Photo of Noelle Prax, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Austin, TX
Noelle Prax
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
Complex trauma often manifests in chronic pain being held in the body. As a trauma counselor who specializes in working with people who experience Chronic Illness, Fatigue, and Pain, I aim to bring both your mind and body peace. As a former EMT, I witnessed the invalidation and exhaustion that can come from simply trying to “prove” your diagnoses to people who just don’t understand. I believe you. I am in your corner, and will work with you towards reducing medical anxiety, processing diagnoses and loss, and living a full life outside of doctor appointments. If you’re feeling stuck, alone, misunderstood – let’s chat.
Complex trauma often manifests in chronic pain being held in the body. As a trauma counselor who specializes in working with people who experience Chronic Illness, Fatigue, and Pain, I aim to bring both your mind and body peace. As a former EMT, I witnessed the invalidation and exhaustion that can come from simply trying to “prove” your diagnoses to people who just don’t understand. I believe you. I am in your corner, and will work with you towards reducing medical anxiety, processing diagnoses and loss, and living a full life outside of doctor appointments. If you’re feeling stuck, alone, misunderstood – let’s chat.
(737) 345-4693 View (737) 345-4693
Photo of Kelly Pastori, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Kelly Pastori
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
Trauma and abuse: spiritual, emotional, sexual, physical, racial; Nervous system psychoeducation, anxiety/depression; Boundaries and codependency; Sexual identity development, Evangelical fundamentalist Purity culture recovery; White identity development; Chronic illness, unidentified physical pain and stress, psychosomatic stress.
At the heart of my work, I approach therapy from a relational, psychodynamic therapy model, which means I believe the relationship between the client and therapist can be a transformative component in the growth process. I am a LPC combining modern neurobiology with holistic somatic healing, the psychodynamic therapeutic relationship, and body-based practices to create an experiential awakening on a bodily, psychological and emotional level. I work from a somatic-centered therapeutic approach, meaning that I believe that the body tells the stories and narratives. For more information, my website is: www.kellypastori.com
Trauma and abuse: spiritual, emotional, sexual, physical, racial; Nervous system psychoeducation, anxiety/depression; Boundaries and codependency; Sexual identity development, Evangelical fundamentalist Purity culture recovery; White identity development; Chronic illness, unidentified physical pain and stress, psychosomatic stress.
At the heart of my work, I approach therapy from a relational, psychodynamic therapy model, which means I believe the relationship between the client and therapist can be a transformative component in the growth process. I am a LPC combining modern neurobiology with holistic somatic healing, the psychodynamic therapeutic relationship, and body-based practices to create an experiential awakening on a bodily, psychological and emotional level. I work from a somatic-centered therapeutic approach, meaning that I believe that the body tells the stories and narratives. For more information, my website is: www.kellypastori.com
(512) 598-5003 View (512) 598-5003
Photo of Allison Ray Benavides, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Allison Ray Benavides
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704  (Online Only)
My Clients are often coping w/chronic pain or illness, caregiver fatigue, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety/panic, getting older or low self worth.
If you are in pain & feel left out of life, I could be a good fit for you. If you watch everyone else wondering "what am I doing wrong?" "when will it be my turn?" Often we withdraw when we don't feel well, even when longing for connection. Sometimes we are coping w/a medical condition, in addition to trauma, chronic pain or fatigue. Often this is bundled w/depression, anxiety, panic & PTSD. In addition to your own stressors, maybe you also care for a loved one w/a disability or illness. When it's all too much, when our symptoms & stressors push us toward our window of tolerance or decrease feelings of self worth, I'm here for you.
My Clients are often coping w/chronic pain or illness, caregiver fatigue, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety/panic, getting older or low self worth.
If you are in pain & feel left out of life, I could be a good fit for you. If you watch everyone else wondering "what am I doing wrong?" "when will it be my turn?" Often we withdraw when we don't feel well, even when longing for connection. Sometimes we are coping w/a medical condition, in addition to trauma, chronic pain or fatigue. Often this is bundled w/depression, anxiety, panic & PTSD. In addition to your own stressors, maybe you also care for a loved one w/a disability or illness. When it's all too much, when our symptoms & stressors push us toward our window of tolerance or decrease feelings of self worth, I'm here for you.
(210) 971-4414 View (210) 971-4414
Photo of ATX Therapy Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
ATX Therapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
Here are some examples of what we can offer during sessions: Improving communication skills, setting boundaries, creating healthy coping skills to manage overwhelming situations, navigating the waves of grief, building healthier couples & family relationships, reducing anxiety or depression symptoms, & managing chronic pain or illness (just to name a few).
