Chronic Pain Therapists in Metairie, LA

Photo of Melissa Jenny Lacoste, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Jenny Lacoste
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70002
I have a passion for connecting and helping people reach balance, direction, and live a more fulfilling life. I work with teens, adults, couples, and families. I have worked with people from various backgrounds with anxiety, depression, grief, stages of life, trauma, severe mental illness, and marital/relationship, and identity issues. Therapy is highly effective, but requires openness, patience, and dedication! I would love to work with you and help you on this journey called “Life.”
I have a passion for connecting and helping people reach balance, direction, and live a more fulfilling life. I work with teens, adults, couples, and families. I have worked with people from various backgrounds with anxiety, depression, grief, stages of life, trauma, severe mental illness, and marital/relationship, and identity issues. Therapy is highly effective, but requires openness, patience, and dedication! I would love to work with you and help you on this journey called “Life.”
(504) 608-7205 View (504) 608-7205
Photo of Travis Pollard, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Travis Pollard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002
I have additional training in using EMDR for attachment wounds and complex childhood trauma, as well as chronic pain, single event trauma, and grief.
I have experience working with clients from various backgrounds, presenting with multiple different mental health concerns. I have the most experience and training in working with survivors of trauma. Many of my clients have suffered unbearable loss, abuse, neglect, and traumatic experiences outside of their control. They need help in identifying and regaining control over their symptoms that stem from the trauma they have endured. They need a safe relationship in which they are able to reprocess the events and reactions to the hardest things they have experienced. They want to not feel trapped in their traumatic memory.
I have additional training in using EMDR for attachment wounds and complex childhood trauma, as well as chronic pain, single event trauma, and grief.
I have experience working with clients from various backgrounds, presenting with multiple different mental health concerns. I have the most experience and training in working with survivors of trauma. Many of my clients have suffered unbearable loss, abuse, neglect, and traumatic experiences outside of their control. They need help in identifying and regaining control over their symptoms that stem from the trauma they have endured. They need a safe relationship in which they are able to reprocess the events and reactions to the hardest things they have experienced. They want to not feel trapped in their traumatic memory.
(504) 384-6950 View (504) 384-6950
Photo of Gabriella Ortiz, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabriella Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001
Since receiving my Masters in Social Work from Tulane University in 2014, I have worked with perinatal populations, those with pregnancy-related concerns, parents of children with special needs, those suffering from chronic pain, victims of domestic violence, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and adults with symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress.
We all have areas of our lives that we would like to improve. My role is to empower my clients with the tools necessary to reach goals, improve relationships, and better understand and accept their emotions. My approach is tailored to meet the needs of each client while identifying and utilizing the client’s strengths, creating a supportive environment focused on growth and healing. I utilize techniques from motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy to provide comprehensive support to clients as they learn to utilize the skills needed to accept and commit to long-term health and happiness.
Since receiving my Masters in Social Work from Tulane University in 2014, I have worked with perinatal populations, those with pregnancy-related concerns, parents of children with special needs, those suffering from chronic pain, victims of domestic violence, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and adults with symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress.
We all have areas of our lives that we would like to improve. My role is to empower my clients with the tools necessary to reach goals, improve relationships, and better understand and accept their emotions. My approach is tailored to meet the needs of each client while identifying and utilizing the client’s strengths, creating a supportive environment focused on growth and healing. I utilize techniques from motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy to provide comprehensive support to clients as they learn to utilize the skills needed to accept and commit to long-term health and happiness.
(504) 732-9472 View (504) 732-9472
Photo of Frank Trupiano, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frank Trupiano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70002
Specialties include: Blended Families, Marital and Couple Relationship Problems; Addictions (substance abuse and gambling); Eating Disorders (Obesity, Anorexia and Bulimia); Anxiety and Depressive Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Victims of Sexual Abuse; chronic pain management.
I provide individual, marriage, and family counseling services. I also create health and wellness programs . Whether you want to quit smoking, lose weight, manage stress, or improve your relationships, I can help. I also offer a number of complementary therapies: Reiki , hypnotherapy, (EFT) Emotional Freedom Techniques, the Sedona Method,and Psych-k . For clients experiencing a lack of direction, purpose, or meaning in their life, I offer psycho-spiritual counseling, utilizing the Akashic Records and Wisdom Teachings from the Bible and other spiritual tradition.
