Chronic Pain Therapists in Putnam County, TN

Photo of Kelsey MacDonald, EdS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelsey MacDonald
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cookeville, TN 38501
Alongside, I work with folks with chronic pain and illnesses as well as those who have experienced complex (multiple or ongoing painful events in the past), relational, or medical trauma.
Are you wondering if Brainspotting or EMDR is a right fit for you? Maybe you struggle with negative thoughts about yourself, feelings of embarrassment or self-consciousness, struggle with anxiety and overwhelm, and/or know there are painful life experiences in your past. These can be so painful and exhausting, and I'm here to help. I help clients get to the root of what they are feeling, manage uncomfortable feelings in their body, increase skills in navigating relationships with others, and heal their trauma for lasting change through mind and body based therapies like EMDR, IFS, and Brainspotting.
Alongside, I work with folks with chronic pain and illnesses as well as those who have experienced complex (multiple or ongoing painful events in the past), relational, or medical trauma.
Are you wondering if Brainspotting or EMDR is a right fit for you? Maybe you struggle with negative thoughts about yourself, feelings of embarrassment or self-consciousness, struggle with anxiety and overwhelm, and/or know there are painful life experiences in your past. These can be so painful and exhausting, and I'm here to help. I help clients get to the root of what they are feeling, manage uncomfortable feelings in their body, increase skills in navigating relationships with others, and heal their trauma for lasting change through mind and body based therapies like EMDR, IFS, and Brainspotting.
(615) 488-8276 View (615) 488-8276
Photo of Carole Lovell, PsyD, LCSW, NBCCH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carole Lovell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, NBCCH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cookeville, TN 38501
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy all of my clients and have 25 years experience treating most mental or emotional disorder. I work primarily with adults. I am Certified in DBT, EMDR, and Clinical Hypnosis and personality testing. I am an Approved consultant and trainer in EMDR in TN, AL, GA, TX, KY, TX, VA, NH and Washington D. C. , I have developed a protocol for treating shame which is a result of Complex PTSD and other traumatic events including addictions, depression , anxiety and chronic pain. I treat chronic pain, relationship issues, parent education life coaching, critical incidents grief and loss, and anger management,
I enjoy all of my clients and have 25 years experience treating most mental or emotional disorder. I work primarily with adults. I am Certified in DBT, EMDR, and Clinical Hypnosis and personality testing. I am an Approved consultant and trainer in EMDR in TN, AL, GA, TX, KY, TX, VA, NH and Washington D. C. , I have developed a protocol for treating shame which is a result of Complex PTSD and other traumatic events including addictions, depression , anxiety and chronic pain. I treat chronic pain, relationship issues, parent education life coaching, critical incidents grief and loss, and anger management,
(931) 246-4164 x200 View (931) 246-4164 x200
Photo of H. David Chaney, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Counselor
H. David Chaney
Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Cookeville, TN 38501
Waitlist for new clients
My approach begins with listening to your concerns and questions. Hearing your desires and goals about how you would like to respond to the adversities of life and then introducing you to concepts and strategies designed to help you respond to life's problems more effectively. My approach may include spiritual resources but I never impose my values and aim to be respectful of yours.
My approach begins with listening to your concerns and questions. Hearing your desires and goals about how you would like to respond to the adversities of life and then introducing you to concepts and strategies designed to help you respond to life's problems more effectively. My approach may include spiritual resources but I never impose my values and aim to be respectful of yours.
(931) 246-7065 View (931) 246-7065
Photo of Ajay James Rashe, LPC, MHSP, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ajay James Rashe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MA
Verified Verified
Cookeville, TN 38501  (Online Only)
“It’s only a passing thing this shadow. Even darkness must pass. A new day will come. And when the sun shines, it will shine out the clearer.” -J.R.R Tolkien. There are times in life where the road forward is unclear, and all you can do is take the first step. I want to create an open, affirming, and safe place for you to explore your path. There are going to be periods of struggle, loss, grief, joy, growth and celebration. Mental health work is not a destination but a journey created for and by you. I strongly believe in giving you the autonomy, dignity, and respect to make your own decision with a little guidance.
