Chronic Pain Therapists in Downers Grove, IL

Photo of Carolyn Boyer, MS, LCPC, CCTP
Carolyn Boyer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
My areas of expertise include the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life-stressors, ADHD, and chronic pain.
Counseling is a collaborative process in which you should feel supported in navigating life's roadblocks, stressors, and transitions. The counseling relationship is a unique experience that propels individual flourishing by providing a safe and nurturing environment in which you can develop and practice skills to cultivate resiliency and personal growth. I believe in strength-based counseling, in which individual strengths and resources are developed and utilized to facilitate well-being and client collaboration to promote and achieve personal goals. The framework I utilize favors a cognitive approach with behavioral, mindfulness, and psychodynamic interventions to address specific areas of distress.
My areas of expertise include the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life-stressors, ADHD, and chronic pain.
Counseling is a collaborative process in which you should feel supported in navigating life's roadblocks, stressors, and transitions. The counseling relationship is a unique experience that propels individual flourishing by providing a safe and nurturing environment in which you can develop and practice skills to cultivate resiliency and personal growth. I believe in strength-based counseling, in which individual strengths and resources are developed and utilized to facilitate well-being and client collaboration to promote and achieve personal goals. The framework I utilize favors a cognitive approach with behavioral, mindfulness, and psychodynamic interventions to address specific areas of distress.
(630) 473-9363 x5 View (630) 473-9363 x5
Photo of Dr. Valerie Maty, LCPC, RPT, ATR-BC, SEP, CADC
Dr. Valerie Maty
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RPT, ATR-BC, SEP, CADC
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515  (Online Only)
If you are a Child, Adolescent, Adult or Parent experiencing a current life challenge, or a chronic medical illness or trauma- HOPE is possible!.
Are you an adult who is trying to manage a traumatic experience, process grief or anxiety/depression at this time in your life? Are you a parent that is looking for an experienced clinician to support you and your child to navigate overwhelming emotions both at home and in school? I am here for you! I am passionate about journeying alongside you with compassion, creating a safe place where you can discover your creative self, and focused upon supporting you as you work towards your unique treatment goals.
If you are a Child, Adolescent, Adult or Parent experiencing a current life challenge, or a chronic medical illness or trauma- HOPE is possible!.
Are you an adult who is trying to manage a traumatic experience, process grief or anxiety/depression at this time in your life? Are you a parent that is looking for an experienced clinician to support you and your child to navigate overwhelming emotions both at home and in school? I am here for you! I am passionate about journeying alongside you with compassion, creating a safe place where you can discover your creative self, and focused upon supporting you as you work towards your unique treatment goals.
(331) 244-4868 View (331) 244-4868
Photo of Stacey A Sanicki, MS, LCPC, E-RYT, NBCC
Stacey A Sanicki
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, E-RYT, NBCC
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Yoga therapy is the perfect complimentary therapy and is among the most effective way to prevent and alleviate the symptoms of illness on the physical and mental levels as well as well as the emotional layers in our lives.
Quiet mind open heart, somewhere deep within you, you know you must reconnect with yourself.Integral therapy is a blend of psychotherapy and yoga therapy. Together this combination of therapies refines the mind, clears negative emotions and thoughts, and create a better relationships.Stacey will support the process of therapy through talk, breathing techniques, simple movements and meditation. In this process you can find your center again, and most of all show up as your true self.
Yoga therapy is the perfect complimentary therapy and is among the most effective way to prevent and alleviate the symptoms of illness on the physical and mental levels as well as well as the emotional layers in our lives.
Quiet mind open heart, somewhere deep within you, you know you must reconnect with yourself.Integral therapy is a blend of psychotherapy and yoga therapy. Together this combination of therapies refines the mind, clears negative emotions and thoughts, and create a better relationships.Stacey will support the process of therapy through talk, breathing techniques, simple movements and meditation. In this process you can find your center again, and most of all show up as your true self.
(630) 448-4082 View (630) 448-4082
Photo of Nia J Butler, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nia J Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Everyone could use more support these days, if you're ready to make the decision to start therapy then I am here to help. As a licensed clinical social worker, it's my passion to help you facilitate growth, healing and progress. I specialize in anxiety, depression, loss and grief, life transitions, relationship issues and chronic illness.
