Chronic Pain Therapists in Oregon

Photo of Valerie Brodbeck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Valerie Brodbeck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , CADC 1
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I am a somatic-based therapist specializing in trauma, attachment, and chronic illness/pain. Have you tried traditional talk therapy before without much success? Do you feel like you have shared your story over and over but nothing really changes? By addressing all aspects of your experience (mind and body) you can have access to a wider array of resources, insight, and opportunities for change.
Welcome! I am a somatic-based therapist specializing in trauma, attachment, and chronic illness/pain. Have you tried traditional talk therapy before without much success? Do you feel like you have shared your story over and over but nothing really changes? By addressing all aspects of your experience (mind and body) you can have access to a wider array of resources, insight, and opportunities for change.
(458) 243-4803 View (458) 243-4803
Photo of Mattie Day, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Mattie Day
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Redmond, OR 97756
If you are looking for a therapist, it is likely you are ready to experience some change in your life. I provide trauma-focused psychotherapy which can guide you into both transformation and healing. You may be suffering with symptoms of depression, trauma, chronic pain, and anxieties. When you reach out for help, feeling better is an inevitable outcome. Often, when you begin to more mindfully experience your inner world, you may feel more emotional intensity before you feel better. My therapy approach is holistic in the sense that I acknowledge and work with the body, mind, emotions and spirit.
If you are looking for a therapist, it is likely you are ready to experience some change in your life. I provide trauma-focused psychotherapy which can guide you into both transformation and healing. You may be suffering with symptoms of depression, trauma, chronic pain, and anxieties. When you reach out for help, feeling better is an inevitable outcome. Often, when you begin to more mindfully experience your inner world, you may feel more emotional intensity before you feel better. My therapy approach is holistic in the sense that I acknowledge and work with the body, mind, emotions and spirit.
(971) 340-2661 View (971) 340-2661
Photo of Adele Moore :: Center Horizon Holistic Health Coaching in Oregon
Adele Moore :: Center Horizon Holistic Health Coaching
MS, BSN, RN, NC-BC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97302
Health is about more than the absence of illness and "the picture of health" is different for every person. My philosophy is that each individual has strengths and values that can be built upon to improve quality of life no matter what your health challenges are. I specialize in helping people find their strengths and then, we work together to create a wellness plan that is realistic and achievable. Together, we can build one for you beginning wherever you are today and moving forward.
Health is about more than the absence of illness and "the picture of health" is different for every person. My philosophy is that each individual has strengths and values that can be built upon to improve quality of life no matter what your health challenges are. I specialize in helping people find their strengths and then, we work together to create a wellness plan that is realistic and achievable. Together, we can build one for you beginning wherever you are today and moving forward.
(503) 877-2085 View (503) 877-2085
Photo of Lily Armstrong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Lily Armstrong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Gresham, OR 97030
I focus on the somatic experience, mindfulness practices, persistent pain, anxiety, depression, insomnia issues, and transformative healing.
I am passionate about helping people change by finding deeper joy in their lives. If you seek healing, growth, a process through conflict or shifting painful patterns, if you desire to pursue wellness, spiritual connection and mind body integration, if you are curious about recovery work, creating beauty, the Enneagram, an INFP, or unique in more than one way, then I look forward to hearing from you. You want support from a therapist that’s creative in their process and flexible in approach, committed to helping develop the skills to cultivate love, purpose and deep joy in life.
I focus on the somatic experience, mindfulness practices, persistent pain, anxiety, depression, insomnia issues, and transformative healing.
I am passionate about helping people change by finding deeper joy in their lives. If you seek healing, growth, a process through conflict or shifting painful patterns, if you desire to pursue wellness, spiritual connection and mind body integration, if you are curious about recovery work, creating beauty, the Enneagram, an INFP, or unique in more than one way, then I look forward to hearing from you. You want support from a therapist that’s creative in their process and flexible in approach, committed to helping develop the skills to cultivate love, purpose and deep joy in life.
(503) 447-8203 View (503) 447-8203
Photo of Olivia Rogers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Olivia Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97402  (Online Only)
My areas of focus are helping people experiencing chronic pain, identity exploration, support during transitions and times of stress, anxiety relief, support with navigating the complexities of relationships, and trauma recovery.
