Chronic Pain Therapists in Milwaukee, WI

Photo of Elizabeth Popowski, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Elizabeth Popowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Isn’t life strange? We are collectively engaging in this experience, yet more often than not, it can feel lonely, isolating, and too complex to share. We age, we lose loved ones, we grieve. But without these, could there be compassion? Would we experience life as deeply? Two things can be true at the same time, and I want to facilitate these new perspectives. I want to process the hard things alongside you. I want to hear your experience of life. I want to know what holds you back and what helps you feel whole. You matter. Your experience matters, and I would be honored to help guide you as you make this journey.
Isn’t life strange? We are collectively engaging in this experience, yet more often than not, it can feel lonely, isolating, and too complex to share. We age, we lose loved ones, we grieve. But without these, could there be compassion? Would we experience life as deeply? Two things can be true at the same time, and I want to facilitate these new perspectives. I want to process the hard things alongside you. I want to hear your experience of life. I want to know what holds you back and what helps you feel whole. You matter. Your experience matters, and I would be honored to help guide you as you make this journey.
(608) 470-8377 View (608) 470-8377
Photo of Kal Wogahn, Counselor, MA, LPC
Kal Wogahn
Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel overwhelmed by emotions or physical symptoms, such as hopelessness, pain, or panic?
I believe that our bodies and brains heal best through experiencing relationships that feel nourishing and safe. I incorporate EMDR, somatic, and attachment therapies in my work, and am grounded in an understanding of how trauma and oppression impact the nervous system and the body.
Do you feel overwhelmed by emotions or physical symptoms, such as hopelessness, pain, or panic?
I believe that our bodies and brains heal best through experiencing relationships that feel nourishing and safe. I incorporate EMDR, somatic, and attachment therapies in my work, and am grounded in an understanding of how trauma and oppression impact the nervous system and the body.
(608) 655-6778 View (608) 655-6778
Photo of Alex Robison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Alex Robison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My areas of interest and focus include clients who are experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, and/or trauma. I work well with clients that struggle with identifying purpose and their own strengths and values. It is important to me to engage with my clients in an empathetic, kind, and gentle way.
My areas of interest and focus include clients who are experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, and/or trauma. I work well with clients that struggle with identifying purpose and their own strengths and values. It is important to me to engage with my clients in an empathetic, kind, and gentle way.
(952) 900-4184 View (952) 900-4184
Photo of Bob Rockey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Bob Rockey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Online Only
Since 1980 I have served those struggling with mental illness and personal problems in greater Milwaukee.
With years of hospital and medical background, I am experienced with pain and many types of medical conditions, physical and emotional disabilities, and acute and chronic mental illness. I often use a blend of Solution Focus, Cognitive Behavioral, 12 Step and other therapies to fit the needs at hand. (A sense of humor helps, too!)
Since 1980 I have served those struggling with mental illness and personal problems in greater Milwaukee.
With years of hospital and medical background, I am experienced with pain and many types of medical conditions, physical and emotional disabilities, and acute and chronic mental illness. I often use a blend of Solution Focus, Cognitive Behavioral, 12 Step and other therapies to fit the needs at hand. (A sense of humor helps, too!)
(414) 312-5531 View (414) 312-5531
Photo of Sara Rahn, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Sara Rahn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53211
I specialize in working with individuals navigating complex trauma, anxiety, chronic stress, and mind-body disconnection. I’m a trauma-trained therapist who also identifies as a person with a physical disability, which informs my work in a deeply compassionate, disability-affirming way. Many of my clients come to me wanting a therapist who truly understands the intersection of mental health, trauma, and identity—and who supports healing without forcing a one-size-fits-all approach. My practice centers on creating a space where you can feel grounded, understood, and gently challenged.
I specialize in working with individuals navigating complex trauma, anxiety, chronic stress, and mind-body disconnection. I’m a trauma-trained therapist who also identifies as a person with a physical disability, which informs my work in a deeply compassionate, disability-affirming way. Many of my clients come to me wanting a therapist who truly understands the intersection of mental health, trauma, and identity—and who supports healing without forcing a one-size-fits-all approach. My practice centers on creating a space where you can feel grounded, understood, and gently challenged.
(414) 897-9652 View (414) 897-9652
Photo of Michele M Mastalarz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Michele M Mastalarz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
My professional goal is to provide a compassionate and supportive therapy environment for persons with mental health and behavioral challenges. My hope is to provide a safe, secure and comfortable space during your time of healing and exploration.
