Chronic Pain Therapists in Manchester, NH

Photo of Amanda Rose Hitchings, PsyD, Psychologist
Amanda Rose Hitchings
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101  (Online Only)
Diagnostic Assessment; Assessment to support gender affirming care; Specific consults to address: Pelvic pain, Premenstrual syndrome & premenstrual dysphoric disorder, Menopause-related mood changes, Mood changes associated with gynecological cancer, Coping with infertility or loss, trauma focused birth planning, Birth Story Listening.
I am Rose, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in reproductive medicine. My small telemedicine only practice services all communities in NH, VT, and UT. Additionally I am a doula with specific training in Birth Story Listening. My therapy style integrates modern mindfulness CBT and positive psychology approaches. Together we explore the relationship between our mental health and physical health and the ways they affect each other. New meaning and acceptance will arise. My heart is in the creative consultation practice, exploring the unique way we can foster resiliency throughout our development.
Diagnostic Assessment; Assessment to support gender affirming care; Specific consults to address: Pelvic pain, Premenstrual syndrome & premenstrual dysphoric disorder, Menopause-related mood changes, Mood changes associated with gynecological cancer, Coping with infertility or loss, trauma focused birth planning, Birth Story Listening.
I am Rose, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in reproductive medicine. My small telemedicine only practice services all communities in NH, VT, and UT. Additionally I am a doula with specific training in Birth Story Listening. My therapy style integrates modern mindfulness CBT and positive psychology approaches. Together we explore the relationship between our mental health and physical health and the ways they affect each other. New meaning and acceptance will arise. My heart is in the creative consultation practice, exploring the unique way we can foster resiliency throughout our development.
(603) 945-5925 View (603) 945-5925
Photo of Kimberly Sieper - Blue Lotus Wellness LLC, LCMHC, APRN, MLADC, PMHNP, Counselor
Blue Lotus Wellness LLC
Counselor, LCMHC, APRN, MLADC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03104
Blue Lotus Wellness understands the difficulties that come with navigating mental health and finding a provider you can connect with. Our team of experienced counselors are here to support and guide you on your journey towards healing and personal growth. We work with adult men, women and couples experiencing a variety of mental health issues including but not limited to addictions, trauma, self-esteem, mood disorders, relationship difficulties, chronic pain and more. We can provide Ketamine Therapy and medication management by one of our Nurse Practitioners as well as counseling support from any of our professional counselors.
Blue Lotus Wellness understands the difficulties that come with navigating mental health and finding a provider you can connect with. Our team of experienced counselors are here to support and guide you on your journey towards healing and personal growth. We work with adult men, women and couples experiencing a variety of mental health issues including but not limited to addictions, trauma, self-esteem, mood disorders, relationship difficulties, chronic pain and more. We can provide Ketamine Therapy and medication management by one of our Nurse Practitioners as well as counseling support from any of our professional counselors.
(833) 658-8441 View (833) 658-8441
Photo of Thom Lynne Bloomquist - Beyond Your Best, LLC, MSN, CRNA, CH
Beyond Your Best, LLC
MSN, CRNA, CH
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03103
Our pain management specialist is an ex- chronic pain patient who understands and also knows there are effective methods that deemphasize or provide alternatives to or minimize opiates.
We help people create desired changes. With methods like hypnosis and personality-specific stress reduction we help improve perception and performance in areas like habits, concerns, athletic performance, anger, conflict, weight, ,self-esteem, smoking, chronic pain mgt., stress, "Care for the Caregivers" issues and stresses, cravings, communication skills, grief, assertiveness, self-hpnosis, fear of dentists. Generally, we help ordinary people with a numerous ordinary issues. Our team also has an HR specialist skilled in individual, company and corporate teams. Our team skills also include issues like weight & smoking for individuals/groups and age regression. Our pain management specialist is a licensed ARNP.
Our pain management specialist is an ex- chronic pain patient who understands and also knows there are effective methods that deemphasize or provide alternatives to or minimize opiates.
We help people create desired changes. With methods like hypnosis and personality-specific stress reduction we help improve perception and performance in areas like habits, concerns, athletic performance, anger, conflict, weight, ,self-esteem, smoking, chronic pain mgt., stress, "Care for the Caregivers" issues and stresses, cravings, communication skills, grief, assertiveness, self-hpnosis, fear of dentists. Generally, we help ordinary people with a numerous ordinary issues. Our team also has an HR specialist skilled in individual, company and corporate teams. Our team skills also include issues like weight & smoking for individuals/groups and age regression. Our pain management specialist is a licensed ARNP.
