Chronic Pain Therapists in Scarborough, ON

Photo of Joanne Pilon - Joanne L Pilon Psychotherapeutic Services, MA, (Ed), RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Joanne L Pilon Psychotherapeutic Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, (Ed), RP
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1E  (Online Only)
Have you experienced a traumatic event that is affecting your life? A traumatic experience from a car accident or from sexual, physical, emotional abuse as a child or an adult can have a major impact on a person's emotional well-being. Trauma treatment can help you move to a position of strength and wholeness and allow you to create the life you want. Common problems we treat include vehicular anxiety, chronic pain, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, sleep disturbance, social withdrawal, appetite disturbance, difficulties with memory and concentration, and changes in relationships.
Have you experienced a traumatic event that is affecting your life? A traumatic experience from a car accident or from sexual, physical, emotional abuse as a child or an adult can have a major impact on a person's emotional well-being. Trauma treatment can help you move to a position of strength and wholeness and allow you to create the life you want. Common problems we treat include vehicular anxiety, chronic pain, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, sleep disturbance, social withdrawal, appetite disturbance, difficulties with memory and concentration, and changes in relationships.
(289) 210-5868 View (289) 210-5868
Photo of Dr. Mehrdad Pojhan, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Mehrdad Pojhan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1S
As a psychologist specializing in clinical and counseling psychology, I help individuals facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and chronic pain.
My clients may struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, or chronic pain and feel overwhelmed by life's challenges. They seek a safe space to explore their thoughts and emotions while gaining practical tools to manage their symptoms. Their goals include improving emotional well-being, enhancing coping strategies, and achieving personal growth. They desire a compassionate professional who understands their unique experiences. With over 30 years of experience and expertise in evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT, I aim to empower them on their journey toward healing and a more fulfilling life.
As a psychologist specializing in clinical and counseling psychology, I help individuals facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and chronic pain.
My clients may struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, or chronic pain and feel overwhelmed by life's challenges. They seek a safe space to explore their thoughts and emotions while gaining practical tools to manage their symptoms. Their goals include improving emotional well-being, enhancing coping strategies, and achieving personal growth. They desire a compassionate professional who understands their unique experiences. With over 30 years of experience and expertise in evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT, I aim to empower them on their journey toward healing and a more fulfilling life.
(289) 272-9034 View (289) 272-9034
Photo of Charmaine Lane, BA, MSc, RP, PhD(c), Registered Psychotherapist
Charmaine Lane
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MSc, RP, PhD(c)
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1J
I work from a holistic, client centred perspective using an intentional anti-oppressive lens when dealing with clients dealing with a variety of clinical and social issues. My approach is rooted in warmth and compassion. I have experience working with a variety of issues such as marriage and Family, transitions such as divorce and separation, social issues in child welfare as it pertains to family reunification and advocacy. I specialize in Racialize Trauma and it's contribution to other mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and mental illness routed in internalized oppression and trauma.
I work from a holistic, client centred perspective using an intentional anti-oppressive lens when dealing with clients dealing with a variety of clinical and social issues. My approach is rooted in warmth and compassion. I have experience working with a variety of issues such as marriage and Family, transitions such as divorce and separation, social issues in child welfare as it pertains to family reunification and advocacy. I specialize in Racialize Trauma and it's contribution to other mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and mental illness routed in internalized oppression and trauma.
(289) 802-2301 View (289) 802-2301
Photo of Mary Badalian, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Mary Badalian
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1W  (Online Only)
Mainly drawing on Strengths-Based Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness and Meditation, I will challenge you to confront the pain, to see your issues in a new light and will support and celebrate you throughout the way! I am probably not your typical therapist and there is very little I haven’t seen or heard in my personal life and practice.
**NOW TAKING NEW VIRTUAL CLIENTS** Greetings and welcome to a world where you can be the captain of your own sail boat and steer it in the direction of your dreams, despite the direction of the winds you may experience! My name is Mary Badalian, a Registered Social Worker for over 7 years, and I am pleased and honoured that you have decided to take the first step in starting your healing story and self-love journey with me. I have a particular interest in the person centred and holistic approaches to therapy, while looking within to find your own strengths and available resources.
Mainly drawing on Strengths-Based Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness and Meditation, I will challenge you to confront the pain, to see your issues in a new light and will support and celebrate you throughout the way! I am probably not your typical therapist and there is very little I haven’t seen or heard in my personal life and practice.
**NOW TAKING NEW VIRTUAL CLIENTS** Greetings and welcome to a world where you can be the captain of your own sail boat and steer it in the direction of your dreams, despite the direction of the winds you may experience! My name is Mary Badalian, a Registered Social Worker for over 7 years, and I am pleased and honoured that you have decided to take the first step in starting your healing story and self-love journey with me. I have a particular interest in the person centred and holistic approaches to therapy, while looking within to find your own strengths and available resources.
