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Online Therapists

Photo of Leslie Ann Binch, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie Ann Binch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
Talk therapy is not enough. My approach to therapy focuses on combining cognitive and somatic therapies to strengthen connection to self, and reduce the blocks to healing. The goal is to connect to your authenticity, and have the freedom to find positive and affirming ways to enjoy relationships with self and others. The goal is to experience life without shutting down or disconnecting, and/or using destructive behaviors to reduce pain and distress. Attaining the freedom to choose what you want for yourself, begins with taking the first step.
Talk therapy is not enough. My approach to therapy focuses on combining cognitive and somatic therapies to strengthen connection to self, and reduce the blocks to healing. The goal is to connect to your authenticity, and have the freedom to find positive and affirming ways to enjoy relationships with self and others. The goal is to experience life without shutting down or disconnecting, and/or using destructive behaviors to reduce pain and distress. Attaining the freedom to choose what you want for yourself, begins with taking the first step.
(615) 274-4233 View (615) 274-4233
Photo of Carole Lovell, PsyD, LCSW, NBCCH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carole Lovell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, NBCCH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cookeville, TN 38501
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy all of my clients and have 25 years experience treating most mental or emotional disorder. I work primarily with adults. I am Certified in DBT, EMDR, and Clinical Hypnosis and personality testing. I am an Approved consultant and trainer in EMDR in TN, AL, GA, TX, KY, TX, VA, NH and Washington D. C. , I have developed a protocol for treating shame which is a result of Complex PTSD and other traumatic events including addictions, depression , anxiety and chronic pain. I treat chronic pain, relationship issues, parent education life coaching, critical incidents grief and loss, and anger management,
I enjoy all of my clients and have 25 years experience treating most mental or emotional disorder. I work primarily with adults. I am Certified in DBT, EMDR, and Clinical Hypnosis and personality testing. I am an Approved consultant and trainer in EMDR in TN, AL, GA, TX, KY, TX, VA, NH and Washington D. C. , I have developed a protocol for treating shame which is a result of Complex PTSD and other traumatic events including addictions, depression , anxiety and chronic pain. I treat chronic pain, relationship issues, parent education life coaching, critical incidents grief and loss, and anger management,
(931) 246-4164 x200 View (931) 246-4164 x200
Photo of Jennifer K. Knowles, MHSP, (temp), Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer K. Knowles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHSP, (temp)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
While I work with all types of clients, I have special training in chronic pain and illness, complex trauma, complicated grief, and end-of-life counseling.
I work with clients from all walks of life and with a variety of concerns and lived experiences. My approach to therapy is through a polyvagal-informed, body-based lens incorporating therapeutic modalities designed to attend to biological systems as well as core thoughts, beliefs, and emotions. Clients who are interested in achieving a better understanding of the body/brain connection and who would like to address chronic pain, tension, and trauma in the body will find help here. My goal is to restore ease and empower you to connect with your own innate healing abilities.
While I work with all types of clients, I have special training in chronic pain and illness, complex trauma, complicated grief, and end-of-life counseling.
I work with clients from all walks of life and with a variety of concerns and lived experiences. My approach to therapy is through a polyvagal-informed, body-based lens incorporating therapeutic modalities designed to attend to biological systems as well as core thoughts, beliefs, and emotions. Clients who are interested in achieving a better understanding of the body/brain connection and who would like to address chronic pain, tension, and trauma in the body will find help here. My goal is to restore ease and empower you to connect with your own innate healing abilities.
(629) 205-9519 View (629) 205-9519
Photo of Nicki Sindle, MA, LPC, MHSP, EMDR II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicki Sindle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP, EMDR II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
As needed, I use EMDR to help clients release trauma, fears, & stored pain from adverse experiences.
Asking for help and deciding to begin therapy is a difficult decision, requiring courage and strength. I commend you on taking the first step toward feeling better, self-awareness, and personal growth. My goal is to empower clients to make positive changes in their emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical health. As clients learn to identify & reprocess their negative beliefs, they are able to make personal improvements in lifestyle choices & relationships. I aim to provide a physically and emotionally safe and caring environment for clients to engage in a interactive process to ultimately make the positive changes they wish for.
As needed, I use EMDR to help clients release trauma, fears, & stored pain from adverse experiences.
