Chronic Pain Psychiatrists in Illinois
![Photo of Richard P. Harris, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/423955ba-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Lizabeth Lee Johnson R.n. - Lizas Art Works, RN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f21bf63-1b59-408e-9d7f-323b7c6f80ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Angela S. Peters, DNP, PMHNP, ANP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae5c3ec3-b95c-49c0-8ff7-727835221efb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling and ready for a change? If you are looking to connect with a provider who cares and accepts you for you...you're in the right place! I am a Nurse Practitioner dual certified in psychiatry and adult health with additional certification in pain management. My background before psychiatry included pain management, oncology, primary care, and education which gives me a unique perspective. I like to get to know you as a person and understand what your struggles are so that we can work together toward improving your mental wellness.
Are you struggling and ready for a change? If you are looking to connect with a provider who cares and accepts you for you...you're in the right place! I am a Nurse Practitioner dual certified in psychiatry and adult health with additional certification in pain management. My background before psychiatry included pain management, oncology, primary care, and education which gives me a unique perspective. I like to get to know you as a person and understand what your struggles are so that we can work together toward improving your mental wellness.
![Photo of Robert Lloyd, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fb1ecaf-5028-42c2-8479-e41060368da3/2/320x400.jpeg)
My expertise is in treating mood, trauma, anxiety, and attention-related disorders. I take an integrative approach in considering the brain-body connection to treat mental illness, while identifying physical, emotional, and cognitive factors that impact treatment. My background is at the interface of medicine and psychiatry and I support a collaborative, multi-modal approach to helping patients achieve functional improvement and recovery. I am currently accepting new patients and see all patients in person for the initial consultation.
My expertise is in treating mood, trauma, anxiety, and attention-related disorders. I take an integrative approach in considering the brain-body connection to treat mental illness, while identifying physical, emotional, and cognitive factors that impact treatment. My background is at the interface of medicine and psychiatry and I support a collaborative, multi-modal approach to helping patients achieve functional improvement and recovery. I am currently accepting new patients and see all patients in person for the initial consultation.
![Photo of Lauren Kofod, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53831faa-6d71-47b7-a56e-0b2707edbb57/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double board certified psychiatrist with nearly 20 years of experience in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, eating disorders, and addictions. I have board certification in general psychiatry as well as consultation liaison psychiatry, which is the branch of psychiatry that focuses on how the mind and body interact in illness and in stress. My goal in working with patients is to listen and connect, helping to guide effective treatment which is both evidence-based as well as in line with the values of the patient.
I am a double board certified psychiatrist with nearly 20 years of experience in treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, eating disorders, and addictions. I have board certification in general psychiatry as well as consultation liaison psychiatry, which is the branch of psychiatry that focuses on how the mind and body interact in illness and in stress. My goal in working with patients is to listen and connect, helping to guide effective treatment which is both evidence-based as well as in line with the values of the patient.
![Photo of Connie Shyu, PA, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a2138f4-77e7-45ab-823a-8bedd8e21991/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Alexander E. Obolsky, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49741fad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
From time to time, our lives take an unexpected turn for the worse. We may suffer injury; succumb to physical or emotional illness, or experience conflict, loss, misfortune. Trauma and chronic disability may affect our loved ones or us. Life adversities may temporarily overwhelm our ability to carry on. We may turn pessimistic, doubtful, and hopeless. Feel demoralized, worried, and anxious. Suffer sadness, distress, and anguish. Become angry and resentful. Feel distrustful and quarrel with others. Recognize our isolation and loneliness. At such times, we could benefit from a psychiatric evaluation and treatment, including psychotherapy and prescription medicine.
From time to time, our lives take an unexpected turn for the worse. We may suffer injury; succumb to physical or emotional illness, or experience conflict, loss, misfortune. Trauma and chronic disability may affect our loved ones or us. Life adversities may temporarily overwhelm our ability to carry on. We may turn pessimistic, doubtful, and hopeless. Feel demoralized, worried, and anxious. Suffer sadness, distress, and anguish. Become angry and resentful. Feel distrustful and quarrel with others. Recognize our isolation and loneliness. At such times, we could benefit from a psychiatric evaluation and treatment, including psychotherapy and prescription medicine.
