Photo of Dr. Liz Gruber, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Liz Gruber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32792
Whether from childhood sexual abuse, debilitating chronic pain or other life experiences, oftentimes we experience deep feelings of not being "enough" that shows up in different ways such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, & much more. Regardless of our identities, a lot of us are taught that vulnerability is a weakness and self-silencing “should be” prioritized. Avoidance of emotional pain can then become very natural whether conscious or not, but is costly to your physical & mental well-being. Want to reclaim your life from Anxiety, Pain, Illness, & Depression? Are you ready to heal your relationship with Food & Your Body?
Whether from childhood sexual abuse, debilitating chronic pain or other life experiences, oftentimes we experience deep feelings of not being "enough" that shows up in different ways such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, & much more. Regardless of our identities, a lot of us are taught that vulnerability is a weakness and self-silencing “should be” prioritized. Avoidance of emotional pain can then become very natural whether conscious or not, but is costly to your physical & mental well-being. Want to reclaim your life from Anxiety, Pain, Illness, & Depression? Are you ready to heal your relationship with Food & Your Body?
(954) 866-5158 View (954) 866-5158
Photo of Darlene Treese, PhD, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Darlene Treese
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32835  (Online Only)
Are you suffering from DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, ANGER or ADDICTIONS? Is it interfering with your relationships and quality of life? High achievers know that the Sub-conscious mind holds negative thoughts that sabotage positive changes. Let's eliminate these roadblocks so everything works for you and nothing works against you. Hypnosis - approved by the AMA in 1958 - is effective for Anxiety, Depression, Pain, Migraines, IBS, Weight, Negative habits and Stress Management. My treatments are effective to overcome fears/phobias and improve self confidence, health and well-being. Let me help you become more focused, relaxed, healthy and successful!
Are you suffering from DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, ANGER or ADDICTIONS? Is it interfering with your relationships and quality of life? High achievers know that the Sub-conscious mind holds negative thoughts that sabotage positive changes. Let's eliminate these roadblocks so everything works for you and nothing works against you. Hypnosis - approved by the AMA in 1958 - is effective for Anxiety, Depression, Pain, Migraines, IBS, Weight, Negative habits and Stress Management. My treatments are effective to overcome fears/phobias and improve self confidence, health and well-being. Let me help you become more focused, relaxed, healthy and successful!
(407) 278-1598 View (407) 278-1598
Photo of Dorrit Ram, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dorrit Ram
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803
If you are having a difficult time dealing and would like to speak to someone to clarify your thoughts or figure out what to do next, it might be a good time to reach out for therapy. A lot of people feel isolated with their problems and have nobody to turn to about what really matters to them. You may feel like your past is not letting you have any peace and looking to move forward. Life is difficult and learning how to cope with the ups and downs is important, especially if you have been diagnosed with a mental illness like depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, etc. or have suffered a loss or setback in your personal life.
If you are having a difficult time dealing and would like to speak to someone to clarify your thoughts or figure out what to do next, it might be a good time to reach out for therapy. A lot of people feel isolated with their problems and have nobody to turn to about what really matters to them. You may feel like your past is not letting you have any peace and looking to move forward. Life is difficult and learning how to cope with the ups and downs is important, especially if you have been diagnosed with a mental illness like depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, etc. or have suffered a loss or setback in your personal life.
(689) 407-6195 View (689) 407-6195
Photo of Tara Travia, PhD, Psychologist
Tara Travia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32809  (Online Only)
I help highly motivated, successful, but struggling clients looking for a deeper resolution to their pain, anxiety, and distraction.
Everyone thinks you have it all together, but you feel like one slip and it will all fall apart. You have worked so hard for the amazing life you have and yet, the peace you “should” feel seems just out of reach. Perhaps the past seems to sneak up on you, and despite your best efforts, you’re more anxious, not less. Peace has eluded you and the stress of being successful and “having it all” hasn’t allowed time for the growth and change that you long for. If you want to find lasting balance amidst the chaos, I am here to help. With insightful exploration and practical strategies, I can help you find a better way forward.
I help highly motivated, successful, but struggling clients looking for a deeper resolution to their pain, anxiety, and distraction.
