Chronic Pain Therapists in Sunset Valley, TX
![Photo of Elizanda de la Sota, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b9286f0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you want to create change in your life and prefer a therapist who is dynamic and directive, then I could be a good fit for you. Clients who do well with me want to understand themselves and are willing to be challenged and are committed to growth. I am best suited to dealing with depression, anxiety, health issues, substance abuse problems, and relationship issues. I have special training in Pain Management, Mind-Body Issues in Health, and Sexual Dysfunction
If you want to create change in your life and prefer a therapist who is dynamic and directive, then I could be a good fit for you. Clients who do well with me want to understand themselves and are willing to be challenged and are committed to growth. I am best suited to dealing with depression, anxiety, health issues, substance abuse problems, and relationship issues. I have special training in Pain Management, Mind-Body Issues in Health, and Sexual Dysfunction
![Photo of Anna Graybeal, PhD, CGP, SEP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b1e71fd-b6fa-45bc-900a-2c1300b1187b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Graybeal
Psychologist, PhD, CGP, SEP
Verified Verified
Sunset Valley, TX 78735
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I establish a strong alliance with my clients through empathy and respect and work collaboratively with them to achieve their goals. Other areas of my expertise include parenting, divorce, health problems such as illness and chronic pain, grief and loss, trauma, substance abuse, low self-esteem and identity issues.
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I establish a strong alliance with my clients through empathy and respect and work collaboratively with them to achieve their goals. Other areas of my expertise include parenting, divorce, health problems such as illness and chronic pain, grief and loss, trauma, substance abuse, low self-esteem and identity issues.
![Photo of De Sellers, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf80ad8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Nancy Kelly, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05801306-9569-478f-8c2c-7e87bc2b02af/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nancy Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunset Valley, TX 78735 (Online Only)
Feeling fatigued or burnt out by the demands of your clinical practice? Good clinical supervision can help you create an expansive clinical practice, one that challenges you to grow while honoring the skills you enjoy using in your work. I'm a psychodynamically-trained social worker who specializes in clinical supervision and consultation, in both group and individual formats. I approach my work with compassion and a large dose of humor, engaging deeply with other clinicians to explore the possibilities of a richer work life, more aligned with their core values.
Feeling fatigued or burnt out by the demands of your clinical practice? Good clinical supervision can help you create an expansive clinical practice, one that challenges you to grow while honoring the skills you enjoy using in your work. I'm a psychodynamically-trained social worker who specializes in clinical supervision and consultation, in both group and individual formats. I approach my work with compassion and a large dose of humor, engaging deeply with other clinicians to explore the possibilities of a richer work life, more aligned with their core values.
![Photo of Robert M Seidel, MSSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bff1c60-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
Robert M Seidel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Sunset Valley, TX 78735
I am an Honors graduate of The University of Texas at Austin with over 30 years experience helping people overcome anxiety & depression, resolve conflicts, deal with past hurts & traumas, improve communication and self esteem, and increase the quality of their relationships, as well as their work or school performance, in order that they may lead happier and more fulfilling lives. I also recently completed training to become a state-licensed, Clinical Social Work Supervisor for newly-graduated clinicians-in-training.
I am an Honors graduate of The University of Texas at Austin with over 30 years experience helping people overcome anxiety & depression, resolve conflicts, deal with past hurts & traumas, improve communication and self esteem, and increase the quality of their relationships, as well as their work or school performance, in order that they may lead happier and more fulfilling lives. I also recently completed training to become a state-licensed, Clinical Social Work Supervisor for newly-graduated clinicians-in-training.
![Photo of Melissa M Hargrave - Hill Country Therapy, MS, LMFT-S, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb6cf2fe-020d-4c5e-8eb7-7d8e1e86ce8c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hill Country Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMFT-S, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sunset Valley, TX 78735
As far as anyone can tell, you’ve got a great marriage and life. You’re accomplished, always loving to each other and close with friends and family. But on the inside, you have never felt so alone. Over the years you have tried to rationalize, fix, and excuse your relationship growing apart, yet it is disheartening. Something just does not feel right anymore, and you begin to realize you feel like you have a roommate rather than a partnership. Maintaining a fulfilling and loving relationship can be a challenge in today's fast paced environment.
