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Online Therapists

Photo of The Ludden Group, P.C., Psychologist in Italy, TX
The Ludden Group, P.C.
Psychologist, EdD, Psy, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
I have more than twenty five years experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics in individual, marital, family, and groups in the field of counseling health services. My experience includes consulting in inpatient psychiatric and hospitals, medical/surgical hospitals, nursing homes, pain management clinics, and private practice. I also specialize in career testing and counseling for high school students, college students, and in career transition for adults. I have served as a psychologist and director of a Christian counseling center for eight years and as a psychologist and manager for the employee assistance program for Methodist Hospitals of Dallas.
I have more than twenty five years experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics in individual, marital, family, and groups in the field of counseling health services. My experience includes consulting in inpatient psychiatric and hospitals, medical/surgical hospitals, nursing homes, pain management clinics, and private practice. I also specialize in career testing and counseling for high school students, college students, and in career transition for adults. I have served as a psychologist and director of a Christian counseling center for eight years and as a psychologist and manager for the employee assistance program for Methodist Hospitals of Dallas.
(972) 646-2801 View (972) 646-2801
Photo of Marian Zimmerman, Psychologist in Italy, TX
Marian Zimmerman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
I provide cognitive behavioral therapy, motivation enhancement, stress management, behavioral sleep medicine, chronic pain management, relaxation training, mindfulness practice, and psychological testing, as well as individual psychotherapy.
I take a whole body approach to health and illness with a focus on how the mind influences the body just as the body influences the mind. Anxiety, depression, and stress can impact health and exacerbate chronic pain, heart disease, insomnia, and other medical problems. However, addressing the emotional aspects of medical conditions can improve quality of life and physical health. Also, psychological principles can help enhance wellness and lead to lasting behavioral changes. As a health psychologist, I can help you emotionally cope with medical conditions, make healthy lifestyle choices, and learn skills to move forward with your life.
I provide cognitive behavioral therapy, motivation enhancement, stress management, behavioral sleep medicine, chronic pain management, relaxation training, mindfulness practice, and psychological testing, as well as individual psychotherapy.
I take a whole body approach to health and illness with a focus on how the mind influences the body just as the body influences the mind. Anxiety, depression, and stress can impact health and exacerbate chronic pain, heart disease, insomnia, and other medical problems. However, addressing the emotional aspects of medical conditions can improve quality of life and physical health. Also, psychological principles can help enhance wellness and lead to lasting behavioral changes. As a health psychologist, I can help you emotionally cope with medical conditions, make healthy lifestyle choices, and learn skills to move forward with your life.
(214) 935-3975 View (214) 935-3975
Photo of Frank Hood, Licensed Professional Counselor in Italy, TX
Frank Hood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034  (Online Only)
Among my areas of specialty are depression, anxiety, chronic mental illness, and substance abuse, but I am comfortable and well versed in treating a wide variety of presenting concerns.
Sometimes life and things get to be "a bit too much." We all deal with things differently. My focus is helping clients chart a path towards greater wellbeing and fulfillment, so that they can ultimately live a happy and healthy life that matters. This means an individualized treatment plan and goals which we will collaborate together. My work is insight driven. I am passionate about helping others develop deeper understanding and acceptance for themselves, the world and the experiences which we encounter.
Among my areas of specialty are depression, anxiety, chronic mental illness, and substance abuse, but I am comfortable and well versed in treating a wide variety of presenting concerns.
Sometimes life and things get to be "a bit too much." We all deal with things differently. My focus is helping clients chart a path towards greater wellbeing and fulfillment, so that they can ultimately live a happy and healthy life that matters. This means an individualized treatment plan and goals which we will collaborate together. My work is insight driven. I am passionate about helping others develop deeper understanding and acceptance for themselves, the world and the experiences which we encounter.
(281) 214-6912 View (281) 214-6912
Photo of Mindful Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Italy, TX
Mindful Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denton, TX 76205
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stressed out with no end in sight? We see you. We see you struggling to get out of bed. We see you wondering what the point of it all is. We see the depth of your pain. How? Because WE are human too. And because we work WITH humans every day. Every day, we see the pain, the struggle, the difficulty. You are so not alone in this.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stressed out with no end in sight? We see you. We see you struggling to get out of bed. We see you wondering what the point of it all is. We see the depth of your pain. How? Because WE are human too. And because we work WITH humans every day. Every day, we see the pain, the struggle, the difficulty. You are so not alone in this.
