I’m excited to share that I have officially completed training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP) and received my certification. As someone who has personally lived with chronic pain, I know how deeply it affects not just your body, but also your emotions, thoughts, and daily life. That’s why I am so grateful to now offer this service at Navarro Counseling.
CBT-CP is an evidence-based approach designed specifically for individuals living with ongoing pain. Unlike treatments that focus only on medication or symptom suppression, CBT-CP helps people build the skills to change how pain impacts their life — improving mood, function, and overall quality of life.
What is CBT for Chronic Pain?
CBT-CP is a structured, short-term therapy that addresses the biopsychosocial nature of pain. Pain is not only physical — it is shaped by thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By working on these areas, people can regain a sense of control and reduce the suffering that comes with chronic pain.
Key components include:
- Pain education — understanding how pain works in the brain and body.
- Cognitive restructuring — learning to recognize and challenge unhelpful thoughts like catastrophizing (“I can’t handle this”).
- Behavioral activation — re-engaging with meaningful, enjoyable activities.
- Relaxation training — practices such as deep breathing, guided imagery, and progressive muscle relaxation.
- Activity pacing — balancing movement and rest to avoid flare-ups.
- Sleep hygiene — creating routines that support healthy, restorative rest.
- Mindfulness practices — cultivating present-moment awareness to reduce stress and calm the nervous system.
Benefits of CBT-CP
Clients who participate in CBT-CP can experience:
- Reduced distress and improved mood.
- Better coping strategies for managing pain flare-ups.
- More balanced daily routines with less over- and under-activity.
- Stronger sense of self-efficacy (“I can handle this”).
- Improved sleep and energy.
- Re-engagement in valued activities and relationships.
- A clearer, more mindful perspective on living with chronic pain.
The Importance of Mindfulness
One of the most powerful tools in CBT-CP is mindfulness. When living with chronic pain, it’s easy to get stuck in fear of future flare-ups or frustration about the past. Mindfulness helps bring attention back to the present moment. This shift doesn’t erase pain, but it changes the relationship with pain, reducing emotional suffering and empowering clients to live more fully.
At Navarro Counseling, my goal is to walk alongside you as you build these tools — not just for mental and emotional well-being, but for your physical health and resilience as well.
If you or someone you love is living with chronic pain, I invite you to reach out and learn more about how CBT-CP could support your journey toward healing and empowerment.
📞 Contact: NavarroTherapy.com
Navarro Counseling 