Photo of Stanley George Malkin, Psychologist in Watchung, NJ
Stanley George Malkin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Watchung, NJ 07069
I am a psychologist in practice for 30 years.I have a diverse clinical practice working with adults, adolescents, couples and families.I am an experienced psychotherapist with expertise in psychodynamic, cognitive, gestalt, existential approaches. This allows me to tailor my counseling to the specific needs of each person. I was trained to treat TMS by world renowned Dr. John Sarno and Dr. Arlene Feinblatt at NYU Medical Center/The Rusk Institute for Rehabilitation Medicine. I counsel people with anxiety, psychophysical pain/TMS, depression, stress and trauma. I help with discovering or re-discovering their inner needs and with bringing those needs to fruition.
I am a psychologist in practice for 30 years.I have a diverse clinical practice working with adults, adolescents, couples and families.I am an experienced psychotherapist with expertise in psychodynamic, cognitive, gestalt, existential approaches. This allows me to tailor my counseling to the specific needs of each person. I was trained to treat TMS by world renowned Dr. John Sarno and Dr. Arlene Feinblatt at NYU Medical Center/The Rusk Institute for Rehabilitation Medicine. I counsel people with anxiety, psychophysical pain/TMS, depression, stress and trauma. I help with discovering or re-discovering their inner needs and with bringing those needs to fruition.
(908) 836-6014 View (908) 836-6014

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Victoria Ozerskaya, Counselor in Watchung, NJ
Victoria Ozerskaya
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ho Ho Kus, NJ 07423
If you are experiencing chronic pain, a lot of energy is spent just to "get through the day". That energy could be put to better use to achieve your goals, enrich your life and enjoy it. Neck and back pain, TMI, IBS, eczema, joint pain, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue and autoimmune disorders have underlying emotional and psychological roots and most medical doctors don't pay attention to those "vitals". It often results in misdiagnosis and unsustainable treatments that bring temporary or no relief. It leaves you feeling misunderstood, frustrated with endless appointments, hopeless, lonely & desperate to try anything to feel better.
If you are experiencing chronic pain, a lot of energy is spent just to "get through the day". That energy could be put to better use to achieve your goals, enrich your life and enjoy it. Neck and back pain, TMI, IBS, eczema, joint pain, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue and autoimmune disorders have underlying emotional and psychological roots and most medical doctors don't pay attention to those "vitals". It often results in misdiagnosis and unsustainable treatments that bring temporary or no relief. It leaves you feeling misunderstood, frustrated with endless appointments, hopeless, lonely & desperate to try anything to feel better.
(551) 209-3814 View (551) 209-3814
Photo of Nicole Mendicino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watchung, NJ
Nicole Mendicino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saddle River, NJ 07458  (Online Only)
It's nice to meet you! Does your mind ever get the better of you? Are your thoughts so consuming that you can't seem to slow them down? Are you feeling unsettled, tense, or like you've lost yourself? You may be experiencing the unwanted effects of anxiety, chronic pain, or ongoing distress. These can feel debilitating when we do not know what to do with it all. Collaboratively, let's work towards reclaiming the life you truly deserve! To learn more about my practice, please view my website at wholeheartedcnslng.com
It's nice to meet you! Does your mind ever get the better of you? Are your thoughts so consuming that you can't seem to slow them down? Are you feeling unsettled, tense, or like you've lost yourself? You may be experiencing the unwanted effects of anxiety, chronic pain, or ongoing distress. These can feel debilitating when we do not know what to do with it all. Collaboratively, let's work towards reclaiming the life you truly deserve! To learn more about my practice, please view my website at wholeheartedcnslng.com
(973) 671-3048 View (973) 671-3048
Photo of Hania Schwartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watchung, NJ
Hania Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
We tend to think about trauma as huge, life threatening events but it can also be abuse, divorce, moving, bullying, physical illness, death of a loved one, surgery, harassment, living through a pandemic, political upheaval, etc… Thinking of trauma in this way means trauma is part of life – it is so common, in fact, that we may not even recognize it.
In addition to being a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and Certified Yoga Instructor. I am passionate about employing mindfulness and bodyfulness techniques to help you regain the equilibrium that trauma steals and restore your sense of control in this chaotic world. Along the way, you’ll learn to read your body’s messages instead of fearing them and pushing them away.
