Chronic Pain Therapists in Manor, TX

Photo of Stephen Boyd, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephen Boyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Manor, TX 78653  (Online Only)
I have particular experience in grief, death, and dying (I've done lots of hospice work); coping with life-threatening illness (I am a cancer survivor), anxiety, depression, and disorders involving delusion and mania.
Why do people go to therapy? Most often, it is because we are in a crisis of some kind. Although we all find crises painful, they are also opportunities for growth. In fact growth does not occur without discomfort, maybe even pain. Without that challenge, we will not grow. But we must also have support. That’s where therapy comes in. Through support and challenge, something new emerges. We don’t just get through. We grow. We come out the other side greater than we were.
I have particular experience in grief, death, and dying (I've done lots of hospice work); coping with life-threatening illness (I am a cancer survivor), anxiety, depression, and disorders involving delusion and mania.
Why do people go to therapy? Most often, it is because we are in a crisis of some kind. Although we all find crises painful, they are also opportunities for growth. In fact growth does not occur without discomfort, maybe even pain. Without that challenge, we will not grow. But we must also have support. That’s where therapy comes in. Through support and challenge, something new emerges. We don’t just get through. We grow. We come out the other side greater than we were.
(512) 686-8930 View (512) 686-8930
Photo of De Sellers, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
De Sellers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Manor, TX 78653
I draw on a wide range of psychological theories and techniques to assist my clients in cutting through the confusion and beliefs that may be holding them back from achieving their personal and professional goals. I encourage pragmatic solutions to the complexities of modern life. My practice focuses on adults, both individuals and couples. Common topics include: depression and anxiety, relationships, stress management, mid-life, chronic pain/health concerns, confidence/self esteem, parenting, addiction and recovery, sexual identity, aging. I also give individual consultations on career choice, career advancement, improving work performance, managing employees, project completion.
I draw on a wide range of psychological theories and techniques to assist my clients in cutting through the confusion and beliefs that may be holding them back from achieving their personal and professional goals. I encourage pragmatic solutions to the complexities of modern life. My practice focuses on adults, both individuals and couples. Common topics include: depression and anxiety, relationships, stress management, mid-life, chronic pain/health concerns, confidence/self esteem, parenting, addiction and recovery, sexual identity, aging. I also give individual consultations on career choice, career advancement, improving work performance, managing employees, project completion.
(512) 649-0444 View (512) 649-0444
Photo of Cynthia Lee Shelton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Lee Shelton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manor, TX 78653  (Online Only)
I bring my vast experience from being in the field for over 20 years. I am here for you. I know that seeing a therapist can be scary, but very rewarding. I believe that coming from a loving, caring place is part of the healing process. You matter. You are important. You deserve to be free from the emotional pain and struggle.
I bring my vast experience from being in the field for over 20 years. I am here for you. I know that seeing a therapist can be scary, but very rewarding. I believe that coming from a loving, caring place is part of the healing process. You matter. You are important. You deserve to be free from the emotional pain and struggle.
(512) 865-6148 View (512) 865-6148
Photo of Susanne Slay-Westbrook - A World of Respect, LPC-S, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
A World of Respect
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Manor, TX 78653  (Online Only)
Susanne Slay-Westbrook, Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Supervisor, author and founder of A World of Respect, has been helping couples, families, children and individuals of all ages overcome relational, behavioral and emotional conflicts since 1984. By applying Respect-Focused Therapy, an approach which emphasizes respect as the centerpiece of therapy, I help clients identify and overcome hurtful patterns, resolve conflicts. past or present, and develop effective coping strategies in everyday life. I've written a new book, "Respect-FocusedTherapy: Honoring Clients Through the Therapeutic Relationship and Process," Routledge Pub. Available Oct. 1, 2 016.
Susanne Slay-Westbrook, Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Supervisor, author and founder of A World of Respect, has been helping couples, families, children and individuals of all ages overcome relational, behavioral and emotional conflicts since 1984. By applying Respect-Focused Therapy, an approach which emphasizes respect as the centerpiece of therapy, I help clients identify and overcome hurtful patterns, resolve conflicts. past or present, and develop effective coping strategies in everyday life. I've written a new book, "Respect-FocusedTherapy: Honoring Clients Through the Therapeutic Relationship and Process," Routledge Pub. Available Oct. 1, 2 016.
