Chronic Pain Therapists in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA

Photo of Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Dr. Robert Heller, Psychologist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Dr. Robert Heller
Psychologist, EdD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135
Hypnosis can be very useful with improving self esteem, sleep, motivation, concentration and managing pain.
Suffering from anxiety, depression, anger, fear, or worry? Problems with relationships? Seeking relief from chronic health issues? With over 38 years of clinical experience with hundreds of clients and advanced training with some of the world's top leaders in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Hypnosis and EMDR, I can provide you with tools and skills you can use NOW to overcome life's toughest challenges so you can lead a healthier, happier and more satisfying life. Call Dr. Robert Heller at 561-451-2731 for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, email drrobertheller at gmail.com or visit www.cognitivetherapyfl.com. Licensed in FL, MA, NC
Hypnosis can be very useful with improving self esteem, sleep, motivation, concentration and managing pain.
Suffering from anxiety, depression, anger, fear, or worry? Problems with relationships? Seeking relief from chronic health issues? With over 38 years of clinical experience with hundreds of clients and advanced training with some of the world's top leaders in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Hypnosis and EMDR, I can provide you with tools and skills you can use NOW to overcome life's toughest challenges so you can lead a healthier, happier and more satisfying life. Call Dr. Robert Heller at 561-451-2731 for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, email drrobertheller at gmail.com or visit www.cognitivetherapyfl.com. Licensed in FL, MA, NC
(561) 287-6059 View (561) 287-6059
Photo of Michelle Hansen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Michelle Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LADC, CCS, LCSW, LICSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stressed and having trouble finding effective ways to cope? Are you worried that your mental health symptoms are impacting your ability to reach your goals or have healthy relationships? For over a decade, I have been providing counseling to help people deal more effectively with stress and mental health symptoms while moving toward what they truly value. I can help you set meaningful goals and make measurable progress toward these goals. I am comfortable working with people from diverse backgrounds and experiencing a variety of problems.
Are you feeling stressed and having trouble finding effective ways to cope? Are you worried that your mental health symptoms are impacting your ability to reach your goals or have healthy relationships? For over a decade, I have been providing counseling to help people deal more effectively with stress and mental health symptoms while moving toward what they truly value. I can help you set meaningful goals and make measurable progress toward these goals. I am comfortable working with people from diverse backgrounds and experiencing a variety of problems.
(207) 857-7819 View (207) 857-7819
Photo of Brian O'Keefe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Brian O'Keefe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02215  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Brian (preferred pronouns: he/him/his) and I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker working as a therapist in the Boston area for over seven years. I've worked with clients across the lifespan, and am especially passionate working with millennial's (ages 18-40) who struggle with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and ADHD. I also focus on clients dealing with eco anxiety, climate anxiety, and solastalgia. My experience includes working in outpatient mental health settings such as community mental health centers, Boston Public Schools, a therapeutic day school, and as a Clinical Supervisor.
Hello, I'm Brian (preferred pronouns: he/him/his) and I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker working as a therapist in the Boston area for over seven years. I've worked with clients across the lifespan, and am especially passionate working with millennial's (ages 18-40) who struggle with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and ADHD. I also focus on clients dealing with eco anxiety, climate anxiety, and solastalgia. My experience includes working in outpatient mental health settings such as community mental health centers, Boston Public Schools, a therapeutic day school, and as a Clinical Supervisor.
(617) 544-2390 View (617) 544-2390
Photo of Andrew B Schmidt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Andrew B Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02134
Struggling with anxiety or depression? Dealing with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)? Recovering from a traumatic experience (PTSD)? Stuck in an unhealthy routine? With 15+ years of experience, I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in a supportive environment, encouraging change at a pace that feels right for you. I am highly skilled with CBT and have extensive training with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and other exposure based approaches.
Struggling with anxiety or depression? Dealing with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)? Recovering from a traumatic experience (PTSD)? Stuck in an unhealthy routine? With 15+ years of experience, I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in a supportive environment, encouraging change at a pace that feels right for you. I am highly skilled with CBT and have extensive training with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and other exposure based approaches.