We tend to think about trauma as huge, life threatening events but it can also be abuse, divorce, moving, bullying, physical illness, death of a loved one, surgery, harassment, living through a pandemic, political upheaval, etc… Thinking of trauma in this way means trauma is part of life – it is so common, in fact, that we may not even recognize it.
In addition to being a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and Certified Yoga Instructor. I am passionate about employing mindfulness and bodyfulness techniques to help you regain the equilibrium that trauma steals and restore your sense of control in this chaotic world. Along the way, you’ll learn to read your body’s messages instead of fearing them and pushing them away.
(201) 464-2569 View (201) 464-2569
Photo of Nazeli M. Mouradian-Afarian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watchung, NJ
Nazeli M. Mouradian-Afarian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
When unresolved lifelong challenges cause feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, proper diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve general well-being. My clinical experience encompassed serving families and individuals who are going through life cycle changes such as developmental delays, ADHD, coping with grief/loss, adjustment to divorce, parenting support, adoption, chronic pain, and family estrangement. I aim to empower my clients to discover their best selves by utilizing my clinical expertise, and providing them with essential tools needed to attain their highest level of independent functioning.
When unresolved lifelong challenges cause feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, proper diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve general well-being. My clinical experience encompassed serving families and individuals who are going through life cycle changes such as developmental delays, ADHD, coping with grief/loss, adjustment to divorce, parenting support, adoption, chronic pain, and family estrangement. I aim to empower my clients to discover their best selves by utilizing my clinical expertise, and providing them with essential tools needed to attain their highest level of independent functioning.
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Photo of Marjorie Sommer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watchung, NJ
Marjorie Sommer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
My clients tell me that I help make the therapeutic process easier by understanding their pain, while giving them hope.
Are you feeling that life is more difficult than it should be? Do you think you might be suffering from anxiety or depression? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand these feelings can be very painful, scary, and all-consuming. That is why I use a collaborative, non-judgmental approach during the course of therapy. My work begins with listening to my clients with compassion. Once that connection is made with a therapist, I believe the client is on the road to having a brighter future. I look forward to speaking with you, and answering your questions.
My clients tell me that I help make the therapeutic process easier by understanding their pain, while giving them hope.
Are you feeling that life is more difficult than it should be? Do you think you might be suffering from anxiety or depression? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand these feelings can be very painful, scary, and all-consuming. That is why I use a collaborative, non-judgmental approach during the course of therapy. My work begins with listening to my clients with compassion. Once that connection is made with a therapist, I believe the client is on the road to having a brighter future. I look forward to speaking with you, and answering your questions.
(201) 429-0624 View (201) 429-0624
Photo of Tara Devine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Watchung, NJ
Tara Devine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wayne, NJ 07470
Long term affects of trauma include anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, strained relationships, and physical symptoms such as headaches, backache, hip pain, and nausea.
Trauma specialist dedicated to helping individuals and families cope with trauma symptoms. I am driven to help heal the mind and body from trauma responses.
Long term affects of trauma include anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, strained relationships, and physical symptoms such as headaches, backache, hip pain, and nausea.
Trauma specialist dedicated to helping individuals and families cope with trauma symptoms. I am driven to help heal the mind and body from trauma responses.
(973) 791-7691 View (973) 791-7691
Photo of Carol S Marcus, Psychologist in Watchung, NJ
Carol S Marcus
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Caldwell, NJ 07006
Waitlist for new clients
People I have worked with have found these treatment approaches successful in transforming emotional burdens such as trauma, difficult relational patterns, old beliefs about ourselves, and others, and discomfort/pain in the body while working towards shifting their relationships with themselves and others.
I am available for in person sessions in Portland, OR only. While I continue to practice in New Jersey, I am not taking any new NJ clients right now. I approach therapy with the belief that we all have an inherent ability to grow and heal, wired deep inside ourselves. I have great faith in this capacity to heal and transform. My approach is collaborative and respectful. I am certified in Somatic Experiencing; a body-based naturalistic approach to healing trauma and also training in IFS; Internal Family Systems therapy and EMDR. Currently, I am licensed in Oregon and New Jersey.
