Chronic Pain Therapists in River North, Chicago, IL
I am committed to help you make the changes you want- Now. In your journey of self discovery, I will help you maximize your strengths, get support around your goals and desires, and create a healthy vision for yourself. I have worked with 100s of clients and have a wide range of experience to understand you. I am practical and results oriented. Make change work for you. Assessment is often used to help clarify issues and create a mutual plan.
I am committed to help you make the changes you want- Now. In your journey of self discovery, I will help you maximize your strengths, get support around your goals and desires, and create a healthy vision for yourself. I have worked with 100s of clients and have a wide range of experience to understand you. I am practical and results oriented. Make change work for you. Assessment is often used to help clarify issues and create a mutual plan.
My clients tend to be high functioning adults seeking private holistic therapy and pain relief.
Health psychology & psychotherapy integrated with traditional Yoga Therapy improves musculoskeletal and physiological functioning (flexibility and circulation), while preparing Body, Mind, and Spirit for peak experience! A course of regular 75-minute sessions offers cumulative gains. Single "tune-up" sessions boost well-being and awareness. Package rates available www.CherylHurst.com.
My clients tend to be high functioning adults seeking private holistic therapy and pain relief.
Health psychology & psychotherapy integrated with traditional Yoga Therapy improves musculoskeletal and physiological functioning (flexibility and circulation), while preparing Body, Mind, and Spirit for peak experience! A course of regular 75-minute sessions offers cumulative gains. Single "tune-up" sessions boost well-being and awareness. Package rates available www.CherylHurst.com.
Maybe your body carries pain, guilt, or silence that makes intimacy feel impossible.
I’m Bea Cleveland, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in reproductive and sexual medicine. I help clients with sexual anxiety, painful sex, endometriosis, chronic vulvar pain, menopause, reproductive trauma, and disconnection. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative, and rooted in both evidence and empathy.
Maybe your body carries pain, guilt, or silence that makes intimacy feel impossible.
I’m Bea Cleveland, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in reproductive and sexual medicine. I help clients with sexual anxiety, painful sex, endometriosis, chronic vulvar pain, menopause, reproductive trauma, and disconnection. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative, and rooted in both evidence and empathy.
I have 35 years of experience as a clinician, supervisor, consultant, former chaplain, and I am a Distinguished Full Professor at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have worked across the life span with individuals, couples, groups, families and organizations and have taught in 11 countries. My focus is on providing a space for unfolding what matters to you without judgment or without telling you how to live your life. I companion with you as we follow together what is of concern in specific situations. I am known as a therapist for those who distrust therapy or who feel deeply misunderstood, or uncelebrated.
I have 35 years of experience as a clinician, supervisor, consultant, former chaplain, and I am a Distinguished Full Professor at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have worked across the life span with individuals, couples, groups, families and organizations and have taught in 11 countries. My focus is on providing a space for unfolding what matters to you without judgment or without telling you how to live your life. I companion with you as we follow together what is of concern in specific situations. I am known as a therapist for those who distrust therapy or who feel deeply misunderstood, or uncelebrated.
My Education & Experience: I earned my B.A. in Sociology and B.M. in Music Performance from Northwestern University, and then my M.Ed. in Counseling from DePaul University, where I focused on both Clinical Mental Health Counseling as well as School Counseling. I have since become a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), a National Certified Counselor (NCC), and a Certified Clinical Trauma Counselor (CCTP). I also hold a Professional Educator License with an endorsement as a School Counselor for ages Pre-K through 21.
My Education & Experience: I earned my B.A. in Sociology and B.M. in Music Performance from Northwestern University, and then my M.Ed. in Counseling from DePaul University, where I focused on both Clinical Mental Health Counseling as well as School Counseling. I have since become a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), a National Certified Counselor (NCC), and a Certified Clinical Trauma Counselor (CCTP). I also hold a Professional Educator License with an endorsement as a School Counselor for ages Pre-K through 21.
