Chronic Pain Therapists in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
![Photo of Magena Ammen, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4aef5506-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Magena Ammen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 (Online Only)
Relief from pain is possible.
You are so done with having to drag yourself out of bed, drinking 10 cups of coffee just to feel something, and giving self-inflicted pep talks that don't friggin' work! Maybe your friends or family don't even notice and they think you're doing GREAT! In reality it’s a struggle keeping it together. You’re white knuckling it and somehow managing to save face. If you’ve made it here, you’re ready to work through what’s bothering you so that life can feel less painful. Whether you’re going through trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, or relationship issues you’re in the right place.
Relief from pain is possible.
You are so done with having to drag yourself out of bed, drinking 10 cups of coffee just to feel something, and giving self-inflicted pep talks that don't friggin' work! Maybe your friends or family don't even notice and they think you're doing GREAT! In reality it’s a struggle keeping it together. You’re white knuckling it and somehow managing to save face. If you’ve made it here, you’re ready to work through what’s bothering you so that life can feel less painful. Whether you’re going through trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, or relationship issues you’re in the right place.
![Photo of Donna Savage, MSE, MBA, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b339ba4-cfc9-4036-b650-842f64883b0d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Donna Savage
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSE, MBA, MS
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
I have extensive experience in helping clients overcome all forms of anxiety, including panic, obsessive-compulsive disorders, past trauma and abuse, and the depression that can often result. I am also passionate about working with individuals and couples to help resolve relational challenges and navigate issues related to life and career transitions. Additional areas of specialization include infidelity, grief/loss, chronic illness, and spiritual concerns. I offer an accepting environment in which you can feel known, understood, and honored for the unique person you were created to be individually and in relationship with others.
I have extensive experience in helping clients overcome all forms of anxiety, including panic, obsessive-compulsive disorders, past trauma and abuse, and the depression that can often result. I am also passionate about working with individuals and couples to help resolve relational challenges and navigate issues related to life and career transitions. Additional areas of specialization include infidelity, grief/loss, chronic illness, and spiritual concerns. I offer an accepting environment in which you can feel known, understood, and honored for the unique person you were created to be individually and in relationship with others.
![Photo of Nora Taylor, MA, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fe2c4cc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also integrate various approaches such as CBT, mindfulness, and specialized mind/body techniques including Sensorimotor psychotherapy and EMDR that provide relief from trauma, pain, & distress.
If you're struggling with marital/relationship problems, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or a traumatic experience(s), I'm here to help. I also provide therapy for those having difficulty coping with a crisis, a stressful life transition, or a painful loss due to a break-up, divorce, or death. As a psychologist, I embrace the traditional values of developing a comfortable and trusting relationship with clients. The relationship I build is my priority and the primary means to help you feel better. Together, we'll help you develop greater self-awareness and a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
I also integrate various approaches such as CBT, mindfulness, and specialized mind/body techniques including Sensorimotor psychotherapy and EMDR that provide relief from trauma, pain, & distress.
If you're struggling with marital/relationship problems, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or a traumatic experience(s), I'm here to help. I also provide therapy for those having difficulty coping with a crisis, a stressful life transition, or a painful loss due to a break-up, divorce, or death. As a psychologist, I embrace the traditional values of developing a comfortable and trusting relationship with clients. The relationship I build is my priority and the primary means to help you feel better. Together, we'll help you develop greater self-awareness and a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
![Photo of Pat Alford-Keating, PhD, ABPP, CGP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca5cca4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Trained Hypnotherapist: I sometimes use hypnotherapy to help clients with anxiety, sleep problems, motivation, and pain management.
As a culturally competent psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I have worked with a broad range of clients, suffering from a wide spectrum of problems. When people are confronted with life challenges, there is an opportunity to grow, constructively face them, and overcome. I endeavor to provide a comfortable, supportive environment where clients can explore and work through problems. I also build on client strengths and resilience. My goal is to help clients thrive, creating fulfilling, productive lives, and satisfying relationships. I deeply value my clients and am sensitive to and respectful of every form of human diversity.
Trained Hypnotherapist: I sometimes use hypnotherapy to help clients with anxiety, sleep problems, motivation, and pain management.
As a culturally competent psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I have worked with a broad range of clients, suffering from a wide spectrum of problems. When people are confronted with life challenges, there is an opportunity to grow, constructively face them, and overcome. I endeavor to provide a comfortable, supportive environment where clients can explore and work through problems. I also build on client strengths and resilience. My goal is to help clients thrive, creating fulfilling, productive lives, and satisfying relationships. I deeply value my clients and am sensitive to and respectful of every form of human diversity.
