Photo of Painted Desert Psychotherapy, Gwenn Herman, LCSW, , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tucson, AZ
Painted Desert Psychotherapy, Gwenn Herman, LCSW,
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I have chronic pain due to a car accident over 30 years ago and use what I have learned on my personal journey to help others develop a quality of life.
When I meet someone for the first time, I create a safe place free of judgement and open for them to tell their story. As they speak, I hear their words and voice tone. I look at their face, eyes, hands, feet, whole body, energy and see what they are also telling me. Then I develop a sense of who they are.
I have chronic pain due to a car accident over 30 years ago and use what I have learned on my personal journey to help others develop a quality of life.
When I meet someone for the first time, I create a safe place free of judgement and open for them to tell their story. As they speak, I hear their words and voice tone. I look at their face, eyes, hands, feet, whole body, energy and see what they are also telling me. Then I develop a sense of who they are.
(520) 231-7999 View (520) 231-7999
Photo of Carolyn M. Guajardo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tucson, AZ
Carolyn M. Guajardo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718
My areas of focus include anxiety, past trauma, life transitions, and chronic pain. These issues can interfere with exciting times in your life, such as higher education, relationships, new employment or parenthood. You may find that these challenges have created hurdles in your life, keeping you from your goals. I will use an evidence based approach along with humor and creativity to help you meet your full potential.
My areas of focus include anxiety, past trauma, life transitions, and chronic pain. These issues can interfere with exciting times in your life, such as higher education, relationships, new employment or parenthood. You may find that these challenges have created hurdles in your life, keeping you from your goals. I will use an evidence based approach along with humor and creativity to help you meet your full potential.
(520) 462-2638 View (520) 462-2638
Photo of Barrette Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tucson, AZ
Barrette Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
Sometimes our lives become so complicated and stressful that we all need an outside, non-judgmental person to help guide us back to our inner source and wisdom. My therapeutic strengths lie in my ability to create a safe and non-judgmental relationship with my clients to help them quickly identify their strengths and utilize them to problem solve and feel better. I approach all my clients with kindness and compassion, understanding that many are entering counseling for the first time or are searching for relief from stress, depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, chronic pain or illness, or many of life's difficult transitions.
Sometimes our lives become so complicated and stressful that we all need an outside, non-judgmental person to help guide us back to our inner source and wisdom. My therapeutic strengths lie in my ability to create a safe and non-judgmental relationship with my clients to help them quickly identify their strengths and utilize them to problem solve and feel better. I approach all my clients with kindness and compassion, understanding that many are entering counseling for the first time or are searching for relief from stress, depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, chronic pain or illness, or many of life's difficult transitions.
(520) 441-8823 View (520) 441-8823
Photo of Janet S Ranney, Psychologist in Tucson, AZ
Janet S Ranney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718
Waitlist for new clients
I also have extensive experience working with clients across the adult lifespan and can address a wide range of issues including grief, life transitions, identity issues, anxiety, chronic pain, stress, intimacy issues, sexual health, LGBTQ issues, and more.
Courageous independent adults who are curious about themselves and their life/family histories are an ideal fit for my services. It takes great bravery to enter into a therapeutic connection that is bound to spark insight and awareness. Therapy is a journey with an attuned other who can help guide you through self-exploration towards growth. Clients who would benefit from working with me include those who are interested in achieving a life-work-parenting-partnering balance, one that involves mindfulness, present-focus and an emphasis on physical well being. I work with you from a place of cultural awareness and respect.
I also have extensive experience working with clients across the adult lifespan and can address a wide range of issues including grief, life transitions, identity issues, anxiety, chronic pain, stress, intimacy issues, sexual health, LGBTQ issues, and more.
Courageous independent adults who are curious about themselves and their life/family histories are an ideal fit for my services. It takes great bravery to enter into a therapeutic connection that is bound to spark insight and awareness. Therapy is a journey with an attuned other who can help guide you through self-exploration towards growth. Clients who would benefit from working with me include those who are interested in achieving a life-work-parenting-partnering balance, one that involves mindfulness, present-focus and an emphasis on physical well being. I work with you from a place of cultural awareness and respect.
(520) 210-5504 View (520) 210-5504
Photo of Entune Behavioral Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tucson, AZ
Entune Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, LMFT, LISAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
Entune Behavioral Health is a team of licensed therapists that provide individual, couples, and family therapy to clients ages 18 and up. Our therapists address a myriad of conditions, including generalized anxiety, depression, trauma, marital counseling, substance use and abuse, major life transitions and serious mental illness. Entune Behavioral Health's therapists are specially trained in CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) therapy for trauma, MI (motivational interviewing), and SFBT (solution-focused brief therapy.
