Chronic Pain Therapists in Abbotsford, BC

Photo of Elysia Bronson - Chronic Pain, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Elysia Bronson - Chronic Pain
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V3G  (Online Only)
Tailoring it to you as an individual, whether it's a recent diagnosis, daily chronic pain, chronic illness, or past trauma.
Hi there, I’m a warm, authentic, and compassionate online therapist. And I’ve specialized in working with chronic pain and trauma, because I’m able to offer a unique blend of lived experience from having navigated these challenges myself. So, I get that chronic pain and trauma can feel isolating, like you're navigating a complex maze alone. I’ve wondered that path, while juggling being a mom, student, business owner, and therapist. So know that your not alone! I've personally traversed this challenging terrain of chronic illness, and I know firsthand the emotional and physical toll it takes. That's why I'm here to listen and help.
Tailoring it to you as an individual, whether it's a recent diagnosis, daily chronic pain, chronic illness, or past trauma.
Hi there, I’m a warm, authentic, and compassionate online therapist. And I’ve specialized in working with chronic pain and trauma, because I’m able to offer a unique blend of lived experience from having navigated these challenges myself. So, I get that chronic pain and trauma can feel isolating, like you're navigating a complex maze alone. I’ve wondered that path, while juggling being a mom, student, business owner, and therapist. So know that your not alone! I've personally traversed this challenging terrain of chronic illness, and I know firsthand the emotional and physical toll it takes. That's why I'm here to listen and help.
(249) 506-0037 View (249) 506-0037
Photo of Chantel Van Vliet, MC, Counsellor
Chantel Van Vliet
Counsellor, MC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V4X
Living with chronic pain and/or chronic illness can be a debilitating and uncertain experience that not only wreaks havoc on you emotionally and physically, but can leave you feeling invalidated and invisible. It can make you feel weighed down by an array of emotions such as sadness, anger, hopelessness, or anxiety, and at other times it can make you feel not much at all, stricken by a sense of emptiness, feeling lost or stuck. You may find yourself struggling with a deep sense of grief over all of the things your condition has stolen from you.
Living with chronic pain and/or chronic illness can be a debilitating and uncertain experience that not only wreaks havoc on you emotionally and physically, but can leave you feeling invalidated and invisible. It can make you feel weighed down by an array of emotions such as sadness, anger, hopelessness, or anxiety, and at other times it can make you feel not much at all, stricken by a sense of emptiness, feeling lost or stuck. You may find yourself struggling with a deep sense of grief over all of the things your condition has stolen from you.
(902) 813-7329 View (902) 813-7329
Photo of Amanda Strider - Amanda Strider | Adult ADHD, Burnout, Self-Esteem, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Amanda Strider | Adult ADHD, Burnout, Self-Esteem
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V2T
I work with a wide range of clients, but am especially passionate about helping women navigate burnout, self-esteem challenges, life transitions, chronic pain, and ADHD.
Does it ever feel like no matter how hard you try, it's never good enough? Breaking free from perfectionism, stress, and burnout can seem overwhelming and impossible. Big life changes - like switching careers, ending a relationship, or moving into a new season of life - can leave you feeling like you're lost in a fog, searching for solid ground. The good news is, you're not alone. I'm here to walk alongside you, offering a safe and supportive space for exploration. We'll work together to cultivate self-compassion, uncover your strengths, and build resilience to help you navigate life's challenges with confidence.
I work with a wide range of clients, but am especially passionate about helping women navigate burnout, self-esteem challenges, life transitions, chronic pain, and ADHD.
Does it ever feel like no matter how hard you try, it's never good enough? Breaking free from perfectionism, stress, and burnout can seem overwhelming and impossible. Big life changes - like switching careers, ending a relationship, or moving into a new season of life - can leave you feeling like you're lost in a fog, searching for solid ground. The good news is, you're not alone. I'm here to walk alongside you, offering a safe and supportive space for exploration. We'll work together to cultivate self-compassion, uncover your strengths, and build resilience to help you navigate life's challenges with confidence.
(705) 806-8792 View (705) 806-8792
Photo of Yoko Gifford, MCP-AT, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Yoko Gifford
Counsellor, MCP-AT, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, BC V2S
Perhaps, you’ve heard yourself say to yourself: • I’ve struggled with anxiety all my life. • I feel so overwhelmed with my emotions, I don't know what to do. • I’m tired of over-thinking. • I struggle with chronic pain, and I'm so tired of it. • I have so much built up anger. • I can see myself reacting the exact same way my parents did to me, and I want to break the cycle. You are not alone if you find yourself feeling this way. These are common painful human experiences. The truth is that we are not meant to carry pain, and I want to help carry it with you.
