Chronic Pain Therapists in Sunnyside, NY

Photo of Elaine Abramovich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine Abramovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunnyside, NY 11104
As the causes of personal suffering are understood, the safe space of the therapy setting can provide a path out of the confusion and pain that may have become a way of life.
As a psychotherapist and healer for many years it has been my privilege to offer and provide help and comfort to people in distress. Experience has taught me that we all struggle to recover from the pains of the past, deal with the challenges of the present and the insecurities of the future, in our efforts to live the best lives that we can. This often seems very difficult if not impossible to accomplish alone. A strong and nurturing therapeutic relationship is a powerful and stable foundation for dealing with these challenges to our well-being, especially in these very troubling and uncertain times.
As the causes of personal suffering are understood, the safe space of the therapy setting can provide a path out of the confusion and pain that may have become a way of life.
As a psychotherapist and healer for many years it has been my privilege to offer and provide help and comfort to people in distress. Experience has taught me that we all struggle to recover from the pains of the past, deal with the challenges of the present and the insecurities of the future, in our efforts to live the best lives that we can. This often seems very difficult if not impossible to accomplish alone. A strong and nurturing therapeutic relationship is a powerful and stable foundation for dealing with these challenges to our well-being, especially in these very troubling and uncertain times.
(516) 701-3271 View (516) 701-3271
Photo of Abbie Loveland Tuller, PhD, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Abbie Loveland Tuller
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Sunnyside, NY 11104
The greatest discovery I have made in life is to embrace the unexpected, to crave the twists and turns as much as the great joys of life, and to lead with curiosity. Life can often feel scary, and we may face challenges that leave us feeling like there is nowhere to turn. If you find yourself feeling this way, you are not alone. Whether you are dealing with feelings of great sadness, anxiousness that feels uncontrollable, or struggling to move past an event in your life you have turned to the right place. Seeking therapy can lead to a greater understanding of yourself, the world around you, and the person you want to be.
The greatest discovery I have made in life is to embrace the unexpected, to crave the twists and turns as much as the great joys of life, and to lead with curiosity. Life can often feel scary, and we may face challenges that leave us feeling like there is nowhere to turn. If you find yourself feeling this way, you are not alone. Whether you are dealing with feelings of great sadness, anxiousness that feels uncontrollable, or struggling to move past an event in your life you have turned to the right place. Seeking therapy can lead to a greater understanding of yourself, the world around you, and the person you want to be.
(917) 512-5866 View (917) 512-5866
Photo of Sinead Cowins, PsyD, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Sinead Cowins
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyside, NY 11104
While I love my work with all human experiences, I have specific insight and interest in working with members of the Muslim community. I provide individual and couples therapy and have special sensitivity to the culture, dynamics and nuances of an Islamic lifestyle in Western society. I work with clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, intimacy challenges and navigating the professional world. In addition, I have special insight into intersectionality and what it means to have multiple identities. I work with clients who seek to incorporate and process their experience as an intersectional person.
While I love my work with all human experiences, I have specific insight and interest in working with members of the Muslim community. I provide individual and couples therapy and have special sensitivity to the culture, dynamics and nuances of an Islamic lifestyle in Western society. I work with clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, intimacy challenges and navigating the professional world. In addition, I have special insight into intersectionality and what it means to have multiple identities. I work with clients who seek to incorporate and process their experience as an intersectional person.
(718) 808-8323 View (718) 808-8323
Photo of Jean Carlos Osorio - Minds Together, LCSWs.PC, LCSW, CDBT, SIFI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Minds Together, LCSWs.PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDBT, SIFI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sunnyside, NY 11104
SE HABLA ESPAÑOL. DUE TO COVID19, SESSIONS ARE VIA TELEHEALTH. OFFICE VISITS WITH SAFETY PROTOCOLS (NYS GUIDELINES). Minds Together, LCSW.PC. provides a safe and unique setting dedicated in improving one's mental and emotional health through our professional and compassionate staff. Our mission is to improve our community one individual at a time through our culturally diverse and motivated clinicians with the hope that every person seeking treatment with us feels safe, empowered and most important treated as an individual and not as a patient.
