Chronic Pain Therapists in Anaheim, CA
![Photo of Raymond LoCascio, CHT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b84b73-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
With your physicians referral; *Pre and Post Surgery Hypnotherapy generally reduces stress, while lowering anesthesia and pain medication requirements, reducing discomfort.
As a clinical Hypnotherapist I see clients in my private practice office in Corona, California. I am here to help you learn to relax, change unwanted habits, build self esteem and achieve your goals enabling you to enjoy and experience life without unnecessary challenges. Some common issues that can be treated with hypnosis include: *Weight Management*Self Control*Smoking Cessation*Stress Management and Relaxation Techniques *Improving Sleep Habits *Focus/Drifting Attention *Goals and Motivation *Sports Success Patterns *Fitness Motivation *Students Test Anxiety and *Fear of Flying.
With your physicians referral; *Pre and Post Surgery Hypnotherapy generally reduces stress, while lowering anesthesia and pain medication requirements, reducing discomfort.
As a clinical Hypnotherapist I see clients in my private practice office in Corona, California. I am here to help you learn to relax, change unwanted habits, build self esteem and achieve your goals enabling you to enjoy and experience life without unnecessary challenges. Some common issues that can be treated with hypnosis include: *Weight Management*Self Control*Smoking Cessation*Stress Management and Relaxation Techniques *Improving Sleep Habits *Focus/Drifting Attention *Goals and Motivation *Sports Success Patterns *Fitness Motivation *Students Test Anxiety and *Fear of Flying.
![Photo of Natalie K Schmitz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44d10c55-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with teens (15 and up), adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have extensive experience with mental illness, addiction, parenting, marital difficulties, and LGBTQ issues. Most of the time, people have tried a variety of solutions before coming to me for help. Together, we can explore your concerns, your goals, your strengths, and the obstacles that are keeping you stuck or holding you back. In most cases, long-term therapy is not necessary. My goal is to help you heal and grow to the point that you no longer need therapy as quickly as possible.
I enjoy working with teens (15 and up), adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have extensive experience with mental illness, addiction, parenting, marital difficulties, and LGBTQ issues. Most of the time, people have tried a variety of solutions before coming to me for help. Together, we can explore your concerns, your goals, your strengths, and the obstacles that are keeping you stuck or holding you back. In most cases, long-term therapy is not necessary. My goal is to help you heal and grow to the point that you no longer need therapy as quickly as possible.
![Photo of Diana On, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20fa94ab-124e-4f2d-93ca-4324609588eb/1/320x400.png)
Although I treat a variety of mental health disorders (ex: ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD), I also help people facing other issues such as: grief/loss, chronic illness/pain, major life events, infertility, self-esteem.
Hi there, I'm Diana On, LCSW 80518. I believe that all healthy, successful therapeutic relationships are built on trust, communication, and commitment. I do my best to be authentic and sincere to create a safe space for people to be heard, be supported, and to grow. I use my own personal and professional experiences to work alongside clients and help others tap into their own inherent strengths to enhance their success. The foundation of my work is in forging strong alliances and in providing critical info and education to foster self-awareness and one's development.
Although I treat a variety of mental health disorders (ex: ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD), I also help people facing other issues such as: grief/loss, chronic illness/pain, major life events, infertility, self-esteem.
Hi there, I'm Diana On, LCSW 80518. I believe that all healthy, successful therapeutic relationships are built on trust, communication, and commitment. I do my best to be authentic and sincere to create a safe space for people to be heard, be supported, and to grow. I use my own personal and professional experiences to work alongside clients and help others tap into their own inherent strengths to enhance their success. The foundation of my work is in forging strong alliances and in providing critical info and education to foster self-awareness and one's development.
![Photo of Liliana E. Llamas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05991e02-0783-47cb-9114-866205021e22/3/320x400.jpeg)
Liliana E. Llamas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92808 (Online Only)
As a clinical therapist, I aim to empower you by understanding the ties between your thoughts, past experiences, current stressors, and emotional pain.
Taking the step towards therapy is an act of courage and self-care, and I'm deeply honored to be part of your transformative journey towards personal growth. I am truly passionate about helping you discover inner peace and resilience to create a sense of belonging within yourself. Together, we will navigate the obstacles that may have made you experienced fear, loss, rejection, or feel like you weren't enough. With over fourteen years of experience, my specialization lies in supporting emerging generation and adults facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, loss, or life adjustments.
