Chronic Pain Therapists in Alliston, ON
![Photo of Stephanie Telegdi, MA, RP, CCC, SEP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f43f108-1bff-4ac1-9901-3fb20f66d4d1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel stuck and unable to change? You’ve worked hard to get to where you are but find yourself asking “is this as good as it gets?”. You know that pain and stress are a normal part of life, but it throws you every time. You feel irritated when something doesn’t go as planned, or feel like you go from 0 to 100 within a matter of moments. You find yourself going into autopilot just to get through the day, or sometimes even crying all alone. Regardless of when life got hard, it’s the same old pattern. You want to feel better – you just don’t know how.
Do you feel stuck and unable to change? You’ve worked hard to get to where you are but find yourself asking “is this as good as it gets?”. You know that pain and stress are a normal part of life, but it throws you every time. You feel irritated when something doesn’t go as planned, or feel like you go from 0 to 100 within a matter of moments. You find yourself going into autopilot just to get through the day, or sometimes even crying all alone. Regardless of when life got hard, it’s the same old pattern. You want to feel better – you just don’t know how.
![Photo of Diana Korsounski, LCSW, MSW, BHSc, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ded4976d-5e64-499a-b5f7-aed41e92ea12/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have 15+ years of experience in the mental health field, specializing in mental health & wellness, as well as chronic mental illness, and working with both Men and Woman.
“With a heart like that, you deserve the world.” (R.M. Drake) - Don’t we all deserve to be the very best version of ourselves, the Best You that there can be. Together, we can examine common negative thinking patterns; in addition, we can work on developing better coping strategies aimed at enhancing personal positive reasoning skills and attitude.
I have 15+ years of experience in the mental health field, specializing in mental health & wellness, as well as chronic mental illness, and working with both Men and Woman.
“With a heart like that, you deserve the world.” (R.M. Drake) - Don’t we all deserve to be the very best version of ourselves, the Best You that there can be. Together, we can examine common negative thinking patterns; in addition, we can work on developing better coping strategies aimed at enhancing personal positive reasoning skills and attitude.
![Photo of Justin Kyle Boudreau - Boudreau Wellness Counselling & Psychotherapy , RSSW, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3964583a-8f59-4e7f-80a1-64806a3b306c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Boudreau Wellness Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, RSSW, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Alliston, ON L9R
I started in the helping field in 1993, specializing in youth and mental health. I became a full-time Professor in 2007 within the Child and Youth Care Program at Seneca College. I’ve spent my career as a Social Worker and Professor researching and teaching best practices in the helping field. I work with children, youth, adults, and couples, and provide a trusted and competent approach to help. I am a member of the Ontario Association of Child and Youth Care, a member of Ontario Association of Social Workers, and registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
I started in the helping field in 1993, specializing in youth and mental health. I became a full-time Professor in 2007 within the Child and Youth Care Program at Seneca College. I’ve spent my career as a Social Worker and Professor researching and teaching best practices in the helping field. I work with children, youth, adults, and couples, and provide a trusted and competent approach to help. I am a member of the Ontario Association of Child and Youth Care, a member of Ontario Association of Social Workers, and registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
![Photo of Emily Duggan, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a7e7305-5a30-42b3-b7cc-f31b3114a7e7/2/320x400.png)
I can relate to the many issues and needs of others. Some experiences are so traumatic that we may actually feel a sense of hopelessness. Some of us need help in working through trauma, self-esteem, or confidence. We can create a healthier and more adaptive life where we overall feel better and when we start to heal and feel good we are going to enjoy the many things that we have in our lives a little bit more.
I can relate to the many issues and needs of others. Some experiences are so traumatic that we may actually feel a sense of hopelessness. Some of us need help in working through trauma, self-esteem, or confidence. We can create a healthier and more adaptive life where we overall feel better and when we start to heal and feel good we are going to enjoy the many things that we have in our lives a little bit more.
