Chronic Pain Counselling in Torquay, VIC

Photo of Cassandra Helena Revell - Comfort Couch Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Comfort Couch Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Torquay, VIC 3228
Hi, I'm Sandy Revell. At Comfort Couch our aim is to create an inviting space where you feel at ease to work on the issues that are important to you. We hope to help you heal from the wounds of your past through our holistic approaches addressing your mind, body and soul. By addressing these issues you will be free to live the life that you were intended. At Comfort Couch, we focus on the Whole Person.
Hi, I'm Sandy Revell. At Comfort Couch our aim is to create an inviting space where you feel at ease to work on the issues that are important to you. We hope to help you heal from the wounds of your past through our holistic approaches addressing your mind, body and soul. By addressing these issues you will be free to live the life that you were intended. At Comfort Couch, we focus on the Whole Person.
(07) 4428 2882 View (07) 4428 2882
Photo of Shannon John Bowman - Create Balance Psychotherapy and Counselling , PACFA, Psychotherapist
Create Balance Psychotherapy and Counselling
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Torquay, VIC 3228
When you're struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, or trauma, life can feel out of control. At Create Balance Psychotherapy and Counselling, we understand how difficult life can be when you're struggling with mental health concerns. Our team of psychotherapists will assist you to feel back in control of your life. We will help you get to the root cause of your problems so that you can make lasting positive changes. What would your life feel like if you weren't always anxious, depressed or having flashbacks and nightmares? Psychotherapy is the first step to living that life. Medicare rebates are available.
When you're struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, or trauma, life can feel out of control. At Create Balance Psychotherapy and Counselling, we understand how difficult life can be when you're struggling with mental health concerns. Our team of psychotherapists will assist you to feel back in control of your life. We will help you get to the root cause of your problems so that you can make lasting positive changes. What would your life feel like if you weren't always anxious, depressed or having flashbacks and nightmares? Psychotherapy is the first step to living that life. Medicare rebates are available.
(03) 9068 5775 View (03) 9068 5775
Photo of Amy-Jane Evans, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Amy-Jane Evans
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Torquay, VIC 3228
I help those challenged with mental health, change, stressors, trauma and those looking to level up in their life in domains of wellness, performance, fitness, lifestyle and career. Whether you're struggling to cope or looking to get the most out of your life, it's not uncommon to feel stuck, get in your own way, or not know where to start. You might decide to work with me if you need that objective space and time where you can work in a safe, collaborative, understanding space to heal your past & come up with practical solutions to improve your capacity for coping, developing your mindset and optimising performance.
I help those challenged with mental health, change, stressors, trauma and those looking to level up in their life in domains of wellness, performance, fitness, lifestyle and career. Whether you're struggling to cope or looking to get the most out of your life, it's not uncommon to feel stuck, get in your own way, or not know where to start. You might decide to work with me if you need that objective space and time where you can work in a safe, collaborative, understanding space to heal your past & come up with practical solutions to improve your capacity for coping, developing your mindset and optimising performance.
(03) 4236 7435 View (03) 4236 7435
Photo of Megan Pilon - Endeavour Psychology, PsyBA Prov, Psychologist
Megan Pilon - Endeavour Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torquay, VIC 3228
Book online at www.endeavourpsychology.com.au - Megan is a Registered Psychologist with experience in clinical, community, and workplace settings. Megan has specific interests in helping young people and adults to identify and leverage their strengths, develop their understanding of themselves and their relationships, and meet personal, social, educational, and work-related goals. Megan has a deep interest in the way the mind, brain, and body work together to influence mental functioning, health, and wellbeing, and spends part of her time contributing to research projects for Deakin University’s Food and Mood Centre.
Book online at www.endeavourpsychology.com.au - Megan is a Registered Psychologist with experience in clinical, community, and workplace settings. Megan has specific interests in helping young people and adults to identify and leverage their strengths, develop their understanding of themselves and their relationships, and meet personal, social, educational, and work-related goals. Megan has a deep interest in the way the mind, brain, and body work together to influence mental functioning, health, and wellbeing, and spends part of her time contributing to research projects for Deakin University’s Food and Mood Centre.
