Photo of Holly Tomasello, MS, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Holly Tomasello
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsville, NY 14221
I offer ASL interpreting services, EMDR with an IFS focus, and wellness counseling at Elite Spine and Extremity Physical Therapy! I If you’ve experienced trauma and/or adversity, you may need support navigating the unpredictability's of life. I believe you have the inner strength to achieve your best sense of self. I strive to guide you toward peace and healing by6 implementing EMDR, incorporating dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), crisis counseling, as well as addressing chronic pain, grief, and loss. I value the therapeutic relationship, diversity, acceptance, personal strengths, and instilling hope.
I offer ASL interpreting services, EMDR with an IFS focus, and wellness counseling at Elite Spine and Extremity Physical Therapy! I If you’ve experienced trauma and/or adversity, you may need support navigating the unpredictability's of life. I believe you have the inner strength to achieve your best sense of self. I strive to guide you toward peace and healing by6 implementing EMDR, incorporating dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), crisis counseling, as well as addressing chronic pain, grief, and loss. I value the therapeutic relationship, diversity, acceptance, personal strengths, and instilling hope.
(716) 714-0097 View (716) 714-0097
Photo of Matthew Spieler, PhD, Psychologist
Matthew Spieler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
I approach my work with a deep respect for each person's unique and complex life experience and a belief that therapy offers a space in which trauma and emotional pain can be healed and longstanding patterns that limit a person's potential can be changed.
The therapy I practice aims not only to help people find relief from the acute suffering that often brings them into treatment, but also to develop a deep knowledge of one’s inner world and the emotional security needed to approach daily living with greater openness, resilience, and authenticity. Collaboratively, we work to understand the meaning of symptoms and what they communicate about past traumas as well as the needs and desires that have gone unfulfilled and often unacknowledged.
I approach my work with a deep respect for each person's unique and complex life experience and a belief that therapy offers a space in which trauma and emotional pain can be healed and longstanding patterns that limit a person's potential can be changed.
The therapy I practice aims not only to help people find relief from the acute suffering that often brings them into treatment, but also to develop a deep knowledge of one’s inner world and the emotional security needed to approach daily living with greater openness, resilience, and authenticity. Collaboratively, we work to understand the meaning of symptoms and what they communicate about past traumas as well as the needs and desires that have gone unfulfilled and often unacknowledged.
(929) 255-3748 View (929) 255-3748
Photo of Kathleen DiMartino, LMSW
Kathleen DiMartino
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I work with individuals who suffer from physical, mental, and emotional pain.
Life can be both painful and challenging, but that does not mean that you have to go through it alone. Therapy is often a great place to start (or continue) when we are in need of some extra support.
I work with individuals who suffer from physical, mental, and emotional pain.
Life can be both painful and challenging, but that does not mean that you have to go through it alone. Therapy is often a great place to start (or continue) when we are in need of some extra support.
(631) 605-7205 View (631) 605-7205
Photo of Sherine Sedigh, MS, MHC-LP
Sherine Sedigh
MS, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Hauppauge, NY 11788  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Have you ever felt like there's no one to talk to without feeling judged? Life can be extremely overwhelming at times. But I want you to remember that you don't have to face these challenges alone. As a therapist, my goal is to support you so that you can navigate through these difficult times and truly believe that you have the strength to overcome anything. Whether it's anxiety, low self-esteem, traumatic experiences, chronic illness, or chronic pain, I'm here to offer you my full support with compassion and empathy.
Have you ever felt like there's no one to talk to without feeling judged? Life can be extremely overwhelming at times. But I want you to remember that you don't have to face these challenges alone. As a therapist, my goal is to support you so that you can navigate through these difficult times and truly believe that you have the strength to overcome anything. Whether it's anxiety, low self-esteem, traumatic experiences, chronic illness, or chronic pain, I'm here to offer you my full support with compassion and empathy.
(631) 817-3029 View (631) 817-3029
Photo of Cindy Perlin, LCSW, BCB, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cindy Perlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCB
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Delmar, NY 12054
Please also see my Alternative Pain Treatment Directory at www.
I work with clients with a wide variety of mental and physical conditions who want to optimize their emotional and physical well-being. This includes people of all ages who have anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, chronic pain and chronic physical conditions that may be exacerbated by stress.
Please also see my Alternative Pain Treatment Directory at www.
I work with clients with a wide variety of mental and physical conditions who want to optimize their emotional and physical well-being. This includes people of all ages who have anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, chronic pain and chronic physical conditions that may be exacerbated by stress.
