Chronic Pain Therapists in Dallas, TX

Photo of Jo Anne Sheehan Spears, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jo Anne Sheehan Spears
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Dallas, TX 75204
Life is too short to live in pain, fear or without joy.
I treat individuals and couples to find answers to their problems. Depression, anxiety, relationships, stage of life problems and health problems are all areas of focus. I also have expertise in EMDR, emotional recovery from sexual assault, incest, chronic illness, adoption issues and HIV+.
Life is too short to live in pain, fear or without joy.
I treat individuals and couples to find answers to their problems. Depression, anxiety, relationships, stage of life problems and health problems are all areas of focus. I also have expertise in EMDR, emotional recovery from sexual assault, incest, chronic illness, adoption issues and HIV+.
(214) 296-0101 View (214) 296-0101
Photo of Anna W Stowell - Anna W. Stowell, PhD, PLLC, Psychologist, PhD
Anna W. Stowell, PhD, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Dallas, TX 75230
I also have a special interest in helping clients develop strategies for coping with chronic pain and medical illness, whether for themselves or for those caretaking for family members and friends with chronic pain.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, stuck or unsure of who you can talk to? These days, many people who have never struggled, or who have had ups and downs, are finding themselves to be in greater need of having a supportive sounding board. Primarily utilizing a cognitive behavioral approach, I focus on finding solutions for goals identified together in therapy, within a supportive, non-judgmental space. I work exclusively with individual adults, ages 18 and up.
I also have a special interest in helping clients develop strategies for coping with chronic pain and medical illness, whether for themselves or for those caretaking for family members and friends with chronic pain.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, stuck or unsure of who you can talk to? These days, many people who have never struggled, or who have had ups and downs, are finding themselves to be in greater need of having a supportive sounding board. Primarily utilizing a cognitive behavioral approach, I focus on finding solutions for goals identified together in therapy, within a supportive, non-judgmental space. I work exclusively with individual adults, ages 18 and up.
(214) 736-1910 View (214) 736-1910
Photo of Molly Cook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, RYT
Molly Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, RYT
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
Waitlist for new clients
If you're ready to navigate the complexities of life including things like trauma, addiction, chronic pain, or dysfunctional family dynamics with a compassionate guide, you're in the right place.
I take a holistic and relational approach to wellness, and use a variety of trauma-focused, neuroscience-informed methods. I'm here to help you rediscover resilience, rewrite your story, and find strength in the face of challenges.
If you're ready to navigate the complexities of life including things like trauma, addiction, chronic pain, or dysfunctional family dynamics with a compassionate guide, you're in the right place.
I take a holistic and relational approach to wellness, and use a variety of trauma-focused, neuroscience-informed methods. I'm here to help you rediscover resilience, rewrite your story, and find strength in the face of challenges.
(469) 382-4407 View (469) 382-4407
Photo of Claudia Espinosa - Behavioral Health Providers, Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Behavioral Health Providers
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Dallas, TX 75243
I am available to help individuals address concerns such as anxiety, depression, career stress, chronic pain, and insomnia utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy .
My ideal client is willing to put forth effort to make changes, address their issues, and have a more fulfilled life. I like to help patients maintain their motivation to make specific changes in their life so that they can reach their full potential. I am a Licensed Counselor and Licensed Psychological Associate with Behavioral Health Providers. I have 18 years of experience. I graduated with a Master’s degree in Community Counseling from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, TX and a Doctorate degree (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University in Dallas, TX.
I am available to help individuals address concerns such as anxiety, depression, career stress, chronic pain, and insomnia utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy .
My ideal client is willing to put forth effort to make changes, address their issues, and have a more fulfilled life. I like to help patients maintain their motivation to make specific changes in their life so that they can reach their full potential. I am a Licensed Counselor and Licensed Psychological Associate with Behavioral Health Providers. I have 18 years of experience. I graduated with a Master’s degree in Community Counseling from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, TX and a Doctorate degree (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University in Dallas, TX.
(469) 300-5999 View (469) 300-5999
Photo of Sara Black - Life Navigation Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Life Navigation Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Dallas, TX 75248
We see clients who are experiencing PTSD and other common co-occurring disorders including Functional Neurological Disorders (FND), Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), chronic pain, illness, and addiction.
