Chronic Pain Therapists in King City, ON

Photo of Jennifer Emanoilidis, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Jennifer Emanoilidis
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
King City, ON L7B
This is why my healing philosophy is embedded in experiential and neurobiologically-based therapies: I use modalities such as Somatic Therapy and EMDR, in conjunction with IFS and DBT to access and repair the psychological map of pain and overwhelm.
Is living with a “survival mindset” hindering your daily life and relationships? Are you looking to address the root cause of your triggers? Moments of calm and connection can feel fleeting when we are repeatedly hijacked by overwhelm and unmet needs, or trapped in a loop-play of painful past experiences that seem to serve as cautionary lessons. Trauma-informed psychotherapy is an opportunity to reset the blueprint of our nervous system, release old wounds and reprogram outdated belief systems. Together, we lead the way towards feeling safely embodied, becoming at peace in your mind, and finding harmony within.
This is why my healing philosophy is embedded in experiential and neurobiologically-based therapies: I use modalities such as Somatic Therapy and EMDR, in conjunction with IFS and DBT to access and repair the psychological map of pain and overwhelm.
Is living with a “survival mindset” hindering your daily life and relationships? Are you looking to address the root cause of your triggers? Moments of calm and connection can feel fleeting when we are repeatedly hijacked by overwhelm and unmet needs, or trapped in a loop-play of painful past experiences that seem to serve as cautionary lessons. Trauma-informed psychotherapy is an opportunity to reset the blueprint of our nervous system, release old wounds and reprogram outdated belief systems. Together, we lead the way towards feeling safely embodied, becoming at peace in your mind, and finding harmony within.
(647) 797-9661 View (647) 797-9661
Photo of Sara Saniee, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sara Saniee
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King City, ON L7B
Are you tired of living in "survival mode"? Either feeling chronically unsettled or inexpressibly low and numb! Perhaps, something feels missing; an emptiness you can’t quite put your finger on! There comes a time when just getting by is not enough and we can no longer hide behind a smile. Change begins when we decide that "waiting for the pain to dissipate" is no longer an option. So what if you could take back control of your life and live unchained by your history? How far would you thrive if you could tailor a life of your own design, uninterrupted by stress, anxiety or pain stories?
Are you tired of living in "survival mode"? Either feeling chronically unsettled or inexpressibly low and numb! Perhaps, something feels missing; an emptiness you can’t quite put your finger on! There comes a time when just getting by is not enough and we can no longer hide behind a smile. Change begins when we decide that "waiting for the pain to dissipate" is no longer an option. So what if you could take back control of your life and live unchained by your history? How far would you thrive if you could tailor a life of your own design, uninterrupted by stress, anxiety or pain stories?
(289) 217-0906 View (289) 217-0906
Photo of Mona Hwang - Green Life Counseling, BA, MMFT, RMFT, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Green Life Counseling
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MMFT, RMFT, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
King City, ON L7B
Hello from Green Life Counseling! We're a compassionate team of registered social workers, psychotherapists, and marriage and family therapists here in Ontario. As qualified members of OASW, CAMFT, and CRPO, we're dedicated to offering professional support to your needs.
Hello from Green Life Counseling! We're a compassionate team of registered social workers, psychotherapists, and marriage and family therapists here in Ontario. As qualified members of OASW, CAMFT, and CRPO, we're dedicated to offering professional support to your needs.
(647) 930-0143 View (647) 930-0143
Photo of Clairville Yolanda Testani - Clairville Therapy Group, Registered Psychotherapist
Clairville Therapy Group
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King City, ON L7B  (Online Only)
We're now welcoming new clients at Clairville Therapy Group! Our practice is dedicated to creating a warm and safe environment where individuals of all ages—from 16 years old to retirees can find support. Our therapists are passionate about helping clients achieve a sense of grounding and fulfillment. Our therapeutic approach integrates CBT, mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, psychodynamic techniques, and attachment theory. We tailor each session to meet you where you are, providing flexible, evidence-based therapy for individuals and couples. Together, we’ll navigate life’s challenges and work toward building
We're now welcoming new clients at Clairville Therapy Group! Our practice is dedicated to creating a warm and safe environment where individuals of all ages—from 16 years old to retirees can find support. Our therapists are passionate about helping clients achieve a sense of grounding and fulfillment. Our therapeutic approach integrates CBT, mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, psychodynamic techniques, and attachment theory. We tailor each session to meet you where you are, providing flexible, evidence-based therapy for individuals and couples. Together, we’ll navigate life’s challenges and work toward building
(647) 955-5795 View (647) 955-5795
Photo of Kaitlyn Martino - Vita Psychotherapy and Counselling Services, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Vita Psychotherapy and Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
King City, ON L7B
Vita Psychotherapy and Counselling Services provides comprehensive psychotherapy, counselling and mental health support. We provide in-person therapy at 19101 Leslie St Unit 2, Sharon, ON and online throughout Ontario, Canada. Our specialized services cater to adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Our mission is to create a safe, caring, collaborative and supportive environment for you. We value connection, understanding, compassion, empathy and self-growth. Vita Psychotherapy and Counselling Services team of Registered Psychotherapists provides therapy to individuals, couples, families and teens.