Everyone thinks you have it all together, but you feel like one slip and it will all fall apart. You have worked so hard for the amazing life you have and yet, the peace you “should” feel seems just out of reach. Perhaps the past seems to sneak up on you, and despite your best efforts, you’re more anxious, not less. Peace has eluded you and the stress of being successful and “having it all” hasn’t allowed time for the growth and change that you long for. If you want to find lasting balance amidst the chaos, I am here to help. With insightful exploration and practical strategies, I can help you find a better way forward.
(724) 602-9776 View (724) 602-9776
Photo of Sherrie Cameron, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherrie Cameron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789  (Online Only)
Why consider counseling? Because nearly everyone at some time in their life is confronted with seemingly unresolvable personal or relationship issues, significant life changes like premarital needs, or death and crtical illness of a loved one. I am very experienced in counseling persons dealing with mood, anxiety and health related concerns. I believe in counseling as a process where clients are assisted in understanding and disarming feelings that "make no sense" and would be happy to help my clients explore the truth behind the troubling issues in a safe and confidential environment.
Why consider counseling? Because nearly everyone at some time in their life is confronted with seemingly unresolvable personal or relationship issues, significant life changes like premarital needs, or death and crtical illness of a loved one. I am very experienced in counseling persons dealing with mood, anxiety and health related concerns. I believe in counseling as a process where clients are assisted in understanding and disarming feelings that "make no sense" and would be happy to help my clients explore the truth behind the troubling issues in a safe and confidential environment.
(407) 901-2060 View (407) 901-2060
Photo of Marcie Cramer, LMHC, Counselor
Marcie Cramer
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32792
My most important job is to listen, very carefully, to what your pain is saying.
Chances are that you came to my profile because you are struggling or hurting in some way and you truly desire to find the exact right person to assist you in getting some relief. I deeply believe you are not sick trying to get well but instead hurt trying to heal. Therapy is such a vulnerable, personal experience and it can be difficult determining which therapist is the right therapist for your specific needs by just looking at a profile. It is my honor to assist each unique human being on their very individualized path as I am just as passionate today as 37 years ago. You might be able to do alone but you don’t have to. Anymore.
My most important job is to listen, very carefully, to what your pain is saying.
Chances are that you came to my profile because you are struggling or hurting in some way and you truly desire to find the exact right person to assist you in getting some relief. I deeply believe you are not sick trying to get well but instead hurt trying to heal. Therapy is such a vulnerable, personal experience and it can be difficult determining which therapist is the right therapist for your specific needs by just looking at a profile. It is my honor to assist each unique human being on their very individualized path as I am just as passionate today as 37 years ago. You might be able to do alone but you don’t have to. Anymore.
(407) 792-2097 x101 View (407) 792-2097 x101
Photo of Susan Hansen-Engelhard, LMHC, Counselor
Susan Hansen-Engelhard
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32819
Are you dealing with trauma, anxiety, difficult childhood experiences, problematic family dynamics, marriage or relationship issues, divorce, difficulty in making decisions, depression, military/abuse trauma, pain management, and unhealthy relationships? Are you dissatisfied with your career path? Is military life or military family life part of your clinical picture?
Are you dealing with trauma, anxiety, difficult childhood experiences, problematic family dynamics, marriage or relationship issues, divorce, difficulty in making decisions, depression, military/abuse trauma, pain management, and unhealthy relationships? Are you dissatisfied with your career path? Is military life or military family life part of your clinical picture?
(407) 901-5693 View (407) 901-5693
Photo of Amber Fasula, PsyD, BCN, Psychologist
Amber Fasula
Psychologist, PsyD, BCN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Waitlist for new clients
Neurofeedback is an option for children, adolescents, and adults looking for a supplemental/alternative treatment to medication for treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, ASD, PTSD, mood disorders, pain, addictions, training peak performance, and more.
Dr. Fasula works as a specialist in biofeedback and neurofeedback in Chicagoland and Central Florida as well as for the Dr. Phil Show. She also provides a variety of psychological services to help individuals, groups, and families cope with various issues that arise throughout the lifespan. She utilizes an approach based on integrating individual strengths and assets at more conscious levels to build a foundation of positive mental health and stability. The aim is to clients re-establish a living pattern that improves their sense of satisfaction and confidence in their ability to meet their particular lifestyle needs.
