Chronic Pain Therapists in Milwaukee, WI

Photo of Kal Wogahn, Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Kal Wogahn
Counselor, MA, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53233  (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed by emotions or physical symptoms, such as hopelessness, pain, or panic? Does the thought of being present with your body feel uncomfortable or even scary? In my work, I help folks of all backgrounds find a sense of safety in their body after experiences of trauma, chronic pain, and body-based oppression (transphobia, anti-fat bias, ableism, racism, etc.). We’ll work together to understand and befriend your nervous system and build upon experiences of safety and connection to promote healing and emotional well-being.
Do you feel overwhelmed by emotions or physical symptoms, such as hopelessness, pain, or panic? Does the thought of being present with your body feel uncomfortable or even scary? In my work, I help folks of all backgrounds find a sense of safety in their body after experiences of trauma, chronic pain, and body-based oppression (transphobia, anti-fat bias, ableism, racism, etc.). We’ll work together to understand and befriend your nervous system and build upon experiences of safety and connection to promote healing and emotional well-being.
(608) 655-6778 View (608) 655-6778
Photo of Gretchen Mead in Milwaukee, WI
Gretchen Mead
LCSW, CYT
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53211
I'd like to support you on your journey while you grow resilient from past pain, learn from relationship mistakes, ease yourself through stressful times, and carry the weight of the world when you must, all while moving through the discomfort toward a happier, healthier, and more robust version of your best self.
Currently accepting clients for ketamine assisted psychotherapy and psychedelic integration and psychotherapy. I would like the opportunity support you in reaching your fullest potential. By helping you reduce your symptoms of sadness, anxiety, anger, lethargy, and trauma, then replacing those symptoms with a life filled with health, wellness, joy, love, creativity, relationships and passion. As a uniquely trained ecotherapist, psychedelic integration specialist and yoga teacher, I bring a holistic perspective to mental health - including deeply connecting to our own mind, body and spirit, others, the earth, and a larger purpose.
I'd like to support you on your journey while you grow resilient from past pain, learn from relationship mistakes, ease yourself through stressful times, and carry the weight of the world when you must, all while moving through the discomfort toward a happier, healthier, and more robust version of your best self.
Currently accepting clients for ketamine assisted psychotherapy and psychedelic integration and psychotherapy. I would like the opportunity support you in reaching your fullest potential. By helping you reduce your symptoms of sadness, anxiety, anger, lethargy, and trauma, then replacing those symptoms with a life filled with health, wellness, joy, love, creativity, relationships and passion. As a uniquely trained ecotherapist, psychedelic integration specialist and yoga teacher, I bring a holistic perspective to mental health - including deeply connecting to our own mind, body and spirit, others, the earth, and a larger purpose.
(262) 239-7820 View (262) 239-7820
Photo of India Gray-Schmiedlin, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
India Gray-Schmiedlin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53216  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are struggling with Depression, PTSD, Anxiety, insomnia, self esteem issues, suicidal thoughts, or you need help coping with chronic pain, or other chronic illnesses; you are not alone, healing is possible and help is available.
Whether you are struggling with Depression, PTSD, Anxiety, insomnia, self esteem issues, suicidal thoughts, or you need help coping with chronic pain, or other chronic illnesses; you are not alone, healing is possible and help is available.
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Photo of Tammy M Beran, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
Tammy M Beran
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53204
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Beran is a licensed Clinical Psychologist who has been providing evidence-based psychological care to individuals for the last 17 years. She received her PhD from the nation’s most highly rated clinical psychology program, UCLA, where she gained extensive experience helping people with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, chronic illness, trauma, and grief. A firm believer that academic knowledge is only part of what makes a quality therapist, Dr. Beran combines her in-depth psychological training with warmth, humor, and affection for her clients.
Dr. Beran is a licensed Clinical Psychologist who has been providing evidence-based psychological care to individuals for the last 17 years. She received her PhD from the nation’s most highly rated clinical psychology program, UCLA, where she gained extensive experience helping people with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, chronic illness, trauma, and grief. A firm believer that academic knowledge is only part of what makes a quality therapist, Dr. Beran combines her in-depth psychological training with warmth, humor, and affection for her clients.
(414) 206-1901 View (414) 206-1901
Photo of Jessica J. Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, 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 Heather Ann Hodorowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, 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.
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Photo of Karen Loka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, 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 Maria Erdmann-Rodriguez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Maria Erdmann-Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53224
Dr. Maria Erdmann Rodriguez is a psychotherapist of over 20 years experience. A specialist in treating mood-regulation disorders, Dr. Rodriguez has special interest and expertise in the psychological care of patients with chronic pain and other medical conditions. As a chronic pain sufferer herself, Dr. Rodriguez has personal insight into the unique needs and challenges facing those with invisible and chronic medical illness. Additional interests include the treatment of relationship issues, mood and anxiety related to the perinatal period, trauma, life-transition challenges, and grief .
