Chronic Pain Therapists in Evansville, WI

There are no results for therapists in Evansville

Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Wisconsin below.

Online Therapists

Photo of Peace of Mind Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Evansville, WI
Peace of Mind Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53719
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to my profile and Peace of Mind Therapy. Reaching out to a therapist can be a huge first step if you have never sought support before. Ultimately, therapy is about capturing one's strengths and helping to empower through personal growth and change.Clients seek my help because of divorce, family and relationship problems, significant loss and illness, trauma, personal choices, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and other problems. Finding peace of mind begins when you choose to start the journey. As your therapist, it will be my privilege to be your guide during this significant time in your life.
Welcome to my profile and Peace of Mind Therapy. Reaching out to a therapist can be a huge first step if you have never sought support before. Ultimately, therapy is about capturing one's strengths and helping to empower through personal growth and change.Clients seek my help because of divorce, family and relationship problems, significant loss and illness, trauma, personal choices, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and other problems. Finding peace of mind begins when you choose to start the journey. As your therapist, it will be my privilege to be your guide during this significant time in your life.
(608) 729-7828 View (608) 729-7828
Photo of Behavioral Health Clinic Online, Psychologist in Evansville, WI
Behavioral Health Clinic Online
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53713
You've taken the courageous step to explore therapy. We can help! Whether you are struggling with new emotional health concerns or have been suffering for a long-time, the staff at BHC are experienced in getting to the root of emotional pain. Let us help you get out of stuck patterns that feel overwhelming. Allow us to both listen and help you negotiate the life paths that provide the most joy.
You've taken the courageous step to explore therapy. We can help! Whether you are struggling with new emotional health concerns or have been suffering for a long-time, the staff at BHC are experienced in getting to the root of emotional pain. Let us help you get out of stuck patterns that feel overwhelming. Allow us to both listen and help you negotiate the life paths that provide the most joy.
(608) 447-5866 View (608) 447-5866
Photo of Karen Loka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evansville, WI
Karen Loka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53215
My name is Karen Loka, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the Eau Claire, WI area, working with clients in MN, WI and IA via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, pain management, difficulty sleeping, and grief and loss. I use Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help my clients navigate a forward path. I have found my style of therapy is best suited to adults that are dealing with transitional and chronic health challenges to develop a more positive outlook on life.
My name is Karen Loka, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the Eau Claire, WI area, working with clients in MN, WI and IA via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, pain management, difficulty sleeping, and grief and loss. I use Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help my clients navigate a forward path. I have found my style of therapy is best suited to adults that are dealing with transitional and chronic health challenges to develop a more positive outlook on life.
(414) 240-1328 View (414) 240-1328
Photo of Jeanne Denney in Evansville, WI
Jeanne Denney
MA, CCE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Racine, WI 53403
Waitlist for new clients
I counsel with a whole life perspective developed from working extensively in hospice and eldercare, with illness, death, and grief.
Would you like to transform your life issues into growth and have a deeper connection to your body, health and purpose? I listen with compassion, offer insight, and support you in finding practical solutions for your life issues: depression, anxiety, anger, relationship problems or something else. Over time I will expose you to body-based methods for physical and emotional renewal. Our work might include mindfulness, breath, movement or other body based techniques, which increases self-awareness and empowerment. Finding an understanding of these changes in the context of spirituality is supported if you find this useful.
I counsel with a whole life perspective developed from working extensively in hospice and eldercare, with illness, death, and grief.
Would you like to transform your life issues into growth and have a deeper connection to your body, health and purpose? I listen with compassion, offer insight, and support you in finding practical solutions for your life issues: depression, anxiety, anger, relationship problems or something else. Over time I will expose you to body-based methods for physical and emotional renewal. Our work might include mindfulness, breath, movement or other body based techniques, which increases self-awareness and empowerment. Finding an understanding of these changes in the context of spirituality is supported if you find this useful.
(262) 383-3680 View (262) 383-3680
Photo of Amal Othman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evansville, WI
Amal Othman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53703
I provide hypnosis and supportive psychotherapy for addiction, chronic pain, and terminal illness.
Resilience is the capacity to prepare for, recover from, and adapt in the face of stress, challenge or adversity. I provide a brave space for holistic health and well-being. I offer compassionate and integrative counseling to individuals and couples. I explore with you the practice of resilience, the embodiment of wellness, and how to access your innate wisdom to empower yourself and improve the quality of your life. My clinical approach is influenced by Internal Family Systems, somatic psychotherapy, and various relational, cognitive, and behavioral modalities.
