Photo of Azi Ghaffari, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Azi Ghaffari
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I also have a training specialty in working with individuals adjusting to chronic medical conditions including completion of pre-surgical psychological evaluations for bariatric surgery, spinal cord stimulator, & pain pump placement.
My approach to therapy is holistic and incorporates the connection of the mind, body and emotions. Clients have described me as warm, supportive, non-judgmental and calm. My goal is to help better manage your thoughts, feelings, and to help you feel happier and healthier. I welcome the opportunity to join your journey to healing and recovery.
I also have a training specialty in working with individuals adjusting to chronic medical conditions including completion of pre-surgical psychological evaluations for bariatric surgery, spinal cord stimulator, & pain pump placement.
My approach to therapy is holistic and incorporates the connection of the mind, body and emotions. Clients have described me as warm, supportive, non-judgmental and calm. My goal is to help better manage your thoughts, feelings, and to help you feel happier and healthier. I welcome the opportunity to join your journey to healing and recovery.
(773) 831-4193 View (773) 831-4193
Photo of Nitaya Chawla, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Nitaya Chawla
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I have found hypnosis to be an effective tool for a variety of issues including; chronic and acute pain, weight management, smoking cession, stress, sleep issues, anxiety, and panic attacks.
Change is never easy,but with the assistance of a therapist, you can start to learn skills to move towards your goals. Some of these skills include effective communication, mindfulness, relaxation, and changing negative thought patterns. In my work with couples, I focus on teaching communication skills and understanding underlying issues that effect the relationship.
I have found hypnosis to be an effective tool for a variety of issues including; chronic and acute pain, weight management, smoking cession, stress, sleep issues, anxiety, and panic attacks.
Change is never easy,but with the assistance of a therapist, you can start to learn skills to move towards your goals. Some of these skills include effective communication, mindfulness, relaxation, and changing negative thought patterns. In my work with couples, I focus on teaching communication skills and understanding underlying issues that effect the relationship.
(630) 796-0890 View (630) 796-0890
Photo of Stacey J. Feuer, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Stacey J. Feuer
Psychologist, PsyD, MLD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60620
Therapeutic services may include issues such as pain management, treatment adherence, sleep difficulties, general supportive therapy, and/or exploring the deeper meaning of how illness has affected one’s life.
Dr. Feuer is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the Director of Health Psychology at IPD/DMG. She completed the majority of her clinical training in medical hospitals and outpatient settings. She additionally works as an adjunct faculty member for the PsyD Clinical Psychology program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Feuer’s areas of expertise include adults (18+) living with chronic medical illnesses, and has particular experience with clients diagnosed with cancer, cardiovascular, and transplant-related diagnoses. She also has experience working with caregivers of individuals living with chronic illness.
Therapeutic services may include issues such as pain management, treatment adherence, sleep difficulties, general supportive therapy, and/or exploring the deeper meaning of how illness has affected one’s life.
Dr. Feuer is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the Director of Health Psychology at IPD/DMG. She completed the majority of her clinical training in medical hospitals and outpatient settings. She additionally works as an adjunct faculty member for the PsyD Clinical Psychology program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Feuer’s areas of expertise include adults (18+) living with chronic medical illnesses, and has particular experience with clients diagnosed with cancer, cardiovascular, and transplant-related diagnoses. She also has experience working with caregivers of individuals living with chronic illness.
(773) 295-0537 View (773) 295-0537
Photo of Gregory J Harms, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Gregory J Harms
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
A behavioral approach is well suited to clients with chronic medical conditions, such as pain, headaches, diabetes, heart failure, and cancer, as well as episodic problems, such as insomnia.
As a health psychologist, I work with clients who have physical and emotional conditions that are getting in the way of being able to live the lives they want. I help clients identify and follow through on changes they can make to improve their well-being. I use a behavioral approach supplemented with biofeedback and hypnosis. I also work with couples who are struggling to find ways to get closer together and feel like they are truly partners in their relationship. The key to my approach is to find effective ways to get what you want from your life.
A behavioral approach is well suited to clients with chronic medical conditions, such as pain, headaches, diabetes, heart failure, and cancer, as well as episodic problems, such as insomnia.
