Chronic Pain Therapists in Richmond Hill, ON

Photo of Nada Elfeki, MEd, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Nada Elfeki
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, MSc
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
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 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 for one another. Many people who contact me have been told they may be an ideal candidate for EMDR. Others may have sought traditional talk therapy 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 for one another. Many people who contact me have been told they may be an ideal candidate for EMDR. Others may have sought traditional talk therapy 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 Rui Tian, MA, PCPain, Registered Psychotherapist
Rui Tian
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, PCPain
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L3T  (Online Only)
practicing psychotherapy, clinical supervision, life coaching, consultation, training, and counselling through individual, couple family, and group formats. expertise in imental health (e.g. anxiety, depression, trauma); addictions (substances, problem gambling, eating, sex, and internet); concurrent disorders; developmental disability (ASD, MID, LD, ADHD, ODD); dual diagnosis; rehabilitation (MVA, WSIB, OWN, LTD, RTW, mTBI, and traumatic injuries); chronic illness ( chronic pain and other chronic medical conditions); return to work, parenting (child and youth); couples and marital relationship, personal wellbeing/development.
practicing psychotherapy, clinical supervision, life coaching, consultation, training, and counselling through individual, couple family, and group formats. expertise in imental health (e.g. anxiety, depression, trauma); addictions (substances, problem gambling, eating, sex, and internet); concurrent disorders; developmental disability (ASD, MID, LD, ADHD, ODD); dual diagnosis; rehabilitation (MVA, WSIB, OWN, LTD, RTW, mTBI, and traumatic injuries); chronic illness ( chronic pain and other chronic medical conditions); return to work, parenting (child and youth); couples and marital relationship, personal wellbeing/development.
(289) 207-6489 View (289) 207-6489
Photo of Aastha Jain, Registered Psychotherapist
Aastha Jain
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4B  (Online Only)
Trauma, immigration related difficulties, and anxiety psychotherapist. You may be considering therapy to understand yourself better, or you may be going through some intense emotional pain and want relief. The reasons you are seeking therapy could be due to depression, panic attacks, relationship difficulties, feeling ‘empty’ or ‘stuck’. At times it may feel like traumatic experiences from the past are still affecting you in unexplainable ways. You may have experienced a deep loss, it could be the loss of a loved one, one’s homeland, or the loss in terms of unlived life. Whatever your reason might be, your feelings are valid.
Trauma, immigration related difficulties, and anxiety psychotherapist. You may be considering therapy to understand yourself better, or you may be going through some intense emotional pain and want relief. The reasons you are seeking therapy could be due to depression, panic attacks, relationship difficulties, feeling ‘empty’ or ‘stuck’. At times it may feel like traumatic experiences from the past are still affecting you in unexplainable ways. You may have experienced a deep loss, it could be the loss of a loved one, one’s homeland, or the loss in terms of unlived life. Whatever your reason might be, your feelings are valid.
(289) 206-7300 View (289) 206-7300
Photo of Jinglan (Maggie) Xie, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Jinglan (Maggie) Xie
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
Life is short yet long; sometimes, happiness feels fleeting, and most of the time, we face various challenges: a family of origin, academic pressure, romantic relationships, marriage, parenting, career anxiety, illness, grief, life transitions, etc. When facing these big and small "hurdles," do you also find yourself pulled by different voices within, in need of a place where you can be seen and heard? Fate may play tricks on us, but who knows if this is not an opportunity for growth? I am willing to create a safe, warm space where we can listen to those voices, understand our different needs and find meaning in our experiences.
Life is short yet long; sometimes, happiness feels fleeting, and most of the time, we face various challenges: a family of origin, academic pressure, romantic relationships, marriage, parenting, career anxiety, illness, grief, life transitions, etc. When facing these big and small "hurdles," do you also find yourself pulled by different voices within, in need of a place where you can be seen and heard? Fate may play tricks on us, but who knows if this is not an opportunity for growth? I am willing to create a safe, warm space where we can listen to those voices, understand our different needs and find meaning in our experiences.
(289) 277-4984 View (289) 277-4984
Photo of Sara Saniee, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sara Saniee
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
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 Kamie Cheng - Abloom Therapy: Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, MACP, BFA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Abloom Therapy: Anxiety, Depression, Relationships
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4C  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who wish to explore anger management, anxiety, behavioural issues, body positivity, career guidance, chronic pain, depression, grief, racial identity, relationship issues, self esteem, stress, & more.
