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 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 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 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 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
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 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 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 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 Sierra Therapy Center in Sacramento, CA
Sierra Therapy Center
LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
Our story: Some of the best physicians are wounded healers, those who have walked through pain and suffering themselves only to emerge on the other side to help others. We believe strongly in the human capacity to heal. Our counseling specialists work with children/teens, adults, couples and families. With sensitivity and compassion, we help you bring resolution to the struggles you are facing. Modalities range from depth therapy, IMAGO couples therapy, Brainspotting, EMDR, play therapy, addiction groups to solution focused. We are trained in a variety of different therapeutic interventions that will fit what you need.
Our story: Some of the best physicians are wounded healers, those who have walked through pain and suffering themselves only to emerge on the other side to help others. We believe strongly in the human capacity to heal. Our counseling specialists work with children/teens, adults, couples and families. With sensitivity and compassion, we help you bring resolution to the struggles you are facing. Modalities range from depth therapy, IMAGO couples therapy, Brainspotting, EMDR, play therapy, addiction groups to solution focused. We are trained in a variety of different therapeutic interventions that will fit what you need.
(530) 419-5189 View (530) 419-5189
Photo of Constance Goins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Constance Goins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
Has depression, anxiety, chronic pain, or substance use tugged you off the course you thought your life would take? I truly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive and find meaning and fulfillment in life. With the right support, we can work to promote your recovery and better understand the core elements upholding addictive patterns and states of unwellness in your life. Teaching people how to love themselves first and to prioritize their mental and physical health is a critical first step to break the cycle of addiction.
Has depression, anxiety, chronic pain, or substance use tugged you off the course you thought your life would take? I truly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive and find meaning and fulfillment in life. With the right support, we can work to promote your recovery and better understand the core elements upholding addictive patterns and states of unwellness in your life. Teaching people how to love themselves first and to prioritize their mental and physical health is a critical first step to break the cycle of addiction.
(916) 655-9864 View (916) 655-9864
Photo of Rosemary Claire Miles, Psychologist in Sacramento, CA
Rosemary Claire Miles
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
Hi, and welcome. If you are reading this you are in preparation to take a big step to create important change in your life. I commend you. I specialize in treating chronic and acute PTSD resulting from both single and childhood trauma events; anxiety disorders, loss/bereavement and pain management. I am also a skilled couple therapist. As a seasoned professional with ample life experience. I hold a doctoral degree from Fielding Graduate University and am dual-licensed as a Clinical Psychologist and as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I am here to help you become your personal best with research driven treatments.
Hi, and welcome. If you are reading this you are in preparation to take a big step to create important change in your life. I commend you. I specialize in treating chronic and acute PTSD resulting from both single and childhood trauma events; anxiety disorders, loss/bereavement and pain management. I am also a skilled couple therapist. As a seasoned professional with ample life experience. I hold a doctoral degree from Fielding Graduate University and am dual-licensed as a Clinical Psychologist and as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I am here to help you become your personal best with research driven treatments.
(530) 756-0555 x121 View (530) 756-0555 x121
Photo of Joshua L Collver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Joshua L Collver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MHA
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95817  (Online Only)
Chronic pain, 3).
My intention as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) is to help individuals achieve optimal health, safety, and wellness. By reaching out and seeking help, you are taking a courageous step towards change. I offer a collaborative and supportive partnership in the service of addressing your struggles and life challenges. Services include: individual and family therapy, brief and long-term therapy, and clinical supervision of ASW. I treat adolescents ages 13-17 and adults. I utilize techniques from evidence based treatment approaches and specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT)
Chronic pain, 3).
My intention as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) is to help individuals achieve optimal health, safety, and wellness. By reaching out and seeking help, you are taking a courageous step towards change. I offer a collaborative and supportive partnership in the service of addressing your struggles and life challenges. Services include: individual and family therapy, brief and long-term therapy, and clinical supervision of ASW. I treat adolescents ages 13-17 and adults. I utilize techniques from evidence based treatment approaches and specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT)
(916) 823-8459 View (916) 823-8459
Photo of Hope for Healthy Families Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Hope for Healthy Families Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95823
Our staff is prepared to assist you in learning new ways to cope with the pain and distress that relationships and life can bring us.
Our non-profit counseling center offers affordable counseling to any member of the Elk Grove, Sacramento, and Galt communities. We are a low-cost options for those in need. We believe that we can help you find hope while learning how to live a more emotionally healthy life. Please call to set up an appointment or a free phone consultation.
Our staff is prepared to assist you in learning new ways to cope with the pain and distress that relationships and life can bring us.
Our non-profit counseling center offers affordable counseling to any member of the Elk Grove, Sacramento, and Galt communities. We are a low-cost options for those in need. We believe that we can help you find hope while learning how to live a more emotionally healthy life. Please call to set up an appointment or a free phone consultation.
(916) 659-7659 View (916) 659-7659
Photo of Cynthia Haartman: Psychotherapy, Sex Therapy, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Cynthia Haartman: Psychotherapy, Sex Therapy, EMDR
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 94203  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Sex Therapist, and also Certified in EMDR Therapy. My primary focus includes: intimacy and sexuality concerns, pelvic pain, fear and anxiety around intimacy, stress, trauma, anxiety, self worth, guilt and shame, neurodivergence/ADHD, chronic pain and chronic illness, as well as medical trauma, and manifestation of stress physically in the body. I am kink affirming and knowledgable, LGBTQ+/sexual and gender minority inclusive, and a sex positive provider.
