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 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 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 Shannon Hagan, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Shannon Hagan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I have worked extensively with couples and individuals, helping improve relationships, enhance spiritual practice, find greater joy and success, and improve pain management.
While life does have it's challenges, I am here to remind you that there is a path to a gentler, brighter, more playful future, both with our own selves and with our partners and loved one. Therapy can be a wonderful way to rediscover joy, aliveness and connectedness.
I have worked extensively with couples and individuals, helping improve relationships, enhance spiritual practice, find greater joy and success, and improve pain management.
While life does have it's challenges, I am here to remind you that there is a path to a gentler, brighter, more playful future, both with our own selves and with our partners and loved one. Therapy can be a wonderful way to rediscover joy, aliveness and connectedness.
(510) 949-5236 View (510) 949-5236
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 Erin Liana Johnson, Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Erin Liana Johnson
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94124
If you have been living with chronic pain or illness your relationship to your physicality may currently feel jarred, broken, or thrown off course. You may be grieving the life you thought you would have, or feeling weighed down by addressing day to day challenges. If you are seeking to repair your relationship between yourself and your body, gain new coping skills, and challenge current paradigms, I would be a great fit for you!
If you have been living with chronic pain or illness your relationship to your physicality may currently feel jarred, broken, or thrown off course. You may be grieving the life you thought you would have, or feeling weighed down by addressing day to day challenges. If you are seeking to repair your relationship between yourself and your body, gain new coping skills, and challenge current paradigms, I would be a great fit for you!
(831) 215-4138 View (831) 215-4138
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
Photo of Cecilie Herring, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Cecilie Herring
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I specialize in working with pre and postnatal moms, supporting parents as they navigate and adjust to parenthood, strengthening the parent-child connection, grief surrounding the loss of a loved one, coping with a chronic illness and/or pain, and working with the challenges of anxiety and depression.
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist offering psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, and children. My training focuses on helping my clients improve their relationships with themselves and others, navigate life transitions, and heal from traumatic experiences. My overall approach seeks to provide a warm, trusting, nonjudgemental relationship in which you are deeply listened to and can safely and freely discuss your challenges, concerns, and vulnerabilities.
I specialize in working with pre and postnatal moms, supporting parents as they navigate and adjust to parenthood, strengthening the parent-child connection, grief surrounding the loss of a loved one, coping with a chronic illness and/or pain, and working with the challenges of anxiety and depression.
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist offering psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, and children. My training focuses on helping my clients improve their relationships with themselves and others, navigate life transitions, and heal from traumatic experiences. My overall approach seeks to provide a warm, trusting, nonjudgemental relationship in which you are deeply listened to and can safely and freely discuss your challenges, concerns, and vulnerabilities.
(415) 517-9319 View (415) 517-9319
Photo of Alina Liu, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Alina Liu
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94122
Anxiety and emotional pain are part of being human, but you don't have to suffer alone and I am here to help.
Are you burned out from "imposter syndrome" at work, stuck in an unfulfilling relationship, or feeling perpetually disconnected and isolated? Living inauthentically can feel exhausting. I work with individuals and couples to provide a range of therapy services from short-term evidence-based treatment for anxiety/depression to long-term relational work. Mental health is about having choices; in our first session, I am excited to get to know you and walk you through the process of therapy. My goal is to help you release painful emotions, reflect on patterns of thoughts and behaviors, and reconnect with a deeper sense of inner freedom.
Anxiety and emotional pain are part of being human, but you don't have to suffer alone and I am here to help.
Are you burned out from "imposter syndrome" at work, stuck in an unfulfilling relationship, or feeling perpetually disconnected and isolated? Living inauthentically can feel exhausting. I work with individuals and couples to provide a range of therapy services from short-term evidence-based treatment for anxiety/depression to long-term relational work. Mental health is about having choices; in our first session, I am excited to get to know you and walk you through the process of therapy. My goal is to help you release painful emotions, reflect on patterns of thoughts and behaviors, and reconnect with a deeper sense of inner freedom.
(415) 639-5225 View (415) 639-5225
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 Stéphanie Gay Moss, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Stéphanie Gay Moss
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Sometimes, engaging with emotional pain involves making contact with wordless places and unthought truths.
