Chronic Pain Therapists in Keller, TX

Photo of Warren T Jackson, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Warren T Jackson
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Keller, TX 76248
Dr. Warren T. Jackson provides comprehensive cognitive-behavioral treatment for a variety of adult concerns including cognitive difficulty, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and addictive/impulsive behavior disorders. For over 25 years, he has provided comprehensive psychological/neuropsychological testing to assist in diagnosis, treatment planning, and determination of disability/readiness to return to work and/or need for reasonable accommodations. He offers specialized services for executives/professionals undergoing stressors and for advanced students in college or graduate training.
Dr. Warren T. Jackson provides comprehensive cognitive-behavioral treatment for a variety of adult concerns including cognitive difficulty, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and addictive/impulsive behavior disorders. For over 25 years, he has provided comprehensive psychological/neuropsychological testing to assist in diagnosis, treatment planning, and determination of disability/readiness to return to work and/or need for reasonable accommodations. He offers specialized services for executives/professionals undergoing stressors and for advanced students in college or graduate training.
(404) 905-1959 View (404) 905-1959
Photo of Dr. Sarah Lorenz, LPC-S, NCC, CCTP, CCATP, C-PD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Sarah Lorenz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, CCTP, CCATP, C-PD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Keller, TX 76248  (Online Only)
I have 17+ years of clinical experience, and I have certifications and expertise in these 3 areas: 1) Anxiety and related disorders, 2) Mental Health Medical Rehabilitation from illness or injury, 3) Personality disorders and their loved ones.
You have taken a brave first step in searching for a therapist. I recognize how difficult finding the right fit can be, and I will try my best to help and support you in this process. If you feel on edge and find it difficult to control the worrying, suffered a traumatic experience, or are going through a stressful life situation, your thoughts may effect how you feel. Things may seem hopeless; perhaps you feel alone and vulnerable. Imagine how it could feel to not constantly worry or that every day is a struggle, but instead regain meaning, fulfillment, and at peace. Are you ready to take the next brave step?
I have 17+ years of clinical experience, and I have certifications and expertise in these 3 areas: 1) Anxiety and related disorders, 2) Mental Health Medical Rehabilitation from illness or injury, 3) Personality disorders and their loved ones.
You have taken a brave first step in searching for a therapist. I recognize how difficult finding the right fit can be, and I will try my best to help and support you in this process. If you feel on edge and find it difficult to control the worrying, suffered a traumatic experience, or are going through a stressful life situation, your thoughts may effect how you feel. Things may seem hopeless; perhaps you feel alone and vulnerable. Imagine how it could feel to not constantly worry or that every day is a struggle, but instead regain meaning, fulfillment, and at peace. Are you ready to take the next brave step?
(682) 452-6786 View (682) 452-6786
Photo of Sarah Rhoten, MA, LPC-A
Sarah Rhoten
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Keller, TX 76248
Some of my specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse, chronic illness/pain, grief and loss, caregiver burnout, relationship issues, self-esteem and self-worth, overeating/weight issues, stress management, spiritual concerns, financial problems, and career counseling.
As a therapist, I seek to empower my clients with the knowledge that they hold the key to their well being and help them develop the skills they need to access this ability on a daily basis. My compassion, empathy, and love of people along with my own life journey is what compelled me to enter the field of counseling. My primary theoretical model is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), combined with faith-based counseling. My counseling philosophy is from a holistic point of view addressing the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of a person. I also believe therapy must be tailored to the individual as no two people are the same.
Some of my specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse, chronic illness/pain, grief and loss, caregiver burnout, relationship issues, self-esteem and self-worth, overeating/weight issues, stress management, spiritual concerns, financial problems, and career counseling.
As a therapist, I seek to empower my clients with the knowledge that they hold the key to their well being and help them develop the skills they need to access this ability on a daily basis. My compassion, empathy, and love of people along with my own life journey is what compelled me to enter the field of counseling. My primary theoretical model is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), combined with faith-based counseling. My counseling philosophy is from a holistic point of view addressing the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of a person. I also believe therapy must be tailored to the individual as no two people are the same.