(469) 629-7099 View (469) 629-7099
Photo of Dallas Therapeutic Services, Psychologist in Italy, TX
Dallas Therapeutic Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75063
We have 16 therapists specializing in the following: LGBTQ+, PTSD (including military/first responders), pain, OCD, child/adolescent (including play therapy), EMDR, CBT, DBT, Spanish speaking, cultural issues, eating disorders, substance use, psychosis, grief, couples, family, attachment issues and behavioral.
Dallas Therapeutic Services is a group practice uniquely managed to fit the needs of most clients! When the group formed, care was taken to choose clinicians with a variety of backgrounds and specialities. We want to provide an environment, where we can match clients with their best fit therapist. Additionally, we are able to psychological testing for ADHD, Autism, IQ (processing speed, working memory, comprehension and perceptual reasoning as well IQ score) and personality (diagnosis) - all of which can help with differentiating diagnoses and planning treatment accordingly.
We have 16 therapists specializing in the following: LGBTQ+, PTSD (including military/first responders), pain, OCD, child/adolescent (including play therapy), EMDR, CBT, DBT, Spanish speaking, cultural issues, eating disorders, substance use, psychosis, grief, couples, family, attachment issues and behavioral.
Dallas Therapeutic Services is a group practice uniquely managed to fit the needs of most clients! When the group formed, care was taken to choose clinicians with a variety of backgrounds and specialities. We want to provide an environment, where we can match clients with their best fit therapist. Additionally, we are able to psychological testing for ADHD, Autism, IQ (processing speed, working memory, comprehension and perceptual reasoning as well IQ score) and personality (diagnosis) - all of which can help with differentiating diagnoses and planning treatment accordingly.
(972) 472-4934 View (972) 472-4934
Photo of Diane M Gard, Psychologist in Italy, TX
Diane M Gard
Psychologist, PhD, BFK, NFK
Verified Verified
Gun Barrel City, TX 75156
Gard can provide a thorough assessment and treatment plan to address depression, anxiety, stress management, pain management, mood management, behaviors, addictions, learning disorders, memory problems, adjustment issues, and trauma issues/ PTSD.
Dr. Gard has a PhD in Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine with over 30 years of clinical experience. Clients span a wide variety of diagnoses. She sees clients Age 5 to seniors. ETNH office is open Mondays through Thursdays and by appointment to serve the community. She can provide biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, light therapy in addition to eclectic approaches (cognitive and behavioral) to address your specific needs.
Gard can provide a thorough assessment and treatment plan to address depression, anxiety, stress management, pain management, mood management, behaviors, addictions, learning disorders, memory problems, adjustment issues, and trauma issues/ PTSD.
Dr. Gard has a PhD in Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine with over 30 years of clinical experience. Clients span a wide variety of diagnoses. She sees clients Age 5 to seniors. ETNH office is open Mondays through Thursdays and by appointment to serve the community. She can provide biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, light therapy in addition to eclectic approaches (cognitive and behavioral) to address your specific needs.
(903) 767-4190 View (903) 767-4190
Photo of Dr. Erin Andrews, Psychologist in Italy, TX
Dr. Erin Andrews
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205  (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 Sabrina S Austin, Psychologist in Italy, TX
Sabrina S Austin
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Are your health issues overwhelming your life? Living with chronic medical issues like pain can be isolating, frightening, and dejecting. As a health psychologist, I offer hope, knowledge, and support to individuals struggling with complex challenges. Every day, scientific advancements illuminate the integral relationship between mind and body. Effective treatment of one requires caring for both. In working with me, you can expect kindness, humor, acceptance, and a lot of mixed metaphors. I hope that, through our work together, you can find sources of light on your darkest days.
Are your health issues overwhelming your life? Living with chronic medical issues like pain can be isolating, frightening, and dejecting. As a health psychologist, I offer hope, knowledge, and support to individuals struggling with complex challenges. Every day, scientific advancements illuminate the integral relationship between mind and body. Effective treatment of one requires caring for both. In working with me, you can expect kindness, humor, acceptance, and a lot of mixed metaphors. I hope that, through our work together, you can find sources of light on your darkest days.
