Chronic Pain Therapists in Coopersburg, PA
![Photo of Sarah Rentz, MA, MAT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dce9215b-75b1-4b7d-83f2-a5f80dd7299c/1/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of specialization are trauma/PTSD, chronic illness, and various forms of anxiety, depression and grief.
As your therapist, I will help you gain insight and coping skills so that you can build resilience, self- trust and HOPE in the face of adversity. I know that life throws us curveballs, but I am here to walk along side of you as you move toward healing. Research tells us that trauma is held in the body as well as the mind. I will give you the knowledge you need to calm your nervous system and move toward a healthier and more peaceful life.
My areas of specialization are trauma/PTSD, chronic illness, and various forms of anxiety, depression and grief.
As your therapist, I will help you gain insight and coping skills so that you can build resilience, self- trust and HOPE in the face of adversity. I know that life throws us curveballs, but I am here to walk along side of you as you move toward healing. Research tells us that trauma is held in the body as well as the mind. I will give you the knowledge you need to calm your nervous system and move toward a healthier and more peaceful life.
![Photo of Christina S Buss - Christina Buss, MA, LPC, CADC, LLC, MA, LPC, CADC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5520219f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Buss, MA, LPC, CADC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC, LLC
Verified Verified
Coopersburg, PA 18036
Specializing in the treatment and recovery of Eating Disorders & Substance Abuse since 2000. I work in collaboration with a treatment team to treat the psychological, emotional, physical, social & spiritual realms of the individual. Treatment also consists of addressing co-occurring disorders/diagnosis including depression, anxiety, trauma, women's issues, Codependency, adjustment disorders, relationship & family struggles. I am an active, dedicated & passionate therapist who believes we are all wounded to varying degrees, but all deserve and have the basic human right of wellness and happiness.
Specializing in the treatment and recovery of Eating Disorders & Substance Abuse since 2000. I work in collaboration with a treatment team to treat the psychological, emotional, physical, social & spiritual realms of the individual. Treatment also consists of addressing co-occurring disorders/diagnosis including depression, anxiety, trauma, women's issues, Codependency, adjustment disorders, relationship & family struggles. I am an active, dedicated & passionate therapist who believes we are all wounded to varying degrees, but all deserve and have the basic human right of wellness and happiness.
![Photo of Korina Hasbrouck, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9901055f-7b5f-42c2-92ab-07ce2342c32c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Korina Hasbrouck is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2006. She has an Associate's Degree in Pre-Professional Psychology, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy. Korina is specifically trained and experienced to work with individuals, children, couples, and families who are having difficulties with their mental health and relationship issues. Outside of work, Korina enjoys spending time with her teenage daughter, watching movies and good television series with her family, and playing with her silly dogs, Mort and Giddy.
Korina Hasbrouck is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2006. She has an Associate's Degree in Pre-Professional Psychology, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy. Korina is specifically trained and experienced to work with individuals, children, couples, and families who are having difficulties with their mental health and relationship issues. Outside of work, Korina enjoys spending time with her teenage daughter, watching movies and good television series with her family, and playing with her silly dogs, Mort and Giddy.
![Photo of Coleen Lillie-Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a78992d-1bc9-40c3-b5ca-c61b1de65b87/1/320x400.png)
My work as a therapist with individuals and families is guided by two core values; people are the experts in their own lives and everyone has the capacity to be their best self. I use a strengths-based, holistic approach to therapy through a biopsychosocial and trauma-informed lens. Anxiety, depression, and developmental trauma can be stumbling blocks towards achieving one's goals and I am honored to be part of the recovery journey. Since there is no one right way to do therapy, collaboration is key for people to meet their goals.
My work as a therapist with individuals and families is guided by two core values; people are the experts in their own lives and everyone has the capacity to be their best self. I use a strengths-based, holistic approach to therapy through a biopsychosocial and trauma-informed lens. Anxiety, depression, and developmental trauma can be stumbling blocks towards achieving one's goals and I am honored to be part of the recovery journey. Since there is no one right way to do therapy, collaboration is key for people to meet their goals.
