Chronic Pain Therapists in Upper Saddle River, NJ

Photo of Lana Tiersky - Bergen Psychotherapy & Neuropsychology, Inc., PhD, Psychologist
Bergen Psychotherapy & Neuropsychology, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458
Waitlist for new clients
These include, attention disorders, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Post-covid Syndrome, chronic pain, psychological issues related to medical illnesses and disability, unexplained illness, depression and anxiety.
Please note, I am only taking patients affected by the current war in Israel. I am doing this as a community service. As a PhD Clinical Psychologist for over 25 years, I have worked with a wide range of patients including executives, veterans, students and parents. While everyone is unique, my approach to treatment generally focuses on helping the patient understand the connections between their thoughts, feelings and behaviors so that they ultimately can gain better control over all of them and find the personal meaning in their life.
These include, attention disorders, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Post-covid Syndrome, chronic pain, psychological issues related to medical illnesses and disability, unexplained illness, depression and anxiety.
Please note, I am only taking patients affected by the current war in Israel. I am doing this as a community service. As a PhD Clinical Psychologist for over 25 years, I have worked with a wide range of patients including executives, veterans, students and parents. While everyone is unique, my approach to treatment generally focuses on helping the patient understand the connections between their thoughts, feelings and behaviors so that they ultimately can gain better control over all of them and find the personal meaning in their life.
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Photo of Rachel Kaplan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals dealing with anxiety, life transitions, relationship dynamics, chronic illness, and perfectionism.
Maybe you're unsure of what is bothering you, but are aware that something isn’t working for you anymore. Perhaps you're supportive and patient with others, but are self-critical, high-achieving, and set unrealistic expectations for yourself. Maybe you're tired of worrying all the time or feeling stuck in cycles of thinking about the same things. Until now, you've likely been pushing yourself to cope with what you’ve been feeling on your own. If you tend to prioritize others, you may be hoping to learn how to set healthy boundaries and communicate assertively, so you can better tend to your own needs.
I specialize in working with individuals dealing with anxiety, life transitions, relationship dynamics, chronic illness, and perfectionism.
Maybe you're unsure of what is bothering you, but are aware that something isn’t working for you anymore. Perhaps you're supportive and patient with others, but are self-critical, high-achieving, and set unrealistic expectations for yourself. Maybe you're tired of worrying all the time or feeling stuck in cycles of thinking about the same things. Until now, you've likely been pushing yourself to cope with what you’ve been feeling on your own. If you tend to prioritize others, you may be hoping to learn how to set healthy boundaries and communicate assertively, so you can better tend to your own needs.
(646) 846-7008 View (646) 846-7008
Photo of Inna Matov Gluhovsky - Dr. Inna Matov, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Inna Matov
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458
As a psychologist, I assist people in acquiring greater creative and emotional competencies, reconnecting with themselves and significant others, and removing obstacles to personal happiness and joy. Psychotherapy is about personal growth, healing after emotional trauma and grief, and realizing one's fullest potential. In therapy sessions we examine meaningful relationships, communication styles, and barriers to success with a goal of restoring a sense of balance to your life and, by extension, to the lives of others who care deeply about you. For those who wish to deepen their self-understanding, we explore the unconscious by analyzing dreams, memories, and fantasies.
As a psychologist, I assist people in acquiring greater creative and emotional competencies, reconnecting with themselves and significant others, and removing obstacles to personal happiness and joy. Psychotherapy is about personal growth, healing after emotional trauma and grief, and realizing one's fullest potential. In therapy sessions we examine meaningful relationships, communication styles, and barriers to success with a goal of restoring a sense of balance to your life and, by extension, to the lives of others who care deeply about you. For those who wish to deepen their self-understanding, we explore the unconscious by analyzing dreams, memories, and fantasies.
(650) 516-6741 View (650) 516-6741
Photo of Barbara Samaan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara Samaan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458
Are you feeling tired, emotionally drained,or struggle to get out of bed? Do you experience painful emotions including anger, resentment, or shame? Are you repeating the cycle of unhealthy or self-destructive behavior? Does your child or teenager seem sad, anxious, or irritable? My name is Barbara Samaan. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have over 12 years of experience counseling children, adolescents and adults and working with individuals, couples, and families. Areas of expertise include: working with individuals with chronic illnesses, disability, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, faith based counseling, and trauma, abuse, and neglect.
Are you feeling tired, emotionally drained,or struggle to get out of bed? Do you experience painful emotions including anger, resentment, or shame? Are you repeating the cycle of unhealthy or self-destructive behavior? Does your child or teenager seem sad, anxious, or irritable? My name is Barbara Samaan. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have over 12 years of experience counseling children, adolescents and adults and working with individuals, couples, and families. Areas of expertise include: working with individuals with chronic illnesses, disability, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, faith based counseling, and trauma, abuse, and neglect.