(603) 239-2242 View (603) 239-2242
Photo of Laura Trachtenberg, MS , Pre-Licensed Professional
Laura Trachtenberg
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101
Populations I strive to serve are those with chronic pain and illnesses, healthcare professionals, grief (in all forms!), and those experiencing intimate partner difficulties (physical or emotional).
We tend to forget just how connected the mind and body are when it comes to facing life’s challenges. For example, have you ever noticed having physical body pain during a time of significant stress? Or even instances of grief and loss, trauma, relationship concerns, chronic illnesses, burnout,etc. Is your body tensing right now just reading this? (If so, I invite you to take a minute to think about your “happy place” and breathe before reading on!).I am a firm believer that healing is not linear, and that we can use therapy as a time to approach ourselves, emotions, and sensations with an open mind.
Populations I strive to serve are those with chronic pain and illnesses, healthcare professionals, grief (in all forms!), and those experiencing intimate partner difficulties (physical or emotional).
We tend to forget just how connected the mind and body are when it comes to facing life’s challenges. For example, have you ever noticed having physical body pain during a time of significant stress? Or even instances of grief and loss, trauma, relationship concerns, chronic illnesses, burnout,etc. Is your body tensing right now just reading this? (If so, I invite you to take a minute to think about your “happy place” and breathe before reading on!).I am a firm believer that healing is not linear, and that we can use therapy as a time to approach ourselves, emotions, and sensations with an open mind.
(844) 978-1736 View (844) 978-1736
Photo of Janice Jewell - Janice Jewell, LICSW, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janice Jewell, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you’re dealing with grief, loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, or chronic illness, I can guide you toward relief from distressing symptoms and emotional turmoil.
For many individuals, faith plays a vital role in shaping their identity. As a therapist, I wholeheartedly embrace this aspect of your healing journey. Drawing from biblical truths, psychological practices, and neuroscience principles—such as EMDR, CBT, and IFS—I address the whole person: mind, body, and spirit.
Whether you’re dealing with grief, loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, or chronic illness, I can guide you toward relief from distressing symptoms and emotional turmoil.
For many individuals, faith plays a vital role in shaping their identity. As a therapist, I wholeheartedly embrace this aspect of your healing journey. Drawing from biblical truths, psychological practices, and neuroscience principles—such as EMDR, CBT, and IFS—I address the whole person: mind, body, and spirit.
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Photo of Lindsay Holden, MS, LMT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lindsay Holden
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMT
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03104  (Online Only)
I'm now accepting new clients (online only)! My practice focuses on integrating evidence-based practices with other holistic methods. We'll explore past wounds/trauma and acknowledge how this plays a role in current relationships and personal wellness or chronic illness. We'll investigate spirituality and purpose to create a sense of fulfillment and passion for life, and work to create balance and resilience to face all of life's challenges with strength and greater ease. Over 20 years of therapeutic bodywork, clinical training in mental health and classical homeopathy gives me a unique lens through which I view clients and help
I'm now accepting new clients (online only)! My practice focuses on integrating evidence-based practices with other holistic methods. We'll explore past wounds/trauma and acknowledge how this plays a role in current relationships and personal wellness or chronic illness. We'll investigate spirituality and purpose to create a sense of fulfillment and passion for life, and work to create balance and resilience to face all of life's challenges with strength and greater ease. Over 20 years of therapeutic bodywork, clinical training in mental health and classical homeopathy gives me a unique lens through which I view clients and help
(866) 858-7626 View (866) 858-7626
Photo of Lori Olson, MS, LCMHC, LMHC, CCHT
Lori Olson
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LMHC, CCHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03101  (Online Only)
Do you want long lasting and effective change? Did you know that hyper and/or hypo arousal of your autonomic nervous system due to developmental and other trauma can leave you feeling stuck? This is simply because words and willpower are not enough to make change. Now offering the evidenced-based Safe and Sound program based on polyvagal theory of Dr. Stephen Porges to help "reset" your autonomic nervous system so you are better able to benefit from talk and experiential therapies. You can participate in this program in the privacy and convenience of your own home.
