Photo of Stephen Boyd, PhD, Psychologist
Stephen Boyd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in health psychology, treating conditions such as insomnia, chronic pain, tinnitus, and smoking cessation.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adults and adolescents with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and alcohol use. My approach is highly interpersonal and humanistic. This means that I adopt a compassionate and non-judgmental view with my clients, and strive to build a relationship of trust and understanding. I exclusively use evidenced-based treatments that have been thoroughly tested and found to be effective for improving mental health concerns. Together, we will develop new ways for you to cope with and resolve the issues that prompted you to seek care.
I have specialized training in health psychology, treating conditions such as insomnia, chronic pain, tinnitus, and smoking cessation.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adults and adolescents with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and alcohol use. My approach is highly interpersonal and humanistic. This means that I adopt a compassionate and non-judgmental view with my clients, and strive to build a relationship of trust and understanding. I exclusively use evidenced-based treatments that have been thoroughly tested and found to be effective for improving mental health concerns. Together, we will develop new ways for you to cope with and resolve the issues that prompted you to seek care.
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Photo of Jennifer Navarro, MA, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Navarro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Waitlist for new clients
The human condition is stressful for everyone right now. Healthcare providers, LGBTQ2SIA + and those with chronic pain/medical illness are feeling it more than ever. Depression, anxiety and trauma responses can be overlooked/minimized. What you are experiencing is real and you deserve the time, space and support to explore this. Are your thoughts, feelings and behaviors getting in the way of your relationships/work/goals/well-being? Are you taking better care of others than you are of yourself? Is it time to move beyond surviving and begin thriving? If so, perhaps it's time to reach out for a helping hand. All are welcome here.
The human condition is stressful for everyone right now. Healthcare providers, LGBTQ2SIA + and those with chronic pain/medical illness are feeling it more than ever. Depression, anxiety and trauma responses can be overlooked/minimized. What you are experiencing is real and you deserve the time, space and support to explore this. Are your thoughts, feelings and behaviors getting in the way of your relationships/work/goals/well-being? Are you taking better care of others than you are of yourself? Is it time to move beyond surviving and begin thriving? If so, perhaps it's time to reach out for a helping hand. All are welcome here.
(503) 868-2273 View (503) 868-2273
Photo of Elise Bascom, PsyD, Psychologist
Elise Bascom
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
Experiencing trauma, stress, or chronic pain/ illness can be overwhelming, making it difficult to find relief and joy in daily life. You might feel trapped in your pain or struggle to cope with stress, leading to feelings of isolation and frustration. My goal is to provide a supportive and understanding environment where we can explore these challenges together and find a path to healing and resilience. Whether you're dealing with past trauma or ongoing stress, I'm here to help you navigate your journey towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Experiencing trauma, stress, or chronic pain/ illness can be overwhelming, making it difficult to find relief and joy in daily life. You might feel trapped in your pain or struggle to cope with stress, leading to feelings of isolation and frustration. My goal is to provide a supportive and understanding environment where we can explore these challenges together and find a path to healing and resilience. Whether you're dealing with past trauma or ongoing stress, I'm here to help you navigate your journey towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(971) 251-2559 View (971) 251-2559
Photo of Melissa Ellsworth, PhD, Psychologist
Melissa Ellsworth
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I work with individuals & couples struggling with chronic pain, OCD and health anxiety, sexual and relational difficulties, gender identity and other LGBTQ+ issues, developmental trauma, attachment issues & faith transitions.
Do you ever feel stuck in a body that doesn't feel, act or look the way you want it to? Does it feel like your brain and body are out of sync? Whether it be chronic pain, sexual difficulties or gender incongruence - I'm here to help you get your mind and body back into alignment. As a queer and neurodivergent clinical psychologist, I will tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, and offer the tools and support you need to feel less pain, more sexual freedom and gender affirmation.
I work with individuals & couples struggling with chronic pain, OCD and health anxiety, sexual and relational difficulties, gender identity and other LGBTQ+ issues, developmental trauma, attachment issues & faith transitions.
