Chronic Pain Counselling in West London, London

Photo of Alice DIANA Peterson - Alice Peterson, Psychotherapy and Counselling, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Alice Peterson, Psychotherapy and Counselling
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
West London, London W6
Hello, I'm Alice. I'm a person-centred psychotherapist and counsellor. I have learned people often don’t need advice or solutions. They need someone who will listen, care and understand them. From both personal and professional experience, I have a deep understanding of the challenges many of us face in life. I can help you if you are struggling with difficulties such as grief, relationship issues, suicidal thoughts, or you are living with chronic pain and disability. Or perhaps you are feeling really anxious and depressed and you just don’t understand why but need somebody to talk to.
Hello, I'm Alice. I'm a person-centred psychotherapist and counsellor. I have learned people often don’t need advice or solutions. They need someone who will listen, care and understand them. From both personal and professional experience, I have a deep understanding of the challenges many of us face in life. I can help you if you are struggling with difficulties such as grief, relationship issues, suicidal thoughts, or you are living with chronic pain and disability. Or perhaps you are feeling really anxious and depressed and you just don’t understand why but need somebody to talk to.
020 8016 3674 View 020 8016 3674
Photo of Dawn Hill, MUKCP, Counsellor
Dawn Hill
Counsellor, MUKCP
Verified Verified
West London, London W4
My experience includes a wide range of issues to include anxiety, bereavement, pain & stress to support ages from adolescence to elderly years in a variety of healthcare, NHS, public, private, corporate & educational settings.
Hello I'm Dawn, are you recognising something is not right with yourself or somebody you care about? Maybe you're struggling to manage in these difficult times or have been struggling for a long time now? - It's time to seek help by reaching out. I offer a safe relational style of engagement to listen and help identify and deal with what is upsetting your well-being & full life.
My experience includes a wide range of issues to include anxiety, bereavement, pain & stress to support ages from adolescence to elderly years in a variety of healthcare, NHS, public, private, corporate & educational settings.
Hello I'm Dawn, are you recognising something is not right with yourself or somebody you care about? Maybe you're struggling to manage in these difficult times or have been struggling for a long time now? - It's time to seek help by reaching out. I offer a safe relational style of engagement to listen and help identify and deal with what is upsetting your well-being & full life.
01748 901830 View 01748 901830
Photo of Julia Sinclair, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Julia Sinclair
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W4
I have a particular interest in physical health conditions such as chronic pain and CFS.
I know how difficult it is to find a therapist you can trust for help with your emotional and psychological difficulties. Sometimes our suffering is concealed from friends, family or colleagues because we are good at hiding it but deep inside, we are left feeling far from happy, fulfilled or content. At other times our difficulties are more noticeable. I am passionate about helping people live better lives. I help them discover what matters to them, what type of person they want to be and how they would like to behave. Once their values are clarified I help them make sustainable changes towards the things that are important to them.
I have a particular interest in physical health conditions such as chronic pain and CFS.
I know how difficult it is to find a therapist you can trust for help with your emotional and psychological difficulties. Sometimes our suffering is concealed from friends, family or colleagues because we are good at hiding it but deep inside, we are left feeling far from happy, fulfilled or content. At other times our difficulties are more noticeable. I am passionate about helping people live better lives. I help them discover what matters to them, what type of person they want to be and how they would like to behave. Once their values are clarified I help them make sustainable changes towards the things that are important to them.
01748 902305 View 01748 902305
Photo of Christina Theo - Chronic Relief Expert, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Christina Theo - Chronic Relief Expert
Psychologist, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
West London, London W1G
Imagine waking up every day bursting with vitality, free from chronic pain and emotional discomfort.
Whatever issue my clients bring to their first session, 95% find complete resolution within five sessions — and 100% experience significant relief after just one.
Imagine waking up every day bursting with vitality, free from chronic pain and emotional discomfort.
Whatever issue my clients bring to their first session, 95% find complete resolution within five sessions — and 100% experience significant relief after just one.
020 7870 1170 View 020 7870 1170
Photo of Ting Chiu, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Ting Chiu
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West London, London W1G  (Online Only)
I work effectively on a range of human distresses, and I specialise in the psychological difficulties associated with physical health, such as ‘Long COVID’, chronic pain, and higher weights.
Having worked with many clients over the years, I have a good understanding of what human distress looks like. Often, we try to push the difficult feelings (both physical and emotional) aside and just ‘get on with it’. Sure enough, it works for a while, but then there comes a point when the usual coping strategies just stop working, and reaching out for help feels somehow wrong too; life feels stuck in vicious circles. If this sounds frustratingly familiar, then you are not alone. With my extensive experience, I can support you to reach your goals, or simply to figure out together first what the goals might be.
