Chronic Pain Therapists in Bethesda, MD
![Photo of Laura Dover Wandner - Wandner Health and Wellness, LLC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db7e23be-dc26-450f-81db-25a37c4b9fc1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating patients with acute and chronic pain, EDS, headaches, and migraines.
I am a committed and compassionate clinical psychologist with advanced training and expertise in clinical health psychology. My interests are in helping patients to understand the mind-body connection, helping them to improve their quality of life despite experiencing chronic health conditions, and improving the way that they live despite stress and hardships. I specialize in health psychology, which focuses on promoting overall well-being as well as coping with acute and chronic illnesses.
I specialize in treating patients with acute and chronic pain, EDS, headaches, and migraines.
I am a committed and compassionate clinical psychologist with advanced training and expertise in clinical health psychology. My interests are in helping patients to understand the mind-body connection, helping them to improve their quality of life despite experiencing chronic health conditions, and improving the way that they live despite stress and hardships. I specialize in health psychology, which focuses on promoting overall well-being as well as coping with acute and chronic illnesses.
![Photo of Sarah S. Berger, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cfd556d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy is often about change - changing oneself or parts of one's life. Taking steps towards change requires tremendous courage, but many people find the rewards of this process well worth the effort. A supportive, helpful guide can go a long way towards making productive changes and that is where I come in. Support is my primary role; my secondary role is to help individuals identify thoughts or behaviors that are limiting progress in one's life. In addition to helping with a wide range of common symptoms like stress, anxiety, depression, I specialize in health psychology (coping with illness).
Therapy is often about change - changing oneself or parts of one's life. Taking steps towards change requires tremendous courage, but many people find the rewards of this process well worth the effort. A supportive, helpful guide can go a long way towards making productive changes and that is where I come in. Support is my primary role; my secondary role is to help individuals identify thoughts or behaviors that are limiting progress in one's life. In addition to helping with a wide range of common symptoms like stress, anxiety, depression, I specialize in health psychology (coping with illness).
![Photo of Anna White, LCMFT, CFTP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c361991-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Anna White
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, CFTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814 (Online Only)
In my extensive experience working with kids, families, and adults coping with trauma, conflict, chronic stress, life changes, chronic pain and illness, and intense emotions, I learned that each person is doing their best to adapt to situations that can feel impossible.
Among families, kids, adults, and couples alike, feeling healthy, happy, connected, and confident can be hard. For so many people and families today, the pressures of the world, fast changes in life, and challenging or traumatic experiences interrupt the connections we wish to have. Maybe for you or your family, this means more and more conflicts, feeling alone and unsupported, being unsure how to make things better, or not knowing what you want or need. Whether you feel lost and disconnected, frustrated, overwhelmed, angry, scared, or lonely, there are ways to restore your feelings of connection, purpose, confidence, and direction.
In my extensive experience working with kids, families, and adults coping with trauma, conflict, chronic stress, life changes, chronic pain and illness, and intense emotions, I learned that each person is doing their best to adapt to situations that can feel impossible.
Among families, kids, adults, and couples alike, feeling healthy, happy, connected, and confident can be hard. For so many people and families today, the pressures of the world, fast changes in life, and challenging or traumatic experiences interrupt the connections we wish to have. Maybe for you or your family, this means more and more conflicts, feeling alone and unsupported, being unsure how to make things better, or not knowing what you want or need. Whether you feel lost and disconnected, frustrated, overwhelmed, angry, scared, or lonely, there are ways to restore your feelings of connection, purpose, confidence, and direction.
![Photo of Diane Gilman, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54446381-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you experiencing chronic illness or pain? Do you feel stress, anxiety, and depression emotionally AND physically? My practice focuses on treating both the mind and the body using a caring, holistic approach. I am a certified Integrative Medicine Mental Health Provider, and have 15 years of experience working with adults, teens, children, couples, and families experiencing illness/pain, anxiety, phobias, OCD, depression, eating disorders, difficulty with life transitions and relationships, weight loss, and smoking struggles. I empower my clients in a safe environment by teaching them real-life techniques to ensure fast results.
Are you experiencing chronic illness or pain? Do you feel stress, anxiety, and depression emotionally AND physically? My practice focuses on treating both the mind and the body using a caring, holistic approach. I am a certified Integrative Medicine Mental Health Provider, and have 15 years of experience working with adults, teens, children, couples, and families experiencing illness/pain, anxiety, phobias, OCD, depression, eating disorders, difficulty with life transitions and relationships, weight loss, and smoking struggles. I empower my clients in a safe environment by teaching them real-life techniques to ensure fast results.
