Chronic Pain Therapists in Arlington, VA

Photo of Henriette Kellum, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Henriette Kellum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22207
welcome. I hope that I can be helpful to you. I work with young adults, persons in mid life and older adults who need help with a variety of issues including challenging life events, transition and change, loss, grief, illness, depression, anxiety, caregiving and resource awareness. My goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of my clients who are struggling with life challenges. I do this by listening empathically, guiding my clients through personal exploration and providing support as they do so. I also provide resource information as appropriate.
welcome. I hope that I can be helpful to you. I work with young adults, persons in mid life and older adults who need help with a variety of issues including challenging life events, transition and change, loss, grief, illness, depression, anxiety, caregiving and resource awareness. My goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of my clients who are struggling with life challenges. I do this by listening empathically, guiding my clients through personal exploration and providing support as they do so. I also provide resource information as appropriate.
(703) 957-7735 View (703) 957-7735
Photo of Dr. Laurel Wade, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Laurel Wade
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22203
Dr. Wade specializes in health psychology, particularly the areas of chronic pain, adjustment to chronic illness or injury, weight management, weight loss surgery counseling, disordered eating, body image concerns, and implementing health-promoting lifestyle changes. Dr. Wade practices Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and positive psychology approaches, capitalizing on the strengths of each individual to form a collaborative and holistic treatment plan.
Dr. Wade specializes in health psychology, particularly the areas of chronic pain, adjustment to chronic illness or injury, weight management, weight loss surgery counseling, disordered eating, body image concerns, and implementing health-promoting lifestyle changes. Dr. Wade practices Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and positive psychology approaches, capitalizing on the strengths of each individual to form a collaborative and holistic treatment plan.
(571) 462-6539 View (571) 462-6539
Photo of Natalie Chaykin Pierce, PsyD, Psychologist
Natalie Chaykin Pierce
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203
Pierce provides education about stress physiology, how stress and emotions interact with chronic pain, and how biofeedback and specific relaxation techniques can help.
Dr. Natalie Pierce specializes in the treatment of chronic pain/ illnesses, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, body image concerns, life transitions, and depression. Dr. Pierce is board-certified in biofeedback and practices therapy primarily from CBT/ACT and positive psychology perspectives through a health psychology lens to help patients manage stress, transition after an injury or disease, and cope with pain, loss, feeling “stuck,” anxiety, and depression.
Pierce provides education about stress physiology, how stress and emotions interact with chronic pain, and how biofeedback and specific relaxation techniques can help.
Dr. Natalie Pierce specializes in the treatment of chronic pain/ illnesses, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, body image concerns, life transitions, and depression. Dr. Pierce is board-certified in biofeedback and practices therapy primarily from CBT/ACT and positive psychology perspectives through a health psychology lens to help patients manage stress, transition after an injury or disease, and cope with pain, loss, feeling “stuck,” anxiety, and depression.
(703) 952-5233 View (703) 952-5233
Photo of Lynda Griffin Bull, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynda Griffin Bull
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22202
I have specialized post-graduate training that gently and safely moves individuals through stress related problems, disorders or illnesses.
If life and all it brings leaves you feeling trapped, fearful, depressed, or overwhelmed, I can help. I offer a safe, collaborative, therapeutic experience, uniquely tailored to meet your needs. Together we will move toward success in managing stress, satisfaction in relationships, enjoyment of life, & well-being. I work with issues related to Depression; Grief/Loss; Women's Issues; Adjustment to Change or Loss; Issues associated with Cancer, Chronic illness and/or Pain; Life Transition Issues & Relational problems. Faith based counseling available. Currently I exclusively offer tele-counseling for clients in Arizona and Virginia.
I have specialized post-graduate training that gently and safely moves individuals through stress related problems, disorders or illnesses.
If life and all it brings leaves you feeling trapped, fearful, depressed, or overwhelmed, I can help. I offer a safe, collaborative, therapeutic experience, uniquely tailored to meet your needs. Together we will move toward success in managing stress, satisfaction in relationships, enjoyment of life, & well-being. I work with issues related to Depression; Grief/Loss; Women's Issues; Adjustment to Change or Loss; Issues associated with Cancer, Chronic illness and/or Pain; Life Transition Issues & Relational problems. Faith based counseling available. Currently I exclusively offer tele-counseling for clients in Arizona and Virginia.
