Chronic Pain Psychiatrists in Arizona

Photo of Shweta Kapoor (Kalm Psychiatry Llc), Psychiatrist in Arizona
Shweta Kapoor (Kalm Psychiatry Llc)
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85259  (Online Only)
I have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, personality disorders, suicidality, complex trauma , chronic pain, cancer-related distress, end-of-life issues, women's mental health (perinatal period, pregnancy, menopause), attachment trauma.
I believe in addressing human suffering and treating the human behind the diagnostic labels. I am one of the few clinicians in the US with dual training as a psychiatrist and clinical psychologist with extensive training and work experience at Emory, Baylor, Menninger Clinic, and Mayo Clinic. I focus on understanding my patients' struggles beyond diagnostic labels. I identify as a trauma-informed therapist. I understand how traumatic experiences deeply impact one's psyche and the disruptive effect these have on one's life trajectory . Understanding life stories and trauma responses lead to much more fulfilling and meaningful lives.
I have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, personality disorders, suicidality, complex trauma , chronic pain, cancer-related distress, end-of-life issues, women's mental health (perinatal period, pregnancy, menopause), attachment trauma.
I believe in addressing human suffering and treating the human behind the diagnostic labels. I am one of the few clinicians in the US with dual training as a psychiatrist and clinical psychologist with extensive training and work experience at Emory, Baylor, Menninger Clinic, and Mayo Clinic. I focus on understanding my patients' struggles beyond diagnostic labels. I identify as a trauma-informed therapist. I understand how traumatic experiences deeply impact one's psyche and the disruptive effect these have on one's life trajectory . Understanding life stories and trauma responses lead to much more fulfilling and meaningful lives.
(480) 725-7352 View (480) 725-7352
Photo of Donald Mason, Physician Assistant in Arizona
Donald Mason
Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85204
Accepting New Patients. I have over 15 years of experience working with patients who suffer from mental health conditions. I'm looking for patients who prefer more personalized treatment and have a desire for growth and improvement. Whether your suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, OCD, insomnia, PTSD, personality disorder, addiction, grief, chronic pain, or just want to find a happier and healthier you then I believe you would benefit from making an appointment to discuss treatment options. I look forward to working with you to achieve your mental health goals.
Accepting New Patients. I have over 15 years of experience working with patients who suffer from mental health conditions. I'm looking for patients who prefer more personalized treatment and have a desire for growth and improvement. Whether your suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, OCD, insomnia, PTSD, personality disorder, addiction, grief, chronic pain, or just want to find a happier and healthier you then I believe you would benefit from making an appointment to discuss treatment options. I look forward to working with you to achieve your mental health goals.
(928) 260-4130 View (928) 260-4130
Photo of Eric Hegybeli, Psychiatrist in Arizona
Eric Hegybeli
Psychiatrist, DO, FACN, FACOP
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85392
I bring an extra dimension to a person's mental health care through my unique skills; I can understand and treat somatic pain and mental health symptoms that may not make sense to other doctors, to decrease pain and dependence on medication.
D.O.’s (doctors of osteopathic medicine) are physicians who practice medicine according to a wholistic philosophy. Because of that philosophy I am able to provide more than just routine psychiatric care. I like spending time with my patients and listening to them because I am interested in them as individuals. I trained as a pediatrician as well as a child psychiatrist, so I know child development well and am expert in diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorders in children and young adults. I have 7 years of experience treating inpatient Eating Disorders and Anxiety Disorders. I treat pain using non-surgical methods, without medication.
I bring an extra dimension to a person's mental health care through my unique skills; I can understand and treat somatic pain and mental health symptoms that may not make sense to other doctors, to decrease pain and dependence on medication.