Options include EMDR, expressive therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Positive Psychology, Dynamic Mindfulness, meditation and relaxation training, Mental Health Integrative Medicine nutritional consultation, and SSP, an auditory intervention designed to reduce stress and auditory sensitivity. You can also work with a Trauma Recovery Coach, receiving guidance and inspiration either at your home or via video in-between visits with your therapist.
We see clients who are experiencing PTSD and other common co-occurring disorders including Functional Neurological Disorders (FND), Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), chronic pain, illness, and addiction.
Options include EMDR, expressive therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Positive Psychology, Dynamic Mindfulness, meditation and relaxation training, Mental Health Integrative Medicine nutritional consultation, and SSP, an auditory intervention designed to reduce stress and auditory sensitivity. You can also work with a Trauma Recovery Coach, receiving guidance and inspiration either at your home or via video in-between visits with your therapist.
(972) 236-7744 View (972) 236-7744
Photo of Allison Ray Benavides, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Allison Ray Benavides
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
If chronic pain management has taken over everything, we may be a good fit.
I'm certified in Pain Reprocessing Therapy which is educational & instructional. I listen, teach & collaborate w/my clients. We practice simple, yet deep, techniques together. I also organically layer in EMDR, CBT, Mindfulness/Buddhist Psychology, "Tapping" & IFS. I heal w/poetry, art, nature, yoga, laughter, reiki, slowing down, silence & the sacred.
If chronic pain management has taken over everything, we may be a good fit.
I'm certified in Pain Reprocessing Therapy which is educational & instructional. I listen, teach & collaborate w/my clients. We practice simple, yet deep, techniques together. I also organically layer in EMDR, CBT, Mindfulness/Buddhist Psychology, "Tapping" & IFS. I heal w/poetry, art, nature, yoga, laughter, reiki, slowing down, silence & the sacred.
(210) 971-4414 View (210) 971-4414
Photo of Dr. Ben Lippe, Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Dr. Ben Lippe
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Online Only
Are you dealing with health problems like chronic illness, chronic pain, or adjusting to a new medical diagnosis such as cancer?
I specialize in Health Psychology assessment and counseling, exploring the relationships between your health, emotions, and behaviors. Board-certified in Clinical Health Psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology. I see patients via telehealth ("video visits") anywhere in Texas, allowing greater access to this highly specialized service.
Are you dealing with health problems like chronic illness, chronic pain, or adjusting to a new medical diagnosis such as cancer?
I specialize in Health Psychology assessment and counseling, exploring the relationships between your health, emotions, and behaviors. Board-certified in Clinical Health Psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology. I see patients via telehealth ("video visits") anywhere in Texas, allowing greater access to this highly specialized service.
(817) 954-8244 View (817) 954-8244
Photo of Sydney Wheeler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Sydney Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Wheeler works with teens and adults, specializing in trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, substance use, and chronic pain.
Passionate about helping clients navigate life’s challenges, Ms. Wheeler is dedicated to finding opportunities for peace, growth, and clarity through trauma-informed approaches. She is honored to walk alongside individuals in their struggles and triumphs, providing a compassionate and empowering therapeutic experience.
Wheeler works with teens and adults, specializing in trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, substance use, and chronic pain.
Passionate about helping clients navigate life’s challenges, Ms. Wheeler is dedicated to finding opportunities for peace, growth, and clarity through trauma-informed approaches. She is honored to walk alongside individuals in their struggles and triumphs, providing a compassionate and empowering therapeutic experience.
(469) 848-4214 View (469) 848-4214
Photo of Nancy A. Didriksen, Psychologist, PhD
Nancy A. Didriksen
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
I also evaluate patients with ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, MS and chronic pain.
As a clinical health psychologist, I use a variety of treatment modalities, including stress mgmt. and relaxation training, meditation, and guided imagery. I have also successfully utilized energy psychology techniques, primarily Thought Field Therapy, to reduce/eliminate the impact of past negative events and to reduce levels of anxiety and depression.
I also evaluate patients with ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, MS and chronic pain.
As a clinical health psychologist, I use a variety of treatment modalities, including stress mgmt. and relaxation training, meditation, and guided imagery. I have also successfully utilized energy psychology techniques, primarily Thought Field Therapy, to reduce/eliminate the impact of past negative events and to reduce levels of anxiety and depression.
