Chronic Pain Therapists in 02446

Photo of Diana Arntz, Pre-Licensed Professional in 02446, MA
Diana Arntz
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I specialize in the treatment of stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, chronic pain, and insomnia. I use a warm, strengths-focused, and collaborative style and emphasize integrative, whole person care. I currently have availability for in-person appointments on Mondays and Fridays at Boston Behavioral Medicine in Brookline and also offer telehealth sessions on Wednesdays.
I specialize in the treatment of stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, chronic pain, and insomnia. I use a warm, strengths-focused, and collaborative style and emphasize integrative, whole person care. I currently have availability for in-person appointments on Mondays and Fridays at Boston Behavioral Medicine in Brookline and also offer telehealth sessions on Wednesdays.
(617) 431-4345 View (617) 431-4345
Photo of Melanie R. Nevis, Creative Arts Therapist in 02446, MA
Melanie R. Nevis
Creative Arts Therapist, MA, LCAT, ACC
Not Verified Not Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
I help people CHRONIC PAIN, STRESS OR ANXIETY who have had limited success in seeking help, with powerful leading edge mind- body and neuroscience approaches to heal and decrease symptoms.
Welcome! I know that finding the right therapist or coach can feel confusing or overwhelming. I offer a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your challenges and move towards fully embracing yourself and living the life you desire. My approach brings together Gestalt, Mind-Body Somatic approaches, and over 30 years of therapeutic work with children and adults. I have a passion and expertise for helping HIGHLY SENSITIVE PEOPLE understand and embrace both the gifts and challenges of their heightened receptivity, that can lead to overwhelm, overstimulation, and other challenges.
I help people CHRONIC PAIN, STRESS OR ANXIETY who have had limited success in seeking help, with powerful leading edge mind- body and neuroscience approaches to heal and decrease symptoms.
Welcome! I know that finding the right therapist or coach can feel confusing or overwhelming. I offer a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your challenges and move towards fully embracing yourself and living the life you desire. My approach brings together Gestalt, Mind-Body Somatic approaches, and over 30 years of therapeutic work with children and adults. I have a passion and expertise for helping HIGHLY SENSITIVE PEOPLE understand and embrace both the gifts and challenges of their heightened receptivity, that can lead to overwhelm, overstimulation, and other challenges.
(347) 407-8692 View (347) 407-8692
Photo of Michael Schonberg, Psychologist in 02446, MA
Michael Schonberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I have experience in treating individuals with anxiety, OCD, depression, mood disorders, chronic pain, misophonia, anger, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Autism Spectrum, tics, nail biting, hair pulling, highly sensitive individuals, and people in the midst of relationship struggles.
Change is hard, but less so with help. I hope I can be your guide through the change process. I am a clinical psychologist trained in CBT. I have a faculty appointment at Harvard Medical School and am on staff in the Department of Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital. I run a private practice on Sunday mornings and have intermittent availability during the rest of the week. I am comfortable providing treatment in an individual or family context, whichever better fits your needs. I am results driven, but also warm and sensitive.
I have experience in treating individuals with anxiety, OCD, depression, mood disorders, chronic pain, misophonia, anger, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Autism Spectrum, tics, nail biting, hair pulling, highly sensitive individuals, and people in the midst of relationship struggles.
Change is hard, but less so with help. I hope I can be your guide through the change process. I am a clinical psychologist trained in CBT. I have a faculty appointment at Harvard Medical School and am on staff in the Department of Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital. I run a private practice on Sunday mornings and have intermittent availability during the rest of the week. I am comfortable providing treatment in an individual or family context, whichever better fits your needs. I am results driven, but also warm and sensitive.
(412) 419-2743 View (412) 419-2743
Photo of Jillian B. Frank, Ph.D., Psychologist in 02446, MA
Jillian B. Frank, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
I am now providing therapy via telehealth only. As a licensed clinical psychologist with over 25 years experience working with individuals/couples, I often see patients who struggle with unsatisfying family and personal relationships, health problems (e.g. infertility, cancer, chronic pain), grief and loss, and trouble with work and career. Change involves both insight and actual changes in one's behavior. My goal is to create a place where we can work safely to explore the origins of problems and rapidly create positive change in one's life. My approach is warm, supportive, and actively focused on bringing about lasting change.
