Photo of Dr. Stephanie Randazzo, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Stephanie Randazzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I have a strong passion for working with individuals who experience anxiety, panic attacks, and persistent fear due to their chronic illness.
I am a clinical psychologist and specialize in treating adults who experience life challenges as a result of stress, anxiety, and chronic medical conditions. Common conditions treated are panic attacks, phobias, chronic pain, IBS, and insomnia. Clients often reach out when they are looking for support in changing their actions to move towards their values in life. In therapy, we will work together to identify your strengths, values, and actions to move towards positive change.
I have a strong passion for working with individuals who experience anxiety, panic attacks, and persistent fear due to their chronic illness.
I am a clinical psychologist and specialize in treating adults who experience life challenges as a result of stress, anxiety, and chronic medical conditions. Common conditions treated are panic attacks, phobias, chronic pain, IBS, and insomnia. Clients often reach out when they are looking for support in changing their actions to move towards their values in life. In therapy, we will work together to identify your strengths, values, and actions to move towards positive change.
(628) 313-5767 View (628) 313-5767
Photo of Pearl B Werfel, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Pearl B Werfel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
I offer a safe and comforting place for you to more deeply connect with yourself, learn tools to mitigate stress and physical and emotional pain and allow yourself to heal.
Even the most capable and intelligent person will sometimes need help. My clients include professionals, supervisors, executives, and healthcare providers who seek to better manage the stressors of their professional and personal lives. I create a safe and comfortable environment where you can learn how to decrease stress and anxiety, sleep better, reduce or eliminate pain, live well with chronic illness, resolve past trauma and stop self-limiting behaviors. My over 25 years of experience and training enables me to tailor therapeutic interventions to your needs.
I offer a safe and comforting place for you to more deeply connect with yourself, learn tools to mitigate stress and physical and emotional pain and allow yourself to heal.
Even the most capable and intelligent person will sometimes need help. My clients include professionals, supervisors, executives, and healthcare providers who seek to better manage the stressors of their professional and personal lives. I create a safe and comfortable environment where you can learn how to decrease stress and anxiety, sleep better, reduce or eliminate pain, live well with chronic illness, resolve past trauma and stop self-limiting behaviors. My over 25 years of experience and training enables me to tailor therapeutic interventions to your needs.
(510) 665-5802 View (510) 665-5802
Photo of Julie B Robbins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Julie B Robbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121
I have had extensive experience in: child abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence, trauma, divorce, adoption, fertility, chronic illness and pain, depression and anxiety, families with special needs, learning differences, school adjustments, career changes, sexual intimacy.
After over 30 years of clinical practice I realize that getting involved in therapy takes great strength, endurance, and commitment. I am always willing to offer clients a safe environment with my own strength and commitment to do the work that needs to be done. My work with children has helped me work more effectively with adults and my work with adults have helped me work more effectively with the children.Please note that during the virus crisis I am conducting sessions both in person(with some requirements) and on a Hippa approved video therapy network.
I have had extensive experience in: child abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence, trauma, divorce, adoption, fertility, chronic illness and pain, depression and anxiety, families with special needs, learning differences, school adjustments, career changes, sexual intimacy.
After over 30 years of clinical practice I realize that getting involved in therapy takes great strength, endurance, and commitment. I am always willing to offer clients a safe environment with my own strength and commitment to do the work that needs to be done. My work with children has helped me work more effectively with adults and my work with adults have helped me work more effectively with the children.Please note that during the virus crisis I am conducting sessions both in person(with some requirements) and on a Hippa approved video therapy network.
(415) 802-0532 View (415) 802-0532
Photo of Natasha Smolkin, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Natasha Smolkin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Dr. Natasha Smolkin is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with patients who struggle with chronic pain, stress and anxiety, addiction, interpersonal challenges, depression, self-esteem issues, and many more of life’s mental wellness obstacles. She utilizes an integrative, strength-based approach, which focuses on cultivating sense-of-efficacy around changes, obstacles, and goals.
