Chronic Pain Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Tara Jubanowsky, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Jubanowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270  (Online Only)
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
(984) 265-8755 View (984) 265-8755
Photo of Erin K. Taylor, PhD, Psychologist
Erin K. Taylor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Waitlist for new clients
Sapphire Health Psychology is for people who are experiencing chronic pain (including medically unexplained pain), serious illness, or weight management challenges and have exhausted traditional avenues for healing with little or no success. We explore these challenges from an angle that challenges the status quo, see symptoms as signals for change, recognize patterns that are hindering healing, and believe that true healing is possible. I am authorized to provide telepsychology services via the Psychology Interstate Compact (PsyPact) to the states and territories identified in this map www.psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap.
Sapphire Health Psychology is for people who are experiencing chronic pain (including medically unexplained pain), serious illness, or weight management challenges and have exhausted traditional avenues for healing with little or no success. We explore these challenges from an angle that challenges the status quo, see symptoms as signals for change, recognize patterns that are hindering healing, and believe that true healing is possible. I am authorized to provide telepsychology services via the Psychology Interstate Compact (PsyPact) to the states and territories identified in this map www.psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap.
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Photo of Lucy Dunning, LPC, EdS, BC-TMC, NCC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lucy Dunning
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS, BC-TMC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
Connecting with the right therapist is critical when starting your therapeutic journey. I provide free consultations to potential clients, ensuring they feel confident when committing to their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with patients and families who experience Chronic Illness and Pain. As a chronic illness patient and therapist, I recognize the unique and personal journey clients experience. I understand the obstacles, stigma, and barriers my clients face as they work on building their quality of life.
Connecting with the right therapist is critical when starting your therapeutic journey. I provide free consultations to potential clients, ensuring they feel confident when committing to their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with patients and families who experience Chronic Illness and Pain. As a chronic illness patient and therapist, I recognize the unique and personal journey clients experience. I understand the obstacles, stigma, and barriers my clients face as they work on building their quality of life.
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Photo of Tessa Nayowith, MS, LCMHC, LCASA, LMBT, RYS500
Tessa Nayowith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCASA, LMBT, RYS500
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28206
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy bringing the body into treatment to aid in easing anxiety, increasing awareness and aliveness and in resolving stress, tension, trauma and pain.
I am not currently accepting new patients at this time :) Welcome! My approach involves integrative, person centered, and trauma-informed practices. I see the therapy relationship as one of support and collaboration and examine cases through a lens focused on human relationships, development, and how the mind and body inform and affect one another. I aim to bring warmth, acceptance, and curiosity to my work. It is my goal is to help you better understand yourself, to heal from the past and live more fully in the present.
I enjoy bringing the body into treatment to aid in easing anxiety, increasing awareness and aliveness and in resolving stress, tension, trauma and pain.
I am not currently accepting new patients at this time :) Welcome! My approach involves integrative, person centered, and trauma-informed practices. I see the therapy relationship as one of support and collaboration and examine cases through a lens focused on human relationships, development, and how the mind and body inform and affect one another. I aim to bring warmth, acceptance, and curiosity to my work. It is my goal is to help you better understand yourself, to heal from the past and live more fully in the present.
(828) 554-7964 View (828) 554-7964
Photo of Susan Mitchell, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Mitchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203  (Online Only)
My focus is helping clients develop the resiliency, confidence and coping tools to tackle those stressors, pain and adversity.
Life is hard! So much is beyond our control and just trying to survive can be exhausting. If you are struggling mentally and emotionally, feel overwhelmed or alone, please know - you don’t have to continue feeling this way. With more than 25 years in practice, I've helped many clients navigate the way through their dark and emotionally difficult times. Through an interactive therapy style, I offer insight, supportive (yet honest) feedback, effective tools for coping, and HOPE for a brighter future. Together, we will share in the responsibility of getting you to a happier, more peaceful place in your life. The TRUTH is .....
My focus is helping clients develop the resiliency, confidence and coping tools to tackle those stressors, pain and adversity.
Life is hard! So much is beyond our control and just trying to survive can be exhausting. If you are struggling mentally and emotionally, feel overwhelmed or alone, please know - you don’t have to continue feeling this way. With more than 25 years in practice, I've helped many clients navigate the way through their dark and emotionally difficult times. Through an interactive therapy style, I offer insight, supportive (yet honest) feedback, effective tools for coping, and HOPE for a brighter future. Together, we will share in the responsibility of getting you to a happier, more peaceful place in your life. The TRUTH is .....
