Chronic Pain Therapists in Dallas, TX

Photo of Anna W Stowell - Anna W. Stowell, PhD, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist
Anna W. Stowell, PhD, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
I also have a special interest in helping clients develop strategies for coping with chronic pain and medical illness, whether for themselves or for those caretaking for family members and friends with chronic pain.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, stuck or unsure of who you can talk to? These days, many people who have never struggled, or who have had ups and downs, are finding themselves to be in greater need of having a supportive sounding board. Primarily utilizing a cognitive behavioral approach, I focus on finding solutions for goals identified together in therapy, within a supportive, non-judgmental space. I work exclusively with individual adults, ages 18 and up.
I also have a special interest in helping clients develop strategies for coping with chronic pain and medical illness, whether for themselves or for those caretaking for family members and friends with chronic pain.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, stuck or unsure of who you can talk to? These days, many people who have never struggled, or who have had ups and downs, are finding themselves to be in greater need of having a supportive sounding board. Primarily utilizing a cognitive behavioral approach, I focus on finding solutions for goals identified together in therapy, within a supportive, non-judgmental space. I work exclusively with individual adults, ages 18 and up.
(214) 736-1910 View (214) 736-1910
Photo of Molly Cook, LCSW-S, LCDC, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
Waitlist for new clients
You just want to feel happy, healthy, and confident. Instead you often feel overwhelmed, unsure, or disconnected. Fully connecting with our authentic self and others seems impossible. Sometimes our stress levels are too high or our traumatic life experiences get in the way of finding peace & fulfillment. I'm a firm believer that every person has the capacity for transformational healing. If you're ready to navigate the complexities of life including things like trauma, addiction, chronic pain, or dysfunctional family dynamics with a compassionate guide, you're in the right place.
You just want to feel happy, healthy, and confident. Instead you often feel overwhelmed, unsure, or disconnected. Fully connecting with our authentic self and others seems impossible. Sometimes our stress levels are too high or our traumatic life experiences get in the way of finding peace & fulfillment. I'm a firm believer that every person has the capacity for transformational healing. If you're ready to navigate the complexities of life including things like trauma, addiction, chronic pain, or dysfunctional family dynamics with a compassionate guide, you're in the right place.
(469) 382-4407 View (469) 382-4407
Photo of Claudia Espinosa - Behavioral Health Providers, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Behavioral Health Providers
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
I am available to help individuals address concerns such as anxiety, depression, career stress, chronic pain, and insomnia utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy .
My ideal client is willing to put forth effort to make changes, address their issues, and have a more fulfilled life. I like to help patients maintain their motivation to make specific changes in their life so that they can reach their full potential. I am a Licensed Counselor and Licensed Psychological Associate with Behavioral Health Providers. I have 18 years of experience. I graduated with a Master’s degree in Community Counseling from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, TX and a Doctorate degree (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University in Dallas, TX.
I am available to help individuals address concerns such as anxiety, depression, career stress, chronic pain, and insomnia utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy .
My ideal client is willing to put forth effort to make changes, address their issues, and have a more fulfilled life. I like to help patients maintain their motivation to make specific changes in their life so that they can reach their full potential. I am a Licensed Counselor and Licensed Psychological Associate with Behavioral Health Providers. I have 18 years of experience. I graduated with a Master’s degree in Community Counseling from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, TX and a Doctorate degree (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University in Dallas, TX.
(469) 300-5999 View (469) 300-5999
Photo of Sara Black - Life Navigation Counseling, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Life Navigation Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75248
Trauma and stress have an emotional, psychological and physical impact. We see clients who are experiencing PTSD and other common co-occurring disorders including Functional Neurological Disorders (FND), Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES), chronic pain, illness, and addiction. All of these issues can be addressed using empirically proven techniques that address the whole person - body, mind and spirit. You and your therapist will work together to select from a number of specialties and treatment approaches.
Trauma and stress have an emotional, psychological and physical impact. We see clients who are experiencing PTSD and other common co-occurring disorders including Functional Neurological Disorders (FND), Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES), chronic pain, illness, and addiction. All of these issues can be addressed using empirically proven techniques that address the whole person - body, mind and spirit. You and your therapist will work together to select from a number of specialties and treatment approaches.
