Chronic Pain Therapists in Albuquerque, NM

Photo of David B. Fisher Hypnotherapy in Albuquerque, NM
David B. Fisher Hypnotherapy
CMS, CHT, NLP, FIBH, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87110
My scope of practice includes but is not limited to Anxiety, Personal Goal Achievement, Accelerated Healing & Learning, Pain Management, Weight Management, Smoking Cessation, Allergies, Traumas, Phobias, Cancer, Test Anxiety, PTSD, Habits, Substance Abuse & Addictions, Self-Esteem, Grieving, Sound Sleep, Regression Therapy and customized Self-Hypnosis.
I am a full time practicing Clinical Hypnotherapist, NLP, EMDR and Reiki Practitioner/Teacher. My life passion is to assist others to lead a happier and healthier life. Practicing Hypnotherapy for 13 years and Reiki for 24 years, I offer a free consultation, discounted packages, sliding scale and online sessions. Hypnotherapy is a Medical Adjunct. I do not practice medicine. However, Hypnotherapy has become a proven modality with a 93% success rate which has assisted many in healing themselves and living a healthier more productive & meaningful life. You can change your life by altering your attitude, associations and perceptions.
My scope of practice includes but is not limited to Anxiety, Personal Goal Achievement, Accelerated Healing & Learning, Pain Management, Weight Management, Smoking Cessation, Allergies, Traumas, Phobias, Cancer, Test Anxiety, PTSD, Habits, Substance Abuse & Addictions, Self-Esteem, Grieving, Sound Sleep, Regression Therapy and customized Self-Hypnosis.
I am a full time practicing Clinical Hypnotherapist, NLP, EMDR and Reiki Practitioner/Teacher. My life passion is to assist others to lead a happier and healthier life. Practicing Hypnotherapy for 13 years and Reiki for 24 years, I offer a free consultation, discounted packages, sliding scale and online sessions. Hypnotherapy is a Medical Adjunct. I do not practice medicine. However, Hypnotherapy has become a proven modality with a 93% success rate which has assisted many in healing themselves and living a healthier more productive & meaningful life. You can change your life by altering your attitude, associations and perceptions.
(505) 322-6638 View (505) 322-6638
Photo of Gary J Neuger, Psychologist in Albuquerque, NM
Gary J Neuger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87109
Have you been in therapy before for months or even years never achieving your goals? I hear that often from new patients. Let's work together to do something different! Hypnosis and EMDR together make a powerful combination for change! I treat adolescents and adults with: Pain, Trauma, PTSD, Smoking Cessation, Weight Loss, Anxiety, Depression, Stress Management, Phobias, Fear of Public Speaking, Test Anxiety, Addictions, Hair Pulling, Nail Biting, Sport Performance Enhancement, Injury Rehabilitation, Peak Performance, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Conversion Disorders. Click the "Website" link to the left to go to my website to learn more: www.intelligenthypnotherapy.com
Have you been in therapy before for months or even years never achieving your goals? I hear that often from new patients. Let's work together to do something different! Hypnosis and EMDR together make a powerful combination for change! I treat adolescents and adults with: Pain, Trauma, PTSD, Smoking Cessation, Weight Loss, Anxiety, Depression, Stress Management, Phobias, Fear of Public Speaking, Test Anxiety, Addictions, Hair Pulling, Nail Biting, Sport Performance Enhancement, Injury Rehabilitation, Peak Performance, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Conversion Disorders. Click the "Website" link to the left to go to my website to learn more: www.intelligenthypnotherapy.com
(505) 539-2296 View (505) 539-2296
Photo of Kathryn Fehr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albuquerque, NM
Kathryn Fehr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCE Sup, CTRS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87102  (Online Only)
I have a passion for helping individuals, parents, couples, older teens, older adults and those coping with chronic pain and illness.
Over my years of experience, I have learned the importance of incorporating emotional healing with body healing. Both are critical to healing the whole self. I will help you learn to start putting yourself first, which leads to improving your relationship both with yourself and those you care about in your life. I believe that self-care is critical on this path. We will work together to figure out your “why”, the reason you are showing up for yourself and reliance in the promises you are making.
I have a passion for helping individuals, parents, couples, older teens, older adults and those coping with chronic pain and illness.
Over my years of experience, I have learned the importance of incorporating emotional healing with body healing. Both are critical to healing the whole self. I will help you learn to start putting yourself first, which leads to improving your relationship both with yourself and those you care about in your life. I believe that self-care is critical on this path. We will work together to figure out your “why”, the reason you are showing up for yourself and reliance in the promises you are making.
