Photo of John Beahan, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
John Beahan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, addiction and health-related issues like chronic disease management and chronic pain management.
I am licensed Clinical Psychologist who is trained using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Seeking Safety and Motivational Interviewing. It is my intention in therapy to develop a collaborative atmosphere to develop a treatment approach that fits the needs of the individual to improve quality of life.
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, addiction and health-related issues like chronic disease management and chronic pain management.
I am licensed Clinical Psychologist who is trained using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Seeking Safety and Motivational Interviewing. It is my intention in therapy to develop a collaborative atmosphere to develop a treatment approach that fits the needs of the individual to improve quality of life.
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Photo of Reuben P. Wolff, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Reuben P. Wolff
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
I have extensive expertise in hypnosis and mindfulness to support the psychotherapy process and to help you if you are dealing with emotions, habits, chronic pain, illness or surgery.
Are you ready to reach your potential? Are you tired of being caught in repeating patterns? Are you facing new challenges? Would you benefit from support and insights? You have shown clear motivation to create a clearer path for yourself because searching for the right collaborative therapist is a courageous act that can help you to achieve greater harmony as you move into your future. Perhaps you are experiencing anxiety or depression, are in life transition, are spiritually stuck, or are curious about what is next for you. I invite you to explore how I can assist you in a safe and accepting environment.
I have extensive expertise in hypnosis and mindfulness to support the psychotherapy process and to help you if you are dealing with emotions, habits, chronic pain, illness or surgery.
Are you ready to reach your potential? Are you tired of being caught in repeating patterns? Are you facing new challenges? Would you benefit from support and insights? You have shown clear motivation to create a clearer path for yourself because searching for the right collaborative therapist is a courageous act that can help you to achieve greater harmony as you move into your future. Perhaps you are experiencing anxiety or depression, are in life transition, are spiritually stuck, or are curious about what is next for you. I invite you to explore how I can assist you in a safe and accepting environment.
(415) 799-4147 View (415) 799-4147
Photo of Judith Anna Nitchie, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Judith Anna Nitchie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CMT, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
Interactive and educational workshops address stress and emotions relative to chronic illness and loss for self-help groups and professional organizations; education and training for counselors and therapists who work with clients with chronic illness.
Life with a chronic illness presents unique challenges. Not only do you have your new (and changing) physical reality, but anxiety, depression and overwhelm can show up unannounced. I've been there! The great news is that, with help, we can transform our state of mind and start loving life again. WE can get YOU back on the road to loving your life--let's get to it!
Interactive and educational workshops address stress and emotions relative to chronic illness and loss for self-help groups and professional organizations; education and training for counselors and therapists who work with clients with chronic illness.
Life with a chronic illness presents unique challenges. Not only do you have your new (and changing) physical reality, but anxiety, depression and overwhelm can show up unannounced. I've been there! The great news is that, with help, we can transform our state of mind and start loving life again. WE can get YOU back on the road to loving your life--let's get to it!
(415) 799-9266 View (415) 799-9266
Photo of Lusa Hung, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Lusa Hung
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
Turning pain and loss into wisdom, guilt into gratitude, and shifting from avoidance to awareness are ways that can be helpful.
I practice exclusively with online clients residing in WA, CA & NY. I am out of network for all insurance panels. Psychology has always been a passion of mine in some shape or form. I have 14 yrs of clinical experience working with culturally diverse populations in international and domestic settings. My approach is mindfulness-based with a blend of CBT, person-centered therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I have expertise treating a wide range of psychological issues spanning the spectrum of depression, trauma/anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life adjustments, serving people across the lifespan and in different settings.
Turning pain and loss into wisdom, guilt into gratitude, and shifting from avoidance to awareness are ways that can be helpful.
I practice exclusively with online clients residing in WA, CA & NY. I am out of network for all insurance panels. Psychology has always been a passion of mine in some shape or form. I have 14 yrs of clinical experience working with culturally diverse populations in international and domestic settings. My approach is mindfulness-based with a blend of CBT, person-centered therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I have expertise treating a wide range of psychological issues spanning the spectrum of depression, trauma/anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life adjustments, serving people across the lifespan and in different settings.