I am a Certified Sex Therapist, and also Certified in EMDR Therapy. My primary focus includes: intimacy and sexuality concerns, pelvic pain, fear and anxiety around intimacy, stress, trauma, anxiety, self worth, guilt and shame, neurodivergence/ADHD, chronic pain and chronic illness, as well as medical trauma, and manifestation of stress physically in the body. I am kink affirming and knowledgable, LGBTQ+/sexual and gender minority inclusive, and a sex positive provider.
(408) 478-3890 View (408) 478-3890
Photo of Price Cusolito, Pre-Licensed Professional in Sacramento, CA
Price Cusolito
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 94203
I love collaborating with my clients in creating and sustaining the changes they wish to make and surprising them with how quickly and deeply these changes can take place. I have extensive experience with chronic illness, chronic pain, physical and emotional trauma, spirituality, parenting issues, grief and dying, and men's sexuality.
I love collaborating with my clients in creating and sustaining the changes they wish to make and surprising them with how quickly and deeply these changes can take place. I have extensive experience with chronic illness, chronic pain, physical and emotional trauma, spirituality, parenting issues, grief and dying, and men's sexuality.
(916) 818-1521 View (916) 818-1521
Photo of Laihin J Cheung, Psychotherapy & Consultation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Laihin J Cheung, Psychotherapy & Consultation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95821
You hear my sorrow and you realize my pain- This is the feedback I get from my clients.
I am a solution focused therapist. You will feel the relief of stresses in life after a few sessions. You would get better understanding of yourself, better coping problem solving skills to rebuild balance in life. My years of clinical experiences have propelled me to believe that most of the emotional and behavioral issues are trauma based that led me to inventing my trauma cleansing technique which is so powerful that it removes your trauma energy and the trauma images in minutes, you feel the difference in your mind body instantly. You are free from the trap of mental suffeinings. Please read the Google comments.
You hear my sorrow and you realize my pain- This is the feedback I get from my clients.
I am a solution focused therapist. You will feel the relief of stresses in life after a few sessions. You would get better understanding of yourself, better coping problem solving skills to rebuild balance in life. My years of clinical experiences have propelled me to believe that most of the emotional and behavioral issues are trauma based that led me to inventing my trauma cleansing technique which is so powerful that it removes your trauma energy and the trauma images in minutes, you feel the difference in your mind body instantly. You are free from the trap of mental suffeinings. Please read the Google comments.
(408) 560-3564 View (408) 560-3564
Photo of Roshini Kumar, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Sacramento, CA
Roshini Kumar
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95843
Even if these disorders are not present, my therapeutic approach is an excellent fit for those with chronic pain, life transition stress, body image concerns, and social anxiety.
My name is Roshini Kumar, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC) and certified Pilates instructor in the Bay Area, California. I specialize in mind + body wellness through my practice, The Pilates Psychology, a combination of talk therapy and Pilates movement. I offer talk therapy only, Pilates movement only, or a combination of both. All services are virtual throughout California, or in-person in Mill Valley and San Francisco, California.
Even if these disorders are not present, my therapeutic approach is an excellent fit for those with chronic pain, life transition stress, body image concerns, and social anxiety.
My name is Roshini Kumar, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC) and certified Pilates instructor in the Bay Area, California. I specialize in mind + body wellness through my practice, The Pilates Psychology, a combination of talk therapy and Pilates movement. I offer talk therapy only, Pilates movement only, or a combination of both. All services are virtual throughout California, or in-person in Mill Valley and San Francisco, California.
(619) 391-9193 View (619) 391-9193
Photo of Aven Lugh Armstrong-Sutton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Aven Lugh Armstrong-Sutton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, PhD(c), ASW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95857
I have an extensive experience of 15 years in providing psychotherapy and counseling services to individuals of all ages, from childhood to older adulthood. If you or someone you know is struggling with chronic anxiety, persistent depression, past traumas, life transitions, feelings of disconnection, substance abuse, or an unrelenting inner critic, please contact me. I can assist you in increasing your confidence, resolving emotional pain, gaining personal insight, and creating a fulfilling life worth living. Don't let these issues hold you back - take charge of your life today.
I have an extensive experience of 15 years in providing psychotherapy and counseling services to individuals of all ages, from childhood to older adulthood. If you or someone you know is struggling with chronic anxiety, persistent depression, past traumas, life transitions, feelings of disconnection, substance abuse, or an unrelenting inner critic, please contact me. I can assist you in increasing your confidence, resolving emotional pain, gaining personal insight, and creating a fulfilling life worth living. Don't let these issues hold you back - take charge of your life today.
(530) 531-8908 View (530) 531-8908
Photo of Darrin Erb, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Darrin Erb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95828
After almost 30 years in the therapeutic world, I have worked with many different clients to alleviate the pain and suffering life has caused them.
My name is Darrin Erb, MSC/LMFT-S, but I go by Darrin. I am a therapist, a college professor, an executive director, a SPED/Educational Specialist certified in ASD, and a pastor, but my greatest titles are that of husband and father. In the world of therapy, there are therapists like doctors and those who are more like surgeons. I am a therapeutic surgeon, meaning that we will go straight toward the dysfunction and replace it with something that works for you.
After almost 30 years in the therapeutic world, I have worked with many different clients to alleviate the pain and suffering life has caused them.
My name is Darrin Erb, MSC/LMFT-S, but I go by Darrin. I am a therapist, a college professor, an executive director, a SPED/Educational Specialist certified in ASD, and a pastor, but my greatest titles are that of husband and father. In the world of therapy, there are therapists like doctors and those who are more like surgeons. I am a therapeutic surgeon, meaning that we will go straight toward the dysfunction and replace it with something that works for you.
(209) 852-4832 View (209) 852-4832
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.