Chronic Pain Therapists in Pine Bluff, AR

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Online Therapists

Photo of Tara V DeJohn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pine Bluff, AR
Tara V DeJohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Little Rock, AR 72114
Waitlist for new clients
Do you usually feel like you don't belong, don't fit in, or worry about being good enough, doing well enough, etc? Do you have a complex trauma history? Are you fighting through treatment for a chronic/catastrophic illness or caring for someone who is? Do you experience shame and/or guilt despite the evidence that you're doing/have done the best you can? I welcome the privilege to walk alongside you towards healing and wholeness, towards deconstructing society's pressures that block healing.
Do you usually feel like you don't belong, don't fit in, or worry about being good enough, doing well enough, etc? Do you have a complex trauma history? Are you fighting through treatment for a chronic/catastrophic illness or caring for someone who is? Do you experience shame and/or guilt despite the evidence that you're doing/have done the best you can? I welcome the privilege to walk alongside you towards healing and wholeness, towards deconstructing society's pressures that block healing.
(501) 600-2630 x9 View (501) 600-2630 x9
Photo of Gail Maurer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pine Bluff, AR
Gail Maurer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Hot Springs Village, AR 71909
I serve older adults in times of transition and change. I know the pain of dealing with anxiety and depression, grief and loss, and not feeling secure as you age. I help you feel supported as you put the pieces of your life back together again. I guide you through a process of creating coping strategies that work for you so you can get on with the business of living your life. I encourage you to make lifestyle decisions that bring about a sense of comfort and relief for a happier and healthier future. Together, we will find the things in life you want the most. Getting older can be freeing. Please call today to find out more.
I serve older adults in times of transition and change. I know the pain of dealing with anxiety and depression, grief and loss, and not feeling secure as you age. I help you feel supported as you put the pieces of your life back together again. I guide you through a process of creating coping strategies that work for you so you can get on with the business of living your life. I encourage you to make lifestyle decisions that bring about a sense of comfort and relief for a happier and healthier future. Together, we will find the things in life you want the most. Getting older can be freeing. Please call today to find out more.
(501) 290-4479 View (501) 290-4479
Photo of Jeannie Fetting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pine Bluff, AR
Jeannie Fetting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Benton, AR 72015
Stop the Pain. Do you worry that others can see that you are barely hanging on despite your best efforts? Sometimes accomplished people feel they are crumbling under the strain of expectations they have for themselves. You do not need to feel this way. Depression, anxiety and chronic pain do not have to control every waking minute of your life. There is help and hope.
Stop the Pain. Do you worry that others can see that you are barely hanging on despite your best efforts? Sometimes accomplished people feel they are crumbling under the strain of expectations they have for themselves. You do not need to feel this way. Depression, anxiety and chronic pain do not have to control every waking minute of your life. There is help and hope.
(501) 725-6457 View (501) 725-6457
Photo of Beth White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pine Bluff, AR
Beth White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72207
Maybe you experience chronic pain (from CPRS/RSD, Fibromyalgia, headaches, cancer, etc).
Have you decided it’s time to conquer your fear & reclaim your life? If you experience strong fear in specific situations which you logically know are reasonably safe but just can’t get past, I’m glad you’re here. I'm a seasoned therapist specializing in brief therapy for specific phobias & chronic pain. Whether the situation you fear is a “routine” medical appointment, injection, heights, being near a certain type of animal/insect, or something else, I want you to know that relief is possible & treatment needn't be harsh. Ask me about my compassionate approach to phobia therapy. With the right support & treatment, you can do this.
Maybe you experience chronic pain (from CPRS/RSD, Fibromyalgia, headaches, cancer, etc).
