Chronic Pain Therapists in Ventura County, CA

Photo of Diane R. Lipson, Ph.D., Psychologist in Ventura County, CA
Diane R. Lipson, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
If you are feeling alone and frightened due to chronic illness or pain, there is help.
In my practice, I see patients dealing with anxiety and depression associated with chronic and severe Medical problems. As a Health Psychologist, I have been in private practice since 1986, following my Doctoral work at USC. In graduate school, my research was involved with psychological reactions to serious medical conditions. Since that time, I have worked with many patients suffering from pain, cardiac conditions, cancer and autoimmune disorders, in addition to helping people cope with grief. Chronic illness is life altering, and can affect every aspect of a person's life. Learning to cope is critical in reclaiming your life.
If you are feeling alone and frightened due to chronic illness or pain, there is help.
In my practice, I see patients dealing with anxiety and depression associated with chronic and severe Medical problems. As a Health Psychologist, I have been in private practice since 1986, following my Doctoral work at USC. In graduate school, my research was involved with psychological reactions to serious medical conditions. Since that time, I have worked with many patients suffering from pain, cardiac conditions, cancer and autoimmune disorders, in addition to helping people cope with grief. Chronic illness is life altering, and can affect every aspect of a person's life. Learning to cope is critical in reclaiming your life.
(818) 946-0671 View (818) 946-0671
Photo of Dr. Kristine Pickwith, Psychologist in Ventura County, CA
Dr. Kristine Pickwith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Are you feeling isolated from those around you because they can't simply understand the pain and frustration of managing your chronic illness? Do you find yourself lost in your grief with the reality of life without your loved one? If you're seeking empathy, support, and a safe space to make sense of these profound emotions, you've come to the right place. Together, we'll explore your thoughts and emotions, develop coping skills, and foster resilience to face life's difficulties.
Are you feeling isolated from those around you because they can't simply understand the pain and frustration of managing your chronic illness? Do you find yourself lost in your grief with the reality of life without your loved one? If you're seeking empathy, support, and a safe space to make sense of these profound emotions, you've come to the right place. Together, we'll explore your thoughts and emotions, develop coping skills, and foster resilience to face life's difficulties.
(424) 365-8861 View (424) 365-8861
Photo of Sipora B. Weissman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Sipora B. Weissman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
I get what it's like to live with- Chronic Pain & Illness, terrible Anxiety, and being Highly Sensitive that you feel everything! I help people with these issues along with complex trauma & sound sensitivities. Connecting the dots to understand how your childhood (upbringing, trauma, stressful events, family) may be contributing to your distress today can be extremely eye opening and transformative. In session I use many deeper brain therapies. Healing and becoming a secure capable human is the goal and completely attainable! I view therapy as a collaboration and as a Mind-Body Therapist I am an active participant and guide.
I get what it's like to live with- Chronic Pain & Illness, terrible Anxiety, and being Highly Sensitive that you feel everything! I help people with these issues along with complex trauma & sound sensitivities. Connecting the dots to understand how your childhood (upbringing, trauma, stressful events, family) may be contributing to your distress today can be extremely eye opening and transformative. In session I use many deeper brain therapies. Healing and becoming a secure capable human is the goal and completely attainable! I view therapy as a collaboration and as a Mind-Body Therapist I am an active participant and guide.
(805) 219-7241 x718928 View (805) 219-7241 x718928
Photo of Shanna Willner, Counselor in Ventura County, CA
Shanna Willner
Counselor, MA, PMP, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
I work with anxiety, PTS/D, chronic pain, medical trauma, abuse, and illness including insomnia, migraine, and body system issues.
You can heal. I'm an ally and guide in the process. I work with pts/d and trauma, anxiety, chronic pain, and attachment interruption. My work integrates psychotherapy, bio-psychology, behavioral change, and holistic practice, and I use the lense of attachment theory to guide us. We will dismantle the barriers that block you from living your fullest life, however you define that, and we'll help you build new pathways to travel forward. Together, we use our relationship, your self-knowledge and life-knowledge, and my specialized training to move your life into something personally satisfying. I expect to open an office 6/24
I work with anxiety, PTS/D, chronic pain, medical trauma, abuse, and illness including insomnia, migraine, and body system issues.
