Chronic Pain Therapists in Wexford, PA

Photo of Cynthia B. Kinney, MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia B. Kinney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090  (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 Megan Dufford, PsyD, Psychologist
Megan Dufford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090  (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, identity concerns, grief/loss, chronic illness, and women's issues are a sampling of concerns I find meaning in helping clients navigate.
Many find psychotherapy useful as a space to explore stressors and difficulties, learn new ways to cope with hardships, and ultimately make changes to enhance quality of life. I remain focused on providing support to each client and incorporate techniques aimed to alleviate distress, foster resilience, and help one move closer to achieving their goals. I utilize an integrative approach including person-centered, supportive, CBT, and/or psychodynamic techniques, always tailoring my style to meet each client's unique needs.
Anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, identity concerns, grief/loss, chronic illness, and women's issues are a sampling of concerns I find meaning in helping clients navigate.
Many find psychotherapy useful as a space to explore stressors and difficulties, learn new ways to cope with hardships, and ultimately make changes to enhance quality of life. I remain focused on providing support to each client and incorporate techniques aimed to alleviate distress, foster resilience, and help one move closer to achieving their goals. I utilize an integrative approach including person-centered, supportive, CBT, and/or psychodynamic techniques, always tailoring my style to meet each client's unique needs.
(412) 253-7125 View (412) 253-7125
Photo of Dr. Angela Dean, PsyD, FT, Psychologist
Dr. Angela Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, FT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
Waitlist for new clients
Drawing upon years of experience with patients and caregivers affected by chronic illness, I rely on proven methods that enable you to cope and overcome hurdles.
You miss your old, capable self. Your days are now busy with appointments, interrupted by the side effects of your disease or treatment, and flooded with emotions. Life is sometimes difficult, but chronic illness has made your circumstances even more complicated. You're so tired of feeling lost and waiting for life to return to normal. As others dismiss your concerns with well-meaning statements of hope or offers of vague promises of help, your isolation grows. Hopelessness and fear creep in. You know you need support or guidance, but figuring out who or what will be helpful feels overwhelming. Where do you even begin?
Drawing upon years of experience with patients and caregivers affected by chronic illness, I rely on proven methods that enable you to cope and overcome hurdles.
You miss your old, capable self. Your days are now busy with appointments, interrupted by the side effects of your disease or treatment, and flooded with emotions. Life is sometimes difficult, but chronic illness has made your circumstances even more complicated. You're so tired of feeling lost and waiting for life to return to normal. As others dismiss your concerns with well-meaning statements of hope or offers of vague promises of help, your isolation grows. Hopelessness and fear creep in. You know you need support or guidance, but figuring out who or what will be helpful feels overwhelming. Where do you even begin?
(724) 200-8495 View (724) 200-8495
Photo of Dr. Kimmy Fleming, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Kimmy Fleming
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
Not accepting new clients
Drawing upon years of experience with people with chronic illness, LGBTQ+ concerns, and trauma, I rely on proven methods that enable you to cope and overcome hurdles.
You aren’t sure where you fit in anymore. You feel like you aren’t good enough and your relationships aren’t the one you want. Life is sometimes difficult, but all you want is to find relief from the shame, anxiety, and feeling like you don’t belong in your family or in your community. You're so tired of this happening over and over and being panicked, stressed, and overwhelmed. As others invalidate you for who you are, your self-doubt and isolation grow. You know you need support or guidance, but figuring out who can be trusted or what will be helpful feels overwhelming. Where do you even begin?
Drawing upon years of experience with people with chronic illness, LGBTQ+ concerns, and trauma, I rely on proven methods that enable you to cope and overcome hurdles.
You aren’t sure where you fit in anymore. You feel like you aren’t good enough and your relationships aren’t the one you want. Life is sometimes difficult, but all you want is to find relief from the shame, anxiety, and feeling like you don’t belong in your family or in your community. You're so tired of this happening over and over and being panicked, stressed, and overwhelmed. As others invalidate you for who you are, your self-doubt and isolation grow. You know you need support or guidance, but figuring out who can be trusted or what will be helpful feels overwhelming. Where do you even begin?
(724) 885-2931 View (724) 885-2931
Photo of Monica L Walsh, PhD, Psychologist
Monica L Walsh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
Not accepting new clients
Not currently accepting new clients. I am a licensed clinical psychologist located in the North Hills of Pittsburgh who treats adults across the lifespan. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 25 years, working with individuals on a wide range of issues and concerns. I have particular experience working with difficulties related to anxiety, stress, and physical health (including panic attacks, generalized anxiety, OCD, coping with chronic pain and illness, coping with life transitions, sleep difficulties).
