Chronic Pain Therapists in Kerrville, TX

Photo of Robyn Adkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kerrville, TX
Robyn Adkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Kerrville, TX 78028
I provide in office, in-home or virtual counseling options for older adults and disabled individuals for a variety of needs including: Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Coping with Chronic Illness, Caregiver Stress, Family Concerns, and/or Early Stages of Dementia. Happily serving Kerr, Kendall and Gillespie Counties.
I provide in office, in-home or virtual counseling options for older adults and disabled individuals for a variety of needs including: Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Coping with Chronic Illness, Caregiver Stress, Family Concerns, and/or Early Stages of Dementia. Happily serving Kerr, Kendall and Gillespie Counties.
(830) 365-0802 View (830) 365-0802
Photo of Arthur Gaylian Kirby II, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kerrville, TX
Arthur Gaylian Kirby II
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS MDIV, LPC(S)
Verified Verified
Kerrville, TX 78028
Life experience has taught me to understand mental illness, bipolar mood disorder, other mood disorders, personality disorders, abuse victims of multiple sources, attachment disorders, sick and healthy religion and spiritually.
My job is to help people live happier lives. My office is a continuing education service for all who enter. The goal for me, and hopefully for the person I am working with, is to learn from each other through the change agent of conversation. After 40 years of experience, my belief is that humans never really change until what they have done is working anymore, is broken, and/or gone. Thus change begins with loss, some small and some life ending. At these moments of transition, learning how to let go is the lesson, whether we like it or not. Whatever big change you are going through, positive or negative begins with an ending.
Life experience has taught me to understand mental illness, bipolar mood disorder, other mood disorders, personality disorders, abuse victims of multiple sources, attachment disorders, sick and healthy religion and spiritually.
My job is to help people live happier lives. My office is a continuing education service for all who enter. The goal for me, and hopefully for the person I am working with, is to learn from each other through the change agent of conversation. After 40 years of experience, my belief is that humans never really change until what they have done is working anymore, is broken, and/or gone. Thus change begins with loss, some small and some life ending. At these moments of transition, learning how to let go is the lesson, whether we like it or not. Whatever big change you are going through, positive or negative begins with an ending.
(210) 664-4392 View (210) 664-4392
Photo of Caroline Williams, Psychologist in Kerrville, TX
Caroline Williams
Psychologist, PhD, MP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kerrville, TX 78028
I am a clinical psychologist providing psychological diagnosis, evaluation, and brief therapy in Boerne, Texas. Correct diagnosis and assessment can improve your life! You can understand yourself better, boost your academic performance, stimulate work success, deepen your relationships, and even improve your physical health. Brief therapy gives us time to explore treatment recommendations, dissolve resistance to change, target specific problems, or adopt new skills. I also help with emotional challenges of physical illnesses, like diabetes, chronic pain, or autoimmune disorders.
I am a clinical psychologist providing psychological diagnosis, evaluation, and brief therapy in Boerne, Texas. Correct diagnosis and assessment can improve your life! You can understand yourself better, boost your academic performance, stimulate work success, deepen your relationships, and even improve your physical health. Brief therapy gives us time to explore treatment recommendations, dissolve resistance to change, target specific problems, or adopt new skills. I also help with emotional challenges of physical illnesses, like diabetes, chronic pain, or autoimmune disorders.
(830) 271-3792 View (830) 271-3792
Photo of Terry Rauschuber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kerrville, TX
Terry Rauschuber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kerrville, TX 78028
Often we face many challenges in our lives and need an outlet to figure out the road we will take on this next journey. Dealing with depression and anxiety can add to our level of stress. I have successful experience working with adults and older adults dealing with depression and anxiety, grief and loss, stress, divorce, family and care giving issues. With my previous experience working in hospitals and psychiatric hospitals for adults and older adults I bring skills to help you develop coping strategies as you might face these challenges.
Often we face many challenges in our lives and need an outlet to figure out the road we will take on this next journey. Dealing with depression and anxiety can add to our level of stress. I have successful experience working with adults and older adults dealing with depression and anxiety, grief and loss, stress, divorce, family and care giving issues. With my previous experience working in hospitals and psychiatric hospitals for adults and older adults I bring skills to help you develop coping strategies as you might face these challenges.
