Chronic Pain Therapists in Purchase, NY

Photo of Deborah Schuessler, PhD, Psychologist
Deborah Schuessler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Purchase, NY 10577  (Online Only)
I also use mindfulness techniques, relaxation training to help reduce anxiety, stress, depression and pain.
I offer psychotherapy, hypnosis, and guided imagery to treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, chronic fatigue, chronic pain, migraines, sleep problems and more. I accept medicare and am a warm, supportive, nonjudgmental person who is interested in learning about you and helping you explore whatever issues and problems you'd like to address. I work with people who are feeling overwhelmed by personal problems, depression, and anxiety. In my experience, as you begin to feel supported by me and work on finding out who you are and what you want, you will begin to develop your own personal solutions.
I also use mindfulness techniques, relaxation training to help reduce anxiety, stress, depression and pain.
I offer psychotherapy, hypnosis, and guided imagery to treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, chronic fatigue, chronic pain, migraines, sleep problems and more. I accept medicare and am a warm, supportive, nonjudgmental person who is interested in learning about you and helping you explore whatever issues and problems you'd like to address. I work with people who are feeling overwhelmed by personal problems, depression, and anxiety. In my experience, as you begin to feel supported by me and work on finding out who you are and what you want, you will begin to develop your own personal solutions.
(845) 377-0740 View (845) 377-0740
Photo of Wayne Gersh - Westchester Center for Behavior Therapy, PhD, Psychologist
Westchester Center for Behavior Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Purchase, NY 10577
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 Bryanna Fatigate, PhD, Psychologist
Bryanna Fatigate
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Purchase, NY 10577
Dr. Fatigate is a passionate therapist who utilizes highly effective treatments, such as CBT, DBT, and ACT, to empower her clients to achieve their goals. She has had extensive training at a renowned CBT/DBT training center and through Mount Sinai’s esteemed therapy programs. Through relationship building, collaboration, and adapting to each client’s needs, she provides holistic, tailored, and client-centered treatment. Her diverse experiences across outpatient, private practice, and hospitals allow her to connect with clients, regardless of what they are experiencing, and help them achieve symptom reduction and holistic well-being.
Dr. Fatigate is a passionate therapist who utilizes highly effective treatments, such as CBT, DBT, and ACT, to empower her clients to achieve their goals. She has had extensive training at a renowned CBT/DBT training center and through Mount Sinai’s esteemed therapy programs. Through relationship building, collaboration, and adapting to each client’s needs, she provides holistic, tailored, and client-centered treatment. Her diverse experiences across outpatient, private practice, and hospitals allow her to connect with clients, regardless of what they are experiencing, and help them achieve symptom reduction and holistic well-being.
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Photo of Sherly Raymond - Growing Stages Therapy PLLC, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Growing Stages Therapy PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Purchase, NY 10577  (Online Only)
Navigating through life's transitions like divorce, breakups, parenting challenges, or the loss of a loved one can be incredibly overwhelming. It's easy to feel isolated, disoriented, and uncertain during these times.
Navigating through life's transitions like divorce, breakups, parenting challenges, or the loss of a loved one can be incredibly overwhelming. It's easy to feel isolated, disoriented, and uncertain during these times.
(347) 732-1007 View (347) 732-1007
Photo of Alexis Santiago-Autar - The Counseling Center Group, New York, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Counseling Center Group, New York
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Purchase, NY 10577
The professionals at The Counseling Center Group, New York use a wide range of techniques to help improve the quality of life for individuals, couples, groups, and families. Through our strength-based and collaborative approach, we provide new insights that enable our clients to gain different perspectives. We offer treatment and counseling for anxiety, depression, grief, emotional regulation issues, self-esteem, relationship concerns, parenting, and more. Through active and research based strategies, we empower our clients to make choices that elicit positive changes in their lives. Together, we will look at feelings, thoughts and behaviors as vehicles to affirmative changes.
The professionals at The Counseling Center Group, New York use a wide range of techniques to help improve the quality of life for individuals, couples, groups, and families. Through our strength-based and collaborative approach, we provide new insights that enable our clients to gain different perspectives. We offer treatment and counseling for anxiety, depression, grief, emotional regulation issues, self-esteem, relationship concerns, parenting, and more. Through active and research based strategies, we empower our clients to make choices that elicit positive changes in their lives. Together, we will look at feelings, thoughts and behaviors as vehicles to affirmative changes.
(914) 246-5160 View (914) 246-5160

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ellen Block, LMHC
Ellen Block
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10605  (Online Only)
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.
