What is Chronic Pain?

Chronic pain is long-lasting pain that continues for weeks, months, or even years, even after an injury has healed or without a clear cause. Unlike short-term pain, which helps the body respond to injury, chronic pain can affect both the body and mind. It can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression, as the constant discomfort makes daily life more difficult. The mind and body are closely connected, meaning pain can worsen with negative emotions, and in turn, pain can increase feelings of frustration and sadness. Managing chronic pain often requires a combination of medical care, physical therapy, and mental health support to address both the physical and emotional effects.

Why would I need a psychologist for chronic pain?

Chronic pain isn’t just a physical problem. It affects every part of life. It can make daily tasks harder, drain energy, and take a toll on mood, sleep, and overall well-being. Pain and emotions are deeply connected; stress, anxiety, and depression can actually make pain feel worse, creating a frustrating cycle that’s hard to break. Sleep problems are also common, as pain can make it difficult to rest, leaving the body without the recovery time it needs. Over time, this can lead to feelings of hopelessness, isolation, and exhaustion. This is why psychological treatment is an important part of pain management. Therapy can help people develop skills to change the way they respond to pain, reduce emotional distress, and regain a sense of control over their lives.

Dr. Sentell is certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP)

CBT-CP is a research-backed approach that helps people manage pain by shifting unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. With CBT-CP, we work together to reframe negative thoughts about pain, practice relaxation techniques, and develop healthier routines that support movement, sleep, and emotional well-being. This approach helps reduce pain intensity and impact, so you can get back to living your life with more confidence and less struggle.