Chronic Pain Counselling in Ennis

Photo of Brenda Cooney - Flourish Therapy, MSc, Pre-Accredited Member IACP, Psychotherapist
Flourish Therapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ennis, County Clare V95
Due to this rigorous self-development qualification, I can facilitate clients calmly and solidly as they are supported to navigate their emotional pain.
I work with clients in an integrative, holistic way using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), polyvagal, person-centred, gestalt and psychodynamic approaches. I build the therapeutic relationship based on respect, empathy and acceptance of each individual and their unique needs. I believe that every individual has the potential for growth through the support of an accepting, safe, and secure environment.
Due to this rigorous self-development qualification, I can facilitate clients calmly and solidly as they are supported to navigate their emotional pain.
I work with clients in an integrative, holistic way using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), polyvagal, person-centred, gestalt and psychodynamic approaches. I build the therapeutic relationship based on respect, empathy and acceptance of each individual and their unique needs. I believe that every individual has the potential for growth through the support of an accepting, safe, and secure environment.
(01) 267 6595 x94 View (01) 267 6595 x94
Photo of Toni Knowles Clarity Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, MA, Psychotherapist
Toni Knowles Clarity Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Ennis, County Clare V95
I am a qualified teacher and qualified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I have a private practice and used to work for many years in a Youth Centre. CBT is an effective way of working that enables people to help themselves through emotional and social challenges. I work with adults and teenagers, helping them with anxiety, depression, self esteem issues, bullying, transitional changes, stress, issues with OCD, body image and other issues that challenge wellbeing.
I am a qualified teacher and qualified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I have a private practice and used to work for many years in a Youth Centre. CBT is an effective way of working that enables people to help themselves through emotional and social challenges. I work with adults and teenagers, helping them with anxiety, depression, self esteem issues, bullying, transitional changes, stress, issues with OCD, body image and other issues that challenge wellbeing.
086 861 1074 View 086 861 1074

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Caroline Elliott Msc Iacp Accredited Lmc, MSc, MIACP, Counsellor
Caroline Elliott Msc Iacp Accredited Lmc
Counsellor, MSc, MIACP
Verified Verified
Clarecastle, County Clare V95  (Online Only)
I am accredited by the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) and a Licensed Mental Health Counsellor in the US. Throughout my career, I have dedicated my expertise and compassion to helping children, adolescents, families, and adults overcome various challenges to lead fulfilling lives. I allow individuals of all ages to feel heard, understood, and validated.
I am accredited by the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) and a Licensed Mental Health Counsellor in the US. Throughout my career, I have dedicated my expertise and compassion to helping children, adolescents, families, and adults overcome various challenges to lead fulfilling lives. I allow individuals of all ages to feel heard, understood, and validated.
(01) 592 4196 x79 View (01) 592 4196 x79
Photo of Linda Linnane - Linnane Counselling and Psychotherapy, MA, Psychotherapist
Linnane Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Shannon, County Clare V14
I work with a wide variety of clients. I can offer services to those over the age of 13 in relation to stress and anxiety, family issues, bereavement, sexual identity and relationship issues. I work with individuals mainly and family combinations, such as parents and children or couples where necessary.
I work with a wide variety of clients. I can offer services to those over the age of 13 in relation to stress and anxiety, family issues, bereavement, sexual identity and relationship issues. I work with individuals mainly and family combinations, such as parents and children or couples where necessary.
(01) 267 6675 x90 View (01) 267 6675 x90

Online Therapists

Photo of Emma Farrell, Pre-Accredited Member IACP, Psychotherapist
Emma Farrell
Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Verified Verified
Cork, County Cork T56
If you would like support with grief and loss, trauma, illness, chronic pain, relationship issues, work stress, parenting, emotional regulation, building self-awareness, depression, anxiety, and other challenges and changes in your life you can contact me by Phone, Text, WhatsApp or Email to arrange an appointment or a short call to discuss how I might help.
My name is Emma Farrell. I am a counsellor and psychotherapist working from my private practice in Knockraha Co. Cork (near Glanmire). I hold a first-class honours degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy from MTU and I am a member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP). I work with adults (18+). I offer individual one hour therapy sessions in person or online. Online group therapy for chronic pain starting end of September. Spaces available.
If you would like support with grief and loss, trauma, illness, chronic pain, relationship issues, work stress, parenting, emotional regulation, building self-awareness, depression, anxiety, and other challenges and changes in your life you can contact me by Phone, Text, WhatsApp or Email to arrange an appointment or a short call to discuss how I might help.