Specialties include: Blended Families, Marital and Couple Relationship Problems; Addictions (substance abuse and gambling); Eating Disorders (Obesity, Anorexia and Bulimia); Anxiety and Depressive Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Victims of Sexual Abuse; chronic pain management.
I provide individual, marriage, and family counseling services. I also create health and wellness programs . Whether you want to quit smoking, lose weight, manage stress, or improve your relationships, I can help. I also offer a number of complementary therapies: Reiki , hypnotherapy, (EFT) Emotional Freedom Techniques, the Sedona Method,and Psych-k . For clients experiencing a lack of direction, purpose, or meaning in their life, I offer psycho-spiritual counseling, utilizing the Akashic Records and Wisdom Teachings from the Bible and other spiritual tradition.
(504) 358-0517 View (504) 358-0517
Photo of Barry D. Schwartz - Barry D. Schwartz Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist, PhD, Psychologist
Barry D. Schwartz Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70005
Are you feeling powerless, a victim and at the mercy of life? Oftentimes these feelings are symptoms of your difficulty in making decisions, experiencing anger, frustration, anxiety/depression and worry. Do you feel overloaded/overwhelmed by problems? Are you experiencing sleep problems, constant tiredness, frequent use of over the counter drugs, and pain? Do you have attention problems/disorganization and confusion? My 30-plus years of professional experience has taught me that we all have something in common. Whether you're a butcher, a baker or candle stick maker you are a human being who wants to experience "peace of mind".
Are you feeling powerless, a victim and at the mercy of life? Oftentimes these feelings are symptoms of your difficulty in making decisions, experiencing anger, frustration, anxiety/depression and worry. Do you feel overloaded/overwhelmed by problems? Are you experiencing sleep problems, constant tiredness, frequent use of over the counter drugs, and pain? Do you have attention problems/disorganization and confusion? My 30-plus years of professional experience has taught me that we all have something in common. Whether you're a butcher, a baker or candle stick maker you are a human being who wants to experience "peace of mind".
(504) 521-6897 View (504) 521-6897
Photo of Averie McCauley - Averie McCauley | Crescent City Psychotherapy, MSW, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Averie McCauley | Crescent City Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70005
Do you have an experience of trauma, anxiety, pain, or ongoing health challenges? I specialize in these areas and am also passionate about supporting people living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). As an integrative somatic trauma psychotherapist, I weave elements of various somatic modalities into a framework of EMDR and Brainspotting. These work with the self-healing aspects of our biology, restoring balance to the nervous system, and influencing neural patterning so that deep and lasting change can occur. Combining interventions in a patient-centered and theory-driven approach promotes improved treatment outcomes.
Do you have an experience of trauma, anxiety, pain, or ongoing health challenges? I specialize in these areas and am also passionate about supporting people living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). As an integrative somatic trauma psychotherapist, I weave elements of various somatic modalities into a framework of EMDR and Brainspotting. These work with the self-healing aspects of our biology, restoring balance to the nervous system, and influencing neural patterning so that deep and lasting change can occur. Combining interventions in a patient-centered and theory-driven approach promotes improved treatment outcomes.
(504) 264-6776 View (504) 264-6776
Photo of Dr. Shannon M Poe, DSW, CT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Shannon M Poe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, CT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70001  (Online Only)
I've specific experience working with people struggling with chronic and terminal medical illnesses, traumatic grief due to gun violence.
When navigating through life, you may face a time when you lose someone you love, face an illness, or a traumatic time in your own life. You may be going through a transition such as a divorce, move, or job loss. You do not need to navigate these alone! These transitions can affect every facet of life. You may be finding yourself feeling lost, doing your best to make it through day-to-day life. It might be difficult to get out of bed right now, to hold conversations, or to fulfill your caregiving or work responsibilities. You may be feeling anxiety that you would like help with.
I've specific experience working with people struggling with chronic and terminal medical illnesses, traumatic grief due to gun violence.
When navigating through life, you may face a time when you lose someone you love, face an illness, or a traumatic time in your own life. You may be going through a transition such as a divorce, move, or job loss. You do not need to navigate these alone! These transitions can affect every facet of life. You may be finding yourself feeling lost, doing your best to make it through day-to-day life. It might be difficult to get out of bed right now, to hold conversations, or to fulfill your caregiving or work responsibilities. You may be feeling anxiety that you would like help with.
