Photo of Andrea Layne, Mental Health Counselor in Iowa
Andrea Layne
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Accepting new clients Monday - Friday, mostly morning with some afternoons ——- You have inherent worth as you are, right now, in this moment. Read that again. You do not have to be perfect in order to be loved or to love yourself. I can help you grow in your care and acceptance of yourself. My role is to empower you to live an authentic, meaningful life … Pain can't be eliminated but it can be acknowledged, seen. I provide a compassionate space to explore your needs, struggles, and relationships.
Accepting new clients Monday - Friday, mostly morning with some afternoons ——- You have inherent worth as you are, right now, in this moment. Read that again. You do not have to be perfect in order to be loved or to love yourself. I can help you grow in your care and acceptance of yourself. My role is to empower you to live an authentic, meaningful life … Pain can't be eliminated but it can be acknowledged, seen. I provide a compassionate space to explore your needs, struggles, and relationships.
(319) 220-5641 View (319) 220-5641
Photo of Aryn Lemon, Counselor in Iowa
Aryn Lemon
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nevada, IA 50201
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in the treatment of trauma and PTSD, anger management and chronic pain.
Welcome! In therapy, I believe it is essential for you to feel seen, heard, and valued for who you are. In this sacred space, you have the freedom to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, fostering self-acceptance and empowering you to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Central to my practice is the unwavering belief in the resiliency and potential within each individual. Through a foundation of Person-Centered Therapy, I create an environment characterized by empathy, trust, and unconditional positive regard. I recognize that choosing to go to therapy is sometimes scary, so thank you for taking those first steps.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma and PTSD, anger management and chronic pain.
Welcome! In therapy, I believe it is essential for you to feel seen, heard, and valued for who you are. In this sacred space, you have the freedom to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, fostering self-acceptance and empowering you to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Central to my practice is the unwavering belief in the resiliency and potential within each individual. Through a foundation of Person-Centered Therapy, I create an environment characterized by empathy, trust, and unconditional positive regard. I recognize that choosing to go to therapy is sometimes scary, so thank you for taking those first steps.
(515) 854-0361 View (515) 854-0361
Photo of Karen Haas Misseldine, Counselor in Iowa
Karen Haas Misseldine
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decorah, IA 52101
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss and can help people with chronic pain and illnesses.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Registered Art Therapist. I am certified in EMDR and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy. I have been helping people of all ages navigate mental health and life challenges for over 25 years. Together, we can tailor your therapy to meet your individual needs so you can move beyond whatever is holding you back and begin to experience the relief and change you are seeking. My approach is non-judgmental, compassionate and collaborative.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss and can help people with chronic pain and illnesses.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Registered Art Therapist. I am certified in EMDR and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy. I have been helping people of all ages navigate mental health and life challenges for over 25 years. Together, we can tailor your therapy to meet your individual needs so you can move beyond whatever is holding you back and begin to experience the relief and change you are seeking. My approach is non-judgmental, compassionate and collaborative.
(563) 202-2189 View (563) 202-2189
Photo of Dawn Marie Richard, Counselor in Iowa
Dawn Marie Richard
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with people who struggle with substance use, ASD, ID, maternal health, families, severe and persistent mental illness, PTSD, trauma and abuse, anxiety, mood disorders, self-harm, anger, and chronic illness.
I take trust very seriously. I have always been the person others can confide in and know there is not a risk of judgment. I am proud of that and will understand the gravity of your vulnerability and fear of trust. I'm here to listen to your story, and feel it is important that my clients get an education on the therapeutic process, skill building, training, and accountability.
I have worked with people who struggle with substance use, ASD, ID, maternal health, families, severe and persistent mental illness, PTSD, trauma and abuse, anxiety, mood disorders, self-harm, anger, and chronic illness.
I take trust very seriously. I have always been the person others can confide in and know there is not a risk of judgment. I am proud of that and will understand the gravity of your vulnerability and fear of trust. I'm here to listen to your story, and feel it is important that my clients get an education on the therapeutic process, skill building, training, and accountability.
(319) 220-5286 View (319) 220-5286
Photo of Lindsey Olsen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Lindsey Olsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Some common concerns are, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, abuse (emotional, sexual, physical), attachment, family conflict, communication issues, somatic issues (pain, seizures, loss of vision), grief and loss, addictions and compulsions, trauma and PTSD, and changes and adjustments in life.
