Chronic Pain Therapists in Paramus, NJ
--Another specialty of mine is coping with chronic illness while maximizing quality of life in a realistic way.
I enjoy my profession as a therapist. Every person faces life transitions and crises. All that we can control is how we respond to these challenges. My approach is to try to understand each client's unique needs, discover and mobilize the client's strengths, and enhance their coping skills. I strive to help my client use the precipitant, what brought them to therapy, to grow as a person from the therapy experience. My approach is to listen to my client, help them process their feelings, empower them to see that they have choices, and choose emotionally healthy options.
--Another specialty of mine is coping with chronic illness while maximizing quality of life in a realistic way.
I enjoy my profession as a therapist. Every person faces life transitions and crises. All that we can control is how we respond to these challenges. My approach is to try to understand each client's unique needs, discover and mobilize the client's strengths, and enhance their coping skills. I strive to help my client use the precipitant, what brought them to therapy, to grow as a person from the therapy experience. My approach is to listen to my client, help them process their feelings, empower them to see that they have choices, and choose emotionally healthy options.
![Photo of Nancy Just - Advanced Psychological Specialists, LLC, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e3aa811-9f08-4539-9689-3a4b0ab3e2ea/2/320x400.jpeg)
As one travels through the different stages of life, many challenges inevitably arise. These challenges can be the result of life circumstances, such as chronic pain, loss of a loved one, childhood/ parenting problems or relationship difficulties. These challenges can also be due to chronic or severe conditions such as depression, anxiety, cognitive disorder or thought disorder. A thorough assessment and psychological treatment plan can help you navigate all of these types of challenges and achieve optimal emotional health.
As one travels through the different stages of life, many challenges inevitably arise. These challenges can be the result of life circumstances, such as chronic pain, loss of a loved one, childhood/ parenting problems or relationship difficulties. These challenges can also be due to chronic or severe conditions such as depression, anxiety, cognitive disorder or thought disorder. A thorough assessment and psychological treatment plan can help you navigate all of these types of challenges and achieve optimal emotional health.
![Photo of Lauren Bradley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22ed5f90-ee61-407e-b8f9-475b6e8e3cd8/3/320x400.png)
Lauren Bradley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07653 (Online Only)
I specialize in a range of areas, including anxiety and depressive disorders, trauma, post-traumatic stress, sexual violence, grief and loss, coping with chronic illness/cancer, life transitions, relationship & family issues, women's and men’s health, infertility, and caregiver distress & burnout.
I’m here to support you through whatever challenges you’re facing—whether it’s healing from trauma, navigating a life transition, or managing feelings of depression and anxiety. I believe that therapy is a powerful tool for growth and healing, providing a safe space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, gain new perspectives, and develop coping strategies that work for you. Together, we’ll work on building the tools and insights you need to achieve greater mental and emotional well-being.
I specialize in a range of areas, including anxiety and depressive disorders, trauma, post-traumatic stress, sexual violence, grief and loss, coping with chronic illness/cancer, life transitions, relationship & family issues, women's and men’s health, infertility, and caregiver distress & burnout.
I’m here to support you through whatever challenges you’re facing—whether it’s healing from trauma, navigating a life transition, or managing feelings of depression and anxiety. I believe that therapy is a powerful tool for growth and healing, providing a safe space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, gain new perspectives, and develop coping strategies that work for you. Together, we’ll work on building the tools and insights you need to achieve greater mental and emotional well-being.
![Photo of Cynthia Radnitz, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c1184b1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Other specialty areas include BFRBs, panic disorder and other anxiety disorders, depression, substance abuse, anger management, ibs, chronic pain, ADHD, assertiveness training, and help with "life" problems.
I am a certified cognitive therapist, www.academyofct.org, with over 20 years' experience practicing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I am committed to offering my clients state-of-the-art CBT interventions with substantial research support showing their effectiveness, so that I might provide for my clients the most appropriate and effective interventions available. At the same time, I understand the importance of providing a highly supportive environment conducive to helping people work on improving their lives.
Other specialty areas include BFRBs, panic disorder and other anxiety disorders, depression, substance abuse, anger management, ibs, chronic pain, ADHD, assertiveness training, and help with "life" problems.