(646) 846-1178 View (646) 846-1178
Photo of Alexis Counseling, Counselor in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Alexis Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
It can be very frustrating when you find yourself dragging along in life with little to no motivation or when you've been worrying about things in life and just unable to make a move. You might ask yourself when will things change and wonder how? That's exactly the dillema my clients struggle with. I want my clients to not just get through life, but to flourish. I hope to help you to make positive changes in your life so that eventually you feel confident outside of therapy.
It can be very frustrating when you find yourself dragging along in life with little to no motivation or when you've been worrying about things in life and just unable to make a move. You might ask yourself when will things change and wonder how? That's exactly the dillema my clients struggle with. I want my clients to not just get through life, but to flourish. I hope to help you to make positive changes in your life so that eventually you feel confident outside of therapy.
(617) 682-9096 View (617) 682-9096
Photo of Linda Marks in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Linda Marks
MSM
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Embrace the power of your heart: the heart's electical field is 60 times/magnetic field is 5000 times more powerful than the brain's. When our hearts are wounded through trauma, neglect or deprivation, we lose touch with the heart's power. Depression, anxiety, fear of intimacy, addiction, stuckness may follow. Building on a foundation of emotional safety, my work incorporates meditation, attending to emotional currents/body sensations and touch with permission to facilitate emotional work. Results include greater self-esteem, self-care, reduced stress/anxiety, authentic communication, healthier relationships, empowerment, healing. Intimacy/sexuality, money issues, parenting, GLBTP. Life coaching. Emotional for creative artists.
Embrace the power of your heart: the heart's electical field is 60 times/magnetic field is 5000 times more powerful than the brain's. When our hearts are wounded through trauma, neglect or deprivation, we lose touch with the heart's power. Depression, anxiety, fear of intimacy, addiction, stuckness may follow. Building on a foundation of emotional safety, my work incorporates meditation, attending to emotional currents/body sensations and touch with permission to facilitate emotional work. Results include greater self-esteem, self-care, reduced stress/anxiety, authentic communication, healthier relationships, empowerment, healing. Intimacy/sexuality, money issues, parenting, GLBTP. Life coaching. Emotional for creative artists.
(857) 239-0063 View (857) 239-0063
Photo of Sarah Vasiliauskas, Psychologist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Sarah Vasiliauskas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135
** AT THIS TIME I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** It can be so overwhelming to look for a therapist. So many options and decisions when you simply want to be helped during a difficult time in your life. You may be feeling stressed, sad, angry or just not yourself. Simply put, therapy is a unique and unusual experience; at times it can feel uncomfortable talking to a person you have just met. I encourage you to email me or call for a phone consultation. There is never any obligation following the phone call. It may be helpful to visit my website.
** AT THIS TIME I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** It can be so overwhelming to look for a therapist. So many options and decisions when you simply want to be helped during a difficult time in your life. You may be feeling stressed, sad, angry or just not yourself. Simply put, therapy is a unique and unusual experience; at times it can feel uncomfortable talking to a person you have just met. I encourage you to email me or call for a phone consultation. There is never any obligation following the phone call. It may be helpful to visit my website.
(617) 702-4166 View (617) 702-4166
Photo of Linda Fleger-Berman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Linda Fleger-Berman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135
Together we can discover and develop your inherent strengths so that you can heal, recover, grow and live a fulfilling life. Offering a mature, warm and trusting therapeutic relationship, I take an eclectic approach: integrating Clinical Hypnosis, Psychodynamic therapy, Attachment based therapy (click above on website for details), Bioenergetics, and EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing). Understanding that healing has a spiritual dimension, I have practiced meditation for 14 yrs. Adolescents, Adults and Elderly. Individuals, Couples and Families. Resolve Relationship issues,Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and Abuse,Addictions and Co-dependence, Loss and Grief. Realize creative potential and more. The first step is the hardest. Call (617)738-9480.
