Photo of Morgan Rakay, Counselor in Pennsylvania
Morgan Rakay
Counselor, MA, LPC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19128
I often view my work as supporting bodies in transition - in whatever form that comes. Many of my clients are those with medical illness or injury, caregivers, mothers, or trauma survivors who are faced with the impact that change in their physical self has on their mental and emotional well-being. Clients often wish to explore the mind-body connection, integrate non-verbal approaches, or find a new perspective on therapy. I also work with infants and children who deserve the same compassionate care, but don't benefit from verbal therapy in the same way.
I often view my work as supporting bodies in transition - in whatever form that comes. Many of my clients are those with medical illness or injury, caregivers, mothers, or trauma survivors who are faced with the impact that change in their physical self has on their mental and emotional well-being. Clients often wish to explore the mind-body connection, integrate non-verbal approaches, or find a new perspective on therapy. I also work with infants and children who deserve the same compassionate care, but don't benefit from verbal therapy in the same way.
(215) 273-9476 View (215) 273-9476
Photo of Tiffany Griffiths, Psy.D. & Associates, Inc., Psychologist in Pennsylvania
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 Kathryn Eberle Cotter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pennsylvania
Kathryn Eberle Cotter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMT, MT-BC, MFT
Verified Verified
Butler, PA 16002
My goal as a therapist is to engage authentically, share honestly, and think openly. I have been fortunate to work with people in end of life care, chronic illness, grief and loss, incarceration, addiction, autism, depression, anxiety, trauma, and have spent most of my career supporting youth and families through a variety of life stages and challenges. I provide opportunities for people to engage in experiences that will expand their understanding, explore their circumstances, and develop resources for their unique journey.
My goal as a therapist is to engage authentically, share honestly, and think openly. I have been fortunate to work with people in end of life care, chronic illness, grief and loss, incarceration, addiction, autism, depression, anxiety, trauma, and have spent most of my career supporting youth and families through a variety of life stages and challenges. I provide opportunities for people to engage in experiences that will expand their understanding, explore their circumstances, and develop resources for their unique journey.
(724) 200-8560 View (724) 200-8560
Photo of Danielle Carlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Danielle Carlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Erie, PA 16501  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with families in the medical setting as well as individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, living with or being affected by someone living with a chronic/terminal illness, grief & loss and difficult relationship dynamics.
Through my experience working with various populations, all going through some of life’s greatest pains, I aim to provide a safe space for my clients. A safe space where they can explore the complexities of their pasts, the melting pot of their emotions, and the truths of their realities. By utilizing mediation and grounding techniques, we uncover what the authentic self means to each individual and journey towards achieving that in daily life.
I have extensive experience working with families in the medical setting as well as individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, living with or being affected by someone living with a chronic/terminal illness, grief & loss and difficult relationship dynamics.
Through my experience working with various populations, all going through some of life’s greatest pains, I aim to provide a safe space for my clients. A safe space where they can explore the complexities of their pasts, the melting pot of their emotions, and the truths of their realities. By utilizing mediation and grounding techniques, we uncover what the authentic self means to each individual and journey towards achieving that in daily life.
(814) 527-2516 View (814) 527-2516
Photo of Tari Lyn Getz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Tari Lyn Getz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333
I also offer counseling for mood and personality disorders, grief and loss, separation/divorce and blended families, as well as for medically based diagnoses, such as ADHD, fibromyalgia, and dementia.
I began my career as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) later in life, and I have great passion for the work I do with my clients. I have 10+ years of experience as a therapist for children/teens, adults, and families. I have worked in out-patient, school-based, in-home, and community settings. With younger children and parents, I often employ the principles of Parent-Child Interactive Therapy, focusing on child-directed and parent-directed play. For family therapy, I use a relational approach that is based on positive communication, mutual respect, and active listening skills. I enjoy collaborating with clients on goals.
I also offer counseling for mood and personality disorders, grief and loss, separation/divorce and blended families, as well as for medically based diagnoses, such as ADHD, fibromyalgia, and dementia.
I began my career as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) later in life, and I have great passion for the work I do with my clients. I have 10+ years of experience as a therapist for children/teens, adults, and families. I have worked in out-patient, school-based, in-home, and community settings. With younger children and parents, I often employ the principles of Parent-Child Interactive Therapy, focusing on child-directed and parent-directed play. For family therapy, I use a relational approach that is based on positive communication, mutual respect, and active listening skills. I enjoy collaborating with clients on goals.
