Photo of Katie Boucher, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Katie Boucher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, chronic illness, eating disorders, relationship issues, trauma, grief - and more.
Everyone has the capacity to change what's not working. My goal is to help you get to know all parts of yourself and understand that you are already in possession of a vast amount of resources for self-understanding, acceptance, and change. By showing appreciation for all parts of yourself, while focusing on your strengths and potentials, we will work to increase balance and well-being in your life.
I have worked with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, chronic illness, eating disorders, relationship issues, trauma, grief - and more.
Everyone has the capacity to change what's not working. My goal is to help you get to know all parts of yourself and understand that you are already in possession of a vast amount of resources for self-understanding, acceptance, and change. By showing appreciation for all parts of yourself, while focusing on your strengths and potentials, we will work to increase balance and well-being in your life.
(805) 855-0889 View (805) 855-0889
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 Summer Sessions Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in San Luis Obispo, CA
Summer Sessions Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPCC, LCSW, LCMHC, ACSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
You made it here, and we are here to support and listen. The goal of our team is to support the your needs with our diverse backgrounds and specialties. Whether you are experiencing a life stressor, ongoing anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma or more, you deserve support and we can help. Desde luego que mis servicios terapéuticos están disponibles en el español. Con muchísimo gusto estoy aquí para apoyarte y ayudarte. Please see our website, www.SummerSessionsCounseling.org, for available providers and booking (www.therapyportal.com/p/summersessions/appointments/availability/)
You made it here, and we are here to support and listen. The goal of our team is to support the your needs with our diverse backgrounds and specialties. Whether you are experiencing a life stressor, ongoing anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma or more, you deserve support and we can help. Desde luego que mis servicios terapéuticos están disponibles en el español. Con muchísimo gusto estoy aquí para apoyarte y ayudarte. Please see our website, www.SummerSessionsCounseling.org, for available providers and booking (www.therapyportal.com/p/summersessions/appointments/availability/)
(805) 243-0739 View (805) 243-0739
Photo of Laurel Olvera, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Laurel Olvera
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California with 23 years of professional work experience. My mission is to deliver life-changing care to teens, adults, families, couples and geriatric individuals who experience a wide array of mental health conditions and current life challenges. Such as: traumatic stress, struggles with feeling scattered and not accomplishing your goals, managing emotions, challenging negative thinking, and reducing stress and anxiety. Today's world can be intense and stressful, and it's taking an unprecedented toll on kids, teens, adults, couples and families.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California with 23 years of professional work experience. My mission is to deliver life-changing care to teens, adults, families, couples and geriatric individuals who experience a wide array of mental health conditions and current life challenges. Such as: traumatic stress, struggles with feeling scattered and not accomplishing your goals, managing emotions, challenging negative thinking, and reducing stress and anxiety. Today's world can be intense and stressful, and it's taking an unprecedented toll on kids, teens, adults, couples and families.
(805) 500-7803 View (805) 500-7803
Photo of Tom Buckley, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in San Luis Obispo, CA
Tom Buckley
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADCIII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Tom Buckley is the Executive Director of Aspire Counseling San Luis Obispo. Aspire SLO provides Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Services for Teens and Adults in an intensive outpatient setting. Do you or a loved one struggle with depression, anxiety, self harm, substances abuse, addiction issues, etc.? If so, call Aspire SLO at 805-329-5595 to speak with a counselor. To schedule an appointment 24/7 call 888-585-7373. Ask about or free weekly family support group!
Tom Buckley is the Executive Director of Aspire Counseling San Luis Obispo. Aspire SLO provides Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Services for Teens and Adults in an intensive outpatient setting. Do you or a loved one struggle with depression, anxiety, self harm, substances abuse, addiction issues, etc.? If so, call Aspire SLO at 805-329-5595 to speak with a counselor. To schedule an appointment 24/7 call 888-585-7373. Ask about or free weekly family support group!
(805) 549-5989 View (805) 549-5989
Photo of Adriana Gutierrez, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Adriana Gutierrez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Hi! I am Adriana Gutierrez, Licensed Marriage and family therapist who is passionate about bringing therapy services through an integrative and holistic approach. I want to join you in supporting the work towards finding balance from day-to-day stressors to addressing life-altering events that challenge our sense of self. In my years of experience, I have trained and treated from parent-infant dynamics to children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families. I have extensive training and experience in trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Hi! I am Adriana Gutierrez, Licensed Marriage and family therapist who is passionate about bringing therapy services through an integrative and holistic approach. I want to join you in supporting the work towards finding balance from day-to-day stressors to addressing life-altering events that challenge our sense of self. In my years of experience, I have trained and treated from parent-infant dynamics to children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families. I have extensive training and experience in trauma, anxiety, and depression.
