Chronic Pain Therapists in Centreville, VA

Photo of Dorothy Smith, LCSW, MSW, BFA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dorothy Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20121
Anxiety? Let's calm the mental hurricane together? I have limited space available. Anxiety and the related trauma, stress, PTSD, and depression can be treated if you are willing to work at therapy. So come ready to work and let's do this! Let me help you work on: decreasing those worried thoughts, meditation, boundary setting, self-compassion, healing your mental pain, and slowing down to see where you want to go in life. I will partner with you to work on your goals. And hey, if I don't answer, I may be helping someone, so please do leave a message.
Anxiety? Let's calm the mental hurricane together? I have limited space available. Anxiety and the related trauma, stress, PTSD, and depression can be treated if you are willing to work at therapy. So come ready to work and let's do this! Let me help you work on: decreasing those worried thoughts, meditation, boundary setting, self-compassion, healing your mental pain, and slowing down to see where you want to go in life. I will partner with you to work on your goals. And hey, if I don't answer, I may be helping someone, so please do leave a message.
(703) 884-8997 View (703) 884-8997
Photo of Dr. Daniel M Kimonyi, LPC-R, PhD
Dr. Daniel M Kimonyi
LPC-R, PhD
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20121
I believe that we are all people of infinite value, and my therapeutic approach helps individuals pursue meaning, purpose, and vitality through the beauty, pain, and imperfection of their lived experiences.
When grappling with life's relentless challenges, like grief, loss, trauma, depression, and anxiety, we can feel trapped in a seemingly unchangeable reality. In these moments, Viktor Frankl's poignant words ring true: "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." As your therapist, I am committed to walking alongside you and igniting this inherent transformative power within you. Together, we'll journey through these difficult times, building resilience and strength, and carving out fresh perspectives to light your way forward.
I believe that we are all people of infinite value, and my therapeutic approach helps individuals pursue meaning, purpose, and vitality through the beauty, pain, and imperfection of their lived experiences.
When grappling with life's relentless challenges, like grief, loss, trauma, depression, and anxiety, we can feel trapped in a seemingly unchangeable reality. In these moments, Viktor Frankl's poignant words ring true: "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." As your therapist, I am committed to walking alongside you and igniting this inherent transformative power within you. Together, we'll journey through these difficult times, building resilience and strength, and carving out fresh perspectives to light your way forward.
(434) 216-3704 View (434) 216-3704
Photo of Andrea Levy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20120
Waitlist for new clients
I currently practice with adults facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, separation and divorce, fertility, pregnancy & infant loss, self esteem, grief, trauma, emotional aspects of illness and disease, medical and surgical weight loss, career & family balance, life transitions and LGBTQIA+.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I view therapy as a collaborative process that enables clients to gain perspective on their emotions, beliefs, relationships and behaviors. My approach is empathic, authentic and warm. I work from a strengths based perspective and assist clients in facing life challenges in realistic ways through a combination of cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a confidential, safe environment for exploration and change.
I currently practice with adults facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, separation and divorce, fertility, pregnancy & infant loss, self esteem, grief, trauma, emotional aspects of illness and disease, medical and surgical weight loss, career & family balance, life transitions and LGBTQIA+.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I view therapy as a collaborative process that enables clients to gain perspective on their emotions, beliefs, relationships and behaviors. My approach is empathic, authentic and warm. I work from a strengths based perspective and assist clients in facing life challenges in realistic ways through a combination of cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a confidential, safe environment for exploration and change.
(703) 634-4782 View (703) 634-4782
Photo of Anastasia Schlaefer, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Anastasia Schlaefer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20121
Life challenges can be difficult and tiring to navigate, whether those challenges are new or familiar to you. As a Supervisee in Social work I aim to support individuals of all ages in recognizing their resiliency, achieving their goals, and continuing their journey of growth. I support clients of all ages, and have a focus on anxiety, depression, chronic illness, women's challenges, and trauma work.
Life challenges can be difficult and tiring to navigate, whether those challenges are new or familiar to you. As a Supervisee in Social work I aim to support individuals of all ages in recognizing their resiliency, achieving their goals, and continuing their journey of growth. I support clients of all ages, and have a focus on anxiety, depression, chronic illness, women's challenges, and trauma work.
