Chronic Pain Therapists in Arizona

Photo of Carolyn M. Guajardo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Carolyn M. Guajardo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718
My areas of focus include anxiety, past trauma, life transitions, and chronic pain. These issues can interfere with exciting times in your life, such as higher education, relationships, new employment or parenthood. You may find that these challenges have created hurdles in your life, keeping you from your goals. I will use an evidence based approach along with humor and creativity to help you meet your full potential.
My areas of focus include anxiety, past trauma, life transitions, and chronic pain. These issues can interfere with exciting times in your life, such as higher education, relationships, new employment or parenthood. You may find that these challenges have created hurdles in your life, keeping you from your goals. I will use an evidence based approach along with humor and creativity to help you meet your full potential.
(520) 462-2638 View (520) 462-2638
Photo of Clayton Stephens, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Arizona
Clayton Stephens
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LASAC, MS
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85711
My approach is a results oriented, active, direct, and homework driven style. Addictions often originate from deeper underlying issues such as trauma/PTSD, chronic pain, psychosis, anxiety, and depression. I want to help you accomplish -whatever- goals/values that are uniquely important to you. I genuinely want to help you put the hard work of therapy into achieving real growth. I am part of the neurodivergent/high functioning autistic community. Please scroll down to read my blubs about the evidenced based treatments I use for these struggles. Self compassion is powerful! Book in person (Tucson area) or zoom at my website.
My approach is a results oriented, active, direct, and homework driven style. Addictions often originate from deeper underlying issues such as trauma/PTSD, chronic pain, psychosis, anxiety, and depression. I want to help you accomplish -whatever- goals/values that are uniquely important to you. I genuinely want to help you put the hard work of therapy into achieving real growth. I am part of the neurodivergent/high functioning autistic community. Please scroll down to read my blubs about the evidenced based treatments I use for these struggles. Self compassion is powerful! Book in person (Tucson area) or zoom at my website.
(520) 239-6623 View (520) 239-6623
Photo of Halcyon Health & Wellness in Arizona
Halcyon Health & Wellness
DO
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85382
My ideal patient has either Opioid Dependence, Alcohol Dependence, or Chronic Pain
My ideal patient has either Opioid Dependence, Alcohol Dependence, or Chronic Pain
(623) 244-7787 View (623) 244-7787
Photo of Dr. Chelsie Reed, Counselor in Arizona
Dr. Chelsie Reed
Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85248
Real change. You need it. Build on your strengths and learn life-long skills to overcome the built-up tensions and illness in your life. I believe you can find the strength to conquer any problems you may have, no matter how overwhelming they may seem. I work from a strength-based, client-centered treatment that allows each client to find a therapy for your needs as well as build on current strengths as an individual, couple, or family. .................................................................................................<<<Schedule yourself 24/7 ONLINE for a FREE phone consult or intake session at www.drchelsie.com.>>>
Real change. You need it. Build on your strengths and learn life-long skills to overcome the built-up tensions and illness in your life. I believe you can find the strength to conquer any problems you may have, no matter how overwhelming they may seem. I work from a strength-based, client-centered treatment that allows each client to find a therapy for your needs as well as build on current strengths as an individual, couple, or family. .................................................................................................<<<Schedule yourself 24/7 ONLINE for a FREE phone consult or intake session at www.drchelsie.com.>>>
(480) 712-6631 View (480) 712-6631
Photo of Cristina Yturralde, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Cristina Yturralde
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Brainspotting is an incredible treatment in dealing with traumas, medical trauma or pain.
EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE Hello, glad that you are seeking support. I am here to support families with children and will address issues of early childhood through the teen years and the management of chronic illness. I use play therapy and am a StoryPlay practitioner which is a mind, body spirit approach that focuses on resiliency and inner strengths. I sincerely believe that this approach can help a child/family express themselves and find the strength within them to overcome life's challenges. I use a strength-based approach which promotes hope and healing while honoring the child's needs. I also offer Brainspotting.
Brainspotting is an incredible treatment in dealing with traumas, medical trauma or pain.
EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE Hello, glad that you are seeking support. I am here to support families with children and will address issues of early childhood through the teen years and the management of chronic illness. I use play therapy and am a StoryPlay practitioner which is a mind, body spirit approach that focuses on resiliency and inner strengths. I sincerely believe that this approach can help a child/family express themselves and find the strength within them to overcome life's challenges. I use a strength-based approach which promotes hope and healing while honoring the child's needs. I also offer Brainspotting.
