Chronic Pain Therapists in Orlando, FL

Photo of Joel Kahn, MD
Joel Kahn
MD
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
Struggling with weight, chronic pain, insomnia, stress, Covid fatigue, professional burnout, unhealthy habits and anxiety? Are you tired of feeling that clinicians don’t really understand your issues and provide little support? I empower people to take back control of their lives when dealing with seemingly insurmountable problems that most clinicians just throw drugs at. My goals are to help guide you through a process of self-discovery and then active participation in changing your life.
Struggling with weight, chronic pain, insomnia, stress, Covid fatigue, professional burnout, unhealthy habits and anxiety? Are you tired of feeling that clinicians don’t really understand your issues and provide little support? I empower people to take back control of their lives when dealing with seemingly insurmountable problems that most clinicians just throw drugs at. My goals are to help guide you through a process of self-discovery and then active participation in changing your life.
(321) 414-8721 View (321) 414-8721
Photo of Lisa Marie Beilman, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Lisa Marie Beilman
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32819
I have worked in the medical profession for over 40 years and have a great deal of experience with chronic illness and medical issues.
Are you in a place in your life where what used to work no longer works? Are your relationships struggling? I can help. I work with clients to become more self-aware, improve communication skills, and have an overall sense of increased well-being. I specialize in couples and adult counseling. I believe the most important factor in counseling is to provide an environment that is safe, confidential, and free of judgment to begin exploring, expressing, and making positive changes in your life.
I have worked in the medical profession for over 40 years and have a great deal of experience with chronic illness and medical issues.
Are you in a place in your life where what used to work no longer works? Are your relationships struggling? I can help. I work with clients to become more self-aware, improve communication skills, and have an overall sense of increased well-being. I specialize in couples and adult counseling. I believe the most important factor in counseling is to provide an environment that is safe, confidential, and free of judgment to begin exploring, expressing, and making positive changes in your life.
(407) 340-5312 View (407) 340-5312
Photo of Virginia Alejandra Grundler - Virginia Grundler, PsyD, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Virginia Grundler, PsyD, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32828
Psychotherapy practice in East Orlando, FL, in SPANISH & ENGLISH in person or remotely! Life circumstances, such as chronic pain, chronic medical conditions, the loss of a job, a divorce, and others, can be challenging, and having someone to sort things out can be liberating. Life may present as if there is no purpose anymore. These are normal responses but you do not have to stay this way, no matter what the circumstances are. I offer you the opportunity to meet with me individually in a trusting and safe environment with best qualified therapeutic approaches to uncover the potential to heal and increase your functionality.
Psychotherapy practice in East Orlando, FL, in SPANISH & ENGLISH in person or remotely! Life circumstances, such as chronic pain, chronic medical conditions, the loss of a job, a divorce, and others, can be challenging, and having someone to sort things out can be liberating. Life may present as if there is no purpose anymore. These are normal responses but you do not have to stay this way, no matter what the circumstances are. I offer you the opportunity to meet with me individually in a trusting and safe environment with best qualified therapeutic approaches to uncover the potential to heal and increase your functionality.
(321) 204-7981 View (321) 204-7981
Photo of Darlene Treese, PhD, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Darlene Treese
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32835  (Online Only)
Are you suffering from DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, ANGER or ADDICTIONS? Is it interfering with your relationships and quality of life? High achievers know that the Sub-conscious mind holds negative thoughts that sabotage positive changes. Let's eliminate these roadblocks so everything works for you and nothing works against you. Hypnosis - approved by the AMA in 1958 - is effective for Anxiety, Depression, Pain, Migraines, IBS, Weight, Negative habits and Stress Management. My treatments are effective to overcome fears/phobias and improve self confidence, health and well-being. Let me help you become more focused, relaxed, healthy and successful!
Are you suffering from DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, ANGER or ADDICTIONS? Is it interfering with your relationships and quality of life? High achievers know that the Sub-conscious mind holds negative thoughts that sabotage positive changes. Let's eliminate these roadblocks so everything works for you and nothing works against you. Hypnosis - approved by the AMA in 1958 - is effective for Anxiety, Depression, Pain, Migraines, IBS, Weight, Negative habits and Stress Management. My treatments are effective to overcome fears/phobias and improve self confidence, health and well-being. Let me help you become more focused, relaxed, healthy and successful!
