Chronic Pain Therapists in Pickens County, GA

Photo of Amber Hammontree, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Amber Hammontree
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jasper, GA 30143  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm thrilled you're considering taking this courageous step towards your well-being. Choosing a therapist is a deeply personal decision, and it is essential to find someone who is relatable and can support you during your journey. As a dedicated therapist, I offer you a supportive and empowering journey toward healing and growth. My approach is rooted in compassion, authenticity, and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences freely.
Welcome! I'm thrilled you're considering taking this courageous step towards your well-being. Choosing a therapist is a deeply personal decision, and it is essential to find someone who is relatable and can support you during your journey. As a dedicated therapist, I offer you a supportive and empowering journey toward healing and growth. My approach is rooted in compassion, authenticity, and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences freely.
(404) 436-1037 View (404) 436-1037
Photo of Rachel Raven, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pickens County, GA
Rachel Raven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jasper, GA 30143
Hello, my name is Rachel Raven and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated with my Bachelor’s in Sociology from the University of Georgia in 2011 and received my Master’s in Social Work from Kennesaw State University in 2016. I have had diverse experience including hospital case management, child/adolescent grief counseling, group work with Cirque du Monde (a circus outreach program for at-risk youth), and domestic violence survivor support. Additionally, I volunteer annually at Give Kids the World Village in Orlando, which is an accessible resort for Make-A-Wish children and their families.
Hello, my name is Rachel Raven and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated with my Bachelor’s in Sociology from the University of Georgia in 2011 and received my Master’s in Social Work from Kennesaw State University in 2016. I have had diverse experience including hospital case management, child/adolescent grief counseling, group work with Cirque du Monde (a circus outreach program for at-risk youth), and domestic violence survivor support. Additionally, I volunteer annually at Give Kids the World Village in Orlando, which is an accessible resort for Make-A-Wish children and their families.
(678) 737-4385 View (678) 737-4385

Online Therapists

Photo of Keir Brady, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pickens County, GA
Keir Brady
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30062
You are seeking a therapist because you want to make your life and relationships better. You may feel discouraged and feel helpless as to how to improve things. The good news is that individual or couples therapy can help. Through therapy, I can help you free yourself from stress and struggle. Together we can work to heal your pain, create the relationships that you want, improve your self-esteem, and build a more fulfilling life. I can help you develop more compassion for your pain and be kinder to yourself so you can feel more hopeful about your life and relationships.
You are seeking a therapist because you want to make your life and relationships better. You may feel discouraged and feel helpless as to how to improve things. The good news is that individual or couples therapy can help. Through therapy, I can help you free yourself from stress and struggle. Together we can work to heal your pain, create the relationships that you want, improve your self-esteem, and build a more fulfilling life. I can help you develop more compassion for your pain and be kinder to yourself so you can feel more hopeful about your life and relationships.
(404) 341-4163 View (404) 341-4163
Photo of Maureen A. Grady Morales, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Maureen A. Grady Morales
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
Currently featured in Atlanta Magazine, I can help you through a cutting edge neuropsychological approach to therapy. Emotional and physical pain are often interrelated. I am a trauma specialist who uses a combination of therapies to help you transform your life from not-so-good to great. I can help you calm the mind and the body, reducing anxiety laden symptoms. Advanced BrainSpotting, CBT, DBT, and Somatic Experiencing™ are tools that can really help move you forward from the inside out. Conveniently located in Buckhead and Brookhaven. Currently taking “Virtual” counseling patients through Zoom.
Currently featured in Atlanta Magazine, I can help you through a cutting edge neuropsychological approach to therapy. Emotional and physical pain are often interrelated. I am a trauma specialist who uses a combination of therapies to help you transform your life from not-so-good to great. I can help you calm the mind and the body, reducing anxiety laden symptoms. Advanced BrainSpotting, CBT, DBT, and Somatic Experiencing™ are tools that can really help move you forward from the inside out. Conveniently located in Buckhead and Brookhaven. Currently taking “Virtual” counseling patients through Zoom.
(678) 498-1576 View (678) 498-1576
Photo of Emily Cade, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Emily Cade
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I am a therapist in Decatur, Georgia who provides services to adolescents & adults. Having spent the past 20+ years working with individuals and families who have experienced life-changing events, I hold a deep understanding of the emotional and psychological impact the twists and turns life can throw your way. Believing that therapy can be a catalyst for lasting change, I strive to provide a safe, welcoming, relaxed environment for clients to share their struggles, their pain, as well as their wins in life.
