Photo of Rehab Therapy Resources, Inc., Psychologist in San Antonio, TX
Rehab Therapy Resources, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78240
We provide supportive psychotherapy for patients with a serious illness or injury, who now live with chronic pain and impairment. It is not unusual to experience problems with stress, depression, and anxiety after a medical crisis, and to become isolated from the flow of life. You will be given an individual therapist to support you and help you learn about the specific skills, attitudes, and behaviors that help you slowly but steadily "push back" and regain quality of life.
We provide supportive psychotherapy for patients with a serious illness or injury, who now live with chronic pain and impairment. It is not unusual to experience problems with stress, depression, and anxiety after a medical crisis, and to become isolated from the flow of life. You will be given an individual therapist to support you and help you learn about the specific skills, attitudes, and behaviors that help you slowly but steadily "push back" and regain quality of life.
(210) 672-1246 View (210) 672-1246
Photo of Cheryl Wright, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Cheryl Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78240
The decision to seek therapy is difficult and personal. Not knowing all the answers to your life questions is natural. Often, people choose therapy during times of stress, discomfort, chaos, and emotional pain. It may also be when you are ready for changes or growth to happen in your life. I believe that within every individual lies the ability to overcome, learn, and preserver through the concerns that brought them to therapy.
The decision to seek therapy is difficult and personal. Not knowing all the answers to your life questions is natural. Often, people choose therapy during times of stress, discomfort, chaos, and emotional pain. It may also be when you are ready for changes or growth to happen in your life. I believe that within every individual lies the ability to overcome, learn, and preserver through the concerns that brought them to therapy.
(210) 762-4741 View (210) 762-4741
Photo of Betty L Lopez, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Betty L Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78203  (Online Only)
I have worked with folks with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and trauma.
You're probably tired of feeling confused, stressed out, afraid, guilty, or some other unwanted emotion that keeps circling in your head. It's exhausting carrying those emotions around. It starts to affect your daily life and those around you, too! I hope you are here because you're thinking, "Is there something I could try?" Yes! I hope you're asking yourself, "Where do I start?"
I have worked with folks with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and trauma.
You're probably tired of feeling confused, stressed out, afraid, guilty, or some other unwanted emotion that keeps circling in your head. It's exhausting carrying those emotions around. It starts to affect your daily life and those around you, too! I hope you are here because you're thinking, "Is there something I could try?" Yes! I hope you're asking yourself, "Where do I start?"
(817) 761-0159 View (817) 761-0159
Photo of Benjamin Conner, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Benjamin Conner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR, Veteran
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260  (Online Only)
I offer you a pathway from pain and fatigue to peace and empowerment.
If you suffer from trauma, PTSD, anxiety or depression, and you are exhausted from the fight, lets talk. I survived many types of abuse, trauma, and PTSD. I then transitioned from military search and rescue to civilian life with my wife and three boys. I understand treating these issues with EMDR and guiding healing for individuals and families. Parenting and relationships are difficult, and with trauma in the background it can seem impossible. Treating those injuries from the past and present can change your life, strengthen your identity, and heal your relationships.
I offer you a pathway from pain and fatigue to peace and empowerment.
If you suffer from trauma, PTSD, anxiety or depression, and you are exhausted from the fight, lets talk. I survived many types of abuse, trauma, and PTSD. I then transitioned from military search and rescue to civilian life with my wife and three boys. I understand treating these issues with EMDR and guiding healing for individuals and families. Parenting and relationships are difficult, and with trauma in the background it can seem impossible. Treating those injuries from the past and present can change your life, strengthen your identity, and heal your relationships.
(210) 361-2475 View (210) 361-2475
Photo of Bioenergetic Healing Psychotherapist, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Bioenergetic Healing Psychotherapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CHT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78228
The source of all illness is hidden in the subconscious mind which stores all manner of distortions about the self.
My role in psychotherapy is simple. I work as a guide to help lead clients from 3rd dimensional consciousness to new levels of awareness. With the support of my guiding system and those of my clients', I act as a conduit to bring the information and energies that are needed in that point in time for the client's highest good. My approach is spiritual and energy psychology. It is based on the premise that all illness is mental illness and all healing must begin in psychotherapy.