(407) 278-1598 View (407) 278-1598
Photo of Louis F. Damis, PhD, ABPP, FASCH, Psychologist
Louis F. Damis
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, FASCH
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32807  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Damis is a Diplomate with the American Board of Professional Psychology, a Fellow of both the American Academy of Clinical Health Psychology & the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance, and holds ASCH Certification in Clinical Hypnosis with Consultant Status. He established Integrative Health Psychology, PA in 2003 to advance the comprehensive care of physical & emotional conditions that often become persistent problems due to lack of coordinated psychological & medical treatment. In addition to teaching hypnosis at national conferences, he has also conducted research & written on topics of trauma, persistent pain, neuropsychological functioning in medically ill individuals, aging, & psychotherapy process.
Dr. Damis is a Diplomate with the American Board of Professional Psychology, a Fellow of both the American Academy of Clinical Health Psychology & the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance, and holds ASCH Certification in Clinical Hypnosis with Consultant Status. He established Integrative Health Psychology, PA in 2003 to advance the comprehensive care of physical & emotional conditions that often become persistent problems due to lack of coordinated psychological & medical treatment. In addition to teaching hypnosis at national conferences, he has also conducted research & written on topics of trauma, persistent pain, neuropsychological functioning in medically ill individuals, aging, & psychotherapy process.
(407) 890-0091 View (407) 890-0091
Photo of Nick K Clark - Nick Clark - Chronic Pain Chronic Illness Informed, MA, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nick Clark - Chronic Pain Chronic Illness Informed
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801
I specialize in helping individuals through all transitional stages of life, helping navigate through the complexities of chronic illness and pain, ADHD, ASD, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I hope to help ease the overwhelming fear and life changes you may be feeling. My approach is chronic illness and chronic pain affirming, neurodivergent, queer-affirming, non-monogamous affirming, chronic illness/ pain affirming, and sex-positive affirming. I want to assist you with harm reduction, see clients as they are and who they will become and help create a safe space to help build tools just for you.
I specialize in helping individuals through all transitional stages of life, helping navigate through the complexities of chronic illness and pain, ADHD, ASD, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I hope to help ease the overwhelming fear and life changes you may be feeling. My approach is chronic illness and chronic pain affirming, neurodivergent, queer-affirming, non-monogamous affirming, chronic illness/ pain affirming, and sex-positive affirming. I want to assist you with harm reduction, see clients as they are and who they will become and help create a safe space to help build tools just for you.
(352) 414-2503 View (352) 414-2503
Photo of Dr. Liz Gruber, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Liz Gruber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801
I specialize in eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression & pain.
Whether from childhood sexual abuse, debilitating chronic pain or other life experiences, oftentimes we experience deep feelings of not being "enough" that shows up in different ways such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, & much more. Regardless of our identities, a lot of us are taught that vulnerability is a weakness and self-silencing “should be” prioritized. Avoidance of emotional pain can then become very natural whether conscious or not, but is costly to your physical & mental well-being. Want to reclaim your life from Anxiety, Pain, Illness, & Depression? Are you ready to heal your relationship with Food & Your Body?
I specialize in eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression & pain.
Whether from childhood sexual abuse, debilitating chronic pain or other life experiences, oftentimes we experience deep feelings of not being "enough" that shows up in different ways such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, & much more. Regardless of our identities, a lot of us are taught that vulnerability is a weakness and self-silencing “should be” prioritized. Avoidance of emotional pain can then become very natural whether conscious or not, but is costly to your physical & mental well-being. Want to reclaim your life from Anxiety, Pain, Illness, & Depression? Are you ready to heal your relationship with Food & Your Body?
(954) 866-5158 View (954) 866-5158
Photo of Scott Donald Bush, PhD, MS, LMHC, Rev, Counselor
Scott Donald Bush
Counselor, PhD, MS, LMHC, Rev
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32826
EMDR Therapy is used trauma, pain, and migraines.
I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and Christian Sex Therapist. Specialities: EMDR, trauma, chronic pain, panic attacks, obesity, and sex therapy. Video sessions available. If you need help, call me, days, weekend, and evenings. I answer off hours. I give very personalized care, and even home sessions. Go to the national website HealthGrades.com for patient feedback and to review providers. I have all 5 stars, highest rating in Florida. Weekday and Sunday appointments are $150, Sex Therapy sessions are $150, and "IN HOME" sessions are $300 1hr, and $450 for 2hrs. Sliding scale for friend or Dr. referrals.
EMDR Therapy is used trauma, pain, and migraines.