(289) 797-3267 View (289) 797-3267
Photo of Diane Holmlund, RP, MAinMS, CASC, Registered Psychotherapist
Diane Holmlund
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MAinMS, CASC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1N  (Online Only)
In a time of so much illness, injustice, and natural, social and political upheaval, how do you find meaning in life, and in your life? Can you create meaning out of the unwanted, the new, or the unknown, as in the time after Covid? Or do you face all too familiar patterns: recent or long-term health issues or diagnoses; employment challenges or family conflict; effects from trauma, dislocation, or isolation; core or changing identity issues; aging, end of life, loss or bereavement? Are you providing care for others through your work or for your own family? What is the story of your life, and what will you now make of it?
In a time of so much illness, injustice, and natural, social and political upheaval, how do you find meaning in life, and in your life? Can you create meaning out of the unwanted, the new, or the unknown, as in the time after Covid? Or do you face all too familiar patterns: recent or long-term health issues or diagnoses; employment challenges or family conflict; effects from trauma, dislocation, or isolation; core or changing identity issues; aging, end of life, loss or bereavement? Are you providing care for others through your work or for your own family? What is the story of your life, and what will you now make of it?
(833) 703-0852 View (833) 703-0852
Photo of Deirdre Carroll - Deirdre Carroll Private Practice Therapy, RP, RSW, Registered Psychotherapist
Deirdre Carroll Private Practice Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1J
Do you feel lost on your path due to a specific issue, or feelings you can't clearly identify? Do you feel stuck and cannot talk to those around you? Or are you lonely and isolated, burned out or emotionally and physically exhausted? Are you looking to understand yourself on a deeper level? Stressors in our everyday lives, Relationships, Systemic Barriers and Trauma from the past can live in us and manifest as Depression, Anxiety, Physical pain and Insomnia. It is painful and uncertain, and can cause a lack of confidence in how to move forward. Therapy is used to explore these issues and gain lifelong tools to support yourself.
Do you feel lost on your path due to a specific issue, or feelings you can't clearly identify? Do you feel stuck and cannot talk to those around you? Or are you lonely and isolated, burned out or emotionally and physically exhausted? Are you looking to understand yourself on a deeper level? Stressors in our everyday lives, Relationships, Systemic Barriers and Trauma from the past can live in us and manifest as Depression, Anxiety, Physical pain and Insomnia. It is painful and uncertain, and can cause a lack of confidence in how to move forward. Therapy is used to explore these issues and gain lifelong tools to support yourself.
(289) 275-9487 View (289) 275-9487
Photo of Salma Jaffer, MSW, RSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker
Salma Jaffer
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1B  (Online Only)
I am offering Televirtual therapy through Zoom and/or Phone. Life is a complex journey! Difficult events can lead to emotional pain, stress, and feelings of isolation not knowing what to do. When frustrated, or feeling out of control, a skillful therapist can walk you through a positive transformation. In this case, therapy is a solution in overcoming life challenges. Together we can pave the way towards reaching a positive and a better place where you can live life to the fullest, with greater personal awareness and personal growth while developing insight leading to a more peaceful life.
I am offering Televirtual therapy through Zoom and/or Phone. Life is a complex journey! Difficult events can lead to emotional pain, stress, and feelings of isolation not knowing what to do. When frustrated, or feeling out of control, a skillful therapist can walk you through a positive transformation. In this case, therapy is a solution in overcoming life challenges. Together we can pave the way towards reaching a positive and a better place where you can live life to the fullest, with greater personal awareness and personal growth while developing insight leading to a more peaceful life.
(416) 846-4732 View (416) 846-4732
Photo of Winnie Ly, MScOT, HBSc, Occupational Therapist
Winnie Ly
Occupational Therapist, MScOT, HBSc
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1P
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 Nancy - Priftis, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Nancy - Priftis
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1R
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 Arshdeep Bath - A&B Counselling and Psychotherapy Services, MACP, BSc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
A&B Counselling and Psychotherapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1B
Navigating trauma, chronic pain, and sleep issues, can be an overwhelming journey, but you don't have to face it alone.
Struggling with trauma, chronic pain, sleep issues, anxiety, or depression? I offer compassionate, trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in English, Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi. I aim to create a supportive environment for healing, recognizing the links between trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. You may feel overwhelmed and seek relief, understanding, and a path to reclaiming your sense of safety. I tailor holistic approaches to help you manage symptoms and enhance your well-being. Whether you're coping with chronic illness or aiming to improve your sleep, I am here to support you
Navigating trauma, chronic pain, and sleep issues, can be an overwhelming journey, but you don't have to face it alone.
