Chronic Pain Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Emily Flick, MA, LMHCA
Emily Flick
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I focus primarily on providing support to the LGBTQ+ community, of which I am a member myself. Additionally, I have experience working with individuals that are experiencing debilitating chronic pain, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, grief and emotional abuse. My services include trauma informed care, and support that is personalized. I enjoy finding unique ways to help with balancing the nervous system including mindfulness techniques, breathwork, and art therapy. I do not believe that there is one way that will work for everyone & strive to tailor the tools provided on your healing journey to meet your individual needs.
I focus primarily on providing support to the LGBTQ+ community, of which I am a member myself. Additionally, I have experience working with individuals that are experiencing debilitating chronic pain, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, grief and emotional abuse. My services include trauma informed care, and support that is personalized. I enjoy finding unique ways to help with balancing the nervous system including mindfulness techniques, breathwork, and art therapy. I do not believe that there is one way that will work for everyone & strive to tailor the tools provided on your healing journey to meet your individual needs.
(206) 472-1718 View (206) 472-1718
Photo of Moriah Brier, PhD, Psychologist
Moriah Brier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Specific treatments include CBT for anxiety and depression, CBT-Insomnia, CBT- Chronic Pain, & Cognitive Processing Therapy.
My goal is to help you become more at ease with yourself and your emotions so that you can feel less daunted by the day-to-day, experience more fulfilling relationships, and be more productive in the domains of life that matter to you. I primarily treat anxiety, depression, chronic pain, insomnia, and trauma. My approach focuses on heightening your awareness of the thoughts, negative core beliefs, and behaviors that get in your way and helping you master strategies to address them. This is done within the framework of a relationship in which you feel supported, accepted, and heard.
Specific treatments include CBT for anxiety and depression, CBT-Insomnia, CBT- Chronic Pain, & Cognitive Processing Therapy.
My goal is to help you become more at ease with yourself and your emotions so that you can feel less daunted by the day-to-day, experience more fulfilling relationships, and be more productive in the domains of life that matter to you. I primarily treat anxiety, depression, chronic pain, insomnia, and trauma. My approach focuses on heightening your awareness of the thoughts, negative core beliefs, and behaviors that get in your way and helping you master strategies to address them. This is done within the framework of a relationship in which you feel supported, accepted, and heard.
(206) 202-5244 View (206) 202-5244
Photo of Sarah Sapp, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Sarah Sapp
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I began this work after realizing my own chronic pain had emotional needs and hope to offer support to others on their own journey of discovery.
There are so many reasons why you might be seeking therapy. Feeling overwhelmed and unable to manage your internal experience? Maybe you feel like your pain is controlling you or you're feeling isolated and stuck. No matter where you are in your journey, I am ready to join you. Starting this process can be overwhelming, and I'm grateful for your courage to pursue this work. Your voice, pain, and experience matter. Through the therapeutic process, we can build a safe space that enables you to believe in your voice, clarify your individual values, improve your self-worth and empower you to build the life you want and deserve.
I began this work after realizing my own chronic pain had emotional needs and hope to offer support to others on their own journey of discovery.
There are so many reasons why you might be seeking therapy. Feeling overwhelmed and unable to manage your internal experience? Maybe you feel like your pain is controlling you or you're feeling isolated and stuck. No matter where you are in your journey, I am ready to join you. Starting this process can be overwhelming, and I'm grateful for your courage to pursue this work. Your voice, pain, and experience matter. Through the therapeutic process, we can build a safe space that enables you to believe in your voice, clarify your individual values, improve your self-worth and empower you to build the life you want and deserve.
(425) 209-1914 View (425) 209-1914
Photo of Genelle Benker (Owner Of: Embodied Psychology), PsyD, RYT, Psychologist
Genelle Benker (Owner Of: Embodied Psychology)
Psychologist, PsyD, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
Committed to being an ally and haven, I am aware that chronic micro aggressions to systemic oppression can itself cause mental illness.
