Photo of Lori Nelsen Luneburg, Psychologist in Downingtown, PA
Lori Nelsen Luneburg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
Do you feel like you are not enough? Have you lost your identity? Do you feel crazy in your current relationship or with your family? Emotional/Psychological/Narcissistic and other types of abuse can take a huge toll on an individual's self esteem and ability to cope. I am a caring Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience with Narcissistic/Abusive/Toxic Relationships and Trauma. I also specialize in Women Issues, Mood Disorders/Anxiety as well as Eating Disorders. My goal in therapy is to help you understand what "healthy" looks like and empower you to set boundaries and create the life that you desire.
Do you feel like you are not enough? Have you lost your identity? Do you feel crazy in your current relationship or with your family? Emotional/Psychological/Narcissistic and other types of abuse can take a huge toll on an individual's self esteem and ability to cope. I am a caring Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience with Narcissistic/Abusive/Toxic Relationships and Trauma. I also specialize in Women Issues, Mood Disorders/Anxiety as well as Eating Disorders. My goal in therapy is to help you understand what "healthy" looks like and empower you to set boundaries and create the life that you desire.
(610) 490-8635 View (610) 490-8635

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa Roberts, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downingtown, PA
Melissa Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frazer, PA 19355  (Online Only)
I have experience and enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families. I offer support for adults, children, and adolescents and work to create a genuine, trusting relationship where clients feel safe, and comfortable to be themselves. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, relationship conflict, parenting, self-esteem, and overall everyday stressors. I have extensive training and experience working with high conflict families as well as children and adolescents with severe behavioral issues. I also enjoy working with couples to assist with barriers in communication, connectedness, and intimacy.
I have experience and enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families. I offer support for adults, children, and adolescents and work to create a genuine, trusting relationship where clients feel safe, and comfortable to be themselves. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, relationship conflict, parenting, self-esteem, and overall everyday stressors. I have extensive training and experience working with high conflict families as well as children and adolescents with severe behavioral issues. I also enjoy working with couples to assist with barriers in communication, connectedness, and intimacy.
(215) 902-9138 View (215) 902-9138
Photo of Zora Wesley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downingtown, PA
Zora Wesley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380
Do you struggle with self-esteem issues and want to be more confident? Are you dealing with a major depressive disorder and have poor sleep & hygiene? Do you want a better life so you can keep your job and have a thriving life? I can help you identify where negative thoughts about yourself and your identity stem from. We will work on identifying negative thoughts and stress triggers. We will review what interventions have worked and have not worked for your mental health. I provide psychoeducation & may give some mini exercises, such as using positive affirmations, coming up with a nighttime routine, & relaxation techniques.
Do you struggle with self-esteem issues and want to be more confident? Are you dealing with a major depressive disorder and have poor sleep & hygiene? Do you want a better life so you can keep your job and have a thriving life? I can help you identify where negative thoughts about yourself and your identity stem from. We will work on identifying negative thoughts and stress triggers. We will review what interventions have worked and have not worked for your mental health. I provide psychoeducation & may give some mini exercises, such as using positive affirmations, coming up with a nighttime routine, & relaxation techniques.
(484) 613-3238 View (484) 613-3238
Photo of Rosemarie Collins Phd in Downingtown, PA
Rosemarie Collins Phd
PhD, APRN
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
Transform your life. Stop the struggle. Manage your stress, grief, anxiety, depression, loneliness and fear. Discover love, hope, peace, and inner strengths and resources to achieve the life you desire and deserve.
Transform your life. Stop the struggle. Manage your stress, grief, anxiety, depression, loneliness and fear. Discover love, hope, peace, and inner strengths and resources to achieve the life you desire and deserve.
(484) 416-8214 View (484) 416-8214

Online Therapists

Photo of Breesha Comish, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downingtown, 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 Tiffany Griffiths, Psy.D. & Associates, Inc., Psychologist in Downingtown, PA
Tiffany Griffiths, Psy.D. & Associates, Inc.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Dunmore, PA 18512
Our specialties and interests include: Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), trauma resolution, pain management, testing and assessment, interpersonal issues, GLBTQ issues, women's issues, sexual issues, substance abuse and recovery, marital and family issues, childhood disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personal growth.
