Photo of Erin Elfant, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Erin Elfant
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
If you are struggling with an eating disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety/phobia, depression/ bipolar, chronic pain/ medical condition, sleep disturbance, or dual diagnosis/ substance abuse, you will find that my treatment framework allows you make considerable progress in symptom reduction each week. To bolster our in-person psychotherapy sessions, I provide email exchange throughout the week (at no additional cost) to help you make further progress toward your treatment goals. You will find me to be very accessible, knowledgeable, compassionate, and effective at addressing your specific therapy needs, and you will make important life changes more quickly than imagined.
If you are struggling with an eating disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety/phobia, depression/ bipolar, chronic pain/ medical condition, sleep disturbance, or dual diagnosis/ substance abuse, you will find that my treatment framework allows you make considerable progress in symptom reduction each week. To bolster our in-person psychotherapy sessions, I provide email exchange throughout the week (at no additional cost) to help you make further progress toward your treatment goals. You will find me to be very accessible, knowledgeable, compassionate, and effective at addressing your specific therapy needs, and you will make important life changes more quickly than imagined.
(805) 467-7274 View (805) 467-7274
Photo of Thomas Steffora, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Thomas Steffora
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
In my work with individuals and couples, depression and anxiety are frequently cited; but so too are medical problems, chronic pain, addiction issues, and effects on the family.
Rather than feel like the future is known and already laid out with predictable patterns of suffering, I'd like to suggest that perhaps this thought/feeling is an understandable predicament but one that is inherently false. The future is uncertain. It is a road not yet traveled. Working with someone who approaches life and relationships with this perspective may be an important piece of seeing what possibilities are present.
In my work with individuals and couples, depression and anxiety are frequently cited; but so too are medical problems, chronic pain, addiction issues, and effects on the family.
Rather than feel like the future is known and already laid out with predictable patterns of suffering, I'd like to suggest that perhaps this thought/feeling is an understandable predicament but one that is inherently false. The future is uncertain. It is a road not yet traveled. Working with someone who approaches life and relationships with this perspective may be an important piece of seeing what possibilities are present.
(805) 288-7787 View (805) 288-7787
Photo of Ioana B Cebulla, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Ioana B Cebulla
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I have completed the comprehensive CBT, DBT and ACT trainings, as well as specialized training for the treatment of OCD and related disorders (ERP), Anxiety and related disorders (exposure-based CBT), Depression (CBT, ACT Behavioral Activation), PTSD (CPT and PE), Chronic Pain (CBT-CP), insomnia (CBT-I), and psychosis (CBT).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering evidence-based treatment for anxiety and related disorders, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, trauma and other stress related disorders, mood disorders, well as psychosis. My frame of work is based on CBT, including mindfulness based approach, as well as DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to enhance distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), which is a values-based CBT focusing on willingness, commitment, and valued-action towards a meaningful, fulfilling, and vital life.
I have completed the comprehensive CBT, DBT and ACT trainings, as well as specialized training for the treatment of OCD and related disorders (ERP), Anxiety and related disorders (exposure-based CBT), Depression (CBT, ACT Behavioral Activation), PTSD (CPT and PE), Chronic Pain (CBT-CP), insomnia (CBT-I), and psychosis (CBT).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering evidence-based treatment for anxiety and related disorders, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, trauma and other stress related disorders, mood disorders, well as psychosis. My frame of work is based on CBT, including mindfulness based approach, as well as DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to enhance distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), which is a values-based CBT focusing on willingness, commitment, and valued-action towards a meaningful, fulfilling, and vital life.
(805) 521-4331 View (805) 521-4331
Photo of Sarah Medzyk, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo, CA
Sarah Medzyk
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
The difficulties of everyday life can sometimes become overwhelming. When on top of those difficulties we add the stresses of illness, anxiety, depression, our identity, our love lives and more-we can easily feel burdened to our breaking point. We just don't feel heard. Sometimes these situations can linger for months or years, making it hard to meet our obligations and live our lives in the way we would like. However, those difficulties and stresses don't need to define who we are-or where we're going. It's my goal as a therapist to help you tell your story.
