Chronic Pain Therapists in Hightstown, NJ

Photo of Nancy A. Valentino MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hightstown, NJ
Nancy A. Valentino MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hightstown, NJ 08520
In Person Therapy Available. I have over twenty years of experience working with individuals, couples, families and groups. Whether issues relate to life stressors, relationships, substance abuse, psychiatric illness, or a combination of these difficulties, I can help clients to identify their problems and explore solutions. My goal is to empower my clients through education, to help them learn and utilize skills to assess their problems, identify strategies that have and have not worked in the past, and implement change in both thoughts and actions. Clients carry these skills far beyond the therapeutic relationship.
In Person Therapy Available. I have over twenty years of experience working with individuals, couples, families and groups. Whether issues relate to life stressors, relationships, substance abuse, psychiatric illness, or a combination of these difficulties, I can help clients to identify their problems and explore solutions. My goal is to empower my clients through education, to help them learn and utilize skills to assess their problems, identify strategies that have and have not worked in the past, and implement change in both thoughts and actions. Clients carry these skills far beyond the therapeutic relationship.
(908) 301-6079 View (908) 301-6079
Photo of Lynne Zelch Butan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hightstown, NJ
Lynne Zelch Butan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hightstown, NJ 08520
I am a Columbia University trained licensed social worker who has been in private practice since 2007. Throughout my development and training as a clinician, my priority has been to maintain a fresh and open empathic approach to helping individuals and couples. My ideal goal is to establish rapport and connect with others, so that they can ultimately help themselves. I value a safe, comfortable meeting space where people can relax and be themselves, so that they can feel better as soon as possible.
I am a Columbia University trained licensed social worker who has been in private practice since 2007. Throughout my development and training as a clinician, my priority has been to maintain a fresh and open empathic approach to helping individuals and couples. My ideal goal is to establish rapport and connect with others, so that they can ultimately help themselves. I value a safe, comfortable meeting space where people can relax and be themselves, so that they can feel better as soon as possible.
(609) 375-8207 View (609) 375-8207

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Aliza Auslander | Equine-Assisted And Somatic Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hightstown, NJ
Aliza Auslander | Equine-Assisted And Somatic Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
As a trauma-focused therapist, I often work with people who feel “stuck.” Stuck in old patterns, trapped in grief, lost in pain from the past, or just stagnating. With advanced training in Natural Lifemanship Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (NL EAP) and full certification as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, I can help you find your way towards holistic healing. Therapy with horses is profoundly transformative, helpful for a wide range of difficulties, from life adjustments and anxiety to PTSD and severe depression. If you've hit a wall with office-based talk therapy, my four-leggeds and I are here to help you reach your goals!
As a trauma-focused therapist, I often work with people who feel “stuck.” Stuck in old patterns, trapped in grief, lost in pain from the past, or just stagnating. With advanced training in Natural Lifemanship Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (NL EAP) and full certification as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, I can help you find your way towards holistic healing. Therapy with horses is profoundly transformative, helpful for a wide range of difficulties, from life adjustments and anxiety to PTSD and severe depression. If you've hit a wall with office-based talk therapy, my four-leggeds and I are here to help you reach your goals!
(609) 293-4366 View (609) 293-4366
Photo of Courtney Gable, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hightstown, NJ
Courtney Gable
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
My inclusive work focuses on: Helping people to feel regulated and empowered, and to feel seen, safe, and valued for who they are in our process together; those struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety; chronic pain, grief and loss, phobias, racing thoughts, crossroads and upheaval; as well as Body Image, with a specific focus on Body Neutrality and Health At Every Size (HAES) – all with mindfulness, compassion, and acceptance.
My inclusive work focuses on: Helping people to feel regulated and empowered, and to feel seen, safe, and valued for who they are in our process together; those struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety; chronic pain, grief and loss, phobias, racing thoughts, crossroads and upheaval; as well as Body Image, with a specific focus on Body Neutrality and Health At Every Size (HAES) – all with mindfulness, compassion, and acceptance.
(215) 607-6969 View (215) 607-6969
Photo of Barbara Cole-Kiernan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hightstown, NJ
Barbara Cole-Kiernan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Are you in transition? Feeling stuck in your life or relationship? Have your usual coping strategies become ineffective, leaving you feeling anxious, fearful, depressed or angry? Do you feel that there must be more to life than what you are presently experiencing? Are you experiencing emotional upheaval that is impacting the quality of your life as a result of critical or chronic illness ?