(972) 528-9081 View (972) 528-9081
Photo of Kristina Sarkisova, Licensed Master Social Worker, MSSW, LMSW
Kristina Sarkisova
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSSW, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m especially passionate about supporting clients who are navigating life transitions, neurodivergence, trauma, grief, and chronic pain.
Accepting New Clients! If you feel like the ground beneath your feet has shifted, and you’re looking for someone with not just the clinical skills but the lived experience to help steady you – welcome. I’m glad you’re here. I’m a multi-cultural, queer, neurodivergent and trauma-sensitive psychotherapist who’s been a life-long immigrant and "self-reinventor", both by necessity and choice, and I’ll help you re-connect with and trust your knowing - something trauma and conditioning may cut us off from, but can't destroy. I'll draw from Neurobiology, Attachment, Parts Work and Somatics, and look to your nervous system to set the pace.
I’m especially passionate about supporting clients who are navigating life transitions, neurodivergence, trauma, grief, and chronic pain.
Accepting New Clients! If you feel like the ground beneath your feet has shifted, and you’re looking for someone with not just the clinical skills but the lived experience to help steady you – welcome. I’m glad you’re here. I’m a multi-cultural, queer, neurodivergent and trauma-sensitive psychotherapist who’s been a life-long immigrant and "self-reinventor", both by necessity and choice, and I’ll help you re-connect with and trust your knowing - something trauma and conditioning may cut us off from, but can't destroy. I'll draw from Neurobiology, Attachment, Parts Work and Somatics, and look to your nervous system to set the pace.
(512) 982-6027 View (512) 982-6027
Photo of Melinda Boyd, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Melinda Boyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a licensed professional counselor, I specialize in working with adults who face challenges in navigating complex relationship dynamics, dealing with chronic pain, and have experienced trauma.
During our initial sessions, we will collaboratively establish your goals and identify patterns in your behaviors and thoughts. My unique method combines brain science with therapeutic techniques to reboot thought processes and alleviate triggering sensory responses, all while enhancing the calming functions of your nervous system.
As a licensed professional counselor, I specialize in working with adults who face challenges in navigating complex relationship dynamics, dealing with chronic pain, and have experienced trauma.
During our initial sessions, we will collaboratively establish your goals and identify patterns in your behaviors and thoughts. My unique method combines brain science with therapeutic techniques to reboot thought processes and alleviate triggering sensory responses, all while enhancing the calming functions of your nervous system.
(512) 764-9366 View (512) 764-9366
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Boatman, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSE-S
Dr. Elizabeth Boatman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSE-S
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Although my specialty and training is in sex and relationships, those issues are often tangled with hormonal concerns, past relationship betrayals, history of trauma, medication side effects, communication issues, pelvic pain, identity issues, shame, depression
People come to me often feeling stuck and unsure about how to move forward with compassion and connection in their relationship. Since 2016 I have provided psychotherapy to help people improve their overall well-being and relationship health. ​I feel passionate about serving my community as an mental health advocate, and provide services related to sexual health, relationship dynamics, and collaborative shame-free care. If you're feeling stuck and not sure if counseling will help...let me just tell you, you're not alone.
Although my specialty and training is in sex and relationships, those issues are often tangled with hormonal concerns, past relationship betrayals, history of trauma, medication side effects, communication issues, pelvic pain, identity issues, shame, depression
People come to me often feeling stuck and unsure about how to move forward with compassion and connection in their relationship. Since 2016 I have provided psychotherapy to help people improve their overall well-being and relationship health. ​I feel passionate about serving my community as an mental health advocate, and provide services related to sexual health, relationship dynamics, and collaborative shame-free care. If you're feeling stuck and not sure if counseling will help...let me just tell you, you're not alone.
(817) 631-2185 View (817) 631-2185
Photo of Marian Zimmerman, Psychologist, PhD
Marian Zimmerman
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I take a whole body approach to health and illness with a focus on how the mind influences the body just as the body influences the mind.
Sometimes an injury, diagnosis, or medical treatment can change your life in ways you never expected. I can help you face these challenges and find a new normal. Together we can explore your mind body connection and use it to improve your physical functioning, emotional state, and overall health.
I take a whole body approach to health and illness with a focus on how the mind influences the body just as the body influences the mind.
Sometimes an injury, diagnosis, or medical treatment can change your life in ways you never expected. I can help you face these challenges and find a new normal. Together we can explore your mind body connection and use it to improve your physical functioning, emotional state, and overall health.
