There are no results for therapists in Midland

Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Pennsylvania below.

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kim Haas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midland, PA
Kim Haas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaver, PA 15009
Hi, I'm Kim and welcome to Cornerstone Wellness! I believe each of us at different times in our lives face situations which cause us to re-assess/re-evaluate our lives, e.g. what is important to us, what we are doing, what is working for us in our lives and perhaps what is not. I believe counseling can be a place in which a person can learn about themselves and make positive changes in themselves and their lives which can then lead to increased life satisfaction.
Hi, I'm Kim and welcome to Cornerstone Wellness! I believe each of us at different times in our lives face situations which cause us to re-assess/re-evaluate our lives, e.g. what is important to us, what we are doing, what is working for us in our lives and perhaps what is not. I believe counseling can be a place in which a person can learn about themselves and make positive changes in themselves and their lives which can then lead to increased life satisfaction.
(724) 303-7065 View (724) 303-7065
Photo of Dunlap & Associates Counseling and Art Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Midland, PA
Dunlap & Associates Counseling and Art Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaver, PA 15009
NOW OFFERING ART THERAPY. Many people have had negative experiences with counseling, making them hesitant to seek help again. We are especially skilled at working with those who are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy. Clients have described us as “Therapists for people who don’t like therapy”. We try to understand people on an individual level & adapt our skills to meet their needs. Our goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, & nonjudgmental atmosphere. Therapy should not be simply "learning coping skills", to deal with negative feelings, it should involve working to root of the problem to facilitate long-lasting change.
NOW OFFERING ART THERAPY. Many people have had negative experiences with counseling, making them hesitant to seek help again. We are especially skilled at working with those who are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy. Clients have described us as “Therapists for people who don’t like therapy”. We try to understand people on an individual level & adapt our skills to meet their needs. Our goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, & nonjudgmental atmosphere. Therapy should not be simply "learning coping skills", to deal with negative feelings, it should involve working to root of the problem to facilitate long-lasting change.
(878) 313-2422 View (878) 313-2422
Photo of Jacquelyn M. Matotek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Midland, PA
Jacquelyn M. Matotek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaver Falls, PA 15010  (Online Only)
As a trauma, sex/intimacy, and relationship therapist, I bring a unique approach to the therapy process. Sex and intimacy can be challenging because of the history we bring with us into our relationships. Traumas from childhood, past relationships, trust issues, sexuality/gender struggles, anxiety, shame, stress can inhibit the development of deep intimate relationship with others. I have a passion for supporting my clients through healing and reconnection to their bodies, their own pleasure in order connect intimately in a healthy way with the people in their lives.
As a trauma, sex/intimacy, and relationship therapist, I bring a unique approach to the therapy process. Sex and intimacy can be challenging because of the history we bring with us into our relationships. Traumas from childhood, past relationships, trust issues, sexuality/gender struggles, anxiety, shame, stress can inhibit the development of deep intimate relationship with others. I have a passion for supporting my clients through healing and reconnection to their bodies, their own pleasure in order connect intimately in a healthy way with the people in their lives.
(724) 359-4020 View (724) 359-4020

Online Therapists

David E Levit
Psychologist, PSY
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I addition to providing psychotherapy for most mental health issues as well as stress management, I also have a Diplomate in pain management from the American Academy of Pain Management.
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh. I earned my doctorate at Nova University School of Professional Psychology, my Master's Degree at Duquesne University, and my Bachelor's Degree from Washington and Jefferson College. I completed an APA approved internship at the VA Medical Center in Salem Virginia. My almost thirty years experience is in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy, and have worked in private practice since 1985. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, anger management, ADD/ADHD/ODD, loss, behavioral management, and thought disorders.
I addition to providing psychotherapy for most mental health issues as well as stress management, I also have a Diplomate in pain management from the American Academy of Pain Management.