I am a therapist in Decatur, Georgia who provides services to adolescents & adults. Having spent the past 20+ years working with individuals and families who have experienced life-changing events, I hold a deep understanding of the emotional and psychological impact the twists and turns life can throw your way. Believing that therapy can be a catalyst for lasting change, I strive to provide a safe, welcoming, relaxed environment for clients to share their struggles, their pain, as well as their wins in life.
(470) 748-6566 View (470) 748-6566
Photo of Alice D Hoag, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Alice D Hoag
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Johns Creek, GA 30022
Trauma, stress, grief, betrayal, loneliness, depression, and anxiety all lead to psychological distress which impacts our minds, bodies, and souls. I specialize in working with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma and abuse recovery, and grief and loss. Our intimate relationships are crucial in promoting our wellbeing, yet sometimes those relationships become the source of our greatest pain. I also specialize in working with intimate relationship issues including infertility, communication, infidelity, divorce recovery, co-parenting, and blending of families.
Trauma, stress, grief, betrayal, loneliness, depression, and anxiety all lead to psychological distress which impacts our minds, bodies, and souls. I specialize in working with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma and abuse recovery, and grief and loss. Our intimate relationships are crucial in promoting our wellbeing, yet sometimes those relationships become the source of our greatest pain. I also specialize in working with intimate relationship issues including infertility, communication, infidelity, divorce recovery, co-parenting, and blending of families.
(404) 436-2973 View (404) 436-2973
Photo of Kate Zera Kray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pickens County, GA
Kate Zera Kray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
From anxiety, to life transitions, to chronic illness; my skillset is as varied as my experience in medical hospitals (10+ years), cancer wellness centers(15+ years), and social service agencies(4 years).
Are you overcome with grief and wondering how you will (ever) recover from the death of a loved one; the loss of a job; a divorce; or your own decline in health? Are you finding that time does not heal all wounds? I am sorry you are going through a difficult time and I commend you for reaching out for support along your journey. It is my hope that my extensive clinical experience, coupled with your resiliency and resolve, will enable us to uncover the tools necessary to reinvest in your life. I am accepting new clients for virtual meetings. I am licensed in Georgia, Illinois and Iowa.
From anxiety, to life transitions, to chronic illness; my skillset is as varied as my experience in medical hospitals (10+ years), cancer wellness centers(15+ years), and social service agencies(4 years).
Are you overcome with grief and wondering how you will (ever) recover from the death of a loved one; the loss of a job; a divorce; or your own decline in health? Are you finding that time does not heal all wounds? I am sorry you are going through a difficult time and I commend you for reaching out for support along your journey. It is my hope that my extensive clinical experience, coupled with your resiliency and resolve, will enable us to uncover the tools necessary to reinvest in your life. I am accepting new clients for virtual meetings. I am licensed in Georgia, Illinois and Iowa.
(404) 341-6729 View (404) 341-6729
Photo of Rebecca Short, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pickens County, GA
Rebecca Short
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Gainesville, GA 30506  (Online Only)
I also have a special connection with those experiencing grief, facing terminal illness, those involved in caregiving of family members, and those coping with chronic pain in their own lives, especially fibromyalgia.
My ideal client is you. You are on a journey of self-discovery and healing that has led you to this site and my profile. You are courageous, brave, and determined to make meaning in your life. You are tired of hurting. You are looking for someone to accompany you on this journey who understands what it’s like to be in your shoes and honors that knowledge with empathy and respect. It would be a privilege to be that person to accompany you.
I also have a special connection with those experiencing grief, facing terminal illness, those involved in caregiving of family members, and those coping with chronic pain in their own lives, especially fibromyalgia.
My ideal client is you. You are on a journey of self-discovery and healing that has led you to this site and my profile. You are courageous, brave, and determined to make meaning in your life. You are tired of hurting. You are looking for someone to accompany you on this journey who understands what it’s like to be in your shoes and honors that knowledge with empathy and respect. It would be a privilege to be that person to accompany you.
(678) 928-8566 View (678) 928-8566
Photo of Ilene L Cooper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pickens County, GA
Ilene L Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIRT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30075  (Online Only)
I have worked to help others with divorce, couples, parenting issues, interference with achieving higher functioning in work, trauma, grief, creativity, chronic pain, and low self-esteem.