I use a client centered approach, which means you will be in the driver's seat regarding the areas of your life that you want to discuss, and I will be your co-pilot, helping to navigate the terrain and offering you tools and wisdom along the way. My counseling approach is collaborative, genuine, and relational. I approach counseling with an unconditional positive regard for my clients. My clients would describe my style as down to earth and relatable. I strive to create an atmosphere that is safe and free of judgement so that you feel comfortable discussing difficult topics.
My areas of focus are helping people experiencing chronic pain, identity exploration, support during transitions and times of stress, anxiety relief, support with navigating the complexities of relationships, and trauma recovery.
I use a client centered approach, which means you will be in the driver's seat regarding the areas of your life that you want to discuss, and I will be your co-pilot, helping to navigate the terrain and offering you tools and wisdom along the way. My counseling approach is collaborative, genuine, and relational. I approach counseling with an unconditional positive regard for my clients. My clients would describe my style as down to earth and relatable. I strive to create an atmosphere that is safe and free of judgement so that you feel comfortable discussing difficult topics.
(541) 515-6942 View (541) 515-6942
Photo of Alicia Ankenman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Alicia Ankenman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97703
I work with individuals suffering from trauma, chronic pain, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and various life transitions. I utilize Mindfulness-based and Somatic approaches to help clients cultivate mind-body awareness and create emotional well-being. Somatic Experiencing is one of the approaches that is very effective in helping people overcome the effects of accumulated, chronic stress. It integrates neuroscience, attachment theory and mindfulness to help you restore a sense of balance to your emotional, intellectual, physical, and spiritual life.
I work with individuals suffering from trauma, chronic pain, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and various life transitions. I utilize Mindfulness-based and Somatic approaches to help clients cultivate mind-body awareness and create emotional well-being. Somatic Experiencing is one of the approaches that is very effective in helping people overcome the effects of accumulated, chronic stress. It integrates neuroscience, attachment theory and mindfulness to help you restore a sense of balance to your emotional, intellectual, physical, and spiritual life.
(503) 451-6346 View (503) 451-6346
Photo of Bob Ross, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Bob Ross, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
Are you struggling with painful emotions, troubling thoughts, unwanted behaviors, relationship difficulties, or disabling physical conditions like chronic pain? Therapy can help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified-Clinical Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Social Worker, with decades of counseling experience. I offer individual and group therapy, psycho-education and consulting for adults experiencing mental health, substance abuse, or chronic health difficulties. I collaborate with you, building on your strengths, to help you explore new insights, skills and solutions. My approach is holistic, compassionate, non-judgmental, and integrative. I would be honored to join your healing journey.
Are you struggling with painful emotions, troubling thoughts, unwanted behaviors, relationship difficulties, or disabling physical conditions like chronic pain? Therapy can help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified-Clinical Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Social Worker, with decades of counseling experience. I offer individual and group therapy, psycho-education and consulting for adults experiencing mental health, substance abuse, or chronic health difficulties. I collaborate with you, building on your strengths, to help you explore new insights, skills and solutions. My approach is holistic, compassionate, non-judgmental, and integrative. I would be honored to join your healing journey.
(971) 983-8080 View (971) 983-8080
Photo of Michele Freeman Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Michele Freeman Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor & specialize in Chronic Pain and Chronic Degenerative Illness. I am a National Certified Counselor, Certified Integrative Mental Health Practitioner, and have a Certificate of Addiction Medicine from OHSU. Continuing education I am currently working on through OHSU and UNM School of Medicine are Integrative Behavioral Health for Pediatric Populations, Resiliency for First Responders, Adverse Childhood Experiences, and Climate Change and Health which includes Mental Health. And last, I am on the metric advisory committee for Advancing Integrated Care through the Oregon Health Council.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor & specialize in Chronic Pain and Chronic Degenerative Illness. I am a National Certified Counselor, Certified Integrative Mental Health Practitioner, and have a Certificate of Addiction Medicine from OHSU. Continuing education I am currently working on through OHSU and UNM School of Medicine are Integrative Behavioral Health for Pediatric Populations, Resiliency for First Responders, Adverse Childhood Experiences, and Climate Change and Health which includes Mental Health. And last, I am on the metric advisory committee for Advancing Integrated Care through the Oregon Health Council.
