Chronic Pain Therapists in New Smyrna Beach, FL

Photo of Lisa S Merilson - Volusia Neuropsychology & Behavioral Health, PsyD, Psychologist
Volusia Neuropsychology & Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
Volusia Neuropsychology & Behavioral Health offers multiple services to meet the needs of all patients. Our dedicated clinicians provide counseling and psychological services for children, adolescents, and adults in a supportive environment that promotes optimal well-being. The neuropsychological component of the practice is dedicated to the evaluation of brain function and assess cognitive, emotional and personality changes that can occur through injury and neurologic and medical illness.
Volusia Neuropsychology & Behavioral Health offers multiple services to meet the needs of all patients. Our dedicated clinicians provide counseling and psychological services for children, adolescents, and adults in a supportive environment that promotes optimal well-being. The neuropsychological component of the practice is dedicated to the evaluation of brain function and assess cognitive, emotional and personality changes that can occur through injury and neurologic and medical illness.
(386) 217-7183 View (386) 217-7183
Photo of Michele Houseworth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele Houseworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
Healing hurt and pain, making tough life decisions, facing change as a result of unexpected events in their lives are just a few of the many reasons that drive my clients pursuit for hope and healing at Intercoastal Counseling, LLC.
My clients are as eclectic as my treatment approach. No two people are alike. As a result, treatment goals vary with each individual person. My clients are not in crisis. They are high functioning individuals (ages 4-104) that are experiencing some sort of stressor in their lives. Life is full of unpredictable events including but not limited to separation, divorce, relationship issues, narcissistic abuse, loss of any kind, career changes, family issues, depression, changes in children's behavior, parenting, single parenting, recent diagnosis of mental health/ health condition, anxiety, fear, hurt and depression.
Healing hurt and pain, making tough life decisions, facing change as a result of unexpected events in their lives are just a few of the many reasons that drive my clients pursuit for hope and healing at Intercoastal Counseling, LLC.
My clients are as eclectic as my treatment approach. No two people are alike. As a result, treatment goals vary with each individual person. My clients are not in crisis. They are high functioning individuals (ages 4-104) that are experiencing some sort of stressor in their lives. Life is full of unpredictable events including but not limited to separation, divorce, relationship issues, narcissistic abuse, loss of any kind, career changes, family issues, depression, changes in children's behavior, parenting, single parenting, recent diagnosis of mental health/ health condition, anxiety, fear, hurt and depression.
(386) 270-3810 View (386) 270-3810
Photo of Pamela Lynn Accor, RMFI, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Pamela Lynn Accor
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, RMFI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Intern status (IMT) and Life Coach with over 5 years of experience working with individuals and families facing issues such as Trauma, Divorce, Relationship Conflict, Relationship Abuse Recovery, Toxic Patterns in Relationships, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Couples Counseling, changes to family structure, parenting issues, PTSD , Health & Wellness, Loss and Grief, Depression, Anxiety, Body Image Issues, ADHD, and more. I have focused my research and studies on addressing Toxic Relationship and How to Recover from Emotional Abuse.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Intern status (IMT) and Life Coach with over 5 years of experience working with individuals and families facing issues such as Trauma, Divorce, Relationship Conflict, Relationship Abuse Recovery, Toxic Patterns in Relationships, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Couples Counseling, changes to family structure, parenting issues, PTSD , Health & Wellness, Loss and Grief, Depression, Anxiety, Body Image Issues, ADHD, and more. I have focused my research and studies on addressing Toxic Relationship and How to Recover from Emotional Abuse.
(386) 388-7291 View (386) 388-7291
Photo of Kathy M Lanthorne, MS, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kathy M Lanthorne
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
My approach is holistic and advocates a journey to physical, mental, social, financial, and emotional wellness, personal well-being, and healthy relationships working with individuals and couples . I assist clients to build a practice of self-care and self-worth utilizing a variety of techniques and strategies to decrease anxiety and depression and build healthy coping mechanisms to facilitate healing and empower you to live your authentic life. I serve and strive to to provide person centered therapy without judgement in a safe and confidential space. I honor and respect each individual’s journey and life experiences.
