Chronic Pain Therapists in Northfield, OH
![Photo of Heather Anderson Boll- Integrated Somatic Healing Arts [Emdr - Ifs], MS, MFA, PTSD, Somatic, IFS, EMDR, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0958087-4a1d-4360-b889-c48d5b3d87b7/1/320x400.png)
Heather Anderson Boll- Integrated Somatic Healing Arts [Emdr - Ifs]
Counselor, MS, MFA, PTSD, Somatic, IFS, EMDR
Verified Verified
Northfield, OH 44067
I hold that you inherently deserve unconditional love and acceptance - and that healing must include the internal relationship to Self, in order to welcome a profound connectedness to others. I see trauma not as something wrong with you, but something right - a deep wisdom rising up that must be heard. In collaboration we will design the path that best serves your healing, whether through tools of immediate relief (like parasympathetic release / polyvagal theory) or in long arcs of subtle process toward deeper healing (like Somatic Internal Family Systems and EMDR).
I hold that you inherently deserve unconditional love and acceptance - and that healing must include the internal relationship to Self, in order to welcome a profound connectedness to others. I see trauma not as something wrong with you, but something right - a deep wisdom rising up that must be heard. In collaboration we will design the path that best serves your healing, whether through tools of immediate relief (like parasympathetic release / polyvagal theory) or in long arcs of subtle process toward deeper healing (like Somatic Internal Family Systems and EMDR).
![Photo of Ryan Witkowski, MA, LPCC-S, CAHPE, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f64c117e-0874-4c92-980e-53b7f354735f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I can help if...A small voice in your head tells you that something big needs to change. If you are tired of your internal experience of your self not matching the person that you live as day-to-day. If you feel exhausted comparing yourself to others, wanting to live the way you see other people living, yet struggling to make consistent and meaningful change. I can help guide and be with you as you recover from the lies and loss of trauma. These traumas and emotional imprints so often derive from our family or origin, current and past intimate relationships and the slow grind of neglect, invalidation and feeling alone.
I can help if...A small voice in your head tells you that something big needs to change. If you are tired of your internal experience of your self not matching the person that you live as day-to-day. If you feel exhausted comparing yourself to others, wanting to live the way you see other people living, yet struggling to make consistent and meaningful change. I can help guide and be with you as you recover from the lies and loss of trauma. These traumas and emotional imprints so often derive from our family or origin, current and past intimate relationships and the slow grind of neglect, invalidation and feeling alone.
![Photo of Martha Portman - Root Counseling, LLC, MA, LPCC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/343fdddb-02ba-46fc-81cf-0daf09548b17/1/320x400.jpeg)
Root Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northfield, OH 44067 (Online Only)
Our belief lies in establishing a therapeutic relationship with each client that is uniquely tailored to meet their needs. With a focus in attachment and client-centered care, we are equipped to help with a wide array of issues. Our main areas of concern are: trauma and C-PTSD, Codependency, EMDR, Parenting support, and general anxiety and depression issues.
Our belief lies in establishing a therapeutic relationship with each client that is uniquely tailored to meet their needs. With a focus in attachment and client-centered care, we are equipped to help with a wide array of issues. Our main areas of concern are: trauma and C-PTSD, Codependency, EMDR, Parenting support, and general anxiety and depression issues.
![Photo of Noelmi Hechabarria Menendez, MSSA, LISW-S, LICDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d10ba9d-61ae-42bb-a711-ef5930052eb3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Noelmi Hechabarria Menendez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
Northfield, OH 44067 (Online Only)
I have often explained the following analogy to motivate my patients to thrive: Replenish Your Well. The well water represents your resiliency; your ability to manage and respond appropriately to your environmental stressors. The bucket represents environmental and/or life stressors. Life is going to take buckets of water out of your well. Many people experience numerous life stressors, such as, financial problems, interpersonal relationship stressors, anxiety, depression, mood instability, etc.
I have often explained the following analogy to motivate my patients to thrive: Replenish Your Well. The well water represents your resiliency; your ability to manage and respond appropriately to your environmental stressors. The bucket represents environmental and/or life stressors. Life is going to take buckets of water out of your well. Many people experience numerous life stressors, such as, financial problems, interpersonal relationship stressors, anxiety, depression, mood instability, etc.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Casey Elliott, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8869bed1-37c1-4182-83c8-3f817cdbbdc4/1/320x400.png)
Hi, welcome! I am so happy you’re here! My name is Casey, and I am a Licensed Social Worker. I have worked with a variety of populations throughout my career. I started off working with teens and adolescents who struggled with behavioral issues at home and in the school setting. I have since ventured into working with adults and older adults who suffer from chronic illnesses. Whether you suffer from a chronic illness, chronic pain, have dealt with depression and anxiety, or you just feel like life could be better I want to assist you in developing healthy coping skills in order to improve your quality of life.
