mental or physical, not as a hindrance, but as unique attributes that can be seen as powerful assets if given the right opportunities
Therapy for Disabilities and Chronic Pain
For those who experience chronic pain and illness, it is often clear that the world is not set up for, or designed to accommodate, folks with chronic conditions and disabilities. I have worked with clients with chronic illness and pain individually for a number of years. I have seen firsthand the incredible resilience of this population, while also witnessing the isolation, challenges, and even hopelessness of their lives. There are many ways to find satisfaction, meaning, and hope for everyone, in spite of, and perhaps because of these challenges. We can work together to manage many of these challenges including ableism, accommodations, chronic pain, and illness.
I value developing strong relationships and connections with clients who require a safe place to explore a variety of goals and ways to manage and overcome often painful challenges. I have a good deal of personal experience with the challenges that come with chronic pain and illness. My clients and I have seen excellent results in treating chronic pain and illness using a variety of therapeutic practices, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I believe that pain is inevitable, yet suffering doesn’t have to be. See my upcoming group.
What is ACT?
ACT, or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, is an empirically-based psychological practice that uses acceptance and mindfulness strategies along with commitment and behavior-change strategies to increase psychological flexibility. It is particularly well-suited for working with chronic pain, as it aims to help you move forward through difficult emotions so you can put your energy into healing.