Chronic Pain Therapists in Alabama

Photo of Tracy Lambrecht, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Tracy Lambrecht
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Chelsea, AL 35043
Are you a female seeking relief from chronic or unexplained pain? Distressing life events, emotional distress, and negative thought patterns can significantly impact our ability to control our physical pain. It can be so overwhelming to figure out this complex web of symptoms on your own. My goals are to help reduce your symptoms, address any underlying psychological factors that may contribute to your pain, and create specific interventions to assist you in managing your pain.
Are you a female seeking relief from chronic or unexplained pain? Distressing life events, emotional distress, and negative thought patterns can significantly impact our ability to control our physical pain. It can be so overwhelming to figure out this complex web of symptoms on your own. My goals are to help reduce your symptoms, address any underlying psychological factors that may contribute to your pain, and create specific interventions to assist you in managing your pain.
(205) 202-9685 View (205) 202-9685
Photo of Kendra Dixson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Kendra Dixson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35203
I am well acquainted with pain as I have experienced both chronic pain and emotional pain.
Awake at night, can't sleep? Tossing and turning and can't shut your thoughts off? Your relationships are suffering and no one understands the pain you are in. Emotional pain? Chronic pain? Exhausted mentally and physically? Will you ever get the help you need? Is relief possible? You need help now as quickly as possible so you can feel like yourself. You don't have time to waste. Each day you are down is another missed opportunity. You need specialized therapy from an expert who provides intensive therapy in just a few sessions to accelerate your healing and get you back to living and enjoying life again.
I am well acquainted with pain as I have experienced both chronic pain and emotional pain.
Awake at night, can't sleep? Tossing and turning and can't shut your thoughts off? Your relationships are suffering and no one understands the pain you are in. Emotional pain? Chronic pain? Exhausted mentally and physically? Will you ever get the help you need? Is relief possible? You need help now as quickly as possible so you can feel like yourself. You don't have time to waste. Each day you are down is another missed opportunity. You need specialized therapy from an expert who provides intensive therapy in just a few sessions to accelerate your healing and get you back to living and enjoying life again.
(248) 600-4543 View (248) 600-4543
Photo of William G Grall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
William G Grall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Florence, AL 35630  (Online Only)
The power in pain is unleashed when we begin the process of learning how to look inside of ourselves and toward others we trust for healing, strength, support and answers.
Everyone on occasion feels hopeless, helpless, frustrated, confused, alone, overwhelmed or even "stuck" in life, marriage, family, work, or relationships. Sometimes you just need someone to listen and understand and hope for you, your loved ones, or your current situation when you are unable or unequipped to be able to hope for or help yourself. A crisis can be defined as any situation that comes up in your life that you do not have a support network great enough to overcome on your own. If you are feeling in over your head, and unable to make it, I have great news for you . . .
The power in pain is unleashed when we begin the process of learning how to look inside of ourselves and toward others we trust for healing, strength, support and answers.
Everyone on occasion feels hopeless, helpless, frustrated, confused, alone, overwhelmed or even "stuck" in life, marriage, family, work, or relationships. Sometimes you just need someone to listen and understand and hope for you, your loved ones, or your current situation when you are unable or unequipped to be able to hope for or help yourself. A crisis can be defined as any situation that comes up in your life that you do not have a support network great enough to overcome on your own. If you are feeling in over your head, and unable to make it, I have great news for you . . .
(256) 764-3007 View (256) 764-3007
Photo of Pamela Quekemeyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Pamela Quekemeyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
These therapies can help treat emotional disturbances, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, pain, and substance abuse concerns.
Therapy is a journey into self-awareness. My private practice, Birmingham Therapy Services LLC, focuses on addressing presenting symptoms that can be a manifestation of our past and current experiences. Creating a safe environment is fundamental to therapeutic success. My role is to help the client identify what skills are needed in order for them to feel safe; this includes gathering an understanding of past and present experiences, resource building, coping skills development, psychoeducation, and discovering ones strengths. This approach is key in preparing a client's nervous system for the deep dive work.
These therapies can help treat emotional disturbances, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, pain, and substance abuse concerns.
