Chronic Pain Therapists in Queen Village, Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Caryn Seebach - Caryn Seebach, LLC, MS, PsyD, Psychologist
Caryn Seebach, LLC
Psychologist, MS, PsyD
Verified Verified
Queen Village, Philadelphia, PA 19147  (Online Only)
Hi! I am Dr. Caryn. I am a licensed health psychologist and Duke trained health coach with over 20 years of experience working with patients with chronic health conditions like chronic pain, migraine, autoimmune, diabetes/pre-diabetes, and sleep problems. As a health psychologist, I work at the intersection of physical health and mental health (because it’s all related!) and treat both using the best of mind/body medicine. My typical client is sick of feeling sick and unsupported by the healthcare system They want to feel successful and in control of their health so they can break out of the never ending cycle of (dis)ease.
Hi! I am Dr. Caryn. I am a licensed health psychologist and Duke trained health coach with over 20 years of experience working with patients with chronic health conditions like chronic pain, migraine, autoimmune, diabetes/pre-diabetes, and sleep problems. As a health psychologist, I work at the intersection of physical health and mental health (because it’s all related!) and treat both using the best of mind/body medicine. My typical client is sick of feeling sick and unsupported by the healthcare system They want to feel successful and in control of their health so they can break out of the never ending cycle of (dis)ease.
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Photo of Abigail Abbas - Arcline Associates Counsel Services, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arcline Associates Counsel Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Queen Village, Philadelphia, PA 19149
Smile! Our specialties include GeriCare© (older adults with complicated grief/loss); chronic illness/pain; depression; relationships; coping; acceptance; D&A. Conflict Resolution: Adolescent behavioral & school conflict; bicultural, acculturation, assimilation, ethnicity socialization conflict; identity & intergenerational conflict. Stress/Anger Mgmt. Occupational Stress: Welcome Law Enforcement, First Responders, Hospital & Crisis Workers; Aviation Personnel. Parent Child Interaction. Marriage Family Couples Counseling. Emphasis on Family Systems, Relational, Interpersonal, Ecological Theory. Trauma Informed, DBT/CBT. PA Medicare & CHIP Welcome!
Smile! Our specialties include GeriCare© (older adults with complicated grief/loss); chronic illness/pain; depression; relationships; coping; acceptance; D&A. Conflict Resolution: Adolescent behavioral & school conflict; bicultural, acculturation, assimilation, ethnicity socialization conflict; identity & intergenerational conflict. Stress/Anger Mgmt. Occupational Stress: Welcome Law Enforcement, First Responders, Hospital & Crisis Workers; Aviation Personnel. Parent Child Interaction. Marriage Family Couples Counseling. Emphasis on Family Systems, Relational, Interpersonal, Ecological Theory. Trauma Informed, DBT/CBT. PA Medicare & CHIP Welcome!
(267) 460-7146 View (267) 460-7146
Photo of Laura Hawley, LCSW, Lic, Ac, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Hawley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Lic, Ac
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Queen Village, Philadelphia, PA 19147
I've helped many people challenged by family history, trauma, anxiety, depression, overwhelm, burnout, isolation, grief and chronic illness to resolve difficulties at work, home or in relationships.
It is hard being a person. We often engage in patterns of feeling, thought and action that reliably lead to suffering. These patterns arise in response to difficult and even traumatic experiences. They made good sense at some point, but now get in the way, causing anxiety, depression, shame and frustration. I work with people to bring increased awareness to the human potential caught up in old patterns, and via that awareness, to an enhanced sense of choice and self confidence and ease. My work draws on your wisdom, as well as my own.
I've helped many people challenged by family history, trauma, anxiety, depression, overwhelm, burnout, isolation, grief and chronic illness to resolve difficulties at work, home or in relationships.
It is hard being a person. We often engage in patterns of feeling, thought and action that reliably lead to suffering. These patterns arise in response to difficult and even traumatic experiences. They made good sense at some point, but now get in the way, causing anxiety, depression, shame and frustration. I work with people to bring increased awareness to the human potential caught up in old patterns, and via that awareness, to an enhanced sense of choice and self confidence and ease. My work draws on your wisdom, as well as my own.
(215) 515-6272 View (215) 515-6272
Photo of Colette A Grosso, MSW, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colette A Grosso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Queen Village, Philadelphia, PA 19147
We will put words to the patterns and pain points that prevent peace.