(201) 470-6355 View (201) 470-6355
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Pre-Licensed Professional, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458  (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.
(973) 221-8926 View (973) 221-8926
Photo of Melinda Inzani, LCSW, CACYSW, C-AS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melinda Inzani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CACYSW, C-AS
Verified Verified
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458  (Online Only)
We all want to be our best self. As different and one-of a kind as we are, we all want similar things; to reach our goals and be happy. Having the ability to be more positive, forgiving, successful, valuable and loving are just a few things we desire. Finding the courage to speak our minds, feeling connected to each other, discovering what our hearts are searching for and remaining determined is something we all strive for. At the end of the day, we desire a sense of belonging, self-worth and the ability to have radical compassion.
We all want to be our best self. As different and one-of a kind as we are, we all want similar things; to reach our goals and be happy. Having the ability to be more positive, forgiving, successful, valuable and loving are just a few things we desire. Finding the courage to speak our minds, feeling connected to each other, discovering what our hearts are searching for and remaining determined is something we all strive for. At the end of the day, we desire a sense of belonging, self-worth and the ability to have radical compassion.
(551) 227-3336 View (551) 227-3336
Photo of Chris Henrici - Compete: Mental Performance Training, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Compete: Mental Performance Training
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458
Mental Performance Training (sometimes referred to as sport psychology) is the approach of harnessing the power of the mind to maximize performance. Mental skills have been used for decades. Any activity that requires performance can be enhanced through the knowledge and use of mental skills! So, what it boils down to is this: Do you believe that there is a mental side of performance? Have you ever experienced the phenomenon of being in the zone? Most athletes we work with do, yet few dedicate time toward training that aspect of their game. At Compete, we teach skills to hone the power of the mind to allow your thousands of hours of
Mental Performance Training (sometimes referred to as sport psychology) is the approach of harnessing the power of the mind to maximize performance. Mental skills have been used for decades. Any activity that requires performance can be enhanced through the knowledge and use of mental skills! So, what it boils down to is this: Do you believe that there is a mental side of performance? Have you ever experienced the phenomenon of being in the zone? Most athletes we work with do, yet few dedicate time toward training that aspect of their game. At Compete, we teach skills to hone the power of the mind to allow your thousands of hours of
(201) 331-6776 View (201) 331-6776
Photo of Ezra Cowan - The Center for OCD, PsyD, Psychologist
The Center for OCD
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458
Are you tired of avoiding and performing frustrating rituals to reduce anxiety and uncertainty? Do you find yourself stuck and unable to move on from unwanted scary thoughts? Are you ready and eager to live a much more flexible, relaxed, and connected life?
Are you tired of avoiding and performing frustrating rituals to reduce anxiety and uncertainty? Do you find yourself stuck and unable to move on from unwanted scary thoughts? Are you ready and eager to live a much more flexible, relaxed, and connected life?
(201) 298-7861 View (201) 298-7861
Photo of Melanie Zeman, MSW, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Zeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458
Do you feel overwhelmed, sad, anxious, or stuck in a pattern of behavior that is not making you happy? I am here to help. Together we can work to identify and overcome the issues that are preventing you from living your fullest life. I have over 15 years of clinical experience working with couples, teens, college age and adults, since obtaining my MSW from Fordham University.
Do you feel overwhelmed, sad, anxious, or stuck in a pattern of behavior that is not making you happy? I am here to help. Together we can work to identify and overcome the issues that are preventing you from living your fullest life. I have over 15 years of clinical experience working with couples, teens, college age and adults, since obtaining my MSW from Fordham University.
(201) 781-2901 View (201) 781-2901
Photo of Elizabeth T Hemmerlin Music Therapy, MA, MT-BC
Elizabeth T Hemmerlin Music Therapy
MA, MT-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified music therapist with experience in the psychiatric setting, the pediatric medical setting, dementia-related illness, developmental delays, and chronic pain and illness. I specialize in evidence based music therapy services to support mental and emotional health and wellness for children and adults struggling with depression/anxiety/stress, chronic medical conditions, dementia-related illness, and a wide array of other challenges.
I am a board-certified music therapist with experience in the psychiatric setting, the pediatric medical setting, dementia-related illness, developmental delays, and chronic pain and illness. I specialize in evidence based music therapy services to support mental and emotional health and wellness for children and adults struggling with depression/anxiety/stress, chronic medical conditions, dementia-related illness, and a wide array of other challenges.