With over 25 years of experience I have worked with a range of issues and populations. My main approach to therapy is cognitive behavioral theory (CBT) in order to process thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that contribute to distorted thinking and behavior, therefore affecting emotional well-being. The goal is to challenge and reframe so that the client achieves their personal goals, to cope with life transitions and obstacles. I also utilize Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I've assisted clients with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, life transitions, and various others.
With over 25 years of experience I have worked with a range of issues and populations. My main approach to therapy is cognitive behavioral theory (CBT) in order to process thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that contribute to distorted thinking and behavior, therefore affecting emotional well-being. The goal is to challenge and reframe so that the client achieves their personal goals, to cope with life transitions and obstacles. I also utilize Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I've assisted clients with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, life transitions, and various others.
As a fellow pilgrim in the journey of life, I believe that my work in counseling is more than just a job. It is a vocation. I realize that reaching out for help can seem like a big step for many people. I am committed to assisting clients in this journey by offering empathy, genuineness, and compassion in a nonjudgmental setting. As an older therapist, I often work with people who are encountering transitions in life. I have personal as well as professional experience in navigating life's challenges.
As a fellow pilgrim in the journey of life, I believe that my work in counseling is more than just a job. It is a vocation. I realize that reaching out for help can seem like a big step for many people. I am committed to assisting clients in this journey by offering empathy, genuineness, and compassion in a nonjudgmental setting. As an older therapist, I often work with people who are encountering transitions in life. I have personal as well as professional experience in navigating life's challenges.
Dr. Esposito is a Clinical Psychologist with experience working in university, hospital, and community mental health settings. He received his Master's and Doctorate, in health psychology, from The Adler School in Chicago. He completed his clinical internship and post-doctoral fellowship at Wichita State University receiving specialized training in preventative health psychology and sports psychology. Dr. Esposito utilizes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy combined with motivational interviewing and other approaches to treat mood disorders, anxiety disorders, relationship concerns, interpersonal conflict, and substance abuse, maladaptive eating patterns and the psychological components of eating behaviors.
Dr. Esposito is a Clinical Psychologist with experience working in university, hospital, and community mental health settings. He received his Master's and Doctorate, in health psychology, from The Adler School in Chicago. He completed his clinical internship and post-doctoral fellowship at Wichita State University receiving specialized training in preventative health psychology and sports psychology. Dr. Esposito utilizes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy combined with motivational interviewing and other approaches to treat mood disorders, anxiety disorders, relationship concerns, interpersonal conflict, and substance abuse, maladaptive eating patterns and the psychological components of eating behaviors.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the addiction and mental health field for 25+ years. I offer Counseling and Coaching Services to individuals and couples who are interested in personal growth. I believe in treating the whole person because integrating the mind, the body, and the community is essential in optimizing a person's quality of life. From complex trauma and addiction to learning everyday life skills, I try to help individuals find the strength and acceptance to overcome painful emotions. I strive for each client to leave sessions feeling empowered and confident in their abilities.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the addiction and mental health field for 25+ years. I offer Counseling and Coaching Services to individuals and couples who are interested in personal growth. I believe in treating the whole person because integrating the mind, the body, and the community is essential in optimizing a person's quality of life. From complex trauma and addiction to learning everyday life skills, I try to help individuals find the strength and acceptance to overcome painful emotions. I strive for each client to leave sessions feeling empowered and confident in their abilities.
Have you ever found yourself saying “I just wish I felt better” even if you can’t put your finger on precisely what’s wrong? If you are sick and tired of feeling sick and tired, I promise, you're not alone. Anyone who is sensitive (or even intuitive), knows it can be both a blessing and a curse to feel so deeply. Especially these days, it can be difficult to celebrate the good, mourn the bad, and keep the "ugly" in perspective. When a voice inside of you craves for respite, kindness, and nurturing, or you need to connect in a Real way to be reminded of your humanity, you’re ready for the kind of depth work I do.
