Chronic Pain Therapists in Illinois
![Photo of Kristi Brower, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5506bce5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals 18-65 with a wide variety of concerns including: depression, anxiety, grief, loss, PTSD, relationship issues, divorce, infertility, still births, cancer, chronic pain, and other medical and mental diagnoses.
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.
I work with individuals 18-65 with a wide variety of concerns including: depression, anxiety, grief, loss, PTSD, relationship issues, divorce, infertility, still births, cancer, chronic pain, and other medical and mental diagnoses.
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.
![Photo of Andrew Beatty, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7564a7a6-d38a-4dd7-8373-01ed4a60f8ad/2/320x400.jpeg)
When working with clients with chronic illness Dr.
Dr. Andrew Beatty has over a decade of experience assisting adults and adolescents with life, work, and health-related issues. He specializes in the field of health psychology with an emphasis on the management of chronic pain and illness. Dr. Beatty believes that “feeling sick” provides an ideal opportunity for individuals to recognize that there is something more going on. Therapy can help discover underlying behavioral health concerns that may be manifesting through physical symptoms or pain. However, Dr. Beatty encourages individuals to be proactive with their behavioral health before physical manifestations develop.
When working with clients with chronic illness Dr.
Dr. Andrew Beatty has over a decade of experience assisting adults and adolescents with life, work, and health-related issues. He specializes in the field of health psychology with an emphasis on the management of chronic pain and illness. Dr. Beatty believes that “feeling sick” provides an ideal opportunity for individuals to recognize that there is something more going on. Therapy can help discover underlying behavioral health concerns that may be manifesting through physical symptoms or pain. However, Dr. Beatty encourages individuals to be proactive with their behavioral health before physical manifestations develop.
![Photo of Deborah Kronenberger, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6fe823-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced clinician and teacher who treats and teaches adults, adolescents and couples using a mindfulness based counseling model. I specialize in working with those who struggle with anxiety, depression, chronic illness and pain. I also teach classes in meditation and yoga.
I am an experienced clinician and teacher who treats and teaches adults, adolescents and couples using a mindfulness based counseling model. I specialize in working with those who struggle with anxiety, depression, chronic illness and pain. I also teach classes in meditation and yoga.
![Photo of Felix Laevsky](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/541dc977-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been specializing in Biofeedback since 2004, with a primary focus on chronic pain, anxiety and stress management. Through the use of Biofeedback techniques and technology, relaxation, breathing, and other mind-body techniques, I have helped many people struggling with stress, pain and pain-related symptoms such as sleep problems, anxiety, muscle tension and breathing difficulties. Biofeedback principles and technology are amazing! If you would like to know how stress affects your body you can see it in your own " biofeedback physiological mirror" which works similar to your bathroom mirror.
I have been specializing in Biofeedback since 2004, with a primary focus on chronic pain, anxiety and stress management. Through the use of Biofeedback techniques and technology, relaxation, breathing, and other mind-body techniques, I have helped many people struggling with stress, pain and pain-related symptoms such as sleep problems, anxiety, muscle tension and breathing difficulties. Biofeedback principles and technology are amazing! If you would like to know how stress affects your body you can see it in your own " biofeedback physiological mirror" which works similar to your bathroom mirror.
![Photo of Melissa Ann Ferdman, MS, LCPC, CCM, CRC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/088e4d8d-c85e-4a88-a53c-6968ee4b2a95/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Benton K Johnson II - Ephphatha 'Be Opened' Consulting Services, Inc., PhD, LCPC, LMHC, CCMHC, BC-TMH, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3613b21c-50e3-4796-81f5-37eb9c32fdc0/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Kelly Hamoudah, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56ff6714-36fa-45a6-a65f-0997b115749b/2/320x400.jpeg)
My specialties are anxiety, depression, daily stress, as well as the psychosocial impact and mental health management of chronic pain and medical conditions.
