Chronic Pain Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Daniel G. Lyman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Daniel G. Lyman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Daniel G Lyman, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist and mental health coach specializing in anxiety, depression, chronic pain, sex & sexuality, and LGBTQ related issues. Daniel is the Executive Director of the Mind Body Therapy Center, headquartered in Portland, OR, but offering therapy and coaching world wide. With thousands of hours experience, Daniel's training and experience can help you reach your goals, including reducing anxiety, overcoming depression, eliminating chronic pain, and much more. He has led workshops and trainings in local colleges as well as guest lectured at the USC Graduate School of Social Work.
Daniel G Lyman, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist and mental health coach specializing in anxiety, depression, chronic pain, sex & sexuality, and LGBTQ related issues. Daniel is the Executive Director of the Mind Body Therapy Center, headquartered in Portland, OR, but offering therapy and coaching world wide. With thousands of hours experience, Daniel's training and experience can help you reach your goals, including reducing anxiety, overcoming depression, eliminating chronic pain, and much more. He has led workshops and trainings in local colleges as well as guest lectured at the USC Graduate School of Social Work.
(503) 300-2982 View (503) 300-2982
Photo of Stephen Boyd, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Stephen Boyd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in health psychology, treating conditions such as insomnia, chronic pain, tinnitus, and smoking cessation.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adults and adolescents with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and alcohol use. My approach is highly interpersonal and humanistic. This means that I adopt a compassionate and non-judgmental view with my clients, and strive to build a relationship of trust and understanding. I exclusively use evidenced-based treatments that have been thoroughly tested and found to be effective for improving mental health concerns. Together, we will develop new ways for you to cope with and resolve the issues that prompted you to seek care.
I have specialized training in health psychology, treating conditions such as insomnia, chronic pain, tinnitus, and smoking cessation.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adults and adolescents with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and alcohol use. My approach is highly interpersonal and humanistic. This means that I adopt a compassionate and non-judgmental view with my clients, and strive to build a relationship of trust and understanding. I exclusively use evidenced-based treatments that have been thoroughly tested and found to be effective for improving mental health concerns. Together, we will develop new ways for you to cope with and resolve the issues that prompted you to seek care.
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Photo of Jennifer Navarro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Jennifer Navarro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
The human condition is stressful for everyone right now. Healthcare providers, LGBTQ2SIA + and those with chronic pain/medical illness are feeling it more than ever. Depression, anxiety and trauma responses can be overlooked/minimized. What you are experiencing is real and you deserve the time, space and support to explore this. Are your thoughts, feelings and behaviors getting in the way of your relationships/work/goals/well-being? Are you taking better care of others than you are of yourself? Is it time to move beyond surviving and begin thriving? If so, perhaps it's time to reach out for a helping hand. All are welcome here.
The human condition is stressful for everyone right now. Healthcare providers, LGBTQ2SIA + and those with chronic pain/medical illness are feeling it more than ever. Depression, anxiety and trauma responses can be overlooked/minimized. What you are experiencing is real and you deserve the time, space and support to explore this. Are your thoughts, feelings and behaviors getting in the way of your relationships/work/goals/well-being? Are you taking better care of others than you are of yourself? Is it time to move beyond surviving and begin thriving? If so, perhaps it's time to reach out for a helping hand. All are welcome here.
(503) 868-2273 View (503) 868-2273
Photo of Melissa Ellsworth, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Melissa Ellsworth
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I work with individuals & couples struggling with chronic pain, sexual difficulties & relationship issues, gender identity and other LGBTQ+ issues, developmental trauma, attachment issues & faith transitions.
Do you ever feel stuck in a body that doesn't feel, act or look the way you want it to? Does it feel like your brain and body are out of sync? Whether it be chronic pain, sexual difficulties or gender incongruence - I'm here to help you get your mind and body back into alignment. When working with me, I will tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, and offer the tools and support you need to feel less pain, more sexual freedom and gender affirmation.
I work with individuals & couples struggling with chronic pain, sexual difficulties & relationship issues, gender identity and other LGBTQ+ issues, developmental trauma, attachment issues & faith transitions.
Do you ever feel stuck in a body that doesn't feel, act or look the way you want it to? Does it feel like your brain and body are out of sync? Whether it be chronic pain, sexual difficulties or gender incongruence - I'm here to help you get your mind and body back into alignment. When working with me, I will tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, and offer the tools and support you need to feel less pain, more sexual freedom and gender affirmation.