Vita Psychotherapy and Counselling Services provides comprehensive psychotherapy, counselling and mental health support. We provide in-person therapy at 19101 Leslie St Unit 2, Sharon, ON and online throughout Ontario, Canada. Our specialized services cater to adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Our mission is to create a safe, caring, collaborative and supportive environment for you. We value connection, understanding, compassion, empathy and self-growth. Vita Psychotherapy and Counselling Services team of Registered Psychotherapists provides therapy to individuals, couples, families and teens.
(289) 277-6745 View (289) 277-6745
Photo of Mary Ventrella, PhD, MA, CYCP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Mary Ventrella
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, MA, CYCP, RP
Verified Verified
King City, ON L7B
Doctoral degree in Counselling Studies and Certified Child and Youth Counsellor. Support working with children, marriages & families from all stages. I have been in practice for over 33 years. The focus includes: building safety, healthy attachment and attunement, healing from trauma by using NUROFEEDBACK, EMDR and BRAINSPOTTING, decreasing anxiety, depression and OCD, family and marital issues and building self-confidence, emotional regulation, living mindfully with purpose, spirituality, supporting goals and aspirations, living in relational harmony and investing in fulfilling relationships and life goals.
Doctoral degree in Counselling Studies and Certified Child and Youth Counsellor. Support working with children, marriages & families from all stages. I have been in practice for over 33 years. The focus includes: building safety, healthy attachment and attunement, healing from trauma by using NUROFEEDBACK, EMDR and BRAINSPOTTING, decreasing anxiety, depression and OCD, family and marital issues and building self-confidence, emotional regulation, living mindfully with purpose, spirituality, supporting goals and aspirations, living in relational harmony and investing in fulfilling relationships and life goals.
(647) 492-4016 View (647) 492-4016
Photo of Pantea Ahmadian, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Pantea Ahmadian
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
King City, ON L7B
Are you feeling stuck in the same patterns? Overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or major life changes? You’re not alone—life can be incredibly challenging. I specialize in helping with anxiety, self-esteem, coping skills, and family and relationship issues. Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or dealing with career stress, I’m here to support you in reclaiming your authentic self and putting your needs first.
Are you feeling stuck in the same patterns? Overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or major life changes? You’re not alone—life can be incredibly challenging. I specialize in helping with anxiety, self-esteem, coping skills, and family and relationship issues. Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or dealing with career stress, I’m here to support you in reclaiming your authentic self and putting your needs first.
(289) 763-9898 View (289) 763-9898
Photo of Yana Korotkevich, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Yana Korotkevich
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
King City, ON L7B
Experiencing anxiety, depression, or feeling overwhelmed? Seeking help is essential for your well-being. I'm a licensed and registered Clinical Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario, providing personalized psychotherapy sessions for adults. In therapy, we'll collaborate to explore your strengths, improve coping strategies, and achieve your personal goals, ultimately enhancing your quality of life. Let's create a safe and supportive space for your healing and growth. Take that courageous step towards a happier and healthier you. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength.
Experiencing anxiety, depression, or feeling overwhelmed? Seeking help is essential for your well-being. I'm a licensed and registered Clinical Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario, providing personalized psychotherapy sessions for adults. In therapy, we'll collaborate to explore your strengths, improve coping strategies, and achieve your personal goals, ultimately enhancing your quality of life. Let's create a safe and supportive space for your healing and growth. Take that courageous step towards a happier and healthier you. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength.
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Photo of Alessia Petrella, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Alessia Petrella
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
King City, ON L7B
Partnership is at the heart of my work. I believe through collaboration and compassion, clients have the opportunity to partake in a therapeutic process where they feel safe and empowered to make the changes they are hoping to see. My aim in our work together is to support you in healing, while we work together to develop coping strategies to navigate current and future stressors. I practice from a culturally sensitive perspective, honoring the diversity of my clients and their experiences.
