Chronic Pain Therapists in Lewis Center, OH

Photo of Mary Valerie Wolff, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Valerie Wolff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewis Center, OH 43035  (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, victims of abuse (physical, emotional, verbal, sexual, spiritual), addictions (including internet addiction), Christian counseling, parenting issues, adoption, infertility issues, chronic pain managment, chronic illness issues, and crisis counseling.
I have provided psychotherapy services for over 35 years to individuals (adults and children), couples, and families. Once a therapeutic relationship is established, then a treatment plan is formulated based upon my client’s needs wherein each client’s inherent strengths are utilized to maximize growth and results. Resources are provided as an adjunct to the therapeutic process.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, victims of abuse (physical, emotional, verbal, sexual, spiritual), addictions (including internet addiction), Christian counseling, parenting issues, adoption, infertility issues, chronic pain managment, chronic illness issues, and crisis counseling.
I have provided psychotherapy services for over 35 years to individuals (adults and children), couples, and families. Once a therapeutic relationship is established, then a treatment plan is formulated based upon my client’s needs wherein each client’s inherent strengths are utilized to maximize growth and results. Resources are provided as an adjunct to the therapeutic process.
(740) 520-4925 View (740) 520-4925
Photo of Anthony (Tony) M Miller, PCC-Sup, ACCHT, Counselor
Anthony (Tony) M Miller
Counselor, PCC-Sup, ACCHT
Verified Verified
Lewis Center, OH 43035
I specialize in working with trauma, self sabotage, mood disorders, childhood abuse, relationship conflict, substance abuse/addiction and pain.
Are you suffering from trauma, anxiety, fear, shame, anger, addiction(substance, codependency or relationship), low self worth, relationship conflict, having difficulty managing stress, or are tired of pushing through life? Do you sabotage yourself in attempting to reach your potential or find it difficult to live joyfully, struggle with connecting passionately in relationships, or living life in the moment? I will support you in attracting and creating the life you want. I offer approaches that guide you from trying to figure out life to learning to live intentionally and passionately in the moment.
I specialize in working with trauma, self sabotage, mood disorders, childhood abuse, relationship conflict, substance abuse/addiction and pain.
Are you suffering from trauma, anxiety, fear, shame, anger, addiction(substance, codependency or relationship), low self worth, relationship conflict, having difficulty managing stress, or are tired of pushing through life? Do you sabotage yourself in attempting to reach your potential or find it difficult to live joyfully, struggle with connecting passionately in relationships, or living life in the moment? I will support you in attracting and creating the life you want. I offer approaches that guide you from trying to figure out life to learning to live intentionally and passionately in the moment.
(614) 333-0934 View (614) 333-0934
Photo of Clara Ann Huffman, LPC, Counselor
Clara Ann Huffman
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lewis Center, OH 43035
Clara Ann Huffman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. To all her future clients, Clara Ann looks forward to offering a safe space - to walk alongside one another through hardship. She uniquely offers enduring hope for change and persistent optimism for a better tomorrow. As a recent academic, Clara Ann further offers emerging techniques, a blend of historic and new theoretical perspectives, and a growing foundation of experience and knowledge. Alongside her passion for mental health and recovery, Clara Ann is an avid lover of nature, an emerging (slow) runner, and an amateur birder.
Clara Ann Huffman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. To all her future clients, Clara Ann looks forward to offering a safe space - to walk alongside one another through hardship. She uniquely offers enduring hope for change and persistent optimism for a better tomorrow. As a recent academic, Clara Ann further offers emerging techniques, a blend of historic and new theoretical perspectives, and a growing foundation of experience and knowledge. Alongside her passion for mental health and recovery, Clara Ann is an avid lover of nature, an emerging (slow) runner, and an amateur birder.
(614) 881-4729 View (614) 881-4729
Photo of Lifeway Counseling Centers - LifeWay Counseling Centers, PhD, MD, LPCC, LCSW, Psychologist
LifeWay Counseling Centers
Psychologist, PhD, MD, LPCC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lewis Center, OH 43035
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, or other difficult situations? We can help you find hope, reach your goals, and enjoy the abundance of life for which you were created. Contact us today to schdeule your first apointment, where we help you find the right therapist for you.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, or other difficult situations? We can help you find hope, reach your goals, and enjoy the abundance of life for which you were created. Contact us today to schdeule your first apointment, where we help you find the right therapist for you.
