Chronic Pain Therapists in Jacksonville, FL

Photo of Dr. Stephanie Milne, Psychologist in Jacksonville, FL
Dr. Stephanie Milne
Psychologist, PsyD, BCB, BCB-HRV, CPM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32207
My specialties are brain injury, complex medical problems, chronic pain, anxiety, stress management, life transitions, disabilities, and personal and professional development.
Most of the time people manage their lives very well. Sometimes, they need some direction or focus to get back on the right path. I take the time to get to know my patients, to know what matters to them and then use that information to help motivate, guide, and inspire them to make the changes they need to make in order to live their life committed to their goals and values. It is often not an easy road, but together, great things can happen!
My specialties are brain injury, complex medical problems, chronic pain, anxiety, stress management, life transitions, disabilities, and personal and professional development.
Most of the time people manage their lives very well. Sometimes, they need some direction or focus to get back on the right path. I take the time to get to know my patients, to know what matters to them and then use that information to help motivate, guide, and inspire them to make the changes they need to make in order to live their life committed to their goals and values. It is often not an easy road, but together, great things can happen!
(904) 685-8756 View (904) 685-8756
Photo of Letha Page, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Letha Page
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP, QS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
You want to change and I believe anyone can learn how to create and foster a meaningful life. My work in therapy will be collaborative, educational, strengths-based, and solution-focused to tailor to your unique needs. Together we will work on life transitions, emotional stress, relationship struggles, or discord from chronic illness or pain. I provide interactive sessions to support and guide you when you are struggling with personal life challenges and complex relationship issues. I believe you know when it’s time to look for assistance to promote the change you want in your life. Let me be part of that journey with you.
You want to change and I believe anyone can learn how to create and foster a meaningful life. My work in therapy will be collaborative, educational, strengths-based, and solution-focused to tailor to your unique needs. Together we will work on life transitions, emotional stress, relationship struggles, or discord from chronic illness or pain. I provide interactive sessions to support and guide you when you are struggling with personal life challenges and complex relationship issues. I believe you know when it’s time to look for assistance to promote the change you want in your life. Let me be part of that journey with you.
(904) 368-6549 View (904) 368-6549
Photo of Jennifer Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Jennifer Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223  (Online Only)
Feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Feeling numb or just not yourself? Feeling stuck in your life or relationships? I offer a safe environment in which you can gain support and guidance in navigating these difficult challenges. I am passionate about helping you to find solutions to your problems and build strong and healthy relationships in your life. I'm here to help you get through the tough times and feel like yourself again. As a therapist who specializes in relationships, I will help you discover ways to strengthen your connections with others or find healing from the pain that can often come from those connections.
Feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Feeling numb or just not yourself? Feeling stuck in your life or relationships? I offer a safe environment in which you can gain support and guidance in navigating these difficult challenges. I am passionate about helping you to find solutions to your problems and build strong and healthy relationships in your life. I'm here to help you get through the tough times and feel like yourself again. As a therapist who specializes in relationships, I will help you discover ways to strengthen your connections with others or find healing from the pain that can often come from those connections.
(904) 295-1780 View (904) 295-1780
Photo of Polly A Charette, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Polly A Charette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, ACSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
As a licensed psychotherapist for over 20 years, I specialize in PTSD, anxiety, chronic pain, brain injury, somatic symptoms, disturbance from memories, small and large traumas, personal growth, Adult ADD and mood disorders.
Every person goes through a period in their life where they desire to make changes, face difficulties, find the courage to challenge themselves, or simply find that their old ways are no longer serving them in their life. I take the time to understand each client in order to tailor their treatment to their uniques circumstances. In my practice I thoroughly believe that a connection between therapist and client is the foundation for healing and change. It is an honor to provide the services that I do. My goal is to provide a nonjudgmental safe place for healing.
As a licensed psychotherapist for over 20 years, I specialize in PTSD, anxiety, chronic pain, brain injury, somatic symptoms, disturbance from memories, small and large traumas, personal growth, Adult ADD and mood disorders.
Every person goes through a period in their life where they desire to make changes, face difficulties, find the courage to challenge themselves, or simply find that their old ways are no longer serving them in their life. I take the time to understand each client in order to tailor their treatment to their uniques circumstances. In my practice I thoroughly believe that a connection between therapist and client is the foundation for healing and change. It is an honor to provide the services that I do. My goal is to provide a nonjudgmental safe place for healing.