Neurofeedback is an option for children, adolescents, and adults looking for a supplemental/alternative treatment to medication for treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, ASD, PTSD, mood disorders, pain, addictions, training peak performance, and more.
Dr. Fasula works as a specialist in biofeedback and neurofeedback in Chicagoland and Central Florida as well as for the Dr. Phil Show. She also provides a variety of psychological services to help individuals, groups, and families cope with various issues that arise throughout the lifespan. She utilizes an approach based on integrating individual strengths and assets at more conscious levels to build a foundation of positive mental health and stability. The aim is to clients re-establish a living pattern that improves their sense of satisfaction and confidence in their ability to meet their particular lifestyle needs.
(407) 790-4101 View (407) 790-4101
Photo of Beth Davalos - Sunshine Senior Counseling Beth Davalos MSW, LCSW, MSW, RPT-S, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunshine Senior Counseling Beth Davalos MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RPT-S, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Maitland, FL 32751
NOW accepting new clients as of 5/20/2024. Sunshine Senior Counseling is a group practice of 12 clinicians. We specialize in working with adults in a variety of living settings and private homes. Our therapists have expertise working in areas of grief, depression, anxiety, loneliness, life transitions, mental illness, trauma, early-stage Dementia & Alzheimer’s, as well as with caregivers. I am the Clinical Director at Sunshine Counseling with over 30 years of experience working with seniors, adults, children, and teens. I love my work and strive to provide a caring & uplifting environment in which our clients can heal and grow.
NOW accepting new clients as of 5/20/2024. Sunshine Senior Counseling is a group practice of 12 clinicians. We specialize in working with adults in a variety of living settings and private homes. Our therapists have expertise working in areas of grief, depression, anxiety, loneliness, life transitions, mental illness, trauma, early-stage Dementia & Alzheimer’s, as well as with caregivers. I am the Clinical Director at Sunshine Counseling with over 30 years of experience working with seniors, adults, children, and teens. I love my work and strive to provide a caring & uplifting environment in which our clients can heal and grow.
(689) 202-2900 View (689) 202-2900
Photo of Elena Saldamando, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elena Saldamando
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apopka, FL 32703  (Online Only)
I provide counseling for people who are struggling with anxiety and depression. My areas of focus include, but are not limited to: grief, cancer, family planning, life transitions, living with a chronic illness, and interpersonal conflict. I also work with people who feel disconnected from their meaning and purpose in life. Additionally, I am trained to provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia for those who would like to address their insomnia using non pharmacological interventions.
I provide counseling for people who are struggling with anxiety and depression. My areas of focus include, but are not limited to: grief, cancer, family planning, life transitions, living with a chronic illness, and interpersonal conflict. I also work with people who feel disconnected from their meaning and purpose in life. Additionally, I am trained to provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia for those who would like to address their insomnia using non pharmacological interventions.
(407) 250-8812 View (407) 250-8812
Photo of Anita Vargas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Vargas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32817
Accepting new clients as of 5/20/2024. I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience helping clients of all ages cope with the numerous stressors that life can hand us. I am passionate about helping clients to manage more effectively with anxiety, depression, pain management, medical issues, relationships, work issues, grief, memory issues, and trauma by creating a safe, validating environment where clients can heal and grow. Having worked for years in hospitals, facilities and in private practice, I have a deep understanding of the many issues that we can face in our lifetime .
Accepting new clients as of 5/20/2024. I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience helping clients of all ages cope with the numerous stressors that life can hand us. I am passionate about helping clients to manage more effectively with anxiety, depression, pain management, medical issues, relationships, work issues, grief, memory issues, and trauma by creating a safe, validating environment where clients can heal and grow. Having worked for years in hospitals, facilities and in private practice, I have a deep understanding of the many issues that we can face in our lifetime .
(407) 863-6989 View (407) 863-6989
Photo of Shawna Rathie Schultz, MS, LMHC
Shawna Rathie Schultz
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Winter Garden, FL 34787
My passion is working with children and young people dealing with depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, guilt & shame, trauma, self-esteem issues, and chronic illness/pain. I want to know what the client's needs are and how I can meet them so that we can reach their therapeutic goals. Therapy for me is a collaboration.
