Chronic Pain Therapists in Lower Sackville, NS
![Photo of Adam Grady - Grady Psychological Services, MA, Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/216af505-d081-43e0-9cd2-9be3e61908b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
We offer treatment for (not limited to): Mood Disorders (Depression and other), Anxiety, Trauma, Addiction/Substance Use Disorders, Relationship Issues, Chronic Pain, Burnout, Stress, etc.
Grady Psychological Services is currently welcoming new clients! We are a multidisciplinary team consisting of Psychologists, Registered Counselling Therapists and Candidates (RCTs/RCT-Cs), an Occupational Therapist (OT), and a Registered Social Worker (RSW). We specialize in a range of mental health assessments, diagnoses, and treatments.
We offer treatment for (not limited to): Mood Disorders (Depression and other), Anxiety, Trauma, Addiction/Substance Use Disorders, Relationship Issues, Chronic Pain, Burnout, Stress, etc.
Grady Psychological Services is currently welcoming new clients! We are a multidisciplinary team consisting of Psychologists, Registered Counselling Therapists and Candidates (RCTs/RCT-Cs), an Occupational Therapist (OT), and a Registered Social Worker (RSW). We specialize in a range of mental health assessments, diagnoses, and treatments.
![Photo of Corinne Anne Sampson - Resilience Renewal Counselling Inc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99904931-62df-4fdb-8f61-7b105b33fd98/2/320x400.jpeg)
Resilience Renewal Counselling Inc
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Lower Sackville, NS B4C
I have 20 years in the field of mental health and addictions and expertise in anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma, sleep issues, body image and disordered eating, personality disorders, anger issues, self-harm, suicide, grief and loss, chronic pain and ADHD.
We will work together to explore what issues are negatively impacting on your life and proceed in the direction and pace as you determine your goals and priorities once you invite me to help guide you towards improved wellness and peace of mind.
I have 20 years in the field of mental health and addictions and expertise in anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma, sleep issues, body image and disordered eating, personality disorders, anger issues, self-harm, suicide, grief and loss, chronic pain and ADHD.
We will work together to explore what issues are negatively impacting on your life and proceed in the direction and pace as you determine your goals and priorities once you invite me to help guide you towards improved wellness and peace of mind.
![Photo of Adam W Grady, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e6cfb6c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Following my education in Montreal, I returned home to Nova Scotia, where I have been practicing in both public and private sectors of care as a registered psychologist for the last 12 years. In my practice, I strive to create a warm and collaborative space in which my clients can feel open to discuss their thoughts, feelings, and goals, safely and without judgment. I offer treatment to adults for many different psychological and psychosocial challenges, including but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression (Mood Disorders), Chronic Pain, Trauma/PTSD (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder), Addictions, Burnout, Stress and Bullying.
Following my education in Montreal, I returned home to Nova Scotia, where I have been practicing in both public and private sectors of care as a registered psychologist for the last 12 years. In my practice, I strive to create a warm and collaborative space in which my clients can feel open to discuss their thoughts, feelings, and goals, safely and without judgment. I offer treatment to adults for many different psychological and psychosocial challenges, including but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression (Mood Disorders), Chronic Pain, Trauma/PTSD (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder), Addictions, Burnout, Stress and Bullying.
![Photo of Lisa Grady, MA, RCT-C, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7af25799-a864-4f56-bcb8-e06d983c749e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Currently welcoming new clients! When working with me, you can expect an allied approach to care, where your individuality is not only respected but celebrated. I offer a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can safely and openly share your story.
Currently welcoming new clients! When working with me, you can expect an allied approach to care, where your individuality is not only respected but celebrated. I offer a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can safely and openly share your story.
![Photo of Kelly Call, RCT, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12376879-fdd5-49d4-b30b-56e025eded87/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Call
Counsellor, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lower Sackville, NS B4C
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling overwhelmed these days? Many of us are walking around stuck in a state of fight, flight, or freeze and we may not even be aware. The latest research says that the three ways we can find calm are: connection, safety, and being in the present moment. My goal as a therapist is to provide a space that makes these conditions possible. By engaging with our emotions, our mind, and our body in a safe and integrated way, we can move past "the stuckness" and find hope in places that we didn't think were there.
Feeling overwhelmed these days? Many of us are walking around stuck in a state of fight, flight, or freeze and we may not even be aware. The latest research says that the three ways we can find calm are: connection, safety, and being in the present moment. My goal as a therapist is to provide a space that makes these conditions possible. By engaging with our emotions, our mind, and our body in a safe and integrated way, we can move past "the stuckness" and find hope in places that we didn't think were there.
