Chronic Pain Therapists in Montclair, NJ

Photo of Brooke Myers Sorger, PhD, Psychologist
Brooke Myers Sorger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
She is specialty trained in the area of palliative care medicine with focus on chronic and potentially life threatening illness, death, and grief and the psychological ramifications for patients and their families.
Finding yourself is a profound process which has no end. Dr. Sorger invites you to join her in a search for your organic self. Do you wonder where the truest parts of yourself reside? Do you wonder how you became so bitter and broken down by a life that you intended to live quite differently? We are our conditioning and our defenses. As a result, we can learn new ways of being and unlearn old ways. Dr. Sorger believes that the teacher and the taught together create the teachings. Come and create the life that you have envisioned.
She is specialty trained in the area of palliative care medicine with focus on chronic and potentially life threatening illness, death, and grief and the psychological ramifications for patients and their families.
Finding yourself is a profound process which has no end. Dr. Sorger invites you to join her in a search for your organic self. Do you wonder where the truest parts of yourself reside? Do you wonder how you became so bitter and broken down by a life that you intended to live quite differently? We are our conditioning and our defenses. As a result, we can learn new ways of being and unlearn old ways. Dr. Sorger believes that the teacher and the taught together create the teachings. Come and create the life that you have envisioned.
(973) 797-9057 View (973) 797-9057
Photo of Christopher Mills - Music Therapy Montclair (Christopher Mills, MT-BC), MA, MT-BC
Music Therapy Montclair (Christopher Mills, MT-BC)
MA, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
At Music Therapy Montclair we specialize in mental health services for all ages, providing evidence-based creative arts interventions for individuals dealing with anxiety or depression, seeking alternatives to more traditional therapies, or in need of additional support. Our services also include therapies for medically complex children, adults and infants, individuals with chronic pain, bereaved children and adults, individuals with developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder or other sensory or communicative challenges, and expectant and new families in need of maternal or perinatal bonding and wellness support.
At Music Therapy Montclair we specialize in mental health services for all ages, providing evidence-based creative arts interventions for individuals dealing with anxiety or depression, seeking alternatives to more traditional therapies, or in need of additional support. Our services also include therapies for medically complex children, adults and infants, individuals with chronic pain, bereaved children and adults, individuals with developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder or other sensory or communicative challenges, and expectant and new families in need of maternal or perinatal bonding and wellness support.
(973) 878-0854 View (973) 878-0854
Photo of Beth DiBiase, LCSW, MSCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth DiBiase
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSCS
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I have 20 years of experience helping people and families living and struggling with chronic and severe illness.
Connecting with a caring, experienced therapist can unlock change. I can help you to identify patterns that keep you stuck in unsatisfying relationships, behaviors and images of yourself, which can give you more control over your life and help you to reach your full potential. The relationship that you and I will develop can help you to heal and move forward.
I have 20 years of experience helping people and families living and struggling with chronic and severe illness.
Connecting with a caring, experienced therapist can unlock change. I can help you to identify patterns that keep you stuck in unsatisfying relationships, behaviors and images of yourself, which can give you more control over your life and help you to reach your full potential. The relationship that you and I will develop can help you to heal and move forward.
(973) 358-7407 View (973) 358-7407
Photo of Timothy Bracaglia, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Timothy Bracaglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Handling complex issues of Sex, Gender, Relationships & Sexuality-related struggles; Anxiety, Stress & Depression; Substance Use & Related Issues... None of these is easy to navigate. Each stressors can be uniquely and incredibly difficult to manage thus causing pain, hopelessness, anxiety, & depression; often seemingly paralyzing. Thankfully, there is help, there is hope. You are not broken and together we can find your path. Please, call ( / leave a VM) or email me today. With my non-judgmental approach my only goal is to help you meet your own personal goals, to achieve your own vision of fulfillment; whatever that may look like.
Handling complex issues of Sex, Gender, Relationships & Sexuality-related struggles; Anxiety, Stress & Depression; Substance Use & Related Issues... None of these is easy to navigate. Each stressors can be uniquely and incredibly difficult to manage thus causing pain, hopelessness, anxiety, & depression; often seemingly paralyzing. Thankfully, there is help, there is hope. You are not broken and together we can find your path. Please, call ( / leave a VM) or email me today. With my non-judgmental approach my only goal is to help you meet your own personal goals, to achieve your own vision of fulfillment; whatever that may look like.
