Photo of Elizabeth Carol Frantz, MA, LCPC, AAT, Counselor
Elizabeth Carol Frantz
Counselor, MA, LCPC, AAT
Verified Verified
Hickory Hills, IL 60457
Elizabeth is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with a Master’s in counseling from Saint Xavier University. Elizabeth received a certification in Animal Assisted Therapy from Oakland University and is also a registered handler through Pet Partners. Elizabeth has experience working with mild to severe mental illness, as well as children and adults with developmental disabilities in outpatient settings. Elizabeth has worked in Community Agencies as a Mental Health Counselor, providing individual, group, couples and family counseling. Elizabeth also has a background in animal training, enrichment and rescue.
Elizabeth is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with a Master’s in counseling from Saint Xavier University. Elizabeth received a certification in Animal Assisted Therapy from Oakland University and is also a registered handler through Pet Partners. Elizabeth has experience working with mild to severe mental illness, as well as children and adults with developmental disabilities in outpatient settings. Elizabeth has worked in Community Agencies as a Mental Health Counselor, providing individual, group, couples and family counseling. Elizabeth also has a background in animal training, enrichment and rescue.
(708) 942-8271 View (708) 942-8271

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stacey J. Feuer, PsyD, MLD, Psychologist
Stacey J. Feuer
Psychologist, PsyD, MLD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Park, IL 60130
Therapeutic services may include issues such as pain management, treatment adherence, sleep difficulties, general supportive therapy, and/or exploring the deeper meaning of how illness has affected one’s life.
Dr. Feuer is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the Director of Health Psychology at IPD/DMG. She completed the majority of her clinical training in medical hospitals and outpatient settings. She additionally works as an adjunct faculty member for the PsyD Clinical Psychology program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Feuer’s areas of expertise include adults (18+) living with chronic medical illnesses, and has particular experience with clients diagnosed with cancer, cardiovascular, and transplant-related diagnoses. She also has experience working with caregivers of individuals living with chronic illness.
Therapeutic services may include issues such as pain management, treatment adherence, sleep difficulties, general supportive therapy, and/or exploring the deeper meaning of how illness has affected one’s life.
Dr. Feuer is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the Director of Health Psychology at IPD/DMG. She completed the majority of her clinical training in medical hospitals and outpatient settings. She additionally works as an adjunct faculty member for the PsyD Clinical Psychology program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Feuer’s areas of expertise include adults (18+) living with chronic medical illnesses, and has particular experience with clients diagnosed with cancer, cardiovascular, and transplant-related diagnoses. She also has experience working with caregivers of individuals living with chronic illness.
(773) 295-0537 View (773) 295-0537
Photo of Carolyn Boyer, MS, LCPC, CCTP
Carolyn Boyer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
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 View (630) 473-9363
Photo of Nia J Butler, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nia J Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
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 Merrisa Dawn Santos, MA, LPC, NCC, CTMHP, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Merrisa Dawn Santos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CTMHP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60629  (Online Only)
Using a holistic approach focused on connecting the mind, body, and spirit, I will help you connect with your higher purpose and experience life free from emotional pain.
I sincerely believe that each of us is born into this world deserving of happiness, safety, and love. For some of us, the road to emotional wellness can be impacted by forces and experiences beyond our control. At times, we can lose sight of the beauty life has to offer us due to potential trauma, family history, or hardships we’ve experienced. My goal is to help you uncover, rediscover, and reclaim the joy and purpose in your life through compassionate, welcoming, and conversational counseling services.
Using a holistic approach focused on connecting the mind, body, and spirit, I will help you connect with your higher purpose and experience life free from emotional pain.
I sincerely believe that each of us is born into this world deserving of happiness, safety, and love. For some of us, the road to emotional wellness can be impacted by forces and experiences beyond our control. At times, we can lose sight of the beauty life has to offer us due to potential trauma, family history, or hardships we’ve experienced. My goal is to help you uncover, rediscover, and reclaim the joy and purpose in your life through compassionate, welcoming, and conversational counseling services.
(618) 836-4075 View (618) 836-4075
Photo of Denise Ann Jabaay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Ann Jabaay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palos Heights, IL 60463
My areas of expertise includes, but are not limited to, chronic Illness, grief and loss, anxiety/depression, general stress management and crises intervention.
