Chronic Pain Therapists in Miami Beach, FL

Photo of Danna Pycher - Transformation Clinic by Danna Pycher, NLP, CHT, CPLC
Transformation Clinic by Danna Pycher
NLP, CHT, CPLC
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Sometimes, just talking through issues won't get to the core of what is actually happening in your mind. Hypnotherapy is the most effective modality to help you get to the root of the issue so you can move forward with your life! I specialize in people with trauma and chronic illness because I can relate, as I have been there before. I am passionate about helping people get to their best life as soon as possible. I use a unique hybrid of Hypnotherapy, Neuro- Linguistic Programming, and Life Coaching to ensure the best possible care.
Sometimes, just talking through issues won't get to the core of what is actually happening in your mind. Hypnotherapy is the most effective modality to help you get to the root of the issue so you can move forward with your life! I specialize in people with trauma and chronic illness because I can relate, as I have been there before. I am passionate about helping people get to their best life as soon as possible. I use a unique hybrid of Hypnotherapy, Neuro- Linguistic Programming, and Life Coaching to ensure the best possible care.
(754) 333-6649 View (754) 333-6649
Photo of Teresa Cote - Teresa Cote @Healing Place Counseling LLC, MA , LMHC, LPC
Teresa Cote @Healing Place Counseling LLC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA , LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139  (Online Only)
As a trauma therapist, I work with many individuals facing deep heartache and struggles that sometimes feel too overwhelming and scary. Trauma can be triggered from some experiences such as past abuse, grief, chronic illness, or being a witness to traumatic events. This can also lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, panic, fear, phobias, irrational fears, and agitation. Trauma can also lead to negative coping skills such as addictive patterns and behaviors. I can walk alongside you in a journey of healing and assist you in coming to a place of safety and peace and help you overcome and move you towards a place of healing!
As a trauma therapist, I work with many individuals facing deep heartache and struggles that sometimes feel too overwhelming and scary. Trauma can be triggered from some experiences such as past abuse, grief, chronic illness, or being a witness to traumatic events. This can also lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, panic, fear, phobias, irrational fears, and agitation. Trauma can also lead to negative coping skills such as addictive patterns and behaviors. I can walk alongside you in a journey of healing and assist you in coming to a place of safety and peace and help you overcome and move you towards a place of healing!
(786) 321-3840 View (786) 321-3840
Photo of Terry Ann Dornak, PsyD, Psychologist
Terry Ann Dornak
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Some of the common issues I help my clients address include chronic pain, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, trauma, and LGBTQ+ related issues.
It is my goal to provide you with a safe, therapeutic space to unload and explore your needs, worries, and fears whatever they may be. The path to healing is unique for each of us. We will work collaboratively towards meeting your goals and needs, and in doing so, make your life more comfortable and satisfying. It is my hope that each person who meets with me feels accepted, as I respect each individual's culture, gender, race, religion, and sexual identity.
Some of the common issues I help my clients address include chronic pain, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, trauma, and LGBTQ+ related issues.
It is my goal to provide you with a safe, therapeutic space to unload and explore your needs, worries, and fears whatever they may be. The path to healing is unique for each of us. We will work collaboratively towards meeting your goals and needs, and in doing so, make your life more comfortable and satisfying. It is my hope that each person who meets with me feels accepted, as I respect each individual's culture, gender, race, religion, and sexual identity.
(847) 532-3007 View (847) 532-3007
Photo of Neil Wolfson, MEd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neil Wolfson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33140  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, chronic illness, or relationship challenges? If you’re in pain, overwhelmed, or feel unable to pull yourself out of your circumstances, I can help. Using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, EMDR Therapy (trauma therapy), Motivational Interviewing, and the Gottman Method for Couples Counseling, I can help you feel relief from your pain, gain more control of your life, and find a sense of purpose and direction.
Do you feel stuck? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, chronic illness, or relationship challenges? If you’re in pain, overwhelmed, or feel unable to pull yourself out of your circumstances, I can help. Using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, EMDR Therapy (trauma therapy), Motivational Interviewing, and the Gottman Method for Couples Counseling, I can help you feel relief from your pain, gain more control of your life, and find a sense of purpose and direction.
(561) 425-6552 View (561) 425-6552
Photo of Jaclyn Jardine, PMHNP
Jaclyn Jardine
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33140  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience helping people in hospitals and clinics. I specialize in dealing with issues like substance abuse, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD, using the newest guidelines and proven treatments. I care deeply about mental health, believing it's just as important as physical health. My goal is to break down the stigma around mental illness and encourage others to put their mental well-being first for a happier life.
