Chronic Pain Therapists in Florida
Patricia Jo Ryan PhD PA
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285 (Online Only)
I have treated people with difficult-to-treat mental health problems such as, Chronic Pain, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Sleep Disorders, Anger Management, Migraine, TBI conditions, PTSD, and and Stroke recovery using Photobiomodultaion in combination with CBT therapy.
I am a licensed psychologist with more than 30 years experience in the field of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (CBT), a powerful cognitive behavioral technique, and an Associate Fellow of the Albert Ellis Institute. I teach people to become their own happier, healthy self. My practice is focused on active-directive strategies to help people gain stability and mental flexibility. I am actively licensed in both Florida and New York State.
I have treated people with difficult-to-treat mental health problems such as, Chronic Pain, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Sleep Disorders, Anger Management, Migraine, TBI conditions, PTSD, and and Stroke recovery using Photobiomodultaion in combination with CBT therapy.
I am a licensed psychologist with more than 30 years experience in the field of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (CBT), a powerful cognitive behavioral technique, and an Associate Fellow of the Albert Ellis Institute. I teach people to become their own happier, healthy self. My practice is focused on active-directive strategies to help people gain stability and mental flexibility. I am actively licensed in both Florida and New York State.
Lorraine J Blum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NBCCH, MSc, TFT, EMI
Verified Verified
Delray Beach, FL 33445
Clients who are referred, or seek me out are ready for change, they are open to Counseling and new successful approaches. Some clients come to me with pain, sleep disorders, or other serious medical problems, most for marital, family, self esteem & communication issues. Others come with psychosis, anxiety, spirtual confusion & grief. There are many reasons we need to search for a specialist. I promise to be there for you. I am in this field for that reason. I have many tools in my toolbox, alternative as well as traditional and I get results, very often, in just several sessions. We can resolve your issues together. Call me.
Clients who are referred, or seek me out are ready for change, they are open to Counseling and new successful approaches. Some clients come to me with pain, sleep disorders, or other serious medical problems, most for marital, family, self esteem & communication issues. Others come with psychosis, anxiety, spirtual confusion & grief. There are many reasons we need to search for a specialist. I promise to be there for you. I am in this field for that reason. I have many tools in my toolbox, alternative as well as traditional and I get results, very often, in just several sessions. We can resolve your issues together. Call me.
I feel uniquely qualified to help you, if you are physically suffering to identify underlying and unrecognized emotional pain, anger and sadness.
My 30 years of professional experience has largely focused on people with chronic pain. I trained with Dr. John Sarno at the Rusk Institute for Rehabilitation Medicine who authored many books on the mind body connection. Research and clinical experience led him to conclude that most chronic pain s psychophysiologic. Unresolved emotions are the source of these physical manifestations of pain. Helping to identify one's buried feelings as well as develop needed coping skills is central to my work. Additionally, I help my clients to address relationship issues, emotional responses to life transitions, and mood disorders.
I feel uniquely qualified to help you, if you are physically suffering to identify underlying and unrecognized emotional pain, anger and sadness.
My 30 years of professional experience has largely focused on people with chronic pain. I trained with Dr. John Sarno at the Rusk Institute for Rehabilitation Medicine who authored many books on the mind body connection. Research and clinical experience led him to conclude that most chronic pain s psychophysiologic. Unresolved emotions are the source of these physical manifestations of pain. Helping to identify one's buried feelings as well as develop needed coping skills is central to my work. Additionally, I help my clients to address relationship issues, emotional responses to life transitions, and mood disorders.
I am trained in several evidence-based approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP).
I aim to create a space where you can feel empowered to grow through adversity. I am a licensed psychologist with a client-centered, culturally aware, and trauma-informed approach. In sessions, we will explore ways to make meaning of difficult circumstances and overcome barriers to a fulfilling life. I have worked extensively with survivors of trauma, including childhood abuse, military combat, and sex trafficking. I also work with clients who are adjusting to changes in their lifestyles due to injury or illness. My areas of specialization include trauma, chronic pain, and holistic health. I also offer immigration evaluations.
I am trained in several evidence-based approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP).
