Chronic Pain Psychiatrists in Vernon Hills, IL

Photo of Vanessa Wrobel, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vanessa Wrobel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Vanessa Wrobel, PMHNP-BC, is a compassionate and dedicated board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, committed to supporting individuals and families in their journey towards improved mental well-being. With over a decade of nursing experience and a master's degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University, Vanessa brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice. Her areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, psychosis, and trauma. Vanessa takes a holistic and integrative approach to care, tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Vanessa Wrobel, PMHNP-BC, is a compassionate and dedicated board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, committed to supporting individuals and families in their journey towards improved mental well-being. With over a decade of nursing experience and a master's degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University, Vanessa brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice. Her areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, psychosis, and trauma. Vanessa takes a holistic and integrative approach to care, tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual.
(847) 565-2453 View (847) 565-2453
Photo of Alexis Henion (Addiction Speciality), PA-C, Physician Assistant
Alexis Henion (Addiction Speciality)
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug and alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug and alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(847) 278-2871 View (847) 278-2871
Photo of Shalini Varma - Shalini Varma, M.D., Doctor, BdCert, Meds, COACH, Therapy, Psychiatrist
Shalini Varma, M.D.
Psychiatrist, Doctor, BdCert, Meds, COACH, Therapy
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Accepting people of all ages within one week! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
Accepting people of all ages within one week! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
(224) 374-1918 View (224) 374-1918
Photo of Brianne Brown, MSN, APRN, FPA, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brianne Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FPA, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061  (Online Only)
Are you drowning in an ocean of providers to choose from? Are you constantly overthinking? Do you struggle to quiet your racing thoughts, replaying different scenarios in your head? Do you feel your mood has made it hard to fall asleep or get out of bed? Are you feeling isolated and lonely? I understand how hard it can be and and can help you.
Are you drowning in an ocean of providers to choose from? Are you constantly overthinking? Do you struggle to quiet your racing thoughts, replaying different scenarios in your head? Do you feel your mood has made it hard to fall asleep or get out of bed? Are you feeling isolated and lonely? I understand how hard it can be and and can help you.
(847) 973-5890 View (847) 973-5890

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Lizabeth Lee Johnson R.n. - Lizas Art Works, RN, Psychiatric Nurse
Lizas Art Works
Psychiatric Nurse, RN
Verified Verified
Wauconda, IL 60084
My therapy helps peoples fears , depression and loss of control due to mental or physical illness.
If you are chronically ill and are having a tough time coping with your disease I can help you.. i have rheumatoid arthritis , I understand .the needs of illness.. Iworked as a Registered Nurse many years in a Hospital, In many different areas. My focus is Oncology Nursing . I have bipolar, OCD, ADHD. ,My entire family of 10 also does. I’ve been in remission for over 40 years with meds,therapy, and art. As an artist for 57 years teaching watercolor and I use art therapy to cure all conditions of mental stress. Art alongwith meditation, and finding your coping skills we can make your life a happier and more peaceful one.
My therapy helps peoples fears , depression and loss of control due to mental or physical illness.
If you are chronically ill and are having a tough time coping with your disease I can help you.. i have rheumatoid arthritis , I understand .the needs of illness.. Iworked as a Registered Nurse many years in a Hospital, In many different areas. My focus is Oncology Nursing . I have bipolar, OCD, ADHD. ,My entire family of 10 also does. I’ve been in remission for over 40 years with meds,therapy, and art. As an artist for 57 years teaching watercolor and I use art therapy to cure all conditions of mental stress. Art alongwith meditation, and finding your coping skills we can make your life a happier and more peaceful one.
(847) 443-1178 View (847) 443-1178
Photo of Robin J Shapiro, MD, Psychiatrist
Robin J Shapiro
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
I take time to get to know my patients and their concerns. Within the scope of general adult and child and adolescent psychiatry I offer evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, family sessions and consultations, as well as school consultations and evaluations. I have a special interest in eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, and ADHD. My practice is open to other general psychiatric needs as well. I pride myself on getting to know my patients and their needs. I also routinely work with families to understand and cope with their loved one's illness. I use evidence based medicine and the most up to date practices.