My passion is working with children and young people dealing with depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, guilt & shame, trauma, self-esteem issues, and chronic illness/pain. I want to know what the client's needs are and how I can meet them so that we can reach their therapeutic goals. Therapy for me is a collaboration.
(352) 453-8157 View (352) 453-8157
Photo of Robbi Zeper, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robbi Zeper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32827  (Online Only)
You do not have to continue to live in a place of pain.
Imagine what it feels like to carry a heavy burden – months or years of carrying the effects of trauma and have it gone in 2 sessions. This is what I do everyday. I specialize in reprogramming distressing images and memories which have been stored in your brain and now, no longer trigger strong physical and emotional reactions. You will be able to let it go! I do not need to know the details of your trauma in order for you to heal. I can quickly and effectively treat Anxiety, Phobias,
 Panic Attacks
, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress, Abuse, Infidelity,
Codependency,
 Grief, &
 Performance Anxiety.
You do not have to continue to live in a place of pain.
Imagine what it feels like to carry a heavy burden – months or years of carrying the effects of trauma and have it gone in 2 sessions. This is what I do everyday. I specialize in reprogramming distressing images and memories which have been stored in your brain and now, no longer trigger strong physical and emotional reactions. You will be able to let it go! I do not need to know the details of your trauma in order for you to heal. I can quickly and effectively treat Anxiety, Phobias,
 Panic Attacks
, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress, Abuse, Infidelity,
Codependency,
 Grief, &
 Performance Anxiety.
(407) 634-1317 View (407) 634-1317
Photo of Grace Marlyn Cruz, LMHC, Counselor
Grace Marlyn Cruz
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32839
Hello! My name is Grace Cruz and I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with a passion for helping people fulfill their purpose in life. For over 7 years, I have taken an integrative approach and collaborate with my clients using different techniques to help them achieve their mental health goals in areas such as anxiety, chronic pain, codependency, coping skills, and depression. I am a compassionate therapist who seeks the potential in others. My theoretical approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Attachment Theory.
Hello! My name is Grace Cruz and I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with a passion for helping people fulfill their purpose in life. For over 7 years, I have taken an integrative approach and collaborate with my clients using different techniques to help them achieve their mental health goals in areas such as anxiety, chronic pain, codependency, coping skills, and depression. I am a compassionate therapist who seeks the potential in others. My theoretical approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Attachment Theory.
(305) 419-2920 View (305) 419-2920
Photo of Rachel Everett, MA, PhD, RMHCI
Rachel Everett
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, PhD, RMHCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
I provide an empathetic, collaborative, and integrative approach to loss, trauma, meaning and identity, and mood disorders. In my practice, I primarily work with individuals and families who have experienced trauma, grief, end of life concerns, chronic illness, and mood disorders. I use a multicultural and trauma-informed humanistic approach to working with adults as well as children and adolescents. My educational background includes being EMDR trained (EMDRIA approved) and I have a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Vanderbilt and a M.A. in Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College.
I provide an empathetic, collaborative, and integrative approach to loss, trauma, meaning and identity, and mood disorders. In my practice, I primarily work with individuals and families who have experienced trauma, grief, end of life concerns, chronic illness, and mood disorders. I use a multicultural and trauma-informed humanistic approach to working with adults as well as children and adolescents. My educational background includes being EMDR trained (EMDRIA approved) and I have a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Vanderbilt and a M.A. in Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College.
(407) 250-1367 View (407) 250-1367
Photo of Jennifer Erthal - Jennifer Erthal - Waves of Clarity Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Erthal - Waves of Clarity Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32812  (Online Only)
Some common areas I work with clients on include anxiety, stress management, depression, parenting, self-esteem, chronic illness, and life changes.
Life can be hard! Whether you are starting a new job, managing you or a loved ones medical needs, struggling to love yourself, or dealing with constant internal second guessing and self doubt - let’s face it, sometimes we all need a little extra support! You are deserving of a safe space to be able to process the things that are impacting you most. I know taking this step to work through life's stressors is not an easy one but the good news is you do not have to do it alone!
