Photo of Joel Simon, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joel Simon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Experienced New Jersey Licenced Psychotherapist, Offers a warm, caring and supportive environment, specializes in treating individuals of all ages with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bi Polar Disorder, Couples Relations, Anger Management, Stress Related Disorders, Parenting issues and more. I choose from a number of treatment modalities to best meet your needs, and just to name a few such as Cognitive Behavioral, Psycho Dynamics, Stress Reduction to get passed personal blocks and to achieve your desired goals such as improved relationships at home and better productivity at work. I am also a Certified Supervisor providing supervision to other LCSW Therapists in the area.
Experienced New Jersey Licenced Psychotherapist, Offers a warm, caring and supportive environment, specializes in treating individuals of all ages with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bi Polar Disorder, Couples Relations, Anger Management, Stress Related Disorders, Parenting issues and more. I choose from a number of treatment modalities to best meet your needs, and just to name a few such as Cognitive Behavioral, Psycho Dynamics, Stress Reduction to get passed personal blocks and to achieve your desired goals such as improved relationships at home and better productivity at work. I am also a Certified Supervisor providing supervision to other LCSW Therapists in the area.
(201) 509-4414 View (201) 509-4414
Photo of James L Fosshage, PhD, Psychologist
James L Fosshage
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I believe that each of us is endowed with a fundamental striving to grow. However, in life's journey we encounter both joy and sorrow. What is important is how we negotiate these experiences. If you are feeling undermined from negative attitudes or facing difficult challenges, help is available through a safe, in-depth psychoanalytic psychotherapy experience. We will explore the relational origins of harmful self-feelings and painful experiences to seek new pathways to enhance your sense of wellbeing. In psychotherapy, we will embark on an in-depth reflective adventure together to facilitate your growth to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
I believe that each of us is endowed with a fundamental striving to grow. However, in life's journey we encounter both joy and sorrow. What is important is how we negotiate these experiences. If you are feeling undermined from negative attitudes or facing difficult challenges, help is available through a safe, in-depth psychoanalytic psychotherapy experience. We will explore the relational origins of harmful self-feelings and painful experiences to seek new pathways to enhance your sense of wellbeing. In psychotherapy, we will embark on an in-depth reflective adventure together to facilitate your growth to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
(201) 568-8003 View (201) 568-8003
Photo of Dr. Paul Groenewal (Inspire Wellness), PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Paul Groenewal (Inspire Wellness)
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and one of the owners of a group practice called Inspire Wellness. Inspire Wellness is made up of 25 clinicians with various specialties. We have offices throughout Bergen County offering therapy, Sport Psychology, Neuropsychological Testing, and Forensic Psychology. Working in a group decreases the likelihood that we run a waiting list and allows clients to find a clinician with the specialty and approach that fits their specific need. We have a full office staff that are able and willing to answer your questions and will assist you in dealing with your insurance needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and one of the owners of a group practice called Inspire Wellness. Inspire Wellness is made up of 25 clinicians with various specialties. We have offices throughout Bergen County offering therapy, Sport Psychology, Neuropsychological Testing, and Forensic Psychology. Working in a group decreases the likelihood that we run a waiting list and allows clients to find a clinician with the specialty and approach that fits their specific need. We have a full office staff that are able and willing to answer your questions and will assist you in dealing with your insurance needs.
(201) 591-1085 View (201) 591-1085

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Robert Galarowicz - Dr. Robert's Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy, ND, ACH, CH
Dr. Robert's Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy
ND, ACH, CH
Verified Verified
Wood Ridge, NJ 07075
Discover How My Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy Service Can Help You ... If You Want To Improve Your Anxiety, Depression, Boost Confidence, or Improve Other Mental/Emotional Problems or Life Challenges I Have The Service FOR YOU! I ENJOY to help people & your Children use hypnosis and many mind-body therapies to improve their health. Discover how I can help you ... lose weight, stop smoking & addictions, sleep better, end stress/fear, be happy, control thoughts, change/build habits, end pain, and MORE ... Visit my other website http://www.drrobertg.com for $187 of FREE Goodies! Plus a no-charge phone
Discover How My Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy Service Can Help You ... If You Want To Improve Your Anxiety, Depression, Boost Confidence, or Improve Other Mental/Emotional Problems or Life Challenges I Have The Service FOR YOU! I ENJOY to help people & your Children use hypnosis and many mind-body therapies to improve their health. Discover how I can help you ... lose weight, stop smoking & addictions, sleep better, end stress/fear, be happy, control thoughts, change/build habits, end pain, and MORE ... Visit my other website http://www.drrobertg.com for $187 of FREE Goodies! Plus a no-charge phone
(201) 425-6339 View (201) 425-6339
Photo of David Drapkin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Drapkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666
I also have first hand experience of mental illness, and non-ordinary states of consciousness.
