Chronic Pain Therapists in Bothell, WA

Photo of Rebekah Hage, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebekah Hage
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98011
Welcome! Making the choice to start therapy can be overwhelming. Knowing what to expect can help. Our sessions will take place via secure Telehealth or in person, depending on your needs. I have over 15 years of experience in working with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief/loss, motherhood, postpartum depression/anxiety and adults navigating life transitions. I utilize holistic, relational and strengths-based approaches to work with you towards growth and healing. I work with adults and couples. I am LGBTQIA+ and Neurodivergent Affirming therapist.
Welcome! Making the choice to start therapy can be overwhelming. Knowing what to expect can help. Our sessions will take place via secure Telehealth or in person, depending on your needs. I have over 15 years of experience in working with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief/loss, motherhood, postpartum depression/anxiety and adults navigating life transitions. I utilize holistic, relational and strengths-based approaches to work with you towards growth and healing. I work with adults and couples. I am LGBTQIA+ and Neurodivergent Affirming therapist.
(425) 215-0785 View (425) 215-0785
Photo of Erin Mullins- Pre- Licensed Counselor, ACHt, LMT, CSP, RYT
Erin Mullins- Pre- Licensed Counselor
ACHt, LMT, CSP, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98011
Do you want to feel more whole? More connected to your life, yourself, and others? Do you struggle with mood, stress, energy, and/or expression? Do you live with pain, anxiety and/or fatigue and know there is something deeper at the root? I can help!.
Counseling with me is strengths-based, humanistic, somatic, transpersonal and existential. My work is rooted in my commitment to personal & collective healing and development. I collaborate with you to create change and reach your therapeutic goals while also focusing on your long-term vision. In addition to counseling & health psych., I am a hypnotherapist, SOMA structural integrator, LMT, craniosacral therapist, death and birth doula, and more. My orientation towards all healing is rooted in the truth that we are all whole and unique and that our patterns are always evolving.
Do you want to feel more whole? More connected to your life, yourself, and others? Do you struggle with mood, stress, energy, and/or expression? Do you live with pain, anxiety and/or fatigue and know there is something deeper at the root? I can help!.
Counseling with me is strengths-based, humanistic, somatic, transpersonal and existential. My work is rooted in my commitment to personal & collective healing and development. I collaborate with you to create change and reach your therapeutic goals while also focusing on your long-term vision. In addition to counseling & health psych., I am a hypnotherapist, SOMA structural integrator, LMT, craniosacral therapist, death and birth doula, and more. My orientation towards all healing is rooted in the truth that we are all whole and unique and that our patterns are always evolving.
(206) 333-0497 View (206) 333-0497
Photo of Grace Hamlow, LMHCA, Counselor
Grace Hamlow
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011  (Online Only)
I consider it an honor each time I am invited to hear clients’ stories, pain, celebrations, and ongoing healing.
I am a holistic, trauma-informed therapist, working with adult individuals to address symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, various forms of trauma, interpersonal issues, substance use and abuse, and with individuals who are on the autism spectrum and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I use a Narrative framework, in addition to CBT and DBT when clinically appropriate. I focus on the client’s relationship to their experiences, strengths, and issues/symptoms. In addition to our depth-work, I provide coping skills and activities based on your needs and to reduce distressful symptoms.
I consider it an honor each time I am invited to hear clients’ stories, pain, celebrations, and ongoing healing.
I am a holistic, trauma-informed therapist, working with adult individuals to address symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, various forms of trauma, interpersonal issues, substance use and abuse, and with individuals who are on the autism spectrum and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I use a Narrative framework, in addition to CBT and DBT when clinically appropriate. I focus on the client’s relationship to their experiences, strengths, and issues/symptoms. In addition to our depth-work, I provide coping skills and activities based on your needs and to reduce distressful symptoms.
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Photo of Jauna Cruz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jauna Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98011
Not accepting new clients
Finding the right therapist can be challenging! But feeling connected and safe is essential to the work you will do in therapy. It takes a lot of courage to open your life up to someone else, to be vulnerable and willing to work on yourself. I place a high priority on creating a safe space for clients to share, we get enough judgment elsewhere in life. I am passionate about helping individuals struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, body image, relationship issues, work/career stress and communication issues. I have experience working at intensive treatment settings for eating disorders, substance use and chronic pain as well.