As far as anyone can tell, you’ve got a great marriage and life. You’re accomplished, always loving to each other and close with friends and family. But on the inside, you have never felt so alone. Over the years you have tried to rationalize, fix, and excuse your relationship growing apart, yet it is disheartening. Something just does not feel right anymore, and you begin to realize you feel like you have a roommate rather than a partnership. Maintaining a fulfilling and loving relationship can be a challenge in today's fast paced environment.
![Photo of Rachel Gunner, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c585d39-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychotherapy is an art and a science. The art is the use of oneself combining the intuitive sense; the naturalness in expressing comfort and caring; the ability to relate to all people; and the comfort in self-disclosure. The science is the skills and techniques we learn and the knowing what techniques will be helpful in moving clients beyond their walls towards a healthier life
Please go to my website at http://www.rachelgunner.com to read my philosophy about psychotherapy, coaching and mediation.
Psychotherapy is an art and a science. The art is the use of oneself combining the intuitive sense; the naturalness in expressing comfort and caring; the ability to relate to all people; and the comfort in self-disclosure. The science is the skills and techniques we learn and the knowing what techniques will be helpful in moving clients beyond their walls towards a healthier life
Please go to my website at http://www.rachelgunner.com to read my philosophy about psychotherapy, coaching and mediation.
![Photo of Andrea Rábago, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ee8f0e8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Rábago
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Sunset Valley, TX 78735 (Online Only)
I work closely with Highly Sensitive People, Austin spectrum, medical personnel, first responders, & those seeking to restore nervous system capacity, enhance Self understanding & experience intimate, grounded, & growth oriented relationships. My focus areas also include conscious integration, psychedelic preparation & integration, addiction recovery, & trauma resolution PTSD & CPTSD. Let's develop space together for you to relax, restore, explore, & prioritize what matters most in your life.
I work closely with Highly Sensitive People, Austin spectrum, medical personnel, first responders, & those seeking to restore nervous system capacity, enhance Self understanding & experience intimate, grounded, & growth oriented relationships. My focus areas also include conscious integration, psychedelic preparation & integration, addiction recovery, & trauma resolution PTSD & CPTSD. Let's develop space together for you to relax, restore, explore, & prioritize what matters most in your life.
![Photo of Brandie Cole, LCSW-S, EMDR AC, CMCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0b3ed8a-d532-4d88-9e7d-f263af80453d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brandie Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, EMDR AC, CMCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sunset Valley, TX 78745
Waitlist for new clients
I know that it can be incredibly difficult to reach out and ask for help. I think it is one of the bravest things a person can do. I also believe that change and hope are very real. I would be honored and privileged to get to be the person that walks beside you in your journey of healing.
I know that it can be incredibly difficult to reach out and ask for help. I think it is one of the bravest things a person can do. I also believe that change and hope are very real. I would be honored and privileged to get to be the person that walks beside you in your journey of healing.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Dyan Haspel-Johnson, PSY, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4085a37e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dyan Haspel-Johnson
Psychologist, PSY
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78745 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use hypnosis to treat everything from pain and chronic illness to anxiety and self-esteem.
Are you looking for greater balance and harmony in your life? I am aware of the interaction between mind, body, and spirit and how challenges to these components can be opportunities for growth, strength, and wisdom. We are all unique individuals so my approach to each person varies to suit each particular issue and patient. By focusing on your core values, I will actively help you to reach your potential. I see therapy as a collaborative process with myself here to facilitate the building of your resources and strengths to empower you.
I use hypnosis to treat everything from pain and chronic illness to anxiety and self-esteem.
