Chronic Pain Therapists in Clark County, WA

Photo of Complete Counseling, LPC, Counselor
Complete Counseling
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Battle Ground, WA 98604
The focus of Complete Counseling is to serve clients with a variety of mental health concerns. We are focused on finding the right fit for each one of our clients. Feel free to look through our variety of counselors with different specialties that will meet your need. Our primary focus is working with athletes and other high performers, but we also work with families, adults and clients that deal with medical issues or chronic pain. We want our clients to feel heard and gain the skills to make a change and re-enter their life with confidence.
The focus of Complete Counseling is to serve clients with a variety of mental health concerns. We are focused on finding the right fit for each one of our clients. Feel free to look through our variety of counselors with different specialties that will meet your need. Our primary focus is working with athletes and other high performers, but we also work with families, adults and clients that deal with medical issues or chronic pain. We want our clients to feel heard and gain the skills to make a change and re-enter their life with confidence.
(360) 646-2335 View (360) 646-2335
Photo of Dani Nierenberg, PhD, BCB, Psychologist
Dani Nierenberg
Psychologist, PhD, BCB
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98684
I work with those experiencing challenges including: Stress, Chronic Pain, Chronic illness, Sleep problems, and Mood Disorders.
I regret I do not have any openings at this time. When I am able to accept new patients, I work as a licensed psychologist and board certified biofeedback practitioner specializing in helping individuals gain greater stability and flexibility in their lives through the use of psychophysiological regulation skill building and technology. People with medical challenges, chronic pain, and difficult life circumstances will experience an integrative approach that addresses both mind and body and focuses on wellness, health, and quality of life. When appropriate, we may use evidence supported technology to help you reach your goals.
I work with those experiencing challenges including: Stress, Chronic Pain, Chronic illness, Sleep problems, and Mood Disorders.
I regret I do not have any openings at this time. When I am able to accept new patients, I work as a licensed psychologist and board certified biofeedback practitioner specializing in helping individuals gain greater stability and flexibility in their lives through the use of psychophysiological regulation skill building and technology. People with medical challenges, chronic pain, and difficult life circumstances will experience an integrative approach that addresses both mind and body and focuses on wellness, health, and quality of life. When appropriate, we may use evidence supported technology to help you reach your goals.
Photo of Dr. Peter H. Addy, PhD, LMHC, LPC
Dr. Peter H. Addy
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98660
I specialize in guiding psychedelic-curious individuals with chronic health issues to prepare with confidence and courage. My ideal client is someone who has been struggling with chronic health issues, like fibromyalgia, and is looking for a transformative experience to help them heal. They may feel overwhelmed by information about psychedelics and are unsure about the process, or may have lost hope after failed treatments.
I specialize in guiding psychedelic-curious individuals with chronic health issues to prepare with confidence and courage. My ideal client is someone who has been struggling with chronic health issues, like fibromyalgia, and is looking for a transformative experience to help them heal. They may feel overwhelmed by information about psychedelics and are unsure about the process, or may have lost hope after failed treatments.
(503) 773-6573 View (503) 773-6573
Photo of Daniella Bosman, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Daniella Bosman
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
Welcome! I provide counseling for anyone 18+. I create an empathetic, supportive, and judgment-free space for those looking to process the stressors of life. I work with clients on a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, burnout, and more. I have interest in working with survivors of trauma and abuse, those suffering from chronic pain or chronic illness, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those seeking inner child healing. As someone who has experienced many of these personally, I know the emotional weight they can carry.
Welcome! I provide counseling for anyone 18+. I create an empathetic, supportive, and judgment-free space for those looking to process the stressors of life. I work with clients on a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, burnout, and more. I have interest in working with survivors of trauma and abuse, those suffering from chronic pain or chronic illness, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those seeking inner child healing. As someone who has experienced many of these personally, I know the emotional weight they can carry.
(425) 475-1908 View (425) 475-1908
Photo of Jennifer Navarro, MA, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Navarro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
Waitlist for new clients
The human condition is stressful for everyone right now. Healthcare providers, LGBTQ2SIA + and those with chronic pain/medical illness are feeling it more than ever. Depression, anxiety and trauma responses can be overlooked/minimized. What you are experiencing is real and you deserve the time, space and support to explore this. Are your thoughts, feelings and behaviors getting in the way of your relationships/work/goals/well-being? Are you taking better care of others than you are of yourself? Is it time to move beyond surviving and begin thriving? If so, perhaps it's time to reach out for a helping hand. All are welcome here.
