Chronic Pain Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Cynthia B. Kinney, MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia B. Kinney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237  (Online Only)
Life during these times can be overwhelming. Multiple issues build up inside of us and can become compounded. We hold all of these stresses in our body and it is easy to feel anxious, depressed, sick and unhappy. I have extensive training and experience working with stress related issues, particularly work and family overload, chronic pain and illness, aging, dealing with the effects of Alzheimer's disease, and grief. I will help you to develop your inner strength and spirituality. We will explore your thoughts and feelings to solve your life problems and to use these skills so that you heal and thrive.
Life during these times can be overwhelming. Multiple issues build up inside of us and can become compounded. We hold all of these stresses in our body and it is easy to feel anxious, depressed, sick and unhappy. I have extensive training and experience working with stress related issues, particularly work and family overload, chronic pain and illness, aging, dealing with the effects of Alzheimer's disease, and grief. I will help you to develop your inner strength and spirituality. We will explore your thoughts and feelings to solve your life problems and to use these skills so that you heal and thrive.
(412) 455-7257 View (412) 455-7257
Photo of Remy Garland, Pre-Licensed Professional
Remy Garland
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
My passion lies in providing inclusive, comprehensive, and accessible care. I believe that healing work is social justice work. My practice has a strong focus on LGBTQIA folks, social justice oriented community members, misfits, outsiders, and alternative relationship styles (including poly and kink aligned). I love to work with my non-binary and transgender communities to thrive and navigate all of life’s transitions. I support clients living with chronic pain and illness (currently respecting the energy you are using right now to look for a therapist!).
My passion lies in providing inclusive, comprehensive, and accessible care. I believe that healing work is social justice work. My practice has a strong focus on LGBTQIA folks, social justice oriented community members, misfits, outsiders, and alternative relationship styles (including poly and kink aligned). I love to work with my non-binary and transgender communities to thrive and navigate all of life’s transitions. I support clients living with chronic pain and illness (currently respecting the energy you are using right now to look for a therapist!).
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Photo of Sheri Goldstrohm, PsyD, Psychologist
Sheri Goldstrohm
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Dr. Sheri Goldstrohm has over 25 years of experience providing psychological services in diverse settings and across the age spectrum. She has experience in health psychology; crisis management and Critical Incident Stress Management; community mental health; integrated care; death, dying and bereavement; and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). Dr. Goldstrohm's areas of clinical expertise include women's issues, behavioral pain management, integrated care with a focus on maximizing health and wellness for individuals with chronic health conditions, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and life transitions.
Dr. Sheri Goldstrohm has over 25 years of experience providing psychological services in diverse settings and across the age spectrum. She has experience in health psychology; crisis management and Critical Incident Stress Management; community mental health; integrated care; death, dying and bereavement; and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). Dr. Goldstrohm's areas of clinical expertise include women's issues, behavioral pain management, integrated care with a focus on maximizing health and wellness for individuals with chronic health conditions, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and life transitions.
(412) 212-0469 View (412) 212-0469
Photo of Kimberly June, LCSW, LMT, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly June
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMT, CST
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I treat chronic pain resulting from old injuries, traumatic brain injury, whiplash, chronic headache/migraine, concussion and facial trauma using Cranio-Sacral Therapy and Energy Integration and Alignment, a technique I developed over the past 5 years.
I am a holistic psychotherapist, trained in medical hypnotherapy,EMDR, Energy Psychology (TFT/EFT), Family Constellation work, and energy and shamanic healing in private practice in Pittsburgh. I work primarily with adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. I have trained extensively in the integration of different therapeutic modalities in order to facilitate healing and integration of the body, mind and spirit. I am also a student of meditation and teach the "Awakening the Light Body" meditation curriculum offered as both a pathway of personal transformation and as a therapeutic treatment model.
I treat chronic pain resulting from old injuries, traumatic brain injury, whiplash, chronic headache/migraine, concussion and facial trauma using Cranio-Sacral Therapy and Energy Integration and Alignment, a technique I developed over the past 5 years.
I am a holistic psychotherapist, trained in medical hypnotherapy,EMDR, Energy Psychology (TFT/EFT), Family Constellation work, and energy and shamanic healing in private practice in Pittsburgh. I work primarily with adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. I have trained extensively in the integration of different therapeutic modalities in order to facilitate healing and integration of the body, mind and spirit. I am also a student of meditation and teach the "Awakening the Light Body" meditation curriculum offered as both a pathway of personal transformation and as a therapeutic treatment model.