(904) 674-3747 View (904) 674-3747
Photo of Melissa C LaManna, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Melissa C LaManna
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32204  (Online Only)
It is my professional and personal belief that people can transcend most any pain with the right support from others, as well as by developing greater insight, emotional resilience, and self-compassion.
Asking for help from a friend or loved one can be difficult, especially when you are struggling with feelings of sadness or anxiety. How do I share something so personal with someone else? What will they think? The obstacles we encounter may seem overwhelming at times, particularly if paired with feelings of sadness or anxiety. But these feelings are very normal and indicative of struggle, whether it be conflict with a loved one or a pattern of undue self-criticism. Counseling can provide a therapeutic space for individuals to share their problems, to discover healthier ways of coping and to develop deeper relations with others.
It is my professional and personal belief that people can transcend most any pain with the right support from others, as well as by developing greater insight, emotional resilience, and self-compassion.
Asking for help from a friend or loved one can be difficult, especially when you are struggling with feelings of sadness or anxiety. How do I share something so personal with someone else? What will they think? The obstacles we encounter may seem overwhelming at times, particularly if paired with feelings of sadness or anxiety. But these feelings are very normal and indicative of struggle, whether it be conflict with a loved one or a pattern of undue self-criticism. Counseling can provide a therapeutic space for individuals to share their problems, to discover healthier ways of coping and to develop deeper relations with others.
(904) 977-6746 View (904) 977-6746
Photo of LaWanda Thomas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
LaWanda Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32258  (Online Only)
I specialize in premarital counseling, marriage & family therapy, grief, emotional wounds, chronic illness, and seniors' family conflict.
Life is a GIFT. I believe in this life, we all have special assignments. It is with honor, gratitude, and appreciation that I have accepted my assignment of helping others via Nursing and Counseling. With the world in such chaos, it is a challenge to navigate our spiritual, physical, and emotional health and wholeness. It is my aim to connect with my clients at the point of their hurt. Clients are usually hurting or struggling with childhood emotional trauma, grief (loss of a loved one, a relationship, or loss of themselves), depression, overwhelming life events, anxiety, or self-esteem issues.
I specialize in premarital counseling, marriage & family therapy, grief, emotional wounds, chronic illness, and seniors' family conflict.
Life is a GIFT. I believe in this life, we all have special assignments. It is with honor, gratitude, and appreciation that I have accepted my assignment of helping others via Nursing and Counseling. With the world in such chaos, it is a challenge to navigate our spiritual, physical, and emotional health and wholeness. It is my aim to connect with my clients at the point of their hurt. Clients are usually hurting or struggling with childhood emotional trauma, grief (loss of a loved one, a relationship, or loss of themselves), depression, overwhelming life events, anxiety, or self-esteem issues.
(904) 694-5385 View (904) 694-5385
Photo of Walter McClinton RMHCI, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Jacksonville, FL
Walter McClinton RMHCI
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32258
Ideally, I want the client to be willing to peel back those layers of pain through understanding, believing truly in themselves along with what they are looking to work towards. Painting a better version of themselves and their plans to accomplish it.
Ideally, I want the client to be willing to peel back those layers of pain through understanding, believing truly in themselves along with what they are looking to work towards. Painting a better version of themselves and their plans to accomplish it.
(904) 966-4707 View (904) 966-4707
Photo of Marie Greco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Marie Greco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32218
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in the state of Florida, with over 10 years of experience working with children, teens and families. My passion is helping children and adolescents reach their goals, feel better, and improve short term and long term functioning. My focus is working with individuals who have experienced a trauma(s), have trouble adjusting to life changes, display behavioral problems at home or in school, live with a chronic illness, struggle with substance abuse, have low self esteem, anxiety, depression and/or difficulty regulating their moods.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in the state of Florida, with over 10 years of experience working with children, teens and families. My passion is helping children and adolescents reach their goals, feel better, and improve short term and long term functioning. My focus is working with individuals who have experienced a trauma(s), have trouble adjusting to life changes, display behavioral problems at home or in school, live with a chronic illness, struggle with substance abuse, have low self esteem, anxiety, depression and/or difficulty regulating their moods.
