assist in navigating your path to achieve your personal goals by focusing on the unique strengths you already possess while fostering flexibility and healthy boundaries. My approach is collaborative, eclectic, and person-centered, in which I tailor the therapy to fit your individual needs and goals. My experience includes working in substance use, neurology, VA, hospitals and non-profit/community mental health with individuals, couples, and groups.
(323) 310-4376 View (323) 310-4376
Photo of Alessandra Rizzotti, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Alessandra Rizzotti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Waitlist for new clients
Have you found yourself emotionally, mentally, or physically dysregulated after a crisis, trauma, or change? If you have found difficulty managing OCD, anxiety, depression, grief, BPD, or chronic illness, I can help using therapeutic tools customized to your recovery. Whether you are looking for short-term or long-term therapy to transform your narrative from helplessness to self-efficacy, I offer treatment plans utilizing culturally aware care, as well as evidence-based practices such as Exposure Response Prevention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and EMDR.
Have you found yourself emotionally, mentally, or physically dysregulated after a crisis, trauma, or change? If you have found difficulty managing OCD, anxiety, depression, grief, BPD, or chronic illness, I can help using therapeutic tools customized to your recovery. Whether you are looking for short-term or long-term therapy to transform your narrative from helplessness to self-efficacy, I offer treatment plans utilizing culturally aware care, as well as evidence-based practices such as Exposure Response Prevention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and EMDR.
(424) 321-6271 View (424) 321-6271
Photo of Elizabeth Vines, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Elizabeth Vines
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049  (Online Only)
I specialize in complex trauma, phobias/anxiety, and chronic illness for adults and teens. Many of my clients are recovering from developmental trauma, learning to soothe overactive nervous systems, and hoping to identify and express their needs in a new way. My work is depth oriented, empowering, feminist, compassion focused, and client-centered. I work well with artists and creative types, perfectionists, high achievers, those who identify as highly sensitive, and those who suffer from chronic illness.
I specialize in complex trauma, phobias/anxiety, and chronic illness for adults and teens. Many of my clients are recovering from developmental trauma, learning to soothe overactive nervous systems, and hoping to identify and express their needs in a new way. My work is depth oriented, empowering, feminist, compassion focused, and client-centered. I work well with artists and creative types, perfectionists, high achievers, those who identify as highly sensitive, and those who suffer from chronic illness.
(424) 622-8418 View (424) 622-8418
Photo of Frederick Stampler, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Frederick Stampler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
I have over 40 years of experience as a clinical psychologist helping people who suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, health concerns, relationship problems, and the stress of everyday life. I work with individuals, couples, and families. Whether you are an adolescent grappling with issues of identity and independence, a young adult struggling to establish yourself in work and relationships, or a mature adult coping with the turns of life, I will use my training and experience as a clinical psychologist to assist you in reaching your goals and developing a greater sense of mastery and well being.
I have over 40 years of experience as a clinical psychologist helping people who suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, health concerns, relationship problems, and the stress of everyday life. I work with individuals, couples, and families. Whether you are an adolescent grappling with issues of identity and independence, a young adult struggling to establish yourself in work and relationships, or a mature adult coping with the turns of life, I will use my training and experience as a clinical psychologist to assist you in reaching your goals and developing a greater sense of mastery and well being.
(310) 736-2739 View (310) 736-2739
Photo of Anna Stookey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Anna Stookey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010  (Online Only)
I work with couples & individuals, and also groups for women, therapists & those struggling with chronic illness seeking support and connection.
We are all seeking peace in one form or another: in our relationships, with ourselves, or in our life choices. Past experiences, trauma, grief & loss, and current conflict or illness can make it hard to feel who you really are and what you want. I am here to listen & reflect your truth, and to help you find and create a life that matters to you. Through empathic conversations, enlivening and reflective exercises, and mindful awareness of yourself and your body, we help you cultivate a felt sense of ease and safety that isn’t just intellectual, so you can live your most awake, consciously-chosen life and relationships.
I work with couples & individuals, and also groups for women, therapists & those struggling with chronic illness seeking support and connection.
We are all seeking peace in one form or another: in our relationships, with ourselves, or in our life choices. Past experiences, trauma, grief & loss, and current conflict or illness can make it hard to feel who you really are and what you want. I am here to listen & reflect your truth, and to help you find and create a life that matters to you. Through empathic conversations, enlivening and reflective exercises, and mindful awareness of yourself and your body, we help you cultivate a felt sense of ease and safety that isn’t just intellectual, so you can live your most awake, consciously-chosen life and relationships.
(323) 431-9717 View (323) 431-9717
Photo of Rob Goldblatt, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Rob Goldblatt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Dr. Rob Goldblatt has practiced in clinical psychology for over twenty years specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Treatment, Couples, Parenting, Stress, Panic, Anxiety, Fears of flying, elevators, Psychological Issues related to Illness and Injury, Tinnitus, Sexual and Desire Problems. His approach is characterized by his clear straightforward answers and distillation of complex issues, caring and warmth, informality, directness, pragmatism, and infectious humor. He has deep and broad experience with in treatment of people of all ages and is as great with small children as he is with people in the mid-life and people exploring the last third of their lives.
Dr. Rob Goldblatt has practiced in clinical psychology for over twenty years specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Treatment, Couples, Parenting, Stress, Panic, Anxiety, Fears of flying, elevators, Psychological Issues related to Illness and Injury, Tinnitus, Sexual and Desire Problems. His approach is characterized by his clear straightforward answers and distillation of complex issues, caring and warmth, informality, directness, pragmatism, and infectious humor. He has deep and broad experience with in treatment of people of all ages and is as great with small children as he is with people in the mid-life and people exploring the last third of their lives.
(310) 945-2761 View (310) 945-2761

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.