Chronic Pain Therapists in New Hope, PA

Photo of Sara Hertzel, PsyD, BCB, Psychologist
Sara Hertzel
Psychologist, PsyD, BCB
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938  (Online Only)
I approach therapy with the understanding that many of our symptoms and struggles are normal human attempts to manage pain, loss, anxiety, and even difficult or overwhelming emotions. My goal is help you find your way through these struggles and reclaim a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling to you. I will collaborate with you and set therapy goals that feel right for you in the context of your personal history and identity, and use evidence-based treatments that have been shown to be effective for anxiety and mood management, grief, trauma, and chronic pain.
I approach therapy with the understanding that many of our symptoms and struggles are normal human attempts to manage pain, loss, anxiety, and even difficult or overwhelming emotions. My goal is help you find your way through these struggles and reclaim a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling to you. I will collaborate with you and set therapy goals that feel right for you in the context of your personal history and identity, and use evidence-based treatments that have been shown to be effective for anxiety and mood management, grief, trauma, and chronic pain.
(267) 715-1819 View (267) 715-1819
Photo of Jennifer Davey, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Davey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, specializing in Integrative Health & Wellness. Incorporating both traditional psychotherapy alongside evidence-based mind-body approaches allows me to provide a comprehensive approach towards your health and healing. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, chronic pain, trauma, a significant life challenge, or just want to create a more fulfilling life for yourself, my goal as your therapist is to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to create the change and growth you desire.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, specializing in Integrative Health & Wellness. Incorporating both traditional psychotherapy alongside evidence-based mind-body approaches allows me to provide a comprehensive approach towards your health and healing. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, chronic pain, trauma, a significant life challenge, or just want to create a more fulfilling life for yourself, my goal as your therapist is to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to create the change and growth you desire.
(484) 209-2581 View (484) 209-2581
Photo of Barbara Cole-Kiernan, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Cole-Kiernan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
Are you in transition? Feeling stuck in your life or relationship? Have your usual coping strategies become ineffective, leaving you feeling anxious, fearful, depressed or angry? Do you feel that there must be more to life than what you are presently experiencing? Are you experiencing emotional upheaval that is impacting the quality of your life as a result of critical or chronic illness ?
Are you in transition? Feeling stuck in your life or relationship? Have your usual coping strategies become ineffective, leaving you feeling anxious, fearful, depressed or angry? Do you feel that there must be more to life than what you are presently experiencing? Are you experiencing emotional upheaval that is impacting the quality of your life as a result of critical or chronic illness ?
(609) 643-4498 View (609) 643-4498
Photo of Daniel J Leichter, PsyD, Psychologist
Daniel J Leichter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
I work with individuals, families, and couples and have specialized clinical expertise in the treatment of anxiety and depression, adolescent issues, life transition adjustment, grief and loss, emotional intelligence, and pain management.
It is truly a privilege to be invited into the lives of others during a therapy session. As a licensed clinical psychologist, my philosophy of psychological treatment is based upon an empathic and compassionate therapeutic rapport which I consider the primary vehicle to interpersonal understanding, change and healing. I utilize a multi-modal approach grounded in psychodynamic theory and cognitive behavioral technique.
I work with individuals, families, and couples and have specialized clinical expertise in the treatment of anxiety and depression, adolescent issues, life transition adjustment, grief and loss, emotional intelligence, and pain management.
It is truly a privilege to be invited into the lives of others during a therapy session. As a licensed clinical psychologist, my philosophy of psychological treatment is based upon an empathic and compassionate therapeutic rapport which I consider the primary vehicle to interpersonal understanding, change and healing. I utilize a multi-modal approach grounded in psychodynamic theory and cognitive behavioral technique.
(610) 915-8560 View (610) 915-8560
Photo of Kevin Drab, LPC, CAADC, CEMDRT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kevin Drab
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, CEMDRT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
While I work with many types of problems and specific individual needs, I specialize in the treatment of trauma (which includes PTSD from single traumatic experiences, as well as complex trauma from childhood experiences), sleep/insomnia difficulties, the various forms of anxiety, grief, hopelessness, suicide, and chronic pain/illness.
