Chronic Pain Therapists in Midland Park, NJ

Photo of Melinda Inzani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midland Park, NJ
Melinda Inzani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CACYSW, C-AS
Verified Verified
Midland Park, NJ 07432  (Online Only)
We all want to be our best self. As different and one-of a kind as we are, we all want similar things; to reach our goals and be happy. Having the ability to be more positive, forgiving, successful, valuable and loving are just a few things we desire. Finding the courage to speak our minds, feeling connected to each other, discovering what our hearts are searching for and remaining determined is something we all strive for. At the end of the day, we desire a sense of belonging, self-worth and the ability to have radical compassion.
We all want to be our best self. As different and one-of a kind as we are, we all want similar things; to reach our goals and be happy. Having the ability to be more positive, forgiving, successful, valuable and loving are just a few things we desire. Finding the courage to speak our minds, feeling connected to each other, discovering what our hearts are searching for and remaining determined is something we all strive for. At the end of the day, we desire a sense of belonging, self-worth and the ability to have radical compassion.
(551) 227-3336 View (551) 227-3336
Photo of Rose Celia Rosato, Licensed Professional Counselor in Midland Park, NJ
Rose Celia Rosato
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Midland Park, NJ 07432
With 35 years' of experience in the mental health field as a counselor and psychotherapist, I have maintained a well-established practice in Bergen County for 30 years. My practice provides individual, group and family counseling and psychotherapy in addition to workshops and lectures. I have worked in a variety of community and private agencies which has provided me experience with diverse populations and services. Areas of experience include: depression, anxiety, women's issues, trauma, life transition, adolescent issues, family issues, addiction, gifted population and more.
With 35 years' of experience in the mental health field as a counselor and psychotherapist, I have maintained a well-established practice in Bergen County for 30 years. My practice provides individual, group and family counseling and psychotherapy in addition to workshops and lectures. I have worked in a variety of community and private agencies which has provided me experience with diverse populations and services. Areas of experience include: depression, anxiety, women's issues, trauma, life transition, adolescent issues, family issues, addiction, gifted population and more.
(201) 254-5257 View (201) 254-5257
Photo of Aimee Restifo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midland Park, NJ
Aimee Restifo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Midland Park, NJ 07432
Are you looking to become your best self? To conquer anxiety or depression or come to terms with past experiences or future worries? I would love to guide you on your journey to overall wellness! I have been an LCSW for 17 years, working with people ages 18-100+. Join me at my practice, Live Life Therapy, LLC and together we can achieve your personal goals!
Are you looking to become your best self? To conquer anxiety or depression or come to terms with past experiences or future worries? I would love to guide you on your journey to overall wellness! I have been an LCSW for 17 years, working with people ages 18-100+. Join me at my practice, Live Life Therapy, LLC and together we can achieve your personal goals!
(551) 296-1136 View (551) 296-1136
Photo of Compete: Mental Performance Training, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midland Park, NJ
Compete: Mental Performance Training
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Midland Park, NJ 07432
Mental Performance Training (sometimes referred to as sport psychology) is the approach of harnessing the power of the mind to maximize performance. Mental skills have been used for decades. Any activity that requires performance can be enhanced through the knowledge and use of mental skills! So, what it boils down to is this: Do you believe that there is a mental side of performance? Have you ever experienced the phenomenon of being in the zone? Most athletes we work with do, yet few dedicate time toward training that aspect of their game. At Compete, we teach skills to hone the power of the mind to allow your thousands of hours of
Mental Performance Training (sometimes referred to as sport psychology) is the approach of harnessing the power of the mind to maximize performance. Mental skills have been used for decades. Any activity that requires performance can be enhanced through the knowledge and use of mental skills! So, what it boils down to is this: Do you believe that there is a mental side of performance? Have you ever experienced the phenomenon of being in the zone? Most athletes we work with do, yet few dedicate time toward training that aspect of their game. At Compete, we teach skills to hone the power of the mind to allow your thousands of hours of
(201) 331-6776 View (201) 331-6776
Photo of Roseanne C. Trapani, Marriage & Family Therapist in Midland Park, NJ
Roseanne C. Trapani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midland Park, NJ 07432
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Bergen County, working with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of treatment needs. Areas of treatment include: Relationship counseling, divorce adjustment, relational discernment counseling, loss and grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, high functioning Autism, and mood disorders. In addition, I specialize in working with adolescents who are dealing with anxiety, peer pressure, academic stress, and bullying, in order to help them to develop psychological awareness and insight. My approach is integrative. Building upon your strengths and resilience, we will find solutions and healing together. Please contact me for a complimentary 15 minute phone consultation.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Bergen County, working with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of treatment needs. Areas of treatment include: Relationship counseling, divorce adjustment, relational discernment counseling, loss and grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, high functioning Autism, and mood disorders. In addition, I specialize in working with adolescents who are dealing with anxiety, peer pressure, academic stress, and bullying, in order to help them to develop psychological awareness and insight. My approach is integrative. Building upon your strengths and resilience, we will find solutions and healing together. Please contact me for a complimentary 15 minute phone consultation.