(512) 649-0127 View (512) 649-0127
Photo of Jenn Kramer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenn Kramer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manor, TX 78653
If blah, anxious, depressed or isolated have become your new normal, let's talk. My style of therapy is relational, warm, respectful, and oriented toward supporting change when it's needed. There's not one way to do therapy because it's tailored to your needs and goals. Therapy can be a safe place to talk through difficult things, a place to grieve, a place to create plans to support behavior change, a place to develop communication and emotional IQ skills, a place to heal old wounds, a place to figure out how you want to navigate a difficult situation, and a place to figure out who you are and who you want to be.
If blah, anxious, depressed or isolated have become your new normal, let's talk. My style of therapy is relational, warm, respectful, and oriented toward supporting change when it's needed. There's not one way to do therapy because it's tailored to your needs and goals. Therapy can be a safe place to talk through difficult things, a place to grieve, a place to create plans to support behavior change, a place to develop communication and emotional IQ skills, a place to heal old wounds, a place to figure out how you want to navigate a difficult situation, and a place to figure out who you are and who you want to be.
(737) 520-3651 View (737) 520-3651
Photo of Patricia Bennett, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Manor, TX 78653  (Online Only)
Life is challenging, and sometimes it can be overwhelming. When you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or trauma, it is OK to reach out for help. All of us need that from time to time. I can provide you with a space to step back and look at where you have been and where you are headed. I can give you the support you need to make the changes that will put you back on the road to a better life.
Life is challenging, and sometimes it can be overwhelming. When you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or trauma, it is OK to reach out for help. All of us need that from time to time. I can provide you with a space to step back and look at where you have been and where you are headed. I can give you the support you need to make the changes that will put you back on the road to a better life.
(512) 337-4196 View (512) 337-4196

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of India Gardner, MA, LPC-A, LPC Intern
India Gardner
LPC Intern, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78753  (Online Only)
My specialties include TBIs and concussions, acquired and congenital disabilities, chronic illness and pain, racial identity and affirmation, mood and anxiety concerns and life transitions.
I'm India! Thank you for taking the first step on your therapeutic journey of healing and restoration with me! I'm the Founder and Therapist of Couch Conversations and Consulting, a fully online private practice offering quality mental health telehealth services for clients who prefer virtual sessions or may not be able to meet for in person sessions and are seeking a collaborative, compassionate and empowering therapy experience on the road to healing and restoration from the comfort of their own homes. I aim for my work as a therapist to be living proof of the benefits that therapy can be for one’s overall mental health.
My specialties include TBIs and concussions, acquired and congenital disabilities, chronic illness and pain, racial identity and affirmation, mood and anxiety concerns and life transitions.
I'm India! Thank you for taking the first step on your therapeutic journey of healing and restoration with me! I'm the Founder and Therapist of Couch Conversations and Consulting, a fully online private practice offering quality mental health telehealth services for clients who prefer virtual sessions or may not be able to meet for in person sessions and are seeking a collaborative, compassionate and empowering therapy experience on the road to healing and restoration from the comfort of their own homes. I aim for my work as a therapist to be living proof of the benefits that therapy can be for one’s overall mental health.
(737) 232-4769 View (737) 232-4769
Photo of Kimberly Wilson, NMD, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, NMD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pflugerville, TX 78660  (Online Only)
Imagine what life would be like if you were not bothered by intrusive thoughts, racing thoughts, anxious thoughts, obsessions, compulsions, or constant worry and panic. What would you do with that extra time? Imagine if your chronic pain or chronic illness was not on your mind all of the time. How would you feel? Imagine your relationships in a good place, thriving, and free of conflict. What would be different? Yes, all of it is possible.
Imagine what life would be like if you were not bothered by intrusive thoughts, racing thoughts, anxious thoughts, obsessions, compulsions, or constant worry and panic. What would you do with that extra time? Imagine if your chronic pain or chronic illness was not on your mind all of the time. How would you feel? Imagine your relationships in a good place, thriving, and free of conflict. What would be different? Yes, all of it is possible.
(888) 539-1233 View (888) 539-1233
Photo of Eric Swanholm, PhD, Psychologist
Eric Swanholm
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78753
I am specially trained and have experience working with individuals with chronic pain conditions, inclusive of specific/generalized pain and migraine headaches.