(03) 4238 1789 View (03) 4238 1789
Photo of Anna Maxwell, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Anna Maxwell
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Torquay, VIC 3228
Anna is a registered psychologist and is passionate about helping adults and older adolescents to improve their happiness and wellbeing. Anna has experience working with parents and has facilitated early parenting and attachment-based group programs including Circle of Security and Keeping Your Child in Mind. Anna is committed to building strong, respectful, and collaborative working relationships with her clients. She believes in taking a gentle, person-centred approach so that each client feels heard and understood. Anna supports clients in developing their own insight, self-understanding, and self-compassion.
Anna is a registered psychologist and is passionate about helping adults and older adolescents to improve their happiness and wellbeing. Anna has experience working with parents and has facilitated early parenting and attachment-based group programs including Circle of Security and Keeping Your Child in Mind. Anna is committed to building strong, respectful, and collaborative working relationships with her clients. She believes in taking a gentle, person-centred approach so that each client feels heard and understood. Anna supports clients in developing their own insight, self-understanding, and self-compassion.
(03) 9000 0866 View (03) 9000 0866

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nicole Rodriguez, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Nicole Rodriguez
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Highton, VIC 3216
At Paediatric & Family Therapy, we prioritize establishing a trusting and collaborative bond with our clients. Creating a warm and supportive environment encourages open communication and provides a safe space for healing. Our areas of focus are Anxiety, Changes in Family Dynamics, Coping Strategies, Depression, Emotional Regulation, Loss/Grief, and Stress.
At Paediatric & Family Therapy, we prioritize establishing a trusting and collaborative bond with our clients. Creating a warm and supportive environment encourages open communication and provides a safe space for healing. Our areas of focus are Anxiety, Changes in Family Dynamics, Coping Strategies, Depression, Emotional Regulation, Loss/Grief, and Stress.
(03) 5223 2840 View (03) 5223 2840
Photo of Natalie Butyn, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Natalie Butyn
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216
BA(Psych) PGDip (Psych) MPsych (Counselling), MAPS Natalie is a fully registered psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Agency. She enjoys working adult clients (18+) in Geelong. Natalie provides a collaborative therapeutic relationship for her clients using her engaging and down to earth interpersonal style. She aims to reduce emotional distress and strengthen client resilience to support clients to achieve their counselling goals.
BA(Psych) PGDip (Psych) MPsych (Counselling), MAPS Natalie is a fully registered psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Agency. She enjoys working adult clients (18+) in Geelong. Natalie provides a collaborative therapeutic relationship for her clients using her engaging and down to earth interpersonal style. She aims to reduce emotional distress and strengthen client resilience to support clients to achieve their counselling goals.
(03) 4237 7664 View (03) 4237 7664

Online Therapists

Photo of Emma Lowe, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Emma Lowe
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Mornington, VIC 3931
I completed the Master’s of Counselling and Psychotherapy at The Cairnmillar Institute, Melbourne, specialising in; trauma & grief, depression & anxiety, relationships, sexuality, chronic pain, work/school issues, communication, emotional regulation and processing, perfectionism & inner criticism and eating disorders.
I wholeheartedly believe in therapeutic healing through safety, compassion & acceptance in the present moment. If we are in distress, feeling lost, alone, sad, anxious or angry it can be hard to know whom to talk with or, what to talk about. Sometimes we don't want to talk at all to start with and, would prefer to do a creative/movement exercise to express ourselves. Maybe we know exactly what we want to talk about and explore, maybe learning new skills to integrate into daily life. I can be there to support you, whatever stage you are at.
I completed the Master’s of Counselling and Psychotherapy at The Cairnmillar Institute, Melbourne, specialising in; trauma & grief, depression & anxiety, relationships, sexuality, chronic pain, work/school issues, communication, emotional regulation and processing, perfectionism & inner criticism and eating disorders.
I wholeheartedly believe in therapeutic healing through safety, compassion & acceptance in the present moment. If we are in distress, feeling lost, alone, sad, anxious or angry it can be hard to know whom to talk with or, what to talk about. Sometimes we don't want to talk at all to start with and, would prefer to do a creative/movement exercise to express ourselves. Maybe we know exactly what we want to talk about and explore, maybe learning new skills to integrate into daily life. I can be there to support you, whatever stage you are at.
(08) 9025 3270 View (08) 9025 3270
Photo of Tessa Lancashire, MA, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Tessa Lancashire
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Brunswick West, VIC 3055
Waitlist for new clients
It can be hard to consider coming to therapy… You might be experiencing chronic pain or recurring physical symptoms. Perhaps you are exhausted and you feel like you have already tried everything. Maybe you are worried or overwhelmed by the relationships in your life. You could be trying to understand how experiences in your life are impacting your sense of self, but need more support in this process... These are all good reasons to reach out, and there are many more.
