Chronic Pain Therapists in Willowbrook, IL

Photo of Anne McCarthy Conidi, MA, LCPC
Anne McCarthy Conidi
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Willowbrook, IL 60527  (Online Only)
Chronic pain is another area I work in.
I work with clients who have anxiety, depression and self esteem issues. What we tell ourselves and what our parents have told us can define how we feel about ourselves. The message is often we are "not good enough". I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients to get rid of the habits and thoughts that may keep them anxious and stressed. A big part of my work is teaching people to negotiate and effectively talk with families and friends, and to be heard and understood without causing any drama. I have trained people in assertiveness and taught parenting classes.
Chronic pain is another area I work in.
I work with clients who have anxiety, depression and self esteem issues. What we tell ourselves and what our parents have told us can define how we feel about ourselves. The message is often we are "not good enough". I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients to get rid of the habits and thoughts that may keep them anxious and stressed. A big part of my work is teaching people to negotiate and effectively talk with families and friends, and to be heard and understood without causing any drama. I have trained people in assertiveness and taught parenting classes.
(708) 571-0842 View (708) 571-0842
Photo of Sandra Armendariz, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra Armendariz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Willowbrook, IL 60527
Sandra Armendariz, LPC, is an empathic and compassionate therapist who offers each client guidance, support, and knowledge as they discover their inner wisdom and resilience. Sandra earned a graduate degree in clinical mental health from Adler University and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Central University of Ecuador. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Sandra worked around the world as a therapist and graduate level teacher. She helps teens and adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship conflicts, domestic abuse, and more.
Sandra Armendariz, LPC, is an empathic and compassionate therapist who offers each client guidance, support, and knowledge as they discover their inner wisdom and resilience. Sandra earned a graduate degree in clinical mental health from Adler University and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Central University of Ecuador. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Sandra worked around the world as a therapist and graduate level teacher. She helps teens and adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship conflicts, domestic abuse, and more.
(708) 834-7832 View (708) 834-7832
Photo of Krista Sherinian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krista Sherinian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willowbrook, IL 60527
Krista Sherinian, LCSW, has over 27 years of experience helping clients age 5 and up. She often works collaboratively in cases of divorce and with stepfamilies. She got Spanish fluency from a language school in Guanajuato, Mexico. Adult clients have described her work with her as, "practical and life-changing." She addresses mind-body wellness by including in treatment lifestyle tips, relaxation training, guided imagery, and Emotional Freedom Techniques. Her approach to couples or family therapy blends strengths with personality type to learn better communication and ways to grow in partnership.
Krista Sherinian, LCSW, has over 27 years of experience helping clients age 5 and up. She often works collaboratively in cases of divorce and with stepfamilies. She got Spanish fluency from a language school in Guanajuato, Mexico. Adult clients have described her work with her as, "practical and life-changing." She addresses mind-body wellness by including in treatment lifestyle tips, relaxation training, guided imagery, and Emotional Freedom Techniques. Her approach to couples or family therapy blends strengths with personality type to learn better communication and ways to grow in partnership.
(630) 547-3362 View (630) 547-3362
Photo of Alicia Cummins, MSW,  LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Cummins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Willowbrook, IL 60527
Alicia Cummins, LSW, offers compassionate and clientcentered care to individuals, couples, and families in Illinois. With a strong commitment to creating a genuine and rapportdriven therapeutic environment, Alicia helps clients openly express themselves and feel in control of their healing journey. Specializing in evidencebased treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing, Alicia empowers clients to navigate life's challenges with resilience and clarity.
Alicia Cummins, LSW, offers compassionate and clientcentered care to individuals, couples, and families in Illinois. With a strong commitment to creating a genuine and rapportdriven therapeutic environment, Alicia helps clients openly express themselves and feel in control of their healing journey. Specializing in evidencebased treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing, Alicia empowers clients to navigate life's challenges with resilience and clarity.