(415) 825-3514 View (415) 825-3514
Photo of Denise Stilwell, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Denise Stilwell
Psychologist, RN, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Dr. Denise Stilwell is a licensed clinical psychologist with seven years of experience providing psychotherapy in a variety of clinical settings. She worked as a nurse for sixteen years before she became a psychotherapist and brings that rich experience into her practice. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, identity issues, interpersonal issues, grief, managing chronic illness, and somatic symptom disorder. Dr. Stilwell collaborates with her clients to ensure they feel seen and heard in their sessions while utilizing evidence-based therapy approaches that are culturally sensitive and individually focused.
Dr. Denise Stilwell is a licensed clinical psychologist with seven years of experience providing psychotherapy in a variety of clinical settings. She worked as a nurse for sixteen years before she became a psychotherapist and brings that rich experience into her practice. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, identity issues, interpersonal issues, grief, managing chronic illness, and somatic symptom disorder. Dr. Stilwell collaborates with her clients to ensure they feel seen and heard in their sessions while utilizing evidence-based therapy approaches that are culturally sensitive and individually focused.
(415) 306-8574 View (415) 306-8574
Photo of Matthew Moreno, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Matthew Moreno
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
This can create an unhealthy, repeating pattern causes conflict to cause a lot of pain.
In addition to working extensively with anxiety issues, I specialize in helping clients improve their relationships with their partners/spouses. I wholeheartedly welcome both straight and LGBT clients into my practice. I often tell clients that everything makes perfect sense (ie. the problems they share and how they react), and all we need to do is find the right pieces of the puzzle to help them understand. It is from this understanding that relief and solutions arise. By truly understanding what anxiety is and isn't, we learn how to navigate it so it doesn't control our lives.
This can create an unhealthy, repeating pattern causes conflict to cause a lot of pain.
In addition to working extensively with anxiety issues, I specialize in helping clients improve their relationships with their partners/spouses. I wholeheartedly welcome both straight and LGBT clients into my practice. I often tell clients that everything makes perfect sense (ie. the problems they share and how they react), and all we need to do is find the right pieces of the puzzle to help them understand. It is from this understanding that relief and solutions arise. By truly understanding what anxiety is and isn't, we learn how to navigate it so it doesn't control our lives.
(415) 675-1848 View (415) 675-1848
Photo of Leslie R Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Leslie R Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
(415) 366-0587 View (415) 366-0587
Photo of Hilary Rosenberg, Registered Psychological Assistant in San Francisco, CA
Hilary Rosenberg
Registered Psychological Assistant, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
My adult and couples clients seek me out for many reasons. Some want to make changes in their lives. Others feel weighed down by difficult emotions, relationships, or past experiences. Some just want to better understand themselves and how to find meaning. My work is a collaborative process, rooted in theory and research, that creates meaningful, lasting change. I've helped clients with professional stress, challenging relationships, mood difficulties (anxiety, depression), challenges adjusting to new life stages/change, medical illness, substance use, a desire to build mindfulness skills, or simply feeling “stuck” and uncreative.
My adult and couples clients seek me out for many reasons. Some want to make changes in their lives. Others feel weighed down by difficult emotions, relationships, or past experiences. Some just want to better understand themselves and how to find meaning. My work is a collaborative process, rooted in theory and research, that creates meaningful, lasting change. I've helped clients with professional stress, challenging relationships, mood difficulties (anxiety, depression), challenges adjusting to new life stages/change, medical illness, substance use, a desire to build mindfulness skills, or simply feeling “stuck” and uncreative.
(415) 612-6424 View (415) 612-6424
Photo of Anya V Kogan, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Anya V Kogan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
I help my clients address issues of anxiety, stress, depression, adjustment to life transitions and illness, as well as relationship difficulties.
Life is hard, and we often find ourselves unable to break away from unhelpful patterns of thinking, behaving, and relating to ourselves, others, and to the world. These repetitive patterns keep us stuck and prevent us from living a rich and meaningful life. I can help you get "unstuck" from unhelpful patterns, alleviate emotional suffering, clarify goals and values, and remove obstacles to living a more satisfying and meaningful life.
I help my clients address issues of anxiety, stress, depression, adjustment to life transitions and illness, as well as relationship difficulties.