(541) 638-0225 View (541) 638-0225
Photo of Eden Baron-Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oregon
Eden Baron-Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
You came here because you have a desire to deepen your relationship with yourself and others, you feel stuck in patterns you hope to change, are processing trauma, or are looking to reclaim lost parts of yourself. You have come to the right place. Working with adults with childhood trauma/complex trauma, couples/relational systems, chronic pain/illness, and queer/trans/non-binary individuals and relationships, I create spaces for care and collaboration. I hope to assist you in building a bridge to yourself that unlocks your inner wisdom and weaves together the vast embroidery of stories, sensations, and emotions in your life.
You came here because you have a desire to deepen your relationship with yourself and others, you feel stuck in patterns you hope to change, are processing trauma, or are looking to reclaim lost parts of yourself. You have come to the right place. Working with adults with childhood trauma/complex trauma, couples/relational systems, chronic pain/illness, and queer/trans/non-binary individuals and relationships, I create spaces for care and collaboration. I hope to assist you in building a bridge to yourself that unlocks your inner wisdom and weaves together the vast embroidery of stories, sensations, and emotions in your life.
(971) 365-4866 View (971) 365-4866
Photo of Scott DeLaus Kobold, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oregon
Scott DeLaus Kobold
Pre-Licensed Professional, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
I specialize in helping clients from any background challenged with anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic physical pain.
Taking New Clients! For far too long I worked in a field that gave me little to no gratification. Serendipitously, over the years I spent much of my free time volunteering for numerous causes and discovered that helping others in truly meaningful ways is the work that warms my soul. That is why I am here today offering my expertise to you. Operating from a place of compassion, my role is to gain a thorough understanding of your unique experience and how it's impacted you. I seek to identify ways I can help you alleviate harmful thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, become a happier person, and lead the life you envision.
I specialize in helping clients from any background challenged with anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic physical pain.
Taking New Clients! For far too long I worked in a field that gave me little to no gratification. Serendipitously, over the years I spent much of my free time volunteering for numerous causes and discovered that helping others in truly meaningful ways is the work that warms my soul. That is why I am here today offering my expertise to you. Operating from a place of compassion, my role is to gain a thorough understanding of your unique experience and how it's impacted you. I seek to identify ways I can help you alleviate harmful thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, become a happier person, and lead the life you envision.
(503) 563-8818 View (503) 563-8818
Wise Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97405
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (MA) using an empathetic, client-centered, strength-based orientation to help clients overcome difficulties they face in their lives and relationships. I have been in practice since 2008, working with all ages, focusing on Anxiety, ADHD, Pain Management, and healing from Traumatic Brain Injuries. I am also a certified Neurofeedback (LENS) practitioner (see Ochslabs.com) with extensive training and experience using Neurofeedback training to successfully treat many different issues: ADHD, PTSD, other Anxiety disorders, and supporting the brain in re-wiring and re-regulating- getting a tune-up.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (MA) using an empathetic, client-centered, strength-based orientation to help clients overcome difficulties they face in their lives and relationships. I have been in practice since 2008, working with all ages, focusing on Anxiety, ADHD, Pain Management, and healing from Traumatic Brain Injuries. I am also a certified Neurofeedback (LENS) practitioner (see Ochslabs.com) with extensive training and experience using Neurofeedback training to successfully treat many different issues: ADHD, PTSD, other Anxiety disorders, and supporting the brain in re-wiring and re-regulating- getting a tune-up.
(541) 214-2946 View (541) 214-2946
Photo of Angee Gilchrist-Stewart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Angee Gilchrist-Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005  (Online Only)
Other specialized interests: phobia, stress, sports and test performance, body dysmorphia, panic, complex trauma, PTSD, grief, pain disorders, OCD, Health At Every Size, creative blocks, psychogenic non-epileptic seizures.