Are you looking for greater balance and harmony in your life? I am aware of the interaction between mind, body, and spirit and how challenges to these components can be opportunities for growth, strength, and wisdom. We are all unique individuals so my approach to each person varies to suit each particular issue and patient. By focusing on your core values, I will actively help you to reach your potential. I see therapy as a collaborative process with myself here to facilitate the building of your resources and strengths to empower you.
![Photo of Lotty Ackerman Mayer, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5046015e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lotty Ackerman Mayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704 (Online Only)
When overwhelm, trauma, relationships, illness, and transitions impact us it can be difficult to navigate life. I offer an authentic, compassionate, and experienced presence to help you connect with wellbeing and possibilities. I welcome your full self.
When overwhelm, trauma, relationships, illness, and transitions impact us it can be difficult to navigate life. I offer an authentic, compassionate, and experienced presence to help you connect with wellbeing and possibilities. I welcome your full self.
![Photo of Valerie Ward, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4681a65d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My hope is to make therapy accessible to those who would not otherwise engage in this process due to long commutes, child-care challenges, work-related travel, physical disabilities or chronic illness.
Clients who work with me learn to better understand their emotional triggers, work to overcome life’s setbacks, manage stress more productively, communicate with others more effectively, and set healthy boundaries. My approach involves getting to know each of my clients, beyond what has brought them into therapy. I seek to understand what your goals are for this journey, and we together discuss how I can support you in working on what can be changed, and learning to cope with people and situations that we cannot change.
My hope is to make therapy accessible to those who would not otherwise engage in this process due to long commutes, child-care challenges, work-related travel, physical disabilities or chronic illness.
Clients who work with me learn to better understand their emotional triggers, work to overcome life’s setbacks, manage stress more productively, communicate with others more effectively, and set healthy boundaries. My approach involves getting to know each of my clients, beyond what has brought them into therapy. I seek to understand what your goals are for this journey, and we together discuss how I can support you in working on what can be changed, and learning to cope with people and situations that we cannot change.
![Photo of Iektje Dita van Bolhuis, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f38e3cd9-7bc5-44a9-a49a-b08827e082e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you need help or are looking to make positive changes in your life or your relationship, you have come to the right place! I work with adults, teens, and couples who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, life transitions, chronic pain and illness, trauma, and with people who would just like to get along better with others and feel happier in their life. I believe you have everything you need inside you to heal and reach your goals. As a therapist I see my role as helping to bring these strengths out in you.
If you need help or are looking to make positive changes in your life or your relationship, you have come to the right place! I work with adults, teens, and couples who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, life transitions, chronic pain and illness, trauma, and with people who would just like to get along better with others and feel happier in their life. I believe you have everything you need inside you to heal and reach your goals. As a therapist I see my role as helping to bring these strengths out in you.
![Photo of Rebecca Davenport, LCSW, CEAP, PA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8ca197f-625b-4605-ad65-3965f416d9cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Davenport
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP, PA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
I work with individuals, couples, families and groups, across the life cycle, addressing concerns including (but not limited to); anxiety/depression, interpersonal skills, work/life balance, parenting, chronic/acute illness, and relationships issues for heterosexual, queer, gay and lesbian couples.
I collaborate with clients to resolve problems in living, to promote emotional growth and to facilitate personal and professional success. My therapeutic style is warm, direct and interactive. I believe that each of us can make mindful choices to create a gratifying life, to care for ourselves, our families and relationships. We can practice skillfully and create meaning in the difficulties and catastrophes that can complicate our course.
I work with individuals, couples, families and groups, across the life cycle, addressing concerns including (but not limited to); anxiety/depression, interpersonal skills, work/life balance, parenting, chronic/acute illness, and relationships issues for heterosexual, queer, gay and lesbian couples.
I collaborate with clients to resolve problems in living, to promote emotional growth and to facilitate personal and professional success. My therapeutic style is warm, direct and interactive. I believe that each of us can make mindful choices to create a gratifying life, to care for ourselves, our families and relationships. We can practice skillfully and create meaning in the difficulties and catastrophes that can complicate our course.
