Photo of Savannah M Fine, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Savannah M Fine
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
My specialities include: Sex/Sexuality, Intimacy, Relationships, Chronic Pain/Chronic Illness, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Grief/Loss.
Hello! My name is Savannah M. Fine and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 139871 and a Certified Sex Therapist supporting human beings in the state of California. I am polyam, ENM, kink and LGBTQ+ affirming, and I work with individuals, partners, and families who are looking to form a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and their communities. I understand that healing and growth looks different for each individual and hope to provide the support necessary for your mind, body, and soul.
My specialities include: Sex/Sexuality, Intimacy, Relationships, Chronic Pain/Chronic Illness, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Grief/Loss.
Hello! My name is Savannah M. Fine and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 139871 and a Certified Sex Therapist supporting human beings in the state of California. I am polyam, ENM, kink and LGBTQ+ affirming, and I work with individuals, partners, and families who are looking to form a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and their communities. I understand that healing and growth looks different for each individual and hope to provide the support necessary for your mind, body, and soul.
(424) 404-8460 View (424) 404-8460
Photo of Chelsea Allyn Moyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Chelsea Allyn Moyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I deeply believe in the healing process and an individual's innate capacity for transformation. With over a decade of experience working as a clinical therapist, I believe it's not about working harder but working smarter. Our goal is primarily to identify all of the blocks (namely old patterns, limiting beliefs, old habits, patterns of avoidance, etc.) that are interfering with your brain and body's natural tendency towards healing. This can show up as addictions, chronic pain, anxiety, or depression. Whatever you're working through, your system will guide us towards healing and, ultimately, equilibrium.
I deeply believe in the healing process and an individual's innate capacity for transformation. With over a decade of experience working as a clinical therapist, I believe it's not about working harder but working smarter. Our goal is primarily to identify all of the blocks (namely old patterns, limiting beliefs, old habits, patterns of avoidance, etc.) that are interfering with your brain and body's natural tendency towards healing. This can show up as addictions, chronic pain, anxiety, or depression. Whatever you're working through, your system will guide us towards healing and, ultimately, equilibrium.
(310) 634-1290 View (310) 634-1290
Photo of Lisa Kring, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Lisa Kring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
Specializations include support for anxiety, stress, trauma, emotional regulation, life/work balance, self esteem, negative/obsessive mental patterns, despair, mindful parenting, chronic illness, pain management, grief and dying.
I am an LCSW and received my MSW in 1994 from the USC School of Social Work, and am trained in transpersonal, self, somatic and attachment therapies.  I am a long-time committed Theravada mindfulness meditator and teacher, primarily with InsightLA.  A certified in Mindful Self-Compassion, Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction and Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness teacher, I am uniquely positioned to blend the healing and transformative power of mindfulness within a wholesome therapeutic relationship.
Specializations include support for anxiety, stress, trauma, emotional regulation, life/work balance, self esteem, negative/obsessive mental patterns, despair, mindful parenting, chronic illness, pain management, grief and dying.
I am an LCSW and received my MSW in 1994 from the USC School of Social Work, and am trained in transpersonal, self, somatic and attachment therapies.  I am a long-time committed Theravada mindfulness meditator and teacher, primarily with InsightLA.  A certified in Mindful Self-Compassion, Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction and Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness teacher, I am uniquely positioned to blend the healing and transformative power of mindfulness within a wholesome therapeutic relationship.
(323) 676-1059 View (323) 676-1059
Photo of Dani Reisbaum, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 90046, CA
Dani Reisbaum
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I offer an open, non-judgemental space where you can speak honestly about your thoughts and experiences while working towards your personal goals. As a queer, trauma-informed sex therapist, I enjoy working together to deconstruct the social scripts, pressures and ‘shoulds’ that often get in the way of our growth, healing and liberation. Some areas that I am especially passionate about working with are anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, gender identity, sexuality, relationship dynamics, existential questioning, sexual trauma and chronic pain.
I offer an open, non-judgemental space where you can speak honestly about your thoughts and experiences while working towards your personal goals. As a queer, trauma-informed sex therapist, I enjoy working together to deconstruct the social scripts, pressures and ‘shoulds’ that often get in the way of our growth, healing and liberation. Some areas that I am especially passionate about working with are anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, gender identity, sexuality, relationship dynamics, existential questioning, sexual trauma and chronic pain.
