Chronic Pain Therapists in Bedford, NY

Photo of Rita Hayes, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rita Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Bedford, NY 10506
These symptoms can include anxiety, depression, chronic pain, PTSD, or relationship difficulties.
I offer a wide range of treatment modalities, including mind-body therapies as well as traditional psychotherapy. These include CBT, Somatic Experiencing (SE), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and EMDR. My style is active, engaging and focused on achieving client goals within a time limited framework. Having 30 years experience as a therapist, combined with specialty treatments, allows for shorter therapy time and a high degree of success. Lengthy therapy is unnecessary in order to experience positive results and achieve desired goals. I work with both individuals and couples.
These symptoms can include anxiety, depression, chronic pain, PTSD, or relationship difficulties.
I offer a wide range of treatment modalities, including mind-body therapies as well as traditional psychotherapy. These include CBT, Somatic Experiencing (SE), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and EMDR. My style is active, engaging and focused on achieving client goals within a time limited framework. Having 30 years experience as a therapist, combined with specialty treatments, allows for shorter therapy time and a high degree of success. Lengthy therapy is unnecessary in order to experience positive results and achieve desired goals. I work with both individuals and couples.
(914) 295-0843 View (914) 295-0843
Photo of Shoshana Beran, PsyD, Psychologist
Shoshana Beran
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bedford, NY 10506
If you struggle with: emotional pain from trauma, anxiety that interferes with living life to the fullest, debilitating depression from loss or chronic pain, obsessive behaviors or worries that block productive thoughts and actions, or have issues related to family, work, or social relationships, I can help!.
I am a New York and Arizona State licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience. I provide individual psychotherapy to older adolescents and adults. I provide insight-oriented therapy. I utilize this approach because it focuses on understanding the connections between your thoughts and feelings in an effort to improve your ability to make change, be in control of your life, and ultimately feel better. I specialize in empowering my clients to confront their issues, gain advanced coping skills, and achieve desired change. I envision therapy as a collaborative effort, and want my clients to feel heard and understood.
If you struggle with: emotional pain from trauma, anxiety that interferes with living life to the fullest, debilitating depression from loss or chronic pain, obsessive behaviors or worries that block productive thoughts and actions, or have issues related to family, work, or social relationships, I can help!.
I am a New York and Arizona State licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience. I provide individual psychotherapy to older adolescents and adults. I provide insight-oriented therapy. I utilize this approach because it focuses on understanding the connections between your thoughts and feelings in an effort to improve your ability to make change, be in control of your life, and ultimately feel better. I specialize in empowering my clients to confront their issues, gain advanced coping skills, and achieve desired change. I envision therapy as a collaborative effort, and want my clients to feel heard and understood.
(914) 266-9773 View (914) 266-9773
Photo of Karen Fleming-Sherman, MSN, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Fleming-Sherman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSN, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, NY 10506
Are you tired of getting caught in the same old fights with your partner/spouse, kids, ex-husband or wife, parent(s), siblings, boss? Suffering from a serious illness in yourself or someone in your family? Dissatisfied with the quality of your life and relationships? Are you struggling with parenting issues? Dealing with loss? In a comfortable, non judgmental environment, you will discover the tools to navigate the sometimes stormy waters of life and make your relationships more fulfilling. I will be an active participant in the therapeutic process by giving you feedback and out of session assignments.
Are you tired of getting caught in the same old fights with your partner/spouse, kids, ex-husband or wife, parent(s), siblings, boss? Suffering from a serious illness in yourself or someone in your family? Dissatisfied with the quality of your life and relationships? Are you struggling with parenting issues? Dealing with loss? In a comfortable, non judgmental environment, you will discover the tools to navigate the sometimes stormy waters of life and make your relationships more fulfilling. I will be an active participant in the therapeutic process by giving you feedback and out of session assignments.
(914) 215-5055 View (914) 215-5055
Trudie Goldmann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bedford, NY 10506
I am a licensed Psychologist with over 20 years experience working with adults and older adolescents. I currently see people struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationship and interpersonal issues. I see many people who experience stress and symptoms associated with life transitions, such as adolescence, marriage/divorce, new parenthood, chronic illness, unemployment/underemployment, retirement and aging.I believe therapy is a collaboration to which I bring warmth, curiosity, a non-judgmental nature and an appreciation of individual differences.