Counseling is provided in a supportive atmosphere to find new solutions with the issues you are struggling with. Professional counseling is provided to assist individuals with relationships, diminish stress, and to achieve clarity and confidence about goals and personal desires. Helping clients reach their potential in pursuits that they feel is important is a priority. Each individual is given care and attention to begin to understand the reasons that have led to current difficulties. Goals are established collaboratively to achieve relief and lasting change.
I have worked to help others with divorce, couples, parenting issues, interference with achieving higher functioning in work, trauma, grief, creativity, chronic pain, and low self-esteem.
Counseling is provided in a supportive atmosphere to find new solutions with the issues you are struggling with. Professional counseling is provided to assist individuals with relationships, diminish stress, and to achieve clarity and confidence about goals and personal desires. Helping clients reach their potential in pursuits that they feel is important is a priority. Each individual is given care and attention to begin to understand the reasons that have led to current difficulties. Goals are established collaboratively to achieve relief and lasting change.
(678) 245-6191 View (678) 245-6191
Photo of Richard E. Shook, Psychologist in Pickens County, GA
Richard E. Shook
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30060
My residency was at the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, where I also completed a Fellowship in Pain Management in the Anesthesiology Department.
Are you looking for counseling, psychotherapy? Are you or your child struggling with problems? Through individual and/or family counseling, you can develop ways to address problems. Psychological testing may be used to more deeply understand your challenges. Assisting you at the highest level, my knowledge and skills are kept current. I've been a licensed psychologist for over 28 years. I assist children and teenagers, adults, couples and families. Prior to private practice, I obtained extensive inpatient experience in a psychiatric prison, an inpatient adolescent facility and the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center .
My residency was at the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, where I also completed a Fellowship in Pain Management in the Anesthesiology Department.
Are you looking for counseling, psychotherapy? Are you or your child struggling with problems? Through individual and/or family counseling, you can develop ways to address problems. Psychological testing may be used to more deeply understand your challenges. Assisting you at the highest level, my knowledge and skills are kept current. I've been a licensed psychologist for over 28 years. I assist children and teenagers, adults, couples and families. Prior to private practice, I obtained extensive inpatient experience in a psychiatric prison, an inpatient adolescent facility and the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center .
(678) 680-8510 View (678) 680-8510
Photo of Ed Glauser, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Ed Glauser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30605  (Online Only)
I have specialized training and certifications in Mind Body Medicine, Clinical Hypnosis, Yoga Philosophy, Behavioral Sleep, Stress and Pain Management, Online Counseling, as well as Mindfulness-based approaches for assisting individuals throughout the lifespan in experiencing relief from chronic pain, illness, insomnia, depression, stress, trauma and relationship issues. I am also a Board Certified-Telemental Health Provider. My graduate counseling degree is from the University of Georgia. I am Licensed in Florida (telemental health only), Georgia and North Carolina. Offering 100% Telemental Health Counseling.
I have specialized training and certifications in Mind Body Medicine, Clinical Hypnosis, Yoga Philosophy, Behavioral Sleep, Stress and Pain Management, Online Counseling, as well as Mindfulness-based approaches for assisting individuals throughout the lifespan in experiencing relief from chronic pain, illness, insomnia, depression, stress, trauma and relationship issues. I am also a Board Certified-Telemental Health Provider. My graduate counseling degree is from the University of Georgia. I am Licensed in Florida (telemental health only), Georgia and North Carolina. Offering 100% Telemental Health Counseling.
(706) 752-7194 View (706) 752-7194
Photo of Joy Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pickens County, GA
Joy Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30307
The truth is, you're a total badass who has been pushing through pain and difficulty most of your life. Most people around you don't notice that you’re struggling, because you've been holding it all together so long. But all the struggle and the work to keep it "under wraps" is starting to wear on you. You're tired. You might feel numb and struggle to connect with those you love or feel constantly on-edge or anxious. You may even have flashbacks of your worst moments or developed chronic pain or syndromes. It's starting to feel impossible to keep "holding it all together."
The truth is, you're a total badass who has been pushing through pain and difficulty most of your life. Most people around you don't notice that you’re struggling, because you've been holding it all together so long. But all the struggle and the work to keep it "under wraps" is starting to wear on you. You're tired. You might feel numb and struggle to connect with those you love or feel constantly on-edge or anxious. You may even have flashbacks of your worst moments or developed chronic pain or syndromes. It's starting to feel impossible to keep "holding it all together."
