Chronic Pain Therapists in Marietta, GA
Lucy Dunning
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS, BC-TMC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30060 (Online Only)
Connecting with the right therapist is critical when starting your therapeutic journey. I provide free consultations to potential clients, ensuring they feel confident when committing to their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with patients and families who experience Chronic Illness and Pain. As a chronic illness patient and therapist, I recognize the unique and personal journey clients experience. I understand the obstacles, stigma, and barriers my clients face as they work on building their quality of life.
Connecting with the right therapist is critical when starting your therapeutic journey. I provide free consultations to potential clients, ensuring they feel confident when committing to their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with patients and families who experience Chronic Illness and Pain. As a chronic illness patient and therapist, I recognize the unique and personal journey clients experience. I understand the obstacles, stigma, and barriers my clients face as they work on building their quality of life.
Richard E. Shook
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30060
My residency was at the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, where I also completed a Fellowship in Pain Management in the Anesthesiology Department.
Are you looking for counseling, psychotherapy? Are you or your child struggling with problems? Through individual and/or family counseling, you can develop ways to address problems. Psychological testing may be used to more deeply understand your challenges. Assisting you at the highest level, my knowledge and skills are kept current. I've been a licensed psychologist for over 28 years. I assist children and teenagers, adults, couples and families. Prior to private practice, I obtained extensive inpatient experience in a psychiatric prison, an inpatient adolescent facility and the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center .
My residency was at the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, where I also completed a Fellowship in Pain Management in the Anesthesiology Department.
Are you looking for counseling, psychotherapy? Are you or your child struggling with problems? Through individual and/or family counseling, you can develop ways to address problems. Psychological testing may be used to more deeply understand your challenges. Assisting you at the highest level, my knowledge and skills are kept current. I've been a licensed psychologist for over 28 years. I assist children and teenagers, adults, couples and families. Prior to private practice, I obtained extensive inpatient experience in a psychiatric prison, an inpatient adolescent facility and the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center .
Anastasia Bean-Moon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
Areas of interest: ACOA, Addiction/Dependency, Anxiety, Chronic Pain, Codependency, Depression, Grief and Loss, Interpersonal Relationships, Life Transition, Stress, Spirituality, Trauma, Women's Issues / Serves on the CPA Board of Trustees as a Professional Advocate.
My therapeutic approach is strength based and integrative, utilizing solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, emotionally focused therapy, and experiential methods. I believe the therapeutic relationship is vital. By utilizing a core humanistic approach, based on trust, nonjudgmental, and a genuine unconditional positive regard. I help clients gain insight into the past and evaluate present living to create a new perspective. Awareness of self and others, coping skills, and motivation of present living is explored to create new patterns of thought, new emotional responses, and new behaviors to not only heal and reach your goal but to thrive and live fully.
Areas of interest: ACOA, Addiction/Dependency, Anxiety, Chronic Pain, Codependency, Depression, Grief and Loss, Interpersonal Relationships, Life Transition, Stress, Spirituality, Trauma, Women's Issues / Serves on the CPA Board of Trustees as a Professional Advocate.
My therapeutic approach is strength based and integrative, utilizing solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, emotionally focused therapy, and experiential methods. I believe the therapeutic relationship is vital. By utilizing a core humanistic approach, based on trust, nonjudgmental, and a genuine unconditional positive regard. I help clients gain insight into the past and evaluate present living to create a new perspective. Awareness of self and others, coping skills, and motivation of present living is explored to create new patterns of thought, new emotional responses, and new behaviors to not only heal and reach your goal but to thrive and live fully.
Lindsey Richmond
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Were you recently the victim of a personal injury claim? My clients are typically experiencing PTSD symptoms and/or chronic pain, caused by a recent traumatic event. These symptoms are often exacerbated when they are not able to receive immediate treatment. I work hard to not only build the relationship necessary to facilitate the healing process, but the knowledge and the skills for clients to do so. I help my clients redefine their lives and their values, to begin making the efforts necessary to overcome their current circumstances, and build a new and better life, with meaning and fulfillment.
Were you recently the victim of a personal injury claim? My clients are typically experiencing PTSD symptoms and/or chronic pain, caused by a recent traumatic event. These symptoms are often exacerbated when they are not able to receive immediate treatment. I work hard to not only build the relationship necessary to facilitate the healing process, but the knowledge and the skills for clients to do so. I help my clients redefine their lives and their values, to begin making the efforts necessary to overcome their current circumstances, and build a new and better life, with meaning and fulfillment.
