Chronic Pain Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Remy Garland, Pre-Licensed Professional
Remy Garland
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
My passion lies in providing inclusive, comprehensive, and accessible care. I believe that healing work is social justice work. My practice has a strong focus on LGBTQIA folks, social justice oriented community members, misfits, outsiders, and alternative relationship styles (including poly and kink aligned). I love to work with my non-binary and transgender communities to thrive and navigate all of life’s transitions. I support clients living with chronic pain and illness (currently respecting the energy you are using right now to look for a therapist!).
My passion lies in providing inclusive, comprehensive, and accessible care. I believe that healing work is social justice work. My practice has a strong focus on LGBTQIA folks, social justice oriented community members, misfits, outsiders, and alternative relationship styles (including poly and kink aligned). I love to work with my non-binary and transgender communities to thrive and navigate all of life’s transitions. I support clients living with chronic pain and illness (currently respecting the energy you are using right now to look for a therapist!).
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Photo of Sheri Goldstrohm, PsyD, Psychologist
Sheri Goldstrohm
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Dr. Sheri Goldstrohm has over 25 years of experience providing psychological services in diverse settings and across the age spectrum. She has experience in health psychology; crisis management and Critical Incident Stress Management; community mental health; integrated care; death, dying and bereavement; and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). Dr. Goldstrohm's areas of clinical expertise include women's issues, behavioral pain management, integrated care with a focus on maximizing health and wellness for individuals with chronic health conditions, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and life transitions.
Dr. Sheri Goldstrohm has over 25 years of experience providing psychological services in diverse settings and across the age spectrum. She has experience in health psychology; crisis management and Critical Incident Stress Management; community mental health; integrated care; death, dying and bereavement; and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). Dr. Goldstrohm's areas of clinical expertise include women's issues, behavioral pain management, integrated care with a focus on maximizing health and wellness for individuals with chronic health conditions, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and life transitions.
(412) 212-0469 View (412) 212-0469
Photo of Kimberly June, LCSW, LMT, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly June
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMT, CST
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
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 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
Pittsburgh, PA 15243
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 Cynthia B. Kinney, MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia B. Kinney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15202  (Online Only)
Life during these times can be overwhelming. Multiple issues build up inside of us and can become compounded. We hold all of these stresses in our body and it is easy to feel anxious, depressed, sick and unhappy. I have extensive training and experience working with stress related issues, particularly work and family overload, chronic pain and illness, aging, dealing with the effects of Alzheimer's disease, and grief. I will help you to develop your inner strength and spirituality. We will explore your thoughts and feelings to solve your life problems and to use these skills so that you heal and thrive.
Life during these times can be overwhelming. Multiple issues build up inside of us and can become compounded. We hold all of these stresses in our body and it is easy to feel anxious, depressed, sick and unhappy. I have extensive training and experience working with stress related issues, particularly work and family overload, chronic pain and illness, aging, dealing with the effects of Alzheimer's disease, and grief. I will help you to develop your inner strength and spirituality. We will explore your thoughts and feelings to solve your life problems and to use these skills so that you heal and thrive.
(412) 455-7257 View (412) 455-7257
Photo of Sara Hertzel, PsyD, BCB, Psychologist
Sara Hertzel
Psychologist, PsyD, BCB
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15260  (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 Alexandra Chadderdon, PsyD, Psychologist
Alexandra Chadderdon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I specialize in treating chronic pain and chronic illness. When working with clients with chronic pain and/or chronic illness, I focus on the concept of functional restoration. This means helping clients get back to doing the things that are most important to them and spending time with their loved ones. I use techniques that include activity pacing, relaxation exercises, hypnosis for pain control, and values clarification to help clients create a new and fulfilling life for themselves, even in the midst of pain and illness. I work collaboratively with clients to develop healthier coping strategies, and provide candid feedback.
I specialize in treating chronic pain and chronic illness. When working with clients with chronic pain and/or chronic illness, I focus on the concept of functional restoration. This means helping clients get back to doing the things that are most important to them and spending time with their loved ones. I use techniques that include activity pacing, relaxation exercises, hypnosis for pain control, and values clarification to help clients create a new and fulfilling life for themselves, even in the midst of pain and illness. I work collaboratively with clients to develop healthier coping strategies, and provide candid feedback.
(484) 897-7461 View (484) 897-7461
Photo of Jan Lorraine Lee - Jan Lee Hypnosis, RN
Jan Lee Hypnosis
RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
My clients sometimes don't know what else to do. They may have tried traditional interventions. They have anxiety, grief, pain, phobias, addictions, eating disorders. They may have heard about hypnosis but aren't sure what it is. They may be LGBTQ & find a society that won't embrace who they are. Most often, my clients feels lost, out of sync and want to feel better, think better and live better. They want to know how to take this tool of Hypnosis out of their "toolbox" & use it for life. They believe in mind over matter. They have the courage to ask for help.