(910) 601-9685 View (910) 601-9685
Photo of Frank E Gantz - Dr. Gantz- Davidson Psychological Consulting, PC, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Gantz- Davidson Psychological Consulting, PC
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
ALL SERVICE PROVIDED VIA VIDEO TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Gantz is a Board Certified Clinical Psychologist, achieved by only 4% of eligible psychologists. With over 40 years of mental health experience and 33 years as a licensed psychologist, he specializes in working with people dealing with anxiety issues (including test and performance anxiety), post-traumatic stress (including combat, accidents and assaults), depression & mood disorders, chronic pain, medical disorders, conversion disorders, interpersonal problems and more. See https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-e-gantz-psyd-abpp-93a944185/ or https://davidsonpsychology.wordpress.com/
ALL SERVICE PROVIDED VIA VIDEO TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Gantz is a Board Certified Clinical Psychologist, achieved by only 4% of eligible psychologists. With over 40 years of mental health experience and 33 years as a licensed psychologist, he specializes in working with people dealing with anxiety issues (including test and performance anxiety), post-traumatic stress (including combat, accidents and assaults), depression & mood disorders, chronic pain, medical disorders, conversion disorders, interpersonal problems and more. See https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-e-gantz-psyd-abpp-93a944185/ or https://davidsonpsychology.wordpress.com/
(980) 243-0781 View (980) 243-0781
Photo of Jennifer Sutton - Chronic Hope Counseling PLLC, LCMHC
Chronic Hope Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
If you or someone you love struggles with chronic pain or illness please reach out to us and begin the steps to taking control of your pain and mental health.
We have interns for sliding scale sessions, play therapy for children and everything in-between! If you are feeling overwhelmed. anxious, isolated, lonely or simply want to learn how to live your best life with your pain Chronic Hope is the place to be. We offer counseling services for those with chronic pain and illness. Your pain/illness effects everything you do, so it needs to be taken into every consideration as you heal. We can help you learn to live beyond you pain by getting you in your best place mentally. All of our clinicians and interns have personal experience with pain creating a unique, empathetic experience.
If you or someone you love struggles with chronic pain or illness please reach out to us and begin the steps to taking control of your pain and mental health.
We have interns for sliding scale sessions, play therapy for children and everything in-between! If you are feeling overwhelmed. anxious, isolated, lonely or simply want to learn how to live your best life with your pain Chronic Hope is the place to be. We offer counseling services for those with chronic pain and illness. Your pain/illness effects everything you do, so it needs to be taken into every consideration as you heal. We can help you learn to live beyond you pain by getting you in your best place mentally. All of our clinicians and interns have personal experience with pain creating a unique, empathetic experience.
(919) 626-3303 View (919) 626-3303
Photo of Amber Tolbert - The Healing Collective, LCSW, LCMHC, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Healing Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
Pain is motivating, and we offer customized treatment to meet your needs.
Our definition of recovery is working towards our truest and highest self, not just working towards abstinence. We are trauma specialists in active recovery and focus on healing trauma while reinstating a sense of self. We believe that if you do the hard work, and you keep coming back, you will get better. Our therapists are relationship experts in developing the roadmap to other relationships through self.
Pain is motivating, and we offer customized treatment to meet your needs.
Our definition of recovery is working towards our truest and highest self, not just working towards abstinence. We are trauma specialists in active recovery and focus on healing trauma while reinstating a sense of self. We believe that if you do the hard work, and you keep coming back, you will get better. Our therapists are relationship experts in developing the roadmap to other relationships through self.
(704) 275-0441 View (704) 275-0441
Photo of Melody Flannery, LMHC
Melody Flannery
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Hi and thank you for stopping by. I'm Melody Flannery, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Clinical Addictions Counselor, and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor in NC. I have over 20 years of experience and training in the areas including but not limited to anxiety, trauma, relationships, attachment, chronic pain, adjustment, addictions, grief, career, and crisis resolution.
Hi and thank you for stopping by. I'm Melody Flannery, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Clinical Addictions Counselor, and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor in NC. I have over 20 years of experience and training in the areas including but not limited to anxiety, trauma, relationships, attachment, chronic pain, adjustment, addictions, grief, career, and crisis resolution.
(980) 944-8874 View (980) 944-8874
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Rita McDonough, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Stephanie Rita McDonough
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
I have particular expertise in supporting people living with acute or chronic medical illness.
Most of us can relate to the fact that life can be unpredictable, sometimes sending us in a direction we could never truly prepare for. When met with uncertainty, struggle, or suffering it can be difficult to know what path to take forward. I take an authentic, collaborative and compassion-focused stance so you can feel comfortable and confident in your ability to navigate challenges. My specialized training in clinical health psychology allows me to consider how complex biological, social and psychological factors intersect, providing a comprehensive understanding of your unique situation.