(714) 497-2160 View (714) 497-2160
Photo of The Mindful Lemon, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
The Mindful Lemon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
(855) 435-4301 View (855) 435-4301
Photo of Eva Lomeli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Eva Lomeli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
My name is Eva A. Lomeli, LCSW. I have been a mental health provider for more than twenty-five years. I have helped clients with depression and anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, BPD, grief, end of life issues, trauma or sexual abuse, and relationship issues. I use a strength based perspective and employ Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Humanistic approaches. I am committed to providing a space where you can freely express your concerns, feel understood and valued, safely process your thoughts and feelings, and learn new skills and strategies to face life's challenges.
My name is Eva A. Lomeli, LCSW. I have been a mental health provider for more than twenty-five years. I have helped clients with depression and anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, BPD, grief, end of life issues, trauma or sexual abuse, and relationship issues. I use a strength based perspective and employ Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Humanistic approaches. I am committed to providing a space where you can freely express your concerns, feel understood and valued, safely process your thoughts and feelings, and learn new skills and strategies to face life's challenges.
(909) 308-5972 View (909) 308-5972
Photo of Rachel Kim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Rachel Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
I'm Rachel Kim, a licensed clinical social worker. My therapeutic approach is grounded in strength-based and attachment-focused therapies, tailored to each person's unique needs. With a warm and collaborative style, I emphasize creating a comfortable space for clients to explore their past and how it affects current thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships. My practice focuses on balancing processing, teaching new skills, and understanding how to change current patterns that no longer serve you.
I'm Rachel Kim, a licensed clinical social worker. My therapeutic approach is grounded in strength-based and attachment-focused therapies, tailored to each person's unique needs. With a warm and collaborative style, I emphasize creating a comfortable space for clients to explore their past and how it affects current thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships. My practice focuses on balancing processing, teaching new skills, and understanding how to change current patterns that no longer serve you.
(650) 665-5689 View (650) 665-5689

Online Therapists

Photo of Susan Mosier, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Susan Mosier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
I have worked with many humans to overcome challenges with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, family changes, serious medical conditions, chronic pain and end of life.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Professional Coach with 22 years of experience in mental and behavioral health. My specific training in Transpersonal Psychology combined with solution-focused methods brings a holistic approach to my work with each person. This means we will consider all aspects of your mind/body/spirit as we help you move toward feeling better.
I have worked with many humans to overcome challenges with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, family changes, serious medical conditions, chronic pain and end of life.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Professional Coach with 22 years of experience in mental and behavioral health. My specific training in Transpersonal Psychology combined with solution-focused methods brings a holistic approach to my work with each person. This means we will consider all aspects of your mind/body/spirit as we help you move toward feeling better.
(562) 526-0697 View (562) 526-0697
Photo of Karen Olson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Karen Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
Hi there, I'm Karen Olson, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been a social worker for over 20 years. I help people with issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, divorce, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My approach is direct and frank and I enjoy helping individuals and couples identify their strengths and overcome challenges. I take an eclectic approach that includes a variety of narrative/motivational interviewing. My ideal client is amenable to my direct approach and is as invested as I am in achieving their goals. I like feedback from clients on how they are doing and how our sessions are going.
Hi there, I'm Karen Olson, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been a social worker for over 20 years. I help people with issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, divorce, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My approach is direct and frank and I enjoy helping individuals and couples identify their strengths and overcome challenges. I take an eclectic approach that includes a variety of narrative/motivational interviewing. My ideal client is amenable to my direct approach and is as invested as I am in achieving their goals. I like feedback from clients on how they are doing and how our sessions are going.
(619) 374-8492 View (619) 374-8492
Photo of Erika Feely, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo, CA
Erika Feely
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101  (Online Only)
100% Online telehealth. Are you longing for clarity and ease? Most of our psychological pain and suffering, our inhibitions and limitations in achieving a satisfying life, are the result of primitive anxieties that we have carried within ourselves since the very time we were, indeed, really helpless. Through our work together, you'll learn the tools to understand the meaning underneath your emotions and move beyond feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Using both talk therapy and somatic (body-based) tools, our time together will be a place for you to heal, grow, and explore your inner world in a compassionate and non-judgmental space.
100% Online telehealth. Are you longing for clarity and ease? Most of our psychological pain and suffering, our inhibitions and limitations in achieving a satisfying life, are the result of primitive anxieties that we have carried within ourselves since the very time we were, indeed, really helpless. Through our work together, you'll learn the tools to understand the meaning underneath your emotions and move beyond feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Using both talk therapy and somatic (body-based) tools, our time together will be a place for you to heal, grow, and explore your inner world in a compassionate and non-judgmental space.
