Chronic Pain Therapists in Thousand Oaks, CA

Photo of Shanna Willner, Counselor in Thousand Oaks, CA
Shanna Willner
Counselor, MA, PMP, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
I work with anxiety, PTS/D, chronic pain, medical trauma, abuse, and illness including insomnia, migraine, and body system issues.
You can heal. I'm an ally and guide in the process. I work with pts/d and trauma, anxiety, chronic pain, and attachment interruption. My work integrates psychotherapy, bio-psychology, behavioral change, and holistic practice, and I use the lense of attachment theory to guide us. We will dismantle the barriers that block you from living your fullest life, however you define that, and we'll help you build new pathways to travel forward. Together, we use our relationship, your self-knowledge and life-knowledge, and my specialized training to move your life into something personally satisfying. I expect to open an office 6/24
I work with anxiety, PTS/D, chronic pain, medical trauma, abuse, and illness including insomnia, migraine, and body system issues.
You can heal. I'm an ally and guide in the process. I work with pts/d and trauma, anxiety, chronic pain, and attachment interruption. My work integrates psychotherapy, bio-psychology, behavioral change, and holistic practice, and I use the lense of attachment theory to guide us. We will dismantle the barriers that block you from living your fullest life, however you define that, and we'll help you build new pathways to travel forward. Together, we use our relationship, your self-knowledge and life-knowledge, and my specialized training to move your life into something personally satisfying. I expect to open an office 6/24
(424) 206-6738 View (424) 206-6738
Photo of Diane R. Lipson, Ph.D., Psychologist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Diane R. Lipson, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
If you are feeling alone and frightened due to chronic illness or pain, there is help.
In my practice, I see patients dealing with anxiety and depression associated with chronic and severe Medical problems. As a Health Psychologist, I have been in private practice since 1986, following my Doctoral work at USC. In graduate school, my research was involved with psychological reactions to serious medical conditions. Since that time, I have worked with many patients suffering from pain, cardiac conditions, cancer and autoimmune disorders, in addition to helping people cope with grief. Chronic illness is life altering, and can affect every aspect of a person's life. Learning to cope is critical in reclaiming your life.
If you are feeling alone and frightened due to chronic illness or pain, there is help.
In my practice, I see patients dealing with anxiety and depression associated with chronic and severe Medical problems. As a Health Psychologist, I have been in private practice since 1986, following my Doctoral work at USC. In graduate school, my research was involved with psychological reactions to serious medical conditions. Since that time, I have worked with many patients suffering from pain, cardiac conditions, cancer and autoimmune disorders, in addition to helping people cope with grief. Chronic illness is life altering, and can affect every aspect of a person's life. Learning to cope is critical in reclaiming your life.
(818) 946-0671 View (818) 946-0671
Photo of Don M Goodman Inc, Psychologist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Don M Goodman Inc
Psychologist, PhD, CCHt, CDMHRS
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
I am on staff at UCLA as chief pain psychologist in the Orofacial pain department and I have offices in Santa Monica and Thousand Oaks.
I believe anxiety and stress to be the foundation of many issues we all face. My first goal is to help my patients reduce stress thereby decreasing chronic pain, depression and even the ravages of disease and illness. By developing rapport and trust and then utilizing healthy coping skills, the goal of anxiety reduction can be achieved. Its important to remember that we are engaged in a collaborative process where we learn to accept, resolve, move on and let go. I find that mindfulness, meditation and breathing is highly effective in decreasing anxiety and depression.
I am on staff at UCLA as chief pain psychologist in the Orofacial pain department and I have offices in Santa Monica and Thousand Oaks.
I believe anxiety and stress to be the foundation of many issues we all face. My first goal is to help my patients reduce stress thereby decreasing chronic pain, depression and even the ravages of disease and illness. By developing rapport and trust and then utilizing healthy coping skills, the goal of anxiety reduction can be achieved. Its important to remember that we are engaged in a collaborative process where we learn to accept, resolve, move on and let go. I find that mindfulness, meditation and breathing is highly effective in decreasing anxiety and depression.
(818) 462-8293 View (818) 462-8293
Photo of Beth Leedham - Individuals And Couples, Psychologist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Beth Leedham - Individuals And Couples
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
I also have special expertise helping families affected by medical illnesses, such as cancer, MS, diabetes, RA, colitis, Crohn's, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and neurological diseases.
