Chronic Pain Therapists in Nashville, TN

Photo of Dr. Tyler Toledo, Psychologist in Nashville, TN
Dr. Tyler Toledo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37221  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
With specialized expertise in helping folks with trauma, depression, anxiety, and chronic illness, I understand that finding a therapist that fits YOUR needs can be an exhausting process. In my therapy practice, we're not just talking about your experiences – we'll explore your personal story, inner compass, and innate strengths to guide us toward rediscovered meaning and direction. If what I offer doesn't quite click for you, we'll figure out together what might work better. Because no matter what, you deserve care that feels right for you.
With specialized expertise in helping folks with trauma, depression, anxiety, and chronic illness, I understand that finding a therapist that fits YOUR needs can be an exhausting process. In my therapy practice, we're not just talking about your experiences – we'll explore your personal story, inner compass, and innate strengths to guide us toward rediscovered meaning and direction. If what I offer doesn't quite click for you, we'll figure out together what might work better. Because no matter what, you deserve care that feels right for you.
(615) 576-8097 View (615) 576-8097
Photo of Aaron M Free, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Aaron M Free
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LMSW, CTP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37228  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of trauma, dissociation, and chronic pain.
Are you exhausted from the relentless grip of chronic aches, pains, or the weight of trauma and dissociation? Do you want to get back to enjoying the things you used to? Are you looking to work with someone who understands your LGBTQ+ identity? If you're here, you've already taken the first step towards finding relief and reclaiming control over your life. I am dedicated to fostering a collaborative relationship focused on setting goals, tracking progress, and facilitating healing. Beyond our therapy sessions, my commitment extends to actively researching resources, interventions, and personalized solutions to fit your needs.
I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of trauma, dissociation, and chronic pain.
Are you exhausted from the relentless grip of chronic aches, pains, or the weight of trauma and dissociation? Do you want to get back to enjoying the things you used to? Are you looking to work with someone who understands your LGBTQ+ identity? If you're here, you've already taken the first step towards finding relief and reclaiming control over your life. I am dedicated to fostering a collaborative relationship focused on setting goals, tracking progress, and facilitating healing. Beyond our therapy sessions, my commitment extends to actively researching resources, interventions, and personalized solutions to fit your needs.
(865) 327-2011 View (865) 327-2011
Photo of Jenna Cummings, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Jenna Cummings
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
If you’re struggling with depression anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, chronic illness/disability taking the first step in therapy is intimidating but I will work hard to make this first step as comfortable as possible. I have a passion for working with individuals with Chronic Illness/Chronic Pain/Disability, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions. I believe that true healing happens when the entire person is cared for (mind and body) which informs my integrative approach to therapy.
If you’re struggling with depression anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, chronic illness/disability taking the first step in therapy is intimidating but I will work hard to make this first step as comfortable as possible. I have a passion for working with individuals with Chronic Illness/Chronic Pain/Disability, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions. I believe that true healing happens when the entire person is cared for (mind and body) which informs my integrative approach to therapy.
(615) 551-7361 View (615) 551-7361
Photo of Amber Kowing Hayzlett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Amber Kowing Hayzlett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37207
I help men, women, and LGBTQIA+ adults explore who they are and who they want to be. I deeply enjoy working with those who have experienced complex relational or religious/spiritual trauma, those who live with chronic pain or illnesses, and those (yes, you) high-achieving, perfectionists, creatives & professionals. Whether you're coming to therapy for the first time or the tenth time, my goal is that you are able to leave our sessions encouraged, equipped, and more compassionate towards yourself and others.
I help men, women, and LGBTQIA+ adults explore who they are and who they want to be. I deeply enjoy working with those who have experienced complex relational or religious/spiritual trauma, those who live with chronic pain or illnesses, and those (yes, you) high-achieving, perfectionists, creatives & professionals. Whether you're coming to therapy for the first time or the tenth time, my goal is that you are able to leave our sessions encouraged, equipped, and more compassionate towards yourself and others.
(615) 434-9115 View (615) 434-9115
Photo of Jennifer K. Knowles, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Jennifer K. Knowles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHSP, (temp)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
Waitlist for new clients
While I work with all types of clients, I have special training in chronic pain and illness, complex trauma, complicated grief, and end-of-life counseling.
