Chronic Pain Therapists in Raleigh, NC

Photo of Kristy Bastone, LCMHCA, NCC, C-AAIS, MEd, RYT-200, Counselor
Kristy Bastone
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC, C-AAIS, MEd, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I have experience working with clients of all ages on a wide range of issues, including chronic pain and illness, anxiety, parenting, adoption, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, addiction, veterans concerns, and grief. I believe that counseling is a collaborative experience, where both the client and therapist decide on a way forward together.
I have experience working with clients of all ages on a wide range of issues, including chronic pain and illness, anxiety, parenting, adoption, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, addiction, veterans concerns, and grief. I believe that counseling is a collaborative experience, where both the client and therapist decide on a way forward together.
(919) 709-3620 View (919) 709-3620
Photo of Jennifer Sutton - Chronic Hope Counseling PLLC, LCMHC
Chronic Hope Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (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 Gisela Weimer, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Gisela Weimer
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I work with motivated individuals seeking relief from chronic pain as well as reduced stress and anxiety in their personal lives or at work. Chronic pain conditions that I treat include but are not limited to neck and back pain, headaches, pelvic pain, IBS, tinnitus, and fibromyalgia.
I work with motivated individuals seeking relief from chronic pain as well as reduced stress and anxiety in their personal lives or at work. Chronic pain conditions that I treat include but are not limited to neck and back pain, headaches, pelvic pain, IBS, tinnitus, and fibromyalgia.
(919) 551-6904 View (919) 551-6904
Photo of Anna Mulhollem, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Mulhollem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I serve individual adults needing support with emotion regulation, chronic pain, grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. It takes so much courage to be on this journey, and it can be overwhelming to search for a therapist. I get that and will meet you right where you are. As a psychotherapist and former mental health peer support specialist, I bring my lived experience and professional expertise to our work together. My goal is to co-create a space with you of trust, compassion, and respect to build a foundation for healing. I am honored to join you on your path.
I serve individual adults needing support with emotion regulation, chronic pain, grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. It takes so much courage to be on this journey, and it can be overwhelming to search for a therapist. I get that and will meet you right where you are. As a psychotherapist and former mental health peer support specialist, I bring my lived experience and professional expertise to our work together. My goal is to co-create a space with you of trust, compassion, and respect to build a foundation for healing. I am honored to join you on your path.
(919) 289-4161 View (919) 289-4161
Photo of Seriana Gamble, LCMHCA, Counselor
Seriana Gamble
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Not accepting new clients
As someone who had a parent with a severe autoimmune disorder as well as living with my own paired with chronic pain, I have a passion for helping kids and adults strengthen the connection between medical trauma, pain, and mental health.
Hey there! If you have found my profile and you are seeking a counselor who will help you work through your current life issues, then you have found the right place. I work with children 8 and under, teens, and adults. When working with kids, I love to focus on building the child's coping skills, providing the emotional support they need, and helping them work through their stressors while also supporting the parents in their interactions with their children. When working with adults, I like to focus on helping you bring out the best version of yourself while aiding you in working through any issues you may have.
As someone who had a parent with a severe autoimmune disorder as well as living with my own paired with chronic pain, I have a passion for helping kids and adults strengthen the connection between medical trauma, pain, and mental health.
Hey there! If you have found my profile and you are seeking a counselor who will help you work through your current life issues, then you have found the right place. I work with children 8 and under, teens, and adults. When working with kids, I love to focus on building the child's coping skills, providing the emotional support they need, and helping them work through their stressors while also supporting the parents in their interactions with their children. When working with adults, I like to focus on helping you bring out the best version of yourself while aiding you in working through any issues you may have.
(984) 867-2307 View (984) 867-2307
Photo of Megan Lanier, LCMHCA, CRC, Counselor
Megan Lanier
Counselor, LCMHCA, CRC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) who provides therapy to adolescents 15+ and adults with a primary focus on anxiety, OCD, phobias, chronic pain, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, and relationship concerns. My goal as a therapist is to help you move from a place of feeling "stuck" to one where you are empowered to do what matters to you even in the midst of life's difficulties!
