Chronic Pain Therapists in DFW, TX

Photo of Debra Ellis - Debra Ellis - Ellis Counseling Agency, LPC-S, LBSW, ACBSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debra Ellis - Ellis Counseling Agency
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LBSW, ACBSW
Verified Verified
DFW, TX 75261
Welcome to Ellis Counseling Agency! As an experienced behavioral specialist, I am committed to offering extensive support for a variety of challenges that you or your family may be facing. My specialty is nurturing personal well-being, catering to both individuals and families. With the goal of steering you towards realizing your full potential, I am honored to possess dual licenses as a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Social Worker. Over my expansive career spanning more than 25 years in behavioral health, substance abuse, case management, and medical social work, I have gained priceless experience.
Welcome to Ellis Counseling Agency! As an experienced behavioral specialist, I am committed to offering extensive support for a variety of challenges that you or your family may be facing. My specialty is nurturing personal well-being, catering to both individuals and families. With the goal of steering you towards realizing your full potential, I am honored to possess dual licenses as a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Social Worker. Over my expansive career spanning more than 25 years in behavioral health, substance abuse, case management, and medical social work, I have gained priceless experience.
(214) 241-4093 View (214) 241-4093
Photo of Janice Rose-Gill - Janice Rose-Gill, LPC, LCAT, PCC, LPC, ATR-BC, LCAT, PCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janice Rose-Gill, LPC, LCAT, PCC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC, LCAT, PCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
DFW, TX 75261  (Online Only)
Janice places an emphasis on building relationships with transparency and authenticity. Janice is flexible in her therapeutic approach, allowing her to tailor your therapy to focus on your specific needs. Among Janice’s areas of expertise are the treatment of anxiety and depressive disorders, stress, major life transitions, and career exploration.
Janice places an emphasis on building relationships with transparency and authenticity. Janice is flexible in her therapeutic approach, allowing her to tailor your therapy to focus on your specific needs. Among Janice’s areas of expertise are the treatment of anxiety and depressive disorders, stress, major life transitions, and career exploration.
(469) 306-1543 View (469) 306-1543
Photo of Laura M Wright, LPC-S, RYT 200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura M Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RYT 200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
DFW, TX 75261
Waitlist for new clients
Laura Wright is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor in the state of Texas. She holds a Bachelors of Science in Psychology and a Masters of Science in Counseling from University of North Texas. She is also a Registered Yoga teacher. Laura supports client though issues related to trauma, attachment/relationships, gender/identity, behavioral issues, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, divorce and more. Supervision to LPC Associates is also available. Based on client preference and needs, sessions are held in office, virtually or in the natural world. Visit www.UnEarthedTherapyAndYoga.com to learn more!
Laura Wright is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor in the state of Texas. She holds a Bachelors of Science in Psychology and a Masters of Science in Counseling from University of North Texas. She is also a Registered Yoga teacher. Laura supports client though issues related to trauma, attachment/relationships, gender/identity, behavioral issues, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, divorce and more. Supervision to LPC Associates is also available. Based on client preference and needs, sessions are held in office, virtually or in the natural world. Visit www.UnEarthedTherapyAndYoga.com to learn more!
(817) 500-5047 View (817) 500-5047
Photo of Jason Paul Francis, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason Paul Francis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
DFW, TX 75261
(254) 735-1811 View (254) 735-1811

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cherie Spellman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cherie Spellman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grapevine, TX 76051
Get unstuck, heal from trauma, and find relief from physical pain and tension. I provide individualized therapy to every unique person, helping you to find new ways to grow, change, and connect to yourself and others. I help clients with physical and emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, sport injury and sport performance, PTSD, stuck patterns of behavior, unwanted emotional reactions, and performance and creativity enhancement. Client's response to the body/brain approach is awe in noticing things they never have and making new connections that are felt in a way that they can actually take action on.
Get unstuck, heal from trauma, and find relief from physical pain and tension. I provide individualized therapy to every unique person, helping you to find new ways to grow, change, and connect to yourself and others. I help clients with physical and emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, sport injury and sport performance, PTSD, stuck patterns of behavior, unwanted emotional reactions, and performance and creativity enhancement. Client's response to the body/brain approach is awe in noticing things they never have and making new connections that are felt in a way that they can actually take action on.