(518) 347-9481 View (518) 347-9481
Photo of Fran Dalis, PsyD, LMSW, RPT-S, Psychologist
Fran Dalis
Psychologist, PsyD, LMSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Norwich, NY 11732
I am a Clinical Psychologist and an ally who works with children, adolescents, and their families. I provide a neutral space for young people to express their needs and help families develop adaptive communication skills. As a diagnostician, I provide psychological testing for gifted students and those with special needs who require school accommodations. My approach is to employ integrative, evidence-based interventions, including CBT, ACT, and Psychodynamic therapy. Therapeutic populations include autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ identity formation, chronic pain management, depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and an ally who works with children, adolescents, and their families. I provide a neutral space for young people to express their needs and help families develop adaptive communication skills. As a diagnostician, I provide psychological testing for gifted students and those with special needs who require school accommodations. My approach is to employ integrative, evidence-based interventions, including CBT, ACT, and Psychodynamic therapy. Therapeutic populations include autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ identity formation, chronic pain management, depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues.
(516) 614-3464 View (516) 614-3464
Photo of Samantha McGuire, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha McGuire
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
During session, I work with individuals to understand how to listen more empathetically to their pain.
Do you struggle with chronic pain and can't find the motivation to get out of bed? Maybe each day things are feeling more and more difficult to find any joy in. Depression and chronic pain go hand-in-hand, holding you down. It can feel incredibly heavy and debilitating each day. Often the advice you get is something like, "try harder" or "just get over it." You know all too well, it is just not that simple. Fighting your way out of a depressive episode exacerbated by chronic pain is NOT easy, but I promise you, it is possible!
During session, I work with individuals to understand how to listen more empathetically to their pain.
Do you struggle with chronic pain and can't find the motivation to get out of bed? Maybe each day things are feeling more and more difficult to find any joy in. Depression and chronic pain go hand-in-hand, holding you down. It can feel incredibly heavy and debilitating each day. Often the advice you get is something like, "try harder" or "just get over it." You know all too well, it is just not that simple. Fighting your way out of a depressive episode exacerbated by chronic pain is NOT easy, but I promise you, it is possible!
(516) 908-8531 View (516) 908-8531
Photo of Amy Begel, LCSW, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Begel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
New York, NY 10011
I am a long-time teacher in Family Medicine, and have developed a specialty in treating adults and children who suffer from unexplained, troubling physical symptoms, and those suffering from the emotional effects of physical illness.
Nearly thirty years ago I was began my family therapy training with one of the most highly-regarded figures in the field, Dr. Salvador Minuchin. Since then, I have worked with couples reeling from affairs, or on the verge of divorce, people suffering from anxiety or depression, and children with "acting out" behavior or identified as having ADHD. My long experience as a family therapist has only deepened my appreciation for the trials and triumphs of the human condition. I work relatively briefly, and often successfully, with those who have tried other therapies, without improvement.
I am a long-time teacher in Family Medicine, and have developed a specialty in treating adults and children who suffer from unexplained, troubling physical symptoms, and those suffering from the emotional effects of physical illness.
Nearly thirty years ago I was began my family therapy training with one of the most highly-regarded figures in the field, Dr. Salvador Minuchin. Since then, I have worked with couples reeling from affairs, or on the verge of divorce, people suffering from anxiety or depression, and children with "acting out" behavior or identified as having ADHD. My long experience as a family therapist has only deepened my appreciation for the trials and triumphs of the human condition. I work relatively briefly, and often successfully, with those who have tried other therapies, without improvement.
(646) 583-2453 View (646) 583-2453
Photo of Marlene L Levy, PhD, LCSW, DAAPM, CCBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marlene L Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, DAAPM, CCBT
Verified Verified
Clinical Hypnosis, plus appropriate therapies for Anxiety issues/ Panic disorder, Pain Management, Weight Issues, Depression, Marriage, Family, Adolescent , Divorce, and remarriage.
Private practice 30 + years.. Anxiety, Depression, pain management , weight issues and marriage and family issues. I use Clinical Hypnosis along with psychotherapy. CBT, EFT, are among the various treatments designed for each patient individually.. *Clinical hypnosis is used when appropriate producing the most positive treatment results! I look forward to helping you, as I have helped so many over the years. President of the New York Society of Clinical Hypnosis [NYSCH.ORG], Consultant: ASCH, Diplomate :DAAPM Diplomate The American Academy of Pain Management; CCBT-Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist.
Clinical Hypnosis, plus appropriate therapies for Anxiety issues/ Panic disorder, Pain Management, Weight Issues, Depression, Marriage, Family, Adolescent , Divorce, and remarriage.
