Photo of Tessa Basco, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tessa Basco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
Her areas of expertise include: personality disorder, anxiety and depression disorders, chronic pain, and perinatal mood disorders.
Tessa Basco earned her master’s degree in social work from the University of Akron in 2015. She is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 10 years of experience in the field. Tessa specializes in treating the lifespan and has experience with people of all ages; with a specific focus on treating adolescents and young adults.
Her areas of expertise include: personality disorder, anxiety and depression disorders, chronic pain, and perinatal mood disorders.
Tessa Basco earned her master’s degree in social work from the University of Akron in 2015. She is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 10 years of experience in the field. Tessa specializes in treating the lifespan and has experience with people of all ages; with a specific focus on treating adolescents and young adults.
(234) 319-8326 View (234) 319-8326
Photo of Michelle Bertman - Catholic Charities Geauga County, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catholic Charities Geauga County
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chardon, OH 44024
Catholic Charities Geauga County serves families, couples, and individuals of all ages with mental health, relationship, and substance use issues. We take a holistic and person center approach to meet each person and family’s needs and collaborate extensively with other community agencies, hospitals, and residential programs.
Catholic Charities Geauga County serves families, couples, and individuals of all ages with mental health, relationship, and substance use issues. We take a holistic and person center approach to meet each person and family’s needs and collaborate extensively with other community agencies, hospitals, and residential programs.
(440) 271-3842 View (440) 271-3842
Photo of Lauren Kustec, LPCC
Lauren Kustec
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
Lauren Kustec is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of Akron and her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Franciscan University of Steubenville. Lauren has experience working with individuals, couples, and families from various backgrounds and of all ages. Lauren has provided treatment to individuals with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, PTSD, personality disorders, and other mental health issues that impact daily living.
Lauren Kustec is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of Akron and her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Franciscan University of Steubenville. Lauren has experience working with individuals, couples, and families from various backgrounds and of all ages. Lauren has provided treatment to individuals with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, PTSD, personality disorders, and other mental health issues that impact daily living.
(440) 754-7967 View (440) 754-7967
Photo of Roseann D'Agati, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roseann D'Agati
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
My goal as a therapist is to provide you with a safe, comfortable, and friendly environment to work through your individual or family challenges. I aim to help you navigate the complex world that we live in. Whether the challenges you and your family face are related to the current stressors in your life, or past trauma you have experienced, I will work with you to identify the core issue and obtain the skills needed to help you develop a healthy and rewarding life. My primary focus is currently working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families, but I also have experience working with adults.
My goal as a therapist is to provide you with a safe, comfortable, and friendly environment to work through your individual or family challenges. I aim to help you navigate the complex world that we live in. Whether the challenges you and your family face are related to the current stressors in your life, or past trauma you have experienced, I will work with you to identify the core issue and obtain the skills needed to help you develop a healthy and rewarding life. My primary focus is currently working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families, but I also have experience working with adults.
(440) 530-9441 View (440) 530-9441

Online Therapists

Photo of Derek Stegner, LPCC
Derek Stegner
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC
Verified Verified
Hudson, OH 44236  (Online Only)
I have many years of experience working with early childhood trauma and severe, persistent mental illness, varying from ages of 5 years to 70+. My goal is to empower and advocate for positive change within you, as the individual, and the system as a whole. The place that we will create together is a safe and judgement free space. I work through an Existential foundation, to help those I work with seek meaning and purpose, with skills built from experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, all within the context of a trauma-informed approach.
I have many years of experience working with early childhood trauma and severe, persistent mental illness, varying from ages of 5 years to 70+. My goal is to empower and advocate for positive change within you, as the individual, and the system as a whole. The place that we will create together is a safe and judgement free space. I work through an Existential foundation, to help those I work with seek meaning and purpose, with skills built from experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, all within the context of a trauma-informed approach.
(330) 359-1833 View (330) 359-1833
Lois A Fridenstine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S, ACHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oberlin, OH 44074
Other areas of specialization are Foster care/Adoption; Domestic Violence including children who have seen a parent murder the other parent; Relationships; Chronic Illness; Alcoholic family systems; Behavior management; Self-esteem; and Parenting.