Entune Behavioral Health is a team of licensed therapists that provide individual, couples, and family therapy to clients ages 18 and up. Our therapists address a myriad of conditions, including generalized anxiety, depression, trauma, marital counseling, substance use and abuse, major life transitions and serious mental illness. Entune Behavioral Health's therapists are specially trained in CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) therapy for trauma, MI (motivational interviewing), and SFBT (solution-focused brief therapy.
(520) 492-0300 View (520) 492-0300
Photo of Betty J Wittels, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tucson, AZ
Betty J Wittels
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85705
I focus upon deep issues to transform tears, heal relationships, and, even, to teach clients how to heal physical illness.
Being a psychotherapist for over 4 decades, I recognize the necessity to honor each client as an individual and to help that client to recognize and reveal true thoughts and feelings. Feeling sad, shy, frightened, furious, or any other emotion can be expressed and healed in the individual and within the family. Timing and destiny are vitally important to reveal and recognize, but even more valuable is to know that our reaction to life's events can transform our world. Whether in the mind, emotions, or spirit all things are possible.
I focus upon deep issues to transform tears, heal relationships, and, even, to teach clients how to heal physical illness.
Being a psychotherapist for over 4 decades, I recognize the necessity to honor each client as an individual and to help that client to recognize and reveal true thoughts and feelings. Feeling sad, shy, frightened, furious, or any other emotion can be expressed and healed in the individual and within the family. Timing and destiny are vitally important to reveal and recognize, but even more valuable is to know that our reaction to life's events can transform our world. Whether in the mind, emotions, or spirit all things are possible.
(520) 729-2223 View (520) 729-2223
Photo of Rebecca Rae Palmer, Counselor in Tucson, AZ
Rebecca Rae Palmer
Counselor, MA, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
My aim is to provide a therapeutic environment that is conducive to change, growth, and healing. I take an integrated approach to therapy, treating each individual with interventions best suited to a client's unique experiences. I have had the opportunity to work with individuals with disabilities in a vocational rehabilitation setting. I have worked with kids of all ages. I am also experienced in working with individuals adjusting to major life changes due to illness, traumatic events, and those experiencing grief, loss, anxiety, and depression.
My aim is to provide a therapeutic environment that is conducive to change, growth, and healing. I take an integrated approach to therapy, treating each individual with interventions best suited to a client's unique experiences. I have had the opportunity to work with individuals with disabilities in a vocational rehabilitation setting. I have worked with kids of all ages. I am also experienced in working with individuals adjusting to major life changes due to illness, traumatic events, and those experiencing grief, loss, anxiety, and depression.
(520) 462-2229 View (520) 462-2229
Photo of Karen Faitelson, Counselor in Tucson, AZ
Karen Faitelson
Counselor, MA, MSc, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85750
Life can be very stressful particularly since the pandemic; you may feel scared, worried, helpless and even hopeless. Life transitions can cause you anxiety, depression and feelings of being overwhelmed. You might have difficulty in relationships, your marriage, deciding on divorce, parenting issues, academic or career stresses, empty nest, midlife or existential crises, menopause, job loss, retirement, aging, illness, care-giving, grief & loss, loneliness, isolation, or death of a loved one. If this resonates with you, counseling is an excellent choice to learn the coping skills you need to deal with adversity.
Life can be very stressful particularly since the pandemic; you may feel scared, worried, helpless and even hopeless. Life transitions can cause you anxiety, depression and feelings of being overwhelmed. You might have difficulty in relationships, your marriage, deciding on divorce, parenting issues, academic or career stresses, empty nest, midlife or existential crises, menopause, job loss, retirement, aging, illness, care-giving, grief & loss, loneliness, isolation, or death of a loved one. If this resonates with you, counseling is an excellent choice to learn the coping skills you need to deal with adversity.
(520) 314-4207 View (520) 314-4207
Photo of Tamara Gittelson, Counselor in Tucson, AZ
Tamara Gittelson
Counselor, MA, LCPC, Analyst, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718
I am not an agent of social adjustment or symptomatic melioration, but offer relief of inner pain and relief from conflict and confusion.