The source of all illness is hidden in the subconscious mind which stores all manner of distortions about the self.
My role in psychotherapy is simple. I work as a guide to help lead clients from 3rd dimensional consciousness to new levels of awareness. With the support of my guiding system and those of my clients', I act as a conduit to bring the information and energies that are needed in that point in time for the client's highest good. My approach is spiritual and energy psychology. It is based on the premise that all illness is mental illness and all healing must begin in psychotherapy.
(210) 625-7633 View (210) 625-7633
Photo of Arte Counseling And Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Arte Counseling And Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78249  (Online Only)
Hello there! ARTE Counseling and Wellness provides mental health services to children and adults in Texas. We provide integrative , client centered approaches and work with you and your family to build trust and safety in the therapeutic setting. We specialize in working with adult and children in transition ( ie loss of a loved one , change in job/school, chronic illness), parental stressors ( ie communication/ bonding), perinatal mood disorders ( ie anxiety and postpartum depression, birth trauma ( ie ICU, complications, emergency C-sections), sadness/anxiety in children and gifted and talented children experiencing anxiety.
Hello there! ARTE Counseling and Wellness provides mental health services to children and adults in Texas. We provide integrative , client centered approaches and work with you and your family to build trust and safety in the therapeutic setting. We specialize in working with adult and children in transition ( ie loss of a loved one , change in job/school, chronic illness), parental stressors ( ie communication/ bonding), perinatal mood disorders ( ie anxiety and postpartum depression, birth trauma ( ie ICU, complications, emergency C-sections), sadness/anxiety in children and gifted and talented children experiencing anxiety.
(210) 791-6810 View (210) 791-6810
Photo of Stephanie Torres Rojas, Psychologist in San Antonio, TX
Stephanie Torres Rojas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216  (Online Only)
Her focus includes anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, anger management, marital and family conflict, divorce, adjustment disorder, parenting skills, spirituality, coping skills, life transitions, acculturation, LGBTQ, existential concerns, bipolar disorders, racial minorities, chronic pain, and chronic illness.
Telehealth only. Dr. Stephanie Torres is a bilingual (Spanish) licensed psychologist who provides individual, couple, family, and group therapy. Her approach is inclusive, synergetic, and trauma-informed. She strives to create a safe, warm, and non-judgmental environment where everyone is treated with respect, uniqueness, egalitarianism, and anti-racism. She aims to help clients promote personal growth, overcome challenges, transitions, and difficulties in life, and facilitate the emotional and healing process.
Her focus includes anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, anger management, marital and family conflict, divorce, adjustment disorder, parenting skills, spirituality, coping skills, life transitions, acculturation, LGBTQ, existential concerns, bipolar disorders, racial minorities, chronic pain, and chronic illness.
Telehealth only. Dr. Stephanie Torres is a bilingual (Spanish) licensed psychologist who provides individual, couple, family, and group therapy. Her approach is inclusive, synergetic, and trauma-informed. She strives to create a safe, warm, and non-judgmental environment where everyone is treated with respect, uniqueness, egalitarianism, and anti-racism. She aims to help clients promote personal growth, overcome challenges, transitions, and difficulties in life, and facilitate the emotional and healing process.
(210) 934-4597 View (210) 934-4597
Photo of Carli Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Carli Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216  (Online Only)
We all have challenging and overwhelming times in our life and struggling with mental illness only I makes it harder.
I have experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, abuse, PTSD, stress management, school issues, psychosis and relational issues. I work with clients who are looking to learn coping skills, improve communication with friends and/or family, process past or current abuse/trauma, or just have someone to talk things over with.
We all have challenging and overwhelming times in our life and struggling with mental illness only I makes it harder.
I have experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, abuse, PTSD, stress management, school issues, psychosis and relational issues. I work with clients who are looking to learn coping skills, improve communication with friends and/or family, process past or current abuse/trauma, or just have someone to talk things over with.