![Photo of Cindy Bull Crane, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e124797-67f5-40ec-9a63-bdb889ccbc39/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cindy Bull Crane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817
If you are sitting on my couch, SOME kind of trauma or pain has touched you. Regardless of sexual identity, a teen, adult or older adult, first responder, couple in crisis, or struggling with illness or grief, I will help you learn to better process and manage your emotions, including anxiety, sadness or anger to develop better coping strategies. My therapy is non-judgmental and client-focused where therapeutic goals are driven by the client's needs.
If you are sitting on my couch, SOME kind of trauma or pain has touched you. Regardless of sexual identity, a teen, adult or older adult, first responder, couple in crisis, or struggling with illness or grief, I will help you learn to better process and manage your emotions, including anxiety, sadness or anger to develop better coping strategies. My therapy is non-judgmental and client-focused where therapeutic goals are driven by the client's needs.
![Photo of Rachel Noble, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/426dc9bb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My writing and presentations on topics such as resilience, anxiety management, chronic pain, and intimacy appear in outlets such as The Washington Post, AARP, and Inova Health Systems.
Please find more info at my website: noblepractice.com. I have unique experience working with people who struggle with complex medical concerns, chronic pain, and postpartum depression. About half of my clients fall into this category and the other half are struggling with anxiety, depression, or just feeling stuck in life.
My writing and presentations on topics such as resilience, anxiety management, chronic pain, and intimacy appear in outlets such as The Washington Post, AARP, and Inova Health Systems.
Please find more info at my website: noblepractice.com. I have unique experience working with people who struggle with complex medical concerns, chronic pain, and postpartum depression. About half of my clients fall into this category and the other half are struggling with anxiety, depression, or just feeling stuck in life.
![Photo of Tift Pelias, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dadc558-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Has the pandemic changed your world? Feeling stuck? Experiencing a lack of motivation? Are you struggling with pain from a chronic health issue or pain from daily life frustration? Are you always anxious, angry or depressed? Feel distant from your true self? Therapy can help you to break through the pain to be where you want to be. Warm, supportive, non-judgmental therapeutic exploration can help you to reconnect with or discover the person outside the pain, who is not just a medical diagnosis, an adult child of an alcoholic, your profession, an angry/depressed/anxious person but the real you and your full potential.
Has the pandemic changed your world? Feeling stuck? Experiencing a lack of motivation? Are you struggling with pain from a chronic health issue or pain from daily life frustration? Are you always anxious, angry or depressed? Feel distant from your true self? Therapy can help you to break through the pain to be where you want to be. Warm, supportive, non-judgmental therapeutic exploration can help you to reconnect with or discover the person outside the pain, who is not just a medical diagnosis, an adult child of an alcoholic, your profession, an angry/depressed/anxious person but the real you and your full potential.
![Photo of Mary Anne Tamula, MA, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb18c665-bcc8-4ee6-b620-c57f2abe2517/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Anne Tamula
Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814 (Online Only)
Life is tough. Life throws you a curveball; an unexpected medical diagnosis, chronic pain, a loved one dying, another failed relationship, and the list is endless. But the world around you keeps going, it feels that there is no option to pause. We live in a busy world, with all its difficult circumstances. A sense of hopelessness, helplessness ensues. Yet, a part of you knows it can be different. You wouldn't be reading this if you weren't looking for a way to make it better. Somehow. If you need just a gentle push, an ounce of encouragement, or a ton of compassion, I am here for you. We will work together
Life is tough. Life throws you a curveball; an unexpected medical diagnosis, chronic pain, a loved one dying, another failed relationship, and the list is endless. But the world around you keeps going, it feels that there is no option to pause. We live in a busy world, with all its difficult circumstances. A sense of hopelessness, helplessness ensues. Yet, a part of you knows it can be different. You wouldn't be reading this if you weren't looking for a way to make it better. Somehow. If you need just a gentle push, an ounce of encouragement, or a ton of compassion, I am here for you. We will work together
![Photo of Sammi Rosenfeld, NCC, DC LPC, MD LCPC, MSEd, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acc8ceba-9d81-4bcf-abcd-7bd2bcbe80ad/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sammi Rosenfeld
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, DC LPC, MD LCPC, MSEd, CCTP
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20815
Waitlist for new clients
Some of my specialities include anxiety and depression, chronic pain, ASD, ADHD, self-esteem, eating disorders, issues of identity and more.
