Chronic Pain Therapists in Playa Del Rey, CA
![Photo of Ann O'Brien, LCSW, MSc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2dfee33-4eb8-4f70-a847-f56829a44e46/2/320x400.jpeg)
My clients are lovely people going through difficult things. Whether you are going through a break-up, loss, life transition or adjusting to the post-pandemic world, it can be a struggle to find your footing on your own. I have found that, in order to move forward with an empowered and clear mind, it is helpful to integrate the recent past into an evolving narrative that feels right for you. I offer a kind, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and find tools to quiet the noise, develop new perspectives and connect to your unique voice and path to self-fulfillment.
My clients are lovely people going through difficult things. Whether you are going through a break-up, loss, life transition or adjusting to the post-pandemic world, it can be a struggle to find your footing on your own. I have found that, in order to move forward with an empowered and clear mind, it is helpful to integrate the recent past into an evolving narrative that feels right for you. I offer a kind, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and find tools to quiet the noise, develop new perspectives and connect to your unique voice and path to self-fulfillment.
![Photo of Kayna Ambroz Cassard, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b2d0805-5386-4c57-a46c-ae4806955b8f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kayna Ambroz Cassard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293 (Online Only)
Intimacy & sex shouldn't be a burden. But when you look at your calendar and see "Date Night" deep down, you struggle with the conflicting feelings coming up. Yes, the ambiance will be beautiful. And you’re sure the meal will be lovely. And you’ll have a great time talking and laughing with your partner. But the entire time, you’ll dread the end of the night when you get into bed and you’re expected to have sex. You know sex is supposed to be an exciting, enjoyable thing, but for you, it’s anything but. Even sex scenes in movies make you uncomfortable. You feel guilty and inadequate as a partner. If only you had answers.
Intimacy & sex shouldn't be a burden. But when you look at your calendar and see "Date Night" deep down, you struggle with the conflicting feelings coming up. Yes, the ambiance will be beautiful. And you’re sure the meal will be lovely. And you’ll have a great time talking and laughing with your partner. But the entire time, you’ll dread the end of the night when you get into bed and you’re expected to have sex. You know sex is supposed to be an exciting, enjoyable thing, but for you, it’s anything but. Even sex scenes in movies make you uncomfortable. You feel guilty and inadequate as a partner. If only you had answers.
![Photo of Susan Kaufman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ba17a49-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Kaufman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293 (Online Only)
In addition to providing parenting support, I work with individuals encountering a variety of life challenges such as anxiety, relational issues, work stress, loneliness and depression. I also work with couples looking to repair ruptures, rekindle connection, improve communication and/or work on parenting issues. I have a background in meditation and mindfulness. It informs my practice and I often use it as modality to assist clients whether working with anxiety or parenting or other relational issues.
In addition to providing parenting support, I work with individuals encountering a variety of life challenges such as anxiety, relational issues, work stress, loneliness and depression. I also work with couples looking to repair ruptures, rekindle connection, improve communication and/or work on parenting issues. I have a background in meditation and mindfulness. It informs my practice and I often use it as modality to assist clients whether working with anxiety or parenting or other relational issues.
![Photo of Natasha Mehta, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc512c9-9395-4daa-9082-f2effed5712c/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with nearly a decade of experience in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, and depression. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore and understand your struggles and to help you obtain the tools to be more effective in achieving the life you want. In addition to private practice, I have worked as the Team Lead on the women’s unit of a mental health residential rehabilitation treatment program and currently work in a medical center’s outpatient mental health clinic, where I provide psychotherapy and supervise trainees.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with nearly a decade of experience in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, and depression. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore and understand your struggles and to help you obtain the tools to be more effective in achieving the life you want. In addition to private practice, I have worked as the Team Lead on the women’s unit of a mental health residential rehabilitation treatment program and currently work in a medical center’s outpatient mental health clinic, where I provide psychotherapy and supervise trainees.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Jessica Oifer Stelle, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2ff6402-c896-4184-b393-ce07d5efdb3d/5/320x400.png)
Jessica Oifer Stelle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
I work with individuals to address a variety of issues, including chronic pain, trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship challenges, and life transitions.
