Photo of Cynthia B. Kinney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Cynthia B. Kinney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15202  (Online Only)
Life during these times can be overwhelming. Multiple issues build up inside of us and can become compounded. We hold all of these stresses in our body and it is easy to feel anxious, depressed, sick and unhappy. I have extensive training and experience working with stress related issues, particularly work and family overload, chronic pain and illness, aging, dealing with the effects of Alzheimer's disease, and grief. I will help you to develop your inner strength and spirituality. We will explore your thoughts and feelings to solve your life problems and to use these skills so that you heal and thrive.
Life during these times can be overwhelming. Multiple issues build up inside of us and can become compounded. We hold all of these stresses in our body and it is easy to feel anxious, depressed, sick and unhappy. I have extensive training and experience working with stress related issues, particularly work and family overload, chronic pain and illness, aging, dealing with the effects of Alzheimer's disease, and grief. I will help you to develop your inner strength and spirituality. We will explore your thoughts and feelings to solve your life problems and to use these skills so that you heal and thrive.
(412) 455-7257 View (412) 455-7257
Photo of Kate Semple, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Kate Semple
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15226  (Online Only)
I love working with adults who want to get curious about the ways their past affects their present. Beginning in childhood, we learned to adapt to our circumstances and adjust our behaviors to maintain safety and security with others. Many of us found along the way that our emotions, needs, or wants were "too much" for the people we turned to for connection and protection. As a result we may have come to believe that we had to hide parts of ourselves in order to be loved or cared for. Over time, this hiding can lead to feelings of distress, anxiety, depression, shame, relationship challenges, and even chronic pain.
I love working with adults who want to get curious about the ways their past affects their present. Beginning in childhood, we learned to adapt to our circumstances and adjust our behaviors to maintain safety and security with others. Many of us found along the way that our emotions, needs, or wants were "too much" for the people we turned to for connection and protection. As a result we may have come to believe that we had to hide parts of ourselves in order to be loved or cared for. Over time, this hiding can lead to feelings of distress, anxiety, depression, shame, relationship challenges, and even chronic pain.
(412) 743-9409 View (412) 743-9409
Photo of Mrigaya Sinha, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
Mrigaya Sinha
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228  (Online Only)
People do the best they can for their lives, however, old traumas, wounds and life challenges can create suffering, depression and anxiety. This can be a very lonely place to be 'stuck in' and we all deserve to find our way to health and healing. When people are held with compassion and warmth, there can be tremendous healing and big transformations. I have worked extensively with adults facing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, chronic pain, interpersonal issues, and adjustment problems. No matter at what pace people want to go, this journey of healing and growth should not be a lonely one.
People do the best they can for their lives, however, old traumas, wounds and life challenges can create suffering, depression and anxiety. This can be a very lonely place to be 'stuck in' and we all deserve to find our way to health and healing. When people are held with compassion and warmth, there can be tremendous healing and big transformations. I have worked extensively with adults facing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, chronic pain, interpersonal issues, and adjustment problems. No matter at what pace people want to go, this journey of healing and growth should not be a lonely one.
(412) 460-4148 View (412) 460-4148
Photo of Stephanie M. Vargo in Pittsburgh, PA
Stephanie M. Vargo
MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
I currently work with healing systems that have proven effective for issues like anxiety, trauma, addiction, chronic illness and pain, and spiritual crisis.
I offer experience, compassion and respect to all clients. I have over 35 years experience as a psychotherapist specializing in existentialism, philosophy, Ericksonian hypnosis, the treatment of addiction, trauma and loss. I am a Reiki Master and am trained in other mind/body/energy treatment modalities. I have taught existential/phenomenological philosophy and treatment classes. I specialize in mind/body work and can teach you to manage stress, increase awareness, gain confidence and overcome obstacles in your life. I have a gentle and powerful demeanor that increases energy and motivation. I offer a non-traditional approach.
I currently work with healing systems that have proven effective for issues like anxiety, trauma, addiction, chronic illness and pain, and spiritual crisis.
