Chronic Pain Therapists in Six Mile, SC
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![Photo of Heather Kline Schaffer, PhD, MEd, LPC, NCC, ERYT500, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbad89e4-4214-4337-b810-c01a68bb6f83/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Kline Schaffer
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC, NCC, ERYT500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pickens, SC 29671
Her background is treating individuals coping with trauma, chronic pain, & terminal illness has helped her evolve successful functional medicine & counseling.
Dr. Kline Schaffer has been recognized twice in the last decade by U.S. Congressman for her work with individuals, families, and groups coping through transitions, trauma & grief. She currently takes referrals for children, adults, couples, families, and groups; she has embraced serving others in full-time private practice since 2008. She supports clients with a holistic approach utilizing the best practices of Functional & Integrative Medicine, personalizing each treatment plan & working at the individuals pace to facilitate their best life! www.fernviewcenterforwellbeing.com
Her background is treating individuals coping with trauma, chronic pain, & terminal illness has helped her evolve successful functional medicine & counseling.
Dr. Kline Schaffer has been recognized twice in the last decade by U.S. Congressman for her work with individuals, families, and groups coping through transitions, trauma & grief. She currently takes referrals for children, adults, couples, families, and groups; she has embraced serving others in full-time private practice since 2008. She supports clients with a holistic approach utilizing the best practices of Functional & Integrative Medicine, personalizing each treatment plan & working at the individuals pace to facilitate their best life! www.fernviewcenterforwellbeing.com
![Photo of Kathleen Marie May, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d1c6518-5332-4d7c-a759-13f646dacc5e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have worked in private practice in the Clemson area for over twenty years. My practice includes adults, adolescents, families, and couples. I work with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, as well as matters related to sexual orientation and gender identity. Fundamental to this is my belief that we are all individuals who affect and are affected by our families, groups of which we are a part, and the larger society. The variety of techniques I employ are all in the service of empowering my clients as they work toward healing.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have worked in private practice in the Clemson area for over twenty years. My practice includes adults, adolescents, families, and couples. I work with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, as well as matters related to sexual orientation and gender identity. Fundamental to this is my belief that we are all individuals who affect and are affected by our families, groups of which we are a part, and the larger society. The variety of techniques I employ are all in the service of empowering my clients as they work toward healing.
![Photo of Suzette Guest, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa8f32f7-b69e-45b0-9c9e-e96b10a36936/2/320x400.jpeg)
Suzette Guest
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seneca, SC 29672
Not accepting new clients
I take a whole person view in therapy by supporting individuals and couples dealing with life challenges such as: grief/loss, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and chronic pain.
I believe therapy provides the space to honor all aspects of you. As a therapist, I take a compassionate, non-judgmental stance as you explore your truth. Therapy is a time you set aside for your own personal healing and growth. A place to know you are safe, you are heard, and you have inherent worth. It is an honor for me to work with my clients as they navigate life's losses, gains, and transitions, all the while discovering their many strengths. I hope to support you in feeling authentic, empowered, and more balanced in your life.
I take a whole person view in therapy by supporting individuals and couples dealing with life challenges such as: grief/loss, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and chronic pain.
I believe therapy provides the space to honor all aspects of you. As a therapist, I take a compassionate, non-judgmental stance as you explore your truth. Therapy is a time you set aside for your own personal healing and growth. A place to know you are safe, you are heard, and you have inherent worth. It is an honor for me to work with my clients as they navigate life's losses, gains, and transitions, all the while discovering their many strengths. I hope to support you in feeling authentic, empowered, and more balanced in your life.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Michelle Smith, LPC-A, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5577a58b-c5d3-4b6c-8bd6-8ae2fa2e402c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anxious, feeling beaten down, working through wounds and loss, or just needing hope and encouragement? If this applies to you, my desire is to walk with you on your journey and advocate for you. Everyone needs a cheerleader to help hold their hope throughout life. To meet someone in their source of pain is an honor and privilege that I take seriously. You have immense value and purpose.
Anxious, feeling beaten down, working through wounds and loss, or just needing hope and encouragement? If this applies to you, my desire is to walk with you on your journey and advocate for you. Everyone needs a cheerleader to help hold their hope throughout life. To meet someone in their source of pain is an honor and privilege that I take seriously. You have immense value and purpose.
