Chronic Pain Therapists in 28803

Photo of Lottie Cooper, LPC Intern in 28803, NC
Lottie Cooper
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
Are you feeling stuck and want a breakthrough? I can facilitate releasing your physical, emotional, spiritual pain that is stored in the body. Are you ready to commit to yourself ? I am committed to supporting you in creating a joyful & fulfilling life. I use many modalities to individualize sessions to meet your needs to heal your pain mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Learn sensitive ways of thinking and communicating to support your relationships, create new perspectives, inner wisdom, and self-love, for a more fulfilling life. Learn skills to easily release stress, and explorations to track your progress.
Are you feeling stuck and want a breakthrough? I can facilitate releasing your physical, emotional, spiritual pain that is stored in the body. Are you ready to commit to yourself ? I am committed to supporting you in creating a joyful & fulfilling life. I use many modalities to individualize sessions to meet your needs to heal your pain mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Learn sensitive ways of thinking and communicating to support your relationships, create new perspectives, inner wisdom, and self-love, for a more fulfilling life. Learn skills to easily release stress, and explorations to track your progress.
(828) 944-4105 View (828) 944-4105
Photo of Vanessa Guerrero, LCMHC Associate in 28803, NC
Vanessa Guerrero
LCMHC Associate, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
I work primarily with female adolescents and young adults with a history of chronic illness, trauma, perfectionism, depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders.
Currently Accepting Clients ( Telehealth Only)-My name is Vanessa Guerero and I am a clinical therapist with Winter to Spring Wellness. Prior to being in Asheville for almost a decade, I originally hail from Miami, Fl. I am a proud daughter of Cuban immigrants and a first-generation college student. As a teen I had my own battles with physical and mental wellness, difficulties with acculturation as well as struggled with cultural stigma in regard to mental health care. Through my own work, I have been able to find healing and am now honored to support others who struggle with their own mental wellness and similar issues.
I work primarily with female adolescents and young adults with a history of chronic illness, trauma, perfectionism, depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders.
Currently Accepting Clients ( Telehealth Only)-My name is Vanessa Guerero and I am a clinical therapist with Winter to Spring Wellness. Prior to being in Asheville for almost a decade, I originally hail from Miami, Fl. I am a proud daughter of Cuban immigrants and a first-generation college student. As a teen I had my own battles with physical and mental wellness, difficulties with acculturation as well as struggled with cultural stigma in regard to mental health care. Through my own work, I have been able to find healing and am now honored to support others who struggle with their own mental wellness and similar issues.
(828) 382-8550 View (828) 382-8550
Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in 28803, NC
Lisa Lavelle Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
(828) 360-8820 View (828) 360-8820
Photo of Ashley Merchant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28803, NC
Ashley Merchant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
We live in a world quickly changing with many demands and stressors. Therapy is like working out at a gym. Instead, it is building inner strength and emotional fitness. Traumas or events can happen in life leading to a dysregulated nervous system. We can experience the loss of a job, partner, or identity; the loss of a loved one or pet; disease, illness, financial instability; relationship or family issues, or housing crisis that spin our worlds upside down. Maybe it is low self-worth, stress, or feeling stuck in life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to be a supportive ally for your growth.
We live in a world quickly changing with many demands and stressors. Therapy is like working out at a gym. Instead, it is building inner strength and emotional fitness. Traumas or events can happen in life leading to a dysregulated nervous system. We can experience the loss of a job, partner, or identity; the loss of a loved one or pet; disease, illness, financial instability; relationship or family issues, or housing crisis that spin our worlds upside down. Maybe it is low self-worth, stress, or feeling stuck in life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to be a supportive ally for your growth.
(828) 622-4095 View (828) 622-4095
Photo of Jennifer Beeghly, Psychologist in 28803, NC
Jennifer Beeghly
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
I have specialized expertise in providing evidenced-based therapy to treat PTSD, adjustment from military service, relationship dissatisfaction, couple therapy, insomnia, pain, anxiety, somatic concerns, suicidality, and depression.
