Photo of Kristina Sarkisova, Licensed Master Social Worker in Austin, TX
Kristina Sarkisova
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78756  (Online Only)
Whether emotional, physical, or both: your pain is 100% real, it matters, and it carries important information.
I'm a multi-cultural, bilingual (English/Español), trauma-sensitive and caring psychotherapist. I'm passionate about neurobiology and the mind-body connection, and I have experience using this integrated approach with clients going through grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship struggles. I find it especially fulfilling to work with people who live with disabilities, chronic illness, and/or chronic pain. I know first-hand how challenging it can be to sustain a loss of health, and I consider it a privilege to support you in the many ways this may be impacting your life.
Whether emotional, physical, or both: your pain is 100% real, it matters, and it carries important information.
I'm a multi-cultural, bilingual (English/Español), trauma-sensitive and caring psychotherapist. I'm passionate about neurobiology and the mind-body connection, and I have experience using this integrated approach with clients going through grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship struggles. I find it especially fulfilling to work with people who live with disabilities, chronic illness, and/or chronic pain. I know first-hand how challenging it can be to sustain a loss of health, and I consider it a privilege to support you in the many ways this may be impacting your life.
(512) 982-6027 View (512) 982-6027
Photo of John Kauffroth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
John Kauffroth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78727  (Online Only)
Maybe you’re hitting up against some loneliness and isolation right now. Or maybe some old burdens are affecting your current life. Lets talk. I don't have any platitudes about positive thinking, but your story matters to me. The thing is, I really enjoy helping people cultivate resilience and self- compassion. Depression, Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Anger that’s hard to control, all these are adversities that we humans grapple with. I've been doing this for a minute. I can say for sure that there is no cookie-cutter solution. It's more about connection. My focus is to create the space for someone to know they aren’t alone in this.
Maybe you’re hitting up against some loneliness and isolation right now. Or maybe some old burdens are affecting your current life. Lets talk. I don't have any platitudes about positive thinking, but your story matters to me. The thing is, I really enjoy helping people cultivate resilience and self- compassion. Depression, Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Anger that’s hard to control, all these are adversities that we humans grapple with. I've been doing this for a minute. I can say for sure that there is no cookie-cutter solution. It's more about connection. My focus is to create the space for someone to know they aren’t alone in this.
(512) 886-6651 View (512) 886-6651
Photo of Brandy Goins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Brandy Goins
Licensed Professional Counselor, Phd,ABD, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78730  (Online Only)
Are you feeling frustrated, perhaps a bit angry? In addition, the feeling that no one understands you or they say the wrong thing to you without thinking of the impact. Dealing with chronic illness and pain is a consistent struggle. Sometimes getting through a day to just support a decent lifestyle is excruciating. The isolation is troubling because a social life feels so out of reach Top that off with a relationship and a healthy sex life seems impossible at the moment. Everyday feels like a marathon of how much can be done while feeling a consistent exhaustion that never goes away. Waking up feeling refreshed seems like a fantasy.
Are you feeling frustrated, perhaps a bit angry? In addition, the feeling that no one understands you or they say the wrong thing to you without thinking of the impact. Dealing with chronic illness and pain is a consistent struggle. Sometimes getting through a day to just support a decent lifestyle is excruciating. The isolation is troubling because a social life feels so out of reach Top that off with a relationship and a healthy sex life seems impossible at the moment. Everyday feels like a marathon of how much can be done while feeling a consistent exhaustion that never goes away. Waking up feeling refreshed seems like a fantasy.
(248) 965-0474 View (248) 965-0474
Photo of Melanie Somerville, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Melanie Somerville
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
I bring compassion, curiosity, and sensitive expertise to my work with adults. A mindful approach allows for attention to the present moment as the foundation for insight and change. Are you finding it difficult to prioritize or care for your mental health? Do you have a history of trauma? Encountering overwhelming life changes? Struggling with chronic pain? My broad experience can be the key to making sense of your world and regaining your equilibrium. In addition, I bring my life experience and work as a professional counselor to offer supervision to LPC interns using the Integrated Development Model and a Psychodynamic approach.
