Photo of Sammi Rosenfeld, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Sammi Rosenfeld
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, DC LPC, MD LCPC, MSEd, CCTP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
Waitlist for new clients
Some of my specialities include anxiety and depression, chronic pain, ASD, ADHD, self-esteem, eating disorders, issues of identity and more.
I am a mental health and school counselor passionate about supporting the growth of children and young adults. I am experienced with both school-age children, young adults, and adults. I have also spent a lifetime in the world of professional dance and the creative arts. My experience in dance and the body highly influences my therapeutic lens. I view integration of body and mind through multi-sensory modalities as integral to client growth. I take an integrative approach to my work; in one session we may talk, play, draw, explore the sand tray, or move. Some moments may be more directive and some may be client-led.
Some of my specialities include anxiety and depression, chronic pain, ASD, ADHD, self-esteem, eating disorders, issues of identity and more.
I am a mental health and school counselor passionate about supporting the growth of children and young adults. I am experienced with both school-age children, young adults, and adults. I have also spent a lifetime in the world of professional dance and the creative arts. My experience in dance and the body highly influences my therapeutic lens. I view integration of body and mind through multi-sensory modalities as integral to client growth. I take an integrative approach to my work; in one session we may talk, play, draw, explore the sand tray, or move. Some moments may be more directive and some may be client-led.
(202) 935-7358 View (202) 935-7358
Photo of Rachel Noble, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Rachel Noble
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
My writing and presentations on topics such as resilience, anxiety management, chronic pain, and intimacy appear in outlets such as The Washington Post, AARP, and Inova Health Systems.
Please find more info at my website: noblepractice.com. I have unique experience working with people who struggle with complex medical concerns, chronic pain, and postpartum depression. About half of my clients fall into this category and the other half are struggling with anxiety, depression, or just feeling stuck in life.
My writing and presentations on topics such as resilience, anxiety management, chronic pain, and intimacy appear in outlets such as The Washington Post, AARP, and Inova Health Systems.
Please find more info at my website: noblepractice.com. I have unique experience working with people who struggle with complex medical concerns, chronic pain, and postpartum depression. About half of my clients fall into this category and the other half are struggling with anxiety, depression, or just feeling stuck in life.
(202) 900-6633 View (202) 900-6633
Photo of Safoura Moraveji, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Safoura Moraveji
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20004  (Online Only)
Safoura Moraveji is a seasoned licensed psychotherapist who has been practicing in Maryland and the District of Columbia since 1988. Safoura's most current work has focused primarily on adults experiencing major life transitions such as divorce, family, career moves, and illness. After graduating from the University of Maryland in College Park with her master’s degree in social work, Safoura turned her attention toward psychoanalytic psychotherapy and studies in Gestalt-Existential psychotherapy. Her specialized focuses include working with adults who suffer from severe mood and panic disorders, depression, and anxiety.
Safoura Moraveji is a seasoned licensed psychotherapist who has been practicing in Maryland and the District of Columbia since 1988. Safoura's most current work has focused primarily on adults experiencing major life transitions such as divorce, family, career moves, and illness. After graduating from the University of Maryland in College Park with her master’s degree in social work, Safoura turned her attention toward psychoanalytic psychotherapy and studies in Gestalt-Existential psychotherapy. Her specialized focuses include working with adults who suffer from severe mood and panic disorders, depression, and anxiety.
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Photo of Sarah S. Berger, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Sarah S. Berger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
Therapy is often about change - changing oneself or parts of one's life. Taking steps towards change requires tremendous courage, but many people find the rewards of this process well worth the effort. A supportive, helpful guide can go a long way towards making productive changes and that is where I come in. Support is my primary role; my secondary role is to help individuals identify thoughts or behaviors that are limiting progress in one's life. In addition to helping with a wide range of common symptoms like stress, anxiety, depression, I specialize in health psychology (coping with illness).
Therapy is often about change - changing oneself or parts of one's life. Taking steps towards change requires tremendous courage, but many people find the rewards of this process well worth the effort. A supportive, helpful guide can go a long way towards making productive changes and that is where I come in. Support is my primary role; my secondary role is to help individuals identify thoughts or behaviors that are limiting progress in one's life. In addition to helping with a wide range of common symptoms like stress, anxiety, depression, I specialize in health psychology (coping with illness).
