Chronic Pain Therapists in Charlottesville, VA

Photo of Derrick Samuel Pegg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Derrick Samuel Pegg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902  (Online Only)
For me, therapy is about creating a nonjudgemental space where you feel comfortable to express whatever it is that you took time out of your week to talk about. In our sessions, we will work together to identify your goals and develop strategies to achieve them. My goal is to help you discover the tools and insights needed to navigate life with greater ease and confidence. I have extensive experience working with the 2SLGBTQ+ community, neurodivergence, chronic pain, HIV, and other chronic health issues.
For me, therapy is about creating a nonjudgemental space where you feel comfortable to express whatever it is that you took time out of your week to talk about. In our sessions, we will work together to identify your goals and develop strategies to achieve them. My goal is to help you discover the tools and insights needed to navigate life with greater ease and confidence. I have extensive experience working with the 2SLGBTQ+ community, neurodivergence, chronic pain, HIV, and other chronic health issues.
(804) 575-7950 View (804) 575-7950
Photo of Lora D Baum, PhD, Psychologist
Lora D Baum
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901  (Online Only)
My experience of 15 years at the University of Virginia Cancer Center and 4 years at the UVA Pain Management Center combine to allow me to help patients and families at any stage or phase of cancer diagnosis, treatment, recovery or ongoing illness.
Chronic illness or pain present unique challenges for individuals and families. Using cognitive behavioral therapy, learn to live a better and healthier life. I specialize in helping people with chronic medical conditions improve their physical and emotional functioning. Do you have chronic headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic low back pain, or fibromyalgia? Each of these conditions can be alleviated by using psychological treatments. Having chronic pain is a stress in and of itself. I help you to make changes that can also improve sleep and mood.
My experience of 15 years at the University of Virginia Cancer Center and 4 years at the UVA Pain Management Center combine to allow me to help patients and families at any stage or phase of cancer diagnosis, treatment, recovery or ongoing illness.
Chronic illness or pain present unique challenges for individuals and families. Using cognitive behavioral therapy, learn to live a better and healthier life. I specialize in helping people with chronic medical conditions improve their physical and emotional functioning. Do you have chronic headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic low back pain, or fibromyalgia? Each of these conditions can be alleviated by using psychological treatments. Having chronic pain is a stress in and of itself. I help you to make changes that can also improve sleep and mood.
(434) 336-3277 View (434) 336-3277
Photo of Lynessa Sheppard Plotnick, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynessa Sheppard Plotnick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901
More about specialties: I work with children 18 months and up; specialize in working with children and adult children of alcoholics, patients with chronic pain, patients experiencing depression and or anxiety, patients with ADHD, couples and whole families.
I believe in the human spirit and our capacity to make positive changes in all aspects of our lives, even in the face of adversity. By exploring our thought patterns, we can better identify feelings that affect our actions on a daily basis. We can then make effective changes that improve the quality of our lives, decreasing stress, anxiety, and depression and providing us with a more peaceful and joyful life. I also believe in the benefit of human interaction with other loving creatures; you will meet my little Yorkie-Poo therapy partner, Mojo, when you come to visit me. He loves children and adults.
More about specialties: I work with children 18 months and up; specialize in working with children and adult children of alcoholics, patients with chronic pain, patients experiencing depression and or anxiety, patients with ADHD, couples and whole families.
I believe in the human spirit and our capacity to make positive changes in all aspects of our lives, even in the face of adversity. By exploring our thought patterns, we can better identify feelings that affect our actions on a daily basis. We can then make effective changes that improve the quality of our lives, decreasing stress, anxiety, and depression and providing us with a more peaceful and joyful life. I also believe in the benefit of human interaction with other loving creatures; you will meet my little Yorkie-Poo therapy partner, Mojo, when you come to visit me. He loves children and adults.
(757) 785-0838 View (757) 785-0838
Photo of Dr. Annelie Guterma, PhD, MSW, LMT
Dr. Annelie Guterma
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, PhD, MSW, LMT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22903
As a therapist, I help individuals, couples, parents, and families navigate the complexities of mental health, personal growth, and emotional well-being. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, blending empathy and expertise to provide a compassionate, supportive space where you can explore your challenges and work toward meaningful, lasting change. My practice focuses on developmental trauma, relationship challenges, chronic pain, anxiety, and existential inquiries. Whether you're facing emotional struggles or seeking personal growth, I offer guidance to foster resilience, insight, and empowerment.
