Photo of The Equine Healing Collaborative, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
The Equine Healing Collaborative
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923
Lewis, "cultivate states of relaxation, improve physical symptoms of pain and chronic illness, open our minds to greater insight, and enhance our physical health and sens of well being for fuller and more satisfying lives".
The Equine Healing Collaborative was created to provide a path to recovery, self-discovery, personal growth, a re-connection with the natural world, and/or emotional insight and health. The Equine Healing Collaborative offers more than just traditional talk therapy and utilizes interventions such as equine assisted therapy, mindfulness, and mindful equine massage to promote health and quality of life for individuals seeking change.
Lewis, "cultivate states of relaxation, improve physical symptoms of pain and chronic illness, open our minds to greater insight, and enhance our physical health and sens of well being for fuller and more satisfying lives".
The Equine Healing Collaborative was created to provide a path to recovery, self-discovery, personal growth, a re-connection with the natural world, and/or emotional insight and health. The Equine Healing Collaborative offers more than just traditional talk therapy and utilizes interventions such as equine assisted therapy, mindfulness, and mindful equine massage to promote health and quality of life for individuals seeking change.
(831) 750-1526 View (831) 750-1526
Photo of Jennifer Dentici, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Jennifer Dentici, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PCCi
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923
I offer video counseling & telehealth to ensure your safety! Specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship, divorce, parenting support, grief/loss, career, stress management, addiction, recovery, multicultural, and chronic illness.
Working collaboratively, in a way that feels supportive, we will identify and reach goals in a timely manner to ensure you gain initial and sustainable relief. I offer effective support. With over a decade of experience working in private practice, mental health agencies, and schools, I have the training, education, and experience required to effectively treat a wide range of issues. Please contact me for a consultation.
I offer video counseling & telehealth to ensure your safety! Specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship, divorce, parenting support, grief/loss, career, stress management, addiction, recovery, multicultural, and chronic illness.
Working collaboratively, in a way that feels supportive, we will identify and reach goals in a timely manner to ensure you gain initial and sustainable relief. I offer effective support. With over a decade of experience working in private practice, mental health agencies, and schools, I have the training, education, and experience required to effectively treat a wide range of issues. Please contact me for a consultation.
(831) 525-0097 View (831) 525-0097
Photo of Sonia Blue, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Sonia Blue
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923  (Online Only)
Change is possible and we DO get better! I have experienced this personally and have witnessed it again and again in my 30 years as a psychotherapist. I have been privileged to accompany countless individuals, couples and families on their journey to health and wholeness. Healing the past, relating to others with greater intimacy and authenticity, communicating more effectivley and creating meaning as we grow and change are just some of the possibilities positive, compassionate and effective therapy can offer.
Change is possible and we DO get better! I have experienced this personally and have witnessed it again and again in my 30 years as a psychotherapist. I have been privileged to accompany countless individuals, couples and families on their journey to health and wholeness. Healing the past, relating to others with greater intimacy and authenticity, communicating more effectivley and creating meaning as we grow and change are just some of the possibilities positive, compassionate and effective therapy can offer.
(831) 531-2730 View (831) 531-2730
Photo of Bonnie Rose Fernandez in Carmel, CA
Bonnie Rose Fernandez
MA, LMFT, Artist
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, or feelings of overwhelm? Do you sometimes feel lost or alone, even when you are with other people? Are there painful events in your history that continue to cause you suffering? Our work together can help you find a deeper understanding of these dynamics, and connection with yourself and others. I am a somatic psychotherapist with a collaborative and supportive approach, where together we find the right pace for your healing and growth.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, or feelings of overwhelm? Do you sometimes feel lost or alone, even when you are with other people? Are there painful events in your history that continue to cause you suffering? Our work together can help you find a deeper understanding of these dynamics, and connection with yourself and others. I am a somatic psychotherapist with a collaborative and supportive approach, where together we find the right pace for your healing and growth.
