Photo of Deborah M Gonzales, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, CHT, CFSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah M Gonzales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, CHT, CFSW
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
ALL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOW VIA TELE-HEALTH to clients anywhere in Alaska, N.C. or FL https://youtu.be/3rgHRqrzuEg Are you stressed out, anxious? Overwhelmed? Struggling with perfection? Do you deal with chronic pain or illness? Are you having communication problems with your partner? Is your plate too full and are you struggling to keep up? I PROMISE to respond to your Email and/or request for an appointment in less than 24 hours. When you reach out for help, you deserve to be heard and respected with a timely response.
ALL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOW VIA TELE-HEALTH to clients anywhere in Alaska, N.C. or FL https://youtu.be/3rgHRqrzuEg Are you stressed out, anxious? Overwhelmed? Struggling with perfection? Do you deal with chronic pain or illness? Are you having communication problems with your partner? Is your plate too full and are you struggling to keep up? I PROMISE to respond to your Email and/or request for an appointment in less than 24 hours. When you reach out for help, you deserve to be heard and respected with a timely response.
(907) 891-8699 View (907) 891-8699
Photo of Jeanne Brady - Soul Sanctuary Healing & Wellness, Jeanne Brady, PsyD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Soul Sanctuary Healing & Wellness, Jeanne Brady
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503
I specialized in treating PTSD, sexual & complex trauma, personality disorders, chronic pain, mood disorders, stress, impulse control, and sleep disturbances.
It’s time to PAUSE, HEAL, and LIVE. We may find ourselves just existing or wrestling through our day, instead of really living. We may question what is our worth, or if we are living an authentic life. Allow me to share the journey of your discovery towards finding purpose and meaning. I am a passionate, grateful, compassionate, flawed, human being, seeking to contribute to the growth and wellness of any who desire to journey this thing we call life. My aim is to help you meet your goals and needs, and discover hidden strengths and values that makes life worth living by using strategies grounded in best practices and evidence-based.
I specialized in treating PTSD, sexual & complex trauma, personality disorders, chronic pain, mood disorders, stress, impulse control, and sleep disturbances.
It’s time to PAUSE, HEAL, and LIVE. We may find ourselves just existing or wrestling through our day, instead of really living. We may question what is our worth, or if we are living an authentic life. Allow me to share the journey of your discovery towards finding purpose and meaning. I am a passionate, grateful, compassionate, flawed, human being, seeking to contribute to the growth and wellness of any who desire to journey this thing we call life. My aim is to help you meet your goals and needs, and discover hidden strengths and values that makes life worth living by using strategies grounded in best practices and evidence-based.
(855) 573-4980 View (855) 573-4980
Photo of Nathaniel Oliver, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nathaniel Oliver
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
He specializes in treating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, chronic illness, stress, compulsive behaviors (such as eating, cutting, sex, gambling) and couples.
Hailing from Wooster, Ohio, Nathaniel has called Alaska home since 2004. He has a Master of Arts in Counseling and a heart for helping people connect to their partners, families, and other vital people in their lives. He has 19 years of experience helping clients explore and improve their relational dynamics and personal struggles. Nathaniel is dedicated to tailoring his services to meet the specific needs of his clients.
He specializes in treating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, chronic illness, stress, compulsive behaviors (such as eating, cutting, sex, gambling) and couples.
Hailing from Wooster, Ohio, Nathaniel has called Alaska home since 2004. He has a Master of Arts in Counseling and a heart for helping people connect to their partners, families, and other vital people in their lives. He has 19 years of experience helping clients explore and improve their relational dynamics and personal struggles. Nathaniel is dedicated to tailoring his services to meet the specific needs of his clients.
(907) 201-0177 View (907) 201-0177
Photo of Colleen Nusbaum, LCSW, CDCI, LPC Sup, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Nusbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDCI, LPC Sup
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Soldotna, AK 99669
I have worked with individual’s ages two years to 90 years old with depression, anxiety, intellectual/physical disabilities, military individuals/families, child welfare, co-occurring substance use disorders, children, couples, severe mental illness, mood disorders, brain injury, divorce, suicide, self harm, trauma, and provided expert testimony in courts.
I was born in Anchorage, Alaska and have lived on the Kenai Peninsula with my mother, husband and two daughters since 2005. Since 2010, I’ve dedicated myself to mental/behavioral health challenges and teamed with my clients in order to help them achieve healthy/balanced personal lives and relationships. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and member of the Kenai Peninsula Community, I’m deeply committed to being there when you need me most—helping you explore, heal, and move forward into a happy and healthy mindset. I work with all ages from 2 years to our elders. I'm here for you, get in touch and book your session today...