Hi. Come talk about what matters to you most. Together, we walk. Explore. Meander. Clarify. I love what I do and will help you feel better. I can help with multicultural issues, relocation, or if you're struggling with addiction, overcoming trauma, relationships, questions about polyamory, depression or abuse. If life has lost its meaning and you’re missing adventure, intimacy, greater self-expression and passion, let’s go. If you don’t talk about it, it won’t get better. I’m supportive, alternative, warm and kind. You’ll feel comfortable, and challenge thoughts and perceptions preventing you from getting out of your own way.
I am not an agent of social adjustment or symptomatic melioration, but offer relief of inner pain and relief from conflict and confusion.
Hi. Come talk about what matters to you most. Together, we walk. Explore. Meander. Clarify. I love what I do and will help you feel better. I can help with multicultural issues, relocation, or if you're struggling with addiction, overcoming trauma, relationships, questions about polyamory, depression or abuse. If life has lost its meaning and you’re missing adventure, intimacy, greater self-expression and passion, let’s go. If you don’t talk about it, it won’t get better. I’m supportive, alternative, warm and kind. You’ll feel comfortable, and challenge thoughts and perceptions preventing you from getting out of your own way.
(312) 410-8248 View (312) 410-8248
Photo of Katie Klein, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Tucson, AZ
Katie Klein
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LISAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85704
I specialize in working with teens, adults, and families with addictions of all types, eating disorders, and body image issues. I also have vast experience working with trauma, life transitions, chronic pain, anxiety disorders, and depression in teens and adults. In addition, I like working with young adults and teens who are facing transitions into adulthood. I believe there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy and that healing takes place on all levels- mind, body, and spirit. Nothing has gone wrong in your life to get you to this point of reaching out- we all need help at some point and you deserve to feel better!
I specialize in working with teens, adults, and families with addictions of all types, eating disorders, and body image issues. I also have vast experience working with trauma, life transitions, chronic pain, anxiety disorders, and depression in teens and adults. In addition, I like working with young adults and teens who are facing transitions into adulthood. I believe there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy and that healing takes place on all levels- mind, body, and spirit. Nothing has gone wrong in your life to get you to this point of reaching out- we all need help at some point and you deserve to feel better!
(520) 210-7573 View (520) 210-7573
Photo of Corinne Amber Perez, Counselor in Tucson, AZ
Corinne Amber Perez
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718
I think we can all agree that life is challenging at times, but it can be a beautiful adventure, sometimes we just need someone to help us throughout our journey of self-discovery. Our pain, although unpleasant, can be an instrument that leads to growth and healing. The fact that your reading this means you still have hope. I’m glad you made it this far because that tells me that even after all you’ve been through, you believe in the possibility of change.
I think we can all agree that life is challenging at times, but it can be a beautiful adventure, sometimes we just need someone to help us throughout our journey of self-discovery. Our pain, although unpleasant, can be an instrument that leads to growth and healing. The fact that your reading this means you still have hope. I’m glad you made it this far because that tells me that even after all you’ve been through, you believe in the possibility of change.
(520) 348-2209 x1 View (520) 348-2209 x1
Photo of Nicoline Mayger Counseling LLC, Counselor in Tucson, AZ
Nicoline Mayger Counseling LLC
Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85718  (Online Only)
My Post Master's education and training emphasis are in Abuse, Anxiety, Attachment Issues, Chronic Pain, Codependency, Depression, Divorce, Grief & Loss, Family Systems, Mindfulness, Parenting, Relationships, Self-Care, and Trauma Therapy.
My extensive experience includes adults, families and children in outpatient and inpatient settings in various states. I focus on women's therapy in private practice, and I am passionate about increasing their confidence, emotional strength, successful coping strategies, and empowerment. Clients find solutions never thought possible. I am also certified in EMDR, and the technology I use is highly effective for telehealth sessions.
My Post Master's education and training emphasis are in Abuse, Anxiety, Attachment Issues, Chronic Pain, Codependency, Depression, Divorce, Grief & Loss, Family Systems, Mindfulness, Parenting, Relationships, Self-Care, and Trauma Therapy.
My extensive experience includes adults, families and children in outpatient and inpatient settings in various states. I focus on women's therapy in private practice, and I am passionate about increasing their confidence, emotional strength, successful coping strategies, and empowerment. Clients find solutions never thought possible. I am also certified in EMDR, and the technology I use is highly effective for telehealth sessions.
(520) 369-4436 View (520) 369-4436
Photo of Gerald Whitehawk Transpersonal Therapist in Tucson, AZ
Gerald Whitehawk Transpersonal Therapist
MA, BA, CST, CCHt
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I believe that the main cause of mental illness is fragmented awareness and esoteric wisdom centered therapy creates stable self-transformation that integrates good along with the bad in a "sense-of-self-as-part-of-'as-is'-life.
