Chronic Pain Therapists in Silver Spring, MD

Photo of Carol Lee Hilewick Phd, Psychologist in Silver Spring, 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 Mara Levy, Occupational Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Mara Levy
Occupational Therapist, MSOT, OTR/L, CLTLANA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
You deserve healing care that welcomes your whole self - care that’s fat positive, queer and trans affirming, anti-racist, kink and polyamory friendly, pagan welcoming, and generally anti-oppression. You may be living with medical trauma, or with chronic health conditions that have left you feeling gaslit and frustrated. You may be trying to survive in an oppressive system, or to make the world around you better. You may be looking to reconnect with your body or live more fully as yourself. You may be living with chronic pain or fatigue that make it hard to get through the day.
You deserve healing care that welcomes your whole self - care that’s fat positive, queer and trans affirming, anti-racist, kink and polyamory friendly, pagan welcoming, and generally anti-oppression. You may be living with medical trauma, or with chronic health conditions that have left you feeling gaslit and frustrated. You may be trying to survive in an oppressive system, or to make the world around you better. You may be looking to reconnect with your body or live more fully as yourself. You may be living with chronic pain or fatigue that make it hard to get through the day.
(301) 686-5458 View (301) 686-5458
Photo of Jennifer L Pauk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Jennifer L Pauk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20901
No matter our background or experience, we all hit a bump in the road at one point or another. Navigating challenging and stressful life events such as infertility, parenthood, academic and work transitions, relationships, trauma, chronic illness is complicated. Intense feelings of anxiety, panic, or depression may seem overwhelming an at times, we turn to short term solutions, such as procrastination, alcohol, etc, which lead us in the wrong direction. Working with clients I focus on clarifying what is important and meaningful in life and how to take steps to actively move in that direction - even when faced with challenges.
No matter our background or experience, we all hit a bump in the road at one point or another. Navigating challenging and stressful life events such as infertility, parenthood, academic and work transitions, relationships, trauma, chronic illness is complicated. Intense feelings of anxiety, panic, or depression may seem overwhelming an at times, we turn to short term solutions, such as procrastination, alcohol, etc, which lead us in the wrong direction. Working with clients I focus on clarifying what is important and meaningful in life and how to take steps to actively move in that direction - even when faced with challenges.
(202) 831-7718 View (202) 831-7718
Photo of Rebeca Rios, Psychologist in Silver Spring, MD
Rebeca Rios
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20912
If you have been struggling with a health concern such as pain, insomnia, or GI distress, you may feel demoralized by the limitations of medical treatments for many health issues. You may not know that psychotherapy is an effective treatment for a number of medical conditions. As a clinical health psychologist, I specialize in chronic illness, chronic pain, disorders of brain-gut interaction (DGBIs), health anxiety, insomnia, and stress related to navigating the health care system. Therapy can help you to quiet the brain’s natural threat response to symptoms, foster resilience, and embrace life once again.
If you have been struggling with a health concern such as pain, insomnia, or GI distress, you may feel demoralized by the limitations of medical treatments for many health issues. You may not know that psychotherapy is an effective treatment for a number of medical conditions. As a clinical health psychologist, I specialize in chronic illness, chronic pain, disorders of brain-gut interaction (DGBIs), health anxiety, insomnia, and stress related to navigating the health care system. Therapy can help you to quiet the brain’s natural threat response to symptoms, foster resilience, and embrace life once again.
(240) 201-2237 View (240) 201-2237
Photo of Rachael Stern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Rachael Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
The status quo tells us we can’t trust ourselves, our knowing, or our bodies. Rachael believes that our innate knowing - when we can access it, is not only the gold we seek, but the light we shine for ourselves and in the world around us. From experience with eating disorders, self-injury, trauma, chronic pain, couples and larger family systems and the LGBTQIA umbrella to professional work in issue focused non-profits/campaigns (and even performing), Rachael is deeply in tune with the political and social ecosystems that our intersectional identities transverse on a moment to moment basis
The status quo tells us we can’t trust ourselves, our knowing, or our bodies. Rachael believes that our innate knowing - when we can access it, is not only the gold we seek, but the light we shine for ourselves and in the world around us. From experience with eating disorders, self-injury, trauma, chronic pain, couples and larger family systems and the LGBTQIA umbrella to professional work in issue focused non-profits/campaigns (and even performing), Rachael is deeply in tune with the political and social ecosystems that our intersectional identities transverse on a moment to moment basis
(301) 591-6283 View (301) 591-6283
Photo of Rivka Sidorsky & Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Rivka Sidorsky & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Are you struggling with your intimate relationship? As an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, this is all we do. With 10 years of experience in the field of sex therapy, men, women, and couples come to us for our expertise in female and male sexual dysfunction and intimacy concerns. Rivka Sidorsky & Associates is designed to improve all the areas of intimacy and sexuality. If you are experiencing pelvic pain, unconsummated marriage, Vaginismus, sexual anxiety, sexual aversion, libido concerns, differences in desire, infidelity, sexual trauma, male sexual dysfunction, relationship and other concerns, you have come to the right place.
