Chronic Pain Therapists in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Eve Mugar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eve Mugar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11249  (Online Only)
Underneath the layers of pain, uncertainty and fear lies your true self; an internal space of ease, compassion and safety you will learn to come home to regardless of what is happening in your life.
EMDR, IFS, Mindfulness and Psychodynamic therapy for trauma/PTSD, anxiety, chronic pain, and more. Gottman and Mindfulness for couples. On a daily basis many of us feel overwhelmed, stressed, fearful of what the future holds and weighed down by the past. I am here to guide you in a process of uncovering the inner resources that will allow you to ride the waves of life with confidence, ease and flexibility. The journey begins with a willingness to look inside and compassionately witness the stories that have shaped you.
Underneath the layers of pain, uncertainty and fear lies your true self; an internal space of ease, compassion and safety you will learn to come home to regardless of what is happening in your life.
EMDR, IFS, Mindfulness and Psychodynamic therapy for trauma/PTSD, anxiety, chronic pain, and more. Gottman and Mindfulness for couples. On a daily basis many of us feel overwhelmed, stressed, fearful of what the future holds and weighed down by the past. I am here to guide you in a process of uncovering the inner resources that will allow you to ride the waves of life with confidence, ease and flexibility. The journey begins with a willingness to look inside and compassionately witness the stories that have shaped you.
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Photo of Hannah Neumann, PhD, Psychologist
Hannah Neumann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of what are often interconnected problems (mood and anxiety disorders, chronic pain, and trauma), as well as the treatment of behaviors that can develop in response, such as substance use (in an effort to self-medicate). I believe we all do the best we can to cope with pain, using whatever skills we have available. And yet sometimes our best efforts to avoid suffering can serve to keep us stuck retreading the same paths. Step by step, let's venture forward in our work together, letting suffering subside as we uncover meaning, learning to live more full and valued lives.
I specialize in the treatment of what are often interconnected problems (mood and anxiety disorders, chronic pain, and trauma), as well as the treatment of behaviors that can develop in response, such as substance use (in an effort to self-medicate). I believe we all do the best we can to cope with pain, using whatever skills we have available. And yet sometimes our best efforts to avoid suffering can serve to keep us stuck retreading the same paths. Step by step, let's venture forward in our work together, letting suffering subside as we uncover meaning, learning to live more full and valued lives.
(908) 648-3769 View (908) 648-3769
Photo of Jess Freedman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jess Freedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Together, we’ll work to change how you relate to your pain and, more importantly, how you relate to yourself.
Chances are, if you are seeking therapy to help you cope with chronic pain, this is not the first thing you’ve tried. I recognize that you have been suffering for a long time. Not just because it’s painful to feel physical pain, but it’s also psychologically painful to feel the emotional hurt that comes with trying so hard and for so long to explain your experience in an attempt to be understood, only to be misunderstood. I am sensitive to the fact that I am not the first provider you’ve come to in order to find relief. I know how much strength it takes to find yourself here. I’m glad that this is where we get to meet.
Together, we’ll work to change how you relate to your pain and, more importantly, how you relate to yourself.
Chances are, if you are seeking therapy to help you cope with chronic pain, this is not the first thing you’ve tried. I recognize that you have been suffering for a long time. Not just because it’s painful to feel physical pain, but it’s also psychologically painful to feel the emotional hurt that comes with trying so hard and for so long to explain your experience in an attempt to be understood, only to be misunderstood. I am sensitive to the fact that I am not the first provider you’ve come to in order to find relief. I know how much strength it takes to find yourself here. I’m glad that this is where we get to meet.
(929) 460-8492 View (929) 460-8492
Photo of Doug George, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Doug George
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
I work with adults of diverse ages, backgrounds and experiences, facing challenges such as anxiety and stress management, loneliness, depression and low self-esteem, adult ADHD, personal loss and chronic illness.
I see therapy as a collaboration, where we work together to identify and address the things that may be holding you back. My approach is both supportive and practical, aimed at creating immediate and sustainable change.
I work with adults of diverse ages, backgrounds and experiences, facing challenges such as anxiety and stress management, loneliness, depression and low self-esteem, adult ADHD, personal loss and chronic illness.
I see therapy as a collaboration, where we work together to identify and address the things that may be holding you back. My approach is both supportive and practical, aimed at creating immediate and sustainable change.
