Chronic Pain Therapists in Tuskegee, AL

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Online Therapists

Photo of Pamela Quekemeyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuskegee, AL
Pamela Quekemeyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
These therapies can help treat emotional disturbances, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, pain, and substance abuse concerns.
Therapy is a journey into self-awareness. My private practice, Birmingham Therapy Services LLC, focuses on addressing presenting symptoms that can be a manifestation of our past and current experiences. Creating a safe environment is fundamental to therapeutic success. My role is to help the client identify what skills are needed in order for them to feel safe; this includes gathering an understanding of past and present experiences, resource building, coping skills development, psychoeducation, and discovering ones strengths. This approach is key in preparing a client's nervous system for the deep dive work.
These therapies can help treat emotional disturbances, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, pain, and substance abuse concerns.
Therapy is a journey into self-awareness. My private practice, Birmingham Therapy Services LLC, focuses on addressing presenting symptoms that can be a manifestation of our past and current experiences. Creating a safe environment is fundamental to therapeutic success. My role is to help the client identify what skills are needed in order for them to feel safe; this includes gathering an understanding of past and present experiences, resource building, coping skills development, psychoeducation, and discovering ones strengths. This approach is key in preparing a client's nervous system for the deep dive work.
(205) 928-8532 View (205) 928-8532
Photo of Jared Montague, Counselor in Tuskegee, AL
Jared Montague
Counselor, MA, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205
My experience in the mental health field is varied and includes victim outreach work, crisis intervention, serious mental illness, as well as individuals with developmental disabilities. My current focus is on anxiety, depression, and trauma, but I am passionate about providing mental health services to a variety of populations aged 19 and older. I have special interests in psychotherapy for chronic illnesses, humor in counseling, and providing support for other professionals in helping fields.
My experience in the mental health field is varied and includes victim outreach work, crisis intervention, serious mental illness, as well as individuals with developmental disabilities. My current focus is on anxiety, depression, and trauma, but I am passionate about providing mental health services to a variety of populations aged 19 and older. I have special interests in psychotherapy for chronic illnesses, humor in counseling, and providing support for other professionals in helping fields.
(205) 512-6624 View (205) 512-6624
Photo of Heather Leigh Larson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuskegee, AL
Heather Leigh Larson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
As a Counselor and Certified Yoga Instructor, I assist clients in addressing anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, and stress, while occasionally assimilating yoga concepts into counseling with incredible results in those seeking to more effectively manage these issues.
Insight, motivation, purpose. These three words describe how I can help. Are you looking to gain insight into your struggles? Motivation to grow and get better as a person? Looking for someone to come along side you in your journey to find purpose in life? We can work together as your story unfolds, taking your past and present experiences to make a plan for a healthy, fulfilling, more purposeful future. We can work together to identify and practice techniques and skills that will benefit you and help you to thrive in your relationships and in life.
As a Counselor and Certified Yoga Instructor, I assist clients in addressing anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, and stress, while occasionally assimilating yoga concepts into counseling with incredible results in those seeking to more effectively manage these issues.
Insight, motivation, purpose. These three words describe how I can help. Are you looking to gain insight into your struggles? Motivation to grow and get better as a person? Looking for someone to come along side you in your journey to find purpose in life? We can work together as your story unfolds, taking your past and present experiences to make a plan for a healthy, fulfilling, more purposeful future. We can work together to identify and practice techniques and skills that will benefit you and help you to thrive in your relationships and in life.
(205) 767-7461 View (205) 767-7461
Photo of Integrative Health Services, LLC Michelle Knight, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tuskegee, AL
Integrative Health Services, LLC Michelle Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP, CREP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pelham, AL 35124
I counsel on many sensitive and intimate topics. Are you struggling with marital issues, have an at-risk teen, grief, gambling, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, or a chronic illness? Is a relationship or career choice no longer serving you in a positive way? My office is a nurturing place that welcomes openness and individuality. I'm an outside the box thinker, a supporter of the LGBTQ plus community, someone who has a personal investment in your success, and can be the confidential sounding board that is difficult to find.
I counsel on many sensitive and intimate topics. Are you struggling with marital issues, have an at-risk teen, grief, gambling, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, or a chronic illness? Is a relationship or career choice no longer serving you in a positive way? My office is a nurturing place that welcomes openness and individuality. I'm an outside the box thinker, a supporter of the LGBTQ plus community, someone who has a personal investment in your success, and can be the confidential sounding board that is difficult to find.
