Chronic Pain Therapists in Newton Centre, MA

Photo of Erin Kuehn, MSW, LICSW, CAGS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Kuehn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CAGS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
I access various treatment modalities including CBT, ERP, ACT, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Meditation & Yoga, & I treat a variety of conditions such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, OCD, substance use & trauma.
Hi! I hope that you find this information helpful. Cultivating health, healing & change guides my work as a clinical social worker. As your therapist, I can provide you with a supportive & collaborative partnership to help with your current circumstances & propel you toward your goals. Through connection and compassion, you will be able to increase your self-awareness & make choices about how you want to respond to your experiences. Using various resources & strategies, you will be an active participant in your treatment and develop the skills you need to provide yourself with effective self-care.
I access various treatment modalities including CBT, ERP, ACT, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Meditation & Yoga, & I treat a variety of conditions such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, OCD, substance use & trauma.
Hi! I hope that you find this information helpful. Cultivating health, healing & change guides my work as a clinical social worker. As your therapist, I can provide you with a supportive & collaborative partnership to help with your current circumstances & propel you toward your goals. Through connection and compassion, you will be able to increase your self-awareness & make choices about how you want to respond to your experiences. Using various resources & strategies, you will be an active participant in your treatment and develop the skills you need to provide yourself with effective self-care.
(617) 663-8814 View (617) 663-8814
Photo of Richard L Phillipps, LICSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Richard L Phillipps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
For over 30 years I've been helping people overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable. I have special expertise in the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, and emotional issues related to physical illness. My dual background in Public Health and Social Work enables me to help people who have both psychological and health issues. I'm a strong advocate for family, peer and community support when acceptable to my clients.
For over 30 years I've been helping people overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable. I have special expertise in the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, and emotional issues related to physical illness. My dual background in Public Health and Social Work enables me to help people who have both psychological and health issues. I'm a strong advocate for family, peer and community support when acceptable to my clients.
(617) 440-7138 View (617) 440-7138
Photo of Susan E Norman, LICSW, BCD, QCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan E Norman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD, QCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
As a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work with 30 years experience, I've worked in hospitals, clinics, guidance centers, courts, and on psychiatric emergency teams. I have advanced training in eating disorders&depression and have consulted to the community on issues of ADHD, obesity,alcoholism, grief,parenting, geriatric care and trained graduate students from area colleges in short/ long term psychotherapy. The foundation of my training is psychodynamic. Additional training in cognitive behavior, family systems, and coaching, has created an integrated approach to my treatment of individuals, couples,and families. Careful assessment determines which approach best suits each patient.
As a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work with 30 years experience, I've worked in hospitals, clinics, guidance centers, courts, and on psychiatric emergency teams. I have advanced training in eating disorders&depression and have consulted to the community on issues of ADHD, obesity,alcoholism, grief,parenting, geriatric care and trained graduate students from area colleges in short/ long term psychotherapy. The foundation of my training is psychodynamic. Additional training in cognitive behavior, family systems, and coaching, has created an integrated approach to my treatment of individuals, couples,and families. Careful assessment determines which approach best suits each patient.
(617) 446-3125 View (617) 446-3125
Photo of Fran Kuehn, LICSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fran Kuehn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
CBT really works! Especially when you are working with a trained and experienced therapist. I hold advanced certification in Cognitive Behavior Therapy and use this approach exclusively. Together we will work to improve your insight, mood and motivation. You will learn what influences your mood and decision-making, and how ways of thinking and doing can lead to feeling stuck and hopeless. In addition to CBT, I can teach you powerful skills to improve distress tolerance and emotional regulation. These are skills you will learn to use now, and can rely on in the future.
CBT really works! Especially when you are working with a trained and experienced therapist. I hold advanced certification in Cognitive Behavior Therapy and use this approach exclusively. Together we will work to improve your insight, mood and motivation. You will learn what influences your mood and decision-making, and how ways of thinking and doing can lead to feeling stuck and hopeless. In addition to CBT, I can teach you powerful skills to improve distress tolerance and emotional regulation. These are skills you will learn to use now, and can rely on in the future.
(617) 702-2038 View (617) 702-2038

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of John D Otis, PhD, Psychologist
John D Otis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
I have over 25 years of experience in providing evidence-based treatment for adults and teens who have conditions including anxiety disorders (panic disorder, OCD, generalized anxiety), depression, and chronic pain. I completed my graduate training at the University of Florida in 2000 and I have been practicing in Boston since 2002. I am a Research Associate Professor at Boston University in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences where I teach graduate courses in psychology.
