Chronic Pain Therapists in Jacksonville, FL

Photo of Laura E Elgin, Counselor, LMHC, CCTP, CTMH
Laura E Elgin
Counselor, LMHC, CCTP, CTMH
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
I assist clients who may be facing depression, anxiety, and trauma linked to chronic illness or pain.
I am dedicated, compassionate, and committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve emotional well-being. With a warm and empathetic approach, I offer a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices tailored to your unique needs and goals. I have experience working with diverse populations, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and trauma. I aim to support and empower you with effective tools and insights to help foster resilience & to help you reach your goals.
I assist clients who may be facing depression, anxiety, and trauma linked to chronic illness or pain.
I am dedicated, compassionate, and committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve emotional well-being. With a warm and empathetic approach, I offer a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices tailored to your unique needs and goals. I have experience working with diverse populations, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and trauma. I aim to support and empower you with effective tools and insights to help foster resilience & to help you reach your goals.
(904) 658-4009 View (904) 658-4009
Photo of Nancy St. Claire, Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Nancy St. Claire
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Specialty Areas: PTSD, trauma, anxiety, chronic pain, and life transitions.
I offer empathetic, non-judgmental support to help you achieve your goals. With over 25 years of experience as a licensed counselor and cultural anthropologist, I bring a unique perspective to my work. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, cultural sensitivity, and a deep commitment to helping individuals heal and thrive. I provide telehealth for individuals age 18+ in Florida, Texas, and Arizona. Limited in-person sessions provided in downtown Jacksonville, Florida.
Specialty Areas: PTSD, trauma, anxiety, chronic pain, and life transitions.
I offer empathetic, non-judgmental support to help you achieve your goals. With over 25 years of experience as a licensed counselor and cultural anthropologist, I bring a unique perspective to my work. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, cultural sensitivity, and a deep commitment to helping individuals heal and thrive. I provide telehealth for individuals age 18+ in Florida, Texas, and Arizona. Limited in-person sessions provided in downtown Jacksonville, Florida.
(904) 822-7538 View (904) 822-7538
Photo of Lisa Angel - Lisa Angel, Counseling/Supervision LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, MFT
Lisa Angel, Counseling/Supervision LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, MFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Part of my own story of managing my own chronic/acute pain and illnesses, my 4 audio immune diseases, 3 forms of neurological disorders, and brain damage from a 20" fall in 2017, has prepared me to effectively help you who suffer from chronic illness and chronic pain.
A good fit for me is a client/patient that is ready! Ready to practice being open to new ways of being, thinking, & speaking. The desire for relief is at least a 6/10. Willing and looking forward to practicing new skills like mindfulness, reframing thoughts, & utilizing both the body, mind, & spirit daily. My work with you will be intense & deep mixed with laughter and exploration. If you are willing to take a risk and enter into counseling with me, you will learn a great deal about life in general and yourself. It can be rough in spots but I will show you the ways out that lead to contentment & motivation for change.
Part of my own story of managing my own chronic/acute pain and illnesses, my 4 audio immune diseases, 3 forms of neurological disorders, and brain damage from a 20" fall in 2017, has prepared me to effectively help you who suffer from chronic illness and chronic pain.
A good fit for me is a client/patient that is ready! Ready to practice being open to new ways of being, thinking, & speaking. The desire for relief is at least a 6/10. Willing and looking forward to practicing new skills like mindfulness, reframing thoughts, & utilizing both the body, mind, & spirit daily. My work with you will be intense & deep mixed with laughter and exploration. If you are willing to take a risk and enter into counseling with me, you will learn a great deal about life in general and yourself. It can be rough in spots but I will show you the ways out that lead to contentment & motivation for change.
