Chronic Pain Therapists in St Albert, AB
Cassandra Leigh Elliott
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA Hon, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
I draw upon several evidence-based treatment modalities such as CBT, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Exposure therapies, ACT, and others to ensure treatment fits your specific needs.
Hello and welcome. I am a UofA Master’s qualified Registered Provisional Psychologist and 10+ year Veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces who was Medically Released for a Spinal Injury sustained during service. I work with clients aged 16+ who are dealing with MVAs, Chronic Pain, Injury Recovery, Medical System Trauma, PTSD, Life Transitions, Military Sexual Trauma, Anxiety, OCD, and ADHD/Neurodivergence. If you are here then you are looking for someone who deeply understands some of what you have been through and has the tools to help you overcome the challenges you are experiencing and develop a healthier life.
I draw upon several evidence-based treatment modalities such as CBT, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Exposure therapies, ACT, and others to ensure treatment fits your specific needs.
Hello and welcome. I am a UofA Master’s qualified Registered Provisional Psychologist and 10+ year Veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces who was Medically Released for a Spinal Injury sustained during service. I work with clients aged 16+ who are dealing with MVAs, Chronic Pain, Injury Recovery, Medical System Trauma, PTSD, Life Transitions, Military Sexual Trauma, Anxiety, OCD, and ADHD/Neurodivergence. If you are here then you are looking for someone who deeply understands some of what you have been through and has the tools to help you overcome the challenges you are experiencing and develop a healthier life.
HopeWell Psychological - ONLINE
Psychologist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N (Online Only)
We are experts who can help individuals heal from anxiety, pain, grief, and trauma.
We are compassionate and experienced Psychologists who have supported adults in various capacities, since 2012. We know that people are resilient and strong but certain life circumstances can be difficult to overcome for most. We have several specialty areas that include working with: 1. people who have gone through a car accident, 2. people who have experienced a significant life change/transition, and 3. people who have experienced trauma (due to military service, emergency responding, or sexual abuse). Currently, we provide only online counselling and have flexible hours.
We are experts who can help individuals heal from anxiety, pain, grief, and trauma.
We are compassionate and experienced Psychologists who have supported adults in various capacities, since 2012. We know that people are resilient and strong but certain life circumstances can be difficult to overcome for most. We have several specialty areas that include working with: 1. people who have gone through a car accident, 2. people who have experienced a significant life change/transition, and 3. people who have experienced trauma (due to military service, emergency responding, or sexual abuse). Currently, we provide only online counselling and have flexible hours.
I work with anxiety, addiction (substance use) and chronic pain. Sometimes the little things become too much and you find you're overreacting or panicking. Maybe you can't get a situation out of your head and you're overthinking or stressed about it. Maybe you tired of numbing the pain or avoiding your problems cause it isn't helping. Sometimes our motivation is to stop passing on unhealthy patterns to our kids. Maybe you want to control your emotions so they don't control you. If you want to work on the roots of addiction and the stress and anxiety that is always brewing below the surface of chronic pain, we could be a fit.
I work with anxiety, addiction (substance use) and chronic pain. Sometimes the little things become too much and you find you're overreacting or panicking. Maybe you can't get a situation out of your head and you're overthinking or stressed about it. Maybe you tired of numbing the pain or avoiding your problems cause it isn't helping. Sometimes our motivation is to stop passing on unhealthy patterns to our kids. Maybe you want to control your emotions so they don't control you. If you want to work on the roots of addiction and the stress and anxiety that is always brewing below the surface of chronic pain, we could be a fit.
I have an interest in supporting individuals in the areas of exposure to trauma, life transitions, mood disruptions, and health related issues (such as chronic pain). I specialize in supporting those who work to enhance the lives of others (e.g. first responders, police, military, child protection workers, nurses, correctional officers) and their families. Working from a client-centered perspective, with a focus on mind-body connection, I endeavor to build a strong therapeutic alliances with my clients based on individual strengths and experiences, which becomes the center point for change.
I have an interest in supporting individuals in the areas of exposure to trauma, life transitions, mood disruptions, and health related issues (such as chronic pain). I specialize in supporting those who work to enhance the lives of others (e.g. first responders, police, military, child protection workers, nurses, correctional officers) and their families. Working from a client-centered perspective, with a focus on mind-body connection, I endeavor to build a strong therapeutic alliances with my clients based on individual strengths and experiences, which becomes the center point for change.
