Chronic Pain Therapists in Orange County, NC
![Photo of Beatrice Andres, SEP, LCMHC, NCC, Somatic, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51210930-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Beatrice Andres
Licensed Professional Counselor, SEP, LCMHC, NCC, Somatic
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
I specialize and am passionate about working with clients who struggle with developmental trauma, medical trauma, attachment and relationship wounds, PTSD, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, chronic pain, disordered eating, addictive behaviors, and feelings of not belonging.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and a Transforming Touch® Therapist.
I specialize and am passionate about working with clients who struggle with developmental trauma, medical trauma, attachment and relationship wounds, PTSD, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, chronic pain, disordered eating, addictive behaviors, and feelings of not belonging.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and a Transforming Touch® Therapist.
![Photo of Alan Konell, MSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d39dd884-a162-4d53-955e-d04285cbaf1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is one who wants relief from stress, anxiety, guilt and/or shame, trauma, or chronic pain, but has not been able to achieve this. Typically, I can help people realize lasting desired change efficiently and effectively. Also, I have had great success helping people with phobias and fears and those who want improved relationships. My first goal is to do no harm. My second goal is to help clients realize desired goals while respecting and preserving what is already working in their lives.
My ideal client is one who wants relief from stress, anxiety, guilt and/or shame, trauma, or chronic pain, but has not been able to achieve this. Typically, I can help people realize lasting desired change efficiently and effectively. Also, I have had great success helping people with phobias and fears and those who want improved relationships. My first goal is to do no harm. My second goal is to help clients realize desired goals while respecting and preserving what is already working in their lives.
![Photo of Steve Heymen, PhD, BCIAC, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/628935a5-3c55-4808-88ff-d53a7e046158/2/320x400.jpeg)
My primary areas of interest are working with adult patients who suffer with emotional dysregulation, anxiety, chronic pain, or gastrointestinal disorders.
My goal is to help individuals develop skills to increase control over their own mental and physical health. I provide a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Biofeedback Therapy to treat a broad range of psychological and physical challenges in an atmosphere that is friendly and efficient.
My primary areas of interest are working with adult patients who suffer with emotional dysregulation, anxiety, chronic pain, or gastrointestinal disorders.
My goal is to help individuals develop skills to increase control over their own mental and physical health. I provide a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Biofeedback Therapy to treat a broad range of psychological and physical challenges in an atmosphere that is friendly and efficient.
![Photo of Robyn Claar - Robyn Claar, Ph.D., PLLC, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca2b077-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robyn Claar, Ph.D., PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27599
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, teenagers and young adults struggling with anxiety, stress, OCD, and depression. I also have extensive expertise and training working with children and families coping with chronic medical conditions and pain, such as stomach aches, headaches, and food allergies. In addition, I conduct thorough psychoeducational assessments, ADHD evaluations, and early kindergarten entry assessments to help children, teenagers, and college students achieve academic success.
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, teenagers and young adults struggling with anxiety, stress, OCD, and depression. I also have extensive expertise and training working with children and families coping with chronic medical conditions and pain, such as stomach aches, headaches, and food allergies. In addition, I conduct thorough psychoeducational assessments, ADHD evaluations, and early kindergarten entry assessments to help children, teenagers, and college students achieve academic success.
![Photo of Beth Pearson, MSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a31f243-84cc-42bf-9852-82a6d441741b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a queer therapist committed to creating an inclusive, affirming space where all clients feel safe and supported. I provide individualized care tailored to each person’s needs and goals, with a special focus on LGBTQIA+ and poly/CNM individuals. I also specialize in supporting college and graduate students - offering strategies to manage the unique pressures of academia, stress, and anxiety. With experience in chronic illness, chronic pain, and a Health at Every Size approach, I offer compassionate guidance for those navigating identity, growth, and life’s challenges.
I’m a queer therapist committed to creating an inclusive, affirming space where all clients feel safe and supported. I provide individualized care tailored to each person’s needs and goals, with a special focus on LGBTQIA+ and poly/CNM individuals. I also specialize in supporting college and graduate students - offering strategies to manage the unique pressures of academia, stress, and anxiety. With experience in chronic illness, chronic pain, and a Health at Every Size approach, I offer compassionate guidance for those navigating identity, growth, and life’s challenges.