As a clinical therapist, I aim to empower you by understanding the ties between your thoughts, past experiences, current stressors, and emotional pain.
Taking the step towards therapy is an act of courage and self-care, and I'm deeply honored to be part of your transformative journey towards personal growth. I am truly passionate about helping you discover inner peace and resilience to create a sense of belonging within yourself. Together, we will navigate the obstacles that may have made you experienced fear, loss, rejection, or feel like you weren't enough. With over fourteen years of experience, my specialization lies in supporting emerging generation and adults facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, loss, or life adjustments.
![Photo of M. Noemi Vidal, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b9f5986-53ac-4187-8565-9a4d5a74e3e8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, substance abuse, trauma, self esteem, chronic/ terminal illness, couples, and family issues.
Mental health disorders, especially anxiety and depression, are one of the most significant public health problems facing the world in the 21st Century. Depression is now the leading cause of disability around the world, being chronic/toxic stress the main cause of these conditions . Fortunately, depression, anxiety and many other mental health conditions, properly diagnosed and treated, can be stabilized and reverse, allowing clients to return to their normal routine and enjoy a healthier and happier life.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, substance abuse, trauma, self esteem, chronic/ terminal illness, couples, and family issues.
Mental health disorders, especially anxiety and depression, are one of the most significant public health problems facing the world in the 21st Century. Depression is now the leading cause of disability around the world, being chronic/toxic stress the main cause of these conditions . Fortunately, depression, anxiety and many other mental health conditions, properly diagnosed and treated, can be stabilized and reverse, allowing clients to return to their normal routine and enjoy a healthier and happier life.
![Photo of Dr. Karin Celosse, PsyD, MSCP, MPH, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/044e1100-c42b-4cf3-908d-c7409c215e8d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Karin Celosse
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92805 (Online Only)
I have unique insights into a variety of concerns - especially as related to trauma, substance use, and chronic mental illness.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in health- and neuro-psychology as well as the treament of individuals who struggle with SMI, SUD, and housing instability as well as the impact from chronic health concerns.
I have unique insights into a variety of concerns - especially as related to trauma, substance use, and chronic mental illness.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in health- and neuro-psychology as well as the treament of individuals who struggle with SMI, SUD, and housing instability as well as the impact from chronic health concerns.
![Photo of Sara Kolsin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb0032fa-8892-4a08-9fd6-d24d23e9ec34/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have specialties in working with sexual assault/rape and child abuse survivors, the LGBTQIA+ community, addicts, those who are grieving or experiencing chronic medical illness, and veterans.
“What is to give light must endure burning.” ― Victor Frankl. Everyone needs someone to hear them. I am here to lend an ear, be present when life gets tough, and assist you in finding coping skills to weather any storm successfully. Life can be confusing and stressful and we all need a helping hand in becoming the best version of ourselves. My practice consists of working with teenage and adult individuals that want to become stronger, feel better about themselves, and want to move past their past. I truly believe that our past holds us hostage and prevents us from being in, and enjoying, the present moments in life.
I have specialties in working with sexual assault/rape and child abuse survivors, the LGBTQIA+ community, addicts, those who are grieving or experiencing chronic medical illness, and veterans.
“What is to give light must endure burning.” ― Victor Frankl. Everyone needs someone to hear them. I am here to lend an ear, be present when life gets tough, and assist you in finding coping skills to weather any storm successfully. Life can be confusing and stressful and we all need a helping hand in becoming the best version of ourselves. My practice consists of working with teenage and adult individuals that want to become stronger, feel better about themselves, and want to move past their past. I truly believe that our past holds us hostage and prevents us from being in, and enjoying, the present moments in life.
![Photo of Erica Feldman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c93d72ba-bf1b-482a-84dc-f5d50dd8fa72/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use a variety of CBT and ACT-based strategies, especially for clients who want concrete outcomes, such as reducing anxiety, coping with chronic illness or pain, etc.