The difficulties of everyday life can sometimes become overwhelming. When on top of those difficulties we add the stresses of illness, anxiety, depression, our identity, our love lives and more-we can easily feel burdened to our breaking point. We just don't feel heard. Sometimes these situations can linger for months or years, making it hard to meet our obligations and live our lives in the way we would like. However, those difficulties and stresses don't need to define who we are-or where we're going. It's my goal as a therapist to help you tell your story.
(805) 516-0323 View (805) 516-0323
Photo of Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling , Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
(805) 876-9092 View (805) 876-9092
Photo of Ashley Smith - Balasana Therapeutic Arts, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Ashley Smith - Balasana Therapeutic Arts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RYT200
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
I have 20 years experience working with stressed and traumatized youth in the foster and probation systems; as a full-time therapist with County Mental Health for 12 years I gained much experience and training as a specialist in stress, trauma and sexual abuse. I’m excited to be available to serve parents, youth, and adults seeking to heal from developmental stress or trauma. I use directive, engaging and short-term interventions to facilitate your power to restore a sense of peace and control in your life. I want to help you create the life you know you deserve, you are not the problem and you will see, you can be the solution.
I have 20 years experience working with stressed and traumatized youth in the foster and probation systems; as a full-time therapist with County Mental Health for 12 years I gained much experience and training as a specialist in stress, trauma and sexual abuse. I’m excited to be available to serve parents, youth, and adults seeking to heal from developmental stress or trauma. I use directive, engaging and short-term interventions to facilitate your power to restore a sense of peace and control in your life. I want to help you create the life you know you deserve, you are not the problem and you will see, you can be the solution.
(805) 316-7056 View (805) 316-7056
Photo of Lauren Phelps, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Lauren Phelps
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are you seeking a trustworthy ally to navigate your fears, hopes, and aspirations? Perhaps you’re struggling to break free from negative coping habits or you're exploring unconventional paths, such as consensual non-monogamous relationships or LGBTQIA2+ identities, and desire affirming support. I specialize in providing a safe, affirming space where you can explore your unique journey. Through somatic psychology techniques, we can uncover insights and transform unhelpful patterns. You deserve to be authentically seen and celebrated for your contributions to the world.
Are you seeking a trustworthy ally to navigate your fears, hopes, and aspirations? Perhaps you’re struggling to break free from negative coping habits or you're exploring unconventional paths, such as consensual non-monogamous relationships or LGBTQIA2+ identities, and desire affirming support. I specialize in providing a safe, affirming space where you can explore your unique journey. Through somatic psychology techniques, we can uncover insights and transform unhelpful patterns. You deserve to be authentically seen and celebrated for your contributions to the world.
(805) 369-1068 View (805) 369-1068
Photo of Hannah Roberts, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Hannah Roberts
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Openings available this week with my team of therapists at Thrive SLO. I work with college students and adults feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and/or anxious. Need balance in your life? Facing grief, past trauma, or coping with difficult family situations? Or maybe you are thinking about coming out to your family and friends? I offer expertise, guidance and support for you to navigate these challenges. I'm passionate about the personal transformation that comes through therapy. I love working with curious individuals who want to better understand themselves, their emotions, & their relationships.
Openings available this week with my team of therapists at Thrive SLO. I work with college students and adults feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and/or anxious. Need balance in your life? Facing grief, past trauma, or coping with difficult family situations? Or maybe you are thinking about coming out to your family and friends? I offer expertise, guidance and support for you to navigate these challenges. I'm passionate about the personal transformation that comes through therapy. I love working with curious individuals who want to better understand themselves, their emotions, & their relationships.
