Mari Wittum
Counselor, MSCP, LCPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I will provide a safe place, an open mind, a compassionate heart, and a listening ear. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or in a crisis? I will provide an appointment within 24 hours if needed. Not in a crisis but just need some life coaching, I will help with that too. I utilize an eclectic approach taking into account age, background, and the individual needs of each of my clients. In my 25+ years of experience I have assisted individuals, adolescents, couples, families when faced with challenges in journey of life.
I will provide a safe place, an open mind, a compassionate heart, and a listening ear. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or in a crisis? I will provide an appointment within 24 hours if needed. Not in a crisis but just need some life coaching, I will help with that too. I utilize an eclectic approach taking into account age, background, and the individual needs of each of my clients. In my 25+ years of experience I have assisted individuals, adolescents, couples, families when faced with challenges in journey of life.
(630) 796-4448 View (630) 796-4448
Photo of Goodman Psychologist Associates, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Goodman Psychologist Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
We are a child and family psychology practice. My associates and I believe in a cooperative treatment experience where client and therapist share responsibility for the identification and mutual direction of problem solving strategies. We are convinced of the importance of involving significant others in the treatment process when possible. Often children and adolescents react to problems in the context of school and family. We value feedback from teachers and staff professionals and look for collaborative relationships in pursuing the best needs of the child or adolescent.
We are a child and family psychology practice. My associates and I believe in a cooperative treatment experience where client and therapist share responsibility for the identification and mutual direction of problem solving strategies. We are convinced of the importance of involving significant others in the treatment process when possible. Often children and adolescents react to problems in the context of school and family. We value feedback from teachers and staff professionals and look for collaborative relationships in pursuing the best needs of the child or adolescent.
(630) 733-1852 View (630) 733-1852

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Health and Healing Therapy PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, 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 Cristol Klicker in Saint Charles, IL
Cristol Klicker
MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60123  (Online Only)
I believe that every individual and their unique experiences and circumstances matter. Your goals and needs are always at the forefront of our journey together. Whether it's relationships, grief and loss, stress, or new challenges in your life, I'm here to support you. You can confide in me, knowing that I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space. With a strong background in medical social work, I specialize in chronic illnesses, new diagnoses, grief and loss, and their impact on individuals and their families. Let's work together to create a secure and nurturing environment for your healing and growth.
I believe that every individual and their unique experiences and circumstances matter. Your goals and needs are always at the forefront of our journey together. Whether it's relationships, grief and loss, stress, or new challenges in your life, I'm here to support you. You can confide in me, knowing that I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space. With a strong background in medical social work, I specialize in chronic illnesses, new diagnoses, grief and loss, and their impact on individuals and their families. Let's work together to create a secure and nurturing environment for your healing and growth.
(331) 253-4781 View (331) 253-4781
Photo of Shaw Xueqi Xiao, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Shaw Xueqi Xiao
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60120  (Online Only)
I'm a licensed art therapist that is dedicated to nurturing culturally attuned care for the Asian and Asian-American communities. At the core of my practice is an unyielding belief in the transformative and healing power of art, a medium that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, inviting individuals from all walks of life to engage, express, and heal. I've embraced a diverse array of individuals, particularly championing the needs of people of color, immigrants, and minority groups, guiding them towards self-acceptance, gender affirmation, and a profound sense of self-worth.
I'm a licensed art therapist that is dedicated to nurturing culturally attuned care for the Asian and Asian-American communities. At the core of my practice is an unyielding belief in the transformative and healing power of art, a medium that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, inviting individuals from all walks of life to engage, express, and heal. I've embraced a diverse array of individuals, particularly championing the needs of people of color, immigrants, and minority groups, guiding them towards self-acceptance, gender affirmation, and a profound sense of self-worth.
(312) 313-0705 View (312) 313-0705
Photo of Deborah Danner, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Deborah Danner
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60120
You have had it and have reached your limits with all that is going on in your world. Our lives can sometimes feel like they are outside of our control. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, frustration, trauma, lack of motivation it is important for you to recognize you are capable of regaining control of your life. Together we will work towards helping you become more in control of your world. I offer in-person sessions on Monday's and virtual (tele-health) sessions during the week and on Saturday, and Sunday mornings.
You have had it and have reached your limits with all that is going on in your world. Our lives can sometimes feel like they are outside of our control. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, frustration, trauma, lack of motivation it is important for you to recognize you are capable of regaining control of your life. Together we will work towards helping you become more in control of your world. I offer in-person sessions on Monday's and virtual (tele-health) sessions during the week and on Saturday, and Sunday mornings.
(331) 208-5390 View (331) 208-5390