(480) 428-0869 View (480) 428-0869
Photo of Carissa L Strohecker Hannum, MA, LCPC, LPC, CCTP, Counselor
Carissa L Strohecker Hannum
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22203
I have a special interest working with individuals with chronic pain, life transitions, and grief/loss.
Welcome, I truly believe that therapy is a brave and courageous choice. I strive to create a warm, empathetic, and safe environment for each client that chooses to work with me. I have a special expertise working with both adolescents and adults with mood disorders. Our relationship will be used as an element of change. Often, I will utilize aspects of our relationship to highlight barriers to change and provide a warm and directive approach to push you towards growth. My approach within our therapeutic relationship tends to be more collaborative and I commonly use interventions including mindfulness, CBT, DBT and attachment theory.
I have a special interest working with individuals with chronic pain, life transitions, and grief/loss.
Welcome, I truly believe that therapy is a brave and courageous choice. I strive to create a warm, empathetic, and safe environment for each client that chooses to work with me. I have a special expertise working with both adolescents and adults with mood disorders. Our relationship will be used as an element of change. Often, I will utilize aspects of our relationship to highlight barriers to change and provide a warm and directive approach to push you towards growth. My approach within our therapeutic relationship tends to be more collaborative and I commonly use interventions including mindfulness, CBT, DBT and attachment theory.
(301) 409-6070 View (301) 409-6070
Photo of Ben Orlando, MA, MFA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ben Orlando
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MFA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22209
I enjoy working with adults, teenagers, couples, and groups, and treat depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, relationship issues, somatic pain, and trauma. From my personal experiences I have learned how important it is to understand the causes of our current behaviors and how challenging it can be to express emotions suppressed over a lifetime. From my professional experience as a long-time university professor, I understand how anxiety and emotional dysregulation can hinder progress in school and work, and how addressing and working through these issues can lead to betterment in all areas of life.
I enjoy working with adults, teenagers, couples, and groups, and treat depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, relationship issues, somatic pain, and trauma. From my personal experiences I have learned how important it is to understand the causes of our current behaviors and how challenging it can be to express emotions suppressed over a lifetime. From my professional experience as a long-time university professor, I understand how anxiety and emotional dysregulation can hinder progress in school and work, and how addressing and working through these issues can lead to betterment in all areas of life.
(703) 260-8922 x119 View (703) 260-8922 x119
Photo of Kelly Redmon Loo, LCSW, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Redmon Loo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22202  (Online Only)
Additionally, I provide therapy to work through goals around stress, depression, chronic illness/ pain, burnout, unmasking, anxiety, and help clients through the complicated emotions surrounding late diagnosis.
Most of my clients come to me in a state of Autistic burnout, although they may not realize what it is at the time. Treating it as depression or anxiety can be counterproductive & only increases burnout symptoms. These clients are also typically seeking a late-diagnosis of ASD and figuring out the best way forward to meet needs that have been masked for years. As a neurodiverse-affirming therapist and diagnostician, I go through the diagnostic process with clients and afterwards we formulate therapeutic goals that are individualized for each person.
Additionally, I provide therapy to work through goals around stress, depression, chronic illness/ pain, burnout, unmasking, anxiety, and help clients through the complicated emotions surrounding late diagnosis.
Most of my clients come to me in a state of Autistic burnout, although they may not realize what it is at the time. Treating it as depression or anxiety can be counterproductive & only increases burnout symptoms. These clients are also typically seeking a late-diagnosis of ASD and figuring out the best way forward to meet needs that have been masked for years. As a neurodiverse-affirming therapist and diagnostician, I go through the diagnostic process with clients and afterwards we formulate therapeutic goals that are individualized for each person.
(571) 470-5374 View (571) 470-5374
Photo of Brooke Haseltine, PhD
Brooke Haseltine
Resident in Psychology, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203
Dr. Haseltine treats clients with eating disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, insomnia, traumatic stress, chronic illness and chronic pain. She also helps clients with stress management and relationship concerns. She works with adolescents 16+ and adults. She has a special interest in supporting other healthcare workers, and students. Dr. Haseltine has worked in a variety of clinical settings, including community mental health centers, inpatient and partially hospitalized levels of care, private practice, and more recently at college counseling centers.
Dr. Haseltine treats clients with eating disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, insomnia, traumatic stress, chronic illness and chronic pain. She also helps clients with stress management and relationship concerns. She works with adolescents 16+ and adults. She has a special interest in supporting other healthcare workers, and students. Dr. Haseltine has worked in a variety of clinical settings, including community mental health centers, inpatient and partially hospitalized levels of care, private practice, and more recently at college counseling centers.