My professional goal is to provide a compassionate and supportive therapy environment for persons with mental health and behavioral challenges. My hope is to provide a safe, secure and comfortable space during your time of healing and exploration.
(262) 584-4977 View (262) 584-4977
Photo of Erin Spensley, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Erin Spensley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
It's not easy to decide to start therapy, and it's not easy to find the right therapist for you. I'm proud of you for being here and taking this first step! I take a collaborative, client-centered approach to therapy, where we will work together on your unique needs and goals. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help you identify and change thought and behavior patterns and allow you to set the pace. This approach gives you tools to manage thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. I also use mindfulness techniques like grounding exercises and deep breathing, as well as meditation, and even moving and stretching to begin the session.
It's not easy to decide to start therapy, and it's not easy to find the right therapist for you. I'm proud of you for being here and taking this first step! I take a collaborative, client-centered approach to therapy, where we will work together on your unique needs and goals. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help you identify and change thought and behavior patterns and allow you to set the pace. This approach gives you tools to manage thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. I also use mindfulness techniques like grounding exercises and deep breathing, as well as meditation, and even moving and stretching to begin the session.
(414) 897-9078 View (414) 897-9078
Photo of Jacquelyn Nasby, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jacquelyn Nasby
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I utilize eclectic and collaborative methods in counseling, approaching clients’ needs from emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual lenses. With a passion for art and music, I encourage the use of creative expression in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy, providing an environment for clients to be heard on both verbal and non-verbal platforms. I take a humanistic approach, working along with clients to engage them in treatment and create individualized plans to reach their goals.
I utilize eclectic and collaborative methods in counseling, approaching clients’ needs from emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual lenses. With a passion for art and music, I encourage the use of creative expression in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy, providing an environment for clients to be heard on both verbal and non-verbal platforms. I take a humanistic approach, working along with clients to engage them in treatment and create individualized plans to reach their goals.
(414) 667-7009 View (414) 667-7009
Photo of Tanya Kraege, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Tanya Kraege
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Online Only
If you're exploring wellness, carrying trauma, or navigating a big life shift, you don’t have to do it alone. I support adults seeking healing, stability, and self-trust — even if they’re unsure where to begin. My approach is warm, trauma-responsive, and grounded in lived experience. Together, we move at your soul’s pace, exploring your story without judgment and building tools for resilience, connection, and hope.
If you're exploring wellness, carrying trauma, or navigating a big life shift, you don’t have to do it alone. I support adults seeking healing, stability, and self-trust — even if they’re unsure where to begin. My approach is warm, trauma-responsive, and grounded in lived experience. Together, we move at your soul’s pace, exploring your story without judgment and building tools for resilience, connection, and hope.
(414) 677-6217 View (414) 677-6217
Photo of Brandon Wells - Shoreside Therapies, MS, LPC
Shoreside Therapies
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Taking that first step into counseling can be a daunting task. At Shoreside we will make those first steps as smooth as possible. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, marital issues, life adjustments or any other issues that are challenging our goal is promote your health and well being in a way that suits you. We have seasoned compassionate professionals that treat clients of all ages, backgrounds and sexual orientations. We will meet you on your journey to better health exactly where you are and work together to provide you with the necessary tools to reach your goals.
Taking that first step into counseling can be a daunting task. At Shoreside we will make those first steps as smooth as possible. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, marital issues, life adjustments or any other issues that are challenging our goal is promote your health and well being in a way that suits you. We have seasoned compassionate professionals that treat clients of all ages, backgrounds and sexual orientations. We will meet you on your journey to better health exactly where you are and work together to provide you with the necessary tools to reach your goals.
(414) 867-6749 View (414) 867-6749
Photo of Laura Ramos - LifeStance Health, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
LifeStance Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Milwaukee, WI 53207
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(414) 404-7148 View (414) 404-7148
Photo of Jessica J. Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Jessica J. Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also work with clients on mindfully and proactively managing chronic pain and other health issues.
The therapeutic relationship can be a very important one and, like any other healthy relationship, it is based on mutual respect, trust and commitment. I approach our work together with a nonjudgmental stance. I will meet you wherever you are in your life's journey and honor your unique strengths. I support clients in creating their most fulfilling lives, in line with their values and goals. I incorporate mindfulness into a collaborative and client-centered process and employ an honest, direct communication style combined with warmth, compassion, and humor. I strive for a balance of embracing both change and acceptance.
I also work with clients on mindfully and proactively managing chronic pain and other health issues.