![Photo of Lauren C Kittrell, MA, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f1c2a54-bc2a-4e2c-8fc9-8be945d6b416/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you ever feel stuck? Do you ever feel weighed down by a present situation or past hurts? Perhaps you've struggled with depression, anxiety, or intrusive thoughts for years but things have gotten worse and you're ready to take that first step towards help. I consider it an honor to be allowed to sit with someone in their pain and help them find a healthy way through the pain towards healing. I am especially passionate about trauma and grief work, but see a variety of clients with differing needs. I would love to hear from you about how I might be able to help you through your current challenges.
Do you ever feel stuck? Do you ever feel weighed down by a present situation or past hurts? Perhaps you've struggled with depression, anxiety, or intrusive thoughts for years but things have gotten worse and you're ready to take that first step towards help. I consider it an honor to be allowed to sit with someone in their pain and help them find a healthy way through the pain towards healing. I am especially passionate about trauma and grief work, but see a variety of clients with differing needs. I would love to hear from you about how I might be able to help you through your current challenges.
![Photo of Denise Levereaux, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/870cca8b-4672-412a-8c28-3c6ee276dbd3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Levereaux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29301
I specialize in supporting individuals navigating the complex terrains of trauma, chronic illness, and stress. As a therapist deeply committed to your well-being, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to our sessions. I draw from a blend of EMDR, somatic psychotherapy, and dialectical behavior therapy in my work. I understand the profound impact that trauma, chronic illness, and stress can have on every facet of your life. That's why I've dedicated myself to crafting a therapeutic approach that honors your unique journey and empowers you to reclaim agency over your life.
I specialize in supporting individuals navigating the complex terrains of trauma, chronic illness, and stress. As a therapist deeply committed to your well-being, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to our sessions. I draw from a blend of EMDR, somatic psychotherapy, and dialectical behavior therapy in my work. I understand the profound impact that trauma, chronic illness, and stress can have on every facet of your life. That's why I've dedicated myself to crafting a therapeutic approach that honors your unique journey and empowers you to reclaim agency over your life.
![Photo of Rhoda L. Norton, MA, LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b98ec48-a55d-4d27-ab26-a65e5faa6ae4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rhoda L. Norton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29609
I specialize in helping you identify the source of your pain, move out of feeling stuck and obstacles to your desired goal.
Looking for a therapist can be scary when you already feel hurt, confused, stuck or hopeless. Some of the questions you may ask are; is it possible to feel better? Will this pain and confusion ever end? Can I truly heal from old wounds? The answer is a resounding yes! Lets work together to begin the process of healing, and find solutions that work best for you. You have already taken the first step!
I specialize in helping you identify the source of your pain, move out of feeling stuck and obstacles to your desired goal.
Looking for a therapist can be scary when you already feel hurt, confused, stuck or hopeless. Some of the questions you may ask are; is it possible to feel better? Will this pain and confusion ever end? Can I truly heal from old wounds? The answer is a resounding yes! Lets work together to begin the process of healing, and find solutions that work best for you. You have already taken the first step!
![Photo of Anna Dittenhauser, MEd, EdS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66c84c33-ae3e-4197-9825-7aea5da0504f/5/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Dittenhauser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, EdS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
chronic pain, postpartum, etc.
The process of change requires us to start somewhere, and it is our very first steps that consequentially reveal our true strength and ability to invest in ourselves, our well-being, and find meaning in our lives. I work with adolescent and adult clients and have been so fortunate to discover my true passion for trauma-focused care and my eclectic, authentic style. As a firm believer in the significance of both our past and present experiences, I integrate evidence-based, universal practices to promote increased self-awareness, self-compassion, and optimal self-growth. Come as you are; nothing more, and nothing less!
chronic pain, postpartum, etc.
The process of change requires us to start somewhere, and it is our very first steps that consequentially reveal our true strength and ability to invest in ourselves, our well-being, and find meaning in our lives. I work with adolescent and adult clients and have been so fortunate to discover my true passion for trauma-focused care and my eclectic, authentic style. As a firm believer in the significance of both our past and present experiences, I integrate evidence-based, universal practices to promote increased self-awareness, self-compassion, and optimal self-growth. Come as you are; nothing more, and nothing less!
