Photo of Janet Robinson, PhD, Psychologist
Janet Robinson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I have extensive experience working with patients who have neurological conditions including brain injury, stroke, brain tumors, spinal pathology, and pain.
I enjoy working collaboratively with individuals who are looking to make positive changes in their self-esteem, relationships, and effectiveness in the world. I look to help them understand the context in which their unhealthy behavior patterns emerged, and then use this understanding to make practical, lasting improvements. I tailor my therapeutic approach to each client based on their personality, needs, and goals. In my 30 years of practicing, I have seen the life-changing work that can be done by a well-matched therapist and client.
I have extensive experience working with patients who have neurological conditions including brain injury, stroke, brain tumors, spinal pathology, and pain.
I enjoy working collaboratively with individuals who are looking to make positive changes in their self-esteem, relationships, and effectiveness in the world. I look to help them understand the context in which their unhealthy behavior patterns emerged, and then use this understanding to make practical, lasting improvements. I tailor my therapeutic approach to each client based on their personality, needs, and goals. In my 30 years of practicing, I have seen the life-changing work that can be done by a well-matched therapist and client.
(847) 613-4339 View (847) 613-4339
Photo of Kristi Brower, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristi Brower
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Freeport, IL 61032
As one of only two psychologists in the far western suburbs who specializes in health psychology, I take a unique approach to treating individuals with medical conditions and chronic pain.
I believe that success occurs when you feel safe and comfortable in therapy, therefore allowing you to utilize your sessions in the most effective way. Having a doctorate degree in clinical psychology (Psy.D.) signifies that I have been trained in numerous therapeutic orientations that are grounded in the latest research in the field of psychology. These approaches include: Psychodynamic Therapy, CBT, EMDR, Relational Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy and many others. This wide variety of training experiences enables me to tailor my treatment approach specifically to your situation, giving you more opportunity to have a successful outcome.
As one of only two psychologists in the far western suburbs who specializes in health psychology, I take a unique approach to treating individuals with medical conditions and chronic pain.
I believe that success occurs when you feel safe and comfortable in therapy, therefore allowing you to utilize your sessions in the most effective way. Having a doctorate degree in clinical psychology (Psy.D.) signifies that I have been trained in numerous therapeutic orientations that are grounded in the latest research in the field of psychology. These approaches include: Psychodynamic Therapy, CBT, EMDR, Relational Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy and many others. This wide variety of training experiences enables me to tailor my treatment approach specifically to your situation, giving you more opportunity to have a successful outcome.
(815) 860-0901 View (815) 860-0901
Photo of Mary Ellen Withers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Ellen Withers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
I provide therapy for adults, couples and families. Clients frequently are struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief and loss. My clients are often going thru a medical crisis, managing chronic pain or are dealing with a family member's illness. I also help clients who are grieving or who have issues with aging parents and need a plan and to deal with feelings of sadness. I am a registered nurse as well as a clinical social worker and have advanced training in medical family therapy. I am a very good listener and assist my clients in finding their strengths to help them move forward in life.
I provide therapy for adults, couples and families. Clients frequently are struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief and loss. My clients are often going thru a medical crisis, managing chronic pain or are dealing with a family member's illness. I also help clients who are grieving or who have issues with aging parents and need a plan and to deal with feelings of sadness. I am a registered nurse as well as a clinical social worker and have advanced training in medical family therapy. I am a very good listener and assist my clients in finding their strengths to help them move forward in life.
(708) 328-3458 View (708) 328-3458
Photo of Carolyn Necas, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Carolyn Necas
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60462
I am especially passionate about working with those struggling with chronic pain and chronic illness.
I utilize a wide array of therapeutic modalities when working with my clients, as I believe in tailoring my approach to each individual person. My clinical experience includes working with adolescents and adults in the following treatment settings: residential living facilities, schools, community agencies, and private practice. I have helped clients address and overcome a broad range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, stress management, low self-esteem, body image concerns, major life transitions, and chronic health concerns.
I am especially passionate about working with those struggling with chronic pain and chronic illness.
I utilize a wide array of therapeutic modalities when working with my clients, as I believe in tailoring my approach to each individual person. My clinical experience includes working with adolescents and adults in the following treatment settings: residential living facilities, schools, community agencies, and private practice. I have helped clients address and overcome a broad range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, stress management, low self-esteem, body image concerns, major life transitions, and chronic health concerns.
