Chronic Pain Therapists in Garden Ridge, TX

Photo of Ashton Jaramillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garden Ridge, TX
Ashton Jaramillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden Ridge, TX 78266
Waitlist for new clients
), parents, SAHMs, military service members & their families, first responders & their families, mental health diagnoses, co-morbid diagnoses, preteens & teens (13+), school &/or work issues, relationships, trauma, chronic pain/illness, and more.
Life is full of challenges, concerns, &/or situations which may seem overwhelming, overbearing, and out of your control. Reaching out and asking for help to navigate these challenges is the first step! It takes courage, so I commend you for seeking out counseling as an avenue for getting the answers, assistance, and healing you deserve. My goal is to not only provide counseling, but to empower you to get through whatever it is in life you are facing via various modalities of talk therapy, providing you with individualized information and tools, and give you confidence back to face said challenges and achieve your desired goals.
), parents, SAHMs, military service members & their families, first responders & their families, mental health diagnoses, co-morbid diagnoses, preteens & teens (13+), school &/or work issues, relationships, trauma, chronic pain/illness, and more.
Life is full of challenges, concerns, &/or situations which may seem overwhelming, overbearing, and out of your control. Reaching out and asking for help to navigate these challenges is the first step! It takes courage, so I commend you for seeking out counseling as an avenue for getting the answers, assistance, and healing you deserve. My goal is to not only provide counseling, but to empower you to get through whatever it is in life you are facing via various modalities of talk therapy, providing you with individualized information and tools, and give you confidence back to face said challenges and achieve your desired goals.
(830) 402-6218 View (830) 402-6218
Photo of Laura Kotlowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garden Ridge, TX
Laura Kotlowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garden Ridge, TX 78266
I feel privileged & blessed to witness clients' change processes. I seek to use therapy modalities that work best for individualized client care, & I am grateful to serve in settings that align perfectly with my beliefs in achieving recovery. I am humbled to witness the healing that occurs in therapy where there was previously confusion, pain, & hopelessness. It is my life's passion to support & encourage others.
I feel privileged & blessed to witness clients' change processes. I seek to use therapy modalities that work best for individualized client care, & I am grateful to serve in settings that align perfectly with my beliefs in achieving recovery. I am humbled to witness the healing that occurs in therapy where there was previously confusion, pain, & hopelessness. It is my life's passion to support & encourage others.
(210) 791-6972 View (210) 791-6972
Photo of Brittany Coleman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garden Ridge, TX
Brittany Coleman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Garden Ridge, TX 78266
I am a very energetic and enthusiastic counselor who is passionate about helping CHILDERN/ADOLESCENTS with a variety of issues. I believe that it is important to build a trusting relationship with children and families in order to provide a safe place for them to open up about their struggles and begin making changes in order to heal. I also feel it is essential to encourage and empower my clients by recognizing and utilizing individual strengths. It is my goal to help clients feel comfortable with counseling as well as to facilitate quick changes.
I am a very energetic and enthusiastic counselor who is passionate about helping CHILDERN/ADOLESCENTS with a variety of issues. I believe that it is important to build a trusting relationship with children and families in order to provide a safe place for them to open up about their struggles and begin making changes in order to heal. I also feel it is essential to encourage and empower my clients by recognizing and utilizing individual strengths. It is my goal to help clients feel comfortable with counseling as well as to facilitate quick changes.
(210) 899-5179 View (210) 899-5179
Photo of Shannon Schimelpfening, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garden Ridge, TX
Shannon Schimelpfening
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
Garden Ridge, TX 78266
Are you, or your child or teen, experiencing anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or difficulty with life transitions? I work with families to help identify areas of concern and provide solutions to problems. My specialty is working with children and teens, but I also provide services to young adults and adult women. I enjoy helping those who are experiencing anxiety and depression learn coping strategies and learn to explore thought patterns to help provide relief from symptoms. I love helping women navigate through various life stages (from motherhood to empty nest and beyond).
Are you, or your child or teen, experiencing anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or difficulty with life transitions? I work with families to help identify areas of concern and provide solutions to problems. My specialty is working with children and teens, but I also provide services to young adults and adult women. I enjoy helping those who are experiencing anxiety and depression learn coping strategies and learn to explore thought patterns to help provide relief from symptoms. I love helping women navigate through various life stages (from motherhood to empty nest and beyond).