I offer experience, compassion and respect to all clients. I have over 35 years experience as a psychotherapist specializing in existentialism, philosophy, Ericksonian hypnosis, the treatment of addiction, trauma and loss. I am a Reiki Master and am trained in other mind/body/energy treatment modalities. I have taught existential/phenomenological philosophy and treatment classes. I specialize in mind/body work and can teach you to manage stress, increase awareness, gain confidence and overcome obstacles in your life. I have a gentle and powerful demeanor that increases energy and motivation. I offer a non-traditional approach.
(412) 253-4569 View (412) 253-4569
Photo of Delilah Miller in Pittsburgh, PA
Delilah Miller
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15202  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationships, career counseling, chronic pain, emotional disturbance and self-esteem.
Welcome to my practice! Here you will find a unique approach and perspective to healing trauma, finding direction, and experiencing a shift in your life. This approach and perspective embodies love, light, creativity, and perfection as YOU! My approach and work is born from years of deep emotional trauma and a process of intricate healing involving body, soul and spirit.
I specialize in treating trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationships, career counseling, chronic pain, emotional disturbance and self-esteem.
Welcome to my practice! Here you will find a unique approach and perspective to healing trauma, finding direction, and experiencing a shift in your life. This approach and perspective embodies love, light, creativity, and perfection as YOU! My approach and work is born from years of deep emotional trauma and a process of intricate healing involving body, soul and spirit.
(412) 790-2852 View (412) 790-2852
Photo of Gwen F Melnick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Gwen F Melnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
(412) 356-9859 View (412) 356-9859
Photo of Amy Gamble-Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Amy Gamble-Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
With over 17 years of experience in psychotherapy, I specialize in treating issues related to trauma, spiritual & religious abuse, chronic illness/pain, eating disorders and grief & loss.
Have you been feeling lonely, disconnected or not like yourself? Maybe there are issues from the past that you haven't dealt with that you would like to heal without feeling overwhelmed. Possibly you feel swept away by your emotions and don't know how to get them under control. Perhaps you are feeling stuck, frustrated or tired. Oftentimes these issues can lead to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. My specialty is in helping you identify & address the root issues, develop the skills to deal with those issues, while getting in better relationship with yourself.
With over 17 years of experience in psychotherapy, I specialize in treating issues related to trauma, spiritual & religious abuse, chronic illness/pain, eating disorders and grief & loss.
Have you been feeling lonely, disconnected or not like yourself? Maybe there are issues from the past that you haven't dealt with that you would like to heal without feeling overwhelmed. Possibly you feel swept away by your emotions and don't know how to get them under control. Perhaps you are feeling stuck, frustrated or tired. Oftentimes these issues can lead to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. My specialty is in helping you identify & address the root issues, develop the skills to deal with those issues, while getting in better relationship with yourself.
(412) 285-1402 View (412) 285-1402
Photo of Spencer Kilpatrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Spencer Kilpatrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235  (Online Only)
Connection to ourselves and others makes us feel whole. Ask yourself now, "Where are my people", "where do I feel as though I am authentically me"? Because mental un-health (our depressions, our anxieties) comes when we are disconnected from those spaces and people. Many factors can disconnect us: death, loss, transition, trauma, heartbreak, stress, abuse, illness, etc. I work with clients across diverse contexts to find reconnection and wholeness despite these disconnectors.
Connection to ourselves and others makes us feel whole. Ask yourself now, "Where are my people", "where do I feel as though I am authentically me"? Because mental un-health (our depressions, our anxieties) comes when we are disconnected from those spaces and people. Many factors can disconnect us: death, loss, transition, trauma, heartbreak, stress, abuse, illness, etc. I work with clients across diverse contexts to find reconnection and wholeness despite these disconnectors.
(724) 246-6657 View (724) 246-6657
Photo of Joanne R Bissell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Joanne R Bissell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCM, CMIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I believe in a holistic approach which respects the importance of a healthy mind, body, and spirit. My client base includes individuals with chronic illness and pain, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and stage of life issues.
