Chronic Pain Therapists in 80209
Meghan Stetson
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC, MA, MEd, RYT-500
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
Living with chronic illness and/or chronic pain can be an invisible, isolating, and scary experience. On top of that, the way that our society is structured has all but left these areas out of the realm of psychotherapy and leaves these experiences to the field of medicine alone. If you live with chronic illness or chronic pain, you know firsthand how lacking this model is. In my therapy practice I strive to create space for all aspects of your human experience, while working with you towards the ability to feel safe in your body, access hope and a healthy sense of self, and to transform your suffering into meaning.
Living with chronic illness and/or chronic pain can be an invisible, isolating, and scary experience. On top of that, the way that our society is structured has all but left these areas out of the realm of psychotherapy and leaves these experiences to the field of medicine alone. If you live with chronic illness or chronic pain, you know firsthand how lacking this model is. In my therapy practice I strive to create space for all aspects of your human experience, while working with you towards the ability to feel safe in your body, access hope and a healthy sense of self, and to transform your suffering into meaning.
Charles J Horowitz
Counselor, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
I have counseled for 28 years with a wide variety of people including those with physical illnesses, disabilities & chronic pain, couples, CEO's, the unemployed, teachers, athletes, writers and returning veterans.
"I have not met a more wholehearted counselor than Dr. Horowitz in 40 years of working with so many," wrote author Stephen Levine. Your courageous reach for help is the first, hardest step. I have been through a number of disasters, incl. 2 large fires, 1 earthquake, deaths & my sister's psych hospitalization, & that's helping me to help folks adjust to CVIDS-19. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, anger, grief, or pain, you can be helped via research-based tools. We'll first revisit your positive attributes: your accomplishments, talents, & passions are fuel for growth & change. We humans can re-learn, thankfully.
I have counseled for 28 years with a wide variety of people including those with physical illnesses, disabilities & chronic pain, couples, CEO's, the unemployed, teachers, athletes, writers and returning veterans.
"I have not met a more wholehearted counselor than Dr. Horowitz in 40 years of working with so many," wrote author Stephen Levine. Your courageous reach for help is the first, hardest step. I have been through a number of disasters, incl. 2 large fires, 1 earthquake, deaths & my sister's psych hospitalization, & that's helping me to help folks adjust to CVIDS-19. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, anger, grief, or pain, you can be helped via research-based tools. We'll first revisit your positive attributes: your accomplishments, talents, & passions are fuel for growth & change. We humans can re-learn, thankfully.
Mita M Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, LMFT, LAC, BCTHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209 (Online Only)
Do you feel pain? Emotional and psychological pain are as damaging to a person as physical pain. And, avoiding pain through unhealthy distractions never works. The roller coaster ride associated with trauma can be very overwhelming – leading to feelings of pain. Drugs and behavioral addictions, risky behaviors, and unhealthy thinking only act as a temporary Band-Aid – they are not the solution to the difficulties and pain you are facing.
Do you feel pain? Emotional and psychological pain are as damaging to a person as physical pain. And, avoiding pain through unhealthy distractions never works. The roller coaster ride associated with trauma can be very overwhelming – leading to feelings of pain. Drugs and behavioral addictions, risky behaviors, and unhealthy thinking only act as a temporary Band-Aid – they are not the solution to the difficulties and pain you are facing.
Alex Lengerich
Psychologist, PhD, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
My areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, insomnia, substance use, trauma, chronic pain, and behavioral health changes.
Life can be difficult at times. As a licensed psychologist I work collaboratively with my clients to address their individual needs. We work together with an overall goal of attaining balance and improvement by developing insight, self-awareness, coping skills, and stress management strategies. I work to create a safe and supportive environment for individuals to increase their self-development and quality of life while improving their ability to cope with the stresses of life.
My areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, insomnia, substance use, trauma, chronic pain, and behavioral health changes.
Life can be difficult at times. As a licensed psychologist I work collaboratively with my clients to address their individual needs. We work together with an overall goal of attaining balance and improvement by developing insight, self-awareness, coping skills, and stress management strategies. I work to create a safe and supportive environment for individuals to increase their self-development and quality of life while improving their ability to cope with the stresses of life.
