Photo of Sarah Pendergraft, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Sarah Pendergraft
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
We can lose touch with ourselves for a variety of reasons. Sometimes the symptoms of our issues disconnect us from ourselves, our environment, and our loved ones. I help clients reconnect with who they are, what they need, and what is most important to them. In sessions, I help clients work through trauma, addiction, chronic pain, chronic health, personal development, relationships, limiting beliefs, black-and-white thinking, judgments, and self-compassion. As a somatic therapist and yoga instructor, I help clients cultivate mindfulness and meditation skills, which can be a critical part of the therapeutic process.
We can lose touch with ourselves for a variety of reasons. Sometimes the symptoms of our issues disconnect us from ourselves, our environment, and our loved ones. I help clients reconnect with who they are, what they need, and what is most important to them. In sessions, I help clients work through trauma, addiction, chronic pain, chronic health, personal development, relationships, limiting beliefs, black-and-white thinking, judgments, and self-compassion. As a somatic therapist and yoga instructor, I help clients cultivate mindfulness and meditation skills, which can be a critical part of the therapeutic process.
(512) 233-6018 View (512) 233-6018
Photo of Erin Page Spalding, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Erin Page Spalding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
Are you grieving the loss of something or someone you loved? Perhaps it was the traumatic loss of a person close to you or your health due to illness. Maybe you’re grieving the person you once knew who you’ve lost due to substances, dementia, or mental health. Grief is a difficult, exhausting, and often isolating process. You may feel like you don’t even know how to or want to move forward, or you may have thought you did and are only now realizing you could use some support to do that. You’re looking for a safe place to start on or move forward in your grief journey.
Are you grieving the loss of something or someone you loved? Perhaps it was the traumatic loss of a person close to you or your health due to illness. Maybe you’re grieving the person you once knew who you’ve lost due to substances, dementia, or mental health. Grief is a difficult, exhausting, and often isolating process. You may feel like you don’t even know how to or want to move forward, or you may have thought you did and are only now realizing you could use some support to do that. You’re looking for a safe place to start on or move forward in your grief journey.
(512) 270-7241 View (512) 270-7241
Photo of Delana Parker, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Delana Parker
Psychologist, Delana
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701
I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults and their families to help them achieve fuller, healthier and happier lives. I particularly enjoy working with adolescents and young adults coping with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, chronic pain, adjustment to health conditions and difficulties managing emotions.
I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults and their families to help them achieve fuller, healthier and happier lives. I particularly enjoy working with adolescents and young adults coping with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, chronic pain, adjustment to health conditions and difficulties managing emotions.
(737) 727-3636 View (737) 727-3636
Photo of Elene Drakonakis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Elene Drakonakis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
Contemplating any change can be daunting, but here you are, reaching out, exploring. Seeing a therapist can be the first step along a new path. Change takes time, and we can go at your pace, walking together on a path you determine. Whether you are looking at a life transition, worried about how substance use is affecting you, grieving a loss or dealing with a chronic illness, together we will begin the process of examining where you are, working together to shift to a place that brings you fulfillment and to help you reach your goals.
Contemplating any change can be daunting, but here you are, reaching out, exploring. Seeing a therapist can be the first step along a new path. Change takes time, and we can go at your pace, walking together on a path you determine. Whether you are looking at a life transition, worried about how substance use is affecting you, grieving a loss or dealing with a chronic illness, together we will begin the process of examining where you are, working together to shift to a place that brings you fulfillment and to help you reach your goals.
(737) 204-2192 View (737) 204-2192
Photo of Ana El-Behadli, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Ana El-Behadli
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Dr. El-Behadli is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in evidence-based, family-centered care. She works with children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression, suicidality, self-harm, and chronic illness or pain. She also works directly with parents in support of their children with these conditions. Dr. El-Behadli is experienced in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and family- and parent-based treatments, such as Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE).
Dr. El-Behadli is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in evidence-based, family-centered care. She works with children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression, suicidality, self-harm, and chronic illness or pain. She also works directly with parents in support of their children with these conditions. Dr. El-Behadli is experienced in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and family- and parent-based treatments, such as Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE).