Everyone could use more support these days, if you're ready to make the decision to start therapy then I am here to help. As a licensed clinical social worker, it's my passion to help you facilitate growth, healing and progress. I specialize in anxiety, depression, loss and grief, life transitions, relationship issues and chronic illness.
(630) 426-3283 View (630) 426-3283
Photo of Andrew Schnell - LifeMindful Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
LifeMindful Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
This includes community mental health, residential facilities, foster care, county mental health, juvenile hall, schools, substance abuse and chemical dependency, adults with severe and persistent mental illness, and crisis intervention.
As human beings we learn, develop meaning, and create a sense of purpose through each other and the relationships we form. In the same spirit I believe the therapeutic process is driven by the relationship formed between the client and the therapist. This is why my approach in therapy is guided by the question - "How can I provide a relationship which this person may use for their personal growth?" I strive to create an empathic, nonjudgmental atmosphere where you feel safe and empowered to work toward personal growth and creating lasting change; forming trust and leaning toward vulnerability.
This includes community mental health, residential facilities, foster care, county mental health, juvenile hall, schools, substance abuse and chemical dependency, adults with severe and persistent mental illness, and crisis intervention.
As human beings we learn, develop meaning, and create a sense of purpose through each other and the relationships we form. In the same spirit I believe the therapeutic process is driven by the relationship formed between the client and the therapist. This is why my approach in therapy is guided by the question - "How can I provide a relationship which this person may use for their personal growth?" I strive to create an empathic, nonjudgmental atmosphere where you feel safe and empowered to work toward personal growth and creating lasting change; forming trust and leaning toward vulnerability.
(630) 412-7825 View (630) 412-7825
Photo of Samantha Tankenoff, MS, ALMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha Tankenoff
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Hi! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in working with those navigating depression, anxiety, transitions, grief, caregiver burnout, and relational difficulties. I have a special interest in working with those struggling with chronic and terminal illnesses. I consider it an honor to support my clients through the nuances of day-to-day life while they shoulder the added challenges illness poses to them and their loved ones. I employ a collaborative, strength-based and empathetic approach.
Hi! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in working with those navigating depression, anxiety, transitions, grief, caregiver burnout, and relational difficulties. I have a special interest in working with those struggling with chronic and terminal illnesses. I consider it an honor to support my clients through the nuances of day-to-day life while they shoulder the added challenges illness poses to them and their loved ones. I employ a collaborative, strength-based and empathetic approach.
(847) 307-7783 View (847) 307-7783
Photo of Dawn Kroencke, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Dawn Kroencke
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
If you have been newly diagnosed with an illness (cancer, diabetes, heart disease, etc.), or if your illness has worsened or changed, you may feel confused and overwhelmed. You may find yourself struggling with sadness, grief, worry, and even irritability. I can help you navigate this landscape. I have specialized in working with people with complicated medical histories and treating co-occurring symptoms like anxiety, depression, grief/loss, sleeping and eating problems, relationship difficulties, and care-giving issues since the beginning of my career. I am also well-versed working with couple relationship problems and life transitions.
If you have been newly diagnosed with an illness (cancer, diabetes, heart disease, etc.), or if your illness has worsened or changed, you may feel confused and overwhelmed. You may find yourself struggling with sadness, grief, worry, and even irritability. I can help you navigate this landscape. I have specialized in working with people with complicated medical histories and treating co-occurring symptoms like anxiety, depression, grief/loss, sleeping and eating problems, relationship difficulties, and care-giving issues since the beginning of my career. I am also well-versed working with couple relationship problems and life transitions.
(630) 360-8489 View (630) 360-8489
Photo of Maureen P Tamillow, LCPC, RDDP, PEL, Counselor
Maureen P Tamillow
Counselor, LCPC, RDDP, PEL
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Waitlist for new clients
I work with all aged clients. I have long -term school experience: teacher, counselor, administrator. I enjoy all ages.Many people enjoy my mix of therapeutic and personal coaching styles. During the years, I have advanced my training into divorce mediation and custody mediation. I have also expanded my clientelle to include people who have long-term illness with pain. I work with health issues to help people learn to better adapt to their condition while also finding and concentrating on creating healthy lifestyle choices and personal calmness. I consider my background in addiction as a pathway to help people achieve wellness.
