Chronic Pain Therapists in Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Photo of Sheena Janine Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheena Janine Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730  (Online Only)
I specifically specialize in working in anxiety, depression, PTSD and those suffering with chronic pain conditions and trauma.
Hi! I am an LCSW with 12 years of diverse experience in many areas of mental health. I graduated from my MSW program at USC in 2010 and became licensed in 2014. I enjoy working with adults and children, as well as couples. I understand that therapy, while it can be a wonderful and positive experience, it can also be intimidating. I will really work hard to make you feel comfortable and be understanding. I’m here to walk with you side by side and help you achieve your goals.
I specifically specialize in working in anxiety, depression, PTSD and those suffering with chronic pain conditions and trauma.
Hi! I am an LCSW with 12 years of diverse experience in many areas of mental health. I graduated from my MSW program at USC in 2010 and became licensed in 2014. I enjoy working with adults and children, as well as couples. I understand that therapy, while it can be a wonderful and positive experience, it can also be intimidating. I will really work hard to make you feel comfortable and be understanding. I’m here to walk with you side by side and help you achieve your goals.
(951) 396-4913 View (951) 396-4913
Photo of Andreana Mabry - Andreana Mabry EMDR Intensives, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andreana Mabry EMDR Intensives
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
People find me when their old coping strategies stop working. If your usual strategies for handling life just…broke... you're not the only one going through that. You might have tried to OUT-PERFORM your pain. Or maybe you tried to OUT-RUN your pain. Finally, you tried to OUT-PRAY your pain. All of these strategies kind-of work a little. Thankfully. Hard work, moving and breathing, and spirituality are an important part of recovering from stress. But these strategies don’t work all the way because the mind and body combine to create a specific reaction when we’ve been through something awful.
People find me when their old coping strategies stop working. If your usual strategies for handling life just…broke... you're not the only one going through that. You might have tried to OUT-PERFORM your pain. Or maybe you tried to OUT-RUN your pain. Finally, you tried to OUT-PRAY your pain. All of these strategies kind-of work a little. Thankfully. Hard work, moving and breathing, and spirituality are an important part of recovering from stress. But these strategies don’t work all the way because the mind and body combine to create a specific reaction when we’ve been through something awful.
(951) 309-7494 View (951) 309-7494
Photo of Erica S. Solis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erica S. Solis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
I have several years of experience working with diverse populations experiencing crisis, family issues, acute mental illness, anxiety, depression, and behavior issues.
I offer psychotherapy with an integrative approach utilizing various theoretical frameworks to individualize sessions and treatment goals. While working collaboratively we will develop a treatment plan that will be tailored to your specific needs. Together we will create an environment where you will feel safe, heard, and free to explore all of your challenges. By gaining a deeper understanding of the origins of these challenges and learning new strategies to address them, you will leave sessions empowered to begin your journey to personal growth.
I have several years of experience working with diverse populations experiencing crisis, family issues, acute mental illness, anxiety, depression, and behavior issues.
I offer psychotherapy with an integrative approach utilizing various theoretical frameworks to individualize sessions and treatment goals. While working collaboratively we will develop a treatment plan that will be tailored to your specific needs. Together we will create an environment where you will feel safe, heard, and free to explore all of your challenges. By gaining a deeper understanding of the origins of these challenges and learning new strategies to address them, you will leave sessions empowered to begin your journey to personal growth.
(909) 359-7366 View (909) 359-7366
Photo of Mindy Richard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindy Richard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91737  (Online Only)
I understand how hard life can be sometimes. It is often hard to understand how we feel and determine how to help ourselves feel better. Emotional pain can stem from many different things. I will listen to you and work with you to determine where that pain is coming from and how you can work to better cope with it. It is my goal to help every patient feel heard, understood and valued. You have the strength within you to feel better, I will help you to find that strength and to use it. I will not just help you talk about it. I will help you to understand the pain and identify a better way to feel and a better way to live.