Hi, welcome! I am so happy you’re here! My name is Casey, and I am a Licensed Social Worker. I have worked with a variety of populations throughout my career. I started off working with teens and adolescents who struggled with behavioral issues at home and in the school setting. I have since ventured into working with adults and older adults who suffer from chronic illnesses. Whether you suffer from a chronic illness, chronic pain, have dealt with depression and anxiety, or you just feel like life could be better I want to assist you in developing healthy coping skills in order to improve your quality of life.
![Photo of Tessa Basco, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abd56a32-734e-46cf-a71b-e24ba58662a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Rosanna O Zavarella, PhD, BCC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf93fe5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
I believe we have the innate ability to heal ourselves, whether the issue is fear, anxiety, relationship difficulties, communication problems, chronic illness, or even a major life transition. Whether it is emotional / psychological / relationship, I view these as a call for change, growth and development. My approach with my clients is through a partnership and collaboration that fosters a healing journey, new skills, and a plan for wellness and self development. As a life coach, my specialty areas are: individuals experiencing major life transitions, promoting health and wellness, and recovery from childhood trauma.
I believe we have the innate ability to heal ourselves, whether the issue is fear, anxiety, relationship difficulties, communication problems, chronic illness, or even a major life transition. Whether it is emotional / psychological / relationship, I view these as a call for change, growth and development. My approach with my clients is through a partnership and collaboration that fosters a healing journey, new skills, and a plan for wellness and self development. As a life coach, my specialty areas are: individuals experiencing major life transitions, promoting health and wellness, and recovery from childhood trauma.
![Photo of Melissa Seeley, MSSA, LISW, SAP, CFRC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/443d8563-2e9a-4024-9fcd-3e1db849e9d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Seeley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW, SAP, CFRC
Verified Verified
Richfield, OH 44286
My time spent in healthcare allowed me to serve clients dealing with trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness, mental health issues, and adjustment issues.
Many people come to a counselor not knowing what to expect. The hardest part about coming to counseling is being willing to open up to an outside person about your most significant struggles and stressors in life. Opening up to a counselor means getting unbiased support and feedback to empower you to make the best decisions for yourself and/or your family. I aim to foster your healing, grow your self-confidence, and improve your self-image.
My time spent in healthcare allowed me to serve clients dealing with trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness, mental health issues, and adjustment issues.
Many people come to a counselor not knowing what to expect. The hardest part about coming to counseling is being willing to open up to an outside person about your most significant struggles and stressors in life. Opening up to a counselor means getting unbiased support and feedback to empower you to make the best decisions for yourself and/or your family. I aim to foster your healing, grow your self-confidence, and improve your self-image.
![Photo of Faith Payton, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8ffa7d0-3843-444e-9332-76bc0d24429d/1/320x400.png)
Also, navigating the complexities of personality disorders, ADHD, grief, chronic illness, sleep/insomnia issues and the challenges of pregnancy are areas where I offer targeted support and provide a safe space for exploration and understanding.
My professional journey has been shaped by a commitment to providing compassionate support and understanding to individuals on their path to mental well-being. Within the realm of counseling, I specialize in various areas, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), LGBTQIA+ affirmative counseling, ADHD, substance abuse, personality disorders, grief, chronic illness, pregnancy, prenatal and postpartum care, sleep/insomnia management, trauma, and PTSD.
Also, navigating the complexities of personality disorders, ADHD, grief, chronic illness, sleep/insomnia issues and the challenges of pregnancy are areas where I offer targeted support and provide a safe space for exploration and understanding.
My professional journey has been shaped by a commitment to providing compassionate support and understanding to individuals on their path to mental well-being. Within the realm of counseling, I specialize in various areas, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), LGBTQIA+ affirmative counseling, ADHD, substance abuse, personality disorders, grief, chronic illness, pregnancy, prenatal and postpartum care, sleep/insomnia management, trauma, and PTSD.
![Photo of Juliane Belisle, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17fbf6d2-89de-4552-8861-b22bf72c86a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Juliane specializes in treating issues such as trauma, coping with terminal and long term illness, compassion fatigue/burnout, anxiety, depression, end of life issues, and grief/ bereavement.
Juliane has a master’s degree from University of Kentucky and is a supervising licensed independent social worker with 25 years of experience. She has experience working with individuals, families and couples ranging from age 5 to 99 in a variety of settings including hospitals, schools, homes, residential treatment facilities, outpatient community mental health and adolescent detention centers. Most recently Juliane has worked with people coping with major illness (particularly cancer).
Juliane specializes in treating issues such as trauma, coping with terminal and long term illness, compassion fatigue/burnout, anxiety, depression, end of life issues, and grief/ bereavement.