Each of us is unique and has encountered challenges that shape who we are. What I offer is a safe, confidential space to navigate your concerns with a down-to-earth, open-minded, and objective, highly trained professional. Sometimes, we need someone to talk to and hold space for us. Sometimes we need someone who will challenge our perspective to help shift the way we have been looking at a problem. Sometimes we need someone to come down into the rabbit hole with us and help us find our way out. Let's find meaningful, intentional ways for you to engage with and live your life fully.
Other specialized interests: phobia, stress, sports and test performance, body dysmorphia, panic, complex trauma, PTSD, grief, pain disorders, OCD, Health At Every Size, creative blocks, psychogenic non-epileptic seizures.
Each of us is unique and has encountered challenges that shape who we are. What I offer is a safe, confidential space to navigate your concerns with a down-to-earth, open-minded, and objective, highly trained professional. Sometimes, we need someone to talk to and hold space for us. Sometimes we need someone who will challenge our perspective to help shift the way we have been looking at a problem. Sometimes we need someone to come down into the rabbit hole with us and help us find our way out. Let's find meaningful, intentional ways for you to engage with and live your life fully.
(971) 203-7878 View (971) 203-7878
Photo of Stephen Boyd, Psychologist in Oregon
Stephen Boyd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (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.
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Photo of Rose Walker, LPC Intern in Oregon
Rose Walker
LPC Intern, PCA
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older, who are experiencing trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain and chronic illness.
My goal as a counselor is to assist you in your journey of living a more authentic and fulfilling life. I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older. My approach to counseling is person-centered, providing a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering space for you to explore the challenges and patterns preventing you from achieving your goals and to discover your unique path for spiritual, emotional, social, and mental wellness. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques, depending upon each individual’s needs, informed by CBT, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally-Focused Individual Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older, who are experiencing trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain and chronic illness.
My goal as a counselor is to assist you in your journey of living a more authentic and fulfilling life. I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older. My approach to counseling is person-centered, providing a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering space for you to explore the challenges and patterns preventing you from achieving your goals and to discover your unique path for spiritual, emotional, social, and mental wellness. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques, depending upon each individual’s needs, informed by CBT, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally-Focused Individual Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
(503) 855-6949 View (503) 855-6949
Photo of Daniel G. Lyman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Daniel G. Lyman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Daniel G Lyman, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist and mental health coach specializing in anxiety, depression, chronic pain, sex & sexuality, and LGBTQ related issues. Daniel is the Executive Director of the Mind Body Therapy Center, headquartered in Portland, OR, but offering therapy and coaching world wide. With thousands of hours experience, Daniel's training and experience can help you reach your goals, including reducing anxiety, overcoming depression, eliminating chronic pain, and much more. He has led workshops and trainings in local colleges as well as guest lectured at the USC Graduate School of Social Work.
Daniel G Lyman, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist and mental health coach specializing in anxiety, depression, chronic pain, sex & sexuality, and LGBTQ related issues. Daniel is the Executive Director of the Mind Body Therapy Center, headquartered in Portland, OR, but offering therapy and coaching world wide. With thousands of hours experience, Daniel's training and experience can help you reach your goals, including reducing anxiety, overcoming depression, eliminating chronic pain, and much more. He has led workshops and trainings in local colleges as well as guest lectured at the USC Graduate School of Social Work.
(503) 300-2982 View (503) 300-2982
Photo of The Trauma Academy Northwest LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
The Trauma Academy Northwest LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
Trauma is a highly complex and personal experience. Everyone's experience and definition of trauma is different. Among both professionals and clients, it is often incredibly misunderstood. It affects us across physical, social, emotional, and spiritual bounds. It compromises our ability to process sensory input and renders us incapable of communicating at times. Traumatic experiences can make us feel "small" and incompetent, incapable of managing basic tasks at times, or we may even develop intermittent or chronic pain.
Trauma is a highly complex and personal experience. Everyone's experience and definition of trauma is different. Among both professionals and clients, it is often incredibly misunderstood. It affects us across physical, social, emotional, and spiritual bounds. It compromises our ability to process sensory input and renders us incapable of communicating at times. Traumatic experiences can make us feel "small" and incompetent, incapable of managing basic tasks at times, or we may even develop intermittent or chronic pain.