I am a doctor of clinical psychology who specializes in the treatment of PTSD, Mood Disorders, and in particular Bipolar Disorder. I also treat moral pain, or the distress felt when one's actions or circumstances are not aligned with one's values. While I provide a warm and safe therapeutic environment, I am also confrontational when needed. Driven by an appreciation for seeing people step into their full potential, I am unique in my integrative embodied approach. Augmenting gold standard methods like EMDR and IPT, I draw upon my extensive education in Yoga and Alternative Medicine. Expect to do more than talk therapy!
Committed to being an ally and haven, I am aware that chronic micro aggressions to systemic oppression can itself cause mental illness.
I am a doctor of clinical psychology who specializes in the treatment of PTSD, Mood Disorders, and in particular Bipolar Disorder. I also treat moral pain, or the distress felt when one's actions or circumstances are not aligned with one's values. While I provide a warm and safe therapeutic environment, I am also confrontational when needed. Driven by an appreciation for seeing people step into their full potential, I am unique in my integrative embodied approach. Augmenting gold standard methods like EMDR and IPT, I draw upon my extensive education in Yoga and Alternative Medicine. Expect to do more than talk therapy!
(206) 207-7736 View (206) 207-7736
Photo of Jill Cole, DSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
I have had specialized training and years of work experience in the areas of scute and chronic illness, bereavement, and all aspects of adoption--domestic/international.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (with a doctorate from Columbia University) with over 40 years of practice experience with children, families, couples, and adults. My approach to our work is "psychodynamic" and I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. I am open to consultation, crisis intervention, short term therapy, and more intensive, insight oriented treatment. The "ideal client" is the one who is willing to work hard. So am I!
I have had specialized training and years of work experience in the areas of scute and chronic illness, bereavement, and all aspects of adoption--domestic/international.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (with a doctorate from Columbia University) with over 40 years of practice experience with children, families, couples, and adults. My approach to our work is "psychodynamic" and I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. I am open to consultation, crisis intervention, short term therapy, and more intensive, insight oriented treatment. The "ideal client" is the one who is willing to work hard. So am I!
(855) 463-3711 View (855) 463-3711
Photo of Michael R Allison, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Michael R Allison
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
I specialize in working with adolescent identity issues, anxiety, depression, attachment problems, interpersonal communication, intimacy issues, relational trauma, & chronic physical illness, especially Type 1 diabetes.
My approach to therapy is relational, psychodynamic and humanistic. I view the counseling process as a collaborative and empathic relationship of communication, investigation, exploration, reflection and insight. I believe it is the therapeutic relationship itself that is most important in creating the conditions for the deep exploratory work of psychotherapy, and discovering the possibility of self transformation.
I specialize in working with adolescent identity issues, anxiety, depression, attachment problems, interpersonal communication, intimacy issues, relational trauma, & chronic physical illness, especially Type 1 diabetes.
My approach to therapy is relational, psychodynamic and humanistic. I view the counseling process as a collaborative and empathic relationship of communication, investigation, exploration, reflection and insight. I believe it is the therapeutic relationship itself that is most important in creating the conditions for the deep exploratory work of psychotherapy, and discovering the possibility of self transformation.
(206) 673-5326 View (206) 673-5326
Photo of Jamie Keyes, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Jamie Keyes
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
-Adult, including ADOS & ADI Gold Standard Approach) >ADHD >Anxiety/Depression/Mood Issues >Trauma / PTSD >Behavioral Problems >Family Treatment / Adjustment Problems >Cognitive Evaluation - From Academic; Learning Post-Concussion Issues to Dementia > Chronic Pain; L& I / Worker's Compensation.
October 2024 – I’m Moving my Practice – See Address North Seattle Practice is primarily full (few AM times, none after school). AM available for COGnitive (dementia; adhd; learning) & Autism Evaluations. I am one of a dozen Board Certified Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychologists in Washington. I specialize in working on the types of thoughts, feelings and actions that can help us ... or alternatively are creating problems in our lives. I would utilize evidence based approaches proven to work, & tailor those to the unique & individual situation going on in your life, working toward solutions that make things run more smoothly.
