Photo of Rachael Montgomery - MindShift Psychological Services, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
MindShift Psychological Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92503
We all experience anxiety, depression and interpersonal stress at one time or another. Often, we are able to cope with these experiences on our own or with help from our loved ones. When our pain persists despite our best efforts, we turn to someone with training and experience for help. Research and tradition teach us that sharing our painful experiences within the context of a supportive and focused therapeutic relationship can help us cope with and even overcome our emotional pain. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I have dedicated my academic and professional activities to helping others get better.
We all experience anxiety, depression and interpersonal stress at one time or another. Often, we are able to cope with these experiences on our own or with help from our loved ones. When our pain persists despite our best efforts, we turn to someone with training and experience for help. Research and tradition teach us that sharing our painful experiences within the context of a supportive and focused therapeutic relationship can help us cope with and even overcome our emotional pain. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I have dedicated my academic and professional activities to helping others get better.
(657) 220-8478 View (657) 220-8478
Photo of Martha Wethey - Spring To Autumn Family Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Spring To Autumn Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92505
Need support to tackle some of life's difficulties? It is ok to ask for help sometimes. Many of the individuals and families who contact us are all looking for the same tools: learning to cope and reduce stress, overcoming trauma, and finding peace of mind. We help tackle everyday issues with an evidenced based behavioral approach. We help with marital/premarital counseling, individuals with depression, anxiety, or mood issues, children and teenage struggles and much more. We are ready to help with providing support and making positive changes. We are a group practice with many therapist options to choose from.
Need support to tackle some of life's difficulties? It is ok to ask for help sometimes. Many of the individuals and families who contact us are all looking for the same tools: learning to cope and reduce stress, overcoming trauma, and finding peace of mind. We help tackle everyday issues with an evidenced based behavioral approach. We help with marital/premarital counseling, individuals with depression, anxiety, or mood issues, children and teenage struggles and much more. We are ready to help with providing support and making positive changes. We are a group practice with many therapist options to choose from.
(909) 557-6574 View (909) 557-6574

Online Therapists

Photo of Amy Amelia Hardwick, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Amy Amelia Hardwick
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Valley Center, CA 92082  (Online Only)
I have a particular interest in serious/chronic illness, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and addiction treatment.
I work with clients online video with telemedicine HIPPA compliant. I maintain a very successful practice of holistic psychology that addresses the client at all levels; Mental, Emotional, Physical & Spiritual, facilitating healing at the level of causation, not just management and treatment of symptoms. I sought out the most innovative treatments so my clients feel better as soon as possible and can be out-living their lives. I work very well with adolescents and individuals of all ages. I have extensive clinical experience that covers a wide range of problems.
I have a particular interest in serious/chronic illness, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and addiction treatment.
I work with clients online video with telemedicine HIPPA compliant. I maintain a very successful practice of holistic psychology that addresses the client at all levels; Mental, Emotional, Physical & Spiritual, facilitating healing at the level of causation, not just management and treatment of symptoms. I sought out the most innovative treatments so my clients feel better as soon as possible and can be out-living their lives. I work very well with adolescents and individuals of all ages. I have extensive clinical experience that covers a wide range of problems.
(714) 702-5933 View (714) 702-5933
Photo of Samira Vafadar, PsyD, Psychologist
Samira Vafadar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
My training includes children, teenagers, adults, elderly, couples in the areas of chronic pain, addictions, depression, anxiety & cultural/ethnic.
Would you like a full assessment including psychological testing? Perhaps for ADHD? Is stress or anxiety impacting your sleep, work, health & your relationships? Perhaps you're wondering if it's ever going to get better. You may fear that you are "going crazy." You've tried to do it on your own with different coping skills but it does not seem to work. You are not alone! Anxiety and depression is a brain disease and it is quite common, but there is hope! There are many successful and evidence-based ways I can help you experience a sense of peace and get back to doing the things you want to do!