(724) 359-0802 View (724) 359-0802
Photo of Ann-Michele Corbi Potvin, MA, LPC, BC-DMT, GL-CMA, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ann-Michele Corbi Potvin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BC-DMT, GL-CMA, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15243
My thesis research was on the psychological/emotional aspects of chronic pain and I have experience in providing perinatal support.
I take a humanistic approach to therapy and believe that we make meaning out of the events of our lives; we are capable of engaging our creativity and its healing processes. There are times when we need support to pause, breathe, and listen to our inner wisdom. I will serve as a guide and support, encouraging you to maintain or regain ownership of your own life narrative. My approach is also contemplative, relational, and existential. I often utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to support you in decreasing struggle and living in alignment with your values.
My thesis research was on the psychological/emotional aspects of chronic pain and I have experience in providing perinatal support.
I take a humanistic approach to therapy and believe that we make meaning out of the events of our lives; we are capable of engaging our creativity and its healing processes. There are times when we need support to pause, breathe, and listen to our inner wisdom. I will serve as a guide and support, encouraging you to maintain or regain ownership of your own life narrative. My approach is also contemplative, relational, and existential. I often utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to support you in decreasing struggle and living in alignment with your values.
(215) 712-8116 View (215) 712-8116
Photo of Jan Lorraine Lee - Jan Lee Hypnosis, RN
Jan Lee Hypnosis
RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
I'm especially interested in helping with anxiety, grief, pain, self- esteem, bullying.
My clients sometimes don't know what else to do. They may have tried traditional interventions. They have anxiety, grief, pain, phobias, addictions, eating disorders. They may have heard about hypnosis but aren't sure what it is. They may be LGBTQ & find a society that won't embrace who they are. Most often, my clients feels lost, out of sync and want to feel better, think better and live better. They want to know how to take this tool of Hypnosis out of their "toolbox" & use it for life. They believe in mind over matter. They have the courage to ask for help.
I'm especially interested in helping with anxiety, grief, pain, self- esteem, bullying.
My clients sometimes don't know what else to do. They may have tried traditional interventions. They have anxiety, grief, pain, phobias, addictions, eating disorders. They may have heard about hypnosis but aren't sure what it is. They may be LGBTQ & find a society that won't embrace who they are. Most often, my clients feels lost, out of sync and want to feel better, think better and live better. They want to know how to take this tool of Hypnosis out of their "toolbox" & use it for life. They believe in mind over matter. They have the courage to ask for help.
(878) 216-0080 View (878) 216-0080
Photo of Alexandra Chadderdon, PsyD, Psychologist
Alexandra Chadderdon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I specialize in treating chronic pain and chronic illness. When working with clients with chronic pain and/or chronic illness, I focus on the concept of functional restoration. This means helping clients get back to doing the things that are most important to them and spending time with their loved ones. I use techniques that include activity pacing, relaxation exercises, hypnosis for pain control, and values clarification to help clients create a new and fulfilling life for themselves, even in the midst of pain and illness. I work collaboratively with clients to develop healthier coping strategies, and provide candid feedback.
I specialize in treating chronic pain and chronic illness. When working with clients with chronic pain and/or chronic illness, I focus on the concept of functional restoration. This means helping clients get back to doing the things that are most important to them and spending time with their loved ones. I use techniques that include activity pacing, relaxation exercises, hypnosis for pain control, and values clarification to help clients create a new and fulfilling life for themselves, even in the midst of pain and illness. I work collaboratively with clients to develop healthier coping strategies, and provide candid feedback.
(484) 897-7461 View (484) 897-7461
Photo of Brittany Shaffer, MSW , LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Shaffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I specialize in working with clients who have experienced childhood trauma, domestic/intimate partner violence or relationship challenges, chronic pain/ illness, and substance use issues. I also appreciate the beautiful tangents, metaphors, and insights from my work with neurodiverse clients. Much of my work focused on helping clients examine how trauma has shaped their lives, decisions, & current circumstances and find ways to heal. Finding meaning and insight from the connections and patterns we can see in the past and present is key to informing the work we can do together to pursue a more intentional and satisfying future.