Kristen Kaye Oliveros
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
Life transitions, daily stressors, trauma, and mental illnesses can negatively influence the way we think, feel, and behave. These factors can cause us to feel "stuck" in old habits and patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that no longer serve us. I recognize that when we are stuck, it is difficult to make that first step towards change and reach out for support. Hence, I acknowledge you for making the first step into finding what works best for you. I understand that you want to take charge of your mental and emotional pain so that you can unlock your utmost potential.
Life transitions, daily stressors, trauma, and mental illnesses can negatively influence the way we think, feel, and behave. These factors can cause us to feel "stuck" in old habits and patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that no longer serve us. I recognize that when we are stuck, it is difficult to make that first step towards change and reach out for support. Hence, I acknowledge you for making the first step into finding what works best for you. I understand that you want to take charge of your mental and emotional pain so that you can unlock your utmost potential.
Silverlining Psychological Services Ltd
Psychologist, BSc , MCPsych
Verified Verified
St Albert, AB T8N
20 years ago I began work in mental health as respite care. I later completed my professional goals of becoming a psychologist. Today my focus is Trauma and Addictions with youth and adults and experience with Veterans and First Responders. From the moment we are born we search for connection, love, and a sense of belonging. Growing up, in life this journey can be fraught with struggle, trauma, pain, and loss. But there is a silver lining. Amidst adversity we find courage and authenticity. We can find acceptance and the understanding of self compassion and empathy, that leads into true connection with ourselves and others.
20 years ago I began work in mental health as respite care. I later completed my professional goals of becoming a psychologist. Today my focus is Trauma and Addictions with youth and adults and experience with Veterans and First Responders. From the moment we are born we search for connection, love, and a sense of belonging. Growing up, in life this journey can be fraught with struggle, trauma, pain, and loss. But there is a silver lining. Amidst adversity we find courage and authenticity. We can find acceptance and the understanding of self compassion and empathy, that leads into true connection with ourselves and others.
Renata L Logan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
I specialize in marital and family therapy, and hold special interest in grief/loss; chronic pain; work-life balance; and the integration of holistic medicinal practices for personal growth across the lifespan.
Working from a holistic frame, I believe that the source for all healing and lasting change is rooted in the mind-body-spirit triad, as well as the family-community connection. I support persons of all ages and histories in finding those resources that may guide them towards experiencing greater satisfaction in their daily living, sense of well-being, and in their key relationships. Using a variety of approaches, I tailor the therapeutic experience to best match each client's needs at any given point in therapy.
I specialize in marital and family therapy, and hold special interest in grief/loss; chronic pain; work-life balance; and the integration of holistic medicinal practices for personal growth across the lifespan.
Working from a holistic frame, I believe that the source for all healing and lasting change is rooted in the mind-body-spirit triad, as well as the family-community connection. I support persons of all ages and histories in finding those resources that may guide them towards experiencing greater satisfaction in their daily living, sense of well-being, and in their key relationships. Using a variety of approaches, I tailor the therapeutic experience to best match each client's needs at any given point in therapy.
Together we work on moving those barriers aside, processing trauma, and implementing new tools which can help that pain to dissipate, making space for peace, joy, authenticity, and purpose.
Life feels so disappointing. Despite trying, you can't seem to figure out how to make things better but you know you need them to change. Thinking of how things have been, you feel overwhelmed, upset, and at times detached from your current reality. You struggle to feel good enough and connect to joy in your life. You catch yourself wondering if things will ever feel ok. At some point your authentic self got lost and you can’t quite figure out how to get it back. You long to feel fulfilled and connected within your life. You are looking for a therapist who really gets you and has the tools to help.
Together we work on moving those barriers aside, processing trauma, and implementing new tools which can help that pain to dissipate, making space for peace, joy, authenticity, and purpose.
Life feels so disappointing. Despite trying, you can't seem to figure out how to make things better but you know you need them to change. Thinking of how things have been, you feel overwhelmed, upset, and at times detached from your current reality. You struggle to feel good enough and connect to joy in your life. You catch yourself wondering if things will ever feel ok. At some point your authentic self got lost and you can’t quite figure out how to get it back. You long to feel fulfilled and connected within your life. You are looking for a therapist who really gets you and has the tools to help.