(732) 646-6754 View (732) 646-6754
Photo of Lori A Harris, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori A Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
People seek therapy for many reasons. Perhaps you are in a crisis, confronting a life transition (divorce, retirement, death, illness, empty nest, new relationship), having difficulty coping with work stress, using/abusing substances, or "feeling stuck" and unable to make positive life changes. I believe that most of us have blind spots - emotional patterns or behaviors that can get in the way of our healing or fully exploring life’s challenges and opportunities. My role is to provide clinical insight and guidance that is collaborative and respectful, supporting your unique journey toward recovery and growth.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Perhaps you are in a crisis, confronting a life transition (divorce, retirement, death, illness, empty nest, new relationship), having difficulty coping with work stress, using/abusing substances, or "feeling stuck" and unable to make positive life changes. I believe that most of us have blind spots - emotional patterns or behaviors that can get in the way of our healing or fully exploring life’s challenges and opportunities. My role is to provide clinical insight and guidance that is collaborative and respectful, supporting your unique journey toward recovery and growth.
(973) 528-1852 View (973) 528-1852
Photo of Clair L Goldberg, PsyD, BCN, Psychologist
Clair L Goldberg
Psychologist, PsyD, BCN
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I also offer Neurofeedback for the treatment of developmental trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, medication reduction, and to enhance meditation, performance enhancement, and mindfulness practices.
As a licensed psychologist with over twenty years of clinical experience, I believe that it is never too late to make significant and meaningful changes in our lives. By engaging in a warm therapeutic relationship, I help my clients to better understand their life situations, develop their unique strengths, and move towards living a more emotionally fulfilling and satisfying life. I enjoy a diverse practice, working with young adults and adults with a range of concerns and needs. More specifically, many of my clients struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, postpartum depression, life cycle transitions, and difficulties maintaining an intimate relationship.
I also offer Neurofeedback for the treatment of developmental trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, medication reduction, and to enhance meditation, performance enhancement, and mindfulness practices.
As a licensed psychologist with over twenty years of clinical experience, I believe that it is never too late to make significant and meaningful changes in our lives. By engaging in a warm therapeutic relationship, I help my clients to better understand their life situations, develop their unique strengths, and move towards living a more emotionally fulfilling and satisfying life. I enjoy a diverse practice, working with young adults and adults with a range of concerns and needs. More specifically, many of my clients struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, postpartum depression, life cycle transitions, and difficulties maintaining an intimate relationship.
(862) 621-9433 View (862) 621-9433
Photo of Kenneth Silvestri, EdD, CCH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kenneth Silvestri
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, CCH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I begin the collaboration with each person seeking my professional counsel by asking, "What is it you're not getting in your life that causes you pain?" Together, we explore the resources that will allow them to heal, change and grow. During the 30 years I have practiced psychotherapy, from a systemic or holistic perspective, I have assisted individuals, parents, couples, adolescents and caregivers to see and experience their lives differently.
I begin the collaboration with each person seeking my professional counsel by asking, "What is it you're not getting in your life that causes you pain?" Together, we explore the resources that will allow them to heal, change and grow. During the 30 years I have practiced psychotherapy, from a systemic or holistic perspective, I have assisted individuals, parents, couples, adolescents and caregivers to see and experience their lives differently.
(973) 928-8552 View (973) 928-8552
Photo of Lisa Weinberg, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa Weinberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
As a psychologist I work collaboratively with my clients to address their concerns (both in-person and via teleheath). I have extensive experience working from an interpersonal perspective with adolescents and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, trauma, loss and adjustment to life changes (e.g. illness, divorce). I believe it is important to explore how a client's family background, culture and social environment play a role in the challenges my clients are experiencing. I view people as resilient and help clients to use their strengths and resources to make positive changes in their lives.
As a psychologist I work collaboratively with my clients to address their concerns (both in-person and via teleheath). I have extensive experience working from an interpersonal perspective with adolescents and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, trauma, loss and adjustment to life changes (e.g. illness, divorce). I believe it is important to explore how a client's family background, culture and social environment play a role in the challenges my clients are experiencing. I view people as resilient and help clients to use their strengths and resources to make positive changes in their lives.
(973) 947-8883 View (973) 947-8883
Photo of Joseph A Chan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph A Chan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
48 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I have specialized training and experience in working with healthcare professionals, students (college, graduate, law, medical school), biracial/multiracial individuals, athletes, LGBTQ clients, survivors of sexual abuse and other trauma, law enforcement officers, chronic illness, and postpartum depression.