Therapy is a journey into self-awareness. My private practice, Birmingham Therapy Services LLC, focuses on addressing presenting symptoms that can be a manifestation of our past and current experiences. Creating a safe environment is fundamental to therapeutic success. My role is to help the client identify what skills are needed in order for them to feel safe; this includes gathering an understanding of past and present experiences, resource building, coping skills development, psychoeducation, and discovering ones strengths. This approach is key in preparing a client's nervous system for the deep dive work.
(205) 928-8532 View (205) 928-8532
Photo of Neely Haynes, Counselor in Alabama
Neely Haynes
Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, SPT®
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
I see clients with needs involving emotional and mental pain that come from a variety of different pathways, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and trauma. I look to provide the client with evidenced based practices and interventions to allow the client, caregiver, and I to collaborate and determine the best pathway to growth. I see clients ranging in ages, from 3 to adulthood, and I work with relational problems, including families, divorce, blending families, and couples. I start with a Client Centered approach and integrate modalities as necessary to best serve my clients.
I see clients with needs involving emotional and mental pain that come from a variety of different pathways, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and trauma. I look to provide the client with evidenced based practices and interventions to allow the client, caregiver, and I to collaborate and determine the best pathway to growth. I see clients ranging in ages, from 3 to adulthood, and I work with relational problems, including families, divorce, blending families, and couples. I start with a Client Centered approach and integrate modalities as necessary to best serve my clients.
(938) 238-5864 View (938) 238-5864
Photo of Donald 'jay' Mulkerne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Donald 'jay' Mulkerne
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Foley, AL 36535
I utilize these approaches in treating mood disorders, behavioral issues, chronic pain and disease, child and adolescent issues, parenting skill training, and special interest problems such as anxiety, panic disorder, depression, and PTSD.
Are you experiencing distress in your life? is your marriage floundering, or are your kids out of control? Are you losing sleep nightly worrying about the future, or are you down and depressed most days feeling burdened by events from your past or current life circumstances? You need someone to talk to you can trust, but don't have anyone in your circle of family friends, or acquaintances? Please call me today for a free consultation over the phone. Let me share my approach to your difficulties that may make your days and nights easier, your marriage better, or any other difficulties bearable.
I utilize these approaches in treating mood disorders, behavioral issues, chronic pain and disease, child and adolescent issues, parenting skill training, and special interest problems such as anxiety, panic disorder, depression, and PTSD.
Are you experiencing distress in your life? is your marriage floundering, or are your kids out of control? Are you losing sleep nightly worrying about the future, or are you down and depressed most days feeling burdened by events from your past or current life circumstances? You need someone to talk to you can trust, but don't have anyone in your circle of family friends, or acquaintances? Please call me today for a free consultation over the phone. Let me share my approach to your difficulties that may make your days and nights easier, your marriage better, or any other difficulties bearable.
(251) 257-3250 View (251) 257-3250
Photo of Jay Byham Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Jay Byham Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MRE, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35802
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience in helping people manage and/or overcome mood disorders, substance abuse, chronic illness, and spiritual concerns. Assisting people in identifying the root of and finding solutions for their problems in order to allow them to live their lives to the fullest is my passion. I offer a warm and accepting environment in which I guide others in discovering solutions to their varying issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience in helping people manage and/or overcome mood disorders, substance abuse, chronic illness, and spiritual concerns. Assisting people in identifying the root of and finding solutions for their problems in order to allow them to live their lives to the fullest is my passion. I offer a warm and accepting environment in which I guide others in discovering solutions to their varying issues.
(256) 883-7031 View (256) 883-7031
Photo of The Health Sense, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
The Health Sense
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CEAP
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
We are eager to support whatever may be holding you back from the life you desire and reduce whatever pain you are experiencing.
We, at The Health Sense, value your understanding and insight as we work with you to create a healthier and more positive way forward. We understand the difficulties so many people experience and appreciate the complexity from where each individual is coming from, utilizing the strengths and supports available in order to pave a new road ahead. The Health Sense works with each client in a professional, respectful and compassionate manner.
We are eager to support whatever may be holding you back from the life you desire and reduce whatever pain you are experiencing.
We, at The Health Sense, value your understanding and insight as we work with you to create a healthier and more positive way forward. We understand the difficulties so many people experience and appreciate the complexity from where each individual is coming from, utilizing the strengths and supports available in order to pave a new road ahead. The Health Sense works with each client in a professional, respectful and compassionate manner.