I take time to get to know my patients and their concerns. Within the scope of general adult and child and adolescent psychiatry I offer evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, family sessions and consultations, as well as school consultations and evaluations. I have a special interest in eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, and ADHD. My practice is open to other general psychiatric needs as well. I pride myself on getting to know my patients and their needs. I also routinely work with families to understand and cope with their loved one's illness. I use evidence based medicine and the most up to date practices.
(312) 520-9603 View (312) 520-9603
Photo of Andreea Seicean, MD, PhD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Andreea Seicean
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
She treats depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, ADD, PTSD / trauma, irritability, stress, binger eating, chronic pain, alcohol and other substance use disorders.
Andreea Seicean, MD, PhD, MPH, completed her training at Case Western Reserve University, the Cleveland Clinic, and the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). She has extensive experience treating mood and anxiety disorders and addiction in teens and adults. Dr. Seicean has published more than forty articles and been the recipient of multiple awards from: The National Institute of Mental Health, The American Psychiatric Association and The American Association of Neurological Surgeons. She is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago where she continues to be active in research and teaches psychopharmacology
She treats depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, ADD, PTSD / trauma, irritability, stress, binger eating, chronic pain, alcohol and other substance use disorders.
Andreea Seicean, MD, PhD, MPH, completed her training at Case Western Reserve University, the Cleveland Clinic, and the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). She has extensive experience treating mood and anxiety disorders and addiction in teens and adults. Dr. Seicean has published more than forty articles and been the recipient of multiple awards from: The National Institute of Mental Health, The American Psychiatric Association and The American Association of Neurological Surgeons. She is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago where she continues to be active in research and teaches psychopharmacology
(312) 380-2790 View (312) 380-2790
Photo of Michael R Binder - Michael R. Binder M.D. Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael R. Binder M.D. Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
30 years of experience with adults and adolescents; wholistic approach; average time to improvement - 7 days; easy to reach with direct access to pager. Dr. Michael Binder is a graduate of the University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine and former Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at Waukesha Memorial Hospital. He is an innovative neuropsychiatrist who published the first comprehensive psychophysiological hypothesis of psychiatric disorders, an advance that catapulted his success rate to nearly 100%. Dr. Binder offers both psychotherapy and medication management with attention to mind, body, and spirit.
30 years of experience with adults and adolescents; wholistic approach; average time to improvement - 7 days; easy to reach with direct access to pager. Dr. Michael Binder is a graduate of the University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine and former Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at Waukesha Memorial Hospital. He is an innovative neuropsychiatrist who published the first comprehensive psychophysiological hypothesis of psychiatric disorders, an advance that catapulted his success rate to nearly 100%. Dr. Binder offers both psychotherapy and medication management with attention to mind, body, and spirit.
(847) 929-4808 View (847) 929-4808
Photo of Gabriel Heiber, MD, Psychiatrist
Gabriel Heiber
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
My approach is centered on meeting patients where they are at, valuing collaboration that fosters an alliance grounded in trust, empathy and dignity. I take pride in seeing the person in the patient, and taking the time to do so. Together we can explore and pursue options in medications and psychotherapy to find your emotional and physical balance.
My approach is centered on meeting patients where they are at, valuing collaboration that fosters an alliance grounded in trust, empathy and dignity. I take pride in seeing the person in the patient, and taking the time to do so. Together we can explore and pursue options in medications and psychotherapy to find your emotional and physical balance.
(847) 416-8663 View (847) 416-8663
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
Accepting new Illinois patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. My clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting Optum/UHC/UBH, BCBS of IL insurances.
Accepting new Illinois patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. My clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting Optum/UHC/UBH, BCBS of IL insurances.
