Chronic Pain Therapists in Walpole, MA

Photo of Sarah Roman, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Roman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walpole, MA 02081
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 Alicia Rodio, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Rodio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Walpole, MA 02081
Alicia always knew she wanted to be a therapist. She began her initial post undergraduate career of teaching middle and high school for almost nine years. During that time, Alicia learned that she enjoyed supporting the students, talking to them about their challenges, their strengths and other situations in which they needed assistance. Alicia returned to get her Master's in Social Work from Boston College where she graduated in 2011 with an MSW in Clinical Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health. Alicia has spent her career in this field with a passion for providing treatment for those dealing with addiction.
Alicia always knew she wanted to be a therapist. She began her initial post undergraduate career of teaching middle and high school for almost nine years. During that time, Alicia learned that she enjoyed supporting the students, talking to them about their challenges, their strengths and other situations in which they needed assistance. Alicia returned to get her Master's in Social Work from Boston College where she graduated in 2011 with an MSW in Clinical Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health. Alicia has spent her career in this field with a passion for providing treatment for those dealing with addiction.
(774) 228-5464 View (774) 228-5464
Photo of Jacleen Charbonneau, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jacleen Charbonneau
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walpole, MA 02081  (Online Only)
Working with older teens & young adults — including college students & young professionals— I help clients navigate concerns such as anxiety, depression, and life adjustments that are causing stress, low self esteem, relationship concerns, stress due to perfectionism, feeling on edge, panic attacks, social isolation, feelings of “imposter syndrome,” & more. Navigating the 20s is a difficult time for many, as this is a time of internal and external changes that occur simultaneously, whether this includes one’s exploration of both personal and professional identity, relationship satisfaction, accommodating to a new city, and more.
Working with older teens & young adults — including college students & young professionals— I help clients navigate concerns such as anxiety, depression, and life adjustments that are causing stress, low self esteem, relationship concerns, stress due to perfectionism, feeling on edge, panic attacks, social isolation, feelings of “imposter syndrome,” & more. Navigating the 20s is a difficult time for many, as this is a time of internal and external changes that occur simultaneously, whether this includes one’s exploration of both personal and professional identity, relationship satisfaction, accommodating to a new city, and more.
(508) 571-6869 View (508) 571-6869
Photo of Elizabeth Quigley - Elizabeth Quigley, LICSW, New Inspiration , LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Quigley, LICSW, New Inspiration
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Walpole, MA 02081
You want to feel better and do better in your life, and now, perhaps more than ever, you need someone – someone REALLY helpful – “in your corner” to help you turn things around. I’m willing and able to do just that. Together, we can do this: I use a range of solution-focused approaches: treatments that work (CBT, DBT, and whatever else works). We’ll figure out exactly how you’ve “gotten here,” plan a way out, and I’ll guide you along the way…as we activate your strengths and your inner resources to live a better life. I work with adults, teens, and families and I’m available immediately to give you the help you need and deserve.
You want to feel better and do better in your life, and now, perhaps more than ever, you need someone – someone REALLY helpful – “in your corner” to help you turn things around. I’m willing and able to do just that. Together, we can do this: I use a range of solution-focused approaches: treatments that work (CBT, DBT, and whatever else works). We’ll figure out exactly how you’ve “gotten here,” plan a way out, and I’ll guide you along the way…as we activate your strengths and your inner resources to live a better life. I work with adults, teens, and families and I’m available immediately to give you the help you need and deserve.
(339) 300-4495 View (339) 300-4495
Photo of Sean Kern, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sean Kern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walpole, MA 02081
Not accepting new clients
Simply trying to make a way through life can make us feel anxious or depressed, or turn to old habits which have not been helpful for us. Avoiding our reality, pretending it doesn't exist, or trying to change that part of reality which is outside of our control most often ends up adding more to the problem. While everyone finds a different way to manage this experience, there are some common threads which sew together resilient responses and those which reinforce unhelpful responses. A meaningful and purposeful understanding of both the problem and the solution patterns is vital to living an enjoyable life.
Simply trying to make a way through life can make us feel anxious or depressed, or turn to old habits which have not been helpful for us. Avoiding our reality, pretending it doesn't exist, or trying to change that part of reality which is outside of our control most often ends up adding more to the problem. While everyone finds a different way to manage this experience, there are some common threads which sew together resilient responses and those which reinforce unhelpful responses. A meaningful and purposeful understanding of both the problem and the solution patterns is vital to living an enjoyable life.
(508) 859-7332 View (508) 859-7332

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Matt Raspanti, LMHC, Counselor
Matt Raspanti
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Dedham, MA 02026  (Online Only)
I work with adults to address issues related to chronic pain, substance use, relationship difficulties, anxiety, and depression.
I am currently accepting new clients. Wherever you may be at in your journey, I look forward to joining you on your path towards greater mental and emotional well-being. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore your thoughts and feelings, and prioritize understanding things from your viewpoint. My main goal is to empower you as we collaborate to examine the impact of your experiences and stressors from new perspectives, to help you heal, and grow.