Life is hard, and we often find ourselves unable to break away from unhelpful patterns of thinking, behaving, and relating to ourselves, others, and to the world. These repetitive patterns keep us stuck and prevent us from living a rich and meaningful life. I can help you get "unstuck" from unhelpful patterns, alleviate emotional suffering, clarify goals and values, and remove obstacles to living a more satisfying and meaningful life.
(415) 969-6014 View (415) 969-6014
Photo of Leah R Finn, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Leah R Finn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
I've successfully treated many people who have experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness/ pain and other issues.
As your therapist, I create an environment for you to feel safe to explore fears, challenges and your deepest desires. I'm here to empower you! I'll offer a variety of techniques and collaborate with you in developing goals to co-create a therapeutic experience, facilitating healing and personal growth. I use an anti-oppression, disability justice framework and consider how ethnicity, class, gender, age, ability and sexuality intersect. My background as a community organizer for social justice informs my practice. I will tailor our work together to address your unique and specific needs and preferences.
I've successfully treated many people who have experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness/ pain and other issues.
As your therapist, I create an environment for you to feel safe to explore fears, challenges and your deepest desires. I'm here to empower you! I'll offer a variety of techniques and collaborate with you in developing goals to co-create a therapeutic experience, facilitating healing and personal growth. I use an anti-oppression, disability justice framework and consider how ethnicity, class, gender, age, ability and sexuality intersect. My background as a community organizer for social justice informs my practice. I will tailor our work together to address your unique and specific needs and preferences.
(510) 560-7164 View (510) 560-7164
Photo of Dietmar Brinkmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Dietmar Brinkmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
Are you overwhelmed by emotional turmoil? Is a relationship causing you pain? Do you feel stuck in anxiety or depression? As an expert in emotional resilience and relational wellbeing, I help you get in touch with what you deeply want and uncover internal resources that have been buried. I assist you in developing communication skills to navigate the complexities of friendship, family and work. From this place of strength, we create together a safe space in therapy to experience and express the full range of human emotions so that even the most difficult experiences and traumatic events can be processed.
Are you overwhelmed by emotional turmoil? Is a relationship causing you pain? Do you feel stuck in anxiety or depression? As an expert in emotional resilience and relational wellbeing, I help you get in touch with what you deeply want and uncover internal resources that have been buried. I assist you in developing communication skills to navigate the complexities of friendship, family and work. From this place of strength, we create together a safe space in therapy to experience and express the full range of human emotions so that even the most difficult experiences and traumatic events can be processed.
(415) 639-9029 View (415) 639-9029
Photo of Grechell Siy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Grechell Siy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
My name is Grechell Siy, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California via telehealth. I primarily focused on working with individual adults struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, other relational trauma, grief, and chronic pain using a client-centered approach. I love working with individual adults who are ready to enrich their relationship with themselves due to the impact of relational or childhood trauma.
My name is Grechell Siy, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California via telehealth. I primarily focused on working with individual adults struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, other relational trauma, grief, and chronic pain using a client-centered approach. I love working with individual adults who are ready to enrich their relationship with themselves due to the impact of relational or childhood trauma.
(805) 749-2095 View (805) 749-2095
Photo of Rebecca A. Ward, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Rebecca A. Ward
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT, SEP, PCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
Regardless of your suffering, there is a way through it and because we each have our own way of processing emotional wounds, I take an individualized approach to help you transform pain into healing. I specialize in addressing trauma and grief. This includes the loss of a loved one, traumatic loss (event-related, developmental), as well as psychological symptoms associated with chronic and terminal illness. Through an integrated approach, my work is about healing the soul and finding light in the darkness despite facing life-threatening conditions afflicting the body, mind, heart, and spirit.
Regardless of your suffering, there is a way through it and because we each have our own way of processing emotional wounds, I take an individualized approach to help you transform pain into healing. I specialize in addressing trauma and grief. This includes the loss of a loved one, traumatic loss (event-related, developmental), as well as psychological symptoms associated with chronic and terminal illness. Through an integrated approach, my work is about healing the soul and finding light in the darkness despite facing life-threatening conditions afflicting the body, mind, heart, and spirit.
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Photo of Integrative Mind-Body Solutions, LLC in San Francisco, CA
Integrative Mind-Body Solutions, LLC
CHT, RMT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94140  (Online Only)
Suggestions; statements pertaining to the success of the client's goal, tap into the brain mechanisms involved in attention, motor control, pain perception, beliefs and volition.
