Photo of Dyan Haspel-Johnson, PSY, Psychologist
Dyan Haspel-Johnson
Psychologist, PSY
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78745  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use hypnosis to treat everything from pain and chronic illness to anxiety and self-esteem.
Are you looking for greater balance and harmony in your life? I am aware of the interaction between mind, body, and spirit and how challenges to these components can be opportunities for growth, strength, and wisdom. We are all unique individuals so my approach to each person varies to suit each particular issue and patient. By focusing on your core values, I will actively help you to reach your potential. I see therapy as a collaborative process with myself here to facilitate the building of your resources and strengths to empower you.
I use hypnosis to treat everything from pain and chronic illness to anxiety and self-esteem.
Are you looking for greater balance and harmony in your life? I am aware of the interaction between mind, body, and spirit and how challenges to these components can be opportunities for growth, strength, and wisdom. We are all unique individuals so my approach to each person varies to suit each particular issue and patient. By focusing on your core values, I will actively help you to reach your potential. I see therapy as a collaborative process with myself here to facilitate the building of your resources and strengths to empower you.
(424) 294-8970 View (424) 294-8970
Photo of India Gardner, MA, LPC-A, LPC Intern
India Gardner
LPC Intern, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78753  (Online Only)
My specialties include TBIs and concussions, acquired and congenital disabilities, chronic illness and pain, racial identity and affirmation, mood and anxiety concerns and life transitions.
I'm India! Thank you for taking the first step on your therapeutic journey of healing and restoration with me! I'm the Founder and Therapist of Couch Conversations and Consulting, a fully online private practice offering quality mental health telehealth services for clients who prefer virtual sessions or may not be able to meet for in person sessions and are seeking a collaborative, compassionate and empowering therapy experience on the road to healing and restoration from the comfort of their own homes. I aim for my work as a therapist to be living proof of the benefits that therapy can be for one’s overall mental health.
My specialties include TBIs and concussions, acquired and congenital disabilities, chronic illness and pain, racial identity and affirmation, mood and anxiety concerns and life transitions.
I'm India! Thank you for taking the first step on your therapeutic journey of healing and restoration with me! I'm the Founder and Therapist of Couch Conversations and Consulting, a fully online private practice offering quality mental health telehealth services for clients who prefer virtual sessions or may not be able to meet for in person sessions and are seeking a collaborative, compassionate and empowering therapy experience on the road to healing and restoration from the comfort of their own homes. I aim for my work as a therapist to be living proof of the benefits that therapy can be for one’s overall mental health.
(737) 232-4769 View (737) 232-4769
Photo of Terri L Beck, LCDC, CHT, CPC, CPRC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Terri L Beck
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC, CHT, CPC, CPRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78757
I have used hypnotherapy to help some clients increase their ability to manage chronic pain, quit smoking or work through trauma.
I am a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and Hypnotherapist and have been working in the mental health field for over 12 years. I imagine my ideal client has been feeling symptoms of anxiety, worry or depression or maybe life has hampered you from achieving your desires or goals. I provide in-person and tele-health sessions for those located in the state of Texas that have a desire to begin coping differently
I have used hypnotherapy to help some clients increase their ability to manage chronic pain, quit smoking or work through trauma.
I am a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and Hypnotherapist and have been working in the mental health field for over 12 years. I imagine my ideal client has been feeling symptoms of anxiety, worry or depression or maybe life has hampered you from achieving your desires or goals. I provide in-person and tele-health sessions for those located in the state of Texas that have a desire to begin coping differently
(956) 450-7334 View (956) 450-7334
Photo of Ali Houshmand, MA, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ali Houshmand
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Seeking support after the death of a loved one, or preparing for the death of a loved one, can be overwhelming. The focus of my work is to support individuals, families, couples, and children/teenagers when they are dealing with the challenges of loss due to an illness or other issues related to loss. I strive to help my clients cope with the difficult prospects of loss such as death, suicide, divorce, marital discord, terminal illness, chronic illness, job loss, and the challenges it brings to the client, and their family.
Seeking support after the death of a loved one, or preparing for the death of a loved one, can be overwhelming. The focus of my work is to support individuals, families, couples, and children/teenagers when they are dealing with the challenges of loss due to an illness or other issues related to loss. I strive to help my clients cope with the difficult prospects of loss such as death, suicide, divorce, marital discord, terminal illness, chronic illness, job loss, and the challenges it brings to the client, and their family.
