Chronic Pain Therapists in St John's, NL

Photo of Leah B. Lewis - Coastal Health NL, PhD, MEd, RDT, CCC, Counsellor
Coastal Health NL
Counsellor, PhD, MEd, RDT, CCC
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1A
If there's one experience that is guaranteed, it's change. Change comes in many forms; accomplishment, loss, crisis. Sometimes we lead change in our lives, sometimes we're forced to follow it - kicking and screaming. Coastal Health Inc. Is a multi-practitioner, allied health, practice. We work collaboratively and emphasize a comprehensive service access to our clients. Our team are all graduate and doctoral trained therapists, specializing in multiple areas, including (but not limited to); Chronic illness, grief, trans support for individuals and families, family issues, couple issues, depression and anxiety, identity and career etc
If there's one experience that is guaranteed, it's change. Change comes in many forms; accomplishment, loss, crisis. Sometimes we lead change in our lives, sometimes we're forced to follow it - kicking and screaming. Coastal Health Inc. Is a multi-practitioner, allied health, practice. We work collaboratively and emphasize a comprehensive service access to our clients. Our team are all graduate and doctoral trained therapists, specializing in multiple areas, including (but not limited to); Chronic illness, grief, trans support for individuals and families, family issues, couple issues, depression and anxiety, identity and career etc
(709) 400-8664 View (709) 400-8664
Photo of Noelle Hansen, BA, MA, DMD, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Noelle Hansen
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA, DMD
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1A  (Online Only)
She was a dentist with a development neuroscience background and expertise in chronic pain and sleep issues until she was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition and retired from the more literally gory side of treating pain and trauma.
For many years, the people who have ended up in Noelle's care are folks who have been harmed by the healthcare and educational systems. Invalidation, medical gaslighting, lack of services, long wait times, it can all add up to a pretty brutal experience where you are left feeling like no one understands or cares. Life can be a jerk to those of us who feel "different" due to pain, health issues, neurodivergence, etc. If this has been your experience, you need the right kind of support.
She was a dentist with a development neuroscience background and expertise in chronic pain and sleep issues until she was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition and retired from the more literally gory side of treating pain and trauma.
For many years, the people who have ended up in Noelle's care are folks who have been harmed by the healthcare and educational systems. Invalidation, medical gaslighting, lack of services, long wait times, it can all add up to a pretty brutal experience where you are left feeling like no one understands or cares. Life can be a jerk to those of us who feel "different" due to pain, health issues, neurodivergence, etc. If this has been your experience, you need the right kind of support.
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Photo of Jenell Lynn - Deep Roots Counselling and Wellness, APC, MACP, BA, BSc, Counsellor
Deep Roots Counselling and Wellness
Counsellor, APC, MACP, BA, BSc
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1A
I work with youth and adults who have mood disorders, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, those dealing with trauma and crisis, and those at end of life and their families.
My name is Jenell and I'm an Associate Professional Counsellor (APC) offering compassion based counselling and therapy that focuses on healing, restoration, and achieving wellness. Working from a strengths based approach, there is an understanding that each person has strength and capabilities within them to achieve health and wellness. I use an integrative and person-centered model that includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems, Brainspotting, DBT, ACT, and Talk Therapy.
I work with youth and adults who have mood disorders, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, those dealing with trauma and crisis, and those at end of life and their families.
My name is Jenell and I'm an Associate Professional Counsellor (APC) offering compassion based counselling and therapy that focuses on healing, restoration, and achieving wellness. Working from a strengths based approach, there is an understanding that each person has strength and capabilities within them to achieve health and wellness. I use an integrative and person-centered model that includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems, Brainspotting, DBT, ACT, and Talk Therapy.
(204) 900-5880 View (204) 900-5880
Photo of Megan Muckler, MA, CT, CCC, Counsellor
Megan Muckler
Counsellor, MA, CT, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St John's, NL A1A  (Online Only)
I also assist individuals in coping and learning to live with chronic pain utilizing an educational and strength based approach.
I work from a person-centered lens, focusing on building a strong therapeutic alliance and offering an empathetic ear; pointing out where you may not be living congruently between who you are and who you want to be, gently encouraging change or self acceptance. With me you will find a therapist whose style is gently challenging, balanced with a sense of humor, patience, and non-judgmental understanding.