-Adult, including ADOS & ADI Gold Standard Approach) >ADHD >Anxiety/Depression/Mood Issues >Trauma / PTSD >Behavioral Problems >Family Treatment / Adjustment Problems >Cognitive Evaluation - From Academic; Learning Post-Concussion Issues to Dementia > Chronic Pain; L& I / Worker's Compensation.
October 2024 – I’m Moving my Practice – See Address North Seattle Practice is primarily full (few AM times, none after school). AM available for COGnitive (dementia; adhd; learning) & Autism Evaluations. I am one of a dozen Board Certified Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychologists in Washington. I specialize in working on the types of thoughts, feelings and actions that can help us ... or alternatively are creating problems in our lives. I would utilize evidence based approaches proven to work, & tailor those to the unique & individual situation going on in your life, working toward solutions that make things run more smoothly.
(425) 276-6752 View (425) 276-6752
Photo of Dr. Vanessa Wall, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Vanessa Wall
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116
I provide evidence-based therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness-based Therapies, and Clinical Hypnosis for adults experiencing chronic pain, anxiety, depression, attention difficulties, adjustment stress associated with new or chronic injury or diagnosis, and sleep concerns.
Hello, I’m Dr. Vanessa Wall, a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in neurorehabilitation and chronic pain. I work with individuals with a history of stroke, TBI, orthopedic injury, or neurodegenerative diagnosis, as well as anyone dealing with health-related concerns. I also help individuals navigate the uncertainty that can come with symptoms that do not have a clear diagnosis. My client-centered approach to therapy means that your experiences and goals will guide our sessions. I bring my experience in clinical research to my work as a psychologist, incorporating current research findings into my work.
I provide evidence-based therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness-based Therapies, and Clinical Hypnosis for adults experiencing chronic pain, anxiety, depression, attention difficulties, adjustment stress associated with new or chronic injury or diagnosis, and sleep concerns.
Hello, I’m Dr. Vanessa Wall, a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in neurorehabilitation and chronic pain. I work with individuals with a history of stroke, TBI, orthopedic injury, or neurodegenerative diagnosis, as well as anyone dealing with health-related concerns. I also help individuals navigate the uncertainty that can come with symptoms that do not have a clear diagnosis. My client-centered approach to therapy means that your experiences and goals will guide our sessions. I bring my experience in clinical research to my work as a psychologist, incorporating current research findings into my work.
(253) 303-5925 View (253) 303-5925
Photo of Aaron Parker, PsyD, Psychologist
Aaron Parker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Waitlist for new clients
You are on the verge of taking a brave step. Perhaps you have encountered a new challenge, or have realized you need a new way of coping with an old problem. Often this is a moment of crisis, and at the same time, an opportunity to learn and to grow. I am passionate about working with clients who are coping with major life changes. If a medical condition (e.g. brain injury, post-concussion syndrome, stroke, spinal injury, chronic dizziness/ pain, chronic illness or critical illness/COVID) has affected you or your loved one, or if your quality of life is impacted by treatable conditions such as PTSD or anxiety, we may be a good fit.
You are on the verge of taking a brave step. Perhaps you have encountered a new challenge, or have realized you need a new way of coping with an old problem. Often this is a moment of crisis, and at the same time, an opportunity to learn and to grow. I am passionate about working with clients who are coping with major life changes. If a medical condition (e.g. brain injury, post-concussion syndrome, stroke, spinal injury, chronic dizziness/ pain, chronic illness or critical illness/COVID) has affected you or your loved one, or if your quality of life is impacted by treatable conditions such as PTSD or anxiety, we may be a good fit.
(833) 950-1872 View (833) 950-1872
Photo of Hannah King, LMHCA
Hannah King
Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I identify as disabled and neurodivergent, and my own experiences with chronic pain led me to pursue a career dedicated to alleviating its impact on mental health.
