Chronic Pain Therapists in Salisbury, NC

Photo of Pamala T Love, PhD, LCSW, TF-CBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamala T Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salisbury, NC 28144  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Research shows the benefits of therapy last longer than medication alone. People struggling with emotional difficulties, life challenges, and mental health concerns should look for a counselor or therapist to help them. Let's talk and see if I am a good fit for you. Locate my appointment calendars by going straight to https://headway.co/providers/pamala-love?fbclid=IwAR2wMrsWuYS7w2mMXE-dK5Q76ZKhGFH7Zdkw1hecNaX3ndL59eGQWo8QFi8 for NC and https://www.pathmentalhealth.com/providers/GA/1396892055-pamala-love for GA.
Research shows the benefits of therapy last longer than medication alone. People struggling with emotional difficulties, life challenges, and mental health concerns should look for a counselor or therapist to help them. Let's talk and see if I am a good fit for you. Locate my appointment calendars by going straight to https://headway.co/providers/pamala-love?fbclid=IwAR2wMrsWuYS7w2mMXE-dK5Q76ZKhGFH7Zdkw1hecNaX3ndL59eGQWo8QFi8 for NC and https://www.pathmentalhealth.com/providers/GA/1396892055-pamala-love for GA.
(910) 541-9114 View (910) 541-9114
Photo of Sarah Bolme, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Bolme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salisbury, NC 28145
I have over 25 years of experience as a psychotherapist helping people get unstuck and relate better to themselves and others so that each one can become the best version of themselves. I am person-centered—meaning that you, the client, are in charge of the process of change. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety and mood disorders, but work with a variety of issues including grief, divorce, and relationship problems. I use a mixture of therapeutic interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness to assist you in making the changes you desire.
I have over 25 years of experience as a psychotherapist helping people get unstuck and relate better to themselves and others so that each one can become the best version of themselves. I am person-centered—meaning that you, the client, are in charge of the process of change. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety and mood disorders, but work with a variety of issues including grief, divorce, and relationship problems. I use a mixture of therapeutic interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness to assist you in making the changes you desire.
(704) 585-7855 View (704) 585-7855
Photo of Jefferson Mccombs, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jefferson Mccombs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Salisbury, NC 28144
My ideal client would be a person who is motivated for change, however one of my main specialties is the ablilty to work with unmotivated and even hostile clients who have been court ordered or adolescents who are forced to come by their parents. I can work with a client on a myriad of issues including anixiety, depression, low self-esteem, complusions and addictions.
My ideal client would be a person who is motivated for change, however one of my main specialties is the ablilty to work with unmotivated and even hostile clients who have been court ordered or adolescents who are forced to come by their parents. I can work with a client on a myriad of issues including anixiety, depression, low self-esteem, complusions and addictions.
(704) 751-4949 View (704) 751-4949
Photo of William (Stacey) Steck, MDiv, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
William (Stacey) Steck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA
Verified Verified
Salisbury, NC 28144
We may not like to admit it, but sometimes we just need help in sorting out our thoughts, feelings, relationships, and problems. Hey, if you could have "fixed" yourself on your own, you wouldn't be here looking for a therapist! With more than twenty years of experience as a pastor to complement my practice of therapy, I have seen how individuals of all ages, couples of all types, and families of all shapes and sizes both endure and solve problems, as well as how just a little effort can go a long way. The important thing for you to know is that there's nothing inherently wrong with you; you just need a little help working it out.
We may not like to admit it, but sometimes we just need help in sorting out our thoughts, feelings, relationships, and problems. Hey, if you could have "fixed" yourself on your own, you wouldn't be here looking for a therapist! With more than twenty years of experience as a pastor to complement my practice of therapy, I have seen how individuals of all ages, couples of all types, and families of all shapes and sizes both endure and solve problems, as well as how just a little effort can go a long way. The important thing for you to know is that there's nothing inherently wrong with you; you just need a little help working it out.
(704) 327-0562 View (704) 327-0562
Photo of Kathryn Grimsley, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Grimsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salisbury, NC 28144
I’m SO glad you're here, you are very brave for taking this step! I have 12 years of experience providing individual, couples, & family therapies. My ideal clients are those who realize their capability for change & who are willing to do the work necessary for change. I ask also for willingness - therapy does not work without it. I want to develop a partnership with you, one based on trust, boundaries, mutual respect, and validation. Please be encouraged that you don't have to "do life" alone. It's time to do something different & that time is now! It's time to stop simply surviving & time to start thriving. Let's do this together!
I’m SO glad you're here, you are very brave for taking this step! I have 12 years of experience providing individual, couples, & family therapies. My ideal clients are those who realize their capability for change & who are willing to do the work necessary for change. I ask also for willingness - therapy does not work without it. I want to develop a partnership with you, one based on trust, boundaries, mutual respect, and validation. Please be encouraged that you don't have to "do life" alone. It's time to do something different & that time is now! It's time to stop simply surviving & time to start thriving. Let's do this together!