Children, families and adults are very special to me. Children ages 0-10, pre-teens, teens, college students and adults of all ages. Parent/Giuardian involvement, both father and mother, is mandatory when working with children. I have extensive training and experience in trauma treatment, family therapy, ADHD assessment and treatment and anxiety. My areas of specialization include depression; anxiety; trauma issues including rape, incest and childhood/adult emotional, physical and sexual abuse, neglect and poverty; grief and loss; and life adjustment.
Other areas of specialization are Foster care/Adoption; Domestic Violence including children who have seen a parent murder the other parent; Relationships; Chronic Illness; Alcoholic family systems; Behavior management; Self-esteem; and Parenting.
Children, families and adults are very special to me. Children ages 0-10, pre-teens, teens, college students and adults of all ages. Parent/Giuardian involvement, both father and mother, is mandatory when working with children. I have extensive training and experience in trauma treatment, family therapy, ADHD assessment and treatment and anxiety. My areas of specialization include depression; anxiety; trauma issues including rape, incest and childhood/adult emotional, physical and sexual abuse, neglect and poverty; grief and loss; and life adjustment.
(440) 424-4365 View (440) 424-4365
Photo of Ryan L Dunn - New Life Counseling, PhD, Psychologist
New Life Counseling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dover, OH 44622
Services offered include treatment for Depression & Anxiety, Marriage & Family Problems, Parenting & Child Behavioral Problems, Post-Trauma Problems, Pain Management, and Attention-Deficit & Hyperactivity.
Dr. Dunn is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in providing treatment to adults. Born and raised in Holmes County, Ohio he served as a U.S. Air Force Psychologist for four years before establishing a private practice in Columbus, and then in 1998 opened New Life Counseling in Dover. As the founder and director of our agency, he has created a team of clinicians who provide excellent therapeutic care. In addition to treatment of depression, anxiety, and marital and family problems, he provides more specialized treatment in pain management. He and his family live near Dover, and they are active in a local church.
Services offered include treatment for Depression & Anxiety, Marriage & Family Problems, Parenting & Child Behavioral Problems, Post-Trauma Problems, Pain Management, and Attention-Deficit & Hyperactivity.
Dr. Dunn is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in providing treatment to adults. Born and raised in Holmes County, Ohio he served as a U.S. Air Force Psychologist for four years before establishing a private practice in Columbus, and then in 1998 opened New Life Counseling in Dover. As the founder and director of our agency, he has created a team of clinicians who provide excellent therapeutic care. In addition to treatment of depression, anxiety, and marital and family problems, he provides more specialized treatment in pain management. He and his family live near Dover, and they are active in a local church.
(330) 529-8999 View (330) 529-8999
Photo of Joseph A Humphries, MSEd, NCC, LSW, LPCC, Counselor
Joseph A Humphries
Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
Youngstown, OH 44514
Over the past several years I have worked with injured and displaced workers who are struggling with employment issues and chronic pain.
My name is Joe Humphries. I am an LPCC and have been practicing in the Youngstown area for the past 18 years. I work with all ages and can help you address problems with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, adjustment problems, and grief. Other areas of focus in my practice include: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, parenting skills training, anger management, behavior management, and Attention Deficit Disorder.
Over the past several years I have worked with injured and displaced workers who are struggling with employment issues and chronic pain.
My name is Joe Humphries. I am an LPCC and have been practicing in the Youngstown area for the past 18 years. I work with all ages and can help you address problems with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, adjustment problems, and grief. Other areas of focus in my practice include: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, parenting skills training, anger management, behavior management, and Attention Deficit Disorder.
(330) 680-5264 View (330) 680-5264
Photo of John A Glovan, PsyD, Psychologist
John A Glovan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mentor, OH 44060
INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT PROGRAM (IOP) Exhausted, stressed, overwhelmed? Unable to accomplish day to day activities, your job or schoolwork? Struggling with pain, stomach issues, high blood pressure or diabetes? Can't sleep, concentrate or have changes in your appetite or weight? Been more frustrated and irritable? Are you depressed and anxious and don't know where to turn? You don't need to suffer in silence anymore. I developed the Health and Wellness Intensive Outpatient Program with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and proven coping skills to help you reclaim yourself and your life!
INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT PROGRAM (IOP) Exhausted, stressed, overwhelmed? Unable to accomplish day to day activities, your job or schoolwork? Struggling with pain, stomach issues, high blood pressure or diabetes? Can't sleep, concentrate or have changes in your appetite or weight? Been more frustrated and irritable? Are you depressed and anxious and don't know where to turn? You don't need to suffer in silence anymore. I developed the Health and Wellness Intensive Outpatient Program with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and proven coping skills to help you reclaim yourself and your life!