I work with all aged clients. I have long -term school experience: teacher, counselor, administrator. I enjoy all ages.Many people enjoy my mix of therapeutic and personal coaching styles. During the years, I have advanced my training into divorce mediation and custody mediation. I have also expanded my clientelle to include people who have long-term illness with pain. I work with health issues to help people learn to better adapt to their condition while also finding and concentrating on creating healthy lifestyle choices and personal calmness. I consider my background in addiction as a pathway to help people achieve wellness.
(708) 274-7892 View (708) 274-7892
Photo of Valerie A Jencks, MS, LMFT, LCPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valerie A Jencks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
With over 30 years of clinical experience, Valerie takes a collaborative and direct approach to effectively create a safe space for families who face issues associated with chronic illness, divorce, eating disorders and addiction recovery. Some situations are best handled with traditional “talk” therapies, while other concerns may need more active interventions to modify an unproductive behavior pattern or lifestyle.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, Valerie takes a collaborative and direct approach to effectively create a safe space for families who face issues associated with chronic illness, divorce, eating disorders and addiction recovery. Some situations are best handled with traditional “talk” therapies, while other concerns may need more active interventions to modify an unproductive behavior pattern or lifestyle.
(630) 946-6715 View (630) 946-6715
Photo of Joe Glim - Labyrinth Counseling and Consulting, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Labyrinth Counseling and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Physical symptoms ( Chronic pain, tension, fatigue, sleep issues etc.
I specialize in treating Trauma (single event, long-term and attachment) with experiential therapies, including EMDR & Somatic Experiencing. These interventions recognize the need to go beyond changing your thoughts and focus on helping people regulate the body sensations and emotions that continue to be experienced. For example: a person may know that a traumatic event is over and yet continue to feel the emotion of anxiety and the body sensation of muscle tension (never truly relaxing or feeling safe). This can activate an impulse to run away from situations, become angry/defensive or shut down (depressed/ avoidant/dissociative)
Physical symptoms ( Chronic pain, tension, fatigue, sleep issues etc.
I specialize in treating Trauma (single event, long-term and attachment) with experiential therapies, including EMDR & Somatic Experiencing. These interventions recognize the need to go beyond changing your thoughts and focus on helping people regulate the body sensations and emotions that continue to be experienced. For example: a person may know that a traumatic event is over and yet continue to feel the emotion of anxiety and the body sensation of muscle tension (never truly relaxing or feeling safe). This can activate an impulse to run away from situations, become angry/defensive or shut down (depressed/ avoidant/dissociative)
(630) 504-0254 View (630) 504-0254
Photo of Laura J Wolfe, MSEd, LCPC, Counselor
Laura J Wolfe
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60516
An Invitation to come as you are...Sometimes it's easy to forget or move away from who you are and your story. There are many life circumstances that may impact and influence how you feel about and perceive yourself as well as others. Shame, guilt, fear, anxiety, anger, disappointment, sadness, illness, grief, loss and broken relationships are a part of many peoples' life stories yet sometimes it can be difficult to accept those parts of one's journey. I invite you to come with all the pieces of who you are and share your story.
An Invitation to come as you are...Sometimes it's easy to forget or move away from who you are and your story. There are many life circumstances that may impact and influence how you feel about and perceive yourself as well as others. Shame, guilt, fear, anxiety, anger, disappointment, sadness, illness, grief, loss and broken relationships are a part of many peoples' life stories yet sometimes it can be difficult to accept those parts of one's journey. I invite you to come with all the pieces of who you are and share your story.
(708) 462-4967 View (708) 462-4967
Photo of Jim Shalley - AFC Counselors, PsyD, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor
AFC Counselors
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60516
We offer many different areas of specialty, including depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, grief and loss, co-dependence, addictions, self harm, marriage/relationship issues, abuse, eating disorders, chronic pain, women's issues, men's issues, and issues of faith and spirituality.
AFC Counselors are passionate about providing an environment of safety and integrity for you (children, adolescents, adults, individuals, couples, and families) to find and sustain your path to emotional health and well-being. We understand that seeking help isn't always easy, so we make every effort to make you feel welcome as you take this important step for yourself or your loved one.
We offer many different areas of specialty, including depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, grief and loss, co-dependence, addictions, self harm, marriage/relationship issues, abuse, eating disorders, chronic pain, women's issues, men's issues, and issues of faith and spirituality.