As a therapist, I help individuals, couples, parents, and families navigate the complexities of mental health, personal growth, and emotional well-being. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, blending empathy and expertise to provide a compassionate, supportive space where you can explore your challenges and work toward meaningful, lasting change. My practice focuses on developmental trauma, relationship challenges, chronic pain, anxiety, and existential inquiries. Whether you're facing emotional struggles or seeking personal growth, I offer guidance to foster resilience, insight, and empowerment.
(434) 231-5090 View (434) 231-5090
Photo of Tina R Curran-Taylor, LPC, ACS, ICADC, BC-TMH, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tina R Curran-Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, ICADC, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22902
With the advancement in therapeutic approaches including Emotional Freedom Techniques, Energy Psychology approaches and Internal Family Systems, we can compassionately address the pain you carry without rehashing it over and over again.
Accepting new referrals in Charlottesville. Do you struggle to have strong connections with loved ones, to progress in your life and career? Sometimes you might find that you are tired, struggling to motivate, feel keyed up, react defensively, or use alcohol to relax. Memories of past experiences may find their way into your mind only to distract and create distress. It’s likely you understand what is going on but feel overwhelmed about how to change it or worse, you have tried but haven’t been able to make significant or longstanding changes. This can leave you discouraged and the subject of your inner critic.
With the advancement in therapeutic approaches including Emotional Freedom Techniques, Energy Psychology approaches and Internal Family Systems, we can compassionately address the pain you carry without rehashing it over and over again.
Accepting new referrals in Charlottesville. Do you struggle to have strong connections with loved ones, to progress in your life and career? Sometimes you might find that you are tired, struggling to motivate, feel keyed up, react defensively, or use alcohol to relax. Memories of past experiences may find their way into your mind only to distract and create distress. It’s likely you understand what is going on but feel overwhelmed about how to change it or worse, you have tried but haven’t been able to make significant or longstanding changes. This can leave you discouraged and the subject of your inner critic.
(757) 663-4426 View (757) 663-4426
Photo of Amit Shahane, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Amit Shahane
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
I am a board certified, licensed psychologist dedicated to helping individuals navigate personal and professional challenges on the path toward positive mental health and well-being. With specialized training in trauma, depression, anxiety, sleep, gender and sexual identity, and adjustment to chronic medical illness, I bring years of clinical experience to assist in managing life’s challenges. I also provide a host of assessment services including readiness for surgery evaluations including bariatric and gender-affirming surgery. My approach is rooted in empathy and evidence-based practice to ensure a positive experience.
I am a board certified, licensed psychologist dedicated to helping individuals navigate personal and professional challenges on the path toward positive mental health and well-being. With specialized training in trauma, depression, anxiety, sleep, gender and sexual identity, and adjustment to chronic medical illness, I bring years of clinical experience to assist in managing life’s challenges. I also provide a host of assessment services including readiness for surgery evaluations including bariatric and gender-affirming surgery. My approach is rooted in empathy and evidence-based practice to ensure a positive experience.
(434) 686-6430 View (434) 686-6430
Photo of Jenny Pfeiffer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Pfeiffer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22902
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is to help clients identify, understand, and ultimately change the areas in their lives that have contributed to emotional and relationship pain. I deeply believe that to have the breakthrough we need in current relationships we must understand our history and how it profoundly colors and impacts us as adults. Once we learn to own our history, it no longer owns us.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is to help clients identify, understand, and ultimately change the areas in their lives that have contributed to emotional and relationship pain. I deeply believe that to have the breakthrough we need in current relationships we must understand our history and how it profoundly colors and impacts us as adults. Once we learn to own our history, it no longer owns us.