My clients sometimes don't know what else to do. They may have tried traditional interventions. They have anxiety, grief, pain, phobias, addictions, eating disorders. They may have heard about hypnosis but aren't sure what it is. They may be LGBTQ & find a society that won't embrace who they are. Most often, my clients feels lost, out of sync and want to feel better, think better and live better. They want to know how to take this tool of Hypnosis out of their "toolbox" & use it for life. They believe in mind over matter. They have the courage to ask for help.
(878) 216-0080 View (878) 216-0080
Photo of Amy Gamble-Moore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Gamble-Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
With over 17 years of experience in psychotherapy, I specialize in treating issues related to trauma, spiritual & religious abuse, chronic illness/pain, eating disorders and grief & loss.
Have you been feeling lonely, disconnected or not like yourself? Maybe there are issues from the past that you haven't dealt with that you would like to heal without feeling overwhelmed. Possibly you feel swept away by your emotions and don't know how to get them under control. Perhaps you are feeling stuck, frustrated or tired. Oftentimes these issues can lead to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. My specialty is in helping you identify & address the root issues, develop the skills to deal with those issues, while getting in better relationship with yourself.
With over 17 years of experience in psychotherapy, I specialize in treating issues related to trauma, spiritual & religious abuse, chronic illness/pain, eating disorders and grief & loss.
Have you been feeling lonely, disconnected or not like yourself? Maybe there are issues from the past that you haven't dealt with that you would like to heal without feeling overwhelmed. Possibly you feel swept away by your emotions and don't know how to get them under control. Perhaps you are feeling stuck, frustrated or tired. Oftentimes these issues can lead to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. My specialty is in helping you identify & address the root issues, develop the skills to deal with those issues, while getting in better relationship with yourself.
(412) 285-1402 View (412) 285-1402
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
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
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 Alicia Bisaha, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Bisaha
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I work with people who have experienced issues with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, pain, and relationships .
Is depression or anxiety keeping you from fully enjoying your life? Would you like to improve your relationships with family, friends, or others? Do you feel stressed or stuck? People seek therapy for many different reasons. Whatever the reason, it should be a life enhancing experience. I have assisted many individuals and families with these and other life issues and would like to help you!
I work with people who have experienced issues with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, pain, and relationships .
Is depression or anxiety keeping you from fully enjoying your life? Would you like to improve your relationships with family, friends, or others? Do you feel stressed or stuck? People seek therapy for many different reasons. Whatever the reason, it should be a life enhancing experience. I have assisted many individuals and families with these and other life issues and would like to help you!
(412) 228-0727 View (412) 228-0727
Photo of Carter Cunningham, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carter Cunningham
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15216
While I am excited to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, I have a special interest in supporting those who experience chronic conditions such as pain, grief, cancer, psychosis, and trauma.
I am passionate about helping individuals on their path to self-discovery and leading a genuine and authentic life. Drawing upon my background in counseling and neuroscience, I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and existentialism into my approach. I aim to help individuals cultivate openness, awareness, and engagement with themselves, their loved ones, and the world around them. By incorporating meditation, relevant literature, art, and nature, I aim to create a holistic therapeutic experience. These elements enrich the exploration of subjective experiences, self-perception, and the profound aspects of existence.
While I am excited to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, I have a special interest in supporting those who experience chronic conditions such as pain, grief, cancer, psychosis, and trauma.
I am passionate about helping individuals on their path to self-discovery and leading a genuine and authentic life. Drawing upon my background in counseling and neuroscience, I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and existentialism into my approach. I aim to help individuals cultivate openness, awareness, and engagement with themselves, their loved ones, and the world around them. By incorporating meditation, relevant literature, art, and nature, I aim to create a holistic therapeutic experience. These elements enrich the exploration of subjective experiences, self-perception, and the profound aspects of existence.
(412) 960-1185 View (412) 960-1185
Photo of Nancy L. Ritsko, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy L. Ritsko
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
I can be of help to you if you have any of the following issues: intrapersonal; relationships; communication; establishing and maintaining boundaries; emotional support; self-esteem; management of anger; living within your financial means; addictions; grief and loss; chronic pain; peace of mind. In 1976, I began my career in counseling as a school counselor and have a good track record with individuals of all ages. As a "seasoned" counselor (read "older"), I have helped individuals, couples, and families successfully navigate the issues that contribute to their pain and distress. You and I will work together as a team.
I can be of help to you if you have any of the following issues: intrapersonal; relationships; communication; establishing and maintaining boundaries; emotional support; self-esteem; management of anger; living within your financial means; addictions; grief and loss; chronic pain; peace of mind. In 1976, I began my career in counseling as a school counselor and have a good track record with individuals of all ages. As a "seasoned" counselor (read "older"), I have helped individuals, couples, and families successfully navigate the issues that contribute to their pain and distress. You and I will work together as a team.
(814) 258-4544 View (814) 258-4544
Photo of Megan Zurasky, MSCP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Zurasky
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15226
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
(412) 838-4052 View (412) 838-4052
Photo of Clara H Gautier, PhD, Psychologist
Clara H Gautier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
I am a clinical psychologist experienced in addressing anxiety, stress, depression, self esteem, relationship issues, adjustment to life changes, social isolation, trauma and PTSD, coping with pain and illnesses, and other challenges.
