Chronic Pain Therapists in Norfolk, MA

Photo of Ellen S Leventhal Lmft, MEd, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellen S Leventhal Lmft
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norfolk, MA 02056
Symptoms such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief, illness, infertility, infidelity, and low self- esteem can contribute to personal and relationship problems.
I help my clients feel better about themselves and deal more effectively with the people in their lives. Do you sometimes wonder how to get your partner or children to understand you? Are you feeling frustrated and don't know who to talk with? Do you want to increase your effectiveness with others? It is so very important to be known and understood by the people that you care about the most. Your relationships have the potential to become a place where you can bring more joy and happiness into your life.
Symptoms such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief, illness, infertility, infidelity, and low self- esteem can contribute to personal and relationship problems.
I help my clients feel better about themselves and deal more effectively with the people in their lives. Do you sometimes wonder how to get your partner or children to understand you? Are you feeling frustrated and don't know who to talk with? Do you want to increase your effectiveness with others? It is so very important to be known and understood by the people that you care about the most. Your relationships have the potential to become a place where you can bring more joy and happiness into your life.
(508) 455-5176 View (508) 455-5176
Photo of Sarah Roman, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Roman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, MA 02056
Welcome! I am a LICSW working with individuals and couples for over 10 years. I use various therapeutic approaches to meet each client's needs. My approach is empathetic, collaborative, and evidence-based. I'm committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where individuals can explore their emotions, develop new coping strategies, and create positive change within their lives. While working together, you will be able to express yourself in a safe, non-judgmental space. I provide support to individuals related to anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, maternal mental health, and stress management/life transitions.
Welcome! I am a LICSW working with individuals and couples for over 10 years. I use various therapeutic approaches to meet each client's needs. My approach is empathetic, collaborative, and evidence-based. I'm committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where individuals can explore their emotions, develop new coping strategies, and create positive change within their lives. While working together, you will be able to express yourself in a safe, non-judgmental space. I provide support to individuals related to anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, maternal mental health, and stress management/life transitions.
(774) 238-5960 View (774) 238-5960
Photo of Laura Bullis - 5-0 Mental Health , MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
5-0 Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Norfolk, MA 02056  (Online Only)
With over 15 years of experience in law enforcement/mental health, I bring a unique perspective to my practice. I have a Master's degree in Social Work and am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. Additionally, I hold a Graduate Certificate in Crisis Response and Behavioral Health. I understand the challenges faced by those in demanding professions, from administrative issues and critical incidents, to family stress, injuries, depression, and anxiety. I am a validating and direct professional, focused on solutions, and I encourage clients to dig deep and embrace vulnerability, even when it's challenging. I believe in the
With over 15 years of experience in law enforcement/mental health, I bring a unique perspective to my practice. I have a Master's degree in Social Work and am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. Additionally, I hold a Graduate Certificate in Crisis Response and Behavioral Health. I understand the challenges faced by those in demanding professions, from administrative issues and critical incidents, to family stress, injuries, depression, and anxiety. I am a validating and direct professional, focused on solutions, and I encourage clients to dig deep and embrace vulnerability, even when it's challenging. I believe in the
(857) 675-8762 View (857) 675-8762
Photo of Jessica B Edwards George, PhD, NSCP, Psychologist
Jessica B Edwards George
Psychologist, PhD, NSCP
Verified Verified
Norfolk, MA 02056
I am dedicated to improving the lives of children, adolescents, young adults, and families through innovative, person centered, evidence-based psychological diagnostic assessment and treatments.
I am dedicated to improving the lives of children, adolescents, young adults, and families through innovative, person centered, evidence-based psychological diagnostic assessment and treatments.
(774) 854-3138 View (774) 854-3138

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of William Jackson Mindfulness Based Therapy, PsyD, Psychologist
William Jackson Mindfulness Based Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sharon, MA 02067
I specialize in mindfulness based therapies and working with patients with co-morbid anxiety, depression, mood disturbance and other psychological symptoms causing, attributing or resulting from chronic pain or illness.
Where do you want to be in your life? What are the clear and practical steps to get there? How do you find the understanding, compassion and motivation to take those steps? These are the kinds of questions we will address while working together. As a clinical health psychologist and former Buddhist monk I use a collaborative approach focused on developing more personal well-being. I am a husband, father, brother and business owner who values individual perspectives, personal priorities and kindness. I am hard to offend and quick to trust with a healthy sense of humor.