(737) 727-3048 View (737) 727-3048
Photo of Sydney Kudeviz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Sydney Kudeviz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78748
I work with adolescents and adults of all identities who are open to trying new healing modalities. I enjoy using a variety of tools in sessions including oracle cards, tarot cards, journaling, and EFT or tapping. I have experience navigating and understanding for clients and myself what it is like to live with chronic illness and complex medical issues, particularly chronic pelvic conditions including endometriosis and PCOS. I am happy to see clients virtually or in-person for those fully vaccinated for COVID-19.
I work with adolescents and adults of all identities who are open to trying new healing modalities. I enjoy using a variety of tools in sessions including oracle cards, tarot cards, journaling, and EFT or tapping. I have experience navigating and understanding for clients and myself what it is like to live with chronic illness and complex medical issues, particularly chronic pelvic conditions including endometriosis and PCOS. I am happy to see clients virtually or in-person for those fully vaccinated for COVID-19.
(512) 551-0294 View (512) 551-0294
Photo of Benjamin Jones, LPC-Associate in Austin, TX
Benjamin Jones
LPC-Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78758  (Online Only)
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, a survivor of religious trauma, and someone who suffers from a chronic physical illness, I know that life is full of ups and downs. These ups and downs shape us into who we are, for better or worse, but that doesn't mean you can't make positive changes. In the past couple years I had the privilege to work with a therapist who helped me work through the best and worst parts of who I am and become proud of who I am. That is why I want to be your therapist. I want to be able to provide you with the opportunity that I had, the opportunity to become the best and most authentic person you can be.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, a survivor of religious trauma, and someone who suffers from a chronic physical illness, I know that life is full of ups and downs. These ups and downs shape us into who we are, for better or worse, but that doesn't mean you can't make positive changes. In the past couple years I had the privilege to work with a therapist who helped me work through the best and worst parts of who I am and become proud of who I am. That is why I want to be your therapist. I want to be able to provide you with the opportunity that I had, the opportunity to become the best and most authentic person you can be.
(512) 607-9238 View (512) 607-9238
Photo of Susan Bushong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Susan Bushong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
Chronic pain and illness, sleep problems and sexual addiction and food problems are my specialties. I have over 40 years of experience, an advance certification in compulsive sexual problems and I am a certified weight loss specialist. I also have extensive training in treating anxiety and depression as well as problems in relationships. I am extensively trained in treating chronic pain and sleep problems through hypnotherapy and brief solution focused therapy. I have worked in Europe, India and the United States.
Chronic pain and illness, sleep problems and sexual addiction and food problems are my specialties. I have over 40 years of experience, an advance certification in compulsive sexual problems and I am a certified weight loss specialist. I also have extensive training in treating anxiety and depression as well as problems in relationships. I am extensively trained in treating chronic pain and sleep problems through hypnotherapy and brief solution focused therapy. I have worked in Europe, India and the United States.
(512) 337-3357 View (512) 337-3357
Photo of Cristina Peck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Cristina Peck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Issues include chronic pain, burnout, coping with cancer, parenting, relationship and communication skills, and more.
Are you experiencing burnout? Do you over-book or overwork yourself, believing you have no choice? Do you prioritize other people's needs or problems before your own? Caring physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, caregivers and parents need extra help in deciding how much they can offer and when to pull back to avoid burnout. You may need help if you are an adult child of an alcoholic or grew up in a chaotic or unpredictable home.
Issues include chronic pain, burnout, coping with cancer, parenting, relationship and communication skills, and more.
Are you experiencing burnout? Do you over-book or overwork yourself, believing you have no choice? Do you prioritize other people's needs or problems before your own? Caring physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, caregivers and parents need extra help in deciding how much they can offer and when to pull back to avoid burnout. You may need help if you are an adult child of an alcoholic or grew up in a chaotic or unpredictable home.
(512) 948-3538 View (512) 948-3538
Photo of Maranda Medina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Maranda Medina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
I specialize in working with adult (18+) individuals facing a variety of challenges, including grief, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, trauma, stress management, self-esteem, identity issues, life transitions, and more.
Welcome! My name is Maranda and I believe finding the right therapist is crucial, akin to finding a life partner. I view therapy as a collaborative partnership, where we work together to achieve your goals while tapping into your inherent strengths. I believe that laughter, along with tears, is an important part of the healing process. In sessions, I bring curiosity and honesty, meeting you where you are and guiding you in challenging outdated beliefs. My philosophy is that therapy is simply for those who have exhausted their current coping skills and need to learn new ones.