Asking for help and deciding to begin therapy is a difficult decision, requiring courage and strength. I commend you on taking the first step toward feeling better, self-awareness, and personal growth. My goal is to empower clients to make positive changes in their emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical health. As clients learn to identify & reprocess their negative beliefs, they are able to make personal improvements in lifestyle choices & relationships. I aim to provide a physically and emotionally safe and caring environment for clients to engage in a interactive process to ultimately make the positive changes they wish for.
(615) 285-3107 View (615) 285-3107
Photo of Shea Collins M Ed, M, Ed, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shea Collins M Ed
Pre-Licensed Professional, M, Ed
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421
Adult children of immature parent(s) or neglectful guardian(s) can feel disconnected from others, are fearful of rejection or abandonment, experience anxiety or depression, and struggle with anger, boundaries and relationships. Confiding in friends, family, or co-workers can be supportive, but often their advice leaves you feeling more alone and confused. I also specialize in attachment, human development, and managing chronic illness or limitations that come with aging, and working with women and mothers who identify as neurodivergent, HSP, ADHD, being on the spectrum, or struggle with social cues and sensory processing.
Adult children of immature parent(s) or neglectful guardian(s) can feel disconnected from others, are fearful of rejection or abandonment, experience anxiety or depression, and struggle with anger, boundaries and relationships. Confiding in friends, family, or co-workers can be supportive, but often their advice leaves you feeling more alone and confused. I also specialize in attachment, human development, and managing chronic illness or limitations that come with aging, and working with women and mothers who identify as neurodivergent, HSP, ADHD, being on the spectrum, or struggle with social cues and sensory processing.
(423) 401-0681 View (423) 401-0681
Photo of Catherine Harris, MA, ATR-BC, RYT 200, Art Therapist
Catherine Harris
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, RYT 200
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
Offering sessions in Art Therapy to support chronic illness, grief and loss, and burnout. Throughout our lives, loss can show up in many forms: the loss of a job, the loss of a relationship, the loss of health, the loss of fertility, and of course the loss of life. All of these experiences can have the same intense effects as the death of a loved one. They can leave us feeling shattered, lost, and alone. Our modern-day way of life does not provide us with the rituals or guides we need to properly care for ourselves, find relief and support, and effectively grieve these losses when they occur. I understand, and I’m here to help.
Offering sessions in Art Therapy to support chronic illness, grief and loss, and burnout. Throughout our lives, loss can show up in many forms: the loss of a job, the loss of a relationship, the loss of health, the loss of fertility, and of course the loss of life. All of these experiences can have the same intense effects as the death of a loved one. They can leave us feeling shattered, lost, and alone. Our modern-day way of life does not provide us with the rituals or guides we need to properly care for ourselves, find relief and support, and effectively grieve these losses when they occur. I understand, and I’m here to help.
(615) 265-6116 View (615) 265-6116
Photo of Tony A Halton, MSW, LADAC, MAC, EAP, SAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Tony A Halton
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LADAC, MAC, EAP, SAP
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Pain Management patients to assist in developing coping skills to change negative thoughts and behaviors.
I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselor and have a Masters Social Work Degree. I offer individual therapy, couples and family counseling in addition to group counseling. I specialize in mood disorders, depression post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), marriage & family therapy, anxiety disorders, domestic violence, trauma issues, grief therapy and anger management.
I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Pain Management patients to assist in developing coping skills to change negative thoughts and behaviors.
I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselor and have a Masters Social Work Degree. I offer individual therapy, couples and family counseling in addition to group counseling. I specialize in mood disorders, depression post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), marriage & family therapy, anxiety disorders, domestic violence, trauma issues, grief therapy and anger management.
(615) 703-5085 View (615) 703-5085
Photo of Yvette Mallory, PsyD, LP, RN, Psychologist
Yvette Mallory
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, RN
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in working with chronic pain and insomnia.
As a psychologist and nurse, I bring a unique understanding to therapy with a focus on both biological and psychological factors that impact mood and behavioral patterns. I believe in a collaborative and holistic approach in my work to help each client achieve personal life goals that are generally aimed at improving health and wellness, managing stress, and improving relationships.
I have specialized training in working with chronic pain and insomnia.
As a psychologist and nurse, I bring a unique understanding to therapy with a focus on both biological and psychological factors that impact mood and behavioral patterns. I believe in a collaborative and holistic approach in my work to help each client achieve personal life goals that are generally aimed at improving health and wellness, managing stress, and improving relationships.
(629) 260-4640 View (629) 260-4640
Photo of Cindy Patterson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cindy Patterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
My specialties Include life transitions, chronic pain/illness, and trauma.