(201) 331-6551 View (201) 331-6551

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Victoria Ozerskaya, Counselor in Midland Park, NJ
Victoria Ozerskaya
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ho Ho Kus, NJ 07423
If you are experiencing chronic pain, a lot of energy is spent just to "get through the day". That energy could be put to better use to achieve your goals, enrich your life and enjoy it. Neck and back pain, TMI, IBS, eczema, joint pain, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue and autoimmune disorders have underlying emotional and psychological roots and most medical doctors don't pay attention to those "vitals". It often results in misdiagnosis and unsustainable treatments that bring temporary or no relief. It leaves you feeling misunderstood, frustrated with endless appointments, hopeless, lonely & desperate to try anything to feel better.
If you are experiencing chronic pain, a lot of energy is spent just to "get through the day". That energy could be put to better use to achieve your goals, enrich your life and enjoy it. Neck and back pain, TMI, IBS, eczema, joint pain, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue and autoimmune disorders have underlying emotional and psychological roots and most medical doctors don't pay attention to those "vitals". It often results in misdiagnosis and unsustainable treatments that bring temporary or no relief. It leaves you feeling misunderstood, frustrated with endless appointments, hopeless, lonely & desperate to try anything to feel better.
(551) 209-3814 View (551) 209-3814
Photo of Nicole Mendicino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midland Park, NJ
Nicole Mendicino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saddle River, NJ 07458  (Online Only)
It's nice to meet you! Does your mind ever get the better of you? Are your thoughts so consuming that you can't seem to slow them down? Are you feeling unsettled, tense, or like you've lost yourself? You may be experiencing the unwanted effects of anxiety, chronic pain, or ongoing distress. These can feel debilitating when we do not know what to do with it all. Collaboratively, let's work towards reclaiming the life you truly deserve! To learn more about my practice, please view my website at wholeheartedcnslng.com
It's nice to meet you! Does your mind ever get the better of you? Are your thoughts so consuming that you can't seem to slow them down? Are you feeling unsettled, tense, or like you've lost yourself? You may be experiencing the unwanted effects of anxiety, chronic pain, or ongoing distress. These can feel debilitating when we do not know what to do with it all. Collaboratively, let's work towards reclaiming the life you truly deserve! To learn more about my practice, please view my website at wholeheartedcnslng.com
(973) 671-3048 View (973) 671-3048
Photo of Advanced Psychological Specialists, LLC, Psychologist in Midland Park, NJ
Advanced Psychological Specialists, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
As one travels through the different stages of life, many challenges inevitably arise. These challenges can be the result of life circumstances, such as chronic pain, loss of a loved one, childhood/ parenting problems or relationship difficulties. These challenges can also be due to chronic or severe conditions such as depression, anxiety, cognitive disorder or thought disorder. A thorough assessment and psychological treatment plan can help you navigate all of these types of challenges and achieve optimal emotional health.
As one travels through the different stages of life, many challenges inevitably arise. These challenges can be the result of life circumstances, such as chronic pain, loss of a loved one, childhood/ parenting problems or relationship difficulties. These challenges can also be due to chronic or severe conditions such as depression, anxiety, cognitive disorder or thought disorder. A thorough assessment and psychological treatment plan can help you navigate all of these types of challenges and achieve optimal emotional health.
(201) 335-0206 x1 View (201) 335-0206 x1
Photo of Jessica S Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midland Park, NJ
Jessica S Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wyckoff, NJ 07481  (Online Only)
Everyone should have access to quality mental health care, which is why I offer telehealth services for individuals who are not able to attend in-office appointments due to the time constraints of parenting, career, travel, illness, etc. My goals are to help guide, challenge, and teach essential skills to help my clients live fuller, more content, and well-adjusted lives. A focus of my career has been work with creatives, LGBTQ individuals, young adults, therapy novices, and people with medical challenges. I am a Health At Every Size practitioner, passionate about body acceptance and intuitive eating.
