Photo of Rosara Torrisi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syosset, NY
Rosara Torrisi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MEd, CST, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Syosset, NY 11791
I have considerable experience in sexual dysfunctions, low desire, erectile difficulties, orgasmic dysfunctions, pre-marital counseling, sexual orientation issues, gender identity issues, sexual minority individuals and families, alternative relationships, trauma, chronic illness, and the effects of these on individuals and families of all types.
I am dedicated to helping people work through life's unique challenges. I am here to assist you in reaching new solutions and working toward your goals. I can support individuals in coping with depression, anxiety, sexual identity or orientation, life skills for young adults, and sexual dysfunction. Couples or those in relationships may be seeking therapy for communication and relationship skills, sexual enrichment, mismatched desire, premarital counseling, or erectile and orgasm difficulties. I am an LGBT-Affirmative, Kink-Aware, and Poly-Inclusive therapist. I was Voted the number 1 Sex Therapist on Long Island for 2015 and 2017.
I have considerable experience in sexual dysfunctions, low desire, erectile difficulties, orgasmic dysfunctions, pre-marital counseling, sexual orientation issues, gender identity issues, sexual minority individuals and families, alternative relationships, trauma, chronic illness, and the effects of these on individuals and families of all types.
I am dedicated to helping people work through life's unique challenges. I am here to assist you in reaching new solutions and working toward your goals. I can support individuals in coping with depression, anxiety, sexual identity or orientation, life skills for young adults, and sexual dysfunction. Couples or those in relationships may be seeking therapy for communication and relationship skills, sexual enrichment, mismatched desire, premarital counseling, or erectile and orgasm difficulties. I am an LGBT-Affirmative, Kink-Aware, and Poly-Inclusive therapist. I was Voted the number 1 Sex Therapist on Long Island for 2015 and 2017.
(516) 279-2446 View (516) 279-2446
Photo of Jennifer Cristiano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syosset, NY
Jennifer Cristiano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
Syosset, NY 11791  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Jen, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC). I am a compassionate and experienced psychotherapist dedicated to empowering individuals to navigate life's challenges and foster personal growth. With over 10 years of experience, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance misuse, relationship issues, and more.
Welcome! I'm Jen, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC). I am a compassionate and experienced psychotherapist dedicated to empowering individuals to navigate life's challenges and foster personal growth. With over 10 years of experience, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance misuse, relationship issues, and more.
(516) 636-2192 View (516) 636-2192
Photo of Kevin F Scott in Syosset, NY
Kevin F Scott
MS , MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syosset, NY 11791
“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall” Nelson Mandela. I truly believe that anytime one asks for help, it takes strength and courage. Reality of daily stressors or change can sometimes feel overwhelming, but I believe that we all have the power within ourselves to overcome any obstacle. Reality can break you down, make you feel hopeless, helpless. I am here to show you the self-awareness, strength and confidence that we all need sometimes to conquer our fears and see hope for a brighter tomorrow.
“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall” Nelson Mandela. I truly believe that anytime one asks for help, it takes strength and courage. Reality of daily stressors or change can sometimes feel overwhelming, but I believe that we all have the power within ourselves to overcome any obstacle. Reality can break you down, make you feel hopeless, helpless. I am here to show you the self-awareness, strength and confidence that we all need sometimes to conquer our fears and see hope for a brighter tomorrow.
(516) 518-9749 View (516) 518-9749
Photo of Amy Rubin Morey, Counselor in Syosset, NY
Amy Rubin Morey
Counselor, MS, LMHC, BCB
Verified Verified
Syosset, NY 11773
Life can be very challenging at times and our usual way of managing doesn't work as effectively as it used to. Our coping skills aren't helping us to feel a sense of control and well-being and we end up feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, we can't sleep well, we under eat or overeat, experience mood changes and possible difficulties managing work, relationships and home life. I am committed to helping you understand what you are going through, developing strategies to make changes, assisting you with stress reduction so that you feel more comfortable within yourself and your life.
Life can be very challenging at times and our usual way of managing doesn't work as effectively as it used to. Our coping skills aren't helping us to feel a sense of control and well-being and we end up feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, we can't sleep well, we under eat or overeat, experience mood changes and possible difficulties managing work, relationships and home life. I am committed to helping you understand what you are going through, developing strategies to make changes, assisting you with stress reduction so that you feel more comfortable within yourself and your life.