I also assist individuals in coping and learning to live with chronic pain utilizing an educational and strength based approach.
I work from a person-centered lens, focusing on building a strong therapeutic alliance and offering an empathetic ear; pointing out where you may not be living congruently between who you are and who you want to be, gently encouraging change or self acceptance. With me you will find a therapist whose style is gently challenging, balanced with a sense of humor, patience, and non-judgmental understanding.
(902) 394-4998 View (902) 394-4998
Photo of Rose Linstead, ND, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rose Linstead
Pre-Licensed Professional, ND
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1E
My hope is that you can be free from your pain so you can let go of the patterns that no longer serve you and have a deeper level of self-understanding, healing and authenticity.
Asking for help can be one of the hardest things to do - I’m glad you are making that first step! My therapy room is a safe and accepting space where there is no agenda to change or "cure" you. It is to see you, as you are. My goal is that you feel seen and understood. Many clients come to me describing themselves as depressed, overwhelmed, stressed, stuck or anxious. Most are surprised that I don't try to ’get rid' of these symptoms, but that every part is welcome and has an important story to share. Through mindfulness we bring awareness to these feelings, to understand and embrace them to enable healing at a deeper level.
My hope is that you can be free from your pain so you can let go of the patterns that no longer serve you and have a deeper level of self-understanding, healing and authenticity.
Asking for help can be one of the hardest things to do - I’m glad you are making that first step! My therapy room is a safe and accepting space where there is no agenda to change or "cure" you. It is to see you, as you are. My goal is that you feel seen and understood. Many clients come to me describing themselves as depressed, overwhelmed, stressed, stuck or anxious. Most are surprised that I don't try to ’get rid' of these symptoms, but that every part is welcome and has an important story to share. Through mindfulness we bring awareness to these feelings, to understand and embrace them to enable healing at a deeper level.
(709) 701-8668 View (709) 701-8668
Photo of Brittany Flood - Lucid Counselling, BSc, GradD, MA, Counsellor
Lucid Counselling
Counsellor, BSc, GradD, MA
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1C  (Online Only)
Clients that are most likely to flourish under my care are those struggling with emotional regulation, negative self-image, depressed mood especially due to feeling lost or purposeless, anxiety, chronic pain, those going through a major life event or crisis, those seeking 2slgbtqia+ guidance, or those who simply wish to deepen their fulfillment in life. My ability to adapt my approach to the client’s needs or personality has been identified as one of my biggest strengths.
Clients that are most likely to flourish under my care are those struggling with emotional regulation, negative self-image, depressed mood especially due to feeling lost or purposeless, anxiety, chronic pain, those going through a major life event or crisis, those seeking 2slgbtqia+ guidance, or those who simply wish to deepen their fulfillment in life. My ability to adapt my approach to the client’s needs or personality has been identified as one of my biggest strengths.
(709) 701-8683 View (709) 701-8683
Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1C  (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.
(709) 300-1240 View (709) 300-1240
Photo of Trevor Day, MSW, RSW
Trevor Day
Master Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1E
Mental health/addictions – Coping as a first responder - Family dynamics related to mantal health and addictions - Coping with chronic pain and other health issues - Navigating the health/mental health system.
Trevor brings over twenty years of experience working in the mental health and addiction field. Trevor’s down to earth approach creates a safe environment to build therapeutic relationship to develop realistic goals and make meaningful change. Trevor’s practice incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (C.B.T.), Emotion Focused Therapy (E.F.T), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (A.C.T.) and other therapeutic modalities through a trauma informed lens.
Mental health/addictions – Coping as a first responder - Family dynamics related to mantal health and addictions - Coping with chronic pain and other health issues - Navigating the health/mental health system.
Trevor brings over twenty years of experience working in the mental health and addiction field. Trevor’s down to earth approach creates a safe environment to build therapeutic relationship to develop realistic goals and make meaningful change. Trevor’s practice incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (C.B.T.), Emotion Focused Therapy (E.F.T), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (A.C.T.) and other therapeutic modalities through a trauma informed lens.
