Photo of Nina Eisenberg @ The Connective, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Nina Eisenberg @ The Connective
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
I work with adolescents and adults who have identified something in their lives that is causing distress or interfering with their goals. These may be uncomfortable thoughts or feelings, or stressful life circumstances both past or present. Or, they may have a more general discomfort, a sense that something just isn’t “right” and feeling “stuck.” Major life transitions, relationship changes, and illness may be catalysts for psychological distress. Regardless, there is usually a desire to understand themselves better, make meaning of their experiences, and to change grow.
I work with adolescents and adults who have identified something in their lives that is causing distress or interfering with their goals. These may be uncomfortable thoughts or feelings, or stressful life circumstances both past or present. Or, they may have a more general discomfort, a sense that something just isn’t “right” and feeling “stuck.” Major life transitions, relationship changes, and illness may be catalysts for psychological distress. Regardless, there is usually a desire to understand themselves better, make meaning of their experiences, and to change grow.
(628) 200-4029 View (628) 200-4029
Photo of Bayla Travis, Psy.D. - Pain Management Specialist, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Bayla Travis, Psy.D. - Pain Management Specialist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
Using interventions like mindfulness, relaxation, behavior modification, thought substitution and education about the science of pain, I can help you decrease your symptoms and better care for yourself when symptoms do arise.
I work with individuals who have achieved success in many areas of their lives, yet struggle with chronic health issues that cause great levels of stress. For over a decade, I have helped people who have health challenges like headaches, back and neck pain, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s Disease. Often, these uncomfortable physical sensations lead to anxiety. And then the anxiety leads to an increase in physical symptoms. Which then leads to even greater levels of anxiety. I can help you interrupt this cycle, leading to you enjoying increased quality of life both personally and professionally.
Using interventions like mindfulness, relaxation, behavior modification, thought substitution and education about the science of pain, I can help you decrease your symptoms and better care for yourself when symptoms do arise.
I work with individuals who have achieved success in many areas of their lives, yet struggle with chronic health issues that cause great levels of stress. For over a decade, I have helped people who have health challenges like headaches, back and neck pain, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s Disease. Often, these uncomfortable physical sensations lead to anxiety. And then the anxiety leads to an increase in physical symptoms. Which then leads to even greater levels of anxiety. I can help you interrupt this cycle, leading to you enjoying increased quality of life both personally and professionally.
(510) 681-0018 View (510) 681-0018
Photo of Lucia C Cargill in San Francisco, CA
Lucia C Cargill
PhD, MSN, MA, PHN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
l am a cross-cultural specialist with a PhD in Medical Anthropology & a Family Nurse Practitioner with 15 years in psychiatric, pain & primary care practice.
Greetings! Welcome to our multidisciplinary, holistic, integrative mental health coaching practice. We are open to new ideas from Integrative/Functional Medicine, supportive care for your psychiatric needs, drug free care, and nutritional support. We believe whole body health is the best way to good brain health. Good brain health impacts mental health. We invite you to a different approach to brain health and mental health through coaching and support for referrals to the best functional medicine providers sourcing balance, resolution of inflammation & for all your whole body-mind-spirit healing. We invite you to join us for care.
l am a cross-cultural specialist with a PhD in Medical Anthropology & a Family Nurse Practitioner with 15 years in psychiatric, pain & primary care practice.
Greetings! Welcome to our multidisciplinary, holistic, integrative mental health coaching practice. We are open to new ideas from Integrative/Functional Medicine, supportive care for your psychiatric needs, drug free care, and nutritional support. We believe whole body health is the best way to good brain health. Good brain health impacts mental health. We invite you to a different approach to brain health and mental health through coaching and support for referrals to the best functional medicine providers sourcing balance, resolution of inflammation & for all your whole body-mind-spirit healing. We invite you to join us for care.
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Photo of Andrew Damian, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Andrew Damian
Psychologist, PsyD, BCN
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105
I am a licensed psychologist with expertise in neurofeedback, neuropsychology, chronic pain treatment, individual psychotherapy, meditation, and qEEG brain mapping. I am board certified in neurofeedback and I use cutting-edge techniques to determine the best treatment and to improve outcomes.