I am a licensed doctoral level clinical psychologist who provides individual and couple therapy. My approach is individualized based on the specific needs and goals of each client or couple and involves providing warmth and genuineness. My role is to assist you in gaining insight and perspective into the obstacles that are limiting you from living the life that you desire using a supportive and non-judgmental style that will facilitate personal exploration.
I have specialized expertise in providing evidenced-based therapy to treat PTSD, adjustment from military service, relationship dissatisfaction, couple therapy, insomnia, pain, anxiety, somatic concerns, suicidality, and depression.
I am a licensed doctoral level clinical psychologist who provides individual and couple therapy. My approach is individualized based on the specific needs and goals of each client or couple and involves providing warmth and genuineness. My role is to assist you in gaining insight and perspective into the obstacles that are limiting you from living the life that you desire using a supportive and non-judgmental style that will facilitate personal exploration.
(828) 528-3413 View (828) 528-3413
Photo of Melissa Middlebrook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28803, NC
Melissa Middlebrook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MPH, RYT200
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
Waitlist for new clients
None of us are immune to life's challenges and we also don't come with instructions on how to navigate these. We often carry our past experiences and stress without realizing it— to the point where we feel it not only emotionally, but also in our physical bodies. Research confirms the mind and body aren’t so separate after all, but more of an interdependent unit greatly influencing one another. Past traumas, anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, chronic illness, difficult life transition, caught in the cycles of shame + self criticism; these are all labels and struggles many of us identify with at some point, but they don't define us.
None of us are immune to life's challenges and we also don't come with instructions on how to navigate these. We often carry our past experiences and stress without realizing it— to the point where we feel it not only emotionally, but also in our physical bodies. Research confirms the mind and body aren’t so separate after all, but more of an interdependent unit greatly influencing one another. Past traumas, anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, chronic illness, difficult life transition, caught in the cycles of shame + self criticism; these are all labels and struggles many of us identify with at some point, but they don't define us.
(828) 818-9110 View (828) 818-9110
Photo of Kristin Mignogna, Counselor in 28803, NC
Kristin Mignogna
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
I help clients work through problems related to relational issues, life transitions, chronic pain, PTSD/trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, and borderline traits.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counseling Associate who strives to create a space of trust and safety in which clients can heal, progress, and develop self-compassion. I have experience helping clients with a broad range of presenting concerns, with an educational focus on trauma. I cater my therapeutic techniques to each individual client's needs, drawing most heavily from Person-Centered (approaching clients as equal collaborators, with empathy and non-judgement), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (focusing on thought patterns), and Gestalt Therapy (focusing on emotional and somatic experiences).
I help clients work through problems related to relational issues, life transitions, chronic pain, PTSD/trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, and borderline traits.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counseling Associate who strives to create a space of trust and safety in which clients can heal, progress, and develop self-compassion. I have experience helping clients with a broad range of presenting concerns, with an educational focus on trauma. I cater my therapeutic techniques to each individual client's needs, drawing most heavily from Person-Centered (approaching clients as equal collaborators, with empathy and non-judgement), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (focusing on thought patterns), and Gestalt Therapy (focusing on emotional and somatic experiences).
(828) 457-7143 View (828) 457-7143
Photo of Leslie Mulligan, Counselor in 28803, NC
Leslie Mulligan
Counselor, MS, EdS, LCPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Anxiety; depression; grief; pain; mood disorientation, relationship, sleep and life changes; and work/life balance improve when honest and clear understanding is present and supported to change.
I am a creative humanist. As an experiential psychotherapist, I join with you in your life-in-process to support your self-awareness, healing, and growth. I engage with your whole person - body, mind, being - your unique "me". Life change, moods, relationships, work, health, recovery are my focus. Rather than lean into pathology, I value your intelligence, ways of expression, learning and strategies. Using facts, metaphor, lived experience, humor, honesty you'll see your own best way through. I tailor my tools to your person/couple/family's needs. You gain objective and compassionate insights, and new tools for thriving.