My training includes children, teenagers, adults, elderly, couples in the areas of chronic pain, addictions, depression, anxiety & cultural/ethnic.
Would you like a full assessment including psychological testing? Perhaps for ADHD? Is stress or anxiety impacting your sleep, work, health & your relationships? Perhaps you're wondering if it's ever going to get better. You may fear that you are "going crazy." You've tried to do it on your own with different coping skills but it does not seem to work. You are not alone! Anxiety and depression is a brain disease and it is quite common, but there is hope! There are many successful and evidence-based ways I can help you experience a sense of peace and get back to doing the things you want to do!
(949) 835-4916 View (949) 835-4916
Photo of Dr. Cassidy Blair, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Cassidy Blair
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
(424) 888-6124 View (424) 888-6124
Photo of Sam Hopper, PhD, Psychologist
Sam Hopper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
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.
(424) 252-3280 View (424) 252-3280
Photo of Annie Nardella - Pacific Therapy Group, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pacific Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Pacific Pain & Wellness Group treats mental health and pain conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Our mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, we construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Pacific Pain & Wellness Group treats mental health and pain conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Our mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, we construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
(310) 868-2264 View (310) 868-2264
Photo of Amy Austin, RN, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Austin
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Quinta, CA 92253
In your therapy," I WON'T JUST SIT AND NOD." I'll be an active participant in your therapy. I specialize in individual, couple, family and addiction therapy from anxiety, depression to relationship challenges. I can help with a blend of warmth, compassion, guidance utilizing workable tools in a safe therapeutic milieu. I'll support you to identify, explore, and work through those scary, but telling truths. Your truths! Not thoughts and behaviors that you've lived that keep you emotionally stuck, tied to your history, and in pain! Let's work to leave behind patterns of dis-ease, discovering an empowered, real and wonderful YOU!
In your therapy," I WON'T JUST SIT AND NOD." I'll be an active participant in your therapy. I specialize in individual, couple, family and addiction therapy from anxiety, depression to relationship challenges. I can help with a blend of warmth, compassion, guidance utilizing workable tools in a safe therapeutic milieu. I'll support you to identify, explore, and work through those scary, but telling truths. Your truths! Not thoughts and behaviors that you've lived that keep you emotionally stuck, tied to your history, and in pain! Let's work to leave behind patterns of dis-ease, discovering an empowered, real and wonderful YOU!
(760) 978-6992 View (760) 978-6992
Photo of Briana Barrera, Pre-Licensed Professional
Briana Barrera
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
(310) 807-2734 View (310) 807-2734
Photo of Jeremy Harvey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeremy Harvey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
A main focus of my therapy is joining clients in what they are going through. Therapeutic workbooks are great, but there is a big difference between opening up to a workbook versus opening up to a human being. When we open up to another person we make ourselves vulnerable. That is when true growth begins. I set out to try and help people deal with the core issues, as well as enhance their core strengths. When there is a recovery in the core, the symptoms can be dealt with. Our problematic situations and behaviors are but a symptom. Website: jeremyharveymftcom
A main focus of my therapy is joining clients in what they are going through. Therapeutic workbooks are great, but there is a big difference between opening up to a workbook versus opening up to a human being. When we open up to another person we make ourselves vulnerable. That is when true growth begins. I set out to try and help people deal with the core issues, as well as enhance their core strengths. When there is a recovery in the core, the symptoms can be dealt with. Our problematic situations and behaviors are but a symptom. Website: jeremyharveymftcom
(949) 647-4233 View (949) 647-4233
Photo of David Ibrahim, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
David Ibrahim
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92606
Do you wonder if you’re an addict, maybe not? I provide assessments and interventions for addiction. I’ve worked with famous actors, directors, major league athletes, scholars, scientists, studio executives, engineers, Hip Hop moguls and successful individuals. I specialize in trauma and addiction. I deal with issues such as controlled drinking, sobriety, relationship, couple's or family issues, Court, incest survivor trauma, and addiction issues. I'm also a LMFT, and Yoga and Meditation Therapist and EMDR Therapist which gives me a unique ability to help my patients integrate in their bodies emotionally and mentally.