(973) 556-2818 View (973) 556-2818

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Robert Galarowicz - Dr. Robert's Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy, ND, ACH, CH
Dr. Robert's Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy
ND, ACH, CH
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Discover How My Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy Service Can Help You ... If You Want To Improve Your Anxiety, Depression, Boost Confidence, or Improve Other Mental/Emotional Problems or Life Challenges I Have The Service FOR YOU! I ENJOY to help people & your Children use hypnosis and many mind-body therapies to improve their health. Discover how I can help you ... lose weight, stop smoking & addictions, sleep better, end stress/fear, be happy, control thoughts, change/build habits, end pain, and MORE ... Visit my other website http://www.drrobertg.com for $187 of FREE Goodies! Plus a no-charge phone
Discover How My Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy Service Can Help You ... If You Want To Improve Your Anxiety, Depression, Boost Confidence, or Improve Other Mental/Emotional Problems or Life Challenges I Have The Service FOR YOU! I ENJOY to help people & your Children use hypnosis and many mind-body therapies to improve their health. Discover how I can help you ... lose weight, stop smoking & addictions, sleep better, end stress/fear, be happy, control thoughts, change/build habits, end pain, and MORE ... Visit my other website http://www.drrobertg.com for $187 of FREE Goodies! Plus a no-charge phone
(201) 425-6339 View (201) 425-6339
Photo of Jeff Firsichbaum, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeff Firsichbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Saddle River, NJ 07458  (Online Only)
Over the years, I have treated many clients who are concerned about alcohol/substance abuse, intimacy/relationships, family dysfunction, divorce, re-marriage/step-parenting, chronic pain/ illness, mood disorders, sexual trauma and concerns, grief and loss, and adjustment to issues associated with Military life (pertaining to veterans and family members),.
As John Lennon wrote "Life is what happens when we're busy making other plans". In addition to re-adjusting to life after the pandemic, the political landscape may also lead to feeling somewhat disconnected from family and friends. Many people continue to experience anxiety, depression and relationship issues as a result. Most of my clients had initial reservations about trying telehealth but, much like everything else lately, we’re resilient and go with the flow. The benefits of telehealth are that you don’t have to travel, scheduling is much easier and you can be seen wherever you have internet (must be in NJ during session).
Over the years, I have treated many clients who are concerned about alcohol/substance abuse, intimacy/relationships, family dysfunction, divorce, re-marriage/step-parenting, chronic pain/ illness, mood disorders, sexual trauma and concerns, grief and loss, and adjustment to issues associated with Military life (pertaining to veterans and family members),.
As John Lennon wrote "Life is what happens when we're busy making other plans". In addition to re-adjusting to life after the pandemic, the political landscape may also lead to feeling somewhat disconnected from family and friends. Many people continue to experience anxiety, depression and relationship issues as a result. Most of my clients had initial reservations about trying telehealth but, much like everything else lately, we’re resilient and go with the flow. The benefits of telehealth are that you don’t have to travel, scheduling is much easier and you can be seen wherever you have internet (must be in NJ during session).
(732) 838-5531 View (732) 838-5531
Photo of Mary Beth Del Balzo, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Beth Del Balzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Saddle River, NJ 07458
Hypnosis specialties include weight issues, smoking cessation, joyful childbirth, pain management.
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.
Hypnosis specialties include weight issues, smoking cessation, joyful childbirth, pain management.
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.
(201) 292-5167 View (201) 292-5167
Photo of Laurie Engel, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Engel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Saddle River, NJ 07458  (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 Marjorie Sommer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marjorie Sommer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Increased awareness leads to a lessoning of pain and a greater sense of confidence.
Are you feeling that life is more difficult than it should be? Do you think you might be suffering from anxiety or depression? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand these feelings can be very painful, scary, and all-consuming. That is why I use a collaborative, non-judgmental approach during the course of therapy. My work begins with listening to my clients with compassion. Once that connection is made with a therapist, I believe the client is on the road to having a brighter future. I look forward to speaking with you, and answering your questions.
Increased awareness leads to a lessoning of pain and a greater sense of confidence.
Are you feeling that life is more difficult than it should be? Do you think you might be suffering from anxiety or depression? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand these feelings can be very painful, scary, and all-consuming. That is why I use a collaborative, non-judgmental approach during the course of therapy. My work begins with listening to my clients with compassion. Once that connection is made with a therapist, I believe the client is on the road to having a brighter future. I look forward to speaking with you, and answering your questions.
(201) 429-0624 View (201) 429-0624
Photo of Karin Williams, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karin Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677
She also focuses on pain management and women's issues, providing specialized support for those navigating midlife transitions and grief.