Taylor Pastor
Counselor, APC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
My experience researching and working with chronic pain patients shapes my approach.
Life can take unexpected turns, revealing the lasting impact of our experiences. As a trauma-informed therapist, I specialize in helping individuals, families, and couples navigate through the intricacies of complex trauma, chronic pain/illness, grief, and relationship struggles. Whether it's untangling the web of trauma survival or finding a way through the fog of grief, I'm here to walk alongside you. My expertise lies in creating a safe space where you can comfortably explore your story and cultivate resilience to actively engage in and savor life again.
My experience researching and working with chronic pain patients shapes my approach.
Life can take unexpected turns, revealing the lasting impact of our experiences. As a trauma-informed therapist, I specialize in helping individuals, families, and couples navigate through the intricacies of complex trauma, chronic pain/illness, grief, and relationship struggles. Whether it's untangling the web of trauma survival or finding a way through the fog of grief, I'm here to walk alongside you. My expertise lies in creating a safe space where you can comfortably explore your story and cultivate resilience to actively engage in and savor life again.
Sarah S Pannell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30068 (Online Only)
I am psychotherapist with more than a decade of experience helping clients to to work through their pain so they are free to live the lives they were made to live.
Do you feel like no matter what you do, it's never enough? You try & try but no matter what others may see or say, underneath it, you're struggling? Maybe something happened & you can't move forward despite all your efforts to do so. Maybe you've been trying to conceive or you're struggling after baby arrives. Maybe you're struggling with your body or your relationship with food. Maybe life just feels overwhelming. You are NOT alone. The decision to enter therapy is a courageous one- a decision to get the support you need and deserve so you can move towards your goals and become more of who you authentically are!
I am psychotherapist with more than a decade of experience helping clients to to work through their pain so they are free to live the lives they were made to live.
Do you feel like no matter what you do, it's never enough? You try & try but no matter what others may see or say, underneath it, you're struggling? Maybe something happened & you can't move forward despite all your efforts to do so. Maybe you've been trying to conceive or you're struggling after baby arrives. Maybe you're struggling with your body or your relationship with food. Maybe life just feels overwhelming. You are NOT alone. The decision to enter therapy is a courageous one- a decision to get the support you need and deserve so you can move towards your goals and become more of who you authentically are!
Claire E Gropman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACRPS
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30062
Waitlist for new clients
It's important to provide a safe, empathetic environment for clients to share their emotional pain.
I am currently seeing clients in-person and Via Zoom. Substance Use, Depression, and Anxiety have all increased due to the pandemic. Just not feeling good and not sure why? Let’s figure it out together. We will set goals and make a plan to start feeling relief within 30 days. I am a Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and Certified Relapse Prevention Specialist. Maybe you are concerned for a family member? I have 27 years experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor and the last ten years I have worked in Behavioral Health Hospitals. Call now for a free consultation!
It's important to provide a safe, empathetic environment for clients to share their emotional pain.
I am currently seeing clients in-person and Via Zoom. Substance Use, Depression, and Anxiety have all increased due to the pandemic. Just not feeling good and not sure why? Let’s figure it out together. We will set goals and make a plan to start feeling relief within 30 days. I am a Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and Certified Relapse Prevention Specialist. Maybe you are concerned for a family member? I have 27 years experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor and the last ten years I have worked in Behavioral Health Hospitals. Call now for a free consultation!
Megan Kuder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
We all get in a rut from time to time and need some help walking towards health and wholeness again. I specialize in helping women and couples navigate issues related to anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, pregnancy/postpartum, life transitions and grief so that they can attain a greater sense of peace, hope and courage to live their life well. I help couples who are in need of help navigating complexities of relationship through building healthy communication & conflict resolution skills while exploring and facilitating healing in root areas of pain in a warm and directive environment.
We all get in a rut from time to time and need some help walking towards health and wholeness again. I specialize in helping women and couples navigate issues related to anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, pregnancy/postpartum, life transitions and grief so that they can attain a greater sense of peace, hope and courage to live their life well. I help couples who are in need of help navigating complexities of relationship through building healthy communication & conflict resolution skills while exploring and facilitating healing in root areas of pain in a warm and directive environment.
Keir Brady
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30062
You are seeking a therapist because you want to make your life and relationships better. You may feel discouraged and feel helpless as to how to improve things. The good news is that individual or couples therapy can help. Through therapy, I can help you free yourself from stress and struggle. Together we can work to heal your pain, create the relationships that you want, improve your self-esteem, and build a more fulfilling life. I can help you develop more compassion for your pain and be kinder to yourself so you can feel more hopeful about your life and relationships.
