Therapists in Conestoga, PA

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Photo of Rebecca Zumba, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Conestoga, PA
Rebecca Zumba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
As many of my clients struggle with chronic pain, I help to identify and address the many physical and emotional layers that can be involved in learning to manage these issues.
At some point in life, many of us struggle with a loss of joy and purpose in response to challenges such as pain, illness, trauma, life transitions, and other major stressors. I can help you stop fighting yourself and create a more peaceful and meaningful life. I see therapy as a dialogue, with us exploring together what works and is important for you. As a skills-based, solution-focused therapist, my clients often find that our work helps them better understand themselves and their patterns, and develop new, more effective ways of coping with challenges.
As many of my clients struggle with chronic pain, I help to identify and address the many physical and emotional layers that can be involved in learning to manage these issues.
At some point in life, many of us struggle with a loss of joy and purpose in response to challenges such as pain, illness, trauma, life transitions, and other major stressors. I can help you stop fighting yourself and create a more peaceful and meaningful life. I see therapy as a dialogue, with us exploring together what works and is important for you. As a skills-based, solution-focused therapist, my clients often find that our work helps them better understand themselves and their patterns, and develop new, more effective ways of coping with challenges.
(717) 455-3379 View (717) 455-3379
Photo of Grace Be Mental Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Conestoga, PA
Grace Be Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW, MSW, MA, BSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
At Grace Be Mental Health, we believe in the importance of holistic health! We believe in the mind, body, soul connection. We strive to meet each client where they are, taking a person-centered approach. We intend for therapy to be a safe space! We view therapy as a tool, and an experience that can assist in the life-long process of learning and re-learning ourselves. We are honored to be a part of the work of self-development with each client we get to know! Specialties include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, body image, ADD/ADHD, OCD, anger management, chronic pain, chronic illness, and adjustment disorders.
At Grace Be Mental Health, we believe in the importance of holistic health! We believe in the mind, body, soul connection. We strive to meet each client where they are, taking a person-centered approach. We intend for therapy to be a safe space! We view therapy as a tool, and an experience that can assist in the life-long process of learning and re-learning ourselves. We are honored to be a part of the work of self-development with each client we get to know! Specialties include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, body image, ADD/ADHD, OCD, anger management, chronic pain, chronic illness, and adjustment disorders.
(223) 218-2588 View (223) 218-2588
Photo of Michelle Wegman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conestoga, PA
Michelle Wegman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
Life may not be turning out as you thought it would. Disappointments, failed expectations, trauma, tragedy or loss may make up part of your story that you have had a hard time accepting and moving on from. Or maybe you have dealt with a pervasive challenge like anxiety or depression that seems to be deeply rooted, and is disrupting your life. I believe that you can learn how to move through these challenges by processing the pain, gaining deeper insight about yourself and learning strategies along the way. This will improve how you view yourself, and others and help you to make the changes you want to keep moving forward.
Life may not be turning out as you thought it would. Disappointments, failed expectations, trauma, tragedy or loss may make up part of your story that you have had a hard time accepting and moving on from. Or maybe you have dealt with a pervasive challenge like anxiety or depression that seems to be deeply rooted, and is disrupting your life. I believe that you can learn how to move through these challenges by processing the pain, gaining deeper insight about yourself and learning strategies along the way. This will improve how you view yourself, and others and help you to make the changes you want to keep moving forward.
(717) 912-8274 View (717) 912-8274
Photo of Hillary Bossert-Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Conestoga, PA
Hillary Bossert-Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17602
I also work with individuals with chronic pain and approach this from a holistic perspective.
In my practice, I find meeting my clients where they are and working together from their goals to be most effective. I would work with my you from a strengths-based approach, helping you to focus your goals on improving your quality of life and working on the different areas of life which either prevent you from achieving your desires or may be a strength to work from! I am open to working with clients from all ages and backgrounds!
I also work with individuals with chronic pain and approach this from a holistic perspective.
In my practice, I find meeting my clients where they are and working together from their goals to be most effective. I would work with my you from a strengths-based approach, helping you to focus your goals on improving your quality of life and working on the different areas of life which either prevent you from achieving your desires or may be a strength to work from! I am open to working with clients from all ages and backgrounds!
(717) 276-4262 View (717) 276-4262
Photo of Katie Mount, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conestoga, PA
Katie Mount
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
Through skillfully and respectfully tending to the layers of pain that have accumulated throughout your life, I can help clear the way for you to access the well of strength that is, and has always been, within you.
Feeling overwhelmed or stuck? Are you struggling with a life transition? Do you experience difficulties in relationships? Maybe you feel stuck in emotional or behavioral patterns that seem to be holding you back. I provide a welcoming, accepting space and offer skills to help you achieve more clarity, confidence and connection in your life. My life and work have taught me that we all suffer and struggle. But they've also shown me that we all possess within us a well of wisdom, resilience, and compassion. The suffering we endure can make it very difficult to access this inherent strength. We can easily become lost, disconnected.