(972) 236-7744 View (972) 236-7744
Photo of Janet L. Wisinger - Brain Integration Therapies - Janet L. Wisinger, LPC, LMHC, BCB, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brain Integration Therapies - Janet L. Wisinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, BCB, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201
Calm relationships and controlled responses should not be luxuries reserved for those with unlimited time and money. Learn to return yourself to a life of reason, without the internal voices of judgment, distraction, and indecision propelling you through sleepless nights and physical and emotional pain. It's time to quiet the chaos - in your mind, in your life, and in your world. Integrate your brain - Eliminate the chaos.
Calm relationships and controlled responses should not be luxuries reserved for those with unlimited time and money. Learn to return yourself to a life of reason, without the internal voices of judgment, distraction, and indecision propelling you through sleepless nights and physical and emotional pain. It's time to quiet the chaos - in your mind, in your life, and in your world. Integrate your brain - Eliminate the chaos.
(214) 466-2521 View (214) 466-2521
Photo of Jo Anne Sheehan Spears, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jo Anne Sheehan Spears
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204
Life is too short to live in pain, fear or without joy. I love to help clients resolve issues, improve relationships and find the joy in their life. If you are ready to work to discover why you keep repeating the same problems or situations or you struggle with feeling down or anxious, then I am ready to help you find solutions.
Life is too short to live in pain, fear or without joy. I love to help clients resolve issues, improve relationships and find the joy in their life. If you are ready to work to discover why you keep repeating the same problems or situations or you struggle with feeling down or anxious, then I am ready to help you find solutions.
(214) 296-0101 View (214) 296-0101
Photo of Leigh Kilgore, MSSA, LICSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh Kilgore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LICSW, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75201  (Online Only)
I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which is effective with treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, and chronic pain.
My goal is to provide targeted, well-researched treatments that enable patients to successfully graduate from therapy. At the end of our intake visit, I will share the estimated number of treatments to expect given your history and symptoms. We'll periodically check in on your progress to ensure you are improving and benefiting from therapy. I am licensed in all 50 states, which can make accessing therapy more convenient. I have 15 years of professional experience treating adults and often see patients with anxiety, depression, and/or difficulty managing stress and relationships.
I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which is effective with treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, and chronic pain.
My goal is to provide targeted, well-researched treatments that enable patients to successfully graduate from therapy. At the end of our intake visit, I will share the estimated number of treatments to expect given your history and symptoms. We'll periodically check in on your progress to ensure you are improving and benefiting from therapy. I am licensed in all 50 states, which can make accessing therapy more convenient. I have 15 years of professional experience treating adults and often see patients with anxiety, depression, and/or difficulty managing stress and relationships.
(206) 944-5866 View (206) 944-5866
Photo of Marian Zimmerman, PhD, Psychologist
Marian Zimmerman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75240
I provide cognitive behavioral therapy, motivation enhancement, stress management, behavioral sleep medicine, chronic pain management, relaxation training, mindfulness practice, and psychological testing, as well as individual psychotherapy.
I take a whole body approach to health and illness with a focus on how the mind influences the body just as the body influences the mind. Anxiety, depression, and stress can impact health and exacerbate chronic pain, heart disease, insomnia, and other medical problems. However, addressing the emotional aspects of medical conditions can improve quality of life and physical health. Also, psychological principles can help enhance wellness and lead to lasting behavioral changes. As a health psychologist, I can help you emotionally cope with medical conditions, make healthy lifestyle choices, and learn skills to move forward with your life.
I provide cognitive behavioral therapy, motivation enhancement, stress management, behavioral sleep medicine, chronic pain management, relaxation training, mindfulness practice, and psychological testing, as well as individual psychotherapy.
I take a whole body approach to health and illness with a focus on how the mind influences the body just as the body influences the mind. Anxiety, depression, and stress can impact health and exacerbate chronic pain, heart disease, insomnia, and other medical problems. However, addressing the emotional aspects of medical conditions can improve quality of life and physical health. Also, psychological principles can help enhance wellness and lead to lasting behavioral changes. As a health psychologist, I can help you emotionally cope with medical conditions, make healthy lifestyle choices, and learn skills to move forward with your life.