Are you too fatigued, worried, depressed or unable to fall asleep? Are you grieving or experiencing painful flashbacks and overwhelming emotions? Is mind racing and feel that you don't fit in the world, anymore? Are you feeling hopeless and helpless? Conventional, one-size-fits-all therapeutic models lack authenticity, in stark contrast with the uniqueness of individual life. I'm an Esotherapist(tm) and Australian Level 4 Registered Counselor (LPC equivalent) living in US and specializing in PTSD, depression, anxiety/panic, grief, addictions, relationships, existential and identity crises. I am also a clinical hypnotherapist, NLP practitioner and life-coach.
I believe that the main cause of mental illness is fragmented awareness and esoteric wisdom centered therapy creates stable self-transformation that integrates good along with the bad in a "sense-of-self-as-part-of-'as-is'-life.
Are you too fatigued, worried, depressed or unable to fall asleep? Are you grieving or experiencing painful flashbacks and overwhelming emotions? Is mind racing and feel that you don't fit in the world, anymore? Are you feeling hopeless and helpless? Conventional, one-size-fits-all therapeutic models lack authenticity, in stark contrast with the uniqueness of individual life. I'm an Esotherapist(tm) and Australian Level 4 Registered Counselor (LPC equivalent) living in US and specializing in PTSD, depression, anxiety/panic, grief, addictions, relationships, existential and identity crises. I am also a clinical hypnotherapist, NLP practitioner and life-coach.
(520) 447-3263 View (520) 447-3263
Photo of Joyce Luna Zymeck, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tucson, AZ
Joyce Luna Zymeck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712
Are you feeling stressed, sad, in pain, anxious…or all of the above? Do you think you "should" feel happy, but you don't--and you're not sure why or what to do about it? Or maybe you're grieving a loss or a trauma & feeling lost yourself. No matter what you're facing, I'm here to help!! Since 2007, I've counseled diverse people from all walks of life. I use empathy, honesty, humor, & compassion in all my work. Combined with your innate wisdom & your courage in starting this process, we'll develop a safe, supportive therapeutic alliance that allows you to heal your past & live a happier, healthier, & brighter present & future.
Are you feeling stressed, sad, in pain, anxious…or all of the above? Do you think you "should" feel happy, but you don't--and you're not sure why or what to do about it? Or maybe you're grieving a loss or a trauma & feeling lost yourself. No matter what you're facing, I'm here to help!! Since 2007, I've counseled diverse people from all walks of life. I use empathy, honesty, humor, & compassion in all my work. Combined with your innate wisdom & your courage in starting this process, we'll develop a safe, supportive therapeutic alliance that allows you to heal your past & live a happier, healthier, & brighter present & future.
(520) 729-2140 View (520) 729-2140
Photo of Russell Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tucson, AZ
Russell Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85719  (Online Only)
I also am experienced at providing a wide variety of therapy groups including: depression, anxiety, anger, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and substance abuse.
I like working with individuals with a wide array of problems including: depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, relationship problems, behavioral disorders, substance abuse, impulse control problems, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, family problems, life skills deficits, and problems with decision-making. I provide compassionate care and I am an efficient and effective counselor who uses evidence-based approaches like CBT and EMDR.
I also am experienced at providing a wide variety of therapy groups including: depression, anxiety, anger, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and substance abuse.
I like working with individuals with a wide array of problems including: depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, relationship problems, behavioral disorders, substance abuse, impulse control problems, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, family problems, life skills deficits, and problems with decision-making. I provide compassionate care and I am an efficient and effective counselor who uses evidence-based approaches like CBT and EMDR.
(520) 462-2002 View (520) 462-2002
Photo of Haley Ahmann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tucson, AZ
Haley Ahmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I am passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate sexual issues such as communication, healing trauma & history of sexual violence, libido issues, physical pain, dissociation or other blocks you may be struggling with. My approach is collaborative and intentional to help you and your partner(s) navigate unique challenges and breakthrough unhelpful patterns.
I am passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate sexual issues such as communication, healing trauma & history of sexual violence, libido issues, physical pain, dissociation or other blocks you may be struggling with. My approach is collaborative and intentional to help you and your partner(s) navigate unique challenges and breakthrough unhelpful patterns.
