Chronic Pain Therapists in Texas

Photo of Diane M Gard, PhD, BFK, NFK, Psychologist
Diane M Gard
Psychologist, PhD, BFK, NFK
Verified Verified
Gard can provide a thorough assessment and treatment plan to address depression, anxiety, stress management, pain management, mood management, behaviors, addictions, learning disorders, memory problems, adjustment issues, and trauma issues/ PTSD.
Dr. Gard has a PhD in Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine with over 30 years of clinical experience. Clients span a wide variety of diagnoses. She sees clients Age 5 to seniors. ETNH office is open Mondays through Thursdays and by appointment to serve the community. She can provide biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, light therapy in addition to eclectic approaches (cognitive and behavioral) to address your specific needs.
Gard can provide a thorough assessment and treatment plan to address depression, anxiety, stress management, pain management, mood management, behaviors, addictions, learning disorders, memory problems, adjustment issues, and trauma issues/ PTSD.
Dr. Gard has a PhD in Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine with over 30 years of clinical experience. Clients span a wide variety of diagnoses. She sees clients Age 5 to seniors. ETNH office is open Mondays through Thursdays and by appointment to serve the community. She can provide biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, light therapy in addition to eclectic approaches (cognitive and behavioral) to address your specific needs.
(903) 767-4190 View (903) 767-4190
Photo of Trey Holmes, LPC-A
Trey Holmes
LPC Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Trey specializes in working with people who have chronic illness/ chronic pain, depression, anxiety, individuals, children, teens, and Christian counseling. With a background of growing up in the church, and an education in biblical studies and theology, Trey is also open to utilizing faith-based counseling to those who desire it. Some of the therapeutic approaches he uses include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), rational-emotive behavior therapy (REBT), solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT), and existential therapy. To help deal with the trials that life brings his personal counseling approach aligns with person-centered therapy.
Trey specializes in working with people who have chronic illness/ chronic pain, depression, anxiety, individuals, children, teens, and Christian counseling. With a background of growing up in the church, and an education in biblical studies and theology, Trey is also open to utilizing faith-based counseling to those who desire it. Some of the therapeutic approaches he uses include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), rational-emotive behavior therapy (REBT), solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT), and existential therapy. To help deal with the trials that life brings his personal counseling approach aligns with person-centered therapy.
(469) 949-4334 View (469) 949-4334
Photo of Yvonne Frias, MS, LPC, NCC
Yvonne Frias
MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77581
For me, the opportunity to help others has always been a personal passion and I believe that every person deserves to be heard and seen. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in enjoy working with individuals dealing with chronic pain/ illness, adjustment issues, and caregiver burnout. My approach is tailored to each individual's needs and experiences, regardless of their age or background. I use a combination of Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Expressive Arts to help my clients achieve their goals, among a variety of other therapeutic evidence based techniques.
For me, the opportunity to help others has always been a personal passion and I believe that every person deserves to be heard and seen. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in enjoy working with individuals dealing with chronic pain/ illness, adjustment issues, and caregiver burnout. My approach is tailored to each individual's needs and experiences, regardless of their age or background. I use a combination of Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Expressive Arts to help my clients achieve their goals, among a variety of other therapeutic evidence based techniques.
(346) 275-3145 View (346) 275-3145
Photo of Bryan Snead - DeepWatersLPC, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
DeepWatersLPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78732  (Online Only)
At DeepWatersLPC we specialize in helping people just like you to overcome depression and anxiety, traumatic experiences, relational distress and struggles, and even chronic pain.
DeepWatersLPC helps people navigate their emotional deep waters toward relief and hope with effective, client centered, skilled therapy. What would it be like to wake up in the morning and be excited about the day? To have hope? To experience more than just relief, but real joy?
At DeepWatersLPC we specialize in helping people just like you to overcome depression and anxiety, traumatic experiences, relational distress and struggles, and even chronic pain.
DeepWatersLPC helps people navigate their emotional deep waters toward relief and hope with effective, client centered, skilled therapy. What would it be like to wake up in the morning and be excited about the day? To have hope? To experience more than just relief, but real joy?
(737) 352-4987 View (737) 352-4987
Photo of Renata C Doss, MEd, NCC, MAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renata C Doss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Denton, TX 76205  (Online Only)
I am a seasoned licensed professional counselor with over 20 years experience in Behavioral Healthcare in various clinical settings where my focus has been on providing therapy services to Individuals, Couples and Families. My treatment areas of specialization include: Trauma (including Traumatic Body Injury), Depression, Anxiety, Life Coaching, Relationship Issues, Chronic Pain as well as Greif and Loss.