I am a mental health and school counselor passionate about supporting the growth of children and young adults. I am experienced with both school-age children, young adults, and adults. I have also spent a lifetime in the world of professional dance and the creative arts. My experience in dance and the body highly influences my therapeutic lens. I view integration of body and mind through multi-sensory modalities as integral to client growth. I take an integrative approach to my work; in one session we may talk, play, draw, explore the sand tray, or move. Some moments may be more directive and some may be client-led.
Some of my specialities include anxiety and depression, chronic pain, ASD, ADHD, self-esteem, eating disorders, issues of identity and more.
I am a mental health and school counselor passionate about supporting the growth of children and young adults. I am experienced with both school-age children, young adults, and adults. I have also spent a lifetime in the world of professional dance and the creative arts. My experience in dance and the body highly influences my therapeutic lens. I view integration of body and mind through multi-sensory modalities as integral to client growth. I take an integrative approach to my work; in one session we may talk, play, draw, explore the sand tray, or move. Some moments may be more directive and some may be client-led.
![Photo of Natalie Chaykin Pierce, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb31ebf5-fd74-4ccb-88d9-8e8610ac15b9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Natalie Pierce specializes in the treatment of chronic pain/illnesses, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, body image concerns, life transitions, and depression. Dr. Pierce is board-certified in biofeedback and practices therapy primarily from CBT/ACT and positive psychology perspectives through a health psychology lens to help patients manage stress, transition after an injury or disease, and cope with pain, loss, feeling “stuck,” anxiety, and depression.
Dr. Natalie Pierce specializes in the treatment of chronic pain/illnesses, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, body image concerns, life transitions, and depression. Dr. Pierce is board-certified in biofeedback and practices therapy primarily from CBT/ACT and positive psychology perspectives through a health psychology lens to help patients manage stress, transition after an injury or disease, and cope with pain, loss, feeling “stuck,” anxiety, and depression.
![Photo of Annie Miller, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93562611-6a79-4447-ac62-c202d32d8e90/2/320x400.jpeg)
Annie Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
In my practice, I help teens and adults work through problems with insomnia, anxiety, trauma, and chronic pain.
Are you lying in bed at night with racing thoughts? Do you have trouble letting go of stress from your day? Are you having trouble falling asleep or do you wake up multiple times overnight? Are you replaying old memories from the past? Or maybe you have had chronic pain for years and you can't find relief. If you are struggling with insomnia, anxiety, trauma, or chronic pain, I am glad you're here. Dealing with these problems can be challenging but you can heal if you have the right tools. I use clinically proven techniques like EMDR, CBT for insomnia, Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), and other brain-based strategies.
In my practice, I help teens and adults work through problems with insomnia, anxiety, trauma, and chronic pain.
Are you lying in bed at night with racing thoughts? Do you have trouble letting go of stress from your day? Are you having trouble falling asleep or do you wake up multiple times overnight? Are you replaying old memories from the past? Or maybe you have had chronic pain for years and you can't find relief. If you are struggling with insomnia, anxiety, trauma, or chronic pain, I am glad you're here. Dealing with these problems can be challenging but you can heal if you have the right tools. I use clinically proven techniques like EMDR, CBT for insomnia, Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), and other brain-based strategies.
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![Photo of Martin Vendemia, BCH, MNLP, LPI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee9497d5-10b8-4acd-ba35-2e2cbedfd55a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ideal clients have tried other treatments and the issue persists. My/our clients may come with anxiety, PTSD, trauma, weight, smoking, sleeping, pain, restless leg and other severe or chronic issues. I have worked with veteran issues, ms, lupus, damaged spine, fibromyalgia, fears, sleep/insomnia, medical compliance, motivation. I have multiple certifications, research and science background and apply the latest methods that produce lasting results
Ideal clients have tried other treatments and the issue persists. My/our clients may come with anxiety, PTSD, trauma, weight, smoking, sleeping, pain, restless leg and other severe or chronic issues. I have worked with veteran issues, ms, lupus, damaged spine, fibromyalgia, fears, sleep/insomnia, medical compliance, motivation. I have multiple certifications, research and science background and apply the latest methods that produce lasting results
![Photo of Dr. Amanda Rhodes, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d33c0ca-2a0f-45b9-ae34-c18fc0da575b/5/320x400.jpeg)
2 Available Patient Slots Starting September 1st - - - - I’m an NIH-trained Clinical Health Psychologist and specialize in teens and adults experiencing chronic and acute illness/pain as well as caregivers of loved ones with medical conditions. I am the Supervising Psychologist and Director at the National Center for Health Psychology. In therapy, my approach is collaborative and experiential, aiming to help individuals break free from the grip of pain, empowering them to embrace meaning and vitality in their lives.