Have you decided it’s time to conquer your fear & reclaim your life? If you experience strong fear in specific situations which you logically know are reasonably safe but just can’t get past, I’m glad you’re here. I'm a seasoned therapist specializing in brief therapy for specific phobias & chronic pain. Whether the situation you fear is a “routine” medical appointment, injection, heights, being near a certain type of animal/insect, or something else, I want you to know that relief is possible & treatment needn't be harsh. Ask me about my compassionate approach to phobia therapy. With the right support & treatment, you can do this.
(501) 441-4200 View (501) 441-4200
Photo of Kelly Steed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pine Bluff, AR
Kelly Steed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbrier, AR 72058
The human experience can be challenging at times, but can also be beautiful and meaningful. Learning that both are normal parts of the journey can be empowering and allow one to reach our dreams and goals by overcoming the blocks and pain that keep us from reaching those dreams. We can learn to grow through pain, enjoy moments of pure joy and build community. I am a Licensed Masters Social Work, Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor, Equine Therapist and Certified Thanatologist along with EMDR training. I have worked with a wide variety of clients over the course of my 23-year career.
The human experience can be challenging at times, but can also be beautiful and meaningful. Learning that both are normal parts of the journey can be empowering and allow one to reach our dreams and goals by overcoming the blocks and pain that keep us from reaching those dreams. We can learn to grow through pain, enjoy moments of pure joy and build community. I am a Licensed Masters Social Work, Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor, Equine Therapist and Certified Thanatologist along with EMDR training. I have worked with a wide variety of clients over the course of my 23-year career.
(501) 361-4059 View (501) 361-4059
Photo of Sherrie A Graham, Counselor in Pine Bluff, AR
Sherrie A Graham
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
But I recognize the pain, grief, and anguish when you are bumping up against the wall and the wall does not budge.
My passion is helping families thrive. I want to help adoptive families and people who are caring for aging parents. I know the frustration of raising a child with attachment injury and being part of the sandwich generation where you take care of a struggling child and elderly parents at the same time. I know what it is like to feel loss and isolation when your heart is ripped apart by death or divorce. I also know what it is like to have your support system drop you because you no longer fit in. I want to help you find ways to hang on to precious memories and still move forward with life.
But I recognize the pain, grief, and anguish when you are bumping up against the wall and the wall does not budge.
My passion is helping families thrive. I want to help adoptive families and people who are caring for aging parents. I know the frustration of raising a child with attachment injury and being part of the sandwich generation where you take care of a struggling child and elderly parents at the same time. I know what it is like to feel loss and isolation when your heart is ripped apart by death or divorce. I also know what it is like to have your support system drop you because you no longer fit in. I want to help you find ways to hang on to precious memories and still move forward with life.
(501) 361-4204 View (501) 361-4204
Photo of Shannon R Pearce, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pine Bluff, AR
Shannon R Pearce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHC
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Do you struggle with an inner critic and perfectionism that just won't quit? Suffering due to trauma or emotional pain? Or maybe there's a relationship you want to heal, but everything you've tried isn't working. Sometimes life can feel like a chore, with obstacles that keep us from living a contented life free of insecurity, frustration, and stress. More than anything, I want you to know that there are solutions and you have the strength to not just overcome, but thrive! It's time to get unstuck. You are worth it!
Do you struggle with an inner critic and perfectionism that just won't quit? Suffering due to trauma or emotional pain? Or maybe there's a relationship you want to heal, but everything you've tried isn't working. Sometimes life can feel like a chore, with obstacles that keep us from living a contented life free of insecurity, frustration, and stress. More than anything, I want you to know that there are solutions and you have the strength to not just overcome, but thrive! It's time to get unstuck. You are worth it!
(501) 392-9715 View (501) 392-9715
Photo of Dr. Hannah Warshowsky, Psychologist in Pine Bluff, AR
Dr. Hannah Warshowsky
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72205  (Online Only)
“And how do you feel about that!?” ---Says every TV comedy-bit depicting therapy. In reality, it can be intimidating to share our true feelings with another person- especially with a (virtual) stranger. In therapy sessions, I therefore create a warm, safe, empathetic, non-judgmental, space to unpack your story. I view you as an expert on yourself and will encourage you to honor your own inner wisdom. I value processing your unique context and how intersectional identities and structures of oppression contribute to your distress.  My goal is to illuminate the root causes of your pain and to help guide you towards healing and growth.
