Photo of Natalie Lane Eden, Counselor in Libertyville, IL
Natalie Lane Eden
Counselor, MBA, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048  (Online Only)
Faith-based counseling from a Christian perspective is available. I am dedicated to providing you with confidential, compassionate & personalized treatment to meet your individual needs & goals. Focus is on empowering you to make better decisions, gain more insight, and embrace the challenges of life. I have offices in downtown Chicago and Pennsylvania. I also offer video teletherapy and phone counseling for those living in rural areas of Illinois and Pennsylvania. Persons from all backgrounds welcome.
Faith-based counseling from a Christian perspective is available. I am dedicated to providing you with confidential, compassionate & personalized treatment to meet your individual needs & goals. Focus is on empowering you to make better decisions, gain more insight, and embrace the challenges of life. I have offices in downtown Chicago and Pennsylvania. I also offer video teletherapy and phone counseling for those living in rural areas of Illinois and Pennsylvania. Persons from all backgrounds welcome.
(847) 278-2951 View (847) 278-2951
Photo of Active Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Libertyville, IL
Active Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
I have worked with a variety of clients and multiple issues. This includes adults, couples, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, family/relationship issues, and childhood and adolescent disorders. Having worked with a variety of different ethnicities and cultures including LGBTQ, I attempt to bring that cultural sensitivity to my practice. My work with clients includes helping them to identify patterns of problematic thought and behavior, and explore ways these patterns may have developed. My objective is to help clients find ways to enjoy and succeed in their lives.
I have worked with a variety of clients and multiple issues. This includes adults, couples, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, family/relationship issues, and childhood and adolescent disorders. Having worked with a variety of different ethnicities and cultures including LGBTQ, I attempt to bring that cultural sensitivity to my practice. My work with clients includes helping them to identify patterns of problematic thought and behavior, and explore ways these patterns may have developed. My objective is to help clients find ways to enjoy and succeed in their lives.
(773) 985-3407 View (773) 985-3407

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Howard K Weissman, Psychologist in Libertyville, IL
Howard K Weissman
Psychologist, PsyD, BCETS
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
Weissman is also well known in aiding those who struggle with chronic illness and chronic pain.
Are you stressed? Is your body speaking to you with hard to understand symptoms? There's a tension that remains when a task is incomplete. This tension is not only related to the projects we have yet to complete but also relates to the internal tension from not speaking our truth. Dr. Weissman is known for treating those with anxiety-based stress conditions like PTSD and OCD. His skills in mind body medicine and clinical psychology allow him to rapidly assess the depth and breath of stress in a person's life and in their life and to co-create an individualized treatment plan leading to greater self-care & personal empowerment.
Weissman is also well known in aiding those who struggle with chronic illness and chronic pain.
Are you stressed? Is your body speaking to you with hard to understand symptoms? There's a tension that remains when a task is incomplete. This tension is not only related to the projects we have yet to complete but also relates to the internal tension from not speaking our truth. Dr. Weissman is known for treating those with anxiety-based stress conditions like PTSD and OCD. His skills in mind body medicine and clinical psychology allow him to rapidly assess the depth and breath of stress in a person's life and in their life and to co-create an individualized treatment plan leading to greater self-care & personal empowerment.
(224) 246-8487 View (224) 246-8487
Photo of Cherry Hill Counseling in Libertyville, IL
Cherry Hill Counseling
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Cherry Hill provides a safe environment to restore relationships, recover from emotional pain, discover a sense of purpose, overcome habits, and create the life you've been longing for.
Cherry Hill Counseling is one of the longest-standing counseling practices in the Northwestern suburbs of Chicago. Cherry Hill has seven locations including: Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, McHenry, Deer Park, Chicago, Grayslake, and Wheaton. Our counseling services include: individual therapy, family therapy, counseling for children and adolescents, marital and premarital therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing.
Cherry Hill provides a safe environment to restore relationships, recover from emotional pain, discover a sense of purpose, overcome habits, and create the life you've been longing for.
Cherry Hill Counseling is one of the longest-standing counseling practices in the Northwestern suburbs of Chicago. Cherry Hill has seven locations including: Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, McHenry, Deer Park, Chicago, Grayslake, and Wheaton. Our counseling services include: individual therapy, family therapy, counseling for children and adolescents, marital and premarital therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing.