Not currently accepting new clients. I am a licensed clinical psychologist located in the North Hills of Pittsburgh who treats adults across the lifespan. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 25 years, working with individuals on a wide range of issues and concerns. I have particular experience working with difficulties related to anxiety, stress, and physical health (including panic attacks, generalized anxiety, OCD, coping with chronic pain and illness, coping with life transitions, sleep difficulties).
(412) 802-9514 View (412) 802-9514
Photo of Hannah Gilmore, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Gilmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
Whether you are coming to therapy for anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, a life change, or just a general sense of unease, facing these issues can be scary. Healing isn’t easy because it involves confronting our pain and hurts. Healing can also be full of joy, hope, connection, and freedom as we experience new possibilities of being and relating. My approach is warm, relational, and integrative. I strive to offer a space where you can feel safe enough to look inward – to gently and compassionately welcome all parts of yourself with less judgment and shame.
Whether you are coming to therapy for anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, a life change, or just a general sense of unease, facing these issues can be scary. Healing isn’t easy because it involves confronting our pain and hurts. Healing can also be full of joy, hope, connection, and freedom as we experience new possibilities of being and relating. My approach is warm, relational, and integrative. I strive to offer a space where you can feel safe enough to look inward – to gently and compassionately welcome all parts of yourself with less judgment and shame.
(724) 414-3382 View (724) 414-3382
Photo of Janessa Nowlen Lorenzo, PsyD, Psychologist
Janessa Nowlen Lorenzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
Not accepting new clients
Are you a college student, young adult, or high schooler who is feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, or depressed? I can help with processing stress related to school, work, friendships, or relationships. I'll help you address challenging situations and stressful transitions in your life by providing a space to process your thoughts and emotions, as well as learning helpful coping strategies. I also specialize in helping younger women with chronic pain or other chronic medical illnesses.
Are you a college student, young adult, or high schooler who is feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, or depressed? I can help with processing stress related to school, work, friendships, or relationships. I'll help you address challenging situations and stressful transitions in your life by providing a space to process your thoughts and emotions, as well as learning helpful coping strategies. I also specialize in helping younger women with chronic pain or other chronic medical illnesses.
(878) 216-0035 View (878) 216-0035
Photo of Megan Voll, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Voll
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
Being the parent of a child with a chronic illness or special medical need can be incredibly stressful and many parents often feel anxious, sad, or overwhelmed.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Aspire Counseling, Megan is a trusted therapist in the Wexford area who specializes in working with parents of children with chronic illness and special medical needs. She provides therapy to mothers who are anxious or who are having difficulty adjusting to their child's diagnosis, providing coping skills in a compassionate environment that allows them to navigate each day more smoothly and with confidence.
Being the parent of a child with a chronic illness or special medical need can be incredibly stressful and many parents often feel anxious, sad, or overwhelmed.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Aspire Counseling, Megan is a trusted therapist in the Wexford area who specializes in working with parents of children with chronic illness and special medical needs. She provides therapy to mothers who are anxious or who are having difficulty adjusting to their child's diagnosis, providing coping skills in a compassionate environment that allows them to navigate each day more smoothly and with confidence.
(724) 907-1044 View (724) 907-1044
Photo of Michael Schneider - New Directions Mental Health - Wexford, PsyD, Psychologist
New Directions Mental Health - Wexford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with challenges including: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from traumatic experiences; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with challenges including: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from traumatic experiences; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
(724) 436-1948 View (724) 436-1948
Photo of Elizabeth Cessna, MS, NBCCH
Elizabeth Cessna
MS, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
People receive hypnotherapy services for a variety of reasons. Typically they desire a positive change in their lives and would like to experience this change in a short period of time. While Elizabeth specializes in treating people who suffer with anxiety, she can also help those who want to alleviate:stress, fears, relationship issues, pain management, co-dependency intimacy and infertility issues. Elizabeth has been a therapist in private practice for over 25 years. She is board certified as a clinical hypnotherapist. Elizabeth practices Ericksonian Hypnotherapy because it is gentle, permissive, and respectful of the individual client.
People receive hypnotherapy services for a variety of reasons. Typically they desire a positive change in their lives and would like to experience this change in a short period of time. While Elizabeth specializes in treating people who suffer with anxiety, she can also help those who want to alleviate:stress, fears, relationship issues, pain management, co-dependency intimacy and infertility issues. Elizabeth has been a therapist in private practice for over 25 years. She is board certified as a clinical hypnotherapist. Elizabeth practices Ericksonian Hypnotherapy because it is gentle, permissive, and respectful of the individual client.