Dr. Maria Erdmann Rodriguez is a psychotherapist of over 20 years experience. A specialist in treating mood-regulation disorders, Dr. Rodriguez has special interest and expertise in the psychological care of patients with chronic pain and other medical conditions. As a chronic pain sufferer herself, Dr. Rodriguez has personal insight into the unique needs and challenges facing those with invisible and chronic medical illness. Additional interests include the treatment of relationship issues, mood and anxiety related to the perinatal period, trauma, life-transition challenges, and grief .
(262) 588-4063 View (262) 588-4063
Photo of Dr. Constanz Hartney, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
Dr. Constanz Hartney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53220
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 Be Well Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Be Well Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53212
Does being in love mean being in pain? Are you and your significant other having a hard time communicating or getting your needs met? Are you confused, anxious, sad or angry? Are you feeling less motivated? Having difficulty concentrating or sleeping? Do you feel distracted and find it hard to follow through? Are you questioning your goals or feel stuck? Are you questioning your family of origin and feel you have issues from the past that are unresolved? Are you grieving the loss of someone? Do you worry about yourself or your significant other and their bad habits? Are you a survivor?
Does being in love mean being in pain? Are you and your significant other having a hard time communicating or getting your needs met? Are you confused, anxious, sad or angry? Are you feeling less motivated? Having difficulty concentrating or sleeping? Do you feel distracted and find it hard to follow through? Are you questioning your goals or feel stuck? Are you questioning your family of origin and feel you have issues from the past that are unresolved? Are you grieving the loss of someone? Do you worry about yourself or your significant other and their bad habits? Are you a survivor?
(414) 501-2664 View (414) 501-2664
Photo of Casey Wright, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
Casey Wright
Psychologist, LP
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53217
Wright also has very unique expertise in psychology applied to dental issues such as dental fear/anxiety, orofacial pain, etc.
Dr. Casey Wright is a Psychologist in Wisconsin who has been providing mental health services since 2016. He earned his PhD in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in health psychology at West Virginia University and completed a residency in behavioral medicine/rehabilitation psychology at the University of Washington. Dr. Wright is broadly trained in cognitive behavioral interventions but is heavily influenced by humanistic thinking and incorporates motivational interviewing into his clinical work. He believes clients and patients have what they need to feel better and that together they can work to find it.
Wright also has very unique expertise in psychology applied to dental issues such as dental fear/anxiety, orofacial pain, etc.
Dr. Casey Wright is a Psychologist in Wisconsin who has been providing mental health services since 2016. He earned his PhD in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in health psychology at West Virginia University and completed a residency in behavioral medicine/rehabilitation psychology at the University of Washington. Dr. Wright is broadly trained in cognitive behavioral interventions but is heavily influenced by humanistic thinking and incorporates motivational interviewing into his clinical work. He believes clients and patients have what they need to feel better and that together they can work to find it.
(262) 392-8639 View (262) 392-8639
Photo of Brian Martinezdelacotera, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Brian Martinezdelacotera
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53217
Brian is an exceptionally open, kind-hearted therapist providing emotional safety for clients to explore their concerns. With warmth and humor, he assists clients struggling with a wide range of concerns including substance dependence, anxiety, depression, self-worth, trauma, conflicts, and family or other relationship issues. Brian utilizes an integrative approach with his clients, combining elements of solution-focused, cognitive behavior therapy, and therapy to heal family-of-origin pain and trauma.
Brian is an exceptionally open, kind-hearted therapist providing emotional safety for clients to explore their concerns. With warmth and humor, he assists clients struggling with a wide range of concerns including substance dependence, anxiety, depression, self-worth, trauma, conflicts, and family or other relationship issues. Brian utilizes an integrative approach with his clients, combining elements of solution-focused, cognitive behavior therapy, and therapy to heal family-of-origin pain and trauma.
(262) 217-7898 View (262) 217-7898
Photo of Ann Lawrence, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
Ann Lawrence
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53226
My approaches include: 1) working toward understanding how your life experiences have come together to bring about your current thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and life circumstances; 2) using concrete and structured homework assignments to help you achieve your goals, resolve relationship issues, find greater happiness, and develop greater control over anxiety, depression, or anger; 3) discussing philosophical and existential aspects of life as they relate to your concerns; 4) providing support and empathy when life brings you hardship or pain; and 5) helping you to articulate your needs, desires, and goals, and to develop plans and solutions to help you satisfy them.
My approaches include: 1) working toward understanding how your life experiences have come together to bring about your current thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and life circumstances; 2) using concrete and structured homework assignments to help you achieve your goals, resolve relationship issues, find greater happiness, and develop greater control over anxiety, depression, or anger; 3) discussing philosophical and existential aspects of life as they relate to your concerns; 4) providing support and empathy when life brings you hardship or pain; and 5) helping you to articulate your needs, desires, and goals, and to develop plans and solutions to help you satisfy them.