I have over 20 years of experience helping individuals cope with stress, loss, fear, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and adjustment to life changes. I work collaboratively with clients to establish a trusting and supportive relationship, set goals for therapy, build upon strengths to increase confidence and self-esteem, and work toward resolving issues.
I have specialized training and experience in working with healthcare professionals, students (college, graduate, law, medical school), biracial/multiracial individuals, athletes, LGBTQ clients, survivors of sexual abuse and other trauma, law enforcement officers, chronic illness, and postpartum depression.
I have over 20 years of experience helping individuals cope with stress, loss, fear, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and adjustment to life changes. I work collaboratively with clients to establish a trusting and supportive relationship, set goals for therapy, build upon strengths to increase confidence and self-esteem, and work toward resolving issues.
(973) 202-1421 View (973) 202-1421
Photo of Rachel Altounian, MS, LAC
Rachel Altounian
MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07043
You already have everything within you to meet your goals. I am here to help quiet the noise, focus your energy, and support you through the challenges and celebrations that lie ahead. I work collaboratively with my clients to improve self-acceptance, clarify the path you are walking, and cope with the unique difficulties you experience. You deserve to heal and you are not only your pain. We will look at your many parts to empower you to level up and move forward with confidence.
You already have everything within you to meet your goals. I am here to help quiet the noise, focus your energy, and support you through the challenges and celebrations that lie ahead. I work collaboratively with my clients to improve self-acceptance, clarify the path you are walking, and cope with the unique difficulties you experience. You deserve to heal and you are not only your pain. We will look at your many parts to empower you to level up and move forward with confidence.
(973) 553-4259 View (973) 553-4259
Photo of Ann Rasmussen, PsyD, Psychologist
Ann Rasmussen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I will skillfully help you navigate the greatest struggles of your life, and emerge empowered to move beyond whatever patterns are holding you back. Whether it's external pain (trauma, betrayal, death, illness) or internal (anxiety, depression, shame, self-sabotage), I approach all with compassionate accepting care. I am not passively silent- I will endow you with self-empowering techniques, while also coaxing forth your best inner resources. I am LGBTQ affirming. We will create an open, authentic bond through which you can access and honor your own truths, and emerge confident, self-aligned, resourced, and relieved of symptoms.
I will skillfully help you navigate the greatest struggles of your life, and emerge empowered to move beyond whatever patterns are holding you back. Whether it's external pain (trauma, betrayal, death, illness) or internal (anxiety, depression, shame, self-sabotage), I approach all with compassionate accepting care. I am not passively silent- I will endow you with self-empowering techniques, while also coaxing forth your best inner resources. I am LGBTQ affirming. We will create an open, authentic bond through which you can access and honor your own truths, and emerge confident, self-aligned, resourced, and relieved of symptoms.
(973) 988-1540 View (973) 988-1540
Photo of Alein Haddad-Perez, LCSW, EMDR, SEP, NJ, NY, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alein Haddad-Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, SEP, NJ, NY
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I utilize non-traditional approaches to offer safe expressions of the non-verbal aspects of past trauma and pain.
Have you been in therapy for some time yet still feel stuck? Do you find yourself feeling disconnected from your body, your feelings, or the people you love? I believe that everyone has the capacity to live a happy and a fulfilling life, and I can help you get there. Regardless of how long you’ve been battling anxiety, depression, relational problems, trauma, or issues of self-esteem, I will accompany you in your healing journey with compassion and acceptance. As a trauma therapist, I rely on my knowledge of the neurobiology of trauma, Polyvagal , structural dissociation, and attachment theory to guide my interventions.
I utilize non-traditional approaches to offer safe expressions of the non-verbal aspects of past trauma and pain.
Have you been in therapy for some time yet still feel stuck? Do you find yourself feeling disconnected from your body, your feelings, or the people you love? I believe that everyone has the capacity to live a happy and a fulfilling life, and I can help you get there. Regardless of how long you’ve been battling anxiety, depression, relational problems, trauma, or issues of self-esteem, I will accompany you in your healing journey with compassion and acceptance. As a trauma therapist, I rely on my knowledge of the neurobiology of trauma, Polyvagal , structural dissociation, and attachment theory to guide my interventions.
(862) 292-4844 View (862) 292-4844
Photo of Andrea Peyser, LCSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Peyser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07043  (Online Only)
I am a capable navigator for those facing chronic illness, pain management and difficult treatment.