I have provided evaluation and treatment for individuals who experience difficulties from the combination of psychological symptoms and chronic medical conditions. In particular, I have worked extensively with individuals experiencing both chronic pain (specific or generalized chronic pain, fibromyalgia, migraine headaches) and symptoms of depressive/anxiety-related disorders. I have worked extensively with individuals experiencing chronic medical conditions and personality-related disorders. Often, chronic pain, leads to development or worsening of psychological symptoms. Whether an individual's psychological symptoms existed prior to or developed after his or her chronic medical condition, I offer treatment toward an increase quality of life.
I am specially trained and have experience working with individuals with chronic pain conditions, inclusive of specific/generalized pain and migraine headaches.
I have provided evaluation and treatment for individuals who experience difficulties from the combination of psychological symptoms and chronic medical conditions. In particular, I have worked extensively with individuals experiencing both chronic pain (specific or generalized chronic pain, fibromyalgia, migraine headaches) and symptoms of depressive/anxiety-related disorders. I have worked extensively with individuals experiencing chronic medical conditions and personality-related disorders. Often, chronic pain, leads to development or worsening of psychological symptoms. Whether an individual's psychological symptoms existed prior to or developed after his or her chronic medical condition, I offer treatment toward an increase quality of life.
(817) 383-2914 View (817) 383-2914
Photo of Ifeanyi Ezeh, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ifeanyi Ezeh
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Pflugerville, TX 78660  (Online Only)
I am a licensed therapist with over 19 years of experience. I entered this field driven by witnessing friends struggle without adequate tools or support. Through my work, I've learned how to offer effective guidance to those facing similar difficulties. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use, adjustment difficulty, identity development, trauma, suicidal/self-harm behaviors, relationship issues, religious and spirituality-related issues, aging, chronic pain, grief and loss, and major life transitions.
I am a licensed therapist with over 19 years of experience. I entered this field driven by witnessing friends struggle without adequate tools or support. Through my work, I've learned how to offer effective guidance to those facing similar difficulties. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use, adjustment difficulty, identity development, trauma, suicidal/self-harm behaviors, relationship issues, religious and spirituality-related issues, aging, chronic pain, grief and loss, and major life transitions.
(817) 435-4627 View (817) 435-4627
Photo of Purna Bajekal, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Purna Bajekal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78723
Some of my specialties include life transitions, relationships, identity development, self-esteem, people pleasing, chronic illness, anxiety, depression, and school challenges.
It can be hard to find a therapist who understands how living with marginalized identities impact the way we show up in the world—and for ourselves. I take a culturally-responsive and somatic (mind-body centered) approach and value authenticity and inclusivity in my work. I support individuals in understanding how their experiences, relationships, identities, and culture impact who they are and their behaviors and interactions in the world. I specialize in working with young adults, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals, and 1st and 2nd generation immigrants experiencing life transitions.
Some of my specialties include life transitions, relationships, identity development, self-esteem, people pleasing, chronic illness, anxiety, depression, and school challenges.
It can be hard to find a therapist who understands how living with marginalized identities impact the way we show up in the world—and for ourselves. I take a culturally-responsive and somatic (mind-body centered) approach and value authenticity and inclusivity in my work. I support individuals in understanding how their experiences, relationships, identities, and culture impact who they are and their behaviors and interactions in the world. I specialize in working with young adults, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals, and 1st and 2nd generation immigrants experiencing life transitions.
(737) 530-8123 View (737) 530-8123
Photo of Jenifer Cameron, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenifer Cameron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pflugerville, TX 78660  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults and seniors as they deal with emotional difficulties, chronic illness, medical complexities, and life transitions.
You feel sad, anxious and tired and aren't sure what to do about it. You can't remember the last time you looked forward to anything. You frequently have unpleasant feelings about past hurts or experiences. Your life feels hard on a daily basis, and you wonder how will I get through this? Sometimes life throws us a curveball we did not see coming and this stresses our ability to manage our feelings and our day-to-day lives. Today might feel overwhelming, but there is hope for a better tomorrow. I am here to support you.
I specialize in working with adults and seniors as they deal with emotional difficulties, chronic illness, medical complexities, and life transitions.
You feel sad, anxious and tired and aren't sure what to do about it. You can't remember the last time you looked forward to anything. You frequently have unpleasant feelings about past hurts or experiences. Your life feels hard on a daily basis, and you wonder how will I get through this? Sometimes life throws us a curveball we did not see coming and this stresses our ability to manage our feelings and our day-to-day lives. Today might feel overwhelming, but there is hope for a better tomorrow. I am here to support you.
