Therapists in Twain Harte, CA
![Photo of Kathy Di Giacomo, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ea0cf8f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kathy Di Giacomo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Twain Harte, CA 95383
Imagine....Peace in your mind and enjoying a beautiful moment. Do you feel anxious or overwhelmed, trapped, afraid, stuck, sad, or depressed? Get relief. After a couple of visits, you will feel hope & empowerment. Come feel how wonderful freedom feels in a safe, confidential, non-judgmental environment. Utilizing "play therapy" and art classes to help children & adults. Empathy & understanding changes your perspective & brings Powerful results. You are unique & created for happiness & success. Be courageous today, change your life! Unlimited relationship Confidence Coaching With Kathy Call now! 209.536.4296
Imagine....Peace in your mind and enjoying a beautiful moment. Do you feel anxious or overwhelmed, trapped, afraid, stuck, sad, or depressed? Get relief. After a couple of visits, you will feel hope & empowerment. Come feel how wonderful freedom feels in a safe, confidential, non-judgmental environment. Utilizing "play therapy" and art classes to help children & adults. Empathy & understanding changes your perspective & brings Powerful results. You are unique & created for happiness & success. Be courageous today, change your life! Unlimited relationship Confidence Coaching With Kathy Call now! 209.536.4296
Online Therapists
![Photo of Carol A Dela Torre, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/396f6289-163f-472c-9853-a2f613bb1667/1/320x400.jpeg)
I treat depression, anxiety, chronic mental illness, personality disorders, chronic illness, end of life issues, LGBTQ, sexual addictions, immigration, adolescents, internet addiction, men, multi-cultural clients and survivors of sexual abuse.
Thank you for taking a moment to view my profile. I am currently accepting new clients and I will return all calls promptly. I offer a grounded and authentic approach to therapy. I'm a therapist that supports and engages you instead of sitting back analzying you. My specialities include over 25 years working with couples, child and adult survivors of sexual trauma, domestic violence, adolescents, young adults and parenting teens and all issues around adoption and foster care. I have experience working with individuals who have problems with pornography addiction, sexual addiction and Alpha Males. I work with PTSD and trauma from the military. .
I treat depression, anxiety, chronic mental illness, personality disorders, chronic illness, end of life issues, LGBTQ, sexual addictions, immigration, adolescents, internet addiction, men, multi-cultural clients and survivors of sexual abuse.
Thank you for taking a moment to view my profile. I am currently accepting new clients and I will return all calls promptly. I offer a grounded and authentic approach to therapy. I'm a therapist that supports and engages you instead of sitting back analzying you. My specialities include over 25 years working with couples, child and adult survivors of sexual trauma, domestic violence, adolescents, young adults and parenting teens and all issues around adoption and foster care. I have experience working with individuals who have problems with pornography addiction, sexual addiction and Alpha Males. I work with PTSD and trauma from the military. .
![Photo of Shawna Cobabe - Shawna Cobabe, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3caf328e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shawna Cobabe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 (Online Only)
I have worked with children, families, individuals and couples in many different capacities before finding my calling as a therapist. I have specialized training in couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, PTSD/trauma, adoption and foster care, anxiety and depression, and other mental illness, life changes, grief and loss. I also work with adolescents who are struggling in school or with behavior problems, defiance, and depression and anxiety. I work with couples and families for a variety of reasons. I can help you too.
I have worked with children, families, individuals and couples in many different capacities before finding my calling as a therapist. I have specialized training in couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, PTSD/trauma, adoption and foster care, anxiety and depression, and other mental illness, life changes, grief and loss. I also work with adolescents who are struggling in school or with behavior problems, defiance, and depression and anxiety. I work with couples and families for a variety of reasons. I can help you too.
![Photo of Catherine Cohen, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c0a9038-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
In my practice, I blend a warm, compassionate and respectful approach along with solid science and practical experience. Clients find that the simple act of talking in therapy provides a wealth of information which in turn brings decisions about what to do. My special areas of focus Include work with abuse and trauma survivors, relationship and intimacy issues, work concerns, culture and identity concerns, & chronic illness and health. I welcome adults and adolescents to my practice, and offer individual, couples and family therapy.
