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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hillary Bossert-Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Schaefferstown, PA
Hillary Bossert-Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lititz, PA 17543
I also work with individuals with chronic pain and approach this from a holistic perspective.
In my practice, I find meeting my clients where they are and working together from their goals to be most effective. I would work with my you from a strengths-based approach, helping you to focus your goals on improving your quality of life and working on the different areas of life which either prevent you from achieving your desires or may be a strength to work from! I am open to working with clients from all ages and backgrounds!
I also work with individuals with chronic pain and approach this from a holistic perspective.
In my practice, I find meeting my clients where they are and working together from their goals to be most effective. I would work with my you from a strengths-based approach, helping you to focus your goals on improving your quality of life and working on the different areas of life which either prevent you from achieving your desires or may be a strength to work from! I am open to working with clients from all ages and backgrounds!
(717) 276-4262 View (717) 276-4262
Photo of Heather Gerhart, Marriage & Family Therapist in Schaefferstown, PA
Heather Gerhart
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522
I enjoy working with clients of all ages. My style is collaborative. I trust that YOU are the expert on your life and I bring heart, wisdom, knowledge, and skill to the relationship that can help you on your journey towards health and wholeness.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages. My style is collaborative. I trust that YOU are the expert on your life and I bring heart, wisdom, knowledge, and skill to the relationship that can help you on your journey towards health and wholeness.
(717) 802-8454 View (717) 802-8454
Photo of Life and Love Counseling, LLC., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Schaefferstown, PA
Life and Love Counseling, LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lititz, PA 17543
Hi! We are Life and Love Counseling, LLC., a caring outpatient psychotherapy office, located in Lancaster, PA providing mental health services, life coaching, & holistic therapies for individuals (children ages 3+, adolescents, & adults), families, couples, & groups. When life becomes overwhelming, psychotherapy offers therapeutic support, encouragement, psychoeducation, & facilitates the implementation of problem-solving strategies to navigate difficult & challenging times. We utilize CBT strategies to address negative thoughts, feelings, & behaviors. We offer holistic approaches to attain balance & awaken an inner calm.
Hi! We are Life and Love Counseling, LLC., a caring outpatient psychotherapy office, located in Lancaster, PA providing mental health services, life coaching, & holistic therapies for individuals (children ages 3+, adolescents, & adults), families, couples, & groups. When life becomes overwhelming, psychotherapy offers therapeutic support, encouragement, psychoeducation, & facilitates the implementation of problem-solving strategies to navigate difficult & challenging times. We utilize CBT strategies to address negative thoughts, feelings, & behaviors. We offer holistic approaches to attain balance & awaken an inner calm.
(717) 454-2068 View (717) 454-2068

Online Therapists

Photo of Breesha Comish, Marriage & Family Therapist in Schaefferstown, PA
Breesha Comish
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17602
If you are feeling lost or stuck in life, feeling haunted by a past event, navigating illness, wish to feel closer to your partner or to improve your communication, please me via email welcome@sunpointwellness.
I help couples and individuals work through life’s challenges. I use a caring approach while integrating effective treatment models to help people thrive in life. Specialties Include: Couples Therapy for Desire Differences, Sexual Issues, Communication Issues, Intimacy Conflict, Navigation of Medical dx, and Trauma. I am open to working with individuals and couples who have traditional as well as non-traditional partnerships. I provide a supportive and safe space for individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community. I also specialize in helping young adults recover from childhood trauma and in empowering them to find their own path in life.
If you are feeling lost or stuck in life, feeling haunted by a past event, navigating illness, wish to feel closer to your partner or to improve your communication, please me via email welcome@sunpointwellness.
I help couples and individuals work through life’s challenges. I use a caring approach while integrating effective treatment models to help people thrive in life. Specialties Include: Couples Therapy for Desire Differences, Sexual Issues, Communication Issues, Intimacy Conflict, Navigation of Medical dx, and Trauma. I am open to working with individuals and couples who have traditional as well as non-traditional partnerships. I provide a supportive and safe space for individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community. I also specialize in helping young adults recover from childhood trauma and in empowering them to find their own path in life.
