Chronic Pain Therapists in Oakdale, MN

Photo of Canvas Health, Oakdale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakdale, MN
Canvas Health, Oakdale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakdale, MN 55128
All are welcome at Canvas Health! Our compassionate clinicians help children, adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with mental illness and substance use disorders through exceptional clinical care. We work with clients from every walk of life who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, addiction, substance use disorders, panic attacks, mood disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, and more. We specialize in complex issues that can be addressed through our more than 35 programs.
All are welcome at Canvas Health! Our compassionate clinicians help children, adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with mental illness and substance use disorders through exceptional clinical care. We work with clients from every walk of life who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, addiction, substance use disorders, panic attacks, mood disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, and more. We specialize in complex issues that can be addressed through our more than 35 programs.
(651) 433-6187 View (651) 433-6187
Photo of Stephanie Kalliman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakdale, MN
Stephanie Kalliman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakdale, MN 55128
I specialize in helping people navigate complex relationships, grief and loss, trauma, eating disorders, and chronic illness.
I am a human first and a therapist second, which means I will meet you where you are at and I will not judge you for the things you might be judging yourself for. I'm not afraid to use humor and have a passion for helping build stronger connections in your relationships, including the relationship you have with yourself. I offer an encouraging, warm, and collaborative approach to healing and welcome couples, families, adolescents, and adults.
I specialize in helping people navigate complex relationships, grief and loss, trauma, eating disorders, and chronic illness.
I am a human first and a therapist second, which means I will meet you where you are at and I will not judge you for the things you might be judging yourself for. I'm not afraid to use humor and have a passion for helping build stronger connections in your relationships, including the relationship you have with yourself. I offer an encouraging, warm, and collaborative approach to healing and welcome couples, families, adolescents, and adults.
(651) 998-7525 View (651) 998-7525
Photo of Mollie Newhouse, PsyD, LP, Psychologist in Oakdale, MN
Mollie Newhouse, PsyD, LP
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakdale, MN 55128
I am trained in CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR and pre-surgical bariatric assessments I have an interest in health psychology, chronic pain, trauma, eating disorders, and psychological assessments.
Accepting residents of MN. Do you often feel misunderstood, scared, stuck, unheard, or like you don't matter? Sometimes life experiences have us feeling like we are constantly struggling or fighting to survive. Maybe you feel like it's difficult to connect with others or even find it difficult to love yourself. This can leave you feeling lonely and unsure of the future, possibly even unsure if you can trust anyone to understand your struggles. I have interest in helping those who struggle with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief, and psychological trauma.
I am trained in CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR and pre-surgical bariatric assessments I have an interest in health psychology, chronic pain, trauma, eating disorders, and psychological assessments.
Accepting residents of MN. Do you often feel misunderstood, scared, stuck, unheard, or like you don't matter? Sometimes life experiences have us feeling like we are constantly struggling or fighting to survive. Maybe you feel like it's difficult to connect with others or even find it difficult to love yourself. This can leave you feeling lonely and unsure of the future, possibly even unsure if you can trust anyone to understand your struggles. I have interest in helping those who struggle with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief, and psychological trauma.
(651) 240-2660 View (651) 240-2660
Photo of Caitlin Sparer, Counselor in Oakdale, MN
Caitlin Sparer
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakdale, MN 55128
As a Mental Health Practitioner with a Masters of Arts in Mental Health Counseling, I enjoy working with teenagers, adults and seniors. We work together to progress through trauma, grief, depression, OCD, and anxiety. It is important to me to build a relationship with trust in order to provide a safe place for having those challenging conversations around life experiences. I approach my sessions with a gentle, compassionate and caring method of communication with the attempt to make therapy approachable and secure enough to work through treatment goals.
As a Mental Health Practitioner with a Masters of Arts in Mental Health Counseling, I enjoy working with teenagers, adults and seniors. We work together to progress through trauma, grief, depression, OCD, and anxiety. It is important to me to build a relationship with trust in order to provide a safe place for having those challenging conversations around life experiences. I approach my sessions with a gentle, compassionate and caring method of communication with the attempt to make therapy approachable and secure enough to work through treatment goals.
