Chronic Pain Therapists in Sunrise, FL

Photo of Linda H. Burns, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda H. Burns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunrise, FL 33323
My clientele consists of children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families who need help with different issues such as stress management, anxiety, depression, fears, insomnia, substance abuse, weight management, divorce, grief and loss, problems with self-esteem, pain management, pre and post operative anxiety and recovery, emotional and physical traumas, etc.
Imagine waking up with a sense of hope and relief because you feel in control of your life. I have been teaching patients how to understand and take control of their problems and symptoms since 1981, using a variety of techniques to achieve mental and emotional health. In addition to being in private practice, I have also worked in psychiatric and medical settings. One of my goals as your therapist will be to quickly identify the issues and the repetitive patterns that exist for you. After initial assessment, I will teach you how to manage your thoughts, feelings and reactions.
My clientele consists of children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families who need help with different issues such as stress management, anxiety, depression, fears, insomnia, substance abuse, weight management, divorce, grief and loss, problems with self-esteem, pain management, pre and post operative anxiety and recovery, emotional and physical traumas, etc.
Imagine waking up with a sense of hope and relief because you feel in control of your life. I have been teaching patients how to understand and take control of their problems and symptoms since 1981, using a variety of techniques to achieve mental and emotional health. In addition to being in private practice, I have also worked in psychiatric and medical settings. One of my goals as your therapist will be to quickly identify the issues and the repetitive patterns that exist for you. After initial assessment, I will teach you how to manage your thoughts, feelings and reactions.
(305) 651-1731 View (305) 651-1731
Photo of Kara Williams, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Kara Williams
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunrise, FL 33323
Waitlist for new clients
I have successfully worked with clients on a wide range of issues including adapting to physical illness, struggling with eating disorders, overcoming depression and anxiety, as well as those needing to reconnect with themselves.
Asking for help can be a very difficult thing to do. Many people think going to a counselor means that they're admitting that they can't handle their lives or that they've totally lost control. In fact, talking to a therapist means that you are taking your happiness into your own hands. Have feelings of depression, anxiety, guilt or fear been getting in the way of your happiness? There may have been a family, health or financial situation that led you to the place you're at right now or maybe you are just looking for more.
I have successfully worked with clients on a wide range of issues including adapting to physical illness, struggling with eating disorders, overcoming depression and anxiety, as well as those needing to reconnect with themselves.
Asking for help can be a very difficult thing to do. Many people think going to a counselor means that they're admitting that they can't handle their lives or that they've totally lost control. In fact, talking to a therapist means that you are taking your happiness into your own hands. Have feelings of depression, anxiety, guilt or fear been getting in the way of your happiness? There may have been a family, health or financial situation that led you to the place you're at right now or maybe you are just looking for more.
(954) 372-6444 View (954) 372-6444
Photo of Livia Perez, PsyD, MS, LMHC, EMDR, Counselor
Livia Perez
Counselor, PsyD, MS, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Sunrise, FL 33323
I provide EMDR and hypnotherapy for the treatment of pain, depression, and anxiety.
Every patient should be treated as exceptional, and the treatment should be structured and implemented accordingly. Personalizing the treatment is key for a genuine healing combined with a holistic approach that allows a more integrative treatment . Psychotherapy is not just for the mind, but also for the body, heart, and soul.
I provide EMDR and hypnotherapy for the treatment of pain, depression, and anxiety.
Every patient should be treated as exceptional, and the treatment should be structured and implemented accordingly. Personalizing the treatment is key for a genuine healing combined with a holistic approach that allows a more integrative treatment . Psychotherapy is not just for the mind, but also for the body, heart, and soul.
(786) 837-5946 View (786) 837-5946
Photo of Bettina Colete Bruno-Brown, MS, LMHC, CST, CHT
Bettina Colete Bruno-Brown
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, CST, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sunrise, FL 33351
Therapy can be a potent means of gaining insight into many individual/family issues. It can provide a safe/non-judgmental environment where one can speak and be heard. Life is ever changing. Therefore, when life changes our natural response is to attempt to maintain control of the situation and sometimes, we get stuck in familiar roles/behaviors that no longer fit our current situation. Therapy work consists of addressing one's thought processes, feelings and behaviors, understanding inner conflicts, finding new/healthier coping skills to deal with and alleviate stress.