(682) 327-5128 View (682) 327-5128
Photo of Leslie M Faris, PhD, Psychologist
Leslie M Faris
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76244
(chronic illness, chronic pain, grief/loss).
In everyone’s life there comes a time when struggles seem overwhelming. During times like these, it takes a strong person to ask for help. If you are reading this, chances are you are at that point, and I commend you for that inner strength that is looking for resolution. I’d like to help you find that resolution. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have extensive training and experience in helping children, adolescents and adults with a variety of issues. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and stress, depression and mood disorders, and health-related issues
(chronic illness, chronic pain, grief/loss).
In everyone’s life there comes a time when struggles seem overwhelming. During times like these, it takes a strong person to ask for help. If you are reading this, chances are you are at that point, and I commend you for that inner strength that is looking for resolution. I’d like to help you find that resolution. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have extensive training and experience in helping children, adolescents and adults with a variety of issues. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and stress, depression and mood disorders, and health-related issues
(682) 334-8932 View (682) 334-8932
Photo of Brian Marc Simmons, MA, LPC, CH, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Marc Simmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CH, EMDR
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76244
It can alter perception, poison our thoughts, create unwanted reactions, and cause illness.
The most recent brain/body science shows us long-term healing is difficult to achieve without changing how information travels through the nervous system. Creating these adjustments is possible if you know how. Mr. Simmons utilizes a mind/body-based treatment approach that combines relevant talk therapy modalities, psychoeducation, mindfulness and somatic stabilization techniques, along with Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing, Multichannel Eye Movement Integration (MEMI), Emotional Freedom Technique, and Trauma Informed treatment techniques to address client's presenting symptoms and achieve a variety of treatment goals.
It can alter perception, poison our thoughts, create unwanted reactions, and cause illness.
The most recent brain/body science shows us long-term healing is difficult to achieve without changing how information travels through the nervous system. Creating these adjustments is possible if you know how. Mr. Simmons utilizes a mind/body-based treatment approach that combines relevant talk therapy modalities, psychoeducation, mindfulness and somatic stabilization techniques, along with Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing, Multichannel Eye Movement Integration (MEMI), Emotional Freedom Technique, and Trauma Informed treatment techniques to address client's presenting symptoms and achieve a variety of treatment goals.
(214) 997-6484 View (214) 997-6484
Photo of Dr. Vick Perry - Ease of Mind Wellness, LLC, PsyD, MA, MS, Psychologist
Ease of Mind Wellness, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76248
On this journey call life, there are many ups and downs, twists and turns. Everyone needs someone to talk to in a comfortable non-judgmental safe atmosphere, a place providing warmth, compassion, and respect. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have learned to ask amazing questions and then listen. My primary focus is helping women who are working through issues of depression, anxiety, grief/bereavement, obesity/weight loss, chronic pain, relationship matters, everyday stressors, or work-life balance issues. A holistic comprehensive approach is tailored to consider the whole person, while exploring the interactions between the mental, physical, emotional, spiritual, and social aspects of life.
On this journey call life, there are many ups and downs, twists and turns. Everyone needs someone to talk to in a comfortable non-judgmental safe atmosphere, a place providing warmth, compassion, and respect. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have learned to ask amazing questions and then listen. My primary focus is helping women who are working through issues of depression, anxiety, grief/bereavement, obesity/weight loss, chronic pain, relationship matters, everyday stressors, or work-life balance issues. A holistic comprehensive approach is tailored to consider the whole person, while exploring the interactions between the mental, physical, emotional, spiritual, and social aspects of life.
(817) 406-3978 View (817) 406-3978
Photo of Dr. Mary Keyhan, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Mary Keyhan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Keller, TX 76248  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, or both, you know depression is more than just feeling sad and anxiety is more than just feeling worried. Depression can cause overwhelming sadness, take away your joy and motivation, and leave you feeling hopeless and alone. Anxiety may feel like a heavy weight on your chest. It can make it hard to breath or may even cause panic attacks. What you are feeling is your mind and body's way of telling you that they can't take the pain anymore. They are begging you to get help. Are you ready to listen? Are you ready to free yourself from the pain? Are you ready to feel joy and peace again?