(830) 321-7837 View (830) 321-7837
Michael Hawkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kerrville, TX 78028
I work best with clients seeking to define and engage with the issues that are hindering their ability to function well, be happy and healthy. I am a direct, but not a directive therapist. I believe that given the strategies and tools to navigate through difficult situations most people are capable of doing what is needed to live life to the fullest. That includes one of my favorite populations, teenagers. I also enjoy treating patients, persons who will likely be managing a psychiatric condition throughout their lifetime with a combination of medical management and psychotherapy.
I work best with clients seeking to define and engage with the issues that are hindering their ability to function well, be happy and healthy. I am a direct, but not a directive therapist. I believe that given the strategies and tools to navigate through difficult situations most people are capable of doing what is needed to live life to the fullest. That includes one of my favorite populations, teenagers. I also enjoy treating patients, persons who will likely be managing a psychiatric condition throughout their lifetime with a combination of medical management and psychotherapy.
(210) 714-1672 View (210) 714-1672
Photo of Randy Adkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kerrville, TX
Randy Adkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Kerrville, TX 78028
I enjoy working with a diverse clientele and offer hour-long early, late (as late as 7pm) appointments for busy people and accept major insurance plans. I am open to working with complicated and difficult situations or those who just need help meeting their personal goals. I love what I do and I love helping clients find what they are looking for. I want to make our sessions enjoyable and something to look forward to. I enjoy working with clients with Asperger's/Autism Spectrum Disorder. I also offer Dialectical Behavior Therapy for highly motivated clients.
I enjoy working with a diverse clientele and offer hour-long early, late (as late as 7pm) appointments for busy people and accept major insurance plans. I am open to working with complicated and difficult situations or those who just need help meeting their personal goals. I love what I do and I love helping clients find what they are looking for. I want to make our sessions enjoyable and something to look forward to. I enjoy working with clients with Asperger's/Autism Spectrum Disorder. I also offer Dialectical Behavior Therapy for highly motivated clients.
(830) 264-2064 View (830) 264-2064
Photo of Patty Hoban, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kerrville, TX
Patty Hoban
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kerrville, TX 78028
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I serve adults with a myriad of different needs. I have experience working with clients who have anxiety disorders, major depression, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum, ADD/ADHD, insomnia, relationship issues, endured trauma, and more. Every person's journey is different, and his or her challenges are unique; therefore, I use a variety of techniques to meet each person's needs. I have received training in several different modalities, such as CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). I specialize in individual counseling for adults.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I serve adults with a myriad of different needs. I have experience working with clients who have anxiety disorders, major depression, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum, ADD/ADHD, insomnia, relationship issues, endured trauma, and more. Every person's journey is different, and his or her challenges are unique; therefore, I use a variety of techniques to meet each person's needs. I have received training in several different modalities, such as CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). I specialize in individual counseling for adults.
(830) 587-5503 View (830) 587-5503
Photo of Christine Elizabeth Chandler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kerrville, TX
Christine Elizabeth Chandler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kerrville, TX 78028  (Online Only)
I understand that clients are experts in their own lives, but sometimes they need help with unwanted thoughts, symptoms, or behaviors. Reaching out for help can be difficult for all kinds of reasons. I want to reassure you with words from Brené Brown “We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to." I want to help you work on becoming the best version of yourself. Loneliness, social anxiety, and just dealing with a constantly changing world can sometimes make anyone feel out of control. I want to help give you back that feeling of being in control of your life.
I understand that clients are experts in their own lives, but sometimes they need help with unwanted thoughts, symptoms, or behaviors. Reaching out for help can be difficult for all kinds of reasons. I want to reassure you with words from Brené Brown “We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to." I want to help you work on becoming the best version of yourself. Loneliness, social anxiety, and just dealing with a constantly changing world can sometimes make anyone feel out of control. I want to help give you back that feeling of being in control of your life.
(254) 237-4683 View (254) 237-4683
Photo of Erin Nicole Ingram, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kerrville, TX
Erin Nicole Ingram
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kerrville, TX 78028
Life can be hard. Whether it is transitioning from one phase of life to another or financial and work stressors there is always something that we have to learn to cope with and it can be very easy to start feeling overwhelmed and stuck. I believe every experience in life has a purpose. Nothing happens by chance. Failure, conflict or ending a relationship isn't meant to break us but to provide valuable lessons for us to learn, grow, gain insight, become stronger and live happier. I can support and guide you in your search for inner strength needed to regain your sense of control, purpose and joy.
