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Online Therapists

Photo of Tiffany Griffiths, Psy.D. & Associates, Inc., Psychologist in Monroe County, 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 Marifel Estrada-Currie, Psychologist in Monroe County, 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 Katherine M Schneider, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, 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 Courtney Gable, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe County, 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 Katharine L. Bertolet Psyd, Psychologist in Monroe County, 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 Cheryl N Foxworth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe County, 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 Valerie Palencar, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe County, 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 Sarah Lobb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, 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 Jordon Campbell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe County, 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 Breesha Comish, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe County, 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 Hillary Bossert-Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, 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 Valentina Isleib, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe County, 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 Jaclyn Borgia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe County, 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 Dr Sarah Ullman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe County, PA
Dr Sarah Ullman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004  (Online Only)
I believe in the power of research-driven, neuroscience-based treatment because healing begins with knowing. I am a neuroscience-trained cognitive-behaviorist with a PhD in clinical psychology, and 40 years of clinical expertise in the assessment and psychotherapy for problems with PTSD, Childhood Trauma, and Addiction, for individuals and couples including veterans and active-duty military. If you suffer from trauma or addiction (drugs, alcohol, sex, gambling, pornography, internet/gaming), you are welcome to be seen in my office, anywhere in the country, or around the world through telehealth web-therapy.
I believe in the power of research-driven, neuroscience-based treatment because healing begins with knowing. I am a neuroscience-trained cognitive-behaviorist with a PhD in clinical psychology, and 40 years of clinical expertise in the assessment and psychotherapy for problems with PTSD, Childhood Trauma, and Addiction, for individuals and couples including veterans and active-duty military. If you suffer from trauma or addiction (drugs, alcohol, sex, gambling, pornography, internet/gaming), you are welcome to be seen in my office, anywhere in the country, or around the world through telehealth web-therapy.
(484) 469-9632 View (484) 469-9632
Photo of Marcela Blair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, PA
Marcela Blair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milford, PA 18337
I bring to my practice the skills and experience of a rich 20-year career, as well as a solid humanistic approach to mental health, human relationships and growth. I believe that every human being has value, deserves respect, benefits from meaningful relationships, and has the capability for self-actualization. Therapy is a powerful process not only to overcome adversity, obstacles, or negative patterns in thinking, behaviors or relationships that may be causing suffering, but also it can be an extraordinary opportunity to explore and find your uniqueness, potential and strength in ways that you may have not considered before.
I bring to my practice the skills and experience of a rich 20-year career, as well as a solid humanistic approach to mental health, human relationships and growth. I believe that every human being has value, deserves respect, benefits from meaningful relationships, and has the capability for self-actualization. Therapy is a powerful process not only to overcome adversity, obstacles, or negative patterns in thinking, behaviors or relationships that may be causing suffering, but also it can be an extraordinary opportunity to explore and find your uniqueness, potential and strength in ways that you may have not considered before.
(718) 913-0234 View (718) 913-0234
Photo of Rooted Relational Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe County, PA
Rooted Relational Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mifflinburg, PA 17844
Struggling with depression, anxiety, or stress? Dealing with grief, loss, or trauma? Feeling overwhelmed? Losing hope that things will ever change? WE CAN HELP. We are here to help you experience growth, healing, and wholeness in your life and relationships. Whether you want to feel less stressed, experience less conflict, enjoy better communication, fall more deeply in love, or otherwise enjoy better self-esteem and more satisfying relationships with partners, friends, family, or kids (even adult children), our experienced and highly trained therapists can help you reach your goals.
Struggling with depression, anxiety, or stress? Dealing with grief, loss, or trauma? Feeling overwhelmed? Losing hope that things will ever change? WE CAN HELP. We are here to help you experience growth, healing, and wholeness in your life and relationships. Whether you want to feel less stressed, experience less conflict, enjoy better communication, fall more deeply in love, or otherwise enjoy better self-esteem and more satisfying relationships with partners, friends, family, or kids (even adult children), our experienced and highly trained therapists can help you reach your goals.
(570) 884-4662 x1 View (570) 884-4662 x1
Photo of Melanie Yoder Salim, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, PA
Melanie Yoder Salim, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or having trouble connecting in your relationships? Are you used to dealing with life on your own, but struggling to cope? Considering therapy, but unsure of what to expect? Have you had trouble finding the right fit with past therapists, or been forced to locate a new therapist due to changes outside of your control? Do you struggle to feel enough and to know your own worth? Do you long for deeper connections with others, but don't know how? Do you avoid conflict but find you are often angry or disconnected from your emotions?
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or having trouble connecting in your relationships? Are you used to dealing with life on your own, but struggling to cope? Considering therapy, but unsure of what to expect? Have you had trouble finding the right fit with past therapists, or been forced to locate a new therapist due to changes outside of your control? Do you struggle to feel enough and to know your own worth? Do you long for deeper connections with others, but don't know how? Do you avoid conflict but find you are often angry or disconnected from your emotions?
(717) 974-3429 View (717) 974-3429
Photo of Mind Matters Counseling & Psychological Assocs, Psychologist in Monroe County, PA
Mind Matters Counseling & Psychological Assocs
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Reading, PA 19609
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
(610) 816-6232 View (610) 816-6232
Photo of Jennifer Udis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe County, PA
Jennifer Udis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603
Hi! My name is Jennifer Udis and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania. I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I am passionate about supporting all of my clients through challenges to experience healing and growth in their lives.
Hi! My name is Jennifer Udis and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania. I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I am passionate about supporting all of my clients through challenges to experience healing and growth in their lives.
(717) 912-9299 View (717) 912-9299
Photo of Zora Wesley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, 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

See more therapy options for Monroe County


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.