(440) 261-4276 x302 View (440) 261-4276 x302
Photo of Carol A Leslie - Carol A Leslie - Hypnotherapy-Wellness-Reiki, ACHT, CWC, OT-Ret, Occupational Therapist
Carol A Leslie - Hypnotherapy-Wellness-Reiki
Occupational Therapist, ACHT, CWC, OT-Ret
Not Verified Not Verified
My experience is far reaching from forensics, in-outpatient acute psychiatry, in-outpatient acute care rehabilitation, chronic pain management, pediatrics and developmental delay, skilled nursing facilities.
Carol A Leslie ACHT, CWC, OT-ret - Hypnotherapy is prime treatment for trauma, anxiety, panic, chronic conditions and negative behaviors! Additional strategies offered to those with emotional, or physical, dysfunction. Eliminate the negative impact on your mental state, work, school, home or sabotaged wellness goals! 20 years' leadership in Psychiatry at the Cleveland Clinic enabled me to treat all aspects of mental illness plus emotional impact of Crohn's, IBD, transplant, PTSD, and chemical dependency. Retired Occupational Therapist, and Wellness Coach, I also look at all systems in a person's life, their "mind-body occupation."
My experience is far reaching from forensics, in-outpatient acute psychiatry, in-outpatient acute care rehabilitation, chronic pain management, pediatrics and developmental delay, skilled nursing facilities.
Carol A Leslie ACHT, CWC, OT-ret - Hypnotherapy is prime treatment for trauma, anxiety, panic, chronic conditions and negative behaviors! Additional strategies offered to those with emotional, or physical, dysfunction. Eliminate the negative impact on your mental state, work, school, home or sabotaged wellness goals! 20 years' leadership in Psychiatry at the Cleveland Clinic enabled me to treat all aspects of mental illness plus emotional impact of Crohn's, IBD, transplant, PTSD, and chemical dependency. Retired Occupational Therapist, and Wellness Coach, I also look at all systems in a person's life, their "mind-body occupation."
(216) 303-6392 View (216) 303-6392
Photo of Susan Adams, LPCC, AT, MA, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, AT, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Westlake, OH 44145  (Online Only)
Hope for the Journey is my professional motto. My goal is to partner with you on your life's journey as we find healing, peace, hope and authenticity. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I specialize in working with woman facing a variety of challenges including feeling overwhelmed, stressed, depressed, having relationship issues, grief, anger, chronic illness, anxiety, difficulty sleeping and more. Treatment is uniquely tailored to meet your needs. I am ready to help!
Hope for the Journey is my professional motto. My goal is to partner with you on your life's journey as we find healing, peace, hope and authenticity. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I specialize in working with woman facing a variety of challenges including feeling overwhelmed, stressed, depressed, having relationship issues, grief, anger, chronic illness, anxiety, difficulty sleeping and more. Treatment is uniquely tailored to meet your needs. I am ready to help!
(440) 310-6361 View (440) 310-6361
Photo of Terence Alexander Rozzell - Terence Rozzell Restoration Therapist , LICDC, LPCC
Terence Rozzell Restoration Therapist
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LICDC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
You want a therapist who is passionate & loves people, who has multiple, not singular experiences, who believes in therapy enough to go themselves. I go as preventive medicine. Originally from NYC, have always had friends, associates, relationships with persons from every culture.  This has been extremely valuable in developing my clinical skills and ability to understand and help a wide variety of people from various backgrounds.  The next invaluable contribution to my clinical skills is my Mother, Elizabeth, who taught me, "Everyone I know knows something I don't."  This makes every single person of unique intrinsic value.
You want a therapist who is passionate & loves people, who has multiple, not singular experiences, who believes in therapy enough to go themselves. I go as preventive medicine. Originally from NYC, have always had friends, associates, relationships with persons from every culture.  This has been extremely valuable in developing my clinical skills and ability to understand and help a wide variety of people from various backgrounds.  The next invaluable contribution to my clinical skills is my Mother, Elizabeth, who taught me, "Everyone I know knows something I don't."  This makes every single person of unique intrinsic value.