I specialize in working with achievement-oriented folks across the gender and sexuality spectrum who may experience anxiety, relationship stress, CPTSD, complicated grief, substance abuse, codependency, and difficulty with emotionally immature parents. I have 10+ years of experience working with adults in Philadelphia. My work with clients is relationally based and is influenced by somatic experiencing, Internal Family Systems, and mindfulness techniques.
We will put words to the patterns and pain points that prevent peace.
I specialize in working with achievement-oriented folks across the gender and sexuality spectrum who may experience anxiety, relationship stress, CPTSD, complicated grief, substance abuse, codependency, and difficulty with emotionally immature parents. I have 10+ years of experience working with adults in Philadelphia. My work with clients is relationally based and is influenced by somatic experiencing, Internal Family Systems, and mindfulness techniques.
(484) 559-6756 View (484) 559-6756
Photo of Talia Palant, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Talia Palant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Queen Village, Philadelphia, PA 19147  (Online Only)
Many who shoulder caregiving responsibilities often neglect their own well-being while tending to others' needs. Juggling these roles can lead to burnout, stress, and neglect of personal health. It's essential to recognize the importance of self-care and seek support when feeling overwhelmed. Through counseling, individuals can explore strategies to prioritize their own needs, set boundaries, and cultivate a healthy balance between caregiving and self-care. Let's work together to ensure both you and those you care for receive the attention and support you deserve.
Many who shoulder caregiving responsibilities often neglect their own well-being while tending to others' needs. Juggling these roles can lead to burnout, stress, and neglect of personal health. It's essential to recognize the importance of self-care and seek support when feeling overwhelmed. Through counseling, individuals can explore strategies to prioritize their own needs, set boundaries, and cultivate a healthy balance between caregiving and self-care. Let's work together to ensure both you and those you care for receive the attention and support you deserve.
(267) 458-7026 View (267) 458-7026
Photo of Patrick S Walden, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrick S Walden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Queen Village, Philadelphia, PA 19147
I’m a psychotherapist and EMDR Practitioner based in Philadelphia. I help adults from all over the US heal from trauma using talk therapy, EMDR therapy, and healing intensives. If you’ve experienced trauma, you’ll know just how much hold it can have over your life. Daily flashbacks, isolation, anxiety, nervousness, nightmares, and insomnia can bring life to a halt. Using EMDR, I've seen amazing results with my clients.
I’m a psychotherapist and EMDR Practitioner based in Philadelphia. I help adults from all over the US heal from trauma using talk therapy, EMDR therapy, and healing intensives. If you’ve experienced trauma, you’ll know just how much hold it can have over your life. Daily flashbacks, isolation, anxiety, nervousness, nightmares, and insomnia can bring life to a halt. Using EMDR, I've seen amazing results with my clients.
(267) 365-3416 View (267) 365-3416
Photo of Nicole Lipkin - Equilibria Psychological & Consultation Services, PsyD, MBA, Psychologist
Equilibria Psychological & Consultation Services
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Queen Village, Philadelphia, PA 19147
We are a group practice of over 70 therapists. At Equilibria, our goal is to help individuals achieve their personal potential and long term growth by compassionately and respectfully helping them live in balance. We utilize an integrative, strength based treatment model to address each individual's set of unique issues. Our belief is that treatment must be flexible and tailored to achieve symptom relief and increased self understanding.
We are a group practice of over 70 therapists. At Equilibria, our goal is to help individuals achieve their personal potential and long term growth by compassionately and respectfully helping them live in balance. We utilize an integrative, strength based treatment model to address each individual's set of unique issues. Our belief is that treatment must be flexible and tailored to achieve symptom relief and increased self understanding.
(484) 613-2595 View (484) 613-2595
Photo of Katherine Michos, PsyD, Psychologist
Katherine Michos
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Queen Village, Philadelphia, PA 19147
People decide to start therapy for a variety of reasons - depression and anxiety, ending of a relationship, a major life transition or self discovery, just to name a few. Whatever your personal reasons are to begin therapy, I believe that the process of therapy along with the therapeutic relationship serve as the vehicle to help you reach your goals. Based on your unique needs, we create a therapy treatment plan together. By creating a safe and non-judgmental space, I then work with you in a collaborative manner to help you identify your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors and discover how these three influence each other.
People decide to start therapy for a variety of reasons - depression and anxiety, ending of a relationship, a major life transition or self discovery, just to name a few. Whatever your personal reasons are to begin therapy, I believe that the process of therapy along with the therapeutic relationship serve as the vehicle to help you reach your goals. Based on your unique needs, we create a therapy treatment plan together. By creating a safe and non-judgmental space, I then work with you in a collaborative manner to help you identify your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors and discover how these three influence each other.