(971) 396-3205 View (971) 396-3205
Photo of Eden Baron-Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Eden Baron-Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
You came here because you have a desire to deepen your relationship with yourself and others, you feel stuck in patterns you hope to change, are processing trauma, or are looking to reclaim lost parts of yourself. You have come to the right place. Working with adults with childhood trauma/complex trauma, couples/relational systems, chronic pain/illness, and queer/trans/non-binary individuals and relationships, I create spaces for care and collaboration. I hope to assist you in building a bridge to yourself that unlocks your inner wisdom and weaves together the vast embroidery of stories, sensations, and emotions in your life.
You came here because you have a desire to deepen your relationship with yourself and others, you feel stuck in patterns you hope to change, are processing trauma, or are looking to reclaim lost parts of yourself. You have come to the right place. Working with adults with childhood trauma/complex trauma, couples/relational systems, chronic pain/illness, and queer/trans/non-binary individuals and relationships, I create spaces for care and collaboration. I hope to assist you in building a bridge to yourself that unlocks your inner wisdom and weaves together the vast embroidery of stories, sensations, and emotions in your life.
(971) 365-4866 View (971) 365-4866
Photo of Dr. Peter H. Addy, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Portland, OR
Dr. Peter H. Addy
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
I specialize in guiding psychedelic-curious individuals with chronic health issues to prepare with confidence and courage. My ideal client is someone who has been struggling with chronic health issues, like fibromyalgia, and is looking for a transformative experience to help them heal. They may feel overwhelmed by information about psychedelics and are unsure about the process, or may have lost hope after failed treatments.
I specialize in guiding psychedelic-curious individuals with chronic health issues to prepare with confidence and courage. My ideal client is someone who has been struggling with chronic health issues, like fibromyalgia, and is looking for a transformative experience to help them heal. They may feel overwhelmed by information about psychedelics and are unsure about the process, or may have lost hope after failed treatments.
(503) 773-6573 View (503) 773-6573
Photo of Rose Walker, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
Rose Walker
LPC Intern, PCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older, who are experiencing trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain and chronic illness.
My goal as a counselor is to assist you in your journey of living a more authentic and fulfilling life. I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older. My approach to counseling is person-centered, providing a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering space for you to explore the challenges and patterns preventing you from achieving your goals and to discover your unique path for spiritual, emotional, social, and mental wellness. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques, depending upon each individual’s needs, informed by CBT, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally-Focused Individual Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older, who are experiencing trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain and chronic illness.
My goal as a counselor is to assist you in your journey of living a more authentic and fulfilling life. I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older. My approach to counseling is person-centered, providing a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering space for you to explore the challenges and patterns preventing you from achieving your goals and to discover your unique path for spiritual, emotional, social, and mental wellness. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques, depending upon each individual’s needs, informed by CBT, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally-Focused Individual Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
(503) 855-6949 View (503) 855-6949
Photo of Dr. Aleksandra (Sasha) Soykin, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Dr. Aleksandra (Sasha) Soykin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Waitlist for new clients
I offer psychotherapy to adults (from college age to older adults) struggling with a variety of problems, including chronic pain, medical conditions, trauma, anxiety, grief, life transitions, and work/relationship difficulties.
I strongly believe that lasting change occurs in a safe and collaborative environment, and I know that making the decision to reach out to a psychologist and embark on a path towards change can be extremely difficult. I trust in the importance of finding a clinician who will be the right match for you, so please feel free to explore both my profile and website in order to find out more about me and the services that I offer. Please note: I offer virtual services to those residing in CA and OR, and I do NOT accept insurance at this time.
I offer psychotherapy to adults (from college age to older adults) struggling with a variety of problems, including chronic pain, medical conditions, trauma, anxiety, grief, life transitions, and work/relationship difficulties.
I strongly believe that lasting change occurs in a safe and collaborative environment, and I know that making the decision to reach out to a psychologist and embark on a path towards change can be extremely difficult. I trust in the importance of finding a clinician who will be the right match for you, so please feel free to explore both my profile and website in order to find out more about me and the services that I offer. Please note: I offer virtual services to those residing in CA and OR, and I do NOT accept insurance at this time.
