Chronic Pain Therapists in Mount Holly, NJ

Photo of Dr. Ray Anthony Fearon, Psy D, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Ray Anthony Fearon
Licensed Professional Counselor, Psy D
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Holly, NJ 08060  (Online Only)
I know it is hard to reach out and seek professional help. It's confusing and frustrating. I want to make it as easy as possible to help you to heal. In treatment, my goal is to challenge you. Challenge you to think differently, behave differently, live differently, or create the life you want to live. Whether this is overcoming anxiety, substance issues, trauma, burnout, or navigating reaching your personal goals.
I know it is hard to reach out and seek professional help. It's confusing and frustrating. I want to make it as easy as possible to help you to heal. In treatment, my goal is to challenge you. Challenge you to think differently, behave differently, live differently, or create the life you want to live. Whether this is overcoming anxiety, substance issues, trauma, burnout, or navigating reaching your personal goals.
(609) 793-8821 View (609) 793-8821
Photo of Life Focus Center, Pastoral Counselor
Life Focus Center
Pastoral Counselor
Verified Verified
Mount Holly, NJ 08060
At LFC our core values are described in the acronym of R.E.A.C.H. R = Relationships: building a healthy relationship with Jesus to have healthy relationship with others. E = Empathy & Compassion: all our counselors have experienced their own trials and tribulations in life. A = Acceptance: We believe God created us all uniquely and all individuals respond differently to their environment, others and situations. C = Confidentiality: confidentiality is of utmost importance. H = Healing: the ultimate goal in our counseling is to bring healing to mind, body and spirit.
At LFC our core values are described in the acronym of R.E.A.C.H. R = Relationships: building a healthy relationship with Jesus to have healthy relationship with others. E = Empathy & Compassion: all our counselors have experienced their own trials and tribulations in life. A = Acceptance: We believe God created us all uniquely and all individuals respond differently to their environment, others and situations. C = Confidentiality: confidentiality is of utmost importance. H = Healing: the ultimate goal in our counseling is to bring healing to mind, body and spirit.
(609) 643-5794 View (609) 643-5794
Photo of Melanie Pacheco, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Pacheco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Mount Holly, NJ 08060
I love working with all different types of clients, and I find that I learn from those that I work with. I love working with anyone who wants to make a change or achieve a goal.
I love working with all different types of clients, and I find that I learn from those that I work with. I love working with anyone who wants to make a change or achieve a goal.
(856) 934-5485 View (856) 934-5485

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Robert J Brecher, PsyD, Psychologist
Robert J Brecher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Maple Shade, NJ 08052
DRB Health Psychology provides services to patients typically treated by medical specialities of: Cardiology, Chronic Pain, Neurology, Rheumatology, Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, and Oncology.
Robert J. Brecher, PsyD, is dedicated to helping people with chronic medical conditions manage their health needs to maximize quality of life and promote satisfaction with life. Dr. Brecher recognizes a common feature of many chronic medical illnesses is the stress of trying to achieve balance between the symptoms and limitations of one or more chronic medical conditions and a personally satisfying lifestyle. Difficulty balancing a desired lifestyle and managing symptoms can function to make the symptoms of the condition worse, undercutting medical treatments and disease management efforts.
DRB Health Psychology provides services to patients typically treated by medical specialities of: Cardiology, Chronic Pain, Neurology, Rheumatology, Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, and Oncology.
Robert J. Brecher, PsyD, is dedicated to helping people with chronic medical conditions manage their health needs to maximize quality of life and promote satisfaction with life. Dr. Brecher recognizes a common feature of many chronic medical illnesses is the stress of trying to achieve balance between the symptoms and limitations of one or more chronic medical conditions and a personally satisfying lifestyle. Difficulty balancing a desired lifestyle and managing symptoms can function to make the symptoms of the condition worse, undercutting medical treatments and disease management efforts.
(856) 221-4914 View (856) 221-4914
Photo of Laurie Engel, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Engel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Moorestown, NJ 08057  (Online Only)
Areas of specialty include: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, couples counseling, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, trauma, grief and loss, substance abuse relapse prevention, and chronic pain.
