Chronic Pain Therapists in Ponte Vedra, FL

Photo of Stephanie Peyton, LCSW-QS, DMCP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Peyton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-QS, DMCP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082
Waitlist for new clients
Have you experienced difficult events, some beyond your control? Perhaps you struggle adjusting to "new norms" in your life, endure panic attacks, or have to force yourself to face each day. At some point, most of us are affected by traumatic events. Complex grief; abuse; military combat; abandonment; assault; chronic pain; and divorce are just a few examples. These experiences can leave us depressed, anxious, fearful or battling post-traumatic stress. They can leave us exhausted without the strength or resources to manage them.
Have you experienced difficult events, some beyond your control? Perhaps you struggle adjusting to "new norms" in your life, endure panic attacks, or have to force yourself to face each day. At some point, most of us are affected by traumatic events. Complex grief; abuse; military combat; abandonment; assault; chronic pain; and divorce are just a few examples. These experiences can leave us depressed, anxious, fearful or battling post-traumatic stress. They can leave us exhausted without the strength or resources to manage them.
(904) 872-8374 View (904) 872-8374
Photo of Nada Frazier, MSW, RCSWI
Nada Frazier
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082
I support people in planning/adjusting to life transitions such as loss, grieving, coping with a diagnosis/chronic illness (patient &/or loved ones) and pain, caregiving, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, and depression. We will focus on you as the expert of your life and identify your strengths to help in your personal growth, self-discovery, and development. We will collaboratively add tools to your life skills toolbox. I also work with professionals experiencing career transitions, compassion fatigue, and burnout and help develop practical and empowering self-care practices, increased functioning, and life fulfillment.
I support people in planning/adjusting to life transitions such as loss, grieving, coping with a diagnosis/chronic illness (patient &/or loved ones) and pain, caregiving, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, and depression. We will focus on you as the expert of your life and identify your strengths to help in your personal growth, self-discovery, and development. We will collaboratively add tools to your life skills toolbox. I also work with professionals experiencing career transitions, compassion fatigue, and burnout and help develop practical and empowering self-care practices, increased functioning, and life fulfillment.
(904) 849-9704 View (904) 849-9704
Photo of Eileen S Crawford, MS, MBA, LMHC
Eileen S Crawford
Mental Health Counselor, MS, MBA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
Taking that first step to meet a counselor shows courage and strength, even when you might be feeling anything but that. I work hard to make sure you are comfortable in the counseling process. Together, we set therapeutic goals specific to your needs and develop a flexible treatment approach based on your strengths and resources. My work with couples uses Gottman Relationship Therapy, which has proven highly effective. Research-based, it focuses on teaching couples tools and techniques to build a fuller, happier long-term relationship. I welcome individuals, couples and families, and work with pre-teens to seniors.
Taking that first step to meet a counselor shows courage and strength, even when you might be feeling anything but that. I work hard to make sure you are comfortable in the counseling process. Together, we set therapeutic goals specific to your needs and develop a flexible treatment approach based on your strengths and resources. My work with couples uses Gottman Relationship Therapy, which has proven highly effective. Research-based, it focuses on teaching couples tools and techniques to build a fuller, happier long-term relationship. I welcome individuals, couples and families, and work with pre-teens to seniors.
(407) 680-1758 View (407) 680-1758
Photo of Lewis J Moskowitz - Lewis J Moskowitz, Ph.D., LMHC, PA, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Lewis J Moskowitz, Ph.D., LMHC, PA
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
Your future depends on what you do in the present! Feeling: Anxious? Fearful? Frustrated? Confused? Depressed? Stressed out? Overwhelmed?? Unable to fall asleep? Can't turn your mind off? Are you lacking confidence, struggling at work or school? Procrastinating? Low self-esteem? Are your relationships crumbling? Feeling betrayed & alone? Are you fighting with a difficult child? Angry, grieving or in a dark place & unable to pull yourself out? Struggling with letting go of the past? Or just feeling stuck? All you know is that what you've done before isn't going to get you where you want to be!
