Photo of Donald Mitchell Goodman - Don M Goodman Inc, PhD, CCHt, CDMHRS, Psychologist
Don M Goodman Inc
Psychologist, PhD, CCHt, CDMHRS
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
I am on staff at UCLA as chief pain psychologist in the Orofacial pain department and I have offices in Santa Monica and Thousand Oaks.
I believe anxiety and stress to be the foundation of many issues we all face. My first goal is to help my patients reduce stress thereby decreasing chronic pain, depression and even the ravages of disease and illness. By developing rapport and trust and then utilizing healthy coping skills, the goal of anxiety reduction can be achieved. Its important to remember that we are engaged in a collaborative process where we learn to accept, resolve, move on and let go. I find that mindfulness, meditation and breathing is highly effective in decreasing anxiety and depression.
I am on staff at UCLA as chief pain psychologist in the Orofacial pain department and I have offices in Santa Monica and Thousand Oaks.
I believe anxiety and stress to be the foundation of many issues we all face. My first goal is to help my patients reduce stress thereby decreasing chronic pain, depression and even the ravages of disease and illness. By developing rapport and trust and then utilizing healthy coping skills, the goal of anxiety reduction can be achieved. Its important to remember that we are engaged in a collaborative process where we learn to accept, resolve, move on and let go. I find that mindfulness, meditation and breathing is highly effective in decreasing anxiety and depression.
(818) 462-8293 View (818) 462-8293
Photo of Dr. Kathryn Star Gutierrez, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Kathryn Star Gutierrez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
I weave a mosaic of individual group therapy, shepard patients toward effective communication & coping skills, illuminate a path of career choices, aid in the delicate realm of pain management.
My professional voyage has traversed healthcare, the realm of workers' compensation, and the corridors of education, all of which have endowed me with a rich tapestry of skills. I’m Kathryn Star Gutierrez, Ph.D., clinical psychologist, educator, & artist specializing in the art of healing. I focus on patients who grapple with the weight of chronic pain, dance with the shadows of anxiety and depression, and bear the scars of trauma. I am specialized in treating family members including children struggling with depression associated with possible deportation of a close family member.
I weave a mosaic of individual group therapy, shepard patients toward effective communication & coping skills, illuminate a path of career choices, aid in the delicate realm of pain management.
My professional voyage has traversed healthcare, the realm of workers' compensation, and the corridors of education, all of which have endowed me with a rich tapestry of skills. I’m Kathryn Star Gutierrez, Ph.D., clinical psychologist, educator, & artist specializing in the art of healing. I focus on patients who grapple with the weight of chronic pain, dance with the shadows of anxiety and depression, and bear the scars of trauma. I am specialized in treating family members including children struggling with depression associated with possible deportation of a close family member.
(818) 726-7594 View (818) 726-7594
Photo of Erik S Lande - Insight Neuropsychology, PhD, Psychologist
Insight Neuropsychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Camarillo, CA 93010
My staff and I specialize in providing neuropsychological assessments of traumatic brain injury, dementia, stroke, neurological illness, and ADHD/learning disability.
Welcome, our practice at Insight Neuropsychology specializes in personalized neuropsychological assessment and treatment services to assist you in promoting your cognitive health. Our goal is to help you learn about how your brain is functioning, as insight is the first step in learning how to improve your mental functions. Neuropsychological assessment is one of the most sensitive instruments for detecting subtle cognitive deficits that are not obvious on MRI's or other brain scans, but which can have a large impact on a person's daily functioning. In addition to assessment, we also provide supportive counseling for patients and caregivers.
My staff and I specialize in providing neuropsychological assessments of traumatic brain injury, dementia, stroke, neurological illness, and ADHD/learning disability.
Welcome, our practice at Insight Neuropsychology specializes in personalized neuropsychological assessment and treatment services to assist you in promoting your cognitive health. Our goal is to help you learn about how your brain is functioning, as insight is the first step in learning how to improve your mental functions. Neuropsychological assessment is one of the most sensitive instruments for detecting subtle cognitive deficits that are not obvious on MRI's or other brain scans, but which can have a large impact on a person's daily functioning. In addition to assessment, we also provide supportive counseling for patients and caregivers.
(805) 467-7062 View (805) 467-7062
Photo of Shushan Khachatryan, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shushan Khachatryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
IT IS IN OUR DARKEST MOMENTS THAT WE MUST FOCUS TO SEE THE LIGHT. Your present circumstance does not determine your future. It's time to move from suffering & hardship to a place of happiness & comfort. I provide treatment & symptom relief for Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Trauma, OCD, Addiction, Anger, Grief, Infertility, Chronic Illness, Unemployment, & other life challenges that are holding you back from living the life you deserve. My goal is to assist you in working towards your potential & improving your well-being, as well as build on your strengths & attain the personal growth you are committed to accomplishing.
