Chronic Pain Therapists in New York, NY

Photo of Linda Garcia-Rose & Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Linda Garcia-Rose & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10007
We are a Practice of 6 highly talented Psychotherapists. We believe in real, practical Transformative Psychotherapy focusing on more than just symptoms, helping each client live his/her happiest life through Positive Psychology. We use Mindfulness Techniques to help understand your thoughts and feelings and how these manifest in your body: yesterday, today and projecting into the future. Our team has deep training and experience in a wide range of specialties: Trauma and PTSD, Eating Disorders, Panic Attacks, Sex Therapy, Bio Feedback, Chronic Pain, IVF/Surrogacy, Spirituality, LGBTQA, Death/Dying/Hospice, and Business Coaching. We work with Children, Couples, Individuals and Families.
We are a Practice of 6 highly talented Psychotherapists. We believe in real, practical Transformative Psychotherapy focusing on more than just symptoms, helping each client live his/her happiest life through Positive Psychology. We use Mindfulness Techniques to help understand your thoughts and feelings and how these manifest in your body: yesterday, today and projecting into the future. Our team has deep training and experience in a wide range of specialties: Trauma and PTSD, Eating Disorders, Panic Attacks, Sex Therapy, Bio Feedback, Chronic Pain, IVF/Surrogacy, Spirituality, LGBTQA, Death/Dying/Hospice, and Business Coaching. We work with Children, Couples, Individuals and Families.
(646) 362-8705 View (646) 362-8705
Photo of Anna Holtzman, Counselor in New York, NY
Anna Holtzman
Counselor, LMHC, CPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with symptoms like headaches, backaches, stiff muscles, IBS, insomnia, nerve pain, pelvic pain, TMJ, tinnitus, anxiety, autoimmune conditions, food/chemical sensitivities — or other manifestations of a stressed-out nervous system? I help clients reduce and recover from chronic symptoms so they can reclaim their energy and live a full, purposeful life. I know this path because I've lived it: I'm a former TV editor who struggled with chronic migraine for over 10 years. Then I dove into mind-body healing, recovered from migraine, and now I help others do the same. I'm passionate about helping people like you!
Do you struggle with symptoms like headaches, backaches, stiff muscles, IBS, insomnia, nerve pain, pelvic pain, TMJ, tinnitus, anxiety, autoimmune conditions, food/chemical sensitivities — or other manifestations of a stressed-out nervous system? I help clients reduce and recover from chronic symptoms so they can reclaim their energy and live a full, purposeful life. I know this path because I've lived it: I'm a former TV editor who struggled with chronic migraine for over 10 years. Then I dove into mind-body healing, recovered from migraine, and now I help others do the same. I'm passionate about helping people like you!
(347) 960-5967 View (347) 960-5967
Photo of Hannah Neumann, Psychologist in New York, NY
Hannah Neumann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10034  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of what are often interconnected problems (mood and anxiety disorders, chronic pain, and trauma), as well as the treatment of behaviors that can develop in response, such as substance use (in an effort to self-medicate). I believe we all do the best we can to cope with pain, using whatever skills we have available. And yet sometimes our best efforts to avoid suffering can serve to keep us stuck retreading the same paths. Step by step, let's venture forward in our work together, letting suffering subside as we uncover meaning, learning to live more full and valued lives.
I specialize in the treatment of what are often interconnected problems (mood and anxiety disorders, chronic pain, and trauma), as well as the treatment of behaviors that can develop in response, such as substance use (in an effort to self-medicate). I believe we all do the best we can to cope with pain, using whatever skills we have available. And yet sometimes our best efforts to avoid suffering can serve to keep us stuck retreading the same paths. Step by step, let's venture forward in our work together, letting suffering subside as we uncover meaning, learning to live more full and valued lives.