Are you in transition? Feeling stuck in your life or relationship? Have your usual coping strategies become ineffective, leaving you feeling anxious, fearful, depressed or angry? Do you feel that there must be more to life than what you are presently experiencing? Are you experiencing emotional upheaval that is impacting the quality of your life as a result of critical or chronic illness ?
(609) 643-4498 View (609) 643-4498
Photo of Liz Marshall: Emdr Intensives, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hightstown, NJ
Liz Marshall: Emdr Intensives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
Waitlist for new clients
Prior experience has been supporting individuals navigating sexual trauma, DV/IPV, clergy/spiritual abuse, purity culture deconstruction, chronic pain, medical trauma, LGBTQIA+ matters, vicarious trauma, and grief.
My approach as a therapist is relational & warm & I deeply honor the intentional time set aside by each of my clients to engage in the courageous work of change. As a trauma-informed provider, I work to co-create a compassionate and non-judgmental space & value offering clients transparency, power, & choice in our work together. Clients have shared that our work together has empowered them to feel safer in their bodies & emotions, set healthier boundaries & advocate for their needs, understand origins of beliefs & behaviors, create space to discover & practice new responses, & ultimately reclaim agency in their voice & life story.
Prior experience has been supporting individuals navigating sexual trauma, DV/IPV, clergy/spiritual abuse, purity culture deconstruction, chronic pain, medical trauma, LGBTQIA+ matters, vicarious trauma, and grief.
My approach as a therapist is relational & warm & I deeply honor the intentional time set aside by each of my clients to engage in the courageous work of change. As a trauma-informed provider, I work to co-create a compassionate and non-judgmental space & value offering clients transparency, power, & choice in our work together. Clients have shared that our work together has empowered them to feel safer in their bodies & emotions, set healthier boundaries & advocate for their needs, understand origins of beliefs & behaviors, create space to discover & practice new responses, & ultimately reclaim agency in their voice & life story.
(732) 641-6814 View (732) 641-6814
Photo of Josephine S Minardo, Psychologist in Hightstown, NJ
Josephine S Minardo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton Square, NJ 08690  (Online Only)
diabetes, chronic pain, MS, dementia, etc.
Understanding that psychotherapy is such a personal matter, I feel the best approach is one that is very patient centered. That means I tailor therapy to meet the individual needs of each client. I believe in working together collaboratively to set achievable therapy goals toward the desired outcome of therapy, so you can experience greater happiness, stability and a more meaningful life. I have experience in multiple treatment modalities & utilize an integrative approach so that I can apply what will be most effective and best suited to you. Most clients find this approach helpful and sensitive to their needs. I know you will too.
diabetes, chronic pain, MS, dementia, etc.
Understanding that psychotherapy is such a personal matter, I feel the best approach is one that is very patient centered. That means I tailor therapy to meet the individual needs of each client. I believe in working together collaboratively to set achievable therapy goals toward the desired outcome of therapy, so you can experience greater happiness, stability and a more meaningful life. I have experience in multiple treatment modalities & utilize an integrative approach so that I can apply what will be most effective and best suited to you. Most clients find this approach helpful and sensitive to their needs. I know you will too.
(609) 201-1290 View (609) 201-1290
Photo of Wendy Miriam Lafollette Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hightstown, NJ
Wendy Miriam Lafollette Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, PsyAnal
Verified Verified
West Windsor, NJ 08550
Do you have relational conflicts? I help individuals, couples, and families to improve communications. In life we face challenging times: Loss, divorce, transitions and disappointments. Chronic pain, illness, grief and the loss of a loved one often compel individuals to seek therapy. I also specialize in adolescents and college students assisting them with growth and independence. Many issues occur, such as sexual identity, friendship conflicts, drugs and alcohol as well as academic challenges. Building trust in a safe place, may help you transform and grow. Therapy allows a new awareness of life and love can occur!
Do you have relational conflicts? I help individuals, couples, and families to improve communications. In life we face challenging times: Loss, divorce, transitions and disappointments. Chronic pain, illness, grief and the loss of a loved one often compel individuals to seek therapy. I also specialize in adolescents and college students assisting them with growth and independence. Many issues occur, such as sexual identity, friendship conflicts, drugs and alcohol as well as academic challenges. Building trust in a safe place, may help you transform and grow. Therapy allows a new awareness of life and love can occur!