![Photo of Carey Downey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a933709-67b5-460e-9796-fb3d4a5ae94b/4/320x400.jpeg)
Carey Downey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, chronic illness and LGBTQIA+.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in a stress cycle of worry, sadness, or loneliness, you are not alone! These emotions can be natural responses to life circumstances. Sometimes it seems as though you can’t find your way out of these feelings. As a licensed clinical social worker, I am ready to join with you and offer support. Together we can identify your personal challenges, build upon your unique strengths, and develop healthier life patterns.
My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, chronic illness and LGBTQIA+.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in a stress cycle of worry, sadness, or loneliness, you are not alone! These emotions can be natural responses to life circumstances. Sometimes it seems as though you can’t find your way out of these feelings. As a licensed clinical social worker, I am ready to join with you and offer support. Together we can identify your personal challenges, build upon your unique strengths, and develop healthier life patterns.
![Photo of Jackie Ma, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f448bc0-1e83-4256-9932-4da52898ff40/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients! Are you battling pain, sleep issues, or fatigue? I'm here to help you find solutions. Together, we'll work towards a life filled with meaning and vitality. My approach is all about empowering you to handle your thoughts and feelings skillfully so you can lead the life that you imagine for yourself.
Accepting new patients! Are you battling pain, sleep issues, or fatigue? I'm here to help you find solutions. Together, we'll work towards a life filled with meaning and vitality. My approach is all about empowering you to handle your thoughts and feelings skillfully so you can lead the life that you imagine for yourself.
![Photo of Dr. Dana Lebo, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/243c668c-324e-4946-8f38-ea9cf666373a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for support to master life's challenges, break free of ineffective patterns of behavior & improve your mental health & well-being? With over two decades of experience, I am passionate about helping individuals enhance their performance & better manage anxiety, life transitions, trauma, depression, pain, sleep, and more. My approach to therapy is grounded in mind-body, non-pharmacological techniques for dealing with the complexities & stress of busy home, school, work, sports & family lives. Additionally, I am credentialed to practice teletherapy in 36 states listed on the PsyPact Map at psypact.org under Quick Links.
Are you looking for support to master life's challenges, break free of ineffective patterns of behavior & improve your mental health & well-being? With over two decades of experience, I am passionate about helping individuals enhance their performance & better manage anxiety, life transitions, trauma, depression, pain, sleep, and more. My approach to therapy is grounded in mind-body, non-pharmacological techniques for dealing with the complexities & stress of busy home, school, work, sports & family lives. Additionally, I am credentialed to practice teletherapy in 36 states listed on the PsyPact Map at psypact.org under Quick Links.
![Photo of Hardarshan Kaur Khalsa - Sacred Listener, MA, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44d59b17-52dc-465f-8e1a-8f5deee63591/3/320x400.jpeg)
I also have experience as a hospital chaplain and am honored to help those dealing with chronic illness, grief, and loss.
Are you a generally healthy person, looking for guidance in how to live your life in the healthiest and happiest way? Whether your challenges are in the realm of finances, relationships, work satisfaction, anxiety, or depression, transpersonal counseling can help you! If you are looking for a therapist that can include your spiritual beliefs and include those in your treatment, and if you enjoy varied approaches to mental health and happiness such as art, yoga, and meditation, I might be the therapist for you!
I also have experience as a hospital chaplain and am honored to help those dealing with chronic illness, grief, and loss.
Are you a generally healthy person, looking for guidance in how to live your life in the healthiest and happiest way? Whether your challenges are in the realm of finances, relationships, work satisfaction, anxiety, or depression, transpersonal counseling can help you! If you are looking for a therapist that can include your spiritual beliefs and include those in your treatment, and if you enjoy varied approaches to mental health and happiness such as art, yoga, and meditation, I might be the therapist for you!
