Chronic Pain Therapists in Acton, MA
Lara Birk
PhD
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a certified pain coach trained in Pain Reprocessing Therapy, the Curable curriculum on pain neuroscience, Emotional Awareness & Expression Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Health & Wellness Coaching, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. I teach clients evidence-based tools emerging from cutting-edge pain neuroscience so that they can learn to calm their own nervous systems, and subsequently, their own pain. I know firsthand the profound healing power of mindbody medicine: after decades disempowered by pain, I got my life back, only better. I am here to help empower others so they too can reclaim lives of meaning & joy.
I am a certified pain coach trained in Pain Reprocessing Therapy, the Curable curriculum on pain neuroscience, Emotional Awareness & Expression Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Health & Wellness Coaching, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. I teach clients evidence-based tools emerging from cutting-edge pain neuroscience so that they can learn to calm their own nervous systems, and subsequently, their own pain. I know firsthand the profound healing power of mindbody medicine: after decades disempowered by pain, I got my life back, only better. I am here to help empower others so they too can reclaim lives of meaning & joy.
The Stress Reduction Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
I have advanced training in treating chronic pain.
I am an experienced, caring and active therapist committed to helping people move towards change. Creating a trusting and safe relationship is a crucial first step and I aim to develop a comfortable and positive rapport. I have a lot of skills and effective approaches and will create an individualized treatment plan to best address your issues. I work with adults and teenagers with a variety of problems. Some of my work is short-term, targeting specific symptoms such as headaches or anxiety. Other clients benefit from more on-going exploration to address such problems as relationship difficulties or self-esteem issues.
I have advanced training in treating chronic pain.
I am an experienced, caring and active therapist committed to helping people move towards change. Creating a trusting and safe relationship is a crucial first step and I aim to develop a comfortable and positive rapport. I have a lot of skills and effective approaches and will create an individualized treatment plan to best address your issues. I work with adults and teenagers with a variety of problems. Some of my work is short-term, targeting specific symptoms such as headaches or anxiety. Other clients benefit from more on-going exploration to address such problems as relationship difficulties or self-esteem issues.
Judith Weiler Psychotherapist
EMDR, REIKI, EFT
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720 (Online Only)
Tired of Talk Therapy? Bored with Behaviorism? Sick of being Stuck?
There are ways to end your discomfort. You can make friends with your pain, move through it and thrive, like the Phoenix rising from the ashes. With a wise and loving guide, you can find your way through your life story and beyond it, into health.
By opening to emotions that have been stuck in your body your whole life you come to a peaceful place within. You are already loved and forgiven. You can release your pain and shame, and befriend yourself. Judith Weiler can help.
Tired of Talk Therapy? Bored with Behaviorism? Sick of being Stuck?
There are ways to end your discomfort. You can make friends with your pain, move through it and thrive, like the Phoenix rising from the ashes. With a wise and loving guide, you can find your way through your life story and beyond it, into health.
By opening to emotions that have been stuck in your body your whole life you come to a peaceful place within. You are already loved and forgiven. You can release your pain and shame, and befriend yourself. Judith Weiler can help.
Virginia Bradley Hines
Counselor, PA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01718
Offering a compassionate, safe place in which you can explore current life challenges that may be difficult to face alone. Relationship conflicts, separations, loss, job changes, eating problems and other addictions, medical illness, mid-life and other transitions often require working in partnership with someone who can help you find your own inner resources to move forward in your life. I have thirty-six years of experience as a medical practitioner working with diverse populations, including college students, young, middle age and older adults. I bring that experience to my psychotherapy work, recognizing the whole person, mind, body and spirit.
Offering a compassionate, safe place in which you can explore current life challenges that may be difficult to face alone. Relationship conflicts, separations, loss, job changes, eating problems and other addictions, medical illness, mid-life and other transitions often require working in partnership with someone who can help you find your own inner resources to move forward in your life. I have thirty-six years of experience as a medical practitioner working with diverse populations, including college students, young, middle age and older adults. I bring that experience to my psychotherapy work, recognizing the whole person, mind, body and spirit.
Lara Harris-David
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
If there is one thing we can count on in life is change--expected or unexpected; wanted or unwanted. Perhaps it is a loss, a difficult transition, a new diagnosis, chronic pain, becoming a caregiver, parenting a child with a disability--it could be anything that significantly alters your life plans, your relationships, expectations, sense of self, and day-to-day functioning. People often experience depression, anxiety, relational tension, and feel overwhelmed when faced with a challenging life issue, whether the challenge is short or long-term.
