Chronic Pain Therapists in Fayetteville, NY
![Photo of Douglas Goldschmidt, LCSWR, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fb834f5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Douglas Goldschmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, PhD
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NY 13066
My work focuses on anxiety, trauma, medical issues, pain, and introducing spirituality into practice.
I believe that therapy can develop non-judgmental awareness of what we face in the present, of thoughts and feelings that are based on conditioned reactions from our past, and of the ability to then cultivate the inner freedom that allows us to move into a future grounded in experience and directed at a positive and compassionate understanding of ourselves and of others. Developing the ability to be aware is a practice that each client learns and practices according to their needs, interests, and learning styles. There is no ideal client, there is only the commitment to practice awareness and find freedom from the past.
My work focuses on anxiety, trauma, medical issues, pain, and introducing spirituality into practice.
I believe that therapy can develop non-judgmental awareness of what we face in the present, of thoughts and feelings that are based on conditioned reactions from our past, and of the ability to then cultivate the inner freedom that allows us to move into a future grounded in experience and directed at a positive and compassionate understanding of ourselves and of others. Developing the ability to be aware is a practice that each client learns and practices according to their needs, interests, and learning styles. There is no ideal client, there is only the commitment to practice awareness and find freedom from the past.
![Photo of Susan Hartman Brenizer, MA, LMFT, NY, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42767a74-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Hartman Brenizer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, NY
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NY 13066
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Clinical Fellow, AAMFT with 40+ years experience. Special expertise in working with couples, and individual adults. Training in psychodynamic therapy, systems' and behavioral therapy. Extensive expertise: couples therapy, depression, grief, loss, trauma, abuse and affair recovery, and divorce recovery. Columnist for "Syracuse Post Standard" newspaper "Shrink Rap", 2007- 2014. Featured in PBS Documentary entitled "Pain Runs Deep: Relationship Violence". Interview on NPR, WCNY, and "Brides" Magazine, 2023 and 2024. Recently inducted into Marquis "Who's Who in America", March 2024.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Clinical Fellow, AAMFT with 40+ years experience. Special expertise in working with couples, and individual adults. Training in psychodynamic therapy, systems' and behavioral therapy. Extensive expertise: couples therapy, depression, grief, loss, trauma, abuse and affair recovery, and divorce recovery. Columnist for "Syracuse Post Standard" newspaper "Shrink Rap", 2007- 2014. Featured in PBS Documentary entitled "Pain Runs Deep: Relationship Violence". Interview on NPR, WCNY, and "Brides" Magazine, 2023 and 2024. Recently inducted into Marquis "Who's Who in America", March 2024.
![Photo of Shannon O'Toole, LMHC, MS, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a72f7dfd-2f38-49f9-9e13-933ff1e5280b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Together with my clients, we examine the sources of their pain and figure out ways to think about and approach them differently that will allow them to heal and thrive.
Life often presents us with a myriad of challenges, and no one has to figure it all out alone. My role as a counselor is to help you find strategies to navigate the difficulties that prevent you from feeling and doing your best. I work primarily with adolescents, teens, and young adults experiencing a wide array of struggles. These include, but are not limited to, anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, family issues, health-related issues, and behavioral issues both at home and at school. Additionally, I work with adults with intergenerational trauma and family of origin concerns and how these affect their life as adults.
Together with my clients, we examine the sources of their pain and figure out ways to think about and approach them differently that will allow them to heal and thrive.
Life often presents us with a myriad of challenges, and no one has to figure it all out alone. My role as a counselor is to help you find strategies to navigate the difficulties that prevent you from feeling and doing your best. I work primarily with adolescents, teens, and young adults experiencing a wide array of struggles. These include, but are not limited to, anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, family issues, health-related issues, and behavioral issues both at home and at school. Additionally, I work with adults with intergenerational trauma and family of origin concerns and how these affect their life as adults.