(210) 756-2961 View (210) 756-2961
Photo of Jackie Hodges, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Jackie Hodges
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78240  (Online Only)
I work specifically with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, anger management, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, anomalous experiences, religious trauma, pregnancy loss, infant loss, infertility, relationship struggles, active duty military, veterans, chronic illness, medical trauma, navigating divorce, and other areas of life that are overwhelming.
I’m a licensed counselor providing teletherapy to anyone looking for support from the comfort of their own home. We can work together to help make life feel a little better. I work with clients who may live in rural Texas, or clients who benefits from telehealth thearpy/virtual therapy. I have many years working with grief, loss, medical trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. I like to get to know my clients and how they navigate their world so we can find practical skills to move through tough emotions. I look forward to meeting you!
I work specifically with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, anger management, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, anomalous experiences, religious trauma, pregnancy loss, infant loss, infertility, relationship struggles, active duty military, veterans, chronic illness, medical trauma, navigating divorce, and other areas of life that are overwhelming.
I’m a licensed counselor providing teletherapy to anyone looking for support from the comfort of their own home. We can work together to help make life feel a little better. I work with clients who may live in rural Texas, or clients who benefits from telehealth thearpy/virtual therapy. I have many years working with grief, loss, medical trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. I like to get to know my clients and how they navigate their world so we can find practical skills to move through tough emotions. I look forward to meeting you!
(210) 864-7577 View (210) 864-7577
Photo of Valessa Agosto, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Valessa Agosto
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216
Where you can make sense of and understand the confusion, sadness, fear, worry, doubt, and pain you may be feeling.
I have provided therapy for clients with a variety of concerns. I have worked with college students of all ages for the last few years, stress and personal growth has been a topic that many clients come in wanting to work on. Anxiety is another topic that I have helped my clients manage. Anxiety can be mild or so severe that individuals may experience frequent panic attacks. I have experience with individuals in recovery and their families. Clients experiencing difficulties in relationships come in hoping to improve their relationships. I have worked with clients with a variety of cultural and religious backgrounds.
Where you can make sense of and understand the confusion, sadness, fear, worry, doubt, and pain you may be feeling.
I have provided therapy for clients with a variety of concerns. I have worked with college students of all ages for the last few years, stress and personal growth has been a topic that many clients come in wanting to work on. Anxiety is another topic that I have helped my clients manage. Anxiety can be mild or so severe that individuals may experience frequent panic attacks. I have experience with individuals in recovery and their families. Clients experiencing difficulties in relationships come in hoping to improve their relationships. I have worked with clients with a variety of cultural and religious backgrounds.
(210) 767-3143 View (210) 767-3143
Photo of Lea Bloodworth, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Lea Bloodworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78254  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My primary areas of focus are: College Students, Emerging & Young Adults, Internationals & Repatriates, Teachers & Educators, Chronic Pain & Illness/Autoimmune Disorders, & Grief.
Are you struggling with life's challenges? We all experience seasons in life where life gets too hard, and the burden seems too heavy to carry alone. More often than not, when we consider therapy as a treatment approach, we have tried everything we know to try on our own, and it's just not quite working. People who seek out counseling during these times are BRAVE enough to admit that it's okay to ask for help. Whatever you may be going through, my hope is that you seek the help you may need and find what works for you!
My primary areas of focus are: College Students, Emerging & Young Adults, Internationals & Repatriates, Teachers & Educators, Chronic Pain & Illness/Autoimmune Disorders, & Grief.
Are you struggling with life's challenges? We all experience seasons in life where life gets too hard, and the burden seems too heavy to carry alone. More often than not, when we consider therapy as a treatment approach, we have tried everything we know to try on our own, and it's just not quite working. People who seek out counseling during these times are BRAVE enough to admit that it's okay to ask for help. Whatever you may be going through, my hope is that you seek the help you may need and find what works for you!
(806) 605-1239 View (806) 605-1239
Photo of McKenna Hereford, Psychologist in San Antonio, TX
McKenna Hereford
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78245  (Online Only)
I've worked in a variety of settings including corrections, VA & other hospitals, and private practice and use that to help those facing relationship issues, mood concerns, sexual concerns, queer/non-monogamous folks, and chronic illness.