In my practice, I blend a warm, compassionate and respectful approach along with solid science and practical experience. Clients find that the simple act of talking in therapy provides a wealth of information which in turn brings decisions about what to do. My special areas of focus Include work with abuse and trauma survivors, relationship and intimacy issues, work concerns, culture and identity concerns, & chronic illness and health. I welcome adults and adolescents to my practice, and offer individual, couples and family therapy.
![Photo of Taylor Baldwin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51ce7386-ca93-4efd-9937-8c420ee99a0d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Baldwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Davis, CA 95616 (Online Only)
Therapy can be a powerful tool in deepening relationships, moving through pain, tolerating discomfort, and understanding the unknown! My therapeutic work is rooted in guiding clients to realize their own potential. I develop an empathic, therapeutic relationship with my clients to generate self-directed change. By meeting you where you are at, and helping you see parts of yourself that may feel inaccessible, we can move toward you living life the way you want to.
Therapy can be a powerful tool in deepening relationships, moving through pain, tolerating discomfort, and understanding the unknown! My therapeutic work is rooted in guiding clients to realize their own potential. I develop an empathic, therapeutic relationship with my clients to generate self-directed change. By meeting you where you are at, and helping you see parts of yourself that may feel inaccessible, we can move toward you living life the way you want to.
![Photo of Vilma Sylvester, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e26652c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
You may experience emotional pain at times, as we all do. You may even have deeper emotional wounds that still need healing, but you don't have to endure unhappiness. YOU DON'T HAVE TO SUFFER. Let's work together to bring the joy back. True, life can get really tough. But psychology research tells us that you can improve emotional well-being and obtain the resilience you need to deal with the tough times, often regardless of challenging life circumstances. By using your strengths, increasing relational connection, positive experiences and engagement with what you value most you can find satisfaction and meaning in life.
You may experience emotional pain at times, as we all do. You may even have deeper emotional wounds that still need healing, but you don't have to endure unhappiness. YOU DON'T HAVE TO SUFFER. Let's work together to bring the joy back. True, life can get really tough. But psychology research tells us that you can improve emotional well-being and obtain the resilience you need to deal with the tough times, often regardless of challenging life circumstances. By using your strengths, increasing relational connection, positive experiences and engagement with what you value most you can find satisfaction and meaning in life.
![Photo of Lindsey Stewart, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/323bc532-a34a-42dd-91bd-35d95a9d546f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Roseville, CA 95661 (Online Only)
I work with: depression, trauma, CPTSD, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, chronic pain/illness, birth trauma, crime survivors, high conflict divorce, domestic violence, betrayal trauma, life transitions, sexual abuse, child loss & grief, therapists/medical providers, first responders.
Do you feel overwhelmed by the pain & confusion of a relationship that should have brought you joy? Maybe you've endured the trauma of a crime, the gaslighting of narcissistic abuse, or the deep wounds of betrayal. Maybe you are struggling with divorce or memories of childhood trauma. Even though anxiety & depression are normal responses to such circumstances, there is still hope that things can be different. Together, we can navigate these turbulent emotions & find a path toward healing, strength, & renewal. Getting help today will allow you to live a life filled with peace & meaningful connections.
I work with: depression, trauma, CPTSD, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, chronic pain/illness, birth trauma, crime survivors, high conflict divorce, domestic violence, betrayal trauma, life transitions, sexual abuse, child loss & grief, therapists/medical providers, first responders.
Do you feel overwhelmed by the pain & confusion of a relationship that should have brought you joy? Maybe you've endured the trauma of a crime, the gaslighting of narcissistic abuse, or the deep wounds of betrayal. Maybe you are struggling with divorce or memories of childhood trauma. Even though anxiety & depression are normal responses to such circumstances, there is still hope that things can be different. Together, we can navigate these turbulent emotions & find a path toward healing, strength, & renewal. Getting help today will allow you to live a life filled with peace & meaningful connections.
![Photo of Dr. Rebecca A Scott, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e17ae8e-5993-41e8-a149-abf87194b178/1/320x400.jpeg)
My experience helping patients in a major group practice, providing them with a mental health perspective on their care, has allowed me to become an expert in rapid assessment and specialize in most forms of mental illness.