Together we can discover and develop your inherent strengths so that you can heal, recover, grow and live a fulfilling life. Offering a mature, warm and trusting therapeutic relationship, I take an eclectic approach: integrating Clinical Hypnosis, Psychodynamic therapy, Attachment based therapy (click above on website for details), Bioenergetics, and EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing). Understanding that healing has a spiritual dimension, I have practiced meditation for 14 yrs. Adolescents, Adults and Elderly. Individuals, Couples and Families. Resolve Relationship issues,Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and Abuse,Addictions and Co-dependence, Loss and Grief. Realize creative potential and more. The first step is the hardest. Call (617)738-9480.
(617) 841-8478 View (617) 841-8478
Photo of Heydon Hensley: Adults and Teens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Heydon Hensley: Adults and Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, They, Them
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135
I'm a non-binary, white Transperson who works with adults, teens, and families. I specialize in providing trauma-informed therapy focused on communal liberation, working with LGBTIQA+/Queer folks and people that have experienced trauma and violence. In my work, I draw on Boston Liberation Health therapy, an approach which contextualizes mental health within larger frameworks in order to set achievable and meaningful short- and long-term goals. My trauma-informed approach also pulls tools from several other modalities to meet each person’s unique needs & goals. See if I'm accepting new clients: www.resolutioncc.com/team
I'm a non-binary, white Transperson who works with adults, teens, and families. I specialize in providing trauma-informed therapy focused on communal liberation, working with LGBTIQA+/Queer folks and people that have experienced trauma and violence. In my work, I draw on Boston Liberation Health therapy, an approach which contextualizes mental health within larger frameworks in order to set achievable and meaningful short- and long-term goals. My trauma-informed approach also pulls tools from several other modalities to meet each person’s unique needs & goals. See if I'm accepting new clients: www.resolutioncc.com/team
(201) 379-1460 View (201) 379-1460
Photo of Thea Rowan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Thea Rowan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135
I provide DBT and CBT. I work with adults 18-65, and have additional experience with older adults 65+. Although it may not always feel like it, I believe that we all possess inner strengths and resources.
I provide DBT and CBT. I work with adults 18-65, and have additional experience with older adults 65+. Although it may not always feel like it, I believe that we all possess inner strengths and resources.
(774) 713-8598 View (774) 713-8598
Photo of Elizabeth Olson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Elizabeth Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Elizabeth "Liz" Olson is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who specializes in treating life changes, grief and loss, stress, and caregiver issues. Liz has 10 years of experience in the mental health field. She completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Human Development and Social Relations at Earlham College and her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Boston University School of Social Work.
Elizabeth "Liz" Olson is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who specializes in treating life changes, grief and loss, stress, and caregiver issues. Liz has 10 years of experience in the mental health field. She completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Human Development and Social Relations at Earlham College and her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Boston University School of Social Work.
(617) 544-2572 View (617) 544-2572
Photo of Wilson Bezerra Flanders, Counselor in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Wilson Bezerra Flanders
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
My ideal client would be someone is interested to improve his/her thinking, emotional state and general functioning. My ideal client would also be someone who is open and motivated for change and to become the best version him/herself them/themselves.
My ideal client would be someone is interested to improve his/her thinking, emotional state and general functioning. My ideal client would also be someone who is open and motivated for change and to become the best version him/herself them/themselves.
(415) 965-0931 View (415) 965-0931
Photo of Rachel Holmes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Rachel Holmes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135
As a clinician, I aim to be a point of guidance, trust, and support for the communities and individuals who need it most. I work with individuals to help cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem, substance use, and more. I work with a wide range of clients, from adolescents to adults, to help them move through life's challenges with understanding, compassion, and the confidence they need. I utilize techniques including CBT and Motivational Interviewing, while keeping a focus on harm reduction and trauma informed care. I hope to provide a warm, non-judgmental and empathetic space for all the clients I work with.