Maggie McDanal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209 (Online Only)
You are NOT crazy! The part of your brain concerned with survival is likely feeling frantic, causing your logical self to go offline and your emotional self to be dysregulated. Are your old triggers and dysfunctional coping responses intensifying? Trauma, loss, change, conflict, and oppression can make you feel hopeless, lonely, anxious, depressed, and distrusting of you. You don't have to be defined by your past; you can transform your life by overcoming obstacles that keep you stuck and in pain. “Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it.” Rumi
You are NOT crazy! The part of your brain concerned with survival is likely feeling frantic, causing your logical self to go offline and your emotional self to be dysregulated. Are your old triggers and dysfunctional coping responses intensifying? Trauma, loss, change, conflict, and oppression can make you feel hopeless, lonely, anxious, depressed, and distrusting of you. You don't have to be defined by your past; you can transform your life by overcoming obstacles that keep you stuck and in pain. “Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it.” Rumi
Cindy DaRugna
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
By virtue of exploring this site and seeking out a therapist or coach, you are already opening to a path towards reaching your goals. In fact, you may consider visualizing your intention, be it healing from pain or trauma (physical or emotional), anxiety, depression, coping with grief/loss, improving a relationship, adjusting through a transition, managing work/life stress, exploring a meaningful purpose and direction in your life, exploring your spiritual life, manifesting your dreams, or whatever may be motivating you at this time.
By virtue of exploring this site and seeking out a therapist or coach, you are already opening to a path towards reaching your goals. In fact, you may consider visualizing your intention, be it healing from pain or trauma (physical or emotional), anxiety, depression, coping with grief/loss, improving a relationship, adjusting through a transition, managing work/life stress, exploring a meaningful purpose and direction in your life, exploring your spiritual life, manifesting your dreams, or whatever may be motivating you at this time.
Polaris Partners Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
Specialties include: depression, anxiety, addictions, chronic pain, PTSD, grief & loss, LGBTQ, mood disorders, family conflict, dual diagnosis, neurofeedback, EMDR and healing from trauma, abuse, and neglect.
Currently accepting new telehealth clients, Northern CO, Denver, Western Slope (CCHA, COAccess, RMHP) We at Polaris Partners help people chart a course to their full potential. Our staff has a breadth of training and expertise to help clients navigate life's obstacles and we build strong relationships to reach clients and connect them with sources of support and strength. We strive to be the community's first choice in collaborating with clients and their communities to help clients get their bearings and return to their true path. We look forward to partnering with you in the next steps of your journey toward optimum mental health.
Specialties include: depression, anxiety, addictions, chronic pain, PTSD, grief & loss, LGBTQ, mood disorders, family conflict, dual diagnosis, neurofeedback, EMDR and healing from trauma, abuse, and neglect.
Currently accepting new telehealth clients, Northern CO, Denver, Western Slope (CCHA, COAccess, RMHP) We at Polaris Partners help people chart a course to their full potential. Our staff has a breadth of training and expertise to help clients navigate life's obstacles and we build strong relationships to reach clients and connect them with sources of support and strength. We strive to be the community's first choice in collaborating with clients and their communities to help clients get their bearings and return to their true path. We look forward to partnering with you in the next steps of your journey toward optimum mental health.
Annie Vail
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that beyond the struggle and pain of life is an innate wisdom that guides each person to their wholeness.
I believe in your capacity to find the healing you seek and create the life you envision. Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression, grieving the death of a loved one or a painful breakup, struggle with belonging, or just feel stuck and know that you are ready to do something about it. Do you want more intimacy, connection, and joy in your relationships? Let me help you uncover unconscious patterns and beliefs and heal from old wounds that may be keeping you from living from your best self. Together we can bring more love, capacity, skill, and presence into your relationships.
I believe that beyond the struggle and pain of life is an innate wisdom that guides each person to their wholeness.
I believe in your capacity to find the healing you seek and create the life you envision. Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression, grieving the death of a loved one or a painful breakup, struggle with belonging, or just feel stuck and know that you are ready to do something about it. Do you want more intimacy, connection, and joy in your relationships? Let me help you uncover unconscious patterns and beliefs and heal from old wounds that may be keeping you from living from your best self. Together we can bring more love, capacity, skill, and presence into your relationships.
InnerWorkings
Counselor, PhD, ND, APRN, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
I work with clients of all ages and backgrounds addressing self-esteem, chronic illness, DEI, relationships, mental health, stress, anger, TBI, and life challenges.
Have you ever wondered how an holistic approach to counseling could help you change how you think about and live your life or improve your health? Consider a therapist who uses techniques tailored to specifically meet your needs with strategies for coping and growth to help you thrive. Sometimes we encounter challenging experiences that interfere with our personal growth, well-being, and happiness without adequate skills to maintain balance. If you are looking for a caring and engaged evidence-based treatment approach and skill building to navigate your world, call for a free consultation today.