(505) 393-2385 View (505) 393-2385
Photo of Life Re-Created: Psychotherapy & Health Promotion, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Life Re-Created: Psychotherapy & Health Promotion
Counselor, MPH, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87198  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you a person who is experiencing a disability or chronic illness and feel your needs are not met in most care settings? Are you pregnant or just had a baby and need extra support? Are you the parent of a disabled child and the child, a sibling or you need extra support for the child to grow and reach her or his full potential? Are you a creative type and need help to focus and be productive in your creative work? Are you the parent of a gifted child and need extra help raising this child or is the child in need of services due to trouble at home or school?Are you a spiritual seeker and need to talk about unusual experiences?
Are you a person who is experiencing a disability or chronic illness and feel your needs are not met in most care settings? Are you pregnant or just had a baby and need extra support? Are you the parent of a disabled child and the child, a sibling or you need extra support for the child to grow and reach her or his full potential? Are you a creative type and need help to focus and be productive in your creative work? Are you the parent of a gifted child and need extra help raising this child or is the child in need of services due to trouble at home or school?Are you a spiritual seeker and need to talk about unusual experiences?
(505) 796-6710 View (505) 796-6710
Photo of Kandi Collier, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Kandi Collier
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87111
Waitlist for new clients
I work with my clients to understand their concerns holistically and to help clients and families find solutions that will improve their lives. I have experience with adults and teens going through life transitions, anxiety, depression, anger, self-esteem, grief, job transitions, divorce, pet bereavement and managing chronic pain. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
I work with my clients to understand their concerns holistically and to help clients and families find solutions that will improve their lives. I have experience with adults and teens going through life transitions, anxiety, depression, anger, self-esteem, grief, job transitions, divorce, pet bereavement and managing chronic pain. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
(505) 436-3199 View (505) 436-3199
Photo of Louise Miller Psychotherapy, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Louise Miller Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87111  (Online Only)
My focus is to mutually discover possible sources of the pain, build on strengths, and develop healthier ways of coping with difficulties, dilemmas, and journeys.
Louise Miller MA, LPCC, NCC is a psychotherapist in Albuquerque, NM with an engaging style and approach who works well with people who are curious about their issues, actively interested in knowing themselves more deeply, and improving their lives. Counseling and therapy can dramatically assist people in many areas of their lives, not the least of which are to be able to know oneself and to find meaning and purpose, to be able to have one's feelings, not to be ruled by them, or defined by them.
My focus is to mutually discover possible sources of the pain, build on strengths, and develop healthier ways of coping with difficulties, dilemmas, and journeys.
Louise Miller MA, LPCC, NCC is a psychotherapist in Albuquerque, NM with an engaging style and approach who works well with people who are curious about their issues, actively interested in knowing themselves more deeply, and improving their lives. Counseling and therapy can dramatically assist people in many areas of their lives, not the least of which are to be able to know oneself and to find meaning and purpose, to be able to have one's feelings, not to be ruled by them, or defined by them.
(505) 385-0562 View (505) 385-0562
Photo of Mae Lynn Spahr, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Mae Lynn Spahr
Counselor, PhD, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87108
I also specialize in A Drug Free Alternative, providing treatment for people suffering from ADD/ADHD, memory, focus, and attention problems, learning disabilities, sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, stress, physical trauma, headache/migraine and chronic pain.
Adults, children, adolescents, and couples: Going through a major transition? Working through a difficult time? I am an optimistic therapist that can help you. Need a different perspective? Need to brainstorm? Need to problem solve? I am a practical therapist that will help you with working through life transitions. I will facilitate a process that will help you explore, evaluate, and move through the situation you are in. I utilize many modalities of treatment during which I focus on the here and now. I can help you explore what is going on and what is the best course to help.
I also specialize in A Drug Free Alternative, providing treatment for people suffering from ADD/ADHD, memory, focus, and attention problems, learning disabilities, sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, stress, physical trauma, headache/migraine and chronic pain.
Adults, children, adolescents, and couples: Going through a major transition? Working through a difficult time? I am an optimistic therapist that can help you. Need a different perspective? Need to brainstorm? Need to problem solve? I am a practical therapist that will help you with working through life transitions. I will facilitate a process that will help you explore, evaluate, and move through the situation you are in. I utilize many modalities of treatment during which I focus on the here and now. I can help you explore what is going on and what is the best course to help.
