Photo of Kelly Pastori, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Kelly Pastori
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
Trauma and abuse: spiritual, emotional, sexual, physical, racial; Nervous system psychoeducation, anxiety/depression; Boundaries and codependency; Sexual identity development, Evangelical fundamentalist Purity culture recovery; White identity development; Chronic illness, unidentified physical pain and stress, psychosomatic stress.
At the heart of my work, I approach therapy from a relational, psychodynamic therapy model, which means I believe the relationship between the client and therapist can be a transformative component in the growth process. I am a LPC combining modern neurobiology with holistic somatic healing, the psychodynamic therapeutic relationship, and body-based practices to create an experiential awakening on a bodily, psychological and emotional level. I work from a somatic-centered therapeutic approach, meaning that I believe that the body tells the stories and narratives. For more information, my website is: www.kellypastori.com
Trauma and abuse: spiritual, emotional, sexual, physical, racial; Nervous system psychoeducation, anxiety/depression; Boundaries and codependency; Sexual identity development, Evangelical fundamentalist Purity culture recovery; White identity development; Chronic illness, unidentified physical pain and stress, psychosomatic stress.
At the heart of my work, I approach therapy from a relational, psychodynamic therapy model, which means I believe the relationship between the client and therapist can be a transformative component in the growth process. I am a LPC combining modern neurobiology with holistic somatic healing, the psychodynamic therapeutic relationship, and body-based practices to create an experiential awakening on a bodily, psychological and emotional level. I work from a somatic-centered therapeutic approach, meaning that I believe that the body tells the stories and narratives. For more information, my website is: www.kellypastori.com
(512) 598-5003 View (512) 598-5003
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 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 Emily E Harrison, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Emily E Harrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
I specialize in acting as a companion on illness, trauma, or grief journeys.
Are you grappling with the impacts of a loss, medical diagnosis, or trauma? Loss is common to the human experience, but when it stems from the death of a loved one or a cancer diagnosis, it can be especially isolating and overwhelming. You’re asking big questions: Will I always feel like this? Is this normal? When will my suffering end? And despite trying therapy in the past or talking to your friends and family, it’s felt like no one has truly understood your experience. You’re craving warmth, safety, and radical unconditional regard—somewhere all of your emotions, questions, and fears can be freely shared and expressed.
I specialize in acting as a companion on illness, trauma, or grief journeys.
Are you grappling with the impacts of a loss, medical diagnosis, or trauma? Loss is common to the human experience, but when it stems from the death of a loved one or a cancer diagnosis, it can be especially isolating and overwhelming. You’re asking big questions: Will I always feel like this? Is this normal? When will my suffering end? And despite trying therapy in the past or talking to your friends and family, it’s felt like no one has truly understood your experience. You’re craving warmth, safety, and radical unconditional regard—somewhere all of your emotions, questions, and fears can be freely shared and expressed.
(512) 692-4782 View (512) 692-4782
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 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 Brittany (Neece) Whallen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Brittany (Neece) Whallen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Many of our clients come to us for issues including: Relationship struggles; Grief and Loss (including the death or loss of a loved one, loss of a job, and divorce); Anxiety; Depression; Traumatic experiences; EMDR; Life transitional issues; Difficulty within the family system; and Chronic Pain (Specifically pelvic pain).
We all go through complicated situations, some of which we don’t feel adequately prepared to handle. Most of us were never taught how to navigate these difficult struggles in healthy, constructive ways. That's why we are here. My clinical team works with a diverse variety of clientele to provide affordable counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. We want to work with you to help you overcome obstacles that you are facing, improve on aspects in your current life situation, and provide a sense of strength and hope during times that you may feel lost. Please call us for a free phone consultation.
Many of our clients come to us for issues including: Relationship struggles; Grief and Loss (including the death or loss of a loved one, loss of a job, and divorce); Anxiety; Depression; Traumatic experiences; EMDR; Life transitional issues; Difficulty within the family system; and Chronic Pain (Specifically pelvic pain).
We all go through complicated situations, some of which we don’t feel adequately prepared to handle. Most of us were never taught how to navigate these difficult struggles in healthy, constructive ways. That's why we are here. My clinical team works with a diverse variety of clientele to provide affordable counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. We want to work with you to help you overcome obstacles that you are facing, improve on aspects in your current life situation, and provide a sense of strength and hope during times that you may feel lost. Please call us for a free phone consultation.