Finding the right therapist can be challenging! But feeling connected and safe is essential to the work you will do in therapy. It takes a lot of courage to open your life up to someone else, to be vulnerable and willing to work on yourself. I place a high priority on creating a safe space for clients to share, we get enough judgment elsewhere in life. I am passionate about helping individuals struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, body image, relationship issues, work/career stress and communication issues. I have experience working at intensive treatment settings for eating disorders, substance use and chronic pain as well.
(425) 970-8128 View (425) 970-8128
Photo of Aliya Zafer, MA, LMHC
Aliya Zafer
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
My area of expertise is assisting people with complex medical challenges such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, trauma, sleep problems, diabetes, and other medical conditions.
I am an active listener, and my goal is to listen to my clients and help them to deal with their issues. I realize the need to be heard, so I am here to listen so that we can both get along in this journey together to find unique solutions. I typically work with adult clients & however, in some instances I also take on clients who are older adolescents or older adults. Saturday appointments are available. I look forward to meeting you.
My area of expertise is assisting people with complex medical challenges such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, trauma, sleep problems, diabetes, and other medical conditions.
I am an active listener, and my goal is to listen to my clients and help them to deal with their issues. I realize the need to be heard, so I am here to listen so that we can both get along in this journey together to find unique solutions. I typically work with adult clients & however, in some instances I also take on clients who are older adolescents or older adults. Saturday appointments are available. I look forward to meeting you.
(425) 215-1415 View (425) 215-1415
Photo of Diane Beecher Morrison, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Diane Beecher Morrison
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
Supporting them as they journey with you while you nurture your mental health struggles and decisions surrounding illness and end-of-life, is a significant component of this transition that cannot be ignored.
I am now accepting new clients! I specialize in problems affecting aging adults and their families. And thank you for taking this first step in your counseling journey! Age I enjoy helping all individuals throughout their life span; however as we go through our seasons of life, anxiety, depression, grief, and loneliness can be prevalent emotions that impede our everyday life: you deserve a fresh start and positive change! As the world is changing, so is our work life, our families, an d everything in between. My support will also help, children, grandchildren and couples within your family unit.
Supporting them as they journey with you while you nurture your mental health struggles and decisions surrounding illness and end-of-life, is a significant component of this transition that cannot be ignored.
I am now accepting new clients! I specialize in problems affecting aging adults and their families. And thank you for taking this first step in your counseling journey! Age I enjoy helping all individuals throughout their life span; however as we go through our seasons of life, anxiety, depression, grief, and loneliness can be prevalent emotions that impede our everyday life: you deserve a fresh start and positive change! As the world is changing, so is our work life, our families, an d everything in between. My support will also help, children, grandchildren and couples within your family unit.
(425) 414-8576 View (425) 414-8576
Photo of Bobbie Winter, LMHCA, MA, Counselor
Bobbie Winter
Counselor, LMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98021
I often work with trauma, PTSD, relational issues, depression, anxiety, illness/caregiving, and work/life balance and happiness.
I support individuals and couples navigating life changes. Therapy can help shift something within our control or change how we relate to things outside our control. This might look like understanding why we're repeating patterns and what we can do to change them or developing healthy strategies and boundaries to deal with people, places, and things we can't change. We'll work to identify the patterns of emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships currently showing up in your life, and how you want to adjust them to live a life more in alignment with what you truly value.
I often work with trauma, PTSD, relational issues, depression, anxiety, illness/caregiving, and work/life balance and happiness.
I support individuals and couples navigating life changes. Therapy can help shift something within our control or change how we relate to things outside our control. This might look like understanding why we're repeating patterns and what we can do to change them or developing healthy strategies and boundaries to deal with people, places, and things we can't change. We'll work to identify the patterns of emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships currently showing up in your life, and how you want to adjust them to live a life more in alignment with what you truly value.
(206) 438-9478 View (206) 438-9478
Photo of Neil R. Jones, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Neil R. Jones
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with couples, working with people experiencing anxiety, OCD, panic (anxiety) attacks, depression, chronic pain, and pornography addiction.
I provide a combination of evidence-based and relational therapies to provide individuals, couples, and families the best possible outcomes toward their goals. Combining compassion and information to help people identify the specific obstacles in their lives that hold them back from being satisfied and content in their lives, I help them decide on a plan of action to effect the change in their life that they desire. My goal is to provide you with the tools you need and work together to learn how to effectively implement them and utilize them for life.
I enjoy working with couples, working with people experiencing anxiety, OCD, panic (anxiety) attacks, depression, chronic pain, and pornography addiction.
