Photo of Emma Chambers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Olyphant, PA
Emma Chambers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Olyphant, PA 18447  (Online Only)
Finding a therapist, especially during periods of stress, can be extremely overwhelming. Yet, the connection, the solutions, and the relief that you can access in therapy is priceless. If you’re feeling stuck and don’t know which direction to go in, or if you’re searching for ways to save your relationship, I may be the right fit for you! I have spent the last five years as a trauma therapist for the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, providing thousands of hours of psychotherapy.
Finding a therapist, especially during periods of stress, can be extremely overwhelming. Yet, the connection, the solutions, and the relief that you can access in therapy is priceless. If you’re feeling stuck and don’t know which direction to go in, or if you’re searching for ways to save your relationship, I may be the right fit for you! I have spent the last five years as a trauma therapist for the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, providing thousands of hours of psychotherapy.
(484) 604-2821 View (484) 604-2821

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tiffany Griffiths, Psy.D. & Associates, Inc., Psychologist in Olyphant, 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 Michael Raskind, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Olyphant, PA
Michael Raskind
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18504  (Online Only)
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with.
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with.
(717) 807-5614 View (717) 807-5614
Photo of April Barry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Olyphant, PA
April Barry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18502  (Online Only)
Do you seek a deeper understanding of why you do the things you do? Are you struggling but you’re not exactly sure why or what to do about it? Taking the step to explore a better understanding of yourself in therapy, is empowering, purposeful, and courageous. Through an authentic connection and openness, I believe change, growth, and healing can occur. Together, we identify areas that are impacting your thinking, behavior, and relationships, seek out and examine their origin, find meaning, and work towards achieving and practicing new, healthier ways of relating and understanding.
Do you seek a deeper understanding of why you do the things you do? Are you struggling but you’re not exactly sure why or what to do about it? Taking the step to explore a better understanding of yourself in therapy, is empowering, purposeful, and courageous. Through an authentic connection and openness, I believe change, growth, and healing can occur. Together, we identify areas that are impacting your thinking, behavior, and relationships, seek out and examine their origin, find meaning, and work towards achieving and practicing new, healthier ways of relating and understanding.
(717) 837-3507 View (717) 837-3507
Photo of Margaret M Mahoney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Olyphant, PA
Margaret M Mahoney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18503
Welcome. I mean that sincerely. I offer counseling that is based on the belief that everyone belongs, and no difficulty you face is unacceptable. I strive to create an environment in which your fears, sadness, and stressors, as well as your hopes and desires are safe. Sometimes our lives are overwhelmed by the circumstances that we experience and we need someone to help us sort it out and make sense of it. I am available to walk that part of the journey with you.
Welcome. I mean that sincerely. I offer counseling that is based on the belief that everyone belongs, and no difficulty you face is unacceptable. I strive to create an environment in which your fears, sadness, and stressors, as well as your hopes and desires are safe. Sometimes our lives are overwhelmed by the circumstances that we experience and we need someone to help us sort it out and make sense of it. I am available to walk that part of the journey with you.
(272) 204-4842 x1 View (272) 204-4842 x1
Photo of Thaxton Wellness Center & Counseling Solutions, Licensed Professional Counselor in Olyphant, PA
Thaxton Wellness Center & Counseling Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18504
You can reach us at 570-904-7363 and get to know our therapists at thaxtonholisticwellness.com. At THWC it is our mission to create a soothing, client-focused, healing-centered environment, committed and focused on you as a whole person. With over 75 years of combined experience, our skilled and compassionate therapists offer virtual and in-person individual, couple, family, and group counseling services for all ages and concerns. Supported by years of experience and training, we will work with you to develop specific, tailored strategies, using effective approaches to help you quickly achieve and sustain results.
You can reach us at 570-904-7363 and get to know our therapists at thaxtonholisticwellness.com. At THWC it is our mission to create a soothing, client-focused, healing-centered environment, committed and focused on you as a whole person. With over 75 years of combined experience, our skilled and compassionate therapists offer virtual and in-person individual, couple, family, and group counseling services for all ages and concerns. Supported by years of experience and training, we will work with you to develop specific, tailored strategies, using effective approaches to help you quickly achieve and sustain results.
(272) 200-4675 View (272) 200-4675
Photo of CB Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Olyphant, PA
CB Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Clarks Green, PA 18411
Our associates believe that clients are the experts on their lives and we are guides to help them get to their ideal selves. We use cognitive-behavioral, insight oriented therapy as well as other modalities to help clients achieve their goals. While we are nurturing and kind as therapists, we also believe in keeping clients accountable to work toward their initial purpose for entering therapy. We are qualified to work with most issues that a client may present with, with the exception of sexual offenders.
