Chronic Pain Therapists in Margate Park, Chicago, IL

Photo of Gregory J Harms, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Gregory J Harms
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640
A behavioral approach is well suited to clients with chronic medical conditions, such as pain, headaches, diabetes, heart failure, and cancer, as well as episodic problems, such as insomnia.
As a health psychologist, I work with clients who have physical and emotional conditions that are getting in the way of being able to live the lives they want. I help clients identify and follow through on changes they can make to improve their well-being. I use a behavioral approach supplemented with biofeedback and hypnosis. I also work with couples who are struggling to find ways to get closer together and feel like they are truly partners in their relationship. The key to my approach is to find effective ways to get what you want from your life.
A behavioral approach is well suited to clients with chronic medical conditions, such as pain, headaches, diabetes, heart failure, and cancer, as well as episodic problems, such as insomnia.
As a health psychologist, I work with clients who have physical and emotional conditions that are getting in the way of being able to live the lives they want. I help clients identify and follow through on changes they can make to improve their well-being. I use a behavioral approach supplemented with biofeedback and hypnosis. I also work with couples who are struggling to find ways to get closer together and feel like they are truly partners in their relationship. The key to my approach is to find effective ways to get what you want from your life.
(773) 985-3895 View (773) 985-3895
Photo of Ileana Ungureanu, MD, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ileana Ungureanu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MD, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
From that 'life', I bring with me an interest in working with issues related to physical illness.
I am passionate in working with relational issues, either when helping individuals or couples and families. I believe that our relationships have an essential impact on our well-being. I am yet to hear a client or a friend or a family member talk about distress that is not somehow associated to a relational issue... Aren't we all longing to belong and to find safety and security in the arms of our loved ones (partners, parents or very dear friends that are like family)? And yet, these are precisely the people that can hurt us the most.
From that 'life', I bring with me an interest in working with issues related to physical illness.
I am passionate in working with relational issues, either when helping individuals or couples and families. I believe that our relationships have an essential impact on our well-being. I am yet to hear a client or a friend or a family member talk about distress that is not somehow associated to a relational issue... Aren't we all longing to belong and to find safety and security in the arms of our loved ones (partners, parents or very dear friends that are like family)? And yet, these are precisely the people that can hurt us the most.
(312) 818-3684 View (312) 818-3684
Photo of Hannah Espinoza, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Hannah Espinoza
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois. In Michigan, I worked at an elementary school with children who had mood disorders, trauma and behavioral issues which were impacting them in school. I also worked with adults and couples who were struggling with depression, anxiety and communication barriers. In Illinois, I worked primarily with adults struggling with severe mental illness. Some diagnoses included schizophrenia, bi-polar disorder, and PTSD. I use many different therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Imago Therapy, Family Therapy and Psycho-education.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois. In Michigan, I worked at an elementary school with children who had mood disorders, trauma and behavioral issues which were impacting them in school. I also worked with adults and couples who were struggling with depression, anxiety and communication barriers. In Illinois, I worked primarily with adults struggling with severe mental illness. Some diagnoses included schizophrenia, bi-polar disorder, and PTSD. I use many different therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Imago Therapy, Family Therapy and Psycho-education.
(224) 204-0631 View (224) 204-0631
Photo of Lisa Schneider, LCPC, CYI, Counselor
Lisa Schneider
Counselor, LCPC, CYI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
Previously the director at a cancer support center, I focus on life-change, illness (cancer and chronic), end-of-life issues & grief.
I am licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) who has been providing counseling to individuals and families since 2000. My personal intention for working with you, and all of my clients, is to approach therapy from a holistic perspective. A holistic perspective looks at the mind, body, and spirit with the goal of bringing these aspects of self into harmony. My primary goal is to help you foster your own inner strength to create the life you want. You may find that the therapy process cultivates more peace in your life or changes the way you want to live. I am currently focusing on individuals only.
Previously the director at a cancer support center, I focus on life-change, illness (cancer and chronic), end-of-life issues & grief.
I am licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) who has been providing counseling to individuals and families since 2000. My personal intention for working with you, and all of my clients, is to approach therapy from a holistic perspective. A holistic perspective looks at the mind, body, and spirit with the goal of bringing these aspects of self into harmony. My primary goal is to help you foster your own inner strength to create the life you want. You may find that the therapy process cultivates more peace in your life or changes the way you want to live. I am currently focusing on individuals only.