Therapy can be a potent means of gaining insight into many individual/family issues. It can provide a safe/non-judgmental environment where one can speak and be heard. Life is ever changing. Therefore, when life changes our natural response is to attempt to maintain control of the situation and sometimes, we get stuck in familiar roles/behaviors that no longer fit our current situation. Therapy work consists of addressing one's thought processes, feelings and behaviors, understanding inner conflicts, finding new/healthier coping skills to deal with and alleviate stress.
(954) 637-7792 View (954) 637-7792
Photo of Lauren Britton - Lauren Britton Counseling, MA, LCMHC, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Lauren Britton Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sunrise, FL 33313
Waitlist for new clients
I currently see individuals in SC, FL and NC virtually, or in-person in my Asheville, NC office. Finding the right therapist can feel a bit daunting, so I hope the information here will answer some of your questions. My goal as your therapist will be to walk along side of you as you take steps towards personal growth. I am passionate about empowering individuals with the mindset and skills to manage challenges, move towards an enhanced sense of fulfillment, and KNOW their inherent worth. I approach therapy from the belief that YOU are the expert on yourself, and together we can help you tap into and utilize your internal wisdom.
I currently see individuals in SC, FL and NC virtually, or in-person in my Asheville, NC office. Finding the right therapist can feel a bit daunting, so I hope the information here will answer some of your questions. My goal as your therapist will be to walk along side of you as you take steps towards personal growth. I am passionate about empowering individuals with the mindset and skills to manage challenges, move towards an enhanced sense of fulfillment, and KNOW their inherent worth. I approach therapy from the belief that YOU are the expert on yourself, and together we can help you tap into and utilize your internal wisdom.
(828) 293-4302 View (828) 293-4302
Photo of Kayla Roberts, MS, LMHC, BCCC, Counselor
Kayla Roberts
Counselor, MS, LMHC, BCCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Sunrise, FL 33323
My clients come from diverse backgrounds. I help individuals that typically struggle with identity issues, depression, anxiety, stress, and anger. I work with people who need help overcoming depression, anxiety, mood swings, addictions, disappointments, grief, hopelessness, as well as trauma. I enjoy helping people who are willing to take the risk to address the most difficult issues in their lives because they think that they are worth the change! I work with my clients to assist them to find hope and truth that I believe are catalysts for positive changes in their lives.
My clients come from diverse backgrounds. I help individuals that typically struggle with identity issues, depression, anxiety, stress, and anger. I work with people who need help overcoming depression, anxiety, mood swings, addictions, disappointments, grief, hopelessness, as well as trauma. I enjoy helping people who are willing to take the risk to address the most difficult issues in their lives because they think that they are worth the change! I work with my clients to assist them to find hope and truth that I believe are catalysts for positive changes in their lives.
(754) 300-1506 View (754) 300-1506
Photo of Amanda Wolfson, PsyD, Psychologist
Amanda Wolfson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sunrise, FL 33313
Dr. Wolfson focused her graduate training and post-doctoral experiences on specializing in working with those impacted by trauma, anxiety, major life transitions, incarceration, and relationships, as well as conducting neuropsychological evaluations with adults and older adults presenting with neurocognitive disorders and neurodevelopmental disorders, and forensic evaluations for those seeking asylum.
Dr. Wolfson focused her graduate training and post-doctoral experiences on specializing in working with those impacted by trauma, anxiety, major life transitions, incarceration, and relationships, as well as conducting neuropsychological evaluations with adults and older adults presenting with neurocognitive disorders and neurodevelopmental disorders, and forensic evaluations for those seeking asylum.
(786) 744-3864 View (786) 744-3864

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Aprile Andelle, DMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aprile Andelle
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
23 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33324
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), online therapist, and solution focused mental health coach. I talk to individuals, couples, families, and groups about many kinds of life issues. Especially relationship issues, chronic illness, traumas and life transitions, grief and loss, difficult situations and everyday struggles. I've been doing this for several years now, and everyday, it is still a pleasure to work with a client, listening and engaging them in meaningful, therapeutic conversation.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), online therapist, and solution focused mental health coach. I talk to individuals, couples, families, and groups about many kinds of life issues. Especially relationship issues, chronic illness, traumas and life transitions, grief and loss, difficult situations and everyday struggles. I've been doing this for several years now, and everyday, it is still a pleasure to work with a client, listening and engaging them in meaningful, therapeutic conversation.
(954) 266-0794 View (954) 266-0794
Photo of Eva S. Reichel, RCSWI, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Eva S. Reichel
Pre-Licensed Professional, RCSWI, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33317
Eva is trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) for chronic pain, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Trauma-Informed Care.