![Photo of Tamara Share, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c238c0b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Working with adults and adolescents in individual, couples, and group counseling, Tamara considers herself a generalist in the field of psychology. Her areas of expertise include developmental concerns, anxiety and stress management, career and life planning, cultural identities,
dissertation/thesis coaching, ADHD and LD coaching and testing, and health psychology (e.g. eating and weight concerns, mind-body awareness, and dealing with chronic illness). She also provides organizational consultation and is a trained facilitator in outdoor education. Recent presentations have included: 1) sexual intimacy, 2) wellness coaching, 3) exploring gender norms, and 4) the treatment of disordered eating & other psychosomatic illnesses.
Working with adults and adolescents in individual, couples, and group counseling, Tamara considers herself a generalist in the field of psychology. Her areas of expertise include developmental concerns, anxiety and stress management, career and life planning, cultural identities,
dissertation/thesis coaching, ADHD and LD coaching and testing, and health psychology (e.g. eating and weight concerns, mind-body awareness, and dealing with chronic illness). She also provides organizational consultation and is a trained facilitator in outdoor education. Recent presentations have included: 1) sexual intimacy, 2) wellness coaching, 3) exploring gender norms, and 4) the treatment of disordered eating & other psychosomatic illnesses.
![Photo of Bridget Pemberton-Smith, MA, ATR-BC, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf004196-45a6-4567-8bfe-d936bece0a78/3/320x400.jpeg)
As an expressive arts therapist, I promote the healing power of the arts and am dedicated to helping my clients discover their strengths and healing potential. I love being able to walk with people on their healing journies, guiding them through transitions and periods of growth. I have worked with a variety of people including children with physical illness, at-risk adolescents, adults with mental illness, seniors both with and without dementia, refugees and immigrants and as a supervisor for art therapists seeking art therapy registration. I have worked in schools, hospitals, retirement centers and mental health agencies.
As an expressive arts therapist, I promote the healing power of the arts and am dedicated to helping my clients discover their strengths and healing potential. I love being able to walk with people on their healing journies, guiding them through transitions and periods of growth. I have worked with a variety of people including children with physical illness, at-risk adolescents, adults with mental illness, seniors both with and without dementia, refugees and immigrants and as a supervisor for art therapists seeking art therapy registration. I have worked in schools, hospitals, retirement centers and mental health agencies.
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![Photo of Troy Lantz, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42b5995a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Through the years of working with others and as an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker I have worked in various community and primary care settings assisting people with anxiety, depression, chronic medical conditions, chronic insomnia, chronic pain, maladaptive behaviors, and trauma.
Most people with anxiety or depression don’t realize how their negative self-talk keeps them down and actually deepens their anxiety or depression. After working with me, my clients identify and reverse the effects of their negative self-talk, start feeling energized and motivated to do the things they used to enjoy, and are able to experience the simple joys of being alive again.
Through the years of working with others and as an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker I have worked in various community and primary care settings assisting people with anxiety, depression, chronic medical conditions, chronic insomnia, chronic pain, maladaptive behaviors, and trauma.
Most people with anxiety or depression don’t realize how their negative self-talk keeps them down and actually deepens their anxiety or depression. After working with me, my clients identify and reverse the effects of their negative self-talk, start feeling energized and motivated to do the things they used to enjoy, and are able to experience the simple joys of being alive again.
![Photo of Brittany Thompson, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48478ccd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
A focus of mine is working with those affected by illness or a neurological disorder, such as Traumatic brain injury (TBI), Parkinson's disorder, or Stroke.
I believe that we have all of the tools in us already to make the change we desire. Therapy can serve to identify and access those qualities, offering a place to create a safe relationship and to explore and strengthen ones' sense of self, and to work through challenges. Do you have trouble liking yourself? Do you struggle with low confidence, anxiety or other intense emotions, such as shame or guilt? In my relational approach to treatment, I strive to find a balance, reduce suffering, and work toward the change the individual desires.
A focus of mine is working with those affected by illness or a neurological disorder, such as Traumatic brain injury (TBI), Parkinson's disorder, or Stroke.
I believe that we have all of the tools in us already to make the change we desire. Therapy can serve to identify and access those qualities, offering a place to create a safe relationship and to explore and strengthen ones' sense of self, and to work through challenges. Do you have trouble liking yourself? Do you struggle with low confidence, anxiety or other intense emotions, such as shame or guilt? In my relational approach to treatment, I strive to find a balance, reduce suffering, and work toward the change the individual desires.