(516) 252-0748 View (516) 252-0748
Photo of Pablo Idez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syosset, NY
Pablo Idez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CCTP, CMC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Syosset, NY 11773  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with Anxiety and Panic Disorder as it relates to relationships, career and performance concerns. I also work with many couples, offering marital, pre-marital and, separation counseling. My approach is eclectic and patient-centered, drawing from scientific/ evidence-based treatments such as CBT, ACT, Trauma-informed. Above all, my services are compassionate and inspired at times by mindfulness and other eastern approaches. Therapy is offered conveniently over telehealth on Long Island ( Nassau & Suffolk County) to those in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx and Staten Island.
I specialize in working with Anxiety and Panic Disorder as it relates to relationships, career and performance concerns. I also work with many couples, offering marital, pre-marital and, separation counseling. My approach is eclectic and patient-centered, drawing from scientific/ evidence-based treatments such as CBT, ACT, Trauma-informed. Above all, my services are compassionate and inspired at times by mindfulness and other eastern approaches. Therapy is offered conveniently over telehealth on Long Island ( Nassau & Suffolk County) to those in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx and Staten Island.
(347) 772-8373 View (347) 772-8373
Photo of Phillips Mental Health Counseling PC, Counselor in Syosset, NY
Phillips Mental Health Counseling PC
Counselor, PsyD, MS, LCMHC, CRPO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syosset, NY 11773
I am a LCMHC in New York and a Canadian registered psychotherapist of Ontario. My job is to interpret and apply current theory and empirically validated treatments in an ethical manner with the goal of relieving your distress. I believe when working with clients, that it is important to attend to the affect, cognition, and behavior of the individual to identify any characteristics of psychopathology. The goal of therapy is to help you express, alter, and understand what is causing your distress. Many considerations are weighed to formulate your treatment plan based on your clinical needs.
I am a LCMHC in New York and a Canadian registered psychotherapist of Ontario. My job is to interpret and apply current theory and empirically validated treatments in an ethical manner with the goal of relieving your distress. I believe when working with clients, that it is important to attend to the affect, cognition, and behavior of the individual to identify any characteristics of psychopathology. The goal of therapy is to help you express, alter, and understand what is causing your distress. Many considerations are weighed to formulate your treatment plan based on your clinical needs.
(917) 725-6732 View (917) 725-6732
Photo of Kathleen MacKenna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syosset, NY
Kathleen MacKenna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Syosset, NY 11773
You are right...life can be messy and at times, hard and overwhelming. It doesn't have to be this difficult, draining and challenging. The experience of stress, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions and trauma all impact our ability to be fully present in our lives. As we move forward in an uncertain world, now is the time to empower self care, healing, inner peace, and confidence. Searching for support is an important step towards living an authentic and positive life experience. You, your feelings, and your goals are a priority. Together we can work toward rising above the mess and helping you achieve your best self.
You are right...life can be messy and at times, hard and overwhelming. It doesn't have to be this difficult, draining and challenging. The experience of stress, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions and trauma all impact our ability to be fully present in our lives. As we move forward in an uncertain world, now is the time to empower self care, healing, inner peace, and confidence. Searching for support is an important step towards living an authentic and positive life experience. You, your feelings, and your goals are a priority. Together we can work toward rising above the mess and helping you achieve your best self.
(631) 201-5191 View (631) 201-5191
Photo of Samantha Pidgeon, Counselor in Syosset, NY
Samantha Pidgeon
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syosset, NY 11791
Life can be difficult at times and it takes strength to reach out to someone for help. Through our therapeutic relationship, my goal is to help you gain self-awareness about potential negative thinking patterns and ultimately increase stability and independence. We live in a world of many different stressors and pressures and I hope to help you learn to cope with these issues in a positive way. Mental health is just as important as physical, through all stages of life. I utilize a person-centered approach in order to explore past and current issues in order to help you learn different tools to help you take control of your life.
Life can be difficult at times and it takes strength to reach out to someone for help. Through our therapeutic relationship, my goal is to help you gain self-awareness about potential negative thinking patterns and ultimately increase stability and independence. We live in a world of many different stressors and pressures and I hope to help you learn to cope with these issues in a positive way. Mental health is just as important as physical, through all stages of life. I utilize a person-centered approach in order to explore past and current issues in order to help you learn different tools to help you take control of your life.