(267) 871-9624 View (267) 871-9624
Photo of Karen Libber Fishbein, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Libber Fishbein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Queen Village, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Waitlist for new clients
Hello prospective clients! Do you find yourself overwhelmed and burned out by day-to-day life? Is it a struggle to feel calm and focused enough to work towards your goals? Are you then left feeling helpless, depleted, and stuck? Unresolved mental health issues can lead to an endless loop of frustration. I look forward to assisting you in breaking this cycle. I am a clinical social worker with over a decade of experience. My primary intention as a therapist is to understand and support clients in a holistic manner. Each of my sessions are tailored to meet clients' current needs, and also to encourage long-term growth and healing.
Hello prospective clients! Do you find yourself overwhelmed and burned out by day-to-day life? Is it a struggle to feel calm and focused enough to work towards your goals? Are you then left feeling helpless, depleted, and stuck? Unresolved mental health issues can lead to an endless loop of frustration. I look forward to assisting you in breaking this cycle. I am a clinical social worker with over a decade of experience. My primary intention as a therapist is to understand and support clients in a holistic manner. Each of my sessions are tailored to meet clients' current needs, and also to encourage long-term growth and healing.
(267) 458-3937 View (267) 458-3937
Photo of Erika Pranzo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erika Pranzo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Queen Village, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Being a mother is the greatest joy of life, right? Maybe that is what you were told or maybe that is even how you feel from time to time. But right now, you constantly feel like you cannot catch a break. If any of this sounds familiar to you, please know that you are not alone. I work with women overcoming the challenges of anxiety, depression, pregnancy & postpartum and work/life balance. Through our work together, we can build healthy boundaries, communication tools and coping skills to make life a little easier. As someone who can understand, I look forward to helping you break old patterns and build a life you truly enjoy.
Being a mother is the greatest joy of life, right? Maybe that is what you were told or maybe that is even how you feel from time to time. But right now, you constantly feel like you cannot catch a break. If any of this sounds familiar to you, please know that you are not alone. I work with women overcoming the challenges of anxiety, depression, pregnancy & postpartum and work/life balance. Through our work together, we can build healthy boundaries, communication tools and coping skills to make life a little easier. As someone who can understand, I look forward to helping you break old patterns and build a life you truly enjoy.
(267) 609-9386 View (267) 609-9386
Photo of Jennifer Pacyon - Inquiry Psychological Services, LLC. , PsyD, Psychologist
Inquiry Psychological Services, LLC.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Queen Village, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Are you in need of a psychological assessment? Dr. Pacyon can help. Dr. Pacyon provides comprehensive assessments for ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, psychoeducational evaluations for school entry, IEP's, college accommodations, and standardized testing (STEP 1, bar, SAT/ACT, LSAT, GRE). Dr. Pacyon also provides forensic and non-forensic neuropsychological and psychological assessments for civil and criminal matters. Dr. Pacyon believes in upfront, fair pricing and reasonable timing for feedback and reports. Call to email Dr. Pacyon today for a free consultation, or check out her website at InquiryPsych.com.
Are you in need of a psychological assessment? Dr. Pacyon can help. Dr. Pacyon provides comprehensive assessments for ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, psychoeducational evaluations for school entry, IEP's, college accommodations, and standardized testing (STEP 1, bar, SAT/ACT, LSAT, GRE). Dr. Pacyon also provides forensic and non-forensic neuropsychological and psychological assessments for civil and criminal matters. Dr. Pacyon believes in upfront, fair pricing and reasonable timing for feedback and reports. Call to email Dr. Pacyon today for a free consultation, or check out her website at InquiryPsych.com.
(716) 300-6968 View (716) 300-6968
Photo of Sara Yassky, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Yassky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Queen Village, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Welcome. I believe therapy is an avenue of exploration that holds potential for individual and collective growth. I offer an integrated, holistic approach as a somatic psychotherapist. As a healing centered therapist, I am committed to providing a space that values and honors the ways each of us have learned to survive while believing in each person’s right and ability to thrive. Whether you are interested in healing past wounds/trauma, working with your relationship to self and others, managing depression or anxiety, or increasing your capacity for aliveness, I will support your goals with curiosity and compassion.