Anxiety; depression; grief; pain; mood disorientation, relationship, sleep and life changes; and work/life balance improve when honest and clear understanding is present and supported to change.
I am a creative humanist. As an experiential psychotherapist, I join with you in your life-in-process to support your self-awareness, healing, and growth. I engage with your whole person - body, mind, being - your unique "me". Life change, moods, relationships, work, health, recovery are my focus. Rather than lean into pathology, I value your intelligence, ways of expression, learning and strategies. Using facts, metaphor, lived experience, humor, honesty you'll see your own best way through. I tailor my tools to your person/couple/family's needs. You gain objective and compassionate insights, and new tools for thriving.
(207) 843-9672 View (207) 843-9672
Photo of John Magee, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 28803, NC
John Magee
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
I believe that most people have the answers within themselves to work through their own problems - my role is to guide you. I have experience helping people who are struggling with anxiety and depression, or who are numbing out through substance use. My clients are often working through life transitions and other challenging situations, such as relationship issues, grief, or chronic pain. Perhaps you have not been handling your emotions very well. You may even feel hopeless, or unsure how to articulate what you are feeling. Therapy is a collaborative journey to a more healthy state of mind.
I believe that most people have the answers within themselves to work through their own problems - my role is to guide you. I have experience helping people who are struggling with anxiety and depression, or who are numbing out through substance use. My clients are often working through life transitions and other challenging situations, such as relationship issues, grief, or chronic pain. Perhaps you have not been handling your emotions very well. You may even feel hopeless, or unsure how to articulate what you are feeling. Therapy is a collaborative journey to a more healthy state of mind.
(828) 547-4272 View (828) 547-4272
Photo of Denise V Weegar, Psychological Associate in 28803, NC
Denise V Weegar
Psychological Associate, MA, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
Waitlist for new clients
There are times in life when things can feel incredibly hard. Lingering sadness and anxiety can threaten to overwhelm us. Maybe it has been a long time since you remember feeling happy. Trauma and early adversity can take root in our bodies and impact every area of our life. We may also be relying on unhealthy behaviors to cope with our deep unease. If you find yourself feeling stuck in old patterns and are wanting to reclaim more happiness in your life, then therapy can help you find the change you are seeking. My intention is to create a safe, compassionate space to support your journey toward living your best life.
There are times in life when things can feel incredibly hard. Lingering sadness and anxiety can threaten to overwhelm us. Maybe it has been a long time since you remember feeling happy. Trauma and early adversity can take root in our bodies and impact every area of our life. We may also be relying on unhealthy behaviors to cope with our deep unease. If you find yourself feeling stuck in old patterns and are wanting to reclaim more happiness in your life, then therapy can help you find the change you are seeking. My intention is to create a safe, compassionate space to support your journey toward living your best life.
(828) 585-6780 View (828) 585-6780
Photo of Elizabeth R Allen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in 28803, NC
Elizabeth R Allen, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
I focus primarily on work with adolescents experiencing anxiety and depression or struggling with self-esteem as well as their families who are experiencing life transitions, parenting difficulties, and relationship concerns.
I focus primarily on work with adolescents experiencing anxiety and depression or struggling with self-esteem as well as their families who are experiencing life transitions, parenting difficulties, and relationship concerns.
(828) 408-0527 View (828) 408-0527
Photo of Carol R Cole, Marriage & Family Therapist in 28803, NC
Carol R Cole
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
I love working with people who are willing to look at life from a holistic perspective. This is especially powerful in transforming not only health issues but also relationship issues. My specialty is helping people who have done good work on themselves previously and now need another perspective to open them up for further growth. I am an expert in the field of Mind-Body-Spirit counseling with over 30 years experience with special emphasis on environmental and autoimmune illnesses.
I love working with people who are willing to look at life from a holistic perspective. This is especially powerful in transforming not only health issues but also relationship issues. My specialty is helping people who have done good work on themselves previously and now need another perspective to open them up for further growth. I am an expert in the field of Mind-Body-Spirit counseling with over 30 years experience with special emphasis on environmental and autoimmune illnesses.