D.O.’s (doctors of osteopathic medicine) are physicians who practice medicine according to a wholistic philosophy. Because of that philosophy I am able to provide more than just routine psychiatric care. I like spending time with my patients and listening to them because I am interested in them as individuals. I trained as a pediatrician as well as a child psychiatrist, so I know child development well and am expert in diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorders in children and young adults. I have 7 years of experience treating inpatient Eating Disorders and Anxiety Disorders. I treat pain using non-surgical methods, without medication.
(623) 253-8069 View (623) 253-8069
Photo of Daily Hope Healthcare Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Arizona
Daily Hope Healthcare Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85719
These things contribute to mental illness and suffering.
****ACCEPTING NEW PATIENT, APPOINTMENTS WITHIN 7 DAYS, WE OFFER TELEPSYCH**** Our behavioral health and support groups are led by mental health professionals. We offer compassionate behavioral health services for people aged 18 and above. We utilize a whole-person, holistic approach to providing mental health care. We provide judgment-free, high-quality health care for the mentally and emotionally challenged. We are a safe place for individuals who seek professional support and assistance.
These things contribute to mental illness and suffering.
****ACCEPTING NEW PATIENT, APPOINTMENTS WITHIN 7 DAYS, WE OFFER TELEPSYCH**** Our behavioral health and support groups are led by mental health professionals. We offer compassionate behavioral health services for people aged 18 and above. We utilize a whole-person, holistic approach to providing mental health care. We provide judgment-free, high-quality health care for the mentally and emotionally challenged. We are a safe place for individuals who seek professional support and assistance.
(520) 231-7844 View (520) 231-7844
Photo of Janet Melvin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Arizona
Janet Melvin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, MSNED
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
I am board-certified with Arizona as an Advanced Practice Nurse with specializations in Psychiatry and Family Practice. She has over 15 years of experience in the field of nursing, including the most recent 8 years in advanced practice. A former nursing professor and educator, I have experience that spans across multiple clinical settings including skilled nursing facilities/long-term care, serious mental illness clinic, and private practice. My primary focus is to help bring healing to your mind, body, and spirit by helping you restore emotional, mental, and physical balance to your life.
I am board-certified with Arizona as an Advanced Practice Nurse with specializations in Psychiatry and Family Practice. She has over 15 years of experience in the field of nursing, including the most recent 8 years in advanced practice. A former nursing professor and educator, I have experience that spans across multiple clinical settings including skilled nursing facilities/long-term care, serious mental illness clinic, and private practice. My primary focus is to help bring healing to your mind, body, and spirit by helping you restore emotional, mental, and physical balance to your life.
(602) 671-0273 View (602) 671-0273
Photo of Dr. Chanon C. Biceglia, DNP of Medica Today LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Arizona
Dr. Chanon C. Biceglia, DNP of Medica Today LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, NP-C
Verified Verified
Oro Valley, AZ 85704
My passion lies in treating the whole person from a holistic perspective with a functional approach related to trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, fatigue, identity disorders, addictive behaviors, identity confusion, life transition.
With a strong passion for helping others succeed & work through obstacles in their life, I serve as both a psychiatric and medical provider, with a comprehensive education & experience of 25+ years. Holding a doctorate and double board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner & medical APRN, I hold full prescriptive authority to serve the needs of clients in Arizona & Connecticut. My background & experience includes trauma & crisis, primary care, inpatient hospital, out-patient, family/couples, school based intervention, ADD/ADHD, & ASD health and wellness.
My passion lies in treating the whole person from a holistic perspective with a functional approach related to trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, fatigue, identity disorders, addictive behaviors, identity confusion, life transition.
With a strong passion for helping others succeed & work through obstacles in their life, I serve as both a psychiatric and medical provider, with a comprehensive education & experience of 25+ years. Holding a doctorate and double board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner & medical APRN, I hold full prescriptive authority to serve the needs of clients in Arizona & Connecticut. My background & experience includes trauma & crisis, primary care, inpatient hospital, out-patient, family/couples, school based intervention, ADD/ADHD, & ASD health and wellness.