Karin Williams, LCSW, is a dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health, offering empathetic, client-centered care to individuals across New Jersey. She creates a safe and nonjudgmental environment, fostering therapeutic relationships that rekindle hope and help clients recognize their own strengths. Serving adults, seniors, and young adults aged 18 and up, Karin is committed to guiding her clients through their unique mental health journeys. Karin is particularly passionate about treating Adult ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
She also focuses on pain management and women's issues, providing specialized support for those navigating midlife transitions and grief.
Karin Williams, LCSW, is a dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health, offering empathetic, client-centered care to individuals across New Jersey. She creates a safe and nonjudgmental environment, fostering therapeutic relationships that rekindle hope and help clients recognize their own strengths. Serving adults, seniors, and young adults aged 18 and up, Karin is committed to guiding her clients through their unique mental health journeys. Karin is particularly passionate about treating Adult ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
(551) 210-4687 View (551) 210-4687
Photo of Stanley M Spergel, PsyD, Psychologist
Stanley M Spergel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677
Dr Stanley M. Spergel is a licensed psychologist, certified school psychologist and fellow of the American Orthopsychiatric Association with offices in Teaneck and Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. He is the founding director of the Family Resource Center and has been in both group and individual private practice since 1981. Dr Spergel specializes in treating children, adolescents and adults using a variety of treatment modalities and has a special interest in hypnotherapy.
Dr Stanley M. Spergel is a licensed psychologist, certified school psychologist and fellow of the American Orthopsychiatric Association with offices in Teaneck and Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. He is the founding director of the Family Resource Center and has been in both group and individual private practice since 1981. Dr Spergel specializes in treating children, adolescents and adults using a variety of treatment modalities and has a special interest in hypnotherapy.
(201) 391-8778 View (201) 391-8778
Photo of Kenneth Langlieb, PhD, Psychologist
Kenneth Langlieb
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Waldwick, NJ 07463
Modern Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Traditional Holistic approaches. Specialty: anxiety, fears, phobias, OCD, panic and especially Social Anxiety / Shyness. Also work on depression, negative thoughts, inner critic and personal / relationship issues. Free initial phone consultation..
Modern Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Traditional Holistic approaches. Specialty: anxiety, fears, phobias, OCD, panic and especially Social Anxiety / Shyness. Also work on depression, negative thoughts, inner critic and personal / relationship issues. Free initial phone consultation..
(551) 210-2552 View (551) 210-2552
Photo of Melanie Palmietto Somatic Therapist, MS, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Melanie Palmietto Somatic Therapist
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
You abandon your needs to please and appease others. You're stuck in survival mode, overwhelmed, anxious, lost in thought, thinking of the worst-case scenarios, avoiding tasks and responsibilities or working even harder to keep up. Maybe you've tried traditional talk therapy but did not see the change you were looking for. You still feel anxious, stuck, and have trouble saying no. You believe trauma and anxiety have a huge impact on our bodies, thought patterns, relationships, and so much more. You're not just looking for coping skills you're looking for long term change. If this is you you're in the right place!
You abandon your needs to please and appease others. You're stuck in survival mode, overwhelmed, anxious, lost in thought, thinking of the worst-case scenarios, avoiding tasks and responsibilities or working even harder to keep up. Maybe you've tried traditional talk therapy but did not see the change you were looking for. You still feel anxious, stuck, and have trouble saying no. You believe trauma and anxiety have a huge impact on our bodies, thought patterns, relationships, and so much more. You're not just looking for coping skills you're looking for long term change. If this is you you're in the right place!
(201) 371-7389 View (201) 371-7389
Photo of Roseanne C. Trapani, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roseanne C. Trapani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Bergen County, working with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of treatment needs. Areas of treatment include: Relationship counseling, divorce adjustment, relational discernment counseling, loss and grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, high functioning Autism, and mood disorders. In addition, I specialize in working with adolescents who are dealing with anxiety, peer pressure, academic stress, and bullying, in order to help them to develop psychological awareness and insight. My approach is integrative. Building upon your strengths and resilience, we will find solutions and healing together. Please contact me for a complimentary 15 minute phone consultation.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Bergen County, working with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of treatment needs. Areas of treatment include: Relationship counseling, divorce adjustment, relational discernment counseling, loss and grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, high functioning Autism, and mood disorders. In addition, I specialize in working with adolescents who are dealing with anxiety, peer pressure, academic stress, and bullying, in order to help them to develop psychological awareness and insight. My approach is integrative. Building upon your strengths and resilience, we will find solutions and healing together. Please contact me for a complimentary 15 minute phone consultation.
(201) 331-6551 View (201) 331-6551

See more therapy options for Upper Saddle River

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.