(805) 284-0451 View (805) 284-0451
Photo of Becky Sznejkowski, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Becky Sznejkowski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step" - Lao Tzu. Having the courage to work on yourself to reach your full potential does not have to happen alone. As a psychologist and cancer survivor, I've experienced physical and emotional challenges that led to positive and healthy lifestyle changes. I hope to use these experiences to help others on their journey with emotional issues, chronic medical conditions, grief, life transition issues, or those who want to improve nutrition and lifestyle. I hope to walk this journey with you in order to facilitate growth and healing.
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step" - Lao Tzu. Having the courage to work on yourself to reach your full potential does not have to happen alone. As a psychologist and cancer survivor, I've experienced physical and emotional challenges that led to positive and healthy lifestyle changes. I hope to use these experiences to help others on their journey with emotional issues, chronic medical conditions, grief, life transition issues, or those who want to improve nutrition and lifestyle. I hope to walk this journey with you in order to facilitate growth and healing.
(805) 246-9521 View (805) 246-9521
Photo of Bobby Tehrani, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Bobby Tehrani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
My primary focus in private practice is evaluation and assessment for a variety of psychological conditions, such as ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities and Personality Disorders. The second focus I have is treatment. I have an integrative approach to therapy in which I use multiple modalities that fit my clients’ individual needs. Some of the modalities I use are interpersonal therapy, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I also view other factors that can affect the client, such as cultural, medical, and environmental factors.
My primary focus in private practice is evaluation and assessment for a variety of psychological conditions, such as ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities and Personality Disorders. The second focus I have is treatment. I have an integrative approach to therapy in which I use multiple modalities that fit my clients’ individual needs. Some of the modalities I use are interpersonal therapy, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I also view other factors that can affect the client, such as cultural, medical, and environmental factors.
(805) 409-8239 View (805) 409-8239
Photo of Debra Kambourian, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Debra Kambourian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you ever find yourself asking, "Why can't I just get my life together, get along with people like everyone else?" "Am I the crazy one?" How about "I'm tired of feeling misunderstood, walked all over, like I can't do anything right." It's easy to feel stuck and alone when struggling in life and relationships, as if you're "too emotional" and destined for a lonely and shameful life. Many opinions about what you're doing wrong and recommendations of how to fix discourage you, leaving you feeling even more flawed and confused than before. Most importantly, do you find yourself feeling sad and terrified that nobody will EVER get you?
Do you ever find yourself asking, "Why can't I just get my life together, get along with people like everyone else?" "Am I the crazy one?" How about "I'm tired of feeling misunderstood, walked all over, like I can't do anything right." It's easy to feel stuck and alone when struggling in life and relationships, as if you're "too emotional" and destined for a lonely and shameful life. Many opinions about what you're doing wrong and recommendations of how to fix discourage you, leaving you feeling even more flawed and confused than before. Most importantly, do you find yourself feeling sad and terrified that nobody will EVER get you?
(805) 316-7283 View (805) 316-7283
Photo of Kimberli Andridge, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Kimberli Andridge
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Do you need someone to support you as you navigate painful experiences, or help you find ways to cope and heal? Maybe a space to show up authentically, without fear of judgement? Perhaps you're curious about the things that leave you feeling stuck, your early family dynamics, or the impact of society on your experiences? If you'd like to have space to explore the past, while also getting practical day-to-day suggestions, I can help you navigate a variety of concerns, resulting in meaningful, long-lasting changes and a more fulfilling life.
Do you need someone to support you as you navigate painful experiences, or help you find ways to cope and heal? Maybe a space to show up authentically, without fear of judgement? Perhaps you're curious about the things that leave you feeling stuck, your early family dynamics, or the impact of society on your experiences? If you'd like to have space to explore the past, while also getting practical day-to-day suggestions, I can help you navigate a variety of concerns, resulting in meaningful, long-lasting changes and a more fulfilling life.