The human condition is stressful for everyone right now. Healthcare providers, LGBTQ2SIA + and those with chronic pain/medical illness are feeling it more than ever. Depression, anxiety and trauma responses can be overlooked/minimized. What you are experiencing is real and you deserve the time, space and support to explore this. Are your thoughts, feelings and behaviors getting in the way of your relationships/work/goals/well-being? Are you taking better care of others than you are of yourself? Is it time to move beyond surviving and begin thriving? If so, perhaps it's time to reach out for a helping hand. All are welcome here.
(503) 868-2273 View (503) 868-2273
Photo of Jodi J Palensky, PhD, Psychologist
Jodi J Palensky
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98664  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
If you, your loved one, or your family is struggling to cope with and recover from significant life changes following an injury or illness, you are not alone.
Licensed in multiple states including Oregon, Nebraska, Alaska, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, Colorado, Michigan, Washington, Arizona, and Montana. I offer online psychology and counseling teletherapy services designed to connect your recovery plan to your home environment and help you heal, grow and re-engage with your life following a catastrophic injury. I am happy to work with you individually, but also work with a team of allied health professionals to help with complex neurological, limb loss, and orthopedic injuries with a full suite of outpatient telerehabilitation services.
If you, your loved one, or your family is struggling to cope with and recover from significant life changes following an injury or illness, you are not alone.
Licensed in multiple states including Oregon, Nebraska, Alaska, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, Colorado, Michigan, Washington, Arizona, and Montana. I offer online psychology and counseling teletherapy services designed to connect your recovery plan to your home environment and help you heal, grow and re-engage with your life following a catastrophic injury. I am happy to work with you individually, but also work with a team of allied health professionals to help with complex neurological, limb loss, and orthopedic injuries with a full suite of outpatient telerehabilitation services.
(531) 201-5298 View (531) 201-5298
Photo of Joanna Cullins, PsyD, Psychologist
Joanna Cullins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
So many of us have struggles in our lives and we have all felt lost and alone at times. I see my work as a collaborative effort between myself and my clients to improve the quality of their lives and to help them to achieve their goals in a supportive, nurturing environment. I strive always to provide excellent, comprehensive services including formal assessments, individual and family therapy, group therapy, consultation, and psychoeducation. I have worked successfully with children, adolescents and adults with trauma, pain, chronic illness, grief, mood disorders, anxiety, chronic mental illness, stress, depression, and behavioral problems.
So many of us have struggles in our lives and we have all felt lost and alone at times. I see my work as a collaborative effort between myself and my clients to improve the quality of their lives and to help them to achieve their goals in a supportive, nurturing environment. I strive always to provide excellent, comprehensive services including formal assessments, individual and family therapy, group therapy, consultation, and psychoeducation. I have worked successfully with children, adolescents and adults with trauma, pain, chronic illness, grief, mood disorders, anxiety, chronic mental illness, stress, depression, and behavioral problems.
(360) 328-7950 View (360) 328-7950
Photo of Sabra P. Larsen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sabra P. Larsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
I teach mindful meditation and instruct in ways it may help reduce stress, anxiety and chronic-pain.
Life's challenges may overwhelm your ability to cope and leave you confused and distressed. As a skilled therapist, I can assist to make this time fruitful rather then just a time to get through. I provide a safe comfortable place to focus on your experience of life. You will receive kindness, respect and genuine caring. My approach is client directed,with compassionate inquiry and creative exploration, using collaborative problem-solving to assist you in restoring your balance and moving in a positive direction; often with deeper insight and a greater capacity for joy and contentment.
I teach mindful meditation and instruct in ways it may help reduce stress, anxiety and chronic-pain.
Life's challenges may overwhelm your ability to cope and leave you confused and distressed. As a skilled therapist, I can assist to make this time fruitful rather then just a time to get through. I provide a safe comfortable place to focus on your experience of life. You will receive kindness, respect and genuine caring. My approach is client directed,with compassionate inquiry and creative exploration, using collaborative problem-solving to assist you in restoring your balance and moving in a positive direction; often with deeper insight and a greater capacity for joy and contentment.
