Chronic Pain Therapists in Gladwyne, PA

Photo of Christine McDevitt - Farfalla Integrative Health LLC, MS, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist
Farfalla Integrative Health LLC
Occupational Therapist, MS, OTR/L
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035  (Online Only)
Persistent symptoms may include pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression, brain fog, insomnia, body image concerns, & thoughts or memories that negatively affect your daily life.
I teach active adults with persistent symptoms how to function at their best so they finally start feeling like themselves again. My practice offers Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT tapping) and occupational therapy (OT) services which are not traditional talk therapy or counseling. EFT tapping is a mind-body method that helps change the way your nervous system responds to distressing thoughts, feelings, or body sensations. Using EFT, I help you change the way difficult memories & emotions affect how you think, act, or behave during the course of your day.
Persistent symptoms may include pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression, brain fog, insomnia, body image concerns, & thoughts or memories that negatively affect your daily life.
I teach active adults with persistent symptoms how to function at their best so they finally start feeling like themselves again. My practice offers Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT tapping) and occupational therapy (OT) services which are not traditional talk therapy or counseling. EFT tapping is a mind-body method that helps change the way your nervous system responds to distressing thoughts, feelings, or body sensations. Using EFT, I help you change the way difficult memories & emotions affect how you think, act, or behave during the course of your day.
(215) 774-6363 View (215) 774-6363
Photo of Raena - Bryn Mawr Mental Health And Wellness, MD
Bryn Mawr Mental Health And Wellness
MD
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035
It is our mission to promote holistic well-being and to empower individuals to flourish beyond the treatment of mental illness.
At Bryn Mawr Mental Health and Wellness, Dr. Raena Khorram, a Harvard trained psychiatrist and her team of expert therapists offers comprehensive psychiatric treatment. We use a combination of individual psychotherapy, EMDR, couples therapy and medication management to treat depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety, ADHD, eating and addiction disorders. We believe the combination of psychotherapy, or talk therapy, medication management and healthy lifestyle improvements is key in successful the treatment. We see patients in our office and remotely using a HIPAA compliant video platform.
It is our mission to promote holistic well-being and to empower individuals to flourish beyond the treatment of mental illness.
At Bryn Mawr Mental Health and Wellness, Dr. Raena Khorram, a Harvard trained psychiatrist and her team of expert therapists offers comprehensive psychiatric treatment. We use a combination of individual psychotherapy, EMDR, couples therapy and medication management to treat depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety, ADHD, eating and addiction disorders. We believe the combination of psychotherapy, or talk therapy, medication management and healthy lifestyle improvements is key in successful the treatment. We see patients in our office and remotely using a HIPAA compliant video platform.
(610) 549-4299 View (610) 549-4299
Photo of Eric B Spiegel, PhD, Psychologist
Eric B Spiegel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gladwyne, PA 19035
I am certified as an Approved Consultant in clinical hypnosis by the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH), and integrate hypnosis in working with anxiety, habit control, insomnia, pain, self-esteem, trauma, and other concerns.
I specialize in working with anxiety, relationship concerns, and trauma. With an expertise in clinical hypnosis, I will help you: (1) improve your reflective awareness of how your feelings and thoughts impact your well-being, relationships and behaviors and (2) enhance your coping and stress management skills to deal with your problems more effectively. As we build our therapeutic relationship, I will challenge you to observe yourself and reflect. Together, we will work collaboratively to facilitate positive change in your life and relationships. Enhancing your wellness is central to my work.
I am certified as an Approved Consultant in clinical hypnosis by the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH), and integrate hypnosis in working with anxiety, habit control, insomnia, pain, self-esteem, trauma, and other concerns.
I specialize in working with anxiety, relationship concerns, and trauma. With an expertise in clinical hypnosis, I will help you: (1) improve your reflective awareness of how your feelings and thoughts impact your well-being, relationships and behaviors and (2) enhance your coping and stress management skills to deal with your problems more effectively. As we build our therapeutic relationship, I will challenge you to observe yourself and reflect. Together, we will work collaboratively to facilitate positive change in your life and relationships. Enhancing your wellness is central to my work.
