Chronic Pain Therapists in Marrero, LA

Photo of Frank Trupiano, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frank Trupiano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Marrero, LA 70072
Specialties include: Blended Families, Marital and Couple Relationship Problems; Addictions (substance abuse and gambling); Eating Disorders (Obesity, Anorexia and Bulimia); Anxiety and Depressive Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Victims of Sexual Abuse; chronic pain management.
I provide individual, marriage, and family counseling services. I also create health and wellness programs . Whether you want to quit smoking, lose weight, manage stress, or improve your relationships, I can help. I also offer a number of complementary therapies: Reiki , hypnotherapy, (EFT) Emotional Freedom Techniques, the Sedona Method,and Psych-k . For clients experiencing a lack of direction, purpose, or meaning in their life, I offer psycho-spiritual counseling, utilizing the Akashic Records and Wisdom Teachings from the Bible and other spiritual tradition.
Specialties include: Blended Families, Marital and Couple Relationship Problems; Addictions (substance abuse and gambling); Eating Disorders (Obesity, Anorexia and Bulimia); Anxiety and Depressive Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Victims of Sexual Abuse; chronic pain management.
I provide individual, marriage, and family counseling services. I also create health and wellness programs . Whether you want to quit smoking, lose weight, manage stress, or improve your relationships, I can help. I also offer a number of complementary therapies: Reiki , hypnotherapy, (EFT) Emotional Freedom Techniques, the Sedona Method,and Psych-k . For clients experiencing a lack of direction, purpose, or meaning in their life, I offer psycho-spiritual counseling, utilizing the Akashic Records and Wisdom Teachings from the Bible and other spiritual tradition.
(504) 358-0517 View (504) 358-0517
Photo of Beth Anne Smith, MHS, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Counselor
Beth Anne Smith
Counselor, MHS, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marrero, LA 70072  (Online Only)
Life can be so hard and complicated. We can encounter obstacles from any given direction and it is easy to let ourselves be affected by this. No matter how little or deep your situation is the first step is realizing you need help. This can be so difficult for so many people. I offer you a safe, empathic and caring environment to express yourself and your needs. Once you make the decision to move forward with counseling, I will make this process as easy for you as possible.
Life can be so hard and complicated. We can encounter obstacles from any given direction and it is easy to let ourselves be affected by this. No matter how little or deep your situation is the first step is realizing you need help. This can be so difficult for so many people. I offer you a safe, empathic and caring environment to express yourself and your needs. Once you make the decision to move forward with counseling, I will make this process as easy for you as possible.
(504) 414-7859 View (504) 414-7859
E Taylor Aultman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marrero, LA 70072
I have 34 years of experience in mental health psychotherapy, so my practice is varied with Individual , group, couple and family sessions. I also do supervision and consultation. I am an adjunct professor at Tulane School of Social Work. I work out of an object relations perspective doing both short and long term work. I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, and relational issues. I also have worked on the licensing Board in Louisiana.
I have 34 years of experience in mental health psychotherapy, so my practice is varied with Individual , group, couple and family sessions. I also do supervision and consultation. I am an adjunct professor at Tulane School of Social Work. I work out of an object relations perspective doing both short and long term work. I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, and relational issues. I also have worked on the licensing Board in Louisiana.
(504) 315-1910 View (504) 315-1910
Photo of Melanie Roum, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Roum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marrero, LA 70072  (Online Only)
My name is Melanie Roum and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the state of Louisiana. I like to provide individualized care based on your personality, background, and needs, and am able to provide various modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Much of my work is Christian based. I'm looking forward to working with you!
My name is Melanie Roum and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the state of Louisiana. I like to provide individualized care based on your personality, background, and needs, and am able to provide various modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Much of my work is Christian based. I'm looking forward to working with you!
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Julia Stevenson, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Julia Stevenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Marrero, LA 70072  (Online Only)
I am licensed in Louisiana with years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, sleeping disorders, & motivation, self esteem, confidence, etc. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
I am licensed in Louisiana with years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, sleeping disorders, & motivation, self esteem, confidence, etc. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(225) 831-8361 View (225) 831-8361
Dr. Tiffany Duckworth-Matthews
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, NCSC
Verified Verified
Marrero, LA 70072
Our journey through life can often be difficult to manange and navigate. Life can be uncertain at times. Often you may find yourself living day to day, trying to figure out what path you should navigate. As a counselor, I am here to help you navigate through those difficult times in your life. The journey may not be easy, but you are worth the journey! Through your journey, I will assist you in working through the places that are painful for you. It is important to take time to become a healthier you! Therapy is a process! Trust the process! This mountain will pass! Take life one day at at time.