I have worked to create an integrated, evidence-based, and holistic group practice where my vision of the ideal environment for growth can unfold. The associates in the practice have diverse backgrounds, interests, and training. No matter what problem or difficulty with which you present, someone in our group can assist you. We have cultivated an environment of peace, warmth, and acceptance to assure you will be respected, unconditionally.
Our specialties and interests include: Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), trauma resolution, pain management, testing and assessment, interpersonal issues, GLBTQ issues, women's issues, sexual issues, substance abuse and recovery, marital and family issues, childhood disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personal growth.
I have worked to create an integrated, evidence-based, and holistic group practice where my vision of the ideal environment for growth can unfold. The associates in the practice have diverse backgrounds, interests, and training. No matter what problem or difficulty with which you present, someone in our group can assist you. We have cultivated an environment of peace, warmth, and acceptance to assure you will be respected, unconditionally.
(570) 560-6579 View (570) 560-6579
Photo of Katharine L. Bertolet Psyd, Psychologist in Downingtown, PA
Katharine L. Bertolet Psyd
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
The psychotherapy I do is depth-oriented, offered in a safe and peaceful setting, where we can build your sense of inner peace. We will uncover your family legacy, as well as the maladaptive patterns you are living that underlie your suffering. Within that context, we will practice awareness of the present moment and unhook you from the influences of the past. We can work to improve your relationships, clarify your life goals and help you find a sense of ease and confidence in yourself. If you are depressed and/or anxious, we will find the ways to release you from emotional pain and move toward personal fulfillment.
The psychotherapy I do is depth-oriented, offered in a safe and peaceful setting, where we can build your sense of inner peace. We will uncover your family legacy, as well as the maladaptive patterns you are living that underlie your suffering. Within that context, we will practice awareness of the present moment and unhook you from the influences of the past. We can work to improve your relationships, clarify your life goals and help you find a sense of ease and confidence in yourself. If you are depressed and/or anxious, we will find the ways to release you from emotional pain and move toward personal fulfillment.
(215) 987-5281 View (215) 987-5281
Photo of Valentina Isleib, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downingtown, PA
Valentina Isleib
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCIT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayne, PA 19087
What are you looking for in therapy? I aim to assist you answering this question in a calm and encouraging environment where your concerns and hopes are heard and valued and where we can work together for you to achieve this purpose. I will ask you guiding questions to encourage deeper curiosity and care for yourself, and together we will explore answers that will help you create goals to support the change you need. I work with individuals, couples or families facing emotional pain, anxiety, depression, anger, couples issues, addiction, etc. and I assist their making discoveries that can help them create change.
What are you looking for in therapy? I aim to assist you answering this question in a calm and encouraging environment where your concerns and hopes are heard and valued and where we can work together for you to achieve this purpose. I will ask you guiding questions to encourage deeper curiosity and care for yourself, and together we will explore answers that will help you create goals to support the change you need. I work with individuals, couples or families facing emotional pain, anxiety, depression, anger, couples issues, addiction, etc. and I assist their making discoveries that can help them create change.
(610) 550-8878 View (610) 550-8878
Photo of Marifel Estrada-Currie, Psychologist in Downingtown, PA
Marifel Estrada-Currie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18106
e depression and anxiety), OCD, eating disorders, managing adjustments to disabilities and ongoing medical diagnoses/chronic pain through the use of effective psychotherapeutic interventions.