My 25 years of experience includes working with adults in the partial care, intensive outpatient and outpatient levels of care. In a comfortable, non-judgmental atmosphere, I work collaboratively with clients to help them improve their coping skills, problem solving skills and increase motivation for change. I support the change process whether it relates to such issues as substance abuse,marital problems, poor communication in the family, depression or anxiety. I offer practical strategies to cope with every day life such as anger management techniques, assertiveness skills training, and communication and relaxation techniques.
Areas of specialty include: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, couples counseling, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, trauma, grief and loss, substance abuse relapse prevention, and chronic pain.
My 25 years of experience includes working with adults in the partial care, intensive outpatient and outpatient levels of care. In a comfortable, non-judgmental atmosphere, I work collaboratively with clients to help them improve their coping skills, problem solving skills and increase motivation for change. I support the change process whether it relates to such issues as substance abuse,marital problems, poor communication in the family, depression or anxiety. I offer practical strategies to cope with every day life such as anger management techniques, assertiveness skills training, and communication and relaxation techniques.
(609) 770-4292 View (609) 770-4292
Photo of Susan Howell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Howell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Medford, NJ 08055  (Online Only)
My counseling is focused on individuals and relationships. I have worked with many who have experienced abuse whether that is verbal, emotional, physical, or spiritual. I have witnessed the growth and recovery of many as they work through the grief and loss of loved ones, values, boundary issues, or well-being caused by separation, divorce, illness, death, or trauma. I find it fulfilling to work with clients regarding their academic or career choices and circumstances, and to assist them with realizing and showcasing their abilities and strengths.
My counseling is focused on individuals and relationships. I have worked with many who have experienced abuse whether that is verbal, emotional, physical, or spiritual. I have witnessed the growth and recovery of many as they work through the grief and loss of loved ones, values, boundary issues, or well-being caused by separation, divorce, illness, death, or trauma. I find it fulfilling to work with clients regarding their academic or career choices and circumstances, and to assist them with realizing and showcasing their abilities and strengths.
(856) 223-2222 x100 View (856) 223-2222 x100
Photo of Jennifer Marie Del Russo, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Marie Del Russo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
It is my goal to help others heal past trauma; gain better insight into what motivates their behaviors and responses; learn positive coping skills and self-care activities; and grow into the person they want to be. Whether you struggle with chronic mental illness; situational stressors; or simply need a psychological clearance evaluation (such a pre-surgery), I will create a personalized plan to help each person meet individual goals in an accepting and respectful manner.
It is my goal to help others heal past trauma; gain better insight into what motivates their behaviors and responses; learn positive coping skills and self-care activities; and grow into the person they want to be. Whether you struggle with chronic mental illness; situational stressors; or simply need a psychological clearance evaluation (such a pre-surgery), I will create a personalized plan to help each person meet individual goals in an accepting and respectful manner.
(856) 538-3337 View (856) 538-3337
Photo of Lisa Marie Lyons, PsyD, Psychologist
Lisa Marie Lyons
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Moorestown, NJ 08057
As long as you are breathing, there is more right with you than is wrong with you, no matter what is wrong. I am a NJ and PA doctoral level licensed psychologist with more than 20 years of experience working individuals across the lifespan. I work with patients with a wide range of challenges including anxiety and mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, chronic medical illness, executive function/attention issues, social/coping/life skills deficits, relationship issues, self-esteem, trauma, LGBTQ+, parenting issues, and life stressors in general. I own and operate my practice, so individualized attention is an added bonus.
As long as you are breathing, there is more right with you than is wrong with you, no matter what is wrong. I am a NJ and PA doctoral level licensed psychologist with more than 20 years of experience working individuals across the lifespan. I work with patients with a wide range of challenges including anxiety and mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, chronic medical illness, executive function/attention issues, social/coping/life skills deficits, relationship issues, self-esteem, trauma, LGBTQ+, parenting issues, and life stressors in general. I own and operate my practice, so individualized attention is an added bonus.
(856) 372-4068 View (856) 372-4068
Photo of Veronica O'Brien, MS, LPC, CSTIP, CIMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Veronica O'Brien
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSTIP, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Pemberton, NJ 08068  (Online Only)
If you feel overwhelmed by your symptoms and need help to navigate through the difficulties of life, I will work with you to transform your pain into purpose.