Hello, I’m Dr. Kelly Hamoudah! In my work, I believe that establishing a safe space and building rapport is the first step towards the healing process. If you’re looking for help from a psychologist who uses evidence based interventions, is warm and friendly, and cares about you reaching your goals, then you’re in the right spot.
My specialties are anxiety, depression, daily stress, as well as the psychosocial impact and mental health management of chronic pain and medical conditions.
Hello, I’m Dr. Kelly Hamoudah! In my work, I believe that establishing a safe space and building rapport is the first step towards the healing process. If you’re looking for help from a psychologist who uses evidence based interventions, is warm and friendly, and cares about you reaching your goals, then you’re in the right spot.
![Photo of Dr. Tracy Aneziris, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2714b81-4850-4dd4-a0a7-4d955403f293/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tracy Aneziris
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60168 (Online Only)
I have specific training in treating depression, anxiety, chronic pain and illness, grief and loss, first responder stress, adjustment disorders in adults, and disruptive behavior and attention problems in children.
I view therapy as a journey for self-exploration and positive change. In sessions, I work as a teammate and motivator for my clients to reach their goals and improve their quality of life. My success in helping clients comes from gaining a deeper understanding about client experiences, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In addition, I help clients seek awareness about how their emotional experiences impact their biological health and functioning.
I have specific training in treating depression, anxiety, chronic pain and illness, grief and loss, first responder stress, adjustment disorders in adults, and disruptive behavior and attention problems in children.
I view therapy as a journey for self-exploration and positive change. In sessions, I work as a teammate and motivator for my clients to reach their goals and improve their quality of life. My success in helping clients comes from gaining a deeper understanding about client experiences, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In addition, I help clients seek awareness about how their emotional experiences impact their biological health and functioning.
![Photo of Allie Szeliga, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f1478d1-8110-4c58-aa50-1b13f4a272e2/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals with PTSD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, chronic pain, and extensive abuse history.
I would be honored to assist you in tuning into your body’s unique ability to heal from traumatic experiences. Perhaps you are realizing that you have been avoiding some much needed healing because of fear that it will be deeply painful. Luckily, that does not have to be the case. I firmly believe you can get through life with increased resiliency and confidence in your ability to not only survive, but ultimately thrive.
I work with individuals with PTSD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, chronic pain, and extensive abuse history.
I would be honored to assist you in tuning into your body’s unique ability to heal from traumatic experiences. Perhaps you are realizing that you have been avoiding some much needed healing because of fear that it will be deeply painful. Luckily, that does not have to be the case. I firmly believe you can get through life with increased resiliency and confidence in your ability to not only survive, but ultimately thrive.
![Photo of Meg Kelleher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/571012cf-57ee-49ef-9d21-9022aea034a0/3/320x400.png)
I provide individual counseling with specializations including trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, pain management, gender identity, sexuality (from a sex-positive, kink-aware perspective), body image, and disability and chronic illness.
As Oscar Wilde once said, "One's real life is so often the life that one does not lead." But, for you, today can mark a decisive step down a path of authenticity, interpersonal connection, and greater ease in your body. As a licensed clinical social worker and practicing writer and artist, I am skilled in collaborating with you to first identify and then reimagine the themes, forms and narratives of your past and your everyday. My objective is to help you rediscover your potential and lead a more satisfying, conscious, and generative existence—all while feeling at home somatically.
I provide individual counseling with specializations including trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, pain management, gender identity, sexuality (from a sex-positive, kink-aware perspective), body image, and disability and chronic illness.
As Oscar Wilde once said, "One's real life is so often the life that one does not lead." But, for you, today can mark a decisive step down a path of authenticity, interpersonal connection, and greater ease in your body. As a licensed clinical social worker and practicing writer and artist, I am skilled in collaborating with you to first identify and then reimagine the themes, forms and narratives of your past and your everyday. My objective is to help you rediscover your potential and lead a more satisfying, conscious, and generative existence—all while feeling at home somatically.