Some common areas I work with clients on include anxiety, stress management, depression, parenting, self-esteem, chronic illness, and life changes.
Life can be hard! Whether you are starting a new job, managing you or a loved ones medical needs, struggling to love yourself, or dealing with constant internal second guessing and self doubt - let’s face it, sometimes we all need a little extra support! You are deserving of a safe space to be able to process the things that are impacting you most. I know taking this step to work through life's stressors is not an easy one but the good news is you do not have to do it alone!
(407) 205-2115 View (407) 205-2115
Photo of Vindeira Resaul-Maraj - Bioindividual Health & Wellness | RN Health Coach , RN, BC-FNHC
Bioindividual Health & Wellness | RN Health Coach
RN, BC-FNHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32827  (Online Only)
With this experience, I can assist you in learning more about your illness and how to enhance your overall well-being.
If you are experiencing health issues that affect your physical and mental well-being, taking a functional medicine and functional nutrition approach may be beneficial to you. What is functional medicine/nutrition? This is learning how food, stress, environmental toxins, and genetics, play a role in your overall health and well-being. When you work with me, you will learn how to identify which foods work for your body, learn how to use food as medicine, and understand how specific foods can cause your symptoms and lead to disease. At the same time, you will also work on stress management, sleep hygiene, exercise tips, and more.
With this experience, I can assist you in learning more about your illness and how to enhance your overall well-being.
If you are experiencing health issues that affect your physical and mental well-being, taking a functional medicine and functional nutrition approach may be beneficial to you. What is functional medicine/nutrition? This is learning how food, stress, environmental toxins, and genetics, play a role in your overall health and well-being. When you work with me, you will learn how to identify which foods work for your body, learn how to use food as medicine, and understand how specific foods can cause your symptoms and lead to disease. At the same time, you will also work on stress management, sleep hygiene, exercise tips, and more.
(407) 809-1596 View (407) 809-1596
Photo of Marisol Alcibar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisol Alcibar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Accepting new clients as of 5/20/2024. I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and work with a variety of clients from teenagers to geriatric individuals. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, pain management and medical issues as I have done extensive work in dialysis centers and hospitals as well as in private practice. I have a deep understanding of the many issues that we can face in our lifetime, creating a safe, validating environment where clients can thrive.
Accepting new clients as of 5/20/2024. I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and work with a variety of clients from teenagers to geriatric individuals. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, pain management and medical issues as I have done extensive work in dialysis centers and hospitals as well as in private practice. I have a deep understanding of the many issues that we can face in our lifetime, creating a safe, validating environment where clients can thrive.
(305) 306-8580 View (305) 306-8580
Photo of Cynthia Quinton, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Quinton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Accepting new clients as of 03/15/2024. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or are struggling with a medical diagnosis? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with over twenty-five years of professional work experience and specialize in working with geriatric individuals. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults in need of pain management, coping with medical issues, struggling to communicate with family members, or experiencing grief. I work with individuals and family members to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal, grow, and thrive.
Accepting new clients as of 03/15/2024. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or are struggling with a medical diagnosis? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with over twenty-five years of professional work experience and specialize in working with geriatric individuals. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults in need of pain management, coping with medical issues, struggling to communicate with family members, or experiencing grief. I work with individuals and family members to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal, grow, and thrive.
(863) 474-8452 View (863) 474-8452
Photo of Mary Beth McDermott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Beth McDermott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Now accepting new clients as of 05/20/2024. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have over fifteen years of work experience and specialize in the fields of adults, geriatrics, and caregivers. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults in need of pain management, depression, anxiety, coping with medical issues, or experiencing grief. I am also passionate about helping caregivers cope with the stress of this role and communicating their needs. I work with both individuals and family members. I strive to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal, grow, and thrive.
Now accepting new clients as of 05/20/2024. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have over fifteen years of work experience and specialize in the fields of adults, geriatrics, and caregivers. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults in need of pain management, depression, anxiety, coping with medical issues, or experiencing grief. I am also passionate about helping caregivers cope with the stress of this role and communicating their needs. I work with both individuals and family members. I strive to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal, grow, and thrive.
(813) 536-5184 View (813) 536-5184

See more therapy options for Orange County

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.