(240) 847-3693 View (240) 847-3693
Photo of Annie Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Annie Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
In my practice, I help teens and adults work through problems with insomnia, anxiety, trauma, and chronic pain.
Are you lying in bed at night with racing thoughts? Do you have trouble letting go of stress from your day? Are you having trouble falling asleep or do you wake up multiple times overnight? Are you replaying old memories from the past? Or maybe you have had chronic pain for years and you can't find relief. If you are struggling with insomnia, anxiety, trauma, or chronic pain, I am glad you're here. Dealing with these problems can be challenging but you can heal if you have the right tools. I use clinically proven techniques like EMDR, CBT for insomnia, Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), and other brain-based strategies.
In my practice, I help teens and adults work through problems with insomnia, anxiety, trauma, and chronic pain.
Are you lying in bed at night with racing thoughts? Do you have trouble letting go of stress from your day? Are you having trouble falling asleep or do you wake up multiple times overnight? Are you replaying old memories from the past? Or maybe you have had chronic pain for years and you can't find relief. If you are struggling with insomnia, anxiety, trauma, or chronic pain, I am glad you're here. Dealing with these problems can be challenging but you can heal if you have the right tools. I use clinically proven techniques like EMDR, CBT for insomnia, Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), and other brain-based strategies.
(301) 259-3127 View (301) 259-3127
Photo of Carissa L Strohecker Hannum, Counselor in Washington, DC
Carissa L Strohecker Hannum
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I have a special interest working with individuals with chronic pain, life transitions, and grief/loss.
Welcome, I truly believe that therapy is a brave and courageous choice. I strive to create a warm, empathetic, and safe environment for each client that chooses to work with me. I have a special expertise working with both adolescents and adults with mood disorders. Our relationship will be used as an element of change. Often, I will utilize aspects of our relationship to highlight barriers to change and provide a warm and directive approach to push you towards growth. My approach within our therapeutic relationship tends to be more collaborative and I commonly use interventions including mindfulness, CBT, DBT and attachment theory.
I have a special interest working with individuals with chronic pain, life transitions, and grief/loss.
Welcome, I truly believe that therapy is a brave and courageous choice. I strive to create a warm, empathetic, and safe environment for each client that chooses to work with me. I have a special expertise working with both adolescents and adults with mood disorders. Our relationship will be used as an element of change. Often, I will utilize aspects of our relationship to highlight barriers to change and provide a warm and directive approach to push you towards growth. My approach within our therapeutic relationship tends to be more collaborative and I commonly use interventions including mindfulness, CBT, DBT and attachment theory.
(202) 410-6883 View (202) 410-6883
Photo of Eduardo Cortina, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Eduardo Cortina
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
Are you suffering from the effects of PTSD, anxiety, depression, sudden loss, and/or chronic pain? If so body-oriented psychotherapy may help facilitate your recovery. By working to address the root causes of nervous system imbalance, a body-psychotherapy approach can empower you with tools and skills to re-negotiate and resolve difficult and traumatic experiences. My approach in therapy is client-centered and my work is just to facilitate and provide the optimal conditions for healing to take place. I also hope to impart knowledge and skills for people to work with themselves effectively outside of therapy.
Are you suffering from the effects of PTSD, anxiety, depression, sudden loss, and/or chronic pain? If so body-oriented psychotherapy may help facilitate your recovery. By working to address the root causes of nervous system imbalance, a body-psychotherapy approach can empower you with tools and skills to re-negotiate and resolve difficult and traumatic experiences. My approach in therapy is client-centered and my work is just to facilitate and provide the optimal conditions for healing to take place. I also hope to impart knowledge and skills for people to work with themselves effectively outside of therapy.
(202) 933-6934 View (202) 933-6934
Photo of Carole Stovall, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Carole Stovall
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
Do you want a better life with more choices and success- every day? I am honored to work with clients to help them address life issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, medical illness & pain, relationship and general life issues to better live the life they chose. I work with you in a collaborative and interactive way. We work to help you understand what has happened in your life, but more importantly, how to address and create the meaningful changes, the life success, and happiness, that is most important to you to have your best life.
Do you want a better life with more choices and success- every day? I am honored to work with clients to help them address life issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, medical illness & pain, relationship and general life issues to better live the life they chose. I work with you in a collaborative and interactive way. We work to help you understand what has happened in your life, but more importantly, how to address and create the meaningful changes, the life success, and happiness, that is most important to you to have your best life.