(610) 463-0619 View (610) 463-0619
Photo of Katherine M Schneider, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
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 Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
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 Thaxton Wellness Center & Counseling Solutions, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Thaxton Wellness Center & Counseling Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forty Fort, PA 18704
You can reach us at 570-904-7363 and get to know our therapists at thaxtonholisticwellness.com. At THWC it is our mission to create a soothing, client-focused, healing-centered environment, committed and focused on you as a whole person. With over 75 years of combined experience, our skilled and compassionate therapists offer virtual and in-person individual, couple, family, and group counseling services for all ages and concerns. Supported by years of experience and training, we will work with you to develop specific, tailored strategies, using effective approaches to help you quickly achieve and sustain results.
You can reach us at 570-904-7363 and get to know our therapists at thaxtonholisticwellness.com. At THWC it is our mission to create a soothing, client-focused, healing-centered environment, committed and focused on you as a whole person. With over 75 years of combined experience, our skilled and compassionate therapists offer virtual and in-person individual, couple, family, and group counseling services for all ages and concerns. Supported by years of experience and training, we will work with you to develop specific, tailored strategies, using effective approaches to help you quickly achieve and sustain results.
(272) 200-4675 View (272) 200-4675
Photo of Melissa Smiley Jacobson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Melissa Smiley Jacobson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
If you’re looking for a therapist, you're ready for something in your life to change. Are you tired of trying to figure things out on your own? Are you struggling with your important relationships? Do the people you usually turn to for guidance no longer seem to know how to help? Whatever brought you to this point, your regular ways of making yourself feel better are no longer enough to restore your peace of mind. You don’t need to deal with all of that alone.
If you’re looking for a therapist, you're ready for something in your life to change. Are you tired of trying to figure things out on your own? Are you struggling with your important relationships? Do the people you usually turn to for guidance no longer seem to know how to help? Whatever brought you to this point, your regular ways of making yourself feel better are no longer enough to restore your peace of mind. You don’t need to deal with all of that alone.
(878) 203-1823 View (878) 203-1823
Photo of Heather Hoeke Abbruzzese, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Heather Hoeke Abbruzzese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Are you feeling overwhelmed or frustrated with the demands being placed on you? Are you struggling with a disturbing event that is making it hard for you to live in the present? Are you ready to make meaningful change in your life? At times, we need a little extra support and guidance to get through the challenging seasons of our lives. I want to help you work through the difficult moments and to find the strength within to heal and to find peace. I offer a calm, supportive space without judgement where you can share your story, improve your ability to cope in the present, and set goals for the future.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or frustrated with the demands being placed on you? Are you struggling with a disturbing event that is making it hard for you to live in the present? Are you ready to make meaningful change in your life? At times, we need a little extra support and guidance to get through the challenging seasons of our lives. I want to help you work through the difficult moments and to find the strength within to heal and to find peace. I offer a calm, supportive space without judgement where you can share your story, improve your ability to cope in the present, and set goals for the future.
(878) 205-0616 View (878) 205-0616
Photo of Iris Abreu, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
Iris Abreu
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult. Why go through it all alone? Are you struggling to find love and connection? Perhaps you are looking improve the relationship(s) you already have in your life - be it with with family, friends, significant others, and/or at work? Or, looking to let go of relationship(s) or patterns of relating to others that may be ineffective? Are you facing struggles related to intersections of your identity? Trying to find, or land that job that you are looking for? Feeling lost about how to hone in your personal strengths in order to live your best life? Let's talk about ways I could help.
Life can be difficult. Why go through it all alone? Are you struggling to find love and connection? Perhaps you are looking improve the relationship(s) you already have in your life - be it with with family, friends, significant others, and/or at work? Or, looking to let go of relationship(s) or patterns of relating to others that may be ineffective? Are you facing struggles related to intersections of your identity? Trying to find, or land that job that you are looking for? Feeling lost about how to hone in your personal strengths in order to live your best life? Let's talk about ways I could help.
(215) 330-2167 View (215) 330-2167
Photo of Steven Lamar Johnson in Pennsylvania
Steven Lamar Johnson
LSW, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17111
Do you continue to fall short of your goals? Is the trauma you experienced preventing you from reaching your fullest potential? Do you suffer from social anxiety? depression? anger issues? ADHD? bipolar in adults? substance abuse? relationship issues, co-parenting? Etc... I have worked tirelessly for over 20 years helping families overcome their mental health issues and I would be honored to do the same for you.