Online Therapists

Photo of Jihye Choi, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Charles, 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 Dr. Rae Mazzei, Psychologist in Saint Charles, 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 Jane Qin Chen, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Jane Qin Chen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
At some point in our lives we all experience the full force of life’s challenges. Sometimes the distress, pain, alienation or isolation is too intense for us to traverse life’s path alone. Yet, for many of us, asking for help or inviting others into our private world is equally difficult. I hope to convince you that therapy can help us understand conflicts underlying these challenges. Through insight, self-empowerment and enhanced emotional regulation, we can become more adaptive and begin to heal and grow in the face of challenges or transitions. Therapy can also help to cultivate a greater sense of meaning and purpose in our live.
At some point in our lives we all experience the full force of life’s challenges. Sometimes the distress, pain, alienation or isolation is too intense for us to traverse life’s path alone. Yet, for many of us, asking for help or inviting others into our private world is equally difficult. I hope to convince you that therapy can help us understand conflicts underlying these challenges. Through insight, self-empowerment and enhanced emotional regulation, we can become more adaptive and begin to heal and grow in the face of challenges or transitions. Therapy can also help to cultivate a greater sense of meaning and purpose in our live.
(773) 915-0445 View (773) 915-0445
Photo of Joy Myong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, 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 Saint Charles, 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 Alaina Bercilla, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, 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 Maira Iqbal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, 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
Photo of Jonah Czerwinskyj, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Charles, IL
Jonah Czerwinskyj
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60641
His expertise extends to helping those facing chronic illness and medical concerns adapt and develop effective strategies for managing their condition while maintaining a positive quality of life.
Jonah’s approach to therapy is founded on the principle of self-compassion. He firmly believes that building a foundation of self-love and understanding is the first step toward healing and growth. Jonah uses humanistic, cognitive behavioral, and dialectical behavioral therapies to help individuals in fostering self-acceptance, developing coping skills, and building resilience. Jonah helps people to identify their unique strengths to address the ongoing challenges they face.
His expertise extends to helping those facing chronic illness and medical concerns adapt and develop effective strategies for managing their condition while maintaining a positive quality of life.
Jonah’s approach to therapy is founded on the principle of self-compassion. He firmly believes that building a foundation of self-love and understanding is the first step toward healing and growth. Jonah uses humanistic, cognitive behavioral, and dialectical behavioral therapies to help individuals in fostering self-acceptance, developing coping skills, and building resilience. Jonah helps people to identify their unique strengths to address the ongoing challenges they face.
(773) 364-1918 View (773) 364-1918
Photo of Rashid A. Raja, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Rashid A. Raja
Psychologist, PsyD, BCPC, HSPP
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
THE SKYPE TREATMENT IS OFFERED AT EXTREMELY LOW FEE Emotional stress resulting from our own erroneous beliefs, problematic relationships, and stressful life circumstances can compromise our mental health. I firmly believe that my pragmatic therapeutic style and clinically proven treatment approaches can be highly instrumental in helping you learn effective ways to resolve your emotional pain, and develop practical skills and effective coping styles to ultimately take charge of your own mental health. The central focus of my practice is the treatment of Relationship Issues including Marital/Couples' Issues and Parent-Child Conflicts, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and Anger Control Problems.
THE SKYPE TREATMENT IS OFFERED AT EXTREMELY LOW FEE Emotional stress resulting from our own erroneous beliefs, problematic relationships, and stressful life circumstances can compromise our mental health. I firmly believe that my pragmatic therapeutic style and clinically proven treatment approaches can be highly instrumental in helping you learn effective ways to resolve your emotional pain, and develop practical skills and effective coping styles to ultimately take charge of your own mental health. The central focus of my practice is the treatment of Relationship Issues including Marital/Couples' Issues and Parent-Child Conflicts, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and Anger Control Problems.
(708) 942-8959 View (708) 942-8959
Photo of Valerie A Jencks, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Valerie A Jencks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