I am now providing therapy via telehealth only. As a licensed clinical psychologist with over 25 years experience working with individuals/couples, I often see patients who struggle with unsatisfying family and personal relationships, health problems (e.g. infertility, cancer, chronic pain), grief and loss, and trouble with work and career. Change involves both insight and actual changes in one's behavior. My goal is to create a place where we can work safely to explore the origins of problems and rapidly create positive change in one's life. My approach is warm, supportive, and actively focused on bringing about lasting change.
(617) 870-0390 View (617) 870-0390
Photo of Wendy Emory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02446, MA
Wendy Emory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to adjust or have experienced a life transition, loss, trauma, illness or caring for someone who is? Perhaps, you're feeling stuck, sensing a need to change as your usual ways of coping don't seem to be working. I'll work collaboratively with you, to access what already exists within you! Maybe, you're wishing to feel more hope, joy, or ease in your life. There are endless possibilities, huh. What are you hoping to transform as you bravely show up to change? Regardless of whatever it may be, your body's innate wisdom may be pivotal in your journey toward restoring a sense of well-being in your life.
Are you struggling to adjust or have experienced a life transition, loss, trauma, illness or caring for someone who is? Perhaps, you're feeling stuck, sensing a need to change as your usual ways of coping don't seem to be working. I'll work collaboratively with you, to access what already exists within you! Maybe, you're wishing to feel more hope, joy, or ease in your life. There are endless possibilities, huh. What are you hoping to transform as you bravely show up to change? Regardless of whatever it may be, your body's innate wisdom may be pivotal in your journey toward restoring a sense of well-being in your life.
(781) 460-6724 View (781) 460-6724
Photo of William Ruhm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02446, MA
William Ruhm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
Waitlist for new clients
I am particularly passionate about offering therapy to activists seeking support nurturing mental health while active in social movements, people living with anxiety, and people living with chronic pain, however I would be honored to support you in your journey toward mental health and wellness, whatever challenges you may be facing.
I offer individual therapy to adults (18 and over) living in Massachusetts. I am currently seeing clients remotely over zoom, as well as in-person office-based and walking therapy. My therapy practice is trauma-informed, anti-racist, and welcoming of people of all gender and sexual identities.
I am particularly passionate about offering therapy to activists seeking support nurturing mental health while active in social movements, people living with anxiety, and people living with chronic pain, however I would be honored to support you in your journey toward mental health and wellness, whatever challenges you may be facing.
I offer individual therapy to adults (18 and over) living in Massachusetts. I am currently seeing clients remotely over zoom, as well as in-person office-based and walking therapy. My therapy practice is trauma-informed, anti-racist, and welcoming of people of all gender and sexual identities.
(617) 766-1487 View (617) 766-1487
Photo of Renana Yanai-Anter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02446, MA
Renana Yanai-Anter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LISW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
It takes courage to reach out for support and begin a healing journey. I believe that the therapeutic relationship can be a source of that healing. I put a lot of emphasis on creating an atmosphere of respect, caring and safety. We will collaborate to understand and help the parts in you that stand in your way to feeling satisfied and happy. My particular areas of experience and interest are: coping with the aftermath of traumatic and painful experiences, life transitions, women's issues, relationships, complicated grief, anxiety, stage fright and creative blocks, depression, medical diagnoses and pain issues, multiculturalism.
It takes courage to reach out for support and begin a healing journey. I believe that the therapeutic relationship can be a source of that healing. I put a lot of emphasis on creating an atmosphere of respect, caring and safety. We will collaborate to understand and help the parts in you that stand in your way to feeling satisfied and happy. My particular areas of experience and interest are: coping with the aftermath of traumatic and painful experiences, life transitions, women's issues, relationships, complicated grief, anxiety, stage fright and creative blocks, depression, medical diagnoses and pain issues, multiculturalism.
(617) 379-0064 View (617) 379-0064
Photo of Paul Reynolds, Psychologist in 02446, MA
Paul Reynolds
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
Welcome. People seek psychotherapy for a variety of reasons, such as relief from anxiety, loneliness, or grief. Others feel stuck or disconnected. Perhaps patterns of unsatisfying relationships or difficulties deepening relationships have emerged. Psychotherapy provides a unique opportunity to explore personal issues in an environment of trust and respect. I appreciate the courage it takes to work through problems. Emotional pain can signal that one is called upon to make changes or understand things in a new light. I am interested in helping others express themselves more openly, feel more connected to others, and enhance capacities for making authentic choices.