(520) 201-2456 View (520) 201-2456
Photo of Nikka Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Arizona
Nikka Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN-BC, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004  (Online Only)
My clients usually have a mutual respect and understanding that I'm here to support their needs, goals, and values. My practice is based on a holistic approach, looking at a person as a whole, NOT just the illness. My background is emergency care, substance treatment, blended families so I'm super understanding, private, and friendly. I'm also one of the few providers that offers genetic testing that can help reduce medication side-effects. I have a medical background, so your care is truly a well-rounded comfortable experience that's tailored to your particular needs.
My clients usually have a mutual respect and understanding that I'm here to support their needs, goals, and values. My practice is based on a holistic approach, looking at a person as a whole, NOT just the illness. My background is emergency care, substance treatment, blended families so I'm super understanding, private, and friendly. I'm also one of the few providers that offers genetic testing that can help reduce medication side-effects. I have a medical background, so your care is truly a well-rounded comfortable experience that's tailored to your particular needs.
(646) 453-6777 View (646) 453-6777
Photo of New Wave Health and Wellness, Psychiatrist in Arizona
New Wave Health and Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
At New Wave we believe mental health has been declining in the U.S. over the past few years and is nearing an all-time low. Whether you have minor struggles or a psychiatric illness we can evaluate and customize treatment based on the most up to date science. Because no two people are the same, we pride ourselves in using innovative methods and technology to provide a unique experience for our patient. We are a full spectrum Psychiatric, Addiction Medicine, and Ketamine infusion practice with medication treatment, psychotherapy, addiction therapy and counseling with sensitivity and a niche for treating professionals.
At New Wave we believe mental health has been declining in the U.S. over the past few years and is nearing an all-time low. Whether you have minor struggles or a psychiatric illness we can evaluate and customize treatment based on the most up to date science. Because no two people are the same, we pride ourselves in using innovative methods and technology to provide a unique experience for our patient. We are a full spectrum Psychiatric, Addiction Medicine, and Ketamine infusion practice with medication treatment, psychotherapy, addiction therapy and counseling with sensitivity and a niche for treating professionals.
(480) 424-4962 View (480) 424-4962
Photo of Care Clinic, Psychiatrist in Arizona
Care Clinic
Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
(520) 231-8397 View (520) 231-8397
Photo of Whole Health Integrative Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Arizona
Whole Health Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85286  (Online Only)
I specialize in offering integrative psychiatric care for adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, and trauma/PTSD who are seeking a holistic and collaborative approach. I am passionate about providing trauma-informed care, and I take a nuanced approach to combining the best of conventional medicine and holistic healing into an integrated plan that’s as unique as you are. I believe in taking the time to get to know you beyond your symptoms, and I look at the entirety of your being and your whole health in devising a comprehensive treatment plan. I utilize a variety of mind-body tools and functional medicine principles.
I specialize in offering integrative psychiatric care for adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, and trauma/PTSD who are seeking a holistic and collaborative approach. I am passionate about providing trauma-informed care, and I take a nuanced approach to combining the best of conventional medicine and holistic healing into an integrated plan that’s as unique as you are. I believe in taking the time to get to know you beyond your symptoms, and I look at the entirety of your being and your whole health in devising a comprehensive treatment plan. I utilize a variety of mind-body tools and functional medicine principles.