(512) 764-1045 View (512) 764-1045
Photo of Deborah Vanko, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah Vanko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78748  (Online Only)
For 30 years I have helped couples and individuals to create a satisfying, loving, conflict-free life by overcoming past or present obstacles. Everyone deserves to be happy and free of emotional pain. I believe empowering people to take charge of their life is liberating. I use a wide variety of counseling approaches customized to fit the individual. These include expressing emotion, identifying helpful and dysfunctional thinking/beliefs and changing behavior or developing strategies to create success. I am an open-minded therapist accepting the diversity of client lifestyle and gender.
For 30 years I have helped couples and individuals to create a satisfying, loving, conflict-free life by overcoming past or present obstacles. Everyone deserves to be happy and free of emotional pain. I believe empowering people to take charge of their life is liberating. I use a wide variety of counseling approaches customized to fit the individual. These include expressing emotion, identifying helpful and dysfunctional thinking/beliefs and changing behavior or developing strategies to create success. I am an open-minded therapist accepting the diversity of client lifestyle and gender.
(512) 515-9483 View (512) 515-9483
Photo of Susan Y. Wegener - Susan Y Wegener, LCSW, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Y Wegener, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Being diagnosed with a chronic illness can create a great deal of anxiety about the future. Will I be able to keep working? Will my family and friends truly understand? Will I be able to afford treatment? Will I be able to plan for my future? You may be experiencing feelings of sadness, anger, and anxiety. You may even feel a sense of loss in terms of the person you feel you once were. There may be new limitations and challenges regarding your physical or cognitive abilities. I am here to help!
Being diagnosed with a chronic illness can create a great deal of anxiety about the future. Will I be able to keep working? Will my family and friends truly understand? Will I be able to afford treatment? Will I be able to plan for my future? You may be experiencing feelings of sadness, anger, and anxiety. You may even feel a sense of loss in terms of the person you feel you once were. There may be new limitations and challenges regarding your physical or cognitive abilities. I am here to help!
(512) 515-3841 View (512) 515-3841
Photo of Susan Bushong, MA, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Bushong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
Chronic pain and illness, sleep problems and sexual addiction and food problems are my specialties. I have over 40 years of experience, an advance certification in compulsive sexual problems and I am a certified weight loss specialist. I also have extensive training in treating anxiety and depression as well as problems in relationships. I am extensively trained in treating chronic pain and sleep problems through hypnotherapy and brief solution focused therapy. I have worked in Europe, India and the United States.
Chronic pain and illness, sleep problems and sexual addiction and food problems are my specialties. I have over 40 years of experience, an advance certification in compulsive sexual problems and I am a certified weight loss specialist. I also have extensive training in treating anxiety and depression as well as problems in relationships. I am extensively trained in treating chronic pain and sleep problems through hypnotherapy and brief solution focused therapy. I have worked in Europe, India and the United States.
(512) 337-3357 View (512) 337-3357
Photo of Latosha Kessell Thomas, MS, LPC, RYT, USAF, Veteran, Licensed Professional Counselor
Latosha Kessell Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RYT, USAF, Veteran
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78702  (Online Only)
Life transitions can cause great strain in our lives and can lead to even greater pain if not addressed. Signs that you may be struggling with a life transition are depression, anxiety, feeling unsettled and lost, emptiness, fatigue, chronic pain, unexplained ailments, and illnesses. Life is full of painful transitions. Transitions can disconnect you from your true self, what’s important to you, and ultimately disconnect you from a life with meaning. Greater clarity, self-confidence, and balance will help you reconnect with your true self and your values to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
Life transitions can cause great strain in our lives and can lead to even greater pain if not addressed. Signs that you may be struggling with a life transition are depression, anxiety, feeling unsettled and lost, emptiness, fatigue, chronic pain, unexplained ailments, and illnesses. Life is full of painful transitions. Transitions can disconnect you from your true self, what’s important to you, and ultimately disconnect you from a life with meaning. Greater clarity, self-confidence, and balance will help you reconnect with your true self and your values to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
(832) 990-1678 View (832) 990-1678
Photo of Elene Drakonakis, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elene Drakonakis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
Contemplating any change can be daunting, but here you are, reaching out, exploring. Seeing a therapist can be the first step along a new path. Change takes time, and we can go at your pace, walking together on a path you determine. Whether you are looking at a life transition, worried about how substance use is affecting you, grieving a loss or dealing with a chronic illness, together we will begin the process of examining where you are, working together to shift to a place that brings you fulfillment and to help you reach your goals.
