Chronic Pain Therapists in San Antonio, TX

Photo of Dr. Jacqueline Contreras, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jacqueline Contreras
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78228
¡Hola! My name is Dr. Jacqueline Contreras. My experiences include treating patients managing chronic pain, anxiety, depression, stress, phase of life issues, post-traumatic stress disorder, personal growth, social phobia, self-esteem, work related injuries, car accident injuries, and adjustment disorder. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ patients, too. Additionally, I have advised college students from low socio-economic communities, career counseling, and helped first-generation college students adjust to a four-year university.
¡Hola! My name is Dr. Jacqueline Contreras. My experiences include treating patients managing chronic pain, anxiety, depression, stress, phase of life issues, post-traumatic stress disorder, personal growth, social phobia, self-esteem, work related injuries, car accident injuries, and adjustment disorder. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ patients, too. Additionally, I have advised college students from low socio-economic communities, career counseling, and helped first-generation college students adjust to a four-year university.
(210) 972-1137 View (210) 972-1137
Photo of Javier (Javi) Villanueva, PhD, Psychologist
Javier (Javi) Villanueva
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
I hope you will research our website where you will find more information about my associates and myself, as well as free resources pertaining to pain, insomnia and anxiety, and a full, thorough description of how we can help you.
First, thank you so much for taking the time to view my page. I know you have many options, and your time is meaningful. I believe you care about quality. You want someone to provide care for yourself or your loved one, someone you feel comfortable with, someone you can come to trust. My approach to treatment is twofold: address the symptoms of distress, and seek resolution for the root cause of that distress. By helping me understand your life conditions, we can create your path to both immediate and lasting relief.
I hope you will research our website where you will find more information about my associates and myself, as well as free resources pertaining to pain, insomnia and anxiety, and a full, thorough description of how we can help you.
First, thank you so much for taking the time to view my page. I know you have many options, and your time is meaningful. I believe you care about quality. You want someone to provide care for yourself or your loved one, someone you feel comfortable with, someone you can come to trust. My approach to treatment is twofold: address the symptoms of distress, and seek resolution for the root cause of that distress. By helping me understand your life conditions, we can create your path to both immediate and lasting relief.
(210) 849-1244 View (210) 849-1244
Photo of Allison Ray Benavides, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Ray Benavides
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209  (Online Only)
My Clients are often coping w/chronic pain, terminal illness, caregiver fatigue, grief & loss (including child, limb, suicide, pet, divorce, faith), trauma, depression, anxiety/OCD/panic, challenges w/aging or low self worth.
If you’re in chronic pain (emotional or physical), feel left out of life or find yourself doubting your value or ability, I could be a good fit :) Some bodies & minds have a nervous system that continuously sends danger signals. These intrusive, distressing “internal misunderstandings” show up as chronic symptoms - preventing us from experiencing what is good, right & true about ourselves, our relationships & life. I'm here to help desensitize & reprogram the internal vibes & thoughts decreasing your quality of life - to pass along eclectic, simple & warm yet evidenced-based strategies to nurture & restore your mind, body & heart.
My Clients are often coping w/chronic pain, terminal illness, caregiver fatigue, grief & loss (including child, limb, suicide, pet, divorce, faith), trauma, depression, anxiety/OCD/panic, challenges w/aging or low self worth.
If you’re in chronic pain (emotional or physical), feel left out of life or find yourself doubting your value or ability, I could be a good fit :) Some bodies & minds have a nervous system that continuously sends danger signals. These intrusive, distressing “internal misunderstandings” show up as chronic symptoms - preventing us from experiencing what is good, right & true about ourselves, our relationships & life. I'm here to help desensitize & reprogram the internal vibes & thoughts decreasing your quality of life - to pass along eclectic, simple & warm yet evidenced-based strategies to nurture & restore your mind, body & heart.
(210) 971-4414 View (210) 971-4414
Photo of Cheryl Wright, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheryl Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78240
The decision to seek therapy is difficult and personal. Not knowing all the answers to your life questions is natural. Often, people choose therapy during times of stress, discomfort, chaos, and emotional pain. It may also be when you are ready for changes or growth to happen in your life. I believe that within every individual lies the ability to overcome, learn, and preserver through the concerns that brought them to therapy.
The decision to seek therapy is difficult and personal. Not knowing all the answers to your life questions is natural. Often, people choose therapy during times of stress, discomfort, chaos, and emotional pain. It may also be when you are ready for changes or growth to happen in your life. I believe that within every individual lies the ability to overcome, learn, and preserver through the concerns that brought them to therapy.