I work effectively on a range of human distresses, and I specialise in the psychological difficulties associated with physical health, such as ‘Long COVID’, chronic pain, and higher weights.
Having worked with many clients over the years, I have a good understanding of what human distress looks like. Often, we try to push the difficult feelings (both physical and emotional) aside and just ‘get on with it’. Sure enough, it works for a while, but then there comes a point when the usual coping strategies just stop working, and reaching out for help feels somehow wrong too; life feels stuck in vicious circles. If this sounds frustratingly familiar, then you are not alone. With my extensive experience, I can support you to reach your goals, or simply to figure out together first what the goals might be.
01684 218544 View 01684 218544
Photo of Eirini Perantoni, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Eirini Perantoni
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W2  (Online Only)
Sometimes people believe that their issue is not "worthy" of receiving the therapist's attention, but this is never the case. I am here to offer you a safe, calm, confidential, non-judgmental space, and listen to whatever you want to bring into therapy, no matter how serious or benign you might be finding it. Certain issues that you might want to address in therapy include: anxiety, depression, chronic illness and pain, family and/or relationship issues, academic and/or work pressures and stress, as well as cultural and identity issues.
Sometimes people believe that their issue is not "worthy" of receiving the therapist's attention, but this is never the case. I am here to offer you a safe, calm, confidential, non-judgmental space, and listen to whatever you want to bring into therapy, no matter how serious or benign you might be finding it. Certain issues that you might want to address in therapy include: anxiety, depression, chronic illness and pain, family and/or relationship issues, academic and/or work pressures and stress, as well as cultural and identity issues.
View
Photo of Gemma Jones, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Gemma Jones
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West London, London W10
Hi, my name is Gemma and I’m a Clinical Psychologist with 20 years experience in the NHS and independent practise. I specialise in supporting people who are experiencing psychological difficulties due to a physical health problem, perhaps from illness, injury, a medical problem or a long -term condition. I have particular interest and expertise in pain management, oncology, palliative care and women's health (e.g. peri-menopause, fertility).
Hi, my name is Gemma and I’m a Clinical Psychologist with 20 years experience in the NHS and independent practise. I specialise in supporting people who are experiencing psychological difficulties due to a physical health problem, perhaps from illness, injury, a medical problem or a long -term condition. I have particular interest and expertise in pain management, oncology, palliative care and women's health (e.g. peri-menopause, fertility).
0121 817 7916 View 0121 817 7916
Photo of Lucy S Adamson, MBACP Snr. Accred, Counsellor
Lucy S Adamson
Counsellor, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
West London, London W14  (Online Only)
With chronic pain I use releasing techniques.
I have experience in dealing with young people as well as being grounded in working with older adults and their issues. Young adult suffering from low mood or anxiety, adolescents struggling with school based issues, eating disorders, social anxieties and traumas of family life are suited to my practice. It can be difficult reaching out for help but if you can connect correctly with another individual it can help build confidence and rebuild your life. Many people struggle with unresolved pain or illness. I offer techniques to cope with these issues. Often psychological barriers prevent our healing successfully.
With chronic pain I use releasing techniques.
I have experience in dealing with young people as well as being grounded in working with older adults and their issues. Young adult suffering from low mood or anxiety, adolescents struggling with school based issues, eating disorders, social anxieties and traumas of family life are suited to my practice. It can be difficult reaching out for help but if you can connect correctly with another individual it can help build confidence and rebuild your life. Many people struggle with unresolved pain or illness. I offer techniques to cope with these issues. Often psychological barriers prevent our healing successfully.
01582 380576 View 01582 380576
Photo of Janine Hayward - Composurepsychology, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Janine Hayward - Composurepsychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W1G
Evidence-based therapies we offer include Acceptance & Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness (general/health & pain), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT), EMDR, DBT, Narrative Therapy & Solution Focussed Therapy and Counselling.
Hello. Do you struggle with stress from; work, relationships, or parenting? Are you overwhelmed, worried, depressed, stuck, or low in self-esteem? You are not alone. Does your need to be perfect upset you or take up too much time? Is a trauma, threat to your health, an illness, a major loss or death hurting you? It doesn't have to be that way. We help people like you understand your distress, learn new skills for managing uncomfortable emotions and thoughts, improve relationships, and find meaning and focus. We're Clinical Psychologists (HCPC), with >10 years of experience delivering effective therapy to kids, teens and adults.