Are you struggling to navigate the complexities of chronic pain, chronic illness, neurodivergence, or chronic anxiety? Together, we can explore effective coping mechanisms and cultivate a stronger sense of self-compassion. You don't need to change yourself to fit into a neurotypical and ableist world. Let's work together to identify your strengths, clarify your values, and find accommodations for whatever is distressing you instead so you can reclaim a sense of peace in your life. By focusing on the connection between the mind and body, you'll learn skills to calm your nervous system and increase awareness of patterns of tension.
I identify as disabled and neurodivergent, and my own experiences with chronic pain led me to pursue a career dedicated to alleviating its impact on mental health.
Are you struggling to navigate the complexities of chronic pain, chronic illness, neurodivergence, or chronic anxiety? Together, we can explore effective coping mechanisms and cultivate a stronger sense of self-compassion. You don't need to change yourself to fit into a neurotypical and ableist world. Let's work together to identify your strengths, clarify your values, and find accommodations for whatever is distressing you instead so you can reclaim a sense of peace in your life. By focusing on the connection between the mind and body, you'll learn skills to calm your nervous system and increase awareness of patterns of tension.
(206) 355-6134 View (206) 355-6134
Photo of Dr. Melissa Ellsworth, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Melissa Ellsworth
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with individuals & couples struggling with chronic pain, OCD and health anxiety, sexual and relational difficulties, gender identity and other LGBTQ+ issues, developmental trauma, attachment issues & faith transitions.
Do you ever feel stuck in a body that doesn't feel, act or look the way you want it to? Does it feel like your brain and body are out of sync? Whether it be chronic pain, sexual difficulties or gender incongruence - I'm here to help you get your mind and body back into alignment. As a queer and neurodivergent clinical psychologist, I will tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, and offer the tools and support you need to feel less pain, more sexual freedom and gender affirmation.
I work with individuals & couples struggling with chronic pain, OCD and health anxiety, sexual and relational difficulties, gender identity and other LGBTQ+ issues, developmental trauma, attachment issues & faith transitions.
Do you ever feel stuck in a body that doesn't feel, act or look the way you want it to? Does it feel like your brain and body are out of sync? Whether it be chronic pain, sexual difficulties or gender incongruence - I'm here to help you get your mind and body back into alignment. As a queer and neurodivergent clinical psychologist, I will tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, and offer the tools and support you need to feel less pain, more sexual freedom and gender affirmation.
(971) 396-3205 View (971) 396-3205
Photo of Chaitra Elise Devereaux - Inner Peace Counseling, PsyD, Psychologist
Inner Peace Counseling
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
The daily struggles of life, loss, relationships, and health are real. But we are not supposed to face them alone. We may not choose the pain that comes our way, but we can choose how we respond. Inner peace and strength are gifts from God — gifts that are within our reach. I will partner with you in your journey toward healing, providing the resources and space you need to apply faith and skill in everyday life.
The daily struggles of life, loss, relationships, and health are real. But we are not supposed to face them alone. We may not choose the pain that comes our way, but we can choose how we respond. Inner peace and strength are gifts from God — gifts that are within our reach. I will partner with you in your journey toward healing, providing the resources and space you need to apply faith and skill in everyday life.
(206) 208-0278 View (206) 208-0278
Photo of Lynn Crothers, MA, LCMHCA, LMHCA
Lynn Crothers
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
I support adults navigating a variety of issues, including chronic pain and chronic illness, dissociative conditions, depression and grief, complex trauma, relationship challenges, searches for meaning, and family of origin concerns. Trained in depth psychology, I am an ideal fit for anyone who is engaged in the process of self-understanding, curious about life, and seeking to be known. I believe the potential for deep healing, connection, and revitalization exists within this work. My approach, while holistic, is rooted in relational psychoanalysis and the belief that talking—about questions and issues that matter—leads to change.
I support adults navigating a variety of issues, including chronic pain and chronic illness, dissociative conditions, depression and grief, complex trauma, relationship challenges, searches for meaning, and family of origin concerns. Trained in depth psychology, I am an ideal fit for anyone who is engaged in the process of self-understanding, curious about life, and seeking to be known. I believe the potential for deep healing, connection, and revitalization exists within this work. My approach, while holistic, is rooted in relational psychoanalysis and the belief that talking—about questions and issues that matter—leads to change.