You can heal. I'm an ally and guide in the process. I work with pts/d and trauma, anxiety, chronic pain, and attachment interruption. My work integrates psychotherapy, bio-psychology, behavioral change, and holistic practice, and I use the lense of attachment theory to guide us. We will dismantle the barriers that block you from living your fullest life, however you define that, and we'll help you build new pathways to travel forward. Together, we use our relationship, your self-knowledge and life-knowledge, and my specialized training to move your life into something personally satisfying. I expect to open an office 6/24
(424) 206-6738 View (424) 206-6738
Photo of Envision Wellness Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Envision Wellness Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westlake Village, CA 91362  (Online Only)
We are passionate about helping women who are faced with various challenges related to infertility, postpartum, women's health, and chronic illness. Our team of therapists uses their specialized training and lived experience to customize ways to best support you during this time.
We are passionate about helping women who are faced with various challenges related to infertility, postpartum, women's health, and chronic illness. Our team of therapists uses their specialized training and lived experience to customize ways to best support you during this time.
(805) 800-8278 View (805) 800-8278
Photo of Beth Leedham - Individuals And Couples, Psychologist in Ventura County, CA
Beth Leedham - Individuals And Couples
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
I also have special expertise helping families affected by medical illnesses, such as cancer, MS, diabetes, RA, colitis, Crohn's, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and neurological diseases.
With twenty-five years of experience and outstanding credentials, I have two goals for my clients: Solve the immediate problem that brings you to therapy, and promote lasting change. My arenas of work include depression, anxiety, stress, and relationship difficulties. I have extensive training in couples therapy and am an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist. I deal with all manner of sexual issues, including desire problems, addiction, affairs, and the "sexless marriage." I welcome clients from varied backgrounds and communities.
I also have special expertise helping families affected by medical illnesses, such as cancer, MS, diabetes, RA, colitis, Crohn's, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and neurological diseases.
With twenty-five years of experience and outstanding credentials, I have two goals for my clients: Solve the immediate problem that brings you to therapy, and promote lasting change. My arenas of work include depression, anxiety, stress, and relationship difficulties. I have extensive training in couples therapy and am an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist. I deal with all manner of sexual issues, including desire problems, addiction, affairs, and the "sexless marriage." I welcome clients from varied backgrounds and communities.
(818) 963-9278 View (818) 963-9278
Photo of Shelley L Segal, Psychologist in Ventura County, CA
Shelley L Segal
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pain is a mind-body experience impacting our sense of self and relationships.
As a clinical psychologist working with adolescents, adults and couples, my goal is to help people struggling with life's challenges and difficulties. I will help you gain insight into short and long-term issues and provide you with valuable tools and techniques to provide relief from symptoms and/or situations that are negatively impacting your life. This results in a better sense of self and well-being and more fulfilling relationships. I treat a wide array of psychological problems such as anxiety and depression and specialize in treating those suffering with chronic pain.
Pain is a mind-body experience impacting our sense of self and relationships.
As a clinical psychologist working with adolescents, adults and couples, my goal is to help people struggling with life's challenges and difficulties. I will help you gain insight into short and long-term issues and provide you with valuable tools and techniques to provide relief from symptoms and/or situations that are negatively impacting your life. This results in a better sense of self and well-being and more fulfilling relationships. I treat a wide array of psychological problems such as anxiety and depression and specialize in treating those suffering with chronic pain.
(818) 495-8889 View (818) 495-8889
Photo of Don M Goodman Inc, Psychologist in Ventura County, CA
Don M Goodman Inc
Psychologist, PhD, CCHt, CDMHRS
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
I am on staff at UCLA as chief pain psychologist in the Orofacial pain department and I have offices in Santa Monica and Thousand Oaks.
I believe anxiety and stress to be the foundation of many issues we all face. My first goal is to help my patients reduce stress thereby decreasing chronic pain, depression and even the ravages of disease and illness. By developing rapport and trust and then utilizing healthy coping skills, the goal of anxiety reduction can be achieved. Its important to remember that we are engaged in a collaborative process where we learn to accept, resolve, move on and let go. I find that mindfulness, meditation and breathing is highly effective in decreasing anxiety and depression.
I am on staff at UCLA as chief pain psychologist in the Orofacial pain department and I have offices in Santa Monica and Thousand Oaks.
I believe anxiety and stress to be the foundation of many issues we all face. My first goal is to help my patients reduce stress thereby decreasing chronic pain, depression and even the ravages of disease and illness. By developing rapport and trust and then utilizing healthy coping skills, the goal of anxiety reduction can be achieved. Its important to remember that we are engaged in a collaborative process where we learn to accept, resolve, move on and let go. I find that mindfulness, meditation and breathing is highly effective in decreasing anxiety and depression.