(682) 228-3790 View (682) 228-3790
Photo of Jo Anne Sheehan Spears, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jo Anne Sheehan Spears
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75220
Life is too short to live in pain, fear or without joy. I love to help clients resolve issues, improve relationships and find the joy in their life. If you are ready to work to discover why you keep repeating the same problems or situations or you struggle with feeling down or anxious, then I am ready to help you find solutions.
Life is too short to live in pain, fear or without joy. I love to help clients resolve issues, improve relationships and find the joy in their life. If you are ready to work to discover why you keep repeating the same problems or situations or you struggle with feeling down or anxious, then I am ready to help you find solutions.
(214) 296-0101 View (214) 296-0101
Photo of Susan D Gifford, PhD, FICPP, LMFT, Psychologist
Susan D Gifford
Psychologist, PhD, FICPP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Colleyville, TX 76034
I have practiced for more than 25 years. I treat individuals and families, marriages, and children, as well as chronic pain patients. I teach skills, and prepare individualized treatment plans which integrate your goals and the skills you can practice to achieve your goals. I also do assessments, for ADHD, learning differences, and personality testing. I use cognitive rational therapy to assist you in working toward your goals as efficiently as you choose.
I have practiced for more than 25 years. I treat individuals and families, marriages, and children, as well as chronic pain patients. I teach skills, and prepare individualized treatment plans which integrate your goals and the skills you can practice to achieve your goals. I also do assessments, for ADHD, learning differences, and personality testing. I use cognitive rational therapy to assist you in working toward your goals as efficiently as you choose.
(682) 243-5387 View (682) 243-5387
Photo of Chase K Torres, LCSW, PsyD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chase K Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Colleyville, TX 76034
I enjoy and have extensive training working with individuals experiencing chronic pain and various other physical health ailments.
The saying, "It is the relationship that heals," is of central focus with my work with clients. I aim to accompany them as they gain insight into their situation and who they are as an individual. This results in added options in managing and enhancing life. We know that problematic areas are multi-determined and multi-layered. Examining and understanding the inter relatedness of all the forces of life allows for overall growth and symptom reduction. This process is a powerful ingredient that spurs lasting change across life stages, relationships and the overall experience of life.
I enjoy and have extensive training working with individuals experiencing chronic pain and various other physical health ailments.
The saying, "It is the relationship that heals," is of central focus with my work with clients. I aim to accompany them as they gain insight into their situation and who they are as an individual. This results in added options in managing and enhancing life. We know that problematic areas are multi-determined and multi-layered. Examining and understanding the inter relatedness of all the forces of life allows for overall growth and symptom reduction. This process is a powerful ingredient that spurs lasting change across life stages, relationships and the overall experience of life.
(817) 241-2360 View (817) 241-2360
Photo of Elizabeth Cooper, MS, LPC, Counselor
Elizabeth Cooper
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Prairie, TX 75050
Life's challenges can leave us feeling stuck or isolated as if we need to hide our pain and carry these burdens alone. But what happens if these burdens are too heavy to bear? That's where I come in. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am here to offer you a guiding hand through some of life's toughest moments. Whether you're navigating a miscarriage, adjusting to life postpartum, or grappling with depression or anxiety, you don't have to face it alone. Together, we can work to move through these changes and onto the next chapter of your life.
Life's challenges can leave us feeling stuck or isolated as if we need to hide our pain and carry these burdens alone. But what happens if these burdens are too heavy to bear? That's where I come in. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am here to offer you a guiding hand through some of life's toughest moments. Whether you're navigating a miscarriage, adjusting to life postpartum, or grappling with depression or anxiety, you don't have to face it alone. Together, we can work to move through these changes and onto the next chapter of your life.
(469) 828-2319 View (469) 828-2319
Photo of Allison Barton - Allison Barton, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Barton, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Euless, TX 76039
We all face difficult and confusing times. My goal is to assist clients in a confidential and compassionate environment by providing therapy services in the home. My specialties include issues of aging, grief and bereavement, chronic illness, and life transitions. I spent many years working as a hospice social worker. It was a natural transition to have a practice that comes to the client', hopefully with dignity and humor. I have a passion for senior issues and learn from my clients daily.
We all face difficult and confusing times. My goal is to assist clients in a confidential and compassionate environment by providing therapy services in the home. My specialties include issues of aging, grief and bereavement, chronic illness, and life transitions. I spent many years working as a hospice social worker. It was a natural transition to have a practice that comes to the client', hopefully with dignity and humor. I have a passion for senior issues and learn from my clients daily.