Are you struggling with ongoing stress, a past trauma or a life challenge that has left you feeling overwhelmed and depleted? Has fear, sadness or chronic pain made it difficult to keep up with day-to-day life? It's not unusual to experience periods of time when life's challenges feel too overwhelming or too painful to navigate on your own. I help clients identify, explore and address the sources of their pain. I work with them to identify and resolve past issues, break patterns, and develop the personal awareness and emotional strength they need to reach their goals.
I work with individuals to address a variety of issues, including chronic pain, trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship challenges, and life transitions.
Are you struggling with ongoing stress, a past trauma or a life challenge that has left you feeling overwhelmed and depleted? Has fear, sadness or chronic pain made it difficult to keep up with day-to-day life? It's not unusual to experience periods of time when life's challenges feel too overwhelming or too painful to navigate on your own. I help clients identify, explore and address the sources of their pain. I work with them to identify and resolve past issues, break patterns, and develop the personal awareness and emotional strength they need to reach their goals.
![Photo of Bayla G. Travis - Bayla Travis, Psy.D. - Pain Management Specialist, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6799fe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bayla Travis, Psy.D. - Pain Management Specialist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
Using interventions like mindfulness, relaxation, behavior modification, thought substitution and education about the science of pain, I can help you decrease your symptoms and better care for yourself when symptoms do arise.
I work with individuals who have achieved success in many areas of their lives, yet struggle with chronic health issues that cause great levels of stress. For over a decade, I have helped people who have health challenges like headaches, back and neck pain, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s Disease. Often, these uncomfortable physical sensations lead to anxiety. And then the anxiety leads to an increase in physical symptoms. Which then leads to even greater levels of anxiety. I can help you interrupt this cycle, leading to you enjoying increased quality of life both personally and professionally.
Using interventions like mindfulness, relaxation, behavior modification, thought substitution and education about the science of pain, I can help you decrease your symptoms and better care for yourself when symptoms do arise.
I work with individuals who have achieved success in many areas of their lives, yet struggle with chronic health issues that cause great levels of stress. For over a decade, I have helped people who have health challenges like headaches, back and neck pain, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s Disease. Often, these uncomfortable physical sensations lead to anxiety. And then the anxiety leads to an increase in physical symptoms. Which then leads to even greater levels of anxiety. I can help you interrupt this cycle, leading to you enjoying increased quality of life both personally and professionally.
![Photo of Casey Taslitz Birnbaum Certified Emdr Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bce7307f-f076-4438-afd4-71f717b8d06b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Casey Taslitz Birnbaum Certified Emdr Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
Hi, I am Casey! I would love to help you lead a more connected, meaningful and fulfilled life. I know looking for a therapist can be overwhelming and exhausting during a time where you may be feeling like you need additional support. While working with clients, I provide warmth and containment as they learn to heal from trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, phase of life issues or whatever may bring them into my office.
Hi, I am Casey! I would love to help you lead a more connected, meaningful and fulfilled life. I know looking for a therapist can be overwhelming and exhausting during a time where you may be feeling like you need additional support. While working with clients, I provide warmth and containment as they learn to heal from trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, phase of life issues or whatever may bring them into my office.
![Photo of Savannah M Fine, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20799204-2948-48ec-96a8-ba53b9732a07/2/320x400.jpeg)
Savannah M Fine
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292 (Online Only)
My specialities include: Sex/Sexuality, Intimacy, Relationships, Chronic Pain/Chronic Illness, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Grief/Loss.
Hello! My name is Savannah M. Fine and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 139871 and a Certified Sex Therapist supporting human beings in the state of California. I am polyam, ENM, kink and LGBTQ+ affirming, and I work with individuals, partners, and families who are looking to form a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and their communities. I understand that healing and growth looks different for each individual and hope to provide the support necessary for your mind, body, and soul.
My specialities include: Sex/Sexuality, Intimacy, Relationships, Chronic Pain/Chronic Illness, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Grief/Loss.
Hello! My name is Savannah M. Fine and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 139871 and a Certified Sex Therapist supporting human beings in the state of California. I am polyam, ENM, kink and LGBTQ+ affirming, and I work with individuals, partners, and families who are looking to form a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and their communities. I understand that healing and growth looks different for each individual and hope to provide the support necessary for your mind, body, and soul.