(214) 935-3975 View (214) 935-3975
Photo of Nancy A. Didriksen, PhD, Psychologist
Nancy A. Didriksen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231
I have specialized in the evaluation and treatment of patients with chemical / environmental sensitivity and/or who have been exposed to neurotoxic substances for more than 30 years. I conduct neuropsychological evaluations for litigation and/or disability issues (private or Social Security disability). I also evaluate patients with ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, MS and chronic pain. The goal of therapy is to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression associated with chronic physical illness and improve coping ability.                                                                
I have specialized in the evaluation and treatment of patients with chemical / environmental sensitivity and/or who have been exposed to neurotoxic substances for more than 30 years. I conduct neuropsychological evaluations for litigation and/or disability issues (private or Social Security disability). I also evaluate patients with ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, MS and chronic pain. The goal of therapy is to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression associated with chronic physical illness and improve coping ability.                                                                
(972) 528-9081 View (972) 528-9081
Photo of Cherie Spellman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cherie Spellman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75201
Get unstuck, heal from trauma, and find relief from physical pain and tension. I provide individualized therapy to every unique person, helping you to find new ways to grow, change, and connect to yourself and others. I help clients with physical and emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, sport injury and sport performance, PTSD, stuck patterns of behavior, unwanted emotional reactions, and performance and creativity enhancement. Client's response to the body/brain approach is awe in noticing things they never have and making new connections that are felt in a way that they can actually take action on.
Get unstuck, heal from trauma, and find relief from physical pain and tension. I provide individualized therapy to every unique person, helping you to find new ways to grow, change, and connect to yourself and others. I help clients with physical and emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, sport injury and sport performance, PTSD, stuck patterns of behavior, unwanted emotional reactions, and performance and creativity enhancement. Client's response to the body/brain approach is awe in noticing things they never have and making new connections that are felt in a way that they can actually take action on.
(682) 228-3790 View (682) 228-3790
Photo of Kelly Knight, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Knight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75218  (Online Only)
Chronic pain and illness can impact all aspects of a person’s life. They can be physically and mentally debilitating and directly affect relationships, work, finances, confidence, and ability to complete even simple daily tasks. If you are having trouble managing symptoms of pain, illness, side effects from treatment, or feeling stressed, worried, or isolated, you are not alone. Millions of people are struggling with health issues, and those around them don’t always understand, don’t know how to help, or both. It can be overwhelming and difficult to handle on your own.
Chronic pain and illness can impact all aspects of a person’s life. They can be physically and mentally debilitating and directly affect relationships, work, finances, confidence, and ability to complete even simple daily tasks. If you are having trouble managing symptoms of pain, illness, side effects from treatment, or feeling stressed, worried, or isolated, you are not alone. Millions of people are struggling with health issues, and those around them don’t always understand, don’t know how to help, or both. It can be overwhelming and difficult to handle on your own.
(469) 608-2346 View (469) 608-2346
Photo of Sharla Austin, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharla Austin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75251
Relationships are complicated and often bring emotional pain, loneliness, anxiety, and discouragement. Committing to someone requires courage and strength. I work with couples, families, and individuals applying the principles of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) which is a research-based treatment for clients seeking emotional connection and fulfillment in relationships. EFT helps clients understand the interactional patterns that cause emotional disconnection. I would love to offer you these tools, deeper understanding, and helpful insight as you seek to repair your most important relationships.
Relationships are complicated and often bring emotional pain, loneliness, anxiety, and discouragement. Committing to someone requires courage and strength. I work with couples, families, and individuals applying the principles of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) which is a research-based treatment for clients seeking emotional connection and fulfillment in relationships. EFT helps clients understand the interactional patterns that cause emotional disconnection. I would love to offer you these tools, deeper understanding, and helpful insight as you seek to repair your most important relationships.