As individuals we are continually faced with life events that at times can be challenging, stressful and overwhelming and can impact our emotional and physical well being and relationships. It is at these times that we strive to find emotional and mental relief, balance and connection. As a licensed psychologist, I strive to help clients find positive coping skills to help them through events negatively impacting their present lives. I will strive to provide an empathetic therapeutic environment in a collaborative dialogue between me, the clinician, and you, the client to find emotional relief, calm, and interpersonal growth.
e depression and anxiety), OCD, eating disorders, managing adjustments to disabilities and ongoing medical diagnoses/chronic pain through the use of effective psychotherapeutic interventions.
As individuals we are continually faced with life events that at times can be challenging, stressful and overwhelming and can impact our emotional and physical well being and relationships. It is at these times that we strive to find emotional and mental relief, balance and connection. As a licensed psychologist, I strive to help clients find positive coping skills to help them through events negatively impacting their present lives. I will strive to provide an empathetic therapeutic environment in a collaborative dialogue between me, the clinician, and you, the client to find emotional relief, calm, and interpersonal growth.
(484) 282-1107 View (484) 282-1107
Photo of Jaclyn Borgia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Downingtown, PA
Jaclyn Borgia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bensalem, PA 19020  (Online Only)
I believe that in life, we can learn to laugh and smile while also living amongst our pain and anguish.
Are you struggling with imposter syndrome? Even though people compliment your work, personality, achievements or looks, do you have trouble fully believing them? It can be hard to love yourself completely if you were raised in a household that criticized you or withheld affection unless you performed. Whether you’re mourning the loss of a loved one who’s passed, or simply grieving the family you never had but wish you did—big emotions can be hard to navigate. You might be so sad sometimes, it feels like your grief will never end. Or you might be so anxious, it’s difficult for you to advocate for yourself and make sound decisions.
I believe that in life, we can learn to laugh and smile while also living amongst our pain and anguish.
Are you struggling with imposter syndrome? Even though people compliment your work, personality, achievements or looks, do you have trouble fully believing them? It can be hard to love yourself completely if you were raised in a household that criticized you or withheld affection unless you performed. Whether you’re mourning the loss of a loved one who’s passed, or simply grieving the family you never had but wish you did—big emotions can be hard to navigate. You might be so sad sometimes, it feels like your grief will never end. Or you might be so anxious, it’s difficult for you to advocate for yourself and make sound decisions.
(267) 848-9812 View (267) 848-9812
Photo of Cheryl N Foxworth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downingtown, PA
Cheryl N Foxworth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Prolonged exposure to/with pain can negatively impact how we feel about ourselves and others.
Hello my name is Cheryl Foxworth. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and AAMFT Approved Supervisor in Pennsylvania. For over 20-years I have worked with families in distress. I believe that most often the negative experiences we have in childhood corrupts our true sense of being. These early childhood issues often results in a disconnect with our true self. How tragic this can be but there is hope. I would love to think that "What does not kill us will only make us stronger. " This is a quote from philosopher Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche that has become my personal mantra. We must learn how to live beyond our hurt....
Prolonged exposure to/with pain can negatively impact how we feel about ourselves and others.
Hello my name is Cheryl Foxworth. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and AAMFT Approved Supervisor in Pennsylvania. For over 20-years I have worked with families in distress. I believe that most often the negative experiences we have in childhood corrupts our true sense of being. These early childhood issues often results in a disconnect with our true self. How tragic this can be but there is hope. I would love to think that "What does not kill us will only make us stronger. " This is a quote from philosopher Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche that has become my personal mantra. We must learn how to live beyond our hurt....
(267) 627-3026 View (267) 627-3026
Photo of Jordon Campbell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Downingtown, PA
Jordon Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19132  (Online Only)
I have experience in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, racial identity, relationship issues, life transitions, family planning, crisis management, sex therapy, teens/adolescents, chronic illness, intimacy.
My passion is to work with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds that are having a difficult time communicating their feelings and needs. I work closely with my clients to help them discover their innate coping skills while introducing a variety of others.Those that struggle in their relationships; whether it be with work, friends or a loved one, will gain support in creating and setting appropriate boundaries. I provide a space to work through trauma (sexual, racial, familial and work). I also provide clinical supervision for therapists seeking to expand and grow their mental health career
I have experience in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, racial identity, relationship issues, life transitions, family planning, crisis management, sex therapy, teens/adolescents, chronic illness, intimacy.