![Photo of Chelsea Allyn Moyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc32c0fd-b975-4702-9916-763226e4cb47/1/320x400.png)
I deeply believe in the healing process and an individual's innate capacity for transformation. With over a decade of experience working as a clinical therapist, I believe it's not about working harder but working smarter. Our primary goal is to identify the blocks (namely old patterns/habits, limiting beliefs, patterns of avoidance, etc.) that interfere with your brain and body's natural state of well-being. This can show up as addictions, chronic pain, anxiety, or depression. Whatever you're struggling with right now, your system desires its natural state of equilibrium and will guide us towards healing.
I deeply believe in the healing process and an individual's innate capacity for transformation. With over a decade of experience working as a clinical therapist, I believe it's not about working harder but working smarter. Our primary goal is to identify the blocks (namely old patterns/habits, limiting beliefs, patterns of avoidance, etc.) that interfere with your brain and body's natural state of well-being. This can show up as addictions, chronic pain, anxiety, or depression. Whatever you're struggling with right now, your system desires its natural state of equilibrium and will guide us towards healing.
![Photo of Erica Walker, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/892a58f9-077b-42f0-a449-04a461fd7999/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erica Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066 (Online Only)
If you are struggling with chronic pain, I empathize with your frustration, anxiety and despair. I specialize in working with clients who are challenged by chronic pain, anxiety and trauma. Oftentimes, these three are closely related.
If you are struggling with chronic pain, I empathize with your frustration, anxiety and despair. I specialize in working with clients who are challenged by chronic pain, anxiety and trauma. Oftentimes, these three are closely related.
![Photo of Kendra Andersson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3f09a1e-7921-409a-8aaa-f7026c6e9f51/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kendra Andersson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066 (Online Only)
Due to my own struggle and remission with Chronic Pain and Acquired Disability, I find it rewarding to work with other individuals with these struggles as well.
My name is Kendra, and I have a very informal approach to therapy. I enjoy laughing and commiserating with my clients and believe that they are best supported by a nonjudgmental therapist who truly cares about their well-being. I work from a strengths-based approach, and as a university professor, I love to connect science and research to help understand everyday issues. I hope to cultivate a space in which people can be their authentic selves and feel safe and supported as they do so.
Due to my own struggle and remission with Chronic Pain and Acquired Disability, I find it rewarding to work with other individuals with these struggles as well.
My name is Kendra, and I have a very informal approach to therapy. I enjoy laughing and commiserating with my clients and believe that they are best supported by a nonjudgmental therapist who truly cares about their well-being. I work from a strengths-based approach, and as a university professor, I love to connect science and research to help understand everyday issues. I hope to cultivate a space in which people can be their authentic selves and feel safe and supported as they do so.
![Photo of Kimberly Gibson, LPCC, ATR, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d58e540-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My specialities include: anxiety, mood disorders, thought disorders, ADHD, maternal mental health, chronic pain & illnesses.
Currently have daytime availability- Are you tired and stressed out from just how hard this past year has been? Do you find yourself getting hooked by negative thoughts? Or caught in an unhelpful pattern? Through a kind, creative and collaborative process, we can work together to challenge negative thoughts, make space for all feelings and identify behaviors or patterns that are keeping you stuck. We can work together to make positive changes. I enjoy working with middle schoolers, teens and adults and have over 20 years of clinical experience. I would be happy to help you or your loved one meet their goals.
My specialities include: anxiety, mood disorders, thought disorders, ADHD, maternal mental health, chronic pain & illnesses.
Currently have daytime availability- Are you tired and stressed out from just how hard this past year has been? Do you find yourself getting hooked by negative thoughts? Or caught in an unhelpful pattern? Through a kind, creative and collaborative process, we can work together to challenge negative thoughts, make space for all feelings and identify behaviors or patterns that are keeping you stuck. We can work together to make positive changes. I enjoy working with middle schoolers, teens and adults and have over 20 years of clinical experience. I would be happy to help you or your loved one meet their goals.
![Photo of Sam Hopper, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c15b9db2-32ae-4ec6-9261-bb9003d02853/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is aware that some primary positive feeling has changed. The positive feeling has suddenly, or over time, become negative and painful. Because of this change, he or she may have reluctantly given up on a long term goal, or may be in the midsts of a divorce where there was once loving contentment that has disappeared. Sometimes the pain is so severe that the Client considers ending his or her life. No matter what the circumstance, this Client is longing for relief from the pain. The Client needs a Therapist who can, incrementally over time, help to alleviate the pain and begin a more positive approach to living life.