Whether you are wanting to work through a crises or feeling overwhelmed and seeking clarity, finding a compassionate therapist that works along with you is key. My approach to therapy starts from a strengths-based approach integrating using proven strategies (CBT/ mindfulness techniques) tailored to my individual clients needs and goals. I have had the privilege working with people from diverse backgrounds and ages in the field of mental health.
My areas of expertise includes, but are not limited to, chronic Illness, grief and loss, anxiety/depression, general stress management and crises intervention.
Whether you are wanting to work through a crises or feeling overwhelmed and seeking clarity, finding a compassionate therapist that works along with you is key. My approach to therapy starts from a strengths-based approach integrating using proven strategies (CBT/ mindfulness techniques) tailored to my individual clients needs and goals. I have had the privilege working with people from diverse backgrounds and ages in the field of mental health.
(779) 243-5189 View (779) 243-5189
Photo of Maureen P Tamillow, LCPC, RDDP, PEL, Counselor
Maureen P Tamillow
Counselor, LCPC, RDDP, PEL
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
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 Margaret Zangrilli - Margaret Zangrilli - Certified EMDR Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Zangrilli - Certified EMDR Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60304  (Online Only)
Many people avoid seeking help for fear that they or their children will be labeled. My motto is: "Peel off the labels and see the person underneath." I believe you are a person with unique needs, strengths, and challenges, that there are complex reasons you are living the life you are living today - AND, you can improve. Emotional pain and problems are just as natural and normal as physical pain and problems. When we let go of the labels we have about ourselves, our problems, or therapy in general, we can begin healing the pain and resolving the problems.
Many people avoid seeking help for fear that they or their children will be labeled. My motto is: "Peel off the labels and see the person underneath." I believe you are a person with unique needs, strengths, and challenges, that there are complex reasons you are living the life you are living today - AND, you can improve. Emotional pain and problems are just as natural and normal as physical pain and problems. When we let go of the labels we have about ourselves, our problems, or therapy in general, we can begin healing the pain and resolving the problems.
(847) 807-1771 View (847) 807-1771
Photo of Samina Ahmed Jauregui, PsyD, Psychologist
Samina Ahmed Jauregui
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palos Hills, IL 60465  (Online Only)
Deciding to start therapy and finding a therapist is a difficult process and the current demand is only complicating matters. If you feel overwhelmed, low or unmotivated, and struggling to manage your worries than I may be able to help. Chronic illness management, sleep/insomnia, life transition, or major life stressors (e.g., navigating conflicting cultures) are common treatment concerns for my clients. If these concerns are keeping you stuck, isolated, or unsatisfied with life then it is time to make changes. Whether you know exactly what you want but unsure of how to achieve it or just contemplating change you can find support!
Deciding to start therapy and finding a therapist is a difficult process and the current demand is only complicating matters. If you feel overwhelmed, low or unmotivated, and struggling to manage your worries than I may be able to help. Chronic illness management, sleep/insomnia, life transition, or major life stressors (e.g., navigating conflicting cultures) are common treatment concerns for my clients. If these concerns are keeping you stuck, isolated, or unsatisfied with life then it is time to make changes. Whether you know exactly what you want but unsure of how to achieve it or just contemplating change you can find support!
(440) 553-8919 View (440) 553-8919
Photo of Sarah Ahmed, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Sarah Ahmed
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Being a culturally competent therapist is extremely important to me. As the daughter of immigrants, this experience has helped me to get in touch with my own beliefs and value systems. Therefore, I am able to help clients connect to their own values and take committed action steps in service of those values. I work primarily with adults and specialize in working with emerging adults who may be undergoing life transitions. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, severe or chronic mental illness and trauma.
Being a culturally competent therapist is extremely important to me. As the daughter of immigrants, this experience has helped me to get in touch with my own beliefs and value systems. Therefore, I am able to help clients connect to their own values and take committed action steps in service of those values. I work primarily with adults and specialize in working with emerging adults who may be undergoing life transitions. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, severe or chronic mental illness and trauma.
(708) 249-3255 View (708) 249-3255
Photo of Dr. Patty Johnson - Nia Integrative Healing, PsyD, Psychologist
Nia Integrative Healing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60304
We are wired with an affinity toward healing. Therapy is a powerful tool in attaining wellness. But what if we went beyond talk therapy by also integrating meditation and biofeedback to address trauma, depression, inattention and other areas of mental health? We will explore your intrinsic ability to harness the power of mindfulness and breath work to reduce chronic pain and other physical issues impacted by stress. We will tap into nutrition's significant role in mental health, including mood and memory. We are a team of psychological providers and a preventative care physician collaborating with you toward your healing journey.
