Chronic Pain Therapists in McMurray, PA

Photo of Kimberly June, LCSW, LMT, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly June
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMT, CST
Verified Verified
McMurray, PA 15317
I treat chronic pain resulting from old injuries, traumatic brain injury, whiplash, chronic headache/migraine, concussion and facial trauma using Cranio-Sacral Therapy and Energy Integration and Alignment, a technique I developed over the past 5 years.
I am a holistic psychotherapist, trained in medical hypnotherapy,EMDR, Energy Psychology (TFT/EFT), Family Constellation work, and energy and shamanic healing in private practice in Pittsburgh. I work primarily with adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. I have trained extensively in the integration of different therapeutic modalities in order to facilitate healing and integration of the body, mind and spirit. I am also a student of meditation and teach the "Awakening the Light Body" meditation curriculum offered as both a pathway of personal transformation and as a therapeutic treatment model.
I treat chronic pain resulting from old injuries, traumatic brain injury, whiplash, chronic headache/migraine, concussion and facial trauma using Cranio-Sacral Therapy and Energy Integration and Alignment, a technique I developed over the past 5 years.
I am a holistic psychotherapist, trained in medical hypnotherapy,EMDR, Energy Psychology (TFT/EFT), Family Constellation work, and energy and shamanic healing in private practice in Pittsburgh. I work primarily with adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. I have trained extensively in the integration of different therapeutic modalities in order to facilitate healing and integration of the body, mind and spirit. I am also a student of meditation and teach the "Awakening the Light Body" meditation curriculum offered as both a pathway of personal transformation and as a therapeutic treatment model.
(724) 359-0802 View (724) 359-0802
Photo of Cristina Panaccione - Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McMurray, PA 15317
Our specialties include Hoarding Support and Treatment, Caregiver Support, Life Coaching, Stress Management, Managing Chronic Pain/Health Concerns, Addiction/Recovery, Family Issues, Children & Teens, Women's Issues, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Grief/Loss, Trauma, and General Health and Wellness.
Our practice is a small, down to earth setting. We strive to make our clients feel at home and connected with supportive, caring staff. We come from many walks of life and a wide range of experience. We will tailor our treatment methods to best suit your needs so that you can get out of our office and back into the life you were meant to lead! Our office is open 7 days a week with morning, afternoon and evening hours to best suit your needs.
Our specialties include Hoarding Support and Treatment, Caregiver Support, Life Coaching, Stress Management, Managing Chronic Pain/Health Concerns, Addiction/Recovery, Family Issues, Children & Teens, Women's Issues, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Grief/Loss, Trauma, and General Health and Wellness.
Our practice is a small, down to earth setting. We strive to make our clients feel at home and connected with supportive, caring staff. We come from many walks of life and a wide range of experience. We will tailor our treatment methods to best suit your needs so that you can get out of our office and back into the life you were meant to lead! Our office is open 7 days a week with morning, afternoon and evening hours to best suit your needs.
(412) 961-9683 View (412) 961-9683
Photo of Courtney Ramous - Ramous Psychology & Associates, PsyD, Psychologist
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.
(878) 213-4778 View (878) 213-4778
Photo of Dawn Marie Friend - Dr. Dawn Marie Friend & Associates, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Dawn Marie Friend & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McMurray, PA 15317
I have been helping clients of all ages, races, and backgrounds live more fulfilling, rewarding, hopeful lives for as long as I can remember. It was natural for me to become a psychologist and make my mark on the world by doing exactly what I loved to do. Although my clients continually tell me how much they are helped by therapy, I can honestly say that I am the one who is truly changed by helping others. No matter what your difficulties are, I can assure you that you will be changed in some way by entering therapy. There is no difficulty too great or too small to work on in therapy. The only constant in life is change.