![Photo of Angelica Means, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd33a974-9ea8-4dc0-8521-a1920fd5db16/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angelica Means
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29609
My other work experience includes chronic mental and physical illness, hospice, and Christian counseling.
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Is your mental health affecting your work, marriage, and friendships? I know the decision to seek counseling can be difficult, but just taking the first step toward better mental health is a step toward healing. I provide psychotherapy to individuals struggling to make sense of their emotions and who want to learn how to manage them better. I firmly believe that you have the ability and strength to make a positive life change.
My other work experience includes chronic mental and physical illness, hospice, and Christian counseling.
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Is your mental health affecting your work, marriage, and friendships? I know the decision to seek counseling can be difficult, but just taking the first step toward better mental health is a step toward healing. I provide psychotherapy to individuals struggling to make sense of their emotions and who want to learn how to manage them better. I firmly believe that you have the ability and strength to make a positive life change.
![Photo of Paige DiTommaso, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0e74db2-8623-4559-a386-cd072f43e4ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
I personally understand how difficult it can be to work through a chronic condition and or invisible illness and all that it comes with.
You have been through so much and you are dealing with a lot. It is overwhelming and life is not exactly going as planned. Mentally, physically, and emotionally, you are silently suffering because something has changed and even your closest family and friends don't get it. To make matters worse, through all of your challenges, you still have big goals! You set the bar high for yourself and are not meeting your own expectations. Maybe you are struggling with the adjustments of a medical diagnosis or a major life event and feelings of anxiety, sadness, or uncertainty have crept in. Ease, acceptance, joy, and success would be nice...
I personally understand how difficult it can be to work through a chronic condition and or invisible illness and all that it comes with.
You have been through so much and you are dealing with a lot. It is overwhelming and life is not exactly going as planned. Mentally, physically, and emotionally, you are silently suffering because something has changed and even your closest family and friends don't get it. To make matters worse, through all of your challenges, you still have big goals! You set the bar high for yourself and are not meeting your own expectations. Maybe you are struggling with the adjustments of a medical diagnosis or a major life event and feelings of anxiety, sadness, or uncertainty have crept in. Ease, acceptance, joy, and success would be nice...
![Photo of Adreaunna Coggins, MEd, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76e3c54a-c7c9-443e-8df9-bdb86508f4c2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adreaunna Coggins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29650
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals with anxiety, depression, substance use, and chronic health/pain conditions.
Anxiety is a normal part of life but too much anxiety can make us choose unhelpful coping mechanisms that prevent us from being able to function. We often feel that if anxiety would just go away, we'd feel better about our day to day lives but where does that leave us when another anxiety provoking situation or event happens? Getting control of anxiety is difficult work but it can alleviate so many of the hurdles we experience in life. As a certified hypnotherapist and licensed professional counselor, we can work together to help you use healthier coping mechanisms to be the person you want to be.
I work with individuals with anxiety, depression, substance use, and chronic health/pain conditions.
Anxiety is a normal part of life but too much anxiety can make us choose unhelpful coping mechanisms that prevent us from being able to function. We often feel that if anxiety would just go away, we'd feel better about our day to day lives but where does that leave us when another anxiety provoking situation or event happens? Getting control of anxiety is difficult work but it can alleviate so many of the hurdles we experience in life. As a certified hypnotherapist and licensed professional counselor, we can work together to help you use healthier coping mechanisms to be the person you want to be.
![Photo of Shawna Bennett, LPC, LLMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/700b69d9-efce-4d35-a507-16c3c5e65807/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shawna Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LLMFT
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29651 (Online Only)
I am licensed in Professional Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapy, and a Certified Yoga Instructor. I love working with clients who are struggling, yet motivated to make the changes needed to create a more content life. If you are feeling depressed, anxious, or experiencing conflict in your relationships - and you are confused about what your next steps might be - set up your free phone consultation today. I can help you get more clarity about what is right for you. Life and relationships are stressful and overwhelming enough, don't walk through your pain alone - let me walk with you and we will find your peace of mind together.
