Chronic Pain Therapists in Jacksonville, FL

Photo of Lisa Angel - Lisa Angel, Counseling/Supervision LLC, BS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Angel, Counseling/Supervision LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223  (Online Only)
Sometimes it's hard to reach out for help. There are pressures to perform, to look like we have no emotional or physical pain. Many of us are guarded and have our walls up because we have been hurt so badly. Some might say that you're not strong because you need to see a therapist, or you've been taught not to air your dirty laundry. I'm here to encourage you that there is virtually nothing that can't be helped in a good client therapist relationship. Timing is very important too. My ideal client is ready to enter into therapy. They are willing to try new skills to meet their goals in therapy, and enjoys a direct approach.
Sometimes it's hard to reach out for help. There are pressures to perform, to look like we have no emotional or physical pain. Many of us are guarded and have our walls up because we have been hurt so badly. Some might say that you're not strong because you need to see a therapist, or you've been taught not to air your dirty laundry. I'm here to encourage you that there is virtually nothing that can't be helped in a good client therapist relationship. Timing is very important too. My ideal client is ready to enter into therapy. They are willing to try new skills to meet their goals in therapy, and enjoys a direct approach.
(904) 572-7112 View (904) 572-7112
Photo of Alana Sadhu, LMHC, MA, CDAC, Counselor
Alana Sadhu
Counselor, LMHC, MA, CDAC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
My various specialties are providing therapeutic guidance and support from a peer-based & evidence-based lens to those facing chronic pain conditions, chronic illnesses, those who deal with perfectionism, ethnic minorities, first-generation Americans, couples looking to improve their relationship, treating survivors of narcissistic abuse, and complex-PTSD.
If you feel like you just can't seem to find the right therapist for you, give me a call. I will happily provide a free consultation over the phone or virtually, even if I am not the person for you I can guide you in the direction you would like to go! Finding the right therapist for you is half the battle and it is a vulnerable and sometimes challenging process. I respect the fact that picking up the phone or even going on this website is nerve wracking and I know that it took a lot to even get you here. I am an unconventional therapist. I guide treatment with empathy first. I utilize evidence-based techniques unique to your needs.
My various specialties are providing therapeutic guidance and support from a peer-based & evidence-based lens to those facing chronic pain conditions, chronic illnesses, those who deal with perfectionism, ethnic minorities, first-generation Americans, couples looking to improve their relationship, treating survivors of narcissistic abuse, and complex-PTSD.
If you feel like you just can't seem to find the right therapist for you, give me a call. I will happily provide a free consultation over the phone or virtually, even if I am not the person for you I can guide you in the direction you would like to go! Finding the right therapist for you is half the battle and it is a vulnerable and sometimes challenging process. I respect the fact that picking up the phone or even going on this website is nerve wracking and I know that it took a lot to even get you here. I am an unconventional therapist. I guide treatment with empathy first. I utilize evidence-based techniques unique to your needs.
(321) 221-5090 View (321) 221-5090
Photo of Edgar Leopold Anderson, BSN, MSHSA, PhD
Edgar Leopold Anderson
BSN, MSHSA, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32258
Self-help for pain, smoking cessation, craving, anger, tinnitus, stress management, allergies, anxiety and depression.
Having a tough time? Like to take charge of your life in a relaxed manner? Reach enlightenment through self-management of hypnosis, biofeedback, Chakra meditation, acupressure and sound therapy. I see addicted and non-addicted patients to resolve symptomatic complaints. Here's your chance to explore self-healing properties. Sessions $160 (cash/check). Treatment continues until an agreed upon level of relief has been reached. Out of network health insurance available. Use video + teletherapy for most sessions. Please call free for consultations and more details.
Self-help for pain, smoking cessation, craving, anger, tinnitus, stress management, allergies, anxiety and depression.
Having a tough time? Like to take charge of your life in a relaxed manner? Reach enlightenment through self-management of hypnosis, biofeedback, Chakra meditation, acupressure and sound therapy. I see addicted and non-addicted patients to resolve symptomatic complaints. Here's your chance to explore self-healing properties. Sessions $160 (cash/check). Treatment continues until an agreed upon level of relief has been reached. Out of network health insurance available. Use video + teletherapy for most sessions. Please call free for consultations and more details.
(904) 551-1394 View (904) 551-1394
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Milne, PsyD, BCB, BCB-HRV, CPM, Psychologist
Dr. Stephanie Milne
Psychologist, PsyD, BCB, BCB-HRV, CPM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32207
My specialties are brain injury, complex medical problems, chronic pain, anxiety, stress management, life transitions, disabilities, and personal and professional development.