(215) 995-5035 View (215) 995-5035
Photo of Dena Solomon, PhD, MSS, Psychologist
Dena Solomon
Psychologist, PhD, MSS
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035
MLPS clients include individuals, couples, and older adolescents dealing with a range of difficulties including depression, anxiety and panic disorders, eating disorders, OCD, chronic illness, relationship problems, women's health issues, job and school stresses, adult adjustment to suspected or diagnosed learning differences, and life event stress.
Feel Better. Whether for depression, anxiety or relationship issues, the majority of the clients we see come to therapy with the goal of feeling better; happier, more connected to others, and free from the paralysis of emotional pain. Primarily psychodynamic and systems-oriented in approach, we look at how an issue experienced in the now came to be there, from early childhood experience to prior adult experiences, and how these all culminated in the present problem(s). We also utilize techniques to individually tailor treatment to the patient's needs, including cognitive/behavioral, problem-solving, and insight-oriented therapies, and often ..humor(!)
MLPS clients include individuals, couples, and older adolescents dealing with a range of difficulties including depression, anxiety and panic disorders, eating disorders, OCD, chronic illness, relationship problems, women's health issues, job and school stresses, adult adjustment to suspected or diagnosed learning differences, and life event stress.
Feel Better. Whether for depression, anxiety or relationship issues, the majority of the clients we see come to therapy with the goal of feeling better; happier, more connected to others, and free from the paralysis of emotional pain. Primarily psychodynamic and systems-oriented in approach, we look at how an issue experienced in the now came to be there, from early childhood experience to prior adult experiences, and how these all culminated in the present problem(s). We also utilize techniques to individually tailor treatment to the patient's needs, including cognitive/behavioral, problem-solving, and insight-oriented therapies, and often ..humor(!)
(610) 915-8362 View (610) 915-8362
Photo of Susan Bendersky Sacks, MSN, PMHCNS, BC, RN
Susan Bendersky Sacks
MSN, PMHCNS, BC, RN
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035
I am a published author & speaker with 42 years of experience in Clinical Hypnosis, Individual, Couples & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a BSN & MSN from University of Pennsylvania, and on their teaching faculty. I have advanced training in CISD, Certified in REBT & Clinical Hypnosis, working with weight loss, disordered eating, smoking cessation, anxiety, IBS, psychogenic pain, stress, self esteem, anger, depression, shame and guilt, and self-sabotaging emotions, intrusive thoughts. Clients average 1-3 sessions. I am down to earth, easy to talk to, organized, evidenced based & compassionate.
I am a published author & speaker with 42 years of experience in Clinical Hypnosis, Individual, Couples & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a BSN & MSN from University of Pennsylvania, and on their teaching faculty. I have advanced training in CISD, Certified in REBT & Clinical Hypnosis, working with weight loss, disordered eating, smoking cessation, anxiety, IBS, psychogenic pain, stress, self esteem, anger, depression, shame and guilt, and self-sabotaging emotions, intrusive thoughts. Clients average 1-3 sessions. I am down to earth, easy to talk to, organized, evidenced based & compassionate.
(610) 616-2207 View (610) 616-2207
Photo of Kelly Jude - Kelly Jude, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Jude, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035  (Online Only)
So, the main question: what do you have to GAIN, not lose? Being real: therapy takes courage. However, therapy brings results. Therapy is usually the single best investment you will make for your health. I have had the privilege of supporting numerous people find their way from pain and suffering to growth and hope. I pride myself on being welcoming by using humor and warmth to help your first steps be as smooth as possible. I also am well-balanced in being a listening ear while also providing practical tools. I am here to let you know that RADICAL change and healing is VERY possible, I promise. Let's talk...
So, the main question: what do you have to GAIN, not lose? Being real: therapy takes courage. However, therapy brings results. Therapy is usually the single best investment you will make for your health. I have had the privilege of supporting numerous people find their way from pain and suffering to growth and hope. I pride myself on being welcoming by using humor and warmth to help your first steps be as smooth as possible. I also am well-balanced in being a listening ear while also providing practical tools. I am here to let you know that RADICAL change and healing is VERY possible, I promise. Let's talk...
(267) 651-1748 View (267) 651-1748
Photo of Mary Aldrich, EdD, MCAT, ATR, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Aldrich
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, MCAT, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035
Mary Aldrich is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who started practicing in 1985. Mary has earned her Doctor of Education in organizational leadership emphasizing behavioral health. She also holds a master’s degree in creative arts therapy (MCAT). Mary believes in the psychodynamic therapy model and uses a person-centered, strength-based approach to empower her clients and help them reach their full potential. Mary uses a wellness and recovery-oriented model with all her clients.
