Chronic Pain Therapists in Nashville, TN
![Photo of Jenna Cummings, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9796cf96-43a0-4251-b8be-069463c38fa8/1/320x400.png)
If you’re struggling with depression anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, chronic illness/disability taking the first step in therapy is intimidating but I will work hard to make this first step as comfortable as possible. I have a passion for working with individuals with Chronic Illness/Chronic Pain/Disability, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions. I believe that true healing happens when the entire person is cared for (mind and body) which informs my integrative approach to therapy.
If you’re struggling with depression anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, chronic illness/disability taking the first step in therapy is intimidating but I will work hard to make this first step as comfortable as possible. I have a passion for working with individuals with Chronic Illness/Chronic Pain/Disability, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions. I believe that true healing happens when the entire person is cared for (mind and body) which informs my integrative approach to therapy.
![Photo of Amber Kowing Hayzlett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dac41012-80d7-465d-8454-954f3498be14/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Kowing Hayzlett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37207
I help men, women, and LGBTQIA+ adults explore who they are and who they want to be. I deeply enjoy working with those who have experienced complex relational or religious/spiritual trauma, those who live with chronic pain or illnesses, and those (yes, you) high-achieving, perfectionists, creatives & professionals. Whether you're coming to therapy for the first time or the tenth time, my goal is that you are able to leave our sessions encouraged, equipped, and more compassionate towards yourself and others.
I help men, women, and LGBTQIA+ adults explore who they are and who they want to be. I deeply enjoy working with those who have experienced complex relational or religious/spiritual trauma, those who live with chronic pain or illnesses, and those (yes, you) high-achieving, perfectionists, creatives & professionals. Whether you're coming to therapy for the first time or the tenth time, my goal is that you are able to leave our sessions encouraged, equipped, and more compassionate towards yourself and others.
![Photo of Jennifer K. Knowles, MHSP, (temp), Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59da2664-156c-449c-ac3d-234e71c39ea5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer K. Knowles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHSP, (temp)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
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.
![Photo of Katie Casey, LPC, MHSP, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f16bf1e-481b-4e82-9be6-74a0d9b1640a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Casey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MA
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
Waitlist for new clients
The pain that comes from things like PTSD and secondary trauma, anxiety, and chronic pain/illness can be so heavy.
Therapy is all about healing. Healing from the past, old wounds, thoughts or feelings that aren't serving you anymore. So often, we have learned various ways of living to get through the days, to cope, but it's surviving and not truly living. For most, facing those things seems scary and that fear keeps them from living the life they want. I see my role as a therapist is to foster a space of safety so healing can occur. Through compassion, honesty, and ultimately connection, I work with my clients to help them move towards their best selves.
The pain that comes from things like PTSD and secondary trauma, anxiety, and chronic pain/illness can be so heavy.
Therapy is all about healing. Healing from the past, old wounds, thoughts or feelings that aren't serving you anymore. So often, we have learned various ways of living to get through the days, to cope, but it's surviving and not truly living. For most, facing those things seems scary and that fear keeps them from living the life they want. I see my role as a therapist is to foster a space of safety so healing can occur. Through compassion, honesty, and ultimately connection, I work with my clients to help them move towards their best selves.
![Photo of Dr. Mike McDermott, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dfb4262-f564-49a3-bc13-3fa1d4858a06/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with a health condition such as chronic pain? Do you experience emotional difficulties like stress, anxiety, worry, depression, or loss of motivation that cause a disruption to your physical health or get in the way of engaging in meaningful health behaviors? Navigating psychological experiences on a path toward health and wellness can be challenging and complex. Using an active therapeutic process, we can work together to develop effective emotional and behavioral skills, identify valued directions, and take actionable steps toward a meaningful life.
Are you struggling with a health condition such as chronic pain? Do you experience emotional difficulties like stress, anxiety, worry, depression, or loss of motivation that cause a disruption to your physical health or get in the way of engaging in meaningful health behaviors? Navigating psychological experiences on a path toward health and wellness can be challenging and complex. Using an active therapeutic process, we can work together to develop effective emotional and behavioral skills, identify valued directions, and take actionable steps toward a meaningful life.
![Photo of Yvette Mallory, PsyD, LP, RN, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/226f7765-8c75-4040-976b-876ec10f355a/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dan LaVelle, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4505821e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dan LaVelle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220 (Online Only)
I specialize in Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Depression, and Existential Issues.
My goal is to utilize the individual strengths of all clients for the sake of enabling them to accomplish their goals, overcome hardships, and live up to their fullest potential. This possibility is readily available to all willing to adopt new perspectives and practices to their day to day lives. I am passionate about meeting clients where they are for the sake of discovering the perspectives and interests that make people excited about the lives they live. I am credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Service Provider.
I specialize in Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Depression, and Existential Issues.
My goal is to utilize the individual strengths of all clients for the sake of enabling them to accomplish their goals, overcome hardships, and live up to their fullest potential. This possibility is readily available to all willing to adopt new perspectives and practices to their day to day lives. I am passionate about meeting clients where they are for the sake of discovering the perspectives and interests that make people excited about the lives they live. I am credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Service Provider.