I work with clients of all ages and backgrounds addressing self-esteem, chronic illness, DEI, relationships, mental health, stress, anger, TBI, and life challenges.
Have you ever wondered how an holistic approach to counseling could help you change how you think about and live your life or improve your health? Consider a therapist who uses techniques tailored to specifically meet your needs with strategies for coping and growth to help you thrive. Sometimes we encounter challenging experiences that interfere with our personal growth, well-being, and happiness without adequate skills to maintain balance. If you are looking for a caring and engaged evidence-based treatment approach and skill building to navigate your world, call for a free consultation today.
Kristen Beau Howard
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
My clinical work focuses on mind-body awareness (Mindfulness) and interconnection, while also emphasizing mental health wellness not mental illness.
If you are ready to rekindle the fire between you and your partner, or... If you are ready to whittle the last chips of wood to reveal the masterpiece of you, then you are in the right place. The relationship between client and therapist is important. I work to meet clients where they are, paying special attention to creativity and positive human potential. I seek to uncover and establish an empathic, trusting, and comprehensive relationship with each of my clients providing the context for understanding the challenges and difficulties that brings them into therapy.
My clinical work focuses on mind-body awareness (Mindfulness) and interconnection, while also emphasizing mental health wellness not mental illness.
If you are ready to rekindle the fire between you and your partner, or... If you are ready to whittle the last chips of wood to reveal the masterpiece of you, then you are in the right place. The relationship between client and therapist is important. I work to meet clients where they are, paying special attention to creativity and positive human potential. I seek to uncover and establish an empathic, trusting, and comprehensive relationship with each of my clients providing the context for understanding the challenges and difficulties that brings them into therapy.
Jeni Ambrose
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209 (Online Only)
My practice is grounded in treating stress, trauma, and PTSD. Supporting a broad range of clients impacted by the debilitating effects of these conditions - abuse, abandonment, loss, physical injury, chronic illness, terminal illness, chronic pain, obesity, work-related stress, relationship issues, etc. I have a uniquely-effective approach for assisting those impacted by sexual trauma. It is my professional passion and commitment to use the most effective and rapid treatment methods available to help clients achieve the highest degree of personal liberation and authenticity. I assist clients from the comfort and convenience of their own home via web video (Skype, FaceTime) and by phone.
My practice is grounded in treating stress, trauma, and PTSD. Supporting a broad range of clients impacted by the debilitating effects of these conditions - abuse, abandonment, loss, physical injury, chronic illness, terminal illness, chronic pain, obesity, work-related stress, relationship issues, etc. I have a uniquely-effective approach for assisting those impacted by sexual trauma. It is my professional passion and commitment to use the most effective and rapid treatment methods available to help clients achieve the highest degree of personal liberation and authenticity. I assist clients from the comfort and convenience of their own home via web video (Skype, FaceTime) and by phone.
15 Second Videos
Meghan Stetson
Martha Johnson
Alison C Heiser
Michelle Stromme - Experienced Sex Therapist
Metro Denver Hypnotherapy and Family Therapy
Talia R. Watrous Online Sex Therapy
Dr. Ezzat Moghazy - Hypnotherapist
Hayley Roberts
Ali Arteaga
Laura Cross
Anissa M Cordova
Dylan Larson-Konar
Rachel Rowland
Jessica Quick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
Through compassion, humor, and a commitment to a strong therapeutic relationship, she has helped clients navigate pain and problems caused by anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, addiction, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, chronic and terminal illness, and distressed relationships.
Jessica Quick, MSW, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker who brings warmth and energy along with a cognitive approach to her work with a diverse group of adults. Using a blend of person-first therapy and motivational interviewing, complemented by Cognitive Behavioral and mindfulness techniques and specialized grief counseling, Jess has worked in a wide variety of treatment settings for over fifteen years to help individuals and couples set, reach, and maintain goals. In addition to her clinical work, Jess has been an Adjunct Professor at Metro State University for the past eleven years.
Through compassion, humor, and a commitment to a strong therapeutic relationship, she has helped clients navigate pain and problems caused by anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, addiction, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, chronic and terminal illness, and distressed relationships.
Jessica Quick, MSW, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker who brings warmth and energy along with a cognitive approach to her work with a diverse group of adults. Using a blend of person-first therapy and motivational interviewing, complemented by Cognitive Behavioral and mindfulness techniques and specialized grief counseling, Jess has worked in a wide variety of treatment settings for over fifteen years to help individuals and couples set, reach, and maintain goals. In addition to her clinical work, Jess has been an Adjunct Professor at Metro State University for the past eleven years.
