Chronic Pain Therapists in Bee Cave, TX

Photo of Alicia Valentine-Prachar - Chasing Grace Therapy, MaEd, LPC-S, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chasing Grace Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MaEd, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
Bee Cave, TX 78733
At Chasing Grace Therapy, we will walk beside you on this healing journey, helping you overcome the pain of the past, anxiety of the present or fear of the future to live a life of freedom and peace.
Georgetown and Round Rock locations! AGES 21 and up: Beginning the journey to improved mental health can seem awkward, but we are here to make the process as comfortable as possible. At Chasing Grace Therapy, we use clinically proven techniques and, if requested, will combine them with biblical wisdom to help create the best methods for real and sustained healing. We provide a non-judgmental environment of support to help you find joy and laughter in your life again.
At Chasing Grace Therapy, we will walk beside you on this healing journey, helping you overcome the pain of the past, anxiety of the present or fear of the future to live a life of freedom and peace.
Georgetown and Round Rock locations! AGES 21 and up: Beginning the journey to improved mental health can seem awkward, but we are here to make the process as comfortable as possible. At Chasing Grace Therapy, we use clinically proven techniques and, if requested, will combine them with biblical wisdom to help create the best methods for real and sustained healing. We provide a non-judgmental environment of support to help you find joy and laughter in your life again.
(512) 522-4280 View (512) 522-4280
Photo of DuEwa 'kaya' Spicer - Infinite Zen Holistic Psychotherapy, ABS, LICSW, LCSW, CCATP, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Infinite Zen Holistic Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ABS, LICSW, LCSW, CCATP, CST
Verified Verified
Bee Cave, TX 78738  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety, loneliness, issues with intimacy, and sexual desire? I am a sex-positive, non-monogamous, BDSM/KINK, LGBTQIA+ affirming relationship therapist. Let's work together! Perhaps you lack self-compassion, you are self-conscious, or maybe you're unsure about the future of your relationship. An important aspect of therapy is examining our inner world, relationships, thoughts and feelings in a safe non-judgmental space. Using an integrative approach, I aim to create a positive therapeutic relationship that promotes healing with compassionate self-exploration. Contact me today!
Are you experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety, loneliness, issues with intimacy, and sexual desire? I am a sex-positive, non-monogamous, BDSM/KINK, LGBTQIA+ affirming relationship therapist. Let's work together! Perhaps you lack self-compassion, you are self-conscious, or maybe you're unsure about the future of your relationship. An important aspect of therapy is examining our inner world, relationships, thoughts and feelings in a safe non-judgmental space. Using an integrative approach, I aim to create a positive therapeutic relationship that promotes healing with compassionate self-exploration. Contact me today!
(202) 816-6098 View (202) 816-6098
Photo of Tony Vitela - Tony Vitela, LCSW, SAP, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tony Vitela, LCSW, SAP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
Bee Cave, TX 78738
Licensed since 1993 and in private practice since 1999. Previous work-related experience includes working at a residential treatment center, youth shelter, juvenile detention center, chemical dependency unit, adolescent and adult in-patient hospital, Employee Assistance Program, crisis intervention, in-take assessments, and intensive out-patient programming. Over the past two decades, I have served individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I am a certified and approved DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
Licensed since 1993 and in private practice since 1999. Previous work-related experience includes working at a residential treatment center, youth shelter, juvenile detention center, chemical dependency unit, adolescent and adult in-patient hospital, Employee Assistance Program, crisis intervention, in-take assessments, and intensive out-patient programming. Over the past two decades, I have served individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I am a certified and approved DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
(210) 941-2132 View (210) 941-2132
Photo of Barbara Wood - Three Oaks Counseling & Psychiatry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Three Oaks Counseling & Psychiatry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Bee Cave, TX 78733
We are a group of talented and experienced mental health clinicians that provides counseling and medication management all across Austin and greater Texas. We have offices in West Lake Hills, Georgetown, and Dripping Springs. We also provide telehealth service anywhere in Texas.
We are a group of talented and experienced mental health clinicians that provides counseling and medication management all across Austin and greater Texas. We have offices in West Lake Hills, Georgetown, and Dripping Springs. We also provide telehealth service anywhere in Texas.