We all want to feel whole and achieve meaningful goals in our lives. To do so requires honesty and dedication, especially around the insecurities and defense mechanisms that have become ingrained within our personality. I can help you zoom out to gain more familiarity with your true Self trying to break through the surface of your persona. On one hand, it can be very anxiety provoking to feel that there is more to life than this. But, at the same time, it is an invitation to know, forgive and love yourself unconditionally. An invitation to feel into unknown selves and shadows, to accept You exactly the way you really are.
I also have first hand experience of mental illness, and non-ordinary states of consciousness.
We all want to feel whole and achieve meaningful goals in our lives. To do so requires honesty and dedication, especially around the insecurities and defense mechanisms that have become ingrained within our personality. I can help you zoom out to gain more familiarity with your true Self trying to break through the surface of your persona. On one hand, it can be very anxiety provoking to feel that there is more to life than this. But, at the same time, it is an invitation to know, forgive and love yourself unconditionally. An invitation to feel into unknown selves and shadows, to accept You exactly the way you really are.
(551) 305-3390 View (551) 305-3390
Photo of Michael Bleicher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Bleicher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
Reaching out for help while in pain requires courage and bravery while clinging to the hope that, through the therapeutic process, you will discover your own resilience and unique inner strength.
Courage, resilience, and strength are some of the traits you've developed while navigating through life. But infertility, reproductive loss, and postpartum anxiety and depression can make it feel like you’re unequipped for this chapter. As a therapist who specializes in sensitively supporting individuals throughout the fertility journey, I welcome you to my office where you can comfortably regain your footing. By tailoring your treatment to meet your individual goals, you can move through this challenge, emerging stronger than ever.
Reaching out for help while in pain requires courage and bravery while clinging to the hope that, through the therapeutic process, you will discover your own resilience and unique inner strength.
Courage, resilience, and strength are some of the traits you've developed while navigating through life. But infertility, reproductive loss, and postpartum anxiety and depression can make it feel like you’re unequipped for this chapter. As a therapist who specializes in sensitively supporting individuals throughout the fertility journey, I welcome you to my office where you can comfortably regain your footing. By tailoring your treatment to meet your individual goals, you can move through this challenge, emerging stronger than ever.
(201) 371-4420 View (201) 371-4420
Photo of Joshua Tal, PhD, Psychologist
Joshua Tal
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Englewood, NJ 07631
I also treat mental health symptoms related to severe health crises, such as concussions, stroke, cardiac, chronic pain, accident, COVID-19 trauma and chronic illness.
I'm a caring and direct psychologist with a specialty in sleep disorders, especially severe, chronic insomnia. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) to help you to get the sleep your body needs. CBT-I is a rapid and effective treatment. In fact, 85% of clients who complete my CBT-I protocol reach their sleep goals in as little as 4-8 sessions. Good night insomnia. Stop letting your worries or your medications dictate your sleep. Let's work togethers to re-start your mind and your body's connection to sleep.
I also treat mental health symptoms related to severe health crises, such as concussions, stroke, cardiac, chronic pain, accident, COVID-19 trauma and chronic illness.
I'm a caring and direct psychologist with a specialty in sleep disorders, especially severe, chronic insomnia. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) to help you to get the sleep your body needs. CBT-I is a rapid and effective treatment. In fact, 85% of clients who complete my CBT-I protocol reach their sleep goals in as little as 4-8 sessions. Good night insomnia. Stop letting your worries or your medications dictate your sleep. Let's work togethers to re-start your mind and your body's connection to sleep.
(347) 694-4561 View (347) 694-4561
Photo of Joseph Carlozzo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph Carlozzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oradell, NJ 07649
Are you looking for a different way to respond to situations in your life? Although we know that "HOW" we respond is critical...we often feel we have little control over our response. We can lose sight of our better judgment, our strengths, and miss opportunities to either make the situation better or our response better. In our efforts to get rid of our problems or shoo them away, they are on our minds even more...making us feel overwhelmed and helpless. Considering or imagining other ways, of responding or looking at situations, is a matter of training the mind.