Welcome. I believe therapy is an avenue of exploration that holds potential for individual and collective growth. I offer an integrated, holistic approach as a somatic psychotherapist. As a healing centered therapist, I am committed to providing a space that values and honors the ways each of us have learned to survive while believing in each person’s right and ability to thrive. Whether you are interested in healing past wounds/trauma, working with your relationship to self and others, managing depression or anxiety, or increasing your capacity for aliveness, I will support your goals with curiosity and compassion.
(215) 392-6958 View (215) 392-6958
Photo of Rox Costello, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rox Costello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Queen Village, Philadelphia, PA 19147  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
A person who is struggling is not broken. You are not a machine in need of repair, but are instead a complicated and complex beings surviving in a just as complicated and complex world. Thus, I hope to support you through your own self-discovery with radical level of love, acceptance, and compassion so you can model that same love, acceptance, and self-compassion within. I aim to provide a warm, inviting, and brave space to share without fear of judgment.
A person who is struggling is not broken. You are not a machine in need of repair, but are instead a complicated and complex beings surviving in a just as complicated and complex world. Thus, I hope to support you through your own self-discovery with radical level of love, acceptance, and compassion so you can model that same love, acceptance, and self-compassion within. I aim to provide a warm, inviting, and brave space to share without fear of judgment.
(484) 246-8736 View (484) 246-8736

Online Therapists

Photo of Caroline Robboy - The Center for Growth/Sex Therapy in Philadelphia, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Center for Growth/Sex Therapy in Philadelphia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Alex Caroline Robboy, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW is the founder of the Center for Growth Inc, a 30 + therapist group practice in 4 states. She has 20+ years of experience working with children and adults who are struggling to overcome sexual disorders, postpartum depression, grief, panic, chronic pain, depression, anger, anxiety, shame. trauma, tourettes and addiction. She focuses on individuals, couples and family therapy. Therapists at Alex's practice are able to see clients for as low as 50$. You cam self schedule online at her website.
Alex Caroline Robboy, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW is the founder of the Center for Growth Inc, a 30 + therapist group practice in 4 states. She has 20+ years of experience working with children and adults who are struggling to overcome sexual disorders, postpartum depression, grief, panic, chronic pain, depression, anger, anxiety, shame. trauma, tourettes and addiction. She focuses on individuals, couples and family therapy. Therapists at Alex's practice are able to see clients for as low as 50$. You cam self schedule online at her website.
(267) 888-4162 View (267) 888-4162
Photo of Morgan Rakay, MA, LPC, BC-DMT, Counselor
Morgan Rakay
Counselor, MA, LPC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19128
I often view my work as supporting bodies in transition - in whatever form that comes. Many of my clients are those with medical illness or injury, caregivers, mothers, or trauma survivors who are faced with the impact that change in their physical self has on their mental and emotional well-being. Clients often wish to explore the mind-body connection, integrate non-verbal approaches, or find a new perspective on therapy. I also work with infants and children who deserve the same compassionate care, but don't benefit from verbal therapy in the same way.
I often view my work as supporting bodies in transition - in whatever form that comes. Many of my clients are those with medical illness or injury, caregivers, mothers, or trauma survivors who are faced with the impact that change in their physical self has on their mental and emotional well-being. Clients often wish to explore the mind-body connection, integrate non-verbal approaches, or find a new perspective on therapy. I also work with infants and children who deserve the same compassionate care, but don't benefit from verbal therapy in the same way.
(215) 273-9476 View (215) 273-9476
Photo of Marquita Bolden - Therapy Center of Philadelphia, PhD, LCSW, LMFT, LPC, PsyD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Therapy Center of Philadelphia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LMFT, LPC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
We help people with depression, anxiety, and relationship pain.
With 50 years of experience, Therapy Center of Philadelphia offers a healing space that is accessible, deep, and lasting. We do this by meeting you fully in your experience and identity. We pay attention to the therapy relationship and de-emphasize diagnosing people. We consider systemic oppression (racism, misogyny, anti-queerness, cissexism) as a form of trauma and explore this as part of the healing work. All of our therapists strive to be trans-affirming and we offer support around medical transition. Serving adult women and trans communities, our therapy services are offered on a sliding fee scale and without treatment limits.
We help people with depression, anxiety, and relationship pain.