(704) 703-2640 View (704) 703-2640

Online Therapists

Photo of Nancy Waring, PhD, Psychologist
Nancy Waring
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
I also specialize in working with chronic illness issues, singleness and career counseling.
I work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, a wide range of relationship issues (including marital, pre-marital, divorce and singleness), chronic illness, grief and also offer career assessment and counseling. I combine a practical, problem solving approach with a focus on the client's emotional and family history to facilitate greater insight for the client as we collaborate to bring balance and wholeness to that client's life. In my many years of practice, I have been on staff at a university counseling center, a large private practice and currently am with a ministry-based counseling center.
I also specialize in working with chronic illness issues, singleness and career counseling.
I work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, a wide range of relationship issues (including marital, pre-marital, divorce and singleness), chronic illness, grief and also offer career assessment and counseling. I combine a practical, problem solving approach with a focus on the client's emotional and family history to facilitate greater insight for the client as we collaborate to bring balance and wholeness to that client's life. In my many years of practice, I have been on staff at a university counseling center, a large private practice and currently am with a ministry-based counseling center.
(704) 727-4277 x3052 View (704) 727-4277 x3052
Photo of Meg Barry, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meg Barry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27712
Waitlist for new clients
Approximate 10-12 Month Waitlist: You are inherently good! I am a trauma therapist whose approach is integrative and honors each client’s unique emotional system. I believe that creating safety in client-counselor relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. I greet each client with warmth, understanding, and non-judgement, drawing mindfulness and somatic approaches to bring more authenticity and wholeness in my clients' lives. I am passionate about working with adults with a history of trauma, attachment trauma, codependency, relationship issues, C-PTSD and auto-immune/ chronic pain. Licensed in North Carolina and Virginia.
Approximate 10-12 Month Waitlist: You are inherently good! I am a trauma therapist whose approach is integrative and honors each client’s unique emotional system. I believe that creating safety in client-counselor relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. I greet each client with warmth, understanding, and non-judgement, drawing mindfulness and somatic approaches to bring more authenticity and wholeness in my clients' lives. I am passionate about working with adults with a history of trauma, attachment trauma, codependency, relationship issues, C-PTSD and auto-immune/ chronic pain. Licensed in North Carolina and Virginia.
(919) 726-0565 View (919) 726-0565
Photo of Sara Koenig - Triangle Wellness and Recovery PLLC
Triangle Wellness and Recovery PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513
Our team takes an integrative, cross-disciplinary approach to whole-person wellness and recovery. The clients we work with struggle with a broad range of physical and mental health symptoms and conditions including anxiety and mood disorders, depression and bipolar depression, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, chronic pain, substance or alcohol abuse, compulsive behaviors, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. We tailor your treatment plan to start where you are right now and help you build a meaningful, satisfying life that is unique to your personal goals and desires.
Our team takes an integrative, cross-disciplinary approach to whole-person wellness and recovery. The clients we work with struggle with a broad range of physical and mental health symptoms and conditions including anxiety and mood disorders, depression and bipolar depression, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, chronic pain, substance or alcohol abuse, compulsive behaviors, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. We tailor your treatment plan to start where you are right now and help you build a meaningful, satisfying life that is unique to your personal goals and desires.
(984) 205-8011 View (984) 205-8011
Photo of Vatara Scott - CRAFT Counseling & Consultation Services, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
CRAFT Counseling & Consultation Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
"Healing is not the absence of the storm. Healing is the way we ride it." In life, each of us may face storms that test our resilience and spirit. Whether you come from a diverse background or any other, these challenges can feel overwhelming and isolating. Finding a haven of understanding and support is essential - You are not meant to navigate this journey alone. As a dedicated LCSW with over 9 years of expertise, I've been privileged to support individuals through their most challenging times - be it depression, anxiety, grief, chronic pain/ illness, or life transitions.
"Healing is not the absence of the storm. Healing is the way we ride it." In life, each of us may face storms that test our resilience and spirit. Whether you come from a diverse background or any other, these challenges can feel overwhelming and isolating. Finding a haven of understanding and support is essential - You are not meant to navigate this journey alone. As a dedicated LCSW with over 9 years of expertise, I've been privileged to support individuals through their most challenging times - be it depression, anxiety, grief, chronic pain/ illness, or life transitions.
(919) 849-3364 View (919) 849-3364
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 Jasmine Cope, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasmine Cope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27539  (Online Only)
With compassion and understanding you can sit with pain, distress or contemplate hard decisions to reach balance, fulfillment and peace.
You've already taken the first step by being here. Yes, together we can make things better. This space holds no judgment, no assumptions. Just down to earth, human to human help.