(971) 340-4114 View (971) 340-4114
Photo of Dr. Peter H. Addy, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Oregon
Dr. Peter H. Addy
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
I specialize in guiding psychedelic-curious individuals with chronic health issues to prepare with confidence and courage. My ideal client is someone who has been struggling with chronic health issues, like fibromyalgia, and is looking for a transformative experience to help them heal. They may feel overwhelmed by information about psychedelics and are unsure about the process, or may have lost hope after failed treatments.
I specialize in guiding psychedelic-curious individuals with chronic health issues to prepare with confidence and courage. My ideal client is someone who has been struggling with chronic health issues, like fibromyalgia, and is looking for a transformative experience to help them heal. They may feel overwhelmed by information about psychedelics and are unsure about the process, or may have lost hope after failed treatments.
(503) 773-6573 View (503) 773-6573
Photo of Paul Guinther, Psychologist in Oregon
Paul Guinther
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
As a licensed psychologist I am able to help people who are struggling with a variety of health concerns, including chronic pain, trauma/PTSD, persistent complex bereavement (impairing grief lasting more than one year), anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship issues.
Your pain is a key that can unlock the door to a better life. As a psychologist, I work to help you turn that key- to help open yourself to the compassion, enjoyment, and fulfillment that are waiting for you. I can help you through life's problems using evidence based therapy, meaning we will practice techniques that science has shown work when people commit to the process. I use a form of cognitive behavioral therapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which has been shown by research to be effective not only in reducing suffering but also in increasing life satisfaction.
As a licensed psychologist I am able to help people who are struggling with a variety of health concerns, including chronic pain, trauma/PTSD, persistent complex bereavement (impairing grief lasting more than one year), anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship issues.
Your pain is a key that can unlock the door to a better life. As a psychologist, I work to help you turn that key- to help open yourself to the compassion, enjoyment, and fulfillment that are waiting for you. I can help you through life's problems using evidence based therapy, meaning we will practice techniques that science has shown work when people commit to the process. I use a form of cognitive behavioral therapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which has been shown by research to be effective not only in reducing suffering but also in increasing life satisfaction.
(971) 247-9984 View (971) 247-9984
Photo of Clark Miller Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Clark Miller Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manzanita, OR 97130
Areas of special expertise include treatment of substance use problems, chronic pain and behavioral/emotional approaches to physical health.
Your health deserves the highest quality care, and when we work together, you’ll get that - uncompromised integrity of personal, individualized therapy with the skills of a licensed, published substance use and behavioral health expert. I draw on direct practice experience in diverse settings with children, families and adults to offer individualized support for personal change. My work is grounded in understanding and commitment to therapies that work as established by research, not by tradition or business models - patient-centered therapy interactions that feel right: understanding, trustful, collaborative, and empowering.
Areas of special expertise include treatment of substance use problems, chronic pain and behavioral/emotional approaches to physical health.
Your health deserves the highest quality care, and when we work together, you’ll get that - uncompromised integrity of personal, individualized therapy with the skills of a licensed, published substance use and behavioral health expert. I draw on direct practice experience in diverse settings with children, families and adults to offer individualized support for personal change. My work is grounded in understanding and commitment to therapies that work as established by research, not by tradition or business models - patient-centered therapy interactions that feel right: understanding, trustful, collaborative, and empowering.
(503) 470-2471 View (503) 470-2471
Photo of Carol T Rivendell in Oregon
Carol T Rivendell
MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97404
During difficult times my office is a place of comfort, compassion, insight and help. You are not alone. Together we will unlock your ability to flourish. Are you trudging through life? Are your choices bringing you satisfaction? Do you suffer from chronic pain? Do you feel emotionally wounded, sad, lonely? Are you grieving? Don’t give up. It’s going to be Ok. You can have hope, know that you matter, learn how to lovingly connect with others and receive love in return.
During difficult times my office is a place of comfort, compassion, insight and help. You are not alone. Together we will unlock your ability to flourish. Are you trudging through life? Are your choices bringing you satisfaction? Do you suffer from chronic pain? Do you feel emotionally wounded, sad, lonely? Are you grieving? Don’t give up. It’s going to be Ok. You can have hope, know that you matter, learn how to lovingly connect with others and receive love in return.
(541) 999-6421 View (541) 999-6421
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.