(214) 919-0011 View (214) 919-0011
Photo of Radu Pop, PhD, Psychologist
Radu Pop
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colleyville, TX 76034
I help adults and adolescents who are dealing with depression, anxiety, life stressors, chronic illness, and relationship concerns. Through my clinical work, I understand that living with mental health symptoms impacts everything one does in daily life. Sometimes the result might be irritability and sadness, while at other times things can feel overwhelming and anxiety inducing. With specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), health psychology and mood issues, I help clients identify their unique needs and establish achievable goals.
I help adults and adolescents who are dealing with depression, anxiety, life stressors, chronic illness, and relationship concerns. Through my clinical work, I understand that living with mental health symptoms impacts everything one does in daily life. Sometimes the result might be irritability and sadness, while at other times things can feel overwhelming and anxiety inducing. With specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), health psychology and mood issues, I help clients identify their unique needs and establish achievable goals.
(469) 789-1889 x2 View (469) 789-1889 x2
Photo of Gloria Ester Gonzalez, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gloria Ester Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
I have worked with children, teens, and adults with a variety of problems like families involved with CPS, parenting skills, mental illness, addiction treatment for individuals & their families, unemployed individuals (career counseling), depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, anger issues, bullying, marital problems, self-injury, abuse, grief, & many more.
There is not a specific type of therapeutic style or approach that works for everyone: age, ethnicity, all of this may play a part into stressors and how we cope with them. Therefore, the services are built around the individuals or family needs, focusing on strengths and values. I believe there is nothing we can’t overcome and the first step is seeking the help. Therapy is about acquiring the tools we need when faced with adversity. If you’re reading this, then you’re already on your way to change. Life is full of challenges, struggles, and stressful situations. WE have all been there before.
I have worked with children, teens, and adults with a variety of problems like families involved with CPS, parenting skills, mental illness, addiction treatment for individuals & their families, unemployed individuals (career counseling), depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, anger issues, bullying, marital problems, self-injury, abuse, grief, & many more.
There is not a specific type of therapeutic style or approach that works for everyone: age, ethnicity, all of this may play a part into stressors and how we cope with them. Therefore, the services are built around the individuals or family needs, focusing on strengths and values. I believe there is nothing we can’t overcome and the first step is seeking the help. Therapy is about acquiring the tools we need when faced with adversity. If you’re reading this, then you’re already on your way to change. Life is full of challenges, struggles, and stressful situations. WE have all been there before.
(325) 221-2847 View (325) 221-2847
Photo of Anna Johnson Thomas, PhD, Psychologist
Anna Johnson Thomas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75220
Waitlist for new clients
I work with older adolescents and adults experiencing a range of difficulties, including those who are struggling with anxiety, mood, stress, grief and life transitions. I am also uniquely trained as a health psychologist and have worked with individuals coping with a host of medical issues including women's issues, cancer, HIV, irritable bowel disease, diabetes, chronic pain and burn injury. Additionally, I often work with caregivers and patient's families. When appropriate and with permission, I will collaborate with one's treatment team (physicians, psychiatrists and specialists) to provide comprehensive care.
I work with older adolescents and adults experiencing a range of difficulties, including those who are struggling with anxiety, mood, stress, grief and life transitions. I am also uniquely trained as a health psychologist and have worked with individuals coping with a host of medical issues including women's issues, cancer, HIV, irritable bowel disease, diabetes, chronic pain and burn injury. Additionally, I often work with caregivers and patient's families. When appropriate and with permission, I will collaborate with one's treatment team (physicians, psychiatrists and specialists) to provide comprehensive care.
(214) 760-6824 View (214) 760-6824
Photo of Mathias Ngwa, PsyD, ABSNP, LPA, ICP, Psychological Associate
Mathias Ngwa
Psychological Associate, PsyD, ABSNP, LPA, ICP
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76006
Are you looking for a psychological/neuropsychological evaluation and/or a medication free treatment for attention, sleep, migraine, anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, headache, or traumatic brain injury problems? Are you a struggling learner seeking ways to improve performance at school, sports or work? Do you have a history of autism spectrum, ADD/ADHD, fetal alcohol syndrome, language and communication problems, Down’s Syndrome, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, concussion, stroke, memory difficulties, chronic illness, motor and balance coordination, developmental delay, Parkinson’s, or multiple sclerosis?