Life can be hard. Whether it is transitioning from one phase of life to another or financial and work stressors there is always something that we have to learn to cope with and it can be very easy to start feeling overwhelmed and stuck. I believe every experience in life has a purpose. Nothing happens by chance. Failure, conflict or ending a relationship isn't meant to break us but to provide valuable lessons for us to learn, grow, gain insight, become stronger and live happier. I can support and guide you in your search for inner strength needed to regain your sense of control, purpose and joy.
(214) 753-8311 View (214) 753-8311
Photo of Amy Mertz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kerrville, TX
Amy Mertz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kerrville, TX 78028
Not accepting new clients
I have a special interest in working with clients suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), survivors of sexual trauma, anxiety, codependency/loved ones of those suffering from addiction, life transitions/adjustments as well as teens. My main goal in therapy is to provide hope to my clients. Specifically, hope that despite life’s continual difficult circumstances, joy, contentment and thriving can still be found.
I have a special interest in working with clients suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), survivors of sexual trauma, anxiety, codependency/loved ones of those suffering from addiction, life transitions/adjustments as well as teens. My main goal in therapy is to provide hope to my clients. Specifically, hope that despite life’s continual difficult circumstances, joy, contentment and thriving can still be found.
(830) 219-4163 View (830) 219-4163

Online Therapists

Photo of Conrad Sloat, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kerrville, TX
Conrad Sloat
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78717
As a Relapse Prevention Specialist, I help clients end their struggle, stop their cravings, and recover from the pain of their addictions.
You may be experiencing symptoms that are clearly a signal that it's time for positive change in your life and I am here to help you experience that change and growth in your life. I utilize an integrative approach for counseling and relapse prevention. This includes cognitive-behavioral tools, family systems approach, and hypnotherapy as appropriate. If stress, anxiety and/or depression are all too familiar, I can help. I also work with couples who desire to improve their relationships. Where appropriate I can provide video counseling,
As a Relapse Prevention Specialist, I help clients end their struggle, stop their cravings, and recover from the pain of their addictions.
You may be experiencing symptoms that are clearly a signal that it's time for positive change in your life and I am here to help you experience that change and growth in your life. I utilize an integrative approach for counseling and relapse prevention. This includes cognitive-behavioral tools, family systems approach, and hypnotherapy as appropriate. If stress, anxiety and/or depression are all too familiar, I can help. I also work with couples who desire to improve their relationships. Where appropriate I can provide video counseling,
(512) 643-6216 View (512) 643-6216
Photo of Amanda Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kerrville, TX
Amanda Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, C-SWHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78249  (Online Only)
Drawing from diverse modalities, I specialize in women's issues, trauma/PTSD, chronic illness, codependency, grief, GLBT and gender concerns, couples' dynamics, mood shifts, life transitions, and holistic counseling, integrating EMDR and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy.
Are you a woman juggling life's demands, feeling stuck or underappreciated? Whether you're a mom, caregiver, or professional woman, I'm here to help. I value healing, inner peace, and security. My expertise includes women's issues, trauma, chronic illness, and more. Seeking EMDR, psychedelics, couples therapy, or traditional therapy? I offer individual and group sessions from your own home. I now offer clinical supervision for aspiring therapists too. Let's embark on this healing journey together.
Drawing from diverse modalities, I specialize in women's issues, trauma/PTSD, chronic illness, codependency, grief, GLBT and gender concerns, couples' dynamics, mood shifts, life transitions, and holistic counseling, integrating EMDR and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy.
Are you a woman juggling life's demands, feeling stuck or underappreciated? Whether you're a mom, caregiver, or professional woman, I'm here to help. I value healing, inner peace, and security. My expertise includes women's issues, trauma, chronic illness, and more. Seeking EMDR, psychedelics, couples therapy, or traditional therapy? I offer individual and group sessions from your own home. I now offer clinical supervision for aspiring therapists too. Let's embark on this healing journey together.
