Chronic Pain Psychiatrists in Miami, FL

Photo of Dr. Inemesit Udo, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Inemesit Udo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33157  (Online Only)
In addition, I continue my primary care role, addressing various urgent care needs, including cold, flu, UTI, acute pain, COVID-19 symptoms, and more.
If you often face significant emotional or psychological challenges, or have complex health conditions affecting your overall well-being and quality of life, you need a holistic approach that addresses both physical and mental health. Seek a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner, specializing as both a Family NP and a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner—someone who can seamlessly integrate medication with talk therapy to address both the physiological and emotional aspects of your health. With tailored treatment strategies that consider your individual needs and preferences, look no further.
In addition, I continue my primary care role, addressing various urgent care needs, including cold, flu, UTI, acute pain, COVID-19 symptoms, and more.
If you often face significant emotional or psychological challenges, or have complex health conditions affecting your overall well-being and quality of life, you need a holistic approach that addresses both physical and mental health. Seek a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner, specializing as both a Family NP and a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner—someone who can seamlessly integrate medication with talk therapy to address both the physiological and emotional aspects of your health. With tailored treatment strategies that consider your individual needs and preferences, look no further.
(321) 291-2719 View (321) 291-2719
Photo of Dr. Mona Toussaint-Andre, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Mona Toussaint-Andre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
From mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder to anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, chronic pain, and others.
Hello, I am Dr. Mona Toussaint-Andre, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping you achieve optimal mental well-being. I understand the challenges you may face when seeking mental health assistance due to societal stigmas. I am determined to work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan within a supportive environment. With my extensive experience in treating various mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, chronic pain, obesity, and ADHD, together we can work towards your healing. Let's take the first step towards your well-being together.
From mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder to anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, chronic pain, and others.
Hello, I am Dr. Mona Toussaint-Andre, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping you achieve optimal mental well-being. I understand the challenges you may face when seeking mental health assistance due to societal stigmas. I am determined to work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan within a supportive environment. With my extensive experience in treating various mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, chronic pain, obesity, and ADHD, together we can work towards your healing. Let's take the first step towards your well-being together.
(754) 254-2572 View (754) 254-2572
Photo of Noam Koenigsberg, MD, Psychiatrist
Noam Koenigsberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33131  (Online Only)
Awards and Publications: ASAM Essentials of Addiction Medicine Second Edition, Chapter 98 Comorbid Pain And Addiction.
I am a board certified psychiatrist. I have a telepsychiatric practice where I see clients all over Florida and New York state. I am licensed in both states. My concierge practice specializes in medication management to treat psychiatric issues including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and all other psychiatric needs of the patient. I approach each client in a nonjudgmental manner to help decrease and eliminate symptoms and achieve treatment goals. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual.
Awards and Publications: ASAM Essentials of Addiction Medicine Second Edition, Chapter 98 Comorbid Pain And Addiction.
I am a board certified psychiatrist. I have a telepsychiatric practice where I see clients all over Florida and New York state. I am licensed in both states. My concierge practice specializes in medication management to treat psychiatric issues including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and all other psychiatric needs of the patient. I approach each client in a nonjudgmental manner to help decrease and eliminate symptoms and achieve treatment goals. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual.
(305) 440-4768 View (305) 440-4768
Photo of Lisa B Marshall - Memorial Mental Health of South Florida, LLC, DMSc, Psychiatrist
Memorial Mental Health of South Florida, LLC
Psychiatrist, DMSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33169  (Online Only)
There are times you may not feel “ok.” That could mean emotionally, psychologically, or even socially. You may feel like you can handle the dips in your emotions and even believe you do not need help. But just like needing a doctor for persistent abdominal pain, or for a rash that won’t go away or to help with an unstable blood pressure, you may need someone with experience to assist and to help alleviate or resolve the issue. The brain needs assistance also, especially when we are feeling overwhelmed.
There are times you may not feel “ok.” That could mean emotionally, psychologically, or even socially. You may feel like you can handle the dips in your emotions and even believe you do not need help. But just like needing a doctor for persistent abdominal pain, or for a rash that won’t go away or to help with an unstable blood pressure, you may need someone with experience to assist and to help alleviate or resolve the issue. The brain needs assistance also, especially when we are feeling overwhelmed.
(954) 513-4065 View (954) 513-4065
Photo of Menekse Alpay, MD, Psychiatrist
Menekse Alpay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33101
Psychological pain and suffering may effect all aspects of our lives.
I work with individuals who have anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, relationship problems, trauma history, medical illness, neurological illness, and/or individuals who are helping family members with these problems. My experience over the last 25 years in psychiatry has shown that medications are helpful but do not take care of all problems in life. I offer combined psychiatric treatment. I received my psychiatric residency training from Georgetown University Hospital and fellowship in Psychosomatic Medicine from Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School.
Psychological pain and suffering may effect all aspects of our lives.
I work with individuals who have anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, relationship problems, trauma history, medical illness, neurological illness, and/or individuals who are helping family members with these problems. My experience over the last 25 years in psychiatry has shown that medications are helpful but do not take care of all problems in life. I offer combined psychiatric treatment. I received my psychiatric residency training from Georgetown University Hospital and fellowship in Psychosomatic Medicine from Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School.