(513) 769-4600 View (513) 769-4600
Photo of Kimberly Foreman, LISWS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Foreman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISWS
Verified Verified
Lewis Center, OH 43035
My ideal client is ready to do the hard work of making real change in their life. Sometimes, people think change has to be big to start therapeutic services; it doesn’t. Sometimes, learning to breathe, decrease anxiety, and be more mindful of your strengths can become a great asset. Therapy doesn’t have to be forever; sometimes, you just need help getting through the now. I help individuals & families dealing with chronic illnesses and end of life. At times like those, crises often happen: medical conflict, spiritual conflict, familial conflict, financial concerns, housing and food insecurity.
My ideal client is ready to do the hard work of making real change in their life. Sometimes, people think change has to be big to start therapeutic services; it doesn’t. Sometimes, learning to breathe, decrease anxiety, and be more mindful of your strengths can become a great asset. Therapy doesn’t have to be forever; sometimes, you just need help getting through the now. I help individuals & families dealing with chronic illnesses and end of life. At times like those, crises often happen: medical conflict, spiritual conflict, familial conflict, financial concerns, housing and food insecurity.
(740) 677-6625 View (740) 677-6625
Photo of Shaun B O'Ryan, MACPC, LPCC-S, Counselor
Shaun B O'Ryan
Counselor, MACPC, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Lewis Center, OH 43035
I began practicing in 2004, seeing children and teens, and working with their parents. Over the years I have broadened my scope of practice to include working with adults and couples as well. An initial focus on young clients' issues like ADHD, depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues like ODD and CD, has grown into addressing a wider number of issues including anxiety disorders (including phobias, PTSD, etc.), marital issues, depression in adults, and so on.
I began practicing in 2004, seeing children and teens, and working with their parents. Over the years I have broadened my scope of practice to include working with adults and couples as well. An initial focus on young clients' issues like ADHD, depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues like ODD and CD, has grown into addressing a wider number of issues including anxiety disorders (including phobias, PTSD, etc.), marital issues, depression in adults, and so on.
(614) 468-5064 View (614) 468-5064
Photo of Amy Smitke - TheraVault LLC, LISW-S, LICDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
TheraVault LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lewis Center, OH 43035
Are you nervous about starting treatment? Are you unsure about opening up to a stranger? At TheraVault, our clinicians are warm, inviting, supportive, and hear to listen and help you through your challenges in life, big or small. We have a variety of clinicians with different skill set sets and training to meet client needs. We approach care as well rounded and holistic as possible. As individuals we are not 2 dimensional and neither should our healing journey. If you are new to therapy and unsure of what to expect, we can make the first step easy for you, if you have been to therapy before we can pick up where you left off or restart if needed. Our goal is to help you with your goals, if you aren't sure what those are we can help you explore what you might not be able to put into words. Being vulnerable is scary, overwhelming, and difficult. You don't have to have all the answers, show up and allow us to walk with your through this difficult time.
Are you nervous about starting treatment? Are you unsure about opening up to a stranger? At TheraVault, our clinicians are warm, inviting, supportive, and hear to listen and help you through your challenges in life, big or small. We have a variety of clinicians with different skill set sets and training to meet client needs. We approach care as well rounded and holistic as possible. As individuals we are not 2 dimensional and neither should our healing journey. If you are new to therapy and unsure of what to expect, we can make the first step easy for you, if you have been to therapy before we can pick up where you left off or restart if needed. Our goal is to help you with your goals, if you aren't sure what those are we can help you explore what you might not be able to put into words. Being vulnerable is scary, overwhelming, and difficult. You don't have to have all the answers, show up and allow us to walk with your through this difficult time.
(440) 517-4961 View (440) 517-4961
Photo of Scott Anthony Nicola, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scott Anthony Nicola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewis Center, OH 43035
I enjoy working with those in helping professions like healthcare, education, law enforcement, and social work. Many are called to this work because they are empathetic and find it meaningful and fulfilling. Sometimes we spend so much time and energy caring for the needs of others that we fail to make time for our own self care and opportunities for wellness. I offer supportive therapy tailored to help people utilize their unique qualities and skills to bring comfort, healing and equanimity to their own lives.
