Chronic Pain Psychiatrists in Cuyahoga County, OH

Photo of Yassin Ghanem, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cuyahoga County, OH
Yassin Ghanem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Yassin Ghanem is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with both inpatient and outpatient experience. He completed his undergraduate studies at Cleveland State University and received his graduate degree from Maryville University. He discovered his passion for mental health while working at Lutheran Hospital as a teenager. Along with managing mental health conditions, Yassin’s heart lies with patients who suffer with comorbid conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and other autoimmune/neurological conditions. He has a special interest in integrative medicine and holistic psychiatry.
Yassin Ghanem is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with both inpatient and outpatient experience. He completed his undergraduate studies at Cleveland State University and received his graduate degree from Maryville University. He discovered his passion for mental health while working at Lutheran Hospital as a teenager. Along with managing mental health conditions, Yassin’s heart lies with patients who suffer with comorbid conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and other autoimmune/neurological conditions. He has a special interest in integrative medicine and holistic psychiatry.
(216) 606-8817 View (216) 606-8817
Photo of KC Center for Health and Wellness, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cuyahoga County, OH
KC Center for Health and Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Are you or a loved one suffering from an addiction and/or depression, anxiety or any other mental illness and need help? Do you need a little assistance with losing weight or just need someone who is non judgmental to talk to? Are you currently looking for a psychiatric provider to refill your medication since your previous provider retired or relocated? Are you tired of waiting hours to see your provider? Are you tired of going to several specialist for your mental health, primary care and chronic pain needs? Well look no further! KC Center for Health and Wellness is here waiting for you! Call NOW! Same week availability.
Are you or a loved one suffering from an addiction and/or depression, anxiety or any other mental illness and need help? Do you need a little assistance with losing weight or just need someone who is non judgmental to talk to? Are you currently looking for a psychiatric provider to refill your medication since your previous provider retired or relocated? Are you tired of waiting hours to see your provider? Are you tired of going to several specialist for your mental health, primary care and chronic pain needs? Well look no further! KC Center for Health and Wellness is here waiting for you! Call NOW! Same week availability.
(216) 350-1847 View (216) 350-1847
Photo of Lydia Potoma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cuyahoga County, OH
Lydia Potoma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brook Park, OH 44142  (Online Only)
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, traumatic brain injury, chronic pain (no opioids), weight management, eating disorders, thinking disorders, mood disorders, dual diagnosis, Dementia/Alzheimer's, and behavioral issues.
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 4 years experience as an Inpatient Psych Hospitalist, Outpatient Provider and Nursing Home Consultant. Extensive experience in Inpatient/Outpatient Adult Psychiatry, Psychiatric Emergency Department, Long-Term Care, and Memory Care. Received Master's of Science in Nursing from Case Western Reserve University.
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, traumatic brain injury, chronic pain (no opioids), weight management, eating disorders, thinking disorders, mood disorders, dual diagnosis, Dementia/Alzheimer's, and behavioral issues.
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 4 years experience as an Inpatient Psych Hospitalist, Outpatient Provider and Nursing Home Consultant. Extensive experience in Inpatient/Outpatient Adult Psychiatry, Psychiatric Emergency Department, Long-Term Care, and Memory Care. Received Master's of Science in Nursing from Case Western Reserve University.
(216) 290-2543 x102 View (216) 290-2543 x102
Photo of Michele Norman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cuyahoga County, OH
Michele Norman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
North Olmsted, OH 44070
Michele Norman earned her Master's in Nursing and Masters of Science in Nursing degrees from Case Western Reserve University. Upon graduation, she was board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for 3 years at this point and her clinical practice has been based primarily in outpatient community settings, where she sees patients ranging in age from 6 to 90. Those skills are incorporated in her treatment plans and appointments. Her specializations include PTSD and other trauma related illness, ADHD, depression, anxiety and adjustment/transition issues.
Michele Norman earned her Master's in Nursing and Masters of Science in Nursing degrees from Case Western Reserve University. Upon graduation, she was board certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for 3 years at this point and her clinical practice has been based primarily in outpatient community settings, where she sees patients ranging in age from 6 to 90. Those skills are incorporated in her treatment plans and appointments. Her specializations include PTSD and other trauma related illness, ADHD, depression, anxiety and adjustment/transition issues.