![Photo of Gregory J Harms, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45296f2a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
A behavioral approach is well suited to clients with chronic medical conditions, such as pain, headaches, diabetes, heart failure, and cancer, as well as episodic problems, such as insomnia.
As a health psychologist, I work with clients who have physical and emotional conditions that are getting in the way of being able to live the lives they want. I help clients identify and follow through on changes they can make to improve their well-being. I use a behavioral approach supplemented with biofeedback and hypnosis. I also work with couples who are struggling to find ways to get closer together and feel like they are truly partners in their relationship. The key to my approach is to find effective ways to get what you want from your life.
A behavioral approach is well suited to clients with chronic medical conditions, such as pain, headaches, diabetes, heart failure, and cancer, as well as episodic problems, such as insomnia.
As a health psychologist, I work with clients who have physical and emotional conditions that are getting in the way of being able to live the lives they want. I help clients identify and follow through on changes they can make to improve their well-being. I use a behavioral approach supplemented with biofeedback and hypnosis. I also work with couples who are struggling to find ways to get closer together and feel like they are truly partners in their relationship. The key to my approach is to find effective ways to get what you want from your life.
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![Photo of Ruth Anderson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fc2d00e-8daa-4795-be93-1f192d625ded/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have immediate openings! ! I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I specialize in Health Psychology with an emphasis on helping individuals who have experienced major medical events and acute/chronic medical difficulties or changes. I understand how scary such changes and adjustments can be, and am here to help you process and move forward with your life. I also am experienced in treating chronic pain, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, functional disorders, mood swings and bipolar disorders, relationship challenges, grief, and struggles specific to those with neurodevelopment differences such as autism.
I have immediate openings! ! I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I specialize in Health Psychology with an emphasis on helping individuals who have experienced major medical events and acute/chronic medical difficulties or changes. I understand how scary such changes and adjustments can be, and am here to help you process and move forward with your life. I also am experienced in treating chronic pain, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, functional disorders, mood swings and bipolar disorders, relationship challenges, grief, and struggles specific to those with neurodevelopment differences such as autism.
![Photo of Dr. Valerie Maty, LCPC, RPT, ATR-BC, SEP, CADC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83110580-87ff-46fa-aa1a-ad6cdd2bb33e/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Cheryl Hurst - Private Practice Yoga Therapy, LLC, PsyD, C-IAYT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f34d31e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer an integration of psychotherapy and Yoga Therapy in tandem sessions. I am both a licensed health psychologist and a certified yoga therapist. My clients tend to be high functioning adults seeking private holistic therapy and pain relief. I assist with relationships, stress, back pain, neck pain, sports injuries, physical disabilities and medical conditions. Supported yoga postures, proper alignment, and longer holds facilitate deeper feeling, fuller opening, greater release. Yoga Therapy enhances rehabilitation of injuries naturally using gravity, tensegrity and breath to improve circulation and create more space in tight joints, relieving tension and fatigue, facilitating clarity and insight.
I offer an integration of psychotherapy and Yoga Therapy in tandem sessions. I am both a licensed health psychologist and a certified yoga therapist. My clients tend to be high functioning adults seeking private holistic therapy and pain relief. I assist with relationships, stress, back pain, neck pain, sports injuries, physical disabilities and medical conditions. Supported yoga postures, proper alignment, and longer holds facilitate deeper feeling, fuller opening, greater release. Yoga Therapy enhances rehabilitation of injuries naturally using gravity, tensegrity and breath to improve circulation and create more space in tight joints, relieving tension and fatigue, facilitating clarity and insight.
