Chronic Pain Therapists in Berwick, PA

Photo of Nanticoke / Berwick Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berwick, PA
Nanticoke / Berwick Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Berwick, PA 18603
We strongly believe in a person's ability to bring about positive change in their own life and help them achieve this through the development of a healthy, supportive therapeutic environment. Our approach is tailored to meet the individual needs of each client, using solution focused and evidence based interventions. We work with adults and children providing individual, marital/relationship and family therapy.
We strongly believe in a person's ability to bring about positive change in their own life and help them achieve this through the development of a healthy, supportive therapeutic environment. Our approach is tailored to meet the individual needs of each client, using solution focused and evidence based interventions. We work with adults and children providing individual, marital/relationship and family therapy.
(570) 647-4484 View (570) 647-4484

Online Therapists

Photo of Jessica B Covitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berwick, PA
Jessica B Covitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I have experience helping with depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, chronic pain and illness.
Sometimes we look around and life is not the way we want it to be: full of disappointment, stress, sadness or loss. Sometimes we need help finding our way. In my practice, I seek to create a compassionate, supportive space for collaborative exploration, growth and positive change. I create a place where you can be seen and acknowledged, and you can give words to feelings and experiences, to discover greater understanding and self- awareness. When we understand our patterns of behaviors and feelings, we can free ourselves of the unwanted burdens that weigh us down, and live more fully and happily in the present.
I have experience helping with depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, chronic pain and illness.
Sometimes we look around and life is not the way we want it to be: full of disappointment, stress, sadness or loss. Sometimes we need help finding our way. In my practice, I seek to create a compassionate, supportive space for collaborative exploration, growth and positive change. I create a place where you can be seen and acknowledged, and you can give words to feelings and experiences, to discover greater understanding and self- awareness. When we understand our patterns of behaviors and feelings, we can free ourselves of the unwanted burdens that weigh us down, and live more fully and happily in the present.
(215) 740-7681 View (215) 740-7681
Photo of Mandi Resnick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berwick, PA
Mandi Resnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19382
I have experience in healthcare settings both inpatient and outpatient- specifically working with chronic illness and/or cancer patients.
Hello, my name is Mandi and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I want to applaud you for taking this first step in seeking help. Sometimes the initial outreach is the hardest for us to overcome as many of us feel we should be able to navigate life on our own. However, sometimes an outside perspective is what is needed to help shed some light on all your amazing qualities that you already possess. I am passionate about meeting each individual where they are and I aim to create a strong therapeutic connection with my clients, built on trust, safety and understanding
I have experience in healthcare settings both inpatient and outpatient- specifically working with chronic illness and/or cancer patients.
Hello, my name is Mandi and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I want to applaud you for taking this first step in seeking help. Sometimes the initial outreach is the hardest for us to overcome as many of us feel we should be able to navigate life on our own. However, sometimes an outside perspective is what is needed to help shed some light on all your amazing qualities that you already possess. I am passionate about meeting each individual where they are and I aim to create a strong therapeutic connection with my clients, built on trust, safety and understanding
(484) 673-6115 View (484) 673-6115
Photo of Kelly L Lengel, Psychologist in Berwick, PA
Kelly L Lengel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glenside, PA 19038
I practice a holistic model focusing on addressing body, mind, and spirit. Clients I see often come in wanting to decrease feeling anxious or depressed. Other issues I commonly address are managing navigating transitions, managing chronic pain and illness, supporting sobriety and getting unstuck from problems in relationships or work. I strive to support clients in building lives that are meaningful for them.
I practice a holistic model focusing on addressing body, mind, and spirit. Clients I see often come in wanting to decrease feeling anxious or depressed. Other issues I commonly address are managing navigating transitions, managing chronic pain and illness, supporting sobriety and getting unstuck from problems in relationships or work. I strive to support clients in building lives that are meaningful for them.
(484) 812-3097 View (484) 812-3097
Photo of Laura Hawley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berwick, PA
Laura Hawley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Lic, Ac
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I've helped many people challenged by family history, trauma, anxiety, depression, overwhelm, burnout, isolation, grief and chronic illness to resolve difficulties at work, home or in relationships.
It is hard being a person. We often engage in patterns of feeling, thought and action that reliably lead to suffering. These patterns arise in response to difficult and even traumatic experiences. They made good sense at some point, but now get in the way, causing anxiety, depression, shame and frustration. I work with people to bring increased awareness to the human potential caught up in old patterns, and via that awareness, to an enhanced sense of choice and self confidence and ease. My work draws on your wisdom, as well as my own.