You are seeking a therapist because you want to make your life and relationships better. You may feel discouraged and feel helpless as to how to improve things. The good news is that individual or couples therapy can help. Through therapy, I can help you free yourself from stress and struggle. Together we can work to heal your pain, create the relationships that you want, improve your self-esteem, and build a more fulfilling life. I can help you develop more compassion for your pain and be kinder to yourself so you can feel more hopeful about your life and relationships.
Tzipporah Gerson-Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-IAYT, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I believe that self-awareness is one of the core pillars that aid in the alleviation of suffering. The simplest of lifestyle changes can create immense improvements in the quality of one’s life. Establishing a safe and trusting relationship with a therapist, can relieve psychological and physical imbalances, as well as uncover the unhealthy habits, patterns, and behaviors that lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, and chronic pain. My practice focuses on the specific needs of women and girls throughout the lifespan.
I believe that self-awareness is one of the core pillars that aid in the alleviation of suffering. The simplest of lifestyle changes can create immense improvements in the quality of one’s life. Establishing a safe and trusting relationship with a therapist, can relieve psychological and physical imbalances, as well as uncover the unhealthy habits, patterns, and behaviors that lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, and chronic pain. My practice focuses on the specific needs of women and girls throughout the lifespan.
Kristina Koncul Murr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
I use a holistic approach, and I help clients with anxiety, stress, depression, pregnancy and postpartum issues, chronic illness, and clients learning to cope with ADHD without stimulants.
You may be looking through these profiles and feeling more overwhelmed and stressed. To some, finding a therapist can feel hard..and scary! I get it. I’ve been there! Thus, I’ll make starting therapy as easy possible while making your experience with therapy as comfortable as possible. If you are in need of support, wanting to change self-defeating thoughts and behaviors, or need an empathetic ear waiting to listen, please feel free to contact me. Our conversations will help you gain more self-awareness, understanding, and compassion for yourself, while working through issues such as depression, anxiety, perfectionism, and stress.
I use a holistic approach, and I help clients with anxiety, stress, depression, pregnancy and postpartum issues, chronic illness, and clients learning to cope with ADHD without stimulants.
You may be looking through these profiles and feeling more overwhelmed and stressed. To some, finding a therapist can feel hard..and scary! I get it. I’ve been there! Thus, I’ll make starting therapy as easy possible while making your experience with therapy as comfortable as possible. If you are in need of support, wanting to change self-defeating thoughts and behaviors, or need an empathetic ear waiting to listen, please feel free to contact me. Our conversations will help you gain more self-awareness, understanding, and compassion for yourself, while working through issues such as depression, anxiety, perfectionism, and stress.
15 Second Videos
Sarah S Pannell
Comfort N Attaochu
Terry Crump
Tynisha Camae Drennon
Kim Peery
Jeffree Gars
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30062
In addition, I bring to psychotherapy sessions an extensive holistic understanding of the mind-body connection and how the health of the mind (thoughts, behaviors, feelings, stress and anxiety) affects the body and how the health of the body (stress, illness, chronic pain, sleep, nutrition and exercise) affects the mind.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), childhood issues, relationship issues, work related and personal stress, or substance abuse? Together we address any obstacles getting in the way of you living your life with the peace you seek. I provide professional psychotherapy for adult individuals, adolescents and couples. I have experience working with individuals in variety of clinical settings including; psychiatric hospital, family services, residential facility, outpatient wilderness therapy and private practice. In your sacred space and at your pace we can begin to take a step into real change.
In addition, I bring to psychotherapy sessions an extensive holistic understanding of the mind-body connection and how the health of the mind (thoughts, behaviors, feelings, stress and anxiety) affects the body and how the health of the body (stress, illness, chronic pain, sleep, nutrition and exercise) affects the mind.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), childhood issues, relationship issues, work related and personal stress, or substance abuse? Together we address any obstacles getting in the way of you living your life with the peace you seek. I provide professional psychotherapy for adult individuals, adolescents and couples. I have experience working with individuals in variety of clinical settings including; psychiatric hospital, family services, residential facility, outpatient wilderness therapy and private practice. In your sacred space and at your pace we can begin to take a step into real change.