With twenty-five years of experience and outstanding credentials, I have two goals for my clients: Solve the immediate problem that brings you to therapy, and promote lasting change. My arenas of work include depression, anxiety, stress, and relationship difficulties. I have extensive training in couples therapy and am an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist. I deal with all manner of sexual issues, including desire problems, addiction, affairs, and the "sexless marriage." I welcome clients from varied backgrounds and communities.
I also have special expertise helping families affected by medical illnesses, such as cancer, MS, diabetes, RA, colitis, Crohn's, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and neurological diseases.
With twenty-five years of experience and outstanding credentials, I have two goals for my clients: Solve the immediate problem that brings you to therapy, and promote lasting change. My arenas of work include depression, anxiety, stress, and relationship difficulties. I have extensive training in couples therapy and am an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist. I deal with all manner of sexual issues, including desire problems, addiction, affairs, and the "sexless marriage." I welcome clients from varied backgrounds and communities.
(818) 963-9278 View (818) 963-9278
Photo of Heidi Michelle Taylor, Psychologist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Heidi Michelle Taylor
Psychologist, PhD, MS, BS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Complicated grief and breavement, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, loss, pain and illness, supervised and monitored visitation, addiction and recovery, adoption and foster care, blended families, personal empowerment.
Do you want to stop skimming the surface and get to the heart of what's holding you back? Do you want to do that in a safe, supportive environment at your own pace? Do you want to do that with someone who believes you have the ability to free yourself and move ahead? There's never a better time to start than now.
Complicated grief and breavement, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, loss, pain and illness, supervised and monitored visitation, addiction and recovery, adoption and foster care, blended families, personal empowerment.
Do you want to stop skimming the surface and get to the heart of what's holding you back? Do you want to do that in a safe, supportive environment at your own pace? Do you want to do that with someone who believes you have the ability to free yourself and move ahead? There's never a better time to start than now.
(805) 214-6279 View (805) 214-6279
Photo of Isabel Bernal-Ward, PhD, Psychologist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Isabel Bernal-Ward, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Many people are struggling with worry, sadness, emotional/physical pain, and/or stress. I can teach you effective coping strategies to deal with these. I have been doing it successfully the past 20+ years. The results are people often experience more peace, better sleep, better mood, and better relationship connections with others at home and/or at work. Becoming a better you will be one of the best investments you will ever make. Call today to set up an appointment to discuss your particular situation.
Many people are struggling with worry, sadness, emotional/physical pain, and/or stress. I can teach you effective coping strategies to deal with these. I have been doing it successfully the past 20+ years. The results are people often experience more peace, better sleep, better mood, and better relationship connections with others at home and/or at work. Becoming a better you will be one of the best investments you will ever make. Call today to set up an appointment to discuss your particular situation.
(805) 312-7263 View (805) 312-7263
Photo of Elizabeth B Bailey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Elizabeth B Bailey
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320  (Online Only)
My focus is on mental wellbeing. I work with a full range of psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment issues, and trauma. I am experienced with chronic medical, mental illness and medical trauma. I draw upon my experience and training in providing understanding and support for your individual needs. I am seeing clients throughout the state of California via telehealth.
My focus is on mental wellbeing. I work with a full range of psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment issues, and trauma. I am experienced with chronic medical, mental illness and medical trauma. I draw upon my experience and training in providing understanding and support for your individual needs. I am seeing clients throughout the state of California via telehealth.
(310) 905-8448 View (310) 905-8448
Photo of Aimee Shapiro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Aimee Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Trauma, stress, and other painful experiences can cause us to develop negative thoughts and beliefs about ourselves and the world, keeping us stuck, and preventing us from moving forward. You may feel overwhelmed, powerless, hopeless, depressed or anxious or experience panic attacks. You tell yourself to "get over it," blame ourselves when we can't, and are often ashamed to let anyone know that we are struggling. You do not have to keep repeating the same patterns; life does not have to be all about pain and suffering. You can heal from your trauma, moving beyond those old behaviors to live happy, satisfying, fulfilling lives.
Trauma, stress, and other painful experiences can cause us to develop negative thoughts and beliefs about ourselves and the world, keeping us stuck, and preventing us from moving forward. You may feel overwhelmed, powerless, hopeless, depressed or anxious or experience panic attacks. You tell yourself to "get over it," blame ourselves when we can't, and are often ashamed to let anyone know that we are struggling. You do not have to keep repeating the same patterns; life does not have to be all about pain and suffering. You can heal from your trauma, moving beyond those old behaviors to live happy, satisfying, fulfilling lives.