(855) 641-1658 View (855) 641-1658
Photo of Kristin Marshall, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Willowbrook, IL 60527
Each of us is a story, waiting for a devoted reader who will take us off the shelf and embrace all our plot twists. I believe each client is the expert in their own story and I strive to provide a warm and non-judgmental space to allow them to feel safe to explore those chapters as they are ready. I work collaboratively with each client on identifying realistic and attainable goals to their treatment that they can implement into their daily life to allow healing, growth and taking back control. I employ a holistic approach to mental health to allow clients to see themselves as a whole person and not just their diagnosis.
Each of us is a story, waiting for a devoted reader who will take us off the shelf and embrace all our plot twists. I believe each client is the expert in their own story and I strive to provide a warm and non-judgmental space to allow them to feel safe to explore those chapters as they are ready. I work collaboratively with each client on identifying realistic and attainable goals to their treatment that they can implement into their daily life to allow healing, growth and taking back control. I employ a holistic approach to mental health to allow clients to see themselves as a whole person and not just their diagnosis.
(630) 812-0940 View (630) 812-0940
Photo of William McNichols, LCPC
William McNichols
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Willowbrook, IL 60527
My therapy style is distinguished by an underlying; Adlerian Individual Psychology, Rational Emotive Behavior, and Reality Therapeutic diagnostic approach toward the clients/patient's struggles addressed in session utilizing current best practice treatments associated with anxiety and depression found in DBT and Motivational Interviewing. I attempt to identify the patient's/client's mental disorder utilizing the DSM 5 and current best practice psychotherapy recommended by the ASA and psychotherapeutic model best suited to help the patient/client reach their goals as articulated by them in treatment.
My therapy style is distinguished by an underlying; Adlerian Individual Psychology, Rational Emotive Behavior, and Reality Therapeutic diagnostic approach toward the clients/patient's struggles addressed in session utilizing current best practice treatments associated with anxiety and depression found in DBT and Motivational Interviewing. I attempt to identify the patient's/client's mental disorder utilizing the DSM 5 and current best practice psychotherapy recommended by the ASA and psychotherapeutic model best suited to help the patient/client reach their goals as articulated by them in treatment.
(630) 412-7679 View (630) 412-7679
Photo of Cesar Rocha, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cesar Rocha
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Willowbrook, IL 60527
I completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, Media and Theatre and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My formal training in the counseling field ranges from working with children with trauma, adults with depression and anxiety, couples therapy, substance abuse counseling, and wellness groups. I have worked with clients who want to change and with mandated clients. I have helped clients set and accomplish their goals. I consider myself to be an eclectic counselor. I use different therapeutic approaches depending on the need of the client.
I completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, Media and Theatre and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My formal training in the counseling field ranges from working with children with trauma, adults with depression and anxiety, couples therapy, substance abuse counseling, and wellness groups. I have worked with clients who want to change and with mandated clients. I have helped clients set and accomplish their goals. I consider myself to be an eclectic counselor. I use different therapeutic approaches depending on the need of the client.
(630) 454-9036 View (630) 454-9036
Photo of Jennifer M Cross, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer M Cross
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Willowbrook, IL 60527
Do you want to feel vibrant and alive but feel off track and stuck? Do you feel that anxiety and depression control your life? Maybe you struggle to communicate with your friends or family members. Do you struggle with having low self-esteem and confidence? Perhaps you feel stuck with your current job and do not know how to move forward. What would it mean to you to finally be happy with your life and in your relationships? Jennifer M. Cross, MS, LPC believes that all people hold the keys to creating a life that they love.
Do you want to feel vibrant and alive but feel off track and stuck? Do you feel that anxiety and depression control your life? Maybe you struggle to communicate with your friends or family members. Do you struggle with having low self-esteem and confidence? Perhaps you feel stuck with your current job and do not know how to move forward. What would it mean to you to finally be happy with your life and in your relationships? Jennifer M. Cross, MS, LPC believes that all people hold the keys to creating a life that they love.