I am a seasoned licensed professional counselor with over 20 years experience in Behavioral Healthcare in various clinical settings where my focus has been on providing therapy services to Individuals, Couples and Families. My treatment areas of specialization include: Trauma (including Traumatic Body Injury), Depression, Anxiety, Life Coaching, Relationship Issues, Chronic Pain as well as Greif and Loss.
(281) 957-1329 View (281) 957-1329
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Morris, PhD, BCET, DCM, DPM, Psychologist
Dr. Jonathan Morris
Psychologist, PhD, BCET, DCM, DPM
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77074
ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, PAIN, STRESS are interwoven through mind and body interactions.
For individual, couples, adults and teens, the pursuit of ones therapeutic goals is a deeply personal endeavor, one that entails time, effort, occasional discomfort and some expense. I am keenly aware of the burden of trust, inherent in my participation in so intimate and earnest an undertaking, and will apply my clinical judgment, professional acumen, interpersonal skills and 35-years of experience, to discern and address those needs. In doing so, respect for your values, reverence for your individuality and deference to your aspirations, will guide our endeavor, enabling you to attain your goals with dignity and true contentment.
ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, PAIN, STRESS are interwoven through mind and body interactions.
For individual, couples, adults and teens, the pursuit of ones therapeutic goals is a deeply personal endeavor, one that entails time, effort, occasional discomfort and some expense. I am keenly aware of the burden of trust, inherent in my participation in so intimate and earnest an undertaking, and will apply my clinical judgment, professional acumen, interpersonal skills and 35-years of experience, to discern and address those needs. In doing so, respect for your values, reverence for your individuality and deference to your aspirations, will guide our endeavor, enabling you to attain your goals with dignity and true contentment.
(281) 937-8306 View (281) 937-8306
Photo of Pamela Steele, MS, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Primarily, I have worked in the areas of chronic pain, stress reduction, trauma, anger management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, abuse, family relations, and self-empowerment.
Breathe... Now breathe again. Let go of negative emotions and thoughts, and allow more of what you really, really want. No matter what obstacles are presenting in your life experience right now, we can begin an integrative journey together, with a simple breath. Feelings and emotions are true indicators to help guide you to what you want more of in life. We can focus and become more aware of choices and positive options, and ultimately remove self-limiting beliefs. We can learn to make decisions with more clarity and awareness, leading you to a more joyful and fuller life.
Primarily, I have worked in the areas of chronic pain, stress reduction, trauma, anger management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, abuse, family relations, and self-empowerment.
Breathe... Now breathe again. Let go of negative emotions and thoughts, and allow more of what you really, really want. No matter what obstacles are presenting in your life experience right now, we can begin an integrative journey together, with a simple breath. Feelings and emotions are true indicators to help guide you to what you want more of in life. We can focus and become more aware of choices and positive options, and ultimately remove self-limiting beliefs. We can learn to make decisions with more clarity and awareness, leading you to a more joyful and fuller life.
(512) 882-1766 View (512) 882-1766
Photo of Noelle Prax, MA
Noelle Prax
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
Trauma can be a difficult subject to talk about. Often we minimize or compare our experiences with those of our friends who are somehow more valid. We struggle to name our trauma, but trauma includes impactful events like not having our needs met growing up or a significant break-up. Chronic trauma is stored in the body and can manifest as feeling on edge, feeling overstimulated, or people-pleasing. As a former EMT, I understand how these experiences can manifest somatically. I specialize in complex trauma and attachment wounds, and support individuals through life transitions, grief, medical trauma, chronic illness, and OCD.
Trauma can be a difficult subject to talk about. Often we minimize or compare our experiences with those of our friends who are somehow more valid. We struggle to name our trauma, but trauma includes impactful events like not having our needs met growing up or a significant break-up. Chronic trauma is stored in the body and can manifest as feeling on edge, feeling overstimulated, or people-pleasing. As a former EMT, I understand how these experiences can manifest somatically. I specialize in complex trauma and attachment wounds, and support individuals through life transitions, grief, medical trauma, chronic illness, and OCD.
(737) 345-4693 View (737) 345-4693
Photo of Barbara A Ellis, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara A Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman, TX 75092
Are you an individual that needs to prioritize your mental health and well-being? Daily challenges, stress, chronic pain, PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, and the unique struggles that come with aging can be overwhelming. Come share with me a safe and empathetic space to express your thoughts and feelings as I guide and support you towards emotional (the ability to cope with and manage emotions) and mental (the ability to think clearly and make good decisions) healing. My goal is to help you navigate life's complexities, foster personal growth, and encourage self-care reaching the goals you set and the positive results you desire.