![Photo of Michelle Mobley, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, RYT200, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99432cb1-23e2-49af-81e9-d03d012505b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Mobley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, RYT200, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel like a part of you is stuck in the past or perhaps a part of you is always thinking about the future? Maybe you feel the tension in your body and hear the endless chatter of your thoughts? Intellectually you know you are good enough and lovable but there's a feeling that lingers. You might be considering that your physical pain could have roots in your thoughts/feelings. Perhaps you've experienced something really difficult and challenging. Maybe trauma(s)? Clients that work with me are aware of the mind-body connection & are looking for an integrative approach to therapy.
Do you feel like a part of you is stuck in the past or perhaps a part of you is always thinking about the future? Maybe you feel the tension in your body and hear the endless chatter of your thoughts? Intellectually you know you are good enough and lovable but there's a feeling that lingers. You might be considering that your physical pain could have roots in your thoughts/feelings. Perhaps you've experienced something really difficult and challenging. Maybe trauma(s)? Clients that work with me are aware of the mind-body connection & are looking for an integrative approach to therapy.
![Photo of Lauren Cardwell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/489ebfd9-1846-4454-9f55-67dc6464c423/3/320x400.jpeg)
She has a special interest in people experiencing chronic illness, grief and loss, medical professional burn out, perinatal and postpartum depression, and the special needs population.
****Not accepting new clients***Lauren Cardwell, MSW, LCSW is a clinical therapist.. She believes that being a human is hard and messy, but that people have the capability to be resilient. She is passionate about helping others make positive changes in their own timing. Her approach to therapy is strengths-based and a collaborative experience between her and her clients. Her goal of therapy is to help clients feel seen and heard in their experiences. She utilizes Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is trauma-focused. She is LBGTQ+ affirming and works with individuals, children, adults, couples, and families.
She has a special interest in people experiencing chronic illness, grief and loss, medical professional burn out, perinatal and postpartum depression, and the special needs population.
****Not accepting new clients***Lauren Cardwell, MSW, LCSW is a clinical therapist.. She believes that being a human is hard and messy, but that people have the capability to be resilient. She is passionate about helping others make positive changes in their own timing. Her approach to therapy is strengths-based and a collaborative experience between her and her clients. Her goal of therapy is to help clients feel seen and heard in their experiences. She utilizes Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is trauma-focused. She is LBGTQ+ affirming and works with individuals, children, adults, couples, and families.
![Photo of Martha Gillis Delafield, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c32e2170-af4a-49e8-8ac8-dffd7e9cf791/3/320x400.jpeg)
Martha Gillis Delafield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Energy psychotherapy utilizes the energy of the body to rapidly move through old fears, traumas, addictions, pain, and limiting beliefs.
I love working with people who feel stuck, and who want to understand, embrace, and maximize their potential. Many of the people I work with have been frustrated with traditional talk therapy, and want a way through their depression, anxiety and trauma that is efficient and effective. Using tools like energy psychotherapy, neurofeedback, and Human Design, I help people to understand who they really are and who've they've been conditioned to be; these approaches and tools provide a road map back to the joy of their true nature.
Energy psychotherapy utilizes the energy of the body to rapidly move through old fears, traumas, addictions, pain, and limiting beliefs.
I love working with people who feel stuck, and who want to understand, embrace, and maximize their potential. Many of the people I work with have been frustrated with traditional talk therapy, and want a way through their depression, anxiety and trauma that is efficient and effective. Using tools like energy psychotherapy, neurofeedback, and Human Design, I help people to understand who they really are and who've they've been conditioned to be; these approaches and tools provide a road map back to the joy of their true nature.
![Photo of Marty Weems, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fe56169-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marty Weems
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Sometimes we struggle and need help finding our way back to the life we want to live. We may experience feelings of anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and guilt. As a therapist, I aim to create a safe space for my clients to explore their feelings and experiences, and ultimately move towards the things they value. My practice is rooted in compassion, acceptance, and non-judgement. As a LGBTQI affirming therapist, I also recognize the role that oppression plays in creating and maintaining psychological pain. As such, the queer community is a priority in my work.
