Chronic Pain Therapists in New Hudson, MI

Photo of Amanda Henderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Hudson, MI 48165
Amanda has a decade's worth of experience working with individuals with co-occurring physical and emotional pain, anxiety, individuals with neurodevelopmental diagnoses (i.
Amanda Henderson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2014. Amanda graduated from Adrian College with a Bachelor’s degree in History and Criminal Justice with a focus on rehabilitation. Her Master of Social Work degree is from Michigan State University; her focus was school social work and trauma (in progress). Amanda focuses on holistic health and the mind, body, spirit connection. She aims to create a relationship of trust without judgment. Her practice is person-centered, focusing on the overall well-being of the individual.
Amanda has a decade's worth of experience working with individuals with co-occurring physical and emotional pain, anxiety, individuals with neurodevelopmental diagnoses (i.
Amanda Henderson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2014. Amanda graduated from Adrian College with a Bachelor’s degree in History and Criminal Justice with a focus on rehabilitation. Her Master of Social Work degree is from Michigan State University; her focus was school social work and trauma (in progress). Amanda focuses on holistic health and the mind, body, spirit connection. She aims to create a relationship of trust without judgment. Her practice is person-centered, focusing on the overall well-being of the individual.
(810) 644-1837 View (810) 644-1837
Photo of Huri Kushner, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Huri Kushner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New Hudson, MI 48165
Huri Kushner is a clinical social worker, who has been practicing since 1999. He graduated from the University of Denver with a Master's degree in Social Work. He uses a collaborative, person-centered, supportive style of therapy, which seeks to improve your overall emotional, mental, psychological, and behavioral functioning. You will tell your own story, identifying your hopes and dreams as we start our journey together to work toward your own healing.
Huri Kushner is a clinical social worker, who has been practicing since 1999. He graduated from the University of Denver with a Master's degree in Social Work. He uses a collaborative, person-centered, supportive style of therapy, which seeks to improve your overall emotional, mental, psychological, and behavioral functioning. You will tell your own story, identifying your hopes and dreams as we start our journey together to work toward your own healing.
(947) 300-4760 View (947) 300-4760
Photo of Molly Bato, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Bato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New Hudson, MI 48165
Molly Bato is a therapist and licensed master social worker who has been practicing since 2016. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a Master of Social Work Degree, concentrating in interpersonal practice and mental health. Molly believes in the resiliency of her clients, and in the mind and body's natural desire to heal and grow. Her goal is to provide therapy that is unique and tailored to your individual needs. She believes a trustworthy, judgment-free, and compassionate relationship between client and therapist is vital to helping you reach your goals.
Molly Bato is a therapist and licensed master social worker who has been practicing since 2016. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a Master of Social Work Degree, concentrating in interpersonal practice and mental health. Molly believes in the resiliency of her clients, and in the mind and body's natural desire to heal and grow. Her goal is to provide therapy that is unique and tailored to your individual needs. She believes a trustworthy, judgment-free, and compassionate relationship between client and therapist is vital to helping you reach your goals.
(947) 900-8071 View (947) 900-8071
Photo of Danica San Juan, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danica San Juan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New Hudson, MI 48165
Danica is a psychotherapist who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from the University of Michigan School of Social Work. Danica believes in the philosophy that life just sucks sometimes; sometimes a client wants a therapist to help it feel less sucky and other times, they need a therapist to just hold space for them. Her main areas of focus include anxiety (generalized anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, OCD), pregnancy (from infertility to postpartum to grieving due to miscarriage or abortion), and trauma (which not only includes PTSD, but also complex-PTSD/borderline personality disorder and identity-based trauma).
Danica is a psychotherapist who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from the University of Michigan School of Social Work. Danica believes in the philosophy that life just sucks sometimes; sometimes a client wants a therapist to help it feel less sucky and other times, they need a therapist to just hold space for them. Her main areas of focus include anxiety (generalized anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, OCD), pregnancy (from infertility to postpartum to grieving due to miscarriage or abortion), and trauma (which not only includes PTSD, but also complex-PTSD/borderline personality disorder and identity-based trauma).