As a clinician, I aim to be a point of guidance, trust, and support for the communities and individuals who need it most. I work with individuals to help cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem, substance use, and more. I work with a wide range of clients, from adolescents to adults, to help them move through life's challenges with understanding, compassion, and the confidence they need. I utilize techniques including CBT and Motivational Interviewing, while keeping a focus on harm reduction and trauma informed care. I hope to provide a warm, non-judgmental and empathetic space for all the clients I work with.
(617) 917-2918 View (617) 917-2918
Photo of Marie C Morgan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Marie C Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I believe in offering an integrated therapeutic approach, one that incorporates a variety of healing methods tailored to your individual needs. My style is warm, compassionate, and thoughtful. I aim to offer a calming presence that will carefully help you navigate your path forward. Clients often share that they feel comfortable with me right away. Together, in a safe and supportive space, we can support your development toward a healthier you in mind, body, and spirit.
Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I believe in offering an integrated therapeutic approach, one that incorporates a variety of healing methods tailored to your individual needs. My style is warm, compassionate, and thoughtful. I aim to offer a calming presence that will carefully help you navigate your path forward. Clients often share that they feel comfortable with me right away. Together, in a safe and supportive space, we can support your development toward a healthier you in mind, body, and spirit.
(351) 666-5921 View (351) 666-5921

Online Therapists

Photo of Molly Williamson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Molly Williamson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience treating young adults and adults coping with chronic disease or illness, anxiety, depression, existential stress, life transitions, and interpersonal relationship challenges.
I am accepting new clients! I am able to see clients virtually in MA, and in-person/virtually in AZ. Are you looking to make or adjust to a change? Explore your identity and values? Grieve a loss, or losses? My goal for our work together is to help discover ways for you to live a better, more authentic life. If you are looking for support in coping with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, academic/career concerns, or relationship difficulties, my practice might be right for you. I hope together we can work to enhance your coping, self-care, problem solving, and communication skills.
I have experience treating young adults and adults coping with chronic disease or illness, anxiety, depression, existential stress, life transitions, and interpersonal relationship challenges.
I am accepting new clients! I am able to see clients virtually in MA, and in-person/virtually in AZ. Are you looking to make or adjust to a change? Explore your identity and values? Grieve a loss, or losses? My goal for our work together is to help discover ways for you to live a better, more authentic life. If you are looking for support in coping with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, academic/career concerns, or relationship difficulties, my practice might be right for you. I hope together we can work to enhance your coping, self-care, problem solving, and communication skills.
(617) 850-9553 View (617) 850-9553
Photo of Paragon Mental Health Counseling, Counselor in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Paragon Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02111  (Online Only)
My specialties include helping clients presenting with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, physical disability, chronic health issues, chronic pain, and college-aged/ emerging adults coping with difficult life adjustments.
Are you exhausted by the daily struggle of living with depression, anxiety, or self-esteem issues? Does academic stress or entering into adulthood feel like an impossible challenge? Do you live with chronic pain, disability, or health conditions that cause emotional distress or feelings of isolation? Our mission is to excel at facilitating the positive change and healing you've been needing in your life. We achieve this not only with talk-therapy, but also by teaching applicable skills and coping strategies to be used daily as you navigate through adversity and strive for self-growth.
My specialties include helping clients presenting with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, physical disability, chronic health issues, chronic pain, and college-aged/ emerging adults coping with difficult life adjustments.
Are you exhausted by the daily struggle of living with depression, anxiety, or self-esteem issues? Does academic stress or entering into adulthood feel like an impossible challenge? Do you live with chronic pain, disability, or health conditions that cause emotional distress or feelings of isolation? Our mission is to excel at facilitating the positive change and healing you've been needing in your life. We achieve this not only with talk-therapy, but also by teaching applicable skills and coping strategies to be used daily as you navigate through adversity and strive for self-growth.
(339) 220-5568 View (339) 220-5568
Photo of Ilana Marram, Counselor in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Ilana Marram
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Some of my identities include: cis-woman, white, neurodivergent, secular Jewish, with chronic pain, and significant personal life experience with the trans community.