Do you want long lasting and effective change? Did you know that hyper and/or hypo arousal of your autonomic nervous system due to developmental and other trauma can leave you feeling stuck? This is simply because words and willpower are not enough to make change. Now offering the evidenced-based Safe and Sound program based on polyvagal theory of Dr. Stephen Porges to help "reset" your autonomic nervous system so you are better able to benefit from talk and experiential therapies. You can participate in this program in the privacy and convenience of your own home.
(603) 287-1104 View (603) 287-1104
Photo of Lisa Eve Gold - mindful living, MA, MS, LMHC, Counselor
mindful living
Counselor, MA, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101  (Online Only)
Are you going through life experiencing challenges with emotional eating,Chronic fatigue, facing anxiety, cancer diagnosis, weight and health concerns? Do you have a diagnosis of a Eating Disorder? I am a licensed therapist and certified Health Coach with extensive experience in helping people making lasting change - in an environment of warmth, comfort and humor. Together, we will evaluate your unique situation and work to develop a plan that works for you - your circumstances, your goals, and your needs. With help and support using practical tools that will lead to a healthier and more satisfying life.
Are you going through life experiencing challenges with emotional eating,Chronic fatigue, facing anxiety, cancer diagnosis, weight and health concerns? Do you have a diagnosis of a Eating Disorder? I am a licensed therapist and certified Health Coach with extensive experience in helping people making lasting change - in an environment of warmth, comfort and humor. Together, we will evaluate your unique situation and work to develop a plan that works for you - your circumstances, your goals, and your needs. With help and support using practical tools that will lead to a healthier and more satisfying life.
(970) 499-8645 View (970) 499-8645
Photo of Julie St.onge, RN BSN , CPC-c , ACSTH, C-SASI
Julie St.onge
RN BSN , CPC-c , ACSTH, C-SASI
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101
I am a trauma informed life coach with a background in extensive nursing experience over 20 years. I have been trained in the psychotherapy of brainspotting. This therapy has been used with 911 victims and the Sandy Hook School shooting community to bring healing to those who have suffered from deep emotional trauma. it is also effective in treating: anxiety, depression, focus issues, trauma, performance anxiety, phobias, OCD, eating disorders, and addictions. I have extensive experience in this therapy and typically see results within 4 sessions. Most levels of struggle drop by half at that point.
I am a trauma informed life coach with a background in extensive nursing experience over 20 years. I have been trained in the psychotherapy of brainspotting. This therapy has been used with 911 victims and the Sandy Hook School shooting community to bring healing to those who have suffered from deep emotional trauma. it is also effective in treating: anxiety, depression, focus issues, trauma, performance anxiety, phobias, OCD, eating disorders, and addictions. I have extensive experience in this therapy and typically see results within 4 sessions. Most levels of struggle drop by half at that point.
(603) 931-4717 View (603) 931-4717
Photo of Rose Carrigan, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rose Carrigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults, especially those looking to heal from complex or childhood trauma, but welcome clients who have a variety of diagnoses and life circumstances they’re seeking support for. As a therapist with Autism and ADHD, I understand firsthand how trauma can be complicated by neurodivergence and why working with a professional who understands this is crucial to effective healing for those who are neurodivergent themselves. I have a special focus on the mind-body connection and offer both psychodynamic and somatic approaches.
I work with adults, especially those looking to heal from complex or childhood trauma, but welcome clients who have a variety of diagnoses and life circumstances they’re seeking support for. As a therapist with Autism and ADHD, I understand firsthand how trauma can be complicated by neurodivergence and why working with a professional who understands this is crucial to effective healing for those who are neurodivergent themselves. I have a special focus on the mind-body connection and offer both psychodynamic and somatic approaches.
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Photo of Alicia Brown, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alicia Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03101
It takes courage to show up to therapy and even more to engage in the work of ongoing introspection. As a psychodynamic influenced therapist, I seek to work in depth with clients examining both conscious and unconscious material to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and/or other mental health disorders. It’s an honor to serve as guide and companion to the exploration of client’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The aim is to seek greater awareness in your life, clearing obstacles to your life goals and purpose. During our time together, I’ll meet your therapeutic efforts with acceptance, compassion, and kind regard.