(512) 890-3746 View (512) 890-3746
Photo of Emily Marie Schultz, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Marie Schultz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pflugerville, TX 78660  (Online Only)
Are you finding yourself getting stuck in familiar, unhelpful patterns in your relationships? Is fear, anxiety, shame, or depression getting in the way of achieving your or your child’s goals? You are worthy and deserve to take time for yourself! You don’t have to navigate trauma, pain, anxiety or depression alone. Together, utilizing humor and compassion, we can explore ways your family system and past experiences shaped patterns of behavior that are now impacting your relationship with yourself and others. The time is now to honor yourself to get the help you need.
Are you finding yourself getting stuck in familiar, unhelpful patterns in your relationships? Is fear, anxiety, shame, or depression getting in the way of achieving your or your child’s goals? You are worthy and deserve to take time for yourself! You don’t have to navigate trauma, pain, anxiety or depression alone. Together, utilizing humor and compassion, we can explore ways your family system and past experiences shaped patterns of behavior that are now impacting your relationship with yourself and others. The time is now to honor yourself to get the help you need.
(512) 668-7013 View (512) 668-7013
Photo of Victoria Washington, MS, LCPC, LPC, Counselor
Victoria Washington
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78712  (Online Only)
My mission as an IFS-trained therapist is to help you understand and heal the different parts of yourself that may be in conflict or pain. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, I am here to support you. IFS stands for Internal Family Systems. It is a model that views each person as having a system of sub-personalities that have their own thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and motivations. Some of your parts may be wounded by past experiences and carry negative emotions such as anger, fear, shame, or guilt. Other parts may try to protect you from those emotions by avoiding, pleasing, or numbing.
My mission as an IFS-trained therapist is to help you understand and heal the different parts of yourself that may be in conflict or pain. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, I am here to support you. IFS stands for Internal Family Systems. It is a model that views each person as having a system of sub-personalities that have their own thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and motivations. Some of your parts may be wounded by past experiences and carry negative emotions such as anger, fear, shame, or guilt. Other parts may try to protect you from those emotions by avoiding, pleasing, or numbing.
(240) 233-2927 View (240) 233-2927
Photo of Valeria R. Franco, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valeria R. Franco
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pflugerville, TX 78660
I have helped individuals adjust to major life changes such as grief and loss, depression, anxiety, adjusting to chronic illness, past trauma, burnout, and other issues individuals experience through life-span.
Seeking help can be overwhelming and takes courage to reach out; therefore, I welcome you to this experience. I have worked with individuals from different backgrounds and issues throughout their lifespan. If you currently need help with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and/or grief I hope my approach is a good match for your needs. I focus on helping individuals' strengths and skills that fit their worldview. I speak Spanish and I am culturally sensitive to diversity and complex issues that individuals experience throughout their lives. Please email me for consultation options.
I have helped individuals adjust to major life changes such as grief and loss, depression, anxiety, adjusting to chronic illness, past trauma, burnout, and other issues individuals experience through life-span.
Seeking help can be overwhelming and takes courage to reach out; therefore, I welcome you to this experience. I have worked with individuals from different backgrounds and issues throughout their lifespan. If you currently need help with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and/or grief I hope my approach is a good match for your needs. I focus on helping individuals' strengths and skills that fit their worldview. I speak Spanish and I am culturally sensitive to diversity and complex issues that individuals experience throughout their lives. Please email me for consultation options.
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Photo of Jennifer Herz, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Herz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
I work with clientele from a variety of backgrounds who have different needs. In particular I specialize in working with client's who suffer from anxiety disorders such as OCD, GAD, and phobias. Additionally, I have a personal history of chronic illness and use that experience to inform my professional work with client's who have chronic pain and illnesses.
I work with clientele from a variety of backgrounds who have different needs. In particular I specialize in working with client's who suffer from anxiety disorders such as OCD, GAD, and phobias. Additionally, I have a personal history of chronic illness and use that experience to inform my professional work with client's who have chronic pain and illnesses.
(914) 292-7857 View (914) 292-7857
Photo of Kylie Lahey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kylie Lahey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78724  (Online Only)
I am EMDR certified and have experience utilizing EMDR with a variety of trauma, sports performance, chronic pain, recent events, and helping the nervous system release emotion.