Most of the time people manage their lives very well. Sometimes, they need some direction or focus to get back on the right path. I take the time to get to know my patients, to know what matters to them and then use that information to help motivate, guide, and inspire them to make the changes they need to make in order to live their life committed to their goals and values. It is often not an easy road, but together, great things can happen!
My specialties are brain injury, complex medical problems, chronic pain, anxiety, stress management, life transitions, disabilities, and personal and professional development.
Most of the time people manage their lives very well. Sometimes, they need some direction or focus to get back on the right path. I take the time to get to know my patients, to know what matters to them and then use that information to help motivate, guide, and inspire them to make the changes they need to make in order to live their life committed to their goals and values. It is often not an easy road, but together, great things can happen!
(904) 685-8756 View (904) 685-8756
Photo of LaWanda Thomas, LMFT, RN, Marriage & Family Therapist
LaWanda Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32258  (Online Only)
I specialize in premarital counseling, marriage & family therapy, grief, emotional wounds, chronic illness, and seniors' family conflict.
Life is a GIFT. I believe in this life, we all have special assignments. It is with honor, gratitude, and appreciation that I have accepted my assignment of helping others via Nursing and Counseling. With the world in such chaos, it is a challenge to navigate our spiritual, physical, and emotional health and wholeness. It is my aim to connect with my clients at the point of their hurt. Clients are usually hurting or struggling with childhood emotional trauma, grief (loss of a loved one, a relationship, or loss of themselves), depression, overwhelming life events, anxiety, or self-esteem issues.
I specialize in premarital counseling, marriage & family therapy, grief, emotional wounds, chronic illness, and seniors' family conflict.
Life is a GIFT. I believe in this life, we all have special assignments. It is with honor, gratitude, and appreciation that I have accepted my assignment of helping others via Nursing and Counseling. With the world in such chaos, it is a challenge to navigate our spiritual, physical, and emotional health and wholeness. It is my aim to connect with my clients at the point of their hurt. Clients are usually hurting or struggling with childhood emotional trauma, grief (loss of a loved one, a relationship, or loss of themselves), depression, overwhelming life events, anxiety, or self-esteem issues.
(904) 694-5385 View (904) 694-5385
Photo of Christy Holliday, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Christy Holliday
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
I have extensive training and study in Mind Body Pain Psychology, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, Attachment Theory and Somatic Experiencing.
My desire is to provide each client the opportunity to find HOPE. Hope for understanding, healing and growth. Hope for freedom, joy, and peace. Hope for wholeness and real, true rest. The truth is, life is hard. We often find ourselves confused, disillusioned, disappointed, angry, sad, afraid, addicted or simply numb to it all. The process of counseling can and does often lead a person to a place of newfound hope, where one can experience the broken parts of their stories and relationships restored.
I have extensive training and study in Mind Body Pain Psychology, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, Attachment Theory and Somatic Experiencing.
My desire is to provide each client the opportunity to find HOPE. Hope for understanding, healing and growth. Hope for freedom, joy, and peace. Hope for wholeness and real, true rest. The truth is, life is hard. We often find ourselves confused, disillusioned, disappointed, angry, sad, afraid, addicted or simply numb to it all. The process of counseling can and does often lead a person to a place of newfound hope, where one can experience the broken parts of their stories and relationships restored.
(352) 478-4519 View (352) 478-4519
Photo of Jessica Bell - Mosaic Minds Counseling, LLC
Mosaic Minds Counseling, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32226  (Online Only)
Telehealth therapy for OCD, anxiety, and trauma from the comfort of your own home! Our therapists are licensed in Florida, Colorado, and South Carolina. Additional specializations that some of our clinicians have are within the areas of grief, depression, ADHD, processing chronic illnesses/chronic pain, processing family dynamics, attachment issues, and more. Studies have also started to show that ERP for OCD through telehealth may be more effective than and faster!
Telehealth therapy for OCD, anxiety, and trauma from the comfort of your own home! Our therapists are licensed in Florida, Colorado, and South Carolina. Additional specializations that some of our clinicians have are within the areas of grief, depression, ADHD, processing chronic illnesses/chronic pain, processing family dynamics, attachment issues, and more. Studies have also started to show that ERP for OCD through telehealth may be more effective than and faster!