![Photo of Laura Hruska, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b62fd226-2aa2-46c7-9436-5baef1886782/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients, telehealth exclusively. Specialty areas include: anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, insomnia, stress management, and psychological assessment. I generally work with evidence-based treatments, such as CBT, as research supports the use of time-limited (not forever) psychotherapies with a focus on behavioral coping skills, education, and processing emotions and thoughts more effectively. -Please visit my WEBSITE: reillypsych.com
Accepting new patients, telehealth exclusively. Specialty areas include: anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, insomnia, stress management, and psychological assessment. I generally work with evidence-based treatments, such as CBT, as research supports the use of time-limited (not forever) psychotherapies with a focus on behavioral coping skills, education, and processing emotions and thoughts more effectively. -Please visit my WEBSITE: reillypsych.com
![Photo of Nicole McDonald, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c45be913-93d2-4503-8611-1cc073806ddc/3/320x400.jpeg)
Taking new patients! I am pleased you found my private teletherapy website. Reaching out takes courage and I look forward to hearing from you so we can begin our journey together. I have years of experience working with adolescents, adults and couples.
Taking new patients! I am pleased you found my private teletherapy website. Reaching out takes courage and I look forward to hearing from you so we can begin our journey together. I have years of experience working with adolescents, adults and couples.
![Photo of Ruth A Larson, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fd299e0-3e59-422d-9cca-b113fe553340/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle feeling authentic? Sometimes it feels like we are wearing a mask in hopes of being accepted by the people in our lives. How much of your time do you spend masking? Do you worry that even a therapist may not understand you and your concerns? I want you to know that I am open, welcoming, affirming, Body Positive, Sex Positive, Polyamorous/Ethical Non-Monogamy Positive, and Kink/BDSM Positive! I believe in radical acceptance. I am a Queer Therapist and would like to help you take off your mask, embrace your true identity, and live life to the fullest! Life can be so much better!
Do you struggle feeling authentic? Sometimes it feels like we are wearing a mask in hopes of being accepted by the people in our lives. How much of your time do you spend masking? Do you worry that even a therapist may not understand you and your concerns? I want you to know that I am open, welcoming, affirming, Body Positive, Sex Positive, Polyamorous/Ethical Non-Monogamy Positive, and Kink/BDSM Positive! I believe in radical acceptance. I am a Queer Therapist and would like to help you take off your mask, embrace your true identity, and live life to the fullest! Life can be so much better!
![Photo of Aaron Max Klein, LMHC, CASACMC, SEP™, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09a567b5-8a96-404e-be95-418d420d49ad/3/320x400.jpeg)
Aaron Max Klein
Counselor, LMHC, CASACMC, SEP™
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NY 13066 (Online Only)
Does no one get how anxious, frustrated or checked out you feel? It's so hard to be misunderstood. Trauma, family pressure, relationship issues; these things can have you stuck in a cycle of unhappiness. These experiences may even have you anxious, depressed, and seeking relief through using substances. You’ve tried everything you can to address issues on your own. You want someone to actually help you. Despite it being hard, you're willing to ask for help. I want you to know that you can feel more connected, whole, energized, and fulfilled. I am dedicated to helping you, using somatic therapy to link the mind, body and spirit.
Does no one get how anxious, frustrated or checked out you feel? It's so hard to be misunderstood. Trauma, family pressure, relationship issues; these things can have you stuck in a cycle of unhappiness. These experiences may even have you anxious, depressed, and seeking relief through using substances. You’ve tried everything you can to address issues on your own. You want someone to actually help you. Despite it being hard, you're willing to ask for help. I want you to know that you can feel more connected, whole, energized, and fulfilled. I am dedicated to helping you, using somatic therapy to link the mind, body and spirit.
Restoration Psychiatry
MD, MRCPSYC, MSc, FACL, ACSM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NY 13066 (Online Only)
We offer non-invasive Trans-Cranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a state of the art treatment for depression, anxiety and OCD. We will work with your insurance company to get you authorized. You only need to focus on your restoration. At Upstate Professional Center (UPC), we proudly supports a rich collection of counselors and healers that includes psychiatrists, nurse practitioner, social workers, therapists, acupuncturist, physiologist, and massage therapist.
We offer non-invasive Trans-Cranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a state of the art treatment for depression, anxiety and OCD. We will work with your insurance company to get you authorized. You only need to focus on your restoration. At Upstate Professional Center (UPC), we proudly supports a rich collection of counselors and healers that includes psychiatrists, nurse practitioner, social workers, therapists, acupuncturist, physiologist, and massage therapist.