If there is one thing we can count on in life is change--expected or unexpected; wanted or unwanted. Perhaps it is a loss, a difficult transition, a new diagnosis, chronic pain, becoming a caregiver, parenting a child with a disability--it could be anything that significantly alters your life plans, your relationships, expectations, sense of self, and day-to-day functioning. People often experience depression, anxiety, relational tension, and feel overwhelmed when faced with a challenging life issue, whether the challenge is short or long-term.
Katherine Arno
Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As someone with autoimmune issues, I have sought training to enhance my work helping others in coping with chronic illness & disabilities.
Anyone who has flown in an airplane knows the instruction to "put on your own oxygen mask before helping others" and that advice can be applied broadly to general life, but it's difficult to know what that looks like! If you want to learn more about how to balance your own needs/wants/self-care with the demands of fast paced daily life and family needs, we can figure out what "putting on your mask first" would be for your life. Whatever the problem, if you need more calm moments throughout your day, less conflict in your parenting, or ways to reduce stress for improved sleep/anxiety/depression, we can find solutions together.
As someone with autoimmune issues, I have sought training to enhance my work helping others in coping with chronic illness & disabilities.
Anyone who has flown in an airplane knows the instruction to "put on your own oxygen mask before helping others" and that advice can be applied broadly to general life, but it's difficult to know what that looks like! If you want to learn more about how to balance your own needs/wants/self-care with the demands of fast paced daily life and family needs, we can figure out what "putting on your mask first" would be for your life. Whatever the problem, if you need more calm moments throughout your day, less conflict in your parenting, or ways to reduce stress for improved sleep/anxiety/depression, we can find solutions together.
Rosanna M Casavecchia
Occupational Therapist, OTR/L, MT, CEAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
My background and 25 year experience have demonstrated success in supporting clients who experience physical/emotional pain and reduced functional independence.
To establish a relationship with a therapist takes time and can be rewarding when you are able to build trust, knowing you are able to confide and share your perspective, your story. This process allows the individual the opportunity to gain clarity in a setting that is confidential and accepting. All too often emotional/physical pain can have a significant impact on our ability to remain independent, self-reliant, engaged in everyday tasks and life roles at level of independence that is rewarding to oneself and those they care for. As an Occupational Therapist with a background in behavioral health, I take a holistic approach.
My background and 25 year experience have demonstrated success in supporting clients who experience physical/emotional pain and reduced functional independence.
To establish a relationship with a therapist takes time and can be rewarding when you are able to build trust, knowing you are able to confide and share your perspective, your story. This process allows the individual the opportunity to gain clarity in a setting that is confidential and accepting. All too often emotional/physical pain can have a significant impact on our ability to remain independent, self-reliant, engaged in everyday tasks and life roles at level of independence that is rewarding to oneself and those they care for. As an Occupational Therapist with a background in behavioral health, I take a holistic approach.
Eileen English
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01718 (Online Only)
I have several decades of experience providing therapy to people from many walks of life. My overall goal is to provide you with the opportunity to be heard, so that you can move forward with more joy and less pain. You may feel fragmented and want to heal, or out of sorts and want to sort it out. Perhaps you want to achieve a sense of wellness and well-being. It is my honor to build trust at your pace, so that we can walk together in partnership on this journey. We will work to allow your strengths, your sorrows and your joys to build toward inner wholeness with courage, self compassion and clarity.
I have several decades of experience providing therapy to people from many walks of life. My overall goal is to provide you with the opportunity to be heard, so that you can move forward with more joy and less pain. You may feel fragmented and want to heal, or out of sorts and want to sort it out. Perhaps you want to achieve a sense of wellness and well-being. It is my honor to build trust at your pace, so that we can walk together in partnership on this journey. We will work to allow your strengths, your sorrows and your joys to build toward inner wholeness with courage, self compassion and clarity.
Fred Gerhard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Online Webcam counseling, or In-Office counseling, my approach to helping people is to clearly understand each person's way of thinking, feeling, understanding, and living - their unique personal psychology - and to tailor an effective method of helping to the individual, their strengths and their needs. Much of my life's enjoyment comes from helping people live happier, more fulfilling lives. In working with me as your counselor or life coach, you can expect someone who listens with a caring and empathic attitude - someone who will provide expert and effective feedback to help you reach your goals for a satisfying and joyful life!
Online Webcam counseling, or In-Office counseling, my approach to helping people is to clearly understand each person's way of thinking, feeling, understanding, and living - their unique personal psychology - and to tailor an effective method of helping to the individual, their strengths and their needs. Much of my life's enjoyment comes from helping people live happier, more fulfilling lives. In working with me as your counselor or life coach, you can expect someone who listens with a caring and empathic attitude - someone who will provide expert and effective feedback to help you reach your goals for a satisfying and joyful life!