I provide hypnosis and supportive psychotherapy for addiction, chronic pain, and terminal illness.
Resilience is the capacity to prepare for, recover from, and adapt in the face of stress, challenge or adversity. I provide a brave space for holistic health and well-being. I offer compassionate and integrative counseling to individuals and couples. I explore with you the practice of resilience, the embodiment of wellness, and how to access your innate wisdom to empower yourself and improve the quality of your life. My clinical approach is influenced by Internal Family Systems, somatic psychotherapy, and various relational, cognitive, and behavioral modalities.
(608) 200-3215 View (608) 200-3215
Photo of Jessica J. Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evansville, WI
Jessica J. Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53217  (Online Only)
I also work with clients on mindfully and proactively managing chronic pain and other health issues.
The therapeutic relationship can be a very important one and, like any other healthy relationship, it is based on mutual respect, trust and commitment. I approach our work together with a nonjudgmental stance. I will meet you wherever you are in your life's journey and honor your unique strengths. I support clients in creating their most fulfilling lives, in line with their values and goals. I incorporate mindfulness into a collaborative and client-centered process and employ an honest, direct communication style combined with warmth, compassion, and humor. I strive for a balance of embracing both change and acceptance.
I also work with clients on mindfully and proactively managing chronic pain and other health issues.
The therapeutic relationship can be a very important one and, like any other healthy relationship, it is based on mutual respect, trust and commitment. I approach our work together with a nonjudgmental stance. I will meet you wherever you are in your life's journey and honor your unique strengths. I support clients in creating their most fulfilling lives, in line with their values and goals. I incorporate mindfulness into a collaborative and client-centered process and employ an honest, direct communication style combined with warmth, compassion, and humor. I strive for a balance of embracing both change and acceptance.
(262) 214-3769 View (262) 214-3769
Photo of Elizabeth Kunz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evansville, WI
Elizabeth Kunz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CAPSW, CCLS, EMT-FF
Verified Verified
Middleton, WI 53562  (Online Only)
Providing virtual sessions throughout the entire state of WI, Elizabeth helps to promote coping with the stress and uncertainty of many life situations, including but not limited to hospitalization, illness/diagnosis, trauma, loss, and change. As a patient, you may want someone to share your reality with; as a parent you may want someone to brainstorm ways to communicate difficult subjects to kids/teens; as a caregiver/professional you may want to process. Elizabeth strives to create a confidential and judgement-free space where you will feel supported and know it's okay to bring your authentic self.
Providing virtual sessions throughout the entire state of WI, Elizabeth helps to promote coping with the stress and uncertainty of many life situations, including but not limited to hospitalization, illness/diagnosis, trauma, loss, and change. As a patient, you may want someone to share your reality with; as a parent you may want someone to brainstorm ways to communicate difficult subjects to kids/teens; as a caregiver/professional you may want to process. Elizabeth strives to create a confidential and judgement-free space where you will feel supported and know it's okay to bring your authentic self.
(608) 684-6451 View (608) 684-6451
Photo of Rich R Brendle, Counselor in Evansville, WI
Rich R Brendle
Counselor, MA, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fond Du Lac, WI 54935
We live in a hard world that can cause lots of pain.
Some people, including myself, have had a point in life where they feel there is something more in life, but don't know how to get there. Others may have gotten to a point where they don't feel they have potential. No matter where you are at-broken, stuck, or just feel you need someone to guide you in your journey, I can help you. I love to work with people people through their struggles by taking a relational and evidence based approach that focuses on using ones strength to accomplish their purpose. When one learns to use their strengths, they often feel happier and become more successful.
We live in a hard world that can cause lots of pain.
Some people, including myself, have had a point in life where they feel there is something more in life, but don't know how to get there. Others may have gotten to a point where they don't feel they have potential. No matter where you are at-broken, stuck, or just feel you need someone to guide you in your journey, I can help you. I love to work with people people through their struggles by taking a relational and evidence based approach that focuses on using ones strength to accomplish their purpose. When one learns to use their strengths, they often feel happier and become more successful.
(920) 245-8379 View (920) 245-8379
Photo of Sarah Marty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evansville, WI
Sarah Marty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cross Plains, WI 53528  (Online Only)
I come to the therapeutic relationship from a place of compassion, non-judgementalness and a belief that the path out of depression, grief and pain is based in genuine human connection and application of skills to improve distress tolerance, emotion regulation, mindfulness and communication.