I am passionate about supporting people in their healing journey. Through life’s challenges and circumstances, we adapt and develop strategies that help us cope and meet our needs. These protective strategies make sense and are successful until they no longer support us in a way that is helpful. Pain and trauma may continue to keep us stuck in patterns or limit us to certain roles that are not a true reflection of all of who we are.
My specialties Include life transitions, chronic pain/illness, and trauma.
I am passionate about supporting people in their healing journey. Through life’s challenges and circumstances, we adapt and develop strategies that help us cope and meet our needs. These protective strategies make sense and are successful until they no longer support us in a way that is helpful. Pain and trauma may continue to keep us stuck in patterns or limit us to certain roles that are not a true reflection of all of who we are.
(615) 471-7836 View (615) 471-7836
Photo of Carolyn Kutsko, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolyn Kutsko
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
David Forbes and I facilitate Groups helping clients heal from trauma and emotional pain.
I am a Holistic Therapist meaning I treat mental health through the lens of the whole person: emotional, relational, physical, and spiritual. I offer experiences treating depression, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders and other mental health issues aiming to bring clients into their bodies and out of the mode of traditional talk therapy. These include psychodrama, sand tray, art, and yoga therapy. Wounding happens through living, relational, body-felt experiences and require similar experiences to heal. I create a safe container and relationship for the natural process of healing to occur. Expect to move, breath, and feel... we will not just sit and talk.
David Forbes and I facilitate Groups helping clients heal from trauma and emotional pain.
I am a Holistic Therapist meaning I treat mental health through the lens of the whole person: emotional, relational, physical, and spiritual. I offer experiences treating depression, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders and other mental health issues aiming to bring clients into their bodies and out of the mode of traditional talk therapy. These include psychodrama, sand tray, art, and yoga therapy. Wounding happens through living, relational, body-felt experiences and require similar experiences to heal. I create a safe container and relationship for the natural process of healing to occur. Expect to move, breath, and feel... we will not just sit and talk.
(615) 800-7078 View (615) 800-7078
Photo of Michelle Hilton, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Hilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
Chronic perfectionism, while helpful in the short term, can lead to stress, relationship issues and chronic pain/illness down the road.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or depressed? Maybe you've been having thoughts of not being good enough or questioning your identity. You might be the kind of person who is used to having it all figured out and can usually manage things on your own, but lately it’s been feeling like too much to handle. Stress is starting to negatively impact your relationships, work and health. Trying to carry this weight can be emotionally and physically exhausting especially when you’re trying to do it alone. That’s where I come in.
Chronic perfectionism, while helpful in the short term, can lead to stress, relationship issues and chronic pain/illness down the road.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or depressed? Maybe you've been having thoughts of not being good enough or questioning your identity. You might be the kind of person who is used to having it all figured out and can usually manage things on your own, but lately it’s been feeling like too much to handle. Stress is starting to negatively impact your relationships, work and health. Trying to carry this weight can be emotionally and physically exhausting especially when you’re trying to do it alone. That’s where I come in.
(615) 395-6489 View (615) 395-6489
Photo of Paige Landry, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Paige Landry
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37411
It takes courage to face the pain that we’ve experienced, and I would be delighted to be with you on your journey of finding wholeness and meaning.
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here. I truly believe that we are all wired for connection, and that we find healing in relationships in which we are seen, heard, and valued. Your story matters to me. I hope to provide a warm, safe, and nurturing space for you to show up exactly as you are. I view the process of therapy as relational and collaborative, and I want you to know that you don’t have to do this work alone.
It takes courage to face the pain that we’ve experienced, and I would be delighted to be with you on your journey of finding wholeness and meaning.
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here. I truly believe that we are all wired for connection, and that we find healing in relationships in which we are seen, heard, and valued. Your story matters to me. I hope to provide a warm, safe, and nurturing space for you to show up exactly as you are. I view the process of therapy as relational and collaborative, and I want you to know that you don’t have to do this work alone.
(423) 521-0175 View (423) 521-0175
Photo of Ellen Wilkins - Ellen Wilkins Counseling and Therapy, LMFT, PT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellen Wilkins Counseling and Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Waitlist for new clients
My hope is for you to transform your pain, and find acceptance and peace to live life to the fullest!.