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh. I earned my doctorate at Nova University School of Professional Psychology, my Master's Degree at Duquesne University, and my Bachelor's Degree from Washington and Jefferson College. I completed an APA approved internship at the VA Medical Center in Salem Virginia. My almost thirty years experience is in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy, and have worked in private practice since 1985. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, anger management, ADD/ADHD/ODD, loss, behavioral management, and thought disorders.
(412) 906-9181 View (412) 906-9181
Photo of Monica L Walsh, Psychologist in Midland, PA
Monica L Walsh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist located in the North Hills of Pittsburgh who treats adults across the lifespan. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 25 years, working with individuals on a wide range of issues and concerns. I have particular experience working with difficulties related to anxiety, stress, and physical health (including panic attacks, generalized anxiety, OCD, coping with chronic pain and illness, coping with life transitions, sleep difficulties).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist located in the North Hills of Pittsburgh who treats adults across the lifespan. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 25 years, working with individuals on a wide range of issues and concerns. I have particular experience working with difficulties related to anxiety, stress, and physical health (including panic attacks, generalized anxiety, OCD, coping with chronic pain and illness, coping with life transitions, sleep difficulties).
(412) 802-9514 View (412) 802-9514
Photo of Joni Keating, Pre-Licensed Professional in Midland, PA
Joni Keating
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237  (Online Only)
I am experienced in helping LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent individuals navigate life transitions, chronic illness management, gender/sexual identity concerns, anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, disordered eating, body image and complex trauma. I'm flexible to work with you however you need, whether that's building coping strategies for daily stressors, processing emotions or traumatic memories, or figuring out who you are and what you want. I can work with clients brand new to therapy and those uncertain how therapy can be helpful to them.
I am experienced in helping LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent individuals navigate life transitions, chronic illness management, gender/sexual identity concerns, anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, disordered eating, body image and complex trauma. I'm flexible to work with you however you need, whether that's building coping strategies for daily stressors, processing emotions or traumatic memories, or figuring out who you are and what you want. I can work with clients brand new to therapy and those uncertain how therapy can be helpful to them.
(412) 547-8602 View (412) 547-8602
Photo of Carter Cunningham, Pre-Licensed Professional in Midland, PA
Carter Cunningham
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15216
While I am excited to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, I have a special interest in supporting those who experience chronic conditions such as pain, grief, cancer, psychosis, and trauma.
I am passionate about helping individuals on their path to self-discovery and leading a genuine and authentic life. Drawing upon my background in counseling and neuroscience, I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and existentialism into my approach. I aim to help individuals cultivate openness, awareness, and engagement with themselves, their loved ones, and the world around them. By incorporating meditation, relevant literature, art, and nature, I aim to create a holistic therapeutic experience. These elements enrich the exploration of subjective experiences, self-perception, and the profound aspects of existence.
While I am excited to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, I have a special interest in supporting those who experience chronic conditions such as pain, grief, cancer, psychosis, and trauma.
I am passionate about helping individuals on their path to self-discovery and leading a genuine and authentic life. Drawing upon my background in counseling and neuroscience, I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and existentialism into my approach. I aim to help individuals cultivate openness, awareness, and engagement with themselves, their loved ones, and the world around them. By incorporating meditation, relevant literature, art, and nature, I aim to create a holistic therapeutic experience. These elements enrich the exploration of subjective experiences, self-perception, and the profound aspects of existence.
(412) 960-1185 View (412) 960-1185
Photo of Ryan D. Henry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Midland, PA
Ryan D. Henry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Erie, PA 16506
I use these skills to help people address depression, anxiety, perseverative and irrational thoughts, forensic concerns, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and chronic pain.
You are here because you have something in your life that you want to change; I am here to help you make that change. Therapy is about developing the skills necessary to enact change and increase your quality of life.
I use these skills to help people address depression, anxiety, perseverative and irrational thoughts, forensic concerns, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and chronic pain.
You are here because you have something in your life that you want to change; I am here to help you make that change. Therapy is about developing the skills necessary to enact change and increase your quality of life.