Perhaps, you’ve heard yourself say to yourself: • I’ve struggled with anxiety all my life. • I feel so overwhelmed with my emotions, I don't know what to do. • I’m tired of over-thinking. • I struggle with chronic pain, and I'm so tired of it. • I have so much built up anger. • I can see myself reacting the exact same way my parents did to me, and I want to break the cycle. You are not alone if you find yourself feeling this way. These are common painful human experiences. The truth is that we are not meant to carry pain, and I want to help carry it with you.
(226) 799-2149 View (226) 799-2149
Photo of Tammy (Tam) Schultz, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Tammy (Tam) Schultz
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V3G
I have extensive experience with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-harm, suicidality, trauma, abuse, and chronic illness.
As a registered clinical counsellor, I consider it a privilege and honour to walk alongside my clients on their path toward their personal goals of healing and health. I provide a non-judgmental, collaborative, and compassionate approach to therapy that allows my clients to express their personal story in a supportive environment. I believe that each person is on a journey that can be accentuated by looking forward with hope. It is my goal to help my clients incorporate hope in their experiences. As a Christian, I am sensitive to my clients faith needs through their healing journey.
I have extensive experience with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-harm, suicidality, trauma, abuse, and chronic illness.
As a registered clinical counsellor, I consider it a privilege and honour to walk alongside my clients on their path toward their personal goals of healing and health. I provide a non-judgmental, collaborative, and compassionate approach to therapy that allows my clients to express their personal story in a supportive environment. I believe that each person is on a journey that can be accentuated by looking forward with hope. It is my goal to help my clients incorporate hope in their experiences. As a Christian, I am sensitive to my clients faith needs through their healing journey.
(778) 400-7705 View (778) 400-7705
Photo of Rosemary Joan Fromson - Illuminating Counselling Services, RPC, MPCC-S, Counsellor
Illuminating Counselling Services
Counsellor, RPC, MPCC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V2T  (Online Only)
I am a competent counsellor with 24 years of experience assisting in the areas of Addiction, Sexual abuse, Violence, Grief & Loss, Chronic Illness, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships, and Family.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, loss, addiction, family dynamics? We can all feel these at one time or another in our life. Welcome and know you have just taken the first step to bettering your life. My name is Rosemary Fromson and I am a Registered Professional Counsellor, and Clinical Supervisor, Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling,. My practice is located in Abbotsford, British Columbia. Together we will plan and find strategies and methods that work for you now and in the future.
I am a competent counsellor with 24 years of experience assisting in the areas of Addiction, Sexual abuse, Violence, Grief & Loss, Chronic Illness, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships, and Family.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, loss, addiction, family dynamics? We can all feel these at one time or another in our life. Welcome and know you have just taken the first step to bettering your life. My name is Rosemary Fromson and I am a Registered Professional Counsellor, and Clinical Supervisor, Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling,. My practice is located in Abbotsford, British Columbia. Together we will plan and find strategies and methods that work for you now and in the future.
(855) 781-8929 View (855) 781-8929
Photo of Tony Lapointe - Oakhill Counselling & Mediation Services, MA, MBA, RCC, Counsellor
Oakhill Counselling & Mediation Services
Counsellor, MA, MBA, RCC
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, BC V2T
Our therapists help with a variety of presenting issues ranging from depression, anxiety, PTSD, pain management, identity, workplace issues and much more. Oakhill Counselling & Mediation Services utilizes the expertise of master level therapists registered psychologists. We have several offices conveniently located in the Fraser Valley and also offer telehealth. We're easy to find and easy to work with.
Our therapists help with a variety of presenting issues ranging from depression, anxiety, PTSD, pain management, identity, workplace issues and much more. Oakhill Counselling & Mediation Services utilizes the expertise of master level therapists registered psychologists. We have several offices conveniently located in the Fraser Valley and also offer telehealth. We're easy to find and easy to work with.
(778) 764-2364 View (778) 764-2364
Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, BC V2T  (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.