I specialize in working with clients who have experienced childhood trauma, domestic/intimate partner violence or relationship challenges, chronic pain/ illness, and substance use issues. I also appreciate the beautiful tangents, metaphors, and insights from my work with neurodiverse clients. Much of my work focused on helping clients examine how trauma has shaped their lives, decisions, & current circumstances and find ways to heal. Finding meaning and insight from the connections and patterns we can see in the past and present is key to informing the work we can do together to pursue a more intentional and satisfying future.
(412) 732-7626 View (412) 732-7626
David E Levit
Psychologist, PSY
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I addition to providing psychotherapy for most mental health issues as well as stress management, I also have a Diplomate in pain management from the American Academy of Pain Management.
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh. I earned my doctorate at Nova University School of Professional Psychology, my Master's Degree at Duquesne University, and my Bachelor's Degree from Washington and Jefferson College. I completed an APA approved internship at the VA Medical Center in Salem Virginia. My almost thirty years experience is in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy, and have worked in private practice since 1985. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, anger management, ADD/ADHD/ODD, loss, behavioral management, and thought disorders.
I addition to providing psychotherapy for most mental health issues as well as stress management, I also have a Diplomate in pain management from the American Academy of Pain Management.
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh. I earned my doctorate at Nova University School of Professional Psychology, my Master's Degree at Duquesne University, and my Bachelor's Degree from Washington and Jefferson College. I completed an APA approved internship at the VA Medical Center in Salem Virginia. My almost thirty years experience is in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy, and have worked in private practice since 1985. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, anger management, ADD/ADHD/ODD, loss, behavioral management, and thought disorders.
(412) 906-9181 View (412) 906-9181
Photo of Katherine Hammond Holtz, PsyD, Psychologist
Katherine Hammond Holtz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals who are interested in promoting well-being in themselves and in relation to others. Mindfulness instruction is available as a key component of my therapy should this focus be desired. Studies have shown that a regular practice of mindfulness supports an enriched experience of life, feelings of well being, better ability to cope with stress and pain, reduced panic, anxiety, and fear and better concentration. I currently only offer tele-health, accessible from the comfort of your own home or office.
I enjoy working with individuals who are interested in promoting well-being in themselves and in relation to others. Mindfulness instruction is available as a key component of my therapy should this focus be desired. Studies have shown that a regular practice of mindfulness supports an enriched experience of life, feelings of well being, better ability to cope with stress and pain, reduced panic, anxiety, and fear and better concentration. I currently only offer tele-health, accessible from the comfort of your own home or office.
(412) 593-2307 View (412) 593-2307
Photo of Dr. Spiegel Freedman - Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates, Psychologist
Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
In our collective expertise and collaborative efforts, we provide psychological care for those who are struggling with: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Marital Issues, Family Conflict, Sleep Disturbance, Grief and Loss, Abuse Issues, Chronic Illness, Dementia, Gender Identity Issues, Women's Issues, Men's Issues.
The clinicians of Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates provide outpatient psychotherapeutic care to the people of the greater Pittsburgh area. We are committed to excellence and strive to provide our community with the highest quality of psychological services. We combine professional expertise with personal compassion in our therapeutic care. Our diverse staff and associates offer psychological evaluation and care for children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples and families.
In our collective expertise and collaborative efforts, we provide psychological care for those who are struggling with: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Marital Issues, Family Conflict, Sleep Disturbance, Grief and Loss, Abuse Issues, Chronic Illness, Dementia, Gender Identity Issues, Women's Issues, Men's Issues.
The clinicians of Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates provide outpatient psychotherapeutic care to the people of the greater Pittsburgh area. We are committed to excellence and strive to provide our community with the highest quality of psychological services. We combine professional expertise with personal compassion in our therapeutic care. Our diverse staff and associates offer psychological evaluation and care for children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples and families.
(412) 307-5806 x1 View (412) 307-5806 x1
Photo of Spencer Kilpatrick, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Spencer Kilpatrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235  (Online Only)
Connection to ourselves and others makes us feel whole. Ask yourself now, "Where are my people", "where do I feel as though I am authentically me"? Because mental un-health (our depressions, our anxieties) comes when we are disconnected from those spaces and people. Many factors can disconnect us: death, loss, transition, trauma, heartbreak, stress, abuse, illness, etc. I work with clients across diverse contexts to find reconnection and wholeness despite these disconnectors.