(312) 561-3923 View (312) 561-3923
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60004  (Online Only)
Accepting new Illinois patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new Illinois patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
(847) 241-1249 View (847) 241-1249
Photo of Gundu Anupama Reddy - llinois Telepsychiatrist, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
llinois Telepsychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067  (Online Only)
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting a residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting a residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
(224) 487-7996 View (224) 487-7996
Photo of Jeff Bondora - BZA Behavioral Health - Arlington Heights office, MEd, LCSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BZA Behavioral Health - Arlington Heights office
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
(847) 892-1654 View (847) 892-1654
Photo of Joanna Missygar (Addiction Speciality), PA-C, Physician Assistant
Joanna Missygar (Addiction Speciality)
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug or alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic psychiatrist for drug or alcohol issues. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(773) 570-2911 View (773) 570-2911
Photo of David Flowers - Holistic Mental Health Partners, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Mental Health Partners
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
I accept new clients for virtual and in-person visits. I am looking to break the stigma surrounding mental health and provide clients with a combination of Western Medicine treatment options, as well as evidence-based holistic approaches in order to develop an individualized treatment plan for each client and help them reach their optimal health. Through my billing partner Headway clients can see exactly what their copay is and progress on their deductible so they always have price transparency. ADHD assessments require an in person appointment. Validated online tool for the diagnosis of adult ADHD and Autism available.
I accept new clients for virtual and in-person visits. I am looking to break the stigma surrounding mental health and provide clients with a combination of Western Medicine treatment options, as well as evidence-based holistic approaches in order to develop an individualized treatment plan for each client and help them reach their optimal health. Through my billing partner Headway clients can see exactly what their copay is and progress on their deductible so they always have price transparency. ADHD assessments require an in person appointment. Validated online tool for the diagnosis of adult ADHD and Autism available.
(224) 412-4427 View (224) 412-4427
Photo of Tangee Ximena Moscoso - Holistic Mental Health Wellness Inc., A, P, N, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Mental Health Wellness Inc.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, A, P, N
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
Are someone who values holistic psychiatric care with a focus on trauma recovery? Are you seeking to understand the root of your struggles, believing in the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit—and the innate capacity for healing? Then we may be a great fit! I appreciate the opportunity to make a positive impact on each person's life. My approach goes beyond symptom management; I aim to minimize medication reliance over time, viewing it as part of a larger puzzle rather than the sole solution. If you're ready to embark on a journey of deep self-discovery, I'm here to guide you toward your healthiest, most empowered self."
Are someone who values holistic psychiatric care with a focus on trauma recovery? Are you seeking to understand the root of your struggles, believing in the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit—and the innate capacity for healing? Then we may be a great fit! I appreciate the opportunity to make a positive impact on each person's life. My approach goes beyond symptom management; I aim to minimize medication reliance over time, viewing it as part of a larger puzzle rather than the sole solution. If you're ready to embark on a journey of deep self-discovery, I'm here to guide you toward your healthiest, most empowered self."
(847) 380-8777 View (847) 380-8777
Photo of Sankrant Reddy, MD, Psychiatrist
Sankrant Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Not accepting new clients
I am a Vanderbilt trained, board-certified Psychiatrist who provides adults psychotherapy and medication management. I integrate psychotherapy into treatment as it is often at times more helpful to reconsider your outlook, improve your coping strategies and alter your behaviors. After residency training, I have had the pleasure of obtaining experience in inpatient hospitals, partial hospitalization programs, substance abuse facilities, nursing homes, and working with organizations serving intellectual and developmental disabled individuals. I utilize psychotherapy into my practice which can lead to even deeper growth and self discovery.