Our associates believe that clients are the experts on their lives and we are guides to help them get to their ideal selves. We use cognitive-behavioral, insight oriented therapy as well as other modalities to help clients achieve their goals. While we are nurturing and kind as therapists, we also believe in keeping clients accountable to work toward their initial purpose for entering therapy. We are qualified to work with most issues that a client may present with, with the exception of sexual offenders.
(570) 437-8554 View (570) 437-8554
Photo of Dr. Krystle Berkoski, Psychologist in Olyphant, PA
Dr. Krystle Berkoski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dickson City, PA 18519  (Online Only)
I support folx who're navigating complex interpersonal issues, recovering from distress and trauma, grieving, and/or experiencing unexplained somatic symptoms. My clients are typically seeking relief from symptoms, meaning from their experiences, and validating relationship. People who are comfortable with telehealth and ready to embrace the mind-body connection with something a little different (i.e, Somatic Experiencing) will likely match well with me.
I support folx who're navigating complex interpersonal issues, recovering from distress and trauma, grieving, and/or experiencing unexplained somatic symptoms. My clients are typically seeking relief from symptoms, meaning from their experiences, and validating relationship. People who are comfortable with telehealth and ready to embrace the mind-body connection with something a little different (i.e, Somatic Experiencing) will likely match well with me.
(570) 726-1760 View (570) 726-1760
Photo of Jennifer Wascura, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Olyphant, PA
Jennifer Wascura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18503
Welcome, I would like to tell you about myself, I am a licensed social worker. I have over 25 years in the mental health profession and helping individuals of all ages. I offer a peaceful environment where you can honestly express yourself. You can be reassured that you will not be judged in the present or past but can be assured I will work with you to obtain peace within yourself in the present and future. I look forward to helping you on your journey to serenity.
Welcome, I would like to tell you about myself, I am a licensed social worker. I have over 25 years in the mental health profession and helping individuals of all ages. I offer a peaceful environment where you can honestly express yourself. You can be reassured that you will not be judged in the present or past but can be assured I will work with you to obtain peace within yourself in the present and future. I look forward to helping you on your journey to serenity.
(570) 955-5479 View (570) 955-5479
Photo of Dr. John G. Kuna and Associates, Psychologist in Olyphant, PA
Dr. John G. Kuna and Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Carbondale, PA 18407
In a confidential and compassionate environment, we provide evidence-based, counseling/therapy services to individuals, couples, families, children, teens, and adults for a variety of issues. We also provide neuro-psychological testing and evaluation that may be needed for a variety of reasons: determination of a possible learning disability (AHDH, Autism), fitness for medical procedures (bariatric), Fitness for duty/Lethal weapons testing (Act 235/Act 120) . We accept most (private and state) insurances, have 12 convenient locations, and offer evening and weekend appointments. Please visit out website for more information on our therapists, location, and how we can help you.
In a confidential and compassionate environment, we provide evidence-based, counseling/therapy services to individuals, couples, families, children, teens, and adults for a variety of issues. We also provide neuro-psychological testing and evaluation that may be needed for a variety of reasons: determination of a possible learning disability (AHDH, Autism), fitness for medical procedures (bariatric), Fitness for duty/Lethal weapons testing (Act 235/Act 120) . We accept most (private and state) insurances, have 12 convenient locations, and offer evening and weekend appointments. Please visit out website for more information on our therapists, location, and how we can help you.
(570) 437-0985 View (570) 437-0985

Online Therapists

Photo of Christine J. Markow, Pre-Licensed Professional in Olyphant, PA
Christine J. Markow
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PhD, CBTcert, Covid19
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
With 23 years of clinical experience in pediatric and adult clinical medical psychology, I value addressing psychological wellness through a comprehensive systems approach. My therapeutic training is based in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).I believe each client plays an active role in their customized treatment to address their concerns, expand insight and achieve desired goals. I have specialized training in anxiety and depressive disorders, cyber bullying, chronic pain, stress, eating disorders, transitions associated with divorce, GI disorders & behavioral modification. For more information go to www.drchristinemarkow.com
With 23 years of clinical experience in pediatric and adult clinical medical psychology, I value addressing psychological wellness through a comprehensive systems approach. My therapeutic training is based in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).I believe each client plays an active role in their customized treatment to address their concerns, expand insight and achieve desired goals. I have specialized training in anxiety and depressive disorders, cyber bullying, chronic pain, stress, eating disorders, transitions associated with divorce, GI disorders & behavioral modification. For more information go to www.drchristinemarkow.com
(215) 867-8928 View (215) 867-8928
Photo of Kate Deatrich, Psychologist in Olyphant, PA
Kate Deatrich
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
I am an experienced psychologist who helps adolescents and adults overcome a variety of mental health and life challenges. I specialize in adolescent and adult survivors of abuse and trauma. This includes childhood abuse, sexual abuse/assault, complex PTSD, and medical trauma. Another specialty of mine is chronic pain and illness, including syndromes that are difficult to diagnose and treat. I also particularly enjoy working with folks in the LGBTQ+ community. Lastly, I provide psychological assessment for ADHD in adults, as well as IQ and personality/diagnostic testing.