Eva is specialized in treating anxiety disorders, OCD, maternal mental health, chronic pain/neuroplastic pain, and difficult life transitions. Eva is currently accepting new clients across the state of Florida.
Eva is trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) for chronic pain, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Trauma-Informed Care.
Eva is specialized in treating anxiety disorders, OCD, maternal mental health, chronic pain/neuroplastic pain, and difficult life transitions. Eva is currently accepting new clients across the state of Florida.
(305) 518-1530 View (305) 518-1530
Photo of Susanne R Mealer, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susanne R Mealer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Davie, FL 33324
I have extensive experience in issues related to trauma, abuse, PTSD, dissociation, DID, anxiety and depression. I have a personal interest and experience in issues related to law enforcement, fire fighters, other first responders and military. I also serve clients dealing with issues related to pain and grief/loss. I provide a safe, caring, supportive but structured place for my clients to address their issues. I work with my clients as a team. Together, we come up with the best approach for you. My clients are treated as individuals and no one approach fits everyone.
I have extensive experience in issues related to trauma, abuse, PTSD, dissociation, DID, anxiety and depression. I have a personal interest and experience in issues related to law enforcement, fire fighters, other first responders and military. I also serve clients dealing with issues related to pain and grief/loss. I provide a safe, caring, supportive but structured place for my clients to address their issues. I work with my clients as a team. Together, we come up with the best approach for you. My clients are treated as individuals and no one approach fits everyone.
(954) 642-6776 View (954) 642-6776
Photo of Dr. Arvon Associates In Counseling Arvon - Arvon & Associates in Counseling, PhD, LCSW, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Arvon & Associates in Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324
Whether Individual , marriage or family, we will take away the pain, and improve your relationships.
Do you currently experience difficulties in you relationship? Is your child defiant? Are you often tearful or anxious? I will gladly schedule a session and help you with your difficulties, your paIn. We specialize in the treatment of adults, and adolescents with behavioral and emotional problems. We have been trained in couples counseling , and individuals with anxiety, fear and depression. Also a board certified sex therapist.
Whether Individual , marriage or family, we will take away the pain, and improve your relationships.
Do you currently experience difficulties in you relationship? Is your child defiant? Are you often tearful or anxious? I will gladly schedule a session and help you with your difficulties, your paIn. We specialize in the treatment of adults, and adolescents with behavioral and emotional problems. We have been trained in couples counseling , and individuals with anxiety, fear and depression. Also a board certified sex therapist.
(305) 936-8000 View (305) 936-8000
Photo of Mary MW Killmeyer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary MW Killmeyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33322
I appreciate helping my clients by empowering them to enhance their natural skills and abilities to overcome circumstances through positive, collaborative, and solution-oriented conversation. I believe that through the therapeutic relationship, we can better understand and improve our relationships with others and ourselves. I provide services to individuals, couples, and families. I have worked in the community, agencies, private practice, and educational settings. I work with children and adults coping with depression, anxiety, marital conflict, parenting, academic success, stress management, relaxation, as well as life transitions during and after acute and chronic illness.
I appreciate helping my clients by empowering them to enhance their natural skills and abilities to overcome circumstances through positive, collaborative, and solution-oriented conversation. I believe that through the therapeutic relationship, we can better understand and improve our relationships with others and ourselves. I provide services to individuals, couples, and families. I have worked in the community, agencies, private practice, and educational settings. I work with children and adults coping with depression, anxiety, marital conflict, parenting, academic success, stress management, relaxation, as well as life transitions during and after acute and chronic illness.
(954) 320-0822 View (954) 320-0822
Photo of Julia Tankhelson - Healthy Path Hypnotherapy - Julia Tankhelson, CCHt, CIHt, AASDN, NS
Healthy Path Hypnotherapy - Julia Tankhelson
CCHt, CIHt, AASDN, NS
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33317
I welcome clients who are ready to take positive action in life, lose weight, stop smoking, reduce stress, overcome fears, boost self-esteem, improve sleep, manage pain, improve relationships, stop self-destructive behaviors, overcome procrastination, transform depressed and anxious feelings, overcome grief and loss, experience hypnotic childbirth, and much more.
Are you ready for lasting change? Let's work together to create boundless transformation in your life. By uncovering the root cause of the issue, I can help you effectively achieve your goals. During hypnotherapy, I use therapeutic techniques to access the subconscious mind and allow for positive changes to occur. This approach often leads to major breakthroughs in areas where you feel stuck. As your subconscious beliefs shift, you are able to relate differently to your world and respond in a healthier way to external events. Anything the mind affects, hypnotherapy can help.