Connection to ourselves and others makes us feel whole. Ask yourself now, "Where are my people", "where do I feel as though I am authentically me"? Because mental un-health (our depressions, our anxieties) comes when we are disconnected from those spaces and people. Many factors can disconnect us: death, loss, transition, trauma, heartbreak, stress, abuse, illness, etc. I work with clients across diverse contexts to find reconnection and wholeness despite these disconnectors.
(724) 246-6657 View (724) 246-6657
Photo of Clara H Gautier, PhD, Psychologist
Clara H Gautier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
I am a clinical psychologist experienced in addressing anxiety, stress, depression, self esteem, relationship issues, adjustment to life changes, social isolation, trauma and PTSD, coping with pain and illnesses, and other challenges.
My aim is to form a supportive, accepting, and respectful relationship as the foundation for change. Through the development of new outlooks and skills, therapy can help us to get out of ruts, suffer less, enjoy more, and find life more satisfying.
I am a clinical psychologist experienced in addressing anxiety, stress, depression, self esteem, relationship issues, adjustment to life changes, social isolation, trauma and PTSD, coping with pain and illnesses, and other challenges.
My aim is to form a supportive, accepting, and respectful relationship as the foundation for change. Through the development of new outlooks and skills, therapy can help us to get out of ruts, suffer less, enjoy more, and find life more satisfying.
(412) 228-0706 View (412) 228-0706
Photo of Alicia Bisaha, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Bisaha
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I work with people who have experienced issues with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, pain, and relationships .
Is depression or anxiety keeping you from fully enjoying your life? Would you like to improve your relationships with family, friends, or others? Do you feel stressed or stuck? People seek therapy for many different reasons. Whatever the reason, it should be a life enhancing experience. I have assisted many individuals and families with these and other life issues and would like to help you!
I work with people who have experienced issues with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, pain, and relationships .
Is depression or anxiety keeping you from fully enjoying your life? Would you like to improve your relationships with family, friends, or others? Do you feel stressed or stuck? People seek therapy for many different reasons. Whatever the reason, it should be a life enhancing experience. I have assisted many individuals and families with these and other life issues and would like to help you!
(412) 228-0727 View (412) 228-0727
Photo of Stephanie M. Vargo, MA, BA
Stephanie M. Vargo
MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
I currently work with healing systems that have proven effective for issues like anxiety, trauma, addiction, chronic illness and pain, and spiritual crisis.
I offer experience, compassion and respect to all clients. I have over 35 years experience as a psychotherapist specializing in existentialism, philosophy, Ericksonian hypnosis, the treatment of addiction, trauma and loss. I am a Reiki Master and am trained in other mind/body/energy treatment modalities. I have taught existential/phenomenological philosophy and treatment classes. I specialize in mind/body work and can teach you to manage stress, increase awareness, gain confidence and overcome obstacles in your life. I have a gentle and powerful demeanor that increases energy and motivation. I offer a non-traditional approach.
I currently work with healing systems that have proven effective for issues like anxiety, trauma, addiction, chronic illness and pain, and spiritual crisis.
I offer experience, compassion and respect to all clients. I have over 35 years experience as a psychotherapist specializing in existentialism, philosophy, Ericksonian hypnosis, the treatment of addiction, trauma and loss. I am a Reiki Master and am trained in other mind/body/energy treatment modalities. I have taught existential/phenomenological philosophy and treatment classes. I specialize in mind/body work and can teach you to manage stress, increase awareness, gain confidence and overcome obstacles in your life. I have a gentle and powerful demeanor that increases energy and motivation. I offer a non-traditional approach.
(412) 253-4569 View (412) 253-4569
Photo of Christine Paul, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Christine Paul
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to adapt to a new chronic medical illness or physical disability? I am a seasoned psychologist who works primarily with adults and elders. Individuals who may seek treatment from may be experiencing depression, anxiety, emotional difficulty adapting to a new chronic medical illness, grieving the loss of a previous ability, struggle coping to life transitions and/or caring for a loved one with medical illness. My goal is to work collaboratively with you to address the various factors contributing to how you feel, help to develop the tools and insight necessary to find value, adapt, and thrive!