I am an experienced psychologist who helps adolescents and adults overcome a variety of mental health and life challenges. I specialize in adolescent and adult survivors of abuse and trauma. This includes childhood abuse, sexual abuse/assault, complex PTSD, and medical trauma. Another specialty of mine is chronic pain and illness, including syndromes that are difficult to diagnose and treat. I also particularly enjoy working with folks in the LGBTQ+ community. Lastly, I provide psychological assessment for ADHD in adults, as well as IQ and personality/diagnostic testing.
(484) 572-4273 View (484) 572-4273
Photo of Susan Bendersky Sacks in Olyphant, PA
Susan Bendersky Sacks
MSN, PMHCNS, BC, RN
Verified Verified
Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
I am a published author & speaker with 42 years of experience in Clinical Hypnosis, Individual, Couples & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a BSN & MSN from University of Pennsylvania, and on their teaching faculty. I have advanced training in CISD, Certified in REBT & Clinical Hypnosis, working with weight loss, disordered eating, smoking cessation, anxiety, IBS, psychogenic pain, stress, self esteem, anger, depression, shame and guilt, and self-sabotaging emotions, intrusive thoughts. Clients average 3-6 sessions, or weekly, biweekly, & monthly. I am down to earth, easy to talk to, organized, evidenced based & compassionate.
I am a published author & speaker with 42 years of experience in Clinical Hypnosis, Individual, Couples & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a BSN & MSN from University of Pennsylvania, and on their teaching faculty. I have advanced training in CISD, Certified in REBT & Clinical Hypnosis, working with weight loss, disordered eating, smoking cessation, anxiety, IBS, psychogenic pain, stress, self esteem, anger, depression, shame and guilt, and self-sabotaging emotions, intrusive thoughts. Clients average 3-6 sessions, or weekly, biweekly, & monthly. I am down to earth, easy to talk to, organized, evidenced based & compassionate.
(610) 616-2207 View (610) 616-2207
Photo of Tara Elliot, Licensed Professional Counselor in Olyphant, PA
Tara Elliot
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
Sinking Spring, PA 19608  (Online Only)
I strive to create a safe, supportive environment to explore many of life's difficulties including complex trauma, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship/attachment issues, self-esteem, chronic illness, phobias, loss & grief, mood disorders, & spiritual issues. Using an integrated approach, I incorporate different styles and techniques tailored to each individual's needs supporting the whole person with a mind-body-spirit approach. Working together, we increase self-awareness through the use of breathwork, meditation, and mindfulness as we facilitate the process of psychological & emotional healing.
I strive to create a safe, supportive environment to explore many of life's difficulties including complex trauma, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship/attachment issues, self-esteem, chronic illness, phobias, loss & grief, mood disorders, & spiritual issues. Using an integrated approach, I incorporate different styles and techniques tailored to each individual's needs supporting the whole person with a mind-body-spirit approach. Working together, we increase self-awareness through the use of breathwork, meditation, and mindfulness as we facilitate the process of psychological & emotional healing.
(610) 756-0896 View (610) 756-0896
Photo of Elizabeth R. Weisman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Olyphant, PA
Elizabeth R. Weisman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Facing our fears and our pain is not easy but avoidance only prolongs and increases suffering.
THE ONLY WAY OUT IS THROUGH (Robert Frost)... It is human to suffer and it is human to face challenges. When the suffering becomes too great, and the challenges too large, good therapy can play a key role in bringing about change. If you decide to work with me, I would consider it an honor to become part of your journey towards increased health and well-being. When you come to therapy, you will be treated with respect. I bring many years of experience as a therapist, providing both brief evidence-based interventions and long term psychodynamic approach. I will work carefully with you to define and achieve your personal goals.
Facing our fears and our pain is not easy but avoidance only prolongs and increases suffering.
THE ONLY WAY OUT IS THROUGH (Robert Frost)... It is human to suffer and it is human to face challenges. When the suffering becomes too great, and the challenges too large, good therapy can play a key role in bringing about change. If you decide to work with me, I would consider it an honor to become part of your journey towards increased health and well-being. When you come to therapy, you will be treated with respect. I bring many years of experience as a therapist, providing both brief evidence-based interventions and long term psychodynamic approach. I will work carefully with you to define and achieve your personal goals.
(267) 202-4386 View (267) 202-4386
Photo of Marifel Estrada-Currie, Psychologist in Olyphant, 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 Tari Lyn Getz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Olyphant, PA
Tari Lyn Getz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333
I also offer counseling for mood and personality disorders, grief and loss, separation/divorce and blended families, as well as for medically based diagnoses, such as ADHD, fibromyalgia, and dementia.