It takes great courage to recognize when you could use some additional support in your life, and even more courage to take the first step in reaching out. It may feel easier at times to suffer in silence. ATX Therapy Center is very glad you're here - you deserve to receive the support you need to overcome life's challenges that you are facing, and live your best life. Our team of expert, professional clinicians have experience in helping people with a wide variety of life situations and struggles. We accept most major insurance plans and want to make sure that you have access to affordable, quality healthcare - we're here to help!
Here are some examples of what we can offer during sessions: Improving communication skills, setting boundaries, creating healthy coping skills to manage overwhelming situations, navigating the waves of grief, building healthier couples & family relationships, reducing anxiety or depression symptoms, & managing chronic pain or illness (just to name a few).
It takes great courage to recognize when you could use some additional support in your life, and even more courage to take the first step in reaching out. It may feel easier at times to suffer in silence. ATX Therapy Center is very glad you're here - you deserve to receive the support you need to overcome life's challenges that you are facing, and live your best life. Our team of expert, professional clinicians have experience in helping people with a wide variety of life situations and struggles. We accept most major insurance plans and want to make sure that you have access to affordable, quality healthcare - we're here to help!
(737) 265-7408 View (737) 265-7408
Photo of Rebecca Davenport, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Rebecca Davenport
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP, PA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
I work with individuals, couples, families and groups, across the life cycle, addressing concerns including (but not limited to); anxiety/depression, interpersonal skills, work/life balance, parenting, chronic/acute illness, and relationships issues for heterosexual, queer, gay and lesbian couples.
I collaborate with clients to resolve problems in living, to promote emotional growth and to facilitate personal and professional success. My therapeutic style is warm, direct and interactive. I believe that each of us can make mindful choices to create a gratifying life, to care for ourselves, our families and relationships. We can practice skillfully and create meaning in the difficulties and catastrophes that can complicate our course.
I work with individuals, couples, families and groups, across the life cycle, addressing concerns including (but not limited to); anxiety/depression, interpersonal skills, work/life balance, parenting, chronic/acute illness, and relationships issues for heterosexual, queer, gay and lesbian couples.
I collaborate with clients to resolve problems in living, to promote emotional growth and to facilitate personal and professional success. My therapeutic style is warm, direct and interactive. I believe that each of us can make mindful choices to create a gratifying life, to care for ourselves, our families and relationships. We can practice skillfully and create meaning in the difficulties and catastrophes that can complicate our course.
(512) 540-5571 View (512) 540-5571
Photo of Dr. Erin Andrews, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Dr. Erin Andrews
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745  (Online Only)
Are you trying to make sense of your life following the diagnosis of a disability or chronic illness? Are you looking for help managing emotional distress, anxiety, or relationship issues? Do you struggle with the aftermath of adoption trauma? Sometimes life throws unexpected obstacles at us. Therapy can help, whether you are dealing with a new onset disability, coping with the frustrations of living disabled in an ableist society, or navigating the complexities of international or transracial adoption.
Are you trying to make sense of your life following the diagnosis of a disability or chronic illness? Are you looking for help managing emotional distress, anxiety, or relationship issues? Do you struggle with the aftermath of adoption trauma? Sometimes life throws unexpected obstacles at us. Therapy can help, whether you are dealing with a new onset disability, coping with the frustrations of living disabled in an ableist society, or navigating the complexities of international or transracial adoption.
(512) 881-7201 View (512) 881-7201
Photo of Sydney Kudeviz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Sydney Kudeviz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78748
I work with adolescents and adults of all identities who are open to trying new healing modalities. I enjoy using a variety of tools in sessions including oracle cards, tarot cards, journaling, and EFT or tapping. I have experience navigating and understanding for clients and myself what it is like to live with chronic illness and complex medical issues, particularly chronic pelvic conditions including endometriosis and PCOS. I am happy to see clients virtually or in-person for those fully vaccinated for COVID-19.
I work with adolescents and adults of all identities who are open to trying new healing modalities. I enjoy using a variety of tools in sessions including oracle cards, tarot cards, journaling, and EFT or tapping. I have experience navigating and understanding for clients and myself what it is like to live with chronic illness and complex medical issues, particularly chronic pelvic conditions including endometriosis and PCOS. I am happy to see clients virtually or in-person for those fully vaccinated for COVID-19.