(202) 759-2293 View (202) 759-2293
Photo of Dr. Shondolyn Sanders, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Shondolyn Sanders
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
I have experience in treating adults & adolescents with a range of mental health and medical challenges, including sexual trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship stress, self-esteem, chronic pain & insomnia.
Have you been considering seeking help from a mental health professional? Or maybe you’ve decided to give therapy another try. The foundation of an effective therapeutic relationship begins with finding a therapist with whom you have a good fit and connection. I will meet you with compassion and empathy, while also guiding you towards self-exploration and increased awareness. I believe that we navigate life and view the world through a lens influenced by our society and culture. I will support you in your process of becoming more of the person you want to be and help you commit to actions that align with your desired goals.
I have experience in treating adults & adolescents with a range of mental health and medical challenges, including sexual trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship stress, self-esteem, chronic pain & insomnia.
Have you been considering seeking help from a mental health professional? Or maybe you’ve decided to give therapy another try. The foundation of an effective therapeutic relationship begins with finding a therapist with whom you have a good fit and connection. I will meet you with compassion and empathy, while also guiding you towards self-exploration and increased awareness. I believe that we navigate life and view the world through a lens influenced by our society and culture. I will support you in your process of becoming more of the person you want to be and help you commit to actions that align with your desired goals.
(844) 775-0048 x7 View (844) 775-0048 x7
Photo of Gwyneth Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Gwyneth Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20012
ACT, CFT, and FAP have demonstrated efficacy for depression, generalized anxiety/panic disorder, OCD, substance abuse, chronic illness, gender/sexual identity issues and eating disorders.
I am committed to providing effective, empirically tested, affordable treatment. My approach is honest, collaborative, interactive, and nonjudgmental. Often in life we buy into stories about ourselves that seem to protect us but ultimately prevent us from moving toward the things we value. We get caught up in judging whether a behavior is good or bad, rather than asking if it is effective in creating the life that we envision.
ACT, CFT, and FAP have demonstrated efficacy for depression, generalized anxiety/panic disorder, OCD, substance abuse, chronic illness, gender/sexual identity issues and eating disorders.
I am committed to providing effective, empirically tested, affordable treatment. My approach is honest, collaborative, interactive, and nonjudgmental. Often in life we buy into stories about ourselves that seem to protect us but ultimately prevent us from moving toward the things we value. We get caught up in judging whether a behavior is good or bad, rather than asking if it is effective in creating the life that we envision.
(202) 800-1905 View (202) 800-1905
Photo of Margie Stohner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Margie Stohner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
With over 50 years of psychotherapy experience, I specialize in anxiety management, relationship issues, depression, medical illness-related concerns and chronic insomnia.
With over 50 years of psychotherapy experience, I specialize in anxiety management, relationship issues, depression, medical illness-related concerns and chronic insomnia.
(202) 656-4943 View (202) 656-4943
Photo of Nancy F. Hensler, PhD, PLLC, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Nancy F. Hensler, PhD, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Through 25 years' experience in university, hospital and outpatient settings, I have developed specializations in Trauma & Abuse, Sexual & Relationship Violence, Women's Empowerment, Mindful Living, & the College Experience. Trained by a pioneer in complex trauma treatment, I assist survivors regain their sense of security and self. My past career research informs my continuing passion for mentoring women in their multiple roles and across their lifespans. I help individuals, couples & groups manage stress, anxiety, depression, and pain; navigate major life events and losses; & repair/strengthen their relationships.
Through 25 years' experience in university, hospital and outpatient settings, I have developed specializations in Trauma & Abuse, Sexual & Relationship Violence, Women's Empowerment, Mindful Living, & the College Experience. Trained by a pioneer in complex trauma treatment, I assist survivors regain their sense of security and self. My past career research informs my continuing passion for mentoring women in their multiple roles and across their lifespans. I help individuals, couples & groups manage stress, anxiety, depression, and pain; navigate major life events and losses; & repair/strengthen their relationships.
(202) 760-4678 View (202) 760-4678
Photo of Tiffany Jerinsky, Counselor in Washington, DC
Tiffany Jerinsky
Counselor, MS, LGPC, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Pain and suffering do not discriminate.