(571) 596-7582 View (571) 596-7582
Photo of Elayne Smith - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20121
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/ pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/ pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
(703) 879-3275 View (703) 879-3275
Photo of Ann Boyer Holmes - Ann Boyer Holmes, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Boyer Holmes, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20120
Would you like to become the best version of yourself? That journey begins with figuring out what you want, choosing what you believe and taking responsibility for the changes you want to make. This is a step by step process best achieved in an environment of unconditional positive regard, validation and genuineness. I use evidence-based techniques including Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy along with mindfulness, assertiveness training and relaxation techniques. I am out of network for all insurance but happy to help you navigate that process. Ask me if you qualify for a reduced fee.
Would you like to become the best version of yourself? That journey begins with figuring out what you want, choosing what you believe and taking responsibility for the changes you want to make. This is a step by step process best achieved in an environment of unconditional positive regard, validation and genuineness. I use evidence-based techniques including Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy along with mindfulness, assertiveness training and relaxation techniques. I am out of network for all insurance but happy to help you navigate that process. Ask me if you qualify for a reduced fee.
(703) 884-2177 View (703) 884-2177
Photo of Erika Neil, LCSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Neil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20120  (Online Only)
Building on the strengths of each client, I provide a warm, accepting environment in which to address inner and outer obstacles. My clients are typically dealing with difficult transitions or emotional states that are preventing them from enjoying life to the fullest. I work collaboratively to understand and get to the root of distressing thoughts and feelings. My style is compassionate and solution-focused, and is individualized to each person's needs. I teach clients mind-body strategies to empower them to handle challenges, and to cultivate positive emotional states.
Building on the strengths of each client, I provide a warm, accepting environment in which to address inner and outer obstacles. My clients are typically dealing with difficult transitions or emotional states that are preventing them from enjoying life to the fullest. I work collaboratively to understand and get to the root of distressing thoughts and feelings. My style is compassionate and solution-focused, and is individualized to each person's needs. I teach clients mind-body strategies to empower them to handle challenges, and to cultivate positive emotional states.
(571) 200-1202 View (571) 200-1202
Photo of Jasmine Appleton - Jasmine Appleton, Psy.D, LPC, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jasmine Appleton, Psy.D, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20121
My name is Dr. Jasmine Appleton and I have over 15 years of experience helping my clients and patients work through underlying issues in order to be the best version of themselves. I use DBT, CBT, hypnosis, and meditation based practices to help you gain self-awareness, and insight into your thoughts and behaviors. I educate my clients on what is happening psychologically, emotionally, and neurologically in order to work on self-acceptance, which in turn, trickles into all aspects of our lives including interpersonal relationships. Also encourage family members attend, as family dynamics create the construct of our present self.
My name is Dr. Jasmine Appleton and I have over 15 years of experience helping my clients and patients work through underlying issues in order to be the best version of themselves. I use DBT, CBT, hypnosis, and meditation based practices to help you gain self-awareness, and insight into your thoughts and behaviors. I educate my clients on what is happening psychologically, emotionally, and neurologically in order to work on self-acceptance, which in turn, trickles into all aspects of our lives including interpersonal relationships. Also encourage family members attend, as family dynamics create the construct of our present self.
(703) 215-2563 View (703) 215-2563
Photo of Alyssa S Clevinger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa S Clevinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20120  (Online Only)
In a world full of unknowns, I want my clients to have the ability to trust themselves and their abilities. With trust in oneself, you can do anything and work through any obstacle. During our lifetime, we learn that outside influences can impact our sense of confidence and worth. It is important to me for my clients to learn and lean into their authentic needs and understand that their home is within themselves. We will work to identify coping mechanisms that can support you through many life struggles and build habits that can assist in you living your best life.
In a world full of unknowns, I want my clients to have the ability to trust themselves and their abilities. With trust in oneself, you can do anything and work through any obstacle. During our lifetime, we learn that outside influences can impact our sense of confidence and worth. It is important to me for my clients to learn and lean into their authentic needs and understand that their home is within themselves. We will work to identify coping mechanisms that can support you through many life struggles and build habits that can assist in you living your best life.