My name is Emma Farrell. I am a counsellor and psychotherapist working from my private practice in Knockraha Co. Cork (near Glanmire). I hold a first-class honours degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy from MTU and I am a member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP). I work with adults (18+). I offer individual one hour therapy sessions in person or online. Online group therapy for chronic pain starting end of September. Spaces available.
085 162 1427 View 085 162 1427
Photo of Lorraine Mooney, MA, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Lorraine Mooney
Psychotherapist, MA, MIACP
Verified Verified
Edenderry, County Offaly R45
I am also a general psychotherapist working in the areas of mental health issues; anxiety, stress, depression, bereavement, self-harm, suicide distress, eating distress, gender identity (LGBTQIA+), sexuality, women’s health, chronic pain, disabilities, allergies (anaphylaxis), relationships & spirituality.
Trauma Informed and Neuro Affirming Practice! I am a fully accredited adult, adolescent and child psychotherapist. As an integrative therapist, I move between different theoretical approaches including Person Centred Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Gestalt Therapy depending on each client’s individual therapeutic needs. My main therapeutic approach is Humanistic where I apply a Person-Cantered focus with clients by establishing an empathic and non-judgmental relationship in a relaxed, confidential setting with each client.
I am also a general psychotherapist working in the areas of mental health issues; anxiety, stress, depression, bereavement, self-harm, suicide distress, eating distress, gender identity (LGBTQIA+), sexuality, women’s health, chronic pain, disabilities, allergies (anaphylaxis), relationships & spirituality.
Trauma Informed and Neuro Affirming Practice! I am a fully accredited adult, adolescent and child psychotherapist. As an integrative therapist, I move between different theoretical approaches including Person Centred Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Gestalt Therapy depending on each client’s individual therapeutic needs. My main therapeutic approach is Humanistic where I apply a Person-Cantered focus with clients by establishing an empathic and non-judgmental relationship in a relaxed, confidential setting with each client.
085 806 3574 View 085 806 3574
Photo of Deirdre Fallon, MA, Psychotherapist
Deirdre Fallon
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Kanturk, County Cork P51
I have a special interest in working with clients who are suffering from Chronic Pain ( pain longer than 3 months), that have been treated by numerous medical doctors, but are still suffering from chronic pain.
Every person is unique, and I adapt the way in which I work to suit every individual person. My work is influenced by a belief that with increased awareness, that we all have the capacity to resolve difficulties and enhance our wellbeing. The types of therapies that I offer include treatment for Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Disordered Eating, Schema (inner child work), Behaviour Problems, Addiction, Relationship Difficulties, Bullying, LGBTQIA+, Trauma, Low Self-Esteem, Chronic Illness, Stress and Burnout.
I have a special interest in working with clients who are suffering from Chronic Pain ( pain longer than 3 months), that have been treated by numerous medical doctors, but are still suffering from chronic pain.
Every person is unique, and I adapt the way in which I work to suit every individual person. My work is influenced by a belief that with increased awareness, that we all have the capacity to resolve difficulties and enhance our wellbeing. The types of therapies that I offer include treatment for Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Disordered Eating, Schema (inner child work), Behaviour Problems, Addiction, Relationship Difficulties, Bullying, LGBTQIA+, Trauma, Low Self-Esteem, Chronic Illness, Stress and Burnout.
083 813 8628 View 083 813 8628
Photo of Lesley Kelly, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Lesley Kelly
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Verified Verified
Cobh, County Cork P24
Life can be challenging at times. Your story, struggles and pain are unique to you. My belief is that you have the capacity and strength to resolve your issues with the right supports in place. I offer a supportive space of warmth and non-judgemental listening to help untangle the discomfort you are experiencing. Together, we will spend time understanding exactly what you are experiencing. I will not tell you what to do, but will encourage you and provide tools to help you cope with life’s obstacles.
Life can be challenging at times. Your story, struggles and pain are unique to you. My belief is that you have the capacity and strength to resolve your issues with the right supports in place. I offer a supportive space of warmth and non-judgemental listening to help untangle the discomfort you are experiencing. Together, we will spend time understanding exactly what you are experiencing. I will not tell you what to do, but will encourage you and provide tools to help you cope with life’s obstacles.
(01) 267 6692 x33 View (01) 267 6692 x33
Photo of Wendy van der Velden - rhiannon counseling, APCP, Counsellor
rhiannon counseling
Counsellor, APCP
Verified Verified
Crusheen, County Clare V95
Rhiannon counseling offers help with all difficulties in life,from existential struggles to more specific problems like depression,anxiety,bereavement,loss, illness,trauma,family problems,abuse,eating disorders and personal development.
rhiannon counseling does online therapy for a variety of issues. Short term solution focused CBT sessions and longer term supportive counseling.