(908) 648-3769 View (908) 648-3769
Photo of Ariel Gustavo Lachman, Psychologist in New York, NY
Ariel Gustavo Lachman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
If you suffer from complex medical issues, pain management, and/or complications related to obesity, Dr. Lachman may be an especially good choice as a psychotherapist. He specializes in Health Psychology and has extensive training and clinical experience working with patients struggling with these and similar problems. In addition, he has been trained in Clinical Geropsychology and to treat patients with symptoms related to traumatic experiences. Internships within various medical settings, including the Palo Alto VA Hospital and Robert Wood Johnson Medical School has prepared him to identify the proper course of treatment needed for you.
If you suffer from complex medical issues, pain management, and/or complications related to obesity, Dr. Lachman may be an especially good choice as a psychotherapist. He specializes in Health Psychology and has extensive training and clinical experience working with patients struggling with these and similar problems. In addition, he has been trained in Clinical Geropsychology and to treat patients with symptoms related to traumatic experiences. Internships within various medical settings, including the Palo Alto VA Hospital and Robert Wood Johnson Medical School has prepared him to identify the proper course of treatment needed for you.
(646) 759-0762 View (646) 759-0762
Richard Travers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
I do insight oriented psychotherapy with clients interested in focusing on current issues and how they are effected by earlier life experiences, present conflicts and future possibilities. The issues I am best suited to address are depression, trauma, child abuse,aging, chronic illness, gay and lesbian/sexual orientation/ coming out
I do insight oriented psychotherapy with clients interested in focusing on current issues and how they are effected by earlier life experiences, present conflicts and future possibilities. The issues I am best suited to address are depression, trauma, child abuse,aging, chronic illness, gay and lesbian/sexual orientation/ coming out
(646) 759-0738 View (646) 759-0738
Photo of Neal Bauer, Psychologist in New York, NY
Neal Bauer
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
​I specialize in working individually with adults and older adults experiencing depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and adjustment to temporary, chronic, or terminal medical conditions.
I believe in everyone’s capacity to grow. Each person has the unique ability to shed their destructive behaviors and adopt new skills to improve themselves. I strive to help clients identify goals and make the changes to achieve them. With a Master’s degree from Columbia University and a Doctorate of Psychology from LIU - Post, I am currently a licensed psychologist with over a decade of clinical experience.
​I specialize in working individually with adults and older adults experiencing depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and adjustment to temporary, chronic, or terminal medical conditions.
I believe in everyone’s capacity to grow. Each person has the unique ability to shed their destructive behaviors and adopt new skills to improve themselves. I strive to help clients identify goals and make the changes to achieve them. With a Master’s degree from Columbia University and a Doctorate of Psychology from LIU - Post, I am currently a licensed psychologist with over a decade of clinical experience.
(929) 395-1440 View (929) 395-1440
Photo of Laura Grace Adams, Psychologist in New York, NY
Laura Grace Adams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
How we make meaning out of both joy and suffering defines much of how we navigate through our lives. Having a space to work through that journey toward meaning with support can make all the difference. My goal is to help my clients move bravely in the direction of what is most important to them by considering past, present, and future in a thoughtful, intentional, and holistic way. Areas of specialty include: chronic/complex pain management, insomnia, adjustment to illness, PTSD and complex trauma, and relationship issues. I also work with professionals who have experienced work-related trauma (medical/first responders, legal, etc)
How we make meaning out of both joy and suffering defines much of how we navigate through our lives. Having a space to work through that journey toward meaning with support can make all the difference. My goal is to help my clients move bravely in the direction of what is most important to them by considering past, present, and future in a thoughtful, intentional, and holistic way. Areas of specialty include: chronic/complex pain management, insomnia, adjustment to illness, PTSD and complex trauma, and relationship issues. I also work with professionals who have experienced work-related trauma (medical/first responders, legal, etc)
(332) 378-1985 View (332) 378-1985
Photo of Jeffrey T. Wentzel, Psychologist in New York, NY
Jeffrey T. Wentzel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
My specific areas of expertise include relationship problems, identity issues, anxiety, depression, and a range of psychophysiologic conditions--chronic pain, GI issues, and hypertension--that can often benefit from improved self-awareness, more flexible and effective ways of coping with stress, and increased security and stability in one's relationships.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have worked extensively with individual adults, adolescents, and couples in New York City for more than 20 years. I work collaboratively with each of my clients to strike the right balance between providing relief in the short-term from the types of symptoms and difficult circumstances that may have led to an interest in psychotherapy, while also attempting to facilitate an ongoing process that promotes greater self-awareness and an increased sense of self-confidence in defining and achieving a more productive and satisfying life.