(651) 661-4737 View (651) 661-4737
Photo of www.CounselingKidsandAdults.com, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakdale, MN
www.CounselingKidsandAdults.com
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakdale, MN 55128
We believe that we all have the capability to survive through difficult times and unwanted emotions. We also believe that we are all worthwhile and valuable individuals that have something valuable to offer others. However, sometimes the world and people around us can seem discouraging and shame-based. One of our goals is to model self-worth and provide our clients with constant encouragement until they are able to see themselves as a worthwhile person that is capable of also encouraging others. Visit us at www.CounselingKidsandAdults.com
We believe that we all have the capability to survive through difficult times and unwanted emotions. We also believe that we are all worthwhile and valuable individuals that have something valuable to offer others. However, sometimes the world and people around us can seem discouraging and shame-based. One of our goals is to model self-worth and provide our clients with constant encouragement until they are able to see themselves as a worthwhile person that is capable of also encouraging others. Visit us at www.CounselingKidsandAdults.com
(651) 927-8152 View (651) 927-8152
Photo of Ashley Tokuda, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakdale, MN
Ashley Tokuda
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Oakdale, MN 55128
I specialize in working with the LGBT+ community, people who identify as neurodivergent, those with trauma and relationship issues (queer, ENM, Kink etc. I don't work with CIS, straight couples). I have a passion for supporting trans identifying clients as they advocate for their needs within the medical system, supporting clients navigating open relationships, and supporting parents who are navigating the needs of their neurodivergent children. I practice from a sex positive, health at every size, harm reduction lens. I ask my clients to show up as their authentic self and my clients can expect the same from me.
I specialize in working with the LGBT+ community, people who identify as neurodivergent, those with trauma and relationship issues (queer, ENM, Kink etc. I don't work with CIS, straight couples). I have a passion for supporting trans identifying clients as they advocate for their needs within the medical system, supporting clients navigating open relationships, and supporting parents who are navigating the needs of their neurodivergent children. I practice from a sex positive, health at every size, harm reduction lens. I ask my clients to show up as their authentic self and my clients can expect the same from me.
(651) 565-6138 View (651) 565-6138
Photo of Melissa Saari, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oakdale, MN
Melissa Saari
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Oakdale, MN 55128  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Melissa. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) working under supervision towards LPCC licensure. I believe the therapeutic relationship is critical to feeling safe and supported in counseling work. My style is compassionate, conversational, warm and supportive in sessions. I enjoy utilizing humor as well! As a neurodivergent clinician, I seek to empower neurodivergent persons and come from a strengths-based approach. I am a compassionate LGBTQIA+ Ally and further identify as a gender expansive/non-conforming person. I enjoy working with a variety of relationship structures, including poly/ENM relationships.
Hello! My name is Melissa. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) working under supervision towards LPCC licensure. I believe the therapeutic relationship is critical to feeling safe and supported in counseling work. My style is compassionate, conversational, warm and supportive in sessions. I enjoy utilizing humor as well! As a neurodivergent clinician, I seek to empower neurodivergent persons and come from a strengths-based approach. I am a compassionate LGBTQIA+ Ally and further identify as a gender expansive/non-conforming person. I enjoy working with a variety of relationship structures, including poly/ENM relationships.
(651) 615-2635 View (651) 615-2635
Photo of Jenn John, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakdale, MN
Jenn John
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakdale, MN 55128
Entering into (or even the thought of entering into) a therapeutic process takes a lot of ambition and courage. The therapy process is not an easy one, but it can be a highly successful and rewarding one when it lessens your suffering, reduces troubling symptoms, and increases your ability to cope with the stressors of life. These are all outcomes that are best achieved within a nurturing and supportive relationship with a helping professional. It would be my honor to support you in your quest towards health.
Entering into (or even the thought of entering into) a therapeutic process takes a lot of ambition and courage. The therapy process is not an easy one, but it can be a highly successful and rewarding one when it lessens your suffering, reduces troubling symptoms, and increases your ability to cope with the stressors of life. These are all outcomes that are best achieved within a nurturing and supportive relationship with a helping professional. It would be my honor to support you in your quest towards health.
(651) 421-0815 View (651) 421-0815
Photo of Brittany Henderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oakdale, MN
Brittany Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, RPT™
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakdale, MN 55128
Whether you are embarking on the journey of therapy for the first time, returning, or exploring different therapeutic services, my mission is to provide a space where you feel truly heard. I believe growth can happen through a strong therapeutic relationship. I am committed to cultivating an atmosphere that is not only trusting, safe, and nurturing but also encourages collaboration. Recognizing that you are the expert in your own life, I employ a variety of techniques from play therapy, sand tray, and somatic techniques.
Whether you are embarking on the journey of therapy for the first time, returning, or exploring different therapeutic services, my mission is to provide a space where you feel truly heard. I believe growth can happen through a strong therapeutic relationship. I am committed to cultivating an atmosphere that is not only trusting, safe, and nurturing but also encourages collaboration. Recognizing that you are the expert in your own life, I employ a variety of techniques from play therapy, sand tray, and somatic techniques.
(651) 615-5425 View (651) 615-5425
Photo of Laura Phillips, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakdale, MN
Laura Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakdale, MN 55128
Not accepting new clients
I'm not taking new clients at this time. I provide individual and couples therapy for people wanting to improve mental, emotional, relational, and/or spiritual health. I treat: anxiety; depression; relational issues; self-esteem issues; abuse/trauma/PTSD; coping for stress and/or chronic pain/illness; lack of meaning or purpose in life. If you are experiencing low mood, stress/panic, hopelessness, bothersome thoughts and feelings about a traumatic event, feel you are in a relationship with a significant other or family member where negative patterns have taken hold, or you feel you are not living to your full potential, I can help.