I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and Christian Sex Therapist. Specialities: EMDR, trauma, chronic pain, panic attacks, obesity, and sex therapy. Video sessions available. If you need help, call me, days, weekend, and evenings. I answer off hours. I give very personalized care, and even home sessions. Go to the national website HealthGrades.com for patient feedback and to review providers. I have all 5 stars, highest rating in Florida. Weekday and Sunday appointments are $150, Sex Therapy sessions are $150, and "IN HOME" sessions are $300 1hr, and $450 for 2hrs. Sliding scale for friend or Dr. referrals.
(407) 230-4949 View (407) 230-4949
Photo of Kevin Mertens, PhD, Psychologist
Kevin Mertens
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32827  (Online Only)
My health and wellness approach to coping addresses treatment adherence, sleep fidelity, partner-relational problems, appetite, chronic discomfort/ pain, hope/spirituality, prescription medication abuse prevention, recovery, and self image.
I believe mental health is not just about managing symptoms. It is about developing a resilient inner self and fostering healthy relationships. It's about prolonging the impact of simple joys and meaningful moments to enhance our quality of life! My health and wellness program is a special subset of the wide range of conditions I treat
My health and wellness approach to coping addresses treatment adherence, sleep fidelity, partner-relational problems, appetite, chronic discomfort/ pain, hope/spirituality, prescription medication abuse prevention, recovery, and self image.
I believe mental health is not just about managing symptoms. It is about developing a resilient inner self and fostering healthy relationships. It's about prolonging the impact of simple joys and meaningful moments to enhance our quality of life! My health and wellness program is a special subset of the wide range of conditions I treat
(321) 325-4932 View (321) 325-4932
Photo of Summin Dinsa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Summin Dinsa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32819  (Online Only)
My own experiences with chronic illness and my training in trauma-informed approaches to therapy allows me to connect with my clients on a deeper level.
I am accepting NEW clients and I am proud of you for being here! I specialize in supporting people impacted by chronic illness and trauma, and all the other things that come with that, including anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. Through combining a psychodynamic and somatic approach to therapy, I will walk alongside you in your healing journey. As someone who has been on the other side of therapy, I always found it important to feel safe. Together we will figure out what safety looks like for you and I will always do my best to create an environment for you learn and grow within.
My own experiences with chronic illness and my training in trauma-informed approaches to therapy allows me to connect with my clients on a deeper level.
I am accepting NEW clients and I am proud of you for being here! I specialize in supporting people impacted by chronic illness and trauma, and all the other things that come with that, including anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. Through combining a psychodynamic and somatic approach to therapy, I will walk alongside you in your healing journey. As someone who has been on the other side of therapy, I always found it important to feel safe. Together we will figure out what safety looks like for you and I will always do my best to create an environment for you learn and grow within.
(321) 486-8960 View (321) 486-8960
Photo of Tara Travia, PhD, Psychologist
Tara Travia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32809  (Online Only)
Freedom from crippling anxiety, the pain of the past, and the overwhelm of living in a complex world is possible.
Everyone thinks you have it all together, but you feel like one slip and it will all fall apart. You have worked so hard for the amazing life you have and yet, the peace you “should” feel seems just out of reach. Perhaps the past seems to sneak up on you, and despite your best efforts, you’re more anxious, not less. Peace has eluded you and the stress of being successful and “having it all” hasn’t allowed time for the growth and change that you long for. If you want to find lasting balance amidst the chaos, I am here to help. With insightful exploration and practical strategies, I can help you find a better way forward.
Freedom from crippling anxiety, the pain of the past, and the overwhelm of living in a complex world is possible.
Everyone thinks you have it all together, but you feel like one slip and it will all fall apart. You have worked so hard for the amazing life you have and yet, the peace you “should” feel seems just out of reach. Perhaps the past seems to sneak up on you, and despite your best efforts, you’re more anxious, not less. Peace has eluded you and the stress of being successful and “having it all” hasn’t allowed time for the growth and change that you long for. If you want to find lasting balance amidst the chaos, I am here to help. With insightful exploration and practical strategies, I can help you find a better way forward.
(724) 602-9776 View (724) 602-9776
Photo of Lauren Gulla, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCTP-II, Counselor
Lauren Gulla
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32804
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working trauma survivors, particularly those who have endured various forms of trauma such as childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, emotional abuse, verbal abuse, and physical abuse as well as chronic illness and medical trauma. I utilize various trauma-informed therapies to ensure that my clients receive the empathetic care they need to navigate these complex challenges. I recognize that every person's journey is unique and rely on a person-centered approach to support clients. My approach goes beyond addressing symptoms; I empower clients to build understanding of their triggers and coping mechanisms.