My ideal client is aware that some primary positive feeling has changed. The positive feeling has suddenly, or over time, become negative and painful. Because of this change, he or she may have reluctantly given up on a long term goal, or may be in the midsts of a divorce where there was once loving contentment that has disappeared. Sometimes the pain is so severe that the Client considers ending his or her life. No matter what the circumstance, this Client is longing for relief from the pain. The Client needs a Therapist who can, incrementally over time, help to alleviate the pain and begin a more positive approach to living life.
![Photo of John Sahakian, CHT, CBTP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e378001-e05a-4b0f-9d51-6e70c0b8383a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Depending on your needs, I will help you release anxiety and better manage stress so you can stop smoking, drinking, lose weight, improve communication skills, lower blood pressure, improve study habits, manage pain, fly again, sleep again, be creative, peaceful, motivated, trust, and most of all be happy.
Right now you may be in need and suffering? The body has a deep intelligence and sometimes our attention is required to feel well again. Take a moment to notice that you're breathing. When you're ready take two or three long deep breaths. You have more control than you think.
Depending on your needs, I will help you release anxiety and better manage stress so you can stop smoking, drinking, lose weight, improve communication skills, lower blood pressure, improve study habits, manage pain, fly again, sleep again, be creative, peaceful, motivated, trust, and most of all be happy.
Right now you may be in need and suffering? The body has a deep intelligence and sometimes our attention is required to feel well again. Take a moment to notice that you're breathing. When you're ready take two or three long deep breaths. You have more control than you think.
![Photo of Kenneth M. Sabel, PsyD , SEP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50b1969a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I understand the importance of needing to feel understood and seen. When therapy is successful, we often will experience a greater sense of spaciousness inside ourselves, freedom from our own judgments, and are reminded that confronting our pain won’t destroy us. The goal is not a short-term fix but instead a long-term shift that brings forth feelings of empowerment, resiliency, and a confidence that our brains and our lives can change. As a consequence of shifting our relationship to ourselves and to our pain, the uncomfortable symptoms often associated with anxiety, trauma, and depression begin to dissolve and loosen their grip.
I understand the importance of needing to feel understood and seen. When therapy is successful, we often will experience a greater sense of spaciousness inside ourselves, freedom from our own judgments, and are reminded that confronting our pain won’t destroy us. The goal is not a short-term fix but instead a long-term shift that brings forth feelings of empowerment, resiliency, and a confidence that our brains and our lives can change. As a consequence of shifting our relationship to ourselves and to our pain, the uncomfortable symptoms often associated with anxiety, trauma, and depression begin to dissolve and loosen their grip.
![Photo of Rebeks L. Clark Mane, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe73aa3d-27a0-486d-92d1-c66ddb0c255e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebeks L. Clark Mane
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066 (Online Only)
I'm a swear-y transmasc therapist with lived experience who specializes in neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD), LGBTQIA+ (that includes ALL the letters), academia, and chronic illness/disability.
Many of my clients are newly identifying their neurodivergence (either through formal or self-diagnosis) and recognizing all the ways they have been swimming upstream their whole lives. My clients may also be discovering that their gender or sexuality is more complicated than they thought, perhaps that they aren't "just queer" but also nonbinary, asexual, or polyamorous. My clients seek therapy because they struggling with their current phase of life, such as settling into life after medical transition, navigating autistic burnout & chronic illnesses, or finding trauma they thought they were past resurfacing in disruptive ways.
I'm a swear-y transmasc therapist with lived experience who specializes in neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD), LGBTQIA+ (that includes ALL the letters), academia, and chronic illness/disability.
Many of my clients are newly identifying their neurodivergence (either through formal or self-diagnosis) and recognizing all the ways they have been swimming upstream their whole lives. My clients may also be discovering that their gender or sexuality is more complicated than they thought, perhaps that they aren't "just queer" but also nonbinary, asexual, or polyamorous. My clients seek therapy because they struggling with their current phase of life, such as settling into life after medical transition, navigating autistic burnout & chronic illnesses, or finding trauma they thought they were past resurfacing in disruptive ways.