I am passionate about helping people by teaching them to help themselves. This looks like teaching coping skills and thought-change perspectives to expand their ability to cope with the stressors of life. I have experience working a variety of athletes from elite to recreational levels for both personal and performance-based concerns. I am also passionate about serving clients experiencing grief and loss, as grief requires being witnessed to heal, and I am willing to witness your grief. I welcome clients looking to work through anxiety, breakups, loss of identity, and life changes.
I am EMDR certified and have experience utilizing EMDR with a variety of trauma, sports performance, chronic pain, recent events, and helping the nervous system release emotion.
I am passionate about helping people by teaching them to help themselves. This looks like teaching coping skills and thought-change perspectives to expand their ability to cope with the stressors of life. I have experience working a variety of athletes from elite to recreational levels for both personal and performance-based concerns. I am also passionate about serving clients experiencing grief and loss, as grief requires being witnessed to heal, and I am willing to witness your grief. I welcome clients looking to work through anxiety, breakups, loss of identity, and life changes.
(512) 877-4504 View (512) 877-4504
Photo of Dara Hendon, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dara Hendon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78724  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples & groups wanting to increase depth & intimacy in their relationships, through skill building & understanding. Gottman Level I trained clinician, & a sexual health specialist. I am committed to establishing a comfortable & confident setting for individuals to discuss their sexual health. I use a multitude of modalities to assist clients regarding libido issues, kink, orgasm, relationship transitions, BDSM, erectile dysfunction, LGBTQIA+, poly & ethical non-monogamy, sexual pain disorders, sexual communication, sexual confidence, fetishes, and anxiety, depression. Working on AASECT certification
I work with individuals, couples & groups wanting to increase depth & intimacy in their relationships, through skill building & understanding. Gottman Level I trained clinician, & a sexual health specialist. I am committed to establishing a comfortable & confident setting for individuals to discuss their sexual health. I use a multitude of modalities to assist clients regarding libido issues, kink, orgasm, relationship transitions, BDSM, erectile dysfunction, LGBTQIA+, poly & ethical non-monogamy, sexual pain disorders, sexual communication, sexual confidence, fetishes, and anxiety, depression. Working on AASECT certification
(737) 259-7572 View (737) 259-7572
Photo of Bridges West Kaminski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridges West Kaminski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78723  (Online Only)
Hi there- it’s so nice to meet you! I'm Bridges, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults. I have a passion for guiding individuals through challenges and facilitating their growth across different stages of life. My expertise spans coping with chronic illness, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. From supporting a new diagnosis in medical settings to helping parents navigate the challenges of parenthood, I've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients. I am deeply honored for you to consider me to be a part of your journey towards healing.
Hi there- it’s so nice to meet you! I'm Bridges, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults. I have a passion for guiding individuals through challenges and facilitating their growth across different stages of life. My expertise spans coping with chronic illness, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. From supporting a new diagnosis in medical settings to helping parents navigate the challenges of parenthood, I've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients. I am deeply honored for you to consider me to be a part of your journey towards healing.
(346) 589-5300 View (346) 589-5300
Photo of Bela K Quinn, MA, LPC, LSSP, RYT200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bela K Quinn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LSSP, RYT200
Verified Verified
Pflugerville, TX 78660
We are not meant to figure everything out in life on our own. Sometimes we get lost, or overwhelmed or stuck, and we need some help. I believe that there is nothing “wrong” with any of us. You’re not broken; you don’t need to be fixed. It is part of the human condition to experience pain and suffering – and there are times, throughout life, we all lose contact with pieces of ourselves. When we get stuck in a cycle of harmful thoughts and ineffective coping strategies, it prevents us from accessing and experiencing positive events in the here-and-now.
We are not meant to figure everything out in life on our own. Sometimes we get lost, or overwhelmed or stuck, and we need some help. I believe that there is nothing “wrong” with any of us. You’re not broken; you don’t need to be fixed. It is part of the human condition to experience pain and suffering – and there are times, throughout life, we all lose contact with pieces of ourselves. When we get stuck in a cycle of harmful thoughts and ineffective coping strategies, it prevents us from accessing and experiencing positive events in the here-and-now.
(737) 232-6180 View (737) 232-6180
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.