You've lost your spark and find yourself feeling tired, confused, and even hopeless. As much as you've tried to improve relationships with others and your own well-being, you feel stuck. You feel misunderstood by others and struggle to relate or trust loved ones. You've maybe even tried therapy before without avail and are trying again in hopes of healing. You are looking for connection, not only to others, but also to yourself. You're looking for compass to guide you to a meaningful life above the struggles. At your core, you want peace.
I've worked in a variety of settings including corrections, VA & other hospitals, and private practice and use that to help those facing relationship issues, mood concerns, sexual concerns, queer/non-monogamous folks, and chronic illness.
You've lost your spark and find yourself feeling tired, confused, and even hopeless. As much as you've tried to improve relationships with others and your own well-being, you feel stuck. You feel misunderstood by others and struggle to relate or trust loved ones. You've maybe even tried therapy before without avail and are trying again in hopes of healing. You are looking for connection, not only to others, but also to yourself. You're looking for compass to guide you to a meaningful life above the struggles. At your core, you want peace.
(210) 934-9480 View (210) 934-9480
Photo of Lisa A Guerra, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Lisa A Guerra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216  (Online Only)
My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. I can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. Depression, anxiety, and grief are some of the most uncomfortable emotions we can experience in our lives. We may experience these emotions for many reasons: Loved One's Death, Chronic Pain, Divorce, Job Loss and other Life Challenges.
My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. I can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. Depression, anxiety, and grief are some of the most uncomfortable emotions we can experience in our lives. We may experience these emotions for many reasons: Loved One's Death, Chronic Pain, Divorce, Job Loss and other Life Challenges.
(210) 968-0254 View (210) 968-0254
Photo of Katherine Kainer, Psychologist in San Antonio, TX
Katherine Kainer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212
Hello! My name is Dr. Katherine (Katie) Kainer and I am a licensed psychologist based in San Antonio, TX. I am the owner of ReNew Psychological Services, PLLC, and provide virtual therapy to clients all over Texas. I work with adults who experience various difficulties, including depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, anger, stress, body image, relational, communication, life transition/adjustment, grief/loss, burnout, work stress, perfectionism, self-esteem, family conflict, chronic pain, neurocognitive, military/veteran-related, and college mental health concerns.
Hello! My name is Dr. Katherine (Katie) Kainer and I am a licensed psychologist based in San Antonio, TX. I am the owner of ReNew Psychological Services, PLLC, and provide virtual therapy to clients all over Texas. I work with adults who experience various difficulties, including depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, anger, stress, body image, relational, communication, life transition/adjustment, grief/loss, burnout, work stress, perfectionism, self-esteem, family conflict, chronic pain, neurocognitive, military/veteran-related, and college mental health concerns.
(281) 746-6732 View (281) 746-6732
Photo of Leslie Ann Shields, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Leslie Ann Shields
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCS, CBIS
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232  (Online Only)
A favorite saying of mine is "CHANGE... It's One of Life's Only Constants..." Change often signifies growth. Changes often move us from our comfort zone and may trigger stressful or distressing thoughts, behaviors, emotions or physiological responses. Our responses are often unconscious. Except we consciously recognize increased discomfort, pain or unproductive functioning in our daily roles and relationships. If you or a family member are experiencing any social, emotional, mental or behavioral difficulties causing distress & preventing enjoying life or realizing your or their full potential in personal, work or school functioning, I invite you to call me.
A favorite saying of mine is "CHANGE... It's One of Life's Only Constants..." Change often signifies growth. Changes often move us from our comfort zone and may trigger stressful or distressing thoughts, behaviors, emotions or physiological responses. Our responses are often unconscious. Except we consciously recognize increased discomfort, pain or unproductive functioning in our daily roles and relationships. If you or a family member are experiencing any social, emotional, mental or behavioral difficulties causing distress & preventing enjoying life or realizing your or their full potential in personal, work or school functioning, I invite you to call me.