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to meet their desired goals. I have an interest in working with clients who have experienced trauma and/or PTSD. I am a certified therapist in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a type of therapy that enables people to heal from symptoms and/or emotional distress that can result from disturbing life experiences. I also work with clients experiencing somatic (body) issues from traumatic experiences. Please do not hesitate to ask questions about specific issues you would like to address.
Some common concerns are, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, abuse (emotional, sexual, physical), attachment, family conflict, communication issues, somatic issues (pain, seizures, loss of vision), grief and loss, addictions and compulsions, trauma and PTSD, and changes and adjustments in life.
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to meet their desired goals. I have an interest in working with clients who have experienced trauma and/or PTSD. I am a certified therapist in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a type of therapy that enables people to heal from symptoms and/or emotional distress that can result from disturbing life experiences. I also work with clients experiencing somatic (body) issues from traumatic experiences. Please do not hesitate to ask questions about specific issues you would like to address.
(515) 505-1833 View (515) 505-1833
Photo of Bud Perschek, Counselor in Iowa
Bud Perschek
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
While living in Oregon I enjoyed organizing and managing a very successful behavioral chronic pain management program.
With over 40 years’ experience in the mental health field, I bring a lot of maturity and common sense to your therapy experience. I have worked in various aspects in the mental health field throughout my career that include individual, group, couples counseling, crisis intervention and working with the more persistent and long term mental ill population. My experience also includes individual and program supervision of adult, and child and family therapists.
While living in Oregon I enjoyed organizing and managing a very successful behavioral chronic pain management program.
With over 40 years’ experience in the mental health field, I bring a lot of maturity and common sense to your therapy experience. I have worked in various aspects in the mental health field throughout my career that include individual, group, couples counseling, crisis intervention and working with the more persistent and long term mental ill population. My experience also includes individual and program supervision of adult, and child and family therapists.
(319) 820-4206 View (319) 820-4206
Photo of Lauren Welter, Psychologist in Iowa
Lauren Welter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Monticello, IA 52310
I offer counseling/psychotherapy for a range of mental health problems including trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating and body image disorders, relational concerns, life transitions, and have expertise helping people to manage chronic health conditions, including chronic pain, diabetes, overeating and obesity, addiction, smoking cessation, and coping with terminal diagnoses.
I am passionate about helping others reach their true potential and I am incredibly excited to have the opportunity to work with you to overcome mental health problems, trauma, grief and loss, relationship problems and other life struggles and transitions. Individuals from all backgrounds are welcome - care is confidential and non-judgmental. My goal is to help you become the best possible version of yourself.
I offer counseling/psychotherapy for a range of mental health problems including trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating and body image disorders, relational concerns, life transitions, and have expertise helping people to manage chronic health conditions, including chronic pain, diabetes, overeating and obesity, addiction, smoking cessation, and coping with terminal diagnoses.
I am passionate about helping others reach their true potential and I am incredibly excited to have the opportunity to work with you to overcome mental health problems, trauma, grief and loss, relationship problems and other life struggles and transitions. Individuals from all backgrounds are welcome - care is confidential and non-judgmental. My goal is to help you become the best possible version of yourself.
(319) 250-2240 View (319) 250-2240
Photo of Alyssa Anne Drury, Counselor in Iowa
Alyssa Anne Drury
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Areas I specialize include anxiety, depression, childhood sexual abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, childhood trauma, cutting and self-harm, grief and loss, domestic violence, Emotional Intensity Disorder, addiction, couples counseling, stress management, adolescents, eating disorders, EAP services, and chronic mental illness.
All of us have some hard and difficult times in life and we need some help. Although this can be humbling, it usually pays off in the end. I am a very flexible and laid back person and am here to help you with whatever it is you are struggling with. There will be no judgment and we will work on what only you want to work on. I believe there is no magic answer to everything and not everything works for everybody, so it is you and I trying to figure out what works best for you.
Areas I specialize include anxiety, depression, childhood sexual abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, childhood trauma, cutting and self-harm, grief and loss, domestic violence, Emotional Intensity Disorder, addiction, couples counseling, stress management, adolescents, eating disorders, EAP services, and chronic mental illness.