Welcome. People seek psychotherapy for a variety of reasons, such as relief from anxiety, loneliness, or grief. Others feel stuck or disconnected. Perhaps patterns of unsatisfying relationships or difficulties deepening relationships have emerged. Psychotherapy provides a unique opportunity to explore personal issues in an environment of trust and respect. I appreciate the courage it takes to work through problems. Emotional pain can signal that one is called upon to make changes or understand things in a new light. I am interested in helping others express themselves more openly, feel more connected to others, and enhance capacities for making authentic choices.
(857) 540-7724 View (857) 540-7724
Photo of Danielle Buckman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 02446, MA
Danielle Buckman
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I am a licensed psychotherapist trained to work with individuals, couples, and families. I have a doctorate in counseling psychology from Boston University. In clinical practice I have worked in a multi-cultural mental health center, the Veteran's Administration, Boston University Student Counseling and private practice helping many clients manage and master the change process. Together, we work toward healing and change. My approach is active and empathic and can take the form of short-term problem solving approach or more in-depth exploration. Clients learn to decrease stress in their lives whether due to anxiety, depression, work, personal relationships or chronic illness.
I am a licensed psychotherapist trained to work with individuals, couples, and families. I have a doctorate in counseling psychology from Boston University. In clinical practice I have worked in a multi-cultural mental health center, the Veteran's Administration, Boston University Student Counseling and private practice helping many clients manage and master the change process. Together, we work toward healing and change. My approach is active and empathic and can take the form of short-term problem solving approach or more in-depth exploration. Clients learn to decrease stress in their lives whether due to anxiety, depression, work, personal relationships or chronic illness.
(617) 237-6141 View (617) 237-6141
Photo of Laura Greve, Psychologist in 02446, MA
Laura Greve
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
I am a clinical health psychologist specializing in treating adults with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, stress, medical issues, mood disorders, and difficulties adjusting to life changes. I specialize in high achieving students and professionals or those in high-pressure careers. I integrate various techniques and perspectives from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, relaxation training, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and supportive therapy to create a tailored treatment for each individual. For more information please visit my website at bostonhealthpsych.com.
I am a clinical health psychologist specializing in treating adults with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, stress, medical issues, mood disorders, and difficulties adjusting to life changes. I specialize in high achieving students and professionals or those in high-pressure careers. I integrate various techniques and perspectives from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, relaxation training, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and supportive therapy to create a tailored treatment for each individual. For more information please visit my website at bostonhealthpsych.com.
(617) 674-1106 View (617) 674-1106
Photo of Center for Anxiety & Related Disorders at Boston U, Psychologist in 02446, MA
Center for Anxiety & Related Disorders at Boston U
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I currently direct and treat patients at the Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders (CARD) at Boston University. We provide evidence-based clinical services - primarily CBT, to individuals of all backgrounds. CBT is a skills based therapy meant to enhance coping strategies for those suffering from emotional difficulties. It focuses on understanding the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to foster positive changes. At CARD, we specialize in helping adults and children address a wide range of anxiety disorders and related challenges such as difficulties with mood, sleep, concentration, and pain.
I currently direct and treat patients at the Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders (CARD) at Boston University. We provide evidence-based clinical services - primarily CBT, to individuals of all backgrounds. CBT is a skills based therapy meant to enhance coping strategies for those suffering from emotional difficulties. It focuses on understanding the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to foster positive changes. At CARD, we specialize in helping adults and children address a wide range of anxiety disorders and related challenges such as difficulties with mood, sleep, concentration, and pain.
(857) 304-0500 View (857) 304-0500
Photo of Kimberlee Dennery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02446, MA
Kimberlee Dennery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
Hello, I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families I specialize in treating anxiety and depression. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. I also enjoy working with teenage and younger clients. I see many people who are going through life transitions. When one is going through grief and loss, education challenges, relationship difficulties, a new family member, pain or illness, it can be particularly difficult to cope and particularly beneficial to be in therapy to work through these issues with an unbiased ear. I also specialize in working with individuals who have struggles with chronic pain.