Dr. Natasha Smolkin is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with patients who struggle with chronic pain, stress and anxiety, addiction, interpersonal challenges, depression, self-esteem issues, and many more of life’s mental wellness obstacles. She utilizes an integrative, strength-based approach, which focuses on cultivating sense-of-efficacy around changes, obstacles, and goals.
(415) 480-5482 View (415) 480-5482
Photo of Dr. Anna Yam, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Anna Yam
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
My second main area of focus is pelvic pain in women, including vaginismus, vulvodynia, painful sex, endometriosis, IBS, & bladder pain.
I help individuals who are feeling overwhelmed. Do you feel like you should be doing something more, even when you're already doing something? Is your inner voice telling you to do more, be more, or strive harder? Have you felt like you're failing or "broken" or that there aren't people who understand or care about your suffering? In our work together, we will explore ways of developing comfort with the spectrum of emotions. We also work to balance your caregiving responsibilities with your needs, creating space for your most replenished, empowered self.
My second main area of focus is pelvic pain in women, including vaginismus, vulvodynia, painful sex, endometriosis, IBS, & bladder pain.
I help individuals who are feeling overwhelmed. Do you feel like you should be doing something more, even when you're already doing something? Is your inner voice telling you to do more, be more, or strive harder? Have you felt like you're failing or "broken" or that there aren't people who understand or care about your suffering? In our work together, we will explore ways of developing comfort with the spectrum of emotions. We also work to balance your caregiving responsibilities with your needs, creating space for your most replenished, empowered self.
(858) 430-8069 View (858) 430-8069
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 Radhika Reddy, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Radhika Reddy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
, ACT), Brainspotting, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, etc.
Welcome! Thank you for checking out my page, and more importantly, for taking this step to invest in yourself! You likely are struggling significantly with something and looking for guidance. You may be wondering if I could be the therapist by your side on this journey. Here's a little about me to help you make an informed decision: My style of therapy is thoughtful, warm, compassionate, non-judgmental, highly collaborative, and results-driven. You are the expert on you (your child), and are likely coming to me for expertise in specific therapies to help you get to where you are heading. As a team we can get there quicker!
, ACT), Brainspotting, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, etc.
Welcome! Thank you for checking out my page, and more importantly, for taking this step to invest in yourself! You likely are struggling significantly with something and looking for guidance. You may be wondering if I could be the therapist by your side on this journey. Here's a little about me to help you make an informed decision: My style of therapy is thoughtful, warm, compassionate, non-judgmental, highly collaborative, and results-driven. You are the expert on you (your child), and are likely coming to me for expertise in specific therapies to help you get to where you are heading. As a team we can get there quicker!
(650) 727-1805 View (650) 727-1805
Photo of Susannah Ruth Feder, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Susannah Ruth Feder
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating clients with pain and chronic illness management issues.
I am most experienced in working with people with pain, illness, addictions, anxiety and depression. I use interpersonal and cognitive approaches to these issues, and believe that the client is best able to assist in selecting the types of approaches best suited to them.
I specialize in treating clients with pain and chronic illness management issues.
I am most experienced in working with people with pain, illness, addictions, anxiety and depression. I use interpersonal and cognitive approaches to these issues, and believe that the client is best able to assist in selecting the types of approaches best suited to them.
(925) 448-9343 View (925) 448-9343
Photo of Kimia Mansoor, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Kimia Mansoor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Are you feeling disappointed and dissatisfied with your current circumstances, relationships, work, or the world at large? I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, and couples experiencing high levels of stress, interpersonal conflict, difficult family/relationship dynamics, grief, and chronic pain or illness. I often work with people who feel "different" and who may have experienced deep feelings of otherness throughout their lives. This includes children of immigrants, neurodiverse individuals, survivors of complex trauma/abuse, and those who identify with minority status in one or more ways.
Are you feeling disappointed and dissatisfied with your current circumstances, relationships, work, or the world at large? I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, and couples experiencing high levels of stress, interpersonal conflict, difficult family/relationship dynamics, grief, and chronic pain or illness. I often work with people who feel "different" and who may have experienced deep feelings of otherness throughout their lives. This includes children of immigrants, neurodiverse individuals, survivors of complex trauma/abuse, and those who identify with minority status in one or more ways.
