Photo of Carol Seixas, PsyD, LCSW, OTRL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Seixas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, OTRL
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Pedro, CA 90731
My specialty areas include working with mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar illness), chronic pain, individual therapy and couples work.
Hello and welcome. I have over 40 years of experience working in the health field and have provided services in a wide range of mental health settings. The patient/client populations I have had the opportunity to help run the full gamut of mental health needs from the serious mentally ill to the person/family who have never needed to see a therapist until "now". I additionally provide support for the system/family new to mental health with education, skills and linking to resources.
My specialty areas include working with mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar illness), chronic pain, individual therapy and couples work.
Hello and welcome. I have over 40 years of experience working in the health field and have provided services in a wide range of mental health settings. The patient/client populations I have had the opportunity to help run the full gamut of mental health needs from the serious mentally ill to the person/family who have never needed to see a therapist until "now". I additionally provide support for the system/family new to mental health with education, skills and linking to resources.
(562) 275-8354 View (562) 275-8354
Photo of Lucia C Cargill, PhD, MSN, MA, PHN, FNP-C
Lucia C Cargill
PhD, MSN, MA, PHN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Sebastopol, CA 95473
l am a cross-cultural specialist with a PhD in Medical Anthropology & a Family Nurse Practitioner with 15 years in psychiatric, pain & primary care practice.
Greetings! Welcome to our multidisciplinary, holistic, integrative mental health coaching practice. We are open to new ideas from Integrative/Functional Medicine, supportive care for your psychiatric needs, drug free care, and nutritional support. We believe whole body health is the best way to good brain health. Good brain health impacts mental health. We invite you to a different approach to brain health and mental health through coaching and support for referrals to the best functional medicine providers sourcing balance, resolution of inflammation & for all your whole body-mind-spirit healing. We invite you to join us for care.
l am a cross-cultural specialist with a PhD in Medical Anthropology & a Family Nurse Practitioner with 15 years in psychiatric, pain & primary care practice.
Greetings! Welcome to our multidisciplinary, holistic, integrative mental health coaching practice. We are open to new ideas from Integrative/Functional Medicine, supportive care for your psychiatric needs, drug free care, and nutritional support. We believe whole body health is the best way to good brain health. Good brain health impacts mental health. We invite you to a different approach to brain health and mental health through coaching and support for referrals to the best functional medicine providers sourcing balance, resolution of inflammation & for all your whole body-mind-spirit healing. We invite you to join us for care.
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Photo of Admissions Department - The Pointe Malibu Recovery Center
The Pointe Malibu Recovery Center
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
The Pointe Malibu is committed to helping you with your chronic pain, suffering, and substance use. Our staff, headed by Dr. Mel Pohl, with extensive experience in the treatment of chronic pain and co-occurring disorders, implements holistic programs that heal you as a whole person. Working under the umbrella of our comprehensive Integrated Care Alliance, we utilize a dedicated team approach to your recovery. We offer world-class Medical, Clinical and Holistic services to individuals experiencing Substance Abuse and/or Dependence disorders, Mental Health Disorders, and Personality Disorders.
The Pointe Malibu is committed to helping you with your chronic pain, suffering, and substance use. Our staff, headed by Dr. Mel Pohl, with extensive experience in the treatment of chronic pain and co-occurring disorders, implements holistic programs that heal you as a whole person. Working under the umbrella of our comprehensive Integrated Care Alliance, we utilize a dedicated team approach to your recovery. We offer world-class Medical, Clinical and Holistic services to individuals experiencing Substance Abuse and/or Dependence disorders, Mental Health Disorders, and Personality Disorders.
(805) 424-5899 View (805) 424-5899
Photo of Gali Goldwaser, PhD, MS, Psychologist
Gali Goldwaser
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92078  (Online Only)
I am also a pain specialist offering hypnosis/hypnotherapy for chronic pain management (e.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. My practice is focused on anxiety, depression, chronic pain, life transitions, divorce, insomnia, and stress management. I can help you feel better rapidly using a direct, but warm style to help you facilitate change and achieve your goals.
I am also a pain specialist offering hypnosis/hypnotherapy for chronic pain management (e.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. My practice is focused on anxiety, depression, chronic pain, life transitions, divorce, insomnia, and stress management. I can help you feel better rapidly using a direct, but warm style to help you facilitate change and achieve your goals.
