Therapists in Mars, PA
![Photo of Maryann Owens, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d390a20-2393-4bc9-965d-c18ebc2a267a/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Angela Dean, PsyD, FT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/211036ff-43a8-40d9-86c7-e091cc5d8d22/1/320x400.jpeg)
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?
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.
![Photo of Erin Donnelly, PsyD, MEd, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50089881-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Cydney V. Quinn, PhD, NCSP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84a6c1e8-7c29-4326-b9aa-6afa38e94b48/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn, PhD, NCSP who conducts neuropsychological, psychological, academic, and independent educational evaluations. Dr. Quinn has over 10 years of experience in the field supporting clients with concerns related to ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mood disorders (e.g., bipolar, depression, anxiety), behavioral disorders (e.g., conduct, ODD, DMDD), personality disorders (e.g., BPD), trauma, and other diagnoses such as memory concerns, eating disorders, and OCD. She works with the individuals who are between 2 years and 65 years old
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn, PhD, NCSP who conducts neuropsychological, psychological, academic, and independent educational evaluations. Dr. Quinn has over 10 years of experience in the field supporting clients with concerns related to ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mood disorders (e.g., bipolar, depression, anxiety), behavioral disorders (e.g., conduct, ODD, DMDD), personality disorders (e.g., BPD), trauma, and other diagnoses such as memory concerns, eating disorders, and OCD. She works with the individuals who are between 2 years and 65 years old
Online Therapists
![Photo of Fred P Gallo - Gallo and Associates Psychological Services, PhD, DCEP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f26b616-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gallo and Associates Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, DCEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermitage, PA 16148
We also offer evaluations for Psychological, Psycho-Educational, Vocational, Neuro-Psychological, Disability, Chronic Pain, Implantable Therapy clearance, Bariatric Surgery, Custody, Competency, Treatment Planning, Police and Lethal Weapons.
Hi, I'm Dr. Fred Gallo and I want to Welcome you to Gallo & Associates Psychological Services. We've been in practice since 1977, offering cutting-edge therapy, coaching and evaluations to help individuals, couples, and families. We're passionate about helping people to overcome trauma, PTSD, grief, phobias, anxiety, addiction, depression, chronic pain, and relationship problems. Having published 9 books on brief therapies including Energy Psychology, I also train therapists worldwide in these skills.
We also offer evaluations for Psychological, Psycho-Educational, Vocational, Neuro-Psychological, Disability, Chronic Pain, Implantable Therapy clearance, Bariatric Surgery, Custody, Competency, Treatment Planning, Police and Lethal Weapons.
Hi, I'm Dr. Fred Gallo and I want to Welcome you to Gallo & Associates Psychological Services. We've been in practice since 1977, offering cutting-edge therapy, coaching and evaluations to help individuals, couples, and families. We're passionate about helping people to overcome trauma, PTSD, grief, phobias, anxiety, addiction, depression, chronic pain, and relationship problems. Having published 9 books on brief therapies including Energy Psychology, I also train therapists worldwide in these skills.
![Photo of Katherine Hammond Holtz, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c87308c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with individuals who are interested in promoting well-being in themselves and in relation to others. Mindfulness instruction is available as a key component of my therapy should this focus be desired. Studies have shown that a regular practice of mindfulness supports an enriched experience of life, feelings of well being, better ability to cope with stress and pain, reduced panic, anxiety, and fear and better concentration. I currently only offer tele-health, accessible from the comfort of your own home or office.
I enjoy working with individuals who are interested in promoting well-being in themselves and in relation to others. Mindfulness instruction is available as a key component of my therapy should this focus be desired. Studies have shown that a regular practice of mindfulness supports an enriched experience of life, feelings of well being, better ability to cope with stress and pain, reduced panic, anxiety, and fear and better concentration. I currently only offer tele-health, accessible from the comfort of your own home or office.
![Photo of Carolyn Menta - Menta Psychological, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f2bcc6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As an evaluator, I have a good deal of experience in child custody, evaluations for pain patients, preparation for bariatric surgery, and ACT 235 evaluations.
My ideal client is one who is highly motivated to change. My goal is to help you on your personal path to change. This process is often different for everyone and I am here to help you overcome the obstacles in your way.
As an evaluator, I have a good deal of experience in child custody, evaluations for pain patients, preparation for bariatric surgery, and ACT 235 evaluations.
My ideal client is one who is highly motivated to change. My goal is to help you on your personal path to change. This process is often different for everyone and I am here to help you overcome the obstacles in your way.
![Photo of Jamie M King - Center for Psychological Services & Life Coaching, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47e9b633-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Center for Psychological Services & Life Coaching
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensburg, PA 15601
Our professional group practice offers various services including professional therapy, life coaching and testing services. At The Center, we are passionate about empowering people to find pathways of growth and healing, to gain awareness/understanding of barriers and obstacles to health, to see our clients discover their God-given temperaments and to help them grow lives they love living. We provide best practice clinical care while additionally offering a faith-based integrative approach to clients who would like to incorporate their spirituality into counseling.