(810) 255-4214 View (810) 255-4214
Photo of Marc Goldman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marc Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New Hudson, MI 48165
Marc Goldman is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania who has been practicing full-time since 2020. He has a Master of Social Work and a Master of Business Administration from University of Maryland and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Eastern Michigan University. Marc has an unusually wide range of tools to offer his clients based on what they need and are looking for. This is because he hasn’t always been a Psychotherapist, and he has been able to adapt some non-traditional tools he used during a successful 20+ year career in business.
Marc Goldman is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania who has been practicing full-time since 2020. He has a Master of Social Work and a Master of Business Administration from University of Maryland and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Eastern Michigan University. Marc has an unusually wide range of tools to offer his clients based on what they need and are looking for. This is because he hasn’t always been a Psychotherapist, and he has been able to adapt some non-traditional tools he used during a successful 20+ year career in business.
(810) 474-4335 View (810) 474-4335
Photo of Holly Morris, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly Morris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Hudson, MI 48165
Holly Morris is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan who has been practicing since 2012. She attended Adler University in Chicago. The school has a strong emphasis on social justice which is one of her personal values. Holly believes that people are capable of more than they can imagine. By aligning the brain and body, identifying dysfunctional thoughts and coping patterns, and re-wiring these areas, people are able utilize their efforts effectively and begin to see positive outcomes.
Holly Morris is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan who has been practicing since 2012. She attended Adler University in Chicago. The school has a strong emphasis on social justice which is one of her personal values. Holly believes that people are capable of more than they can imagine. By aligning the brain and body, identifying dysfunctional thoughts and coping patterns, and re-wiring these areas, people are able utilize their efforts effectively and begin to see positive outcomes.
(810) 433-4899 View (810) 433-4899
Photo of Brittney Briggs, PsyD, Psychologist
Brittney Briggs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New Hudson, MI 48165
Brittney Briggs is a fully licensed clinical psychologist practicing since 2017. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Colgate University and her Doctor of Psychology degree (PsyD) from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She completed her internship at Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago, IL where she worked with veterans, active-duty service members, and their spouses. She completed her post-doctoral training at Truman VA in Columbia, MO, where she specialized in the assessment and treatment of veterans with co-morbid TBI and PTSD.
Brittney Briggs is a fully licensed clinical psychologist practicing since 2017. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Colgate University and her Doctor of Psychology degree (PsyD) from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She completed her internship at Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago, IL where she worked with veterans, active-duty service members, and their spouses. She completed her post-doctoral training at Truman VA in Columbia, MO, where she specialized in the assessment and treatment of veterans with co-morbid TBI and PTSD.
(810) 370-8804 View (810) 370-8804

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Keith Christie - Journey Together, PC, PsyD, Psychologist
Journey Together, PC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Novi, MI 48374
We offer various psychological evaluations for diagnosis, pain management, and bariatric surgery.
Therapy is an opportunity for you to learn about yourself and make the changes you want or need to make emotionally, cognitively, relationally or behaviorally. It is an art that must be tailored to each person. Our job as your therapist is to create an environment to help you grow and actively seize opportunities to make different choices and write your own story. We use person-centered approach which includes empathy, active listening, and honest feedback. We're careful not to make choices for you, but help you learn to make them for yourself.
We offer various psychological evaluations for diagnosis, pain management, and bariatric surgery.
Therapy is an opportunity for you to learn about yourself and make the changes you want or need to make emotionally, cognitively, relationally or behaviorally. It is an art that must be tailored to each person. Our job as your therapist is to create an environment to help you grow and actively seize opportunities to make different choices and write your own story. We use person-centered approach which includes empathy, active listening, and honest feedback. We're careful not to make choices for you, but help you learn to make them for yourself.
(734) 749-8718 View (734) 749-8718
Photo of Dr. Amber M Sepsey, PhD, LP, 200 RYT, Psychologist
Dr. Amber M Sepsey
Psychologist, PhD, LP, 200 RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Novi, MI 48375
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Sepsey is a licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Meraki Psychological Services. She serves children, teens, parents, and emerging adults in Michigan and California. Dr. Sepsey offers therapeutic intervention, neurodevelopmental evaluation, and school advocacy services. She has acquired advanced training at leading institutions including Stanford University and Children’s Hospital of Michigan, where she has gained clinical specialization in working with pediatric chronic pain and illness, as well as supporting individuals across the lifespan to navigate depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and autism.
