Photo of Prince William Family Counseling in Stafford County, VA
Prince William Family Counseling
PsyD, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
One consistent aspect of life is it's evolving nature as well as positive and negative stress for participating individuals. Internal and external stress relating to change can be a barrier to progress to success. Prince William Family Counseling is a diverse organization committed to the assistance, education, support, advocacy, outreach, and welfare of clients and the community. Prince William Family Counseling provides theoretical and evidence based client centered and trauma informed assessments and treatment plans for clients 6+ with various diagnosis and severity individually, couple, family, and group settings.
One consistent aspect of life is it's evolving nature as well as positive and negative stress for participating individuals. Internal and external stress relating to change can be a barrier to progress to success. Prince William Family Counseling is a diverse organization committed to the assistance, education, support, advocacy, outreach, and welfare of clients and the community. Prince William Family Counseling provides theoretical and evidence based client centered and trauma informed assessments and treatment plans for clients 6+ with various diagnosis and severity individually, couple, family, and group settings.
(571) 520-3187 View (571) 520-3187

Online Therapists

Photo of Wholesome Minds, LLC., Psychologist in Stafford County, VA
Wholesome Minds, LLC.
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101  (Online Only)
In therapy and coaching, our focus is on overall mental wellness and improving the mental health and mental capacity of individuals with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma, race-based issues, relationships, life transitions, somatic health, weight loss, pain related issues, and weight management.
We are a group practice of licensed clinical psychologists and social workers. Collectively, we have experience covering the developmental lifespan from assessing and treating young children with behavioral and learning concerns to working with adolescents and (young and older) adult clients who have issues navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, significant life stressors, and life transitions. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We work to achieve this by providing a safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing an individualized treatment plan.
In therapy and coaching, our focus is on overall mental wellness and improving the mental health and mental capacity of individuals with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma, race-based issues, relationships, life transitions, somatic health, weight loss, pain related issues, and weight management.
We are a group practice of licensed clinical psychologists and social workers. Collectively, we have experience covering the developmental lifespan from assessing and treating young children with behavioral and learning concerns to working with adolescents and (young and older) adult clients who have issues navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, significant life stressors, and life transitions. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We work to achieve this by providing a safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing an individualized treatment plan.
(301) 307-5730 View (301) 307-5730
Photo of Gianna Giuoco, Licensed Professional Counselor in Stafford County, VA
Gianna Giuoco
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Culpeper, VA 22701  (Online Only)
Sometimes life brings you challenges that may wear you down and keep you standing still. You might be experiencing an array of emotions such as anxiety, fear, irrational thoughts, chronic pain, or low self-esteem that have become heavy and overwhelming. The negative emotions you are experiencing may be making your life difficult to maneuver. You may even be experiencing challenging life changes or transitions and need some support to help as you traverse the path. This is where the counseling process may help find the hope, strength, and the courage needed to motivate you to move in right direction and find harmony in your life.
Sometimes life brings you challenges that may wear you down and keep you standing still. You might be experiencing an array of emotions such as anxiety, fear, irrational thoughts, chronic pain, or low self-esteem that have become heavy and overwhelming. The negative emotions you are experiencing may be making your life difficult to maneuver. You may even be experiencing challenging life changes or transitions and need some support to help as you traverse the path. This is where the counseling process may help find the hope, strength, and the courage needed to motivate you to move in right direction and find harmony in your life.
(703) 691-5052 View (703) 691-5052
Photo of Jennifer L Erickson Ph.d. Lpc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Stafford County, VA
Jennifer L Erickson Ph.d. Lpc
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23229
As a Health Psychologist I focus on Health and Wellness in many ways. I enjoy helping people with Anxiety Due to a Medical Condition, Adult ADHD, Bariatric Pre & Post Surgical Testing and Counseling, and Rehabilitation Supportive Counseling (post-surgical or chronic illness). These areas might seem very different, but they are not. The common thread is that these areas focus on daily living. If we can't focus, due to worry, adhd, anxiety, recovery, or pain, then it is hard to fully live life. I enjoy helping people be the best version of themselves, no matter what they are going through.
As a Health Psychologist I focus on Health and Wellness in many ways. I enjoy helping people with Anxiety Due to a Medical Condition, Adult ADHD, Bariatric Pre & Post Surgical Testing and Counseling, and Rehabilitation Supportive Counseling (post-surgical or chronic illness). These areas might seem very different, but they are not. The common thread is that these areas focus on daily living. If we can't focus, due to worry, adhd, anxiety, recovery, or pain, then it is hard to fully live life. I enjoy helping people be the best version of themselves, no matter what they are going through.