My passion is to work with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds that are having a difficult time communicating their feelings and needs. I work closely with my clients to help them discover their innate coping skills while introducing a variety of others.Those that struggle in their relationships; whether it be with work, friends or a loved one, will gain support in creating and setting appropriate boundaries. I provide a space to work through trauma (sexual, racial, familial and work). I also provide clinical supervision for therapists seeking to expand and grow their mental health career
(215) 486-8220 View (215) 486-8220
Photo of Valerie Palencar, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Downingtown, PA
Valerie Palencar, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittston, PA 18640
We all go through periods of pain and confusion.
Hello! I work with my clients using a Cognitive Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Solution Focused Approach. Solution Focused means we try to solve issues and problems as soon as possible. I am also a trauma specialist and have worked with military and domestic violence victims for many years. Trauma is relative to each individual and shouldn't be compared. And there are ways to heal and thrive! I also work with sexual addiction, childhood behavioral issues, depression and anxiety, chronic pain, career coaching, and all female issues. I also offer premarital and marital counseling.
We all go through periods of pain and confusion.
Hello! I work with my clients using a Cognitive Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Solution Focused Approach. Solution Focused means we try to solve issues and problems as soon as possible. I am also a trauma specialist and have worked with military and domestic violence victims for many years. Trauma is relative to each individual and shouldn't be compared. And there are ways to heal and thrive! I also work with sexual addiction, childhood behavioral issues, depression and anxiety, chronic pain, career coaching, and all female issues. I also offer premarital and marital counseling.
(917) 821-6645 View (917) 821-6645
Photo of Courtney Gable, Licensed Professional Counselor in Downingtown, PA
Courtney Gable
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Blue Bell, PA 19422
My inclusive work focuses on: Helping people to feel regulated and empowered, and to feel seen, safe, and valued for who they are in our process together; those struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety; chronic pain, grief and loss, phobias, racing thoughts, crossroads and upheaval; as well as Body Image, with a specific focus on Body Neutrality and Health At Every Size (HAES) – all with mindfulness, compassion, and acceptance.
My inclusive work focuses on: Helping people to feel regulated and empowered, and to feel seen, safe, and valued for who they are in our process together; those struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety; chronic pain, grief and loss, phobias, racing thoughts, crossroads and upheaval; as well as Body Image, with a specific focus on Body Neutrality and Health At Every Size (HAES) – all with mindfulness, compassion, and acceptance.
(215) 607-6969 View (215) 607-6969
Photo of Katherine M Schneider, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downingtown, PA
Katherine M Schneider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19129
I am experienced in working with clients with unique circumstances and needs, including those regarding sexuality, religion, gender identity, and chronic illness.
Everyone has a story and it is my privilege to be invited into yours. My unique blend of warmth and tenacity set me apart as a therapist and allow me to work with clients towards meaningful change. I value the relationships I form with clients and my goal is to make everyone I work with feel safe, respected and accepted for who they are. My practice is shaped by a combination of formal education and hands-on experience, including training in psychoanalysis, couples counseling, ExRP, play therapy and family therapy.
I am experienced in working with clients with unique circumstances and needs, including those regarding sexuality, religion, gender identity, and chronic illness.
Everyone has a story and it is my privilege to be invited into yours. My unique blend of warmth and tenacity set me apart as a therapist and allow me to work with clients towards meaningful change. I value the relationships I form with clients and my goal is to make everyone I work with feel safe, respected and accepted for who they are. My practice is shaped by a combination of formal education and hands-on experience, including training in psychoanalysis, couples counseling, ExRP, play therapy and family therapy.