I have over 25 years of experience in providing evidence-based treatment for adults and teens who have conditions including anxiety disorders (panic disorder, OCD, generalized anxiety), depression, and chronic pain. I completed my graduate training at the University of Florida in 2000 and I have been practicing in Boston since 2002. I am a Research Associate Professor at Boston University in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences where I teach graduate courses in psychology.
(617) 433-5360 View (617) 433-5360
Photo of John C Smolenski Jr - Paragon Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, Counselor
Paragon Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02456  (Online Only)
I bring over 10 years of experience helping clients with: depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, physical disability, chronic health issues, chronic pain, and college-age/emerging adults coping with difficult life adjustments.
Are you exhausted by the daily struggle of living with depression, anxiety, or self-esteem issues? Does academic stress or entering into adulthood feel like an impossible challenge? Do you live with chronic pain, disability, or health conditions that cause emotional distress or feelings of isolation? Our mission is to excel at facilitating the positive change and healing you've been needing in your life. We achieve this not only with talk-therapy, but also by teaching applicable skills and coping strategies to be used daily as you navigate through adversity and strive for self-growth.
I bring over 10 years of experience helping clients with: depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, physical disability, chronic health issues, chronic pain, and college-age/emerging adults coping with difficult life adjustments.
Are you exhausted by the daily struggle of living with depression, anxiety, or self-esteem issues? Does academic stress or entering into adulthood feel like an impossible challenge? Do you live with chronic pain, disability, or health conditions that cause emotional distress or feelings of isolation? Our mission is to excel at facilitating the positive change and healing you've been needing in your life. We achieve this not only with talk-therapy, but also by teaching applicable skills and coping strategies to be used daily as you navigate through adversity and strive for self-growth.
(339) 220-5568 View (339) 220-5568
Photo of Jesse D Kosiba, PhD, Psychologist
Jesse D Kosiba
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the assessment and treatment of addictions, substance use problems, anxiety and mood disorders, and persistent pain conditions. My therapeutic approach is built on thoughtful collaboration as a foundation for meaningful and lasting change. I believe that therapy is most effective when approached in a supportive and flexible manner and grounded in the most up-to-date evidence-based treatments. In terms of substance use/addictions, I work with clients to carefully identify and work toward their goals regardless of moderation or abstinence.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the assessment and treatment of addictions, substance use problems, anxiety and mood disorders, and persistent pain conditions. My therapeutic approach is built on thoughtful collaboration as a foundation for meaningful and lasting change. I believe that therapy is most effective when approached in a supportive and flexible manner and grounded in the most up-to-date evidence-based treatments. In terms of substance use/addictions, I work with clients to carefully identify and work toward their goals regardless of moderation or abstinence.
(857) 340-5579 View (857) 340-5579
Photo of Joel D Ziff, EdD, CSAT-S, Psychologist
Joel D Ziff
Psychologist, EdD, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Waban, MA 02468
I currently have openings in groups for men in recovery from sex addiction and intimacy disorders. I am a certified Sex Addiction Therapist Supervisor (CSAT-S). In addition to facilitating groups, I work with individuals, couples, and families focused on coping with challenges of sex addiction and intimacy disorders. I also work with clients coping with issues related to chronic/catastrophic illness, pain management, relationship issues (couples, children, and families), phobias, post-traumatic stress, and mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bi-polar).
I currently have openings in groups for men in recovery from sex addiction and intimacy disorders. I am a certified Sex Addiction Therapist Supervisor (CSAT-S). In addition to facilitating groups, I work with individuals, couples, and families focused on coping with challenges of sex addiction and intimacy disorders. I also work with clients coping with issues related to chronic/catastrophic illness, pain management, relationship issues (couples, children, and families), phobias, post-traumatic stress, and mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bi-polar).
(617) 307-4807 View (617) 307-4807
Photo of Michael Schonberg, PhD, Psychologist
Michael Schonberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
I have experience in treating individuals with anxiety, OCD, depression, mood disorders, chronic pain, misophonia, anger, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Autism Spectrum, tics, nail biting, hair pulling, highly sensitive individuals, and people in the midst of relationship struggles.