My work with you begins with the recognition that it takes courage to seek help. You may have questions about why you feel the way you feel and why you do the things you do. I believe you are not defined by your symptoms. Whether you struggle with love, work, or relationships, whether you are in crisis or you have received a mental health diagnosis, I believe that your true desires, conflicts, and needs are meaningful and worth actively getting to know. From our first session together, I meet you where you are.
Sometimes, engaging with emotional pain involves making contact with wordless places and unthought truths.
My work with you begins with the recognition that it takes courage to seek help. You may have questions about why you feel the way you feel and why you do the things you do. I believe you are not defined by your symptoms. Whether you struggle with love, work, or relationships, whether you are in crisis or you have received a mental health diagnosis, I believe that your true desires, conflicts, and needs are meaningful and worth actively getting to know. From our first session together, I meet you where you are.
(415) 527-5963 View (415) 527-5963
Photo of Lisa A Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Lisa A Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Are you are you struggling with anxiety, stress, weight control/obesity, emotional eating, unhealthy/excessive behaviors or a chronic illness/family member's chronic illness? You may have tried to change many times in the past without the results you want. If you are ready to break the cycle, therapy can help you make changes...for life. My approach is to welcome your whole self in therapy, including your mind, body and spirit. We'll develop specific strategies to help you get better faster
Are you are you struggling with anxiety, stress, weight control/obesity, emotional eating, unhealthy/excessive behaviors or a chronic illness/family member's chronic illness? You may have tried to change many times in the past without the results you want. If you are ready to break the cycle, therapy can help you make changes...for life. My approach is to welcome your whole self in therapy, including your mind, body and spirit. We'll develop specific strategies to help you get better faster
(415) 763-6231 View (415) 763-6231
Photo of Beyond Coping, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Beyond Coping
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Are you living with or have you recently been diagnosed with a major medical condition? Caring for someone who is ill or dying? Are you having difficulties coping with a chronic or newly diagnosed illness? Are your children struggling with the loss of a loved one? Are you dealing with the impact of illness on body image? Are you considering end of life options or dealing with issues such as loss and grief? We help patients, their loved ones, and caregivers coping with cancer, life-altering illness, chronic pain, neurological conditions, infertility, complex pregnancy, and end of life issues.
Are you living with or have you recently been diagnosed with a major medical condition? Caring for someone who is ill or dying? Are you having difficulties coping with a chronic or newly diagnosed illness? Are your children struggling with the loss of a loved one? Are you dealing with the impact of illness on body image? Are you considering end of life options or dealing with issues such as loss and grief? We help patients, their loved ones, and caregivers coping with cancer, life-altering illness, chronic pain, neurological conditions, infertility, complex pregnancy, and end of life issues.
(844) 382-8410 x701 View (844) 382-8410 x701
Photo of Dr. Christina M. Charlotin, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Christina M. Charlotin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94108
I specialize in working with adults who experience depression, anxiety disorders (agoraphobia, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias), OCD, insomnia, chronic pain, relationship challenges, heartbreak, phase-of-life stressors, procrastination behaviors & LGBTQ/Race related challenges.
In our work together, my intention is to help you break away from the maladaptive thought patterns, emotions, actions, and external circumstances that keep you stuck in an unwanted experience. My goal is to help you create progress towards the life you do want for yourself. I’ll want to understand the changes you’d like to see in yourself. With this in mind, I’ll want to identify the behaviors you’d like to demonstrate, the lasting emotions you’d like to feel, and the outcomes you’d like to see present themselves in your life. With that information, we'll set the overall goals for therapy. Now providing Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
I specialize in working with adults who experience depression, anxiety disorders (agoraphobia, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias), OCD, insomnia, chronic pain, relationship challenges, heartbreak, phase-of-life stressors, procrastination behaviors & LGBTQ/Race related challenges.
In our work together, my intention is to help you break away from the maladaptive thought patterns, emotions, actions, and external circumstances that keep you stuck in an unwanted experience. My goal is to help you create progress towards the life you do want for yourself. I’ll want to understand the changes you’d like to see in yourself. With this in mind, I’ll want to identify the behaviors you’d like to demonstrate, the lasting emotions you’d like to feel, and the outcomes you’d like to see present themselves in your life. With that information, we'll set the overall goals for therapy. Now providing Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
(628) 201-6946 View (628) 201-6946
Photo of Lisa Twilling, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Lisa Twilling
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Having a medical illness can be challenging.