I have worked with individual’s ages two years to 90 years old with depression, anxiety, intellectual/physical disabilities, military individuals/families, child welfare, co-occurring substance use disorders, children, couples, severe mental illness, mood disorders, brain injury, divorce, suicide, self harm, trauma, and provided expert testimony in courts.
I was born in Anchorage, Alaska and have lived on the Kenai Peninsula with my mother, husband and two daughters since 2005. Since 2010, I’ve dedicated myself to mental/behavioral health challenges and teamed with my clients in order to help them achieve healthy/balanced personal lives and relationships. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and member of the Kenai Peninsula Community, I’m deeply committed to being there when you need me most—helping you explore, heal, and move forward into a happy and healthy mindset. I work with all ages from 2 years to our elders. I'm here for you, get in touch and book your session today...
(907) 394-4442 View (907) 394-4442
Photo of Sayaka Maas - Kokoro Counseling Alaska, LLC, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kokoro Counseling Alaska, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, postpartum, substance use problems, relationship issues, chronic illness, grief, and stress issues.
Evening and weekend hours are available for Telehealth. Office Hours: Sundays through Thursdays ( 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm). Please send an inquiry or request to have a free 15-minute FREE phone consultation. If you are hurting, fearful, confused, sad, stressed, or surrounded by overwhelming things in life, I am here to guide you through; to cultivate and reconnect with your innate strength to heal your wounds and live a quality life. My focus is to work collaboratively with you to find a unique and individualized process or solution that would take you further along in your healing journey.
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, postpartum, substance use problems, relationship issues, chronic illness, grief, and stress issues.
Evening and weekend hours are available for Telehealth. Office Hours: Sundays through Thursdays ( 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm). Please send an inquiry or request to have a free 15-minute FREE phone consultation. If you are hurting, fearful, confused, sad, stressed, or surrounded by overwhelming things in life, I am here to guide you through; to cultivate and reconnect with your innate strength to heal your wounds and live a quality life. My focus is to work collaboratively with you to find a unique and individualized process or solution that would take you further along in your healing journey.
(907) 318-8601 View (907) 318-8601
Photo of Breanna James, OTD, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist
Breanna James
Occupational Therapist, OTD, OTR/L
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99517  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Examples of interventions include: Energy conservation; Management of musculoskeletal conditions, including pain; self-care retraining; and modifying environments to maximize everyday performance.
Are you an adult with autism or ADHD who struggles with everyday activities? Do you want to implement healthy habits and routines into your daily life, but don't know where to start? Does sensory overload make it difficult for you to go to work, parent, and have fun? Or do you want to create a daily routine that makes you feel fulfilled and not burnt out? I am a board certified occupational therapist with specialty trainings, certifications, and experience in treating neurological conditions (i.e. traumatic brain injury; stroke), chronic illnesses, and mental conditions (i.e. autism, ADHD).
Examples of interventions include: Energy conservation; Management of musculoskeletal conditions, including pain; self-care retraining; and modifying environments to maximize everyday performance.
Are you an adult with autism or ADHD who struggles with everyday activities? Do you want to implement healthy habits and routines into your daily life, but don't know where to start? Does sensory overload make it difficult for you to go to work, parent, and have fun? Or do you want to create a daily routine that makes you feel fulfilled and not burnt out? I am a board certified occupational therapist with specialty trainings, certifications, and experience in treating neurological conditions (i.e. traumatic brain injury; stroke), chronic illnesses, and mental conditions (i.e. autism, ADHD).
(907) 531-9443 View (907) 531-9443
Photo of Tamar Boyd, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamar Boyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Juneau, AK 99801  (Online Only)
As a Doctor of Psychology, I'm honored to teach my clients how to be their own therapist. I work with my clients to acknowledge and understand the patterns of mind-body union (thinking, feeling, behaving patterns) that may be causing stagnation and pain. I teach clients the self-governance skills necessary to discipline the nervous system, manage thinking and feeling patterns, and direct behavioral outcomes to align with a desired / ideal version of self. The transformative nature of this work is evident in one's felt and lived daily experience.
As a Doctor of Psychology, I'm honored to teach my clients how to be their own therapist. I work with my clients to acknowledge and understand the patterns of mind-body union (thinking, feeling, behaving patterns) that may be causing stagnation and pain. I teach clients the self-governance skills necessary to discipline the nervous system, manage thinking and feeling patterns, and direct behavioral outcomes to align with a desired / ideal version of self. The transformative nature of this work is evident in one's felt and lived daily experience.