(412) 307-4975 View (412) 307-4975
Photo of Erin Donnelly, PsyD, MEd, Psychologist
Erin Donnelly
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090  (Online Only)
My practice uniquely focuses on sexuality and reproduction: relationships/sex therapy, sexual dysfunctions, pelvic pain conditions, infertility and ARTs/third party parenting (& evaluations), adoption, reproductive traumas, peri/postpartum issues, transition to parenthood and gender identity.
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
My practice uniquely focuses on sexuality and reproduction: relationships/sex therapy, sexual dysfunctions, pelvic pain conditions, infertility and ARTs/third party parenting (& evaluations), adoption, reproductive traumas, peri/postpartum issues, transition to parenthood and gender identity.
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
(913) 370-7041 View (913) 370-7041
Photo of Jenny Rozzell, CH, ACC, MEd
Jenny Rozzell
CH, ACC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
Specialties: intentional change, goals, mindfulness, grief, parenting, relationships, dating, boundaries, divorce, hypnosis, pre-marital, behavior, confidence, Life’s Purpose, Adjusting to Change, Careers, Work & Team Conflicts; as well as working with individuals navigating symptoms of Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Insomnia, Pain, Hoarding, Nail Biting, Anger, Stress.
I am a Board Certified Hypnotist and Coach with years of experience. I believe in a holistic approach,meaning that mind, body, and spirit all play into our well-being. Seeking help can feel uncomfortable not only to those who have never sought it before, but also to those who have had negative experiences. I adapt my approach to each individual’s unique situation. I strive to provide a comfortable, confidential, safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space; where you will not simply "learn coping skills", but will learn how to work through stresses and problems to facilitate long-lasting change. My goal is to help you help yourself!
Specialties: intentional change, goals, mindfulness, grief, parenting, relationships, dating, boundaries, divorce, hypnosis, pre-marital, behavior, confidence, Life’s Purpose, Adjusting to Change, Careers, Work & Team Conflicts; as well as working with individuals navigating symptoms of Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Insomnia, Pain, Hoarding, Nail Biting, Anger, Stress.
I am a Board Certified Hypnotist and Coach with years of experience. I believe in a holistic approach,meaning that mind, body, and spirit all play into our well-being. Seeking help can feel uncomfortable not only to those who have never sought it before, but also to those who have had negative experiences. I adapt my approach to each individual’s unique situation. I strive to provide a comfortable, confidential, safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space; where you will not simply "learn coping skills", but will learn how to work through stresses and problems to facilitate long-lasting change. My goal is to help you help yourself!
(724) 578-5836 View (724) 578-5836
Photo of Renya Neonorton, Pre-Licensed Professional
Renya Neonorton
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090  (Online Only)
My clients are dreaming of a better world but feel stuck in a world that is causing them great pain. They are passionate about change, both for themself and for the world around them, but might not know where or how to start. If this sounds like you, I want to offer you support in figuring out what change can even look like and how to reach towards it. I can't offer you "the answers" but I can offer you my belief in your ability to change yourself and your world, if you choose it. I view this change process as starting with self, connecting with community, and finally engaging in systems change.
My clients are dreaming of a better world but feel stuck in a world that is causing them great pain. They are passionate about change, both for themself and for the world around them, but might not know where or how to start. If this sounds like you, I want to offer you support in figuring out what change can even look like and how to reach towards it. I can't offer you "the answers" but I can offer you my belief in your ability to change yourself and your world, if you choose it. I view this change process as starting with self, connecting with community, and finally engaging in systems change.
(215) 608-5478 View (215) 608-5478
Photo of Joni Sturgill - Insight With Joni, LPC, NCC, ERYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Insight With Joni
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ERYT
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
My ideal client is someone who is looking to “find themselves” or who feels that who they are “on the outside” is different than who they are “inside.” Perhaps they're looking to find more meaning in life, personally, professionally, or both. They might not know where to start, in terms of being happier and more fulfilled, but that is their general goal. They want to grow as a person, but perhaps need help with motivation, or implementation. They're in the midst of, or foresee major life changes, and feel challenged or overwhelmed. They might need to talk, and to learn skills to help them adapt to the changes in their lives.
My ideal client is someone who is looking to “find themselves” or who feels that who they are “on the outside” is different than who they are “inside.” Perhaps they're looking to find more meaning in life, personally, professionally, or both. They might not know where to start, in terms of being happier and more fulfilled, but that is their general goal. They want to grow as a person, but perhaps need help with motivation, or implementation. They're in the midst of, or foresee major life changes, and feel challenged or overwhelmed. They might need to talk, and to learn skills to help them adapt to the changes in their lives.