Sometimes we struggle and need help finding our way back to the life we want to live. We may experience feelings of anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and guilt. As a therapist, I aim to create a safe space for my clients to explore their feelings and experiences, and ultimately move towards the things they value. My practice is rooted in compassion, acceptance, and non-judgement. As a LGBTQI affirming therapist, I also recognize the role that oppression plays in creating and maintaining psychological pain. As such, the queer community is a priority in my work.
![Photo of Page J. Littlewood, MBA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c47a44c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Page J. Littlewood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Medical Family Therapy includes helping clients cope with a chronic illness or disability.
I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist. My work supports individuals, couples, families and small businesses seeking to unlock their ability to access the best they have to offer. We all need to experience a secure bond with another to provide a safe haven for comfort and support and a secure base to go out into the world. Together, we can find the secure bond, fun, love, and caring masked by conflicts, connect you with the resources we are all born with that build self esteem, strengthen relationships, bring into awareness and transform old and familiar patterns of communication that are defensive rather than connecting.
Medical Family Therapy includes helping clients cope with a chronic illness or disability.
I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist. My work supports individuals, couples, families and small businesses seeking to unlock their ability to access the best they have to offer. We all need to experience a secure bond with another to provide a safe haven for comfort and support and a secure base to go out into the world. Together, we can find the secure bond, fun, love, and caring masked by conflicts, connect you with the resources we are all born with that build self esteem, strengthen relationships, bring into awareness and transform old and familiar patterns of communication that are defensive rather than connecting.
![Photo of Victoria Michelle Welch, LCSW, CPTT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/214261a6-b8d1-42a5-89c4-c78240d0f481/2/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Michelle Welch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPTT-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
I know what it's like to search for a therapist who understands attachment issues, chronic illness and caregiver stress and for ones who can incorporate faith in their practice.
Parenting a child with special needs or an adopted child who has experienced trauma requires extraordinary strength. Care-giving for aging parents presents similar demands that intensify our need for a listening ear and access to resources. If you are in the midst of the tension between managing a child or parent's medical and emotional needs while equipping him/her to independently provide as much self-care as possible, you could use some serious encouragement. The internal conflict that arises as you meet -- and fail to meet -- the parenting/care-giving challenge(s) is an experience not meant to be faced alone.
I know what it's like to search for a therapist who understands attachment issues, chronic illness and caregiver stress and for ones who can incorporate faith in their practice.
Parenting a child with special needs or an adopted child who has experienced trauma requires extraordinary strength. Care-giving for aging parents presents similar demands that intensify our need for a listening ear and access to resources. If you are in the midst of the tension between managing a child or parent's medical and emotional needs while equipping him/her to independently provide as much self-care as possible, you could use some serious encouragement. The internal conflict that arises as you meet -- and fail to meet -- the parenting/care-giving challenge(s) is an experience not meant to be faced alone.
![Photo of Kathy Murray, LCSW, SEP, Somatic, NBC-HWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39d567d1-f318-4e28-a85d-31f278787ce1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathy Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, Somatic, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (Online Only)
As a Somatic Therapist and Licensed Health and Wellness Coach, I believe that everyone has within them an inner wisdom and inner healing power that is their natural birthright. My role is to help create the environment for that inner genius to arise and find itself. When this is done, new meaning, purpose and life narratives can be discovered and lived out. I have wide experience assisting individuals in managing a variety of behavioral and emotional concerns including trauma, chronic pain and health issues, difficult life transitions, weight management, anxiety, depression, and stress management.
As a Somatic Therapist and Licensed Health and Wellness Coach, I believe that everyone has within them an inner wisdom and inner healing power that is their natural birthright. My role is to help create the environment for that inner genius to arise and find itself. When this is done, new meaning, purpose and life narratives can be discovered and lived out. I have wide experience assisting individuals in managing a variety of behavioral and emotional concerns including trauma, chronic pain and health issues, difficult life transitions, weight management, anxiety, depression, and stress management.
See more therapy options for Orange County
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.