(609) 964-4952 View (609) 964-4952
Photo of The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hightstown, NJ
The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
We specialize in treating depression and anxiety; addiction; issues with sexuality; chronic health issues and pain; familial, romantic, and other interpersonal relationships; and intersectionally aware, trauma-informed care for marginalized people— with special attention given to individuals belonging to the BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and survivor communities.
The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing prioritizes holistic healing and walking with you to grow your best self: mind, body and soul. Our clinicians work on a wide range of issues with a wide range of therapeutic techniques, self-care tools and clinical styles. We offer traditional and non-traditional outpatient services for individuals, couples, and families of all forms and fashions including office and nature sessions, walking sessions, video, text and telephone. We believe in affirming & celebrating all people for who you truly are.
We specialize in treating depression and anxiety; addiction; issues with sexuality; chronic health issues and pain; familial, romantic, and other interpersonal relationships; and intersectionally aware, trauma-informed care for marginalized people— with special attention given to individuals belonging to the BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and survivor communities.
The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing prioritizes holistic healing and walking with you to grow your best self: mind, body and soul. Our clinicians work on a wide range of issues with a wide range of therapeutic techniques, self-care tools and clinical styles. We offer traditional and non-traditional outpatient services for individuals, couples, and families of all forms and fashions including office and nature sessions, walking sessions, video, text and telephone. We believe in affirming & celebrating all people for who you truly are.
(609) 745-0676 View (609) 745-0676
Photo of Paul M Lehrer, Psychologist in Hightstown, NJ
Paul M Lehrer
Psychologist, PhD, BCB
Verified Verified
Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852
You may have had feelings of pain, jitteriness, anxiety, sleep or appetite problems, heart pounding, breathng problems, or depressed mood.
Are you an adult with symptoms of anxiety, performance issues, depression, stress-related physical problems, and/or obsessive compulsive symptoms? These all involve a complicated intertwining of cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and physiological components. Are you looking for someone who can find ways to systematically approach each of these, consistent with your personality, upbringing, environment, and life's circumstances? Are you looking to learn something from each session, and feel confident your problems are better understood and have improved?
You may have had feelings of pain, jitteriness, anxiety, sleep or appetite problems, heart pounding, breathng problems, or depressed mood.
Are you an adult with symptoms of anxiety, performance issues, depression, stress-related physical problems, and/or obsessive compulsive symptoms? These all involve a complicated intertwining of cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and physiological components. Are you looking for someone who can find ways to systematically approach each of these, consistent with your personality, upbringing, environment, and life's circumstances? Are you looking to learn something from each session, and feel confident your problems are better understood and have improved?
(848) 266-6802 View (848) 266-6802
Photo of Robin Axel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hightstown, NJ
Robin Axel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roosevelt, NJ 08555  (Online Only)
Loss, Grief, Illness are explored.
You are struggling with life crisis issues, grief, relationship conflict or divorce and are looking for a compassionate and non-judgmental clinician. In my twenty-five years experience with individuals and couples I maintain a solution oriented, psychotherapeutic setting in which insights are formed and behaviors changed. You will find me down to earth and easy to talk with and in my sensitive approach there is the wisdom and the strength to help you face your life's challenges.
Loss, Grief, Illness are explored.
You are struggling with life crisis issues, grief, relationship conflict or divorce and are looking for a compassionate and non-judgmental clinician. In my twenty-five years experience with individuals and couples I maintain a solution oriented, psychotherapeutic setting in which insights are formed and behaviors changed. You will find me down to earth and easy to talk with and in my sensitive approach there is the wisdom and the strength to help you face your life's challenges.
(609) 521-4217 View (609) 521-4217
Photo of Christina D Reeg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hightstown, NJ
Christina D Reeg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton Square, NJ 08690
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals ages 12 and up coping with depression and bipolar disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, chronic illness and pain, grief and loss, substance abuse and anger management.
Are you or your teen experiencing anxiety or depression? Are you finding it more difficult to cope with daily stress related to work, school, parenting, relationships or major life transitions? Looking for a professional yet casual environment to explore your thoughts and feelings while walking away with specific tools to manage your symptoms? I can help. Together we will work collaboratively to identify problem areas and obstacles and from there define practical steps to achieve your goals.
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals ages 12 and up coping with depression and bipolar disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, chronic illness and pain, grief and loss, substance abuse and anger management.
Are you or your teen experiencing anxiety or depression? Are you finding it more difficult to cope with daily stress related to work, school, parenting, relationships or major life transitions? Looking for a professional yet casual environment to explore your thoughts and feelings while walking away with specific tools to manage your symptoms? I can help. Together we will work collaboratively to identify problem areas and obstacles and from there define practical steps to achieve your goals.
