Chronic Pain Therapists in Midland, ON
![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.
![Photo of Juliana Santos, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc2cd5f5-42aa-4d59-b624-f26c62cbbe3e/1/320x400.png)
It can be hard, at times, to balance all life demands. You might experience being disconnected from yourself and others. Maybe you find that your needs are at the bottom of your priority list. In times of uncertainty, more and more, it is not uncommon to face feelings of prolonged stress, anxiety and overwhelm. We mind find ourselves without options to cope, or that the strategies we usually resort to are not getting us far. We might feel getting close to burnout, being stuck on intricate conflicts, or even having to deal with the physical manifestations of distress, such as chronic illnesses and chronic pain.
It can be hard, at times, to balance all life demands. You might experience being disconnected from yourself and others. Maybe you find that your needs are at the bottom of your priority list. In times of uncertainty, more and more, it is not uncommon to face feelings of prolonged stress, anxiety and overwhelm. We mind find ourselves without options to cope, or that the strategies we usually resort to are not getting us far. We might feel getting close to burnout, being stuck on intricate conflicts, or even having to deal with the physical manifestations of distress, such as chronic illnesses and chronic pain.
![Photo of Danielle McFadden - Danielle McFadden - Windswept Wellness, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3667cdb-be3d-493f-9c23-6a10bbbb9814/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle McFadden - Windswept Wellness
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midland, ON L4R
I offer a safe, supportive and calm environment for people of all ages experiencing challenging thoughts and feelings, such as, low mood, lack of motivation, excessive worry, overwhelming stress, and low esteem; those going through difficult life events such as grief and loss, a diagnosis of a serious illness, chronic pain, &/or trauma. I support people experiencing challenging life transitions, such as, adjustment to changes, relationship/family stressors, parenting and caregiver roles. I use various evidence based counselling / therapy strategies that are individually tailored.
I offer a safe, supportive and calm environment for people of all ages experiencing challenging thoughts and feelings, such as, low mood, lack of motivation, excessive worry, overwhelming stress, and low esteem; those going through difficult life events such as grief and loss, a diagnosis of a serious illness, chronic pain, &/or trauma. I support people experiencing challenging life transitions, such as, adjustment to changes, relationship/family stressors, parenting and caregiver roles. I use various evidence based counselling / therapy strategies that are individually tailored.
![Photo of Healey M Gardiner, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5048e11c-fde6-4578-a9e3-8d87d3e16cae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Everyone has their own experiences in life which at times can seem daunting and having an empathic, objective person supporting you can make a massive difference. Whether you are navigating social struggles, understanding your identity, or are needing help recovering from mental illness, you are not alone and I am here to help. I fully believe everyone is unique, we all have our own unique brains and walk unique paths. This means there are treatments, and these need to be adapted to fit each unique person. I approach each client with an empathic, collaborative, and integrative approach considering your personal identity.
Everyone has their own experiences in life which at times can seem daunting and having an empathic, objective person supporting you can make a massive difference. Whether you are navigating social struggles, understanding your identity, or are needing help recovering from mental illness, you are not alone and I am here to help. I fully believe everyone is unique, we all have our own unique brains and walk unique paths. This means there are treatments, and these need to be adapted to fit each unique person. I approach each client with an empathic, collaborative, and integrative approach considering your personal identity.
![Photo of Karen A Wilson, MACP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c775db08-90c4-4aed-9a03-4e9dc5bf35d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Your therapy journey is about empowering you to navigate challenges, such as: Making a life-changing decision. Coping with intolerable stress, anxiety, anger, sadness, or grief. Managing a difficult relationship. Managing chronic pain or other overwhelming condition. Figuring out who you are as you find yourself again. Resolving restlessness. Disempowering shame and feelings of not being good enough. Coping with isolation and/or rejection. Dealing with a stressful diagnosis. Your therapy is a place to feel heard, understood, and respected. Hope and compassion help you heal from painful experiences of the past, and live more freely.