Mary Aldrich is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who started practicing in 1985. Mary has earned her Doctor of Education in organizational leadership emphasizing behavioral health. She also holds a master’s degree in creative arts therapy (MCAT). Mary believes in the psychodynamic therapy model and uses a person-centered, strength-based approach to empower her clients and help them reach their full potential. Mary uses a wellness and recovery-oriented model with all her clients.
(484) 240-7152 View (484) 240-7152
Photo of Denise Botcheos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Botcheos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035  (Online Only)
I’m a down-to-earth therapist with 25 years of experience, guided by empathy and authenticity. I’m passionate about helping people improve their lives and well-being. My expertise includes addiction, anxiety, depression, and trauma. If you’re feeling out of control or have a loved one struggling with addiction, reach out. I’m committed to helping you feel empowered, more alive, rebalanced, and connected to your vision for your life. Let’s work together to create a brighter future for you.
I’m a down-to-earth therapist with 25 years of experience, guided by empathy and authenticity. I’m passionate about helping people improve their lives and well-being. My expertise includes addiction, anxiety, depression, and trauma. If you’re feeling out of control or have a loved one struggling with addiction, reach out. I’m committed to helping you feel empowered, more alive, rebalanced, and connected to your vision for your life. Let’s work together to create a brighter future for you.
(215) 996-7640 View (215) 996-7640
Photo of K. D. Ferrari, PhD, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
K. D. Ferrari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035
I'm Dr. Kate Ferrari and am here to assist you with difficulties you may be encountering in your life through a compassionate, non-judgmental approach. Regardless of the problems you are experiencing, my goal is to provide support, work with you to set goals for your future and develop tools to reach them. I believe in a holistic perspective to mental well-being, and am a proponent of neurodiversity, who will help you on your personal path towards the life you would like to live. Please note that all services are provided virtually and are tailored to fit your individual needs.
I'm Dr. Kate Ferrari and am here to assist you with difficulties you may be encountering in your life through a compassionate, non-judgmental approach. Regardless of the problems you are experiencing, my goal is to provide support, work with you to set goals for your future and develop tools to reach them. I believe in a holistic perspective to mental well-being, and am a proponent of neurodiversity, who will help you on your personal path towards the life you would like to live. Please note that all services are provided virtually and are tailored to fit your individual needs.
(814) 317-0350 View (814) 317-0350
Photo of Erin Buscham - LifeStance Health, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LifeStance Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(844) 848-1154 View (844) 848-1154
Photo of Client Care - Council for Relationships, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Council for Relationships
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035
Since 1932, Council for Relationships has provided therapy and psychiatry services to those in Pennslyvania and New Jersey. Our Staff Clinicians offer individual, relationship (sometimes called "couples"), family, and sex therapy online and in person. We make the best therapy services accessible to everyone. Our 80+ Staff Therapists & Psychiatrists specialize in over 45 specialties and provide comprehensive mental health care and medicine management. We see clients of all ages, backgrounds, religions, genders, and sexualities. We believe that thriving relationships foster flourishing communities. Let us help you thrive.
Since 1932, Council for Relationships has provided therapy and psychiatry services to those in Pennslyvania and New Jersey. Our Staff Clinicians offer individual, relationship (sometimes called "couples"), family, and sex therapy online and in person. We make the best therapy services accessible to everyone. Our 80+ Staff Therapists & Psychiatrists specialize in over 45 specialties and provide comprehensive mental health care and medicine management. We see clients of all ages, backgrounds, religions, genders, and sexualities. We believe that thriving relationships foster flourishing communities. Let us help you thrive.
(215) 382-6680 x1 View (215) 382-6680 x1
Photo of Alexa Borrows, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexa Borrows
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gladwyne, PA 19035
My goal is to empower you to identify and overcome personal obstacles that are preventing you from getting the most out of life. I strive to create a warm, empathetic, understanding and, most importantly, collaborative environment. Working together, we will tackle life’s challenges—whether they may be problems of anxiety, self-esteem, or unhealthy patterns of behavior. I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, OCD, phobias, eating disorders, and life transitions. I also work with transgender individuals. My background is in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and my hope is to help you live a more meaningful life.