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) who provides therapy to adolescents 15+ and adults with a primary focus on anxiety, OCD, phobias, chronic pain, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, and relationship concerns. My goal as a therapist is to help you move from a place of feeling "stuck" to one where you are empowered to do what matters to you even in the midst of life's difficulties!
(984) 464-6609 View (984) 464-6609
Photo of Julie Hardman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Hardman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
I spent years working with clients in Wake and Durham counties and still do! Are you struggling day in day out and want to see something change? I'd love to get to know you and collaborate on how you might cultivate a more fulfilling, less distressing life. I counsel women ages 21+ living with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain and illness; relationship issues, work stressors, major life transitions, grief and loss, creative block, learning self advocacy. I am an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. You can learn to flourish despite issues you may now see as impediments. Let me walk with you on this journey. Let's find your joy!
I spent years working with clients in Wake and Durham counties and still do! Are you struggling day in day out and want to see something change? I'd love to get to know you and collaborate on how you might cultivate a more fulfilling, less distressing life. I counsel women ages 21+ living with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain and illness; relationship issues, work stressors, major life transitions, grief and loss, creative block, learning self advocacy. I am an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. You can learn to flourish despite issues you may now see as impediments. Let me walk with you on this journey. Let's find your joy!
(336) 203-7986 View (336) 203-7986
Photo of Judith Ann Stubanas, RN, MA, LCMHC
Judith Ann Stubanas
RN, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27614  (Online Only)
New clients accepted for teletherapy via a secure link. Please know you will receive ethical, non-judgmental, confidential and compassionate counseling. When any type of stress or trauma, PTSD or chronic pain becomes overwhelming, I will assist you assist you in finding ways to meet your overall physical and emotional needs in balance. I have an interest in addressing the impact of nutrition on mental and physical health. As a counselor and a nurse, I want to provide hope, resources and practical coping skills to live with life's challenges and experience peace, healing and joy.
New clients accepted for teletherapy via a secure link. Please know you will receive ethical, non-judgmental, confidential and compassionate counseling. When any type of stress or trauma, PTSD or chronic pain becomes overwhelming, I will assist you assist you in finding ways to meet your overall physical and emotional needs in balance. I have an interest in addressing the impact of nutrition on mental and physical health. As a counselor and a nurse, I want to provide hope, resources and practical coping skills to live with life's challenges and experience peace, healing and joy.
(919) 263-2903 x259 View (919) 263-2903 x259
Photo of Mindy Brodsky, MSW, LCSWA, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindy Brodsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LGSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Waitlist for new clients
Limited Availability - I specialize in trauma-informed, strengths-based counseling with a passion for integrative health and healing. I serve diverse adolescent and adult populations, including those impacted by cancer and other chronic illness, as well as those who struggle with anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and other life transitions such as prenatal/postpartum support.
Limited Availability - I specialize in trauma-informed, strengths-based counseling with a passion for integrative health and healing. I serve diverse adolescent and adult populations, including those impacted by cancer and other chronic illness, as well as those who struggle with anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and other life transitions such as prenatal/postpartum support.
(984) 464-7277 View (984) 464-7277
Photo of Susan Mitchell, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Mitchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27613  (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 Steve Heymen, PhD, BCIAC, Psychological Associate
Steve Heymen
Psychological Associate, PhD, BCIAC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605
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.
(919) 725-8592 View (919) 725-8592
Photo of Brelonda R Walker - Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC, DBH, LCMHCS, BCIM, BC-TMH, NCC
Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, DBH, LCMHCS, BCIM, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27606  (Online Only)
Feeling as if you will never get well? Tired of visiting multiple practices in search of answers and never finding them? Do you have difficulty managing a chronic illness or complying with your provider's recommended treatment plan? If any of these scenarios sound familiar, allow one of our team members to assist you in regaining your optimal health.
The clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC are qualified, credentialed, and licensed professionals whose primary mission is to provide quality therapeutic care and organizational training to the surrounding community. Their goal is to empower people; to enrich lives; to give you control of your outcomes; and to restore your body, mind and spirit back to their optimal states of functioning. The certified and licensed clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions have over 28 years of experience and are trained in equipping clients with the tools necessary to maximize their environment and enhance their well-being.
Feeling as if you will never get well? Tired of visiting multiple practices in search of answers and never finding them? Do you have difficulty managing a chronic illness or complying with your provider's recommended treatment plan? If any of these scenarios sound familiar, allow one of our team members to assist you in regaining your optimal health.
The clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC are qualified, credentialed, and licensed professionals whose primary mission is to provide quality therapeutic care and organizational training to the surrounding community. Their goal is to empower people; to enrich lives; to give you control of your outcomes; and to restore your body, mind and spirit back to their optimal states of functioning. The certified and licensed clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions have over 28 years of experience and are trained in equipping clients with the tools necessary to maximize their environment and enhance their well-being.
(704) 896-6044 x1 View (704) 896-6044 x1
Photo of Tessa Nayowith, MS, LCMHC, LCASA, LMBT, RYS500
Tessa Nayowith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCASA, LMBT, RYS500
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27602
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 Carey Downey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carey Downey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
Not accepting new clients
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.
(919) 849-8588 View (919) 849-8588
Photo of Erin L Joyner
Erin L Joyner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603  (Online Only)
My name is Erin Joyner, and I am a Master’s Intern Therapist at Breaking Cycles Counseling. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal relationships, life changes, and grief. I also specialize in helping clients living with chronic pain, illness, and disability. I can happily provide for a broad spectrum of needs for individual adults, seniors, teens, couples, and families, via telehealth. I always aim to help people by tailoring my approach to your individual needs. I have a nonjudgmental perspective on everyone and have yet to meet anyone from whom I can’t learn something, too!
My name is Erin Joyner, and I am a Master’s Intern Therapist at Breaking Cycles Counseling. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal relationships, life changes, and grief. I also specialize in helping clients living with chronic pain, illness, and disability. I can happily provide for a broad spectrum of needs for individual adults, seniors, teens, couples, and families, via telehealth. I always aim to help people by tailoring my approach to your individual needs. I have a nonjudgmental perspective on everyone and have yet to meet anyone from whom I can’t learn something, too!
(336) 715-0047 View (336) 715-0047
Photo of Georgia T Sgouros, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Georgia T Sgouros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612
Not accepting new clients
The decision to seek psychotherapy can be one of the most courageous and life-changing things you can do. If you are in emotional pain, struggle with troubling relationship patterns, or are experiencing a difficult life transition, I would like to help. I strive to provide a nurturing, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where we work together to understand the underlying roots of painful patterns and problematic behaviors that may be keeping you feeling stuck and frustrated. It is through this process of self-examination and increased understanding that growth, healing, and change can occur, which can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life.
The decision to seek psychotherapy can be one of the most courageous and life-changing things you can do. If you are in emotional pain, struggle with troubling relationship patterns, or are experiencing a difficult life transition, I would like to help. I strive to provide a nurturing, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where we work together to understand the underlying roots of painful patterns and problematic behaviors that may be keeping you feeling stuck and frustrated. It is through this process of self-examination and increased understanding that growth, healing, and change can occur, which can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life.
(919) 261-3503 View (919) 261-3503
Photo of Tiffany Rogers, LCMHCS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612
Waitlist for new clients
However, what I can do is stand with you in your pain while we get through it together! I can guarantee you that I will provide you with professional counseling without judgment but with empathy and compassion .
Ever felt alone, rejected or misunderstood? Or simply just felt overwhelmed with many obstacles coming at once? If you have, you are not the only one, nor are you in this by yourself. In fact, I believe that it is my duty and my obligation to give you support and help you realize that there is a way to get your life back, to become a better you! Regardless if it is addiction, depression, anxiety or just overall life- you can overcome whatever you are facing with the right tools , skills and support.
However, what I can do is stand with you in your pain while we get through it together! I can guarantee you that I will provide you with professional counseling without judgment but with empathy and compassion .