Mitchell Loepp is a Registered Psychologist in Alberta with over 10 years of experience providing therapy and assessment for children, teens, adults, as well as and their families. He specializes in life transitions, as well as assisting his clients in dealing with the physical and emotional pain of various trauma that had been exposed to. In order to address his clients' needs, Mitchell uses an eclectic approach, which incorporates Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)
Mitchell Loepp is a Registered Psychologist in Alberta with over 10 years of experience providing therapy and assessment for children, teens, adults, as well as and their families. He specializes in life transitions, as well as assisting his clients in dealing with the physical and emotional pain of various trauma that had been exposed to. In order to address his clients' needs, Mitchell uses an eclectic approach, which incorporates Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)
Grief is a deeply painful, lonely, and isolating experience. When someone we care about dies, our relationship ends in divorce, or we experience any of the other 40 forms of loss, we often feel unprepared and ill-equipped to deal with our emotions. The wonderful news is, grief does not have to be a life sentence of suffering. There are actionable tools that can help you to move beyond the pain caused by a loss in your life. Whether you are grieving due to a recent loss or a loss from long ago, it is never too soon or too late to heal your heart.
Grief is a deeply painful, lonely, and isolating experience. When someone we care about dies, our relationship ends in divorce, or we experience any of the other 40 forms of loss, we often feel unprepared and ill-equipped to deal with our emotions. The wonderful news is, grief does not have to be a life sentence of suffering. There are actionable tools that can help you to move beyond the pain caused by a loss in your life. Whether you are grieving due to a recent loss or a loss from long ago, it is never too soon or too late to heal your heart.
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
St Albert, AB T8N (Online Only)
We have combined our extensive professional experience with lessons learned from our own personal healing so we are capable of recognizing the depth of pain our clients experience.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We have combined our extensive professional experience with lessons learned from our own personal healing so we are capable of recognizing the depth of pain our clients experience.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
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AltShiftZen - Accepting New Clients
Counsellor, MACP, CCC, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N (Online Only)
Michele specializes in clients who have experienced a life change that has left them feeling lost or unhappy. Traumas and survival patterns that we have buried deep in our subconscious can surface when challenged with life changes causing us to struggle with our new normal. This inner turmoil can throw our natural rhythm of living off disturbing our current adaptive patterns resulting in conditions such as anxiety and depression, questioning of our values and choices, it may challenge our self-esteem, lessen our enjoyment of relationships as well as trigger somatic disorders such as IBS, inflammation and chronic pain.
Michele specializes in clients who have experienced a life change that has left them feeling lost or unhappy. Traumas and survival patterns that we have buried deep in our subconscious can surface when challenged with life changes causing us to struggle with our new normal. This inner turmoil can throw our natural rhythm of living off disturbing our current adaptive patterns resulting in conditions such as anxiety and depression, questioning of our values and choices, it may challenge our self-esteem, lessen our enjoyment of relationships as well as trigger somatic disorders such as IBS, inflammation and chronic pain.
Katie Pelletier
Registered Provisional Psychologist, CD, BSc, MC Psyc
Verified Verified
St Albert, AB T8N
I am currently accepting new clients for daytime appointments. I understand that the decision to seek therapy can be a difficult one, however, life throws curveballs at us, and sometimes those curveballs leave lasting imprints. I specialize in working with individuals who've weathered storms, helping them find solid ground again. Trauma is not a sentence; it's a chapter, and together we can turn the page. I am a veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces and I have extensive experience working with serving and retired members and their families.
I am currently accepting new clients for daytime appointments. I understand that the decision to seek therapy can be a difficult one, however, life throws curveballs at us, and sometimes those curveballs leave lasting imprints. I specialize in working with individuals who've weathered storms, helping them find solid ground again. Trauma is not a sentence; it's a chapter, and together we can turn the page. I am a veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces and I have extensive experience working with serving and retired members and their families.
We specialize in helping people find a therapist who is the right 'fit' for them. We have created a team of psychologists & counsellors who will give the tools you need to rebuild & move forward with your life. We help women and men, couples, kids, teens, & families heal and grow through life's challenges and transitions. Our team specializes in treatments for anxiety and depression, trauma, relationship problems, grief and loss, addictions, stress management, life transition (including divorce, relocation and family/life stages), ADHD, behaviour problems and OCD with kids, as well as personal growth and development.
We specialize in helping people find a therapist who is the right 'fit' for them. We have created a team of psychologists & counsellors who will give the tools you need to rebuild & move forward with your life. We help women and men, couples, kids, teens, & families heal and grow through life's challenges and transitions. Our team specializes in treatments for anxiety and depression, trauma, relationship problems, grief and loss, addictions, stress management, life transition (including divorce, relocation and family/life stages), ADHD, behaviour problems and OCD with kids, as well as personal growth and development.