Finding a caring, dedicated therapist to help you with your psychological or physical difficulties is important. Sessions are 1 to 2 hours, as determined by what you want and need. Some specialized sessions, e.g. EMDR, are 1 1/2 hours. Your time and energy are valuable, and while there are times when talking is helpful, I am always results-focused using effective collaborative actions and solutions that will help you resolve your problem(s). Please consult my website at KevinDrab.com to learn more about myself and my philosophy and therapeutic approaches. I do not take insurance, but provide receipts for insurance reimbursement.
While I work with many types of problems and specific individual needs, I specialize in the treatment of trauma (which includes PTSD from single traumatic experiences, as well as complex trauma from childhood experiences), sleep/insomnia difficulties, the various forms of anxiety, grief, hopelessness, suicide, and chronic pain/illness.
Finding a caring, dedicated therapist to help you with your psychological or physical difficulties is important. Sessions are 1 to 2 hours, as determined by what you want and need. Some specialized sessions, e.g. EMDR, are 1 1/2 hours. Your time and energy are valuable, and while there are times when talking is helpful, I am always results-focused using effective collaborative actions and solutions that will help you resolve your problem(s). Please consult my website at KevinDrab.com to learn more about myself and my philosophy and therapeutic approaches. I do not take insurance, but provide receipts for insurance reimbursement.
(215) 798-0627 View (215) 798-0627
Photo of Kelly Reed, LCSW, CCTP, ALC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, ALC
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
Not accepting new clients
Through the benefits of Holistic Integrated Psychotherapy, you will reduce stress, develop new skills to respond to pain, balance physical/emotional symptoms, heal from traumas, release habits that no longer serve you, resolve grief/loss, establish healthy relationships with yourself and others, and achieve greater well-being.
Are you interested in a Holistic and Integrative approach to Psychotherapy and how it can help you heal and grow? Perhaps you are searching for relief from life's stressors or from the overwhelming moods, emotions, and behaviors that result. And perhaps you are seeking healing of mind, body, and spirit, or you feel a deep sense that there is more to life than how you are living and are looking for a new way of thinking and being in the world. Through my unique approach to psychotherapy, I will assist you in finding and actualizing the healing you are searching for.
Through the benefits of Holistic Integrated Psychotherapy, you will reduce stress, develop new skills to respond to pain, balance physical/emotional symptoms, heal from traumas, release habits that no longer serve you, resolve grief/loss, establish healthy relationships with yourself and others, and achieve greater well-being.
Are you interested in a Holistic and Integrative approach to Psychotherapy and how it can help you heal and grow? Perhaps you are searching for relief from life's stressors or from the overwhelming moods, emotions, and behaviors that result. And perhaps you are seeking healing of mind, body, and spirit, or you feel a deep sense that there is more to life than how you are living and are looking for a new way of thinking and being in the world. Through my unique approach to psychotherapy, I will assist you in finding and actualizing the healing you are searching for.
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Photo of Christine J. Markow, MS, PhD, CBTcert, Covid19, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christine J. Markow
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PhD, CBTcert, Covid19
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
With 23 years of clinical experience in pediatric and adult clinical medical psychology, I value addressing psychological wellness through a comprehensive systems approach. My therapeutic training is based in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).I believe each client plays an active role in their customized treatment to address their concerns, expand insight and achieve desired goals. I have specialized training in anxiety and depressive disorders, cyber bullying, chronic pain, stress, eating disorders, transitions associated with divorce, GI disorders & behavioral modification. For more information go to www.drchristinemarkow.com
With 23 years of clinical experience in pediatric and adult clinical medical psychology, I value addressing psychological wellness through a comprehensive systems approach. My therapeutic training is based in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).I believe each client plays an active role in their customized treatment to address their concerns, expand insight and achieve desired goals. I have specialized training in anxiety and depressive disorders, cyber bullying, chronic pain, stress, eating disorders, transitions associated with divorce, GI disorders & behavioral modification. For more information go to www.drchristinemarkow.com
(215) 867-8928 View (215) 867-8928
Photo of Susan Sklaroff-Van Hook, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Sklaroff-Van Hook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
As a therapist and a social justice advocate, I have experience with a diverse client-base, including those who have experienced marginalization due to chronic illness, disability, ageism, minority religious/spiritual orientations and LGBTQ+ identity.
I am a licensed professional counselor and trauma-informed therapist trained in mindfulness self-compassion who works collaboratively with clients to help them make the lasting changes they seek. I create a safe, trusting, and supportive environment so you can feel less isolated and more connected and understood. This becomes the foundation on which we work to help you build your self-awareness and develop the tools to improve the quality of your life. My goal is to help you take what you learn in the therapy setting out into the life you inhabit.
