Our approach is dedicated to the assessment and treatment of headache, migraine, and head/facial pain. The clinic accepts referrals from all sources, including neurologists and self-referrals.

The Doleys Clinic team is fully aware of how devastating uncontrolled head pain can be.  Our goal is to provide thorough evaluation of the problem combined with comprehensive treatment and long-term management when appropriate.

Our primary approach is non-pharmacological (non-medicine) in nature, emphasizing safe and effective complements or alternatives to medicine.  The outcome of this program depends largely on the patient's active cooperation and participation in treatment.

The Doleys Clinic
A Comprehensive Pain Management Clinic in Birmingham, Alabama
Headache Program
Evaluation and Treatment Planning
The team evaluation consists of a medical record review and thorough history.  New patients should plan to spend 1-2 hours at the clinic to complete initial paperwork, questionnaires, and an interview with the program director.  The evaluation can be greatly facilitated by the patient providing, in advance of their appointment, records of previous consultations and diagnostic work-ups (e.g., lab findings, x-rays, CT scans, MRI files).

The data are integrated by the team, resulting in a non-drug treatment plan.  Communication with the patient's referring physician will be maintained so that there is continuity of care.  If there is no current treating physician, medical management or consultation is available through our clinic. 
  • Biofeedback measures and records internal processes occurring in the body.  You will learn to “read” these signals about breathing, muscle tension, and blood flow and develop a growing awareness of your level of psychological arousal. 
  • Biofeedback sessions go hand-in-hand with relaxation training.  Over a period of relaxation sessions, you will learn several strategies for reducing stress and generating the “relaxation response.” 
  • You will be provided with a CD of relaxation exercises and guidelines for ongoing daily practice.  Research has shown that patients trained in biofeedback and relaxation who continue their practice report reduced frequency, severity, and duration of headaches, as well as decreased medication use. 
  • We are fortunate to have the only certified biofeedback therapist in the state of Alabama as part of our team.  
Biofeedback and Relaxation Therapy
Lynn Marino, RN
Biofeedback Therapist
Individual Stress Management Education and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
  • The goal of these sessions with the psychologist is to improve your quality of life by increasing understanding and control over the headaches.  You will learn to become aware of your own headache triggers and the importance of maintaining a headache diary.  In addition, you will learn to understand the role of diet, exercise, stress reduction, and stable sleep patterns to control headache. 
  • Dr. Cianfrini uses cognitive-behavioral treatment approaches and specializes in stress and pain management training, as well as treatment of depression and anxiety.
Leanne Cianfrini, PhD
Pain Psychologist
Headache Program Director
Other Therapies
  • Neuromuscular Therapy
  • Massage
  • Cervical Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
  • TENS
  • Referrals for Botox, Occipital Nerve Blocks or Stimulators