Chronic Pain Therapists in Amherst, MA

Photo of Sarah Seward, PhD, Psychologist
Sarah Seward
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
Waitlist for new clients
There are many reasons to seek professional emotional help. Chronic feelings of stress, sadness and fear, relationship conflict, the pain of past trauma, or the struggle to cope with a physical illness. As a psychologist, I combine my extensive clinical training with a passion for transforming life's emotional challenges into avenues for personal growth, comprehensive wellness, and self-fulfillment. Through my experience, compassion, and humanity I will work collaboratively with you to build a therapeutic relationship that promotes the safe and respectful exploration of the difficulties you are facing.
There are many reasons to seek professional emotional help. Chronic feelings of stress, sadness and fear, relationship conflict, the pain of past trauma, or the struggle to cope with a physical illness. As a psychologist, I combine my extensive clinical training with a passion for transforming life's emotional challenges into avenues for personal growth, comprehensive wellness, and self-fulfillment. Through my experience, compassion, and humanity I will work collaboratively with you to build a therapeutic relationship that promotes the safe and respectful exploration of the difficulties you are facing.
(413) 206-2173 View (413) 206-2173
Photo of Felicia Sevene, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Felicia Sevene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
I've supported people from many walks of life struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, oppression, grief/loss, chronic pain, low self-esteem, addictions and other issues.
We all need help and support sometimes. Many of us have been taught that asking for help is a sign of weakness. We may have tried reaching out for help and were ignored, shamed, or hurt by those we trusted, leading us to create protections, to shut down, or to engage in unworkable coping strategies that keep us stuck and hurting. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming just trying to untangle and make sense of it all. The truth is, asking for help is brave and takes courage. You don't have to do it alone!
I've supported people from many walks of life struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, oppression, grief/loss, chronic pain, low self-esteem, addictions and other issues.
We all need help and support sometimes. Many of us have been taught that asking for help is a sign of weakness. We may have tried reaching out for help and were ignored, shamed, or hurt by those we trusted, leading us to create protections, to shut down, or to engage in unworkable coping strategies that keep us stuck and hurting. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming just trying to untangle and make sense of it all. The truth is, asking for help is brave and takes courage. You don't have to do it alone!
(413) 278-6792 View (413) 278-6792
Photo of Anna Kogan, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Kogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
At times we find ourselves confronted by stressful situations, like an impasse with a boss, conflict at home, financial or school-related pressures, major life transitions, losses and health issues, to name a few. How can one find the strength and courage needed to deal with a complex problem at hand, without giving up and succumbing to pain and suffering? I would like to offer you supportive compassionate guidance and professional knowledge to help you succeed in dealing with challenges in your life.
At times we find ourselves confronted by stressful situations, like an impasse with a boss, conflict at home, financial or school-related pressures, major life transitions, losses and health issues, to name a few. How can one find the strength and courage needed to deal with a complex problem at hand, without giving up and succumbing to pain and suffering? I would like to offer you supportive compassionate guidance and professional knowledge to help you succeed in dealing with challenges in your life.
(413) 944-0965 View (413) 944-0965
Photo of Emily Mentin-Chamble, MSW, LICSW, CIHMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Mentin-Chamble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CIHMHP
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
I am eager to work with clients seeking insight and change in their lives. I strive to create a trusting relationship that fosters emotional and spiritual growth while examining the issues that are preventing you from living up to your full potential. I work from an anti-oppression lens, prioritizing psychospiritual holistic health and wellness, utilizing my years of clinical training and experience in treating individuals and communities deeply impacted by trauma, grief/loss and illness. I offer EMDR treatment in addition to psychodynamic psychotherapy to support healing and lasting transformative change.
I am eager to work with clients seeking insight and change in their lives. I strive to create a trusting relationship that fosters emotional and spiritual growth while examining the issues that are preventing you from living up to your full potential. I work from an anti-oppression lens, prioritizing psychospiritual holistic health and wellness, utilizing my years of clinical training and experience in treating individuals and communities deeply impacted by trauma, grief/loss and illness. I offer EMDR treatment in addition to psychodynamic psychotherapy to support healing and lasting transformative change.
