Photo of Ruth Alcantara-Zboinski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Astoria, NY
Ruth Alcantara-Zboinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11103  (Online Only)
Are you tired of feeling unhappy and ready for change? I am an EMDR therapist who works with clients 18+ impacted by trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, self-esteem and relationship issues. I have a love for helping others and use a variety of therapeutic modalities including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR). My style is warm, conversational, and direct. I strive to create a safe space where you are able to fully express yourself without judgment.
Are you tired of feeling unhappy and ready for change? I am an EMDR therapist who works with clients 18+ impacted by trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, self-esteem and relationship issues. I have a love for helping others and use a variety of therapeutic modalities including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR). My style is warm, conversational, and direct. I strive to create a safe space where you are able to fully express yourself without judgment.
(845) 720-3605 View (845) 720-3605
Photo of Mona El-Shahat, Counselor in Astoria, NY
Mona El-Shahat
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11101  (Online Only)
About Mona El-Shahat, LMHC, NCC. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who believes therapy is a collaborative journey. I take a person-centered, holistic, empathetic and culturally sensitive approach to help clients work towards achieving their goals. I operate from a multicultural lens and utilize a client-centered, trauma informed approach in my work. I provide a confidential, open-minded and supportive space where you will feel seen, heard and understood. Through this collaborative journey we will work on setting and meeting your goals.
About Mona El-Shahat, LMHC, NCC. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who believes therapy is a collaborative journey. I take a person-centered, holistic, empathetic and culturally sensitive approach to help clients work towards achieving their goals. I operate from a multicultural lens and utilize a client-centered, trauma informed approach in my work. I provide a confidential, open-minded and supportive space where you will feel seen, heard and understood. Through this collaborative journey we will work on setting and meeting your goals.
(929) 207-5812 View (929) 207-5812

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Brown, Pre-Licensed Professional in Astoria, NY
Jennifer Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFA, RDT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
With a focus on diverse populations, addiction, and holistic pain management, I offer a unique blend of narradrama, music, and technology to help you reshape your narrative.
Are you seeking a therapist who empowers you to rewrite your own story? Imagine finding a space where your creativity thrives, guided by a therapist who understands the power of self-expression. I specialize in helping diverse clients – from survivors to adolescents – navigate their healing journeys. Using drama therapy, you become your own guide in reshaping your narrative, fostering supportive self-talk and self-image.
With a focus on diverse populations, addiction, and holistic pain management, I offer a unique blend of narradrama, music, and technology to help you reshape your narrative.
Are you seeking a therapist who empowers you to rewrite your own story? Imagine finding a space where your creativity thrives, guided by a therapist who understands the power of self-expression. I specialize in helping diverse clients – from survivors to adolescents – navigate their healing journeys. Using drama therapy, you become your own guide in reshaping your narrative, fostering supportive self-talk and self-image.
(929) 543-5823 View (929) 543-5823
Photo of Claudia Flores de Valgaz, Counselor in Astoria, NY
Claudia Flores de Valgaz
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jackson Heights, NY 11372
Having worked with diverse populations including, individuals diagnosed with mental illness, substance abuse, criminal justice involvement, and at risk youth, I am eager to meet you and walk alongside you on your personal counseling journey.
An atmosphere of safety, genuine empathy and respect are vital for your counseling experience to lead to life change and optimal mental wellness. If you are experiencing difficulties in your life, whether relational, social, or psychological, Christian counseling can provide you with the necessary tools to help you attain personal insights, make decisions towards life changes, and obtain personal growth.
Having worked with diverse populations including, individuals diagnosed with mental illness, substance abuse, criminal justice involvement, and at risk youth, I am eager to meet you and walk alongside you on your personal counseling journey.
An atmosphere of safety, genuine empathy and respect are vital for your counseling experience to lead to life change and optimal mental wellness. If you are experiencing difficulties in your life, whether relational, social, or psychological, Christian counseling can provide you with the necessary tools to help you attain personal insights, make decisions towards life changes, and obtain personal growth.