Everyone should have access to quality mental health care, which is why I offer telehealth services for individuals who are not able to attend in-office appointments due to the time constraints of parenting, career, travel, illness, etc. My goals are to help guide, challenge, and teach essential skills to help my clients live fuller, more content, and well-adjusted lives. A focus of my career has been work with creatives, LGBTQ individuals, young adults, therapy novices, and people with medical challenges. I am a Health At Every Size practitioner, passionate about body acceptance and intuitive eating.
(551) 303-6915 View (551) 303-6915
Photo of Mary Beth Del Balzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midland Park, NJ
Mary Beth Del Balzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Ho Ho Kus, NJ 07423
Therapeutic specializations include adult and older adult transitions, catastrophic illness counseling, bereavement and grief, anxiety, depression, stress, women's issues, spirit based counseling, and caretaker issues and resources.
My mission is to patiently support people in seeking and finding joy that eludes them, helping them to empower themselves by using psychotherapy & hypnotherapy, working with the mind, body, emotions and our spirit that makes us unique and a part of the whole of humanity. Our therapeutic alliance encourages a look at the world in a new, safe way. Hypnosis and work in the subconscious is the eye to the soul. I'm an expert hypnotherapist with numerous hypnosis certifications, in private psychotherapy practice since 2005 and a practicing clinical hypnotherapist since 1995, located in NJ.
Therapeutic specializations include adult and older adult transitions, catastrophic illness counseling, bereavement and grief, anxiety, depression, stress, women's issues, spirit based counseling, and caretaker issues and resources.
My mission is to patiently support people in seeking and finding joy that eludes them, helping them to empower themselves by using psychotherapy & hypnotherapy, working with the mind, body, emotions and our spirit that makes us unique and a part of the whole of humanity. Our therapeutic alliance encourages a look at the world in a new, safe way. Hypnosis and work in the subconscious is the eye to the soul. I'm an expert hypnotherapist with numerous hypnosis certifications, in private psychotherapy practice since 2005 and a practicing clinical hypnotherapist since 1995, located in NJ.
(201) 292-5167 View (201) 292-5167
Photo of Dr. Melissa L Donahue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midland Park, NJ
Dr. Melissa L Donahue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Patients who have benefitted struggled with differences in desire, arousal, orgasm challenges, & pain.
As a leader in sexual health and wellness, Dr. Donahue understands the complexities many people face in their lives and how it can impact their sexuality. All people are sexual beings, and their quality of life can suffer when experiencing challenges in this area. All ages, genders, ethnicities, and religious backgrounds can benefit from sex therapy. Dr. Donahue's broad spectrum of knowledge is advantageous when working with the whole patient, leaning into the body-mind connection.
Patients who have benefitted struggled with differences in desire, arousal, orgasm challenges, & pain.
As a leader in sexual health and wellness, Dr. Donahue understands the complexities many people face in their lives and how it can impact their sexuality. All people are sexual beings, and their quality of life can suffer when experiencing challenges in this area. All ages, genders, ethnicities, and religious backgrounds can benefit from sex therapy. Dr. Donahue's broad spectrum of knowledge is advantageous when working with the whole patient, leaning into the body-mind connection.
(201) 688-7019 View (201) 688-7019
Photo of Susan First, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midland Park, NJ
Susan First
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07451
I am dedicated to helping individuals develop the skills to resolve interpersonal and psychological issues. I have specialty training in anxiety and depression, family therapy, grief/bereavement counseling, borderline personality disorder, and in health psychology; including pain and symptom management, anxiety reduction and adjustment to illness. I work with adolescents in the area of dealing with blended family issues, school avoidance, self harm and social anxiety. Regardless of the specific therapeutic issue, I take an individualized approach and focus on cultivating growth, insight and self-compassion.
I am dedicated to helping individuals develop the skills to resolve interpersonal and psychological issues. I have specialty training in anxiety and depression, family therapy, grief/bereavement counseling, borderline personality disorder, and in health psychology; including pain and symptom management, anxiety reduction and adjustment to illness. I work with adolescents in the area of dealing with blended family issues, school avoidance, self harm and social anxiety. Regardless of the specific therapeutic issue, I take an individualized approach and focus on cultivating growth, insight and self-compassion.