![Photo of Marghy Mitchell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adf5cf10-f65c-4d7e-a638-0a46e9c5eb40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marghy Mitchell is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2016. Marghy can connect with people of all ages and has an empathetic connection to help them discover their potential. Outside of work, Marghy enjoys kayaking, gardening, animals, nature, cooking, nutrition, and being an artist.
Marghy Mitchell is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2016. Marghy can connect with people of all ages and has an empathetic connection to help them discover their potential. Outside of work, Marghy enjoys kayaking, gardening, animals, nature, cooking, nutrition, and being an artist.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Robin L Carosella - Robin L. Carosella, Psy.D, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf96121-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating symptoms of depression, anxiety, co-occurring physical diseases (such as pain) and couples therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing in evidenced-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy (IBCT). I believe the overarching goal of therapy is to identify potential behaviors and ways of thinking that affect your current way of being. I have an active approach to therapy with the end result being a change in behaviors and thoughts aimed at leaving you with a new perspective. Clients present to treatment for diverse reasons and each client is unique. Therefore, my treatment approach is collaborative, client centered and focused on the whole person.
I specialize in treating symptoms of depression, anxiety, co-occurring physical diseases (such as pain) and couples therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing in evidenced-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy (IBCT). I believe the overarching goal of therapy is to identify potential behaviors and ways of thinking that affect your current way of being. I have an active approach to therapy with the end result being a change in behaviors and thoughts aimed at leaving you with a new perspective. Clients present to treatment for diverse reasons and each client is unique. Therefore, my treatment approach is collaborative, client centered and focused on the whole person.
![Photo of Alexandra Milspaw - Alexandra Milspaw, Ph.D., LLC, PhD, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a1e38c0-f9f6-4545-bec4-72be81192038/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Milspaw, Ph.D., LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Macungie, PA 18062
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist specializing in anxiety, trauma, sexuality, and chronic pain issues. I utilize Mindfulness, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, and Hypnosis techniques in my strength-based approach. I have a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology from Lehigh University and a PhD in Human Sexuality from Widener University. Please visit my website for more information: www.dralexmilspaw.com
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist specializing in anxiety, trauma, sexuality, and chronic pain issues. I utilize Mindfulness, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, and Hypnosis techniques in my strength-based approach. I have a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology from Lehigh University and a PhD in Human Sexuality from Widener University. Please visit my website for more information: www.dralexmilspaw.com
![Photo of Gail-Elaine Tinker, MS, RM, CH, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d6cc37a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gail-Elaine Tinker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, RM, CH, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Psychotherapy, Talk Therapy for Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia, and Anger; SPECIALTIES in Trauma, Chronic Pain, and Grief.
Are you feeling 'stuck' or frustrated? There are many reasons for interest in Psychotherapy. The design of your positive wellness path is done together, as your needs are unique. State-of-the-Art plus Tried-and-True methods are employed. You are given tools to feel confident and serene on your own, as we see a 'well' client is a success ! My office is warm, professional, confidential, & convenient. The business takes many insurances, cash, checks, & credit cards. Free phone consultation is available 9a-7p at 610-216-4319 voicemail is always confidential. Also contact via email-ge@tinkerpsychotherapy.com .
Psychotherapy, Talk Therapy for Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia, and Anger; SPECIALTIES in Trauma, Chronic Pain, and Grief.
Are you feeling 'stuck' or frustrated? There are many reasons for interest in Psychotherapy. The design of your positive wellness path is done together, as your needs are unique. State-of-the-Art plus Tried-and-True methods are employed. You are given tools to feel confident and serene on your own, as we see a 'well' client is a success ! My office is warm, professional, confidential, & convenient. The business takes many insurances, cash, checks, & credit cards. Free phone consultation is available 9a-7p at 610-216-4319 voicemail is always confidential. Also contact via email-ge@tinkerpsychotherapy.com .
![Photo of Rebekah Coval, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63e7cf29-822a-4105-9f02-44c046184a39/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! I am a licensed individual and couples therapist, certified yoga instructor, and birth doula. I am trained in both movement therapy and EMDR. My areas of expertise include anxiety, relationships and couples counseling, grief, trauma, chronic illness/pain, and spirituality. I offer couples counseling for clients wanting to improve their relationship as well as those discerning separation. I have a special interest in clients who are in a season of transition or decision-making, whether related to college, parenthood, new relationship/career, or navigating the last stage of life.