(210) 633-8756 View (210) 633-8756
Photo of Heather Velasquez (Hello Light Counseling Pllc), Licensed Professional Counselor in Kerrville, TX
Heather Velasquez (Hello Light Counseling Pllc)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78717  (Online Only)
Hello! I am an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor offering individual counseling for adults. My focus is working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, chronic illness including HIV, and women's health issues and alcohol and/or substance use. I’m passionate about helping you work through past hurts or traumas that might be keeping you from fully engaging in your life and fully connecting with others. Whether you are considering counseling for the first time or are a seasoned counseling client, I would be happy to speak with you to answer any questions you might have.
Hello! I am an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor offering individual counseling for adults. My focus is working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, chronic illness including HIV, and women's health issues and alcohol and/or substance use. I’m passionate about helping you work through past hurts or traumas that might be keeping you from fully engaging in your life and fully connecting with others. Whether you are considering counseling for the first time or are a seasoned counseling client, I would be happy to speak with you to answer any questions you might have.
(512) 402-3044 View (512) 402-3044
Photo of Kara Hartzell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kerrville, TX
Kara Hartzell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
I specialize in grief and loss, chronic pain, depression and anxiety, aging, end-of-life, caregiving issues and trauma.
Have you endured a painful or sudden loss? Are you experiencing tremendous difficulty adjusting to death, illness, or other significant life transition? Do you feel scared- or even convinced- that things will never improve? Have loved ones tried to reach out, but you don't feel like they understand your situation? There's a good chance that you are tired of "being strong" or tired of feeling alone. Likewise, there's a good chance that you need some emotional support during this trying time.
I specialize in grief and loss, chronic pain, depression and anxiety, aging, end-of-life, caregiving issues and trauma.
Have you endured a painful or sudden loss? Are you experiencing tremendous difficulty adjusting to death, illness, or other significant life transition? Do you feel scared- or even convinced- that things will never improve? Have loved ones tried to reach out, but you don't feel like they understand your situation? There's a good chance that you are tired of "being strong" or tired of feeling alone. Likewise, there's a good chance that you need some emotional support during this trying time.
(512) 201-2449 View (512) 201-2449
Photo of Lisa A Guerra, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kerrville, TX
Lisa A Guerra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216  (Online Only)
My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. I can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. Depression, anxiety, and grief are some of the most uncomfortable emotions we can experience in our lives. We may experience these emotions for many reasons: Loved One's Death, Chronic Pain, Divorce, Job Loss and other Life Challenges.
My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. I can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. Depression, anxiety, and grief are some of the most uncomfortable emotions we can experience in our lives. We may experience these emotions for many reasons: Loved One's Death, Chronic Pain, Divorce, Job Loss and other Life Challenges.
(210) 968-0254 View (210) 968-0254
Photo of Stephanie Torres Rojas, Psychologist in Kerrville, TX
Stephanie Torres Rojas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216  (Online Only)
Her focus includes anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, anger management, marital and family conflict, divorce, adjustment disorder, parenting skills, spirituality, coping skills, life transitions, acculturation, LGBTQ, existential concerns, bipolar disorders, racial minorities, chronic pain, and chronic illness.
Telehealth only. Dr. Stephanie Torres is a bilingual (Spanish) licensed psychologist who provides individual, couple, family, and group therapy. Her approach is inclusive, synergetic, and trauma-informed. She strives to create a safe, warm, and non-judgmental environment where everyone is treated with respect, uniqueness, egalitarianism, and anti-racism. She aims to help clients promote personal growth, overcome challenges, transitions, and difficulties in life, and facilitate the emotional and healing process.
Her focus includes anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, anger management, marital and family conflict, divorce, adjustment disorder, parenting skills, spirituality, coping skills, life transitions, acculturation, LGBTQ, existential concerns, bipolar disorders, racial minorities, chronic pain, and chronic illness.
Telehealth only. Dr. Stephanie Torres is a bilingual (Spanish) licensed psychologist who provides individual, couple, family, and group therapy. Her approach is inclusive, synergetic, and trauma-informed. She strives to create a safe, warm, and non-judgmental environment where everyone is treated with respect, uniqueness, egalitarianism, and anti-racism. She aims to help clients promote personal growth, overcome challenges, transitions, and difficulties in life, and facilitate the emotional and healing process.
(210) 934-4597 View (210) 934-4597
Photo of India Gardner, LPC Intern in Kerrville, TX
India Gardner
LPC Intern, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
My specialties include TBIs and concussions, acquired and congenital disabilities, chronic illness and pain, racial identity and affirmation, mood and anxiety concerns and life transitions.