Private practice 30 + years.. Anxiety, Depression, pain management , weight issues and marriage and family issues. I use Clinical Hypnosis along with psychotherapy. CBT, EFT, are among the various treatments designed for each patient individually.. *Clinical hypnosis is used when appropriate producing the most positive treatment results! I look forward to helping you, as I have helped so many over the years. President of the New York Society of Clinical Hypnosis [NYSCH.ORG], Consultant: ASCH, Diplomate :DAAPM Diplomate The American Academy of Pain Management; CCBT-Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist.
(516) 986-3258 View (516) 986-3258
Photo of Linda Garcia-Rose - Linda Garcia-Rose & Associates, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Garcia-Rose & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10007
We are a Practice of 6 highly talented Psychotherapists. We believe in real, practical Transformative Psychotherapy focusing on more than just symptoms, helping each client live his/her happiest life through Positive Psychology. We use Mindfulness Techniques to help understand your thoughts and feelings and how these manifest in your body: yesterday, today and projecting into the future. Our team has deep training and experience in a wide range of specialties: Trauma and PTSD, Eating Disorders, Panic Attacks, Sex Therapy, Bio Feedback, Chronic Pain, IVF/Surrogacy, Spirituality, LGBTQA, Death/Dying/Hospice, and Business Coaching. We work with Children, Couples, Individuals and Families.
We are a Practice of 6 highly talented Psychotherapists. We believe in real, practical Transformative Psychotherapy focusing on more than just symptoms, helping each client live his/her happiest life through Positive Psychology. We use Mindfulness Techniques to help understand your thoughts and feelings and how these manifest in your body: yesterday, today and projecting into the future. Our team has deep training and experience in a wide range of specialties: Trauma and PTSD, Eating Disorders, Panic Attacks, Sex Therapy, Bio Feedback, Chronic Pain, IVF/Surrogacy, Spirituality, LGBTQA, Death/Dying/Hospice, and Business Coaching. We work with Children, Couples, Individuals and Families.
(646) 362-8705 View (646) 362-8705
Photo of Jennifer Brown, MFA, RDT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFA, RDT
Verified Verified
Staten Island, NY 10312  (Online Only)
With a focus on diverse populations, addiction, and holistic pain management, I offer a unique blend of narradrama, music, and technology to help you reshape your narrative.
Are you seeking a therapist who empowers you to rewrite your own story? Imagine finding a space where your creativity thrives, guided by a therapist who understands the power of self-expression. I specialize in helping diverse clients – from survivors to adolescents – navigate their healing journeys. Using drama therapy, you become your own guide in reshaping your narrative, fostering supportive self-talk and self-image.
With a focus on diverse populations, addiction, and holistic pain management, I offer a unique blend of narradrama, music, and technology to help you reshape your narrative.
Are you seeking a therapist who empowers you to rewrite your own story? Imagine finding a space where your creativity thrives, guided by a therapist who understands the power of self-expression. I specialize in helping diverse clients – from survivors to adolescents – navigate their healing journeys. Using drama therapy, you become your own guide in reshaping your narrative, fostering supportive self-talk and self-image.
(929) 543-5823 View (929) 543-5823
Photo of Jeffrey T. Wentzel, PhD, Psychologist
Jeffrey T. Wentzel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
My specific areas of expertise include relationship problems, identity issues, anxiety, depression, and a range of psychophysiologic conditions-- chronic pain, GI issues, and hypertension--that can often benefit from improved self-awareness, more flexible and effective ways of coping with stress, and increased security and stability in one's relationships.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have worked extensively with individual adults, adolescents, and couples in New York City for more than 20 years. I work collaboratively with each of my clients to strike the right balance between providing relief in the short-term from the types of symptoms and difficult circumstances that may have led to an interest in psychotherapy, while also attempting to facilitate an ongoing process that promotes greater self-awareness and an increased sense of self-confidence in defining and achieving a more productive and satisfying life.
My specific areas of expertise include relationship problems, identity issues, anxiety, depression, and a range of psychophysiologic conditions-- chronic pain, GI issues, and hypertension--that can often benefit from improved self-awareness, more flexible and effective ways of coping with stress, and increased security and stability in one's relationships.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have worked extensively with individual adults, adolescents, and couples in New York City for more than 20 years. I work collaboratively with each of my clients to strike the right balance between providing relief in the short-term from the types of symptoms and difficult circumstances that may have led to an interest in psychotherapy, while also attempting to facilitate an ongoing process that promotes greater self-awareness and an increased sense of self-confidence in defining and achieving a more productive and satisfying life.