Hi there! I am a licensed individual and couples therapist, certified yoga instructor, and birth doula. I am trained in both movement therapy and EMDR. My areas of expertise include anxiety, relationships and couples counseling, grief, trauma, chronic illness/pain, and spirituality. I offer couples counseling for clients wanting to improve their relationship as well as those discerning separation. I have a special interest in clients who are in a season of transition or decision-making, whether related to college, parenthood, new relationship/career, or navigating the last stage of life.
![Photo of Marifel Estrada-Currie, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e360c776-273a-41bc-b8b5-c79bb5457593/2/320x400.png)
e depression and anxiety), OCD, eating disorders, managing adjustments to disabilities and ongoing medical diagnoses/chronic pain through the use of effective psychotherapeutic interventions.
As individuals we are continually faced with life events that at times can be challenging, stressful and overwhelming and can impact our emotional and physical well being and relationships. It is at these times that we strive to find emotional and mental relief, balance and connection. As a licensed psychologist, I strive to help clients find positive coping skills to help them through events negatively impacting their present lives. I will strive to provide an empathetic therapeutic environment in a collaborative dialogue between me, the clinician, and you, the client to find emotional relief, calm, and interpersonal growth.
e depression and anxiety), OCD, eating disorders, managing adjustments to disabilities and ongoing medical diagnoses/chronic pain through the use of effective psychotherapeutic interventions.
As individuals we are continually faced with life events that at times can be challenging, stressful and overwhelming and can impact our emotional and physical well being and relationships. It is at these times that we strive to find emotional and mental relief, balance and connection. As a licensed psychologist, I strive to help clients find positive coping skills to help them through events negatively impacting their present lives. I will strive to provide an empathetic therapeutic environment in a collaborative dialogue between me, the clinician, and you, the client to find emotional relief, calm, and interpersonal growth.
![Photo of Jolene Batarick, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5163c520-0ff5-4b14-9ee2-3cb3190f1c4f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jolene Batarick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18018
I specialize in treating eating disorders, trauma and ptsd, grief and loss, chronic pain and substance use issues. I am certified in intuitive therapy for eating disorders and am a certified trauma therapist. I strive to create a safe and nurturing atmosphere in which individuals can express themselves. I believe that compassion, empathy and patience are needed with all patients. I draw on mindfulness, DBT and CBT techniques. I also incorporate play, art and music therapy when appropriate. Each treatment is tailored to each client, so I focus on getting to know you and how you want to live your life, and what is stopping you.
I specialize in treating eating disorders, trauma and ptsd, grief and loss, chronic pain and substance use issues. I am certified in intuitive therapy for eating disorders and am a certified trauma therapist. I strive to create a safe and nurturing atmosphere in which individuals can express themselves. I believe that compassion, empathy and patience are needed with all patients. I draw on mindfulness, DBT and CBT techniques. I also incorporate play, art and music therapy when appropriate. Each treatment is tailored to each client, so I focus on getting to know you and how you want to live your life, and what is stopping you.
![Photo of Wester Messina, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f45b145-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Pain and loss are unavoidable.
Are your struggling with debilitating symptoms of anxiety or depression? Perhaps, you are one of the millions who just feels stuck, depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. Please know this: There is hope and you can move from suffering to engagement with life. In an accepting and compassionate manner, I will be sharing with you life-transforming skills. You will be able to approach your distress in a different way and begin to live the kind of life you truly want. Individual and couples counseling provided. Services offered in English or Spanish.
Pain and loss are unavoidable.
Are your struggling with debilitating symptoms of anxiety or depression? Perhaps, you are one of the millions who just feels stuck, depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. Please know this: There is hope and you can move from suffering to engagement with life. In an accepting and compassionate manner, I will be sharing with you life-transforming skills. You will be able to approach your distress in a different way and begin to live the kind of life you truly want. Individual and couples counseling provided. Services offered in English or Spanish.