(773) 985-8125 View (773) 985-8125
Photo of Lina Liu, PsyD, Psychologist
Lina Liu
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
I also specialize in health psychology and chronic pain.
I am a graduate from the Illinois School Of Professional Psychology. I completed my training at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago's Center for Pain Management (now known as the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab). I have worked in hospitals, outpatient mental health clinics, and long-term care facilities. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have extensive experience treating adults and geriatrics with a wide variety of psychological issues. I treat a variety of conditions such as, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, relationship issues, and life adjustment difficulties. I am also on staff at the Amita neuroscience institute.
I also specialize in health psychology and chronic pain.
I am a graduate from the Illinois School Of Professional Psychology. I completed my training at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago's Center for Pain Management (now known as the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab). I have worked in hospitals, outpatient mental health clinics, and long-term care facilities. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have extensive experience treating adults and geriatrics with a wide variety of psychological issues. I treat a variety of conditions such as, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, relationship issues, and life adjustment difficulties. I am also on staff at the Amita neuroscience institute.
(224) 507-5219 View (224) 507-5219
Photo of Melissa Ann Ferdman, MS, LCPC, CCM, CRC
Melissa Ann Ferdman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, CCM, CRC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
With over three decades of experience and advanced training in aging life care, I provide non-judgemental support in the assistance of pain and chronic illness, disabilities, life transitions, and all-encompassing grief counseling.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming. Are you an older adult struggling with managing your care, grief, or other areas of life? Are you a caregiver struggling to draw boundaries, dealing with grief, or stability? People generalize grief as the loss of a person. But reality is that grief has many forms. From loss of relationships, job loss, divorce, absence or pets. As time goes on and with the support of a licensed clinical professional counselor, these issues can become more manageable with commitment to therapy, a safe place, utilization of strategies and client strength-based approach.
With over three decades of experience and advanced training in aging life care, I provide non-judgemental support in the assistance of pain and chronic illness, disabilities, life transitions, and all-encompassing grief counseling.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming. Are you an older adult struggling with managing your care, grief, or other areas of life? Are you a caregiver struggling to draw boundaries, dealing with grief, or stability? People generalize grief as the loss of a person. But reality is that grief has many forms. From loss of relationships, job loss, divorce, absence or pets. As time goes on and with the support of a licensed clinical professional counselor, these issues can become more manageable with commitment to therapy, a safe place, utilization of strategies and client strength-based approach.
(217) 765-8317 View (217) 765-8317
Photo of Dr. Valerie Maty, LCPC, RPT, ATR-BC, SEP, CADC
Dr. Valerie Maty
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RPT, ATR-BC, SEP, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
If you are a Child, Adolescent, Adult or Parent experiencing a current life challenge, or a chronic medical illness or trauma- HOPE is possible!.
Are you an adult who is trying to manage a traumatic experience, process grief or anxiety/depression at this time in your life? Are you a parent that is looking for an experienced clinician to support you and your child to navigate overwhelming emotions both at home and in school? I am here for you! I am passionate about journeying alongside you with compassion, creating a safe place where you can discover your creative self, and focused upon supporting you as you work towards your unique treatment goals.
If you are a Child, Adolescent, Adult or Parent experiencing a current life challenge, or a chronic medical illness or trauma- HOPE is possible!.
Are you an adult who is trying to manage a traumatic experience, process grief or anxiety/depression at this time in your life? Are you a parent that is looking for an experienced clinician to support you and your child to navigate overwhelming emotions both at home and in school? I am here for you! I am passionate about journeying alongside you with compassion, creating a safe place where you can discover your creative self, and focused upon supporting you as you work towards your unique treatment goals.
(331) 244-4868 x4 View (331) 244-4868 x4
Photo of Megan Rosecrans, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Megan Rosecrans
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102  (Online Only)
I specialize in pain-management, stress-management, weight management, binge-eating disorder and bariatric behavioral changes, living with chronic illness, depression, anxiety and panic related disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, grief, and trauma-related issues.
Depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, and relationship problems are just some of the many reasons people seek out therapy. You may want to learn ways to feel better and reduce uncomfortable emotions, or you may want to just talk through difficult times. I strive to create a safe place and work collaboratively towards your goals. I focus on creating goals, solutions, process one's past and life circumstances, and teach skills and strategies that will reduce uncomfortable and unpleasant emotions. I provide hypnotherapy and biofeedback for pain management and anxiety/panic as added tools to reduce physcial and emotional discomfort.
I specialize in pain-management, stress-management, weight management, binge-eating disorder and bariatric behavioral changes, living with chronic illness, depression, anxiety and panic related disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, grief, and trauma-related issues.
Depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, and relationship problems are just some of the many reasons people seek out therapy. You may want to learn ways to feel better and reduce uncomfortable emotions, or you may want to just talk through difficult times. I strive to create a safe place and work collaboratively towards your goals. I focus on creating goals, solutions, process one's past and life circumstances, and teach skills and strategies that will reduce uncomfortable and unpleasant emotions. I provide hypnotherapy and biofeedback for pain management and anxiety/panic as added tools to reduce physcial and emotional discomfort.
(331) 256-1835 x101 View (331) 256-1835 x101
Photo of Lori A. Jensen, PhD, Psychologist
Lori A. Jensen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Barrington, Illinois, with more than 20 years of experience working with adults of all ages, adolescents and families. Whether discouraged or overwhelmed, therapy can help improve the quality of your life. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, academic and occupational problems, depression, relationship issues, and the challenges of life transition. With a background in health psychology, I also have expertise in helping clients whose illness or pain interfere with daily living, (e.g., migraine and IBS as well as other chronic illnesses such as cancer, fibromyalgia, diabetes and heart disease.)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Barrington, Illinois, with more than 20 years of experience working with adults of all ages, adolescents and families. Whether discouraged or overwhelmed, therapy can help improve the quality of your life. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, academic and occupational problems, depression, relationship issues, and the challenges of life transition. With a background in health psychology, I also have expertise in helping clients whose illness or pain interfere with daily living, (e.g., migraine and IBS as well as other chronic illnesses such as cancer, fibromyalgia, diabetes and heart disease.)
(847) 453-9513 View (847) 453-9513
Photo of Carrie S Thomas - Healing Growth Therapy, PsyD, Psychologist
Healing Growth Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
A special area of interest is chronic pain and proactive pain management.
The therapeutic dialogue is a unique collaboration in which exploration and growth can occur while addressing difficult issues around relationships and life. I work with clients to navigate challenges and explore the parts of themselves that have held them back or limited their ability to make satisfying decisions. Each person coming to therapy is in a different place with different needs. I meet them at that place and work with them to move forward and find healing. My goal is to approach clients with compassionate understanding.
A special area of interest is chronic pain and proactive pain management.
The therapeutic dialogue is a unique collaboration in which exploration and growth can occur while addressing difficult issues around relationships and life. I work with clients to navigate challenges and explore the parts of themselves that have held them back or limited their ability to make satisfying decisions. Each person coming to therapy is in a different place with different needs. I meet them at that place and work with them to move forward and find healing. My goal is to approach clients with compassionate understanding.
(773) 295-7883 View (773) 295-7883
Photo of Deborah Kronenberger, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Deborah Kronenberger
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone seeking support for managing anxiety, depression, chronic illness, or chronic pain, who is also open to exploring mindfulness-based approaches. Whether they are adults, adolescents, or couples, they are looking for a path to greater emotional balance and overall well-being. Their goals may include reducing symptoms, finding healthier ways to cope, and gaining more control over their mental and physical health. As both a clinician and teacher, I offer therapeutic counseling combined with mindfulness practices to provide holistic tools for healing.
My ideal client is someone seeking support for managing anxiety, depression, chronic illness, or chronic pain, who is also open to exploring mindfulness-based approaches. Whether they are adults, adolescents, or couples, they are looking for a path to greater emotional balance and overall well-being. Their goals may include reducing symptoms, finding healthier ways to cope, and gaining more control over their mental and physical health. As both a clinician and teacher, I offer therapeutic counseling combined with mindfulness practices to provide holistic tools for healing.
