Photo of Hypnotherapy & Reiki @ Natural Health Center in San Jose, CA
Hypnotherapy & Reiki @ Natural Health Center
BS, CCHT, Reiki
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95130
Seeking solutions that bring balance and calm in your life? I offer guided mind body healing therapies such as Hypnotherapy and EFT, that empower you to find solutions for the following issues: PAIN, INSOMNIA, GRIEF, WEIGHT, ANXIETY, STRESS, TRAUMA, HABITS, CRAVINGS, RELATIONSHIPS, or PAST LIVES. Hypnotherapy can be effective in building a bridge between the conscious mind and subconscious mind in order to explore the source and solutions of emotional, mental, and physical issues. This expanded state of consciousness allows for genuine realizations and the motivation to implement lasting transformations.
Seeking solutions that bring balance and calm in your life? I offer guided mind body healing therapies such as Hypnotherapy and EFT, that empower you to find solutions for the following issues: PAIN, INSOMNIA, GRIEF, WEIGHT, ANXIETY, STRESS, TRAUMA, HABITS, CRAVINGS, RELATIONSHIPS, or PAST LIVES. Hypnotherapy can be effective in building a bridge between the conscious mind and subconscious mind in order to explore the source and solutions of emotional, mental, and physical issues. This expanded state of consciousness allows for genuine realizations and the motivation to implement lasting transformations.
(408) 707-3142 View (408) 707-3142
Photo of Ataraxy, Mental Health and Wellness, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Ataraxy, Mental Health and Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT, IC&RC, CADC-II
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128  (Online Only)
Are you in denial about getting support because you feel you can manage, but deep inside you know the help and support could benefit you so much? If you are feeling depressed, anxious, having negative, and racing thoughts, and you are dealing with emotional pains because of trauma, addiction, relationship issues, and interpersonal challenges, the pain does not go away. You are struggling with obsessive thoughts, and impulse control because of fear and feeling misunderstood because of the mental health struggles. We are here to support you, work with us, we listen, empower, and transform. Start today to take control of your life.
Are you in denial about getting support because you feel you can manage, but deep inside you know the help and support could benefit you so much? If you are feeling depressed, anxious, having negative, and racing thoughts, and you are dealing with emotional pains because of trauma, addiction, relationship issues, and interpersonal challenges, the pain does not go away. You are struggling with obsessive thoughts, and impulse control because of fear and feeling misunderstood because of the mental health struggles. We are here to support you, work with us, we listen, empower, and transform. Start today to take control of your life.
(408) 762-3289 View (408) 762-3289
Photo of Kate Sutton, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Kate Sutton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95120
I provide a safe and welcoming space to discuss anything from sexual/relationship issues postpartum, to gender dysphoria, making good sex great, erectile problems, pain during sex, kink, or disturbing sexual interests.
Let’s talk about sex and relationships! I am here to help you feel comfortable working through the hard stuff, and sex and relationship issues can be some of the hardest stuff for people to talk about. Together, we’ll create a comfortable, judgment-free space to explore your wants and needs, improve communication with others in your life, and promote intimate, meaningful, and healthy (sexual) relationships. My aim is to help you, and any potentially involved partner(s), to reach your full personal, relationship, and sexual potential in order to lead your happiest and most fulfilling life.
I provide a safe and welcoming space to discuss anything from sexual/relationship issues postpartum, to gender dysphoria, making good sex great, erectile problems, pain during sex, kink, or disturbing sexual interests.
Let’s talk about sex and relationships! I am here to help you feel comfortable working through the hard stuff, and sex and relationship issues can be some of the hardest stuff for people to talk about. Together, we’ll create a comfortable, judgment-free space to explore your wants and needs, improve communication with others in your life, and promote intimate, meaningful, and healthy (sexual) relationships. My aim is to help you, and any potentially involved partner(s), to reach your full personal, relationship, and sexual potential in order to lead your happiest and most fulfilling life.
(833) 922-1505 View (833) 922-1505
Photo of Angela Li: Brainspotting Anxiety Trauma Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Angela Li: Brainspotting Anxiety Trauma Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124
I work with trauma/PTSD, anxiety, psychosomatic issues, chronic pain, medical injuries/anxiety, GAD, phobias, panic, social anxiety, OCD, life transitions, boundaries, inter-generational cultural problems, and depression.