(201) 425-1615 View (201) 425-1615
Photo of Steven Bottari, Psychologist in Midland Park, NJ
Steven Bottari
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07451  (Online Only)
After obtaining a Ph.D. in School Psychology, I completed a Post-Doctoral Internship in Clinical Psychology, working with adults. I subsequently entered private practice and worked with a very diverse client population. Issues I have treated include: depression, anxiety, PTSD/pain from accident and injury, ADHD, and relationship issues. After practicing for 15 years, I entered the business world and recently returned to clinical practice supplemented with years of business and life experience.
After obtaining a Ph.D. in School Psychology, I completed a Post-Doctoral Internship in Clinical Psychology, working with adults. I subsequently entered private practice and worked with a very diverse client population. Issues I have treated include: depression, anxiety, PTSD/pain from accident and injury, ADHD, and relationship issues. After practicing for 15 years, I entered the business world and recently returned to clinical practice supplemented with years of business and life experience.
(732) 554-3073 View (732) 554-3073
Photo of Erica Shreck, Psychologist in Midland Park, NJ
Erica Shreck
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I work across a broad spectrum of diagnostic presentations, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, adjustment issues, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, management of chronic medical illness, caregiver stress and perinatal mental health, with a particular emphasis on flexible application of evidence-based therapies (e.
Beginning therapy is a wonderful challenge and opportunity, one that I am committed to partnering in. My work often focuses on helping clients enact change, manage symptoms, cultivate meaning and live authentically. Additionally, my therapeutic stance is open, empathic and collaborative, creating a non-judgmental space to connect in the valued areas of your life. I am committed to considering the multifaceted aspects of your identity, in understanding your lived experience and moving towards your goals.
I work across a broad spectrum of diagnostic presentations, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, adjustment issues, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, management of chronic medical illness, caregiver stress and perinatal mental health, with a particular emphasis on flexible application of evidence-based therapies (e.
Beginning therapy is a wonderful challenge and opportunity, one that I am committed to partnering in. My work often focuses on helping clients enact change, manage symptoms, cultivate meaning and live authentically. Additionally, my therapeutic stance is open, empathic and collaborative, creating a non-judgmental space to connect in the valued areas of your life. I am committed to considering the multifaceted aspects of your identity, in understanding your lived experience and moving towards your goals.
(201) 552-3418 View (201) 552-3418
Photo of Judith Glick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midland Park, NJ
Judith Glick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07450  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I deal with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, chronic illness, life's challenges with an eclectic approach.
Are you having difficulty adjusting to changes in your life? Even re-entering life after Covid-19? Are you feeling isolated? Scared? Insecure? Overwhelmed? Have normal everyday problems become magnified? If you have answered YES to ANY of these questions, NOW is the time to call me. I am here to help. While we work together for positive outcomes, YOU are the link to begin this process.
As a therapist, I deal with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, chronic illness, life's challenges with an eclectic approach.
Are you having difficulty adjusting to changes in your life? Even re-entering life after Covid-19? Are you feeling isolated? Scared? Insecure? Overwhelmed? Have normal everyday problems become magnified? If you have answered YES to ANY of these questions, NOW is the time to call me. I am here to help. While we work together for positive outcomes, YOU are the link to begin this process.
(201) 643-7638 View (201) 643-7638
Photo of Anne Harutunian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midland Park, NJ
Anne Harutunian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wyckoff, NJ 07481  (Online Only)
Since completing my Masters degree in 2002, I've enjoyed a career working with individuals, couples, families, and groups in a variety of clinical settings. The majority of my experience has been in treating adolescents and adults with a wide range of issues including; divorce, addictions, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self-esteem, abuse and trauma, and chronic mental illness.
Since completing my Masters degree in 2002, I've enjoyed a career working with individuals, couples, families, and groups in a variety of clinical settings. The majority of my experience has been in treating adolescents and adults with a wide range of issues including; divorce, addictions, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self-esteem, abuse and trauma, and chronic mental illness.
(551) 427-0921 View (551) 427-0921
Photo of Victorie Valspirit Hypnotherapy in Midland Park, NJ
Victorie Valspirit Hypnotherapy
CMS-CHt, FIBH
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Our cumulative, customized modality is constructed to give each client maximum benefits & success to achieve their goals for all medical issues, surgery, pain management, weight management, bladder control, sports, test taking, focus, motivation, to aid in healing faster & more.