People I have worked with have found these treatment approaches successful in transforming emotional burdens such as trauma, difficult relational patterns, old beliefs about ourselves, and others, and discomfort/pain in the body while working towards shifting their relationships with themselves and others.
I am available for in person sessions in Portland, OR only. While I continue to practice in New Jersey, I am not taking any new NJ clients right now. I approach therapy with the belief that we all have an inherent ability to grow and heal, wired deep inside ourselves. I have great faith in this capacity to heal and transform. My approach is collaborative and respectful. I am certified in Somatic Experiencing; a body-based naturalistic approach to healing trauma and also training in IFS; Internal Family Systems therapy and EMDR. Currently, I am licensed in Oregon and New Jersey.
(973) 826-7889 View (973) 826-7889
Photo of Holly Richmond, Marriage & Family Therapist in Watchung, NJ
Holly Richmond
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
I treat a wide range of clients of all genders and sexual expressions for sexuality and relationship concerns. The foundation of my practice was built working with survivors of sexual assault and abuse, helping them transition into holistic sexual health for themselves, as well as sustaining intimate relationships with others. Today my practice still includes working with survivors, though I also see individuals and couples with issues such as compulsivity with pornography/sex, infidelity, fertility concerns, pain disorders, low desire, nontraditional sexual expression exploration and consensual non-monogamy.
I treat a wide range of clients of all genders and sexual expressions for sexuality and relationship concerns. The foundation of my practice was built working with survivors of sexual assault and abuse, helping them transition into holistic sexual health for themselves, as well as sustaining intimate relationships with others. Today my practice still includes working with survivors, though I also see individuals and couples with issues such as compulsivity with pornography/sex, infidelity, fertility concerns, pain disorders, low desire, nontraditional sexual expression exploration and consensual non-monogamy.
(973) 840-7348 View (973) 840-7348
Photo of Christine Meyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watchung, NJ
Christine Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wayne, NJ 07470
My specialties include family therapy, mood disorders, trauma, and chronic illness.
Life can present a wide array of challenges, from anxiety, to mood disorders, to trauma; all which require very specialized healing. Therapy is a personalized and integrative experience, and I am here to support you every step of the way. Whether you are seeking clarity on your past, support through a life transition, or coaching for a challenging family dynamic; I will work with you with compassion and guidance to meet your needs.
My specialties include family therapy, mood disorders, trauma, and chronic illness.
Life can present a wide array of challenges, from anxiety, to mood disorders, to trauma; all which require very specialized healing. Therapy is a personalized and integrative experience, and I am here to support you every step of the way. Whether you are seeking clarity on your past, support through a life transition, or coaching for a challenging family dynamic; I will work with you with compassion and guidance to meet your needs.
(862) 505-2946 View (862) 505-2946
Photo of Mary Beth Del Balzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watchung, NJ
Mary Beth Del Balzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Ho Ho Kus, NJ 07423
Therapeutic specializations include adult and older adult transitions, catastrophic illness counseling, bereavement and grief, anxiety, depression, stress, women's issues, spirit based counseling, and caretaker issues and resources.
My mission is to patiently support people in seeking and finding joy that eludes them, helping them to empower themselves by using psychotherapy & hypnotherapy, working with the mind, body, emotions and our spirit that makes us unique and a part of the whole of humanity. Our therapeutic alliance encourages a look at the world in a new, safe way. Hypnosis and work in the subconscious is the eye to the soul. I'm an expert hypnotherapist with numerous hypnosis certifications, in private psychotherapy practice since 2005 and a practicing clinical hypnotherapist since 1995, located in NJ.
Therapeutic specializations include adult and older adult transitions, catastrophic illness counseling, bereavement and grief, anxiety, depression, stress, women's issues, spirit based counseling, and caretaker issues and resources.
My mission is to patiently support people in seeking and finding joy that eludes them, helping them to empower themselves by using psychotherapy & hypnotherapy, working with the mind, body, emotions and our spirit that makes us unique and a part of the whole of humanity. Our therapeutic alliance encourages a look at the world in a new, safe way. Hypnosis and work in the subconscious is the eye to the soul. I'm an expert hypnotherapist with numerous hypnosis certifications, in private psychotherapy practice since 2005 and a practicing clinical hypnotherapist since 1995, located in NJ.