Hi, I'm Kamie Cheng, a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying). With my 20 years of experience working in art instruction and community engagement, I bring a unique blend of creativity, empathy, and cultural sensitivity to my therapeutic practice. Life can be complex, and if you're feeling lost or frustrated, you're not alone. In our sessions, I'll walk alongside you, respecting your pace and unique approach to overcoming challenges. My practice is grounded in trauma and culturally-informed perspectives, shaped by years of working with diverse populations including - adults, students, parents, artists, LGBTQ+ , and immigrants.
I work with individuals who wish to explore anger management, anxiety, behavioural issues, body positivity, career guidance, chronic pain, depression, grief, racial identity, relationship issues, self esteem, stress, & more.
Hi, I'm Kamie Cheng, a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying). With my 20 years of experience working in art instruction and community engagement, I bring a unique blend of creativity, empathy, and cultural sensitivity to my therapeutic practice. Life can be complex, and if you're feeling lost or frustrated, you're not alone. In our sessions, I'll walk alongside you, respecting your pace and unique approach to overcoming challenges. My practice is grounded in trauma and culturally-informed perspectives, shaped by years of working with diverse populations including - adults, students, parents, artists, LGBTQ+ , and immigrants.
(365) 398-8071 View (365) 398-8071
Photo of Carly Elmalem, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Carly Elmalem
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
I combine neurobiologically-informed modalities including somatic therapy, EMDR, mindfulness, IFS and trauma-informed CBT to help my clients integrate the pain of their past and move from stuckness to wellness.
Has "getting by" become a way of life? Are you feeling hijacked by anxiety, stuck in cyclical low mood, or simply overwhelmed in relationship dynamics? Toxic stress and trauma destabilize our nervous system and shake up our sense of safety and control. In therapy, we open the doorway to understanding and neutralizing the roots of your triggers. Trauma-informed therapy works to stabilize your brain and body so that surviving transforms into thriving. It empowers you to restore balance within... to become the architect of your mind... and to cultivate a resilient self, unburdened by the past or life's circumstances.
I combine neurobiologically-informed modalities including somatic therapy, EMDR, mindfulness, IFS and trauma-informed CBT to help my clients integrate the pain of their past and move from stuckness to wellness.
Has "getting by" become a way of life? Are you feeling hijacked by anxiety, stuck in cyclical low mood, or simply overwhelmed in relationship dynamics? Toxic stress and trauma destabilize our nervous system and shake up our sense of safety and control. In therapy, we open the doorway to understanding and neutralizing the roots of your triggers. Trauma-informed therapy works to stabilize your brain and body so that surviving transforms into thriving. It empowers you to restore balance within... to become the architect of your mind... and to cultivate a resilient self, unburdened by the past or life's circumstances.
(647) 797-9661 View (647) 797-9661
Photo of Shaahin (Ghaffar) Malek Khosravi, PhD, RP(Q), OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Shaahin (Ghaffar) Malek Khosravi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), PhD, RP(Q), OAMHP
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
Sometimes we are mentally injured by events or accidents in our lives; they can cause shallow or deep wounds and trauma to our emotions. In some cases, we scratch our wounds unconsciously and worsen them instead of accepting and healing them compassionately. Uncompassionate focus on our injuries or pain can negatively impact our quality of life. They may bring stress, anxiety, depression, and other uncomfortable feelings. Counselling can soothe wounds and ease pain. I try to help you heal those wounds and improve your health. I will be there with you throughout this journey by listening to you and gaining insight together.
Sometimes we are mentally injured by events or accidents in our lives; they can cause shallow or deep wounds and trauma to our emotions. In some cases, we scratch our wounds unconsciously and worsen them instead of accepting and healing them compassionately. Uncompassionate focus on our injuries or pain can negatively impact our quality of life. They may bring stress, anxiety, depression, and other uncomfortable feelings. Counselling can soothe wounds and ease pain. I try to help you heal those wounds and improve your health. I will be there with you throughout this journey by listening to you and gaining insight together.
(289) 597-9080 View (289) 597-9080
Photo of Nancy - Priftis, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Nancy - Priftis
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
Anxiety, panic disorders, depression, stress, pain management and parenting life transitions.