Are you an individual that needs to prioritize your mental health and well-being? Daily challenges, stress, chronic pain, PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, and the unique struggles that come with aging can be overwhelming. Come share with me a safe and empathetic space to express your thoughts and feelings as I guide and support you towards emotional (the ability to cope with and manage emotions) and mental (the ability to think clearly and make good decisions) healing. My goal is to help you navigate life's complexities, foster personal growth, and encourage self-care reaching the goals you set and the positive results you desire.
(903) 418-4223 View (903) 418-4223
Photo of Revis Ann Massey, PsyD, Psychologist
Revis Ann Massey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75082
My specialty is chronic illness, such as cancer, auto-immune diseases, etc.
I am a psychologist at The Meier Clinics in Richardson, TX. I provide individual, group and family therapy for ages 8+. I am interested in working with anyone struggling with chronic illness, pain, sleep, depression, and anxiety, I believe that life is a journey and that, at times, all of us may encounter obstacles for which we don't have coping strategies. My role is to support and empower clients to make healthy decisions and move forward in the journey. I also conduct personality assessments for mood disorders, anxiety and other issues which may cause problems.
My specialty is chronic illness, such as cancer, auto-immune diseases, etc.
I am a psychologist at The Meier Clinics in Richardson, TX. I provide individual, group and family therapy for ages 8+. I am interested in working with anyone struggling with chronic illness, pain, sleep, depression, and anxiety, I believe that life is a journey and that, at times, all of us may encounter obstacles for which we don't have coping strategies. My role is to support and empower clients to make healthy decisions and move forward in the journey. I also conduct personality assessments for mood disorders, anxiety and other issues which may cause problems.
(972) 437-4698 View (972) 437-4698
Photo of Jennifer Adair, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Adair
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77304  (Online Only)
Are you facing challenges due to anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, narcissistic abuse recovery, complex relationship issues, or disruptive sexual deviation? I'm here to help. With specialized expertise in these areas, I've dedicated my education & career to providing personalized & effective therapy tailored to your unique needs & circumstances. I offer compassionate & non-judgmental support to help you thrive. I provide telehealth sessions, ensuring accessibility & flexibility. Visit my website to request an appointment and begin your journey towards a brighter tomorrow. www.onestaco.com
Are you facing challenges due to anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, narcissistic abuse recovery, complex relationship issues, or disruptive sexual deviation? I'm here to help. With specialized expertise in these areas, I've dedicated my education & career to providing personalized & effective therapy tailored to your unique needs & circumstances. I offer compassionate & non-judgmental support to help you thrive. I provide telehealth sessions, ensuring accessibility & flexibility. Visit my website to request an appointment and begin your journey towards a brighter tomorrow. www.onestaco.com
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Photo of Allison Ray Benavides, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Ray Benavides
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209  (Online Only)
If you have a body & heart that hurts, I’m here to hold, help & hear your pain.
If you’re in chronic pain (physical or emotional), feel left out of life, or find yourself doubting your value or ability, I could be a good fit. My clients find me because they struggle managing pain, illness or fatigue. They often are depressed, anxious & isolate, with insomnia, grief or panic. They can struggle at work, home, socially & in their own headspace & heart. There can be layers of trauma. All of my clients come to me with hope, seeking a higher quality of life. I love my work because I get to see this happen - the models I teach are effective & work. If you want out of this downward spiral, I can teach you how too.
If you have a body & heart that hurts, I’m here to hold, help & hear your pain.
If you’re in chronic pain (physical or emotional), feel left out of life, or find yourself doubting your value or ability, I could be a good fit. My clients find me because they struggle managing pain, illness or fatigue. They often are depressed, anxious & isolate, with insomnia, grief or panic. They can struggle at work, home, socially & in their own headspace & heart. There can be layers of trauma. All of my clients come to me with hope, seeking a higher quality of life. I love my work because I get to see this happen - the models I teach are effective & work. If you want out of this downward spiral, I can teach you how too.
(210) 971-4414 View (210) 971-4414
Photo of Melody Pruitt - Melody Pruitt, LPC- Associate; Kathleen Mills-LPCS, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melody Pruitt, LPC- Associate; Kathleen Mills-LPCS
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Some of my current specialties are working with those currently dealing with anxiety/depression issues, suicidal ideations, self-harm behaviors, chronic pain, chronic illness (autoimmune disorders) and vaccine injuries!.
