Photo of Amber Smith, Counselor in Fort Myers, FL
Amber Smith
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33905  (Online Only)
I am a cancer survivor; therefore I am extremely passionate about helping others cope with medical conditions and the consequences of the conditions including chronic pain and infertility.
I have over 19 years of experience empowering individuals to live their best lives while coping with difficulties including anxiety, depression, trauma, medical concerns, & family/parenting challenges. I have a variety of personal & professional experiences that contribute to the development of my empathy, understanding, & reliability. I began my career working with children who had a family member murdered. Since then I have worked with a variety of trauma victims including sexual abuse survivors, adults with child abuse histories, and domestic violence victims.
I am a cancer survivor; therefore I am extremely passionate about helping others cope with medical conditions and the consequences of the conditions including chronic pain and infertility.
I have over 19 years of experience empowering individuals to live their best lives while coping with difficulties including anxiety, depression, trauma, medical concerns, & family/parenting challenges. I have a variety of personal & professional experiences that contribute to the development of my empathy, understanding, & reliability. I began my career working with children who had a family member murdered. Since then I have worked with a variety of trauma victims including sexual abuse survivors, adults with child abuse histories, and domestic violence victims.
(239) 688-3204 View (239) 688-3204
Photo of Stacie Ann Kreiger, Counselor in Fort Myers, FL
Stacie Ann Kreiger
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33919  (Online Only)
Pain and suffering is real.
I'm looking forward to meeting you, hearing your story, and helping you find healing. Years of education and experience have afforded me the wisdom and ability to help you understand the mental distress you are experiencing, and then to collaborate and create the most effective treatment plan possible. In addition to being a counselor, I am a business woman, a wife of 36 years, a mother of 4 adult children, and a grandmother to many:) I understand that the struggles we all face are personal and often profound. My goal is to create an atmosphere that provides my clients comfort, care, Christianity, and compassion.
Pain and suffering is real.
I'm looking forward to meeting you, hearing your story, and helping you find healing. Years of education and experience have afforded me the wisdom and ability to help you understand the mental distress you are experiencing, and then to collaborate and create the most effective treatment plan possible. In addition to being a counselor, I am a business woman, a wife of 36 years, a mother of 4 adult children, and a grandmother to many:) I understand that the struggles we all face are personal and often profound. My goal is to create an atmosphere that provides my clients comfort, care, Christianity, and compassion.
(260) 202-1337 View (260) 202-1337
Photo of Brittany Nelsen, Psychologist in Fort Myers, FL
Brittany Nelsen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience in the area of sport psychology, helping athletes to overcome injury, illness, anxiety, skill building, transitioning to college, and retirement.
Taking that first step to find a therapist can be overwhelming. As a clinical psychologist, I greatly value the privilege of walking alongside hurting people in need of hope. I utilize a person centered, solutions focused approach that values the individual and each individual's experience. I offer therapy from a faith based perspective, seeking to promote change through the healing God can provide. I enjoy working with all age groups from the very young through adulthood. No matter where you are along your journey to health, I'd love to meet you and work together towards accomplishing your goals!
I have extensive experience in the area of sport psychology, helping athletes to overcome injury, illness, anxiety, skill building, transitioning to college, and retirement.
Taking that first step to find a therapist can be overwhelming. As a clinical psychologist, I greatly value the privilege of walking alongside hurting people in need of hope. I utilize a person centered, solutions focused approach that values the individual and each individual's experience. I offer therapy from a faith based perspective, seeking to promote change through the healing God can provide. I enjoy working with all age groups from the very young through adulthood. No matter where you are along your journey to health, I'd love to meet you and work together towards accomplishing your goals!
(239) 204-5363 View (239) 204-5363
Photo of Cindy Matthes-Loy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Myers, FL
Cindy Matthes-Loy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33907
If you have found your way to this place, you are probably looking for someone who will treat you as an individual, listen, and actively help you to find what you are looking for... I am ready to be the one who will accompany you through your process of growth, healing, problem-solving, or recovery. If you are experiencing challenging situations or relationships, I can help you to navigate through them. If you have been through difficult or traumatic events in life, I can help you to cope and restructure the thoughts and feelings you may have.
If you have found your way to this place, you are probably looking for someone who will treat you as an individual, listen, and actively help you to find what you are looking for... I am ready to be the one who will accompany you through your process of growth, healing, problem-solving, or recovery. If you are experiencing challenging situations or relationships, I can help you to navigate through them. If you have been through difficult or traumatic events in life, I can help you to cope and restructure the thoughts and feelings you may have.
