Photo of Alisa Flakes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Alisa Flakes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
I believe in the power of collective healing, and I would love to help you navigate through your pain and equip you with tools to make your recovery possible.
Hello, my name is Alisa Flakes and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I work with individuals ages 13+, couples, and families in a variety of areas including addiction, anger management, anxiety, behavioral issues, coping skills, cultural stress, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, grief, and trauma & PTSD, amongst others. My approach is strength-based, solution focused and utilizes several modalities such as ACT, CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Gottman Method, Gestalt, and more.
I believe in the power of collective healing, and I would love to help you navigate through your pain and equip you with tools to make your recovery possible.
Hello, my name is Alisa Flakes and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I work with individuals ages 13+, couples, and families in a variety of areas including addiction, anger management, anxiety, behavioral issues, coping skills, cultural stress, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, grief, and trauma & PTSD, amongst others. My approach is strength-based, solution focused and utilizes several modalities such as ACT, CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Gottman Method, Gestalt, and more.
(408) 539-8691 View (408) 539-8691
Photo of Sandra Guillen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Sandra Guillen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93313
Hi, my name is Sandra Guillen. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California and have a Master of Arts in Psychology with an emphasize in Marriage and Family Therapy degree from Chapman University.  I believe therapy is most beneficial when the client feels heard and supported. This is why I prefer a client center approach when practicing therapy. My focus is in trauma work to include PTSD and complex trauma.
Hi, my name is Sandra Guillen. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California and have a Master of Arts in Psychology with an emphasize in Marriage and Family Therapy degree from Chapman University.  I believe therapy is most beneficial when the client feels heard and supported. This is why I prefer a client center approach when practicing therapy. My focus is in trauma work to include PTSD and complex trauma.
(661) 768-1358 View (661) 768-1358
Photo of Positive Psychology by Zion Technology , Counselor in Kern County, CA
Positive Psychology by Zion Technology
Counselor, PPP
Verified Verified
California City, CA 93504  (Online Only)
Experience Peace through Mindfulness! With expert personal support- increase happiness enjoy life open your creativity & unlock your potential. Resources- meditation and sleep exercise, clinical studies character strength survey. free 15 minute consultation also learn to organize thoughts and emotions, achieve goals with resilience, overcome irrational thoughts, denial and avoidance & replace with acceptance and action, experience spiritual growth and maturity, combat depression irrational thoughts and sadness. Increase communication skills with others also relationships. Learn techniques to increase happiness and achieve your goals
Experience Peace through Mindfulness! With expert personal support- increase happiness enjoy life open your creativity & unlock your potential. Resources- meditation and sleep exercise, clinical studies character strength survey. free 15 minute consultation also learn to organize thoughts and emotions, achieve goals with resilience, overcome irrational thoughts, denial and avoidance & replace with acceptance and action, experience spiritual growth and maturity, combat depression irrational thoughts and sadness. Increase communication skills with others also relationships. Learn techniques to increase happiness and achieve your goals
(541) 262-0799 View (541) 262-0799
Photo of Shari Balbien, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Shari Balbien
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
Hi there! My name is Shari Balbien, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children as young as five years of age, adolescents, families, and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, as well as issues related to trauma, self-esteem, and grief. I have found that my style and approach are a good match for young children, families, and couples, who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and communication issues.
Hi there! My name is Shari Balbien, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children as young as five years of age, adolescents, families, and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, as well as issues related to trauma, self-esteem, and grief. I have found that my style and approach are a good match for young children, families, and couples, who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and communication issues.
(805) 855-1505 View (805) 855-1505
Photo of The Mindful Lemon , Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
The Mindful Lemon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93304  (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
(661) 221-7049 View (661) 221-7049

Online Therapists

Photo of Monica Shahbaznia Alvarez, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Monica Shahbaznia Alvarez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
I've 25 years of experience treating FAMILIES, COUPLES, INDIVIDUALS, CHILDREN & ADOLESCENTS. I can help you identify your challenges, guide you to meet your goals, and support you in becoming your personal best! You have the ability to find strength within to welcome change & learn ways to improve your life & relationships. MARRIAGES & FAMILIES can be affected by stress, illness, trauma, misunderstandings, & various challenges. Unions can be rebuilt. CHILDREN & TEENS have wonderful & distinctive ways of expressing themselves. They can MEET THEIR GOALS when they REALIZE THEIR POTENTIAL by understanding their strengths & weaknesses.
I've 25 years of experience treating FAMILIES, COUPLES, INDIVIDUALS, CHILDREN & ADOLESCENTS. I can help you identify your challenges, guide you to meet your goals, and support you in becoming your personal best! You have the ability to find strength within to welcome change & learn ways to improve your life & relationships. MARRIAGES & FAMILIES can be affected by stress, illness, trauma, misunderstandings, & various challenges. Unions can be rebuilt. CHILDREN & TEENS have wonderful & distinctive ways of expressing themselves. They can MEET THEIR GOALS when they REALIZE THEIR POTENTIAL by understanding their strengths & weaknesses.