(205) 506-2280 View (205) 506-2280
Photo of Pamela Hayes, Counselor in Alabama
Pamela Hayes
Counselor, LMSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35213
Sometimes we get stuck. We may find ourselves repeating familiar patterns that, while fiercely self-protective, no longer serve us in the present moment. We may not be able to find our sense of safety and connection which can leave us feeling hopeless for a brighter future. I want to reassure you that despite what might feel like relentless suffering, there is always hope for healing. Together, we can explore ways to reconnect with the body’s innate wisdom, fostering a sense of safety regardless of past experiences. I specialize in C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and chronic pain.
Sometimes we get stuck. We may find ourselves repeating familiar patterns that, while fiercely self-protective, no longer serve us in the present moment. We may not be able to find our sense of safety and connection which can leave us feeling hopeless for a brighter future. I want to reassure you that despite what might feel like relentless suffering, there is always hope for healing. Together, we can explore ways to reconnect with the body’s innate wisdom, fostering a sense of safety regardless of past experiences. I specialize in C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and chronic pain.
(659) 234-2158 View (659) 234-2158
Photo of Heather M Gibbon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Heather M Gibbon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harvest, AL 35749
I believe in meeting a person where they are and standing by them while they determine where they want to be and how to get there. I have worked with adoptive and birth families, children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience with issues related to anxiety, aging, chronic illness, family of origin, and trauma. I believe in building a person up by helping them recognize their strengths and inner resources. It is a privilege to witness and take part in a person's transformation. My goal is to assist however possible and celebrate every success along the path of change.
I believe in meeting a person where they are and standing by them while they determine where they want to be and how to get there. I have worked with adoptive and birth families, children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience with issues related to anxiety, aging, chronic illness, family of origin, and trauma. I believe in building a person up by helping them recognize their strengths and inner resources. It is a privilege to witness and take part in a person's transformation. My goal is to assist however possible and celebrate every success along the path of change.
(256) 472-2902 View (256) 472-2902
Photo of Compass Rose Behavioral Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Compass Rose Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, LICSW-S, PIP
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405  (Online Only)
Known for mywork with those coping with addictions, anxiety, childhood trauma, chronic illness, depression, grief and loss, parenting difficulties (including parenting a neuro-atypical or neuro-diverse child), relationship issues.
Compass Rose Behavioral Health was established to guide and support your unique life journey by helping you discover yourself, and your purpose as your life changes directions. I believe orthodox approaches to traditional mental health are cookie cutter and go for a more individualized approach. I am committed to customizing your experience, educating you, being honest and practical. All we ask is that you trust the process. In return you will learn how to: build your resilience and develop strategies to effectively manage and/or overcome obstacles.
Known for mywork with those coping with addictions, anxiety, childhood trauma, chronic illness, depression, grief and loss, parenting difficulties (including parenting a neuro-atypical or neuro-diverse child), relationship issues.
Compass Rose Behavioral Health was established to guide and support your unique life journey by helping you discover yourself, and your purpose as your life changes directions. I believe orthodox approaches to traditional mental health are cookie cutter and go for a more individualized approach. I am committed to customizing your experience, educating you, being honest and practical. All we ask is that you trust the process. In return you will learn how to: build your resilience and develop strategies to effectively manage and/or overcome obstacles.
(205) 751-2970 View (205) 751-2970
Photo of Heather Leigh Larson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Heather Leigh Larson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
As a Counselor and Certified Yoga Instructor, I assist clients in addressing anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, and stress, while occasionally assimilating yoga concepts into counseling with incredible results in those seeking to more effectively manage these issues.
Insight, motivation, purpose. These three words describe how I can help. Are you looking to gain insight into your struggles? Motivation to grow and get better as a person? Looking for someone to come along side you in your journey to find purpose in life? We can work together as your story unfolds, taking your past and present experiences to make a plan for a healthy, fulfilling, more purposeful future. We can work together to identify and practice techniques and skills that will benefit you and help you to thrive in your relationships and in life.
As a Counselor and Certified Yoga Instructor, I assist clients in addressing anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, and stress, while occasionally assimilating yoga concepts into counseling with incredible results in those seeking to more effectively manage these issues.