(210) 762-4741 View (210) 762-4741
Photo of Gary Whiting - Rehab Therapy Resources, Inc., PhD, Psychologist
Rehab Therapy Resources, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78240
We provide supportive psychotherapy for patients with a serious illness or injury, who now live with chronic pain and impairment. It is not unusual to experience problems with stress, depression, and anxiety after a medical crisis, and to become isolated from the flow of life. You will be given an individual therapist to support you and help you learn about the specific skills, attitudes, and behaviors that help you slowly but steadily "push back" and regain quality of life.
We provide supportive psychotherapy for patients with a serious illness or injury, who now live with chronic pain and impairment. It is not unusual to experience problems with stress, depression, and anxiety after a medical crisis, and to become isolated from the flow of life. You will be given an individual therapist to support you and help you learn about the specific skills, attitudes, and behaviors that help you slowly but steadily "push back" and regain quality of life.
(210) 672-1246 View (210) 672-1246
Photo of Yvonne Tejeda, MA, LPC, PLLC, RYT200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yvonne Tejeda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PLLC, RYT200
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
Hello, I’m a licensed therapist in SA & Spring Branch TX, specialized in treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and chronic pain. I use evidence-based treatment modalities such as EMDR or TF-CBT, somatic psychotherapy for body regulation and reconnection of mind and body. I’m a Hatha yoga certified teacher, an original yoga practiced thousands of years ago that has transformed human beings to transcend to higher states of consciousness, releasing mental, emotional and physical illness and daily stressors in order to return to original state of wellness and inner peace.
Hello, I’m a licensed therapist in SA & Spring Branch TX, specialized in treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and chronic pain. I use evidence-based treatment modalities such as EMDR or TF-CBT, somatic psychotherapy for body regulation and reconnection of mind and body. I’m a Hatha yoga certified teacher, an original yoga practiced thousands of years ago that has transformed human beings to transcend to higher states of consciousness, releasing mental, emotional and physical illness and daily stressors in order to return to original state of wellness and inner peace.
(210) 844-1296 View (210) 844-1296
Photo of Wenona Y Andress - Wenona Andress, LCSW-S, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wenona Andress, LCSW-S
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78204  (Online Only)
Do you have chronic pain and wonder if you can enjoy life again? Does your family struggle with addiction? Interested in reducing symptoms from a traumatic event? Trying to stop tobacco for health or prior to a surgery? Adjusting to mental illness/long term health condition and feel lost? It's my passion to guide you to a life that is as full as possible! I have been treating these issues, mood disorders, ADD/other adjustment disorders. My typical clients are young adults to Seniors. I see children/adults age 10 and over for chronic pain.
Do you have chronic pain and wonder if you can enjoy life again? Does your family struggle with addiction? Interested in reducing symptoms from a traumatic event? Trying to stop tobacco for health or prior to a surgery? Adjusting to mental illness/long term health condition and feel lost? It's my passion to guide you to a life that is as full as possible! I have been treating these issues, mood disorders, ADD/other adjustment disorders. My typical clients are young adults to Seniors. I see children/adults age 10 and over for chronic pain.
(806) 474-5787 View (806) 474-5787
Photo of Terri L Beck, LCDC, CHT, CPC, CPRC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Terri L Beck
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC, CHT, CPC, CPRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78245
I have used hypnotherapy to help some clients increase their ability to manage chronic pain, quit smoking or work through trauma.
I am a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and Hypnotherapist and have been working in the mental health field for over 12 years. I imagine my ideal client has been feeling symptoms of anxiety, worry or depression or maybe life has hampered you from achieving your desires or goals. I provide in-person and tele-health sessions for those located in the state of Texas that have a desire to begin coping differently
I have used hypnotherapy to help some clients increase their ability to manage chronic pain, quit smoking or work through trauma.
I am a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and Hypnotherapist and have been working in the mental health field for over 12 years. I imagine my ideal client has been feeling symptoms of anxiety, worry or depression or maybe life has hampered you from achieving your desires or goals. I provide in-person and tele-health sessions for those located in the state of Texas that have a desire to begin coping differently
(956) 450-7334 View (956) 450-7334
Photo of Brittany Hudson, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Hudson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78209
My specialties include chronic pain and illness, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and traumatic grief.