I am a Psychologist with over 25yrs. experience working with individuals in psychotherapy. I help people who seek relief from dealing with life's challenges (e.g., anxiety, depression, stress, stress management, relationship difficulties, etc.) and life transitions. I also specialize in Medical Psychology and work with people who are coping with health issues (e.g., adjusting to a medical diagnosis, managing an illness or chronic pain, coping with a loved one who suffers with an illness). Please contact me for a free phone consultation to discuss your specific situation and goals.
Having a medical illness can be challenging.
I am a Psychologist with over 25yrs. experience working with individuals in psychotherapy. I help people who seek relief from dealing with life's challenges (e.g., anxiety, depression, stress, stress management, relationship difficulties, etc.) and life transitions. I also specialize in Medical Psychology and work with people who are coping with health issues (e.g., adjusting to a medical diagnosis, managing an illness or chronic pain, coping with a loved one who suffers with an illness). Please contact me for a free phone consultation to discuss your specific situation and goals.
(415) 659-9212 View (415) 659-9212
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 Randi Jackson, Registered Psychological Associate in San Francisco, CA
Randi Jackson
Registered Psychological Associate
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I'm able to support a variety of concerns, including self-doubt, relationship issues, chronic illness, disordered eating, and trauma.
When you're constantly under pressure, it's easy to feel like you're stuck in survival mode. Therapy can't change the stressors you're facing today, but it can help you respond to them more effectively. As a therapist, I help women in complex, high-stress environments build tools to become more grounded and empowered in their lives. Many of my clients are burned out professionals navigating competing demands, or feeling stuck in ineffective patterns. I have specialized training in sport and performance psychology, and help my clients build skills and systems that support both well-being and high performance.
I'm able to support a variety of concerns, including self-doubt, relationship issues, chronic illness, disordered eating, and trauma.
When you're constantly under pressure, it's easy to feel like you're stuck in survival mode. Therapy can't change the stressors you're facing today, but it can help you respond to them more effectively. As a therapist, I help women in complex, high-stress environments build tools to become more grounded and empowered in their lives. Many of my clients are burned out professionals navigating competing demands, or feeling stuck in ineffective patterns. I have specialized training in sport and performance psychology, and help my clients build skills and systems that support both well-being and high performance.
(415) 741-5533 View (415) 741-5533
Photo of Jennifer Baity, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jennifer Baity
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
You deserve better than to stay stuck. (Though some of you have nagging thoughts that you may not). You deserve to be in less pain. Perhaps you’re coping with a loss of some kind like a divorce or a death and that’s been difficult? Often it is easier to reduce distress and achieve your goals with the help of a therapist who is objective, can hear your WHOLE story and hold it in confidence, and who can offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy. You deserve to feel “seen” and feel valued and you may need a place to nurture yourself and develop better coping skills for what life has thrown your way lately. Let me help.
You deserve better than to stay stuck. (Though some of you have nagging thoughts that you may not). You deserve to be in less pain. Perhaps you’re coping with a loss of some kind like a divorce or a death and that’s been difficult? Often it is easier to reduce distress and achieve your goals with the help of a therapist who is objective, can hear your WHOLE story and hold it in confidence, and who can offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy. You deserve to feel “seen” and feel valued and you may need a place to nurture yourself and develop better coping skills for what life has thrown your way lately. Let me help.
(415) 649-9794 View (415) 649-9794
Photo of Kaitlin Doran, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Kaitlin Doran
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Dr. Kaitlin Doran is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in chronic pain management, depression and anxiety, LGBTQIA issues, women’s health issues, and life transitions. Her approach is warm and collaborative, informed by interpersonal and emotion-focused theories. She fosters a safe and nurturing environment from which to gain greater insight and confidence through genuineness, interest, and humor.
Dr. Kaitlin Doran is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in chronic pain management, depression and anxiety, LGBTQIA issues, women’s health issues, and life transitions. Her approach is warm and collaborative, informed by interpersonal and emotion-focused theories. She fosters a safe and nurturing environment from which to gain greater insight and confidence through genuineness, interest, and humor.
(628) 200-3679 View (628) 200-3679

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.