(404) 383-3739 View (404) 383-3739
Photo of Dr. Erika Pluhar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pickens County, GA
Dr. Erika Pluhar
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, EdS, LMFT, LPC, CST-S
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
I also specialize in working with pelvic and/or sexual pain (e.
Thank you for viewing my profile. You also may visit my websites: www.erikapluhar.com and www.wholeheartpsychotherapy.net. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, and Certified Sex Therapist and Supervisor. I work with adult individuals and couples who have difficulties with relationships and sexuality. My approach supports the integration of the mind, body, and spirit. I take into consideration each individual's background as well as the dynamics in the relationship. My treatment philosophy combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with deeper emotional process and attachment/EFT work.
I also specialize in working with pelvic and/or sexual pain (e.
Thank you for viewing my profile. You also may visit my websites: www.erikapluhar.com and www.wholeheartpsychotherapy.net. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, and Certified Sex Therapist and Supervisor. I work with adult individuals and couples who have difficulties with relationships and sexuality. My approach supports the integration of the mind, body, and spirit. I take into consideration each individual's background as well as the dynamics in the relationship. My treatment philosophy combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with deeper emotional process and attachment/EFT work.
(404) 566-9987 View (404) 566-9987
Photo of Michael-Renee Godfrey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Michael-Renee Godfrey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD,RN, LPC,PCS, BC-TMH, CAMS-II, CFRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Acworth, GA 30101
I'm an RN, plus an LPC, so I understand chronic pain/disease.
"If my aim is to prove I am enough, the project goes on to infinity; because the battle was already lost on the day I conceded the issue was debatable." ~Nathaniel Branden. As an experiential therapist, I "name the elephant in the room" & help clients navigate obstacles denying them pure joy in living. I work with clients to get out of their own way, embrace their power, choose "gutz over fear," & not let their worst enemy be between their own two ears. My clients learn the power & responsibility of choice, self-compassion when self-esteem fails, respect in accountability, grace when failing forward, and celebration & love of self.
I'm an RN, plus an LPC, so I understand chronic pain/disease.
"If my aim is to prove I am enough, the project goes on to infinity; because the battle was already lost on the day I conceded the issue was debatable." ~Nathaniel Branden. As an experiential therapist, I "name the elephant in the room" & help clients navigate obstacles denying them pure joy in living. I work with clients to get out of their own way, embrace their power, choose "gutz over fear," & not let their worst enemy be between their own two ears. My clients learn the power & responsibility of choice, self-compassion when self-esteem fails, respect in accountability, grace when failing forward, and celebration & love of self.
(678) 918-4076 View (678) 918-4076
Photo of Morgan McGill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Morgan McGill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EdS, LPC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009
I use a combination of approaches to support women with the following concerns: anxiety, trauma, body image, self-esteem, depression, life transitions, and chronic pain/illness.
Making the decision to start therapy is a monumental step in one's healing journey. My goal is to provide a safe, warm, compassionate, and collaborative environment where clients can explore all the parts of their inner and outer world and make long-lasting changes that lead to a more fulfilling life. Utilizing a holistic approach to therapy, I honor the mental, physical, and spiritual components of our being. I believe the client is the expert of their experience and my role is to support them through their self-healing and discovery.
I use a combination of approaches to support women with the following concerns: anxiety, trauma, body image, self-esteem, depression, life transitions, and chronic pain/illness.
Making the decision to start therapy is a monumental step in one's healing journey. My goal is to provide a safe, warm, compassionate, and collaborative environment where clients can explore all the parts of their inner and outer world and make long-lasting changes that lead to a more fulfilling life. Utilizing a holistic approach to therapy, I honor the mental, physical, and spiritual components of our being. I believe the client is the expert of their experience and my role is to support them through their self-healing and discovery.
(678) 403-6331 View (678) 403-6331
Photo of James Tankersley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
James Tankersley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Acworth, GA 30101
Hello, I’m James! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience. I am particularly interested in supporting clients who struggle with chronic pain issues, anxiety, depression, and chronic stress. My approach is a combination of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Dialectical (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Biofeedback, and Supportive therapy. I believe individuals can stop struggling with complex thoughts and emotions by responding in flexible and life-enhancing ways.
Hello, I’m James! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience. I am particularly interested in supporting clients who struggle with chronic pain issues, anxiety, depression, and chronic stress. My approach is a combination of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Dialectical (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Biofeedback, and Supportive therapy. I believe individuals can stop struggling with complex thoughts and emotions by responding in flexible and life-enhancing ways.