(469) 284-0618 View (469) 284-0618
Photo of Katherine Anne Smith, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine Anne Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205  (Online Only)
Burnout is a common buzzword, but the pain of emotional exhaustion, feeling ineffective, and ongoing cynicism about the importance of your work is real. If you are noticing stress from work bleeding into your life, it might be time for some counseling support around your relationship to work. This counseling work can help you feel empowered and capable to manage all the demands coming your way.
Burnout is a common buzzword, but the pain of emotional exhaustion, feeling ineffective, and ongoing cynicism about the importance of your work is real. If you are noticing stress from work bleeding into your life, it might be time for some counseling support around your relationship to work. This counseling work can help you feel empowered and capable to manage all the demands coming your way.
(254) 268-4543 View (254) 268-4543
Photo of Aika Marie Shinkawa, MS, LPC-A
Aika Marie Shinkawa
LPC Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219
Have you or your teenager been struggling with suicidal thoughts, self-harm, ADHD, Autism, chronic illness, family estrangement, or trauma? Have they come out to you as transgender, or have they recently received a challenging diagnosis? Are you looking for a safe space where you or your loved one can talk and get help moving forward? If this sounds like you, I am here to help. As a transgender, neurodivergent therapist, my lived experience informs my practice in unique and helpful ways that foster empathy & meaningful connection in the therapy room. No matter your identity, I am here to support you and grow alongside you.
Have you or your teenager been struggling with suicidal thoughts, self-harm, ADHD, Autism, chronic illness, family estrangement, or trauma? Have they come out to you as transgender, or have they recently received a challenging diagnosis? Are you looking for a safe space where you or your loved one can talk and get help moving forward? If this sounds like you, I am here to help. As a transgender, neurodivergent therapist, my lived experience informs my practice in unique and helpful ways that foster empathy & meaningful connection in the therapy room. No matter your identity, I am here to support you and grow alongside you.
(214) 271-4419 View (214) 271-4419
Photo of Linda Spang O'Toole, LPC, MS, DBT-LBC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Spang O'Toole
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
Additionally, I work with High-Conflict Couples and Families, provide pre-marital counseling, and work with clients who suffer from Chronic Pain.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a DBT-Linehan Behavioral Certified Clinician with DALLAS DBT. We specialize in treating Borderline Personality Disorder, Emotion Dysregulation, and Complex PTSD using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), and Complex PE. Additionally, I treat clients suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety, and chronic pain. I work with Adults, Adolescents, Parents, and Families
Additionally, I work with High-Conflict Couples and Families, provide pre-marital counseling, and work with clients who suffer from Chronic Pain.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a DBT-Linehan Behavioral Certified Clinician with DALLAS DBT. We specialize in treating Borderline Personality Disorder, Emotion Dysregulation, and Complex PTSD using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), and Complex PE. Additionally, I treat clients suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety, and chronic pain. I work with Adults, Adolescents, Parents, and Families
(972) 918-0170 x4 View (972) 918-0170 x4
Photo of Sara Black, MS, LPC-S, LCDC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LCDC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
Typically, clients come to see me when their previous experiences with traditional "talk" therapy haven't helped to resolve their symptoms. Trauma and stress have an emotional, psychological and physical impact, but we often need to start treatment at the most basic level: calming the nervous system. I see clients who are experiencing chronic pain, illness, addiction, PTSD and other common co-occurring disorders including Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) or Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES). All of these issues can be treated using empirically proven techniques that address the whole person - body, mind and spirit.
Typically, clients come to see me when their previous experiences with traditional "talk" therapy haven't helped to resolve their symptoms. Trauma and stress have an emotional, psychological and physical impact, but we often need to start treatment at the most basic level: calming the nervous system. I see clients who are experiencing chronic pain, illness, addiction, PTSD and other common co-occurring disorders including Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) or Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES). All of these issues can be treated using empirically proven techniques that address the whole person - body, mind and spirit.
(972) 863-7133 View (972) 863-7133
Photo of Travis Whitfill - Travis Whitfill, PhD, Psychologist
Travis Whitfill
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
In my years of work in a hospital setting at UT Southwestern Medical Center, I gained expertise in managing medical issues including chronic pain and adjustment to illness which involves mindfulness/behavioral interventions.