I have been helping clients of all ages, races, and backgrounds live more fulfilling, rewarding, hopeful lives for as long as I can remember. It was natural for me to become a psychologist and make my mark on the world by doing exactly what I loved to do. Although my clients continually tell me how much they are helped by therapy, I can honestly say that I am the one who is truly changed by helping others. No matter what your difficulties are, I can assure you that you will be changed in some way by entering therapy. There is no difficulty too great or too small to work on in therapy. The only constant in life is change.
(412) 924-8276 View (412) 924-8276
Photo of Mikee Lee Krieg - Women In Balance, Counseling Services, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Women In Balance, Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
McMurray, PA 15317
Recognized as 2022 Best of Morgantown Mental Health Practice, we go above and beyond in providing effective counseling to women & couples in obtaining overall balance & fulfillment in their life. We specialize in working with women at various stages in life who may be struggling to balance everyday demands such as being a working professional, motherhood, relationships, life transitions, loss, academic stress, infertility, or simply needing support. Our non-judgmental & empathetic clinicians provide a safe space to comfortably explore life challenges while learning skills that promote confidence to the mind, body & soul!
Recognized as 2022 Best of Morgantown Mental Health Practice, we go above and beyond in providing effective counseling to women & couples in obtaining overall balance & fulfillment in their life. We specialize in working with women at various stages in life who may be struggling to balance everyday demands such as being a working professional, motherhood, relationships, life transitions, loss, academic stress, infertility, or simply needing support. Our non-judgmental & empathetic clinicians provide a safe space to comfortably explore life challenges while learning skills that promote confidence to the mind, body & soul!
(681) 539-5347 View (681) 539-5347
Photo of Alison Armstrong, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McMurray, PA 15317
It can be hard to ask for help. My focus is always on you, what you want and determining and meeting your goals. My orientation is open-minded, experienced, respectful and non-judgmental. I have been in the Behavioral Health field for 25 years and have a reputation of authenticity, unconditional, positive regard for clients and strong, reliable abilities and skills in dealing with life's challenges. I primarily practice CBT, Gestalt and Mindfulness therapies.
It can be hard to ask for help. My focus is always on you, what you want and determining and meeting your goals. My orientation is open-minded, experienced, respectful and non-judgmental. I have been in the Behavioral Health field for 25 years and have a reputation of authenticity, unconditional, positive regard for clients and strong, reliable abilities and skills in dealing with life's challenges. I primarily practice CBT, Gestalt and Mindfulness therapies.
(724) 941-5363 View (724) 941-5363
Photo of Stephanie Marie Wijkstrom - The Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh, MS, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
McMurray, PA 15317
Our Counseling and Psychiatric team in Pittsburgh, Wexford, Monroeville, Greensburg, South Hills, Cranberry, and Online, specializes in providing compassionate mental health services for you, your marriage, and family. If you're grappling with anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, ADHD, PTSD, relationship conflicts, communication challenges, or more, we recognize how these issues can impact your desired life. Our counseling team, complemented by telepsychiatry and medication management services, provides evidence-based therapy solutions for you. With personalized treatment plans, our goal is to fast-track your journey to wellness.
Our Counseling and Psychiatric team in Pittsburgh, Wexford, Monroeville, Greensburg, South Hills, Cranberry, and Online, specializes in providing compassionate mental health services for you, your marriage, and family. If you're grappling with anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, ADHD, PTSD, relationship conflicts, communication challenges, or more, we recognize how these issues can impact your desired life. Our counseling team, complemented by telepsychiatry and medication management services, provides evidence-based therapy solutions for you. With personalized treatment plans, our goal is to fast-track your journey to wellness.
(412) 567-6013 View (412) 567-6013
Photo of Kristen Keeper, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen Keeper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McMurray, PA 15317
I primarily work with those suffering from trauma-based issues, abuse, PTSD, anxiety, and Women’s issues (such as pregnancy and postpartum). I enjoy working with those looking to heal from past trauma or adverse experiences in order to heal and live a more fulfilling life. I also seek to assist those suffering from anxiety in the present, as well as those experiencing feelings that are overwhelming and difficult. If you are looking to heal from your past and be more comfortable in your present, I am here to help.