“And how do you feel about that!?” ---Says every TV comedy-bit depicting therapy. In reality, it can be intimidating to share our true feelings with another person- especially with a (virtual) stranger. In therapy sessions, I therefore create a warm, safe, empathetic, non-judgmental, space to unpack your story. I view you as an expert on yourself and will encourage you to honor your own inner wisdom. I value processing your unique context and how intersectional identities and structures of oppression contribute to your distress.  My goal is to illuminate the root causes of your pain and to help guide you towards healing and growth.
(678) 632-5020 View (678) 632-5020
Photo of Arianna M. Bierle, Counselor in Pine Bluff, AR
Arianna M. Bierle
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72032
As someone who experiences life day-to-day with a chronic illness, I also have a passion for those overcoming similar challenges in their own journey.
As a dedicated therapist with a passion for empowering individuals and couples, I am skilled in addressing a wide range of issues to facilitate growth and healing. With warmth and empathy, I am committed to guiding my clients (that's you!) through unique challenges toward a path of resilience and fulfillment. I utilize evidence-based models supported by clinical research, and I tailor my approach to meet your needs. My practice is rooted in the belief that there is power in telling our stories and that each person possesses the capacity for growth. I am additionally certified as sex and couples therapist.
As someone who experiences life day-to-day with a chronic illness, I also have a passion for those overcoming similar challenges in their own journey.
As a dedicated therapist with a passion for empowering individuals and couples, I am skilled in addressing a wide range of issues to facilitate growth and healing. With warmth and empathy, I am committed to guiding my clients (that's you!) through unique challenges toward a path of resilience and fulfillment. I utilize evidence-based models supported by clinical research, and I tailor my approach to meet your needs. My practice is rooted in the belief that there is power in telling our stories and that each person possesses the capacity for growth. I am additionally certified as sex and couples therapist.
(501) 200-9186 View (501) 200-9186
Photo of Dr. M. Kaye Ramsey, Psychologist in Pine Bluff, AR
Dr. M. Kaye Ramsey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71913
Depression,Anxiety,PTSD/trauma,Bipolar, Substance abuse,Relapse Prevention,Chronic Pain, Performance anxiety and work related stressors, chronic stress management, lifestyle and positive quality of life improvements.
I am a licensed mental health professional with over 11 years of clinical experience. My professional background is in Clinical Psychology with a Client-Centered focus. Client-Centered Counseling is a manner of being or an attitudinal approach that believes that positive change in people occurs in a therapeutic relationship with another person (a helper or a therapist) in which the helper provides unconditional positive regard, genuineness and empathy toward the client or patient. During my career, I have worked with all types of issues and in various stages of one’s life path.I am Looking forward to helping you.
Depression,Anxiety,PTSD/trauma,Bipolar, Substance abuse,Relapse Prevention,Chronic Pain, Performance anxiety and work related stressors, chronic stress management, lifestyle and positive quality of life improvements.
I am a licensed mental health professional with over 11 years of clinical experience. My professional background is in Clinical Psychology with a Client-Centered focus. Client-Centered Counseling is a manner of being or an attitudinal approach that believes that positive change in people occurs in a therapeutic relationship with another person (a helper or a therapist) in which the helper provides unconditional positive regard, genuineness and empathy toward the client or patient. During my career, I have worked with all types of issues and in various stages of one’s life path.I am Looking forward to helping you.
