Chronic Pain Psychiatrists in Walnut Creek, CA

Photo of Beatrice Rabkin, Psychiatrist in Walnut Creek, CA
Beatrice Rabkin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94595
Passionate about the complex interplay between medical illness and mental health, I completed specialty fellowship training in consult-liaison psychiatry at Stanford University, with focus on psychosomatic medicine.
Thank you for visiting my profile! I am a board-certified general psychiatrist, working with a variety of patients in my outpatient practice. I have office locations in San Francisco and Palo Alto. While I specialize in medication management, I use a multimodal approach with clients that draws upon psychotherapy, mindfulness work, Yoga psychology, and other integrative practices. For more info about my holistic approach to treatment, here's an informative podcast highlighting my work: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/holistic-psychiatry-dr-beatrice-rabkin-md/id1501515784?i=1000502625263 or https://youtu.be/wJe3t3ZzkNs
Passionate about the complex interplay between medical illness and mental health, I completed specialty fellowship training in consult-liaison psychiatry at Stanford University, with focus on psychosomatic medicine.
Thank you for visiting my profile! I am a board-certified general psychiatrist, working with a variety of patients in my outpatient practice. I have office locations in San Francisco and Palo Alto. While I specialize in medication management, I use a multimodal approach with clients that draws upon psychotherapy, mindfulness work, Yoga psychology, and other integrative practices. For more info about my holistic approach to treatment, here's an informative podcast highlighting my work: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/holistic-psychiatry-dr-beatrice-rabkin-md/id1501515784?i=1000502625263 or https://youtu.be/wJe3t3ZzkNs
(650) 955-0435 View (650) 955-0435
Photo of Joseph Harrison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Walnut Creek, CA
Joseph Harrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP-C
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94598  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping persons who are experiencing lower-than-normal functioning because or new onset or chronic mental health needs. My patients enjoy partnering with me to understand how their physical health, their social world, their choices and their identity all create conditions in which they feel well or unwell. I delight in getting to know my patients and in collaborating with them to improve their wellness and to achieve their goals. Having a thought partner in a person who cares, is professionally trained, and enjoys their job can make a huge difference in one's quality of life and personal satisfaction.
I enjoy helping persons who are experiencing lower-than-normal functioning because or new onset or chronic mental health needs. My patients enjoy partnering with me to understand how their physical health, their social world, their choices and their identity all create conditions in which they feel well or unwell. I delight in getting to know my patients and in collaborating with them to improve their wellness and to achieve their goals. Having a thought partner in a person who cares, is professionally trained, and enjoys their job can make a huge difference in one's quality of life and personal satisfaction.
(925) 694-0983 View (925) 694-0983
Photo of Dorothy Moore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Walnut Creek, CA
Dorothy Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
I think it is important to tailor treatment plans to fit the individual. There is no one-sized solution in mental health care. Therapy is often a key part of that treatment plan and I encourage patients to seek therapy in addition to medication. I use a holistic approach to care, combined with evidence-based research. I provide medication management for ages 15 and older. I have a strong background in treating addiction, especially opioid use disorder and alcoholism.
I think it is important to tailor treatment plans to fit the individual. There is no one-sized solution in mental health care. Therapy is often a key part of that treatment plan and I encourage patients to seek therapy in addition to medication. I use a holistic approach to care, combined with evidence-based research. I provide medication management for ages 15 and older. I have a strong background in treating addiction, especially opioid use disorder and alcoholism.
(925) 267-6647 View (925) 267-6647
Photo of Aldrin Nieves, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Walnut Creek, CA
Aldrin Nieves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, AGNP, C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94595
Not accepting new clients
Aldrin’s main goals for his patients include empowering them to understand their mental illness through knowledge and allowing them to participate in treatment option selection.
Aldrin Nieves is a nurse practitioner from Concord, CA, who is dually board certified in psychiatric-mental health and adult gerontology primary care. He works with adults (18+ years old) and older adults (65+ years old) and provides care for patients who struggle with a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, psychosis, and other mood disorders. Aldrin’s treatment approach is rooted in integrating evidence-based techniques into medication management, psychoeducation, and supportive psychotherapy for treating mental illness.
Aldrin’s main goals for his patients include empowering them to understand their mental illness through knowledge and allowing them to participate in treatment option selection.