“It’s only a passing thing this shadow. Even darkness must pass. A new day will come. And when the sun shines, it will shine out the clearer.” -J.R.R Tolkien. There are times in life where the road forward is unclear, and all you can do is take the first step. I want to create an open, affirming, and safe place for you to explore your path. There are going to be periods of struggle, loss, grief, joy, growth and celebration. Mental health work is not a destination but a journey created for and by you. I strongly believe in giving you the autonomy, dignity, and respect to make your own decision with a little guidance.
(931) 271-5923 View (931) 271-5923
Photo of Kayla McElroy, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla McElroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baxter, TN 38544  (Online Only)
Exhausted. Overwhelmed. Depleted. Do you feel like the world is slowly closing in on you, as you attempt to process a recent loss, a life changing situation, or accumulating life transitions? Whether fresh or prolonged in time, it still feels raw and vulnerable, and it's hard to imagine a time without this. You feel isolated, and as if you can't relate to others around you. You crave normalcy during this time of chaos. You want to feel whole again. You want to feel understood and relatable to others. Most of all, you want the simplicity of life that you once had.
Exhausted. Overwhelmed. Depleted. Do you feel like the world is slowly closing in on you, as you attempt to process a recent loss, a life changing situation, or accumulating life transitions? Whether fresh or prolonged in time, it still feels raw and vulnerable, and it's hard to imagine a time without this. You feel isolated, and as if you can't relate to others around you. You crave normalcy during this time of chaos. You want to feel whole again. You want to feel understood and relatable to others. Most of all, you want the simplicity of life that you once had.
(931) 400-8748 View (931) 400-8748
Photo of Logan Miles, LPCMHSP, RYT-500, Licensed Professional Counselor
Logan Miles
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, RYT-500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cookeville, TN 38501  (Online Only)
I offer a nurturing, collaborative therapeutic environment, committed to bringing compassion and curiosity as you explore parts of yourself and share your experiences. Much of the distress and dysregulation we experience in life develops in relationships. Alternatively, with care and safety, the counseling relationship can be a space of healing and regulation. Incorporating mindfulness and acceptance practices, we allow space to explore and process your emotions, and to grow capacity for regulation in times of distress and overwhelm.
I offer a nurturing, collaborative therapeutic environment, committed to bringing compassion and curiosity as you explore parts of yourself and share your experiences. Much of the distress and dysregulation we experience in life develops in relationships. Alternatively, with care and safety, the counseling relationship can be a space of healing and regulation. Incorporating mindfulness and acceptance practices, we allow space to explore and process your emotions, and to grow capacity for regulation in times of distress and overwhelm.
(931) 535-5917 View (931) 535-5917
Photo of Lori Lee Staton, BS, MA, tempLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lori Lee Staton
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, MA, tempLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cookeville, TN 38501
Tired of holding so much inside? Everyone goes through tough times and needs a safe space to talk. My style of practice enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. I treat several mental health disorders and provide a peaceful & neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples. My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. This is achieved by providing a caring, safe space without judgment, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan that helps you reach your goals.
Tired of holding so much inside? Everyone goes through tough times and needs a safe space to talk. My style of practice enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. I treat several mental health disorders and provide a peaceful & neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples. My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. This is achieved by providing a caring, safe space without judgment, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan that helps you reach your goals.
(931) 208-6309 View (931) 208-6309
Photo of Daniel Simpkins - From The Ashes Therapeutic Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
From The Ashes Therapeutic Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Monterey, TN 38574  (Online Only)
Do you experience overwhelming feelings of anxiety or a depressed mood? Do you wrestle with low self-esteem or setting boundaries? Do you feel like your self-care practices are nonexistent? Are you struggling to find a way to deal with feelings of grief? It’s important that we choose to be healthier versions of ourselves and live authentically. I can give you the tools to achieve this outcome! My philosophy begins with the perspective that our thoughts control our feelings and our feelings control our actions. When we can change our thinking to be more adaptive, we can become the best versions of ourselves.
Do you experience overwhelming feelings of anxiety or a depressed mood? Do you wrestle with low self-esteem or setting boundaries? Do you feel like your self-care practices are nonexistent? Are you struggling to find a way to deal with feelings of grief? It’s important that we choose to be healthier versions of ourselves and live authentically. I can give you the tools to achieve this outcome! My philosophy begins with the perspective that our thoughts control our feelings and our feelings control our actions. When we can change our thinking to be more adaptive, we can become the best versions of ourselves.