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, or both, you know depression is more than just feeling sad and anxiety is more than just feeling worried. Depression can cause overwhelming sadness, take away your joy and motivation, and leave you feeling hopeless and alone. Anxiety may feel like a heavy weight on your chest. It can make it hard to breath or may even cause panic attacks. What you are feeling is your mind and body's way of telling you that they can't take the pain anymore. They are begging you to get help. Are you ready to listen? Are you ready to free yourself from the pain? Are you ready to feel joy and peace again?
(972) 665-8733 View (972) 665-8733
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
Keller, TX 76248
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 Marti K Riedel, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marti K Riedel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76248
My practice focuses on treating children and teens with depression, anxiety, attachment issues, eating disorders, substance abuse, attention deficit hyperactivity, and behavioral disorders. Play therapy is my primary tool to help children cope with issues as they grow and develop. Although the child is my client, I work to provide education and support to parents, as the child's primary support system.
My practice focuses on treating children and teens with depression, anxiety, attachment issues, eating disorders, substance abuse, attention deficit hyperactivity, and behavioral disorders. Play therapy is my primary tool to help children cope with issues as they grow and develop. Although the child is my client, I work to provide education and support to parents, as the child's primary support system.
(682) 243-7621 x706 View (682) 243-7621 x706
Photo of Krystal Pennington, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Krystal Pennington
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Keller, TX 76244  (Online Only)
Are you feeling as it is time for something new? Do you need some help in finding a place to begin? I am happy to explore the possibility to walk alongside you in your journey to where you would like to be. Sometimes we know what our goals are but may be unsure on what those next steps are to get there. Other times we just know we need a change but don’t know exactly what. Change can be difficult and sometimes going it alone is scary. I would be happy to walk with you on your journey and provide a safe and confidential environment where change can occur.
Are you feeling as it is time for something new? Do you need some help in finding a place to begin? I am happy to explore the possibility to walk alongside you in your journey to where you would like to be. Sometimes we know what our goals are but may be unsure on what those next steps are to get there. Other times we just know we need a change but don’t know exactly what. Change can be difficult and sometimes going it alone is scary. I would be happy to walk with you on your journey and provide a safe and confidential environment where change can occur.
(817) 241-3892 View (817) 241-3892
Photo of Tamara D. Allen Bush, CSAT, CMAT, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamara D. Allen Bush
Licensed Professional Counselor, CSAT, CMAT, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Keller, TX 76244
Counseling is a service that I am honored to provide for individuals and their families in the Dallas Ft. Worth area. I have 20+ years experience with providing a safe and confidential setting for person's new to counseling. I meet clients where they are at and try and work with their learning style at a pace that is comfortable for them. I believe that every person has worth and potential for growth. My job is to help my clients realize their options and make informed choices that promote positive growth. When people are at their best, this multiplies for them, their family and community.
Counseling is a service that I am honored to provide for individuals and their families in the Dallas Ft. Worth area. I have 20+ years experience with providing a safe and confidential setting for person's new to counseling. I meet clients where they are at and try and work with their learning style at a pace that is comfortable for them. I believe that every person has worth and potential for growth. My job is to help my clients realize their options and make informed choices that promote positive growth. When people are at their best, this multiplies for them, their family and community.
(817) 783-4410 View (817) 783-4410
Photo of Mind Above Matter - Mind Above Matter, LMSW, LPC, MD, PhD, MSSW
Mind Above Matter
LMSW, LPC, MD, PhD, MSSW
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76244
Does life seem unbearable? Are things becoming more difficult to cope with? Are you seeking help, but feel overwhelmed with the possible options? At Mind Above Matter, our unique treatment approach provides virtually all levels of care, under one roof. The advantage to our Continuity of Care Model, is that you're able to work with the same group of therapists and psychiatrists throughout your entire treatment. No more switching counselors and retelling your story over and over, and no more medication changes due to psychiatrists learning how you respond to different psychotropic medications. We offer personalized care and are locally owned and operated.
Does life seem unbearable? Are things becoming more difficult to cope with? Are you seeking help, but feel overwhelmed with the possible options? At Mind Above Matter, our unique treatment approach provides virtually all levels of care, under one roof. The advantage to our Continuity of Care Model, is that you're able to work with the same group of therapists and psychiatrists throughout your entire treatment. No more switching counselors and retelling your story over and over, and no more medication changes due to psychiatrists learning how you respond to different psychotropic medications. We offer personalized care and are locally owned and operated.