Rhiannon counseling offers help with all difficulties in life,from existential struggles to more specific problems like depression,anxiety,bereavement,loss, illness,trauma,family problems,abuse,eating disorders and personal development.
rhiannon counseling does online therapy for a variety of issues. Short term solution focused CBT sessions and longer term supportive counseling.
(01) 568 2872 x41 View (01) 568 2872 x41
Photo of Claudine Nelan, MIACP, Counsellor
Claudine Nelan
Counsellor, MIACP
Verified Verified
Cork, County Cork T12
She believes the client is the expert on themselves, assisting them to make meaningful changes in the service of what matters most to them, viewing her role as a supportive, non directive one. She has worked extensively with clients on issues such as anger mgt, chronic illness, panic attacks & relationship problems with clients who feel stuck in perpetual cycles of stress, anxiety, anger, depression, or addiction or are experiencing dissatisfaction in their day to day life. She offers practical strategies to calm our anxious minds, transform negative emotions, and facilitate greater self acceptance, freedom and inner peace.
She believes the client is the expert on themselves, assisting them to make meaningful changes in the service of what matters most to them, viewing her role as a supportive, non directive one. She has worked extensively with clients on issues such as anger mgt, chronic illness, panic attacks & relationship problems with clients who feel stuck in perpetual cycles of stress, anxiety, anger, depression, or addiction or are experiencing dissatisfaction in their day to day life. She offers practical strategies to calm our anxious minds, transform negative emotions, and facilitate greater self acceptance, freedom and inner peace.
(01) 267 6536 x87 View (01) 267 6536 x87
Photo of Samantha Mair, Psychotherapist
Samantha Mair
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
CBT is about learning new skills and ways of being to help you tackle life’s challenges and break free from pain and suffering.
I treat a variety of common mental health difficulties and life challenges (e.g. mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, complex trauma, relationships issues, stress, low self-esteem, perfectionist traits). Some people aren’t quite sure what’s going on for them, but something just doesn’t feel right. Whatever your struggle is, I want to help you to get your life on track, break out of unhelpful patterns of behaviour, and find meaning and satisfaction in life. I can offer you a safe and non-judgmental space to explore what it is that’s causing you difficulty, and an evidence-based approach to help you to finally move forward.
CBT is about learning new skills and ways of being to help you tackle life’s challenges and break free from pain and suffering.
I treat a variety of common mental health difficulties and life challenges (e.g. mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, complex trauma, relationships issues, stress, low self-esteem, perfectionist traits). Some people aren’t quite sure what’s going on for them, but something just doesn’t feel right. Whatever your struggle is, I want to help you to get your life on track, break out of unhelpful patterns of behaviour, and find meaning and satisfaction in life. I can offer you a safe and non-judgmental space to explore what it is that’s causing you difficulty, and an evidence-based approach to help you to finally move forward.
087 342 6130 View 087 342 6130
Photo of Valerie Dolan, Pre-Accredited Member IACP, Psychotherapist
Valerie Dolan
Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballinasloe, County Galway H53
Area of Expertise: Models of change in moving beyond Anxiety, grief, Depression, feeling overwhelmed, relationship challenges, Impact of Complex Trauma, Managing challenges of chronic illness.
My intention is to create a safe and holding space to enable you to get to know yourself better. My passion and commitment are being with you every step of the way. If you're struggling, feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or need support to deal with life's challenges, you've come to the right place. I use an integrative holistic approach so clients can begin to feel safe and pain-free in their inner world. Acknowledge and recognise where they are making choices from fear and survival, and upgrade these choices to come from a place of self-love and creation so they can experience harmony inwardly and in their exterior environment.
Area of Expertise: Models of change in moving beyond Anxiety, grief, Depression, feeling overwhelmed, relationship challenges, Impact of Complex Trauma, Managing challenges of chronic illness.
My intention is to create a safe and holding space to enable you to get to know yourself better. My passion and commitment are being with you every step of the way. If you're struggling, feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or need support to deal with life's challenges, you've come to the right place. I use an integrative holistic approach so clients can begin to feel safe and pain-free in their inner world. Acknowledge and recognise where they are making choices from fear and survival, and upgrade these choices to come from a place of self-love and creation so they can experience harmony inwardly and in their exterior environment.