Partnership is at the heart of my work. I believe through collaboration and compassion, clients have the opportunity to partake in a therapeutic process where they feel safe and empowered to make the changes they are hoping to see. My aim in our work together is to support you in healing, while we work together to develop coping strategies to navigate current and future stressors. I practice from a culturally sensitive perspective, honoring the diversity of my clients and their experiences.
(289) 203-0617 View (289) 203-0617
Photo of Orr Ariely, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Orr Ariely
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
King City, ON L7B
Have you been feeling “stuck” in old patterns of anxiety, low mood and numbness? Have you wondered if there is more to life than "just coping”? You’re not alone and there is a way forward. The catalyst to change is when we recognize that staying hidden underneath the “I’m okay” armor is no longer an option. Root-cause therapy focuses on addressing unprocessed painful experiences that feed our current symptoms and emotional patterns. This approach empowers you to let go of fears, self-doubt and old wounds so that you can gain a sense of control over your life and form strong bonds in relationships.
Have you been feeling “stuck” in old patterns of anxiety, low mood and numbness? Have you wondered if there is more to life than "just coping”? You’re not alone and there is a way forward. The catalyst to change is when we recognize that staying hidden underneath the “I’m okay” armor is no longer an option. Root-cause therapy focuses on addressing unprocessed painful experiences that feed our current symptoms and emotional patterns. This approach empowers you to let go of fears, self-doubt and old wounds so that you can gain a sense of control over your life and form strong bonds in relationships.
(289) 797-3238 View (289) 797-3238
Photo of Jim Salmon, MA, CPsych, Psychologist
Jim Salmon
Psychologist, MA, CPsych
Verified Verified
King City, ON L7B  (Online Only)
Offering therapy/counseling and assessment services with immediate availability. I am an experienced psychologist offering professional, trauma-informed, evidence-based counseling services to adults with a wide range of concerns. My approach a good fit for anyone who is struggling with overwhelming emotions, difficult thoughts, or finding themselves stuck in problematic patterns of behavior. If you're already tried counseling or other strategies in the past that have led to temporary or short-term changes, only to have your problems inevitably come back, my approach to therapy may be what you're looking for.
Offering therapy/counseling and assessment services with immediate availability. I am an experienced psychologist offering professional, trauma-informed, evidence-based counseling services to adults with a wide range of concerns. My approach a good fit for anyone who is struggling with overwhelming emotions, difficult thoughts, or finding themselves stuck in problematic patterns of behavior. If you're already tried counseling or other strategies in the past that have led to temporary or short-term changes, only to have your problems inevitably come back, my approach to therapy may be what you're looking for.
(289) 402-5044 View (289) 402-5044
Photo of Angie Blandford, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Angie Blandford
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
King City, ON L7B
Feeling anxious, stressed out or nervous? Do you find yourself frustrated, wondering what you can do to get rid of these awful feelings? You may have found that pushing worry away only works for a short time. If you feel like your life has been impacted by anxiety, OCD, or trauma, the skilled therapists at Grounded Minds can help. Anxiety doesn't have to be something you just get used to dealing with. My practice has a team of therapists that specialize in anxiety, OCD and trauma. We're ready to help you kick anxiety out of the driver's seat. You can book a free consultation call on our website in under 5 minutes.
Feeling anxious, stressed out or nervous? Do you find yourself frustrated, wondering what you can do to get rid of these awful feelings? You may have found that pushing worry away only works for a short time. If you feel like your life has been impacted by anxiety, OCD, or trauma, the skilled therapists at Grounded Minds can help. Anxiety doesn't have to be something you just get used to dealing with. My practice has a team of therapists that specialize in anxiety, OCD and trauma. We're ready to help you kick anxiety out of the driver's seat. You can book a free consultation call on our website in under 5 minutes.
(289) 212-6486 View (289) 212-6486

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Anna Skomorovskaia, MSW, RD, CDE, Registered Social Worker
Anna Skomorovskaia
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RD, CDE
Verified Verified
Newmarket, ON L0G  (Online Only)
My specialty: anxiety, panic, depression, chronic pain, PTSD, trauma, childhood trauma, and eating.
Have you experienced one or more traumatic events, or been diagnosed with PTSD? Are you struggling with past traumas, anxiety, panic or phobias, eating disorders, or dealing with chronic pain, IBS? I am here to support you. Life can throw some tough challenges our way, but you don't have to face them alone. Difficult experiences in your past, or mental health struggles in the present, don't have to dictate your future. You can recover from mental health challenges. I am certified clinical trauma specialist and certified EMDR therapist, I offer mind body therapy using EMDR, Brainspotting, and Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR).