Insight, motivation, purpose. These three words describe how I can help. Are you looking to gain insight into your struggles? Motivation to grow and get better as a person? Looking for someone to come along side you in your journey to find purpose in life? We can work together as your story unfolds, taking your past and present experiences to make a plan for a healthy, fulfilling, more purposeful future. We can work together to identify and practice techniques and skills that will benefit you and help you to thrive in your relationships and in life.
(205) 767-7461 View (205) 767-7461
Photo of Dr. Charles T. Rubio, Psychologist in Alabama
Dr. Charles T. Rubio
Psychologist, PhD, PC
Verified Verified
Opelika, AL 36801
Drawing from a range of modalities including stress and pain management, and mindfulness, his treatment approach integrates both cognitive-behavioral techniques and psychodynamic theory.
For more than 25 years Dr, Rubio has counseled adults, adolescents, couples, and families. Helping college students adjust to living away from home has been a particularly rewarding part of his practice. Dr. Rubio also collaborates with local attorneys to provide psychological services for alcohol and drug related offenses, and anger management issues.Since 1993, he has served as psychological consultant to Lyman Ward Military Academy, a military boarding school.
Drawing from a range of modalities including stress and pain management, and mindfulness, his treatment approach integrates both cognitive-behavioral techniques and psychodynamic theory.
For more than 25 years Dr, Rubio has counseled adults, adolescents, couples, and families. Helping college students adjust to living away from home has been a particularly rewarding part of his practice. Dr. Rubio also collaborates with local attorneys to provide psychological services for alcohol and drug related offenses, and anger management issues.Since 1993, he has served as psychological consultant to Lyman Ward Military Academy, a military boarding school.
(334) 267-7174 View (334) 267-7174
Photo of Integrative Health Services, LLC in Alabama
Integrative Health Services, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pelham, AL 35124
Treatment includes but is not limited to depression, health issues such as autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, anxiety, grief, LGBTQ issues, alternate lifestyles, ADHD, behavioral issues, at risk teens, addictions, as well as pre-marital, marriage, divorce and co-parenting.
SATURDAY OPENINGS AVAILABLE and ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Integrative Health Services, LLC focuses on treating the mind, body, and spirit. Everyone is not the same and therefore, treatment is tailored to fit the individual needs of each person. Overall health and well-being are strongly encouraged while receiving mental health treatment. This is why Integrative Health Services keeps a unique referral list of highly qualified primary care doctors, massage therapists, holistic doctors/herbalists, yoga therapy instructors, psychiatrists, rheumatologists, personal trainers and many others that promote overall health and well-being.
Treatment includes but is not limited to depression, health issues such as autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, anxiety, grief, LGBTQ issues, alternate lifestyles, ADHD, behavioral issues, at risk teens, addictions, as well as pre-marital, marriage, divorce and co-parenting.
SATURDAY OPENINGS AVAILABLE and ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Integrative Health Services, LLC focuses on treating the mind, body, and spirit. Everyone is not the same and therefore, treatment is tailored to fit the individual needs of each person. Overall health and well-being are strongly encouraged while receiving mental health treatment. This is why Integrative Health Services keeps a unique referral list of highly qualified primary care doctors, massage therapists, holistic doctors/herbalists, yoga therapy instructors, psychiatrists, rheumatologists, personal trainers and many others that promote overall health and well-being.
(833) 567-3538 View (833) 567-3538
Photo of Mona Ochoa-Horshok, M.S., LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Mona Ochoa-Horshok, M.S., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
With 30 years of experience in the mental health field, I am equipped to work with people from all walks of life with a large variety of issues. Whether you are dealing with relationship problems, panic and/or anxiety, depression or other mood disorders, low self-esteem, eating disorders, sexual identity issues, chronic pain or spiritual or existential questions, or just want to feel more fulfilled and self-aware, I would love to work with you to help you achieve a better quality of life and a happier state of being.
With 30 years of experience in the mental health field, I am equipped to work with people from all walks of life with a large variety of issues. Whether you are dealing with relationship problems, panic and/or anxiety, depression or other mood disorders, low self-esteem, eating disorders, sexual identity issues, chronic pain or spiritual or existential questions, or just want to feel more fulfilled and self-aware, I would love to work with you to help you achieve a better quality of life and a happier state of being.