(847) 505-0795 View (847) 505-0795
Photo of Michelle Kukla, PsyD, Psychologist
Michelle Kukla
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
Feeling better is no longer a mystery. This is fantastic news! We no longer need to be stuck in negative mood states, feel paralyzing levels of anxiety & debilitating emotional/physical pain. Instead, our brain can be transformed when the right combination of therapy skills and techniques are utilized. My 15 years of extensive training as a psychologist has uniquely equipped me with the ability to apply integrative and evidenced-based interventions to achieve maximum results. I blend compassion focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral methods, eastern practices and cutting-edge neuroscience to help you rewire the brain for a healthier you! There is hope!
Feeling better is no longer a mystery. This is fantastic news! We no longer need to be stuck in negative mood states, feel paralyzing levels of anxiety & debilitating emotional/physical pain. Instead, our brain can be transformed when the right combination of therapy skills and techniques are utilized. My 15 years of extensive training as a psychologist has uniquely equipped me with the ability to apply integrative and evidenced-based interventions to achieve maximum results. I blend compassion focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral methods, eastern practices and cutting-edge neuroscience to help you rewire the brain for a healthier you! There is hope!
(847) 906-2513 View (847) 906-2513
Photo of Jenna Bruchauser Sarna, PsyD, Psychologist
Jenna Bruchauser Sarna
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
Waitlist for new clients
***Dr. Bruchauser Sarna is not currently taking therapy patients at this time; however is still conducting neuropsychological evaluations. Dr. Bruchauser-Sarna received her Master's and Doctorate at Midwestern University in Downer's Grove. Her areas of interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, learning disorders, neurological disorders, as well as an array of medical ailments including pain, diabetes, cancer, and weight management. Dr. Bruchauser-Sarna is skilled in neuropsychological/psychological assessment, in addition to individual and couples therapy.
***Dr. Bruchauser Sarna is not currently taking therapy patients at this time; however is still conducting neuropsychological evaluations. Dr. Bruchauser-Sarna received her Master's and Doctorate at Midwestern University in Downer's Grove. Her areas of interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, learning disorders, neurological disorders, as well as an array of medical ailments including pain, diabetes, cancer, and weight management. Dr. Bruchauser-Sarna is skilled in neuropsychological/psychological assessment, in addition to individual and couples therapy.
(779) 324-4167 View (779) 324-4167
Photo of Dr. Benton K Johnson II - Ephphatha 'Be Opened' Consulting Services, Inc., PhD, LCPC, LMHC, CCMHC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Ephphatha 'Be Opened' Consulting Services, Inc.
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LMHC, CCMHC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625  (Online Only)
Clients that come to me for issues regarding their dissatisfaction with their progress on overcoming their challenges in life. Life issues range from traumatic experiences, LGBTQ issues, addictions & substance use disorders, spiritual problems, career problems, chronic illness, child & parenting issues as well as family imbalances. They want change and they want it with someone who can connect with them in real ways that help them know they are cared for, can be confident, and can overcome the challenges that confront them.
Clients that come to me for issues regarding their dissatisfaction with their progress on overcoming their challenges in life. Life issues range from traumatic experiences, LGBTQ issues, addictions & substance use disorders, spiritual problems, career problems, chronic illness, child & parenting issues as well as family imbalances. They want change and they want it with someone who can connect with them in real ways that help them know they are cared for, can be confident, and can overcome the challenges that confront them.
(312) 779-6973 View (312) 779-6973
Photo of Donna Teti, PhD, Psychologist
Donna Teti
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603
Through my work at a rehabilitation hospital, I have gained experience working with the medically ill, those caring for family members with an illness and the bereaved.
In searching for a psychotherapist, it is likely that you have a specific problem in mind. When these problems intensify or linger for long periods of time, they can lead to symptoms of anxiety and/or depression which interfere with your quality of life and sense of well-being. If you are seeking help in overcoming these difficulties, there are two important factors to consider when choosing a therapist. First, it is important that, after a few visits with the therapist, you feel that there is potential to form a strong working alliance.
Through my work at a rehabilitation hospital, I have gained experience working with the medically ill, those caring for family members with an illness and the bereaved.
In searching for a psychotherapist, it is likely that you have a specific problem in mind. When these problems intensify or linger for long periods of time, they can lead to symptoms of anxiety and/or depression which interfere with your quality of life and sense of well-being. If you are seeking help in overcoming these difficulties, there are two important factors to consider when choosing a therapist. First, it is important that, after a few visits with the therapist, you feel that there is potential to form a strong working alliance.