(814) 200-0315 View (814) 200-0315
Photo of Nancy L. Ritsko, Licensed Professional Counselor in Midland, PA
Nancy L. Ritsko
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
I can be of help to you if you have any of the following issues: intrapersonal; relationships; communication; establishing and maintaining boundaries; emotional support; self-esteem; management of anger; living within your financial means; addictions; grief and loss; chronic pain; peace of mind. In 1976, I began my career in counseling as a school counselor and have a good track record with individuals of all ages. As a "seasoned" counselor (read "older"), I have helped individuals, couples, and families successfully navigate the issues that contribute to their pain and distress. You and I will work together as a team.
I can be of help to you if you have any of the following issues: intrapersonal; relationships; communication; establishing and maintaining boundaries; emotional support; self-esteem; management of anger; living within your financial means; addictions; grief and loss; chronic pain; peace of mind. In 1976, I began my career in counseling as a school counselor and have a good track record with individuals of all ages. As a "seasoned" counselor (read "older"), I have helped individuals, couples, and families successfully navigate the issues that contribute to their pain and distress. You and I will work together as a team.
(814) 258-4544 View (814) 258-4544
Photo of David Gresko, Licensed Professional Counselor in Midland, PA
David Gresko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
My goal in working with you is to instill a sense of hope and give you a vision for the future, even in the midst of the pain and difficulty we all experience in life.
I look at each client as a unique individual who requires tailor made and personal treatment. This means that each person I work with receives individualized treatment designed specifically for them and their unique circumstances and history. Currently, I am seeing adult and teenage clients (ages 14+) for individual therapy. My primary areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Obsessions and Compulsions, Guilt, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Life Coaching, Career Counseling, Vocational Discernment, and Christian Counseling.
My goal in working with you is to instill a sense of hope and give you a vision for the future, even in the midst of the pain and difficulty we all experience in life.
I look at each client as a unique individual who requires tailor made and personal treatment. This means that each person I work with receives individualized treatment designed specifically for them and their unique circumstances and history. Currently, I am seeing adult and teenage clients (ages 14+) for individual therapy. My primary areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Obsessions and Compulsions, Guilt, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Life Coaching, Career Counseling, Vocational Discernment, and Christian Counseling.
(412) 385-6997 View (412) 385-6997
Photo of Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Midland, PA
Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Our specialties include Hoarding Support and Treatment, Caregiver Support, Life Coaching, Stress Management, Managing Chronic Pain/Health Concerns, Addiction/Recovery, Family Issues, Children & Teens, Women's Issues, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Grief/Loss, Trauma, and General Health and Wellness.
Our practice is a small, down to earth setting. We strive to make our clients feel at home and connected with supportive, caring staff. We come from many walks of life and a wide range of experience. We will tailor our treatment methods to best suit your needs so that you can get out of our office and back into the life you were meant to lead! Our office is open 7 days a week with morning, afternoon and evening hours to best suit your needs.
Our specialties include Hoarding Support and Treatment, Caregiver Support, Life Coaching, Stress Management, Managing Chronic Pain/Health Concerns, Addiction/Recovery, Family Issues, Children & Teens, Women's Issues, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Grief/Loss, Trauma, and General Health and Wellness.
Our practice is a small, down to earth setting. We strive to make our clients feel at home and connected with supportive, caring staff. We come from many walks of life and a wide range of experience. We will tailor our treatment methods to best suit your needs so that you can get out of our office and back into the life you were meant to lead! Our office is open 7 days a week with morning, afternoon and evening hours to best suit your needs.
(412) 961-9683 View (412) 961-9683
Photo of Sheri Goldstrohm, Psychologist in Midland, PA
Sheri Goldstrohm
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Dr. Sheri Goldstrohm has over 25 years of experience providing psychological services in diverse settings and across the age spectrum. She has experience in health psychology; crisis management and Critical Incident Stress Management; community mental health; integrated care; death, dying and bereavement; and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). Dr. Goldstrohm's areas of clinical expertise include women's issues, behavioral pain management, integrated care with a focus on maximizing health and wellness for individuals with chronic health conditions, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and life transitions.