(646) 553-4203 View (646) 553-4203
Photo of Robert Meyers - NY Psychological Wellness, P.C., PsyD, Psychologist
NY Psychological Wellness, P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bayside, NY 11361
We understand that dealing with pain, sleep and/or emotional issues can be an overwhelming experience.
STOP SUFFERING! NY Psychological Wellness, PC offers specialized and innovative programs for those suffering from Chronic Pain, Insomnia and the many difficulties that sometimes accompany these problems such as anxiety and depression.
We understand that dealing with pain, sleep and/or emotional issues can be an overwhelming experience.
STOP SUFFERING! NY Psychological Wellness, PC offers specialized and innovative programs for those suffering from Chronic Pain, Insomnia and the many difficulties that sometimes accompany these problems such as anxiety and depression.
(347) 796-4579 View (347) 796-4579
Photo of Melanie R. Nevis, MA, LCAT, ACC
Melanie R. Nevis
Creative Arts Therapist, MA, LCAT, ACC
Not Verified Not Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11238  (Online Only)
I help people CHRONIC PAIN, STRESS OR ANXIETY who have had limited success in seeking help, with powerful leading edge mind- body and neuroscience approaches to heal and decrease symptoms.
Welcome! I know that finding the right therapist or coach can feel confusing or overwhelming. I offer a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your challenges and move towards fully embracing yourself and living the life you desire. My approach brings together Gestalt, Mind-Body Somatic approaches, and over 30 years of therapeutic work with children and adults. I have a passion and expertise for helping HIGHLY SENSITIVE PEOPLE understand and embrace both the gifts and challenges of their heightened receptivity, that can lead to overwhelm, overstimulation, and other challenges.
I help people CHRONIC PAIN, STRESS OR ANXIETY who have had limited success in seeking help, with powerful leading edge mind- body and neuroscience approaches to heal and decrease symptoms.
Welcome! I know that finding the right therapist or coach can feel confusing or overwhelming. I offer a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your challenges and move towards fully embracing yourself and living the life you desire. My approach brings together Gestalt, Mind-Body Somatic approaches, and over 30 years of therapeutic work with children and adults. I have a passion and expertise for helping HIGHLY SENSITIVE PEOPLE understand and embrace both the gifts and challenges of their heightened receptivity, that can lead to overwhelm, overstimulation, and other challenges.
(347) 407-8692 View (347) 407-8692
Photo of Danielle Bellis, LMHC, CASAC, Counselor
Danielle Bellis
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
Barton, NY 13734  (Online Only)
I have worked with trauma, depression and anxiety, chronic pain, as well as anger and just "life stuff".
An ideal client to me is someone who wants to improve their mental health and practice self care. Therapy not only can improve mental health, but it improves communication and helps the client gain insight into themselves. They may not know exactly what is causing them to feel so much depression, anxiety, anger and/or the multitude of emotions we humans feel. Therapy can help bring out what is inside, what is down deep. The ideal client is someone who is motivated, the rest will fall into place!
I have worked with trauma, depression and anxiety, chronic pain, as well as anger and just "life stuff".
An ideal client to me is someone who wants to improve their mental health and practice self care. Therapy not only can improve mental health, but it improves communication and helps the client gain insight into themselves. They may not know exactly what is causing them to feel so much depression, anxiety, anger and/or the multitude of emotions we humans feel. Therapy can help bring out what is inside, what is down deep. The ideal client is someone who is motivated, the rest will fall into place!
(607) 600-8993 View (607) 600-8993
Photo of Jaclyn Levine, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaclyn Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
My past experience includes working with people who have chronic and persistent mental illness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works to diagnose and treat adolescents, adults, children and families. My specialization is on chronic health conditions/ chronic pain. I have learned that people with "invisible illnesses" are often overlooked and misunderstood. My goal is to help people feel heard. Throughout my experience, I have learned that everyone needs and deserves a personalized approach to their treatment and recovery. I have found that this helps individuals tremendously with their treatment and I strive to provide that for you.
My past experience includes working with people who have chronic and persistent mental illness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works to diagnose and treat adolescents, adults, children and families. My specialization is on chronic health conditions/ chronic pain. I have learned that people with "invisible illnesses" are often overlooked and misunderstood. My goal is to help people feel heard. Throughout my experience, I have learned that everyone needs and deserves a personalized approach to their treatment and recovery. I have found that this helps individuals tremendously with their treatment and I strive to provide that for you.