(480) 300-4354 View (480) 300-4354
Photo of Mentally STRONG by Sharon Lynn Sawyer PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Arizona
Mentally STRONG by Sharon Lynn Sawyer PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
Online and in person appointments available. I provide diagnosis and medication management for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, attention deficit disorder, PTSD, OCD, and more. I offer extended hours and weekend hours to accommodate varying schedules. I am dual certified psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I am also a veteran and understand the unique needs of this population. I am also an Ericksonian trained hypnotherapist. I treat individuals age 5 to adults
Online and in person appointments available. I provide diagnosis and medication management for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, attention deficit disorder, PTSD, OCD, and more. I offer extended hours and weekend hours to accommodate varying schedules. I am dual certified psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I am also a veteran and understand the unique needs of this population. I am also an Ericksonian trained hypnotherapist. I treat individuals age 5 to adults
(480) 386-6298 View (480) 386-6298
Photo of Adel Mostafavi, Psychiatrist in Arizona
Adel Mostafavi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
(844) 981-0578 View (844) 981-0578
Photo of Victory Health Solution LLC (Virtual Appts ONLY), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Arizona
Victory Health Solution LLC (Virtual Appts ONLY)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC, CNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255  (Online Only)
Attention:Same day prescriptions. we offer only telepsychiatry services. Afraid of over dose call me for Naloxone Now ! Addiction,Opiod use, CALL for your Naltrexone now. No more addiction. Your local pharmacy may be able to give you Vivitrol. TRIWEST/ TRICARE welcome. Please note we do not offer in-person services at this time. We treat opioid, addiction, schizophrenia, bipolar, anxiety, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, cleptomaniac, ADHD and depression. We treat all other mental health disorders. Please click on our website link to make your appointment. We accept cash at $90 / Month if you do not have insurance.
Attention:Same day prescriptions. we offer only telepsychiatry services. Afraid of over dose call me for Naloxone Now ! Addiction,Opiod use, CALL for your Naltrexone now. No more addiction. Your local pharmacy may be able to give you Vivitrol. TRIWEST/ TRICARE welcome. Please note we do not offer in-person services at this time. We treat opioid, addiction, schizophrenia, bipolar, anxiety, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, cleptomaniac, ADHD and depression. We treat all other mental health disorders. Please click on our website link to make your appointment. We accept cash at $90 / Month if you do not have insurance.
(623) 304-6079 View (623) 304-6079
Photo of Bethel Hills Integrated Healthcare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Arizona
Bethel Hills Integrated Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, MSN/Ed
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044  (Online Only)
We provide psychiatric care, medication management, we have weekend and evening appointments. We also provide primary care and work with other specialties. We specialized in treating different mood disorders including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, and other behavioral disorders like Schizophrenia, personality disorder, substance abuse, ADHD, Autism, treatment-resistant depression, among others. We also provide Medically supervised weight loss management
We provide psychiatric care, medication management, we have weekend and evening appointments. We also provide primary care and work with other specialties. We specialized in treating different mood disorders including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, and other behavioral disorders like Schizophrenia, personality disorder, substance abuse, ADHD, Autism, treatment-resistant depression, among others. We also provide Medically supervised weight loss management
(602) 560-4576 View (602) 560-4576
Photo of Brightstar Health Solutions, LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Arizona
Brightstar Health Solutions, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
Welcome to Brightstar Health Solutions, LLC. We are Accepting new patients in person and via telehealth. Our provider Janine Dukuze, AGNP/PMHNP is a duo-certified Nurse Practitioner. She has over 10 years of NP experience. We treat adult patients suffering with various psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, psychosis, traumatic life experiences, interpersonal relationship, substance abuse addiction. We provide psychotherapy for individuals/families, as well as medication management.
Welcome to Brightstar Health Solutions, LLC. We are Accepting new patients in person and via telehealth. Our provider Janine Dukuze, AGNP/PMHNP is a duo-certified Nurse Practitioner. She has over 10 years of NP experience. We treat adult patients suffering with various psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, psychosis, traumatic life experiences, interpersonal relationship, substance abuse addiction. We provide psychotherapy for individuals/families, as well as medication management.
(480) 933-4888 View (480) 933-4888
Photo of Rachel Wybron, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Arizona
Rachel Wybron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85295
Is life stressful? Does it feel harder than it used to? This is especially true if you have health issues, a history of trauma, work in healthcare or are a first responder, or have many responsibilities in life (hi moms!). Whatever you may be struggling with, you are welcome here. My approach is respectful, warm, and compassionate, with a focus on stress reduction and skill building so you can rediscover and restore your hope and your future in life. Together we’ll identify root causes for the burdens you're carrying and create a personalized plan for your mental health based on your unique needs and the latest treatment options.
