Chronic Pain Therapists in Sacramento, CA

Photo of Sarah Hammill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Sarah Hammill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
I have extensive experience treating individuals with chronic and terminal illness, chronic pain, Borderline Personality Disorder, and addiction.
Have you survived a trauma but can't shake the effects of it? Do you want help reclaiming your thoughts, feelings and relationships? I specialize in treating people who have experienced traumatic events such as sexual assault, sudden loss, childhood abuse or divorce. I work with my clients to treat common trauma symptoms such as depression, anxiety, issues with sexuality, and chronic pain. Because trauma affects the body, I combine traditional psychotherapy with a somatic focus to bring relief to the whole self. Ultimately, we work together to alleviate distress and create a life you love.
I have extensive experience treating individuals with chronic and terminal illness, chronic pain, Borderline Personality Disorder, and addiction.
Have you survived a trauma but can't shake the effects of it? Do you want help reclaiming your thoughts, feelings and relationships? I specialize in treating people who have experienced traumatic events such as sexual assault, sudden loss, childhood abuse or divorce. I work with my clients to treat common trauma symptoms such as depression, anxiety, issues with sexuality, and chronic pain. Because trauma affects the body, I combine traditional psychotherapy with a somatic focus to bring relief to the whole self. Ultimately, we work together to alleviate distress and create a life you love.
(510) 454-8430 View (510) 454-8430
Photo of Debra Miller, Psychologist in Sacramento, CA
Debra Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 94205
I offer in person and tele therapy. My goal is to provide a safe and caring environment. I enjoy working with a wide variety of people. I specialize in those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, chronic pain, addiction, trauma and PTSD. I work with clients who are dealing with opioid and/or benzodiazepine abuse/dependency. My style is a common sense, straight forward approach. I believe that the connection between the therapist and client is the most important piece in the therapeutic process.
I offer in person and tele therapy. My goal is to provide a safe and caring environment. I enjoy working with a wide variety of people. I specialize in those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, chronic pain, addiction, trauma and PTSD. I work with clients who are dealing with opioid and/or benzodiazepine abuse/dependency. My style is a common sense, straight forward approach. I believe that the connection between the therapist and client is the most important piece in the therapeutic process.
(530) 475-6710 View (530) 475-6710
Photo of Karen Olson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Karen Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95820
Hi there, I'm Karen Olson, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been a social worker for over 20 years. I help people with issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, divorce, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My approach is direct and frank and I enjoy helping individuals and couples identify their strengths and overcome challenges. I take an eclectic approach that includes a variety of narrative/motivational interviewing. My ideal client is amenable to my direct approach and is as invested as I am in achieving their goals. I like feedback from clients on how they are doing and how our sessions are going.
Hi there, I'm Karen Olson, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been a social worker for over 20 years. I help people with issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, divorce, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My approach is direct and frank and I enjoy helping individuals and couples identify their strengths and overcome challenges. I take an eclectic approach that includes a variety of narrative/motivational interviewing. My ideal client is amenable to my direct approach and is as invested as I am in achieving their goals. I like feedback from clients on how they are doing and how our sessions are going.
(619) 374-8492 View (619) 374-8492
Photo of Catherine Zanzi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Catherine Zanzi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95826
You can bring more peace into your life, strengthen your relationships, and increase your joy! I would love to work with you. By integrating healthy principles of mind, body, and spirit, I can help you rediscover and develop your core strengths. You will learn new tools to help heal emotional pain, communicate more effectively, decrease your stress, and increase your life enjoyment. You are worthy of unconditional love and acceptance, and you hold unique gifts to share with the world. Let's work together to use your unique strengths for self-healing.
You can bring more peace into your life, strengthen your relationships, and increase your joy! I would love to work with you. By integrating healthy principles of mind, body, and spirit, I can help you rediscover and develop your core strengths. You will learn new tools to help heal emotional pain, communicate more effectively, decrease your stress, and increase your life enjoyment. You are worthy of unconditional love and acceptance, and you hold unique gifts to share with the world. Let's work together to use your unique strengths for self-healing.
(916) 678-1977 View (916) 678-1977
Photo of Kelly Pemberton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Kelly Pemberton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT, LEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95819  (Online Only)
You are committed to feeling better, you've tried everything, but still you feel lost in the pain. You've always been able to "fix" things in your life, why not this? This time, you feel stuck. Maybe you feel gripped by anxiety or panic. Maybe you feel consumed by grief from trauma or loss of a person, pet, or life dream. Maybe you're finding yourself in new life circumstances (a significant health challenge, life milestone, career or relationship change) and wonder "who am I now"? Life has a way of challenging us. There is a way through.