Making the decision on which therapist to work with is based on many factors. Perhaps the most important factor is finding someone you are comfortable with so they can be of help. My goal in working with clients is to start by establishing a nonjudgmental, yet honest, relationship that is supportive enough to explore topics and gain insight into issues most relevant to them. I have experience working with clients from all backgrounds with a variety of difficulties, including relationship issues, life transitions, depression, identity struggles, anxiety, and grief.
In my years of work in a hospital setting at UT Southwestern Medical Center, I gained expertise in managing medical issues including chronic pain and adjustment to illness which involves mindfulness/behavioral interventions.
Making the decision on which therapist to work with is based on many factors. Perhaps the most important factor is finding someone you are comfortable with so they can be of help. My goal in working with clients is to start by establishing a nonjudgmental, yet honest, relationship that is supportive enough to explore topics and gain insight into issues most relevant to them. I have experience working with clients from all backgrounds with a variety of difficulties, including relationship issues, life transitions, depression, identity struggles, anxiety, and grief.
(469) 502-7213 View (469) 502-7213
Photo of Dorothy Knoll, PhD, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dorothy Knoll
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204
My work with clients who live with chronic pain is also a speciality.
The client and I are partners in developing the skills necessary for managing the stresses of life while determining what a meaningful life looks like for them. Although we look at the past to learn from it, the client and I generally focus on the present and future and the unique strengths of the client. This collaborative model of therapy aids the client in taking more control of their life.
My work with clients who live with chronic pain is also a speciality.
The client and I are partners in developing the skills necessary for managing the stresses of life while determining what a meaningful life looks like for them. Although we look at the past to learn from it, the client and I generally focus on the present and future and the unique strengths of the client. This collaborative model of therapy aids the client in taking more control of their life.
(913) 828-4670 View (913) 828-4670
Photo of Carolyn Hubbard, MA, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolyn Hubbard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231
Sensitivity and compassion, based on acceptance of any of life's painful circumstances, is my passionate aproach to therapy. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. Whatever pain you are experiencing; depression, anxiety, substance abuse, grief, relationship issues in families or couples, divorce, family of origin issues, unhealthy communication, work issues, alcololism, or any addiction that is destroying your life, and the need for self confidence or emotional maturity. The pain of each issue can be addressed, worked through, relieved and released. Change is possible!
Sensitivity and compassion, based on acceptance of any of life's painful circumstances, is my passionate aproach to therapy. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. Whatever pain you are experiencing; depression, anxiety, substance abuse, grief, relationship issues in families or couples, divorce, family of origin issues, unhealthy communication, work issues, alcololism, or any addiction that is destroying your life, and the need for self confidence or emotional maturity. The pain of each issue can be addressed, worked through, relieved and released. Change is possible!
(469) 253-4451 View (469) 253-4451
Photo of Ellen Chernoff Simon, MS, MEd, LPC, BCB, CA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellen Chernoff Simon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC, BCB, CA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
If you feel anxious or depressed about a problem or habit you want to change worsened by stress such as weight issues, relationship concerns or addictions, then hypnotherapy & neurofeedback together can help you regain a sense of peace & enhanced well being. I also practice IFS & bio- neurofeedback. I believe in a mind body approach to help reduce stress from physical conditions such as pain, illness, sleep and digestive disorders. It is my intention to empower every person to experience their innate wisdom & inner guidance. I am certified in Ketamine assisted therapy which takes place in my office. Contact me if you are interested.
If you feel anxious or depressed about a problem or habit you want to change worsened by stress such as weight issues, relationship concerns or addictions, then hypnotherapy & neurofeedback together can help you regain a sense of peace & enhanced well being. I also practice IFS & bio- neurofeedback. I believe in a mind body approach to help reduce stress from physical conditions such as pain, illness, sleep and digestive disorders. It is my intention to empower every person to experience their innate wisdom & inner guidance. I am certified in Ketamine assisted therapy which takes place in my office. Contact me if you are interested.
(972) 891-9696 View (972) 891-9696
1
...
Chronic Pain Therapists

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.