Chronic Pain Therapists in Cranbury, NJ
![Photo of Bob DiCuio, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77246d94-9c88-471b-8bc5-eedb10bd4578/1/320x400.jpeg)
I focus on how I can help you achieve more in your life & career. My clients often identify the following problems: * Work stress * Feeling like a fraud at work * Frustration caused by relationship problems @ home or work * Depression which is hard to overcome * Compulsive, addictive behaviors that are causing health problems * Anxiety, panic attacks * Anger issues which are interfering with family & work relationships * Physical pain that is intensified by an inability to cope.
I focus on how I can help you achieve more in your life & career. My clients often identify the following problems: * Work stress * Feeling like a fraud at work * Frustration caused by relationship problems @ home or work * Depression which is hard to overcome * Compulsive, addictive behaviors that are causing health problems * Anxiety, panic attacks * Anger issues which are interfering with family & work relationships * Physical pain that is intensified by an inability to cope.
![Photo of Geoffrey White - Cranbury Therapy LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b5f7f1c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
In my professional work I have learned to empathize deeply and to make observations and interpretations based on years of accumulated clinical knowledge and experience. While my professional training has been invaluable, my clients (and my colleagues, too) have been the most extraordinary teachers of life and healing. Through my work I have learned to be more open and compassionate and more fully human. This enables me to be a more effective facilitator in the healing process of psychotherapy. It is always a privilege to do emotional healing work with another human being--both of us are enriched.
In my professional work I have learned to empathize deeply and to make observations and interpretations based on years of accumulated clinical knowledge and experience. While my professional training has been invaluable, my clients (and my colleagues, too) have been the most extraordinary teachers of life and healing. Through my work I have learned to be more open and compassionate and more fully human. This enables me to be a more effective facilitator in the healing process of psychotherapy. It is always a privilege to do emotional healing work with another human being--both of us are enriched.
![Photo of Lynne Zelch Butan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f12da0b-777b-4252-8a77-10a49f6ded68/2/320x400.png)
I am a Columbia University trained licensed social worker who has been in private practice since 2007. Throughout my development and training as a clinician, my priority has been to maintain a fresh and open empathic approach to helping individuals and couples. My ideal goal is to establish rapport and connect with others, so that they can ultimately help themselves. I value a safe, comfortable meeting space where people can relax and be themselves, so that they can feel better as soon as possible.
I am a Columbia University trained licensed social worker who has been in private practice since 2007. Throughout my development and training as a clinician, my priority has been to maintain a fresh and open empathic approach to helping individuals and couples. My ideal goal is to establish rapport and connect with others, so that they can ultimately help themselves. I value a safe, comfortable meeting space where people can relax and be themselves, so that they can feel better as soon as possible.
Marie Kifun Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCN, QEEGD
Verified Verified
Cranbury, NJ 08512
I work with adults, couples, children and adolescents combining a variety of approaches including talk therapy and neurotherapy. I emphasize the value of our relationship, building trust by listening and understanding your needs. Treatment is geared to removing barriers that prevent you from having a meaningful life, developing the skills to support your journey towards healing and free you from negative emotions such as guilt, shame, fear, anxiety and anger. Through a process of self- exploration, problem solving, skills development, you can learn to overcome obstacles, clarify your values and reach your goals..
I work with adults, couples, children and adolescents combining a variety of approaches including talk therapy and neurotherapy. I emphasize the value of our relationship, building trust by listening and understanding your needs. Treatment is geared to removing barriers that prevent you from having a meaningful life, developing the skills to support your journey towards healing and free you from negative emotions such as guilt, shame, fear, anxiety and anger. Through a process of self- exploration, problem solving, skills development, you can learn to overcome obstacles, clarify your values and reach your goals..
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Leah Kremer, CHT, MSNH, REV, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c66391e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
The purpose of hypnosis as a therapeutic technique is to help you understand and gain more control over your behavior, emotions or physical well-being. I been successfully helping people for 20 years to overcome anxiety, pain, and addictions. Hypnotherapy is helpful to improve your performances and to have a better life.