I provide a combination of evidence-based and relational therapies to provide individuals, couples, and families the best possible outcomes toward their goals. Combining compassion and information to help people identify the specific obstacles in their lives that hold them back from being satisfied and content in their lives, I help them decide on a plan of action to effect the change in their life that they desire. My goal is to provide you with the tools you need and work together to learn how to effectively implement them and utilize them for life.
(425) 728-8212 View (425) 728-8212
Photo of David G Rasmussen, PsyD, Psychologist
David G Rasmussen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
Not accepting new clients
When someone comes for psychotherapy its because of emotional pain that feels unbearable. Everyone has blindspots, and a crisis can be growth producing when caring, understanding, and respect are offered during vulnerable times of life. To my way of thinking, by strengthening self- awareness of the depth and breadth of the intricacies of one's own emotions and thoughts, there is tremendous help in facing the challenges of living. As psychotherapy continues past a beginning point, discoveries and learning occur through a joint effort, gathering a fuller appreciation of the events in life that have led to a crucial point.
When someone comes for psychotherapy its because of emotional pain that feels unbearable. Everyone has blindspots, and a crisis can be growth producing when caring, understanding, and respect are offered during vulnerable times of life. To my way of thinking, by strengthening self- awareness of the depth and breadth of the intricacies of one's own emotions and thoughts, there is tremendous help in facing the challenges of living. As psychotherapy continues past a beginning point, discoveries and learning occur through a joint effort, gathering a fuller appreciation of the events in life that have led to a crucial point.
(425) 678-3717 View (425) 678-3717
Photo of Dena Nichols, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Dena Nichols
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
Not accepting new clients
Have you or a family member been struggling with discouragement, worry, sadness or loss? Are you feeling lonely instead of close to others? Perhaps your facing significant parenting or relationship challenges. I provide support, insight, solutions and hope through these and other challenges. My working syle is collaborative, interactive, warm and supportive. My experience includes the following areas: abuse, ADD/ADHD, addiction, adjusting to transition, adolescent issues, adoption, anxiey, chronic illness, communication struggles, depression, grief/loss, infertility, faith issues, miscarriage, parenting, premarital counseling, relational conficts, school and social difficulties and more.
Have you or a family member been struggling with discouragement, worry, sadness or loss? Are you feeling lonely instead of close to others? Perhaps your facing significant parenting or relationship challenges. I provide support, insight, solutions and hope through these and other challenges. My working syle is collaborative, interactive, warm and supportive. My experience includes the following areas: abuse, ADD/ADHD, addiction, adjusting to transition, adolescent issues, adoption, anxiey, chronic illness, communication struggles, depression, grief/loss, infertility, faith issues, miscarriage, parenting, premarital counseling, relational conficts, school and social difficulties and more.
(425) 610-9862 View (425) 610-9862
Photo of Jordan Anderson - Jordan Anderson PLLC, MA, LMHC, CHT, BSP II, Counselor
Jordan Anderson PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CHT, BSP II
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98011
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in Brainspotting, a brain-body based relational therapy that can help with mental health symptoms, intense emotions, and physical pain.
Hello! I have over twenty-five years of experience working with people with a variety of issues and concerns including anxiety, social anxiety, PTSD and Complex PTSD, depression, physical pain, marital and family conflict, parenting topics, adolescent development, midlife phase, and grief and loss. I am also a Clinical Supervisor. My Practice is Currently Full.
I specialize in Brainspotting, a brain-body based relational therapy that can help with mental health symptoms, intense emotions, and physical pain.
Hello! I have over twenty-five years of experience working with people with a variety of issues and concerns including anxiety, social anxiety, PTSD and Complex PTSD, depression, physical pain, marital and family conflict, parenting topics, adolescent development, midlife phase, and grief and loss. I am also a Clinical Supervisor. My Practice is Currently Full.
(206) 535-1637 View (206) 535-1637
Photo of Gale Dhaliwal, PhD, Psychologist
Gale Dhaliwal
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
My work focuses on individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, infertility, chronic illness, pregnancy loss, bereavement, and adjustment to loss and change.
Welcome to Eastside Mental Wellness. Whether you are experiencing a long-standing issue or a sudden change in your life, you will find help and hope here. I have been a psychologist for 9 years, working with couples undergoing infertility or pregnancy loss, and individuals facing a new medical diagnosis, depression and anxiety. Together, we will infuse new hope into your life and better tools to handle the challenges facing you.