I enjoy working with those in helping professions like healthcare, education, law enforcement, and social work. Many are called to this work because they are empathetic and find it meaningful and fulfilling. Sometimes we spend so much time and energy caring for the needs of others that we fail to make time for our own self care and opportunities for wellness. I offer supportive therapy tailored to help people utilize their unique qualities and skills to bring comfort, healing and equanimity to their own lives.
(740) 273-3518 View (740) 273-3518
Photo of Brent Flory, MA, LPCC
Brent Flory
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lewis Center, OH 43035
Accepting new clients, but unavailable for consultations until 7/29. Are you navigating an overwhelming storm of anxiety, depression, or grief? Have you tried everything you can think of to get rid of difficult thoughts and emotions and just feel more stuck? I hear you. I believe that it is just plain wrong for anyone to feel like there is no hope for them to heal and recover. If you are navigating difficult emotions (anxiety or depression) or life circumstances (like change or some form of loss), I can help. I strive to empower and equip clients with the support and tools they need to navigate the challenges they face.
Accepting new clients, but unavailable for consultations until 7/29. Are you navigating an overwhelming storm of anxiety, depression, or grief? Have you tried everything you can think of to get rid of difficult thoughts and emotions and just feel more stuck? I hear you. I believe that it is just plain wrong for anyone to feel like there is no hope for them to heal and recover. If you are navigating difficult emotions (anxiety or depression) or life circumstances (like change or some form of loss), I can help. I strive to empower and equip clients with the support and tools they need to navigate the challenges they face.
(614) 210-3815 View (614) 210-3815

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Betsy Harlan, MSEd, LPCC, Counselor
Betsy Harlan
Counselor, MSEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist who uses EMDR and other proven techniques, to help clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, chronic illness, chronic pain, medical trauma, difficult childhood experiences, attachment issues, and dissociation. EMDR based therapy for chronic pain is effective in many cases of low back pain, migraine, fibromyalgia, neuropathy, whiplash, irritable bowel syndrome, and sexual pain disorder. Other types of pain may respond favorably, as well. As a result of our work together you should have a clearer view of yourself, feel calmer, more positive, be able to make better life decisions, and experience improved quality of life.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist who uses EMDR and other proven techniques, to help clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, chronic illness, chronic pain, medical trauma, difficult childhood experiences, attachment issues, and dissociation. EMDR based therapy for chronic pain is effective in many cases of low back pain, migraine, fibromyalgia, neuropathy, whiplash, irritable bowel syndrome, and sexual pain disorder. Other types of pain may respond favorably, as well. As a result of our work together you should have a clearer view of yourself, feel calmer, more positive, be able to make better life decisions, and experience improved quality of life.
(614) 721-8239 View (614) 721-8239
Photo of Emily Caldwell, CT, Counselor
Emily Caldwell
Counselor, CT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
I specialize in working with children, with those who have pregnancy/postpartum struggles, and with those suffering from chronic pain.
Are you looking for help for your child? Or are you suffering from the stress of pregnancy or the heaviness of postpartum issues? Or do you suffer from chronic pain? Know that there is great relief and healing found through the use of art therapy. In fact, art therapy approaches can bring noticeable improvement in a handful of sessions. Also, art therapy is for anyone! You don't have to have experience or talent in this area to benefit from the interventions I offer.
I specialize in working with children, with those who have pregnancy/postpartum struggles, and with those suffering from chronic pain.
Are you looking for help for your child? Or are you suffering from the stress of pregnancy or the heaviness of postpartum issues? Or do you suffer from chronic pain? Know that there is great relief and healing found through the use of art therapy. In fact, art therapy approaches can bring noticeable improvement in a handful of sessions. Also, art therapy is for anyone! You don't have to have experience or talent in this area to benefit from the interventions I offer.
(740) 619-2442 View (740) 619-2442
Photo of Kim Whitt, LISW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Whitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085  (Online Only)
To help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
My focus is to help individuals heal, take action in their lives, and become aware of their inner strengths. This is achieved by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan together. My approach is ideal for those suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, chronic pain, and highly sensitive people.
To help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
My focus is to help individuals heal, take action in their lives, and become aware of their inner strengths. This is achieved by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan together. My approach is ideal for those suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, chronic pain, and highly sensitive people.