Are you looking for a psychological/neuropsychological evaluation and/or a medication free treatment for attention, sleep, migraine, anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, headache, or traumatic brain injury problems? Are you a struggling learner seeking ways to improve performance at school, sports or work? Do you have a history of autism spectrum, ADD/ADHD, fetal alcohol syndrome, language and communication problems, Down’s Syndrome, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, concussion, stroke, memory difficulties, chronic illness, motor and balance coordination, developmental delay, Parkinson’s, or multiple sclerosis?
(682) 204-6546 View (682) 204-6546
Photo of Michelle Salzman, MA, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Salzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irving, TX 75039  (Online Only)
I have helped many clients improve and find relief while struggling with anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, trauma, wellness, recovery from a narcissistic partner, chronic illness/pain, women's hormonal issues, infertility, EMDR and Pain Reprocessing Therapy and many others.
Acting like everything is okay but secretly falling apart? Need change? I can help. I work with women and men ages 18 & up. My specialties include anxiety, depression, gaslighting, spiritual abuse, divorce recovery, chronic illness/pain, & hormonal imbalance. I use EMDR, DBT and PRT interventions. Our sessions would be online only. I can see you wherever you are in Texas. Contact me today! I am available for supervision of motivated LPC-A's looking for a quality supervisor in the state of Texas. I offer Christian counseling/ supervision when requested. Paneled with BCBS- PPO, Cigna, UHC, and Aetna.
I have helped many clients improve and find relief while struggling with anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, trauma, wellness, recovery from a narcissistic partner, chronic illness/pain, women's hormonal issues, infertility, EMDR and Pain Reprocessing Therapy and many others.
Acting like everything is okay but secretly falling apart? Need change? I can help. I work with women and men ages 18 & up. My specialties include anxiety, depression, gaslighting, spiritual abuse, divorce recovery, chronic illness/pain, & hormonal imbalance. I use EMDR, DBT and PRT interventions. Our sessions would be online only. I can see you wherever you are in Texas. Contact me today! I am available for supervision of motivated LPC-A's looking for a quality supervisor in the state of Texas. I offer Christian counseling/ supervision when requested. Paneled with BCBS- PPO, Cigna, UHC, and Aetna.
(682) 334-8621 View (682) 334-8621
Photo of Chelsea Apree Clicque - Dallas Therapeutic Services, PsyD, LPC, LCDC, Psychologist
Dallas Therapeutic Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75063
We have 16 therapists specializing in the following: LGBTQ+, PTSD (including military/first responders), pain, OCD, child/adolescent (including play therapy), EMDR, CBT, DBT, Spanish speaking, cultural issues, eating disorders, substance use, psychosis, grief, couples, family, attachment issues and behavioral.
Dallas Therapeutic Services is a group practice uniquely managed to fit the needs of most clients! When the group formed, care was taken to choose clinicians with a variety of backgrounds and specialities. We want to provide an environment, where we can match clients with their best fit therapist. Additionally, we are able to psychological testing for ADHD, Autism, IQ (processing speed, working memory, comprehension and perceptual reasoning as well IQ score) and personality (diagnosis) - all of which can help with differentiating diagnoses and planning treatment accordingly.
We have 16 therapists specializing in the following: LGBTQ+, PTSD (including military/first responders), pain, OCD, child/adolescent (including play therapy), EMDR, CBT, DBT, Spanish speaking, cultural issues, eating disorders, substance use, psychosis, grief, couples, family, attachment issues and behavioral.
Dallas Therapeutic Services is a group practice uniquely managed to fit the needs of most clients! When the group formed, care was taken to choose clinicians with a variety of backgrounds and specialities. We want to provide an environment, where we can match clients with their best fit therapist. Additionally, we are able to psychological testing for ADHD, Autism, IQ (processing speed, working memory, comprehension and perceptual reasoning as well IQ score) and personality (diagnosis) - all of which can help with differentiating diagnoses and planning treatment accordingly.