(01) 267 6603 x81 View (01) 267 6603 x81
Photo of Mary O'Neill - Eden Counselling Mullingar, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Eden Counselling Mullingar
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Verified Verified
Mullingar, County Westmeath N91
Clients come to me at a difficult time in their lives. They may have issues like anxiety, depression, chronic pain and illness, grief and loss, low self esteem. They want answers and they want a way out of distress so that they can get back to living their life to the full.
Clients come to me at a difficult time in their lives. They may have issues like anxiety, depression, chronic pain and illness, grief and loss, low self esteem. They want answers and they want a way out of distress so that they can get back to living their life to the full.
(01) 263 0697 x85 View (01) 263 0697 x85
Photo of Philomena Clarke, DCounsPsych, MIACP, Counsellor
Philomena Clarke
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MIACP
Verified Verified
Carlow, County Carlow R93
It's purpose is to provide a safe, confidential environment to explore the losses, stresses, confusion, conflict and other pain during life crises.
Counselling and Psychotherapy is a talking therapy. Through talking with a professional Counsellor and Psychotherapist you may become aware of patterns in your life that may not be serving you well. Counselling and Psychotherapy provides support in times of change. A professional Counsellor and Psychotherapist can assist and facilitate in the alleviation of difficulties or stresses in ones life. Challenges and difficulties in your life are normal from time to time. However, they can be overwhelming making us feel helpless and powerless. I can assist and facilitate in the alleviation of difficulties or stresses in ones life.
It's purpose is to provide a safe, confidential environment to explore the losses, stresses, confusion, conflict and other pain during life crises.
Counselling and Psychotherapy is a talking therapy. Through talking with a professional Counsellor and Psychotherapist you may become aware of patterns in your life that may not be serving you well. Counselling and Psychotherapy provides support in times of change. A professional Counsellor and Psychotherapist can assist and facilitate in the alleviation of difficulties or stresses in ones life. Challenges and difficulties in your life are normal from time to time. However, they can be overwhelming making us feel helpless and powerless. I can assist and facilitate in the alleviation of difficulties or stresses in ones life.
(01) 267 6552 x54 View (01) 267 6552 x54
Photo of David John O'Farrell, MSc, MIACP, Psychotherapist
David John O'Farrell
Psychotherapist, MSc, MIACP
Verified Verified
Tuam, County Galway H54
Specialists in Anxiety, Panic attacks, Depression, Mood disorders, helping client deal with Add, adhd, autism, aspergers, Loss, grief, oncology diagnosis, MS, fibromyalgia, pain, coercive control in relationships, family difficulties.
Appointment within a few days, Solution focused therapy, adults 3/5 sessions. Specializing in Anxiety and Stress related difficulties. Trained specifically Adult Eating Disorders, Anxiety and Depression, OCD, Separation, Loss and Bereavement. Trained in CBT, CBT-E, Reality Therapy, ACT Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Specialists in Anxiety, Panic attacks, Depression, Mood disorders, helping client deal with Add, adhd, autism, aspergers, Loss, grief, oncology diagnosis, MS, fibromyalgia, pain, coercive control in relationships, family difficulties.
Appointment within a few days, Solution focused therapy, adults 3/5 sessions. Specializing in Anxiety and Stress related difficulties. Trained specifically Adult Eating Disorders, Anxiety and Depression, OCD, Separation, Loss and Bereavement. Trained in CBT, CBT-E, Reality Therapy, ACT Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
085 763 7059 View 085 763 7059
Photo of Helena C Simon - Embodied Self Online Psychotherapy & Counselling , MIACP, Psychotherapist
Embodied Self Online Psychotherapy & Counselling
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Verified Verified
Cork, County Cork T12  (Online Only)
In everyone’s life there are times when we need to reset our learned ways or find new ways as the current ones create emotional pain. Oftentimes it helps to look in detail how things are connected with someone that can provide a safe space to do so. We are all capable to find our own ingenious ways to live a fulfilled life. This very personal learning can be supported by a trained counsellor/psychotherapist therapist. I believe strongly that my function as therapist is to provide the space and knowledge for the collaborative work my clients choose to do and that healing will come from within ourselves where we are in pain.
In everyone’s life there are times when we need to reset our learned ways or find new ways as the current ones create emotional pain. Oftentimes it helps to look in detail how things are connected with someone that can provide a safe space to do so. We are all capable to find our own ingenious ways to live a fulfilled life. This very personal learning can be supported by a trained counsellor/psychotherapist therapist. I believe strongly that my function as therapist is to provide the space and knowledge for the collaborative work my clients choose to do and that healing will come from within ourselves where we are in pain.