Aldrin Nieves is a nurse practitioner from Concord, CA, who is dually board certified in psychiatric-mental health and adult gerontology primary care. He works with adults (18+ years old) and older adults (65+ years old) and provides care for patients who struggle with a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, psychosis, and other mood disorders. Aldrin’s treatment approach is rooted in integrating evidence-based techniques into medication management, psychoeducation, and supportive psychotherapy for treating mental illness.
(925) 248-9056 View (925) 248-9056

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Daniel Smeester, Psychiatrist in Walnut Creek, CA
Daniel Smeester
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Ramon, CA 94583
We offer a medical model of treatment, evidence-based; and help with any chronic pain, especially back and neck pain and neuropathic pain is available with our addiction-free pain management program.
There IS immediate help for those who are battling substance use disorder. You do not need to wait in the emergency room for help with withdrawal symptoms, or to find help to stop using. We have an outpatient program that provides everything you need, including in-person group counseling and an outpatient detox center. Personalized care. We also have a Telehealth program for those who prefer this. If you are battling pain, our addiction-free pain management program provides expert spine and musculoskeletal care as well as care for neuropathic pain- all non-surgical procedures performed, and of course primarily non-opiate based.
We offer a medical model of treatment, evidence-based; and help with any chronic pain, especially back and neck pain and neuropathic pain is available with our addiction-free pain management program.
There IS immediate help for those who are battling substance use disorder. You do not need to wait in the emergency room for help with withdrawal symptoms, or to find help to stop using. We have an outpatient program that provides everything you need, including in-person group counseling and an outpatient detox center. Personalized care. We also have a Telehealth program for those who prefer this. If you are battling pain, our addiction-free pain management program provides expert spine and musculoskeletal care as well as care for neuropathic pain- all non-surgical procedures performed, and of course primarily non-opiate based.
(925) 267-6853 View (925) 267-6853
Photo of Adel Mostafavi, Psychiatrist in Walnut Creek, CA
Adel Mostafavi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Danville, CA 94526  (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 Medical Group 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 Medical Group 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.
(310) 856-9442 View (310) 856-9442

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Paul Abramson, Psychiatrist in Walnut Creek, CA
Paul Abramson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94108
We are available to help you figure out if we are the right treatment program for you, and have kind compassion for those suffering from any kind of illness.
Paul Abramson MD is board certified in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine (He is not a Psychiatrist). He specializes in the treatment of addiction, mental health and physical health utilizing his small and expert team - medical doctors and psychotherapists. Our methods are evidence based, outpatient and efficient. Dr. Abramson is a graduate of Stanford and UCSF and has specific expertise in the treatment of opioid addiction, alcohol use disorders, and benzodiazepine dependency (with Ashton-style slow tapers). My Doctor Medical Group is a top concierge medical practice in San Francisco.
We are available to help you figure out if we are the right treatment program for you, and have kind compassion for those suffering from any kind of illness.
Paul Abramson MD is board certified in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine (He is not a Psychiatrist). He specializes in the treatment of addiction, mental health and physical health utilizing his small and expert team - medical doctors and psychotherapists. Our methods are evidence based, outpatient and efficient. Dr. Abramson is a graduate of Stanford and UCSF and has specific expertise in the treatment of opioid addiction, alcohol use disorders, and benzodiazepine dependency (with Ashton-style slow tapers). My Doctor Medical Group is a top concierge medical practice in San Francisco.
(415) 483-1528 View (415) 483-1528
Photo of Juliet Morgan, Psychiatrist in Walnut Creek, CA
Juliet Morgan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a psychiatrist and neuropsychiatrist working with a variety of clients in-person and over tele-health. I specialize in the integrative treatment of patients with mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, neuropsychiatric illness, and healing from trauma. I am a board certified neurologist, and understand the complex interplay between the structural “hardware” and emotional “software” in the brain. I have been featured in several media outlets including KQED and CBS for my work with clients with COVID-19 patients. I also teach extensively on neuropsychiatry and neuroanatomy at UCSF.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a psychiatrist and neuropsychiatrist working with a variety of clients in-person and over tele-health. I specialize in the integrative treatment of patients with mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, neuropsychiatric illness, and healing from trauma. I am a board certified neurologist, and understand the complex interplay between the structural “hardware” and emotional “software” in the brain. I have been featured in several media outlets including KQED and CBS for my work with clients with COVID-19 patients. I also teach extensively on neuropsychiatry and neuroanatomy at UCSF.