![Photo of Deana R. Straus, MS, MFT, CAMF, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d1cf2e2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deana R. Straus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT, CAMF
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Taking the First Step is the Hardest...it is also the Most COURAGEOUS. I provide Counseling, Anger Management & Parenting. I work with adults, children, individuals, couples & families. I help those having difficulties in life to improve relationships & communication and to deal with STRESS, ANGER, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, TRAUMA, GRIEF and LOSS in healthy ways. I can help change negative thinking and unhealthy behavior, improve self-esteem AND move past TRAUMA.
Taking the First Step is the Hardest...it is also the Most COURAGEOUS. I provide Counseling, Anger Management & Parenting. I work with adults, children, individuals, couples & families. I help those having difficulties in life to improve relationships & communication and to deal with STRESS, ANGER, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, TRAUMA, GRIEF and LOSS in healthy ways. I can help change negative thinking and unhealthy behavior, improve self-esteem AND move past TRAUMA.
![Photo of Linda Thompson - Dr. Linda Thompson, PhD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41841fcc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
![Photo of Dr. David Hirohama, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c2f162a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Reproductive Psychology: What is your reproductive story? Are you thinking about getting pregnant? Are you pregnant now? Have you recently given birth? Have you experienced reproductive trauma? All of these are stages in a process that is filled with a unique set of psychological and emotional challenges. In addition to my full clinical practice, I have helped many clients-and their partners-develop effective strategies for this challenging and winding path. Call or email and let's get started. Areas of focus: Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, postpartum depression, stress management, emotional regulation, partner/family issues.
Reproductive Psychology: What is your reproductive story? Are you thinking about getting pregnant? Are you pregnant now? Have you recently given birth? Have you experienced reproductive trauma? All of these are stages in a process that is filled with a unique set of psychological and emotional challenges. In addition to my full clinical practice, I have helped many clients-and their partners-develop effective strategies for this challenging and winding path. Call or email and let's get started. Areas of focus: Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, postpartum depression, stress management, emotional regulation, partner/family issues.
![Photo of Amy Pesceone - Hypnotherapist & Life Coach, MA, CHT, CLC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba5c0ab8-d70b-4278-95aa-58c200b229e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hypnotherapist & Life Coach
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CHT, CLC
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 (Online Only)
Have you spent time in traditional talk therapy and still feel stuck? Are you repeating old negative patterns in your life that you want to change? Choosing toxic relationships, career challenges, weight loss, the list is endless. You may consciously understand the root cause of many of your problems, yet aren't thinking, feeling and behaving the way you desire. Our subconscious old limiting belief systems take charge much of the time. I provide Hypnotherapy and Life Coaching, and have 20 years of experience as a talk therapist. I'm confident I will help you overcome any problems you're having using this powerful combination.
Have you spent time in traditional talk therapy and still feel stuck? Are you repeating old negative patterns in your life that you want to change? Choosing toxic relationships, career challenges, weight loss, the list is endless. You may consciously understand the root cause of many of your problems, yet aren't thinking, feeling and behaving the way you desire. Our subconscious old limiting belief systems take charge much of the time. I provide Hypnotherapy and Life Coaching, and have 20 years of experience as a talk therapist. I'm confident I will help you overcome any problems you're having using this powerful combination.
![Photo of Carol Francis - Counseling for Couples & Families, PsyD, MFCC, CHT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca388cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling for Couples & Families
Psychologist, PsyD, MFCC, CHT
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Relationships between husbands, wives, lovers, boy/girl friends, children or parents can be tricky. Happy, satisfying and fulfilling relationships require attention, energy, fun, humor, communication, time and investment of yourself. Too often relationships are hampered by misunderstandings, hurtful actions, stress, differences of opinions, unmet needs, and different expectations. Personality changes over time, affairs of the heart, infidelity, unmet sexual intimacy, abuse, cruel words, neglect, self-centeredness, different communication styles, different goals, values and dissimilar interests or fun activities also create unhappiness in relationships. Dr. Carol Francis has worked with relationships satisfaction for 32 years. 310-543-1824 or RelationshipSatisfactionNow.com and drcarolfrancis.com pathstosuccesses.com
Relationships between husbands, wives, lovers, boy/girl friends, children or parents can be tricky. Happy, satisfying and fulfilling relationships require attention, energy, fun, humor, communication, time and investment of yourself. Too often relationships are hampered by misunderstandings, hurtful actions, stress, differences of opinions, unmet needs, and different expectations. Personality changes over time, affairs of the heart, infidelity, unmet sexual intimacy, abuse, cruel words, neglect, self-centeredness, different communication styles, different goals, values and dissimilar interests or fun activities also create unhappiness in relationships. Dr. Carol Francis has worked with relationships satisfaction for 32 years. 310-543-1824 or RelationshipSatisfactionNow.com and drcarolfrancis.com pathstosuccesses.com
![Photo of Maryam Dalili, PsyD, LMFT, EFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0c0772a-7c2d-4c7e-bc43-074c846abc27/3/320x400.jpeg)
Maryam Dalili
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, EFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90275
ARE you there for me? Do I matter to you? Do you love me? Can I trust you? Are you there when I reach out to you? Experiencing difficulties in your relationships? Having trouble finding meaning in life? Noticing persistent patterns of conflict ?Are you tired of the same old arguments? Are you on the verge of break up or divorce? I HELP COUPLES FIND LOVE AGAIN I want to help you learn how to manage this relational stress, rebuild your bond with your partner and have the relationship you want.