Our professional group practice offers various services including professional therapy, life coaching and testing services. At The Center, we are passionate about empowering people to find pathways of growth and healing, to gain awareness/understanding of barriers and obstacles to health, to see our clients discover their God-given temperaments and to help them grow lives they love living. We provide best practice clinical care while additionally offering a faith-based integrative approach to clients who would like to incorporate their spirituality into counseling.
![Photo of Alicia Helene Puskar - State of Mind Neuropsychology llc, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f5dd674-6044-41b3-bee6-88378535c946/2/320x400.jpeg)
State of Mind Neuropsychology llc
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Connellsville, PA 15425
Are you struggling to figure out why things feel so difficult lately? Why the things that seemed to help you before aren't working? Has everything gotten so overwhelming? You are not alone, and we can help you. Maybe you are looking for answers- why don't I feel like I used to? Maybe you’re feeling mentally slower, distracted, not thinking clearly? Maybe you’re worried about a loved one who is having problems with confusion, forgetfulness, or not acting like themselves. Through targeted neuropsychological assessment and therapy, we can help you better understand what is going on and work out how to make it the problem better.
Are you struggling to figure out why things feel so difficult lately? Why the things that seemed to help you before aren't working? Has everything gotten so overwhelming? You are not alone, and we can help you. Maybe you are looking for answers- why don't I feel like I used to? Maybe you’re feeling mentally slower, distracted, not thinking clearly? Maybe you’re worried about a loved one who is having problems with confusion, forgetfulness, or not acting like themselves. Through targeted neuropsychological assessment and therapy, we can help you better understand what is going on and work out how to make it the problem better.
![Photo of Elizabeth Jane Frontz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00aafad1-d351-4460-a8e5-6bbb4e11b296/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years experience with all age groups and various diverse populations. I provide mental health and behavioral health services to children and their families. I provide couples counseling and marital counseling as well as co-parenting counseling that are mandated or not by the court. I am trauma certified and have extensive experience in this area and in various evidenced based therapies such as EMDR, ACT, CPT, CBT, DBT, Play Therapy, etc. I utilize various modalities as well as help people cope with their problem areas.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years experience with all age groups and various diverse populations. I provide mental health and behavioral health services to children and their families. I provide couples counseling and marital counseling as well as co-parenting counseling that are mandated or not by the court. I am trauma certified and have extensive experience in this area and in various evidenced based therapies such as EMDR, ACT, CPT, CBT, DBT, Play Therapy, etc. I utilize various modalities as well as help people cope with their problem areas.
![Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54871aba-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensburg, PA 15601
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling, as well as intensive group therapy when desired. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling, as well as intensive group therapy when desired. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
![Photo of Courtney Ramous - Ramous Psychology & Associates, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccfc83a2-1fec-4e9d-9b4b-199254906195/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ramous Psychology & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
McMurray, PA 15317
Waitlist for new clients
The providers at Ramous Psychology & Associates serve individuals, couples and families in the south hills of Pittsburgh, PA who are looking for support and relief from life’s struggles. Whether it be depression, anxiety, family conflicts, challenges of divorce, parenting stress, behavioral or attention/concentration problems, or coping with life changes, we give people the tools they need to resolve difficult situations and achieve happiness and stability. We realize that no two people are the same, and we tailor our therapy to meet your specific needs as an individual.
The providers at Ramous Psychology & Associates serve individuals, couples and families in the south hills of Pittsburgh, PA who are looking for support and relief from life’s struggles. Whether it be depression, anxiety, family conflicts, challenges of divorce, parenting stress, behavioral or attention/concentration problems, or coping with life changes, we give people the tools they need to resolve difficult situations and achieve happiness and stability. We realize that no two people are the same, and we tailor our therapy to meet your specific needs as an individual.
![Photo of Tammy Fait - Tammy Fait, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d696012-0d5d-4cd5-aa78-1b3b0cca5166/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am accepting new clients and couples therapy work. I am a authentic person in therapy with you. I am along with you on the path to change. Change is always frightening. Think about if you were not experiencing fear, what would you do? Who would you be if you were not ashamed or afraid or depressed? Be the change you desire in your life! Common Issues addressed in therapy: Creating healthy boundaries with relationships, communication and conflict, healing from painful and abusive relationships, identifying your own sense of self and your emotional needs, depression and anxiety.
I am accepting new clients and couples therapy work. I am a authentic person in therapy with you. I am along with you on the path to change. Change is always frightening. Think about if you were not experiencing fear, what would you do? Who would you be if you were not ashamed or afraid or depressed? Be the change you desire in your life! Common Issues addressed in therapy: Creating healthy boundaries with relationships, communication and conflict, healing from painful and abusive relationships, identifying your own sense of self and your emotional needs, depression and anxiety.
![Photo of Stephanie Wijkstram - Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh, LPC , PhD, LMFT, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/395ff2d7-0ee9-404e-8c7c-2582573d0f44/3/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , PhD, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensburg, PA 15601
We provide counseling services to individuals, couples and families through Western Pennsylvania. Whether you are seeking treatment as an individual adult, a child, or teen, our multi-specialty approach will support your goals of resolving emotional, psychological, and relationship issues. For couples and families, our mental health specialists are experts in supporting your relationship as you gain greater friendship, intimacy, and communication barriers.