(408) 556-9974 View (408) 556-9974
Photo of Alicia Ankenman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Alicia Ankenman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
I work with individuals suffering from trauma, chronic pain, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and various life transitions. I utilize Mindfulness-based and Somatic approaches to help clients cultivate mind-body awareness and create emotional well-being. Somatic Experiencing is one of the approaches that is very effective in helping people overcome the effects of accumulated, chronic stress. It integrates neuroscience, attachment theory and mindfulness to help you restore a sense of balance to your emotional, intellectual, physical, and spiritual life.
I work with individuals suffering from trauma, chronic pain, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and various life transitions. I utilize Mindfulness-based and Somatic approaches to help clients cultivate mind-body awareness and create emotional well-being. Somatic Experiencing is one of the approaches that is very effective in helping people overcome the effects of accumulated, chronic stress. It integrates neuroscience, attachment theory and mindfulness to help you restore a sense of balance to your emotional, intellectual, physical, and spiritual life.
(503) 451-6346 View (503) 451-6346
Photo of Complete Counseling, Counselor in Portland, OR
Complete Counseling
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211
The focus of Complete Counseling is working with general mental health issues. Feel free to look through our variety of counselors with different specialties that will meet your need. We also take a wide variety of insurances. Our primary focus is working with athletes and other high performers, but we also work with families, adults and clients that deal with medical issues or chronic pain. We want our clients to feel heard and gain the skills to make a change and re-enter their life with confidence.
The focus of Complete Counseling is working with general mental health issues. Feel free to look through our variety of counselors with different specialties that will meet your need. We also take a wide variety of insurances. Our primary focus is working with athletes and other high performers, but we also work with families, adults and clients that deal with medical issues or chronic pain. We want our clients to feel heard and gain the skills to make a change and re-enter their life with confidence.
(360) 646-2335 View (360) 646-2335
Photo of Bob Ross, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Bob Ross, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225
Are you struggling with painful emotions, troubling thoughts, unwanted behaviors, relationship difficulties, or disabling physical conditions like chronic pain? Therapy can help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified-Clinical Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Social Worker, with decades of counseling experience. I offer individual and group therapy, psycho-education and consulting for adults experiencing mental health, substance abuse, or chronic health difficulties. I collaborate with you, building on your strengths, to help you explore new insights, skills and solutions. My approach is holistic, compassionate, non-judgmental, and integrative. I would be honored to join your healing journey.
Are you struggling with painful emotions, troubling thoughts, unwanted behaviors, relationship difficulties, or disabling physical conditions like chronic pain? Therapy can help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified-Clinical Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Social Worker, with decades of counseling experience. I offer individual and group therapy, psycho-education and consulting for adults experiencing mental health, substance abuse, or chronic health difficulties. I collaborate with you, building on your strengths, to help you explore new insights, skills and solutions. My approach is holistic, compassionate, non-judgmental, and integrative. I would be honored to join your healing journey.
(971) 983-8080 View (971) 983-8080
Photo of Lily Armstrong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Lily Armstrong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97230
I focus on the somatic experience, mindfulness practices, persistent pain, anxiety, depression, insomnia issues, and transformative healing.
I am passionate about helping people change by finding deeper joy in their lives. If you seek healing, growth, a process through conflict or shifting painful patterns, if you desire to pursue wellness, spiritual connection and mind body integration, if you are curious about recovery work, creating beauty, the Enneagram, an INFP, or unique in more than one way, then I look forward to hearing from you. You want support from a therapist that’s creative in their process and flexible in approach, committed to helping develop the skills to cultivate love, purpose and deep joy in life.
I focus on the somatic experience, mindfulness practices, persistent pain, anxiety, depression, insomnia issues, and transformative healing.
I am passionate about helping people change by finding deeper joy in their lives. If you seek healing, growth, a process through conflict or shifting painful patterns, if you desire to pursue wellness, spiritual connection and mind body integration, if you are curious about recovery work, creating beauty, the Enneagram, an INFP, or unique in more than one way, then I look forward to hearing from you. You want support from a therapist that’s creative in their process and flexible in approach, committed to helping develop the skills to cultivate love, purpose and deep joy in life.