I aim to create a space where you can feel empowered to grow through adversity. I am a licensed psychologist with a client-centered, culturally aware, and trauma-informed approach. In sessions, we will explore ways to make meaning of difficult circumstances and overcome barriers to a fulfilling life. I have worked extensively with survivors of trauma, including childhood abuse, military combat, and sex trafficking. I also work with clients who are adjusting to changes in their lifestyles due to injury or illness. My areas of specialization include trauma, chronic pain, and holistic health. I also offer immigration evaluations.
My various specialties are providing therapeutic guidance and support from a peer-based & evidence-based lens to those facing chronic pain conditions, chronic illnesses, those who deal with perfectionism, ethnic minorities, first-generation Americans, couples looking to improve their relationship, treating survivors of narcissistic abuse, and complex-PTSD.
If you feel like you just can't seem to find the right therapist for you, give me a call. I will happily provide a free consultation over the phone or virtually, even if I am not the person for you I can guide you in the direction you would like to go! Finding the right therapist for you is half the battle and it is a vulnerable and sometimes challenging process. I respect the fact that picking up the phone or even going on this website is nerve wracking and I know that it took a lot to even get you here. I am an unconventional therapist. I guide treatment with empathy first. I utilize evidence-based techniques unique to your needs.
My various specialties are providing therapeutic guidance and support from a peer-based & evidence-based lens to those facing chronic pain conditions, chronic illnesses, those who deal with perfectionism, ethnic minorities, first-generation Americans, couples looking to improve their relationship, treating survivors of narcissistic abuse, and complex-PTSD.
If you feel like you just can't seem to find the right therapist for you, give me a call. I will happily provide a free consultation over the phone or virtually, even if I am not the person for you I can guide you in the direction you would like to go! Finding the right therapist for you is half the battle and it is a vulnerable and sometimes challenging process. I respect the fact that picking up the phone or even going on this website is nerve wracking and I know that it took a lot to even get you here. I am an unconventional therapist. I guide treatment with empathy first. I utilize evidence-based techniques unique to your needs.
Milo has special expertise in treating people with health and medical problems including eating disorders, chronic pain, chronic illness (heart disease, cancer, MS, etc.
Dr. Karen Milo has been providing a full range of psychological services in the Tampa Bay region for over 25 years. She specializes in cognitive-behavioral therapy and health psychology. Dr. Milo gained extensive health/medical psychology experience at Tampa VA Hospital, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa General Hospital Sleep Disorders program, St. Joseph's Hospital Cardiac Rehabilitation program, and USF's eating disorders, obesity, movement disorders and behavioral medicine programs.
Milo has special expertise in treating people with health and medical problems including eating disorders, chronic pain, chronic illness (heart disease, cancer, MS, etc.
Dr. Karen Milo has been providing a full range of psychological services in the Tampa Bay region for over 25 years. She specializes in cognitive-behavioral therapy and health psychology. Dr. Milo gained extensive health/medical psychology experience at Tampa VA Hospital, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa General Hospital Sleep Disorders program, St. Joseph's Hospital Cardiac Rehabilitation program, and USF's eating disorders, obesity, movement disorders and behavioral medicine programs.
Nancy Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32935
Waitlist for new clients
I have also had specialized experience working with chronic pain, illness, disabilities and other medical issues, and geriatrics.
You know you want to feel better, but you might feel lost or stuck or don't know where or how to begin. Together, we can explore the solutions that are best for your unique life - after all, you're the captain of your ship - I'm here to help you steer it.
I have also had specialized experience working with chronic pain, illness, disabilities and other medical issues, and geriatrics.
You know you want to feel better, but you might feel lost or stuck or don't know where or how to begin. Together, we can explore the solutions that are best for your unique life - after all, you're the captain of your ship - I'm here to help you steer it.
Meryl DeLena
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MVF-CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aventura, FL 33180 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Let's chat! My name is Meryl and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 20 years. I started my career working with children and specialized in child sexual abuse/Trauma. From there I landed my new opportunity to work with all branches of the military to help with Pre and Post deployment issues. I ran a marriage/couples counseling program for the US Marine Corps and worked in Primary Care as a mental health liaison with the US Air Force. Trauma informed care is a specialty. I work with clients who have chronic pain and grief to assist them through the processes of dealing with new realities.