All of us have some hard and difficult times in life and we need some help. Although this can be humbling, it usually pays off in the end. I am a very flexible and laid back person and am here to help you with whatever it is you are struggling with. There will be no judgment and we will work on what only you want to work on. I believe there is no magic answer to everything and not everything works for everybody, so it is you and I trying to figure out what works best for you.
(319) 820-0382 View (319) 820-0382
Photo of Janet Rieckhoff, Counselor in Iowa
Janet Rieckhoff
Counselor, LMHC, MA, M DIV
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50314
Taking new clients. I offer telehealth and in person sessions. Feeling stuck in same unhealthy situations and relationships which produce anxiety, anger, depression and broken trust? We can explore communication patterns, attachment styles, and past traumas affecting relationships. I provide a nonjudgmental environment to work on your issues. I am experienced in areas of anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, spirituality, and family issues of parenting, caretaking, LGBTQA issues, adoption, infertility. First I listen to your life situation, then give homework, and then build on your strengths so you can reach your life goals.
Taking new clients. I offer telehealth and in person sessions. Feeling stuck in same unhealthy situations and relationships which produce anxiety, anger, depression and broken trust? We can explore communication patterns, attachment styles, and past traumas affecting relationships. I provide a nonjudgmental environment to work on your issues. I am experienced in areas of anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, spirituality, and family issues of parenting, caretaking, LGBTQA issues, adoption, infertility. First I listen to your life situation, then give homework, and then build on your strengths so you can reach your life goals.
(515) 517-2953 View (515) 517-2953
Photo of Lois Potthoff, Counselor in Iowa
Lois Potthoff
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Audubon, IA 50025
I strive to help others heal and become empowered while rediscovering their true sense of self and reconnect with their life purpose. Relationship is the foundation to healing and I use a client centered and attuned approach while integrating an individualized treatment plan to meet your goals. My goal is to meet you or your child where they are and be your guide to healing. I have over 30 years of experience working in the field of mental illness and developmental disorders.
I strive to help others heal and become empowered while rediscovering their true sense of self and reconnect with their life purpose. Relationship is the foundation to healing and I use a client centered and attuned approach while integrating an individualized treatment plan to meet your goals. My goal is to meet you or your child where they are and be your guide to healing. I have over 30 years of experience working in the field of mental illness and developmental disorders.
(712) 350-9905 View (712) 350-9905
Photo of Shauna Huberty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Shauna Huberty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Bondurant, IA 50035  (Online Only)
Along with evidence-based treatment models, I use a brain health approach instead of Mental Health or Mental Illness.
I support adults experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, chronic stress, and relationship challenges. You don't have to face these challenges alone. Our sessions are a collaboration in a safe, non-judgmental space. Your needs shape the clinical approach we will take in treatment. Together, we'll build coping skills, discover your strengths, and foster lasting transformation.
Along with evidence-based treatment models, I use a brain health approach instead of Mental Health or Mental Illness.
I support adults experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, chronic stress, and relationship challenges. You don't have to face these challenges alone. Our sessions are a collaboration in a safe, non-judgmental space. Your needs shape the clinical approach we will take in treatment. Together, we'll build coping skills, discover your strengths, and foster lasting transformation.
(563) 281-5310 View (563) 281-5310
Photo of Dustin Ernberger, Counselor in Iowa
Dustin Ernberger
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
North Liberty, IA 52317
I am proud to be part of the clinical team at Psychiatric Associates! I have been helping adults, adolescents, and children achieve their goals since 1995. I have a master’s degree in community-based counseling from Ball State University. From 1997 on, I have been licensed in my home state of Iowa. Currently, my clinical interests include: anxiety disorders, stress management, mood and affect management difficulties, adjustment difficulties, chronic pain, parenting issues, and children’s behavioral issues.
I am proud to be part of the clinical team at Psychiatric Associates! I have been helping adults, adolescents, and children achieve their goals since 1995. I have a master’s degree in community-based counseling from Ball State University. From 1997 on, I have been licensed in my home state of Iowa. Currently, my clinical interests include: anxiety disorders, stress management, mood and affect management difficulties, adjustment difficulties, chronic pain, parenting issues, and children’s behavioral issues.
