Chronic Pain Therapists in Tucson, AZ

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 Clayton Stephens, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Tucson, AZ
Clayton Stephens
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LASAC, MS
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85711
My approach is a results oriented, active, direct, and homework driven style. Addictions often originate from deeper underlying issues such as trauma/PTSD, chronic pain, psychosis, anxiety, and depression. I want to help you accomplish -whatever- goals/values that are uniquely important to you. I genuinely want to help you put the hard work of therapy into achieving real growth. I am part of the neurodivergent/high functioning autistic community. Please scroll down to read my blubs about the evidenced based treatments I use for these struggles. Self compassion is powerful! Book in person (Tucson area) or zoom at my website.
My approach is a results oriented, active, direct, and homework driven style. Addictions often originate from deeper underlying issues such as trauma/PTSD, chronic pain, psychosis, anxiety, and depression. I want to help you accomplish -whatever- goals/values that are uniquely important to you. I genuinely want to help you put the hard work of therapy into achieving real growth. I am part of the neurodivergent/high functioning autistic community. Please scroll down to read my blubs about the evidenced based treatments I use for these struggles. Self compassion is powerful! Book in person (Tucson area) or zoom at my website.
(520) 239-6623 View (520) 239-6623
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 Ryan Strong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tucson, AZ
Ryan Strong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85711
Waitlist for new clients
The pain you feel is a calling, a chance to deepen and grow towards your full and authentic Self.
Your situation is not unworkable. Trauma, stress, and mental health struggles are often the stuff of life. What you make of these elements is your contribution to the art of living, an art form that demands continual practice and growth. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to explore and reconnect with your inherent wisdom, clarity, and healing capacity. My aim is to assist you in shifting your energy from struggling against yourself to living intimately with the natural joy available to you in this life. Set down that which doesn't serve you and you will find room for what's here now, as well as what's to come.
The pain you feel is a calling, a chance to deepen and grow towards your full and authentic Self.
Your situation is not unworkable. Trauma, stress, and mental health struggles are often the stuff of life. What you make of these elements is your contribution to the art of living, an art form that demands continual practice and growth. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to explore and reconnect with your inherent wisdom, clarity, and healing capacity. My aim is to assist you in shifting your energy from struggling against yourself to living intimately with the natural joy available to you in this life. Set down that which doesn't serve you and you will find room for what's here now, as well as what's to come.
(928) 212-2887 View (928) 212-2887
Photo of Jack Gift, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tucson, AZ
Jack Gift
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, a personality disorder, another mental health challenge, chronic pain, trouble with relationships, or difficulties at your place of employment. You may feel stuck in your life or need to clarify personal values and goals. I am skilled and experienced at working with people facing a variety of mental health and related challenges. I specialize in working with people 18 years old and older. My approach to therapy starts with the idea that people are usually the best experts on their own lives.
You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, a personality disorder, another mental health challenge, chronic pain, trouble with relationships, or difficulties at your place of employment. You may feel stuck in your life or need to clarify personal values and goals. I am skilled and experienced at working with people facing a variety of mental health and related challenges. I specialize in working with people 18 years old and older. My approach to therapy starts with the idea that people are usually the best experts on their own lives.
(520) 335-3987 View (520) 335-3987
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 Yvonne C Giordano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tucson, AZ
Yvonne C Giordano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712  (Online Only)
Are you are looking to be empowered to address issues related to addiction and manage symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, trauma, insomnia, eating disorders, or grief and loss? I can offer you the opportunity to enter into a trusting relationship with a therapist who is skilled and trained, non-judgmental, supportive, validating, and empathetic to their experiences while making their journey into healing and personal growth. I work with adults and adolescents who are culturally and racially diverse, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans, homeless population, those in chronic pain, and members of the Deaf community.
Are you are looking to be empowered to address issues related to addiction and manage symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, trauma, insomnia, eating disorders, or grief and loss? I can offer you the opportunity to enter into a trusting relationship with a therapist who is skilled and trained, non-judgmental, supportive, validating, and empathetic to their experiences while making their journey into healing and personal growth. I work with adults and adolescents who are culturally and racially diverse, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans, homeless population, those in chronic pain, and members of the Deaf community.