![Photo of Robin J Shapiro, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be68c44-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Andreea Seicean, MD, PhD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70f6caf8-66ef-4911-8f98-e4ada2423826/4/320x400.jpeg)
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
![Photo of Kristine L Kitchener - Owl Tree Therapy, RN, BSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db647a36-8b97-4db8-b5f2-9962193ba7e9/1/320x400.png)
Owl Tree Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, BSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60435
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I have worked with individuals from 13 through end of life, couples, families and groups. I am most comfortable working with college students, midlife through geriatric age. I work with individuals struggling with PTSD, anxiety/depression, grief and loss, addiction/chemical illness, chronic pain, eating disorders, sexual abuse/trauma, and sleep disturbances.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I have worked with individuals from 13 through end of life, couples, families and groups. I am most comfortable working with college students, midlife through geriatric age. I work with individuals struggling with PTSD, anxiety/depression, grief and loss, addiction/chemical illness, chronic pain, eating disorders, sexual abuse/trauma, and sleep disturbances.
![Photo of Kristine L Kitchener, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b474aaf-88cc-4909-b95f-282d0ed5e97e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristine L Kitchener
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60435
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I have worked with individuals from 13 through end of life, couples, families and groups. I am most comfortable working with college students, midlife through geriatric age. I work with individuals struggling with PTSD, anxiety/depression, grief and loss, addiction/chemical illness, chronic pain, eating disorders, sexual abuse/trauma, and sleep disturbances.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I have worked with individuals from 13 through end of life, couples, families and groups. I am most comfortable working with college students, midlife through geriatric age. I work with individuals struggling with PTSD, anxiety/depression, grief and loss, addiction/chemical illness, chronic pain, eating disorders, sexual abuse/trauma, and sleep disturbances.
15 Second Videos
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Shumeka Hill
Amy Milroy
![Photo of Andreea Seicean, MD, PhD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a519441-997c-414b-967e-5fce6ee03b15/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Shani Alam, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cf26dc2-2c42-4894-9e22-bbfce057a433/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been practicing general adult psychiatry since 1997 and have extensive expertise in evaluating and treating individuals of all ages, as well as treating a wide variety of emotional and mental conditions that range from mood/anxiety disorders, substance abuse, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and eating disorders to consulting with clients about grief, trauma, work stress, relationship problems, adoption, legal cases, disability, and other major life changing events. I utilize biopsychosocial approach to mental illness that takes into account each individual's physical health, environment, and psychological experiences throughout their life.
I have been practicing general adult psychiatry since 1997 and have extensive expertise in evaluating and treating individuals of all ages, as well as treating a wide variety of emotional and mental conditions that range from mood/anxiety disorders, substance abuse, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and eating disorders to consulting with clients about grief, trauma, work stress, relationship problems, adoption, legal cases, disability, and other major life changing events. I utilize biopsychosocial approach to mental illness that takes into account each individual's physical health, environment, and psychological experiences throughout their life.
![Photo of Jamie Lee, DPT, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2812b9fa-5227-4839-ab54-94201fd297ac/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jamie Lee is a dual-licensed nurse practitioner and physical therapist. He is one of the only clinicians in the country to hold a doctorate in both professions. He is double board-certified in psychiatric mental health (PMHNP) and family practice (FNP). He is also residency-trained and board-certified in orthopedic physical therapy (visit drjamielee.com for info). He is the CEO of Equanimity Health (www.eqmyhealth.com), where he provides psychotherapy and medication management. He also works at Glaser & Randhawa Mental Group in Countryside, where he works with a multidisciplinary team to provide psychiatric care (age 6 & up).
Dr. Jamie Lee is a dual-licensed nurse practitioner and physical therapist. He is one of the only clinicians in the country to hold a doctorate in both professions. He is double board-certified in psychiatric mental health (PMHNP) and family practice (FNP). He is also residency-trained and board-certified in orthopedic physical therapy (visit drjamielee.com for info). He is the CEO of Equanimity Health (www.eqmyhealth.com), where he provides psychotherapy and medication management. He also works at Glaser & Randhawa Mental Group in Countryside, where he works with a multidisciplinary team to provide psychiatric care (age 6 & up).