I understand how hard life can be sometimes. It is often hard to understand how we feel and determine how to help ourselves feel better. Emotional pain can stem from many different things. I will listen to you and work with you to determine where that pain is coming from and how you can work to better cope with it. It is my goal to help every patient feel heard, understood and valued. You have the strength within you to feel better, I will help you to find that strength and to use it. I will not just help you talk about it. I will help you to understand the pain and identify a better way to feel and a better way to live.
(909) 413-4818 View (909) 413-4818
Photo of Jeraleen M Peterson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeraleen M Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
An Eskimo proverb says," The cold place often builds the strongest igloo." meaning that even with awful challenges in your life, there can be a secure place of healing and resilience. How are you doing with your experiences of Crisis, Trauma, Grief, Relationship Failure, Chronic Illness or Disability? If the pain of disappointment has decreased your hope or you find yourself with more questions than answers or maybe you are struggling to gain the strength and motivation you need to just live each day. Let"s build that igloo.
An Eskimo proverb says," The cold place often builds the strongest igloo." meaning that even with awful challenges in your life, there can be a secure place of healing and resilience. How are you doing with your experiences of Crisis, Trauma, Grief, Relationship Failure, Chronic Illness or Disability? If the pain of disappointment has decreased your hope or you find yourself with more questions than answers or maybe you are struggling to gain the strength and motivation you need to just live each day. Let"s build that igloo.
(909) 451-8432 View (909) 451-8432
Photo of Katie Lozano, BS, MSW, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katie Lozano
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! Our center provides affordable telehealth/online therapy only. I have worked with all age groups, individuals, couples, and families., including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, anger management, chronic pain, fears, trauma, grief/loss, military families, personal growth, and life transitions. I utilized an array of therapeutic interventions stemming from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic-based therapy, Strength-based therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Narrative therapy.
Hello and welcome! Our center provides affordable telehealth/online therapy only. I have worked with all age groups, individuals, couples, and families., including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, anger management, chronic pain, fears, trauma, grief/loss, military families, personal growth, and life transitions. I utilized an array of therapeutic interventions stemming from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic-based therapy, Strength-based therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Narrative therapy.
(951) 406-2585 View (951) 406-2585
Photo of Julie Flores, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Flores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
Hi, my name is Julie Flores. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). My approach is client-focused and tailored to meet individual needs. I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, chronic pain, issues of the aging and elderly, and life changes. I have practiced social work and therapy for many years and look forward to providing services and helping clients improve their lives. My focus is primarily on providing services to adults with a variety of concerns such as depression, anxiety, and adjustment-type issues. I focus on those with mild to moderate mental health concerns and would be happy to evaluate any other concerns.
Hi, my name is Julie Flores. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). My approach is client-focused and tailored to meet individual needs. I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, chronic pain, issues of the aging and elderly, and life changes. I have practiced social work and therapy for many years and look forward to providing services and helping clients improve their lives. My focus is primarily on providing services to adults with a variety of concerns such as depression, anxiety, and adjustment-type issues. I focus on those with mild to moderate mental health concerns and would be happy to evaluate any other concerns.
(858) 428-2692 View (858) 428-2692
Photo of Sarai Tovar, MA
Sarai Tovar
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91701  (Online Only)
Hi there, I appreciate you taking the time to learn more about me and what I can offer you! I work with all age groups, individuals, couples, and families who are stuggling with mental health challenges; including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, anger management, chronic pain, fears, grief/loss, United States Armed Forces, personal growth, parent-child conflict, infidelity and transitioning.
Hi there, I appreciate you taking the time to learn more about me and what I can offer you! I work with all age groups, individuals, couples, and families who are stuggling with mental health challenges; including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, anger management, chronic pain, fears, grief/loss, United States Armed Forces, personal growth, parent-child conflict, infidelity and transitioning.