(646) 846-8196 View (646) 846-8196
Photo of Hadley Maya, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hadley Maya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11249
I have extensive training in couple and family therapy and, having worked in a medical setting for the past eight years, I have expertise in helping individuals and families who are affected by illness, loss, and grief.
Therapy has the power to help you unlock your full potential, and to enhance your connection to yourself and the people in your life. I specialize in helping people who: experience dissatisfying patterns and dynamics in relationships with family, friends, partners, and at work, struggle with anxiety, depression, and other forms of emotional distress, are experiencing a significant loss or another major life transition; feel disconnected and are looking for a greater sense of fulfilment in life.
I have extensive training in couple and family therapy and, having worked in a medical setting for the past eight years, I have expertise in helping individuals and families who are affected by illness, loss, and grief.
Therapy has the power to help you unlock your full potential, and to enhance your connection to yourself and the people in your life. I specialize in helping people who: experience dissatisfying patterns and dynamics in relationships with family, friends, partners, and at work, struggle with anxiety, depression, and other forms of emotional distress, are experiencing a significant loss or another major life transition; feel disconnected and are looking for a greater sense of fulfilment in life.
(347) 338-6737 View (347) 338-6737
Photo of Carolyn Gartner - The Center for Integrated Grief, LCSW, FT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Center for Integrated Grief
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, FT
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
Are you seeking relief for loss of a loved one? Do you feel deep in grief? Are you a stressed out caregiver? Coping with chronic illness? Processing feelings in a safe environment can improve your improve your sleep and help you find a feeling of security. I have an advanced certification in grief counseling and am a fellow in Thanatology, the study of death, dying and bereavement. Thanatology encompasses grief models and theories.
Are you seeking relief for loss of a loved one? Do you feel deep in grief? Are you a stressed out caregiver? Coping with chronic illness? Processing feelings in a safe environment can improve your improve your sleep and help you find a feeling of security. I have an advanced certification in grief counseling and am a fellow in Thanatology, the study of death, dying and bereavement. Thanatology encompasses grief models and theories.
(646) 846-9332 View (646) 846-9332
Photo of Kristen DiNitto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen DiNitto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211  (Online Only)
Stress and trauma impact all aspects of our well-being. In many ways our physical health, emotions, thoughts, spirituality, and hopes for the future may be affected. We may struggle with relationships, work, life transitions, anxiety, stress, trauma, loss and grief, chronic illness and pain or other issues. Create space for yourself to engage in a restorative, empowering therapeutic experience and receive the support you deserve.
Stress and trauma impact all aspects of our well-being. In many ways our physical health, emotions, thoughts, spirituality, and hopes for the future may be affected. We may struggle with relationships, work, life transitions, anxiety, stress, trauma, loss and grief, chronic illness and pain or other issues. Create space for yourself to engage in a restorative, empowering therapeutic experience and receive the support you deserve.
(347) 967-3419 View (347) 967-3419
Photo of Karen Lutwin, PsyD, Psychologist
Karen Lutwin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211
I work with people with suffer from debilitating pain by using John Sarno's TMS treatment modality.
I offer a safe authentic relationship and would describe my style as warm, engaged,and sensitive. I consider myself an integrative therapist. As such, I tend to adapt my approach to therapy by individualizing my clients and by matching therapeutic interventions. I often incorporate psychodynamic, relational, and cognitive behavioral theory and techniques in my work. I enjoy helping individuals and couples identify and change destructive behaviors that interfere with their happiness and build more satisfying relationships. I work with people who suffer with chronic pain using a specialized treatment that connects the mind and body.
I work with people with suffer from debilitating pain by using John Sarno's TMS treatment modality.
I offer a safe authentic relationship and would describe my style as warm, engaged,and sensitive. I consider myself an integrative therapist. As such, I tend to adapt my approach to therapy by individualizing my clients and by matching therapeutic interventions. I often incorporate psychodynamic, relational, and cognitive behavioral theory and techniques in my work. I enjoy helping individuals and couples identify and change destructive behaviors that interfere with their happiness and build more satisfying relationships. I work with people who suffer with chronic pain using a specialized treatment that connects the mind and body.