I began my career as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) later in life, and I have great passion for the work I do with my clients. I have 10+ years of experience as a therapist for children/teens, adults, and families. I have worked in out-patient, school-based, in-home, and community settings. With younger children and parents, I often employ the principles of Parent-Child Interactive Therapy, focusing on child-directed and parent-directed play. For family therapy, I use a relational approach that is based on positive communication, mutual respect, and active listening skills. I enjoy collaborating with clients on goals.
I also offer counseling for mood and personality disorders, grief and loss, separation/divorce and blended families, as well as for medically based diagnoses, such as ADHD, fibromyalgia, and dementia.
I began my career as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) later in life, and I have great passion for the work I do with my clients. I have 10+ years of experience as a therapist for children/teens, adults, and families. I have worked in out-patient, school-based, in-home, and community settings. With younger children and parents, I often employ the principles of Parent-Child Interactive Therapy, focusing on child-directed and parent-directed play. For family therapy, I use a relational approach that is based on positive communication, mutual respect, and active listening skills. I enjoy collaborating with clients on goals.
(610) 463-0619 View (610) 463-0619
Photo of Sharon Kozuch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Olyphant, PA
Sharon Kozuch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18017  (Online Only)
I listen and guide you on your journey of releasing your pain and struggles and experiencing healing, providing a deeper connection to yourself, a greater sense of calm, awareness, and focus.
You are seeking relief... from anxiety, life transitions, unresolved trauma, work or relationship struggles. My clients often come to me in distress, riddled with questions, searching for new approaches and coping skills. Perhaps you have tried different perspectives and some have worked but stresss and anxiety, doubt and questioning settle in again. Regardless of the reason, life brings with it obstacles and challenges that can feel like you are stuck.
I listen and guide you on your journey of releasing your pain and struggles and experiencing healing, providing a deeper connection to yourself, a greater sense of calm, awareness, and focus.
You are seeking relief... from anxiety, life transitions, unresolved trauma, work or relationship struggles. My clients often come to me in distress, riddled with questions, searching for new approaches and coping skills. Perhaps you have tried different perspectives and some have worked but stresss and anxiety, doubt and questioning settle in again. Regardless of the reason, life brings with it obstacles and challenges that can feel like you are stuck.
(610) 421-9938 View (610) 421-9938
Photo of Adam Bernstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Olyphant, PA
Adam Bernstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355  (Online Only)
It is a privilege helping you to improve your relationship with yourself and others, to lessen the burden of emotional pain, or to embark on new life challenges.
Fulfilling our potential is a lifelong journey of becoming more at peace with ourselves, deepening the intimacy in our relationships, being more authentically human, and feeling more alive each day. Along the way, certain challenges arise to cause us distress or confusion. Such moments can make us feel held back, afraid, or unsure of where to go from here. But these moments can also be the points of growth and healing from which we renew ourselves in ways we did not think possible.
It is a privilege helping you to improve your relationship with yourself and others, to lessen the burden of emotional pain, or to embark on new life challenges.
Fulfilling our potential is a lifelong journey of becoming more at peace with ourselves, deepening the intimacy in our relationships, being more authentically human, and feeling more alive each day. Along the way, certain challenges arise to cause us distress or confusion. Such moments can make us feel held back, afraid, or unsure of where to go from here. But these moments can also be the points of growth and healing from which we renew ourselves in ways we did not think possible.
(610) 601-3637 View (610) 601-3637
Photo of Elizabeth Venart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Olyphant, PA
Elizabeth Venart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Flourtown, PA 19031
If you are a Highly Sensitive Person, you may struggle with self-doubt, overwhelm, and perfectionism. Your gifts of empathy, intuition, creativity, and depth may be overshadowed by these challenges. Working together, you'll deepen understanding and respect for how you're wired while gaining strategies to navigate relationships and the world with greater ease. Anxiety, depression, and reactions in the present may also signal unresolved pain from the past. As a Certified IFS Therapist, Certified EMDR Therapist and EMDRIA-Approved Consultant, we will focus on healing past trauma and easing inner conflict, so you can enjoy life today.
If you are a Highly Sensitive Person, you may struggle with self-doubt, overwhelm, and perfectionism. Your gifts of empathy, intuition, creativity, and depth may be overshadowed by these challenges. Working together, you'll deepen understanding and respect for how you're wired while gaining strategies to navigate relationships and the world with greater ease. Anxiety, depression, and reactions in the present may also signal unresolved pain from the past. As a Certified IFS Therapist, Certified EMDR Therapist and EMDRIA-Approved Consultant, we will focus on healing past trauma and easing inner conflict, so you can enjoy life today.
(267) 440-6770 View (267) 440-6770

See more therapy options for Olyphant

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.