We are wired with an affinity toward healing. Therapy is a powerful tool in attaining wellness. But what if we went beyond talk therapy by also integrating meditation and biofeedback to address trauma, depression, inattention and other areas of mental health? We will explore your intrinsic ability to harness the power of mindfulness and breath work to reduce chronic pain and other physical issues impacted by stress. We will tap into nutrition's significant role in mental health, including mood and memory. We are a team of psychological providers and a preventative care physician collaborating with you toward your healing journey.
(708) 628-5456 View (708) 628-5456
Photo of Sarah Seebold, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sarah Seebold
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60655
I have been able to work closely with children, adolescents, and adults to treat a wide variety of concerns ranging from mood and developmental disorders, chronic pain, substance abuse, trauma, hoarding, family stress, academic distress, and academic avoidance. I am dedicated to providing a safe environment for clients in the LGBTQIA+ community, those who hold multiple identities, and those who have a diverse cultural background. I strive to support others to examine how these identities may impact the way they interact with the world around them.
I have been able to work closely with children, adolescents, and adults to treat a wide variety of concerns ranging from mood and developmental disorders, chronic pain, substance abuse, trauma, hoarding, family stress, academic distress, and academic avoidance. I am dedicated to providing a safe environment for clients in the LGBTQIA+ community, those who hold multiple identities, and those who have a diverse cultural background. I strive to support others to examine how these identities may impact the way they interact with the world around them.
(708) 726-5534 View (708) 726-5534
Photo of Alejandro Garrido, PhD, Psychologist
Alejandro Garrido
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cicero, IL 60804  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, I have spent numerous years working with individuals, couples and families ranging from adolescence through adulthood, with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, stress management, PTSD, ADHD, adjustment to life changes and/or medical treatments, grief and loss issues; parenting concerns; couple issues; or problems coping with daily stress. If you have some of these concerns, you can experience emotional, mental and relational healing. I employ a collaborative, supportive and confidential approach to work together on your therapy goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, I have spent numerous years working with individuals, couples and families ranging from adolescence through adulthood, with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, stress management, PTSD, ADHD, adjustment to life changes and/or medical treatments, grief and loss issues; parenting concerns; couple issues; or problems coping with daily stress. If you have some of these concerns, you can experience emotional, mental and relational healing. I employ a collaborative, supportive and confidential approach to work together on your therapy goals.
(773) 570-1271 View (773) 570-1271
Photo of Shannon M Mannix - Shannon Mannix Services Inc, MSW, LCSW, type 73, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Mannix Services Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, type 73
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
I specialize in working with young kids, teens, and adults struggling with a variety of issues; Depression, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, behavioral issues, sleeping difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Chronic pain, Medical issues, Grief/Loss.
Ms. Mannix's clinical practice focuses on providing cognitive behavioral therapy to children, adolescents & adults. Ms. Mannix also provides family therapy to clients of all ages. She has worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults who have Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Problems & ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Autism, Divorce, Grief and loss, family conflicts, learning difficulties, school concerns. Ms. Mannix focuses on post traumatic stress, relational/behavioral problems in children, school difficulties, adolescences and adults as well. Ms. Mannix is also a strong advocate for persons with disabilities.
I specialize in working with young kids, teens, and adults struggling with a variety of issues; Depression, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, behavioral issues, sleeping difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Chronic pain, Medical issues, Grief/Loss.
Ms. Mannix's clinical practice focuses on providing cognitive behavioral therapy to children, adolescents & adults. Ms. Mannix also provides family therapy to clients of all ages. She has worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults who have Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Problems & ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Autism, Divorce, Grief and loss, family conflicts, learning difficulties, school concerns. Ms. Mannix focuses on post traumatic stress, relational/behavioral problems in children, school difficulties, adolescences and adults as well. Ms. Mannix is also a strong advocate for persons with disabilities.
(708) 315-6302 View (708) 315-6302
Bradford Czochara
Psychologist, PsyD, ABN, LPC, CGP
Verified Verified
Homer Glen, IL 60491
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 Neli Cohen - Nelmar Health Centers, BS, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Nelmar Health Centers
Psychologist, BS, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
The current healthcare industry has failed many people living with chronic physical and mental health diseases. People are faced with a large push for psychiatric medication, misdiagnosis, and ​a one-dimensional approach to treatment. ​It is time for a more holistic, whole-body solution to people’s health. This is the pledge that Nelmar Health Centers have made. No matter what you are struggling with, Nelmar Health Centers can help you live a happier and healthier life. We offer comprehensive diagnostic measures, counseling, Neurotherapy, cognitive rehabilitation, dietary and herb management, yoga, and meditation under one roof.
