Chronic Pain Therapists in Buford, GA

Photo of Rebecca Short, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Short
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30515  (Online Only)
I also have a special connection with those experiencing grief, facing terminal illness, those involved in caregiving of family members, and those coping with chronic pain in their own lives, especially fibromyalgia.
My ideal client is you. You are on a journey of self-discovery and healing that has led you to this site and my profile. You are courageous, brave, and determined to make meaning in your life. You are tired of hurting. You are looking for someone to accompany you on this journey who understands what it’s like to be in your shoes and honors that knowledge with empathy and respect. It would be a privilege to be that person to accompany you.
I also have a special connection with those experiencing grief, facing terminal illness, those involved in caregiving of family members, and those coping with chronic pain in their own lives, especially fibromyalgia.
My ideal client is you. You are on a journey of self-discovery and healing that has led you to this site and my profile. You are courageous, brave, and determined to make meaning in your life. You are tired of hurting. You are looking for someone to accompany you on this journey who understands what it’s like to be in your shoes and honors that knowledge with empathy and respect. It would be a privilege to be that person to accompany you.
(678) 928-8566 View (678) 928-8566
Photo of Heather Mainard, APC, CRC, NCC, Counselor
Heather Mainard
Counselor, APC, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
Have you been feeling worried, unmotivated, or overwhelmed? You are not alone, and therapy can help you find relief. I specialize in supporting women who are struggling with the impacts of stress, trauma, and grief. Ongoing stress and unresolved trauma can lead to anxiety, depression, addiction, and chronic illness.
Have you been feeling worried, unmotivated, or overwhelmed? You are not alone, and therapy can help you find relief. I specialize in supporting women who are struggling with the impacts of stress, trauma, and grief. Ongoing stress and unresolved trauma can lead to anxiety, depression, addiction, and chronic illness.
(678) 325-6548 View (678) 325-6548
Photo of Robert Hunter - Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent, MD
Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
At times, life presents challenges that impact the quality of our relationships and daily functioning. Counseling can help to ease the overwhelming feelings associated with life transitions, grief, depression, parenting, anxiety, anger, family, low self-esteem, and other interpersonal relationship concerns. At Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center, we offer comprehensive therapeutic, psychological, psychiatric, medication management, nursing service, and psycho-educational services. Whether individual, family or group, our mission is to provide a collaborative and encouraging environment that encourages personal growth. Our team of expert therapists possesses a variety of specialties and certifications that focus on the needs of the individual regardless age (including preschoolers) and area of struggle. Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center also provides comprehensive psychological educational evaluations for children and adults in the areas of intellectual functioning, academic, behavioral, vocational, and forensics. Our psycho-educational assessments are highly detailed and identify any underlying impairments affecting school performance.
At times, life presents challenges that impact the quality of our relationships and daily functioning. Counseling can help to ease the overwhelming feelings associated with life transitions, grief, depression, parenting, anxiety, anger, family, low self-esteem, and other interpersonal relationship concerns. At Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center, we offer comprehensive therapeutic, psychological, psychiatric, medication management, nursing service, and psycho-educational services. Whether individual, family or group, our mission is to provide a collaborative and encouraging environment that encourages personal growth. Our team of expert therapists possesses a variety of specialties and certifications that focus on the needs of the individual regardless age (including preschoolers) and area of struggle. Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center also provides comprehensive psychological educational evaluations for children and adults in the areas of intellectual functioning, academic, behavioral, vocational, and forensics. Our psycho-educational assessments are highly detailed and identify any underlying impairments affecting school performance.
(470) 215-1788 View (470) 215-1788
Photo of Reva Manon Kraus - Northeast Georgia Counseling, LCSW, MSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Northeast Georgia Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
If you feel out of control and struggle with impulsive choices, I can help. I use the DBT to help you stop destructive behaviors, increase your probability of positive emotions and decrease your probability of negative emotions. I have 10 years of experience helping clients reduce or stop suicidal, self harm, sexual acting out, drug or alcohol and toxic relationship behaviors. My goal is to help my clients reach a life worth living, meet life on life's terms, enjoy successes and negotiate problems with self respect and confidence. Schedule an appointment today to see if I can help you or your loved one.