(855) 696-0074 View (855) 696-0074
Photo of Tammy Foster Harban - Seasons Change Counseling, MS, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Seasons Change Counseling
Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairbanks, AK 99701  (Online Only)
I know you are in pain, you are feeling alone and you might feel stuck.
If you are looking for a change in your life - this is it. We all have seasons in our life where it is hard to manage, hard to deal with, and hard to figure out on our own. Sometimes we just can't cope with all the challenges of daily life and need someone to help navigate and offer a fresh new look. Doesn't matter what you are looking for, we can problem-solve it together and get you feeling better soon!
I know you are in pain, you are feeling alone and you might feel stuck.
If you are looking for a change in your life - this is it. We all have seasons in our life where it is hard to manage, hard to deal with, and hard to figure out on our own. Sometimes we just can't cope with all the challenges of daily life and need someone to help navigate and offer a fresh new look. Doesn't matter what you are looking for, we can problem-solve it together and get you feeling better soon!
(907) 318-7067 View (907) 318-7067
Photo of Lawrence Whitaker, LPC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lawrence Whitaker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Accepting telehealth clients. Really enjoy helping others find relief & working with all types of issues whether it be a life change or lingering relationship issues, I am excited to work with you. I have been lucky enough to have worked in a variety of settings giving me unique insight to critical life situations such as: divorce, loss of a loved one, legal issues, family members with severe mental illness. Master’s Level Licensed Mental Health Professional letter for emotional support animal-related services (assessments and therapeutic counseling) for adults.
Accepting telehealth clients. Really enjoy helping others find relief & working with all types of issues whether it be a life change or lingering relationship issues, I am excited to work with you. I have been lucky enough to have worked in a variety of settings giving me unique insight to critical life situations such as: divorce, loss of a loved one, legal issues, family members with severe mental illness. Master’s Level Licensed Mental Health Professional letter for emotional support animal-related services (assessments and therapeutic counseling) for adults.
(844) 491-2008 View (844) 491-2008
Photo of Heather Caldwell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Caldwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
Life can get overwhelming and it's easy to feel lost, anxious, and/or depressed, bogged down with busy schedules, work issues, childhood trauma, chronic pain, relationship/intimacy conflicts, complicated parent and/or child relationships, questioning one's identity or coming into one's sexuality - and well, it can feel like too much! These compounding stressors impact our ability to connect with ourselves and with others, as well as our ability to lead satisfying and full lives. My hope is that together, you can (re)discover your path to a fulfilled and integrated life by embodying your emotional, spiritual, and creative self.
Life can get overwhelming and it's easy to feel lost, anxious, and/or depressed, bogged down with busy schedules, work issues, childhood trauma, chronic pain, relationship/intimacy conflicts, complicated parent and/or child relationships, questioning one's identity or coming into one's sexuality - and well, it can feel like too much! These compounding stressors impact our ability to connect with ourselves and with others, as well as our ability to lead satisfying and full lives. My hope is that together, you can (re)discover your path to a fulfilled and integrated life by embodying your emotional, spiritual, and creative self.
(888) 564-0124 View (888) 564-0124
Photo of K. Bryan McInnis, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
K. Bryan McInnis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
Waitlist for new clients
I help people whose lives have been impacted by trauma find hope, healing, and transformation. The impact of trauma can be seen in nearly every aspect of the human experience, manifest in our mind, body, emotions, relationships, and our deepest sense of self. If you are struggling with emotional distress, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, feeling numb or disconnected from life, or hidden in the shadow of grief and loss, the truth is that you are not alone and healing is possible.
I help people whose lives have been impacted by trauma find hope, healing, and transformation. The impact of trauma can be seen in nearly every aspect of the human experience, manifest in our mind, body, emotions, relationships, and our deepest sense of self. If you are struggling with emotional distress, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, feeling numb or disconnected from life, or hidden in the shadow of grief and loss, the truth is that you are not alone and healing is possible.