Struggling with trauma, chronic pain, sleep issues, anxiety, or depression? I offer compassionate, trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in English, Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi. I aim to create a supportive environment for healing, recognizing the links between trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. You may feel overwhelmed and seek relief, understanding, and a path to reclaiming your sense of safety. I tailor holistic approaches to help you manage symptoms and enhance your well-being. Whether you're coping with chronic illness or aiming to improve your sleep, I am here to support you
(289) 514-0428 View (289) 514-0428
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
3 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1V  (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, and 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, and 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 Dr. Joanna Mitsopulos, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Joanna Mitsopulos
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1B
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Depressed? Fearful? Have you experienced a loss of a loved one? Are you feeling stressed at work? Have trouble concentrating and thinking? Are you cranky and moody? Are family responsibilities overwhelming you? Have you experienced a major trauma? Are you dealing with chronic illness or pain? Do you want to make changes in your life but don't know how or where to begin? Psychotherapy can help you learn ways to cope with negative emotions, sort out life issues, and make changes in your personal and work life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Depressed? Fearful? Have you experienced a loss of a loved one? Are you feeling stressed at work? Have trouble concentrating and thinking? Are you cranky and moody? Are family responsibilities overwhelming you? Have you experienced a major trauma? Are you dealing with chronic illness or pain? Do you want to make changes in your life but don't know how or where to begin? Psychotherapy can help you learn ways to cope with negative emotions, sort out life issues, and make changes in your personal and work life.
(647) 977-5917 View (647) 977-5917
Photo of Taslim Alani-Verjee, PhD, C Psych, Psychologist
Taslim Alani-Verjee
Psychologist, PhD, C Psych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M4A
As a Clinical Psychologist, I have been trained and have the experience of working with clients who experience significant distress and/or mental illness. I can complete psychological assessments, including for the purposes of accommodations at school/work, to access other services, or to help people better understand their difficulties. I also provide psychotherapy, and work to help clients rebuild a fulfilling and meaningful life where they can experience joy, peace and satisfaction.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I have been trained and have the experience of working with clients who experience significant distress and/or mental illness. I can complete psychological assessments, including for the purposes of accommodations at school/work, to access other services, or to help people better understand their difficulties. I also provide psychotherapy, and work to help clients rebuild a fulfilling and meaningful life where they can experience joy, peace and satisfaction.
(647) 951-6730 View (647) 951-6730
Photo of Ding Wang, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Ding Wang
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1B  (Online Only)
Just unheard pain to be healed.
To "lost children" whose feelings, thoughts or existence were not accepted as themselves, resulting in internalized low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and other specific symptoms, you can just be yourself with me. Non-judgmental will not just be a slogan. Your sadness, worries, anger and even hates(towards anyone or oneself), as long as they are part of you, deserve a space to be understood and accepted. Get the courage to be yourself and bring revolution to the world. I will be with you on your journey towards healing.
Just unheard pain to be healed.
To "lost children" whose feelings, thoughts or existence were not accepted as themselves, resulting in internalized low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and other specific symptoms, you can just be yourself with me. Non-judgmental will not just be a slogan. Your sadness, worries, anger and even hates(towards anyone or oneself), as long as they are part of you, deserve a space to be understood and accepted. Get the courage to be yourself and bring revolution to the world. I will be with you on your journey towards healing.
(365) 376-9993 View (365) 376-9993
Photo of Haylee Lough, RSSW, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Haylee Lough
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RSSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1K
These are experiences of anxiety, depression, grief, feeling stuck, low self-esteem, ADHD, chronic pain and illness, substance use concerns, and more.
First, I want to acknowledge that you are here! The journey to finding the right therapist for you can be time consuming and emotional; I know, I’ve been through it myself. I want to recognize the hard work you are doing right now taking this important step to finding peace and clarity in life. Whatever you may be struggling with, I am here to help you gain a deeper understanding and develop a more compassionate relationship with yourself. My approach is person-centered, collaborative and rooted in empathy. This means we will work together to identify ways to live alongside or move past, the challenges you face.
These are experiences of anxiety, depression, grief, feeling stuck, low self-esteem, ADHD, chronic pain and illness, substance use concerns, and more.
First, I want to acknowledge that you are here! The journey to finding the right therapist for you can be time consuming and emotional; I know, I’ve been through it myself. I want to recognize the hard work you are doing right now taking this important step to finding peace and clarity in life. Whatever you may be struggling with, I am here to help you gain a deeper understanding and develop a more compassionate relationship with yourself. My approach is person-centered, collaborative and rooted in empathy. This means we will work together to identify ways to live alongside or move past, the challenges you face.