(360) 525-9073 View (360) 525-9073
Photo of Josh Dyer, PsyD, Psychologist
Josh Dyer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98686  (Online Only)
Dr. Dyer is a clinical psychologist who earned his PhD from Purdue University. He completed an internship in Primary Care Psychology at the University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine and a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Washington School of Medicine. He served on the faculty at UW in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine for 7 years prior to moving to Southwest Washington. He then worked in two large family medicine clinics in Vancouver before joining LifeStance. Dr. Dyer has extensive experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, pain, and multiple health conditions.
Dr. Dyer is a clinical psychologist who earned his PhD from Purdue University. He completed an internship in Primary Care Psychology at the University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine and a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Washington School of Medicine. He served on the faculty at UW in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine for 7 years prior to moving to Southwest Washington. He then worked in two large family medicine clinics in Vancouver before joining LifeStance. Dr. Dyer has extensive experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, pain, and multiple health conditions.
(360) 284-2866 View (360) 284-2866
Photo of Breanna Jeffries, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Breanna Jeffries
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
You will start to notice a greater sense of connection, empowerment, and safety as you unravel the meaning behind the trauma and pain.
Would you like to experience life differently than you do now? Have you ever thought, “I’m not enough,” or “There’s something wrong with me." Perhaps you have suffered stressful or overwhelming experiences that are impacting you today. Maybe you've dealt with significant trauma. Often, these occurrences leave their mark in how we view the world around us and how we feel about who we are. Big and painful emotions can become mainstays in our day to day life. It doesn't have to be that way. As an EMDR therapist and Approved Consultant, I can help.
You will start to notice a greater sense of connection, empowerment, and safety as you unravel the meaning behind the trauma and pain.
Would you like to experience life differently than you do now? Have you ever thought, “I’m not enough,” or “There’s something wrong with me." Perhaps you have suffered stressful or overwhelming experiences that are impacting you today. Maybe you've dealt with significant trauma. Often, these occurrences leave their mark in how we view the world around us and how we feel about who we are. Big and painful emotions can become mainstays in our day to day life. It doesn't have to be that way. As an EMDR therapist and Approved Consultant, I can help.
(503) 928-6510 View (503) 928-6510
Photo of Jocelyn Tello, PsyD, Psychologist
Jocelyn Tello
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660  (Online Only)
The majority of individuals that I work with struggle with anxiety and mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, interpersonal dysfunction, chronic pain, and life transitions.
I have 30 years of experience in the social service and mental health field. I have worked within schools, hospitals, prisons, and community mental health agencies in California, Oregon, and Washington. People describe me as calm, empathic, and balanced. I believe in the potential of those I see. People can manage and sometimes overcome debilitating mental health conditions. I rely on client collaboration and feedback to stretch a person beyond the distortions that render one paralyzed. Be ready to stretch and discover that you can too!
The majority of individuals that I work with struggle with anxiety and mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, interpersonal dysfunction, chronic pain, and life transitions.
I have 30 years of experience in the social service and mental health field. I have worked within schools, hospitals, prisons, and community mental health agencies in California, Oregon, and Washington. People describe me as calm, empathic, and balanced. I believe in the potential of those I see. People can manage and sometimes overcome debilitating mental health conditions. I rely on client collaboration and feedback to stretch a person beyond the distortions that render one paralyzed. Be ready to stretch and discover that you can too!
(360) 228-3488 View (360) 228-3488
Photo of Laura Anne Farley, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Anne Farley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
I have more than thirty-five years of experience serving older adults, people with disabilities, and people living with chronic physical and mental illness.
My caseload is full and I will update my profile when openings are available. Contact my office if you would like to be on my waitlist. People are resilient and capable of change to improve the quality of their lives. Whether desiring to get unstuck from a pattern of behavior (e.g., ineffective communication or substance use); struggling with anxiety, fear, depression, or trauma symptoms; or facing a difficult loss or transition, people often feel alone in their suffering and desire for change. These are human experiences. You are not alone. Together we will partner to identify and treat the crux of the problem.
I have more than thirty-five years of experience serving older adults, people with disabilities, and people living with chronic physical and mental illness.
My caseload is full and I will update my profile when openings are available. Contact my office if you would like to be on my waitlist. People are resilient and capable of change to improve the quality of their lives. Whether desiring to get unstuck from a pattern of behavior (e.g., ineffective communication or substance use); struggling with anxiety, fear, depression, or trauma symptoms; or facing a difficult loss or transition, people often feel alone in their suffering and desire for change. These are human experiences. You are not alone. Together we will partner to identify and treat the crux of the problem.