With over 30 years of clinical experience, Valerie takes a collaborative and direct approach to effectively create a safe space for families who face issues associated with chronic illness, divorce, eating disorders and addiction recovery. Some situations are best handled with traditional “talk” therapies, while other concerns may need more active interventions to modify an unproductive behavior pattern or lifestyle.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, Valerie takes a collaborative and direct approach to effectively create a safe space for families who face issues associated with chronic illness, divorce, eating disorders and addiction recovery. Some situations are best handled with traditional “talk” therapies, while other concerns may need more active interventions to modify an unproductive behavior pattern or lifestyle.
(630) 946-6715 View (630) 946-6715
Photo of Pam Meyerson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, 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 Rashid A Raja, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Rashid A Raja
Psychologist, PsyD, BCPC, LCPC, HSPP
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462  (Online Only)
I firmly believe that my pragmatic therapeutic style and clinically proven treatment approaches can be highly instrumental in helping you learn effective ways to resolve your emotional pain, and develop practical skills and effective coping styles to ultimately take charge of your own mental health and realize your life dreams.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and offer affordable Online Therapy charging unbelievably low professional fee to reach out to those who, due to their unique personal and financial limitations, are unable to seek expensive face-to-face psychotherapy treatment. The Online Therapy option has finally made it possible for you to seek treatment from the comfort of your own home or office and not to worry about traffic, travel time, or sitting in therapist's waiting room and, most of all, its a highly effective mode of treatment where you feel more at ease in the therapeutic process.
I firmly believe that my pragmatic therapeutic style and clinically proven treatment approaches can be highly instrumental in helping you learn effective ways to resolve your emotional pain, and develop practical skills and effective coping styles to ultimately take charge of your own mental health and realize your life dreams.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and offer affordable Online Therapy charging unbelievably low professional fee to reach out to those who, due to their unique personal and financial limitations, are unable to seek expensive face-to-face psychotherapy treatment. The Online Therapy option has finally made it possible for you to seek treatment from the comfort of your own home or office and not to worry about traffic, travel time, or sitting in therapist's waiting room and, most of all, its a highly effective mode of treatment where you feel more at ease in the therapeutic process.
(800) 994-6602 View (800) 994-6602
Photo of GreenPath Clinic, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
GreenPath Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
We provide excellent psychological and holistic care for patients struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, weight loss, infertility, and other psychological and medical problems. We prioritize medication-free approaches to treat patients' psychological and physical ailments. With collaborative efforts of psychologists, chiropractors, and a naturopathic physician, we get to the root of your mind and body problems naturally. As a multi-disciplinary team of holistically-oriented healthcare providers, we work together to create an effective, comprehensive treatment to provide lasting health optimizing solutions.
We provide excellent psychological and holistic care for patients struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, weight loss, infertility, and other psychological and medical problems. We prioritize medication-free approaches to treat patients' psychological and physical ailments. With collaborative efforts of psychologists, chiropractors, and a naturopathic physician, we get to the root of your mind and body problems naturally. As a multi-disciplinary team of holistically-oriented healthcare providers, we work together to create an effective, comprehensive treatment to provide lasting health optimizing solutions.
(630) 626-0473 View (630) 626-0473
Photo of Nia Integrative Healing, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Nia Integrative Healing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
We are wired with an affinity toward healing. Therapy is a powerful tool in attaining wellness. But what if we went beyond talk therapy by also integrating meditation and biofeedback to address trauma, depression, inattention and other areas of mental health? We will explore your intrinsic ability to harness the power of mindfulness and breath work to reduce chronic pain and other physical issues impacted by stress. We will tap into nutrition's significant role in mental health, including mood and memory. We are a team of psychological providers and a preventative care physician collaborating with you toward your healing journey.
We are wired with an affinity toward healing. Therapy is a powerful tool in attaining wellness. But what if we went beyond talk therapy by also integrating meditation and biofeedback to address trauma, depression, inattention and other areas of mental health? We will explore your intrinsic ability to harness the power of mindfulness and breath work to reduce chronic pain and other physical issues impacted by stress. We will tap into nutrition's significant role in mental health, including mood and memory. We are a team of psychological providers and a preventative care physician collaborating with you toward your healing journey.
(708) 628-5456 View (708) 628-5456

See more therapy options for Saint Charles

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.