I bring compassion, curiosity, and sensitive expertise to my work with adults. A mindful approach allows for attention to the present moment as the foundation for insight and change. Are you finding it difficult to prioritize or care for your mental health? Do you have a history of trauma? Encountering overwhelming life changes? Struggling with chronic pain? My broad experience can be the key to making sense of your world and regaining your equilibrium. In addition, I bring my life experience and work as a professional counselor to offer supervision to LPC interns using the Integrated Development Model and a Psychodynamic approach.
(512) 960-3591 View (512) 960-3591
Photo of Terri L Beck, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Austin, TX
Terri L Beck
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC, CHT, CPC, CPRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78757
I have used hypnotherapy to help some clients increase their ability to manage chronic pain, quit smoking or work through trauma.
I am a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and Hypnotherapist and have been working in the mental health field for over 12 years. I imagine my ideal client has been feeling symptoms of anxiety, worry or depression or maybe life has hampered you from achieving your desires or goals. I provide in-person and tele-health sessions for those located in the state of Texas that have a desire to begin coping differently
I have used hypnotherapy to help some clients increase their ability to manage chronic pain, quit smoking or work through trauma.
I am a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and Hypnotherapist and have been working in the mental health field for over 12 years. I imagine my ideal client has been feeling symptoms of anxiety, worry or depression or maybe life has hampered you from achieving your desires or goals. I provide in-person and tele-health sessions for those located in the state of Texas that have a desire to begin coping differently
(956) 450-7334 View (956) 450-7334
Photo of Allison Ray Benavides, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Allison Ray Benavides
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704  (Online Only)
My Clients are often coping w/chronic pain or illness, caregiver fatigue, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety/panic, getting older or low self worth.
If you are in pain & feel left out of life, I could be a good fit for you. If you watch everyone else wondering "what am I doing wrong?" "when will it be my turn?" Often we withdraw when we don't feel well, even when longing for connection. Sometimes we are coping w/a medical condition, in addition to trauma, chronic pain or fatigue. Often this is bundled w/depression, anxiety, panic & PTSD. In addition to your own stressors, maybe you also care for a loved one w/a disability or illness. When it's all too much, when our symptoms & stressors push us toward our window of tolerance or decrease feelings of self worth, I'm here for you.
My Clients are often coping w/chronic pain or illness, caregiver fatigue, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety/panic, getting older or low self worth.
If you are in pain & feel left out of life, I could be a good fit for you. If you watch everyone else wondering "what am I doing wrong?" "when will it be my turn?" Often we withdraw when we don't feel well, even when longing for connection. Sometimes we are coping w/a medical condition, in addition to trauma, chronic pain or fatigue. Often this is bundled w/depression, anxiety, panic & PTSD. In addition to your own stressors, maybe you also care for a loved one w/a disability or illness. When it's all too much, when our symptoms & stressors push us toward our window of tolerance or decrease feelings of self worth, I'm here for you.
(210) 971-4414 View (210) 971-4414
Photo of Lisa Z Warren, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Lisa Z Warren
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78717  (Online Only)
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, sleep problems, chronic pain, and serious mental illness. I am here to support you or your loved one on the journey to health and provide you with tools and strategies to help you weather personal, professional, and parenting storms, whether through therapy or a thorough psychological assessment. I am currently taking clients age 16 and up. All services are for people of any sexual orientation and at all points on the gender spectrum. Psychological evaluation offered in person including pre-surgical assessment for those seeking gender-affirming procedures.
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, sleep problems, chronic pain, and serious mental illness. I am here to support you or your loved one on the journey to health and provide you with tools and strategies to help you weather personal, professional, and parenting storms, whether through therapy or a thorough psychological assessment. I am currently taking clients age 16 and up. All services are for people of any sexual orientation and at all points on the gender spectrum. Psychological evaluation offered in person including pre-surgical assessment for those seeking gender-affirming procedures.