(972) 472-4934 View (972) 472-4934
Photo of Clara N. Aragon - Living Well Family and Child Institute, PhD, MS LPC, MS Ed,, BS Ed,, Licensed Professional Counselor
Living Well Family and Child Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS LPC, MS Ed,, BS Ed,
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75062
Enjoy counseling while experiencing a natural outdoor atmosphere or in-office setting. Dr. Aragon has 20 years of experience in Academic Teaching/Research and 15 years in Educational and Family counseling. My specialty involves court appointed Child Custody Evaluations, Adoptions, weight-loss management, Chronic Pain, and family relationships (e.g., couples, youth/adolescences and young adulthood). Therapy is engaged with a primary focus on generational trauma, anxiety, depression communication styles, Identity/Self-Esteem, and intimate re-engagement after chronic illness (e.g., Alzheimer's, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, etc.)
Enjoy counseling while experiencing a natural outdoor atmosphere or in-office setting. Dr. Aragon has 20 years of experience in Academic Teaching/Research and 15 years in Educational and Family counseling. My specialty involves court appointed Child Custody Evaluations, Adoptions, weight-loss management, Chronic Pain, and family relationships (e.g., couples, youth/adolescences and young adulthood). Therapy is engaged with a primary focus on generational trauma, anxiety, depression communication styles, Identity/Self-Esteem, and intimate re-engagement after chronic illness (e.g., Alzheimer's, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, etc.)
(214) 628-7225 View (214) 628-7225
Photo of Larry Bolding, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Larry Bolding
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Prairie, TX 75050
Welcome and congratulations on taking a big step towards helping yourself. My goal is to help you lead a more satisfied and meaningful life. I am a licensed professional counselor with six years of experience in various mental health settings including community mental health, substance abuse treatment centers, and multidisciplinary rehabilitation facilities. I am experienced and enjoy working with a wide variety of issues particularly, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain and injury, and life transitions.
Welcome and congratulations on taking a big step towards helping yourself. My goal is to help you lead a more satisfied and meaningful life. I am a licensed professional counselor with six years of experience in various mental health settings including community mental health, substance abuse treatment centers, and multidisciplinary rehabilitation facilities. I am experienced and enjoy working with a wide variety of issues particularly, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain and injury, and life transitions.
(682) 204-4157 View (682) 204-4157
Photo of Adam C. Jones, PhD, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Adam C. Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Coppell, TX 75019
Two Openings Left! I specialize in working with sexual problems, family conflict, adjusting to illness and disability, addiction, and many other relationship challenges. I have a small private practice and only see clients on Fridays because I also teach full-time at a local university. I also offer a free over-the-phone consultation. You can call, email, or send a text message and we can discuss if I am a good fit for your therapy needs.
Two Openings Left! I specialize in working with sexual problems, family conflict, adjusting to illness and disability, addiction, and many other relationship challenges. I have a small private practice and only see clients on Fridays because I also teach full-time at a local university. I also offer a free over-the-phone consultation. You can call, email, or send a text message and we can discuss if I am a good fit for your therapy needs.
(940) 394-0630 View (940) 394-0630
Photo of Shawne Poplar, MA, LPC, CCATP, CFTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shawne Poplar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCATP, CFTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Has anxiety, depression, or mental health concerns related to a chronic illness taken over your life? Enlisting support is an important first step! I offer evening and weekend appointments to accommodate those with busy schedules.
Others may think you have it together, but on the inside, you’re falling apart. It feels like you can’t keep up with life’s changes, but it’s so hard to ask for help! Life feels out of control, causing you to feel lost, overwhelmed, unfulfilled, and stuck. You are not alone! I help teens and young adults with anxiety, depression, and chronic illness build skills for life’s ups and downs. With therapy, you can recognize, navigate, and decrease anxiety symptoms. Together, we will foster your resiliency, coping skills, and master goals. anxiety can feel scary, but can feel manageable once you know how it works!
Has anxiety, depression, or mental health concerns related to a chronic illness taken over your life? Enlisting support is an important first step! I offer evening and weekend appointments to accommodate those with busy schedules.
Others may think you have it together, but on the inside, you’re falling apart. It feels like you can’t keep up with life’s changes, but it’s so hard to ask for help! Life feels out of control, causing you to feel lost, overwhelmed, unfulfilled, and stuck. You are not alone! I help teens and young adults with anxiety, depression, and chronic illness build skills for life’s ups and downs. With therapy, you can recognize, navigate, and decrease anxiety symptoms. Together, we will foster your resiliency, coping skills, and master goals. anxiety can feel scary, but can feel manageable once you know how it works!
(940) 341-2455 View (940) 341-2455

See more therapy options for DFW

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.