(310) 935-0754 View (310) 935-0754
Photo of M Rameen Ghorieshi, Psychiatrist in Walnut Creek, CA
M Rameen Ghorieshi
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
I care for patients from the paradigm that mental and physical health are so strongly intertwined that one may not fully achieve either without striving for both. I treat both a vast range of psychiatric conditions and help those who wish to better understand themselves and their relationships. My areas of interest include anxiety, depression, whole body health, coping with medical illness, and addiction medicine. I will formulate a customized treatment plan, which may include psychotherapy, medications, and behavioral techniques, to best care for your condition and meet your needs.
I care for patients from the paradigm that mental and physical health are so strongly intertwined that one may not fully achieve either without striving for both. I treat both a vast range of psychiatric conditions and help those who wish to better understand themselves and their relationships. My areas of interest include anxiety, depression, whole body health, coping with medical illness, and addiction medicine. I will formulate a customized treatment plan, which may include psychotherapy, medications, and behavioral techniques, to best care for your condition and meet your needs.
(650) 204-3479 View (650) 204-3479
Photo of Hope Integrative Psychiatry, Psychiatrist in Walnut Creek, CA
Hope Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
If you would like to make an appointment or ask further questions you can also email us at admin@hopepsychiatry.com. Hope was founded to offer a more natural and complete way of helping people recover from mental illness. Blending together insights from the emerging sciences of Interpersonal Neurobiology and Evolutionary Psychology with more ancient practices that have evidence like Mindfulness,Breathwork and Yoga, we focus on shifting people’s consciousness from a disease model to one that empowers our innate capacity to heal and find meaning in our struggle towards wholeness and optimal health.
If you would like to make an appointment or ask further questions you can also email us at admin@hopepsychiatry.com. Hope was founded to offer a more natural and complete way of helping people recover from mental illness. Blending together insights from the emerging sciences of Interpersonal Neurobiology and Evolutionary Psychology with more ancient practices that have evidence like Mindfulness,Breathwork and Yoga, we focus on shifting people’s consciousness from a disease model to one that empowers our innate capacity to heal and find meaning in our struggle towards wholeness and optimal health.
(747) 205-1878 View (747) 205-1878
Photo of Greer Murphy, Psychiatrist in Walnut Creek, CA
Greer Murphy
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
I can help you with: Treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, compulsions, and trauma. Also, insomnia, chronic fatigue, inattention and lack of focus. Memory and other cognitive concerns, even when complicated by agitation. Overuse and dependence on habit-forming prescription and non-prescription substances. Workplace and family issues. Chronic pain and Long COVID mood, energy, and cognitive changes. Nonresponse to medication and psychotherapies given by other providers. I also have decades of experience treating severe mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder and psychosis in hospital, outpatient, and residential settings.
I can help you with: Treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, compulsions, and trauma. Also, insomnia, chronic fatigue, inattention and lack of focus. Memory and other cognitive concerns, even when complicated by agitation. Overuse and dependence on habit-forming prescription and non-prescription substances. Workplace and family issues. Chronic pain and Long COVID mood, energy, and cognitive changes. Nonresponse to medication and psychotherapies given by other providers. I also have decades of experience treating severe mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder and psychosis in hospital, outpatient, and residential settings.
(650) 629-0909 View (650) 629-0909
Photo of Bryan Hyler, Psychiatrist in Walnut Creek, CA
Bryan Hyler
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128
Unfortunately, illicit drugs, pain pill addiction, emotional, physical and sexual traumas are often the springboard for mental conditions that I treat.
My working philosophy is simple, the patient comes first. That said, my approach to medicine is personalized, cordial, with a collaborative relationship and a touch of professional know how. My experience encompasses child, community, veteran and county mental health clinics. I also provide coverage for crisis houses, inpatient units, psychiatric emergency rooms and detention centers. I am a military veteran, UCLA alumni and Clinical Assistant Professor at University of California, Riverside. Call today for a free phone consultation for medication management of opiate addiction, manic, depressive, anxiety, psychotic and cognitive disorders.