Our journey through life can often be difficult to manange and navigate. Life can be uncertain at times. Often you may find yourself living day to day, trying to figure out what path you should navigate. As a counselor, I am here to help you navigate through those difficult times in your life. The journey may not be easy, but you are worth the journey! Through your journey, I will assist you in working through the places that are painful for you. It is important to take time to become a healthier you! Therapy is a process! Trust the process! This mountain will pass! Take life one day at at time.
(504) 285-2726 View (504) 285-2726
Photo of Debbie Hartzo, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbie Hartzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Marrero, LA 70072  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Debbie Hartzo I have an LMSW license with twenty years providing social work-counseling and use DBT therapy to clients in need. I volunteered for ten years serving individuals that were underserved and oppressed. I earned my Bachelors in Social Work from Grambling State University and my Masters in Social Work from Grambling State University I’ve worked in many different clinical settings ever since. I am a passionate and an empathetic therapist with strong counseling abilities and an understanding of interpersonal familial relationships. I have experience leading clients through depression and anxiety.
Hello, I am Debbie Hartzo I have an LMSW license with twenty years providing social work-counseling and use DBT therapy to clients in need. I volunteered for ten years serving individuals that were underserved and oppressed. I earned my Bachelors in Social Work from Grambling State University and my Masters in Social Work from Grambling State University I’ve worked in many different clinical settings ever since. I am a passionate and an empathetic therapist with strong counseling abilities and an understanding of interpersonal familial relationships. I have experience leading clients through depression and anxiety.
(985) 307-5263 View (985) 307-5263
Photo of Debra Reeves, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debra Reeves
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Marrero, LA 70072  (Online Only)
I have provided therapy for both children and adults and can honestly say I enjoy working with all ages in various stages of life. I believe that anyone can gain knowledge through their experience in an optimistic way in a warm, supportive, therapeutic environment. When facing challenges and struggles, you do not need to feel alone; it can be very advantageous to have someone by your side who is nonjudgmental, understanding, and compassionate. Taking the opportunity to seek out help is not a sign of weakness; it is an admirable attempt to try to live a more fulfilling life for yourself and demonstrate a great deal of strength!
I have provided therapy for both children and adults and can honestly say I enjoy working with all ages in various stages of life. I believe that anyone can gain knowledge through their experience in an optimistic way in a warm, supportive, therapeutic environment. When facing challenges and struggles, you do not need to feel alone; it can be very advantageous to have someone by your side who is nonjudgmental, understanding, and compassionate. Taking the opportunity to seek out help is not a sign of weakness; it is an admirable attempt to try to live a more fulfilling life for yourself and demonstrate a great deal of strength!
(405) 777-7493 View (405) 777-7493
Photo of Colleen Phillips, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marrero, LA 70072
My name is Colleen Phillips. I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in the states of Louisiana (13075) and Mississippi (C8654). I have experience working with clients from a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, role/life transitions, grief and caregiver strain. I also have experience helping many people who have experienced abuse and neglect in their home setting. It takes courage to take the first steps towards a change. You've taken the first step by looking for some support. I hope to work with you to help you reach your desired level of well-being.
My name is Colleen Phillips. I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in the states of Louisiana (13075) and Mississippi (C8654). I have experience working with clients from a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, role/life transitions, grief and caregiver strain. I also have experience helping many people who have experienced abuse and neglect in their home setting. It takes courage to take the first steps towards a change. You've taken the first step by looking for some support. I hope to work with you to help you reach your desired level of well-being.
(225) 629-8312 View (225) 629-8312

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Suzie Flores, PsyD, LLC, Psychologist
Dr. Suzie Flores
Psychologist, PsyD, LLC
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70112  (Online Only)
Start your journey toward healing today! Are you feeling overwhelmed by PTSD, narcissistic abuse, anxiety, sadness, or chronic pain? These challenges can affect both your mental and physical well-being, but you don’t have to face them alone. I’m Dr. Suzie Flores, and my mission is to help you feel better, faster. Together, we’ll address your struggles head-on, build resilience, and create healthier boundaries for a more fulfilling life.