![Photo of Amanda Ablett, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c2c2f3c-77bb-44dc-b1ea-c0113a94c071/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and welcome! Making the decision to reach out for help can be challenging and often taking the first step can be the hardest part. Do you find yourself worrying a lot or feeling anxious? Maybe you have gone through a significant life change and you do not feel comfortable with your current situation. Or, perhaps you have realized that you are surviving life and you are not really present and thriving. If you are ready to make meaningful changes in your life, I would be honored to walk alongside you through this journey. I believe together we can create success.
Hello and welcome! Making the decision to reach out for help can be challenging and often taking the first step can be the hardest part. Do you find yourself worrying a lot or feeling anxious? Maybe you have gone through a significant life change and you do not feel comfortable with your current situation. Or, perhaps you have realized that you are surviving life and you are not really present and thriving. If you are ready to make meaningful changes in your life, I would be honored to walk alongside you through this journey. I believe together we can create success.
![Photo of Jonathan Douglas - Central Ontario Psychology, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/417ba828-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Central Ontario Psychology is a diverse group practice. We offer psychotherapy, clinical assessment, and psychoeducational assessment. Services are provided by psychologists, or under their close supervision. Our clients include adults children adolescents and seniors. We treat anxiety, depression, behavioural and conduct disorders. We offer specialized treatment for trauma, whether from childhood, the workplace, the military, or in First Responders.
Central Ontario Psychology is a diverse group practice. We offer psychotherapy, clinical assessment, and psychoeducational assessment. Services are provided by psychologists, or under their close supervision. Our clients include adults children adolescents and seniors. We treat anxiety, depression, behavioural and conduct disorders. We offer specialized treatment for trauma, whether from childhood, the workplace, the military, or in First Responders.
![Photo of Agnes Kaufman, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0d5c430-db5d-4ca3-a679-7ed32508d12c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I have substantial experience working with clients experiencing anger management concerns, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, cultural and boundary disputes and domestic violence as well as couple counselling and those with relationship challenges I have worked with clients of all ages, starting as young as 10 years of age. I also provide clinical consultation/supervision for other therapists.
Welcome! I have substantial experience working with clients experiencing anger management concerns, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, cultural and boundary disputes and domestic violence as well as couple counselling and those with relationship challenges I have worked with clients of all ages, starting as young as 10 years of age. I also provide clinical consultation/supervision for other therapists.
![Photo of Janice Canning, RP, CHyp, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45113bda-e675-4612-bf84-eb92be6dc0ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for a therapist that understands front-line responders, military and veteran issues? I can help you to understand your physical, emotional, and brain changes that come with exposure to workplace trauma. I use a variety of therapeutic methods: cognitive behavioral, acceptance and commitment therapy,(CBT and ACT), Clinical Hypnotherapy, somatic awareness, and Mindfulness, where focused attention of present thoughts and feelings leads to behavioral changes. I support you through psychedelic therapy, ketamine and psilocybin which is known to help PTSD, persistent depression, anxiety and addictions. Located in Vaughan.
Are you looking for a therapist that understands front-line responders, military and veteran issues? I can help you to understand your physical, emotional, and brain changes that come with exposure to workplace trauma. I use a variety of therapeutic methods: cognitive behavioral, acceptance and commitment therapy,(CBT and ACT), Clinical Hypnotherapy, somatic awareness, and Mindfulness, where focused attention of present thoughts and feelings leads to behavioral changes. I support you through psychedelic therapy, ketamine and psilocybin which is known to help PTSD, persistent depression, anxiety and addictions. Located in Vaughan.
![Photo of Carolyn Buhler - Carolyn Buhler- Social Worker & Psychotherapist, MA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8d5af93-d5c9-4673-b150-8f90102b5cde/3/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyn Buhler- Social Worker & Psychotherapist
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alliston, ON L9R
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to Ascend Counselling & Wellness. I am a Registered Social Worker & Psychotherapist with 20 years of experience as a therapist . I count it a privilege and honor to come alongside others on their personal life journeys. Life can be hard and you don’t need to do it alone. Whether you are struggling with anxiety and worry, stress, burnout, self esteem, depression, relationships, career decisions, or navigating life stressors- it takes bravery & courage to embark on the therapeutic journey. I am here to hold space and journey alongside you through personal healing, growth and transformation.