I believe clients have the inherent ability to create change. It takes courage to step forth and request support which leads to strength and a desire to create new ways of being. Through a meaningful and collaborative therapeutic relationship, I provide a safe and inclusive space for clients to grow and reach their desired potential and authentic self. I provide support to individuals/families that are experiencing challenges within their lives (i.e., gender diverse clients, dysphoria, sexual orientation, anxiety, depression, internalized homophobia/transphobia, coming to terms/coming out, trauma, self-harming, suicidal ideation).
I believe clients have the inherent ability to create change. It takes courage to step forth and request support which leads to strength and a desire to create new ways of being. Through a meaningful and collaborative therapeutic relationship, I provide a safe and inclusive space for clients to grow and reach their desired potential and authentic self. I provide support to individuals/families that are experiencing challenges within their lives (i.e., gender diverse clients, dysphoria, sexual orientation, anxiety, depression, internalized homophobia/transphobia, coming to terms/coming out, trauma, self-harming, suicidal ideation).
I am a Registered Psychologist in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP). I work from a client-centred approach where I believe that the best therapeutic results come from a collaborative approach between client and therapist. I believe that my role is to provide a supportive safe space where your voice is heard and your goals take centre stage. My commitment is to help you not just cope, but to thrive. Together, we will create realistic goals and map out a unique path to achieve them. When the right therapeutic fit is found, you may be surprised at how quickly you begin to feel meaningful change.
I am a Registered Psychologist in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP). I work from a client-centred approach where I believe that the best therapeutic results come from a collaborative approach between client and therapist. I believe that my role is to provide a supportive safe space where your voice is heard and your goals take centre stage. My commitment is to help you not just cope, but to thrive. Together, we will create realistic goals and map out a unique path to achieve them. When the right therapeutic fit is found, you may be surprised at how quickly you begin to feel meaningful change.
I have over 7 years of experience supporting the development of critical life skills for teens and adults with autism. This is a population that I consider to be my special interest and passion. I work with teens and adults of varying backgrounds, needs, and presentations who are prepared to explore their experiences, gain insight and make desired changes through a goal-oriented, strengths-focused approach.
I have over 7 years of experience supporting the development of critical life skills for teens and adults with autism. This is a population that I consider to be my special interest and passion. I work with teens and adults of varying backgrounds, needs, and presentations who are prepared to explore their experiences, gain insight and make desired changes through a goal-oriented, strengths-focused approach.
Lumina Counselling Services
Psychiatric Nurse, MA, BSc, RPN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
I help people overcome anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship issues, and many others. I ensure that my clients have the tools to maintain the gains they have made with me. The services I offer are effective, efficient, collaborative, and affordable. I have an extensive clinical and academic background in psychology, psychiatry, and pharmacology. Moreover, my education in the humanities and my personal varied background helps me serve clients dealing with multicultural, cross-cultural, and family matters. I have been in a private practice since 2009 with 25 years of experience in the field. I also teach at MacEwan University.
I help people overcome anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship issues, and many others. I ensure that my clients have the tools to maintain the gains they have made with me. The services I offer are effective, efficient, collaborative, and affordable. I have an extensive clinical and academic background in psychology, psychiatry, and pharmacology. Moreover, my education in the humanities and my personal varied background helps me serve clients dealing with multicultural, cross-cultural, and family matters. I have been in a private practice since 2009 with 25 years of experience in the field. I also teach at MacEwan University.
And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” —Anaïs Nin I am so glad that you found your way here! It takes admirable courage to take a step towards healing. Sometimes life’s difficulties become more than we can comfortably manage, and we can get stuck in painful patterns of suffering. We may lose sight of ourselves and our capacity for joy. I'm passionate about assisting adults and teens in overcoming daily challenges, healing from traumatic life experiences, and working towards creating a rich, full, and meaningful life.
And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” —Anaïs Nin I am so glad that you found your way here! It takes admirable courage to take a step towards healing. Sometimes life’s difficulties become more than we can comfortably manage, and we can get stuck in painful patterns of suffering. We may lose sight of ourselves and our capacity for joy. I'm passionate about assisting adults and teens in overcoming daily challenges, healing from traumatic life experiences, and working towards creating a rich, full, and meaningful life.
It takes a lot of courage and insight to recognize when you need help to navigate challenges in life and I feel privileged to be able to support individuals seeking a better understanding of themselves and how they exist in the world. I have over 5 years of working with children, youth, and young adults in a variety of public and private mental health settings. I believe humans are driven by connection and I aim to provide an understanding of how the human brain has evolved to meet this need. I have a passion for working with individuals who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, perfectionism, disordered eating, and athletes.