(828) 547-4679 View (828) 547-4679
Photo of Trevor Davis, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Trevor Davis
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Waitlist for new clients
I am board-certified in Rehabilitation Psychology, with over 15 years of experience helping people who have chronic medical conditions, including chronic pain.
Do you need help managing pain and living more fully? With a primary focus on managing chronic pain or other chronic illnesses, I work collaboratively to help people see where they can increase control and connect to what matters most to them. I specialize in rehabilitation psychology, pain psychology, and supporting people in their recovery after injury and/or with chronic medical conditions. Often people work with me to address experiences of trauma, grief, and loss related to injuries and health conditions. I use evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I am board-certified in Rehabilitation Psychology, with over 15 years of experience helping people who have chronic medical conditions, including chronic pain.
Do you need help managing pain and living more fully? With a primary focus on managing chronic pain or other chronic illnesses, I work collaboratively to help people see where they can increase control and connect to what matters most to them. I specialize in rehabilitation psychology, pain psychology, and supporting people in their recovery after injury and/or with chronic medical conditions. Often people work with me to address experiences of trauma, grief, and loss related to injuries and health conditions. I use evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
(970) 367-1613 View (970) 367-1613
Photo of Mirna Mejia, PhD, Psychologist
Mirna Mejia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
My goal as a therapist is to help every client achieve a more balanced and meaningful life. Whether it's by helping you sleep better, manage your pain more effectively, or facilitate the healing process following a trauma, my aim is to ease suffering and get you back on track to health & resiliency.
My goal as a therapist is to help every client achieve a more balanced and meaningful life. Whether it's by helping you sleep better, manage your pain more effectively, or facilitate the healing process following a trauma, my aim is to ease suffering and get you back on track to health & resiliency.
(858) 667-4150 View (858) 667-4150
Photo of Kelly Hutton - Kelly Hutton, Chronic pain and illness therapist, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Hutton, Chronic pain and illness therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
I work with individuals and couples/families around these issues and work specifically with couples and families around the changing in roles, caregiving/care partners, and marital or family issues/dynamics around illness or pain.
Welcome! Do you have chronic pain, chronic fatigue, or chronic illness you are managing? Or, do you love someone or care for someone with these issues? If so, you are in the right place. I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic illness, medical trauma, neurocognitive issues (memory). Living with pain/ illness comes with enormous grief, and it can be incredibly lonely. You might find you are irritable, have trouble with sleeping, can't concentrate or focus or struggle with daily tasks that used to be easy. Your relationships might be suffering as you can't show up how you used to. I am here to support you.
I work with individuals and couples/families around these issues and work specifically with couples and families around the changing in roles, caregiving/care partners, and marital or family issues/dynamics around illness or pain.
Welcome! Do you have chronic pain, chronic fatigue, or chronic illness you are managing? Or, do you love someone or care for someone with these issues? If so, you are in the right place. I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic illness, medical trauma, neurocognitive issues (memory). Living with pain/ illness comes with enormous grief, and it can be incredibly lonely. You might find you are irritable, have trouble with sleeping, can't concentrate or focus or struggle with daily tasks that used to be easy. Your relationships might be suffering as you can't show up how you used to. I am here to support you.
(619) 853-5083 View (619) 853-5083
Photo of Kelly Hutton - Kelly Hutton, Grief Therapist , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Hutton, Grief Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
As a queer therapist, I love working with the LGBTQIA+ community around grief, loss, aging, and chronic illness.
Welcome! I imagine you have found my profile because you are going through grief, illness or tragedy. I am glad you are here taking the first steps towards support. I specialize in working with grief, loss, end of life issues and chronic illness. Grief therapy can look many different ways, and I tailor the experience of therapy to my clients unique needs. My top priority is that you feel safe in therapy and have space to feel and express your grief openly. I use many modalities to assist my clients in working through grief, including EMDR therapy (eye movement therapy) which is an evidence based treatment for trauma and grief.