(778) 764-1132 View (778) 764-1132
Photo of Ginna Abramovitch, MA, RCC-ACS, Counsellor
Ginna Abramovitch
Counsellor, MA, RCC-ACS
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, BC V3G
Are you looking for support for yourself, your family, your relationship, or your child/children? You may be certain of what you need or just have a sense of being unwell. We can work through worries and fears, low mood, anger and irritability, fatigue, poor focus, disrupted sleep (including insomnia and nightmares), life stressors and more. If you know (or suspect) that you struggle with anxiety, depression, substance use or mental illness, we can work together to meet your needs. We can tackle grief, loss and trauma, in a way that is structured (contained), at your pace and when you feel safe to do so.
Are you looking for support for yourself, your family, your relationship, or your child/children? You may be certain of what you need or just have a sense of being unwell. We can work through worries and fears, low mood, anger and irritability, fatigue, poor focus, disrupted sleep (including insomnia and nightmares), life stressors and more. If you know (or suspect) that you struggle with anxiety, depression, substance use or mental illness, we can work together to meet your needs. We can tackle grief, loss and trauma, in a way that is structured (contained), at your pace and when you feel safe to do so.
(236) 900-4157 View (236) 900-4157
Photo of Chelsea Stenner, MA, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Chelsea Stenner
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V2S
My clinical interests are helping people through depression and anxiety, religious trauma, chronic illness & pain, grief & loss, relationship issues, developmental/relational trauma, sexuality, identity and meaning.
A common misconception is that you need to hit "rock bottom" before you decide to seek counselling. There are numerous reasons why a person may choose to speak with a qualified professional; everything from taking preventative measures to addressing a full-blown crisis. Whether you're in a season of life where you're looking for insight, needing some guidance in making a shift or transition, wanting to change but not being sure how, hurting badly and feeling hopeless, carrying a burden of past traumas and memories, or in a crisis and you've reached your limit - counselling can help.
My clinical interests are helping people through depression and anxiety, religious trauma, chronic illness & pain, grief & loss, relationship issues, developmental/relational trauma, sexuality, identity and meaning.
A common misconception is that you need to hit "rock bottom" before you decide to seek counselling. There are numerous reasons why a person may choose to speak with a qualified professional; everything from taking preventative measures to addressing a full-blown crisis. Whether you're in a season of life where you're looking for insight, needing some guidance in making a shift or transition, wanting to change but not being sure how, hurting badly and feeling hopeless, carrying a burden of past traumas and memories, or in a crisis and you've reached your limit - counselling can help.
(778) 765-3316 View (778) 765-3316
Photo of Jessica Banert, RCC, CCC, MA, Counsellor
Jessica Banert
Counsellor, RCC, CCC, MA
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, BC V2T  (Online Only)
First, my gratitude for your curiosity about my work. The foundation for all of my work is from a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and anti-oppressive lens. I have had the honour of working with a wide range of people who seek to navigate through challenges such as childhood trauma, sexual abuse/violence, grief, intimacy issues, anxiety, and chronic pain. I have witnessed the often beautiful and life-shifting, but complex journey of navigating such issues and the courage it takes to do so. I aim to create a space where this vulnerability is met with compassion, safety, support, and a guiding hand if you feel you need it.
First, my gratitude for your curiosity about my work. The foundation for all of my work is from a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and anti-oppressive lens. I have had the honour of working with a wide range of people who seek to navigate through challenges such as childhood trauma, sexual abuse/violence, grief, intimacy issues, anxiety, and chronic pain. I have witnessed the often beautiful and life-shifting, but complex journey of navigating such issues and the courage it takes to do so. I aim to create a space where this vulnerability is met with compassion, safety, support, and a guiding hand if you feel you need it.
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Photo of Amber Mercer - Relate & Reflect Counselling, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Relate & Reflect Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, BC V2S
As a fellow human being, I am intimately acquainted with my own experiences of pain. As a therapist, my heart is devoted to accompanying others on their journey so that they may not have to navigate their pain alone, understanding that suffering is often compounded when endured in isolation. At the core, human beings long for connection. We yearn to feel secure, to be seen, heard, loved, valued and accepted. When these fundamental needs go unmet we can experience an ache that feels unbearable. Our resilience allows us to bounce back, but not without bearing the scars of what it took to survive.