(415) 423-0335 View (415) 423-0335
Photo of Molly Garber Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Molly Garber Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131
I combine Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), motivational interviewing, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), and Solution-Focused Therapy to target feelings of dread, abandonment, isolation, anxiety, chronic pain, and the many other symptoms that may come up for you on a daily basis.
“Regardless of how long ago something happened, and regardless of how long symptoms have been there, it doesn’t need to be permanent.” - Getting Past Your Past (Shapiro, 2012) Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, interpersonal issues or other daily symptoms that leave you feeling discontent, there is a solution. By utilizing a client-centered approach, I meet you where you are from session-to-session in order to provide an environment focused on comfort, trust, and understanding. I see healing as a sine wave, with ups-and-downs but always on an upward trajectory. Together we will walk through your healing.
I combine Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), motivational interviewing, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), and Solution-Focused Therapy to target feelings of dread, abandonment, isolation, anxiety, chronic pain, and the many other symptoms that may come up for you on a daily basis.
“Regardless of how long ago something happened, and regardless of how long symptoms have been there, it doesn’t need to be permanent.” - Getting Past Your Past (Shapiro, 2012) Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, interpersonal issues or other daily symptoms that leave you feeling discontent, there is a solution. By utilizing a client-centered approach, I meet you where you are from session-to-session in order to provide an environment focused on comfort, trust, and understanding. I see healing as a sine wave, with ups-and-downs but always on an upward trajectory. Together we will walk through your healing.
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Photo of Kathy Jarosz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kathy Jarosz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
A passion is the work that I do with chronic pain (TMS) which can help even longtime sufferers reduce/eliminate pain.
Are you and your partner wanting help communicating? Feeling emotionally distant? Are you frustrated by the problems with your relationship? Has there been an affair or addiction? I am a Gottman Level 3 trained couples therapist and I can help! I can offer you some leading-edge tools and resources to kick-start change. If you both want the marriage to be saved, that's exactly what we will work toward. But, if one of you is uncertain if you want to save the marriage we can discuss "Discernment Counseling". You learn what it would take to turn it around before you decide to start couples therapy. Don't postpone getting help!
A passion is the work that I do with chronic pain (TMS) which can help even longtime sufferers reduce/eliminate pain.
Are you and your partner wanting help communicating? Feeling emotionally distant? Are you frustrated by the problems with your relationship? Has there been an affair or addiction? I am a Gottman Level 3 trained couples therapist and I can help! I can offer you some leading-edge tools and resources to kick-start change. If you both want the marriage to be saved, that's exactly what we will work toward. But, if one of you is uncertain if you want to save the marriage we can discuss "Discernment Counseling". You learn what it would take to turn it around before you decide to start couples therapy. Don't postpone getting help!
(650) 741-4387 View (650) 741-4387
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 Sarah Hammill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sarah Hammill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
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 Danielle R Miyasato (Aka Casden), Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Danielle R Miyasato (Aka Casden)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Are you or a loved one having difficulty coping with chronic illness (cancer, HIV, heart disease, diabetes, COPD, pain or other illness) or managing stress in your life? Health issues can affect every aspect of your life, including relationships, work, finances, mood, and sense of self. I have over a decade of experience helping individuals, couples and families improve the quality of life and reduce suffering. As a Clinical Health Psychologist, I take an integrative approach to psychotherapy and will work with you to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Are you or a loved one having difficulty coping with chronic illness (cancer, HIV, heart disease, diabetes, COPD, pain or other illness) or managing stress in your life? Health issues can affect every aspect of your life, including relationships, work, finances, mood, and sense of self. I have over a decade of experience helping individuals, couples and families improve the quality of life and reduce suffering. As a Clinical Health Psychologist, I take an integrative approach to psychotherapy and will work with you to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs and goals.