(512) 772-5453 View (512) 772-5453
Photo of Emily Sousa, LPC, CEC
Emily Sousa
LPC, CEC
Verified Verified
Bee Cave, TX 78738
Many of us are taught to disregard the messages our bodies and emotions carry, initiating a distrusting and confusing relationship with ourselves and others. My work often focuses on giving you the tools and felt experience to release trauma from your nervous system, create inner safety, connect to agency, establish healthy boundaries, and re-connect to your intuition. Together we’ll work to (re)discover your relationship with your true inner voice. Through this connection and awareness, you can learn to trust yourselves and navigate through life’s obstacles and challenges with flexibility and resilience.
Many of us are taught to disregard the messages our bodies and emotions carry, initiating a distrusting and confusing relationship with ourselves and others. My work often focuses on giving you the tools and felt experience to release trauma from your nervous system, create inner safety, connect to agency, establish healthy boundaries, and re-connect to your intuition. Together we’ll work to (re)discover your relationship with your true inner voice. Through this connection and awareness, you can learn to trust yourselves and navigate through life’s obstacles and challenges with flexibility and resilience.
(512) 399-0041 View (512) 399-0041
Photo of Sascha Webb - The Well Counseling Center, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC, LCPC, TBRI, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Well Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC, LCPC, TBRI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bee Cave, TX 78733
The Well is a professional mental health practice with a team of clinicians serving Texas. We sincerely believe there is hope for all who are willing to seek help, no matter what their situation. With an integrated approach, using psychological proven techniques and skills from a Christian foundation, we draw from a variety of methodologies to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. We tailor our skills and therapeutic interventions to meet our individual client’s with love and understanding. Sascha is a advanced clinical supervising specialist for teen, child, marital, and online therapy.
The Well is a professional mental health practice with a team of clinicians serving Texas. We sincerely believe there is hope for all who are willing to seek help, no matter what their situation. With an integrated approach, using psychological proven techniques and skills from a Christian foundation, we draw from a variety of methodologies to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. We tailor our skills and therapeutic interventions to meet our individual client’s with love and understanding. Sascha is a advanced clinical supervising specialist for teen, child, marital, and online therapy.
(469) 290-0502 View (469) 290-0502
Photo of Jana Drew, PhD, Psychologist
Jana Drew
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bee Cave, TX 78738
Not accepting new clients
Depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life stress, trauma--all can be overwhelming and hard to sort through on your own. As an experienced licensed psychologist, I can help you address these problems effectively. Using mindfulness and other evidence-based therapy approaches, I'll help you regain control and satisfaction in your life. In therapy we will collaborate in a supportive and caring way to identify your goals, develop an effective treatment plan, and move you to that better, more joyful place in life.
Depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life stress, trauma--all can be overwhelming and hard to sort through on your own. As an experienced licensed psychologist, I can help you address these problems effectively. Using mindfulness and other evidence-based therapy approaches, I'll help you regain control and satisfaction in your life. In therapy we will collaborate in a supportive and caring way to identify your goals, develop an effective treatment plan, and move you to that better, more joyful place in life.
(512) 400-2207 View (512) 400-2207
Photo of Terry Rauschuber - Terry Rauschuber - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terry Rauschuber - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bee Cave, TX 78733
Not accepting new clients
Terry Rauschuber is a Licensed Certified Social Worker with a master’s degree from The University of Texas at Austin. She is a mental health therapist with over 20 years of successful experience working with adults and seniors with depression and anxiety. She applies techniques to develop skills to learn how to manage negative thought processes and develop alternative thinking patterns. Terry’s experience in hospitals and psychiatric hospitals provides a wealth of knowledge of treatment modalities as well as maneuvering through the maze of healthcare. EMDR Trained
Terry Rauschuber is a Licensed Certified Social Worker with a master’s degree from The University of Texas at Austin. She is a mental health therapist with over 20 years of successful experience working with adults and seniors with depression and anxiety. She applies techniques to develop skills to learn how to manage negative thought processes and develop alternative thinking patterns. Terry’s experience in hospitals and psychiatric hospitals provides a wealth of knowledge of treatment modalities as well as maneuvering through the maze of healthcare. EMDR Trained
(512) 640-2161 View (512) 640-2161

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kelly Pastori, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Pastori
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Trauma and abuse: spiritual, emotional, sexual, physical, racial; Nervous system psychoeducation, anxiety/depression; Boundaries and codependency; Non Monogamy and Polyamory;Sexual identity development, Evangelical fundamentalist Purity culture recovery; White identity development; Chronic illness, unidentified physical pain and stress, psychosomatic stress.