(239) 321-5500 View (239) 321-5500
Photo of Liza J. Vitiello, Counselor in Fort Myers, FL
Liza J. Vitiello
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33901  (Online Only)
Many benefits are possible from participating in counseling. Counseling can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Counseling can help you find new ways to cope with stress, better manage anger, depression, and other emotional pressures. Get "unstuck" from past relationships and family issues--break old patterns and develop new ways of dealing with old issues. Heal old psychological wounds---repair damage from the past. Discover creative ways to problem-solve. Improve your self esteem and boost your self confidence. The overall result can be improved health and well being.
Many benefits are possible from participating in counseling. Counseling can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Counseling can help you find new ways to cope with stress, better manage anger, depression, and other emotional pressures. Get "unstuck" from past relationships and family issues--break old patterns and develop new ways of dealing with old issues. Heal old psychological wounds---repair damage from the past. Discover creative ways to problem-solve. Improve your self esteem and boost your self confidence. The overall result can be improved health and well being.
(239) 217-9124 x1 View (239) 217-9124 x1
Photo of Sivia Castro, Pre-Licensed Professional in Fort Myers, FL
Sivia Castro
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33907
My name is Sivia Castro and I am a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern. I provide services in English & Spanish. I accept ages 16 and over. My primary objective as a counselor is to establish a supportive and non-judgmental space where my clients can feel safe to be themselves. I aim to create a space where my clients feel like they can openly share and explore their concerns. My approach to counseling is rooted in the belief that each person is uniquely different. So I strive to provide a personalized approach based on my client’s needs.
My name is Sivia Castro and I am a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern. I provide services in English & Spanish. I accept ages 16 and over. My primary objective as a counselor is to establish a supportive and non-judgmental space where my clients can feel safe to be themselves. I aim to create a space where my clients feel like they can openly share and explore their concerns. My approach to counseling is rooted in the belief that each person is uniquely different. So I strive to provide a personalized approach based on my client’s needs.
(239) 829-9628 x126 View (239) 829-9628 x126
Photo of Vicki Rodriguez, Psychologist in Fort Myers, FL
Vicki Rodriguez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33905  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Dr. Vicki Rodriguez (She/Her/Ella) and I want to say congratulations on taking the first step toward therapy! I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Florida specializing in psychological wellness surrounding trauma, reproductive issues, infertility, perinatal mental health, postpartum concerns, difficult birthing experiences, miscarriage, pregnancy and neonatal loss, pregnancy termination for any reason, transition to parenting, and the impact of fertility/pregnancy/loss on relationships.
Hello! My name is Dr. Vicki Rodriguez (She/Her/Ella) and I want to say congratulations on taking the first step toward therapy! I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Florida specializing in psychological wellness surrounding trauma, reproductive issues, infertility, perinatal mental health, postpartum concerns, difficult birthing experiences, miscarriage, pregnancy and neonatal loss, pregnancy termination for any reason, transition to parenting, and the impact of fertility/pregnancy/loss on relationships.
(239) 932-5967 View (239) 932-5967
Photo of Mandala Counseling Services, Counselor in Fort Myers, FL
Mandala Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33919
I have always wanted to help people. I’ve been able to do that in a variety of ways over the years. Working in domestic violence shelters, agencies that assist child sexual abuse survivors, in-home intensive substance abuse counseling...I’m privileged to have been able to help so many. It truly makes me happy. Now, I have my own practice after all of these years and I couldn’t be more excited to continue helping people; just in a much more enjoyable and comfortable setting. The therapists that work at Mandala are personally hired by me, and they are all wonderful and caring! You’re in great hands!
I have always wanted to help people. I’ve been able to do that in a variety of ways over the years. Working in domestic violence shelters, agencies that assist child sexual abuse survivors, in-home intensive substance abuse counseling...I’m privileged to have been able to help so many. It truly makes me happy. Now, I have my own practice after all of these years and I couldn’t be more excited to continue helping people; just in a much more enjoyable and comfortable setting. The therapists that work at Mandala are personally hired by me, and they are all wonderful and caring! You’re in great hands!
(239) 360-1983 View (239) 360-1983
Photo of Carolina Ferrer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Myers, FL
Carolina Ferrer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, QS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33913
Much of my professional experience includes a vast range of ages including children, adolescents, young adults, and seniors. I value the importance community connections by reducing the stigma of mental health in organizations as well as stress reduction techniques. I enjoy working with couples, and families who are struggling in communication. I specialize with overcoming life difficulties including trauma, grief and loss, relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, coping skills, self-esteem, infertility, family conflict and unexpected birthing outcomes. As well as overcoming perinatal/ maternal post-partum disorders.