(709) 300-1904 View (709) 300-1904
Photo of Arlene M Penney, BA,BSW, MSW,RSW, RP,ND, SEP, Registered Social Worker
Arlene M Penney
Registered Social Worker, BA,BSW, MSW,RSW, RP,ND, SEP
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1B
Waitlist for new clients
Are you ready to transform your life in a totally different way that creates lasting healing? I am an experienced Clinical Social Worker, Naturopath & Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) who combines traditional, alternative and complementary therapies with a focus on Somatic Experiencing (SE). Develped by Dr. Peter Levine, SE is gentle, powerful & scientifically informed. It aims to resolve symptoms of stress, emotional pain, & trauma, including PTSD & other painful life events that accumulate in our bodies & nervous systems that include anxiety, depression, grief, developmental attachment trauma, guilt, shame & physical pain.
Are you ready to transform your life in a totally different way that creates lasting healing? I am an experienced Clinical Social Worker, Naturopath & Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) who combines traditional, alternative and complementary therapies with a focus on Somatic Experiencing (SE). Develped by Dr. Peter Levine, SE is gentle, powerful & scientifically informed. It aims to resolve symptoms of stress, emotional pain, & trauma, including PTSD & other painful life events that accumulate in our bodies & nervous systems that include anxiety, depression, grief, developmental attachment trauma, guilt, shame & physical pain.
(709) 704-4229 View (709) 704-4229
Photo of Amanda Devlin, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Devlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1H  (Online Only)
You may be experiencing grief, facing the end-of-life journey or a serious illness, or you may be feeling the heavy weight of caring for someone you love.
I'm a First Nations social worker with over 16 years of experience helping people in rural, remote, and urban communities. I've worked in health, in education, and in the nonprofit sector. I've supported people of all ages through times of profound loss, illness, trauma, and other mental health challenges. I have specialized training, lived experience, and expertise that allows me to provide comprehensive and effective therapeutic care. My special interests are in the areas of aging, end-of-life, caregiver stress/burnout, as well as grief and loss.
You may be experiencing grief, facing the end-of-life journey or a serious illness, or you may be feeling the heavy weight of caring for someone you love.
I'm a First Nations social worker with over 16 years of experience helping people in rural, remote, and urban communities. I've worked in health, in education, and in the nonprofit sector. I've supported people of all ages through times of profound loss, illness, trauma, and other mental health challenges. I have specialized training, lived experience, and expertise that allows me to provide comprehensive and effective therapeutic care. My special interests are in the areas of aging, end-of-life, caregiver stress/burnout, as well as grief and loss.
(709) 499-0461 View (709) 499-0461
Photo of Karin Klassen - DBT Karin Klassen R Psych, MSc, MPhil, Psychologist
DBT Karin Klassen R Psych
Psychologist, MSc, MPhil
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1E  (Online Only)
The focus of my practice is to treat people who have emotional dysregulation - stress! This can be due to a mood or personality disorder, chronic pain, trauma or complex trauma, military service, or a major life transition. I use practical, evidence based therapies such as DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Clinical Hypnosis, and CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) to help you fulfill your goals, getting back to living a meaningful, peaceful, productive life. One focus of my practice is treating current military members and veterans.
The focus of my practice is to treat people who have emotional dysregulation - stress! This can be due to a mood or personality disorder, chronic pain, trauma or complex trauma, military service, or a major life transition. I use practical, evidence based therapies such as DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Clinical Hypnosis, and CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) to help you fulfill your goals, getting back to living a meaningful, peaceful, productive life. One focus of my practice is treating current military members and veterans.
(902) 809-7792 View (902) 809-7792
Photo of Sabrina Batt, BSW, MC, RSW, CCC, Registered Social Worker
Sabrina Batt
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MC, RSW, CCC
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1A
Waitlist for new clients
If you need support, a safe place, and have the desire to challenge the parts of your life that are not working for you, I would love to hear from you. I help people understand and change what is stopping them from living the life they want. This can include mental health issues, challenging life transitions, trauma, and unhealthy relationships with themselves and others. I specialize in Post-Concussion Syndrome and chronic pain, I help clients gain understanding and confidence so they can navigate the physical, emotional, relational, sleep, and cognitive impacts of PCS and pain.