(818) 462-8293 View (818) 462-8293
Photo of Shushan Khachatryan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Shushan Khachatryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
IT IS IN OUR DARKEST MOMENTS THAT WE MUST FOCUS TO SEE THE LIGHT. Your present circumstance does not determine your future. It's time to move from suffering & hardship to a place of happiness & comfort. I provide treatment & symptom relief for Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Trauma, OCD, Addiction, Anger, Grief, Infertility, Chronic Illness, Unemployment, & other life challenges that are holding you back from living the life you deserve. My goal is to assist you in working towards your potential & improving your well-being, as well as build on your strengths & attain the personal growth you are committed to accomplishing.
IT IS IN OUR DARKEST MOMENTS THAT WE MUST FOCUS TO SEE THE LIGHT. Your present circumstance does not determine your future. It's time to move from suffering & hardship to a place of happiness & comfort. I provide treatment & symptom relief for Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Trauma, OCD, Addiction, Anger, Grief, Infertility, Chronic Illness, Unemployment, & other life challenges that are holding you back from living the life you deserve. My goal is to assist you in working towards your potential & improving your well-being, as well as build on your strengths & attain the personal growth you are committed to accomplishing.
(818) 926-3030 View (818) 926-3030
Photo of Daniela L. Paolone, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Daniela L. Paolone
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS LMFT
Verified Verified
22 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361  (Online Only)
I am Daniela Paolone, a Marriage & Family therapist in California (Lic 90752) & Wyoming (LMFT-223).  I am passionate about helping you move out of pain so that you can feel empowered in taking the next steps toward a more fulfilling & rewarding life. As a Latina & Italian therapist, I enjoy working w/diverse ethnic, cultural, religious & gender groups.  I specialize in Latinx counseling, chronic pain & illness, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationship stressors & caregiver support. Living with my own health challenges has helped shape my practice & approaches to give clients tailored support to help them reach their goals.
I am Daniela Paolone, a Marriage & Family therapist in California (Lic 90752) & Wyoming (LMFT-223).  I am passionate about helping you move out of pain so that you can feel empowered in taking the next steps toward a more fulfilling & rewarding life. As a Latina & Italian therapist, I enjoy working w/diverse ethnic, cultural, religious & gender groups.  I specialize in Latinx counseling, chronic pain & illness, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationship stressors & caregiver support. Living with my own health challenges has helped shape my practice & approaches to give clients tailored support to help them reach their goals.
(818) 599-3048 View (818) 599-3048
Photo of Brenna Belnick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Brenna Belnick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am passionate about helping people who suffer from chronic illness, trauma, personality disorders & anxiety/depression.
I believe it takes an immense amount of courage to ask for help when you feel like you are struggling. Life can be unfair, relentless, scary, and exhausting at times. As a therapist, I believe that exploring and identifying the root of those negative feelings, thoughts, and/or events can be the recipe for relief and wanted change. I aim to create a safe, warm, trusting and transparent space for you to feel comfortable, confident, and cared for in.
I am passionate about helping people who suffer from chronic illness, trauma, personality disorders & anxiety/depression.
I believe it takes an immense amount of courage to ask for help when you feel like you are struggling. Life can be unfair, relentless, scary, and exhausting at times. As a therapist, I believe that exploring and identifying the root of those negative feelings, thoughts, and/or events can be the recipe for relief and wanted change. I aim to create a safe, warm, trusting and transparent space for you to feel comfortable, confident, and cared for in.
(747) 207-4185 View (747) 207-4185
Photo of Isabel Bernal-Ward, PhD, Psychologist in Ventura County, CA
Isabel Bernal-Ward, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Many people are struggling with worry, sadness, emotional/physical pain, and/or stress. I can teach you effective coping strategies to deal with these. I have been doing it successfully the past 20+ years. The results are people often experience more peace, better sleep, better mood, and better relationship connections with others at home and/or at work. Becoming a better you will be one of the best investments you will ever make. Call today to set up an appointment to discuss your particular situation.
Many people are struggling with worry, sadness, emotional/physical pain, and/or stress. I can teach you effective coping strategies to deal with these. I have been doing it successfully the past 20+ years. The results are people often experience more peace, better sleep, better mood, and better relationship connections with others at home and/or at work. Becoming a better you will be one of the best investments you will ever make. Call today to set up an appointment to discuss your particular situation.