You are committed to feeling better, you've tried everything, but still you feel lost in the pain. You've always been able to "fix" things in your life, why not this? This time, you feel stuck. Maybe you feel gripped by anxiety or panic. Maybe you feel consumed by grief from trauma or loss of a person, pet, or life dream. Maybe you're finding yourself in new life circumstances (a significant health challenge, life milestone, career or relationship change) and wonder "who am I now"? Life has a way of challenging us. There is a way through.
(916) 432-2011 View (916) 432-2011
Photo of Joanne Nichols Kuchera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Joanne Nichols Kuchera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
Individual counseling sessions are available for adolescents and adults for the treatment of : Stress and Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Trauma and Abuse, Life Transitions (grief and loss, divorce, career changes and retirement, dealing with aging parents), Chronic Pain, Parenting, Infertility, Eating and Weight issues.
As a practicing therapist for over 20 years, I have the privilege of working collaboratively with my clients to assist them in finding solutions to their problems and learning how to live life more authentically and with greater joy. Whatever your circumstance, if you're struggling to make changes, therapy and developing greater insight, may be just the energy you need to make the change you want. I believe that everyone has capacity for positive change and personal development, and that working together we can synergistically accomplish greater things than on our own.
Individual counseling sessions are available for adolescents and adults for the treatment of : Stress and Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Trauma and Abuse, Life Transitions (grief and loss, divorce, career changes and retirement, dealing with aging parents), Chronic Pain, Parenting, Infertility, Eating and Weight issues.
As a practicing therapist for over 20 years, I have the privilege of working collaboratively with my clients to assist them in finding solutions to their problems and learning how to live life more authentically and with greater joy. Whatever your circumstance, if you're struggling to make changes, therapy and developing greater insight, may be just the energy you need to make the change you want. I believe that everyone has capacity for positive change and personal development, and that working together we can synergistically accomplish greater things than on our own.
(916) 713-5014 View (916) 713-5014
Photo of Thomas Sterling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Thomas Sterling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95811
Have you experienced single event or multiple traumas? Do you experience anxiety, depression or chronic pain from syndromes? Have you experienced developmental trauma, a chaotic childhood or other chronic traumatic stress? I specialize in Somatic Experiencing, an exciting and powerful treatment approach to working with these complex issues.
There are many paths to healing and change. The journey is an active one and there is success in simply taking the first step, acknowledging a change is needed. I have worked in mental health services since 1988 and have worked with many different people and issues. I believe that developing awareness, of emotions, thoughts and behavior, is the starting place and that understanding where we come from, what got us here can be helpful, but changing how we feel today is the best way to have a sense of power. I specialize in somatic, or a body based approach to treatment of trauma. Please call or email me for a therapy session today.
Have you experienced single event or multiple traumas? Do you experience anxiety, depression or chronic pain from syndromes? Have you experienced developmental trauma, a chaotic childhood or other chronic traumatic stress? I specialize in Somatic Experiencing, an exciting and powerful treatment approach to working with these complex issues.
There are many paths to healing and change. The journey is an active one and there is success in simply taking the first step, acknowledging a change is needed. I have worked in mental health services since 1988 and have worked with many different people and issues. I believe that developing awareness, of emotions, thoughts and behavior, is the starting place and that understanding where we come from, what got us here can be helpful, but changing how we feel today is the best way to have a sense of power. I specialize in somatic, or a body based approach to treatment of trauma. Please call or email me for a therapy session today.
(916) 256-2932 View (916) 256-2932
Photo of Daneicia Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Daneicia Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
As a clinician I support individuals in healing from life's challenges which includes depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, chronic pain, compassion fatigue, college stress and financial stress.
I have 10 years' experience in the direct social service sector with an emphasis on geriatric services and adults with intellectual disabilities. These skills have assisted me in transitioning to become a clinician for the last few years. I have the privilege of helping people achieve a better quality of life by focusing on the strengths and contributions of all those we serve; from families to caregivers to community members. I am a firm believer that everyone should be treated with dignity and respect regardless of their background or situation.