(773) 295-7993 View (773) 295-7993
Photo of Karla K Ivankovich, PhD, LCPC, NCC, BC-TMH, ACS, Counselor
Karla K Ivankovich
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC, BC-TMH, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640
Over the past 20 years, I have practiced in a number of treatment settings as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, board certified in traditional clinical mental health and online telehealth counseling services, in Chicago and surrounding areas. I have a PhD in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Human Development Counseling. I trained at the University of Illinois Springfield and North Central University and recently published a book. I work with all types of clients, from those with minor concerns to major mental illness. Whatever your concerns are, let's establish a plan and work toward your goals!
Over the past 20 years, I have practiced in a number of treatment settings as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, board certified in traditional clinical mental health and online telehealth counseling services, in Chicago and surrounding areas. I have a PhD in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Human Development Counseling. I trained at the University of Illinois Springfield and North Central University and recently published a book. I work with all types of clients, from those with minor concerns to major mental illness. Whatever your concerns are, let's establish a plan and work toward your goals!
(312) 756-0405 View (312) 756-0405
Photo of Jenna Elizabeth White, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jenna Elizabeth White
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640
Not accepting new clients
My clients are very important to me. It is a privilege to accompany people on a journey of self-reflection, vulnerability, and growth. I meet you where you are, say the hard thing (with kindness, humor, empathy, and creativity), and work to understand your complexities and the unique ways you wish to grow. I love working with a wide variety of people, but particularly specialize in the treatment of disordered eating, body image anxieties, sexuality, chronic pain, attachment issues, and addictive/ compulsive behaviors.
My clients are very important to me. It is a privilege to accompany people on a journey of self-reflection, vulnerability, and growth. I meet you where you are, say the hard thing (with kindness, humor, empathy, and creativity), and work to understand your complexities and the unique ways you wish to grow. I love working with a wide variety of people, but particularly specialize in the treatment of disordered eating, body image anxieties, sexuality, chronic pain, attachment issues, and addictive/ compulsive behaviors.
(773) 825-5085 View (773) 825-5085
Photo of Sarah Landolfi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Landolfi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640
I work best with clients who are curious about themselves and who are ready to examine what could be better in their lives and relationships. You and I will collaborate to understand your current pain in terms of your past struggles and the protective coping strategies you've utilized to make it this far. We will build compassion for parts of you that may be critical, fearful, ashamed or hopeless, and we will study the relationships you have with these parts, with other people, and with the world while building skills to regulate your nervous system, inhabit your body more fully, and experience joy, connection and pleasure.
I work best with clients who are curious about themselves and who are ready to examine what could be better in their lives and relationships. You and I will collaborate to understand your current pain in terms of your past struggles and the protective coping strategies you've utilized to make it this far. We will build compassion for parts of you that may be critical, fearful, ashamed or hopeless, and we will study the relationships you have with these parts, with other people, and with the world while building skills to regulate your nervous system, inhabit your body more fully, and experience joy, connection and pleasure.
(224) 520-9323 View (224) 520-9323
Photo of Ali Vernasco, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ali Vernasco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640
I come from a diverse background from acute mental health settings, to Hospice and chronic illness.
Life transitions can be difficult to navigate alone. There may be grief, confusion, sadness and anger, fear, or any combination of these feelings. There is no circumstance too small in which to seek help from a professional clinician. I believe that my role as a therapist is to help you reach beyond your potential helping you access your own gifts and talents to get you through difficult times and draw meaning from life's challenges. I enjoy working with folks of all ages and incorporating art, music, and writing into the therapy process. I am trained in EMDR and currently in training for Somatic Experience.
I come from a diverse background from acute mental health settings, to Hospice and chronic illness.
Life transitions can be difficult to navigate alone. There may be grief, confusion, sadness and anger, fear, or any combination of these feelings. There is no circumstance too small in which to seek help from a professional clinician. I believe that my role as a therapist is to help you reach beyond your potential helping you access your own gifts and talents to get you through difficult times and draw meaning from life's challenges. I enjoy working with folks of all ages and incorporating art, music, and writing into the therapy process. I am trained in EMDR and currently in training for Somatic Experience.