I specialize in working with adult (18+) individuals facing a variety of challenges, including grief, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, trauma, stress management, self-esteem, identity issues, life transitions, and more.
Welcome! My name is Maranda and I believe finding the right therapist is crucial, akin to finding a life partner. I view therapy as a collaborative partnership, where we work together to achieve your goals while tapping into your inherent strengths. I believe that laughter, along with tears, is an important part of the healing process. In sessions, I bring curiosity and honesty, meeting you where you are and guiding you in challenging outdated beliefs. My philosophy is that therapy is simply for those who have exhausted their current coping skills and need to learn new ones.
View
Photo of Linda Oneal in Austin, TX
Linda Oneal
NLP, MEd
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
I will help you reduce your anxiety and teach you how to manage your overthinking. I use a variety of modalities, including narrative therapy, mindfulness, and inner child work. I'll help you become aware of your thinking. Once we know the triggers that produced those negative, intrusive thoughts, we will examine why our conscious thoughts provoke such big emotions. These big emotions over "little" things are often rooted in how we respond to not being heard, seen, or good enough as a child. We will dismantle archetypes we've developed as adults to cope with the pain of not being enough and focus on becoming our authentic selves.
I will help you reduce your anxiety and teach you how to manage your overthinking. I use a variety of modalities, including narrative therapy, mindfulness, and inner child work. I'll help you become aware of your thinking. Once we know the triggers that produced those negative, intrusive thoughts, we will examine why our conscious thoughts provoke such big emotions. These big emotions over "little" things are often rooted in how we respond to not being heard, seen, or good enough as a child. We will dismantle archetypes we've developed as adults to cope with the pain of not being enough and focus on becoming our authentic selves.
(737) 265-7592 View (737) 265-7592
Photo of Marty Romero Brickley, M.Ed., LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Marty Romero Brickley, M.Ed., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745
Life Problems * Depression * Anxiety * Life Transitions * Pain Grief & Loss * Marital & Relationship Issues * Fears & Phobias * Parenting Issues * Trauma/PTSD * Existential Issues.
I provide counseling for individuals, couples, marriages and families. I also provide individual sessions for Meridian Tapping and iRest® Yoga Nidra Meditation. I integrate Imago, Meridian Tapping and meditation to empower you in learning to navigate your life and relationships. I guide you in exploring body feelings, emotions and beliefs as well as your relationship systems. I will guide you in learning how to become safe with yourself and how to be empowered in the present while living in the world. I look forward to working with you. I will treat your concerns with the utmost respect and with complete confidentiality.
Life Problems * Depression * Anxiety * Life Transitions * Pain Grief & Loss * Marital & Relationship Issues * Fears & Phobias * Parenting Issues * Trauma/PTSD * Existential Issues.
I provide counseling for individuals, couples, marriages and families. I also provide individual sessions for Meridian Tapping and iRest® Yoga Nidra Meditation. I integrate Imago, Meridian Tapping and meditation to empower you in learning to navigate your life and relationships. I guide you in exploring body feelings, emotions and beliefs as well as your relationship systems. I will guide you in learning how to become safe with yourself and how to be empowered in the present while living in the world. I look forward to working with you. I will treat your concerns with the utmost respect and with complete confidentiality.
(512) 354-2813 View (512) 354-2813
Photo of Michelle Ortiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Michelle Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
Has your sense of safety and security been compromised by trauma or adverse childhood experiences? Or perhaps lately you have been feeling “off” and are unsure what is wrong. Whether the issue you are experiencing is big or small, my objective is to create a safe space where we can collaborate to resolve any obstacles in the way of living the life you want. I specialize in working with individuals who have lived through traumatic experiences and/or struggle with depression, anxiety, stress or chronic pain that affects their well-being.
Has your sense of safety and security been compromised by trauma or adverse childhood experiences? Or perhaps lately you have been feeling “off” and are unsure what is wrong. Whether the issue you are experiencing is big or small, my objective is to create a safe space where we can collaborate to resolve any obstacles in the way of living the life you want. I specialize in working with individuals who have lived through traumatic experiences and/or struggle with depression, anxiety, stress or chronic pain that affects their well-being.