Welcome to Ascend Counselling & Wellness. I am a Registered Social Worker & Psychotherapist with 20 years of experience as a therapist . I count it a privilege and honor to come alongside others on their personal life journeys. Life can be hard and you don’t need to do it alone. Whether you are struggling with anxiety and worry, stress, burnout, self esteem, depression, relationships, career decisions, or navigating life stressors- it takes bravery & courage to embark on the therapeutic journey. I am here to hold space and journey alongside you through personal healing, growth and transformation.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Shelly Sawden, MDiv, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96ae62fe-903e-4aad-9344-0c3641128966/2/320x400.jpeg)
No-Wait List! Accepting new clients. Are you struggling in life right now? Congratulations on making the first step to looking for a psychotherapist, that takes courage. I have a passion for helping others find their way to improve themselves. Whether you are struggling with a mental illness or struggling with the challenges life can throw at us. I will be along side you to help you work towards your goals finding a life worth living.
No-Wait List! Accepting new clients. Are you struggling in life right now? Congratulations on making the first step to looking for a psychotherapist, that takes courage. I have a passion for helping others find their way to improve themselves. Whether you are struggling with a mental illness or struggling with the challenges life can throw at us. I will be along side you to help you work towards your goals finding a life worth living.
![Photo of Suzanne McMullin, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7d586de-9bd4-4102-9c8e-1e24a831b715/1/320x400.jpeg)
As clinical social worker with a master’s degree along with more than 10 years of experience, I have worked with children, youth and their families, as well as adults both in English and French. I also have experience working with military members with regards to challenges they face coming back from deployments. As a military wife, I am familiar with military life style and soldier’s challenges.
As clinical social worker with a master’s degree along with more than 10 years of experience, I have worked with children, youth and their families, as well as adults both in English and French. I also have experience working with military members with regards to challenges they face coming back from deployments. As a military wife, I am familiar with military life style and soldier’s challenges.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Robin Julie Dewhurst, MA Th, (SCP)RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78e1e8dc-f991-45c1-9d00-714929a06fea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Robin Julie Dewhurst
Registered Psychotherapist, MA Th, (SCP)RP
Verified Verified
Owen Sound, ON N4K
I have experience working with grief and addictions and chronic pain.
Most of us want the same things in life- purposeful living, harmonious relationships, peace. We want a sense of love and belonging. We want to be happy. Choices, transitions and challenges in life can be hard to navigate on our own but there are peaceful resolutions and ways to overcome our internal blocks and core beliefs, our over- thinking and self esteem. We are all capable of self- healing especially when we activate our powerful subconscious using theta healing and hypnosis.
I have experience working with grief and addictions and chronic pain.
Most of us want the same things in life- purposeful living, harmonious relationships, peace. We want a sense of love and belonging. We want to be happy. Choices, transitions and challenges in life can be hard to navigate on our own but there are peaceful resolutions and ways to overcome our internal blocks and core beliefs, our over- thinking and self esteem. We are all capable of self- healing especially when we activate our powerful subconscious using theta healing and hypnosis.
![Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49563062-c73a-4bcd-986a-bd846d59a22c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4Y (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.
![Photo of Amber Riehl, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67784aa0-dd54-4169-8aa4-7177be96570c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Riehl
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Goderich, ON N7A
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel stuck, disconnected or like something just doesn't fit? Are you stressed and overwhelmed? Are you looking for more satisfaction from your life and relationships? Whether these feelings are new or have been around for awhile, you are not broken and you don't have to go it alone. With over a decade of experience, I have worked with clients to address a broad range of concerns related to family dynamics; communication and boundaries; complex trauma; anxiety; dis/ability; illness; neurodiversity; grief; and more. Whatever brought you to my page, I'm so glad you are here.
Do you feel stuck, disconnected or like something just doesn't fit? Are you stressed and overwhelmed? Are you looking for more satisfaction from your life and relationships? Whether these feelings are new or have been around for awhile, you are not broken and you don't have to go it alone. With over a decade of experience, I have worked with clients to address a broad range of concerns related to family dynamics; communication and boundaries; complex trauma; anxiety; dis/ability; illness; neurodiversity; grief; and more. Whatever brought you to my page, I'm so glad you are here.