Evidence-based therapies we offer include Acceptance & Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness (general/health & pain), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT), EMDR, DBT, Narrative Therapy & Solution Focussed Therapy and Counselling.
Hello. Do you struggle with stress from; work, relationships, or parenting? Are you overwhelmed, worried, depressed, stuck, or low in self-esteem? You are not alone. Does your need to be perfect upset you or take up too much time? Is a trauma, threat to your health, an illness, a major loss or death hurting you? It doesn't have to be that way. We help people like you understand your distress, learn new skills for managing uncomfortable emotions and thoughts, improve relationships, and find meaning and focus. We're Clinical Psychologists (HCPC), with >10 years of experience delivering effective therapy to kids, teens and adults.
0333 344 2063 View 0333 344 2063
Photo of Helen Thomas, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Helen Thomas
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W2
It can help us to ease the hardest moments in life, and possibly, with time, even transform pain into the discovery of new potential or meaning.
Everyone faces difficulties in life. It might be that something specific has happened. Maybe challenges have built up and feel too much to handle. Or perhaps it’s possible just to get a bit lost somewhere along the line. Sometimes we need some extra support to process and soothe specific pain, or to take some time to get to know ourselves on a deeper level.
It can help us to ease the hardest moments in life, and possibly, with time, even transform pain into the discovery of new potential or meaning.
Everyone faces difficulties in life. It might be that something specific has happened. Maybe challenges have built up and feel too much to handle. Or perhaps it’s possible just to get a bit lost somewhere along the line. Sometimes we need some extra support to process and soothe specific pain, or to take some time to get to know ourselves on a deeper level.
020 3947 5991 View 020 3947 5991
Photo of Monika Gos, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Monika Gos
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W1U
It is not only about resolving the pain,but about going beyond our woundedness to reach and discover our greatest potential.
The fact that we are alive, proves we are resilient and creative enough in our attempts to face life’s challenges. At times our experience may become overwhelming or too painful to adapt to, or the adaptation may come with great consequences. The long-term effects of this may lead to anxiety, low mood or lack of confidence. When stress keeps us in its grip for too long, some health problems or physical pain / psychosomatic symptoms may develop as a consequence. You may be feeling that you cannot live fully or express yourself, as if there was a block or a barrier between you and life, you and others, or you and your core self.
It is not only about resolving the pain,but about going beyond our woundedness to reach and discover our greatest potential.
The fact that we are alive, proves we are resilient and creative enough in our attempts to face life’s challenges. At times our experience may become overwhelming or too painful to adapt to, or the adaptation may come with great consequences. The long-term effects of this may lead to anxiety, low mood or lack of confidence. When stress keeps us in its grip for too long, some health problems or physical pain / psychosomatic symptoms may develop as a consequence. You may be feeling that you cannot live fully or express yourself, as if there was a block or a barrier between you and life, you and others, or you and your core self.
0115 824 3741 View 0115 824 3741
Photo of Dr Katie Yon, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Katie Yon
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West London, London W9  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist specialising in working with individuals and couples presenting with concerns about sex and relationships. I have a background of working in NHS Sexual Health services, and am experienced in supporting with pain during sex, vaginismus, vulvodynia, low desire, concerns about libido, difficulties related to orgasm, unreliable erections, attachment difficulties, and anxiety about sex and relationships. The psychological therapy I provide is evidence-based and draws on a variety of approaches including Psychodynamically-informed Therapy, CFT, Systemic Therapy, CBT and Sex Therapy techniques.
I am a Clinical Psychologist specialising in working with individuals and couples presenting with concerns about sex and relationships. I have a background of working in NHS Sexual Health services, and am experienced in supporting with pain during sex, vaginismus, vulvodynia, low desire, concerns about libido, difficulties related to orgasm, unreliable erections, attachment difficulties, and anxiety about sex and relationships. The psychological therapy I provide is evidence-based and draws on a variety of approaches including Psychodynamically-informed Therapy, CFT, Systemic Therapy, CBT and Sex Therapy techniques.
020 4538 1487 View 020 4538 1487
Photo of Marilena Tzafettas, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Marilena Tzafettas
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
West London, London W2
I am a licensed health psychologist and CBT therapist with several years of clinical experience in providing psychological services mostly focusing on adults (NHS setting - since 2014). I specialise in the treatment of anxiety disorders, stress, depression and have also worked with groups on managing chronic pain and long-term conditions. I have a particular interest in perinatal psychological wellbeing and aim to support women and/or their partners who are dealing with postnatal depression, loss of a pregnancy or baby, or even those trying to adjust to their family’s new dynamics and all the stress that this can cause.