Change is hard, but less so with help. I hope I can be your guide through the change process. I am a clinical psychologist trained in CBT. I have a faculty appointment at Harvard Medical School and am on staff in the Department of Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital. I run a private practice on Sunday mornings and have intermittent availability during the rest of the week. I am comfortable providing treatment in an individual or family context, whichever better fits your needs. I am results driven, but also warm and sensitive.
I have experience in treating individuals with anxiety, OCD, depression, mood disorders, chronic pain, misophonia, anger, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Autism Spectrum, tics, nail biting, hair pulling, highly sensitive individuals, and people in the midst of relationship struggles.
Change is hard, but less so with help. I hope I can be your guide through the change process. I am a clinical psychologist trained in CBT. I have a faculty appointment at Harvard Medical School and am on staff in the Department of Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital. I run a private practice on Sunday mornings and have intermittent availability during the rest of the week. I am comfortable providing treatment in an individual or family context, whichever better fits your needs. I am results driven, but also warm and sensitive.
(412) 419-2743 View (412) 419-2743
Photo of Judith B Sonner - Newton Biofeedback, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Newton Biofeedback
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02461
I've been a practicing LICSW, for 28 years specializing in Life Coaching, Biofeedback, Neurofeedback, Hypnosis, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for stress-related conditions, such as Migraines, Anxiety, Hypertension, Chronic pain, Weight loss, Insomnia and Tinnitus. Most people are unaware of ways in which our bodies react to thoughts and emotions.Your response to stress compromises your health and interferes with reaching personal goals.There is no need to suffer. I can help you to stop using ineffective coping skills and begin learning successful skills to achieve your full potential in all aspects of your life: Family, career, finances, relationships, and health.
I've been a practicing LICSW, for 28 years specializing in Life Coaching, Biofeedback, Neurofeedback, Hypnosis, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for stress-related conditions, such as Migraines, Anxiety, Hypertension, Chronic pain, Weight loss, Insomnia and Tinnitus. Most people are unaware of ways in which our bodies react to thoughts and emotions.Your response to stress compromises your health and interferes with reaching personal goals.There is no need to suffer. I can help you to stop using ineffective coping skills and begin learning successful skills to achieve your full potential in all aspects of your life: Family, career, finances, relationships, and health.
(617) 410-8525 View (617) 410-8525
Photo of Dr. Tim Ridge, PsyD, LMHC, LMFT, Psychologist
Dr. Tim Ridge
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02458
You don't have to carry this pain.
Are you dealing with anxiety, sadness, shame, grief, trauma or stuff you really want to let go of in your life? Or perhaps you are feeling a sense of not being good enough, struggling with confidence and self-criticism? Pain may show up as feeling numb or angry, withdrawing from school or work, family and friends. Hiding the stress doesn't help you feel better. My approach is collaborative and non-judgmental, focused on helping you deal with pain from the past and deal with present challenges with greater ease and confidence. If you'd like to feel better about yourself and your life, I can help you get there.
You don't have to carry this pain.
Are you dealing with anxiety, sadness, shame, grief, trauma or stuff you really want to let go of in your life? Or perhaps you are feeling a sense of not being good enough, struggling with confidence and self-criticism? Pain may show up as feeling numb or angry, withdrawing from school or work, family and friends. Hiding the stress doesn't help you feel better. My approach is collaborative and non-judgmental, focused on helping you deal with pain from the past and deal with present challenges with greater ease and confidence. If you'd like to feel better about yourself and your life, I can help you get there.
(781) 990-0825 View (781) 990-0825
Photo of Joan Hanania, PhD, Psychologist
Joan Hanania
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02456  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, adjustment concerns, and medical coping with chronic illness.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Dana-Farber and Boston Children’s Hospital and an Instructor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School where I participate in additional teaching, training, and research. In my small private practice, I work with children, young adults, and parents.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, adjustment concerns, and medical coping with chronic illness.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Dana-Farber and Boston Children’s Hospital and an Instructor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School where I participate in additional teaching, training, and research. In my small private practice, I work with children, young adults, and parents.
(774) 804-5922 View (774) 804-5922
Photo of Mya Fonarov, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mya Fonarov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Needham, MA 02492  (Online Only)
I provide therapy to adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions, grief, post-partum depression, pregnancy loss, infertility, eating disorders, relationship problems, family issues, academic and occupational stress, life transitions, and physical illness. My background is eclectic. I have a masters degree in social work, education, and engineering. I also am a certified yoga teacher which I incorporate into my practice through mindfulness and relaxation techniques. I love to learn and always pursue advanced trainings to stay current in my practice. I am passionate and committed to my work with clients; it has enriched and deepened my life.