Your future depends on what you do in the present! Feeling: Anxious? Fearful? Frustrated? Confused? Depressed? Stressed out? Overwhelmed?? Unable to fall asleep? Can't turn your mind off? Are you lacking confidence, struggling at work or school? Procrastinating? Low self-esteem? Are your relationships crumbling? Feeling betrayed & alone? Are you fighting with a difficult child? Angry, grieving or in a dark place & unable to pull yourself out? Struggling with letting go of the past? Or just feeling stuck? All you know is that what you've done before isn't going to get you where you want to be!
(904) 615-6752 View (904) 615-6752
Photo of Isobel McGrath, MS, LMHC, CAP, CHT, CLC, Counselor
Isobel McGrath
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CAP, CHT, CLC
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082
"Why continue to struggle alone?" Often we need expert guidance to move forward. My holistic, non-judging, compassionate, realistic approach helps you break free from the past and unhealthy behaviors. Cllients report feeling an increase in confidence, self control, well-being and improved relationships. I have successfully assisted others in the many life challenges: anxiety, fears(flying, driving), trauma, depression, addictions(alcohol, drugs, sex, weight/body), co-dependency. Visit http://mindful-options.com/ for a FREE mind makeover(mp3/pdf) to decrease stress and calm your emotions today. Telephone/video available.
"Why continue to struggle alone?" Often we need expert guidance to move forward. My holistic, non-judging, compassionate, realistic approach helps you break free from the past and unhealthy behaviors. Cllients report feeling an increase in confidence, self control, well-being and improved relationships. I have successfully assisted others in the many life challenges: anxiety, fears(flying, driving), trauma, depression, addictions(alcohol, drugs, sex, weight/body), co-dependency. Visit http://mindful-options.com/ for a FREE mind makeover(mp3/pdf) to decrease stress and calm your emotions today. Telephone/video available.
(904) 209-9122 View (904) 209-9122
Photo of Dr. Michael Nackashi, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Dr. Michael Nackashi
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
I'm Dr. Nackashi, a clinical psychologist, who earned a doctorate from Nova Southeastern University. I trained in VA hospitals & community mental health & university counseling centers. I've spent the last five years providing individual and group psychotherapy to adolescents and young adults presenting with anxiety/panic, depression, interpersonal challenges, adjustment difficulty, ADHD, substance misuse, trauma/sexual assault, identity concerns, suicidality, and issues related to cultural discrimination. I also offer couples therapy to young adults and provide psychological assessments for students and young professionals.
I'm Dr. Nackashi, a clinical psychologist, who earned a doctorate from Nova Southeastern University. I trained in VA hospitals & community mental health & university counseling centers. I've spent the last five years providing individual and group psychotherapy to adolescents and young adults presenting with anxiety/panic, depression, interpersonal challenges, adjustment difficulty, ADHD, substance misuse, trauma/sexual assault, identity concerns, suicidality, and issues related to cultural discrimination. I also offer couples therapy to young adults and provide psychological assessments for students and young professionals.
(904) 529-0277 View (904) 529-0277
Photo of Janet Fienemann, LCSW, EdD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Fienemann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082
Ready to feel calm, capable, have rewarding relationships, and speak your mind? Tired of playing small, people-pleasing, feeling resentful, confused, exhausted and anxious? You CAN crush your inner critic and create the confidence, relationships, and life you wish for. Over the last thirty years as a therapist and coach, I have learned HOW to manage your anxiety & emotions, how to say "no" and also "yes" (to help, love, joy); how to create fulfilling, peaceful and supportive relationships; and to be grounded in the present moment - grateful for and able to appreciate what matters most.
Ready to feel calm, capable, have rewarding relationships, and speak your mind? Tired of playing small, people-pleasing, feeling resentful, confused, exhausted and anxious? You CAN crush your inner critic and create the confidence, relationships, and life you wish for. Over the last thirty years as a therapist and coach, I have learned HOW to manage your anxiety & emotions, how to say "no" and also "yes" (to help, love, joy); how to create fulfilling, peaceful and supportive relationships; and to be grounded in the present moment - grateful for and able to appreciate what matters most.