(844) 397-6361 View (844) 397-6361
Photo of Maria N Bloomfield, MA, LMHC, CPA
Maria N Bloomfield
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, CPA
Verified Verified
Camas, WA 98607  (Online Only)
Life often requires multi-tasking and keeping up with the fast pace. For many of us, it is hard to stop and find the time to attend to the soul. Inevitably, the soul demands attention, and periods of confusion, crisis, illness, or life transition can transform into opportunities for depth work. Anger, stress, illness, anxiety, and depression do not exist in a vacuum and involve a complex interplay of personal, familial, and cultural dynamics.
Life often requires multi-tasking and keeping up with the fast pace. For many of us, it is hard to stop and find the time to attend to the soul. Inevitably, the soul demands attention, and periods of confusion, crisis, illness, or life transition can transform into opportunities for depth work. Anger, stress, illness, anxiety, and depression do not exist in a vacuum and involve a complex interplay of personal, familial, and cultural dynamics.
(360) 218-3283 View (360) 218-3283
Photo of Dr. David Ross, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. David Ross
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
Often I support my clients suffering with medical problems involving chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.
Hello, I am a Clinical Psychologist specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I also support clients with a variety of health related issues including pain, anxiety, and depression. Clients often express the invaluable support they have received from having a knowledgeable professional walk with them through their life and/or medical journey. I use psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies to help you overcome the anxiety, depression, and anger that negatively impact your life, work, and relationships. I would be honored to join you in working to develop the life you desire to be living right now.
Often I support my clients suffering with medical problems involving chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.
Hello, I am a Clinical Psychologist specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I also support clients with a variety of health related issues including pain, anxiety, and depression. Clients often express the invaluable support they have received from having a knowledgeable professional walk with them through their life and/or medical journey. I use psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies to help you overcome the anxiety, depression, and anger that negatively impact your life, work, and relationships. I would be honored to join you in working to develop the life you desire to be living right now.
(360) 226-8227 View (360) 226-8227
Photo of Cheryl L Wilson, MA, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Cheryl L Wilson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with clients who have experienced grief and loss around relationships, illness and life transitions. As someone who has experienced my own grief and loss I understand that each person needs space, empathy and support from others. I honor your experience and will partner with you on your journey toward healing. I believe that from loss can come renewed strength and hope. You are supported in a safe and nonjudgmental space with me. Through pain can come great clarity around your priorities, goals and what is most important to you. You will discover how you have survived and can thrive moving forward.
I am passionate about working with clients who have experienced grief and loss around relationships, illness and life transitions. As someone who has experienced my own grief and loss I understand that each person needs space, empathy and support from others. I honor your experience and will partner with you on your journey toward healing. I believe that from loss can come renewed strength and hope. You are supported in a safe and nonjudgmental space with me. Through pain can come great clarity around your priorities, goals and what is most important to you. You will discover how you have survived and can thrive moving forward.
(360) 300-4911 View (360) 300-4911
Photo of Samantha Adams, BS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha Adams
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98685  (Online Only)
Now accepting new video therapy clients! I enjoy working with clients on a variety of issues including grief and loss, chronic illness and disability, trauma processing, life transitions, body image, family of origin concerns and generalized anxiety. I place great importance on providing a non-judgmental and safe space where clients can feel seen, cared for, respected, and encouraged to grow in their self-discovery and self-acceptance. My style is warm, compassionate, embodied, and collaborative. I am a graduate student counselor who is passionate about body liberation, anti-racism, and LGBTQIA affirming care.
Now accepting new video therapy clients! I enjoy working with clients on a variety of issues including grief and loss, chronic illness and disability, trauma processing, life transitions, body image, family of origin concerns and generalized anxiety. I place great importance on providing a non-judgmental and safe space where clients can feel seen, cared for, respected, and encouraged to grow in their self-discovery and self-acceptance. My style is warm, compassionate, embodied, and collaborative. I am a graduate student counselor who is passionate about body liberation, anti-racism, and LGBTQIA affirming care.
(360) 309-0568 View (360) 309-0568
Photo of Katherine Anne Latter, MA, LMHC, LPC, LIMHP, Counselor
Katherine Anne Latter
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, LIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684  (Online Only)
I counsel those who have been abused, suffered trauma, chronic pain, illnesses, relationship issues, boundaries, low self-esteem, anger, depression, and anxiety.