Life can be messy–and by messy, I mean painful and joyous and everything in between. Counseling can provide a space where you feel seen, supported, and validated through it all. My approach is grounded in relational-cultural theory and trauma-informed counseling. I have worked with survivors of various losses and traumatic events. These experiences can result in feelings of shame and isolation. For this reason, my practice centers on healing through connection. I emphasize your safety and empowerment throughout the counseling process. I meet you where you are with warmth, non-judgment, and even a little bit of humor.
My specialties include chronic pain and illness, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and traumatic grief.
Life can be messy–and by messy, I mean painful and joyous and everything in between. Counseling can provide a space where you feel seen, supported, and validated through it all. My approach is grounded in relational-cultural theory and trauma-informed counseling. I have worked with survivors of various losses and traumatic events. These experiences can result in feelings of shame and isolation. For this reason, my practice centers on healing through connection. I emphasize your safety and empowerment throughout the counseling process. I meet you where you are with warmth, non-judgment, and even a little bit of humor.
(210) 791-6535 View (210) 791-6535
Photo of Amanda Jones, LCSW-S, C-SWHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, C-SWHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78249  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Drawing from diverse modalities, I specialize in women's issues, trauma/PTSD, chronic illness, codependency, grief, GLBT and gender concerns, couples' dynamics, mood shifts, life transitions, and holistic counseling, integrating EMDR and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy.
My individual and couples caseload is full. Now enrolling motivated clients in group therapy and waitlisting. Are you a woman juggling life's demands, feeling stuck or underappreciated? Whether you're a mom, caregiver, or professional woman, I'm here to help. I value healing, inner peace, and security. My expertise includes women's issues, trauma, chronic illness, and more. Seeking EMDR, psychedelics, couples therapy, or traditional therapy? I offer individual and group sessions from your own home. I now offer clinical supervision for aspiring therapists too. Let's embark on this healing journey together.
Drawing from diverse modalities, I specialize in women's issues, trauma/PTSD, chronic illness, codependency, grief, GLBT and gender concerns, couples' dynamics, mood shifts, life transitions, and holistic counseling, integrating EMDR and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy.
My individual and couples caseload is full. Now enrolling motivated clients in group therapy and waitlisting. Are you a woman juggling life's demands, feeling stuck or underappreciated? Whether you're a mom, caregiver, or professional woman, I'm here to help. I value healing, inner peace, and security. My expertise includes women's issues, trauma, chronic illness, and more. Seeking EMDR, psychedelics, couples therapy, or traditional therapy? I offer individual and group sessions from your own home. I now offer clinical supervision for aspiring therapists too. Let's embark on this healing journey together.
(210) 633-8756 View (210) 633-8756
Photo of Valessa Agosto, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valessa Agosto
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78260
Where you can make sense of and understand the confusion, sadness, fear, worry, doubt, and pain you may be feeling.
I have provided therapy for clients with a variety of concerns. I have worked with college students of all ages for the last few years, stress and personal growth has been a topic that many clients come in wanting to work on. Anxiety is another topic that I have helped my clients manage. Anxiety can be mild or so severe that individuals may experience frequent panic attacks. I have experience with individuals in recovery and their families. Clients experiencing difficulties in relationships come in hoping to improve their relationships. I have worked with clients with a variety of cultural and religious backgrounds.
Where you can make sense of and understand the confusion, sadness, fear, worry, doubt, and pain you may be feeling.
I have provided therapy for clients with a variety of concerns. I have worked with college students of all ages for the last few years, stress and personal growth has been a topic that many clients come in wanting to work on. Anxiety is another topic that I have helped my clients manage. Anxiety can be mild or so severe that individuals may experience frequent panic attacks. I have experience with individuals in recovery and their families. Clients experiencing difficulties in relationships come in hoping to improve their relationships. I have worked with clients with a variety of cultural and religious backgrounds.
(210) 767-3143 View (210) 767-3143
Photo of Katherine M Rose, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine M Rose
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78278  (Online Only)
Together, we will unpack the pain, challenges and traumas of the recent and the distant past.
It takes consistent tenacity to function in this post-pandemic world. Do you feel worn down, unmotivated and irritable? Do you find yourself endlessly searching for energy, companionship and peace through 30 second videos on social media? Do miss the deep connection to yourself, loved ones and purpose in life? It is time to use that grit to focus on what you possess that can rekindle active participation in this life, to bask in the moments of joy that appear throughout each day, to embrace new experiences as opportunities for growth and healing.