Hello, I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families I specialize in treating anxiety and depression. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. I also enjoy working with teenage and younger clients. I see many people who are going through life transitions. When one is going through grief and loss, education challenges, relationship difficulties, a new family member, pain or illness, it can be particularly difficult to cope and particularly beneficial to be in therapy to work through these issues with an unbiased ear. I also specialize in working with individuals who have struggles with chronic pain.
(503) 300-5309 View (503) 300-5309
Photo of Boston Behavioral Medicine, LLC, Psychologist in 02446, MA
Boston Behavioral Medicine, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
Behavioral Medicine is an interdisciplinary field that utilizes behavioral health techniques (CBT, relaxation, hypnosis, biofeedback, mindfulness meditation, and others) to treat various medical and behavioral health conditions. It primarily targets the treatment of medical conditions that are exacerbated by stress and other psychological factors, such as: hypertension, diabetes, IBS, migraine headaches, TMJ, skin disorders, sexual disorders, and others. Behavioral Medicine specializes in treating conditions associated with habits and lifestyle, such as: insomnia, obesity, smoking. Behavioral Medicine interventions can be applied to the treatment of common mental health disorders including depression, anxiety disorders, phobias, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD, among others.
Behavioral Medicine is an interdisciplinary field that utilizes behavioral health techniques (CBT, relaxation, hypnosis, biofeedback, mindfulness meditation, and others) to treat various medical and behavioral health conditions. It primarily targets the treatment of medical conditions that are exacerbated by stress and other psychological factors, such as: hypertension, diabetes, IBS, migraine headaches, TMJ, skin disorders, sexual disorders, and others. Behavioral Medicine specializes in treating conditions associated with habits and lifestyle, such as: insomnia, obesity, smoking. Behavioral Medicine interventions can be applied to the treatment of common mental health disorders including depression, anxiety disorders, phobias, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD, among others.
(617) 934-8550 View (617) 934-8550
Photo of Amy Goldman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02446, MA
Amy Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
When starting therapy, it is crucial to choose a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. I strive to help you feel cared for and supported as you navigate challenging issues and aim to lead a more fulfilling life. My approach is relational, interactive and warm. My priority is to create an environment in which you feel understood, empowered and able to grow. We will work as a team to help you achieve your goals. My style of therapy is eclectic and drawn from more than 40 years of clinical practice at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and many years teaching at Harvard Medical School.
When starting therapy, it is crucial to choose a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. I strive to help you feel cared for and supported as you navigate challenging issues and aim to lead a more fulfilling life. My approach is relational, interactive and warm. My priority is to create an environment in which you feel understood, empowered and able to grow. We will work as a team to help you achieve your goals. My style of therapy is eclectic and drawn from more than 40 years of clinical practice at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and many years teaching at Harvard Medical School.
(617) 766-3704 View (617) 766-3704
Photo of Heidi W. Thermenos, Psychologist in 02446, MA
Heidi W. Thermenos
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
ACCEPTING NEW REFERRALS. 20 Years experience at Harvard Medical School/ synthesis of psychodynamic, DBT, CBT, behavioral therapy. See www.drheidithermenos.com I have synthesized into a coherent therapy style what I feel are the most effective elements of psychodynamic, humanistic and behavioral therapies. My work in cognitive neuroscience (studying the effects of cognitive remediation on the brain) also influences the work. I tailor my approach based on your goals, symptoms, cognitive style and phase of the therapy.
ACCEPTING NEW REFERRALS. 20 Years experience at Harvard Medical School/ synthesis of psychodynamic, DBT, CBT, behavioral therapy. See www.drheidithermenos.com I have synthesized into a coherent therapy style what I feel are the most effective elements of psychodynamic, humanistic and behavioral therapies. My work in cognitive neuroscience (studying the effects of cognitive remediation on the brain) also influences the work. I tailor my approach based on your goals, symptoms, cognitive style and phase of the therapy.
(617) 463-9207 View (617) 463-9207
Photo of Dignity Weight Center in 02446, MA
Dignity Weight Center
MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients; Tele-Health; We take most major insurances... We provide one-on-one compassionate, whole-person care and longitudinal clinical alliances for persons struggling with weight gain. We aim for precision targeting of root causes of obesity, and provide a comprehensive medical + psychosocial diagnostic and treatment plan, with Harvard Medical School trained clinical advice, and evidence-based scientific interventions, and a personalized treatment plan, as we honor your full dignity and accompany you in solidarity, care, and partnership through your weight loss journey with us.