(805) 312-7263 View (805) 312-7263
Photo of Patricia A. Ruddy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Patricia A. Ruddy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
I truly have a gift of providing empathy and rapport and helping individuals acknowledge their pain and move toward solutions through personal and spiritual growth.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been providing psychotherapy for almost thirty years with all ages and all different populations. My treatment modality encompasses an electic style based on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Brief/Solution Focused Therapy. An integral part of my work with clients includes establishing a collaborative and therapeutic alliance, identifying goals, and developing solutions. I empower clients to identify their resilience, resourcefulness and systems of support where I guide clients through the process of discovering their aspirations and developing solutions.
I truly have a gift of providing empathy and rapport and helping individuals acknowledge their pain and move toward solutions through personal and spiritual growth.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been providing psychotherapy for almost thirty years with all ages and all different populations. My treatment modality encompasses an electic style based on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Brief/Solution Focused Therapy. An integral part of my work with clients includes establishing a collaborative and therapeutic alliance, identifying goals, and developing solutions. I empower clients to identify their resilience, resourcefulness and systems of support where I guide clients through the process of discovering their aspirations and developing solutions.
(805) 244-5639 View (805) 244-5639
Photo of Kelleen Stainer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Kelleen Stainer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oxnard, CA 93030
Hello, I am Kelleen Stainer. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I take a 'client-centered' approach to therapy and believe therapy is a partnership between the client and the therapist. I typically work with adult clients in need of additional support to cope with their current life challenges. I am most comfortable treating individuals with generalized anxiety disorder, depression, grief, self-esteem issues, chronic illness and relationship issues.
Hello, I am Kelleen Stainer. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I take a 'client-centered' approach to therapy and believe therapy is a partnership between the client and the therapist. I typically work with adult clients in need of additional support to cope with their current life challenges. I am most comfortable treating individuals with generalized anxiety disorder, depression, grief, self-esteem issues, chronic illness and relationship issues.
(805) 317-7954 View (805) 317-7954
Photo of Joan Joanie Howard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Joan Joanie Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Chronic pain, weight and body issues and fear and depression related to life issues beyond one's control are just some of the kinds of presenting problems to bring to the conversation to see how I can be of help.
I welcome you to contact me directly. We can take the opportunity to address your needs during a complimentary 15 minute consultation either by phone or in person. Whether self-referred, referred by a friend, colleague, physician or other health professional, i am here to help assess and address your needs collaboratively, working along with you to create a plan to bring relief, improvement and often resolution to your life issues. My goal is to help you clarify and meet your goals. Fees are flexible for those in need. I have recently started to offer services covered by insurance.
Chronic pain, weight and body issues and fear and depression related to life issues beyond one's control are just some of the kinds of presenting problems to bring to the conversation to see how I can be of help.
I welcome you to contact me directly. We can take the opportunity to address your needs during a complimentary 15 minute consultation either by phone or in person. Whether self-referred, referred by a friend, colleague, physician or other health professional, i am here to help assess and address your needs collaboratively, working along with you to create a plan to bring relief, improvement and often resolution to your life issues. My goal is to help you clarify and meet your goals. Fees are flexible for those in need. I have recently started to offer services covered by insurance.
(805) 716-6742 View (805) 716-6742
Photo of Casey J. Simon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Casey J. Simon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
When it comes to mental illness, treatment and outlook can feel daunting. My therapeutic approach is developed on an individual basis with an emphasis on reshaping personality organization in order to create long-lasting change. I truly enjoy assisting my patients in defeating their symptoms and regaining control of their lives. I have experience working with an array of individuals, ranging from young children to adults suffering from a multitude of mental health issues. Aside from my private practice, I work as a group therapist in an intensive outpatient program with individuals just released from emergency psychiatric care.
When it comes to mental illness, treatment and outlook can feel daunting. My therapeutic approach is developed on an individual basis with an emphasis on reshaping personality organization in order to create long-lasting change. I truly enjoy assisting my patients in defeating their symptoms and regaining control of their lives. I have experience working with an array of individuals, ranging from young children to adults suffering from a multitude of mental health issues. Aside from my private practice, I work as a group therapist in an intensive outpatient program with individuals just released from emergency psychiatric care.