(240) 389-3790 View (240) 389-3790
Photo of Kristen Dwyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Dwyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20121
I work with clients to go deep into the origins of who they are and how life and relationships have shaped them. When you look deeper into your story you can make sense of how you have learned to navigate connection, emotions, conflict, boundaries, and relational needs. We can explore the stuck points, protectors, adaptations, and threat mitigation strategies you have needed up until now. We can also make space for any parts or wounds that need healing or going back for. Along the way, I can help you access your inner resources, wisdom, and resilience. My role is to help you explore the other possibilities available to you.
I work with clients to go deep into the origins of who they are and how life and relationships have shaped them. When you look deeper into your story you can make sense of how you have learned to navigate connection, emotions, conflict, boundaries, and relational needs. We can explore the stuck points, protectors, adaptations, and threat mitigation strategies you have needed up until now. We can also make space for any parts or wounds that need healing or going back for. Along the way, I can help you access your inner resources, wisdom, and resilience. My role is to help you explore the other possibilities available to you.
(571) 202-7045 View (571) 202-7045
Photo of Megan Adair Casteel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Adair Casteel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20120
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with work experience in schools and outpatient practice. I believe that we all have the ability to lead rich, beautiful lives, sometimes we just don't have the tools (yet) to make that happen. I work primarily with older children (especially middle schoolers), adolescents/teens, and young adults, though I and others in my practice also work with adults. I can help with many conditions, including ADHD, depression, and anxiety. I specialize in working with autistic clients and/or those in the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with work experience in schools and outpatient practice. I believe that we all have the ability to lead rich, beautiful lives, sometimes we just don't have the tools (yet) to make that happen. I work primarily with older children (especially middle schoolers), adolescents/teens, and young adults, though I and others in my practice also work with adults. I can help with many conditions, including ADHD, depression, and anxiety. I specialize in working with autistic clients and/or those in the LGBTQIA+ community.
(571) 364-6750 View (571) 364-6750
Photo of Shonna Pope, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shonna Pope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20120  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you tired and overwhelmed with a situation in your life? Do you wake up in the mornings wondering how you got to this place? Sometimes we get stuck in life and can't find our way out or don't know how to create change. Whether you're struggling with a relationship issue, a divorce, remarriage with step children, a loss, a work issue or simply wanting to learn more about yourself, I will join you on your journey to feeling more content and happier in your life.
Are you tired and overwhelmed with a situation in your life? Do you wake up in the mornings wondering how you got to this place? Sometimes we get stuck in life and can't find our way out or don't know how to create change. Whether you're struggling with a relationship issue, a divorce, remarriage with step children, a loss, a work issue or simply wanting to learn more about yourself, I will join you on your journey to feeling more content and happier in your life.
(703) 468-8359 View (703) 468-8359

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Natalie Chaykin Pierce, PsyD, Psychologist
Natalie Chaykin Pierce
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031
Pierce provides education about stress physiology, how stress and emotions interact with chronic pain, and how biofeedback and specific relaxation techniques can help.
Dr. Natalie Pierce specializes in the treatment of chronic pain/ illnesses, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, body image concerns, life transitions, and depression. Dr. Pierce is board-certified in biofeedback and practices therapy primarily from CBT/ACT and positive psychology perspectives through a health psychology lens to help patients manage stress, transition after an injury or disease, and cope with pain, loss, feeling “stuck,” anxiety, and depression.
Pierce provides education about stress physiology, how stress and emotions interact with chronic pain, and how biofeedback and specific relaxation techniques can help.
Dr. Natalie Pierce specializes in the treatment of chronic pain/ illnesses, insomnia, OCD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, body image concerns, life transitions, and depression. Dr. Pierce is board-certified in biofeedback and practices therapy primarily from CBT/ACT and positive psychology perspectives through a health psychology lens to help patients manage stress, transition after an injury or disease, and cope with pain, loss, feeling “stuck,” anxiety, and depression.