(904) 567-3873 View (904) 567-3873
Photo of Heather Brinker, MS, LMHC, AAT-C, Counselor
Heather Brinker
Counselor, MS, LMHC, AAT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082
Courage! The first step in seeking counseling is having the courage to ask for help. Hi, my name is Heather, and welcome! I specialize in supporting individuals with a current or past history of trauma or abuse, experiencing depression and/or anxiety, experiencing challenging relationship bonds, are in the midst of a life transition, or to learn effective healthy stress management skills. I am an integrative and experiential counselor meaning, I help clients utilizing techniques focused on healing the mind, body, and spirit through various modalities and experiences while based in a traditional counseling setting.
Courage! The first step in seeking counseling is having the courage to ask for help. Hi, my name is Heather, and welcome! I specialize in supporting individuals with a current or past history of trauma or abuse, experiencing depression and/or anxiety, experiencing challenging relationship bonds, are in the midst of a life transition, or to learn effective healthy stress management skills. I am an integrative and experiential counselor meaning, I help clients utilizing techniques focused on healing the mind, body, and spirit through various modalities and experiences while based in a traditional counseling setting.
(904) 906-3820 View (904) 906-3820
Photo of Monarch Counseling Group - Monarch Counseling Group, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monarch Counseling Group, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081  (Online Only)
Now Accepting Clients in Florida and Virginia! Monarch Counseling Group LLC brings together experts in the field of Mental Health serving all of VA, FL and WA through virtual therapy. Our practice has licensed and experienced, fully virtual clinicians who hold certifications and additional trainings to work in their field. Additionally we offer EMDR therapists that can work in Washington, Virginia and Florida.
Now Accepting Clients in Florida and Virginia! Monarch Counseling Group LLC brings together experts in the field of Mental Health serving all of VA, FL and WA through virtual therapy. Our practice has licensed and experienced, fully virtual clinicians who hold certifications and additional trainings to work in their field. Additionally we offer EMDR therapists that can work in Washington, Virginia and Florida.
(786) 244-3342 View (786) 244-3342
Photo of Cally Sullivan, LMHC, MEd
Cally Sullivan
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
The thoughts of harming yourself are a hard thing for a lot of people to comprehend, which can make even asking for help seem impossible. It’s often hard to reach out to close friends or family…nevermind some stranger that says that they can help. I strive to offer every client a supportive, non-judgmental approach to help explore where you are at, how you’ve been coping with it, and what a tomorrow that is worth living for would truly look like. No one starts cutting or thinking about suicide without a good reason. No matter what your reason is, it matters, even if others have told you otherwise.
The thoughts of harming yourself are a hard thing for a lot of people to comprehend, which can make even asking for help seem impossible. It’s often hard to reach out to close friends or family…nevermind some stranger that says that they can help. I strive to offer every client a supportive, non-judgmental approach to help explore where you are at, how you’ve been coping with it, and what a tomorrow that is worth living for would truly look like. No one starts cutting or thinking about suicide without a good reason. No matter what your reason is, it matters, even if others have told you otherwise.
(352) 759-4417 View (352) 759-4417
Photo of Lori A Cowan, LPC, LMFT, LMHC, CRC, Counselor
Lori A Cowan
Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082
I am accepting new in-person and telehealth clients. My job is to work along side you to meet your mental health goals whether it be to overcome trauma and adversity or just improve mood and wellbeing. I have concentrated experience in helping individuals with co-existing physical and mental health concerns.
I am accepting new in-person and telehealth clients. My job is to work along side you to meet your mental health goals whether it be to overcome trauma and adversity or just improve mood and wellbeing. I have concentrated experience in helping individuals with co-existing physical and mental health concerns.
(904) 298-6814 View (904) 298-6814

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Barbara Dulaney Bishop, LMFT, LMHC, CCMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Dulaney Bishop
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
For more than 30 years I have had the privilege of offering guidance to individuals, couples and families who want to make responsible changes in their lives. Whether you are experiencing anxiety * depression * marital stress * divorce * grief * illness * trauma * substance abuse * difficult parent-child relationships; we will work as a team to deal with sources of problems and design strategies for healthier approaches. Our goal is to transform distress and challenges into valuable life lessons. In addition, I was the first licensed mental health professional in NE Florida to teach Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction classes.