![Photo of Melanie Quigg, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dc92ba4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melanie Quigg
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lower Sackville, NS B4C
For many people, walking into a therapist’s office can be extremely difficult and anxiety provoking. Melanie recognizes this and is dedicated to creating a therapeutic experience that is comfortable, non-judgmental, and focused on what’s most important to you. Mel will be with you every step of the way in helping you handle all issues that life throws your way as well as meeting your therapeutic goals. Mel is currently accepting clients for in person online and phone therapy.
For many people, walking into a therapist’s office can be extremely difficult and anxiety provoking. Melanie recognizes this and is dedicated to creating a therapeutic experience that is comfortable, non-judgmental, and focused on what’s most important to you. Mel will be with you every step of the way in helping you handle all issues that life throws your way as well as meeting your therapeutic goals. Mel is currently accepting clients for in person online and phone therapy.
![Photo of Meaghan Dawn Norris, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a723beeb-b5ae-48af-a4f8-51c4a42b5fcf/1/320x400.png)
Meaghan Dawn Norris
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Lower Sackville, NS B4C (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Social Worker providing VIRTUAL individual & group therapy services to folks who are struggling with a variety of concerns, including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, grief & other mental health concerns. I work from an intersectional & trauma-informed lens & I use a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). My work is also informed by other therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), & Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)
I am a Clinical Social Worker providing VIRTUAL individual & group therapy services to folks who are struggling with a variety of concerns, including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, grief & other mental health concerns. I work from an intersectional & trauma-informed lens & I use a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). My work is also informed by other therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), & Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)
![Photo of Christine Fall Moore, RCT, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/483f5e8a-3420-42cc-a232-28e7dff262d3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Fall Moore
Counsellor, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
Lower Sackville, NS B4E
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are going through a loss of relationship, health, or another life struggle, I provide a relaxed atmosphere where you are invited to be yourself. This is your time, and I will work with you to help you get as much out of your sessions as possible. Please be sure to check with your insurance to confirm you have coverage for (RCT) Registered Counselling Therapists, usually listed under para-medical with insurances. I offer a 30% discount for the first session (for new clients/on-line format only) to explore the therapy relationship fit and to gather information .
Whether you are going through a loss of relationship, health, or another life struggle, I provide a relaxed atmosphere where you are invited to be yourself. This is your time, and I will work with you to help you get as much out of your sessions as possible. Please be sure to check with your insurance to confirm you have coverage for (RCT) Registered Counselling Therapists, usually listed under para-medical with insurances. I offer a 30% discount for the first session (for new clients/on-line format only) to explore the therapy relationship fit and to gather information .
![Photo of Lauren Marsh-Knickle - Marsh-Knickle & Associates. , PhD/Psy, MSc/MA, LMFT, MSW, MASP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/476124bd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marsh-Knickle & Associates.
Psychologist, PhD/Psy, MSc/MA, LMFT, MSW, MASP
Verified Verified
Lower Sackville, NS B4C
We are a well established practice providing confidential, sensitive, personalized psychological and counselling services for adults, teens, children, families, and couples in Nova Scotia and beyond. We provide assessment, treatment, and relapse prevention services. As we are a group of clinicians with various training we offer multiple evidence-based therapeutic techniques. Approaches include EMDR, DBT, CBT, Mindfulness, Marriage and Family Therapy (including Gottman and Systems approaches), Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Attachment Therapy, and various Trauma Based Therapies.
We are a well established practice providing confidential, sensitive, personalized psychological and counselling services for adults, teens, children, families, and couples in Nova Scotia and beyond. We provide assessment, treatment, and relapse prevention services. As we are a group of clinicians with various training we offer multiple evidence-based therapeutic techniques. Approaches include EMDR, DBT, CBT, Mindfulness, Marriage and Family Therapy (including Gottman and Systems approaches), Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Attachment Therapy, and various Trauma Based Therapies.
![Photo of Belinda Seagram - Seagram & Associates, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/496f9ff3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The seeds of change live in all of us. And with the right support, you’d be surprised at how quickly change can happen. At Seagram & Associates, we empower our clients with the support and tools they need to enrich their lives, improve their mental health and inspire growth and development – in life, in work, and in relationships. We believe in our clients and in their capacity to create meaningful change in their lives. We believe that good mental health and wellness are achievable for everyone. And no matter what challenges our clients face, we believe we can help.
The seeds of change live in all of us. And with the right support, you’d be surprised at how quickly change can happen. At Seagram & Associates, we empower our clients with the support and tools they need to enrich their lives, improve their mental health and inspire growth and development – in life, in work, and in relationships. We believe in our clients and in their capacity to create meaningful change in their lives. We believe that good mental health and wellness are achievable for everyone. And no matter what challenges our clients face, we believe we can help.