My work focuses on individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, infertility, chronic illness, pregnancy loss, bereavement, and adjustment to loss and change.
Welcome to Eastside Mental Wellness. Whether you are experiencing a long-standing issue or a sudden change in your life, you will find help and hope here. I have been a psychologist for 9 years, working with couples undergoing infertility or pregnancy loss, and individuals facing a new medical diagnosis, depression and anxiety. Together, we will infuse new hope into your life and better tools to handle the challenges facing you.
(425) 549-9902 View (425) 549-9902
Photo of Emili Fletcher, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emili Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98011
Many people say life doesn't go according to plan. We all know that to be true. Life goes up and down with many bits and pieces that make our story. As we are going through our life we may not understand or want parts of our story that entail grief and pain. YOUR story is what makes you, what has happened in your life, and what hasn't happened in your life. Many of us tend to have expectations of who we are supposed to be and how to navigate life, that we may forget to live life. Life isn't about pushing through, dread and pain. It's about the hope that pain and loss can be grieved and change can happen in your heart.
Many people say life doesn't go according to plan. We all know that to be true. Life goes up and down with many bits and pieces that make our story. As we are going through our life we may not understand or want parts of our story that entail grief and pain. YOUR story is what makes you, what has happened in your life, and what hasn't happened in your life. Many of us tend to have expectations of who we are supposed to be and how to navigate life, that we may forget to live life. Life isn't about pushing through, dread and pain. It's about the hope that pain and loss can be grieved and change can happen in your heart.
(253) 242-2351 View (253) 242-2351
Photo of Faith Marshall - Awakenings Hypnosis and Coaching
Awakenings Hypnosis and Coaching
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
Welcome to Awakenings Hypnosis & Coaching. I’m Faith Marshall CHT, and I’m glad you’re here. When used together, hypnosis and coaching are very powerful techniques for better understanding ourselves and making lasting changes. I am a certified Medical Hypnotherapist, specializing in Stress, Sleep and Pain Management. My passion is helping clients with Dementia & Parkinson's families providing education, resources, and hypnosis as support for caregivers and families. My services bring comfort and peace of mind, and even show families how to allow joy to be present the journey. And Remember When you feel the beat...DANCE!
Welcome to Awakenings Hypnosis & Coaching. I’m Faith Marshall CHT, and I’m glad you’re here. When used together, hypnosis and coaching are very powerful techniques for better understanding ourselves and making lasting changes. I am a certified Medical Hypnotherapist, specializing in Stress, Sleep and Pain Management. My passion is helping clients with Dementia & Parkinson's families providing education, resources, and hypnosis as support for caregivers and families. My services bring comfort and peace of mind, and even show families how to allow joy to be present the journey. And Remember When you feel the beat...DANCE!
(206) 309-1195 View (206) 309-1195
Photo of Carrie Lipp, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Carrie Lipp
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98012  (Online Only)
I work with adults who struggle to fit the mold of what's expected for them - by the people in their lives, by dominant cultural narratives, or by their own internal messaging. There are so many stories of who we are "supposed" to be - it can be overwhelming and disheartening to be met with struggle everywhere you turn and to not feel like you're living your most authentic life. While I welcome clients of many different backgrounds, I have particular experience working with clients experiencing chronic illness & pain, anxiety & depression, low self-worth, indecision, and disconnection from others.
I work with adults who struggle to fit the mold of what's expected for them - by the people in their lives, by dominant cultural narratives, or by their own internal messaging. There are so many stories of who we are "supposed" to be - it can be overwhelming and disheartening to be met with struggle everywhere you turn and to not feel like you're living your most authentic life. While I welcome clients of many different backgrounds, I have particular experience working with clients experiencing chronic illness & pain, anxiety & depression, low self-worth, indecision, and disconnection from others.
(206) 580-1697 View (206) 580-1697
Photo of Dustin Shatto, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Dustin Shatto
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
Are you at a crossroads in life? I support adults as they work through present struggles and past painful experiences like divorce, career issues, chronic pain, grief, parenting concerns, and other stressors. Another focus area of my practice is on processing religious abuse, deconstruction, and spiritual exploration. It is common to experience anxiety, depression, low self esteem, and a host of other symptoms in response to traumatic experiences, but healing is possible no matter what you are facing.
Are you at a crossroads in life? I support adults as they work through present struggles and past painful experiences like divorce, career issues, chronic pain, grief, parenting concerns, and other stressors. Another focus area of my practice is on processing religious abuse, deconstruction, and spiritual exploration. It is common to experience anxiety, depression, low self esteem, and a host of other symptoms in response to traumatic experiences, but healing is possible no matter what you are facing.
