Chronic Pain Therapists in Palm Coast, FL
![Photo of Edgar Leopold Anderson, BSN, MSHSA, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc3647a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Lisa Benitez, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3de228e0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have expertise in working with trauma, depression/anxiety, grief, chronic pain, and collaborative family law.
I consider myself a relational therapist and believe it is a privilege to sit with people while dealing with life's challenges. Through a multi-discipline approach, integrating the practice of healthy social-emotional strategies, relational repair and positive psychology, I assist the client in their pursuit of personal growth & resolution. I work with people of all ages, individuals, couples, and families. I have a unique specialization with co-parenting dynamics and children five and under as a trained Infant Mental Health Specialist through the Harris Institute of The FSU Center for Prevention and Early Intervention Policy.
I have expertise in working with trauma, depression/anxiety, grief, chronic pain, and collaborative family law.
I consider myself a relational therapist and believe it is a privilege to sit with people while dealing with life's challenges. Through a multi-discipline approach, integrating the practice of healthy social-emotional strategies, relational repair and positive psychology, I assist the client in their pursuit of personal growth & resolution. I work with people of all ages, individuals, couples, and families. I have a unique specialization with co-parenting dynamics and children five and under as a trained Infant Mental Health Specialist through the Harris Institute of The FSU Center for Prevention and Early Intervention Policy.
![Photo of Amanda Perez, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/deb5dd16-c1af-4228-a4b0-7a654d06294d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I understand that each person has their own unique values and belief systems, and I provide a judgment-free space where you can safely share your emotional pain.
Hello! I'm a licensed mental health therapist with ten years of experience and a passion for helping people. If you're feeling weighed down by anxiety, depression, or life's challenges, I'm here to support you. Together, we can restore your sense of well-being and achieve a fulfilling life. I've worked with diverse individuals, including adolescents with emotional and behavioral issues, and those dealing with addiction. I offer a compassionate, judgment-free space where you can share your thoughts and find clarity. Let's work together for a brighter, more joyful future.
I understand that each person has their own unique values and belief systems, and I provide a judgment-free space where you can safely share your emotional pain.
Hello! I'm a licensed mental health therapist with ten years of experience and a passion for helping people. If you're feeling weighed down by anxiety, depression, or life's challenges, I'm here to support you. Together, we can restore your sense of well-being and achieve a fulfilling life. I've worked with diverse individuals, including adolescents with emotional and behavioral issues, and those dealing with addiction. I offer a compassionate, judgment-free space where you can share your thoughts and find clarity. Let's work together for a brighter, more joyful future.
![Photo of Angela Ryan, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6c9e726-7dd3-42f2-ab12-f745c7c92d66/1/320x400.jpeg)
Immediate availability for new patients! Breaking out of cycles that keep you feeling stuck is no easy feat. Today's society is flooded with "tips and tricks" that seem so simple but do not lead to real, lasting change. You will not find a 'cookie cutter' approach here. I see each individual as the expert of their own life and utilize individual strengths to customize treatment. Together, we will work to figure out changes to make so you can live life in the most authentic and genuine way for YOU.
Immediate availability for new patients! Breaking out of cycles that keep you feeling stuck is no easy feat. Today's society is flooded with "tips and tricks" that seem so simple but do not lead to real, lasting change. You will not find a 'cookie cutter' approach here. I see each individual as the expert of their own life and utilize individual strengths to customize treatment. Together, we will work to figure out changes to make so you can live life in the most authentic and genuine way for YOU.
![Photo of Polly M Vaughn - Institute for Social and Emotional Learning, EdD, CADC, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a9083e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Institute for Social and Emotional Learning
Counselor, EdD, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32137 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I work with all ages. I work with men, women, children and adolescents. My work is based on Gestalt Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy. My interest includes helping others achieve their dreams through learning to develop their Social and Emotional Intelligence. Sometimes, in life obstacles get in the way of a person being able to achieve their dreams and they often need help learning to better use their emotions and their social environments. Because, dreams comes from change and change comes from dreams.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I work with all ages. I work with men, women, children and adolescents. My work is based on Gestalt Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy. My interest includes helping others achieve their dreams through learning to develop their Social and Emotional Intelligence. Sometimes, in life obstacles get in the way of a person being able to achieve their dreams and they often need help learning to better use their emotions and their social environments. Because, dreams comes from change and change comes from dreams.