The purpose of hypnosis as a therapeutic technique is to help you understand and gain more control over your behavior, emotions or physical well-being. I been successfully helping people for 20 years to overcome anxiety, pain, and addictions. Hypnotherapy is helpful to improve your performances and to have a better life.
![Photo of Courtney Gable, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/487c7d6c-3637-4bd8-8b52-fdfca1ca59cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney Gable
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
My inclusive work focuses on: Helping people to feel regulated and empowered, and to feel seen, safe, and valued for who they are in our process together; those struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety; chronic pain, grief and loss, phobias, racing thoughts, crossroads and upheaval; as well as Body Image, with a specific focus on Body Neutrality and Health At Every Size (HAES) – all with mindfulness, compassion, and acceptance.
My inclusive work focuses on: Helping people to feel regulated and empowered, and to feel seen, safe, and valued for who they are in our process together; those struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety; chronic pain, grief and loss, phobias, racing thoughts, crossroads and upheaval; as well as Body Image, with a specific focus on Body Neutrality and Health At Every Size (HAES) – all with mindfulness, compassion, and acceptance.
![Photo of Lauren M Fussner - Lauren M Fussner, PhD, MA, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b0a1400-ca59-4c33-a454-b63498f78f83/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Fussner is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in working with children with a variety of health challenges and medical conditions such as toileting difficulties (e.g., constipation, frequent accidents), feeding concerns (e.g., selective eating, food allergies), and chronic/persistent pain (e.g., abdominal pain, migraines). Dr. Fussner utilizes a warm and supportive approach to intervention and works collaboratively with families to develop targeted treatment plans promoting improved coping and enhanced quality of life.
Dr. Fussner is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in working with children with a variety of health challenges and medical conditions such as toileting difficulties (e.g., constipation, frequent accidents), feeding concerns (e.g., selective eating, food allergies), and chronic/persistent pain (e.g., abdominal pain, migraines). Dr. Fussner utilizes a warm and supportive approach to intervention and works collaboratively with families to develop targeted treatment plans promoting improved coping and enhanced quality of life.
![Photo of Elana Kirsch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c64ae1c-908b-401c-8d83-8d4df601c88f/4/320x400.jpeg)
Elana Kirsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540 (Online Only)
My practice is called Moon View Therapy and I work with individuals, couples and families in New York and New Jersey. My expertise is in working with those experiencing anxiety and depression, PTSD, chronic pain, and relationship transitions.
My practice is called Moon View Therapy and I work with individuals, couples and families in New York and New Jersey. My expertise is in working with those experiencing anxiety and depression, PTSD, chronic pain, and relationship transitions.
![Photo of Tracey L Post - The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30c0aed4-d4d8-4c03-bb58-238bb405c08d/2/320x400.png)
The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
We specialize in treating depression and anxiety; addiction; issues with sexuality; chronic health issues and pain; familial, romantic, and other interpersonal relationships; and intersectionally aware, trauma-informed care for marginalized people— with special attention given to individuals belonging to the BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and survivor communities.
The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing prioritizes holistic healing and walking with you to grow your best self: mind, body and soul. Our clinicians work on a wide range of issues with a wide range of therapeutic techniques, self-care tools and clinical styles. We offer traditional and non-traditional outpatient services for individuals, couples, and families of all forms and fashions including office and nature sessions, walking sessions, video, text and telephone. We believe in affirming & celebrating all people for who you truly are.
We specialize in treating depression and anxiety; addiction; issues with sexuality; chronic health issues and pain; familial, romantic, and other interpersonal relationships; and intersectionally aware, trauma-informed care for marginalized people— with special attention given to individuals belonging to the BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and survivor communities.
The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing prioritizes holistic healing and walking with you to grow your best self: mind, body and soul. Our clinicians work on a wide range of issues with a wide range of therapeutic techniques, self-care tools and clinical styles. We offer traditional and non-traditional outpatient services for individuals, couples, and families of all forms and fashions including office and nature sessions, walking sessions, video, text and telephone. We believe in affirming & celebrating all people for who you truly are.