Life happens. Talking helps... I provide telehealth psychotherapy in the State of Wisconsin. for adults 18+ living with depression, anxiety, trauma and a variety of concerns. Everyone deserves kindness and respect. Visit my website to schedule a free 15 minute consult to see if I am the right fit for you. www.empoweredyoutherapy.com
I come to the therapeutic relationship from a place of compassion, non-judgementalness and a belief that the path out of depression, grief and pain is based in genuine human connection and application of skills to improve distress tolerance, emotion regulation, mindfulness and communication.
Life happens. Talking helps... I provide telehealth psychotherapy in the State of Wisconsin. for adults 18+ living with depression, anxiety, trauma and a variety of concerns. Everyone deserves kindness and respect. Visit my website to schedule a free 15 minute consult to see if I am the right fit for you. www.empoweredyoutherapy.com
(608) 602-8324 View (608) 602-8324
Photo of Jessica Gutierrez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evansville, WI
Jessica Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC, ICS, SEP-IT
Verified Verified
Monona, WI 53716  (Online Only)
Hi I'm Jessica! I’m taking new clients for June. I'm a somatic-oriented therapist in Madison, WI with over 18 years of experience. My primary specialties are anxiety, panic and trauma as well as supporting those who identify difficulties with relationships, self-esteem, boundaries and identity. Other focus areas: life transitions, secondary trauma, parenting, depression, ADHD, chronic stress and burn out, chronic pain and autoimmunity. I have a special interest in working with teens 16+, young adults, women, BIPOC, immigrants of color, LGBTQIA+ as well as highly sensitive, intuitive and/or creative people.
Hi I'm Jessica! I’m taking new clients for June. I'm a somatic-oriented therapist in Madison, WI with over 18 years of experience. My primary specialties are anxiety, panic and trauma as well as supporting those who identify difficulties with relationships, self-esteem, boundaries and identity. Other focus areas: life transitions, secondary trauma, parenting, depression, ADHD, chronic stress and burn out, chronic pain and autoimmunity. I have a special interest in working with teens 16+, young adults, women, BIPOC, immigrants of color, LGBTQIA+ as well as highly sensitive, intuitive and/or creative people.
(608) 938-8567 View (608) 938-8567
Photo of Heather Hart Kennedy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evansville, WI
Heather Hart Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53092
I view psychotherapy as a powerful tool for breaking out of confusion and pain. I work with people seeking help with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, performance, life transitions, job problems, relationship issues, loneliness, and unhappiness. I actively and compassionately work with individuals (adults and adolescents) to help them regain a sense of hope, meaning, and connection in their lives, improving their coping skills and to manage daily stress and overcome destructive behaviors. As a therapist, I work with people to create the lives they want, allowing them to interact more successfully in their families, relationships, and the broader community.
I view psychotherapy as a powerful tool for breaking out of confusion and pain. I work with people seeking help with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, performance, life transitions, job problems, relationship issues, loneliness, and unhappiness. I actively and compassionately work with individuals (adults and adolescents) to help them regain a sense of hope, meaning, and connection in their lives, improving their coping skills and to manage daily stress and overcome destructive behaviors. As a therapist, I work with people to create the lives they want, allowing them to interact more successfully in their families, relationships, and the broader community.
(414) 263-9090 View (414) 263-9090
Photo of Bob Rockey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evansville, WI
Bob Rockey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
West Allis, WI 53227  (Online Only)
Since 1980 I have served those struggling with mental illness and personal problems in greater Milwaukee. I mainly help adults and older adults individually. Common topics I treat include depression, bipolar disorder, codependency, abuse, worry, grieving, chronic pain and health issues, and generally dealing with changes. Many I see experienced a long slow decline over time when that, "Straw that Broke the Camel's Back," landed. It became clear that things were just not working, and they need to try something different. That's when many of my people called me.
Since 1980 I have served those struggling with mental illness and personal problems in greater Milwaukee. I mainly help adults and older adults individually. Common topics I treat include depression, bipolar disorder, codependency, abuse, worry, grieving, chronic pain and health issues, and generally dealing with changes. Many I see experienced a long slow decline over time when that, "Straw that Broke the Camel's Back," landed. It became clear that things were just not working, and they need to try something different. That's when many of my people called me.