(646) 807-4174 View (646) 807-4174
Photo of Nicole C Pernod, PsyD, MSEd, RYT, Psychologist
Nicole C Pernod
Psychologist, PsyD, MSEd, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211  (Online Only)
Therapy is for anyone looking to make a change, expand their horizons, or heal. Are you struggling with mood symptoms? Do you have a history of trauma but feel afraid talking about it will unleash pain? I am a trauma specialist and have helped people all over the world move forward from the gripping effects of PTSD and C-PTSD. Healing parts of yourself will ultimately have a positive ripple effect in your life. I will work at your own pace and offer tools that can be utilized inside and outside of our sessions. Together, we can build a new chapter of your life that enables connection, improved performance, and most importantly-joy.
Therapy is for anyone looking to make a change, expand their horizons, or heal. Are you struggling with mood symptoms? Do you have a history of trauma but feel afraid talking about it will unleash pain? I am a trauma specialist and have helped people all over the world move forward from the gripping effects of PTSD and C-PTSD. Healing parts of yourself will ultimately have a positive ripple effect in your life. I will work at your own pace and offer tools that can be utilized inside and outside of our sessions. Together, we can build a new chapter of your life that enables connection, improved performance, and most importantly-joy.
(347) 696-4315 View (347) 696-4315
Photo of Kasie Okeya, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kasie Okeya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Hey there! My name is Kasie. I'm a seasoned therapist with 15 years in the social work field. My passion is helping people navigate life's challenges and find their unique path to healing and growth. I specialize in a broad range of areas, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and chronic illness. My approach is multifaceted, incorporating solution-focused brief therapy, exposure therapy, mindfulness, applied behavior analysis, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Hey there! My name is Kasie. I'm a seasoned therapist with 15 years in the social work field. My passion is helping people navigate life's challenges and find their unique path to healing and growth. I specialize in a broad range of areas, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and chronic illness. My approach is multifaceted, incorporating solution-focused brief therapy, exposure therapy, mindfulness, applied behavior analysis, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
(212) 362-4490 View (212) 362-4490
Photo of Melanie Berkowitz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Berkowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211
My practice is rooted in the wisdom that we cannot grow, or face our challenges and pain alone.
Do you struggle to know what you want? Is it hard to commit? In a time of so much uncertainty, it can be difficult to make decisions.  Maybe you feel blocked professionally or creatively. Or, like a lot of us, your struggles show up in your closest relationships. Maybe you’ve dealt with the weight of other people’s expectations and find it hard to listen to yourself or trust your own voice. Or maybe you worry you’ll be misunderstood. Sometimes you wish someone would just tell you what to do, but that leaves you feeling constrained and inauthentic. 
My practice is rooted in the wisdom that we cannot grow, or face our challenges and pain alone.
Do you struggle to know what you want? Is it hard to commit? In a time of so much uncertainty, it can be difficult to make decisions.  Maybe you feel blocked professionally or creatively. Or, like a lot of us, your struggles show up in your closest relationships. Maybe you’ve dealt with the weight of other people’s expectations and find it hard to listen to yourself or trust your own voice. Or maybe you worry you’ll be misunderstood. Sometimes you wish someone would just tell you what to do, but that leaves you feeling constrained and inauthentic. 
(929) 296-8531 View (929) 296-8531
Photo of Erica Lamoureux, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Lamoureux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211  (Online Only)
I have specialized experience working with the LGBTQIA population, chronic pain, nontraditional/relationships, trauma, and shame.
The brain, like the body, has a way of healing itself when provided the environment it needs to do so. I offer a calm and nurturing space for us to develop curiosity and capacity for change together. Much of my work is grounded in compassion and self-observation as a tool for both understanding and change. Whether you are looking for a specific change within yourself or seeking understanding in a broader sense, I will provide a warm and empathic environment to explore these issues. My style balances serious reflection with moments for humor and connection.
I have specialized experience working with the LGBTQIA population, chronic pain, nontraditional/relationships, trauma, and shame.
The brain, like the body, has a way of healing itself when provided the environment it needs to do so. I offer a calm and nurturing space for us to develop curiosity and capacity for change together. Much of my work is grounded in compassion and self-observation as a tool for both understanding and change. Whether you are looking for a specific change within yourself or seeking understanding in a broader sense, I will provide a warm and empathic environment to explore these issues. My style balances serious reflection with moments for humor and connection.