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Photo of Dr. Iain Mays, CPsychol PSI, Psychologist
Dr. Iain Mays
Psychologist, CPsychol PSI
Verified Verified
Cork, County Cork T12  (Online Only)
I work with people experiencing any mental health or health difficultly at any life stage. I have a history of chronic fatigue syndrome so have a particular interest in working with experiences of fatigue (e.g ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia, Long Covid) or other chronic conditions such as headache disorders. I have worked in health, mental health and social care services across Ireland and have been privileged to hear clients’ stories and witness their strength in the face of physical and mental pain.
I work with people experiencing any mental health or health difficultly at any life stage. I have a history of chronic fatigue syndrome so have a particular interest in working with experiences of fatigue (e.g ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia, Long Covid) or other chronic conditions such as headache disorders. I have worked in health, mental health and social care services across Ireland and have been privileged to hear clients’ stories and witness their strength in the face of physical and mental pain.
089 421 5417 View 089 421 5417
Photo of Jennifer Jasmin Werner, MSc, MBPsS, Psychologist
Jennifer Jasmin Werner
Psychologist, MSc, MBPsS
Verified Verified
Kenmare, County Kerry V93  (Online Only)
My ideal client is navigating the complexities of a chronic illness or a profound existential crisis. They seek understanding and tools to manage their emotional turmoil and regain a sense of control and purpose. Their goals include developing resilience, finding meaning in their experiences, and enhancing their quality of life despite their challenges. They desire a therapeutic relationship built on trust and empathy, where they can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment, aiming to foster personal growth and healing. They want to feel empowered to face their circumstances with renewed strength and perspective.
My ideal client is navigating the complexities of a chronic illness or a profound existential crisis. They seek understanding and tools to manage their emotional turmoil and regain a sense of control and purpose. Their goals include developing resilience, finding meaning in their experiences, and enhancing their quality of life despite their challenges. They desire a therapeutic relationship built on trust and empathy, where they can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment, aiming to foster personal growth and healing. They want to feel empowered to face their circumstances with renewed strength and perspective.
(01) 230 8537 x94 View (01) 230 8537 x94
Photo of Laura Burke Hurley, MIACP, Counsellor
Laura Burke Hurley
Counsellor, MIACP
Verified Verified
Kilworth, County Cork P61
In order to heal I believe people need their pain, distress and trauma to be witnessed and validated.
Reaching out for counselling and psychotherapy can be daunting at first but that is normal. It takes great courage to ask for help. I work by offering a safe and confidential space so that together we can focus on helping you find the best ways to explore any areas you are having difficulties in. I have experience of working with many of the common reasons people go to therapy including anxiety, depression, panic attacks, anger, trauma, abuse, grief, loss and relationship issues. I am a fully accredited counsellor/psychotherapist & counselling trainer, an experienced intellectual disability nurse and have a degree in Fine art.
In order to heal I believe people need their pain, distress and trauma to be witnessed and validated.
Reaching out for counselling and psychotherapy can be daunting at first but that is normal. It takes great courage to ask for help. I work by offering a safe and confidential space so that together we can focus on helping you find the best ways to explore any areas you are having difficulties in. I have experience of working with many of the common reasons people go to therapy including anxiety, depression, panic attacks, anger, trauma, abuse, grief, loss and relationship issues. I am a fully accredited counsellor/psychotherapist & counselling trainer, an experienced intellectual disability nurse and have a degree in Fine art.
089 458 8280 View 089 458 8280
Photo of Mayara Conceicao Hare, MSc, MPSI, Psychologist
Mayara Conceicao Hare
Psychologist, MSc, MPSI
Verified Verified
Waterford, County Waterford X91
The reasons why people seek my assistance are the following: Domestic Violence, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Family Issues, Chronic Pain and Cognitive Rehabilitation.
I am an experienced Psychologist/Psychotherapist. Especialist providing CBT interventions and support across diverse settings. Proficient in clinical sessions. Demonstrated excellence in fostering well-being and understanding mental health across all age groups. Highly skilled in tailoring therapeutic and rehabilitation approaches.
The reasons why people seek my assistance are the following: Domestic Violence, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Family Issues, Chronic Pain and Cognitive Rehabilitation.
I am an experienced Psychologist/Psychotherapist. Especialist providing CBT interventions and support across diverse settings. Proficient in clinical sessions. Demonstrated excellence in fostering well-being and understanding mental health across all age groups. Highly skilled in tailoring therapeutic and rehabilitation approaches.
(01) 267 6595 x84 View (01) 267 6595 x84

See more therapy options for Ennis

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.