Photo of April Bennett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Staunton, VA
April Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Staunton, VA 24401
Accompaniment matters. Relationships transform. We sit together to access the health that is at the center of every human being, even when one of us can’t feel it. We sit because healing happens in relationship, access to true self is made easier in the presence of another person’s settled nervous system, and because your healing matters for the health of all of us. Whether you are facing overwhelm, anger, a frozen feeling, compulsions, depression, trauma, anxiety, or facing other difficult experience, we can touch it with awareness and respect. Our experience includes joy, includes pain, and includes connection and compassion.
Accompaniment matters. Relationships transform. We sit together to access the health that is at the center of every human being, even when one of us can’t feel it. We sit because healing happens in relationship, access to true self is made easier in the presence of another person’s settled nervous system, and because your healing matters for the health of all of us. Whether you are facing overwhelm, anger, a frozen feeling, compulsions, depression, trauma, anxiety, or facing other difficult experience, we can touch it with awareness and respect. Our experience includes joy, includes pain, and includes connection and compassion.
(434) 337-3568 View (434) 337-3568
Photo of Noel Patrice Dianas-Hughes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Staunton, VA
Noel Patrice Dianas-Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-ASWCM, CSAC-S
Verified Verified
Staunton, VA 24401
**ACCEPTING CLIENTS**. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia providing psychological therapies to adolescents, adults, and couples. My primary focus is in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, dual diagnosis, grief, adjustment, and relational problems. My background includes clinical work, case management and training in the medical, educational, social service and therapeutic settings. I am experienced providing assessments and clinical services to children, adolescents, and adults. I also have experience treating those with medical challenges, grief and loss.
**ACCEPTING CLIENTS**. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia providing psychological therapies to adolescents, adults, and couples. My primary focus is in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, dual diagnosis, grief, adjustment, and relational problems. My background includes clinical work, case management and training in the medical, educational, social service and therapeutic settings. I am experienced providing assessments and clinical services to children, adolescents, and adults. I also have experience treating those with medical challenges, grief and loss.
(540) 426-3430 View (540) 426-3430

Online Therapists

Photo of Dougan and Walden Wellness, PLLC, Psychologist in Staunton, 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 Marlene Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Staunton, VA
Marlene Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CHHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Chesterfield, VA 23235
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 Gianna Giuoco, Licensed Professional Counselor in Staunton, 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 Alan Willard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Staunton, VA
Alan Willard
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, DMin
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
When life hurts, I can help. Are you struggling with difficulties that have you feeling depressed, angry, worried, or guilty? Are your relationships at home or work in trouble or conflict? I help individuals and couples who are facing a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, anger, infidelity, pornography, coping w/chronic illness, sexual problems, PTSD, OCD and much more. I started out my professional career as a church pastor, and in my 40's transitioned into becoming a counselor/therapist. I guide people to get over problems and to be their deeper, higher, and more loving, compassionate self.
When life hurts, I can help. Are you struggling with difficulties that have you feeling depressed, angry, worried, or guilty? Are your relationships at home or work in trouble or conflict? I help individuals and couples who are facing a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, anger, infidelity, pornography, coping w/chronic illness, sexual problems, PTSD, OCD and much more. I started out my professional career as a church pastor, and in my 40's transitioned into becoming a counselor/therapist. I guide people to get over problems and to be their deeper, higher, and more loving, compassionate self.
(540) 361-6887 View (540) 361-6887
Photo of Bren Boseman Seed, Licensed Professional Counselor in Staunton, 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 Paula J Hamm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Staunton, VA
Paula J Hamm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Winchester, VA 22602  (Online Only)
Running, running, running to where do I ask? Running away from painful feelings is often a compromised solution to painful feelings. Pain and Suffering is the portal to emotional maturity. No one is spared suffering but it is how we choose to make meaning out of loss that makes the difference between thriving or a life of bitterness and defeat. Intentional committment to understanding your unique narrative is the task I can help you with. Together we will identify the patterns of behavior, and intense emotional feelings that dysregulate your emotions. Please visit and contact me through my website; PaulaJHamm.com and send request
Running, running, running to where do I ask? Running away from painful feelings is often a compromised solution to painful feelings. Pain and Suffering is the portal to emotional maturity. No one is spared suffering but it is how we choose to make meaning out of loss that makes the difference between thriving or a life of bitterness and defeat. Intentional committment to understanding your unique narrative is the task I can help you with. Together we will identify the patterns of behavior, and intense emotional feelings that dysregulate your emotions. Please visit and contact me through my website; PaulaJHamm.com and send request
(703) 457-8940 View (703) 457-8940
Photo of Terri George, Licensed Professional Counselor in Staunton, 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 Rivers Bend Clinicals, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Staunton, VA
Rivers Bend Clinicals, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Glen Allen, VA 23060
Our clients require training and education on ways to improving coping mechanisms when living with a mental health illness/diagnosis. We train, monitor, and educate clients on skills development for living independently. We teach clients about their psychotropic medication and ensure medication management. We connect and educate clients to and about community resources. We also demonstrate, train, and model self-advocacy skills to our clients. Our clients may have treatment history that includes substance abuse or doctor's recommendation.