Dr. Sepsey is a licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Meraki Psychological Services. She serves children, teens, parents, and emerging adults in Michigan and California. Dr. Sepsey offers therapeutic intervention, neurodevelopmental evaluation, and school advocacy services. She has acquired advanced training at leading institutions including Stanford University and Children’s Hospital of Michigan, where she has gained clinical specialization in working with pediatric chronic pain and illness, as well as supporting individuals across the lifespan to navigate depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and autism.
(248) 385-3330 View (248) 385-3330
Photo of Merry E. Porter, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Merry E. Porter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
I am a highly experienced therapist who comes from a holistic perspective, that is, all aspects of a person’s life are significant. It is my intention that people I work with experience a sense of being understood and cared for. I especially enjoy my work when clients find inner resources to understand and resolve their difficulties. Clients are greatly relieved, sometimes amazed, when for the first time, through the application of Mindfulness CBT, they are able to manage their busy, distracted minds, seemingly overwhelming emotions, or the constant distraction of chronic pain.
I am a highly experienced therapist who comes from a holistic perspective, that is, all aspects of a person’s life are significant. It is my intention that people I work with experience a sense of being understood and cared for. I especially enjoy my work when clients find inner resources to understand and resolve their difficulties. Clients are greatly relieved, sometimes amazed, when for the first time, through the application of Mindfulness CBT, they are able to manage their busy, distracted minds, seemingly overwhelming emotions, or the constant distraction of chronic pain.
(517) 219-1057 View (517) 219-1057
Robert E Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of persons ages 8-65+. I have been trained in various techniques, working with individuals, families and groups. I have worked with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, chronic pain, and end of life issues. I specialize in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy with individuals and group instruction in mindfulness training. I have been a practitioner of meditation for over 20 years, an instructor for eleven years.
I specialize in the treatment of persons ages 8-65+. I have been trained in various techniques, working with individuals, families and groups. I have worked with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, chronic pain, and end of life issues. I specialize in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy with individuals and group instruction in mindfulness training. I have been a practitioner of meditation for over 20 years, an instructor for eleven years.
(810) 777-6476 x4 View (810) 777-6476 x4
Photo of Dr. Jolin B. Yamin, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Jolin B. Yamin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Novi, MI 48375  (Online Only)
You can expect to talk about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and to learn new ways to manage your anxiety, stress, and pain.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist dedicated to working collaboratively with individuals to navigate life’s stressors and transitions, improve their mood and relationships, and find fulfillment in their life experiences. I have special expertise in treating anxiety, trauma- and stress-related symptoms, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, chronic pain, and mind-body disorders. I will work with you to understand your symptoms, develop coping skills, and create a plan for recovery.
You can expect to talk about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and to learn new ways to manage your anxiety, stress, and pain.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist dedicated to working collaboratively with individuals to navigate life’s stressors and transitions, improve their mood and relationships, and find fulfillment in their life experiences. I have special expertise in treating anxiety, trauma- and stress-related symptoms, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, chronic pain, and mind-body disorders. I will work with you to understand your symptoms, develop coping skills, and create a plan for recovery.
(734) 562-6930 View (734) 562-6930
Photo of Juvaria Javaid - Cognitive Care Center PC, MS, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Cognitive Care Center PC
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
Novi, MI 48375
We approach utilizing the Biopsychosocial Model, utilizing this approach helps explain how different types of processes influence a type of behavior or an illness.
Are you stressed ? looking for a relief ? We provide professional, confidential mental health services for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Our practice has psychiatrist, psychologist, therapists who specialize in various areas such as anxiety, depression, grief/loss, self-esteem, stress, bipolar, mood disorders, trauma, stress, school issues, substance abuse issues and behavioral issues. Our clinicians are trained to walk with you through the struggle to find a solution that would work best for you. We provide with psychiatric diagnosis and medication management for adults and 18 year and older.
We approach utilizing the Biopsychosocial Model, utilizing this approach helps explain how different types of processes influence a type of behavior or an illness.
Are you stressed ? looking for a relief ? We provide professional, confidential mental health services for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Our practice has psychiatrist, psychologist, therapists who specialize in various areas such as anxiety, depression, grief/loss, self-esteem, stress, bipolar, mood disorders, trauma, stress, school issues, substance abuse issues and behavioral issues. Our clinicians are trained to walk with you through the struggle to find a solution that would work best for you. We provide with psychiatric diagnosis and medication management for adults and 18 year and older.