As a therapist and a social justice advocate, I have experience with a diverse client-base, including those who have experienced marginalization due to chronic illness, disability, ageism, minority religious/spiritual orientations and LGBTQ+ identity.
I am a licensed professional counselor and trauma-informed therapist trained in mindfulness self-compassion who works collaboratively with clients to help them make the lasting changes they seek. I create a safe, trusting, and supportive environment so you can feel less isolated and more connected and understood. This becomes the foundation on which we work to help you build your self-awareness and develop the tools to improve the quality of your life. My goal is to help you take what you learn in the therapy setting out into the life you inhabit.
(610) 510-8972 View (610) 510-8972
Photo of Christopher J. Pittelli, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher J. Pittelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
I meet you where you are in your pain and distress to move through the stuck points in your life that hinder your growth and stifle your spirit.
Deciding to call a therapist and reach out for support with life's challenges requires courage and a leap of faith in your self. Your desire to end your suffering is where this healing journey begins. Your call or email is the first step. If you are reading this, the time is now. I understand the human condition, the trepidation about going to therapy and the place you are in life right now. I am here for you. Know that aside from decades of professional training as a therapist, I have also been a client for my own personal growth and healing.
I meet you where you are in your pain and distress to move through the stuck points in your life that hinder your growth and stifle your spirit.
Deciding to call a therapist and reach out for support with life's challenges requires courage and a leap of faith in your self. Your desire to end your suffering is where this healing journey begins. Your call or email is the first step. If you are reading this, the time is now. I understand the human condition, the trepidation about going to therapy and the place you are in life right now. I am here for you. Know that aside from decades of professional training as a therapist, I have also been a client for my own personal growth and healing.
(267) 282-6084 View (267) 282-6084
Photo of Debra P Troy, ACH, BCR, MSc
Debra P Troy
ACH, BCR, MSc
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
Do you suspect you have subconscious blocks that create negative thinking, self sabotage or harmful habits? I help you heal the cause of unwanted saboteurs wreaking havoc in your life. We use Applied Kinesiology to Reveal trapped emotions, from past dramas or traumas stuck in the body/ mind, Remove them with EFT Tapping & Hypnosis and Reprogram Brain and Body with “Future Paced Sensory Imagery.” This creates new brain neural pathways that support you to feel strong, healthy and in charge of your daily life decisions and actions. My work, "Heal the Cause Self Mastery" helps people free themselves to love, accept and BE themselves.
Do you suspect you have subconscious blocks that create negative thinking, self sabotage or harmful habits? I help you heal the cause of unwanted saboteurs wreaking havoc in your life. We use Applied Kinesiology to Reveal trapped emotions, from past dramas or traumas stuck in the body/ mind, Remove them with EFT Tapping & Hypnosis and Reprogram Brain and Body with “Future Paced Sensory Imagery.” This creates new brain neural pathways that support you to feel strong, healthy and in charge of your daily life decisions and actions. My work, "Heal the Cause Self Mastery" helps people free themselves to love, accept and BE themselves.
(609) 357-1840 View (609) 357-1840
Photo of Veronica Haggerty, MA, RN, MFT
Veronica Haggerty
MA, RN, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
Are you in crisis? Do you feel stuck? I work with many people who feel this way and have helped them to understand and embrace their experiences. As a marriage and family therapist, I can help you figure things out. I will work with you to explore the stresses in your life and sort out what makes you feel happy and fulfilled. You owe this to yourself and the people who care about you to act now. Most people wait 7 years to seek help. Don't be that person. www.NewHopeForYourRelationships.com
Are you in crisis? Do you feel stuck? I work with many people who feel this way and have helped them to understand and embrace their experiences. As a marriage and family therapist, I can help you figure things out. I will work with you to explore the stresses in your life and sort out what makes you feel happy and fulfilled. You owe this to yourself and the people who care about you to act now. Most people wait 7 years to seek help. Don't be that person. www.NewHopeForYourRelationships.com
(267) 436-7589 View (267) 436-7589
Photo of Vivian Francesco - Vivian Francesco Psychology, MS, MEd, CST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vivian Francesco Psychology
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, CST
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
Do you struggle with persistent patterns that block achievement of personal goals, happiness and growth leaving you feeling "stuck"? I can help you change these patterns bringing clarity and direction. I am a licensed Professional Counselor and Advanced Certified Schema Therapist. You will gain understanding of the origins of these frustrating patterns so that you can handle life's triggers with confidence and empowerment enabling you to make positive changes and create a healthier life consisting of improved relationships and self worth.My goal is to put you back in touch with your "core emotional needs" and get them met.