I provide therapy to adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions, grief, post-partum depression, pregnancy loss, infertility, eating disorders, relationship problems, family issues, academic and occupational stress, life transitions, and physical illness. My background is eclectic. I have a masters degree in social work, education, and engineering. I also am a certified yoga teacher which I incorporate into my practice through mindfulness and relaxation techniques. I love to learn and always pursue advanced trainings to stay current in my practice. I am passionate and committed to my work with clients; it has enriched and deepened my life.
(617) 446-3077 View (617) 446-3077
Photo of Danielle Buckman, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Buckman
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
I am a licensed psychotherapist trained to work with individuals, couples, and families. I have a doctorate in counseling psychology from Boston University. In clinical practice I have worked in a multi-cultural mental health center, the Veteran's Administration, Boston University Student Counseling and private practice helping many clients manage and master the change process. Together, we work toward healing and change. My approach is active and empathic and can take the form of short-term problem solving approach or more in-depth exploration. Clients learn to decrease stress in their lives whether due to anxiety, depression, work, personal relationships or chronic illness.
I am a licensed psychotherapist trained to work with individuals, couples, and families. I have a doctorate in counseling psychology from Boston University. In clinical practice I have worked in a multi-cultural mental health center, the Veteran's Administration, Boston University Student Counseling and private practice helping many clients manage and master the change process. Together, we work toward healing and change. My approach is active and empathic and can take the form of short-term problem solving approach or more in-depth exploration. Clients learn to decrease stress in their lives whether due to anxiety, depression, work, personal relationships or chronic illness.
(617) 237-6141 View (617) 237-6141
Photo of Carrie Wechsler, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carrie Wechsler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Needham, MA 02494  (Online Only)
Welcome! If you are experiencing concerns around anxiety, depressed mood, a serious/chronic illness, poor sleep, grief or other life stressors then you may find my therapeutic approach beneficial. People who come to therapy with me should expect a supportive, respectful and collaborative space in our sessions. Focusing on the issues that are most important to you, we would work to explore effective coping strategies, increase your motivation and build your confidence to pursue a path that is in line with your goals and values.
Welcome! If you are experiencing concerns around anxiety, depressed mood, a serious/chronic illness, poor sleep, grief or other life stressors then you may find my therapeutic approach beneficial. People who come to therapy with me should expect a supportive, respectful and collaborative space in our sessions. Focusing on the issues that are most important to you, we would work to explore effective coping strategies, increase your motivation and build your confidence to pursue a path that is in line with your goals and values.
(781) 253-8656 View (781) 253-8656
Photo of Aviva R Bock, MA, EdM, CCMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Aviva R Bock
Counselor, MA, EdM, CCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
Claim your right to a live a fulfilling life today unburdened by the past? The ability to cope and respond more effectively, even in the face of ongoing stress and pain, can make a huge difference.
From self criticism to self compassion. An open calm curious genuine exploration No shaming, no judgment only a question: What happened? What curve balls did life sent your way? My approach is holistic integrative and relational. If it works for you I will introduce you to a tool box of resources: somatic, energetic, EMDR, Flash etc as together we make sense of where you are now, what you are feeling, how to help you shift to a place of renewed empowerment and control, to be who you want to be and feel how you want to feel? A system/soul update to a renewed place of joy peace and harmony.
Claim your right to a live a fulfilling life today unburdened by the past? The ability to cope and respond more effectively, even in the face of ongoing stress and pain, can make a huge difference.
From self criticism to self compassion. An open calm curious genuine exploration No shaming, no judgment only a question: What happened? What curve balls did life sent your way? My approach is holistic integrative and relational. If it works for you I will introduce you to a tool box of resources: somatic, energetic, EMDR, Flash etc as together we make sense of where you are now, what you are feeling, how to help you shift to a place of renewed empowerment and control, to be who you want to be and feel how you want to feel? A system/soul update to a renewed place of joy peace and harmony.