Are you struggling with your intimate relationship? As an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, this is all we do. With 10 years of experience in the field of sex therapy, men, women, and couples come to us for our expertise in female and male sexual dysfunction and intimacy concerns. Rivka Sidorsky & Associates is designed to improve all the areas of intimacy and sexuality. If you are experiencing pelvic pain, unconsummated marriage, Vaginismus, sexual anxiety, sexual aversion, libido concerns, differences in desire, infidelity, sexual trauma, male sexual dysfunction, relationship and other concerns, you have come to the right place.
(339) 237-5976 View (339) 237-5976
Photo of Victoria Washington, Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Victoria Washington
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20902  (Online Only)
My mission as an IFS-trained therapist is to help you understand and heal the different parts of yourself that may be in conflict or pain. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, I am here to support you. IFS stands for Internal Family Systems. It is a model that views each person as having a system of sub-personalities that have their own thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and motivations. Some of your parts may be wounded by past experiences and carry negative emotions such as anger, fear, shame, or guilt. Other parts may try to protect you from those emotions by avoiding, pleasing, or numbing.
My mission as an IFS-trained therapist is to help you understand and heal the different parts of yourself that may be in conflict or pain. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, I am here to support you. IFS stands for Internal Family Systems. It is a model that views each person as having a system of sub-personalities that have their own thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and motivations. Some of your parts may be wounded by past experiences and carry negative emotions such as anger, fear, shame, or guilt. Other parts may try to protect you from those emotions by avoiding, pleasing, or numbing.
(240) 233-2927 View (240) 233-2927
Photo of Girglani Counseling &Therapy, Psychologist in Silver Spring, MD
Girglani Counseling &Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
Reaching out for therapy can feel overwhelming. I understand. Yes, it is a leap of faith. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, in pain or numb or would proactively like to address specific concerns. If you are considering therapy for a one time consult, a few visits to address a recent crisis or would like to engage in ongoing therapy, I hope we can work together safely and productively to meet your therapy needs and goals. I collaborate and consult actively with other clinicians for care coordination, medication management or behavioral care as needed.
Reaching out for therapy can feel overwhelming. I understand. Yes, it is a leap of faith. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, in pain or numb or would proactively like to address specific concerns. If you are considering therapy for a one time consult, a few visits to address a recent crisis or would like to engage in ongoing therapy, I hope we can work together safely and productively to meet your therapy needs and goals. I collaborate and consult actively with other clinicians for care coordination, medication management or behavioral care as needed.
(240) 823-5860 View (240) 823-5860
Photo of Restore Tranquility, LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Restore Tranquility, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
At Restore Tranquility we provide psychotherapy for anxiety, trauma/PTSD, depression, chronic pain, sexuality/gender identity and relationship issues.
I work with people who are overwhelmed with life, worried about the future and stretched thin. Many tend to feel stuck in their careers or personal relationships at a time when they should be enjoying the life they have built. There are so many things that can interfere with our ability to live the happy, healthy, meaningful lives we most want to live. Do you struggle to make sustainable changes in your life?
At Restore Tranquility we provide psychotherapy for anxiety, trauma/PTSD, depression, chronic pain, sexuality/gender identity and relationship issues.
I work with people who are overwhelmed with life, worried about the future and stretched thin. Many tend to feel stuck in their careers or personal relationships at a time when they should be enjoying the life they have built. There are so many things that can interfere with our ability to live the happy, healthy, meaningful lives we most want to live. Do you struggle to make sustainable changes in your life?
(301) 605-9135 View (301) 605-9135
Photo of Wholesome Minds, LLC., Psychologist in Silver Spring, 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 Mary Alice Reilly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Mary Alice Reilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I'm passionate about working with LGBTQ+ & consensually non-monogamous people, as well as clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, chronic illness, & chronic pain.
Welcome! As you consider your options for therapy, know that I am already rooting for you to get what you need. If you choose to work with me, I will bring a warm and empathetic therapeutic style to our time together, prioritizing connection and insight to facilitate growth, healing, and resilience. My primary focus will be supporting you to reduce suffering, develop effective skills and resources, and flexibly adapt to whatever life may throw your way.
I'm passionate about working with LGBTQ+ & consensually non-monogamous people, as well as clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, chronic illness, & chronic pain.
Welcome! As you consider your options for therapy, know that I am already rooting for you to get what you need. If you choose to work with me, I will bring a warm and empathetic therapeutic style to our time together, prioritizing connection and insight to facilitate growth, healing, and resilience. My primary focus will be supporting you to reduce suffering, develop effective skills and resources, and flexibly adapt to whatever life may throw your way.