Dr. Sheri Goldstrohm has over 25 years of experience providing psychological services in diverse settings and across the age spectrum. She has experience in health psychology; crisis management and Critical Incident Stress Management; community mental health; integrated care; death, dying and bereavement; and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). Dr. Goldstrohm's areas of clinical expertise include women's issues, behavioral pain management, integrated care with a focus on maximizing health and wellness for individuals with chronic health conditions, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and life transitions.
(412) 212-0469 View (412) 212-0469
Photo of Momentum Couples and Family Therapy LLC., Marriage & Family Therapist in Midland, PA
Momentum Couples and Family Therapy LLC.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LCSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Uniontown, PA 15401
Momentum Couples and Family Therapy provides a wide range of mental health services including, but not limited to the following: conflicts or problems with a partner, difficulty adjusting to a new school, trying to cope with a divorce or separation, family conflict with children or need of parental support, struggling with decisions about marriage, physical, sexual, or psychological abuse; past or present, loneliness, anxiety, fear or thoughts of suicide, low self-esteem, assertiveness and decision making, depression, sexual orientation, lack of motivation, out of control thoughts/ behaviors, difficulty with attention/concentration, coping with medical illness, unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, etc.
Momentum Couples and Family Therapy provides a wide range of mental health services including, but not limited to the following: conflicts or problems with a partner, difficulty adjusting to a new school, trying to cope with a divorce or separation, family conflict with children or need of parental support, struggling with decisions about marriage, physical, sexual, or psychological abuse; past or present, loneliness, anxiety, fear or thoughts of suicide, low self-esteem, assertiveness and decision making, depression, sexual orientation, lack of motivation, out of control thoughts/ behaviors, difficulty with attention/concentration, coping with medical illness, unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, etc.
(724) 359-2037 View (724) 359-2037
Photo of New Directions Mental Health - Wexford, Psychologist in Midland, PA
New Directions Mental Health - Wexford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with challenges including: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from traumatic experiences; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with challenges including: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from traumatic experiences; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
(724) 436-1948 View (724) 436-1948
Photo of Jess Markowitz, Pre-Licensed Professional in Midland, PA
Jess Markowitz
Pre-Licensed Professional, M Ed
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
As a Counselor and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (Advanced level), I support and hold space for the healing of all kinds of trauma. I enjoy working with clients who seek support with chronic illness, sexuality, self growth, relationships & attachment, life transitions, family, systemic trauma and multigenerational or cultural matters. I believe we are deeply impacted by the cultural, social and historical contexts to which we originate, exist, and navigate; therefore I strive to attune to and support these facets of your experience in our work.
As a Counselor and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (Advanced level), I support and hold space for the healing of all kinds of trauma. I enjoy working with clients who seek support with chronic illness, sexuality, self growth, relationships & attachment, life transitions, family, systemic trauma and multigenerational or cultural matters. I believe we are deeply impacted by the cultural, social and historical contexts to which we originate, exist, and navigate; therefore I strive to attune to and support these facets of your experience in our work.
(412) 754-7913 View (412) 754-7913
Photo of Colette Lea Bone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Midland, PA
Colette Lea Bone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake City, PA 16423
We can be helped through our time of pain, frustration, or weakness, until we can become strong, learn to heal ourselves, nurture each other, and access our inner wisdom.
"We all have the capacity to be the heroes of our own story." This is the basis of my counseling approach. In the real world, we can get lost, stressed or overwhelmed when our lives become confusing or when we face a difficult change. It may be that we are just getting in our own way, that we need room to sort through issues and gain new skills, or that a significant mental illness keeps us from living the life we want.
We can be helped through our time of pain, frustration, or weakness, until we can become strong, learn to heal ourselves, nurture each other, and access our inner wisdom.