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35d66910-274a-45e9-9b5e-9102af647021/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60432 (Online Only)
Accepting new 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 your appointment for a virtual online visit today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new 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 your appointment for a virtual online visit today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
![Photo of Jason Sweazy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f67087d-bd3c-4c5b-a4ea-8df39c1ae7ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
I bring enthusiasm, competence, and compassion to my patient care. I am focused and disciplined with a positive and collaborative nature. I am committed to using best practices, to consulting and using the latest evidence-based algorithms and to using the most current resources (UpToDate, NEI, Epocrates, and Lexicomp). I take special pride in providing excellent education to patients and their families.
I bring enthusiasm, competence, and compassion to my patient care. I am focused and disciplined with a positive and collaborative nature. I am committed to using best practices, to consulting and using the latest evidence-based algorithms and to using the most current resources (UpToDate, NEI, Epocrates, and Lexicomp). I take special pride in providing excellent education to patients and their families.
![Photo of Dr. Suzanne Chan - Integrative Primary Care and Mental Health Clinic, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d96f5e82-06db-4a6d-bef5-cadc9b2ce598/1/320x400.jpeg)
Integrative Primary Care and Mental Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60616 (Online Only)
As a dual broad-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing holistic care that addresses both the physical and mental well-being of my patients. In my role as a PMHNP, I strive to offer compassionate support and evidence-based treatments to individuals facing mental health challenges. Through therapeutic interventions and medication management, I aim to empower my patients to navigate their emotions, overcome obstacles, and achieve optimal mental wellness. Simultaneously, as an FNP, I am committed to promoting overall health.
As a dual broad-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing holistic care that addresses both the physical and mental well-being of my patients. In my role as a PMHNP, I strive to offer compassionate support and evidence-based treatments to individuals facing mental health challenges. Through therapeutic interventions and medication management, I aim to empower my patients to navigate their emotions, overcome obstacles, and achieve optimal mental wellness. Simultaneously, as an FNP, I am committed to promoting overall health.
![Photo of Umesh Rao Chakunta, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/832a13fd-93f5-4050-889b-2110e8cdaabb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Umesh Rao Chakunta is an Adult and Geriatric Psychiatrist in Illinois who has been practicing since 2012. Following Medical Education in India, Dr. Chakunta completed Adult Psychiatry Residency at University of South Dakota in Sioux Falls and Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Mount Sinai school of Medicine in New York. He is board certified by the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. Dr. Chakunta has a special Interest in managing mood disorders, thought disorders, anxiety disorders, and behavioral problems associated with dementia.
Dr. Umesh Rao Chakunta is an Adult and Geriatric Psychiatrist in Illinois who has been practicing since 2012. Following Medical Education in India, Dr. Chakunta completed Adult Psychiatry Residency at University of South Dakota in Sioux Falls and Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Mount Sinai school of Medicine in New York. He is board certified by the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. Dr. Chakunta has a special Interest in managing mood disorders, thought disorders, anxiety disorders, and behavioral problems associated with dementia.
![Photo of Abhijit Shinde - Balance Ketamine Clinics, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51ef9788-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We provide I.V. Ketamine therapy for treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders. Clinical studies clearly indicate that ketamine provides rapid relief from depressive symptoms and a significant reduction in suicidal thoughts. Ketamine offers hope to those with severe depression, anxiety and PTSD. This includes major depressive disorders, postpartum depression, bipolar depression, OCD and severe anxiety states. No other severe depression treatment offers such rapid and robust results. We believe that personalized care tailored to you is the best way to succeed in helping you.
We provide I.V. Ketamine therapy for treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders. Clinical studies clearly indicate that ketamine provides rapid relief from depressive symptoms and a significant reduction in suicidal thoughts. Ketamine offers hope to those with severe depression, anxiety and PTSD. This includes major depressive disorders, postpartum depression, bipolar depression, OCD and severe anxiety states. No other severe depression treatment offers such rapid and robust results. We believe that personalized care tailored to you is the best way to succeed in helping you.
![Photo of Dr. Pamela Solowski (Addiction Treatment), MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7b24cbc-8165-416c-8ac0-5fce25067557/1/320x400.jpeg)
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).
See more therapy options for Illinois
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.