(646) 718-3530 View (646) 718-3530
Photo of Idil Ozturk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Idil Ozturk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211  (Online Only)
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and positive environment for clients to understand themselves better and increase self-compassion. Together, we'll explore your goals for therapy and I will give you feedback and actionable tools to help you navigate life’s challenges and build insight and resilience. I use a trauma-informed and attachment-based lens, and emphasize skill-building techniques. I work with clients who have anxiety, relationship issues, complex or chronic trauma, chronic illness, insomnia, ADHD and immigration/first gen American identities.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and positive environment for clients to understand themselves better and increase self-compassion. Together, we'll explore your goals for therapy and I will give you feedback and actionable tools to help you navigate life’s challenges and build insight and resilience. I use a trauma-informed and attachment-based lens, and emphasize skill-building techniques. I work with clients who have anxiety, relationship issues, complex or chronic trauma, chronic illness, insomnia, ADHD and immigration/first gen American identities.
(646) 793-9587 View (646) 793-9587
Photo of Daniel Frazer, LMSW
Daniel Frazer
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211  (Online Only)
Daniel's clinical work focuses on clients who may be neurodiverse (Autism/ADHD), men's issues, and those facing chronic illnesses and pain. He has extensive experience working within higher education settings with college students and with those diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. He uses a psychodynamic perspective with focus on the everyday symbols and narratives which construct individuals lives. Daniel has received post-graduate training in cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma interventions.
Daniel's clinical work focuses on clients who may be neurodiverse (Autism/ADHD), men's issues, and those facing chronic illnesses and pain. He has extensive experience working within higher education settings with college students and with those diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. He uses a psychodynamic perspective with focus on the everyday symbols and narratives which construct individuals lives. Daniel has received post-graduate training in cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma interventions.
(332) 263-3949 View (332) 263-3949
Photo of Megan (Gem) Moran, MA, LMHC, RYT-200, Counselor
Megan (Gem) Moran
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211  (Online Only)
I am on your side. I provide a safe and nurturing therapy relationship dedicated entirely to your healing and happiness. I work with people to transform issues around anxiety, sadness, unwanted patterns, change, feeling stuck, difficult emotions & moods, dissatisfaction, relationship issues, anger, boundaries, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, illness, abuse, isolation, addiction, career, family, sexuality, and more. I am in network with some insurances and I am happy to supply you with documentation for out-of-network coverage/reimbursement.
I am on your side. I provide a safe and nurturing therapy relationship dedicated entirely to your healing and happiness. I work with people to transform issues around anxiety, sadness, unwanted patterns, change, feeling stuck, difficult emotions & moods, dissatisfaction, relationship issues, anger, boundaries, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, illness, abuse, isolation, addiction, career, family, sexuality, and more. I am in network with some insurances and I am happy to supply you with documentation for out-of-network coverage/reimbursement.
(646) 681-7475 View (646) 681-7475
Photo of Megan Lothian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Lothian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Waitlist for new clients
I work with pre-teens, adolescents, and adults, specializing in complex trauma, chronic illness, and eating disorders.
I believe there is great value in curious and non-judgmental exploration of our feelings, thoughts, actions, and relational patterns, in the presence of another person. I value an interactive and collaborative therapeutic relationship, and using creativity, humor, and authenticity within the therapy process. I strive to help my clients increase empathy for themselves and others, strengthen their capacity for making meaningful change, and cope with challenges that arise throughout life.
I work with pre-teens, adolescents, and adults, specializing in complex trauma, chronic illness, and eating disorders.
I believe there is great value in curious and non-judgmental exploration of our feelings, thoughts, actions, and relational patterns, in the presence of another person. I value an interactive and collaborative therapeutic relationship, and using creativity, humor, and authenticity within the therapy process. I strive to help my clients increase empathy for themselves and others, strengthen their capacity for making meaningful change, and cope with challenges that arise throughout life.
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Photo of Alayo Bascome, LCSW, LSW, CPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alayo Bascome
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSW, CPC
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211  (Online Only)
Areas of specialty include (but are not limited to): Trauma and post-traumatic resilience; Chronic illness & Disability; Executive functioning; Parenthood; and Transgender/Gender expansive experiences across the lifespan.