Hello! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience helping people in hospitals and clinics. I specialize in dealing with issues like substance abuse, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD, using the newest guidelines and proven treatments. I care deeply about mental health, believing it's just as important as physical health. My goal is to break down the stigma around mental illness and encourage others to put their mental well-being first for a happier life.
(727) 472-4631 View (727) 472-4631
Photo of Bobby Rosenthal, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bobby Rosenthal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33140
I am a seasoned psychodynamically trained psychotherapist. I work with individuals and couples on a short or long term basis dealing with issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, imposter syndrome or chronic illness. I have had many years of experience working with individuals coping with cognitive issues such as dementia and with adult issues of trauma, feelings of worthlessness, aging, HIV/AIDS and chronic illness. I have a strong specialty working within the LGBTQ community and with issues surrounding terminal illness, dying, grief and bereavement.
I am a seasoned psychodynamically trained psychotherapist. I work with individuals and couples on a short or long term basis dealing with issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, imposter syndrome or chronic illness. I have had many years of experience working with individuals coping with cognitive issues such as dementia and with adult issues of trauma, feelings of worthlessness, aging, HIV/AIDS and chronic illness. I have a strong specialty working within the LGBTQ community and with issues surrounding terminal illness, dying, grief and bereavement.
(332) 895-1763 View (332) 895-1763
Photo of David S. Kessler, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David S. Kessler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139  (Online Only)
If you struggle with depression, anxiety, sexuality issues, loss, addictive behaviors, chronic illness / pain, if you want to be kinder and more compassionate with yourself, if you are experiencing spiritual upheaval, having conflicts in your relationship, or If you need help setting and achieving goals, I can help you.
I strongly believe in the power of therapy to heal, foster growth, and help you live a happier, more fulfilling life. I understand how difficulties and challenges can affect your psyche and your spirit ; we can work together to help clarify what is causing you pain, dissatisfaction or unhappiness, and provide you with tools to help you. My last 30 years have been dedicated to helping people live happier lives. If you want to talk with someone who is non-judgmental, and who will provide gentle insight and honest feedback, I can help you.
If you struggle with depression, anxiety, sexuality issues, loss, addictive behaviors, chronic illness / pain, if you want to be kinder and more compassionate with yourself, if you are experiencing spiritual upheaval, having conflicts in your relationship, or If you need help setting and achieving goals, I can help you.
I strongly believe in the power of therapy to heal, foster growth, and help you live a happier, more fulfilling life. I understand how difficulties and challenges can affect your psyche and your spirit ; we can work together to help clarify what is causing you pain, dissatisfaction or unhappiness, and provide you with tools to help you. My last 30 years have been dedicated to helping people live happier lives. If you want to talk with someone who is non-judgmental, and who will provide gentle insight and honest feedback, I can help you.
(305) 363-1839 View (305) 363-1839
Photo of Daniel Baughn, PhD, Psychologist
Daniel Baughn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33140
Look, lots of things influence your weight, sleep, and pain experience.
It's just plain wrong that so many people struggle to be accepting, empathic, and warm toward you. It's their job to do this stuff, right? You may ask why does my therapist struggle to relate to me? Why does my therapist not appreciate the depth of my suffering? Why do I wonder if they truly understand me on a deep level? Your trust is earned not given. You make your own choices about what you do and how you live your life. No one knows more about your life than you do. You don't have to do this alone. I'm here to work with you. I'm here to be a guide with you on the journey and to help you find genuine happiness.
Look, lots of things influence your weight, sleep, and pain experience.
It's just plain wrong that so many people struggle to be accepting, empathic, and warm toward you. It's their job to do this stuff, right? You may ask why does my therapist struggle to relate to me? Why does my therapist not appreciate the depth of my suffering? Why do I wonder if they truly understand me on a deep level? Your trust is earned not given. You make your own choices about what you do and how you live your life. No one knows more about your life than you do. You don't have to do this alone. I'm here to work with you. I'm here to be a guide with you on the journey and to help you find genuine happiness.
(813) 328-5311 View (813) 328-5311
Photo of Donna J Phillips - Donna J Phillips, PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Donna J Phillips, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating everyday health issues such as sleep disturbances, unhealthy lifestyle habits and work/life/ relationship stress as well as the emotional and behavioral components of coping with debilitating accidents, work injuries and serious medical conditions such as chronic pain, cancer, immunological disorders, diabetes and heart disease.