I specialize in working trauma survivors, particularly those who have endured various forms of trauma such as childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, emotional abuse, verbal abuse, and physical abuse as well as chronic illness and medical trauma. I utilize various trauma-informed therapies to ensure that my clients receive the empathetic care they need to navigate these complex challenges. I recognize that every person's journey is unique and rely on a person-centered approach to support clients. My approach goes beyond addressing symptoms; I empower clients to build understanding of their triggers and coping mechanisms.
(407) 205-7616 View (407) 205-7616
Photo of Grace Marlyn Cruz, LMHC, Counselor
Grace Marlyn Cruz
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32839
Hello! My name is Grace Cruz and I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with a passion for helping people fulfill their purpose in life. For over 7 years, I have taken an integrative approach and collaborate with my clients using different techniques to help them achieve their mental health goals in areas such as anxiety, chronic pain, codependency, coping skills, and depression. I am a compassionate therapist who seeks the potential in others. My theoretical approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Attachment Theory.
Hello! My name is Grace Cruz and I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with a passion for helping people fulfill their purpose in life. For over 7 years, I have taken an integrative approach and collaborate with my clients using different techniques to help them achieve their mental health goals in areas such as anxiety, chronic pain, codependency, coping skills, and depression. I am a compassionate therapist who seeks the potential in others. My theoretical approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Attachment Theory.
(305) 419-2920 View (305) 419-2920
Photo of Susan Hansen-Engelhard, LMHC, Counselor
Susan Hansen-Engelhard
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32819
Are you dealing with trauma, anxiety, difficult childhood experiences, problematic family dynamics, marriage or relationship issues, divorce, difficulty in making decisions, depression, military/abuse trauma, pain management, and unhealthy relationships? Are you dissatisfied with your career path? Is military life or military family life part of your clinical picture?
Are you dealing with trauma, anxiety, difficult childhood experiences, problematic family dynamics, marriage or relationship issues, divorce, difficulty in making decisions, depression, military/abuse trauma, pain management, and unhealthy relationships? Are you dissatisfied with your career path? Is military life or military family life part of your clinical picture?
(407) 901-5693 View (407) 901-5693
Photo of Neytiri (Melissa) Marrs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neytiri (Melissa) Marrs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32806
Hello and congratulations on deciding to improve your life. No matter what stage you've reached or how overwhelmed you might feel, it's never too late to find a sense of peace and joy. If you're reading this profile, you are likely feeling a need for change. Or perhaps you hear a voice whispering, "There has to be something more". Life is too short to live with pain, fear, loneliness, and confusion. Just because you can't see how to get there doesn't mean it can't be done. I would be honored to walk this path of rediscovery with you.
Hello and congratulations on deciding to improve your life. No matter what stage you've reached or how overwhelmed you might feel, it's never too late to find a sense of peace and joy. If you're reading this profile, you are likely feeling a need for change. Or perhaps you hear a voice whispering, "There has to be something more". Life is too short to live with pain, fear, loneliness, and confusion. Just because you can't see how to get there doesn't mean it can't be done. I would be honored to walk this path of rediscovery with you.
(321) 517-4433 View (321) 517-4433
Photo of Anita Vargas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Vargas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32817
Accepting new clients as of 11/5/24. I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience helping clients of all ages cope with the numerous stressors that life can hand us. I am passionate about helping clients to manage more effectively with anxiety, depression, pain management, medical issues, relationships, work issues, grief, memory issues, and trauma by creating a safe, validating environment where clients can heal and grow. Having worked for years in hospitals, facilities and in private practice, I have a deep understanding of the many issues that we can face in our lifetime .
Accepting new clients as of 11/5/24. I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience helping clients of all ages cope with the numerous stressors that life can hand us. I am passionate about helping clients to manage more effectively with anxiety, depression, pain management, medical issues, relationships, work issues, grief, memory issues, and trauma by creating a safe, validating environment where clients can heal and grow. Having worked for years in hospitals, facilities and in private practice, I have a deep understanding of the many issues that we can face in our lifetime .
(407) 863-6989 View (407) 863-6989
Photo of Robbi Zeper, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robbi Zeper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32827  (Online Only)
You don’t have to keep living in pain.
