Chronic Pain Therapists in Polk, PA

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Online Therapists

Photo of Jess Markowitz, Pre-Licensed Professional in Polk, 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 Erin Donnelly, Psychologist in Polk, PA
Erin Donnelly
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Allison Park, PA 15101  (Online Only)
My practice uniquely focuses on sexuality and reproduction: relationships/sex therapy, sexual dysfunctions, pelvic pain conditions, infertility and ARTs/third party parenting (& evaluations), adoption, reproductive traumas, peri/postpartum issues, transition to parenthood and gender identity.
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
My practice uniquely focuses on sexuality and reproduction: relationships/sex therapy, sexual dysfunctions, pelvic pain conditions, infertility and ARTs/third party parenting (& evaluations), adoption, reproductive traumas, peri/postpartum issues, transition to parenthood and gender identity.
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
(913) 370-7041 View (913) 370-7041
Photo of Beth Christiano, Psychologist in Polk, PA
Beth Christiano
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
Are you noticing an imbalance in your life, in your body, or in your emotions that makes it difficult to see your options, recognize your power, and clarify your goals? I am a Clinical Psychologist, a Registered Yoga Instructor, and a Certified Yoga Therapist with over twenty-five years of experience helping people create clarity, realize their potential, and work towards achieving their goals. I work with adolescents and adults, who experience stressful life events, illness/injury, emotions (like depression and anxiety) and behaviors (like eating disorders and additions) that lead them to feel "stuck".
Are you noticing an imbalance in your life, in your body, or in your emotions that makes it difficult to see your options, recognize your power, and clarify your goals? I am a Clinical Psychologist, a Registered Yoga Instructor, and a Certified Yoga Therapist with over twenty-five years of experience helping people create clarity, realize their potential, and work towards achieving their goals. I work with adolescents and adults, who experience stressful life events, illness/injury, emotions (like depression and anxiety) and behaviors (like eating disorders and additions) that lead them to feel "stuck".
(412) 960-4930 View (412) 960-4930
Photo of Jenny Rozzell in Polk, PA
Jenny Rozzell
CH, ACC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
Specialties: intentional change, goals, mindfulness, grief, parenting, relationships, dating, boundaries, divorce, hypnosis, pre-marital, behavior, confidence, Life’s Purpose, Adjusting to Change, Careers, Work & Team Conflicts; as well as working with individuals navigating symptoms of Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Insomnia, Pain, Hoarding, Nail Biting, Anger, Stress.
I am a Board Certified Hypnotist and Coach with years of experience. I believe in a holistic approach,meaning that mind, body, and spirit all play into our well-being. Seeking help can feel uncomfortable not only to those who have never sought it before, but also to those who have had negative experiences. I adapt my approach to each individual’s unique situation. I strive to provide a comfortable, confidential, safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space; where you will not simply "learn coping skills", but will learn how to work through stresses and problems to facilitate long-lasting change. My goal is to help you help yourself!
Specialties: intentional change, goals, mindfulness, grief, parenting, relationships, dating, boundaries, divorce, hypnosis, pre-marital, behavior, confidence, Life’s Purpose, Adjusting to Change, Careers, Work & Team Conflicts; as well as working with individuals navigating symptoms of Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Insomnia, Pain, Hoarding, Nail Biting, Anger, Stress.
I am a Board Certified Hypnotist and Coach with years of experience. I believe in a holistic approach,meaning that mind, body, and spirit all play into our well-being. Seeking help can feel uncomfortable not only to those who have never sought it before, but also to those who have had negative experiences. I adapt my approach to each individual’s unique situation. I strive to provide a comfortable, confidential, safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space; where you will not simply "learn coping skills", but will learn how to work through stresses and problems to facilitate long-lasting change. My goal is to help you help yourself!
(724) 578-5836 View (724) 578-5836
Photo of Katherine Hammond Holtz, Psychologist in Polk, 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 Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Polk, 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 Danielle M Grignol-Oza, Licensed Professional Counselor in Polk, PA
Danielle M Grignol-Oza
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Erie, PA 16506
I enjoy working with clients who are struggling with medical issues, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, relationships difficulties, and with mild grief.
Hello. I am Danielle Grignol-Oza, M.A., LPC, and I am currently accepting new clients either virtually or in office; the latter depending on circumstances due to COVID-19 restrictions. My office is located within Presque Isle Mind-Body Wellness in Erie, Pennsylvania. I accept commercial Highmark, UPMC, and Cigna employment plans. I have vast experience working with trauma, mood disorders, relationships, and self-esteem. I am open minded, flexible, and work with clients on their level. I believe you should be an active participant in your own therapy.
I enjoy working with clients who are struggling with medical issues, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, relationships difficulties, and with mild grief.
Hello. I am Danielle Grignol-Oza, M.A., LPC, and I am currently accepting new clients either virtually or in office; the latter depending on circumstances due to COVID-19 restrictions. My office is located within Presque Isle Mind-Body Wellness in Erie, Pennsylvania. I accept commercial Highmark, UPMC, and Cigna employment plans. I have vast experience working with trauma, mood disorders, relationships, and self-esteem. I am open minded, flexible, and work with clients on their level. I believe you should be an active participant in your own therapy.