Start your journey toward healing today! Are you feeling overwhelmed by PTSD, narcissistic abuse, anxiety, sadness, or chronic pain? These challenges can affect both your mental and physical well-being, but you don’t have to face them alone. I’m Dr. Suzie Flores, and my mission is to help you feel better, faster. Together, we’ll address your struggles head-on, build resilience, and create healthier boundaries for a more fulfilling life.
(504) 499-1205 View (504) 499-1205
Photo of Michael Charles Crosby, MA, PLPC, NCC
Michael Charles Crosby
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor , MA, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70119
I believe that life can be an adventure, but it can be hard to have faith in healing when emotional pain becomes our baseline.
Do you ever feel torn between two parts of you? Do you sometimes feel disconnected from yourself and the people you love? Do you ever have thoughts in your head that scare you? These are all NORMAL experiences that we can seek help for and find relief from. Are you ready to get to the root of painful feelings? My name is Michael Crosby, and my friends describe me as fiercely loyal and intensely curious about human beings. My therapeutic approach can be summarized as “getting down to the bone.”
I believe that life can be an adventure, but it can be hard to have faith in healing when emotional pain becomes our baseline.
Do you ever feel torn between two parts of you? Do you sometimes feel disconnected from yourself and the people you love? Do you ever have thoughts in your head that scare you? These are all NORMAL experiences that we can seek help for and find relief from. Are you ready to get to the root of painful feelings? My name is Michael Crosby, and my friends describe me as fiercely loyal and intensely curious about human beings. My therapeutic approach can be summarized as “getting down to the bone.”
(985) 615-2957 View (985) 615-2957
Photo of Christina Gerteis, LPC, LAC, NCC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Gerteis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70123  (Online Only)
While I can support those experiencing many clinical needs given my extensive training and background, my areas of specialty include: Adolescent and adult trauma, Loss and transition, Phobias and fear, Addictive parts, Living with chronic illness and pain, Anxiety experiences, and Psychedelic integration.
T/W/TH morning and afternoon appointments available currently. What keeps holding you back from experiencing the joy, wholeness, and calm you are seeking? There are parts of self that serve to support us through times of stuck-ness and low points, trauma and loss, complex health experiences and pain, community and environmental crisis, disconnection and isolation in our relationships...and these internal conflicts might be keeping you from a full, authentic connection to yourself and all of your world. Awareness is a big step, yet also needs compassion and integration to energize and grow. Expand your journey. The time is now.
While I can support those experiencing many clinical needs given my extensive training and background, my areas of specialty include: Adolescent and adult trauma, Loss and transition, Phobias and fear, Addictive parts, Living with chronic illness and pain, Anxiety experiences, and Psychedelic integration.
T/W/TH morning and afternoon appointments available currently. What keeps holding you back from experiencing the joy, wholeness, and calm you are seeking? There are parts of self that serve to support us through times of stuck-ness and low points, trauma and loss, complex health experiences and pain, community and environmental crisis, disconnection and isolation in our relationships...and these internal conflicts might be keeping you from a full, authentic connection to yourself and all of your world. Awareness is a big step, yet also needs compassion and integration to energize and grow. Expand your journey. The time is now.
(318) 413-6474 View (318) 413-6474
Photo of Dr. Gloria M. Lanoux Phd, PhD, D-MFT, LPC, NCC, LPN, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Gloria M. Lanoux Phd
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, D-MFT, LPC, NCC, LPN
Verified Verified
Gretna, LA 70056
I specialize in alleviating emotional pain and overcoming life's challenges.
I have the knowledge, wisdom, experience and professionalism to help you with your problems. Ask yourself what will it take to lessen the pain you are experiencing. I can help! Now, ask yourself what makes you feel alive, content and happy? Recognize that working together we can change your desires into realities. I approach psycho-therapeutic counseling in a holistic fashion. I have great successes in assisting patients to cope with anxiety and depression, the traumas of abuse, teen-age cutters, divorce, death/loss, self-injury and debilitating physical injuries. My style of psychotherapy is more than just emotional support.
I specialize in alleviating emotional pain and overcoming life's challenges.