I've helped many people challenged by family history, trauma, anxiety, depression, overwhelm, burnout, isolation, grief and chronic illness to resolve difficulties at work, home or in relationships.
It is hard being a person. We often engage in patterns of feeling, thought and action that reliably lead to suffering. These patterns arise in response to difficult and even traumatic experiences. They made good sense at some point, but now get in the way, causing anxiety, depression, shame and frustration. I work with people to bring increased awareness to the human potential caught up in old patterns, and via that awareness, to an enhanced sense of choice and self confidence and ease. My work draws on your wisdom, as well as my own.
(215) 515-6272 View (215) 515-6272
Photo of Kelly Reed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berwick, PA
Kelly Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, ALC
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18902
Through the benefits of Holistic Integrated Psychotherapy, you will reduce stress, develop new skills to respond to pain, balance physical/emotional symptoms, heal from traumas, release habits that no longer serve you, resolve grief/loss, establish healthy relationships with yourself and others, and achieve greater well-being.
Are you interested in a Holistic and Integrative approach to Psychotherapy and how it can help you heal and grow? Perhaps you are searching for relief from life's stressors or from the overwhelming moods, emotions, and behaviors that result. And perhaps you are seeking healing of mind, body, and spirit, or you feel a deep sense that there is more to life than how you are living and are looking for a new way of thinking and being in the world. Through my unique approach to psychotherapy, I will assist you in finding and actualizing the healing you are searching for.
Through the benefits of Holistic Integrated Psychotherapy, you will reduce stress, develop new skills to respond to pain, balance physical/emotional symptoms, heal from traumas, release habits that no longer serve you, resolve grief/loss, establish healthy relationships with yourself and others, and achieve greater well-being.
Are you interested in a Holistic and Integrative approach to Psychotherapy and how it can help you heal and grow? Perhaps you are searching for relief from life's stressors or from the overwhelming moods, emotions, and behaviors that result. And perhaps you are seeking healing of mind, body, and spirit, or you feel a deep sense that there is more to life than how you are living and are looking for a new way of thinking and being in the world. Through my unique approach to psychotherapy, I will assist you in finding and actualizing the healing you are searching for.
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Photo of Jessica Dean Russo, Psychologist in Berwick, PA
Jessica Dean Russo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Life can be difficult at times, sometimes overwhelming. We may not trust ourselves to walk the path that is best for us, second-guessing and blocking our innate knowing of what is right and wrong. I work with adults, children and couples, providing a safe environment of warmth and unconditional positive regard, so that each person can have the space to discover who he or she is and what steps are needed to better manage conflicts. I work with those suffering from low self-esteem, trauma, relational and transition issues, chronic pain and addiction.
Life can be difficult at times, sometimes overwhelming. We may not trust ourselves to walk the path that is best for us, second-guessing and blocking our innate knowing of what is right and wrong. I work with adults, children and couples, providing a safe environment of warmth and unconditional positive regard, so that each person can have the space to discover who he or she is and what steps are needed to better manage conflicts. I work with those suffering from low self-esteem, trauma, relational and transition issues, chronic pain and addiction.
(215) 987-5816 View (215) 987-5816
Photo of Lindsey Gilbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berwick, PA
Lindsey Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellsville, PA 17365  (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients struggling with chronic pain, medical issues, anxiety, and depression.
Making the decision to begin therapy takes courage and finding the right therapist is an important step in the process. My primary role is to empower you, the client, to make desired changes in your life. You are worth it!
I have experience working with clients struggling with chronic pain, medical issues, anxiety, and depression.
Making the decision to begin therapy takes courage and finding the right therapist is an important step in the process. My primary role is to empower you, the client, to make desired changes in your life. You are worth it!
(223) 215-5799 View (223) 215-5799
Photo of The Ctr for Growth/ Sex Therapy in Philadelphia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berwick, PA
The Ctr for Growth/ Sex Therapy in Philadelphia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Alex Caroline Robboy, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW is the founder of the Center for Growth Inc, a 30 + therapist group practice in 4 states. She has 20+ years of experience working with children and adults who are struggling to overcome sexual disorders, postpartum depression, grief, panic, chronic pain, depression, anger, anxiety, shame. trauma, tourettes and addiction. She focuses on individuals, couples and family therapy. Therapists at Alex's practice are able to see clients for as low as 50$. You cam self schedule online at her website.