The current healthcare industry has failed many people living with chronic physical and mental health diseases. People are faced with a large push for psychiatric medication, misdiagnosis, and ​a one-dimensional approach to treatment. ​It is time for a more holistic, whole-body solution to people’s health. This is the pledge that Nelmar Health Centers have made. No matter what you are struggling with, Nelmar Health Centers can help you live a happier and healthier life. We offer comprehensive diagnostic measures, counseling, Neurotherapy, cognitive rehabilitation, dietary and herb management, yoga, and meditation under one roof.
(630) 793-6483 View (630) 793-6483
Photo of Kimberly Spivey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Spivey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Blue Island, IL 60406  (Online Only)
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you facing challenges and don't know where to turn? Are you experiencing depressed feelings and or chronic illnesses. I am here to help you move forward. I provide caring and compassionate virtual therapy services. Sleepless nights and difficulty with decision-making can also be addressed to help improve your overall functioning.
Are you ready to make a change in your life? Are you facing challenges and don't know where to turn? Are you experiencing depressed feelings and or chronic illnesses. I am here to help you move forward. I provide caring and compassionate virtual therapy services. Sleepless nights and difficulty with decision-making can also be addressed to help improve your overall functioning.
(217) 858-4756 View (217) 858-4756
Photo of Ethan Israelsohn, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ethan Israelsohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Forest Park, IL 60130  (Online Only)
Is it difficult for you to achieve your goals because of depression, anxiety, panic, or fears? For over 25 years I have provided a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where results can be obtained quickly. Do you experience the overwhelming impact of chronic disease on you and your family? Do you or a loved one have physical or medical problems that just seem too stressful or confusing to manage? Many people seek my help with asthma, emphysema, diabetes, heart, and other chronic diseases and achieve better treatment results and a higher level of control in their lives.
Is it difficult for you to achieve your goals because of depression, anxiety, panic, or fears? For over 25 years I have provided a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where results can be obtained quickly. Do you experience the overwhelming impact of chronic disease on you and your family? Do you or a loved one have physical or medical problems that just seem too stressful or confusing to manage? Many people seek my help with asthma, emphysema, diabetes, heart, and other chronic diseases and achieve better treatment results and a higher level of control in their lives.
(708) 848-0112 View (708) 848-0112
Photo of Loree Kinsella, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Loree Kinsella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evergreen Park, IL 60805
Hi! My name is Loree Kinsella, and I am a Licensed Social Worker at the Center for Self Actualization. Whatever brings you to seek therapy, I look forward to working together with you so you can become the best version of yourself. The times we live in are very challenging, and with that you may have seen yourself struggling in your own life and in your relationships. Whatever you want to talk about or work though, I’m here to walk alongside you and help you see your potential to overcome the obstacles in your life.
Hi! My name is Loree Kinsella, and I am a Licensed Social Worker at the Center for Self Actualization. Whatever brings you to seek therapy, I look forward to working together with you so you can become the best version of yourself. The times we live in are very challenging, and with that you may have seen yourself struggling in your own life and in your relationships. Whatever you want to talk about or work though, I’m here to walk alongside you and help you see your potential to overcome the obstacles in your life.
(773) 900-5754 View (773) 900-5754
Photo of Danielle Valentino, MA, LCPC, CADC
Danielle Valentino
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Oak Forest, IL 60452
We all have the capacity within us to effect positive change in our lives, but sometimes we get “stuck” in vicious cycles. In these times we may need additional guidance and support in order to get through some of the things life has thrown our way. If you are here, it means you are at least considering making those changes. I utilize an integrative, harm-reduction approach which draws on the unique strengths of each individual as the key to narrating their own healing process. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients, but specialize in adult and young adult populations.
We all have the capacity within us to effect positive change in our lives, but sometimes we get “stuck” in vicious cycles. In these times we may need additional guidance and support in order to get through some of the things life has thrown our way. If you are here, it means you are at least considering making those changes. I utilize an integrative, harm-reduction approach which draws on the unique strengths of each individual as the key to narrating their own healing process. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients, but specialize in adult and young adult populations.
(708) 722-7926 View (708) 722-7926
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.