(847) 472-0071 View (847) 472-0071
Photo of Sex Therapist + Couples Therapist Dr. Jennifer Litner, PhD, MSc, MEd, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sex Therapist + Couples Therapist Dr. Jennifer Litner
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MSc, MEd, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640
I work with couples and individuals coping with anxiety, relationship issues, parenthood challenges, life transitions and sexuality-related concerns. I have extensive clinical experience treating sexual pain/discomfort, loss of intimacy, changes in sexual desire/arousal, and performance anxiety. In therapy, we'll deepen your understanding of your intimate needs, learn ways for you to reconnect and ignite passion with your partner. By developing insight, using curiosity and creativity, we'll create lasting change while ensuring psychological safety is present throughout treatment.
I work with couples and individuals coping with anxiety, relationship issues, parenthood challenges, life transitions and sexuality-related concerns. I have extensive clinical experience treating sexual pain/discomfort, loss of intimacy, changes in sexual desire/arousal, and performance anxiety. In therapy, we'll deepen your understanding of your intimate needs, learn ways for you to reconnect and ignite passion with your partner. By developing insight, using curiosity and creativity, we'll create lasting change while ensuring psychological safety is present throughout treatment.
(847) 978-6252 View (847) 978-6252
Photo of Gideon Greene, MAAT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gideon Greene
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAAT, LPC
Verified Verified
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have 10+ years experience with adults of all ages and with many common struggles including anxiety, depression, complex family dynamics, relationship dynamics, difficult life transitions, and the effects of chronic illness.
I approach clinical work from a trauma-informed perspective and with the idea that the client is the expert on their own life. I am trans and queer-identified, and I am passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I understand the struggle to find a therapist who can understand one’s community both from professional and personal experience. I also know that both art and therapy can be intimidating and my goal is to provide a space where both feel accessible.
I have 10+ years experience with adults of all ages and with many common struggles including anxiety, depression, complex family dynamics, relationship dynamics, difficult life transitions, and the effects of chronic illness.
I approach clinical work from a trauma-informed perspective and with the idea that the client is the expert on their own life. I am trans and queer-identified, and I am passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I understand the struggle to find a therapist who can understand one’s community both from professional and personal experience. I also know that both art and therapy can be intimidating and my goal is to provide a space where both feel accessible.
(773) 923-1323 View (773) 923-1323
Photo of Avi Vodnoy Wolf, LCPC, Counselor
Avi Vodnoy Wolf
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
My specialities are working with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and chronic pain.
You want to feel emotions fully without shame. You want to be connected to your own sense of desire and purpose. You deserve a space to explore the parts of you that feel unknown, “unacceptable,” or taboo. My commitment in the therapeutic relationship is to welcome and value all aspects of your experience – the stories that reflect humor and resilience, and the parts that have been shamed or dismissed. I combine EMDR trauma processing, somatic approaches, and discussions about how systems of oppression shape what we believe about ourselves to help clients express emotion and explore new patterns and identities.
My specialities are working with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and chronic pain.
You want to feel emotions fully without shame. You want to be connected to your own sense of desire and purpose. You deserve a space to explore the parts of you that feel unknown, “unacceptable,” or taboo. My commitment in the therapeutic relationship is to welcome and value all aspects of your experience – the stories that reflect humor and resilience, and the parts that have been shamed or dismissed. I combine EMDR trauma processing, somatic approaches, and discussions about how systems of oppression shape what we believe about ourselves to help clients express emotion and explore new patterns and identities.
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Photo of Jesenia Chavez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jesenia Chavez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I am a queer, second-generation immigrant Latine psychotherapist who partners with folks to navigate the demands of a society that is so often limiting and oppressive to us. I'm passionate about working with adults that were parentified as children, grew up in dysfunctional family systems, and BIPOC and queer adults that have historically felt "different." Therapy can be an opportunity to slow down and become curious about what in ourselves might need our attention. As you embark on this journey toward self-awareness, I will collaborate with you to turn toward the parts of yourself that have been disowned or burdened by pain.