(804) 531-4900 View (804) 531-4900
Photo of Marlene Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stafford County, VA
Marlene Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CHHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Are you a woman struggling with health issues, chronic pain, trauma, anxiety or depression? Perhaps you can't remember the last time you felt good emotionally or physically. Maybe you are a woman who lacks the motivation to incorporate self care into your life which has left you feeling trapped in your own personal discomfort. No matter what challenges you may be experiencing, there is a solution. I believe that all women deserve to be vibrant, happy, strong and live a life of abundant health. Psychotherapy, proper nutrition, and lifestyle management can reverse or prevent disease and improve your mood drastically.
Are you a woman struggling with health issues, chronic pain, trauma, anxiety or depression? Perhaps you can't remember the last time you felt good emotionally or physically. Maybe you are a woman who lacks the motivation to incorporate self care into your life which has left you feeling trapped in your own personal discomfort. No matter what challenges you may be experiencing, there is a solution. I believe that all women deserve to be vibrant, happy, strong and live a life of abundant health. Psychotherapy, proper nutrition, and lifestyle management can reverse or prevent disease and improve your mood drastically.
(804) 298-7402 View (804) 298-7402
Photo of GHDC Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Stafford County, VA
GHDC Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23226
GHDC practices from the belief that everyone can succeed if given the resources to do so, and we know that everyone has a purpose to discover. A therapist’s duty is to empower. When done correctly, therapy can be a resource for self-awareness, better relationships, and happiness that extends beyond material things. Our agency has considerable experience with trauma, serious mental illness, and holistic treatment methods. We are also experienced in servicing children, offering play based counseling and art based therapies.
GHDC practices from the belief that everyone can succeed if given the resources to do so, and we know that everyone has a purpose to discover. A therapist’s duty is to empower. When done correctly, therapy can be a resource for self-awareness, better relationships, and happiness that extends beyond material things. Our agency has considerable experience with trauma, serious mental illness, and holistic treatment methods. We are also experienced in servicing children, offering play based counseling and art based therapies.
(804) 554-5978 View (804) 554-5978
Photo of Dougan and Walden Wellness, PLLC, Psychologist in Stafford County, VA
Dougan and Walden Wellness, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23113
Are you feeling stressed, depressed, or in pain? We all have our own challenges to overcome. I am passionate about helping each individual who walks into my office. I work with individuals and couples with mood, anxiety, or trauma symptoms. I believe a collaborative approach provides a safe space, which allows you to express thoughts and feelings , allows us to work on goals, and provides the opportunity to explore deeper aspects of life. We will approach your path to change with an empathetic, positive approach. We will work together to develop an approach to address your goals.
Are you feeling stressed, depressed, or in pain? We all have our own challenges to overcome. I am passionate about helping each individual who walks into my office. I work with individuals and couples with mood, anxiety, or trauma symptoms. I believe a collaborative approach provides a safe space, which allows you to express thoughts and feelings , allows us to work on goals, and provides the opportunity to explore deeper aspects of life. We will approach your path to change with an empathetic, positive approach. We will work together to develop an approach to address your goals.
(804) 409-3664 View (804) 409-3664
Photo of Michelle Rad Psyd Lcp, Psychologist in Stafford County, VA
Michelle Rad Psyd Lcp
Psychologist, MA, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
Anxiety, depression, self esteem, ADHD, pain and weight management, and eating DOs are some areas of my expertise.
In 2007, I started a small, quality and evidence based therapeutic, neuro and psychological clinic operating in a patient-friendly environment. I wanted a CBT based yet relaxed and pioneering environment for my clients to promote the emotional, mental, spiritual, relational and academic/professional well-being without feeling stigmatized. My focus has been and will continue to be in responsiveness, structure, uniqueness and innovation and research. Please reach out with any questions via email to Support at EvienceBasedConsultation.com Website: www.EvidenceBasedConsultation.com
Anxiety, depression, self esteem, ADHD, pain and weight management, and eating DOs are some areas of my expertise.