Are trauma, anxiety and insecurity controlling your life, preventing you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it fails to convince your heart otherwise. As horrible as those experiences were in the past, they continue to zap away your joy and confidence today. You might even avoid situations that trigger the feelings. Are there any lost part of you that you'd like to return to? Do others believe in your competence more than you believe in yourself? What would it be like if life was driven by passion and joy, not fear or shame?
I work with trauma/PTSD, anxiety, psychosomatic issues, chronic pain, medical injuries/anxiety, GAD, phobias, panic, social anxiety, OCD, life transitions, boundaries, inter-generational cultural problems, and depression.
Are trauma, anxiety and insecurity controlling your life, preventing you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it fails to convince your heart otherwise. As horrible as those experiences were in the past, they continue to zap away your joy and confidence today. You might even avoid situations that trigger the feelings. Are there any lost part of you that you'd like to return to? Do others believe in your competence more than you believe in yourself? What would it be like if life was driven by passion and joy, not fear or shame?
(669) 232-8177 View (669) 232-8177
Photo of Akshay Naresh, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Akshay Naresh
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128  (Online Only)
Dr. Akshay Naresh is a clinical psychologist and has worked with patients across the lifespan in various contexts including community mental health clinics, hospitals, and educational facilities (secondary, community colleges, & universities). He has experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, body image issues, eating disorders, relationship issues, gender and sexual identity, and multi-cultural issues. He uses an integrative approach to create a space for meaningful life changes by helping patients develop self-compassion, self-acceptance, and self-awareness.
Dr. Akshay Naresh is a clinical psychologist and has worked with patients across the lifespan in various contexts including community mental health clinics, hospitals, and educational facilities (secondary, community colleges, & universities). He has experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, body image issues, eating disorders, relationship issues, gender and sexual identity, and multi-cultural issues. He uses an integrative approach to create a space for meaningful life changes by helping patients develop self-compassion, self-acceptance, and self-awareness.
(341) 444-3852 View (341) 444-3852
Photo of Lottie Cooper, LPC Intern in San Jose, CA
Lottie Cooper
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95139
Are you feeling stuck and want a breakthrough? I can facilitate releasing your physical, emotional, spiritual pain that is stored in the body. Are you ready to commit to yourself ? I am committed to supporting you in creating a joyful & fulfilling life. I use many modalities to individualize sessions to meet your needs to heal your pain mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Learn sensitive ways of thinking and communicating to support your relationships, create new perspectives, inner wisdom, and self-love, for a more fulfilling life. Learn skills to easily release stress, and explorations to track your progress.
Are you feeling stuck and want a breakthrough? I can facilitate releasing your physical, emotional, spiritual pain that is stored in the body. Are you ready to commit to yourself ? I am committed to supporting you in creating a joyful & fulfilling life. I use many modalities to individualize sessions to meet your needs to heal your pain mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Learn sensitive ways of thinking and communicating to support your relationships, create new perspectives, inner wisdom, and self-love, for a more fulfilling life. Learn skills to easily release stress, and explorations to track your progress.
(828) 944-4105 View (828) 944-4105
Photo of Snezana Anna Bandic, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Snezana Anna Bandic
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95120
My goal is to help you heal your emotional pain, make decisions that are right for you, and achieve your best self.
Do you feel stressed out at home, work or school? Are you struggling to understand your partner or child? Are you tired of having the same argument over and over? Are you experiencing a constant worry that keeps you awake at night? Do you feel difficulty in trying to connect with others? Are you having trouble figuring out the next step in your career? Therapy can help!
My goal is to help you heal your emotional pain, make decisions that are right for you, and achieve your best self.
Do you feel stressed out at home, work or school? Are you struggling to understand your partner or child? Are you tired of having the same argument over and over? Are you experiencing a constant worry that keeps you awake at night? Do you feel difficulty in trying to connect with others? Are you having trouble figuring out the next step in your career? Therapy can help!
(669) 221-4505 View (669) 221-4505
Photo of Shadi Gholizadeh, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Shadi Gholizadeh
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95120
I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, challenging life transitions, or new roles (e.g., caregiving, parenthood, breakups, juggling family and professional life). I often work with high-achieving individuals in demanding fields (e.g, physicians, attorneys, entrepreneurs) who are facing burnout and barriers to growth. I also have expertise working with family caregivers of loved ones with dementia or chronic illness. I have training in evidence-based therapies (CBT, ACT, EFT) for a wide range of problems.