As a therapist I aim to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can discuss personal and sensitive issues. I will work collaboratively with you to help you find the solutions that are best for you. Through psychotherapy you can explore negative emotions, gain insight to problematic thoughts and behaviours and learn healthy coping strategies that will help to rebuild your self confidence. If you are feeling depressed, anxious, stressed or overwhelmed therapy can help you overcome these feelings. If you are struggling in your relationships, therapy can help you create more satisfying and meaningful relationships.
Anxiety, panic disorders, depression, stress, pain management and parenting life transitions.
As a therapist I aim to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can discuss personal and sensitive issues. I will work collaboratively with you to help you find the solutions that are best for you. Through psychotherapy you can explore negative emotions, gain insight to problematic thoughts and behaviours and learn healthy coping strategies that will help to rebuild your self confidence. If you are feeling depressed, anxious, stressed or overwhelmed therapy can help you overcome these feelings. If you are struggling in your relationships, therapy can help you create more satisfying and meaningful relationships.
(647) 952-6412 View (647) 952-6412
Photo of Elle Norine Bradley, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Elle Norine Bradley
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
Elle is committed to helping clients heal. She works from various modalities to help integrate various aspects of the personality to overcome a variety of issues such as addiction, anxiety, depression, personality issues, relationship issues and chronic pain. Elle's ultimate goal is to assist others to use their inner wisdom to make changes that promote lasting happiness and authentic power.
Elle is committed to helping clients heal. She works from various modalities to help integrate various aspects of the personality to overcome a variety of issues such as addiction, anxiety, depression, personality issues, relationship issues and chronic pain. Elle's ultimate goal is to assist others to use their inner wisdom to make changes that promote lasting happiness and authentic power.
(855) 981-6190 View (855) 981-6190
Photo of Mark Silverstein, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Mark Silverstein
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L3T
When you read the following out loud do they resonate with you? Do you often sabotage your own best intentions for yourself. Have you, or someone you love(d), experienced a life altering medical event and need to make sense of it all. Do you have trouble saying "no" to everyone but yourself? Are you thinking about transitioning your life in another direction? Do unrealistic expectations of yourself and others cause you constant pain? Are you ready to accept that you can control how you feel, and how you respond to others.
When you read the following out loud do they resonate with you? Do you often sabotage your own best intentions for yourself. Have you, or someone you love(d), experienced a life altering medical event and need to make sense of it all. Do you have trouble saying "no" to everyone but yourself? Are you thinking about transitioning your life in another direction? Do unrealistic expectations of yourself and others cause you constant pain? Are you ready to accept that you can control how you feel, and how you respond to others.
(855) 976-0988 View (855) 976-0988
Photo of Dr. Sangeeta Arya Tanwar, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Sangeeta Arya Tanwar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
I provide treatment for adults with issues of depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Skin Picking, Body Image Issues, Fears/ Phobia, Chronic pain, Eating Disorders/disordered eating, interpersonal challenges, anger, adjustment to life transitions and parenting, stress and sleep issues. I also provide WSIB and return to work assessment service.
I provide treatment for adults with issues of depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Skin Picking, Body Image Issues, Fears/ Phobia, Chronic pain, Eating Disorders/disordered eating, interpersonal challenges, anger, adjustment to life transitions and parenting, stress and sleep issues. I also provide WSIB and return to work assessment service.
(289) 206-9891 View (289) 206-9891
Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L3T  (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.
(437) 747-8880 View (437) 747-8880
Photo of Winnie Ly, MScOT, HBSc, Occupational Therapist
Winnie Ly
Occupational Therapist, MScOT, HBSc
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
I am an Occupational Therapist with experience including concussion/brain injury, ADHD, depression, anxiety, sleep issues, chronic pain, Autism, and PTSD.
It can be difficult to adjust to change and transitions, especially against the post-pandemic landscape. Maybe you’re experiencing workplace/school stress, burnout, changes in mood, feeling out of control, or difficulty finding a balanced routine. It can be helpful to have someone in your corner.
I am an Occupational Therapist with experience including concussion/brain injury, ADHD, depression, anxiety, sleep issues, chronic pain, Autism, and PTSD.
It can be difficult to adjust to change and transitions, especially against the post-pandemic landscape. Maybe you’re experiencing workplace/school stress, burnout, changes in mood, feeling out of control, or difficulty finding a balanced routine. It can be helpful to have someone in your corner.