(757) 269-9833 View (757) 269-9833
Photo of Beverly Morgan-Fullilove, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beverly Morgan-Fullilove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22903
With over 40 years of experience as an LCSW, I specialize in assisting adults facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, aging adjustments, trauma, chronic pain or illness, divorce issues, and coping with loss. I also excel in providing therapy tailored to seniors navigating the complexities of aging. Holding credentials as an LCSW in both Virginia and Louisiana, I'm eager to support you on your journey toward healing. I anticipate the opportunity to connect with you soon!
With over 40 years of experience as an LCSW, I specialize in assisting adults facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, aging adjustments, trauma, chronic pain or illness, divorce issues, and coping with loss. I also excel in providing therapy tailored to seniors navigating the complexities of aging. Holding credentials as an LCSW in both Virginia and Louisiana, I'm eager to support you on your journey toward healing. I anticipate the opportunity to connect with you soon!
(703) 955-3703 View (703) 955-3703
Photo of Gianna Giuoco, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gianna Giuoco
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22903  (Online Only)
Life can present challenges that weigh you down and halt your progress. You may be dealing with a range of emotions like anxiety, fear, irrational thoughts, chronic pain, or low self-esteem that feel overwhelming and overpowering. These negative feelings might be complicating your ability to navigate life. If you're going through difficult life changes or transitions, you might need support to assist you on your journey. Counseling can offer the hope, strength, and courage necessary to inspire you to move in the right direction and achieve harmony in your life.
Life can present challenges that weigh you down and halt your progress. You may be dealing with a range of emotions like anxiety, fear, irrational thoughts, chronic pain, or low self-esteem that feel overwhelming and overpowering. These negative feelings might be complicating your ability to navigate life. If you're going through difficult life changes or transitions, you might need support to assist you on your journey. Counseling can offer the hope, strength, and courage necessary to inspire you to move in the right direction and achieve harmony in your life.
(703) 691-5052 View (703) 691-5052
Photo of Nicole Moriarty - Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, MS , LPC, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22903
We can clear out the noise and pain of the past.
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any moment in our lives that we were unsafe in some way. Big or small, single events or years-long patterns-if we aren't able to process it, we store it.
We can clear out the noise and pain of the past.
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any moment in our lives that we were unsafe in some way. Big or small, single events or years-long patterns-if we aren't able to process it, we store it.
(855) 841-7271 View (855) 841-7271
Photo of Jessica Bayne, BA, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Bayne
Licensed Professional Counselor, BA, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22903  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping my clients through issues such as traumatic experiences, depression, anxiety, relational issues, career stress/burnout, severe mental illness, & other life challenges.
Are you struggling with your overall mental wellbeing? Do you feel overwhelmed, lost, stressed or having difficulties coping with your symptoms of depression, anxiety and/or trauma related symptoms? Have you tried therapy in the past and not seen the progress you were expecting? If you are in need of a supportive, knowledgeable, and understanding therapist to help you make the progress you would like to make, please let me know how I can help! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of VA. Book an appointment at jmariespsychotherapy.clientsecure.me/
I specialize in helping my clients through issues such as traumatic experiences, depression, anxiety, relational issues, career stress/burnout, severe mental illness, & other life challenges.
Are you struggling with your overall mental wellbeing? Do you feel overwhelmed, lost, stressed or having difficulties coping with your symptoms of depression, anxiety and/or trauma related symptoms? Have you tried therapy in the past and not seen the progress you were expecting? If you are in need of a supportive, knowledgeable, and understanding therapist to help you make the progress you would like to make, please let me know how I can help! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of VA. Book an appointment at jmariespsychotherapy.clientsecure.me/
(804) 534-2462 View (804) 534-2462
Photo of Thomas Paulus, PsyD, Psychologist
Thomas Paulus
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22904
We all have suffering in our lives-- it's part of human experience. Too often, however, there is a layer of unnecessary psychological pain caused by unconscious defenses. We often resist painful feelings and the realities they point to. When this happens chronically we can get stuck in our resistance, becoming emotionally and physically sick. So our suffering increases. I work together with patients to build and/or embrace their capacity to honestly and compassionately face, untangle, and accept truths they can no longer resist.
We all have suffering in our lives-- it's part of human experience. Too often, however, there is a layer of unnecessary psychological pain caused by unconscious defenses. We often resist painful feelings and the realities they point to. When this happens chronically we can get stuck in our resistance, becoming emotionally and physically sick. So our suffering increases. I work together with patients to build and/or embrace their capacity to honestly and compassionately face, untangle, and accept truths they can no longer resist.