(831) 623-5126 x214 View (831) 623-5126 x214
Photo of Olivia Fae Stadler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Olivia Fae Stadler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Carmel, CA 93923
I warmly welcome you as you are, and hold a safe space to support your growth as your guide, witness, and companion. I enjoy working with clients who want more than traditional “talk” therapy. I offer experiential therapy, so you can go beyond cognitive understanding to having a transformative experience. I have an active style that is more than simply listening. I would describe the way I work as collaborative, curious, and challenging when it needs to be. I identify as a highly sensitive person (HSP) of gifted intelligence, both of which inform my work. My approach is mindfulness-based and somatic.
I warmly welcome you as you are, and hold a safe space to support your growth as your guide, witness, and companion. I enjoy working with clients who want more than traditional “talk” therapy. I offer experiential therapy, so you can go beyond cognitive understanding to having a transformative experience. I have an active style that is more than simply listening. I would describe the way I work as collaborative, curious, and challenging when it needs to be. I identify as a highly sensitive person (HSP) of gifted intelligence, both of which inform my work. My approach is mindfulness-based and somatic.
(415) 965-4452 View (415) 965-4452
Photo of Therapy Lab Monterey, Psychologist in Carmel, CA
Therapy Lab Monterey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923  (Online Only)
Therapy Lab offers individual teletherapy that's based on a plan. Visit our website (therapylab.com) to explore a menu of treatment plans based on common goals for therapy. With your input, we'll make a plan that's based on your goals, your timeline, and your budget. Our science-based plans are designed to support you in overcoming distress (anxiety, relationship problems, work stress) so you walk away with emotional health and insight. At your first session, your exceptionally qualified therapist will get to know you and pick or design a plan that’s customized to your situation.
Therapy Lab offers individual teletherapy that's based on a plan. Visit our website (therapylab.com) to explore a menu of treatment plans based on common goals for therapy. With your input, we'll make a plan that's based on your goals, your timeline, and your budget. Our science-based plans are designed to support you in overcoming distress (anxiety, relationship problems, work stress) so you walk away with emotional health and insight. At your first session, your exceptionally qualified therapist will get to know you and pick or design a plan that’s customized to your situation.
(831) 231-1429 View (831) 231-1429
Photo of Wellspring Psychological Services, Inc., Psychologist in Carmel, CA
Wellspring Psychological Services, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carmel, CA 93923
I am the founder of Wellspring Psychological Services and supervising psychologist for this group private practice. I specialize in creating mind and body wholeness, helping to bring balance back into life. I have a passion for working with teens and young adults, particularly because the challenges of adolescence require a unique and strong client/therapist personality fit. Students in residency and couples in transition can take advantage of my 15 years of clinical expertise. My mission is to create a therapeutic space where each person is able to fully show up and create a more contented and peaceful life.
I am the founder of Wellspring Psychological Services and supervising psychologist for this group private practice. I specialize in creating mind and body wholeness, helping to bring balance back into life. I have a passion for working with teens and young adults, particularly because the challenges of adolescence require a unique and strong client/therapist personality fit. Students in residency and couples in transition can take advantage of my 15 years of clinical expertise. My mission is to create a therapeutic space where each person is able to fully show up and create a more contented and peaceful life.
(831) 222-6388 View (831) 222-6388
Photo of Suzy Cowen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, CA
Suzy Cowen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923
Not accepting new clients
I wholeheartedly welcome you to my practice! Many of us are currently experiencing significant changes and, at times, upheavals in our everyday life. Upon reflection, you may be asking: What happened? How do I respond? How do I heal? What do I want to enhance in my life? Whether you are seeking deeper meaning, feeling anxious or overwhelmed, turning to maladaptive behaviors, or navigating complex relationships, I am here to hold a safe space for you. With compassion and intention, we will co-create an environment of learning and growth, unlocking the potential for soul-enriching change in your life.
I wholeheartedly welcome you to my practice! Many of us are currently experiencing significant changes and, at times, upheavals in our everyday life. Upon reflection, you may be asking: What happened? How do I respond? How do I heal? What do I want to enhance in my life? Whether you are seeking deeper meaning, feeling anxious or overwhelmed, turning to maladaptive behaviors, or navigating complex relationships, I am here to hold a safe space for you. With compassion and intention, we will co-create an environment of learning and growth, unlocking the potential for soul-enriching change in your life.