(512) 814-6027 View (512) 814-6027
Photo of Kelsey Kangos, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Kelsey Kangos
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78757  (Online Only)
I provide therapy using empirically supported treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I believe emotional pain must be allowed and accepted in order to be fully felt and heard. I believe that often times, people seek therapy when their pattern of responding to pain has become overwhelming and they are unable to consistently find meaning in their lives. I work to help others accept their current experiences and emotions in order to choose to respond in a way that is no longer dictated by past narratives and/or automatic reactions.
I provide therapy using empirically supported treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I believe emotional pain must be allowed and accepted in order to be fully felt and heard. I believe that often times, people seek therapy when their pattern of responding to pain has become overwhelming and they are unable to consistently find meaning in their lives. I work to help others accept their current experiences and emotions in order to choose to respond in a way that is no longer dictated by past narratives and/or automatic reactions.
(512) 641-3299 View (512) 641-3299
Photo of ATX Therapy Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
ATX Therapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
Here are some examples of what we can offer during sessions: Improving communication skills, setting boundaries, creating healthy coping skills to manage overwhelming situations, navigating the waves of grief, building healthier couples & family relationships, reducing anxiety or depression symptoms, & managing chronic pain or illness (just to name a few).
It takes great courage to recognize when you could use some additional support in your life, and even more courage to take the first step in reaching out. It may feel easier at times to suffer in silence. ATX Therapy Center is very glad you're here - you deserve to receive the support you need to overcome life's challenges that you are facing, and live your best life. Our team of expert, professional clinicians have experience in helping people with a wide variety of life situations and struggles. We accept most major insurance plans and want to make sure that you have access to affordable, quality healthcare - we're here to help!
Here are some examples of what we can offer during sessions: Improving communication skills, setting boundaries, creating healthy coping skills to manage overwhelming situations, navigating the waves of grief, building healthier couples & family relationships, reducing anxiety or depression symptoms, & managing chronic pain or illness (just to name a few).
It takes great courage to recognize when you could use some additional support in your life, and even more courage to take the first step in reaching out. It may feel easier at times to suffer in silence. ATX Therapy Center is very glad you're here - you deserve to receive the support you need to overcome life's challenges that you are facing, and live your best life. Our team of expert, professional clinicians have experience in helping people with a wide variety of life situations and struggles. We accept most major insurance plans and want to make sure that you have access to affordable, quality healthcare - we're here to help!
(737) 265-7408 View (737) 265-7408
Photo of Brianna Wood, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Brianna Wood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
I have developed a passion for working with clients and families navigating illness.
Making the decision to begin counseling can be difficult and finding a therapist that is a good match can be equally overwhelming. I work to create a comfortable, safe, and supportive environment to make it easier to start the process. Everyone enters therapy at a different place, and I work to meet clients where they are. My approach is primarily relational because the quality of the client-therapist relationship can serve as the catalyst for change.
I have developed a passion for working with clients and families navigating illness.
Making the decision to begin counseling can be difficult and finding a therapist that is a good match can be equally overwhelming. I work to create a comfortable, safe, and supportive environment to make it easier to start the process. Everyone enters therapy at a different place, and I work to meet clients where they are. My approach is primarily relational because the quality of the client-therapist relationship can serve as the catalyst for change.
(512) 548-8778 View (512) 548-8778
Photo of Olga Simons, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Olga Simons, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78723
I believe the counseling process needs to be tailored to the needs of each individual and the client-counselor relationship is very important in effectively addressing life situations and emotional pain. My education and experience has prepared me to counsel individuals, couples, and families. I have spent several years gaining expertise providing mindfulness based counseling (Hakomi) to clients interested in this person-centered approach. EMDR and PACT (Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy - Stan Tatkin's work) trained. Certified mediator.
I believe the counseling process needs to be tailored to the needs of each individual and the client-counselor relationship is very important in effectively addressing life situations and emotional pain. My education and experience has prepared me to counsel individuals, couples, and families. I have spent several years gaining expertise providing mindfulness based counseling (Hakomi) to clients interested in this person-centered approach. EMDR and PACT (Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy - Stan Tatkin's work) trained. Certified mediator.