(424) 260-2874 View (424) 260-2874
Photo of Jessica Dawn Russell in Kern County, CA
Jessica Dawn Russell
CHT, CCht, NBC-HWC, BA psy, Coach, Health, CBIT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Living and watching emotional pain turn to mental or physical change is also scary.
I am the founder of both The Hypnotherapy Centers and The HTC Therapy Group. My clients are primarily adults and seniors, yet I work with teens. I have very comfortable and safe offices in Encino, Beverly Hills, & West Los Angeles. I also work remote. I have strong experience working with anxiety, depression, complex circumstances &mental health disorders, including medical, pain and health issues involving nervous, autoimmune, and specific uncommon illness management, addiction, &smoking. I offer strong interactive rapport. My client base involves professionals, entertainment & sports as well as clients in need of creative hours.
Living and watching emotional pain turn to mental or physical change is also scary.
I am the founder of both The Hypnotherapy Centers and The HTC Therapy Group. My clients are primarily adults and seniors, yet I work with teens. I have very comfortable and safe offices in Encino, Beverly Hills, & West Los Angeles. I also work remote. I have strong experience working with anxiety, depression, complex circumstances &mental health disorders, including medical, pain and health issues involving nervous, autoimmune, and specific uncommon illness management, addiction, &smoking. I offer strong interactive rapport. My client base involves professionals, entertainment & sports as well as clients in need of creative hours.
(424) 364-2061 View (424) 364-2061
Photo of Dr. Cassidy Blair, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Dr. Cassidy Blair
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
(424) 888-6124 View (424) 888-6124
Photo of Allan Silverstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Allan Silverstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
), but I also have much experience dealing with trauma, parenting concerns, chronic pain, the elderly, and the psychological impact of medical conditions.
A good therapist has wisdom, compassion and the ability to connect deeply with you, while creating a safe healing environment. These are among the strengths that my patients ascribed to me during my many years as a Pediatrician... and that ultimately led me to a career in psychotherapy. Having raised two preadolescent daughters after my wife died, I have experienced many of life's tragedies, celebrations, anxieties and fears. With empathy, expertise, and kindness, I've helped countless individuals and families work through their issues. I would look forward to doing the same with you. I employ HUMOR when appropriate and useful.
), but I also have much experience dealing with trauma, parenting concerns, chronic pain, the elderly, and the psychological impact of medical conditions.
A good therapist has wisdom, compassion and the ability to connect deeply with you, while creating a safe healing environment. These are among the strengths that my patients ascribed to me during my many years as a Pediatrician... and that ultimately led me to a career in psychotherapy. Having raised two preadolescent daughters after my wife died, I have experienced many of life's tragedies, celebrations, anxieties and fears. With empathy, expertise, and kindness, I've helped countless individuals and families work through their issues. I would look forward to doing the same with you. I employ HUMOR when appropriate and useful.
(424) 324-5167 View (424) 324-5167
Photo of Sacred Space Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Sacred Space Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Porterville, CA 93257  (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, illness, feeling stuck, worry, fear, and other symptoms are the soul's attempt to point us in the right direction towards feeling fully alive. I am passionate about helping people heal from their past experiences or repetitive patterns which no longer serve a purpose and distance them from their authentic selves. I help people who are healing from Lyme and /or coinfections, mold, or environmental toxins.
Anxiety, depression, illness, feeling stuck, worry, fear, and other symptoms are the soul's attempt to point us in the right direction towards feeling fully alive. I am passionate about helping people heal from their past experiences or repetitive patterns which no longer serve a purpose and distance them from their authentic selves. I help people who are healing from Lyme and /or coinfections, mold, or environmental toxins.
(559) 884-5817 View (559) 884-5817
Photo of David Schwartz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
David Schwartz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Hills, CA 91307
I have seen many people in emotional pain who can't find their way out.
Struggling with your marriage? Have a teenager who seems out of control? Are you dealing with relationship issues? If you have any of these situations going on in your life, give me a call. I have years of experience dealing with these issues and would love to be able to help you. I work with couples, individuals and teens. I also do telehealth sessions with HIPPA-compliant websites. If you are struggling and really could use a non-judgmental, empathetic person to listen to you and work to discover ways you can lead your best life, I'm here and ready to talk.
I have seen many people in emotional pain who can't find their way out.