I am passionate about empowering individuals and couples transform their pain into purpose. I have found that at the heart of most emotional pain, is the desire to belong, to feel heard and understood, and to make sense of the sufferings that we all go through. If you are wondering or have been struggling to break-free from repeated relationship problems, binge-eating, anxiety, ocd, trauma or life- stressors, I can help. I use a wide range of approaches including faith-based and integrative methods to treat the whole person.
If you feel overwhelmed by your symptoms and need help to navigate through the difficulties of life, I will work with you to transform your pain into purpose.
I am passionate about empowering individuals and couples transform their pain into purpose. I have found that at the heart of most emotional pain, is the desire to belong, to feel heard and understood, and to make sense of the sufferings that we all go through. If you are wondering or have been struggling to break-free from repeated relationship problems, binge-eating, anxiety, ocd, trauma or life- stressors, I can help. I use a wide range of approaches including faith-based and integrative methods to treat the whole person.
(609) 710-9196 View (609) 710-9196
Photo of Stacey Seligman, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacey Seligman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm committed to providing a safe, caring, and nonjudgmental environment that encourages you to identify and overcome personal obstacles and emotional pain.
At one point or another, life can get difficult and painful for anyone. I specialize in helping people navigate their way through the challenges we all face that can make things seem so overwhelming. I believe the therapeutic process is a valuable tool that creates positive change in a client's life; from finding relief from depression, anxiety, and anger to developing coping skills and making life decisions. My approach to treatment is eclectic, allowing me to customize treatment for each client's unique needs and goals. My therapeutic style includes creativity, humor and support.
I'm committed to providing a safe, caring, and nonjudgmental environment that encourages you to identify and overcome personal obstacles and emotional pain.
At one point or another, life can get difficult and painful for anyone. I specialize in helping people navigate their way through the challenges we all face that can make things seem so overwhelming. I believe the therapeutic process is a valuable tool that creates positive change in a client's life; from finding relief from depression, anxiety, and anger to developing coping skills and making life decisions. My approach to treatment is eclectic, allowing me to customize treatment for each client's unique needs and goals. My therapeutic style includes creativity, humor and support.
(856) 997-2310 View (856) 997-2310
Photo of Fusion Care Counseling Fusion Care Counseling - Fusion Care Counseling, LICSW, MSW, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fusion Care Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, CSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, NJ 08016
you are ready to get rid of all the hurt and pain that's keeping you down.
It takes courage to seek help during life's difficult moments. If You're wondering: Who? When? What? How? Why? feeling lost, confused, neglected, or overwhelmed with stress, addiction, loss/grief, trauma or fear of the unknown. You are making an important decision to get the help you want. I will listen as you work things out to reach your desired goals. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, fear,depression, relational issues, financial,or health concerns. I am there to provide the tools, guidance to express yourself in a judgement free space.Talking, laughing, weeping, walking,dancing,screaming welcome too.
you are ready to get rid of all the hurt and pain that's keeping you down.
It takes courage to seek help during life's difficult moments. If You're wondering: Who? When? What? How? Why? feeling lost, confused, neglected, or overwhelmed with stress, addiction, loss/grief, trauma or fear of the unknown. You are making an important decision to get the help you want. I will listen as you work things out to reach your desired goals. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, fear,depression, relational issues, financial,or health concerns. I am there to provide the tools, guidance to express yourself in a judgement free space.Talking, laughing, weeping, walking,dancing,screaming welcome too.
(701) 670-3797 View (701) 670-3797
Photo of Mark C Still, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark C Still
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
I haven't known a single client whom I couldn't relate to, whose pain and attempts to deal with it I could not empathize with, on some basic level.
It's time to totally shake it up. Forget what you think you know about therapy or what you need to do to change your life... Making that level of change means confronting Truth and fundamentally changing yourself. I won't sugarcoat it and I certainly won't lie to you: I will tell you what you need to know and guide you toward making the proper choices in your life. And I'll prove it to you right now: I tell you outright that I can't fix you. No one can. The only person that has that sort of power over you IS you. This involves hard choices in learning how to manage your life. And I will stand beside you every step of the way.
I haven't known a single client whom I couldn't relate to, whose pain and attempts to deal with it I could not empathize with, on some basic level.