(931) 271-5119 View (931) 271-5119
Photo of Carol Smith - Insight Counseling Centers, LMFT, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
Insight Counseling Centers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
Cookeville, TN 38501
We support you in finding the therapist who's right for you! We offer a safe place to address anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, premarital counseling, grief and loss, spiritual abuse, trauma, and stress, among other concerns. We serve individuals, couples, and families of all ages and from diverse backgrounds. Whether you have been struggling with a particular issue for years or you just want to try to make your life a little better, we are here to help.
We support you in finding the therapist who's right for you! We offer a safe place to address anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, premarital counseling, grief and loss, spiritual abuse, trauma, and stress, among other concerns. We serve individuals, couples, and families of all ages and from diverse backgrounds. Whether you have been struggling with a particular issue for years or you just want to try to make your life a little better, we are here to help.
(615) 994-7026 View (615) 994-7026
Photo of Kim Stroud Hendrick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Stroud Hendrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cookeville, TN 38501
I am grateful that you are considering counseling and viewing my personal page. I have over 26 years of clinical experience working with people that have felt like you may be feeling. Are you are feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, stressed, or unfulfilled? Does the joy of life seem hard to achieve? Are you just existing and not living? There is hope through the process of counseling. Life can at times feel difficult, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. You are not alone; together we can find solutions. I would love the opportunity to work with you. I look forward to helping you get your first appointment scheduled.
I am grateful that you are considering counseling and viewing my personal page. I have over 26 years of clinical experience working with people that have felt like you may be feeling. Are you are feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, stressed, or unfulfilled? Does the joy of life seem hard to achieve? Are you just existing and not living? There is hope through the process of counseling. Life can at times feel difficult, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. You are not alone; together we can find solutions. I would love the opportunity to work with you. I look forward to helping you get your first appointment scheduled.
(615) 819-5947 View (615) 819-5947
Photo of Catherine Virden, LPC, NCC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catherine Virden
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cookeville, TN 38501
I want to offer you more than traditional talk therapy, I want to offer you a space to find an inner connection with your mind, body, and soul through exploring emotions, sensations, dreams and the things left unspoken. Sometimes if we skip over our emotions, our bodies will express them through symptomology, and navigating immune sensitivities is complicated. My hope is that the therapy room becomes an experiential space where you hash out what it feels like to engage in safety, connection, resonating with another person. We can navigate this through somatic based EMDR, applied polyvagal, somatic experiencing. cantadorawellness.com
I want to offer you more than traditional talk therapy, I want to offer you a space to find an inner connection with your mind, body, and soul through exploring emotions, sensations, dreams and the things left unspoken. Sometimes if we skip over our emotions, our bodies will express them through symptomology, and navigating immune sensitivities is complicated. My hope is that the therapy room becomes an experiential space where you hash out what it feels like to engage in safety, connection, resonating with another person. We can navigate this through somatic based EMDR, applied polyvagal, somatic experiencing. cantadorawellness.com
(678) 842-3883 View (678) 842-3883
Photo of Charlotte Gibbs, LPCMHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlotte Gibbs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cookeville, TN 38501  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Reaching out for help is never easy, so taking that first step is brave and to be commended. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and walks of life. Maybe you need a listening ear and genuine support through life's ups and downs. Maybe you have specific goals you want to accomplish within counseling. Or maybe you are somewhere in between. No matter where you are, I will meet you there and we will walk through the counseling journey together. I have experience working with adolescents to adults as well as those struggling with grief, addiction, life adjustments, and first responders and their families.
Reaching out for help is never easy, so taking that first step is brave and to be commended. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and walks of life. Maybe you need a listening ear and genuine support through life's ups and downs. Maybe you have specific goals you want to accomplish within counseling. Or maybe you are somewhere in between. No matter where you are, I will meet you there and we will walk through the counseling journey together. I have experience working with adolescents to adults as well as those struggling with grief, addiction, life adjustments, and first responders and their families.
(615) 205-7584 View (615) 205-7584

Online Therapists

Photo of Alyssa Mielock, PhD, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Alyssa Mielock
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
I have worked with clients of all ages. I specialize in evidence-based practices which uses gold standard treatments to teach clients helpful skills in a timely manner. I have extensive training in trauma-focused treatments. I also have expertise working with a variety of difficulties, such as difficulty controlling emotion and attention, anger, anxiety, depression, mood swings, nightmares, panic attacks, serious mental illness, sleep problems, stress management, substance use, and relationship difficulties. There are many different approaches to therapy and I focus on individually creating the best treatment for each client.
