Chronic Pain Therapists in Mars, PA

Photo of Elaine A Malec - Malec and Associates, Inc, PhD, Psychologist
Malec and Associates, Inc
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mars, PA 16046
We are accepting new patients. Are you seeking a haven of peace and growth for your mind? Look no further than Malec and Associates. We understand that your mental well-being is of utmost importance, and our dedicated team of experienced providers is here to support you on your journey. At Malec and Associates, we believe in the power of personalized care. Our compassionate providers take the time to truly understand your unique challenges, creating a safe and trusting environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment.
We are accepting new patients. Are you seeking a haven of peace and growth for your mind? Look no further than Malec and Associates. We understand that your mental well-being is of utmost importance, and our dedicated team of experienced providers is here to support you on your journey. At Malec and Associates, we believe in the power of personalized care. Our compassionate providers take the time to truly understand your unique challenges, creating a safe and trusting environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment.
(724) 952-3396 x104 View (724) 952-3396 x104
Photo of Robert Bartek, PhD, Psychologist
Robert Bartek
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mars, PA 16046
Family means everything and when one member suffers the whole family suffers. Our marriages matter, our children matter, our families matter and so do you. I have been in the field of psychology since 1983. I specialize in marital, child, and adolescent therapies and issues related to depression, anxiety, bipolar and personality disorders. Behavioral, relationship and personality variables all contribute to wellness. I offer behavioral, cognitive and psychodynamic modalities to address these issues. Please call, no e-mails. Thank you.
Family means everything and when one member suffers the whole family suffers. Our marriages matter, our children matter, our families matter and so do you. I have been in the field of psychology since 1983. I specialize in marital, child, and adolescent therapies and issues related to depression, anxiety, bipolar and personality disorders. Behavioral, relationship and personality variables all contribute to wellness. I offer behavioral, cognitive and psychodynamic modalities to address these issues. Please call, no e-mails. Thank you.
(724) 245-3620 View (724) 245-3620
Photo of Dr. Amana Carvalho, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Amana Carvalho
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mars, PA 16046
It takes strength & courage to acknowledge personal shortcomings, painful experiences, & life stressors. I commend you for seeking professional help & I would be honored to be part of your journey of healing & self-improvement. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist, lesbian, & woman of color. I believe that, in addition to my professional training, these multiple identities & life experiences have enabled me to understand & help a variety of therapy clients. My therapeutic style is collaborative, egalitarian, & non-judgmental. The most significant aspect of treatment is our relationship.
It takes strength & courage to acknowledge personal shortcomings, painful experiences, & life stressors. I commend you for seeking professional help & I would be honored to be part of your journey of healing & self-improvement. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist, lesbian, & woman of color. I believe that, in addition to my professional training, these multiple identities & life experiences have enabled me to understand & help a variety of therapy clients. My therapeutic style is collaborative, egalitarian, & non-judgmental. The most significant aspect of treatment is our relationship.
(724) 252-4637 View (724) 252-4637
Photo of Angela Collins, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Mars, PA 16046
Working from a trauma-informed perspective and following an empowerment model, I provide individual therapy, couples counseling, and group therapy. My work involves considering the person within the context of their life journey and traveling with this individual as he/she moves toward his/her understanding of a quality life.
Working from a trauma-informed perspective and following an empowerment model, I provide individual therapy, couples counseling, and group therapy. My work involves considering the person within the context of their life journey and traveling with this individual as he/she moves toward his/her understanding of a quality life.
(412) 254-3995 View (412) 254-3995
Photo of Maryann Owens, PhD, Psychologist
Maryann Owens
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mars, PA 16046
If you're an adult who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by trauma, or stuck in the grip of depression, I'm here to walk alongside you. Perhaps you're battling relentless stress or you're finding that your relationships just aren't what they used to be—whatever it is, know that there's a space for you in my practice. I specialize in helping people like you manage the tough stuff: the anxiety that won't quiet down, the traumatic memories that linger, the heavy blanket of depression, and the stress that seems to color your every day.
If you're an adult who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by trauma, or stuck in the grip of depression, I'm here to walk alongside you. Perhaps you're battling relentless stress or you're finding that your relationships just aren't what they used to be—whatever it is, know that there's a space for you in my practice. I specialize in helping people like you manage the tough stuff: the anxiety that won't quiet down, the traumatic memories that linger, the heavy blanket of depression, and the stress that seems to color your every day.
(412) 207-3813 View (412) 207-3813
Photo of Catherine Grieb - Hope Counseling Pittsburgh - Wexford, MA, LPC, NCC
Hope Counseling Pittsburgh - Wexford
MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mars, PA 16046
Do you struggle with challenging relationships? Does your anxiety prevent you from living the life you want? Are you struggling with a child who has a diagnosis of ADHD? Are you grieving the loss of a loved one and wonder how am I going to live without them? Is an addictive pattern of behavior causing you or a loved one harm? Do you feel unheard in your marriage? Now more than ever, people of all ages are experiencing feelings of overwhelm, frustration and anxiety about how they are to move forward in a meaningful way that honors their mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.