As a health psychologist, I work with clients who have physical and emotional conditions that are getting in the way of being able to live the lives they want. I help clients identify and follow through on changes they can make to improve their well-being. I use a behavioral approach supplemented with biofeedback and hypnosis. I also work with couples who are struggling to find ways to get closer together and feel like they are truly partners in their relationship. The key to my approach is to find effective ways to get what you want from your life.
(773) 985-3895 View (773) 985-3895
Photo of Donna Teti, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Donna Teti
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603
Through my work at a rehabilitation hospital, I have gained experience working with the medically ill, those caring for family members with an illness and the bereaved.
In searching for a psychotherapist, it is likely that you have a specific problem in mind. When these problems intensify or linger for long periods of time, they can lead to symptoms of anxiety and/or depression which interfere with your quality of life and sense of well-being. If you are seeking help in overcoming these difficulties, there are two important factors to consider when choosing a therapist. First, it is important that, after a few visits with the therapist, you feel that there is potential to form a strong working alliance.
Through my work at a rehabilitation hospital, I have gained experience working with the medically ill, those caring for family members with an illness and the bereaved.
In searching for a psychotherapist, it is likely that you have a specific problem in mind. When these problems intensify or linger for long periods of time, they can lead to symptoms of anxiety and/or depression which interfere with your quality of life and sense of well-being. If you are seeking help in overcoming these difficulties, there are two important factors to consider when choosing a therapist. First, it is important that, after a few visits with the therapist, you feel that there is potential to form a strong working alliance.
(773) 231-5207 View (773) 231-5207
Photo of Anya Drew, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Anya Drew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I have experience with anxiety, grief and loss, depression, adjustment to chronic illness, familial dementia stressors, caregiver stress, and sibling relationships.
I believe that every individual is unique, and that starting therapy can be difficult no matter your age. A person’s mental health is very important, and while it can be burdensome to start the process of improving it, reaching out for support is an important first step. I want to make the process of finding a therapist that works for you easy and painless. Even if I end up not being the right fit, I will help to find someone who I believe will work well with you and your needs.
I have experience with anxiety, grief and loss, depression, adjustment to chronic illness, familial dementia stressors, caregiver stress, and sibling relationships.
I believe that every individual is unique, and that starting therapy can be difficult no matter your age. A person’s mental health is very important, and while it can be burdensome to start the process of improving it, reaching out for support is an important first step. I want to make the process of finding a therapist that works for you easy and painless. Even if I end up not being the right fit, I will help to find someone who I believe will work well with you and your needs.
(312) 883-9113 View (312) 883-9113
Photo of Mason L Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Mason L Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, NBCCH, CSOTS, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615  (Online Only)
I help adults who sometimes gravitate towards drugs, alcohol, unhealthy eating habits, sex or even other people, to numb their pain.
Do you ever wonder why you keep experiencing the same kind of problem over and over again? Do you keep feeling defeated even before you begin? Ever wonder sometimes what's it all for and why you're still living? Many people ask themselves these questions everyday, but do nothing about it. You are not alone! There is help. You've come to the right place! People sometimes develop unhealthy ways of living due to their past experiences of being abused, hurt or traumatized. I specialize in helping those people suffering from the pain of life's disappointments, hurts or tragedies.
I help adults who sometimes gravitate towards drugs, alcohol, unhealthy eating habits, sex or even other people, to numb their pain.
Do you ever wonder why you keep experiencing the same kind of problem over and over again? Do you keep feeling defeated even before you begin? Ever wonder sometimes what's it all for and why you're still living? Many people ask themselves these questions everyday, but do nothing about it. You are not alone! There is help. You've come to the right place! People sometimes develop unhealthy ways of living due to their past experiences of being abused, hurt or traumatized. I specialize in helping those people suffering from the pain of life's disappointments, hurts or tragedies.
(773) 270-8292 View (773) 270-8292
Photo of Debra Stambaugh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Debra Stambaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, CT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60651
Waitlist for new clients
My experience includes working with grief, loss, anticipatory grief and trauma. Anxiety, panic and mood disorders. Lifestyle concerns and modifications including chronic illness, pain and co-occurring (mental health and substance abuse) disorders. I am certified in thanatology (death, dying & bereavement) from the Association of Death Education and Counseling (ADEC). I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) from EMDRA.