As a clinician I support individuals in healing from life's challenges which includes depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, chronic pain, compassion fatigue, college stress and financial stress.
I have 10 years' experience in the direct social service sector with an emphasis on geriatric services and adults with intellectual disabilities. These skills have assisted me in transitioning to become a clinician for the last few years. I have the privilege of helping people achieve a better quality of life by focusing on the strengths and contributions of all those we serve; from families to caregivers to community members. I am a firm believer that everyone should be treated with dignity and respect regardless of their background or situation.
(916) 963-9453 View (916) 963-9453
Photo of Propel Therapeutics - Ketamine Wellness Center in Sacramento, CA
Propel Therapeutics - Ketamine Wellness Center
MD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
Ketamine can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD and chronic pain through neuroplasticity and cell modulation.
www.propeltherapeutics.com Are you suffering with chronic pain, debilitating anxiety, PTSD or intractable depression? Have you used multiple other modalities and medications to try and alleviate your physical and emotional pain but nothing is working? Ketamine therapy might be a solution for you! If you meet the indications for ketamine therapy we will work with you on an individualized plan. We are here to help!
Ketamine can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD and chronic pain through neuroplasticity and cell modulation.
www.propeltherapeutics.com Are you suffering with chronic pain, debilitating anxiety, PTSD or intractable depression? Have you used multiple other modalities and medications to try and alleviate your physical and emotional pain but nothing is working? Ketamine therapy might be a solution for you! If you meet the indications for ketamine therapy we will work with you on an individualized plan. We are here to help!
(916) 915-9215 View (916) 915-9215
Photo of Linda Lee Sessions, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Linda Lee Sessions
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MAHS, LMFT, MAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
My approach to therapy is based on integrating theories from a family systems perspective, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, & Attachment Theory. While I enjoy working with all client populations my specialties are LGBTQ issues, relationship issues, chronic illness and pain, terminal illness, grief and loss. I see each client as uniquely special, and deserving of life's best. My goal is to help each client discover who they are meant to be regardless of their experience. I especially like coaching individuals in the corporate setting, helping them to achieve their personal best in the office and at home.
My approach to therapy is based on integrating theories from a family systems perspective, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, & Attachment Theory. While I enjoy working with all client populations my specialties are LGBTQ issues, relationship issues, chronic illness and pain, terminal illness, grief and loss. I see each client as uniquely special, and deserving of life's best. My goal is to help each client discover who they are meant to be regardless of their experience. I especially like coaching individuals in the corporate setting, helping them to achieve their personal best in the office and at home.
(916) 252-5237 View (916) 252-5237
Photo of Stephanie Brodsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Stephanie Brodsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, adolescents and families. I specialize in working with issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss. I help individuals with addictions issues, parenting, and have a special interest in pain management and pregnancy/postpartum counseling. I have special training in mindfulness techniques, addiction and mind/body connection as well as cross-cultural issues. My approach to therapy is supportive, educational, challenging and collaborative.
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, adolescents and families. I specialize in working with issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss. I help individuals with addictions issues, parenting, and have a special interest in pain management and pregnancy/postpartum counseling. I have special training in mindfulness techniques, addiction and mind/body connection as well as cross-cultural issues. My approach to therapy is supportive, educational, challenging and collaborative.
(916) 525-8570 View (916) 525-8570
Photo of Nina Unger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Nina Unger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RN, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95811
I find that my healthcare background helps me work successfully with many issues related to health and illness.
Therapy is a process which demands great courage and patience with yourself. I hope that you will find the therapist with the right fit for you. I am especially interested in working with couples and relationship issues, caregiver/eldercare dilemmas, grief and loss and men's issues. I approach clients from a holistic perspective with a background in nursing and social work.
I find that my healthcare background helps me work successfully with many issues related to health and illness.
Therapy is a process which demands great courage and patience with yourself. I hope that you will find the therapist with the right fit for you. I am especially interested in working with couples and relationship issues, caregiver/eldercare dilemmas, grief and loss and men's issues. I approach clients from a holistic perspective with a background in nursing and social work.
(916) 546-9713 View (916) 546-9713
Photo of Catherine Cohen, Psychologist in Sacramento, CA
Catherine Cohen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
In my practice, I blend a warm, compassionate and respectful approach along with solid science and practical experience. Clients find that the simple act of talking in therapy provides a wealth of information which in turn brings decisions about what to do. My special areas of focus Include work with abuse and trauma survivors, relationship and intimacy issues, work concerns, culture and identity concerns, & chronic illness and health. I welcome adults and adolescents to my practice, and offer individual, couples and family therapy.