(205) 523-8502 View (205) 523-8502
Photo of Kathryn Strickland Abs Sex Therapist, Counselor in Tuskegee, AL
Kathryn Strickland Abs Sex Therapist
Counselor, MEd, LPC, ABS
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
I specialize in sexual health issues including but not limited to: Pelvic pain, erectile dysfunction, sexual addiction, compulsive sexual behavior, conflict between sexual health and spirituality, sexual shame, sexual identity, and anxiety.
Are you and your relationship struggling due to sexual issues. These sensitive subjects can be difficult to talk about and even harder to find the right therapist for. I specialize in helping individuals through sexual issues of all kinds, including but not limited to: ED, Desire discrepancy, pelvic pain, sexual aversion, sexual trauma, low libido, out of control sexual behavior, negative impacts of pornography and technology, medical sexual dysfunction, and more. Don't let sexual problems stop you from having the life and relationships you desire.
I specialize in sexual health issues including but not limited to: Pelvic pain, erectile dysfunction, sexual addiction, compulsive sexual behavior, conflict between sexual health and spirituality, sexual shame, sexual identity, and anxiety.
Are you and your relationship struggling due to sexual issues. These sensitive subjects can be difficult to talk about and even harder to find the right therapist for. I specialize in helping individuals through sexual issues of all kinds, including but not limited to: ED, Desire discrepancy, pelvic pain, sexual aversion, sexual trauma, low libido, out of control sexual behavior, negative impacts of pornography and technology, medical sexual dysfunction, and more. Don't let sexual problems stop you from having the life and relationships you desire.
(205) 619-1526 View (205) 619-1526
Photo of Dr. Charles T. Rubio, Psychologist in Tuskegee, AL
Dr. Charles T. Rubio
Psychologist, PhD, PC
Verified Verified
Opelika, AL 36801
Drawing from a range of modalities including stress and pain management, and mindfulness, his treatment approach integrates both cognitive-behavioral techniques and psychodynamic theory.
For more than 25 years Dr, Rubio has counseled adults, adolescents, couples, and families. Helping college students adjust to living away from home has been a particularly rewarding part of his practice. Dr. Rubio also collaborates with local attorneys to provide psychological services for alcohol and drug related offenses, and anger management issues.Since 1993, he has served as psychological consultant to Lyman Ward Military Academy, a military boarding school.
Drawing from a range of modalities including stress and pain management, and mindfulness, his treatment approach integrates both cognitive-behavioral techniques and psychodynamic theory.
For more than 25 years Dr, Rubio has counseled adults, adolescents, couples, and families. Helping college students adjust to living away from home has been a particularly rewarding part of his practice. Dr. Rubio also collaborates with local attorneys to provide psychological services for alcohol and drug related offenses, and anger management issues.Since 1993, he has served as psychological consultant to Lyman Ward Military Academy, a military boarding school.
(334) 267-7174 View (334) 267-7174
Photo of Laura H Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tuskegee, AL
Laura H Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Are you in the middle of a challenging time? I help people navigate the transitions that often occur in life; including illness, divorce, and grief related to all types of loss. I enjoy helping people heal from life's most difficult events, such as sexual assault, childhood abuse, religious trauma, medical trauma, acts of violence and other similar incidents. You have inherent beauty and worth. I believe my role as a therapist is to assist and guide you as you move toward a healthier life.
Are you in the middle of a challenging time? I help people navigate the transitions that often occur in life; including illness, divorce, and grief related to all types of loss. I enjoy helping people heal from life's most difficult events, such as sexual assault, childhood abuse, religious trauma, medical trauma, acts of violence and other similar incidents. You have inherent beauty and worth. I believe my role as a therapist is to assist and guide you as you move toward a healthier life.
(205) 953-8581 View (205) 953-8581
Photo of Judith Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuskegee, AL
Judith Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, SC
Verified Verified
McCalla, AL 35111
Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: anxiety and/or depression, pre-marital/marital issues, chronic pain/illness, chemical dependency, educational/ vocational attainment, dealing with trauma/abuse from the past, and grief and loss.