(210) 361-1732 View (210) 361-1732

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Benjamin Conner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garden Ridge, TX
Benjamin Conner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78259
I understand the pain and fatigue associated with battling through these things daily.
Trauma, abuse, self esteem issues, substance use, part of a military family, tired of fighting anxiety or burned our from trauma. I have lived through all of that. They want relief from fighting internal battles, they want to be able to feel without hurting, they want to feel like themselves but may not even know their own identity outside of the chaos.
I understand the pain and fatigue associated with battling through these things daily.
Trauma, abuse, self esteem issues, substance use, part of a military family, tired of fighting anxiety or burned our from trauma. I have lived through all of that. They want relief from fighting internal battles, they want to be able to feel without hurting, they want to feel like themselves but may not even know their own identity outside of the chaos.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Benjamin Conner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garden Ridge, TX
Benjamin Conner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR, Veteran
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78261  (Online Only)
I offer you a pathway from pain and fatigue to peace and empowerment.
If you suffer from trauma, PTSD, anxiety or depression, and you are exhausted from the fight, lets talk. I survived many types of abuse, trauma, and PTSD. I then transitioned from military search and rescue to civilian life with my wife and three boys. I understand treating these issues with EMDR and guiding healing for individuals and families. Parenting and relationships are difficult, and with trauma in the background it can seem impossible. Treating those injuries from the past and present can change your life, strengthen your identity, and heal your relationships.
I offer you a pathway from pain and fatigue to peace and empowerment.
If you suffer from trauma, PTSD, anxiety or depression, and you are exhausted from the fight, lets talk. I survived many types of abuse, trauma, and PTSD. I then transitioned from military search and rescue to civilian life with my wife and three boys. I understand treating these issues with EMDR and guiding healing for individuals and families. Parenting and relationships are difficult, and with trauma in the background it can seem impossible. Treating those injuries from the past and present can change your life, strengthen your identity, and heal your relationships.
(210) 361-2475 View (210) 361-2475
Photo of Jack Morrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garden Ridge, TX
Jack Morrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Converse, TX 78109
I specialize in working with traumatic pain, stress, and relational issues.
I work with both adults and adolescents. For over twenty-five years I have been successfully helping individuals have healthier and happier lives. Anxiety; panic attacks; depression; grief; sadness; anger; guilt; shame; confusion; physical, emotional, and sexual abuse; feelings of hopelessness or helplessness are all problems that can be dramatically changed for the better. I also have helped many people with chronic physical pain. I enjoy my work and welcome the opportunity to work with new clients.
I specialize in working with traumatic pain, stress, and relational issues.
I work with both adults and adolescents. For over twenty-five years I have been successfully helping individuals have healthier and happier lives. Anxiety; panic attacks; depression; grief; sadness; anger; guilt; shame; confusion; physical, emotional, and sexual abuse; feelings of hopelessness or helplessness are all problems that can be dramatically changed for the better. I also have helped many people with chronic physical pain. I enjoy my work and welcome the opportunity to work with new clients.
(512) 430-4418 View (512) 430-4418
Photo of Lisa A Guerra, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garden Ridge, TX
Lisa A Guerra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78217  (Online Only)
My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. I can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. Depression, anxiety, and grief are some of the most uncomfortable emotions we can experience in our lives. We may experience these emotions for many reasons: Loved One's Death, Chronic Pain, Divorce, Job Loss and other Life Challenges.
My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. I can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. Depression, anxiety, and grief are some of the most uncomfortable emotions we can experience in our lives. We may experience these emotions for many reasons: Loved One's Death, Chronic Pain, Divorce, Job Loss and other Life Challenges.
(210) 968-0254 View (210) 968-0254
Photo of Michael Gambuti, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garden Ridge, TX
Michael Gambuti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Live Oak, TX 78233
Life is unfair and unkind at times. Situations can feel overwhelming and unbearable. Through counseling we can help learn the tools needed to better deal with what life can throw at us and develop the virtue of Fortitude. Children, Adolescents, Adults and Families deserve to feel better and enjoy all that life has to offer. I would be honored to join you in this journey. Fortitude: strength of mind that enables a person to encounter danger or bear pain or adversity with courage.
Life is unfair and unkind at times. Situations can feel overwhelming and unbearable. Through counseling we can help learn the tools needed to better deal with what life can throw at us and develop the virtue of Fortitude. Children, Adolescents, Adults and Families deserve to feel better and enjoy all that life has to offer. I would be honored to join you in this journey. Fortitude: strength of mind that enables a person to encounter danger or bear pain or adversity with courage.