**I am currently accepting new clients!** My yearning passion and desire has always been to help others, in every way possible, and the characteristics a genuine counselor should have has always come naturally to me. Overall, mental health has such a negative stigma in our society but I have faith this perspective WILL change. My main priority is to walk side-by-side with each client as they navigate their way towards wholeness & healing (mind, body & spirit) while emphasizing the importance of growth and finding/implementing healthier ways to cope/positively maintain their mental health and life.
Some of my current specialties are working with those currently dealing with anxiety/depression issues, suicidal ideations, self-harm behaviors, chronic pain, chronic illness (autoimmune disorders) and vaccine injuries!.
**I am currently accepting new clients!** My yearning passion and desire has always been to help others, in every way possible, and the characteristics a genuine counselor should have has always come naturally to me. Overall, mental health has such a negative stigma in our society but I have faith this perspective WILL change. My main priority is to walk side-by-side with each client as they navigate their way towards wholeness & healing (mind, body & spirit) while emphasizing the importance of growth and finding/implementing healthier ways to cope/positively maintain their mental health and life.
(214) 817-4749 x315 View (214) 817-4749 x315
Photo of Kimberly Wilson, NMD, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, NMD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77494  (Online Only)
Imagine what life would be like if you were not bothered by intrusive thoughts, racing thoughts, anxious thoughts, obsessions, compulsions, or constant worry and panic. What would you do with that extra time? Imagine if your chronic pain or chronic illness was not on your mind all of the time. How would you feel? Imagine your relationships in a good place, thriving, and free of conflict. What would be different? Yes, all of it is possible.
Imagine what life would be like if you were not bothered by intrusive thoughts, racing thoughts, anxious thoughts, obsessions, compulsions, or constant worry and panic. What would you do with that extra time? Imagine if your chronic pain or chronic illness was not on your mind all of the time. How would you feel? Imagine your relationships in a good place, thriving, and free of conflict. What would be different? Yes, all of it is possible.
(888) 539-1233 View (888) 539-1233
Photo of Jim D Murphy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jim D Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
As a two-time cancer survivor, the spouse of a chronic pain "thriver", and a marriage and family therapist, I can help you find hope, learn to feel understood by your medical providers - and family members - and grow to see life as more than just your health challenges.
Are you overwhelmed with your chronic pain, a chronic illness, or other health challenges and aren't sure if anyone understands your concerns? Do you feel like a burden to your family and friends? Consider getting an ally who can help you find hope and more effectively manage your situation.
As a two-time cancer survivor, the spouse of a chronic pain "thriver", and a marriage and family therapist, I can help you find hope, learn to feel understood by your medical providers - and family members - and grow to see life as more than just your health challenges.
Are you overwhelmed with your chronic pain, a chronic illness, or other health challenges and aren't sure if anyone understands your concerns? Do you feel like a burden to your family and friends? Consider getting an ally who can help you find hope and more effectively manage your situation.
(979) 800-3070 View (979) 800-3070
Photo of Ralph Casazza, LCP, PhD, Psychologist
Ralph Casazza
Psychologist, LCP, PhD
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78046
I am Dr. Ralph Casazza, a licensed psychologist; with clinical training & experience focusing on the treatment of issues related to depression, anxiety, work stress/career counseling, communication skills development, chronic medical conditions, pain management, PTSD, substance abuse, & other addictive behaviors. I have worked in various settings and with different client populations, including adults, senior citizens, medical populations (hospitals, nursing homes, and rehab facilities), LGBTQ+, substance abuse clinics, etc.
I am Dr. Ralph Casazza, a licensed psychologist; with clinical training & experience focusing on the treatment of issues related to depression, anxiety, work stress/career counseling, communication skills development, chronic medical conditions, pain management, PTSD, substance abuse, & other addictive behaviors. I have worked in various settings and with different client populations, including adults, senior citizens, medical populations (hospitals, nursing homes, and rehab facilities), LGBTQ+, substance abuse clinics, etc.
(817) 961-9154 View (817) 961-9154
Photo of Ashlie Llorens, PhD, LSSP, Psychologist
Ashlie Llorens
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584
Llorens is highly skilled at treating a wide range of conditions and problems including but not limited to depression, anxiety, OCD, chronic pain, adjustment, and academic difficulties.