If you feel out of control and struggle with impulsive choices, I can help. I use the DBT to help you stop destructive behaviors, increase your probability of positive emotions and decrease your probability of negative emotions. I have 10 years of experience helping clients reduce or stop suicidal, self harm, sexual acting out, drug or alcohol and toxic relationship behaviors. My goal is to help my clients reach a life worth living, meet life on life's terms, enjoy successes and negotiate problems with self respect and confidence. Schedule an appointment today to see if I can help you or your loved one.
(770) 271-5040 View (770) 271-5040
Photo of Lauren Greenway, NCC, LPC, MAC, CPCS, CEDS-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Greenway
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, MAC, CPCS, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
Life experiences can sometimes leave us feeling as though we are presented with something too challenging or difficult to face. We can feel lost, overwhelmed, and unsure. So we can turn to coping mechanisms that might help us in the moment but aren't realistic long-term. Everyone needs help from time to time. I believe in empowering my clients to gain the tools and self-awareness they need in order to achieve more peace and serenity in their lives.
Life experiences can sometimes leave us feeling as though we are presented with something too challenging or difficult to face. We can feel lost, overwhelmed, and unsure. So we can turn to coping mechanisms that might help us in the moment but aren't realistic long-term. Everyone needs help from time to time. I believe in empowering my clients to gain the tools and self-awareness they need in order to achieve more peace and serenity in their lives.
(678) 456-4186 View (678) 456-4186
Photo of Lashaunta Hogan - Working Within, LLC, APC, MS
Working Within, LLC
Associate Professional Counselor, APC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30519  (Online Only)
My name is Lashaunta Hogan. You just made the first step, Congratulations! The initial step in asking for help can sometimes be the hardest to make. Reading this is that step. Life can be overwhelming and when those times occur, it helps to have someone trained and unbiased to help navigate those situations. Choosing someone to help traverse transitional life circumstances, choosing new life directions, or just having someone to work through normal everyday life, is one of the most important choices you can ever make. You should never feel embarrassed or judged to ask for help. I hope that I can be that person for you.
My name is Lashaunta Hogan. You just made the first step, Congratulations! The initial step in asking for help can sometimes be the hardest to make. Reading this is that step. Life can be overwhelming and when those times occur, it helps to have someone trained and unbiased to help navigate those situations. Choosing someone to help traverse transitional life circumstances, choosing new life directions, or just having someone to work through normal everyday life, is one of the most important choices you can ever make. You should never feel embarrassed or judged to ask for help. I hope that I can be that person for you.
(470) 227-1060 View (470) 227-1060
Photo of Brooke Ferreira - Nurture and Be Therapy Services, LMFT, APC, CRC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nurture and Be Therapy Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
Do you struggle with feeling stuck in life and disconnected from those around you? Do you feel overwhelmed and unsure about how to begin living life in the present? At Nurture and Be Therapy Services our mission is to empower individuals and their families to live joyful lives. Our approach involves creating a safe and supportive environment to encourage vulnerability, curiosity, and lasting change. As a mental health collective, we assist members by providing therapy and connecting them with other wellness professionals because treating the whole person matters (body, mind and soul).
Do you struggle with feeling stuck in life and disconnected from those around you? Do you feel overwhelmed and unsure about how to begin living life in the present? At Nurture and Be Therapy Services our mission is to empower individuals and their families to live joyful lives. Our approach involves creating a safe and supportive environment to encourage vulnerability, curiosity, and lasting change. As a mental health collective, we assist members by providing therapy and connecting them with other wellness professionals because treating the whole person matters (body, mind and soul).
(770) 750-4254 View (770) 750-4254
Photo of Jocelyn R Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jocelyn R Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30519  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Jocelyn is passionately committed to the strength, stability, and success of families through healthy connected relationships. She acts as a guide with her client's journey in healing. Her clients learn how to have more intimate relationships and reconnect with their own essential wholeness during this journey. She accomplishes this by compassionately collaborating with the client with a straight-forward but light-hearted approach. She believes although psychotherapy is hard work it can be enjoyable, not painful.Jocelyn has experience working with adults, couple, children and families.
Jocelyn is passionately committed to the strength, stability, and success of families through healthy connected relationships. She acts as a guide with her client's journey in healing. Her clients learn how to have more intimate relationships and reconnect with their own essential wholeness during this journey. She accomplishes this by compassionately collaborating with the client with a straight-forward but light-hearted approach. She believes although psychotherapy is hard work it can be enjoyable, not painful.Jocelyn has experience working with adults, couple, children and families.