(747) 335-6819 View (747) 335-6819
Photo of Stacey Georgiou, MSW, ASW, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stacey Georgiou
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW, MA
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730  (Online Only)
I have been working in the clinical field for 25 years, and specialize in working with depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, anger management, chronic pain, eating and weight challenges, fears, trauma, grief/loss, military families, personal growth, and life transitions.
Hello and welcome to our center which provides affordable online/telehealth service. My goal is to create a safe and open environment to support the expression of your innermost thoughts, beliefs, behaviors, and feelings. I believe that processing, understanding, and working through these dynamics will create the necessary change and internal growth to achieve your life goals.
I have been working in the clinical field for 25 years, and specialize in working with depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, anger management, chronic pain, eating and weight challenges, fears, trauma, grief/loss, military families, personal growth, and life transitions.
Hello and welcome to our center which provides affordable online/telehealth service. My goal is to create a safe and open environment to support the expression of your innermost thoughts, beliefs, behaviors, and feelings. I believe that processing, understanding, and working through these dynamics will create the necessary change and internal growth to achieve your life goals.
(747) 245-2811 View (747) 245-2811
Photo of Bryan Altaker, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bryan Altaker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91701
Welcome! I believe in reducing emotional pain, resolving relationship struggles, and improving coping skills. I offer both long-term modalities as well as brief, solution-oriented approaches - and am confident that my therapy approach can be pleasurable, precise, and quickly effective.
Welcome! I believe in reducing emotional pain, resolving relationship struggles, and improving coping skills. I offer both long-term modalities as well as brief, solution-oriented approaches - and am confident that my therapy approach can be pleasurable, precise, and quickly effective.
(661) 760-2771 View (661) 760-2771
Photo of Juan Moriel In Riverside, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Juan Moriel In Riverside
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
Specialties include: Gaslighting and Narcissitic Abuse, Chronic Pain/Physical Illness, Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Transgender Issues, LGBTQI, Work Issues, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Child, Adolescent, & Family Therapy.
Are you a victim of gaslighting and narcissistic abuse? Are you struggling with a relationship problem? Are you tired of going in circles around an issue? Do you feel stuck and not sure what to do? I provide you with the knowledge and understanding of how relationships work and how problems can be resolved in even the most challenging situations. I also specialize in serving the Transgender and Non-Binary communities of all ages and am WPATH certified.
Specialties include: Gaslighting and Narcissitic Abuse, Chronic Pain/Physical Illness, Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Transgender Issues, LGBTQI, Work Issues, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Child, Adolescent, & Family Therapy.
Are you a victim of gaslighting and narcissistic abuse? Are you struggling with a relationship problem? Are you tired of going in circles around an issue? Do you feel stuck and not sure what to do? I provide you with the knowledge and understanding of how relationships work and how problems can be resolved in even the most challenging situations. I also specialize in serving the Transgender and Non-Binary communities of all ages and am WPATH certified.
(626) 344-9907 View (626) 344-9907
Photo of Marissa Long, MAOB, PsyD, Psychologist
Marissa Long
Psychologist, MAOB, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
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 Gabriel Arroyo, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gabriel Arroyo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91737  (Online Only)
I also specialize in working with individuals and families coping with chronic illness.
Are you struggling with relationship issues or challenges within your marriage? Struggling with communication, intimacy issues, or trust issues? If you are facing any of the challenges, now may be the time to start with a therapist that specializes in couples/marriage counseling. We can work together to rebuild skills to reconnect in your relationship by rebuilding communication, intimacy, and trust. Beginning couples counseling may be a hard decision, but can also be the most rewarding with the skillset we can grow. Continue reading below to see if this would be the best fit for your needs or feel free to call.
I also specialize in working with individuals and families coping with chronic illness.
Are you struggling with relationship issues or challenges within your marriage? Struggling with communication, intimacy issues, or trust issues? If you are facing any of the challenges, now may be the time to start with a therapist that specializes in couples/marriage counseling. We can work together to rebuild skills to reconnect in your relationship by rebuilding communication, intimacy, and trust. Beginning couples counseling may be a hard decision, but can also be the most rewarding with the skillset we can grow. Continue reading below to see if this would be the best fit for your needs or feel free to call.