We provide counseling services to individuals, couples and families through Western Pennsylvania. Whether you are seeking treatment as an individual adult, a child, or teen, our multi-specialty approach will support your goals of resolving emotional, psychological, and relationship issues. For couples and families, our mental health specialists are experts in supporting your relationship as you gain greater friendship, intimacy, and communication barriers.
![Photo of Christopher Coburn - AMHA, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb3f9736-ec66-4ff2-866d-bb2650b840b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients who are highly motivated to change and are active participants in their treatment. I use approaches that are research-based such as cognitive behavior therapy, cognitive processing disorder and mindfulness.
I work with clients who are highly motivated to change and are active participants in their treatment. I use approaches that are research-based such as cognitive behavior therapy, cognitive processing disorder and mindfulness.
![Photo of Daniel Gruner, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5244b70c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Many come to therapy to change patterns of relating to others and themselves that they feel no longer serve them. I believe that these patterns, hard as they may be now, likely played some important role for you in the past. Perhaps addictions, habits, or defenses met otherwise unmet needs in your life, but now have become limiting and compulsive. I see myself as your partner in a process of deep listening, a process which facilitates growth, healing, and new possibilities for relating to your self and others. Specialties and modalities include: Clinical Hypnosis, gender therapy, trauma, addictions. Also see my group therapy option.
Many come to therapy to change patterns of relating to others and themselves that they feel no longer serve them. I believe that these patterns, hard as they may be now, likely played some important role for you in the past. Perhaps addictions, habits, or defenses met otherwise unmet needs in your life, but now have become limiting and compulsive. I see myself as your partner in a process of deep listening, a process which facilitates growth, healing, and new possibilities for relating to your self and others. Specialties and modalities include: Clinical Hypnosis, gender therapy, trauma, addictions. Also see my group therapy option.
![Photo of Peggy V Steinbrunner - Horizon Behavioral Health, PLLC, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6eaa1a2b-1dc2-428c-a691-6f8a431ddc90/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced clinical psychologist and supervisor, well-versed in telehealth; I am also an Active Duty Veteran and currently serve in the PA Army National Guard. We have a staff providers who are well trained and available via telehealth or in-person. Patient populations of focus include Veterans, Military, and First Responders. Additional areas of expertise are other public safety activities including treatment of patients who are justice involved, those with substance use disorder, and providing evidence based care for trauma, depression, stress and adjustment issues, as well as relationship and marriage concerns.
I am an experienced clinical psychologist and supervisor, well-versed in telehealth; I am also an Active Duty Veteran and currently serve in the PA Army National Guard. We have a staff providers who are well trained and available via telehealth or in-person. Patient populations of focus include Veterans, Military, and First Responders. Additional areas of expertise are other public safety activities including treatment of patients who are justice involved, those with substance use disorder, and providing evidence based care for trauma, depression, stress and adjustment issues, as well as relationship and marriage concerns.
![Photo of Vanessa Talkington Michael - Psychological Perspectives LLC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f083853-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychological Perspectives LLC is a group private practice located in Pleasant Hills, right off of Route 51. We are comprised of licensed psychologists, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Licensed Clinical Social Woker (LCSW) and doctoral trainees. The focus of the practice is to provide a safe and supportive environment to address treatment issues, along with building a positive and caring therapeutic relationship.
Psychological Perspectives LLC is a group private practice located in Pleasant Hills, right off of Route 51. We are comprised of licensed psychologists, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Licensed Clinical Social Woker (LCSW) and doctoral trainees. The focus of the practice is to provide a safe and supportive environment to address treatment issues, along with building a positive and caring therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Peter C Zubritzky - Dr. Peter C. Zubritzky, Licensed Psychologist, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ba9978a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Peter C. Zubritzky, Licensed Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
McKees Rocks, PA 15136
I am a licensed psychologist with decades of experience and extensive education/experience-not a professional counselor (LPC) with less education. My approach to therapy is goals-orientated approach and mindfulness using cognitive-behavioral therapy developing client empowerment. Counseling is for adults, age 18 and older and couples. I also provide testing for ACT 235 (Lethal Weapons certification) and ACT120 testing (the MMPI-2 exam and the Nelson-Denny Reading test) for applicants to Pennsylvania police academies, and testing for employment as police officers. I offer quick appointments and service.
I am a licensed psychologist with decades of experience and extensive education/experience-not a professional counselor (LPC) with less education. My approach to therapy is goals-orientated approach and mindfulness using cognitive-behavioral therapy developing client empowerment. Counseling is for adults, age 18 and older and couples. I also provide testing for ACT 235 (Lethal Weapons certification) and ACT120 testing (the MMPI-2 exam and the Nelson-Denny Reading test) for applicants to Pennsylvania police academies, and testing for employment as police officers. I offer quick appointments and service.
See more therapy options for Mars
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Mars
- Allison Park
- Aspinwall
- Butler
- Coraopolis
- Cranberry Township
- Fox Chapel
- Gibsonia
- Moon Township
- Natrona Heights
- New Kensington
- Sewickley
- Wexford
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.