(520) 843-1947 View (520) 843-1947
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 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 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 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 Dr. Brittany Burdick, Psychologist in Tucson, AZ
Dr. Brittany Burdick
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718  (Online Only)
Pain and suffering are part of the human experience; no one is immune from those realities.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist employed at Metta, a group private practice in Tucson. I have training and interest in working with a diverse number of clinical concerns including trauma and PTSD, attachment and developmental wounds, substance abuse, identity, self-discovery, and self-worth, difficult life transitions, relational issues, mood disorders, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. I highly prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental, trusting relationship with clients. I believe clients know themselves best, but I assist with gaining insight, self-understanding, and developing self-compassion and worth.
Pain and suffering are part of the human experience; no one is immune from those realities.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist employed at Metta, a group private practice in Tucson. I have training and interest in working with a diverse number of clinical concerns including trauma and PTSD, attachment and developmental wounds, substance abuse, identity, self-discovery, and self-worth, difficult life transitions, relational issues, mood disorders, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. I highly prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental, trusting relationship with clients. I believe clients know themselves best, but I assist with gaining insight, self-understanding, and developing self-compassion and worth.
(520) 619-4475 View (520) 619-4475
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 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 Jennifer Hewitt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tucson, AZ
Jennifer Hewitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85718
My work has predominantly focused on women’s issues, parenting, chronic illness, ADHD, grief and anxiety.
Are you tired and overwhelmed by it all? So many expectations, the constant “pull” from every area of your life….and the world we live in just keeps giving you more than you can handle and you feel you're not good enough. You want a safe place to sort through it all, but when is there even time to go to therapy to work on all this stress? It takes courage to bear your soul to another person, to find a person you feel safe sharing your deepest thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with. Someone who is non-judgmental, empathetic, and caring. I will help you feel safe, heard, validated, and empowered to make the changes you seek out.
My work has predominantly focused on women’s issues, parenting, chronic illness, ADHD, grief and anxiety.
Are you tired and overwhelmed by it all? So many expectations, the constant “pull” from every area of your life….and the world we live in just keeps giving you more than you can handle and you feel you're not good enough. You want a safe place to sort through it all, but when is there even time to go to therapy to work on all this stress? It takes courage to bear your soul to another person, to find a person you feel safe sharing your deepest thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with. Someone who is non-judgmental, empathetic, and caring. I will help you feel safe, heard, validated, and empowered to make the changes you seek out.
(520) 551-3150 x3818 View (520) 551-3150 x3818
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 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 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 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 Spenser Hughes, Psychologist in Tucson, AZ
Spenser Hughes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85741  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I focus on helping individuals and couples with issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and stressful situations such as relationship problems, work issues, and life transitions like retirement, marriage, and divorce. I also specialize in working with people who have trouble sleeping, coping with chronic pain, quitting smoking, using a CPAP machine, and adjusting to medical illnesses like cancer, diabetes, or COPD. If you are looking for help with any of those situations, I want you to know there are effective, scientifically supported treatments that may bring you relief and greatly improve your quality of life.
Hello! I focus on helping individuals and couples with issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and stressful situations such as relationship problems, work issues, and life transitions like retirement, marriage, and divorce. I also specialize in working with people who have trouble sleeping, coping with chronic pain, quitting smoking, using a CPAP machine, and adjusting to medical illnesses like cancer, diabetes, or COPD. If you are looking for help with any of those situations, I want you to know there are effective, scientifically supported treatments that may bring you relief and greatly improve your quality of life.
(623) 292-3201 View (623) 292-3201

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Chronic Pain Therapists

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.