As a fellow human being, I am intimately acquainted with my own experiences of pain. As a therapist, my heart is devoted to accompanying others on their journey so that they may not have to navigate their pain alone, understanding that suffering is often compounded when endured in isolation. At the core, human beings long for connection. We yearn to feel secure, to be seen, heard, loved, valued and accepted. When these fundamental needs go unmet we can experience an ache that feels unbearable. Our resilience allows us to bounce back, but not without bearing the scars of what it took to survive.
(867) 457-5559 View (867) 457-5559
Photo of Tiana Soares, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Tiana Soares
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V2S
My primary focus areas are couples counselling, children and youth, mediation, anxiety, LGBTQIA+, family counselling, chronic pain and traumatic brain injury, and neurodivergency.
Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light- Albus Dumbledore. I like to implement a client-centered approach whereby I take my years of experience and training to adjust a therapeutic approach to best suit each one of my clients. I have eight years of experience working with children and families with special needs, including children diagnosed with Autism, OCD, ADD, FSD, Conduct Disorder, Depression, Pain Disorders, Neurodivergency, Brain Injuries, and Anxiety.
My primary focus areas are couples counselling, children and youth, mediation, anxiety, LGBTQIA+, family counselling, chronic pain and traumatic brain injury, and neurodivergency.
Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light- Albus Dumbledore. I like to implement a client-centered approach whereby I take my years of experience and training to adjust a therapeutic approach to best suit each one of my clients. I have eight years of experience working with children and families with special needs, including children diagnosed with Autism, OCD, ADD, FSD, Conduct Disorder, Depression, Pain Disorders, Neurodivergency, Brain Injuries, and Anxiety.
(867) 794-0481 View (867) 794-0481
Photo of Kristy Zulyniak, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kristy Zulyniak
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, BC V2T
Whether you are navigating stress, relationship challenges, trauma, chronic illness, or seeking personal growth, I am here to provide supportive guidance. I commit to creating a safe and non-judgmental space to openly explore your thoughts and feelings and discuss the issues that are important to you. My approach is warm, empathetic, and collaborative. I believe in focusing on possibilities, not problems. Through our work together, we will set meaningful goals and identify strategies and strengths, moving toward your desired change.
Whether you are navigating stress, relationship challenges, trauma, chronic illness, or seeking personal growth, I am here to provide supportive guidance. I commit to creating a safe and non-judgmental space to openly explore your thoughts and feelings and discuss the issues that are important to you. My approach is warm, empathetic, and collaborative. I believe in focusing on possibilities, not problems. Through our work together, we will set meaningful goals and identify strategies and strengths, moving toward your desired change.
(604) 532-5340 View (604) 532-5340
Photo of Ana-Maria Comia, RTC, DVATI, Art Therapist
Ana-Maria Comia
Art Therapist, RTC, DVATI
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, BC V2S
I am passionate about helping my clients find their voice through artistic expression and transforming their pain and trauma into something capable of supporting growth and a meaningful future.
Whether you are re-taking control of your life and starting over or you are looking to set time aside for your mental wellbeing, Art Therapy can help. Art Therapy is widely used as an auxiliary treatment for depression, illness and chronic pain, addiction and trauma. Children and Youth particularly respond well to Art Therapy as it offers a less confrontational approach to counselling . I have experience working with children and youth with various challenges stemming from parental separation, anxiety disorders, grief and loss and especially difficulties with social inclusion and feeling outcasted.
I am passionate about helping my clients find their voice through artistic expression and transforming their pain and trauma into something capable of supporting growth and a meaningful future.
Whether you are re-taking control of your life and starting over or you are looking to set time aside for your mental wellbeing, Art Therapy can help. Art Therapy is widely used as an auxiliary treatment for depression, illness and chronic pain, addiction and trauma. Children and Youth particularly respond well to Art Therapy as it offers a less confrontational approach to counselling . I have experience working with children and youth with various challenges stemming from parental separation, anxiety disorders, grief and loss and especially difficulties with social inclusion and feeling outcasted.
(604) 532-5340 View (604) 532-5340
Photo of Melanie Gaudet, RN, RCC, MACP, Counsellor
Melanie Gaudet
Counsellor, RN, RCC, MACP
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, BC V2T
I believe that pain is an inevitable part of life, but suffering is not.
Hello! I am here to support you in becoming the truest, healthiest version of yourself. I use a gentle, compassionate approach to guide you towards deep self-reflection and growth. Seeking help takes courage and I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to support you in your journey. I draw from a variety of approaches, and will work together with you to find a treatment plan that is unique to you.