AFC Counselors are passionate about providing an environment of safety and integrity for you (children, adolescents, adults, individuals, couples, and families) to find and sustain your path to emotional health and well-being. We understand that seeking help isn't always easy, so we make every effort to make you feel welcome as you take this important step for yourself or your loved one.
(630) 733-1495 View (630) 733-1495
Photo of Dimitria Vandarakis, MS, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dimitria Vandarakis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I have worked with individuals and families in the areas of anger management, anxiety, behavioral issues, career counseling, depression, grief, pain management, problem solving skills, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, stress management and more.
People are compassionate beings and I treat each with care, support and respect. Over the years, I have learned to treat the whole mind and whole body. I have learned you can not treat one without the other. Understanding the interconnectedness of the mind and body has been my life's passion. In the 24 years of providing clinical treatment, I take a multidisciplinary approach to therapy. I use an innovative array of therapies and techniques depending on your situation and way of learning. I believe every one experiences life differently and every one is a teacher to each other.
I have worked with individuals and families in the areas of anger management, anxiety, behavioral issues, career counseling, depression, grief, pain management, problem solving skills, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, stress management and more.
People are compassionate beings and I treat each with care, support and respect. Over the years, I have learned to treat the whole mind and whole body. I have learned you can not treat one without the other. Understanding the interconnectedness of the mind and body has been my life's passion. In the 24 years of providing clinical treatment, I take a multidisciplinary approach to therapy. I use an innovative array of therapies and techniques depending on your situation and way of learning. I believe every one experiences life differently and every one is a teacher to each other.
(630) 503-6686 View (630) 503-6686
Photo of Dr. Patricia A Pimental : Neuropsychologist, PsyD , ABN, FACPN, Psychologist
Dr. Patricia A Pimental : Neuropsychologist
Psychologist, PsyD , ABN, FACPN
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Neurobehavioral Medicine Consultants, Ltd. and Dr. Pimental wish you a warm welcome to this unique lifespan practice (ages 3-90) offering advanced services in neuropsychological testing and lifelong brain health. We offer therapy in the areas of clinical, health and medical psychology, pain management, rehabilitation psychology, neurocognitive rehabilitation, sports neuropsychology, and integrated mind-body, nutritional, exercise, spiritual and brain health programs (Brainsmart sm) for individuals and families. Public speaking for wellness programs in health, business, nursing facilities, and private groups is also available.
Neurobehavioral Medicine Consultants, Ltd. and Dr. Pimental wish you a warm welcome to this unique lifespan practice (ages 3-90) offering advanced services in neuropsychological testing and lifelong brain health. We offer therapy in the areas of clinical, health and medical psychology, pain management, rehabilitation psychology, neurocognitive rehabilitation, sports neuropsychology, and integrated mind-body, nutritional, exercise, spiritual and brain health programs (Brainsmart sm) for individuals and families. Public speaking for wellness programs in health, business, nursing facilities, and private groups is also available.
(630) 491-8363 View (630) 491-8363
Bradford Czochara
Psychologist, PsyD, ABN, LPC, CGP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in testing, Tavistock groups, grief groups, social skills groups, support groups, and chronic medical illness/ chronic pain groups.
I take a holistic approach to clients. I work with clients using an integrated approach focusing on symptom management and working towards goals to help clients reach their full potential. I provide neuropsychological assessment and provide neuropsychological services when needed. Please contact me by email for more information regarding my approach to clients and how I can help you.
I specialize in testing, Tavistock groups, grief groups, social skills groups, support groups, and chronic medical illness/ chronic pain groups.
I take a holistic approach to clients. I work with clients using an integrated approach focusing on symptom management and working towards goals to help clients reach their full potential. I provide neuropsychological assessment and provide neuropsychological services when needed. Please contact me by email for more information regarding my approach to clients and how I can help you.
(815) 261-4035 View (815) 261-4035
Photo of Katie Berry, LCPC, Counselor
Katie Berry
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is compassionate, validating, and empathic. I believe that everyone wants to feel heard, understood, valued, and validated and I work with you to gain an understanding of who you are and what you want. I believe therapy is a very personal journey and I strive to ensure every client feels incredible support. I believe that therapy is a healing process. We find the parts of ourselves that need healing to lead us to a better quality of life. I work with all races, sexual orientations, and genders. A favorite quote that I relate to therapy is, "Be messy and complicated and afraid and show up anyway."