(480) 568-4346 View (480) 568-4346
Photo of Angela Gilchrist Stewart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Angela Gilchrist Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251  (Online Only)
With mindfulness, somatic, and experiential therapies, I help you reconnect with your body and transform trauma and pain into growth.
My name is Angee. I am an LPC with an MA in Professional Mental Health Counseling and a Ph.D. (in progress) in Integrated Mind-Body Medicine, specializing in the holistic treatment of chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and OCD. My practice is committed to helping you navigate the complexities of what you are going through with a comprehensive mind-body approach. I blend traditional and innovative therapies, tailored to meet your individual needs and foster deep healing.
With mindfulness, somatic, and experiential therapies, I help you reconnect with your body and transform trauma and pain into growth.
My name is Angee. I am an LPC with an MA in Professional Mental Health Counseling and a Ph.D. (in progress) in Integrated Mind-Body Medicine, specializing in the holistic treatment of chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and OCD. My practice is committed to helping you navigate the complexities of what you are going through with a comprehensive mind-body approach. I blend traditional and innovative therapies, tailored to meet your individual needs and foster deep healing.
(623) 462-0115 View (623) 462-0115
Photo of Jillian Caldwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Jillian Caldwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085
hidradenitis suppurativa, diabetes, cancer, and chronic pain).
Reaching out for help is the first step to living a better life. I am proud of you for making that step because it is often the hardest one to make. I work from a strengths-based approach to empower you to make whatever changes you would like to make or cope with any problems you are having. Together, we can develop new skills and insights to gain more control over your behaviors and mindset. All this will help you become empowered to explore new possibilities in all areas of your life.
hidradenitis suppurativa, diabetes, cancer, and chronic pain).
Reaching out for help is the first step to living a better life. I am proud of you for making that step because it is often the hardest one to make. I work from a strengths-based approach to empower you to make whatever changes you would like to make or cope with any problems you are having. Together, we can develop new skills and insights to gain more control over your behaviors and mindset. All this will help you become empowered to explore new possibilities in all areas of your life.
(623) 745-8641 View (623) 745-8641
Photo of Dr. Heather A. Okvat, Psychologist in Arizona
Dr. Heather A. Okvat
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85274  (Online Only)
I work with individual adults with a variety of problems in living and believe in intermittent therapy throughout the life course. If you're looking to enhance your self-esteem and self-kindness, learning to be assertive, or wanting to be seen for who you really are - and knowing yourself who this is, I am here to support you. My private practice is small and focused on people coping with anxiety, chronic illness including chronic pain, and depression. It's not easy being a human, and you don't have to go it alone. If you are motivated to better manage life's challenges, I look forward to hearing from you.
I work with individual adults with a variety of problems in living and believe in intermittent therapy throughout the life course. If you're looking to enhance your self-esteem and self-kindness, learning to be assertive, or wanting to be seen for who you really are - and knowing yourself who this is, I am here to support you. My private practice is small and focused on people coping with anxiety, chronic illness including chronic pain, and depression. It's not easy being a human, and you don't have to go it alone. If you are motivated to better manage life's challenges, I look forward to hearing from you.
(480) 531-9809 View (480) 531-9809
Photo of Tara Robin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Tara Robin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSc, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85379  (Online Only)
I am additionally trained in EMDR for chronic pain.
There is light at the end of the tunnel. Often it is hard to see. Sometimes the issues we are dealing with can feel like they are crushing us. The cycle of depression and anxiety might feel never-ending. It can get better! These issues could stem from traumatic life events. Perhaps we are just overwhelmed juggling work, life, and family, and have lost sight of ourselves. Sometimes we struggle to work things out. We all need a little help and guidance at times. I use an integrative approach to assist clients in navigating difficult periods in their lives. I work with adults 18 years and older.
I am additionally trained in EMDR for chronic pain.
There is light at the end of the tunnel. Often it is hard to see. Sometimes the issues we are dealing with can feel like they are crushing us. The cycle of depression and anxiety might feel never-ending. It can get better! These issues could stem from traumatic life events. Perhaps we are just overwhelmed juggling work, life, and family, and have lost sight of ourselves. Sometimes we struggle to work things out. We all need a little help and guidance at times. I use an integrative approach to assist clients in navigating difficult periods in their lives. I work with adults 18 years and older.
(602) 737-3681 View (602) 737-3681
Photo of Painted Desert Psychotherapy, Gwenn Herman, LCSW, , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Painted Desert Psychotherapy, Gwenn Herman, LCSW,
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I have chronic pain due to a car accident over 30 years ago and use what I have learned on my personal journey to help others develop a quality of life.