(513) 506-0182 View (513) 506-0182
Photo of Laura Lee Townsend - Trauma Therapist, LMFT, IMFT, LPCC, CHHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Lee Townsend - Trauma Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IMFT, LPCC, CHHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
You just want to feel better. Trauma has turned you into someone you don’t even recognize. You’re constantly on edge and can’t sleep. If sleep does come, it’s often restless and filled with nightmares. Your creativity, performance, and professionalism is suffering. You often feel tremendous guilt and shame; no one understands what it's like. Or maybe you stuff the hurt, pain, and disappointment down deep inside so no one sees it. You know how to put on a good, happy face for others. The emptiness and loneliness seem unbearable. Or maybe this describes your loved one who you can’t seem to reach no matter how hard you try.
You just want to feel better. Trauma has turned you into someone you don’t even recognize. You’re constantly on edge and can’t sleep. If sleep does come, it’s often restless and filled with nightmares. Your creativity, performance, and professionalism is suffering. You often feel tremendous guilt and shame; no one understands what it's like. Or maybe you stuff the hurt, pain, and disappointment down deep inside so no one sees it. You know how to put on a good, happy face for others. The emptiness and loneliness seem unbearable. Or maybe this describes your loved one who you can’t seem to reach no matter how hard you try.
(220) 270-0021 View (220) 270-0021
Photo of Melissa Foster, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
Don’t let the pain of the past hold you back any longer-I encourage you to reach out and schedule a free consultation with me today.
My ideal client is someone ready to make changes in their life. Feeling the impact of stress, burn out or vicarious trauma? Experience an on the job accident or critical incident? I am a certified EMDR therapist with a passion for helping other helping professionals and high risk occupations (first responders, nurses, military) (and their families age 14+) overcome the challenges that life can bring. In addition to the typical outpatient appointment model, I offer extended therapy session for intensives (90+ mins). My approach to therapy is centered on empathy, active listening, and providing a safe and nurturing environment.
Don’t let the pain of the past hold you back any longer-I encourage you to reach out and schedule a free consultation with me today.
My ideal client is someone ready to make changes in their life. Feeling the impact of stress, burn out or vicarious trauma? Experience an on the job accident or critical incident? I am a certified EMDR therapist with a passion for helping other helping professionals and high risk occupations (first responders, nurses, military) (and their families age 14+) overcome the challenges that life can bring. In addition to the typical outpatient appointment model, I offer extended therapy session for intensives (90+ mins). My approach to therapy is centered on empathy, active listening, and providing a safe and nurturing environment.
(614) 763-1979 View (614) 763-1979
Photo of Sue Dindal, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sue Dindal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have personal experience with chronic pain and fibromyalgia, having experienced the effect of fibromyalgia for years.
Hi! My name is Sue and I've been in the counseling and social work field for over 30 years. I have a deep-seated belief in the value and worth of every individual. If you are feeling stressed, depressed or just overwhelmed, let's talk about how couseling can help promote growth and healing. Working together we can help you identify and resolve issues that are causing distress and help you look forward to a more positive future.
I have personal experience with chronic pain and fibromyalgia, having experienced the effect of fibromyalgia for years.
Hi! My name is Sue and I've been in the counseling and social work field for over 30 years. I have a deep-seated belief in the value and worth of every individual. If you are feeling stressed, depressed or just overwhelmed, let's talk about how couseling can help promote growth and healing. Working together we can help you identify and resolve issues that are causing distress and help you look forward to a more positive future.
(380) 207-1403 View (380) 207-1403
Photo of Dani Hanlin, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dani Hanlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Not accepting new clients
I'm familiar with anxiety, depression, PTSD/C-PTSD, chronic illness, trauma, divorce, relationship issues, grief, weight issues, suicide, and suicidal ideation.
Not accepting new clients at this time - - - I am here as an unbiased listener. I believe there is no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to therapy. Every individual is different, including myself, and we all come to therapy with different backgrounds, cultures, world views, and experiences. I use a collaborative and holistic approach with a focus on the mind-body connection, and it is my goal to provide you with intentional, sustainable, and practical tools.
I'm familiar with anxiety, depression, PTSD/C-PTSD, chronic illness, trauma, divorce, relationship issues, grief, weight issues, suicide, and suicidal ideation.
Not accepting new clients at this time - - - I am here as an unbiased listener. I believe there is no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to therapy. Every individual is different, including myself, and we all come to therapy with different backgrounds, cultures, world views, and experiences. I use a collaborative and holistic approach with a focus on the mind-body connection, and it is my goal to provide you with intentional, sustainable, and practical tools.