(904) 901-4312 View (904) 901-4312
Photo of Hannah Bose, Pre-Licensed Professional in Jacksonville, FL
Hannah Bose
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI, E-CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32205
I work with clients facing a spectrum of challenges, including trauma, panic, OCD, anxiety, stress, acute and chronic illness, chronic pain, and relationship issues. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a somatic and embodiment lens, recognizing the interconnectedness of body and mind in the healing process. I help people break out of old patterns and bridge the gap between where they are and where they want to be. Through gaining greater self-awareness, healing wounds, and building skills you can overcome blocks to living your most liberated and authentic life.
I work with clients facing a spectrum of challenges, including trauma, panic, OCD, anxiety, stress, acute and chronic illness, chronic pain, and relationship issues. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a somatic and embodiment lens, recognizing the interconnectedness of body and mind in the healing process. I help people break out of old patterns and bridge the gap between where they are and where they want to be. Through gaining greater self-awareness, healing wounds, and building skills you can overcome blocks to living your most liberated and authentic life.
(904) 638-3209 View (904) 638-3209
Photo of Nancy Alonzo, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Nancy Alonzo
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Nancy has been serving clients experiencing conduct disorders, anxiety, depression, chronic pain and illness, and adjustment issues.
Nancy Alonzo is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida. Nancy received her Bachelor’s Degree from Florida International University in 2013, and her Master in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University in 2016. Nancy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness approaches to help her clients achieve their goals. Nancy believes that providing clients with a caring and safe space to explore their issues, where they feel supported, validated, and understood, is a catalyst for positive change.
Nancy has been serving clients experiencing conduct disorders, anxiety, depression, chronic pain and illness, and adjustment issues.
Nancy Alonzo is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida. Nancy received her Bachelor’s Degree from Florida International University in 2013, and her Master in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University in 2016. Nancy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness approaches to help her clients achieve their goals. Nancy believes that providing clients with a caring and safe space to explore their issues, where they feel supported, validated, and understood, is a catalyst for positive change.
(904) 694-5524 View (904) 694-5524
Photo of Generations Psychological & Consultation Services , Psychologist in Jacksonville, FL
Generations Psychological & Consultation Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32224  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to do things you enjoy as you age? Are you overwhelmed caring for someone with a severe disability or dementia? Are you having a hard time adjusting to a chronic illness? There's support out there just for you. For your convenience, I offer telehealth sessions in Florida, Iowa, and I'm PsyPact certified.
Are you struggling to do things you enjoy as you age? Are you overwhelmed caring for someone with a severe disability or dementia? Are you having a hard time adjusting to a chronic illness? There's support out there just for you. For your convenience, I offer telehealth sessions in Florida, Iowa, and I'm PsyPact certified.
(904) 830-6570 View (904) 830-6570
Photo of Mosaic Minds Counseling, LLC in Jacksonville, FL
Mosaic Minds Counseling, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32226  (Online Only)
Telehealth therapy for OCD, anxiety, and trauma from the comfort of your own home! Our therapists are licensed in Florida, Colorado, and South Carolina. Additional specializations that some of our clinicians have are within the areas of grief, depression, ADHD, processing chronic illnesses/chronic pain, processing family dynamics, attachment issues, and more. Studies have also started to show that ERP for OCD through telehealth may be more effective than and faster!
Telehealth therapy for OCD, anxiety, and trauma from the comfort of your own home! Our therapists are licensed in Florida, Colorado, and South Carolina. Additional specializations that some of our clinicians have are within the areas of grief, depression, ADHD, processing chronic illnesses/chronic pain, processing family dynamics, attachment issues, and more. Studies have also started to show that ERP for OCD through telehealth may be more effective than and faster!
(904) 467-4668 View (904) 467-4668
Photo of Dr. Ellen A Williams, Psychologist in Jacksonville, FL
Dr. Ellen A Williams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32250
As a clinical psychologist, I understand the weight of mental illness and the loneliness, confusion, and hopelessness it can sometimes bring. Any chance of improvement might seem miles away. I'm Dr. Ellen Williams, and I'm here to help. I offer online psychotherapy to teens, adults, and seniors who are seeking a path towards a better life. My practice centers on addressing various challenges, including depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, panic, phobias, ADD/ADHD, women's issues, relationship issues, life transitions, and behavioral medicine.