Maureen A. Grady Morales
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30066
Currently featured in Atlanta Magazine, I can help you through a cutting edge neuropsychological approach to therapy. Emotional and physical pain are often interrelated. I am a trauma specialist who uses a combination of therapies to help you transform your life from not-so-good to great. I can help you calm the mind and the body, reducing anxiety laden symptoms. Advanced BrainSpotting, CBT, DBT, and Somatic Experiencing™ are tools that can really help move you forward from the inside out. Conveniently located in Buckhead and Brookhaven. Currently taking “Virtual” counseling patients through Zoom.
Currently featured in Atlanta Magazine, I can help you through a cutting edge neuropsychological approach to therapy. Emotional and physical pain are often interrelated. I am a trauma specialist who uses a combination of therapies to help you transform your life from not-so-good to great. I can help you calm the mind and the body, reducing anxiety laden symptoms. Advanced BrainSpotting, CBT, DBT, and Somatic Experiencing™ are tools that can really help move you forward from the inside out. Conveniently located in Buckhead and Brookhaven. Currently taking “Virtual” counseling patients through Zoom.
Kimberly R Duff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30068 (Online Only)
As a cancer survivor, I am able to relate to persons with pain, anxiety or illness.
Are you feeling like there is no hope, or were you told to just “learn to deal with life this way”? Are you searching for strength and purpose? Is the voice of fear drowning out the voice of confidence to make it through your problems?? When I look back on my biggest life struggles, including facing a diagnosis of cancer and permanent blindness, I realize counseling helped me find the strength to overcome. I want to teach others resilience and to give back through my profession. Let me now help you face your fears with strength and find happiness in your time of darkness!
As a cancer survivor, I am able to relate to persons with pain, anxiety or illness.
Are you feeling like there is no hope, or were you told to just “learn to deal with life this way”? Are you searching for strength and purpose? Is the voice of fear drowning out the voice of confidence to make it through your problems?? When I look back on my biggest life struggles, including facing a diagnosis of cancer and permanent blindness, I realize counseling helped me find the strength to overcome. I want to teach others resilience and to give back through my profession. Let me now help you face your fears with strength and find happiness in your time of darkness!
Jessica B Whyte
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NFB
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
I am a licensed professional counselor, specializing in therapies (Neurofeedback, Play Therapy, Yoga) which have been demonstrated by neuroscience to be effective tools in addressing symptoms and causes of ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, TBI, tinnitus, chronic pain and some mood disorders. I believe that our bodies and minds are inextricably connected and have an enormous capacity not only to heal anything that ails us, but to take us beyond healing- to a state in which we are able to thrive. My passion is using Neurofeedback to restore, rebalance, and retrain brainwaves in the direction of health and happiness, while supporting and empowering my clients as they reclaim the thriving lives that they were meant to live.
I am a licensed professional counselor, specializing in therapies (Neurofeedback, Play Therapy, Yoga) which have been demonstrated by neuroscience to be effective tools in addressing symptoms and causes of ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, TBI, tinnitus, chronic pain and some mood disorders. I believe that our bodies and minds are inextricably connected and have an enormous capacity not only to heal anything that ails us, but to take us beyond healing- to a state in which we are able to thrive. My passion is using Neurofeedback to restore, rebalance, and retrain brainwaves in the direction of health and happiness, while supporting and empowering my clients as they reclaim the thriving lives that they were meant to live.
Michael-Renee Godfrey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD,RN, LPC,PCS, BC-TMH, CAMS-II, CFRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
I'm an RN, plus an LPC, so I understand chronic pain/disease.
"If my aim is to prove I am enough, the project goes on to infinity; because the battle was already lost on the day I conceded the issue was debatable." ~Nathaniel Branden. As an experiential therapist, I "name the elephant in the room" & help clients navigate obstacles denying them pure joy in living. I work with clients to get out of their own way, embrace their power, choose "gutz over fear," & not let their worst enemy be between their own two ears. My clients learn the power & responsibility of choice, self-compassion when self-esteem fails, respect in accountability, grace when failing forward, and celebration & love of self.
I'm an RN, plus an LPC, so I understand chronic pain/disease.
"If my aim is to prove I am enough, the project goes on to infinity; because the battle was already lost on the day I conceded the issue was debatable." ~Nathaniel Branden. As an experiential therapist, I "name the elephant in the room" & help clients navigate obstacles denying them pure joy in living. I work with clients to get out of their own way, embrace their power, choose "gutz over fear," & not let their worst enemy be between their own two ears. My clients learn the power & responsibility of choice, self-compassion when self-esteem fails, respect in accountability, grace when failing forward, and celebration & love of self.
Mike McNulty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062 (Online Only)
My specialties include relationships in crisis, depression, anxiety, grief counseling, major illness and caretaking, and transgender issues.