(773) 231-5207 View (773) 231-5207
Photo of Jodie M. NewDelman, PsyD, Psychologist
Jodie M. NewDelman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60610
Who you are is MUCH more than struggle and pain.
Essensuate includes client-centered psychotherapists who each bring their own sensibility. We engage clients ready to face the burden 'stuckness,' deepen awareness, transform their mindset, and change their lives. The practice is dedicated to integrated care and each client's unique context. We offer a safe, confidential, and trusted alliance where our clients can process painful personal issues, difficult experiences, challenging memories, and persistent conflict. We also explore our clients' innate resources and wisdom to provoke meaningful shifts and focus on solutions. tinyurl.com/BookEssensuate
Who you are is MUCH more than struggle and pain.
Essensuate includes client-centered psychotherapists who each bring their own sensibility. We engage clients ready to face the burden 'stuckness,' deepen awareness, transform their mindset, and change their lives. The practice is dedicated to integrated care and each client's unique context. We offer a safe, confidential, and trusted alliance where our clients can process painful personal issues, difficult experiences, challenging memories, and persistent conflict. We also explore our clients' innate resources and wisdom to provoke meaningful shifts and focus on solutions. tinyurl.com/BookEssensuate
(628) 209-6714 View (628) 209-6714
Photo of Jeff Levy, LCSW, CTRS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeff Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTRS
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We often seek therapy because ways we’ve learned to navigate the world aren’t working the way they used to or the way we’d like them to. Sometimes these strategies cause us pain and sometimes they cause pain to others. Our work involves uncovering strategies we’ve learned to survive in the world and understanding where they come from. Once we understand their origin and function, we can develop awareness of when they arise in the present and make choices to navigate differently.
We often seek therapy because ways we’ve learned to navigate the world aren’t working the way they used to or the way we’d like them to. Sometimes these strategies cause us pain and sometimes they cause pain to others. Our work involves uncovering strategies we’ve learned to survive in the world and understanding where they come from. Once we understand their origin and function, we can develop awareness of when they arise in the present and make choices to navigate differently.
(773) 717-2962 View (773) 717-2962
Photo of Julleon Garrison, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julleon Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than " illness."
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than " illness."
(312) 262-2473 View (312) 262-2473
Photo of Ruth E Field, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth E Field
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northfield, IL 60093
Life can feel overwhelming when you're faced with loss or change. As much as you try to adjust, it can be scary and confusing to realize that life isn't turning out the way you had planned. Life stress -- such as divorce or relationship loss, death of a loved one, job loss, illness, caregiving -- happens to most of us at some point and it can seem nearly impossible to bounce back from such heartache.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're faced with loss or change. As much as you try to adjust, it can be scary and confusing to realize that life isn't turning out the way you had planned. Life stress -- such as divorce or relationship loss, death of a loved one, job loss, illness, caregiving -- happens to most of us at some point and it can seem nearly impossible to bounce back from such heartache.
(847) 260-9463 View (847) 260-9463
Photo of Rashid A. Raja, PsyD, BCPC, HSPP, Psychologist
Rashid A. Raja
Psychologist, PsyD, BCPC, HSPP
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
THE SKYPE TREATMENT IS OFFERED AT EXTREMELY LOW FEE Emotional stress resulting from our own erroneous beliefs, problematic relationships, and stressful life circumstances can compromise our mental health. I firmly believe that my pragmatic therapeutic style and clinically proven treatment approaches can be highly instrumental in helping you learn effective ways to resolve your emotional pain, and develop practical skills and effective coping styles to ultimately take charge of your own mental health. The central focus of my practice is the treatment of Relationship Issues including Marital/Couples' Issues and Parent-Child Conflicts, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and Anger Control Problems.
THE SKYPE TREATMENT IS OFFERED AT EXTREMELY LOW FEE Emotional stress resulting from our own erroneous beliefs, problematic relationships, and stressful life circumstances can compromise our mental health. I firmly believe that my pragmatic therapeutic style and clinically proven treatment approaches can be highly instrumental in helping you learn effective ways to resolve your emotional pain, and develop practical skills and effective coping styles to ultimately take charge of your own mental health. The central focus of my practice is the treatment of Relationship Issues including Marital/Couples' Issues and Parent-Child Conflicts, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and Anger Control Problems.
(708) 942-8959 View (708) 942-8959
1
...
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.