(414) 312-5531 View (414) 312-5531
Photo of Leslie Golden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evansville, WI
Leslie Golden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704
I provide individual therapy to adults with an emphasis on exploration, collaboration, and discovery. I focus on a broad range of issues including depression, anxiety, identity, women’s issues, interpersonal difficulties, life transitions, chronic pain and other medical challenges. I work from a psychodynamic lens to help you identify the powerful forces that shape your life and are often hiding in plain sight. Together we can explore your personal experience, early life, and family history to better understand patterns, to gain meaning and self-understanding, to relieve suffering, and to feel empowered to change the way you live.
I provide individual therapy to adults with an emphasis on exploration, collaboration, and discovery. I focus on a broad range of issues including depression, anxiety, identity, women’s issues, interpersonal difficulties, life transitions, chronic pain and other medical challenges. I work from a psychodynamic lens to help you identify the powerful forces that shape your life and are often hiding in plain sight. Together we can explore your personal experience, early life, and family history to better understand patterns, to gain meaning and self-understanding, to relieve suffering, and to feel empowered to change the way you live.
View
Photo of Dr. Constanz Hartney, Psychologist in Evansville, WI
Dr. Constanz Hartney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Creek, WI 53154
Pain management treatments include basic stress management, cognitive restructuring, focused distraction techniques as well as medication compliance and addiction monitoring.
Dr. Hartney understands that challenges in life can bring people to a place where support from a neutral and compassionate professional can make a needed difference. He strives to create a helpful and hopeful environment to assist you achieve goals, overcome conflicts and lead a happier and more fulfilling life. His treatment style is patient-centered and his approach places emphasis on rapport-building and therapeutic empathy directed at patients for self-directed problem solving.
Pain management treatments include basic stress management, cognitive restructuring, focused distraction techniques as well as medication compliance and addiction monitoring.
Dr. Hartney understands that challenges in life can bring people to a place where support from a neutral and compassionate professional can make a needed difference. He strives to create a helpful and hopeful environment to assist you achieve goals, overcome conflicts and lead a happier and more fulfilling life. His treatment style is patient-centered and his approach places emphasis on rapport-building and therapeutic empathy directed at patients for self-directed problem solving.
(262) 240-6744 View (262) 240-6744
Photo of Judith A Toor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evansville, WI
Judith A Toor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCW, LMFT, CCH
Verified Verified
New Berlin, WI 53146  (Online Only)
Whatever the problem you are facing, the pain you are feeling, the life experiences that are causing such turmoil for you, please know that a true healing journey is available.
I enjoy working with clients who want to learn more about the inner workings of their psyche, who are ready to take the first steps on their journey to heal and are motivated to do the necessary work. I take a holistic approach tending to each person's physical, mental/cognitive, emotional and spiritual aspects. My personal style is one of honesty, creativity, nonjudgmental acceptance and yes, at times, humor. I see myself as a guide who walks with each client, providing a safe, caring and supportive presence.
Whatever the problem you are facing, the pain you are feeling, the life experiences that are causing such turmoil for you, please know that a true healing journey is available.
I enjoy working with clients who want to learn more about the inner workings of their psyche, who are ready to take the first steps on their journey to heal and are motivated to do the necessary work. I take a holistic approach tending to each person's physical, mental/cognitive, emotional and spiritual aspects. My personal style is one of honesty, creativity, nonjudgmental acceptance and yes, at times, humor. I see myself as a guide who walks with each client, providing a safe, caring and supportive presence.
(262) 710-2620 View (262) 710-2620
Photo of Heather Ann Hodorowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evansville, WI
Heather Ann Hodorowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53223  (Online Only)
I work with individual adults with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, medical issues/pain management and suicidality.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Board-Certified Music Therapist with over 20 years or experience with clients across the lifespan in medical settings and various levels of care in mental and behavioral health. I am a strength-based counselor who takes a person-centered approach and takes the time to develop a strong rapport with my clients. Every client is unique and brings with them their own individual stressors, life circumstances, and stories. I am here to honor that.
I work with individual adults with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, medical issues/pain management and suicidality.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Board-Certified Music Therapist with over 20 years or experience with clients across the lifespan in medical settings and various levels of care in mental and behavioral health. I am a strength-based counselor who takes a person-centered approach and takes the time to develop a strong rapport with my clients. Every client is unique and brings with them their own individual stressors, life circumstances, and stories. I am here to honor that.