IT IS IN OUR DARKEST MOMENTS THAT WE MUST FOCUS TO SEE THE LIGHT. Your present circumstance does not determine your future. It's time to move from suffering & hardship to a place of happiness & comfort. I provide treatment & symptom relief for Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Trauma, OCD, Addiction, Anger, Grief, Infertility, Chronic Illness, Unemployment, & other life challenges that are holding you back from living the life you deserve. My goal is to assist you in working towards your potential & improving your well-being, as well as build on your strengths & attain the personal growth you are committed to accomplishing.
(818) 926-3030 View (818) 926-3030
Photo of Casey J. Simon, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Casey J. Simon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I have a particular interest and expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of personality disorders, psychotic disorders, and dissociative disorders using a psychodynamic treatment approach in order to help increase insight and tolerance for psychic pain.
When it comes to mental illness, treatment and outlook can feel daunting. My therapeutic approach is developed on an individual basis with an emphasis on reshaping personality organization in order to create long-lasting change. I truly enjoy assisting my patients in defeating their symptoms and regaining control of their lives. I have experience working with an array of individuals, ranging from young children to adults suffering from a multitude of mental health issues. Aside from my private practice, I work as a group therapist in an intensive outpatient program with individuals just released from emergency psychiatric care.
I have a particular interest and expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of personality disorders, psychotic disorders, and dissociative disorders using a psychodynamic treatment approach in order to help increase insight and tolerance for psychic pain.
When it comes to mental illness, treatment and outlook can feel daunting. My therapeutic approach is developed on an individual basis with an emphasis on reshaping personality organization in order to create long-lasting change. I truly enjoy assisting my patients in defeating their symptoms and regaining control of their lives. I have experience working with an array of individuals, ranging from young children to adults suffering from a multitude of mental health issues. Aside from my private practice, I work as a group therapist in an intensive outpatient program with individuals just released from emergency psychiatric care.
(805) 716-6072 View (805) 716-6072
Nick Barneclo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Camarillo, CA 93010
I have been in private practice for over 20 years. I enjoy working with children, families, and adults in helping empower others to overcome difficult periods in life. While I do have occasional openings for therapy, I specialize in psychological testing and understanding the "big picture" to provide diagnosis and direction for treatment. I can assist in evaluations for learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Neuropsychological deficits, developmental delays, behavior disorders, sexual disorders, Forensic (Competency, Psychosexual risk), school evaluations, Spanish-speaking evals, and more.
I have been in private practice for over 20 years. I enjoy working with children, families, and adults in helping empower others to overcome difficult periods in life. While I do have occasional openings for therapy, I specialize in psychological testing and understanding the "big picture" to provide diagnosis and direction for treatment. I can assist in evaluations for learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Neuropsychological deficits, developmental delays, behavior disorders, sexual disorders, Forensic (Competency, Psychosexual risk), school evaluations, Spanish-speaking evals, and more.
(310) 919-0119 View (310) 919-0119
Photo of Darlene Joy Manick, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darlene Joy Manick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
I specialize in treating treating high achieving individuals & couples, with perfectionist tendencies. My priority is your emotional safety. Non judgmental support allows for your sharing openly and honestly. The need to "be right" can be unconscious, & you may be hurting those you love. My skilled intuition, and 25+ yrs. of clinical success, knows hope is available for the motivated and committed recovering anxious, obsessive, & over analyzing adult. Our trusting relationship inspires you to reflect upon your life/relationship goals; together we explore, & honestly challenge: "Do I want to be right?" Or, do I want to be loved?"
I specialize in treating treating high achieving individuals & couples, with perfectionist tendencies. My priority is your emotional safety. Non judgmental support allows for your sharing openly and honestly. The need to "be right" can be unconscious, & you may be hurting those you love. My skilled intuition, and 25+ yrs. of clinical success, knows hope is available for the motivated and committed recovering anxious, obsessive, & over analyzing adult. Our trusting relationship inspires you to reflect upon your life/relationship goals; together we explore, & honestly challenge: "Do I want to be right?" Or, do I want to be loved?"
(818) 639-4919 View (818) 639-4919
Photo of Jackie Harris-Groeber, PhD, Psychologist
Jackie Harris-Groeber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001
In person therapy is provided for ages 3-90. In child therapy, there is an opportunity to encourage the resilience that exists in each child. Kids often find therapy fun! Therapy provides an efficient way to examine tough situations and gives your child the tools to move into the future with optimism and confidence. Enhancing skills for emotional and behavioral regulation leads to better family communication, improved mood and more success at school. In these times, many children need help with anxiety, grief, depression or trauma. As a Parent, you will see your child feel better and be provided with essential parent coaching.