(630) 634-7812 View (630) 634-7812
Photo of Laura Rae Venditti, LCPC, Counselor
Laura Rae Venditti
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Willowbrook, IL 60527
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois, and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida and Indiana. I obtained my B.A., with a concentration in psychology, from Saint Xavier University, in Chicago, where I also minored in Pastoral Ministry. I obtained my M.A. in Gerontological Counseling from Adler University, in Chicago. I have served clients from 5 (yrs.) through 90 (yrs.) in academic, clinical, and nursing home settings. I approach therapy within a client-centered climate, using the tenets of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), through a solution-focused lens.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois, and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida and Indiana. I obtained my B.A., with a concentration in psychology, from Saint Xavier University, in Chicago, where I also minored in Pastoral Ministry. I obtained my M.A. in Gerontological Counseling from Adler University, in Chicago. I have served clients from 5 (yrs.) through 90 (yrs.) in academic, clinical, and nursing home settings. I approach therapy within a client-centered climate, using the tenets of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), through a solution-focused lens.
(630) 349-5008 View (630) 349-5008
Photo of Zaynah Farooq, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zaynah Farooq
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willowbrook, IL 60527  (Online Only)
As a second-generation woman of color, I have extensive experience working with clients from various diverse backgrounds. Some of my specialties include PTSD, complex/intergenerational trauma, religious trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, family/relationship conflicts, postpartum issues, self-esteem, stress, etc. Coming from a community health background, I invest in the needs of clients that come from traditionally underserved communities. I also have considerable experience and strengths in spiritually-integrated holistic psychotherapy, incorporating values one holds into their therapeutic needs and goals.
As a second-generation woman of color, I have extensive experience working with clients from various diverse backgrounds. Some of my specialties include PTSD, complex/intergenerational trauma, religious trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, family/relationship conflicts, postpartum issues, self-esteem, stress, etc. Coming from a community health background, I invest in the needs of clients that come from traditionally underserved communities. I also have considerable experience and strengths in spiritually-integrated holistic psychotherapy, incorporating values one holds into their therapeutic needs and goals.
(312) 624-6220 View (312) 624-6220

More Therapists Nearby

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 Dr. Patricia A Pimental : Neuropsychologist, PsyD , ABN, FACPN, Psychologist
Dr. Patricia A Pimental : Neuropsychologist
Psychologist, PsyD , ABN, FACPN
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60523
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
Photo of Laura Daniels, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Daniels
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Many times, the choices people make are in service of comfort, or to avoid pain.
I am passionate about helping people break free from the traps they create for themselves. I live for overcoming "weak, fragile, broken, victim" narratives. I love helping people rediscover their valued selves and lives. I am always mindful that one’s experiences are true and valid, and even unhealthy coping has gotten clients through painful moments. If your world has been shrinking and getting smaller and smaller, I can help. Let's get you feeling better. I will help you cultivate a road map that guides you towards your values, while also problem-solving barriers, symptoms, and challenges to help equip you for the journey.
Many times, the choices people make are in service of comfort, or to avoid pain.
I am passionate about helping people break free from the traps they create for themselves. I live for overcoming "weak, fragile, broken, victim" narratives. I love helping people rediscover their valued selves and lives. I am always mindful that one’s experiences are true and valid, and even unhealthy coping has gotten clients through painful moments. If your world has been shrinking and getting smaller and smaller, I can help. Let's get you feeling better. I will help you cultivate a road map that guides you towards your values, while also problem-solving barriers, symptoms, and challenges to help equip you for the journey.
(331) 244-1928 View (331) 244-1928
Photo of Valerie J Piazza, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Valerie J Piazza
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
My 30 year background in Nursing lends a deep understanding when working with clients faced with the challenge of living with life-changing, chronic illness.