2 Available Patient Slots Starting September 1st - - - - I’m an NIH-trained Clinical Health Psychologist and specialize in teens and adults experiencing chronic and acute illness/pain as well as caregivers of loved ones with medical conditions. I am the Supervising Psychologist and Director at the National Center for Health Psychology. In therapy, my approach is collaborative and experiential, aiming to help individuals break free from the grip of pain, empowering them to embrace meaning and vitality in their lives.
![Photo of Carissa L Strohecker Hannum, MA, LCPC, LPC, CCTP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/535ea4cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carissa L Strohecker Hannum
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20810
I have a special interest working with individuals with chronic pain, life transitions, and grief/loss.
Welcome, I truly believe that therapy is a brave and courageous choice. I strive to create a warm, empathetic, and safe environment for each client that chooses to work with me. I have a special expertise working with both adolescents and adults with mood disorders. Our relationship will be used as an element of change. Often, I will utilize aspects of our relationship to highlight barriers to change and provide a warm and directive approach to push you towards growth. My approach within our therapeutic relationship tends to be more collaborative and I commonly use interventions including mindfulness, CBT, DBT and attachment theory.
I have a special interest working with individuals with chronic pain, life transitions, and grief/loss.
Welcome, I truly believe that therapy is a brave and courageous choice. I strive to create a warm, empathetic, and safe environment for each client that chooses to work with me. I have a special expertise working with both adolescents and adults with mood disorders. Our relationship will be used as an element of change. Often, I will utilize aspects of our relationship to highlight barriers to change and provide a warm and directive approach to push you towards growth. My approach within our therapeutic relationship tends to be more collaborative and I commonly use interventions including mindfulness, CBT, DBT and attachment theory.
![Photo of Neal R Morris, EdD, MS, CBSM, ABPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52dacf04-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a practical professional who is committed to those I work with. The goal is to identify actions that improve your life and translate these actions into concrete steps to promote emotional stability and effectiveness in dealing with long-standing and daily challenges. I work with adults and children helping them deal with specific problems as well as supporting their development of long-term, positive life-goals. I am board-certified in Clinical Psychology and Sleep Psychology treating adults, children, families and couples with emotional, behavioral and physical-health concerns. I specialize in treating anxiety, panic and problems such as chronic pain and insomnia.
I am a practical professional who is committed to those I work with. The goal is to identify actions that improve your life and translate these actions into concrete steps to promote emotional stability and effectiveness in dealing with long-standing and daily challenges. I work with adults and children helping them deal with specific problems as well as supporting their development of long-term, positive life-goals. I am board-certified in Clinical Psychology and Sleep Psychology treating adults, children, families and couples with emotional, behavioral and physical-health concerns. I specialize in treating anxiety, panic and problems such as chronic pain and insomnia.
![Photo of Pat Webbink - Pat Webbink, PhD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48c3bf94-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have produced 15 Creative Visualization recordings on Mindfulness, Dream & Sleep, Enhancing Relationships, Healing Pain & Illness, Centering & Weight Loss.
With 50 years of clinical experience, a Duke U. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, I am an empathic, results-oriented psychologist. My specialties: relationships, anxiety, depression, stress reduction, intimacy, trauma & abuse. I work with adults, adolescents, & children in individual, couple, family & group therapy. I counsel in Spanish, French & Japanese. I've authored 4 books on intimacy & relationships & hold FREE monthly Zoom workshops on Mindfulness, Creative Movement & Relationships using guided imagery & music. My licensed associates and I serve MD, D.C. & VA. My interactive audio flyer is available at AacCounseling.com. Call me.
I have produced 15 Creative Visualization recordings on Mindfulness, Dream & Sleep, Enhancing Relationships, Healing Pain & Illness, Centering & Weight Loss.