I have worked with clients of all ages. I specialize in evidence-based practices which uses gold standard treatments to teach clients helpful skills in a timely manner. I have extensive training in trauma-focused treatments. I also have expertise working with a variety of difficulties, such as difficulty controlling emotion and attention, anger, anxiety, depression, mood swings, nightmares, panic attacks, serious mental illness, sleep problems, stress management, substance use, and relationship difficulties. There are many different approaches to therapy and I focus on individually creating the best treatment for each client.
(629) 229-9605 View (629) 229-9605
Photo of Rachael A Benson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachael A Benson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37419
As your awareness expands, you will be able to feel your pain and slowly let it go.
I am in the practice of helping people understand themselves and find pathways towards healing and success. Therefore, I have the honor of meeting you just as you are and seeing a glimpse of your inner world, what shaped you, and molded you into a complex individual and being. My desire is to understand where you have come from and where you would like to go. Through understanding we can begin the work of creating a path toward deeper reflection, healing and thriving.
As your awareness expands, you will be able to feel your pain and slowly let it go.
I am in the practice of helping people understand themselves and find pathways towards healing and success. Therefore, I have the honor of meeting you just as you are and seeing a glimpse of your inner world, what shaped you, and molded you into a complex individual and being. My desire is to understand where you have come from and where you would like to go. Through understanding we can begin the work of creating a path toward deeper reflection, healing and thriving.
(423) 556-6941 View (423) 556-6941
Photo of James Weakley - Hope Renewed Counseling and EMDR Therapy, LPCMHSP, CCH, C-DBT, C-EMDR, LPCC-MN, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hope Renewed Counseling and EMDR Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, CCH, C-DBT, C-EMDR, LPCC-MN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064  (Online Only)
I am a Christian EMDR certified therapist, an EMDRIA approved Consultant, a trauma survivor, and have spent years in advanced training in trauma therapy and chronic pain management to insure the best care possible for my clients.
Do you feel like the pressures and problems of life are crushing in on you, causing you to wonder just how much longer you can hang on? Are life experiences causing lost sleep, chronic pain, and impairments in your everyday life? Do you feel isolated, like no one really understands what it's like to be you? Life can deal some pretty nasty blows, and can at times, knock us down, and can even make us wonder if there's hope, or a reason to go on. As a trauma survivor, I know how it feels to be overwhelmed, feeling isolated and defeated! I also know there is HOPE and life after trauma. There truly is hope!
I am a Christian EMDR certified therapist, an EMDRIA approved Consultant, a trauma survivor, and have spent years in advanced training in trauma therapy and chronic pain management to insure the best care possible for my clients.
Do you feel like the pressures and problems of life are crushing in on you, causing you to wonder just how much longer you can hang on? Are life experiences causing lost sleep, chronic pain, and impairments in your everyday life? Do you feel isolated, like no one really understands what it's like to be you? Life can deal some pretty nasty blows, and can at times, knock us down, and can even make us wonder if there's hope, or a reason to go on. As a trauma survivor, I know how it feels to be overwhelmed, feeling isolated and defeated! I also know there is HOPE and life after trauma. There truly is hope!
(731) 628-8201 View (731) 628-8201
Photo of Tony A Halton, MSW, LADAC, MAC, EAP, SAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Tony A Halton
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LADAC, MAC, EAP, SAP
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Pain Management patients to assist in developing coping skills to change negative thoughts and behaviors.
I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselor and have a Masters Social Work Degree. I offer individual therapy, couples and family counseling in addition to group counseling. I specialize in mood disorders, depression post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), marriage & family therapy, anxiety disorders, domestic violence, trauma issues, grief therapy and anger management.
I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Pain Management patients to assist in developing coping skills to change negative thoughts and behaviors.
I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselor and have a Masters Social Work Degree. I offer individual therapy, couples and family counseling in addition to group counseling. I specialize in mood disorders, depression post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), marriage & family therapy, anxiety disorders, domestic violence, trauma issues, grief therapy and anger management.