(512) 551-0294 View (512) 551-0294
Photo of Anna Graybeal, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Anna Graybeal
Psychologist, PhD, CGP, SEP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78751
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I establish a strong alliance with my clients through empathy and respect and work collaboratively with them to achieve their goals. Other areas of my expertise include parenting, divorce, health problems such as illness and chronic pain, grief and loss, trauma, substance abuse, low self-esteem and identity issues.
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I establish a strong alliance with my clients through empathy and respect and work collaboratively with them to achieve their goals. Other areas of my expertise include parenting, divorce, health problems such as illness and chronic pain, grief and loss, trauma, substance abuse, low self-esteem and identity issues.
(512) 540-5328 View (512) 540-5328
Photo of Sara Sloan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Sara Sloan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST, AASECT, IRT, MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78750
I help clients with identity & relationship issues stemming from personal/cultural differences, a loss of intimacy, infidelity, premarital, sexual incompatibilities, autoimmunity, disability, chronic pain, miscarriage, infertility, sexual complications, religious issues around sexuality and identity, ED, divorce, a new baby, polyamory, anxiety & depression.
I believe relationships define each of us and form the foundation for our life. I work from a systemic perspective with couples, individuals, and families to create relationships that define not only who we are, but also who we desire to become. I help clients with their relationships, intimacy, connection, communication, and sexual compatibility. I work with a lot of women who have suffered from Narcissistic abuse in relationships and family of origin. I also help those who are confused in their current relationships. I enjoy helping those who have autoimmune disease and cancer redefine their sexuality, relationships and desire.
I help clients with identity & relationship issues stemming from personal/cultural differences, a loss of intimacy, infidelity, premarital, sexual incompatibilities, autoimmunity, disability, chronic pain, miscarriage, infertility, sexual complications, religious issues around sexuality and identity, ED, divorce, a new baby, polyamory, anxiety & depression.
I believe relationships define each of us and form the foundation for our life. I work from a systemic perspective with couples, individuals, and families to create relationships that define not only who we are, but also who we desire to become. I help clients with their relationships, intimacy, connection, communication, and sexual compatibility. I work with a lot of women who have suffered from Narcissistic abuse in relationships and family of origin. I also help those who are confused in their current relationships. I enjoy helping those who have autoimmune disease and cancer redefine their sexuality, relationships and desire.
(512) 982-9836 View (512) 982-9836
Photo of Andrea B Henderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Andrea B Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
The beginning of healing for your anxiety, depression, trauma, or difficult relationship is willingness to seek help. When a problem seems bigger than you, I'd like to help you understand your own story and find your way back to wholeness. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood pain, life transitions, and helping others grow toward healthier relationships. I believe you are the expert in your life, and I want to help you make sense of your past and present so you can have a fulfilling future.
The beginning of healing for your anxiety, depression, trauma, or difficult relationship is willingness to seek help. When a problem seems bigger than you, I'd like to help you understand your own story and find your way back to wholeness. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood pain, life transitions, and helping others grow toward healthier relationships. I believe you are the expert in your life, and I want to help you make sense of your past and present so you can have a fulfilling future.
(512) 812-9596 View (512) 812-9596
Photo of Martha Brandt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Martha Brandt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, SEP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Are you overwhelmed? Anxious? Lonely? In emotional or even physical pain? Working hard to care for everyone else and coming up empty within yourself? Feeling isolated in the close relationship you care about most? Therapy offers a safe and confidential place to get some help to develop or perhaps rekindle a lively connection to yourself and your own dreams. If your relationship is suffering, it can help you regain the closeness and intimacy you once had and if you are parents help you nurture your own marriage while raising secure children.
Are you overwhelmed? Anxious? Lonely? In emotional or even physical pain? Working hard to care for everyone else and coming up empty within yourself? Feeling isolated in the close relationship you care about most? Therapy offers a safe and confidential place to get some help to develop or perhaps rekindle a lively connection to yourself and your own dreams. If your relationship is suffering, it can help you regain the closeness and intimacy you once had and if you are parents help you nurture your own marriage while raising secure children.
(512) 699-6950 View (512) 699-6950
Photo of Brittany (Neece) Whallen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Brittany (Neece) Whallen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Many of our clients come to us for issues including: Relationship struggles; Grief and Loss (including the death or loss of a loved one, loss of a job, and divorce); Anxiety; Depression; Traumatic experiences; EMDR; Life transitional issues; Difficulty within the family system; and Chronic Pain (Specifically pelvic pain).