(972) 360-9685 View (972) 360-9685
Photo of Josh Stone, Counselor in 28803, NC
Josh Stone
Counselor, MEd , LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
There is no need to struggle alone, and yet we often do. Our suffering may appear in many different forms, from depression and anxiety, to relationship issues, substance use and more. It’s time to shed this idea that “we have to have it all together” and allow ourselves be human for a moment. In this honest space, my clients tend to become more in touch with their authentic selves and establish beliefs, values, narratives and take steps towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
There is no need to struggle alone, and yet we often do. Our suffering may appear in many different forms, from depression and anxiety, to relationship issues, substance use and more. It’s time to shed this idea that “we have to have it all together” and allow ourselves be human for a moment. In this honest space, my clients tend to become more in touch with their authentic selves and establish beliefs, values, narratives and take steps towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(828) 800-9401 View (828) 800-9401
Photo of John S Caprell, Licensed Professional Counselor in 28803, NC
John S Caprell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
I view therapy as an ongoing conversation in which the client receives support and feedback that family and friends may not be able to give. I enjoy working with people who are willing to do the work to make peace with questions and challenges that don't always have easy answers. I support individuals who desire assistance with managing a variety of concerns such as anxiety, emotional eating, substance use or depression. Additionally I am EMDR trained. I also offer couples counseling from an attachment perspective for both “traditional” and LGBT+ relationships.
I view therapy as an ongoing conversation in which the client receives support and feedback that family and friends may not be able to give. I enjoy working with people who are willing to do the work to make peace with questions and challenges that don't always have easy answers. I support individuals who desire assistance with managing a variety of concerns such as anxiety, emotional eating, substance use or depression. Additionally I am EMDR trained. I also offer couples counseling from an attachment perspective for both “traditional” and LGBT+ relationships.
(828) 357-4163 View (828) 357-4163
Photo of Taylor Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28803, NC
Taylor Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Hi there, my name is Taylor. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate. I graduated from East Tennessee State University with a BSW and MSW. Prior my transition to the mental health field in 2020, I gained experience as a social worker in the medical field working with all age groups and populations. In the most recent years, I worked as an Employee Assistance Program Therapist and a Inpatient Psychiatric Social Worker (present).
Hi there, my name is Taylor. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate. I graduated from East Tennessee State University with a BSW and MSW. Prior my transition to the mental health field in 2020, I gained experience as a social worker in the medical field working with all age groups and populations. In the most recent years, I worked as an Employee Assistance Program Therapist and a Inpatient Psychiatric Social Worker (present).
(828) 383-9615 View (828) 383-9615
Photo of Perry Lavin, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in 28803, NC
Perry Lavin
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
All humans are equipped with the capacity for healing and transformation. I believe that everyone deserves the chance to undergo this process of change. Everyone deserves to create a life that is worth living and is full of meaning. Unfortunately, we are often left feeing disconnected, detached, depressed, or anxious. As a clinician, I am passionate about helping change these patterns. It is a gift to be with people as they find deeper meaning and a more fulfilling life. I love going deep with people so that we may find the roots of your problem and create the change that leads to a truer, more vital version of yourself.
All humans are equipped with the capacity for healing and transformation. I believe that everyone deserves the chance to undergo this process of change. Everyone deserves to create a life that is worth living and is full of meaning. Unfortunately, we are often left feeing disconnected, detached, depressed, or anxious. As a clinician, I am passionate about helping change these patterns. It is a gift to be with people as they find deeper meaning and a more fulfilling life. I love going deep with people so that we may find the roots of your problem and create the change that leads to a truer, more vital version of yourself.