(972) 702-7245 View (972) 702-7245
Photo of Aaron Pollard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Italy, TX
Aaron Pollard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Burleson, TX 76028
I specialize in dealing with physical disabilities and chronic pain, addictions, individual counseling, family and couples counseling, child development and or behavioral issues in school and or home for ages 10-18, depression, anxiety, and military issues such as life style and deployment, and many other life obstacles.
As a clinician I have a very goal-oriented, direct style of counseling; however, I am tactful in my approach. I am here to help you and/or your family achieve your therapeutic goals and I believe in maintaining appropriate and healthy boundaries. I have experience in a plethora of physical and behavioral health issues such as addictions, family and couples counseling, child behavioral issues in school and home, disability and chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and military issues to name a few Please give me a call and let’s get you living the life you were meant to live.
I specialize in dealing with physical disabilities and chronic pain, addictions, individual counseling, family and couples counseling, child development and or behavioral issues in school and or home for ages 10-18, depression, anxiety, and military issues such as life style and deployment, and many other life obstacles.
As a clinician I have a very goal-oriented, direct style of counseling; however, I am tactful in my approach. I am here to help you and/or your family achieve your therapeutic goals and I believe in maintaining appropriate and healthy boundaries. I have experience in a plethora of physical and behavioral health issues such as addictions, family and couples counseling, child behavioral issues in school and home, disability and chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and military issues to name a few Please give me a call and let’s get you living the life you were meant to live.
(682) 688-4269 View (682) 688-4269
Photo of Adam C. Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Italy, TX
Adam C. Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Flower Mound, TX 75028
Two Openings Left! I specialize in working with sexual problems, family conflict, adjusting to illness and disability, addiction, and many other relationship challenges. I have a small private practice and only see clients on Fridays because I also teach full-time at a local university. I also offer a free over-the-phone consultation. You can call, email, or send a text message and we can discuss if I am a good fit for your therapy needs.
Two Openings Left! I specialize in working with sexual problems, family conflict, adjusting to illness and disability, addiction, and many other relationship challenges. I have a small private practice and only see clients on Fridays because I also teach full-time at a local university. I also offer a free over-the-phone consultation. You can call, email, or send a text message and we can discuss if I am a good fit for your therapy needs.
(940) 394-0630 View (940) 394-0630
Photo of Gina R Carter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Italy, TX
Gina R Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAMF, MARE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
*Serious Illness/Cancer Support *Trauma informed EMDR Certified Therapist *Bereavement *Multi-Cultural Population *20+ years as a Licensed Counselor *Inpatient, Outpatient, Faith-Based, and Rehabilitation .
Looking for relief and overwhelmed with where to even begin? Take the first step in unraveling the chaos as we develop a plan that helps restore your hope once again. My passion centers around working with adults who have experienced loss, trauma, mood disorders, and relationship difficulties. Together we develop strategies that equip you to move through the pain in your life, so you can face the future with renewed confidence.
*Serious Illness/Cancer Support *Trauma informed EMDR Certified Therapist *Bereavement *Multi-Cultural Population *20+ years as a Licensed Counselor *Inpatient, Outpatient, Faith-Based, and Rehabilitation .
Looking for relief and overwhelmed with where to even begin? Take the first step in unraveling the chaos as we develop a plan that helps restore your hope once again. My passion centers around working with adults who have experienced loss, trauma, mood disorders, and relationship difficulties. Together we develop strategies that equip you to move through the pain in your life, so you can face the future with renewed confidence.
(469) 224-0123 View (469) 224-0123
Photo of Phil Bohart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Italy, TX
Phil Bohart
Licensed Professional Counselor, CRC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
Accepts most health insurance plans, Medicare, and I am currently taking new clients. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, I am specifically trained in using evidence based, empirically supported cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with clients who are facing challenges of medical disability, depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, and sleep related disorders.
Accepts most health insurance plans, Medicare, and I am currently taking new clients. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, I am specifically trained in using evidence based, empirically supported cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with clients who are facing challenges of medical disability, depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, and sleep related disorders.
(214) 857-6022 View (214) 857-6022
Photo of Elizaveta Leeper, Licensed Professional Counselor in Italy, TX
Elizaveta Leeper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75013  (Online Only)
I hold dual licensure in Mental Health and Addiction treatment and am passionate about treating both, especially from a preventative standpoint in chronic pain patients.