(440) 581-1220 View (440) 581-1220
Photo of Jodie Skillicorn, Psychiatrist in Cuyahoga County, OH
Jodie Skillicorn
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44101  (Online Only)
I integrate conventional psychiatric treatment options of psychotherapy with research-based complementary modalities including mindfulness, breath-work, yoga, qi qong, biofeedback, imagery, EMDR, nutrition, exercise, ecotherapy, and supplements, along with prescriptions, if and only if, absolutely necessary. Conditions treated include depression, anxiety, climate distress, and, trauma, as well as fatigue, pain, and general health issues that often have a stress induced component. For more information about my approach check out my book Healing Depression without Medications: A Psychiatrist's Guide to Balancing Mind, Body, and Soul.
I integrate conventional psychiatric treatment options of psychotherapy with research-based complementary modalities including mindfulness, breath-work, yoga, qi qong, biofeedback, imagery, EMDR, nutrition, exercise, ecotherapy, and supplements, along with prescriptions, if and only if, absolutely necessary. Conditions treated include depression, anxiety, climate distress, and, trauma, as well as fatigue, pain, and general health issues that often have a stress induced component. For more information about my approach check out my book Healing Depression without Medications: A Psychiatrist's Guide to Balancing Mind, Body, and Soul.
(330) 679-8477 View (330) 679-8477
Photo of Care Clinic, Psychiatrist in Cuyahoga County, OH
Care Clinic
Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44101
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
(304) 318-7215 View (304) 318-7215
Photo of Anna Popova, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cuyahoga County, OH
Anna Popova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP/PM
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Anna Popova, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC Anna Popova is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Akron, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ursuline College, is a Licensed Practical Nurse through ATS Institute of Technology, is a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the Ohio Board of Nursing and is ANCC certified as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats children as young as 4 years old, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Anna Popova, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC Anna Popova is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Akron, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ursuline College, is a Licensed Practical Nurse through ATS Institute of Technology, is a Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the Ohio Board of Nursing and is ANCC certified as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats children as young as 4 years old, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
(216) 446-8635 View (216) 446-8635
Photo of Elizabeth Pfalzgraf, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cuyahoga County, OH
Elizabeth Pfalzgraf
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Elizabeth Pfalzgraf earned her bachelor's degree in psychology and both bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from Kent State University. Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, she has experience in outpatient, inpatient, and community mental health care and serves as an educator for undergraduate nursing. She sees ages 6 to 64 and specializes in anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and schizophrenia.
Elizabeth Pfalzgraf earned her bachelor's degree in psychology and both bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from Kent State University. Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, she has experience in outpatient, inpatient, and community mental health care and serves as an educator for undergraduate nursing. She sees ages 6 to 64 and specializes in anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and schizophrenia.
(440) 616-8816 View (440) 616-8816
Photo of The Evolution through Mind, Body, and Spirit, LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cuyahoga County, OH
The Evolution through Mind, Body, and Spirit, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MHA, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
My name is Nicole Berry, and I am a dual Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. If you are currently experiencing anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress, or even an addiction to substances, I am here for you. My experience as a Nurse Practitioner includes, a variety of assessments for proper diagnosing, pharmacological management, group and individual therapies, and much more. With my vast experience, my goal is to assist you in becoming the best you, you can become, holistically.
My name is Nicole Berry, and I am a dual Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. If you are currently experiencing anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress, or even an addiction to substances, I am here for you. My experience as a Nurse Practitioner includes, a variety of assessments for proper diagnosing, pharmacological management, group and individual therapies, and much more. With my vast experience, my goal is to assist you in becoming the best you, you can become, holistically.
(440) 577-5984 View (440) 577-5984
Leah Stallworth
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131
Leah Stallworth is a Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2002. She attended Indiana Wesleyan University for undergraduate and graduate education. Leah's goal is to meet and accept each patient where they are mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, and work in conjunction with them and their chosen supports to achieve the person they desire to be. Outside of work Leah enjoys reading, aromatherapy, spending time with family and friends, and being a young hip "cat lady.
Leah Stallworth is a Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2002. She attended Indiana Wesleyan University for undergraduate and graduate education. Leah's goal is to meet and accept each patient where they are mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, and work in conjunction with them and their chosen supports to achieve the person they desire to be. Outside of work Leah enjoys reading, aromatherapy, spending time with family and friends, and being a young hip "cat lady.