When I meet someone for the first time, I create a safe place free of judgement and open for them to tell their story. As they speak, I hear their words and voice tone. I look at their face, eyes, hands, feet, whole body, energy and see what they are also telling me. Then I develop a sense of who they are.
I have chronic pain due to a car accident over 30 years ago and use what I have learned on my personal journey to help others develop a quality of life.
When I meet someone for the first time, I create a safe place free of judgement and open for them to tell their story. As they speak, I hear their words and voice tone. I look at their face, eyes, hands, feet, whole body, energy and see what they are also telling me. Then I develop a sense of who they are.
(520) 231-7999 View (520) 231-7999
Photo of Lynda Griffin Bull, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Lynda Griffin Bull
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
If life and all it brings leaves you feeling trapped, fearful, depressed, or overwhelmed, I can help. I offer a safe, collaborative, therapeutic experience, uniquely tailored to meet your needs. Together we will move toward success in managing stress, satisfaction in relationships, enjoyment of life, & well-being. I work with issues related to Depression; Grief/Loss; Women's Issues; Adjustment to Change or Loss; Issues associated with Cancer, Chronic illness and/or Pain; Life Transition Issues & Relational problems. Faith based counseling available. Currently I exclusively offer tele-counseling for clients in Arizona and Virginia.
If life and all it brings leaves you feeling trapped, fearful, depressed, or overwhelmed, I can help. I offer a safe, collaborative, therapeutic experience, uniquely tailored to meet your needs. Together we will move toward success in managing stress, satisfaction in relationships, enjoyment of life, & well-being. I work with issues related to Depression; Grief/Loss; Women's Issues; Adjustment to Change or Loss; Issues associated with Cancer, Chronic illness and/or Pain; Life Transition Issues & Relational problems. Faith based counseling available. Currently I exclusively offer tele-counseling for clients in Arizona and Virginia.
(480) 428-0869 View (480) 428-0869
Photo of Lighthouse Psychology LLC, Psychologist in Arizona
Lighthouse Psychology LLC
Psychologist, PhD, DCEP, EHP-C, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
Dr. Z is a devoted advocate empowering individuals navigating pain and trauma to elevate their quality of life. Renowned for her lectures and educational contributions on a global scale, she caters to a diverse clientele worldwide. Her expertise centers on energy psychology, chronic pain, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, and dream work, delving into the multifaceted dimensions of pain. Acknowledging pain as a comprehensive experience—energetic, mental, emotional, and physical—Dr. Z considers it an intrinsic facet of personal growth. She emphasizes mastering presence, heightened awareness, and proactive choices as fundamental to t
Dr. Z is a devoted advocate empowering individuals navigating pain and trauma to elevate their quality of life. Renowned for her lectures and educational contributions on a global scale, she caters to a diverse clientele worldwide. Her expertise centers on energy psychology, chronic pain, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, and dream work, delving into the multifaceted dimensions of pain. Acknowledging pain as a comprehensive experience—energetic, mental, emotional, and physical—Dr. Z considers it an intrinsic facet of personal growth. She emphasizes mastering presence, heightened awareness, and proactive choices as fundamental to t
(480) 741-2578 View (480) 741-2578
Photo of Beth Freese, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Beth Freese
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
Imagine feeling trapped in chronic pain, stress, anxiety, trauma, or ADHD. You're a driven professional, entrepreneur, or student seeking relief from relentless struggles. You fear you may never regain your true self despite trying various remedies. Coping leaves you drained and hopeless. I've guided countless individuals through similar challenges, helping them reclaim their lives. Let's embark on a journey together to equip you with the tools to confront your challenges, empowering you to regain control and find relief. Your journey to whole self-healing starts now.
Imagine feeling trapped in chronic pain, stress, anxiety, trauma, or ADHD. You're a driven professional, entrepreneur, or student seeking relief from relentless struggles. You fear you may never regain your true self despite trying various remedies. Coping leaves you drained and hopeless. I've guided countless individuals through similar challenges, helping them reclaim their lives. Let's embark on a journey together to equip you with the tools to confront your challenges, empowering you to regain control and find relief. Your journey to whole self-healing starts now.
(602) 560-7159 View (602) 560-7159
Photo of Shoshana Beran, Psychologist in Arizona
Shoshana Beran
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85204
If you struggle with: emotional pain from trauma, anxiety that interferes with living life to the fullest, debilitating depression from loss or chronic pain, obsessive behaviors or worries that block productive thoughts and actions, or have issues related to family, work, or social relationships, I can help!.