Together, we will unpack the pain, challenges and traumas of the recent and the distant past.
It takes consistent tenacity to function in this post-pandemic world. Do you feel worn down, unmotivated and irritable? Do you find yourself endlessly searching for energy, companionship and peace through 30 second videos on social media? Do miss the deep connection to yourself, loved ones and purpose in life? It is time to use that grit to focus on what you possess that can rekindle active participation in this life, to bask in the moments of joy that appear throughout each day, to embrace new experiences as opportunities for growth and healing.
(210) 978-0979 View (210) 978-0979
Photo of Alicia Acosta, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Acosta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
I specialize in helping clients with their Mental Health needs, Trauma, Substance Abuse, grief & loss, and relationship issues. I have found many concerns brought to therapy can be a result of unresolved pain or unhealthy copings strategies from the past. With my various therapeutic trainings I am able to assist clients in finding the best pathway for their needs.
I specialize in helping clients with their Mental Health needs, Trauma, Substance Abuse, grief & loss, and relationship issues. I have found many concerns brought to therapy can be a result of unresolved pain or unhealthy copings strategies from the past. With my various therapeutic trainings I am able to assist clients in finding the best pathway for their needs.
(210) 934-0589 View (210) 934-0589
Photo of Ross Garcia, MS, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ross Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78240
Feelings of loneliness, inadequacy, shame, hopelessness, and anxiety/depression often derive from negative patterns developed over time or as a result of traumatic pain or stressors.
I believe all human beings strive to create fulfilling lives with meaningful connections to others. Having a greater understanding of our strengths and weaknesses enables us to make better decisions that lead to living the life we imagine for ourselves. Through therapy, I assist clients in gaining insight into themselves through increasing coping and self-awareness. We will examine and identify values/strengths in order to make realistic goals and movement towards the life you want.
Feelings of loneliness, inadequacy, shame, hopelessness, and anxiety/depression often derive from negative patterns developed over time or as a result of traumatic pain or stressors.
I believe all human beings strive to create fulfilling lives with meaningful connections to others. Having a greater understanding of our strengths and weaknesses enables us to make better decisions that lead to living the life we imagine for ourselves. Through therapy, I assist clients in gaining insight into themselves through increasing coping and self-awareness. We will examine and identify values/strengths in order to make realistic goals and movement towards the life you want.
(210) 981-4812 View (210) 981-4812
Photo of Laura Kotlowski, LPC, LCDC, NCC, CCTP, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Kotlowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78259
I feel privileged & blessed to witness clients' change processes. I seek to use therapy modalities that work best for individualized client care, & I am grateful to serve in settings that align perfectly with my beliefs in achieving recovery. I am humbled to witness the healing that occurs in therapy where there was previously confusion, pain, & hopelessness. It is my life's passion to support & encourage others.
I feel privileged & blessed to witness clients' change processes. I seek to use therapy modalities that work best for individualized client care, & I am grateful to serve in settings that align perfectly with my beliefs in achieving recovery. I am humbled to witness the healing that occurs in therapy where there was previously confusion, pain, & hopelessness. It is my life's passion to support & encourage others.
(210) 791-6972 View (210) 791-6972
Photo of Heather Ingram, PsyD, Psychologist
Heather Ingram
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216
Ingram moved to Texas to continue working with clients affected by mental illness and their families by founding InMindOut Emotional Wellness Center.
Dr. Heather Ingram, originally from Chicago, obtained her doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Argosy University in Schaumburg, Illinois. Throughout her training, Dr. Ingram worked in a variety of settings around Chicago including Elgin Mental Health Center on the Unfit to Stand Trial Unit, Bridge View-Challenger Therapeutic Day School, Women In Need Growing Stronger domestic violence shelter, and Gateway Foundation residential substance abuse treatment center. During her work in Boston, Dr. Ingram worked at Walden Behavioral Care eating disorder clinic, where she worked in inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient levels of care.
Ingram moved to Texas to continue working with clients affected by mental illness and their families by founding InMindOut Emotional Wellness Center.
Dr. Heather Ingram, originally from Chicago, obtained her doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Argosy University in Schaumburg, Illinois. Throughout her training, Dr. Ingram worked in a variety of settings around Chicago including Elgin Mental Health Center on the Unfit to Stand Trial Unit, Bridge View-Challenger Therapeutic Day School, Women In Need Growing Stronger domestic violence shelter, and Gateway Foundation residential substance abuse treatment center. During her work in Boston, Dr. Ingram worked at Walden Behavioral Care eating disorder clinic, where she worked in inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient levels of care.