In my practice, I blend a warm, compassionate and respectful approach along with solid science and practical experience. Clients find that the simple act of talking in therapy provides a wealth of information which in turn brings decisions about what to do. My special areas of focus Include work with abuse and trauma survivors, relationship and intimacy issues, work concerns, culture and identity concerns, & chronic illness and health. I welcome adults and adolescents to my practice, and offer individual, couples and family therapy.
(916) 444-8834 View (916) 444-8834
Photo of Deborah Miller-Froh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Deborah Miller-Froh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
Waitlist for new clients
I work with people who are struggling, and decide take the courageous step to ask for help. Many have a history of trauma and suffer from anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addiction, parenting challenges, sleep issues, sexual difficulties, chronic pain, relationship problems, and other post-traumatic responses. Also, present-day situations in our personal or collective worlds can be objectively hard to bear. Our experiences leave traces psychologically and somatically, so I use evidence-based, body-oriented, mindfulness techniques to address limiting patterns so that you can live more authentically today's challenging world.
I work with people who are struggling, and decide take the courageous step to ask for help. Many have a history of trauma and suffer from anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addiction, parenting challenges, sleep issues, sexual difficulties, chronic pain, relationship problems, and other post-traumatic responses. Also, present-day situations in our personal or collective worlds can be objectively hard to bear. Our experiences leave traces psychologically and somatically, so I use evidence-based, body-oriented, mindfulness techniques to address limiting patterns so that you can live more authentically today's challenging world.
(916) 378-6706 View (916) 378-6706
Photo of Brain Health Clinic, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Brain Health Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT, BCN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95819
Here is the focus areas of treatment: Traumatic Brain Injury, Better Brain Function, Holistic Care (relating to overall mental wellness), Nutritional Counseling, Stress and Anxiety, Chronic Pain, Depression, Migraines, Insomnia, Attention Deficit Disorder, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
At the Brain Health Clinic Our mission is to help you discover or rediscover your potential by leading a life that is more satisfying. We do this through many avenues. We offer biofeedback, neurofeedback, neuromodulation and psychotherapy. If you are seeking a therapist, it is likely because you are experiencing significant upset in your life. It is as important to us as it is to you that we have the right relationship that works for both of us. Give us a call and we will find the right therapist within our group for you.
Here is the focus areas of treatment: Traumatic Brain Injury, Better Brain Function, Holistic Care (relating to overall mental wellness), Nutritional Counseling, Stress and Anxiety, Chronic Pain, Depression, Migraines, Insomnia, Attention Deficit Disorder, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
At the Brain Health Clinic Our mission is to help you discover or rediscover your potential by leading a life that is more satisfying. We do this through many avenues. We offer biofeedback, neurofeedback, neuromodulation and psychotherapy. If you are seeking a therapist, it is likely because you are experiencing significant upset in your life. It is as important to us as it is to you that we have the right relationship that works for both of us. Give us a call and we will find the right therapist within our group for you.
(916) 398-2613 View (916) 398-2613
Photo of Ana Hernandez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Ana Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95817  (Online Only)
In the game of life, a positive mindset is your secret weapon. It turns challenges into opportunities and obstacles into stepping stones. Unfortunately, many individuals find themselves trapped in negativity due to childhood trauma, abusive relationships, or toxic work environments. Making positive life changes starts with understanding your own story and taking courageous steps towards creating a life that brings you joy. My mission is to offer a safe and nurturing environment where you can work through your pain, identify patterns that have kept you feeling stuck and negative, and embark on a journey toward positivity.
In the game of life, a positive mindset is your secret weapon. It turns challenges into opportunities and obstacles into stepping stones. Unfortunately, many individuals find themselves trapped in negativity due to childhood trauma, abusive relationships, or toxic work environments. Making positive life changes starts with understanding your own story and taking courageous steps towards creating a life that brings you joy. My mission is to offer a safe and nurturing environment where you can work through your pain, identify patterns that have kept you feeling stuck and negative, and embark on a journey toward positivity.
(916) 623-7353 View (916) 623-7353
Photo of Meghann Crane-Russ, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Meghann Crane-Russ
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
I offer support for individuals experiencing illness through therapy & healthcare navigation coaching.