(904) 467-4668 View (904) 467-4668
Photo of Nada Frazier, MSW, RCSWI
Nada Frazier
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32216
I support people in planning/adjusting to life transitions such as loss, grieving, coping with a diagnosis/chronic illness (patient &/or loved ones) and pain, caregiving, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, and depression. We will focus on you as the expert of your life and identify your strengths to help in your personal growth, self-discovery, and development. We will collaboratively add tools to your life skills toolbox. I also work with professionals experiencing career transitions, compassion fatigue, and burnout and help develop practical and empowering self-care practices, increased functioning, and life fulfillment.
I support people in planning/adjusting to life transitions such as loss, grieving, coping with a diagnosis/chronic illness (patient &/or loved ones) and pain, caregiving, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, and depression. We will focus on you as the expert of your life and identify your strengths to help in your personal growth, self-discovery, and development. We will collaboratively add tools to your life skills toolbox. I also work with professionals experiencing career transitions, compassion fatigue, and burnout and help develop practical and empowering self-care practices, increased functioning, and life fulfillment.
(904) 849-9704 View (904) 849-9704
Photo of Melanie Juli, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melanie Juli
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
My specialties include marriage and relationship issues, family systems issues, co-dependency, addiction, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and chronic pain.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned a BA in Interdisciplinary Arts and Humanities from Florida Atlantic University in 2009. I then went on to earn a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University in 2012, which I did in 2013. I have had experience working with a variety of different clients in multiple settings. I have extensive experience treating clients with addiction disorders as well as working with their families and loved ones who are working on their own program of recovery as well.
My specialties include marriage and relationship issues, family systems issues, co-dependency, addiction, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and chronic pain.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned a BA in Interdisciplinary Arts and Humanities from Florida Atlantic University in 2009. I then went on to earn a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University in 2012, which I did in 2013. I have had experience working with a variety of different clients in multiple settings. I have extensive experience treating clients with addiction disorders as well as working with their families and loved ones who are working on their own program of recovery as well.
(321) 710-0407 View (321) 710-0407
Photo of Dr. Ellen A Williams, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Ellen A Williams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32250  (Online Only)
As a clinical psychologist, I understand the challenges of mental illness and the loneliness and confusion it can sometimes bring. It may be difficult to feel hopeful about getting better. Fortunately, there are many evidence-based treatments that can make a big difference in your life. I offer online psychotherapy to teens, adults, and seniors who are seeking a path towards a better life. My practice centers on addressing depression, and bipolar disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, ADD/ADHD, women's issues, life transitions, and behavioral medicine concerns such as navigating healthcare and chronic medical conditions.
As a clinical psychologist, I understand the challenges of mental illness and the loneliness and confusion it can sometimes bring. It may be difficult to feel hopeful about getting better. Fortunately, there are many evidence-based treatments that can make a big difference in your life. I offer online psychotherapy to teens, adults, and seniors who are seeking a path towards a better life. My practice centers on addressing depression, and bipolar disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, ADD/ADHD, women's issues, life transitions, and behavioral medicine concerns such as navigating healthcare and chronic medical conditions.
(904) 780-6371 View (904) 780-6371
Photo of Marie Greco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marie Greco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32218
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in the state of Florida, with over 10 years of experience working with children, teens and families. My passion is helping children and adolescents reach their goals, feel better, and improve short term and long term functioning. My focus is working with individuals who have experienced a trauma(s), have trouble adjusting to life changes, display behavioral problems at home or in school, live with a chronic illness, struggle with substance abuse, have low self esteem, anxiety, depression and/or difficulty regulating their moods.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in the state of Florida, with over 10 years of experience working with children, teens and families. My passion is helping children and adolescents reach their goals, feel better, and improve short term and long term functioning. My focus is working with individuals who have experienced a trauma(s), have trouble adjusting to life changes, display behavioral problems at home or in school, live with a chronic illness, struggle with substance abuse, have low self esteem, anxiety, depression and/or difficulty regulating their moods.
(904) 901-4312 View (904) 901-4312
Photo of Hannah Bose, RMHCI, E-CYT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hannah Bose
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI, E-CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32205
I work with clients highly motivated to grow through trauma, panic, OCD, anxiety, stress, acute and chronic illness, chronic pain, and relationship issues. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a somatic and embodiment lens, recognizing the interconnectedness of body and mind in the healing process. I help people break out of old patterns and bridge the gap between where they are and where they want to be. Through gaining greater self-awareness, healing wounds, and building skills you can overcome blocks to living your most liberated and authentic life.