(201) 292-5167 View (201) 292-5167
Photo of Wendy Newman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watchung, NJ
Wendy Newman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Caldwell, NJ 07006
People engage in therapy because they are seeking relief from uncomfortable feelings that may have arisen from being overwhelmed with what life has handed them. Many are grappling with relationship challenges, feelings of being stuck, self-defeating behaviors, anxieties, phobias and issues of self-esteem. Others are experiencing physical symptoms which have been diagnosed as being rooted in psychological turmoil, also known as psychophysiologic disorders, or TMS.
People engage in therapy because they are seeking relief from uncomfortable feelings that may have arisen from being overwhelmed with what life has handed them. Many are grappling with relationship challenges, feelings of being stuck, self-defeating behaviors, anxieties, phobias and issues of self-esteem. Others are experiencing physical symptoms which have been diagnosed as being rooted in psychological turmoil, also known as psychophysiologic disorders, or TMS.
(973) 512-4362 View (973) 512-4362
Photo of Dianne Cover: Teens, Adults, and Couples, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watchung, NJ
Dianne Cover: Teens, Adults, and Couples
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07013
I focus on teens, adults, and couples suffering from anxiety, co-occurring disorders, relationship issues, stress management, and grief. I work hard to create a calm, safe space where there is no room for judgement. In sessions, I utilize a strength-based, mindful approach to help each client reach their life goals. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I focus on teens, adults, and couples suffering from anxiety, co-occurring disorders, relationship issues, stress management, and grief. I work hard to create a calm, safe space where there is no room for judgement. In sessions, I utilize a strength-based, mindful approach to help each client reach their life goals. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(973) 528-5661 View (973) 528-5661
Photo of Dayna Bandman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watchung, NJ
Dayna Bandman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
Therapy is an empowering and affirming experience. I engage in an individualized and collaborative approach that employs varied techniques to best address your concerns and situation. It is important to create an atmosphere of safety where difficult thoughts and feelings can be freely explored. I am actively engaged and empathic. Collaboration between therapist and client is fundamental in eliciting growth & change. In my years of experience I have seen how therapy leads to growth and enhanced quality of life and overall well-being. People can change to become the fullest version of themselves and live the lives they want to live.
Therapy is an empowering and affirming experience. I engage in an individualized and collaborative approach that employs varied techniques to best address your concerns and situation. It is important to create an atmosphere of safety where difficult thoughts and feelings can be freely explored. I am actively engaged and empathic. Collaboration between therapist and client is fundamental in eliciting growth & change. In my years of experience I have seen how therapy leads to growth and enhanced quality of life and overall well-being. People can change to become the fullest version of themselves and live the lives they want to live.
(973) 797-9066 View (973) 797-9066
Photo of Julie L Wien, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watchung, NJ
Julie L Wien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677
Are you feeling unfulfilled and struggling to express your emotions and needs? Anxiety and depression can hold you back from living a happy life. But with my interactive, compassionate, and non-judgmental counseling style, I can help you discover and utilize the resources you already possess. My priority is to provide a safe environment where you can feel comfortable. Together, we can work towards the courage to take risks and lead a more liberating life because you are not defined by a diagnosis or demographic. I individualize my approach to each client to help you achieve personal growth and acceptance.
Are you feeling unfulfilled and struggling to express your emotions and needs? Anxiety and depression can hold you back from living a happy life. But with my interactive, compassionate, and non-judgmental counseling style, I can help you discover and utilize the resources you already possess. My priority is to provide a safe environment where you can feel comfortable. Together, we can work towards the courage to take risks and lead a more liberating life because you are not defined by a diagnosis or demographic. I individualize my approach to each client to help you achieve personal growth and acceptance.