NOW OFFERING TELEHEALTH ONLINE SESSIONS!! I have over 25 years experience in the Mental Health field, having worked in a variety of settings. I have certification in Trauma Counseling. I work with all ages, regardless of sex, race, lifestyle choice, or economic status. If you are having challenges because of anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, or family issues, I can provide you with assistance. I am also a Certified Transformation Life Coach - helping people transform their lives and realize their dreams.
Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: anxiety and/or depression, pre-marital/marital issues, chronic pain/illness, chemical dependency, educational/ vocational attainment, dealing with trauma/abuse from the past, and grief and loss.
NOW OFFERING TELEHEALTH ONLINE SESSIONS!! I have over 25 years experience in the Mental Health field, having worked in a variety of settings. I have certification in Trauma Counseling. I work with all ages, regardless of sex, race, lifestyle choice, or economic status. If you are having challenges because of anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, or family issues, I can provide you with assistance. I am also a Certified Transformation Life Coach - helping people transform their lives and realize their dreams.
(844) 294-8195 View (844) 294-8195
Photo of Tracy Lambrecht, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuskegee, AL
Tracy Lambrecht
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Chelsea, AL 35043
Are you a female seeking relief from chronic or unexplained pain? Distressing life events, emotional distress, and negative thought patterns can significantly impact our ability to control our physical pain. It can be so overwhelming to figure out this complex web of symptoms on your own. My goals are to help reduce your symptoms, address any underlying psychological factors that may contribute to your pain, and create specific interventions to assist you in managing your pain.
Are you a female seeking relief from chronic or unexplained pain? Distressing life events, emotional distress, and negative thought patterns can significantly impact our ability to control our physical pain. It can be so overwhelming to figure out this complex web of symptoms on your own. My goals are to help reduce your symptoms, address any underlying psychological factors that may contribute to your pain, and create specific interventions to assist you in managing your pain.
(205) 202-9685 View (205) 202-9685
Photo of Amanda Pratt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tuskegee, AL
Amanda Pratt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242  (Online Only)
Perhaps you've been recently diagnosed with a long term illness or you've had symptoms for so long you don’t recognize yourself anymore. You know these health struggles are somehow behind your depressed and anxious feelings, and you feel alone…like no one understands. Right now, you may have more questions than answers, but one thing you know for sure is that you’d do anything to get your life back. You grieve for the person you used to be and find it hard to imagine yourself living a worthwhile life with this illness trying to drag you down every chance it gets. (Due to demand, I ONLY accept clients with chronic illness concerns)
Perhaps you've been recently diagnosed with a long term illness or you've had symptoms for so long you don’t recognize yourself anymore. You know these health struggles are somehow behind your depressed and anxious feelings, and you feel alone…like no one understands. Right now, you may have more questions than answers, but one thing you know for sure is that you’d do anything to get your life back. You grieve for the person you used to be and find it hard to imagine yourself living a worthwhile life with this illness trying to drag you down every chance it gets. (Due to demand, I ONLY accept clients with chronic illness concerns)
(727) 353-0729 View (727) 353-0729
Photo of Integrative Health Services, LLC in Tuskegee, AL
Integrative Health Services, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pelham, AL 35124
Treatment includes but is not limited to depression, health issues such as autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, anxiety, grief, LGBTQ issues, alternate lifestyles, ADHD, behavioral issues, at risk teens, addictions, as well as pre-marital, marriage, divorce and co-parenting.
SATURDAY OPENINGS AVAILABLE and ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Integrative Health Services, LLC focuses on treating the mind, body, and spirit. Everyone is not the same and therefore, treatment is tailored to fit the individual needs of each person. Overall health and well-being are strongly encouraged while receiving mental health treatment. This is why Integrative Health Services keeps a unique referral list of highly qualified primary care doctors, massage therapists, holistic doctors/herbalists, yoga therapy instructors, psychiatrists, rheumatologists, personal trainers and many others that promote overall health and well-being.
Treatment includes but is not limited to depression, health issues such as autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, anxiety, grief, LGBTQ issues, alternate lifestyles, ADHD, behavioral issues, at risk teens, addictions, as well as pre-marital, marriage, divorce and co-parenting.