You’re tired of being told something like: - "You're just burnt out.” - " It's tough for everyone right now.” - "Have you tried getting more sleep/yoga/eating “clean”?" And now you’re wondering, “What am I supposed to do?” Among a sea of confusing advice and credentials, you’re really hoping to find a grounded, real, human therapist who won’t BS you. With my wide working experience in different levels of psychiatric & medical care, professional training, and personal lived experience, my ultimate goal for each session is for you to feel truly seen and understood, and have a personalized plan for moving forward with your life.
I hold dual licensure in Mental Health and Addiction treatment and am passionate about treating both, especially from a preventative standpoint in chronic pain patients.
You’re tired of being told something like: - "You're just burnt out.” - " It's tough for everyone right now.” - "Have you tried getting more sleep/yoga/eating “clean”?" And now you’re wondering, “What am I supposed to do?” Among a sea of confusing advice and credentials, you’re really hoping to find a grounded, real, human therapist who won’t BS you. With my wide working experience in different levels of psychiatric & medical care, professional training, and personal lived experience, my ultimate goal for each session is for you to feel truly seen and understood, and have a personalized plan for moving forward with your life.
(469) 423-8389 View (469) 423-8389
Photo of Cherie Spellman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Italy, TX
Cherie Spellman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grapevine, TX 76051
Get unstuck, heal from trauma, and find relief from physical pain and tension. I provide individualized therapy to every unique person, helping you to find new ways to grow, change, and connect to yourself and others. I help clients with physical and emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, sport injury and sport performance, PTSD, stuck patterns of behavior, unwanted emotional reactions, and performance and creativity enhancement. Client's response to the body/brain approach is awe in noticing things they never have and making new connections that are felt in a way that they can actually take action on.
Get unstuck, heal from trauma, and find relief from physical pain and tension. I provide individualized therapy to every unique person, helping you to find new ways to grow, change, and connect to yourself and others. I help clients with physical and emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, sport injury and sport performance, PTSD, stuck patterns of behavior, unwanted emotional reactions, and performance and creativity enhancement. Client's response to the body/brain approach is awe in noticing things they never have and making new connections that are felt in a way that they can actually take action on.
(682) 228-3790 View (682) 228-3790
Photo of Mathias Ngwa, Psychological Associate in Italy, TX
Mathias Ngwa
Psychological Associate, PsyD, ABSNP, LPA, ICP
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76006
Are you looking for a psychological/neuropsychological evaluation and/or a medication free treatment for attention, sleep, migraine, anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, headache, or traumatic brain injury problems? Are you a struggling learner seeking ways to improve performance at school, sports or work? Do you have a history of autism spectrum, ADD/ADHD, fetal alcohol syndrome, language and communication problems, Down’s Syndrome, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, concussion, stroke, memory difficulties, chronic illness, motor and balance coordination, developmental delay, Parkinson’s, or multiple sclerosis?
Are you looking for a psychological/neuropsychological evaluation and/or a medication free treatment for attention, sleep, migraine, anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, headache, or traumatic brain injury problems? Are you a struggling learner seeking ways to improve performance at school, sports or work? Do you have a history of autism spectrum, ADD/ADHD, fetal alcohol syndrome, language and communication problems, Down’s Syndrome, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, concussion, stroke, memory difficulties, chronic illness, motor and balance coordination, developmental delay, Parkinson’s, or multiple sclerosis?
(682) 204-6546 View (682) 204-6546
Photo of Cara Strickland, Marriage & Family Therapist in Italy, TX
Cara Strickland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR, Equine
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Argyle, TX 76226
I am here to help walk alongside of you through the messy parts of your life and offer a safe, non-judgmental place to shed the pain and bloom into the person you were created to be.
The journey through life is uniquely our own and presents each of us with an array of distinctive experiences. We are all faced with transitions and challenges that present us with opportunities to grow, gain insight, heal and explore our personal potential. I am honored to meet you right where you are on your path, provide therapeutic support and find solutions that enable you to live a healthier, more fulfilling life. Collaboratively, we will work to cultivate new coping skills, reshape relationships, identify personal strengths, and overcome ineffective behavioral patterns in efforts to achieve your personal goals.
I am here to help walk alongside of you through the messy parts of your life and offer a safe, non-judgmental place to shed the pain and bloom into the person you were created to be.
The journey through life is uniquely our own and presents each of us with an array of distinctive experiences. We are all faced with transitions and challenges that present us with opportunities to grow, gain insight, heal and explore our personal potential. I am honored to meet you right where you are on your path, provide therapeutic support and find solutions that enable you to live a healthier, more fulfilling life. Collaboratively, we will work to cultivate new coping skills, reshape relationships, identify personal strengths, and overcome ineffective behavioral patterns in efforts to achieve your personal goals.