(614) 660-5331 View (614) 660-5331
Photo of Nick Reichert, LISW-S , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nick Reichert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Powell, OH 43065
Anxiety, depression, and obsessive compulsive disorder are a few of the most common problems that I see on a regular basis. The thing that all of these people have in common is that they want to get better and to live their lives with fewer struggles. According to the CDC 1 in 5 Americans will suffer from a mental illness this year. Life is hard and too many people are suffering in silence. People need an experienced therapist to help them along their journey to recovery. The International OCD Foundation states that on average someone suffering from OCD takes 17 years to receive the proper diagnosis and treatment.
Anxiety, depression, and obsessive compulsive disorder are a few of the most common problems that I see on a regular basis. The thing that all of these people have in common is that they want to get better and to live their lives with fewer struggles. According to the CDC 1 in 5 Americans will suffer from a mental illness this year. Life is hard and too many people are suffering in silence. People need an experienced therapist to help them along their journey to recovery. The International OCD Foundation states that on average someone suffering from OCD takes 17 years to receive the proper diagnosis and treatment.
(740) 982-1955 View (740) 982-1955
Photo of Hannah Bisig, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Bisig
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Galena, OH 43021
Examples of grief include: loss of loved one, divorce, end of relationship, chronic illness, spiritual evolution, etc.
Hi, my name is Hannah Bisig (pronouns: she/her) and I look forward to working with you! I believe you hold the unique ability to overcome life’s challenges, and I’ll work to create a safe and authentic space where we can foster your healing and self-compassion. Our goal will be to achieve a space where you can love yourself and life much more fully.
Examples of grief include: loss of loved one, divorce, end of relationship, chronic illness, spiritual evolution, etc.
Hi, my name is Hannah Bisig (pronouns: she/her) and I look forward to working with you! I believe you hold the unique ability to overcome life’s challenges, and I’ll work to create a safe and authentic space where we can foster your healing and self-compassion. Our goal will be to achieve a space where you can love yourself and life much more fully.
(614) 665-8709 View (614) 665-8709
Cheryl Harstine
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43240
Life can overwhelm each of us with illness within the family, financial strain and feelings of disconnect in ourselves.
I am passionate about working to connect with clients from all walks of life. I know how difficult finding a balance in work and home life can be, as I navigate being a wife and a mother to an energetic child. With my clients I focus on providing a safe space for each individual to express and honor their voice to help establish and reconnect with each client’s own voice to honor your story and regain a better understanding of self with compassion. I received MS in Counseling &Art Therapy from Ursuline College. In 15 years, including in Cleveland Clinic hospitals, I have been inspired by my clients’ resilience even in dark times.
Life can overwhelm each of us with illness within the family, financial strain and feelings of disconnect in ourselves.
I am passionate about working to connect with clients from all walks of life. I know how difficult finding a balance in work and home life can be, as I navigate being a wife and a mother to an energetic child. With my clients I focus on providing a safe space for each individual to express and honor their voice to help establish and reconnect with each client’s own voice to honor your story and regain a better understanding of self with compassion. I received MS in Counseling &Art Therapy from Ursuline College. In 15 years, including in Cleveland Clinic hospitals, I have been inspired by my clients’ resilience even in dark times.
(440) 740-3688 View (440) 740-3688
Photo of Erin Beach, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Beach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
I am extremely passionate about helping people discover the best version of themselves. Life can be difficult and challenging, and If you find yourself in survival mode struggling to find stability during difficult times of change, I can help provide you with a safe space to explore and process. Whether it’s anxiety, chronic illness, depression, trauma, or relationship/family distress, I can help you to heal and grow. I aim to help provide an opportunity for clients to take a deep dive to get to the root of the issue allowing long term healing and change. I believe anything is possible when you show up for yourself in therapy.
I am extremely passionate about helping people discover the best version of themselves. Life can be difficult and challenging, and If you find yourself in survival mode struggling to find stability during difficult times of change, I can help provide you with a safe space to explore and process. Whether it’s anxiety, chronic illness, depression, trauma, or relationship/family distress, I can help you to heal and grow. I aim to help provide an opportunity for clients to take a deep dive to get to the root of the issue allowing long term healing and change. I believe anything is possible when you show up for yourself in therapy.
(740) 217-4754 View (740) 217-4754

See more therapy options for Lewis Center

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.