I primarily work with those suffering from trauma-based issues, abuse, PTSD, anxiety, and Women’s issues (such as pregnancy and postpartum). I enjoy working with those looking to heal from past trauma or adverse experiences in order to heal and live a more fulfilling life. I also seek to assist those suffering from anxiety in the present, as well as those experiencing feelings that are overwhelming and difficult. If you are looking to heal from your past and be more comfortable in your present, I am here to help.
(878) 728-9911 View (878) 728-9911

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ann-Michele Corbi Potvin, MA, LPC, BC-DMT, GL-CMA, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ann-Michele Corbi Potvin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BC-DMT, GL-CMA, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
My thesis research was on the psychological/emotional aspects of chronic pain and I have experience in providing perinatal support.
I take a humanistic approach to therapy and believe that we make meaning out of the events of our lives; we are capable of engaging our creativity and its healing processes. There are times when we need support to pause, breathe, and listen to our inner wisdom. I will serve as a guide and support, encouraging you to maintain or regain ownership of your own life narrative. My approach is also contemplative, relational, and existential. I often utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to support you in decreasing struggle and living in alignment with your values.
My thesis research was on the psychological/emotional aspects of chronic pain and I have experience in providing perinatal support.
I take a humanistic approach to therapy and believe that we make meaning out of the events of our lives; we are capable of engaging our creativity and its healing processes. There are times when we need support to pause, breathe, and listen to our inner wisdom. I will serve as a guide and support, encouraging you to maintain or regain ownership of your own life narrative. My approach is also contemplative, relational, and existential. I often utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to support you in decreasing struggle and living in alignment with your values.
(215) 712-8116 View (215) 712-8116
Photo of Dorothy L Ingram - Peace and Perspective Counseling, LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peace and Perspective Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, PA 15301
I specialize in addressing addiction, trauma, life transitions, grief/loss, chronic pain/medical issues, depression and anxiety among other life concerns.
Please note the location change! In these times of uncertainty, everyone could use a little support. As a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment, I'm here to support you, whether you're looking to learn how to better manage stress, a chronic health condition, heal trauma, resolve family conflict, substance abuse/dependency, grief/loss, or manage a mood disorder. We partner together to tailor therapy that addresses your individual needs. Change is always possible and I'd be honored to be a part of your journey.
I specialize in addressing addiction, trauma, life transitions, grief/loss, chronic pain/medical issues, depression and anxiety among other life concerns.
Please note the location change! In these times of uncertainty, everyone could use a little support. As a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment, I'm here to support you, whether you're looking to learn how to better manage stress, a chronic health condition, heal trauma, resolve family conflict, substance abuse/dependency, grief/loss, or manage a mood disorder. We partner together to tailor therapy that addresses your individual needs. Change is always possible and I'd be honored to be a part of your journey.
(878) 216-0339 View (878) 216-0339
Photo of Mrigaya Sinha, PhD, Psychologist
Mrigaya Sinha
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15241  (Online Only)
People do the best they can for their lives, however, old traumas, wounds and life challenges can create suffering, depression and anxiety. This can be a very lonely place to be 'stuck in' and we all deserve to find our way to health and healing. When people are held with compassion and warmth, there can be tremendous healing and big transformations. I have worked extensively with adults facing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, chronic pain, interpersonal issues, and adjustment problems. No matter at what pace people want to go, this journey of healing and growth should not be a lonely one.
People do the best they can for their lives, however, old traumas, wounds and life challenges can create suffering, depression and anxiety. This can be a very lonely place to be 'stuck in' and we all deserve to find our way to health and healing. When people are held with compassion and warmth, there can be tremendous healing and big transformations. I have worked extensively with adults facing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, chronic pain, interpersonal issues, and adjustment problems. No matter at what pace people want to go, this journey of healing and growth should not be a lonely one.