(551) 228-1894 View (551) 228-1894
Photo of Dr. S. Yeliz Orhan in Watchung, NJ
Dr. S. Yeliz Orhan
PhD, CMH, CHT, MA
Verified Verified
Totowa, NJ 07512
I am a psychologist (Ph.D.), I have over 19 years of experience and have worked with a diverse population on a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, Post-traumatic stress disorder, marital/family conflict and stress,ADHD in childs and adults,adolescent mental health,neurotic dieseases and psychotic disorders,traumatic events,phobias. Specialized on chronic stress-related psychological and problems like vaginismus,sexual problems and physiological illnesses like cardio-vascular. I have training in working with children and adolescents and their parents.I also have significant experience in working older adults/
I am a psychologist (Ph.D.), I have over 19 years of experience and have worked with a diverse population on a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, Post-traumatic stress disorder, marital/family conflict and stress,ADHD in childs and adults,adolescent mental health,neurotic dieseases and psychotic disorders,traumatic events,phobias. Specialized on chronic stress-related psychological and problems like vaginismus,sexual problems and physiological illnesses like cardio-vascular. I have training in working with children and adolescents and their parents.I also have significant experience in working older adults/
(551) 278-8728 View (551) 278-8728
Photo of Footprints to Feel Better, Licensed Professional Counselor in Watchung, NJ
Footprints to Feel Better
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Saddle River, NJ 07458
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Leora Perlman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watchung, NJ
Leora Perlman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Waitlist for new clients
My work is dedicated to helping you embrace who you are in order to live a fulfilling and balanced life. I focus on developing your ability to understand the powerful connection between your mind and body. This insight facilitates a path toward healing from current and past challenges. During the course of our work, I will help you develop your "Emotional Intelligence" (understanding of what motivates feelings and actions) and acquire the tools needed to overcome barriers blocking growth and change. Once you gain these coping skills, you will find yourself open to loving relationships, living in the present and creating a more fulfilling life.
My work is dedicated to helping you embrace who you are in order to live a fulfilling and balanced life. I focus on developing your ability to understand the powerful connection between your mind and body. This insight facilitates a path toward healing from current and past challenges. During the course of our work, I will help you develop your "Emotional Intelligence" (understanding of what motivates feelings and actions) and acquire the tools needed to overcome barriers blocking growth and change. Once you gain these coping skills, you will find yourself open to loving relationships, living in the present and creating a more fulfilling life.
(646) 679-5992 View (646) 679-5992
Photo of Holistic Naturopathic Healing & Energy Psychology in Watchung, NJ
Holistic Naturopathic Healing & Energy Psychology
PhD, ND
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Do You Want Improvement In Your Emotional/Mental Issues and Change Habits in 1 to 3 Sessions? .. Want To Move Forward From The Past Quickly and Easily? .. Find out how, in just 1 to 3 sessions, you could be much better, healhier, happier and accomplishing your goals, thanks to Dr. Robert's Energy Psychology & Mindy/Body Therapies. Dr. Robert has already helped hundreds of people accomplish what they desire and can help you in a short amount of time! .... It doesn't matter if you have trauma, PTSD, anxiety, want to lose weight, stop smoking, etc, I can Help You!
Do You Want Improvement In Your Emotional/Mental Issues and Change Habits in 1 to 3 Sessions? .. Want To Move Forward From The Past Quickly and Easily? .. Find out how, in just 1 to 3 sessions, you could be much better, healhier, happier and accomplishing your goals, thanks to Dr. Robert's Energy Psychology & Mindy/Body Therapies. Dr. Robert has already helped hundreds of people accomplish what they desire and can help you in a short amount of time! .... It doesn't matter if you have trauma, PTSD, anxiety, want to lose weight, stop smoking, etc, I can Help You!
(201) 257-5689 View (201) 257-5689
Photo of Linda Goldmintz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watchung, NJ
Linda Goldmintz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677
Life is filled with an array of demands and transitions which can often feel overwhelming. Perhaps you are struggling with a life change, a stressful relationship or trying to find greater personal fulfillment. Therapy can offer a supportive and containing space to explore what you want and need for yourself, as well as growing the relational connections in your life. By creating a safe space together, you can learn to identify your body's cues and thereby better master areas in your life that feel unsettled or stuck. The goal of our work together is to provide awareness, clarity, and healing thereby improving self regulated living.
Life is filled with an array of demands and transitions which can often feel overwhelming. Perhaps you are struggling with a life change, a stressful relationship or trying to find greater personal fulfillment. Therapy can offer a supportive and containing space to explore what you want and need for yourself, as well as growing the relational connections in your life. By creating a safe space together, you can learn to identify your body's cues and thereby better master areas in your life that feel unsettled or stuck. The goal of our work together is to provide awareness, clarity, and healing thereby improving self regulated living.
(201) 831-7836 View (201) 831-7836

See more therapy options for Watchung

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.