Therapy is sometimes viewed as an intimidating endeavor. The ability to take that first step often provides an immediate sense of relief. What happens after that depends on the therapeutic alliance as well as the goals of treatment. If you are suffering from a mood or personality disorder, substance dependence/addiction or the challenges associated with aging, you may be feeling overwhelmed by the uncertainty of the world around you. Likewise, if you are coping with a dysfunctional relationship or job/personal life dissatisfaction, now may be the time to take a closer look at effecting positive change in your life.
I specialize in treating everyday health issues such as sleep disturbances, unhealthy lifestyle habits and work/life/ relationship stress as well as the emotional and behavioral components of coping with debilitating accidents, work injuries and serious medical conditions such as chronic pain, cancer, immunological disorders, diabetes and heart disease.
Therapy is sometimes viewed as an intimidating endeavor. The ability to take that first step often provides an immediate sense of relief. What happens after that depends on the therapeutic alliance as well as the goals of treatment. If you are suffering from a mood or personality disorder, substance dependence/addiction or the challenges associated with aging, you may be feeling overwhelmed by the uncertainty of the world around you. Likewise, if you are coping with a dysfunctional relationship or job/personal life dissatisfaction, now may be the time to take a closer look at effecting positive change in your life.
(786) 829-6143 View (786) 829-6143
Photo of Kelsey Kangos, PhD, Psychologist
Kelsey Kangos
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33141  (Online Only)
I provide therapy using empirically supported treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I believe emotional pain must be allowed and accepted in order to be fully felt and heard. I believe that often times, people seek therapy when their pattern of responding to pain has become overwhelming and they are unable to consistently find meaning in their lives. I work to help others accept their current experiences and emotions in order to choose to respond in a way that is no longer dictated by past narratives and/or automatic reactions.
I provide therapy using empirically supported treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I believe emotional pain must be allowed and accepted in order to be fully felt and heard. I believe that often times, people seek therapy when their pattern of responding to pain has become overwhelming and they are unable to consistently find meaning in their lives. I work to help others accept their current experiences and emotions in order to choose to respond in a way that is no longer dictated by past narratives and/or automatic reactions.
(512) 641-3299 View (512) 641-3299
Photo of Sunil Thomas, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Sunil Thomas
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33109
As we explore your story, we’ll develop a clearer understanding of the underlying issues causing your pain.
Every day feels exactly the same. Bored and dissatisfied at work. Frustrated and struggling in your relationships. Disappointed and ashamed that you haven’t reached certain milestones by this point in your life. Nothing seems to be working. You’re embarrassed to talk to friends about it because you don’t want to be a burden. And when you finally relent and try to express yourself, no one understands. You’re not happy; that much is clear. You know that something needs to change, but you have no idea what to do. You’ve considered therapy before, but you always felt like you could figure it all out on your own. Now, you’re not so sure.
As we explore your story, we’ll develop a clearer understanding of the underlying issues causing your pain.
Every day feels exactly the same. Bored and dissatisfied at work. Frustrated and struggling in your relationships. Disappointed and ashamed that you haven’t reached certain milestones by this point in your life. Nothing seems to be working. You’re embarrassed to talk to friends about it because you don’t want to be a burden. And when you finally relent and try to express yourself, no one understands. You’re not happy; that much is clear. You know that something needs to change, but you have no idea what to do. You’ve considered therapy before, but you always felt like you could figure it all out on your own. Now, you’re not so sure.
(954) 899-0963 View (954) 899-0963
Photo of Priscilla Torres, LCSW, CMDP, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Priscilla Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMDP, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33109
As a licensed psychotherapist and EMDR Certified Therapist, I understand that seeking therapy requires courage, and I commend you for taking that leap toward personal growth and healing. If you often ask yourself questions such as, "Why do I experience such intense emotions or no emotions?" "How can I stop self-sabotaging behaviors and impulsive actions?" "Why are relationships so difficult?" " What steps can I take to heal from past trauma and address emotional pain?" "Why do I feel like a fraud?" "How can I find inner peace?" "Why am I struggling with intimacy and sexual performance?" I can help you find the answers you seek.
As a licensed psychotherapist and EMDR Certified Therapist, I understand that seeking therapy requires courage, and I commend you for taking that leap toward personal growth and healing. If you often ask yourself questions such as, "Why do I experience such intense emotions or no emotions?" "How can I stop self-sabotaging behaviors and impulsive actions?" "Why are relationships so difficult?" " What steps can I take to heal from past trauma and address emotional pain?" "Why do I feel like a fraud?" "How can I find inner peace?" "Why am I struggling with intimacy and sexual performance?" I can help you find the answers you seek.