(571) 493-3611 View (571) 493-3611
Photo of Theresa Seffrin, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Theresa Seffrin
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22204  (Online Only)
Pain is stressful.
Are you smart, successful, and juggling a lot, but your days often include feeling drained, plagued, stuck, or like you can't get over a hump? Do you often feel like you hit a brick wall, or missed your boat? Panic? Anxiety? My deep desire is to create a nourishing and healing experience for you. Time does not heal wounds. Awareness and honoring you and your unique process does heal. For more than twenty years, my passion has been exploring and developing empowerment and healing tools to facilitate and enhance people's well-being. My wisdom includes a wholistic approach to health, and I am eager to begin your journey.
Pain is stressful.
Are you smart, successful, and juggling a lot, but your days often include feeling drained, plagued, stuck, or like you can't get over a hump? Do you often feel like you hit a brick wall, or missed your boat? Panic? Anxiety? My deep desire is to create a nourishing and healing experience for you. Time does not heal wounds. Awareness and honoring you and your unique process does heal. For more than twenty years, my passion has been exploring and developing empowerment and healing tools to facilitate and enhance people's well-being. My wisdom includes a wholistic approach to health, and I am eager to begin your journey.
(951) 848-3791 View (951) 848-3791
Photo of Mj Harford, LPC, NCC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mj Harford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22207  (Online Only)
I have a special focus for women who are struggling with chronic illness, infertility, and adjusting postpartum.
Are there areas of your life that, no matter what you seem to do feel “off,” disconnected, or unfulfilled? Despite all your best efforts, do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, overburdened, and craving control? Helping clients connect with their natural ability to heal, change, and grow is the heart of my work as a counselor. Together, we create a plan and develop the skills that allow you to take action towards a more meaningful life.
I have a special focus for women who are struggling with chronic illness, infertility, and adjusting postpartum.
Are there areas of your life that, no matter what you seem to do feel “off,” disconnected, or unfulfilled? Despite all your best efforts, do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, overburdened, and craving control? Helping clients connect with their natural ability to heal, change, and grow is the heart of my work as a counselor. Together, we create a plan and develop the skills that allow you to take action towards a more meaningful life.
(703) 832-8978 View (703) 832-8978
Photo of Andrea Miller, LGPC, MA, NCC
Andrea Miller
Resident in Counseling, LGPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22209
I have worked with various groups such as first responders, medical staff, veterans, international humanitarian workers, law enforcement, journalists, and individuals struggling with fertility, prepartum, postpartum, chronic illness, and couples.
Are you in search of support? Are you struggling with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, personal growth, life transitions, relationship conflict, multicultural issues, religion, spirituality, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or bipolar/mood disorders?
I have worked with various groups such as first responders, medical staff, veterans, international humanitarian workers, law enforcement, journalists, and individuals struggling with fertility, prepartum, postpartum, chronic illness, and couples.
Are you in search of support? Are you struggling with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, personal growth, life transitions, relationship conflict, multicultural issues, religion, spirituality, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or bipolar/mood disorders?
(571) 946-6525 View (571) 946-6525
Photo of Lana Ross, PhD, Psychologist
Lana Ross
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
My areas of interest and treatment specialties include: anxiety, depression, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, chronic pain, health psychology, substance use, sexuality/identity questions, work/life balance, concerns or issues affecting one’s quality of life, and relationship issues.
I believe in helping individuals and couples gain insight and make behavioral changes to improve well-being. I believe empathy is important in the therapeutic alliance and I strive to create a safe space where the client(s) can feel comfortable in therapy and actively engage in treatment. With individuals, my approach to therapy is based in cognitive-behavioral theory, but also flexible and pragmatic, depending on the individual’s needs. With couples, I primarily utilize the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy, and provide strategies to enhance effective communication, strengthen trust, deepen intimacy and manage conflict.
My areas of interest and treatment specialties include: anxiety, depression, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, chronic pain, health psychology, substance use, sexuality/identity questions, work/life balance, concerns or issues affecting one’s quality of life, and relationship issues.
I believe in helping individuals and couples gain insight and make behavioral changes to improve well-being. I believe empathy is important in the therapeutic alliance and I strive to create a safe space where the client(s) can feel comfortable in therapy and actively engage in treatment. With individuals, my approach to therapy is based in cognitive-behavioral theory, but also flexible and pragmatic, depending on the individual’s needs. With couples, I primarily utilize the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy, and provide strategies to enhance effective communication, strengthen trust, deepen intimacy and manage conflict.