I am a licensed psychologist with expertise in neurofeedback, neuropsychology, chronic pain treatment, individual psychotherapy, meditation, and qEEG brain mapping. I am board certified in neurofeedback and I use cutting-edge techniques to determine the best treatment and to improve outcomes.
(628) 265-6274 View (628) 265-6274
Photo of Leslie R Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Leslie R Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
(415) 366-0587 View (415) 366-0587
Photo of Sandrah Susan Henry, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sandrah Susan Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I have extensive experience working chronic and life-threatening illness and will do home based psychotherapy if possible.
I have over 40 years of experience helping people face challenges in their lives including loss, adoption related issues, addiction, relationships/couples, life threatening illness, chronic pain, anxiety, mood and bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, divorce, and other life transitions. I am a warm and caring therapist who is also able to be direct when needed. From the moment you enter my office I do all I can to provide a safe and comfortable environment for us to work collaboratively with whatever issues you are facing in your life today. You will always be treated with respect and compassion throughout our work together.
I have extensive experience working chronic and life-threatening illness and will do home based psychotherapy if possible.
I have over 40 years of experience helping people face challenges in their lives including loss, adoption related issues, addiction, relationships/couples, life threatening illness, chronic pain, anxiety, mood and bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, divorce, and other life transitions. I am a warm and caring therapist who is also able to be direct when needed. From the moment you enter my office I do all I can to provide a safe and comfortable environment for us to work collaboratively with whatever issues you are facing in your life today. You will always be treated with respect and compassion throughout our work together.
(415) 687-0429 View (415) 687-0429
Photo of Judith Anna Nitchie, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Judith Anna Nitchie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CMT, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
Interactive and educational workshops address stress and emotions relative to chronic illness and loss for self-help groups and professional organizations; education and training for counselors and therapists who work with clients with chronic illness.
Life with a chronic illness presents unique challenges. Not only do you have your new (and changing) physical reality, but anxiety, depression and overwhelm can show up unannounced. I've been there! The great news is that, with help, we can transform our state of mind and start loving life again. WE can get YOU back on the road to loving your life--let's get to it!
Interactive and educational workshops address stress and emotions relative to chronic illness and loss for self-help groups and professional organizations; education and training for counselors and therapists who work with clients with chronic illness.
Life with a chronic illness presents unique challenges. Not only do you have your new (and changing) physical reality, but anxiety, depression and overwhelm can show up unannounced. I've been there! The great news is that, with help, we can transform our state of mind and start loving life again. WE can get YOU back on the road to loving your life--let's get to it!
(415) 799-9266 View (415) 799-9266
Photo of Denise Stilwell, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Denise Stilwell
Psychologist, RN, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Dr. Denise Stilwell is a licensed clinical psychologist with seven years of experience providing psychotherapy in a variety of clinical settings. She worked as a nurse for sixteen years before she became a psychotherapist and brings that rich experience into her practice. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, identity issues, interpersonal issues, grief, managing chronic illness, and somatic symptom disorder. Dr. Stilwell collaborates with her clients to ensure they feel seen and heard in their sessions while utilizing evidence-based therapy approaches that are culturally sensitive and individually focused.
Dr. Denise Stilwell is a licensed clinical psychologist with seven years of experience providing psychotherapy in a variety of clinical settings. She worked as a nurse for sixteen years before she became a psychotherapist and brings that rich experience into her practice. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, identity issues, interpersonal issues, grief, managing chronic illness, and somatic symptom disorder. Dr. Stilwell collaborates with her clients to ensure they feel seen and heard in their sessions while utilizing evidence-based therapy approaches that are culturally sensitive and individually focused.
(415) 306-8574 View (415) 306-8574