My aim is to form a supportive, accepting, and respectful relationship as the foundation for change. Through the development of new outlooks and skills, therapy can help us to get out of ruts, suffer less, enjoy more, and find life more satisfying.
I am a clinical psychologist experienced in addressing anxiety, stress, depression, self esteem, relationship issues, adjustment to life changes, social isolation, trauma and PTSD, coping with pain and illnesses, and other challenges.
My aim is to form a supportive, accepting, and respectful relationship as the foundation for change. Through the development of new outlooks and skills, therapy can help us to get out of ruts, suffer less, enjoy more, and find life more satisfying.
(412) 228-0706 View (412) 228-0706
Photo of Dr. Spiegel Freedman - Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates, Psychologist
Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
In our collective expertise and collaborative efforts, we provide psychological care for those who are struggling with: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Marital Issues, Family Conflict, Sleep Disturbance, Grief and Loss, Abuse Issues, Chronic Illness, Dementia, Gender Identity Issues, Women's Issues, Men's Issues.
The clinicians of Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates provide outpatient psychotherapeutic care to the people of the greater Pittsburgh area. We are committed to excellence and strive to provide our community with the highest quality of psychological services. We combine professional expertise with personal compassion in our therapeutic care. Our diverse staff and associates offer psychological evaluation and care for children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples and families.
In our collective expertise and collaborative efforts, we provide psychological care for those who are struggling with: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Marital Issues, Family Conflict, Sleep Disturbance, Grief and Loss, Abuse Issues, Chronic Illness, Dementia, Gender Identity Issues, Women's Issues, Men's Issues.
The clinicians of Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates provide outpatient psychotherapeutic care to the people of the greater Pittsburgh area. We are committed to excellence and strive to provide our community with the highest quality of psychological services. We combine professional expertise with personal compassion in our therapeutic care. Our diverse staff and associates offer psychological evaluation and care for children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples and families.
(412) 307-5806 x1 View (412) 307-5806 x1
Photo of Delilah Miller
Delilah Miller
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15202  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationships, career counseling, chronic pain, emotional disturbance and self-esteem.
Welcome to my practice! Here you will find a unique approach and perspective to healing trauma, finding direction, and experiencing a shift in your life. This approach and perspective embodies love, light, creativity, and perfection as YOU! My approach and work is born from years of deep emotional trauma and a process of intricate healing involving body, soul and spirit.
I specialize in treating trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationships, career counseling, chronic pain, emotional disturbance and self-esteem.
Welcome to my practice! Here you will find a unique approach and perspective to healing trauma, finding direction, and experiencing a shift in your life. This approach and perspective embodies love, light, creativity, and perfection as YOU! My approach and work is born from years of deep emotional trauma and a process of intricate healing involving body, soul and spirit.
(412) 790-2852 View (412) 790-2852
Photo of David Gresko, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Gresko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
My goal in working with you is to instill a sense of hope and give you a vision for the future, even in the midst of the pain and difficulty we all experience in life.
I look at each client as a unique individual who requires tailor made and personal treatment. This means that each person I work with receives individualized treatment designed specifically for them and their unique circumstances and history. Currently, I am seeing adult and teenage clients (ages 14+) for individual therapy. My primary areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Obsessions and Compulsions, Guilt, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Life Coaching, Career Counseling, Vocational Discernment, and Christian Counseling.
My goal in working with you is to instill a sense of hope and give you a vision for the future, even in the midst of the pain and difficulty we all experience in life.
I look at each client as a unique individual who requires tailor made and personal treatment. This means that each person I work with receives individualized treatment designed specifically for them and their unique circumstances and history. Currently, I am seeing adult and teenage clients (ages 14+) for individual therapy. My primary areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Obsessions and Compulsions, Guilt, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Life Coaching, Career Counseling, Vocational Discernment, and Christian Counseling.
(412) 385-6997 View (412) 385-6997
Photo of Katherine Hammond Holtz, PsyD, Psychologist
Katherine Hammond Holtz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
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.
(412) 593-2307 View (412) 593-2307
Photo of Spencer Kilpatrick, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Spencer Kilpatrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235  (Online Only)
Connection to ourselves and others makes us feel whole. Ask yourself now, "Where are my people", "where do I feel as though I am authentically me"? Because mental un-health (our depressions, our anxieties) comes when we are disconnected from those spaces and people. Many factors can disconnect us: death, loss, transition, trauma, heartbreak, stress, abuse, illness, etc. I work with clients across diverse contexts to find reconnection and wholeness despite these disconnectors.
Connection to ourselves and others makes us feel whole. Ask yourself now, "Where are my people", "where do I feel as though I am authentically me"? Because mental un-health (our depressions, our anxieties) comes when we are disconnected from those spaces and people. Many factors can disconnect us: death, loss, transition, trauma, heartbreak, stress, abuse, illness, etc. I work with clients across diverse contexts to find reconnection and wholeness despite these disconnectors.
(724) 246-6657 View (724) 246-6657
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.