Are you looking for a different way to respond to situations in your life? Although we know that "HOW" we respond is critical...we often feel we have little control over our response. We can lose sight of our better judgment, our strengths, and miss opportunities to either make the situation better or our response better. In our efforts to get rid of our problems or shoo them away, they are on our minds even more...making us feel overwhelmed and helpless. Considering or imagining other ways, of responding or looking at situations, is a matter of training the mind.
(201) 389-8272 View (201) 389-8272
Photo of Mark Lyall - Dr. Mark Lyall LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Mark Lyall LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rutherford, NJ 07070
The focus of this practice is Positive Personal Transformation. I strive to help every client find his or her own personal sense of Happiness and Well-being. I have been working in the mental health field for over 30 years and teaching counseling for over 15 years at New Jersey City University. Mental Health is not just an absence of sadness or anxiety. The type of mental health we will work on is a real motivation and enthusiasm for life. Together, let's start creating the life that you want to live.
The focus of this practice is Positive Personal Transformation. I strive to help every client find his or her own personal sense of Happiness and Well-being. I have been working in the mental health field for over 30 years and teaching counseling for over 15 years at New Jersey City University. Mental Health is not just an absence of sadness or anxiety. The type of mental health we will work on is a real motivation and enthusiasm for life. Together, let's start creating the life that you want to live.
(973) 755-1537 View (973) 755-1537
Photo of Frank Hoehne, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frank Hoehne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Would you like to manage the stressful issues and events of your life more effectively? Are everyday problems more difficult than they should be? Are the extraordinary or traumatic events completely overwhelming? Is your personal and professional life not as fulfilling as you want? Is alcohol or drug use exacerbating your problems? Are your usual methods of coping with problems failing to bring relief? Maybe it's time to try a new approach. Crisis, as traumatic as it may seem, can be an opportunity to examine and re-negotiate life events and life choices for a more fulfilling future.
Would you like to manage the stressful issues and events of your life more effectively? Are everyday problems more difficult than they should be? Are the extraordinary or traumatic events completely overwhelming? Is your personal and professional life not as fulfilling as you want? Is alcohol or drug use exacerbating your problems? Are your usual methods of coping with problems failing to bring relief? Maybe it's time to try a new approach. Crisis, as traumatic as it may seem, can be an opportunity to examine and re-negotiate life events and life choices for a more fulfilling future.
(201) 875-3148 View (201) 875-3148
Photo of Mark Morris, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maywood, NJ 07607  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist working with individuals, couples, and groups to help them resolve issues interfering with emotional and mental health. My aim is to help empower clients to live a fully conscious and meaningful life in harmony with the world around them. Using the techniques and training listed below I’ve helped clients manage and overcome relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and other issues. I also have experience as an EMT, Buddhist chaplain, and prison counselor, so I bring diverse perspectives on health and the human condition to our work together.
I am a psychotherapist working with individuals, couples, and groups to help them resolve issues interfering with emotional and mental health. My aim is to help empower clients to live a fully conscious and meaningful life in harmony with the world around them. Using the techniques and training listed below I’ve helped clients manage and overcome relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and other issues. I also have experience as an EMT, Buddhist chaplain, and prison counselor, so I bring diverse perspectives on health and the human condition to our work together.
(201) 581-9695 View (201) 581-9695
Photo of Harold Goldstein, PhD, Psychologist
Harold Goldstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601
I am a straightforward person who values humor and compassion in relationships. I will not dispense advice but will challenge you to think about yourself in new ways, encourage you to look at yourself honestly and talk about painful issues that you keep at a distance. My role is to help you figure out what needs to change in your life and then help you make those changes.The goal is for you to develop trust in your own wisdom and judgment so that you learn to look inside yourself for the answers you seek.
I am a straightforward person who values humor and compassion in relationships. I will not dispense advice but will challenge you to think about yourself in new ways, encourage you to look at yourself honestly and talk about painful issues that you keep at a distance. My role is to help you figure out what needs to change in your life and then help you make those changes.The goal is for you to develop trust in your own wisdom and judgment so that you learn to look inside yourself for the answers you seek.
(201) 254-0603 View (201) 254-0603
Photo of Erick D Rubel, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erick D Rubel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Haworth, NJ 07641
Each of us is a truly original, unrepeatable, irreplaceable, unique, sacred, precious, creative, talented and healthy self that through a process of nature and nurture spends each moment of time evolving and expressing ourselves through love, compassion, caring, empathy and other virtuous relationships. Therapy is a process of celebrating the evolution of each person's true self. It is our way, modern and ancient, eastern and western, artistic and technological, spiritual and practical of Self development. Therapy is also our newest and oldest path of protecting, nurturing, supporting and upholding all that is virtuous, positive, meritorious, innocent, ethical, benevolent and philanthropic in ourselves while learning to handle, manage, cope, organize, and select our purpose, meaning and priorities in life. Therapy teaches us the surivival skills that help us become efficacious and masterful in life. We establish, goals we wish to achieve, priorities we wish to establish, a clear plan of action, which evolves as we evolve, with the help of a trained professional who respects both our free will and our fate, our unique mission and our destiny.