(646) 798-6075 View (646) 798-6075
Photo of Dr. Brian Belfi, Psychologist in Astoria, NY
Dr. Brian Belfi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101  (Online Only)
"If wrinkles must be written upon our brows, let them not be written upon the heart. The spirit should not grow old." James A. Garfield One of life's greatest and often labor-filled adventures is the journey into understanding one's own psychology. Many choose to not take this voyage and suffer in silence. Others, like you, take a chance... I specialize in working with adults who are suffering from depression, anxiety, addiction (withdrawal), weight issues, traumatic experiences, chronic pain, couples who are facing a disconnect in their relationship and those with family matters, and psychological coaching for athletes.
"If wrinkles must be written upon our brows, let them not be written upon the heart. The spirit should not grow old." James A. Garfield One of life's greatest and often labor-filled adventures is the journey into understanding one's own psychology. Many choose to not take this voyage and suffer in silence. Others, like you, take a chance... I specialize in working with adults who are suffering from depression, anxiety, addiction (withdrawal), weight issues, traumatic experiences, chronic pain, couples who are facing a disconnect in their relationship and those with family matters, and psychological coaching for athletes.
(917) 909-8739 View (917) 909-8739
Photo of Amy Lowery Allison, Psychologist in Astoria, NY
Amy Lowery Allison
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10065  (Online Only)
You are more than a body. So when your body is struggling, it makes sense that you would also struggle mentally, emotionally, socially or even spiritually. I can help you through this. I am a clinical psychologist with leading expertise in providing psychotherapy to individuals dealing with health concerns (high stress/tension, coping with illness, disease or disability, fear of progression/recurrence, reducing physical symptoms, body image/changes, impact on relationships, communicating with loved ones, coping with depression, anxiety, or isolation, spiritual distress, enriching meaning, or even support facing end of life).
You are more than a body. So when your body is struggling, it makes sense that you would also struggle mentally, emotionally, socially or even spiritually. I can help you through this. I am a clinical psychologist with leading expertise in providing psychotherapy to individuals dealing with health concerns (high stress/tension, coping with illness, disease or disability, fear of progression/recurrence, reducing physical symptoms, body image/changes, impact on relationships, communicating with loved ones, coping with depression, anxiety, or isolation, spiritual distress, enriching meaning, or even support facing end of life).
(646) 916-5548 View (646) 916-5548
Photo of Daring Bliss Therapy, LCSW, PLLC - Dalia Bautista, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Astoria, NY
Daring Bliss Therapy, LCSW, PLLC - Dalia Bautista
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I’m a Bilingual Licensed Clinical psychotherapist. I offer a safe, caring, professional & therapeutic environment where we can co-create a relationship essential for your healing & growth. I aid individuals with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, anxiety, chronic illness, medical trauma, food allergies, difficulty forming or maintaining relationships, & life transitions (I.e. college, aging.) I strive to aid my patients in cultivating greater self-acceptance & compassion for themselves. I have extensive experience with Latinx, people of color & LGBTQIA+. Mis servicios son ofrecidos 100 % en Español. www.daringblisstherapy.com.
I’m a Bilingual Licensed Clinical psychotherapist. I offer a safe, caring, professional & therapeutic environment where we can co-create a relationship essential for your healing & growth. I aid individuals with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, anxiety, chronic illness, medical trauma, food allergies, difficulty forming or maintaining relationships, & life transitions (I.e. college, aging.) I strive to aid my patients in cultivating greater self-acceptance & compassion for themselves. I have extensive experience with Latinx, people of color & LGBTQIA+. Mis servicios son ofrecidos 100 % en Español. www.daringblisstherapy.com.
(917) 905-3872 View (917) 905-3872
Photo of Ciara Diemer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Astoria, NY
Ciara Diemer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
Whether you're navigating grief, managing chronic illness, or simply seeking guidance through life's twists and turns, I am here to walk alongside you, offering my expertise and unwavering support every step of the way.