![Photo of Catherine Boyce - Evanston Counseling, PLLC, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf1eb357-2ea8-4971-84f2-a5d220ff50d2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Evanston Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
You’ve been carrying the anxiety and pain for far too long. No one really knows what it's like to be you. It feels utterly lonely. But you are at the point, where you want to find hope again and see if there is a chance that it doesn’t have to be this way. You are navigating relationships with your intimate partner and friends, and experiencing difficult lonely feelings about your life, family, health, and career. Whether you have a relationship or are starting a new one, planning a family or maintaining one, struggling at college, battling chronic pain or IBS, or moving into the empty nest syndrome, there is so much to worry about.
You’ve been carrying the anxiety and pain for far too long. No one really knows what it's like to be you. It feels utterly lonely. But you are at the point, where you want to find hope again and see if there is a chance that it doesn’t have to be this way. You are navigating relationships with your intimate partner and friends, and experiencing difficult lonely feelings about your life, family, health, and career. Whether you have a relationship or are starting a new one, planning a family or maintaining one, struggling at college, battling chronic pain or IBS, or moving into the empty nest syndrome, there is so much to worry about.
![Photo of Lina Liu, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5dba641-d3d1-424b-8ce8-ac71c9fc5a53/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Lori A. Jensen, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c67b5ea-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.)
![Photo of Julia Rubinshteyn, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4df6bbd3-51ae-4129-bb7c-0cd775694b4f/3/320x400.jpeg)
I take a compassionate, warm, and collaborative approach to connect with my clients and understand their goals for improving their quality of life. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, I can help you to feel empowered to face challenges in your life. I work with clients who have issues related to anxiety, stress, and depression. I also have specialized training in treating insomnia, chronic pain, coping with chronic illness, and coping with the stress of caring for a loved one with chronic illness.
I take a compassionate, warm, and collaborative approach to connect with my clients and understand their goals for improving their quality of life. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, I can help you to feel empowered to face challenges in your life. I work with clients who have issues related to anxiety, stress, and depression. I also have specialized training in treating insomnia, chronic pain, coping with chronic illness, and coping with the stress of caring for a loved one with chronic illness.
![Photo of Nitaya Chawla, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4593d7e8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have found hypnosis to be an effective tool for a variety of issues including; chronic and acute pain, weight management, smoking cession, stress, sleep issues, anxiety, and panic attacks.
Change is never easy,but with the assistance of a therapist, you can start to learn skills to move towards your goals. Some of these skills include effective communication, mindfulness, relaxation, and changing negative thought patterns. In my work with couples, I focus on teaching communication skills and understanding underlying issues that effect the relationship.
I have found hypnosis to be an effective tool for a variety of issues including; chronic and acute pain, weight management, smoking cession, stress, sleep issues, anxiety, and panic attacks.
Change is never easy,but with the assistance of a therapist, you can start to learn skills to move towards your goals. Some of these skills include effective communication, mindfulness, relaxation, and changing negative thought patterns. In my work with couples, I focus on teaching communication skills and understanding underlying issues that effect the relationship.
![Photo of Kate Nash, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3658d6b0-0460-481c-a493-2d2b04c66d9f/2/320x400.jpeg)
If so, I am a licensed professional counselor that is working toward specializing in chronic pain, caregiver support, grief and bereavement, behavioral interventions for attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, and anxiety disorders, including social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder (worry), and health anxiety.
Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed by your emotions or what you have to accomplish? Do you struggle to find time for yourself or notice that you don't have the energy to meet your own needs after taking care of everyone else? Do you lose concentration easily and get sick tracked so much so that you end up not accomplishing everything you need to complete? Are you looking for stability and strategies to manage the world around you and within you?
If so, I am a licensed professional counselor that is working toward specializing in chronic pain, caregiver support, grief and bereavement, behavioral interventions for attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, and anxiety disorders, including social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder (worry), and health anxiety.
Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed by your emotions or what you have to accomplish? Do you struggle to find time for yourself or notice that you don't have the energy to meet your own needs after taking care of everyone else? Do you lose concentration easily and get sick tracked so much so that you end up not accomplishing everything you need to complete? Are you looking for stability and strategies to manage the world around you and within you?
See more therapy options for Illinois
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.