I am a certified cognitive therapist, www.academyofct.org, with over 20 years' experience practicing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I am committed to offering my clients state-of-the-art CBT interventions with substantial research support showing their effectiveness, so that I might provide for my clients the most appropriate and effective interventions available. At the same time, I understand the importance of providing a highly supportive environment conducive to helping people work on improving their lives.
![Photo of Mary Beth Del Balzo, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab9cdcb2-85e0-4f20-8722-9abe31cdfd21/1/320x400.jpeg)
Therapeutic specializations include adult and older adult transitions, catastrophic illness counseling, bereavement and grief, anxiety, depression, stress, women's issues, spirit based counseling, and caretaker issues and resources.
My mission is to patiently support people in seeking and finding joy that eludes them, helping them to empower themselves by using psychotherapy & hypnotherapy, working with the mind, body, emotions and our spirit that makes us unique and a part of the whole of humanity. Our therapeutic alliance encourages a look at the world in a new, safe way. Hypnosis and work in the subconscious is the eye to the soul. I'm an expert hypnotherapist with numerous hypnosis certifications, in private psychotherapy practice since 2005 and a practicing clinical hypnotherapist since 1995, located in NJ.
Therapeutic specializations include adult and older adult transitions, catastrophic illness counseling, bereavement and grief, anxiety, depression, stress, women's issues, spirit based counseling, and caretaker issues and resources.
My mission is to patiently support people in seeking and finding joy that eludes them, helping them to empower themselves by using psychotherapy & hypnotherapy, working with the mind, body, emotions and our spirit that makes us unique and a part of the whole of humanity. Our therapeutic alliance encourages a look at the world in a new, safe way. Hypnosis and work in the subconscious is the eye to the soul. I'm an expert hypnotherapist with numerous hypnosis certifications, in private psychotherapy practice since 2005 and a practicing clinical hypnotherapist since 1995, located in NJ.
![Photo of Deborah R Wagner, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e9d8a8e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
In understanding that individuals in pain or having a particular challenge in life may make only one attempt at reaching out for help, I strive to welcome and set at ease every one who contacts me. Most therapy patients are ordinary people that have hit a bump in the road of life and cannot get past it on their own.
My commitment, through goal directed therapy, is to help those people return to their optimal level of coping with the sometimes mild, sometimes severe challenges that life brings their way and guide them back to a sense of well being.
In understanding that individuals in pain or having a particular challenge in life may make only one attempt at reaching out for help, I strive to welcome and set at ease every one who contacts me. Most therapy patients are ordinary people that have hit a bump in the road of life and cannot get past it on their own.
My commitment, through goal directed therapy, is to help those people return to their optimal level of coping with the sometimes mild, sometimes severe challenges that life brings their way and guide them back to a sense of well being.
![Photo of Deborah G Schuster, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b88e34d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
35+ years experience includes treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Personality & Adjustment Disorders associated with Family/Marital issues, Divorce, Parenting, Grief & Illness.
Too often individuals & couples self-impose obstacles to their own happiness. Within a warm, caring atmosphere, I endeavor to help rid clients of these roadblocks--to get them unstuck from repetitive, unproductive behaviors and/or relational patterns so that they may move on to richer fuller lives. While nurturing & supportive, I am active & solution focused, concentrating on the present with an understanding of the past.
35+ years experience includes treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Personality & Adjustment Disorders associated with Family/Marital issues, Divorce, Parenting, Grief & Illness.
Too often individuals & couples self-impose obstacles to their own happiness. Within a warm, caring atmosphere, I endeavor to help rid clients of these roadblocks--to get them unstuck from repetitive, unproductive behaviors and/or relational patterns so that they may move on to richer fuller lives. While nurturing & supportive, I am active & solution focused, concentrating on the present with an understanding of the past.
![Photo of Dr. Melissa L Donahue, DSW, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26e22131-57ca-450d-9662-efc8abc48efd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Melissa L Donahue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
Patients who have benefitted struggled with differences in desire, arousal, orgasm challenges, & pain.