(503) 447-8203 View (503) 447-8203
Photo of Adele Moore :: Center Horizon Holistic Health Coaching in Portland, OR
Adele Moore :: Center Horizon Holistic Health Coaching
MS, BSN, RN, NC-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211
Health is about more than the absence of illness and "the picture of health" is different for every person. My philosophy is that each individual has strengths and values that can be built upon to improve quality of life no matter what your health challenges are. I specialize in helping people find their strengths and then, we work together to create a wellness plan that is realistic and achievable. Together, we can build one for you beginning wherever you are today and moving forward.
Health is about more than the absence of illness and "the picture of health" is different for every person. My philosophy is that each individual has strengths and values that can be built upon to improve quality of life no matter what your health challenges are. I specialize in helping people find their strengths and then, we work together to create a wellness plan that is realistic and achievable. Together, we can build one for you beginning wherever you are today and moving forward.
(503) 877-2085 View (503) 877-2085
Photo of Leigh Kilgore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Leigh Kilgore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LICSW, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating chronic pain using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach uses evidence-based practices in a purposeful and targeted manner, equipping you with the necessary skills and tools to live a better life. My goal is to have you graduate from therapy and feel confident in your ability to manage your symptoms and stressors.
I specialize in treating chronic pain using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach uses evidence-based practices in a purposeful and targeted manner, equipping you with the necessary skills and tools to live a better life. My goal is to have you graduate from therapy and feel confident in your ability to manage your symptoms and stressors.
(206) 944-5866 View (206) 944-5866
Photo of Angee Gilchrist-Stewart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Angee Gilchrist-Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Other specialized interests: phobia, stress, sports and test performance, body dysmorphia, panic, complex trauma, PTSD, grief, pain disorders, OCD, Health At Every Size, creative blocks, psychogenic non-epileptic seizures.
Each of us is unique and has encountered challenges that shape who we are. What I offer is a safe, confidential space to navigate your concerns with a down-to-earth, open-minded, and objective, highly trained professional. Sometimes, we need someone to talk to and hold space for us. Sometimes we need someone who will challenge our perspective to help shift the way we have been looking at a problem. Sometimes we need someone to come down into the rabbit hole with us and help us find our way out. Let's find meaningful, intentional ways for you to engage with and live your life fully.
Other specialized interests: phobia, stress, sports and test performance, body dysmorphia, panic, complex trauma, PTSD, grief, pain disorders, OCD, Health At Every Size, creative blocks, psychogenic non-epileptic seizures.
Each of us is unique and has encountered challenges that shape who we are. What I offer is a safe, confidential space to navigate your concerns with a down-to-earth, open-minded, and objective, highly trained professional. Sometimes, we need someone to talk to and hold space for us. Sometimes we need someone who will challenge our perspective to help shift the way we have been looking at a problem. Sometimes we need someone to come down into the rabbit hole with us and help us find our way out. Let's find meaningful, intentional ways for you to engage with and live your life fully.
(971) 203-7878 View (971) 203-7878
Photo of Ami I. Student, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Ami I. Student
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Although I consider myself a lifelong learner, my name can often throw people. While my last name is "Student," I am actually a licensed, seasoned clinician with extensive training and experience in the field of psychology. I help adults confront a wide range of challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and traumatic stress. I also have expertise in assisting individuals struggling with their physical health, including chronic pain, medical illness, and sleep/insomnia.
Although I consider myself a lifelong learner, my name can often throw people. While my last name is "Student," I am actually a licensed, seasoned clinician with extensive training and experience in the field of psychology. I help adults confront a wide range of challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and traumatic stress. I also have expertise in assisting individuals struggling with their physical health, including chronic pain, medical illness, and sleep/insomnia.
(503) 506-6302 View (503) 506-6302
Photo of Julie Kahler, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Julie Kahler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97204
I have specialties in: Trauma Processing, Chronic Pain, Insomnia, Identity Exploration, Functional Behavioral Analysis, and Processing Loss.
I am a licensed psychologist providing video telehealth & in-person counseling to adults in Oregon who are struggling in their lives and relationships. Together, we explore the habits and beliefs that keep them from realizing their potential. In my practice, clients discover clarity about their values and boundaries, and are empowered to make change in their lives. My approach is to build a relationship of support and trust with you that offers the safety to explore problems with flexibility and curiosity. My clinical and research experience has given me expertise in human behaviors and emotions, but you are the expert of yourself.