![Photo of Jim Feinberg - Jim Feinberg LCSW-r CH.t, LCSW-R, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4601e49c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jim Feinberg LCSW-r CH.t
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NY 13066
Are you feeling down? Living with HIV/AIDS? Are you facing challenges as an LBGT person? Are you struggling with substances? Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? Sense of self? Are you and your intimate partner having difficulties in your relationship? Are people telling you you are not the same person they know? I have 26 years of experience in working with LGBTQIA issues, people with HIV/AIDS, Grief/Loss, Substance Abuse, Mental Health issues, Depression, Anxiety, Individual/ Couples therapy. I work in conjunction with you , to be forthcoming, find your strengths and maximize the benefits of therapy. In person appts only.
Are you feeling down? Living with HIV/AIDS? Are you facing challenges as an LBGT person? Are you struggling with substances? Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? Sense of self? Are you and your intimate partner having difficulties in your relationship? Are people telling you you are not the same person they know? I have 26 years of experience in working with LGBTQIA issues, people with HIV/AIDS, Grief/Loss, Substance Abuse, Mental Health issues, Depression, Anxiety, Individual/ Couples therapy. I work in conjunction with you , to be forthcoming, find your strengths and maximize the benefits of therapy. In person appts only.
![Photo of Tracy Carmody, MS, LMHC, NCC, CASAC-M, CCTP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee55f8b4-469e-45fc-9865-720d61ed06e9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tracy Carmody
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CASAC-M, CCTP
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NY 13066
Accepting New Clients August 2024 in person! Partnering with individuals to address addiction and/or behavioral health concerns. Experienced in helping individuals with a wide range of issues including: OCD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, anger management, major life transitions, trauma, maternal health, grief, relationship stress, addictive behavior, & addiction in the family. Assessing level of impairment from behavioral health, substance abuse, postpartum, or co-occurring disorder. Encouraging a self defined path to recovery through a variety of approaches. Host of Sober Curious Event Series for Women.
Accepting New Clients August 2024 in person! Partnering with individuals to address addiction and/or behavioral health concerns. Experienced in helping individuals with a wide range of issues including: OCD, bipolar, depression, anxiety, anger management, major life transitions, trauma, maternal health, grief, relationship stress, addictive behavior, & addiction in the family. Assessing level of impairment from behavioral health, substance abuse, postpartum, or co-occurring disorder. Encouraging a self defined path to recovery through a variety of approaches. Host of Sober Curious Event Series for Women.
![Photo of Megan McPeak, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42fd032f-a41d-4509-b41c-601c8932947f/3/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Megan McPeak and I am a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker in East Syracuse, NY. I provide short and long term individual therapy to adolescents and adults that are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, low self-esteem, relationship problems, life transitions, complex family dynamics, chronic illnesses, and other challenges.
My name is Megan McPeak and I am a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker in East Syracuse, NY. I provide short and long term individual therapy to adolescents and adults that are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, low self-esteem, relationship problems, life transitions, complex family dynamics, chronic illnesses, and other challenges.
![Photo of Maryann Piazza Transform To Awaken, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54b1dd9a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Maryann Piazza Transform To Awaken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NY 13066 (Online Only)
I am committed to supporting individuals to awaken to their highest potential. If you have experienced trauma, ptsd, or have ongoing negative self talk that gets in the way of your best life I can help support you to achieve long term success. I help people to clear old patterns and make lasting changes in their lives. We all want to create a life that we feel we are in control and have peace in our lives. Please join me in creating that best life balance.
I am committed to supporting individuals to awaken to their highest potential. If you have experienced trauma, ptsd, or have ongoing negative self talk that gets in the way of your best life I can help support you to achieve long term success. I help people to clear old patterns and make lasting changes in their lives. We all want to create a life that we feel we are in control and have peace in our lives. Please join me in creating that best life balance.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Ellen Block, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f1b71b3-80ad-4d4b-b019-eaae9cabb319/1/320x400.png)
Do you struggle with chronic pain or illness and feel as though it's stopping you from living the life you want? Are you facing a major transition, stressor or anxiety? Hi, I'm Ellen and I'm glad you've found me! As a member of the disabled community, I understand the challenges that can arise when we don't feel heard or understood. I also have experienced how rewarding finding the right therapist to help me tackle these challenges could be. I'm here to listen and help you overcome barriers, no matter the problem. We will work together to develop a plan with skills-training and achievable goals that help you flourish.