Do you ever feel stuck in a body that doesn't feel, act or look the way you want it to? Does it feel like your brain and body are out of sync? Whether it be chronic pain, sexual difficulties or gender incongruence - I'm here to help you get your mind and body back into alignment. As a queer and neurodivergent clinical psychologist, I will tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, and offer the tools and support you need to feel less pain, more sexual freedom and gender affirmation.
(971) 396-3205 View (971) 396-3205
Photo of Carrie Farrell - Training the Complete Athlete, LPC, Counselor
Training the Complete Athlete
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211
The focus of Training the Complete Athlete is to serve teens and young adults with a variety of mental health concerns. Our primary focus is working with athletes and other high performers, but we also work with families, adults and clients that deal with medical issues or chronic pain. We want our clients to feel heard and gain the skills to make a change and re-enter their life with confidence, skills and a sense of self-control.
The focus of Training the Complete Athlete is to serve teens and young adults with a variety of mental health concerns. Our primary focus is working with athletes and other high performers, but we also work with families, adults and clients that deal with medical issues or chronic pain. We want our clients to feel heard and gain the skills to make a change and re-enter their life with confidence, skills and a sense of self-control.
(360) 646-2335 View (360) 646-2335
Photo of Robert Ross - Bob Ross, LCSW, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bob Ross, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225
Since 2006 I've also specialized in helping people with chronic pain.
Are you struggling with painful emotions, troubling thoughts, unwanted behaviors, relationship difficulties, or disabling physical conditions like chronic pain? Therapy can help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified-Clinical Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Social Worker, with decades of counseling experience. I offer individual and group therapy, psycho-education and consulting for adults experiencing mental health, substance abuse, or chronic health difficulties. I collaborate with you, building on your strengths, to help you explore new insights, skills and solutions. My approach is holistic, compassionate, non-judgmental, and integrative. I would be honored to join your healing journey.
Since 2006 I've also specialized in helping people with chronic pain.
Are you struggling with painful emotions, troubling thoughts, unwanted behaviors, relationship difficulties, or disabling physical conditions like chronic pain? Therapy can help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified-Clinical Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Social Worker, with decades of counseling experience. I offer individual and group therapy, psycho-education and consulting for adults experiencing mental health, substance abuse, or chronic health difficulties. I collaborate with you, building on your strengths, to help you explore new insights, skills and solutions. My approach is holistic, compassionate, non-judgmental, and integrative. I would be honored to join your healing journey.
(971) 983-8080 View (971) 983-8080
Photo of Amy Pearson Dahla - Amy Dahla, LPC, LLC, LPC, NCC, CADCIII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Dahla, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CADCIII
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
I provide counseling services to adults of all ages who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, chronic pain, interpersonal difficulties, as well as workplace issues. I am trained to work with victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. My therapeutic approach involves open-minded and caring collaboration with my clients to help transform adversity into empowerment. I provide both brief and long-term therapy.
I provide counseling services to adults of all ages who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, chronic pain, interpersonal difficulties, as well as workplace issues. I am trained to work with victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. My therapeutic approach involves open-minded and caring collaboration with my clients to help transform adversity into empowerment. I provide both brief and long-term therapy.
(541) 207-1467 View (541) 207-1467
Photo of Olivia Rogers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olivia Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
My areas of focus are helping people experiencing chronic pain, support during transitions and times of stress, anxiety relief, identity exploration, support with navigating the complexities of relationships, and trauma recovery.
I use a client centered approach, which means you will be in the driver's seat regarding the areas of your life that you want to discuss, and I will be your co-pilot, helping to navigate the terrain and offering you tools and wisdom along the way. My counseling approach is collaborative, genuine, and relational. I approach counseling with an unconditional positive regard for my clients. My clients would describe my style as down to earth and relatable. I strive to create an atmosphere that is safe and free of judgement so that you feel comfortable discussing difficult topics.
My areas of focus are helping people experiencing chronic pain, support during transitions and times of stress, anxiety relief, identity exploration, support with navigating the complexities of relationships, and trauma recovery.
I use a client centered approach, which means you will be in the driver's seat regarding the areas of your life that you want to discuss, and I will be your co-pilot, helping to navigate the terrain and offering you tools and wisdom along the way. My counseling approach is collaborative, genuine, and relational. I approach counseling with an unconditional positive regard for my clients. My clients would describe my style as down to earth and relatable. I strive to create an atmosphere that is safe and free of judgement so that you feel comfortable discussing difficult topics.