(504) 370-6294 View (504) 370-6294
Photo of Dawn Chiappetta - Light Of Dawn Counseling, LLC, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Light Of Dawn Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70005
It works by identifying, processing, and releasing core neurophysiological sources of emotional/body pain, Depending on the individual, a client can completely heal an issue in a very short amount of time.
I am here for you for the purpose of helping you heal your mind, body & spirit through the innovative and somatic technique of Brainspotting which some call “the new EMDR”. I also offer other counseling modalities such as parts work, talk therapy, visual meditation, inner child work, play & art therapy techniques in order to help you heal trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, & the difficulties of life in general.
It works by identifying, processing, and releasing core neurophysiological sources of emotional/body pain, Depending on the individual, a client can completely heal an issue in a very short amount of time.
I am here for you for the purpose of helping you heal your mind, body & spirit through the innovative and somatic technique of Brainspotting which some call “the new EMDR”. I also offer other counseling modalities such as parts work, talk therapy, visual meditation, inner child work, play & art therapy techniques in order to help you heal trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, & the difficulties of life in general.
(504) 226-5230 View (504) 226-5230
Photo of Marlo Best, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marlo Best
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70001  (Online Only)
knowing where to begin when seeking help can be tough. If you wonder if you are in the right place to get help, here are 8 examples, you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, you cannot escape asking why this happened to you, you have done everything you know to do, you are consumed during the day and lie awake at night fighting fears, discomfort, and pain, you struggle to articulate/deny feelings of guilt and shame, you feel inadequate and different, you seek to find or realign with your purpose, at times, your life does not feel worthy of living.
knowing where to begin when seeking help can be tough. If you wonder if you are in the right place to get help, here are 8 examples, you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, you cannot escape asking why this happened to you, you have done everything you know to do, you are consumed during the day and lie awake at night fighting fears, discomfort, and pain, you struggle to articulate/deny feelings of guilt and shame, you feel inadequate and different, you seek to find or realign with your purpose, at times, your life does not feel worthy of living.
(504) 285-4074 View (504) 285-4074
Photo of Catherine Jorjorian, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Jorjorian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70005
My approach to therapy is psychodynamic. I view the therapuetic process as a collaborative and empathic relationship of communication, exploration, reflection and insight. I believe it is the therapuetic relationship itself that is most important in creating the conditions for the deep exploratory work of psychotherapy and the possibility of change. The three goals of therapy are understanding, acceptance and change, where one is now, and what one is ready for could differ over time. We will begin where ever you are, clarify issues and establish goals. I hope I have an opportunity to meet and work with you.
My approach to therapy is psychodynamic. I view the therapuetic process as a collaborative and empathic relationship of communication, exploration, reflection and insight. I believe it is the therapuetic relationship itself that is most important in creating the conditions for the deep exploratory work of psychotherapy and the possibility of change. The three goals of therapy are understanding, acceptance and change, where one is now, and what one is ready for could differ over time. We will begin where ever you are, clarify issues and establish goals. I hope I have an opportunity to meet and work with you.
(504) 370-2839 View (504) 370-2839
Photo of Adrianne Brennan - Brennan Behavior Group, PhD, BCAB
Brennan Behavior Group
PhD, BCAB
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70005
At Brennan Behavior Group, we strive to provide a very supportive and open atmosphere where we can work with you to discover the personal strengths and weaknesses which drive your life. Our goal is to educate our clients so that they can feel informed when making decisions in their life and navigating their relationships.
At Brennan Behavior Group, we strive to provide a very supportive and open atmosphere where we can work with you to discover the personal strengths and weaknesses which drive your life. Our goal is to educate our clients so that they can feel informed when making decisions in their life and navigating their relationships.
(504) 507-8815 View (504) 507-8815
Photo of Ellen Santolucito - Ellen Santolucito, LPC, LLC, MEd, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Ellen Santolucito, LPC, LLC
Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70005
Hello, I have 25 years of experience having worked with various populations and issues. I believe that life is a journey that presents to us constant experiences for learning and growth to become your best self, whatever that means to you. Change is challenging as one becomes comfortable in the uncomfortable. But as you become aware of the routines and patterns that you continue with that are not working for you, you will be moving toward making lifelong changes that not only affect you positively but also your relationships with others. Change is possible, anxiety and depression are manageable and you are well worth your time.