(847) 386-2109 View (847) 386-2109
Photo of Pam Meyerson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Libertyville, IL
Pam Meyerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
As an experienced therapist I have witnessed many clients overcome issues with relationships, infidelity, addiction and chronic pain.
You present yourself as having things all figured out when deep down inside you are feeling lost and vulnerable. You are scared because you have lived this way for so long and have never experienced more than temporary relief from it. Perhaps you have not been able to share how you really feel with friends or loved ones. Deep down inside you are exhausted and are ready to feel differently. You are ready to be vulnerable and live life differently with hope and passion. (I am licensed to practice in Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Florida and Washington State.)
As an experienced therapist I have witnessed many clients overcome issues with relationships, infidelity, addiction and chronic pain.
You present yourself as having things all figured out when deep down inside you are feeling lost and vulnerable. You are scared because you have lived this way for so long and have never experienced more than temporary relief from it. Perhaps you have not been able to share how you really feel with friends or loved ones. Deep down inside you are exhausted and are ready to feel differently. You are ready to be vulnerable and live life differently with hope and passion. (I am licensed to practice in Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Florida and Washington State.)
(561) 816-3122 View (561) 816-3122
Photo of Hanbit Lee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Libertyville, IL
Hanbit Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Grayslake, IL 60030
I am passionate about supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults who are experiencing life transitions, mood dysregulation, anxiety, trauma, and depression. I offer bilingual counseling in English and Korean. 한국어 상담 가능합니다.
I am passionate about supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults who are experiencing life transitions, mood dysregulation, anxiety, trauma, and depression. I offer bilingual counseling in English and Korean. 한국어 상담 가능합니다.
(224) 293-6018 View (224) 293-6018
Photo of The Good Life, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Libertyville, IL
The Good Life
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089  (Online Only)
Vanessa is a dedicated therapist in Chicago, holding a master's degree in Clinical Psychology and licensures as a Board Certified Dance Movement (BC-DMT) Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and is completing her doctorate in Expressive Arts Therapy. Vanessa radiates warmth and spunk. It’s not unusual for her clients to experience an array of emotions: crying, laughter, sadness, and hope; all within a single session.
Vanessa is a dedicated therapist in Chicago, holding a master's degree in Clinical Psychology and licensures as a Board Certified Dance Movement (BC-DMT) Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and is completing her doctorate in Expressive Arts Therapy. Vanessa radiates warmth and spunk. It’s not unusual for her clients to experience an array of emotions: crying, laughter, sadness, and hope; all within a single session.
(847) 499-1407 View (847) 499-1407
Photo of Ying Hsu, Licensed Professional Counselor in Libertyville, IL
Ying Hsu
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
Ying places a high priority on helping her clients overcome anxiety while developing a courageous and self-compassionate view of life. She enjoys helping each person discover how they can become their better self by discovering that they can do more than they ever believed possible, one step at a time. She uses the latest scientific approaches to anxiety, resilience building, and emotional self-regulation to help each client identify the beliefs, experiences, and challenges that make it difficult to overcome anxiety. She combines cognitive behavioral therapies, mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and ACT.
Ying places a high priority on helping her clients overcome anxiety while developing a courageous and self-compassionate view of life. She enjoys helping each person discover how they can become their better self by discovering that they can do more than they ever believed possible, one step at a time. She uses the latest scientific approaches to anxiety, resilience building, and emotional self-regulation to help each client identify the beliefs, experiences, and challenges that make it difficult to overcome anxiety. She combines cognitive behavioral therapies, mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and ACT.
(847) 242-2711 View (847) 242-2711
Photo of Mika Kondo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Libertyville, IL
Mika Kondo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089  (Online Only)
I have been honored to work with individuals and families since 1999. Life can at times be a bumpy ride, and sometimes we might feel stuck not knowing how to handle certain situations, but my core belief is that we all have the inner ability to make each life experience a growing opportunity. I support clients by using collaborative, compassionate, and culturally-sensitive approaches. I also incorporate mindfulness and gratitude and strive to offer clients a safe and caring space throughout their journey.