I have the knowledge, wisdom, experience and professionalism to help you with your problems. Ask yourself what will it take to lessen the pain you are experiencing. I can help! Now, ask yourself what makes you feel alive, content and happy? Recognize that working together we can change your desires into realities. I approach psycho-therapeutic counseling in a holistic fashion. I have great successes in assisting patients to cope with anxiety and depression, the traumas of abuse, teen-age cutters, divorce, death/loss, self-injury and debilitating physical injuries. My style of psychotherapy is more than just emotional support.
(504) 667-5775 View (504) 667-5775
Photo of Gabriella Ortiz, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabriella Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001
Since receiving my Masters in Social Work from Tulane University in 2014, I have worked with perinatal populations, those with pregnancy-related concerns, parents of children with special needs, those suffering from chronic pain, victims of domestic violence, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and adults with symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress.
We all have areas of our lives that we would like to improve. My role is to empower my clients with the tools necessary to reach goals, improve relationships, and better understand and accept their emotions. My approach is tailored to meet the needs of each client while identifying and utilizing the client’s strengths, creating a supportive environment focused on growth and healing. I utilize techniques from motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy to provide comprehensive support to clients as they learn to utilize the skills needed to accept and commit to long-term health and happiness.
Since receiving my Masters in Social Work from Tulane University in 2014, I have worked with perinatal populations, those with pregnancy-related concerns, parents of children with special needs, those suffering from chronic pain, victims of domestic violence, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and adults with symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress.
We all have areas of our lives that we would like to improve. My role is to empower my clients with the tools necessary to reach goals, improve relationships, and better understand and accept their emotions. My approach is tailored to meet the needs of each client while identifying and utilizing the client’s strengths, creating a supportive environment focused on growth and healing. I utilize techniques from motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy to provide comprehensive support to clients as they learn to utilize the skills needed to accept and commit to long-term health and happiness.
(504) 732-9472 View (504) 732-9472
Photo of Shannon Anita Mott - Gentilly Behavioral Health, LCSW, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gentilly Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MHP
Verified Verified
Gretna, LA 70053
We all get physically ill sometimes. But there is no stigma in going to get a check up when we don't feel physically well. Unfortunately, there is a stigma attached to obtaining mental health care. Although more than likely at some point in your life, you'll experience some form of mental Illness. It takes a brave person, to move past the stigma of mental illness and get the help that they need. As a Licensed Clinical Social worker/Therapist I have the eclectic skills, knowledge, training and certification to help you get better.
We all get physically ill sometimes. But there is no stigma in going to get a check up when we don't feel physically well. Unfortunately, there is a stigma attached to obtaining mental health care. Although more than likely at some point in your life, you'll experience some form of mental Illness. It takes a brave person, to move past the stigma of mental illness and get the help that they need. As a Licensed Clinical Social worker/Therapist I have the eclectic skills, knowledge, training and certification to help you get better.
(504) 380-9709 View (504) 380-9709
Photo of Dr. Shannon M Poe, DSW, CT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Shannon M Poe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, CT, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70125  (Online Only)
When navigating through life, you may face a time when you lose someone you love, face an illness, or a traumatic time in your own life. You may be going through a transition such as a divorce, move, or job loss. You do not need to navigate these alone! These transitions can affect every facet of life. You may be finding yourself feeling lost, doing your best to make it through day-to-day life. It might be difficult to get out of bed right now, to hold conversations, or to fulfill your caregiving or work responsibilities. You may be feeling anxiety that you would like help with.
When navigating through life, you may face a time when you lose someone you love, face an illness, or a traumatic time in your own life. You may be going through a transition such as a divorce, move, or job loss. You do not need to navigate these alone! These transitions can affect every facet of life. You may be finding yourself feeling lost, doing your best to make it through day-to-day life. It might be difficult to get out of bed right now, to hold conversations, or to fulfill your caregiving or work responsibilities. You may be feeling anxiety that you would like help with.
(504) 370-6294 View (504) 370-6294
Photo of Rebecca Russell, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70117  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with clients who are dealing with issues related to substance use, addictions, gender & sexuality (LGBTQIA+), gender care, and chronic illness, in addition more general stress, depression, and anxiety.