(703) 952-5233 View (703) 952-5233
Photo of Ali Navidi, PsyD, Psychologist
Ali Navidi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burke, VA 22015
I have had the privilege to work with patients with many different challenges such as anxiety, depression, IBS and chronic pain.
Have you tried hard to change, but nothing seems to work? Are you frustrated, maybe even disillusioned? Are you capable of more, but don't know how to make it happen?
I have had the privilege to work with patients with many different challenges such as anxiety, depression, IBS and chronic pain.
Have you tried hard to change, but nothing seems to work? Are you frustrated, maybe even disillusioned? Are you capable of more, but don't know how to make it happen?
(240) 808-2409 View (240) 808-2409
Photo of Henriette Kellum, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Henriette Kellum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 20151
welcome. I hope that I can be helpful to you. I work with young adults, persons in mid life and older adults who need help with a variety of issues including challenging life events, transition and change, loss, grief, illness, depression, anxiety, caregiving and resource awareness. My goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of my clients who are struggling with life challenges. I do this by listening empathically, guiding my clients through personal exploration and providing support as they do so. I also provide resource information as appropriate.
welcome. I hope that I can be helpful to you. I work with young adults, persons in mid life and older adults who need help with a variety of issues including challenging life events, transition and change, loss, grief, illness, depression, anxiety, caregiving and resource awareness. My goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of my clients who are struggling with life challenges. I do this by listening empathically, guiding my clients through personal exploration and providing support as they do so. I also provide resource information as appropriate.
(703) 957-7735 View (703) 957-7735
Photo of Amy Heard-Davison, PhD, Psychologist
Amy Heard-Davison
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Waitlist for new clients
For clients dealing with chronic illness, we find ways to reduce symptoms and increase enjoyment in life.
I believe that everyone has the ability to heal, learn, and thrive in the face of life's inevitable challenges. I provide individualized, compassionate care using techniques that are skills- focused and evidence-based. In my practice, these approaches have proven helpful for people struggling with medical issues such as neurological disorders, chronic pain, or fatigue and other symptoms related to physical imbalances. Many of my clients are also facing relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, a major life transition, or a recent loss. I help individuals and couples to create more vital, balanced, and meaningful lives.
For clients dealing with chronic illness, we find ways to reduce symptoms and increase enjoyment in life.
I believe that everyone has the ability to heal, learn, and thrive in the face of life's inevitable challenges. I provide individualized, compassionate care using techniques that are skills- focused and evidence-based. In my practice, these approaches have proven helpful for people struggling with medical issues such as neurological disorders, chronic pain, or fatigue and other symptoms related to physical imbalances. Many of my clients are also facing relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, a major life transition, or a recent loss. I help individuals and couples to create more vital, balanced, and meaningful lives.
(703) 997-1417 View (703) 997-1417
Photo of Raymond A. Bradni, PhD, Psychologist
Raymond A. Bradni
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22033
, Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional nausea, functional abdominal pain, chronic pain, migraine, trauma-related weight gain, sleep-wake cycle dysregulation, etc.
Mind-body (psychosomatic) dysregulation is challenging and complex and primarily associated with difficult emotions (e.g., anxiety, panic, depression, anger, guilt, etc.), relational difficulties (e.g., social isolation), and self-esteem concerns. Through rigorous clinical observation, I designed Analytical Health Psychotherapy (AHP), an insight-oriented approach to Health Psychology in which the therapeutic relationship will contain complex emotions while we analyze, tolerate, and understand the unconscious roots of the physical symptoms. Hence, the physical symptoms will diminish while you gain insight into their functions.
, Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional nausea, functional abdominal pain, chronic pain, migraine, trauma-related weight gain, sleep-wake cycle dysregulation, etc.
Mind-body (psychosomatic) dysregulation is challenging and complex and primarily associated with difficult emotions (e.g., anxiety, panic, depression, anger, guilt, etc.), relational difficulties (e.g., social isolation), and self-esteem concerns. Through rigorous clinical observation, I designed Analytical Health Psychotherapy (AHP), an insight-oriented approach to Health Psychology in which the therapeutic relationship will contain complex emotions while we analyze, tolerate, and understand the unconscious roots of the physical symptoms. Hence, the physical symptoms will diminish while you gain insight into their functions.