Hi, I am Erica Feldman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am based in the Bay Area and have been a psychotherapist for nearly 20 years. In addition to my own private practice started six years ago, I have worked in settings such as outpatient mental health, behavioral health navigation, hospice/bereavement, and with veterans. My style reflects the various professional experiences I've had; at the foundation is always a client-centered approach. It's important to listen to what the client's goals are, and together we determine the best style for them with my expertise.
I use a variety of CBT and ACT-based strategies, especially for clients who want concrete outcomes, such as reducing anxiety, coping with chronic illness or pain, etc.
Hi, I am Erica Feldman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am based in the Bay Area and have been a psychotherapist for nearly 20 years. In addition to my own private practice started six years ago, I have worked in settings such as outpatient mental health, behavioral health navigation, hospice/bereavement, and with veterans. My style reflects the various professional experiences I've had; at the foundation is always a client-centered approach. It's important to listen to what the client's goals are, and together we determine the best style for them with my expertise.
![Photo of David Pincus, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c0f7417-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to training in the most effective behavioral approaches to anxiety (including panic and OCD) and symptoms of depression, I have specialty training in child, family, and marital therapy and also in guided imagery for pain management.
I am an Tenured Professor of Clinical Psychology at Chapman University (for my academic background, click here or paste in browser: https://www.chapman.edu/our-faculty/david-pincus). Of my various pursuits, psychotherapy is what I enjoy doing most. I been practicing therapy since 1992, and have benefited from the best possible training along the way. I am confident in knowing what makes therapy effective, but also in the uniqueness of each person's situation. My style is down-to-earth and practical. My job is basically to help you get you where you want to be in life in the simplest way that we can find.
In addition to training in the most effective behavioral approaches to anxiety (including panic and OCD) and symptoms of depression, I have specialty training in child, family, and marital therapy and also in guided imagery for pain management.
I am an Tenured Professor of Clinical Psychology at Chapman University (for my academic background, click here or paste in browser: https://www.chapman.edu/our-faculty/david-pincus). Of my various pursuits, psychotherapy is what I enjoy doing most. I been practicing therapy since 1992, and have benefited from the best possible training along the way. I am confident in knowing what makes therapy effective, but also in the uniqueness of each person's situation. My style is down-to-earth and practical. My job is basically to help you get you where you want to be in life in the simplest way that we can find.
![Photo of Melissa Fisher Goldman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/530580d9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Some examples of life transitions: grief and loss, challenges growing a family, death and dying, anxiety/ depression, starting a family, self esteem/self worth, dating/marriage, divorce, new job/new home, graduating, retirement, empty-nest, menopause, illness, identity/sexual orientation issues, addiction/recovery (including eating disorders), aging & anything unique to you that causes change.
You can have an amazing life; the life you've always wanted. As an expert in counseling surrounding death and dying, I have discovered that the issues encountered due to grief and loss are the same with all life transitions. This is even true for those transitions that are positives in our lives. This concept is what drives my approach to assisting you through life's transitions with ease and comfort. This will give you the opportunity to create a life of peace, love and joy. I look forward to being a part of your journey
Some examples of life transitions: grief and loss, challenges growing a family, death and dying, anxiety/ depression, starting a family, self esteem/self worth, dating/marriage, divorce, new job/new home, graduating, retirement, empty-nest, menopause, illness, identity/sexual orientation issues, addiction/recovery (including eating disorders), aging & anything unique to you that causes change.
You can have an amazing life; the life you've always wanted. As an expert in counseling surrounding death and dying, I have discovered that the issues encountered due to grief and loss are the same with all life transitions. This is even true for those transitions that are positives in our lives. This concept is what drives my approach to assisting you through life's transitions with ease and comfort. This will give you the opportunity to create a life of peace, love and joy. I look forward to being a part of your journey
![Photo of Jennifer C Cohen, MACL, LMFT, C-IAYT, RYT 500, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc533485-bd68-47a1-8125-a4a45fd0092d/1/320x400.png)
Jennifer C Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACL, LMFT, C-IAYT, RYT 500
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92806 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic medical, and spirituality.
My general frame work is that you cannot separate the body from the mind nor can you separate a person from their life time of experiences, therefore working with all of these systems is a highly effective way to improve happiness, decrease anxiety and stress, and increase coping skills to manage life with more ease and improved relationships. Now offering emergency Intensive Couples Counseling! I work well with individuals and couples who are seeking to learn more holistic ways to address their emotional and relational challenges whether they be family of origin issues, trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic medical, and spirituality.