(805) 819-5553 View (805) 819-5553
Photo of Alisa Flakes, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Alisa Flakes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
I believe in the power of collective healing, and I would love to help you navigate through your pain and equip you with tools to make your recovery possible.
Hello, my name is Alisa Flakes and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I work with individuals ages 13+, couples, and families in a variety of areas including addiction, anger management, anxiety, behavioral issues, coping skills, cultural stress, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, grief, and trauma & PTSD, amongst others. My approach is strength-based, solution focused and utilizes several modalities such as ACT, CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Gottman Method, Gestalt, and more.
I believe in the power of collective healing, and I would love to help you navigate through your pain and equip you with tools to make your recovery possible.
Hello, my name is Alisa Flakes and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I work with individuals ages 13+, couples, and families in a variety of areas including addiction, anger management, anxiety, behavioral issues, coping skills, cultural stress, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, grief, and trauma & PTSD, amongst others. My approach is strength-based, solution focused and utilizes several modalities such as ACT, CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Gottman Method, Gestalt, and more.
(408) 539-8691 View (408) 539-8691
Photo of Kathryn Calcaterra, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Kathryn Calcaterra
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Tulare, CA 93274
My professional voyage has traversed healthcare, the realm of workers' compensation, and the corridors of education, all of which have endowed me with a rich tapestry of skills. I’m Kathryn Calcaterra, PhD, a clinical psychologist specializing in the art of healing. I focus on patients who grapple with the weight of chronic pain, dance with the shadows of anxiety and depression, and bear the scars of trauma. I typically treat adults and elders (65+), often who have a physical injury followed by an emotional sequela of chronic pain. I also treat patients struggling with anxiety and depression.
My professional voyage has traversed healthcare, the realm of workers' compensation, and the corridors of education, all of which have endowed me with a rich tapestry of skills. I’m Kathryn Calcaterra, PhD, a clinical psychologist specializing in the art of healing. I focus on patients who grapple with the weight of chronic pain, dance with the shadows of anxiety and depression, and bear the scars of trauma. I typically treat adults and elders (65+), often who have a physical injury followed by an emotional sequela of chronic pain. I also treat patients struggling with anxiety and depression.
(559) 719-6646 View (559) 719-6646
Photo of Jami Maloney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Jami Maloney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
I am experienced in treating grief and loss, trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, adjustment, chronic pain, substance use, family trauma, and locating resources.
Hello, my name is Jami Maloney, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in the field for approximately 14 years, and I have work experience in opiate addiction, child-welfare (adoptions and foster care), medical (renal/dialysis and hospice), working with military members and dependents, and in mental health. My approach to therapy is with empathy and compassion and without judgment. I am a client-focused therapist and am dedicated to advocating for my clients and ensuring that my treatment meets their needs. I promote open communication, so any questions and concerns are addressed.
I am experienced in treating grief and loss, trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, adjustment, chronic pain, substance use, family trauma, and locating resources.
Hello, my name is Jami Maloney, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in the field for approximately 14 years, and I have work experience in opiate addiction, child-welfare (adoptions and foster care), medical (renal/dialysis and hospice), working with military members and dependents, and in mental health. My approach to therapy is with empathy and compassion and without judgment. I am a client-focused therapist and am dedicated to advocating for my clients and ensuring that my treatment meets their needs. I promote open communication, so any questions and concerns are addressed.
(626) 702-2361 View (626) 702-2361
Photo of Marilyn J Meyer (Formerly Owen), Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Marilyn J Meyer (Formerly Owen)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Goleta, CA 93111
I have experienced parenting, divorce, bereavement, and chronic pain as well as love, joy, and boundless enthusiasm.
Many of my clients are those who tend to give too much, disconnect from their own needs and desires, feel depressed and anxious, and/or experience chronic pain. They are often highly sensitive and imaginative, helpers and healers, with literary, artistic, or philosophical leanings. They are all seeking to heal inner conflicts and relationship problems rooted in early attachment wounds or traumatic experiences. Most importantly, my clients have come to recognize it's time to do their inner work in order to create the outer life they want, and they continue to grow and deepen into their innate wisdom long after therapy has ended.
I have experienced parenting, divorce, bereavement, and chronic pain as well as love, joy, and boundless enthusiasm.