(717) 297-1974 View (717) 297-1974
Photo of Katharine L. Bertolet Psyd, Psychologist in Schaefferstown, PA
Katharine L. Bertolet Psyd
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
The psychotherapy I do is depth-oriented, offered in a safe and peaceful setting, where we can build your sense of inner peace. We will uncover your family legacy, as well as the maladaptive patterns you are living that underlie your suffering. Within that context, we will practice awareness of the present moment and unhook you from the influences of the past. We can work to improve your relationships, clarify your life goals and help you find a sense of ease and confidence in yourself. If you are depressed and/or anxious, we will find the ways to release you from emotional pain and move toward personal fulfillment.
The psychotherapy I do is depth-oriented, offered in a safe and peaceful setting, where we can build your sense of inner peace. We will uncover your family legacy, as well as the maladaptive patterns you are living that underlie your suffering. Within that context, we will practice awareness of the present moment and unhook you from the influences of the past. We can work to improve your relationships, clarify your life goals and help you find a sense of ease and confidence in yourself. If you are depressed and/or anxious, we will find the ways to release you from emotional pain and move toward personal fulfillment.
(215) 987-5281 View (215) 987-5281
Photo of Jordon Campbell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Schaefferstown, PA
Jordon Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19132  (Online Only)
I have experience in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, racial identity, relationship issues, life transitions, family planning, crisis management, sex therapy, teens/adolescents, chronic illness, intimacy.
My passion is to work with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds that are having a difficult time communicating their feelings and needs. I work closely with my clients to help them discover their innate coping skills while introducing a variety of others.Those that struggle in their relationships; whether it be with work, friends or a loved one, will gain support in creating and setting appropriate boundaries. I provide a space to work through trauma (sexual, racial, familial and work). I also provide clinical supervision for therapists seeking to expand and grow their mental health career
I have experience in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, racial identity, relationship issues, life transitions, family planning, crisis management, sex therapy, teens/adolescents, chronic illness, intimacy.
My passion is to work with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds that are having a difficult time communicating their feelings and needs. I work closely with my clients to help them discover their innate coping skills while introducing a variety of others.Those that struggle in their relationships; whether it be with work, friends or a loved one, will gain support in creating and setting appropriate boundaries. I provide a space to work through trauma (sexual, racial, familial and work). I also provide clinical supervision for therapists seeking to expand and grow their mental health career
(215) 486-8220 View (215) 486-8220
Photo of Tiffany Griffiths, Psy.D. & Associates, Inc., Psychologist in Schaefferstown, 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 Valerie Palencar, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Schaefferstown, PA
Valerie Palencar, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittston, PA 18640
We all go through periods of pain and confusion.
Hello! I work with my clients using a Cognitive Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Solution Focused Approach. Solution Focused means we try to solve issues and problems as soon as possible. I am also a trauma specialist and have worked with military and domestic violence victims for many years. Trauma is relative to each individual and shouldn't be compared. And there are ways to heal and thrive! I also work with sexual addiction, childhood behavioral issues, depression and anxiety, chronic pain, career coaching, and all female issues. I also offer premarital and marital counseling.
We all go through periods of pain and confusion.
Hello! I work with my clients using a Cognitive Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Solution Focused Approach. Solution Focused means we try to solve issues and problems as soon as possible. I am also a trauma specialist and have worked with military and domestic violence victims for many years. Trauma is relative to each individual and shouldn't be compared. And there are ways to heal and thrive! I also work with sexual addiction, childhood behavioral issues, depression and anxiety, chronic pain, career coaching, and all female issues. I also offer premarital and marital counseling.
(917) 821-6645 View (917) 821-6645
Photo of Cheryl N Foxworth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Schaefferstown, PA
Cheryl N Foxworth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Prolonged exposure to/with pain can negatively impact how we feel about ourselves and others.