I work with clients from all walks of life and with a variety of concerns and lived experiences. My approach to therapy is through a polyvagal-informed, body-based lens incorporating therapeutic modalities designed to attend to biological systems as well as core thoughts, beliefs, and emotions. Clients who are interested in achieving a better understanding of the body/brain connection and who would like to address chronic pain, tension, and trauma in the body will find help here. My goal is to restore ease and empower you to connect with your own innate healing abilities.
While I work with all types of clients, I have special training in chronic pain and illness, complex trauma, complicated grief, and end-of-life counseling.
I work with clients from all walks of life and with a variety of concerns and lived experiences. My approach to therapy is through a polyvagal-informed, body-based lens incorporating therapeutic modalities designed to attend to biological systems as well as core thoughts, beliefs, and emotions. Clients who are interested in achieving a better understanding of the body/brain connection and who would like to address chronic pain, tension, and trauma in the body will find help here. My goal is to restore ease and empower you to connect with your own innate healing abilities.
(629) 205-9519 View (629) 205-9519
Photo of Katie Casey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Katie Casey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MA
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
The pain that comes from things like PTSD and secondary trauma, anxiety, and chronic pain/illness can be so heavy.
Therapy is all about healing. Healing from the past, old wounds, thoughts or feelings that aren't serving you anymore. So often, we have learned various ways of living to get through the days, to cope, but it's surviving and not truly living. For most, facing those things seems scary and that fear keeps them from living the life they want. I see my role as a therapist is to foster a space of safety so healing can occur. Through compassion, honesty, and ultimately connection, I work with my clients to help them move towards their best selves.
The pain that comes from things like PTSD and secondary trauma, anxiety, and chronic pain/illness can be so heavy.
Therapy is all about healing. Healing from the past, old wounds, thoughts or feelings that aren't serving you anymore. So often, we have learned various ways of living to get through the days, to cope, but it's surviving and not truly living. For most, facing those things seems scary and that fear keeps them from living the life they want. I see my role as a therapist is to foster a space of safety so healing can occur. Through compassion, honesty, and ultimately connection, I work with my clients to help them move towards their best selves.
(615) 258-6935 View (615) 258-6935
Photo of Megan Hay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Megan Hay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37201  (Online Only)
Hello there, my name is Megan. Feel free to grab a chair and let's talk! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW) with over 15 years of experience. As a dedicated chronic illness mental health therapist, I am committed to guiding individuals through the unique challenges that arise when navigating the complexities of both physical health and mental well-being. In this therapeutic space, we embark on a collaborative exploration, fostering a profound understanding of the intricate relationship between chronic illness and its impact on mental health.
Hello there, my name is Megan. Feel free to grab a chair and let's talk! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW) with over 15 years of experience. As a dedicated chronic illness mental health therapist, I am committed to guiding individuals through the unique challenges that arise when navigating the complexities of both physical health and mental well-being. In this therapeutic space, we embark on a collaborative exploration, fostering a profound understanding of the intricate relationship between chronic illness and its impact on mental health.
(931) 535-5229 View (931) 535-5229
Photo of Carly Abel, Counselor in Nashville, TN
Carly Abel
Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
I utilize approaches and techniques with strong research support to help clients process trauma; cope with &/or resolve chronic pain issues; learn to relate more effectively to emotions & in relationships; increase resilience & decrease burnout; develop skills & tools to decrease or resolve symptoms of depression & anxiety; & increase health & well-being.
My passion is to support individuals on a journey for deep healing of mind, body, & spirit; helping those recovering from trauma, anxiety, depression, relational conflict, abuse, stress, chronic pain & illness to find more joy, peace, empowerment, balance, purpose, and connection in their lives & relationships. If you are looking for a compassionate, direct, trauma-informed therapist who loves to get to the root of issues & equip clients with the tools they can use to thrive, who helps clients connect with their own inner resources for healing, growth & vitality, I may be a great fit for you.
I utilize approaches and techniques with strong research support to help clients process trauma; cope with &/or resolve chronic pain issues; learn to relate more effectively to emotions & in relationships; increase resilience & decrease burnout; develop skills & tools to decrease or resolve symptoms of depression & anxiety; & increase health & well-being.
My passion is to support individuals on a journey for deep healing of mind, body, & spirit; helping those recovering from trauma, anxiety, depression, relational conflict, abuse, stress, chronic pain & illness to find more joy, peace, empowerment, balance, purpose, and connection in their lives & relationships. If you are looking for a compassionate, direct, trauma-informed therapist who loves to get to the root of issues & equip clients with the tools they can use to thrive, who helps clients connect with their own inner resources for healing, growth & vitality, I may be a great fit for you.