Ever felt alone, rejected or misunderstood? Or simply just felt overwhelmed with many obstacles coming at once? If you have, you are not the only one, nor are you in this by yourself. In fact, I believe that it is my duty and my obligation to give you support and help you realize that there is a way to get your life back, to become a better you! Regardless if it is addiction, depression, anxiety or just overall life- you can overcome whatever you are facing with the right tools , skills and support.
(984) 207-3267 View (984) 207-3267
Photo of Susan Patricia Intemann, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Patricia Intemann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I welcome you. I have been a Psychotherapist in private practice for over tow decvades. I am confident I can help you overcome adversity, expand your self-awareness and self-acceptance, and truly achieve lasting changes in your life. I am passionate about supporting individuals with trauma, chronic pain, and/or illness, as we explore the multifaceted issues surrounding your circumstances. My emphasis is on the mind-body connection. These issues can cause physical and emotional challenges and together we will develop a plan to address the challenges in your life. Currently, EMDR and biofeedback is offered through telehealth.
I welcome you. I have been a Psychotherapist in private practice for over tow decvades. I am confident I can help you overcome adversity, expand your self-awareness and self-acceptance, and truly achieve lasting changes in your life. I am passionate about supporting individuals with trauma, chronic pain, and/or illness, as we explore the multifaceted issues surrounding your circumstances. My emphasis is on the mind-body connection. These issues can cause physical and emotional challenges and together we will develop a plan to address the challenges in your life. Currently, EMDR and biofeedback is offered through telehealth.
(919) 648-0229 View (919) 648-0229
Photo of Barbara Jean Lowe, PhD, LP, BCC, SEP, Psychologist
Barbara Jean Lowe
Psychologist, PhD, LP, BCC, SEP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Are you hurting, frustrated, or feel stuck? I honor your courage to seek wholeness & growth. I know you want relief. Enduring change through therapy can happen for you. Trauma, relationship challenges, family struggles & internal pain can be shifted! I welcome you into a space of honor, hope, safety, & power to change. I partner w/ you to achieve your goals for skillful living, belonging, & wholeness. I artfully employ therapeutic & scientific techniques that bring wellness to the heart & mind (SE, DBT, ART, CBT, IFS, EMDR, Gottman, EFT). Ages 5-75. I also offer faith integration upon request. I offer hourly sessions & intensives.
Are you hurting, frustrated, or feel stuck? I honor your courage to seek wholeness & growth. I know you want relief. Enduring change through therapy can happen for you. Trauma, relationship challenges, family struggles & internal pain can be shifted! I welcome you into a space of honor, hope, safety, & power to change. I partner w/ you to achieve your goals for skillful living, belonging, & wholeness. I artfully employ therapeutic & scientific techniques that bring wellness to the heart & mind (SE, DBT, ART, CBT, IFS, EMDR, Gottman, EFT). Ages 5-75. I also offer faith integration upon request. I offer hourly sessions & intensives.
(919) 585-1575 View (919) 585-1575
Photo of Becky Shaffer, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Becky Shaffer
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Life is not always easy, but I believe we all have the strength within us to grow, adapt, and heal. My goal is to create a safe space for you to uncover your own resilience and cultivate a sense of meaning and purpose in this life. I primarily work with adults of all ages facing a variety of concerns such as: anxiety, panic, mild-to-moderate depression, grief and loss, OCD, chronic and terminal physical illness, relational/family stressors, and difficulties related to addiction. I am able to integrate faith and spirituality into counseling if so desired.
Life is not always easy, but I believe we all have the strength within us to grow, adapt, and heal. My goal is to create a safe space for you to uncover your own resilience and cultivate a sense of meaning and purpose in this life. I primarily work with adults of all ages facing a variety of concerns such as: anxiety, panic, mild-to-moderate depression, grief and loss, OCD, chronic and terminal physical illness, relational/family stressors, and difficulties related to addiction. I am able to integrate faith and spirituality into counseling if so desired.
(919) 679-9515 View (919) 679-9515
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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.