Let's chat! My name is Meryl and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 20 years. I started my career working with children and specialized in child sexual abuse/Trauma. From there I landed my new opportunity to work with all branches of the military to help with Pre and Post deployment issues. I ran a marriage/couples counseling program for the US Marine Corps and worked in Primary Care as a mental health liaison with the US Air Force. Trauma informed care is a specialty. I work with clients who have chronic pain and grief to assist them through the processes of dealing with new realities.
Lisa Zucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hollywood, FL 33021
My specialty is grief & loss of all kinds, including bereavement, loss of health (chronic & terminal illness), loss of a beloved pet, retirement, and moving away from home (and other teen/young adult issues).
My approach to therapy is humanistic and strengths-based. I work with my clients to discover past and present successes and use these to address the challenges they face. I also use elements of narrative therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients recognize that the person is not the problem; the problem is the problem. I am trained in relaxation techniques, including hypnotherapy. I am so fortunate that people choose to share their stories and their lives with me.
My specialty is grief & loss of all kinds, including bereavement, loss of health (chronic & terminal illness), loss of a beloved pet, retirement, and moving away from home (and other teen/young adult issues).
My approach to therapy is humanistic and strengths-based. I work with my clients to discover past and present successes and use these to address the challenges they face. I also use elements of narrative therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients recognize that the person is not the problem; the problem is the problem. I am trained in relaxation techniques, including hypnotherapy. I am so fortunate that people choose to share their stories and their lives with me.
I am a rehabilitation counselor trained to treat medical issues such as physical illness or disability, emotional/mental diagnoses, and addictions and am also licensed as a mental health counselor. I am specially trained to treat post-traumatic stress disorder and trauma, including dissociative disorders. I provide treatment for stress, depression, anxiety, anger, family and relationship issues, and help with parenting issues. I am skilled at diagnosing, especially persons with dual diagnoses or complex medical/psychological ailments.
I am a rehabilitation counselor trained to treat medical issues such as physical illness or disability, emotional/mental diagnoses, and addictions and am also licensed as a mental health counselor. I am specially trained to treat post-traumatic stress disorder and trauma, including dissociative disorders. I provide treatment for stress, depression, anxiety, anger, family and relationship issues, and help with parenting issues. I am skilled at diagnosing, especially persons with dual diagnoses or complex medical/psychological ailments.
Annette Bovee-Akyurek
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LMHC, NCC, PT
Verified Verified
Coral Gables, FL 33146
In mutual respect, we explore several avenues moving towards increased joy in st illness, work, & play.
I am a psychotherapist & physical therapist specializing in therapy for the mind & body from an integrative perspective. I work with adolescents & adults (individual, couple, and/or family sessions). I assist with emotional, psychosocial issues (anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship & self-esteem difficulties, aspects of addiction), & physical issues ( chronic pain, headaches, stomach problems, pre/post natal). I also assist those in self exploration & wellness. I facilitate well-being, drawing from your internal resources towards change. Sessions are specific to your needs, exploring your natural self-corrected process.
In mutual respect, we explore several avenues moving towards increased joy in st illness, work, & play.
I am a psychotherapist & physical therapist specializing in therapy for the mind & body from an integrative perspective. I work with adolescents & adults (individual, couple, and/or family sessions). I assist with emotional, psychosocial issues (anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship & self-esteem difficulties, aspects of addiction), & physical issues ( chronic pain, headaches, stomach problems, pre/post natal). I also assist those in self exploration & wellness. I facilitate well-being, drawing from your internal resources towards change. Sessions are specific to your needs, exploring your natural self-corrected process.
15 Second Videos
Lorraine J Blum
Francine S Fern - Teletherapy For Me Plus
Tanya Bernadette Quarterman
Lisa Angel, Counseling/Supervision LLC
Seigie Kennedy
Lauren Necesario Smith
Magena Ammen
Michelle Garcia
Shayce Johnston
Steven D. Graham
Eileen McDowell
Sunshine Senior Counseling Beth Davalos MSW, LCSW
Amy Rose
Jennifer Ann Counseling Now accepting new clients!