It takes courage to show up to therapy and even more to engage in the work of ongoing introspection. As a psychodynamic influenced therapist, I seek to work in depth with clients examining both conscious and unconscious material to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and/or other mental health disorders. It’s an honor to serve as guide and companion to the exploration of client’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The aim is to seek greater awareness in your life, clearing obstacles to your life goals and purpose. During our time together, I’ll meet your therapeutic efforts with acceptance, compassion, and kind regard.
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Photo of Fatma Salem, PhD, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Fatma Salem
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that human suffering happens when the way we live our lives falls out of alignment with our internal compass. We are inherently driven to self-actualize and become the best version possible of ourselves; however, the reality is that we live in a very complex world that often steers us away from what we value. We often fall into this trap and begin to chase what society deems valuable, while being convinced that it's our true calling. This behavioral pattern is often piloted by our anxieties and relational trauma, which is what I am most fluent in, as a fellow human first, and a therapist second.
I believe that human suffering happens when the way we live our lives falls out of alignment with our internal compass. We are inherently driven to self-actualize and become the best version possible of ourselves; however, the reality is that we live in a very complex world that often steers us away from what we value. We often fall into this trap and begin to chase what society deems valuable, while being convinced that it's our true calling. This behavioral pattern is often piloted by our anxieties and relational trauma, which is what I am most fluent in, as a fellow human first, and a therapist second.
(603) 810-7952 View (603) 810-7952
Photo of Kayla Fedorchuk, MA, CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kayla Fedorchuk
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03101
"Never underestimate the power you have to take your life in a new direction". You are capable of amazing things! Whether this is your first time in counseling or you have been in counseling for years, it is never too late to grow, evolve, and progress towards new beginnings. Our negative thoughts and emotions can be traced back to unpleasant memories. Processing these memories can help you eliminate those negative thoughts, feelings, and emotions; reducing your on-going stress, anxiety, fears, etc. My goal is to help you heal in a space that is free of judgement; where you can feel comfortable, safe, and secure.
"Never underestimate the power you have to take your life in a new direction". You are capable of amazing things! Whether this is your first time in counseling or you have been in counseling for years, it is never too late to grow, evolve, and progress towards new beginnings. Our negative thoughts and emotions can be traced back to unpleasant memories. Processing these memories can help you eliminate those negative thoughts, feelings, and emotions; reducing your on-going stress, anxiety, fears, etc. My goal is to help you heal in a space that is free of judgement; where you can feel comfortable, safe, and secure.
(603) 696-4872 View (603) 696-4872
Photo of Erica Goodman - Novus Vita Counseling, PLLC, Psychologist
Novus Vita Counseling, PLLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03104
Our mission is to offer an Integrated Approach to Mental Health, and our treatment team is varied in their ability to provide clinical advice, support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns. Our treatment team works with clients to find solutions to a wide range of life challenges and psychological issues. Blending conventional and alternative approaches, we draw on a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client. We will work with clients to help them build on their strengths in order to identify and achieve life goals.
Our mission is to offer an Integrated Approach to Mental Health, and our treatment team is varied in their ability to provide clinical advice, support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns. Our treatment team works with clients to find solutions to a wide range of life challenges and psychological issues. Blending conventional and alternative approaches, we draw on a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client. We will work with clients to help them build on their strengths in order to identify and achieve life goals.
(603) 952-3092 View (603) 952-3092
Photo of Zachary DeWitt, CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Zachary DeWitt
Pre-Licensed Professional, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03101
I believe in the healing power of connection and tailoring counseling specifically to the client’s needs. I have experience working with individuals of all ages. In addition to traditional EMDR therapy, my background also includes Mindfulness, Art Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and other solution-focused approaches. I am currently offering morning, afternoon and evening appointments. I look forward to connecting with you!
I believe in the healing power of connection and tailoring counseling specifically to the client’s needs. I have experience working with individuals of all ages. In addition to traditional EMDR therapy, my background also includes Mindfulness, Art Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and other solution-focused approaches. I am currently offering morning, afternoon and evening appointments. I look forward to connecting with you!
(603) 704-4629 View (603) 704-4629
Photo of Christie Faella, LCMHC , MLADC, RN, CYT, Counselor
Christie Faella
Counselor, LCMHC , MLADC, RN, CYT
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03102  (Online Only)
Christie Faella is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, a Licensed Master Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Registered Nurse. She completed her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology degree at Antioch University. Christie provides counseling for adults of all ages, couples and same sex couples. Christie’s treatment approach is client centered, integrative and holistic. Christie believes in the life transforming power of mindfulness and self-compassion to invite transformation of difficult places. Christie has experience working with those who are invested in finding recovery from a variety of mental health and addictions.