If you need support, a safe place, and have the desire to challenge the parts of your life that are not working for you, I would love to hear from you. I help people understand and change what is stopping them from living the life they want. This can include mental health issues, challenging life transitions, trauma, and unhealthy relationships with themselves and others. I specialize in Post-Concussion Syndrome and chronic pain, I help clients gain understanding and confidence so they can navigate the physical, emotional, relational, sleep, and cognitive impacts of PCS and pain.
(709) 700-1474 View (709) 700-1474
Photo of Bonnie Hancock-Moore, BACS, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Bonnie Hancock-Moore
Registered Social Worker, BACS, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1A  (Online Only)
Recovery is Possible! Many people live everyday of their lives with mental illness or addiction.
Hello, thank you for taking the time to look for the right Counsellor- ME! LOL! Finding a Counsellor who is warm, kind, humorous and inviting will help you open up. We can talk about whatever is troubling you and stealing peace in your life. We can find solutions, a plan and goals in helping you move forward or recover. Sometimes clients have mental illness, relationship or personal problems that are stopping them from leading the best life possible. My work is to help you find out what the problem is and to find out what supports and strengths you already have and used in the past. Together we will explore solutions.
Recovery is Possible! Many people live everyday of their lives with mental illness or addiction.
Hello, thank you for taking the time to look for the right Counsellor- ME! LOL! Finding a Counsellor who is warm, kind, humorous and inviting will help you open up. We can talk about whatever is troubling you and stealing peace in your life. We can find solutions, a plan and goals in helping you move forward or recover. Sometimes clients have mental illness, relationship or personal problems that are stopping them from leading the best life possible. My work is to help you find out what the problem is and to find out what supports and strengths you already have and used in the past. Together we will explore solutions.
(709) 400-2801 View (709) 400-2801
Photo of Nichola Taylor, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Nichola Taylor
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1A
Recognizing that pain is an inevitable part of every human life, I am deeply honoured to be present for my clients- offering support and skills as they make choices and grow in ways that are in-keeping with their own values and goals.
With over 20 years of experience working with individuals and groups, I am passionate and experienced in building strong, nurturing relationships with my clients as we sort through life's challenges together. Particular areas of interest and expertise include stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, women’s issues, relationship issues, life transitions and personal growth. While some clients prefer short-term, highly structured sessions, others prefer a more longstanding, fluid relationship to support them through life's ups and downs. I am open to discussing all options and believe that flexibility and a sense of humour go a long way!
Recognizing that pain is an inevitable part of every human life, I am deeply honoured to be present for my clients- offering support and skills as they make choices and grow in ways that are in-keeping with their own values and goals.
With over 20 years of experience working with individuals and groups, I am passionate and experienced in building strong, nurturing relationships with my clients as we sort through life's challenges together. Particular areas of interest and expertise include stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, women’s issues, relationship issues, life transitions and personal growth. While some clients prefer short-term, highly structured sessions, others prefer a more longstanding, fluid relationship to support them through life's ups and downs. I am open to discussing all options and believe that flexibility and a sense of humour go a long way!
(226) 286-0479 View (226) 286-0479
Photo of Emily Lewis, MSc MBI, ND
Emily Lewis
MSc MBI, ND
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
St John's, NL A1E
Have you ever driven home from work and ended up in the drive way with no idea how you got there? Thinking the same thoughts over and over and not been able to get to sleep? Reacted by saying things you wish you hadn’t? Yep, we’ve all been there. Through learning evidence-based mindfulness exercises, my clients learn how to re-wire their brains, change their inner dialogue, and create more space in their lives. Mindfulness training can be therapeutic, however it differs from therapy; we learn how to let go of our usual thinking, story-telling, and analyzing modes by exploring what is actually here right now.
Have you ever driven home from work and ended up in the drive way with no idea how you got there? Thinking the same thoughts over and over and not been able to get to sleep? Reacted by saying things you wish you hadn’t? Yep, we’ve all been there. Through learning evidence-based mindfulness exercises, my clients learn how to re-wire their brains, change their inner dialogue, and create more space in their lives. Mindfulness training can be therapeutic, however it differs from therapy; we learn how to let go of our usual thinking, story-telling, and analyzing modes by exploring what is actually here right now.
(709) 300-2144 View (709) 300-2144
Photo of Michelle Noftall, CCC, Counsellor
Michelle Noftall
Counsellor, CCC
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1E
The changes we go through in life can leave us questioning our ability to cope, who we are, what we want, and how we can move forward. Navigating transition is easier said than done, but with the right support, it's possible.