My specific areas of expertise include relationship problems, identity issues, anxiety, depression, and a range of psychophysiologic conditions--chronic pain, GI issues, and hypertension--that can often benefit from improved self-awareness, more flexible and effective ways of coping with stress, and increased security and stability in one's relationships.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have worked extensively with individual adults, adolescents, and couples in New York City for more than 20 years. I work collaboratively with each of my clients to strike the right balance between providing relief in the short-term from the types of symptoms and difficult circumstances that may have led to an interest in psychotherapy, while also attempting to facilitate an ongoing process that promotes greater self-awareness and an increased sense of self-confidence in defining and achieving a more productive and satisfying life.
(646) 553-4203 View (646) 553-4203
Photo of Dr. David M Castro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Dr. David M Castro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128
My focus is on helping others change painful patterns. I am a psychotherapist who values a close, focused type of listening. This is connected to an emphasis on the unique cultural, environmental, and psychological factors that contribute to current distress. I am currently accepting new patients, with evening and weekend hours available. Specialty areas include chronic pain conditions, addictions, and transition to college. If for whatever reason, during the initial free phone consult we discover that I am not a good match, I will work with you to find someone who is able to meet your needs.
My focus is on helping others change painful patterns. I am a psychotherapist who values a close, focused type of listening. This is connected to an emphasis on the unique cultural, environmental, and psychological factors that contribute to current distress. I am currently accepting new patients, with evening and weekend hours available. Specialty areas include chronic pain conditions, addictions, and transition to college. If for whatever reason, during the initial free phone consult we discover that I am not a good match, I will work with you to find someone who is able to meet your needs.
(917) 525-4940 View (917) 525-4940
Photo of Dan Guerra, Psychologist in New York, NY
Dan Guerra
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Waitlist for new clients
My work primarily focuses on stress management, adjustment to disability, recent and past emotional trauma, panic disorder, chronic pain and relationship challenges.
Psychotherapy is not limited to exploring your past, but can also focus on discovering solutions for the present. I have over 18 years experience working with young and mature adults to overcome obstacles to their wellness and mental health. I help clients to identify and leverage their strengths and resources to resolve recurring difficulties and problems that they encounter. The psychotherapy process is one of both exploration, expert guidance, relational, and discovering that which may not be visible or understood on one's own, so that the individual may be better equipped for having holistic health.
My work primarily focuses on stress management, adjustment to disability, recent and past emotional trauma, panic disorder, chronic pain and relationship challenges.
Psychotherapy is not limited to exploring your past, but can also focus on discovering solutions for the present. I have over 18 years experience working with young and mature adults to overcome obstacles to their wellness and mental health. I help clients to identify and leverage their strengths and resources to resolve recurring difficulties and problems that they encounter. The psychotherapy process is one of both exploration, expert guidance, relational, and discovering that which may not be visible or understood on one's own, so that the individual may be better equipped for having holistic health.