As a clinical psychologist, I understand the weight of mental illness and the loneliness, confusion, and hopelessness it can sometimes bring. Any chance of improvement might seem miles away. I'm Dr. Ellen Williams, and I'm here to help. I offer online psychotherapy to teens, adults, and seniors who are seeking a path towards a better life. My practice centers on addressing various challenges, including depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, panic, phobias, ADD/ADHD, women's issues, relationship issues, life transitions, and behavioral medicine.
(904) 780-6371 View (904) 780-6371
Photo of Nada Frazier, Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern in Jacksonville, FL
Nada Frazier
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32216
I support people in planning/adjusting to life transitions such as loss, grieving, coping with a diagnosis/chronic illness (patient &/or loved ones) and pain, caregiving, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, and depression. We will focus on you as the expert of your life and identify your strengths to help in your personal growth, self-discovery, and development. We will collaboratively add tools to your life skills toolbox. I also work with professionals experiencing career transitions, compassion fatigue, and burnout and help develop practical and empowering self-care practices, increased functioning, and life fulfillment.
I support people in planning/adjusting to life transitions such as loss, grieving, coping with a diagnosis/chronic illness (patient &/or loved ones) and pain, caregiving, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, and depression. We will focus on you as the expert of your life and identify your strengths to help in your personal growth, self-discovery, and development. We will collaboratively add tools to your life skills toolbox. I also work with professionals experiencing career transitions, compassion fatigue, and burnout and help develop practical and empowering self-care practices, increased functioning, and life fulfillment.
(904) 849-9704 View (904) 849-9704
Photo of Lisa Angel, Counseling/Supervision LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Lisa Angel, Counseling/Supervision LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223  (Online Only)
My specialties are Relationships, Depression/Anxiety Disorders, Chronic Pain/Illness, Greif & Loss, and stress management.
Going to talk to somebody about relationships, emotions, and feelings can be new territory for some. It’s hard to share our most private thoughts and experiences with people we don’t know. However, it’s often easier to share with those people that are objective and aren’t in your inner circle like a therapist. Life has gotten even more complex with Covid bringing an increase in fear, stress, anxiety, grief, and suicide. I can offer you 20+ years of experience in multiple areas and modalities of therapy. I’d be happy to chat with you for a few moments to answer any of your questions and to listen to see how I may be of help to you
My specialties are Relationships, Depression/Anxiety Disorders, Chronic Pain/Illness, Greif & Loss, and stress management.
Going to talk to somebody about relationships, emotions, and feelings can be new territory for some. It’s hard to share our most private thoughts and experiences with people we don’t know. However, it’s often easier to share with those people that are objective and aren’t in your inner circle like a therapist. Life has gotten even more complex with Covid bringing an increase in fear, stress, anxiety, grief, and suicide. I can offer you 20+ years of experience in multiple areas and modalities of therapy. I’d be happy to chat with you for a few moments to answer any of your questions and to listen to see how I may be of help to you
(904) 572-7112 View (904) 572-7112
Photo of Stephanie Peyton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Stephanie Peyton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-QS, DMCP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Waitlist for new clients
Have you experienced difficult events, some beyond your control? Perhaps you struggle adjusting to "new norms" in your life, endure panic attacks, or have to force yourself to face each day. At some point, most of us are affected by traumatic events. Complex grief; abuse; military combat; abandonment; assault; chronic pain; and divorce are just a few examples. These experiences can leave us depressed, anxious, fearful or battling post-traumatic stress. They can leave us exhausted without the strength or resources to manage them.
Have you experienced difficult events, some beyond your control? Perhaps you struggle adjusting to "new norms" in your life, endure panic attacks, or have to force yourself to face each day. At some point, most of us are affected by traumatic events. Complex grief; abuse; military combat; abandonment; assault; chronic pain; and divorce are just a few examples. These experiences can leave us depressed, anxious, fearful or battling post-traumatic stress. They can leave us exhausted without the strength or resources to manage them.
(904) 872-8374 View (904) 872-8374
Photo of Rebecca Buch, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Rebecca Buch
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
ADHD assessments for 504/IEP available. Are you struggling to bring your life under control? Are you feeling helpless with your loved ones? Allow me to help you bring balance back to your life and achieve your goals. I have the skills, experience, and education to help you with anxiety, depression, ASD, OCD, BP, trauma, parenting/co-parenting, LGBTQIA2+ issues, and more. I have success with helping clients recover from the pain of loss, divorce, separation, and empty nest syndrome. I can assist you, or your loved one, in preparing for significant life changes in a career or selecting and preparing for college. I am here to help you.