I am a counselor with years of experience working with clients who are managing depression, anxiety, and chronic illnesses. I have specialized training in working with those who experience interpersonal violence and sexual assault/abuse. When an individual survives a trauma or hardship it can be extremely difficult to cope and obtain fulfillment. Whatever the struggle is I believe in helping clients identify their strengths in order to overcome the obstacle.
Pain and suffering do not discriminate.
I am a counselor with years of experience working with clients who are managing depression, anxiety, and chronic illnesses. I have specialized training in working with those who experience interpersonal violence and sexual assault/abuse. When an individual survives a trauma or hardship it can be extremely difficult to cope and obtain fulfillment. Whatever the struggle is I believe in helping clients identify their strengths in order to overcome the obstacle.
(202) 301-8321 View (202) 301-8321
Photo of Jade Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Jade Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MHSA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I specialize in living with illness and/or caregiving, experiencing grief, navigating relationships, dealing with anxiety and coping with unhealed past traumas.
Life can present you with difficult situations which are hard to process and move past. These challenges are not on your timeline and affect everything. Having worked in many healthcare settings, I am familiar navigating life-changing events and grief. I understand the territory of encountering loss, coping with trauma, the complexity of the medical system and living with illness. Together we will face any changes, fears, anxiety and emotions you are experiencing, allowing you to gain more grounding and peace. I will work with you from an integrative, holistic approach to determine together what is needed for your coping, healing and self-care.
I specialize in living with illness and/or caregiving, experiencing grief, navigating relationships, dealing with anxiety and coping with unhealed past traumas.
Life can present you with difficult situations which are hard to process and move past. These challenges are not on your timeline and affect everything. Having worked in many healthcare settings, I am familiar navigating life-changing events and grief. I understand the territory of encountering loss, coping with trauma, the complexity of the medical system and living with illness. Together we will face any changes, fears, anxiety and emotions you are experiencing, allowing you to gain more grounding and peace. I will work with you from an integrative, holistic approach to determine together what is needed for your coping, healing and self-care.
(510) 681-0947 View (510) 681-0947
Photo of Nicole White-Samuels, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Nicole White-Samuels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
She is certified in Brainspotting assisting her clients to access, process and overcome unresolved trauma, negative emotions, and pain.
To book with me click on ‘my website’ or go to URL: joinuplift.co/provider/therapy/district-of-columbia-nicole-white-samuels-091123 Nicole White-Samuels has worked in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, residential and private practice.
She is certified in Brainspotting assisting her clients to access, process and overcome unresolved trauma, negative emotions, and pain.
To book with me click on ‘my website’ or go to URL: joinuplift.co/provider/therapy/district-of-columbia-nicole-white-samuels-091123 Nicole White-Samuels has worked in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, residential and private practice.
(888) 380-2028 x1 View (888) 380-2028 x1
Photo of Jonathan Farber, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Jonathan Farber
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
My journey from couch potato to national triathlon champion contributes to my work: balancing effort with rest, coping with pain and injury, food issues, sustaining motivation.
I work with individuals and couples, as well as children, in both DC and Chapel Hill. I do best with adults who are educated or reflective: many are scientists, artists, health and business professionals, or psychotherapists, and some are not pursuing conventional achievement.Some see me for family or work problems, some for help dealing with a chronic health issue or a loss, some to change longstanding emotional and interpersonal patterns involving anxiety, anger, or intimacy. We may try quick and simple approaches first, because sometimes they work, but if not we can go more deeply into the individual's unique personal narrative.
My journey from couch potato to national triathlon champion contributes to my work: balancing effort with rest, coping with pain and injury, food issues, sustaining motivation.
I work with individuals and couples, as well as children, in both DC and Chapel Hill. I do best with adults who are educated or reflective: many are scientists, artists, health and business professionals, or psychotherapists, and some are not pursuing conventional achievement.Some see me for family or work problems, some for help dealing with a chronic health issue or a loss, some to change longstanding emotional and interpersonal patterns involving anxiety, anger, or intimacy. We may try quick and simple approaches first, because sometimes they work, but if not we can go more deeply into the individual's unique personal narrative.