(831) 539-2858 View (831) 539-2858

Online Therapists

Photo of Loretta J. Ferris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Loretta J. Ferris, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Capitola, CA 95010
I work with individuals, couples and families whose lives have been impacted by life transitions. These transitions often include challenges related to relationships, careers, retirement, parenting, loss and grief, chronic pain, disability often include depression, anxiety and PTSD.
I work with individuals, couples and families whose lives have been impacted by life transitions. These transitions often include challenges related to relationships, careers, retirement, parenting, loss and grief, chronic pain, disability often include depression, anxiety and PTSD.
(831) 291-3411 View (831) 291-3411
Photo of Marian Carapezza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, CA
Marian Carapezza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salinas, CA 93901
People seek therapy because something in their life is not working. They are unhappy. I believe change is always possible and that I can help people live a fuller life. I have trust in everyone's ability to heal. Therapy is a process of being with another human being who wants to change, listening to his/her story, witnessing his/her pain, confusion and uncertainty. I believe that healing comes from acceptance of others and ourselves, remembering our strengths and developing healthy relationships. Therapy is a practice of Mindfulness; giving deep attention to what is happening in the present moment.
People seek therapy because something in their life is not working. They are unhappy. I believe change is always possible and that I can help people live a fuller life. I have trust in everyone's ability to heal. Therapy is a process of being with another human being who wants to change, listening to his/her story, witnessing his/her pain, confusion and uncertainty. I believe that healing comes from acceptance of others and ourselves, remembering our strengths and developing healthy relationships. Therapy is a practice of Mindfulness; giving deep attention to what is happening in the present moment.
(831) 269-5897 View (831) 269-5897
Photo of Robyn Martinez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, CA
Robyn Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, she/her
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Stuck in a pattern? A pattern that repeats itself almost magically again and again in your relationships, at work, or parenting. These patterns may have been helpful in the past, but now dull creativity and spirit, wearing down confidence, fortitude and hope. Or perhaps you are in the middle of change or in need of change painfully long overdue, but you just can’t...seem...to...fully...step...forward. I work with adults and couples to move through patterns of depression, anxiety, addiction, pain and trauma into growth and long awaited thriving.
Stuck in a pattern? A pattern that repeats itself almost magically again and again in your relationships, at work, or parenting. These patterns may have been helpful in the past, but now dull creativity and spirit, wearing down confidence, fortitude and hope. Or perhaps you are in the middle of change or in need of change painfully long overdue, but you just can’t...seem...to...fully...step...forward. I work with adults and couples to move through patterns of depression, anxiety, addiction, pain and trauma into growth and long awaited thriving.
(831) 318-5485 View (831) 318-5485
Photo of Ataraxy, Mental Health and Wellness, Psychologist in Carmel, CA
Ataraxy, Mental Health and Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT, IC&RC, CADC-II
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701  (Online Only)
Are you in denial about getting support because you feel you can manage, but deep inside you know the help and support could benefit you so much? If you are feeling depressed, anxious, having negative, and racing thoughts, and you are dealing with emotional pains because of trauma, addiction, relationship issues, and interpersonal challenges, the pain does not go away. You are struggling with obsessive thoughts, and impulse control because of fear and feeling misunderstood because of the mental health struggles. We are here to support you, work with us, we listen, empower, and transform. Start today to take control of your life.
Are you in denial about getting support because you feel you can manage, but deep inside you know the help and support could benefit you so much? If you are feeling depressed, anxious, having negative, and racing thoughts, and you are dealing with emotional pains because of trauma, addiction, relationship issues, and interpersonal challenges, the pain does not go away. You are struggling with obsessive thoughts, and impulse control because of fear and feeling misunderstood because of the mental health struggles. We are here to support you, work with us, we listen, empower, and transform. Start today to take control of your life.
(408) 762-3289 View (408) 762-3289
Photo of Carrie L Forrest, Psychologist in Carmel, CA
Carrie L Forrest
Psychologist, PhD, QME
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
I utilize my training and experience in Psychotherapy, Medical Hypnosis and Biofeedback to help you accomplish your desired goals. From my extensive background I utilize what will work best for you as an individual. A result of our work together is for you to become congruent within all aspects of your life; your actions, thoughts and feelings, while living to the fullest each and every day. I will help you overcome obstacles and develop healthy coping skills. I specialize in recovery from traumas (PTSD), grief and loss, integrating and assimilating chronic pain, addictive behaviors and other conditions.