(904) 572-7112 View (904) 572-7112
Photo of Monica Geers Dahl, License Mental Health Counselor, EdD, LMHC, CHT
Monica Geers Dahl
License Mental Health Counselor, EdD, LMHC, CHT
Online Only
Are you are in acute or chronic pain (physical / mental / emotional / spiritual)
How can I help You? If You are experiencing frustrating life changes, would You prefer to reconnect with the internal wisdom that holds your strengths? If You are feeling stuck repeating old patterns that you find unpleasant, would you like to select more pleasant behaviors and interactions with others? A quick solution, small adjustments, big transformations, or long term compassionate care; allow me to assist You connect with Your internal wisdom. Call for a free phone call and Zoom to explore how I Can Help You
Are you are in acute or chronic pain (physical / mental / emotional / spiritual)
How can I help You? If You are experiencing frustrating life changes, would You prefer to reconnect with the internal wisdom that holds your strengths? If You are feeling stuck repeating old patterns that you find unpleasant, would you like to select more pleasant behaviors and interactions with others? A quick solution, small adjustments, big transformations, or long term compassionate care; allow me to assist You connect with Your internal wisdom. Call for a free phone call and Zoom to explore how I Can Help You
(904) 468-6662 View (904) 468-6662
Photo of Edgar Leopold Anderson, BSN, MSHSA, PhD
Edgar Leopold Anderson
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32258
Self-help for pain, smoking cessation, craving, anger, tinnitus, stress management, allergies, anxiety and depression.
Having a tough time? Like to take charge of your life in a relaxed manner? Reach enlightenment through self-management of hypnosis, biofeedback, Chakra meditation, acupressure and sound therapy. I see addicted and non-addicted patients to resolve symptomatic complaints. Here's your chance to explore self-healing properties. Sessions $160 (cash/check). Treatment continues until an agreed upon level of relief has been reached. Out of network health insurance available. Use video + teletherapy for most sessions. Please call free for consultations and more details.
Self-help for pain, smoking cessation, craving, anger, tinnitus, stress management, allergies, anxiety and depression.
Having a tough time? Like to take charge of your life in a relaxed manner? Reach enlightenment through self-management of hypnosis, biofeedback, Chakra meditation, acupressure and sound therapy. I see addicted and non-addicted patients to resolve symptomatic complaints. Here's your chance to explore self-healing properties. Sessions $160 (cash/check). Treatment continues until an agreed upon level of relief has been reached. Out of network health insurance available. Use video + teletherapy for most sessions. Please call free for consultations and more details.
(904) 551-1394 View (904) 551-1394
Photo of Alana Sadhu Christianson, Counselor, LMHC, MA, CDAC
Alana Sadhu Christianson
Counselor, LMHC, MA, CDAC
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
My various specialties are providing therapeutic guidance and support from a peer-based & evidence-based lens to those facing chronic pain conditions, chronic illnesses, those who deal with perfectionism, ethnic minorities, first-generation Americans, couples looking to improve their relationship, treating survivors of narcissistic abuse, and complex-PTSD.
If you feel like you just can't seem to find the right therapist for you, give me a call. I will happily provide a free consultation over the phone or virtually, even if I am not the person for you I can guide you in the direction you would like to go! Finding the right therapist for you is half the battle and it is a vulnerable and sometimes challenging process. I respect the fact that picking up the phone or even going on this website is nerve wracking and I know that it took a lot to even get you here. I am an unconventional therapist. I guide treatment with empathy first. I utilize evidence-based techniques unique to your needs.
My various specialties are providing therapeutic guidance and support from a peer-based & evidence-based lens to those facing chronic pain conditions, chronic illnesses, those who deal with perfectionism, ethnic minorities, first-generation Americans, couples looking to improve their relationship, treating survivors of narcissistic abuse, and complex-PTSD.
If you feel like you just can't seem to find the right therapist for you, give me a call. I will happily provide a free consultation over the phone or virtually, even if I am not the person for you I can guide you in the direction you would like to go! Finding the right therapist for you is half the battle and it is a vulnerable and sometimes challenging process. I respect the fact that picking up the phone or even going on this website is nerve wracking and I know that it took a lot to even get you here. I am an unconventional therapist. I guide treatment with empathy first. I utilize evidence-based techniques unique to your needs.
(321) 221-5090 View (321) 221-5090
Photo of Patricia Behn-Wright, Counselor, MA, ATR, LMHC
Patricia Behn-Wright
Counselor, MA, ATR, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I’ve worked with clients of all ages on issues like mood disorders, chronic pain, trauma, PTSD, stress, anger management, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, parenting, grief, addictions, and codependency.
As an art therapist, I use a person-centered approach that blends art (sand tray, drawing, painting) with mindfulness, CBT, and play therapy. Art is a powerful tool to express experiences and foster healing. My specialties include trauma, chronic pain, and self-esteem, helping you break through systemic constraints to discover your inner strength.
I’ve worked with clients of all ages on issues like mood disorders, chronic pain, trauma, PTSD, stress, anger management, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, parenting, grief, addictions, and codependency.