Do you struggle with persistent patterns that block achievement of personal goals, happiness and growth leaving you feeling "stuck"? I can help you change these patterns bringing clarity and direction. I am a licensed Professional Counselor and Advanced Certified Schema Therapist. You will gain understanding of the origins of these frustrating patterns so that you can handle life's triggers with confidence and empowerment enabling you to make positive changes and create a healthier life consisting of improved relationships and self worth.My goal is to put you back in touch with your "core emotional needs" and get them met.
(215) 862-0363 View (215) 862-0363
Photo of Dr. Jonathan J Tomlin, EdD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jonathan J Tomlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Dr. Tomlin, and I am a licensed and nationally certified professional counselor and traumatologist. I specialize in various modalities, including strength-based coaching, existentialism, multicultural awareness, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I am passionate about helping others achieve social, emotional, and behavioral improvements and providing them with the fundamental tools to overcome life struggles so they can prosper. Life is full of obstacles and difficult circumstances, which can feel overwhelming and all-consuming.
Hello! My name is Dr. Tomlin, and I am a licensed and nationally certified professional counselor and traumatologist. I specialize in various modalities, including strength-based coaching, existentialism, multicultural awareness, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I am passionate about helping others achieve social, emotional, and behavioral improvements and providing them with the fundamental tools to overcome life struggles so they can prosper. Life is full of obstacles and difficult circumstances, which can feel overwhelming and all-consuming.
(215) 484-3421 View (215) 484-3421
Photo of Stephanie Sawa-Vassallo - Stephanie Vassallo, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Vassallo, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938  (Online Only)
I am PA/NJ licensed clinical social worker with over 20 yrs experience. I received my BA in Psychology in 1994 and my MSW in 1997. Since then, I have worked in various settings including the Behavioral Health System of Philadelphia, numerous behavioral health facilities which include psychiatric units, detox and rehabs, college counseling settings and in assisted living/nursing facilities with older adults. In 2013, I started an in person private practice and then made the jump to telehealth during the pandemic. I find that telehealth is much more accessible and convenient for clients as we are still able to do amazing work!
I am PA/NJ licensed clinical social worker with over 20 yrs experience. I received my BA in Psychology in 1994 and my MSW in 1997. Since then, I have worked in various settings including the Behavioral Health System of Philadelphia, numerous behavioral health facilities which include psychiatric units, detox and rehabs, college counseling settings and in assisted living/nursing facilities with older adults. In 2013, I started an in person private practice and then made the jump to telehealth during the pandemic. I find that telehealth is much more accessible and convenient for clients as we are still able to do amazing work!
(215) 782-6299 View (215) 782-6299
Photo of Candace L Pedicord - Spirited Life Coaching, MS, CHT, Coach, Ministe
Spirited Life Coaching
MS, CHT, Coach, Ministe
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
Personal peace starts with a shift in perspective. There is nothing wrong with you. Your life is designed to help you, not block you, in developing confidence, loving boundaries and an open heart. Our work, including elements of forgiveness, grief and personal empowerment, gives you permission to have compassion and support for yourself first, no matter what messages the world and your childhood have trained you to believe. Life happens FOR us, not TO us. I do understand, I have tools to help and I am committed to your peace of mind.
Personal peace starts with a shift in perspective. There is nothing wrong with you. Your life is designed to help you, not block you, in developing confidence, loving boundaries and an open heart. Our work, including elements of forgiveness, grief and personal empowerment, gives you permission to have compassion and support for yourself first, no matter what messages the world and your childhood have trained you to believe. Life happens FOR us, not TO us. I do understand, I have tools to help and I am committed to your peace of mind.