(832) 734-9720 View (832) 734-9720
Photo of Abby Graham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Abby Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Hi, I’m Abby. I help people find ways of moving through pain more effectively and wholeheartedly. Experience working with psychiatric crises and severe & persistent mental illness taught me that presence and connection are possible amid deep emotional pain and the human capacity for meaningful change is remarkable. “You know that the antidote to exhaustion is not necessarily rest? … The antidote to exhaustion is wholeheartedness.” - David Whyte
Hi, I’m Abby. I help people find ways of moving through pain more effectively and wholeheartedly. Experience working with psychiatric crises and severe & persistent mental illness taught me that presence and connection are possible amid deep emotional pain and the human capacity for meaningful change is remarkable. “You know that the antidote to exhaustion is not necessarily rest? … The antidote to exhaustion is wholeheartedness.” - David Whyte
(615) 808-8945 View (615) 808-8945
Photo of Sara Jane Tinker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Sara Jane Tinker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, SEP®
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37201  (Online Only)
I'm a Somatic Experiencing Trauma Therapist specializing in the Whole Person: Mind, Body, and Spirit when assisting in the healing journey. I can help with very specific needs such as recovering from the stress or trauma of an accident, illness, assault, chronic pain & stress disorders, loss of loved one, infidelity, or relationship breakup; easing specific symptoms such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, PTSD & Complex Trauma,or addictive behaviors. I work with personality disorders and mood disorders such as Schizoaffective, Bipolar, as well as dissociative disorders.
I'm a Somatic Experiencing Trauma Therapist specializing in the Whole Person: Mind, Body, and Spirit when assisting in the healing journey. I can help with very specific needs such as recovering from the stress or trauma of an accident, illness, assault, chronic pain & stress disorders, loss of loved one, infidelity, or relationship breakup; easing specific symptoms such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, PTSD & Complex Trauma,or addictive behaviors. I work with personality disorders and mood disorders such as Schizoaffective, Bipolar, as well as dissociative disorders.
(615) 488-6131 View (615) 488-6131
Photo of Dawn Ducote, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Dawn Ducote
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
Therapy can help you move through the pain and stress to the future you desire.
Therapy should be a safe place for you to work on goals, gain skills to better deal with life challenges, and/or to take back your life from the effects of trauma, depression, or anxiety. I customize my style for each individual and use evidence-based interventions to help you reach your goals. We can work together to help you find understanding, and catalyze growth and healing. I worked in the corporate world for 10+ years, and understand the struggles of managing a team, proving your worth, and finding time and ways to care for your soul.
Therapy can help you move through the pain and stress to the future you desire.
Therapy should be a safe place for you to work on goals, gain skills to better deal with life challenges, and/or to take back your life from the effects of trauma, depression, or anxiety. I customize my style for each individual and use evidence-based interventions to help you reach your goals. We can work together to help you find understanding, and catalyze growth and healing. I worked in the corporate world for 10+ years, and understand the struggles of managing a team, proving your worth, and finding time and ways to care for your soul.
(615) 541-4698 View (615) 541-4698
Photo of Leslie Ann Binch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Leslie Ann Binch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
Talk therapy is not enough. My approach to therapy focuses on combining cognitive and somatic therapies to strengthen connection to self, and reduce the blocks to healing. The goal is to connect to your authenticity, and have the freedom to find positive and affirming ways to enjoy relationships with self and others. The goal is to experience life without shutting down or disconnecting, and/or using destructive behaviors to reduce pain and distress. Attaining the freedom to choose what you want for yourself, begins with taking the first step.
Talk therapy is not enough. My approach to therapy focuses on combining cognitive and somatic therapies to strengthen connection to self, and reduce the blocks to healing. The goal is to connect to your authenticity, and have the freedom to find positive and affirming ways to enjoy relationships with self and others. The goal is to experience life without shutting down or disconnecting, and/or using destructive behaviors to reduce pain and distress. Attaining the freedom to choose what you want for yourself, begins with taking the first step.
(615) 274-4233 View (615) 274-4233
Photo of Kitti L Virts, Psychologist in Nashville, TN
Kitti L Virts
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205  (Online Only)
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, mood, stress & trauma-related disorders, eating disorders, chronic pain/medical illnesses, weight issues, and interpersonal problems.