I am a licensed Psychologist with over 20 years experience working with adults and older adolescents. I currently see people struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationship and interpersonal issues. I see many people who experience stress and symptoms associated with life transitions, such as adolescence, marriage/divorce, new parenthood, chronic illness, unemployment/underemployment, retirement and aging.I believe therapy is a collaboration to which I bring warmth, curiosity, a non-judgmental nature and an appreciation of individual differences.
(914) 380-3793 View (914) 380-3793
Photo of Wayne Gersh - Westchester Center for Behavior Therapy, PhD, Psychologist
Westchester Center for Behavior Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bedford, NY 10506
I have co-authored two books on treating cancer and work well with illness and stress related problems.
I have been in practice for over 40 years and I feel that my best client is the person who recognizes that they could use someone like myself to help them alter their thoughts and behaviors that are impeding their progress. I have worked well with issues related to mood such as anxiety and depression, but also with stress related disorders. If you believe that life would be better if you only knew how to change your thinking,feeling and behavior, then I am your therapist.
I have co-authored two books on treating cancer and work well with illness and stress related problems.
I have been in practice for over 40 years and I feel that my best client is the person who recognizes that they could use someone like myself to help them alter their thoughts and behaviors that are impeding their progress. I have worked well with issues related to mood such as anxiety and depression, but also with stress related disorders. If you believe that life would be better if you only knew how to change your thinking,feeling and behavior, then I am your therapist.
(914) 302-5207 View (914) 302-5207
Photo of Shari Harris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shari Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bedford, NY 10506  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience as a practicing therapist. I offer a safe therapeutic environment for older adolescents and adults dealing with a wide range of issues that include depression, anxiety, bereavement, couples/marital discord, trauma, addiction, chronic and terminal illness, and life transitions. I work with individuals, couples and groups.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience as a practicing therapist. I offer a safe therapeutic environment for older adolescents and adults dealing with a wide range of issues that include depression, anxiety, bereavement, couples/marital discord, trauma, addiction, chronic and terminal illness, and life transitions. I work with individuals, couples and groups.
(914) 873-0102 View (914) 873-0102
Photo of Jo Anne Gorski, PhD, Psychologist
Jo Anne Gorski
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bedford, NY 10506
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome. I am a clinical psychologist who has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families with a wide range of behavioral, emotional and medical problems. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is provided in a warm, nurturing environment. This approach is highly effective, result-oriented, and goal-focused and is best suited for individuals who want to play an active role in making positive changes in their lives. Problems addressed include: anxiety, depression, anger, obsessive-compulsive disorder, behavioral disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, weight management, compliance with medical care, chronic pain, and coping with life stressors (grief/loss, illness, and bullying).
Welcome. I am a clinical psychologist who has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families with a wide range of behavioral, emotional and medical problems. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is provided in a warm, nurturing environment. This approach is highly effective, result-oriented, and goal-focused and is best suited for individuals who want to play an active role in making positive changes in their lives. Problems addressed include: anxiety, depression, anger, obsessive-compulsive disorder, behavioral disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, weight management, compliance with medical care, chronic pain, and coping with life stressors (grief/loss, illness, and bullying).
(914) 299-6006 View (914) 299-6006
Photo of Andrea Spirn, PhD, Psychologist
Andrea Spirn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bedford, NY 10506
Debilitating anxiety, depression and chronic pain can benefit from other targeted treatments, such as Exposure & Response Prevention for OCD, CBT & mindfulness-based approaches, which we can discuss together.
The experience of feeling truly heard and understood is in itself powerful and healing. If you are considering beginning therapy, you may feel alone with your suffering, suffocated or paralyzed by seemingly insurmountable problems. Within the safety and trust of the therapeutic relationship we develop, I will listen closely to you and remain present with your experience. We will work together to help you gain a sense of spaciousness, self-compassion and control around the issues that bring you to treatment.
Debilitating anxiety, depression and chronic pain can benefit from other targeted treatments, such as Exposure & Response Prevention for OCD, CBT & mindfulness-based approaches, which we can discuss together.
The experience of feeling truly heard and understood is in itself powerful and healing. If you are considering beginning therapy, you may feel alone with your suffering, suffocated or paralyzed by seemingly insurmountable problems. Within the safety and trust of the therapeutic relationship we develop, I will listen closely to you and remain present with your experience. We will work together to help you gain a sense of spaciousness, self-compassion and control around the issues that bring you to treatment.