(425) 243-3031 View (425) 243-3031
Photo of Sarah Sherrell, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah Sherrell
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Have you been dealing with increased symptoms of anxiety or depression? You are not alone. I am here to support you. In your sessions, I offer deep listening as you share your experiences of pain and uncertainty. We will pay attention to your mind-body connection, growing your awareness for the physical messages that your body sends regarding your emotional experience--whether these messages shows up as tense muscles, increased heart rate, nausea, lack of energy, etc. In this way, therapy offers the opportunity to care for your whole self.
Have you been dealing with increased symptoms of anxiety or depression? You are not alone. I am here to support you. In your sessions, I offer deep listening as you share your experiences of pain and uncertainty. We will pay attention to your mind-body connection, growing your awareness for the physical messages that your body sends regarding your emotional experience--whether these messages shows up as tense muscles, increased heart rate, nausea, lack of energy, etc. In this way, therapy offers the opportunity to care for your whole self.
(206) 208-0522 View (206) 208-0522
Photo of Ingrid Johnston, MS, LMFT, MDFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ingrid Johnston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, MDFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98011
Clients who work with m desire to grow relationally, physically, psychologically and spiritually. Are you yearning for deeper connection in your relationship with yourself and other people? Do you need help learning to trust yourself and others, make sense of the past and present or find more peace? If you are willing to embark on an open and honest journey of healing and self-discovery, then my services are for you. I work with people of all pronouns who want to embody their most aligned life. Working holistically I will attend to issues through the lens of the body, mind, emotions, spirit, relationships, and sexuality.
Clients who work with m desire to grow relationally, physically, psychologically and spiritually. Are you yearning for deeper connection in your relationship with yourself and other people? Do you need help learning to trust yourself and others, make sense of the past and present or find more peace? If you are willing to embark on an open and honest journey of healing and self-discovery, then my services are for you. I work with people of all pronouns who want to embody their most aligned life. Working holistically I will attend to issues through the lens of the body, mind, emotions, spirit, relationships, and sexuality.
(206) 203-3068 View (206) 203-3068
Photo of Michelle Woodward, LCPC, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Michelle Woodward
Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
I help individuals learn to accept themselves and others as they are, manage their emotions, and improve relationships. Acceptance allows for growth. I specialize in helping individuals resolve symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. I believe we all have the capacity to heal given the right tools and environment. My work with clients is grounded in mindfulness based, cognitive behavioral theory. Counseling is provided in a private, comfortable, non-judgmental environment. Telehealth sessions are available at this time. Together, we will use your existing strengths to move you toward optimal health.
I help individuals learn to accept themselves and others as they are, manage their emotions, and improve relationships. Acceptance allows for growth. I specialize in helping individuals resolve symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. I believe we all have the capacity to heal given the right tools and environment. My work with clients is grounded in mindfulness based, cognitive behavioral theory. Counseling is provided in a private, comfortable, non-judgmental environment. Telehealth sessions are available at this time. Together, we will use your existing strengths to move you toward optimal health.
(509) 519-3089 View (509) 519-3089
Photo of Kathryn D. Sonja, MSW, MHP, LSWAIC, CCTP, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn D. Sonja
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MHP, LSWAIC, CCTP, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98021  (Online Only)
I specialize in women’s health & embodied healing. I am body-mind centered, strength based & practice from an integrative-holistic perspective. I provide personalized-whole person care, tailored treatment plans which are collaboratively created based on client’s voice, lived experiences & expressed needs. I am passionate about empowering women to reclaim, to learn to befriend & trust their bodies wisdom & healing trauma at the nervous system level. I create a safe, compassionate, exploratory space, where witnessing, genuine curiosity, lived experiences, & deep seated empathy, supports authentic connection & rapport with my clients.
I specialize in women’s health & embodied healing. I am body-mind centered, strength based & practice from an integrative-holistic perspective. I provide personalized-whole person care, tailored treatment plans which are collaboratively created based on client’s voice, lived experiences & expressed needs. I am passionate about empowering women to reclaim, to learn to befriend & trust their bodies wisdom & healing trauma at the nervous system level. I create a safe, compassionate, exploratory space, where witnessing, genuine curiosity, lived experiences, & deep seated empathy, supports authentic connection & rapport with my clients.
(425) 428-6918 View (425) 428-6918
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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.