Photo of Mirror Mental Health, Psychologist in Gambrills, MD
Mirror Mental Health
Psychologist, PysD
Verified Verified
Gambrills, MD 21054
Mirror Mental Health is here to help you navigate the bumps, detours, and overwhelming moments that come along in life's journey. It is our team's goal to help clients identify their strengths, realize their resiliency, and help them celebrate and honor their authenticity. We work with a wide range of clients from those struggling with depression/anxiety, trauma, psychosis, relationship/family issues, or just feeling lost. At Mirror Mental Health we do not treat a diagnosis, but see a person who is suffering and help that person.
Mirror Mental Health is here to help you navigate the bumps, detours, and overwhelming moments that come along in life's journey. It is our team's goal to help clients identify their strengths, realize their resiliency, and help them celebrate and honor their authenticity. We work with a wide range of clients from those struggling with depression/anxiety, trauma, psychosis, relationship/family issues, or just feeling lost. At Mirror Mental Health we do not treat a diagnosis, but see a person who is suffering and help that person.
(667) 307-7032 View (667) 307-7032

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ann Aspnes, Psychologist in Gambrills, MD
Ann Aspnes
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Severna Park, MD 21146
You have probably tried therapy before, but you're still hurting. You still feel stuck. I work differently than traditional therapists - using Evidence Based Psychotherapies - treatments proven to work by research. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) are based in brain science. We can retrain your brain. We can work to build new coping skills and a different approach to emotional pain. Research shows these therapies work to help people like you feel more calm and connected to their lives. You can feel better. You can live better!
You have probably tried therapy before, but you're still hurting. You still feel stuck. I work differently than traditional therapists - using Evidence Based Psychotherapies - treatments proven to work by research. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) are based in brain science. We can retrain your brain. We can work to build new coping skills and a different approach to emotional pain. Research shows these therapies work to help people like you feel more calm and connected to their lives. You can feel better. You can live better!
(410) 267-4076 View (410) 267-4076
Photo of Mary Lesser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gambrills, MD
Mary Lesser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Edgewater, MD 21037  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a wholistic approach to psychotherapy. I am interested in helping families heal from disagreement, emotional pain, trauma, loss and change through the use of individual, couples, family, and group therapy. I believe that each one of us has a strong inner voice that we need to find and connect with in order to be well. When difficult feelings surface, our energy or connection to ourselves and others can become weakened and we feel drained or blocked from living to our fullest potential. I am eclectic in my approach. I seek to assist clients to understand their true potential.
I utilize a wholistic approach to psychotherapy. I am interested in helping families heal from disagreement, emotional pain, trauma, loss and change through the use of individual, couples, family, and group therapy. I believe that each one of us has a strong inner voice that we need to find and connect with in order to be well. When difficult feelings surface, our energy or connection to ourselves and others can become weakened and we feel drained or blocked from living to our fullest potential. I am eclectic in my approach. I seek to assist clients to understand their true potential.
(301) 852-6698 View (301) 852-6698
Photo of Regina Ann Warren, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Gambrills, MD
Regina Ann Warren
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ADS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Severna Park, MD 21146
Normal life events can be stressful when they exceed your ability to cope. Losses like the death of a loved one, separation/divorce, relocation or retirement, or an "empty nest" may threaten your emotional and physical health. Even positive events like marriage or the birth of a child require substantial adjustment. While small amounts of stress can be a positive motivator, prolonged exposure to stress may lead to anxiety, depression, and physical health problems. If you are feeling overwhelmed or unsure of how to cope with the demands placed on you, it is probably time to see a therapist.
Normal life events can be stressful when they exceed your ability to cope. Losses like the death of a loved one, separation/divorce, relocation or retirement, or an "empty nest" may threaten your emotional and physical health. Even positive events like marriage or the birth of a child require substantial adjustment. While small amounts of stress can be a positive motivator, prolonged exposure to stress may lead to anxiety, depression, and physical health problems. If you are feeling overwhelmed or unsure of how to cope with the demands placed on you, it is probably time to see a therapist.
(410) 417-6800 View (410) 417-6800
Photo of Valyra Bacigalupi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gambrills, MD
Valyra Bacigalupi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Edgewater, MD 21037
Valyra has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) for over 17 years and provides psychotherapy to Individuals, Couples, Families and Groups. Valyra feels to totally heal, one needs to treat the mind, body and soul, therefore looks at all levels of the client and is very eclectic. She uses the different trainings and techniques mentioned, which are then tailored to the clients' specific needs, in order for them to heal completely. Valyra is also a board approved supervisor therefore can provide you supervision for your hours. If Valyra does not take your insurance please call her and discuss her very reasonable rates.