Much of my professional experience includes a vast range of ages including children, adolescents, young adults, and seniors. I value the importance community connections by reducing the stigma of mental health in organizations as well as stress reduction techniques. I enjoy working with couples, and families who are struggling in communication. I specialize with overcoming life difficulties including trauma, grief and loss, relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, coping skills, self-esteem, infertility, family conflict and unexpected birthing outcomes. As well as overcoming perinatal/ maternal post-partum disorders.
(239) 323-6072 View (239) 323-6072
Photo of Chelsea Darling, Pre-Licensed Professional in Fort Myers, FL
Chelsea Darling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, ATR
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Not accepting new clients
Navigating life's challenges can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. Have you ever found yourself caught in a recurring cycle of emotions and behaviors, unsure of how to break free? Do anxious thoughts seem to hold you back from the happiness and fulfillment you seek? If so, you're not alone, and I'm here to help. Together, we'll tackle these challenges head-on. Through your therapeutic journey, you'll gain valuable insights into your past, a deeper understanding of your present, and the resilience needed to overcome obstacles that may have been hindering your pursuit of an ideal life.
Navigating life's challenges can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. Have you ever found yourself caught in a recurring cycle of emotions and behaviors, unsure of how to break free? Do anxious thoughts seem to hold you back from the happiness and fulfillment you seek? If so, you're not alone, and I'm here to help. Together, we'll tackle these challenges head-on. Through your therapeutic journey, you'll gain valuable insights into your past, a deeper understanding of your present, and the resilience needed to overcome obstacles that may have been hindering your pursuit of an ideal life.
(239) 356-1014 View (239) 356-1014

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Psychologist Dr. Phyllis Walters in Fort Myers, FL
Psychologist Dr. Phyllis Walters
PhD, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Estero, FL 33928
Walters assists her patients by helping them build resilience, optimism and wisdom so that they may be better prepared to face and manage signs of anxiety impulses, depression despair, obsessive compulsive behaviors, learning difficulties, relationship challenges, loss, addiction, transitions, career and school changes as well as trauma and illness.
Dr. Walters earned a Ph.D. in Psychology from The University of Northern Colorado and a Masters degree from the University of Alabama. During her education Dr. Walters completed a variety of training experiences including working in a drug rehabilitation center, public schools, the University Mental Health Clinic where she provided counseling to families, couples, individuals, and children. Dr. Walters also worked in the Neuropyschology Clinic providing neuropsychological assessment. She completed a dissertation titled Traumatic Brain Injury Self Report: Identifying the Relationship between Personality and Risk Taking Behavior.
Walters assists her patients by helping them build resilience, optimism and wisdom so that they may be better prepared to face and manage signs of anxiety impulses, depression despair, obsessive compulsive behaviors, learning difficulties, relationship challenges, loss, addiction, transitions, career and school changes as well as trauma and illness.
Dr. Walters earned a Ph.D. in Psychology from The University of Northern Colorado and a Masters degree from the University of Alabama. During her education Dr. Walters completed a variety of training experiences including working in a drug rehabilitation center, public schools, the University Mental Health Clinic where she provided counseling to families, couples, individuals, and children. Dr. Walters also worked in the Neuropyschology Clinic providing neuropsychological assessment. She completed a dissertation titled Traumatic Brain Injury Self Report: Identifying the Relationship between Personality and Risk Taking Behavior.
(239) 449-8406 View (239) 449-8406
Photo of Lime Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Myers, FL
Lime Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cape Coral, FL 33990  (Online Only)
Struggling with life changes? Feeling Overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed? We are here to support your unique needs. We serve: young adults, adults, aging population/geriatrics, LGBTQ+, adult entertainment industry workers, caregivers, parents, single parents, blended families, stressed or overwhelmed, anxious, trauma/abuse survivors, adoption/foster care history, Sensory Process Disorder, and individuals seeking a mental health evaluation to help support their application for immigration.
Struggling with life changes? Feeling Overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed? We are here to support your unique needs. We serve: young adults, adults, aging population/geriatrics, LGBTQ+, adult entertainment industry workers, caregivers, parents, single parents, blended families, stressed or overwhelmed, anxious, trauma/abuse survivors, adoption/foster care history, Sensory Process Disorder, and individuals seeking a mental health evaluation to help support their application for immigration.
(239) 747-7099 View (239) 747-7099
Photo of Alison M. Slater, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Myers, FL
Alison M. Slater, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Estero, FL 33928  (Online Only)
Whether struggling with a specific challenge in life or relationship, or continuing your growth on the ever-expanding spiritual path of life, it is my passion to share this journey with you. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and utilize mindfulness-based techniques (such as meditation, visualization and body awareness) united with elements of more traditional modalities. Encompassing a holistic approach to therapy, all aspects of the client's life are included to increase balance and self-awareness, identify personal therapeutic goals, and then to co-create the most enriching path toward optimal health.