Helping to uncover the root cause of distress by addressing painful mental states such as avoidance, isolation, people-pleasing, low self-esteem, confusion, worry, stress, and anxiety while working together to come up with a customized plan to manage the situation to feel more in control and live a happier more fulfilling life. Our approach is direct, positive & uplifting using a customized therapeutic approach in a supportive and accepting manner. We believe that through education along with a focused therapeutic approach yields the most successful results and I am there every step of the way.
Suggestions; statements pertaining to the success of the client's goal, tap into the brain mechanisms involved in attention, motor control, pain perception, beliefs and volition.
Helping to uncover the root cause of distress by addressing painful mental states such as avoidance, isolation, people-pleasing, low self-esteem, confusion, worry, stress, and anxiety while working together to come up with a customized plan to manage the situation to feel more in control and live a happier more fulfilling life. Our approach is direct, positive & uplifting using a customized therapeutic approach in a supportive and accepting manner. We believe that through education along with a focused therapeutic approach yields the most successful results and I am there every step of the way.
(415) 787-4912 View (415) 787-4912
Photo of Allycia Souza, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Allycia Souza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94101
My counseling style is compassionate, reflective, and rooted in radical self acceptance. My focus is on helping you accept the parts of yourself that are hard to tolerate and be at peace with. I have been a psychotherapist for 13 years and I am licensed in the state of California. I have worked with people from various backgrounds that grapple with differing issues, such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain/illness, childhood abuse and trauma, relationship issues, parenting problems, grief, domestic violence and life transitions.
My counseling style is compassionate, reflective, and rooted in radical self acceptance. My focus is on helping you accept the parts of yourself that are hard to tolerate and be at peace with. I have been a psychotherapist for 13 years and I am licensed in the state of California. I have worked with people from various backgrounds that grapple with differing issues, such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain/illness, childhood abuse and trauma, relationship issues, parenting problems, grief, domestic violence and life transitions.
(510) 674-1117 View (510) 674-1117
Photo of Shannon Knorr, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Francisco, CA
Shannon Knorr
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
I enjoy in working with; self esteem & worth, trauma healing & recovery, body image & body positivity, disordered eating & relationship to body, belonging as our birthright, transforming deep shame into liberation, body & sex shame, relationships and boundaries, anxiety, stress & hyper-vigilance, nervous system imbalances, life transitions & identity, honoring grief, loss & death, life threatening illness, cancer, auto-immune disease, rites of passage, aging, adolescence, menopause, women's empowerment, highly sensitive people & empaths, people pleasers, intergenerational trauma & ancestral healing, mothering & the mother wound.
I enjoy in working with; self esteem & worth, trauma healing & recovery, body image & body positivity, disordered eating & relationship to body, belonging as our birthright, transforming deep shame into liberation, body & sex shame, relationships and boundaries, anxiety, stress & hyper-vigilance, nervous system imbalances, life transitions & identity, honoring grief, loss & death, life threatening illness, cancer, auto-immune disease, rites of passage, aging, adolescence, menopause, women's empowerment, highly sensitive people & empaths, people pleasers, intergenerational trauma & ancestral healing, mothering & the mother wound.
(510) 983-4457 View (510) 983-4457
Photo of Susanne Mattsson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Susanne Mattsson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101
I believe we all have the ability to change and grow. I work with Individuals and Couples who want to improve their lives. Trauma can keep us stuck in dysregulated emotional states. Isolation can make change difficult. Life transitions can be hard to navigate. Communication with loved ones can be challenging during conflicts. Abandonment and other relationship injuries are best healed in a relationship with a safe and secure person. As you contemplate creating change, you may find yourself in need of help and support. If you find yourself stuck and in emotional pain, collaboration with a therapist can begin your journey to healing.
I believe we all have the ability to change and grow. I work with Individuals and Couples who want to improve their lives. Trauma can keep us stuck in dysregulated emotional states. Isolation can make change difficult. Life transitions can be hard to navigate. Communication with loved ones can be challenging during conflicts. Abandonment and other relationship injuries are best healed in a relationship with a safe and secure person. As you contemplate creating change, you may find yourself in need of help and support. If you find yourself stuck and in emotional pain, collaboration with a therapist can begin your journey to healing.