Dr. Llorens provides evidence-based care, emphasizing a direct, caring style. She is genuine, honest, and approachable. Dr. Llorens uses relatable and practical approaches based in the principles of cognitive behavior therapy, behavior modification, mindfulness, and acceptance commitment therapy. In addition to in-person care, Dr. Llorens practices Telepsychology in 22 U.S. states as a PSYPACT approved psychologist; E. Passport mobility #7452. Renewal Date: 7/6/2022
Llorens is highly skilled at treating a wide range of conditions and problems including but not limited to depression, anxiety, OCD, chronic pain, adjustment, and academic difficulties.
Dr. Llorens provides evidence-based care, emphasizing a direct, caring style. She is genuine, honest, and approachable. Dr. Llorens uses relatable and practical approaches based in the principles of cognitive behavior therapy, behavior modification, mindfulness, and acceptance commitment therapy. In addition to in-person care, Dr. Llorens practices Telepsychology in 22 U.S. states as a PSYPACT approved psychologist; E. Passport mobility #7452. Renewal Date: 7/6/2022
(713) 804-7639 View (713) 804-7639
Photo of Dr. Jacqueline Contreras, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jacqueline Contreras
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78228
¡Hola! My name is Dr. Jacqueline Contreras. My experiences include treating patients managing chronic pain, anxiety, stress, phase of life issues, post-traumatic stress disorder, personal growth, social phobia, self-esteem, work related injuries, car accident injuries, and adjustment disorder. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ patients, too. Additionally, I have advised college students from low socio-economic communities, career counseling, and helped first-generation college students adjust to a four-year university.
¡Hola! My name is Dr. Jacqueline Contreras. My experiences include treating patients managing chronic pain, anxiety, stress, phase of life issues, post-traumatic stress disorder, personal growth, social phobia, self-esteem, work related injuries, car accident injuries, and adjustment disorder. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ patients, too. Additionally, I have advised college students from low socio-economic communities, career counseling, and helped first-generation college students adjust to a four-year university.
(210) 972-1137 View (210) 972-1137
Photo of Jose A Gonzalez, MA, LPC, LCDC, CRS, CART, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jose A Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC, CRS, CART
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78041
For the past 28 years I have been assisting members in our community and surrounding areas with an array of mental health issues confronting them and their families. Among these have been MH Evaluations and Clearances, Treatment for Alcohol/Drug Abuse/Dependence, Children/Adolescent Services, Anger Management, Couple, Marriage & Family Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Impulse Control Issues, Self Harm, Self-Esteem Issues, Body Image Concerns, Sexual Disorders, Weight Reduction/Control, Gender Identity Issues, Behavioral Pain Management, Vocational/Career Counseling, Stress management Biofeedback, Hypnotherapy, and other.
For the past 28 years I have been assisting members in our community and surrounding areas with an array of mental health issues confronting them and their families. Among these have been MH Evaluations and Clearances, Treatment for Alcohol/Drug Abuse/Dependence, Children/Adolescent Services, Anger Management, Couple, Marriage & Family Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Impulse Control Issues, Self Harm, Self-Esteem Issues, Body Image Concerns, Sexual Disorders, Weight Reduction/Control, Gender Identity Issues, Behavioral Pain Management, Vocational/Career Counseling, Stress management Biofeedback, Hypnotherapy, and other.
(956) 253-0904 View (956) 253-0904
Photo of Elia Ann Guzman, MEd, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elia Ann Guzman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
D Hanis, TX 78850
I specialize in helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, grief, and/or chronic pain.
You want to experience more joy and fulfillment in your life, but you struggle with fear of failure or rejection, difficulty focusing on positive thoughts in challenging moments, lack of motivation due to low energy levels, a sense of isolation or loneliness, difficulty seeing self-worth or finding purpose, feeling overwhelmed by the state of your emotions and mental health. If you have anxiety, grief, or chronic pain, life can be hard. I’m here to help you make it easier. Even though it may feel like happiness is unattainable right now. Together, we can explore the roots of your struggles and find ways to create lasting change.
I specialize in helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, grief, and/or chronic pain.
You want to experience more joy and fulfillment in your life, but you struggle with fear of failure or rejection, difficulty focusing on positive thoughts in challenging moments, lack of motivation due to low energy levels, a sense of isolation or loneliness, difficulty seeing self-worth or finding purpose, feeling overwhelmed by the state of your emotions and mental health. If you have anxiety, grief, or chronic pain, life can be hard. I’m here to help you make it easier. Even though it may feel like happiness is unattainable right now. Together, we can explore the roots of your struggles and find ways to create lasting change.
(830) 460-5630 View (830) 460-5630
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Chronic Pain Therapists

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.