(505) 268-0421 View (505) 268-0421
Photo of Mark Robert Voss, Licensed Professional Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Mark Robert Voss
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87120  (Online Only)
I use a new, scientifically validated method, called Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), a chronic pain treatment that targets the brain alone.
Chronic pain, stress, anxiety, fear, distraction and depression — these all have a common root — our habitual response to our own feelings. This response feels automatic, but it is learned, and it can be changed. You can do this liberating work, and I can help. And, while I am a generalist and work with a wide variety of challenges, from traumatic memories to existential crises, I have a special place in my heart for chronic pain sufferers.
I use a new, scientifically validated method, called Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), a chronic pain treatment that targets the brain alone.
Chronic pain, stress, anxiety, fear, distraction and depression — these all have a common root — our habitual response to our own feelings. This response feels automatic, but it is learned, and it can be changed. You can do this liberating work, and I can help. And, while I am a generalist and work with a wide variety of challenges, from traumatic memories to existential crises, I have a special place in my heart for chronic pain sufferers.
(505) 388-0251 View (505) 388-0251
Photo of Cassie Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albuquerque, NM
Cassie Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87110
I understand that the decision to pursue therapy often comes after experiencing deep pain, which can make reaching out feel daunting.
Adjusting to major life transitions can take a toll on your mental health and overall wellbeing. Whether you are looking for help coping with a change in relationship, career, or family, finding and embracing your identity, enduring the grief of a loved one, or healing from past traumas, we can work together to decrease the suffering and find some enjoyment in life. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults through issues such as depression, anxiety, phobias, trauma, and grief. I strive to create a compassionate and comfortable space to get to know you and encourage your personal growth.
I understand that the decision to pursue therapy often comes after experiencing deep pain, which can make reaching out feel daunting.
Adjusting to major life transitions can take a toll on your mental health and overall wellbeing. Whether you are looking for help coping with a change in relationship, career, or family, finding and embracing your identity, enduring the grief of a loved one, or healing from past traumas, we can work together to decrease the suffering and find some enjoyment in life. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults through issues such as depression, anxiety, phobias, trauma, and grief. I strive to create a compassionate and comfortable space to get to know you and encourage your personal growth.
(505) 657-2413 View (505) 657-2413
Photo of Avenidas Nuevas Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albuquerque, NM
Avenidas Nuevas Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87106
I have attended and been trained in Trauma focus Cognitive Behavior Treatment, CBT, and DBT and Mindfulness, and ACT and Substance Abuse and chronic pain topics.
I've been involved in the social service/mental health field since 07. My experience and career of assisting other ranges from working at a homeless shelter to incarcerated youth to Adult Inpatient Psych to One on one/Group General Mental Health concerns. Many of client concerns that I have assisted range from past/present trauma events, distorted view of self, and substance abuse and life transitions and cognitive distortions and depressed/anxious mood and etc. All with the goal of seeking some form of peace and balance in their lives.
I have attended and been trained in Trauma focus Cognitive Behavior Treatment, CBT, and DBT and Mindfulness, and ACT and Substance Abuse and chronic pain topics.
I've been involved in the social service/mental health field since 07. My experience and career of assisting other ranges from working at a homeless shelter to incarcerated youth to Adult Inpatient Psych to One on one/Group General Mental Health concerns. Many of client concerns that I have assisted range from past/present trauma events, distorted view of self, and substance abuse and life transitions and cognitive distortions and depressed/anxious mood and etc. All with the goal of seeking some form of peace and balance in their lives.
(505) 240-8938 View (505) 240-8938
Photo of Deb Frye, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Deb Frye
Counselor, BSN, RN, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
Because there are times in many people's lives when circumstances can become overwhelming, I am dedicated to working with you to reestablish balance and discover your highest potential. Age groups from adolescence through older adulthood are my specialty. I work with a variety of concerns, including grief and loss, substance and alcohol abuse, anxiety, depression, issues with chronic illness and aging.Implementing a range of approaches that will best meet your style and enable you to meet your goals, combined with a sincere desire to help people, are the skills I bring to the client relationship.
Because there are times in many people's lives when circumstances can become overwhelming, I am dedicated to working with you to reestablish balance and discover your highest potential. Age groups from adolescence through older adulthood are my specialty. I work with a variety of concerns, including grief and loss, substance and alcohol abuse, anxiety, depression, issues with chronic illness and aging.Implementing a range of approaches that will best meet your style and enable you to meet your goals, combined with a sincere desire to help people, are the skills I bring to the client relationship.
