Back pain often has a psychological component. Therefore psychological support and counseling can be helpful in patients suffering from chronic pain.

There is a whole range of partially controversial psychotherapeutic methods. What technique is chosen depends on the symptoms and on the relationship between therapist and patient. A combined "body and soul" treatment is used when depression and/or psychological crisis are the origin of pain or at least contribute. In most cases the patient needs between 6 to 12 sessions for pain relief. Full psychoanalysis is not needed.

Sometimes behavioral training is needed to overcome deleterious habits and the pain they generate.