(817) 756-9567 View (817) 756-9567
Photo of Brian Marc Simmons, Licensed Professional Counselor in Italy, TX
Brian Marc Simmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CH, EMDR
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
It can alter perception, poison our thoughts, create unwanted reactions, and cause illness.
The most recent brain/body science shows us long-term healing is difficult to achieve without changing how information travels through the nervous system. Creating these adjustments is possible if you know how. Mr. Simmons utilizes a mind/body-based treatment approach that combines relevant talk therapy modalities, psychoeducation, mindfulness and somatic stabilization techniques, along with Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing, Multichannel Eye Movement Integration (MEMI), Emotional Freedom Technique, and Trauma Informed treatment techniques to address client's presenting symptoms and achieve a variety of treatment goals.
It can alter perception, poison our thoughts, create unwanted reactions, and cause illness.
The most recent brain/body science shows us long-term healing is difficult to achieve without changing how information travels through the nervous system. Creating these adjustments is possible if you know how. Mr. Simmons utilizes a mind/body-based treatment approach that combines relevant talk therapy modalities, psychoeducation, mindfulness and somatic stabilization techniques, along with Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing, Multichannel Eye Movement Integration (MEMI), Emotional Freedom Technique, and Trauma Informed treatment techniques to address client's presenting symptoms and achieve a variety of treatment goals.
(214) 997-6484 View (214) 997-6484
Photo of Behavioral Health Providers, Psychologist in Italy, TX
Behavioral Health Providers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
Waitlist for new clients
I offer neuropsychological evaluation and therapy utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy with my clients that are faced with challenges of mood disorders, neurocognitive/developmental disorders, and pain related disorders. As well, I perform assessments for those with mild brain injury, aging related disorders, ADHD (adults), and those that need an evaluation prior to an upcoming surgical procedure.
I offer neuropsychological evaluation and therapy utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy with my clients that are faced with challenges of mood disorders, neurocognitive/developmental disorders, and pain related disorders. As well, I perform assessments for those with mild brain injury, aging related disorders, ADHD (adults), and those that need an evaluation prior to an upcoming surgical procedure.
(214) 506-2454 View (214) 506-2454
Photo of Rose Dunn, Psychologist in Italy, TX
Rose Dunn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Welcome! I’m glad you are here. My specialties include helping clients navigate life transitions, improve their relationships, and cope with chronic illness or injuries. During our work together, you can count on me to be present and supportive in your journey. I will be available to listen without judgment. We will work together to cultivate acceptance and compassion for your emotions, while also working to create meaningful change in patterns or behaviors that are no longer serving you.
Welcome! I’m glad you are here. My specialties include helping clients navigate life transitions, improve their relationships, and cope with chronic illness or injuries. During our work together, you can count on me to be present and supportive in your journey. I will be available to listen without judgment. We will work together to cultivate acceptance and compassion for your emotions, while also working to create meaningful change in patterns or behaviors that are no longer serving you.
(469) 414-5462 View (469) 414-5462
Photo of Kimberly Mizerik, Licensed Professional Counselor in Italy, TX
Kimberly Mizerik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76710
I teach Mindfulness to increase the ability to tolerate emotional pain and decrease suffering.
Now offering Therapy Intensive sessions which are an accelerated form of therapy that allows deeper healing in a shorter amount of time. Are stressful events and relationships making it impossible for you to relax? Are anxiety and depression making it hard to focus on the important things in your life and preventing you from making positive changes? There is hope and help available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience as a psychotherapist in private practice and in Community Counseling. I have helped patients in their recovery from depression, anxiety, unstable relationships, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD.
I teach Mindfulness to increase the ability to tolerate emotional pain and decrease suffering.
Now offering Therapy Intensive sessions which are an accelerated form of therapy that allows deeper healing in a shorter amount of time. Are stressful events and relationships making it impossible for you to relax? Are anxiety and depression making it hard to focus on the important things in your life and preventing you from making positive changes? There is hope and help available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience as a psychotherapist in private practice and in Community Counseling. I have helped patients in their recovery from depression, anxiety, unstable relationships, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD.
(254) 853-5079 View (254) 853-5079
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.