In 2007, I started a small, quality and evidence based therapeutic, neuro and psychological clinic operating in a patient-friendly environment. I wanted a CBT based yet relaxed and pioneering environment for my clients to promote the emotional, mental, spiritual, relational and academic/professional well-being without feeling stigmatized. My focus has been and will continue to be in responsiveness, structure, uniqueness and innovation and research. Please reach out with any questions via email to Support at EvienceBasedConsultation.com Website: www.EvidenceBasedConsultation.com
(571) 999-7201 View (571) 999-7201
Photo of Eduardo Cortina, Licensed Professional Counselor in Stafford County, VA
Eduardo Cortina
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Are you suffering from the effects of PTSD, anxiety, depression, sudden loss, and/or chronic pain? If so body-oriented psychotherapy may help facilitate your recovery. By working to address the root causes of nervous system imbalance, a body-psychotherapy approach can empower you with tools and skills to re-negotiate and resolve difficult and traumatic experiences. My approach in therapy is client-centered and my work is just to facilitate and provide the optimal conditions for healing to take place. I also hope to impart knowledge and skills for people to work with themselves effectively outside of therapy.
Are you suffering from the effects of PTSD, anxiety, depression, sudden loss, and/or chronic pain? If so body-oriented psychotherapy may help facilitate your recovery. By working to address the root causes of nervous system imbalance, a body-psychotherapy approach can empower you with tools and skills to re-negotiate and resolve difficult and traumatic experiences. My approach in therapy is client-centered and my work is just to facilitate and provide the optimal conditions for healing to take place. I also hope to impart knowledge and skills for people to work with themselves effectively outside of therapy.
(202) 933-6934 View (202) 933-6934
Photo of Ashley-Nicole N Sullivan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stafford County, VA
Ashley-Nicole N Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW, SAP, CTMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20111
Are you tired of feeling controlled by your anger, substance use, or toxic relationships? Do you feel as if getting out of bed is the hardest part of your day, feeling unable to make decisions and achieve your goals, or frustrated by chronic pain and illness? The first step in any journey is always the hardest, so congratulations on taking it and starting to consider participation in therapy. I would be honored to work with you to identify specifically what is and isn’t working in your life and discover how the skills and strengths you already possess can be applied in new ways to meet your goals.
Are you tired of feeling controlled by your anger, substance use, or toxic relationships? Do you feel as if getting out of bed is the hardest part of your day, feeling unable to make decisions and achieve your goals, or frustrated by chronic pain and illness? The first step in any journey is always the hardest, so congratulations on taking it and starting to consider participation in therapy. I would be honored to work with you to identify specifically what is and isn’t working in your life and discover how the skills and strengths you already possess can be applied in new ways to meet your goals.
(410) 376-8298 View (410) 376-8298
Photo of Courtney Mack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stafford County, VA
Courtney Mack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22033  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to Water Lily Therapy! My primary areas of practice include depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief and loss, low self-esteem, OCD, LGBTQIA+ and trauma. My approach is eclectic, but based primarily in Client-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with inclusions of motivational interviewing and narrative therapy techniques. When appropriate, I love to incorporate creative interventions such as art, film and humor! I believe that the bond formed between therapist and client is the foundation for healing, change and growth. My goal is to create a safe space for a person to feel truly heard, accepted and valued.
Welcome to Water Lily Therapy! My primary areas of practice include depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief and loss, low self-esteem, OCD, LGBTQIA+ and trauma. My approach is eclectic, but based primarily in Client-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with inclusions of motivational interviewing and narrative therapy techniques. When appropriate, I love to incorporate creative interventions such as art, film and humor! I believe that the bond formed between therapist and client is the foundation for healing, change and growth. My goal is to create a safe space for a person to feel truly heard, accepted and valued.
(443) 398-3141 View (443) 398-3141
Photo of Dr. Danielle M Shpigel, Psychologist in Stafford County, VA
Dr. Danielle M Shpigel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
Choosing a mental health provider can feel daunting. I approach treatment with the philosophy that the foundation for positive change begins with a strong therapist-client relationship and that individuals can find meaning and thrive even amidst life’s most challenging chapters. I am experienced in treating adults with a range of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, and life stressors such as relationship and work difficulties. I also specialize in helping clients and their loved ones cope with medical conditions such as pain, insomnia, and cancer, as well as other physical illnesses or disabilities.
Choosing a mental health provider can feel daunting. I approach treatment with the philosophy that the foundation for positive change begins with a strong therapist-client relationship and that individuals can find meaning and thrive even amidst life’s most challenging chapters. I am experienced in treating adults with a range of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, and life stressors such as relationship and work difficulties. I also specialize in helping clients and their loved ones cope with medical conditions such as pain, insomnia, and cancer, as well as other physical illnesses or disabilities.