(732) 398-1718 View (732) 398-1718
Photo of Amanda Cusa, Licensed Social Worker in Hightstown, NJ
Amanda Cusa
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
My specialties include working with adolescents and adult that are experiencing one of the following: life transitions that are difficult to cope with, trauma, chronic illness/pain, anxiety, depression, existential and stage-of-life issues, and stress that has been difficult to manage on your own.
I believe strongly that we all have the capacity for positive change, no matter where we start out. Therapy should provide a warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental space in which clients can explore new goals, solutions, and ways of being. I seek to empower clients by fostering greater awareness and understanding of their thoughts, behaviors, environments, and interpersonal patterns. My approach is tailored to each person and their needs, but often incorporates concepts from Cognitive-Behavioral, Interpersonal, and Person-Centered therapies, as well as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques.
My specialties include working with adolescents and adult that are experiencing one of the following: life transitions that are difficult to cope with, trauma, chronic illness/pain, anxiety, depression, existential and stage-of-life issues, and stress that has been difficult to manage on your own.
I believe strongly that we all have the capacity for positive change, no matter where we start out. Therapy should provide a warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental space in which clients can explore new goals, solutions, and ways of being. I seek to empower clients by fostering greater awareness and understanding of their thoughts, behaviors, environments, and interpersonal patterns. My approach is tailored to each person and their needs, but often incorporates concepts from Cognitive-Behavioral, Interpersonal, and Person-Centered therapies, as well as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques.
(609) 312-5395 View (609) 312-5395
Photo of Stephanie A Mansfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hightstown, NJ
Stephanie A Mansfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08619
Additionally, I have received training from The Beck Institute in helping people of all ages in dealing with chronic illness through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Every person is unique. I pride myself in meeting you where you are currently at, find what works best for you, and creating a plan together that will best improve YOUR mental health. I received my Master of Social Work with a concentration in clinical work with children and families from Monmouth University. I have worked in the mental health field for well over a decade and have been a practicing therapist just shy of 10 years.
Additionally, I have received training from The Beck Institute in helping people of all ages in dealing with chronic illness through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Every person is unique. I pride myself in meeting you where you are currently at, find what works best for you, and creating a plan together that will best improve YOUR mental health. I received my Master of Social Work with a concentration in clinical work with children and families from Monmouth University. I have worked in the mental health field for well over a decade and have been a practicing therapist just shy of 10 years.
(609) 293-5772 View (609) 293-5772
Photo of Sandra R Yarock, Psychologist in Hightstown, NJ
Sandra R Yarock
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
starting/ending college/careers, transgender/sexuality, marriage/divorce, grief/loss, chronic pain/illness, eating issues).
I believe that my work for 35+ years with so many different people has helped me to continuously evolve into a more fluid and compassionate healer. I use my mind, heart, intuition and experience to help decrease the emotional distress in those seeking my help. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or emotional overwhelm, I will do my best to help you to grow into the best version of yourself. I continue to learn the most effective ways to help those w grief , trauma, gender dysphoria, etc. I work closely with people to create a therapeutic environment that fosters growth, safety, patience and mutual trust.
starting/ending college/careers, transgender/sexuality, marriage/divorce, grief/loss, chronic pain/illness, eating issues).
I believe that my work for 35+ years with so many different people has helped me to continuously evolve into a more fluid and compassionate healer. I use my mind, heart, intuition and experience to help decrease the emotional distress in those seeking my help. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or emotional overwhelm, I will do my best to help you to grow into the best version of yourself. I continue to learn the most effective ways to help those w grief , trauma, gender dysphoria, etc. I work closely with people to create a therapeutic environment that fosters growth, safety, patience and mutual trust.
(609) 778-4728 View (609) 778-4728
Photo of Psychotherapy; Addiction; Psychological Counseling, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Hightstown, NJ
Psychotherapy; Addiction; Psychological Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC, LPC, CRS, FAPA
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Practices that include modalities with Eclectic theoretical orientation. Counseling everyone regardless of background purely on presenting health issues. Using integrative approach to whole person restoration of functioning. Mindfulness, Cognitive,Logotherapy, Motivational Interviewing. Transfigurative Hypnotherapy is strictly for pain management, sleep disorder, anxiety and relaxation. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). We proudly embrace the ethical values of the APA, AACC, ACA and NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors) that respectively advice counselor to practice within their competencies (training).