Allow yourself to experience changes through the seasons of life! As a counselor, it is my delight to come alongside clients and encourage them to transition through life's challenges. I believe that people can transform, weather the storms of life, and gain tools and insights to help them do so. I provide a safe environment, filled with compassion and empathy, in which clients can share their hearts, their fears, their dreams, and their stories.
I counsel those who have been abused, suffered trauma, chronic pain, illnesses, relationship issues, boundaries, low self-esteem, anger, depression, and anxiety.
Allow yourself to experience changes through the seasons of life! As a counselor, it is my delight to come alongside clients and encourage them to transition through life's challenges. I believe that people can transform, weather the storms of life, and gain tools and insights to help them do so. I provide a safe environment, filled with compassion and empathy, in which clients can share their hearts, their fears, their dreams, and their stories.
(360) 383-5631 View (360) 383-5631
Photo of Nicole Parsons, MA, Counselor
Nicole Parsons
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98663
I am especially passionate about working with trauma, grief, and chronic pain.
I believe that something powerful happens when we are seen, heard, and equipped with dignity and support. Counseling is a transformative process that can promote healing, hope, and change as we navigate the challenges that come with being human. I approach therapy through a person-centered, narrative, and family-systems framework. This means that the therapeutic process is centered around your story, your context, and your intersecting identities. I also prioritize trauma-informed care and utilize EMDR to help clients move from feeling stuck in the past to safe and empowered in the present.
I am especially passionate about working with trauma, grief, and chronic pain.
I believe that something powerful happens when we are seen, heard, and equipped with dignity and support. Counseling is a transformative process that can promote healing, hope, and change as we navigate the challenges that come with being human. I approach therapy through a person-centered, narrative, and family-systems framework. This means that the therapeutic process is centered around your story, your context, and your intersecting identities. I also prioritize trauma-informed care and utilize EMDR to help clients move from feeling stuck in the past to safe and empowered in the present.
(360) 842-0669 View (360) 842-0669
Photo of Victoria Douglas Thoreson - Victoria Douglas Thoreson, PsyD, Psychologist
Victoria Douglas Thoreson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
Waitlist for new clients
You want prompt solutions to today's challenges. Whether you are facing changes in your personal or work life, are dealing with trauma, illness, grief, depression or anxiety, you want support to identify and implement successful strategies to get back on line as soon as possible. I have an active approach and promote between-session homework and bibliotherapy to integrate the gains you are making. I aggressively seek continuing education for myself in support of your current issues and special concerns. My office reflects a sense of warmth comfort and security in order to create a reassuring environment.
You want prompt solutions to today's challenges. Whether you are facing changes in your personal or work life, are dealing with trauma, illness, grief, depression or anxiety, you want support to identify and implement successful strategies to get back on line as soon as possible. I have an active approach and promote between-session homework and bibliotherapy to integrate the gains you are making. I aggressively seek continuing education for myself in support of your current issues and special concerns. My office reflects a sense of warmth comfort and security in order to create a reassuring environment.
(971) 236-5142 View (971) 236-5142
Photo of Finn Indigo Mar, MA, LMHCA, ATR-P, Counselor
Finn Indigo Mar
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98661  (Online Only)
Creating art can serve as a direct bridge for one to gain self-insight, unpack complex trauma, and process pain into healing.
I am a Relational Art Therapist. I graduated from Antioch University - Seattle in 2020 and I have been in private practice since then. I have been working with older teens and adults who have mental and physical disabilities for over 13 years. I focus on empowering clients through a strength-based approach and existential theory. I specialize in working with transgender and non-binary individuals as well as the wider LGBTQIA+ community. I have experience working with adolescents and adults who identify as neuro-divergent (including ADHD) and/or on the Autism spectrum. I am a poly-friendly, body positive, and BDSM/kink knowledgeable.
Creating art can serve as a direct bridge for one to gain self-insight, unpack complex trauma, and process pain into healing.
I am a Relational Art Therapist. I graduated from Antioch University - Seattle in 2020 and I have been in private practice since then. I have been working with older teens and adults who have mental and physical disabilities for over 13 years. I focus on empowering clients through a strength-based approach and existential theory. I specialize in working with transgender and non-binary individuals as well as the wider LGBTQIA+ community. I have experience working with adolescents and adults who identify as neuro-divergent (including ADHD) and/or on the Autism spectrum. I am a poly-friendly, body positive, and BDSM/kink knowledgeable.
(206) 279-4609 View (206) 279-4609
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See more therapy options for Clark County

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.