(760) 760-2430 View (760) 760-2430
Photo of Jessica Dawn Russell, CHT, CCht, NBC-HWC, BA psy, Coach, Health, CBIT
Jessica Dawn Russell
CHT, CCht, NBC-HWC, BA psy, Coach, Health, CBIT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Living and watching emotional pain turn to mental or physical change is also scary.
I am the founder of both The Hypnotherapy Centers and The HTC Therapy Group. My clients are primarily adults and seniors, yet I work with teens. I have very comfortable and safe offices in Encino, Beverly Hills, & West Los Angeles. I also work remote. I have strong experience working with anxiety, depression, complex circumstances &mental health disorders, including medical, pain and health issues involving nervous, autoimmune, and specific uncommon illness management, addiction, &smoking. I offer strong interactive rapport. My client base involves professionals, entertainment & sports as well as clients in need of creative hours.
Living and watching emotional pain turn to mental or physical change is also scary.
I am the founder of both The Hypnotherapy Centers and The HTC Therapy Group. My clients are primarily adults and seniors, yet I work with teens. I have very comfortable and safe offices in Encino, Beverly Hills, & West Los Angeles. I also work remote. I have strong experience working with anxiety, depression, complex circumstances &mental health disorders, including medical, pain and health issues involving nervous, autoimmune, and specific uncommon illness management, addiction, &smoking. I offer strong interactive rapport. My client base involves professionals, entertainment & sports as well as clients in need of creative hours.
(424) 364-2061 View (424) 364-2061
Photo of Susan B Day, PhD, Psychologist
Susan B Day
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sonora, CA 95370
Specializing in psychotherapy for individuals, couples, families, children, and groups experiencing: ADHD, Anger, Anxiety, Chronic Pain, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, (divorce, illness, loss) Trauma/PTSD.
What We Do... Every person holds unique experiences, stories, and gifts. Due to trauma or other concerns, our experiences can turn into intolerable burdens. When this occurs, our thoughts can become negative, relaying disheartening messages to us. Overwhelmed, our minds and bodies become depressed, anxious, or hurt. Imagine, however, that our suffering carries meaningful messages. Through therapy that seeks to support and honor our life experiences, we can learn to express, befriend, and transform our uncomfortable symptoms. "In order to change what is, we need to give speech to what has been, to imagine what might be." Adrienne Rich
Specializing in psychotherapy for individuals, couples, families, children, and groups experiencing: ADHD, Anger, Anxiety, Chronic Pain, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, (divorce, illness, loss) Trauma/PTSD.
What We Do... Every person holds unique experiences, stories, and gifts. Due to trauma or other concerns, our experiences can turn into intolerable burdens. When this occurs, our thoughts can become negative, relaying disheartening messages to us. Overwhelmed, our minds and bodies become depressed, anxious, or hurt. Imagine, however, that our suffering carries meaningful messages. Through therapy that seeks to support and honor our life experiences, we can learn to express, befriend, and transform our uncomfortable symptoms. "In order to change what is, we need to give speech to what has been, to imagine what might be." Adrienne Rich
(209) 740-4445 View (209) 740-4445
Photo of Natasha Smolkin, PsyD, Psychologist
Natasha Smolkin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Natasha Smolkin is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with patients who struggle with chronic pain, stress and anxiety, addiction, interpersonal challenges, depression, self-esteem issues, and many more of life’s mental wellness obstacles. She utilizes an integrative, strength-based approach, which focuses on cultivating sense-of-efficacy around changes, obstacles, and goals.
Dr. Natasha Smolkin is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with patients who struggle with chronic pain, stress and anxiety, addiction, interpersonal challenges, depression, self-esteem issues, and many more of life’s mental wellness obstacles. She utilizes an integrative, strength-based approach, which focuses on cultivating sense-of-efficacy around changes, obstacles, and goals.
(415) 480-5482 x1050 View (415) 480-5482 x1050
Photo of Vesna Sturman, PhD, Psychologist
Vesna Sturman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, CA 94930
My approach to therapy is client-centered and research-based, meaning that I work with you to find which therapy style is most comfortable for you. Included are cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, "tapping", and mindfulness. These have been proven to be effective treatments for both mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, and physical problems like chronic pain. I also specialize in all forms of trauma. I will help to educate you about the different methods of therapy and the research behind why one method might be more beneficial than another for the issue(s) that brings you to therapy.