(828) 332-5403 View (828) 332-5403
Photo of Dr. Liz E. Slonena, Psychologist in 28803, NC
Dr. Liz E. Slonena
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP, MSCP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Exhausted by your loud inner critic? Overwhelmed by your neverending to-do list? Despite looking like you have your sh!t together, internally you may feel like a scattered fraud cosplaying as a human. Trying to be the perfect friend, perfect professional, or perfect partner all at once is exhausting. Maybe there's a deeper wound that hasn't healed yet. Perhaps you dream of feeling fulfilled, calm, & confident. To say "no" and actually mean it. To stop playing small & launch that creative idea. If you want to stress less & live authentically without fear or guilt, I’d love to help you step into your power.
Exhausted by your loud inner critic? Overwhelmed by your neverending to-do list? Despite looking like you have your sh!t together, internally you may feel like a scattered fraud cosplaying as a human. Trying to be the perfect friend, perfect professional, or perfect partner all at once is exhausting. Maybe there's a deeper wound that hasn't healed yet. Perhaps you dream of feeling fulfilled, calm, & confident. To say "no" and actually mean it. To stop playing small & launch that creative idea. If you want to stress less & live authentically without fear or guilt, I’d love to help you step into your power.
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Photo of Kristin Mamrack, Counselor in 28803, NC
Kristin Mamrack
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
You're worried and irritable, thinking of worst-case scenarios for everything. Are you constantly questioning yourself? Or afraid if you drop your guard, you'll lose control of yourself? You're probably exhausted and worry it will always be like this. You need a change. Constant stress and fear is so overwhelming and can have a chilling effect both on your relationship with others and with yourself. You want to be able to enjoy your life, without worrying about what comes next. You want to let go of the struggle for perfection. You deserve some peace. I can help you get there.
You're worried and irritable, thinking of worst-case scenarios for everything. Are you constantly questioning yourself? Or afraid if you drop your guard, you'll lose control of yourself? You're probably exhausted and worry it will always be like this. You need a change. Constant stress and fear is so overwhelming and can have a chilling effect both on your relationship with others and with yourself. You want to be able to enjoy your life, without worrying about what comes next. You want to let go of the struggle for perfection. You deserve some peace. I can help you get there.
(828) 301-4110 View (828) 301-4110
Photo of Chris Gantt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28803, NC
Chris Gantt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am here to help people who feel stuck in anxiety and depression to find their way through these challenging emotions to a sense of ease in a more authentic and satisfying relationship with life and themselves. My holistic practice is rooted in building a safe, supportive relationship and trusting your inner wisdom as we work side by side exploring life's challenges. Working together we'll discover your unique needs and strengths in developing our goals for treatment. I am committed to empathy and open-mindedness while utilizing therapeutic techniques with proven effectiveness.
I am here to help people who feel stuck in anxiety and depression to find their way through these challenging emotions to a sense of ease in a more authentic and satisfying relationship with life and themselves. My holistic practice is rooted in building a safe, supportive relationship and trusting your inner wisdom as we work side by side exploring life's challenges. Working together we'll discover your unique needs and strengths in developing our goals for treatment. I am committed to empathy and open-mindedness while utilizing therapeutic techniques with proven effectiveness.
(828) 232-8089 View (828) 232-8089
Photo of Marie Romeo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28803, NC
Marie Romeo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
I believe that we are all on a similar journey in life....to be fully connected and authentic people, and to integrate the different parts of ourselves so that we can experience love and joy and meaningful relationships. In our work together it is my hope that we can explore the different parts of yourself that keeps you from these connections and explore what it means to feel safe. Through exploring shame and early childhood trauma, depression and anxiety, as well as body love and acceptance, we can work together to support a deepening of your self-awareness and find compassion and connection to heal and nurture your deepest self.
I believe that we are all on a similar journey in life....to be fully connected and authentic people, and to integrate the different parts of ourselves so that we can experience love and joy and meaningful relationships. In our work together it is my hope that we can explore the different parts of yourself that keeps you from these connections and explore what it means to feel safe. Through exploring shame and early childhood trauma, depression and anxiety, as well as body love and acceptance, we can work together to support a deepening of your self-awareness and find compassion and connection to heal and nurture your deepest self.
(828) 392-5148 View (828) 392-5148
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.