I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, challenging life transitions, or new roles (e.g., caregiving, parenthood, breakups, juggling family and professional life). I often work with high-achieving individuals in demanding fields (e.g, physicians, attorneys, entrepreneurs) who are facing burnout and barriers to growth. I also have expertise working with family caregivers of loved ones with dementia or chronic illness. I have training in evidence-based therapies (CBT, ACT, EFT) for a wide range of problems.
(949) 403-6803 View (949) 403-6803
Photo of Alison Murphey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Alison Murphey, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124  (Online Only)
As a therapist specializing in anxiety, chronic health and pain conditions, trauma, and addiction, I have the expertise you need to get on the road to the peace, and fulfillment you deserve.
Do you feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, anger or defeat, as a result of a significant life change or past trauma? Maybe a relationship has ended or a new phase of life has just begun. Perhaps you’re living with the long-term effects of abuse, pain, or other traumatic experience. You may feel out of control & unsafe of your life or emotions, anxious about even the smallest things, or like you just can’t find your footing. Eventually, these things start to overflow into other areas of life: your relationships, work, and decisions about the future. Despite how hard things are right now, you know there’s more to life than this.
As a therapist specializing in anxiety, chronic health and pain conditions, trauma, and addiction, I have the expertise you need to get on the road to the peace, and fulfillment you deserve.
Do you feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, anger or defeat, as a result of a significant life change or past trauma? Maybe a relationship has ended or a new phase of life has just begun. Perhaps you’re living with the long-term effects of abuse, pain, or other traumatic experience. You may feel out of control & unsafe of your life or emotions, anxious about even the smallest things, or like you just can’t find your footing. Eventually, these things start to overflow into other areas of life: your relationships, work, and decisions about the future. Despite how hard things are right now, you know there’s more to life than this.
(747) 477-8649 View (747) 477-8649
Photo of Naomi David, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Naomi David
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113  (Online Only)
"The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction not a destination" - Carl Rogers. As a therapist, I believe in helping clients find (or rediscover) their direction in living the life that best suits them. I also believe that one of the most important factors in therapy is the goodness of "fit" between therapist and client. Through the therapeutic process, I work towards helping clients learn insights about their life, which in turn help them to make better choices and find more overall satisfaction in their life.
"The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction not a destination" - Carl Rogers. As a therapist, I believe in helping clients find (or rediscover) their direction in living the life that best suits them. I also believe that one of the most important factors in therapy is the goodness of "fit" between therapist and client. Through the therapeutic process, I work towards helping clients learn insights about their life, which in turn help them to make better choices and find more overall satisfaction in their life.
(650) 523-7695 View (650) 523-7695
Photo of Stephanie Neutz, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Stephanie Neutz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
There are times in life that we find ourselves struggling to make sense of something that has happened or trying to figure out what is holding us back from being our best selves. We all have those relationships (friends/work/family/romantic), life changes, and even impactful events that affect us on deeper levels and influence our decisions, whether we know it or not. If you are seeking assistance with exploring past or present issues in your life, I am here to offer support and guidance. We all need a little extra help sometimes so why wait any longer to ask?
There are times in life that we find ourselves struggling to make sense of something that has happened or trying to figure out what is holding us back from being our best selves. We all have those relationships (friends/work/family/romantic), life changes, and even impactful events that affect us on deeper levels and influence our decisions, whether we know it or not. If you are seeking assistance with exploring past or present issues in your life, I am here to offer support and guidance. We all need a little extra help sometimes so why wait any longer to ask?
(408) 413-3026 View (408) 413-3026
Photo of Dr. Rob Grellman - Relationship And Stress Expert, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Dr. Rob Grellman - Relationship And Stress Expert
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124
My experience in mental health began in 1981 as a residential therapist with youth in group homes and since then I have worked extensively with youth, families, couples, individual men and women - I have worked extensively around issues of emotional dis-regulation, family dysfunction, addictions of various sorts, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, codependency, and some dissociative disorders as well - I consider treatment very paradoxical, I believe it is important how to gain Freedom from has had Harmful Affect & Control over one's life and Learn how to Live Realistically and yet with Meaning & Purpose !!