(617) 231-9618 View (617) 231-9618
Photo of Angelo Asheh, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Angelo Asheh
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33132
He has expertise in Addictions, Depression/Anxiety, ADHD, Psychopharmacology, Prevention, and Pain.
Dr. Asheh emphasizes a “whole person” holistic approach to his treatment, taking physical, emotional, spiritual, and social health into account. His focus is on treating those with substance use disorders, those struggling with mental health, and those suffering from pain. Each encounter with Dr. Asheh is personalized to build a long-lasting individualized therapeutic alliance.
He has expertise in Addictions, Depression/Anxiety, ADHD, Psychopharmacology, Prevention, and Pain.
Dr. Asheh emphasizes a “whole person” holistic approach to his treatment, taking physical, emotional, spiritual, and social health into account. His focus is on treating those with substance use disorders, those struggling with mental health, and those suffering from pain. Each encounter with Dr. Asheh is personalized to build a long-lasting individualized therapeutic alliance.
(561) 556-6696 View (561) 556-6696
Photo of Shani Alam, MD, Psychiatrist
Shani Alam
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33107  (Online Only)
I have been practicing general adult psychiatry since 1997 and have extensive expertise in evaluating and treating individuals of all ages, as well as treating a wide variety of emotional and mental conditions that range from mood/anxiety disorders, substance abuse, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and eating disorders to consulting with clients about grief, trauma, work stress, relationship problems, adoption, legal cases, disability, and other major life changing events. I utilize biopsychosocial approach to mental illness that takes into account each individual's physical health, environment, and psychological experiences throughout their life.
I have been practicing general adult psychiatry since 1997 and have extensive expertise in evaluating and treating individuals of all ages, as well as treating a wide variety of emotional and mental conditions that range from mood/anxiety disorders, substance abuse, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and eating disorders to consulting with clients about grief, trauma, work stress, relationship problems, adoption, legal cases, disability, and other major life changing events. I utilize biopsychosocial approach to mental illness that takes into account each individual's physical health, environment, and psychological experiences throughout their life.
(512) 686-2315 View (512) 686-2315
Photo of Michelle Von Der Heyde - Mind Refined, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind Refined
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33175  (Online Only)
While my background lies in supporting those facing terminal illnesses, I have honed my skills in various therapeutic modalities, including individual counseling, crisis intervention, and psychopharmacology. I am dedicated to tailoring treatment plans that address not only mental health concerns but also the physical and emotional aspects that contribute to overall well-being.
While my background lies in supporting those facing terminal illnesses, I have honed my skills in various therapeutic modalities, including individual counseling, crisis intervention, and psychopharmacology. I am dedicated to tailoring treatment plans that address not only mental health concerns but also the physical and emotional aspects that contribute to overall well-being.
(786) 981-1380 View (786) 981-1380
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care , Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33142  (Online Only)
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
(786) 822-8685 View (786) 822-8685
Photo of Aline Paredes - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33156  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations, talk therapy, and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable visit rates. Accepting Medicare, Avmed, Optum/UHC/UBH, UMR and Cigna (Evernorth) insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations, talk therapy, and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable visit rates. Accepting Medicare, Avmed, Optum/UHC/UBH, UMR and Cigna (Evernorth) insurances.
(786) 460-2959 View (786) 460-2959
Photo of Dr. Irene Gan, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Irene Gan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling with mood swings? Maybe you're finding it hard to manage the demands of everyday life, or perhaps you're dealing with stress or mental health challenges that seem too heavy to carry on your own. Whatever you're facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. Your mental health and well-being are important, and I’m here to help you find balance, gain clarity, and live a more fulfilling life. Together, we can work through your challenges and set meaningful goals that bring you peace.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling with mood swings? Maybe you're finding it hard to manage the demands of everyday life, or perhaps you're dealing with stress or mental health challenges that seem too heavy to carry on your own. Whatever you're facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. Your mental health and well-being are important, and I’m here to help you find balance, gain clarity, and live a more fulfilling life. Together, we can work through your challenges and set meaningful goals that bring you peace.
(786) 305-6618 View (786) 305-6618
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33125
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
(786) 964-3625 View (786) 964-3625
Photo of Lourdez Velazquez, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lourdez Velazquez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33134
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
(305) 834-7985 View (305) 834-7985
Photo of Fariba Ostovary, APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fariba Ostovary
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33186
In the past 25 years, I have had the pleasure of working with individuals seeking a better quality of life through medication management and counseling. Integrating the whole person as an emotional, physical, spiritual being through integrated process has demonstrated effective in improving quality of life. Cognitive Behavioral therapy for treatment of most psychiatric symptoms & sensible Medication management approach provided in office or video. Same day appointments are available most days. To book an appointment: use my website or Text (305) 417-9149 with your preferred day and time.
In the past 25 years, I have had the pleasure of working with individuals seeking a better quality of life through medication management and counseling. Integrating the whole person as an emotional, physical, spiritual being through integrated process has demonstrated effective in improving quality of life. Cognitive Behavioral therapy for treatment of most psychiatric symptoms & sensible Medication management approach provided in office or video. Same day appointments are available most days. To book an appointment: use my website or Text (305) 417-9149 with your preferred day and time.