In person therapy is provided for ages 3-90. In child therapy, there is an opportunity to encourage the resilience that exists in each child. Kids often find therapy fun! Therapy provides an efficient way to examine tough situations and gives your child the tools to move into the future with optimism and confidence. Enhancing skills for emotional and behavioral regulation leads to better family communication, improved mood and more success at school. In these times, many children need help with anxiety, grief, depression or trauma. As a Parent, you will see your child feel better and be provided with essential parent coaching.
(805) 394-3811 View (805) 394-3811
Photo of Edmon Artinyan - Lifespan: Center for Family Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Lifespan: Center for Family Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
Lifespan is a center specializing in mental health diagnosis and treatment across all ages. We specialize in providing psychological testing, neuropsychological evaluations, and neurodevelopmental assessments and provide diagnostic clarity, referrals, resources, and treatment plans. We help in identifying learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, issues with attention, and memory and learning complaints, to name a few. Psychological testing can help to clarify between different diagnoses (e.g., ADHD vs Anxiety), provide answers about general difficulties you or your child may be having, and be used for schools to help accommodate you or your child’s needs. We help you better understand your strengths and identify areas of support. Furthermore, we specialize in pre-surgical evaluations (e.g., bariatric, reconstructive, etc.) and work directly with surgeons to optimize outcomes.
Lifespan is a center specializing in mental health diagnosis and treatment across all ages. We specialize in providing psychological testing, neuropsychological evaluations, and neurodevelopmental assessments and provide diagnostic clarity, referrals, resources, and treatment plans. We help in identifying learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, issues with attention, and memory and learning complaints, to name a few. Psychological testing can help to clarify between different diagnoses (e.g., ADHD vs Anxiety), provide answers about general difficulties you or your child may be having, and be used for schools to help accommodate you or your child’s needs. We help you better understand your strengths and identify areas of support. Furthermore, we specialize in pre-surgical evaluations (e.g., bariatric, reconstructive, etc.) and work directly with surgeons to optimize outcomes.
(805) 852-5039 View (805) 852-5039
Photo of Kimberly Martin, PsyD, CATC V, Psychologist
Kimberly Martin
Psychologist, PsyD, CATC V
Verified Verified
Camarillo, CA 93010
The therapeutic relationship is a partnership, and your voice is central to our dialogue. Together, we will co-create a space where you can explore and understand the patterns that may be impacting your life. My role is to enhance insight and facilitate self-discovery as you work towards your goals.
The therapeutic relationship is a partnership, and your voice is central to our dialogue. Together, we will co-create a space where you can explore and understand the patterns that may be impacting your life. My role is to enhance insight and facilitate self-discovery as you work towards your goals.
(805) 590-7835 View (805) 590-7835
Photo of Dr. Melissa Mercedes, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Melissa Mercedes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023  (Online Only)
Dr. Mercedes specializes in perinatal mental health and the use of evidence-based therapies to address trauma, depression, and anxiety in adults and adolescents. With extensive experience treating trauma, PTSD, and mood and anxiety disorders, Dr. Mercedes is committed to fostering healing and resilience in her clients. Successful outcomes include improved overall well-being and life functioning, as well as the client's ability to independently use the skills developed during therapy to recognize and manage potential life stressors while pursuing value-based goals.
Dr. Mercedes specializes in perinatal mental health and the use of evidence-based therapies to address trauma, depression, and anxiety in adults and adolescents. With extensive experience treating trauma, PTSD, and mood and anxiety disorders, Dr. Mercedes is committed to fostering healing and resilience in her clients. Successful outcomes include improved overall well-being and life functioning, as well as the client's ability to independently use the skills developed during therapy to recognize and manage potential life stressors while pursuing value-based goals.
(805) 977-5994 View (805) 977-5994
Photo of Dr. Telehealth Humphreys - ProWellness Academy, PsyD, pd23713
ProWellness Academy
PsyD, pd23713
Verified Verified
The Professional Wellness Academy specializes in focused, integrated Counseling Treatment. ProWellness Academy services individuals, Hospitals, facilities and MAT physician’s patients suffering from Substance Use and/or Behavioral Wellness Disorders. ProWellness Academy has office locations in most major cities and also provides seamless Hipaa Compliant TELEHEALTH software for the home bound; we are committed to evidence-based, “Whole Approach” to treatment that incorporates multidisciplinary modalities. Hand-in-hand with our professional network of therapists, counselors, physicians, and case managers; we pursue excellence.