Valyra has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) for over 17 years and provides psychotherapy to Individuals, Couples, Families and Groups. Valyra feels to totally heal, one needs to treat the mind, body and soul, therefore looks at all levels of the client and is very eclectic. She uses the different trainings and techniques mentioned, which are then tailored to the clients' specific needs, in order for them to heal completely. Valyra is also a board approved supervisor therefore can provide you supervision for your hours. If Valyra does not take your insurance please call her and discuss her very reasonable rates.
(301) 517-6172 View (301) 517-6172
Photo of Jessi Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gambrills, MD
Jessi Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Severna Park, MD 21146
Waitlist for new clients
If you are feeling stuck in a cycle of unhealthy thought patterns, plagued by the stress of strained relationships, or feeling overwhelmed by a change in your life, I would love to help you begin to increase your ability to cope and adapt to all that life has thrown at you. I genuinely enjoy building a trusting and friendly relationship with my clients. Our work together may look like taking time to process feelings, confronting difficult issues, and learning new, productive ways of handling life's many curveballs. The power of taking time for yourself and feeling heard by another person is often underestimated.
If you are feeling stuck in a cycle of unhealthy thought patterns, plagued by the stress of strained relationships, or feeling overwhelmed by a change in your life, I would love to help you begin to increase your ability to cope and adapt to all that life has thrown at you. I genuinely enjoy building a trusting and friendly relationship with my clients. Our work together may look like taking time to process feelings, confronting difficult issues, and learning new, productive ways of handling life's many curveballs. The power of taking time for yourself and feeling heard by another person is often underestimated.
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Photo of Karen Banks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gambrills, MD
Karen Banks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20721
I work with clients experiencing emotional, cultural, sexual health, and relationship concerns. We spend time processing your situation and feelings and finding solutions that work for you. I recognize each client is an individual and treat them as such. Let's work together to help you walk in your truth. I've completed all 3 levels of Gottman Method Couples Therapy training, Treating Affairs & Trauma, Couples and Addiction Recovery, CBT for Insomnia, and am enrolled in Sex Therapy Certification through SHA. I also enjoy working with people in poly and ethically non-monogamous relationships and individuals in the kink community.
I work with clients experiencing emotional, cultural, sexual health, and relationship concerns. We spend time processing your situation and feelings and finding solutions that work for you. I recognize each client is an individual and treat them as such. Let's work together to help you walk in your truth. I've completed all 3 levels of Gottman Method Couples Therapy training, Treating Affairs & Trauma, Couples and Addiction Recovery, CBT for Insomnia, and am enrolled in Sex Therapy Certification through SHA. I also enjoy working with people in poly and ethically non-monogamous relationships and individuals in the kink community.
(314) 279-3455 View (314) 279-3455

Online Therapists

Photo of Erin Etzel, Psychologist in Gambrills, MD
Erin Etzel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with people whose physical health conditions impact their mood, sleep, daily activities, relationships, and overall quality of life. I have extensive experience working with individuals living with chronic pain, fibromyalgia, or sleep disorders, as well as military veterans and trauma survivors. My ideal client is someone struggling in their experience of chronic physical illness and/or trauma survivorship who is looking for support and skills to help them live a more fulfilling life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with people whose physical health conditions impact their mood, sleep, daily activities, relationships, and overall quality of life. I have extensive experience working with individuals living with chronic pain, fibromyalgia, or sleep disorders, as well as military veterans and trauma survivors. My ideal client is someone struggling in their experience of chronic physical illness and/or trauma survivorship who is looking for support and skills to help them live a more fulfilling life.
(410) 618-0933 x1002 View (410) 618-0933 x1002
Photo of Carol Lee Hilewick Phd, Psychologist in Gambrills, MD
Carol Lee Hilewick Phd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902
My goal is to help patients learn to be responders and to be in charge of themselves. Throughout treatment, a functional medicine approach is employed. Care collaboration is valued. Patients with cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges benefit from a variety of cognitive behavioral, neurobehavioral, and psychophysiological modalities. Patients with such conditions as emotional and physical trauma, chronic pain, addictions, brain injuries and disorders (autism, Asperger's, ADD/ADHD, motor and balance challenges, for example), sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression are treated. Individuals with neurological, autoimmune, metabolic, endocrinological, and other complex medical conditions find that the treatment modalities promote healing.