(786) 901-6209 View (786) 901-6209
Photo of Dr. Dianelys S Netto, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Dianelys S Netto
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
, cancer, chronic pain and fatigue) as well as attention disorders/executive dysfunction.
I am a neuropsychologist with over 25 years of experience. After working for many years in a medical center, I opened my practice with an emphasis on high quality and individualized treatment & assessment. I provide therapy, cognitive remediation, neuropsychological testing, psychoeducation & consultation/coaching. My approach is one that emphasizes the therapeutic relationship and takes into account emotional, behavioral, cognitive, biological, cultural and environmental factors. In addition to the treatment of clinical disorders, therapy can help with life transitions, stressors, relationships, and much more.
, cancer, chronic pain and fatigue) as well as attention disorders/executive dysfunction.
I am a neuropsychologist with over 25 years of experience. After working for many years in a medical center, I opened my practice with an emphasis on high quality and individualized treatment & assessment. I provide therapy, cognitive remediation, neuropsychological testing, psychoeducation & consultation/coaching. My approach is one that emphasizes the therapeutic relationship and takes into account emotional, behavioral, cognitive, biological, cultural and environmental factors. In addition to the treatment of clinical disorders, therapy can help with life transitions, stressors, relationships, and much more.
(786) 305-6278 View (786) 305-6278
Photo of Elsa M Orlandini - Miami Psychology Group, PsyD, CST, Psychologist
Miami Psychology Group
Psychologist, PsyD, CST
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
We at the Miami Psychology Group (MPG) believe in providing effective, kind and supportive treatment. All our professionals participate in ongoing training to maintain the highest standards in our field. We encourage all clients to participate in initial interviews to see if the practice professionals can meet your needs and most importantly help heal, address and consult on the presenting reason or reasons for attempting treatment. We do not participate in insurance and can provide information on how to have your insurance cover some of the cost if that option is available to you through your insurance.
We at the Miami Psychology Group (MPG) believe in providing effective, kind and supportive treatment. All our professionals participate in ongoing training to maintain the highest standards in our field. We encourage all clients to participate in initial interviews to see if the practice professionals can meet your needs and most importantly help heal, address and consult on the presenting reason or reasons for attempting treatment. We do not participate in insurance and can provide information on how to have your insurance cover some of the cost if that option is available to you through your insurance.
(305) 676-9667 View (305) 676-9667
Photo of Lindsay Bira - Dr. Lindsay Bira, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Lindsay Bira
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139  (Online Only)
I help you gain control over difficult issues QUICKLY to feel happier, healthier, and more fulfilled. First, we need the right understanding of the issue ... then I use research-based approaches to maximize benefit in as few sessions as possible. Many of my clients are high-functioning, working professionals who are experiencing symptoms they just can't shake - we work together to solve that and get you back to feeling good in your life. Even just 1 session of good therapy should feel very helpful.
I help you gain control over difficult issues QUICKLY to feel happier, healthier, and more fulfilled. First, we need the right understanding of the issue ... then I use research-based approaches to maximize benefit in as few sessions as possible. Many of my clients are high-functioning, working professionals who are experiencing symptoms they just can't shake - we work together to solve that and get you back to feeling good in your life. Even just 1 session of good therapy should feel very helpful.
(305) 340-0327 View (305) 340-0327
Photo of Jessica Autumn Aubuchon, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Jessica Autumn Aubuchon
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Sometimes, in life, we find ourselves repeating the same patterns over again. We tell ourselves we will not make the same mistake each time, but we find ourselves repeating the same mistakes we promised not to repeat. We may look to our partners and say they are the problem; we may see everything as a problem except ourselves. And as we do that, we stay in a state of unhappiness and remain a victim of ourselves. So we must admit first that we are the problem, and then we must explore deep within the self the root cause of the situations we have experienced that have created those unhealthy patterns so we can heal and grow.
Sometimes, in life, we find ourselves repeating the same patterns over again. We tell ourselves we will not make the same mistake each time, but we find ourselves repeating the same mistakes we promised not to repeat. We may look to our partners and say they are the problem; we may see everything as a problem except ourselves. And as we do that, we stay in a state of unhappiness and remain a victim of ourselves. So we must admit first that we are the problem, and then we must explore deep within the self the root cause of the situations we have experienced that have created those unhealthy patterns so we can heal and grow.