I have particular expertise in supporting people living with acute or chronic medical illness.
Most of us can relate to the fact that life can be unpredictable, sometimes sending us in a direction we could never truly prepare for. When met with uncertainty, struggle, or suffering it can be difficult to know what path to take forward. I take an authentic, collaborative and compassion-focused stance so you can feel comfortable and confident in your ability to navigate challenges. My specialized training in clinical health psychology allows me to consider how complex biological, social and psychological factors intersect, providing a comprehensive understanding of your unique situation.
(704) 910-8381 View (704) 910-8381
Photo of Mark Livak, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Mark Livak
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I admire anyone who is willing to heal from their emotional pain and improve their troubled relationships.
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
I admire anyone who is willing to heal from their emotional pain and improve their troubled relationships.
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
(704) 268-9898 View (704) 268-9898
Photo of Sherrá Watkins - Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CRC, CCS
Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CRC, CCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
We've worked with patients living with chronic pain, chronic diseases (Diabetes, Hypertension, HIV/AIDS, Lupus, Sickle Cell), perinatal mental health concerns, anxiety, depression and those needing career/vocational coaching.
We give so much of ourselves to our jobs, families, friends and more that we often lose ourselves and focus on the daily struggle of just surviving. Becoming overwhelmed or feeling anxious, depressed, scared or even angry, may stop you from reaching your full potential. We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. We have a passion for helping others to find their voice, passion, and to create a healthier reality than their present state. We provide Teletherapy & Coaching services. Therapy services are provided by a Four Therapists & Coaching services by Drs. Watkins, Elbert & Blumell.
We've worked with patients living with chronic pain, chronic diseases (Diabetes, Hypertension, HIV/AIDS, Lupus, Sickle Cell), perinatal mental health concerns, anxiety, depression and those needing career/vocational coaching.
We give so much of ourselves to our jobs, families, friends and more that we often lose ourselves and focus on the daily struggle of just surviving. Becoming overwhelmed or feeling anxious, depressed, scared or even angry, may stop you from reaching your full potential. We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. We have a passion for helping others to find their voice, passion, and to create a healthier reality than their present state. We provide Teletherapy & Coaching services. Therapy services are provided by a Four Therapists & Coaching services by Drs. Watkins, Elbert & Blumell.
(704) 512-0618 View (704) 512-0618
Photo of Kayla Patterson, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Kayla Patterson
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults experiencing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, chronic pain, relationship troubles, or struggling with spirituality/faith concerns (i.
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults experiencing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, chronic pain, relationship troubles, or struggling with spirituality/faith concerns (i.
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
(704) 389-5748 View (704) 389-5748
Photo of Derrick Pegg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Derrick Pegg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212  (Online Only)
I understand that while our experiences don't define who we are, they do influence and shape how we interact with the world around us. In our sessions, we will work together to identify your goals and develop strategies to achieve them. My goal is to help you discover the tools and insights needed to navigate life with greater ease and confidence. I have extensive experience working with the 2SLGBTQ+ community, neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, HIV, and other chronic health issues.
I understand that while our experiences don't define who we are, they do influence and shape how we interact with the world around us. In our sessions, we will work together to identify your goals and develop strategies to achieve them. My goal is to help you discover the tools and insights needed to navigate life with greater ease and confidence. I have extensive experience working with the 2SLGBTQ+ community, neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, HIV, and other chronic health issues.
(980) 944-8985 View (980) 944-8985
Photo of Sean Dawson, LPA, LCAS, Psychological Associate
Sean Dawson
Psychological Associate, LPA, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
Sean Dawson, LPA, LCAS is a Licensed Psychological Associate and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist now serving patients at Avance Care SouthPark in Charlotte, NC. He obtained a Master of Arts degree in Psychology with a concentration in Substance Abuse Treatment Psychology from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. He has experience working with a wide range of mental health needs in both individual and group settings including depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. He specializes in working with individuals experiencing chronic pain and chronic conditions.
Sean Dawson, LPA, LCAS is a Licensed Psychological Associate and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist now serving patients at Avance Care SouthPark in Charlotte, NC. He obtained a Master of Arts degree in Psychology with a concentration in Substance Abuse Treatment Psychology from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. He has experience working with a wide range of mental health needs in both individual and group settings including depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. He specializes in working with individuals experiencing chronic pain and chronic conditions.
(980) 372-8998 View (980) 372-8998
Photo of Michelle Einson, PsyD, Psychologist
Michelle Einson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
With over 14 years in the medical setting, I also specialize in chronic illness, bereavement and pain management.