(210) 853-5896 View (210) 853-5896
Photo of Joanna Trevino, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garden Ridge, TX
Joanna Trevino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EMDR, LPC-S
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78247
KAP Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and EMDR for eligible clients. I work with humans just like you, offering counseling & guidance to help you relax, activate your inner healing intelligence and achieve your desired goals. Our work is guided by a trauma-responsive lens, which helps you understand how past and/or systemic trauma is connected to your current struggles. Specialty areas include PTS/D, depression, anxiety, chronic pain/illness; and working with other health care and high-stress professionals. Therapy with me is compassionate, client-centered, with growth-mindset accountability.
KAP Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and EMDR for eligible clients. I work with humans just like you, offering counseling & guidance to help you relax, activate your inner healing intelligence and achieve your desired goals. Our work is guided by a trauma-responsive lens, which helps you understand how past and/or systemic trauma is connected to your current struggles. Specialty areas include PTS/D, depression, anxiety, chronic pain/illness; and working with other health care and high-stress professionals. Therapy with me is compassionate, client-centered, with growth-mindset accountability.
(210) 405-8942 View (210) 405-8942
Photo of Karen D. Lee, MA, LPC, Ed.D., Licensed Professional Counselor in Garden Ridge, TX
Karen D. Lee, MA, LPC, Ed.D.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EdD
Verified Verified
Live Oak, TX 78233
We all have an innate goodness, natural spontaneity and potential. We tend to disconnect from it in response to painful experiences. It is a natural, even genetic program, to want happiness and joy in life. The frantic attempt to numb or avoid pain,results in denial of joy and natural spontaneity. My commitment as a therapist is facilitation of healing and transformation towards joy and connection. I use a Holistic approach, seek authenticity, and believe that each person's uniqueness can bring inner peace, extend to family, and enhance relationships. The happiness we generate extends to others and then returns.
We all have an innate goodness, natural spontaneity and potential. We tend to disconnect from it in response to painful experiences. It is a natural, even genetic program, to want happiness and joy in life. The frantic attempt to numb or avoid pain,results in denial of joy and natural spontaneity. My commitment as a therapist is facilitation of healing and transformation towards joy and connection. I use a Holistic approach, seek authenticity, and believe that each person's uniqueness can bring inner peace, extend to family, and enhance relationships. The happiness we generate extends to others and then returns.
(210) 870-7799 View (210) 870-7799
Photo of Valerie Rivas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garden Ridge, TX
Valerie Rivas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78259
It takes strength and courage to accept when one can't handle parts of life, and so, I commend you. As a therapist, I accompany clients exactly where they are while offering unconditional acceptance and respect without judgement to build a safe and inviting counseling environment. Each client brings a set of unique morals, values, beliefs, and strengths which makes each person who they are. I treat ALL issues from adolescent to elderly within individual, couple, family, or group settings. Chronic Illness, Infertility, Miscarriage, Child Loss, Adoption, First Responders, Trauma, Abuse, Neglect & Adolescents are some of my interests.
It takes strength and courage to accept when one can't handle parts of life, and so, I commend you. As a therapist, I accompany clients exactly where they are while offering unconditional acceptance and respect without judgement to build a safe and inviting counseling environment. Each client brings a set of unique morals, values, beliefs, and strengths which makes each person who they are. I treat ALL issues from adolescent to elderly within individual, couple, family, or group settings. Chronic Illness, Infertility, Miscarriage, Child Loss, Adoption, First Responders, Trauma, Abuse, Neglect & Adolescents are some of my interests.
(210) 787-4457 View (210) 787-4457
Photo of Bertha E Rodarte, PhD clinical psychologist PLLC, Psychologist in Garden Ridge, TX
Bertha E Rodarte, PhD clinical psychologist PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78259  (Online Only)
I’m a bilingual (English/Spanish) psychologist located in San Antonio, Texas. I work with individuals who need support to reclaim peace and connection. I provide internet-based psychotherapy to high functioning individuals with mood disorders, anxiety, stress, relationship concerns, and health problems. I have specialized training in bariatric evaluations/issues, trauma recovery, and chronic pain. In addition, I have extensive experience in psychological evaluations. My mission is to provide a trusting relationship where you can discover your authentic self and growth is nurtured. I provide treatment for adults.