When we feel stuck in our situation, it can create feelings of hopelessness. In addition to the many problems that complicate our daily lives such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, patients come to me with complex relationship issues including marital distress, divorce recovery, verbal & emotional abuse, loss of child, parent, or spouse. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective, to address the root problem, not just the symptoms. Like physical therapy, the goal is to get well and end treatment. I offer perspective on your experience, and provide clear, concise directions on meeting your treatment goals.
My experience helping patients in a major group practice, providing them with a mental health perspective on their care, has allowed me to become an expert in rapid assessment and specialize in most forms of mental illness.
When we feel stuck in our situation, it can create feelings of hopelessness. In addition to the many problems that complicate our daily lives such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, patients come to me with complex relationship issues including marital distress, divorce recovery, verbal & emotional abuse, loss of child, parent, or spouse. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective, to address the root problem, not just the symptoms. Like physical therapy, the goal is to get well and end treatment. I offer perspective on your experience, and provide clear, concise directions on meeting your treatment goals.
![Photo of Jordan Boehler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c20d896-dd60-467e-82c4-6dd2ad32b6eb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan Boehler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Livermore, CA 94550
If you could let go of anything, what would it be? I provide short-term, intensive therapy that resolves the cause of your issue. I am a practitioner of Mimetic Therapies. This means I facilitate profound and transformational experiences in the resolution of Trauma/PTSD and Grief/Loss, as well as panic, depression, phobia, and pain for anyone- regardless of background- interested in feeling better. My ideal client is done talking about it, done doing workbooks, done understanding the cause. I connect deeply and directly with the parts of you that have been trying so hard to protect and heal your self and cause them to collaborate.
If you could let go of anything, what would it be? I provide short-term, intensive therapy that resolves the cause of your issue. I am a practitioner of Mimetic Therapies. This means I facilitate profound and transformational experiences in the resolution of Trauma/PTSD and Grief/Loss, as well as panic, depression, phobia, and pain for anyone- regardless of background- interested in feeling better. My ideal client is done talking about it, done doing workbooks, done understanding the cause. I connect deeply and directly with the parts of you that have been trying so hard to protect and heal your self and cause them to collaborate.
![Photo of Linda Lee Sessions, PhD, MAHS, LMFT, MAC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/142f5521-afa2-4c27-a3ff-7068b7679733/3/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Lee Sessions
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MAHS, LMFT, MAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
My approach to therapy is based on integrating theories from a family systems perspective, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, & Attachment Theory. While I enjoy working with all client populations my specialties are LGBTQ issues, relationship issues, chronic illness and pain, terminal illness, grief and loss. I see each client as uniquely special, and deserving of life's best. My goal is to help each client discover who they are meant to be regardless of their experience. I especially like coaching individuals in the corporate setting, helping them to achieve their personal best in the office and at home.
My approach to therapy is based on integrating theories from a family systems perspective, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, & Attachment Theory. While I enjoy working with all client populations my specialties are LGBTQ issues, relationship issues, chronic illness and pain, terminal illness, grief and loss. I see each client as uniquely special, and deserving of life's best. My goal is to help each client discover who they are meant to be regardless of their experience. I especially like coaching individuals in the corporate setting, helping them to achieve their personal best in the office and at home.
![Photo of Gina Vance, CMHT, CCHT, RBT, CLC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/216db5fc-da45-4d3c-b4d5-08e368506943/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you've been journeying into self discovery and growth and are ready for a gentle quantum leap into your unique power, beauty and ability to express and collaborate with your multi-dimensional self, consider the potential rewards of learning to quickly and easily journey into your mind and body to explore, encounter and understand ways you can heal the pain of your despair and serve your highest purpose in fulfilling ways.
Our work together will honor all aspects of you and all experiences you have endured and survived, as you successfully close completed chapters and author new satisfying successes.
If you've been journeying into self discovery and growth and are ready for a gentle quantum leap into your unique power, beauty and ability to express and collaborate with your multi-dimensional self, consider the potential rewards of learning to quickly and easily journey into your mind and body to explore, encounter and understand ways you can heal the pain of your despair and serve your highest purpose in fulfilling ways.
Our work together will honor all aspects of you and all experiences you have endured and survived, as you successfully close completed chapters and author new satisfying successes.