Do you struggle with challenging relationships? Does your anxiety prevent you from living the life you want? Are you struggling with a child who has a diagnosis of ADHD? Are you grieving the loss of a loved one and wonder how am I going to live without them? Is an addictive pattern of behavior causing you or a loved one harm? Do you feel unheard in your marriage? Now more than ever, people of all ages are experiencing feelings of overwhelm, frustration and anxiety about how they are to move forward in a meaningful way that honors their mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.
(724) 604-4184 View (724) 604-4184

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cynthia B. Kinney, MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia B. Kinney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237  (Online Only)
Life during these times can be overwhelming. Multiple issues build up inside of us and can become compounded. We hold all of these stresses in our body and it is easy to feel anxious, depressed, sick and unhappy. I have extensive training and experience working with stress related issues, particularly work and family overload, chronic pain and illness, aging, dealing with the effects of Alzheimer's disease, and grief. I will help you to develop your inner strength and spirituality. We will explore your thoughts and feelings to solve your life problems and to use these skills so that you heal and thrive.
Life during these times can be overwhelming. Multiple issues build up inside of us and can become compounded. We hold all of these stresses in our body and it is easy to feel anxious, depressed, sick and unhappy. I have extensive training and experience working with stress related issues, particularly work and family overload, chronic pain and illness, aging, dealing with the effects of Alzheimer's disease, and grief. I will help you to develop your inner strength and spirituality. We will explore your thoughts and feelings to solve your life problems and to use these skills so that you heal and thrive.
(412) 455-7257 View (412) 455-7257
Photo of Julia Gatti, PhD, Psychologist
Julia Gatti
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
I am a licensed psychologist and have been providing therapy for individuals, families and couples for over 23 years. I have been in private practice since 1992, and have worked extensively in private, hospital and community mental health settings. My work focuses on helping people who are experiencing Depression and Anxiety. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and physical (body) problems. My specialties include trauma(PTSD, dissociation), abuse (sexual, physical, domestic),anxiety disorders,and body issues (illness, pain, eating disorders, fibromyalgia). I believe all people can become happier and I work with clients to make families healthier places for everyone.
I am a licensed psychologist and have been providing therapy for individuals, families and couples for over 23 years. I have been in private practice since 1992, and have worked extensively in private, hospital and community mental health settings. My work focuses on helping people who are experiencing Depression and Anxiety. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and physical (body) problems. My specialties include trauma(PTSD, dissociation), abuse (sexual, physical, domestic),anxiety disorders,and body issues (illness, pain, eating disorders, fibromyalgia). I believe all people can become happier and I work with clients to make families healthier places for everyone.
(724) 498-4939 View (724) 498-4939
Photo of Ken Evanoski, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ken Evanoski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
Are you someone who is dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship problems, or physical pain? It may be time to reach out for some help. I specialize in working with adults, late teens, those over 65, & parents who are struggling with disruptive children. I'm here to help you get some relief & to get some control back in your life.
Are you someone who is dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship problems, or physical pain? It may be time to reach out for some help. I specialize in working with adults, late teens, those over 65, & parents who are struggling with disruptive children. I'm here to help you get some relief & to get some control back in your life.
(412) 207-3934 View (412) 207-3934
Photo of Hannah Gilmore, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Gilmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
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.
(724) 414-3382 View (724) 414-3382
Photo of Megan Voll, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Voll
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
Being the parent of a child with a chronic illness or special medical need can be incredibly stressful and many parents often feel anxious, sad, or overwhelmed.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Aspire Counseling, Megan is a trusted therapist in the Wexford area who specializes in working with parents of children with chronic illness and special medical needs. She provides therapy to mothers who are anxious or who are having difficulty adjusting to their child's diagnosis, providing coping skills in a compassionate environment that allows them to navigate each day more smoothly and with confidence.
Being the parent of a child with a chronic illness or special medical need can be incredibly stressful and many parents often feel anxious, sad, or overwhelmed.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Aspire Counseling, Megan is a trusted therapist in the Wexford area who specializes in working with parents of children with chronic illness and special medical needs. She provides therapy to mothers who are anxious or who are having difficulty adjusting to their child's diagnosis, providing coping skills in a compassionate environment that allows them to navigate each day more smoothly and with confidence.
(724) 907-1044 View (724) 907-1044
Photo of Dr. Angela Dean, PsyD, FT, Psychologist
Dr. Angela Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, FT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
Waitlist for new clients
Drawing upon years of experience with patients and caregivers affected by chronic illness, I rely on proven methods that enable you to cope and overcome hurdles.