Do you wonder if you’re an addict, maybe not? I provide assessments and interventions for addiction. I’ve worked with famous actors, directors, major league athletes, scholars, scientists, studio executives, engineers, Hip Hop moguls and successful individuals. I specialize in trauma and addiction. I deal with issues such as controlled drinking, sobriety, relationship, couple's or family issues, Court, incest survivor trauma, and addiction issues. I'm also a LMFT, and Yoga and Meditation Therapist and EMDR Therapist which gives me a unique ability to help my patients integrate in their bodies emotionally and mentally.
(323) 531-5725 View (323) 531-5725
Photo of James Wood, PhD, LMFT, DAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
James Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, DAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
When I begin a session with a new client, I want to present myself as a real person. I want to create a situation where the client feels comfortable being him/herself and communicating whatever is going on. I will observe closely, being as present as possible. I will listen carefully and respond when appropriate. I may ask questions or make interpretations about what we talk about, but most importantly I want the client to feel free to say whatever is on his/her mind. I want to establish a trusting relationship so we can begin to work on this person’s issues.
When I begin a session with a new client, I want to present myself as a real person. I want to create a situation where the client feels comfortable being him/herself and communicating whatever is going on. I will observe closely, being as present as possible. I will listen carefully and respond when appropriate. I may ask questions or make interpretations about what we talk about, but most importantly I want the client to feel free to say whatever is on his/her mind. I want to establish a trusting relationship so we can begin to work on this person’s issues.
(424) 236-6209 View (424) 236-6209
Photo of Michelle Conover - Southern California Neuropsychology Group, PhD, Psychologist
Southern California Neuropsychology Group
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Neuro-Psychotherapy: This unique therapeutic modality combines psychotherapy with a brain and behavior perspective. The integrative format helps you better understand your brain patterns in relationship to your behavior and emotional output. This information will help you to permanently correct the negative feeling or behavior, allowing you to establish positive patterns instead. We offer individual, family and couples therapy to children, adolescents and adults with the following problems or difficulties: sadness/depression, mood swings, anxiety (panic attacks), social phobia, poor social skills, OCD, substance abuse (relapse prevention), video game/internet/pornography addiction, gambling, eating disorders, sleep difficulties, impulsivity, anger problems, relationship issues, trauma/abuse, PTSD.
Neuro-Psychotherapy: This unique therapeutic modality combines psychotherapy with a brain and behavior perspective. The integrative format helps you better understand your brain patterns in relationship to your behavior and emotional output. This information will help you to permanently correct the negative feeling or behavior, allowing you to establish positive patterns instead. We offer individual, family and couples therapy to children, adolescents and adults with the following problems or difficulties: sadness/depression, mood swings, anxiety (panic attacks), social phobia, poor social skills, OCD, substance abuse (relapse prevention), video game/internet/pornography addiction, gambling, eating disorders, sleep difficulties, impulsivity, anger problems, relationship issues, trauma/abuse, PTSD.
(747) 236-6291 View (747) 236-6291
Photo of Paul Kramer - Remarkable Services, EdD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Remarkable Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
(925) 436-1725 View (925) 436-1725
Photo of Sean O'Hara, PsyD, NCAC, I, SAP, Psychologist
Sean O'Hara
Psychologist, PsyD, NCAC, I, SAP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
Sean O'Hara Psy.D, NCAC I, SAP is a State of California and State of Hawai'i Board Licensed Psychologist in San Diego, California and Kahului, Hawai'i, with 36 years experience with psychiatric, mental health, dual-diagnosis and crises intervention health problems. Dr. O'Hara works in Rancho Bernardo and does tele heath sessions. Dr. O'Hara travels the United States to work with clients, corporations and athletes residing in other states. Dr. O'Hara works with all populations and does diversified work with corporations, collegiate and professional sports teams, the entertainment industries and concert tours.