(520) 341-2490 View (520) 341-2490
Photo of Innervision Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tucson, AZ
Innervision Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85711
Innervision Counseling for people who wish to make changes. Experienced in motivating clients in achieving their goals for over 40 years. Compassionate acceptance of all populations and ages to enhance self acceptance, break negative patterns and identify what's important to you. Non-judgmental support around grief and losses, disabilities, pain management, chronic illnesses, trauma, addictions and healing from abuse. Experienced in dealing with Covid survivors and military families. Home visits offered to disabled seniors.
Innervision Counseling for people who wish to make changes. Experienced in motivating clients in achieving their goals for over 40 years. Compassionate acceptance of all populations and ages to enhance self acceptance, break negative patterns and identify what's important to you. Non-judgmental support around grief and losses, disabilities, pain management, chronic illnesses, trauma, addictions and healing from abuse. Experienced in dealing with Covid survivors and military families. Home visits offered to disabled seniors.
(520) 216-7386 x85711 View (520) 216-7386 x85711
Photo of Carol Lynn Winters, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tucson, AZ
Carol Lynn Winters
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MS, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85701  (Online Only)
I have joyfully worked for over 30 years in the field of rehabilitation and mental health, pain/stress management therapies.
I am a short term, wellness oriented and goal focused therapist. A joyful and purpose driven life is what most of us strive for. Sometimes we are temporarily knocked off the track by a catastrophic event or ongoing life situation that appears to be hopeless or unsolvable. These roadblocks, however, can be overcome with will, good support and the right tools necessary to change our attitudes and life circumstances so that life works for us, not against us, once again. For anxiety and depression I incorporate meditation, tapping, vagus nerve stimulation and relaxation exercises into my sessions to help you regain control.
I have joyfully worked for over 30 years in the field of rehabilitation and mental health, pain/stress management therapies.
I am a short term, wellness oriented and goal focused therapist. A joyful and purpose driven life is what most of us strive for. Sometimes we are temporarily knocked off the track by a catastrophic event or ongoing life situation that appears to be hopeless or unsolvable. These roadblocks, however, can be overcome with will, good support and the right tools necessary to change our attitudes and life circumstances so that life works for us, not against us, once again. For anxiety and depression I incorporate meditation, tapping, vagus nerve stimulation and relaxation exercises into my sessions to help you regain control.
(928) 597-3291 View (928) 597-3291
Photo of Josephine A Volpe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tucson, AZ
Josephine A Volpe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85710
Looking to be heard and understood? Seeking solutions that work to create a life with purpose? Feeling the feelings you had hoped would have settled by now? Are you a light worker or a star seed that could really appreciate a therapist that "gets it"? Or are you curious as to what that all means? Are you tired of someone telling you what to do and how to feel? Me Too! My name is Josephine Volpe and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who appreciates the answers you have locked inside of you to create the life you desire, even if you are struggling to have motivation or desire. So come, lets explore the beauty of healing together.
Looking to be heard and understood? Seeking solutions that work to create a life with purpose? Feeling the feelings you had hoped would have settled by now? Are you a light worker or a star seed that could really appreciate a therapist that "gets it"? Or are you curious as to what that all means? Are you tired of someone telling you what to do and how to feel? Me Too! My name is Josephine Volpe and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who appreciates the answers you have locked inside of you to create the life you desire, even if you are struggling to have motivation or desire. So come, lets explore the beauty of healing together.
(520) 346-7554 View (520) 346-7554
Photo of Rachel Hopkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tucson, AZ
Rachel Hopkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85716  (Online Only)
I have been in the health/wellness field for 20+ years using strength based/holistic recovery approaches. Integrated/experiential therapy helps you re-claim your authentic spontaneous self, creating the life you wish to live. Addressing emotional/relational wounding truly opens the door to a more empowered and fulfilling life. You can increase your self-esteem and confidence, free yourself from depression/anxiety, negative self-talk, substance or process addictions, trauma triggers, and emotional reactivity in relationships. Sometimes therapy addresses current challenges/difficulties, sometimes it's about family of origin issues using inner child work, and/or trauma reduction work.
I have been in the health/wellness field for 20+ years using strength based/holistic recovery approaches. Integrated/experiential therapy helps you re-claim your authentic spontaneous self, creating the life you wish to live. Addressing emotional/relational wounding truly opens the door to a more empowered and fulfilling life. You can increase your self-esteem and confidence, free yourself from depression/anxiety, negative self-talk, substance or process addictions, trauma triggers, and emotional reactivity in relationships. Sometimes therapy addresses current challenges/difficulties, sometimes it's about family of origin issues using inner child work, and/or trauma reduction work.
(520) 441-3728 View (520) 441-3728

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.