For over a decade, I've dedicated myself to the field of clinical social work, accumulating a wealth of experience along the way. With compassion as my compass, I've embarked on the profound journey of guiding individuals towards emotional well-being for 11 impactful years. This endeavor has been marked by a commitment to understanding, supporting, and empowering those I serve. Each day, I draw upon my depth of knowledge and genuine empathy to facilitate positive change in the lives of others, fostering resilience and facilitating growth.
Whether you're navigating grief, managing chronic illness, or simply seeking guidance through life's twists and turns, I am here to walk alongside you, offering my expertise and unwavering support every step of the way.
For over a decade, I've dedicated myself to the field of clinical social work, accumulating a wealth of experience along the way. With compassion as my compass, I've embarked on the profound journey of guiding individuals towards emotional well-being for 11 impactful years. This endeavor has been marked by a commitment to understanding, supporting, and empowering those I serve. Each day, I draw upon my depth of knowledge and genuine empathy to facilitate positive change in the lives of others, fostering resilience and facilitating growth.
(518) 840-1270 View (518) 840-1270
Photo of Veronica Vasquez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Astoria, NY
Veronica Vasquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10035  (Online Only)
Thanks for visiting my page. (Se habla español- Para más información en español haga click donde dice espanol) If you have been hesitant to start therapy now is the time to start. After experiencing all the challenges, loss and changes as a result of Covid 19, it is normal to be affected both professionally and personally. I invite you to view my website and reach out to discuss what area(s) of your life you would like to improve, any concerns or hesitations you have about therapy and to see if I may be a good fit for you.
Thanks for visiting my page. (Se habla español- Para más información en español haga click donde dice espanol) If you have been hesitant to start therapy now is the time to start. After experiencing all the challenges, loss and changes as a result of Covid 19, it is normal to be affected both professionally and personally. I invite you to view my website and reach out to discuss what area(s) of your life you would like to improve, any concerns or hesitations you have about therapy and to see if I may be a good fit for you.
(929) 298-4047 View (929) 298-4047
Photo of Mary Ruth Govindavari, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Astoria, NY
Mary Ruth Govindavari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10128  (Online Only)
You try so hard to always do the right thing. Take people’s advice, follow orders, and not rock the boat. But no matter how hard you try, you still feel like you’re failing. Everyone seems to have it all figured out except you. And you’re somehow separated from them by an indefinable quality. You simply don’t fit in with the crowd, and you suspect your racial and cultural background has something to do with it. People treat you differently, and you just go along because you don’t want to make waves. But every day you feel more inauthentic, inadequate, and isolated. You wish there were some other way to live, but you don’t know how.
You try so hard to always do the right thing. Take people’s advice, follow orders, and not rock the boat. But no matter how hard you try, you still feel like you’re failing. Everyone seems to have it all figured out except you. And you’re somehow separated from them by an indefinable quality. You simply don’t fit in with the crowd, and you suspect your racial and cultural background has something to do with it. People treat you differently, and you just go along because you don’t want to make waves. But every day you feel more inauthentic, inadequate, and isolated. You wish there were some other way to live, but you don’t know how.
(914) 996-4504 View (914) 996-4504
Photo of WellQor New York, Psychologist in Astoria, NY
WellQor New York
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodside, NY 11377  (Online Only)
WellQor is a new model in online therapy marrying the best of traditional and innovative approaches. We’re a full service psychology practice accessible online with a uniquely collaborative approach to care. This means your personal therapist works with a PsyD Clinical Director to review your care plan and and adjust your treatment to ensure you’re on the fastest path to living your best life. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, burnout, major life changes, or just finding a sense of purpose, our diverse multi-specialty team of therapists is here to help.
WellQor is a new model in online therapy marrying the best of traditional and innovative approaches. We’re a full service psychology practice accessible online with a uniquely collaborative approach to care. This means your personal therapist works with a PsyD Clinical Director to review your care plan and and adjust your treatment to ensure you’re on the fastest path to living your best life. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, burnout, major life changes, or just finding a sense of purpose, our diverse multi-specialty team of therapists is here to help.