With over 25 years of experience, I’ve helped thousands of clients move forward from the past and achieve emotional healing. I specialize in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), EMDR, and CBT to help you overcome anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, OCD, phobias, and intrusive memories. Imagine carrying the weight of trauma for years and having it lifted in just 2 sessions. My expertise lies in reprogramming distressing memories stored in your brain so you no longer feel triggered or experience emotional and physical reactions. You’ll finally be able to let it go!
You don’t have to keep living in pain.
With over 25 years of experience, I’ve helped thousands of clients move forward from the past and achieve emotional healing. I specialize in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), EMDR, and CBT to help you overcome anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, OCD, phobias, and intrusive memories. Imagine carrying the weight of trauma for years and having it lifted in just 2 sessions. My expertise lies in reprogramming distressing memories stored in your brain so you no longer feel triggered or experience emotional and physical reactions. You’ll finally be able to let it go!
(407) 634-1317 View (407) 634-1317
Photo of Steve Powers, LMHC, Counselor
Steve Powers
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32817
Utilizing compassion and empathy to create a safe space that meets you where you are, I enjoy working with those dealing with PTSD, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, spiritual concerns, medical illness, self doubt, grief and loss, addictions, and men’s issues.
No matter what stage you've reached or how overwhelmed you might feel, it's never too late to find a sense of peace and joy. Life can be messy and you cannot change your past, but I believe you can find hope for a better future. I’d love to come alongside you through whatever challenges you are facing and help you live life to the fullest.
Utilizing compassion and empathy to create a safe space that meets you where you are, I enjoy working with those dealing with PTSD, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, spiritual concerns, medical illness, self doubt, grief and loss, addictions, and men’s issues.
No matter what stage you've reached or how overwhelmed you might feel, it's never too late to find a sense of peace and joy. Life can be messy and you cannot change your past, but I believe you can find hope for a better future. I’d love to come alongside you through whatever challenges you are facing and help you live life to the fullest.
(407) 901-5846 View (407) 901-5846
Photo of Vindeira Resaul-Maraj - Bioindividual Health & Wellness | RN Health Coach , RN, BC-FNHC
Bioindividual Health & Wellness | RN Health Coach
RN, BC-FNHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32827  (Online Only)
With this experience, I can assist you in learning more about your illness and how to enhance your overall well-being.
If you are experiencing health issues that affect your physical and mental well-being, taking a functional medicine and functional nutrition approach may be beneficial to you. What is functional medicine/nutrition? This is learning how food, stress, environmental toxins, and genetics, play a role in your overall health and well-being. When you work with me, you will learn how to identify which foods work for your body, learn how to use food as medicine, and understand how specific foods can cause your symptoms and lead to disease. At the same time, you will also work on stress management, sleep hygiene, exercise tips, and more.
With this experience, I can assist you in learning more about your illness and how to enhance your overall well-being.
If you are experiencing health issues that affect your physical and mental well-being, taking a functional medicine and functional nutrition approach may be beneficial to you. What is functional medicine/nutrition? This is learning how food, stress, environmental toxins, and genetics, play a role in your overall health and well-being. When you work with me, you will learn how to identify which foods work for your body, learn how to use food as medicine, and understand how specific foods can cause your symptoms and lead to disease. At the same time, you will also work on stress management, sleep hygiene, exercise tips, and more.
(407) 809-1596 View (407) 809-1596
Photo of Patricia Genao - Sunshine Senior Counseling- Patricia Genao, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunshine Senior Counseling- Patricia Genao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32806
Accepting new clients as of 10/24/2024. As a therapist for over 25 years, I have helped people from diverse populations from teenagers to geriatric individuals feel and live better. I have experience in helping clients with reducing stress and anxiety, resolving family conflicts, increasing communication within relationships and families, and working with individuals with PTSD, trauma and abuse, older adults coping with medical illness, dementia for both the client and care giver, transitions, grief and loss.
Accepting new clients as of 10/24/2024. As a therapist for over 25 years, I have helped people from diverse populations from teenagers to geriatric individuals feel and live better. I have experience in helping clients with reducing stress and anxiety, resolving family conflicts, increasing communication within relationships and families, and working with individuals with PTSD, trauma and abuse, older adults coping with medical illness, dementia for both the client and care giver, transitions, grief and loss.
(321) 270-7824 View (321) 270-7824
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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.