Photo of Yael Y Greenberg, PsyD, Psychologist
Yael Y Greenberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Shaker Heights, OH 44118
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.
(216) 220-8137 View (216) 220-8137
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
Shaker Heights, OH 44120
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 Beth M Shapiro, PhD, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth M Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shaker Heights, OH 44120
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.
(440) 210-0430 View (440) 210-0430
Photo of Yael Farkas (Vineburg), MA, LPCC
Yael Farkas (Vineburg)
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shaker Heights, OH 44120
I have extensive clinical experience with survivors of abuse & trauma, individuals with Eating Disorders, Chronic Pain, Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, and Anxiety related disorders.
I believe anyone brave enough to seek out therapy is motivated to make a change in how they cope, experience, and take charge of all that life throws at them. As a mental health counselor, I am here to walk with and encourage you as you empower yourself to continue to live a life of meaning and purpose. I will help you identify and work with your strengths, values, and goals, no matter what baggage and background seems to weigh you down.
I have extensive clinical experience with survivors of abuse & trauma, individuals with Eating Disorders, Chronic Pain, Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, and Anxiety related disorders.
I believe anyone brave enough to seek out therapy is motivated to make a change in how they cope, experience, and take charge of all that life throws at them. As a mental health counselor, I am here to walk with and encourage you as you empower yourself to continue to live a life of meaning and purpose. I will help you identify and work with your strengths, values, and goals, no matter what baggage and background seems to weigh you down.
(440) 379-8594 View (440) 379-8594
Photo of Mark Lovinger, PhD, Psychologist
Mark Lovinger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shaker Heights, OH 44118
In my 30 years of experience as a child and adult clinical psychologist, I have developed a diverse set of assessment and therapeutic skills, allowing me to provide optimal care to children, adults and families. I am a member of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC), and my specialties include helping families going through the difficulties of divorce, parent coordination, preserving a cooperative and collaborative environment to keep the children's best interests a priority, and conducting court-ordered custody evaluations. Attorneys and courts frequently request these services in order to help resolve child custody and parenting disputes.
In my 30 years of experience as a child and adult clinical psychologist, I have developed a diverse set of assessment and therapeutic skills, allowing me to provide optimal care to children, adults and families. I am a member of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC), and my specialties include helping families going through the difficulties of divorce, parent coordination, preserving a cooperative and collaborative environment to keep the children's best interests a priority, and conducting court-ordered custody evaluations. Attorneys and courts frequently request these services in order to help resolve child custody and parenting disputes.
(216) 584-9839 View (216) 584-9839
Photo of Elizabeth Rodems, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Rodems
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44122  (Online Only)
You may feel like you are just going through the motions of life. You may have trouble relaxing and you are not sleeping well because your mind just won’t stop. Maybe you are replaying scenarios from the past or worrying about what might go wrong in the future. You might feel angry or irritable. You struggle to connect with other people. You can show compassion to everyone else except yourself. You wonder whether you are good enough.
You may feel like you are just going through the motions of life. You may have trouble relaxing and you are not sleeping well because your mind just won’t stop. Maybe you are replaying scenarios from the past or worrying about what might go wrong in the future. You might feel angry or irritable. You struggle to connect with other people. You can show compassion to everyone else except yourself. You wonder whether you are good enough.
(734) 294-0938 View (734) 294-0938

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Faith Payton, LPC, Counselor
Faith Payton
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118  (Online Only)
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.
(216) 510-9149 View (216) 510-9149
Photo of Dr. Teresa Young - Generations Psychological & Consultation Services , PhD, Psychologist
Generations Psychological & Consultation Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44195  (Online Only)
I will help you examine personal, familial, and socio-cultural dynamics impacting your adjustment to aging, chronic illness, acquired disability, and care-giving.
Are you struggling to do things you enjoy as you age? Are you overwhelmed caring for someone with a severe disability or dementia? Are you having a hard time adjusting to a chronic illness? There's support out there just for you. For your convenience, I offer telehealth sessions in Florida, Iowa, and I'm PsyPact certified.
I will help you examine personal, familial, and socio-cultural dynamics impacting your adjustment to aging, chronic illness, acquired disability, and care-giving.
Are you struggling to do things you enjoy as you age? Are you overwhelmed caring for someone with a severe disability or dementia? Are you having a hard time adjusting to a chronic illness? There's support out there just for you. For your convenience, I offer telehealth sessions in Florida, Iowa, and I'm PsyPact certified.
(904) 830-6570 View (904) 830-6570
Photo of Dawn M Studniarz, LPC Intern
Dawn M Studniarz
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131  (Online Only)
My desire is to help & inspire, make a difference, & use evidence-based mental health practices to witness growth & progress in everyone. With a strong ethical & moral foundation, I work within my boundaries to provide the utmost care to those I serve. I have an innate ability to connect with others & welcome you to a comfortable, warm, & non-judgmental environment. I consider myself an integrative therapist, tailoring a wide variety of theories, approaches & modalities to meet your needs. My goal is to provide you with the necessary tools to make the hard work a little easier. It may not always be easy, but you will have a partner.