It can be hard to consider coming to therapy… You might be experiencing chronic pain or recurring physical symptoms. Perhaps you are exhausted and you feel like you have already tried everything. Maybe you are worried or overwhelmed by the relationships in your life. You could be trying to understand how experiences in your life are impacting your sense of self, but need more support in this process... These are all good reasons to reach out, and there are many more.
(03) 7003 2884 View (03) 7003 2884
Photo of Sabrina M Brient, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Sabrina M Brient
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brunswick, VIC 3056
Sabrina can offer support in some of the following areas: Neurodivergence (Autistic and ADHDer support, not diagnostic assessments), LGBTIQA+ support, Gender questioning (support, not Gender-affirming reports), Sexuality and intimacy, Anxiety and stress, Diverse abilities (cognitive, communication, learning), Chronic pain, Parenting support.
Sabrina believes in the transformative power of authenticity and self-celebration for individuals of all ages. Her mission is to create a safe and affirming environment where clients of all ages feel able to unmask and focus on their goals without fear of judgment. She takes a person-led approach and firmly believes in combining her skills and training with a client’s expertise in their own experiences to empower them to thrive authentically as themselves. Sabrina’s approach to therapy is inclusive, neuro-divergent affirming, gender diversity affirming, and trauma-informed.
Sabrina can offer support in some of the following areas: Neurodivergence (Autistic and ADHDer support, not diagnostic assessments), LGBTIQA+ support, Gender questioning (support, not Gender-affirming reports), Sexuality and intimacy, Anxiety and stress, Diverse abilities (cognitive, communication, learning), Chronic pain, Parenting support.
Sabrina believes in the transformative power of authenticity and self-celebration for individuals of all ages. Her mission is to create a safe and affirming environment where clients of all ages feel able to unmask and focus on their goals without fear of judgment. She takes a person-led approach and firmly believes in combining her skills and training with a client’s expertise in their own experiences to empower them to thrive authentically as themselves. Sabrina’s approach to therapy is inclusive, neuro-divergent affirming, gender diversity affirming, and trauma-informed.
(03) 7303 3966 View (03) 7303 3966
Photo of Katherine Trudi Bonaldi - In Bloom Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
In Bloom Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Tim and Katherine have appointment availability. At In Bloom Psychology, we provide a trauma sensitive service that aims to reduce distress, promote healing and allow people to flourish. The service works with adults from a diverse range of backgrounds. In particular, therapy is provided for life transitions and adjustment issues, complex PTSD and PTSD, anxiety conditions, OCD, self-esteem issues, perfectionism and people pleasing, depression, work stress and burnout, body image concerns and binge eating and chronic pain. Katherine also provides Supervision to registered psychologists and clinical registrars.
Tim and Katherine have appointment availability. At In Bloom Psychology, we provide a trauma sensitive service that aims to reduce distress, promote healing and allow people to flourish. The service works with adults from a diverse range of backgrounds. In particular, therapy is provided for life transitions and adjustment issues, complex PTSD and PTSD, anxiety conditions, OCD, self-esteem issues, perfectionism and people pleasing, depression, work stress and burnout, body image concerns and binge eating and chronic pain. Katherine also provides Supervision to registered psychologists and clinical registrars.
(03) 7003 2214 View (03) 7003 2214
Photo of Vicky Bablas, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Vicky Bablas
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Altona North, VIC 3025  (Online Only)
I am a registered clinical psychologist experienced in the assessment and treatment of a variety of mental health concerns and clinical conditions, such as depression, anxiety, panic, specific phobias, chronic pain conditions, stress and adjustment issues, sleep disturbance & insomnia, anger issues, grief & loss, relationship issues, self-esteem issues as well as trauma & PTSD. I work primarily with adults and adolescents and am committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment for you to feel safe to explore your concerns fully, and work together to develop a plan to suit you.
I am a registered clinical psychologist experienced in the assessment and treatment of a variety of mental health concerns and clinical conditions, such as depression, anxiety, panic, specific phobias, chronic pain conditions, stress and adjustment issues, sleep disturbance & insomnia, anger issues, grief & loss, relationship issues, self-esteem issues as well as trauma & PTSD. I work primarily with adults and adolescents and am committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment for you to feel safe to explore your concerns fully, and work together to develop a plan to suit you.