It's time to totally shake it up. Forget what you think you know about therapy or what you need to do to change your life... Making that level of change means confronting Truth and fundamentally changing yourself. I won't sugarcoat it and I certainly won't lie to you: I will tell you what you need to know and guide you toward making the proper choices in your life. And I'll prove it to you right now: I tell you outright that I can't fix you. No one can. The only person that has that sort of power over you IS you. This involves hard choices in learning how to manage your life. And I will stand beside you every step of the way.
(609) 912-3031 View (609) 912-3031
Photo of Gabriele Schorb-Machado - Gabriele Schorb-Machado LPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gabriele Schorb-Machado LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Moorestown, NJ 08057
You can reach out to me for assistance if you look for someone who will listen attentively, respond with empathy and understanding of your needs, and expertly guide you towards finding your own unique solutions. Many of my clients deal with stress, anxiety, depression or trauma related to their families, relationships, jobs, or other situations. My traditional clients also seek help for stress related, chronic mental health issues, child behavior-or parenting problems, as well for dealing with or recovering from narcissistic abuse, stage of life problems, academic or career issues, chronic pain, and co-parenting issues.
You can reach out to me for assistance if you look for someone who will listen attentively, respond with empathy and understanding of your needs, and expertly guide you towards finding your own unique solutions. Many of my clients deal with stress, anxiety, depression or trauma related to their families, relationships, jobs, or other situations. My traditional clients also seek help for stress related, chronic mental health issues, child behavior-or parenting problems, as well for dealing with or recovering from narcissistic abuse, stage of life problems, academic or career issues, chronic pain, and co-parenting issues.
(856) 343-4078 View (856) 343-4078
Photo of Dorothy Dolan - Greater New Jersey Therapy Partners, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Greater New Jersey Therapy Partners
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marlton, NJ 08053
Are you or your child struggling during these difficult times? We can help. At Greater New Jersey Therapy Partners we are a team of Licensed therapists. Our versatility ensures a great fit for you and your family. Our therapists are specifically trained to meet the unique needs of children and adults. We specialize in adult and childhood issues including anger and aggression, anxiety, illness, depression and behavior issues. We are a therapy provider as well as a therapist training center, so you know our therapists are leaders in the industry.
Are you or your child struggling during these difficult times? We can help. At Greater New Jersey Therapy Partners we are a team of Licensed therapists. Our versatility ensures a great fit for you and your family. Our therapists are specifically trained to meet the unique needs of children and adults. We specialize in adult and childhood issues including anger and aggression, anxiety, illness, depression and behavior issues. We are a therapy provider as well as a therapist training center, so you know our therapists are leaders in the industry.
(856) 259-1394 View (856) 259-1394
Photo of Kyle Miceli - MinuteClinic Diagnostics of NJ LLC, MSW, LCSW, CSSW, CDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
MinuteClinic Diagnostics of NJ LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSSW, CDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
My experience is focusing on helping people through anxiety, depression, grief and loss, chronic illness, relationship difficulties, identity concerns, self-esteem concerns, career concerns, caregiver burnout, and finding community resources as needed.
Reaching out for emotional support and assistance can be overwhelming. I commend you on taking the first step. I am committed to providing a safe, warm, and comfortable environment, while listening to your concerns. I use a strength based, client centered approach, and want to ensure you are treated with the highest level of dignity and respect. I have worked with people of all ages, the LGBTQ+ community, and provide a safe zone for talking about identity. I am an eclectic therapist and practice Short Term Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help you reach your goals.
My experience is focusing on helping people through anxiety, depression, grief and loss, chronic illness, relationship difficulties, identity concerns, self-esteem concerns, career concerns, caregiver burnout, and finding community resources as needed.
Reaching out for emotional support and assistance can be overwhelming. I commend you on taking the first step. I am committed to providing a safe, warm, and comfortable environment, while listening to your concerns. I use a strength based, client centered approach, and want to ensure you are treated with the highest level of dignity and respect. I have worked with people of all ages, the LGBTQ+ community, and provide a safe zone for talking about identity. I am an eclectic therapist and practice Short Term Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help you reach your goals.