View
Photo of Guy Blackstone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evansville, WI
Guy Blackstone
Licensed Professional Counselor, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
Fitchburg, WI 53711
Waitlist for new clients
I help people with anxiety, depression, and chronic illness to get back in control and live the life they want. Our thoughts, memories, feelings, and bodily sensations make life so hard. Do they keep you from doing the things you want? Do you feel so overwhelmed you need to run or to escape? Do they make you regret the way you’ve lived? Do they keep you from people you care about? You don’t have to live this way. We can take steps to put you back in charge of you and your life. My mission is to help you be proud of the person you are, get you doing the things you want, with the people you care about most.
I help people with anxiety, depression, and chronic illness to get back in control and live the life they want. Our thoughts, memories, feelings, and bodily sensations make life so hard. Do they keep you from doing the things you want? Do you feel so overwhelmed you need to run or to escape? Do they make you regret the way you’ve lived? Do they keep you from people you care about? You don’t have to live this way. We can take steps to put you back in charge of you and your life. My mission is to help you be proud of the person you are, get you doing the things you want, with the people you care about most.
(608) 597-6846 View (608) 597-6846
Photo of Karen K Kimball, Psychologist in Evansville, WI
Karen K Kimball
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
I have found hypnosis to be very helpful in successfully treating insomnia, weight loss, smoking cessation, test anxiety, chronic and injury-related pain, relaxation and anxiety reduction (fear of flying).
I love my work: helping individuals and couples solve problems, grow and flourish. We grow by learning mastery; to me this means being competent in dealing with yourself and the outside world. I help clients do this by gaining self-knowledge and learning the skills necessary to be empowered to reach their goals and improve their most important relationships. Since starting my practice in 1983 I have been dedicated to helping clients achieve mastery. I take a very active role, and do "what works" for each client, using a variety of treatment approaches.
I have found hypnosis to be very helpful in successfully treating insomnia, weight loss, smoking cessation, test anxiety, chronic and injury-related pain, relaxation and anxiety reduction (fear of flying).
I love my work: helping individuals and couples solve problems, grow and flourish. We grow by learning mastery; to me this means being competent in dealing with yourself and the outside world. I help clients do this by gaining self-knowledge and learning the skills necessary to be empowered to reach their goals and improve their most important relationships. Since starting my practice in 1983 I have been dedicated to helping clients achieve mastery. I take a very active role, and do "what works" for each client, using a variety of treatment approaches.
(608) 515-5314 View (608) 515-5314
Photo of Carrie Peterson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evansville, WI
Carrie Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Elm Grove, WI 53122
Whether you are seeking help with relationship issues, emotional struggles, or life's problems, therapy can provide you with the tools and understanding to find solutions for your problems and relief from emotional pain.
My therapeutic style is a holistic approach of understanding the mind, body, and spirit connection by incorporating Internal Family Systems (IFS) strategies when necessary. I foster self-awareness and motivation within my clients, and support emotional understanding, which allow you to manifest growth and change. I am transparent and will appropriately self-disclose to help you through a “stuck” place and gain valuable insight into yourself. My work demonstrates a passion for people and their healing journeys, and I will support you in making a connection with yourself while restoring joy to life’s wonderful gifts.
Whether you are seeking help with relationship issues, emotional struggles, or life's problems, therapy can provide you with the tools and understanding to find solutions for your problems and relief from emotional pain.
My therapeutic style is a holistic approach of understanding the mind, body, and spirit connection by incorporating Internal Family Systems (IFS) strategies when necessary. I foster self-awareness and motivation within my clients, and support emotional understanding, which allow you to manifest growth and change. I am transparent and will appropriately self-disclose to help you through a “stuck” place and gain valuable insight into yourself. My work demonstrates a passion for people and their healing journeys, and I will support you in making a connection with yourself while restoring joy to life’s wonderful gifts.
(414) 310-2178 View (414) 310-2178
Photo of Cindy Anderson-Keene, Psychologist in Evansville, WI
Cindy Anderson-Keene
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fitchburg, WI 53719  (Online Only)
I believe in empowering people to grow and change, to help them climb out of mental anguish into a life of hope and meaning. I am passionate about my work, but conscientious, as well. I know how hard it is to engage in therapy, how much courage it takes, and that people do so out of a strong need to end their suffering and pain.
I believe in empowering people to grow and change, to help them climb out of mental anguish into a life of hope and meaning. I am passionate about my work, but conscientious, as well. I know how hard it is to engage in therapy, how much courage it takes, and that people do so out of a strong need to end their suffering and pain.
(608) 650-6996 View (608) 650-6996
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.