(832) 632-8118 View (832) 632-8118
Photo of Christian Counseling Center Boerne, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Christian Counseling Center Boerne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78255
Is emotional pain, anxiety, depression, or lack of focus interfering with your personal fulfillment? Life may have given you trauma, but together we can create a new and better direction. Difficult relationships, grief, unwanted or racing thoughts, cause panic attacks, sleeplessness, fears, anger, or addictions. As an experienced counselor and retired school teacher, I am trained to address these symptoms using EMDR, Prayer, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and more. Whether it's in my office in Boerne or online, Therapy can be the key in opening new doors for you.
Is emotional pain, anxiety, depression, or lack of focus interfering with your personal fulfillment? Life may have given you trauma, but together we can create a new and better direction. Difficult relationships, grief, unwanted or racing thoughts, cause panic attacks, sleeplessness, fears, anger, or addictions. As an experienced counselor and retired school teacher, I am trained to address these symptoms using EMDR, Prayer, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and more. Whether it's in my office in Boerne or online, Therapy can be the key in opening new doors for you.
(830) 224-2822 View (830) 224-2822
Photo of Heidi R Mandl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Heidi R Mandl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78218  (Online Only)
Depression, anxiety, insomnia, trauma, relationship issues, and pain management, are just a few examples of what I can help you with.
I am licensed in Texas with two decades of professional work experience. I can help you with stress and anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, and depression, as well as relationship conflicts. I believe in respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
Depression, anxiety, insomnia, trauma, relationship issues, and pain management, are just a few examples of what I can help you with.
I am licensed in Texas with two decades of professional work experience. I can help you with stress and anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, and depression, as well as relationship conflicts. I believe in respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
(713) 352-1305 View (713) 352-1305
Photo of Red Apple Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Red Apple Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78239  (Online Only)
I specialize in treatment of military service members active duty and veterans, LGBTQIA+, sex related issues, kink positive, depression, trauma and PTSD, anxiety, ADHD and those with severe mental illness.
My name is Faith and I work with individuals and couples facing a range of concerns to include depression, trauma, abuse, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues, sex related issues, sexuality, and other life issues. I will work to meet you where you are in your journey. Red Apple Therapy offers alternative therapies for those searching for a holistic and eclectic approach to counseling, including ecotherapy and mindfulness practices. Our goal is to assist you in meeting your goal by providing a safe, authentic and compassionate clinical setting with an individualized therapy experience.
I specialize in treatment of military service members active duty and veterans, LGBTQIA+, sex related issues, kink positive, depression, trauma and PTSD, anxiety, ADHD and those with severe mental illness.
My name is Faith and I work with individuals and couples facing a range of concerns to include depression, trauma, abuse, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues, sex related issues, sexuality, and other life issues. I will work to meet you where you are in your journey. Red Apple Therapy offers alternative therapies for those searching for a holistic and eclectic approach to counseling, including ecotherapy and mindfulness practices. Our goal is to assist you in meeting your goal by providing a safe, authentic and compassionate clinical setting with an individualized therapy experience.
(512) 980-1226 View (512) 980-1226
Photo of Dr. Erin Andrews, Psychologist in San Antonio, TX
Dr. Erin Andrews
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78205  (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 Online Virtual Therapy With Ranya Marjieh, Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Online Virtual Therapy With Ranya Marjieh
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78250
My approach to therapy is to treat the individual rather than the “illness”.
FREE consultations! Are you feeling stuck in negative thoughts, intense emotions, or behavioral patterns that don't serve your best interest? Are you hoping to build more meaning and joy in your life? You may feel hesitant about reaching out for help, especially with pressure from all directions to "have it all together". I'm here to join you on this journey to discover healing and build a balanced life. My goal is to help you find compassion for yourself, develop skills to help you navigate life stressors, and be confident in the resilient person you are.
My approach to therapy is to treat the individual rather than the “illness”.
FREE consultations! Are you feeling stuck in negative thoughts, intense emotions, or behavioral patterns that don't serve your best interest? Are you hoping to build more meaning and joy in your life? You may feel hesitant about reaching out for help, especially with pressure from all directions to "have it all together". I'm here to join you on this journey to discover healing and build a balanced life. My goal is to help you find compassion for yourself, develop skills to help you navigate life stressors, and be confident in the resilient person you are.
(858) 943-0578 View (858) 943-0578

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.