You miss your old, capable self. Your days are now busy with appointments, interrupted by the side effects of your disease or treatment, and flooded with emotions. Life is sometimes difficult, but chronic illness has made your circumstances even more complicated. You're so tired of feeling lost and waiting for life to return to normal. As others dismiss your concerns with well-meaning statements of hope or offers of vague promises of help, your isolation grows. Hopelessness and fear creep in. You know you need support or guidance, but figuring out who or what will be helpful feels overwhelming. Where do you even begin?
Drawing upon years of experience with patients and caregivers affected by chronic illness, I rely on proven methods that enable you to cope and overcome hurdles.
You miss your old, capable self. Your days are now busy with appointments, interrupted by the side effects of your disease or treatment, and flooded with emotions. Life is sometimes difficult, but chronic illness has made your circumstances even more complicated. You're so tired of feeling lost and waiting for life to return to normal. As others dismiss your concerns with well-meaning statements of hope or offers of vague promises of help, your isolation grows. Hopelessness and fear creep in. You know you need support or guidance, but figuring out who or what will be helpful feels overwhelming. Where do you even begin?
(724) 200-8495 View (724) 200-8495
Photo of Michael Schneider - New Directions Mental Health - Wexford, PsyD, Psychologist
New Directions Mental Health - Wexford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with challenges including: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from traumatic experiences; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with challenges including: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from traumatic experiences; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
(724) 436-1948 View (724) 436-1948
Photo of Jenny Rozzell, CH, ACC, MEd
Jenny Rozzell
CH, ACC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
Specialties: intentional change, goals, mindfulness, grief, parenting, relationships, dating, boundaries, divorce, hypnosis, pre-marital, behavior, confidence, Life’s Purpose, Adjusting to Change, Careers, Work & Team Conflicts; as well as working with individuals navigating symptoms of Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Insomnia, Pain, Hoarding, Nail Biting, Anger, Stress.
I am a Board Certified Hypnotist and Coach with years of experience. I believe in a holistic approach,meaning that mind, body, and spirit all play into our well-being. Seeking help can feel uncomfortable not only to those who have never sought it before, but also to those who have had negative experiences. I adapt my approach to each individual’s unique situation. I strive to provide a comfortable, confidential, safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space; where you will not simply "learn coping skills", but will learn how to work through stresses and problems to facilitate long-lasting change. My goal is to help you help yourself!
Specialties: intentional change, goals, mindfulness, grief, parenting, relationships, dating, boundaries, divorce, hypnosis, pre-marital, behavior, confidence, Life’s Purpose, Adjusting to Change, Careers, Work & Team Conflicts; as well as working with individuals navigating symptoms of Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Insomnia, Pain, Hoarding, Nail Biting, Anger, Stress.
I am a Board Certified Hypnotist and Coach with years of experience. I believe in a holistic approach,meaning that mind, body, and spirit all play into our well-being. Seeking help can feel uncomfortable not only to those who have never sought it before, but also to those who have had negative experiences. I adapt my approach to each individual’s unique situation. I strive to provide a comfortable, confidential, safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space; where you will not simply "learn coping skills", but will learn how to work through stresses and problems to facilitate long-lasting change. My goal is to help you help yourself!
(724) 578-5836 View (724) 578-5836
Photo of Shannon Schroeder, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Schroeder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with pain from the past, challenges of current circumstances, or concerns about an uncertain future? Perhaps you are wanting to work through trauma, issues with mood or anxiety, or eating/body image concerns? Are you in a hard season of life where discouragement, hurt, and struggles feel overwhelming? So many people have been where you are and found counseling to be a safe space to work on their journey for hope and healing. if you are looking for a space where you can change the way you think, gather awareness and work on emotion regulation, and find accountability and encouragement for change, I can help.
Are you struggling with pain from the past, challenges of current circumstances, or concerns about an uncertain future? Perhaps you are wanting to work through trauma, issues with mood or anxiety, or eating/body image concerns? Are you in a hard season of life where discouragement, hurt, and struggles feel overwhelming? So many people have been where you are and found counseling to be a safe space to work on their journey for hope and healing. if you are looking for a space where you can change the way you think, gather awareness and work on emotion regulation, and find accountability and encouragement for change, I can help.
(724) 204-2219 View (724) 204-2219
Photo of Megan Dufford, PsyD, Psychologist
Megan Dufford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090  (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, identity concerns, grief/loss, chronic illness, and women's issues are a sampling of concerns I find meaning in helping clients navigate.