(512) 607-7611 View (512) 607-7611
Photo of Nicole T Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Nicole T Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
With compassion, wisdom, humor and a little rebellion we can help you integrate a life of meaning, joy, and connection while also having a chronic illness.
Struggling through life with a chronic or silent illness feels anything but silent. It's more like having an angry body that's screaming and out of control at the worst possible moments. Illnesses like Lyme disease, chronic fatigue, Fibromyalgia, Epstein-Barr, or autoimmune disorders don't always come with support walks and wrist bands. And loved ones or the medical community don't always understand or know how to help. I know you're just about done with getting shuffled in and out of doctor's appointments, but hopefully you'll give me a chance.
With compassion, wisdom, humor and a little rebellion we can help you integrate a life of meaning, joy, and connection while also having a chronic illness.
Struggling through life with a chronic or silent illness feels anything but silent. It's more like having an angry body that's screaming and out of control at the worst possible moments. Illnesses like Lyme disease, chronic fatigue, Fibromyalgia, Epstein-Barr, or autoimmune disorders don't always come with support walks and wrist bands. And loved ones or the medical community don't always understand or know how to help. I know you're just about done with getting shuffled in and out of doctor's appointments, but hopefully you'll give me a chance.
(512) 456-9498 View (512) 456-9498
Photo of DeYoung Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
DeYoung Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78741  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, relationship concerns, stress, isolation, chronic illness, compassion fatigue, grief and loss, sleep issues, self-esteem, self-compassion, parenting issues, and career transition.
Investing time into understanding yourself and developing yourself is one of the best decisions that you can make. Life can feel overwhelming at times and can be difficult to manage. Change can challenge our ability to navigate successfully. Thankfully, you don’t have to navigate life’s transitions alone. I'm passionate about working with my clients to gain an understanding of their past and present stressors, while discovering new tools for healing and growth. Together we can explore what gives your life purpose, hope and meaning and discover paths for living your best life.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, relationship concerns, stress, isolation, chronic illness, compassion fatigue, grief and loss, sleep issues, self-esteem, self-compassion, parenting issues, and career transition.
Investing time into understanding yourself and developing yourself is one of the best decisions that you can make. Life can feel overwhelming at times and can be difficult to manage. Change can challenge our ability to navigate successfully. Thankfully, you don’t have to navigate life’s transitions alone. I'm passionate about working with my clients to gain an understanding of their past and present stressors, while discovering new tools for healing and growth. Together we can explore what gives your life purpose, hope and meaning and discover paths for living your best life.
(512) 967-6596 View (512) 967-6596
Photo of Ali Houshmand, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Ali Houshmand
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Seeking support after the death of a loved one, or preparing for the death of a loved one, can be overwhelming. The focus of my work is to support individuals, families, couples, and children/teenagers when they are dealing with the challenges of loss due to an illness or other issues related to loss. I strive to help my clients cope with the difficult prospects of loss such as death, suicide, divorce, marital discord, terminal illness, chronic illness, job loss, and the challenges it brings to the client, and their family.
Seeking support after the death of a loved one, or preparing for the death of a loved one, can be overwhelming. The focus of my work is to support individuals, families, couples, and children/teenagers when they are dealing with the challenges of loss due to an illness or other issues related to loss. I strive to help my clients cope with the difficult prospects of loss such as death, suicide, divorce, marital discord, terminal illness, chronic illness, job loss, and the challenges it brings to the client, and their family.
(512) 764-1045 View (512) 764-1045
Photo of Samaritan Center in Austin, TX
Samaritan Center
LCSW, LMFT, LPC, LAC
Not Verified Not Verified
Austin, TX 78758
We serve all ages and address a variety of issues including family violence, child abuse, sexual assault, stress, addiction, divorce, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, TBI, pain, insomnia, grief, aging, relationships, career and life transitions.
Samaritan Center has been saving lives and giving hope to Central Texas families for more than 45 years. We envision a healthy and compassionate community where every individual achieves mental, physical, spiritual and social well-being. We heal hearts, provide hope, and enhance lives with a holistic approach to mental health for all ages, whole families and the military community. Since 2007, we have supported veterans and military families through our Hope for Heroes program. With 14 counselors and 2 acupuncturists, we have a unique approach to treating individuals and families.
We serve all ages and address a variety of issues including family violence, child abuse, sexual assault, stress, addiction, divorce, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, TBI, pain, insomnia, grief, aging, relationships, career and life transitions.