(786) 550-6407 View (786) 550-6407
Photo of Daisy Papp
Daisy Papp
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
You need help now? I help you independently of your financial/social background, age, ethnicity and sexual orientation. Are you looking for immediate changes, are eager to live your life free of past trauma, stress, hurt, anger, abuse, anxiety, grief, loss, jealousy, repeating patterns, bad habits, etc.? Do you want to get where you want to be in life, eliminate what's holding you back from success and living a content life? YOU are the perfect client I can successfully help. CALL or email NOW to book your individual FREE 15 minutes consultation! Ich helfe Ihnen, wenn Sie Deutsch sprechen. Magyar nyelven is ajánlok konzultaciót.
You need help now? I help you independently of your financial/social background, age, ethnicity and sexual orientation. Are you looking for immediate changes, are eager to live your life free of past trauma, stress, hurt, anger, abuse, anxiety, grief, loss, jealousy, repeating patterns, bad habits, etc.? Do you want to get where you want to be in life, eliminate what's holding you back from success and living a content life? YOU are the perfect client I can successfully help. CALL or email NOW to book your individual FREE 15 minutes consultation! Ich helfe Ihnen, wenn Sie Deutsch sprechen. Magyar nyelven is ajánlok konzultaciót.
(305) 834-4575 View (305) 834-4575
Photo of Darren Cefalu, LCSW, MCAP, IC&RC, NLP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darren Cefalu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP, IC&RC, NLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
It takes tremendous courage to seek out help. After taking that brave first step, you should be met with support and unconditional respect. I have been assisting clients as a mental health counselor for more than 20 years. Helping over a thousand individuals move through the darkness of addiction and mental health issues, my unique and innovative approach, concentrating on personal change, aids in developing the internal light and skills needed for growth. I serve as the Program Director at Recovery 112 which provides me with the opportunity to develop holistic programs to identify resources for complicated medical cases.
It takes tremendous courage to seek out help. After taking that brave first step, you should be met with support and unconditional respect. I have been assisting clients as a mental health counselor for more than 20 years. Helping over a thousand individuals move through the darkness of addiction and mental health issues, my unique and innovative approach, concentrating on personal change, aids in developing the internal light and skills needed for growth. I serve as the Program Director at Recovery 112 which provides me with the opportunity to develop holistic programs to identify resources for complicated medical cases.
(305) 528-1165 View (305) 528-1165
Photo of Elsa M Orlandini - Dr. Elsa M. Orlandini, MS, PsyD, CST, Psychologist
Dr. Elsa M. Orlandini
Psychologist, MS, PsyD, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
MIAMI PSYCHOLOGY GROUP : "I believe the bond that is developed between the therapist and client is essential for change and is based on respect and positive regard. If you are ready to change, I would consider it an honor to help you reach your goals. I believe in building on your strengths and in helping you find the tools necessary to reach a more fulfilling life and tackle the problems you may be facing. If you need someone to listen to you, I can be there for you. Talking about concerns can be empowering and healing." Dr. Elsa M. Orlandini
MIAMI PSYCHOLOGY GROUP : "I believe the bond that is developed between the therapist and client is essential for change and is based on respect and positive regard. If you are ready to change, I would consider it an honor to help you reach your goals. I believe in building on your strengths and in helping you find the tools necessary to reach a more fulfilling life and tackle the problems you may be facing. If you need someone to listen to you, I can be there for you. Talking about concerns can be empowering and healing." Dr. Elsa M. Orlandini
(786) 664-7975 View (786) 664-7975
Photo of Sarah Rosie Jane Matthews, MS, LMHC, LMFT, LPC, Counselor
Sarah Rosie Jane Matthews
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139  (Online Only)
I am invested in you finding a life worth living. My goal as a therapist is to help clients grow and reach their goals. To allow challenges to help them grow and understand their resilience. I love working with clients colloboratively to create goals tailored to them. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults facing life transitions, and identity development. I offer a safe space to explore the challenges of life, to heal, and to transform relationships with yourself and others.
I am invested in you finding a life worth living. My goal as a therapist is to help clients grow and reach their goals. To allow challenges to help them grow and understand their resilience. I love working with clients colloboratively to create goals tailored to them. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults facing life transitions, and identity development. I offer a safe space to explore the challenges of life, to heal, and to transform relationships with yourself and others.
(786) 244-6084 View (786) 244-6084
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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.