I am a mature and long-time clinician. I focus on family issues, parenting crises, divorce/custody, and the problems of older adults. In the past few years, I have become quite comfortable with virtual office treatment. I am warm and engaging and able to establish meaningful rapport. Virtual therapy isn’t comfortable for all but surprisingly it can offer an intensity that is sometimes not easily established in the traditional setting. I am glad to offer assistance with the technology of virtual therapy for those who are less experienced.
I am a capable navigator for those facing chronic illness, pain management and difficult treatment.
I am a mature and long-time clinician. I focus on family issues, parenting crises, divorce/custody, and the problems of older adults. In the past few years, I have become quite comfortable with virtual office treatment. I am warm and engaging and able to establish meaningful rapport. Virtual therapy isn’t comfortable for all but surprisingly it can offer an intensity that is sometimes not easily established in the traditional setting. I am glad to offer assistance with the technology of virtual therapy for those who are less experienced.
(862) 305-3620 View (862) 305-3620
Photo of David Sarfati, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Sarfati
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Having worked in a medical setting, I have expertise in helping individuals and families who are affected by illness.
My passion is helping people adjust to significant transitions in their lives. Often when we experience changes in our lives, we lose our sense of balance and identity. These changes may be caused by the death of a loved one, shifts in family roles, adjustment to an illness, or new demands at school or work. In our work, you will gain a deeper understanding of how these transitions are impacting your mood, quality of life, and overall happiness. I work with clients to set and achieve realistic goals, while using one's values and strengths to help achieve these goals.
Having worked in a medical setting, I have expertise in helping individuals and families who are affected by illness.
My passion is helping people adjust to significant transitions in their lives. Often when we experience changes in our lives, we lose our sense of balance and identity. These changes may be caused by the death of a loved one, shifts in family roles, adjustment to an illness, or new demands at school or work. In our work, you will gain a deeper understanding of how these transitions are impacting your mood, quality of life, and overall happiness. I work with clients to set and achieve realistic goals, while using one's values and strengths to help achieve these goals.
(201) 762-0376 View (201) 762-0376
Photo of Carol S Marcus, PhD, Psychologist
Carol S Marcus
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
People I have worked with have found these treatment approaches successful in transforming emotional burdens such as trauma, difficult relational patterns, old beliefs about ourselves, and others, and discomfort/ pain in the body while working towards shifting their relationships with themselves and others.
I am available for in person sessions in Portland, OR only. While I continue to practice in New Jersey, it is through online sessions. I approach therapy with the belief that we all have an inherent ability to grow and heal, wired deep inside ourselves. I have great faith in this capacity to heal and transform. My approach is collaborative and respectful. I am certified in Somatic Experiencing; a body-based naturalistic approach to healing trauma and also training in IFS; Internal Family Systems therapy and EMDR. Currently, I am licensed in Oregon and New Jersey.
People I have worked with have found these treatment approaches successful in transforming emotional burdens such as trauma, difficult relational patterns, old beliefs about ourselves, and others, and discomfort/ pain in the body while working towards shifting their relationships with themselves and others.
I am available for in person sessions in Portland, OR only. While I continue to practice in New Jersey, it is through online sessions. I approach therapy with the belief that we all have an inherent ability to grow and heal, wired deep inside ourselves. I have great faith in this capacity to heal and transform. My approach is collaborative and respectful. I am certified in Somatic Experiencing; a body-based naturalistic approach to healing trauma and also training in IFS; Internal Family Systems therapy and EMDR. Currently, I am licensed in Oregon and New Jersey.
(503) 755-5247 View (503) 755-5247
Photo of Patricia Kenney, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Kenney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
I have had a lot of experience with people with a trauma history, people who suffer from anxiety and chronic pain and chronic illness.
I have been a therapist for over 27 years and my passion to help people has not changed. Therapy is about not just listening to your client, but hearing what that person is saying, not just their actual words but what thoughts and feelings are behind the words. To my client, a therapy session feels like a conversation with someone who cares deeply about them and is listening, hearing and responding. But it is much more than a friendly conversation, as I offer my knowledge, expertise and acquired skills to help you solve your problems.
I have had a lot of experience with people with a trauma history, people who suffer from anxiety and chronic pain and chronic illness.