(541) 515-6942 View (541) 515-6942
Photo of Paul Guinther, PhD, Psychologist
Paul Guinther
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
As a licensed psychologist I am able to help people who are struggling with a variety of health concerns, including chronic pain, trauma/PTSD, persistent complex bereavement (impairing grief lasting more than one year), anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship issues.
Your pain is a key that can unlock the door to a better life. As a psychologist, I work to help you turn that key- to help open yourself to the compassion, enjoyment, and fulfillment that are waiting for you. I can help you through life's problems using evidence based therapy, meaning we will practice techniques that science has shown work when people commit to the process. I use a form of cognitive behavioral therapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which has been shown by research to be effective not only in reducing suffering but also in increasing life satisfaction.
As a licensed psychologist I am able to help people who are struggling with a variety of health concerns, including chronic pain, trauma/PTSD, persistent complex bereavement (impairing grief lasting more than one year), anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship issues.
Your pain is a key that can unlock the door to a better life. As a psychologist, I work to help you turn that key- to help open yourself to the compassion, enjoyment, and fulfillment that are waiting for you. I can help you through life's problems using evidence based therapy, meaning we will practice techniques that science has shown work when people commit to the process. I use a form of cognitive behavioral therapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which has been shown by research to be effective not only in reducing suffering but also in increasing life satisfaction.
(971) 247-9984 View (971) 247-9984
Photo of Lindsey Cullins, MSW, CSWA
Lindsey Cullins
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
You may feel weighed down by anxiety, stress, or depression. Sometimes you question your ability to find peace or cope with everything happening in your life. Maybe you’re going through a big transition, dealing with chronic health challenges, or struggling with the deep pain of grief and loss. Deep down, you’re seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a sense of trust in yourself. You want to break free from the patterns that hold you back—whether that’s self-doubt, limiting beliefs, or relationship difficulties. Most of all, you’re looking for a safe, supportive space to explore your feelings and build strength to move forward.
You may feel weighed down by anxiety, stress, or depression. Sometimes you question your ability to find peace or cope with everything happening in your life. Maybe you’re going through a big transition, dealing with chronic health challenges, or struggling with the deep pain of grief and loss. Deep down, you’re seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a sense of trust in yourself. You want to break free from the patterns that hold you back—whether that’s self-doubt, limiting beliefs, or relationship difficulties. Most of all, you’re looking for a safe, supportive space to explore your feelings and build strength to move forward.
(503) 966-3310 View (503) 966-3310
Photo of Annie Dolle @ Arrival Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annie Dolle @ Arrival Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Join with me and allow connection, safety, and curiosity to unearth your fullest self. Become a compassionate observer of your own experience as your nervous system aligns in relationship. Tired of contracting and reacting? Together we can find ways to experience and respond to life as it comes. What have you experienced? What strategies have you employed to cope? What have you come to believe about yourself and others? Lets take a look at your goals and concerns and move towards a functional and connected you. There are reasons for your current pain, and It is possible to feel better.
Join with me and allow connection, safety, and curiosity to unearth your fullest self. Become a compassionate observer of your own experience as your nervous system aligns in relationship. Tired of contracting and reacting? Together we can find ways to experience and respond to life as it comes. What have you experienced? What strategies have you employed to cope? What have you come to believe about yourself and others? Lets take a look at your goals and concerns and move towards a functional and connected you. There are reasons for your current pain, and It is possible to feel better.
(503) 563-7407 View (503) 563-7407
Photo of Florence Trentacosti, PsyD, Psychologist
Florence Trentacosti
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225
I have much experience with health problems and can assist people in developing healthy lifestyle, diet, etc and to recover from illness.
The therapeutic relationship is crucial to the healing process, whether the problem is with external relationships, traumatic experience, or one's relationship with the self. I use psychoanalytic principles and relational dynamics to explore the internal conflicts and patterns that are at the root of emotional, psychological and relational problems. I am also sensitive to spirituality and the existential problems inherent in being human, and how these affect us all. I have a special interest in the psychology of twins and intersubjective relating in general.