(202) 301-4984 View (202) 301-4984
Photo of Terri George, Licensed Professional Counselor in Stafford County, VA
Terri George
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Berryville, VA 22611
Waitlist for new clients
Having worked in community mental health for 30+ years, my focuses include healing from trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and ongoing addiction recovery.
We're all different in the way we experience and manage life. I've always been interested in the wellness of others and have been blessed to witness people find recovery. If you're feeling discouraged, overwhelmed, worried, or sad, together we can discover or revisit the healthy options that you have to navigate those feelings. You've already taken a step in the right direction to manage those feelings by reaching out for help. Connection to others allows us to find peace and to improve quality of life. We can talk about what is going on in your life, what has worked in the past and what has not, and develop a plan to heal.
Having worked in community mental health for 30+ years, my focuses include healing from trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and ongoing addiction recovery.
We're all different in the way we experience and manage life. I've always been interested in the wellness of others and have been blessed to witness people find recovery. If you're feeling discouraged, overwhelmed, worried, or sad, together we can discover or revisit the healthy options that you have to navigate those feelings. You've already taken a step in the right direction to manage those feelings by reaching out for help. Connection to others allows us to find peace and to improve quality of life. We can talk about what is going on in your life, what has worked in the past and what has not, and develop a plan to heal.
(540) 277-3393 View (540) 277-3393
Photo of Tatiana Bergstrom, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Stafford County, VA
Tatiana Bergstrom
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LSATP, ICADC, CSAC, CAP
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
Low self- esteem, unresolved pain or relationship issues, guilt, shame, and beliefs that keep you struggling, can be hard to change on your own.
As a therapist, I try to provide my client with a calm, nurturing and safe environment. My approach is person-centered and I try to work in collaboration with my client to help them overcome the barriers of life so that they can reach their goals. Often it feels painful and difficult to challenge cognitive distortions, yet I try to assist in a kind fashion to work toward independence and growth.
Low self- esteem, unresolved pain or relationship issues, guilt, shame, and beliefs that keep you struggling, can be hard to change on your own.
As a therapist, I try to provide my client with a calm, nurturing and safe environment. My approach is person-centered and I try to work in collaboration with my client to help them overcome the barriers of life so that they can reach their goals. Often it feels painful and difficult to challenge cognitive distortions, yet I try to assist in a kind fashion to work toward independence and growth.
(571) 992-0035 View (571) 992-0035
Photo of Dr. Laura Russell, Psychologist in Stafford County, VA
Dr. Laura Russell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Are you feeling emotionally depleted or fearfully uncertain about the future? I offer therapy for individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship issues, OCD, insomnia, trauma, chronic pain, and ADHD. If you are feeling distressed, isolated, or experiencing problems in your relationships I hope I can guide you through these challenging times. My goal as your therapist would be to help you find your own pathway to healing, balance, and a peace of mind.
Are you feeling emotionally depleted or fearfully uncertain about the future? I offer therapy for individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship issues, OCD, insomnia, trauma, chronic pain, and ADHD. If you are feeling distressed, isolated, or experiencing problems in your relationships I hope I can guide you through these challenging times. My goal as your therapist would be to help you find your own pathway to healing, balance, and a peace of mind.
(571) 526-0449 View (571) 526-0449
Photo of Dr. Catchings Women's Emotional Wellness Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stafford County, VA
Dr. Catchings Women's Emotional Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-S, CFTP, EMDR, LCSWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Emotional issues are a community matter that affects us all. I am dedicated to meeting your needs through support, education, and direct services. I believe in a new high standard of response, helping you at the earliest stage and preventing unnecessary impairment and suffering for you and your family. I specialize in relationships, depression, anxiety, and family violence. I also assist with immigration and home studies. My main goal is to ensure you live a happy life, free of pain and negativity. You are not alone. We can walk together until you feel ready to fly. Cynthia V. Catchings, LCSW-S, CMHIMP, CLYL, CFTP, CMS, EMDR-T
Emotional issues are a community matter that affects us all. I am dedicated to meeting your needs through support, education, and direct services. I believe in a new high standard of response, helping you at the earliest stage and preventing unnecessary impairment and suffering for you and your family. I specialize in relationships, depression, anxiety, and family violence. I also assist with immigration and home studies. My main goal is to ensure you live a happy life, free of pain and negativity. You are not alone. We can walk together until you feel ready to fly. Cynthia V. Catchings, LCSW-S, CMHIMP, CLYL, CFTP, CMS, EMDR-T
(571) 253-7505 View (571) 253-7505
Photo of Ashley Duquette, Counselor in Stafford County, VA
Ashley Duquette
Counselor, LPC, LMHC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22193  (Online Only)
When life gets hard, I believe the bravest, most effective thing we can do is face our own emotions and allow ourselves to receive support. If you are feeling lost, unfulfilled or overwhelmed, you can find relief. Unresolved shame can keep us stuck in fear and frozen in old patterns. Within the container of our therapeutic relationship, we can integrate pain from the past and access connection in the present. Healing can happen in a safe, nonjudgemental interpersonal space where we can replace confusion and self-blame with understanding and compassion.