(615) 703-5085 View (615) 703-5085
Photo of Yvette Mallory, PsyD, LP, RN, Psychologist
Yvette Mallory
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, RN
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122  (Online Only)
While I have diversity within my caseload, I specialize in working with individuals who have chronic illnesses and/or a variety of health diagnoses.
As a psychologist and nurse, I bring a unique understanding to therapy with a focus on both biological and psychological factors that impact mood and behavioral patterns. I believe in a collaborative and holistic approach in my work to help each client achieve personal life goals that are generally aimed at improving health and wellness, managing stress, and improving relationships.
While I have diversity within my caseload, I specialize in working with individuals who have chronic illnesses and/or a variety of health diagnoses.
As a psychologist and nurse, I bring a unique understanding to therapy with a focus on both biological and psychological factors that impact mood and behavioral patterns. I believe in a collaborative and holistic approach in my work to help each client achieve personal life goals that are generally aimed at improving health and wellness, managing stress, and improving relationships.
(629) 260-4640 View (629) 260-4640
Photo of Carrie Wilkerson, MA, MMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carrie Wilkerson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
Hi, I’m Carrie. Whatever is happening in your life right now, we can face it with care and find authentic, effective ways to handle it, together. For over 20 years, I’ve worked with individuals, groups, organizations, and communities in making positive change. I have also experienced my own healing journey from childhood abuse and family dysfunction, so I’m intimately familiar with the terrain. My life’s passion is for healing trauma; transforming pain into wholeness; helping my clients develop their unique gifts and path; and nurturing relationships back to health; and that’s what I’ve trained to do.
Hi, I’m Carrie. Whatever is happening in your life right now, we can face it with care and find authentic, effective ways to handle it, together. For over 20 years, I’ve worked with individuals, groups, organizations, and communities in making positive change. I have also experienced my own healing journey from childhood abuse and family dysfunction, so I’m intimately familiar with the terrain. My life’s passion is for healing trauma; transforming pain into wholeness; helping my clients develop their unique gifts and path; and nurturing relationships back to health; and that’s what I’ve trained to do.
(615) 492-2208 View (615) 492-2208
Photo of Dan LaVelle, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dan LaVelle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220  (Online Only)
I specialize in Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Depression, and Existential Issues.
My goal is to utilize the individual strengths of all clients for the sake of enabling them to accomplish their goals, overcome hardships, and live up to their fullest potential. This possibility is readily available to all willing to adopt new perspectives and practices to their day to day lives. I am passionate about meeting clients where they are for the sake of discovering the perspectives and interests that make people excited about the lives they live. I am credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Service Provider.
I specialize in Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Depression, and Existential Issues.
My goal is to utilize the individual strengths of all clients for the sake of enabling them to accomplish their goals, overcome hardships, and live up to their fullest potential. This possibility is readily available to all willing to adopt new perspectives and practices to their day to day lives. I am passionate about meeting clients where they are for the sake of discovering the perspectives and interests that make people excited about the lives they live. I am credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Service Provider.
(615) 667-0330 View (615) 667-0330
Photo of Christy Hunt, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christy Hunt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
My practice centers around trauma-informed and attachment-based treatment models designed to target conditions such as trauma disorders, dissociation, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and couple’s concerns.
I know how hard life can be, and sometimes, the circumstances seem insurmountable no matter how hard we try. Difficult experiences of loss, broken dreams, and painful stories of childhood abuse and neglect can leave us feeling alone, confused, and afraid. I believe that no matter what you’ve been through, you are worthy of love and belonging. It can take time to feel safe, but when you are ready to approach your truth, you can heal and realize true freedom and contentment. I find this work rewarding, and it would be an honor to join you on your journey toward recovery.
My practice centers around trauma-informed and attachment-based treatment models designed to target conditions such as trauma disorders, dissociation, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and couple’s concerns.
I know how hard life can be, and sometimes, the circumstances seem insurmountable no matter how hard we try. Difficult experiences of loss, broken dreams, and painful stories of childhood abuse and neglect can leave us feeling alone, confused, and afraid. I believe that no matter what you’ve been through, you are worthy of love and belonging. It can take time to feel safe, but when you are ready to approach your truth, you can heal and realize true freedom and contentment. I find this work rewarding, and it would be an honor to join you on your journey toward recovery.
(615) 395-6764 View (615) 395-6764

See more therapy options for Putnam County

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.