(571) 536-7147 View (571) 536-7147
Photo of Meredith Wolrich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Wolrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
I specialize in working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, ADHD, chronic pain/ illness, eating disorders, and/or have concerns related to relationships, parenting, family of origin, career, identity, and life transitions.
When you feel like you are drowning, therapy allows you to come up for air, engage in meaningful self-reflection, and discover what you are made of and how you can be true to yourself going forward. Maybe you're struggling with recognizing and communicating your needs to others, or perhaps life is going really well and you're terrified of messing it up. Whatever your experience is, I can help. My style of practice is authentic, compassionate, and straightforward, and I believe that a sense of humor goes a long way in helping people feel comfortable and connected.
I specialize in working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, ADHD, chronic pain/ illness, eating disorders, and/or have concerns related to relationships, parenting, family of origin, career, identity, and life transitions.
When you feel like you are drowning, therapy allows you to come up for air, engage in meaningful self-reflection, and discover what you are made of and how you can be true to yourself going forward. Maybe you're struggling with recognizing and communicating your needs to others, or perhaps life is going really well and you're terrified of messing it up. Whatever your experience is, I can help. My style of practice is authentic, compassionate, and straightforward, and I believe that a sense of humor goes a long way in helping people feel comfortable and connected.
(703) 420-7461 View (703) 420-7461
Photo of Dr. Taylor Bonanni Hawk, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Taylor Bonanni Hawk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22209  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include chronic illness and/or pain, depression, anxiety, adjustment, relational issues, eating disorders, and burnout prevention.
“Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength” -Sigmund Freud. I work with clients who have felt the heartache of hopelessness, despair, and sadness. Whether the presenting problems stem from anxiety, depression, trauma, eating concerns, or a combination of these or other issues, I aim to help clients learn new ways in which to alleviate some of the negative symptoms associated with dissatisfaction or despair.
My areas of specialty include chronic illness and/or pain, depression, anxiety, adjustment, relational issues, eating disorders, and burnout prevention.
“Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength” -Sigmund Freud. I work with clients who have felt the heartache of hopelessness, despair, and sadness. Whether the presenting problems stem from anxiety, depression, trauma, eating concerns, or a combination of these or other issues, I aim to help clients learn new ways in which to alleviate some of the negative symptoms associated with dissatisfaction or despair.
(703) 420-7120 View (703) 420-7120
Photo of Joanna Chango-James, PhD, Psychologist
Joanna Chango-James
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203  (Online Only)
Dr. Chango-James specializes in the treatment of anxiety (OCD, GAD, Specific Phobias, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, Trichotillomania, Excoriation), trauma and PTSD, insomnia, and chronic pain. Additionally, she is trained to work with couples and families experiencing relationship and communication challenges. She typically works with late adolescents and adults from a variety of backgrounds. Dr. Chango-James believes in the importance of providing empirically supported treatments that fit the individual needs of each patient and integrating evidence-based approaches and scientific research into her psychotherapy practice.
Dr. Chango-James specializes in the treatment of anxiety (OCD, GAD, Specific Phobias, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, Trichotillomania, Excoriation), trauma and PTSD, insomnia, and chronic pain. Additionally, she is trained to work with couples and families experiencing relationship and communication challenges. She typically works with late adolescents and adults from a variety of backgrounds. Dr. Chango-James believes in the importance of providing empirically supported treatments that fit the individual needs of each patient and integrating evidence-based approaches and scientific research into her psychotherapy practice.
(571) 297-8328 View (571) 297-8328
Photo of Thanjina Ahmed, PsyD, Psychologist
Thanjina Ahmed
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22203
I specialize in difficulties for second-generation immigrants, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, depression, pre and post-partum challenges, family conflict, identity challenges, grief/loss, insomnia, sleep issues, chronic pain, health changes, problems with focus or ADHD, substance abuse, military adjustment, and general adjustment difficulties.
I specialize in difficulties for second-generation immigrants, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, depression, pre and post-partum challenges, family conflict, identity challenges, grief/loss, insomnia, sleep issues, chronic pain, health changes, problems with focus or ADHD, substance abuse, military adjustment, and general adjustment difficulties.