(786) 756-6978 View (786) 756-6978
Photo of Jonathan Stoudmire - Center for Emotional Health - Florida, MD, Psychiatrist
Center for Emotional Health - Florida
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33186
CEH offers traditional and alternative mental health services to ensure our patients have the best treatment and support available. CEH offers the following services: virtual + in-office appointments, therapy + counseling, medication management, medicated assisted treatment for substance abuse + veteran support services. CEH provides treatment for patients ages 4 and older, with a less-than two-week waiting period guaranteed at our 50+ office locations. CEH has convenient locations in North Carolina and Florida, including those serving the Jacksonville, Miami, Pembroke Pines, and Tampa areas.
CEH offers traditional and alternative mental health services to ensure our patients have the best treatment and support available. CEH offers the following services: virtual + in-office appointments, therapy + counseling, medication management, medicated assisted treatment for substance abuse + veteran support services. CEH provides treatment for patients ages 4 and older, with a less-than two-week waiting period guaranteed at our 50+ office locations. CEH has convenient locations in North Carolina and Florida, including those serving the Jacksonville, Miami, Pembroke Pines, and Tampa areas.
(786) 745-7232 View (786) 745-7232
Photo of Harmony United Psychiatric Care - Harmony United Psychiatric Care , Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33127
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services, offering accessible care from our offices or via a secure online platform. New clients are welcome, with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers address urgent needs. We offer Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted.
(561) 823-4694 View (561) 823-4694
Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33176  (Online Only)
We specialize in Telepsychiatry, offering convenient and secure online mental health services that allow you to receive care from the comfort of your home. Accepting New Clients: Same-day or next-day appointments available. We provide Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing both in-clinic and via Telepsychiatry across Florida. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children ages 5+. Most insurance plans accepted, including Medicare.
We specialize in Telepsychiatry, offering convenient and secure online mental health services that allow you to receive care from the comfort of your home. Accepting New Clients: Same-day or next-day appointments available. We provide Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing both in-clinic and via Telepsychiatry across Florida. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children ages 5+. Most insurance plans accepted, including Medicare.
(561) 264-0813 View (561) 264-0813
Photo of Dr. Kalvin K Kapoor - Vital Psych MD, DO, Psychiatrist
Vital Psych MD
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
Hi! Welcome to Dr. Kapoor's private practice. With over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health, our mission is to have a positive impact in your life by working on your present. Weather it is anxiety, depression, difficulty functioning at work or school, family conflicts, challenges in relationships, low self-esteem, or simply a desire to learn more about themselves; we can help. As a psychiatrist with deep expertise in the field, Dr. Kapoor creates a treatment plan that meets his client's needs. His style is guided by warmth and flexibility, with the goals of helping patients build insight and self esteem.
Hi! Welcome to Dr. Kapoor's private practice. With over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health, our mission is to have a positive impact in your life by working on your present. Weather it is anxiety, depression, difficulty functioning at work or school, family conflicts, challenges in relationships, low self-esteem, or simply a desire to learn more about themselves; we can help. As a psychiatrist with deep expertise in the field, Dr. Kapoor creates a treatment plan that meets his client's needs. His style is guided by warmth and flexibility, with the goals of helping patients build insight and self esteem.
(786) 613-4175 View (786) 613-4175
Photo of Lidia Gladney - Sharlynn Cares Psychiatry, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sharlynn Cares Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33127  (Online Only)
Sharlynn Cares is committed to providing mental healthcare services to the youth in our communities who are most vulnerable to confronting emotional challenges. We take a holistic approach to mental wellness that can help fill the gaps in our healthcare system. A simple pill is not the only solution to psychological or emotional distress. Depression, in particular, is a treatable disease, and I whole-heartedly believe that a more faith-based and holistic approach is needed in today's society. Sharlynn Cares is here to help protect our communities’ youth.
Sharlynn Cares is committed to providing mental healthcare services to the youth in our communities who are most vulnerable to confronting emotional challenges. We take a holistic approach to mental wellness that can help fill the gaps in our healthcare system. A simple pill is not the only solution to psychological or emotional distress. Depression, in particular, is a treatable disease, and I whole-heartedly believe that a more faith-based and holistic approach is needed in today's society. Sharlynn Cares is here to help protect our communities’ youth.
(407) 378-2569 View (407) 378-2569
Photo of Pascale Davis - MiamiPsych Concierge-Virtual Psychiatric Care, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MiamiPsych Concierge-Virtual Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33132  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. MiamiPsych Concierge offers affordable tele-psych services to everyone with busy demanding lifestyles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting Optum/UHC/UBH, Cigna (Evernorth) and Medicare insurance.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. MiamiPsych Concierge offers affordable tele-psych services to everyone with busy demanding lifestyles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable out-of-pocket rates. Accepting Optum/UHC/UBH, Cigna (Evernorth) and Medicare insurance.
(786) 420-4833 View (786) 420-4833
1
Chronic Pain Psychiatrists

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.