The changes we go through in life can leave us questioning our ability to cope, who we are, what we want, and how we can move forward. Navigating transition is easier said than done, but with the right support, it's possible.
(709) 733-2256 View (709) 733-2256
Photo of Jessica Simms, BA, BEd, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Jessica Simms
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, BEd, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
St John's, NL A1A  (Online Only)
Life can quickly become so busy that everyday interactions become overwhelming obstacles, impacting your life in ways you may not even realize. I work to create a safe, non judgemental space where you can explore these issues and more, while learning how changes to your thoughts, actions, and feelings, can have a significant impact on your wellbeing. I also support your ability to tune into the present, exploring your felt senses as messages that your body is communicating to you. In this way, you regain control over things that could otherwise feel impossible.
Life can quickly become so busy that everyday interactions become overwhelming obstacles, impacting your life in ways you may not even realize. I work to create a safe, non judgemental space where you can explore these issues and more, while learning how changes to your thoughts, actions, and feelings, can have a significant impact on your wellbeing. I also support your ability to tune into the present, exploring your felt senses as messages that your body is communicating to you. In this way, you regain control over things that could otherwise feel impossible.
(289) 302-6858 View (289) 302-6858
Photo of Claire LeDrew, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Claire LeDrew
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1A
Hello, I’m Claire (she/her)! I am a registered social worker (MSW, RSW) who is passionate about creating a safer space to support you on your wellness journey, whatever that may look like for you. I value the importance of creating a welcoming, non-judgmental, trauma-informed and strengths-focused environment to support you where you are. I have experience working with individuals who are navigating challenges related to anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, interpersonal relationships, emotional regulation, career exploration, ADHD, (dis)ability and social issues.
Hello, I’m Claire (she/her)! I am a registered social worker (MSW, RSW) who is passionate about creating a safer space to support you on your wellness journey, whatever that may look like for you. I value the importance of creating a welcoming, non-judgmental, trauma-informed and strengths-focused environment to support you where you are. I have experience working with individuals who are navigating challenges related to anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, interpersonal relationships, emotional regulation, career exploration, ADHD, (dis)ability and social issues.
(709) 700-3232 View (709) 700-3232
Photo of Christine Riggs, BA, BscOT, MACP, OT(R)NL, CCC, Counsellor
Christine Riggs
Counsellor, BA, BscOT, MACP, OT(R)NL, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St John's, NL A1C
I have been fortunate to work in community mental health and addictions for over 29 years. I have extensive clinical experience helping adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, trauma, childhood dysfunction, emotional, physical and sexual abuse, addiction, emotion dysregulation and family/relationship challenges.
I have been fortunate to work in community mental health and addictions for over 29 years. I have extensive clinical experience helping adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, trauma, childhood dysfunction, emotional, physical and sexual abuse, addiction, emotion dysregulation and family/relationship challenges.
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Photo of Laura Parsons, BSc, MEd, DCP(c), CCC, PMH-C, Counsellor
Laura Parsons
Counsellor, BSc, MEd, DCP(c), CCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
St John's, NL A1A
Starting therapy can be overwhelming- I get it! It’s important to me that my practice is a safe and inviting space, trauma informed, and free of judgment. Come in and sit with a complementary refreshment and relax before session. We support children, teens, adults and couples. Whatever your struggle is, you don’t have to be alone. With flexible online booking and virtual therapy, Repose Wellness Collective St. John’s makes it easy to access a team of specialized Counsellors, Social Workers, Speech Language Pathologists (SLP), and Registered Psychologists offering ADHD, Autism, Learning and Behaviour Assessment.
Starting therapy can be overwhelming- I get it! It’s important to me that my practice is a safe and inviting space, trauma informed, and free of judgment. Come in and sit with a complementary refreshment and relax before session. We support children, teens, adults and couples. Whatever your struggle is, you don’t have to be alone. With flexible online booking and virtual therapy, Repose Wellness Collective St. John’s makes it easy to access a team of specialized Counsellors, Social Workers, Speech Language Pathologists (SLP), and Registered Psychologists offering ADHD, Autism, Learning and Behaviour Assessment.
(709) 910-5405 View (709) 910-5405
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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.