My general frame work is that you cannot separate the body from the mind nor can you separate a person from their life time of experiences, therefore working with all of these systems is a highly effective way to improve happiness, decrease anxiety and stress, and increase coping skills to manage life with more ease and improved relationships. Now offering emergency Intensive Couples Counseling! I work well with individuals and couples who are seeking to learn more holistic ways to address their emotional and relational challenges whether they be family of origin issues, trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
![Photo of James Rubins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b46fa12-ee16-4e55-a034-e2d40c6f6058/2/320x400.jpeg)
In our first session, I'll learn about what is bothering you and what you have tried to do to relieve the pain or suffering you are currently experiencing.
Hello, I'm James Rubins, a licensed therapist in California with over 40 years of experience counseling individuals, adolescents, and families. I have wide experience in hospitals, community mental health clinics, and private practice office settings. I've helped people with anxiety, depression, anger management, and more, and have decades of experience supporting people in recovery from alcohol and or drug abuse. I was trained in psychodynamic therapy but now find short-term Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is more effective for client needs.
In our first session, I'll learn about what is bothering you and what you have tried to do to relieve the pain or suffering you are currently experiencing.
Hello, I'm James Rubins, a licensed therapist in California with over 40 years of experience counseling individuals, adolescents, and families. I have wide experience in hospitals, community mental health clinics, and private practice office settings. I've helped people with anxiety, depression, anger management, and more, and have decades of experience supporting people in recovery from alcohol and or drug abuse. I was trained in psychodynamic therapy but now find short-term Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is more effective for client needs.
![Photo of Judy Lynn Speak, RN, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/423a4819-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Soren Kierkegaard, the Danish philosopher, said "Be that self which one truly is" If we are to "be that self", we must embrace our own life. I believe that by giving people the tools to do this and learning how to use those tools is what therapy is about.
Soren Kierkegaard, the Danish philosopher, said "Be that self which one truly is" If we are to "be that self", we must embrace our own life. I believe that by giving people the tools to do this and learning how to use those tools is what therapy is about.
![Photo of Kathleen A Endara, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/238133e5-fced-4c4d-b70e-c1375fa080cb/3/320x400.jpeg)
**ASSOCIATE? LOOKING FOR SUPERVISION?? CALL ME** I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who wants to help you gain the insight you need to live your best life. If anxiety, sadness, past hurts and/or relationship problems are keeping you up at night--or distracted during the day--let's put our heads together and help you feel better. I realize that creating meaningful change in our lives sometimes requires collaboration, accountability and coaching. I’m here to support you, to help you navigate your most difficult obstacles so you can move from simply surviving to steady significance. Sometimes, we all need a little help.
**ASSOCIATE? LOOKING FOR SUPERVISION?? CALL ME** I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who wants to help you gain the insight you need to live your best life. If anxiety, sadness, past hurts and/or relationship problems are keeping you up at night--or distracted during the day--let's put our heads together and help you feel better. I realize that creating meaningful change in our lives sometimes requires collaboration, accountability and coaching. I’m here to support you, to help you navigate your most difficult obstacles so you can move from simply surviving to steady significance. Sometimes, we all need a little help.
![Photo of Leslie Romero-Gallegos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35c232ad-0e7e-464b-abe6-d7908650e332/1/320x400.png)
Hello, My name is Leslie Romero-Gallegos and I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in Southern California. I work with adult individuals who are struggling in many areas of their mental health.
Hello, My name is Leslie Romero-Gallegos and I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in Southern California. I work with adult individuals who are struggling in many areas of their mental health.
![Photo of Taylor Harris, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93204f67-708a-443d-a93a-fae9cbc82e18/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to a safe space for healing and self-discovery. I'm Taylor Harris, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), based in Los Angeles, California, and working with adult clients statewide via telehealth. My approach to therapy is grounded in humanistic, person-centered, and existential modalities, fostering empowerment, self-acceptance, and meaning making. If you're ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, I'm here to support you every step of the way. I work with adults from diverse backgrounds who are seeking support for a wide range of concerns.