Everyone comes to The Work in their own way, for their own reasons, in their own time. For some, it's a safe space to explore and grow as they need. For others it's a dedicated ear and a mind trained to help them resolve emotional conflicts, stress, anxiety, and depression. Still others long to be seen and embraced (in all of their complexity and nuance). Whatever journey has led you here, my goal is to help you step into the fullness of your Self and live the best life possible.
Areas of specialty include (but are not limited to): Trauma and post-traumatic resilience; Chronic illness & Disability; Executive functioning; Parenthood; and Transgender/Gender expansive experiences across the lifespan.
Everyone comes to The Work in their own way, for their own reasons, in their own time. For some, it's a safe space to explore and grow as they need. For others it's a dedicated ear and a mind trained to help them resolve emotional conflicts, stress, anxiety, and depression. Still others long to be seen and embraced (in all of their complexity and nuance). Whatever journey has led you here, my goal is to help you step into the fullness of your Self and live the best life possible.
(646) 849-9591 View (646) 849-9591
Photo of Antonina Vargas, LMSW
Antonina Vargas
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211
It takes courage to recognize when something in your life isn’t working the way you’d hoped. You might be struggling with relationships, difficult life changes, or a sense of disconnection from yourself or others. Maybe you’re feeling anxious, depressed, stuck, or overwhelmed by emotions you can’t quite name. These kinds of difficult feelings often signal parts of ourselves that need attention and care. In my work with both individuals and couples, these signals are explored so we can begin to uncover areas for healing, growth, and meaningful transformation. My specialties include: relationship issues, trauma, family conflict, ADHD.
It takes courage to recognize when something in your life isn’t working the way you’d hoped. You might be struggling with relationships, difficult life changes, or a sense of disconnection from yourself or others. Maybe you’re feeling anxious, depressed, stuck, or overwhelmed by emotions you can’t quite name. These kinds of difficult feelings often signal parts of ourselves that need attention and care. In my work with both individuals and couples, these signals are explored so we can begin to uncover areas for healing, growth, and meaningful transformation. My specialties include: relationship issues, trauma, family conflict, ADHD.
(646) 687-1963 View (646) 687-1963
Photo of Christie Roe, MSW
Christie Roe
MSW
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211  (Online Only)
I offer useful, enjoyable therapy that supports trauma recovery in all dimensions of your life. However your trauma shows up, my work invites you to develop a living framework for self-healing aligned with your experiential wisdom and personal practices of truth and belonging in body, mind, and spirit. With attention to causes, contexts, and solutions often lacking in dominant models of mental healthcare, I center intentional self-guidance, inquiry-based processing, holistic resource sharing, and solidarity that resists clinical objectification, mind control, and perpetual oppression.
I offer useful, enjoyable therapy that supports trauma recovery in all dimensions of your life. However your trauma shows up, my work invites you to develop a living framework for self-healing aligned with your experiential wisdom and personal practices of truth and belonging in body, mind, and spirit. With attention to causes, contexts, and solutions often lacking in dominant models of mental healthcare, I center intentional self-guidance, inquiry-based processing, holistic resource sharing, and solidarity that resists clinical objectification, mind control, and perpetual oppression.
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Photo of Elizabeth Collison, PhD, Psychologist
Elizabeth Collison
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. Dr. Elizabeth Collison joined Therapy Lab in January 2021, where she offers services to California, New York, and Washington residents via telehealth. Dr. Collison has worked with adults across the lifespan (18-100+) and believes she works best with someone who is looking for the best path and tools to use along the way to healing and growth. Dr. Collison's ideal client is ready and willing to 1. implement recommendations, 2. consider honestly the barriers to their change, and 3. give feedback so she can adapt to better suit their needs.
Accepting new clients. Dr. Elizabeth Collison joined Therapy Lab in January 2021, where she offers services to California, New York, and Washington residents via telehealth. Dr. Collison has worked with adults across the lifespan (18-100+) and believes she works best with someone who is looking for the best path and tools to use along the way to healing and growth. Dr. Collison's ideal client is ready and willing to 1. implement recommendations, 2. consider honestly the barriers to their change, and 3. give feedback so she can adapt to better suit their needs.
(347) 603-1972 View (347) 603-1972
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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.