(540) 215-7694 View (540) 215-7694
Photo of Harriet Lane Baggett - H. Lane Baggett, PhD, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
H. Lane Baggett, PhD
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
I have experience in helping clients with medical conditions, stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, & trauma/abuse, as well as depression & serious mental illness.
In today's fast-paced world it can be hard to feel a sense of connection to to others and even to your own true path and self. You might feel derailed due to past situations, relationships, or difficult or traumatic experiences. I'm here to help you make the changes you need to build on your strengths and develop new skills so you can get back on track and experience the authentic connection and path you seek. I see this process as a journey we take together that involves exploration of important emotions, thoughts, experiences & behaviors, so that you can fulfill your goals on your own terms.
I have experience in helping clients with medical conditions, stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, & trauma/abuse, as well as depression & serious mental illness.
In today's fast-paced world it can be hard to feel a sense of connection to to others and even to your own true path and self. You might feel derailed due to past situations, relationships, or difficult or traumatic experiences. I'm here to help you make the changes you need to build on your strengths and develop new skills so you can get back on track and experience the authentic connection and path you seek. I see this process as a journey we take together that involves exploration of important emotions, thoughts, experiences & behaviors, so that you can fulfill your goals on your own terms.
(540) 425-0750 View (540) 425-0750
Photo of Clare Venus, PhD, CDE, LCP, Psychologist
Clare Venus
Psychologist, PhD, CDE, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22901  (Online Only)
I have a special interest in working with people with chronic illness.
Are you experiencing a crisis in your life, feeling overwhelmed and struggling to cope? Dealing with a major life transition, physical illness or caregiver stress? I have worked with people who suffer with depressed mood, persistent anxiety, chronic illness, pain and disability. These emotional and physical stressors can result in considerable disruption in relationships and work life balance. As a Licensed Psychologist I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches that promote healing and change. I welcome clients from all backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities and sexual orientations.
I have a special interest in working with people with chronic illness.
Are you experiencing a crisis in your life, feeling overwhelmed and struggling to cope? Dealing with a major life transition, physical illness or caregiver stress? I have worked with people who suffer with depressed mood, persistent anxiety, chronic illness, pain and disability. These emotional and physical stressors can result in considerable disruption in relationships and work life balance. As a Licensed Psychologist I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches that promote healing and change. I welcome clients from all backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities and sexual orientations.
(434) 481-1644 View (434) 481-1644
Photo of Sara La Force, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara La Force
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Waitlist for new clients
Hello and Welcome! I specialize in treating adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, relational strain, depression, substance use, and life transitions. Choosing to engage in therapy is a potentially life changing choice and I would love to help you on your path. All individuals deserve a space to be accurately heard and a place to gain insight into the life patterns that have caused them instability and pain. I deeply believe in therapy as a joint and transformative space that can lead people to develop new skills and to discover their unique internal capacity to connect, heal, and thrive.
Hello and Welcome! I specialize in treating adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, relational strain, depression, substance use, and life transitions. Choosing to engage in therapy is a potentially life changing choice and I would love to help you on your path. All individuals deserve a space to be accurately heard and a place to gain insight into the life patterns that have caused them instability and pain. I deeply believe in therapy as a joint and transformative space that can lead people to develop new skills and to discover their unique internal capacity to connect, heal, and thrive.
(434) 830-8118 View (434) 830-8118
Photo of Ashley Patrican, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Patrican
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22901  (Online Only)
I believe that therapy is about the journey towards self-discovery and joining that person on a quest to seek out the answers they already have within themselves. The ideal client is a person who is open to learning, determined to self-improve and committed to the therapeutic relationship. My experiences with mental health range from: autism, mood disorders, postpartum depression, lyme disease, suicide ideation, gender identity concerns,personality disorders, chronic pain, trauma, behavioral management, social skills training, parent training, psychosis to substance use.. My career background is in schools, crisis stabilization, home-based counseling and working with INOVA.