I am a New York and Arizona State licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience. I provide individual psychotherapy to older adolescents and adults. I provide insight-oriented therapy. I utilize this approach because it focuses on understanding the connections between your thoughts and feelings in an effort to improve your ability to make change, be in control of your life, and ultimately feel better. I specialize in empowering my clients to confront their issues, gain advanced coping skills, and achieve desired change. I envision therapy as a collaborative effort, and want my clients to feel heard and understood.
If you struggle with: emotional pain from trauma, anxiety that interferes with living life to the fullest, debilitating depression from loss or chronic pain, obsessive behaviors or worries that block productive thoughts and actions, or have issues related to family, work, or social relationships, I can help!.
I am a New York and Arizona State licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience. I provide individual psychotherapy to older adolescents and adults. I provide insight-oriented therapy. I utilize this approach because it focuses on understanding the connections between your thoughts and feelings in an effort to improve your ability to make change, be in control of your life, and ultimately feel better. I specialize in empowering my clients to confront their issues, gain advanced coping skills, and achieve desired change. I envision therapy as a collaborative effort, and want my clients to feel heard and understood.
(914) 266-9773 View (914) 266-9773
Photo of Shira M Hefter, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Arizona
Shira M Hefter
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Begin to feel your feelings, transforming them from pain to wisdom.
You are a current or former dancer, gymnast or athlete. You have undergone intense training and competition. Now, you feel stuck. You feel high demands, yet you are afraid of your power. You want to be successful and notice that you fear failure. You may even fear success. Performance anxiety and overwhelm have gotten the best of you lately. Bullying/distrust with peers or coaches may be something you feel bogged down by. Because you’re a high achiever, you need extra love and support and wish to feel confident. However, relationships both in and outside of your craft feel unsubstantial.
Begin to feel your feelings, transforming them from pain to wisdom.
You are a current or former dancer, gymnast or athlete. You have undergone intense training and competition. Now, you feel stuck. You feel high demands, yet you are afraid of your power. You want to be successful and notice that you fear failure. You may even fear success. Performance anxiety and overwhelm have gotten the best of you lately. Bullying/distrust with peers or coaches may be something you feel bogged down by. Because you’re a high achiever, you need extra love and support and wish to feel confident. However, relationships both in and outside of your craft feel unsubstantial.
(323) 370-0942 View (323) 370-0942
Photo of Dr. Rosalie R Hydock, Psychologist in Arizona
Dr. Rosalie R Hydock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Cognitive therapies have been shown to be highly effective in dealing with life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, bereavement, and chronic pain.
Do you need help dealing with life transitions? Are you trying to cope with relationship conflicts and getting nowhere? Have you been struggling with feelings of anxiety or depression created by the stresses in your life? Do you feel as though your usual coping strategies just aren't working for you anymore? Ready to deal with these in better ways? I can help. I have more than 25 years of experience dealing with human behavior, development, and performance issues, and work with adults, couples, and groups--helping them deal more effectively with life transitions, relationship issues, and other psychological concerns.
Cognitive therapies have been shown to be highly effective in dealing with life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, bereavement, and chronic pain.
Do you need help dealing with life transitions? Are you trying to cope with relationship conflicts and getting nowhere? Have you been struggling with feelings of anxiety or depression created by the stresses in your life? Do you feel as though your usual coping strategies just aren't working for you anymore? Ready to deal with these in better ways? I can help. I have more than 25 years of experience dealing with human behavior, development, and performance issues, and work with adults, couples, and groups--helping them deal more effectively with life transitions, relationship issues, and other psychological concerns.
(480) 788-7931 View (480) 788-7931
Photo of Gerald Whitehawk Transpersonal Therapist in Arizona
Gerald Whitehawk Transpersonal Therapist
MA, BA, CST, CCHt
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I believe that the main cause of mental illness is fragmented awareness and esoteric wisdom centered therapy creates stable self-transformation that integrates good along with the bad in a "sense-of-self-as-part-of-'as-is'-life.
Are you too fatigued, worried, depressed or unable to fall asleep? Are you grieving or experiencing painful flashbacks and overwhelming emotions? Is mind racing and feel that you don't fit in the world, anymore? Are you feeling hopeless and helpless? Conventional, one-size-fits-all therapeutic models lack authenticity, in stark contrast with the uniqueness of individual life. I'm an Esotherapist(tm) and Australian Level 4 Registered Counselor (LPC equivalent) living in US and specializing in PTSD, depression, anxiety/panic, grief, addictions, relationships, existential and identity crises. I am also a clinical hypnotherapist, NLP practitioner and life-coach.