As a leader in sexual health and wellness, Dr. Donahue understands the complexities many people face in their lives and how it can impact their sexuality. All people are sexual beings, and their quality of life can suffer when experiencing challenges in this area. All ages, genders, ethnicities, and religious backgrounds can benefit from sex therapy. Dr. Donahue's broad spectrum of knowledge is advantageous when working with the whole patient, leaning into the body-mind connection.
Patients who have benefitted struggled with differences in desire, arousal, orgasm challenges, & pain.
As a leader in sexual health and wellness, Dr. Donahue understands the complexities many people face in their lives and how it can impact their sexuality. All people are sexual beings, and their quality of life can suffer when experiencing challenges in this area. All ages, genders, ethnicities, and religious backgrounds can benefit from sex therapy. Dr. Donahue's broad spectrum of knowledge is advantageous when working with the whole patient, leaning into the body-mind connection.
![Photo of Shirley Thompson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46bfc028-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shirley Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652 (Online Only)
I specialize in helping clients who struggle with psychological trauma, depression , anxiety, life changes, women's issues, medical conditions impacting one's mental health, various forms of abuse, grief and loss as well as marital and relation problems and managing psychological pain.
Reaching out for help is not easy for many of us but it can be very rewarding. I am frequently humbled and inspired by the courage clients show as they work to make real changes in their lives. Attending therapy demonstrates a strength and a willingness to face challenges and make changes. I am honored to accompany clients on their journey to create a life they desire.
I specialize in helping clients who struggle with psychological trauma, depression , anxiety, life changes, women's issues, medical conditions impacting one's mental health, various forms of abuse, grief and loss as well as marital and relation problems and managing psychological pain.
Reaching out for help is not easy for many of us but it can be very rewarding. I am frequently humbled and inspired by the courage clients show as they work to make real changes in their lives. Attending therapy demonstrates a strength and a willingness to face challenges and make changes. I am honored to accompany clients on their journey to create a life they desire.
![Photo of Amy Meyerson Kotliar, LCSW, ACHP-SW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bd1d2db-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Meyerson Kotliar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACHP-SW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
My approach includes vast experience with grief work & health care, to help with the loss of loved ones, issues related to illness, navigating health care systems & collaborating with health care professionals to find you or your loved ones the appropriate care.
Life can certainly be a struggle at times. Aging, whether you are just beginning to feel it or you have been moving through it for some time, is hard. Feelings of loss, depression, anger, shame, guilt and/or anxiety can waylay us and make it difficult to cope. Problems with independence, relationships, family conflicts, health issues, professional work and grief from loss can all be overwhelming. Exploring these issues in a safe, supportive environment can be helpful. By understanding what is triggering these feelings and developing tools to assist in coping, things can be less difficult and enjoyable again.
My approach includes vast experience with grief work & health care, to help with the loss of loved ones, issues related to illness, navigating health care systems & collaborating with health care professionals to find you or your loved ones the appropriate care.
Life can certainly be a struggle at times. Aging, whether you are just beginning to feel it or you have been moving through it for some time, is hard. Feelings of loss, depression, anger, shame, guilt and/or anxiety can waylay us and make it difficult to cope. Problems with independence, relationships, family conflicts, health issues, professional work and grief from loss can all be overwhelming. Exploring these issues in a safe, supportive environment can be helpful. By understanding what is triggering these feelings and developing tools to assist in coping, things can be less difficult and enjoyable again.
![Photo of Judith Glick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d7068a9-27f3-485e-abc2-c7f22f33675b/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a therapist, I deal with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, chronic illness, life's challenges with an eclectic approach.
Are you having difficulty adjusting to changes in your life? Even re-entering life after Covid-19? Are you feeling isolated? Scared? Insecure? Overwhelmed? Have normal everyday problems become magnified? If you have answered YES to ANY of these questions, NOW is the time to call me. I am here to help. While we work together for positive outcomes, YOU are the link to begin this process.
As a therapist, I deal with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, chronic illness, life's challenges with an eclectic approach.
Are you having difficulty adjusting to changes in your life? Even re-entering life after Covid-19? Are you feeling isolated? Scared? Insecure? Overwhelmed? Have normal everyday problems become magnified? If you have answered YES to ANY of these questions, NOW is the time to call me. I am here to help. While we work together for positive outcomes, YOU are the link to begin this process.