(413) 676-1073 View (413) 676-1073
Photo of Asher Pandjiris, LICSW, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Asher Pandjiris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002
My clients are typically “high achievers,” parentified children or people pleasers who seek to know themselves more deeply. I specialize in working with disordered eating, life transitions, anxiety and depression. Our work together offers a space to bring into more conscious awareness, unacknowledged pain, longings and barriers to substantive nourishment of self. When the remnants of our past emerge in our present, it can feel disorienting and painful. I offer curiosity, warmth and empathy towards these emergent experiences and accompany you in deepening your self-understanding.
My clients are typically “high achievers,” parentified children or people pleasers who seek to know themselves more deeply. I specialize in working with disordered eating, life transitions, anxiety and depression. Our work together offers a space to bring into more conscious awareness, unacknowledged pain, longings and barriers to substantive nourishment of self. When the remnants of our past emerge in our present, it can feel disorienting and painful. I offer curiosity, warmth and empathy towards these emergent experiences and accompany you in deepening your self-understanding.
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Photo of Sally Kealy, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sally Kealy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
But in the end, making small changes to self defeating behavior and coping with anger, sadness, fear, and pain can bring life-altering results.
I feel honored to work with individuals who are motivated to explore issues, establish goals for change, and take restorative steps toward stress reduction and inner peace. I am a licensed Gestalt psychotherapist who focuses on reintegrating our broken parts, and an ordained Buddhist priest/Zen Teacher (Sensei). I believe returning to one's original self is key to entering life's many challenges. It is a humbling honor to enter this exploration and journey with clients that enter my practice.
But in the end, making small changes to self defeating behavior and coping with anger, sadness, fear, and pain can bring life-altering results.
I feel honored to work with individuals who are motivated to explore issues, establish goals for change, and take restorative steps toward stress reduction and inner peace. I am a licensed Gestalt psychotherapist who focuses on reintegrating our broken parts, and an ordained Buddhist priest/Zen Teacher (Sensei). I believe returning to one's original self is key to entering life's many challenges. It is a humbling honor to enter this exploration and journey with clients that enter my practice.
(413) 362-7570 View (413) 362-7570
Photo of Andy Steinmark, PsyD, Psychologist
Andy Steinmark
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
Hello, and thank you for stopping by to learn how I can be of service to you. I'm a formally trained health psychologist with expertise in the areas of creating and living a healthy life-style, work-life balance, stress management, depression, anxiety, and with specializations in chronic insomnia, and living with chronic illness. I collaborate with individuals interested in taking an active role in creating a life of meaning and fulfillment--of greater vitality. Treatment is focused, values-based, and goal oriented--as well as being frequently brief. Additionally, I also assist individuals in more fully developing their potential.
Hello, and thank you for stopping by to learn how I can be of service to you. I'm a formally trained health psychologist with expertise in the areas of creating and living a healthy life-style, work-life balance, stress management, depression, anxiety, and with specializations in chronic insomnia, and living with chronic illness. I collaborate with individuals interested in taking an active role in creating a life of meaning and fulfillment--of greater vitality. Treatment is focused, values-based, and goal oriented--as well as being frequently brief. Additionally, I also assist individuals in more fully developing their potential.
(413) 998-0851 View (413) 998-0851
Photo of Cathy Pedevillano, LMHC, MA, MS, Counselor
Cathy Pedevillano
Counselor, LMHC, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
Waitlist for new clients
We are living in unprecedented times filled with great challenge and incredible opportunity for growth. Global and personal events can leave us feeling isolated, disconnected, anxious and depressed. We search for meaning and purpose amidst the overwhelm of loss, transition, disease and chronic pain. Yet, this chaos can be the grit that moves us toward greater awareness and freedom. Support, connection, compassion and skilled guidance can help us forge new pathways in our lives, our brains and our bodies. We then have more capacity to reclaim our inherent joy, creativity and the power to build a positive light-filled future.