Whether struggling with a specific challenge in life or relationship, or continuing your growth on the ever-expanding spiritual path of life, it is my passion to share this journey with you. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection and utilize mindfulness-based techniques (such as meditation, visualization and body awareness) united with elements of more traditional modalities. Encompassing a holistic approach to therapy, all aspects of the client's life are included to increase balance and self-awareness, identify personal therapeutic goals, and then to co-create the most enriching path toward optimal health.
(239) 747-1044 View (239) 747-1044
Photo of Dr. Lisandra Mendoza (Licensed Psychologist), Psychologist in Fort Myers, FL
Dr. Lisandra Mendoza (Licensed Psychologist)
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cape Coral, FL 33991  (Online Only)
You might feel unable to experience joy or persistent anxiety, fear, and anger. Stuck in the past, you can’t see a bright future. You might be straddling two cultures—the one you left behind and the one you are trying to embrace. Continued stress, hardship, or trauma could take a toll on your health, resulting in sleep issues, concentration problems, and chronic illnesses. Psychotherapy promotes wellness to improve mental and physical health. Building resilience is essential to restore self-agency. It would be a pleasure to take you on a journey to self-actualization!
You might feel unable to experience joy or persistent anxiety, fear, and anger. Stuck in the past, you can’t see a bright future. You might be straddling two cultures—the one you left behind and the one you are trying to embrace. Continued stress, hardship, or trauma could take a toll on your health, resulting in sleep issues, concentration problems, and chronic illnesses. Psychotherapy promotes wellness to improve mental and physical health. Building resilience is essential to restore self-agency. It would be a pleasure to take you on a journey to self-actualization!
(239) 429-0805 View (239) 429-0805
Photo of Instant Access 24-7 And Emotional Change, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fort Myers, FL
Instant Access 24-7 And Emotional Change
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
Emotional Change provides quality therapy to diverse populations with diverse needs by providing a variety of therapists quickly. On our website, choose the Instant Access option to see someone immediately or select the "New Client Form" button to set up an appointment with a licensed clinician in your insurance network. We accept most Insurances Plans and have low fee options. To access us, scroll down and click the button that says "my website".
Emotional Change provides quality therapy to diverse populations with diverse needs by providing a variety of therapists quickly. On our website, choose the Instant Access option to see someone immediately or select the "New Client Form" button to set up an appointment with a licensed clinician in your insurance network. We accept most Insurances Plans and have low fee options. To access us, scroll down and click the button that says "my website".
(323) 906-7846 View (323) 906-7846

Online Therapists

Photo of Basia Toczek in Fort Myers, FL
Basia Toczek
ND, MA, FNTP, E-RYT
Not Verified Not Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of chronic stress, physical health issues, digestive health, chronic pain, academic and career difficulties, life transitions, family of origin problems, relationship difficulties, goal achievement and life meaning/existential challenges.
As a wellness practitioner, neuro-feedback trainer, life coach, sound therapist, mindfulness teacher/facilitator, & nutrition consultant I address the whole person, not just the symptoms. I help individuals transform their mental & physical health holistically, through natural & whole person approaches. I truly believe that there are many avenues to personal growth & success, therefore personal wellness should be an enjoyable, individualized, & affordable process. This is why I offer a wide range of natural, self-healing, sustainable, modalities that address both mental & physical health.
I specialize in the treatment of chronic stress, physical health issues, digestive health, chronic pain, academic and career difficulties, life transitions, family of origin problems, relationship difficulties, goal achievement and life meaning/existential challenges.
As a wellness practitioner, neuro-feedback trainer, life coach, sound therapist, mindfulness teacher/facilitator, & nutrition consultant I address the whole person, not just the symptoms. I help individuals transform their mental & physical health holistically, through natural & whole person approaches. I truly believe that there are many avenues to personal growth & success, therefore personal wellness should be an enjoyable, individualized, & affordable process. This is why I offer a wide range of natural, self-healing, sustainable, modalities that address both mental & physical health.
(813) 402-0723 View (813) 402-0723
Photo of Lisa Grossman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Myers, FL
Lisa Grossman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DOM, AP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bradenton, FL 34209
I offer over 28 years of clinical experience to address your emotional & physical issues with counseling and evidence based natural medicine. We have all experienced emotions that manifest in our bodies as pain. You may experience stomach pain after an argument or headache at work. You may notice you get anxiety that feels like low blood sugar signals. Emotions manifest in our bodies and our body gives us signals. I help guide people into understanding how to listen to their body while including Cognitive Behavioral therapy for attaining a stronger sense of self. Mindfulness starts when we reside in our bodies; empowerment follows!