My approach is holistic and advocates a journey to physical, mental, social, financial, and emotional wellness, personal well-being, and healthy relationships working with individuals and couples . I assist clients to build a practice of self-care and self-worth utilizing a variety of techniques and strategies to decrease anxiety and depression and build healthy coping mechanisms to facilitate healing and empower you to live your authentic life. I serve and strive to to provide person centered therapy without judgement in a safe and confidential space. I honor and respect each individual’s journey and life experiences.
(386) 400-7600 View (386) 400-7600
Photo of Brittney Murray, PsyD, Psychologist
Brittney Murray
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169
My ideal client is motivated to understand their cognitive and emotional health better and committed to personal growth. They may face challenges like memory issues, attention deficits, or emotional regulation difficulties, seeking thorough assessments to identify underlying causes. They value a collaborative approach and are open to evidence-based therapies. Whether dealing with neurological conditions, age-related cognitive changes, or psychological stressors, my ideal client actively participates in their treatment plan, striving to achieve their full potential in daily life.
My ideal client is motivated to understand their cognitive and emotional health better and committed to personal growth. They may face challenges like memory issues, attention deficits, or emotional regulation difficulties, seeking thorough assessments to identify underlying causes. They value a collaborative approach and are open to evidence-based therapies. Whether dealing with neurological conditions, age-related cognitive changes, or psychological stressors, my ideal client actively participates in their treatment plan, striving to achieve their full potential in daily life.
(386) 317-0062 View (386) 317-0062

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Bill Bazarewski, LMHC, Counselor
Bill Bazarewski
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edgewater, FL 32141
My goal is to provide a safe and secure therapeutic environment for all my clients. I have an extensive background of working with emotional, behavioral and substance abuse issues. I have worked in the Seminole County for the last 20 years and have developed many positive relationships with other mental health professionals such as social workers, psychiatrists , agencies and the legal and judicial systems. I work with children, adolescents and adults, who may suffer from mood disorders, adjustment disorders, behavioral disorders and substance abuse disorders. It is my intent to help a client make choices and decisions that promote positive changes.
My goal is to provide a safe and secure therapeutic environment for all my clients. I have an extensive background of working with emotional, behavioral and substance abuse issues. I have worked in the Seminole County for the last 20 years and have developed many positive relationships with other mental health professionals such as social workers, psychiatrists , agencies and the legal and judicial systems. I work with children, adolescents and adults, who may suffer from mood disorders, adjustment disorders, behavioral disorders and substance abuse disorders. It is my intent to help a client make choices and decisions that promote positive changes.
(407) 490-3437 View (407) 490-3437
Photo of Michelle Protko, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Michelle Protko
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Orange, FL 32129
I am here to help foster hope on your journey. My goal is to create a respectful and enriching environment that can help you or your family to improve insight, communication, or identify positive coping skills to meet life's challenges. I am a client-centered counselor who believes a non-judgmental environment helps to set the stage for healing and empowerment. Whether that's navigating current life stressors and transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, parenting, or relationships.
I am here to help foster hope on your journey. My goal is to create a respectful and enriching environment that can help you or your family to improve insight, communication, or identify positive coping skills to meet life's challenges. I am a client-centered counselor who believes a non-judgmental environment helps to set the stage for healing and empowerment. Whether that's navigating current life stressors and transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, parenting, or relationships.
(386) 232-9679 View (386) 232-9679
Photo of Angela Mastropiero - Elite EMDR & Etherapy, LCSW, Certfie, EMDR, Provide, r CCTP, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elite EMDR & Etherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Certfie, EMDR, Provide, r CCTP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32127  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Congratulations, if you're reading my profile or any profile then you've taken the first step towards recovery. Trauma is unique in each individual. Recovery is also unique to each individual and situation. Whether you are trying to recover from a traumatic past, a devastating loss or substances, help is available. Each person can be empowered to make significant changes in their minds bodies and spirits by collaborative work with a therapist. I utilize a holistic lens when treating clients, paying attention to the mind, body and soul. I incorporate yoga, meditation, visualizations and somatic breathe & body work.