I believe that the main cause of mental illness is fragmented awareness and esoteric wisdom centered therapy creates stable self-transformation that integrates good along with the bad in a "sense-of-self-as-part-of-'as-is'-life.
Are you too fatigued, worried, depressed or unable to fall asleep? Are you grieving or experiencing painful flashbacks and overwhelming emotions? Is mind racing and feel that you don't fit in the world, anymore? Are you feeling hopeless and helpless? Conventional, one-size-fits-all therapeutic models lack authenticity, in stark contrast with the uniqueness of individual life. I'm an Esotherapist(tm) and Australian Level 4 Registered Counselor (LPC equivalent) living in US and specializing in PTSD, depression, anxiety/panic, grief, addictions, relationships, existential and identity crises. I am also a clinical hypnotherapist, NLP practitioner and life-coach.
(520) 447-3263 View (520) 447-3263
Photo of Integrative Mind-Body Solutions, LLC in Arizona
Integrative Mind-Body Solutions, LLC
CHT, RMT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85007  (Online Only)
Suggestions; statements pertaining to the success of the client's goal, tap into the brain mechanisms involved in attention, motor control, pain perception, beliefs and volition.
Helping to uncover the root cause of distress by addressing painful mental states such as avoidance, isolation, people-pleasing, low self-esteem, confusion, worry, stress, and anxiety while working together to come up with a customized plan to manage the situation to feel more in control and live a happier more fulfilling life. Our approach is direct, positive & uplifting using a customized therapeutic approach in a supportive and accepting manner. We believe that through education along with a focused therapeutic approach yields the most successful results and I am there every step of the way.
Suggestions; statements pertaining to the success of the client's goal, tap into the brain mechanisms involved in attention, motor control, pain perception, beliefs and volition.
Helping to uncover the root cause of distress by addressing painful mental states such as avoidance, isolation, people-pleasing, low self-esteem, confusion, worry, stress, and anxiety while working together to come up with a customized plan to manage the situation to feel more in control and live a happier more fulfilling life. Our approach is direct, positive & uplifting using a customized therapeutic approach in a supportive and accepting manner. We believe that through education along with a focused therapeutic approach yields the most successful results and I am there every step of the way.
(415) 787-4912 View (415) 787-4912
Photo of Robyn Merchant in Arizona
Robyn Merchant
YTT 200, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
I also enjoy helping those who suffer from diagnosed/undiagnosed chronic illness find healing through recognizing & understanding the impact of trauma on the whole person.
My name is Robyn, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Arizona and Colorado. I am located in Arizona where I offer in person or virtual sessions and offer virtual sessions to those in Colorado. I have been in the field since 2012. I have experience working in a variety of environments, populations, and diagnoses. I currently work with adults who are recovering from trauma (PTSD, CPTSD, attachment wounding) and experience anxiety, depression, panic, relationship issues, and adjustment issues. My approach to therapy is holistic and focuses on treating the mind, body, and spirit.
I also enjoy helping those who suffer from diagnosed/undiagnosed chronic illness find healing through recognizing & understanding the impact of trauma on the whole person.
My name is Robyn, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Arizona and Colorado. I am located in Arizona where I offer in person or virtual sessions and offer virtual sessions to those in Colorado. I have been in the field since 2012. I have experience working in a variety of environments, populations, and diagnoses. I currently work with adults who are recovering from trauma (PTSD, CPTSD, attachment wounding) and experience anxiety, depression, panic, relationship issues, and adjustment issues. My approach to therapy is holistic and focuses on treating the mind, body, and spirit.
(480) 573-6815 View (480) 573-6815
Photo of Zach Clay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Zach Clay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85248
Children and families are often in need of healing. This belief led me to earn my Master’s degree in Marriage, Family and Child therapy. What I have been most inspired by after 16 years of working in this field has been the capacity for inner resilience that people have shown in the face of emotional pain, adversity, and trauma. Although other traditional modalities may be incorporated (ex, CBT), I predominately use a creative, play-based approach. This includes therapy interventions such as art, games, and sand tray interventions. Together, we’ll journey toward living brighter, happier lives.
Children and families are often in need of healing. This belief led me to earn my Master’s degree in Marriage, Family and Child therapy. What I have been most inspired by after 16 years of working in this field has been the capacity for inner resilience that people have shown in the face of emotional pain, adversity, and trauma. Although other traditional modalities may be incorporated (ex, CBT), I predominately use a creative, play-based approach. This includes therapy interventions such as art, games, and sand tray interventions. Together, we’ll journey toward living brighter, happier lives.
(623) 303-9812 View (623) 303-9812
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.