Hello my name is Cheryl Foxworth. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and AAMFT Approved Supervisor in Pennsylvania. For over 20-years I have worked with families in distress. I believe that most often the negative experiences we have in childhood corrupts our true sense of being. These early childhood issues often results in a disconnect with our true self. How tragic this can be but there is hope. I would love to think that "What does not kill us will only make us stronger. " This is a quote from philosopher Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche that has become my personal mantra. We must learn how to live beyond our hurt....
Prolonged exposure to/with pain can negatively impact how we feel about ourselves and others.
Hello my name is Cheryl Foxworth. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and AAMFT Approved Supervisor in Pennsylvania. For over 20-years I have worked with families in distress. I believe that most often the negative experiences we have in childhood corrupts our true sense of being. These early childhood issues often results in a disconnect with our true self. How tragic this can be but there is hope. I would love to think that "What does not kill us will only make us stronger. " This is a quote from philosopher Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche that has become my personal mantra. We must learn how to live beyond our hurt....
(267) 627-3026 View (267) 627-3026
Photo of Jaclyn Borgia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Schaefferstown, PA
Jaclyn Borgia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bensalem, PA 19020  (Online Only)
I believe that in life, we can learn to laugh and smile while also living amongst our pain and anguish.
Are you struggling with imposter syndrome? Even though people compliment your work, personality, achievements or looks, do you have trouble fully believing them? It can be hard to love yourself completely if you were raised in a household that criticized you or withheld affection unless you performed. Whether you’re mourning the loss of a loved one who’s passed, or simply grieving the family you never had but wish you did—big emotions can be hard to navigate. You might be so sad sometimes, it feels like your grief will never end. Or you might be so anxious, it’s difficult for you to advocate for yourself and make sound decisions.
I believe that in life, we can learn to laugh and smile while also living amongst our pain and anguish.
Are you struggling with imposter syndrome? Even though people compliment your work, personality, achievements or looks, do you have trouble fully believing them? It can be hard to love yourself completely if you were raised in a household that criticized you or withheld affection unless you performed. Whether you’re mourning the loss of a loved one who’s passed, or simply grieving the family you never had but wish you did—big emotions can be hard to navigate. You might be so sad sometimes, it feels like your grief will never end. Or you might be so anxious, it’s difficult for you to advocate for yourself and make sound decisions.
(267) 848-9812 View (267) 848-9812
Photo of Courtney Gable, Licensed Professional Counselor in Schaefferstown, PA
Courtney Gable
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Blue Bell, PA 19422
My inclusive work focuses on: Helping people to feel regulated and empowered, and to feel seen, safe, and valued for who they are in our process together; those struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety; chronic pain, grief and loss, phobias, racing thoughts, crossroads and upheaval; as well as Body Image, with a specific focus on Body Neutrality and Health At Every Size (HAES) – all with mindfulness, compassion, and acceptance.
My inclusive work focuses on: Helping people to feel regulated and empowered, and to feel seen, safe, and valued for who they are in our process together; those struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety; chronic pain, grief and loss, phobias, racing thoughts, crossroads and upheaval; as well as Body Image, with a specific focus on Body Neutrality and Health At Every Size (HAES) – all with mindfulness, compassion, and acceptance.
(215) 607-6969 View (215) 607-6969
Photo of Katherine M Schneider, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Schaefferstown, PA
Katherine M Schneider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19129
I am experienced in working with clients with unique circumstances and needs, including those regarding sexuality, religion, gender identity, and chronic illness.
Everyone has a story and it is my privilege to be invited into yours. My unique blend of warmth and tenacity set me apart as a therapist and allow me to work with clients towards meaningful change. I value the relationships I form with clients and my goal is to make everyone I work with feel safe, respected and accepted for who they are. My practice is shaped by a combination of formal education and hands-on experience, including training in psychoanalysis, couples counseling, ExRP, play therapy and family therapy.
I am experienced in working with clients with unique circumstances and needs, including those regarding sexuality, religion, gender identity, and chronic illness.