![Photo of Erin Kelly, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c1dbc17-f25a-4901-afa5-b45fc9651045/1/320x400.jpeg)
Regardless of what brings you here, I won't claim to understand exactly what you're experiencing or that I have all the answers. While I believe that you are the expert on your life journey, I can offer professional support and share tools to help you peacefully navigate obstacles along the way. I work with all types of life experiences, but specialize in supporting individuals coping with a wide range of chronic pain conditions (e.g., POTS, EDS, IC, IBS, fibromyalgia, cancer) and illnesses. I also have expertise in the relationships between trauma and pain, mind-body psychology, and diversity/identity.
Regardless of what brings you here, I won't claim to understand exactly what you're experiencing or that I have all the answers. While I believe that you are the expert on your life journey, I can offer professional support and share tools to help you peacefully navigate obstacles along the way. I work with all types of life experiences, but specialize in supporting individuals coping with a wide range of chronic pain conditions (e.g., POTS, EDS, IC, IBS, fibromyalgia, cancer) and illnesses. I also have expertise in the relationships between trauma and pain, mind-body psychology, and diversity/identity.
![Photo of Carrie Wilkerson, MA, MMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/352504b1-4034-41b2-a300-d3e3ea63dc56/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Lindsay E Vaughn - Hazel House, PLLC / Lindsay E. Vaughn, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a426b06-7347-4b02-bf67-1241860e0d94/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hazel House, PLLC / Lindsay E. Vaughn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
We treat a variety of concerns, especially trauma / PTSD (sexual assault / rape, military (veterans), and all forms of child abuse / neglect), family / relational attachment issues, depression, anxiety, chronic pain / illness, & substance use.
Many clients come to us after feeling stuck in talk therapy. Talking about your problems is helpful, but sometimes you need more! If you are ready to take your healing to the next level, please reach out! We integrate somatic and experiential therapies, such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Hypnotherapy, IFS, psychodrama, nature therapy, ketamine-assisted therapy, Neurofeedback, holistic health coaching, and more, to go deeper, so you can truly heal from past experiences. There are no quick fixes - there is only the journey to truly know, love, and care for yourself, and our team of expert therapists is ready to take the journey with you.
We treat a variety of concerns, especially trauma / PTSD (sexual assault / rape, military (veterans), and all forms of child abuse / neglect), family / relational attachment issues, depression, anxiety, chronic pain / illness, & substance use.
Many clients come to us after feeling stuck in talk therapy. Talking about your problems is helpful, but sometimes you need more! If you are ready to take your healing to the next level, please reach out! We integrate somatic and experiential therapies, such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Hypnotherapy, IFS, psychodrama, nature therapy, ketamine-assisted therapy, Neurofeedback, holistic health coaching, and more, to go deeper, so you can truly heal from past experiences. There are no quick fixes - there is only the journey to truly know, love, and care for yourself, and our team of expert therapists is ready to take the journey with you.
![Photo of Callie Cox, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52f1df16-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
One of my favorite song lyrics right now is from the Lumineers, "it is better to feel pain than nothing at all." My work with clients looks like providing them someone to walk through the pain with so that they can create room for the joy that will follow. I work with clients through the attachment and emotional lens to help them create love and relationship that feels safe again.
One of my favorite song lyrics right now is from the Lumineers, "it is better to feel pain than nothing at all." My work with clients looks like providing them someone to walk through the pain with so that they can create room for the joy that will follow. I work with clients through the attachment and emotional lens to help them create love and relationship that feels safe again.
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![Photo of Brian S Poynter, LPC, MHSP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca0c5d3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Utilizing the basic tenets of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy I enjoy assisting those with a wide range of mental health issues. From acute illness such as Bipolar Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder to change of life issues, this approach allows for permanent change to the the distorted thought process. My experience has been, and continues to be inpatient at a local psychiatric hospital as well as my private practice. I will work with your psychiatrist or medical provider as well as supportive members of your family/life to provide a more comprehensive approach to mental wellness.
Utilizing the basic tenets of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy I enjoy assisting those with a wide range of mental health issues. From acute illness such as Bipolar Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder to change of life issues, this approach allows for permanent change to the the distorted thought process. My experience has been, and continues to be inpatient at a local psychiatric hospital as well as my private practice. I will work with your psychiatrist or medical provider as well as supportive members of your family/life to provide a more comprehensive approach to mental wellness.
![Photo of Steve Zanoni, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64a0f09c-f6ea-48bc-ab01-57bb89659a5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I extend my support-driven counseling approach to clients dealing with difficult times or mental illness.
I am a Chicagoland native that migrated to Nashville in 2019 to pursue my passion for helping and motivating those in need of guidance and counseling. Working as a mental health professional with more than two decades of experience in counseling, public service and resolution, leadership roles, and mentoring, I have developed a distinct skill set for providing effective counseling and act as a positive support system for adults, adolescents, and children.
I extend my support-driven counseling approach to clients dealing with difficult times or mental illness.