My experience in mental health began in 1981 as a residential therapist with youth in group homes and since then I have worked extensively with youth, families, couples, individual men and women - I have worked extensively around issues of emotional dis-regulation, family dysfunction, addictions of various sorts, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, codependency, and some dissociative disorders as well - I consider treatment very paradoxical, I believe it is important how to gain Freedom from has had Harmful Affect & Control over one's life and Learn how to Live Realistically and yet with Meaning & Purpose !!
(408) 214-8227 View (408) 214-8227
Photo of Holly-Marie Arce, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Holly-Marie Arce
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124
Dr. Arce is a licensed clinical psychologist, experienced in working with multicultural individuals, catering treatment to patient's needs. She has worked in multiple settings including: university counseling, hospitals, medical school, and community mental health agencies. Most recently she has worked with couples in pre-marital counseling. Dr. Arce specializes in life transitions, anxiety disorders, depression, heath-related difficulties, relationships, and spiritual development. Communication of needs and progress are reviewed regularly to ensure that each patient finds value in the time spent in treatment.
Dr. Arce is a licensed clinical psychologist, experienced in working with multicultural individuals, catering treatment to patient's needs. She has worked in multiple settings including: university counseling, hospitals, medical school, and community mental health agencies. Most recently she has worked with couples in pre-marital counseling. Dr. Arce specializes in life transitions, anxiety disorders, depression, heath-related difficulties, relationships, and spiritual development. Communication of needs and progress are reviewed regularly to ensure that each patient finds value in the time spent in treatment.
(408) 669-4076 View (408) 669-4076
Photo of Mariann C. Tymn, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Mariann C. Tymn, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
Do you need help to make changes in your life? My main areas of interest & experience include parenting issues, LGBTQ issues, sexual abuse, trauma (childhood & recent), marriage/relationship problems, depression, ADHD, & career counseling. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultures, ethnicities, and sexual/gender orientation. My work with you begins by providing a safe and non-judging place for you to talk about your needs. We will work together to help you make positive changes in your life. I am happy to answer any questions about how I work and how therapy might work for you.
Do you need help to make changes in your life? My main areas of interest & experience include parenting issues, LGBTQ issues, sexual abuse, trauma (childhood & recent), marriage/relationship problems, depression, ADHD, & career counseling. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultures, ethnicities, and sexual/gender orientation. My work with you begins by providing a safe and non-judging place for you to talk about your needs. We will work together to help you make positive changes in your life. I am happy to answer any questions about how I work and how therapy might work for you.
(408) 622-0746 View (408) 622-0746
Photo of Lana Shatil, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Jose, CA
Lana Shatil
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
If you stay awake at night with troubling thoughts, feel lonely even when in a relationship, and use distractions of substances, media, sex, or work, I invite you to take ownership of your life. Relational issues in private or professional life, parenting, career decisions, unpleasant symptoms of depression or anxiety, moods preventing enjoyment of life, identity concerns, and problematic behavior patterns are all welcome here as they are our guideposts for exploration. I believe in a holistic approach to healing with the mind, heart, body, and spirit integrated.
If you stay awake at night with troubling thoughts, feel lonely even when in a relationship, and use distractions of substances, media, sex, or work, I invite you to take ownership of your life. Relational issues in private or professional life, parenting, career decisions, unpleasant symptoms of depression or anxiety, moods preventing enjoyment of life, identity concerns, and problematic behavior patterns are all welcome here as they are our guideposts for exploration. I believe in a holistic approach to healing with the mind, heart, body, and spirit integrated.
(408) 351-8078 View (408) 351-8078
Photo of Debora Burgard, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Debora Burgard
Psychologist, PhD, FAED
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95160  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Finding a therapist is such a leap of faith. It is one of life's challenges that at a time when you might feel the most vulnerable, you also have the least information about whether someone can help! I'm told I'm good person to talk to if something is bothering you and you want to figure it out. I try to support that inner flame of resistance and kindness toward yourself in the face of all the challenges. I am one of the founders of the Health at Every Size (HAES) and Body Positive movements. May you find a good match!