I work with clients highly motivated to grow through trauma, panic, OCD, anxiety, stress, acute and chronic illness, chronic pain, and relationship issues. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a somatic and embodiment lens, recognizing the interconnectedness of body and mind in the healing process. I help people break out of old patterns and bridge the gap between where they are and where they want to be. Through gaining greater self-awareness, healing wounds, and building skills you can overcome blocks to living your most liberated and authentic life.
(904) 638-3209 View (904) 638-3209
Photo of Letha Page, LCSW, MCAP, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Letha Page
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP, QS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
You want to change and I believe anyone can learn how to create and foster a meaningful life. My work in therapy will be collaborative, educational, strengths-based, and solution-focused to tailor to your unique needs. Together we will work on life transitions, emotional stress, relationship struggles, or discord from chronic illness or pain. I provide interactive sessions to support and guide you when you are struggling with personal life challenges and complex relationship issues. I believe you know when it’s time to look for assistance to promote the change you want in your life. Let me be part of that journey with you.
You want to change and I believe anyone can learn how to create and foster a meaningful life. My work in therapy will be collaborative, educational, strengths-based, and solution-focused to tailor to your unique needs. Together we will work on life transitions, emotional stress, relationship struggles, or discord from chronic illness or pain. I provide interactive sessions to support and guide you when you are struggling with personal life challenges and complex relationship issues. I believe you know when it’s time to look for assistance to promote the change you want in your life. Let me be part of that journey with you.
(904) 368-6549 View (904) 368-6549
Photo of Dr. Teresa Young - Generations Psychological & Consultation Services , PhD, Psychologist
Generations Psychological & Consultation Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32224  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to do things you enjoy as you age? Are you overwhelmed caring for someone with a severe disability or dementia? Are you having a hard time adjusting to a chronic illness? There's support out there just for you. For your convenience, I offer telehealth sessions in Florida, Iowa, and I'm PsyPact certified.
Are you struggling to do things you enjoy as you age? Are you overwhelmed caring for someone with a severe disability or dementia? Are you having a hard time adjusting to a chronic illness? There's support out there just for you. For your convenience, I offer telehealth sessions in Florida, Iowa, and I'm PsyPact certified.
(904) 830-6570 View (904) 830-6570
Photo of Rebecca Buch, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Rebecca Buch
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
ADHD assessments for 504/IEP available. Are you struggling to bring your life under control? Are you feeling helpless with your loved ones? Allow me to help you bring balance back to your life and achieve your goals. I have the skills, experience, and education to help you with anxiety, depression, ASD, OCD, BP, trauma, parenting/co-parenting, LGBTQIA2+ issues, and more. I have success with helping clients recover from the pain of loss, divorce, separation, and empty nest syndrome. I can assist you, or your loved one, in preparing for significant life changes in a career or selecting and preparing for college. I am here to help you.
ADHD assessments for 504/IEP available. Are you struggling to bring your life under control? Are you feeling helpless with your loved ones? Allow me to help you bring balance back to your life and achieve your goals. I have the skills, experience, and education to help you with anxiety, depression, ASD, OCD, BP, trauma, parenting/co-parenting, LGBTQIA2+ issues, and more. I have success with helping clients recover from the pain of loss, divorce, separation, and empty nest syndrome. I can assist you, or your loved one, in preparing for significant life changes in a career or selecting and preparing for college. I am here to help you.
(904) 664-4645 View (904) 664-4645
Photo of Polly A Charette, LCSW, BCD, ACSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Polly A Charette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, ACSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
As a licensed psychotherapist for over 20 years, I specialize in PTSD, anxiety, chronic pain, brain injury, somatic symptoms, disturbance from memories, small and large traumas, personal growth, Adult ADD and mood disorders.
Every person goes through a period in their life where they desire to make changes, face difficulties, find the courage to challenge themselves, or simply find that their old ways are no longer serving them in their life. I take the time to understand each client in order to tailor their treatment to their uniques circumstances. In my practice I thoroughly believe that a connection between therapist and client is the foundation for healing and change. It is an honor to provide the services that I do. My goal is to provide a nonjudgmental safe place for healing.
As a licensed psychotherapist for over 20 years, I specialize in PTSD, anxiety, chronic pain, brain injury, somatic symptoms, disturbance from memories, small and large traumas, personal growth, Adult ADD and mood disorders.