(505) 488-0762 View (505) 488-0762
Photo of Elizabeth Kershner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albuquerque, NM
Elizabeth Kershner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110  (Online Only)
My experience includes working with people with the following concerns-anxiety and depression, bipolar disorder, chronic illness, life transitions including end of life, neurodivergence, and relationship problems.
Hi, and welcome to my telehealth practice! My ideal client is someone who is motivated to make changes they feel are necessary to improve their quality of life. My approach includes a strengths-based perspective, exploring the past to inform present with CBT-informed practice. I see each person as whole just as they are, and as a partner with me in the therapy process. You can expect to be treated with respect, compassion and empathy, and without judgement or criticism. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2006.
My experience includes working with people with the following concerns-anxiety and depression, bipolar disorder, chronic illness, life transitions including end of life, neurodivergence, and relationship problems.
Hi, and welcome to my telehealth practice! My ideal client is someone who is motivated to make changes they feel are necessary to improve their quality of life. My approach includes a strengths-based perspective, exploring the past to inform present with CBT-informed practice. I see each person as whole just as they are, and as a partner with me in the therapy process. You can expect to be treated with respect, compassion and empathy, and without judgement or criticism. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2006.
(505) 421-6820 View (505) 421-6820
Photo of Danelle Becklund, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Danelle Becklund
Counselor, LPCC, CH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87106
She uses hypnosis to manage her own issues with stress and chronic pain.
Is it time for you to feel free from stress and anxiety? Is it time to make changes to old patterns that no longer serve you? Hypnosis is a transformative process where the therapist and participant work collaboratively to achieve the desired outcome. The therapist helps the person tap into inner resources and strengths that can aid in the healing process. The expectancy of the outcome is important and both parties work together to help reach desired results. The sessions are recorded for the participants to listen to and practice on their own.
She uses hypnosis to manage her own issues with stress and chronic pain.
Is it time for you to feel free from stress and anxiety? Is it time to make changes to old patterns that no longer serve you? Hypnosis is a transformative process where the therapist and participant work collaboratively to achieve the desired outcome. The therapist helps the person tap into inner resources and strengths that can aid in the healing process. The expectancy of the outcome is important and both parties work together to help reach desired results. The sessions are recorded for the participants to listen to and practice on their own.
(505) 933-8581 View (505) 933-8581
Photo of Don Hamilton/ dba Behavior Support Solutions, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Don Hamilton/ dba Behavior Support Solutions
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87112  (Online Only)
Do you feel lost and alone even in a crowd of people? Are you tired of having a life that looks good on paper, but means nothing to you? PTSD, Depression and underlying anxiety can make life unbearable. I can help. The worst part of living with trauma and anxiety is the effect it has on relationships. It can really gut your most precious possessions, your ties to those you love. Isn't it time to let go of shame and that familiar old pain? Shoot me a text at 505-573-2933 and we can set up a time to talk about it.
Do you feel lost and alone even in a crowd of people? Are you tired of having a life that looks good on paper, but means nothing to you? PTSD, Depression and underlying anxiety can make life unbearable. I can help. The worst part of living with trauma and anxiety is the effect it has on relationships. It can really gut your most precious possessions, your ties to those you love. Isn't it time to let go of shame and that familiar old pain? Shoot me a text at 505-573-2933 and we can set up a time to talk about it.
(505) 807-9862 View (505) 807-9862
Photo of Kris Lichtle, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Kris Lichtle
Counselor, MA, PA, LPCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87107
I see people whose stress has manifested into pain or sexual dysfunction, and I provide the validation they deserve.
** Anxiety, panic disorder, trauma, PTSD, Medical PTSD ** Anxiety is physically painful. Your heart races. Your muscles tense. Your palms sweat. You have an overwhelming sense of dread as your natural fight or flight response kicks in. Do you fight back? Do you retreat to your own space? Or do you freeze in uncertainty? If you are experiencing anxiety on a daily basis, it is probably having a negative impact on your your health. Your back and shoulders hurt. Your quality of sleep is poor. You are fatigued, but you make yourself busier to justify your exhaustion.
I see people whose stress has manifested into pain or sexual dysfunction, and I provide the validation they deserve.
** Anxiety, panic disorder, trauma, PTSD, Medical PTSD ** Anxiety is physically painful. Your heart races. Your muscles tense. Your palms sweat. You have an overwhelming sense of dread as your natural fight or flight response kicks in. Do you fight back? Do you retreat to your own space? Or do you freeze in uncertainty? If you are experiencing anxiety on a daily basis, it is probably having a negative impact on your your health. Your back and shoulders hurt. Your quality of sleep is poor. You are fatigued, but you make yourself busier to justify your exhaustion.