Accepting New Patients; Tele-Health; We take most major insurances... We provide one-on-one compassionate, whole-person care and longitudinal clinical alliances for persons struggling with weight gain. We aim for precision targeting of root causes of obesity, and provide a comprehensive medical + psychosocial diagnostic and treatment plan, with Harvard Medical School trained clinical advice, and evidence-based scientific interventions, and a personalized treatment plan, as we honor your full dignity and accompany you in solidarity, care, and partnership through your weight loss journey with us.
View
Photo of Katharine Thomson, Psychologist in 02446, MA
Katharine Thomson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
In addition to my faculty and hospital-based roles, I have a private practice for children, adolescents, and adults. I am trained in evidence-based approaches, including CBT and DBT, and treat a range of psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, OCD, self-injury, trauma, somatic symptoms, and eating disorders (including ARFID). I welcome children/teens, couples, parents, and families from all backgrounds and strive for culturally responsive and attuned care. My interventions include mindfulness (relaxation and awareness) and focus on reducing distress and improving relationships, all delivered with warmth and humor.
In addition to my faculty and hospital-based roles, I have a private practice for children, adolescents, and adults. I am trained in evidence-based approaches, including CBT and DBT, and treat a range of psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, OCD, self-injury, trauma, somatic symptoms, and eating disorders (including ARFID). I welcome children/teens, couples, parents, and families from all backgrounds and strive for culturally responsive and attuned care. My interventions include mindfulness (relaxation and awareness) and focus on reducing distress and improving relationships, all delivered with warmth and humor.
(617) 600-5984 View (617) 600-5984
Photo of Miriam Braude, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02446, MA
Miriam Braude
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
Finding someone you feel comfortable talking with is important when searching for a good therapist. My clients have described me as genuine and easy to talk to about life challenges. I think of myself as a coach or guide who helps you make connections, learn new ways to manage life and enhance your own unique strengths. My clients would describe my therapeutic style as supportive, nurturing, authentic, active, validating, and insight-building.
Finding someone you feel comfortable talking with is important when searching for a good therapist. My clients have described me as genuine and easy to talk to about life challenges. I think of myself as a coach or guide who helps you make connections, learn new ways to manage life and enhance your own unique strengths. My clients would describe my therapeutic style as supportive, nurturing, authentic, active, validating, and insight-building.
(617) 858-6547 View (617) 858-6547
Photo of Olga I. Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02446, MA
Olga I. Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
As a mental health care professional, I work with individuals, couples and families in a safe and supportive environment. Difficulties such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, low self-esteem and ADHD are approached with professionalism, compassion and spirituality. I have worked with diverse populations, having practiced at a leading Boston area hospital for the past 16 years. I believe in people's ability to achieve a healthy and positive life experience, repair relationships and improve their quality of life. You can expect me to support you, listen attentively, and help you establish goals leading to a fulfilling life.
As a mental health care professional, I work with individuals, couples and families in a safe and supportive environment. Difficulties such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, low self-esteem and ADHD are approached with professionalism, compassion and spirituality. I have worked with diverse populations, having practiced at a leading Boston area hospital for the past 16 years. I believe in people's ability to achieve a healthy and positive life experience, repair relationships and improve their quality of life. You can expect me to support you, listen attentively, and help you establish goals leading to a fulfilling life.
(617) 860-2357 View (617) 860-2357
Photo of Rachel Weiss, Psychologist in 02446, MA
Rachel Weiss
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
I am a clinical psychologist with faculty/staff appointments at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School. I believe that therapy should be collaborative, supportive, and warm, while also facilitating real change in clients' lives. You may benefit from working with me if you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, angry, or lonely; or struggling with low self-esteem or lack of confidence. I can assist you in better managing relationship or family conflict, work- or school-related stress, parenting or caregiver stress, grief/loss, and major transitions.
I am a clinical psychologist with faculty/staff appointments at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School. I believe that therapy should be collaborative, supportive, and warm, while also facilitating real change in clients' lives. You may benefit from working with me if you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, angry, or lonely; or struggling with low self-esteem or lack of confidence. I can assist you in better managing relationship or family conflict, work- or school-related stress, parenting or caregiver stress, grief/loss, and major transitions.
(617) 440-5241 View (617) 440-5241
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.