(501) 299-9280 View (501) 299-9280
Photo of Heather Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pine Bluff, AR
Heather Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Little Rock, AR 72116
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is not one-size-fits-all. I collaborate with clients so they can engage in self-exploration and practice skills grounded in their personal values. As a queer nonbinary, fat therapist, I believe in addressing intersecting identities and building a compassionate relationship that centers the client's distinct needs. I specialize in relationship and sex therapy and especially enjoy working with individuals and couples who are navigating changes in identity and sexual health. I have experience working with the impact of medical trauma and chronic illness on sexuality and exploration sexual and gender identity.
Therapy is not one-size-fits-all. I collaborate with clients so they can engage in self-exploration and practice skills grounded in their personal values. As a queer nonbinary, fat therapist, I believe in addressing intersecting identities and building a compassionate relationship that centers the client's distinct needs. I specialize in relationship and sex therapy and especially enjoy working with individuals and couples who are navigating changes in identity and sexual health. I have experience working with the impact of medical trauma and chronic illness on sexuality and exploration sexual and gender identity.
(501) 618-1888 View (501) 618-1888
Photo of Integrated Psych Solutions, Psychologist in Pine Bluff, AR
Integrated Psych Solutions
Psychologist, PsyD, MPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72205
Factors unique to my practice include testing for attention deficit and autism disorders, group therapy for chronic pain, lifestyle change (weight loss, medication management, illness, etc.
Behavior change is applicable to everyone, not just those with psychological distress. I specialize in behavior change and communication. I offer direct, compassionate feedback, problem solving, and a fair evaluation of the circumstances.
Factors unique to my practice include testing for attention deficit and autism disorders, group therapy for chronic pain, lifestyle change (weight loss, medication management, illness, etc.
Behavior change is applicable to everyone, not just those with psychological distress. I specialize in behavior change and communication. I offer direct, compassionate feedback, problem solving, and a fair evaluation of the circumstances.
(501) 881-2060 View (501) 881-2060
Photo of Carrie Calhoon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pine Bluff, AR
Carrie Calhoon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, APHSW-C, OSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72202
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are struggling with a life change (life-limiting diagnosis, divorce, a new phase of life), a loss (death, a relationship, job, sense of your own independence), feeling stuck (life isn't moving in the direction you had hoped, you want to feel different but just don't know where to start), or you are in pain (physical or emotional), I can be a non-biased sounding board and guide. I like to meet my clients "right where they are" and help you with tools to move in the direction you wish to be. I'm easy to talk to, not afraid to talk about hard things, and mix in my own "humanness" with a dose of humor in our sessions.
Whether you are struggling with a life change (life-limiting diagnosis, divorce, a new phase of life), a loss (death, a relationship, job, sense of your own independence), feeling stuck (life isn't moving in the direction you had hoped, you want to feel different but just don't know where to start), or you are in pain (physical or emotional), I can be a non-biased sounding board and guide. I like to meet my clients "right where they are" and help you with tools to move in the direction you wish to be. I'm easy to talk to, not afraid to talk about hard things, and mix in my own "humanness" with a dose of humor in our sessions.
(501) 456-4754 View (501) 456-4754
Photo of Meridiem Psychological Services, Inc. in Pine Bluff, AR
Meridiem Psychological Services, Inc.
MA, LPE-I, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Benton, AR 72015
I offer a very specific type of therapy that can be applied to almost any issue including depression, anxiety, chronic pain, etc.
I have been working in the mental health field since 2002. I have been nationally certified since 2004. I am EMDR certified, EMDRIA approved Consultant, and EMDR Trainer. I use a trauma-focused approach to treatment because it is a very holistic approach to care (body, mind, and emotional reactions to stress). I prefer to work with adolescents and adults in therapy services. I also offer consultation services for therapists and other mental health providers. I received my credential to be an EMDR trainier on 9/12/2023 and offer both online and in-person trainings.
I offer a very specific type of therapy that can be applied to almost any issue including depression, anxiety, chronic pain, etc.