(215) 559-9722 View (215) 559-9722
Photo of Kathryn Merriwether Shipley, PhD, Psychologist
Kathryn Merriwether Shipley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
Everyone's journey in life is different, but invariably along the way we encounter some bumps in the road, or sometimes it seems they are more like mountains. Whatever has led you to seek help today, know that you are making a good decision by taking the first step toward finding a solution. My approach to therapy is individualized, with an emphasis on each person's unique needs and strengths. I believe the therapeutic relationship is one of the crucial elements to your success. It is through this collaboration that we can find solutions and restore balance to your life.
Everyone's journey in life is different, but invariably along the way we encounter some bumps in the road, or sometimes it seems they are more like mountains. Whatever has led you to seek help today, know that you are making a good decision by taking the first step toward finding a solution. My approach to therapy is individualized, with an emphasis on each person's unique needs and strengths. I believe the therapeutic relationship is one of the crucial elements to your success. It is through this collaboration that we can find solutions and restore balance to your life.
(267) 415-8937 View (267) 415-8937
Photo of Craig L Haft, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Craig L Haft
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
"Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I'll meet you there." -Rumi.... This is the spirit of "mindful psychotherapy" which meets the client where he or she is. My aim is to promote healing with an eclectic approach to treatment within an environment of compassionate "presence". By building strong, safe and trusting therapeutic relationship and applying a treatment strategy appropriate for the given client, significant healing change can manifest.
"Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I'll meet you there." -Rumi.... This is the spirit of "mindful psychotherapy" which meets the client where he or she is. My aim is to promote healing with an eclectic approach to treatment within an environment of compassionate "presence". By building strong, safe and trusting therapeutic relationship and applying a treatment strategy appropriate for the given client, significant healing change can manifest.
(609) 879-0758 View (609) 879-0758
Photo of Barbara Elaine Kuti, BSN, EdS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara Elaine Kuti
Licensed Professional Counselor, BSN, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
Supportive Solutions is a group practice located in Mercer County, NJ. Conveniently located in Ewing, we are experienced professionals dedicated to helping you improve the quality of your life. Barbara Kuti Specializes in couples & family therapy, LGBT issues and counseling for those with chronic and life-threatening illnesses.
Supportive Solutions is a group practice located in Mercer County, NJ. Conveniently located in Ewing, we are experienced professionals dedicated to helping you improve the quality of your life. Barbara Kuti Specializes in couples & family therapy, LGBT issues and counseling for those with chronic and life-threatening illnesses.
(609) 372-5475 View (609) 372-5475
Photo of Shanel Santucci, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shanel Santucci
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
I am here to help you become the best version of yourself. I have always been attracted to a holistic approach to counseling that includes brain health, nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, and overall wellness. Along with talk therapy, I also utilize Neurofeedback training to help stabilize brainwaves. Neurofeedback Therapy is a non-invasive/non-drug based form of treatment that facilitates desired functions and mental states. Self-regulation is key in improving daily stressors, quality of life, and a positive well being. I am rewarded by seeing my clients' efforts to grow and achieve their goals.
I am here to help you become the best version of yourself. I have always been attracted to a holistic approach to counseling that includes brain health, nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, and overall wellness. Along with talk therapy, I also utilize Neurofeedback training to help stabilize brainwaves. Neurofeedback Therapy is a non-invasive/non-drug based form of treatment that facilitates desired functions and mental states. Self-regulation is key in improving daily stressors, quality of life, and a positive well being. I am rewarded by seeing my clients' efforts to grow and achieve their goals.
(267) 753-7010 View (267) 753-7010
Photo of Celestia Patience, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Celestia Patience
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938  (Online Only)
My name is Celestia (she/they), and I am a systemically trained Couples and Family Therapist (MFT) working with individuals, families, and intimate relationships, of all structures. I believe therapy should be a collaborative experience, and it is my responsibility within that bond to meet the client(s) where they are. As a trauma-informed therapist, my understanding of our current climate is crucial in our work together; addressing the ways in which society marginalizes us for race, ability, sexuality, body size, class, and gender identity are crucial in working through the human experience.
My name is Celestia (she/they), and I am a systemically trained Couples and Family Therapist (MFT) working with individuals, families, and intimate relationships, of all structures. I believe therapy should be a collaborative experience, and it is my responsibility within that bond to meet the client(s) where they are. As a trauma-informed therapist, my understanding of our current climate is crucial in our work together; addressing the ways in which society marginalizes us for race, ability, sexuality, body size, class, and gender identity are crucial in working through the human experience.
(267) 762-2262 View (267) 762-2262
1
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.