I’m a bilingual (English/Spanish) psychologist located in San Antonio, Texas. I work with individuals who need support to reclaim peace and connection. I provide internet-based psychotherapy to high functioning individuals with mood disorders, anxiety, stress, relationship concerns, and health problems. I have specialized training in bariatric evaluations/issues, trauma recovery, and chronic pain. In addition, I have extensive experience in psychological evaluations. My mission is to provide a trusting relationship where you can discover your authentic self and growth is nurtured. I provide treatment for adults.
(210) 899-7261 View (210) 899-7261
Photo of Bob Stead, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garden Ridge, TX
Bob Stead
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78249
I know pain, I know what the darkness feels like, let's be real with each other, on how we explore that together.
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I am NOT your typical Psychotherapist, and I am looking for NOT your typical client. If you believe in the healing power of community and are eager to take control of your bubble, (because that's really all we can control), Don't hesitate to smile in my direction, let's change something meaningful! Also providing Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Preparation, and Integration.
I know pain, I know what the darkness feels like, let's be real with each other, on how we explore that together.
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I am NOT your typical Psychotherapist, and I am looking for NOT your typical client. If you believe in the healing power of community and are eager to take control of your bubble, (because that's really all we can control), Don't hesitate to smile in my direction, let's change something meaningful! Also providing Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Preparation, and Integration.
(210) 791-6580 View (210) 791-6580
Photo of Leslie Ann Shields, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garden Ridge, TX
Leslie Ann Shields
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCS, CBIS
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232  (Online Only)
A favorite saying of mine is "CHANGE... It's One of Life's Only Constants..." Change often signifies growth. Changes often move us from our comfort zone and may trigger stressful or distressing thoughts, behaviors, emotions or physiological responses. Our responses are often unconscious. Except we consciously recognize increased discomfort, pain or unproductive functioning in our daily roles and relationships. If you or a family member are experiencing any social, emotional, mental or behavioral difficulties causing distress & preventing enjoying life or realizing your or their full potential in personal, work or school functioning, I invite you to call me.
A favorite saying of mine is "CHANGE... It's One of Life's Only Constants..." Change often signifies growth. Changes often move us from our comfort zone and may trigger stressful or distressing thoughts, behaviors, emotions or physiological responses. Our responses are often unconscious. Except we consciously recognize increased discomfort, pain or unproductive functioning in our daily roles and relationships. If you or a family member are experiencing any social, emotional, mental or behavioral difficulties causing distress & preventing enjoying life or realizing your or their full potential in personal, work or school functioning, I invite you to call me.
(832) 632-8118 View (832) 632-8118
Photo of Living Well Family and Child Institute, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garden Ridge, TX
Living Well Family and Child Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS LPC, MS Ed,, BS Ed,
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78247
Enjoy counseling while experiencing a natural outdoor atmosphere or in-office setting. Dr. Aragon has 20 years of experience in Academic Teaching/Research and 15 years in Educational and Family counseling. My specialty involves court appointed Child Custody Evaluations, Adoptions, weight-loss management, Chronic Pain, and family relationships (e.g., couples, youth/adolescences and young adulthood). Therapy is engaged with a primary focus on generational trauma, anxiety, depression communication styles, Identity/Self-Esteem, and intimate re-engagement after chronic illness (e.g., Alzheimer's, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, etc.)
Enjoy counseling while experiencing a natural outdoor atmosphere or in-office setting. Dr. Aragon has 20 years of experience in Academic Teaching/Research and 15 years in Educational and Family counseling. My specialty involves court appointed Child Custody Evaluations, Adoptions, weight-loss management, Chronic Pain, and family relationships (e.g., couples, youth/adolescences and young adulthood). Therapy is engaged with a primary focus on generational trauma, anxiety, depression communication styles, Identity/Self-Esteem, and intimate re-engagement after chronic illness (e.g., Alzheimer's, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, etc.)
(214) 628-7225 View (214) 628-7225
Photo of Trish Leaver PhD.,LPC,CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garden Ridge, TX
Trish Leaver PhD.,LPC,CCTP
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Universal City, TX 78148  (Online Only)
military, and first responders dealing with life's issues as well as those struggling with PTSD, trauma, marriage/divorce, & stressors of chronic pain/illnesses.