Taking New Clients! Are you questioning your gender? Or just looking for a gender affirming therapist to process feeling burnt out from the last few years (who wouldn't!)? Maybe you're noticing difficulty coping with anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD and/or anger. Feeling like it's difficult getting your daily tasks done due to feeling overwhelmed, difficulty focusing, and feeling unable to say no to others.
Some of my identities include: cis-woman, white, neurodivergent, secular Jewish, with chronic pain, and significant personal life experience with the trans community.
Taking New Clients! Are you questioning your gender? Or just looking for a gender affirming therapist to process feeling burnt out from the last few years (who wouldn't!)? Maybe you're noticing difficulty coping with anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD and/or anger. Feeling like it's difficult getting your daily tasks done due to feeling overwhelmed, difficulty focusing, and feeling unable to say no to others.
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Photo of Collaborative Health Psychology, Psychologist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Collaborative Health Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
I am a clinical health psychologist who specializes in treating people coping with anxiety, chronic pain, stress, medical issues, mood disorders, and difficulties adjusting to life changes. I believe that each person is unique, and therefore no one approach is right for everyone. I strive to integrate a variety of techniques and perspectives from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness based therapies, relaxation training, biofeedback, clinical hypnotherapy, and supportive therapy to create a treatment that is tailored to the individual I am working with. For more information please visit my website at collaborativehealthpsychology.com
I am a clinical health psychologist who specializes in treating people coping with anxiety, chronic pain, stress, medical issues, mood disorders, and difficulties adjusting to life changes. I believe that each person is unique, and therefore no one approach is right for everyone. I strive to integrate a variety of techniques and perspectives from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness based therapies, relaxation training, biofeedback, clinical hypnotherapy, and supportive therapy to create a treatment that is tailored to the individual I am working with. For more information please visit my website at collaborativehealthpsychology.com
(617) 444-9055 View (617) 444-9055
Photo of Chelsey Solar, Psychologist in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Chelsey Solar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109
As a clinical health psychologist, I have specific expertise in working with adults with health concerns, rare medical illnesses, and/or chronic illness.
As we go through life, we can find ourselves feeling “stuck” in patterns or situations that limit satisfaction and create barriers to achieving our goals. Sometimes these patterns develop slowly over time and sometimes circumstances shift rapidly – leaving us overwhelmed and unsure of where to go next. I believe the role of psychotherapy is to create an open and affirming space to explore patterns with compassion and curiosity, clarify values, and make progress towards living an authentic and fulfilling life.
As a clinical health psychologist, I have specific expertise in working with adults with health concerns, rare medical illnesses, and/or chronic illness.
As we go through life, we can find ourselves feeling “stuck” in patterns or situations that limit satisfaction and create barriers to achieving our goals. Sometimes these patterns develop slowly over time and sometimes circumstances shift rapidly – leaving us overwhelmed and unsure of where to go next. I believe the role of psychotherapy is to create an open and affirming space to explore patterns with compassion and curiosity, clarify values, and make progress towards living an authentic and fulfilling life.
(617) 315-8856 View (617) 315-8856
Photo of Margaret Reilly, Counselor in Allston-Brighton, Boston, MA
Margaret Reilly
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02129
Looking for a therapist who understands? I am a seasoned clinician with over 30 years of experience working with a wide variety of people across a broad spectrum of life circumstances, including individuals with chronic medical concerns and/or physical disabilities. Some of the conditions I treat include depression, anxiety, complex trauma, PTSD, chronic medical issues/chronic pain, grief/loss, aging, phase of life transitions, autism spectrum disorders, and intellectual disabilities.
Looking for a therapist who understands? I am a seasoned clinician with over 30 years of experience working with a wide variety of people across a broad spectrum of life circumstances, including individuals with chronic medical concerns and/or physical disabilities. Some of the conditions I treat include depression, anxiety, complex trauma, PTSD, chronic medical issues/chronic pain, grief/loss, aging, phase of life transitions, autism spectrum disorders, and intellectual disabilities.
(781) 660-1103 x325 View (781) 660-1103 x325

See more therapy options for Allston-Brighton, Boston

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.