(805) 926-6457 View (805) 926-6457
Photo of Shushan Khachatryan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Shushan Khachatryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
IT IS IN OUR DARKEST MOMENTS THAT WE MUST FOCUS TO SEE THE LIGHT. Your present circumstance does not determine your future. It's time to move from suffering & hardship to a place of happiness & comfort. I provide treatment & symptom relief for Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Trauma, OCD, Addiction, Anger, Grief, Infertility, Chronic Illness, Unemployment, & other life challenges that are holding you back from living the life you deserve. My goal is to assist you in working towards your potential & improving your well-being, as well as build on your strengths & attain the personal growth you are committed to accomplishing.
IT IS IN OUR DARKEST MOMENTS THAT WE MUST FOCUS TO SEE THE LIGHT. Your present circumstance does not determine your future. It's time to move from suffering & hardship to a place of happiness & comfort. I provide treatment & symptom relief for Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Trauma, OCD, Addiction, Anger, Grief, Infertility, Chronic Illness, Unemployment, & other life challenges that are holding you back from living the life you deserve. My goal is to assist you in working towards your potential & improving your well-being, as well as build on your strengths & attain the personal growth you are committed to accomplishing.
(818) 926-3030 View (818) 926-3030
Photo of Elizabeth Vines, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Elizabeth Vines
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360  (Online Only)
I specialize in complex trauma, phobias/anxiety, and chronic illness for adults and teens. Many of my clients are recovering from developmental trauma, learning to soothe overactive nervous systems, and hoping to identify and express their needs in a new way. My work is depth oriented, empowering, feminist, compassion focused, and client-centered. I work well with artists and creative types, perfectionists, high achievers, those who identify as highly sensitive, and those who suffer from chronic illness.
I specialize in complex trauma, phobias/anxiety, and chronic illness for adults and teens. Many of my clients are recovering from developmental trauma, learning to soothe overactive nervous systems, and hoping to identify and express their needs in a new way. My work is depth oriented, empowering, feminist, compassion focused, and client-centered. I work well with artists and creative types, perfectionists, high achievers, those who identify as highly sensitive, and those who suffer from chronic illness.
(424) 622-8418 View (424) 622-8418
Photo of Patricia A. Ruddy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Patricia A. Ruddy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
I truly have a gift of providing empathy and rapport and helping individuals acknowledge their pain and move toward solutions through personal and spiritual growth.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been providing psychotherapy for almost thirty years with all ages and all different populations. My treatment modality encompasses an electic style based on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Brief/Solution Focused Therapy. An integral part of my work with clients includes establishing a collaborative and therapeutic alliance, identifying goals, and developing solutions. I empower clients to identify their resilience, resourcefulness and systems of support where I guide clients through the process of discovering their aspirations and developing solutions.
I truly have a gift of providing empathy and rapport and helping individuals acknowledge their pain and move toward solutions through personal and spiritual growth.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been providing psychotherapy for almost thirty years with all ages and all different populations. My treatment modality encompasses an electic style based on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Brief/Solution Focused Therapy. An integral part of my work with clients includes establishing a collaborative and therapeutic alliance, identifying goals, and developing solutions. I empower clients to identify their resilience, resourcefulness and systems of support where I guide clients through the process of discovering their aspirations and developing solutions.
(805) 244-5639 View (805) 244-5639
Photo of Roger William Coger, Psychologist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Roger William Coger
Psychologist, PhD, P, H, D
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362  (Online Only)
I have had extensive experience with families that have ADHD and communication problems and have worked with medical teams for treatment of chronic pain and disabilities.
I have a wide range of training and experience working to help people with depression, anxiety, and problems with attention, concentration, and organization. This includes children with learning and behavior problems and adults with social interaction difficulties. Soldiers Project to treat soldiers returning from deployment, with deployment related problems, and their families. My primary goal is to aid people in finding their way to a happier life by identifying emotional and cognitive barriers.
I have had extensive experience with families that have ADHD and communication problems and have worked with medical teams for treatment of chronic pain and disabilities.
I have a wide range of training and experience working to help people with depression, anxiety, and problems with attention, concentration, and organization. This includes children with learning and behavior problems and adults with social interaction difficulties. Soldiers Project to treat soldiers returning from deployment, with deployment related problems, and their families. My primary goal is to aid people in finding their way to a happier life by identifying emotional and cognitive barriers.