ADHD assessments for 504/IEP available. Are you struggling to bring your life under control? Are you feeling helpless with your loved ones? Allow me to help you bring balance back to your life and achieve your goals. I have the skills, experience, and education to help you with anxiety, depression, ASD, OCD, BP, trauma, parenting/co-parenting, LGBTQIA2+ issues, and more. I have success with helping clients recover from the pain of loss, divorce, separation, and empty nest syndrome. I can assist you, or your loved one, in preparing for significant life changes in a career or selecting and preparing for college. I am here to help you.
(904) 664-4645 View (904) 664-4645
Photo of Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, CAP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
We also provide pain management, SAP evaluations, among others.
WE ARE REALLY AT THE BEACH!!! Ron Cipriano is the Treatment Director for the Substance Abuse IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) at the Jacksonville Beach office of Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling. There are daytime and a night time groups available. In addition to substance abuse, alcoholism and drug addiction groups, I also have individual counseling sessions for addictions and mental health/family/marital counseling.
We also provide pain management, SAP evaluations, among others.
WE ARE REALLY AT THE BEACH!!! Ron Cipriano is the Treatment Director for the Substance Abuse IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) at the Jacksonville Beach office of Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling. There are daytime and a night time groups available. In addition to substance abuse, alcoholism and drug addiction groups, I also have individual counseling sessions for addictions and mental health/family/marital counseling.
(904) 503-2634 View (904) 503-2634
Photo of Taylor Johnston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Taylor Johnston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32258
Welcome to a transformative journey towards healing and personal growth. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome the shadows of trauma, anxiety, panic disorders, chronic pain, and depression, unlocking the door to a brighter, more fulfilling life. In a world where time can seem like a luxury, I understand the urgency of addressing deep-rooted issues. Unlike traditional therapy that may stretch on for years, I specialize in crafting concise, time-specific sessions that dive straight to the heart of the matter. Together, we'll unravel the layers and discover the real roots of your challenges.
Welcome to a transformative journey towards healing and personal growth. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome the shadows of trauma, anxiety, panic disorders, chronic pain, and depression, unlocking the door to a brighter, more fulfilling life. In a world where time can seem like a luxury, I understand the urgency of addressing deep-rooted issues. Unlike traditional therapy that may stretch on for years, I specialize in crafting concise, time-specific sessions that dive straight to the heart of the matter. Together, we'll unravel the layers and discover the real roots of your challenges.
(904) 867-2870 View (904) 867-2870
Photo of Craig P Kurtz LMHC, PA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Craig P Kurtz LMHC, PA
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LMHC, CAP, NCCH, CDV, REBT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223
HOLISTIC-Psychotherapy, COUPLES, MARITAL and SUBSTANCE ABUSE, custody, DIVORCE, bi-polar, mood anxiety, chronic pain with out medication hypnosis - traditional approaches FOR COUPLES-INDIVIDUALS where other therapy and has failed, {addictions} DUI, evaluations counseling certificates. Approved court ordered substance abuse evaluations and treatment, TASC-PROBATION treatment, substance abuse Services for All US COURTS. - EVALUATIONS for courts, Felony and misdemeanor: battery, domestic battery, Referrals to batterers intervention groups and ANGER MANAGEMENT IS available Supportive counseling and groups for witness of violent and emotional abuse of victims. PTSD Advocate for men and womans rights against domestic abuse "NO TEXT'S" as I will not receive them!
HOLISTIC-Psychotherapy, COUPLES, MARITAL and SUBSTANCE ABUSE, custody, DIVORCE, bi-polar, mood anxiety, chronic pain with out medication hypnosis - traditional approaches FOR COUPLES-INDIVIDUALS where other therapy and has failed, {addictions} DUI, evaluations counseling certificates. Approved court ordered substance abuse evaluations and treatment, TASC-PROBATION treatment, substance abuse Services for All US COURTS. - EVALUATIONS for courts, Felony and misdemeanor: battery, domestic battery, Referrals to batterers intervention groups and ANGER MANAGEMENT IS available Supportive counseling and groups for witness of violent and emotional abuse of victims. PTSD Advocate for men and womans rights against domestic abuse "NO TEXT'S" as I will not receive them!
(305) 680-1434 View (305) 680-1434

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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.