(914) 344-2099 View (914) 344-2099
Photo of Sara Weale - Day By Day Counseling PLLC, Sara Weale, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Day By Day Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Sara Weale, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Bedford, NY 10506
Hello! Thanks for visiting the virtual home of Day By Day Counseling LCSW, PLLC – a private practice dedicated to supporting adults who find themselves experiencing loss and change. I am a licensed clinical social worker and Certified Grief Educator by David Kessler + Grief.com. I have worked in care settings for frail older adults including those living with dementia and also provided support to caregivers, family and patients at the end of life. I provide empathetic and compassionate therapeutic services to adults experiencing grief related to death, chronic illness, medical trauma, ambiguous loss and the end of relationships.
Hello! Thanks for visiting the virtual home of Day By Day Counseling LCSW, PLLC – a private practice dedicated to supporting adults who find themselves experiencing loss and change. I am a licensed clinical social worker and Certified Grief Educator by David Kessler + Grief.com. I have worked in care settings for frail older adults including those living with dementia and also provided support to caregivers, family and patients at the end of life. I provide empathetic and compassionate therapeutic services to adults experiencing grief related to death, chronic illness, medical trauma, ambiguous loss and the end of relationships.
(914) 340-1073 View (914) 340-1073
Photo of Jason Duncan, PhD, Psychologist
Jason Duncan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bedford, NY 10506
I am a psychologist providing therapy and assessment services for children through adults. I have extensive clinical experience and am an expert Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I’ve been trained by top therapy institutes, am a board member for well accomplished CBT organizations, and run the official podcast for the national CBT organization. I strive to regularly advance my knowledge and provide leading scientific treatments. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, panic, OCD, trauma, stress, insomnia, ADHD, defiance, and work/school issues. Many of my clients lead busy lives; therefore, I offer evening appointments.
I am a psychologist providing therapy and assessment services for children through adults. I have extensive clinical experience and am an expert Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I’ve been trained by top therapy institutes, am a board member for well accomplished CBT organizations, and run the official podcast for the national CBT organization. I strive to regularly advance my knowledge and provide leading scientific treatments. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, panic, OCD, trauma, stress, insomnia, ADHD, defiance, and work/school issues. Many of my clients lead busy lives; therefore, I offer evening appointments.
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Photo of James E. Blechman, LCSW-R, LMFT, LP, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James E. Blechman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LMFT, LP, CGP
Verified Verified
Bedford, NY 10506
Relationship expert/infidelity issues. AASECT certified sex therapist, licensed Marriage and Family therapist, licensed psychoanalyst, licensed clinical psychiatric social worker. I've been in practice for over 25 years and during that time I've been able to treat a wide range of emotional problems in individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families. Discovering the underlying causes of symptoms is the best way to produce a lasting cure. Through our work together you will attain a resolution or reduction of symptoms, gain a deeper self understanding and acceptance, and function authentically at your best in all aspects of your life.
Relationship expert/infidelity issues. AASECT certified sex therapist, licensed Marriage and Family therapist, licensed psychoanalyst, licensed clinical psychiatric social worker. I've been in practice for over 25 years and during that time I've been able to treat a wide range of emotional problems in individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families. Discovering the underlying causes of symptoms is the best way to produce a lasting cure. Through our work together you will attain a resolution or reduction of symptoms, gain a deeper self understanding and acceptance, and function authentically at your best in all aspects of your life.
(914) 297-9783 View (914) 297-9783
Photo of Peter Kaplan - Dr Peter Kaplan, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr Peter Kaplan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bedford, NY 10506
I am a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience helping people to achieve emotional health, vitality and well being. My clients are typically successful and educated, but might be wrestling with depression and anxiety, or seeking help with family, career, or relationship issues. I will work with you to build your strengths, capitalize on inner resources and solve unresolved issues.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience helping people to achieve emotional health, vitality and well being. My clients are typically successful and educated, but might be wrestling with depression and anxiety, or seeking help with family, career, or relationship issues. I will work with you to build your strengths, capitalize on inner resources and solve unresolved issues.
(845) 538-4201 View (845) 538-4201
Photo of Aileen Blitz, PhD, Psychologist
Aileen Blitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bedford, NY 10506
Dr. Blitz is a licensed Clinical Psychologist working with adults in psychoanalytically oriented psychotherapy. Her practice is grounded in the principals of interpersonal/relational psychotherapy, object relations , early development and attachment theory. She utilizes clinical hypnotherapy to treat symptoms of anxiety. She works in a collaborative manner. She is currently working virtually and plans to see people virtually and in person, in Mount Kisco/ Bedford, NY in 7/2023. Her specialty is in medical psychology, depression and anxiety, divorce, infertility, family/ work issues and life transitions. She also works with couples.