Contemplating any change can be daunting, but here you are, reaching out, exploring. Seeing a therapist can be the first step along a new path. Change takes time, and we can go at your pace, walking together on a path you determine. Whether you are looking at a life transition, worried about how substance use is affecting you, grieving a loss or dealing with a chronic illness, together we will begin the process of examining where you are, working together to shift to a place that brings you fulfillment and to help you reach your goals.
(737) 204-2192 View (737) 204-2192
Photo of Ann DeYoung - DeYoung Counseling, PLLC, LCSW, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
DeYoung Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78741  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, relationship concerns, stress, isolation, chronic illness, compassion fatigue, grief and loss, sleep issues, self-esteem, self-compassion, parenting issues, and career transition.
Life can feel overwhelming at times and can be difficult to manage. Unexpected change can challenge our ability to navigate. Thankfully, you don’t have to navigate life’s transitions alone. I'm passionate about working with my clients to gain an understanding of both past and present stressors, while discovering tools for healing and growth. Investing time into better understanding and developing yourself is one of the most pivotal decisions you can make. Self-awareness and self-care are important for success. Together we can explore what gives your life purpose, hope and meaning and discover new paths for living your best life.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, relationship concerns, stress, isolation, chronic illness, compassion fatigue, grief and loss, sleep issues, self-esteem, self-compassion, parenting issues, and career transition.
Life can feel overwhelming at times and can be difficult to manage. Unexpected change can challenge our ability to navigate. Thankfully, you don’t have to navigate life’s transitions alone. I'm passionate about working with my clients to gain an understanding of both past and present stressors, while discovering tools for healing and growth. Investing time into better understanding and developing yourself is one of the most pivotal decisions you can make. Self-awareness and self-care are important for success. Together we can explore what gives your life purpose, hope and meaning and discover new paths for living your best life.
(512) 967-6596 View (512) 967-6596
Photo of Sydney Kudeviz, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sydney Kudeviz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78748
I work with adolescents and adults of all identities who are open to trying new healing modalities. I enjoy using a variety of tools in sessions including oracle cards, tarot cards, journaling, and EFT or tapping. I have experience navigating and understanding for clients and myself what it is like to live with chronic illness and complex medical issues, particularly chronic pelvic conditions including endometriosis and PCOS. I am happy to see clients virtually or in-person for those fully vaccinated for COVID-19.
I work with adolescents and adults of all identities who are open to trying new healing modalities. I enjoy using a variety of tools in sessions including oracle cards, tarot cards, journaling, and EFT or tapping. I have experience navigating and understanding for clients and myself what it is like to live with chronic illness and complex medical issues, particularly chronic pelvic conditions including endometriosis and PCOS. I am happy to see clients virtually or in-person for those fully vaccinated for COVID-19.
(512) 551-0294 View (512) 551-0294
Photo of Cristina Peck, MA, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cristina Peck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Issues include chronic pain, burnout, coping with cancer, parenting, relationship and communication skills, and more.
Are you experiencing burnout? Do you over-book or overwork yourself, believing you have no choice? Do you prioritize other people's needs or problems before your own? Caring physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, caregivers and parents need extra help in deciding how much they can offer and when to pull back to avoid burnout. You may need help if you are an adult child of an alcoholic or grew up in a chaotic or unpredictable home.
Issues include chronic pain, burnout, coping with cancer, parenting, relationship and communication skills, and more.
Are you experiencing burnout? Do you over-book or overwork yourself, believing you have no choice? Do you prioritize other people's needs or problems before your own? Caring physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, caregivers and parents need extra help in deciding how much they can offer and when to pull back to avoid burnout. You may need help if you are an adult child of an alcoholic or grew up in a chaotic or unpredictable home.
(512) 948-3538 View (512) 948-3538
Photo of Linda Oneal, NLP, MEd
Linda Oneal
NLP, MEd
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
I will help you reduce your anxiety and teach you how to manage your overthinking. I use a variety of modalities, including narrative therapy, mindfulness, and inner child work. I'll help you become aware of your thinking. Once we know the triggers that produced those negative, intrusive thoughts, we will examine why our conscious thoughts provoke such big emotions. These big emotions over "little" things are often rooted in how we respond to not being heard, seen, or good enough as a child. We will dismantle archetypes we've developed as adults to cope with the pain of not being enough and focus on becoming our authentic selves.