(805) 526-4444 View (805) 526-4444
Photo of Bruce Whitney, Psychologist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Bruce Whitney
Psychologist, PhD, QME
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
EVENING APPTS. I chose a PhD in Clinical Psychology in order to help individuals suffering with the emotional pain and upheaval that life's ups and downs can bring. I enjoy a close working relationship and collaborative trust based connection with my patients, which brings the reward of personal growth and stimulates the healing process. With more than 28 years in the mental health profession, and 25+ years in private practice, I continue working to expand my education and experience to include a wide variety of psychotherapeutical skill sets.
EVENING APPTS. I chose a PhD in Clinical Psychology in order to help individuals suffering with the emotional pain and upheaval that life's ups and downs can bring. I enjoy a close working relationship and collaborative trust based connection with my patients, which brings the reward of personal growth and stimulates the healing process. With more than 28 years in the mental health profession, and 25+ years in private practice, I continue working to expand my education and experience to include a wide variety of psychotherapeutical skill sets.
(805) 317-4460 View (805) 317-4460
Scott Fleishman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
I also have a speciality with Pain Management.
I believe in evaluating each person for who they are, and examining how their own life story has contributed to their challenges and problems in the present. It is important to look at the stressors/triggers that are making each person react the way they do, and develop new perspectives and better choices for the present and the future. I help each person identify self-sabotaging actions and in developing a better course for coping and living. Additionally, I believe it is important to learn how to continue to grow within yourself and in all types of relationships.
I also have a speciality with Pain Management.
I believe in evaluating each person for who they are, and examining how their own life story has contributed to their challenges and problems in the present. It is important to look at the stressors/triggers that are making each person react the way they do, and develop new perspectives and better choices for the present and the future. I help each person identify self-sabotaging actions and in developing a better course for coping and living. Additionally, I believe it is important to learn how to continue to grow within yourself and in all types of relationships.
(818) 293-8134 View (818) 293-8134
Photo of Annette Lorraine Hernandez in Thousand Oaks, CA
Annette Lorraine Hernandez
CHT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Through hypnotherapy or Reiki you can find self improvement. Stress relief, weight loss, fears/phobias and letting go of grief are some of the issues I help clients with. I also work in conjunction with doctors to help with medical issues such as pain relief, dentist care, etc. Hypnosis helps you access the larger part of your mind (the subconscious) responsible for automatic behavior. Through suggestions you can achieve transformation by letting go of limiting beliefs. Some clients prefer Japanese Reiki energy sessions which help balance the body mentally, physically and emotionally.
Through hypnotherapy or Reiki you can find self improvement. Stress relief, weight loss, fears/phobias and letting go of grief are some of the issues I help clients with. I also work in conjunction with doctors to help with medical issues such as pain relief, dentist care, etc. Hypnosis helps you access the larger part of your mind (the subconscious) responsible for automatic behavior. Through suggestions you can achieve transformation by letting go of limiting beliefs. Some clients prefer Japanese Reiki energy sessions which help balance the body mentally, physically and emotionally.
(951) 666-5760 View (951) 666-5760
Photo of Linda K. Laffey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Linda K. Laffey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Would you like to take control of your life? With the global pandemic at hand and things changing on a daily basis, taking control seems nearly impossible these days. We can. Do you repeatedly find yourself in relationships that hurt? Does pain from your past keep you from enjoying your life now? If so, I can help you learn to stop the pattern and start enjoying life. Change is possible, and you do not have to go on living in pain. We can work together to identify what is preventing you from living your life the way you have always wanted to, and with my training and experience, I can help you get where you want to go quickly.
Would you like to take control of your life? With the global pandemic at hand and things changing on a daily basis, taking control seems nearly impossible these days. We can. Do you repeatedly find yourself in relationships that hurt? Does pain from your past keep you from enjoying your life now? If so, I can help you learn to stop the pattern and start enjoying life. Change is possible, and you do not have to go on living in pain. We can work together to identify what is preventing you from living your life the way you have always wanted to, and with my training and experience, I can help you get where you want to go quickly.
(805) 375-5860 View (805) 375-5860
Photo of Casey J. Simon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Casey J. Simon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Waitlist for new clients
When it comes to mental illness, treatment and outlook can feel daunting. My therapeutic approach is developed on an individual basis with an emphasis on reshaping personality organization in order to create long-lasting change. I truly enjoy assisting my patients in defeating their symptoms and regaining control of their lives. I have experience working with an array of individuals, ranging from young children to adults suffering from a multitude of mental health issues. Aside from my private practice, I work as a group therapist in an intensive outpatient program with individuals just released from emergency psychiatric care.