Photo of Katrina Sesline, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Katrina Sesline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adults living with a disabling health condition, caregivers who are supporting someone with a health condition, and those grieving the loss of a loved one. Living with a serious illness or grief can bring out difficult feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, depression and fear. I use an integrative approach with elements of narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness. Together, let's create a safe space to help you cope while attending to your heart, mind, and body.
I specialize in treating adults living with a disabling health condition, caregivers who are supporting someone with a health condition, and those grieving the loss of a loved one. Living with a serious illness or grief can bring out difficult feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, depression and fear. I use an integrative approach with elements of narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness. Together, let's create a safe space to help you cope while attending to your heart, mind, and body.
(510) 616-9406 View (510) 616-9406
Photo of Sean Fitzgerald, Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Sean Fitzgerald
Counselor, DMFT, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Do you feel unbalanced and overwhelmed? Feeling trapped by your own life? Sometimes people and life expect more and more out of us, leaving nothing for us but a full schedule and an empty life. You may also fear expressing our emotions because you're not sure what will happen if you do. Whether it’s problems with work, home life, a relationship, chronic illness or a specific event like a major transition, accident, or sudden death, I can help by providing a safe place for you to open up and feel heard.
Do you feel unbalanced and overwhelmed? Feeling trapped by your own life? Sometimes people and life expect more and more out of us, leaving nothing for us but a full schedule and an empty life. You may also fear expressing our emotions because you're not sure what will happen if you do. Whether it’s problems with work, home life, a relationship, chronic illness or a specific event like a major transition, accident, or sudden death, I can help by providing a safe place for you to open up and feel heard.
(909) 532-6100 View (909) 532-6100
Photo of Sadie Phillips, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Sadie Phillips
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I work with individuals, couples, families, caregivers and anyone who is affected by medical illness and cancer at every stage of the disease, including cancer survivors and bereaved individuals.
I am a licensed clinical health psychologist with extensive training in psycho-oncology and a longstanding clinical focus on providing psychological services in medical settings. It is my goal to work with patients and their families to help during this often difficult adjustment to the medical world and treatment. My interests are wide and each patient is different. I want to meet you exactly where you are at.
I work with individuals, couples, families, caregivers and anyone who is affected by medical illness and cancer at every stage of the disease, including cancer survivors and bereaved individuals.
I am a licensed clinical health psychologist with extensive training in psycho-oncology and a longstanding clinical focus on providing psychological services in medical settings. It is my goal to work with patients and their families to help during this often difficult adjustment to the medical world and treatment. My interests are wide and each patient is different. I want to meet you exactly where you are at.
(628) 800-0027 View (628) 800-0027
Photo of Haley Hewitt, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Haley Hewitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, E-RYT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Haley Hewitt and I specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy. I believe that because we are complex and unique individuals, an approach that integrates both mind and body is essential for the healing, growth, and resiliency that is the goal of therapeutic counseling. Treatment specializations include: depression and anxiety, couples counseling, children and adolescents, psychedelic-assisted therapies, stress and/or pain management, life transitions, self-esteem, mental illness/mental health issues, gender and/or sexual identity, and LGBTQIA. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, DBT/CBT & Somatics.
My name is Haley Hewitt and I specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy. I believe that because we are complex and unique individuals, an approach that integrates both mind and body is essential for the healing, growth, and resiliency that is the goal of therapeutic counseling. Treatment specializations include: depression and anxiety, couples counseling, children and adolescents, psychedelic-assisted therapies, stress and/or pain management, life transitions, self-esteem, mental illness/mental health issues, gender and/or sexual identity, and LGBTQIA. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, DBT/CBT & Somatics.
(925) 275-5742 View (925) 275-5742
Photo of Irene Schell Capuchino, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Irene Schell Capuchino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