Our clients require training and education on ways to improving coping mechanisms when living with a mental health illness/diagnosis. We train, monitor, and educate clients on skills development for living independently. We teach clients about their psychotropic medication and ensure medication management. We connect and educate clients to and about community resources. We also demonstrate, train, and model self-advocacy skills to our clients. Our clients may have treatment history that includes substance abuse or doctor's recommendation.
(804) 294-3695 View (804) 294-3695
Photo of Westmoreland Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Staunton, VA
Westmoreland Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cave Spring, VA 24018
Areas of special interest and experience: adjustment disorders, trauma/stress (physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, rape, accidents, veterans); depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks), life transitions; career issues; grief and loss; self-esteem; chronic pain and stress management.
Counseling and Clinical Supervision: Would you like to improve your overall life satisfaction? Counseling helps people to improve their overall life satisfaction by supporting them in making changes. These changes can improve mood, sleep, relationships, work productivity, physical health and more according to your individual goals. I work with people 18 years old and up to support them in effectively making positive changes in their lives. My focus is on developing a trust-based relationship with clients to support them in reaching their goals that improve their overall life satisfaction and wellbeing.
Areas of special interest and experience: adjustment disorders, trauma/stress (physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, rape, accidents, veterans); depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks), life transitions; career issues; grief and loss; self-esteem; chronic pain and stress management.
Counseling and Clinical Supervision: Would you like to improve your overall life satisfaction? Counseling helps people to improve their overall life satisfaction by supporting them in making changes. These changes can improve mood, sleep, relationships, work productivity, physical health and more according to your individual goals. I work with people 18 years old and up to support them in effectively making positive changes in their lives. My focus is on developing a trust-based relationship with clients to support them in reaching their goals that improve their overall life satisfaction and wellbeing.
(540) 709-7530 View (540) 709-7530
Photo of GHDC Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Staunton, 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 The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Staunton, VA
The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
(703) 879-3275 View (703) 879-3275
Photo of Jennifer L Erickson Ph.d. Lpc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Staunton, 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 Dr. Katherine V. Rosemond, Licensed Professional Counselor in Staunton, VA
Dr. Katherine V. Rosemond
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC, CPC, EMT-B
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20109
Welcome to your pathway to healing, making positive life changes, and maximizing success in your business and personal life! We'll identify your goals, identify problems and obstacles in your way, develop strategies to overcome these, make positive changes that YOU want, and reach your goals. I offer addictions and mental health counseling as well as Executive, Business, and Personal Coaching. My clients include individuals, couples, families, and public safety workers and those who serve in the military. I am an active operational EMT with over 20 years experience with local volunteer fire/rescue departments and CISM teams.
Welcome to your pathway to healing, making positive life changes, and maximizing success in your business and personal life! We'll identify your goals, identify problems and obstacles in your way, develop strategies to overcome these, make positive changes that YOU want, and reach your goals. I offer addictions and mental health counseling as well as Executive, Business, and Personal Coaching. My clients include individuals, couples, families, and public safety workers and those who serve in the military. I am an active operational EMT with over 20 years experience with local volunteer fire/rescue departments and CISM teams.