Hello, I have 25 years of experience having worked with various populations and issues. I believe that life is a journey that presents to us constant experiences for learning and growth to become your best self, whatever that means to you. Change is challenging as one becomes comfortable in the uncomfortable. But as you become aware of the routines and patterns that you continue with that are not working for you, you will be moving toward making lifelong changes that not only affect you positively but also your relationships with others. Change is possible, anxiety and depression are manageable and you are well worth your time.
(504) 420-7944 View (504) 420-7944
Photo of Katie Lynn, MEd, CHWC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Lynn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, CHWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002
Hello! Welcome to taking the first step in finding support to assist you in being the best version of yourself despite life's challenges. I am a Certified Health and Well-Being Coach (CHWC) with 16 years of experience. I enjoy using a “coach approach” when appropriate as the focus is forward moving. This equips me with more tools for successful outcomes with clients. Utilizing approaches from positive psychology, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and person-centered theories, I am here to walk along side with you toward your goals of behavior change.
Hello! Welcome to taking the first step in finding support to assist you in being the best version of yourself despite life's challenges. I am a Certified Health and Well-Being Coach (CHWC) with 16 years of experience. I enjoy using a “coach approach” when appropriate as the focus is forward moving. This equips me with more tools for successful outcomes with clients. Utilizing approaches from positive psychology, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and person-centered theories, I am here to walk along side with you toward your goals of behavior change.
(504) 688-3430 View (504) 688-3430
Photo of Elisabeth Edwards, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elisabeth Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to connect with others? Has the family fighting become too much to bare? Do you have things unprocessed in your story? Have you reached your max capacity for handling daily life? Look no further! Help is here! I create a safe space to process unresolved issues in your story. We all need help from time to time. True bravery is asking for the help and allowing someone to help you, even through the most difficult times in your life. Life is sweeter when you are connected with our community. Don't be afraid to reach out! Don't be afraid to ask for help! You're so worth it!
Are you struggling to connect with others? Has the family fighting become too much to bare? Do you have things unprocessed in your story? Have you reached your max capacity for handling daily life? Look no further! Help is here! I create a safe space to process unresolved issues in your story. We all need help from time to time. True bravery is asking for the help and allowing someone to help you, even through the most difficult times in your life. Life is sweeter when you are connected with our community. Don't be afraid to reach out! Don't be afraid to ask for help! You're so worth it!
(985) 898-4826 View (985) 898-4826
Photo of Natalie Bellott, LCSW, BACS, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Bellott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS, SEP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70005
Do you want what's inside to match what it looks like on the outside? Have you benefitted from talk therapy but wanting to go further? You may have insight as to why you feel stuck or anxious, but needing help to fully release and move forward. I strive to create a warm and safe therapeutic space that allows healing to naturally take place. My approach is person-centered and collaborative; with each client receiving individualized care depending on their life history, current issues, and personal goals. I have special interest in helping people who experience caregiver burnout, anxiety, grief, and other trauma-related symptoms.
Do you want what's inside to match what it looks like on the outside? Have you benefitted from talk therapy but wanting to go further? You may have insight as to why you feel stuck or anxious, but needing help to fully release and move forward. I strive to create a warm and safe therapeutic space that allows healing to naturally take place. My approach is person-centered and collaborative; with each client receiving individualized care depending on their life history, current issues, and personal goals. I have special interest in helping people who experience caregiver burnout, anxiety, grief, and other trauma-related symptoms.
(504) 249-3561 View (504) 249-3561
Photo of Angelique T Williams- Modern Day Therapy, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angelique T Williams- Modern Day Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70002
Life happens to us all. The stress and anxiety that sometimes accompanies life events can be difficult to deal with at times. Psychotherapy is a great way to discuss your issues and collaborate with a Therapist on solutions and coping skills. Hello, my name is Angelique T. Williams. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing psychotherapy and life consulting in Louisiana, Georgia and Texas. My office is located in Metairie, La. I provide face to face therapy or life consulting to clients in Metairie and the surrounding areas. I provide online therapy or online life consulting to clients in Louisiana, Georgia and Texas.
Life happens to us all. The stress and anxiety that sometimes accompanies life events can be difficult to deal with at times. Psychotherapy is a great way to discuss your issues and collaborate with a Therapist on solutions and coping skills. Hello, my name is Angelique T. Williams. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing psychotherapy and life consulting in Louisiana, Georgia and Texas. My office is located in Metairie, La. I provide face to face therapy or life consulting to clients in Metairie and the surrounding areas. I provide online therapy or online life consulting to clients in Louisiana, Georgia and Texas.