Constance A Stegall
Sharon Marie Theroux
Mind Mechanic Rapid Resolution Therapy
Chelsea Morris
All Well Health Services, Inc
Amanda Pratt
Arvon & Associates in Counseling
Jamie Johnson
Sara Jessica Civetti
Jacqueline Sager
Priscilla Torres
Loryn Panahpour - Psychotherapist
Laura Armide Jeanis
Alyse November
Michel Long
Johnna Stilson
Nilda Perez
Daniel Baughn
Billine Jourdan
Amy Pico
Daniela De Medeiros
Denise Vargas Integrative Therapy
Steve Powers
Cypress Wellness Center
Aryeh Y Blum
Rosalyn J Norensberg
Karmon Sears
Alisha Bowker
Brittany Hundley
Jessica Anne Deeb
Counseling and Wellness Center of South Florida
Eva S. Reichel
Andrea McCrary
Altha Mental Health- EMDR- Roberta DeCastro, LMHC
Margot Escott-Online Therapy
Jason Wasser
Francine S Fern - Teletherapy For Me Plus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QSPSW, QSMFT
Verified Verified
Sun City Center, FL 33573
My individual, group and telehealth sessions target specific issues: Grief, Divorce, Self Esteem, Retirement, Caregiving, Chronic Pain, Aging and Stress Reduction.
Especially now, in this time of crisis if you suffer from depression, anxiety, stress, or feel helpless, there is hope for a more joyful and fulfilling life. I have over 25 years of experience helping people face their fears and feel better. Treatment is personalized for you, with non-judgmental acceptance, validation and support. Family caregivers reduce the stress of caring for others. Therapists, RN's, MD's conquer burnout and compassion fatigue. Need Professional Supervision for State License? Support and Qualified Supervision at reasonable rates.
My individual, group and telehealth sessions target specific issues: Grief, Divorce, Self Esteem, Retirement, Caregiving, Chronic Pain, Aging and Stress Reduction.
Especially now, in this time of crisis if you suffer from depression, anxiety, stress, or feel helpless, there is hope for a more joyful and fulfilling life. I have over 25 years of experience helping people face their fears and feel better. Treatment is personalized for you, with non-judgmental acceptance, validation and support. Family caregivers reduce the stress of caring for others. Therapists, RN's, MD's conquer burnout and compassion fatigue. Need Professional Supervision for State License? Support and Qualified Supervision at reasonable rates.
Say goodbye to traffic and waiting rooms! Two decades of expertise in health and wellness psychology can be brought directly to you through telehealth. I specialize in empowering individuals to overcome emotional hurdles, manage chronic pain, and conquer work-related stress, so they can live healthier, happier lives. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of your health and well-being, transforming your goals into tangible achievements. Let's unlock your true potential – without even leaving your home.
Say goodbye to traffic and waiting rooms! Two decades of expertise in health and wellness psychology can be brought directly to you through telehealth. I specialize in empowering individuals to overcome emotional hurdles, manage chronic pain, and conquer work-related stress, so they can live healthier, happier lives. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of your health and well-being, transforming your goals into tangible achievements. Let's unlock your true potential – without even leaving your home.
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!
Self-help for pain, smoking cessation, craving, anger, tinnitus, stress management, allergies, anxiety and depression.
Having a tough time? Like to take charge of your life in a relaxed manner? Reach enlightenment through self-management of hypnosis, biofeedback, Chakra meditation, acupressure and sound therapy. I see addicted and non-addicted patients to resolve symptomatic complaints. Here's your chance to explore self-healing properties. Sessions $160 (cash/check). Treatment continues until an agreed upon level of relief has been reached. Out of network health insurance available. Use video + teletherapy for most sessions. Please call free for consultations and more details.
Self-help for pain, smoking cessation, craving, anger, tinnitus, stress management, allergies, anxiety and depression.
Having a tough time? Like to take charge of your life in a relaxed manner? Reach enlightenment through self-management of hypnosis, biofeedback, Chakra meditation, acupressure and sound therapy. I see addicted and non-addicted patients to resolve symptomatic complaints. Here's your chance to explore self-healing properties. Sessions $160 (cash/check). Treatment continues until an agreed upon level of relief has been reached. Out of network health insurance available. Use video + teletherapy for most sessions. Please call free for consultations and more details.
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?
I have ample experience working with those living with comorbid medical illness, including cancer, transplant, and pulmonary illness, among others.