My specialty: anxiety, panic, depression, chronic pain, PTSD, trauma, childhood trauma, and eating.
Have you experienced one or more traumatic events, or been diagnosed with PTSD? Are you struggling with past traumas, anxiety, panic or phobias, eating disorders, or dealing with chronic pain, IBS? I am here to support you. Life can throw some tough challenges our way, but you don't have to face them alone. Difficult experiences in your past, or mental health struggles in the present, don't have to dictate your future. You can recover from mental health challenges. I am certified clinical trauma specialist and certified EMDR therapist, I offer mind body therapy using EMDR, Brainspotting, and Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR).
(289) 274-6370 View (289) 274-6370
Photo of Valery Kleiman, Psychologist
Valery Kleiman
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Thornhill, ON L4J
Liberation from the cycle of pain, depression, or anxiety is a matter of reversing momentum.
Is there a link between the mind and body when it comes to physical suffering? The recognition that a mind-body connection plays an important role in suffering from physical symptoms, including pain, has been given many names: tension myositis syndrome (TMS), mind-body syndrome, medically unexplained symptoms, somatization, psychosomatic illness, and psychophysiological disorder, to name a few. We offer effective treatment for chronic pain, TMS, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fibromyalgia, chronic headaches, pelvic pain, chronic fatigue syndrome, insomnia, sexual dysfunctions, anxiety and depression.
Liberation from the cycle of pain, depression, or anxiety is a matter of reversing momentum.
Is there a link between the mind and body when it comes to physical suffering? The recognition that a mind-body connection plays an important role in suffering from physical symptoms, including pain, has been given many names: tension myositis syndrome (TMS), mind-body syndrome, medically unexplained symptoms, somatization, psychosomatic illness, and psychophysiological disorder, to name a few. We offer effective treatment for chronic pain, TMS, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fibromyalgia, chronic headaches, pelvic pain, chronic fatigue syndrome, insomnia, sexual dysfunctions, anxiety and depression.
(855) 953-0548 View (855) 953-0548
Photo of Nada Elfeki, MEd, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Nada Elfeki
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, MSc
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L6A
My clients face a wide range of issues including: Depression, anxiety, chronic pain, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), life transitions, career transitions, relationship challenges and parenting issues. When I first start working with clients, we develop a list of goals that they would like to work towards so that our work is focused and directed. Some examples of goals my clients have worked towards and achieved include: acquiring tools to feel more in control of their depression and/or anxiety, becoming more assertive with others, improving their relationships and feeling more fulfilled with their career.
My clients face a wide range of issues including: Depression, anxiety, chronic pain, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), life transitions, career transitions, relationship challenges and parenting issues. When I first start working with clients, we develop a list of goals that they would like to work towards so that our work is focused and directed. Some examples of goals my clients have worked towards and achieved include: acquiring tools to feel more in control of their depression and/or anxiety, becoming more assertive with others, improving their relationships and feeling more fulfilled with their career.
(289) 277-6833 View (289) 277-6833
Photo of Eva Svoboda, MA, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Eva Svoboda
Psychologist, MA, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
Dr. Eva Svoboda is a co-founding psychologist at Toronto Brain Health. She has significant experience treating individuals with persistent symptoms following concussion (e.g., headaches, sleep problems, low stress tolerance, anxiety, irritability, low mood, noise/light sensitivity), providing rehabilitation to those with acquired brain injury (e.g., stroke, brain tumor, epilepsy), and therapy for personal development, anxiety, stress, insomnia, chronic pain, depression, OCD & trauma. Her approach is compassionate and client-centered. Her treatment is informed by research in neuroscience, rehabilitation & psychological therapy.
Dr. Eva Svoboda is a co-founding psychologist at Toronto Brain Health. She has significant experience treating individuals with persistent symptoms following concussion (e.g., headaches, sleep problems, low stress tolerance, anxiety, irritability, low mood, noise/light sensitivity), providing rehabilitation to those with acquired brain injury (e.g., stroke, brain tumor, epilepsy), and therapy for personal development, anxiety, stress, insomnia, chronic pain, depression, OCD & trauma. Her approach is compassionate and client-centered. Her treatment is informed by research in neuroscience, rehabilitation & psychological therapy.