Do you struggle with chronic pain or illness and feel as though it's stopping you from living the life you want? Are you facing a major transition, stressor or anxiety? Hi, I'm Ellen and I'm glad you've found me! As a member of the disabled community, I understand the challenges that can arise when we don't feel heard or understood. I also have experienced how rewarding finding the right therapist to help me tackle these challenges could be. I'm here to listen and help you overcome barriers, no matter the problem. We will work together to develop a plan with skills-training and achievable goals that help you flourish.
![Photo of Maria Manna, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53694ed7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of focus include working with the LGBTQIA+ communities, chronic pain/illness, mood/anxiety disorders, grief and relationship dynamics.
I’ve been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for 20 years, working the last 10+ years in private practice in Ithaca, NY. While I have an office on N. Tioga Street in downtown Ithaca, the majority of my meetings happen online. I take a collaborative approach to this work and draw on my experience and education to provide an individualized approach to therapy. I work with people who are managing acute or chronic physical illness, pain and the often complicated diagnostic process.
My areas of focus include working with the LGBTQIA+ communities, chronic pain/illness, mood/anxiety disorders, grief and relationship dynamics.
I’ve been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for 20 years, working the last 10+ years in private practice in Ithaca, NY. While I have an office on N. Tioga Street in downtown Ithaca, the majority of my meetings happen online. I take a collaborative approach to this work and draw on my experience and education to provide an individualized approach to therapy. I work with people who are managing acute or chronic physical illness, pain and the often complicated diagnostic process.
![Photo of Veronica Llovera-Talucci, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d1dd3bd-391f-48be-9204-33701d610ea0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica Llovera-Talucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Syracuse, NY 13057 (Online Only)
Some of us continue to avoid, deny, and delay the inevitable, and some of us take the opportunity to find a way to thrive through the pain.
Taking the steps to attend to your needs by creating an intentional therapeutic space can be challenging and so rewarding! Doing the work that needs to be done will increase your self-awareness, self-worth, and motivate you to consistently practice self-care. Be brave and lean into yourself!
Some of us continue to avoid, deny, and delay the inevitable, and some of us take the opportunity to find a way to thrive through the pain.
Taking the steps to attend to your needs by creating an intentional therapeutic space can be challenging and so rewarding! Doing the work that needs to be done will increase your self-awareness, self-worth, and motivate you to consistently practice self-care. Be brave and lean into yourself!
![Photo of Catherine Metz, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec83a6d0-3bf8-45d7-b818-4b79d86f7a3c/1/320x400.png)
Catherine Metz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13212 (Online Only)
I have ample experience working with individuals around anxiety, trauma, chronic pain and postpartum-related issues.
Currently accepting telehealth clients! - - At different points in our lives, we can become overwhelmed and unbalanced. We are all human, having good days and bad. While each person is unique, we are not alone in this experience of life. My desire as a therapist is to have a holistic understanding of who you are and help you improve your life in the ways you desire. I work with individuals, couples and families of various ages, backgrounds and walks of life to treat a wide variety of issues.
I have ample experience working with individuals around anxiety, trauma, chronic pain and postpartum-related issues.
Currently accepting telehealth clients! - - At different points in our lives, we can become overwhelmed and unbalanced. We are all human, having good days and bad. While each person is unique, we are not alone in this experience of life. My desire as a therapist is to have a holistic understanding of who you are and help you improve your life in the ways you desire. I work with individuals, couples and families of various ages, backgrounds and walks of life to treat a wide variety of issues.
![Photo of Judith S Huober, MA, MS, LP-MHC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5107495-e25c-4df4-9a60-a97a86e7ab12/1/320x400.jpeg)
Judith S Huober
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS, LP-MHC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13214 (Online Only)
Are you looking to heal? To change? To accept challenges and cope with grace? Become more well balanced, enjoy life and relationships more, flourish in your chosen path? I welcome individuals and families coping with issues of aging such as chronic/progressive illness, pain, and cognitive changes; as well as those with trauma, ambiguous loss and disenfranchised grief; stress, depression and anxiety. I will be a witness, a listener, a partner and a guide as you use self-awareness, self-compassion, wisdom and intentionality to learn and cope with the practical and emotional tasks and challenges of your life with heart, mind and soul.
