You have more control over your pain than you may believe.  The mind and the body exist as one connected system. At Suite 14 we work from the perspective that most chronic conditions are constructed both physically and psychologically. 

TMS (tension myoneural syndrome) is a term and diagnosis for chronic musculoskeletal pain first identified by Dr. John Sarno. The condition is caused by the brain’s response to strong emotions and trauma that remain unconscious. As the field of mindbody medicine and treatment has evolved other mindbody disorders have been found to result from the same process.  In line with the community of survivors, sufferers and practitioners, we use the TMS distinction as a descriptive term to include all of these disorders.

The process resulting in mindbody disorders begins when distressing unconscious emotions set the stage for physical symptoms. The nervous system “fires off” physical sensations and experiences when triggered by a need to protect the system from the “threat” of overwhelming feelings. If the underlying psychology goes unexplored or unacknowledged, physical symptoms tend to remain or heighten over time. Purely physical treatments, such as drugs or surgery, may offer temporary relief or comfort, but do not resolve the condition. The result is often continued pain and a new or compounded mindbody disorder. 

At Suite 14, we treat TMS and other chronic mindbody conditions using a model pioneered by Dr. Sarno. All of our clinicians have been trained to develop individualized treatment plans to explore the cause of a client’s symptoms and provide them with tools for relief. We believe that psychotherapists, trained to approach the needs of every individual holistically, are perfectly positioned to treat chronic mindbody conditions successfully. 

Once a client understands that their pain is psychological in origin, acknowledges repressed feelings and works towards acceptance, their symptoms will improve or completely resolve. This process is unique for each client, therefore, we are dedicated to developing treatment protocols that address the needs of a diverse population of people. We prioritize employing and training clinicians with different perspectives, skills, theoretical orientations, and identities to broaden our reach. We hope to continue to increase the treatment numbers of clients suffering from mindbody conditions.

 The work of healing chronic conditions has positive benefits across all aspects of a client’s life including relationships, career fulfillment, and healthier choices that prioritize the client’s needs. Beyond the relief of physical symptoms post-treatment, clients enjoy an enhanced quality of life overall. Awareness of their unique emotions, ideas, and expectations about pain forms the therapeutic foundation for healing.