I have been honored to work with individuals and families since 1999. Life can at times be a bumpy ride, and sometimes we might feel stuck not knowing how to handle certain situations, but my core belief is that we all have the inner ability to make each life experience a growing opportunity. I support clients by using collaborative, compassionate, and culturally-sensitive approaches. I also incorporate mindfulness and gratitude and strive to offer clients a safe and caring space throughout their journey.
(224) 676-9800 x29 View (224) 676-9800 x29
Photo of Family Resilience Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Libertyville, IL
Family Resilience Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Ready to try something different? We are experts in Somatic Experiencing and Trauma. Family Resilience is a group of 13 seasoned therapists deeply trained in the latest technologies + 1 amazing nutritionist. We work together as a team, to wrap you in attention, support, humor and wisdom. Together we study the latest developments in research and techniques, mind and body. People have their faith in therapy renewed at Family Resilience. We specialize in complicated situations, couples and family work, trauma, anxiety, depression, yoga tx, eating issues, LGBTQA+, Christian tx, and offer a depth of diversity among the staff.
Ready to try something different? We are experts in Somatic Experiencing and Trauma. Family Resilience is a group of 13 seasoned therapists deeply trained in the latest technologies + 1 amazing nutritionist. We work together as a team, to wrap you in attention, support, humor and wisdom. Together we study the latest developments in research and techniques, mind and body. People have their faith in therapy renewed at Family Resilience. We specialize in complicated situations, couples and family work, trauma, anxiety, depression, yoga tx, eating issues, LGBTQA+, Christian tx, and offer a depth of diversity among the staff.
(847) 393-8908 View (847) 393-8908
Photo of Barbara Spaulding, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Libertyville, IL
Barbara Spaulding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Anxiety, Coach
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Are you living with anxiety and panic attacks? Is anxiety ruining your life? Does your stress seem to be more than usual? Anxiety is our bodys way of telling us that things are off balance. Avoiding activities and friends wont make it go away. It just makes it get stronger. Are you sick and tired of feeling on edge or scared? It is time to get free of the hold anxiety or panic has on you. You deserve a happiness.
Are you living with anxiety and panic attacks? Is anxiety ruining your life? Does your stress seem to be more than usual? Anxiety is our bodys way of telling us that things are off balance. Avoiding activities and friends wont make it go away. It just makes it get stronger. Are you sick and tired of feeling on edge or scared? It is time to get free of the hold anxiety or panic has on you. You deserve a happiness.
(224) 385-0692 View (224) 385-0692
Photo of Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry in Libertyville, IL
Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry
MD, BD Cert, NBPAS, ABPN
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
(847) 393-4392 View (847) 393-4392
Photo of Martin McCarthy Jr., Psychologist in Libertyville, IL
Martin McCarthy Jr.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
All of us -- women and men, young and old, poor, middle class and upscale folks, minorities and majorities -- have to deal with complexity. As a therapist I help heal hurts from the past, assist clients in managing present challenges, and work collaboratively to create more satisfying future lives. The people who see me for individual, couples and family therapy represent a culturally diverse group. Their difficulties range from anxiety and depression, to stress disorders, OCD/OCPD, relationship problems, employment issues, and bereavement. Many of these women and men report quick progress in better managing their personal, family, academic, and work lives.
All of us -- women and men, young and old, poor, middle class and upscale folks, minorities and majorities -- have to deal with complexity. As a therapist I help heal hurts from the past, assist clients in managing present challenges, and work collaboratively to create more satisfying future lives. The people who see me for individual, couples and family therapy represent a culturally diverse group. Their difficulties range from anxiety and depression, to stress disorders, OCD/OCPD, relationship problems, employment issues, and bereavement. Many of these women and men report quick progress in better managing their personal, family, academic, and work lives.
(847) 562-5895 View (847) 562-5895

Online Therapists

Photo of Joy Myong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Libertyville, IL
Joy Myong
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
Feeling crippled by anxiety, chronic pain, depression, an illness or injury? Know that you are not alone and help is available! Whether your struggle is addiction, ADHD, debilitating physical/emotional pain, or simply feeling lost, overwhelmed, helpless - it is possible to find your way back to feeling good again. We live in an amazing time where we can access a wide range of resources to bring our body-mind-soul into balance and align with a life of purpose and meaning.