(240) 734-2433 View (240) 734-2433
Photo of Ronnie Biemans, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Ronnie Biemans
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
My approach is particularly suited to those individuals who are struggling with emotional distress and anxiety, school difficulties and overwork. Students, caregivers, new parents, pregnant or postpartum women, infertile couples, parents of children with special needs, and those dealing with chronic illness have found my approach very helpful. Join with me to restore and renew your emotional health. Together we will explore your strengths and challenges and develop a plan just right for you, with strategies proven to ensure stress and anxiety reduction, mood regulation, improved sleep, fulfilling relationships and balanced living.
My approach is particularly suited to those individuals who are struggling with emotional distress and anxiety, school difficulties and overwork. Students, caregivers, new parents, pregnant or postpartum women, infertile couples, parents of children with special needs, and those dealing with chronic illness have found my approach very helpful. Join with me to restore and renew your emotional health. Together we will explore your strengths and challenges and develop a plan just right for you, with strategies proven to ensure stress and anxiety reduction, mood regulation, improved sleep, fulfilling relationships and balanced living.
(240) 772-5451 View (240) 772-5451
Photo of Melinda C Salzman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Melinda C Salzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I believe it is possible for people to change. For over 25 years, I have been working with teens, adults and seniors, helping them reassess what they want out of life and how to get it, change their approach to work and relationships, and heal the emotional and spiritual pain of loss, anxiety and depression. My areas of special interest include: Couples Therapy: Resolving Conflict and Deepening Intimacy; Grief and Loss: Healing the Pain of Loss and Adjusting to Living--Washingtonian magazine has named me a Top 10 Grief Therapist; Chronic Illness and Care Giving: Balancing Reality and Hope
I believe it is possible for people to change. For over 25 years, I have been working with teens, adults and seniors, helping them reassess what they want out of life and how to get it, change their approach to work and relationships, and heal the emotional and spiritual pain of loss, anxiety and depression. My areas of special interest include: Couples Therapy: Resolving Conflict and Deepening Intimacy; Grief and Loss: Healing the Pain of Loss and Adjusting to Living--Washingtonian magazine has named me a Top 10 Grief Therapist; Chronic Illness and Care Giving: Balancing Reality and Hope
(301) 288-1431 View (301) 288-1431
Photo of Susanna Eve Shapiro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Susanna Eve Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I have experience with trauma survivors, clients with chronic illness/pain, and helping couples in crisis.
I seek to help individuals, couples and families build stronger and healthier relationships. The family system is complex and dynamic. There are many configurations and possibilities. I will work as hard as you to help you identify and break out of destructive patterns. If you are ready to live your life fully authentically, with meaning and purpose, I would love to work with you to get there. I provide therapy in English, Spanish and Portuguese.
I have experience with trauma survivors, clients with chronic illness/pain, and helping couples in crisis.
I seek to help individuals, couples and families build stronger and healthier relationships. The family system is complex and dynamic. There are many configurations and possibilities. I will work as hard as you to help you identify and break out of destructive patterns. If you are ready to live your life fully authentically, with meaning and purpose, I would love to work with you to get there. I provide therapy in English, Spanish and Portuguese.
(240) 209-9936 View (240) 209-9936
Photo of Marissa Keilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Marissa Keilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
As your therapist I will work carefully and thoughtfully to assist you in addressing the issues that have brought you pain, fear, uncertainty or self-doubt. The individuals I work with may have a history of trauma, challenging life circumstances or anxiety and depression. I create a safe and positive space to process emotions, receive support and develop new coping skills to become healthier, happier and at peace with yourself. Our relationship as therapist and client is the foundation to build upon as your strengthen your relationship with yourself and build stronger relationships throughout your life.
As your therapist I will work carefully and thoughtfully to assist you in addressing the issues that have brought you pain, fear, uncertainty or self-doubt. The individuals I work with may have a history of trauma, challenging life circumstances or anxiety and depression. I create a safe and positive space to process emotions, receive support and develop new coping skills to become healthier, happier and at peace with yourself. Our relationship as therapist and client is the foundation to build upon as your strengthen your relationship with yourself and build stronger relationships throughout your life.
(301) 960-5738 x4 View (301) 960-5738 x4
Photo of Andrea Yudell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Andrea Yudell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
There are times that you might feel stuck in patterns that make life feel unsatisfying and empty. Maybe you feel depressed, anxious or in chronic pain. You may be negotiating a relationship or trying to adjust to a new job. Psychotherapy allows you the space to understand how your past and present intersect and what gets in the way of living life to your fullest while also helping you to tap into your inner resources. My approach is collaborative, thus giving you the space to reflect carefully. I work with you to develop better coping skills and help you to understand & manage complex feelings of anxiety or sadness.