My approach to counseling begins with careful listening to understand your unique situation and personal goals. I will listen without judging you or rushing to a quick fix that might not be applicable for your specific situation. Many of my clients enter counseling feeling alone or overwhelmed by feelings of sadness, anxiety, anger, or stress. They may feel stuck in painful relationships that aren't working, or stuck with intense feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, dread, or inner pain. My treatment approach is gentle, educational, and experiential.
My approach to counseling begins with careful listening to understand your unique situation and personal goals. I will listen without judging you or rushing to a quick fix that might not be applicable for your specific situation. Many of my clients enter counseling feeling alone or overwhelmed by feelings of sadness, anxiety, anger, or stress. They may feel stuck in painful relationships that aren't working, or stuck with intense feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, dread, or inner pain. My treatment approach is gentle, educational, and experiential.
(510) 343-7798 View (510) 343-7798
Photo of Shannon Knorr, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Francisco, CA
Shannon Knorr
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
I enjoy in working with; self esteem & worth, trauma healing & recovery, body image & body positivity, disordered eating & relationship to body, belonging as our birthright, transforming deep shame into liberation, body & sex shame, relationships and boundaries, anxiety, stress & hyper-vigilance, nervous system imbalances, life transitions & identity, honoring grief, loss & death, life threatening illness, cancer, auto-immune disease, rites of passage, aging, adolescence, menopause, women's empowerment, highly sensitive people & empaths, people pleasers, intergenerational trauma & ancestral healing, mothering & the mother wound.
I enjoy in working with; self esteem & worth, trauma healing & recovery, body image & body positivity, disordered eating & relationship to body, belonging as our birthright, transforming deep shame into liberation, body & sex shame, relationships and boundaries, anxiety, stress & hyper-vigilance, nervous system imbalances, life transitions & identity, honoring grief, loss & death, life threatening illness, cancer, auto-immune disease, rites of passage, aging, adolescence, menopause, women's empowerment, highly sensitive people & empaths, people pleasers, intergenerational trauma & ancestral healing, mothering & the mother wound.
(510) 983-4457 View (510) 983-4457
Photo of Caitlin West, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Caitlin West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94158  (Online Only)
Is a chronic or serious illness impacting your life? Are you struggling with anxiety, adjustment to illness, uncertainty, role changes, loss, or depression? Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or isolated in your experience? I can help you. I help clients navigate the impact that illness has on all areas of their lives. Please note that I am part of the Compassionate Integrative Counseling Group. Our group consists of three seasoned therapists who specialize in working with patients, caregivers, and loved ones around the complexities of serious illness.
Is a chronic or serious illness impacting your life? Are you struggling with anxiety, adjustment to illness, uncertainty, role changes, loss, or depression? Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or isolated in your experience? I can help you. I help clients navigate the impact that illness has on all areas of their lives. Please note that I am part of the Compassionate Integrative Counseling Group. Our group consists of three seasoned therapists who specialize in working with patients, caregivers, and loved ones around the complexities of serious illness.
(707) 634-8419 View (707) 634-8419
Photo of Anna Alper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Anna Alper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94158  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working in medical social work with patients who are battling cancer and helping with adjustment to illness, supporting caregivers, providing pre-bereavement & grief support.
I once heard this metaphor about the lotus flower: "The lotus flower grows deep in muddy waters, far away from the sun. In time the Lotus reaches the light and transforms into a beautiful flower." You may be faced with many challenges right now: stress, anxiety, a terminal diagnosis, or perhaps you are experiencing loss of a loved one. Like the lotus flower, it may seem that everything around you is dark and the light seems very distant. It is my passion to help get you through that muddy water and help you bloom into the beautiful lotus that I know you are.
I have extensive experience working in medical social work with patients who are battling cancer and helping with adjustment to illness, supporting caregivers, providing pre-bereavement & grief support.
I once heard this metaphor about the lotus flower: "The lotus flower grows deep in muddy waters, far away from the sun. In time the Lotus reaches the light and transforms into a beautiful flower." You may be faced with many challenges right now: stress, anxiety, a terminal diagnosis, or perhaps you are experiencing loss of a loved one. Like the lotus flower, it may seem that everything around you is dark and the light seems very distant. It is my passion to help get you through that muddy water and help you bloom into the beautiful lotus that I know you are.