I believe that pain is an inevitable part of life, but suffering is not.
Hello! I am here to support you in becoming the truest, healthiest version of yourself. I use a gentle, compassionate approach to guide you towards deep self-reflection and growth. Seeking help takes courage and I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to support you in your journey. I draw from a variety of approaches, and will work together with you to find a treatment plan that is unique to you.
(867) 988-4240 View (867) 988-4240
Photo of Tanya Tomsic - Epiphany Counselling, MACP, Counsellor
Epiphany Counselling
Counsellor, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V4X  (Online Only)
Preferring a client-centered approach, I am flexible with the modalities used in my counselling practice and can tailor the session structure to suit my client's needs. I frequently offer support in areas of anxiety, caregiver burnout, self-esteem, trauma and grief & loss. Whatever you may be going through, my job is to offer you support, education, and practical skills to help you progress from surviving and coping to thriving. I believe my clients are the experts of their own experience; my role is to help you navigate towards those "Aha!" moments.
Preferring a client-centered approach, I am flexible with the modalities used in my counselling practice and can tailor the session structure to suit my client's needs. I frequently offer support in areas of anxiety, caregiver burnout, self-esteem, trauma and grief & loss. Whatever you may be going through, my job is to offer you support, education, and practical skills to help you progress from surviving and coping to thriving. I believe my clients are the experts of their own experience; my role is to help you navigate towards those "Aha!" moments.
(825) 485-4292 View (825) 485-4292
Photo of Amrit Singh Sidhu, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Amrit Singh Sidhu
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V2T
Hi, my name is Amrit. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I use a motivational, Cognitive Behavioural, goal-setting approach. In other words, I work with my clients by guiding and helping them gain confidence and new ways of thinking that will enable them to find their strengths and achieve their goals. My counselling services are fully confidential, non-judgmental, and safe for all clients ranging from youth to elderly, female and male. Sessions empathize with client accomplishments, self-care, and mindfulness.
Hi, my name is Amrit. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I use a motivational, Cognitive Behavioural, goal-setting approach. In other words, I work with my clients by guiding and helping them gain confidence and new ways of thinking that will enable them to find their strengths and achieve their goals. My counselling services are fully confidential, non-judgmental, and safe for all clients ranging from youth to elderly, female and male. Sessions empathize with client accomplishments, self-care, and mindfulness.
(672) 906-1035 View (672) 906-1035
Photo of Jamie Elaine Gazlay, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Elaine Gazlay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V2S
Each of us hold the answers and the strength needed to navigate even the most difficult circumstances. Still, we may benefit from support in uncovering this inner strength and the solutions within it. I work with adults, youth and families to address traumas still held in the body/mind, anxiety, depression, self-discovery and relationships. My passion is working with families. I focus on the power of emotion and attachment and their role in the well being of families and the emotional development of children. My goal will be to support you in building healthier relationships that can survive difficult experiences in the future.
Each of us hold the answers and the strength needed to navigate even the most difficult circumstances. Still, we may benefit from support in uncovering this inner strength and the solutions within it. I work with adults, youth and families to address traumas still held in the body/mind, anxiety, depression, self-discovery and relationships. My passion is working with families. I focus on the power of emotion and attachment and their role in the well being of families and the emotional development of children. My goal will be to support you in building healthier relationships that can survive difficult experiences in the future.
(604) 670-2561 View (604) 670-2561
Photo of Jasleen Grewal, MACP, BKin, Counsellor
Jasleen Grewal
Counsellor, MACP, BKin
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V2S
Emotional regulation is single handedly one of the most impactful ways to improve your quality of life. From day to day struggles, to memories from the past which come up repeatedly to nag at you, the ability to be able to accept, acknowledge, and move forward with emotions will change your entire sense of being. This translates into goals at work, physical health in the gym, social wellbeing with friends/family and so much more. Regain your sense of self, and observe the world around you change.
Emotional regulation is single handedly one of the most impactful ways to improve your quality of life. From day to day struggles, to memories from the past which come up repeatedly to nag at you, the ability to be able to accept, acknowledge, and move forward with emotions will change your entire sense of being. This translates into goals at work, physical health in the gym, social wellbeing with friends/family and so much more. Regain your sense of self, and observe the world around you change.
(782) 824-4091 View (782) 824-4091
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See more therapy options for Abbotsford

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.