(504) 265-1476 View (504) 265-1476
Photo of Leslie Page Eustis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Page Eustis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70005
Before you give up on your present relationship, let me help you to learn skills that create safety and security in communication. You can find new pathways to heal instead of hurting your partner or yourself. You can experience a renewed sense of aliveness and intimacy in your relationship. I specialize in marriage/relationship/and family counseling. I work with adolescents and adults who would like to improve their communication skills in their relationships at home or work/school.
Before you give up on your present relationship, let me help you to learn skills that create safety and security in communication. You can find new pathways to heal instead of hurting your partner or yourself. You can experience a renewed sense of aliveness and intimacy in your relationship. I specialize in marriage/relationship/and family counseling. I work with adolescents and adults who would like to improve their communication skills in their relationships at home or work/school.
(504) 229-6857 View (504) 229-6857
Photo of Jeanine Songy Latham, LPC, RDN, MPH, CDE, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeanine Songy Latham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RDN, MPH, CDE
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70005
Stress-related health issues ? Overworking to get ahead yet falling further behind in relationships ? My roots of many years in the medical field as a digestive disease and bariatric nutritionist taught me that mis-managed stress(food, drink, media ,substance, overwork) ravages our bodies and our relationships. But.... can be turned around! I have helped countless individuals and couples change problematic thoughts, destructive behavior patterns to improve relationships and health. Sharing your fears and story with someone who understands your medical health, genetics, and self-care will provide a holistic solution.
Stress-related health issues ? Overworking to get ahead yet falling further behind in relationships ? My roots of many years in the medical field as a digestive disease and bariatric nutritionist taught me that mis-managed stress(food, drink, media ,substance, overwork) ravages our bodies and our relationships. But.... can be turned around! I have helped countless individuals and couples change problematic thoughts, destructive behavior patterns to improve relationships and health. Sharing your fears and story with someone who understands your medical health, genetics, and self-care will provide a holistic solution.
(504) 370-8152 View (504) 370-8152
Photo of Elizabeth Beu Bourgeois - NOLA Art Therapy and Counseling, LLC, MS, ATR-BC, LPC, Art Therapist
NOLA Art Therapy and Counseling, LLC
Art Therapist, MS, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70005
Sometimes extra help and support are needed to successfully navigate through the challenging and difficult situations that arise in life. By seeking therapy, you will receive our support while we work as a team to better understand your challenging life situations. If you make a commitment to change and work on improving yourself and your situation, therapy can give you the tools you need to face future life challenges. In a comfortable and supportive environment, we offer a highly personalized approach made to meet the needs of each individual client and/or family to help them achieve personal growth.
Sometimes extra help and support are needed to successfully navigate through the challenging and difficult situations that arise in life. By seeking therapy, you will receive our support while we work as a team to better understand your challenging life situations. If you make a commitment to change and work on improving yourself and your situation, therapy can give you the tools you need to face future life challenges. In a comfortable and supportive environment, we offer a highly personalized approach made to meet the needs of each individual client and/or family to help them achieve personal growth.
(504) 273-7851 View (504) 273-7851
Photo of Tracy Brockman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracy Brockman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70006
To Be a Therapist is the Greatest Honor I can imagine for myself. To sit with Individuals and be part of a system that promotes a BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE is such a gift that I can't believe I get paid for it. I've been a Therapist for over 20 yrs. and feel confident in my abilities. My specialties include, but are not limited to, Narcissistic Abuse and Personality Disorder, Marital Counseling, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety and Panic Disorders, Sexual Abuse and Anger Management. I exclude no one for their beliefs towards Religious, Sexual or Gender Preferences. All are welcome to my Practice.
To Be a Therapist is the Greatest Honor I can imagine for myself. To sit with Individuals and be part of a system that promotes a BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE is such a gift that I can't believe I get paid for it. I've been a Therapist for over 20 yrs. and feel confident in my abilities. My specialties include, but are not limited to, Narcissistic Abuse and Personality Disorder, Marital Counseling, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety and Panic Disorders, Sexual Abuse and Anger Management. I exclude no one for their beliefs towards Religious, Sexual or Gender Preferences. All are welcome to my Practice.
(504) 565-2921 x318243 View (504) 565-2921 x318243
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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.