![Photo of Hannah Gilmore, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7e99bd9-5e16-4e8c-8a29-2cbf29f765a3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you are coming to therapy for anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, a life change, or just a general sense of unease, facing these issues can be scary. Healing isn’t easy because it involves confronting our pain and hurts. Healing can also be full of joy, hope, connection, and freedom as we experience new possibilities of being and relating. My approach is warm, relational, and integrative. I strive to offer a space where you can feel safe enough to look inward – to gently and compassionately welcome all parts of yourself with less judgment and shame.
Whether you are coming to therapy for anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, a life change, or just a general sense of unease, facing these issues can be scary. Healing isn’t easy because it involves confronting our pain and hurts. Healing can also be full of joy, hope, connection, and freedom as we experience new possibilities of being and relating. My approach is warm, relational, and integrative. I strive to offer a space where you can feel safe enough to look inward – to gently and compassionately welcome all parts of yourself with less judgment and shame.
Bonita E Fisher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
brain injury, stroke), I am passionate about the oft-ignored aspects of living which contribute to true wellness (rather than mere lack of illness).
TELE-HEALTH (synchronous communication) is now my primary mode of operation. I invite you to my website: bonitafisherpsyd.com, for more information on my practice. Additionally, I bring to the table my training and experience in the field of neuropsychology, which considers the impact of neurological systems (brain, spine) and general health impact (physical/endocrine/immune function) on psychological issues.
brain injury, stroke), I am passionate about the oft-ignored aspects of living which contribute to true wellness (rather than mere lack of illness).
TELE-HEALTH (synchronous communication) is now my primary mode of operation. I invite you to my website: bonitafisherpsyd.com, for more information on my practice. Additionally, I bring to the table my training and experience in the field of neuropsychology, which considers the impact of neurological systems (brain, spine) and general health impact (physical/endocrine/immune function) on psychological issues.
![Photo of Sharon Kozuch, MEd, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1b64e17-45ec-43c8-aee7-4f9a6758ec5a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon Kozuch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hellertown, PA 18055
I listen and guide you on your journey of releasing your pain and struggles and experiencing healing, providing a deeper connection to yourself, a greater sense of calm, awareness, and focus.
You are seeking relief... from anxiety, life transitions, unresolved trauma, work or relationship struggles. My clients often come to me in distress, riddled with questions, searching for new approaches and coping skills. Perhaps you have tried different perspectives and some have worked but stresss and anxiety, doubt and questioning settle in again. Regardless of the reason, life brings with it obstacles and challenges that can feel like you are stuck.
I listen and guide you on your journey of releasing your pain and struggles and experiencing healing, providing a deeper connection to yourself, a greater sense of calm, awareness, and focus.
You are seeking relief... from anxiety, life transitions, unresolved trauma, work or relationship struggles. My clients often come to me in distress, riddled with questions, searching for new approaches and coping skills. Perhaps you have tried different perspectives and some have worked but stresss and anxiety, doubt and questioning settle in again. Regardless of the reason, life brings with it obstacles and challenges that can feel like you are stuck.
![Photo of Lauren Kuehlewind, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0893ca32-521b-471f-bfe5-eab96c56d3b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Kuehlewind
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Quakertown, PA 18951
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling to function due to high stress, anxiety, or unhealthy routines that you can’t seem to shake? Is your grief, sadness, or depression making everyday tasks difficult to get through? Are you having difficulty figuring out how to make sense of your suffering and pain, relationally, emotionally, or physically - even in light of your faith? These are troubling places to be in, and no one should have to walk these paths of pain alone. If you are finding yourself struggling in these ways, you need a safe place to talk about what got you to the place you are currently in and help you determine the best next steps forward.
Are you struggling to function due to high stress, anxiety, or unhealthy routines that you can’t seem to shake? Is your grief, sadness, or depression making everyday tasks difficult to get through? Are you having difficulty figuring out how to make sense of your suffering and pain, relationally, emotionally, or physically - even in light of your faith? These are troubling places to be in, and no one should have to walk these paths of pain alone. If you are finding yourself struggling in these ways, you need a safe place to talk about what got you to the place you are currently in and help you determine the best next steps forward.