![Photo of Mary Nakata, PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c737de6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking this form of treatment for emotional pain, self discovery and personal growth is a treatment modality that is a more in depth exploration and investigation of a person's unique, subjective experiences.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist offering individual, couples and group therapy for 35 years. My private practice is located in Brentwood in West Los Angeles, adjacent to Santa Monica and Beverly Hills, California. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I help people with problems relating to anxiety, depression, relationships, grief and loss, eating disorders, abuse, major life transitions, addiction early life trauma and chronic and life threatening illnesses.
Seeking this form of treatment for emotional pain, self discovery and personal growth is a treatment modality that is a more in depth exploration and investigation of a person's unique, subjective experiences.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist offering individual, couples and group therapy for 35 years. My private practice is located in Brentwood in West Los Angeles, adjacent to Santa Monica and Beverly Hills, California. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I help people with problems relating to anxiety, depression, relationships, grief and loss, eating disorders, abuse, major life transitions, addiction early life trauma and chronic and life threatening illnesses.
![Photo of Lisa Penny, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8476a0a7-d034-4715-ad9b-fbed6b900293/1/320x400.png)
I support families, couples, and individuals. Whatever the problem, challenge, trauma or pain, the power to change exists within you and your family. I believe that an effective therapist's job is to support a "shift," not to create it for you. Together, we can make progress toward your goals and desires. I am also trained and certified in hypnotherapy.
I support families, couples, and individuals. Whatever the problem, challenge, trauma or pain, the power to change exists within you and your family. I believe that an effective therapist's job is to support a "shift," not to create it for you. Together, we can make progress toward your goals and desires. I am also trained and certified in hypnotherapy.
![Photo of Lori Baudino, PsyD, BC-DMT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e873ea-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Please check out my website:drloribaudino.com. I focus on therapeutic support for children & parents. Utilizing a body centered movement approach that is playful, engaging and beneficial. I specialize with children from behavioral, attachment, learning challenges and developmental needs to those with severe medical and physical illness. I support parents on this journey to best communicate, support and find joy in their child/family! I fit approaches to your family needs and preferences. I believe that children are capable and competent and with this support they reach their potential!
Please check out my website:drloribaudino.com. I focus on therapeutic support for children & parents. Utilizing a body centered movement approach that is playful, engaging and beneficial. I specialize with children from behavioral, attachment, learning challenges and developmental needs to those with severe medical and physical illness. I support parents on this journey to best communicate, support and find joy in their child/family! I fit approaches to your family needs and preferences. I believe that children are capable and competent and with this support they reach their potential!
![Photo of Lowell Winer, MA, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a1815bd-1185-4ca7-8f59-5ac5d74fdff8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lowell Winer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
The Mind-body aspect of my work helps clients more fully move through emotional difficulty, develop healthier lifestyle, and address the emotional aspect of health challenges ranging from stress-induced chronic pain to cancer.
I’m a therapist, cancer survivor, and former tech industry executive. My practice focuses on adults, couples, and teens. In working with me, you’ll experience a mix of warmth, depth, challenge, and most of all dedication to the healing and growth you're seeking. My integrative approach balances relational psychodynamic therapy, solution focus, somatics (Mind-body), and mindfulness. Our work together might include demystifying difficult emotions, processing trauma, improving self-esteem, coping with change, strengthening relationships, increasing motivation, or exploring the many layers of health challenges.
The Mind-body aspect of my work helps clients more fully move through emotional difficulty, develop healthier lifestyle, and address the emotional aspect of health challenges ranging from stress-induced chronic pain to cancer.
I’m a therapist, cancer survivor, and former tech industry executive. My practice focuses on adults, couples, and teens. In working with me, you’ll experience a mix of warmth, depth, challenge, and most of all dedication to the healing and growth you're seeking. My integrative approach balances relational psychodynamic therapy, solution focus, somatics (Mind-body), and mindfulness. Our work together might include demystifying difficult emotions, processing trauma, improving self-esteem, coping with change, strengthening relationships, increasing motivation, or exploring the many layers of health challenges.
See more therapy options for Playa Del Rey
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Playa Del Rey
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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.