Struggling with your marriage? Have a teenager who seems out of control? Are you dealing with relationship issues? If you have any of these situations going on in your life, give me a call. I have years of experience dealing with these issues and would love to be able to help you. I work with couples, individuals and teens. I also do telehealth sessions with HIPPA-compliant websites. If you are struggling and really could use a non-judgmental, empathetic person to listen to you and work to discover ways you can lead your best life, I'm here and ready to talk.
(747) 297-8162 View (747) 297-8162
Photo of Michelle Susan Webber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Michelle Susan Webber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hollywood, CA 90028  (Online Only)
I have worked with couples, individuals, and families, adolescents in crisis, the LGBTQ+ community, women in treatment, addicts/recovering addicts, HIV and AIDS, sufferers of chronic pain, people dealing with grief and loss, and those interested in pursuing mindfulness.
Licensed in both California and Connecticut - Psychotherapist, Addiction Specialist and Life Coach. Living life to the fullest is an adventure. It takes courage to go forward, to harness the power within. This is where Psychotherapy and Life Coaching meet. This is an opportunity to help you make smart choices and assist you in finding a sense of peace and acceptance while you move forward in your life. I am available to help you reach your personal and professional goals. I have studied mindfulness and work with clients who want to know more about it and embrace it. I look forward to hearing from you.
I have worked with couples, individuals, and families, adolescents in crisis, the LGBTQ+ community, women in treatment, addicts/recovering addicts, HIV and AIDS, sufferers of chronic pain, people dealing with grief and loss, and those interested in pursuing mindfulness.
Licensed in both California and Connecticut - Psychotherapist, Addiction Specialist and Life Coach. Living life to the fullest is an adventure. It takes courage to go forward, to harness the power within. This is where Psychotherapy and Life Coaching meet. This is an opportunity to help you make smart choices and assist you in finding a sense of peace and acceptance while you move forward in your life. I am available to help you reach your personal and professional goals. I have studied mindfulness and work with clients who want to know more about it and embrace it. I look forward to hearing from you.
(323) 523-5957 View (323) 523-5957
Photo of Roger William Coger, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Roger William Coger
Psychologist, PhD, P, H, D
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065  (Online Only)
I have had extensive experience with families that have ADHD and communication problems and have worked with medical teams for treatment of chronic pain and disabilities.
I have a wide range of training and experience working to help people with depression, anxiety, and problems with attention, concentration, and organization. This includes children with learning and behavior problems and adults with social interaction difficulties. Soldiers Project to treat soldiers returning from deployment, with deployment related problems, and their families. My primary goal is to aid people in finding their way to a happier life by identifying emotional and cognitive barriers.
I have had extensive experience with families that have ADHD and communication problems and have worked with medical teams for treatment of chronic pain and disabilities.
I have a wide range of training and experience working to help people with depression, anxiety, and problems with attention, concentration, and organization. This includes children with learning and behavior problems and adults with social interaction difficulties. Soldiers Project to treat soldiers returning from deployment, with deployment related problems, and their families. My primary goal is to aid people in finding their way to a happier life by identifying emotional and cognitive barriers.
(805) 526-4444 View (805) 526-4444
Photo of Kristen Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Kristen Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I provide therapy for adolescents and adults seeking help with issues including parenting, divorce, stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, communication, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, grief, life-changing events, and others. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can identify and explore the underlying beliefs driving your behaviors, shaping your habits, and impacting your relationships. Working together using therapeutic approaches such as mindfulness, CBT, narrative therapy, DBT, etc., you will learn to better manage emotions and behaviors, allowing you to meet your own personal goals.
I provide therapy for adolescents and adults seeking help with issues including parenting, divorce, stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, communication, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, grief, life-changing events, and others. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can identify and explore the underlying beliefs driving your behaviors, shaping your habits, and impacting your relationships. Working together using therapeutic approaches such as mindfulness, CBT, narrative therapy, DBT, etc., you will learn to better manage emotions and behaviors, allowing you to meet your own personal goals.
(747) 236-6609 View (747) 236-6609
Photo of Ronald R Hall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Ronald R Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CTS, BSCC, PM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Dimas, CA 91773
Want a caring, encouraging, highly-trained Christian Therapist? I am ready to help you find solutions! I have 20 years of experience in helping with depression; anxiety; grief; trauma/victimization; relationships; marriage; child, teenager, family issues; ADD; and, codependency / addictions as well as a Care Pastor and Clinical Director dealing with Recovery. I care about helping you find answers to your life problems. Together we will make a plan of action. I will give you honest feedback on a weekly basis about your progress. I would feel honored to have the opportunity to help you. Give me a call with questions!
Want a caring, encouraging, highly-trained Christian Therapist? I am ready to help you find solutions! I have 20 years of experience in helping with depression; anxiety; grief; trauma/victimization; relationships; marriage; child, teenager, family issues; ADD; and, codependency / addictions as well as a Care Pastor and Clinical Director dealing with Recovery. I care about helping you find answers to your life problems. Together we will make a plan of action. I will give you honest feedback on a weekly basis about your progress. I would feel honored to have the opportunity to help you. Give me a call with questions!