Alex Caroline Robboy, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW is the founder of the Center for Growth Inc, a 30 + therapist group practice in 4 states. She has 20+ years of experience working with children and adults who are struggling to overcome sexual disorders, postpartum depression, grief, panic, chronic pain, depression, anger, anxiety, shame. trauma, tourettes and addiction. She focuses on individuals, couples and family therapy. Therapists at Alex's practice are able to see clients for as low as 50$. You cam self schedule online at her website.
(267) 888-4162 View (267) 888-4162
Photo of Sophie Doar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berwick, PA
Sophie Doar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with trans/gender-expansive individuals, trauma survivors, those struggling with chronic pelvic pain, and navigating relationship issues.
Therapy has the ability to free us from the patterns that keep us from experiencing the fullness of life. It can give us access to the wisdom and inner tools that help us live more authentically. Whether you struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, matters of sexual or gender identity, or some other life transition, I prioritize creating a foundation of safety and trust. Together, we will help you to feel more freedom and connection in your life.
I have extensive experience working with trans/gender-expansive individuals, trauma survivors, those struggling with chronic pelvic pain, and navigating relationship issues.
Therapy has the ability to free us from the patterns that keep us from experiencing the fullness of life. It can give us access to the wisdom and inner tools that help us live more authentically. Whether you struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, matters of sexual or gender identity, or some other life transition, I prioritize creating a foundation of safety and trust. Together, we will help you to feel more freedom and connection in your life.
(215) 709-8759 View (215) 709-8759
Photo of Bianca O'Connor McDermott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berwick, PA
Bianca O'Connor McDermott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046  (Online Only)
Being a caregiver for a loved one who has a chronic or terminal illness can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. It also comes with stresses that can be hard for friends and family to understand. Being a person who needs help to manage day to day activities of living can also be hard to handle, even if the help is appreciated. Sudden life changes are difficult to navigate; such as loss of a loved one, death of a pet, or diagnosis of a debilitating disease. Even positive changes like retirement, downsizing, or relocation can be painful at times. Talking it through can help.
Being a caregiver for a loved one who has a chronic or terminal illness can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. It also comes with stresses that can be hard for friends and family to understand. Being a person who needs help to manage day to day activities of living can also be hard to handle, even if the help is appreciated. Sudden life changes are difficult to navigate; such as loss of a loved one, death of a pet, or diagnosis of a debilitating disease. Even positive changes like retirement, downsizing, or relocation can be painful at times. Talking it through can help.
(215) 486-2674 View (215) 486-2674
Photo of Dr. Elanah D. Naftali, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berwick, PA
Dr. Elanah D. Naftali
Marriage & Family Therapist, DrPH, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19144  (Online Only)
Focusing awareness on physical sensations (like chronic pain & tension), breathing, and emotions brings us into the present moment.
When anxiety and depression run wild, our relationships suffer and self confidence is eroded. I help Individuals restore wholeness and safety; especially after a trauma from long ago, or just yesterday. I also work with individuals longing for deeper connection and joy in their personal and work relationships. I blend body-based approaches, mindfulness and hypnotherapy to offer tangible tools for staying healthy and grounded; especially when life's running us and lacks vitality.
Focusing awareness on physical sensations (like chronic pain & tension), breathing, and emotions brings us into the present moment.
When anxiety and depression run wild, our relationships suffer and self confidence is eroded. I help Individuals restore wholeness and safety; especially after a trauma from long ago, or just yesterday. I also work with individuals longing for deeper connection and joy in their personal and work relationships. I blend body-based approaches, mindfulness and hypnotherapy to offer tangible tools for staying healthy and grounded; especially when life's running us and lacks vitality.
(215) 498-6360 View (215) 498-6360
Photo of Kelly N Craney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berwick, PA
Kelly N Craney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southampton, PA 18966
The majority of my clients are people who have struggled to find relief from traditional medicine (and traditional approaches to addressing complex ailments/struggles). I am grateful that these individuals find relief here. Many of my patients have been able to resolve complex challenges in just a few months of biweekly sessions. Areas of specialized care & success include, but are not limited to: trauma, chronic pain, nerve damage, complex medical conditions, grief, spiritual development, struggles with weight, stomach/GI issues, insomnia, anxiety, depression, medication intolerance, and some areas of addiction.