Eric Schlesinger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
Online booking currently available on my website (listed under my profile picture). While I am comfortable working with several presentations, my ideal client is looking for support in managing anxiety or OCD symptoms which have been creating a negative impact on their day-to-day living. I am comfortable working with all age groups including children and adolescents. I am a BTTI graduate through the International OCD Foundation.
Online booking currently available on my website (listed under my profile picture). While I am comfortable working with several presentations, my ideal client is looking for support in managing anxiety or OCD symptoms which have been creating a negative impact on their day-to-day living. I am comfortable working with all age groups including children and adolescents. I am a BTTI graduate through the International OCD Foundation.
Christine Smith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
My strength as a psychologist is to deeply attend to each client's emotions, thoughts, and life context. If you seek to participate in therapy with me, we will work together to create a judgment-free and safe space. In my practice of therapy, I effectively balance exploratory and supportive therapy with the latest research and evidence-based interventions. I provide psychotherapy for older adolescents (16+), adults, older adults, college students, professionals, military-affiliated individuals, and couples.
My strength as a psychologist is to deeply attend to each client's emotions, thoughts, and life context. If you seek to participate in therapy with me, we will work together to create a judgment-free and safe space. In my practice of therapy, I effectively balance exploratory and supportive therapy with the latest research and evidence-based interventions. I provide psychotherapy for older adolescents (16+), adults, older adults, college students, professionals, military-affiliated individuals, and couples.
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Lara Birk
Fred Gerhard
Eric Schlesinger
Betsy Wisch
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
"Life feels too hard, too disappointing, too scary. I feel like a terrible person." Feelings are normal. We all have them but sometimes we become overwhelmed and get stuck in patterns that repeat unsatisfying results over and over. Whether from trauma, grief, low self esteem, addictive behaviors or attachment disruptions, I can help you shift toward greater satisfaction and ease in your life by listening and working together to focus in on core areas that have become barriers to your well being.
"Life feels too hard, too disappointing, too scary. I feel like a terrible person." Feelings are normal. We all have them but sometimes we become overwhelmed and get stuck in patterns that repeat unsatisfying results over and over. Whether from trauma, grief, low self esteem, addictive behaviors or attachment disruptions, I can help you shift toward greater satisfaction and ease in your life by listening and working together to focus in on core areas that have become barriers to your well being.
John T. Chirban
Psychologist, PhD, ThD
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
I work with individuals, couples, and families to address concerns with relationships, identity, intimacy and sexuality, and spirituality, in addition to general psychological problems. My approach to therapy is active, relational, and result-oriented, encouraging clients take hold of their life and find the meaning that life holds for them. I have served as an instructor at Harvard Medical School and Psychologist at the Cambridge Health Alliance for more than 25 years. And have been serving on the Advisory Board of the Dr. Phil Show, since its inception. (See drchirban.com and swampscottpsychologicalassociates.com)
I work with individuals, couples, and families to address concerns with relationships, identity, intimacy and sexuality, and spirituality, in addition to general psychological problems. My approach to therapy is active, relational, and result-oriented, encouraging clients take hold of their life and find the meaning that life holds for them. I have served as an instructor at Harvard Medical School and Psychologist at the Cambridge Health Alliance for more than 25 years. And have been serving on the Advisory Board of the Dr. Phil Show, since its inception. (See drchirban.com and swampscottpsychologicalassociates.com)
Mary Calabrese
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01718
Waitlist for new clients
Mary Calabrese is an experienced clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist practicing in Concord, Massachusetts. She conducts neuropsychological evaluations through testing of cognitive and learning issues such as ADHD and dyslexia. She also provides guidance for parents struggling to connect with their children. She takes a warm, problem solving approach to you and your concerns. Her goal is to identify blocks you put in your way, provide the tools to take control of your own life, and develop lifelong strategies to foster your independence. Adults, college students, adolescents, and children are welcome.
Mary Calabrese is an experienced clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist practicing in Concord, Massachusetts. She conducts neuropsychological evaluations through testing of cognitive and learning issues such as ADHD and dyslexia. She also provides guidance for parents struggling to connect with their children. She takes a warm, problem solving approach to you and your concerns. Her goal is to identify blocks you put in your way, provide the tools to take control of your own life, and develop lifelong strategies to foster your independence. Adults, college students, adolescents, and children are welcome.
Heather O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to making progress in therapy. I strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental space for us to begin our work together. I am an active therapist and will work collaboratively with you to make therapy goals, learn and practice new coping skills, and solve problems. I am particularly passionate about working with pregnant and postpartum caregivers and caregivers of children with developmental challenges. Other areas of interest and expertise are: anxiety, depression, adoption, relationship stress, trauma, and parenting.