My therapeutic approach is compassionate, validating, and empathic. I believe that everyone wants to feel heard, understood, valued, and validated and I work with you to gain an understanding of who you are and what you want. I believe therapy is a very personal journey and I strive to ensure every client feels incredible support. I believe that therapy is a healing process. We find the parts of ourselves that need healing to lead us to a better quality of life. I work with all races, sexual orientations, and genders. A favorite quote that I relate to therapy is, "Be messy and complicated and afraid and show up anyway."
(708) 572-3466 View (708) 572-3466
Photo of Counseling Inc. Quantum - Quantum Counseling Inc., LCPC, LCSW, CADC, Counselor
Quantum Counseling Inc.
Counselor, LCPC, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60516
Quantum Counseling is a group of therapists dedicated to providing the highest quality expert treatment with an individualized approach. We use a combination of theories to help clients manage their emotions and identify what their values are. Then working together we develop treatment goals and skills to build on individual strengths and improve their lives. We provide treatment that is supported by research and is effective and individualized to each client's specific needs and circumstances. We strive to provide an atmosphere that is respectful and supportive setting clients on the path to achieving the life they desire
Quantum Counseling is a group of therapists dedicated to providing the highest quality expert treatment with an individualized approach. We use a combination of theories to help clients manage their emotions and identify what their values are. Then working together we develop treatment goals and skills to build on individual strengths and improve their lives. We provide treatment that is supported by research and is effective and individualized to each client's specific needs and circumstances. We strive to provide an atmosphere that is respectful and supportive setting clients on the path to achieving the life they desire
(331) 314-8253 View (331) 314-8253
Photo of Nancy Leon, LSW, MSW, CAIP, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Leon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW, CAIP, CGP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Mi objetivo es ayudar a cada cliente a fomentar las habilidades de afrontamiento necesarias para ayudarle en su desafíos actuales. He recibido capacitación adicional en intervención en crisis, agresión sexual y soy una profesional certificada informada sobre la ansiedad. También tengo experiencia trabajando con niños neurodivergentes, depresión, ansiedad, ideación suicida, trastornos de adaptación y trastorno de estrés postraumático.
Mi objetivo es ayudar a cada cliente a fomentar las habilidades de afrontamiento necesarias para ayudarle en su desafíos actuales. He recibido capacitación adicional en intervención en crisis, agresión sexual y soy una profesional certificada informada sobre la ansiedad. También tengo experiencia trabajando con niños neurodivergentes, depresión, ansiedad, ideación suicida, trastornos de adaptación y trastorno de estrés postraumático.
(630) 576-9164 View (630) 576-9164
Photo of Kanisha M Rodriguez, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kanisha M Rodriguez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
My goal as a clinician is to provide a safe space for clients. Where clients can challenge themselves to new experiences, perspectives, and ideas to grow in a safe environment. To understand that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes and it is all about how we recover from those setbacks in life.
My goal as a clinician is to provide a safe space for clients. Where clients can challenge themselves to new experiences, perspectives, and ideas to grow in a safe environment. To understand that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes and it is all about how we recover from those setbacks in life.
(630) 345-8365 View (630) 345-8365
Photo of Emily Weber - Ellie Mental Health- Chicagoland , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellie Mental Health- Chicagoland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Why Seek Treatment? Because You Deserve to Thrive! Life can be tough—whether you're facing anxiety, depression, major life changes, or just feeling stuck, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Seeking help is a courageous step toward reclaiming your life. At Ellie Mental Health, we understand your struggles and are here to support you every step of the way. Our diverse team includes BIPOC-identified, LGBTQ+ , bilingual Spanish-speaking therapists, male therapists, and more, all committed to providing inclusive, empathetic care. You deserve to thrive, and we're here to help you!
Why Seek Treatment? Because You Deserve to Thrive! Life can be tough—whether you're facing anxiety, depression, major life changes, or just feeling stuck, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Seeking help is a courageous step toward reclaiming your life. At Ellie Mental Health, we understand your struggles and are here to support you every step of the way. Our diverse team includes BIPOC-identified, LGBTQ+ , bilingual Spanish-speaking therapists, male therapists, and more, all committed to providing inclusive, empathetic care. You deserve to thrive, and we're here to help you!
(630) 528-0691 View (630) 528-0691
1

See more therapy options for Downers Grove

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.