![Photo of Chantal Chevtchenko (Legere), M Psy, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2280300f-1190-4f51-af5e-c59ad5d18bf1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chantal Chevtchenko (Legere)
Pre-Licensed Professional, M Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P (Online Only)
My psychotherapy interests include depression, anxiety, relationships, self-esteem, chronic illness, coping skills, grief and bereavement, stress, trauma, and PTSD.
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship between therapist and client is crucial to healing and the facilitation of growth. I strive to achieve this through connecting with my clients, understanding their goals and concerns, and creating a safe, non-judgmental space. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings including private and non-profit sectors. I have gained substantial experience conducting clinical assessments and individual therapy through clinical internships and employment at several private practices in Toronto, Ontario.
My psychotherapy interests include depression, anxiety, relationships, self-esteem, chronic illness, coping skills, grief and bereavement, stress, trauma, and PTSD.
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship between therapist and client is crucial to healing and the facilitation of growth. I strive to achieve this through connecting with my clients, understanding their goals and concerns, and creating a safe, non-judgmental space. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings including private and non-profit sectors. I have gained substantial experience conducting clinical assessments and individual therapy through clinical internships and employment at several private practices in Toronto, Ontario.
![Photo of Anna Ballon - Healthy Minds Psychotherapy, PhD, MSc, BSc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a0204e4-a146-477c-a071-5f8d44cf472a/3/320x400.png)
Healthy Minds Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), PhD, MSc, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5S
My areas of focus include: life stress, confidence, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, infertility, injury, chronic pain, relationship stress, work stress, burn out, identity and self-development.
I believe that we all possess resilience to overcome life's challenges. Therapy is one way in which we can raise our awareness of our untapped strengths. I have studied psychology and have worked in healthcare for over 25 years. First, as an Occupational Therapist and then as an Executive in healthcare organizations. I completed my Master's degree in Rehabilitation Medicine and investigated processes that assist individuals to overcome pain and return back to function. Later, in my academic career, I earned a PhD in the field of organizational behaviour and examined how people, teams, and work environments support one another.
My areas of focus include: life stress, confidence, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, infertility, injury, chronic pain, relationship stress, work stress, burn out, identity and self-development.
I believe that we all possess resilience to overcome life's challenges. Therapy is one way in which we can raise our awareness of our untapped strengths. I have studied psychology and have worked in healthcare for over 25 years. First, as an Occupational Therapist and then as an Executive in healthcare organizations. I completed my Master's degree in Rehabilitation Medicine and investigated processes that assist individuals to overcome pain and return back to function. Later, in my academic career, I earned a PhD in the field of organizational behaviour and examined how people, teams, and work environments support one another.
![Photo of Nat Cooper, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b4ea3d5-29ce-46b1-a3b6-a4979daa7a2a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nat Cooper
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2R (Online Only)
I believe you know yourself best, and I am here to listen. Connection is important to me, and I believe it can be healing. I aim to support you as best I can through whatever life has thrown at you, offering a judgment-free space filled with empathy, curiosity and patience. As a queer, neurodivergent therapist, I frequently work with members of the LGBTQ+ community and their experience navigating Autism (ASD), chronic illness, ethical non-monogamy and relationship issues. With my flexible, client-centred approach, I hope to support you however is best at the time. Life is hard sometimes, and you don’t have to walk this path alone.
I believe you know yourself best, and I am here to listen. Connection is important to me, and I believe it can be healing. I aim to support you as best I can through whatever life has thrown at you, offering a judgment-free space filled with empathy, curiosity and patience. As a queer, neurodivergent therapist, I frequently work with members of the LGBTQ+ community and their experience navigating Autism (ASD), chronic illness, ethical non-monogamy and relationship issues. With my flexible, client-centred approach, I hope to support you however is best at the time. Life is hard sometimes, and you don’t have to walk this path alone.