I believe that therapy is about the journey towards self-discovery and joining that person on a quest to seek out the answers they already have within themselves. The ideal client is a person who is open to learning, determined to self-improve and committed to the therapeutic relationship. My experiences with mental health range from: autism, mood disorders, postpartum depression, lyme disease, suicide ideation, gender identity concerns,personality disorders, chronic pain, trauma, behavioral management, social skills training, parent training, psychosis to substance use.. My career background is in schools, crisis stabilization, home-based counseling and working with INOVA.
(571) 474-3064 View (571) 474-3064
Photo of Angela Gilbert - Angela Gilbert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901  (Online Only)
I have 10 years of experience working with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, life stress, college transitions, job stress, caregiver burnout, chronic illness, and adults over age 65.
As a compassionate psychotherapist, I specialize in helping adult individuals and couples navigate life's challenges, especially chronic illness, caregiver stress, grief and loss, job burnout, divorce, separation, and college transitions. Through evidence-based approaches, I'll empower you with coping skills and strategies for personal growth.
I have 10 years of experience working with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, life stress, college transitions, job stress, caregiver burnout, chronic illness, and adults over age 65.
As a compassionate psychotherapist, I specialize in helping adult individuals and couples navigate life's challenges, especially chronic illness, caregiver stress, grief and loss, job burnout, divorce, separation, and college transitions. Through evidence-based approaches, I'll empower you with coping skills and strategies for personal growth.
(571) 771-2284 View (571) 771-2284
Photo of Sabrina Hansen, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sabrina Hansen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m Sabrina and I’m a trauma & grief-informed therapist, dedicated to supporting you through life’s emotional challenges, particularly in the areas of loss—whether that’s from the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or a significant life transition like retirement, job loss or a chronic illness diagnosis. My experience spans hospital-based settings, outpatient therapy, and intensive outpatient/partial hospitalization programs, allowing me to provide compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. Many of my clients have referred to me as their “sunshine,” appreciating the warmth I bring to our work together.
Welcome! I’m Sabrina and I’m a trauma & grief-informed therapist, dedicated to supporting you through life’s emotional challenges, particularly in the areas of loss—whether that’s from the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or a significant life transition like retirement, job loss or a chronic illness diagnosis. My experience spans hospital-based settings, outpatient therapy, and intensive outpatient/partial hospitalization programs, allowing me to provide compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. Many of my clients have referred to me as their “sunshine,” appreciating the warmth I bring to our work together.
(571) 749-2744 View (571) 749-2744
Photo of Claudia Lineweaver, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claudia Lineweaver
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22903
Do you focus on everyone else's needs except your own? Do you find it difficult to put yourself as a priority, always putting your children, work, spouse, parents, friends, or family above your own needs and concerns? Do you struggle with being self-critical and a perfectionist? Has this ever resulted in symptoms of depression, anxiety, compulsive overeating, exhaustion, and/or alcohol abuse in your life?
Do you focus on everyone else's needs except your own? Do you find it difficult to put yourself as a priority, always putting your children, work, spouse, parents, friends, or family above your own needs and concerns? Do you struggle with being self-critical and a perfectionist? Has this ever resulted in symptoms of depression, anxiety, compulsive overeating, exhaustion, and/or alcohol abuse in your life?
(434) 216-0804 View (434) 216-0804
Photo of Beverly Morgan-Fullilove, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beverly Morgan-Fullilove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
Hello, I'm Beverly Morgan-Fullilove, a seasoned licensed clinical social worker with more than four decades of dedicated practice. My focus is on aiding individuals who find themselves frequently overwhelmed, equipping them with distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Together, we'll collaboratively devise strategies tailored to help you navigate your emotional landscape effectively. Adopting a holistic approach, we'll address the interconnected needs of your mind, body, and spirit.
Hello, I'm Beverly Morgan-Fullilove, a seasoned licensed clinical social worker with more than four decades of dedicated practice. My focus is on aiding individuals who find themselves frequently overwhelmed, equipping them with distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Together, we'll collaboratively devise strategies tailored to help you navigate your emotional landscape effectively. Adopting a holistic approach, we'll address the interconnected needs of your mind, body, and spirit.
(571) 336-0898 View (571) 336-0898
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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.