(817) 857-6577 View (817) 857-6577
Photo of Karen Simmons-Clifton (Addiction Treatment), LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Simmons-Clifton (Addiction Treatment)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76248
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(817) 826-9667 View (817) 826-9667
Photo of Hector Ventura, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hector Ventura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Keller, TX 76248  (Online Only)
Hi! I specialize in working with men. Specifically Hispanic males who struggle with depression, grief, trauma & imposter syndrome. I’m physically based in the Tampa Bay Area, I'm licensed in FL, TX, VA, UT & CT. As the son of Salvadorean immigrant parents, I’ve seen how stigma keeps men from seeking counseling. It's why I’m an advocate for mens mental health. As a therapist who's been in therapy, I also know what its like to deal with stigma. Its why I strive to have a down to earth conversation, oftentimes while drinking some "cafecito" (In English that means coffee, preferably cafe bustelo).
Hi! I specialize in working with men. Specifically Hispanic males who struggle with depression, grief, trauma & imposter syndrome. I’m physically based in the Tampa Bay Area, I'm licensed in FL, TX, VA, UT & CT. As the son of Salvadorean immigrant parents, I’ve seen how stigma keeps men from seeking counseling. It's why I’m an advocate for mens mental health. As a therapist who's been in therapy, I also know what its like to deal with stigma. Its why I strive to have a down to earth conversation, oftentimes while drinking some "cafecito" (In English that means coffee, preferably cafe bustelo).
(727) 205-8014 View (727) 205-8014
Photo of Scott Allen Smith, MA, LPC, CH, CLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scott Allen Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CH, CLC
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76248
I ACCEPT MOST MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS TO REDUCE YOUR COST. VIDEO CONFERENCING OPTION. FREE PHONE CONSULTATION - Therapy will provide another "pair of eyes" that can help you explore life to get back on track. I have significant experience in helping children and adult clients with the following: Feeling “stuck”, anxiety, stress, depression, substance abuse, childhood/family issues, couple's issues, adolescent adjustment, grief/bereavement, low self-esteem/confidence, trauma (flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, P.T.S.D. and/or abuse – sexual, physical, emotional), anger management, assertiveness, weight loss, and legal issues.
I ACCEPT MOST MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS TO REDUCE YOUR COST. VIDEO CONFERENCING OPTION. FREE PHONE CONSULTATION - Therapy will provide another "pair of eyes" that can help you explore life to get back on track. I have significant experience in helping children and adult clients with the following: Feeling “stuck”, anxiety, stress, depression, substance abuse, childhood/family issues, couple's issues, adolescent adjustment, grief/bereavement, low self-esteem/confidence, trauma (flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, P.T.S.D. and/or abuse – sexual, physical, emotional), anger management, assertiveness, weight loss, and legal issues.
(469) 770-7333 View (469) 770-7333
Brighter Possibilities Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76244
Greetings from Brighter Possibilities. Brighter Possibilities is a counseling facility located in Fort Worth, Texas. Our goal is to assist the community by providing counseling services for children, adolescents, families, couples and individuals. We want to ensure our clients find the assistance they are seeking so we give our clients the opportunity to collaborate with their therapist and choose which therapist they feel will be most helpful in achieving their desired goals. We offer services in Spanish and English and we accept most major insurances. We look forward to assisting you in discovering your Brighter Possibilities.
Greetings from Brighter Possibilities. Brighter Possibilities is a counseling facility located in Fort Worth, Texas. Our goal is to assist the community by providing counseling services for children, adolescents, families, couples and individuals. We want to ensure our clients find the assistance they are seeking so we give our clients the opportunity to collaborate with their therapist and choose which therapist they feel will be most helpful in achieving their desired goals. We offer services in Spanish and English and we accept most major insurances. We look forward to assisting you in discovering your Brighter Possibilities.