We all go through complicated situations, some of which we don’t feel adequately prepared to handle. Most of us were never taught how to navigate these difficult struggles in healthy, constructive ways. That's why we are here. My clinical team works with a diverse variety of clientele to provide affordable counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. We want to work with you to help you overcome obstacles that you are facing, improve on aspects in your current life situation, and provide a sense of strength and hope during times that you may feel lost. Please call us for a free phone consultation.
Many of our clients come to us for issues including: Relationship struggles; Grief and Loss (including the death or loss of a loved one, loss of a job, and divorce); Anxiety; Depression; Traumatic experiences; EMDR; Life transitional issues; Difficulty within the family system; and Chronic Pain (Specifically pelvic pain).
We all go through complicated situations, some of which we don’t feel adequately prepared to handle. Most of us were never taught how to navigate these difficult struggles in healthy, constructive ways. That's why we are here. My clinical team works with a diverse variety of clientele to provide affordable counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. We want to work with you to help you overcome obstacles that you are facing, improve on aspects in your current life situation, and provide a sense of strength and hope during times that you may feel lost. Please call us for a free phone consultation.
(512) 814-6027 View (512) 814-6027
Photo of Moonstone Counseling PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Moonstone Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Our therapists also specialize in treating addiction, eating disorders, and chronic illness.
These are unprecedented times. You may find your usual ways of coping with stress and uncertainty are no longer helping you. Moonstone Counseling is here to support you, whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or any other emotional issue. COVID-19 has challenged us to seek support in new and unconventional ways. We offer in-person and teletherapy sessions to people who need an outlet and guide during this global pandemic. We are here to help you through this tough time.
Our therapists also specialize in treating addiction, eating disorders, and chronic illness.
These are unprecedented times. You may find your usual ways of coping with stress and uncertainty are no longer helping you. Moonstone Counseling is here to support you, whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or any other emotional issue. COVID-19 has challenged us to seek support in new and unconventional ways. We offer in-person and teletherapy sessions to people who need an outlet and guide during this global pandemic. We are here to help you through this tough time.
(512) 580-8377 View (512) 580-8377
Photo of Brianna Wood, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Brianna Wood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
I have developed a passion for working with clients and families navigating illness.
Making the decision to begin counseling can be difficult and finding a therapist that is a good match can be equally overwhelming. I work to create a comfortable, safe, and supportive environment to make it easier to start the process. Everyone enters therapy at a different place, and I work to meet clients where they are. My approach is primarily relational because the quality of the client-therapist relationship can serve as the catalyst for change.
I have developed a passion for working with clients and families navigating illness.
Making the decision to begin counseling can be difficult and finding a therapist that is a good match can be equally overwhelming. I work to create a comfortable, safe, and supportive environment to make it easier to start the process. Everyone enters therapy at a different place, and I work to meet clients where they are. My approach is primarily relational because the quality of the client-therapist relationship can serve as the catalyst for change.
(512) 548-8778 View (512) 548-8778
Photo of Elene Drakonakis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Elene Drakonakis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
Contemplating any change can be daunting, but here you are, reaching out, exploring. Seeing a therapist can be the first step along a new path. Change takes time, and we can go at your pace, walking together on a path you determine. Whether you are looking at a life transition, worried about how substance use is affecting you, grieving a loss or dealing with a chronic illness, together we will begin the process of examining where you are, working together to shift to a place that brings you fulfillment and to help you reach your goals.
Contemplating any change can be daunting, but here you are, reaching out, exploring. Seeing a therapist can be the first step along a new path. Change takes time, and we can go at your pace, walking together on a path you determine. Whether you are looking at a life transition, worried about how substance use is affecting you, grieving a loss or dealing with a chronic illness, together we will begin the process of examining where you are, working together to shift to a place that brings you fulfillment and to help you reach your goals.
(737) 204-2192 View (737) 204-2192
Photo of Susan Bushong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Susan Bushong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
Chronic pain and illness, sleep problems and sexual addiction and food problems are my specialties. I have over 40 years of experience, an advance certification in compulsive sexual problems and I am a certified weight loss specialist. I also have extensive training in treating anxiety and depression as well as problems in relationships. I am extensively trained in treating chronic pain and sleep problems through hypnotherapy and brief solution focused therapy. I have worked in Europe, India and the United States.
Chronic pain and illness, sleep problems and sexual addiction and food problems are my specialties. I have over 40 years of experience, an advance certification in compulsive sexual problems and I am a certified weight loss specialist. I also have extensive training in treating anxiety and depression as well as problems in relationships. I am extensively trained in treating chronic pain and sleep problems through hypnotherapy and brief solution focused therapy. I have worked in Europe, India and the United States.