Ideal clients are individuals who may struggle to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, or life in general, feel stuck in recurrent problematic behavioral or relationship patterns, and want to improve their life and feel at peace. We all have an innate ability to grow and heal. My primary job as a therapist is to help clients tap into that healing process and reconnect with and strengthen their natural resources, talents, and spirit so that they can become the person they want and were created to be.
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, mood, stress & trauma-related disorders, eating disorders, chronic pain/medical illnesses, weight issues, and interpersonal problems.
Ideal clients are individuals who may struggle to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, or life in general, feel stuck in recurrent problematic behavioral or relationship patterns, and want to improve their life and feel at peace. We all have an innate ability to grow and heal. My primary job as a therapist is to help clients tap into that healing process and reconnect with and strengthen their natural resources, talents, and spirit so that they can become the person they want and were created to be.
(615) 442-7109 View (615) 442-7109
Photo of Sarah Fisher, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Nashville, TN
Sarah Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, TLMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
Some specific problems I treat include living with chronic illness and pain, trauma, anxiety, depression, self esteem and identity, life transitions, and relationship issues (whether they be intimate, familial, platonic, or professional).
Hi there! How are you doing? I mean, truly: how are you doing? I want to hear about your health, your interests, your relationships, your worries, your joys, and your sorrows. I want to hold space for all the things you really want to say when you reply, “I’m fine, how are you?” Whether you seek therapy for a specific problem or you just want a pocket of time to untangle some thoughts/feelings/experiences, you are welcome here.
Some specific problems I treat include living with chronic illness and pain, trauma, anxiety, depression, self esteem and identity, life transitions, and relationship issues (whether they be intimate, familial, platonic, or professional).
Hi there! How are you doing? I mean, truly: how are you doing? I want to hear about your health, your interests, your relationships, your worries, your joys, and your sorrows. I want to hold space for all the things you really want to say when you reply, “I’m fine, how are you?” Whether you seek therapy for a specific problem or you just want a pocket of time to untangle some thoughts/feelings/experiences, you are welcome here.
(615) 882-4236 View (615) 882-4236
Photo of David Pearl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
David Pearl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
Prior experience includes counseling patients with chronic illness, and psychotherapy with individuals & couples in an outpatient mental health center and in private practice.
People's lives are full of change, transitions and evolving relationships. It is natural to feel ungrounded or stressed during these transitions. Whether you are depressed, anxious, or experiencing challenges in your relationships, my aim is to provide a safe and supportive environment to facilitate exploration and strengthen self esteem and relationships with family, friends or professional colleagues. My approach as a psychotherapist is non-judgmental, value-based, and practical. I am an active therapist who is dedicated to helping people live their best lives.
Prior experience includes counseling patients with chronic illness, and psychotherapy with individuals & couples in an outpatient mental health center and in private practice.
People's lives are full of change, transitions and evolving relationships. It is natural to feel ungrounded or stressed during these transitions. Whether you are depressed, anxious, or experiencing challenges in your relationships, my aim is to provide a safe and supportive environment to facilitate exploration and strengthen self esteem and relationships with family, friends or professional colleagues. My approach as a psychotherapist is non-judgmental, value-based, and practical. I am an active therapist who is dedicated to helping people live their best lives.
(615) 697-4750 View (615) 697-4750
Photo of Helen Tarleton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Helen Tarleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, Ed, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
I help my clients with issues such as life transitions; anxiety; depression; grief; trauma; phobias; chronic illness; sexual assault and adoption.
I have 30+ years of experience helping adults, adolescents, and couples overcome challenges, heal from painful experiences, repair relationships, and ultimately thrive. I bring thoughtfulness, curiosity, and respect to each interaction with my clients, as I deeply understand the importance of a compassionate therapeutic relationship for successful outcomes in therapy.
I help my clients with issues such as life transitions; anxiety; depression; grief; trauma; phobias; chronic illness; sexual assault and adoption.
I have 30+ years of experience helping adults, adolescents, and couples overcome challenges, heal from painful experiences, repair relationships, and ultimately thrive. I bring thoughtfulness, curiosity, and respect to each interaction with my clients, as I deeply understand the importance of a compassionate therapeutic relationship for successful outcomes in therapy.