(912) 400-0814 View (912) 400-0814
Photo of Lucy Dunning, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Lucy Dunning
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS, BC-TMC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30060  (Online Only)
Connecting with the right therapist is critical when starting your therapeutic journey. I provide free consultations to potential clients, ensuring they feel confident when committing to their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with patients and families who experience Chronic Illness and Pain. As a chronic illness patient and therapist, I recognize the unique and personal journey clients experience. I understand the obstacles, stigma, and barriers my clients face as they work on building their quality of life.
Connecting with the right therapist is critical when starting your therapeutic journey. I provide free consultations to potential clients, ensuring they feel confident when committing to their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with patients and families who experience Chronic Illness and Pain. As a chronic illness patient and therapist, I recognize the unique and personal journey clients experience. I understand the obstacles, stigma, and barriers my clients face as they work on building their quality of life.
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Photo of Kathleen C. Dart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pickens County, GA
Kathleen C. Dart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, PsyD, CCTP
Verified Verified
Winterville, GA 30683  (Online Only)
I am a clinical social worker licensed in Georgia and Michigan. I am also an ACSW from the National Association of Social Workers. I draw from 40+ years of personal experiences, career experiences, and education to assist others with their life journey. I have parented biological, step, and foster children. I have extensive experience with hospice and bereavement in my career and personal experiences. I offer comprehensive counseling services, specializing in grief and loss for adults and the elderly. I can assist with difficult life transitions, changes in relationships, advocacy, chronic illness, terminal illness and end of life.
I am a clinical social worker licensed in Georgia and Michigan. I am also an ACSW from the National Association of Social Workers. I draw from 40+ years of personal experiences, career experiences, and education to assist others with their life journey. I have parented biological, step, and foster children. I have extensive experience with hospice and bereavement in my career and personal experiences. I offer comprehensive counseling services, specializing in grief and loss for adults and the elderly. I can assist with difficult life transitions, changes in relationships, advocacy, chronic illness, terminal illness and end of life.
(706) 222-3398 View (706) 222-3398
Photo of Harvest Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Harvest Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Our clients come to us feeling overwhelmed by their personal pain and experiences and feel misunderstood.
Immediate Availability! Have you ever experienced something that was severely distressing and emotionally overwhelming? Those experiences cause problems in your relationships, work, school, and self-esteem. You no longer feel like you can trust yourself or the world around you. Let us help you get back into the driving seat of your life.
Our clients come to us feeling overwhelmed by their personal pain and experiences and feel misunderstood.
Immediate Availability! Have you ever experienced something that was severely distressing and emotionally overwhelming? Those experiences cause problems in your relationships, work, school, and self-esteem. You no longer feel like you can trust yourself or the world around you. Let us help you get back into the driving seat of your life.
(404) 476-6622 View (404) 476-6622
Photo of Angela R. Bethea-Walsh, Psychologist in Pickens County, GA
Angela R. Bethea-Walsh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30328
I specialize in evidence-based, culturally-sensitive interventions to treat substance use problems, depression, anxiety, fertility concerns, weight loss, chronic pain management, cultural stress and performance anxiety.
Change can be so difficult, uncomfortable, and even painful. You've tried to make a difference in your life, but without the results you want. Maybe you've stalled for too long in making a life-changing decision. You wonder, "What's wrong with me? I haven't changed yet!" Nothing is wrong with you. I use evidenced-based treatments with a team approach to help people cross the bridge to the life they want. My practice is in "The Queen Building" at The Concourse Corporate Center in the Perimeter area of Atlanta near GA-400 and I-285.
I specialize in evidence-based, culturally-sensitive interventions to treat substance use problems, depression, anxiety, fertility concerns, weight loss, chronic pain management, cultural stress and performance anxiety.
Change can be so difficult, uncomfortable, and even painful. You've tried to make a difference in your life, but without the results you want. Maybe you've stalled for too long in making a life-changing decision. You wonder, "What's wrong with me? I haven't changed yet!" Nothing is wrong with you. I use evidenced-based treatments with a team approach to help people cross the bridge to the life they want. My practice is in "The Queen Building" at The Concourse Corporate Center in the Perimeter area of Atlanta near GA-400 and I-285.
(404) 975-4042 View (404) 975-4042

See more therapy options for Pickens County

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.