![Photo of Ilana Brosh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10a3c93c-7ff8-416a-a6c2-21a51ba7aeab/1/320x400.jpeg)
It can feel daunting to begin the search for a therapist you feel like you actually connect with. Especially when you are the one used to taking care of others in your life -it takes courage to focus on what YOU need. Perhaps on the outside you might be holding it together but spend your days feeling disconnected, struggling within your relationships or feeling reactive and angry but not able to identify the “why.” Or maybe you are navigating a big change -a diagnosis of cancer or other serious illness, a significant loss or something else that has your mind racing at night and waking up each morning full of worry.
It can feel daunting to begin the search for a therapist you feel like you actually connect with. Especially when you are the one used to taking care of others in your life -it takes courage to focus on what YOU need. Perhaps on the outside you might be holding it together but spend your days feeling disconnected, struggling within your relationships or feeling reactive and angry but not able to identify the “why.” Or maybe you are navigating a big change -a diagnosis of cancer or other serious illness, a significant loss or something else that has your mind racing at night and waking up each morning full of worry.
![Photo of Brittany Tachkov, LMFT, APCC, MT-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76ad5643-526c-43b5-bc75-f509b63b2b04/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Tachkov
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94588
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Is your family navigating increased stress or a new medical or mental health need? We will look to discover your strengths and make a personalized approach to facing life’s changes and challenges. My experience with children, adolescents, LGBTQ+ youth, and adults have supported coping with the impact of grief, loss, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. My years of music therapy work includes facilitating connection, meaning, and understanding in the context of families coping with chronic and terminal illness, children’s bereavement groups, and intergenerational support.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Is your family navigating increased stress or a new medical or mental health need? We will look to discover your strengths and make a personalized approach to facing life’s changes and challenges. My experience with children, adolescents, LGBTQ+ youth, and adults have supported coping with the impact of grief, loss, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. My years of music therapy work includes facilitating connection, meaning, and understanding in the context of families coping with chronic and terminal illness, children’s bereavement groups, and intergenerational support.
![Photo of Joanna Kwan, MA, LPCC, NCC, CCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69e668f5-c821-4ba1-adc7-033a614cd70f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joanna Kwan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95826 (Online Only)
Running on autopilot, feeling numb, feeling miserable, and perpetual suffering. Feeling overwhelmed. Nothing I do is right? I’m not good enough. Feeling like you can’t change a situation? Your life feels out of control, things are blowing up in your face, and you feel lost. Your life seems to be more difficult than you imagine, and you just want to make things right. You are either content or dissatisfied, no other way out or around. You’re just stuck. You want to be more present with yourself or the people around you. "I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become." - Carl G. Jung
Running on autopilot, feeling numb, feeling miserable, and perpetual suffering. Feeling overwhelmed. Nothing I do is right? I’m not good enough. Feeling like you can’t change a situation? Your life feels out of control, things are blowing up in your face, and you feel lost. Your life seems to be more difficult than you imagine, and you just want to make things right. You are either content or dissatisfied, no other way out or around. You’re just stuck. You want to be more present with yourself or the people around you. "I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become." - Carl G. Jung
![Photo of Sarah-Brooke Stiles - Mind-Body Integrative Therapy, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05406e01-db08-42e7-b694-bf29be82e198/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mind-Body Integrative Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Granite Bay, CA 95746 (Online Only)
When your Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) is perpetually alerted to be in a survival state (due to various life stressors) you might notice symptoms such as chronic fatigue, adrenal deficiency, perpetual irritability, trouble with sleeping, digestive issues, various mental health challenges and the list goes on. Holistic approaches to wellness that incorporate body-brain based therapy models get at the root of these issues and begin turning down the dial on your ANS so that you can live a longer, healthier life.
When your Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) is perpetually alerted to be in a survival state (due to various life stressors) you might notice symptoms such as chronic fatigue, adrenal deficiency, perpetual irritability, trouble with sleeping, digestive issues, various mental health challenges and the list goes on. Holistic approaches to wellness that incorporate body-brain based therapy models get at the root of these issues and begin turning down the dial on your ANS so that you can live a longer, healthier life.