My approach to therapy is client-centered and research-based, meaning that I work with you to find which therapy style is most comfortable for you. Included are cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, "tapping", and mindfulness. These have been proven to be effective treatments for both mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, and physical problems like chronic pain. I also specialize in all forms of trauma. I will help to educate you about the different methods of therapy and the research behind why one method might be more beneficial than another for the issue(s) that brings you to therapy.
(415) 413-1077 View (415) 413-1077
Photo of Russell F Fuller, JD, PsyD, DCEP, Psychologist
Russell F Fuller
Psychologist, JD, PsyD, DCEP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121  (Online Only)
He also has considerable experience with all types of anxiety disorders, as well as chronic pain, fibromyalgia, lyme disease, and complex trauma.
Dr. Fuller offers a comprehensive method of psychotherapy which integrates elements from the humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, energy psychology, gestalt, mindfulness, complex trauma, and positive psychology fields. He works with each person individually to construct a useful approach to problem resolution in as efficient and cost-effective a manner as possible. Dr. Fuller also offers brief consulting services which address areas in which a person feels "blocked" or somehow unable to perform at their best, e.g., parenting, financial prosperity, forming healthy relationships, and peak performance in business or sports.
He also has considerable experience with all types of anxiety disorders, as well as chronic pain, fibromyalgia, lyme disease, and complex trauma.
Dr. Fuller offers a comprehensive method of psychotherapy which integrates elements from the humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, energy psychology, gestalt, mindfulness, complex trauma, and positive psychology fields. He works with each person individually to construct a useful approach to problem resolution in as efficient and cost-effective a manner as possible. Dr. Fuller also offers brief consulting services which address areas in which a person feels "blocked" or somehow unable to perform at their best, e.g., parenting, financial prosperity, forming healthy relationships, and peak performance in business or sports.
(858) 215-1921 View (858) 215-1921
Photo of Crystal Burns - Theraville Counseling Services, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theraville Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
We are available to address relational and family problems, as well as such issues as depression, anxiety, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, separation and divorce, parenting problems, stress management, life changing losses, post-traumatic stress, physical illness and pain.
We here at TheraVille Counseling Services, Inc. believe in utilizing an eclectic approach to therapy. The therapy is customized to meet the uniqueness of each and every client. By personalizing the therapeutic experience to best address and respond to the needs of the individual or families, our eclecticism ensures that the most effective therapeutic techniques are integrated into treatment.
We are available to address relational and family problems, as well as such issues as depression, anxiety, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, separation and divorce, parenting problems, stress management, life changing losses, post-traumatic stress, physical illness and pain.
We here at TheraVille Counseling Services, Inc. believe in utilizing an eclectic approach to therapy. The therapy is customized to meet the uniqueness of each and every client. By personalizing the therapeutic experience to best address and respond to the needs of the individual or families, our eclecticism ensures that the most effective therapeutic techniques are integrated into treatment.
(909) 345-8004 View (909) 345-8004
Photo of Jillian Chesley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jillian Chesley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
mental illness -The mind/body connection -Insurance pros and cons.
With a passion for inspiring individuals to claim their own personal excellence, my expertise is in understanding interpersonal dynamics, and successfully coaching individuals, couples, families and groups into reaching their highest self. My background includes a degree in Organizational Communication, a ten year career as a Technical/Corporate Instructor, and fifteen years of coaching/Therapy with a Master of Arts in MFT. Along with my private practice, I teach Zumba (dance inspired group fitness). I look forward to our meeting and becoming part of your journey.
mental illness -The mind/body connection -Insurance pros and cons.
With a passion for inspiring individuals to claim their own personal excellence, my expertise is in understanding interpersonal dynamics, and successfully coaching individuals, couples, families and groups into reaching their highest self. My background includes a degree in Organizational Communication, a ten year career as a Technical/Corporate Instructor, and fifteen years of coaching/Therapy with a Master of Arts in MFT. Along with my private practice, I teach Zumba (dance inspired group fitness). I look forward to our meeting and becoming part of your journey.