Are you struggling with a difficult, significant person in your life? Do you stuff your feelings, trying to keep the peace then, in frustration, overreact? I have a passion for healthy relationships and believe a strong, therapeutic relationship can provide the context for transformative healing & growth. I work well with people who feel stuck in the way they handle conflict-either avoiding it or repeating unhealthy patterns or behaviors. I can help you expand your awareness about how the past is effecting the present so you can respond to those you love without losing yourself.
My hope is for you to transform your pain, and find acceptance and peace to live life to the fullest!.
Are you struggling with a difficult, significant person in your life? Do you stuff your feelings, trying to keep the peace then, in frustration, overreact? I have a passion for healthy relationships and believe a strong, therapeutic relationship can provide the context for transformative healing & growth. I work well with people who feel stuck in the way they handle conflict-either avoiding it or repeating unhealthy patterns or behaviors. I can help you expand your awareness about how the past is effecting the present so you can respond to those you love without losing yourself.
(615) 203-8110 View (615) 203-8110
Photo of Christine Wolf, MMFT, MedFT, CKAP
Christine Wolf
MMFT, MedFT, CKAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
As a Temp-Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist I meet people where they are, find their own intention for therapy, & guide them through their interpersonal relationships, thoughts, and feelings. I work from an evidence-based Collaborative/Narrative Strength Based Approach to understand the patient’s perspective and help empower them to understand their mental health through neurophysiological psychoeducation, assessments, and build coping skills for everyday life stressors. I see patients with chronic illness, depression, anxiety, Trauma (PTSD, Complex), relationship distress/conflict. I work with individuals, couples, and families.
As a Temp-Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist I meet people where they are, find their own intention for therapy, & guide them through their interpersonal relationships, thoughts, and feelings. I work from an evidence-based Collaborative/Narrative Strength Based Approach to understand the patient’s perspective and help empower them to understand their mental health through neurophysiological psychoeducation, assessments, and build coping skills for everyday life stressors. I see patients with chronic illness, depression, anxiety, Trauma (PTSD, Complex), relationship distress/conflict. I work with individuals, couples, and families.
(615) 845-5951 View (615) 845-5951
Photo of Carrie Wilkerson, MA, MMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carrie Wilkerson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
Hi, I’m Carrie. Whatever is happening in your life right now, we can face it with care and find authentic, effective ways to handle it, together. For over 20 years, I’ve worked with individuals, groups, organizations, and communities in making positive change. I have also experienced my own healing journey from childhood abuse and family dysfunction, so I’m intimately familiar with the terrain. My life’s passion is for healing trauma; transforming pain into wholeness; helping my clients develop their unique gifts and path; and nurturing relationships back to health; and that’s what I’ve trained to do.
Hi, I’m Carrie. Whatever is happening in your life right now, we can face it with care and find authentic, effective ways to handle it, together. For over 20 years, I’ve worked with individuals, groups, organizations, and communities in making positive change. I have also experienced my own healing journey from childhood abuse and family dysfunction, so I’m intimately familiar with the terrain. My life’s passion is for healing trauma; transforming pain into wholeness; helping my clients develop their unique gifts and path; and nurturing relationships back to health; and that’s what I’ve trained to do.
(615) 492-2208 View (615) 492-2208
Photo of Samantha Ramsey, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Ramsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Now accepting new clients! Do you want to deepen your existing relationships? Are you afraid to share your feelings with your loved ones? Do recent events leave you scared of the future? Do you want to reduce your anxiety and depression, and improve the lives of your family, children or community? A satisfying relationship could be the key to your mental and physical health. If you identify as a black sheep, creative, caregiver, helpless romantic, highly sensitive person, hippie, living with chronic pain or illness, people-pleaser, or perfectionist you will benefit most from a relational approach to therapy.
Now accepting new clients! Do you want to deepen your existing relationships? Are you afraid to share your feelings with your loved ones? Do recent events leave you scared of the future? Do you want to reduce your anxiety and depression, and improve the lives of your family, children or community? A satisfying relationship could be the key to your mental and physical health. If you identify as a black sheep, creative, caregiver, helpless romantic, highly sensitive person, hippie, living with chronic pain or illness, people-pleaser, or perfectionist you will benefit most from a relational approach to therapy.
(865) 213-9035 View (865) 213-9035
Photo of Kyra Rane Weyenberg, TLMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kyra Rane Weyenberg
Pre-Licensed Professional, TLMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Life feels burdensome. You struggle to keep up with its changes and demands, and often feel overwhelmed. Your relationships feel distressing and distant, and you’re not sure how to make this work anymore. You've experienced loss, and the pain is challenging to manage. It’s an endless cycle leaving you feeling alone and stuck. You want the chaos to quiet, the joy to return, and the darkness to lift. I believe there’s a way through pain and heartache. Let’s uncover hope and healing together.