I specialize in mindfulness based therapies and working with patients with co-morbid anxiety, depression, mood disturbance and other psychological symptoms causing, attributing or resulting from chronic pain or illness.
Where do you want to be in your life? What are the clear and practical steps to get there? How do you find the understanding, compassion and motivation to take those steps? These are the kinds of questions we will address while working together. As a clinical health psychologist and former Buddhist monk I use a collaborative approach focused on developing more personal well-being. I am a husband, father, brother and business owner who values individual perspectives, personal priorities and kindness. I am hard to offend and quick to trust with a healthy sense of humor.
(617) 487-4129 View (617) 487-4129
Photo of Lori Miller-Freitas, LICSW, NBCCH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Miller-Freitas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, NBCCH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sharon, MA 02067
I am a trauma specialist that has found that the disturbing events and large traumas in life can create anxiety, depression, chronic pain and illness.
I believe that therapy helps people move through the blocks in their life that keep them from meeting their full potential. The therapies I use, EMDR, Brainspotting, Gentle Reprocessing and Hypnotherapy dissolve those blocks. It could be past trauma or the smaller traumas in life that leave us with negative beliefs that prevent full access to our core. Get to your core and change your life! EMDR, Brainspotting, Gentle Reprocessing, Hypnosis, TAT, other energy therapies will facilitate the healthy change you desire.
I am a trauma specialist that has found that the disturbing events and large traumas in life can create anxiety, depression, chronic pain and illness.
I believe that therapy helps people move through the blocks in their life that keep them from meeting their full potential. The therapies I use, EMDR, Brainspotting, Gentle Reprocessing and Hypnotherapy dissolve those blocks. It could be past trauma or the smaller traumas in life that leave us with negative beliefs that prevent full access to our core. Get to your core and change your life! EMDR, Brainspotting, Gentle Reprocessing, Hypnosis, TAT, other energy therapies will facilitate the healthy change you desire.
(781) 990-0203 View (781) 990-0203
Photo of Lisa M Hoffman, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa M Hoffman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wrentham, MA 02093  (Online Only)
Are you are seeking therapy because you are in the midst of a crisis? Are you wanting to unravel and alter unhelpful and/or destructive life patterns? I work with individuals and couples and have expertise in a wide-range of areas. These areas include relationship conflicts, anxiety, depression, trauma, medical illness and substance-use disorders.
Are you are seeking therapy because you are in the midst of a crisis? Are you wanting to unravel and alter unhelpful and/or destructive life patterns? I work with individuals and couples and have expertise in a wide-range of areas. These areas include relationship conflicts, anxiety, depression, trauma, medical illness and substance-use disorders.
(508) 928-5139 View (508) 928-5139
Photo of Melissa Grieco-Waters, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Grieco-Waters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Canton, MA 02021
In my 20+ years in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals dealing with a wide range of challenges and experiences. Each person has their own unique experience in life and with mental health issues and stressors. I feel therapy should be individualized to the person and each session should aim to offer growth and insight. I offer space for folks to feel accepted, safe and heard. I am especially committed to treating the LGBTGIA+ community, those seeking gender affirming care (trans/NB), neurodiverse folks, people coping with chronic pain/medical issues. Issues specific to women and AFAB folks.
In my 20+ years in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals dealing with a wide range of challenges and experiences. Each person has their own unique experience in life and with mental health issues and stressors. I feel therapy should be individualized to the person and each session should aim to offer growth and insight. I offer space for folks to feel accepted, safe and heard. I am especially committed to treating the LGBTGIA+ community, those seeking gender affirming care (trans/NB), neurodiverse folks, people coping with chronic pain/medical issues. Issues specific to women and AFAB folks.
(339) 220-5347 View (339) 220-5347
Photo of Daniel Epstein, MA, LMT, LMHC, Counselor
Daniel Epstein
Counselor, MA, LMT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sharon, MA 02067
My specialties include anxiety, depression, addiction, as well as chronic pain syndromes.
If you're seeking help with anxiety, depression, addiction or couples issues, I can support you to access the power of your body and mind to resolve painful and persistent symptoms by finding new ways of thinking and feeling. I love helping people find solutions and skills to improve their experience of life. Sometimes it takes understanding and resolving trauma and others it seems a matter of learning new skills and making new steps toward a better life. I believe deeply in one's own inner wisdom and ability to change, no matter what the circumstances have been .
My specialties include anxiety, depression, addiction, as well as chronic pain syndromes.