![Photo of Michael Randall Hoffman, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ffa6609-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide screening, assessment, behavioral modification, and counseling services to individuals (3 years through Adulthood) with mild to severe behavioral difficulties who are on the Autism Spectrum and/or have been diagnosed with ADHD. I have expertise with Autism assessment and ABA. I also provide support for the families of children/adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders. I provide psychoeducational assessments for individuals with Learning Disorders and Intellectual Disabilities. I am familiar with Florida DOE law and how parents/students can access services within public schools in Florida. I also provide CBT for Insomnia to adults and children/adolescents.
I provide screening, assessment, behavioral modification, and counseling services to individuals (3 years through Adulthood) with mild to severe behavioral difficulties who are on the Autism Spectrum and/or have been diagnosed with ADHD. I have expertise with Autism assessment and ABA. I also provide support for the families of children/adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders. I provide psychoeducational assessments for individuals with Learning Disorders and Intellectual Disabilities. I am familiar with Florida DOE law and how parents/students can access services within public schools in Florida. I also provide CBT for Insomnia to adults and children/adolescents.
![Photo of Lisa Potash, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cd84e8c-1964-44c1-8e20-19dfefabd106/3/320x400.jpeg)
We have been socialized to believe it is virtuous to put other's needs before our own. This often results in poor self care, feelings of resentment and depression, which paradoxically hinders rather than helps relationships. I encourage people to nurture the relationship they have with themselves. This may involve defining more effective personal boundaries and expectations. Identification of unhealthy coping strategies is accompanied by brainstorming more effective replacement behaviors. I am honored to accompany you on your journey to pursue a more meaningful and joyous life.
We have been socialized to believe it is virtuous to put other's needs before our own. This often results in poor self care, feelings of resentment and depression, which paradoxically hinders rather than helps relationships. I encourage people to nurture the relationship they have with themselves. This may involve defining more effective personal boundaries and expectations. Identification of unhealthy coping strategies is accompanied by brainstorming more effective replacement behaviors. I am honored to accompany you on your journey to pursue a more meaningful and joyous life.
![Photo of Sarah Allen, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8f07519-20b5-4294-a266-6acd9a2a423d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Allen
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Coast, FL 32137
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida and a Board Certified Counselor. I work well with young professionals experiencing difficult life transitions, anxiety, and stress as well as persons who would like to process their trauma. Together, we will build coping techniques and resilience as we identify and change maladaptive thought patterns and you gain insight into yourself. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, supportive and calm environment for you to safely express yourself.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida and a Board Certified Counselor. I work well with young professionals experiencing difficult life transitions, anxiety, and stress as well as persons who would like to process their trauma. Together, we will build coping techniques and resilience as we identify and change maladaptive thought patterns and you gain insight into yourself. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, supportive and calm environment for you to safely express yourself.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Keith Harryhill - Florida Counseling Space, CMHC, MPA, IMH, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdda5e35-3eab-4526-8478-b7dbc222d913/1/320x400.jpeg)
Florida Counseling Space
LPC Intern, CMHC, MPA, IMH
Verified Verified
Flagler Beach, FL 32136
Waitlist for new clients
We specialize in all types of trauma. We treat anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and most mental health disorders. We offer addiction services , including assessments and interventions. We are experienced in all forms of couples, individual, and family therapy.
We specialize in all types of trauma. We treat anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and most mental health disorders. We offer addiction services , including assessments and interventions. We are experienced in all forms of couples, individual, and family therapy.
![Photo of Sarah Berger, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10e9a71f-9a4d-49f7-905f-d3277a7ce7ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Berger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Flagler Beach, FL 32136 (Online Only)
I have worked with people of all ages ranging from children to the elderly, with more focus devoted to those in their late teen s - mid - life stages . I specialize in working with anxiety, anger management, ADHD, stress management, improving relationships and communication, navigating life transitions, and parenting challenges. I have considerable experience supporting LGBTQIA individuals and helping them to navigate the challenges they may encounter with family, friends, or community. I also have worked extensively with parents on navigating challenging childhood behaviors and teenage puberty.