This wasn't how it was supposed to go. You're worried you will feel this way forever, that you will never feel like yourself again. Maybe you’re reading this because your parenting experience is not what you expected it to be, in fact, it’s probably been pretty awful so far. Perhaps you’ve experienced child, infant, or pregnancy loss and there are really no words to describe the void you feel right now. The loss is inexpressible and you feel so alone. Or you’re struggling to cope with chronic illness, grief, or life stressors. You feel like you’re hiking through a forest without a map... you just want to find a path forward.
I offer support for individuals experiencing illness through therapy & healthcare navigation coaching.
This wasn't how it was supposed to go. You're worried you will feel this way forever, that you will never feel like yourself again. Maybe you’re reading this because your parenting experience is not what you expected it to be, in fact, it’s probably been pretty awful so far. Perhaps you’ve experienced child, infant, or pregnancy loss and there are really no words to describe the void you feel right now. The loss is inexpressible and you feel so alone. Or you’re struggling to cope with chronic illness, grief, or life stressors. You feel like you’re hiking through a forest without a map... you just want to find a path forward.
(530) 670-0174 View (530) 670-0174
Photo of Daniel Rockers, Psychologist in Sacramento, CA
Daniel Rockers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95819
I was director of a multidisciplinary pain treatment center where the focus was on meaning and forward movement despite having a major health problem.
I help individuals realize their potential, whether it is in a spiritual direction or in motivation to perform better in life. The underlying principles are the same. I work in a "positive psychology" format, which means that there is often more focus on one's existing strengths, instead of on some deficit or illness. I help people look at the workings of the mind, and to improve through specific exercises and homework. The ideal client is one who recognizes that they feel stuck and is willing to take the necessary actions to begin moving forward.
I was director of a multidisciplinary pain treatment center where the focus was on meaning and forward movement despite having a major health problem.
I help individuals realize their potential, whether it is in a spiritual direction or in motivation to perform better in life. The underlying principles are the same. I work in a "positive psychology" format, which means that there is often more focus on one's existing strengths, instead of on some deficit or illness. I help people look at the workings of the mind, and to improve through specific exercises and homework. The ideal client is one who recognizes that they feel stuck and is willing to take the necessary actions to begin moving forward.
(916) 226-4407 View (916) 226-4407
Photo of Susan B O'Connell, Counselor in Sacramento, CA
Susan B O'Connell
Counselor, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95866  (Online Only)
I am especially interested in divorce, loss, grief, and chronic illness.
When you need help - and all of us need help sometime - you want to tell your story to someone who is warm and supportive. Someone who is intelligent, trained, and familiar with the problems you face. These problems may involve family or marital relationships, insecurity, anxiety, depression, loss, or grief. Or the problems may be specific to people undergoing divorce, immigrants struggling with American language and culture, or artists striving to make their mark. All of us want someone on our side who is caring and helpful, someone who can clarify and show the way. My goal is to be that person for my clients.
I am especially interested in divorce, loss, grief, and chronic illness.
When you need help - and all of us need help sometime - you want to tell your story to someone who is warm and supportive. Someone who is intelligent, trained, and familiar with the problems you face. These problems may involve family or marital relationships, insecurity, anxiety, depression, loss, or grief. Or the problems may be specific to people undergoing divorce, immigrants struggling with American language and culture, or artists striving to make their mark. All of us want someone on our side who is caring and helpful, someone who can clarify and show the way. My goal is to be that person for my clients.
(916) 318-3663 View (916) 318-3663
Photo of Michelle Segal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Michelle Segal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95826
I have worked with clients dealing with anxiety and depression, chronic illness, and life transitions.
My name is Michelle Segal and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (license 100143). I have over 5 years of experience working with individuals and families dealing with a variety of mental health and health-related issues. My main focus is to empower each client, focus on each of their strengths and make them feel comfortable and safe in a non-judgmental environment. The main therapeutic modalities I draw from include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Strengths-Based Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I have worked with clients dealing with anxiety and depression, chronic illness, and life transitions.
My name is Michelle Segal and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (license 100143). I have over 5 years of experience working with individuals and families dealing with a variety of mental health and health-related issues. My main focus is to empower each client, focus on each of their strengths and make them feel comfortable and safe in a non-judgmental environment. The main therapeutic modalities I draw from include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Strengths-Based Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
(916) 756-9234 View (916) 756-9234
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.