(830) 469-4884 View (830) 469-4884
Photo of Benjamin Conner, MS, LPC, EMDR, Veteran, Licensed Professional Counselor
Benjamin Conner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR, Veteran
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260  (Online Only)
I offer you a pathway from pain and fatigue to peace and empowerment.
If you suffer from trauma, PTSD, anxiety or depression, and you are exhausted from the fight, lets talk. I survived many types of abuse, trauma, and PTSD. I then transitioned from military search and rescue to civilian life with my wife and three boys. I understand treating these issues with EMDR and guiding healing for individuals and families. Parenting and relationships are difficult, and with trauma in the background it can seem impossible. Treating those injuries from the past and present can change your life, strengthen your identity, and heal your relationships.
I offer you a pathway from pain and fatigue to peace and empowerment.
If you suffer from trauma, PTSD, anxiety or depression, and you are exhausted from the fight, lets talk. I survived many types of abuse, trauma, and PTSD. I then transitioned from military search and rescue to civilian life with my wife and three boys. I understand treating these issues with EMDR and guiding healing for individuals and families. Parenting and relationships are difficult, and with trauma in the background it can seem impossible. Treating those injuries from the past and present can change your life, strengthen your identity, and heal your relationships.
(210) 361-2475 View (210) 361-2475
Photo of Arthur Gaylian Kirby II, MS MDIV, LPC(S), Licensed Professional Counselor
Arthur Gaylian Kirby II
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS MDIV, LPC(S)
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
Life experience has taught me to understand mental illness, bipolar mood disorder, other mood disorders, personality disorders, abuse victims of multiple sources, attachment disorders, sick and healthy religion and spiritually.
My job is to help people live happier lives. My office is a continuing education service for all who enter. The goal for me, and hopefully for the person I am working with, is to learn from each other through the change agent of conversation. After 40 years of experience, my belief is that humans never really change until what they have done is working anymore, is broken, and/or gone. Thus change begins with loss, some small and some life ending. At these moments of transition, learning how to let go is the lesson, whether we like it or not. Whatever big change you are going through, positive or negative begins with an ending.
Life experience has taught me to understand mental illness, bipolar mood disorder, other mood disorders, personality disorders, abuse victims of multiple sources, attachment disorders, sick and healthy religion and spiritually.
My job is to help people live happier lives. My office is a continuing education service for all who enter. The goal for me, and hopefully for the person I am working with, is to learn from each other through the change agent of conversation. After 40 years of experience, my belief is that humans never really change until what they have done is working anymore, is broken, and/or gone. Thus change begins with loss, some small and some life ending. At these moments of transition, learning how to let go is the lesson, whether we like it or not. Whatever big change you are going through, positive or negative begins with an ending.
(210) 664-4392 View (210) 664-4392
Photo of Genevieve Martinez, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Genevieve Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78253  (Online Only)
She has experience working with individuals living with chronic pain, opioid dependency, and/or other forms of substance dependency.
Genevieve Martinez is a Licensed Professional counselor with several years of counseling related experience. She has obtained her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at The University of Texas at San Antonio and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Genevieve is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas (License 81221). She utilizes an integrative approach in efforts to tailor to the therapeutic needs and goals of the individual.
She has experience working with individuals living with chronic pain, opioid dependency, and/or other forms of substance dependency.
Genevieve Martinez is a Licensed Professional counselor with several years of counseling related experience. She has obtained her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at The University of Texas at San Antonio and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Genevieve is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas (License 81221). She utilizes an integrative approach in efforts to tailor to the therapeutic needs and goals of the individual.
(210) 864-9762 View (210) 864-9762
Photo of Ruby L Torres, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ruby L Torres
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78240  (Online Only)
For many years, I have specialized in helping individuals who are struggling with chronic pain and illness. It’s challenging to enjoy your current life when you become overwhelmed with pain or emotions. I believe that you have the inner strength to handle these struggles and I consider it a privilege to walk through this part of your journey with you.
For many years, I have specialized in helping individuals who are struggling with chronic pain and illness. It’s challenging to enjoy your current life when you become overwhelmed with pain or emotions. I believe that you have the inner strength to handle these struggles and I consider it a privilege to walk through this part of your journey with you.
(210) 985-9374 View (210) 985-9374

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.