(414) 269-4294 View (414) 269-4294
Photo of Cedar Lake Counseling in Milwaukee, WI
Cedar Lake Counseling
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53217
FREE PHONE CONSULTATIONS WITH DR. BLOEMER* will help establish your appointment with a best-fit therapist among our twelve therapists, who possess up to 30 years of experience. Specializations include Advanced Therapies (Brain-based treatment) for complex trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, emotional pain, addictions and more. As symptom relief is achieved as quickly as possible, we assist in helping you improve your significant relationships and support your efforts toward achieving holistic awareness, life balance, and meaningful, personal growth.
FREE PHONE CONSULTATIONS WITH DR. BLOEMER* will help establish your appointment with a best-fit therapist among our twelve therapists, who possess up to 30 years of experience. Specializations include Advanced Therapies (Brain-based treatment) for complex trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, emotional pain, addictions and more. As symptom relief is achieved as quickly as possible, we assist in helping you improve your significant relationships and support your efforts toward achieving holistic awareness, life balance, and meaningful, personal growth.
(262) 947-4378 View (262) 947-4378
Photo of Jeanne Denney in Milwaukee, WI
Jeanne Denney
MA, CCE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
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 Lisa Woods, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Lisa Woods
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ADHD-, CCSP
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53201
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a queer-identified EMDR-trained licensed professional counselor with a background working with depression, anxiety, disordered eating, and chronic pain. Areas of focus include social/emotional aspects of bariatrics, neurodivergence, disability, and long Covid. My person-centered integrative approach draws from Buddhist Psychology, and Narrative Therapy.
I'm a queer-identified EMDR-trained licensed professional counselor with a background working with depression, anxiety, disordered eating, and chronic pain. Areas of focus include social/emotional aspects of bariatrics, neurodivergence, disability, and long Covid. My person-centered integrative approach draws from Buddhist Psychology, and Narrative Therapy.
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Photo of Mary W Ferguson, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
Mary W Ferguson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53209
I feel honored and fortunate to be a psychologist. I love working with people to find their best selves, to set boundaries and to improve their lives in whatever way is best for them. I have an intimate, comfortable office in Mequon, WI, and I also offer virtual therapy for those who prefer the comfort of therapy in their own homes/offices. My ideal client is anyone who is coping with past trauma, dealing with chronic illness, or who is trying to manage complex personality traits in themselves or others. My ideal client is motivated to work on themselves, or to learn how to help themselves manage a loved ones' complicated behavior.
I feel honored and fortunate to be a psychologist. I love working with people to find their best selves, to set boundaries and to improve their lives in whatever way is best for them. I have an intimate, comfortable office in Mequon, WI, and I also offer virtual therapy for those who prefer the comfort of therapy in their own homes/offices. My ideal client is anyone who is coping with past trauma, dealing with chronic illness, or who is trying to manage complex personality traits in themselves or others. My ideal client is motivated to work on themselves, or to learn how to help themselves manage a loved ones' complicated behavior.
(262) 624-0835 View (262) 624-0835
Photo of Karen K Kimball, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
Karen K Kimball
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53201
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 Schuessler, Pre-Licensed Professional in Milwaukee, WI
Carrie Schuessler
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW-IT
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53212
I am a chronic pain and illness therapist. I primarily work with adolescents, young adults, and middle-aged humans whose lives have been turned upside down by a crippling diagnosis and/or unexpected symptoms. Anxiety, depression, PTSD & heartbreak, are also all in my wheelhouse. I love incorporating spirituality into therapy and provide Christian counseling when that is a need expressed.
I am a chronic pain and illness therapist. I primarily work with adolescents, young adults, and middle-aged humans whose lives have been turned upside down by a crippling diagnosis and/or unexpected symptoms. Anxiety, depression, PTSD & heartbreak, are also all in my wheelhouse. I love incorporating spirituality into therapy and provide Christian counseling when that is a need expressed.
(262) 302-3686 View (262) 302-3686
Photo of Areta Wasiunec, Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Areta Wasiunec
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53201
I have expertise in (but not limited to) these areas: anxiety, depression, disordered eating and body image, couples, relationships, life transitions, chronic pain, grief, trauma, stress, health/wellness.
I bring nearly ten years of experience in guiding adults and teens through their therapy journeys. My background spans inpatient hospital settings, outpatient community health centers, specialized outpatient clinics, and private practice, equipping me with a broad perspective on mental wellness. I hold a holistic view of therapy and emphasize the importance of nurturing overall health and wellness. I encourage clients to examine their habits, relationship dynamics, and lifestyle choices as integral components of mental health. I empower clients to uncover and overcome the barriers to their personal growth.
I have expertise in (but not limited to) these areas: anxiety, depression, disordered eating and body image, couples, relationships, life transitions, chronic pain, grief, trauma, stress, health/wellness.
I bring nearly ten years of experience in guiding adults and teens through their therapy journeys. My background spans inpatient hospital settings, outpatient community health centers, specialized outpatient clinics, and private practice, equipping me with a broad perspective on mental wellness. I hold a holistic view of therapy and emphasize the importance of nurturing overall health and wellness. I encourage clients to examine their habits, relationship dynamics, and lifestyle choices as integral components of mental health. I empower clients to uncover and overcome the barriers to their personal growth.
(773) 825-5243 View (773) 825-5243

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.