(844) 818-0721 View (844) 818-0721
Photo of Nicole Zegiestowsky - Nicole Zegiestowsky, M.S. (she/her), MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nicole Zegiestowsky, M.S. (she/her)
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99515  (Online Only)
Is living with a chronic illness (or new health diagnosis) becoming more difficult, isolating, or confusing? Are you or your partner expecting a new family member? Are you seeking relief, meaning, validation, new coping skills? My name is Nicole, I believe you are the expert of your life and my role as a therapist is that of a helper (not a fixer). I am passionate about working with Alaskans who wish to do more than "get by;" those who desire to flourish, find ease in self-compassion, & strike a balance between productivity & rest to promote well-being. I often work with: anxiety, PTSD, poor sleep, ADHD/Autism, & low energy levels
Is living with a chronic illness (or new health diagnosis) becoming more difficult, isolating, or confusing? Are you or your partner expecting a new family member? Are you seeking relief, meaning, validation, new coping skills? My name is Nicole, I believe you are the expert of your life and my role as a therapist is that of a helper (not a fixer). I am passionate about working with Alaskans who wish to do more than "get by;" those who desire to flourish, find ease in self-compassion, & strike a balance between productivity & rest to promote well-being. I often work with: anxiety, PTSD, poor sleep, ADHD/Autism, & low energy levels
(907) 744-7026 View (907) 744-7026
Photo of Michael DeMolina - Wisdom Traditions Counseling & Wellness, PhD, LPCS, CDCS, MAC, Counselor
Wisdom Traditions Counseling & Wellness
Counselor, PhD, LPCS, CDCS, MAC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99518
The world grows more complex every day, changing how we live our lives, and it's bringing up a lot of stress and anxiety. We get it. The Wisdom Team provides highly respectful, confidential and individualized treatment choices for you or your family member. We also have counselors specifically dedicated for marriage and family issues. Our Addiction Recovery program is nationally accredited, and provides a warm, informal and rewarding experience for personal growth. We are in this together. Our vision is to positively impact our community; one person...one family at a time.
The world grows more complex every day, changing how we live our lives, and it's bringing up a lot of stress and anxiety. We get it. The Wisdom Team provides highly respectful, confidential and individualized treatment choices for you or your family member. We also have counselors specifically dedicated for marriage and family issues. Our Addiction Recovery program is nationally accredited, and provides a warm, informal and rewarding experience for personal growth. We are in this together. Our vision is to positively impact our community; one person...one family at a time.
(907) 770-3656 View (907) 770-3656
Photo of Angela Khessed; Alaska Washington Montana And Idaho, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Khessed; Alaska Washington Montana And Idaho
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sitka, AK 99835  (Online Only)
In the end, it is not the mountain that you must master, but yourself. Adapted from Edmund Hillary
In the end, it is not the mountain that you must master, but yourself. Adapted from Edmund Hillary
(907) 738-9088 View (907) 738-9088
Photo of Lou, MA, ATR-P, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lou Lou
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654
Do you feel “too much” or often misunderstood? Are you grappling with anxiety, identity struggles, or difficult relationships? Are you looking for an accepting space to explore these feelings? I work with individuals and couples, especially in the LGBTQ+ community, providing an encouraging space prioritizing inclusivity and authenticity. You may be on a journey to reclaim your voice, or find healthier ways to connect with others. Together, we’ll navigate these challenges with insights that lead to healing. My approach integrates psychotherapy, art, and nature to foster resilience and empower you to create a life that's true to you.
Do you feel “too much” or often misunderstood? Are you grappling with anxiety, identity struggles, or difficult relationships? Are you looking for an accepting space to explore these feelings? I work with individuals and couples, especially in the LGBTQ+ community, providing an encouraging space prioritizing inclusivity and authenticity. You may be on a journey to reclaim your voice, or find healthier ways to connect with others. Together, we’ll navigate these challenges with insights that lead to healing. My approach integrates psychotherapy, art, and nature to foster resilience and empower you to create a life that's true to you.
(907) 759-8426 View (907) 759-8426
Photo of Lynne Kelsey - Lynne (Ann) Kelsey, LPC Supervisor AK-Psychodynami, LPC, MA, EMDR, DBT, CBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynne (Ann) Kelsey, LPC Supervisor AK-Psychodynami
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, EMDR, DBT, CBT
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
Respectful, supportive, positive CBT THERAPY, insight oriented, life coaching, wellness consulting, communication/problem solving and symptom mgt. for performance techniques with results. Regain control, improve relationships, communication, problem solving, work/career or sport. Brief intensive skill building tools for success. Strength based, personality specific Goal and objective setting. Be independent, yet patient; journal and homework", appreciation for incremental gains. Your individual uniqueness, intuition and inner guidance system are valued, so fine tune those To work well for you. Mind, body, spirit appreciated. Disabilities infant mental health young children. couples, marital, sex counseling, addictions, porn, horse therapy. Trauma specialist, anxiety, depression.