Are you struggling to adapt to a new chronic medical illness or physical disability? I am a seasoned psychologist who works primarily with adults and elders. Individuals who may seek treatment from may be experiencing depression, anxiety, emotional difficulty adapting to a new chronic medical illness, grieving the loss of a previous ability, struggle coping to life transitions and/or caring for a loved one with medical illness. My goal is to work collaboratively with you to address the various factors contributing to how you feel, help to develop the tools and insight necessary to find value, adapt, and thrive!
(412) 668-5767 View (412) 668-5767
Photo of Emani Wade, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emani Wade
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15205  (Online Only)
I have 8 years of additional experience helping adults face racial and gender identity and affirmation, grief, anxiety (depression following anxiety), PTSD, couples counseling with traditional and nontraditional relationship dynamics, chronic illness, women issues, and college academic stress.
Hi, I am Emani from Focus Therapy LLC. Focus is a mental wellness practice that provides BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S+, and young working professionals who struggle with imposter syndrome a safe, positive, and nonjudgmental space. At Focus, your intersected identities matter and you do not have to choose one to fit in. The most valuable work in transforming your care lies in our work together through a collaborative effort to explore supportive values that inspire you to cultivate what makes you passionate, nurturing, and happy. By validating inner strengths, individuals can become more aware of the great value they hold as human beings.
I have 8 years of additional experience helping adults face racial and gender identity and affirmation, grief, anxiety (depression following anxiety), PTSD, couples counseling with traditional and nontraditional relationship dynamics, chronic illness, women issues, and college academic stress.
Hi, I am Emani from Focus Therapy LLC. Focus is a mental wellness practice that provides BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S+, and young working professionals who struggle with imposter syndrome a safe, positive, and nonjudgmental space. At Focus, your intersected identities matter and you do not have to choose one to fit in. The most valuable work in transforming your care lies in our work together through a collaborative effort to explore supportive values that inspire you to cultivate what makes you passionate, nurturing, and happy. By validating inner strengths, individuals can become more aware of the great value they hold as human beings.
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Photo of Dorothy L Ingram - Peace and Perspective Counseling, LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peace and Perspective Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I specialize in addressing addiction, trauma, life transitions, grief/loss, chronic pain/medical issues, depression and anxiety among other life concerns.
Please note the location change! In these times of uncertainty, everyone could use a little support. As a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment, I'm here to support you, whether you're looking to learn how to better manage stress, a chronic health condition, heal trauma, resolve family conflict, substance abuse/dependency, grief/loss, or manage a mood disorder. We partner together to tailor therapy that addresses your individual needs. Change is always possible and I'd be honored to be a part of your journey.
I specialize in addressing addiction, trauma, life transitions, grief/loss, chronic pain/medical issues, depression and anxiety among other life concerns.
Please note the location change! In these times of uncertainty, everyone could use a little support. As a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment, I'm here to support you, whether you're looking to learn how to better manage stress, a chronic health condition, heal trauma, resolve family conflict, substance abuse/dependency, grief/loss, or manage a mood disorder. We partner together to tailor therapy that addresses your individual needs. Change is always possible and I'd be honored to be a part of your journey.
(878) 216-0339 View (878) 216-0339
Photo of Elana Manolis Gonzalez - A Wellness Place, LCSW, MSW, OSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Wellness Place
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, OSW-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
Feelings of anxiety and depression are very common in those managing an illness, and caregivers of those managing an illness.
After working 11 years in a local hospital and then providing home palliative services for 9 years, my strengths are working with those navigating illness and the healthcare system. There are many challenges related to illness, and every illness and person cope differently. My goal is to assist you through this process to help ensure that your needs are met based on where you are emotionally, mentally, physically, spiritually, and to improve quality of life.
Feelings of anxiety and depression are very common in those managing an illness, and caregivers of those managing an illness.
After working 11 years in a local hospital and then providing home palliative services for 9 years, my strengths are working with those navigating illness and the healthcare system. There are many challenges related to illness, and every illness and person cope differently. My goal is to assist you through this process to help ensure that your needs are met based on where you are emotionally, mentally, physically, spiritually, and to improve quality of life.
(412) 223-8736 View (412) 223-8736
Photo of Gwen F Melnick, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen F Melnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
(412) 356-9859 View (412) 356-9859
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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.