![Photo of Eden Davisson - Eden Davisson, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4099aae4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eden Davisson, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I have been providing psychotherapy and behavioral health counseling to diverse population of adults with a full spectrum of emotional and psychological needs since 2011. I have witnessed many of my clients progress and graduate out of counseling after we have worked together on anxiety, depression, anger, relationship distress, chronic pain, health behaviors, and mild addiction.
I have been providing psychotherapy and behavioral health counseling to diverse population of adults with a full spectrum of emotional and psychological needs since 2011. I have witnessed many of my clients progress and graduate out of counseling after we have worked together on anxiety, depression, anger, relationship distress, chronic pain, health behaviors, and mild addiction.
![Photo of Resolve Therapy With Cindy Noland, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8e63a6e-6c24-4e42-ae17-dbfdaa5aa02b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Resolve Therapy With Cindy Noland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
ETT can be applied to a wide range of conditions: anxiety, dissociative identity disorder, family of origin issues, chronic pain, situational trauma such as auto collision, most DSM V disorders, motivation or any issues that are blocking you in your goals or relationships.
Experienced, compassionate counselor/coach dedicated to your healing and goals. Meeting you where you are with what's right for you. Here you will find tender, safe support to work on family trauma, rapid relief from anxiety and chronic pain, and help for dealing with addictions. I take an integrative approach in my counseling practice, using a combination of evidence-based therapies and the latest findings in brain science. I welcome and support diversity and LGBTQ+ folks. I mainly practice Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), a breakthrough in psychological science.
ETT can be applied to a wide range of conditions: anxiety, dissociative identity disorder, family of origin issues, chronic pain, situational trauma such as auto collision, most DSM V disorders, motivation or any issues that are blocking you in your goals or relationships.
Experienced, compassionate counselor/coach dedicated to your healing and goals. Meeting you where you are with what's right for you. Here you will find tender, safe support to work on family trauma, rapid relief from anxiety and chronic pain, and help for dealing with addictions. I take an integrative approach in my counseling practice, using a combination of evidence-based therapies and the latest findings in brain science. I welcome and support diversity and LGBTQ+ folks. I mainly practice Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), a breakthrough in psychological science.
![Photo of Jack Betancourt, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e01ce4dd-abac-41a1-9fea-06f412275ee4/1/320x400.png)
I have a wide repertoire, but I specialize in working with individuals and couples on topics like substance use, depression, anxiety, stress, chronic Illness/pain, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ Issues and identity exploration, grief and life transitions.
I have experience working with diverse clients with a variety of needs. The bulk of my career has been working with LGBTQ+ teens, adults with chronic illnesses, and people who use drugs in harm reduction outreach settings. A through-line in these experiences is recognizing the impact biology as well as its interactions with our social environment has on mental & physical health. As such, I apply a systems approach to understand the factors impacting a client and then leverage client strengths to achieve their goals. I welcome conversations about how structural factors impact health and how therapy can be one tool toward healing.
I have a wide repertoire, but I specialize in working with individuals and couples on topics like substance use, depression, anxiety, stress, chronic Illness/pain, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ Issues and identity exploration, grief and life transitions.
I have experience working with diverse clients with a variety of needs. The bulk of my career has been working with LGBTQ+ teens, adults with chronic illnesses, and people who use drugs in harm reduction outreach settings. A through-line in these experiences is recognizing the impact biology as well as its interactions with our social environment has on mental & physical health. As such, I apply a systems approach to understand the factors impacting a client and then leverage client strengths to achieve their goals. I welcome conversations about how structural factors impact health and how therapy can be one tool toward healing.
![Photo of Marty Romero Brickley - Marty Romero Brickley, M.Ed., LPC, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c6fb23d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marty Romero Brickley, M.Ed., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745
Life Problems * Depression * Anxiety * Life Transitions * Pain Grief & Loss * Marital & Relationship Issues * Fears & Phobias * Parenting Issues * Trauma/PTSD * Existential Issues.