The majority of my clients are people who have struggled to find relief from traditional medicine (and traditional approaches to addressing complex ailments/struggles). I am grateful that these individuals find relief here. Many of my patients have been able to resolve complex challenges in just a few months of biweekly sessions. Areas of specialized care & success include, but are not limited to: trauma, chronic pain, nerve damage, complex medical conditions, grief, spiritual development, struggles with weight, stomach/GI issues, insomnia, anxiety, depression, medication intolerance, and some areas of addiction.
(267) 871-9969 View (267) 871-9969
Photo of Jen Huber, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berwick, PA
Jen Huber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19121  (Online Only)
Experiencing several significant losses and dealing with my own physical health issues earlier in life served to help me recognize a deep sensitivity for the pain that people carry. As a therapist it is imperative to me that I do not ask my clients to go somewhere I am not willing to go. I seek to create spaces that are safe, welcoming and stable for client's experiencing distress from past or present. As our nervous systems have created ways to adapt and survive, I believe in the exploration and healing from the deepest parts of ourselves.
Experiencing several significant losses and dealing with my own physical health issues earlier in life served to help me recognize a deep sensitivity for the pain that people carry. As a therapist it is imperative to me that I do not ask my clients to go somewhere I am not willing to go. I seek to create spaces that are safe, welcoming and stable for client's experiencing distress from past or present. As our nervous systems have created ways to adapt and survive, I believe in the exploration and healing from the deepest parts of ourselves.
(215) 250-2352 View (215) 250-2352
Photo of Breesha Comish, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berwick, PA
Breesha Comish
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17602
If you are feeling lost or stuck in life, feeling haunted by a past event, navigating illness, wish to feel closer to your partner or to improve your communication, please me via email welcome@sunpointwellness.
I help couples and individuals work through life’s challenges. I use a caring approach while integrating effective treatment models to help people thrive in life. Specialties Include: Couples Therapy for Desire Differences, Sexual Issues, Communication Issues, Intimacy Conflict, Navigation of Medical dx, and Trauma. I am open to working with individuals and couples who have traditional as well as non-traditional partnerships. I provide a supportive and safe space for individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community. I also specialize in helping young adults recover from childhood trauma and in empowering them to find their own path in life.
If you are feeling lost or stuck in life, feeling haunted by a past event, navigating illness, wish to feel closer to your partner or to improve your communication, please me via email welcome@sunpointwellness.
I help couples and individuals work through life’s challenges. I use a caring approach while integrating effective treatment models to help people thrive in life. Specialties Include: Couples Therapy for Desire Differences, Sexual Issues, Communication Issues, Intimacy Conflict, Navigation of Medical dx, and Trauma. I am open to working with individuals and couples who have traditional as well as non-traditional partnerships. I provide a supportive and safe space for individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community. I also specialize in helping young adults recover from childhood trauma and in empowering them to find their own path in life.
(717) 297-1974 View (717) 297-1974
Photo of Elaine L Goldhammer in Berwick, PA
Elaine L Goldhammer
MD
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
Treat yourself to a relaxing, transformative session that lifts fear, lifts pain, reduces unnecessary suffering, and empowers you.
I offer a safe, fast, and effective combination of hypnotherapy and life coaching to help every client gain relief from mental and physical suffering. Clients are often unsure why they stay stuck in anxiety cycles in their lives, or can't stay on track with their health or their goals. Hypnotherapy is a direct way to uncover the subconscious thought patterns and solve the problem at the source. Inner Freedom Therapy can be used in conjunction with traditional therapy. It works well as a turbo booster to more traditional therapy or as a stand-alone resolution to emotional suffering around life, body, and/or health.
Treat yourself to a relaxing, transformative session that lifts fear, lifts pain, reduces unnecessary suffering, and empowers you.
I offer a safe, fast, and effective combination of hypnotherapy and life coaching to help every client gain relief from mental and physical suffering. Clients are often unsure why they stay stuck in anxiety cycles in their lives, or can't stay on track with their health or their goals. Hypnotherapy is a direct way to uncover the subconscious thought patterns and solve the problem at the source. Inner Freedom Therapy can be used in conjunction with traditional therapy. It works well as a turbo booster to more traditional therapy or as a stand-alone resolution to emotional suffering around life, body, and/or health.