The Professional Wellness Academy specializes in focused, integrated Counseling Treatment. ProWellness Academy services individuals, Hospitals, facilities and MAT physician’s patients suffering from Substance Use and/or Behavioral Wellness Disorders. ProWellness Academy has office locations in most major cities and also provides seamless Hipaa Compliant TELEHEALTH software for the home bound; we are committed to evidence-based, “Whole Approach” to treatment that incorporates multidisciplinary modalities. Hand-in-hand with our professional network of therapists, counselors, physicians, and case managers; we pursue excellence.
(805) 429-6049 View (805) 429-6049
Photo of Chuck F Kairys, PsyD, Psychologist
Chuck F Kairys
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newbury Park, CA 91320
Rarely is the step towards seeking help from a therapist easy, or without contemplation. Here is a description of what I've found works best. During our first meeting, I engage you in a process to help you find the best fit possible for your particular needs. Together we can work on defining the right type and style of treatment best for you. We can define specific needs for either long or short term problems that are specific to you individually. This short process will give needed direction to your personal journey.
Rarely is the step towards seeking help from a therapist easy, or without contemplation. Here is a description of what I've found works best. During our first meeting, I engage you in a process to help you find the best fit possible for your particular needs. Together we can work on defining the right type and style of treatment best for you. We can define specific needs for either long or short term problems that are specific to you individually. This short process will give needed direction to your personal journey.
(818) 741-2408 View (818) 741-2408
Photo of Irene S Fruchtbaum, PhD, QME, Psychologist
Irene S Fruchtbaum
Psychologist, PhD, QME
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065
I am a licensed, clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience in psychology and psychotherapy with individuals, family and couples. I've been involved in private practice as well as numerous pro-bono projects including organizing a counseling program for Soviet immigrants, providing lectures and seminars for parents on issues of teenage substance abuse and behavior problems.
I am a licensed, clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience in psychology and psychotherapy with individuals, family and couples. I've been involved in private practice as well as numerous pro-bono projects including organizing a counseling program for Soviet immigrants, providing lectures and seminars for parents on issues of teenage substance abuse and behavior problems.
(213) 322-0520 View (213) 322-0520
Photo of Laurie Montes, PhD, Psychologist
Laurie Montes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Waitlist for new clients
(805) 209-2196 View (805) 209-2196

Online Therapists

Photo of Kyle Hollis Nixon - Nixon Psychological Institute, PhD, Psychologist
Nixon Psychological Institute
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chino, CA 91710
We aim to provide space to heal emotional pain and encourage growth for a purpose driven life.
We are a group practice that specializes in students and graduates in high pressured settings and environments. If you struggle with being overwhelmed, facing unfair demands, and looking for support, we get you. Consider giving us a call. Let us help you navigate the relentless demands of school and work. Let us help you navigate relationships and form close, meaningful connections with those who matter most to you.
We aim to provide space to heal emotional pain and encourage growth for a purpose driven life.
We are a group practice that specializes in students and graduates in high pressured settings and environments. If you struggle with being overwhelmed, facing unfair demands, and looking for support, we get you. Consider giving us a call. Let us help you navigate the relentless demands of school and work. Let us help you navigate relationships and form close, meaningful connections with those who matter most to you.
(909) 248-3434 View (909) 248-3434
Photo of Sibylle Georgianna, PhD, PSY, EMDR-C, CSAT-S, CCPS, Psychologist
Sibylle Georgianna
Psychologist, PhD, PSY, EMDR-C, CSAT-S, CCPS
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you visit face-to-face in the office or in an online consultation with me: there is hope for your/your loved one: Confused or overwhelmed by what you are facing (e.g., relationship distress, dealing with complex physical conditions)? Trying to make sense of what is going on? Affected by betrayal or simply looking for tools to navigate today's complex challenges? I help adults, couples, and adolescents to eliminate problem behaviors or issues related to stress including work, sex, love relationships. I treat sexual pain, internet and pornography addiction, emotional/sexual affairs, trauma, and financial betrayal.
Whether you visit face-to-face in the office or in an online consultation with me: there is hope for your/your loved one: Confused or overwhelmed by what you are facing (e.g., relationship distress, dealing with complex physical conditions)? Trying to make sense of what is going on? Affected by betrayal or simply looking for tools to navigate today's complex challenges? I help adults, couples, and adolescents to eliminate problem behaviors or issues related to stress including work, sex, love relationships. I treat sexual pain, internet and pornography addiction, emotional/sexual affairs, trauma, and financial betrayal.