I have worked with people of all ages ranging from children to the elderly, with more focus devoted to those in their late teen s - mid - life stages . I specialize in working with anxiety, anger management, ADHD, stress management, improving relationships and communication, navigating life transitions, and parenting challenges. I have considerable experience supporting LGBTQIA individuals and helping them to navigate the challenges they may encounter with family, friends, or community. I also have worked extensively with parents on navigating challenging childhood behaviors and teenage puberty.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Dr. Yvonne N. McGaughey, PsyD, BCBA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7636ae28-eef1-4998-9205-a17679ee9f93/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Yvonne N. McGaughey
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32641 (Online Only)
If you have suffered through heartache, pain, despair, worry, and fears, I welcome you to please get in touch with me by connecting through the link that is found here.
Perhaps you are here to explore how therapy can help you through trauma, relational stuck points, and cultivating a better relationship with yourself. I would love to be part of your journey as I know that the paths in life can be rocky and sometimes treacherous. At times we just need someone to help us get back up after falling down or just be with one who may have a little bit more familiarity of routes that are walked through certain terrain in life. I may not have the road map. But together we can chart a trajectory that could lead you to better outcomes and a different destination then perhaps that you have been experiencing.
If you have suffered through heartache, pain, despair, worry, and fears, I welcome you to please get in touch with me by connecting through the link that is found here.
Perhaps you are here to explore how therapy can help you through trauma, relational stuck points, and cultivating a better relationship with yourself. I would love to be part of your journey as I know that the paths in life can be rocky and sometimes treacherous. At times we just need someone to help us get back up after falling down or just be with one who may have a little bit more familiarity of routes that are walked through certain terrain in life. I may not have the road map. But together we can chart a trajectory that could lead you to better outcomes and a different destination then perhaps that you have been experiencing.
![Photo of Letha Page, LCSW, MCAP, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f87533a4-f192-4cc8-97e5-ddc48d813815/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Ellen A Williams, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/230e8d8e-2565-4b7b-bae2-66d502907540/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Ted Clewell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54909149-6739-4d88-916b-0c21693eb59f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and specialize in working with adults, geriatrics and caregivers with a variety of issues like anxiety, depression, pain management, grief and adjusting to medical issues. I have received years of feedback from clients and their families telling me how easy I am to talk with. I love what I do and look to provide a safe, empowering environment in which my clients can heal and find their purpose.
Accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and specialize in working with adults, geriatrics and caregivers with a variety of issues like anxiety, depression, pain management, grief and adjusting to medical issues. I have received years of feedback from clients and their families telling me how easy I am to talk with. I love what I do and look to provide a safe, empowering environment in which my clients can heal and find their purpose.
![Photo of Nancy Shaw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b14456bf-5edd-48b8-b1d3-1c0dd4ed1116/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and specialize in working with geriatric individuals. I regularly help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, pain management, communication within relationships and families, and adjusting to medical issues. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults coping with medical illness, dementia for both the client and caregiver, transitions, trauma, grief and loss. I love my work and strive to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal and thrive.
Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and specialize in working with geriatric individuals. I regularly help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, pain management, communication within relationships and families, and adjusting to medical issues. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults coping with medical illness, dementia for both the client and caregiver, transitions, trauma, grief and loss. I love my work and strive to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal and thrive.
![Photo of Jacqueline Bluem, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c6e1705-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Bluem
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LADC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789 (Online Only)
Depression, anxiety, substance abuse and mental health disorders, fertility assisted treatment, support and infertility concerns, pregnancy and perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD), pain management, severe and persistent mental illness, multicultural counseling, stress management, career counseling, Rule 25 Assessments and Comprehensive Assessments.
Jackie is passionate about helping others succeed in improving their mental health and chemical health symptoms so they can live an optimal healthy life. She utilizes Positive Psychology concepts and Motivational Interviewing which are both a form of strength-based approaches. Motivational Interviewing has been defined as “a collaborative, person-centered form of guiding to elicit and strengthen motivation to change”. Jackie also uses an informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Depression, anxiety, substance abuse and mental health disorders, fertility assisted treatment, support and infertility concerns, pregnancy and perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD), pain management, severe and persistent mental illness, multicultural counseling, stress management, career counseling, Rule 25 Assessments and Comprehensive Assessments.