(234) 224-1492 View (234) 224-1492
Photo of Dawn Swartz, LPCC-S, LSW, LICDC, Counselor
Dawn Swartz
Counselor, LPCC-S, LSW, LICDC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grafton, OH 44044
TELEHEALTH NOW AVAILABLE! As the owner and one of 7 therapists at Aaron's Hope, I am passionate about addressing the holistic needs of the individual. I want to collaborate with each person to develop a plan rooted in evidenced-based treatment and tailored to their unique needs. I feel strongly that therapy is not something that is done to you, but with you. I feel you are the expert on yourself, knowing intimately what you have been through, how you have tried to change in the past, and where you want to be in the future. Both my associates and I are ready to help you get there.
TELEHEALTH NOW AVAILABLE! As the owner and one of 7 therapists at Aaron's Hope, I am passionate about addressing the holistic needs of the individual. I want to collaborate with each person to develop a plan rooted in evidenced-based treatment and tailored to their unique needs. I feel strongly that therapy is not something that is done to you, but with you. I feel you are the expert on yourself, knowing intimately what you have been through, how you have tried to change in the past, and where you want to be in the future. Both my associates and I are ready to help you get there.
(440) 703-6531 View (440) 703-6531
Photo of Beth Tamborski, LPCC-S, Counselor
Beth Tamborski
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m glad you’ve decided to reach out for counseling, as I know it can often be a difficult step to take. I look forward to getting to know you as you explore what brought you here. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field working with individuals of all age ranges. I enjoy working with individuals and couples and utilize a person-centered approach, where I meet each individual where they are at on their journey towards wellness. I believe in the mind-body connection and the importance of using a holistic approach to building resilience and meeting life’s challenges.
Welcome! I’m glad you’ve decided to reach out for counseling, as I know it can often be a difficult step to take. I look forward to getting to know you as you explore what brought you here. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field working with individuals of all age ranges. I enjoy working with individuals and couples and utilize a person-centered approach, where I meet each individual where they are at on their journey towards wellness. I believe in the mind-body connection and the importance of using a holistic approach to building resilience and meeting life’s challenges.
(216) 677-3238 View (216) 677-3238
Photo of Andrew Linder, MAEd, LPCC, Counselor
Andrew Linder
Counselor, MAEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221  (Online Only)
You want to appear successful & like you have it “all together” but deep down are struggling to feel confident in who you are or cope with challenging experiences that have occurred in your life. Instead you just watch Star Wars, The Office, Friends, Big Bang, or any other things you've seen, done or played a million times. I get it. But you are ready to stop feeling numb and disassociating. You're ready to stop letting those intrusive negative thoughts dictate your life. You're ready to dig deep and change those "default settings" into something positive that you create.
You want to appear successful & like you have it “all together” but deep down are struggling to feel confident in who you are or cope with challenging experiences that have occurred in your life. Instead you just watch Star Wars, The Office, Friends, Big Bang, or any other things you've seen, done or played a million times. I get it. But you are ready to stop feeling numb and disassociating. You're ready to stop letting those intrusive negative thoughts dictate your life. You're ready to dig deep and change those "default settings" into something positive that you create.
(937) 813-6238 View (937) 813-6238
Photo of Lana Amawi, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lana Amawi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake, OH 44145
Looking for a therapist to fulfill your needs is not an easy task when you are ready to face some difficult issues. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or needing direction with personal or professional relationships? I will help to teach you the necessary tools to healthier relationships, greater mental well-being, becoming more efficient at home and work and finally have a more positive outlook on the future. These tools are priceless and when used can demonstrate almost immediate results.
Looking for a therapist to fulfill your needs is not an easy task when you are ready to face some difficult issues. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or needing direction with personal or professional relationships? I will help to teach you the necessary tools to healthier relationships, greater mental well-being, becoming more efficient at home and work and finally have a more positive outlook on the future. These tools are priceless and when used can demonstrate almost immediate results.
(248) 302-1074 View (248) 302-1074
Photo of Justin Shelton, PsyD, Psychologist
Justin Shelton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Warren, OH 44484
Dr. Shelton is a clinical psychologist, born and raised in the Mahoning Valley. He has experience working in a variety of settings, including community mental health, behavioral schools, college counseling, outpatient clinics, inpatient hospitals and corrections. He enjoys working with a wide range of patient populations of all ages and demographics, providing individual, family, and couples psychotherapy. Over the course of his career, Dr. Shelton has worked with patients struggling with a multitude of concerns, including anxiety, depression, identity concerns, behavioral problems, schizophrenia, personality disorders and more.
