Chronic Pain Therapists in 97205

Photo of Eden Baron-Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Eden Baron-Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
You came here because you have a desire to deepen your relationship with yourself and others, you feel stuck in patterns you hope to change, are processing trauma, or are looking to reclaim lost parts of yourself. You have come to the right place. Working with adults with childhood trauma/complex trauma, couples/relational systems, chronic pain/ illness, and queer/trans/non-binary individuals and relationships, I create spaces for care and collaboration. I hope to assist you in building a bridge to yourself that unlocks your inner wisdom and weaves together the vast embroidery of stories, sensations, and emotions in your life.
You came here because you have a desire to deepen your relationship with yourself and others, you feel stuck in patterns you hope to change, are processing trauma, or are looking to reclaim lost parts of yourself. You have come to the right place. Working with adults with childhood trauma/complex trauma, couples/relational systems, chronic pain/ illness, and queer/trans/non-binary individuals and relationships, I create spaces for care and collaboration. I hope to assist you in building a bridge to yourself that unlocks your inner wisdom and weaves together the vast embroidery of stories, sensations, and emotions in your life.
(971) 365-4866 View (971) 365-4866
Photo of Terra Midgett Clark, LPC, NCC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terra Midgett Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I believe in the strength and resilience of people. Facing the parts of us that are scared, in pain, angry or that we are ashamed of is hard work and it is rewarding work. We have the opportunity to ​increase self-awareness, understand and accept patterns, and learn new skills and ways of engaging in the world. I prioritize building a genuine, empathetic, safe relationship. I want you to experience me as an authentic person in the room. I find this is the essential key to progress. As a therapist, I ground my work in Internal Family Systems Theory and Person-Centered Theory.
I believe in the strength and resilience of people. Facing the parts of us that are scared, in pain, angry or that we are ashamed of is hard work and it is rewarding work. We have the opportunity to ​increase self-awareness, understand and accept patterns, and learn new skills and ways of engaging in the world. I prioritize building a genuine, empathetic, safe relationship. I want you to experience me as an authentic person in the room. I find this is the essential key to progress. As a therapist, I ground my work in Internal Family Systems Theory and Person-Centered Theory.
(844) 510-0314 View (844) 510-0314
Photo of Alexandra Saperstein, LPC, LMFT, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexandra Saperstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I work with couples in crisis and individuals facing depression, life transitions, and/or other life challenges. I understand that finding a therapist can feel daunting so I offer an initial, free twenty minute phone consultation. This can help you decide if I may be a good fit for you at this time. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Relational Life Method Therapist, and an Advanced Trained Gottman Counselor, we'll work side by side to move from gridlock or pain towards more genuine connection and joy. I have helped hundreds of clients in the past decade. I look forward to connecting!
I work with couples in crisis and individuals facing depression, life transitions, and/or other life challenges. I understand that finding a therapist can feel daunting so I offer an initial, free twenty minute phone consultation. This can help you decide if I may be a good fit for you at this time. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Relational Life Method Therapist, and an Advanced Trained Gottman Counselor, we'll work side by side to move from gridlock or pain towards more genuine connection and joy. I have helped hundreds of clients in the past decade. I look forward to connecting!
(503) 406-3068 View (503) 406-3068
Photo of Stephanie Brell - Mended with Gold Counseling, LCSW, CADCI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mended with Gold Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCI
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
My experience includes work in many settings: private practice, major hospital systems, pain management, mental health, addiction treatment, hospice and home health home care, & teaching.
Each one of us possesses problem-solving strengths. In times of transition and stress, these strengths can seem dormant. Therapy can uncover and further develop personal resiliency. I help people enhance their unique coping strategies, to move toward a life of integrity and strength. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort, with your skills, life experience and hopes an important factor in how our sessions proceed. It takes a lot of courage to start therapy. I am continually awed by the people I see in counseling. It's an honor to be involved in this work.
My experience includes work in many settings: private practice, major hospital systems, pain management, mental health, addiction treatment, hospice and home health home care, & teaching.
Each one of us possesses problem-solving strengths. In times of transition and stress, these strengths can seem dormant. Therapy can uncover and further develop personal resiliency. I help people enhance their unique coping strategies, to move toward a life of integrity and strength. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort, with your skills, life experience and hopes an important factor in how our sessions proceed. It takes a lot of courage to start therapy. I am continually awed by the people I see in counseling. It's an honor to be involved in this work.