I am licensed in Professional Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapy, and a Certified Yoga Instructor. I love working with clients who are struggling, yet motivated to make the changes needed to create a more content life. If you are feeling depressed, anxious, or experiencing conflict in your relationships - and you are confused about what your next steps might be - set up your free phone consultation today. I can help you get more clarity about what is right for you. Life and relationships are stressful and overwhelming enough, don't walk through your pain alone - let me walk with you and we will find your peace of mind together.
![Photo of Betsy Claire Neely - Be Well Counseling, Ed S, LPC, FMCHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/471a3f9d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Be Well Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, Ed S, LPC, FMCHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spartanburg, SC 29302
Whether you are looking for a way to lessen your emotional pain or maybe you are struggling with your current mood or your lower energy level, I would be honored to partner with you on your journey towards a well life. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 plus years of experience, I have seen individuals actively move into mind and body wellness time and time again.
Whether you are looking for a way to lessen your emotional pain or maybe you are struggling with your current mood or your lower energy level, I would be honored to partner with you on your journey towards a well life. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 plus years of experience, I have seen individuals actively move into mind and body wellness time and time again.
![Photo of Susan B. Ollar, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcce33a0-e07a-43f2-bbc8-3aecd02eb388/1/320x400.png)
I have been in practice since 1988, dedicated to helping my patients to understand the causes of their problems and to regain mastery, control and well being in their lives. I have extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems including depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, chronic illness and pain management. I also specialize in the diagnosis of cognitive problems and dementias associated with Alzheimer's Disease and other disorders.
I have been in practice since 1988, dedicated to helping my patients to understand the causes of their problems and to regain mastery, control and well being in their lives. I have extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems including depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, chronic illness and pain management. I also specialize in the diagnosis of cognitive problems and dementias associated with Alzheimer's Disease and other disorders.
![Photo of Lori D Blackman, LISW-CP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78e6ccba-d561-40dc-9f93-7bbd88bbd395/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lori D Blackman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
I have many years experience working with adults and children suffering from depression, anxiety, OCD, anger issues, trauma, and abuse. I have also worked in the field of drug and alcohol addiction. After my graduate studies, my primary focus and training was working with children suffering from ADHD, ODD, depression, and anxiety. I used behavioral management coupled with parenting strategies to improve the overall parent/child relationship. I gained incredible knowledge and insight regarding chronic pain as well as grief and loss while working with the elderly population through home health care and hospice.
I have many years experience working with adults and children suffering from depression, anxiety, OCD, anger issues, trauma, and abuse. I have also worked in the field of drug and alcohol addiction. After my graduate studies, my primary focus and training was working with children suffering from ADHD, ODD, depression, and anxiety. I used behavioral management coupled with parenting strategies to improve the overall parent/child relationship. I gained incredible knowledge and insight regarding chronic pain as well as grief and loss while working with the elderly population through home health care and hospice.
![Photo of Leo J. Newman, MA, LPC-S, CH, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/255f5f4d-0d16-49b2-bd30-2aa69b8ff4ea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leo J. Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Travelers Rest, SC 29690
Living with a chronic health condition or pain can be overwhelming, scary, and confusing. At times you don't recognize yourself anymore, and you wonder what new limitations the day might bring. You know these struggles are somehow behind your depressed and anxious feelings, and you feel alone...that no one understands. Right now, you have more questions than answers, but you know you'd do anything to get your life back. The roller coaster of doctor visits, medication changes, and emotions is becoming too much and you're ready to get off the roller coaster and feel grounded again.
Living with a chronic health condition or pain can be overwhelming, scary, and confusing. At times you don't recognize yourself anymore, and you wonder what new limitations the day might bring. You know these struggles are somehow behind your depressed and anxious feelings, and you feel alone...that no one understands. Right now, you have more questions than answers, but you know you'd do anything to get your life back. The roller coaster of doctor visits, medication changes, and emotions is becoming too much and you're ready to get off the roller coaster and feel grounded again.
![Photo of Cheryl Childers, MSW, LISWCPS, LPC, RPTS, ATR-BC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a99a3a1b-e09e-4c54-b529-f0434d3c2538/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cheryl Childers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISWCPS, LPC, RPTS, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29609
As someone who has experienced past sexual & physical abuse or chronic illness, do you often wonder how to move past the overwhelming shame and pain? Have you tried everything but nothing seems to alleviate the flashbacks or unwanted memories? Do you want to understand dissociation better? Do you long to be free of anxiety depression & suicidal thoughts, longing for connection and worthiness, and to tell your story with a safe, non-judgmental person? Are you willing to examine thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and learn how to utilize your whole self, develop shame resilience—transform the way you live & love in your relationships?