(615) 784-5788 View (615) 784-5788
Photo of Campbell Hopkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Campbell Hopkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
Whether you’re in a season of transition or pain, you want to more fully explore your story, or you desire a deeper connection with your inner world, I’d be honored to join you.
Two values I strive for in the therapy room are understanding and security. When you walk through my door, I want you to feel the kind of safety that allows you to get cozy on the sofa and take a deep breath before diving into what matters most to you. Throughout the process, my hope is that all parts of you - those you love and know well and those that you struggle with or push away in your daily life - feel welcome, seen, appreciated, and understood. My clients are primarily adult individuals who hope to find healing and connection within themselves and with others.
Whether you’re in a season of transition or pain, you want to more fully explore your story, or you desire a deeper connection with your inner world, I’d be honored to join you.
Two values I strive for in the therapy room are understanding and security. When you walk through my door, I want you to feel the kind of safety that allows you to get cozy on the sofa and take a deep breath before diving into what matters most to you. Throughout the process, my hope is that all parts of you - those you love and know well and those that you struggle with or push away in your daily life - feel welcome, seen, appreciated, and understood. My clients are primarily adult individuals who hope to find healing and connection within themselves and with others.
(615) 471-6747 View (615) 471-6747
Photo of Kyra Rane Weyenberg, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Kyra Rane Weyenberg
Pre-Licensed Professional, TLMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Life feels burdensome. You struggle to keep up with its demands and changes, and often feel overwhelmed. Your relationships feel distressing and distant, and you’re not sure how to make this work anymore. You've experienced loss, and the pain is challenging to manage. It’s an endless cycle leaving you feeling stuck and alone. You want the joy to return, the chaos to quiet, and the darkness to lift. I believe there’s a way through pain and heartache. Let’s uncover hope and healing together.
Life feels burdensome. You struggle to keep up with its demands and changes, and often feel overwhelmed. Your relationships feel distressing and distant, and you’re not sure how to make this work anymore. You've experienced loss, and the pain is challenging to manage. It’s an endless cycle leaving you feeling stuck and alone. You want the joy to return, the chaos to quiet, and the darkness to lift. I believe there’s a way through pain and heartache. Let’s uncover hope and healing together.
(615) 558-8548 View (615) 558-8548
Photo of Doug Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Doug Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Your current pain and struggle need not define who you are.
I work with clients wanting to heal from all kinds of painful experiences and challenges in their lives. Often what brings someone into therapy, their current struggles, are symptoms of an underlying unresolved experience which has thrown life out of balance. Anxiety and depression, for example, frequently are a pattern of being stuck in a state of imbalance, following a significant loss, heartbreak or trauma. The goal of therapy is to restore the natural integrity and balance within clients, empowering them to lead creative and fulfilling lives.
Your current pain and struggle need not define who you are.
I work with clients wanting to heal from all kinds of painful experiences and challenges in their lives. Often what brings someone into therapy, their current struggles, are symptoms of an underlying unresolved experience which has thrown life out of balance. Anxiety and depression, for example, frequently are a pattern of being stuck in a state of imbalance, following a significant loss, heartbreak or trauma. The goal of therapy is to restore the natural integrity and balance within clients, empowering them to lead creative and fulfilling lives.
(615) 560-7675 View (615) 560-7675
Photo of Ellen Wilkins Counseling and Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Ellen Wilkins Counseling and Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Waitlist for new clients
My hope is for you to transform your pain, and find acceptance and peace to live life to the fullest!.
Are you struggling with a difficult, significant person in your life? Do you stuff your feelings, trying to keep the peace then, in frustration, overreact? I have a passion for healthy relationships and believe a strong, therapeutic relationship can provide the context for transformative healing & growth. I work well with people who feel stuck in the way they handle conflict-either avoiding it or repeating unhealthy patterns or behaviors. I can help you expand your awareness about how the past is effecting the present so you can respond to those you love without losing yourself.
My hope is for you to transform your pain, and find acceptance and peace to live life to the fullest!.
Are you struggling with a difficult, significant person in your life? Do you stuff your feelings, trying to keep the peace then, in frustration, overreact? I have a passion for healthy relationships and believe a strong, therapeutic relationship can provide the context for transformative healing & growth. I work well with people who feel stuck in the way they handle conflict-either avoiding it or repeating unhealthy patterns or behaviors. I can help you expand your awareness about how the past is effecting the present so you can respond to those you love without losing yourself.
(615) 203-8110 View (615) 203-8110
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.