(314) 488-2734 View (314) 488-2734
Photo of Brandy Rogers - Bright Path Counseling and Consulting, LLC, LPC, CPCS, RPT-S, CFMHE, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bright Path Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, RPT-S, CFMHE
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
At Bright Path Counseling we have a focus on strengthening families from the child parent relationship, parenting, marital issues. We have a variety of counselors with specialties in areas such as play therapy, couples counseling, or individual or family trauma. We work with both children and their families as well as adults who have experienced the life changing events or who just want to to change the path their life has taken. We have counselors who are able to help clients move through the most difficult times in their lives. We help them to move towards healing in a safe and trusting relationship.
At Bright Path Counseling we have a focus on strengthening families from the child parent relationship, parenting, marital issues. We have a variety of counselors with specialties in areas such as play therapy, couples counseling, or individual or family trauma. We work with both children and their families as well as adults who have experienced the life changing events or who just want to to change the path their life has taken. We have counselors who are able to help clients move through the most difficult times in their lives. We help them to move towards healing in a safe and trusting relationship.
(678) 506-2480 View (678) 506-2480
Photo of Janet W. Beasley, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janet W. Beasley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30518
Using a client-centered approach in an accepting and caring environment, I enjoy working with those who experience issues from trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, women's issues, and life transitional issues, such as marriage, separation, and divorce. We can work together to develop your individual goals to reach your greatest potential of well-being. I utilize the most current evidence based treatments in my practice to promote healing of the body and mind. I would love to meet with you to see if I would be a good fit for your needs!
Using a client-centered approach in an accepting and caring environment, I enjoy working with those who experience issues from trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, women's issues, and life transitional issues, such as marriage, separation, and divorce. We can work together to develop your individual goals to reach your greatest potential of well-being. I utilize the most current evidence based treatments in my practice to promote healing of the body and mind. I would love to meet with you to see if I would be a good fit for your needs!
(678) 582-8707 View (678) 582-8707
Photo of Kendra Gilbert - Beyond Today Counseling Center, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beyond Today Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30515
Are you overwhelmed with trying to find the right therapist for you or your family member? Has your search left you frustrated and confused? Our practice is multi-disciplinary, meaning we treat all ages and a variety of specializations. The counselors of Beyond Today Counseling Center all provide compassionate and evidenced base care to the individuals and families who seek our services. With this variety of professional expertise, we are able to meet a multitude of treatment needs. If for some reason we are not able to help you at this time, we will help you find someone in the area who we think will be a good fit for you.
Are you overwhelmed with trying to find the right therapist for you or your family member? Has your search left you frustrated and confused? Our practice is multi-disciplinary, meaning we treat all ages and a variety of specializations. The counselors of Beyond Today Counseling Center all provide compassionate and evidenced base care to the individuals and families who seek our services. With this variety of professional expertise, we are able to meet a multitude of treatment needs. If for some reason we are not able to help you at this time, we will help you find someone in the area who we think will be a good fit for you.
(678) 882-7833 View (678) 882-7833

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amberly Ellis, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amberly Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Braselton, GA 30517
I work with children, adolescents, and young adult dealing with a variety of presenting concerns including, anxiety disorders, ADHD, ASD, trauma, adoption, grief, depression, chronic illness, athletic performance, sensory processing disorders, ODD, developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, life transitions, and emotional regulation.
Hi there! My name is Amberly Ellis and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist. I approach counseling from an integrative, attachment-based, and interpersonal neurobiology lens, recognizing the link between behavior, the nervous system, and interpersonal connection. I believe the behaviors children and teens display are merely their way of communicating a need - a need to connect, a need to be known, a need to be heard, and a need for felt safety. It is my goal to not just help my clients “fix the problem,” but to help build understanding, connection, and a victorious mind.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adult dealing with a variety of presenting concerns including, anxiety disorders, ADHD, ASD, trauma, adoption, grief, depression, chronic illness, athletic performance, sensory processing disorders, ODD, developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, life transitions, and emotional regulation.
Hi there! My name is Amberly Ellis and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist. I approach counseling from an integrative, attachment-based, and interpersonal neurobiology lens, recognizing the link between behavior, the nervous system, and interpersonal connection. I believe the behaviors children and teens display are merely their way of communicating a need - a need to connect, a need to be known, a need to be heard, and a need for felt safety. It is my goal to not just help my clients “fix the problem,” but to help build understanding, connection, and a victorious mind.