(505) 227-8893 View (505) 227-8893
Photo of Jessie M Lane, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Jessie M Lane
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87107  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you experiencing fear, loneliness, anger, grief, chronic illness, or pain? Maybe you're transitioning or feeling un-rooted, on an edge, lost, anxious, and/or addicted? Our identities and perspectives are informed by how we relate to and make sense of these, and our other human, experiences. Knowledge of that we call 'self' is a continual and creative process, and includes integration of the unconscious - the parts of the psyche yet unknown to us. I help clients find focus and relax preconceived notions of how growth and healing occurs. This allows one to learn from their symptoms in order to ease suffering - to hold paradox.
Are you experiencing fear, loneliness, anger, grief, chronic illness, or pain? Maybe you're transitioning or feeling un-rooted, on an edge, lost, anxious, and/or addicted? Our identities and perspectives are informed by how we relate to and make sense of these, and our other human, experiences. Knowledge of that we call 'self' is a continual and creative process, and includes integration of the unconscious - the parts of the psyche yet unknown to us. I help clients find focus and relax preconceived notions of how growth and healing occurs. This allows one to learn from their symptoms in order to ease suffering - to hold paradox.
(505) 633-7170 View (505) 633-7170
Photo of Deani Ntiforo, Licensed Master Social Worker in Albuquerque, NM
Deani Ntiforo
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87109
Life is a beautiful experience however it comes with challenges, stressors, and pain. Therapy is a great tool to be able to assist in navigating all of the ups and downs we face in our daily lives. I am here to help you work towards your best self and assist in all of life’s experiences.
Life is a beautiful experience however it comes with challenges, stressors, and pain. Therapy is a great tool to be able to assist in navigating all of the ups and downs we face in our daily lives. I am here to help you work towards your best self and assist in all of life’s experiences.
(505) 657-9125 View (505) 657-9125
Photo of Jean Louise Ramsey, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Jean Louise Ramsey
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87107  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I find so much reward in watching others shed their pain and move forward.
Hello, my name is Jean Ramsey and I look forward to working with you. Through my training and struggles in my own life, I have learned compassion and practical ways to help others deal effectively with change and develop resiliency. In my over 20 years as a counselor, I have been fortunate to work with many different ages, cultures and life issues. I have experience working with people dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction, parenting and relationship issues as well as work and life dissatisfaction among other issues.
I find so much reward in watching others shed their pain and move forward.
Hello, my name is Jean Ramsey and I look forward to working with you. Through my training and struggles in my own life, I have learned compassion and practical ways to help others deal effectively with change and develop resiliency. In my over 20 years as a counselor, I have been fortunate to work with many different ages, cultures and life issues. I have experience working with people dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction, parenting and relationship issues as well as work and life dissatisfaction among other issues.
(505) 591-9361 View (505) 591-9361
Photo of Lauren Turner Dolan, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Lauren Turner Dolan
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87122  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer IFS Informed Therapy for women who want greater calm, clarity, and balance in their lives. I specialize in 1) Early Motherhood: pregnancy + postpartum, birth trauma, and babies with colic, reflux, and allergies 2) Anxiety: work anxiety, boundaries, caretaking, and perfectionism 3) Women's Health: pelvic floor dysfunction, medical trauma, and chronic pain.
I offer IFS Informed Therapy for women who want greater calm, clarity, and balance in their lives. I specialize in 1) Early Motherhood: pregnancy + postpartum, birth trauma, and babies with colic, reflux, and allergies 2) Anxiety: work anxiety, boundaries, caretaking, and perfectionism 3) Women's Health: pelvic floor dysfunction, medical trauma, and chronic pain.
(505) 392-3895 View (505) 392-3895
Photo of Ivy Anna Rizzo, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Ivy Anna Rizzo
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RYT
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87104
I have specialized skill in chronic pain and illness as well as BFRBs.
I’m a highly experienced psychotherapist working with clients in Santa Fe and Albuquerque. I love moving with people through the places they want to change and grow. I’m honored to help those seeking clarity, calm, wisdom, freedom, and understanding.
I have specialized skill in chronic pain and illness as well as BFRBs.
I’m a highly experienced psychotherapist working with clients in Santa Fe and Albuquerque. I love moving with people through the places they want to change and grow. I’m honored to help those seeking clarity, calm, wisdom, freedom, and understanding.
(505) 405-4562 View (505) 405-4562

Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Albuquerque

See More Chronic Pain Therapists
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.