(216) 616-7469 View (216) 616-7469
Photo of James Srp, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cuyahoga County, OH
James Srp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, CNS, LICDC
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
James Srp has been working in the field of addictions for the past 30 years. He was most recently a nurse practitioner at Addiction Recovery Services of University Hospitals of Cleveland, a program he helped develop in 2004 after an 18 year tenure as a staff nurse, followed by service as a clinical nurse specialist for the Cleveland Clinic Alcohol and Drug Recovery Center. He holds a master's degree in psychology from Cleveland State University, a master's degree in nursing from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), and a bachelor's degree in nursing from Ursuline College.
James Srp has been working in the field of addictions for the past 30 years. He was most recently a nurse practitioner at Addiction Recovery Services of University Hospitals of Cleveland, a program he helped develop in 2004 after an 18 year tenure as a staff nurse, followed by service as a clinical nurse specialist for the Cleveland Clinic Alcohol and Drug Recovery Center. He holds a master's degree in psychology from Cleveland State University, a master's degree in nursing from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), and a bachelor's degree in nursing from Ursuline College.
(216) 677-1840 View (216) 677-1840
Photo of Compass Crossing Behavioral Health- Lacresha Rox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cuyahoga County, OH
Compass Crossing Behavioral Health- Lacresha Rox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
University Heights, OH 44118  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS, SAME WEEK, EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE. Are you or a loved one are suffering from mental health concerns? Seeking help can be overwhelming. Look no further. We offer high quality, compassionate care in a judgement free environment with a provider who listens to your concerns.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS, SAME WEEK, EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE. Are you or a loved one are suffering from mental health concerns? Seeking help can be overwhelming. Look no further. We offer high quality, compassionate care in a judgement free environment with a provider who listens to your concerns.
(216) 454-2570 View (216) 454-2570
Photo of VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cuyahoga County, OH
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44114  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable out of pocket rates. Also Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients for telehealth visits in Ohio for psych evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable out of pocket rates. Also Accepting some insurance plans.
(614) 347-0826 View (614) 347-0826
Photo of Andrea Balluch-Dean, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cuyahoga County, OH
Andrea Balluch-Dean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44114  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Andrea. Welcome to my private practice, New Leaf Mental Health & Wellness, LLC. I presume you found my profile because you are seeking to make a positive change in your life? I applaud your efforts. Taking the first step on your path to wellness is the most important, and for some, the most intimidating. Lets face it, it’s not easy to open up to a total stranger about your mental health needs. That’s why it is important to find a mental health clinician with whom you can connect. A clinician who possesses the qualities and skills essential to developing and growing a therapeutic relationship with you.
Hi, I’m Andrea. Welcome to my private practice, New Leaf Mental Health & Wellness, LLC. I presume you found my profile because you are seeking to make a positive change in your life? I applaud your efforts. Taking the first step on your path to wellness is the most important, and for some, the most intimidating. Lets face it, it’s not easy to open up to a total stranger about your mental health needs. That’s why it is important to find a mental health clinician with whom you can connect. A clinician who possesses the qualities and skills essential to developing and growing a therapeutic relationship with you.
(513) 643-1325 View (513) 643-1325
Photo of David McNair, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cuyahoga County, OH
David McNair
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Bedford, OH 44146
David McNair is an Ohio native that earned his bachelor's degree in nursing from Kent State University and master's degree in nursing from Walden University. Board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, he has over a decade of clinical experience in inpatient, outpatient, and forensic mental health care and also serves as an educator for undergraduate nursing. He sees patients ages 6 to 75 and specializes in treating anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and schizophrenia.
David McNair is an Ohio native that earned his bachelor's degree in nursing from Kent State University and master's degree in nursing from Walden University. Board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, he has over a decade of clinical experience in inpatient, outpatient, and forensic mental health care and also serves as an educator for undergraduate nursing. He sees patients ages 6 to 75 and specializes in treating anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and schizophrenia.
(234) 348-3792 View (234) 348-3792
Photo of Veena Tripathi Ahuja, Psychiatrist in Cuyahoga County, OH
Veena Tripathi Ahuja
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44124  (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Patients! Dr. Ahuja is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist at Balanced Innovative Care. She has expertise in treating all mental health disorders including Autism, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, and Stress-related disorders. She offers specialized diagnostic Autism evaluations, ADHD evaluations, one-time consultations, and ongoing care with medication management to patients in Ohio and Wisconsin. Online appointments are available with no waitlist including evenings and weekends. Schedule a new patient appointment directly from her website here: www.BalancedInnovativeCare.com/new-patients
Now Accepting New Patients! Dr. Ahuja is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist at Balanced Innovative Care. She has expertise in treating all mental health disorders including Autism, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Trauma, and Stress-related disorders. She offers specialized diagnostic Autism evaluations, ADHD evaluations, one-time consultations, and ongoing care with medication management to patients in Ohio and Wisconsin. Online appointments are available with no waitlist including evenings and weekends. Schedule a new patient appointment directly from her website here: www.BalancedInnovativeCare.com/new-patients
(614) 660-5449 View (614) 660-5449

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Kamala Adury, Psychiatrist in Cuyahoga County, OH
Kamala Adury
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Medina, OH 44256
My job is to listen and validate the pain and trauma that my clients have been through and help them to pay attention to their own emotional needs.