(650) 590-8869 View (650) 590-8869
Photo of Dr. Holiday Healing Psychology, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Holiday Healing Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101
While I work with a broad range of mental health conditions, my particular areas of specialty include anxiety, phobias, OCD, PTSD, depression, insomnia, chronic pain, and stress for high performers.
Have you and your partner been frustrated by having the same argument over and over again? Are you struggling to cope with anxiety, life transitions, or stress in your daily life? Do you get triggered by things in your environment that remind you of a stressful past event? If this sounds like you, then you have come to the right place. My approach to therapy is warm, compassionate, and nonjudgemental. I strive to help clients utilize their strengths and improve their coping using evidence-based practices.
While I work with a broad range of mental health conditions, my particular areas of specialty include anxiety, phobias, OCD, PTSD, depression, insomnia, chronic pain, and stress for high performers.
Have you and your partner been frustrated by having the same argument over and over again? Are you struggling to cope with anxiety, life transitions, or stress in your daily life? Do you get triggered by things in your environment that remind you of a stressful past event? If this sounds like you, then you have come to the right place. My approach to therapy is warm, compassionate, and nonjudgemental. I strive to help clients utilize their strengths and improve their coping using evidence-based practices.
(310) 919-1598 View (310) 919-1598
Photo of Jessica Claire Lief, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jessica Claire Lief
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
My name is Jessica Lief. I have been practicing social work and working as a psychotherapist since 2014. I support individuals who are recovering from eating disorders, body image issues, substance use issues, trauma, self harm, prenatal and postpartum issues, miscarriage and fertility issues. I work with adults of all ages. My style has been described as nurturing, empathic, and empowering. I am direct and authentic; I will never blame you for your suffering. My approach is primarily psychodynamic but combines aspects of self-psychology, mindful self-compassion, dialectical behavior therapy, Seeking Safety, and mindfulness.
My name is Jessica Lief. I have been practicing social work and working as a psychotherapist since 2014. I support individuals who are recovering from eating disorders, body image issues, substance use issues, trauma, self harm, prenatal and postpartum issues, miscarriage and fertility issues. I work with adults of all ages. My style has been described as nurturing, empathic, and empowering. I am direct and authentic; I will never blame you for your suffering. My approach is primarily psychodynamic but combines aspects of self-psychology, mindful self-compassion, dialectical behavior therapy, Seeking Safety, and mindfulness.
(628) 265-8809 View (628) 265-8809
Photo of Octave - Financial District SF Clinic, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Octave - Financial District SF Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
(415) 634-1043 View (415) 634-1043
Photo of Ask Alison Leigh, PHD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ask Alison Leigh, PHD, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
The past 22 years I've seen an eclectic group of clientele: men, women & couples of any gender/orientation who want to improve their sexual lifestyle. I've helped men overcome ED through increasing their self confidence and women who want to feel more sexually in charge. I've seen over 25,000 couples throughout every stage of their relationship whether single, dating, married, or exploring and experimenting couples to ones who are curious how to stay together and keep the chemistry strong. My clients include stay at home moms, stressed out executives, artists, entrepreneurs & communities: LGBTQ, BDSM, & Transgender Families.
The past 22 years I've seen an eclectic group of clientele: men, women & couples of any gender/orientation who want to improve their sexual lifestyle. I've helped men overcome ED through increasing their self confidence and women who want to feel more sexually in charge. I've seen over 25,000 couples throughout every stage of their relationship whether single, dating, married, or exploring and experimenting couples to ones who are curious how to stay together and keep the chemistry strong. My clients include stay at home moms, stressed out executives, artists, entrepreneurs & communities: LGBTQ, BDSM, & Transgender Families.
(628) 226-1830 View (628) 226-1830

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Chronic Pain Therapists

How does chronic pain therapy work?

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

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

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

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

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

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

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