I welcome clients who are ready to take positive action in life, lose weight, stop smoking, reduce stress, overcome fears, boost self-esteem, improve sleep, manage pain, improve relationships, stop self-destructive behaviors, overcome procrastination, transform depressed and anxious feelings, overcome grief and loss, experience hypnotic childbirth, and much more.
Are you ready for lasting change? Let's work together to create boundless transformation in your life. By uncovering the root cause of the issue, I can help you effectively achieve your goals. During hypnotherapy, I use therapeutic techniques to access the subconscious mind and allow for positive changes to occur. This approach often leads to major breakthroughs in areas where you feel stuck. As your subconscious beliefs shift, you are able to relate differently to your world and respond in a healthier way to external events. Anything the mind affects, hypnotherapy can help.
(954) 417-3837 View (954) 417-3837
Photo of Lonnie Polsyn, LCSW, MSW, CSW-G, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lonnie Polsyn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CSW-G
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33322  (Online Only)
I specialize in life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, chronic illness, end of life support, and provide you with compassionate support.
Now is the time to reach out and get that additional support you need. Whether you are experiencing career changes, anxiety, depression, isolation, fear, chronic illness, grief, aging parents, or stress, I am here to help support you. I offer Telehealth through my HIPAA compliant software (Zoom). Your health, well-being, and confidentiality are important to me.
I specialize in life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, chronic illness, end of life support, and provide you with compassionate support.
Now is the time to reach out and get that additional support you need. Whether you are experiencing career changes, anxiety, depression, isolation, fear, chronic illness, grief, aging parents, or stress, I am here to help support you. I offer Telehealth through my HIPAA compliant software (Zoom). Your health, well-being, and confidentiality are important to me.
(754) 219-1518 View (754) 219-1518
Photo of Dr. Rochelle Clarke, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Rochelle Clarke
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33324
If you are dealing with aging parents, struggling with coparenting, chronic medical conditions, a child afflicted with an illness or autism, a medical diagnosis of a parent, spouse or child impacting your daily life, caregiving, or stress give me a call.
There are multiple factors that have led you to search for the right therapist. The challenges you face may seem to have no resolve, you may feel like you are all alone in your experience, cultural and spiritual factors may cause you to question whether seeking the guidance of a psychotherapist is right for you, regardless of your situation, it has been my experience that we work through challenges better knowing we are not alone. If you are diagnosed with a chronic illness, your child is facing medical procedures, recently separated, experiencing a life change, or trying to unpack effects of the pandemic, call me.
If you are dealing with aging parents, struggling with coparenting, chronic medical conditions, a child afflicted with an illness or autism, a medical diagnosis of a parent, spouse or child impacting your daily life, caregiving, or stress give me a call.
There are multiple factors that have led you to search for the right therapist. The challenges you face may seem to have no resolve, you may feel like you are all alone in your experience, cultural and spiritual factors may cause you to question whether seeking the guidance of a psychotherapist is right for you, regardless of your situation, it has been my experience that we work through challenges better knowing we are not alone. If you are diagnosed with a chronic illness, your child is facing medical procedures, recently separated, experiencing a life change, or trying to unpack effects of the pandemic, call me.
(954) 280-2869 View (954) 280-2869
Photo of Elida M. Segrera, LMFT, CAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elida M. Segrera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAP
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324  (Online Only)
I have specialization in Medical Family Therapy, which focuses on the effects of illness on individuals and families.
As a therapist, I believe that therapy should always be a safe and comfortable space for clients to discuss what they want to change in their lives. When we meet, it will feel more like a relaxed conversation than a formal counseling session, so you can talk openly and explore their thoughts and emotions freely. My goal is to assist you in making the changes they feel they need to overcome your difficulties. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or other challenges, together we can find a way improve your mental health and overall well-being. I believe that we all deserve to live their best life!
I have specialization in Medical Family Therapy, which focuses on the effects of illness on individuals and families.
As a therapist, I believe that therapy should always be a safe and comfortable space for clients to discuss what they want to change in their lives. When we meet, it will feel more like a relaxed conversation than a formal counseling session, so you can talk openly and explore their thoughts and emotions freely. My goal is to assist you in making the changes they feel they need to overcome your difficulties. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or other challenges, together we can find a way improve your mental health and overall well-being. I believe that we all deserve to live their best life!