(315) 496-6306 View (315) 496-6306
Photo of Shakira K O'Garro - Cheerful Heart Mental Health Counseling PLLC, LMHC, LPC, LPCC, NCC, Counselor
Cheerful Heart Mental Health Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10603  (Online Only)
Perhaps you’re just feeling down or nervous – maybe you’re unsure about the future of a relationship, or have recently been diagnosed with a serious illness. Whatever your needs may be, we are here to offer support. In our therapy sessions we promote healing by maintaining a person-centered focus by encouraging a positive outlook, the adoption of new attitudes, and fostering hope and healing. We have the empathy, understanding, personal and professional experience to help you cope and move forward.
Perhaps you’re just feeling down or nervous – maybe you’re unsure about the future of a relationship, or have recently been diagnosed with a serious illness. Whatever your needs may be, we are here to offer support. In our therapy sessions we promote healing by maintaining a person-centered focus by encouraging a positive outlook, the adoption of new attitudes, and fostering hope and healing. We have the empathy, understanding, personal and professional experience to help you cope and move forward.
(914) 368-6726 View (914) 368-6726
Photo of Amy Stern, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10605  (Online Only)
I am an experienced clinician who has been practicing social work for 20 years. My areas of expertise include: depression, anxiety, aging-related issues, adjustment to illness/disability, caregiver stress, transitions, and grief and loss. I use a customized approach when working with clients, utilizing my experience with cognitive-behavioral practices, psychodynamic work and supportive counseling in whatever combination is needed.
I am an experienced clinician who has been practicing social work for 20 years. My areas of expertise include: depression, anxiety, aging-related issues, adjustment to illness/disability, caregiver stress, transitions, and grief and loss. I use a customized approach when working with clients, utilizing my experience with cognitive-behavioral practices, psychodynamic work and supportive counseling in whatever combination is needed.
(516) 874-6915 View (516) 874-6915
Photo of Jo Anne Gorski, PhD, Psychologist
Jo Anne Gorski
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rye Brook, NY 10573
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 Yolanda Thomas, LMHC, Counselor
Yolanda Thomas
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10601  (Online Only)
My approach is compassionate and client-centered with a deep empathy for the unique experience of women navigating life's challenges or the complexities of a chronic illness.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood or experiencing bouts of extreme sadness while trying to manage the ups and downs of life? Are you frustrated or angry due to limitations from a chronic illness? I am deeply committed to supporting women through their most challenging times. My practice focuses on a culturally sensitive approach to helping women manage stress, anxiety and depression while also helping women who are managing a chronic health condition. I understand the profound emotional and psychological impact that a chronic illness can have on women. Especially while working and taking care of a family.
My approach is compassionate and client-centered with a deep empathy for the unique experience of women navigating life's challenges or the complexities of a chronic illness.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood or experiencing bouts of extreme sadness while trying to manage the ups and downs of life? Are you frustrated or angry due to limitations from a chronic illness? I am deeply committed to supporting women through their most challenging times. My practice focuses on a culturally sensitive approach to helping women manage stress, anxiety and depression while also helping women who are managing a chronic health condition. I understand the profound emotional and psychological impact that a chronic illness can have on women. Especially while working and taking care of a family.
(914) 685-6122 View (914) 685-6122
Photo of Andrea Deutsch, PhD, Psychologist
Andrea Deutsch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10601
If you are feeling bad about yourself and aspects of your life, therapy can help improve your self-esteem, mood, and the quality of your life. I work with adults and adolescents who are struggling with a wide range of issues. Some are confused and unhappy about their relationships or troubled by their performance at work or school. Others come into therapy because of a crisis in their lives, such as illness, divorce, or the loss of a loved one. I also see people who are having trouble adjusting to a life transition, like going away to college or becoming a parent. Still others are bothered by events from the past. Whatever the issue, feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed and/or angry are common.
If you are feeling bad about yourself and aspects of your life, therapy can help improve your self-esteem, mood, and the quality of your life. I work with adults and adolescents who are struggling with a wide range of issues. Some are confused and unhappy about their relationships or troubled by their performance at work or school. Others come into therapy because of a crisis in their lives, such as illness, divorce, or the loss of a loved one. I also see people who are having trouble adjusting to a life transition, like going away to college or becoming a parent. Still others are bothered by events from the past. Whatever the issue, feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed and/or angry are common.
(914) 295-0649 View (914) 295-0649
Photo of Brittany Kugler, PhD, MSW, Psychologist
Brittany Kugler
Psychologist, PhD, MSW
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10601
I have specialized training in cognitive-behavioral therapy for: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disorder, Social Phobia, Specific Phobias, Chronic Pain, Chronic Medical Illness, Somatic symptoms, PANDAS/PANS, Lyme Disease, Postpartum anxiety and OCD , Insomnia/Sleep problems, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Excoriation/Skin Picking, trichotillomania and tics/Tourette's.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. I treat children, adolescents and adults using evidence-based practices. I have expertise in working with anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), specific phobias, social phobia, panic disorder, and separation anxiety disorder. Additionally, I am skilled in working with individuals coping with the many aspects of chronic medical illness, including illnesses that may have prominent psychiatric symptoms (e.g., PANDAS, PANS, Lyme Disease/coinfections).