ARE you there for me? Do I matter to you? Do you love me? Can I trust you? Are you there when I reach out to you? Experiencing difficulties in your relationships? Having trouble finding meaning in life? Noticing persistent patterns of conflict ?Are you tired of the same old arguments? Are you on the verge of break up or divorce? I HELP COUPLES FIND LOVE AGAIN I want to help you learn how to manage this relational stress, rebuild your bond with your partner and have the relationship you want.
![Photo of Lysa Eastman, PhD, LEP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0901aa6-af46-4b15-99b4-0dffd82270de/4/320x400.png)
Welcome! Finding the right therapist can be challenging. I work to establish a collaborative relationship with each of my clients that is accepting and non-judgmental. Building a connection that is supportive, authentic and collaborative can provide a space for you to understand the habits and patterns that make you feel hopeless and stuck. Together, we can find hope, growth and change.
Welcome! Finding the right therapist can be challenging. I work to establish a collaborative relationship with each of my clients that is accepting and non-judgmental. Building a connection that is supportive, authentic and collaborative can provide a space for you to understand the habits and patterns that make you feel hopeless and stuck. Together, we can find hope, growth and change.
15 Second Videos
Magena Ammen
Dr. Linda Thompson
Maryam Dalili
![Photo of Carol Francis - Counseling Adults, Children & Couples, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca3c1ae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling Adults, Children & Couples
Psychologist, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
![Photo of Charles Taylor, MHA, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9441ca1-f79e-4554-8d24-0a1883725aea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charles Taylor
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHA, ACSW
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90275
As a husband and father, I understand that it’s hard living up to the hype of a working professional, teen, or couple residing in the ambitious LA Southbay. You appear successful & like you have it “all together” but deep down are struggling to feel confident in who you are or cope with challenging experiences that have occurred in your life. Prior to becoming an Executive Therapist & EMDR Trauma specialist, I spent years in top universities and high stress corporate environments. As a result, I understand the pressures of school, work, and family life and can provide insight, strategies, and support to help you succeed and thrive.
As a husband and father, I understand that it’s hard living up to the hype of a working professional, teen, or couple residing in the ambitious LA Southbay. You appear successful & like you have it “all together” but deep down are struggling to feel confident in who you are or cope with challenging experiences that have occurred in your life. Prior to becoming an Executive Therapist & EMDR Trauma specialist, I spent years in top universities and high stress corporate environments. As a result, I understand the pressures of school, work, and family life and can provide insight, strategies, and support to help you succeed and thrive.
![Photo of Jacqueline Valdovinos, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68db7d98-91f8-4fea-9953-ab2cb22f6901/2/320x400.png)
Jacqueline Valdovinos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90275
My ideal client would be someone who is going through a life transition. My client would want to learn exercises to become a stong and independent individual.
My ideal client would be someone who is going through a life transition. My client would want to learn exercises to become a stong and independent individual.
![Photo of Heather Clark, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54e81536-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can feel seen, heard and accepted. I believe it is the relationship between client and therapist where so much of the work happens. We can work collaboratively to explore relational patterns, understand the connection between thoughts, emotions and behavior, and get curious about what may be holding you back from a deeper connection to self and others.
My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can feel seen, heard and accepted. I believe it is the relationship between client and therapist where so much of the work happens. We can work collaboratively to explore relational patterns, understand the connection between thoughts, emotions and behavior, and get curious about what may be holding you back from a deeper connection to self and others.