SE HABLA ESPAÑOL. DUE TO COVID19, SESSIONS ARE VIA TELEHEALTH. OFFICE VISITS WITH SAFETY PROTOCOLS (NYS GUIDELINES). Minds Together, LCSW.PC. provides a safe and unique setting dedicated in improving one's mental and emotional health through our professional and compassionate staff. Our mission is to improve our community one individual at a time through our culturally diverse and motivated clinicians with the hope that every person seeking treatment with us feels safe, empowered and most important treated as an individual and not as a patient.
(917) 383-0308 View (917) 383-0308

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ira Kaufman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ira Kaufman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017
As the Director of a unique and comprehensive center, we provide individual, couples and family counseling, psychological testing and medication consultation. Counseling is provided for children, adolescents, adults, geriatrics, gays and lesbians. People struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, careeer choices, addictions, chronic pain, weight loss issues, eating disorders can receive help.
As the Director of a unique and comprehensive center, we provide individual, couples and family counseling, psychological testing and medication consultation. Counseling is provided for children, adolescents, adults, geriatrics, gays and lesbians. People struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, careeer choices, addictions, chronic pain, weight loss issues, eating disorders can receive help.
(212) 688-7099 View (212) 688-7099
Photo of Hannah Neumann, PhD, Psychologist
Hannah Neumann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
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 Jennifer Brown, MFA, RDT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFA, RDT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
With a focus on diverse populations, addiction, and holistic pain management, I offer a unique blend of narradrama, music, and technology to help you reshape your narrative.
Are you seeking a therapist who empowers you to rewrite your own story? Imagine finding a space where your creativity thrives, guided by a therapist who understands the power of self-expression. I specialize in helping diverse clients – from survivors to adolescents – navigate their healing journeys. Using drama therapy, you become your own guide in reshaping your narrative, fostering supportive self-talk and self-image.
With a focus on diverse populations, addiction, and holistic pain management, I offer a unique blend of narradrama, music, and technology to help you reshape your narrative.
Are you seeking a therapist who empowers you to rewrite your own story? Imagine finding a space where your creativity thrives, guided by a therapist who understands the power of self-expression. I specialize in helping diverse clients – from survivors to adolescents – navigate their healing journeys. Using drama therapy, you become your own guide in reshaping your narrative, fostering supportive self-talk and self-image.
(929) 543-5823 View (929) 543-5823
Photo of Christina Sarno Horner, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Christina Sarno Horner
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10021
Chronic Pain sufferers: I work from the perspective that chronic pain is constructed both physically and psychologically and that awareness of our unique emotions, ideas and expectations about our pain is a principal therapeutic ingredient toward healing.
Sometimes normal life challenges like changing careers, becoming a parent or changes in relationships can contribute to difficult emotions and result in behavior that make us feel stuck, unproductive or even self-destructive. For many, these experiences also leave us feeling anxious, depressed and sometimes struggling with chronic physical conditions. Exploring how your current challenges relate to your temperament, past experiences and needs can give you the tools to feel better. I can provide the support and guidance needed to help you explore, develop awareness and make informed decisions you can feel confident about.
Chronic Pain sufferers: I work from the perspective that chronic pain is constructed both physically and psychologically and that awareness of our unique emotions, ideas and expectations about our pain is a principal therapeutic ingredient toward healing.
Sometimes normal life challenges like changing careers, becoming a parent or changes in relationships can contribute to difficult emotions and result in behavior that make us feel stuck, unproductive or even self-destructive. For many, these experiences also leave us feeling anxious, depressed and sometimes struggling with chronic physical conditions. Exploring how your current challenges relate to your temperament, past experiences and needs can give you the tools to feel better. I can provide the support and guidance needed to help you explore, develop awareness and make informed decisions you can feel confident about.