(678) 647-7228 View (678) 647-7228
Photo of Dr. Ginny Kington, PsyD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Dr. Ginny Kington
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Suwanee, GA 30024
Are you struggling to cope with a major life event such as trauma, chronic illness, divorce, or new parenthood? Have you been experiencing anxiety and depression as a result of these events? My clients are typically going through one or more of these major life events, and are experiencing difficulties with their mood as a result. Although my clients are different from each other, one thing is for sure: they’re ready for some relief. They’re ready to decrease their symptoms of anxiety and depression and to increase their coping skills and their quality of life.
Are you struggling to cope with a major life event such as trauma, chronic illness, divorce, or new parenthood? Have you been experiencing anxiety and depression as a result of these events? My clients are typically going through one or more of these major life events, and are experiencing difficulties with their mood as a result. Although my clients are different from each other, one thing is for sure: they’re ready for some relief. They’re ready to decrease their symptoms of anxiety and depression and to increase their coping skills and their quality of life.
(470) 709-0304 View (470) 709-0304
Photo of Lisa Poore, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Poore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30041
Do you get overwhelmed and then shut down just to manage the depression or fear? Do you obsess about situations that make you anxious, or instead avoid them altogether? You want to be fully present but you’re in your head most of the time, thinking about your worries, the pain from your past or the mood swings you just can’t seem to control. You pray to God begging for help but feel alone in your struggle for emotional wellness. But it is hard to experience peace when you have depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD or trauma. Maybe you have more than one of these conditions. I’m good at handling several of these at one time.
Do you get overwhelmed and then shut down just to manage the depression or fear? Do you obsess about situations that make you anxious, or instead avoid them altogether? You want to be fully present but you’re in your head most of the time, thinking about your worries, the pain from your past or the mood swings you just can’t seem to control. You pray to God begging for help but feel alone in your struggle for emotional wellness. But it is hard to experience peace when you have depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD or trauma. Maybe you have more than one of these conditions. I’m good at handling several of these at one time.
(470) 236-5296 View (470) 236-5296
Photo of Roma Raheja, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roma Raheja
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Johns Creek, GA 30024
Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, navigating illness, caregiver, and aging & life transitions.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression? Struggling to find direction or feeling stuck in life's challenges? You're not alone. Many grapple with these issues, seeking clarity and relief. My ideal client seeks support to explore emotions, challenges, and goals in a safe, non-judgmental space. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, find inner peace, and achieve personal growth. Together, we'll uncover coping strategies, build resilience, and foster self-understanding, empowering you to navigate life with confidence and self-compassion.
Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, navigating illness, caregiver, and aging & life transitions.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression? Struggling to find direction or feeling stuck in life's challenges? You're not alone. Many grapple with these issues, seeking clarity and relief. My ideal client seeks support to explore emotions, challenges, and goals in a safe, non-judgmental space. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, find inner peace, and achieve personal growth. Together, we'll uncover coping strategies, build resilience, and foster self-understanding, empowering you to navigate life with confidence and self-compassion.
(404) 594-1393 View (404) 594-1393
Photo of Wayne Hulon, MDiv, LPC, AAPB, ABCP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wayne Hulon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC, AAPB, ABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johns Creek, GA 30024
I've had a diverse background in business, professional sports, corporate training, management consulting, the chaplaincy, bariatrics, pain management, addiction, psychophysiology, behavioral medicine, neurofeedback and photobiomodulation. Harville Hendrix of "Getting the Love You Want" was my supervisor for 8 years. Hence, I truly enjoy a wide range of issues and personalities. I'm compassionate but direct in my style and often described as "Dr. Phil, with a heart". No therapist has your answers, but if we ask the right questions, in the context of genuine care, safety, and respect, you will discover your truth and find your way.
I've had a diverse background in business, professional sports, corporate training, management consulting, the chaplaincy, bariatrics, pain management, addiction, psychophysiology, behavioral medicine, neurofeedback and photobiomodulation. Harville Hendrix of "Getting the Love You Want" was my supervisor for 8 years. Hence, I truly enjoy a wide range of issues and personalities. I'm compassionate but direct in my style and often described as "Dr. Phil, with a heart". No therapist has your answers, but if we ask the right questions, in the context of genuine care, safety, and respect, you will discover your truth and find your way.
(770) 927-4536 View (770) 927-4536
Photo of Laura Brenes - Life Renewed Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Life Renewed Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sugar Hill, GA 30518  (Online Only)
There is no story too messy, no mistake too big, and no pain too great that anyone should continue to suffer.