As an art therapist, I use a person-centered approach that blends art (sand tray, drawing, painting) with mindfulness, CBT, and play therapy. Art is a powerful tool to express experiences and foster healing. My specialties include trauma, chronic pain, and self-esteem, helping you break through systemic constraints to discover your inner strength.
(813) 669-0838 View (813) 669-0838
Photo of Shannon Jaycox, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shannon Jaycox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32207
I provide counseling to individuals and their families who are facing difficulty with stress, adjusting to change, mood and anxiety disorders, addiction, chronic pain and trauma.
My practice draws from a broad range of modalities including cognitive-behavioural therapy, strengths-based approach and mindfulness. I strive to create a supportive environment by focusing on the therapeutic relationship and meeting clients at whatever stage of readiness they might be in.
I provide counseling to individuals and their families who are facing difficulty with stress, adjusting to change, mood and anxiety disorders, addiction, chronic pain and trauma.
My practice draws from a broad range of modalities including cognitive-behavioural therapy, strengths-based approach and mindfulness. I strive to create a supportive environment by focusing on the therapeutic relationship and meeting clients at whatever stage of readiness they might be in.
(904) 290-1105 View (904) 290-1105
Photo of Dr. Teresa Young - Generations Psychological & Consultation Services , Psychologist, PhD
Are you having a hard time adjusting to a chronic illness?
I provide psychotherapy in the following modalities: individual, couples, family, and group. I will help you examine personal, familial, and socio-cultural dynamics impacting your adjustment to aging, chronic illness, acquired disability, and care-giving.
Are you having a hard time adjusting to a chronic illness?
I provide psychotherapy in the following modalities: individual, couples, family, and group. I will help you examine personal, familial, and socio-cultural dynamics impacting your adjustment to aging, chronic illness, acquired disability, and care-giving.
(904) 830-6570 View (904) 830-6570
Photo of Connie Hunt Worthy - Connie Worthy - EMDR Intensive Therapist, Counselor, LMHC, QS, CYT-200
Connie Worthy - EMDR Intensive Therapist
Counselor, LMHC, QS, CYT-200
5 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32205
I see therapy as a return to yourself - a remembering of your wholeness beneath the noise of pain, pressure, and the past.
I currently offer therapy intensives as stand-alone journeys or an adjunct to ongoing therapy with your primary therapist. These spacious sessions allow for deep, focused work where you’ll be held gently and intentionally, without the stop-and-start of traditional 50-minute sessions.
I see therapy as a return to yourself - a remembering of your wholeness beneath the noise of pain, pressure, and the past.
I currently offer therapy intensives as stand-alone journeys or an adjunct to ongoing therapy with your primary therapist. These spacious sessions allow for deep, focused work where you’ll be held gently and intentionally, without the stop-and-start of traditional 50-minute sessions.
(904) 474-3179 View (904) 474-3179
Photo of Melanie Juli, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Melanie Juli
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My specialties include marriage and relationship issues, family systems issues, co-dependency, addiction, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and chronic pain.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned a BA in Interdisciplinary Arts and Humanities from Florida Atlantic University in 2009. I then went on to earn a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University in 2012, which I did in 2013. I have had experience working with a variety of different clients in multiple settings. I have extensive experience treating clients with addiction disorders as well as working with their families and loved ones who are working on their own program of recovery as well.
My specialties include marriage and relationship issues, family systems issues, co-dependency, addiction, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and chronic pain.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned a BA in Interdisciplinary Arts and Humanities from Florida Atlantic University in 2009. I then went on to earn a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University in 2012, which I did in 2013. I have had experience working with a variety of different clients in multiple settings. I have extensive experience treating clients with addiction disorders as well as working with their families and loved ones who are working on their own program of recovery as well.
(321) 710-0407 View (321) 710-0407
Photo of Nada Frazier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Nada Frazier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jacksonville, FL 32216
I support people in planning/adjusting to life transitions such as loss, grieving, coping with a diagnosis/chronic illness (patient &/or loved ones) and pain, caregiving, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, and depression.
Each client I work with is unique and an expert in their life. I utilize evidence-based practices, including integrative, strengths-based, mindfulness-based modalities, stress reduction and resiliency, motivational interviewing, narrative, cognitive behavior, cognitive processing, feminist, and solution-focused brief therapy.
I support people in planning/adjusting to life transitions such as loss, grieving, coping with a diagnosis/chronic illness (patient &/or loved ones) and pain, caregiving, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, and depression.