SATURDAY OPENINGS AVAILABLE and ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Integrative Health Services, LLC focuses on treating the mind, body, and spirit. Everyone is not the same and therefore, treatment is tailored to fit the individual needs of each person. Overall health and well-being are strongly encouraged while receiving mental health treatment. This is why Integrative Health Services keeps a unique referral list of highly qualified primary care doctors, massage therapists, holistic doctors/herbalists, yoga therapy instructors, psychiatrists, rheumatologists, personal trainers and many others that promote overall health and well-being.
(833) 567-3538 View (833) 567-3538
Photo of HypnosisByDoctors.com in Tuskegee, AL
HypnosisByDoctors.com
PsyD, CI, CH
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36117
Dr. Clinton Smith, psychologist and clinical hypnotist offers a Free Consultion for WEIGHT LOSS, ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, PAIN CONTROL & SMOKING. These services and many more have been offered from your smartphone since 2007. Moreover, Dr. Smith has been in private practice over 25 yrs. See testimonials from the local military base, former patients and M.D.s on our website: HypnosisByDoctors.com Unlike most therapist, Dr. Smith will PROVE you can experience hypnosis before you start therapy and coaching program.
Dr. Clinton Smith, psychologist and clinical hypnotist offers a Free Consultion for WEIGHT LOSS, ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, PAIN CONTROL & SMOKING. These services and many more have been offered from your smartphone since 2007. Moreover, Dr. Smith has been in private practice over 25 yrs. See testimonials from the local military base, former patients and M.D.s on our website: HypnosisByDoctors.com Unlike most therapist, Dr. Smith will PROVE you can experience hypnosis before you start therapy and coaching program.
(334) 377-4183 View (334) 377-4183
Photo of Shannon S Crenshaw, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuskegee, AL
Shannon S Crenshaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
(205) 583-0367 View (205) 583-0367
Photo of Misty Smith, PhD, LPC-S Certified Sex Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuskegee, AL
Misty Smith, PhD, LPC-S Certified Sex Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
Sexual issues with you and/or your partner including sexual dysfunctions such as low libido/sexual desire discrepancy, sexual pain, ED (men), etc. can be overwhelming & difficult to navigate or even discuss. I provide a safe, judgement-free environment to process & address these struggles as well as sexual identity & alternative lifestyle issues/struggles. Also treating: Relationship/Marital/Pre-Marital, Sexual Addiction & Anxiety/Depression related to Sexual Issues.
Sexual issues with you and/or your partner including sexual dysfunctions such as low libido/sexual desire discrepancy, sexual pain, ED (men), etc. can be overwhelming & difficult to navigate or even discuss. I provide a safe, judgement-free environment to process & address these struggles as well as sexual identity & alternative lifestyle issues/struggles. Also treating: Relationship/Marital/Pre-Marital, Sexual Addiction & Anxiety/Depression related to Sexual Issues.
(205) 377-5820 x700 View (205) 377-5820 x700
Photo of Pamela Hayes, Counselor in Tuskegee, AL
Pamela Hayes
Counselor, LMSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35213
Sometimes we get stuck. We may find ourselves repeating familiar patterns that, while fiercely self-protective, no longer serve us in the present moment. We may not be able to find our sense of safety and connection which can leave us feeling hopeless for a brighter future. I want to reassure you that despite what might feel like relentless suffering, there is always hope for healing. Together, we can explore ways to reconnect with the body’s innate wisdom, fostering a sense of safety regardless of past experiences. I specialize in C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and chronic pain.
Sometimes we get stuck. We may find ourselves repeating familiar patterns that, while fiercely self-protective, no longer serve us in the present moment. We may not be able to find our sense of safety and connection which can leave us feeling hopeless for a brighter future. I want to reassure you that despite what might feel like relentless suffering, there is always hope for healing. Together, we can explore ways to reconnect with the body’s innate wisdom, fostering a sense of safety regardless of past experiences. I specialize in C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and chronic pain.
(659) 234-2158 View (659) 234-2158
Photo of Kelly Lansden, Counselor in Tuskegee, AL
Kelly Lansden
Counselor, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35244
Some of the issues I can help with include life changes, trauma, gender identity, sexuality, neurodivergence, chronic illness, pain management, anxiety and depression.
A few simple words can change everything. "I love you." "You have cancer." "I want a divorce." "You're hired." "We regret to inform you..." Just like that your life has veered onto a new road, and ready or not you must either adjust or crash. Therapy can be integral to navigating life's changes and challenges. You don't have to go it alone!