(917) 725-3009 View (917) 725-3009
Photo of Pamela Castineiras, Psychologist in New York, NY
Pamela Castineiras
Psychologist, PsyD, BCB
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10031  (Online Only)
Hi and welcome! My name is Dr. Pam and I am a licensed clinical psychologist and supervisor. I am Board Certified in Biofeedback which means I underwent extensive training in learning how the body and the mind work together to impact the health and wellness of an individual. Through this training, I learned that my passion lies in helping patients learn about their bodies and minds in new ways to help nurture healing, especially in the case of chronic health diagnoses, insomnia, and anxiety disorders. I specialize in improving the quality of life of individuals with chronic pain, including chronic migraine and fibromyalgia.
Hi and welcome! My name is Dr. Pam and I am a licensed clinical psychologist and supervisor. I am Board Certified in Biofeedback which means I underwent extensive training in learning how the body and the mind work together to impact the health and wellness of an individual. Through this training, I learned that my passion lies in helping patients learn about their bodies and minds in new ways to help nurture healing, especially in the case of chronic health diagnoses, insomnia, and anxiety disorders. I specialize in improving the quality of life of individuals with chronic pain, including chronic migraine and fibromyalgia.
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Photo of Lisa Rosenzweig, PhD, Psychologist in New York, NY
Lisa Rosenzweig, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
Chronic pain or illness didn't stop for the pandemic. In fact, it was harder to get to doctors, you may have felt more isolated, and you may have wanted to move on like everyone else but find yourself still struggling. And your physical health may still be affecting...everything. Are you having trouble managing symptoms of illness, side effects from treatment, chronic pain, infertility, or the emotional burden of your own or a loved one's diagnosis? Medical diagnoses and how we feel physically can profoundly impact our emotional health, family lives, and so much more. It can be a lot to handle on your own and you don't have to.
Chronic pain or illness didn't stop for the pandemic. In fact, it was harder to get to doctors, you may have felt more isolated, and you may have wanted to move on like everyone else but find yourself still struggling. And your physical health may still be affecting...everything. Are you having trouble managing symptoms of illness, side effects from treatment, chronic pain, infertility, or the emotional burden of your own or a loved one's diagnosis? Medical diagnoses and how we feel physically can profoundly impact our emotional health, family lives, and so much more. It can be a lot to handle on your own and you don't have to.
(917) 338-4798 View (917) 338-4798
Photo of Laura Meli in New York, NY
Laura Meli
PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic pain.
At times, it can feel challenging to navigate growth and change on your own. I'd like to help you find clarity and relief. I see therapy as a collaborative space to increase self-understanding, practice healthy communication, and build self-compassion. In session, I lead with warmth and curiosity and love to connect with my patients through humor. Together, we can work to observe and deepen awareness of thought patterns and emotional experiences. Through this practice of self-reflection, we'll harness your strengths and bring new perspective to unhelpful thoughts, difficult or uncomfortable emotions, and unhealthy behaviors.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic pain.
At times, it can feel challenging to navigate growth and change on your own. I'd like to help you find clarity and relief. I see therapy as a collaborative space to increase self-understanding, practice healthy communication, and build self-compassion. In session, I lead with warmth and curiosity and love to connect with my patients through humor. Together, we can work to observe and deepen awareness of thought patterns and emotional experiences. Through this practice of self-reflection, we'll harness your strengths and bring new perspective to unhelpful thoughts, difficult or uncomfortable emotions, and unhealthy behaviors.
(646) 846-8740 x4 View (646) 846-8740 x4
Photo of Matthew Spieler, Psychologist in New York, NY
Matthew Spieler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
I approach my work with a deep respect for each person's unique and complex life experience and a belief that therapy offers a space in which trauma and emotional pain can be healed and longstanding patterns that limit a person's potential can be changed.
The therapy I practice aims not only to help people find relief from the acute suffering that often brings them into treatment, but also to develop a deep knowledge of one’s inner world and the emotional security needed to approach daily living with greater openness, resilience, and authenticity. Collaboratively, we work to understand the meaning of symptoms and what they communicate about past traumas as well as the needs and desires that have gone unfulfilled and often unacknowledged.