(805) 918-6248 View (805) 918-6248
Photo of Pacific Emotional Wellness, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Pacific Emotional Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AMFT, MA, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Pacific Emotional Wellness is a group therapy practice led by Camille Johnson, and consists of several skilled therapists including Rachel Cha, Grace Peavy, Audrey DeFrisco, Julie Jennings, Debbie Whitney, Cassidy Pierce, Téa Main, Griff Jennings, and Gabriel Solla. We take a deep and soulful approach to walking alongside our clients on their journey of growth and healing. Whether you are feeling stuck in the rut of life, dealing with grief/loss, having relationship concerns, experienced a trauma, etc., we are here for you no matter what stage of your healing journey you are in.
Pacific Emotional Wellness is a group therapy practice led by Camille Johnson, and consists of several skilled therapists including Rachel Cha, Grace Peavy, Audrey DeFrisco, Julie Jennings, Debbie Whitney, Cassidy Pierce, Téa Main, Griff Jennings, and Gabriel Solla. We take a deep and soulful approach to walking alongside our clients on their journey of growth and healing. Whether you are feeling stuck in the rut of life, dealing with grief/loss, having relationship concerns, experienced a trauma, etc., we are here for you no matter what stage of your healing journey you are in.
(805) 519-8468 View (805) 519-8468
Photo of Stacy Guisse, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Stacy Guisse
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93403
My journey in the healing arts is a wonderful one and involves working with clients of all ages and stages of life. I have an integrated therapy approach with a specific focus on intermodal therapies, life transitions, community building, and family/group work. I work with clients who can be experiencing anxiety, adolescent anxiety, depression, substance abuse, significant life adjustments/transitions, post traumatic stress, blended family dynamics, grief/loss, adjustment to motherhood, and couples communication challenges. In our work together we are transforming life challenges into growth opportunities and creative action in your life.
My journey in the healing arts is a wonderful one and involves working with clients of all ages and stages of life. I have an integrated therapy approach with a specific focus on intermodal therapies, life transitions, community building, and family/group work. I work with clients who can be experiencing anxiety, adolescent anxiety, depression, substance abuse, significant life adjustments/transitions, post traumatic stress, blended family dynamics, grief/loss, adjustment to motherhood, and couples communication challenges. In our work together we are transforming life challenges into growth opportunities and creative action in your life.
(805) 669-9081 View (805) 669-9081
Photo of Jenilee Sneed, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Jenilee Sneed
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, no matter what you do? You may be fed up with having anxiety or panic attacks, feeling like you’re always getting triggered, or feeling like you are no longer yourself. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. You want to be able to function in your day to day life again without feeling anxious and on edge. You’re ready to find tools to feel calm, stable, and at ease. You’re ready to understand why you feel the way you do. Most of all, you’re ready to reclaim your life.
Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, no matter what you do? You may be fed up with having anxiety or panic attacks, feeling like you’re always getting triggered, or feeling like you are no longer yourself. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. You want to be able to function in your day to day life again without feeling anxious and on edge. You’re ready to find tools to feel calm, stable, and at ease. You’re ready to understand why you feel the way you do. Most of all, you’re ready to reclaim your life.
(805) 232-5911 View (805) 232-5911
Photo of Sacred Path Holistic Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Sacred Path Holistic Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD , MA, LMFT, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Holistic & Affordable Therapy! At Sacred Path, our qualified therapists are looking forward to helping you access Your inner resources to heal, grow, and reclaim your life. With the right help you can heal from old wounds, release negative cycles and patterns, resolve symptoms of trauma and gain relief from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other relational issues. True healing affords us the ability to create the life that we desire. A life lived with meaning. Dr. Dolan
Holistic & Affordable Therapy! At Sacred Path, our qualified therapists are looking forward to helping you access Your inner resources to heal, grow, and reclaim your life. With the right help you can heal from old wounds, release negative cycles and patterns, resolve symptoms of trauma and gain relief from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other relational issues. True healing affords us the ability to create the life that we desire. A life lived with meaning. Dr. Dolan
(805) 232-7580 View (805) 232-7580
Photo of Carla Savage-Sachs, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Carla Savage-Sachs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I take a creative and individual approach to every client I work with, and view the practice of counseling as sacred work. My passion is to help others develop healthier, more functional lives, heal through loss and change, and ultimately grow with confidence into the person they want to become.” I have counseled individuals, couples, and families, including children and teens, helping each client develop new coping skills and a stronger internal system of resilience to navigate the difficult terrain of: anxiety/depression · relational/work distress divorce · grief, loss and bereavement · major life transitions. I find a special joy working alongside children and adolescents, encouraging the growth and development of their unique voice, inner sense of worth, and the tools necessary to handle the many changes and disruptions that they can face, including: · anxiety and depression * self harm * self esteem *body image and eating disorders * sexual identity questioning and development.