(512) 829-7418 View (512) 829-7418
Photo of Michelle Hawn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Michelle Hawn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
Feeling Stuck? AnxiousAngrySadLonelyNumbHelpless? You've tried everything else. It's time for a gentle revolution. Give me a call. You and I will work together to loosen and sort this snarly knot of feelings and find calmness and clarity. Together, we will start you on your journey towards what you really want and who you really want to be. If you are looking to deeply explore the roots of any distress, need extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, or you are just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I'm here to help you
Feeling Stuck? AnxiousAngrySadLonelyNumbHelpless? You've tried everything else. It's time for a gentle revolution. Give me a call. You and I will work together to loosen and sort this snarly knot of feelings and find calmness and clarity. Together, we will start you on your journey towards what you really want and who you really want to be. If you are looking to deeply explore the roots of any distress, need extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, or you are just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I'm here to help you
(512) 270-7065 View (512) 270-7065
Photo of Jordana Raiskin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Jordana Raiskin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
There is more to life than just coping! I work with adults and couples who want to feel more vibrancy and optimism in their life, but are just feeling kind of stuck and frustrated. It may surface as a boring job, a flat relationship, not enough relationships, feelings of hopelessness, or a sense of not really choosing the life you have. Humans are not built to solve everything by themselves, and working with an experienced, compassionate, resourceful therapist can help you lighten your load and have choices that make you feel more alive.
There is more to life than just coping! I work with adults and couples who want to feel more vibrancy and optimism in their life, but are just feeling kind of stuck and frustrated. It may surface as a boring job, a flat relationship, not enough relationships, feelings of hopelessness, or a sense of not really choosing the life you have. Humans are not built to solve everything by themselves, and working with an experienced, compassionate, resourceful therapist can help you lighten your load and have choices that make you feel more alive.
(512) 515-1647 View (512) 515-1647
Photo of Discovery Counseling Austin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Discovery Counseling Austin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705
The path forward. That's how we think of therapy at Discovery Counseling. We're here to help you navigate the highs and lows. The challenges and triumphs. That means the hard stuff and the big transitions. The persistent issues and the seemingly small stuff too. Experience tells us that you've got all the skills and smarts you need to thrive. So we'll help you find your path and we'll follow it alongside you. Whether you're searching for mental health, career aspirations, family healing or nutrition counseling, we're here to help tap into your inner wisdom and set out on the next phase of your journey.
The path forward. That's how we think of therapy at Discovery Counseling. We're here to help you navigate the highs and lows. The challenges and triumphs. That means the hard stuff and the big transitions. The persistent issues and the seemingly small stuff too. Experience tells us that you've got all the skills and smarts you need to thrive. So we'll help you find your path and we'll follow it alongside you. Whether you're searching for mental health, career aspirations, family healing or nutrition counseling, we're here to help tap into your inner wisdom and set out on the next phase of your journey.
(512) 942-0720 View (512) 942-0720
Photo of Tammy Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Tammy Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78752  (Online Only)
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years’ experience as an MA, CNA and 7 years of experience meeting the needs of clients in social work settings who struggle with depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, and family relationships. I specialize in working with single moms with children and those with life event adjustments. As a licensed social worker, I utilize a solution-focused approach along with cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapeutic techniques to uncover, process and assist my clients with managing unwanted symptoms that are keeping you from realizing your personal goals in life.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years’ experience as an MA, CNA and 7 years of experience meeting the needs of clients in social work settings who struggle with depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, and family relationships. I specialize in working with single moms with children and those with life event adjustments. As a licensed social worker, I utilize a solution-focused approach along with cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapeutic techniques to uncover, process and assist my clients with managing unwanted symptoms that are keeping you from realizing your personal goals in life.
(737) 727-4038 View (737) 727-4038
Therapy Austin, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
At Therapy Austin, we offer individual, couples/relationship and group therapy services. Using a sophisticated algorithm, combined with a human decision-maker, we will match you personally to one of our qualified counselors. Or, you have the option of choosing a counselor yourself. Affordable pick-your-fee service model, open nights & weekends with 5 locations in South, North & Central Austin. We're keepin' it local and keepin' it real.