Congratulations, if you're reading my profile or any profile then you've taken the first step towards recovery. Trauma is unique in each individual. Recovery is also unique to each individual and situation. Whether you are trying to recover from a traumatic past, a devastating loss or substances, help is available. Each person can be empowered to make significant changes in their minds bodies and spirits by collaborative work with a therapist. I utilize a holistic lens when treating clients, paying attention to the mind, body and soul. I incorporate yoga, meditation, visualizations and somatic breathe & body work.
(386) 530-4353 View (386) 530-4353
Photo of Patricia Adams - Lakeside Counseling and Wellness Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lakeside Counseling and Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32129
You may be at a point in your life where the problems are easy to see but the solutions are hard to find. If so, we are ready to help. We can help you feel better, happier and clearer quickly. Our team of 13 highly skilled therapists have many years of experience assisting people when they just don't know where else to turn. We serve ages 5-105, for individual, couples or family counseling. We are passionate about helping you create happiness and peace in your life, and we will focus on your goals and help you achieve them.
You may be at a point in your life where the problems are easy to see but the solutions are hard to find. If so, we are ready to help. We can help you feel better, happier and clearer quickly. Our team of 13 highly skilled therapists have many years of experience assisting people when they just don't know where else to turn. We serve ages 5-105, for individual, couples or family counseling. We are passionate about helping you create happiness and peace in your life, and we will focus on your goals and help you achieve them.
(386) 200-4271 View (386) 200-4271
Photo of Rebecca Weidler- Integrated Journey Llc, LBS, LCMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Weidler- Integrated Journey Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LBS, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32129  (Online Only)
Facing & accepting experiences in life is a process that is often challenging & requires time & an emotional & mental investment. It is also an empowering journey that promises healing and growth to those who choose to engage in an evidence-based, facilitated approach from the effects of trauma &/or developmental impairments. I combine elements of social skills training, psychoeducational & psychodynamic techniques, & emphasize support.
Facing & accepting experiences in life is a process that is often challenging & requires time & an emotional & mental investment. It is also an empowering journey that promises healing and growth to those who choose to engage in an evidence-based, facilitated approach from the effects of trauma &/or developmental impairments. I combine elements of social skills training, psychoeducational & psychodynamic techniques, & emphasize support.
(386) 272-7931 View (386) 272-7931
Photo of Dr. Itzel Harriott, PharmD, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Itzel Harriott
Pre-Licensed Professional, PharmD, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32128
I’m Dr. Itzel Harriott, a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (RMHCI) with a Doctorate degree in Pharmacology (PharmD). I am a faith based practitioner. I’ve worked in the medical field for over 30 years specializing in pharmacology. I am also an active member of the VRA Board of Directors (Volusia Recovery Alliance). I pivoted my career to spend more time clinically counseling those with mental health issues. I’m an excellent fit for clients with comorbidities that require a comprehensive approach combining clinical mental health counseling and a deeper knowledge and understanding of medication purpose and management.
I’m Dr. Itzel Harriott, a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (RMHCI) with a Doctorate degree in Pharmacology (PharmD). I am a faith based practitioner. I’ve worked in the medical field for over 30 years specializing in pharmacology. I am also an active member of the VRA Board of Directors (Volusia Recovery Alliance). I pivoted my career to spend more time clinically counseling those with mental health issues. I’m an excellent fit for clients with comorbidities that require a comprehensive approach combining clinical mental health counseling and a deeper knowledge and understanding of medication purpose and management.
(386) 280-0759 View (386) 280-0759

Online Therapists

Photo of Dana Nolan, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Dana Nolan
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
) I particularly enjoy helping clients live a happier, healthier life despite their illness and work toward improving their quality of life.