Dr. Blitz is a licensed Clinical Psychologist working with adults in psychoanalytically oriented psychotherapy. Her practice is grounded in the principals of interpersonal/relational psychotherapy, object relations , early development and attachment theory. She utilizes clinical hypnotherapy to treat symptoms of anxiety. She works in a collaborative manner. She is currently working virtually and plans to see people virtually and in person, in Mount Kisco/ Bedford, NY in 7/2023. Her specialty is in medical psychology, depression and anxiety, divorce, infertility, family/ work issues and life transitions. She also works with couples.
(917) 831-4237 View (917) 831-4237
Photo of Dave Dodge, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dave Dodge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, NY 10506  (Online Only)
Getting to this point was probably not easy for you but, believe it or not, from Crisis Comes Opportunity. The more we resist dealing with our issues the more they persist and even get worse. But, the more we look at them, the more they disappear, allowing us to feel lighter, freer and happier. And, it may please you to know that your issues are not who you really are. They were "given" to you by your negative life experiences, creating your negative thoughts and beliefs now causing you to feel and behave in a negative manner. I will help you release your negative thoughts & beliefs so you can feel happier and more positive in life.
Getting to this point was probably not easy for you but, believe it or not, from Crisis Comes Opportunity. The more we resist dealing with our issues the more they persist and even get worse. But, the more we look at them, the more they disappear, allowing us to feel lighter, freer and happier. And, it may please you to know that your issues are not who you really are. They were "given" to you by your negative life experiences, creating your negative thoughts and beliefs now causing you to feel and behave in a negative manner. I will help you release your negative thoughts & beliefs so you can feel happier and more positive in life.
(914) 295-0413 View (914) 295-0413
Photo of Anna Allmann, PhD, Psychologist
Anna Allmann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bedford, NY 10506
Hi! I’m a licensed clinical psychologist (PhD) serving NYS, NJ, CT, and FL. I specialize in treating anxiety and OCD; however, I welcome individuals experiencing a wide range of challenges. I believe in building a strong relationship with each client using a non-judgmental, compassionate stance to improve treatment outcomes. Growth and personal exploration are facilitated as you learn skills to cope and thrive through adversity. I utilize cognitive behavior therapy, exposure and response prevention, and acceptance and commitment therapy, and I integrate components of other orientations as appropriate for each individual.
Hi! I’m a licensed clinical psychologist (PhD) serving NYS, NJ, CT, and FL. I specialize in treating anxiety and OCD; however, I welcome individuals experiencing a wide range of challenges. I believe in building a strong relationship with each client using a non-judgmental, compassionate stance to improve treatment outcomes. Growth and personal exploration are facilitated as you learn skills to cope and thrive through adversity. I utilize cognitive behavior therapy, exposure and response prevention, and acceptance and commitment therapy, and I integrate components of other orientations as appropriate for each individual.
(914) 533-1071 View (914) 533-1071
Photo of Adam Barta - Head In the Right Direction Counseling Services, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Head In the Right Direction Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Bedford, NY 10506
We have been helping people learn how to make the changes they want since 2008. Relationship woes? Existential Angst? Have a troubled teen or child in trouble? Feel stuck your life? You are not alone. There are other people out here going through this too. This is temporary. We will reach out to you, discuss your needs, and pair you with a therapist familiar with your needs. Together, you will meet, identify issues, collaborate to create a plan, follow through with some reasonable interventions, and figure out ways to make the changes last.
We have been helping people learn how to make the changes they want since 2008. Relationship woes? Existential Angst? Have a troubled teen or child in trouble? Feel stuck your life? You are not alone. There are other people out here going through this too. This is temporary. We will reach out to you, discuss your needs, and pair you with a therapist familiar with your needs. Together, you will meet, identify issues, collaborate to create a plan, follow through with some reasonable interventions, and figure out ways to make the changes last.