I am a licensed health psychologist and CBT therapist with several years of clinical experience in providing psychological services mostly focusing on adults (NHS setting - since 2014). I specialise in the treatment of anxiety disorders, stress, depression and have also worked with groups on managing chronic pain and long-term conditions. I have a particular interest in perinatal psychological wellbeing and aim to support women and/or their partners who are dealing with postnatal depression, loss of a pregnancy or baby, or even those trying to adjust to their family’s new dynamics and all the stress that this can cause.
020 3826 8620 View 020 3826 8620
Photo of Dr Ada Siu, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist
Dr Ada Siu
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W5  (Online Only)
sleep issues, ME/CFS, chronic pain) or mental health difficulties (e.
I am an experienced psychologist in providing psychology therapies and behavioural change interventions to promote mental wellbeing and healthy behaviours. I worked in a wide range of psychology contexts including clinical mental health, forensics, health, communities, and universities. My work with the NHS specialises in chronic pain management and other long-term health conditions. Throughout my clinical practice, I specialise in working with people presenting difficulties in mental health and physical health, as well as in major life adjustments/transitions (e.g. bereavement, relationships, settling in a new environment).
sleep issues, ME/CFS, chronic pain) or mental health difficulties (e.
I am an experienced psychologist in providing psychology therapies and behavioural change interventions to promote mental wellbeing and healthy behaviours. I worked in a wide range of psychology contexts including clinical mental health, forensics, health, communities, and universities. My work with the NHS specialises in chronic pain management and other long-term health conditions. Throughout my clinical practice, I specialise in working with people presenting difficulties in mental health and physical health, as well as in major life adjustments/transitions (e.g. bereavement, relationships, settling in a new environment).
020 3910 8453 View 020 3910 8453
Photo of Ellie S - Dr Ellie S, DCounsPsych, GMBPsS, Counsellor
Dr Ellie S
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
West London, London W1G  (Online Only)
My name is Ellie and I’m a highly qualified integrative therapist. I have many years of experience working with presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, chronic illness adjustment, and relationship difficulties. Through my Doctorate, I am trained in several approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural, Dialectical, Psychodynamic, and Person-Centred therapy. I start by assessing each client, and then collaboratively tailor sessions to suit their individual needs. My work is underpinned by humanistic core values of empathy and compassion.
My name is Ellie and I’m a highly qualified integrative therapist. I have many years of experience working with presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, chronic illness adjustment, and relationship difficulties. Through my Doctorate, I am trained in several approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural, Dialectical, Psychodynamic, and Person-Centred therapy. I start by assessing each client, and then collaboratively tailor sessions to suit their individual needs. My work is underpinned by humanistic core values of empathy and compassion.
01642 061036 View 01642 061036
Photo of Gillian Beckwith, MA, COSRT Accred, Psychotherapist
Gillian Beckwith
Psychotherapist, MA, COSRT Accred
Verified Verified
West London, London W4  (Online Only)
It can include arousal and desire, orgasm (rapid, delayed, not achieving), erectile sufficiency, pain on penetrative sex, non-consummation, sexual identity, change from the impact of illness, disability, ageing, fertility challenges.
Taking a break 20th September-29th September 2024 inclusive. Fully qualified and highly experienced with all sexual and relational dilemmas, and especially when matters are usually fuelled by anxiety/depression which can come with a sense of loneliness or isolation. I happily work with all kinds of couples or individuals on their relationships and also general personal dilemmas, for example, grief, loss, anxiety, depression and I have done so for a long time. Using a clinical supervisor, I maintain regular sessions about my (anonymised) client work to ensure consistently effective therapy. I have industry-standard insurance.
It can include arousal and desire, orgasm (rapid, delayed, not achieving), erectile sufficiency, pain on penetrative sex, non-consummation, sexual identity, change from the impact of illness, disability, ageing, fertility challenges.
Taking a break 20th September-29th September 2024 inclusive. Fully qualified and highly experienced with all sexual and relational dilemmas, and especially when matters are usually fuelled by anxiety/depression which can come with a sense of loneliness or isolation. I happily work with all kinds of couples or individuals on their relationships and also general personal dilemmas, for example, grief, loss, anxiety, depression and I have done so for a long time. Using a clinical supervisor, I maintain regular sessions about my (anonymised) client work to ensure consistently effective therapy. I have industry-standard insurance.