Welcome to a safe space for healing and self-discovery. I'm Taylor Harris, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), based in Los Angeles, California, and working with adult clients statewide via telehealth. My approach to therapy is grounded in humanistic, person-centered, and existential modalities, fostering empowerment, self-acceptance, and meaning making. If you're ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, I'm here to support you every step of the way. I work with adults from diverse backgrounds who are seeking support for a wide range of concerns.
![Photo of Shannon Ashburn, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5641a298-cbdd-4ea6-ad1f-71867fc16db9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and I have been working in the counseling field since 2010. I have experience working in Child Welfare, non-profit, and private practice settings with individuals, couples, families, and groups who are experiencing a wide range of challenges. Much of my experience has been dedicated to helping those affected by trauma. My experience with this hurting population spans over 12 years. I am trained in Trauma-Informed Practice and have assisted individuals and families in overcoming barriers to personal emotional and psychological safety.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and I have been working in the counseling field since 2010. I have experience working in Child Welfare, non-profit, and private practice settings with individuals, couples, families, and groups who are experiencing a wide range of challenges. Much of my experience has been dedicated to helping those affected by trauma. My experience with this hurting population spans over 12 years. I am trained in Trauma-Informed Practice and have assisted individuals and families in overcoming barriers to personal emotional and psychological safety.
![Photo of Dalia Kenig, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7b74a55-a159-45fc-86e3-f165c5f179bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dalia Kenig. Licensed Psychotherapist, LMFT. My approach to therapy is holistic. I focus on YOU, beyond just symptoms and diagnosis. I look at the whole person that you are and address your emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual needs, identifying what is out of balance and working with you to create the optimal conditions to heal, recover and get better. I consider the needs of my clients and offer them a variety of approaches I have been trained in over the last 25yrs.
Dalia Kenig. Licensed Psychotherapist, LMFT. My approach to therapy is holistic. I focus on YOU, beyond just symptoms and diagnosis. I look at the whole person that you are and address your emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual needs, identifying what is out of balance and working with you to create the optimal conditions to heal, recover and get better. I consider the needs of my clients and offer them a variety of approaches I have been trained in over the last 25yrs.
![Photo of Selena Kradolfer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c7d13e3-7f38-42a7-9c4d-6bc02c1cfde5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I choose to practice trauma-informed care because intention and corrective experiences are important aspects of healing. As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I provide psychotherapy for youth and adults of all ages in individual, couples and family sessions. I value helping clients identify strategies they can apply towards stressors that are impacting their lives in order to experience relief from suffering, develop communication skills, practice healthy coping skills, and improve confidence. I love championing my clients towards their best selves, while contributing encouragement, empathy, and hope for a bright future!
I choose to practice trauma-informed care because intention and corrective experiences are important aspects of healing. As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I provide psychotherapy for youth and adults of all ages in individual, couples and family sessions. I value helping clients identify strategies they can apply towards stressors that are impacting their lives in order to experience relief from suffering, develop communication skills, practice healthy coping skills, and improve confidence. I love championing my clients towards their best selves, while contributing encouragement, empathy, and hope for a bright future!
![Photo of Alysha Kim, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc216a31-e485-4808-923f-22b23bb247d2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alysha Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801 (Online Only)
You may find yourself constantly doubting yourself, often asking others for their input about major life decisions. You may feel that others “have it all together” while feeling overwhelmed with your roles and responsibilities. You may worry about everyone else’s needs but feel empty when you’ve made sure everyone else is taken care of. If any of this is true for you, you’ve come to the right place. Therapy is a safe and supportive haven to remind you that YOU matter. Your desires, strengths, and needs deserve to be held and acknowledged.
You may find yourself constantly doubting yourself, often asking others for their input about major life decisions. You may feel that others “have it all together” while feeling overwhelmed with your roles and responsibilities. You may worry about everyone else’s needs but feel empty when you’ve made sure everyone else is taken care of. If any of this is true for you, you’ve come to the right place. Therapy is a safe and supportive haven to remind you that YOU matter. Your desires, strengths, and needs deserve to be held and acknowledged.
See more therapy options for Anaheim
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Anaheim
- Anaheim Hills
- Brea
- Buena Park
- Fullerton
- Garden Grove
- La Habra
- La Mirada
- Orange
- Placentia
- Santa Ana
- Westminster
- Yorba Linda
Chronic Pain Therapists
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.