Your therapy journey is about empowering you to navigate challenges, such as: Making a life-changing decision. Coping with intolerable stress, anxiety, anger, sadness, or grief. Managing a difficult relationship. Managing chronic pain or other overwhelming condition. Figuring out who you are as you find yourself again. Resolving restlessness. Disempowering shame and feelings of not being good enough. Coping with isolation and/or rejection. Dealing with a stressful diagnosis. Your therapy is a place to feel heard, understood, and respected. Hope and compassion help you heal from painful experiences of the past, and live more freely.
![Photo of Tina Stanley, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4093729a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
A warm welcome! I believe in change, I believe in possibility and I believe in potential. Therapy is growth. It's taking you from where you are right now and guiding you gently to where you want to be through education, empowerment, experience, personal commitment and practice. At Touchstone Healing your feelings, emotions, beliefs and pain stories are explored in a safe, relaxed environment dedicated to honor and validate your experience. We then work together with the goal of moving into acceptance and release to create space for a more positive and meaningful experience of life.
A warm welcome! I believe in change, I believe in possibility and I believe in potential. Therapy is growth. It's taking you from where you are right now and guiding you gently to where you want to be through education, empowerment, experience, personal commitment and practice. At Touchstone Healing your feelings, emotions, beliefs and pain stories are explored in a safe, relaxed environment dedicated to honor and validate your experience. We then work together with the goal of moving into acceptance and release to create space for a more positive and meaningful experience of life.
![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
Midland, ON L4R (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 Whitney Taman, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31a3030d-04bb-4833-baa4-12c6492bc97e/2/320x400.png)
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself or others? Are you just getting through the day? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed or underwhelmed, irritable, hopeless or lost? Do you find it difficult to maintain meaningful relationships, function day to day or in your career? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, depressed and uncertain about how to feel better. Therapy can help you grow and evolve more quickly than you have before. I prioritize creating a safe and comfortable experience by offering holistic and personalized approach.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself or others? Are you just getting through the day? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed or underwhelmed, irritable, hopeless or lost? Do you find it difficult to maintain meaningful relationships, function day to day or in your career? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, depressed and uncertain about how to feel better. Therapy can help you grow and evolve more quickly than you have before. I prioritize creating a safe and comfortable experience by offering holistic and personalized approach.
![Photo of Donna Gordon, MSW, RSW, RYT, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6fb5167e-ea43-49cf-805d-8ad757502bff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Donna Gordon
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, ON L4R (Online Only)
Donna is a registered clinical social worker, practicing psychotherapist, and registered yoga teacher. She embraces the value of the therapeutic relationship and provides a relaxed, non-judgmental and supportive atmosphere in her practice. She believes that it is a privilege to work alongside clients and that healing is a collaborative endeavour where she assists clients in clarifying their goals for treatment on their journey to wellness. All work is client-centred and purposeful.
Donna is a registered clinical social worker, practicing psychotherapist, and registered yoga teacher. She embraces the value of the therapeutic relationship and provides a relaxed, non-judgmental and supportive atmosphere in her practice. She believes that it is a privilege to work alongside clients and that healing is a collaborative endeavour where she assists clients in clarifying their goals for treatment on their journey to wellness. All work is client-centred and purposeful.
![Photo of Kari Loyst, RP, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e3d986f-5ef1-4411-aa12-4f0241ea2d4e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kari Loyst
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, ON L4R (Online Only)
Navigating the struggles of the human experience is not easy. Traumatic events, times of stress, life transitions, grief, loss, and change can be unsettling and feel overwhelming at times. With support, these situations can offer opportunities for growth and transformation. We can work together to re-establish strengths and face challenges through compassionate, client-centred, non-judgemental, collaborative goal-setting, skill development, and meaning-making.