At the heart of my work, I approach therapy from a relational, psychodynamic therapy model, which means I believe the relationship between the client and therapist can be a transformative component in the growth process. I am a LPC combining modern neurobiology with holistic somatic healing, the psychodynamic therapeutic relationship, and body-based practices to create an experiential awakening on a bodily, psychological and emotional level. I work from a somatic-centered therapeutic approach, meaning that I believe that the body tells the stories and narratives. For more information, my website is: www.kellypastori.com
Trauma and abuse: spiritual, emotional, sexual, physical, racial; Nervous system psychoeducation, anxiety/depression; Boundaries and codependency; Non Monogamy and Polyamory;Sexual identity development, Evangelical fundamentalist Purity culture recovery; White identity development; Chronic illness, unidentified physical pain and stress, psychosomatic stress.
At the heart of my work, I approach therapy from a relational, psychodynamic therapy model, which means I believe the relationship between the client and therapist can be a transformative component in the growth process. I am a LPC combining modern neurobiology with holistic somatic healing, the psychodynamic therapeutic relationship, and body-based practices to create an experiential awakening on a bodily, psychological and emotional level. I work from a somatic-centered therapeutic approach, meaning that I believe that the body tells the stories and narratives. For more information, my website is: www.kellypastori.com
(512) 598-5003 View (512) 598-5003
Photo of Bryan Snead - DeepWatersLPC, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
DeepWatersLPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78732  (Online Only)
We specialize in helping people just like you to overcome depression and anxiety, traumatic experiences, relational distress and struggles, and even chronic pain.
What would it be like to wake up in the morning and be excited about the day? To have hope? To experience more than just relief, but real joy?
We specialize in helping people just like you to overcome depression and anxiety, traumatic experiences, relational distress and struggles, and even chronic pain.
What would it be like to wake up in the morning and be excited about the day? To have hope? To experience more than just relief, but real joy?
(737) 352-4987 View (737) 352-4987
Photo of Dr. Lauren Necesario Smith, PsyD, HSPP, Psychologist
Dr. Lauren Necesario Smith
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and chronic pain in teens to older adults.
You find yourself wanting to stay busy because slowing down makes you think too much about everything. You notice guilt or shame come up when you want to say no to someone. These days, yelling or slamming doors is the only thing that helps when that irritable or angry feeling takes over your body. You wish you could find other ways to deal but it seems like nothing is helping and you don't know what to do.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and chronic pain in teens to older adults.
You find yourself wanting to stay busy because slowing down makes you think too much about everything. You notice guilt or shame come up when you want to say no to someone. These days, yelling or slamming doors is the only thing that helps when that irritable or angry feeling takes over your body. You wish you could find other ways to deal but it seems like nothing is helping and you don't know what to do.
(765) 232-3965 View (765) 232-3965
Photo of Pamela Steele, MS, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Primarily, I have worked in the areas of chronic pain, stress reduction, trauma, anger management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, abuse, family relations, and self-empowerment.
Breathe... Now breathe again. Let go of negative emotions and thoughts, and allow more of what you really, really want. No matter what obstacles are presenting in your life experience right now, we can begin an integrative journey together, with a simple breath. Feelings and emotions are true indicators to help guide you to what you want more of in life. We can focus and become more aware of choices and positive options, and ultimately remove self-limiting beliefs. We can learn to make decisions with more clarity and awareness, leading you to a more joyful and fuller life.
Primarily, I have worked in the areas of chronic pain, stress reduction, trauma, anger management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, abuse, family relations, and self-empowerment.
Breathe... Now breathe again. Let go of negative emotions and thoughts, and allow more of what you really, really want. No matter what obstacles are presenting in your life experience right now, we can begin an integrative journey together, with a simple breath. Feelings and emotions are true indicators to help guide you to what you want more of in life. We can focus and become more aware of choices and positive options, and ultimately remove self-limiting beliefs. We can learn to make decisions with more clarity and awareness, leading you to a more joyful and fuller life.