It takes a lot of courage and insight to recognize when you need help to navigate challenges in life and I feel privileged to be able to support individuals seeking a better understanding of themselves and how they exist in the world. I have over 5 years of working with children, youth, and young adults in a variety of public and private mental health settings. I believe humans are driven by connection and I aim to provide an understanding of how the human brain has evolved to meet this need. I have a passion for working with individuals who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, perfectionism, disordered eating, and athletes.
There are many reasons why people pursue counselling. Some want to address specific problematic behaviours. Others, long-term difficulties that have not yet been resolved. Some want to find alternate ways to cope while others want to discover more about themselves in order to live life more authentically. Whatever your concern, it is a privilege to support your personal therapeutic goals on your own self-development journey. I am a Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists and a member of the Psychologists Association of Alberta.
There are many reasons why people pursue counselling. Some want to address specific problematic behaviours. Others, long-term difficulties that have not yet been resolved. Some want to find alternate ways to cope while others want to discover more about themselves in order to live life more authentically. Whatever your concern, it is a privilege to support your personal therapeutic goals on your own self-development journey. I am a Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists and a member of the Psychologists Association of Alberta.
Have you had an experience such as medical trauma, past experiences, or present circumstances that have caused you to be hypervigilant, reactive and having difficulty sleeping? With everything going on in your life it may be difficult to manage your relationships, career and the demands that are on you. Alot of you may have been having trouble seeking support because you have been putting your families first; however, it is now your turn to get support. it can impact you physically and Psychological to not deal with trauma. I believe these challenges you are going through are workable and there can be hope to feel lighter.
Have you had an experience such as medical trauma, past experiences, or present circumstances that have caused you to be hypervigilant, reactive and having difficulty sleeping? With everything going on in your life it may be difficult to manage your relationships, career and the demands that are on you. Alot of you may have been having trouble seeking support because you have been putting your families first; however, it is now your turn to get support. it can impact you physically and Psychological to not deal with trauma. I believe these challenges you are going through are workable and there can be hope to feel lighter.
Welcome! I support adults, new parents, and professionals. I often work with self-criticism, an automatic response to stress that depletes us emotionally and physically. I bring a decade of experience with self-compassion and mindfulness to target the self-critic and improve coping, self-understanding, and connection. I view therapy holistically and consider the mind-body connection when treating issues like anxiety, perfectionism, and stress. I value compassionate feedback and new perspectives as much as I value humor. Other areas of interest are parenting strategies, burn out, relationship dynamics, and communication skills.
Welcome! I support adults, new parents, and professionals. I often work with self-criticism, an automatic response to stress that depletes us emotionally and physically. I bring a decade of experience with self-compassion and mindfulness to target the self-critic and improve coping, self-understanding, and connection. I view therapy holistically and consider the mind-body connection when treating issues like anxiety, perfectionism, and stress. I value compassionate feedback and new perspectives as much as I value humor. Other areas of interest are parenting strategies, burn out, relationship dynamics, and communication skills.
Available mornings, early afternoons, and evenings. I enjoy working with individuals of all cultural and religious backgrounds along with those within the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am particularly interested in working alongside those who struggle with ADHD, depression, and anxiety-related issues as well as athletes seeking to improve their performance. I believe that working with clients to create an environment that helps foster growth, insight, and healing is important to help create meaningful change for clients. I look forward to working with you!
Available mornings, early afternoons, and evenings. I enjoy working with individuals of all cultural and religious backgrounds along with those within the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am particularly interested in working alongside those who struggle with ADHD, depression, and anxiety-related issues as well as athletes seeking to improve their performance. I believe that working with clients to create an environment that helps foster growth, insight, and healing is important to help create meaningful change for clients. I look forward to working with you!
Keisha Doucette
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
The unfortunate truth is that life will always present tough times and challenges. Trauma and stress do not discriminate and can be immensely impactful. It may be easier at times to repress difficult feelings and emotions, rather than face them head-on. However, what is repressed can slowly seep out into multiple areas of one's life, impacting self-esteem, relationships, ability to cope, etc. Together, we can work on your goals to enhance what you already have within you to cope, regulate, and enhance your quality of life.
The unfortunate truth is that life will always present tough times and challenges. Trauma and stress do not discriminate and can be immensely impactful. It may be easier at times to repress difficult feelings and emotions, rather than face them head-on. However, what is repressed can slowly seep out into multiple areas of one's life, impacting self-esteem, relationships, ability to cope, etc. Together, we can work on your goals to enhance what you already have within you to cope, regulate, and enhance your quality of life.
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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.