I have specialized training in cognitive-behavioral therapy for: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disorder, Social Phobia, Specific Phobias, Chronic Pain, Chronic Medical Illness, Somatic symptoms, PANDAS/PANS, Lyme Disease, Postpartum anxiety and OCD , Insomnia/Sleep problems, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Excoriation/Skin Picking, trichotillomania and tics/Tourette's.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. I treat children, adolescents and adults using evidence-based practices. I have expertise in working with anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), specific phobias, social phobia, panic disorder, and separation anxiety disorder. Additionally, I am skilled in working with individuals coping with the many aspects of chronic medical illness, including illnesses that may have prominent psychiatric symptoms (e.g., PANDAS, PANS, Lyme Disease/coinfections).
(914) 825-4719 View (914) 825-4719
Photo of Ellyn Rabinowitz, LCSW, SIFI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellyn Rabinowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SIFI
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10602
My ideal client feels that things may not be working out in their life and would like to talk about it, work on it, resolve and heal. I'm here to help on that journey. You may be dealing with trauma, bereavement, loss, substance abuse, or sexual and psychological abuse, work or school issues, ADHD, relationship/communication problems. During these difficult times, many have unmet needs and feel lonely, depressed and isolated. Most people want release from their emotional pain and greater joy and love in their lives. "My" client is looking to be heard and seen and taken seriously. You want to matter in the world. I hear that.
My ideal client feels that things may not be working out in their life and would like to talk about it, work on it, resolve and heal. I'm here to help on that journey. You may be dealing with trauma, bereavement, loss, substance abuse, or sexual and psychological abuse, work or school issues, ADHD, relationship/communication problems. During these difficult times, many have unmet needs and feel lonely, depressed and isolated. Most people want release from their emotional pain and greater joy and love in their lives. "My" client is looking to be heard and seen and taken seriously. You want to matter in the world. I hear that.
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Photo of Andrea L Labis, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea L Labis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10601
With over 25 years of private practice experience, I offer individual, couples,family, and group rpsychotherapy. My expertise includes: Complex Child Custody and Divorce Proceedings, Parent Coordonation, Parent Coaching, Eating Disorders, Bariatric Surgery, Pain Management, Child/Adolescent School Difficulties, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Complicated Grief, and Infertility. In addition to having a post-graduate Certificate in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, I have studied Ayurveda, meditation, mind-body therapy, and other mindful practices. A warm place, a safe space, and a great deal of empathy (with a dose of laughter) help to bring light into the darkest places. I appreciate your strengths!
With over 25 years of private practice experience, I offer individual, couples,family, and group rpsychotherapy. My expertise includes: Complex Child Custody and Divorce Proceedings, Parent Coordonation, Parent Coaching, Eating Disorders, Bariatric Surgery, Pain Management, Child/Adolescent School Difficulties, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Complicated Grief, and Infertility. In addition to having a post-graduate Certificate in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, I have studied Ayurveda, meditation, mind-body therapy, and other mindful practices. A warm place, a safe space, and a great deal of empathy (with a dose of laughter) help to bring light into the darkest places. I appreciate your strengths!
(914) 840-5929 View (914) 840-5929
Photo of Sari Neave, LMSW
Sari Neave
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10601  (Online Only)
Life is full of challenges and transitions, and my goal as a therapist is to ease these challenges by partnering with my clients to build on their strengths and deepen their perspectives. I provide clear guidance and explanations, compassionate confrontation, warmth, and a safe space for exploration, discovery, and healing. My work includes helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, emotional pain, trauma, psychedelic experiences, eating disorders, life transitions, and learning to set boundaries in relationships to live more intentionally and authentically.
Life is full of challenges and transitions, and my goal as a therapist is to ease these challenges by partnering with my clients to build on their strengths and deepen their perspectives. I provide clear guidance and explanations, compassionate confrontation, warmth, and a safe space for exploration, discovery, and healing. My work includes helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, emotional pain, trauma, psychedelic experiences, eating disorders, life transitions, and learning to set boundaries in relationships to live more intentionally and authentically.
(914) 279-2215 View (914) 279-2215
Photo of Ziva Zaff, MS, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Ziva Zaff
Art Therapist, MS, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10605
Don't let life pass you by. If you experience symptoms of stress, anxiety, or depression, or if you struggle with a history of trauma, loss, or chronic pain, your quality of life may be affected. As a psychotherapist, working with adolescents, adults, and the elderly in private practice, I maintain a sensitive and compassionate approach when meeting you at these life junctions. Offering creative and holistic modes of therapy to treat individuals, families and groups, my aim is to join you in lifting the fog of uncertainty and pain, revealing your innate abilities to cope and move forward towards a life of fulfillment.