“You’re a person, not a diagnosis.” That phrase appears on my website and my business cards because it goes to the heart of my philosophy about therapy. While diagnoses may be helpful for medical treatments, you’re a person with real hopes, dreams, fears, and problems. Listening with respect is the beginning of our relationship, and I engage in “active listening” – asking questions for clarification, and making connections to a person’s past. Together, we’ll identify the issues facing you. Then, we’ll map out a plan to deal with those issues. In this way, I often serve as a life coach in addition to being a therapist.
My specialties include relationships in crisis, depression, anxiety, grief counseling, major illness and caretaking, and transgender issues.
“You’re a person, not a diagnosis.” That phrase appears on my website and my business cards because it goes to the heart of my philosophy about therapy. While diagnoses may be helpful for medical treatments, you’re a person with real hopes, dreams, fears, and problems. Listening with respect is the beginning of our relationship, and I engage in “active listening” – asking questions for clarification, and making connections to a person’s past. Together, we’ll identify the issues facing you. Then, we’ll map out a plan to deal with those issues. In this way, I often serve as a life coach in addition to being a therapist.
Comfort N Attaochu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30060
You woke up again this morning feeling empty, depressed, and anxious about your life and future. The pain of losing your companion twists you up in a ball as you pull the sheets over your head. It would be so much easier to stay there all day, hiding from the world. Except then you’d be alone with your thoughts. And that’s been a total nightmare. There’s nowhere left to hide. The suffering is waiting for you everywhere you turn. Your partner was your everything. How will you navigate this world without them? Everything is different with your loved one gone. You hate this feeling but wonder how you can ever change it. I can help.
You woke up again this morning feeling empty, depressed, and anxious about your life and future. The pain of losing your companion twists you up in a ball as you pull the sheets over your head. It would be so much easier to stay there all day, hiding from the world. Except then you’d be alone with your thoughts. And that’s been a total nightmare. There’s nowhere left to hide. The suffering is waiting for you everywhere you turn. Your partner was your everything. How will you navigate this world without them? Everything is different with your loved one gone. You hate this feeling but wonder how you can ever change it. I can help.
Lauren St John
Pre-Licensed Professional, ART-P, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062 (Online Only)
Due to my personal background, I have a special interest in working with marginalized populations, people struggling with body image, and those living with chronic pain and chronic illness.
You deserve to feel validated and supported as you are. My goal as a LGBTQIA2S+, neurodiverse, larger bodied therapist, is to provide an inclusive environment for individuals of all sexual identities, genders, abilities, races, ages, and body size. I foster a warm & open space free from judgment. You are the expert on your life, and I am here to walk beside you on your journey. My approach to counseling is to support you as a whole person navigate the systems that are affecting you. While much of my work includes art therapy and a holistic approach, we will work together to find what will work best for you.
Due to my personal background, I have a special interest in working with marginalized populations, people struggling with body image, and those living with chronic pain and chronic illness.
You deserve to feel validated and supported as you are. My goal as a LGBTQIA2S+, neurodiverse, larger bodied therapist, is to provide an inclusive environment for individuals of all sexual identities, genders, abilities, races, ages, and body size. I foster a warm & open space free from judgment. You are the expert on your life, and I am here to walk beside you on your journey. My approach to counseling is to support you as a whole person navigate the systems that are affecting you. While much of my work includes art therapy and a holistic approach, we will work together to find what will work best for you.
Dr. Elizabeth A. Mellin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30006 (Online Only)
I specialize in sex-positive, trauma-focused therapy with a particular commitment to serving women and the LGBTQ+ community. Whether childhood abuse, parental rejection, religious alienation, societal discrimination, sexual assault, etc., the types of pain we experience are often interpersonal and related to our identities. Trauma impacts our physical and mental health, relationships, and sex lives. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and chronic illness are connected to traumatic distress. Trauma also compromises our ability to feel safe in relationships. As a result, we may struggle with shame, trust, self-worth, boundaries, intimacy, etc.
I specialize in sex-positive, trauma-focused therapy with a particular commitment to serving women and the LGBTQ+ community. Whether childhood abuse, parental rejection, religious alienation, societal discrimination, sexual assault, etc., the types of pain we experience are often interpersonal and related to our identities. Trauma impacts our physical and mental health, relationships, and sex lives. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and chronic illness are connected to traumatic distress. Trauma also compromises our ability to feel safe in relationships. As a result, we may struggle with shame, trust, self-worth, boundaries, intimacy, etc.
See more therapy options for Marietta
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.