I believe in a holistic approach which respects the importance of a healthy mind, body, and spirit. My client base includes individuals with chronic illness and pain, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and stage of life issues.
(412) 214-7114 View (412) 214-7114
Photo of Katherine Hammond Holtz, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
Katherine Hammond Holtz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals who are interested in promoting well-being in themselves and in relation to others. Mindfulness instruction is available as a key component of my therapy should this focus be desired. Studies have shown that a regular practice of mindfulness supports an enriched experience of life, feelings of well being, better ability to cope with stress and pain, reduced panic, anxiety, and fear and better concentration. I currently only offer tele-health, accessible from the comfort of your own home or office.
I enjoy working with individuals who are interested in promoting well-being in themselves and in relation to others. Mindfulness instruction is available as a key component of my therapy should this focus be desired. Studies have shown that a regular practice of mindfulness supports an enriched experience of life, feelings of well being, better ability to cope with stress and pain, reduced panic, anxiety, and fear and better concentration. I currently only offer tele-health, accessible from the comfort of your own home or office.
(412) 593-2307 View (412) 593-2307
Photo of David Gresko, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, 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 Nancy L. Ritsko, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, 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 Alicia Bisaha, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Alicia Bisaha
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I work with people who have experienced issues with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, pain, and relationships .
Is depression or anxiety keeping you from fully enjoying your life? Would you like to improve your relationships with family, friends, or others? Do you feel stressed or stuck? People seek therapy for many different reasons. Whatever the reason, it should be a life enhancing experience. I have assisted many individuals and families with these and other life issues and would like to help you!
I work with people who have experienced issues with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, pain, and relationships .
Is depression or anxiety keeping you from fully enjoying your life? Would you like to improve your relationships with family, friends, or others? Do you feel stressed or stuck? People seek therapy for many different reasons. Whatever the reason, it should be a life enhancing experience. I have assisted many individuals and families with these and other life issues and would like to help you!
(412) 228-0727 View (412) 228-0727
Photo of Casey Harvilla, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Casey Harvilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing trauma, anxiety, and depression, as well as adolescents living with chronic pain and illness.
Life can be chaotic, overwhelming, and leave us feeling stuck or questioning what to do next. These feelings can be difficult to describe and process on our own, and you shouldn’t feel alone in your journey. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am trained in using art making and creativity within the therapeutic process to serve as an option when words are not enough. My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet you where you are in your healing process and provide you with the tools to reclaim the chaos in your life and begin experiencing life the way you deserve.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing trauma, anxiety, and depression, as well as adolescents living with chronic pain and illness.
Life can be chaotic, overwhelming, and leave us feeling stuck or questioning what to do next. These feelings can be difficult to describe and process on our own, and you shouldn’t feel alone in your journey. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am trained in using art making and creativity within the therapeutic process to serve as an option when words are not enough. My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet you where you are in your healing process and provide you with the tools to reclaim the chaos in your life and begin experiencing life the way you deserve.
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Photo of Jessica Beu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Jessica Beu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212  (Online Only)
I help clients identify and reach their personal goals utilizing an integrative approach that includes focusing on strengths, trauma informed care, and Polyvagal Theory. Clients dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, chronic pain and illness can expect a compassionate and collaborative environment to work on overcoming these challenges. Those who are looking to increase self-efficacy, develop tools for self regulation, and motivated to make change will be supported and empowered to access their innate healing capabilities.
I help clients identify and reach their personal goals utilizing an integrative approach that includes focusing on strengths, trauma informed care, and Polyvagal Theory. Clients dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, chronic pain and illness can expect a compassionate and collaborative environment to work on overcoming these challenges. Those who are looking to increase self-efficacy, develop tools for self regulation, and motivated to make change will be supported and empowered to access their innate healing capabilities.
(412) 214-8951 View (412) 214-8951
Photo of Joni Keating, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, 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 Jess Markowitz, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, 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 Carter Cunningham, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, 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 Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, 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 New Directions Mental Health - Wexford, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
New Directions Mental Health - Wexford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
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
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.