(289) 512-2238 View (289) 512-2238
Photo of Leila Abbaszadeh, MSW, RSW, RP, Registered Social Worker
Leila Abbaszadeh
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
Leila Abbaszadeh, MSW, RSW, RP is a Registered Social Worker (OCSWSSW) and a Registered Psychotherapist (CRPO). She is an individual, couple and family therapist. She also administers psychosocial assessments for motor vehicle accident victims. She provides solution-focused and strengths-based treatment for individuals and couples.
Leila Abbaszadeh, MSW, RSW, RP is a Registered Social Worker (OCSWSSW) and a Registered Psychotherapist (CRPO). She is an individual, couple and family therapist. She also administers psychosocial assessments for motor vehicle accident victims. She provides solution-focused and strengths-based treatment for individuals and couples.
(888) 539-9221 View (888) 539-9221
Photo of Maneet Bhatia - Bhatia Psychology Group, PhD, Psychologist
Bhatia Psychology Group
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
Bhatia Psychology Group provides individual and couples therapy to help you build a mentally healthier and happier life. Our team features clinical psychologists, social workers, and registered psychotherapists. We more than therapists — we are caring, compassionate and committed individuals guiding you on a path to happiness, self-love and inner peace. We are here to help if you are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship challenges or more.
Bhatia Psychology Group provides individual and couples therapy to help you build a mentally healthier and happier life. Our team features clinical psychologists, social workers, and registered psychotherapists. We more than therapists — we are caring, compassionate and committed individuals guiding you on a path to happiness, self-love and inner peace. We are here to help if you are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship challenges or more.
(289) 805-3520 View (289) 805-3520
Photo of Barry Hogeboom - First Step Men's Therapy (No Waitlist), MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
First Step Men's Therapy (No Waitlist)
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4B  (Online Only)
Stuck - broken - powerless - disconnected. Many men come to me seeking change. Perhaps you are feeling lost, broken, stuck, hopeless, disconnected or lacking purpose. I have always been drawn to people, and over time grown deep appreciation for the value of sharing and listening intentionally. You may feel you are alone in the world, and that nobody understands you. You may question whether you are a good partner, father, or son. Even worse, you may struggle with addiction, grief, anxiety, depression, or another mental health challenge. Ready to get started? Book a free 20-minute consultation - No waitlist - Click the "website" link
Stuck - broken - powerless - disconnected. Many men come to me seeking change. Perhaps you are feeling lost, broken, stuck, hopeless, disconnected or lacking purpose. I have always been drawn to people, and over time grown deep appreciation for the value of sharing and listening intentionally. You may feel you are alone in the world, and that nobody understands you. You may question whether you are a good partner, father, or son. Even worse, you may struggle with addiction, grief, anxiety, depression, or another mental health challenge. Ready to get started? Book a free 20-minute consultation - No waitlist - Click the "website" link
(343) 453-5084 View (343) 453-5084
Photo of Aminah Al-Hashimi, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Aminah Al-Hashimi
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4E  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Social Worker and psychotherapist with 17 years of experience in the field of mental health, and have worked alongside children, youth, adults , and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, parent-child conflict, relationships, adjustment to life’s transitions, and trauma. I believe the individual is the expert of their own lives and sometimes may need support to navigate through their own inner struggles. Healing occurs differently for everyone, and there is never a one-size fits all approach. Allow me to help you each step of the way and to work in collaboration to improve your overall quality of life.
I am a Registered Social Worker and psychotherapist with 17 years of experience in the field of mental health, and have worked alongside children, youth, adults , and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, parent-child conflict, relationships, adjustment to life’s transitions, and trauma. I believe the individual is the expert of their own lives and sometimes may need support to navigate through their own inner struggles. Healing occurs differently for everyone, and there is never a one-size fits all approach. Allow me to help you each step of the way and to work in collaboration to improve your overall quality of life.
(289) 276-4754 View (289) 276-4754
Photo of Ariana Adibrad, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Ariana Adibrad
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker who exclusively work with children, teens and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma and ADHD. I also help teens and adults in their career development journeys and body positivity by helping teens embrace their unique selves and develop healthy relationship with their bodies. My goal is to empower clients to cultivate self love and confidence. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Wilfred Laurier University in Kitchener, Ontario.
I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker who exclusively work with children, teens and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma and ADHD. I also help teens and adults in their career development journeys and body positivity by helping teens embrace their unique selves and develop healthy relationship with their bodies. My goal is to empower clients to cultivate self love and confidence. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Wilfred Laurier University in Kitchener, Ontario.
(289) 807-0907 View (289) 807-0907
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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.