Every person goes through a period in their life where they desire to make changes, face difficulties, find the courage to challenge themselves, or simply find that their old ways are no longer serving them in their life. I take the time to understand each client in order to tailor their treatment to their uniques circumstances. In my practice I thoroughly believe that a connection between therapist and client is the foundation for healing and change. It is an honor to provide the services that I do. My goal is to provide a nonjudgmental safe place for healing.
(904) 674-3747 View (904) 674-3747
Photo of Walter Mcclinton - Walter McClinton RMHCI, MS, RMHCI
Walter McClinton RMHCI
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32258
Ideally, I want the client to be willing to peel back those layers of pain through understanding, believing truly in themselves along with what they are willing to work towards. Painting a better version of themselves and their plans to accomplish it. In addition, I am well versed in utilizing "Learning Mindfulness, Emotional Regulation, and Distress Tolerance" to assist clients with accomplishing their goals.
Ideally, I want the client to be willing to peel back those layers of pain through understanding, believing truly in themselves along with what they are willing to work towards. Painting a better version of themselves and their plans to accomplish it. In addition, I am well versed in utilizing "Learning Mindfulness, Emotional Regulation, and Distress Tolerance" to assist clients with accomplishing their goals.
(904) 966-4707 View (904) 966-4707
Photo of Jennifer Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, numb, or just not yourself? Are you feeling stuck or lost in life or your relationships? I offer a safe environment in which you can gain support and guidance in navigating the difficult challenges you face. I am passionate about helping you to find solutions to your problems and build strong and healthy relationships in your life. I'm here to help you get through the tough times and feel like yourself again. As a therapist who specializes in relationships, I will help you discover ways to strengthen your connections with others or find healing from the pain that can often come from those connections.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, numb, or just not yourself? Are you feeling stuck or lost in life or your relationships? I offer a safe environment in which you can gain support and guidance in navigating the difficult challenges you face. I am passionate about helping you to find solutions to your problems and build strong and healthy relationships in your life. I'm here to help you get through the tough times and feel like yourself again. As a therapist who specializes in relationships, I will help you discover ways to strengthen your connections with others or find healing from the pain that can often come from those connections.
(904) 295-1780 View (904) 295-1780
Photo of Stephanie Peyton, LCSW-QS, DMCP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Peyton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-QS, DMCP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Waitlist for new clients
Have you experienced difficult events, some beyond your control? Perhaps you struggle adjusting to "new norms" in your life, endure panic attacks, or have to force yourself to face each day. At some point, most of us are affected by traumatic events. Complex grief; abuse; military combat; abandonment; assault; chronic pain; and divorce are just a few examples. These experiences can leave us depressed, anxious, fearful or battling post-traumatic stress. They can leave us exhausted without the strength or resources to manage them.
Have you experienced difficult events, some beyond your control? Perhaps you struggle adjusting to "new norms" in your life, endure panic attacks, or have to force yourself to face each day. At some point, most of us are affected by traumatic events. Complex grief; abuse; military combat; abandonment; assault; chronic pain; and divorce are just a few examples. These experiences can leave us depressed, anxious, fearful or battling post-traumatic stress. They can leave us exhausted without the strength or resources to manage them.
(904) 872-8374 View (904) 872-8374
Photo of Melissa C LaManna, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Melissa C LaManna
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32204  (Online Only)
It is my professional and personal belief that people can transcend most any pain with the right support from others, as well as by developing greater insight, emotional resilience, and self-compassion.
Asking for help from a friend or loved one can be difficult, especially when you are struggling with feelings of sadness or anxiety. How do I share something so personal with someone else? What will they think? The obstacles we encounter may seem overwhelming at times, particularly if paired with feelings of sadness or anxiety. But these feelings are very normal and indicative of struggle, whether it be conflict with a loved one or a pattern of undue self-criticism. Counseling can provide a therapeutic space for individuals to share their problems, to discover healthier ways of coping and to develop deeper relations with others.
It is my professional and personal belief that people can transcend most any pain with the right support from others, as well as by developing greater insight, emotional resilience, and self-compassion.
Asking for help from a friend or loved one can be difficult, especially when you are struggling with feelings of sadness or anxiety. How do I share something so personal with someone else? What will they think? The obstacles we encounter may seem overwhelming at times, particularly if paired with feelings of sadness or anxiety. But these feelings are very normal and indicative of struggle, whether it be conflict with a loved one or a pattern of undue self-criticism. Counseling can provide a therapeutic space for individuals to share their problems, to discover healthier ways of coping and to develop deeper relations with others.
(904) 977-6746 View (904) 977-6746

See more therapy options for Jacksonville

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.