(310) 736-4293 View (310) 736-4293
Photo of Valerie J Garrett, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Valerie J Garrett
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
THERE IS A BETTER WAY... Are you living with anxiety, depression, fear, guilt, or shame? Do you feel hopeless at times? You've probably heard "pain is unavoidable, but suffering is optional." We suffer because our mind makes up a story about the painful emotion and keeps it going rather than letting it pass. Through a combination of traditional psychotherapy and hypnosis, I can help you become aware of what's not working, and together, we can create new habits and ways to deal with pain and experience relief. Are you ready to feel more comfortable, secure, loved, and accepted?
THERE IS A BETTER WAY... Are you living with anxiety, depression, fear, guilt, or shame? Do you feel hopeless at times? You've probably heard "pain is unavoidable, but suffering is optional." We suffer because our mind makes up a story about the painful emotion and keeps it going rather than letting it pass. Through a combination of traditional psychotherapy and hypnosis, I can help you become aware of what's not working, and together, we can create new habits and ways to deal with pain and experience relief. Are you ready to feel more comfortable, secure, loved, and accepted?
(323) 476-1726 View (323) 476-1726
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Oeding, Psychologist in 90046, CA
Dr. Jennifer Oeding
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (Online Only)
My special interests include health psychology - helping individuals, couples and family members coping with illness; trauma - providing prolonged exposure therapy; and couples therapy - including non-traditional relationships and divorce/co-parenting.
The reasons why people choose to go to therapy are numerous. From recent life stressors to long-term struggles with addiction, anxiety or depression, therapy can be a way to increase adaptability, happiness, coping, and overall quality of life. For some, therapy is about treating an identified problem, while others focus on personal growth and general well-being. Either way, therapy can be an important catalyst for positive change.
My special interests include health psychology - helping individuals, couples and family members coping with illness; trauma - providing prolonged exposure therapy; and couples therapy - including non-traditional relationships and divorce/co-parenting.
The reasons why people choose to go to therapy are numerous. From recent life stressors to long-term struggles with addiction, anxiety or depression, therapy can be a way to increase adaptability, happiness, coping, and overall quality of life. For some, therapy is about treating an identified problem, while others focus on personal growth and general well-being. Either way, therapy can be an important catalyst for positive change.
(323) 745-1173 View (323) 745-1173
Photo of Sam Elliott Pow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Sam Elliott Pow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Healing from trauma, reclaiming power, growing from struggle and learning to work WITH emotions rather than AGAINST them are the goals I strive to support my clients in achieving. I want to help my clients move beyond simply not feeling so depressed, anxious, angry or manic. I want to help them transcend their pain, feel like they are fulfilling their purpose in life, are able to truly love themselves and are cultivating relationships that feed their soul. Narrative Therapy teaches my clients to transform the meaning of what they have been through and techniques from Existential Therapy help clients create or discover their purpose.
Healing from trauma, reclaiming power, growing from struggle and learning to work WITH emotions rather than AGAINST them are the goals I strive to support my clients in achieving. I want to help my clients move beyond simply not feeling so depressed, anxious, angry or manic. I want to help them transcend their pain, feel like they are fulfilling their purpose in life, are able to truly love themselves and are cultivating relationships that feed their soul. Narrative Therapy teaches my clients to transform the meaning of what they have been through and techniques from Existential Therapy help clients create or discover their purpose.
(747) 271-2029 View (747) 271-2029
Photo of Lori Karny LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Lori Karny LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I enjoy assisting adults of all ages to explore relationship concerns, to develop personal autonomy, self-worth - and to explore individual and professional creativity. If you are depressed, anxious, angry, struggling or worried - I want to help you. For over 25 years, I have supported individuals of all ages to articulate and understand psychological problems, to develop insight and individual strategies to thrive in life. I specialize in helping people who are are struggling with trauma, identity, suicidal ideation, emotional pain, social changes, family dynamics, relationship loss, complex grief, and emotional life transitions.
I enjoy assisting adults of all ages to explore relationship concerns, to develop personal autonomy, self-worth - and to explore individual and professional creativity. If you are depressed, anxious, angry, struggling or worried - I want to help you. For over 25 years, I have supported individuals of all ages to articulate and understand psychological problems, to develop insight and individual strategies to thrive in life. I specialize in helping people who are are struggling with trauma, identity, suicidal ideation, emotional pain, social changes, family dynamics, relationship loss, complex grief, and emotional life transitions.