Feeling crippled by anxiety, chronic pain, depression, an illness or injury? Know that you are not alone and help is available! Whether your struggle is addiction, ADHD, debilitating physical/emotional pain, or simply feeling lost, overwhelmed, helpless - it is possible to find your way back to feeling good again. We live in an amazing time where we can access a wide range of resources to bring our body-mind-soul into balance and align with a life of purpose and meaning.
(331) 239-1398 View (331) 239-1398
Photo of Chih-Hsien Lin, Counselor in Libertyville, IL
Chih-Hsien Lin
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BC-DMT, EMDR, MPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60660
I have specialized skills and know how to work with different movement dynamics, somatic contemplation, and the power of touch and mindfulness to release trauma, pain, anxiety, negative perceptions of self, and other types of developmental suffering.
Suffering is often the result of less than nurturing relationships and experiences. Fear can become imprisoned in the body. Family and culture can dictate how safe it is, or not safe, to express and be yourself. My immigrant experience from Taiwan allows me deeper empathy with people navigating life transitions and relating to different cultures and new relationships. At Embodied Way Psychotherapy PLLC, I strive to empower individuals within the context of systemic injustice and complications. My work is to provide compassion and wisdom so that you can feel fully alive and authentic in your body, your world and your relationships.
I have specialized skills and know how to work with different movement dynamics, somatic contemplation, and the power of touch and mindfulness to release trauma, pain, anxiety, negative perceptions of self, and other types of developmental suffering.
Suffering is often the result of less than nurturing relationships and experiences. Fear can become imprisoned in the body. Family and culture can dictate how safe it is, or not safe, to express and be yourself. My immigrant experience from Taiwan allows me deeper empathy with people navigating life transitions and relating to different cultures and new relationships. At Embodied Way Psychotherapy PLLC, I strive to empower individuals within the context of systemic injustice and complications. My work is to provide compassion and wisdom so that you can feel fully alive and authentic in your body, your world and your relationships.
(224) 601-5054 View (224) 601-5054
Photo of Dr. Rae Mazzei, Psychologist in Libertyville, IL
Dr. Rae Mazzei
Psychologist, PsyD, BCB
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I offer proven therapies with a focus on health psychology and specialize in treating PTSD/trauma, all forms of addiction, anxiety, phobias, illness anxiety, postpartum anxiety and depression, and insomnia.
Are you struggling with trauma, addiction, anxiety, or a phobia? As a Health Psychologist, I will help you heal and thrive by relying on proven psychological therapies. I firmly believe in each individual's capacity to overcome obstacles, particularly when provided with the right support to achieve their goals. Fostering a supportive relationship, I am committed to assisting you in alleviating suffering, recovering from past traumas, fostering positive neurological changes, and enhancing overall well-being. Collaboratively, we will delve into the core of your concerns and work towards creating a more fulfilling life.
I offer proven therapies with a focus on health psychology and specialize in treating PTSD/trauma, all forms of addiction, anxiety, phobias, illness anxiety, postpartum anxiety and depression, and insomnia.
Are you struggling with trauma, addiction, anxiety, or a phobia? As a Health Psychologist, I will help you heal and thrive by relying on proven psychological therapies. I firmly believe in each individual's capacity to overcome obstacles, particularly when provided with the right support to achieve their goals. Fostering a supportive relationship, I am committed to assisting you in alleviating suffering, recovering from past traumas, fostering positive neurological changes, and enhancing overall well-being. Collaboratively, we will delve into the core of your concerns and work towards creating a more fulfilling life.
(480) 485-2101 View (480) 485-2101
Photo of Alaina Bercilla, Licensed Professional Counselor in Libertyville, IL
Alaina Bercilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
My work as a therapist is guided by the values of authenticity and respect. I offer a safe and supportive environment for self-examination and growth, and work in partnership with you to determine your own unique needs for healing. I have experience supporting clients through life and career transitions, explorations of meaning and purpose, anxiety, depression, decision-making, concerns surrounding chronic illness and/or disability, and issues related to creative work and identity. When appropriate, I incorporate mindfulness and acceptance practices, and work from a trauma-informed lens that includes body-awareness.
