Photo of Jolanna J Montgomery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring, TX
Jolanna J Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77388  (Online Only)
I have found personal fulfillment in several years of teaching clients with chronic illness, including the veteran population, about the care options and benefits available to them in their communities.
I am honored to be considered as a support in your journey to the best version of yourself. I believe in providing a safe place for you as I provide an approach that involves life coach modalities utilizing the strengths perspective or even a solution focused aspect. I practice from a bio-psycho-social spiritual model. I believe that each person deserves respect, the opportunity to be heard and to have a voice regardless of background, culture, sexual orientation or economic status. Let's work together to discover what will bring the peace we all seek. I also offer Clinical Supervision for LMSWs.
I have found personal fulfillment in several years of teaching clients with chronic illness, including the veteran population, about the care options and benefits available to them in their communities.
I am honored to be considered as a support in your journey to the best version of yourself. I believe in providing a safe place for you as I provide an approach that involves life coach modalities utilizing the strengths perspective or even a solution focused aspect. I practice from a bio-psycho-social spiritual model. I believe that each person deserves respect, the opportunity to be heard and to have a voice regardless of background, culture, sexual orientation or economic status. Let's work together to discover what will bring the peace we all seek. I also offer Clinical Supervision for LMSWs.
(281) 688-4894 View (281) 688-4894
Photo of Nicole Porter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring, TX
Nicole Porter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77373  (Online Only)
There are many factors that can suggest treatment needs, including: •history of trauma (sexual/ physical/ emotional, abandonment, bullying, domestic violence, financial abuse, etc)•racial identity•medical complications (terminal illness, chronic, or pain),•bereavement, grief/loss, •mood and anxiety disorders •parenting, family and intimate relationships.
Hello, I am Nicole Porter, an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience. I will work with you to create a non-judgmental and empowering space where you can bring your entire self into the room in order to allow healing. The foundation of my work is to build a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship with individuals, couples and families across the lifespan. I combine Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, & Cognitive-Behavioral therapy modalities to efficiently address symptoms (either on a short-term or long-term basis) & meet your needs or goals. Whether you are in pursuit of growth and change.
There are many factors that can suggest treatment needs, including: •history of trauma (sexual/ physical/ emotional, abandonment, bullying, domestic violence, financial abuse, etc)•racial identity•medical complications (terminal illness, chronic, or pain),•bereavement, grief/loss, •mood and anxiety disorders •parenting, family and intimate relationships.
Hello, I am Nicole Porter, an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience. I will work with you to create a non-judgmental and empowering space where you can bring your entire self into the room in order to allow healing. The foundation of my work is to build a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship with individuals, couples and families across the lifespan. I combine Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, & Cognitive-Behavioral therapy modalities to efficiently address symptoms (either on a short-term or long-term basis) & meet your needs or goals. Whether you are in pursuit of growth and change.
(832) 240-7180 View (832) 240-7180
Photo of Elizabeth Leigh Pennington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring, TX
Elizabeth Leigh Pennington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77380  (Online Only)
Living in a world full of beauty and pain can be confusing.
With over a decade of experience in trauma healing, I specialize in complex PTSD clients including dissociation and DID. I also have personal experience and training in grief, medical trauma/disability, and attachment. Technology developers have really stepped up to provide amazing therapeutic experiences. I am grateful for the ways we can utilize sandtray therapy and other expressive arts modalities combined with EMDR (Trauma Treatment) over telementalhealth. I love connecting with nature and enjoy Nature-Based Therapy. Additional specialities: Christian ministers, mental health professionals, and religeous abuse survivors.
Living in a world full of beauty and pain can be confusing.
With over a decade of experience in trauma healing, I specialize in complex PTSD clients including dissociation and DID. I also have personal experience and training in grief, medical trauma/disability, and attachment. Technology developers have really stepped up to provide amazing therapeutic experiences. I am grateful for the ways we can utilize sandtray therapy and other expressive arts modalities combined with EMDR (Trauma Treatment) over telementalhealth. I love connecting with nature and enjoy Nature-Based Therapy. Additional specialities: Christian ministers, mental health professionals, and religeous abuse survivors.
(281) 607-4264 View (281) 607-4264
Photo of Sue Watkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Spring, TX
Sue Watkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77373
Marriage can be the greatest source of love but it can also be the greatest source of pain.