I utilize my training and experience in Psychotherapy, Medical Hypnosis and Biofeedback to help you accomplish your desired goals. From my extensive background I utilize what will work best for you as an individual. A result of our work together is for you to become congruent within all aspects of your life; your actions, thoughts and feelings, while living to the fullest each and every day. I will help you overcome obstacles and develop healthy coping skills. I specialize in recovery from traumas (PTSD), grief and loss, integrating and assimilating chronic pain, addictive behaviors and other conditions.
(831) 337-4414 View (831) 337-4414
Photo of Joe Sousa, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Joe Sousa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Furthermore, my experience includes working with those with physical difficulties, such as sleeplessness, excessive weight loss or gain, and acute and chronic pain management.
Hi. I am Joe Sousa, a licensed psychotherapist in the State of CA. I've been providing counseling services in the Santa Cruz area in one form or another since 1993. Here's the issues I work with in therapy: Relationship enhancement, improve communication, sexual intimacy; handling difficulties, such as breakups and divorce; discovering life purpose and build self-esteem; issues relating to school, careers, money, a child or an elderly parent; dealing with powerful emotions, like anger, anxiety, depression, fear, grief, loss, and panic; addictive or compulsive behavior, with regard to alcohol, drugs, food, sex and/or porn.
Furthermore, my experience includes working with those with physical difficulties, such as sleeplessness, excessive weight loss or gain, and acute and chronic pain management.
Hi. I am Joe Sousa, a licensed psychotherapist in the State of CA. I've been providing counseling services in the Santa Cruz area in one form or another since 1993. Here's the issues I work with in therapy: Relationship enhancement, improve communication, sexual intimacy; handling difficulties, such as breakups and divorce; discovering life purpose and build self-esteem; issues relating to school, careers, money, a child or an elderly parent; dealing with powerful emotions, like anger, anxiety, depression, fear, grief, loss, and panic; addictive or compulsive behavior, with regard to alcohol, drugs, food, sex and/or porn.
(831) 219-4797 View (831) 219-4797
Photo of Erin Elfant, Psychologist in Carmel, CA
Erin Elfant
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
If you are struggling with an eating disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety/phobia, depression/ bipolar, chronic pain/ medical condition, sleep disturbance, or dual diagnosis/ substance abuse, you will find that my treatment framework allows you make considerable progress in symptom reduction each week. To bolster our in-person psychotherapy sessions, I provide email exchange throughout the week (at no additional cost) to help you make further progress toward your treatment goals. You will find me to be very accessible, knowledgeable, compassionate, and effective at addressing your specific therapy needs, and you will make important life changes more quickly than imagined.
If you are struggling with an eating disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety/phobia, depression/ bipolar, chronic pain/ medical condition, sleep disturbance, or dual diagnosis/ substance abuse, you will find that my treatment framework allows you make considerable progress in symptom reduction each week. To bolster our in-person psychotherapy sessions, I provide email exchange throughout the week (at no additional cost) to help you make further progress toward your treatment goals. You will find me to be very accessible, knowledgeable, compassionate, and effective at addressing your specific therapy needs, and you will make important life changes more quickly than imagined.
(805) 467-7274 View (805) 467-7274
Photo of Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling , Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Maria, CA 93455
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
(805) 876-9092 View (805) 876-9092
Photo of David C. Lichti, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
David C. Lichti, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Currently, I'm mostly using Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy with my clients. When, as a child, we find ourselves traumatizing or trapped in negative circumstances, parts of our self system compensate by locking away that which at that time was too much for us to handle. Later, if we do not go back to this locked away material, the pain, confusion and injustice of what happened to us long ago, can get triggered, or, awakened, when similar such challenges arise in the present. IFS provides a safe way for that locked away material to be approached and reprocessed, allowing our core self to take back control of our lives.
Currently, I'm mostly using Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy with my clients. When, as a child, we find ourselves traumatizing or trapped in negative circumstances, parts of our self system compensate by locking away that which at that time was too much for us to handle. Later, if we do not go back to this locked away material, the pain, confusion and injustice of what happened to us long ago, can get triggered, or, awakened, when similar such challenges arise in the present. IFS provides a safe way for that locked away material to be approached and reprocessed, allowing our core self to take back control of our lives.