(02) 4504 0213 View (02) 4504 0213
Photo of Ayna Hennessy, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Ayna Hennessy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carlton, VIC 3053  (Online Only)
Overwhelmed? I have lived experience and extensive knowledge of the complexities of ADHD, Sensory Processing, Autism, disordered eating & chronic pain. My unique life with exposure to diversity and unexpected curveballs has shaped me into an insightful, reflective and understanding counsellor. My thirst for knowledge, hyper-focus skills and resolve to fight led to me seeking out my own answers surrounding my health. It finally paid off, & I hope it can help you. I am now treated/mentored/supervised and trained by the MVPs in ADHD & Autism & its many comorbidities. I do not refuse vulnerable & complex clients; I used to be one.
Overwhelmed? I have lived experience and extensive knowledge of the complexities of ADHD, Sensory Processing, Autism, disordered eating & chronic pain. My unique life with exposure to diversity and unexpected curveballs has shaped me into an insightful, reflective and understanding counsellor. My thirst for knowledge, hyper-focus skills and resolve to fight led to me seeking out my own answers surrounding my health. It finally paid off, & I hope it can help you. I am now treated/mentored/supervised and trained by the MVPs in ADHD & Autism & its many comorbidities. I do not refuse vulnerable & complex clients; I used to be one.
(03) 7003 2926 View (03) 7003 2926
Photo of George Gintilas, PACFA, Psychotherapist
George Gintilas
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Elwood, VIC 3184
I work as a Somatic Body/Subconscious based Psychotherapist. With a deep and strong expertise in helping clients release and heal complex trauma. In private practice since 1991. (Full-time since 1997.) Sessions are 90 mins long to allow deeper, more connected and focused work. There is less talking and more time focused on your internal body with very deep somatic mindfulness work. Help embody more of your spirit into your body. Help free the blocks to your aliveness, feelings, vitality, confidence, joy, love and peace of mind. Release chronic pain and anxiety. Move and feel your body into greater health and wellbeing.
I work as a Somatic Body/Subconscious based Psychotherapist. With a deep and strong expertise in helping clients release and heal complex trauma. In private practice since 1991. (Full-time since 1997.) Sessions are 90 mins long to allow deeper, more connected and focused work. There is less talking and more time focused on your internal body with very deep somatic mindfulness work. Help embody more of your spirit into your body. Help free the blocks to your aliveness, feelings, vitality, confidence, joy, love and peace of mind. Release chronic pain and anxiety. Move and feel your body into greater health and wellbeing.
(03) 7003 2918 View (03) 7003 2918
Photo of Iris Kucuk, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Iris Kucuk
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3004
Iris is a clinical psychologist who is passionate about helping clients improve their psychological health and wellbeing. Iris is experienced in working with people from all walks of life, in a range of settings including public hospitals, universities, not for profit organisations and private practice. She can provide treatment for a broad range of presenting issues, and has a special interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, disordered eating and chronic pain. Iris also works with clients struggling to adjust to stressful life changes, pre and post-natal mental health issues and identity issues.
Iris is a clinical psychologist who is passionate about helping clients improve their psychological health and wellbeing. Iris is experienced in working with people from all walks of life, in a range of settings including public hospitals, universities, not for profit organisations and private practice. She can provide treatment for a broad range of presenting issues, and has a special interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, disordered eating and chronic pain. Iris also works with clients struggling to adjust to stressful life changes, pre and post-natal mental health issues and identity issues.
(03) 7303 3825 View (03) 7303 3825
Photo of Lisa Winther, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Lisa Winther
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
Currently, I'm focused on blending my private practice with my work in the public sector, where I specialise in chronic pain management.
Hello there! I'm an experienced counselling psychologist and registered supervisor, dedicated to helping individuals find their path and unlock new possibilities through therapeutic engagement and evidence-informed techniques. I'm really passionate about emotionally focused therapies. Why? Because I've seen how exploring emotional patterns can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and others, paving the way for tackling life's hurdles with greater clarity and resilience.
Currently, I'm focused on blending my private practice with my work in the public sector, where I specialise in chronic pain management.
Hello there! I'm an experienced counselling psychologist and registered supervisor, dedicated to helping individuals find their path and unlock new possibilities through therapeutic engagement and evidence-informed techniques. I'm really passionate about emotionally focused therapies. Why? Because I've seen how exploring emotional patterns can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and others, paving the way for tackling life's hurdles with greater clarity and resilience.