I have much experience with health problems and can assist people in developing healthy lifestyle, diet, etc and to recover from illness.
The therapeutic relationship is crucial to the healing process, whether the problem is with external relationships, traumatic experience, or one's relationship with the self. I use psychoanalytic principles and relational dynamics to explore the internal conflicts and patterns that are at the root of emotional, psychological and relational problems. I am also sensitive to spirituality and the existential problems inherent in being human, and how these affect us all. I have a special interest in the psychology of twins and intersubjective relating in general.
(503) 966-4623 View (503) 966-4623
Photo of Tressa Ernst, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tressa Ernst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97233
Education & Experience: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 2012. MSW, University of Chicago: Evidence Based Practice Program, 2010. BA in Psychology, Trinity Western University: Human Services Program, 2006 Tressa has worked with children, adolescents, and their families at an inpatient psychiatry unit, as well as with adults with co-occurring substance use issues and mental illness on a community mental health outreach team, and on an integrated primary care team providing group and individual counseling.
Education & Experience: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 2012. MSW, University of Chicago: Evidence Based Practice Program, 2010. BA in Psychology, Trinity Western University: Human Services Program, 2006 Tressa has worked with children, adolescents, and their families at an inpatient psychiatry unit, as well as with adults with co-occurring substance use issues and mental illness on a community mental health outreach team, and on an integrated primary care team providing group and individual counseling.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Stephanie Brell - Mended with Gold Counseling, LCSW, CADCI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mended with Gold Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCI
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
My experience includes work in many settings: private practice, major hospital systems, pain management, mental health, addiction treatment, hospice and home health home care, & teaching.
Each one of us possesses problem-solving strengths. In times of transition and stress, these strengths can seem dormant. Therapy can uncover and further develop personal resiliency. I help people enhance their unique coping strategies, to move toward a life of integrity and strength. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort, with your skills, life experience and hopes an important factor in how our sessions proceed. It takes a lot of courage to start therapy. I am continually awed by the people I see in counseling. It's an honor to be involved in this work.
My experience includes work in many settings: private practice, major hospital systems, pain management, mental health, addiction treatment, hospice and home health home care, & teaching.
Each one of us possesses problem-solving strengths. In times of transition and stress, these strengths can seem dormant. Therapy can uncover and further develop personal resiliency. I help people enhance their unique coping strategies, to move toward a life of integrity and strength. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort, with your skills, life experience and hopes an important factor in how our sessions proceed. It takes a lot of courage to start therapy. I am continually awed by the people I see in counseling. It's an honor to be involved in this work.
(503) 828-9480 View (503) 828-9480
Photo of Amy Swallow - Opal & Sage Art Therapy, Amy Swallow, LPC, LCAT, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Opal & Sage Art Therapy, Amy Swallow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
If you are experiencing a difficult life transition or emotional pain, such as grief/loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, or illness, art therapy can be highly beneficial.
Opal & Sage offers individual and group art therapy and counseling services that are person-centered and strengths-based. I welcome adult clients of all ages and abilities, with any personal concerns and conflicts regarding mental health. I specialize in working with individuals with dementia, traumatic brain injury, developmental disabilities, and physical disabilities.
If you are experiencing a difficult life transition or emotional pain, such as grief/loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, or illness, art therapy can be highly beneficial.
Opal & Sage offers individual and group art therapy and counseling services that are person-centered and strengths-based. I welcome adult clients of all ages and abilities, with any personal concerns and conflicts regarding mental health. I specialize in working with individuals with dementia, traumatic brain injury, developmental disabilities, and physical disabilities.
(503) 506-2941 View (503) 506-2941
Photo of Kimberlee Dennery, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberlee Dennery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Hello, I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families I specialize in treating anxiety and depression. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. I also enjoy working with teenage and younger clients. I see many people who are going through life transitions. When one is going through grief and loss, education challenges, relationship difficulties, a new family member, pain or illness, it can be particularly difficult to cope and particularly beneficial to be in therapy to work through these issues with an unbiased ear. I also specialize in working with individuals who have struggles with chronic pain.