(310) 341-0721 View (310) 341-0721
Photo of Ronna Hoffman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Ronna Hoffman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
I work with in a holistic way often in conjunction with other practitioners to help individuals with a variety of issues including; addictive behavior, illness, loss, trauma, mood, anxiey and panic, relationship and family issues, as well as in achieving goals in areas such as diet, sports and achievement.
I work in many ways depending on the unique situation of my clients. I find that working on both a conscious and subconscious level to be extremely precise and powerful in getting to the root of a problem, changing patterns and programming, letting go, facilitating a natural healing process, and replacing unhealthy with healthy ways of fulfilling certain needs, and achieving certain goals.
I work with in a holistic way often in conjunction with other practitioners to help individuals with a variety of issues including; addictive behavior, illness, loss, trauma, mood, anxiey and panic, relationship and family issues, as well as in achieving goals in areas such as diet, sports and achievement.
I work in many ways depending on the unique situation of my clients. I find that working on both a conscious and subconscious level to be extremely precise and powerful in getting to the root of a problem, changing patterns and programming, letting go, facilitating a natural healing process, and replacing unhealthy with healthy ways of fulfilling certain needs, and achieving certain goals.
(424) 224-9982 View (424) 224-9982
Photo of Noah Manne, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Noah Manne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I have worked with people with various mood disorders, widely different cultural and ethnic backgrounds, ages, gender identities and sexual orientations, trauma histories, and medical problems and chronic illness.
I became a psychotherapist as part of an overall commitment to exploring the many different paths to healing and wellbeing. My style is warm, collaborative, flexible and respectful. The goal is to have the best possible experience of living. We cannot accomplish that by rewriting our history, yet together you and I can engage in a process where we understand what your past means to you and the impact it has on your current behaviors and relationships, in order to make space for new meanings and new responses to things and a better experience of living.
I have worked with people with various mood disorders, widely different cultural and ethnic backgrounds, ages, gender identities and sexual orientations, trauma histories, and medical problems and chronic illness.
I became a psychotherapist as part of an overall commitment to exploring the many different paths to healing and wellbeing. My style is warm, collaborative, flexible and respectful. The goal is to have the best possible experience of living. We cannot accomplish that by rewriting our history, yet together you and I can engage in a process where we understand what your past means to you and the impact it has on your current behaviors and relationships, in order to make space for new meanings and new responses to things and a better experience of living.
(323) 686-6741 View (323) 686-6741
Photo of Laurie Markham, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Laurie Markham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
I have a well-ventilated, large office space located above Le Pain Quotidien in Larchmont Village.
All too often struggles deplete our energy and leave us feeling down on ourselves. Through rigorous conversation and a highly supportive relationship, I help people gain the clarity and confidence needed to produce desired change. I have extensive training in postmodern therapies, which examine how dominant cultural discourses can have oppressive effects on our lives, identities, and relationships. Prior to working in private practice, I was part of UCLA's network, where I brought social justice aims to integrative models of mental health. I have many years of experience working with couples, families, youth, and adults.
I have a well-ventilated, large office space located above Le Pain Quotidien in Larchmont Village.
All too often struggles deplete our energy and leave us feeling down on ourselves. Through rigorous conversation and a highly supportive relationship, I help people gain the clarity and confidence needed to produce desired change. I have extensive training in postmodern therapies, which examine how dominant cultural discourses can have oppressive effects on our lives, identities, and relationships. Prior to working in private practice, I was part of UCLA's network, where I brought social justice aims to integrative models of mental health. I have many years of experience working with couples, families, youth, and adults.
(323) 302-5547 View (323) 302-5547
Photo of Karinne Robbins, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90046, CA
Karinne Robbins
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
I support clients journeying through a vast array of concerns, in particular gender & sexuality exploration; adoptee/donor-conceived identity; trauma; chronic pain; and neurodiversity.
When you’re experiencing the full chaos of living, it can be hard to find ways to meaningfully show up for yourself. As an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, my goal is to open a space for you to pause, take a breath, and feel understood as you connect with who you are and where you are in the moment. I work across the lifespan with children (ages 5+), adolescents, and adults looking for a safe and nurturing environment to explore their multifaceted identities, relationships, and past/current/future lived experiences.
I support clients journeying through a vast array of concerns, in particular gender & sexuality exploration; adoptee/donor-conceived identity; trauma; chronic pain; and neurodiversity.