Many times we feel stuck in unhealthy habits, relationships or emotions. Try as we might, sometimes we just can't get unstuck. That is when most people seek counseling. Our practice focuses on helping our clients reach their personal life goals and to feel their best physically and emotionally...what we like to call Healthy Living! Many years of experience in working with clients of all ages with all types of challenges has shaped my professional philosophy whereby we start where you are today and together we discover your personal strengths and harness those strengths to progress towards your goals.
) I particularly enjoy helping clients live a happier, healthier life despite their illness and work toward improving their quality of life.
Many times we feel stuck in unhealthy habits, relationships or emotions. Try as we might, sometimes we just can't get unstuck. That is when most people seek counseling. Our practice focuses on helping our clients reach their personal life goals and to feel their best physically and emotionally...what we like to call Healthy Living! Many years of experience in working with clients of all ages with all types of challenges has shaped my professional philosophy whereby we start where you are today and together we discover your personal strengths and harness those strengths to progress towards your goals.
(407) 901-3446 View (407) 901-3446
Photo of Lindsey King, PsyD, Psychologist
Lindsey King
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a licensed Clinical Psychologist based out of Montana with licenses in Florida and Montana. I have 12 years of experience working with adults and groups in reaching and "maintaining" their physical and mental health goals. I help clients build a strong mind & strong body while also building self-esteem and a positive body image! I do not teach extremes like fad-diets or extreme workouts! I teach women (and men) :) who want to learn how to build a balanced healthy lifestyle. I work with clients who have chronic pain, chronic health conditions, body image issues, self-esteem issues, and more.
Hi! I'm a licensed Clinical Psychologist based out of Montana with licenses in Florida and Montana. I have 12 years of experience working with adults and groups in reaching and "maintaining" their physical and mental health goals. I help clients build a strong mind & strong body while also building self-esteem and a positive body image! I do not teach extremes like fad-diets or extreme workouts! I teach women (and men) :) who want to learn how to build a balanced healthy lifestyle. I work with clients who have chronic pain, chronic health conditions, body image issues, self-esteem issues, and more.
(406) 521-7513 View (406) 521-7513
Photo of Christina Sparks, RMHCI, MA
Christina Sparks
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Longwood, FL 32750
Drawing from my experience in healthcare working with individuals living with chronic illness and their caregivers, I understand the unique challenges faced by both.
Welcome! I am committed to providing a secure and supportive environment for your journey of exploration and healing. For those in the LGBTQ+ community, my therapy offers a safe and affirming space to navigate issues of identity, relationships, and self-acceptance. Additionally, I recognize the impact of religious beliefs and experiences and provide a compassionate environment to heal from past wounds, empowering you to reclaim agency over your spirituality.
Drawing from my experience in healthcare working with individuals living with chronic illness and their caregivers, I understand the unique challenges faced by both.
Welcome! I am committed to providing a secure and supportive environment for your journey of exploration and healing. For those in the LGBTQ+ community, my therapy offers a safe and affirming space to navigate issues of identity, relationships, and self-acceptance. Additionally, I recognize the impact of religious beliefs and experiences and provide a compassionate environment to heal from past wounds, empowering you to reclaim agency over your spirituality.
(407) 612-2596 View (407) 612-2596
Photo of Ronnye M Drexler - Solution Focused Counseling and Consultation, LLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Solution Focused Counseling and Consultation, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hernando, FL 34442  (Online Only)
I specialize in the follow areas: antisocial behavior, chronic pain, eating disorders, family conflict, grief and loss unresolved, low self-esteem, medical issues, phase of life problems, PTSD, sleep disturbances, spiritual confusion, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, sexual identity, substance abuse and addiction, and parenting.