My desire is to help & inspire, make a difference, & use evidence-based mental health practices to witness growth & progress in everyone. With a strong ethical & moral foundation, I work within my boundaries to provide the utmost care to those I serve. I have an innate ability to connect with others & welcome you to a comfortable, warm, & non-judgmental environment. I consider myself an integrative therapist, tailoring a wide variety of theories, approaches & modalities to meet your needs. My goal is to provide you with the necessary tools to make the hard work a little easier. It may not always be easy, but you will have a partner.
(216) 242-1547 View (216) 242-1547
Photo of Pamela M. Nilsson, PhD, Psychologist
Pamela M. Nilsson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
The therapeutic relationship creates a unique space for patient and therapist to explore and uncover new possibilities for growth and change in areas that are of importance to the patient. I work collaboratively with patients to dislodge and free up deeply-embedded patterns of behavior and ways of relating to others that can keep us stuck and prevent us from moving forward, from achieving important goals, and from developing satisfying relationships that are nurturing and sustaining. Relationships are central to my work with patients, whether working individually, in couples therapy, or in a group.
The therapeutic relationship creates a unique space for patient and therapist to explore and uncover new possibilities for growth and change in areas that are of importance to the patient. I work collaboratively with patients to dislodge and free up deeply-embedded patterns of behavior and ways of relating to others that can keep us stuck and prevent us from moving forward, from achieving important goals, and from developing satisfying relationships that are nurturing and sustaining. Relationships are central to my work with patients, whether working individually, in couples therapy, or in a group.
(216) 303-6526 View (216) 303-6526
Photo of Karal H Stern, LISW-S, LICDCCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karal H Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LICDCCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
A major challenge for many individuals, couples, and families is creating and sustaining meaningful connections. Feeling connected to loved ones and friends, purposeful work, or creative endeavors is not easy. Sometimes people do not feel connected to themselves and need support in understanding their feelings and behaviors. Likewise, there are times when disconnecting from toxic relationships and activities is necessary and requires strategies and skills that are not easily acquired or encouraged by others. Stressful life transitions, traumatic events, addictive behaviors, and painful losses are concerns for many of my clients.
A major challenge for many individuals, couples, and families is creating and sustaining meaningful connections. Feeling connected to loved ones and friends, purposeful work, or creative endeavors is not easy. Sometimes people do not feel connected to themselves and need support in understanding their feelings and behaviors. Likewise, there are times when disconnecting from toxic relationships and activities is necessary and requires strategies and skills that are not easily acquired or encouraged by others. Stressful life transitions, traumatic events, addictive behaviors, and painful losses are concerns for many of my clients.
(440) 434-3640 x170 View (440) 434-3640 x170
Photo of Eric M Kortanek, PsyD, Psychologist
Eric M Kortanek
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
I believe that people are curious and usually strive to make sense of their internal selves and the world around them. In this process we are often guided, influenced, and diverted by various factors. These factors are endless and include, but are not limited to; experiences, parents, society, friends, work, and morals. While these variables can help us to grow, they may also hinder progress, leading to stagnation and dysfunction. I assist others to gain awareness of these factors either within or outside the self.
I believe that people are curious and usually strive to make sense of their internal selves and the world around them. In this process we are often guided, influenced, and diverted by various factors. These factors are endless and include, but are not limited to; experiences, parents, society, friends, work, and morals. While these variables can help us to grow, they may also hinder progress, leading to stagnation and dysfunction. I assist others to gain awareness of these factors either within or outside the self.
(216) 925-5189 View (216) 925-5189
Photo of Jennifer R Brumfield, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC-S, ICADC, SAP, Counselor
Jennifer R Brumfield
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC-S, ICADC, SAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44106  (Online Only)
I have been an active member of my community for most of my life. I began caring for others at age 15 by working as a nursing assistant in a local nursing home. I have volunteered as an Emergency Medical Technician and was a foster parent for nearly 100 children over a 13 year time span. I am passionate about helping people of all ages reach their personal or professional goals. I specialize in EMDR however; I utilize many types of therapy that is tailored to each individual client.Please make an appointment so we can discuss how I can help you and your family.
I have been an active member of my community for most of my life. I began caring for others at age 15 by working as a nursing assistant in a local nursing home. I have volunteered as an Emergency Medical Technician and was a foster parent for nearly 100 children over a 13 year time span. I am passionate about helping people of all ages reach their personal or professional goals. I specialize in EMDR however; I utilize many types of therapy that is tailored to each individual client.Please make an appointment so we can discuss how I can help you and your family.