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![Photo of Holly Richmond, PhD, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e49f62c0-b0e7-45dc-9c2b-fd66f65891d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat a wide range of clients of all genders and sexual expressions for sexuality and relationship concerns. The foundation of my practice was built working with survivors of sexual assault and abuse, helping them transition into holistic sexual health for themselves, as well as sustaining intimate relationships with others. Today my practice still includes working with survivors, though I also see individuals and couples with issues such as compulsivity with pornography/sex, infidelity, fertility concerns, pain disorders, low desire, nontraditional sexual expression exploration and consensual non-monogamy.
I treat a wide range of clients of all genders and sexual expressions for sexuality and relationship concerns. The foundation of my practice was built working with survivors of sexual assault and abuse, helping them transition into holistic sexual health for themselves, as well as sustaining intimate relationships with others. Today my practice still includes working with survivors, though I also see individuals and couples with issues such as compulsivity with pornography/sex, infidelity, fertility concerns, pain disorders, low desire, nontraditional sexual expression exploration and consensual non-monogamy.
![Photo of Nazeli M. Mouradian-Afarian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f1790b5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nazeli M. Mouradian-Afarian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
When unresolved lifelong challenges cause feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, proper diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve general well-being. My clinical experience encompassed serving families and individuals who are going through life cycle changes such as developmental delays, ADHD, coping with grief/loss, adjustment to divorce, parenting support, adoption, chronic pain, and family estrangement. I aim to empower my clients to discover their best selves by utilizing my clinical expertise, and providing them with essential tools needed to attain their highest level of independent functioning.
When unresolved lifelong challenges cause feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, proper diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve general well-being. My clinical experience encompassed serving families and individuals who are going through life cycle changes such as developmental delays, ADHD, coping with grief/loss, adjustment to divorce, parenting support, adoption, chronic pain, and family estrangement. I aim to empower my clients to discover their best selves by utilizing my clinical expertise, and providing them with essential tools needed to attain their highest level of independent functioning.
![Photo of Iva Kirzhner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c5c94fb-ecc2-4862-91ab-f15ba2adf84f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Iva Kirzhner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652 (Online Only)
My goal is to inspire you to gain insight into confusing and painful areas, find clarity, and alleviate pain.
Life brings challenges to all of us; I understand this on a personal level. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience guiding and advocating for people who suffer from depression, anxiety and personality disorders. I've worked firsthand with terminally ill patients and provided grief counseling to their families.
My goal is to inspire you to gain insight into confusing and painful areas, find clarity, and alleviate pain.
Life brings challenges to all of us; I understand this on a personal level. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience guiding and advocating for people who suffer from depression, anxiety and personality disorders. I've worked firsthand with terminally ill patients and provided grief counseling to their families.
![Photo of Diante Jordan, MEd, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6d3d4da-8425-40b2-90d0-5a5fd632dd8c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Diante Jordan, is a licensed associate marriage and family therapist (LAMFT) in New Jersey. He has experience working with children, adolescents and adults from a variety of populations and settings. Diante operates from the point of view that the client is the expert on themselves and through collaboration can overcome their personal challenges and become empowered to continue growing.
Diante Jordan, is a licensed associate marriage and family therapist (LAMFT) in New Jersey. He has experience working with children, adolescents and adults from a variety of populations and settings. Diante operates from the point of view that the client is the expert on themselves and through collaboration can overcome their personal challenges and become empowered to continue growing.
![Photo of Carrie Ditzel, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8079baf5-6d22-4721-b707-128c75eb4356/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Carrie Ditzel believes in an active, warm, and personalized approach to treatment that incorporates evidenced-based therapies to help patients feel relief from their symptoms while building skills and insights that can be used in everyday life. Dr. Ditzel is the Director of Geropsycholgy and Neuropsychology departments at Baker Street Behavioral Health, a multidisciplinary behavioral health clinic providing services across the lifespan. She is passionate about helping individuals adjust positively during periods of transition and change.