With compassion and understanding you can sit with pain, distress or contemplate hard decisions to reach balance, fulfillment and peace.
You've already taken the first step by being here. Yes, together we can make things better. This space holds no judgment, no assumptions. Just down to earth, human to human help.
View
Photo of Mary Cottam Keever, LCSW, CHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Cottam Keever
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHC
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27265
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
(336) 916-9181 View (336) 916-9181
Photo of Kristin Kirk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Kirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
(704) 237-0421 View (704) 237-0421
Photo of Carey Downey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carey Downey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Waitlist for 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 Amelia Kelley, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR,  RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amelia Kelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR, RYT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Brainspotting, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. We specialize in treating addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, family discord, school issues, chronic pain and stress, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Brainspotting, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. We specialize in treating addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, family discord, school issues, chronic pain and stress, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
(919) 794-8350 View (919) 794-8350
Photo of Denise Mcknight, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Mcknight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28208  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges like grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, or the effects of domestic violence. They seek a safe, supportive space to explore their emotions and develop coping strategies. Their goals include healing, building resilience, and gaining control of their mental health. They want to better understand their emotions, improve relationships, and regain balance. As a therapist, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care, empowering them to overcome obstacles and achieve meaningful change.
My ideal client is someone navigating challenges like grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, or the effects of domestic violence. They seek a safe, supportive space to explore their emotions and develop coping strategies. Their goals include healing, building resilience, and gaining control of their mental health. They want to better understand their emotions, improve relationships, and regain balance. As a therapist, I provide compassionate, evidence-based care, empowering them to overcome obstacles and achieve meaningful change.
(980) 247-4588 View (980) 247-4588
Photo of Azleena Azhar, LCSWA, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Azleena Azhar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
Are you trapped in a relationship with a narcissistic partner? Are you facing major life transitions, like coping with chronic illness, grief, and loss? Do you have a child or teen who is constantly struggling at home and at school? You are taking the right step by getting help! It took a lot of courage to overcome the stigma and reach this point. You don't have to walk alone. By tackling the issues together we can overcome the barriers of honor and shame.
Are you trapped in a relationship with a narcissistic partner? Are you facing major life transitions, like coping with chronic illness, grief, and loss? Do you have a child or teen who is constantly struggling at home and at school? You are taking the right step by getting help! It took a lot of courage to overcome the stigma and reach this point. You don't have to walk alone. By tackling the issues together we can overcome the barriers of honor and shame.
(919) 298-8107 View (919) 298-8107
Photo of Anita Bhat, PsyD, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Anita Bhat
Counselor, PsyD, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
If you are in need of trauma healing from the past and present, I am the therapist for you! " Pain is inevitable but suffering is optional." Pain is a part of life but it does not have to rule your life. Suffering is not a part of life. We do it to ourselves by allowing our pain to take over our lives. You don't have to sit alone with your pain and suffer. I am a deeply empathetic and effective therapist. Trauma should not be a life sentence for anyone. I am trained in the best techniques using hypnotherapy and mind-body healing to resolve PTSD, trauma and other conditions powerfully, rapidly and effectively using the subconscious
If you are in need of trauma healing from the past and present, I am the therapist for you! " Pain is inevitable but suffering is optional." Pain is a part of life but it does not have to rule your life. Suffering is not a part of life. We do it to ourselves by allowing our pain to take over our lives. You don't have to sit alone with your pain and suffer. I am a deeply empathetic and effective therapist. Trauma should not be a life sentence for anyone. I am trained in the best techniques using hypnotherapy and mind-body healing to resolve PTSD, trauma and other conditions powerfully, rapidly and effectively using the subconscious
(984) 205-6585 View (984) 205-6585
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
Photo of Lisa Trahan, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa Trahan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
Hello, and welcome. I'm glad you're here. You may be wondering what therapy is like and whether I would be a good fit for your specific needs. Broadly, my specialties include the treatment of anxiety and depression in adults. My clients also seek guidance on coping well with the psychological aspects of living with a chronic health condition, including cancer, chronic pain, and diabetes. Grief and loss may also be a focus of treatment. You can expect an initial evaluation and feedback. We will collaborate on goals for treatment and discuss approaches we can take to meet your goals.
Hello, and welcome. I'm glad you're here. You may be wondering what therapy is like and whether I would be a good fit for your specific needs. Broadly, my specialties include the treatment of anxiety and depression in adults. My clients also seek guidance on coping well with the psychological aspects of living with a chronic health condition, including cancer, chronic pain, and diabetes. Grief and loss may also be a focus of treatment. You can expect an initial evaluation and feedback. We will collaborate on goals for treatment and discuss approaches we can take to meet your goals.
(828) 330-9352 View (828) 330-9352
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.