(919) 351-1352 View (919) 351-1352
Photo of Stephen Holland, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Stephen Holland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I am Founder and Director of the Capital Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Since 2003, the Institute has been a leading provider of research-proven treatments and compassionate care. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for a number of problems, including: depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), hoarding, phobias, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, personality disorders, and relationship problems. Studies find most patients in CBT have significant reduction in symptoms and distress.
I am Founder and Director of the Capital Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Since 2003, the Institute has been a leading provider of research-proven treatments and compassionate care. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for a number of problems, including: depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), hoarding, phobias, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, personality disorders, and relationship problems. Studies find most patients in CBT have significant reduction in symptoms and distress.
(202) 759-2884 View (202) 759-2884
Photo of Lois Ann Clinton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lois Ann Clinton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
I'll help you with anxiety, depression, ptsd, chronic pain, grief, relationship issues, lack of motivation, distractibility, fatigue, and other mental health problems.
My passion is teaching people how to realize their potential. I can help you let go of old patterns and fears and develop more of your SELF. I bring 30 years of experience helping people face their challenges in more constructive ways. Adversity can unleash creativity and new parts of your SELF rather than leave you cynical, isolated and exhausted. I have significant expertise in treating trauma and other mental health issues that perpetuate unhealthy patterns. With an integrative, gentle approach, I will support you in building your own internal and external resources to make vital changes in your life.
I'll help you with anxiety, depression, ptsd, chronic pain, grief, relationship issues, lack of motivation, distractibility, fatigue, and other mental health problems.
My passion is teaching people how to realize their potential. I can help you let go of old patterns and fears and develop more of your SELF. I bring 30 years of experience helping people face their challenges in more constructive ways. Adversity can unleash creativity and new parts of your SELF rather than leave you cynical, isolated and exhausted. I have significant expertise in treating trauma and other mental health issues that perpetuate unhealthy patterns. With an integrative, gentle approach, I will support you in building your own internal and external resources to make vital changes in your life.
(202) 831-2079 View (202) 831-2079
Photo of Mali G Parke - Life Coachmediator in Washington, DC
Mali G Parke - Life Coachmediator
Coach, CPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I invite you to dive deep to your 'core' (feelings, values, stories, beliefs, held pain .
Are you longing for vitality, a sense of choice or self-love/confidence in your life? Are you looking for authenticity, courageous conversations, resonance or deep trust repair in your relationship/s? Are you hoping to find how to live a meaningful and impactful life? I support authentic, compassionate and empowered relating to yourself and others with courageous journeying opening your full expression, connection and power for change. My clients are individuals, partners, co-parents, educators, caregivers or leaders, teams or groups who want to achieve greater trust, connection, resonance, collaboration and systemic resilience.
I invite you to dive deep to your 'core' (feelings, values, stories, beliefs, held pain .
Are you longing for vitality, a sense of choice or self-love/confidence in your life? Are you looking for authenticity, courageous conversations, resonance or deep trust repair in your relationship/s? Are you hoping to find how to live a meaningful and impactful life? I support authentic, compassionate and empowered relating to yourself and others with courageous journeying opening your full expression, connection and power for change. My clients are individuals, partners, co-parents, educators, caregivers or leaders, teams or groups who want to achieve greater trust, connection, resonance, collaboration and systemic resilience.
(202) 760-2780 View (202) 760-2780
Photo of Roberta Rothstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Roberta Rothstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Do you feel stuck? Maybe you can't seem to shake the blues. Maybe it’s a loss. Or you can’t make a crucial decision. Perhaps jittery moods have reduced your functioning. Or you’re unable to control unhealthy behavior. Maybe every conversation with your spouse becomes an argument. Feel more confident, improve your relationships, move from illness to health, reconnect with your creativity, learn valuable coping skills, take control of your life and just feel better. I can help you move forward through obstacles, uncovering your true potential. Our work helps you feel resilient, so you can set and reach your goals.
Do you feel stuck? Maybe you can't seem to shake the blues. Maybe it’s a loss. Or you can’t make a crucial decision. Perhaps jittery moods have reduced your functioning. Or you’re unable to control unhealthy behavior. Maybe every conversation with your spouse becomes an argument. Feel more confident, improve your relationships, move from illness to health, reconnect with your creativity, learn valuable coping skills, take control of your life and just feel better. I can help you move forward through obstacles, uncovering your true potential. Our work helps you feel resilient, so you can set and reach your goals.
(202) 618-4387 View (202) 618-4387
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.