![Photo of Hannah Gilmore, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d533dd73-5e49-4d42-9e11-2d6bcc831278/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you are coming to therapy for anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, a life change, or just a general sense of unease, facing these issues can be scary. Healing isn’t easy because it involves confronting our pain and hurts. Healing can also be full of joy, hope, connection, and freedom as we experience new possibilities of being and relating. My approach is warm, relational, and integrative. I strive to offer a space where you can feel safe enough to look inward – to gently and compassionately welcome all parts of yourself with less judgment and shame.
Whether you are coming to therapy for anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, a life change, or just a general sense of unease, facing these issues can be scary. Healing isn’t easy because it involves confronting our pain and hurts. Healing can also be full of joy, hope, connection, and freedom as we experience new possibilities of being and relating. My approach is warm, relational, and integrative. I strive to offer a space where you can feel safe enough to look inward – to gently and compassionately welcome all parts of yourself with less judgment and shame.
![Photo of Rachel Schwartz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4be5c5b-09d6-4734-a1c1-c3dac3da1cff/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client often begins therapy knowing something is off, uncomfortable, or painful but unsure where to go next. Sometimes, they aren't sure what is causing their distress and are looking for help to understand what happened that led them here. Other times, they are aware of what's causing their pain but are looking for an additional perspective as they begin to make changes. Their goals, on some level, are to find relief, understanding, or peace.
My ideal client often begins therapy knowing something is off, uncomfortable, or painful but unsure where to go next. Sometimes, they aren't sure what is causing their distress and are looking for help to understand what happened that led them here. Other times, they are aware of what's causing their pain but are looking for an additional perspective as they begin to make changes. Their goals, on some level, are to find relief, understanding, or peace.
![Photo of Brittany Shaffer, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21cdab5b-5d49-4baa-b5f5-8f77235e8053/2/320x400.png)
I specialize in working with clients who have experienced childhood trauma, domestic/intimate partner violence or relationship challenges, chronic pain/illness, and substance use issues. I also appreciate the beautiful tangents, metaphors, and insights from my work with neurodiverse clients. Much of my work focused on helping clients examine how trauma has shaped their lives, decisions, & current circumstances and find ways to heal. Finding meaning and insight from the connections and patterns we can see in the past and present is key to informing the work we can do together to pursue a more intentional and satisfying future.
I specialize in working with clients who have experienced childhood trauma, domestic/intimate partner violence or relationship challenges, chronic pain/illness, and substance use issues. I also appreciate the beautiful tangents, metaphors, and insights from my work with neurodiverse clients. Much of my work focused on helping clients examine how trauma has shaped their lives, decisions, & current circumstances and find ways to heal. Finding meaning and insight from the connections and patterns we can see in the past and present is key to informing the work we can do together to pursue a more intentional and satisfying future.
![Photo of Sara Edwards, MEd, LPC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e17a4cc-4bd1-4b75-846a-b9933f66ae19/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Hello! I'm looking forward to meeting you. I am a therapist specializing in working with sexuality topics. Maybe you are looking for a therapist for a sexuality concern, sex therapy, sexual pain, trauma, or for transgender-affirming care. Maybe you just want to see someone who "gets it" and will be affirming of everything that makes you uniquely you. Whatever the reason, I am excited to accompany you on this wellness journey you're taking! I bring great enthusiasm to my therapy and I am looking forward to helping you achieve your life's passions. My practice has immediate openings, & we can get started soon without the wait.
Hello! I'm looking forward to meeting you. I am a therapist specializing in working with sexuality topics. Maybe you are looking for a therapist for a sexuality concern, sex therapy, sexual pain, trauma, or for transgender-affirming care. Maybe you just want to see someone who "gets it" and will be affirming of everything that makes you uniquely you. Whatever the reason, I am excited to accompany you on this wellness journey you're taking! I bring great enthusiasm to my therapy and I am looking forward to helping you achieve your life's passions. My practice has immediate openings, & we can get started soon without the wait.
See more therapy options for Coopersburg
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Coopersburg
- Allentown
- Bethlehem
- Breinigsville
- Center Valley
- Easton
- Emmaus
- Hatfield
- Lehigh Valley
- Macungie
- Perkasie
- Quakertown
- Telford
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.