(571) 470-6791 View (571) 470-6791
Photo of Julia B. Sayre - Julia B. Sayre, LMFT, LLC, MS, LMFT, CT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia B. Sayre, LMFT, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20109
I am certified in Traumatology, Pain Reprocessing Therapy and Warriors at Ease Meditation.
My clients seek trauma-informed marriage counseling, relationship and individual therapy. You may be in a transition: marriage; parenthood; military service or veteran; divorce; or remarriage. Or feeling frustrated with your child or teen, extended family, or coworkers. You may be noticing emotional or relationship effects of recent or past trauma, or grief and loss. You or a family member may be addressing aging, chronic pain or medical issues. Healthy relationships start with self-understanding and self-compassion, enabling you to know yourself so that you can connect meaningfully with others who are important in your life.
I am certified in Traumatology, Pain Reprocessing Therapy and Warriors at Ease Meditation.
My clients seek trauma-informed marriage counseling, relationship and individual therapy. You may be in a transition: marriage; parenthood; military service or veteran; divorce; or remarriage. Or feeling frustrated with your child or teen, extended family, or coworkers. You may be noticing emotional or relationship effects of recent or past trauma, or grief and loss. You or a family member may be addressing aging, chronic pain or medical issues. Healthy relationships start with self-understanding and self-compassion, enabling you to know yourself so that you can connect meaningfully with others who are important in your life.
(540) 787-3563 View (540) 787-3563
Photo of Intake Coordinator Grief Ffx - Therapy for Grief, Loss & Endings at CCHC, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
Therapy for Grief, Loss & Endings at CCHC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
We can help you balance connection and sharing while honoring individual needs, pain, and coping strategies.
We are wired for love and meaning. When we lose the people/things we care about, it is deeply felt in our body, mind, and spirit. Loss can disorient, disorganize, and disrupt our identity, place in the world, and sense of security. Grieving a loss (passing of a loved one, arelationship ending, or change in life circumstances such as career, health, or location) is a sacred process of honoring the very important role, needs, and purpose the person or important thing offered you. Grief represents a fundamental dilemma, how to love and live with an open heart and survive the inevitable endings, transitions, and losses that life brings.
We can help you balance connection and sharing while honoring individual needs, pain, and coping strategies.
We are wired for love and meaning. When we lose the people/things we care about, it is deeply felt in our body, mind, and spirit. Loss can disorient, disorganize, and disrupt our identity, place in the world, and sense of security. Grieving a loss (passing of a loved one, arelationship ending, or change in life circumstances such as career, health, or location) is a sacred process of honoring the very important role, needs, and purpose the person or important thing offered you. Grief represents a fundamental dilemma, how to love and live with an open heart and survive the inevitable endings, transitions, and losses that life brings.
(571) 200-3248 View (571) 200-3248
Photo of Courtney Glickman - The Collective Healing Center, Counselor
The Collective Healing Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031
Our goal is to empower our clients to access their reparative energy, to acknowledge and express their pain, and to gain a sense of control.
The Collective Healing Center is an evidence-based private practice that provides trauma-informed mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. Our clinical staff is especially trained to work in individual, couples, or family therapy formats. We specialize in the areas of children and families, trauma, attachment disruptions, perinatal and postpartum mental health, life transitions, gender diversity, and sexual orientation. Our clinicians have ample familiarity with trauma-related issues and symptoms such as self-injury, dissociation, eating concerns, grief and sexual behaviors.
Our goal is to empower our clients to access their reparative energy, to acknowledge and express their pain, and to gain a sense of control.
The Collective Healing Center is an evidence-based private practice that provides trauma-informed mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults. Our clinical staff is especially trained to work in individual, couples, or family therapy formats. We specialize in the areas of children and families, trauma, attachment disruptions, perinatal and postpartum mental health, life transitions, gender diversity, and sexual orientation. Our clinicians have ample familiarity with trauma-related issues and symptoms such as self-injury, dissociation, eating concerns, grief and sexual behaviors.
(410) 632-6097 View (410) 632-6097

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.