(330) 400-3402 View (330) 400-3402
Photo of Lisa Kapp, LPCC, Counselor
Lisa Kapp
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
A licensed clinical counselor for 20+ years, I create an accepting welcoming safe environment for you to explore your needs and work through challenges related to life transition, loss, grief and trauma. LGBTIA+ affirming and culturally aware, I use Cognitive Behavioral, Humanistic and Psychodynamic approaches to therapy and have been trained in DBT and EMDR. I have assisted patients with all depressive and anxiety diagnoses and employ Exposure Response Prevention for those with OCD issues. You are the expert on yourself and your needs, so I join with you to create your individualized journey of self-discovery and healing.
A licensed clinical counselor for 20+ years, I create an accepting welcoming safe environment for you to explore your needs and work through challenges related to life transition, loss, grief and trauma. LGBTIA+ affirming and culturally aware, I use Cognitive Behavioral, Humanistic and Psychodynamic approaches to therapy and have been trained in DBT and EMDR. I have assisted patients with all depressive and anxiety diagnoses and employ Exposure Response Prevention for those with OCD issues. You are the expert on yourself and your needs, so I join with you to create your individualized journey of self-discovery and healing.
(216) 284-6569 View (216) 284-6569
Photo of Lauren Kustec, LPCC
Lauren Kustec
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Solon, OH 44139
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 Laura Burns, PhD, PCC-S, Psychologist
Laura Burns
Psychologist, PhD, PCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
When people reach out for help in dealing with life stressors, I respond in a timely, compassionate, respectful manner and seek to form a therapeutic relationship built on acceptance and trust. I help patients to find new ways to use their existing strengths in areas they find stressful and difficult. I seek out and harness their motivation to change and to enhance coping skills to effectively manage ongoing difficulties and to construct a life worth living. Therapy is a partnership that assists in functioning effectively in the present.
When people reach out for help in dealing with life stressors, I respond in a timely, compassionate, respectful manner and seek to form a therapeutic relationship built on acceptance and trust. I help patients to find new ways to use their existing strengths in areas they find stressful and difficult. I seek out and harness their motivation to change and to enhance coping skills to effectively manage ongoing difficulties and to construct a life worth living. Therapy is a partnership that assists in functioning effectively in the present.
(440) 544-5040 View (440) 544-5040
Photo of Roseann D Harper - The Phoenix Counseling Center, LPCC
The Phoenix Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44122  (Online Only)
I believe that counseling is an opportunity to connect with people in a safe and non-judgmental space. Many people struggle with anxiety, depression, mood swings, relationship issues, grief and loss and want to improve mental health towards psych stability. It is an honor for me to be with you on this journey through life. Along that journey I am excited to teach you coping skills as I learn about the battles you face. We are in this together.
I believe that counseling is an opportunity to connect with people in a safe and non-judgmental space. Many people struggle with anxiety, depression, mood swings, relationship issues, grief and loss and want to improve mental health towards psych stability. It is an honor for me to be with you on this journey through life. Along that journey I am excited to teach you coping skills as I learn about the battles you face. We are in this together.
(440) 732-5252 View (440) 732-5252
Photo of Melissa Harris, MA, LPC, AT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, AT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
Eclectic approaches are an effective way to tailor a productive therapeutic relationship. I'm interested in combining the strengths of various counseling modalities, with the strengths and interests of my clients. We can use your love of baking, rock collecting or even bird watching as a tool in your journey towards positive change! Together we will work to create a path that fosters strength, stability and a sound sense of self.
Eclectic approaches are an effective way to tailor a productive therapeutic relationship. I'm interested in combining the strengths of various counseling modalities, with the strengths and interests of my clients. We can use your love of baking, rock collecting or even bird watching as a tool in your journey towards positive change! Together we will work to create a path that fosters strength, stability and a sound sense of self.
(216) 242-1696 View (216) 242-1696
Photo of Diana Marquez Lyons - Diana Marquez Lyons LISW, LCSW, ACMHP, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Marquez Lyons LISW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACMHP, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
"Being happy is of the utmost importance. Success in anything is through happiness." My treatment approach is holistic, encompassing the mind, body and spirit connection and traditional therapeutic orientation. Recognizing that each person is unique, I utilize a client centered and a humanistic approach. Providing a safe, respectful, compassionate, supportive and confidential environment is vital to the process of healing and empowering the individual. I have expertise in treating Grief and Loss, Death and Dying, Divorce and Separation, Addiction and Recovery, Sexual Abuse, Depression, Anxiety and Parenting.
"Being happy is of the utmost importance. Success in anything is through happiness." My treatment approach is holistic, encompassing the mind, body and spirit connection and traditional therapeutic orientation. Recognizing that each person is unique, I utilize a client centered and a humanistic approach. Providing a safe, respectful, compassionate, supportive and confidential environment is vital to the process of healing and empowering the individual. I have expertise in treating Grief and Loss, Death and Dying, Divorce and Separation, Addiction and Recovery, Sexual Abuse, Depression, Anxiety and Parenting.
(203) 490-0008 View (203) 490-0008
Photo of Roseann D'Agati, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roseann D'Agati
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Solon, OH 44139
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

See more therapy options for Shaker Heights

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.