I approach my work with a deep respect for each person's unique and complex life experience and a belief that therapy offers a space in which trauma and emotional pain can be healed and longstanding patterns that limit a person's potential can be changed.
The therapy I practice aims not only to help people find relief from the acute suffering that often brings them into treatment, but also to develop a deep knowledge of one’s inner world and the emotional security needed to approach daily living with greater openness, resilience, and authenticity. Collaboratively, we work to understand the meaning of symptoms and what they communicate about past traumas as well as the needs and desires that have gone unfulfilled and often unacknowledged.
(929) 255-3748 View (929) 255-3748
Photo of Daniel Ratner, Psychologist in New York, NY
Daniel Ratner
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
I specialize in the connection between mind and body, relieving physical ailments deriving from psychological causes (headaches, back and musculoskeletal pain, digestive problems, sexual dysfunction, sleep difficulties, etc.
I specialize in the alleviation of physical symptoms deriving from, or exacerbated by, psychological causes, working collaboratively to build a strong, genuine connection -- one of trust, empathy, and warmth -- with my clients. The mind body understanding allows us unique opportunities to reach profoundly new insights and self-awareness, making changes, even with long-standing difficulties, easily attainable. In many cases, symptoms can be reduced very quickly. I now work in a short term consultation model with numerous resources to help, including teaching seminars and individual & group consultations. Visit www.crushingdoubt.org.
I specialize in the connection between mind and body, relieving physical ailments deriving from psychological causes (headaches, back and musculoskeletal pain, digestive problems, sexual dysfunction, sleep difficulties, etc.
I specialize in the alleviation of physical symptoms deriving from, or exacerbated by, psychological causes, working collaboratively to build a strong, genuine connection -- one of trust, empathy, and warmth -- with my clients. The mind body understanding allows us unique opportunities to reach profoundly new insights and self-awareness, making changes, even with long-standing difficulties, easily attainable. In many cases, symptoms can be reduced very quickly. I now work in a short term consultation model with numerous resources to help, including teaching seminars and individual & group consultations. Visit www.crushingdoubt.org.
(347) 669-5006 View (347) 669-5006
Photo of Eva Margot Kant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Eva Margot Kant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10023  (Online Only)
Are you looking to make positive changes in your life? Choosing a skilled, knowledgeable and collaborative therapist is the first step. As an experienced sex/psychotherapist and medical social worker, I work with you as you navigate through life's transitions, cross that communication barrier, address a medical diagnosis or address issues of a sexual nature. I provide counseling for individuals and couples addressing chronic illness/pain/disabilities, sexual/relationship issues, anxiety/depression and other challenges. I'm an attuned and empathic listener who provides a safe and supportive environment to work in to help you achieve your goals.
Are you looking to make positive changes in your life? Choosing a skilled, knowledgeable and collaborative therapist is the first step. As an experienced sex/psychotherapist and medical social worker, I work with you as you navigate through life's transitions, cross that communication barrier, address a medical diagnosis or address issues of a sexual nature. I provide counseling for individuals and couples addressing chronic illness/pain/disabilities, sexual/relationship issues, anxiety/depression and other challenges. I'm an attuned and empathic listener who provides a safe and supportive environment to work in to help you achieve your goals.
(646) 681-4109 View (646) 681-4109
Photo of Todd Kray, Psychologist in New York, NY
Todd Kray
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Waitlist for new clients
I also have extensive experience working with patients experiencing chronic pain and illness at various sites, including Beth Israel Medical Center, NY-Presbyterian Hospital, and Jacobi Medical Center.
I work with individuals and couples who are seeking to gain a better understanding of themselves in order to lead happier, more productive and more stable lives. I work well with people experiencing anxiety, depression, and mood disorders as well as those dealing with relationship issues who are having difficulty managing the everyday stressors of their lives, which impede on their capacity for productivity and satisfaction. While psychotherapy and psychoanalysis allow individuals to more deeply explore their emotions, behaviors, and relationships, I also integrate skills training, coaching, and coping strategies that allow one to function more effectively in interpersonal, professional, and creative situations.