Finding a therapist is such a leap of faith. It is one of life's challenges that at a time when you might feel the most vulnerable, you also have the least information about whether someone can help! I'm told I'm good person to talk to if something is bothering you and you want to figure it out. I try to support that inner flame of resistance and kindness toward yourself in the face of all the challenges. I am one of the founders of the Health at Every Size (HAES) and Body Positive movements. May you find a good match!
(650) 321-2606 View (650) 321-2606
Photo of Vera Velini, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Vera Velini
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
You have just made an important step towards creating the life you desire to live. I specialize in finding one's happiness and peace whether it be within the life of the individual, within a relationship or within a family. My passion is working with individuals and couples who desire to create deepest loving relationships, live their life authentically, find their purpose, and realize their dreams. Regardless of the challenges you face, our programs are designed to help you create and experience positive changes that last a lifetime. (NOTE: Don't forget to ask us about our SPECIAL PACKAGES)
You have just made an important step towards creating the life you desire to live. I specialize in finding one's happiness and peace whether it be within the life of the individual, within a relationship or within a family. My passion is working with individuals and couples who desire to create deepest loving relationships, live their life authentically, find their purpose, and realize their dreams. Regardless of the challenges you face, our programs are designed to help you create and experience positive changes that last a lifetime. (NOTE: Don't forget to ask us about our SPECIAL PACKAGES)
(408) 837-0663 View (408) 837-0663
Photo of Becca Pele, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Jose, CA
Becca Pele
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95123  (Online Only)
Hi and welcome! I combine traditional and holistic therapeutic approaches to support and facilitate client curiosity, exploration, and growth. My therapy practice is oriented as anti-oppression, anti-racist, community oriented, feminist, wherein I view therapy as social justice work. I am dedicated to maintaining a strength-based, compassionate, light-hearted space to support clients in strengthening their self-awareness, self-advocacy and connecting them with the wisdom that is already there. My goal is to meet my clients 'where' they are and maintain unconditional positive regard for clients, and their loved ones.
Hi and welcome! I combine traditional and holistic therapeutic approaches to support and facilitate client curiosity, exploration, and growth. My therapy practice is oriented as anti-oppression, anti-racist, community oriented, feminist, wherein I view therapy as social justice work. I am dedicated to maintaining a strength-based, compassionate, light-hearted space to support clients in strengthening their self-awareness, self-advocacy and connecting them with the wisdom that is already there. My goal is to meet my clients 'where' they are and maintain unconditional positive regard for clients, and their loved ones.
(408) 351-8234 View (408) 351-8234
Photo of Melinda Carlisle Brackett, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Melinda Carlisle Brackett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
Are you looking for therapy that is efficient, time-sensitive, and focused on practical strategies? I am a Behavioral Therapist whose approach includes short-term, evidence-based therapies for adults, couples, parents, adolescents and groups. My style is collaborative and includes skill-building in critical areas such as communication and relationship repair. I treat complex Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Panic, Bipolar, Depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I'm clear and direct- keeping our work on track so you meet your goals- while building in you the capacity for flexibility in order to have a peaceful and enjoyable life.
Are you looking for therapy that is efficient, time-sensitive, and focused on practical strategies? I am a Behavioral Therapist whose approach includes short-term, evidence-based therapies for adults, couples, parents, adolescents and groups. My style is collaborative and includes skill-building in critical areas such as communication and relationship repair. I treat complex Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Panic, Bipolar, Depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I'm clear and direct- keeping our work on track so you meet your goals- while building in you the capacity for flexibility in order to have a peaceful and enjoyable life.
(408) 641-6424 View (408) 641-6424
Photo of Two Chairs - San Jose, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Two Chairs - San Jose
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113
Two Chairs was founded in 2017 with a mission to build a world where everyone has access to exceptional mental healthcare. We're creating a better experience for both patients and clinicians by starting with an in-depth, research-backed matching process to ensure the ideal patient-therapist fit, offering hybrid care that gives patients and clinicians flexibility between in-person and virtual sessions, and measuring outcomes to ensure patients get better faster.
Two Chairs was founded in 2017 with a mission to build a world where everyone has access to exceptional mental healthcare. We're creating a better experience for both patients and clinicians by starting with an in-depth, research-backed matching process to ensure the ideal patient-therapist fit, offering hybrid care that gives patients and clinicians flexibility between in-person and virtual sessions, and measuring outcomes to ensure patients get better faster.
(408) 617-8096 View (408) 617-8096
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.