Through skillfully and respectfully tending to the layers of pain that have accumulated throughout your life, I can help clear the way for you to access the well of strength that is, and has always been, within you.
Feeling overwhelmed or stuck? Are you struggling with a life transition? Do you experience difficulties in relationships? Maybe you feel stuck in emotional or behavioral patterns that seem to be holding you back. I provide a welcoming, accepting space and offer skills to help you achieve more clarity, confidence and connection in your life. My life and work have taught me that we all suffer and struggle. But they've also shown me that we all possess within us a well of wisdom, resilience, and compassion. The suffering we endure can make it very difficult to access this inherent strength. We can easily become lost, disconnected.
(717) 455-3078 View (717) 455-3078
Photo of Balanced Life Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conestoga, PA
Balanced Life Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LMT, NCHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
We are an evidence-based practice, working from theoretical approaches of EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Person Centered, Integrated Pain Management, Internal Family Systems and Attachment-focused Therapy.
It is our belief that we all have the capacity to change, heal and recover from all the things that life can throw at us. At Balanced Life Counseling, we strive to create a warm, welcoming, and trusting environment which allows us to work together towards your goals. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the pressures and stress of life? Has communication been difficult lately? Are you looking for support to navigate challenging situations or circumstances? Sometimes, it's about something more than change. It's about growth and we are passionate about joining with our clients in a safe and collaborative space to help empower their growth.
We are an evidence-based practice, working from theoretical approaches of EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Person Centered, Integrated Pain Management, Internal Family Systems and Attachment-focused Therapy.
It is our belief that we all have the capacity to change, heal and recover from all the things that life can throw at us. At Balanced Life Counseling, we strive to create a warm, welcoming, and trusting environment which allows us to work together towards your goals. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the pressures and stress of life? Has communication been difficult lately? Are you looking for support to navigate challenging situations or circumstances? Sometimes, it's about something more than change. It's about growth and we are passionate about joining with our clients in a safe and collaborative space to help empower their growth.
(717) 539-4178 View (717) 539-4178
Photo of Robyn Klein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Conestoga, PA
Robyn Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, ACM, SSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
Sometimes you need someone to help you do it on your own. Reading this bio means you're still looking for the right fit, someone you click with whom conversation flows easily. If that's not a crucial part of a therapeutic relationship, I don't know what is. My breadth of experience affords me special insight into fertility, perinatal. postpartum struggles, chronic illness, and military life.
Sometimes you need someone to help you do it on your own. Reading this bio means you're still looking for the right fit, someone you click with whom conversation flows easily. If that's not a crucial part of a therapeutic relationship, I don't know what is. My breadth of experience affords me special insight into fertility, perinatal. postpartum struggles, chronic illness, and military life.
(802) 529-4014 View (802) 529-4014
Photo of Rebekah Coval, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conestoga, PA
Rebekah Coval
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
Hi there! I am a licensed individual and couples therapist, certified yoga instructor, and birth doula. I am trained in both movement therapy and EMDR. My areas of expertise include anxiety, relationships and couples counseling, grief, trauma, chronic illness/pain, and spirituality. I offer couples counseling for clients wanting to improve their relationship as well as those discerning separation. I have a special interest in clients who are in a season of transition or decision-making, whether related to college, parenthood, new relationship/career, or navigating the last stage of life.
Hi there! I am a licensed individual and couples therapist, certified yoga instructor, and birth doula. I am trained in both movement therapy and EMDR. My areas of expertise include anxiety, relationships and couples counseling, grief, trauma, chronic illness/pain, and spirituality. I offer couples counseling for clients wanting to improve their relationship as well as those discerning separation. I have a special interest in clients who are in a season of transition or decision-making, whether related to college, parenthood, new relationship/career, or navigating the last stage of life.
(223) 215-5653 View (223) 215-5653
Photo of Heart for Change Counseling Services, Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Conestoga, PA
Heart for Change Counseling Services, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602
With different therapists having different specialties, our focus ranges on a wide variety of topics including addiction issues, adoption and foster care trauma, anxiety, chronic pain and illness, codependency, depression,, faith-based issues, grief and loss, life stress, abuse, trauma, and work-related issues.
At Heart for Change Counseling Services, we value finding darkness in the world and bringing light. We treat all people with dignity and respect, maintain an environment free from judgement, and provide a team-approach to ensure those who walk through our doors feel valued, supported, and heard. We believe in making quality services affordable regardless of insurance.
With different therapists having different specialties, our focus ranges on a wide variety of topics including addiction issues, adoption and foster care trauma, anxiety, chronic pain and illness, codependency, depression,, faith-based issues, grief and loss, life stress, abuse, trauma, and work-related issues.