If you're seeking help with anxiety, depression, addiction or couples issues, I can support you to access the power of your body and mind to resolve painful and persistent symptoms by finding new ways of thinking and feeling. I love helping people find solutions and skills to improve their experience of life. Sometimes it takes understanding and resolving trauma and others it seems a matter of learning new skills and making new steps toward a better life. I believe deeply in one's own inner wisdom and ability to change, no matter what the circumstances have been .
(339) 234-9979 View (339) 234-9979
Photo of Jes Means - Jes Means-The Therapy Space LLC, LMHC, Counselor
Jes Means-The Therapy Space LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Norwood, MA 02062  (Online Only)
If you’re trapped in a spiral of anxiety or depression, here is a hand reaching out to slow your momentum and create space for peace. Are you struggling to find a way to break the cycle of stress? Let me help you find a way to regain control. I specialize in working with individuals who may have a physical disability, chronic pain, trauma, grief, as well as LGBTQAI+ issues.
If you’re trapped in a spiral of anxiety or depression, here is a hand reaching out to slow your momentum and create space for peace. Are you struggling to find a way to break the cycle of stress? Let me help you find a way to regain control. I specialize in working with individuals who may have a physical disability, chronic pain, trauma, grief, as well as LGBTQAI+ issues.
(781) 544-2366 View (781) 544-2366
Photo of Juliana Zee, PsyD, Psychologist
Juliana Zee
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Plainville, MA 02762
Waitlist for new clients
Please Note: I presently am not accepting new patients. If you are managing a recent loss, coping with anxiety, depression or physical illness, it can be helpful to talk to a therapist. I enjoy working with people from adolescent to elder, and with couples of any age. Sometimes anxiety can keep us from accomplishing what we want to in life, or insomnia makes it difficult to engage with the world as fully as we would like to. I have worked with many of these kinds of issues, as well as those experiencing life-changing health problems including diabetes, pain and cancer.
Please Note: I presently am not accepting new patients. If you are managing a recent loss, coping with anxiety, depression or physical illness, it can be helpful to talk to a therapist. I enjoy working with people from adolescent to elder, and with couples of any age. Sometimes anxiety can keep us from accomplishing what we want to in life, or insomnia makes it difficult to engage with the world as fully as we would like to. I have worked with many of these kinds of issues, as well as those experiencing life-changing health problems including diabetes, pain and cancer.
(508) 406-9537 View (508) 406-9537
Photo of Gabrielle Orcha, MA, MFA
Gabrielle Orcha
MA, MFA
Verified Verified
Medfield, MA 02052
In working with clients, I consider the whole person, their mind, their body, their spirit. These three aspects aren’t separate but are in dynamic conversation: chronic physical symptoms are connected to our mental and emotional states, our feelings of depression relate to how we treat and relate to our bodies and sensorial lives. I enjoy supporting people facing life’s challenges, who are looking for a somatic dimension to their healing. I specialize in helping clients navigate difficult relationships, cope with grief and chronic illness, process the pandemic, and manifest greater depth, vibrancy, and purpose in their lives.
In working with clients, I consider the whole person, their mind, their body, their spirit. These three aspects aren’t separate but are in dynamic conversation: chronic physical symptoms are connected to our mental and emotional states, our feelings of depression relate to how we treat and relate to our bodies and sensorial lives. I enjoy supporting people facing life’s challenges, who are looking for a somatic dimension to their healing. I specialize in helping clients navigate difficult relationships, cope with grief and chronic illness, process the pandemic, and manifest greater depth, vibrancy, and purpose in their lives.
(508) 403-9739 View (508) 403-9739
Photo of Susan Nisenbaum Becker, LCSW, LADC, RDT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Nisenbaum Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, RDT
Verified Verified
Foxboro, MA 02035
I have been been in private practice for over 20 years and find I remain engaged and excited about my work. I strive to develop good rapport and an empathetic connection with each person, to be an ally and guide, and to develop a good working relationship where together clients and I can focus on their desired changes. My goal is to foster a safe and supportive place for clients to work to transform their challenges regarding mood, addiction, relationship, spirituality, parenting, life transitions, illness, loss, divorce, creative/performance blocks, body image and self esteem.
I have been been in private practice for over 20 years and find I remain engaged and excited about my work. I strive to develop good rapport and an empathetic connection with each person, to be an ally and guide, and to develop a good working relationship where together clients and I can focus on their desired changes. My goal is to foster a safe and supportive place for clients to work to transform their challenges regarding mood, addiction, relationship, spirituality, parenting, life transitions, illness, loss, divorce, creative/performance blocks, body image and self esteem.