(365) 536-2280 View (365) 536-2280
Photo of Allison Balkaran, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Allison Balkaran
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1B
Areas of treatment include: Trauma focused therapy, Couples therapy, pain management, existential crises and challenges with depressive and anxious symptoms.
I am by brand, a Rogerian therapist with an eclectic approach to treatment. I tend to marry holistic approaches to evidence based approaches. Creativity flows throughout the therapeutic process and my hope is that therapy can be an enjoyable experience despite the challenges in the therapeutic journey.
Areas of treatment include: Trauma focused therapy, Couples therapy, pain management, existential crises and challenges with depressive and anxious symptoms.
I am by brand, a Rogerian therapist with an eclectic approach to treatment. I tend to marry holistic approaches to evidence based approaches. Creativity flows throughout the therapeutic process and my hope is that therapy can be an enjoyable experience despite the challenges in the therapeutic journey.
(289) 512-2850 View (289) 512-2850
Photo of Liz Dean, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Liz Dean
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1K  (Online Only)
Feeling alone? I would love to support you with therapy personalized to you and your unique needs. Sometimes we find ourselves feeling disconnected, insecure, anxious, angry, sad and exhausted - at ourselves, the world, our family and friends. We don't know what to do about it and it can make us feel utterly alone. Together we can find a path forward so you can move more easily and authentically through life. I work with people experiencing struggles like self-doubt, loneliness, anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic pain or illness, emotional dysregulation and difficulties in relationships or new stages of life.
Feeling alone? I would love to support you with therapy personalized to you and your unique needs. Sometimes we find ourselves feeling disconnected, insecure, anxious, angry, sad and exhausted - at ourselves, the world, our family and friends. We don't know what to do about it and it can make us feel utterly alone. Together we can find a path forward so you can move more easily and authentically through life. I work with people experiencing struggles like self-doubt, loneliness, anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic pain or illness, emotional dysregulation and difficulties in relationships or new stages of life.
(647) 250-9784 View (647) 250-9784
Nomina Wellness
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1R
Are you feeling trapped in a cycle of complex mental health challenges or addictions with little progress despite numerous treatment attempts? At Nōmina Wellness, we understand your pain and frustration. Are you ready to courageously battle treatment-resistant mental health issues or addictions and desperately seek lasting solutions? We recognize your unique struggles and are dedicated to providing the compassionate support and evidence-based interventions you need to reclaim your life.
Are you feeling trapped in a cycle of complex mental health challenges or addictions with little progress despite numerous treatment attempts? At Nōmina Wellness, we understand your pain and frustration. Are you ready to courageously battle treatment-resistant mental health issues or addictions and desperately seek lasting solutions? We recognize your unique struggles and are dedicated to providing the compassionate support and evidence-based interventions you need to reclaim your life.
(844) 908-0305 View (844) 908-0305
Photo of Umesh Poopalarajah, MA, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Umesh Poopalarajah
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1H  (Online Only)
As a passionate advocate for mental health and social justice, my goal is to provide psychotherapy services to BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and underrepresented groups from a strength-based and empowering perspective. I firmly believe that every individual possesses innate resilience and unique strengths that can be harnessed to navigate life's challenges and achieve personal growth..
As a passionate advocate for mental health and social justice, my goal is to provide psychotherapy services to BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and underrepresented groups from a strength-based and empowering perspective. I firmly believe that every individual possesses innate resilience and unique strengths that can be harnessed to navigate life's challenges and achieve personal growth..
(289) 513-3636 View (289) 513-3636
Photo of Madhu Bhardwaj - Dr Madhu Bhardwaj & Associates. (Psychologist), CPsych, Psychologist
Dr Madhu Bhardwaj & Associates. (Psychologist)
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1S  (Online Only)
• Assessment and treatment of MVA cases • WSIB cases • Counselling for Traumatic Brain Injury cases • Adjustment to separation and divorce • Relationship, couple and family counseling • Anxiety, Depression, PTSD etc. • Anger and stress management • Trauma counseling • Improving self –esteem • Motivation • Sleep problems . In Vehicle anxiety.
• Assessment and treatment of MVA cases • WSIB cases • Counselling for Traumatic Brain Injury cases • Adjustment to separation and divorce • Relationship, couple and family counseling • Anxiety, Depression, PTSD etc. • Anger and stress management • Trauma counseling • Improving self –esteem • Motivation • Sleep problems . In Vehicle anxiety.
(647) 371-0543 View (647) 371-0543
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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.