(610) 632-7857 View (610) 632-7857
Photo of Sheryl Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berwick, PA
Sheryl Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carlisle, PA 17015
I have experience in helping people dealing with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, OCD, depression, illness, grief and loss, stress, anger, and this includes justice involved situations.
Accepting New Clients! No one told us that being an adult is so hard. There are so many ups and downs, responsibilities, bills to pay and people counting us. Work stress, personal stress, it can be tough just getting through the day. Do you have problems with depression, anxiety or past traumas that just make life harder. Sometimes we get so caught up in day-to-day life that we forget to stop and take care of ourselves. Maybe it’s time to stop and re-assess your situation, and start working on making some positive changes in your life. Asking for help is the first step.
I have experience in helping people dealing with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, OCD, depression, illness, grief and loss, stress, anger, and this includes justice involved situations.
Accepting New Clients! No one told us that being an adult is so hard. There are so many ups and downs, responsibilities, bills to pay and people counting us. Work stress, personal stress, it can be tough just getting through the day. Do you have problems with depression, anxiety or past traumas that just make life harder. Sometimes we get so caught up in day-to-day life that we forget to stop and take care of ourselves. Maybe it’s time to stop and re-assess your situation, and start working on making some positive changes in your life. Asking for help is the first step.
(223) 204-9472 View (223) 204-9472
Photo of Hilary Sweedler Chentow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berwick, PA
Hilary Sweedler Chentow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Havertown, PA 19083  (Online Only)
Hilary Chentow is a therapist licensed in WA, PA and DE. Hilary works with clients from a wide range of backgrounds, situations, and mental health goals. She is passionate about supporting LGBTQ folks, especially those who would like to explore their gender. Many clients work with Hilary to find a sense of meaning as they go through major life transitions, which could include marriage, divorce, becoming a parent, switching careers, or moving to a new place. She also supports clients who struggle with chronic illness, the negative impacts of trauma, or coping with infertility, abortion and miscarriage.
Hilary Chentow is a therapist licensed in WA, PA and DE. Hilary works with clients from a wide range of backgrounds, situations, and mental health goals. She is passionate about supporting LGBTQ folks, especially those who would like to explore their gender. Many clients work with Hilary to find a sense of meaning as they go through major life transitions, which could include marriage, divorce, becoming a parent, switching careers, or moving to a new place. She also supports clients who struggle with chronic illness, the negative impacts of trauma, or coping with infertility, abortion and miscarriage.
(484) 562-4840 View (484) 562-4840
Photo of Maddie Quirk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Berwick, PA
Maddie Quirk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19144
I specialize in treating childhood trauma, chronic pain, adult children of alcoholics (ACOAs), post-traumatic stress disorder, and codependency.
With over a decade of experience in the mental health field I have worked with clients from all walks of life. While everyone is unique in their struggles, I believe that most suffering can be alleviated by addressing root causes such as early childhood traumas, nervous system dysfunction, and family of origin wounding.
I specialize in treating childhood trauma, chronic pain, adult children of alcoholics (ACOAs), post-traumatic stress disorder, and codependency.
With over a decade of experience in the mental health field I have worked with clients from all walks of life. While everyone is unique in their struggles, I believe that most suffering can be alleviated by addressing root causes such as early childhood traumas, nervous system dysfunction, and family of origin wounding.
(267) 692-5304 View (267) 692-5304
Bonita E Fisher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18020  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
brain injury, stroke), I am passionate about the oft-ignored aspects of living which contribute to true wellness (rather than mere lack of illness).
TELE-HEALTH (synchronous communication) is now my primary mode of operation. I invite you to my website: bonitafisherpsyd.com, for more information on my practice. Additionally, I bring to the table my training and experience in the field of neuropsychology, which considers the impact of neurological systems (brain, spine) and general health impact (physical/endocrine/immune function) on psychological issues.
brain injury, stroke), I am passionate about the oft-ignored aspects of living which contribute to true wellness (rather than mere lack of illness).
TELE-HEALTH (synchronous communication) is now my primary mode of operation. I invite you to my website: bonitafisherpsyd.com, for more information on my practice. Additionally, I bring to the table my training and experience in the field of neuropsychology, which considers the impact of neurological systems (brain, spine) and general health impact (physical/endocrine/immune function) on psychological issues.
(484) 309-8450 View (484) 309-8450

See more therapy options for Berwick

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.