(412) 460-4148 x688 View (412) 460-4148 x688
Photo of Hannah Gilmore, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Gilmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
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 Beth Christiano, PhD, Psychologist
Beth Christiano
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
Are you noticing an imbalance in your life, in your body, or in your emotions that makes it difficult to see your options, recognize your power, and clarify your goals? I am a Clinical Psychologist, a Registered Yoga Instructor, and a Certified Yoga Therapist with over twenty-five years of experience helping people create clarity, realize their potential, and work towards achieving their goals. I work with adolescents and adults, who experience stressful life events, illness/injury, emotions (like depression and anxiety) and behaviors (like eating disorders and additions) that lead them to feel "stuck".
Are you noticing an imbalance in your life, in your body, or in your emotions that makes it difficult to see your options, recognize your power, and clarify your goals? I am a Clinical Psychologist, a Registered Yoga Instructor, and a Certified Yoga Therapist with over twenty-five years of experience helping people create clarity, realize their potential, and work towards achieving their goals. I work with adolescents and adults, who experience stressful life events, illness/injury, emotions (like depression and anxiety) and behaviors (like eating disorders and additions) that lead them to feel "stuck".
(412) 960-4930 View (412) 960-4930
Photo of Aryn Smeltzer, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aryn Smeltzer
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
My name is Aryn Smeltzer and I am the owner of Healing with Hope LLC! Sometimes life is hard and just plain messy, and we just need someone who can listen, guide, challenge and support us in our life journey. It is my passion to walk this journey with you as you navigate the stressors, traumas and unexpected turns that life can throw at you. Your experiences are unique to you. I desire our therapeutic relationship to be collaborative as we work together to create interventions that spark growth and ultimately, healing.
My name is Aryn Smeltzer and I am the owner of Healing with Hope LLC! Sometimes life is hard and just plain messy, and we just need someone who can listen, guide, challenge and support us in our life journey. It is my passion to walk this journey with you as you navigate the stressors, traumas and unexpected turns that life can throw at you. Your experiences are unique to you. I desire our therapeutic relationship to be collaborative as we work together to create interventions that spark growth and ultimately, healing.
(717) 973-8221 View (717) 973-8221
Photo of Julie Zubryd, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Zubryd
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McDonald, PA 15057  (Online Only)
I am Julie Zubryd, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I provide individual therapy in person in Robinson Township, PA, or via telehealth in PA. I treat a variety of conditions including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, trauma, abuse, family issues, relationship dysfunction, life transitions, work stress, and assertiveness training. I work with individuals 18+. I treat a variety of conditions including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, trauma, abuse, family issues, relationship dysfunction, life transitions, work stress, and assertiveness training.
I am Julie Zubryd, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I provide individual therapy in person in Robinson Township, PA, or via telehealth in PA. I treat a variety of conditions including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, trauma, abuse, family issues, relationship dysfunction, life transitions, work stress, and assertiveness training. I work with individuals 18+. I treat a variety of conditions including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, trauma, abuse, family issues, relationship dysfunction, life transitions, work stress, and assertiveness training.
(717) 276-4188 View (717) 276-4188
Photo of Jacqueline Clous, MS
Jacqueline Clous
MS
Verified Verified
Washington, PA 15301  (Online Only)
I genuinely enjoy helping clients navigate tough challenges like addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, family conflict, low self-esteem, self-harm, or chronic stress. If you're looking for a safe, judgment-free space to explore your thoughts and emotions, I'm here for you. It brings me great joy to help you develop effective coping strategies, build resilience, and improve your overall well-being. Your goals might include managing mental health, improving relationships, and finding balance. Count on receiving personalized treatment plans, access to resources, and compassionate, high-quality care every step of the way.