(878) 348-8636 View (878) 348-8636
Photo of Wendy Wahlquist - Become YOUR Happy LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Become YOUR Happy LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
Life can be very stressful, and different things may bring someone to therapy. I provide a safe place to explore and learn, as I offer my compassion and support through your journey. I have a lot of experience with stress and/or trauma, as well as relationship issues. I tend to be gentle, compassionate, offer solutions and homework assignments, but realize deep down you have the answers, and are hard wired to heal under the right circumstances. I see primarily individuals and couples due to my schedule being strictly daytime (business hours)
Life can be very stressful, and different things may bring someone to therapy. I provide a safe place to explore and learn, as I offer my compassion and support through your journey. I have a lot of experience with stress and/or trauma, as well as relationship issues. I tend to be gentle, compassionate, offer solutions and homework assignments, but realize deep down you have the answers, and are hard wired to heal under the right circumstances. I see primarily individuals and couples due to my schedule being strictly daytime (business hours)
(412) 275-4464 View (412) 275-4464
Photo of Amy Shirey, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Shirey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
I can help you cope with multiple stressors in your life as you manage the symptoms of mood and anxiety disorders. If you are looking for guidance and support, then we would be a great match.
I can help you cope with multiple stressors in your life as you manage the symptoms of mood and anxiety disorders. If you are looking for guidance and support, then we would be a great match.
(724) 605-4437 View (724) 605-4437
Photo of Don Laird - eTalkTherapy, LLC, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
eTalkTherapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090  (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or alone? Do relationship problems have you feeling frustrated or stuck? Are you experiencing burnout or fatigue in life or at work? Maybe all the above? Our caring and professional therapists are here to help you starting today. eTalkTherapy provides affordable, private, convenient, and quality counseling from experienced and licensed mental health therapists. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, loss of meaning, relationships or just need to talk, we are here to listen. Schedule a free phone consultation or your first appointment today.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or alone? Do relationship problems have you feeling frustrated or stuck? Are you experiencing burnout or fatigue in life or at work? Maybe all the above? Our caring and professional therapists are here to help you starting today. eTalkTherapy provides affordable, private, convenient, and quality counseling from experienced and licensed mental health therapists. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, loss of meaning, relationships or just need to talk, we are here to listen. Schedule a free phone consultation or your first appointment today.
(878) 206-1994 View (878) 206-1994
Photo of Thomas Slosky, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thomas Slosky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
Thomas Slosky is a Licensed Professional Counselor who brings a unique background to his therapeutic practice, enriched by experiences in mental health, college coaching, ministry, and chaplaincy. With a personalized approach to treatment, he employs an array of strategies including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and person-centered therapy, tailoring his methods to suit the unique needs of each client. Thomas is committed to walking with clients on their journey to enhanced well-being.
Thomas Slosky is a Licensed Professional Counselor who brings a unique background to his therapeutic practice, enriched by experiences in mental health, college coaching, ministry, and chaplaincy. With a personalized approach to treatment, he employs an array of strategies including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and person-centered therapy, tailoring his methods to suit the unique needs of each client. Thomas is committed to walking with clients on their journey to enhanced well-being.
(724) 577-5216 View (724) 577-5216
Photo of Luke Kocan, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Luke Kocan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
I'm a pre-licensed mental health therapist. I've come to New Directions Mental Health from Carlow University Health & Counseling Services where I worked with students who had a variety of presenting concerns including anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, depression, personality disorders, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Prior to working at Carlow, I owned and operated a retail store in Morgantown, West Virginia which often partnered with WVU and LGBTQ+ organizations. I will be providing individual services to adults of all ages. I'm experienced in treating most areas of concern with a specialty in familial-related trauma.
I'm a pre-licensed mental health therapist. I've come to New Directions Mental Health from Carlow University Health & Counseling Services where I worked with students who had a variety of presenting concerns including anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, depression, personality disorders, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Prior to working at Carlow, I owned and operated a retail store in Morgantown, West Virginia which often partnered with WVU and LGBTQ+ organizations. I will be providing individual services to adults of all ages. I'm experienced in treating most areas of concern with a specialty in familial-related trauma.
(724) 952-2909 View (724) 952-2909
Photo of Daria Durny - Ellie Mental Health-Wexford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellie Mental Health-Wexford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
Ellie Mental Health in Wexford, Pennsylvania isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
Ellie Mental Health in Wexford, Pennsylvania isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
(412) 923-0677 View (412) 923-0677
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.