(814) 212-5449 View (814) 212-5449
Photo of Ryan D. Henry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Polk, PA
Ryan D. Henry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Erie, PA 16506
I use these skills to help people address depression, anxiety, perseverative and irrational thoughts, forensic concerns, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and chronic pain.
You are here because you have something in your life that you want to change; I am here to help you make that change. Therapy is about developing the skills necessary to enact change and increase your quality of life.
I use these skills to help people address depression, anxiety, perseverative and irrational thoughts, forensic concerns, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and chronic pain.
You are here because you have something in your life that you want to change; I am here to help you make that change. Therapy is about developing the skills necessary to enact change and increase your quality of life.
(814) 200-0315 View (814) 200-0315
Photo of Jamie C. Rivers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Polk, PA
Jamie C. Rivers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Aspinwall, PA 15215
Waitlist for new clients
I help people navigate through complex medical and psychological conditions. Often times a diagnosis of cancer, diabetes, infertility, chronic pain/fatigue leaves us confused, frustrated and powerless. Medical health setbacks can impact our mental health. Conditions that may occur or worsen include: depression, anxiety, substance dependency, interpersonal conflict and relationship issues. This is not always truth. Many find their voice, their personal strength, and their love and compassion of self and others deepen.
I help people navigate through complex medical and psychological conditions. Often times a diagnosis of cancer, diabetes, infertility, chronic pain/fatigue leaves us confused, frustrated and powerless. Medical health setbacks can impact our mental health. Conditions that may occur or worsen include: depression, anxiety, substance dependency, interpersonal conflict and relationship issues. This is not always truth. Many find their voice, their personal strength, and their love and compassion of self and others deepen.
(412) 426-3655 View (412) 426-3655
Photo of Monica L Walsh, Psychologist in Polk, PA
Monica L Walsh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist located in the North Hills of Pittsburgh who treats adults across the lifespan. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 25 years, working with individuals on a wide range of issues and concerns. I have particular experience working with difficulties related to anxiety, stress, and physical health (including panic attacks, generalized anxiety, OCD, coping with chronic pain and illness, coping with life transitions, sleep difficulties).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist located in the North Hills of Pittsburgh who treats adults across the lifespan. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 25 years, working with individuals on a wide range of issues and concerns. I have particular experience working with difficulties related to anxiety, stress, and physical health (including panic attacks, generalized anxiety, OCD, coping with chronic pain and illness, coping with life transitions, sleep difficulties).
(412) 802-9514 View (412) 802-9514
Photo of Joanne R Bissell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Polk, 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 Megan Zurasky, Pre-Licensed Professional in Polk, PA
Megan Zurasky
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15226
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
(412) 838-4052 View (412) 838-4052
Photo of Megan Voll, Licensed Professional Counselor in Polk, PA
Megan Voll
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
Being the parent of a child with a chronic illness or special medical need can be incredibly stressful and many parents often feel anxious, sad, or overwhelmed.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Aspire Counseling, Megan is a trusted therapist in the Wexford area who specializes in working with parents of children with chronic illness and special medical needs. She provides therapy to mothers who are anxious or who are having difficulty adjusting to their child's diagnosis, providing coping skills in a compassionate environment that allows them to navigate each day more smoothly and with confidence.
Being the parent of a child with a chronic illness or special medical need can be incredibly stressful and many parents often feel anxious, sad, or overwhelmed.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Aspire Counseling, Megan is a trusted therapist in the Wexford area who specializes in working with parents of children with chronic illness and special medical needs. She provides therapy to mothers who are anxious or who are having difficulty adjusting to their child's diagnosis, providing coping skills in a compassionate environment that allows them to navigate each day more smoothly and with confidence.
(724) 907-1044 View (724) 907-1044
Photo of Stephanie M. Vargo in Polk, 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 Kimberly June, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Polk, PA
Kimberly June
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMT, CST
Verified Verified
McMurray, PA 15317
I treat chronic pain resulting from old injuries, traumatic brain injury, whiplash, chronic headache/migraine, concussion and facial trauma using Cranio-Sacral Therapy and Energy Integration and Alignment, a technique I developed over the past 5 years.
I am a holistic psychotherapist, trained in medical hypnotherapy,EMDR, Energy Psychology (TFT/EFT), Family Constellation work, and energy and shamanic healing in private practice in Pittsburgh. I work primarily with adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. I have trained extensively in the integration of different therapeutic modalities in order to facilitate healing and integration of the body, mind and spirit. I am also a student of meditation and teach the "Awakening the Light Body" meditation curriculum offered as both a pathway of personal transformation and as a therapeutic treatment model.
I treat chronic pain resulting from old injuries, traumatic brain injury, whiplash, chronic headache/migraine, concussion and facial trauma using Cranio-Sacral Therapy and Energy Integration and Alignment, a technique I developed over the past 5 years.