(512) 842-6711 View (512) 842-6711
Photo of Anna Graybeal, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Anna Graybeal
Psychologist, PhD, CGP, SEP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78751
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I establish a strong alliance with my clients through empathy and respect and work collaboratively with them to achieve their goals. Other areas of my expertise include parenting, divorce, health problems such as illness and chronic pain, grief and loss, trauma, substance abuse, low self-esteem and identity issues.
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I establish a strong alliance with my clients through empathy and respect and work collaboratively with them to achieve their goals. Other areas of my expertise include parenting, divorce, health problems such as illness and chronic pain, grief and loss, trauma, substance abuse, low self-esteem and identity issues.
(512) 540-5328 View (512) 540-5328
Photo of Deborah Vanko, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Deborah Vanko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78748  (Online Only)
For 30 years I have helped couples and individuals to create a satisfying, loving, conflict-free life by overcoming past or present obstacles. Everyone deserves to be happy and free of emotional pain. I believe empowering people to take charge of their life is liberating. I use a wide variety of counseling approaches customized to fit the individual. These include expressing emotion, identifying helpful and dysfunctional thinking/beliefs and changing behavior or developing strategies to create success. I am an open-minded therapist accepting the diversity of client lifestyle and gender.
For 30 years I have helped couples and individuals to create a satisfying, loving, conflict-free life by overcoming past or present obstacles. Everyone deserves to be happy and free of emotional pain. I believe empowering people to take charge of their life is liberating. I use a wide variety of counseling approaches customized to fit the individual. These include expressing emotion, identifying helpful and dysfunctional thinking/beliefs and changing behavior or developing strategies to create success. I am an open-minded therapist accepting the diversity of client lifestyle and gender.
(512) 515-9483 View (512) 515-9483
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 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 Susan Y Wegener, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Susan Y Wegener, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Being diagnosed with a chronic illness can create a great deal of anxiety about the future. Will I be able to keep working? Will my family and friends truly understand? Will I be able to afford treatment? Will I be able to plan for my future? You may be experiencing feelings of sadness, anger, and anxiety. You may even feel a sense of loss in terms of the person you feel you once were. There may be new limitations and challenges regarding your physical or cognitive abilities. I am here to help!
Being diagnosed with a chronic illness can create a great deal of anxiety about the future. Will I be able to keep working? Will my family and friends truly understand? Will I be able to afford treatment? Will I be able to plan for my future? You may be experiencing feelings of sadness, anger, and anxiety. You may even feel a sense of loss in terms of the person you feel you once were. There may be new limitations and challenges regarding your physical or cognitive abilities. I am here to help!
(512) 515-3841 View (512) 515-3841
Photo of Brooke Robb, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Brooke Robb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
I work with people who want help improving their relationships, or who want relief from the pain of their self-criticism, loneliness, or overwhelming feelings—usually some combination of these. Some of the people I work with want to feel more fully alive. Many of them want to learn how to deepen their connections with others and feel more at ease just being themselves in the world.
I work with people who want help improving their relationships, or who want relief from the pain of their self-criticism, loneliness, or overwhelming feelings—usually some combination of these. Some of the people I work with want to feel more fully alive. Many of them want to learn how to deepen their connections with others and feel more at ease just being themselves in the world.
(737) 210-3636 View (737) 210-3636
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 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 Jenna Wade Garman, LPC Associate in Austin, TX
Jenna Wade Garman
LPC Associate, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Additionally, we offer intensives for issues such as sleep issues, ADHD, and chronic pain.
Reclaiming your peace, clarity, and purpose is possible. Through a cutting-edge approach, you can experience rapid physical and emotional shifts. Maybe you have tried various types of therapy before, or maybe this is your first time considering something different. You want change. You want relief. You want results. Reaching out for help is a courageous, commendable step toward reclaiming the fulfilling life you desire. Please contact Reclaim U Counseling, PLLC for more information.
Additionally, we offer intensives for issues such as sleep issues, ADHD, and chronic pain.