Respectful, supportive, positive CBT THERAPY, insight oriented, life coaching, wellness consulting, communication/problem solving and symptom mgt. for performance techniques with results. Regain control, improve relationships, communication, problem solving, work/career or sport. Brief intensive skill building tools for success. Strength based, personality specific Goal and objective setting. Be independent, yet patient; journal and homework", appreciation for incremental gains. Your individual uniqueness, intuition and inner guidance system are valued, so fine tune those To work well for you. Mind, body, spirit appreciated. Disabilities infant mental health young children. couples, marital, sex counseling, addictions, porn, horse therapy. Trauma specialist, anxiety, depression.
(907) 318-7841 View (907) 318-7841
Photo of Meg Wright, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meg Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Homer, AK 99603
Life is tough! We all face challenges and experience struggle in our lives. Sometimes we need reminding we have the capacity to overcome our challenges and manage our struggles. Therapy is a great opportunity to gain new insight and perspective, find meaning, increase skills, increase self-worth and self-confidence, and connect with someone, a guide, who will walk the wellness journey with you on your path to greater health. My background working with adolescents and families in rural and not-so-rural communities across Alaska provides me with unique insight and expertise to support you as you navigate your wellness journey.
Life is tough! We all face challenges and experience struggle in our lives. Sometimes we need reminding we have the capacity to overcome our challenges and manage our struggles. Therapy is a great opportunity to gain new insight and perspective, find meaning, increase skills, increase self-worth and self-confidence, and connect with someone, a guide, who will walk the wellness journey with you on your path to greater health. My background working with adolescents and families in rural and not-so-rural communities across Alaska provides me with unique insight and expertise to support you as you navigate your wellness journey.
(907) 931-6930 View (907) 931-6930
Photo of Suzanne DuMond, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne DuMond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Soldotna, AK 99669
Do life’s twists and turns have you feeling depressed, overwhelmed or anxious? Are negative thoughts interfering with your relationships and keeping you from moving forward in life? Are you seeking greater peace, clarity and joy? Navigating distressing emotions can be so challenging in a world that perhaps has not embraced and valued your inner experience. There are times in life when having the support of a skilled and compassionate professional is the needed catalyst to propel your growth forward.
Do life’s twists and turns have you feeling depressed, overwhelmed or anxious? Are negative thoughts interfering with your relationships and keeping you from moving forward in life? Are you seeking greater peace, clarity and joy? Navigating distressing emotions can be so challenging in a world that perhaps has not embraced and valued your inner experience. There are times in life when having the support of a skilled and compassionate professional is the needed catalyst to propel your growth forward.
(907) 341-4222 View (907) 341-4222
Photo of Shanna S. Simmons, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shanna S. Simmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99518
I enjoy working with individuals who are ready to take positive steps towards growth and healing. This may include: processing traumas; developing self-awareness; learning about your strengths; and/or changing behaviors, thoughts, coping mechanisms, or interpersonal patterns which are no longer working for you.
I enjoy working with individuals who are ready to take positive steps towards growth and healing. This may include: processing traumas; developing self-awareness; learning about your strengths; and/or changing behaviors, thoughts, coping mechanisms, or interpersonal patterns which are no longer working for you.
(907) 205-7887 View (907) 205-7887
Photo of Michael Aanavi, PhD, LAC, Psychologist
Michael Aanavi
Psychologist, PhD, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99501
As a psychologist, licensed acupuncturist, and master addiction counselor, I offer an array of possibilities for people with concerns of mind, body, and spirit: psychotherapy, acupuncture, intuitive and energy medicine, qigong and somatic therapies, addiction recovery, meditation and other contemplative and imaginal practices. With an emphasis on trauma and intergenerational (generational) trauma, I work with people with emotional, physical, interpersonal, spiritual, and mind-body concerns of all kinds, drawing on Jungian, existential, and relational psychologies as well as on the Buddhist and contemplative psychology and practice.
As a psychologist, licensed acupuncturist, and master addiction counselor, I offer an array of possibilities for people with concerns of mind, body, and spirit: psychotherapy, acupuncture, intuitive and energy medicine, qigong and somatic therapies, addiction recovery, meditation and other contemplative and imaginal practices. With an emphasis on trauma and intergenerational (generational) trauma, I work with people with emotional, physical, interpersonal, spiritual, and mind-body concerns of all kinds, drawing on Jungian, existential, and relational psychologies as well as on the Buddhist and contemplative psychology and practice.
(833) 468-0721 View (833) 468-0721
1
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.