Many find psychotherapy useful as a space to explore stressors and difficulties, learn new ways to cope with hardships, and ultimately make changes to enhance quality of life. I remain focused on providing support to each client and incorporate techniques aimed to alleviate distress, foster resilience, and help one move closer to achieving their goals. I utilize an integrative approach including person-centered, supportive, CBT, and/or psychodynamic techniques, always tailoring my style to meet each client's unique needs.
Anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, identity concerns, grief/loss, chronic illness, and women's issues are a sampling of concerns I find meaning in helping clients navigate.
Many find psychotherapy useful as a space to explore stressors and difficulties, learn new ways to cope with hardships, and ultimately make changes to enhance quality of life. I remain focused on providing support to each client and incorporate techniques aimed to alleviate distress, foster resilience, and help one move closer to achieving their goals. I utilize an integrative approach including person-centered, supportive, CBT, and/or psychodynamic techniques, always tailoring my style to meet each client's unique needs.
(412) 253-7125 View (412) 253-7125
Photo of Janessa Nowlen Lorenzo, PsyD, Psychologist
Janessa Nowlen Lorenzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
Are you a college student, young adult, or high schooler who is feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, or depressed? I can help with processing stress related to school, work, friendships, or relationships. I'll help you address challenging situations and stressful transitions in your life by providing a space to process your thoughts and emotions, as well as learning helpful coping strategies. I also specialize in helping younger women with chronic pain or other chronic medical illnesses.
Are you a college student, young adult, or high schooler who is feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, or depressed? I can help with processing stress related to school, work, friendships, or relationships. I'll help you address challenging situations and stressful transitions in your life by providing a space to process your thoughts and emotions, as well as learning helpful coping strategies. I also specialize in helping younger women with chronic pain or other chronic medical illnesses.
(878) 216-0035 View (878) 216-0035
Photo of Elizabeth Cessna, MS, NBCCH
Elizabeth Cessna
MS, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
People receive hypnotherapy services for a variety of reasons. Typically they desire a positive change in their lives and would like to experience this change in a short period of time. While Elizabeth specializes in treating people who suffer with anxiety, she can also help those who want to alleviate:stress, fears, relationship issues, pain management, co-dependency intimacy and infertility issues. Elizabeth has been a therapist in private practice for over 25 years. She is board certified as a clinical hypnotherapist. Elizabeth practices Ericksonian Hypnotherapy because it is gentle, permissive, and respectful of the individual client.
People receive hypnotherapy services for a variety of reasons. Typically they desire a positive change in their lives and would like to experience this change in a short period of time. While Elizabeth specializes in treating people who suffer with anxiety, she can also help those who want to alleviate:stress, fears, relationship issues, pain management, co-dependency intimacy and infertility issues. Elizabeth has been a therapist in private practice for over 25 years. She is board certified as a clinical hypnotherapist. Elizabeth practices Ericksonian Hypnotherapy because it is gentle, permissive, and respectful of the individual client.
(412) 307-4975 View (412) 307-4975
David E Levit
Psychologist, PSY
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I addition to providing psychotherapy for most mental health issues as well as stress management, I also have a Diplomate in pain management from the American Academy of Pain Management.
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh. I earned my doctorate at Nova University School of Professional Psychology, my Master's Degree at Duquesne University, and my Bachelor's Degree from Washington and Jefferson College. I completed an APA approved internship at the VA Medical Center in Salem Virginia. My almost thirty years experience is in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy, and have worked in private practice since 1985. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, anger management, ADD/ADHD/ODD, loss, behavioral management, and thought disorders.
I addition to providing psychotherapy for most mental health issues as well as stress management, I also have a Diplomate in pain management from the American Academy of Pain Management.
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh. I earned my doctorate at Nova University School of Professional Psychology, my Master's Degree at Duquesne University, and my Bachelor's Degree from Washington and Jefferson College. I completed an APA approved internship at the VA Medical Center in Salem Virginia. My almost thirty years experience is in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy, and have worked in private practice since 1985. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, anger management, ADD/ADHD/ODD, loss, behavioral management, and thought disorders.
(412) 906-9181 View (412) 906-9181
Photo of Erin Donnelly, PsyD, MEd, Psychologist
Erin Donnelly
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Allison Park, PA 15101  (Online Only)
My practice uniquely focuses on sexuality and reproduction: relationships/sex therapy, sexual dysfunctions, pelvic pain conditions, infertility and ARTs/third party parenting (& evaluations), adoption, reproductive traumas, peri/postpartum issues, transition to parenthood and gender identity.
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
My practice uniquely focuses on sexuality and reproduction: relationships/sex therapy, sexual dysfunctions, pelvic pain conditions, infertility and ARTs/third party parenting (& evaluations), adoption, reproductive traumas, peri/postpartum issues, transition to parenthood and gender identity.
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
(913) 370-7041 View (913) 370-7041
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.