![Photo of Robyn Smith, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c42d6397-818c-407d-b074-b6c5c154022e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide holistic psychotherapy and wellness counselling to individuals and couples (18 y/o and up). I recognize that working through difficult life circumstances and/or challenging relationships can be stressful and isolating, resulting in feelings of anxiety, low mood, poor coping skills or a general sense of being stuck in a cycle of unhealthy patterns. To move forward, it’s important to honour our lived experiences, accept that deeper emotions are appropriate in certain situations and build trust in ourselves to know the difference.
I provide holistic psychotherapy and wellness counselling to individuals and couples (18 y/o and up). I recognize that working through difficult life circumstances and/or challenging relationships can be stressful and isolating, resulting in feelings of anxiety, low mood, poor coping skills or a general sense of being stuck in a cycle of unhealthy patterns. To move forward, it’s important to honour our lived experiences, accept that deeper emotions are appropriate in certain situations and build trust in ourselves to know the difference.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Andrea Ennis - Dartmouth Psychological Services Inc., MSc, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b26dfbf-e24c-4d71-9cec-32533753f911/1/320x400.jpeg)
Reaching out for help is not easy, especially when it requires revealing emotional or psychological pain.
Dartmouth Psychological Services Inc. is a team of collaborative and caring practitioners who have been providing evidence-based mental health services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families in the HRM for over 20 years. Formerly Jacqueline Milner-Clerk & Associates, DPS now works collaboratively with Jacqueline's Breathe Mindfulness Centre, which specializes in offering mindfulness and compassion-based classes, workshops and group programs.
Reaching out for help is not easy, especially when it requires revealing emotional or psychological pain.
Dartmouth Psychological Services Inc. is a team of collaborative and caring practitioners who have been providing evidence-based mental health services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families in the HRM for over 20 years. Formerly Jacqueline Milner-Clerk & Associates, DPS now works collaboratively with Jacqueline's Breathe Mindfulness Centre, which specializes in offering mindfulness and compassion-based classes, workshops and group programs.
![Photo of Kelsey Chiasson, MACP, RCT-C, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5aff9076-4068-4333-9c57-9ec12a5a65e7/2/320x400.jpeg)
My therapeutic areas of interest include anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, burnout, and grief.
Welcome/ Bienvenue! I recognize that reaching out for help can be frightening; my role as a therapist is to provide you with a space to explore your challenges at your own pace. In my practice, I work with individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and lived experiences by providing client-centred counselling services to individuals (18+) and couples. With my own lived experience and theoretical background, I aim to create a welcoming environment for individuals to explore the complexities and stressors of daily life while also navigating the rigorous roads of trauma.
My therapeutic areas of interest include anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, burnout, and grief.
Welcome/ Bienvenue! I recognize that reaching out for help can be frightening; my role as a therapist is to provide you with a space to explore your challenges at your own pace. In my practice, I work with individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and lived experiences by providing client-centred counselling services to individuals (18+) and couples. With my own lived experience and theoretical background, I aim to create a welcoming environment for individuals to explore the complexities and stressors of daily life while also navigating the rigorous roads of trauma.
![Photo of Elizabeth Berlasso, MEd, NSRCT, SEP, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/959d388d-85cb-4326-9d8c-ecd79f6971d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have a wait list for new clients. Online appointments are available on Tuesdays and Thursday mornings. My approach to therapy is rooted in the view that people have an inherent capacity for healthiness. I will work with you to uncover that wellbeing again so that you can live the life you deserve with more vitality and authenticity whether you suffer from chronic illness, the burden of a traumatic injury or complex trauma, a diagnosis of PTSD, anxiety, depression, unprocessed grief, or the malaise that comes from being over-stressed and not coping as well as you'd like.
I have a wait list for new clients. Online appointments are available on Tuesdays and Thursday mornings. My approach to therapy is rooted in the view that people have an inherent capacity for healthiness. I will work with you to uncover that wellbeing again so that you can live the life you deserve with more vitality and authenticity whether you suffer from chronic illness, the burden of a traumatic injury or complex trauma, a diagnosis of PTSD, anxiety, depression, unprocessed grief, or the malaise that comes from being over-stressed and not coping as well as you'd like.
![Photo of Karin Klassen - DBT Karin Klassen R. Psych, MSc, MPhil, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2482ac96-3533-4194-89ef-0ea9d91e3fae/1/320x400.jpeg)
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, 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, 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.
![Photo of Brett Richardson, MEd, CCC, RCC, RCT, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fe9c450-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ communities; with substance use and addiction concerns; and with people affected by loss, illness and trauma.