I am a holistic psychotherapist, trained in medical hypnotherapy,EMDR, Energy Psychology (TFT/EFT), Family Constellation work, and energy and shamanic healing in private practice in Pittsburgh. I work primarily with adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. I have trained extensively in the integration of different therapeutic modalities in order to facilitate healing and integration of the body, mind and spirit. I am also a student of meditation and teach the "Awakening the Light Body" meditation curriculum offered as both a pathway of personal transformation and as a therapeutic treatment model.
(724) 359-0802 View (724) 359-0802
Photo of Alicia Bisaha, Licensed Professional Counselor in Polk, 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 Shaakira Gillette, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Polk, PA
Shaakira Gillette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Erie, PA 16501  (Online Only)
This is not therapy this is an EXPERIENCE. In order to heal, you have to feel. We aren't avoiding the pain any longer. We are experiencing it...in a healing space. Welcome to the Journey.
This is not therapy this is an EXPERIENCE. In order to heal, you have to feel. We aren't avoiding the pain any longer. We are experiencing it...in a healing space. Welcome to the Journey.
(267) 209-6476 View (267) 209-6476
Photo of healthy4lifecounseling.com , Licensed Professional Counselor in Polk, PA
healthy4lifecounseling.com
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, LLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Latrobe, PA 15650
Relaxation is also important, possible benefits are: lower blood pressure, increased immunity, decreased pain, and stress levels.
Throughout life's journey, there are many paths, some more challenging than others. As we learn to make healthy habits part on of our lives, we become happier and more fulfilled in other areas. Counseling can help one work through many challenges such as: Stress, Depression, Anxiety, Work-Related Issues, Adolescent stressors (I have been working with adolescents for over 20 years in various settings), Parenting Issues, such as the unique challenges mother's of multiples encounter (I have personal experience with this, as I have twin boys), Grief and Loss,Pre-marital counseling,Marriage and Family difficulties, and Wellness.
Relaxation is also important, possible benefits are: lower blood pressure, increased immunity, decreased pain, and stress levels.
Throughout life's journey, there are many paths, some more challenging than others. As we learn to make healthy habits part on of our lives, we become happier and more fulfilled in other areas. Counseling can help one work through many challenges such as: Stress, Depression, Anxiety, Work-Related Issues, Adolescent stressors (I have been working with adolescents for over 20 years in various settings), Parenting Issues, such as the unique challenges mother's of multiples encounter (I have personal experience with this, as I have twin boys), Grief and Loss,Pre-marital counseling,Marriage and Family difficulties, and Wellness.
(412) 339-2094 View (412) 339-2094
Photo of Sage Wellness Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Polk, PA
Sage Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
Sage Wellness Practitioners are here to walk alongside you in your journey, cultivating wellness and inspiring hope for brighter tomorrow's. Our relationships with our clients are built on a foundation of integrity, compassion, competence, & trust. Our therapists are versed in working with older adolescents and adults across the lifespan. If you are struggling with life stressors and transitions, panic, anxiety, mood instability, pain management, grief & loss and more - our behavioral health therapists can help you strengthen your self esteem, build coping strategies and shift your thinking to support a healthier and happier you.
Sage Wellness Practitioners are here to walk alongside you in your journey, cultivating wellness and inspiring hope for brighter tomorrow's. Our relationships with our clients are built on a foundation of integrity, compassion, competence, & trust. Our therapists are versed in working with older adolescents and adults across the lifespan. If you are struggling with life stressors and transitions, panic, anxiety, mood instability, pain management, grief & loss and more - our behavioral health therapists can help you strengthen your self esteem, build coping strategies and shift your thinking to support a healthier and happier you.
(878) 645-3771 View (878) 645-3771
Photo of Ann-Michele Corbi Potvin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Polk, PA
Ann-Michele Corbi Potvin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BC-DMT, GL-CMA, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
My thesis research was on the psychological/emotional aspects of chronic pain and I have experience in providing perinatal support.
I take a humanistic approach to therapy and believe that we make meaning out of the events of our lives; we are capable of engaging our creativity and its healing processes. There are times when we need support to pause, breathe, and listen to our inner wisdom. I will serve as a guide and support, encouraging you to maintain or regain ownership of your own life narrative. My approach is also contemplative, relational, and existential. I often utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to support you in decreasing struggle and living in alignment with your values.
My thesis research was on the psychological/emotional aspects of chronic pain and I have experience in providing perinatal support.
I take a humanistic approach to therapy and believe that we make meaning out of the events of our lives; we are capable of engaging our creativity and its healing processes. There are times when we need support to pause, breathe, and listen to our inner wisdom. I will serve as a guide and support, encouraging you to maintain or regain ownership of your own life narrative. My approach is also contemplative, relational, and existential. I often utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to support you in decreasing struggle and living in alignment with your values.
(215) 712-8116 View (215) 712-8116
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.