I genuinely enjoy helping clients navigate tough challenges like addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, family conflict, low self-esteem, self-harm, or chronic stress. If you're looking for a safe, judgment-free space to explore your thoughts and emotions, I'm here for you. It brings me great joy to help you develop effective coping strategies, build resilience, and improve your overall well-being. Your goals might include managing mental health, improving relationships, and finding balance. Count on receiving personalized treatment plans, access to resources, and compassionate, high-quality care every step of the way.
(412) 753-7431 View (412) 753-7431
Photo of Karianne Bilsky, PhD, Psychologist
Karianne Bilsky
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317
I enjoy helping people to live in wellness and wholeness. I think the therapy relationship is critical to being able to work as a team to accomplish that. I always hope to collaborate with my clients to set therapy goals and design a plan to achieve them. My focus is on providing a therapy setting in which people can learn new skills to cope with difficulties, recover from trauma, adjust to life's challenges, and improve their functioning. I approach therapy from a cognitive-behavioral perspective but use other approaches as needed to assist clients to reach their goals.
I enjoy helping people to live in wellness and wholeness. I think the therapy relationship is critical to being able to work as a team to accomplish that. I always hope to collaborate with my clients to set therapy goals and design a plan to achieve them. My focus is on providing a therapy setting in which people can learn new skills to cope with difficulties, recover from trauma, adjust to life's challenges, and improve their functioning. I approach therapy from a cognitive-behavioral perspective but use other approaches as needed to assist clients to reach their goals.
(412) 226-5772 View (412) 226-5772
Photo of Angela Failor, MSCP, LPC, EEM-CLP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Failor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC, EEM-CLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Angela. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Clinical Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner, Owner of Shine Your Light! LLC, and Board Member of OMA Center for Mind, Body, and Spirit. I have a passion for helping people heal from the chronic effects of trauma on the mind, body, and spirit. I have a therapeutic background in domestic violence, sexual assault, and drug and alcohol counseling. I have a clinical certificate in an energy healing modality called The Eden Method. In my energy healing business, I specialize in soul and somatic healing for trauma survivors.
Hello! My name is Angela. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Clinical Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner, Owner of Shine Your Light! LLC, and Board Member of OMA Center for Mind, Body, and Spirit. I have a passion for helping people heal from the chronic effects of trauma on the mind, body, and spirit. I have a therapeutic background in domestic violence, sexual assault, and drug and alcohol counseling. I have a clinical certificate in an energy healing modality called The Eden Method. In my energy healing business, I specialize in soul and somatic healing for trauma survivors.
(412) 538-6128 View (412) 538-6128
Photo of Melissa Bazydlo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Bazydlo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Melissa Bazydlo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Philadelphia, working with patients statewide using telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in utilizing a holistic, strengths-based approach with patients to help them achieve their goals, both inside and outside of treatment.
Hello, my name is Melissa Bazydlo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Philadelphia, working with patients statewide using telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in utilizing a holistic, strengths-based approach with patients to help them achieve their goals, both inside and outside of treatment.
(717) 744-9178 View (717) 744-9178
Photo of Allison Smith, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Allison Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Washington, PA 15301  (Online Only)
Do you feel alone, down, overwhelmed, or stressed out? Maybe your life has taken a sudden turn in a direction you were not expecting. Or maybe you feel your relationship is not what it used to be, or possibly, you're wondering if you're stuck in an abusive dynamic. In a world filled with challenges, uncertainties, and moments of self-doubt, finding the right professional counselor to accompany you on your journey of self-discovery is crucial.
Do you feel alone, down, overwhelmed, or stressed out? Maybe your life has taken a sudden turn in a direction you were not expecting. Or maybe you feel your relationship is not what it used to be, or possibly, you're wondering if you're stuck in an abusive dynamic. In a world filled with challenges, uncertainties, and moments of self-doubt, finding the right professional counselor to accompany you on your journey of self-discovery is crucial.
(724) 399-3710 View (724) 399-3710

See more therapy options for McMurray

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.