I am a queer, second-generation immigrant Latine psychotherapist who partners with folks to navigate the demands of a society that is so often limiting and oppressive to us. I'm passionate about working with adults that were parentified as children, grew up in dysfunctional family systems, and BIPOC and queer adults that have historically felt "different." Therapy can be an opportunity to slow down and become curious about what in ourselves might need our attention. As you embark on this journey toward self-awareness, I will collaborate with you to turn toward the parts of yourself that have been disowned or burdened by pain.
(708) 847-0161 View (708) 847-0161
Photo of Jake Stone, MA, MSW, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jake Stone
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640
I work with many types of clients, but specialize in working with queer and trans people, couples, and other forms of relationships (triads, polycules, open, polygamous, etc.). I deal primarily with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, grief and loss, transitions, stress management, trauma, sex-related issues and traumas, kink and BDSM, behavioral and substance addictions, and chronic pain and chronic illness. I tend to work with adults. I love working with clients that bring their whole self to therapy as I do too. I always encourage feedback to ensure the therapeutic process feels affirming and healing.
I work with many types of clients, but specialize in working with queer and trans people, couples, and other forms of relationships (triads, polycules, open, polygamous, etc.). I deal primarily with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, grief and loss, transitions, stress management, trauma, sex-related issues and traumas, kink and BDSM, behavioral and substance addictions, and chronic pain and chronic illness. I tend to work with adults. I love working with clients that bring their whole self to therapy as I do too. I always encourage feedback to ensure the therapeutic process feels affirming and healing.
(312) 626-3082 View (312) 626-3082
Photo of Donald Glenn, Pre-Licensed Professional
Donald Glenn
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640
We’ll start by understanding your goals and then devise plans to alleviate your pain, foster your growth, and improve your confidence.
Life can sometimes feel too difficult to navigate alone, and having a supportive and safe outlet can make all the difference. Relationship struggles, life purpose, grief and loss, identity issues, family dynamics, chronic illness, and other stressors can be overwhelming, but with counseling, they can be transformative. I am passionate about working with anyone experiencing emotional hardships and understand how effective therapy can help. I welcome all orientations and walks of life experiencing mental health concerns. I bring 25 years of experience in the medical field to counseling and value the power of the mind-body connection.
We’ll start by understanding your goals and then devise plans to alleviate your pain, foster your growth, and improve your confidence.
Life can sometimes feel too difficult to navigate alone, and having a supportive and safe outlet can make all the difference. Relationship struggles, life purpose, grief and loss, identity issues, family dynamics, chronic illness, and other stressors can be overwhelming, but with counseling, they can be transformative. I am passionate about working with anyone experiencing emotional hardships and understand how effective therapy can help. I welcome all orientations and walks of life experiencing mental health concerns. I bring 25 years of experience in the medical field to counseling and value the power of the mind-body connection.
(217) 749-4299 View (217) 749-4299
Photo of Ann M Bergart, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann M Bergart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
It's a privilege to assist individuals and couples who want to make their lives better. I love my work, even more than when I received my initial social work degree. Returning to school later to get my doctorate and teach, I always maintained a private practice. In a nutshell, my philosophy is that I partner with my clients to figure out what they can do to improve their relationships and sense of well-being. Though I have a special interest in infertility and incest survivorship, I work with individuals and couples who struggle with any number of life challenges.
It's a privilege to assist individuals and couples who want to make their lives better. I love my work, even more than when I received my initial social work degree. Returning to school later to get my doctorate and teach, I always maintained a private practice. In a nutshell, my philosophy is that I partner with my clients to figure out what they can do to improve their relationships and sense of well-being. Though I have a special interest in infertility and incest survivorship, I work with individuals and couples who struggle with any number of life challenges.
(847) 416-0616 View (847) 416-0616
Photo of Emily Zoller, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Zoller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640
I believe it takes courage to know yourself deeply. I want to create a space where you can begin to know yourself better, uncover connections between past and present, and build out a life that makes you proud. I want to honor the strength and knowledge you already hold, and create a partnership where we can talk about what feels most tender, scary, and exciting. I believe that understanding your past can help illuminate struggles in your present, and can offer a road map towards change. We can work together to explore ways in which you can feel safer in your body and more confident in your ability to handle life’s challenges.