(512) 882-1766 View (512) 882-1766
Photo of Elizanda de la Sota, Psychologist
Elizanda de la Sota
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
If you want to create change in your life and prefer a therapist who is dynamic and directive, then I could be a good fit for you. Clients who do well with me want to understand themselves and are willing to be challenged and are committed to growth. I am best suited to dealing with depression, anxiety, health issues, substance abuse problems, and relationship issues. I have special training in Pain Management, Mind-Body Issues in Health, and Sexual Dysfunction
If you want to create change in your life and prefer a therapist who is dynamic and directive, then I could be a good fit for you. Clients who do well with me want to understand themselves and are willing to be challenged and are committed to growth. I am best suited to dealing with depression, anxiety, health issues, substance abuse problems, and relationship issues. I have special training in Pain Management, Mind-Body Issues in Health, and Sexual Dysfunction
(512) 379-6526 View (512) 379-6526
Photo of Molly Cook, LCSW-S, LCDC, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakeway, TX 78734
Waitlist for new clients
You just want to feel happy, healthy, and confident. Instead you often feel overwhelmed, unsure, or disconnected. Fully connecting with our authentic self and others seems impossible. Sometimes our stress levels are too high or our traumatic life experiences get in the way of finding peace & fulfillment. I'm a firm believer that every person has the capacity for transformational healing. If you're ready to navigate the complexities of life including things like trauma, addiction, chronic pain, or dysfunctional family dynamics with a compassionate guide, you're in the right place.
You just want to feel happy, healthy, and confident. Instead you often feel overwhelmed, unsure, or disconnected. Fully connecting with our authentic self and others seems impossible. Sometimes our stress levels are too high or our traumatic life experiences get in the way of finding peace & fulfillment. I'm a firm believer that every person has the capacity for transformational healing. If you're ready to navigate the complexities of life including things like trauma, addiction, chronic pain, or dysfunctional family dynamics with a compassionate guide, you're in the right place.
(469) 382-4407 View (469) 382-4407
Photo of Robin Marie Hendershot - Robin Hendershot, LPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robin Hendershot, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I assist clients with: Depression/Anxiety, Life Skills (effective communication, financial literacy), LGBT issues, Healthy Relationships & Boundaries, Chronic Pain & Illness, and Grief & Loss.
Hello and welcome. I am currently accepting new patients for Individual and Couples Counseling. If you are searching for a therapist, I imagine you are experiencing some feelings of pain and disconnection. We all want to be loved, seen, and understood; but oftentimes in life we find ourselves engaging in unhealthy relationship patterns, unhelpful communication styles, and harmful behaviors. Therapy offers a powerful tool for growth, connection, and insight. The heart of successful therapy is the client-therapist relationship. I would be honored to speak with you about your goals to see if I can be of service to you.
I assist clients with: Depression/Anxiety, Life Skills (effective communication, financial literacy), LGBT issues, Healthy Relationships & Boundaries, Chronic Pain & Illness, and Grief & Loss.
Hello and welcome. I am currently accepting new patients for Individual and Couples Counseling. If you are searching for a therapist, I imagine you are experiencing some feelings of pain and disconnection. We all want to be loved, seen, and understood; but oftentimes in life we find ourselves engaging in unhealthy relationship patterns, unhelpful communication styles, and harmful behaviors. Therapy offers a powerful tool for growth, connection, and insight. The heart of successful therapy is the client-therapist relationship. I would be honored to speak with you about your goals to see if I can be of service to you.
(512) 572-3210 View (512) 572-3210
Photo of Kathleen Adams, PhD, CGP, Psychologist
Kathleen Adams
Psychologist, PhD, CGP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746  (Online Only)
Pain exists to make us pay attention. Trying desperately not to hurt, we compromise our integrity, our hearts and our sense of self, on some misguided mission to be invulnerable, to please, to care-take, or just to belong...Somewhere along the way, our vision of ourselves loses focus. Therapy can help create a new template for living. Research shows us that the brain can actually re-wire itself in the context of a secure relationship, developing new capacities for self-soothing, obtaining perspective, and being intimate. I believe that all suffering bears embedded gifts, if we look hard enough.
Pain exists to make us pay attention. Trying desperately not to hurt, we compromise our integrity, our hearts and our sense of self, on some misguided mission to be invulnerable, to please, to care-take, or just to belong...Somewhere along the way, our vision of ourselves loses focus. Therapy can help create a new template for living. Research shows us that the brain can actually re-wire itself in the context of a secure relationship, developing new capacities for self-soothing, obtaining perspective, and being intimate. I believe that all suffering bears embedded gifts, if we look hard enough.
(361) 596-3981 View (361) 596-3981
Photo of Lisa Medina, MA, LCDC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Lisa Medina
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCDC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78732
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in serving adults living with Substance Use Disorders, trauma and/or mental illness.