Do you continue to fall short of your goals? Is the trauma you experienced preventing you from reaching your fullest potential? Do you suffer from social anxiety? depression? anger issues? ADHD? bipolar in adults? substance abuse? relationship issues, co-parenting? Etc... I have worked tirelessly for over 20 years helping families overcome their mental health issues and I would be honored to do the same for you.
(717) 773-4485 View (717) 773-4485
Photo of Deborah Ann DePolo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Deborah Ann DePolo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pottstown, PA 19465
Are you looking for someone to guide, support, and assist you in your life's journey? If so, I'm the therapist you've been looking for! I'm passionate about helping and I see counseling as an opportunity for us to work together on overcoming obstacles to help you reach your goals. I specialize in several different treatment modalities and tend to use a combination of techniques to match your unique wants and needs. Please email deb@compasscounselingandassociates.com to schedule an initial consultation.
Are you looking for someone to guide, support, and assist you in your life's journey? If so, I'm the therapist you've been looking for! I'm passionate about helping and I see counseling as an opportunity for us to work together on overcoming obstacles to help you reach your goals. I specialize in several different treatment modalities and tend to use a combination of techniques to match your unique wants and needs. Please email deb@compasscounselingandassociates.com to schedule an initial consultation.
(215) 260-3748 View (215) 260-3748
Photo of Tracy E Hill PhD & Associates LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Tracy E Hill PhD & Associates LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PMHNP, LPC, PhD, LCSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Tracy E. Hill PhD & Associates LLC has a variety of clinicians to choose from. Whether you want virtual (NY residents) or in person; we have clinicians who are licensed in Connecticut, Colorado, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. We offer both virtual and in person sessions. We have a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner, licensed social workers and licensed professional counselors along with Ph.D.s. Our team of dedicated professional clinicians can help you figure life out when life becomes complicated.
Tracy E. Hill PhD & Associates LLC has a variety of clinicians to choose from. Whether you want virtual (NY residents) or in person; we have clinicians who are licensed in Connecticut, Colorado, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. We offer both virtual and in person sessions. We have a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner, licensed social workers and licensed professional counselors along with Ph.D.s. Our team of dedicated professional clinicians can help you figure life out when life becomes complicated.
(484) 873-4187 View (484) 873-4187
Photo of Kayla Harris, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pennsylvania
Kayla Harris
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
Health is Wealth! Mental clarity and peace are among the greatest values and gifts we can offer ourselves. We can explore areas in your life where you feel like you can grow in, while safely navigating through the traumatic experiences and challenges that have caused cracks in your foundation. This is your time to reclaim your narrative and write the story you want for yourself! I believe in the resilience that exists within all of us and the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. I am dedicated to understanding my clients' unique and multi-faceted identities and experiences as well as cultivating their strengths.
Health is Wealth! Mental clarity and peace are among the greatest values and gifts we can offer ourselves. We can explore areas in your life where you feel like you can grow in, while safely navigating through the traumatic experiences and challenges that have caused cracks in your foundation. This is your time to reclaim your narrative and write the story you want for yourself! I believe in the resilience that exists within all of us and the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. I am dedicated to understanding my clients' unique and multi-faceted identities and experiences as well as cultivating their strengths.
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Photo of Carrie Powell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pennsylvania
Carrie Powell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, EAT, Reiki
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144
We have the capacity to express ourselves beyond just talking about our experiences and feelings. It is in our innate nature to access other ways of processing that utilizes art as a language. Cambridge Dictionary defines "art"- a noun synonymous with expression, as: "the making of objects, images, music, etc. that are beautiful or that express feelings". Still Emerging Expressive Arts Therapy offers an unconventional approach to therapeutic work, utilizing various forms of expression, including: visual art, movement, writing and sound. No skill is necessary, just a deep longing and desire to express yourself free of judgment.
We have the capacity to express ourselves beyond just talking about our experiences and feelings. It is in our innate nature to access other ways of processing that utilizes art as a language. Cambridge Dictionary defines "art"- a noun synonymous with expression, as: "the making of objects, images, music, etc. that are beautiful or that express feelings". Still Emerging Expressive Arts Therapy offers an unconventional approach to therapeutic work, utilizing various forms of expression, including: visual art, movement, writing and sound. No skill is necessary, just a deep longing and desire to express yourself free of judgment.