(319) 406-3675 View (319) 406-3675
Photo of Angela Andeway, Counselor in Iowa
Angela Andeway
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fairfield, IA 52556
I offer an in depth, diversity affirming approach to psychotherapy. I am passionate about providing clients with meaningful and effective services tailored to each person. My training, experience, and skill-set uniquely qualifies me to work within the intersections of addictions, attachment issues, traumatic experiences, and relationship issues. I engage with clients deeply to allow them to experience life more fully. Many people cover their genuine feelings to protect themselves from pain. I strive to create a safe environment where trust can be developed in the therapeutic relationship so that clients can gradually rely less on their need to protect themselves through self-destructive patterns.
I offer an in depth, diversity affirming approach to psychotherapy. I am passionate about providing clients with meaningful and effective services tailored to each person. My training, experience, and skill-set uniquely qualifies me to work within the intersections of addictions, attachment issues, traumatic experiences, and relationship issues. I engage with clients deeply to allow them to experience life more fully. Many people cover their genuine feelings to protect themselves from pain. I strive to create a safe environment where trust can be developed in the therapeutic relationship so that clients can gradually rely less on their need to protect themselves through self-destructive patterns.
(641) 236-1644 View (641) 236-1644
Photo of Inside Out Counseling & Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Inside Out Counseling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma comes in many forms. Whether it's the death of a loved one, abuse & violence, DHS involvement, a bad break-up, chronic illness, criminal justice involvement, chemical dependency, or loss of parental rights; experiencing trauma can feel very isolating. You might find yourself feeling detached from others or having difficulty with developing authentic connections with people. Maybe you feel lost and uncertain about how to carry on. Or maybe you're finding yourself lashing out at others with little or no reason. Somedays it can feel like nobody understands your pain or how broken you feel.
Trauma comes in many forms. Whether it's the death of a loved one, abuse & violence, DHS involvement, a bad break-up, chronic illness, criminal justice involvement, chemical dependency, or loss of parental rights; experiencing trauma can feel very isolating. You might find yourself feeling detached from others or having difficulty with developing authentic connections with people. Maybe you feel lost and uncertain about how to carry on. Or maybe you're finding yourself lashing out at others with little or no reason. Somedays it can feel like nobody understands your pain or how broken you feel.
(563) 334-7469 View (563) 334-7469
Photo of Mary Nii Munteh, Psychologist in Iowa
Mary Nii Munteh
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50014
I believe that childhood interactions play a huge part in the development of psychological pain, wounds, and hurts. I am sensitive to the process of therapy and work hard to make it a safe and trusting space for you and myself to work together. The here and now interactions in the room are important and I intentionally use them to foster the healing process. Your strengths and goals are important to the way I work because my aim is to free up the energy that has been suppressed by pain so that you can focus on the things that are important to you.
I believe that childhood interactions play a huge part in the development of psychological pain, wounds, and hurts. I am sensitive to the process of therapy and work hard to make it a safe and trusting space for you and myself to work together. The here and now interactions in the room are important and I intentionally use them to foster the healing process. Your strengths and goals are important to the way I work because my aim is to free up the energy that has been suppressed by pain so that you can focus on the things that are important to you.
(515) 585-1248 View (515) 585-1248
Photo of Bob Boezinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Bob Boezinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Bob is a Licensed Independent Social Worker and practices within a growth focused care model. He is a generalist practitioner working with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents to address multiple issues including depression, self-esteem, anxiety, stress, anger management, marital/partner/family relational problems, work and school related issues and life transitions. Bob has experience working with older adults and individuals from diverse backgrounds. He also has an interest and experience working in the area of domestic violence, adjustment issues, dealing with illness and chronic pain, crisis intervention and grief and loss issues throughout the life span Bob is available for consulting.
Bob is a Licensed Independent Social Worker and practices within a growth focused care model. He is a generalist practitioner working with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents to address multiple issues including depression, self-esteem, anxiety, stress, anger management, marital/partner/family relational problems, work and school related issues and life transitions. Bob has experience working with older adults and individuals from diverse backgrounds. He also has an interest and experience working in the area of domestic violence, adjustment issues, dealing with illness and chronic pain, crisis intervention and grief and loss issues throughout the life span Bob is available for consulting.
(319) 774-4199 View (319) 774-4199
Photo of Kimberly Keiser, Counselor in Iowa
Kimberly Keiser
Counselor, MA, LPC-MH, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sioux City, IA 51106
Areas of specialty include: couples counseling, EMDR, IFS, sexual dysfunctions, sexual abuse recovery, LGBTQ+, kink, sexual pain disorders, sexual addiction, sexuality after cancer, and reproductive health and infertility counseling.