(805) 716-6072 View (805) 716-6072
Photo of Eileen McDowell in Ventura County, CA
Eileen McDowell
PhD, MBA, LPC, C Hypno
Verified Verified
Oxnard, CA 93035
Rapid Transformational Therapy — 93% success rate inside 6 sessions. Psychotherapy — 38% success rate after 600. Experience the fastest and most effective method to eradicate addiction, compulsive behaviors, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, weight loss and mindset blocks. Reprogram your mind for ultimate success, abundance and healing with world-famous, proven techniques that have helped Olympians, A-List Actors, Entrepreneurs, CEOs, and others excel.
Rapid Transformational Therapy — 93% success rate inside 6 sessions. Psychotherapy — 38% success rate after 600. Experience the fastest and most effective method to eradicate addiction, compulsive behaviors, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, weight loss and mindset blocks. Reprogram your mind for ultimate success, abundance and healing with world-famous, proven techniques that have helped Olympians, A-List Actors, Entrepreneurs, CEOs, and others excel.
(636) 578-1828 View (636) 578-1828
Photo of Sally McClain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Sally McClain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and eating disorders. In addition, I work with individuals living with chronic illness and I have extensive experience working with Type 1 Diabetes. I focus on identifying the root of the problem and developing an array of coping tools to alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. Depending on my client, I do regular talk therapy, walk-and-talk therapy, equine therapy, and utilize various intervention styles. I would love to explore the ways that I can be of support to you and your loved one.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and eating disorders. In addition, I work with individuals living with chronic illness and I have extensive experience working with Type 1 Diabetes. I focus on identifying the root of the problem and developing an array of coping tools to alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. Depending on my client, I do regular talk therapy, walk-and-talk therapy, equine therapy, and utilize various intervention styles. I would love to explore the ways that I can be of support to you and your loved one.
(424) 329-8925 View (424) 329-8925
Photo of Insight Neuropsychology, Psychologist in Ventura County, CA
Insight Neuropsychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Camarillo, CA 93010
My staff and I specialize in providing neuropsychological assessments of traumatic brain injury, dementia, stroke, neurological illness, and ADHD/learning disability.
Welcome, our practice at Insight Neuropsychology specializes in personalized neuropsychological assessment and treatment services to assist you in promoting your cognitive health. Our goal is to help you learn about how your brain is functioning, as insight is the first step in learning how to improve your mental functions. Neuropsychological assessment is one of the most sensitive instruments for detecting subtle cognitive deficits that are not obvious on MRI's or other brain scans, but which can have a large impact on a person's daily functioning. In addition to assessment, we also provide supportive counseling for patients and caregivers.
My staff and I specialize in providing neuropsychological assessments of traumatic brain injury, dementia, stroke, neurological illness, and ADHD/learning disability.
Welcome, our practice at Insight Neuropsychology specializes in personalized neuropsychological assessment and treatment services to assist you in promoting your cognitive health. Our goal is to help you learn about how your brain is functioning, as insight is the first step in learning how to improve your mental functions. Neuropsychological assessment is one of the most sensitive instruments for detecting subtle cognitive deficits that are not obvious on MRI's or other brain scans, but which can have a large impact on a person's daily functioning. In addition to assessment, we also provide supportive counseling for patients and caregivers.
(805) 467-7062 View (805) 467-7062
Photo of Roger William Coger, Psychologist in Ventura County, CA
Roger William Coger
Psychologist, PhD, P, H, D
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065  (Online Only)
I have had extensive experience with families that have ADHD and communication problems and have worked with medical teams for treatment of chronic pain and disabilities.
I have a wide range of training and experience working to help people with depression, anxiety, and problems with attention, concentration, and organization. This includes children with learning and behavior problems and adults with social interaction difficulties. Soldiers Project to treat soldiers returning from deployment, with deployment related problems, and their families. My primary goal is to aid people in finding their way to a happier life by identifying emotional and cognitive barriers.
I have had extensive experience with families that have ADHD and communication problems and have worked with medical teams for treatment of chronic pain and disabilities.
I have a wide range of training and experience working to help people with depression, anxiety, and problems with attention, concentration, and organization. This includes children with learning and behavior problems and adults with social interaction difficulties. Soldiers Project to treat soldiers returning from deployment, with deployment related problems, and their families. My primary goal is to aid people in finding their way to a happier life by identifying emotional and cognitive barriers.
(805) 526-4444 View (805) 526-4444

See more therapy options for Ventura County

Chronic Pain Therapists

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.