(516) 614-6962 View (516) 614-6962

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marlene L Levy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syosset, NY
Marlene L Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, DAAPM, CCBT
Verified Verified
Roslyn, NY 11576
Private practice 30 + years.. Anxiety, Depression, pain management , weight issues and marriage and family issues. I use Clinical Hypnosis along with psychotherapy. CBT, EFT, are among the various treatments designed for each patient individually.. *Clinical hypnosis is used when appropriate producing the most positive treatment results! I look forward to helping you, as I have helped so many over the years. President of the New York Society of Clinical Hypnosis [NYSCH.ORG], Consultant: ASCH, Diplomate :DAAPM Diplomate The American Academy of Pain Management; CCBT-Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist.
Private practice 30 + years.. Anxiety, Depression, pain management , weight issues and marriage and family issues. I use Clinical Hypnosis along with psychotherapy. CBT, EFT, are among the various treatments designed for each patient individually.. *Clinical hypnosis is used when appropriate producing the most positive treatment results! I look forward to helping you, as I have helped so many over the years. President of the New York Society of Clinical Hypnosis [NYSCH.ORG], Consultant: ASCH, Diplomate :DAAPM Diplomate The American Academy of Pain Management; CCBT-Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist.
(516) 986-3258 View (516) 986-3258
Photo of Dr. Garry Spink, Psychologist in Syosset, NY
Dr. Garry Spink
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westbury, NY 11568  (Online Only)
Helping people who struggle with chronic illness is my mission.
Do you struggle with a chronic health condition that affects all aspects of your day-to-day life? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and worried that there is no light at the end of the tunnel? Have you had a provider gaslight you or insist that "it's all in your head?" Do you hope that your life will get better? More than ever, people with chronic illnesses are feeling frustrated by the countless treatments they have tried which have yielded little to no benefit. They have been dismissed by various providers, and have trying to find a new way in life. Getting better should not be so hard, and I am here to help you get going!
Helping people who struggle with chronic illness is my mission.
Do you struggle with a chronic health condition that affects all aspects of your day-to-day life? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and worried that there is no light at the end of the tunnel? Have you had a provider gaslight you or insist that "it's all in your head?" Do you hope that your life will get better? More than ever, people with chronic illnesses are feeling frustrated by the countless treatments they have tried which have yielded little to no benefit. They have been dismissed by various providers, and have trying to find a new way in life. Getting better should not be so hard, and I am here to help you get going!
(315) 961-9959 View (315) 961-9959
Photo of Lindsay Weber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syosset, NY
Lindsay Weber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a passion for collaborative and interactive therapy. My goal is to empower individuals by tailoring my approach to their unique needs and aspirations. My experience spans across various age groups, from adolescents to adults, and I have worked extensively with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, life transitions, and other mental health concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a passion for collaborative and interactive therapy. My goal is to empower individuals by tailoring my approach to their unique needs and aspirations. My experience spans across various age groups, from adolescents to adults, and I have worked extensively with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, life transitions, and other mental health concerns.
(516) 518-3932 View (516) 518-3932
Photo of Christy Bush, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syosset, NY
Christy Bush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Northport, NY 11731  (Online Only)
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming and finding the right therapist can be even harder. I’m here to help! I have dedicated the past 9 years working with clients to create a safe and supportive environment to explore their thoughts and feelings, while developing healthy coping skills. I have experience working with a wide range of ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds, specializing in Depression, Anxiety, Pre and Postpartum, Child Development/Behavioral Issues, Anger Management, Decision Making, ADHD/OCD, Intrusive Thoughts, Self-esteem, Concrete Functioning, Chronic Illness, Adjustment to End of Life & Relationship/Family Issues.
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming and finding the right therapist can be even harder. I’m here to help! I have dedicated the past 9 years working with clients to create a safe and supportive environment to explore their thoughts and feelings, while developing healthy coping skills. I have experience working with a wide range of ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds, specializing in Depression, Anxiety, Pre and Postpartum, Child Development/Behavioral Issues, Anger Management, Decision Making, ADHD/OCD, Intrusive Thoughts, Self-esteem, Concrete Functioning, Chronic Illness, Adjustment to End of Life & Relationship/Family Issues.
(929) 577-3922 View (929) 577-3922
Photo of Marta J Laurette, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syosset, NY
Marta J Laurette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577
I am a clinical social work therapist with the experience in outpatient mental health counseling. I work with adults from different walks of life, and diverse backgrounds. These patients might struggle with various diagnoses such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and post-traumatic stress disorder, with grief and chronic pain, and with a history of trauma and oppression. They might face situational stress due to job, family and relationship issues or life-stage transitions.