Have you ever found yourself saying “I just wish I felt better” even if you can’t put your finger on precisely what’s wrong? If you are sick and tired of feeling sick and tired, I promise, you're not alone. Anyone who is sensitive (or even intuitive), knows it can be both a blessing and a curse to feel so deeply. Especially these days, it can be difficult to celebrate the good, mourn the bad, and keep the "ugly" in perspective. When a voice inside of you craves for respite, kindness, and nurturing, or you need to connect in a Real way to be reminded of your humanity, you’re ready for the kind of depth work I do.
We believe in taking a strengths-based approach to serving clients. Through our comprehensive services, we work to maximize your strengths to help you reach your full potential. We treat each client based on the unique needs they bring into the room; hence we will help you to stay motivated and supported as you work towards your goals. Our wide array of treatment services include psychotherapy for individuals, couples, families, and groups of all ages; as well as testing and evaluation, coaching, and consultation. We are committed to helping you make positive changes in your life and we work to provide a safe environment for doing s
We believe in taking a strengths-based approach to serving clients. Through our comprehensive services, we work to maximize your strengths to help you reach your full potential. We treat each client based on the unique needs they bring into the room; hence we will help you to stay motivated and supported as you work towards your goals. Our wide array of treatment services include psychotherapy for individuals, couples, families, and groups of all ages; as well as testing and evaluation, coaching, and consultation. We are committed to helping you make positive changes in your life and we work to provide a safe environment for doing s
He has experience supporting clients with grief, anxiety, depression, complex trauma, substance use, and living with chronic pain and illness.
James Drake (He/Him) is a compassionate therapist who works with individuals and couples navigating loss, life transitions, and emotional challenges. He provides a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their experiences with care and understanding. Grounded in a person-centered approach, James helps clients develop practical skills for emotional regulation while gaining insight into how past experiences shape present patterns. He supports clients in fostering balance and developing healthier ways of relating to themselves and others.
He has experience supporting clients with grief, anxiety, depression, complex trauma, substance use, and living with chronic pain and illness.
James Drake (He/Him) is a compassionate therapist who works with individuals and couples navigating loss, life transitions, and emotional challenges. He provides a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their experiences with care and understanding. Grounded in a person-centered approach, James helps clients develop practical skills for emotional regulation while gaining insight into how past experiences shape present patterns. He supports clients in fostering balance and developing healthier ways of relating to themselves and others.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Dr. Kristen Brendel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, PEL:SW, C-IAYT, CYT
4 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
I refer out for issues with suicidal ideation, self-harm, severe mental illness, eating disorders, & addictions.
I work with individuals experiencing chronic health issues, grief, anxiety, trauma, stress-related issues, and women's issues, including therapists, educators, and healthcare professionals. Many are accustomed to managing significant responsibilities and being relied upon by others, yet report feeling overwhelmed or depleted. They may be navigating burnout, life transitions, or the ongoing impact of health concerns. Treatment focuses on increasing insight, identifying patterns, developing more effective and sustainable ways to respond to stress and related symptoms, and improving emotional regulation and boundary setting.
I refer out for issues with suicidal ideation, self-harm, severe mental illness, eating disorders, & addictions.
I work with individuals experiencing chronic health issues, grief, anxiety, trauma, stress-related issues, and women's issues, including therapists, educators, and healthcare professionals. Many are accustomed to managing significant responsibilities and being relied upon by others, yet report feeling overwhelmed or depleted. They may be navigating burnout, life transitions, or the ongoing impact of health concerns. Treatment focuses on increasing insight, identifying patterns, developing more effective and sustainable ways to respond to stress and related symptoms, and improving emotional regulation and boundary setting.
Are you done struggling with anxiety, depression, and relationships? Are you ready to feel fully yourself and alive again? Are you ready to build the life you want to live? My first goal when meeting with you is to establish a genuine & collaborative connection. This'll serve as the foundation for the work necessary to deal with daily feelings, understand experiences & make positive changes to your life. We'll work together to help you feel whole, peaceful, and connected. When you're done with therapy, you'll feel empowered and ready to face whatever challenges life throws at you. I can help you live your passion, purpose & truth.