(508) 342-8174 View (508) 342-8174
Photo of Maryellen Newman - A New Approach, LMHC, BCBA, LABA, Counselor
A New Approach
Counselor, LMHC, BCBA, LABA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sharon, MA 02067
We have therapists that specialize in grief, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, family systems, life transitions, parenting.
What if each member of your home could find happiness? Lower stress? Improve behavior? Communicate more effectively? Stop walking on eggshells? Manage their emotions? What if life became a little easier or more bearable, or even enjoyable?! What if the tension was lower? We work with children, adults and family units to learn what those unhelpful thinking patterns are and how to change them; how to move away from isolation; change behavior so there are more positive outcomes; take back control of their emotions and their lives; connect more deeply.
We have therapists that specialize in grief, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, family systems, life transitions, parenting.
What if each member of your home could find happiness? Lower stress? Improve behavior? Communicate more effectively? Stop walking on eggshells? Manage their emotions? What if life became a little easier or more bearable, or even enjoyable?! What if the tension was lower? We work with children, adults and family units to learn what those unhelpful thinking patterns are and how to change them; how to move away from isolation; change behavior so there are more positive outcomes; take back control of their emotions and their lives; connect more deeply.
(339) 217-8805 View (339) 217-8805
Photo of Susan P. Cetlin, PhD, Psychologist
Susan P. Cetlin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sharon, MA 02067
Mindfulness meditation, as well as other mind/body techniques, is a powerful tool to alleviate stress, anxiety and pain, gain awareness, and tap into a reservoir of creativity, calm, wisdom and joy.
In a warm, compassionate & friendly manner, I hope to guide my clients to identify and alleviate life challenges and empower them to achieve their potential. Symptoms include stress, anxiety, depression, trauma & dissociation, learning and behavioral difficulty, developmental issues, relationship conflicts, social anxiety, loss/grief, life transitions, parenting stress, health/medical concerns, healthy life style, physical pain, chronic illness, peer issues, Aspergers & PDD, adoption and bariatric surgery consultation. Approaches include cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, interpersonal, supportive, and mind/body techniques (e.g., mindfulness meditation, relaxation, visualization and Qi Gong). I am trained in EFT. I am interested in the role of spirituality and religion on well-being.
Mindfulness meditation, as well as other mind/body techniques, is a powerful tool to alleviate stress, anxiety and pain, gain awareness, and tap into a reservoir of creativity, calm, wisdom and joy.
In a warm, compassionate & friendly manner, I hope to guide my clients to identify and alleviate life challenges and empower them to achieve their potential. Symptoms include stress, anxiety, depression, trauma & dissociation, learning and behavioral difficulty, developmental issues, relationship conflicts, social anxiety, loss/grief, life transitions, parenting stress, health/medical concerns, healthy life style, physical pain, chronic illness, peer issues, Aspergers & PDD, adoption and bariatric surgery consultation. Approaches include cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, interpersonal, supportive, and mind/body techniques (e.g., mindfulness meditation, relaxation, visualization and Qi Gong). I am trained in EFT. I am interested in the role of spirituality and religion on well-being.
(781) 325-9036 View (781) 325-9036
Photo of Rachel Daws, LICSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Daws
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Westwood, MA 02090
Hi, I’m Rachel, a licensed clinical social worker passionate about integrative behavioral health and holistic wellness. I’m dedicated to helping adults in their 20s to 50s who are navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or PTSD, as well as health concerns like diabetes, chronic pain, sleep apnea and more. My goal is to support you in enhancing your quality of life through personalized, compassionate care. Together, we’ll work to break down the barriers preventing you from achieving optimal health and reclaiming your life! Let’s embark on this journey towards wellness and achieve your goals together.
Hi, I’m Rachel, a licensed clinical social worker passionate about integrative behavioral health and holistic wellness. I’m dedicated to helping adults in their 20s to 50s who are navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or PTSD, as well as health concerns like diabetes, chronic pain, sleep apnea and more. My goal is to support you in enhancing your quality of life through personalized, compassionate care. Together, we’ll work to break down the barriers preventing you from achieving optimal health and reclaiming your life! Let’s embark on this journey towards wellness and achieve your goals together.
(617) 766-1702 View (617) 766-1702
Photo of Batya Drapkin Greene, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Batya Drapkin Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Sharon, MA 02067
My practice includes areas of anxiety, depression, life transitions, divorce, pregnancy loss, grief and bereavement, pet loss, and physical illness.