Clients come with come with mental health and/or sleep issues. The goal is an improved quality of life or rather a sense of wellbeing. If it is a major episode of depression or an episode of psychosis, the goal is remission and relapse prevention. It is a place where you can safely, reliably and productively simplify your complex pharmaceutical regimen. The approach to treatment is multidisciplinary and prescribing or deprescribing might be recommended (but not enforced). We offer TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for treatment resistant depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
My job is to listen and validate the pain and trauma that my clients have been through and help them to pay attention to their own emotional needs.
Clients come with come with mental health and/or sleep issues. The goal is an improved quality of life or rather a sense of wellbeing. If it is a major episode of depression or an episode of psychosis, the goal is remission and relapse prevention. It is a place where you can safely, reliably and productively simplify your complex pharmaceutical regimen. The approach to treatment is multidisciplinary and prescribing or deprescribing might be recommended (but not enforced). We offer TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for treatment resistant depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
(330) 625-9667 View (330) 625-9667
Photo of Jerret Kolesar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cuyahoga County, OH
Jerret Kolesar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Warren, OH 44484
Open Water Counseling uses a holistic means of treatment that includes both counseling and medication management for the treatment of mental illness.
I work with individuals, couples, and families, helping them to navigate challenges that hinder the experience of the beauty and joy of life. I look to build healthy and trustworthy relationships with clients in order to tackle some of life's most difficult issues. In a confidential and safe environment, I address areas of addiction, anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD, marital/premarital counseling, etc. I am able to address minor and major problems that are impeding you from experiencing your full potential.
Open Water Counseling uses a holistic means of treatment that includes both counseling and medication management for the treatment of mental illness.
I work with individuals, couples, and families, helping them to navigate challenges that hinder the experience of the beauty and joy of life. I look to build healthy and trustworthy relationships with clients in order to tackle some of life's most difficult issues. In a confidential and safe environment, I address areas of addiction, anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD, marital/premarital counseling, etc. I am able to address minor and major problems that are impeding you from experiencing your full potential.
(234) 742-4495 View (234) 742-4495
Photo of Care Clinic, Psychiatrist in Cuyahoga County, OH
Care Clinic
Psychiatrist, DO, MS, DABPN
Verified Verified
We also treat chronic pain.
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
We also treat chronic pain.
At the CARE Clinic, we provide our patients with up-to-date, evidenced based practices along with some of the most experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals in the field. Our mission has been to provide quality care in a safe environment - earning us a reputation as the clinic most often recommended by family members and colleagues alike. From Addiction Medicine to Brain Health and Wellness, our personalized services allow us to cater to your individual needs. We truly believe that recovery can be a reality for everyone.
(330) 708-7210 View (330) 708-7210
Photo of Becca Granger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Cuyahoga County, OH
Becca Granger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Mansfield, OH 44902
Are you a high functioning individual who has mastered the art of, "I'm fine. It's fine. Everything's fine?" Wondering how much longer you can keep up the pace and who will be impacted if you cannot? Looking for a confidential space where you don’t have to be “on?” A space to be real and address the stress, anxiety, burnout, depression, and insomnia that often come with great responsibility? Space to breathe, be heard, gain perspective, develop solutions, and leave with hope?
Are you a high functioning individual who has mastered the art of, "I'm fine. It's fine. Everything's fine?" Wondering how much longer you can keep up the pace and who will be impacted if you cannot? Looking for a confidential space where you don’t have to be “on?” A space to be real and address the stress, anxiety, burnout, depression, and insomnia that often come with great responsibility? Space to breathe, be heard, gain perspective, develop solutions, and leave with hope?
(419) 664-5378 View (419) 664-5378

See more therapy options for Cuyahoga County

Chronic Pain Psychiatrists

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.