When it comes to mental illness, treatment and outlook can feel daunting. My therapeutic approach is developed on an individual basis with an emphasis on reshaping personality organization in order to create long-lasting change. I truly enjoy assisting my patients in defeating their symptoms and regaining control of their lives. I have experience working with an array of individuals, ranging from young children to adults suffering from a multitude of mental health issues. Aside from my private practice, I work as a group therapist in an intensive outpatient program with individuals just released from emergency psychiatric care.
(805) 716-6072 View (805) 716-6072
Photo of Insight Neuropsychology, Psychologist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Insight Neuropsychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
My staff and I specialize in providing neuropsychological assessments of traumatic brain injury, dementia, stroke, neurological illness, and ADHD/learning disability.
Welcome, our practice at Insight Neuropsychology specializes in personalized neuropsychological assessment and treatment services to assist you in promoting your cognitive health. Our goal is to help you learn about how your brain is functioning, as insight is the first step in learning how to improve your mental functions. Neuropsychological assessment is one of the most sensitive instruments for detecting subtle cognitive deficits that are not obvious on MRI's or other brain scans, but which can have a large impact on a person's daily functioning. In addition to assessment, we also provide supportive counseling for patients and caregivers.
My staff and I specialize in providing neuropsychological assessments of traumatic brain injury, dementia, stroke, neurological illness, and ADHD/learning disability.
Welcome, our practice at Insight Neuropsychology specializes in personalized neuropsychological assessment and treatment services to assist you in promoting your cognitive health. Our goal is to help you learn about how your brain is functioning, as insight is the first step in learning how to improve your mental functions. Neuropsychological assessment is one of the most sensitive instruments for detecting subtle cognitive deficits that are not obvious on MRI's or other brain scans, but which can have a large impact on a person's daily functioning. In addition to assessment, we also provide supportive counseling for patients and caregivers.
(805) 467-7062 View (805) 467-7062
Photo of Tracy Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Tracy Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Through our work, you'll learn to move beyond the harmful pain of your past so that it no longer negatively impacts your present or future.
You're sitting in your car in the parking lot at work, trying to hold it together. A moment ago, you were in the office, going about your business, doing fine. Then the panic hit. A momentary flash of traumatic memory, and you're right back where you were. Your heart pounds furiously, perspiration pours from you, your throat constricts and chest tightens as you struggle to breathe. At least you were able to excuse yourself before anyone noticed your distress. So now you're sitting here, hiding in a parked car, wondering if this is just how your life will be from now on. Will I ever be free of my painful past? It feels hopeless.
Through our work, you'll learn to move beyond the harmful pain of your past so that it no longer negatively impacts your present or future.
You're sitting in your car in the parking lot at work, trying to hold it together. A moment ago, you were in the office, going about your business, doing fine. Then the panic hit. A momentary flash of traumatic memory, and you're right back where you were. Your heart pounds furiously, perspiration pours from you, your throat constricts and chest tightens as you struggle to breathe. At least you were able to excuse yourself before anyone noticed your distress. So now you're sitting here, hiding in a parked car, wondering if this is just how your life will be from now on. Will I ever be free of my painful past? It feels hopeless.
(818) 946-0680 View (818) 946-0680
Photo of Eric Bellman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Eric Bellman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Eric Bellman LCSW the Right Therapy -I am dedicated to the right approach in treating BPD and PTSD pain management and addictions. -Therapy is also useful for other complex situations people face from mental illness to life transitions and creative blocks Therapy has many uses from the most serious challenges of emotional disorders to the creative techniques for overcoming mental blocks by helping to channel emotionally regulated energy into a creative life. The right teamwork and approach helps everyone; -individuals of all ages -married couples - families and people undergoing personal life transitions in our fast changing world
Eric Bellman LCSW the Right Therapy -I am dedicated to the right approach in treating BPD and PTSD pain management and addictions. -Therapy is also useful for other complex situations people face from mental illness to life transitions and creative blocks Therapy has many uses from the most serious challenges of emotional disorders to the creative techniques for overcoming mental blocks by helping to channel emotionally regulated energy into a creative life. The right teamwork and approach helps everyone; -individuals of all ages -married couples - families and people undergoing personal life transitions in our fast changing world
(805) 351-4357 View (805) 351-4357

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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.