(631) 291-4366 View (631) 291-4366
Photo of Meagan McCarthy Rivenburgh, CASAC, LMHC, Counselor
Meagan McCarthy Rivenburgh
Counselor, CASAC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My clients often tell me they seek therapy when beginning to question why their knowledge and hard work is not translating to increased life satisfaction. Some are finding the work-life balance lauded by media, family, friends, and colleagues to feel elusive. Others find quests for self-improvement are resulting in cycles of determined action followed by disappointment, self-doubt, and feelings of shame or inadequacy. Most want to live in a way that is aligned to their identities and values, but find this has often resulted in more pain. If any of these ring true to you- you are not alone, and your efforts have not been in vain.
My clients often tell me they seek therapy when beginning to question why their knowledge and hard work is not translating to increased life satisfaction. Some are finding the work-life balance lauded by media, family, friends, and colleagues to feel elusive. Others find quests for self-improvement are resulting in cycles of determined action followed by disappointment, self-doubt, and feelings of shame or inadequacy. Most want to live in a way that is aligned to their identities and values, but find this has often resulted in more pain. If any of these ring true to you- you are not alone, and your efforts have not been in vain.
(518) 306-1652 View (518) 306-1652
Photo of Dr. David M Castro, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. David M Castro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128
My focus is on helping others change painful patterns. I am a psychotherapist who values a close, focused type of listening. This is connected to an emphasis on the unique cultural, environmental, and psychological factors that contribute to current distress. I am currently accepting new patients, with evening and weekend hours available. Specialty areas include chronic pain conditions, addictions, and transition to college. If for whatever reason, during the initial free phone consult we discover that I am not a good match, I will work with you to find someone who is able to meet your needs.
My focus is on helping others change painful patterns. I am a psychotherapist who values a close, focused type of listening. This is connected to an emphasis on the unique cultural, environmental, and psychological factors that contribute to current distress. I am currently accepting new patients, with evening and weekend hours available. Specialty areas include chronic pain conditions, addictions, and transition to college. If for whatever reason, during the initial free phone consult we discover that I am not a good match, I will work with you to find someone who is able to meet your needs.
(917) 525-4940 View (917) 525-4940
Photo of Neil D Myers - Total Hypnosis, CHP
Total Hypnosis
CHP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
It is especially effective for conditions that have an emotional base or aspect, such as Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, mood problems, depression, compulsions, food and environmental sensitivities, anger, and stress.
My practice is about solving problems, from relatively simple ones like smoking, weight control, or sleep issues, to deeper ones like fears and phobias, and, complex, chronic illnesses that almost invariably have multi-faceted emotional roots. Of course, chronic illnesses can rarely be dealt with as easily and quickly as, say, insomnia, smoking cessation, teeth grinding, or TMJ problems. Habits and simple fears and phobias mostly respond very well to the application of skilled Direct-Suggestion hypnosis. However, Healing Hypnosis, my specialty, is a more intensive and deeper process. That aims to get to the root of problems.
It is especially effective for conditions that have an emotional base or aspect, such as Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, mood problems, depression, compulsions, food and environmental sensitivities, anger, and stress.
My practice is about solving problems, from relatively simple ones like smoking, weight control, or sleep issues, to deeper ones like fears and phobias, and, complex, chronic illnesses that almost invariably have multi-faceted emotional roots. Of course, chronic illnesses can rarely be dealt with as easily and quickly as, say, insomnia, smoking cessation, teeth grinding, or TMJ problems. Habits and simple fears and phobias mostly respond very well to the application of skilled Direct-Suggestion hypnosis. However, Healing Hypnosis, my specialty, is a more intensive and deeper process. That aims to get to the root of problems.
(914) 934-4266 View (914) 934-4266
Photo of Lindsay Weber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Weber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
Feeling overwhelmed by the rollercoaster of adolescence and young adulthood, especially with chronic illness, is more common than you might think. Therapy isn't just about tackling issues—it's about having someone by your side through tough times, helping you build confidence, and teaching you to advocate for yourself. With 8+ years of experience as a hospital social worker specializing in adolescent eating disorders, adult & pediatric organ transplant, & mental health, I’ve helped young people navigate the complexities of chronic illness, medical trauma, anxiety, depression, and the unique pressures that come with these experiences
Feeling overwhelmed by the rollercoaster of adolescence and young adulthood, especially with chronic illness, is more common than you might think. Therapy isn't just about tackling issues—it's about having someone by your side through tough times, helping you build confidence, and teaching you to advocate for yourself. With 8+ years of experience as a hospital social worker specializing in adolescent eating disorders, adult & pediatric organ transplant, & mental health, I’ve helped young people navigate the complexities of chronic illness, medical trauma, anxiety, depression, and the unique pressures that come with these experiences
(516) 518-3932 View (516) 518-3932
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Chronic Pain Therapists

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.