Many of my clients are those who tend to give too much, disconnect from their own needs and desires, feel depressed and anxious, and/or experience chronic pain. They are often highly sensitive and imaginative, helpers and healers, with literary, artistic, or philosophical leanings. They are all seeking to heal inner conflicts and relationship problems rooted in early attachment wounds or traumatic experiences. Most importantly, my clients have come to recognize it's time to do their inner work in order to create the outer life they want, and they continue to grow and deepen into their innate wisdom long after therapy has ended.
(805) 413-4895 View (805) 413-4895
Photo of Ronda Case, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Ronda Case
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Maria, CA 93454  (Online Only)
Welcome to the journey of your life! Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, but we do not have to let them keep us from healing and recovery. If you are ready to meet the issues in your life with curiosity and a willingness to break cycles, there is great hope for you. I believe all people have the inherent ability to recover from crisis, trauma and behavioral health issues. If you are lost about your purpose and meaning of life, we can find a way for you to design a life worth living by removing barriers and resolving challenges in life for you to become the best version of yourself.
Welcome to the journey of your life! Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, but we do not have to let them keep us from healing and recovery. If you are ready to meet the issues in your life with curiosity and a willingness to break cycles, there is great hope for you. I believe all people have the inherent ability to recover from crisis, trauma and behavioral health issues. If you are lost about your purpose and meaning of life, we can find a way for you to design a life worth living by removing barriers and resolving challenges in life for you to become the best version of yourself.
(208) 907-3376 View (208) 907-3376
Photo of Suzanne Volkas, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Suzanne Volkas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Maria, CA 93455
I am Suzanne Volkas, LMFT. I am here to help you overcome the obstacles that have kept you from living a satisfying and meaningful life. I believe that a supportive therapeutic relationship can be the starting point, from which many life issues can be addressed and healed. I am insightful and gentle, yet firm and confrontative, when appropriate. I am encouraging, nurturing, and have a deep capacity for empathy. I am committed to your growth and the changes you want to make in your life. I welcome your thoughts and questions. Please feel free to contact me for a free 15-minute phone consultation to see if we are a good fit.
I am Suzanne Volkas, LMFT. I am here to help you overcome the obstacles that have kept you from living a satisfying and meaningful life. I believe that a supportive therapeutic relationship can be the starting point, from which many life issues can be addressed and healed. I am insightful and gentle, yet firm and confrontative, when appropriate. I am encouraging, nurturing, and have a deep capacity for empathy. I am committed to your growth and the changes you want to make in your life. I welcome your thoughts and questions. Please feel free to contact me for a free 15-minute phone consultation to see if we are a good fit.
(559) 530-8149 View (559) 530-8149
Photo of James Earl Holland Jr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
James Earl Holland Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I SEE YOU! YES YOU! Great job on taking your first step! Have you ever felt anger, sadness, anxiety, been through trauma, suffered depression, addicted to something, annoyed with people or, just stuck in your everyday life? Well it’s time for you! Life throws us many obstacles and challenges that we overcome. We have all made mistakes, struggled with life and wondered if we made the right decisions. Sometimes we need advice, an ear to listen or just someone to tell us “Great Job”! I am here to work with you on whatever goal/issue that you want to focus on. I am a firm believer that we are the doctors of our own mind, body and soul.
I SEE YOU! YES YOU! Great job on taking your first step! Have you ever felt anger, sadness, anxiety, been through trauma, suffered depression, addicted to something, annoyed with people or, just stuck in your everyday life? Well it’s time for you! Life throws us many obstacles and challenges that we overcome. We have all made mistakes, struggled with life and wondered if we made the right decisions. Sometimes we need advice, an ear to listen or just someone to tell us “Great Job”! I am here to work with you on whatever goal/issue that you want to focus on. I am a firm believer that we are the doctors of our own mind, body and soul.
(661) 459-5828 View (661) 459-5828
Photo of Elizabeth Butler Greene, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Elizabeth Butler Greene
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Hanford, CA 93230
Hello, my name is Dr. Elizabeth Butler. I have been a licensed clinical psychologist based in California since 2007. My focus is simple: providing tools and a safe space to help my clients make progress in their lives and feel better. I have over 20 years of experience working with adults in group and individual settings, helping navigate life challenges that cause anxiety, stress, depression, and interpersonal difficulties. I have treated emotion dysregulation, anger management problems, boundary-setting issues, and core identity issues.
Hello, my name is Dr. Elizabeth Butler. I have been a licensed clinical psychologist based in California since 2007. My focus is simple: providing tools and a safe space to help my clients make progress in their lives and feel better. I have over 20 years of experience working with adults in group and individual settings, helping navigate life challenges that cause anxiety, stress, depression, and interpersonal difficulties. I have treated emotion dysregulation, anger management problems, boundary-setting issues, and core identity issues.
(559) 527-0975 View (559) 527-0975

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.