Navigating the struggles of the human experience is not easy. Traumatic events, times of stress, life transitions, grief, loss, and change can be unsettling and feel overwhelming at times. With support, these situations can offer opportunities for growth and transformation. We can work together to re-establish strengths and face challenges through compassionate, client-centred, non-judgemental, collaborative goal-setting, skill development, and meaning-making.
![Photo of Henry Obanor, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85f8a602-75e7-4bf3-86a4-a7d2872e3be8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide a judgement free space and therapeutic counselling. I have worked extensively with youths, adults, couples and families in various capacities. With over 11 years of social work and counselling experience, I am knowledgeable and equipped to provide you with safe, confidential and effective counselling. I will work collaboratively with you as you gain the knowledge and skills you need to address your concerns and achieve your goals.
I provide a judgement free space and therapeutic counselling. I have worked extensively with youths, adults, couples and families in various capacities. With over 11 years of social work and counselling experience, I am knowledgeable and equipped to provide you with safe, confidential and effective counselling. I will work collaboratively with you as you gain the knowledge and skills you need to address your concerns and achieve your goals.
15 Second Videos
Cortney Lacroix
Danielle McFadden - Windswept Wellness
Healey M Gardiner
The Dot Canada
Samantha Arnold
![Photo of The Dot Collingwood - The Dot Canada, RP, RSW, MA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afd49f58-0325-44d8-952e-34b15ebc4ba7/1/320x400.png)
The Dot Canada
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RSW, MA
Verified Verified
Midland, ON L4R (Online Only)
It's not just you, life HAS gotten harder in the last few years. If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
It's not just you, life HAS gotten harder in the last few years. If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
![Photo of Samantha Arnold, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26df5cbb-4e4b-434c-b568-4ed6eeb173c3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Arnold
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midland, ON L4R (Online Only)
Hi I'm Samantha and I'm so glad you're here. In therapy I will walk alongside you –meeting you with warmth, patience, curiosity, and openness. I'll show up without judgment or expectation and hope to create a space that feels comforting and safe to you. My approach to therapy is collaborative and informed by an anti-oppressive, feminist, and trauma-informed lens. Together we'll create a rhythm for therapy that honours your individual experiences, values, and needs. I’m passionate about supporting clients who have been stigmatised, marginalized, or misunderstood.
Hi I'm Samantha and I'm so glad you're here. In therapy I will walk alongside you –meeting you with warmth, patience, curiosity, and openness. I'll show up without judgment or expectation and hope to create a space that feels comforting and safe to you. My approach to therapy is collaborative and informed by an anti-oppressive, feminist, and trauma-informed lens. Together we'll create a rhythm for therapy that honours your individual experiences, values, and needs. I’m passionate about supporting clients who have been stigmatised, marginalized, or misunderstood.
![Photo of Trisha Obanor, BScN, MSW, RSW, EMDR, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5113a8b-1f30-46d9-8faa-9fbb8fe2656e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Finding the right support for life challenges can be stressful and discouraging. I provide a non-judgemental and safe space in which you and I can work together towards your desired outcomes. With over 14 years of nursing experience and my social work background, I am in a unique position of being able to provide a truly holistic approach to therapy. I foster a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship to address concerns that are specific to each client. My approach focuses on developing life skills, building strengths and positive coping skills.
Finding the right support for life challenges can be stressful and discouraging. I provide a non-judgemental and safe space in which you and I can work together towards your desired outcomes. With over 14 years of nursing experience and my social work background, I am in a unique position of being able to provide a truly holistic approach to therapy. I foster a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship to address concerns that are specific to each client. My approach focuses on developing life skills, building strengths and positive coping skills.
![Photo of Danielle Kirshenbaum, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7fe08a1-bd5d-4c55-a52d-18d854ddd206/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Kirshenbaum
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, ON L4R (Online Only)
Are you battling against intrusive thoughts? Anxiety that seems hard to manage? Overwhelmed or feeling stuck? You may fear that these feelings will last forever. I'm here to tell you that they absolutely don't have to! Together, we'll learn new tools to overcome this tough period so you feel grounded and at ease. Whether it is OCD, anxiety, depression, a new (or older!) baby or general life stressors affecting your mood and day-to-day functioning, I am here to figure it out with you.