I am a clinical social work therapist with the experience in outpatient mental health counseling. I work with adults from different walks of life, and diverse backgrounds. These patients might struggle with various diagnoses such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and post-traumatic stress disorder, with grief and chronic pain, and with a history of trauma and oppression. They might face situational stress due to job, family and relationship issues or life-stage transitions.
(516) 614-4979 View (516) 614-4979
Photo of Catherine Provenzano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syosset, NY
Catherine Provenzano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, NY 11797
I am trained to work with adolescents diagnosed with Amplified Pain Syndrome for stress management & anxiety reduction.
It takes a lot of courage to ask for help. Choosing therapy means that you recognize something is negatively impacting you & you want to proactively do something to make it better. As a therapist, I believe that mental & physical health are interconnected. Many of us learned to bury negative emotions in order to fit in, earn love or be accepted. Unexpressed emotions live in our body & are often expressed physically, in the form of anxiety. My approach is holistic, using a combination of evidence-based practice therapies, including CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing & Mindfulness.
I am trained to work with adolescents diagnosed with Amplified Pain Syndrome for stress management & anxiety reduction.
It takes a lot of courage to ask for help. Choosing therapy means that you recognize something is negatively impacting you & you want to proactively do something to make it better. As a therapist, I believe that mental & physical health are interconnected. Many of us learned to bury negative emotions in order to fit in, earn love or be accepted. Unexpressed emotions live in our body & are often expressed physically, in the form of anxiety. My approach is holistic, using a combination of evidence-based practice therapies, including CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing & Mindfulness.
(516) 788-5922 View (516) 788-5922
Photo of Sahar Younai, Psychologist in Syosset, NY
Sahar Younai
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roslyn, NY 11576
It also helps greatly with insomnia, anxiety, and pain management.
Have you hit a wall in your ability to move forward despite your best efforts at seeking therapy? Has medication failed to make a dent in your symptoms? Have Cognitive Behavioral Approaches only helped a bit? Has anxiety already extracted too great of a cost on your life? I will do my utmost to help you. My treatment approach combines the best of QEEG guided neurofeedback with third-generation psychotherapeutic approaches. I will do my best to assist you in Being YOUR BEST SELF. Short-term treatment can yield long-term results! I utilize a 25 session therapeutic approach.
It also helps greatly with insomnia, anxiety, and pain management.
Have you hit a wall in your ability to move forward despite your best efforts at seeking therapy? Has medication failed to make a dent in your symptoms? Have Cognitive Behavioral Approaches only helped a bit? Has anxiety already extracted too great of a cost on your life? I will do my utmost to help you. My treatment approach combines the best of QEEG guided neurofeedback with third-generation psychotherapeutic approaches. I will do my best to assist you in Being YOUR BEST SELF. Short-term treatment can yield long-term results! I utilize a 25 session therapeutic approach.
(516) 272-4795 View (516) 272-4795
Photo of Key Insights Neuropsychology and Counseling, Psychologist in Syosset, NY
Key Insights Neuropsychology and Counseling
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Glen Head, NY 11545
Key Insights Neuropsychology and Counseling provides assessment and psychotherapy services for children, adolescents and adults. We specialize in comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations for disorders such as ADHD, autism, and learning disorders, as well as brain injuries and neurodegenerative conditions. We also provide counseling for individuals and families, including children of all ages, to treat a range of emotional, behavioral, and social concerns. Other specialties include cognitive remediation, executive and social skills training, chronic pain management, clinical hypnotherapy, and lifestyle behavioral health services.
Key Insights Neuropsychology and Counseling provides assessment and psychotherapy services for children, adolescents and adults. We specialize in comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations for disorders such as ADHD, autism, and learning disorders, as well as brain injuries and neurodegenerative conditions. We also provide counseling for individuals and families, including children of all ages, to treat a range of emotional, behavioral, and social concerns. Other specialties include cognitive remediation, executive and social skills training, chronic pain management, clinical hypnotherapy, and lifestyle behavioral health services.
(516) 830-4297 View (516) 830-4297
Photo of Joel Becker, Psychologist in Syosset, NY
Joel Becker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NY 11797
As an experienced clinician, I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Panic Attacks, Anxiety, stress reactions,PTSD and psychological/emotional response to illness.