(503) 828-9480 View (503) 828-9480
Photo of Annie Dolle @ Arrival Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annie Dolle @ Arrival Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Join with me and allow connection, safety, and curiosity to unearth your fullest self. Become a compassionate observer of your own experience as your nervous system aligns in relationship. Tired of contracting and reacting? Together we can find ways to experience and respond to life as it comes. What have you experienced? What strategies have you employed to cope? What have you come to believe about yourself and others? Lets take a look at your goals and concerns and move towards a functional and connected you. There are reasons for your current pain, and It is possible to feel better.
Join with me and allow connection, safety, and curiosity to unearth your fullest self. Become a compassionate observer of your own experience as your nervous system aligns in relationship. Tired of contracting and reacting? Together we can find ways to experience and respond to life as it comes. What have you experienced? What strategies have you employed to cope? What have you come to believe about yourself and others? Lets take a look at your goals and concerns and move towards a functional and connected you. There are reasons for your current pain, and It is possible to feel better.
(503) 563-7407 View (503) 563-7407
Photo of Nic Sutherland, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Nic Sutherland
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I support my clients in finding authenticity, agency, and connection in the face of the inevitable changes life has to offer. If you find yourself processing pain from past relationships, feeling disconnected, or fighting in the kitchen, I would love to meet you there. My goal is to build a safe relationship with you, in which we can explore the complexity of your life; the mundane, the magic, the painful.
I support my clients in finding authenticity, agency, and connection in the face of the inevitable changes life has to offer. If you find yourself processing pain from past relationships, feeling disconnected, or fighting in the kitchen, I would love to meet you there. My goal is to build a safe relationship with you, in which we can explore the complexity of your life; the mundane, the magic, the painful.
(971) 274-5960 View (971) 274-5960
Photo of Katherine Noonan, PhD, Psychologist
Katherine Noonan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I use a mindfulness-based approach as well as CBT approaches, and I have advanced training in CBT for Insomnia (CBT-I), CBT for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP), Hypnosis, and Mindfulness.
Growth and empowerment occur when we feel seen and heard, and this is what I strive to foster in my work as a psychologist. I am passionate about helping you achieve your health and wellness goals. I use an evidence based, integrative approach, and my goal is to identify your unique needs and aspirations. You’ll find I am warm , empathetic, kind and accepting, and that in our work together, I create a space where you can feel comfortable and free to share all parts of yourself.
I use a mindfulness-based approach as well as CBT approaches, and I have advanced training in CBT for Insomnia (CBT-I), CBT for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP), Hypnosis, and Mindfulness.
Growth and empowerment occur when we feel seen and heard, and this is what I strive to foster in my work as a psychologist. I am passionate about helping you achieve your health and wellness goals. I use an evidence based, integrative approach, and my goal is to identify your unique needs and aspirations. You’ll find I am warm , empathetic, kind and accepting, and that in our work together, I create a space where you can feel comfortable and free to share all parts of yourself.
(971) 385-4594 View (971) 385-4594
Photo of Carol S Marcus, PhD, Psychologist
Carol S Marcus
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
People I have worked with have found these treatment approaches successful in transforming emotional burdens such as trauma, difficult relational patterns, old beliefs about ourselves, and others, and discomfort/ pain in the body while working towards shifting their relationships with themselves and others.
I am available for in person sessions in Portland, OR only. While I continue to practice in New Jersey, it is through online sessions. I approach therapy with the belief that we all have an inherent ability to grow and heal, wired deep inside ourselves. I have great faith in this capacity to heal and transform. My approach is collaborative and respectful. I am certified in Somatic Experiencing; a body-based naturalistic approach to healing trauma and also training in IFS; Internal Family Systems therapy and EMDR. Currently, I am licensed in Oregon and New Jersey.
People I have worked with have found these treatment approaches successful in transforming emotional burdens such as trauma, difficult relational patterns, old beliefs about ourselves, and others, and discomfort/ pain in the body while working towards shifting their relationships with themselves and others.
I am available for in person sessions in Portland, OR only. While I continue to practice in New Jersey, it is through online sessions. I approach therapy with the belief that we all have an inherent ability to grow and heal, wired deep inside ourselves. I have great faith in this capacity to heal and transform. My approach is collaborative and respectful. I am certified in Somatic Experiencing; a body-based naturalistic approach to healing trauma and also training in IFS; Internal Family Systems therapy and EMDR. Currently, I am licensed in Oregon and New Jersey.