(954) 710-0592 View (954) 710-0592
Photo of Kathleen A Corcoran, PsyD, Psychologist
Kathleen A Corcoran
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Davie, FL 33324  (Online Only)
I extend a personal welcome to you. I have been fortunate to receive intensive, high-quality training in clinical psychology; I completed internship and postdoctoral fellowship in Child/Family treatment at Dartmouth Medical School/National Center for PTSD. I am pleased to be able to provide effective, high-quality services to the community. During my time in residency, I received intensive training in evidence-based Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Prolonged Exposure for treatment of victims of physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect. I also specialize in treatment of anxiety and OCD.
I extend a personal welcome to you. I have been fortunate to receive intensive, high-quality training in clinical psychology; I completed internship and postdoctoral fellowship in Child/Family treatment at Dartmouth Medical School/National Center for PTSD. I am pleased to be able to provide effective, high-quality services to the community. During my time in residency, I received intensive training in evidence-based Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Prolonged Exposure for treatment of victims of physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect. I also specialize in treatment of anxiety and OCD.
(954) 501-0986 View (954) 501-0986
Photo of Nicolle Arbelaez Lopez, PsyD, CEDS, Psychologist
Nicolle Arbelaez Lopez
Psychologist, PsyD, CEDS
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324
I am a Licensed Psychologist practicing in Weston. I work with adolescents and adults, conducting individual, couples, family and group therapy. I see clients with a variety of diagnoses and issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, stress management, adjustment issues, separation, divorce issues, identity problems and communication difficulties. In addition, I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, relationship issues, substance abuse, and trauma. My treatment approach is eclectic, with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques. I am dedicated to providing a supportive, confidential environment where individual needs, self-discovery and enhancing relationships are a focus.
I am a Licensed Psychologist practicing in Weston. I work with adolescents and adults, conducting individual, couples, family and group therapy. I see clients with a variety of diagnoses and issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, stress management, adjustment issues, separation, divorce issues, identity problems and communication difficulties. In addition, I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, relationship issues, substance abuse, and trauma. My treatment approach is eclectic, with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques. I am dedicated to providing a supportive, confidential environment where individual needs, self-discovery and enhancing relationships are a focus.
(954) 804-5144 View (954) 804-5144
Photo of Amanda Walch, LMHC, Counselor
Amanda Walch
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324
Facing difficult challenges in our lives can be frightening, however it can be a time for healing and growth. Each of us has a unique path, but sometimes on this path we end up feeling stuck. Sometimes we do not recognize what makes us feel stuck. Maybe it is trauma that we are not ready to discuss, maybe it’s the loss of a loved one, or maybe it is struggling to balance what to hold on to and what to let go of? My personal saying that I live by is “in order to heal you must feel”. I am here to provide you compassionate support and guidance while you are on your journey of navigating life's challenges and achieving personal growth.
Facing difficult challenges in our lives can be frightening, however it can be a time for healing and growth. Each of us has a unique path, but sometimes on this path we end up feeling stuck. Sometimes we do not recognize what makes us feel stuck. Maybe it is trauma that we are not ready to discuss, maybe it’s the loss of a loved one, or maybe it is struggling to balance what to hold on to and what to let go of? My personal saying that I live by is “in order to heal you must feel”. I am here to provide you compassionate support and guidance while you are on your journey of navigating life's challenges and achieving personal growth.
(954) 758-9202 View (954) 758-9202
Photo of Linda Berlin, PsyD, RN, Psychologist
Linda Berlin
Psychologist, PsyD, RN
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324  (Online Only)
Panic Attacks - Enough is enough! The panic attacks keep on coming. You are fearful that you are having a heart attack, about to faint, lose control. Your heart is racing, it may be harder to breathe, your legs are shaking and you feel numb and tingly all over. Rationally, you think, "None of this makes sense," yet it terrifies you. As time goes on, you notice it is harder to leave home, be with friends, function on the job. You dread the thought of the next one. It feels that you are living in fear and the fear is becoming paralyzing. Your world is becoming smaller as you avoid feeling trapped. Enough is enough!
Panic Attacks - Enough is enough! The panic attacks keep on coming. You are fearful that you are having a heart attack, about to faint, lose control. Your heart is racing, it may be harder to breathe, your legs are shaking and you feel numb and tingly all over. Rationally, you think, "None of this makes sense," yet it terrifies you. As time goes on, you notice it is harder to leave home, be with friends, function on the job. You dread the thought of the next one. It feels that you are living in fear and the fear is becoming paralyzing. Your world is becoming smaller as you avoid feeling trapped. Enough is enough!
(954) 280-2328 View (954) 280-2328
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.