Dr. Carrie Ditzel believes in an active, warm, and personalized approach to treatment that incorporates evidenced-based therapies to help patients feel relief from their symptoms while building skills and insights that can be used in everyday life. Dr. Ditzel is the Director of Geropsycholgy and Neuropsychology departments at Baker Street Behavioral Health, a multidisciplinary behavioral health clinic providing services across the lifespan. She is passionate about helping individuals adjust positively during periods of transition and change.
![Photo of Joseph Galasso - Baker Street Behavioral Health, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, ANP-BC, MD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0c5b2e2-a6b6-4b2f-8ae9-15f6cd9564e4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Baker Street Behavioral Health, PsyD, LPC, LCSW
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, ANP-BC, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
In Person Sessions Available - We are a practice of high-quality clinicians who treat all ages, from childhood through older adulthood. Our clinicians incorporate a whole-person approach into each service we provide. Our unique, comprehensive programs are designed to improve overall health and well-being. Our clinicians emphasize the use of traditional, cutting-edge, and empirically supported therapies. Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology, Medication Management, Neuropsychological Assessment, and Occupational Therapy Appointments are now available. Multiple offices are located throughout NJ with virtual appointments also available.
In Person Sessions Available - We are a practice of high-quality clinicians who treat all ages, from childhood through older adulthood. Our clinicians incorporate a whole-person approach into each service we provide. Our unique, comprehensive programs are designed to improve overall health and well-being. Our clinicians emphasize the use of traditional, cutting-edge, and empirically supported therapies. Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology, Medication Management, Neuropsychological Assessment, and Occupational Therapy Appointments are now available. Multiple offices are located throughout NJ with virtual appointments also available.
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Pre-Licensed Professional, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652 (Online Only)
We pride ourselves in providing a nurturing, clean and confidential atmosphere for our patients. We treat all ages and stages of development. We have emergency and same-day appointments. Confidentiality and privacy are maintained to the strictest of standards. We have modern electronic medical records and electronic prescribing.
We pride ourselves in providing a nurturing, clean and confidential atmosphere for our patients. We treat all ages and stages of development. We have emergency and same-day appointments. Confidentiality and privacy are maintained to the strictest of standards. We have modern electronic medical records and electronic prescribing.
![Photo of Kanan Kapila, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e08cbbec-7e9e-41d3-a36e-ed65a42cfdb5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kanan Kapila strives to provide a wise, compassionate, welcoming, and culturally conscious space where therapy can help cultivate our capacity for meaningful life, career, and relationship experiences. Psychotherapy brings awareness to emotions in relation to thoughts, amplifying our ability to respond with kind inquiry and authenticity in our actions. Kanan Kapila adopts an integrative approach to Psychotherapy, drawing from Cognitive-Behavioral, Somatic Therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, and Mindfulness techniques. Through therapy, clients gain insight into the patterns shaping their personalities.
Kanan Kapila strives to provide a wise, compassionate, welcoming, and culturally conscious space where therapy can help cultivate our capacity for meaningful life, career, and relationship experiences. Psychotherapy brings awareness to emotions in relation to thoughts, amplifying our ability to respond with kind inquiry and authenticity in our actions. Kanan Kapila adopts an integrative approach to Psychotherapy, drawing from Cognitive-Behavioral, Somatic Therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, and Mindfulness techniques. Through therapy, clients gain insight into the patterns shaping their personalities.
![Photo of Imran Rasid - Dr. Imran Rasid-Depression and Anxiety Therapist, NLP , MD, PhD, AW, CHT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/494003c6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Imran Rasid-Depression and Anxiety Therapist
NLP , MD, PhD, AW, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am a depression and anxiety therapist in New Jersey. I am dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses the needs of my patients and aims to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive and comfortable. Furthermore, I am committed to providing the best care possible for each of my patients and strive to create a healing and supportive environment. As a result, many of my patients have referred friends and family members to me, which is an additional testament to my excellence.
I am a depression and anxiety therapist in New Jersey. I am dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses the needs of my patients and aims to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive and comfortable. Furthermore, I am committed to providing the best care possible for each of my patients and strive to create a healing and supportive environment. As a result, many of my patients have referred friends and family members to me, which is an additional testament to my excellence.
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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.