My experience includes working with grief, loss, anticipatory grief and trauma. Anxiety, panic and mood disorders. Lifestyle concerns and modifications including chronic illness, pain and co-occurring (mental health and substance abuse) disorders. I am certified in thanatology (death, dying & bereavement) from the Association of Death Education and Counseling (ADEC). I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) from EMDRA.
(847) 278-9406 View (847) 278-9406
Photo of Max N Beshers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Max N Beshers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
In my 10 years of practice as a psychotherapist, I have worked with people facing many struggles, including surviving past trauma and abuse, feeling suicidal, and severe/chronic mental illness. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I have worked with many people who identify as LGBTQ, and have supported people through coming out, gender transition, and accessing gender-affirming health care. As a white therapist, when working with BIPOC clients, I use the frameworks of anti-racism and cultural humility, and strive to make space for exploring the impacts of racism and racial differences.
In my 10 years of practice as a psychotherapist, I have worked with people facing many struggles, including surviving past trauma and abuse, feeling suicidal, and severe/chronic mental illness. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I have worked with many people who identify as LGBTQ, and have supported people through coming out, gender transition, and accessing gender-affirming health care. As a white therapist, when working with BIPOC clients, I use the frameworks of anti-racism and cultural humility, and strive to make space for exploring the impacts of racism and racial differences.
(217) 472-4109 View (217) 472-4109
Photo of Haneen B Efein, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Haneen B Efein
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Efein has worked in various settings with individuals who have struggled with depression, anxiety, stress, chronic illness, relationship and family issues, women's issues, cultural issues, employment stress/difficulties, and trauma.
Dr. Haneen Efein is a licensed Clinical Psychologist who earned her bachelor's degree with honors from DePaul University in Chicago, Il, and her PsyD from Adler University. She completed her predoctoral internship with Adler Community Health Services with a specialization in primary care psychology, and her postdoctoral fellowship with Diamond Headache Clinic at St. Joseph Medical Center. "It takes a lot of courage to begin therapy. If you are here and considering beginning treatment, congratulations on taking the biggest step of all!
Efein has worked in various settings with individuals who have struggled with depression, anxiety, stress, chronic illness, relationship and family issues, women's issues, cultural issues, employment stress/difficulties, and trauma.
Dr. Haneen Efein is a licensed Clinical Psychologist who earned her bachelor's degree with honors from DePaul University in Chicago, Il, and her PsyD from Adler University. She completed her predoctoral internship with Adler Community Health Services with a specialization in primary care psychology, and her postdoctoral fellowship with Diamond Headache Clinic at St. Joseph Medical Center. "It takes a lot of courage to begin therapy. If you are here and considering beginning treatment, congratulations on taking the biggest step of all!
(872) 246-8863 View (872) 246-8863
Photo of Leah Paskar, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Leah Paskar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I have experience treating a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, life transitions, coping with illness, self-esteem, relationships, career, and work/life balance.
Are you feeling sad, anxious or overwhelmed? Are you experiencing relationship problems or feeling lonely? Asking for help is a courageous thing to do. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I offer a thoughtful, compassionate, and collaborative approach to dealing with life's difficulties. Together we can find solutions that will make you feel better as soon as possible. I can help you develop new coping strategies and a deeper understanding of your needs. I am committed to helping you use your strengths to grow personally and in your relationships with others. **Unfortunately, I am not able to accept new clients at this time.*
I have experience treating a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, life transitions, coping with illness, self-esteem, relationships, career, and work/life balance.
Are you feeling sad, anxious or overwhelmed? Are you experiencing relationship problems or feeling lonely? Asking for help is a courageous thing to do. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I offer a thoughtful, compassionate, and collaborative approach to dealing with life's difficulties. Together we can find solutions that will make you feel better as soon as possible. I can help you develop new coping strategies and a deeper understanding of your needs. I am committed to helping you use your strengths to grow personally and in your relationships with others. **Unfortunately, I am not able to accept new clients at this time.*
(773) 757-5095 View (773) 757-5095
Photo of Ashley Sloan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Ashley Sloan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling anxious, depressed, or stressed? Are you struggling to manage a physical condition and accept the impacts these struggles have on you and your relationships? I help support individuals with emotional challenges as well as those dealing with acute and chronic physical pain and illness. If you're dealing with anxiety, stress, sadness, loneliness, or the many difficulties that accompany physical pain/illness, I am here to help.