I'm India! Thank you for taking the first step on your therapeutic journey of healing and restoration with me! I'm the Founder and Therapist of Couch Conversations and Consulting, a fully online private practice offering quality mental health telehealth services for clients who prefer virtual sessions or may not be able to meet for in person sessions and are seeking a collaborative, compassionate and empowering therapy experience on the road to healing and restoration from the comfort of their own homes. I aim for my work as a therapist to be living proof of the benefits that therapy can be for one’s overall mental health.
My specialties include TBIs and concussions, acquired and congenital disabilities, chronic illness and pain, racial identity and affirmation, mood and anxiety concerns and life transitions.
I'm India! Thank you for taking the first step on your therapeutic journey of healing and restoration with me! I'm the Founder and Therapist of Couch Conversations and Consulting, a fully online private practice offering quality mental health telehealth services for clients who prefer virtual sessions or may not be able to meet for in person sessions and are seeking a collaborative, compassionate and empowering therapy experience on the road to healing and restoration from the comfort of their own homes. I aim for my work as a therapist to be living proof of the benefits that therapy can be for one’s overall mental health.
(737) 232-4769 View (737) 232-4769
Photo of Andrea B Henderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kerrville, TX
Andrea B Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
The beginning of healing for your anxiety, depression, trauma, or difficult relationship is willingness to seek help. When a problem seems bigger than you, I'd like to help you understand your own story and find your way back to wholeness. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood pain, life transitions, and helping others grow toward healthier relationships. I believe you are the expert in your life, and I want to help you make sense of your past and present so you can have a fulfilling future.
The beginning of healing for your anxiety, depression, trauma, or difficult relationship is willingness to seek help. When a problem seems bigger than you, I'd like to help you understand your own story and find your way back to wholeness. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood pain, life transitions, and helping others grow toward healthier relationships. I believe you are the expert in your life, and I want to help you make sense of your past and present so you can have a fulfilling future.
(512) 812-9596 View (512) 812-9596
Photo of Jessie Tirrell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kerrville, TX
Jessie Tirrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, BAS, TBRI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I've spent 19 years helping adults, families, and children face their anxiety, grow from their pain, and believe in themselves with warmth and no judgment.
Are you feeling stuck and ready to live like you again? Living with anxiety can be crippling. Watching your child struggle with anxiety locked away from your efforts to help is overwhelming. If your anxiety runs the show you know you miss out on friends, family, and unlocking your potential. If your child is struggling they may be having behaviors that you KNOW are not them but you can't seem to get a handle on. Anxious or traumatized kids are often acting out kids and getting them to talk about the real problems can feel impossible. If you're an adult with trauma you may not have learned how to do that either. You can be better.
I've spent 19 years helping adults, families, and children face their anxiety, grow from their pain, and believe in themselves with warmth and no judgment.
Are you feeling stuck and ready to live like you again? Living with anxiety can be crippling. Watching your child struggle with anxiety locked away from your efforts to help is overwhelming. If your anxiety runs the show you know you miss out on friends, family, and unlocking your potential. If your child is struggling they may be having behaviors that you KNOW are not them but you can't seem to get a handle on. Anxious or traumatized kids are often acting out kids and getting them to talk about the real problems can feel impossible. If you're an adult with trauma you may not have learned how to do that either. You can be better.
(682) 327-0469 View (682) 327-0469
Photo of Matt Vitemb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kerrville, TX
Matt Vitemb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Most of my experience has been with people who are still suffering a lot even though they have tried a lot of therapy and medications. I want you to know I recognize the pain of feeling like nothing can help, and respect the wisdom and willingness it takes to keep trying despite everything you have been through. If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, painful or unsatisfying relationships, the impact of trauma, or unhelpful patterns in how you try to cope with overwhelming pain, I want to support you.
Most of my experience has been with people who are still suffering a lot even though they have tried a lot of therapy and medications. I want you to know I recognize the pain of feeling like nothing can help, and respect the wisdom and willingness it takes to keep trying despite everything you have been through. If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, painful or unsatisfying relationships, the impact of trauma, or unhelpful patterns in how you try to cope with overwhelming pain, I want to support you.
(737) 234-8707 View (737) 234-8707

Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Kerrville

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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.