Unfortunately, illicit drugs, pain pill addiction, emotional, physical and sexual traumas are often the springboard for mental conditions that I treat.
My working philosophy is simple, the patient comes first. That said, my approach to medicine is personalized, cordial, with a collaborative relationship and a touch of professional know how. My experience encompasses child, community, veteran and county mental health clinics. I also provide coverage for crisis houses, inpatient units, psychiatric emergency rooms and detention centers. I am a military veteran, UCLA alumni and Clinical Assistant Professor at University of California, Riverside. Call today for a free phone consultation for medication management of opiate addiction, manic, depressive, anxiety, psychotic and cognitive disorders.
(760) 840-5284 View (760) 840-5284
Photo of Veronica Couture, Psychiatrist in Walnut Creek, CA
Veronica Couture
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94133  (Online Only)
You wonder if you’re just overreacting. You know that mental health struggles are real, but you’re not sure if how you’re feeling is just part of life or actually a problem. At the same time, it feels like you’re not doing enough. Fatigue gets the best of you. You beat yourself up and the cycle continues. You deserve a space that is just for you, to find deep healing from anxiety and stress. All are welcome to be seen and heard including those from our BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. Many of my patients are struggling with anxiety, experiencing chronic illness or grief, or want to reduce medications and explore other options.
You wonder if you’re just overreacting. You know that mental health struggles are real, but you’re not sure if how you’re feeling is just part of life or actually a problem. At the same time, it feels like you’re not doing enough. Fatigue gets the best of you. You beat yourself up and the cycle continues. You deserve a space that is just for you, to find deep healing from anxiety and stress. All are welcome to be seen and heard including those from our BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. Many of my patients are struggling with anxiety, experiencing chronic illness or grief, or want to reduce medications and explore other options.
(628) 277-4619 View (628) 277-4619
Photo of Harriet Walker Roeder, Psychiatrist in Walnut Creek, CA
Harriet Walker Roeder
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Stanford, CA 94305  (Online Only)
I treat patients with a wide variety of medical - psychiatric problems including chronic pain, chronic gastrointestinal symptoms, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, pscho-oncology issues, and psycho-dermatologic issues.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist, trained in both psychiatry and internal medicine. I specialize in mind-body medicine, which involves understanding the complex interactions between physical and mental health. Stress and other emotional factors have a strong influence on physical health, and similarly, physical symptoms and diagnoses can have a significant impact on mental health. Understanding and treating the mind and body together is an essential step towards wellness.
I treat patients with a wide variety of medical - psychiatric problems including chronic pain, chronic gastrointestinal symptoms, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, pscho-oncology issues, and psycho-dermatologic issues.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist, trained in both psychiatry and internal medicine. I specialize in mind-body medicine, which involves understanding the complex interactions between physical and mental health. Stress and other emotional factors have a strong influence on physical health, and similarly, physical symptoms and diagnoses can have a significant impact on mental health. Understanding and treating the mind and body together is an essential step towards wellness.
(650) 539-6328 View (650) 539-6328
Photo of Ruth S Rayikanti, Psychiatrist in Walnut Creek, CA
Ruth S Rayikanti
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Dr.Ruth Rayikanti, MD. I am an SF native, resident, & currently working as a Psychiatrist & a consultant. I believe the key to being a solid Psychiatrist is to be a human first before any professional degrees or titles. Hence, my most memorable experiences have been with one-to-one patient interactions and just being in that moment as two human beings above anything else. Evidence based treatment medicine is actively integrated into my practice. Highly tailored care with services are fulfilling and meaningful components of my practice. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, photography, stand up, music & wellness.
Hello! My name is Dr.Ruth Rayikanti, MD. I am an SF native, resident, & currently working as a Psychiatrist & a consultant. I believe the key to being a solid Psychiatrist is to be a human first before any professional degrees or titles. Hence, my most memorable experiences have been with one-to-one patient interactions and just being in that moment as two human beings above anything else. Evidence based treatment medicine is actively integrated into my practice. Highly tailored care with services are fulfilling and meaningful components of my practice. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, photography, stand up, music & wellness.