Are you looking to heal? To change? To accept challenges and cope with grace? Become more well balanced, enjoy life and relationships more, flourish in your chosen path? I welcome individuals and families coping with issues of aging such as chronic/progressive illness, pain, and cognitive changes; as well as those with trauma, ambiguous loss and disenfranchised grief; stress, depression and anxiety. I will be a witness, a listener, a partner and a guide as you use self-awareness, self-compassion, wisdom and intentionality to learn and cope with the practical and emotional tasks and challenges of your life with heart, mind and soul.
![Photo of Viviana Quinones, LCSW, C-SWHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3374a541-bfe9-40fc-b515-6287218d617c/1/320x400.png)
Viviana Quinones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-SWHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manlius, NY 13104
Accepting New Clients for EMDR! Viviana Quinones is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in NY and CT. Viviana was born in Puerto Rico and grew up in Bogota, Colombia. She is bilingual (Spanish & English) and works with clients of all cultures and backgrounds. Her personal background influences her multicultural approach to therapy, where she meets patients’ needs with openness and acceptance. Viviana specializes in working with people with Complex Trauma, Chronic Illness, Cancer, Infertility and Eating Disorders. She is a Certified Bereavement Coordinator and experienced in grief counseling, end of life, and neonatal death counseling.
Accepting New Clients for EMDR! Viviana Quinones is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in NY and CT. Viviana was born in Puerto Rico and grew up in Bogota, Colombia. She is bilingual (Spanish & English) and works with clients of all cultures and backgrounds. Her personal background influences her multicultural approach to therapy, where she meets patients’ needs with openness and acceptance. Viviana specializes in working with people with Complex Trauma, Chronic Illness, Cancer, Infertility and Eating Disorders. She is a Certified Bereavement Coordinator and experienced in grief counseling, end of life, and neonatal death counseling.
![Photo of Sharon Keenan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b1f4c41-b501-451b-9cf5-dfd6156ddd8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon Keenan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13201 (Online Only)
Are you having a difficult time each day wanting to feel better? Are you struggling with the aging process, caregiving for a sick loved one, or chronic illness? Do you have wide fluctuations in your mood? Are you looking for coping strategies or grounding techniques for your anxiety or depression? Do you need to discuss and process grief or trauma? If you find yourself saying yes to any of the above questions, give me a call for a free 15-minute consultation.
Are you having a difficult time each day wanting to feel better? Are you struggling with the aging process, caregiving for a sick loved one, or chronic illness? Do you have wide fluctuations in your mood? Are you looking for coping strategies or grounding techniques for your anxiety or depression? Do you need to discuss and process grief or trauma? If you find yourself saying yes to any of the above questions, give me a call for a free 15-minute consultation.
![Photo of Adriana Rodriguez-Baptiste, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8ba1bc9-c138-4774-bbdf-32565111bb6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adriana Rodriguez-Baptiste
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manlius, NY 13104 (Online Only)
Perhaps you are looking for a fulfilling life, but you’re struggling with feeling broken or incomplete because you aren't a mother. Maybe you’re bogged down with the weight of society's pressure to have children. You crave purpose and connection with others, but maybe you struggle to express your pain. You are tired of receiving unsolicited advice and questions about your reproductive system. This leaves you wondering: Is there life beyond motherhood?
Perhaps you are looking for a fulfilling life, but you’re struggling with feeling broken or incomplete because you aren't a mother. Maybe you’re bogged down with the weight of society's pressure to have children. You crave purpose and connection with others, but maybe you struggle to express your pain. You are tired of receiving unsolicited advice and questions about your reproductive system. This leaves you wondering: Is there life beyond motherhood?
See more therapy options for Fayetteville
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Fayetteville
- Auburn
- Baldwinsville
- Camillus
- Cortland
- East Syracuse
- Liverpool
- Manlius
- Norwich
- Oswego
- Skaneateles
- Syracuse
- Utica
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.