I have been a therapist for over 27 years and my passion to help people has not changed. Therapy is about not just listening to your client, but hearing what that person is saying, not just their actual words but what thoughts and feelings are behind the words. To my client, a therapy session feels like a conversation with someone who cares deeply about them and is listening, hearing and responding. But it is much more than a friendly conversation, as I offer my knowledge, expertise and acquired skills to help you solve your problems.
(640) 300-4638 View (640) 300-4638
Photo of Amanda Spray, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Amanda Spray
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am a licensed psychologist with expertise in working with adults diagnosed with ADHD, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain and/or illness, insomnia, and depression. I also provide evaluation for suspected ADHD and executive functioning coaching for late teens and adults. I am board certified in Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy. I am also a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at NYU Grossman School of Medicine where I provide psychological services to veterans and family members and supervise and teach psychology trainees and psychiatry residents.
I am a licensed psychologist with expertise in working with adults diagnosed with ADHD, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain and/or illness, insomnia, and depression. I also provide evaluation for suspected ADHD and executive functioning coaching for late teens and adults. I am board certified in Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy. I am also a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at NYU Grossman School of Medicine where I provide psychological services to veterans and family members and supervise and teach psychology trainees and psychiatry residents.
(929) 298-3810 View (929) 298-3810
Photo of Vicki Beckerman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vicki Beckerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Seeking therapy for your child can be overwhelming and is important to work with a therapist who is collaborative and consistently available to parents. I specialize in play therapy with young children and psychotherapy for teens and I work with youngsters coping with chronic medical illness. My approach is creative, warm and accessible to all family members and I utilize a variety of treatment modalities, including cognitive behavioral strategies, art therapy, sand play therapy and group counseling. I assist parents in becoming "on the same page" regarding their children and I help caregivers to review their own parenting styles.
Seeking therapy for your child can be overwhelming and is important to work with a therapist who is collaborative and consistently available to parents. I specialize in play therapy with young children and psychotherapy for teens and I work with youngsters coping with chronic medical illness. My approach is creative, warm and accessible to all family members and I utilize a variety of treatment modalities, including cognitive behavioral strategies, art therapy, sand play therapy and group counseling. I assist parents in becoming "on the same page" regarding their children and I help caregivers to review their own parenting styles.
(973) 287-4221 View (973) 287-4221
Photo of Francesca Peckman, PsyD, DABPS, CPQ, Psychologist
Francesca Peckman
Psychologist, PsyD, DABPS, CPQ
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Clinical Forensic Psychologist, Imago Relationship Therapist. Family and Individual Therapy. Adults, Adolescents, Children. BILINGUAL -- Spanish/ English. "FEEL GOOD ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR DECISION MAKING". As a FAMILY Consultant, I help all family members reach their potential, parents and teens stay in touch, heal from losing a loved one, learn to speak up for yourself, learn to manage separation and divorce issues.For INDIVIDUALS (children through adult): Reach your potential through constructive problem solving, overcome stress, anger, depression, anxiety, fears; pain management.
Clinical Forensic Psychologist, Imago Relationship Therapist. Family and Individual Therapy. Adults, Adolescents, Children. BILINGUAL -- Spanish/ English. "FEEL GOOD ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR DECISION MAKING". As a FAMILY Consultant, I help all family members reach their potential, parents and teens stay in touch, heal from losing a loved one, learn to speak up for yourself, learn to manage separation and divorce issues.For INDIVIDUALS (children through adult): Reach your potential through constructive problem solving, overcome stress, anger, depression, anxiety, fears; pain management.
(973) 287-4123 View (973) 287-4123
Photo of Anna Derbaly-Basenese, PsyD, Psychologist
Anna Derbaly-Basenese
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
Throughout life, we are often faced with obstacles that can be daunting and overwhelming, leading to difficult emotions that can leave one feeling powerless. Many people will experience feelings of depression, anxiety, or despair at some point as they journey through this life. If you are experiencing changes in your life, whether it be coping with a new chronic illness, a traumatic life experience, or changing relationship dynamics, I am here to guide you through the path to new skills for managing stress and a varying perspective on the world around you.
Throughout life, we are often faced with obstacles that can be daunting and overwhelming, leading to difficult emotions that can leave one feeling powerless. Many people will experience feelings of depression, anxiety, or despair at some point as they journey through this life. If you are experiencing changes in your life, whether it be coping with a new chronic illness, a traumatic life experience, or changing relationship dynamics, I am here to guide you through the path to new skills for managing stress and a varying perspective on the world around you.
(862) 660-8254 View (862) 660-8254
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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.