At Heart for Change Counseling Services, we value finding darkness in the world and bringing light. We treat all people with dignity and respect, maintain an environment free from judgement, and provide a team-approach to ensure those who walk through our doors feel valued, supported, and heard. We believe in making quality services affordable regardless of insurance.
(717) 546-9257 View (717) 546-9257
Photo of Michael Zamrin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Conestoga, PA
Michael Zamrin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
As a seasoned professional I have experience working with all age groups. I specialize in the treatment of children and adolescents and their families. I also have advanced training in and experience with providing Marriage and Family therapy. I offer group therapy as the need arises within a specific population. I offer daytime and evening appointments and I am flexible with scheduling to meet your individual needs. I am certified in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (an evidenced based treatment for chronic pain). I am licensed to work with clients in Florida and Pennsylvania.
As a seasoned professional I have experience working with all age groups. I specialize in the treatment of children and adolescents and their families. I also have advanced training in and experience with providing Marriage and Family therapy. I offer group therapy as the need arises within a specific population. I offer daytime and evening appointments and I am flexible with scheduling to meet your individual needs. I am certified in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (an evidenced based treatment for chronic pain). I am licensed to work with clients in Florida and Pennsylvania.
(717) 473-4645 View (717) 473-4645
Photo of Breesha Comish, Marriage & Family Therapist in Conestoga, 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 Amy Titzer Professional Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conestoga, PA
Amy Titzer Professional Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders as well as life adjustment issues. I am also certified in clinical hypnosis to treat weight loss, smoking, sleep, confidence, and pain management. I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist in the mental health field. Although I have much experience and knowledge as a therapist, I believe people won't care how much you know until they know how much you care. We all need to be seen, heard, and understood, and so much healing happens then. I believe in the mind/body/spirit connection and I individualize my approach with each unique person.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders as well as life adjustment issues. I am also certified in clinical hypnosis to treat weight loss, smoking, sleep, confidence, and pain management. I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist in the mental health field. Although I have much experience and knowledge as a therapist, I believe people won't care how much you know until they know how much you care. We all need to be seen, heard, and understood, and so much healing happens then. I believe in the mind/body/spirit connection and I individualize my approach with each unique person.
(717) 415-5287 View (717) 415-5287
Photo of Tara Elliot, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conestoga, PA
Tara Elliot
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
I strive to create a safe, supportive environment to explore many of life's difficulties including complex trauma, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship/attachment issues, self-esteem, chronic illness, phobias, loss & grief, mood disorders, & spiritual issues. Using an integrated approach, I incorporate different styles and techniques tailored to each individual's needs supporting the whole person with a mind-body-spirit approach. Working together, we increase self-awareness through the use of breathwork, meditation, and mindfulness as we facilitate the process of psychological & emotional healing.
I strive to create a safe, supportive environment to explore many of life's difficulties including complex trauma, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship/attachment issues, self-esteem, chronic illness, phobias, loss & grief, mood disorders, & spiritual issues. Using an integrated approach, I incorporate different styles and techniques tailored to each individual's needs supporting the whole person with a mind-body-spirit approach. Working together, we increase self-awareness through the use of breathwork, meditation, and mindfulness as we facilitate the process of psychological & emotional healing.
(610) 756-0896 View (610) 756-0896
Photo of Addie Mooney, Pre-Licensed Professional in Conestoga, PA
Addie Mooney
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, APC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
I also provide trauma-informed sex therapy that can assist with a variety of issues including vaginismus, pain during sex, and general anxiety or discomfort around sex and one’s sexual and gender identities.
Welcome! As a therapist my goal is to create a non-judgmental and supportive space where it feels safe to explore and grow. I have extensive experience supporting survivors of sexual assault and relational trauma (domestic violence, childhood abuse) as well as a strong understanding of narcissistic abuse and codependency. I also work with individuals that may be experiencing anxiety, depression, and OCD as well as life stress from difficult loss or transitions. My therapeutic approach integrates a psychodynamic and interpersonal framework along with some elements of Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CF-CBT).
I also provide trauma-informed sex therapy that can assist with a variety of issues including vaginismus, pain during sex, and general anxiety or discomfort around sex and one’s sexual and gender identities.
Welcome! As a therapist my goal is to create a non-judgmental and supportive space where it feels safe to explore and grow. I have extensive experience supporting survivors of sexual assault and relational trauma (domestic violence, childhood abuse) as well as a strong understanding of narcissistic abuse and codependency. I also work with individuals that may be experiencing anxiety, depression, and OCD as well as life stress from difficult loss or transitions. My therapeutic approach integrates a psychodynamic and interpersonal framework along with some elements of Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CF-CBT).