Life feels burdensome. You struggle to keep up with its changes and demands, and often feel overwhelmed. Your relationships feel distressing and distant, and you’re not sure how to make this work anymore. You've experienced loss, and the pain is challenging to manage. It’s an endless cycle leaving you feeling alone and stuck. You want the chaos to quiet, the joy to return, and the darkness to lift. I believe there’s a way through pain and heartache. Let’s uncover hope and healing together.
(615) 558-8548 View (615) 558-8548
Photo of Jeanetta Reston - Jeanetta Reston, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeanetta Reston, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I know it can be difficult to bring someone else into your pain, but reaching out is the first step.
I know the courage it takes to walk into someone's office for the first time, so I strive to create an encouraging environment. My life experience has given me compassion and empathy for people who are hurting and are in need of help. I know how the past can influence the present and how the future can seem less hopeful. I believe hope is a powerful force. So if your lacking hope, I have extra you can borrow. Allot of my practice involves trauma work with individuals and couples and I utilize EMDR and Gottman method.
I know it can be difficult to bring someone else into your pain, but reaching out is the first step.
I know the courage it takes to walk into someone's office for the first time, so I strive to create an encouraging environment. My life experience has given me compassion and empathy for people who are hurting and are in need of help. I know how the past can influence the present and how the future can seem less hopeful. I believe hope is a powerful force. So if your lacking hope, I have extra you can borrow. Allot of my practice involves trauma work with individuals and couples and I utilize EMDR and Gottman method.
(615) 205-6694 View (615) 205-6694
Photo of Sandi Anders - Sandi Anders, MDiv, E-RYT, CSC, ACS, Counselor
Sandi Anders
Counselor, MDiv, E-RYT, CSC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212  (Online Only)
In my personal challenge with pelvic pain, I have explored a range of medical and alternative approaches to treatment.
As an AASECT Certified Sexuality Counselor working with individuals and couples, I combine evidence-based best practices with experience as a Tantric Sexuality Educator and practitioner, offering a supportive environment for thorough and constructive exploration of sexual matters. Questions and concerns may be talked about openly without fear of embarrassment or criticism. As a Mind-Body Psychotherapist, I help clients talk through issues and learn to utilize emotions as embodied resources for healing and growth, encouraging awareness of connection between body, mind, and spirit. My background as a pastoral psychotherapist and experience with body therapies such as yoga, breath-work, and meditation inform my work.
In my personal challenge with pelvic pain, I have explored a range of medical and alternative approaches to treatment.
As an AASECT Certified Sexuality Counselor working with individuals and couples, I combine evidence-based best practices with experience as a Tantric Sexuality Educator and practitioner, offering a supportive environment for thorough and constructive exploration of sexual matters. Questions and concerns may be talked about openly without fear of embarrassment or criticism. As a Mind-Body Psychotherapist, I help clients talk through issues and learn to utilize emotions as embodied resources for healing and growth, encouraging awareness of connection between body, mind, and spirit. My background as a pastoral psychotherapist and experience with body therapies such as yoga, breath-work, and meditation inform my work.
(615) 800-7826 View (615) 800-7826
Photo of Angela Thompson - Angela Thompson Counseling, MMFT, MMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Angela Thompson Counseling, MMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
My desire is to offer hope and healing for you and your relationships by honoring your story, helping you discover places you are stuck, and walking along side you in your journey to healing. I see women, couples, and families, providing a safe place to explore hurt and pain on your path to wholeness and peace. I am trained in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), EMDR, Murray Method Trauma Certified level 1 & 2, and implement attachment-based therapy in my practice. Serving as a nurse for 30 years allowed me to sit with people through some of their darkest moments, while providing encouragement and hope.
My desire is to offer hope and healing for you and your relationships by honoring your story, helping you discover places you are stuck, and walking along side you in your journey to healing. I see women, couples, and families, providing a safe place to explore hurt and pain on your path to wholeness and peace. I am trained in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), EMDR, Murray Method Trauma Certified level 1 & 2, and implement attachment-based therapy in my practice. Serving as a nurse for 30 years allowed me to sit with people through some of their darkest moments, while providing encouragement and hope.
(615) 436-5930 View (615) 436-5930
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.