(503) 755-5247 View (503) 755-5247
Photo of Lindsey Weber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey Weber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
While I work with a wide variety of folks, I have specific training in supporting those impacted by serious illnesses.
No matter how much we try to be happy, sometimes life hits us with curveballs and we get knocked down. While it's a natural reaction to want to distract ourselves from this pain, often that only makes it worse. I'm here to offer a different path. Together we can process difficult emotions, befriend uncertainty, and find meaning amid life's greatest challenges. My approach is eclectic with an emphasis on psychodynamic techniques. I've also been a Buddhist practitioner for nearly a decade, and occasionally integrate meditation and Eastern philosophy into my work as appropriate.
While I work with a wide variety of folks, I have specific training in supporting those impacted by serious illnesses.
No matter how much we try to be happy, sometimes life hits us with curveballs and we get knocked down. While it's a natural reaction to want to distract ourselves from this pain, often that only makes it worse. I'm here to offer a different path. Together we can process difficult emotions, befriend uncertainty, and find meaning amid life's greatest challenges. My approach is eclectic with an emphasis on psychodynamic techniques. I've also been a Buddhist practitioner for nearly a decade, and occasionally integrate meditation and Eastern philosophy into my work as appropriate.
(971) 287-6584 View (971) 287-6584
Photo of Lauren Loos, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Loos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Emotional pain and suffering can be disabling.
At the heart of every client lies truth and infinite potential. That is why I love my job. Spirited Quest Counseling was born out of the conviction that when an individual sets an intention to heal, they and those around them are transformed. I provide individual and couples counseling that promotes healing, well-being, self-awareness and empowerment along with the endurance, courage and skills to move from a life of survival to one of thriving. I specialize in treating clients impacted by the effects of trauma, spiritual struggle, depression and anxiety.
Emotional pain and suffering can be disabling.
At the heart of every client lies truth and infinite potential. That is why I love my job. Spirited Quest Counseling was born out of the conviction that when an individual sets an intention to heal, they and those around them are transformed. I provide individual and couples counseling that promotes healing, well-being, self-awareness and empowerment along with the endurance, courage and skills to move from a life of survival to one of thriving. I specialize in treating clients impacted by the effects of trauma, spiritual struggle, depression and anxiety.
(503) 664-4271 View (503) 664-4271
Photo of Susan Diane Gendein-Marshall, PhD, Psychologist
Susan Diane Gendein-Marshall
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Whether the focus is self esteem, depression, anxiety, relationships, trauma, addiction, or other sorts of pain, you will feel understood within a safe, caring and growth enhancing private therapy. A deeper understanding and comfort with yourself will empower you to live a richer, more productive and satisfying life. Discover important mind-body connections, better identify your desires and goals, be more organized, hopeful and able to enjoy relationships. Design and direct your life in creative, powerful and satisfying ways. Embrace this opportunity for insight, greater happiness and positive change. I can help you to become your most hoped for self.
Whether the focus is self esteem, depression, anxiety, relationships, trauma, addiction, or other sorts of pain, you will feel understood within a safe, caring and growth enhancing private therapy. A deeper understanding and comfort with yourself will empower you to live a richer, more productive and satisfying life. Discover important mind-body connections, better identify your desires and goals, be more organized, hopeful and able to enjoy relationships. Design and direct your life in creative, powerful and satisfying ways. Embrace this opportunity for insight, greater happiness and positive change. I can help you to become your most hoped for self.
(248) 461-3493 View (248) 461-3493
Photo of Dr. Katherine Plambeck, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Katherine Plambeck
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I believe therapy is a collaborative process that can lead to powerful transformations and enrichment. Life presents us with many challenges and my aim is to help you live a meaningful life even when difficulties or pain are present. I use what matters to you most as a guide towards making changes in your life. I offer specific strategies and tools that help shift your relationship to difficult thoughts and feelings, and take steps towards your personal goals. I strive to create a space that is respectful, warm, and welcoming to all. I specialize in evidence-based and mindfulness approaches within a culturally sensitive framework.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process that can lead to powerful transformations and enrichment. Life presents us with many challenges and my aim is to help you live a meaningful life even when difficulties or pain are present. I use what matters to you most as a guide towards making changes in your life. I offer specific strategies and tools that help shift your relationship to difficult thoughts and feelings, and take steps towards your personal goals. I strive to create a space that is respectful, warm, and welcoming to all. I specialize in evidence-based and mindfulness approaches within a culturally sensitive framework.