A substantial subgroup recovering from COVID-19 are experiencing cognitive and/or Neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with the infection. I am providing screening and assessment of such symptoms. I am also working with the treatment of individuals recovering from COVID-19 providing Behavioral Medicine services. Panic attacks and overwhelming Anxiety including, Obsessive Compulsive Symptoms, PTSD, and Phobias have been observed. Alterations in mental status, decreased attention, focus, and cognitive fatigue are some of the neurocognitive symptoms worked with. The latest research and Best Practice Treatments are utilized.
As an experienced clinician, I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Panic Attacks, Anxiety, stress reactions,PTSD and psychological/emotional response to illness.
A substantial subgroup recovering from COVID-19 are experiencing cognitive and/or Neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with the infection. I am providing screening and assessment of such symptoms. I am also working with the treatment of individuals recovering from COVID-19 providing Behavioral Medicine services. Panic attacks and overwhelming Anxiety including, Obsessive Compulsive Symptoms, PTSD, and Phobias have been observed. Alterations in mental status, decreased attention, focus, and cognitive fatigue are some of the neurocognitive symptoms worked with. The latest research and Best Practice Treatments are utilized.
(888) 674-5845 View (888) 674-5845
Photo of Erica Mantell Hamilton, Psychologist in Syosset, NY
Erica Mantell Hamilton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803  (Online Only)
Do you feel you are riding an emotional rollercoaster? Alternatively, do you feel like you are living in auto-pilot, going through the motions in life without finding much satisfaction? Or maybe you are experiencing anxiety, depression, difficulty coping with past traumas, relationship or work difficulties, or are just feeling stuck. Although we may find ourselves surrounded by supportive family and friends, we may still feel alone and isolated in our distress. Pain in life may be unavoidable, but you don’t need to go through it alone.
Do you feel you are riding an emotional rollercoaster? Alternatively, do you feel like you are living in auto-pilot, going through the motions in life without finding much satisfaction? Or maybe you are experiencing anxiety, depression, difficulty coping with past traumas, relationship or work difficulties, or are just feeling stuck. Although we may find ourselves surrounded by supportive family and friends, we may still feel alone and isolated in our distress. Pain in life may be unavoidable, but you don’t need to go through it alone.
(516) 701-2789 View (516) 701-2789
Photo of Dr. Mary E Rzeszut, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syosset, NY
Dr. Mary E Rzeszut
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Mineola, NY 11501  (Online Only)
Living with a medical illness can be life altering.
Many of life's stressors can interfere in the ability to maintain emotional and physical well being. My practice is client centered so we will work on the issues most important to you and develop goals, and treatment plans of therapy or coaching together, to help you live your best life. I work with individuals, couples and families in many areas including life transitions, work related stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and chronic disease. I have over 17 years of experience as a therapist and as well as medical social work experience with a deep understanding of the mind body connection.
Living with a medical illness can be life altering.
Many of life's stressors can interfere in the ability to maintain emotional and physical well being. My practice is client centered so we will work on the issues most important to you and develop goals, and treatment plans of therapy or coaching together, to help you live your best life. I work with individuals, couples and families in many areas including life transitions, work related stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and chronic disease. I have over 17 years of experience as a therapist and as well as medical social work experience with a deep understanding of the mind body connection.
(516) 986-3693 View (516) 986-3693
Photo of Promise Pathways Mental Health Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Syosset, NY
Promise Pathways Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Centerport, NY 11721  (Online Only)
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and have used EMDR successfully for trauma, eating disorders, chronic pain and anxiety.
Therapy should be a place of security where you can release your fears and anxieties; stress and depression; your worries and troubling behaviors. Here, in a sympathetic environment, you can explore your strengths and achieve your goals in becoming the most vital version of yourself. Collaboratively, using my decade of experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I will provide that place of security and work with you at achieving the dynamic you.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and have used EMDR successfully for trauma, eating disorders, chronic pain and anxiety.
Therapy should be a place of security where you can release your fears and anxieties; stress and depression; your worries and troubling behaviors. Here, in a sympathetic environment, you can explore your strengths and achieve your goals in becoming the most vital version of yourself. Collaboratively, using my decade of experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I will provide that place of security and work with you at achieving the dynamic you.
(646) 576-7737 View (646) 576-7737
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.