There are times that you might feel stuck in patterns that make life feel unsatisfying and empty. Maybe you feel depressed, anxious or in chronic pain. You may be negotiating a relationship or trying to adjust to a new job. Psychotherapy allows you the space to understand how your past and present intersect and what gets in the way of living life to your fullest while also helping you to tap into your inner resources. My approach is collaborative, thus giving you the space to reflect carefully. I work with you to develop better coping skills and help you to understand & manage complex feelings of anxiety or sadness.
(202) 759-7471 View (202) 759-7471
Photo of Amy B Livingood, Psychologist in Silver Spring, MD
Amy B Livingood
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I work with adults and older adolescents who are dealing with anxiety and depression that interferes with their ability to maximize their progress at work and school and limits satisfying family and personal relationships. In addition, I find that life transitions can trigger emotional crises, but they also offer the opportunity for people to develop better strategies that can improve old patterns that have been unsuccessful in resolving problems in the past. Other areas of focus have included working on parenting strategies, marital relationships, grief and loss, and the impact of chronic illness on one's emotional life.
I work with adults and older adolescents who are dealing with anxiety and depression that interferes with their ability to maximize their progress at work and school and limits satisfying family and personal relationships. In addition, I find that life transitions can trigger emotional crises, but they also offer the opportunity for people to develop better strategies that can improve old patterns that have been unsuccessful in resolving problems in the past. Other areas of focus have included working on parenting strategies, marital relationships, grief and loss, and the impact of chronic illness on one's emotional life.
(301) 852-6194 View (301) 852-6194
Photo of Eric Millman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Eric Millman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20902  (Online Only)
I help people find creativity, courage, bravery, embrace pain and sadness, and find greater meaning and joy.
Are you looking for an experienced therapist that accepts insurances, offers evening hours, and returns phone call right away? I have over 15 years of experience helping individuals that are struggling in relationships, having difficulty with life adjustments, or bottling their feelings and acting out through addiction. My approach is tailored to each individual in a unique way, integrating various theories and styles of practice. Therapy is a one of a kind experience for people looking to change their lives. This is for those looking to be truly alive and to find deeper meaning, joy, creativity, and depth.
I help people find creativity, courage, bravery, embrace pain and sadness, and find greater meaning and joy.
Are you looking for an experienced therapist that accepts insurances, offers evening hours, and returns phone call right away? I have over 15 years of experience helping individuals that are struggling in relationships, having difficulty with life adjustments, or bottling their feelings and acting out through addiction. My approach is tailored to each individual in a unique way, integrating various theories and styles of practice. Therapy is a one of a kind experience for people looking to change their lives. This is for those looking to be truly alive and to find deeper meaning, joy, creativity, and depth.
(410) 698-6921 View (410) 698-6921
Photo of Claire Elaine Briscoe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Claire Elaine Briscoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
I have been joyfully practicing psychotherapy for over 30 years in the greater Washington, D.C. area. I have a general practice and specialize in depression, bipolar disorder and addictions/recovery/co-dependency issues. I work with chronic illness and specialize in diabetes. My preferred modality is individual and couple's therapy. I enjoy my clients immensely and feel a great deal of satisfaction in helping people better their lives, alleviate depression and resolve painful relationship issues.
I have been joyfully practicing psychotherapy for over 30 years in the greater Washington, D.C. area. I have a general practice and specialize in depression, bipolar disorder and addictions/recovery/co-dependency issues. I work with chronic illness and specialize in diabetes. My preferred modality is individual and couple's therapy. I enjoy my clients immensely and feel a great deal of satisfaction in helping people better their lives, alleviate depression and resolve painful relationship issues.
(301) 852-6395 View (301) 852-6395
Photo of Gwyneth Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Gwyneth Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
ACT, CFT, and FAP have demonstrated efficacy for depression, generalized anxiety/panic disorder, OCD, substance abuse, chronic illness, gender/sexual identity issues and eating disorders.
I am committed to providing effective, empirically tested, affordable treatment. My approach is honest, collaborative, interactive, and nonjudgmental. Often in life we buy into stories about ourselves that seem to protect us but ultimately prevent us from moving toward the things we value. We get caught up in judging whether a behavior is good or bad, rather than asking if it is effective in creating the life that we envision.
ACT, CFT, and FAP have demonstrated efficacy for depression, generalized anxiety/panic disorder, OCD, substance abuse, chronic illness, gender/sexual identity issues and eating disorders.
I am committed to providing effective, empirically tested, affordable treatment. My approach is honest, collaborative, interactive, and nonjudgmental. Often in life we buy into stories about ourselves that seem to protect us but ultimately prevent us from moving toward the things we value. We get caught up in judging whether a behavior is good or bad, rather than asking if it is effective in creating the life that we envision.
(202) 800-1905 View (202) 800-1905

See more therapy options for Silver Spring

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.