(415) 413-0915 View (415) 413-0915
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 Christine Archer | Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Christine Archer | Pain Reprocessing Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
I help high-achieving, do-it-all women overcome chronic pain, anxiety and burnout to live a more joyful and restful life. Often, our bodies give us cues that it’s time to slow down while our minds push us to keep going. We have learned that expectations, responsibilities and productivity take priority over our own care and needs. Maybe you have tried to power through your body’s cues over and over again only to feel stuck, exhausted, and unsure of how to find relief. Our work together will empower you to come back to yourself, to tend to your body and nervous system and to feel more present, connected and at ease.
I help high-achieving, do-it-all women overcome chronic pain, anxiety and burnout to live a more joyful and restful life. Often, our bodies give us cues that it’s time to slow down while our minds push us to keep going. We have learned that expectations, responsibilities and productivity take priority over our own care and needs. Maybe you have tried to power through your body’s cues over and over again only to feel stuck, exhausted, and unsure of how to find relief. Our work together will empower you to come back to yourself, to tend to your body and nervous system and to feel more present, connected and at ease.
(530) 454-8523 View (530) 454-8523
Photo of Brandon Gescheidle, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Brandon Gescheidle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
I identify as a gay, cisgender man and enjoy working with the chronic pain and queer communities.
I do this work because I genuinely love it. I am very honest and direct with clients and encourage openness from each of us. Therapy is an opportunity to slow down, get reacquainted with ourselves, and engage in vulnerability and playfulness that is too often not accessed. I offer a supportive, completely non-judgmental space where everything and anything is on the table (trust me, as therapists, we’ve heard it all). Trust and comfortability take time, and I respect clients’ pace and readiness to travel in difficult directions. I also promise to (compassionately) hold you accountable to promote growth and healing.
I identify as a gay, cisgender man and enjoy working with the chronic pain and queer communities.
I do this work because I genuinely love it. I am very honest and direct with clients and encourage openness from each of us. Therapy is an opportunity to slow down, get reacquainted with ourselves, and engage in vulnerability and playfulness that is too often not accessed. I offer a supportive, completely non-judgmental space where everything and anything is on the table (trust me, as therapists, we’ve heard it all). Trust and comfortability take time, and I respect clients’ pace and readiness to travel in difficult directions. I also promise to (compassionately) hold you accountable to promote growth and healing.
(424) 842-8532 View (424) 842-8532
Photo of Envision Wellness Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Envision Wellness Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
We are passionate about helping women who are faced with various challenges related to infertility, postpartum, women's health, and chronic illness. Our team of therapists uses their specialized training and lived experience to customize ways to best support you during this time.
We are passionate about helping women who are faced with various challenges related to infertility, postpartum, women's health, and chronic illness. Our team of therapists uses their specialized training and lived experience to customize ways to best support you during this time.
(805) 800-8278 View (805) 800-8278
Photo of Rebecca Stein Mind Body Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Rebecca Stein Mind Body Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Do you consistently experience BURNOUT and/or chronic PAIN? Do you feel like there is a constant pressure to do things and “do them right?” Do you struggle to FOCUS and wonder if you have ADHD? I provide thorough diagnostic evaluations, executive function coaching, and customized individual and COUPLES therapy. You will learn coping strategies, reconnect in AWE with yourself, your relationships, and life. I have had the privilege of helping clients at UCLA Medicine, The Pain Psychology Center, and Edward Hallowell ADHD Center. Certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), IFS, ISTDP, CBT, DBT
Do you consistently experience BURNOUT and/or chronic PAIN? Do you feel like there is a constant pressure to do things and “do them right?” Do you struggle to FOCUS and wonder if you have ADHD? I provide thorough diagnostic evaluations, executive function coaching, and customized individual and COUPLES therapy. You will learn coping strategies, reconnect in AWE with yourself, your relationships, and life. I have had the privilege of helping clients at UCLA Medicine, The Pain Psychology Center, and Edward Hallowell ADHD Center. Certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), IFS, ISTDP, CBT, DBT
(470) 450-3277 View (470) 450-3277

See more therapy options for San Francisco

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.