![Photo of Elisa Acosta, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5369c679-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elisa Acosta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spotswood, NJ 08884 (Online Only)
What do we get from therapy? We must get something, correct? The answer is not straightforward or simple, since each of us will have to assemble or even invent that answer ourselves. In therapy, an encounter emerges, a space, a singular one energized by the need we have to feel better. An encounter with words, sentences, signifiers, even memories that will help us approach the pain. Yes, the emotional pain that at this time is not letting you live at your fullest.
What do we get from therapy? We must get something, correct? The answer is not straightforward or simple, since each of us will have to assemble or even invent that answer ourselves. In therapy, an encounter emerges, a space, a singular one energized by the need we have to feel better. An encounter with words, sentences, signifiers, even memories that will help us approach the pain. Yes, the emotional pain that at this time is not letting you live at your fullest.
![Photo of Norbert A Wetzel, ThD, MFT, licphi, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf6301b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am assisting couples (of any ethnic or racial background, gender identity, or sexual orientation) to preserve intimacy and satisfaction during a lifetime together, even after infidelity; I am assisting families to weather the storms of adolescence and to maintain familial closeness; I am accompanying people diagnosed with "mental illness" or addiction on their journey back to wholeness and well being. I welcoming victims of trauma and racial oppression. I am available for phone consultations before or between sessions. I do assessments for immigration and prison release purposes and serve as expert in complex custody trials.
I am assisting couples (of any ethnic or racial background, gender identity, or sexual orientation) to preserve intimacy and satisfaction during a lifetime together, even after infidelity; I am assisting families to weather the storms of adolescence and to maintain familial closeness; I am accompanying people diagnosed with "mental illness" or addiction on their journey back to wholeness and well being. I welcoming victims of trauma and racial oppression. I am available for phone consultations before or between sessions. I do assessments for immigration and prison release purposes and serve as expert in complex custody trials.
![Photo of Leigh Goldman - Leigh Goldman, LCSW, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/401c0c30-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Leigh Goldman, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Monroe Township, NJ 08831
I am also available to provide support with those struggling with a loved one's mental or physical illness in a supportive environment.
I am a LCSW with 20+ years of experience, which has allowed me the privilege of providing services to adolescents and adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and coping skills. I strongly believe in finding the strengths within you, as to help in the process of change. My goal is to develop a therapeutic relationship in which you can have a safe place to work through meaningful solution oriented changes. My clients have benefited from various treatment approaches that are individualized to your needs. I look forward to the opportunity to help through your personal journey of change.
I am also available to provide support with those struggling with a loved one's mental or physical illness in a supportive environment.
I am a LCSW with 20+ years of experience, which has allowed me the privilege of providing services to adolescents and adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and coping skills. I strongly believe in finding the strengths within you, as to help in the process of change. My goal is to develop a therapeutic relationship in which you can have a safe place to work through meaningful solution oriented changes. My clients have benefited from various treatment approaches that are individualized to your needs. I look forward to the opportunity to help through your personal journey of change.
![Photo of Stephen E Horgan - Horgan & Saling Counseling Services LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c1bf0ce-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Horgan & Saling Counseling Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I have extensive experience working with: Depression and anxiety, addictions, relationship difficulties, sexual issues, adults with stressful life-circumstances, those coping with aging family members, survivors of childhood abuse, veterans, rescue workers, medical trauma survivors and those living with a debilitating or terminal illness.
Are you not feeling or functioning the way you used to? Are you having trouble explaining what you're feeling to others? Has someone told you that you could use some help and support? I am helpful with the process of entering therapy because I respect the significance of that decision and see it as an opportunity for positive change.
I have extensive experience working with: Depression and anxiety, addictions, relationship difficulties, sexual issues, adults with stressful life-circumstances, those coping with aging family members, survivors of childhood abuse, veterans, rescue workers, medical trauma survivors and those living with a debilitating or terminal illness.
Are you not feeling or functioning the way you used to? Are you having trouble explaining what you're feeling to others? Has someone told you that you could use some help and support? I am helpful with the process of entering therapy because I respect the significance of that decision and see it as an opportunity for positive change.