I'm not taking new clients at this time. I provide individual and couples therapy for people wanting to improve mental, emotional, relational, and/or spiritual health. I treat: anxiety; depression; relational issues; self-esteem issues; abuse/trauma/PTSD; coping for stress and/or chronic pain/illness; lack of meaning or purpose in life. If you are experiencing low mood, stress/panic, hopelessness, bothersome thoughts and feelings about a traumatic event, feel you are in a relationship with a significant other or family member where negative patterns have taken hold, or you feel you are not living to your full potential, I can help.
(651) 425-9297 View (651) 425-9297

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oakdale, MN
Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Mahtomedi, MN 55115
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(763) 710-3288 View (763) 710-3288
Photo of Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oakdale, MN
Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(612) 295-0844 View (612) 295-0844
Photo of Mary Kay Elizabeth Voight-Moller, Psychologist in Oakdale, MN
Mary Kay Elizabeth Voight-Moller
Psychologist, MS, MN-LP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102
My areas of specialization include; depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, relationship issues, eating disorders, chronic pain, DBT, marital/family therapy, grief and loss, pregnancy loss, infertility, adoption, abuse issues, and life transitions.
My office is a warm and comforting place for you to tell your story, deal with life's stressors, treat depression and anxiety, work on healthy relationships, or heal old wounds. I provide a more holistic perspective in my appraoch to therapy, looking at the total needs you might have to best help you to heal and grow. It is very important to me that you feel heard and well cared for in your therapy process. We will work together to help you to make changes and to feel stronger.
My areas of specialization include; depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, relationship issues, eating disorders, chronic pain, DBT, marital/family therapy, grief and loss, pregnancy loss, infertility, adoption, abuse issues, and life transitions.
My office is a warm and comforting place for you to tell your story, deal with life's stressors, treat depression and anxiety, work on healthy relationships, or heal old wounds. I provide a more holistic perspective in my appraoch to therapy, looking at the total needs you might have to best help you to heal and grow. It is very important to me that you feel heard and well cared for in your therapy process. We will work together to help you to make changes and to feel stronger.
(651) 760-0673 View (651) 760-0673
Photo of Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oakdale, MN
Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Newport, MN 55055
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(763) 363-4584 View (763) 363-4584
Photo of Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakdale, MN
Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Willernie, MN 55090
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(763) 363-7655 View (763) 363-7655
Photo of Davis Maxwell Shryer III, Counselor in Oakdale, MN
Davis Maxwell Shryer III
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101
I typically work with those who suffer from addiction, chronic pain or mental health issues.
Thank you for taking the time to read this. I believe in the dignity of all people. Every client has a story that needs to be told in a safe environment. The typical client I see experiences issues with addiction, depression or chronic pain. Every problem has a solution and it is my job to help you find the answer, both immediate and long-term. My goal is to help you live a safer, happier and more healthy life. I promise our time together will be respectful and productive.
I typically work with those who suffer from addiction, chronic pain or mental health issues.
Thank you for taking the time to read this. I believe in the dignity of all people. Every client has a story that needs to be told in a safe environment. The typical client I see experiences issues with addiction, depression or chronic pain. Every problem has a solution and it is my job to help you find the answer, both immediate and long-term. My goal is to help you live a safer, happier and more healthy life. I promise our time together will be respectful and productive.
(651) 504-8633 View (651) 504-8633
Photo of Kathleen Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oakdale, MN
Kathleen Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101  (Online Only)
Living with, and adjusting to, a life with chronic pain, autoimmune disease, chronic health conditions and disability, can be complicated. Even the inevitable process of aging, comes with its adjustment challenges. We will work together to build new coping strategies. I am familiar with the myriad of feelings that can result from a diagnosis; feelings such as anger, isolation, powerlessness and betrayal. I will help you challenge thoughts that are not helpful and develop new ways to think about issues and find solutions.
Living with, and adjusting to, a life with chronic pain, autoimmune disease, chronic health conditions and disability, can be complicated. Even the inevitable process of aging, comes with its adjustment challenges. We will work together to build new coping strategies. I am familiar with the myriad of feelings that can result from a diagnosis; feelings such as anger, isolation, powerlessness and betrayal. I will help you challenge thoughts that are not helpful and develop new ways to think about issues and find solutions.
(612) 662-7089 View (612) 662-7089
Photo of Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC, Counselor in Oakdale, MN
Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(651) 349-6846 View (651) 349-6846
Photo of Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC, Counselor in Oakdale, MN
Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(612) 351-4958 View (612) 351-4958
Photo of Peter Jason Meilahn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oakdale, MN
Peter Jason Meilahn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
West Saint Paul, MN 55118
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(651) 299-6579 View (651) 299-6579

See more therapy options for Oakdale

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.