When facing a stressful life experience or traumatic event that is causing significant emotional distress, you may realize that working through it alone or talking with family and friends isn't enough to bring relief. Calling a professional dedicated to helping you understand and develop healthy coping skills is often the most difficult, but necessary step to finding relief, emotional growth and healing.
My 30 year background in Nursing lends a deep understanding when working with clients faced with the challenge of living with life-changing, chronic illness.
When facing a stressful life experience or traumatic event that is causing significant emotional distress, you may realize that working through it alone or talking with family and friends isn't enough to bring relief. Calling a professional dedicated to helping you understand and develop healthy coping skills is often the most difficult, but necessary step to finding relief, emotional growth and healing.
(773) 672-8656 View (773) 672-8656
Photo of Christine I Miller, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine I Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514  (Online Only)
Through a variety of approaches, I can help turn your experience of pain into power and wounds into wisdom.
Are you struggling with uncertainty? Are you a new parent and feeling overwhelmed? Co-Parenting? Change? There’s no need to hide; The struggle is real! I am a mother, a partner and a human being; I too have struggles. You are doing yourself a great service by asking for support and assistance. I am here to help! I am passionate about assisting people in getting some relief from the pain or discomfort they are experiencing. I believe that it is imperative to treat the whole person in order to get long-term results and sustainable change. I am eager to assist patients in restoring balance in their lives and find enjoyment again.
Through a variety of approaches, I can help turn your experience of pain into power and wounds into wisdom.
Are you struggling with uncertainty? Are you a new parent and feeling overwhelmed? Co-Parenting? Change? There’s no need to hide; The struggle is real! I am a mother, a partner and a human being; I too have struggles. You are doing yourself a great service by asking for support and assistance. I am here to help! I am passionate about assisting people in getting some relief from the pain or discomfort they are experiencing. I believe that it is imperative to treat the whole person in order to get long-term results and sustainable change. I am eager to assist patients in restoring balance in their lives and find enjoyment again.
(815) 367-8606 View (815) 367-8606
Photo of Bill Rabulinski, LCPC, Counselor
Bill Rabulinski
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60521
I believe that everyone is capable of achieving goals that align with their values and what is important to them. Unfortunately we encounter many stressors in our day-to-day lives that pull us away from living a valued life. Things like stress relating to work, relationships, chronic pain/health conditions, past traumas, symptoms of mental health conditions, or any combination of these can act as barrier with living the life we want.
I believe that everyone is capable of achieving goals that align with their values and what is important to them. Unfortunately we encounter many stressors in our day-to-day lives that pull us away from living a valued life. Things like stress relating to work, relationships, chronic pain/health conditions, past traumas, symptoms of mental health conditions, or any combination of these can act as barrier with living the life we want.
(331) 305-4464 View (331) 305-4464
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 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 Dawn Kroencke, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Dawn Kroencke
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
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 x3 View (630) 360-8489 x3
Photo of David Manno - Ketamine - Midwest Alternative Treatment Clinic
Ketamine - Midwest Alternative Treatment Clinic
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60521
We opened Midwest Alternative Treatment Clinic to improve the lives of patients who suffer from depression, anxiety, addiction, chronic pain, and PTSD.
At Midwest Alternative Treatment Clinic, we utilize an approach validated in research and experience to tailor a ketamine program that suits your individual needs and meet you where you are in your journey. Rooted in human relationships, our practice strives to improve your health through mutual respect and collaboration. Individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain have all received benefit from ketamine and we are excited to assist you on your path to wellness.
We opened Midwest Alternative Treatment Clinic to improve the lives of patients who suffer from depression, anxiety, addiction, chronic pain, and PTSD.
At Midwest Alternative Treatment Clinic, we utilize an approach validated in research and experience to tailor a ketamine program that suits your individual needs and meet you where you are in your journey. Rooted in human relationships, our practice strives to improve your health through mutual respect and collaboration. Individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain have all received benefit from ketamine and we are excited to assist you on your path to wellness.
(708) 334-8075 View (708) 334-8075

See more therapy options for Willowbrook

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.