(734) 868-5607 View (734) 868-5607
Photo of David T. Majchrzak, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
David T. Majchrzak
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Novi, MI 48375  (Online Only)
I provide individual, couples, and family psychotherapy using a Humanistic and Client-centered approach, with an emphasis on short-term, solution focused treatment. I have an extensive background in the holistic health field and in the field of psychology, and find that many issues including stress, depression, anxiety, focusing-issues, relationship problems, and chronic pain/ illness can be effectively worked through by creating a strong rapport and finding balance and harmony within oneself and one's environment.
I provide individual, couples, and family psychotherapy using a Humanistic and Client-centered approach, with an emphasis on short-term, solution focused treatment. I have an extensive background in the holistic health field and in the field of psychology, and find that many issues including stress, depression, anxiety, focusing-issues, relationship problems, and chronic pain/ illness can be effectively worked through by creating a strong rapport and finding balance and harmony within oneself and one's environment.
(734) 447-5082 View (734) 447-5082
Photo of Rachel Harkness, MA, LLC, ATR-P, Counselor
Rachel Harkness
Counselor, MA, LLC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novi, MI 48375
I work with folks managing life milestone concerns, anxiety, depression & feeling stuck, relationship & familial distress, trauma, self-esteem challenges, peer & academic related stress, identity concerns, religious abuse, grief & loss, ADHD, disordered eating, cancer & chronic illness, and career/occupational stress.
As a counselor and art therapist, my approach comes with an understanding that people are multifaceted. When challenges arise, there is no cookie-cutter fix for the situation you may be facing as you are unique, and your therapy should be tailored to your needs. Talking about difficult matters can be hard, but it can be a little easier when you know you have someone you can trust to discuss them with. I come to sessions with the goal of being supportive, resourceful, authentic, and empathetic since building rapport is crucial to the therapeutic alliance.
I work with folks managing life milestone concerns, anxiety, depression & feeling stuck, relationship & familial distress, trauma, self-esteem challenges, peer & academic related stress, identity concerns, religious abuse, grief & loss, ADHD, disordered eating, cancer & chronic illness, and career/occupational stress.
As a counselor and art therapist, my approach comes with an understanding that people are multifaceted. When challenges arise, there is no cookie-cutter fix for the situation you may be facing as you are unique, and your therapy should be tailored to your needs. Talking about difficult matters can be hard, but it can be a little easier when you know you have someone you can trust to discuss them with. I come to sessions with the goal of being supportive, resourceful, authentic, and empathetic since building rapport is crucial to the therapeutic alliance.
(734) 821-5478 View (734) 821-5478
Photo of Alicia Chiasson, MSW, LMSW, MPA, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Chiasson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, MPA, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northville, MI 48167  (Online Only)
In a warm and relational environment, I apply a holistic approach to my specialty area of spiritual/religious abuse, as well as with those experiencing general anxiety, depression, other trauma, identity crisis, relational issues, chronic physical pain, and adjustment/transitional challenges while using a variety of techniques tailored to my client’s needs.
Have you experienced religious trauma/spiritual abuse or other trauma from which you can't seem to bounce back? Do you ever think that your mind, emotions, and/or body are your enemy? Do you want to feel more grounded, connected to your true Self, and fulfilled in life? If so, I would love the chance to meet with you. I've spent years healing from religious trauma and learning to release the associated feelings of shame and anxiety in order to find the authentic "home" within me and I care deeply about helping others do the same, no matter their particular life experience.
In a warm and relational environment, I apply a holistic approach to my specialty area of spiritual/religious abuse, as well as with those experiencing general anxiety, depression, other trauma, identity crisis, relational issues, chronic physical pain, and adjustment/transitional challenges while using a variety of techniques tailored to my client’s needs.
Have you experienced religious trauma/spiritual abuse or other trauma from which you can't seem to bounce back? Do you ever think that your mind, emotions, and/or body are your enemy? Do you want to feel more grounded, connected to your true Self, and fulfilled in life? If so, I would love the chance to meet with you. I've spent years healing from religious trauma and learning to release the associated feelings of shame and anxiety in order to find the authentic "home" within me and I care deeply about helping others do the same, no matter their particular life experience.