I work with adults to address issues related to chronic pain, substance use, relationship difficulties, anxiety, and depression.
I am currently accepting new clients. Wherever you may be at in your journey, I look forward to joining you on your path towards greater mental and emotional well-being. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore your thoughts and feelings, and prioritize understanding things from your viewpoint. My main goal is to empower you as we collaborate to examine the impact of your experiences and stressors from new perspectives, to help you heal, and grow.
(617) 765-1377 View (617) 765-1377
Photo of John C Smolenski Jr - Paragon Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, Counselor
Paragon Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Foxboro, MA 02035  (Online Only)
My specialties include helping clients presenting with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, physical disability, chronic health issues, chronic pain, and college-aged/ 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.
My specialties include helping clients presenting with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, physical disability, chronic health issues, chronic pain, and college-aged/ 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 Judith B Sonner - Newton Biofeedback, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Newton Biofeedback
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Needham, MA 02492
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 William Jackson Mindfulness Based Therapy, PsyD, Psychologist
William Jackson Mindfulness Based Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
North Easton, MA 02356
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 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 Aviva R Bock, MA, EdM, CCMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Aviva R Bock
Counselor, MA, EdM, CCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Needham, MA 02492
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 Kristena Flood, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristena Flood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canton, MA 02021
Connecting with the right therapist is one of the most important aspects of an effective therapeutic process. My approach to therapy is collaborative and influenced by the needs of each individual. I often meet clients when they feel stuck or overwhelmed. I have 20 years of experience helping people heal from the emotional wounds of trauma, loss, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, domestic violence, major mental illness, chronic or terminal illness, and chronic stress. I often work with those struggling to navigate the complexities of relationships, whether at work, interpersonally, or romantically.
Connecting with the right therapist is one of the most important aspects of an effective therapeutic process. My approach to therapy is collaborative and influenced by the needs of each individual. I often meet clients when they feel stuck or overwhelmed. I have 20 years of experience helping people heal from the emotional wounds of trauma, loss, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, domestic violence, major mental illness, chronic or terminal illness, and chronic stress. I often work with those struggling to navigate the complexities of relationships, whether at work, interpersonally, or romantically.
(339) 233-4610 View (339) 233-4610
Photo of Carmel T Drewes, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carmel T Drewes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Canton, MA 02021
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 many life issues, but my specialization is working with people who have been targets of physical or emotional harm due to who they are or who they are perceived to be. This includes people targeted on the basis of race, ethnicity, or heritage; gender, sexuality, or gender expression; 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 many life issues, but my specialization is working with people who have been targets of physical or emotional harm due to who they are or who they are perceived to be. This includes people targeted on the basis of race, ethnicity, or heritage; gender, sexuality, or gender expression; 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 Graham Garwood, PsyD, HSP, Psychologist
Graham Garwood
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP
Verified Verified
Needham, MA 02492
The therapy process facilitates a lessening of emotional pain and suffering while life begins to take on greater meaning.
I am a therapist who pays careful attention to you, who you are, who you want to be, and how you will get there. In therapy, I place primary importance on helping you have the sense that whatever you are going through is more manageable because we are both working on it together. I have been successful in working with many types of individuals, with a large variety of issues. Please explore further down the webpage for some of the most frequent issues and diagnoses I help people with. My office is a place where it is okay to feel any way you feel, think anything you think, and talk through it with another trusted person.
The therapy process facilitates a lessening of emotional pain and suffering while life begins to take on greater meaning.
I am a therapist who pays careful attention to you, who you are, who you want to be, and how you will get there. In therapy, I place primary importance on helping you have the sense that whatever you are going through is more manageable because we are both working on it together. I have been successful in working with many types of individuals, with a large variety of issues. Please explore further down the webpage for some of the most frequent issues and diagnoses I help people with. My office is a place where it is okay to feel any way you feel, think anything you think, and talk through it with another trusted person.
(617) 564-3404 View (617) 564-3404
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 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 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 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 Ingrid Raab - WellesleyPsych, PsyD, Psychologist
WellesleyPsych
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Needham, MA 02492  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Clinical Specialities Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Panic Disorder, Phobias, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, Mood Disorders, Chronic Pain/Behavioral Medicine.
Dr. Ingrid Raab is a licensed psychologist in Wellesley, MA, who treats panic disorders, phobias, mood disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, and insomnia with a particular focus on anxiety management. Her approach follows the cognitive-behavioral model, integrating cognitive restructuring with mindfulness based stress-reduction therapy, applied physiology/biofeedback and psycho-dynamic therapy.
Clinical Specialities Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Panic Disorder, Phobias, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, Mood Disorders, Chronic Pain/Behavioral Medicine.
Dr. Ingrid Raab is a licensed psychologist in Wellesley, MA, who treats panic disorders, phobias, mood disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, and insomnia with a particular focus on anxiety management. Her approach follows the cognitive-behavioral model, integrating cognitive restructuring with mindfulness based stress-reduction therapy, applied physiology/biofeedback and psycho-dynamic therapy.
(781) 780-2719 View (781) 780-2719
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
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.