My goal is to empower you to identify and overcome personal obstacles that are preventing you from getting the most out of life. I strive to create a warm, empathetic, understanding and, most importantly, collaborative environment. Working together, we will tackle life’s challenges—whether they may be problems of anxiety, self-esteem, or unhealthy patterns of behavior. I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, OCD, phobias, eating disorders, and life transitions. I also work with transgender individuals. My background is in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and my hope is to help you live a more meaningful life.
(215) 515-8877 View (215) 515-8877
Photo of Julia Sameth - Main Line and Princeton DBT Therapy, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Main Line and Princeton DBT Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gladwyne, PA 19035
Are you struggling with emotional challenges or symptoms of anxiety or depression? Maybe you are experiencing family conflict or perhaps you are dealing with grief or loss. I have specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) - an approach that offers concrete tools you can use to cultivate greater happiness and resolve conflict in more effective ways. I work with individuals and also with families to help them create new and positive ways of relating to each other and solving problems together.
Are you struggling with emotional challenges or symptoms of anxiety or depression? Maybe you are experiencing family conflict or perhaps you are dealing with grief or loss. I have specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) - an approach that offers concrete tools you can use to cultivate greater happiness and resolve conflict in more effective ways. I work with individuals and also with families to help them create new and positive ways of relating to each other and solving problems together.
(215) 274-0848 View (215) 274-0848
Photo of Emma Chambers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Chambers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gladwyne, PA 19035  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Finding a therapist, especially during periods of stress, can be extremely overwhelming. Yet, the connection, the solutions, and the relief that you can access in therapy is priceless. If you’re feeling stuck and don’t know which direction to go in, or if you’re searching for ways to save your relationship, I may be the right fit for you! I have spent the last five years as a trauma therapist for the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, providing thousands of hours of psychotherapy.
Finding a therapist, especially during periods of stress, can be extremely overwhelming. Yet, the connection, the solutions, and the relief that you can access in therapy is priceless. If you’re feeling stuck and don’t know which direction to go in, or if you’re searching for ways to save your relationship, I may be the right fit for you! I have spent the last five years as a trauma therapist for the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, providing thousands of hours of psychotherapy.
(484) 604-2821 View (484) 604-2821
Photo of Derik B Moore, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Derik B Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gladwyne, PA 19035
Hi, I'm Derik Moore, LCSW. I worked as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor for 10 years in the community mental health realm prior to establishing my own practice. I began my career working with those living with HIV as an activist in the mid-1990s in Newark and New Brunswick, NJ, where I engaged in street outreach and advocated for a harm reduction approach. This work informed my commitment to public health and to exploring how economic and sociological factors play significant roles in the ways we move through the world. I have also been a musician for nearly 40 years and offer virtual and in-person drum lessons.
Hi, I'm Derik Moore, LCSW. I worked as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor for 10 years in the community mental health realm prior to establishing my own practice. I began my career working with those living with HIV as an activist in the mid-1990s in Newark and New Brunswick, NJ, where I engaged in street outreach and advocated for a harm reduction approach. This work informed my commitment to public health and to exploring how economic and sociological factors play significant roles in the ways we move through the world. I have also been a musician for nearly 40 years and offer virtual and in-person drum lessons.
(610) 600-1396 View (610) 600-1396
Photo of Jacquelyn M. Matotek, MA, NCC, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacquelyn M. Matotek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gladwyne, PA 19035  (Online Only)
As a trauma, sex/intimacy, and relationship therapist, I bring a unique approach to the therapy process. Sex and intimacy can be challenging because of the history we bring with us into our relationships. Traumas from childhood, past relationships, trust issues, sexuality/gender struggles, anxiety, shame, stress can inhibit the development of deep intimate relationship with others. I have a passion for supporting my clients through healing and reconnection to their bodies, their own pleasure in order connect intimately in a healthy way with the people in their lives.
As a trauma, sex/intimacy, and relationship therapist, I bring a unique approach to the therapy process. Sex and intimacy can be challenging because of the history we bring with us into our relationships. Traumas from childhood, past relationships, trust issues, sexuality/gender struggles, anxiety, shame, stress can inhibit the development of deep intimate relationship with others. I have a passion for supporting my clients through healing and reconnection to their bodies, their own pleasure in order connect intimately in a healthy way with the people in their lives.