I am a Vanderbilt trained, board-certified Psychiatrist who provides adults psychotherapy and medication management. I integrate psychotherapy into treatment as it is often at times more helpful to reconsider your outlook, improve your coping strategies and alter your behaviors. After residency training, I have had the pleasure of obtaining experience in inpatient hospitals, partial hospitalization programs, substance abuse facilities, nursing homes, and working with organizations serving intellectual and developmental disabled individuals. I utilize psychotherapy into my practice which can lead to even deeper growth and self discovery.
(847) 380-8386 View (847) 380-8386

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Aiden Nicholson, APN, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aiden Nicholson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, CNM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Trauma-informed and passionate about mental health, I bring personal and professional experience to folx facing anxiety, depression, and difficulties navigating the many challenges of life. Whether you are facing infertility, IVF/assisted reproduction, pregnancy loss, difficult and high-risk pregnancy, anxiety/depression during and after pregnancy, previous trauma, chronic pain, low sexual desire and sexual pain/ dysfunction, unhealthy relationships with food, or midlife changes, I want to support you to be your best self. I promise to provide a safe judgment-free space to persons seeking medication management and support.
Trauma-informed and passionate about mental health, I bring personal and professional experience to folx facing anxiety, depression, and difficulties navigating the many challenges of life. Whether you are facing infertility, IVF/assisted reproduction, pregnancy loss, difficult and high-risk pregnancy, anxiety/depression during and after pregnancy, previous trauma, chronic pain, low sexual desire and sexual pain/ dysfunction, unhealthy relationships with food, or midlife changes, I want to support you to be your best self. I promise to provide a safe judgment-free space to persons seeking medication management and support.
(872) 204-1824 View (872) 204-1824
Photo of Connie Shyu, PA, Physician Assistant
Connie Shyu
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Plainfield, IL 60544
Shyu treats patients between the ages of 18 and 99 years old Connie Shyu is a board certified Physician Assistant who treats a wide range of psychiatric conditions with special interest in anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and women's issues like post partum/perimenopausal mood and anxiety conditions. Connie earned a B.S. from University of Illinois and an MA in Medical Sciences from Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL. She practiced in a variety of medical specialties including pulmonary and sleep medicine, pain management, and inpatient and outpatient psychiatry.
Shyu treats patients between the ages of 18 and 99 years old Connie Shyu is a board certified Physician Assistant who treats a wide range of psychiatric conditions with special interest in anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and women's issues like post partum/perimenopausal mood and anxiety conditions. Connie earned a B.S. from University of Illinois and an MA in Medical Sciences from Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL. She practiced in a variety of medical specialties including pulmonary and sleep medicine, pain management, and inpatient and outpatient psychiatry.
(815) 862-8969 View (815) 862-8969
Photo of Richard P. Harris, MD, Psychiatrist
Richard P. Harris
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
What are your symptoms? Anxiety, fatigue, avoidance, sleeplessness, back pain, procrastination, loneliness, anger outbursts..... All symptoms are experiences of pain (dis-ease) and/or ineffective behavior. Symptoms will occur when your "operating system" is overtaxed. My treatment approach focuses on reducing your symptoms and developing more strength and flexibility in your overall managing system, e.g., how you characteristically feel and act in the world. Due to known and as yet unknown problematic side effects of all prescription drugs, I use much safer and ultimately more powerful methods for symptom relief, prevention of recurrence and enduring health.
What are your symptoms? Anxiety, fatigue, avoidance, sleeplessness, back pain, procrastination, loneliness, anger outbursts..... All symptoms are experiences of pain (dis-ease) and/or ineffective behavior. Symptoms will occur when your "operating system" is overtaxed. My treatment approach focuses on reducing your symptoms and developing more strength and flexibility in your overall managing system, e.g., how you characteristically feel and act in the world. Due to known and as yet unknown problematic side effects of all prescription drugs, I use much safer and ultimately more powerful methods for symptom relief, prevention of recurrence and enduring health.
(312) 313-2161 View (312) 313-2161

See more therapy options for Vernon Hills

Chronic Pain Psychiatrists

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, catastrophizing, 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 behavioral 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.