Each of us is a truly original, unrepeatable, irreplaceable, unique, sacred, precious, creative, talented and healthy self that through a process of nature and nurture spends each moment of time evolving and expressing ourselves through love, compassion, caring, empathy and other virtuous relationships. Therapy is a process of celebrating the evolution of each person's true self. It is our way, modern and ancient, eastern and western, artistic and technological, spiritual and practical of Self development. Therapy is also our newest and oldest path of protecting, nurturing, supporting and upholding all that is virtuous, positive, meritorious, innocent, ethical, benevolent and philanthropic in ourselves while learning to handle, manage, cope, organize, and select our purpose, meaning and priorities in life. Therapy teaches us the surivival skills that help us become efficacious and masterful in life. We establish, goals we wish to achieve, priorities we wish to establish, a clear plan of action, which evolves as we evolve, with the help of a trained professional who respects both our free will and our fate, our unique mission and our destiny.
(201) 693-4298 View (201) 693-4298
Photo of Kenneth Langlieb, PhD, Psychologist
Kenneth Langlieb
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
My approach Integrates the best of Modern Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Traditional Holistic approaches. I specialize in treating anxiety, fears, phobias, OCD and panic disorders. Relief may be immediate. I also work with depression, negative thoughts and personal issues. Free initial phone consultation..
My approach Integrates the best of Modern Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Traditional Holistic approaches. I specialize in treating anxiety, fears, phobias, OCD and panic disorders. Relief may be immediate. I also work with depression, negative thoughts and personal issues. Free initial phone consultation..
(551) 210-2552 View (551) 210-2552
Photo of Shaun DeMauro - Summit Psychotherapy and Wellness Center. LLC, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Summit Psychotherapy and Wellness Center. LLC
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, NJ 07656
Summit Psychotherapy and Wellness Center LLC houses a unique combination of specialists supporting a holistic level of care through group and individual counseling sessions. We are comprised of two Licensed Doctoral Level professionals, a Registered Nurse, and a behaviorist. We look beyond the medical model and focus on positive psychological factors and strength based perspectives to assist in managing outcomes related to emotional, transitional, and cognitive developments. Our CEO, Dr. Shaun DeMauro Psy.D, will screen participants and will consult with our multidisciplinary team to ensure care is within our scope of practice.
Summit Psychotherapy and Wellness Center LLC houses a unique combination of specialists supporting a holistic level of care through group and individual counseling sessions. We are comprised of two Licensed Doctoral Level professionals, a Registered Nurse, and a behaviorist. We look beyond the medical model and focus on positive psychological factors and strength based perspectives to assist in managing outcomes related to emotional, transitional, and cognitive developments. Our CEO, Dr. Shaun DeMauro Psy.D, will screen participants and will consult with our multidisciplinary team to ensure care is within our scope of practice.
(551) 500-2040 View (551) 500-2040
Photo of Anton H Hart, PhD, Psychologist
Anton H Hart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
I am an experienced (20+years) clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst in full-time private practice on New York City's Upper West Side. I work with adults and adolescents in psychotherapy and in psychoanalysis. Many of the people with whom I work are quite intelligent, thoughtful and accomplished, but they still feel they could benefit from further personal inquiry into problems in living they may be encountering. I have multiple areas of specialization including work with mental health professionals, college students, faculty and administrators, physicians, parents, LGBTI people, racial and ethnic minorities, sexually abused people, and athletes.
I am an experienced (20+years) clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst in full-time private practice on New York City's Upper West Side. I work with adults and adolescents in psychotherapy and in psychoanalysis. Many of the people with whom I work are quite intelligent, thoughtful and accomplished, but they still feel they could benefit from further personal inquiry into problems in living they may be encountering. I have multiple areas of specialization including work with mental health professionals, college students, faculty and administrators, physicians, parents, LGBTI people, racial and ethnic minorities, sexually abused people, and athletes.