I have been working in the mental health field since 2002. I have been nationally certified since 2004. I am EMDR certified, EMDRIA approved Consultant, and EMDR Trainer. I use a trauma-focused approach to treatment because it is a very holistic approach to care (body, mind, and emotional reactions to stress). I prefer to work with adolescents and adults in therapy services. I also offer consultation services for therapists and other mental health providers. I received my credential to be an EMDR trainier on 9/12/2023 and offer both online and in-person trainings.
(501) 232-2717 View (501) 232-2717
Photo of Laura E Tapley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pine Bluff, AR
Laura E Tapley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Little Rock, AR 72116
You are probably reading this because you are hurting and need some help. Therapy is here for people seeking a better way. One of the bravest things we can do, is just show up. Every person deserves a safe space, free from judgment, in which you can be seen, heard, and supported in a genuine way. I am here to assist and support you through the ups and downs of life. In this accepting environment, we can explore the things that no longer serve you and make room for new skills and patterns. It’s a chance to transform anxiety and stress into wisdom and peace, and turn pain and discomfort into healing and strength.
You are probably reading this because you are hurting and need some help. Therapy is here for people seeking a better way. One of the bravest things we can do, is just show up. Every person deserves a safe space, free from judgment, in which you can be seen, heard, and supported in a genuine way. I am here to assist and support you through the ups and downs of life. In this accepting environment, we can explore the things that no longer serve you and make room for new skills and patterns. It’s a chance to transform anxiety and stress into wisdom and peace, and turn pain and discomfort into healing and strength.
(501) 430-3647 View (501) 430-3647
Photo of Healing Specialties Hypnosis,Reiki School,Clinic in Pine Bluff, AR
Healing Specialties Hypnosis,Reiki School,Clinic
CHT, CHI, MMT, RMI
Verified Verified
North Little Rock, AR 72114
HEALING SPECIALTIES HYPNOSIS & REIKI SCHOOL & HEALING CENTER. Certified Master Hypnotist & Instructor, Certified Reiki Master & Instructor, Certified Life Coach, Master Massage Therapist. I can help you heal your body, mind and spirit. BEGIN A NEW CAREER OR ADD TO YOUR TOOLBOX. BECOME A NATIONALLY CERTIFIED HYPNOTIST & REIKI PRACTIONER & REIKI MASTER. My school takes you through the foundation of Reiki and Hypnosis, these are natural & safe ways of healing & pain control. Join the new wave of health & business professionals. FOR MORE INFORMATION 501-712-0044
HEALING SPECIALTIES HYPNOSIS & REIKI SCHOOL & HEALING CENTER. Certified Master Hypnotist & Instructor, Certified Reiki Master & Instructor, Certified Life Coach, Master Massage Therapist. I can help you heal your body, mind and spirit. BEGIN A NEW CAREER OR ADD TO YOUR TOOLBOX. BECOME A NATIONALLY CERTIFIED HYPNOTIST & REIKI PRACTIONER & REIKI MASTER. My school takes you through the foundation of Reiki and Hypnosis, these are natural & safe ways of healing & pain control. Join the new wave of health & business professionals. FOR MORE INFORMATION 501-712-0044
(501) 261-6443 View (501) 261-6443
Photo of Susan Milligan, Counselor in Pine Bluff, AR
Susan Milligan
Counselor, MEd, LAC, BSP, GC-C
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72212
BSP is designed to help clients access, process, and release negative experiences from the brain, including trauma, irrational emotions, and psychologically induced physical pain.
Hello! My name is Susan Milligan, and I’m a therapist who is passionate about helping clients build stronger, more satisfying lives. My work focuses on helping people recognize and change unhealthy patterns by using both traditional and cutting-edge therapy interventions. You may have tried other forms of therapy in the past without success and are looking for a new approach. I’m here to help you achieve your goals and work collaboratively with you to find the best solutions. I continually attend trainings to better my abilities to help, so you can be assured that you’re receiving the most up-to-date, effective treatments possible.
BSP is designed to help clients access, process, and release negative experiences from the brain, including trauma, irrational emotions, and psychologically induced physical pain.