For more than 30 years I have had the privilege of offering guidance to individuals, couples and families who want to make responsible changes in their lives. Whether you are experiencing anxiety * depression * marital stress * divorce * grief * illness * trauma * substance abuse * difficult parent-child relationships; we will work as a team to deal with sources of problems and design strategies for healthier approaches. Our goal is to transform distress and challenges into valuable life lessons. In addition, I was the first licensed mental health professional in NE Florida to teach Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction classes.
(904) 647-1694 View (904) 647-1694
Photo of Jeannie Mitchell - EMDR Trauma Therapy Center, LLC, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, EMDR
EMDR Trauma Therapy Center, LLC
LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
It allows your brain to heal and manage emotional flooding or anxiety caused by recalling distressful events, fear, or pain from past experiences.
The therapists and nurse practitioners at EMDR Trauma Therapy Center are highly trained in treating symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and phobias either online or in person. We treat adults and adolescents and have experience serving special populations such as veterans, first responders, and professionals. Our highly trained medication providers and therapists specialize in treatments such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT, and many others. You can fully express yourself in a supportive, non-judgmental setting to overcome adversities and manage your symptoms.
It allows your brain to heal and manage emotional flooding or anxiety caused by recalling distressful events, fear, or pain from past experiences.
The therapists and nurse practitioners at EMDR Trauma Therapy Center are highly trained in treating symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and phobias either online or in person. We treat adults and adolescents and have experience serving special populations such as veterans, first responders, and professionals. Our highly trained medication providers and therapists specialize in treatments such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT, and many others. You can fully express yourself in a supportive, non-judgmental setting to overcome adversities and manage your symptoms.
(904) 320-1043 View (904) 320-1043
Photo of Christy Holliday, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Christy Holliday
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
I have extensive training and study in Mind Body Pain Psychology, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, Attachment Theory and Somatic Experiencing.
My desire is to provide each client the opportunity to find HOPE. Hope for understanding, healing and growth. Hope for freedom, joy, and peace. Hope for wholeness and real, true rest. The truth is, life is hard. We often find ourselves confused, disillusioned, disappointed, angry, sad, afraid, addicted or simply numb to it all. The process of counseling can and does often lead a person to a place of newfound hope, where one can experience the broken parts of their stories and relationships restored.
I have extensive training and study in Mind Body Pain Psychology, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, Attachment Theory and Somatic Experiencing.
My desire is to provide each client the opportunity to find HOPE. Hope for understanding, healing and growth. Hope for freedom, joy, and peace. Hope for wholeness and real, true rest. The truth is, life is hard. We often find ourselves confused, disillusioned, disappointed, angry, sad, afraid, addicted or simply numb to it all. The process of counseling can and does often lead a person to a place of newfound hope, where one can experience the broken parts of their stories and relationships restored.
(352) 478-4519 View (352) 478-4519
Photo of Jennifer Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, numb, or just not yourself? Are you feeling stuck or lost in life or your relationships? I offer a safe environment in which you can gain support and guidance in navigating the difficult challenges you face. I am passionate about helping you to find solutions to your problems and build strong and healthy relationships in your life. I'm here to help you get through the tough times and feel like yourself again. As a therapist who specializes in relationships, I will help you discover ways to strengthen your connections with others or find healing from the pain that can often come from those connections.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, numb, or just not yourself? Are you feeling stuck or lost in life or your relationships? I offer a safe environment in which you can gain support and guidance in navigating the difficult challenges you face. I am passionate about helping you to find solutions to your problems and build strong and healthy relationships in your life. I'm here to help you get through the tough times and feel like yourself again. As a therapist who specializes in relationships, I will help you discover ways to strengthen your connections with others or find healing from the pain that can often come from those connections.
(904) 295-1780 View (904) 295-1780
Photo of Ron Cipriano - Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling, MS, CAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, CAP
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
We also provide pain management, SAP evaluations, among others.
WE ARE REALLY AT THE BEACH!!! Ron Cipriano is the Treatment Director for the Substance Abuse IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) at the Jacksonville Beach office of Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling. There are daytime and a night time groups available. In addition to substance abuse, alcoholism and drug addiction groups, I also have individual counseling sessions for addictions and mental health/family/marital counseling.
We also provide pain management, SAP evaluations, among others.
