Chronic Pain or Illness
Psychologist, Licensed Clinical Psychologist
As a licensed clinical psychologist for 20+ years, I understand that the relationship and "fit" between client and therapist is paramount. I work hard to establish and maintain a relationship based on mutual trust and honesty. We can work together to help you feel less stuck, and more in control.
32 Years Experience
Online in Linglestown, Pennsylvania
Chronic Pain or Illness
Psychologist, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist
Typically, Chronic Pain Syndrome patients come to see a psychologist after being seen by a number of other health professionals to no avail, including internal medicine physicians, orthopedists, surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, physical therapists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, emergency room doctors (for late-night injections of powerful pain killing drugs) and others. Typically, a Chronic Pain evaluation consists of several approaches to discovering which factors play the largest role in maintaining the pain. We ask patients to keep a Pain Diary for a week or two, which helps us pinpoint which activities or emotional states are related to an increase in pain level. This also helps us observe how they are actually taking their medications. We may also perform psychological testing to determine any underlying causes of depression or anxiety which should be treated in addition to the Chronic Pain and which could be helping to maintain it. At least one Family Session is held to explore whether there have been unconscious payoffs within the family for being in pain.
34 Years Experience
Online in Linglestown, Pennsylvania
Chronic Pain or Illness
Counselor/Therapist, Ed.D., M.A., BCBA-D, CAC, BC-TMH, CCTP, THP, Practitioner/ Specialist.
From the time I was a small child, I was no stranger to being around people living in chronic pain and illness. I became very accustomed to caring for and assisting others experiencing physical pain. My maternal grandmother was diagnosed with cancer just before I was born. I went on to work in health care settings, including nursing and rehabilitative homes and centers, and continued to provide services to an aging population. I also have personal experience caring for a deceased spouse who suffered with cancer. This personal experience was far more educational than any advanced degree or training program with which I participated, in terms of understanding so many important factors involved in the treatment and care of those living with chronic pain or illness, as well as their families. Since that time (2008), I have worked with a number of clients individually, and their families, diagnosed with cancer and other terminal illnesses. Coupled with my early-on personal and professional learning experiences, this is a specialty area of mine that comes very naturally. Psychological pain and "disease" is also an area for which I am no stranger, in terms of experiencing the effects of secondary traumatization (vicarious traumatization). Often times those individuals who are not receiving the help and support they need may pass these conditions onto others, just like with physical communicable "dis-eases", causing others to experience these "states". It is so important that those surrounding these individuals are also provided the help, care, and support that is needed so it is not displaced onto others, who may fall victim to their outbursts or difficulties.
21 Years Experience
Online in Linglestown, Pennsylvania