Chuck Barr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, Couples, EMDR, EFT, ACT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
I welcome the opportunity to help you individually or as a couple to move in a direction that is happier, healthier, more at ease and deeply aligned with who you are really are and what matters most to you or your partner. Whether you are struggling with a relationship issue such as infidelity or a personal issue such as anxiety, fear, grief, depression, chronic pain or unresolved trauma (PTSD), we will work together towards healing and core level change - not just a temporary reduction in your symptoms. I view our work together as collaborative. You're the expert on your life, while I bring a psychological, holistic perspective.
I welcome the opportunity to help you individually or as a couple to move in a direction that is happier, healthier, more at ease and deeply aligned with who you are really are and what matters most to you or your partner. Whether you are struggling with a relationship issue such as infidelity or a personal issue such as anxiety, fear, grief, depression, chronic pain or unresolved trauma (PTSD), we will work together towards healing and core level change - not just a temporary reduction in your symptoms. I view our work together as collaborative. You're the expert on your life, while I bring a psychological, holistic perspective.
Jenny Jacobsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
She loves to work with people who have experienced trauma or are experiencing issues with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, grief/loss and chronic pain.
There are times in life when we feel stuck. Sometimes it's due to patterns of thinking/behavior that aren’t working for us anymore & other times its from events in our past that are affecting our present. But what we now know with neuroscience is that we can actually reshape how our past experiences impact our current lives. In counseling we can help you better understand your story & make sense of what is keeping you stuck. Sometimes healing looks like challenging negative thought patterns and other times its through trauma processing. By honoring your story you can experience new levels of emotion, self-compassion and connection.
She loves to work with people who have experienced trauma or are experiencing issues with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, grief/loss and chronic pain.
There are times in life when we feel stuck. Sometimes it's due to patterns of thinking/behavior that aren’t working for us anymore & other times its from events in our past that are affecting our present. But what we now know with neuroscience is that we can actually reshape how our past experiences impact our current lives. In counseling we can help you better understand your story & make sense of what is keeping you stuck. Sometimes healing looks like challenging negative thought patterns and other times its through trauma processing. By honoring your story you can experience new levels of emotion, self-compassion and connection.
June Ashley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy helping people who are navigating trauma, grief and loss, prenatal/postpartum distress, health changes, chronic pain, unsupportive systems, career changes, compassion fatigue and burnout, and identity exploration.
Each of us experiences moments in life when we are not sure what path to take. We may feel disconnected from our values, distant from those we most want to be close to, and out of balance in our daily rhythm. In the midst of overwhelm, we know something needs to change yet we may not easily see what that is. It may also be that we know what we want to change but we encounter challenges from others or from seemingly immovable obstacles in our world. At times like these, we need a wingman; someone who knows how to help us utilize our strengths so we can chart a course toward what matters most. I would be honored to be your wingman.
I enjoy helping people who are navigating trauma, grief and loss, prenatal/postpartum distress, health changes, chronic pain, unsupportive systems, career changes, compassion fatigue and burnout, and identity exploration.
Each of us experiences moments in life when we are not sure what path to take. We may feel disconnected from our values, distant from those we most want to be close to, and out of balance in our daily rhythm. In the midst of overwhelm, we know something needs to change yet we may not easily see what that is. It may also be that we know what we want to change but we encounter challenges from others or from seemingly immovable obstacles in our world. At times like these, we need a wingman; someone who knows how to help us utilize our strengths so we can chart a course toward what matters most. I would be honored to be your wingman.
Martha Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
Specialties: panic, anxiety, depression, life transitions, neurodovergency, BURNOUT, chronic pain, relationships, trauma (current, childhood, complex, religious, medical).
Hi there! My name is Martha, welcome. Man, I know weeding through these profiles can feel monotonous and disingenuous. So here it is: I am a somatic therapist. I truly use a whole body approach to support you in coming home to yourself. I want to help you feel your way into healing, not think it. I am not a check-list therapist. Too many therapists bring you to baseline and then fall out. New, healthier patterns have to be established, for healing to transcend. My clients seek a real, intimate, rich relationship in which they are known, held and invigorated. I am described as being "earthy, tender, challenging and empowering."
Specialties: panic, anxiety, depression, life transitions, neurodovergency, BURNOUT, chronic pain, relationships, trauma (current, childhood, complex, religious, medical).