Welcome! Wanting your life to change? Feeling paralyzed by anxiety or depression? Struggling with relationships? Concerned about drinking? I understand and would like to help. We all face struggles and need help at times. I would consider it to be a privilege to be a part of your journey towards a happier and more fulfilling life. it is hard to make that first call. Let's be honest it feels strange initially to talk to a stranger about your personal life. It will be OK and you will be on your way to a new life.
Marriage can be the greatest source of love but it can also be the greatest source of pain.
Welcome! Wanting your life to change? Feeling paralyzed by anxiety or depression? Struggling with relationships? Concerned about drinking? I understand and would like to help. We all face struggles and need help at times. I would consider it to be a privilege to be a part of your journey towards a happier and more fulfilling life. it is hard to make that first call. Let's be honest it feels strange initially to talk to a stranger about your personal life. It will be OK and you will be on your way to a new life.
(936) 776-4731 View (936) 776-4731
Photo of Laura Marie van Veldhoven, Psychologist in Spring, TX
Laura Marie van Veldhoven
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77389
Life happens: we go through seasons of worry, uncertainty, overwhelm and sadness that can be brought on by health challenges, grief & loss and other situations outside of our control. As a psychologist with numerous years of experience and as a breast cancer survivor, I understand these thoughts and feelings and am here to be of help. It can be hard to make the decision to begin therapy, but working together, we will make sense of the thoughts and feelings you are going through, find ways to cope with them and on the way, get to a place of acceptance and growth.
Life happens: we go through seasons of worry, uncertainty, overwhelm and sadness that can be brought on by health challenges, grief & loss and other situations outside of our control. As a psychologist with numerous years of experience and as a breast cancer survivor, I understand these thoughts and feelings and am here to be of help. It can be hard to make the decision to begin therapy, but working together, we will make sense of the thoughts and feelings you are going through, find ways to cope with them and on the way, get to a place of acceptance and growth.
(281) 957-6466 View (281) 957-6466
Photo of Dr. Kadija Moon, Psychologist in Spring, TX
Dr. Kadija Moon
Psychologist, PhD, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77386  (Online Only)
Two words: life happens! Therapy helps us live more purposeful, self-aware lives. There is nothing sweeter, to me, than healing trauma and breaking chains. Trauma seeps through many aspects of our lives, and if we're not careful, can drastically alter our response to the world around us. It is important to move toward existing in the world the way we choose to exist, not what's projected onto us. Also, life happens in the context of relationships; therefore, couples therapy sets my soul ablaze. Couples seeking to grow or overcome obstacles is incredibly intimate work. I am honored to walk alongside and help heal your covenant.
Two words: life happens! Therapy helps us live more purposeful, self-aware lives. There is nothing sweeter, to me, than healing trauma and breaking chains. Trauma seeps through many aspects of our lives, and if we're not careful, can drastically alter our response to the world around us. It is important to move toward existing in the world the way we choose to exist, not what's projected onto us. Also, life happens in the context of relationships; therefore, couples therapy sets my soul ablaze. Couples seeking to grow or overcome obstacles is incredibly intimate work. I am honored to walk alongside and help heal your covenant.
(832) 430-1207 View (832) 430-1207
Photo of Veronica Agyapomaa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring, TX
Veronica Agyapomaa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77373
Do you feel overwhelmed by what life has thrown your way? Expressing our thoughts and emotions aloud are powerful steps toward gaining perspective. I specialize and have experience in working with children (aged 10+), families, couples, and individuals navigating complex life transitions such as school, death, divorce, IVF, miscarriage, chronic illnesses, and grief. In my sessions with couples and families, we work to fostering new ways to relate to each other. I also work with adults and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, assisting families or working individually towards bonding, understanding, and strengths-based growth.
Do you feel overwhelmed by what life has thrown your way? Expressing our thoughts and emotions aloud are powerful steps toward gaining perspective. I specialize and have experience in working with children (aged 10+), families, couples, and individuals navigating complex life transitions such as school, death, divorce, IVF, miscarriage, chronic illnesses, and grief. In my sessions with couples and families, we work to fostering new ways to relate to each other. I also work with adults and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, assisting families or working individually towards bonding, understanding, and strengths-based growth.
