Millions of individuals across the lifespan have chronic pain and illness. Chronic pain and illness are often disabling, and support needs vary. Here at Heights Family Counseling, we understand the complexities of this experience and are committed to providing personalized care for you.
Image of therapy session at Heights Family counseling in Houston and San Antonio, TX
The Impact of Chronic Pain and Illness
The impact of chronic pain and illness is multi-dimensional. Individuals with chronic pain and illness often experience symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and decreased immunity, which significantly reduce their quality of life. Additionally, for many, these symptoms bring up feelings of grief for past abilities and identities.
Chronic pain and illness can also be psychologically distressing. Anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts are common. It can be difficult to navigate these mental health concerns without support. Counseling can help you develop relevant skills and resources.
Moreover, chronic pain and illness impact relationships. Hidden disabilities are often invalidated and misunderstood. Many individuals with chronic pain and illness report negative interactions with friends, family, and healthcare providers. This can be isolating and exhausting. Sometimes, you just do not have the spoons.
From a broader perspective, it is important to acknowledge that individuals with chronic pain and illness experience ableism and other forms of oppression, such as sexism, racism, homophobia, and transphobia. Our counselors understand this and the need for disability justice.
Our Approaches to Counseling for Chronic Pain and Illness
At Heights Family Counseling, our motto is “human first.” This means we are, first and foremost, client-centered. We hold space for you as you are, providing the support and validation you may not experience elsewhere. Additionally, counseling for chronic pain and illness may focus on the following areas:
Sharing your experience of chronic pain and illness
Learning strategies to reduce or respond to symptoms
Shifting your relationship with your symptoms
Processing grief and trauma associated with chronic pain and illness
Constructing a positive self-image that includes your chronic pain and illness
Developing skills and resources to manage psychological distress
Processing negative social interactions
Navigating relationships with friends, family, and healthcare providers
Setting boundaries
Practicing self-advocacy
Becoming empowered to utilize resources and accommodations for chronic pain and illness
Addressing experiences of ableism and other forms of oppression
And more
Our counselors utilize a variety of approaches to meet your needs. These may include but are not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), somatic therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, relational-cultural therapy (RCT), feminist therapy, and more.
Our approaches to counseling for chronic pain and illness are always trauma-informed, social justice-oriented, intersectional, and holistic.
Counseling for Chronic Pain and Illness
Counseling for chronic pain and illness can help. We have several counselors that focus on serving clients from these communities. Some also experience chronic pain and illness themselves.
HOW LONG DOES COUNSELING FOR CHRONIC PAIN AND ILLNESS TAKE?
At Heights Family Counseling, there is no cookie-cutter approach to counseling for chronic pain and illness. Our approaches are specific to the background, needs, and strengths of each client. We collaborate with you to determine the appropriate frequency and duration of counseling services. This may mean you work with us for weeks, months, or years. Whenever you are ready to move forward without the support of counseling, we will celebrate with you!
HOW DO I KNOW THAT WHAT I SAY IN COUNSELING WILL REMAIN CONFIDENTIAL?
Our practice follows state and federal guidelines regarding the security and privacy of client data. This means that everything discussed in counseling will remain confidential. We will not share this information without your consent. Both our in-person and online services are HIPAA-compliant.
Begin Counseling for Chronic Pain and Illness in Houston or San Antonio
Image of Heights Family Counseling’s therapy room in Houston and San Antonio, TX.
If you need support navigating chronic pain and illness, we are here to help. To begin counseling or find out more, follow these steps:
Contact our counseling practice to schedule your free consultation.
Meet with a counselor who specializes in chronic pain and illness.
Begin counseling and improve your quality of life.