Juliane has a master’s degree from University of Kentucky and is a supervising licensed independent social worker with 25 years of experience. She has experience working with individuals, families and couples ranging from age 5 to 99 in a variety of settings including hospitals, schools, homes, residential treatment facilities, outpatient community mental health and adolescent detention centers. Most recently Juliane has worked with people coping with major illness (particularly cancer).
![Photo of Derek Stegner, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7541804b-64e4-4c71-848f-cfaabd0828c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Gail Papay, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b4d28f2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I focus on concerns relative to grief, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, stress tolerance, chronic pain management, difficult relationships, self-esteem, parenting challenges, concerns of the aging, military issues, and trauma.
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I am committed to providing a safe environment where self-exploration and insight are achieved, to offering the support and empathy necessary for clients to resolve their own problems, and to enabling clients to empower themselves with confidence to reach their own self-defined goals and potentials.
I focus on concerns relative to grief, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, stress tolerance, chronic pain management, difficult relationships, self-esteem, parenting challenges, concerns of the aging, military issues, and trauma.
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I am committed to providing a safe environment where self-exploration and insight are achieved, to offering the support and empathy necessary for clients to resolve their own problems, and to enabling clients to empower themselves with confidence to reach their own self-defined goals and potentials.
![Photo of Yael Y Greenberg, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cad342ce-421c-45fd-b5ff-b1c1689ab551/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yael Y Greenberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Solon, OH 44139
Waitlist for new clients
I work with my clients to provide relief from emotional pain and to address their struggles in life. The goal is to increase self-awareness and to provide tools for better coping and functioning. I believe that every individual has the capacity to heal and to increase their sense of balance and well-being. I find that people who choose to engage in the process of psychotherapy can achieve a richer, more meaningful and more productive life. I work with people who struggle with different life challenges including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, life transitions, loss and bereavement, trauma and relationship difficulties.
I work with my clients to provide relief from emotional pain and to address their struggles in life. The goal is to increase self-awareness and to provide tools for better coping and functioning. I believe that every individual has the capacity to heal and to increase their sense of balance and well-being. I find that people who choose to engage in the process of psychotherapy can achieve a richer, more meaningful and more productive life. I work with people who struggle with different life challenges including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, life transitions, loss and bereavement, trauma and relationship difficulties.
![Photo of Gail A Papay - LifeTime Impact Counseling: Gail Papay, MEd, LPCC, MEd, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44b2165f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
LifeTime Impact Counseling: Gail Papay, MEd, LPCC
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Solon, OH 44139
I focus on concerns relative to grief, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, stress tolerance, chronic pain management, difficult relationships, self-esteem, parenting challenges, concerns of the aging, military issues, and trauma for which desensitization techniques are applied.
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I am committed to providing a safe environment where self-exploration and insight is achieved; to offering the support and empathy necessary for clients to resolve their own problems; to enabling clients to empower themselves with confidence to reach their own self-defined goals and potentials.
I focus on concerns relative to grief, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, stress tolerance, chronic pain management, difficult relationships, self-esteem, parenting challenges, concerns of the aging, military issues, and trauma for which desensitization techniques are applied.
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I am committed to providing a safe environment where self-exploration and insight is achieved; to offering the support and empathy necessary for clients to resolve their own problems; to enabling clients to empower themselves with confidence to reach their own self-defined goals and potentials.
![Photo of Samina Ahmed Jauregui, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aec44418-1331-4f9e-b2db-7af4b6384a91/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deciding to start therapy and finding a therapist is a difficult process and the current demand is only complicating matters. If you feel overwhelmed, low or unmotivated, and struggling to manage your worries than I may be able to help. Chronic illness management, sleep/insomnia, life transition, or major life stressors (e.g., navigating conflicting cultures) are common treatment concerns for my clients. If these concerns are keeping you stuck, isolated, or unsatisfied with life then it is time to make changes. Whether you know exactly what you want but unsure of how to achieve it or just contemplating change you can find support!
Deciding to start therapy and finding a therapist is a difficult process and the current demand is only complicating matters. If you feel overwhelmed, low or unmotivated, and struggling to manage your worries than I may be able to help. Chronic illness management, sleep/insomnia, life transition, or major life stressors (e.g., navigating conflicting cultures) are common treatment concerns for my clients. If these concerns are keeping you stuck, isolated, or unsatisfied with life then it is time to make changes. Whether you know exactly what you want but unsure of how to achieve it or just contemplating change you can find support!
![Photo of Veronica A Bojerski, MA, LPCC-S, CHT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/365d4bc8-2deb-4a92-be7c-75015fb1a64d/2/320x400.jpeg)
In Person or Secure Video Sessions. Are you or a family member stressed or overwhelmed from the pressures of life's FAST pace & uncertainty? Has your college student had behavior or mood changes? Any intense fears or chronic worry? Perfectionism? Unresolved trauma? Questioning ADHD symptoms? Maybe you are struggling with health, chronic pain or relationships? There many different reasons that a person may reach out to a counselor and you may just not know where to begin. My aim is to help you sort through your concerns and to come up with a collaborative plan that puts you on a path of self discovery, finding solutions and .