![Photo of Navneet Kaur - Safe Space Counseling](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db2db421-2212-4de3-ac45-3b1097d1774b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Safe Space Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elk Grove, CA 95758
At Safe Space Counseling, our mission is to provide you with specialized care and therapeutic solutions for your mental health and relational issues. We understand the confusion that is part of every personal issue and want to help you gain deeper understanding, and ultimately find clarity. Our team works with you to find effective and realistic solutions, while strengthening your bond with your partner, and yourself. You don't have to carry the mental and emotional load alone, let us provide you a warm and welcoming space, where you can voice your concerns freely and be unburdened by all that you are carrying.
At Safe Space Counseling, our mission is to provide you with specialized care and therapeutic solutions for your mental health and relational issues. We understand the confusion that is part of every personal issue and want to help you gain deeper understanding, and ultimately find clarity. Our team works with you to find effective and realistic solutions, while strengthening your bond with your partner, and yourself. You don't have to carry the mental and emotional load alone, let us provide you a warm and welcoming space, where you can voice your concerns freely and be unburdened by all that you are carrying.
![Photo of Mark Steinberg, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40e5a504-4c05-4b40-bea0-a2cfb951835d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am sensitive to the hope and vulnerability of people seeking help. I know that reaching out to a mental health professional takes courage and trust. There also may be skepticism. From the very beginning, I respect patient needs and questions and provide answers.
I am sensitive to the hope and vulnerability of people seeking help. I know that reaching out to a mental health professional takes courage and trust. There also may be skepticism. From the very beginning, I respect patient needs and questions and provide answers.
![Photo of Merrill Powers, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/417976e9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Worried? Anxious? Blue? Feelings can be the result of your situation,or they can be triggered by deeper issues such as attachment, trauma, and unprocessed memories. EMDR "turbocharges" the processing of painful memories. Adults, teens, and children with a history of abuse, trauma, and loss can heal quickly. I also specialize in resolving relationship issues and helping families become stronger. Whether you need help to navigate life transitions or to realize your full potential for emotional growth, therapy is a highly interactive process. Together we develop a plan for treatment involving care and commitment. Feel better!
Worried? Anxious? Blue? Feelings can be the result of your situation,or they can be triggered by deeper issues such as attachment, trauma, and unprocessed memories. EMDR "turbocharges" the processing of painful memories. Adults, teens, and children with a history of abuse, trauma, and loss can heal quickly. I also specialize in resolving relationship issues and helping families become stronger. Whether you need help to navigate life transitions or to realize your full potential for emotional growth, therapy is a highly interactive process. Together we develop a plan for treatment involving care and commitment. Feel better!
![Photo of Daniel Moultrie - Fresno Family Therapy, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4918eda8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Fresno Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93711
At Fresno Family Therapy we provide Individual, Child/Teen, Couples, and Family Therapy. Our mission is to provide high quality, reliable, and evidence based counseling services for the community of Fresno. You do not need to go through this on your own… we are here to help. We believe that you deserve to feel well and seeking help is strength, not a weakness.
At Fresno Family Therapy we provide Individual, Child/Teen, Couples, and Family Therapy. Our mission is to provide high quality, reliable, and evidence based counseling services for the community of Fresno. You do not need to go through this on your own… we are here to help. We believe that you deserve to feel well and seeking help is strength, not a weakness.
![Photo of Petra Glenesk, MA, ICF-ACC, NBC-HWC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43b5fac8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I hold credentials as a Life Coach (ACC) and a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC), focusing on an integrative and holistic approach. Through personalized coaching sessions, I empower clients to swiftly develop new skills to meet their goals and enrich their personal, social, and professional lives. Clients working with me often achieve improved sleep and motivation, reduced stress, increased resilience, enhanced mental clarity and focus, improved emotional balance, better work-life equilibrium, and an overall sense of calm, happiness, and heightened energy levels.
I hold credentials as a Life Coach (ACC) and a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC), focusing on an integrative and holistic approach. Through personalized coaching sessions, I empower clients to swiftly develop new skills to meet their goals and enrich their personal, social, and professional lives. Clients working with me often achieve improved sleep and motivation, reduced stress, increased resilience, enhanced mental clarity and focus, improved emotional balance, better work-life equilibrium, and an overall sense of calm, happiness, and heightened energy levels.
See more therapy options for Twain Harte
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.