Sean O'Hara Psy.D, NCAC I, SAP is a State of California and State of Hawai'i Board Licensed Psychologist in San Diego, California and Kahului, Hawai'i, with 36 years experience with psychiatric, mental health, dual-diagnosis and crises intervention health problems. Dr. O'Hara works in Rancho Bernardo and does tele heath sessions. Dr. O'Hara travels the United States to work with clients, corporations and athletes residing in other states. Dr. O'Hara works with all populations and does diversified work with corporations, collegiate and professional sports teams, the entertainment industries and concert tours.
(619) 567-5255 View (619) 567-5255
Photo of Afrouz Shaye - A. Shaye, Ph.D., MA, PhD, Psychologist
A. Shaye, Ph.D.
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Do you feel anxious? Overwhelmed? Sad? Are you struggling with a relationship issue or work stress? Dr. Shaye works in a therapy model to ensure that you see your feelings and situations change quickly, as you gain insight into your past and present to create a better future. Dr. Shaye provides a type of therapy that quickly promotes healthy relationships, decreases anxiety, and soothes depression. The office is beautiful and private to ensure client's are comfortable.
Do you feel anxious? Overwhelmed? Sad? Are you struggling with a relationship issue or work stress? Dr. Shaye works in a therapy model to ensure that you see your feelings and situations change quickly, as you gain insight into your past and present to create a better future. Dr. Shaye provides a type of therapy that quickly promotes healthy relationships, decreases anxiety, and soothes depression. The office is beautiful and private to ensure client's are comfortable.
(310) 736-2810 View (310) 736-2810
Photo of Julia Young - Caring Connected, AMFT, APCC, LMFT, LPCC, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caring Connected
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, APCC, LMFT, LPCC, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
Are you feeling disconnected, stressed, stuck, scared, or angry? Are you repeating relationships, patterns, or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life feels more frustrating or stressful than usual. Sometimes we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we know we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even if we know what the issue is, change can feel impossible. That's where our team of qualified professionals can help. Our job isn't to judge you or your choices, it's to help you understand the root causes of your issues and work together to create a custom plan for change.
Are you feeling disconnected, stressed, stuck, scared, or angry? Are you repeating relationships, patterns, or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life feels more frustrating or stressful than usual. Sometimes we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we know we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even if we know what the issue is, change can feel impossible. That's where our team of qualified professionals can help. Our job isn't to judge you or your choices, it's to help you understand the root causes of your issues and work together to create a custom plan for change.
(707) 317-6092 View (707) 317-6092
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, PhD, NCC, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPCC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90017
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(562) 685-9636 View (562) 685-9636
Photo of David Ibrahim, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(805) 420-7531 View (805) 420-7531
Photo of Annette Conway - Help Therapy | Mental Health Services, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT, NP, PNP, Psychologist
Help Therapy | Mental Health Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT, NP, PNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
Help Therapy boasts a network of more than 150 licensed clinical psychologists, LCSWs, LMFTs, and NPs, spanning over 100 specialties and treatment areas. Services we provide including psychotherapy, psychological evaluations and psychiatric services. By completing an intake form on HelpTherapy.com, you'll be paired with a therapist tailored to your specific treatment requirements, insurance coverage, and location preferences. You have the flexibility to choose how you'd like to connect with your provider—whether in-person, online, or via phone.
Help Therapy boasts a network of more than 150 licensed clinical psychologists, LCSWs, LMFTs, and NPs, spanning over 100 specialties and treatment areas. Services we provide including psychotherapy, psychological evaluations and psychiatric services. By completing an intake form on HelpTherapy.com, you'll be paired with a therapist tailored to your specific treatment requirements, insurance coverage, and location preferences. You have the flexibility to choose how you'd like to connect with your provider—whether in-person, online, or via phone.
(858) 800-4095 View (858) 800-4095
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.