(716) 526-8929 View (716) 526-8929
Photo of Kayla Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Astoria, NY
Kayla Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11373  (Online Only)
Hello and a warm embrace to all seeking growth, healing, and transformation. I am a dedicated and compassionate LCSW with 8 years of experience supporting and guiding individuals on their mental and emotional wellness journey. I received my MSW degree from Binghamton University and am certified in Perinatal Mental Health. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Together, we'll embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing old wounds, and empowering you to make meaningful changes.
Hello and a warm embrace to all seeking growth, healing, and transformation. I am a dedicated and compassionate LCSW with 8 years of experience supporting and guiding individuals on their mental and emotional wellness journey. I received my MSW degree from Binghamton University and am certified in Perinatal Mental Health. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Together, we'll embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing old wounds, and empowering you to make meaningful changes.
(646) 798-6120 View (646) 798-6120
Photo of Larisa Correa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Astoria, NY
Larisa Correa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, MSW, SIFI
Verified Verified
Elmhurst, NY 11373  (Online Only)
As a bilingual, bicultural, Latina, clinical social worker, I have dedicated my practice to working with women, who like me, have been judged, misunderstood, silenced, and oftentimes overlooked. Who you are is not defined by your sex, color, dis-ease, relationship, or your family. Although these things impact you, the "whole" of you is still evolving; ever present and resilient. Don't let your past, your thoughts, society or your environment determine what works for you and what does not. Trust your gut - your body keeps score and knows how to guide you. We need to learn to listen to what comes from within. Let me show you how.
As a bilingual, bicultural, Latina, clinical social worker, I have dedicated my practice to working with women, who like me, have been judged, misunderstood, silenced, and oftentimes overlooked. Who you are is not defined by your sex, color, dis-ease, relationship, or your family. Although these things impact you, the "whole" of you is still evolving; ever present and resilient. Don't let your past, your thoughts, society or your environment determine what works for you and what does not. Trust your gut - your body keeps score and knows how to guide you. We need to learn to listen to what comes from within. Let me show you how.
(305) 680-0434 View (305) 680-0434
Photo of Haley Kastner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Astoria, NY
Haley Kastner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10165
Haley provides evidence-based therapy for children, teens, and adults. She has had the opportunity to provide care in private practice, school, and medical settings. This array of experiences has fostered her ability to understand clients through a multi-disciplinary lens and draw upon a multitude of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation, Prevention-Focused Care, Crisis Intervention, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention. She utilizes these therapies to target anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, trauma, and executive functioning deficits.
Haley provides evidence-based therapy for children, teens, and adults. She has had the opportunity to provide care in private practice, school, and medical settings. This array of experiences has fostered her ability to understand clients through a multi-disciplinary lens and draw upon a multitude of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation, Prevention-Focused Care, Crisis Intervention, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention. She utilizes these therapies to target anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, trauma, and executive functioning deficits.
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Photo of Giselle Gavilanes-Duttenhofer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Astoria, NY
Giselle Gavilanes-Duttenhofer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10020  (Online Only)
My boutique psychotherapy approach focuses on quality of patient time, & outcomes. I am a prominent mental health clinician who graduated from Fordham University in 2001. I care deeply about each of my patients and want to help you get unstuck from persistent problems which you are now eager to get rid of with professional help. Long lasting positive life enhancing effects are attainable with the right help and I am ready to help you obtain them. I do not schedule back-to-back patients. I enjoy having the life that allows me to provide a tailored approach to every single patient.
My boutique psychotherapy approach focuses on quality of patient time, & outcomes. I am a prominent mental health clinician who graduated from Fordham University in 2001. I care deeply about each of my patients and want to help you get unstuck from persistent problems which you are now eager to get rid of with professional help. Long lasting positive life enhancing effects are attainable with the right help and I am ready to help you obtain them. I do not schedule back-to-back patients. I enjoy having the life that allows me to provide a tailored approach to every single patient.