Sometimes life throws us curve balls and with those hiccups in life come struggles in which we all need help. I believe that it is in those moments when turning to others is key to helping one heal and move forward with their lives. I see strength in seeking counseling for oneself, because that takes courage on your part to step outside of your box and seek help. Establishing a therapeutic relationship that leads to the development of trust is important for growth and healing of a client. It takes courage to take that first step towards counseling, I hope to be able to walk this step with you.
military, and first responders dealing with life's issues as well as those struggling with PTSD, trauma, marriage/divorce, & stressors of chronic pain/illnesses.
Sometimes life throws us curve balls and with those hiccups in life come struggles in which we all need help. I believe that it is in those moments when turning to others is key to helping one heal and move forward with their lives. I see strength in seeking counseling for oneself, because that takes courage on your part to step outside of your box and seek help. Establishing a therapeutic relationship that leads to the development of trust is important for growth and healing of a client. It takes courage to take that first step towards counseling, I hope to be able to walk this step with you.
(210) 361-1728 View (210) 361-1728
Photo of Red Apple Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garden Ridge, TX
Red Apple Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78239  (Online Only)
I specialize in treatment of military service members active duty and veterans, LGBTQIA+, sex related issues, kink positive, depression, trauma and PTSD, anxiety, ADHD and those with severe mental illness.
My name is Faith and I work with individuals and couples facing a range of concerns to include depression, trauma, abuse, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues, sex related issues, sexuality, and other life issues. I will work to meet you where you are in your journey. Red Apple Therapy offers alternative therapies for those searching for a holistic and eclectic approach to counseling, including ecotherapy and mindfulness practices. Our goal is to assist you in meeting your goal by providing a safe, authentic and compassionate clinical setting with an individualized therapy experience.
I specialize in treatment of military service members active duty and veterans, LGBTQIA+, sex related issues, kink positive, depression, trauma and PTSD, anxiety, ADHD and those with severe mental illness.
My name is Faith and I work with individuals and couples facing a range of concerns to include depression, trauma, abuse, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues, sex related issues, sexuality, and other life issues. I will work to meet you where you are in your journey. Red Apple Therapy offers alternative therapies for those searching for a holistic and eclectic approach to counseling, including ecotherapy and mindfulness practices. Our goal is to assist you in meeting your goal by providing a safe, authentic and compassionate clinical setting with an individualized therapy experience.
(512) 980-1226 View (512) 980-1226
Photo of Jeffrey M Locke, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garden Ridge, TX
Jeffrey M Locke, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Schertz, TX 78154
Waitlist for new clients
Emotional health difficulties are like a cold, everyone gets them from time to time. However, if the cold goes on for weeks or keeps on getting worse, you should probably see a healthcare professional. This is true for our emotional health as well. If we want to be healthy, we have to take care of ourselves: body, mind and soul. Psychotherapy is medical treatment and care intended to relieve or heal the soul. It is a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, healing and wholeness. I have 20 years of experience supporting and guiding clients in a variety of areas including mental health, health care, disability and family services.
Emotional health difficulties are like a cold, everyone gets them from time to time. However, if the cold goes on for weeks or keeps on getting worse, you should probably see a healthcare professional. This is true for our emotional health as well. If we want to be healthy, we have to take care of ourselves: body, mind and soul. Psychotherapy is medical treatment and care intended to relieve or heal the soul. It is a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, healing and wholeness. I have 20 years of experience supporting and guiding clients in a variety of areas including mental health, health care, disability and family services.
(317) 676-6716 x78154 View (317) 676-6716 x78154
Photo of Patricia Carrillo Barnes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garden Ridge, TX
Patricia Carrillo Barnes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cibolo, TX 78108
Life is a constant process of change. At times, the process can be difficult and painful. Other times, you can feel that you are at an impasse and don't know where to turn or what to do next. I can provide a private and safe place to talk. I am a spiritual person and I respect the spiritual orientation of my clieints. I utiilize brief, systemic (family or relationship), cognitive behavioral approaches. I strongly encourage you to see and believe in your goals, so that you can acheive them.
Life is a constant process of change. At times, the process can be difficult and painful. Other times, you can feel that you are at an impasse and don't know where to turn or what to do next. I can provide a private and safe place to talk. I am a spiritual person and I respect the spiritual orientation of my clieints. I utiilize brief, systemic (family or relationship), cognitive behavioral approaches. I strongly encourage you to see and believe in your goals, so that you can acheive them.
(210) 255-2010 View (210) 255-2010

See more therapy options for Garden Ridge

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.