(346) 762-2672 View (346) 762-2672
Photo of Mindful Movements Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring, TX
Mindful Movements Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77379
I'm Mikayla, and I am the founder of MMCC. We know it's hard to be vulnerable with a new person, not knowing how they’ll react to what you tell them. As your counselor, our role is to meet you where you’re at, take your hand, and walk with you at your own pace. We are passionate for holistic, mindful mental health counseling for kids, teens, couples, and adults in areas including trauma, DV and sexual assault, grief, faith-based counseling, anxiety, depression, codependency, self-esteem, identity, self-harming behaviors, relationships, parenting, and more. With 11 counselors on our team, we aim to have a counselor for everyone.
I'm Mikayla, and I am the founder of MMCC. We know it's hard to be vulnerable with a new person, not knowing how they’ll react to what you tell them. As your counselor, our role is to meet you where you’re at, take your hand, and walk with you at your own pace. We are passionate for holistic, mindful mental health counseling for kids, teens, couples, and adults in areas including trauma, DV and sexual assault, grief, faith-based counseling, anxiety, depression, codependency, self-esteem, identity, self-harming behaviors, relationships, parenting, and more. With 11 counselors on our team, we aim to have a counselor for everyone.
(713) 804-4955 View (713) 804-4955
Photo of Heather Roberts, Marriage & Family Therapist in Spring, TX
Heather Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77373
I believe that every client has the tools and knowledge necessary to improve their lives. This knowledge becomes hidden by the stress and responsibilities we face on a daily basis. My role as a therapist is to help you uncover those tools in order for you to live a more fulfilling life. If your family is facing a difficult challenge, if you need a different perspective on a situation, or if you are at a loss of what to do with your teen's behavior, I would be honored to help you throughout the process of positive change.
I believe that every client has the tools and knowledge necessary to improve their lives. This knowledge becomes hidden by the stress and responsibilities we face on a daily basis. My role as a therapist is to help you uncover those tools in order for you to live a more fulfilling life. If your family is facing a difficult challenge, if you need a different perspective on a situation, or if you are at a loss of what to do with your teen's behavior, I would be honored to help you throughout the process of positive change.
(281) 602-3316 View (281) 602-3316
Photo of Patricia Dearman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring, TX
Patricia Dearman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BCN
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77389
Recognizing your strengths, even if you haven't seen them for a while or have never acknowledged them, is important in overcoming any problem you are facing. It is my job and my pleasure to help you identify your strengths and gain life-long strategies for happier living. People often become more hopeful and find that the therapeutic process is very helpful. I use humor where we can because therapy should not feel like a chore. It is your opportunity to have a mentor walk with you through a difficult time while providing support, techniques and guidance to help you create the life you envision.
Recognizing your strengths, even if you haven't seen them for a while or have never acknowledged them, is important in overcoming any problem you are facing. It is my job and my pleasure to help you identify your strengths and gain life-long strategies for happier living. People often become more hopeful and find that the therapeutic process is very helpful. I use humor where we can because therapy should not feel like a chore. It is your opportunity to have a mentor walk with you through a difficult time while providing support, techniques and guidance to help you create the life you envision.
(346) 444-1202 View (346) 444-1202
Photo of CourageousCounseling.org / Brandon L. Morgan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring, TX
CourageousCounseling.org / Brandon L. Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77373
Do you fume when someone cuts you off in traffic? Does your blood pressure rocket when your child refuses to cooperate? Anger is a normal and even healthy emotion — but it's important to deal with it in a positive way. Uncontrolled anger can take a toll on both your health and your relationships. Ready to get your anger under control?
Do you fume when someone cuts you off in traffic? Does your blood pressure rocket when your child refuses to cooperate? Anger is a normal and even healthy emotion — but it's important to deal with it in a positive way. Uncontrolled anger can take a toll on both your health and your relationships. Ready to get your anger under control?
(210) 960-8065 View (210) 960-8065
Photo of Susan Bullock Zohn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring, TX
Susan Bullock Zohn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77379  (Online Only)
I am a native Texan who has lived and worked in the Houston area most of my career. I have a background in mental health providing services to individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief any issues which cause distress.
I am a native Texan who has lived and worked in the Houston area most of my career. I have a background in mental health providing services to individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief any issues which cause distress.