Have you been feeling anxious, depressed, or stressed? Are you struggling to manage a physical condition and accept the impacts these struggles have on you and your relationships? I help support individuals with emotional challenges as well as those dealing with acute and chronic physical pain and illness. If you're dealing with anxiety, stress, sadness, loneliness, or the many difficulties that accompany physical pain/illness, I am here to help.
(224) 291-8867 View (224) 291-8867
Photo of CJE SeniorLife, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
CJE SeniorLife
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60645
Our clinicians assist clients with anxiety and depression, grief and loss, trauma recovery, health and chronic illness, caregiver stress, life transitions, relationship changes, financial difficulties, difficult family dynamics and other challenges related to aging.
CJE Counseling Services is staffed by a team of highly skilled Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) who are specialists in the field of mental health and aging. We are dedicated to assisting older adults find more effective strategies to manage challenging life situations.
Our clinicians assist clients with anxiety and depression, grief and loss, trauma recovery, health and chronic illness, caregiver stress, life transitions, relationship changes, financial difficulties, difficult family dynamics and other challenges related to aging.
CJE Counseling Services is staffed by a team of highly skilled Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) who are specialists in the field of mental health and aging. We are dedicated to assisting older adults find more effective strategies to manage challenging life situations.
(224) 267-9762 View (224) 267-9762
Photo of Amy Weider, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Amy Weider
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Major life changes, such as being diagnosed with a chronic illness, starting a new career path, losing a loved one, or becoming a caregiver, can be overwhelming. They can make us question our values, goals, and sense of self. In these pivotal moments, therapy becomes a powerful tool to navigate our journey, make meaning and find our authentic voices. It's time to give yourself permission to evolve and embrace the process of self-discovery.
Major life changes, such as being diagnosed with a chronic illness, starting a new career path, losing a loved one, or becoming a caregiver, can be overwhelming. They can make us question our values, goals, and sense of self. In these pivotal moments, therapy becomes a powerful tool to navigate our journey, make meaning and find our authentic voices. It's time to give yourself permission to evolve and embrace the process of self-discovery.
(312) 584-4805 View (312) 584-4805
Photo of Jack Lionberger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jack Lionberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I have a proven record of helping people who experience acute anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, moral injury, addiction, interpersonal difficulties, chronic pain, death, grief, and more.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with a master’s degree from the University of Chicago, where I was a member of a program of study that focused on the newest forms of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I enjoy working with both individuals, couples, and families, and draw most from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I take an approach that looks beyond diagnoses, and explores the larger patterns and processes of behavior, emotion, and thinking that get in the way of people’s lives and relationships.
I have a proven record of helping people who experience acute anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, moral injury, addiction, interpersonal difficulties, chronic pain, death, grief, and more.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with a master’s degree from the University of Chicago, where I was a member of a program of study that focused on the newest forms of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I enjoy working with both individuals, couples, and families, and draw most from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I take an approach that looks beyond diagnoses, and explores the larger patterns and processes of behavior, emotion, and thinking that get in the way of people’s lives and relationships.
(312) 313-2359 View (312) 313-2359
Photo of Christopher Chroniak, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Christopher Chroniak
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603
Hello, I'm Dr. Chris Chroniak. For 38 years I have assisted individuals struggling with depression, stress and anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, divorce, OCD, a relationship or lack of one, as well as numerous other psychological and emotional issues. I begin therapy by developing a warm and genuine relationship with my client. We then work together to explore and work through the underlying issues that block growth and cause pain or discomfort. I also teach my clients practical and effective tools that help them deal with painful and troubling thoughts and feelings, as they occur, moment by moment.
Hello, I'm Dr. Chris Chroniak. For 38 years I have assisted individuals struggling with depression, stress and anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, divorce, OCD, a relationship or lack of one, as well as numerous other psychological and emotional issues. I begin therapy by developing a warm and genuine relationship with my client. We then work together to explore and work through the underlying issues that block growth and cause pain or discomfort. I also teach my clients practical and effective tools that help them deal with painful and troubling thoughts and feelings, as they occur, moment by moment.