Are you done struggling with anxiety, depression, and relationships? Are you ready to feel fully yourself and alive again? Are you ready to build the life you want to live? My first goal when meeting with you is to establish a genuine & collaborative connection. This'll serve as the foundation for the work necessary to deal with daily feelings, understand experiences & make positive changes to your life. We'll work together to help you feel whole, peaceful, and connected. When you're done with therapy, you'll feel empowered and ready to face whatever challenges life throws at you. I can help you live your passion, purpose & truth.
Asking for help isn't easy and takes a great deal of courage. I greatly respect the individuals I work with and do my best to make their experience one that feels healing and encouraging. I work with children, teens, and adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, chronic medical conditions, and difficulties with relationships, life transitions, and self-esteem. I utilize a warm and thoughtful approach to create a genuine and collaborative partnership with each individual I work with.
Asking for help isn't easy and takes a great deal of courage. I greatly respect the individuals I work with and do my best to make their experience one that feels healing and encouraging. I work with children, teens, and adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, chronic medical conditions, and difficulties with relationships, life transitions, and self-esteem. I utilize a warm and thoughtful approach to create a genuine and collaborative partnership with each individual I work with.
Nazneen Syed, LPC, helps individuals across Illinois navigate emotional challenges with clarity, resilience, and practical tools for lasting change. As a Licensed Professional Counselor at LifeStance Health, she provides compassionate, evidence-based individual therapy for teens, adults, and seniors. Nazneen supports clients facing anxiety, depression, and trauma, creating a safe, collaborative space where they can better understand their experiences and build meaningful coping strategies.
Nazneen Syed, LPC, helps individuals across Illinois navigate emotional challenges with clarity, resilience, and practical tools for lasting change. As a Licensed Professional Counselor at LifeStance Health, she provides compassionate, evidence-based individual therapy for teens, adults, and seniors. Nazneen supports clients facing anxiety, depression, and trauma, creating a safe, collaborative space where they can better understand their experiences and build meaningful coping strategies.
Gratefully practicing at New Insights Behavioral Health Services. When people experience trauma or life stressors, it is not uncommon to become overwhelmed with emotions. My passion is to hold space and help facilitate healing in those who are feeling lost, lonely, or needing support. I collaborate with my adult clients to find healthy perceptions of themselves, explore their culture and intersectionality, and find liberation in their trauma by exploring their experiences with gentle curiosity. We will work together to gain skills, recognize core beliefs, reflect on life experiences as early as childhood, and reach goals.
Gratefully practicing at New Insights Behavioral Health Services. When people experience trauma or life stressors, it is not uncommon to become overwhelmed with emotions. My passion is to hold space and help facilitate healing in those who are feeling lost, lonely, or needing support. I collaborate with my adult clients to find healthy perceptions of themselves, explore their culture and intersectionality, and find liberation in their trauma by exploring their experiences with gentle curiosity. We will work together to gain skills, recognize core beliefs, reflect on life experiences as early as childhood, and reach goals.
I am a queer and neurodivergent therapist committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment free of judgment or pretense, where you may feel empowered to voice thoughts, express feelings, and be curious about yourself in a way you may not have elsewhere. I believe that each person has the ability to create their own meaning in life, and I am passionate about helping my clients uncover their unique purpose and potential. Together, we will work to address any limiting beliefs or patterns, as well as examine how past experiences and cultural factors have shaped your worldview and prevented you from living a more fulfilling life.
I am a queer and neurodivergent therapist committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment free of judgment or pretense, where you may feel empowered to voice thoughts, express feelings, and be curious about yourself in a way you may not have elsewhere. I believe that each person has the ability to create their own meaning in life, and I am passionate about helping my clients uncover their unique purpose and potential. Together, we will work to address any limiting beliefs or patterns, as well as examine how past experiences and cultural factors have shaped your worldview and prevented you from living a more fulfilling life.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
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Chronic Pain Therapists
How does chronic pain therapy work?
Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.
What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?
Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.
Are there new treatments for chronic pain?
Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.
How long does therapy for chronic pain take?
There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.