I am a Chicagoland native that migrated to Nashville in 2019 to pursue my passion for helping and motivating those in need of guidance and counseling. Working as a mental health professional with more than two decades of experience in counseling, public service and resolution, leadership roles, and mentoring, I have developed a distinct skill set for providing effective counseling and act as a positive support system for adults, adolescents, and children.
![Photo of Catherine Harris, MA, ATR-BC, RYT 200, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccdcc230-a06b-4118-a407-ec60d7a2d846/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kyra Rane Weyenberg, TLMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac2cedcb-df0b-48d1-848a-dc2940fb1b7e/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Sandi Anders - Sandi Anders, MDiv, E-RYT, CSC, ACS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d973983-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kitti L Virts, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/868a560c-e0aa-4567-8480-a71ca4fa97a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, mood, stress & trauma-related disorders, eating disorders, chronic pain/medical illnesses, weight issues, and interpersonal problems.
Ideal clients are individuals who may struggle to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, or life in general, feel stuck in recurrent problematic behavioral or relationship patterns, and want to improve their life and feel at peace. We all have an innate ability to grow and heal. My primary job as a therapist is to help clients tap into that healing process and reconnect with and strengthen their natural resources, talents, and spirit so that they can become the person they want and were created to be.
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, mood, stress & trauma-related disorders, eating disorders, chronic pain/medical illnesses, weight issues, and interpersonal problems.
Ideal clients are individuals who may struggle to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, or life in general, feel stuck in recurrent problematic behavioral or relationship patterns, and want to improve their life and feel at peace. We all have an innate ability to grow and heal. My primary job as a therapist is to help clients tap into that healing process and reconnect with and strengthen their natural resources, talents, and spirit so that they can become the person they want and were created to be.
![Photo of Steven Lepley, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45b0f685-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in early addiction recovery support, grief and trauma counseling along with PTSD of all kinds including combat trauma. I am EMDR trained and also work with chronic pain patients to help reduce or eliminate pain through a specific EMDR protocol.
I specialize in early addiction recovery support, grief and trauma counseling along with PTSD of all kinds including combat trauma. I am EMDR trained and also work with chronic pain patients to help reduce or eliminate pain through a specific EMDR protocol.
![Photo of Kelsey MacDonald, EdS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b6f9785-2222-4ff8-8241-9e1ed03d0d52/4/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey MacDonald
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Alongside these intersections, I work with folks with chronic pain and illness, eating disorders, overstimulated parents, as well as those who have experienced complex, relational, or medical trauma.
Are you wondering if EMDR or Brainspotting is a right fit for you? You may find yourself caught in the same repetitive cycles, or maybe you've tried many things before and feel stuck. You may also know there are experiences in your past that are in need of healing. Trying to find the right therapy for you can be so painful and exhausting, and I'm here to help. I help clients get to the root of what they are feeling, manage stress responses in their body, increase skills in navigating relationships with others, and heal their trauma for lasting change through mind and body based therapies like EMDR, IFS, and Brainspotting.
Alongside these intersections, I work with folks with chronic pain and illness, eating disorders, overstimulated parents, as well as those who have experienced complex, relational, or medical trauma.
Are you wondering if EMDR or Brainspotting is a right fit for you? You may find yourself caught in the same repetitive cycles, or maybe you've tried many things before and feel stuck. You may also know there are experiences in your past that are in need of healing. Trying to find the right therapy for you can be so painful and exhausting, and I'm here to help. I help clients get to the root of what they are feeling, manage stress responses in their body, increase skills in navigating relationships with others, and heal their trauma for lasting change through mind and body based therapies like EMDR, IFS, and Brainspotting.
![Photo of Campbell Hopkins, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8311a1e5-5f4f-479f-b5b1-f66789b8a1e9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you’re in a season of transition or pain, you want to more fully explore your story, or you desire a deeper connection with your inner world, I’d be honored to join you.
Two values I strive for in the therapy room are understanding and security. When you walk through my door, I want you to feel the kind of safety that allows you to get cozy on the sofa and take a deep breath before diving into what matters most to you. Throughout the process, my hope is that all parts of you - those you love and know well and those that you struggle with or push away in your daily life - feel welcome, seen, appreciated, and understood. My clients are primarily adult individuals who hope to find healing and connection within themselves and with others.
Whether you’re in a season of transition or pain, you want to more fully explore your story, or you desire a deeper connection with your inner world, I’d be honored to join you.
Two values I strive for in the therapy room are understanding and security. When you walk through my door, I want you to feel the kind of safety that allows you to get cozy on the sofa and take a deep breath before diving into what matters most to you. Throughout the process, my hope is that all parts of you - those you love and know well and those that you struggle with or push away in your daily life - feel welcome, seen, appreciated, and understood. My clients are primarily adult individuals who hope to find healing and connection within themselves and with others.
See more therapy options for Nashville
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Nashville
- Antioch
- Bellevue
- Brentwood
- Franklin
- Gallatin
- Goodlettsville
- Hendersonville
- Lebanon
- Madison
- Mount Juliet
- Smyrna
- Thompsons Station
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.