Hello! My name is Susan Milligan, and I’m a therapist who is passionate about helping clients build stronger, more satisfying lives. My work focuses on helping people recognize and change unhealthy patterns by using both traditional and cutting-edge therapy interventions. You may have tried other forms of therapy in the past without success and are looking for a new approach. I’m here to help you achieve your goals and work collaboratively with you to find the best solutions. I continually attend trainings to better my abilities to help, so you can be assured that you’re receiving the most up-to-date, effective treatments possible.
(501) 382-1095 View (501) 382-1095
Photo of Wellspring Renewal Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pine Bluff, AR
Wellspring Renewal Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72205
Is your child having problems academically, socially, or behaviorally? Are there relationship problems within your family? Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, chronic pain, anger, moodiness? We can work together toward a more peaceful life.
To that one soul reading this, I know you're tired. You're fed up. You're so close to breaking, but there's hope and strength within you. You deserve a happier, healthier life, and you can have it. I have years of experience and success helping my clients break out of unhealthy patterns to feel more empowered and strong. I provide empathy, compassion, and offer a supportive, safe, judgement free environment where all are welcome. I am skilled in, and use a variety of evidence based treatment modalities to tailor each client's care individually.
Is your child having problems academically, socially, or behaviorally? Are there relationship problems within your family? Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, chronic pain, anger, moodiness? We can work together toward a more peaceful life.
To that one soul reading this, I know you're tired. You're fed up. You're so close to breaking, but there's hope and strength within you. You deserve a happier, healthier life, and you can have it. I have years of experience and success helping my clients break out of unhealthy patterns to feel more empowered and strong. I provide empathy, compassion, and offer a supportive, safe, judgement free environment where all are welcome. I am skilled in, and use a variety of evidence based treatment modalities to tailor each client's care individually.
(501) 238-6613 View (501) 238-6613
Photo of Jannie Cole, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pine Bluff, AR
Jannie Cole
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, TAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Little Rock, AR 72114
I specialize in a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, and chronic pain.
I believe in a practical, integrative approach to counseling to help each person along their individual path. I want to help you find hope and joy instead of merely eliminating symptoms. I work with my clients to facilitate growth and change through transparency, empathy and nonjudgment, as well as through other evidence based practices, including EMDR.
I specialize in a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, and chronic pain.
I believe in a practical, integrative approach to counseling to help each person along their individual path. I want to help you find hope and joy instead of merely eliminating symptoms. I work with my clients to facilitate growth and change through transparency, empathy and nonjudgment, as well as through other evidence based practices, including EMDR.
(479) 255-2172 View (479) 255-2172
Photo of Sharon Allred, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pine Bluff, AR
Sharon Allred
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hot Springs Village, AR 71909
My extensive experience includes counseling teens with behavioral issues and their parents in community based programs, counseling and group therapy for pain management, inpatient treatment for adolescent substance abusers and counseling geriatric patients.
" Life is change. Growth is optional. Choose wisely." Hello! Welcome to my page! I really enjoy helping others get more out of their lives and assisting them in solving their problems. My style of counseling is compassionate, direct and interactive. I use different approaches and taylor counseling to your specific situation and needs. My main goal, with my varied background, is to bring all that experience to serve you in a warm, comfortable environment where we can work together to improve your life and relationships.
My extensive experience includes counseling teens with behavioral issues and their parents in community based programs, counseling and group therapy for pain management, inpatient treatment for adolescent substance abusers and counseling geriatric patients.
" Life is change. Growth is optional. Choose wisely." Hello! Welcome to my page! I really enjoy helping others get more out of their lives and assisting them in solving their problems. My style of counseling is compassionate, direct and interactive. I use different approaches and taylor counseling to your specific situation and needs. My main goal, with my varied background, is to bring all that experience to serve you in a warm, comfortable environment where we can work together to improve your life and relationships.
(214) 427-8926 View (214) 427-8926
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.