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to making progress in therapy. I strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental space for us to begin our work together. I am an active therapist and will work collaboratively with you to make therapy goals, learn and practice new coping skills, and solve problems. I am particularly passionate about working with pregnant and postpartum caregivers and caregivers of children with developmental challenges. Other areas of interest and expertise are: anxiety, depression, adoption, relationship stress, trauma, and parenting.
Leah Reece
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720 (Online Only)
UPDATE 1/25/24: Currently accepting new patients! I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults coping with acute or chronic medical conditions, anxiety, depression, adjustment concerns, and overall life stressors. I believe in empowering individuals to recognize their own strengths and resilience, while building a life of passion and purpose. I meet individuals with kindness, curiosity, empathy, and respect to provide a space in which they feel comfortable exploring their experiences, building confidence, and learning skills for a lifetime of growth.
UPDATE 1/25/24: Currently accepting new patients! I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults coping with acute or chronic medical conditions, anxiety, depression, adjustment concerns, and overall life stressors. I believe in empowering individuals to recognize their own strengths and resilience, while building a life of passion and purpose. I meet individuals with kindness, curiosity, empathy, and respect to provide a space in which they feel comfortable exploring their experiences, building confidence, and learning skills for a lifetime of growth.
Karen Daniels
Counselor, LMHC, RN
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01718
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel that you are stuck, that you have been unable to change your behavior or develop the kinds of relationships you really want in your life? In therapy you can discover that change is possible, pain and challenges are inevitable, but suffering is optional. Within a safe and non judgmental relationship you can explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, and gain insights as well as strategies to make changes.
Do you feel that you are stuck, that you have been unable to change your behavior or develop the kinds of relationships you really want in your life? In therapy you can discover that change is possible, pain and challenges are inevitable, but suffering is optional. Within a safe and non judgmental relationship you can explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, and gain insights as well as strategies to make changes.
Amy L Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have been in private practice for over 30 years and am experienced in working with clients who suffer from a wide range of issues including traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain and relationship problems.
I strive to help people find a more comfortable and richer relationship with themselves and the world around them. Drawing upon many years of clinical experience and my own personal journey, I assist clients to address their relationship difficulties, internal critics and stuck patterns of behavior with curiosity and compassion. Clients discover the energy within themselves to approach the world with less fear and more playfulness. My priority is always to create a safe, supportive environment. I enjoy getting to know my clients and am very grateful that I get to do the work I do.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years and am experienced in working with clients who suffer from a wide range of issues including traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain and relationship problems.
I strive to help people find a more comfortable and richer relationship with themselves and the world around them. Drawing upon many years of clinical experience and my own personal journey, I assist clients to address their relationship difficulties, internal critics and stuck patterns of behavior with curiosity and compassion. Clients discover the energy within themselves to approach the world with less fear and more playfulness. My priority is always to create a safe, supportive environment. I enjoy getting to know my clients and am very grateful that I get to do the work I do.
Kathleen McCarthy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CADCII
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
Not accepting new clients
Need help dealing with some of life's challenges? Taking that first step to call can be the hardest but the most rewarding in the end. I can help you explore options to live a healthier lifestyle, learn effective skills, and build upon existing strengths to heal and feel better. I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, anger management, grief and problems related to school, work, parenting and relationships. I hold an advanced certification in drug and alcohol counseling and specialize in working with survivors of domestic violence. Please call or email to inquire if I am accepting new clients.
Need help dealing with some of life's challenges? Taking that first step to call can be the hardest but the most rewarding in the end. I can help you explore options to live a healthier lifestyle, learn effective skills, and build upon existing strengths to heal and feel better. I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, anger management, grief and problems related to school, work, parenting and relationships. I hold an advanced certification in drug and alcohol counseling and specialize in working with survivors of domestic violence. Please call or email to inquire if I am accepting new clients.
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Marvin Lew
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Boxborough, MA 01719 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I'm a Board Certified Psychologist who brings 35 years of experience in Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies to adults in Metro West. My practice uses principles and techniques supported by research in cognitive and behavioral psychology and have my diplomate from the American Board of Professional Psychology. I frequently use compassionate therapies including Mindfulness techniques for managing attention, depression, anxiety as well as other problems. My practice is clinically tailored to each person in a warm empathic manner and I recognize that being a good listener allows me to better help my patients.
I'm a Board Certified Psychologist who brings 35 years of experience in Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies to adults in Metro West. My practice uses principles and techniques supported by research in cognitive and behavioral psychology and have my diplomate from the American Board of Professional Psychology. I frequently use compassionate therapies including Mindfulness techniques for managing attention, depression, anxiety as well as other problems. My practice is clinically tailored to each person in a warm empathic manner and I recognize that being a good listener allows me to better help my patients.
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Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Acton
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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.