(951) 255-2340 View (951) 255-2340
Photo of Nancy Lozano-Stecyk, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Nancy Lozano-Stecyk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91502
Feeling stressed, overwhelmed and stuck in your current situation? I'm happy to help you navigate not only the stressors inherent in everyday life, but also guide you in overcoming the effects from past failed relationships, traumas and anxieties that keep you feeling stuck, scared, and overwhelmed. Many times those issues affect your work performance, ability to create meaningful relationships and negatively impact your physical health.
Feeling stressed, overwhelmed and stuck in your current situation? I'm happy to help you navigate not only the stressors inherent in everyday life, but also guide you in overcoming the effects from past failed relationships, traumas and anxieties that keep you feeling stuck, scared, and overwhelmed. Many times those issues affect your work performance, ability to create meaningful relationships and negatively impact your physical health.
(323) 870-6348 View (323) 870-6348
Photo of Erika Carter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Erika Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel alone carrying the weight of your trauma, I am here to help you begin your journey towards healing. I provide treatment for children and their families that experience depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, autism spectrum, parenting skills, and other mental health issues. I approach each of my clients with a kind, compassionate, and caring approach to form a genuine therapeutic bond where you will feel comfortable, be understood, and have hope knowing you do not have to carry the burden alone.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel alone carrying the weight of your trauma, I am here to help you begin your journey towards healing. I provide treatment for children and their families that experience depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, autism spectrum, parenting skills, and other mental health issues. I approach each of my clients with a kind, compassionate, and caring approach to form a genuine therapeutic bond where you will feel comfortable, be understood, and have hope knowing you do not have to carry the burden alone.
(424) 381-0277 View (424) 381-0277
Photo of Nicole Goldberg, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Nicole Goldberg
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Are you interested in learning more about a therapeutic journey where art, play, and creativity will become powerful tools for healing and growth? I'm here to guide you through a world where therapy isn't just about talking – it's about painting, sculpting, and imagining. As a therapist deeply passionate about working with children, I've discovered that art, expressive arts, and play therapy offer profound avenues for emotional expression and transformation. So, if you're ready to witness your child's potential unfold in a space where imagination knows no bounds, I would be so honored to be a part of your journey!
Are you interested in learning more about a therapeutic journey where art, play, and creativity will become powerful tools for healing and growth? I'm here to guide you through a world where therapy isn't just about talking – it's about painting, sculpting, and imagining. As a therapist deeply passionate about working with children, I've discovered that art, expressive arts, and play therapy offer profound avenues for emotional expression and transformation. So, if you're ready to witness your child's potential unfold in a space where imagination knows no bounds, I would be so honored to be a part of your journey!
(424) 407-4775 View (424) 407-4775
Photo of McDermott Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
McDermott Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Visalia, CA 93291
McDermott Counseling offers a modern, collaborative approach to therapy. Voted best Psychotherapy practice in Visalia 4 years in a row, we work with clients suffering from relationship concerns, family issues, trauma, conflict, depression, anxiety, sexuality, gender, blended families, anger management, and much more. We specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy as well as child and adolescent therapy. We work to provide you excellent service, a welcoming environment and solutions to your unique situation. We offer evening and weekend appointments and can often get you an appointment within the week.
McDermott Counseling offers a modern, collaborative approach to therapy. Voted best Psychotherapy practice in Visalia 4 years in a row, we work with clients suffering from relationship concerns, family issues, trauma, conflict, depression, anxiety, sexuality, gender, blended families, anger management, and much more. We specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy as well as child and adolescent therapy. We work to provide you excellent service, a welcoming environment and solutions to your unique situation. We offer evening and weekend appointments and can often get you an appointment within the week.
(559) 280-5756 View (559) 280-5756
Photo of Dr. Afton Blake, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Dr. Afton Blake
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90065
As a therapist, I will act as your guide as you work to develop healthy relationships, create meaningful work, explore your relationship with society, and evolve on your spiritual path. Together, we will choose from a variety of therapeutic approaches (including imagery, dreamwork, and regression) to journey through your past life and future visions. The adventure of coming to know your authentic self will allow you to create the meaningful changes in your life that you are seeking.
As a therapist, I will act as your guide as you work to develop healthy relationships, create meaningful work, explore your relationship with society, and evolve on your spiritual path. Together, we will choose from a variety of therapeutic approaches (including imagery, dreamwork, and regression) to journey through your past life and future visions. The adventure of coming to know your authentic self will allow you to create the meaningful changes in your life that you are seeking.
(323) 366-8269 View (323) 366-8269

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.