(03) 7003 2135 View (03) 7003 2135
Photo of Christian Long - Chris Long Clinical Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Chris Long Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Coburg, VIC 3058  (Online Only)
I take pride in working with people to support them to achieve their goals and to lead a fulfilling life. I commit to individualised and evidence-based practice, which means holding you as the client at the centre of therapeutic work whilst providing psychotherapy supported by clinical research. A range of different modalities of therapies are offered for a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, substance use, chronic pain and personality disorders. I work with adults, adolescents, children and families.
I take pride in working with people to support them to achieve their goals and to lead a fulfilling life. I commit to individualised and evidence-based practice, which means holding you as the client at the centre of therapeutic work whilst providing psychotherapy supported by clinical research. A range of different modalities of therapies are offered for a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, substance use, chronic pain and personality disorders. I work with adults, adolescents, children and families.
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Photo of Pat Favorito - Reconnect Healing, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reconnect Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079
People seek Pat's counselling and therapeutic healing services for a variety of reasons incl: • negative experiences intruding upon life • difficulties coping panic or anxiety • feeling low or depression • sadness and grief • difficulties in relationships including break-ups • experiences of violence or abuse • Trauma e.g. car accident, a significant injury, illness, or event • low self-esteem • phobias and fears • chronic pain or fatigue • negative patterns of behaviour • medical traumas • complex trauma & PTSD • LGBTIQ+ transitioning / coming out • job loss • midlife stresses • retirement • feeling dissatisfied with life.
People seek Pat's counselling and therapeutic healing services for a variety of reasons incl: • negative experiences intruding upon life • difficulties coping panic or anxiety • feeling low or depression • sadness and grief • difficulties in relationships including break-ups • experiences of violence or abuse • Trauma e.g. car accident, a significant injury, illness, or event • low self-esteem • phobias and fears • chronic pain or fatigue • negative patterns of behaviour • medical traumas • complex trauma & PTSD • LGBTIQ+ transitioning / coming out • job loss • midlife stresses • retirement • feeling dissatisfied with life.
(03) 8338 1743 View (03) 8338 1743
Photo of Alison O'Connor, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Alison O'Connor
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Flemington, VIC 3031  (Online Only)
I work with a range of psychological issues including: mood disorders, lifestyle stressors, burnout, self-image and self-esteem issues, personal development, health anxiety, chronic health conditions and chronic pain.
At Collaborative Minds Psychology my goal is simple; to create a warm and welcoming environment where I work collaboratively with clients to identify solutions and strategies that best fit their psychological needs.
I work with a range of psychological issues including: mood disorders, lifestyle stressors, burnout, self-image and self-esteem issues, personal development, health anxiety, chronic health conditions and chronic pain.
At Collaborative Minds Psychology my goal is simple; to create a warm and welcoming environment where I work collaboratively with clients to identify solutions and strategies that best fit their psychological needs.
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Photo of Dr Kamil Wolyniec, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Kamil Wolyniec
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Warrandyte, VIC 3113
My main areas of interest include supporting people with trauma, depression, anxiety disorders, relationship and interpersonal difficulties, existential problems, anger issues, grief and loss, addiction, OCD, chronic pain, fatigue and LGBTIQ+ related challenges.
I am an AHPRA registered psychologist. I employ a holistic, culturally sensitive approach, that is trauma-informed, attachment aware and grounded in bio-psycho-social-spiritual model. I trust in each person’s inherent potential to experience wholeness through self-compassion and self–inquiry/self-awareness. I am committed to creating a person-centred, safe, non-judgmental, compassionate, and collaborative therapeutic experience.
My main areas of interest include supporting people with trauma, depression, anxiety disorders, relationship and interpersonal difficulties, existential problems, anger issues, grief and loss, addiction, OCD, chronic pain, fatigue and LGBTIQ+ related challenges.
I am an AHPRA registered psychologist. I employ a holistic, culturally sensitive approach, that is trauma-informed, attachment aware and grounded in bio-psycho-social-spiritual model. I trust in each person’s inherent potential to experience wholeness through self-compassion and self–inquiry/self-awareness. I am committed to creating a person-centred, safe, non-judgmental, compassionate, and collaborative therapeutic experience.
(03) 8771 4534 View (03) 8771 4534

See more therapy options for Torquay

Chronic Pain Counsellors

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, catastrophising, 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 behavioural 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.