Dr. Shelton is a clinical psychologist, born and raised in the Mahoning Valley. He has experience working in a variety of settings, including community mental health, behavioral schools, college counseling, outpatient clinics, inpatient hospitals and corrections. He enjoys working with a wide range of patient populations of all ages and demographics, providing individual, family, and couples psychotherapy. Over the course of his career, Dr. Shelton has worked with patients struggling with a multitude of concerns, including anxiety, depression, identity concerns, behavioral problems, schizophrenia, personality disorders and more.
(330) 654-6495 View (330) 654-6495
Photo of Beth Tibbetts Williams, MEd, LPCC-S, Counselor
Beth Tibbetts Williams
Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky River, OH 44116
Counseling can help with issues such as communication difficulties, marital/relationship concerns, life changes, stress/anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and behavioral problems. Clients come to me with an overall feeling that life could be better or more meaningful. I understand it can be challenging to reach out for help but remember that you are doing to make positive changes in your life! Please contact me and we can discuss your needs and decide together if I am the best option for you. My direct email is beth@fitmindcleveland.com or call me directly at 216-509-6511.
Counseling can help with issues such as communication difficulties, marital/relationship concerns, life changes, stress/anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and behavioral problems. Clients come to me with an overall feeling that life could be better or more meaningful. I understand it can be challenging to reach out for help but remember that you are doing to make positive changes in your life! Please contact me and we can discuss your needs and decide together if I am the best option for you. My direct email is beth@fitmindcleveland.com or call me directly at 216-509-6511.
(216) 672-5876 View (216) 672-5876
Photo of Adele M Gerke, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adele M Gerke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Austintown, OH 44515
Adele Gerke received both her Bachelor's Degree in Social Work and a Master of Social Work Degree from Youngstown State University. Ms. Gerke provides mental health services with compassion, empathy, a nondirective approach and without judgement. Ms. Gerke is a firm believer in providing a nurturing environment where clients can discuss current issues and/or concerns. Ms. Gerke has the understanding of how the past, present and even the future can affect thoughts, emotions and behaviors. Collaborating on treatment and goals with the client is the first step to improving mental health.
Adele Gerke received both her Bachelor's Degree in Social Work and a Master of Social Work Degree from Youngstown State University. Ms. Gerke provides mental health services with compassion, empathy, a nondirective approach and without judgement. Ms. Gerke is a firm believer in providing a nurturing environment where clients can discuss current issues and/or concerns. Ms. Gerke has the understanding of how the past, present and even the future can affect thoughts, emotions and behaviors. Collaborating on treatment and goals with the client is the first step to improving mental health.
(330) 222-8876 View (330) 222-8876
Photo of Anderson R Hawes, LPCC, LICDC, LSW, Counselor
Anderson R Hawes
Counselor, LPCC, LICDC, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Finding a compassionate and non-judgmental therapist is the first step to improve your quality of life and help you achieve outcomes that meet both present and future goals! I am an experienced Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Licensed Social Worker & Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor - with advanced professional training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Clinical Hypnosis, Gestalt Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma Recovery & Addictions - providing specialized psycho-social assessment, substance abuse assessments & effective treatments: addictions (heroin, opioid, rx drugs, alcohol, DUI, smoking, gambling, compulsive disorders), mental health, bi-polar, trauma recovery, depression, anxiety, family/couples/divorce, personality, emotional & adjustment problems. Free phone consultation!
Finding a compassionate and non-judgmental therapist is the first step to improve your quality of life and help you achieve outcomes that meet both present and future goals! I am an experienced Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Licensed Social Worker & Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor - with advanced professional training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Clinical Hypnosis, Gestalt Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma Recovery & Addictions - providing specialized psycho-social assessment, substance abuse assessments & effective treatments: addictions (heroin, opioid, rx drugs, alcohol, DUI, smoking, gambling, compulsive disorders), mental health, bi-polar, trauma recovery, depression, anxiety, family/couples/divorce, personality, emotional & adjustment problems. Free phone consultation!
(330) 391-7509 View (330) 391-7509

See more therapy options for Geauga County

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.