(347) 587-8448 View (347) 587-8448
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Randazzo, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Stephanie Randazzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
My passion lies in supporting individuals with anxiety, panic attacks, and the impact of chronic pain.
As a clinical psychologist who treats chronic pain, anxiety disorders, and OCD, I am dedicated to helping adults navigate the complexities of these conditions. If you’re living with chronic pain, panic attacks, phobias, or persistent anxiety, you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Clients often reach out when they are looking for support in changing their actions to move towards their values in life. In our therapy sessions, we’ll focus on understanding your unique experiences and leveraging your strengths to achieve meaningful change.
My passion lies in supporting individuals with anxiety, panic attacks, and the impact of chronic pain.
As a clinical psychologist who treats chronic pain, anxiety disorders, and OCD, I am dedicated to helping adults navigate the complexities of these conditions. If you’re living with chronic pain, panic attacks, phobias, or persistent anxiety, you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Clients often reach out when they are looking for support in changing their actions to move towards their values in life. In our therapy sessions, we’ll focus on understanding your unique experiences and leveraging your strengths to achieve meaningful change.
(628) 313-5767 View (628) 313-5767
Photo of Eva Margot Kant, LCSW, R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eva Margot Kant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10021  (Online Only)
Are you looking to make positive changes in your life? Choosing a skilled, knowledgeable and collaborative therapist is the first step. As an experienced sex/psychotherapist and medical social worker, I work with you as you navigate through life's transitions, cross that communication barrier, address a medical diagnosis or address issues of a sexual nature. I provide counseling for individuals and couples addressing chronic illness/ pain/disabilities, sexual/relationship issues, anxiety/depression and other challenges. I'm an attuned and empathic listener who provides a safe and supportive environment to work in to help you achieve your goals.
Are you looking to make positive changes in your life? Choosing a skilled, knowledgeable and collaborative therapist is the first step. As an experienced sex/psychotherapist and medical social worker, I work with you as you navigate through life's transitions, cross that communication barrier, address a medical diagnosis or address issues of a sexual nature. I provide counseling for individuals and couples addressing chronic illness/ pain/disabilities, sexual/relationship issues, anxiety/depression and other challenges. I'm an attuned and empathic listener who provides a safe and supportive environment to work in to help you achieve your goals.
(646) 681-4109 View (646) 681-4109
Photo of Laura Meli, PhD
Laura Meli
PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10022
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic pain.
At times, it can feel challenging to navigate growth and change on your own. I'd like to help you find clarity and relief. I see therapy as a collaborative space to increase self-understanding, practice healthy communication, and build self-compassion. In session, I lead with warmth and curiosity and love to connect with my patients through humor. Together, we can work to observe and deepen awareness of thought patterns and emotional experiences. Through this practice of self-reflection, we'll harness your strengths and bring new perspective to unhelpful thoughts, difficult or uncomfortable emotions, and unhealthy behaviors.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic pain.
At times, it can feel challenging to navigate growth and change on your own. I'd like to help you find clarity and relief. I see therapy as a collaborative space to increase self-understanding, practice healthy communication, and build self-compassion. In session, I lead with warmth and curiosity and love to connect with my patients through humor. Together, we can work to observe and deepen awareness of thought patterns and emotional experiences. Through this practice of self-reflection, we'll harness your strengths and bring new perspective to unhelpful thoughts, difficult or uncomfortable emotions, and unhealthy behaviors.
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Photo of Jess Freedman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jess Freedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Patricia Jo Ryan - Patricia Jo Ryan PhD PA, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Patricia Jo Ryan PhD PA
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028  (Online Only)
I have treated people with difficult-to-treat mental health problems such as, Chronic Pain, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Sleep Disorders, Anger Management, Migraine, TBI conditions, PTSD, and and Stroke recovery using Photobiomodultaion in combination with CBT therapy.