![Photo of Julia M McHugh, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e9e16e3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you ready for a change? I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with an office in Torrance, CA across from the Del Amo Mall. I believe in everyone's ability to live a better life through healing and change in a sportive, caring environment designed to attend personal needs. I provide individual and family therapy to address the many struggles and life issues we all face. My practice includes psychological testing (IQ, SSI, PTSD, Personality, Education, Development, Autism/ADHD diagnosis). I strive to meet every client where they are and tailor specific treatment to facilitate growth and happiness through positive change.
Are you ready for a change? I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with an office in Torrance, CA across from the Del Amo Mall. I believe in everyone's ability to live a better life through healing and change in a sportive, caring environment designed to attend personal needs. I provide individual and family therapy to address the many struggles and life issues we all face. My practice includes psychological testing (IQ, SSI, PTSD, Personality, Education, Development, Autism/ADHD diagnosis). I strive to meet every client where they are and tailor specific treatment to facilitate growth and happiness through positive change.
![Photo of Bertha Ramos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c2ce0b2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bertha Ramos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
No matter what life may bring you, I encourage you to find that small light that will guide you to a much better you. Depending on the individual needs, I use a variety of approaches with my clients.
No matter what life may bring you, I encourage you to find that small light that will guide you to a much better you. Depending on the individual needs, I use a variety of approaches with my clients.
![Photo of Kristin Murphy, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb01e5f7-6aef-4166-90f2-d0e242922b72/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
And through it all...there was space to heal. Thank you for being here. It's not always easy to show up for yourself. Therapy can offer a way to process emotions that may be painful or uncomfortable and learn how to cope with overwhelm in a safe + supportive environment. Whatever brought you to this page, I welcome you for taking this step. Whether you are experiencing anxious feelings, stress, overwhelm, sadness, anger, lack of motivation, fatigue, or just generally feeling as if something is off. I encourage you to commit to yourself to explore the parts of you that are in need of tending to.
And through it all...there was space to heal. Thank you for being here. It's not always easy to show up for yourself. Therapy can offer a way to process emotions that may be painful or uncomfortable and learn how to cope with overwhelm in a safe + supportive environment. Whatever brought you to this page, I welcome you for taking this step. Whether you are experiencing anxious feelings, stress, overwhelm, sadness, anger, lack of motivation, fatigue, or just generally feeling as if something is off. I encourage you to commit to yourself to explore the parts of you that are in need of tending to.
![Photo of Bobbi K O'Brien, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aab0d226-d2ea-4adc-a631-b82be3bb0d39/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bobbi K O'Brien
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Not accepting new clients
Beginning therapy can be intimidating, and I provide a comfortable, safe place to begin the process of self discovery and growth. I consider therapy to be a tool for finding and overcoming obstacles to a fulfilling life. I have worked in mental health for over 20 years, and I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults with eating disorders, grief and loss, depression, life dissatisfaction, and relationship issues. I believe emotional well being is just as important as physical health, and psychotherapy can be an effective way to feel healthier and more satisfied with your life.
Beginning therapy can be intimidating, and I provide a comfortable, safe place to begin the process of self discovery and growth. I consider therapy to be a tool for finding and overcoming obstacles to a fulfilling life. I have worked in mental health for over 20 years, and I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults with eating disorders, grief and loss, depression, life dissatisfaction, and relationship issues. I believe emotional well being is just as important as physical health, and psychotherapy can be an effective way to feel healthier and more satisfied with your life.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Julie Payne, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40879023-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Payne
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274
I specialize in treating trauma and individuals diagnosed with a chronic illness.
Thank you for taking the time to consider me for your therapy needs. Whether you are experiencing a difficult time in your life, a life change, or would like more insight and personal growth; I am here to help you. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that you are happy with. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Through psychotherapy, you can learn to improve the way those challenges you have impacted your life.
I specialize in treating trauma and individuals diagnosed with a chronic illness.
Thank you for taking the time to consider me for your therapy needs. Whether you are experiencing a difficult time in your life, a life change, or would like more insight and personal growth; I am here to help you. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that you are happy with. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Through psychotherapy, you can learn to improve the way those challenges you have impacted your life.
See more therapy options for Palos Verdes Estates
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Palos Verdes Estates
- Carson
- Gardena
- Hawthorne
- Hermosa Beach
- Lawndale
- Manhattan Beach
- Palos Verdes Peninsula
- Rancho Palos Verdes
- Redondo Beach
- Rolling Hills Estates
- San Pedro
- Torrance
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.