I provide counseling for individuals, couples, marriages and families. I also provide individual sessions for Meridian Tapping and iRest® Yoga Nidra Meditation. I integrate Imago, Meridian Tapping and meditation to empower you in learning to navigate your life and relationships. I guide you in exploring body feelings, emotions and beliefs as well as your relationship systems. I will guide you in learning how to become safe with yourself and how to be empowered in the present while living in the world. I look forward to working with you. I will treat your concerns with the utmost respect and with complete confidentiality.
Life Problems * Depression * Anxiety * Life Transitions * Pain Grief & Loss * Marital & Relationship Issues * Fears & Phobias * Parenting Issues * Trauma/PTSD * Existential Issues.
I provide counseling for individuals, couples, marriages and families. I also provide individual sessions for Meridian Tapping and iRest® Yoga Nidra Meditation. I integrate Imago, Meridian Tapping and meditation to empower you in learning to navigate your life and relationships. I guide you in exploring body feelings, emotions and beliefs as well as your relationship systems. I will guide you in learning how to become safe with yourself and how to be empowered in the present while living in the world. I look forward to working with you. I will treat your concerns with the utmost respect and with complete confidentiality.
![Photo of Julie Jones, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0279bb2b-f1c7-4026-8ecf-a0322b0417e8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78749 (Online Only)
I am an empathic therapist with 18 years therapy experience. Clients often come to me with an impaired sense of self, difficulties in relationships, and feeling unsafe in the world due to trauma/hardships in their lives. I assist my clients in transforming their deepest pain into their greatest strengths, finding passion in life, and confidence in themselves. They learn to have deep and meaningful relationships. Ideally, clients will move from a limited set of beliefs to an expansive perspective on what is possible in this life. I also love working with therapists; their personal work enhances their own practice!
I am an empathic therapist with 18 years therapy experience. Clients often come to me with an impaired sense of self, difficulties in relationships, and feeling unsafe in the world due to trauma/hardships in their lives. I assist my clients in transforming their deepest pain into their greatest strengths, finding passion in life, and confidence in themselves. They learn to have deep and meaningful relationships. Ideally, clients will move from a limited set of beliefs to an expansive perspective on what is possible in this life. I also love working with therapists; their personal work enhances their own practice!
![Photo of Ann DeYoung - DeYoung Counseling, PLLC, LCSW, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/070822bf-8ebf-445d-afb0-1fa1d5d2f127/1/320x400.jpeg)
DeYoung Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78745 (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, relationship concerns, stress, isolation, chronic illness, compassion fatigue, grief and loss, sleep issues, self-esteem, self-compassion, parenting issues, and career transition.
Life can feel overwhelming at times and can be difficult to manage. Unexpected change can challenge our ability to navigate. Thankfully, you don’t have to navigate life’s transitions alone. I'm passionate about working with my clients to gain an understanding of both past and present stressors, while discovering tools for healing and growth. Investing time into better understanding and developing yourself is one of the most pivotal decisions you can make. Self-awareness and self-care are important for success. Together we can explore what gives your life purpose, hope and meaning and discover new paths for living your best life.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, relationship concerns, stress, isolation, chronic illness, compassion fatigue, grief and loss, sleep issues, self-esteem, self-compassion, parenting issues, and career transition.
Life can feel overwhelming at times and can be difficult to manage. Unexpected change can challenge our ability to navigate. Thankfully, you don’t have to navigate life’s transitions alone. I'm passionate about working with my clients to gain an understanding of both past and present stressors, while discovering tools for healing and growth. Investing time into better understanding and developing yourself is one of the most pivotal decisions you can make. Self-awareness and self-care are important for success. Together we can explore what gives your life purpose, hope and meaning and discover new paths for living your best life.
See more therapy options for Sunset Valley
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Sunset Valley
- Austin
- Bee Cave
- Buda
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- Del Valle
- Dripping Springs
- Kyle
- Lakeway
- Pflugerville
- Rollingwood
- Round Rock
- West Lake Hills
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.