Don't let life pass you by. If you experience symptoms of stress, anxiety, or depression, or if you struggle with a history of trauma, loss, or chronic pain, your quality of life may be affected. As a psychotherapist, working with adolescents, adults, and the elderly in private practice, I maintain a sensitive and compassionate approach when meeting you at these life junctions. Offering creative and holistic modes of therapy to treat individuals, families and groups, my aim is to join you in lifting the fog of uncertainty and pain, revealing your innate abilities to cope and move forward towards a life of fulfillment.
(914) 529-6365 View (914) 529-6365
Photo of Nancy Sibirski Oren, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Sibirski Oren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10601
In addition I have experience working with anxiety, depression, pre- and post partum, addictions, trauma, sexual trauma, chronic pain, career and interfaith couples.
I am a relational psychotherapist who works with individuals and couples. I believe that therapy is a process where we come together to create a unique relationship - one that provides the safe space in which we explore and understand your inner world. It is through this understanding that we create room for growth, change and well being. Therapy is your time to connect with and explore your authentic self.
In addition I have experience working with anxiety, depression, pre- and post partum, addictions, trauma, sexual trauma, chronic pain, career and interfaith couples.
I am a relational psychotherapist who works with individuals and couples. I believe that therapy is a process where we come together to create a unique relationship - one that provides the safe space in which we explore and understand your inner world. It is through this understanding that we create room for growth, change and well being. Therapy is your time to connect with and explore your authentic self.
(516) 806-4880 View (516) 806-4880
Photo of Dalia Bautista - Daring Bliss Therapy, LCSW, PLLC - Dalia Bautista, LCSW, LMSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daring Bliss Therapy, LCSW, PLLC - Dalia Bautista
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10601  (Online Only)
I’m a Bilingual Licensed Clinical psychotherapist. I offer a safe, caring, professional & therapeutic environment where we can co-create a relationship essential for your healing & growth. I aid individuals with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, anxiety, chronic illness, medical trauma, food allergies, difficulty forming or maintaining relationships, & life transitions (I.e. college, aging.) I strive to aid my patients in cultivating greater self-acceptance & compassion for themselves. I have extensive experience with Latinx, people of color & LGBTQIA+. Mis servicios son ofrecidos 100 % en Español. www.daringblisstherapy.com.
I’m a Bilingual Licensed Clinical psychotherapist. I offer a safe, caring, professional & therapeutic environment where we can co-create a relationship essential for your healing & growth. I aid individuals with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, anxiety, chronic illness, medical trauma, food allergies, difficulty forming or maintaining relationships, & life transitions (I.e. college, aging.) I strive to aid my patients in cultivating greater self-acceptance & compassion for themselves. I have extensive experience with Latinx, people of color & LGBTQIA+. Mis servicios son ofrecidos 100 % en Español. www.daringblisstherapy.com.
(917) 905-3872 View (917) 905-3872
Photo of Jamie Lettre, LMHC
Jamie Lettre
LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10601  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Jamie. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York specializing in individual therapy to improve mental health struggles. Have you ever felt stuck in life? Do you find it challenging to identify the root causes of your behavior and choices? Do you have conflict with others? Have you experienced unresolved trauma and pain from your past? Just need a compassionate listening ear? Then therapy may be right for you!
Hello! My name is Jamie. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York specializing in individual therapy to improve mental health struggles. Have you ever felt stuck in life? Do you find it challenging to identify the root causes of your behavior and choices? Do you have conflict with others? Have you experienced unresolved trauma and pain from your past? Just need a compassionate listening ear? Then therapy may be right for you!
(914) 485-4970 View (914) 485-4970
Photo of Christina Wilk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Wilk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10601  (Online Only)
I have experience guiding clients cope with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, life stressors and transitions.
With all of the uncertainty of what may come next it may feel like you are holding all the stress of the world on your shoulders. You may ask yourself frequently "what if" or "how will I get through this". Change, good or bad can be scary, exciting and messy all in one. We are all unique individuals that have our own special strengths and skills that can sometimes be challenging to see during a difficult time in our lives. I am here to help guide and navigate you through those obstacles.
I have experience guiding clients cope with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, life stressors and transitions.
With all of the uncertainty of what may come next it may feel like you are holding all the stress of the world on your shoulders. You may ask yourself frequently "what if" or "how will I get through this". Change, good or bad can be scary, exciting and messy all in one. We are all unique individuals that have our own special strengths and skills that can sometimes be challenging to see during a difficult time in our lives. I am here to help guide and navigate you through those obstacles.
(631) 250-8678 View (631) 250-8678

See more therapy options for Purchase

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.