(909) 742-7517 View (909) 742-7517
Photo of Alicia Rodriguez Marenco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Rodriguez Marenco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
I am also well trained in serious mental illness.
Hello, I am Alicia Marenco, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years. I started my career after my husband passed during a combat deployment, while serving in the military and now I love helping others get through tragedy and grief. If you want quality private counseling with a provider that cares about you, then please call me. I enjoy helping people overcome the difficulties that life brings and I love empowering clients to learn the skills necessary to prevail and enjoy a happy, healthy, and successful life. I enjoy working with adults and children and I am bilingual.
I am also well trained in serious mental illness.
Hello, I am Alicia Marenco, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years. I started my career after my husband passed during a combat deployment, while serving in the military and now I love helping others get through tragedy and grief. If you want quality private counseling with a provider that cares about you, then please call me. I enjoy helping people overcome the difficulties that life brings and I love empowering clients to learn the skills necessary to prevail and enjoy a happy, healthy, and successful life. I enjoy working with adults and children and I am bilingual.
(909) 341-4356 View (909) 341-4356
Photo of Carol Rose Adkisson - Healing for Humanity Counseling, Inc., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Healing for Humanity Counseling, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730  (Online Only)
Are you in emotional and/or physical pain? I have over 40 years training and thankfully if you commit to the process, and recognize that you need and want healing.
Are you looking for hope? Whether it is anxiety, depression or addictive behaviors, I have been there and learned practical ways to help speed up the healing process. If you are you a couple that argues or avoids each other, that usually stops in the first 3 sessions. Are you an individual that desperately wants to change and doesn't know how? Through many years of trial and error, education and humor I have created practical ideas to expedite your healing process. My goal is to guide you to a happy and manageable life. If you have a chance watch my video's, see if we are a good fit. Youtube - Carol Rose Adkisson.
Are you in emotional and/or physical pain? I have over 40 years training and thankfully if you commit to the process, and recognize that you need and want healing.
Are you looking for hope? Whether it is anxiety, depression or addictive behaviors, I have been there and learned practical ways to help speed up the healing process. If you are you a couple that argues or avoids each other, that usually stops in the first 3 sessions. Are you an individual that desperately wants to change and doesn't know how? Through many years of trial and error, education and humor I have created practical ideas to expedite your healing process. My goal is to guide you to a happy and manageable life. If you have a chance watch my video's, see if we are a good fit. Youtube - Carol Rose Adkisson.
(909) 693-3177 View (909) 693-3177
Photo of Gabriel Arroyo - Soaring Families Counseling, LMFT
Soaring Families Counseling
LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91701  (Online Only)
Similar to our speciality in working with chronic illness support and life adjustments, we work on strengthening existing skills.
Are you struggling with relationship issues or challenges within your marriage? Struggling with depression, anxiety, and daily stressors? If you are facing any of the challenges, now may be the time to start with a therapist that specializes in these areas. We can work together to rebuild skills to reconnect in your relationship by rebuilding communication, intimacy, and trust. Or growing coping skills to manage the stressors daily life can throw at us. Continue reading below to see if this would be the best fit for your needs or feel free to call.
Similar to our speciality in working with chronic illness support and life adjustments, we work on strengthening existing skills.
Are you struggling with relationship issues or challenges within your marriage? Struggling with depression, anxiety, and daily stressors? If you are facing any of the challenges, now may be the time to start with a therapist that specializes in these areas. We can work together to rebuild skills to reconnect in your relationship by rebuilding communication, intimacy, and trust. Or growing coping skills to manage the stressors daily life can throw at us. Continue reading below to see if this would be the best fit for your needs or feel free to call.