I can help you achieve your goals, such as living a happier, easier, or more fulfilled life. We can work together to implement change in your thought patterns or behaviors in order to reduce distress and improve your quality of life. There are times when you can identify a struggle or obstacle, and you need the right person to support you in order to make changes. Other times you may need support to help you identify what needs to change to reduce distress. We all experience issues beyond our control, but I can help you learn to control how you respond and how your response impacts your wellbeing.
I have extensive experience working with clients who are dealing with issues related to substance use, addictions, gender & sexuality (LGBTQIA+), gender care, and chronic illness, in addition more general stress, depression, and anxiety.
I can help you achieve your goals, such as living a happier, easier, or more fulfilled life. We can work together to implement change in your thought patterns or behaviors in order to reduce distress and improve your quality of life. There are times when you can identify a struggle or obstacle, and you need the right person to support you in order to make changes. Other times you may need support to help you identify what needs to change to reduce distress. We all experience issues beyond our control, but I can help you learn to control how you respond and how your response impacts your wellbeing.
(504) 788-1369 View (504) 788-1369
Photo of Dawn Chiappetta - Light Of Dawn Counseling, LLC, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Light Of Dawn Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70119
It works by identifying, processing, and releasing core neurophysiological sources of emotional/body pain, Depending on the individual, a client can completely heal an issue in a very short amount of time.
I am here for you for the purpose of helping you heal your mind, body & spirit through the innovative and somatic technique of Brainspotting which some call “the new EMDR”. I also offer other counseling modalities such as parts work, talk therapy, visual meditation, inner child work, play & art therapy techniques in order to help you heal trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, & the difficulties of life in general.
It works by identifying, processing, and releasing core neurophysiological sources of emotional/body pain, Depending on the individual, a client can completely heal an issue in a very short amount of time.
I am here for you for the purpose of helping you heal your mind, body & spirit through the innovative and somatic technique of Brainspotting which some call “the new EMDR”. I also offer other counseling modalities such as parts work, talk therapy, visual meditation, inner child work, play & art therapy techniques in order to help you heal trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, & the difficulties of life in general.
(504) 226-5230 View (504) 226-5230
Photo of Marlo Best, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marlo Best
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Harvey, LA 70059  (Online Only)
knowing where to begin when seeking help can be tough. If you wonder if you are in the right place to get help, here are 8 examples, you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, you cannot escape asking why this happened to you, you have done everything you know to do, you are consumed during the day and lie awake at night fighting fears, discomfort, and pain, you struggle to articulate/deny feelings of guilt and shame, you feel inadequate and different, you seek to find or realign with your purpose, at times, your life does not feel worthy of living.
knowing where to begin when seeking help can be tough. If you wonder if you are in the right place to get help, here are 8 examples, you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, you cannot escape asking why this happened to you, you have done everything you know to do, you are consumed during the day and lie awake at night fighting fears, discomfort, and pain, you struggle to articulate/deny feelings of guilt and shame, you feel inadequate and different, you seek to find or realign with your purpose, at times, your life does not feel worthy of living.
(504) 285-4074 View (504) 285-4074
Photo of Travis Pollard, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Travis Pollard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002
I have additional training in using EMDR for attachment wounds and complex childhood trauma, as well as chronic pain, single event trauma, and grief.
I have experience working with clients from various backgrounds, presenting with multiple different mental health concerns. I have the most experience and training in working with survivors of trauma. Many of my clients have suffered unbearable loss, abuse, neglect, and traumatic experiences outside of their control. They need help in identifying and regaining control over their symptoms that stem from the trauma they have endured. They need a safe relationship in which they are able to reprocess the events and reactions to the hardest things they have experienced. They want to not feel trapped in their traumatic memory.
I have additional training in using EMDR for attachment wounds and complex childhood trauma, as well as chronic pain, single event trauma, and grief.
I have experience working with clients from various backgrounds, presenting with multiple different mental health concerns. I have the most experience and training in working with survivors of trauma. Many of my clients have suffered unbearable loss, abuse, neglect, and traumatic experiences outside of their control. They need help in identifying and regaining control over their symptoms that stem from the trauma they have endured. They need a safe relationship in which they are able to reprocess the events and reactions to the hardest things they have experienced. They want to not feel trapped in their traumatic memory.
(504) 384-6950 View (504) 384-6950
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.