When life gets hard, I believe the bravest, most effective thing we can do is face our own emotions and allow ourselves to receive support. If you are feeling lost, unfulfilled or overwhelmed, you can find relief. Unresolved shame can keep us stuck in fear and frozen in old patterns. Within the container of our therapeutic relationship, we can integrate pain from the past and access connection in the present. Healing can happen in a safe, nonjudgemental interpersonal space where we can replace confusion and self-blame with understanding and compassion.
(718) 683-5774 View (718) 683-5774
Photo of Bren Boseman Seed, Licensed Professional Counselor in Stafford County, VA
Bren Boseman Seed
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lovingston, VA 22949  (Online Only)
It is my great honor to support those who are anticipating a great loss or actively grieving one. The loss might be a loved one or it could be a job, a relationship, a home, etc. I also work with clients who are facing terminal illness and their own death and want to do so with compassion and intention. I deeply trust our innate drive to grieve and heal. I do not see people through a diagnosis or pathology lens. I believe that even symptoms of illness are our unconscious attempts to cope, protect, adapt and heal. My job is to deeply listen in order to understand and help clients to discover and trust their own inherent wisdom.
It is my great honor to support those who are anticipating a great loss or actively grieving one. The loss might be a loved one or it could be a job, a relationship, a home, etc. I also work with clients who are facing terminal illness and their own death and want to do so with compassion and intention. I deeply trust our innate drive to grieve and heal. I do not see people through a diagnosis or pathology lens. I believe that even symptoms of illness are our unconscious attempts to cope, protect, adapt and heal. My job is to deeply listen in order to understand and help clients to discover and trust their own inherent wisdom.
(757) 530-5686 View (757) 530-5686
Photo of Janice L Fristad, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stafford County, VA
Janice L Fristad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20175
Are you entering a new life transitions, and need some direction? Do you feel that you are in pain as a couple or in a family situation? Please reach out to me today. I would welcome the opportunity of working with you. I have always felt that my passion in life was to offer support to others and to suggest alternative choices in life. I have a Master's degree in Social Work with a focus on gerontology, but I have had experience in working with youth, adults and seniors.
Are you entering a new life transitions, and need some direction? Do you feel that you are in pain as a couple or in a family situation? Please reach out to me today. I would welcome the opportunity of working with you. I have always felt that my passion in life was to offer support to others and to suggest alternative choices in life. I have a Master's degree in Social Work with a focus on gerontology, but I have had experience in working with youth, adults and seniors.
(703) 215-2389 View (703) 215-2389
Photo of Julia Baumgardner Chung, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stafford County, VA
Julia Baumgardner Chung
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22180
My specialties include grief and loss, health psychology for chronic illness, mind/body and experiential treatment of chronic pain and physical symptoms, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Congratulations on taking the first step toward a major life change! The decision to begin counseling is an immense gesture of self love and courage. Finding the right fit is so important to the therapeutic process. Whatever brings you here - the loss of a loved one, a major life transition, troubling relationship patterns, chronic illness or pain, or feeling stuck and confused about the future - will be explored with openness, curiosity, and acceptance. Things can feel easier, when explored without shame or judgment. I believe that we all have the innate ability to heal with the right connection and understanding.
My specialties include grief and loss, health psychology for chronic illness, mind/body and experiential treatment of chronic pain and physical symptoms, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Congratulations on taking the first step toward a major life change! The decision to begin counseling is an immense gesture of self love and courage. Finding the right fit is so important to the therapeutic process. Whatever brings you here - the loss of a loved one, a major life transition, troubling relationship patterns, chronic illness or pain, or feeling stuck and confused about the future - will be explored with openness, curiosity, and acceptance. Things can feel easier, when explored without shame or judgment. I believe that we all have the innate ability to heal with the right connection and understanding.
(571) 351-1823 View (571) 351-1823

See more therapy options for Stafford County


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.