(817) 310-8412 View (817) 310-8412
Photo of Jan Holmes, PhD, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jan Holmes
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76248
I am a relationship therapist, which includes the relationship we all have with ourselves. My goal is to help you feel safe as you discuss your most difficult and emotionally charged thoughts and feelings. l am excellent at identifying the deeper issues and I give homework that is focused on symptom relief. Arguments and heated discussions between two or more people allow me to see and understand the underlying dynamics that keep people stuck. I am good at separating the issues and empowering each individual which allows the relationship to grow and change in a more satisfying way.
I am a relationship therapist, which includes the relationship we all have with ourselves. My goal is to help you feel safe as you discuss your most difficult and emotionally charged thoughts and feelings. l am excellent at identifying the deeper issues and I give homework that is focused on symptom relief. Arguments and heated discussions between two or more people allow me to see and understand the underlying dynamics that keep people stuck. I am good at separating the issues and empowering each individual which allows the relationship to grow and change in a more satisfying way.
(817) 729-7807 View (817) 729-7807
Photo of Kristine Gaenzle Salamone, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristine Gaenzle Salamone
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76248
STRUGGLING with Worry, Busy Mind, Anxiety, Low Confidence? Need RELIEF from Stress, Hot Flashes, Headaches, Insomnia, Irritable Bowel, Smoking? Want to CREATE Lasting Love, Health, Success, Happiness and Peace with yourself & others? Does your child have tics/Tourette's Syndrome? Are you interested in Clinical Hypnosis (37 yrs), Meditation & Biofeedback (38 yrs), Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction & Meditation (25 yrs); CBIT for Tourette's Syndrome (Certified 6 yrs) for your child? Are you open-minded, motivated and willing to try new ways and explore your potential?
STRUGGLING with Worry, Busy Mind, Anxiety, Low Confidence? Need RELIEF from Stress, Hot Flashes, Headaches, Insomnia, Irritable Bowel, Smoking? Want to CREATE Lasting Love, Health, Success, Happiness and Peace with yourself & others? Does your child have tics/Tourette's Syndrome? Are you interested in Clinical Hypnosis (37 yrs), Meditation & Biofeedback (38 yrs), Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction & Meditation (25 yrs); CBIT for Tourette's Syndrome (Certified 6 yrs) for your child? Are you open-minded, motivated and willing to try new ways and explore your potential?
(817) 339-6694 View (817) 339-6694
Photo of Debra Pruitt, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debra Pruitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76244  (Online Only)
Therapy is client centered addressing issues causing distress. I have been in practice for 25 years and I am licensed in Texas and Georgia. Focus is on development of skills to improve quality of life exploring influence of family of origin and self defeating behaviors that get in the way of the process of change. Overall goal is to facilitate and empower clients to make positive and lasting changes to improve quality of life.
Therapy is client centered addressing issues causing distress. I have been in practice for 25 years and I am licensed in Texas and Georgia. Focus is on development of skills to improve quality of life exploring influence of family of origin and self defeating behaviors that get in the way of the process of change. Overall goal is to facilitate and empower clients to make positive and lasting changes to improve quality of life.
(214) 233-6934 View (214) 233-6934
Photo of Diana Storey, PsyD, Psychologist
Diana Storey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Keller, TX 76248
Dr. Storey’s approach to psychotherapy aims to provide the dual approach of providing symptom relief, and diving into the root of each individual’s presenting concern. She views psychotherapy as a means to help individuals make sense of wants and needs, and to advocate for a way of being that feels empowering and in connection with their own values. She can help with identification of triggers, improving coping skills, and enhancing relaxation skills. Dr. Storey is currently accepting appointments for individual psychotherapy and couples/marital counseling, ages 18 and up, in our Southlake office, or via Telehealth.
Dr. Storey’s approach to psychotherapy aims to provide the dual approach of providing symptom relief, and diving into the root of each individual’s presenting concern. She views psychotherapy as a means to help individuals make sense of wants and needs, and to advocate for a way of being that feels empowering and in connection with their own values. She can help with identification of triggers, improving coping skills, and enhancing relaxation skills. Dr. Storey is currently accepting appointments for individual psychotherapy and couples/marital counseling, ages 18 and up, in our Southlake office, or via Telehealth.
(817) 934-4975 View (817) 934-4975
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.