Hello, I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families I specialize in treating anxiety and depression. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. I also enjoy working with teenage and younger clients. I see many people who are going through life transitions. When one is going through grief and loss, education challenges, relationship difficulties, a new family member, pain or illness, it can be particularly difficult to cope and particularly beneficial to be in therapy to work through these issues with an unbiased ear. I also specialize in working with individuals who have struggles with chronic pain.
(503) 300-5309 View (503) 300-5309
Photo of Kerry L Powers, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kerry L Powers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am profoundly blessed to do work that I love. I strive to deeply witness, understand and hold space for you in your moments of pain and uncertainty. In times of hardship we must be compassionate with ourselves and our process. We all have uniquely rich and complex stories that shape our own meaning and understanding of ourselves and our world. I provide a safe, encouraging and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. My style is warm, collaborative and direct. I believe compassion and humor are vital ingredients for happiness and healing. My approach is integrative, I utilize a strength based, humanistic and relational perspective.
I am profoundly blessed to do work that I love. I strive to deeply witness, understand and hold space for you in your moments of pain and uncertainty. In times of hardship we must be compassionate with ourselves and our process. We all have uniquely rich and complex stories that shape our own meaning and understanding of ourselves and our world. I provide a safe, encouraging and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. My style is warm, collaborative and direct. I believe compassion and humor are vital ingredients for happiness and healing. My approach is integrative, I utilize a strength based, humanistic and relational perspective.
(971) 259-0524 View (971) 259-0524
Photo of Tamar Kaplan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamar Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults going through life stage transitions, specifically older adults ages 65+ as well as Millennial/Gen Z young professionals. I help people with anxiety, stress, depression, career changes, chronic illness, low self-esteem, and loneliness. I work with people who have been in therapy before as well as people who are trying therapy for the first time- both are wonderful and both are welcome!
I specialize in working with adults going through life stage transitions, specifically older adults ages 65+ as well as Millennial/Gen Z young professionals. I help people with anxiety, stress, depression, career changes, chronic illness, low self-esteem, and loneliness. I work with people who have been in therapy before as well as people who are trying therapy for the first time- both are wonderful and both are welcome!
(971) 265-8669 View (971) 265-8669
Photo of Julie Kahler, PhD, Psychologist
Julie Kahler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
I have specialties in: Trauma Processing, Chronic Pain, Insomnia, Identity Exploration, Functional Behavioral Analysis, and Processing Loss.
I am a licensed psychologist providing video telehealth & in-person counseling to adults in Oregon who are struggling in their lives and relationships. Together, we explore the habits and beliefs that keep them from realizing their potential. In my practice, clients discover clarity about their values and boundaries, and are empowered to make change in their lives. My approach is to build a relationship of support and trust with you that offers the safety to explore problems with flexibility and curiosity. My clinical and research experience has given me expertise in human behaviors and emotions, but you are the expert of yourself.
I have specialties in: Trauma Processing, Chronic Pain, Insomnia, Identity Exploration, Functional Behavioral Analysis, and Processing Loss.
I am a licensed psychologist providing video telehealth & in-person counseling to adults in Oregon who are struggling in their lives and relationships. Together, we explore the habits and beliefs that keep them from realizing their potential. In my practice, clients discover clarity about their values and boundaries, and are empowered to make change in their lives. My approach is to build a relationship of support and trust with you that offers the safety to explore problems with flexibility and curiosity. My clinical and research experience has given me expertise in human behaviors and emotions, but you are the expert of yourself.
(503) 298-5208 View (503) 298-5208
Photo of Eileen B Summit, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eileen B Summit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
It is normal to feel the need for support when you are experiencing pain, sadness, or fear.
I work with women, 21-101, who are facing life transitions, health issues and loss. I specialize in working with women who are experiencing anxiety or depression, struggling to overcome negative thought patterns and interactions, or facing serious health issues, caregiving issues or loss of a loved one   I believe each woman has the inner strength needed to heal and take steps toward life-giving goals.
It is normal to feel the need for support when you are experiencing pain, sadness, or fear.
I work with women, 21-101, who are facing life transitions, health issues and loss. I specialize in working with women who are experiencing anxiety or depression, struggling to overcome negative thought patterns and interactions, or facing serious health issues, caregiving issues or loss of a loved one   I believe each woman has the inner strength needed to heal and take steps toward life-giving goals.
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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.