Everyone has a story and it is my privilege to be invited into yours. My unique blend of warmth and tenacity set me apart as a therapist and allow me to work with clients towards meaningful change. I value the relationships I form with clients and my goal is to make everyone I work with feel safe, respected and accepted for who they are. My practice is shaped by a combination of formal education and hands-on experience, including training in psychoanalysis, couples counseling, ExRP, play therapy and family therapy.
(215) 608-3494 View (215) 608-3494
Photo of Marifel Estrada-Currie, Psychologist in Schaefferstown, 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 Valentina Isleib, Marriage & Family Therapist in Schaefferstown, PA
Valentina Isleib
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCIT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayne, PA 19087
What are you looking for in therapy? I aim to assist you answering this question in a calm and encouraging environment where your concerns and hopes are heard and valued and where we can work together for you to achieve this purpose. I will ask you guiding questions to encourage deeper curiosity and care for yourself, and together we will explore answers that will help you create goals to support the change you need. I work with individuals, couples or families facing emotional pain, anxiety, depression, anger, couples issues, addiction, etc. and I assist their making discoveries that can help them create change.
What are you looking for in therapy? I aim to assist you answering this question in a calm and encouraging environment where your concerns and hopes are heard and valued and where we can work together for you to achieve this purpose. I will ask you guiding questions to encourage deeper curiosity and care for yourself, and together we will explore answers that will help you create goals to support the change you need. I work with individuals, couples or families facing emotional pain, anxiety, depression, anger, couples issues, addiction, etc. and I assist their making discoveries that can help them create change.
(610) 550-8878 View (610) 550-8878
Photo of Amy Weinsteiger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Schaefferstown, PA
Amy Weinsteiger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104
I focus on helping individuals feel accepted and safe while supporting them in reaching their goals. I strive to help people find satisfaction in all aspects of their lives and to become the best friend, partner, parent, sibling, and SELF that they can be.
I focus on helping individuals feel accepted and safe while supporting them in reaching their goals. I strive to help people find satisfaction in all aspects of their lives and to become the best friend, partner, parent, sibling, and SELF that they can be.
(610) 822-9047 View (610) 822-9047
Photo of Inez Garrette-Lloyd, Pre-Licensed Professional in Schaefferstown, PA
Inez Garrette-Lloyd
Pre-Licensed Professional, RN, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodlyn, PA 19094  (Online Only)
You may be feeling that the world is closing in on you, because life's pressures are so overwhelming, and you're ready for a change. Panic attacks, anxiety, trauma, or your relationships may be getting the best of you, or you are struggling to help your child manage feelings of anxiety. It feels that your relationships or even life in general could use an overhaul, because the challenges you have faced are beyond what you expected. You know that feeling better is possible, but you forget what feeling good is like. More than anything, you no longer want to do it alone, and you are ready to bring peace & calm into your life.
You may be feeling that the world is closing in on you, because life's pressures are so overwhelming, and you're ready for a change. Panic attacks, anxiety, trauma, or your relationships may be getting the best of you, or you are struggling to help your child manage feelings of anxiety. It feels that your relationships or even life in general could use an overhaul, because the challenges you have faced are beyond what you expected. You know that feeling better is possible, but you forget what feeling good is like. More than anything, you no longer want to do it alone, and you are ready to bring peace & calm into your life.
(484) 746-5461 View (484) 746-5461
Photo of Liane Kempner Kuhns, Licensed Professional Counselor in Schaefferstown, PA
Liane Kempner Kuhns
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mifflinburg, PA 17844
I joined Rooted Relational Therapy in 2021, with 30 years of experience doing outpatient and in-home therapy. Providing in-home services and crisis intervention really honed my ability to think on my feet! My work in local county mental health services provided me with a vast knowledge of local resources. I earned both my degrees in Psychology, first a Bachelor of Arts from Penn State and then a Master of Arts in Psychology from The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. In my professional work, I take a strength-based, trauma-informed approach, that is sensitive to cultural diversity and attachment injuries.