(562) 203-8846 View (562) 203-8846
Photo of Paige E. Roberts, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, CBP, CLT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige E. Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, CBP, CLT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401  (Online Only)
Being an athlete and high functioning over achiever I have always been intrigued by optimizing mind-body-spirit performance to remedy mental illness symptoms.
I assist athletes and high performers in undoing the stressors, traumas, past pains causing mental illness symptoms like depression, performance anxiety, apathy, insomnia and a performance decline. I use Alpha Imprinting technique to allow for athletes to reset their nervous system from past hurts, pains, injuries, traumas and stressors so they can regain and expand on their peak performance abilities. Alpha Imprinting also desensitizes your nervous system on the sensory or unconscious level from any potential of worst-case scenarios in life and in sports so you can maintain flow "alpha" brain wave state while performing.
Being an athlete and high functioning over achiever I have always been intrigued by optimizing mind-body-spirit performance to remedy mental illness symptoms.
I assist athletes and high performers in undoing the stressors, traumas, past pains causing mental illness symptoms like depression, performance anxiety, apathy, insomnia and a performance decline. I use Alpha Imprinting technique to allow for athletes to reset their nervous system from past hurts, pains, injuries, traumas and stressors so they can regain and expand on their peak performance abilities. Alpha Imprinting also desensitizes your nervous system on the sensory or unconscious level from any potential of worst-case scenarios in life and in sports so you can maintain flow "alpha" brain wave state while performing.
(206) 207-4377 View (206) 207-4377
Photo of Marissa Long, MAOB, PsyD, Psychologist
Marissa Long
Psychologist, MAOB, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Claremont, CA 91711
I work with individuals, couples and groups with a wide range of clinical issues including depression, insomnia, anxiety and stress, relationship issues, trauma, grief and loss, medical health issues (adjustment to and management of chronic diagnoses, infertility, pain, prenatal and postnatal health, bariatric assessment, business & workplace concerns), and life transitions (marriage, college, retirement, parenthood etc.
I work at ARC Counseling and Wellness both online and in person. I utilize treatment approaches based upon the unique needs of each client while considering the scientific efficacy of each therapeutic intervention. My experience and training have made me sensitive to the fact that no two clients are the same and thus I approach treatment with consideration of each client's values, cultural identity, religious or spiritual beliefs, strengths, and life experiences. I endeavor to provide a supportive therapeutic environment in which clients may become empowered and move towards a greater quality of life.
I work with individuals, couples and groups with a wide range of clinical issues including depression, insomnia, anxiety and stress, relationship issues, trauma, grief and loss, medical health issues (adjustment to and management of chronic diagnoses, infertility, pain, prenatal and postnatal health, bariatric assessment, business & workplace concerns), and life transitions (marriage, college, retirement, parenthood etc.
I work at ARC Counseling and Wellness both online and in person. I utilize treatment approaches based upon the unique needs of each client while considering the scientific efficacy of each therapeutic intervention. My experience and training have made me sensitive to the fact that no two clients are the same and thus I approach treatment with consideration of each client's values, cultural identity, religious or spiritual beliefs, strengths, and life experiences. I endeavor to provide a supportive therapeutic environment in which clients may become empowered and move towards a greater quality of life.
(909) 543-1237 View (909) 543-1237
Photo of Raphael Ziegler The Neurobehavioral Healthcare Ctr, MS , PhD, Psychologist
Raphael Ziegler The Neurobehavioral Healthcare Ctr
Psychologist, MS , PhD
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
He also utilizes a cognitive-behavioral approach to treating couples issues, depression, anxiety, and adjustment to chronic illness and aging.
We are a group practice dedicated to providing comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological assessment and empirically validated treatment of mental health disorders for adults and older adults. We specialize in individuals suffering from a wide range of neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia, stroke, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis, as well as concerns related to normal aging. We have a cognitive-behavioral approach in which we assist individuals in identifying maladaptive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, that contribute to emotional distress and suboptimal functioning.
He also utilizes a cognitive-behavioral approach to treating couples issues, depression, anxiety, and adjustment to chronic illness and aging.
We are a group practice dedicated to providing comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological assessment and empirically validated treatment of mental health disorders for adults and older adults. We specialize in individuals suffering from a wide range of neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia, stroke, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis, as well as concerns related to normal aging. We have a cognitive-behavioral approach in which we assist individuals in identifying maladaptive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, that contribute to emotional distress and suboptimal functioning.
(310) 598-3545 View (310) 598-3545

See more therapy options for Ventura County

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.