(831) 216-6826 View (831) 216-6826
Photo of Amy Austin, RN, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Austin
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Quinta, CA 92253
In your therapy," I WON'T JUST SIT AND NOD." I'll be an active participant in your therapy. I specialize in individual, couple, family and addiction therapy from anxiety, depression to relationship challenges. I can help with a blend of warmth, compassion, guidance utilizing workable tools in a safe therapeutic milieu. I'll support you to identify, explore, and work through those scary, but telling truths. Your truths! Not thoughts and behaviors that you've lived that keep you emotionally stuck, tied to your history, and in pain! Let's work to leave behind patterns of dis-ease, discovering an empowered, real and wonderful YOU!
In your therapy," I WON'T JUST SIT AND NOD." I'll be an active participant in your therapy. I specialize in individual, couple, family and addiction therapy from anxiety, depression to relationship challenges. I can help with a blend of warmth, compassion, guidance utilizing workable tools in a safe therapeutic milieu. I'll support you to identify, explore, and work through those scary, but telling truths. Your truths! Not thoughts and behaviors that you've lived that keep you emotionally stuck, tied to your history, and in pain! Let's work to leave behind patterns of dis-ease, discovering an empowered, real and wonderful YOU!
(760) 978-6992 View (760) 978-6992
Photo of Sean S Baker - The New Beginnings Center - Sean Baker, LMFT, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
The New Beginnings Center - Sean Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Camarillo, CA 93010
I work with people who are addressing the challenges of resolving trauma, whose symptoms often appear as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain and illness. As an LMFT, I hold certifications in both Somatic Experiencing® and gestalt therapy. I specialize in addressing emotional health/well-being and relationship concerns of the queer community. I support my clients' discovery and expression of their gender and sexual identity in ways that honor their unique individuality and sense of self.
I work with people who are addressing the challenges of resolving trauma, whose symptoms often appear as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain and illness. As an LMFT, I hold certifications in both Somatic Experiencing® and gestalt therapy. I specialize in addressing emotional health/well-being and relationship concerns of the queer community. I support my clients' discovery and expression of their gender and sexual identity in ways that honor their unique individuality and sense of self.
(805) 467-7253 x2 View (805) 467-7253 x2
Photo of Rob Goldblatt, PsyD, Psychologist
Rob Goldblatt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Dr. Rob Goldblatt has practiced in clinical psychology for over 30 years specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Treatment, Couples, Parenting, Stress, Panic, Anxiety, phobias, trauma, EMD/R, desensitization. Psychological Issues related to Illness and Injury, His approach is characterized by his clear straightforward answers and distillation of complex issues, caring and warmth, informality, directness, pragmatism, and infectious humor. He has deep and broad experience with in treatment of people of all ages and is as great with small children as he is with people in the mid-life and people exploring the last third of their lives.
Dr. Rob Goldblatt has practiced in clinical psychology for over 30 years specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Treatment, Couples, Parenting, Stress, Panic, Anxiety, phobias, trauma, EMD/R, desensitization. Psychological Issues related to Illness and Injury, His approach is characterized by his clear straightforward answers and distillation of complex issues, caring and warmth, informality, directness, pragmatism, and infectious humor. He has deep and broad experience with in treatment of people of all ages and is as great with small children as he is with people in the mid-life and people exploring the last third of their lives.
(310) 945-2761 View (310) 945-2761
Photo of Nora Taylor, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Nora Taylor
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I also integrate various approaches such as CBT, mindfulness, and specialized mind/body techniques including Sensorimotor psychotherapy and EMDR that provide relief from trauma, pain, & distress.
If you're struggling with marital/relationship problems, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or a traumatic experience(s), I'm here to help. I also provide therapy for those having difficulty coping with a crisis, a stressful life transition, or a painful loss due to a break-up, divorce, or death. As a psychologist, I embrace the traditional values of developing a comfortable and trusting relationship with clients. The relationship I build is my priority and the primary means to help you feel better. Together, we'll help you develop greater self-awareness and a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
I also integrate various approaches such as CBT, mindfulness, and specialized mind/body techniques including Sensorimotor psychotherapy and EMDR that provide relief from trauma, pain, & distress.