I will help you reduce your anxiety and teach you how to manage your overthinking. I use a variety of modalities, including narrative therapy, mindfulness, and inner child work. I'll help you become aware of your thinking. Once we know the triggers that produced those negative, intrusive thoughts, we will examine why our conscious thoughts provoke such big emotions. These big emotions over "little" things are often rooted in how we respond to not being heard, seen, or good enough as a child. We will dismantle archetypes we've developed as adults to cope with the pain of not being enough and focus on becoming our authentic selves.
(737) 265-7592 View (737) 265-7592
Photo of Sara Damiano, LCSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Damiano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705
While my practice specializes in challenges around life transitions, adjustment, grief, aging, caregiving issues, and chronic illness, over the years I have also had the privilege of working successfully with people bringing a broad range of other concerns, including depression, career counseling, anxiety, parenting concerns, and self-esteem.
On the surface, things are going well, but maybe you've felt anxious or sad for a long time. Relationships, work, children- the responsibilities just keep piling up, and you're downright overwhelmed. You know that finding balance is important, but you often wonder what that even means. At the same time, you realize something has to change. Life can be painful. Therapy doesn't have to be and my goal is to make it less scary, help you feel heard, and encourage you to look within yourself to access the strength and tools that will propel your life forward. Let's connect!
While my practice specializes in challenges around life transitions, adjustment, grief, aging, caregiving issues, and chronic illness, over the years I have also had the privilege of working successfully with people bringing a broad range of other concerns, including depression, career counseling, anxiety, parenting concerns, and self-esteem.
On the surface, things are going well, but maybe you've felt anxious or sad for a long time. Relationships, work, children- the responsibilities just keep piling up, and you're downright overwhelmed. You know that finding balance is important, but you often wonder what that even means. At the same time, you realize something has to change. Life can be painful. Therapy doesn't have to be and my goal is to make it less scary, help you feel heard, and encourage you to look within yourself to access the strength and tools that will propel your life forward. Let's connect!
(737) 264-6173 View (737) 264-6173
Photo of Katie Bickley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Bickley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78729
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in several clinical settings for over 11 years. I see clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, loss, career decisions, life transitions, LGBTQ+ concerns, chronic illness, adoption, conflict, attachment needs, and relationship difficulties. I tend to draw upon CBT, ACT, DBT, attachment-based therapy, MI, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, EFT, and IFS, and I welcome your input throughout the process. Each individual's experience is different, and I believe a person-centered approach is vital to a successful therapeutic process.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in several clinical settings for over 11 years. I see clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, loss, career decisions, life transitions, LGBTQ+ concerns, chronic illness, adoption, conflict, attachment needs, and relationship difficulties. I tend to draw upon CBT, ACT, DBT, attachment-based therapy, MI, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, EFT, and IFS, and I welcome your input throughout the process. Each individual's experience is different, and I believe a person-centered approach is vital to a successful therapeutic process.
(817) 674-8859 View (817) 674-8859
Photo of Turquoise N. Banks, MA, LPC, MBA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Turquoise N. Banks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701  (Online Only)
My clients come to me when they're experiencing emotional or mental distress and just want the pain to stop immediately.
The CHOICES we make have a major impact on the life we live. It's important to find a therapist who is a good fit for your needs and I understand it can be challenging. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 15 years of experience, training and advocacy. I'm an open and accessible therapist with a warm, candid, and collaborative style. I primarily use an approach based on the dynamics of mind, brain, body and spirit. I look forward to building a trusting therapeutic alliance with you and feel confident we can meet your goals together.
My clients come to me when they're experiencing emotional or mental distress and just want the pain to stop immediately.
The CHOICES we make have a major impact on the life we live. It's important to find a therapist who is a good fit for your needs and I understand it can be challenging. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 15 years of experience, training and advocacy. I'm an open and accessible therapist with a warm, candid, and collaborative style. I primarily use an approach based on the dynamics of mind, brain, body and spirit. I look forward to building a trusting therapeutic alliance with you and feel confident we can meet your goals together.