(646) 819-0218 View (646) 819-0218
Photo of Dr. Melissa Jermann, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Melissa Jermann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bedford, NY 10506
Do you feel trapped in cycles of anxiety and intrusive thoughts or burnt out from the stress of high expectations? Are you ready to try something different from talk therapy? At Mindful Psychological Services PLLC, we work with clients to guide them in reclaiming their lives back from tough emotions by reconnecting to their values. Together, we will figure out which approach works best for you. Whether that be ERP for OCD, ACT for anxiety, or understanding how past traumas influence your life. Our integrative approach emphasizes a combination of modern evidence-based treatments and insight to make real, meaningful change.
Do you feel trapped in cycles of anxiety and intrusive thoughts or burnt out from the stress of high expectations? Are you ready to try something different from talk therapy? At Mindful Psychological Services PLLC, we work with clients to guide them in reclaiming their lives back from tough emotions by reconnecting to their values. Together, we will figure out which approach works best for you. Whether that be ERP for OCD, ACT for anxiety, or understanding how past traumas influence your life. Our integrative approach emphasizes a combination of modern evidence-based treatments and insight to make real, meaningful change.
(646) 893-7523 View (646) 893-7523

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Annalisa Sciullo, PhD, Psychologist
Annalisa Sciullo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Salem, NY 10560  (Online Only)
We are all traveling on this journey we call life. While it can be full of moments of beauty, joy, and wonder, it can also plunge us into the depths of fear, darkness, and loneliness. We can be trapped in an endless chorus of worry, weighed down by expectations from ourselves and others, full of doubt and struggling to see our own worth or a way forward, and sometimes even our own bodies feel like they are abandoning us. Allow me to be a guide for whatever path you are on. You do not have to do it alone. My specialty areas include helping adults with anxiety, depression, chronic pain and medical conditions, insomnia, and trauma.
We are all traveling on this journey we call life. While it can be full of moments of beauty, joy, and wonder, it can also plunge us into the depths of fear, darkness, and loneliness. We can be trapped in an endless chorus of worry, weighed down by expectations from ourselves and others, full of doubt and struggling to see our own worth or a way forward, and sometimes even our own bodies feel like they are abandoning us. Allow me to be a guide for whatever path you are on. You do not have to do it alone. My specialty areas include helping adults with anxiety, depression, chronic pain and medical conditions, insomnia, and trauma.
(914) 444-2732 View (914) 444-2732
Photo of Willann Stone, PhD, Psychologist
Willann Stone
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ossining, NY 10562
I am a New York State licensed clinical psychologist and have been in private practice for over 25 years. I have extensive experience working with issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, illness, and loss. In addition to my private practice I have been the Director of Psychological and Neuropsychological Services in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at Jacobi Medical Center and North Central Bronx Hospital in New York City for the past 25 years.
I am a New York State licensed clinical psychologist and have been in private practice for over 25 years. I have extensive experience working with issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, illness, and loss. In addition to my private practice I have been the Director of Psychological and Neuropsychological Services in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at Jacobi Medical Center and North Central Bronx Hospital in New York City for the past 25 years.
(646) 768-0889 View (646) 768-0889
Photo of Jill Silverman, PhD, Psychologist
Jill Silverman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chappaqua, NY 10514
People with whom I have worked have had a variety of problems, such as adjustment disorders, PTSD, chronic illness, depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, dissociative disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, chronic pain disorders and trauma.
Choosing a psychologist with whom you will feel comfortable is an important and personal decision. In response to many requests, I have expanded my teletherapy hours. Whether in my office, or via the internet, my approaches reflects my fundamental commitment to diminish distress and foster resiliency. In my 30+ years of practice, it has been my privilege to assist many people in attaining a life reflective of their strengths and goals. Whether psychological/social issues, trauma, disaster exposure, medical problems, or other concerns are affecting how you feel and/or function, working together, we could improve your life and health.
People with whom I have worked have had a variety of problems, such as adjustment disorders, PTSD, chronic illness, depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, dissociative disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, chronic pain disorders and trauma.
Choosing a psychologist with whom you will feel comfortable is an important and personal decision. In response to many requests, I have expanded my teletherapy hours. Whether in my office, or via the internet, my approaches reflects my fundamental commitment to diminish distress and foster resiliency. In my 30+ years of practice, it has been my privilege to assist many people in attaining a life reflective of their strengths and goals. Whether psychological/social issues, trauma, disaster exposure, medical problems, or other concerns are affecting how you feel and/or function, working together, we could improve your life and health.
(203) 296-3215 View (203) 296-3215
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.