(610) 686-8690 View (610) 686-8690
Photo of Aryn Smeltzer, Pre-Licensed Professional in Conestoga, PA
Aryn Smeltzer
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
Sometimes life is hard and just plain messy, and we just need someone who can listen, guide, challenge and support us in our life journey. It is my passion to walk this journey with you as you navigate the stressors, traumas and unexpected turns that life can throw at you. Your experiences are unique to you. I desire our therapeutic relationship to be collaborative as we work together to create interventions that spark growth and ultimately, healing.
Sometimes life is hard and just plain messy, and we just need someone who can listen, guide, challenge and support us in our life journey. It is my passion to walk this journey with you as you navigate the stressors, traumas and unexpected turns that life can throw at you. Your experiences are unique to you. I desire our therapeutic relationship to be collaborative as we work together to create interventions that spark growth and ultimately, healing.
(717) 973-8221 View (717) 973-8221
Photo of Move Forward Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conestoga, PA
Move Forward Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LSW, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
Our locations in Lancaster, Hershey, Lehigh Valley (Emmaus), Lancaster Downtown, Lebanon, York, and Pittsburgh, offer in-person mental health therapy to people aged six+. Online therapy is available across PA. Seek our care if you are struggling with relationship issues, feeling anxiety or depression, identity/culture, trauma, or are unsure how to navigate grief, maternal struggles, LGBT+, or life transitions. Our clients often state they "feel stuck" as the reason they are starting therapy. Participating in therapy can help identify solutions and a way to move forward.
Our locations in Lancaster, Hershey, Lehigh Valley (Emmaus), Lancaster Downtown, Lebanon, York, and Pittsburgh, offer in-person mental health therapy to people aged six+. Online therapy is available across PA. Seek our care if you are struggling with relationship issues, feeling anxiety or depression, identity/culture, trauma, or are unsure how to navigate grief, maternal struggles, LGBT+, or life transitions. Our clients often state they "feel stuck" as the reason they are starting therapy. Participating in therapy can help identify solutions and a way to move forward.
(717) 696-0029 x1 View (717) 696-0029 x1
Photo of Yvonne Foster, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conestoga, PA
Yvonne Foster
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience providing mental health therapy to individual's, couples, and families. I believe that you should not be in therapy for years, but should be quickly making the changes in your life to get you out of therapy. The goal of therapy is to help you to determine what those changes are and then to help you take the necessary steps to make those changes.
I have over 20 years of experience providing mental health therapy to individual's, couples, and families. I believe that you should not be in therapy for years, but should be quickly making the changes in your life to get you out of therapy. The goal of therapy is to help you to determine what those changes are and then to help you take the necessary steps to make those changes.
(717) 524-1140 View (717) 524-1140
Photo of Karen Mummau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Conestoga, PA
Karen Mummau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
Does it feel like chaos is all around you? Are you struggling to keep it all together? Have you tried solving the problems in your life and it's just not working? Do you feel lost and overwhelmed and not sure where to turn? Have you tried everything you can think of and still feel stuck? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious and uncertain about life and how to navigate all it requires. Not addressing your feelings can lead to health difficulties, increased fatigue, and less life enjoyment. I believe there is hope.
Does it feel like chaos is all around you? Are you struggling to keep it all together? Have you tried solving the problems in your life and it's just not working? Do you feel lost and overwhelmed and not sure where to turn? Have you tried everything you can think of and still feel stuck? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious and uncertain about life and how to navigate all it requires. Not addressing your feelings can lead to health difficulties, increased fatigue, and less life enjoyment. I believe there is hope.
(717) 271-7866 View (717) 271-7866
Photo of Meghan Onderdonk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conestoga, PA
Meghan Onderdonk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MT-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
Maybe you’ve noticed that making a change in your life is a difficult. Many people struggle to find their footing in the world at one point or another – this can be a large source of anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and stress. I want you to feel at ease to be your most authentic self, and to feel genuinely safe and comfortable as we explore your concerns together. Above all else, I prioritize warmth, comfort, and compassion at the core of the work we do. I promise to tell you honestly and compassionately what you need to hear, even when it might be difficult to face right now.
Maybe you’ve noticed that making a change in your life is a difficult. Many people struggle to find their footing in the world at one point or another – this can be a large source of anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and stress. I want you to feel at ease to be your most authentic self, and to feel genuinely safe and comfortable as we explore your concerns together. Above all else, I prioritize warmth, comfort, and compassion at the core of the work we do. I promise to tell you honestly and compassionately what you need to hear, even when it might be difficult to face right now.
(610) 385-3155 View (610) 385-3155
Photo of Maddie Canel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Conestoga, PA
Maddie Canel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as clients with BPD, Bipolar 1 & 2, PTSD, and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as clients with BPD, Bipolar 1 & 2, PTSD, and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
(412) 307-9823 View (412) 307-9823
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.