With 50 years of clinical experience, a Duke U. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, I am an empathic, results-oriented psychologist. My specialties: relationships, anxiety, depression, stress reduction, intimacy, trauma & abuse. I work with adults, adolescents, & children in individual, couple, family & group therapy. I counsel in Spanish, French & Japanese. I've authored 4 books on intimacy & relationships & hold FREE monthly Zoom workshops on Mindfulness, Creative Movement & Relationships using guided imagery & music. My licensed associates and I serve MD, D.C. & VA. My interactive audio flyer is available at AacCounseling.com. Call me.
![Photo of Noa Ashman, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce09613-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals and couples and have experience with many presenting issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief & loss, career development & life transitions, trauma & PTSD, addictions, chronic pain, and low self esteem.
In my practice, I believe it is the relationship you share with a therapist that drives growth, change and relief from the symptoms that lead you to seek out therapy. Above all, for your therapy to be successful, you must feel safe, supported and understood. For many people, the hardest part of starting is making that first phone call to ask for help. From the beginning, I strive to meet you where you are and make a meaningful connection, so we can actively work together to help you feel better.
I work with individuals and couples and have experience with many presenting issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief & loss, career development & life transitions, trauma & PTSD, addictions, chronic pain, and low self esteem.
In my practice, I believe it is the relationship you share with a therapist that drives growth, change and relief from the symptoms that lead you to seek out therapy. Above all, for your therapy to be successful, you must feel safe, supported and understood. For many people, the hardest part of starting is making that first phone call to ask for help. From the beginning, I strive to meet you where you are and make a meaningful connection, so we can actively work together to help you feel better.
![Photo of Nancy Brutsché, MSN, RN, PMHCNS, BC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bee415d3-497f-406d-9ce1-926e38bdcaf8/1/320x400.jpeg)
MINDFULNESS-BASED SOMATIC PSYCHOTHERAPY & INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS: "What lies behind us and what lies ahead of us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." [Ralph Waldo Emerson]. All that you seek already lies within you. It is my great pleasure to assist you in opening up to your wholeness. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, chronic illness, pain, feeling stuck, existential/spiritual issues or simply seeking what you have been missing or what calls you, I am here to help you find the freedom, peace, love and joy you desire. I DO NOT PRESCRIBE NOR MANAGE MEDICATIONS.
MINDFULNESS-BASED SOMATIC PSYCHOTHERAPY & INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS: "What lies behind us and what lies ahead of us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." [Ralph Waldo Emerson]. All that you seek already lies within you. It is my great pleasure to assist you in opening up to your wholeness. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, chronic illness, pain, feeling stuck, existential/spiritual issues or simply seeking what you have been missing or what calls you, I am here to help you find the freedom, peace, love and joy you desire. I DO NOT PRESCRIBE NOR MANAGE MEDICATIONS.
![Photo of Samantha Steinfeld, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d080e534-5d35-407a-a97e-4cd636dfb6a9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I’m Samantha! I specialize in helping individuals and couples through various life challenges, including creating more fulfilling relationships, exploring identity, and managing chronic illness. My therapeutic approach is informed by my diverse background as a therapist, sex educator, and chronic illness advocate. I create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore and process their experiences, find validation, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and of their relationships. I am dedicated to providing a supportive environment where you can heal, grow, and live authentically.
Hi, I’m Samantha! I specialize in helping individuals and couples through various life challenges, including creating more fulfilling relationships, exploring identity, and managing chronic illness. My therapeutic approach is informed by my diverse background as a therapist, sex educator, and chronic illness advocate. I create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore and process their experiences, find validation, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and of their relationships. I am dedicated to providing a supportive environment where you can heal, grow, and live authentically.
![Photo of Nick Szubiak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fec5af9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nick Szubiak has worked in the behavioral health and wellness field for over 20 years and specializes in individual, couples and family therapy. His areas of expertise include life balance, stress management, mood and behavior challenges, chronic health conditions, chronic pain, addiction as well as optimizing performance and leadership.
Nick Szubiak has worked in the behavioral health and wellness field for over 20 years and specializes in individual, couples and family therapy. His areas of expertise include life balance, stress management, mood and behavior challenges, chronic health conditions, chronic pain, addiction as well as optimizing performance and leadership.
See more therapy options for Bethesda
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Bethesda
- Cabin John
- Chevy Chase
- College Park
- Hyattsville
- Kensington
- North Bethesda
- Olney
- Potomac
- Rockville
- Silver Spring
- Takoma Park
- Wheaton
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.