(856) 406-5048 View (856) 406-5048
Photo of Robin G Freedman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robin G Freedman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Moorestown, NJ 08057
Life can be challenging and stressful. As M. Scott Peck wrote, "Life is difficult." Life can also be filled with enormous joy and pleasure. If you are suffering with depression or anxiety, struggling with the daily stresses of parenting, relationships, work place issues, coping with illness or grieving the loss of a loved one, I offer a safe, supportive and compassionate environment to assist you with these life challenges. The emotional support and guidance of a caring and empathetic professional, can truly make a positive difference in your life experience and emotional well-being.
Life can be challenging and stressful. As M. Scott Peck wrote, "Life is difficult." Life can also be filled with enormous joy and pleasure. If you are suffering with depression or anxiety, struggling with the daily stresses of parenting, relationships, work place issues, coping with illness or grieving the loss of a loved one, I offer a safe, supportive and compassionate environment to assist you with these life challenges. The emotional support and guidance of a caring and empathetic professional, can truly make a positive difference in your life experience and emotional well-being.
(215) 874-3162 View (215) 874-3162
Photo of Karen Monaco, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Monaco
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Moorestown, NJ 08057
I have specialized experience treating children and families dealing with medical illness, disabilities, and developmental issues.
Peace of Mind. The goal of therapy is the relief of emotional distress, empowering you to approach life challenges with a feeling of calm and increased competence. We can work to reduce anxiety, improve mood, learn coping skills and calming strategies. These tools can be applied to a variety of issues including parenting skills, childhood behavior, pregnancy, postpartum and motherhood, relationships, medical stressors, anxiety and depression. I am offering in-office sessions as well as telehealth video sessions to let you choose what is most helpful to you.
I have specialized experience treating children and families dealing with medical illness, disabilities, and developmental issues.
Peace of Mind. The goal of therapy is the relief of emotional distress, empowering you to approach life challenges with a feeling of calm and increased competence. We can work to reduce anxiety, improve mood, learn coping skills and calming strategies. These tools can be applied to a variety of issues including parenting skills, childhood behavior, pregnancy, postpartum and motherhood, relationships, medical stressors, anxiety and depression. I am offering in-office sessions as well as telehealth video sessions to let you choose what is most helpful to you.
(201) 484-5568 View (201) 484-5568
Photo of Gina Frigiola, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Frigiola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Southampton, NJ 08088  (Online Only)
**Accepting new clients! Evening and weekend appointments available** Everyone has a story to tell…I would like to hear yours. Your story might include sadness, pain, hurt, loss, trauma, injustice, addiction, or many other challenges that interfere with your daily functioning. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can be heard and valued. We can work together to help you sort through the difficulty, rediscover your strengths, and find the joy and peace you deserve in life. You can return your story to one of hope, recovery, and good health.
**Accepting new clients! Evening and weekend appointments available** Everyone has a story to tell…I would like to hear yours. Your story might include sadness, pain, hurt, loss, trauma, injustice, addiction, or many other challenges that interfere with your daily functioning. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can be heard and valued. We can work together to help you sort through the difficulty, rediscover your strengths, and find the joy and peace you deserve in life. You can return your story to one of hope, recovery, and good health.
(848) 257-9532 View (848) 257-9532
Photo of Amanda Cusa, MSW, LSW
Amanda Cusa
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
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.
(609) 312-5395 View (609) 312-5395
Photo of Dr. Lori Crowson, DBH, LPC, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Lori Crowson
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, PLLC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Riverside, NJ 08075
I have a passion to help people overcome trials of life, go in the direction of grace and acceptance, and come to terms with their shortcomings without feeling condemnation. My aim is to help people learn how to be hospitable rather than exist in a state of hostility or loneliness. While we cannot change difficult situations of our past, we can work together to better understand and resolve the resulting challenges in our life. We all share a common need to express emotions and learn new ways to cope effectively.
I have a passion to help people overcome trials of life, go in the direction of grace and acceptance, and come to terms with their shortcomings without feeling condemnation. My aim is to help people learn how to be hospitable rather than exist in a state of hostility or loneliness. While we cannot change difficult situations of our past, we can work together to better understand and resolve the resulting challenges in our life. We all share a common need to express emotions and learn new ways to cope effectively.
(405) 563-7849 View (405) 563-7849

See more therapy options for Mount Holly

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.