My goal is to help patients learn to be responders and to be in charge of themselves. Throughout treatment, a functional medicine approach is employed. Care collaboration is valued. Patients with cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges benefit from a variety of cognitive behavioral, neurobehavioral, and psychophysiological modalities. Patients with such conditions as emotional and physical trauma, chronic pain, addictions, brain injuries and disorders (autism, Asperger's, ADD/ADHD, motor and balance challenges, for example), sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression are treated. Individuals with neurological, autoimmune, metabolic, endocrinological, and other complex medical conditions find that the treatment modalities promote healing.
(301) 327-2544 View (301) 327-2544
Photo of Noëlle Opsahl, Psychologist in Gambrills, MD
Noëlle Opsahl
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Hyattsville, MD 20782
Engaging in self-care is one of the most powerful choices we can make in our lives. Taking care of our mental health is one essential aspect of self-care. Choosing to address emotional pain can feel daunting. Ever imagine it could also feel rewarding? Psychotherapy can provide a unique opportunity to foster growth, compassion, and self-acceptance. As a clinical psychologist, my goal is to guide you on your personal journey, and help you embrace your most authentic self so you can live a life that’s meaningful to you and take value-based actions. Please visit my website to learn more: www.drnoelleopsahl.com
Engaging in self-care is one of the most powerful choices we can make in our lives. Taking care of our mental health is one essential aspect of self-care. Choosing to address emotional pain can feel daunting. Ever imagine it could also feel rewarding? Psychotherapy can provide a unique opportunity to foster growth, compassion, and self-acceptance. As a clinical psychologist, my goal is to guide you on your personal journey, and help you embrace your most authentic self so you can live a life that’s meaningful to you and take value-based actions. Please visit my website to learn more: www.drnoelleopsahl.com
(202) 519-8595 View (202) 519-8595
Photo of Authentically U Counseling, LLC - Marilyn Spenadel, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Gambrills, MD
Authentically U Counseling, LLC - Marilyn Spenadel
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, ACS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
I counsel (Adolescents & Adults), families with anxiety, phobias, panic attacks, self-esteem, Grief, health/illness, Childhood & Ancestral Traumas, communication issues.
WELCOME to your Therapeutic HOLISTIC WELLNESS ENRICHMENT CENTER. Do you want to learn to go with the flow DAILY, live in the here and now, and manage uncertainty? As an experienced Somatic Integrative Psychotherapist, Spiritual Coach I specialize in helping individuals gain insight and mind/body & spiritual strength. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can collaborate to help you accept feelings, let go of mind/body connections to stress, trauma, illness and triggers. Our body CERTAINLY hears what our mind says! By using healing techniques, you can let go of epigenetic traumas by their roots to become unstuck.
I counsel (Adolescents & Adults), families with anxiety, phobias, panic attacks, self-esteem, Grief, health/illness, Childhood & Ancestral Traumas, communication issues.
WELCOME to your Therapeutic HOLISTIC WELLNESS ENRICHMENT CENTER. Do you want to learn to go with the flow DAILY, live in the here and now, and manage uncertainty? As an experienced Somatic Integrative Psychotherapist, Spiritual Coach I specialize in helping individuals gain insight and mind/body & spiritual strength. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can collaborate to help you accept feelings, let go of mind/body connections to stress, trauma, illness and triggers. Our body CERTAINLY hears what our mind says! By using healing techniques, you can let go of epigenetic traumas by their roots to become unstuck.
(240) 426-8344 View (240) 426-8344
Photo of Ashley-Nicole N Sullivan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gambrills, MD
Ashley-Nicole N Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW, SAP, CTMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Timonium, MD 21093
Are you tired of feeling controlled by your anger, substance use, or toxic relationships? Do you feel as if getting out of bed is the hardest part of your day, feeling unable to make decisions and achieve your goals, or frustrated by chronic pain and illness? The first step in any journey is always the hardest, so congratulations on taking it and starting to consider participation in therapy. I would be honored to work with you to identify specifically what is and isn’t working in your life and discover how the skills and strengths you already possess can be applied in new ways to meet your goals.