![Photo of Nisha Chowdhury, BA(Hon), MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3aff6190-be2a-43ff-8079-13de9379ba0c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nisha Chowdhury
Registered Psychotherapist, BA(Hon), MA, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Tiny, ON L0K (Online Only)
You will gain understanding and clarity on various psychological and physiological symptoms, whether it's chronic anxiety, low mood, pain management or grief, communication skills and more.
Are you feeling low? Do you find yourself detached from life, or sometimes very reactive and angry? You are NOT alone. In fact, in the face of overwhelming stress we often choose to run, or some try to fight and many a times freeze in the moment. It can help to know how to maneuver through it, without being crippled by it. Talking about it with a professional can help. I am here to listen and provide a safe space. If you're here means you may be searching for a change. It takes a lot of courage to choose you.
You will gain understanding and clarity on various psychological and physiological symptoms, whether it's chronic anxiety, low mood, pain management or grief, communication skills and more.
Are you feeling low? Do you find yourself detached from life, or sometimes very reactive and angry? You are NOT alone. In fact, in the face of overwhelming stress we often choose to run, or some try to fight and many a times freeze in the moment. It can help to know how to maneuver through it, without being crippled by it. Talking about it with a professional can help. I am here to listen and provide a safe space. If you're here means you may be searching for a change. It takes a lot of courage to choose you.
![Photo of Heather Antoni -Psychotherapist At Evans Family Counselling And Psychotherapy, RP, MA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be5204b9-79df-4dba-9d73-120721ef2817/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Antoni -Psychotherapist At Evans Family Counselling And Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8S
My six years of experience includes working with children, youth, adults and older adults in the areas of mental illness, addiction, grief, trauma, LGBT2SQ+ navigation, and spiritual care.
People deserve to feel heard and valued, especially when facing the storms of life, so I work to create a presence that honours this. I work from a person-centred, trauma-informed, existential framework, seeking to honour each persons own unique experiences related to their particular intersectionalities. Working also from a spiritually-integrated perspective allows me to explore with clients the impact of spiritual wellness, with interspiritual and intercultural sensitivity. If you are experiencing distress related to meaning, identity, and/or spirituality, you will find a non-judgmental presence in which to safely explore.
My six years of experience includes working with children, youth, adults and older adults in the areas of mental illness, addiction, grief, trauma, LGBT2SQ+ navigation, and spiritual care.
People deserve to feel heard and valued, especially when facing the storms of life, so I work to create a presence that honours this. I work from a person-centred, trauma-informed, existential framework, seeking to honour each persons own unique experiences related to their particular intersectionalities. Working also from a spiritually-integrated perspective allows me to explore with clients the impact of spiritual wellness, with interspiritual and intercultural sensitivity. If you are experiencing distress related to meaning, identity, and/or spirituality, you will find a non-judgmental presence in which to safely explore.
![Photo of Cortney Lacroix, MHK, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a22ac162-9232-4382-af97-580b74962e3f/1/320x400.png)
Cortney Lacroix
Registered Psychotherapist, MHK, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Midland, ON L4R
I have experience supporting people with concerns of anxiety, depression, trauma (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, self-esteem, and stress.
Navigating the ups and downs in life can be challenging, you don’t have to go through it alone. Whether you are looking for therapy because you know what you want to talk about or you have no idea where to start, I’m here as support. As a Registered Psychotherapist, I strive to help you increase your awareness of what’s causing difficulties in your life and help you make changes to reach your goals. I believe people are the experts in their own lives and I can help as a guide on your therapy journey. I approach my work with empathy, non-judgement and collaboration.
I have experience supporting people with concerns of anxiety, depression, trauma (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, self-esteem, and stress.
Navigating the ups and downs in life can be challenging, you don’t have to go through it alone. Whether you are looking for therapy because you know what you want to talk about or you have no idea where to start, I’m here as support. As a Registered Psychotherapist, I strive to help you increase your awareness of what’s causing difficulties in your life and help you make changes to reach your goals. I believe people are the experts in their own lives and I can help as a guide on your therapy journey. I approach my work with empathy, non-judgement and collaboration.
See more therapy options for Alliston
Nearby Chronic Pain Counsellors Searches for Alliston
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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.