01748 902286 View 01748 902286
Photo of Dr Sofia Ferreira, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Sofia Ferreira
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W14  (Online Only)
Does your inner world feel out of balance? Perhaps you feeling stressed, worried, or overwhelmed? Or maybe you feeling unmotivated, down or disconnected? Being listened to and understood by a caring professional in an empathic therapeutic relationship can bring tremendous relief from emotional conflict and pain, develop a stronger self and promote constructive ways to live a more fulfilling and happy life. For more than 15 years I have been offering psychological assessment and treatment to adults and older adults with a range of difficulties.
Does your inner world feel out of balance? Perhaps you feeling stressed, worried, or overwhelmed? Or maybe you feeling unmotivated, down or disconnected? Being listened to and understood by a caring professional in an empathic therapeutic relationship can bring tremendous relief from emotional conflict and pain, develop a stronger self and promote constructive ways to live a more fulfilling and happy life. For more than 15 years I have been offering psychological assessment and treatment to adults and older adults with a range of difficulties.
01748 901747 View 01748 901747
Photo of Lucy Okocha, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Lucy Okocha
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
West London, London W5  (Online Only)
I specialise in substance misuse, mental illness and Domestic Violence.
Life is an adventure. Only through exploring a new path, the strength you will feel tomorrow will move you forward for that change. Reaching out can be overwhelming, daunting draining & can lead to a downward spiral, of being in a dark place, if you do not have the support, which pushes you to your comfort zone. This can sometimes be more harmful than helpful to your journey of change, if you cannot trust, feel uncomfortable to open up, or have no one that really listens to your cries, as you feel you are seen, but not heard, undervalued or not acknowledged. Let alone checked in, if you are okay. Well guess what? YOU are not alone.
I specialise in substance misuse, mental illness and Domestic Violence.
Life is an adventure. Only through exploring a new path, the strength you will feel tomorrow will move you forward for that change. Reaching out can be overwhelming, daunting draining & can lead to a downward spiral, of being in a dark place, if you do not have the support, which pushes you to your comfort zone. This can sometimes be more harmful than helpful to your journey of change, if you cannot trust, feel uncomfortable to open up, or have no one that really listens to your cries, as you feel you are seen, but not heard, undervalued or not acknowledged. Let alone checked in, if you are okay. Well guess what? YOU are not alone.
01748 901331 View 01748 901331
Photo of Adamantia Kriezi, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Adamantia Kriezi
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
West London, London W5  (Online Only)
I have a special interest in Long Term Physical illness and the impact this can have on a person's identity, every day life and relationships to one's sense of self, others and the world.
We are going through some very challenging times when past issues might re surface and current problems can become overwhelming. My focus is to offer a safe and confidential space where we can think together about what is troubling you and explore the underlying reasons and ways of managing better. Some difficulties may be long standing and would benefit from longer term therapy offering a slower pace but deeper understanding. Other difficulties might require a brief but targeted approach focusing primarily on the 'here and now' self management and support. Either way, it all starts with a conversation.
I have a special interest in Long Term Physical illness and the impact this can have on a person's identity, every day life and relationships to one's sense of self, others and the world.
We are going through some very challenging times when past issues might re surface and current problems can become overwhelming. My focus is to offer a safe and confidential space where we can think together about what is troubling you and explore the underlying reasons and ways of managing better. Some difficulties may be long standing and would benefit from longer term therapy offering a slower pace but deeper understanding. Other difficulties might require a brief but targeted approach focusing primarily on the 'here and now' self management and support. Either way, it all starts with a conversation.
View
Photo of Basak Jeffreys, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Basak Jeffreys
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
West London, London W1W
We live in a challenging world. There are times in our lives when we must endure pain, stress and loss whilst holding our business and personal lives together. Some people choose to work through their issues alone, perhaps considering reaching for help is as a sign of weakness. However, all healthy humans require personal connections. Talking with someone who has no relationship to your daily life, willing to listen and understand your concerns can help. I understand the pressures of difficult emotions and circumstances.
We live in a challenging world. There are times in our lives when we must endure pain, stress and loss whilst holding our business and personal lives together. Some people choose to work through their issues alone, perhaps considering reaching for help is as a sign of weakness. However, all healthy humans require personal connections. Talking with someone who has no relationship to your daily life, willing to listen and understand your concerns can help. I understand the pressures of difficult emotions and circumstances.
020 3985 8931 View 020 3985 8931
1
...

See more therapy options for West London, London

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.