(214) 935-3975 View (214) 935-3975
Photo of Cherie Spellman, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Cherie Spellman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Get unstuck, heal from trauma, and find relief from physical pain and tension.
I am a Certified Brainspotting Consultant and certified Trauma and Body based therapist, I am certified in Safe and Sound Protocol and in Heart Math. My focus is on providing you all the resources you need to find last change. I also offer personalized intensives for those not wanting quick change and relief.
Get unstuck, heal from trauma, and find relief from physical pain and tension.
I am a Certified Brainspotting Consultant and certified Trauma and Body based therapist, I am certified in Safe and Sound Protocol and in Heart Math. My focus is on providing you all the resources you need to find last change. I also offer personalized intensives for those not wanting quick change and relief.
(682) 228-3790 View (682) 228-3790
Photo of Jennifer Wilson, Psychologist, PhD
Jennifer Wilson
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My integrative approach for counseling & assessment has assisted patients by collaboratively identifying practical tools to manage distress when simultaneously processing psychological distress whether from TBI/disabilities/chronic medical conditions including Long COVID, trauma-related symptoms (abuse, combat, car accidents, rape), pain, sleep, mood, anger, grief/loss, parenting, families, couples, divorce and blended families, custodial grandparenting, ADHD, learning disabilities, career assessment & counseling, managing stress, creativity & problem-solving.
I am a Licensed Counseling Psychologist Board Certified in Rehabilitation (probably more understandable as Disability) Psychology and Telehealth. I am also a PSYPACT provider can see patients from most states. My practice offers Telehealth services for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
My integrative approach for counseling & assessment has assisted patients by collaboratively identifying practical tools to manage distress when simultaneously processing psychological distress whether from TBI/disabilities/chronic medical conditions including Long COVID, trauma-related symptoms (abuse, combat, car accidents, rape), pain, sleep, mood, anger, grief/loss, parenting, families, couples, divorce and blended families, custodial grandparenting, ADHD, learning disabilities, career assessment & counseling, managing stress, creativity & problem-solving.
I am a Licensed Counseling Psychologist Board Certified in Rehabilitation (probably more understandable as Disability) Psychology and Telehealth. I am also a PSYPACT provider can see patients from most states. My practice offers Telehealth services for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
(210) 796-3889 View (210) 796-3889
Photo of Kelly Knight, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Kelly Knight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Online Only
Chronic pain and illness can impact all aspects of a person’s life.
Research supports that evidence based counseling techniques such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Mindfulness can be effective to help tap into your own unique strengths and abilities, learn to calm the mind, and focus on creating a plan to feel better.
Chronic pain and illness can impact all aspects of a person’s life.
Research supports that evidence based counseling techniques such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Mindfulness can be effective to help tap into your own unique strengths and abilities, learn to calm the mind, and focus on creating a plan to feel better.
(469) 608-2346 View (469) 608-2346
Photo of Alejandra Diaz, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Alejandra Diaz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
7 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
My clinical specializations include: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression problems, habit change, treating trauma, sexual abuse, behavioral problems, acute and chronic pain management, emotional co-dependence, self-esteem problems, self-empowerment and strengthening of inner resources.
I strongly believe in the potential of human beings to access their inner resources to create change and empower themselves to have the quality of life they want and they deserve. I am a Spanish/English Bilingual Therapist who works with adults. As an immigrant myself, I understand cross-cultural and acculturation situations that hinder daily life due to immigration processes. Part of my focus as a therapist is to comprehend and work with the nuances of different backgrounds and cultural needs. I have been a hypnotherapist for over 14 years. I have extensive training and experience in Traditional and Ericksonian Hypnosis. I also have training in healing emotional wounds through regressive techniques. I truly believe hypnosis is a magnificent technique to help clients reach out their inner resources, create change and empower themselves. As an active member of the North Texas Society of Clinical Hypnosis, I’ve had the opportunity to be part of international congresses in Mexico and Costa Rica as well as facilitated webinars with similar groups of professionals in Italy, France and Reunion Island.
My clinical specializations include: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression problems, habit change, treating trauma, sexual abuse, behavioral problems, acute and chronic pain management, emotional co-dependence, self-esteem problems, self-empowerment and strengthening of inner resources.