At Therapy Austin, we offer individual, couples/relationship and group therapy services. Using a sophisticated algorithm, combined with a human decision-maker, we will match you personally to one of our qualified counselors. Or, you have the option of choosing a counselor yourself. Affordable pick-your-fee service model, open nights & weekends with 5 locations in South, North & Central Austin. We're keepin' it local and keepin' it real.
(512) 649-0110 View (512) 649-0110
Photo of Julia Zenteno-Montez, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Julia Zenteno-Montez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704  (Online Only)
I know this can be a scary and overwhelming process. I offer therapy for those who are navigating life transitions, difficulties in personal relationships, identity issues,depression, grief and loss, and women’s issues (self-image, infertility, postpartum, new mothers). I work with people who want to grow, change, and feel happier but feel lost or stuck in how to do so. I value working with people from diverse cultural, ethnic and sexual backgrounds. I provide culturally sensitive therapy and provide a supportive and safe environment for all to share their story.
I know this can be a scary and overwhelming process. I offer therapy for those who are navigating life transitions, difficulties in personal relationships, identity issues,depression, grief and loss, and women’s issues (self-image, infertility, postpartum, new mothers). I work with people who want to grow, change, and feel happier but feel lost or stuck in how to do so. I value working with people from diverse cultural, ethnic and sexual backgrounds. I provide culturally sensitive therapy and provide a supportive and safe environment for all to share their story.
(512) 646-2044 View (512) 646-2044
Photo of Louis B Laves-Webb, Counselor in Austin, TX
Louis B Laves-Webb
Counselor, LCSW, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701
Ultimately, it’s about what is important to you. Please visit our website at www.LouisLaves-Webb.com to best learn how we can meet your needs. We have over 20 years of clinical experience, two locations, and Telehealth, same day, evening and weekend appointments available. Perhaps you're feeling stuck, scared, at a loss, or genuinely overwhelmed. Counseling sessions can provide a soothing ear, clearer direction, deeper connections, and functional tools when needed. Now Offering services Statewide.
Ultimately, it’s about what is important to you. Please visit our website at www.LouisLaves-Webb.com to best learn how we can meet your needs. We have over 20 years of clinical experience, two locations, and Telehealth, same day, evening and weekend appointments available. Perhaps you're feeling stuck, scared, at a loss, or genuinely overwhelmed. Counseling sessions can provide a soothing ear, clearer direction, deeper connections, and functional tools when needed. Now Offering services Statewide.
(512) 942-2010 View (512) 942-2010
Photo of Patty Olwell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Patty Olwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I enjoy working with individuals and couples navigating difficult periods in their lives. I take a collaborative approach that is grounded in a curious and compassionate inquiry into the areas that get us all stuck. I work with individuals to move through these places in the context of a safe and trusting relationship. Within that relationship an individual can harness their own innate drive towards health and well-being. My work is grounded in my own mindfulness practice and I encourage clients to experiment with mindfulness as a path to transformation and wellness.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples navigating difficult periods in their lives. I take a collaborative approach that is grounded in a curious and compassionate inquiry into the areas that get us all stuck. I work with individuals to move through these places in the context of a safe and trusting relationship. Within that relationship an individual can harness their own innate drive towards health and well-being. My work is grounded in my own mindfulness practice and I encourage clients to experiment with mindfulness as a path to transformation and wellness.
(512) 410-6009 View (512) 410-6009
Photo of The Well Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
The Well Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC, LCPC, TBRI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
The Well is a professional mental health practice with a team of clinicians serving Texas. We sincerely believe there is hope for all who are willing to seek help, no matter what their situation. With an integrated approach, using psychological proven techniques and skills from a Christian foundation, we draw from a variety of methodologies to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. We tailor our skills and therapeutic interventions to meet our individual client’s with love and understanding. Sascha is a advanced clinical supervising specialist for teen, child, marital, and online therapy.
The Well is a professional mental health practice with a team of clinicians serving Texas. We sincerely believe there is hope for all who are willing to seek help, no matter what their situation. With an integrated approach, using psychological proven techniques and skills from a Christian foundation, we draw from a variety of methodologies to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. We tailor our skills and therapeutic interventions to meet our individual client’s with love and understanding. Sascha is a advanced clinical supervising specialist for teen, child, marital, and online therapy.
(469) 290-0502 View (469) 290-0502
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.