As a queer therapist, I love working with the LGBTQIA+ community around grief, loss, aging, and chronic illness.
Welcome! I imagine you have found my profile because you are going through grief, illness or tragedy. I am glad you are here taking the first steps towards support. I specialize in working with grief, loss, end of life issues and chronic illness. Grief therapy can look many different ways, and I tailor the experience of therapy to my clients unique needs. My top priority is that you feel safe in therapy and have space to feel and express your grief openly. I use many modalities to assist my clients in working through grief, including EMDR therapy (eye movement therapy) which is an evidence based treatment for trauma and grief.
(619) 745-1989 View (619) 745-1989
Photo of Cory D Secrist - Cory D. Secrist, PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Cory D. Secrist, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I further trained in rehabilitation psychology during an internship/residency at Harborview Medical Center, working with patients immediately after traumatic injury, during intensive rehabilitation, and with chronic pain.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with adults and adolescents. I specialize in helping those with issues related to depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, and chronic pain. I support people struggling with relationship and communication difficulties, grief, pervasive worry, intrusive thoughts, and overwhelming feelings. I empower clients to gain the skills needed to reach their goals, understand and regulate their emotions, and improve mindfulness and acceptance through a nonjudgmental and collaborative approach. I also provide supportive and affirmative therapy to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender clients. I am available to assist transgender clients in attaining transitioning services.
I further trained in rehabilitation psychology during an internship/residency at Harborview Medical Center, working with patients immediately after traumatic injury, during intensive rehabilitation, and with chronic pain.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with adults and adolescents. I specialize in helping those with issues related to depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, and chronic pain. I support people struggling with relationship and communication difficulties, grief, pervasive worry, intrusive thoughts, and overwhelming feelings. I empower clients to gain the skills needed to reach their goals, understand and regulate their emotions, and improve mindfulness and acceptance through a nonjudgmental and collaborative approach. I also provide supportive and affirmative therapy to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender clients. I am available to assist transgender clients in attaining transitioning services.
(206) 717-8321 View (206) 717-8321
Photo of Carrie Farrell - Training the Complete Athlete, LPC, Counselor
Training the Complete Athlete
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
The focus of Training the Complete Athlete is to serve teens and young adults with a variety of mental health concerns. Our primary focus is working with athletes and other high performers, but we also work with families, adults and clients that deal with medical issues or chronic pain. We want our clients to feel heard and gain the skills to make a change and re-enter their life with confidence, skills and a sense of self-control.
The focus of Training the Complete Athlete is to serve teens and young adults with a variety of mental health concerns. Our primary focus is working with athletes and other high performers, but we also work with families, adults and clients that deal with medical issues or chronic pain. We want our clients to feel heard and gain the skills to make a change and re-enter their life with confidence, skills and a sense of self-control.
(360) 646-2335 View (360) 646-2335
Photo of Stephen Boyd, PhD, Psychologist
Stephen Boyd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have specialized training in health psychology, treating conditions such as insomnia, chronic pain, tinnitus, and smoking cessation.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adults and adolescents with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and alcohol use. My approach is highly interpersonal and humanistic. This means that I adopt a compassionate and non-judgmental view with my clients, and strive to build a relationship of trust and understanding. I exclusively use evidenced-based treatments that have been thoroughly tested and found to be effective for improving mental health concerns. Together, we will develop new ways for you to cope with and resolve the issues that prompted you to seek care.
I have specialized training in health psychology, treating conditions such as insomnia, chronic pain, tinnitus, and smoking cessation.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adults and adolescents with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and alcohol use. My approach is highly interpersonal and humanistic. This means that I adopt a compassionate and non-judgmental view with my clients, and strive to build a relationship of trust and understanding. I exclusively use evidenced-based treatments that have been thoroughly tested and found to be effective for improving mental health concerns. Together, we will develop new ways for you to cope with and resolve the issues that prompted you to seek care.
View
1
...
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.