(215) 608-3494 View (215) 608-3494
Photo of Hillary Bossert-Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downingtown, PA
Hillary Bossert-Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salunga, PA 17538
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 Sarah Lobb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downingtown, PA
Sarah Lobb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
What brings you to seek therapy is personal, important, and deserving of attention. I offer a non-judgmental and safe space to learn, grow, and share. I support adults as they confront transformation and change, such as relationship issues, grief and loss, and adjustment to illness. I have extensive experience helping people cultivate and maintain recovery from using substances.
What brings you to seek therapy is personal, important, and deserving of attention. I offer a non-judgmental and safe space to learn, grow, and share. I support adults as they confront transformation and change, such as relationship issues, grief and loss, and adjustment to illness. I have extensive experience helping people cultivate and maintain recovery from using substances.
(215) 770-9516 View (215) 770-9516
Photo of Everlasting Wellness LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downingtown, PA
Everlasting Wellness LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Royersford, PA 19468
At Everlasting Wellness LLC, we understand that finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust is extremely important. We offer a safe and trusting space and work at your comfort level. Everlasting Wellness specializes in Pregnancy, Postpartum and Maternal Issues, Trauma, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, D&A, Acute and Chronic Medical Diagnosis and Women's Issues as well as Young/Older Adults and College Students. We come with an array of experiences, professionally and personally. We offer groups, individual, couples, and family counseling. We offer in-person sessions in our Sinking Spring and/or Royersford location.
At Everlasting Wellness LLC, we understand that finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust is extremely important. We offer a safe and trusting space and work at your comfort level. Everlasting Wellness specializes in Pregnancy, Postpartum and Maternal Issues, Trauma, Sex Therapy, Sexuality, D&A, Acute and Chronic Medical Diagnosis and Women's Issues as well as Young/Older Adults and College Students. We come with an array of experiences, professionally and personally. We offer groups, individual, couples, and family counseling. We offer in-person sessions in our Sinking Spring and/or Royersford location.
(484) 706-9465 View (484) 706-9465
Photo of Rising Sun Therapy, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downingtown, PA
Rising Sun Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Harleysville, PA 19438
Women 18 years and older! Are you finding it hard to find balance with self identity, career, and family expectations? Are you planning your family or just had a baby and everything seems so hard, You are not alone! No one told you it would be this hard! It's difficult to know what to do when you are exhausted, depressed, and anxious. How do you know what is normal and where you need to ask for more help? I can help you find that balance, understand what comes next, and find your calm. We can take back control, step by step, so you can experience a peaceful journey back to yourself.
Women 18 years and older! Are you finding it hard to find balance with self identity, career, and family expectations? Are you planning your family or just had a baby and everything seems so hard, You are not alone! No one told you it would be this hard! It's difficult to know what to do when you are exhausted, depressed, and anxious. How do you know what is normal and where you need to ask for more help? I can help you find that balance, understand what comes next, and find your calm. We can take back control, step by step, so you can experience a peaceful journey back to yourself.
(484) 559-8056 View (484) 559-8056
Photo of Dr. Laurane McGlynn, Psychologist in Downingtown, PA
Dr. Laurane McGlynn
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Easton, PA 18045
My practice offers treatment that is individually created for your specific needs and issues. I am devoted to creating a safe and caring environment to support your emotional, physical, spiritual and psychological well-being. I focus on guiding individuals toward health and healing using modern clinical practice, holistic therapeutic approaches, mindfulness and mind/body techniques. Our model is based on a functional medicine approach which seeks to identify and address the root causes of psychological conditions and medical illnesses using a strength-based approach that treats the whole person, not a collection of symptoms.
My practice offers treatment that is individually created for your specific needs and issues. I am devoted to creating a safe and caring environment to support your emotional, physical, spiritual and psychological well-being. I focus on guiding individuals toward health and healing using modern clinical practice, holistic therapeutic approaches, mindfulness and mind/body techniques. Our model is based on a functional medicine approach which seeks to identify and address the root causes of psychological conditions and medical illnesses using a strength-based approach that treats the whole person, not a collection of symptoms.
(484) 276-5343 View (484) 276-5343


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.