Each client I work with is unique and an expert in their life. I utilize evidence-based practices, including integrative, strengths-based, mindfulness-based modalities, stress reduction and resiliency, motivational interviewing, narrative, cognitive behavior, cognitive processing, feminist, and solution-focused brief therapy.
(904) 849-9704 View (904) 849-9704
Photo of Rebecca Buch, Counselor, MS, LMHC, NPT-C
Rebecca Buch
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NPT-C
Jacksonville, FL 32256
I have success with helping clients recover from the pain of loss, divorce, separation, and empty nest syndrome.
I have the flexibility to meet your needs. We can meet at my office or from the comfort and convenience of your home, dorm room, or your private office; I can bring my services to you via telehealth with a user-friendly portal you can access on your phone/smart device, or computer. Never miss an appointment with email reminders.
I have success with helping clients recover from the pain of loss, divorce, separation, and empty nest syndrome.
I have the flexibility to meet your needs. We can meet at my office or from the comfort and convenience of your home, dorm room, or your private office; I can bring my services to you via telehealth with a user-friendly portal you can access on your phone/smart device, or computer. Never miss an appointment with email reminders.
(904) 664-4645 View (904) 664-4645
Photo of Hannah Bose, Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI, E-CYT
Hannah Bose
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI, E-CYT
Jacksonville, FL 32205
I work with motivated clients ready to grow through trauma, panic, OCD, anxiety, stress, acute and chronic illness, chronic pain, and relationship issues.
I integrate Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems with other evidence-based modalities. Brainspotting, a neurobiological approach, allows us to access and process trauma and stress stored in the nervous system. Combined with the transformative insights of IFS therapy, we explore the internal dynamics of the mind, fostering self-compassion and harmony.
I work with motivated clients ready to grow through trauma, panic, OCD, anxiety, stress, acute and chronic illness, chronic pain, and relationship issues.
I integrate Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems with other evidence-based modalities. Brainspotting, a neurobiological approach, allows us to access and process trauma and stress stored in the nervous system. Combined with the transformative insights of IFS therapy, we explore the internal dynamics of the mind, fostering self-compassion and harmony.
View
Photo of Lisa Strahler, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHCI, NCC
Lisa Strahler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHCI, NCC
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
I am certified in Neuro Emotional Technique (NET), which can be an effective option to help with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, chronic pain, and grief.
I help adults and teens navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and a variety of life’s challenges. I have a heart for first responders, active-duty military, and veterans, honoring the demands they face. I also offer Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), a powerful, evidence-based approach that can bring rapid relief from trauma and distress.
I am certified in Neuro Emotional Technique (NET), which can be an effective option to help with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, chronic pain, and grief.
I help adults and teens navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and a variety of life’s challenges. I have a heart for first responders, active-duty military, and veterans, honoring the demands they face. I also offer Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), a powerful, evidence-based approach that can bring rapid relief from trauma and distress.
(904) 822-8463 View (904) 822-8463
Photo of Walter Mcclinton - Walter McClinton RMHCI, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Walter McClinton RMHCI
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32258
Ideally, I want the client to be willing to peel back those layers of pain through understanding, believing truly in themselves along with what they are willing to work towards.
Start with a plan. More actions than talking. Goal focus and oriented. The client successes are catered, geared, and tailored therapeutic-wise more for lifetime achievements. Certified in AMSR (Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk), as well as a 12-Step Facilitator Outpatient Program Certified Instructor (NA/NA) and also Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT)
Ideally, I want the client to be willing to peel back those layers of pain through understanding, believing truly in themselves along with what they are willing to work towards.
Start with a plan. More actions than talking. Goal focus and oriented. The client successes are catered, geared, and tailored therapeutic-wise more for lifetime achievements. Certified in AMSR (Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk), as well as a 12-Step Facilitator Outpatient Program Certified Instructor (NA/NA) and also Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT)
(904) 966-4707 View (904) 966-4707
Photo of Jamie Thompson - Brook Bend Counseling; , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Brook Bend Counseling;
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Online Only
Are you finding it hard to balance relationships and a career, while feeling overwhelmed by things like infertility, chronic pain, heart conditions, endometriosis and other health issues?
You are probably reaching out because you are feeling stretched thin and aren't sure what steps to take next. You are in a job that you aren't sure can support your mental health needs. You found the person you wanted to start a family with, yet you are feeling increasing distance from your partner, due to the stress involved with infertility treatments.