With 50 years of experience, Therapy Center of Philadelphia offers a healing space that is accessible, deep, and lasting. We do this by meeting you fully in your experience and identity. We pay attention to the therapy relationship and de-emphasize diagnosing people. We consider systemic oppression (racism, misogyny, anti-queerness, cissexism) as a form of trauma and explore this as part of the healing work. All of our therapists strive to be trans-affirming and we offer support around medical transition. Serving adult women and trans communities, our therapy services are offered on a sliding fee scale and without treatment limits.
(267) 310-1241 View (267) 310-1241
Photo of Leilei Duan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leilei Duan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I specialize in neurobiology-informed psychotherapy to address anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, attachment issues, etc.. My approach is integrative and whole person wellbeing focused. Psychological issues closely interact with physical health issues, such as chronic illness/pain, energy deficiency, sleeping, memory loss, eating/weight issues, etc. In therapy, I will work with you on the interdependent issues from psychological, biological, and environmental aspects and help you gain insights of your mind, body, and experiences, and use practical strategies to obtain healing and improve your quality of life.
I specialize in neurobiology-informed psychotherapy to address anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, attachment issues, etc.. My approach is integrative and whole person wellbeing focused. Psychological issues closely interact with physical health issues, such as chronic illness/pain, energy deficiency, sleeping, memory loss, eating/weight issues, etc. In therapy, I will work with you on the interdependent issues from psychological, biological, and environmental aspects and help you gain insights of your mind, body, and experiences, and use practical strategies to obtain healing and improve your quality of life.
(267) 714-5107 View (267) 714-5107
Photo of Valerie Rosen, PhD, Psychologist
Valerie Rosen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I take a warm, active, and collaborative approach to helping my clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, eating concerns, chronic pain or illness, relationship problems, family conflict, grief and loss, coming out and other LGBTQ concerns, acculturation issues, and spiritual or existential concerns.
My goal as your therapist is to help you understand yourself better, take better care of yourself, and make healthier choices to enhance your relationships and meet your life goals. I try to understand your problems in the context of your personal life history, your family background, and your cultural identity.
I take a warm, active, and collaborative approach to helping my clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, eating concerns, chronic pain or illness, relationship problems, family conflict, grief and loss, coming out and other LGBTQ concerns, acculturation issues, and spiritual or existential concerns.
My goal as your therapist is to help you understand yourself better, take better care of yourself, and make healthier choices to enhance your relationships and meet your life goals. I try to understand your problems in the context of your personal life history, your family background, and your cultural identity.
(267) 362-9982 View (267) 362-9982
Photo of Renya Neonorton, Pre-Licensed Professional
Renya Neonorton
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19139  (Online Only)
My clients are dreaming of a better world but feel stuck in a world that is causing them great pain. They are passionate about change, both for themself and for the world around them, but might not know where or how to start. If this sounds like you, I want to offer you support in figuring out what change can even look like and how to reach towards it. I can't offer you "the answers" but I can offer you my belief in your ability to change yourself and your world, if you choose it. I view this change process as starting with self, connecting with community, and finally engaging in systems change.
My clients are dreaming of a better world but feel stuck in a world that is causing them great pain. They are passionate about change, both for themself and for the world around them, but might not know where or how to start. If this sounds like you, I want to offer you support in figuring out what change can even look like and how to reach towards it. I can't offer you "the answers" but I can offer you my belief in your ability to change yourself and your world, if you choose it. I view this change process as starting with self, connecting with community, and finally engaging in systems change.
(215) 608-5478 View (215) 608-5478
Photo of Kim Houghton, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kim Houghton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119  (Online Only)
To me, therapy is all about curiosity and kindness. Whether we’re talking about life-interrupting anxiety, patterns in eating disorders, mind-spinning negative self-talk, or life stressors you no longer want to just push down deep inside, I’m here for that journey with you. With that curiosity and kindness I love getting to hold both the beauty and pain of life with someone until they are ready to hold it all on their own. And in those moments getting to encourage them as they move towards their feelings, work through their pain, and emerge into life that is full, embodied, and reawakened.
To me, therapy is all about curiosity and kindness. Whether we’re talking about life-interrupting anxiety, patterns in eating disorders, mind-spinning negative self-talk, or life stressors you no longer want to just push down deep inside, I’m here for that journey with you. With that curiosity and kindness I love getting to hold both the beauty and pain of life with someone until they are ready to hold it all on their own. And in those moments getting to encourage them as they move towards their feelings, work through their pain, and emerge into life that is full, embodied, and reawakened.
(484) 851-2938 View (484) 851-2938

See more therapy options for Queen Village, Philadelphia

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.