![Photo of Marsha N. Shapiro, MSW, LCSW, BCD, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd153d7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Marsha N. Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD, LLC
Verified Verified
Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852 (Online Only)
I offer respectful, affirmative treatment in a safe, comfortable environment. Establishing a trusting, caring relationship with the people I work with is of the utmost importance to me. I see Children, Adolescents and Adults. Depression and other Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Phobias, PTSD, Relationships, Parenting, Separation/Divorce, Adult Survivors of Incest/Sexual Abuse, Sexuality, Women's and LGBTQ issues, Stress and Anger Management, Loss/ Bereavement, Eating and other Compulsive Disorders, Learning/DevelopmentalChallenges and Acute/Chronic Illness, Life Coaching and Individual Consultation Services are my areas of specialization.
I offer respectful, affirmative treatment in a safe, comfortable environment. Establishing a trusting, caring relationship with the people I work with is of the utmost importance to me. I see Children, Adolescents and Adults. Depression and other Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Phobias, PTSD, Relationships, Parenting, Separation/Divorce, Adult Survivors of Incest/Sexual Abuse, Sexuality, Women's and LGBTQ issues, Stress and Anger Management, Loss/ Bereavement, Eating and other Compulsive Disorders, Learning/DevelopmentalChallenges and Acute/Chronic Illness, Life Coaching and Individual Consultation Services are my areas of specialization.
![Photo of Fidel Loverton - Psychotherapy; Addiction; Psychological Counseling, LCADC, LPC, CRS, FAPA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3da98431-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Psychotherapy; Addiction; Psychological Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC, LPC, CRS, FAPA
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Practices that include modalities with Eclectic theoretical orientation. Counseling everyone regardless of background purely on presenting health issues. Using integrative approach to whole person restoration of functioning. Mindfulness, Cognitive,Logotherapy, Motivational Interviewing. Transfigurative Hypnotherapy is strictly for pain management, sleep disorder, anxiety and relaxation. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). We proudly embrace the ethical values of the APA, AACC, ACA and NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors) that respectively advice counselor to practice within their competencies (training).
Practices that include modalities with Eclectic theoretical orientation. Counseling everyone regardless of background purely on presenting health issues. Using integrative approach to whole person restoration of functioning. Mindfulness, Cognitive,Logotherapy, Motivational Interviewing. Transfigurative Hypnotherapy is strictly for pain management, sleep disorder, anxiety and relaxation. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). We proudly embrace the ethical values of the APA, AACC, ACA and NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors) that respectively advice counselor to practice within their competencies (training).
![Photo of Leslie Richmand, LCSW, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3db56201-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leslie Richmand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainsboro, NJ 08536
I am a licensed clinical social worker in private practice for over 30 years. I have particular expertise in treating eating disorders and adolescent issues but also work with all ages seeking help for a variety of issues which includes depression, anxiety, self harm, oppositional disorder, trauma, chronic pain and divorce as well as school, family and work related stress. I see individuals, couples and families in my practice. I offer weekday, evening and Saturday appointments.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in private practice for over 30 years. I have particular expertise in treating eating disorders and adolescent issues but also work with all ages seeking help for a variety of issues which includes depression, anxiety, self harm, oppositional disorder, trauma, chronic pain and divorce as well as school, family and work related stress. I see individuals, couples and families in my practice. I offer weekday, evening and Saturday appointments.
![Photo of Sharon Sarno, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5047156e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The pain of grief can completely disrupt your life making it difficult to sleep, eat or even think.
OFFERING TELEHEALTH SESSION. Have you ever thought of change as loss? Even positive change can trigger loss, like starting a new job, graduation or moving into a new home. When we move forward, we leave something behind. Adjust. Readjust. Grief is normal and is an entire emotional process of coping with a loss. Are you struggling with a stressful life transition, depression, anxiety, illness, divorce, work/life imbalance, loss of a pet, an empty nest, unsatisfying relationships? I would like to help you manage your struggles, learn self care and find your inner strength. The grief process doesn’t look or feel the same for anyone.
The pain of grief can completely disrupt your life making it difficult to sleep, eat or even think.