(925) 259-3332 View (925) 259-3332
Photo of Alana Hartman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alana Hartman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about accompanying individuals into the depths of emotional discomfort and suffering, identifying strategies to provide relief, and creating the necessary space to explore the patterns and connections that may be revealed by moving through, rather than avoiding, our pain.
As a therapist I’m drawn to those places of breakdown that so often have the potential to become breakthroughs. Usually these are discovered in the midst of broader life-cycle transitions, moments of grief and loss, seasons of depression or anxiety, or in response to the myriad of social and cultural pressures we face. These experiences can be disorienting, frightening and isolating, but with the support of a trusted companion to help us face the journey they can also reveal our own innate wisdom and strength and serve as the gateway to deeper healing and wholeness.
I am passionate about accompanying individuals into the depths of emotional discomfort and suffering, identifying strategies to provide relief, and creating the necessary space to explore the patterns and connections that may be revealed by moving through, rather than avoiding, our pain.
As a therapist I’m drawn to those places of breakdown that so often have the potential to become breakthroughs. Usually these are discovered in the midst of broader life-cycle transitions, moments of grief and loss, seasons of depression or anxiety, or in response to the myriad of social and cultural pressures we face. These experiences can be disorienting, frightening and isolating, but with the support of a trusted companion to help us face the journey they can also reveal our own innate wisdom and strength and serve as the gateway to deeper healing and wholeness.
(971) 306-4485 View (971) 306-4485
Photo of Björn Bergström, PsyD, Psychologist
Björn Bergström
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
In my work with you, I will focus on finding creative solutions to your unmet life-needs. I work with individuals needing help with Anxiety Disorders, Couples Counseling, ADHD and Gifted populations and more. My clients consistently describe me as warm, interactive, compassionate, and effective. My approach is practical, solutions-focused, highlighting both your strengths and growth areas for more adaptive living. Your treatment will include evidence-based treatments that are efficient and effective, such as: CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy), Exposure Therapy and Biofeedback.
In my work with you, I will focus on finding creative solutions to your unmet life-needs. I work with individuals needing help with Anxiety Disorders, Couples Counseling, ADHD and Gifted populations and more. My clients consistently describe me as warm, interactive, compassionate, and effective. My approach is practical, solutions-focused, highlighting both your strengths and growth areas for more adaptive living. Your treatment will include evidence-based treatments that are efficient and effective, such as: CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy), Exposure Therapy and Biofeedback.
(503) 664-4670 View (503) 664-4670
Photo of Christopher Lee Creaturo, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Lee Creaturo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I look for clients that are serious about change, tired of the dead ends and ready to step into a new life path as their best selves. My practice offers tools for trauma, depression, anxiety, and also works to progress life's bigger picture, and aid the search for direction and purpose that we often feel is missing. This toolset includes EMDR and Internal Family Systems, as well the creation of a healing space to reflect. We can bring about hope to the stuck parts of our worlds, and gain an edge to finally be fully present in our own lives and relationships again. Email is preferred to take the next step and see if we fit!
I look for clients that are serious about change, tired of the dead ends and ready to step into a new life path as their best selves. My practice offers tools for trauma, depression, anxiety, and also works to progress life's bigger picture, and aid the search for direction and purpose that we often feel is missing. This toolset includes EMDR and Internal Family Systems, as well the creation of a healing space to reflect. We can bring about hope to the stuck parts of our worlds, and gain an edge to finally be fully present in our own lives and relationships again. Email is preferred to take the next step and see if we fit!
(458) 217-6034 View (458) 217-6034
Photo of Julie Sliga, CRC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Sliga
Licensed Professional Counselor, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Are you feeling weighed down by anxiety or overwhelmed by life's challenges? I understand the struggles that come with being human. As your therapist, my focus is on you and creating a safe, judgment-free space for your self-exploration. Together, we'll explore the roots of your struggles – whether it's linked to trauma, grief, work stress, major life changes, or any other source of unease. I want to help you understand and ease your suffering with compassion, empowering you to lessen its impact on your life.