The therapeutic relationship can be a very important one and, like any other healthy relationship, it is based on mutual respect, trust and commitment. I approach our work together with a nonjudgmental stance. I will meet you wherever you are in your life's journey and honor your unique strengths. I support clients in creating their most fulfilling lives, in line with their values and goals. I incorporate mindfulness into a collaborative and client-centered process and employ an honest, direct communication style combined with warmth, compassion, and humor. I strive for a balance of embracing both change and acceptance.
(262) 214-3769 View (262) 214-3769
Photo of Derek Birkett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Derek Birkett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I’m a trauma-informed therapist with over five years of experience supporting children, teens, adults, and families navigating emotional distress, behavioral patterns, and addictive patterns. My integrative approach draws from CBT, DBT, attachment, and trauma-focused work, grounded in curiosity, compassion, and embodied awareness. I believe healing comes not just through insight, but through connection to one’s inner experience, wisdom of the body, and external environment. I help clients explore the felt sense of their emotions, reclaim lost or exiled parts of themselves, and cultivate deeper self-understanding and growth.
I’m a trauma-informed therapist with over five years of experience supporting children, teens, adults, and families navigating emotional distress, behavioral patterns, and addictive patterns. My integrative approach draws from CBT, DBT, attachment, and trauma-focused work, grounded in curiosity, compassion, and embodied awareness. I believe healing comes not just through insight, but through connection to one’s inner experience, wisdom of the body, and external environment. I help clients explore the felt sense of their emotions, reclaim lost or exiled parts of themselves, and cultivate deeper self-understanding and growth.
(608) 360-8280 View (608) 360-8280
Photo of Robin Block, MS, LPC
Robin Block
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53222
She brings “fresh eyes” to stories of pain told by people affected by life's challenges, mental health and substance abuse issues, and trauma.
Robin believes people are hurting, are worthy of respect, and are doing their best to navigate life. She offers individual and group sessions which use an “all hands on deck” approach and focus on mindfulness, positive regard for self and others, value identification, boundary setting, honesty in recovery, and community building.
She brings “fresh eyes” to stories of pain told by people affected by life's challenges, mental health and substance abuse issues, and trauma.
Robin believes people are hurting, are worthy of respect, and are doing their best to navigate life. She offers individual and group sessions which use an “all hands on deck” approach and focus on mindfulness, positive regard for self and others, value identification, boundary setting, honesty in recovery, and community building.
(414) 404-3970 View (414) 404-3970
Photo of Darcy Mason, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CH, RMT, RScP
Darcy Mason
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CH, RMT, RScP
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is person-centered, collaborative, and honest. I believe in creating a space where we can explore what’s truly helpful for you—blending evidence-based techniques with intuitive, holistic practices to meet your unique needs and goals. With a background in EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, meditation, and as a Reiki Master-Teacher, I offer a wide range of perspectives and tools to support your healing. My diverse background and a wide range of therapeutic skills allow me to meet you where you are, and support you in managing your mental health while working towards your goals in a way that is authentic and collaborative.
My approach is person-centered, collaborative, and honest. I believe in creating a space where we can explore what’s truly helpful for you—blending evidence-based techniques with intuitive, holistic practices to meet your unique needs and goals. With a background in EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, meditation, and as a Reiki Master-Teacher, I offer a wide range of perspectives and tools to support your healing. My diverse background and a wide range of therapeutic skills allow me to meet you where you are, and support you in managing your mental health while working towards your goals in a way that is authentic and collaborative.
(262) 205-2367 View (262) 205-2367
Photo of Andrew Royal, Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MS, LPC
Andrew Royal
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MS, LPC
3 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
My clients tend to be intelligent and insightful individuals who come to work with me because they suffer from despair and disorder. They have tried to resolve their troubles and cope with their uneasiness for a long time--often partly successfully, and against strong odds--but they have reached a point where they want extra support and insight in order to finally transform their suffering into meaningfulness and growth. With consistency, dedication, patience and focus, I help my clients achieve deep and lasting emotional transformation.
My clients tend to be intelligent and insightful individuals who come to work with me because they suffer from despair and disorder. They have tried to resolve their troubles and cope with their uneasiness for a long time--often partly successfully, and against strong odds--but they have reached a point where they want extra support and insight in order to finally transform their suffering into meaningfulness and growth. With consistency, dedication, patience and focus, I help my clients achieve deep and lasting emotional transformation.