(281) 377-0756 View (281) 377-0756
Photo of Mona Mossad, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring, TX
Mona Mossad
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBBCH, MA, LPC, CART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77379
I work best with an individual who may experience self-doubt, low self-esteem, unreasonable fears, depression, stress, and anxiety that sometimes may accompany serious illnesses. I also work with people who are grieving a significant loss, experiencing adjustment disorders because of a life changing event, addicted to alcohol or drugs, involved in a failing marriage, challenged by raising a family, or experiencing a professional burnout. I help you to focus on how unused potential, or being consumed by negative thoughts, can lead to missed opportunities. I will guide you to develop coping skills that will eventually lead to better outcomes in the future.
I work best with an individual who may experience self-doubt, low self-esteem, unreasonable fears, depression, stress, and anxiety that sometimes may accompany serious illnesses. I also work with people who are grieving a significant loss, experiencing adjustment disorders because of a life changing event, addicted to alcohol or drugs, involved in a failing marriage, challenged by raising a family, or experiencing a professional burnout. I help you to focus on how unused potential, or being consumed by negative thoughts, can lead to missed opportunities. I will guide you to develop coping skills that will eventually lead to better outcomes in the future.
(832) 981-6901 View (832) 981-6901
Photo of Shelley L Muller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring, TX
Shelley L Muller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77388
Within themselves, each person has the power and strength to tackle the challenges and difficulties they face. It’s my job, as a clinician, to help them access that power and strength, and I do this by first providing a non-judgmental and positive environment. This allows us to identify the thoughts and perceptions that are influencing their actions, both positive and negative. Real, affirming change can happen when we openly examine the thinking that is holding us back and work to change those thoughts that are no longer servicing our goals. I’m excited to help clients with that self-examination and re-building process.
Within themselves, each person has the power and strength to tackle the challenges and difficulties they face. It’s my job, as a clinician, to help them access that power and strength, and I do this by first providing a non-judgmental and positive environment. This allows us to identify the thoughts and perceptions that are influencing their actions, both positive and negative. Real, affirming change can happen when we openly examine the thinking that is holding us back and work to change those thoughts that are no longer servicing our goals. I’m excited to help clients with that self-examination and re-building process.
(346) 239-8305 View (346) 239-8305
Photo of The Woodlands Family Counseling Center, PLLC in Spring, TX
The Woodlands Family Counseling Center, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77379
TWFCC assists individuals who are going through difficult times by providing the support they need to overcome issues from the past, find freedom from unhealthy patterns of thought and behavior, and live full and productive lives. Our therapists are trained to work with anxiety and depression, relational issues, abuse, trauma, grief, personal & spiritual growth, life transitions, and many additional issues.
TWFCC assists individuals who are going through difficult times by providing the support they need to overcome issues from the past, find freedom from unhealthy patterns of thought and behavior, and live full and productive lives. Our therapists are trained to work with anxiety and depression, relational issues, abuse, trauma, grief, personal & spiritual growth, life transitions, and many additional issues.
(936) 463-8185 View (936) 463-8185

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Village Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Spring, TX
Village Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
At Village Wellness, we offer individual counseling to help you learn how to navigate life's challenges in healthy ways. Our areas of expertise include life transitions, managing work stress, grief, trauma and chronic illness. We also offer couples and family therapy. We know healthy relationships involve being intentional and taking initiative in order for them to thrive. Other areas of expertise include working with couples or families focusing on communication skills, parenting, blending families and more. Individuals who may desire to learn new skills to cope with life transitions, anxiety, depression, self-esteem are welcome.
At Village Wellness, we offer individual counseling to help you learn how to navigate life's challenges in healthy ways. Our areas of expertise include life transitions, managing work stress, grief, trauma and chronic illness. We also offer couples and family therapy. We know healthy relationships involve being intentional and taking initiative in order for them to thrive. Other areas of expertise include working with couples or families focusing on communication skills, parenting, blending families and more. Individuals who may desire to learn new skills to cope with life transitions, anxiety, depression, self-esteem are welcome.
(936) 220-3711 View (936) 220-3711
Photo of Jesse R. Jasso, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring, TX
Jesse R. Jasso
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77070
I have worked in the mental health field providing group and individual counseling in Private Practice, Substance Abuse Recovery Facilities, a Pain Management Center, a Psychiatric Hospital, and a Residential Treatment Facility.
The client is the expert on their life, and I believe in the collaborative nature of the therapeutic alliance between the client and therapist. As a team, we will come up with interventions to change the process and patterns of the way you think, feel, and behave. In my thousands of hours in the field, I have witnessed countless clients improve using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) through an informed trial-and-error process. CBT has the most evidence-based research validating its efficacy and presumes that the mind, body, and social environment are connected in a very sensitive ecosystem.