Are you tired of feeling controlled by your anger, substance use, or toxic relationships? Do you feel as if getting out of bed is the hardest part of your day, feeling unable to make decisions and achieve your goals, or frustrated by chronic pain and illness? The first step in any journey is always the hardest, so congratulations on taking it and starting to consider participation in therapy. I would be honored to work with you to identify specifically what is and isn’t working in your life and discover how the skills and strengths you already possess can be applied in new ways to meet your goals.
(410) 376-8298 View (410) 376-8298
Photo of Dr. Philip A Thorn, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Gambrills, MD
Dr. Philip A Thorn
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20602
You may have thought about getting some counseling or coaching for a while. Please set your worries aside. There's not a person alive who couldn't benefit from professional guidance from time to time. Whether you are suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, sadness, anger, a loss of meaning in life, or a difficult relationship, I could be of help. Also, if you simply want to have less stress, a better marriage or improved motivation, I can help. While I do not accept insurance, my office will give you a claim form that you can submit to your insurer. Importantly, I also offer a sliding fee scale for consultation and coaching.
You may have thought about getting some counseling or coaching for a while. Please set your worries aside. There's not a person alive who couldn't benefit from professional guidance from time to time. Whether you are suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, sadness, anger, a loss of meaning in life, or a difficult relationship, I could be of help. Also, if you simply want to have less stress, a better marriage or improved motivation, I can help. While I do not accept insurance, my office will give you a claim form that you can submit to your insurer. Importantly, I also offer a sliding fee scale for consultation and coaching.
(301) 246-2918 View (301) 246-2918
Photo of Erin McConnell, Counselor in Gambrills, MD
Erin McConnell
Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LCPC, LCPAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
Waitlist for new clients
I also specialize in working with chronic illness, caregivers for persons with chronic illness or elderly family members, and end of life issues.
Are you craving change? Tired of letting fear and anxiety intrude on your life? Do you want to have more meaningful and authentic relationships? Counseling and therapy begins with a longing. Your longing might be for better relationships, more trust in yourself, less anxiety, feeling worthy and lovable, or feeling connected to your passion and purpose in life. I provide individual counseling for adults who are looking to create a future that is better than their past.
I also specialize in working with chronic illness, caregivers for persons with chronic illness or elderly family members, and end of life issues.
Are you craving change? Tired of letting fear and anxiety intrude on your life? Do you want to have more meaningful and authentic relationships? Counseling and therapy begins with a longing. Your longing might be for better relationships, more trust in yourself, less anxiety, feeling worthy and lovable, or feeling connected to your passion and purpose in life. I provide individual counseling for adults who are looking to create a future that is better than their past.
(240) 696-4127 View (240) 696-4127
Photo of Jennifer Manning Plassnig & Associates, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gambrills, MD
Jennifer Manning Plassnig & Associates, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, SEP, ACHt
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, MD 21163
To be human is to feel great joy, as well as have times of pain. Sometimes along the way, we may need support to address and re-balance the difficult and joyful aspects of our daily life. I listen closely to the needs and experiences of each individual and support his or her unique ability to heal. I believe that each of us has the intrinsic capacity to recognize how to grow in a healthy way. My approach to treatment is grounded in the belief that each person possesses innate, inner resources that they can use to heal, grow, and thrive.
To be human is to feel great joy, as well as have times of pain. Sometimes along the way, we may need support to address and re-balance the difficult and joyful aspects of our daily life. I listen closely to the needs and experiences of each individual and support his or her unique ability to heal. I believe that each of us has the intrinsic capacity to recognize how to grow in a healthy way. My approach to treatment is grounded in the belief that each person possesses innate, inner resources that they can use to heal, grow, and thrive.
(410) 775-5499 View (410) 775-5499
Photo of Chana Simmonds, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gambrills, MD
Chana Simmonds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21217
My office is a nurturing and safe setting in which you will be able to express your pain, your needs and be understood.
My ideal client (individual, couple) wants to move past or resolve issues that cause them to feel disappointed and unhappy. They want to have relationships, including sexual experiences , in which they feel connected, intimate and alive.
My office is a nurturing and safe setting in which you will be able to express your pain, your needs and be understood.
My ideal client (individual, couple) wants to move past or resolve issues that cause them to feel disappointed and unhappy. They want to have relationships, including sexual experiences , in which they feel connected, intimate and alive.