Samaritan Center has been saving lives and giving hope to Central Texas families for more than 45 years. We envision a healthy and compassionate community where every individual achieves mental, physical, spiritual and social well-being. We heal hearts, provide hope, and enhance lives with a holistic approach to mental health for all ages, whole families and the military community. Since 2007, we have supported veterans and military families through our Hope for Heroes program. With 14 counselors and 2 acupuncturists, we have a unique approach to treating individuals and families.
(512) 271-4072 View (512) 271-4072
Photo of Sara Sloan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Sara Sloan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST, AASECT, IRT, MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78750
I help clients with identity & relationship issues stemming from personal/cultural differences, a loss of intimacy, infidelity, premarital, sexual incompatibilities, autoimmunity, disability, chronic pain, miscarriage, infertility, sexual complications, religious issues around sexuality and identity, ED, divorce, a new baby, polyamory, anxiety & depression.
I believe relationships define each of us and form the foundation for our life. I work from a systemic perspective with couples, individuals, and families to create relationships that define not only who we are, but also who we desire to become. I help clients with their relationships, intimacy, connection, communication, and sexual compatibility. I work with a lot of women who have suffered from Narcissistic abuse in relationships and family of origin. I also help those who are confused in their current relationships. I enjoy helping those who have autoimmune disease and cancer redefine their sexuality, relationships and desire.
I help clients with identity & relationship issues stemming from personal/cultural differences, a loss of intimacy, infidelity, premarital, sexual incompatibilities, autoimmunity, disability, chronic pain, miscarriage, infertility, sexual complications, religious issues around sexuality and identity, ED, divorce, a new baby, polyamory, anxiety & depression.
I believe relationships define each of us and form the foundation for our life. I work from a systemic perspective with couples, individuals, and families to create relationships that define not only who we are, but also who we desire to become. I help clients with their relationships, intimacy, connection, communication, and sexual compatibility. I work with a lot of women who have suffered from Narcissistic abuse in relationships and family of origin. I also help those who are confused in their current relationships. I enjoy helping those who have autoimmune disease and cancer redefine their sexuality, relationships and desire.
(512) 982-9836 View (512) 982-9836
Photo of Madalyn Ruble, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Madalyn Ruble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am so grateful you're here! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in primarily medical & mental health settings. I enjoy working with teens, adults, & everyone in between! I strive to curate a safe space where you can feel both seen & heard. I specialize in working with stress management, anxiety, chronic illness, relationship issues, & those who may be going through a period of adjustment - whether that be a new diagnosis, a recent move or a breakup, we will move through it together. Looking forward to chatting with you soon!
Hi there! I am so grateful you're here! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in primarily medical & mental health settings. I enjoy working with teens, adults, & everyone in between! I strive to curate a safe space where you can feel both seen & heard. I specialize in working with stress management, anxiety, chronic illness, relationship issues, & those who may be going through a period of adjustment - whether that be a new diagnosis, a recent move or a breakup, we will move through it together. Looking forward to chatting with you soon!
(346) 421-0666 View (346) 421-0666
Photo of Purna Bajekal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Purna Bajekal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78756
Some of my specialties include life transitions, relationships, identity development, self-esteem, people pleasing, chronic illness, anxiety, depression, and school challenges.
It can be hard to find a therapist who understands how living with marginalized identities impact the way we show up in the world—and for ourselves. I take a culturally-responsive and somatic (mind-body centered) approach and value authenticity and inclusivity in my work. I support individuals in understanding how their experiences, relationships, identities, and culture impact who they are and their behaviors and interactions in the world. I specialize in working with young adults, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals, and 1st and 2nd generation immigrants experiencing life transitions.
Some of my specialties include life transitions, relationships, identity development, self-esteem, people pleasing, chronic illness, anxiety, depression, and school challenges.
It can be hard to find a therapist who understands how living with marginalized identities impact the way we show up in the world—and for ourselves. I take a culturally-responsive and somatic (mind-body centered) approach and value authenticity and inclusivity in my work. I support individuals in understanding how their experiences, relationships, identities, and culture impact who they are and their behaviors and interactions in the world. I specialize in working with young adults, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals, and 1st and 2nd generation immigrants experiencing life transitions.
(737) 530-8123 View (737) 530-8123
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.