Is life stressful? Does it feel harder than it used to? This is especially true if you have health issues, a history of trauma, work in healthcare or are a first responder, or have many responsibilities in life (hi moms!). Whatever you may be struggling with, you are welcome here. My approach is respectful, warm, and compassionate, with a focus on stress reduction and skill building so you can rediscover and restore your hope and your future in life. Together we’ll identify root causes for the burdens you're carrying and create a personalized plan for your mental health based on your unique needs and the latest treatment options.
(480) 530-5314 View (480) 530-5314
Willow Spring Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85716  (Online Only)
Willow Spring Behavioral Health is committed to providing holistic and compassionate care to our members of our community ages 5 and up. The mission is create a collaborative relationship and an individualized approach with every person seeking treatment. The goal is empower patients with knowledge and inspire a sense of hope.
Willow Spring Behavioral Health is committed to providing holistic and compassionate care to our members of our community ages 5 and up. The mission is create a collaborative relationship and an individualized approach with every person seeking treatment. The goal is empower patients with knowledge and inspire a sense of hope.
(520) 263-1051 View (520) 263-1051
Photo of Milagro Behavioral Health-Dr. Shannon Padilla, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Arizona
Milagro Behavioral Health-Dr. Shannon Padilla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85719
No waiting list for appointments! Offering In Person Appointments! Telemedicine visits available for services throughout the state of Arizona! Call 602-460-8416. Dr. Shannon Padilla, DNP, PMHNP, is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing adult psychiatric services. She has 25 years experience working in the mental health setting with teens and adults across their life span. Dr. Padilla specializes in diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, behavioral and addiction disorders. She has strong skills in psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, behavioral and addiction disorders.
No waiting list for appointments! Offering In Person Appointments! Telemedicine visits available for services throughout the state of Arizona! Call 602-460-8416. Dr. Shannon Padilla, DNP, PMHNP, is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing adult psychiatric services. She has 25 years experience working in the mental health setting with teens and adults across their life span. Dr. Padilla specializes in diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, behavioral and addiction disorders. She has strong skills in psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, behavioral and addiction disorders.
(520) 462-6018 View (520) 462-6018
Photo of Laura Ross, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Arizona
Laura Ross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85378
Telemed and in-person appointments are available. I am a board-certified Family Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating patients over lifespan, child, adolescent/teen, and adult. My treatment approach is evidence based and collaborative. I like to meet you where you are. Each person has their own unique needs and background and, that is where I start. By using medications and non-med options, my patients have a variety of treatment modalities to choose from. I am here to help guide you back to “the real you”.
Telemed and in-person appointments are available. I am a board-certified Family Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating patients over lifespan, child, adolescent/teen, and adult. My treatment approach is evidence based and collaborative. I like to meet you where you are. Each person has their own unique needs and background and, that is where I start. By using medications and non-med options, my patients have a variety of treatment modalities to choose from. I am here to help guide you back to “the real you”.
(480) 923-4778 View (480) 923-4778
Photo of Cathy S Bradway, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Arizona
Cathy S Bradway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251  (Online Only)
Don't we all want life to be more fulfilling with less stress and fewer challenges? My practice utilizes many avenues to guide adult clients forward to a more centered and balanced life. The focus is on unraveling whatever you are struggling with so you can continue to progress and develop on every level, enjoying life to the fullest.
Don't we all want life to be more fulfilling with less stress and fewer challenges? My practice utilizes many avenues to guide adult clients forward to a more centered and balanced life. The focus is on unraveling whatever you are struggling with so you can continue to progress and develop on every level, enjoying life to the fullest.
(480) 771-6143 View (480) 771-6143
Chronic Pain Psychiatrists

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.