(571) 932-3893 View (571) 932-3893
Photo of Dr. Eric Teeters, PsyD, PsyPact, Psychologist
Dr. Eric Teeters
Psychologist, PsyD, PsyPact
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22209
Recognizing each person's uniqueness, I address a range of issues, including chronic illness (like IBS), health anxiety, OCD, sexual identity, life transitions, climate grief, and trauma.
I have the privilege of guiding clients through both their toughest challenges and greatest joys. I focus on health psychology, helping you enhance your relationship with yourself and balance your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and energy. My evidence-based, insight-oriented approach empowers you with the skills and strategies needed to prioritize self-care and unlock your fullest potential. Together, we'll create a vision for the life you aspire to lead.
Recognizing each person's uniqueness, I address a range of issues, including chronic illness (like IBS), health anxiety, OCD, sexual identity, life transitions, climate grief, and trauma.
I have the privilege of guiding clients through both their toughest challenges and greatest joys. I focus on health psychology, helping you enhance your relationship with yourself and balance your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and energy. My evidence-based, insight-oriented approach empowers you with the skills and strategies needed to prioritize self-care and unlock your fullest potential. Together, we'll create a vision for the life you aspire to lead.
(571) 496-8012 View (571) 496-8012
Photo of Dr. Shondolyn Sanders, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Shondolyn Sanders
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
I have experience in treating adults & adolescents with a range of mental health and medical challenges, including sexual trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship stress, self-esteem, chronic pain & insomnia.
Have you been considering seeking help from a mental health professional? Or maybe you’ve decided to give therapy another try. The foundation of an effective therapeutic relationship begins with finding a therapist with whom you have a good fit and connection. I will meet you with compassion and empathy, while also guiding you towards self-exploration and increased awareness. I believe that we navigate life and view the world through a lens influenced by our society and culture. I will support you in your process of becoming more of the person you want to be and help you commit to actions that align with your desired goals.
I have experience in treating adults & adolescents with a range of mental health and medical challenges, including sexual trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship stress, self-esteem, chronic pain & insomnia.
Have you been considering seeking help from a mental health professional? Or maybe you’ve decided to give therapy another try. The foundation of an effective therapeutic relationship begins with finding a therapist with whom you have a good fit and connection. I will meet you with compassion and empathy, while also guiding you towards self-exploration and increased awareness. I believe that we navigate life and view the world through a lens influenced by our society and culture. I will support you in your process of becoming more of the person you want to be and help you commit to actions that align with your desired goals.
(844) 775-0048 x7 View (844) 775-0048 x7
Photo of Elke Schlager, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elke Schlager
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22205
I have special interests in helping patients who are undergoing life transitions such as separation and divorce, bereavement, career, acculturation and chronic illness.
I am a Harvard trained psychotherapist with over 20 years of clinical experience, the last 10 of which have been focused on the practice and research of Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). I am a research associate at the Psychotherapy Research Program at Harvard Medical School, and a former faculty member at the Mind/Body Medical Institute at Massachussets General Hospital in Boston, MA. I practice a model of ISTDP that has evolved from over 50 years of psychotherapy research. This model incorporates aspects of psychodynamic psychotherapy, attachment theory, mindfulness and experiential therapy.
I have special interests in helping patients who are undergoing life transitions such as separation and divorce, bereavement, career, acculturation and chronic illness.
I am a Harvard trained psychotherapist with over 20 years of clinical experience, the last 10 of which have been focused on the practice and research of Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). I am a research associate at the Psychotherapy Research Program at Harvard Medical School, and a former faculty member at the Mind/Body Medical Institute at Massachussets General Hospital in Boston, MA. I practice a model of ISTDP that has evolved from over 50 years of psychotherapy research. This model incorporates aspects of psychodynamic psychotherapy, attachment theory, mindfulness and experiential therapy.
(703) 468-8786 View (703) 468-8786
Photo of Shannon Fowler, LCP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Fowler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCP
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22204
I am Shannon Fowler. I have a PhD in clinical psychology. I try to approach therapy as a collaborative process with each person. I also try to create an environment that is safe and respectful. I have experience entreating many different types of mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders. I also have experience helping with behavior change around medical issues like diabetes, obesity, chronic pain, etc.
I am Shannon Fowler. I have a PhD in clinical psychology. I try to approach therapy as a collaborative process with each person. I also try to create an environment that is safe and respectful. I have experience entreating many different types of mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders. I also have experience helping with behavior change around medical issues like diabetes, obesity, chronic pain, etc.
(571) 605-7399 View (571) 605-7399
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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.