(805) 250-4605 View (805) 250-4605
Photo of Michelle Moses LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, CA
Michelle Moses LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Do you find yourself up at night worrying? Do you cry in the shower, feel all alone or “not yourself?” My clients tell me they feel supported and safe to process out stress w/ spot focused attention-- this allows for quick relief from physical and/or emotional pain and creates space and energy for creative problem solving and creating your life in alignment!.
Pandemic. War. Existential shock; we can feel lack in our joy and our vitality; we feel overwhelm in body, mind and spirit. We can’t sleep, our relationships don’t feel right and we feel lost in the huge and scary waves of fear and worry about the past, the future and our survival...there is hope! we partner in practices to find compassion and radical acceptance; we dedicate space to cultivate and nourish the growth mindset and ourselves deeply— I hold sacred and safe spaces for womxn who feel stuck in fear and overwhelm so they can reboot and reconnect with their body wisdom and become the best version of themselves. regardless.
Do you find yourself up at night worrying? Do you cry in the shower, feel all alone or “not yourself?” My clients tell me they feel supported and safe to process out stress w/ spot focused attention-- this allows for quick relief from physical and/or emotional pain and creates space and energy for creative problem solving and creating your life in alignment!.
Pandemic. War. Existential shock; we can feel lack in our joy and our vitality; we feel overwhelm in body, mind and spirit. We can’t sleep, our relationships don’t feel right and we feel lost in the huge and scary waves of fear and worry about the past, the future and our survival...there is hope! we partner in practices to find compassion and radical acceptance; we dedicate space to cultivate and nourish the growth mindset and ourselves deeply— I hold sacred and safe spaces for womxn who feel stuck in fear and overwhelm so they can reboot and reconnect with their body wisdom and become the best version of themselves. regardless.
(831) 888-1594 View (831) 888-1594
Photo of Thomas Steffora, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Thomas Steffora
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Santa Maria, CA 93454
Waitlist for new clients
In my work with individuals and couples, depression and anxiety are frequently cited; but so too are medical problems, chronic pain, addiction issues, and effects on the family.
Rather than feel like the future is known and already laid out with predictable patterns of suffering, I'd like to suggest that perhaps this thought/feeling is an understandable predicament but one that is inherently false. The future is uncertain. It is a road not yet traveled. Working with someone who approaches life and relationships with this perspective may be an important piece of seeing what possibilities are present.
In my work with individuals and couples, depression and anxiety are frequently cited; but so too are medical problems, chronic pain, addiction issues, and effects on the family.
Rather than feel like the future is known and already laid out with predictable patterns of suffering, I'd like to suggest that perhaps this thought/feeling is an understandable predicament but one that is inherently false. The future is uncertain. It is a road not yet traveled. Working with someone who approaches life and relationships with this perspective may be an important piece of seeing what possibilities are present.
(805) 288-7787 View (805) 288-7787
Photo of Jillian Chesley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Jillian Chesley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
mental illness -The mind/body connection -Insurance pros and cons.
With a passion for inspiring individuals to claim their own personal excellence, my expertise is in understanding interpersonal dynamics, and successfully coaching individuals, couples, families and groups into reaching their highest self. My background includes a degree in Organizational Communication, a ten year career as a Technical/Corporate Instructor, and fifteen years of coaching/Therapy with a Master of Arts in MFT. Along with my private practice, I teach Zumba (dance inspired group fitness). I look forward to our meeting and becoming part of your journey.
mental illness -The mind/body connection -Insurance pros and cons.
With a passion for inspiring individuals to claim their own personal excellence, my expertise is in understanding interpersonal dynamics, and successfully coaching individuals, couples, families and groups into reaching their highest self. My background includes a degree in Organizational Communication, a ten year career as a Technical/Corporate Instructor, and fifteen years of coaching/Therapy with a Master of Arts in MFT. Along with my private practice, I teach Zumba (dance inspired group fitness). I look forward to our meeting and becoming part of your journey.
(831) 216-6826 View (831) 216-6826

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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.