(512) 337-3357 View (512) 337-3357
Photo of Emily E Harrison, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Emily E Harrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
I specialize in acting as a companion on illness, trauma, or grief journeys.
Are you grappling with the impacts of a loss, medical diagnosis, or trauma? Loss is common to the human experience, but when it stems from the death of a loved one or a cancer diagnosis, it can be especially isolating and overwhelming. You’re asking big questions: Will I always feel like this? Is this normal? When will my suffering end? And despite trying therapy in the past or talking to your friends and family, it’s felt like no one has truly understood your experience. You’re craving warmth, safety, and radical unconditional regard—somewhere all of your emotions, questions, and fears can be freely shared and expressed.
I specialize in acting as a companion on illness, trauma, or grief journeys.
Are you grappling with the impacts of a loss, medical diagnosis, or trauma? Loss is common to the human experience, but when it stems from the death of a loved one or a cancer diagnosis, it can be especially isolating and overwhelming. You’re asking big questions: Will I always feel like this? Is this normal? When will my suffering end? And despite trying therapy in the past or talking to your friends and family, it’s felt like no one has truly understood your experience. You’re craving warmth, safety, and radical unconditional regard—somewhere all of your emotions, questions, and fears can be freely shared and expressed.
(512) 692-4782 View (512) 692-4782
Photo of Jessie Tirrell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Jessie Tirrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, BAS, TBRI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I've spent 19 years helping adults, families, and children face their anxiety, grow from their pain, and believe in themselves with warmth and no judgment.
Are you feeling stuck and ready to live like you again? Living with anxiety can be crippling. Watching your child struggle with anxiety locked away from your efforts to help is overwhelming. If your anxiety runs the show you know you miss out on friends, family, and unlocking your potential. If your child is struggling they may be having behaviors that you KNOW are not them but you can't seem to get a handle on. Anxious or traumatized kids are often acting out kids and getting them to talk about the real problems can feel impossible. If you're an adult with trauma you may not have learned how to do that either. You can be better.
I've spent 19 years helping adults, families, and children face their anxiety, grow from their pain, and believe in themselves with warmth and no judgment.
Are you feeling stuck and ready to live like you again? Living with anxiety can be crippling. Watching your child struggle with anxiety locked away from your efforts to help is overwhelming. If your anxiety runs the show you know you miss out on friends, family, and unlocking your potential. If your child is struggling they may be having behaviors that you KNOW are not them but you can't seem to get a handle on. Anxious or traumatized kids are often acting out kids and getting them to talk about the real problems can feel impossible. If you're an adult with trauma you may not have learned how to do that either. You can be better.
(682) 327-0469 View (682) 327-0469
Photo of Victoria Washington, Counselor in Austin, TX
Victoria Washington
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78712  (Online Only)
My mission as an IFS-trained therapist is to help you understand and heal the different parts of yourself that may be in conflict or pain. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, I am here to support you. IFS stands for Internal Family Systems. It is a model that views each person as having a system of sub-personalities that have their own thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and motivations. Some of your parts may be wounded by past experiences and carry negative emotions such as anger, fear, shame, or guilt. Other parts may try to protect you from those emotions by avoiding, pleasing, or numbing.
My mission as an IFS-trained therapist is to help you understand and heal the different parts of yourself that may be in conflict or pain. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, I am here to support you. IFS stands for Internal Family Systems. It is a model that views each person as having a system of sub-personalities that have their own thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and motivations. Some of your parts may be wounded by past experiences and carry negative emotions such as anger, fear, shame, or guilt. Other parts may try to protect you from those emotions by avoiding, pleasing, or numbing.
(240) 233-2927 View (240) 233-2927
Photo of Heather Curry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Heather Curry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Welcome! I help people stuck in an exhausting web of anxiety, sadness, perfectionism, and self-doubt. I also work with people who manage chronic health conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, pelvic pain, and other chronic conditions. Many of my clients have experienced traumatic events and relationships and we are working to help them process and heal. It is my privilege to be part of this process and I love this work.
Welcome! I help people stuck in an exhausting web of anxiety, sadness, perfectionism, and self-doubt. I also work with people who manage chronic health conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, pelvic pain, and other chronic conditions. Many of my clients have experienced traumatic events and relationships and we are working to help them process and heal. It is my privilege to be part of this process and I love this work.
(512) 543-2950 View (512) 543-2950

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.