"We all have the capacity to be the heroes of our own story." This is the basis of my counseling approach. In the real world, we can get lost, stressed or overwhelmed when our lives become confusing or when we face a difficult change. It may be that we are just getting in our own way, that we need room to sort through issues and gain new skills, or that a significant mental illness keeps us from living the life we want.
(814) 313-1253 View (814) 313-1253
Photo of Megan Dufford, Psychologist in Midland, PA
Megan Dufford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090  (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, identity concerns, grief/loss, chronic illness, and women's issues are a sampling of concerns I find meaning in helping clients navigate.
Many find psychotherapy useful as a space to explore stressors and difficulties, learn new ways to cope with hardships, and ultimately make changes to enhance quality of life. I remain focused on providing support to each client and incorporate techniques aimed to alleviate distress, foster resilience, and help one move closer to achieving their goals. I utilize an integrative approach including person-centered, supportive, CBT, and/or psychodynamic techniques, always tailoring my style to meet each client's unique needs.
Anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, identity concerns, grief/loss, chronic illness, and women's issues are a sampling of concerns I find meaning in helping clients navigate.
Many find psychotherapy useful as a space to explore stressors and difficulties, learn new ways to cope with hardships, and ultimately make changes to enhance quality of life. I remain focused on providing support to each client and incorporate techniques aimed to alleviate distress, foster resilience, and help one move closer to achieving their goals. I utilize an integrative approach including person-centered, supportive, CBT, and/or psychodynamic techniques, always tailoring my style to meet each client's unique needs.
(412) 253-7125 View (412) 253-7125
Photo of Megan Zurasky, Pre-Licensed Professional in Midland, PA
Megan Zurasky
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15226
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
(412) 838-4052 View (412) 838-4052
Photo of Gallo and Associates Psychological Services, Psychologist in Midland, PA
Gallo and Associates Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, DCEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermitage, PA 16148
We also offer evaluations for Psychological, Psycho-Educational, Vocational, Neuro-Psychological, Disability, Chronic Pain, Implantable Therapy clearance, Bariatric Surgery, Custody, Competency, Treatment Planning, Police and Lethal Weapons.
Hi, I'm Dr. Fred Gallo and I want to Welcome you to Gallo & Associates Psychological Services. We've been in practice since 1977, offering cutting-edge therapy, coaching and evaluations to help individuals, couples, and families. We're passionate about helping people to overcome trauma, PTSD, grief, phobias, anxiety, addiction, depression, chronic pain, and relationship problems. Having published 9 books on brief therapies including Energy Psychology, I also train therapists worldwide in these skills.
We also offer evaluations for Psychological, Psycho-Educational, Vocational, Neuro-Psychological, Disability, Chronic Pain, Implantable Therapy clearance, Bariatric Surgery, Custody, Competency, Treatment Planning, Police and Lethal Weapons.
Hi, I'm Dr. Fred Gallo and I want to Welcome you to Gallo & Associates Psychological Services. We've been in practice since 1977, offering cutting-edge therapy, coaching and evaluations to help individuals, couples, and families. We're passionate about helping people to overcome trauma, PTSD, grief, phobias, anxiety, addiction, depression, chronic pain, and relationship problems. Having published 9 books on brief therapies including Energy Psychology, I also train therapists worldwide in these skills.
(724) 919-4654 View (724) 919-4654
Photo of Ken Evanoski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midland, PA
Ken Evanoski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Butler, PA 16001
Are you someone who is dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship problems, or physical pain? It may be time to reach out for some help. I specialize in working with adults, late teens, those over 65, & parents who are struggling with disruptive children. I'm here to help you get some relief & to get some control back in your life.
Are you someone who is dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship problems, or physical pain? It may be time to reach out for some help. I specialize in working with adults, late teens, those over 65, & parents who are struggling with disruptive children. I'm here to help you get some relief & to get some control back in your life.
(412) 207-3934 View (412) 207-3934
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.