(845) 694-4447 View (845) 694-4447
Photo of Sam Maldonado, PhD, LPC, CHT, ASDCS, APM
Sam Maldonado
PhD, LPC, CHT, ASDCS, APM
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Divorce Mediator, Master Hypnotherapist, and Licensed Professional Counselor, with over 25,000 clinical hours. I have specializations in many areas including working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have specializations in Autism and Forensic Psychology. I possess a Post Doctoral Re-Specialization in Forensic Psychology. I have provided intervention and mediation for the courts, the state, and private clients. Call for further information 201-364-8474.
I am a Certified Divorce Mediator, Master Hypnotherapist, and Licensed Professional Counselor, with over 25,000 clinical hours. I have specializations in many areas including working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have specializations in Autism and Forensic Psychology. I possess a Post Doctoral Re-Specialization in Forensic Psychology. I have provided intervention and mediation for the courts, the state, and private clients. Call for further information 201-364-8474.
(201) 231-8238 View (201) 231-8238
Photo of E. Martin Walker - All Lifespan Development E. Martin Walker, PhD, Psychologist
All Lifespan Development E. Martin Walker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Serving Bergen/Rockland Counties and Manhattan, I bring 30 years as a psychotherapist, 25 years as a family and couples therapist, and 20 years of practicing behavioral and physical rehabilitation medicine and years of contemplative and body art practices (YTT200) to a psychology practice that incorporates evidenced-based treatments with contemporary psychoanalytic practices and body/mind perspectives. Therapy works with mind, body, and between ourselves and others in a relationship that frees the creative potential for healing, discovering new inspiration for transforming self, work and relationships.
Serving Bergen/Rockland Counties and Manhattan, I bring 30 years as a psychotherapist, 25 years as a family and couples therapist, and 20 years of practicing behavioral and physical rehabilitation medicine and years of contemplative and body art practices (YTT200) to a psychology practice that incorporates evidenced-based treatments with contemporary psychoanalytic practices and body/mind perspectives. Therapy works with mind, body, and between ourselves and others in a relationship that frees the creative potential for healing, discovering new inspiration for transforming self, work and relationships.
(917) 746-3823 View (917) 746-3823
Photo of Kenneth A Frank, MS,  PhD, Psychologist
Kenneth A Frank
Psychologist, MS, PhD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
First, I invite you to learn more about me and my work by visiting my website. If you think we may be a match, we can arrange a complimentary 15-minute consultation. I offer this because I believe entering psychotherapy can be one of the most important, life-altering decisions you ever make. Your decision to go into therapy probably was not easy, and the choice of a therapist deserves even greater consideration. You must, in addition to evaluating a therapist’s training and experience, find the right person. Success depends on a good “match” requiring empathy, trust, safety, and respect, sometimes spiced with humor and playfulness.
First, I invite you to learn more about me and my work by visiting my website. If you think we may be a match, we can arrange a complimentary 15-minute consultation. I offer this because I believe entering psychotherapy can be one of the most important, life-altering decisions you ever make. Your decision to go into therapy probably was not easy, and the choice of a therapist deserves even greater consideration. You must, in addition to evaluating a therapist’s training and experience, find the right person. Success depends on a good “match” requiring empathy, trust, safety, and respect, sometimes spiced with humor and playfulness.
(201) 568-3440 View (201) 568-3440
Photo of Robert Galarowicz - Holistic Naturopathic Healing & Energy Psychology, PhD, ND
Holistic Naturopathic Healing & Energy Psychology
PhD, ND
Verified Verified
Wood Ridge, NJ 07075
Do You Want Improvement In Your Emotional/Mental Issues and Change Habits in 1 to 3 Sessions? .. Want To Move Forward From The Past Quickly and Easily? .. Find out how, in just 1 to 3 sessions, you could be much better, healhier, happier and accomplishing your goals, thanks to Dr. Robert's Energy Psychology & Mindy/Body Therapies. Dr. Robert has already helped hundreds of people accomplish what they desire and can help you in a short amount of time! .... It doesn't matter if you have trauma, PTSD, anxiety, want to lose weight, stop smoking, etc, I can Help You!
Do You Want Improvement In Your Emotional/Mental Issues and Change Habits in 1 to 3 Sessions? .. Want To Move Forward From The Past Quickly and Easily? .. Find out how, in just 1 to 3 sessions, you could be much better, healhier, happier and accomplishing your goals, thanks to Dr. Robert's Energy Psychology & Mindy/Body Therapies. Dr. Robert has already helped hundreds of people accomplish what they desire and can help you in a short amount of time! .... It doesn't matter if you have trauma, PTSD, anxiety, want to lose weight, stop smoking, etc, I can Help You!
(201) 257-5689 View (201) 257-5689
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.