I also have extensive experience working with patients experiencing chronic pain and illness at various sites, including Beth Israel Medical Center, NY-Presbyterian Hospital, and Jacobi Medical Center.
I work with individuals and couples who are seeking to gain a better understanding of themselves in order to lead happier, more productive and more stable lives. I work well with people experiencing anxiety, depression, and mood disorders as well as those dealing with relationship issues who are having difficulty managing the everyday stressors of their lives, which impede on their capacity for productivity and satisfaction. While psychotherapy and psychoanalysis allow individuals to more deeply explore their emotions, behaviors, and relationships, I also integrate skills training, coaching, and coping strategies that allow one to function more effectively in interpersonal, professional, and creative situations.
(917) 519-9081 View (917) 519-9081
Photo of Valentina Harrell, Psychologist in New York, NY
Valentina Harrell
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10024
Are you are experiencing pain and suffering associated with life transitions? Developmental hurdles? Divorce? Illness? Grief? Job Stress? Aging? Through a client-centered approach, I would work with you to clarify your goals such as reduced suffering and pain, increased capacity to make healthy choices, to generate well-being and vital productive engagement in life. We would work together to help you access inner resources and develop action-strategies to attain these goals. Job stress during these difficult financial times create potential crises for you and your loved ones. Your need for flexible fee arrangements will be taken into consideration.
Are you are experiencing pain and suffering associated with life transitions? Developmental hurdles? Divorce? Illness? Grief? Job Stress? Aging? Through a client-centered approach, I would work with you to clarify your goals such as reduced suffering and pain, increased capacity to make healthy choices, to generate well-being and vital productive engagement in life. We would work together to help you access inner resources and develop action-strategies to attain these goals. Job stress during these difficult financial times create potential crises for you and your loved ones. Your need for flexible fee arrangements will be taken into consideration.
(646) 386-2249 View (646) 386-2249
Photo of Ilyse Spertus, Psychologist in New York, NY
Ilyse Spertus
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017
panic attacks, general anxiety) and stress from every day living, to physical pain and emotional trauma.
Are you looking for a psychologist who is warm, direct and will work collaboratively with you? Together, we will work on using new tools to manage your anxiety and improve your overall mood, interpersonal skills and quality of life. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, which have been shown to be the most effective type of treatments for many psychological problems.
panic attacks, general anxiety) and stress from every day living, to physical pain and emotional trauma.
Are you looking for a psychologist who is warm, direct and will work collaboratively with you? Together, we will work on using new tools to manage your anxiety and improve your overall mood, interpersonal skills and quality of life. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, which have been shown to be the most effective type of treatments for many psychological problems.
(646) 502-8465 View (646) 502-8465
Photo of Dr. Megan Finsaas, Psychologist in New York, NY
Dr. Megan Finsaas
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
There are many ways that we as human beings suffer and try to cope. Layers of personal, familial, and historical trauma contribute to problematic relationship patterns, bodily pain and illness, over- or under-working, and obsessions. But these symptoms that are a source of suffering are often also expressing things that can't be expressed otherwise or pointing to aspects of living that need more care. I help my clients use words to explore these parts of self and to have new experiences, in order to make room for a life of more fullness, love, meaning, creativity, and ease.
There are many ways that we as human beings suffer and try to cope. Layers of personal, familial, and historical trauma contribute to problematic relationship patterns, bodily pain and illness, over- or under-working, and obsessions. But these symptoms that are a source of suffering are often also expressing things that can't be expressed otherwise or pointing to aspects of living that need more care. I help my clients use words to explore these parts of self and to have new experiences, in order to make room for a life of more fullness, love, meaning, creativity, and ease.
(332) 378-1819 View (332) 378-1819
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.