(415) 691-4254 View (415) 691-4254
Photo of Candice Marie Rugg, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Walnut Creek, CA
Candice Marie Rugg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I specialize in working with patients who struggle with substance use disorders. My approach is based on a harm reduction model, utilizing trauma informed care and a whole person focus when considering treatment options. The care I offer is always client centric and non-judgemental. My other areas of interest include sexual health/sex positivity, and I am passionate in providing culturally sensitive care that is gender-affirming, body-positive, Alt sex/Alt relationship-affirming, and LGBTQIA informed.
I specialize in working with patients who struggle with substance use disorders. My approach is based on a harm reduction model, utilizing trauma informed care and a whole person focus when considering treatment options. The care I offer is always client centric and non-judgemental. My other areas of interest include sexual health/sex positivity, and I am passionate in providing culturally sensitive care that is gender-affirming, body-positive, Alt sex/Alt relationship-affirming, and LGBTQIA informed.
(628) 230-4994 View (628) 230-4994
Photo of Thomas A. Gonda, Psychiatrist in Walnut Creek, CA
Thomas A. Gonda
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
I offer the physician perspective to help you gain insight and knowledge in a comfortable, confidential and supportive atmosphere. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs.. I am a psychiatrist who does talk therapy. Offices in: San Diego and Oakland. I offer weekend and evening hours. I have a DEA license to prescribe Subutex and Suboxone. I offer hypnotherapy as an additional treatment modality. I am a licensed physician in California..
I offer the physician perspective to help you gain insight and knowledge in a comfortable, confidential and supportive atmosphere. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs.. I am a psychiatrist who does talk therapy. Offices in: San Diego and Oakland. I offer weekend and evening hours. I have a DEA license to prescribe Subutex and Suboxone. I offer hypnotherapy as an additional treatment modality. I am a licensed physician in California..
(760) 274-8049 View (760) 274-8049
Photo of Max Burns, Psychiatrist in Walnut Creek, CA
Max Burns
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fairfax, CA 94930
I offer evidence based psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. My therapy approach is a mix of genuine humanism, evidence based (CBT, DBT. RO-DBT) strategies and mindfulness. I strive to be validating, non-judgmental and warm while collaboratively helping you get the tools you need to reach your valued-goals in life.
I offer evidence based psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. My therapy approach is a mix of genuine humanism, evidence based (CBT, DBT. RO-DBT) strategies and mindfulness. I strive to be validating, non-judgmental and warm while collaboratively helping you get the tools you need to reach your valued-goals in life.
(650) 239-6279 View (650) 239-6279
Photo of Jagdeep Kaur, Psychiatrist in Walnut Creek, CA
Jagdeep Kaur
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95758
Dr. Kaur has special clinical interest in medication management of psychiatric symptoms, treating treatment resistant psychiatric conditions and substance use disorders. Dr. Kaur is experienced in using advanced treatment modalities e.g, ketamine, esketamine ( nasal spray) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression. Please send us referrals to our secure and confidential fax at 866-481-8756. Visit our webpage at www.truistpsychiatrists.com
Dr. Kaur has special clinical interest in medication management of psychiatric symptoms, treating treatment resistant psychiatric conditions and substance use disorders. Dr. Kaur is experienced in using advanced treatment modalities e.g, ketamine, esketamine ( nasal spray) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression. Please send us referrals to our secure and confidential fax at 866-481-8756. Visit our webpage at www.truistpsychiatrists.com
(916) 675-3074 View (916) 675-3074
Photo of Madina House Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Walnut Creek, CA
Madina House Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fremont, CA 94539  (Online Only)
I am committed to creating an environment of safety and support where clients can heal and move forward in their journeys of recovery. I understand the importance of having to change in order to live in line with your own personal values. Throughout my years of education and nursing experience, I have come to realize that our mental health is fundamentally connected to caring for the mind, body, and soul of an individual. I hope to partner with you in developing a plan that works and benefits you and your lifestyle.
I am committed to creating an environment of safety and support where clients can heal and move forward in their journeys of recovery. I understand the importance of having to change in order to live in line with your own personal values. Throughout my years of education and nursing experience, I have come to realize that our mental health is fundamentally connected to caring for the mind, body, and soul of an individual. I hope to partner with you in developing a plan that works and benefits you and your lifestyle.
(510) 544-3313 View (510) 544-3313

See more therapy options for Walnut Creek


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.