Practices that include modalities with Eclectic theoretical orientation. Counseling everyone regardless of background purely on presenting health issues. Using integrative approach to whole person restoration of functioning. Mindfulness, Cognitive,Logotherapy, Motivational Interviewing. Transfigurative Hypnotherapy is strictly for pain management, sleep disorder, anxiety and relaxation. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). We proudly embrace the ethical values of the APA, AACC, ACA and NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors) that respectively advice counselor to practice within their competencies (training).
(732) 983-5313 View (732) 983-5313
Photo of Namhee Stokivs, Psychologist in Hightstown, NJ
Namhee Stokivs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Joy of life is always accompanied by pain, and there are times that you feel beaten and defeated. Psychological symptoms can surface and compromise your happiness and functioning during these struggles. Therapy can help you to stay on the right track or find the right directions to minimize unnecessary sufferings.
Joy of life is always accompanied by pain, and there are times that you feel beaten and defeated. Psychological symptoms can surface and compromise your happiness and functioning during these struggles. Therapy can help you to stay on the right track or find the right directions to minimize unnecessary sufferings.
(732) 856-8909 View (732) 856-8909
Photo of Dr. Dana Lebo, Psychologist in Hightstown, NJ
Dr. Dana Lebo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08543  (Online Only)
Are you looking for support to master life's challenges, break free of ineffective patterns of behavior & improve your mental health & well-being? With over two decades of experience, I am passionate about helping individuals enhance their performance & better manage anxiety, life transitions, trauma, depression, pain, sleep, and more. My approach to therapy is grounded in mind-body, non-pharmacological techniques for dealing with the complexities & stress of busy home, school, work, sports & family lives. Additionally, I am credentialed to practice teletherapy in 36 states listed on the PsyPact Map at psypact.org under Quick Links.
Are you looking for support to master life's challenges, break free of ineffective patterns of behavior & improve your mental health & well-being? With over two decades of experience, I am passionate about helping individuals enhance their performance & better manage anxiety, life transitions, trauma, depression, pain, sleep, and more. My approach to therapy is grounded in mind-body, non-pharmacological techniques for dealing with the complexities & stress of busy home, school, work, sports & family lives. Additionally, I am credentialed to practice teletherapy in 36 states listed on the PsyPact Map at psypact.org under Quick Links.
(919) 276-8758 View (919) 276-8758
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Boswell, Psychologist in Hightstown, NJ
Dr. Rebecca Boswell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08542  (Online Only)
People often come to a therapist because they want to talk about being anxious, being lonely, feeling depressed, having difficulty in relationships, feeling stressed and burned out, or having a hard time taking care of themselves and others. I aim to help people to reduce symptoms (e.g., anxiety, pain) and, more generally, to engage in personal growth and to foster a more connected, meaningful life by focusing on mind and body wellness. I will work with you to help you cope more effectively; in doing so, I focus on your strengths and potential.
People often come to a therapist because they want to talk about being anxious, being lonely, feeling depressed, having difficulty in relationships, feeling stressed and burned out, or having a hard time taking care of themselves and others. I aim to help people to reduce symptoms (e.g., anxiety, pain) and, more generally, to engage in personal growth and to foster a more connected, meaningful life by focusing on mind and body wellness. I will work with you to help you cope more effectively; in doing so, I focus on your strengths and potential.
(609) 236-7293 View (609) 236-7293
Photo of Christine Marie Agnese-Etzrodt, Psychologist in Hightstown, NJ
Christine Marie Agnese-Etzrodt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08542
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, eating disorders, body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness and trauma.
Welcome to finding peace and happiness in your life again. Sometimes it can feel like peace and happiness are out of your grasp, but I am here to remind you that healing is possible for you. We all have times in our lives when we are struggling and need to know that help and support is there for us. Together you and I can find that path for you. I will help you to feel good about yourself and your life. Here you will find a place where you are always accepted.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, eating disorders, body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness and trauma.
Welcome to finding peace and happiness in your life again. Sometimes it can feel like peace and happiness are out of your grasp, but I am here to remind you that healing is possible for you. We all have times in our lives when we are struggling and need to know that help and support is there for us. Together you and I can find that path for you. I will help you to feel good about yourself and your life. Here you will find a place where you are always accepted.
(267) 433-2539 View (267) 433-2539

See more therapy options for Hightstown

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.