Some of the issues I can help with include life changes, trauma, gender identity, sexuality, neurodivergence, chronic illness, pain management, anxiety and depression.
A few simple words can change everything. "I love you." "You have cancer." "I want a divorce." "You're hired." "We regret to inform you..." Just like that your life has veered onto a new road, and ready or not you must either adjust or crash. Therapy can be integral to navigating life's changes and challenges. You don't have to go it alone!
(205) 997-3294 View (205) 997-3294
Photo of Alena Porter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuskegee, AL
Alena Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Auburn, AL 36830  (Online Only)
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence. Ideally, sex makes us feel happy, loved, and connected. Yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you avoided talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Have you ever had a sexual encounter that was other than consentual but you didn't know who to talk to or even what to say about it? If so, I can help you work through your thoughts and feelings about sex and sexual experiences
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence. Ideally, sex makes us feel happy, loved, and connected. Yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you avoided talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Have you ever had a sexual encounter that was other than consentual but you didn't know who to talk to or even what to say about it? If so, I can help you work through your thoughts and feelings about sex and sexual experiences
(256) 300-6088 View (256) 300-6088
Photo of Ellery C. Berryhill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuskegee, AL
Ellery C. Berryhill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242
Are you facing overwhelming challenges in your marriage or relationships? With your children? Are you struggling with depression or anxiety/fear? Whether you are facing a job transition, conflict in your relationship, a death of a friend or relative, or another pressing concern, therapy provides you someone to listen, to walk beside you through these experiences, and to offer guidance and support as you face new discoveries and insights to your life and well-being. I have experience working with adults, adolescents, couples, and families and view therapy as your opportunity to grow healthier -- mentally, emotionally, behaviorally, relationally, and spiritually.
Are you facing overwhelming challenges in your marriage or relationships? With your children? Are you struggling with depression or anxiety/fear? Whether you are facing a job transition, conflict in your relationship, a death of a friend or relative, or another pressing concern, therapy provides you someone to listen, to walk beside you through these experiences, and to offer guidance and support as you face new discoveries and insights to your life and well-being. I have experience working with adults, adolescents, couples, and families and view therapy as your opportunity to grow healthier -- mentally, emotionally, behaviorally, relationally, and spiritually.
(205) 623-5917 View (205) 623-5917
Photo of Janice E Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuskegee, AL
Janice E Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
Waitlist for new clients
Most people are experiencing normal reactions to unusual stress or situations in their lives, past or present. My approaches support working through issues, and building stronger skills for meeting any additional challenges. These can include traditional and mind-body-spirit techniques, including NLP, time-line therapy, rational thinking, meditative and relaxation methods, and overall support for the journey. I work with individuals, parent-child issues, couples, and blended family relationships. Working in areas of physical and mental wellness, we partner together to support mental and physical well-being and ongoing growth.
Most people are experiencing normal reactions to unusual stress or situations in their lives, past or present. My approaches support working through issues, and building stronger skills for meeting any additional challenges. These can include traditional and mind-body-spirit techniques, including NLP, time-line therapy, rational thinking, meditative and relaxation methods, and overall support for the journey. I work with individuals, parent-child issues, couples, and blended family relationships. Working in areas of physical and mental wellness, we partner together to support mental and physical well-being and ongoing growth.
(205) 301-2774 View (205) 301-2774
Photo of Birmingham Family Counseling and Mediation Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuskegee, AL
Birmingham Family Counseling and Mediation Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35205
Currently Accepting New Clients. Perhaps you are a parent, struggling to find help for your child or teen who is dealing with behavioral or emotional concerns? Maybe you are an individual who is struggling with sadness, hopelessness, stress or anxiety. At Birmingham Family Counseling, we strive to provide inclusive, individualized care to support those who may be dealing with difficulty in life. We are here to support you through this time.
Currently Accepting New Clients. Perhaps you are a parent, struggling to find help for your child or teen who is dealing with behavioral or emotional concerns? Maybe you are an individual who is struggling with sadness, hopelessness, stress or anxiety. At Birmingham Family Counseling, we strive to provide inclusive, individualized care to support those who may be dealing with difficulty in life. We are here to support you through this time.
(205) 635-7880 View (205) 635-7880
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.