(540) 254-0981 View (540) 254-0981
Photo of John D Boyd, Psychologist in Staunton, VA
John D Boyd
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, ABPH
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23230
Entering psychotherapy is one of the most important decisions a person can make in life, requiring courage, humility and a powerful desire to resolve one's difficulties and become the person you want to be. I know because I've done it several times! It is a privilege to join with you in a collaborative process of unlocking your inner resources and reaching your personal goals. I intend to earn your trust, make you feel comfortable and offer a personalized approach to psychotherapy. Please visit my website to learn more about me. (johnboydphd.com)
Entering psychotherapy is one of the most important decisions a person can make in life, requiring courage, humility and a powerful desire to resolve one's difficulties and become the person you want to be. I know because I've done it several times! It is a privilege to join with you in a collaborative process of unlocking your inner resources and reaching your personal goals. I intend to earn your trust, make you feel comfortable and offer a personalized approach to psychotherapy. Please visit my website to learn more about me. (johnboydphd.com)
(434) 374-7319 View (434) 374-7319
Photo of Sean Slevin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Staunton, VA
Sean Slevin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
~ Counseling tailored to your Personality, from a Christian Perspective, & with a Neurobiological understanding of Lasting Change ~ I understand firsthand the courage required to ask for help. You are taking an important step in pursuing counseling today. ~ I use my understanding of personality types to tailor counseling to your specific needs. We are all unique, and my desire is to help each person become more fully whomever they are meant to be. I use my knowledge of the various strengths and weaknesses of each personality type to help you build on your strengths, and to have compassion for your weaknesses.
~ Counseling tailored to your Personality, from a Christian Perspective, & with a Neurobiological understanding of Lasting Change ~ I understand firsthand the courage required to ask for help. You are taking an important step in pursuing counseling today. ~ I use my understanding of personality types to tailor counseling to your specific needs. We are all unique, and my desire is to help each person become more fully whomever they are meant to be. I use my knowledge of the various strengths and weaknesses of each personality type to help you build on your strengths, and to have compassion for your weaknesses.
Photo of Ashlea Hopkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Staunton, VA
Ashlea Hopkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20187
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Video Counseling! Do you feel overwhelmed or stressed? Do you feel sad or alone? Therapy can help. Finding a therapist you can talk can bring hope. Are you an athlete that needs help improving performance, managing athletic stress, or overcoming fear? I specialize in working with athletes and athletic organizations. I offer on site and online services so that it fits into your busy practice and competition schedule. You don't have to figure it out alone. I will be accepting the listed insurances in April 2022.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Video Counseling! Do you feel overwhelmed or stressed? Do you feel sad or alone? Therapy can help. Finding a therapist you can talk can bring hope. Are you an athlete that needs help improving performance, managing athletic stress, or overcoming fear? I specialize in working with athletes and athletic organizations. I offer on site and online services so that it fits into your busy practice and competition schedule. You don't have to figure it out alone. I will be accepting the listed insurances in April 2022.
(540) 217-4270 View (540) 217-4270
Photo of Twonya Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Staunton, VA
Twonya Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glen Allen, VA 23059  (Online Only)
Ms. Collins is currently accepting new clients in Virginia and NC. Ms. Collins is also accepting new social work supervisees in the state of Virginia. Ms. Collins specializes in treating individuals who are experiencing grief due to loss as well as those who have experienced trauma. Ms. Collins enjoys working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, anger management concerns, as well as those who desire help with managing their overall stress and life transitions. Ms. Collins provides individual therapeutic services in both Virginia and North Carolina.
Ms. Collins is currently accepting new clients in Virginia and NC. Ms. Collins is also accepting new social work supervisees in the state of Virginia. Ms. Collins specializes in treating individuals who are experiencing grief due to loss as well as those who have experienced trauma. Ms. Collins enjoys working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, anger management concerns, as well as those who desire help with managing their overall stress and life transitions. Ms. Collins provides individual therapeutic services in both Virginia and North Carolina.
(804) 792-3695 View (804) 792-3695
Photo of Mental Wellness Now, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Staunton, VA
Mental Wellness Now, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CHT, CAMF, CMHCS
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22802
ATTENTION: Due to the Corona Virus crisis for safety, I would appreciate you coming to your session with your mask on. For more information, please Call Nancy Pinzon at 540-246-8155. I am here for you. ATTENCION: Debido a la presente crisis del Corona Virus, les agradezco venir a sesion con sus mascaras puestas. Pare preguntas, favor llamar a: Nancy Pinzon at 540-246-8155. Estoy para servirles.
ATTENTION: Due to the Corona Virus crisis for safety, I would appreciate you coming to your session with your mask on. For more information, please Call Nancy Pinzon at 540-246-8155. I am here for you. ATTENCION: Debido a la presente crisis del Corona Virus, les agradezco venir a sesion con sus mascaras puestas. Pare preguntas, favor llamar a: Nancy Pinzon at 540-246-8155. Estoy para servirles.
(540) 699-0110 View (540) 699-0110

Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Staunton

See More Chronic Pain Therapists
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.