I have worked in the mental health field providing group and individual counseling in Private Practice, Substance Abuse Recovery Facilities, a Pain Management Center, a Psychiatric Hospital, and a Residential Treatment Facility.
The client is the expert on their life, and I believe in the collaborative nature of the therapeutic alliance between the client and therapist. As a team, we will come up with interventions to change the process and patterns of the way you think, feel, and behave. In my thousands of hours in the field, I have witnessed countless clients improve using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) through an informed trial-and-error process. CBT has the most evidence-based research validating its efficacy and presumes that the mind, body, and social environment are connected in a very sensitive ecosystem.
(281) 949-7388 View (281) 949-7388
Photo of Kristie Yeagley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring, TX
Kristie Yeagley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tomball, TX 77377  (Online Only)
Please consider connecting with me if you are struggling with any if the following - Communication issues with your spouse or partner and open to learning strategies for healthier more fulfilling interactions - moving on from a breakup - past history of trauma that you are finally ready to process with a mental health professional - post-partum issues - parenting issues whether it be toddlers, teenagers or young adults - the downward spiral of chronic pain - the anguish of loneliness - the embarrassment of disorganization/poor time management - the fatigue caused by difficulty controlling worry.
Please consider connecting with me if you are struggling with any if the following - Communication issues with your spouse or partner and open to learning strategies for healthier more fulfilling interactions - moving on from a breakup - past history of trauma that you are finally ready to process with a mental health professional - post-partum issues - parenting issues whether it be toddlers, teenagers or young adults - the downward spiral of chronic pain - the anguish of loneliness - the embarrassment of disorganization/poor time management - the fatigue caused by difficulty controlling worry.
(832) 240-2592 View (832) 240-2592
Photo of Rise Counseling and Coaching LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Spring, TX
Rise Counseling and Coaching LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77014  (Online Only)
I most enjoy working with children & adults who have experienced trauma, grief,& chronic illness.
I'm passionate about making the therapeutic experience inclusive, collaborative, & hope-filled for all. You may have experienced a traumatic event or traumatic relationship, either recently or in the past, and are wondering when you are ever going to feel like yourself again. You may even be experiencing anxiety, grief, depression or trouble sleeping on a daily basis. Or maybe you aren't here for yourself. Perhaps you are looking to find help for your child who is struggling with self-esteem, dealing with a trauma themselves, or living with a disability. Whatever the issue concerning you today, I commend you for being here!
I most enjoy working with children & adults who have experienced trauma, grief,& chronic illness.
I'm passionate about making the therapeutic experience inclusive, collaborative, & hope-filled for all. You may have experienced a traumatic event or traumatic relationship, either recently or in the past, and are wondering when you are ever going to feel like yourself again. You may even be experiencing anxiety, grief, depression or trouble sleeping on a daily basis. Or maybe you aren't here for yourself. Perhaps you are looking to find help for your child who is struggling with self-esteem, dealing with a trauma themselves, or living with a disability. Whatever the issue concerning you today, I commend you for being here!
(254) 218-4161 View (254) 218-4161
Photo of Nora Magnuson Mazzoni, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring, TX
Nora Magnuson Mazzoni
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, LADC, MH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, or stuck? Anxiety, stress, physical pain, conflict in relationships, and trauma can leave us feeling powerless. Oftentimes, you may feel confused, depressed, anxious, scattered, disconnected, unsafe, or hyper-focused. Are you searching for joy in your life, work-life balance, less stress, healthy relationships, and feeling comfortable in your skin or environment? As your therapist, I support you in discovering, unlocking, and utilizing your strengths to maximize your full potential. You can find resilience, post-traumatic growth, hope, peace, joy, happiness, and tranquility in your life!
Overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, or stuck? Anxiety, stress, physical pain, conflict in relationships, and trauma can leave us feeling powerless. Oftentimes, you may feel confused, depressed, anxious, scattered, disconnected, unsafe, or hyper-focused. Are you searching for joy in your life, work-life balance, less stress, healthy relationships, and feeling comfortable in your skin or environment? As your therapist, I support you in discovering, unlocking, and utilizing your strengths to maximize your full potential. You can find resilience, post-traumatic growth, hope, peace, joy, happiness, and tranquility in your life!
(936) 246-3087 View (936) 246-3087

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.