(551) 226-5601 View (551) 226-5601
Photo of Donica Harper, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Gambrills, MD
Donica Harper
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21015
Are you feeling invisible? Angry about a breakup? Have you recently experienced a loss/death? Do you feel misunderstood? Are you experiencing more pain, burnout, and/or fatigue than normal? Does your adolescent need extra support? Is your family/relationship falling apart? If your answer to any of these questions is "Yes," or even if you have questions of your own, it may be time to reach out and talk through those thoughts and feelings. I would be delighted to be the person you reach out to.
Are you feeling invisible? Angry about a breakup? Have you recently experienced a loss/death? Do you feel misunderstood? Are you experiencing more pain, burnout, and/or fatigue than normal? Does your adolescent need extra support? Is your family/relationship falling apart? If your answer to any of these questions is "Yes," or even if you have questions of your own, it may be time to reach out and talk through those thoughts and feelings. I would be delighted to be the person you reach out to.
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Photo of Wholesome Minds, LLC., Psychologist in Gambrills, MD
Wholesome Minds, LLC.
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901  (Online Only)
In therapy and coaching, our focus is on overall mental wellness and improving the mental health and mental capacity of individuals with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma, race-based issues, relationships, life transitions, somatic health, weight loss, pain related issues, and weight management.
We are a group practice of licensed clinical psychologists and social workers. Collectively, we have experience covering the developmental lifespan from assessing and treating young children with behavioral and learning concerns to working with adolescents and (young and older) adult clients who have issues navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, significant life stressors, and life transitions. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We work to achieve this by providing a safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing an individualized treatment plan.
In therapy and coaching, our focus is on overall mental wellness and improving the mental health and mental capacity of individuals with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma, race-based issues, relationships, life transitions, somatic health, weight loss, pain related issues, and weight management.
We are a group practice of licensed clinical psychologists and social workers. Collectively, we have experience covering the developmental lifespan from assessing and treating young children with behavioral and learning concerns to working with adolescents and (young and older) adult clients who have issues navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, significant life stressors, and life transitions. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We work to achieve this by providing a safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing an individualized treatment plan.
(301) 307-5730 View (301) 307-5730
Photo of Alyson Henry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gambrills, MD
Alyson Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286
My areas of specialty include depression, grief and loss, chronic health issues, chronic pain, trauma, and navigating non-traditional relationships including CNM, kink and relationship anarchy.
I know it can be hard to find someone who understands. I know life can be challenging and complicated. I know that navigating life off-map is scary, confusing, and exciting all at once. I’m here to help you find your way… My approach is to work as a partner in your healing journey as we explore your individual needs and help you to live life as your most authentic self.
My areas of specialty include depression, grief and loss, chronic health issues, chronic pain, trauma, and navigating non-traditional relationships including CNM, kink and relationship anarchy.
I know it can be hard to find someone who understands. I know life can be challenging and complicated. I know that navigating life off-map is scary, confusing, and exciting all at once. I’m here to help you find your way… My approach is to work as a partner in your healing journey as we explore your individual needs and help you to live life as your most authentic self.
(443) 251-3143 View (443) 251-3143
Photo of Tina Lightner-Morris, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Gambrills, MD
Tina Lightner-Morris
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, DMin, MS, LCPC, NBCC, IAYT-C
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702  (Online Only)
Thank You. We will design a healing journey that is uniquely yours! Specializing in trauma resolution and spiritually integrated psychotherapy. Working together considering all factors of mind, body, and spirit. Honoring chronic illness; reviewing your spiritual life or lack of; what you eat or don't; your thoughts and what you are afraid to think; how you move or are unable to move; what you vision for your-Self and what gets in the way. Acknowledging the great mystery of suffering and how to find meaning. Exploring your resiliency and your innate capacity to heal - seeking your strengths and what brings joy and happiness!
Thank You. We will design a healing journey that is uniquely yours! Specializing in trauma resolution and spiritually integrated psychotherapy. Working together considering all factors of mind, body, and spirit. Honoring chronic illness; reviewing your spiritual life or lack of; what you eat or don't; your thoughts and what you are afraid to think; how you move or are unable to move; what you vision for your-Self and what gets in the way. Acknowledging the great mystery of suffering and how to find meaning. Exploring your resiliency and your innate capacity to heal - seeking your strengths and what brings joy and happiness!
(301) 637-0477 View (301) 637-0477
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.