I am a licensed psychologist with more than 30 years experience in the field of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (CBT), a powerful cognitive behavioral technique, and an Associate Fellow of the Albert Ellis Institute. I teach people to become their own happier, healthy self. My practice is focused on active-directive strategies to help people gain stability and mental flexibility. I am actively licensed in both Florida and New York State.
I have treated people with difficult-to-treat mental health problems such as, Chronic Pain, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Sleep Disorders, Anger Management, Migraine, TBI conditions, PTSD, and and Stroke recovery using Photobiomodultaion in combination with CBT therapy.
I am a licensed psychologist with more than 30 years experience in the field of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (CBT), a powerful cognitive behavioral technique, and an Associate Fellow of the Albert Ellis Institute. I teach people to become their own happier, healthy self. My practice is focused on active-directive strategies to help people gain stability and mental flexibility. I am actively licensed in both Florida and New York State.
(941) 487-0976 View (941) 487-0976
Richard Travers
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
New York, NY 10055
I do insight oriented psychotherapy with clients interested in focusing on current issues and how they are effected by earlier life experiences, present conflicts and future possibilities. The issues I am best suited to address are depression, trauma, child abuse,aging, chronic illness, gay and lesbian/sexual orientation/ coming out
I do insight oriented psychotherapy with clients interested in focusing on current issues and how they are effected by earlier life experiences, present conflicts and future possibilities. The issues I am best suited to address are depression, trauma, child abuse,aging, chronic illness, gay and lesbian/sexual orientation/ coming out
(646) 759-0738 View (646) 759-0738
Photo of Michael Maher, PhD, Psychologist
Michael Maher
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10021
Areas of expertise include the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, OCD, OCD spectrum disorders, mood disorders, adult ADHD, health anxiety, and chronic pain.
I realize that it takes great courage to look for help. In working together with you, I will listen carefully to your problems and goals. It is my aim to make you feel comfortable, to understand your challenges, and to provide you with the most effective solutions available based on current research and expert practices. To do this I use evidence based treatments that have been tested to ensure they are effective while tailoring these to your own needs and goals. These include cognitive behavioral therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, mindfulness meditation, and motivational training to help clarify and accomplish your goals.
Areas of expertise include the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, OCD, OCD spectrum disorders, mood disorders, adult ADHD, health anxiety, and chronic pain.
I realize that it takes great courage to look for help. In working together with you, I will listen carefully to your problems and goals. It is my aim to make you feel comfortable, to understand your challenges, and to provide you with the most effective solutions available based on current research and expert practices. To do this I use evidence based treatments that have been tested to ensure they are effective while tailoring these to your own needs and goals. These include cognitive behavioral therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, mindfulness meditation, and motivational training to help clarify and accomplish your goals.
(917) 652-6957 View (917) 652-6957
Photo of Ariel Gustavo Lachman, PhD, Psychologist
Ariel Gustavo Lachman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
If you suffer from complex medical issues, pain management, and/or complications related to obesity, Dr. Lachman may be an especially good choice as a psychotherapist. He specializes in Health Psychology and has extensive training and clinical experience working with patients struggling with these and similar problems. In addition, he has been trained in Clinical Geropsychology and to treat patients with symptoms related to traumatic experiences. Internships within various medical settings, including the Palo Alto VA Hospital and Robert Wood Johnson Medical School has prepared him to identify the proper course of treatment needed for you.
If you suffer from complex medical issues, pain management, and/or complications related to obesity, Dr. Lachman may be an especially good choice as a psychotherapist. He specializes in Health Psychology and has extensive training and clinical experience working with patients struggling with these and similar problems. In addition, he has been trained in Clinical Geropsychology and to treat patients with symptoms related to traumatic experiences. Internships within various medical settings, including the Palo Alto VA Hospital and Robert Wood Johnson Medical School has prepared him to identify the proper course of treatment needed for you.
(646) 759-0762 View (646) 759-0762
Photo of Miriam Olenick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miriam Olenick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10128  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also have training in mindfulness and pain reprocessing therapy to help treat chronic pain.