I draw on the commonalities that exist between therapeutic approaches, and am aligned with anti-oppression perspectives. I utilize deep, introspective practices and pragmatic, solution-oriented practices to help clients cultivate greater self-compassion; achieve greater effectiveness in their relationships and communities; and grow towards deeper fulfillment in their lives. I am also able to offer a truly holistic therapy, combining talk therapy, mindfulness, and movement. I am a good fit for those impacted by marginalization, those with shame and self-esteem challenges, those impacted by trauma and addiction, and for couples.
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ communities; with substance use and addiction concerns; and with people affected by loss, illness and trauma.
I draw on the commonalities that exist between therapeutic approaches, and am aligned with anti-oppression perspectives. I utilize deep, introspective practices and pragmatic, solution-oriented practices to help clients cultivate greater self-compassion; achieve greater effectiveness in their relationships and communities; and grow towards deeper fulfillment in their lives. I am also able to offer a truly holistic therapy, combining talk therapy, mindfulness, and movement. I am a good fit for those impacted by marginalization, those with shame and self-esteem challenges, those impacted by trauma and addiction, and for couples.
![Photo of Karin Klassen - DBT Karin Klassen R Psych, MSc, MPhil, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/417e383c-d0d2-47de-a32e-0d0e18020461/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kelsey Chiasson, MACP, RCT-C, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b82173e4-2b99-4d3e-8e38-e3e867f87780/1/320x400.jpeg)
My therapeutic areas of interest include anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, burnout, and grief.
Welcome/ Bienvenue! I am currently accepting new clients and look forward to working with you on your therapeutic journey. Together, we can work towards overcoming the obstacles you are facing. I specifically aim to provide client-centred counselling services to individuals (18+) and couples, both in-person and virtually.
My therapeutic areas of interest include anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, burnout, and grief.
Welcome/ Bienvenue! I am currently accepting new clients and look forward to working with you on your therapeutic journey. Together, we can work towards overcoming the obstacles you are facing. I specifically aim to provide client-centred counselling services to individuals (18+) and couples, both in-person and virtually.
![Photo of Deanna Rafuse Poole, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/196c4b20-d1cb-4bd2-a23b-a341aaad2591/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deanna Rafuse Poole
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper Tantallon, NS B3Z (Online Only)
I am Clinical Social Worker/Therapist, experienced in supporting couples with issues like communication styles, betrayal, serious or chronic illness, consensual non-monogamy and non-heteronormative relationships. I have completed Levels 1&2 of Gottman Method, and Emotionally Focused Therapy, and draw from these modalities in my work with couples. For individuals living with anxiety, depression, or difficult life transitions such as Menopause, divorce, or feeling "stuck", my therapeutic approach can be matched to your learning style and needs, recognizing that therapy is a collaborative process.
I am Clinical Social Worker/Therapist, experienced in supporting couples with issues like communication styles, betrayal, serious or chronic illness, consensual non-monogamy and non-heteronormative relationships. I have completed Levels 1&2 of Gottman Method, and Emotionally Focused Therapy, and draw from these modalities in my work with couples. For individuals living with anxiety, depression, or difficult life transitions such as Menopause, divorce, or feeling "stuck", my therapeutic approach can be matched to your learning style and needs, recognizing that therapy is a collaborative process.
![Photo of Kelly A Copeland, MEd, RCT, CCC, BRec, CTRS, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce9f3229-b785-4ff2-ad9c-54471b9c09c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Some of the areas I provide counselling for include grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, dementia, burnout, chronic pain, life transitions and anger management.
Without a doubt, life is full of adversity, which can bring us to a place of distress and inner turmoil. I am a Registered Counselling Therapist who has had the honour of helping many souls find a sense of calm and hope amidst the many storms of life. I have been providing counselling services since 2012 and had a previous career as a Certified Recreation Therapist. My approach is one of genuine care and encouragement. I will provide you with a safe space to process your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. As you engage in the counselling process, you will find yourself developing a new awareness and clarity.
Some of the areas I provide counselling for include grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, dementia, burnout, chronic pain, life transitions and anger management.
Without a doubt, life is full of adversity, which can bring us to a place of distress and inner turmoil. I am a Registered Counselling Therapist who has had the honour of helping many souls find a sense of calm and hope amidst the many storms of life. I have been providing counselling services since 2012 and had a previous career as a Certified Recreation Therapist. My approach is one of genuine care and encouragement. I will provide you with a safe space to process your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. As you engage in the counselling process, you will find yourself developing a new awareness and clarity.
See more therapy options for Lower Sackville
Nearby Chronic Pain Counsellors Searches for Lower Sackville
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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.