Jackie is passionate about helping others succeed in improving their mental health and chemical health symptoms so they can live an optimal healthy life. She utilizes Positive Psychology concepts and Motivational Interviewing which are both a form of strength-based approaches. Motivational Interviewing has been defined as “a collaborative, person-centered form of guiding to elicit and strengthen motivation to change”. Jackie also uses an informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
![Photo of Joyce E Heimerle, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/466b2d6c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joyce E Heimerle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Augustine, FL 32092 (Online Only)
If you are looking for a judgment, stress-free zone to release your inner secrets and pain look no further.
Looking to move past your past? Suffering from Trauma? EMDR can change behaviors, reduce feelings and triggers quickly. I have 20 years in the caring field, and I found it is not uncommon as human beings that when we suffer a traumatic event or life stressors our entire world unravels as well. My passion is to help you get your life back on track, heal, and be emotionally whole. I assist my clients in gaining insight into their unhealthy behaviors and learn new ones. I use the Gottman method of communication for couples and individuals. I understand the happy and the painful side of relationships too.
If you are looking for a judgment, stress-free zone to release your inner secrets and pain look no further.
Looking to move past your past? Suffering from Trauma? EMDR can change behaviors, reduce feelings and triggers quickly. I have 20 years in the caring field, and I found it is not uncommon as human beings that when we suffer a traumatic event or life stressors our entire world unravels as well. My passion is to help you get your life back on track, heal, and be emotionally whole. I assist my clients in gaining insight into their unhealthy behaviors and learn new ones. I use the Gottman method of communication for couples and individuals. I understand the happy and the painful side of relationships too.
![Photo of Diane C Baggett, RN, MSN, GC-C, PLCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c689f52-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Has your life been changed by a painful event? Do you wonder if you will ever be happy again? Do you think it would help to talk about the hurt? If you are feeling overwhelmed or finding it difficult to move on, let me help you find healing. As a counselor and life coach within the nursing tradition, I bring warmth, empathy and compassion to every session. Many of my client's crises include deaths, divorce, serious, chronic, or terminal illness, family disruptions,separation, break-up, infidelity or loss of job/home/finances. For more information visit www.griefcounselingfl.com .
Has your life been changed by a painful event? Do you wonder if you will ever be happy again? Do you think it would help to talk about the hurt? If you are feeling overwhelmed or finding it difficult to move on, let me help you find healing. As a counselor and life coach within the nursing tradition, I bring warmth, empathy and compassion to every session. Many of my client's crises include deaths, divorce, serious, chronic, or terminal illness, family disruptions,separation, break-up, infidelity or loss of job/home/finances. For more information visit www.griefcounselingfl.com .
![Photo of Kevin Mertens, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/457aa682-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
My health and wellness approach to coping addresses treatment adherence, sleep fidelity, partner-relational problems, appetite, chronic discomfort/pain, hope/spirituality, prescription medication abuse prevention, recovery, and self image.
I believe mental health is not just about managing symptoms. It is about developing a resilient inner self and fostering healthy relationships. It's about prolonging the impact of simple joys and meaningful moments to enhance our quality of life! My health and wellness program is a special subset of the wide range of conditions I treat
My health and wellness approach to coping addresses treatment adherence, sleep fidelity, partner-relational problems, appetite, chronic discomfort/pain, hope/spirituality, prescription medication abuse prevention, recovery, and self image.
I believe mental health is not just about managing symptoms. It is about developing a resilient inner self and fostering healthy relationships. It's about prolonging the impact of simple joys and meaningful moments to enhance our quality of life! My health and wellness program is a special subset of the wide range of conditions I treat
![Photo of Candon Sadler, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07d2e77b-ff9b-4272-bd12-d88589caaa02/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’ve been fortunate to work in a variety of settings while helping a diverse group of individuals. I spent several years working in Veterans’ Hospitals, where I helped veterans and their families work through issues including chronic pain, community re-assimilation, sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, and whatever may have been important to them. Additionally, I have also provided therapy through community mental health centers, Hospice services, and rehabilitative/long-term nursing centers. All of these experiences helped me build experience and expertise to begin my own private practice.
I’ve been fortunate to work in a variety of settings while helping a diverse group of individuals. I spent several years working in Veterans’ Hospitals, where I helped veterans and their families work through issues including chronic pain, community re-assimilation, sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, and whatever may have been important to them. Additionally, I have also provided therapy through community mental health centers, Hospice services, and rehabilitative/long-term nursing centers. All of these experiences helped me build experience and expertise to begin my own private practice.
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Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Palm Coast
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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.