When you’re experiencing the full chaos of living, it can be hard to find ways to meaningfully show up for yourself. As an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, my goal is to open a space for you to pause, take a breath, and feel understood as you connect with who you are and where you are in the moment. I work across the lifespan with children (ages 5+), adolescents, and adults looking for a safe and nurturing environment to explore their multifaceted identities, relationships, and past/current/future lived experiences.
(424) 229-2498 View (424) 229-2498
Photo of Leah R Finn, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Leah R Finn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I've successfully treated many people who have experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness/ pain and other issues.
As your therapist, I create an environment for you to feel safe to explore fears, challenges and your deepest desires. I'm here to empower you! I'll offer a variety of techniques and collaborate with you in developing goals to co-create a therapeutic experience, facilitating healing and personal growth. I use an anti-oppression, disability justice framework and consider how ethnicity, class, gender, age, ability and sexuality intersect. My background as a community organizer for social justice informs my practice. I will tailor our work together to address your unique and specific needs and preferences.
I've successfully treated many people who have experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness/ pain and other issues.
As your therapist, I create an environment for you to feel safe to explore fears, challenges and your deepest desires. I'm here to empower you! I'll offer a variety of techniques and collaborate with you in developing goals to co-create a therapeutic experience, facilitating healing and personal growth. I use an anti-oppression, disability justice framework and consider how ethnicity, class, gender, age, ability and sexuality intersect. My background as a community organizer for social justice informs my practice. I will tailor our work together to address your unique and specific needs and preferences.
(510) 560-7164 View (510) 560-7164
Photo of Angelica Yinling Sun, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Angelica Yinling Sun
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Are you or your child struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or emotional pain? Do you and your spouse fight all the time or have difficulty communicating? Do you feel like you are stuck, getting left-behind, or just not "good enough"? In therapy we will build on your strengths, helping you or your child gain confidence, self-compassion, and self-acceptance. You can learn to better express your needs to your spouse and to yourself. You can gain coping skills for managing difficult emotions and for more effective parenting. In couples therapy you will learn to create a more nurturing relationship. I am looking forward to helping!
Are you or your child struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or emotional pain? Do you and your spouse fight all the time or have difficulty communicating? Do you feel like you are stuck, getting left-behind, or just not "good enough"? In therapy we will build on your strengths, helping you or your child gain confidence, self-compassion, and self-acceptance. You can learn to better express your needs to your spouse and to yourself. You can gain coping skills for managing difficult emotions and for more effective parenting. In couples therapy you will learn to create a more nurturing relationship. I am looking forward to helping!
(323) 576-7141 View (323) 576-7141
Photo of Anthony D. DiNardo, Psychologist in 90046, CA
Anthony D. DiNardo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Are you looking for a doctor that can help improve your overall quality of life and help alleviate symptoms? Psychotherapy can provide a forum to alleviate symptoms that hinder growth and well-being and can provide you with the needed insight to be able to manage symptoms and provide relief. Through a collaborative approach I can help you overcome the challenges and obstacles that can interfere with your goals & ambitions. I can aid in the facilitation of helping you develop the needed skills and mind set to improve your quality of life. Additionally, my professional services include providing psychological, psychodiagnostic, personality, and psycho-educational assessments.
Are you looking for a doctor that can help improve your overall quality of life and help alleviate symptoms? Psychotherapy can provide a forum to alleviate symptoms that hinder growth and well-being and can provide you with the needed insight to be able to manage symptoms and provide relief. Through a collaborative approach I can help you overcome the challenges and obstacles that can interfere with your goals & ambitions. I can aid in the facilitation of helping you develop the needed skills and mind set to improve your quality of life. Additionally, my professional services include providing psychological, psychodiagnostic, personality, and psycho-educational assessments.
(424) 570-2081 View (424) 570-2081
Photo of Travis Bauer, Psychologist in 90046, CA
Travis Bauer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
I see many clients who feel stuck and unable to alter their life in a way that reflects their values, causing them to feel sad, on edge, or numb. They are suffering a great deal, and often their needs seem unclear. I use a frank and kind style to empower clients to find meaning and hope as they navigate the complicated, often oppressive systems of our world. This process is one of uncovering patterns—which may feel difficult to articulate at the beginning—restricting clients from fully experiencing life. Once their needs and goals become clear, I help them build and sustain a more flexible and expansive way of living and connecting.