Every person is capable of reaching their full potential and living a healthy, balanced and fulfilling life. If you are struggling, psychotherapy provides a broad set of tools to achieve those goals. I offer comprehensive mental health service am committed to providing healing and restoration to for those experiencing personal, relational, sexual, and psychological issues. I am committed to helping individuals through a direct therapeutic approach that is tailored for every client. Couples therapy allows individuals to work through relationship dynamics, conflict, and stressors while improving communication and shared intimacy.
Areas of specialty include: couples counseling, EMDR, IFS, sexual dysfunctions, sexual abuse recovery, LGBTQ+, kink, sexual pain disorders, sexual addiction, sexuality after cancer, and reproductive health and infertility counseling.
Every person is capable of reaching their full potential and living a healthy, balanced and fulfilling life. If you are struggling, psychotherapy provides a broad set of tools to achieve those goals. I offer comprehensive mental health service am committed to providing healing and restoration to for those experiencing personal, relational, sexual, and psychological issues. I am committed to helping individuals through a direct therapeutic approach that is tailored for every client. Couples therapy allows individuals to work through relationship dynamics, conflict, and stressors while improving communication and shared intimacy.
(605) 644-6907 View (605) 644-6907
Photo of Greg Allen Fuqua, Counselor in Iowa
Greg Allen Fuqua
Counselor, MA, T-LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312
Waitlist for new clients
I'm Greg Fuqua, MA, T-LMHC, at Lifeworks (Des Moines). I am not currently taking new clients and referrals. I work with clients 13 yrs old and up. I have an art as therapy program for cancer survivors through Above and Beyond Cancer. I also love working with individuals, couples and families, sexual and gender diversity, neurodiversity, ADHD, chronic disease, cancer, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma and more. I often use Art Therapy, SE, IFS, ACT and I have an existentialist theoretical orientation. I believe in two big humanistic values; our need for connection and our need for expression. I cant wait to meet you!
I'm Greg Fuqua, MA, T-LMHC, at Lifeworks (Des Moines). I am not currently taking new clients and referrals. I work with clients 13 yrs old and up. I have an art as therapy program for cancer survivors through Above and Beyond Cancer. I also love working with individuals, couples and families, sexual and gender diversity, neurodiversity, ADHD, chronic disease, cancer, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma and more. I often use Art Therapy, SE, IFS, ACT and I have an existentialist theoretical orientation. I believe in two big humanistic values; our need for connection and our need for expression. I cant wait to meet you!
(515) 316-2460 View (515) 316-2460
Photo of Jennifer Van Fossoon-Roelfs, Counselor in Iowa
Jennifer Van Fossoon-Roelfs
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
My name is Jennifer Van Fosson-Roelfs, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist working throughout the state of Iowa providing telehealth services. I work with teens, young adults, individuals, and couples. I specialize in areas such as depression, anxiety, LGBTIQQ+, grief and trauma. My approach to therapy is based on the needs of each client when they enter therapy. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, along with Solution and Strength based approaches. These approaches allow me to engage with the client in creating trust and a relationship that supports growth.
My name is Jennifer Van Fosson-Roelfs, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist working throughout the state of Iowa providing telehealth services. I work with teens, young adults, individuals, and couples. I specialize in areas such as depression, anxiety, LGBTIQQ+, grief and trauma. My approach to therapy is based on the needs of each client when they enter therapy. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, along with Solution and Strength based approaches. These approaches allow me to engage with the client in creating trust and a relationship that supports growth.
(319) 820-0115 View (319) 820-0115
Photo of Kelly Dianne Shea, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Kelly Dianne Shea
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sumner, IA 50674  (Online Only)
I love working with folks from teens to elders, people who are at a crossroads in their lives , who need a compassion listener and an insightful, candid person to join them on the path for a while. Sometimes we meet for just a few sessions on that path; sometimes we work together for a longer distance. I cherish the collaborative nature of good therapy; we work together to find solutions and the next step on your path!
I love working with folks from teens to elders, people who are at a crossroads in their lives , who need a compassion listener and an insightful, candid person to join them on the path for a while. Sometimes we meet for just a few sessions on that path; sometimes we work together for a longer distance. I cherish the collaborative nature of good therapy; we work together to find solutions and the next step on your path!
(515) 512-5546 View (515) 512-5546
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.