(707) 730-4798 View (707) 730-4798
Photo of Sarah Dihmes, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Sarah Dihmes
Psychologist, PhD, BCB
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
Dr. Dihmes is a licensed clinical psychologist one of the few board certified biofeedback psychologists in Northern California. With specialties in life stressors, executive coaching, psychophysiology, and teens, she has expertise in working with various psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions and chronic illness. Dr. Dihmes' integrates evidence-based treatments such as CBT and mindfulness-based interventions, with consideration for each patient’s unique cultural, biological, and psychological background. Dr. Dihmes is now accepting new clients in California and New York!
Dr. Dihmes is a licensed clinical psychologist one of the few board certified biofeedback psychologists in Northern California. With specialties in life stressors, executive coaching, psychophysiology, and teens, she has expertise in working with various psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions and chronic illness. Dr. Dihmes' integrates evidence-based treatments such as CBT and mindfulness-based interventions, with consideration for each patient’s unique cultural, biological, and psychological background. Dr. Dihmes is now accepting new clients in California and New York!
(415) 799-5164 View (415) 799-5164
Photo of Michelle Susan Webber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Michelle Susan Webber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
I have worked with couples, individuals, and families, adolescents in crisis, the LGBTQ+ community, women in treatment, addicts/recovering addicts, HIV and AIDS, sufferers of chronic pain, people dealing with grief and loss, and those interested in pursuing mindfulness.
Licensed in both California and Connecticut - Psychotherapist, Addiction Specialist and Life Coach. Living life to the fullest is an adventure. It takes courage to go forward, to harness the power within. This is where Psychotherapy and Life Coaching meet. This is an opportunity to help you make smart choices and assist you in finding a sense of peace and acceptance while you move forward in your life. I am available to help you reach your personal and professional goals. I have studied mindfulness and work with clients who want to know more about it and embrace it. I look forward to hearing from you.
I have worked with couples, individuals, and families, adolescents in crisis, the LGBTQ+ community, women in treatment, addicts/recovering addicts, HIV and AIDS, sufferers of chronic pain, people dealing with grief and loss, and those interested in pursuing mindfulness.
Licensed in both California and Connecticut - Psychotherapist, Addiction Specialist and Life Coach. Living life to the fullest is an adventure. It takes courage to go forward, to harness the power within. This is where Psychotherapy and Life Coaching meet. This is an opportunity to help you make smart choices and assist you in finding a sense of peace and acceptance while you move forward in your life. I am available to help you reach your personal and professional goals. I have studied mindfulness and work with clients who want to know more about it and embrace it. I look forward to hearing from you.
(323) 523-5957 View (323) 523-5957
Photo of Be Mindful and Well, PhD in San Francisco, CA
Be Mindful and Well, PhD
PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
3- Grief and loss 4-Terminal illness 5- Family/Couples conflict and relationship issues 6- transition from school to college and adaptation to college.
We provide a holistic mental health coaching/counseling committed to personal, social and professional growth. Our professionals are expert professors, PhD, MA, BS in the field of health and counseling, and serving clients of all ages, and organizations for more than 20yrs.The center provides: 1- life coaching to women for varied health concerns: Nutritional counseling/ concerns for women, children, students, chronic diseases; Adaptation to pregnancy; Postpartum; menopause; Dealing with aging process; health concerns, and chronic diseases, parenting issues, adolescence challenges, body image, and skin problems and concerns.
3- Grief and loss 4-Terminal illness 5- Family/Couples conflict and relationship issues 6- transition from school to college and adaptation to college.
We provide a holistic mental health coaching/counseling committed to personal, social and professional growth. Our professionals are expert professors, PhD, MA, BS in the field of health and counseling, and serving clients of all ages, and organizations for more than 20yrs.The center provides: 1- life coaching to women for varied health concerns: Nutritional counseling/ concerns for women, children, students, chronic diseases; Adaptation to pregnancy; Postpartum; menopause; Dealing with aging process; health concerns, and chronic diseases, parenting issues, adolescence challenges, body image, and skin problems and concerns.
(617) 744-7497 View (617) 744-7497

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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.