(215) 883-4280 View (215) 883-4280
Photo of Melissa A Tatar-Pickersgill, Counselor in Pennsylvania
Melissa A Tatar-Pickersgill
Counselor, MS, NCC, BSP, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morrisville, PA 19067
As a trauma-informed counselor, I clinically treat the client's symptoms with a talk-and-body therapeutic approach. I teach my clients coping strategies that are tweaked to be adaptive to the ASD/ADHD child/adult's neurodiversity in addition to the neurotypical populations' symptoms/sensory intrusions that are known or unknown reason(s) for the client's behavior(s) like anxiety mismanagement or a spontaneous violent outburst that at any age often do self-sabotage one's hoped for a good outcome(s).
As a trauma-informed counselor, I clinically treat the client's symptoms with a talk-and-body therapeutic approach. I teach my clients coping strategies that are tweaked to be adaptive to the ASD/ADHD child/adult's neurodiversity in addition to the neurotypical populations' symptoms/sensory intrusions that are known or unknown reason(s) for the client's behavior(s) like anxiety mismanagement or a spontaneous violent outburst that at any age often do self-sabotage one's hoped for a good outcome(s).
(267) 797-5029 View (267) 797-5029
Photo of Dr. Cydney V. Quinn in Pennsylvania
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn
PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn is a doctoral-level psychologist who conducts neuropsychological and psychological evaluations. Dr. Quinn has over 10 years of experience in the field supporting clients with concerns related to ADHD, specific learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mood disorders (e.g., bipolar, depression, anxiety), behavioral disorders (e.g., conduct, ODD, DMDD), personality disorders (e.g., borderline, etc), trauma, and other diagnoses such as memory concerns, eating disorders, and OCD. She works with the individuals who are between 2 years and 65 years old
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn is a doctoral-level psychologist who conducts neuropsychological and psychological evaluations. Dr. Quinn has over 10 years of experience in the field supporting clients with concerns related to ADHD, specific learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mood disorders (e.g., bipolar, depression, anxiety), behavioral disorders (e.g., conduct, ODD, DMDD), personality disorders (e.g., borderline, etc), trauma, and other diagnoses such as memory concerns, eating disorders, and OCD. She works with the individuals who are between 2 years and 65 years old
(412) 447-5306 View (412) 447-5306
Photo of Evergreen Counseling and Psychological Associates, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
Evergreen Counseling and Psychological Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Waitlist for new clients
We welcome you to Evergreen! We are a private practice group of compassionate and skilled Clinical Psychologists, Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Professional Counselors in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia. We understand it's not easy to open up to someone you don't know, but we strive to make your experience as easy and comfortable as possible. We are here to support you, to help develop workable solutions, and to improve overall health and well-being. We know that change and happiness are possible. You don't have to struggle; help is available. Our office staff are here and want to hear from you.
We welcome you to Evergreen! We are a private practice group of compassionate and skilled Clinical Psychologists, Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Professional Counselors in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia. We understand it's not easy to open up to someone you don't know, but we strive to make your experience as easy and comfortable as possible. We are here to support you, to help develop workable solutions, and to improve overall health and well-being. We know that change and happiness are possible. You don't have to struggle; help is available. Our office staff are here and want to hear from you.
(215) 392-6685 View (215) 392-6685
Photo of Robert J Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Robert J Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Having extensive experience, I use empirically supported therapies, and have treated a wide range of ages as well as the most serious disorders. It is my belief that salient therapy treats a client in 3 different directions: top-down (spiritual dimension), inside out (healing of memories), and outside-in (Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). After a thorough assessment, I would identify with my client, determine problems on which to work, set appropriate goals, and determine the correct therapeutic intervention(s) to be used. Meeting those goals would be a therapeutic benchmark throughout the therapy.
Having extensive experience, I use empirically supported therapies, and have treated a wide range of ages as well as the most serious disorders. It is my belief that salient therapy treats a client in 3 different directions: top-down (spiritual dimension), inside out (healing of memories), and outside-in (Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). After a thorough assessment, I would identify with my client, determine problems on which to work, set appropriate goals, and determine the correct therapeutic intervention(s) to be used. Meeting those goals would be a therapeutic benchmark throughout the therapy.
(215) 642-0949 View (215) 642-0949

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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.