I offer over 28 years of clinical experience to address your emotional & physical issues with counseling and evidence based natural medicine. We have all experienced emotions that manifest in our bodies as pain. You may experience stomach pain after an argument or headache at work. You may notice you get anxiety that feels like low blood sugar signals. Emotions manifest in our bodies and our body gives us signals. I help guide people into understanding how to listen to their body while including Cognitive Behavioral therapy for attaining a stronger sense of self. Mindfulness starts when we reside in our bodies; empowerment follows!
(941) 479-2924 View (941) 479-2924
Photo of Dr. Zoë Teresa Folts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Myers, FL
Dr. Zoë Teresa Folts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
Dr. Folts sees clients facing a variety of issues with offices in Arizona and Florida. Life presents us with circumstances; at times challenging our relationships and ourselves. Therapy can be a catalyst in the discovery of creative and viable solutions, or in the personal work toward acceptance. Dr. Folts brings a wealth of experience and training. She has been a faculty member with Maricopa Community Colleges and counseled students, employees and faculty in her work with Arizona State University. Dr Folts' doctoral research included depression, anxiety, chronic/prolonged illness, as well as those facing terminal diagnosis.
Dr. Folts sees clients facing a variety of issues with offices in Arizona and Florida. Life presents us with circumstances; at times challenging our relationships and ourselves. Therapy can be a catalyst in the discovery of creative and viable solutions, or in the personal work toward acceptance. Dr. Folts brings a wealth of experience and training. She has been a faculty member with Maricopa Community Colleges and counseled students, employees and faculty in her work with Arizona State University. Dr Folts' doctoral research included depression, anxiety, chronic/prolonged illness, as well as those facing terminal diagnosis.
(602) 671-2607 View (602) 671-2607
Photo of Kelly Lehman, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Fort Myers, FL
Kelly Lehman
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC , LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
I have over 18 years' experience with people struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, grief/loss, chronic pain/health conditions, trauma, relationship conflicts, and more.
Do you feel misunderstood? Do you struggle to connect with your partner or children? Are you consumed with worry or fear? Do you have a chronic health condition or physical pain? Does it feel like things are never going to get any better? If you're reading this, you likely already know life isn't easy. Challenges strike us all, and even though it may seem like we are alone, we aren't. Being able to take the first step and search this website shows you have the internal strength within you...you can overcome. I am here to help. My goal is to help you achieve your goals! This may be uncomfortable at times, but healing is possible!
I have over 18 years' experience with people struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, grief/loss, chronic pain/health conditions, trauma, relationship conflicts, and more.
Do you feel misunderstood? Do you struggle to connect with your partner or children? Are you consumed with worry or fear? Do you have a chronic health condition or physical pain? Does it feel like things are never going to get any better? If you're reading this, you likely already know life isn't easy. Challenges strike us all, and even though it may seem like we are alone, we aren't. Being able to take the first step and search this website shows you have the internal strength within you...you can overcome. I am here to help. My goal is to help you achieve your goals! This may be uncomfortable at times, but healing is possible!
(727) 344-9867 View (727) 344-9867
Photo of Dori E Goldfarb, Psychologist in Fort Myers, FL
Dori E Goldfarb
Psychologist, MS, MPhil, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34237
Our goal is to get you back to being you. Dr. Goldfarb is a Yale trained psychologist who offers psychological services for mood and anxiety disorders including depression, anxiety, addictions, ADHD/ADD, stress, grief and loss, infertility, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and chronic pain. We work with individuals, couples, and families. We treat children, adolescents and adults. Dr. Goldfarb provides evidence-based treatment, including psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy. She has extensive training in working with clients with eating and weight disorders. She also specializes in conducting psychological evaluations/assessments for children and adults, including gifted testing and forensic evaluations.
Our goal is to get you back to being you. Dr. Goldfarb is a Yale trained psychologist who offers psychological services for mood and anxiety disorders including depression, anxiety, addictions, ADHD/ADD, stress, grief and loss, infertility, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and chronic pain. We work with individuals, couples, and families. We treat children, adolescents and adults. Dr. Goldfarb provides evidence-based treatment, including psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy. She has extensive training in working with clients with eating and weight disorders. She also specializes in conducting psychological evaluations/assessments for children and adults, including gifted testing and forensic evaluations.
(941) 256-7558 View (941) 256-7558
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.