(773) 219-2056 View (773) 219-2056
Photo of Nancy Gordon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Nancy Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Imagery can help reduce emotional/physical symptoms including stress, anxiety, depression, and pain, as well as eliminate habits like smoking and overeating.
INSIGHT, SKILLS, SUPPORT. Strength-based. Solution focused. I work with clients of all ages using cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based therapies along with guided imagery, dreamwork, and art. I believe that mindfulness can help to reduce negative thinking, worrying and self-criticism. These are bad habits - and they can be changed. I am skilled at teaching children/adults how to be more mindful instead of getting caught up in harmful, unproductive thoughts that lead to self defeating actions.
Imagery can help reduce emotional/physical symptoms including stress, anxiety, depression, and pain, as well as eliminate habits like smoking and overeating.
INSIGHT, SKILLS, SUPPORT. Strength-based. Solution focused. I work with clients of all ages using cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based therapies along with guided imagery, dreamwork, and art. I believe that mindfulness can help to reduce negative thinking, worrying and self-criticism. These are bad habits - and they can be changed. I am skilled at teaching children/adults how to be more mindful instead of getting caught up in harmful, unproductive thoughts that lead to self defeating actions.
(773) 234-3943 View (773) 234-3943
Photo of Greg Rosen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Greg Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615
In addition to seeing a wide range of clients, I have two areas of specialization: 1) Intensive psychotherapy of 'severe mental illness' and personality disorders (with or without medications) including schizophrenia, bi-polar, or borderline personality disorder.
Do you know what you need to do or think, but still can't do it? Do you understand how to move forward but find yourself stuck nonetheless? Maybe you have medically unexplained health problems, or doctors telling you it's in your head? These are some of the reasons people seek psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 20 years in various settings including a university student counseling center and public mental health clinics for the seriously mentally ill and have effectively worked with clients struggling with conditions ranging from adjustment disorders (reactions to stress) to schizophrenia.
In addition to seeing a wide range of clients, I have two areas of specialization: 1) Intensive psychotherapy of 'severe mental illness' and personality disorders (with or without medications) including schizophrenia, bi-polar, or borderline personality disorder.
Do you know what you need to do or think, but still can't do it? Do you understand how to move forward but find yourself stuck nonetheless? Maybe you have medically unexplained health problems, or doctors telling you it's in your head? These are some of the reasons people seek psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 20 years in various settings including a university student counseling center and public mental health clinics for the seriously mentally ill and have effectively worked with clients struggling with conditions ranging from adjustment disorders (reactions to stress) to schizophrenia.
(773) 752-8808 View (773) 752-8808
Photo of Mindy Elizabeth Levin-Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Mindy Elizabeth Levin-Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I work with adults who are suffering from a multitude of mental health issues, chronic illness, Loss, PTSD, and transitions.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families for 29 years. While I received my degrees many years ago and much has changed in my field, I have stayed current in my knowledge of Psychology. I provide therapy to people who are experiencing stress, change and discomfort in their current life. I work with diverse populations with a variety of needs. I visualize therapy as a partnership: you define your goals and we develop ways to help you experience the joy in life, that everyone deserves.
I work with adults who are suffering from a multitude of mental health issues, chronic illness, Loss, PTSD, and transitions.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families for 29 years. While I received my degrees many years ago and much has changed in my field, I have stayed current in my knowledge of Psychology. I provide therapy to people who are experiencing stress, change and discomfort in their current life. I work with diverse populations with a variety of needs. I visualize therapy as a partnership: you define your goals and we develop ways to help you experience the joy in life, that everyone deserves.
(708) 887-2158 View (708) 887-2158
Photo of Sarah Razo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Sarah Razo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60630
Life pulls us in all different directions. Sometimes the direction is exciting and sometimes it's overwhelming. I'd be honored to help you walk through the parts of life that feel like too much. I specialize in working with people dealing with trauma, chronic illness, grief, and people who care for others. I work with a trauma informed approach and somatic approach to help you reach your goals.
Life pulls us in all different directions. Sometimes the direction is exciting and sometimes it's overwhelming. I'd be honored to help you walk through the parts of life that feel like too much. I specialize in working with people dealing with trauma, chronic illness, grief, and people who care for others. I work with a trauma informed approach and somatic approach to help you reach your goals.
(773) 378-9382 View (773) 378-9382

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.