In my gentle and collaborative style of practice, I support the well being of my clients as they navigate life’s transitions and challenges. With over a decade of clinical work in hospice and outpatient mental health settings, I understand that change and transitions are unavoidable and often uncomfortable features of life. I approach our process from a strengths perspective which will identify your unique abilities, wisdom, and inner resources. We will focus on discovering and practicing skills which will become your tool kit for living your best life.
My practice includes areas of anxiety, depression, life transitions, divorce, pregnancy loss, grief and bereavement, pet loss, and physical illness.
In my gentle and collaborative style of practice, I support the well being of my clients as they navigate life’s transitions and challenges. With over a decade of clinical work in hospice and outpatient mental health settings, I understand that change and transitions are unavoidable and often uncomfortable features of life. I approach our process from a strengths perspective which will identify your unique abilities, wisdom, and inner resources. We will focus on discovering and practicing skills which will become your tool kit for living your best life.
(339) 209-2310 View (339) 209-2310
Photo of Carmel T Drewes, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carmel T Drewes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Sharon, MA 02067
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR, which can be used as an intervention for trauma healing, chronic pain, addiction recovery, and other issues.
I work with many types of clients, addressing various life issues, but my specialization is working with people who have experienced physical or emotional interpersonal abuse. This includes people targeted on the basis of gender, sexuality, or gender expression; race, ethnicity, or heritage; religious or faith beliefs/practices; or other aspects of identity. Most clients I work with have post-trauma, anxiety, and/or depression symptoms. I believe in the importance of helping clients explore the root causes of their symptoms, while also finding interventions to address those symptoms.
I am trained in EMDR, which can be used as an intervention for trauma healing, chronic pain, addiction recovery, and other issues.
I work with many types of clients, addressing various life issues, but my specialization is working with people who have experienced physical or emotional interpersonal abuse. This includes people targeted on the basis of gender, sexuality, or gender expression; race, ethnicity, or heritage; religious or faith beliefs/practices; or other aspects of identity. Most clients I work with have post-trauma, anxiety, and/or depression symptoms. I believe in the importance of helping clients explore the root causes of their symptoms, while also finding interventions to address those symptoms.
(339) 230-2227 View (339) 230-2227
Photo of Anna Zweede, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Zweede
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Foxborough, MA 02035  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping clients who have been experiencing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, significant grief and loss, ADHD, chronic health conditions/ chronic pain, substance abuse disorders, low self esteem and stress management issues.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker as well as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with 16 years of clinical practice. I am currently taking new clients. I have experience helping clients who have endured significant trauma. Prior to becoming an online mental health therapist for Ray of Light Wellness LLC, I was a director of a domestic violence and sexual assault program. I also have experience working as a group leader for an intensive outpatient program providing services for individuals with addictions. I work with clients who have a variety of different needs.
I am passionate about helping clients who have been experiencing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, significant grief and loss, ADHD, chronic health conditions/ chronic pain, substance abuse disorders, low self esteem and stress management issues.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker as well as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with 16 years of clinical practice. I am currently taking new clients. I have experience helping clients who have endured significant trauma. Prior to becoming an online mental health therapist for Ray of Light Wellness LLC, I was a director of a domestic violence and sexual assault program. I also have experience working as a group leader for an intensive outpatient program providing services for individuals with addictions. I work with clients who have a variety of different needs.
(508) 501-9513 View (508) 501-9513
Photo of Lynn Chapman, LMHC, BC-DMT, Counselor
Lynn Chapman
Counselor, LMHC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canton, MA 02021
When we experience trauma, lose a loved one, have chronic pain or illness, or navigate difficult relationships, grief is present. If you are facing these or other challenges— such as depression, anxiety, infertility, or major life transitions – it can be helpful to have support. I partner with people to process grief, find healing, and move towards increased connection with self and others. My somatic therapy lens can support you in better understanding your body’s response to experiences, bolster self-compassion, and effectively navigate your life with more ease.
When we experience trauma, lose a loved one, have chronic pain or illness, or navigate difficult relationships, grief is present. If you are facing these or other challenges— such as depression, anxiety, infertility, or major life transitions – it can be helpful to have support. I partner with people to process grief, find healing, and move towards increased connection with self and others. My somatic therapy lens can support you in better understanding your body’s response to experiences, bolster self-compassion, and effectively navigate your life with more ease.
(339) 675-2020 View (339) 675-2020

See more therapy options for Norfolk

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.