(951) 499-4331 View (951) 499-4331
Photo of Krista H Renella, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Krista H Renella
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
At some point in each of our lives, we may believe that we are unable to feel anything else but sad, lost, hopeless, or stuck. Psychotherapy helps by allowing one to feel safe enough to explore negative feelings and beliefs that affect one's behaviors, mood, and relationships. Over the years, I have both offered & been a consumer of psychotherapy. So, I am aware of any possible fears or hesitation that you may initially have. If you are experiencing low self esteem, hopelessness, panic, loss or grief, neurodivergence (ADHD, ASD, etc), people-pleasing, chronic pain, there is help. I'm here to support you.
At some point in each of our lives, we may believe that we are unable to feel anything else but sad, lost, hopeless, or stuck. Psychotherapy helps by allowing one to feel safe enough to explore negative feelings and beliefs that affect one's behaviors, mood, and relationships. Over the years, I have both offered & been a consumer of psychotherapy. So, I am aware of any possible fears or hesitation that you may initially have. If you are experiencing low self esteem, hopelessness, panic, loss or grief, neurodivergence (ADHD, ASD, etc), people-pleasing, chronic pain, there is help. I'm here to support you.
(760) 306-5607 View (760) 306-5607
Photo of Belinda Nunez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Belinda Nunez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
I have dedicated myself over the last decade to providing efficient, empathetic, and supportive services to countless clients with various needs and circumstances from differing backgrounds and of various ages. I have worked with children in the foster system, teens on probation, babies and parents struggling with attachment, victims of domestic violence, older adults with memory loss, individuals of all ages diagnosed with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities and countless other mental health needs in various social/family/ environmental circumstances. I have over a year experience in providing therapy via Telehealth.
I have dedicated myself over the last decade to providing efficient, empathetic, and supportive services to countless clients with various needs and circumstances from differing backgrounds and of various ages. I have worked with children in the foster system, teens on probation, babies and parents struggling with attachment, victims of domestic violence, older adults with memory loss, individuals of all ages diagnosed with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities and countless other mental health needs in various social/family/ environmental circumstances. I have over a year experience in providing therapy via Telehealth.
(909) 316-5843 View (909) 316-5843
Photo of Danielle Norman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Norman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91701
Hi, my name is Danielle Norman. I have a Doctorate in Psychology and a License in Marriage and Family Therapy. My specialties include childhood trauma/trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment, and parent-child relationships. Currently, my practice focuses on working with adults and adolescents. Clients can present with a number of issues including difficulty in relationships, feeling stuck, low and anxious mood, difficulty coping with stressors, feeling on edge or irritable, and difficulty with sleep.
Hi, my name is Danielle Norman. I have a Doctorate in Psychology and a License in Marriage and Family Therapy. My specialties include childhood trauma/trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment, and parent-child relationships. Currently, my practice focuses on working with adults and adolescents. Clients can present with a number of issues including difficulty in relationships, feeling stuck, low and anxious mood, difficulty coping with stressors, feeling on edge or irritable, and difficulty with sleep.
(951) 494-6487 View (951) 494-6487
Photo of Dairine Pearson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dairine Pearson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
My mission is to empower teens & young adults by providing knowledge/skills needed to cope in this world that is ever changing. I have 10+ years experience working w/ teens & young adults who have experienced various forms of trauma & probation/DCFS/foster care involvement. I also have 10+ years experience working w/ student athletes. As a result of trauma, many have experienced symptoms of anxiety & depression. Many individuals who struggle communicating what they are going through internally, express themselves through their behaviors/actions.
My mission is to empower teens & young adults by providing knowledge/skills needed to cope in this world that is ever changing. I have 10+ years experience working w/ teens & young adults who have experienced various forms of trauma & probation/DCFS/foster care involvement. I also have 10+ years experience working w/ student athletes. As a result of trauma, many have experienced symptoms of anxiety & depression. Many individuals who struggle communicating what they are going through internally, express themselves through their behaviors/actions.
(909) 345-8340 View (909) 345-8340
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Chronic Pain Therapists

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.