I strongly believe in the potential of human beings to access their inner resources to create change and empower themselves to have the quality of life they want and they deserve. I am a Spanish/English Bilingual Therapist who works with adults. As an immigrant myself, I understand cross-cultural and acculturation situations that hinder daily life due to immigration processes. Part of my focus as a therapist is to comprehend and work with the nuances of different backgrounds and cultural needs. I have been a hypnotherapist for over 14 years. I have extensive training and experience in Traditional and Ericksonian Hypnosis. I also have training in healing emotional wounds through regressive techniques. I truly believe hypnosis is a magnificent technique to help clients reach out their inner resources, create change and empower themselves. As an active member of the North Texas Society of Clinical Hypnosis, I’ve had the opportunity to be part of international congresses in Mexico and Costa Rica as well as facilitated webinars with similar groups of professionals in Italy, France and Reunion Island.
(469) 256-6876 View (469) 256-6876
Photo of Amber Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amber Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
People pleasing, family stress, anger, chronic pain, addictions, shame, insecurity; just a few ways trauma tends to show itself in your life.
I specialize in therapies beyond traditional talk therapy. If you've found limited symptom relief from talk therapy, perhaps consider something new. I'm an EMDR certified therapist, EMDR consultant in training, and Usui Reiki Master. I use Mindfulness based, Expressive Arts, IFS- informed methods and body-based healing methods in my trauma- focused work.
People pleasing, family stress, anger, chronic pain, addictions, shame, insecurity; just a few ways trauma tends to show itself in your life.
I specialize in therapies beyond traditional talk therapy. If you've found limited symptom relief from talk therapy, perhaps consider something new. I'm an EMDR certified therapist, EMDR consultant in training, and Usui Reiki Master. I use Mindfulness based, Expressive Arts, IFS- informed methods and body-based healing methods in my trauma- focused work.
(469) 481-1436 View (469) 481-1436
Photo of Linda Spang O'Toole, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, DBT-LBC
Linda Spang O'Toole
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, DBT-LBC
Dallas, TX 75206
Additionally, I treat clients suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety, and chronic pain.
I am a DBT LINEHAN BEHAVORIAL CERTIFIED practitioner. I am advanced-intensively trained in DBT, PE-DBT, and C-PTSD. Our team provides DBT-Adherent Treatment. This includes Individual Therapy, DBT Skills Group, Phone Coaching, Team Consultation, and DBT Skills Groups for Parents/Caregivers.
Additionally, I treat clients suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety, and chronic pain.
I am a DBT LINEHAN BEHAVORIAL CERTIFIED practitioner. I am advanced-intensively trained in DBT, PE-DBT, and C-PTSD. Our team provides DBT-Adherent Treatment. This includes Individual Therapy, DBT Skills Group, Phone Coaching, Team Consultation, and DBT Skills Groups for Parents/Caregivers.
(972) 918-0170 x4 View (972) 918-0170 x4
Photo of Dr. Robyn Jardine - Life Solutions Counseling & Family Therapy, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, LPC
Life Solutions Counseling & Family Therapy, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, LPC
Dallas, TX 75201
Online is not recommended for all presenting issues (i.e. suicidal thoughts/ideation, crisis, partner/family violence, severe mental illness), therefore potential clients will be screened to ensure the appropriateness of therapeutic services offered.
Life Solutions Counseling and Family Therapy, PLLC customizes therapeutic services to meet the individual, couple, family, and/or groups goals. Clients can expect a welcoming environment in an effort to make real life changes. With an emphasis on systemic therapy, we take a nonpathological approach to looking at human relationships and challenges. This benefits the client (s) as they learn how to interact and change problems between themselves and others. Congratulations! Problems are not in you, they are between you and another person(s).
Online is not recommended for all presenting issues (i.e. suicidal thoughts/ideation, crisis, partner/family violence, severe mental illness), therefore potential clients will be screened to ensure the appropriateness of therapeutic services offered.
Life Solutions Counseling and Family Therapy, PLLC customizes therapeutic services to meet the individual, couple, family, and/or groups goals. Clients can expect a welcoming environment in an effort to make real life changes. With an emphasis on systemic therapy, we take a nonpathological approach to looking at human relationships and challenges. This benefits the client (s) as they learn how to interact and change problems between themselves and others. Congratulations! Problems are not in you, they are between you and another person(s).
(214) 571-7846 View (214) 571-7846

See more therapy options for Dallas

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.