My work as a therapist is guided by the values of authenticity and respect. I offer a safe and supportive environment for self-examination and growth, and work in partnership with you to determine your own unique needs for healing. I have experience supporting clients through life and career transitions, explorations of meaning and purpose, anxiety, depression, decision-making, concerns surrounding chronic illness and/or disability, and issues related to creative work and identity. When appropriate, I incorporate mindfulness and acceptance practices, and work from a trauma-informed lens that includes body-awareness.
(773) 281-7200 View (773) 281-7200
Photo of Jihye Choi, Pre-Licensed Professional in Libertyville, IL
Jihye Choi
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I combine evidence-based therapeutic approaches with Person-Centered Therapy to meet your unique needs and holistic ways to identify and treat the root causes of emotional pain rather than just alleviating symptoms with individuals' traits and values.
Hi! I am Jihye (pronounced Ji Hae). I believe everyone has their own "Twinkle Twinkle." This is my philosophy in therapy. I aim to kindle this twinkling light within you, to help you discover and connect with your Authentic self, a spark of divinity that is woven in your being in order to grow. Personal growth always helps you be alert, fully awakened to perceive your twinkle, which has always been there, and loyal to your full potential. I am working with individuals (adults) struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and trauma, and couples. I am also working with individuals who want spiritual counseling.
I combine evidence-based therapeutic approaches with Person-Centered Therapy to meet your unique needs and holistic ways to identify and treat the root causes of emotional pain rather than just alleviating symptoms with individuals' traits and values.
Hi! I am Jihye (pronounced Ji Hae). I believe everyone has their own "Twinkle Twinkle." This is my philosophy in therapy. I aim to kindle this twinkling light within you, to help you discover and connect with your Authentic self, a spark of divinity that is woven in your being in order to grow. Personal growth always helps you be alert, fully awakened to perceive your twinkle, which has always been there, and loyal to your full potential. I am working with individuals (adults) struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and trauma, and couples. I am also working with individuals who want spiritual counseling.
(224) 339-7336 View (224) 339-7336
Photo of Health and Healing Therapy PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Libertyville, IL
Health and Healing Therapy PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCPC, CADC, ICGC-II, BACC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bartlett, IL 60103
You are not alone. Whether you are unsure and struggling or ready to reach out for help for yourself, your child, teen or partner, we understand how difficult it is to have exhausted all your ideas and solutions. You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, unsure and upset about the unwanted things that have and are happening around you. We are here to help guide you and those you love to develop the insight, understanding, and skills necessary to make life better. All the stress, discomfort, and pain you now feel can reduce and life can be and feel less worrisome and stressful. You can be at peace, hopeful, healthy, and feel happy again.
You are not alone. Whether you are unsure and struggling or ready to reach out for help for yourself, your child, teen or partner, we understand how difficult it is to have exhausted all your ideas and solutions. You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, unsure and upset about the unwanted things that have and are happening around you. We are here to help guide you and those you love to develop the insight, understanding, and skills necessary to make life better. All the stress, discomfort, and pain you now feel can reduce and life can be and feel less worrisome and stressful. You can be at peace, hopeful, healthy, and feel happy again.
(331) 200-2325 View (331) 200-2325
Photo of Maira Iqbal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Libertyville, IL
Maira Iqbal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60659  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate trauma-informed therapist that primarily works with individuals struggling with trauma/PTSD, ADHD, neurodivergent issues, relationship issues, chronic pain, physical disability, partner violence, substance abuse, anxiety, stress, depression, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, and other issues. As a daughter of South Asian immigrants, I have always been interested in working with traditionally overlooked communities. I have worked with individuals with dual diagnosis, domestic violence survivors, veterans, and LGBTQIA individuals.
I am a compassionate trauma-informed therapist that primarily works with individuals struggling with trauma/PTSD, ADHD, neurodivergent issues, relationship issues, chronic pain, physical disability, partner violence, substance abuse, anxiety, stress, depression, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, and other issues. As a daughter of South Asian immigrants, I have always been interested in working with traditionally overlooked communities. I have worked with individuals with dual diagnosis, domestic violence survivors, veterans, and LGBTQIA individuals.
(224) 529-3669 View (224) 529-3669

See more therapy options for Libertyville

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.