I believe it takes courage to know yourself deeply. I want to create a space where you can begin to know yourself better, uncover connections between past and present, and build out a life that makes you proud. I want to honor the strength and knowledge you already hold, and create a partnership where we can talk about what feels most tender, scary, and exciting. I believe that understanding your past can help illuminate struggles in your present, and can offer a road map towards change. We can work together to explore ways in which you can feel safer in your body and more confident in your ability to handle life’s challenges.
(773) 455-1777 View (773) 455-1777
Photo of Leslie Lund, LCPC, CCATP, Counselor
Leslie Lund
Counselor, LCPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hi I’m Leslie, and I’m excited to work with you! I work with adult clients (18+) on cultivating an awareness of the mind, body, and spirit connection by incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness based practices, and energy work through the chakra system. I love holding the space for clients to learn how to sit with their feelings, turn down the chatter in their mind, and tune into their intuition. Whether we are using ERP (exposure and response prevention) to face your fears or meditation to learn how to let go, my style consists of down-to-earth humor, playfulness, and compassion.
Hi I’m Leslie, and I’m excited to work with you! I work with adult clients (18+) on cultivating an awareness of the mind, body, and spirit connection by incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness based practices, and energy work through the chakra system. I love holding the space for clients to learn how to sit with their feelings, turn down the chatter in their mind, and tune into their intuition. Whether we are using ERP (exposure and response prevention) to face your fears or meditation to learn how to let go, my style consists of down-to-earth humor, playfulness, and compassion.
(773) 985-6471 View (773) 985-6471
Photo of Annie Rosenthal, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annie Rosenthal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640
Not accepting new clients
I am a caring professional committed to helping people create positive change in their lives. I believe that you are the one who is in the driver's seat, choosing the direction on the map, while working collaboratively with a caring professional. Ultimately, my goal is to help you gain a better understanding of both your difficulties and strengths, and to acquire tools to gain more satisfaction in your life.
I am a caring professional committed to helping people create positive change in their lives. I believe that you are the one who is in the driver's seat, choosing the direction on the map, while working collaboratively with a caring professional. Ultimately, my goal is to help you gain a better understanding of both your difficulties and strengths, and to acquire tools to gain more satisfaction in your life.
(312) 380-0923 View (312) 380-0923
Photo of Kristin Velazquez Kenefick, PsyD, RYT, TIYT, Psychologist
Kristin Velazquez Kenefick
Psychologist, PsyD, RYT, TIYT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640
At some point in our lives, we all encounter difficulties. These hard times may be related to our relationships, past or current traumas, work challenges, health problems, among others. My approach is to focus on the entire person, mind, body, and spirit. This involves taking a holistic view of the client and integrating healing practices for all facets of your being. My first goal is to get to know you and co-create a healing plan for you. I will partner with you to find what works best for you.
At some point in our lives, we all encounter difficulties. These hard times may be related to our relationships, past or current traumas, work challenges, health problems, among others. My approach is to focus on the entire person, mind, body, and spirit. This involves taking a holistic view of the client and integrating healing practices for all facets of your being. My first goal is to get to know you and co-create a healing plan for you. I will partner with you to find what works best for you.
(312) 779-1452 View (312) 779-1452
Photo of Lisa Marie Carlson - Carlson Counseling Connection, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carlson Counseling Connection
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Margate Park, Chicago, IL 60640
We have immediate in-person and virtual openings! Our clients struggle with a variety of mood disorders and mental health needs. They want and need to feel and function better and we work with them to achieve their goals. We see clients of all ages, developmental stages, identities, and backgrounds and tailor our treatment modalities to fit our client's needs. All of our clients are matched with a clinician who will best fit you needs and personality. Our goal is to help you and your loved ones reach your mental health goals and live your best life. Come see how much better you can feel!
We have immediate in-person and virtual openings! Our clients struggle with a variety of mood disorders and mental health needs. They want and need to feel and function better and we work with them to achieve their goals. We see clients of all ages, developmental stages, identities, and backgrounds and tailor our treatment modalities to fit our client's needs. All of our clients are matched with a clinician who will best fit you needs and personality. Our goal is to help you and your loved ones reach your mental health goals and live your best life. Come see how much better you can feel!
(630) 360-8995 View (630) 360-8995

See more therapy options for Margate Park, Chicago

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.