If you're struggling with marital/relationship problems, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or a traumatic experience(s), I'm here to help. I also provide therapy for those having difficulty coping with a crisis, a stressful life transition, or a painful loss due to a break-up, divorce, or death. As a psychologist, I embrace the traditional values of developing a comfortable and trusting relationship with clients. The relationship I build is my priority and the primary means to help you feel better. Together, we'll help you develop greater self-awareness and a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
(424) 227-5512 View (424) 227-5512
Photo of Josh Thomas, PhD, Psychologist
Josh Thomas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Dr. Thomas is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in substance addiction, dual diagnosis, depression, anxiety, acute stress, relationship problems, and chronic pain. With an emphasis in living from and connecting to personal values, his approach is highly compassionate, culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and evidenced-based. He integrates CBT and mindfulness-based interventions to help individuals to uncover, discover, and discard thinking and behavioral patterns that are blocking them from living enriched and empowered lives.
Dr. Thomas is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in substance addiction, dual diagnosis, depression, anxiety, acute stress, relationship problems, and chronic pain. With an emphasis in living from and connecting to personal values, his approach is highly compassionate, culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and evidenced-based. He integrates CBT and mindfulness-based interventions to help individuals to uncover, discover, and discard thinking and behavioral patterns that are blocking them from living enriched and empowered lives.
(628) 237-0701 View (628) 237-0701
Photo of Stephanie Anne Hill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Anne Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
I have experience working with terminally ill patients and their families, death and dying issues and coping with illness.
I have 25 years of experience with trauma with adults, children and adolescents assisting them to process their trauma, learn to cope with symptoms that interfere with their lives and learn to live a healthy life and accomplish their dreams and goals. I offer family therapy and couples counseling in my practice.
I have experience working with terminally ill patients and their families, death and dying issues and coping with illness.
I have 25 years of experience with trauma with adults, children and adolescents assisting them to process their trauma, learn to cope with symptoms that interfere with their lives and learn to live a healthy life and accomplish their dreams and goals. I offer family therapy and couples counseling in my practice.
(657) 216-6953 View (657) 216-6953
Photo of Annette M Conway - #1 Psychological Evaluations & Testing Service, PsyD, PhD, Psychologist
#1 Psychological Evaluations & Testing Service
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Bariatric Surgery, Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS), Intrathecal Pain Pump, Peripheral Nerve Stimulator (PNS), Spine Surgery, & More), Legal Capacity and Competency Exams, Neuropsychological Testing, Employment screening, Personality Assessments.
Founded in 1993, Help Therapy has a team of over 50 licensed neuropsychologists and psychologists who offer a wide range of psychological evaluations. For patients who need extra support, therapy is also offered. Patients are matched to a provider of their choice based on their specific needs and preferences. Clinicians work with seniors, adults and youth (age 7+) all throughout California.
Bariatric Surgery, Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS), Intrathecal Pain Pump, Peripheral Nerve Stimulator (PNS), Spine Surgery, & More), Legal Capacity and Competency Exams, Neuropsychological Testing, Employment screening, Personality Assessments.
Founded in 1993, Help Therapy has a team of over 50 licensed neuropsychologists and psychologists who offer a wide range of psychological evaluations. For patients who need extra support, therapy is also offered. Patients are matched to a provider of their choice based on their specific needs and preferences. Clinicians work with seniors, adults and youth (age 7+) all throughout California.
(619) 492-4586 View (619) 492-4586
Photo of Annie Nardella - Pacific Therapy Group, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pacific Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Pacific Pain & Wellness Group treats mental health and pain conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Our mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, we construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Pacific Pain & Wellness Group treats mental health and pain conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Our mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, we construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
(310) 868-2264 View (310) 868-2264
Photo of Maegan c Munro - A Caring Mind, Inc., PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
A Caring Mind, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lancaster, CA 93534
As a licensed marriage and family therapist who has more than 20 years experience, I strive to help my clients face their struggles, develop a strong sense of self and create healthy relationships in their families and marriages. I teach my patients how to heal and become happy individuals because their pain is no longer running their lives due to their cognitive behavioral therapy. I can teach you to overcome depression and anxiety, struggles in marriage, family conflicts, grief and loss, divorce, eating disorders, PTSD, being a victim of abuse and any other struggles you may have.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist who has more than 20 years experience, I strive to help my clients face their struggles, develop a strong sense of self and create healthy relationships in their families and marriages. I teach my patients how to heal and become happy individuals because their pain is no longer running their lives due to their cognitive behavioral therapy. I can teach you to overcome depression and anxiety, struggles in marriage, family conflicts, grief and loss, divorce, eating disorders, PTSD, being a victim of abuse and any other struggles you may have.
(661) 667-4967 View (661) 667-4967
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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.