Are you battling against intrusive thoughts? Anxiety that seems hard to manage? Overwhelmed or feeling stuck? You may fear that these feelings will last forever. I'm here to tell you that they absolutely don't have to! Together, we'll learn new tools to overcome this tough period so you feel grounded and at ease. Whether it is OCD, anxiety, depression, a new (or older!) baby or general life stressors affecting your mood and day-to-day functioning, I am here to figure it out with you.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Brendan Mclarty (Psychotherapy For You), MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2437afb-619c-4281-905c-fbaf818e297f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brendan Mclarty (Psychotherapy For You)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Penetanguishene, ON L9M (Online Only)
grief and/or chronic illness.
My name is Brendan and I am a Registered Social Worker. I hold a Masters degree is Social Work from the University of Toronto. I provide virtual counselling to individuals living in Ontario. Encountering issues, no matter the severity, is a normal and natural part of our lives. However, it is my belief that our unique life experiences require a personalized approach to help us reach our goals in the face of adversity. One size does not fit all. Sessions with me are experiential in nature, with a focus on developing present moment awareness of one’s inner and outer world. Every person possesses an expert knowledge of themselves.
grief and/or chronic illness.
My name is Brendan and I am a Registered Social Worker. I hold a Masters degree is Social Work from the University of Toronto. I provide virtual counselling to individuals living in Ontario. Encountering issues, no matter the severity, is a normal and natural part of our lives. However, it is my belief that our unique life experiences require a personalized approach to help us reach our goals in the face of adversity. One size does not fit all. Sessions with me are experiential in nature, with a focus on developing present moment awareness of one’s inner and outer world. Every person possesses an expert knowledge of themselves.
![Photo of Sarah Durant, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bd20fe9-3de7-46a6-a4f2-b8f1d2055915/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and have been treating clients both individually and in groups since 2007. My primary focus has been working with complex populations with both mental health and substance use concerns. I have extensive training and experience in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Training, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), treating adult survivors of trauma / PTSD, Core Mindfulness Skills as well as in a variety of other best practice, evidence based treatments. I provide treatment in a professional, confidential and comfortable environment.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and have been treating clients both individually and in groups since 2007. My primary focus has been working with complex populations with both mental health and substance use concerns. I have extensive training and experience in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Training, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), treating adult survivors of trauma / PTSD, Core Mindfulness Skills as well as in a variety of other best practice, evidence based treatments. I provide treatment in a professional, confidential and comfortable environment.
![Photo of Carol Alexander - Carol Alexander @ Psychotherapy for You, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3f02cb0-66f1-4740-aad3-f2a22ee46e26/3/320x400.jpeg)
Carol Alexander @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Penetanguishene, ON L9M (Online Only)
I am Registered Clinical Counsellor and a Registered Psychotherapist. I work with adults, children, and families providing client centered, attachment focused interventions. My work is based in attachment theory, examining the relationships within your life. Your sense of belonging, and how you see yourself and the world depends greatly on your experiences in your family of origin. As a therapist and consultant, my area of focus in supporting families involves strengthening the parent child relationship. I coach parents to parent in a way that provides insight to their child's inner world while gaining an empathetic
I am Registered Clinical Counsellor and a Registered Psychotherapist. I work with adults, children, and families providing client centered, attachment focused interventions. My work is based in attachment theory, examining the relationships within your life. Your sense of belonging, and how you see yourself and the world depends greatly on your experiences in your family of origin. As a therapist and consultant, my area of focus in supporting families involves strengthening the parent child relationship. I coach parents to parent in a way that provides insight to their child's inner world while gaining an empathetic
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.
See more therapy options for Midland
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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.