I have specialties in: Trauma Processing, Chronic Pain, Insomnia, Identity Exploration, Functional Behavioral Analysis, and Processing Loss.
I am a licensed psychologist providing video telehealth & in-person counseling to adults in Oregon who are struggling in their lives and relationships. Together, we explore the habits and beliefs that keep them from realizing their potential. In my practice, clients discover clarity about their values and boundaries, and are empowered to make change in their lives. My approach is to build a relationship of support and trust with you that offers the safety to explore problems with flexibility and curiosity. My clinical and research experience has given me expertise in human behaviors and emotions, but you are the expert of yourself.
(503) 298-5208 View (503) 298-5208
Photo of Annie Vail, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Annie Vail
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that beyond the struggle and pain of life is an innate wisdom that guides each person to their wholeness.
I believe in your capacity to find the healing you seek and create the life you envision. Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression, grieving the death of a loved one or a painful breakup, struggle with belonging, or just feel stuck and know that you are ready to do something about it. Do you want more intimacy, connection, and joy in your relationships? Let me help you uncover unconscious patterns and beliefs and heal from old wounds that may be keeping you from living from your best self. Together we can bring more love, capacity, skill, and presence into your relationships.
I believe that beyond the struggle and pain of life is an innate wisdom that guides each person to their wholeness.
I believe in your capacity to find the healing you seek and create the life you envision. Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression, grieving the death of a loved one or a painful breakup, struggle with belonging, or just feel stuck and know that you are ready to do something about it. Do you want more intimacy, connection, and joy in your relationships? Let me help you uncover unconscious patterns and beliefs and heal from old wounds that may be keeping you from living from your best self. Together we can bring more love, capacity, skill, and presence into your relationships.
(503) 966-9615 View (503) 966-9615
Photo of Varsha Ruparel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Varsha Ruparel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
My clients have developed healthy boundaries, ability to deal with conflicting situations, frustration/dilemmas, issues adjusting to life changes of various types, ability to address pain, working through losses and finally adding meaning to life.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENT! Are you living your best life? Do you sense your life has become unmanageable? Do you struggle in relationships? If your story contains themes of depression, anxiety, addiction, interpersonal issues or just "seem to be stuck right now"; lets have a conversation to see how I can help you to create a better story. I'm a therapist, but I'm also a parent and wife who makes plenty of mistakes. Luckily, perfection isn't necessary or desirable. It often takes only small, positive changes to yield significant benefits. Things can get better, sometimes quickly, if you begin taking steps in the right direction.
My clients have developed healthy boundaries, ability to deal with conflicting situations, frustration/dilemmas, issues adjusting to life changes of various types, ability to address pain, working through losses and finally adding meaning to life.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENT! Are you living your best life? Do you sense your life has become unmanageable? Do you struggle in relationships? If your story contains themes of depression, anxiety, addiction, interpersonal issues or just "seem to be stuck right now"; lets have a conversation to see how I can help you to create a better story. I'm a therapist, but I'm also a parent and wife who makes plenty of mistakes. Luckily, perfection isn't necessary or desirable. It often takes only small, positive changes to yield significant benefits. Things can get better, sometimes quickly, if you begin taking steps in the right direction.
(971) 339-0568 View (971) 339-0568
Photo of Mary Meikle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Mary Meikle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
I use a strength based approach as a therapist. Working with adults, children, teens and families. Regardless of age many of the clients I have present with adjustment issues related to transitions they are experiencing in their lives. Clients often present with symptoms of anxiety and or depression resulting in a decrease in quality of life. Some are dealing with family communication challenges, a recent death or have a loved one who is sick or with a chronic illness. Clients can have a history of mental illness and others have relational challenges both personally, professionally or in school finding it hard to succeed.
I use a strength based approach as a therapist. Working with adults, children, teens and families. Regardless of age many of the clients I have present with adjustment issues related to transitions they are experiencing in their lives. Clients often present with symptoms of anxiety and or depression resulting in a decrease in quality of life. Some are dealing with family communication challenges, a recent death or have a loved one who is sick or with a chronic illness. Clients can have a history of mental illness and others have relational challenges both personally, professionally or in school finding it hard to succeed.
(503) 832-4849 View (503) 832-4849

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.