I see many clients who feel stuck and unable to alter their life in a way that reflects their values, causing them to feel sad, on edge, or numb. They are suffering a great deal, and often their needs seem unclear. I use a frank and kind style to empower clients to find meaning and hope as they navigate the complicated, often oppressive systems of our world. This process is one of uncovering patterns—which may feel difficult to articulate at the beginning—restricting clients from fully experiencing life. Once their needs and goals become clear, I help them build and sustain a more flexible and expansive way of living and connecting.
(310) 484-5374 View (310) 484-5374
Photo of Marnel Tucker, Psychologist in 90046, CA
Marnel Tucker
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
My name is Dr. Marnel Tucker, I am a clinical psychologist, and I have been in the mental health field for 20 years. I treat adults, young adults, teens and seniors. Throughout the years I've practiced in many settings including; inpatient, outpatient, dual diagnosed, and mild to moderate severity. I work from culturally competent position, meaning I am self-aware. Allowing me to work with other cultures with diverse values, beliefs, feelings, religions, sexuality, ethnic background, and gender differences.
My name is Dr. Marnel Tucker, I am a clinical psychologist, and I have been in the mental health field for 20 years. I treat adults, young adults, teens and seniors. Throughout the years I've practiced in many settings including; inpatient, outpatient, dual diagnosed, and mild to moderate severity. I work from culturally competent position, meaning I am self-aware. Allowing me to work with other cultures with diverse values, beliefs, feelings, religions, sexuality, ethnic background, and gender differences.
(323) 870-1350 View (323) 870-1350
Photo of Philip “Tad” King, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Philip “Tad” King
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and addiction. In recent years I have developed a focus on work with couples, utilizing the science of human bonding and love. I have a strength in helping couples decode negative patterns or cycles that keep them feeling disconnected and alone. I will help you build a strong and lasting bond with your partner or spouse that provides a deeper sense of safety and connection.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and addiction. In recent years I have developed a focus on work with couples, utilizing the science of human bonding and love. I have a strength in helping couples decode negative patterns or cycles that keep them feeling disconnected and alone. I will help you build a strong and lasting bond with your partner or spouse that provides a deeper sense of safety and connection.
(760) 280-6023 View (760) 280-6023
Photo of Anna Pow, Pre-Licensed Professional in 90046, CA
Anna Pow
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I see therapy as a collaborative and healing process. I view you as the expert on yourself. It is my job to gently shine a mirror and assist you in your empowerment and growth. During therapy sessions my clients are like a river. The therapeutic process is a kayak floating on the current provided by your thoughts and feelings. I am the paddle. I will steer, guide, and help you get unstuck but you determine the direction and the pace at which the process flows. My practice utilizes an integrative, process-orientated approach that is trauma informed and client centered.
I see therapy as a collaborative and healing process. I view you as the expert on yourself. It is my job to gently shine a mirror and assist you in your empowerment and growth. During therapy sessions my clients are like a river. The therapeutic process is a kayak floating on the current provided by your thoughts and feelings. I am the paddle. I will steer, guide, and help you get unstuck but you determine the direction and the pace at which the process flows. My practice utilizes an integrative, process-orientated approach that is trauma informed and client centered.
(323) 616-2062 View (323) 616-2062
Photo of Jonathan H Kruger, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Jonathan H Kruger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Change starts with the first step. Insight paired with action drives lasting change. However taking the step to foster change in one's emotional life can be frightening and overwhelming. With me you will find a safe, caring environment, where together we travel a path of emotional discovery that will lead you to a better life. Based in West Hollywood, my practice is designed to help you understand yourself at a fundamental level, to give you tools and craft an approach that is healing and meets your specific needs. Building trust in the therapeutic journey, in an atmosphere that supports emotional growth and lasting change.
Change starts with the first step. Insight paired with action drives lasting change. However taking the step to foster change in one's emotional life can be frightening and overwhelming. With me you will find a safe, caring environment, where together we travel a path of emotional discovery that will lead you to a better life. Based in West Hollywood, my practice is designed to help you understand yourself at a fundamental level, to give you tools and craft an approach that is healing and meets your specific needs. Building trust in the therapeutic journey, in an atmosphere that supports emotional growth and lasting change.
(310) 729-9062 View (310) 729-9062
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.