Raising a child with developmental, medical, or psychological difficulties can be a struggle for even the best of families. Couples, as well, often need help with navigating the myriad of "man/woman communication styles and parenting difficulties..
With over 14 years in the medical setting, I also specialize in chronic illness, bereavement and pain management.
Raising a child with developmental, medical, or psychological difficulties can be a struggle for even the best of families. Couples, as well, often need help with navigating the myriad of "man/woman communication styles and parenting difficulties..
(980) 389-2892 View (980) 389-2892
Photo of Samii Stephens, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samii Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Hi there! Thank you for taking the initiative to seek care for yourself or a loved one. I have multiple years of experience in working with adolescents and adults in the mental health field. Primarily, my areas of focus are treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain/chronic illness and mental health in athletes. I appreciate holistic approaches to therapy but I enjoy being able to adapt treatment to the unique characteristics/needs of each client. My hope is to be a support for you as you reach your goals, face obstacles and celebrate victories!
Hi there! Thank you for taking the initiative to seek care for yourself or a loved one. I have multiple years of experience in working with adolescents and adults in the mental health field. Primarily, my areas of focus are treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain/chronic illness and mental health in athletes. I appreciate holistic approaches to therapy but I enjoy being able to adapt treatment to the unique characteristics/needs of each client. My hope is to be a support for you as you reach your goals, face obstacles and celebrate victories!
(704) 272-1379 View (704) 272-1379
Photo of Asha Sims, MA, LCMHCS, RYT-200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Asha Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
Are you tired of traditional psychotherapy and feel like its not helping any more? Do you feel the current forms of treatment are not enough? Dealing with stress, anxiety, and overly sensitive to others? Body pain and somatic concerns? Feeling disconnected? Not grounded? Financial issues? Relationship issues? Its time to come into balance! Time to reconnect with SELF!!
Are you tired of traditional psychotherapy and feel like its not helping any more? Do you feel the current forms of treatment are not enough? Dealing with stress, anxiety, and overly sensitive to others? Body pain and somatic concerns? Feeling disconnected? Not grounded? Financial issues? Relationship issues? Its time to come into balance! Time to reconnect with SELF!!
(704) 703-7278 View (704) 703-7278
Photo of Denetra Gary - Complement & Complete Biblical Counseling, LCSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Complement & Complete Biblical Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28208  (Online Only)
Complement & Complete is a virtual, mental health practice designed to help individuals overcome emotional roots that cause emotional, physical and spiritual pain.
Welcome to my practice! I'm Denetra Gary, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland (LCSW-C), and North Carolina (LCSW). I'm a Christian-based counselor and use the Bible as my foundation. I have thirteen years of experience in social work and mental health counseling. My therapeutic focus includes working with adults, teens, and children who struggle with anxiety, depression, and chronic disorganization. I'm confident and dedicated to helping you reach your goals.
Complement & Complete is a virtual, mental health practice designed to help individuals overcome emotional roots that cause emotional, physical and spiritual pain.
Welcome to my practice! I'm Denetra Gary, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland (LCSW-C), and North Carolina (LCSW). I'm a Christian-based counselor and use the Bible as my foundation. I have thirteen years of experience in social work and mental health counseling. My therapeutic focus includes working with adults, teens, and children who struggle with anxiety, depression, and chronic disorganization. I'm confident and dedicated to helping you reach your goals.
(301) 215-2887 View (301) 215-2887
Photo of Robert Limkeman, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Robert Limkeman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Life can be incredibly painful. We can find ourselves feeling stuck, confused, lonely, anxious, despairing, or lost. We want to make sense of our past & present circumstances, map out a path forward, all in a way that feels true to our values and honors the pain we experience. My clients often struggle with issues like depression & anxiety, grief & loss, trauma & abuse, identity & meaning formation, sexuality & pornography, spiritual distress & relationship strife. Whether highly motivated or exhausted and on the verge of giving up, I am honored to meet each client where they are and walk with them step by step toward change.
Life can be incredibly painful. We can find ourselves feeling stuck, confused, lonely, anxious, despairing, or lost. We want to make sense of our past & present circumstances, map out a path forward, all in a way that feels true to our values and honors the pain we experience. My clients often struggle with issues like depression & anxiety, grief & loss, trauma & abuse, identity & meaning formation, sexuality & pornography, spiritual distress & relationship strife. Whether highly motivated or exhausted and on the verge of giving up, I am honored to meet each client where they are and walk with them step by step toward change.
(704) 769-2168 x114 View (704) 769-2168 x114
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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.