My mission is to create hope where there is none and to empower the individuals I work with to find healing. Healing will be defined by YOU - I will operate as an active guide throughout the process. I offer private counseling to individuals and their family members/significant others who are struggling with alcohol and/or drug use. I am able to help craft safety plans, moderation plans or abstinence plans based on your goals. I will assist you to create balance in your mental, emotional, physical and spiritual health.
I specialize in serving adults living with Substance Use Disorders, trauma and/or mental illness.
My mission is to create hope where there is none and to empower the individuals I work with to find healing. Healing will be defined by YOU - I will operate as an active guide throughout the process. I offer private counseling to individuals and their family members/significant others who are struggling with alcohol and/or drug use. I am able to help craft safety plans, moderation plans or abstinence plans based on your goals. I will assist you to create balance in your mental, emotional, physical and spiritual health.
(512) 271-4304 View (512) 271-4304
Photo of Brittany (Neece) Whallen, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittany (Neece) Whallen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78733
Many of our clients come to us for issues including: Relationship struggles; Grief and Loss (including the death or loss of a loved one, loss of a job, and divorce); Anxiety; Depression; Traumatic experiences; EMDR; Life transitional issues; Difficulty within the family system; and Chronic Pain (Specifically pelvic pain).
We all go through complicated situations, some of which we don’t feel adequately prepared to handle. Most of us were never taught how to navigate these difficult struggles in healthy, constructive ways. That's why we are here. My clinical team works with a diverse variety of clientele to provide affordable counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. We want to work with you to help you overcome obstacles that you are facing, improve on aspects in your current life situation, and provide a sense of strength and hope during times that you may feel lost. Please call us for a free phone consultation.
Many of our clients come to us for issues including: Relationship struggles; Grief and Loss (including the death or loss of a loved one, loss of a job, and divorce); Anxiety; Depression; Traumatic experiences; EMDR; Life transitional issues; Difficulty within the family system; and Chronic Pain (Specifically pelvic pain).
We all go through complicated situations, some of which we don’t feel adequately prepared to handle. Most of us were never taught how to navigate these difficult struggles in healthy, constructive ways. That's why we are here. My clinical team works with a diverse variety of clientele to provide affordable counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. We want to work with you to help you overcome obstacles that you are facing, improve on aspects in your current life situation, and provide a sense of strength and hope during times that you may feel lost. Please call us for a free phone consultation.
(512) 814-6027 View (512) 814-6027
Photo of Katherine Kainer,  PsyD, Psychologist
Katherine Kainer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78736
Hello! My name is Dr. Katherine (Katie) Kainer and I am a licensed psychologist based in San Antonio, TX. I am the owner of ReNew Psychological Services, PLLC, and provide virtual therapy to clients all over Texas. I work with adults who experience various difficulties, including depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, anger, stress, body image, relational, communication, life transition/adjustment, grief/loss, burnout, work stress, perfectionism, self-esteem, family conflict, chronic pain, neurocognitive, military/veteran-related, and college mental health concerns.
Hello! My name is Dr. Katherine (Katie) Kainer and I am a licensed psychologist based in San Antonio, TX. I am the owner of ReNew Psychological Services, PLLC, and provide virtual therapy to clients all over Texas. I work with adults who experience various difficulties, including depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, anger, stress, body image, relational, communication, life transition/adjustment, grief/loss, burnout, work stress, perfectionism, self-esteem, family conflict, chronic pain, neurocognitive, military/veteran-related, and college mental health concerns.
(726) 224-7611 View (726) 224-7611
Photo of Katy Adams, LMFT-S, LPC, SEP, CCTP, RYT-200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katy Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT-S, LPC, SEP, CCTP, RYT-200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I offer somatic psychotherapy (touch and tablework) for people who are working on trauma, relationship and attachment issues. This work may also bring up family of origin issues that may also be unresolved. I combine somatic, IFS, and attachment modalities. My somatic training also provides expertise in helping those with chronic illness or pain and how this is related to mental health. Somatic work also is for those with after-effects of surgeries or accidents.
I offer somatic psychotherapy (touch and tablework) for people who are working on trauma, relationship and attachment issues. This work may also bring up family of origin issues that may also be unresolved. I combine somatic, IFS, and attachment modalities. My somatic training also provides expertise in helping those with chronic illness or pain and how this is related to mental health. Somatic work also is for those with after-effects of surgeries or accidents.
(512) 900-7267 View (512) 900-7267

See more therapy options for Bee Cave

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.