OFFERING TELEHEALTH SESSION. Have you ever thought of change as loss? Even positive change can trigger loss, like starting a new job, graduation or moving into a new home. When we move forward, we leave something behind. Adjust. Readjust. Grief is normal and is an entire emotional process of coping with a loss. Are you struggling with a stressful life transition, depression, anxiety, illness, divorce, work/life imbalance, loss of a pet, an empty nest, unsatisfying relationships? I would like to help you manage your struggles, learn self care and find your inner strength. The grief process doesn’t look or feel the same for anyone.
![Photo of Paul M Lehrer, PhD, BCB, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b9edf12-7502-4fdf-a2e1-abddc318d8b8/3/320x400.jpeg)
You may have had feelings of pain, jitteriness, anxiety, sleep or appetite problems, heart pounding, breathng problems, or depressed mood.
Are you an adult with symptoms of anxiety, performance issues, depression, stress-related physical problems, and/or obsessive compulsive symptoms? These all involve a complicated intertwining of cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and physiological components. Are you looking for someone who can find ways to systematically approach each of these, consistent with your personality, upbringing, environment, and life's circumstances? Are you looking to learn something from each session, and feel confident your problems are better understood and have improved?
You may have had feelings of pain, jitteriness, anxiety, sleep or appetite problems, heart pounding, breathng problems, or depressed mood.
Are you an adult with symptoms of anxiety, performance issues, depression, stress-related physical problems, and/or obsessive compulsive symptoms? These all involve a complicated intertwining of cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and physiological components. Are you looking for someone who can find ways to systematically approach each of these, consistent with your personality, upbringing, environment, and life's circumstances? Are you looking to learn something from each session, and feel confident your problems are better understood and have improved?
![Photo of Shamila Malik, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fdcf838-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shamila Malik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kendall Park, NJ 08824
My areas of specialization include older adults, persons with chronic illness and caregivers.
Whether you are dealing with the loss of a loved one, coping with an illness or disability, struggling with caregiver stress or adjusting to a life transition, my customized approach to psychotherapy can help you move forward to a brighter path. I offer an eclectic approach to psychotherapy, drawing upon a variety of different techniques to help you identify your goals and achieve a better quality of life.
My areas of specialization include older adults, persons with chronic illness and caregivers.
Whether you are dealing with the loss of a loved one, coping with an illness or disability, struggling with caregiver stress or adjusting to a life transition, my customized approach to psychotherapy can help you move forward to a brighter path. I offer an eclectic approach to psychotherapy, drawing upon a variety of different techniques to help you identify your goals and achieve a better quality of life.
![Photo of Amanda Cusa, MSW, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5132b5f0-7d10-4218-8f01-24596cb7b2a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
My specialties include working with adolescents and adult that are experiencing one of the following: life transitions that are difficult to cope with, trauma, chronic illness/ pain, anxiety, depression, existential and stage-of-life issues, and stress that has been difficult to manage on your own.
I believe strongly that we all have the capacity for positive change, no matter where we start out. Therapy should provide a warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental space in which clients can explore new goals, solutions, and ways of being. I seek to empower clients by fostering greater awareness and understanding of their thoughts, behaviors, environments, and interpersonal patterns. My approach is tailored to each person and their needs, but often incorporates concepts from Cognitive-Behavioral, Interpersonal, and Person-Centered therapies, as well as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques.
My specialties include working with adolescents and adult that are experiencing one of the following: life transitions that are difficult to cope with, trauma, chronic illness/ pain, anxiety, depression, existential and stage-of-life issues, and stress that has been difficult to manage on your own.
I believe strongly that we all have the capacity for positive change, no matter where we start out. Therapy should provide a warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental space in which clients can explore new goals, solutions, and ways of being. I seek to empower clients by fostering greater awareness and understanding of their thoughts, behaviors, environments, and interpersonal patterns. My approach is tailored to each person and their needs, but often incorporates concepts from Cognitive-Behavioral, Interpersonal, and Person-Centered therapies, as well as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques.
See more therapy options for Cranbury
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Cranbury
- East Brunswick
- East Windsor
- Kendall Park
- Manalapan
- Monmouth Junction
- Monroe Township
- Plainsboro
- Princeton
- Princeton Junction
- Robbinsville
- South Brunswick
- West Windsor
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.