(205) 588-6178 View (205) 588-6178
Photo of Amanda Pratt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Amanda Pratt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242  (Online Only)
Perhaps you've been recently diagnosed with a long term illness or you've had symptoms for so long you don’t recognize yourself anymore. You know these health struggles are somehow behind your depressed and anxious feelings, and you feel alone…like no one understands. Right now, you may have more questions than answers, but one thing you know for sure is that you’d do anything to get your life back. You grieve for the person you used to be and find it hard to imagine yourself living a worthwhile life with this illness trying to drag you down every chance it gets. (Due to demand, I ONLY accept clients with chronic illness concerns)
Perhaps you've been recently diagnosed with a long term illness or you've had symptoms for so long you don’t recognize yourself anymore. You know these health struggles are somehow behind your depressed and anxious feelings, and you feel alone…like no one understands. Right now, you may have more questions than answers, but one thing you know for sure is that you’d do anything to get your life back. You grieve for the person you used to be and find it hard to imagine yourself living a worthwhile life with this illness trying to drag you down every chance it gets. (Due to demand, I ONLY accept clients with chronic illness concerns)
(727) 353-0729 View (727) 353-0729
Photo of Shannon S Crenshaw, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Shannon S Crenshaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
(205) 583-0367 View (205) 583-0367
Photo of Jessica McDonald, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Jessica McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36609
Life can be a bumpy road. The path we take can lead us to happiness or to despair. Making a wrong turn, not knowing which way to go or reaching what seems like a dead end is not the end of your journey. Sometimes we all need help getting to where we want to be. As a therapist, I help make your journey a more positive one. Grief or trauma can hinder you from moving forward. The loss of a loved one, job, relationship, pregnancy or even your life before illness or change can cause feelings of grief. Counseling helps work through the pain of your trauma or loss to experience joy again. The life you want is within reach.
Life can be a bumpy road. The path we take can lead us to happiness or to despair. Making a wrong turn, not knowing which way to go or reaching what seems like a dead end is not the end of your journey. Sometimes we all need help getting to where we want to be. As a therapist, I help make your journey a more positive one. Grief or trauma can hinder you from moving forward. The loss of a loved one, job, relationship, pregnancy or even your life before illness or change can cause feelings of grief. Counseling helps work through the pain of your trauma or loss to experience joy again. The life you want is within reach.
(251) 302-1693 View (251) 302-1693
Photo of Paul Swaim-Sanders, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Paul Swaim-Sanders
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36606
I work with LGBTQ+, life-stage transition, dysphoria, pain, adjustment, anxiety, depression, couples, sexual issues and substance use.
I practice a holistic approach to therapy where you and I work together to help you as a whole person, not just one concern. I believe in reinforcing what strengths you already have while challenging which patterns slow down or stop progress or growth. There's no "right or wrong, good or bad" in addressing concerns. There's what works and what doesn't. Together, we can find what works to do more of it, and less of what doesn't.
I work with LGBTQ+, life-stage transition, dysphoria, pain, adjustment, anxiety, depression, couples, sexual issues and substance use.
I practice a holistic approach to therapy where you and I work together to help you as a whole person, not just one concern. I believe in reinforcing what strengths you already have while challenging which patterns slow down or stop progress or growth. There's no "right or wrong, good or bad" in addressing concerns. There's what works and what doesn't. Together, we can find what works to do more of it, and less of what doesn't.
(251) 237-7133 View (251) 237-7133
Photo of Alena Porter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Alena Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Auburn, AL 36830  (Online Only)
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence. Ideally, sex makes us feel happy, loved, and connected. Yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you avoided talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Have you ever had a sexual encounter that was other than consentual but you didn't know who to talk to or even what to say about it? If so, I can help you work through your thoughts and feelings about sex and sexual experiences
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence. Ideally, sex makes us feel happy, loved, and connected. Yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you avoided talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Have you ever had a sexual encounter that was other than consentual but you didn't know who to talk to or even what to say about it? If so, I can help you work through your thoughts and feelings about sex and sexual experiences
(256) 300-6088 View (256) 300-6088
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.