(617) 446-3042 View (617) 446-3042
Photo of Katy Litwak, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katy Litwak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
I work with people who are personally struggling or have family members struggling with challenges such as medical illness/ chronic pain, grief/loss, life transitions, relationships, substance abuse/misuse, mental illness, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I believe psychotherapy is a powerful means of facilitating personal growth and deepening relationships and connection. My clients describe me as genuine, warm, and interactive. My goal is to help you access your inner strength and resilience so you may better cope with problems and adversity, find solutions, and make positive changes you hope to achieve. My years practicing in outpatient mental health and primary care medical settings have afforded me rich experience with clients diverse in background and a broad range of issues.
I work with people who are personally struggling or have family members struggling with challenges such as medical illness/ chronic pain, grief/loss, life transitions, relationships, substance abuse/misuse, mental illness, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I believe psychotherapy is a powerful means of facilitating personal growth and deepening relationships and connection. My clients describe me as genuine, warm, and interactive. My goal is to help you access your inner strength and resilience so you may better cope with problems and adversity, find solutions, and make positive changes you hope to achieve. My years practicing in outpatient mental health and primary care medical settings have afforded me rich experience with clients diverse in background and a broad range of issues.
(617) 936-8074 View (617) 936-8074
Photo of Sharon Polk-Sadownik, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Polk-Sadownik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02458
I have over 25 years of experience successfully treating adults and late teens who struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, alcohol and drug abuse, grief and loss, chronic illness, and divorce.
My clients would tell you that I'm warm, compassionate, practical and real. I work creatively to address your individual needs and use a blend of methods including cognitive behavioral therapy, mind body integration, family systems, and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
I have over 25 years of experience successfully treating adults and late teens who struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, alcohol and drug abuse, grief and loss, chronic illness, and divorce.
My clients would tell you that I'm warm, compassionate, practical and real. I work creatively to address your individual needs and use a blend of methods including cognitive behavioral therapy, mind body integration, family systems, and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
(617) 553-9421 View (617) 553-9421
Photo of Hannah Shulman, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Hannah Shulman
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! If you would like to learn various stress management techniques for everyday life, curious about the mindfulness practice, or would like a safe space to answer the question, "what does relaxation feel like for me?" to better reduce anxiety symptoms, I am here to help through Stress Management And Resiliency Training (SMART). I typically work with adults who are experiencing situational stressors/life changes, grief, caregiving, PTSD/trauma histories, anxiety/depressive disorders, and those who want to better cope with chronic illness diagnoses (cancer, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, pain, insomnia & more).
Hello and welcome! If you would like to learn various stress management techniques for everyday life, curious about the mindfulness practice, or would like a safe space to answer the question, "what does relaxation feel like for me?" to better reduce anxiety symptoms, I am here to help through Stress Management And Resiliency Training (SMART). I typically work with adults who are experiencing situational stressors/life changes, grief, caregiving, PTSD/trauma histories, anxiety/depressive disorders, and those who want to better cope with chronic illness diagnoses (cancer, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, pain, insomnia & more).
(857) 707-4210 View (857) 707-4210
Photo of Frances T. Spillane, LMHC, LLC, Counselor
Frances T. Spillane
Counselor, LMHC, LLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
I work with clients age 30+, and specialize in therapies that go beyond traditional talk therapy to resolve root causes of your pain.
Are you feeling stuck in pain, anxiety, or difficult relationships? Unresolved trauma can quietly shape your life, showing up in ways you might not realize - whether it's rooted in childhood, recent events, or ongoing relationship struggles. I specialize in helping you move past the pain, and claiming your self-love and peace. Often, anxiety, depression, or PTSD arise from unresolved trauma still held in your nervous system. Even if you're not fully aware of the source, it can manifest in ways like emotional outbursts, feeling shut down, distancing yourself from others, or constantly striving to please.
I work with clients age 30+, and specialize in therapies that go beyond traditional talk therapy to resolve root causes of your pain.
Are you feeling stuck in pain, anxiety, or difficult relationships? Unresolved trauma can quietly shape your life, showing up in ways you might not realize - whether it's rooted in childhood, recent events, or ongoing relationship struggles. I specialize in helping you move past the pain, and claiming your self-love and peace. Often, anxiety, depression, or PTSD arise from unresolved trauma still held in your nervous system. Even if you're not fully aware of the source, it can manifest in ways like emotional outbursts, feeling shut down, distancing yourself from others, or constantly striving to please.
(857) 855-4417 View (857) 855-4417

See more therapy options for Newton Centre

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.