I joined Rooted Relational Therapy in 2021, with 30 years of experience doing outpatient and in-home therapy. Providing in-home services and crisis intervention really honed my ability to think on my feet! My work in local county mental health services provided me with a vast knowledge of local resources. I earned both my degrees in Psychology, first a Bachelor of Arts from Penn State and then a Master of Arts in Psychology from The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. In my professional work, I take a strength-based, trauma-informed approach, that is sensitive to cultural diversity and attachment injuries.
(272) 206-2262 x1 View (272) 206-2262 x1
Photo of Main Line and Princeton DBT Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Schaefferstown, PA
Main Line and Princeton DBT Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Narberth, PA 19072
Now offering parent groups! Learn skills to be more effective and connected to your teen. Are you or your child/teen struggling with emotional challenges or symptoms of anxiety or depression? Maybe you are experiencing family conflict or perhaps you are dealing with grief and loss. I have specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)- an approach that offers concrete tools you can use to cultivate greater happiness and resolve conflict in more effective ways. This evidence-based approach is widely used to successfully treat mood and anxiety disorders.
Now offering parent groups! Learn skills to be more effective and connected to your teen. Are you or your child/teen struggling with emotional challenges or symptoms of anxiety or depression? Maybe you are experiencing family conflict or perhaps you are dealing with grief and loss. I have specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)- an approach that offers concrete tools you can use to cultivate greater happiness and resolve conflict in more effective ways. This evidence-based approach is widely used to successfully treat mood and anxiety disorders.
(215) 274-0848 View (215) 274-0848
Photo of Zora Wesley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Schaefferstown, PA
Zora Wesley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Do you struggle with self-esteem issues and want to be more confident? Are you dealing with a major depressive disorder and have poor sleep & hygiene? Do you want a better life so you can keep your job and have a thriving life? I can help you identify where negative thoughts about yourself and your identity stem from. We will work on identifying negative thoughts and stress triggers. We will review what interventions have worked and have not worked for your mental health. I provide psychoeducation & may give some mini exercises, such as using positive affirmations, coming up with a nighttime routine, & relaxation techniques.
Do you struggle with self-esteem issues and want to be more confident? Are you dealing with a major depressive disorder and have poor sleep & hygiene? Do you want a better life so you can keep your job and have a thriving life? I can help you identify where negative thoughts about yourself and your identity stem from. We will work on identifying negative thoughts and stress triggers. We will review what interventions have worked and have not worked for your mental health. I provide psychoeducation & may give some mini exercises, such as using positive affirmations, coming up with a nighttime routine, & relaxation techniques.
(267) 662-1024 View (267) 662-1024
Photo of Nancy A. Vanore in Schaefferstown, PA
Nancy A. Vanore
MSN, APRN, BC, CISD, LLC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Areas of specialty include: developing communication strategies focused on improving relationships in step-families/blended families, and for individuals and couples. Additional areas of treatment include: counseling divorce/separation and break-up issues, infidelity, restructuring life following a loss, catastrophic event, managing cancer survivorship and developing coping strategies following life transitions (loss of job/graduating from college), supportive treatment for infertility struggles, as well as, treatment for anxiety, depression, and stress. My extensive nursing background, coupled with my Masters Degree therapy training and experience, have given me a deeper depth of empathy and understanding of life's challenges.
Areas of specialty include: developing communication strategies focused on improving relationships in step-families/blended families, and for individuals and couples. Additional areas of treatment include: counseling divorce/separation and break-up issues, infidelity, restructuring life following a loss, catastrophic event, managing cancer survivorship and developing coping strategies following life transitions (loss of job/graduating from college), supportive treatment for infertility struggles, as well as, treatment for anxiety, depression, and stress. My extensive nursing background, coupled with my Masters Degree therapy training and experience, have given me a deeper depth of empathy and understanding of life's challenges.
(610) 850-9542 View (610) 850-9542
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.