Are you finding it hard to balance relationships and a career, while feeling overwhelmed by things like infertility, chronic pain, heart conditions, endometriosis and other health issues?
You are probably reaching out because you are feeling stretched thin and aren't sure what steps to take next. You are in a job that you aren't sure can support your mental health needs. You found the person you wanted to start a family with, yet you are feeling increasing distance from your partner, due to the stress involved with infertility treatments.
(904) 478-9670 View (904) 478-9670
Photo of Christy Holliday, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Christy Holliday
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Jacksonville, FL 32256
I have extensive training and study in Mind Body Pain Psychology, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, Attachment Theory and Somatic Experiencing.
My desire is to provide each client the opportunity to find HOPE. Hope for understanding, healing and growth. Hope for freedom, joy, and peace. Hope for wholeness and real, true rest. The truth is, life is hard. We often find ourselves confused, disillusioned, disappointed, angry, sad, afraid, addicted or simply numb to it all. The process of counseling can and does often lead a person to a place of newfound hope, where one can experience the broken parts of their stories and relationships restored.
I have extensive training and study in Mind Body Pain Psychology, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, Attachment Theory and Somatic Experiencing.
My desire is to provide each client the opportunity to find HOPE. Hope for understanding, healing and growth. Hope for freedom, joy, and peace. Hope for wholeness and real, true rest. The truth is, life is hard. We often find ourselves confused, disillusioned, disappointed, angry, sad, afraid, addicted or simply numb to it all. The process of counseling can and does often lead a person to a place of newfound hope, where one can experience the broken parts of their stories and relationships restored.
(352) 478-4519 View (352) 478-4519
Photo of Jessica Bell - Mosaic Minds Counseling, LLC
Mosaic Minds Counseling, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Additional specializations that some of our clinicians have are within the areas of grief, depression, ADHD, processing chronic illnesses/ chronic pain, processing family dynamics, attachment issues, and more.
At Mosaic Minds Counseling, we want you to feel at ease discussing sensitive topics with your therapist so that together, you can work through whatever challenges you're facing. Our therapists create a safe space for whatever needs to be addressed and are always open to feedback from clients about the relationship and therapy process.
Additional specializations that some of our clinicians have are within the areas of grief, depression, ADHD, processing chronic illnesses/ chronic pain, processing family dynamics, attachment issues, and more.
At Mosaic Minds Counseling, we want you to feel at ease discussing sensitive topics with your therapist so that together, you can work through whatever challenges you're facing. Our therapists create a safe space for whatever needs to be addressed and are always open to feedback from clients about the relationship and therapy process.
(904) 467-4668 View (904) 467-4668
Photo of Lore Goldstein, Counselor, LMHC
Lore Goldstein
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
I hold additional trainings/certifications in the following: EMDR, Bachelor of Naturopathic Studies, EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique - Tapping), New Healers Master Coaching Program, 200HR yoga and meditation teacher training, Polyvagal Theory, and Chronic Pain.
You’re an accomplished professional. You’re driven, reliable, and can get things done – yet underneath it all, you feel anxious, exhausted, and oddly unfulfilled or even depressed. On paper and to others, your life looks great! But inside, you are a hot mess. Your mind won’t shut up. It’s constantly bothering you about what’s wrong, what still needs doing, what you should have done better 3 years ago, and guilts you into doing more. You lie awake at night replaying conversations, second-guessing decisions, and ruminating over mistakes. Even your body is in knots. You've achieved a lot, but somehow it doesn't feel all that awesome.
I hold additional trainings/certifications in the following: EMDR, Bachelor of Naturopathic Studies, EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique - Tapping), New Healers Master Coaching Program, 200HR yoga and meditation teacher training, Polyvagal Theory, and Chronic Pain.
You’re an accomplished professional. You’re driven, reliable, and can get things done – yet underneath it all, you feel anxious, exhausted, and oddly unfulfilled or even depressed. On paper and to others, your life looks great! But inside, you are a hot mess. Your mind won’t shut up. It’s constantly bothering you about what’s wrong, what still needs doing, what you should have done better 3 years ago, and guilts you into doing more. You lie awake at night replaying conversations, second-guessing decisions, and ruminating over mistakes. Even your body is in knots. You've achieved a lot, but somehow it doesn't feel all that awesome.
(904) 688-8314 View (904) 688-8314

See more therapy options for Jacksonville

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.