Congratulations! If you're checking out therapists that means you've taken an important step towards personal growth. Whatever got you to this point - anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, career frustrations - It would be my honor to support you on your journey. Together we would not only work to manage symptoms and resolve problems, but also to help you understand yourself and your life on a deeper level.
I also have training in mindfulness and pain reprocessing therapy to help treat chronic pain.
Congratulations! If you're checking out therapists that means you've taken an important step towards personal growth. Whatever got you to this point - anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, career frustrations - It would be my honor to support you on your journey. Together we would not only work to manage symptoms and resolve problems, but also to help you understand yourself and your life on a deeper level.
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Photo of Kelsey Bates, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelsey Bates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017  (Online Only)
As your therapist who has navigated life with chronic illness and pain, I can provide space, emotional support, real life tools and solution focused techniques to improve your day to day.
You are a strong woman feeling overwhelmed navigating complex health issues such as chronic illness, chronic pain, anxiety, infertility or pregnancy loss. You are an intelligent, high achieving woman who is dealing with the grief of a diagnosis, pregnancy after loss, infertility or chronic illness. You are juggling it all: a career, family, a romantic partner, friends, dating and your health. You want to figure out a way to not just survive with women's health issues but to thrive and live your life fully each day. You need support, a place to process your grief and coping skills to walk through this difficult situation.
As your therapist who has navigated life with chronic illness and pain, I can provide space, emotional support, real life tools and solution focused techniques to improve your day to day.
You are a strong woman feeling overwhelmed navigating complex health issues such as chronic illness, chronic pain, anxiety, infertility or pregnancy loss. You are an intelligent, high achieving woman who is dealing with the grief of a diagnosis, pregnancy after loss, infertility or chronic illness. You are juggling it all: a career, family, a romantic partner, friends, dating and your health. You want to figure out a way to not just survive with women's health issues but to thrive and live your life fully each day. You need support, a place to process your grief and coping skills to walk through this difficult situation.
(202) 618-9881 View (202) 618-9881
Photo of Seigie Kennedy, PhD, Psychologist
Seigie Kennedy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10021  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult, and is full off stressful events. You don't have to go through it alone! If you are seeking evidence-based psychotherapy to help you achieve your goals, manage your symptoms effectively, or improve relationship satisfaction, I may be able to help you. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in sexual health, romantic relationships, and trauma. I use gold standard, evidence-based therapies to treat relationship distress, infidelity, sexual health issues, PTSD, chronic pain, and commonly co-occurring disorders such as anxiety and depression.
Life can be difficult, and is full off stressful events. You don't have to go through it alone! If you are seeking evidence-based psychotherapy to help you achieve your goals, manage your symptoms effectively, or improve relationship satisfaction, I may be able to help you. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in sexual health, romantic relationships, and trauma. I use gold standard, evidence-based therapies to treat relationship distress, infidelity, sexual health issues, PTSD, chronic pain, and commonly co-occurring disorders such as anxiety and depression.
(518) 282-2033 View (518) 282-2033
Photo of Martin Sussman, LCSW-R, CLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Martin Sussman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CLC
Verified Verified
Maspeth, NY 11378
I have been a practicing Social Worker for over 30 years. It has been my passion to help those in need . I graduated New York University in 1991 with a Masters Degree in Social Work and am also a Certified Life Coach. I also am the Vice President for a Private Not for Profit Social Service Agency in New York City serving those who live with mental illness, the homeless, HIV/AIDS, and Developmental Disabilities. In my private practice I have helped clients who have experienced depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, addictions and issues around self-esteem.
I have been a practicing Social Worker for over 30 years. It has been my passion to help those in need . I graduated New York University in 1991 with a Masters Degree in Social Work and am also a Certified Life Coach. I also am the Vice President for a Private Not for Profit Social Service Agency in New York City serving those who live with mental illness, the homeless, HIV/AIDS, and Developmental Disabilities. In my private practice I have helped clients who have experienced depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, addictions and issues around self-esteem.
(347) 757-4664 View (347) 757-4664
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.