The mind and body are intertwined; physical experiences can affect thought patterns, and the brain can send signals to the body that can result in an increase of chronic stress, or thoughts that enhance our well-being. I have specialized training in clinical health psychology. My aim is to treat the whole person, and better understand their individualized experience of illness. Otherwise-healthy individuals may notice that emotional dysregulation may take a toll on physical health through chronic activation of the nervous system. Over time, this can alter sleep, hunger cues, energy, concentration, and emotional wellbeing.
I have ample experience working with those living with comorbid medical illness, including cancer, transplant, and pulmonary illness, among others.
The mind and body are intertwined; physical experiences can affect thought patterns, and the brain can send signals to the body that can result in an increase of chronic stress, or thoughts that enhance our well-being. I have specialized training in clinical health psychology. My aim is to treat the whole person, and better understand their individualized experience of illness. Otherwise-healthy individuals may notice that emotional dysregulation may take a toll on physical health through chronic activation of the nervous system. Over time, this can alter sleep, hunger cues, energy, concentration, and emotional wellbeing.
As the Director of a unique and comprehensive center, we provide individual, couples and family counseling, psychological testing and medication consultation. Counseling is provided for children, adolescents, adults, geriatrics, gays and lesbians. People struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, careeer choices, addictions, chronic pain, weight loss issues, eating disorders can receive help.
As the Director of a unique and comprehensive center, we provide individual, couples and family counseling, psychological testing and medication consultation. Counseling is provided for children, adolescents, adults, geriatrics, gays and lesbians. People struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, careeer choices, addictions, chronic pain, weight loss issues, eating disorders can receive help.
Bob Coates
Counselor, MDiv, LMFT-TN, LPC, TN-VA, LMHC-Fl
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33629 (Online Only)
I am committed to assist my client's personal growth and healing, and improving their relationship with their family members and physicians, especially with behavioral pain management, PTSD, or substance abuse struggles.
I radiate empathy towards the personal challenges of suffering, be it physical, spiritual, or psychological. I also strive to assist your loved ones in comprehending the difficulties and possibilities in your life. With my background in collaborative care within the medical field, I can coordinate your treatment alongside your physician, should you wish. Moreover, I possess a deep understanding of executive professionals, recovering healthcare practitioners, attorneys, and judges. Many patients consistently express how therapy has granted them a renewed sense of consciousness, eradicating feelings of isolation and disconnection.
I am committed to assist my client's personal growth and healing, and improving their relationship with their family members and physicians, especially with behavioral pain management, PTSD, or substance abuse struggles.
I radiate empathy towards the personal challenges of suffering, be it physical, spiritual, or psychological. I also strive to assist your loved ones in comprehending the difficulties and possibilities in your life. With my background in collaborative care within the medical field, I can coordinate your treatment alongside your physician, should you wish. Moreover, I possess a deep understanding of executive professionals, recovering healthcare practitioners, attorneys, and judges. Many patients consistently express how therapy has granted them a renewed sense of consciousness, eradicating feelings of isolation and disconnection.
Chronic Illness and Anxiety/Grief -Dr. Marcy Stern
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34239 (Online Only)
Mindfulness and wellness models, based on my Integrative Medicine background, are the best approaches for managing anxiety, depression, and pain.
I am a Medicare provider. My approach includes present-centered, strength-based therapy. I provide you with practical tools that you will be able to use in your everyday life. I also encourage excellent self-care and advocate for healthy living within our healthcare system. My focus is on helping patients and families who are struggling with anxiety, depression, Cancer, Dementia, and other physical pain and illness. I am a trained Gestalt Therapist and work in the here and now using mindfulness, a combination of wellness models, and solution-focused intention. I believe that psychotherapy is crucial to good health.
Mindfulness and wellness models, based on my Integrative Medicine background, are the best approaches for managing anxiety, depression, and pain.
I am a Medicare provider. My approach includes present-centered, strength-based therapy. I provide you with practical tools that you will be able to use in your everyday life. I also encourage excellent self-care and advocate for healthy living within our healthcare system. My focus is on helping patients and families who are struggling with anxiety, depression, Cancer, Dementia, and other physical pain and illness. I am a trained Gestalt Therapist and work in the here and now using mindfulness, a combination of wellness models, and solution-focused intention. I believe that psychotherapy is crucial to good health.
See more therapy options for Florida
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.