I Tori Valspirit, stand for my clients loving themselves, knowing their true values, expecting the best in life, being happy, healthy, strong and prosperous. Understanding that they can make a choice to transform and change their lives and make it all that it can be. As a result of my work as a Clinical Hypnotherapist, Teacher and Empowerment Coach knowing that we have the ability to create the lives that we were meant to have. Acknowledging the power within us because it is possible for human kind to experience Heaven on Earth.” Board Certification #F10319-600, Today we have a 93.4% success rate.
Our cumulative, customized modality is constructed to give each client maximum benefits & success to achieve their goals for all medical issues, surgery, pain management, weight management, bladder control, sports, test taking, focus, motivation, to aid in healing faster & more.
I Tori Valspirit, stand for my clients loving themselves, knowing their true values, expecting the best in life, being happy, healthy, strong and prosperous. Understanding that they can make a choice to transform and change their lives and make it all that it can be. As a result of my work as a Clinical Hypnotherapist, Teacher and Empowerment Coach knowing that we have the ability to create the lives that we were meant to have. Acknowledging the power within us because it is possible for human kind to experience Heaven on Earth.” Board Certification #F10319-600, Today we have a 93.4% success rate.
(973) 949-0499 View (973) 949-0499
Photo of Christopher Libby, Psychologist in Midland Park, NJ
Christopher Libby
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
, coping with medical conditions such as chronic pain, fibromyalgia, IBS).
I am a clinical psychologist who primarily uses Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I work with clients of all ages-- I completed my doctoral training with a specialty in working with children and families, but I enjoy working with adults equally. In addition to my private practice, I serve as a supervisor, Assistant Clinic Director, and Coordinator of the DBT Program at Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS). There I have been involved in training doctoral students in clinical psychology for the last 11 years.
, coping with medical conditions such as chronic pain, fibromyalgia, IBS).
I am a clinical psychologist who primarily uses Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I work with clients of all ages-- I completed my doctoral training with a specialty in working with children and families, but I enjoy working with adults equally. In addition to my private practice, I serve as a supervisor, Assistant Clinic Director, and Coordinator of the DBT Program at Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS). There I have been involved in training doctoral students in clinical psychology for the last 11 years.
(917) 809-6532 View (917) 809-6532
Photo of Marjorie Sommer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midland Park, NJ
Marjorie Sommer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
My clients tell me that I help make the therapeutic process easier by understanding their pain, while giving them hope.
Are you feeling that life is more difficult than it should be? Do you think you might be suffering from anxiety or depression? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand these feelings can be very painful, scary, and all-consuming. That is why I use a collaborative, non-judgmental approach during the course of therapy. My work begins with listening to my clients with compassion. Once that connection is made with a therapist, I believe the client is on the road to having a brighter future. I look forward to speaking with you, and answering your questions.
My clients tell me that I help make the therapeutic process easier by understanding their pain, while giving them hope.
Are you feeling that life is more difficult than it should be? Do you think you might be suffering from anxiety or depression? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand these feelings can be very painful, scary, and all-consuming. That is why I use a collaborative, non-judgmental approach during the course of therapy. My work begins with listening to my clients with compassion. Once that connection is made with a therapist, I believe the client is on the road to having a brighter future. I look forward to speaking with you, and answering your questions.
(201) 429-0624 View (201) 429-0624
Photo of Nancy Fish, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midland Park, NJ
Nancy Fish
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I cover several areas including anxiety, depression, cancer, infertility, anger management, chronic pain, grief, trauma, and individuals with special needs.
I have been in private practice for more than 20 years. I work in Northern New Jersey and provide short-term psychotherapy using psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and sensorimotor psychotherapy. I feel using an integrated model produces the best results. Every client is different so it's necessary to use multiple modalities --a one size fits all model does not work in therapy. I like working in partnership with clients. I am approachable, warm, nurturing and active in my sessions. I believe it's essential to be available to clients and return phone calls and emails on a timely basis
I cover several areas including anxiety, depression, cancer, infertility, anger management, chronic pain, grief, trauma, and individuals with special needs.
I have been in private practice for more than 20 years. I work in Northern New Jersey and provide short-term psychotherapy using psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and sensorimotor psychotherapy. I feel using an integrated model produces the best results. Every client is different so it's necessary to use multiple modalities --a one size fits all model does not work in therapy. I like working in partnership with clients. I am approachable, warm, nurturing and active in my sessions. I believe it's essential to be available to clients and return phone calls and emails on a timely basis
(201) 741-8138 View (201) 741-8138

See more therapy options for Midland Park


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.