I am accepting new patients. Has the Covid-19 caused difficulties in your life. Well we are here to help. Are you anxious, feeling stuck, or depressed? Do you have family conflict or parent-child issues? There is hope for a more peaceful productive life. It is my goal to provide a safe nonjudgmental place to empower people with the insight and skills needed to move forward. I have experience and success in helping people with various types of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, substance abuse, relationship issues, family problems, hard to handle teens. I am accepting new clients.
I specialize in the follow areas: antisocial behavior, chronic pain, eating disorders, family conflict, grief and loss unresolved, low self-esteem, medical issues, phase of life problems, PTSD, sleep disturbances, spiritual confusion, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, sexual identity, substance abuse and addiction, and parenting.
I am accepting new patients. Has the Covid-19 caused difficulties in your life. Well we are here to help. Are you anxious, feeling stuck, or depressed? Do you have family conflict or parent-child issues? There is hope for a more peaceful productive life. It is my goal to provide a safe nonjudgmental place to empower people with the insight and skills needed to move forward. I have experience and success in helping people with various types of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, substance abuse, relationship issues, family problems, hard to handle teens. I am accepting new clients.
(352) 464-9620 View (352) 464-9620
Photo of Amber Biello-Taylor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Biello-Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765  (Online Only)
My name is Amber Biello-Taylor and I have over a decade of counseling experience. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work with a certification in addictions. Additionally, I am trained in EMDR therapy and neurofeedback. I approach each session with compassion and an open and non-judgmental mind frame. For the past decade, I have helped people with various issues. These issues include substance abuse, anxiety, depression, anger, family issues, childhood trauma, financial issues, chronic pain, parenting, blended families, and more.
My name is Amber Biello-Taylor and I have over a decade of counseling experience. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work with a certification in addictions. Additionally, I am trained in EMDR therapy and neurofeedback. I approach each session with compassion and an open and non-judgmental mind frame. For the past decade, I have helped people with various issues. These issues include substance abuse, anxiety, depression, anger, family issues, childhood trauma, financial issues, chronic pain, parenting, blended families, and more.
(954) 601-3592 View (954) 601-3592
Photo of Jennifer Targosz, RMHCI
Jennifer Targosz
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33815
Are you experiencing life changes, issues within your relationships, or suffering from anxiety and depression? Life is too short to let trauma control us or be stressed/ angry all the time. I want you to be free of emotional pain, able to deal with life on life’s terms, and find purpose and meaning in work, family, friendships, and all other life areas. We can all overcome challenges and rise above them, but sometimes, we need guidance. Allow me to help you on your journey of healing and self-discovery.
Are you experiencing life changes, issues within your relationships, or suffering from anxiety and depression? Life is too short to let trauma control us or be stressed/ angry all the time. I want you to be free of emotional pain, able to deal with life on life’s terms, and find purpose and meaning in work, family, friendships, and all other life areas. We can all overcome challenges and rise above them, but sometimes, we need guidance. Allow me to help you on your journey of healing and self-discovery.
(863) 694-1423 View (863) 694-1423
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 Melissa C LaManna, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Melissa C LaManna
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32210  (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
Photo of Assel Saparova, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Assel Saparova
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32814
Are you feeling weighed down by the pressures of life, overwhelmed by negative thoughts, or struggling to navigate challenging relationships? Despite our best efforts, it's natural to feel drained by life's twists. In my practice, I help people work through their childhood or recent trauma and present day challenges, such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, chronic pain, chronic stress, and burnout, among others. Also, I help couples work on deepening their connection and learning how to improve their communication, as well as supporting them through issues with fertility or postpartum struggles.
Are you feeling weighed down by the pressures of life, overwhelmed by negative thoughts, or struggling to navigate challenging relationships? Despite our best efforts, it's natural to feel drained by life's twists. In my practice, I help people work through their childhood or recent trauma and present day challenges, such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, chronic pain, chronic stress, and burnout, among others. Also, I help couples work on deepening their connection and learning how to improve their communication, as well as supporting them through issues with fertility or postpartum struggles.
(813) 213-3667 View (813) 213-3667

See more therapy options for New Smyrna Beach

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.