Reclaiming your peace, clarity, and purpose is possible. Through a cutting-edge approach, you can experience rapid physical and emotional shifts. Maybe you have tried various types of therapy before, or maybe this is your first time considering something different. You want change. You want relief. You want results. Reaching out for help is a courageous, commendable step toward reclaiming the fulfilling life you desire. Please contact Reclaim U Counseling, PLLC for more information.
(512) 729-5684 View (512) 729-5684
Photo of Rebecca Davenport, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Rebecca Davenport
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP, PA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
I work with individuals, couples, families and groups, across the life cycle, addressing concerns including (but not limited to); anxiety/depression, interpersonal skills, work/life balance, parenting, chronic/acute illness, and relationships issues for heterosexual, queer, gay and lesbian couples.
I collaborate with clients to resolve problems in living, to promote emotional growth and to facilitate personal and professional success. My therapeutic style is warm, direct and interactive. I believe that each of us can make mindful choices to create a gratifying life, to care for ourselves, our families and relationships. We can practice skillfully and create meaning in the difficulties and catastrophes that can complicate our course.
I work with individuals, couples, families and groups, across the life cycle, addressing concerns including (but not limited to); anxiety/depression, interpersonal skills, work/life balance, parenting, chronic/acute illness, and relationships issues for heterosexual, queer, gay and lesbian couples.
I collaborate with clients to resolve problems in living, to promote emotional growth and to facilitate personal and professional success. My therapeutic style is warm, direct and interactive. I believe that each of us can make mindful choices to create a gratifying life, to care for ourselves, our families and relationships. We can practice skillfully and create meaning in the difficulties and catastrophes that can complicate our course.
(512) 540-5571 View (512) 540-5571
Photo of Andrea B Henderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Andrea B Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
The beginning of healing for your anxiety, depression, trauma, or difficult relationship is willingness to seek help. When a problem seems bigger than you, I'd like to help you understand your own story and find your way back to wholeness. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood pain, life transitions, and helping others grow toward healthier relationships. I believe you are the expert in your life, and I want to help you make sense of your past and present so you can have a fulfilling future.
The beginning of healing for your anxiety, depression, trauma, or difficult relationship is willingness to seek help. When a problem seems bigger than you, I'd like to help you understand your own story and find your way back to wholeness. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood pain, life transitions, and helping others grow toward healthier relationships. I believe you are the expert in your life, and I want to help you make sense of your past and present so you can have a fulfilling future.
(512) 812-9596 View (512) 812-9596
Photo of Moonstone Counseling PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Moonstone Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Our therapists also specialize in treating addiction, eating disorders, and chronic illness.
These are unprecedented times. You may find your usual ways of coping with stress and uncertainty are no longer helping you. Moonstone Counseling is here to support you, whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or any other emotional issue. COVID-19 has challenged us to seek support in new and unconventional ways. We offer in-person and teletherapy sessions to people who need an outlet and guide during this global pandemic. We are here to help you through this tough time.
Our therapists also specialize in treating addiction, eating disorders, and chronic illness.
These are unprecedented times. You may find your usual ways of coping with stress and uncertainty are no longer helping you. Moonstone Counseling is here to support you, whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or any other emotional issue. COVID-19 has challenged us to seek support in new and unconventional ways. We offer in-person and teletherapy sessions to people who need an outlet and guide during this global pandemic. We are here to help you through this tough time.
(512) 580-8377 View (512) 580-8377
Photo of Thanusha Neelapareddy, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Thanusha Neelapareddy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
Dr. Neelapareddy specializes in working with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and couples who are facing various challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship or adjustment issues, as well as chronic illness or pain. With her compassionate approach and extensive experience in the field, she strives to provide personalized care that addresses the unique needs of each individual. Her evidence-based clinical approaches include DBT, CBT, ACT, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Dr. Neelapareddy specializes in working with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and couples who are facing various challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship or adjustment issues, as well as chronic illness or pain. With her compassionate approach and extensive experience in the field, she strives to provide personalized care that addresses the unique needs of each individual. Her evidence-based clinical approaches include DBT, CBT, ACT, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
(512) 714-8913 View (512) 714-8913
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.