Are you feeling weighed down by anxiety or overwhelmed by life's challenges? I understand the struggles that come with being human. As your therapist, my focus is on you and creating a safe, judgment-free space for your self-exploration. Together, we'll explore the roots of your struggles – whether it's linked to trauma, grief, work stress, major life changes, or any other source of unease. I want to help you understand and ease your suffering with compassion, empowering you to lessen its impact on your life.
(503) 400-3389 View (503) 400-3389
Photo of Leah Haas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Haas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is collaborative, creative, and compassionate. My goal is to create a safe and warm space, so each client feels comfortable sharing what's on their mind and in their heart. This may include diving into trauma, grief, and other challenging life experiences that prevent a person from feeling at peace and operating at their highest potential. The philosophy that guides my work is that everyone has the inner wisdom needed to thrive. My role is to help clients access this inner wisdom so they can heal, grow and live the fulfilling life they are seeking.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, creative, and compassionate. My goal is to create a safe and warm space, so each client feels comfortable sharing what's on their mind and in their heart. This may include diving into trauma, grief, and other challenging life experiences that prevent a person from feeling at peace and operating at their highest potential. The philosophy that guides my work is that everyone has the inner wisdom needed to thrive. My role is to help clients access this inner wisdom so they can heal, grow and live the fulfilling life they are seeking.
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Photo of Dr. Norma J Schell - Norma Schell, PhD, MA, OIM, LPC,, PhD, MA, OIM, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Norma Schell, PhD, MA, OIM, LPC,
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, OIM, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Everyday life stresses, and all nature of traumas can overwhelm. Greater understanding & additional tools diminish overload. Relief of painful emotions & experiences leads to greater peace, love, joy & purpose. Feelings, emotions, dreams, images, daydreams, & physical symptoms are expressions of our whole self & contain powerful healing messages. Their meaning unlocks underlying causes to reduce ailments and discomfort. We are dynamic beings oriented toward healing and wholeness. Exploration & understanding are keys to unlocking one's powerful healing process. Never forget: you are loved, appreciated and unique in this world.
Everyday life stresses, and all nature of traumas can overwhelm. Greater understanding & additional tools diminish overload. Relief of painful emotions & experiences leads to greater peace, love, joy & purpose. Feelings, emotions, dreams, images, daydreams, & physical symptoms are expressions of our whole self & contain powerful healing messages. Their meaning unlocks underlying causes to reduce ailments and discomfort. We are dynamic beings oriented toward healing and wholeness. Exploration & understanding are keys to unlocking one's powerful healing process. Never forget: you are loved, appreciated and unique in this world.
(503) 406-6363 View (503) 406-6363
Photo of Barbara Eggenberger, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Eggenberger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
If you struggle with chronic issues and have tried other therapists and are still struggling, I may be the therapist for you. I am a specialist in accessing early trauma and clearing it through the use of brain-based therapies such as EMDR and Brainspotting. I am certified in Brainspotting and Systemic Family Constellations and trained in EMDR I/II. I combine these three methods plus my natural empathic abilities to access blockages and clear them. You will feel immediately better!
If you struggle with chronic issues and have tried other therapists and are still struggling, I may be the therapist for you. I am a specialist in accessing early trauma and clearing it through the use of brain-based therapies such as EMDR and Brainspotting. I am certified in Brainspotting and Systemic Family Constellations and trained in EMDR I/II. I combine these three methods plus my natural empathic abilities to access blockages and clear them. You will feel immediately better!
(916) 571-9297 View (916) 571-9297
Photo of Halle Smith, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Halle Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Beginning therapy can often feel like a daunting process. It is a courageous choice that requires vulnerability and curiosity. Great job on taking the first step! I utilize warmth, compassion, curiosity, and a holistic lens to create a safe, authentic therapeutic space. I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and see my role as a collaborator helping to co-author the stories of our lives. I support clients in creating more self-compassion and allowing space to navigate and overcome life's challenges, transitions, and stressors.
Beginning therapy can often feel like a daunting process. It is a courageous choice that requires vulnerability and curiosity. Great job on taking the first step! I utilize warmth, compassion, curiosity, and a holistic lens to create a safe, authentic therapeutic space. I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and see my role as a collaborator helping to co-author the stories of our lives. I support clients in creating more self-compassion and allowing space to navigate and overcome life's challenges, transitions, and stressors.
(971) 232-3277 View (971) 232-3277
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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.