As someone who has experienced past sexual & physical abuse or chronic illness, do you often wonder how to move past the overwhelming shame and pain? Have you tried everything but nothing seems to alleviate the flashbacks or unwanted memories? Do you want to understand dissociation better? Do you long to be free of anxiety depression & suicidal thoughts, longing for connection and worthiness, and to tell your story with a safe, non-judgmental person? Are you willing to examine thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and learn how to utilize your whole self, develop shame resilience—transform the way you live & love in your relationships?
![Photo of Tiffany Bartolomei, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e978a4d1-0b13-4614-b9ba-a2dcfe998e3e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Bartolomei
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Easley, SC 29642 (Online Only)
I am licensed in South Carolina and Montana and offer Teletherapy to clients in both states. I lived in Montana for 30 years and currently reside in Upstate South Carolina. Therapy can be a helpful tool to manage stress, cope with grief or loss, improve relationships, and to make sense of traumatic experiences. I utilize a trauma informed approach in my work to support clients on their journey of healing and growth. Change is truly possible in a positive therapeutic relationship where feelings, thoughts, and behaviors can be explored and understood in a safe and respectful way. I look forward to see where the journey may take us!
I am licensed in South Carolina and Montana and offer Teletherapy to clients in both states. I lived in Montana for 30 years and currently reside in Upstate South Carolina. Therapy can be a helpful tool to manage stress, cope with grief or loss, improve relationships, and to make sense of traumatic experiences. I utilize a trauma informed approach in my work to support clients on their journey of healing and growth. Change is truly possible in a positive therapeutic relationship where feelings, thoughts, and behaviors can be explored and understood in a safe and respectful way. I look forward to see where the journey may take us!
![Photo of Anna Christina Prather, MA, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82d72659-f6ab-4e90-965c-56dec42a15d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Christina Prather
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29601
Therapy is like co-authoring a story—embarking on a great journey, overcoming obstacles, noticing the softer moments, and forging a path toward hope. It's an honor to witness my clients' growth, as authenticity and well-being positively shape their world and narratives. I am committed to helping my clients bravely explore new ways toward self-compassion, authenticity, and wholeness. My work focuses on deepening relational satisfaction, creating safe and meaningful connections, and establishing healthy patterns that promote both individual and collective well-being.
Therapy is like co-authoring a story—embarking on a great journey, overcoming obstacles, noticing the softer moments, and forging a path toward hope. It's an honor to witness my clients' growth, as authenticity and well-being positively shape their world and narratives. I am committed to helping my clients bravely explore new ways toward self-compassion, authenticity, and wholeness. My work focuses on deepening relational satisfaction, creating safe and meaningful connections, and establishing healthy patterns that promote both individual and collective well-being.
![Photo of Dawn Hayes, LMFT-A, MMFT, CYT-500, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d692da26-4ee0-4219-bcfb-017226f4ddd8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dawn Hayes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A, MMFT, CYT-500
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
Waitlist for new clients
Are you wondering when the ingredients of your life and relationships became too bland or too spicy? Are you finding yourself working with the same recipe on repeat, even though it doesn’t fulfill what you are looking for? Are you and your partner feeling pulled apart by disconnection and arguments? Do you feel misunderstood at home or work? Maybe your life has changed beyond what is familiar or comfortable and you're not sure who you are today. Perhaps what was once important to you doesn’t feel as fulfilling, but identifying the missing ingredients feels challenging or foreign.
Are you wondering when the ingredients of your life and relationships became too bland or too spicy? Are you finding yourself working with the same recipe on repeat, even though it doesn’t fulfill what you are looking for? Are you and your partner feeling pulled apart by disconnection and arguments? Do you feel misunderstood at home or work? Maybe your life has changed beyond what is familiar or comfortable and you're not sure who you are today. Perhaps what was once important to you doesn’t feel as fulfilling, but identifying the missing ingredients feels challenging or foreign.
See more therapy options for Six Mile
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.