In Person or Secure Video Sessions. Are you or a family member stressed or overwhelmed from the pressures of life's FAST pace & uncertainty? Has your college student had behavior or mood changes? Any intense fears or chronic worry? Perfectionism? Unresolved trauma? Questioning ADHD symptoms? Maybe you are struggling with health, chronic pain or relationships? There many different reasons that a person may reach out to a counselor and you may just not know where to begin. My aim is to help you sort through your concerns and to come up with a collaborative plan that puts you on a path of self discovery, finding solutions and .
![Photo of Beth M Shapiro, PhD, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ecf6b90-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beth M Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
I have special interest in working with clients/families dealing with issues such as: trauma, adjustment to illness; end-of-life; anticipatory, disenfranchised & general grief/loss; pet loss; caregiver stress & fatigue; relationships; adjustment & mood disorders; adoption; LGBTQ+ issues & life transitions.
I am a licensed independent social worker with a PhD in psychology (academic degree). My humanistic approach engages clients in active collaboration on the content/direction of therapy. I strive to make the therapeutic space & time warm, welcoming, & safe, to provide clients the ability to focus on problems. I have extensive experience working within healthcare & hospice environments, & have a strong understanding of medical issues. I utilize strengths-based approaches in counseling individuals, couples, & families. Techniques are based on therapies including; EMDR, mindfulness, acceptance, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, narrative, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, & client-centered therapy. My dissertation focused on existential suffering at end of life.
I have special interest in working with clients/families dealing with issues such as: trauma, adjustment to illness; end-of-life; anticipatory, disenfranchised & general grief/loss; pet loss; caregiver stress & fatigue; relationships; adjustment & mood disorders; adoption; LGBTQ+ issues & life transitions.
I am a licensed independent social worker with a PhD in psychology (academic degree). My humanistic approach engages clients in active collaboration on the content/direction of therapy. I strive to make the therapeutic space & time warm, welcoming, & safe, to provide clients the ability to focus on problems. I have extensive experience working within healthcare & hospice environments, & have a strong understanding of medical issues. I utilize strengths-based approaches in counseling individuals, couples, & families. Techniques are based on therapies including; EMDR, mindfulness, acceptance, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, narrative, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, & client-centered therapy. My dissertation focused on existential suffering at end of life.
![Photo of Jennifer C. Anderson, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c94e479-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
My practice is dedicated to helping children, teens, and young adults live satisfying lives, maximizing their successful functioning at home, school, and in their relationships. I diagnose and treat a wide range of emotional and behavioral concerns. I also have specialized expertise in the treatment of adjustment and coping challenges that can accompany medical illness and in evaluation of learning challenges, attention problems, and giftedness. I offer a full range of services, including consultation/evaluation, treatment, and educational/psychological assessment. My face-to-face testing feedback and comprehensive reports provide specific recommendations tailored to the needs of the student.
My practice is dedicated to helping children, teens, and young adults live satisfying lives, maximizing their successful functioning at home, school, and in their relationships. I diagnose and treat a wide range of emotional and behavioral concerns. I also have specialized expertise in the treatment of adjustment and coping challenges that can accompany medical illness and in evaluation of learning challenges, attention problems, and giftedness. I offer a full range of services, including consultation/evaluation, treatment, and educational/psychological assessment. My face-to-face testing feedback and comprehensive reports provide specific recommendations tailored to the needs of the student.
![Photo of Jonathan D Gordon, PhD, JD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45388fa6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed Psychologist (OH, NJ, NY) with over 35 years clinical experience. I am also a licensed/admitted attorney in OH, NJ and in NY. I have a special interest in forensic child custody and parenting time/best interests of the child evaluations. I also perform forensic evaluations and treatment related to Worker's Compensation claims in Ohio. I completed the required 40-hour pre-appointment course for custody evaluators in Ohio.
I am a licensed Psychologist (OH, NJ, NY) with over 35 years clinical experience. I am also a licensed/admitted attorney in OH, NJ and in NY. I have a special interest in forensic child custody and parenting time/best interests of the child evaluations. I also perform forensic evaluations and treatment related to Worker's Compensation claims in Ohio. I completed the required 40-hour pre-appointment course for custody evaluators in Ohio.
![Photo of Roseann D'Agati, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aaf48eb6-546a-43b8-84d9-1feb2f0b050c/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
See more therapy options for Northfield
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Northfield
- Aurora
- Beachwood
- Brecksville
- Chagrin Falls
- Cleveland
- Hudson
- Independence
- Macedonia
- Parma
- Shaker Heights
- Solon
- Stow
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.