I have a passion for stepping into the stories of those who have experienced a “life interruption”. When things happen we didn’t expect, when the disaster strikes… when we are left standing dumbfounded and in disbelief, we need support, someone who can walk with us through it all. It’s a complicated process and you can trust me to help you navigate through grieving your losses, healing from trauma, learning skills you may not have yet and the strength and confidence to rebuild a life you enjoy. My experience and expertise lend an effective and steady hand when “life interruptions” strike.
There is no story too messy, no mistake too big, and no pain too great that anyone should continue to suffer.
I have a passion for stepping into the stories of those who have experienced a “life interruption”. When things happen we didn’t expect, when the disaster strikes… when we are left standing dumbfounded and in disbelief, we need support, someone who can walk with us through it all. It’s a complicated process and you can trust me to help you navigate through grieving your losses, healing from trauma, learning skills you may not have yet and the strength and confidence to rebuild a life you enjoy. My experience and expertise lend an effective and steady hand when “life interruptions” strike.
(470) 237-8239 View (470) 237-8239
Photo of Patti B Webb - Suwanee Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suwanee Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Suwanee, GA 30024
Having gone through my own struggles with pain, mobility and transition has been purposeful as it has created a passion, energy, and empathy in helping others face the many challenges of life.
Choosing a therapist is one of the most important decisions you can make. You want someone who is caring, knowledgeable and accessible. Someone who is willing to take the time and help you review all of your options. At my practice, I pride myself on client service. I offer over 25 years experience in mental health, safe and proven procedures, and the latest in clinical technology. I would love to help you begin a new day and way of life starting today.
Having gone through my own struggles with pain, mobility and transition has been purposeful as it has created a passion, energy, and empathy in helping others face the many challenges of life.
Choosing a therapist is one of the most important decisions you can make. You want someone who is caring, knowledgeable and accessible. Someone who is willing to take the time and help you review all of your options. At my practice, I pride myself on client service. I offer over 25 years experience in mental health, safe and proven procedures, and the latest in clinical technology. I would love to help you begin a new day and way of life starting today.
(678) 563-6082 View (678) 563-6082
Photo of Sarah C., MS
Sarah C.
MS
Verified Verified
Braselton, GA 30517  (Online Only)
I offer support with divorce care, single parents, empty nest syndrome, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, cancer and illness support, including surgical and medical loss, as well as major life transitions.
There are certain things that you can expect to happen each year, but there are also things that happen that we didn’t expect or see coming at all - things we didn’t plan for. Life can sometimes feel intense and fast-moving, and we can quickly find ourselves off balance, without support. This can affect your mental health and well-being. I help clients experience peace, hope, motivation, self-love, practice boundary setting, enhance communication, and build resilience. You are worth good things! Feel seen and heard during a session with me, and make a deposit in your overall quality of life. That's something to get excited about!
I offer support with divorce care, single parents, empty nest syndrome, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, cancer and illness support, including surgical and medical loss, as well as major life transitions.
There are certain things that you can expect to happen each year, but there are also things that happen that we didn’t expect or see coming at all - things we didn’t plan for. Life can sometimes feel intense and fast-moving, and we can quickly find ourselves off balance, without support. This can affect your mental health and well-being. I help clients experience peace, hope, motivation, self-love, practice boundary setting, enhance communication, and build resilience. You are worth good things! Feel seen and heard during a session with me, and make a deposit in your overall quality of life. That's something to get excited about!
(470) 458-2785 View (470) 458-2785
Photo of Denise Hill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Welcome! My name is Denise Hill and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of experience and have been a nationally certified Master Addiction Counselor since 2016. My clients may struggle with anxiety, depression, managing stress, or working through stage-of-life difficulties. They may have identified that alcohol or drugs are having more influence in their life than they’d prefer or are resulting in negative consequences. My passion is providing therapy services to clients to help them reach their goals and improve their lives.
Welcome! My name is Denise Hill and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of experience and have been a nationally certified Master Addiction Counselor since 2016. My clients may struggle with anxiety, depression, managing stress, or working through stage-of-life difficulties. They may have identified that alcohol or drugs are having more influence in their life than they’d prefer or are resulting in negative consequences. My passion is providing therapy services to clients to help them reach their goals and improve their lives.
(678) 509-6693 View (678) 509-6693
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.