(724) 359-4020 View (724) 359-4020

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Caryn Richfield, PsyD, Psychologist
Caryn Richfield
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Conshohocken, PA 19428
In my 30 plus years of practice, I have devoted most of my time to the treatment of children, adolescents and adults of all ages. I have particular expertise in the areas of trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, eating disorders, chronic illness as well as life transitions. As well as treating individuals, I also do problem-focused marital therapy and parent counseling. My approach incorporates a blending of cognitive-behavioral strategies, determining root causes and psychoeducation. A thorough assessment of each patient helps me to formulate a plan that is individualized and focused on accomplishing specific goals.
In my 30 plus years of practice, I have devoted most of my time to the treatment of children, adolescents and adults of all ages. I have particular expertise in the areas of trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, eating disorders, chronic illness as well as life transitions. As well as treating individuals, I also do problem-focused marital therapy and parent counseling. My approach incorporates a blending of cognitive-behavioral strategies, determining root causes and psychoeducation. A thorough assessment of each patient helps me to formulate a plan that is individualized and focused on accomplishing specific goals.
(610) 624-8969 View (610) 624-8969
Photo of Julie Belling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Belling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
In my own life, I have experienced the power of therapy as a queer and neurodivergent human. Now as a therapist, I provide an affirming space that allows my clients to accept all parts of themselves and celebrate their identities. I know the vital importance of being affirmed for who you truly are in a safe space. I help people struggling with navigating a world that feels like it's not built for them. Whether it's working through chronic pain or illness, anxiety, trauma, or changing your relationship with substances, I can help you develop resiliency and experience post-traumatic growth to live your most meaningful life.
In my own life, I have experienced the power of therapy as a queer and neurodivergent human. Now as a therapist, I provide an affirming space that allows my clients to accept all parts of themselves and celebrate their identities. I know the vital importance of being affirmed for who you truly are in a safe space. I help people struggling with navigating a world that feels like it's not built for them. Whether it's working through chronic pain or illness, anxiety, trauma, or changing your relationship with substances, I can help you develop resiliency and experience post-traumatic growth to live your most meaningful life.
(267) 478-9032 View (267) 478-9032
Photo of Kristine Boward - The Centered Brain, PsyD, BCN, Psychologist
The Centered Brain
Psychologist, PsyD, BCN
Verified Verified
Conshohocken, PA 19428
The Centered Brain offers a unique integrated approach using therapy, heart rate variability, and neurofeedback. We work to regulate your physiology to help you make the most out of treatment. Most clients experience significant improvement in focus, brain fog, sleep, anxiety, rumination, hypervigilance, migraine pain, and elevated fight/flight freeze response.
The Centered Brain offers a unique integrated approach using therapy, heart rate variability, and neurofeedback. We work to regulate your physiology to help you make the most out of treatment. Most clients experience significant improvement in focus, brain fog, sleep, anxiety, rumination, hypervigilance, migraine pain, and elevated fight/flight freeze response.
(610) 878-9330 View (610) 878-9330
Photo of Dan Livney, PsyD, Psychologist
Dan Livney
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
When we experience feelings that are difficult to tolerate, or impact our ability to move through our lives, we call them by names like depression, anxiety, chronic pain, addiction, etc.
How does the "talking cure" help? It might have even been called the "listening cure." Having a helpful and supportive ear is something many people find they need at various transition points in their lives. Having a safe place to talk, in a warm and supportive environment, is crucial. The tool of our work is the relationship and, as research has shown, is the most important predictor of success in psychotherapy. I enjoy working with my patients as they seek to find their way to a richer and more fulfilling life.
When we experience feelings that are difficult to tolerate, or impact our ability to move through our lives, we call them by names like depression, anxiety, chronic pain, addiction, etc.
How does the "talking cure" help? It might have even been called the "listening cure." Having a helpful and supportive ear is something many people find they need at various transition points in their lives. Having a safe place to talk, in a warm and supportive environment, is crucial. The tool of our work is the relationship and, as research has shown, is the most important predictor of success in psychotherapy. I enjoy working with my patients as they seek to find their way to a richer and more fulfilling life.
(484) 577-2944 View (484) 577-2944
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.