Hi there! My name is Martha, welcome. Man, I know weeding through these profiles can feel monotonous and disingenuous. So here it is: I am a somatic therapist. I truly use a whole body approach to support you in coming home to yourself. I want to help you feel your way into healing, not think it. I am not a check-list therapist. Too many therapists bring you to baseline and then fall out. New, healthier patterns have to be established, for healing to transcend. My clients seek a real, intimate, rich relationship in which they are known, held and invigorated. I am described as being "earthy, tender, challenging and empowering."
Bob Whitehouse, EdD,BCB, SEP, LLC
Psychologist, EdD, BCB, SEP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
In my psychotherapy sessions, I like to include Biofeedback monitoring of heart rate and breathing chemistry to give me useful information in treatment planning and to help empower clients in greater self-regulation/self-control. I provide many skills for clients to practice. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral techniques along with psychophysiological (biofeedback), transpersonal, and Somatic Experiencing stress and trauma release approaches. I also work with optimizing performance in any area whether sports, music, speaking, acting, or reducing anxiety. My motto is OPT for the BEST which is my acronym for Optimal Performance Training for the Body, Emotions, Spirit, and Thoughts.
In my psychotherapy sessions, I like to include Biofeedback monitoring of heart rate and breathing chemistry to give me useful information in treatment planning and to help empower clients in greater self-regulation/self-control. I provide many skills for clients to practice. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral techniques along with psychophysiological (biofeedback), transpersonal, and Somatic Experiencing stress and trauma release approaches. I also work with optimizing performance in any area whether sports, music, speaking, acting, or reducing anxiety. My motto is OPT for the BEST which is my acronym for Optimal Performance Training for the Body, Emotions, Spirit, and Thoughts.
Samantha Burns
MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209 (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are struggling with nightmares, past trauma and flashbacks of negative memories that you have experienced in your life? Are you or your child having difficulties with functioning with daily tasks such as attending school or work because of negative past experiences you have endured? Or do you feel extremely overwhelmed, depressed and experience difficulties with racing thought patterns? These difficulties can limit your ability to live a happy and fulfilling life. Allow me to support you in your therapeutic journey as we work through these experiences together.
Do you feel like you are struggling with nightmares, past trauma and flashbacks of negative memories that you have experienced in your life? Are you or your child having difficulties with functioning with daily tasks such as attending school or work because of negative past experiences you have endured? Or do you feel extremely overwhelmed, depressed and experience difficulties with racing thought patterns? These difficulties can limit your ability to live a happy and fulfilling life. Allow me to support you in your therapeutic journey as we work through these experiences together.
Maura Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
I strongly believe in the human capacity for resilience, healing, and transformation and I am passionate about tailoring therapy to fit the individual and their strengths. Most of all though I genuinely care and invest myself in the people I serve, I have worked with clients experiencing a variety of conditions such as panic disorder, sexual/physical abuse, anxiety/depression, disturbing memories, trauma, stress reduction, and addiction. I am however particularly passionate in providing therapy to the LGBTQ+ community, a population in which individuals are statistically more likely to experience a mental health condition.
I strongly believe in the human capacity for resilience, healing, and transformation and I am passionate about tailoring therapy to fit the individual and their strengths. Most of all though I genuinely care and invest myself in the people I serve, I have worked with clients experiencing a variety of conditions such as panic disorder, sexual/physical abuse, anxiety/depression, disturbing memories, trauma, stress reduction, and addiction. I am however particularly passionate in providing therapy to the LGBTQ+ community, a population in which individuals are statistically more likely to experience a mental health condition.
Trayci Prince
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
I understand how overwhelming life can feel at times. And how difficult it can be to find the time to take care of yourself. Especially if experiencing depression, anxiety or grief related to stressful life transitions. I believe you are ultimately the expert of your own life, but there are times when each of us could benefit from help. As your therapist, I will partner with you in an active, yet non-judgmental manner, to help you achieve your identified goals. My approach is eclectic, holistic and tapered to meet your unique needs.
I understand how overwhelming life can feel at times. And how difficult it can be to find the time to take care of yourself. Especially if experiencing depression, anxiety or grief related to stressful life transitions. I believe you are ultimately the expert of your own life, but there are times when each of us could benefit from help. As your therapist, I will partner with you in an active, yet non-judgmental manner, to help you achieve your identified goals. My approach is eclectic, holistic and tapered to meet your unique needs.
See more therapy options for 80209
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.