I take a creative and individual approach to every client I work with, and view the practice of counseling as sacred work. My passion is to help others develop healthier, more functional lives, heal through loss and change, and ultimately grow with confidence into the person they want to become.” I have counseled individuals, couples, and families, including children and teens, helping each client develop new coping skills and a stronger internal system of resilience to navigate the difficult terrain of: anxiety/depression · relational/work distress divorce · grief, loss and bereavement · major life transitions. I find a special joy working alongside children and adolescents, encouraging the growth and development of their unique voice, inner sense of worth, and the tools necessary to handle the many changes and disruptions that they can face, including: · anxiety and depression * self harm * self esteem *body image and eating disorders * sexual identity questioning and development.
(805) 793-0514 View (805) 793-0514
Photo of Dr. Deborah Smilovitz Foster, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Dr. Deborah Smilovitz Foster
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Each of us passes through struggles that are difficult to cope with. In working together to form a therapeutic relationship we can become healthier and more able to react more skillfully to the challenges that present themselves. My work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families is based off a strong clinical foundation and woven together with compassion, respect and caring. By resolving some of our issues we can become balanced and find improved overall health (mentally, physically, spiritually, financially, emotionally).
Each of us passes through struggles that are difficult to cope with. In working together to form a therapeutic relationship we can become healthier and more able to react more skillfully to the challenges that present themselves. My work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families is based off a strong clinical foundation and woven together with compassion, respect and caring. By resolving some of our issues we can become balanced and find improved overall health (mentally, physically, spiritually, financially, emotionally).
(805) 324-6515 View (805) 324-6515
Photo of Denise Bila Seastrunk in San Luis Obispo, CA
Denise Bila Seastrunk
RN, CNS, PhD, CTP
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I treat clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors and transitions. I enjoy working with adults and couples who are experiencing all types of issues. Dealing with parenting and adolescence can be challenging, but these are the types of challenges I embrace. Whatever your issues or goals are in therapy, I can provide an integrated way of helping you due to my educational background and varied life experiences.
I treat clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors and transitions. I enjoy working with adults and couples who are experiencing all types of issues. Dealing with parenting and adolescence can be challenging, but these are the types of challenges I embrace. Whatever your issues or goals are in therapy, I can provide an integrated way of helping you due to my educational background and varied life experiences.
(805) 244-6785 View (805) 244-6785
Photo of Halley Marie Moore, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Halley Marie Moore
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Need PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING to finally discover what is happening? Would you like to finally resolve issues within yourself/family/family business effectively and permanently? My style/approach is unique; my background lends itself well to families with small and large businesses who are trying to keep ownership a positive dynamic. Consultation in my office does not feel like another "thing to get done." If you put in effort, you'll find that our work together will be life-changing. Time is never wasted; I will listen to you while giving you the feedback you are longing for. You'll find that you grow and get stronger by the minute.
Need PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING to finally discover what is happening? Would you like to finally resolve issues within yourself/family/family business effectively and permanently? My style/approach is unique; my background lends itself well to families with small and large businesses who are trying to keep ownership a positive dynamic. Consultation in my office does not feel like another "thing to get done." If you put in effort, you'll find that our work together will be life-changing. Time is never wasted; I will listen to you while giving you the feedback you are longing for. You'll find that you grow and get stronger by the minute.
(805) 319-7957 View (805) 319-7957

See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo

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.