(313) 673-4800 View (313) 673-4800
Photo of Kristina M. Princinsky, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristina M. Princinsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
I'm devoted to healing past and present pain, conquering unwanted symptoms and increasing peace & purpose.
"When will I feel like myself again?" "Will this pain ever end?" "You don't look sick!" Sound familiar? Illness and setbacks can happen to anyone and are often invisible to others. If you’re struggling to stay active, remain connected and feel torn between sharing "too little" and "feeling like a burden," you’re not alone. I tailor treatment plans for your most urgent needs. My aim is to restore energy, strengthen relationships & improve quality of life. Together we'll examine how the way you think, feel and act influences your ability to handle stress, cope with loss, manage pain and overcome hardships. Your comeback starts today!
I'm devoted to healing past and present pain, conquering unwanted symptoms and increasing peace & purpose.
"When will I feel like myself again?" "Will this pain ever end?" "You don't look sick!" Sound familiar? Illness and setbacks can happen to anyone and are often invisible to others. If you’re struggling to stay active, remain connected and feel torn between sharing "too little" and "feeling like a burden," you’re not alone. I tailor treatment plans for your most urgent needs. My aim is to restore energy, strengthen relationships & improve quality of life. Together we'll examine how the way you think, feel and act influences your ability to handle stress, cope with loss, manage pain and overcome hardships. Your comeback starts today!
(947) 800-5584 View (947) 800-5584
Rhonda B. Levy-Larson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Novi, MI 48374
I specialize in independent and clinical neuropsychological evaluations with adults 18 years and older who have a traumatic brain injury from events such as car accidents, work accidents, slip and falls, and strokes; or who have cognitive impairments from dementia. I also perform psychological evaluations of emotions and personality issues, and treatment, with adults 18 years and older, for traumatic events as well as for anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, and physical disabilities and conditions such as chronic pain. I can perform psychological evaluations and psychotherapy via telehealth videoconferencing.
I specialize in independent and clinical neuropsychological evaluations with adults 18 years and older who have a traumatic brain injury from events such as car accidents, work accidents, slip and falls, and strokes; or who have cognitive impairments from dementia. I also perform psychological evaluations of emotions and personality issues, and treatment, with adults 18 years and older, for traumatic events as well as for anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, and physical disabilities and conditions such as chronic pain. I can perform psychological evaluations and psychotherapy via telehealth videoconferencing.
(248) 796-0651 View (248) 796-0651
Photo of Stephanie Lake, LMSW, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Lake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
Novi, MI 48375
I have a passion for managing chronic illness/trauma and the connection to mind/body.
Are you experiencing emotions that are difficult to manage on your own? I specialize in helping you learn to overcome overwhelming emotions, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, depression, self-esteem, life-transitions, and relationship difficulties/family issues. I integrate evidence-based practices to guide you through roadblocks that are keeping you stuck. My therapeutic approaches are CBT, strengths-based, and integrative; meeting you where you are at, and assisting you with where you want to be.
I have a passion for managing chronic illness/trauma and the connection to mind/body.
Are you experiencing emotions that are difficult to manage on your own? I specialize in helping you learn to overcome overwhelming emotions, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, depression, self-esteem, life-transitions, and relationship difficulties/family issues. I integrate evidence-based practices to guide you through roadblocks that are keeping you stuck. My therapeutic approaches are CBT, strengths-based, and integrative; meeting you where you are at, and assisting you with where you want to be.
(313) 825-6593 View (313) 825-6593
Photo of Karen Sulkowski, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Karen Sulkowski
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hartland, MI 48353
Do you find yourself making the same mistakes over and over again and want to do something different, but are just not sure how? Have you been carrying around a deep pain in your life that you want to resolve? Often these things are connected. I can help you change the current unwanted behavior, while also helping you resolve issues from your past that may be effecting your reactions.
Do you find yourself making the same mistakes over and over again and want to do something different, but are just not sure how? Have you been carrying around a deep pain in your life that you want to resolve? Often these things are connected. I can help you change the current unwanted behavior, while also helping you resolve issues from your past that may be effecting your reactions.
(810) 420-1617 View (810) 420-1617

See more therapy options for New Hudson

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.