(289) 210-5996 View (289) 210-5996
Photo of Kerry McRorie, MEd , MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kerry McRorie
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd , MACP, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
If you are an individual adult looking to heal attachment wounds, process trauma, or cultivate strategies to manage anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, or chronic illness, I would love the opportunity to see if we would be a good therapeutic fit. Many people I speak with have been told they may be an ideal candidate for EMDR. Others may have sought traditional talk therapy (CBT or DBT) for their developmental trauma in the past but are now curious about a different evidence-based treatment that combines both a top-down (cognitive) and a bottom-up (somatic) approach.
If you are an individual adult looking to heal attachment wounds, process trauma, or cultivate strategies to manage anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, or chronic illness, I would love the opportunity to see if we would be a good therapeutic fit. Many people I speak with have been told they may be an ideal candidate for EMDR. Others may have sought traditional talk therapy (CBT or DBT) for their developmental trauma in the past but are now curious about a different evidence-based treatment that combines both a top-down (cognitive) and a bottom-up (somatic) approach.
(289) 301-9051 View (289) 301-9051
Photo of Ida Radan - Ida Radan Centre For Psychology & Emotional Health, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Ida Radan Centre For Psychology & Emotional Health
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thornhill, ON L4J  (Online Only)
Another focus of my interest is helping reduce the suffering of individuals who are living with chronic muscular-skeletal pain.
Welcome! It is a privilege to support my clients. I am intentional in creating an atmosphere of safety and hope during consultations by bringing kindness to the therapy space, and a desire for developing an authentic connection. I can support you overcome issues with depression, anxiety and chronic worry, panic attacks, social anxiety, family conflict, relationship issues, lack of assertiveness and boundary difficulties, anger issues, low confidence and self-esteem, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment to illness and injury, life changes, workplace difficulties, and discrimination.
Another focus of my interest is helping reduce the suffering of individuals who are living with chronic muscular-skeletal pain.
Welcome! It is a privilege to support my clients. I am intentional in creating an atmosphere of safety and hope during consultations by bringing kindness to the therapy space, and a desire for developing an authentic connection. I can support you overcome issues with depression, anxiety and chronic worry, panic attacks, social anxiety, family conflict, relationship issues, lack of assertiveness and boundary difficulties, anger issues, low confidence and self-esteem, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment to illness and injury, life changes, workplace difficulties, and discrimination.
(289) 275-3983 View (289) 275-3983
Photo of Shira Smith Bloomfield - Chronic Pain | Hsp | Overwhelm | Burnout , BES, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Chronic Pain | Hsp | Overwhelm | Burnout
Registered Psychotherapist, BES, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4J  (Online Only)
Currently Full - - Maybe you’ve been to therapy or deep-dived online for answers, numerous times. You’re also a highly sensitive person, an empath who feels like you are drowning. You are a deep thinker and meaning maker. You have strong values. You struggle to control or feel your emotions, chronically overextend yourself, feel stuck, and experience overwhelm. You may also be in chronic pain or discomfort. You may be neurodiverse. This might look like people pleasing, goodism, overthinking, avoidance, low self-esteem, procrastination, over planning, or burnout.
Currently Full - - Maybe you’ve been to therapy or deep-dived online for answers, numerous times. You’re also a highly sensitive person, an empath who feels like you are drowning. You are a deep thinker and meaning maker. You have strong values. You struggle to control or feel your emotions, chronically overextend yourself, feel stuck, and experience overwhelm. You may also be in chronic pain or discomfort. You may be neurodiverse. This might look like people pleasing, goodism, overthinking, avoidance, low self-esteem, procrastination, over planning, or burnout.
(289) 272-8539 View (289) 272-8539
Photo of Trevor Hart, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Trevor Hart
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Concord, ON L4K
My main therapy model is cognitive-behaviour therapy, which means I help clients to change their ways of thinking and how they engage their lives, in order to help clients to achieve their personal life goals. I also work from a motivational interviewing/counselling framework for people who are seeking to make important life decisions or who need help with making change or improving their health behaviours. I work with patients with problems with anxiety, depression, relationships, problems making life decisions, sexual functioning problems, and coping with chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, HIV, and pain.
My main therapy model is cognitive-behaviour therapy, which means I help clients to change their ways of thinking and how they engage their lives, in order to help clients to achieve their personal life goals. I also work from a motivational interviewing/counselling framework for people who are seeking to make important life decisions or who need help with making change or improving their health behaviours. I work with patients with problems with anxiety, depression, relationships, problems making life decisions, sexual functioning problems, and coping with chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, HIV, and pain.
(647) 977-5896 View (647) 977-5896

See more therapy options for King City

Chronic Pain Counsellors

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophising, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.