(262) 533-0018 View (262) 533-0018
Photo of Susan Nolte, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Susan Nolte
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Whether you are having frequent conflicts with your partner, struggling with parenthood, grieving a loss, trying to establish healthy boundaries with family and friends, or working to understand yourself better — having someone to help support you through that process with empathy, insight, and guidance can be life changing. I have a masters in therapy, am married and a mother of four, and worked in a day treatment clinic doing individual, family, and group therapy so I have seen a lot. You are not alone and together we can process your situation, gain insight, and create meaningful change to help you move forward on a better path.
Whether you are having frequent conflicts with your partner, struggling with parenthood, grieving a loss, trying to establish healthy boundaries with family and friends, or working to understand yourself better — having someone to help support you through that process with empathy, insight, and guidance can be life changing. I have a masters in therapy, am married and a mother of four, and worked in a day treatment clinic doing individual, family, and group therapy so I have seen a lot. You are not alone and together we can process your situation, gain insight, and create meaningful change to help you move forward on a better path.
(414) 310-7897 View (414) 310-7897
Photo of Dr. Matthew Reiland, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Matthew Reiland
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have extensive experience helping individuals with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, PTSD, and life transitions.
My training includes an APA-accredited internship at the New Mexico VA and University of New Mexico Hospital where I received specialized training in trauma focused treatments and chronic pain. Through a yearlong fellowship at the Medical College of Wisconsin I gained further experience working with individuals facing ongoing health challenges.
I have extensive experience helping individuals with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, PTSD, and life transitions.
My training includes an APA-accredited internship at the New Mexico VA and University of New Mexico Hospital where I received specialized training in trauma focused treatments and chronic pain. Through a yearlong fellowship at the Medical College of Wisconsin I gained further experience working with individuals facing ongoing health challenges.
(414) 877-8724 View (414) 877-8724
Photo of Katie Chin, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Katie Chin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Online Only
I take a client-centered approach, applying practical strategies for anxiety, depression, ADHD, social skills, relational stress, chronic pain, and behavioral goals.
Welcome to Bayside Counseling! I'm Katie Chin, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 17 years experience serving the Greater Milwaukee area. I've worked across behavioral health levels—including inpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient programs—gaining a comprehensive view of client challenges. A Wisconsin native, I earned my BA in Psychology and Criminology from Marquette University (2005) and MA in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (2009). Between degrees, I worked as a Montessori assistant teacher, fueling my passion for child development and family support.
I take a client-centered approach, applying practical strategies for anxiety, depression, ADHD, social skills, relational stress, chronic pain, and behavioral goals.
Welcome to Bayside Counseling! I'm Katie Chin, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 17 years experience serving the Greater Milwaukee area. I've worked across behavioral health levels—including inpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient programs—gaining a comprehensive view of client challenges. A Wisconsin native, I earned my BA in Psychology and Criminology from Marquette University (2005) and MA in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (2009). Between degrees, I worked as a Montessori assistant teacher, fueling my passion for child development and family support.
(414) 667-5197 View (414) 667-5197
Photo of Gretchen Mead, LCSW, CYT
Gretchen Mead
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53211
I'd like to support you on your journey while you grow resilient from past pain, learn from relationship mistakes, ease yourself through stressful times, and carry the weight of the world when you must, all while moving through the discomfort toward a happier, healthier, and more robust version of your best self.
Currently accepting clients for psychotherapy, especially those interested in considering the power healing of ketamine and/or psychedelics. I would like the opportunity support you in reaching your fullest potential. By helping you reduce your symptoms of sadness, anxiety, anger, lethargy, and trauma, then replacing those symptoms with a life filled with health, wellness, joy, love, creativity, relationships and passion. As a uniquely trained ecotherapist, psychedelic integration specialist and yoga teacher, I bring a holistic perspective to mental health.
I'd like to support you on your journey while you grow resilient from past pain, learn from relationship mistakes, ease yourself through stressful times, and carry the weight of the world when you must, all while moving through the discomfort toward a happier, healthier, and more robust version of your best self.
Currently accepting clients for psychotherapy, especially those interested in considering the power healing of ketamine and/or psychedelics. I would like the opportunity support you in reaching your fullest potential. By helping you reduce your symptoms of sadness, anxiety, anger, lethargy, and trauma, then replacing those symptoms with a life filled with health, wellness, joy, love, creativity, relationships and passion. As a uniquely trained ecotherapist, psychedelic integration specialist and yoga teacher, I bring a holistic perspective to mental health.
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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.