WE ARE REALLY AT THE BEACH!!! Ron Cipriano is the Treatment Director for the Substance Abuse IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) at the Jacksonville Beach office of Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling. There are daytime and a night time groups available. In addition to substance abuse, alcoholism and drug addiction groups, I also have individual counseling sessions for addictions and mental health/family/marital counseling.
(904) 513-9445 View (904) 513-9445
Photo of Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, PsyD, MS, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Justin D'Arienzo
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, ABPP
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Forensic & Board Certified Clinical Psychologist, Relationship & Addiction Expert, licensed in FL, TX, NM. Offering virtual services but will travel for specialized face-to-face extended services. When you make the decision to change, finding a competent professional with the right training & experience matters. I work with patients & couples seeking significant lifestyle changes. I will be with you each step of the way, providing you with the highest quality of care. Featured on TikTok & Instagram at dr.justindarienzo, TLC's My Strange Addiction, Lifetime's Killer Kids, ID's Twisted Sister, & Oprah's TD Jakes's Show.
Forensic & Board Certified Clinical Psychologist, Relationship & Addiction Expert, licensed in FL, TX, NM. Offering virtual services but will travel for specialized face-to-face extended services. When you make the decision to change, finding a competent professional with the right training & experience matters. I work with patients & couples seeking significant lifestyle changes. I will be with you each step of the way, providing you with the highest quality of care. Featured on TikTok & Instagram at dr.justindarienzo, TLC's My Strange Addiction, Lifetime's Killer Kids, ID's Twisted Sister, & Oprah's TD Jakes's Show.
(904) 715-4521 View (904) 715-4521
Photo of Pamela Osborne, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Osborne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
I understand that reaching out for help can seem overwhelming. You have probably thought about it for a while, hoping things would get better on their own. Reaching out is the first step in your healing, and I am here to help. I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, families, and couples of all ages. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have the training to meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of therapy approaches depending on what feels most comfortable for you. Together, we can figure out the best way for you to heal and move forward.
I understand that reaching out for help can seem overwhelming. You have probably thought about it for a while, hoping things would get better on their own. Reaching out is the first step in your healing, and I am here to help. I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, families, and couples of all ages. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have the training to meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of therapy approaches depending on what feels most comfortable for you. Together, we can figure out the best way for you to heal and move forward.
(941) 219-0401 View (941) 219-0401
Photo of Farkhanda (Farah) Khan - https://sessions.psychologytoday.com/mrs-farkhanda, MEd, LMHC, ART, CPP, CAMS, Counselor
https://sessions.psychologytoday.com/mrs-farkhanda
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, ART, CPP, CAMS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
I am a trained ART Therapist. Accelerated Resolution Therapy is a form of psychotherapy with roots in existing evidence-based therapies. Which has shown to achieve benefits much more rapidly usually within few sessions? Clients with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, (PTSD) substance abuse, sexual abuse and many other physical conditions. My ideal client is one who is striving to make a change. In order for this to occur, there must be cooperation and mutual respect between all parties. I will also work with those who are unable to express their feelings & thoughts and who have built these up due to the stigma regarding mental health.
I am a trained ART Therapist. Accelerated Resolution Therapy is a form of psychotherapy with roots in existing evidence-based therapies. Which has shown to achieve benefits much more rapidly usually within few sessions? Clients with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, (PTSD) substance abuse, sexual abuse and many other physical conditions. My ideal client is one who is striving to make a change. In order for this to occur, there must be cooperation and mutual respect between all parties. I will also work with those who are unable to express their feelings & thoughts and who have built these up due to the stigma regarding mental health.
(904) 513-2604 View (904) 513-2604
Photo of Peg Tipka, LPCC-S, ATR, Counselor
Peg Tipka
Counselor, LPCC-S, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
Grounded in the belief that experiences and events we have endured do not have to define the person we become. These experiences are part of our story but can only limit us if we allow. We'll explore your past experiences, patterns and processes to determine how it is effecting your current life, and co-create a path as you envision what is next .
Grounded in the belief that experiences and events we have endured do not have to define the person we become. These experiences are part of our story but can only limit us if we allow. We'll explore your past experiences, patterns and processes to determine how it is effecting your current life, and co-create a path as you envision what is next .
(330) 441-4771 View (330) 441-4771

See more therapy options for Ponte Vedra

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.