Christie Faella is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, a Licensed Master Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Registered Nurse. She completed her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology degree at Antioch University. Christie provides counseling for adults of all ages, couples and same sex couples. Christie’s treatment approach is client centered, integrative and holistic. Christie believes in the life transforming power of mindfulness and self-compassion to invite transformation of difficult places. Christie has experience working with those who are invested in finding recovery from a variety of mental health and addictions.
(603) 207-8422 View (603) 207-8422
Photo of Theodore Meyer, LMHC, Counselor
Theodore Meyer
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03103  (Online Only)
My name is Theo Meyer and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), seeing clients across the state of New Hampshire Via Telehealth. I view the therapeutic process as similar to climbing a mountain, where sometimes it helps to have a guide to make the journey feel less overwhelming. When I am not in session, I enjoying cooking for friends and family, going on long hikes and walking my Yellow Lab, Goldie.
My name is Theo Meyer and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), seeing clients across the state of New Hampshire Via Telehealth. I view the therapeutic process as similar to climbing a mountain, where sometimes it helps to have a guide to make the journey feel less overwhelming. When I am not in session, I enjoying cooking for friends and family, going on long hikes and walking my Yellow Lab, Goldie.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Priyanka Khadka, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Priyanka Khadka
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101
Accepting new clients! Welcome to my therapeutic space! I specialize in clinical work with adolescents, adults, individuals, and couples. My role is to guide you on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. I am dedicated to creating a supportive and empowering environment, especially attuned to the unique needs of BIPOC and LGBT individuals. My practice is a safe space for survivors of Intimate Partner Violence to address and work through their trauma.
Accepting new clients! Welcome to my therapeutic space! I specialize in clinical work with adolescents, adults, individuals, and couples. My role is to guide you on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. I am dedicated to creating a supportive and empowering environment, especially attuned to the unique needs of BIPOC and LGBT individuals. My practice is a safe space for survivors of Intimate Partner Violence to address and work through their trauma.
(866) 571-0965 View (866) 571-0965
Photo of Denise Gaertner, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Denise Gaertner
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03104
I offer individual therapy to older adolescents and adults in a small private practice setting which allows me to personalize my service to you. I specialize in working with those who have problems as a result of having suffered trauma at some time in their lives, whether during childhood or more recently. I am able to offer help regulating difficult emotions, such as depression, anxiety and anger. I can also work with you to strengthen your sense of self-worth and relationships with others. I most enjoy helping people gain greater self-knowledge for a more fulfilling life.
I offer individual therapy to older adolescents and adults in a small private practice setting which allows me to personalize my service to you. I specialize in working with those who have problems as a result of having suffered trauma at some time in their lives, whether during childhood or more recently. I am able to offer help regulating difficult emotions, such as depression, anxiety and anger. I can also work with you to strengthen your sense of self-worth and relationships with others. I most enjoy helping people gain greater self-knowledge for a more fulfilling life.
(603) 685-3705 View (603) 685-3705
Photo of Sonya Gelinas - CARE Counseling Services LLC, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
CARE Counseling Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03101
Are you longing for freedom from the suffocating grip of anxiety, stress, and trauma? We understand the weight these issues carry and their impact on your daily life and overall well-being. You seek a breakthrough, a chance to regain control and find lasting relief. At CARE Counseling, we specialize in treating these exact challenges through cutting-edge treatments. Our goal is to guide you towards overcoming your mental health conditions. We believe that simply managing symptoms isn't enough. That's why we offer innovative therapies that provide quick and lasting relief.
Are you longing for freedom from the suffocating grip of anxiety, stress, and trauma? We understand the weight these issues carry and their impact on your daily life and overall well-being. You seek a breakthrough, a chance to regain control and find lasting relief. At CARE Counseling, we specialize in treating these exact challenges through cutting-edge treatments. Our goal is to guide you towards overcoming your mental health conditions. We believe that simply managing symptoms isn't enough. That's why we offer innovative therapies that provide quick and lasting relief.
(603) 685-4872 View (603) 685-4872
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.