(646) 978-9249 View (646) 978-9249
Photo of Heather Roiser: Anxiety/ADHD/Relationships/Dating, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Astoria, NY
Heather Roiser: Anxiety/ADHD/Relationships/Dating
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ADHD-, CCSP, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10036  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationship/dating, family role, job, health or some other area of your life? Are you feeling anxious? Are you struggling with symptoms of ADHD? I am here to help you get to the root of the issue and together, we can work on finding ways for you to feel better. My approach to therapy is holistic and eclectic. I blend cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic and mindfulness-based techniques to tailor the treatment to your personality and desired outcome. I also utilize the Gottman Method for relationship and dating issues.
Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationship/dating, family role, job, health or some other area of your life? Are you feeling anxious? Are you struggling with symptoms of ADHD? I am here to help you get to the root of the issue and together, we can work on finding ways for you to feel better. My approach to therapy is holistic and eclectic. I blend cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic and mindfulness-based techniques to tailor the treatment to your personality and desired outcome. I also utilize the Gottman Method for relationship and dating issues.
(646) 846-7102 View (646) 846-7102
Photo of Haley Kastner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Astoria, NY
Haley Kastner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10065
Haley provides evidence-based therapy for children, teens, and adults. She has had the opportunity to provide care in private practice, school, and medical settings. This array of experiences has fostered her ability to understand clients through a multi-disciplinary lens and draw upon a multitude of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation, Prevention-Focused Care, Crisis Intervention, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention. She utilizes these therapies to target anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, trauma, and executive functioning deficits.
Haley provides evidence-based therapy for children, teens, and adults. She has had the opportunity to provide care in private practice, school, and medical settings. This array of experiences has fostered her ability to understand clients through a multi-disciplinary lens and draw upon a multitude of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation, Prevention-Focused Care, Crisis Intervention, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention. She utilizes these therapies to target anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, trauma, and executive functioning deficits.
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Photo of Dr. Orsolya Varkonyi, Counselor in Astoria, NY
Dr. Orsolya Varkonyi
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10023  (Online Only)
Contemplating therapy is a courageous first step, and I admire your decision to seek help. I am here to support and guide you on your journey of healing and self-discovery. The demands and pressures of everyday life can cause anxiety, self-doubt, and sadness, which prevents you from living life to its fullest. My authentic and empathetic therapeutic style creates the ideal conditions for exploration and growth. I have studied (Columbia University), practiced, and taught psychotherapy for 20 years. I provide a broad range of clinical services, including assessment, coaching, consultation, and therapeutic services.
Contemplating therapy is a courageous first step, and I admire your decision to seek help. I am here to support and guide you on your journey of healing and self-discovery. The demands and pressures of everyday life can cause anxiety, self-doubt, and sadness, which prevents you from living life to its fullest. My authentic and empathetic therapeutic style creates the ideal conditions for exploration and growth. I have studied (Columbia University), practiced, and taught psychotherapy for 20 years. I provide a broad range of clinical services, including assessment, coaching, consultation, and therapeutic services.
(646) 759-9082 View (646) 759-9082
Photo of Zachary Rothwell in Astoria, NY
Zachary Rothwell
PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
(347) 493-0765 View (347) 493-0765
Photo of Sandra Feist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Astoria, NY
Sandra Feist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
Congratulations! By exploring therapy you are taking the first step toward a more enjoyable, meaningful life. Anxiety, relationship problems, past trauma, even positive job or life changes can weigh us down so that we lose sight of the true joys that surround us. We make the best choices we can as we try to solve our problems and live our lives; but sometimes, we forget that we learned those problem-solving skills long ago and that there might be a better way. Together we will work to solve your problems, face challenges and improve your quality of life.
Congratulations! By exploring therapy you are taking the first step toward a more enjoyable, meaningful life. Anxiety, relationship problems, past trauma, even positive job or life changes can weigh us down so that we lose sight of the true joys that surround us. We make the best choices we can as we try to solve our problems and live our lives; but sometimes, we forget that we learned those problem-solving skills long ago and that there might be a better way. Together we will work to solve your problems, face challenges and improve your quality of life.
(347) 897-5356 View (347) 897-5356
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.