Mind Over Migraines: Therapist Olga Bloch on Conquering Chronic Pain

Imagine feeling helpless, stressed and miserable with no relief in sight. Chronic pain takes a physical, mental and emotional toll on those who suffer from it. NBC Washington shares the story of one Virginia woman’s journey to relief with the help of Rockville, MD therapist Olga Bloch, LCMFT.

Sonia Lampkin, 28, spent two years suffering from excruciating chronic migraines that left her feeling hopeless. Bloch helped her look at her chronic pain differently. Therapy won’t necessarily cure migraines, but it helps patients identify and avoid patterns and triggers that often precede the painful headaches. Bloch suggests breathing, visualizing calming scenarios and smelling tranquil scents are effective coping mechanisms.

Since Lampkin started therapy, she’s been able to control the pain and frequency of her migraines and only experiences the headaches every few weeks. “The therapy specifically has been one of the largest aspects that has helped me because it’s really changed my perspective on almost everything.”

Fortunately the same therapy strategy Bloch used with Lampkin chronic migraines can help relieve other kinds of chronic pain.