(972) 430-6412 View (972) 430-6412
Photo of Gwen B Hawley, MSW, LCSW, MAEL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen B Hawley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MAEL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I use techniques that protect your dignity, teach you how to process the source of your pain while gaining strength, understanding and compelling insight.
Therapy should not be scary nor should it be complicated. I provide a non-judgmental, safe environment for you to explore your concerns and become the best version of yourself. My clients describe me as encouraging, loving, motivating and professional.. I don't use psychobabble. My approach is down to earth, educational and adapted to meet your individual style. I use psychological principals combined with lifestyle education (exercise, diet, nutrition) to empower you to start living the life you want. These techniques may be used for physical and emotional problems and may positively impact areas such as personal relationships, sports and business.
I use techniques that protect your dignity, teach you how to process the source of your pain while gaining strength, understanding and compelling insight.
Therapy should not be scary nor should it be complicated. I provide a non-judgmental, safe environment for you to explore your concerns and become the best version of yourself. My clients describe me as encouraging, loving, motivating and professional.. I don't use psychobabble. My approach is down to earth, educational and adapted to meet your individual style. I use psychological principals combined with lifestyle education (exercise, diet, nutrition) to empower you to start living the life you want. These techniques may be used for physical and emotional problems and may positively impact areas such as personal relationships, sports and business.
(512) 920-6353 View (512) 920-6353
Photo of Heather Barcroft, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Barcroft
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78732  (Online Only)
Change is the only constant in life, but that doesn't necessarily mean it is easy. Pain or fear can be an indicator that something isn't working and it is time for change. Like most things worthwhile, change requires hard work. I love what I get to do which is guiding you through the process of change. Whatever your struggle, I'm here to work through it with you...you are not alone!
Change is the only constant in life, but that doesn't necessarily mean it is easy. Pain or fear can be an indicator that something isn't working and it is time for change. Like most things worthwhile, change requires hard work. I love what I get to do which is guiding you through the process of change. Whatever your struggle, I'm here to work through it with you...you are not alone!
(512) 361-5581 View (512) 361-5581
Photo of Nance Harding, MAHS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nance Harding
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAHS, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Waitlist for new clients
My personal experiences of major illness, climate chaos and my years as a virtual executive consultant working internationally since 2000 is what distinguishes me from others.
My consulting practice is rooted in soul and informed by science. To possess the psychological mindedness and spirit required to pivot when your plans have been uprooted due to collective or personal events not imagined much less foreseen, is daunting even for the most accomplished of us. In the 90s, at the height of my career, I had to learn how to reorient psychologically and spiritually as well as financially in order to move forward. Since then, my professional experience includes a clinical internship and continued advanced post grad trainings in Freudian and Jungian psychologies including archetypal patterning recognition.
My personal experiences of major illness, climate chaos and my years as a virtual executive consultant working internationally since 2000 is what distinguishes me from others.
My consulting practice is rooted in soul and informed by science. To possess the psychological mindedness and spirit required to pivot when your plans have been uprooted due to collective or personal events not imagined much less foreseen, is daunting even for the most accomplished of us. In the 90s, at the height of my career, I had to learn how to reorient psychologically and spiritually as well as financially in order to move forward. Since then, my professional experience includes a clinical internship and continued advanced post grad trainings in Freudian and Jungian psychologies including archetypal patterning recognition.
(504) 285-2863 View (504) 285-2863
Photo of Alicia C Prachar, LPC-S, LCPC, Counselor
Alicia C Prachar
Counselor, LPC-S, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78730
We see clients ages 21 and up. Seeking a therapist can be an uncomfortable process. It is important that you feel welcome and safe every time you enter your therapy session. I believe in helping you to find joy in tough times as well as in good and in creating a comfortable environment for you to process your thoughts and feelings. Laughter can bring healing. Therapy does not have to focus just on the pain. Learning to notice the good in each day can bring healing and refresh our spirit.
We see clients ages 21 and up. Seeking a therapist can be an uncomfortable process. It is important that you feel welcome and safe every time you enter your therapy session. I believe in helping you to find joy in tough times as well as in good and in creating a comfortable environment for you to process your thoughts and feelings. Laughter can bring healing. Therapy does not have to focus just on the pain. Learning to notice the good in each day can bring healing and refresh our spirit.
(515) 522-4280 View (515) 522-4280
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.