We are living in unprecedented times filled with great challenge and incredible opportunity for growth. Global and personal events can leave us feeling isolated, disconnected, anxious and depressed. We search for meaning and purpose amidst the overwhelm of loss, transition, disease and chronic pain. Yet, this chaos can be the grit that moves us toward greater awareness and freedom. Support, connection, compassion and skilled guidance can help us forge new pathways in our lives, our brains and our bodies. We then have more capacity to reclaim our inherent joy, creativity and the power to build a positive light-filled future.
(413) 207-9959 x855 View (413) 207-9959 x855
Photo of Liz LaRaia, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz LaRaia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients! I am so excited to support you in your journey to living your best life! My name is Liz and I work with people aged 17+ who want to improve their ability to manage challenging aspects of their lives. When problems related to substance use, mood disorders, grief, trauma, chronic illness or pain, parenting, educational and professional stress become overwhelming I can provide supportive and reassuring opportunities for change. It can be frightening to confront these parts of ourselves. I will provide a compassionate, validating and safe space to move forward in your life and accomplish your goals.
Now accepting new clients! I am so excited to support you in your journey to living your best life! My name is Liz and I work with people aged 17+ who want to improve their ability to manage challenging aspects of their lives. When problems related to substance use, mood disorders, grief, trauma, chronic illness or pain, parenting, educational and professional stress become overwhelming I can provide supportive and reassuring opportunities for change. It can be frightening to confront these parts of ourselves. I will provide a compassionate, validating and safe space to move forward in your life and accomplish your goals.
(413) 992-3481 View (413) 992-3481
Photo of Robert Davis - Integrated Health Solutions, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Integrated Health Solutions, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and neurotherapist. I utilize state-of-the-art, neuroscience-based technologies to help facilitate change in my clients. I work with individuals from three to over eighty years of age. Most people contact me as a result of an understandable ambivalence towards taking medications or a desire to reduce the difficulties associated with some mental or physical condition viewed by others as 'unalterable' or life-long (e.g., ADHD, learning disabilities, autism, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, traumatic brain injury, or other medical conditions).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and neurotherapist. I utilize state-of-the-art, neuroscience-based technologies to help facilitate change in my clients. I work with individuals from three to over eighty years of age. Most people contact me as a result of an understandable ambivalence towards taking medications or a desire to reduce the difficulties associated with some mental or physical condition viewed by others as 'unalterable' or life-long (e.g., ADHD, learning disabilities, autism, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, traumatic brain injury, or other medical conditions).
(413) 650-1323 View (413) 650-1323
Photo of Debra Krumholz, LMHC, MEd, MPH, Counselor
Debra Krumholz
Counselor, LMHC, MEd, MPH
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
Most of us decide to enter into therapy because we are in pain and we want to find ways to end the pain. We feel stuck, without choices. While we are drawn to change and growth, it can also be very scary. As your therapist, I see it as my job to help you find the courage to see yourself clearly, to harness your own strength and resources, and to discover your own answers.
Most of us decide to enter into therapy because we are in pain and we want to find ways to end the pain. We feel stuck, without choices. While we are drawn to change and growth, it can also be very scary. As your therapist, I see it as my job to help you find the courage to see yourself clearly, to harness your own strength and resources, and to discover your own answers.
(413) 314-3162 View (413) 314-3162
Photo of Milton Hanzel, LMHC, Counselor
Milton Hanzel
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
My client is the expert on my client and my job is to help unlock their innate wisdom. Our troubles are the side effects of adaptations forged by hardship, and we can change them using strengths in ourselves, families and community. Feeling more connected to others involves communication skills, and tolerance for irritation and vulnerability (inevitable in close relationships). Therapy can help you hold your pain differently. You can feel better living with your past, instead of waiting to get rid of it. I help clients to address spiritual roadblocks and to help build a fulfilling and meaningful life, with the pain.
My client is the expert on my client and my job is to help unlock their innate wisdom. Our troubles are the side effects of adaptations forged by hardship, and we can change them using strengths in ourselves, families and community. Feeling more connected to others involves communication skills, and tolerance for irritation and vulnerability (inevitable in close relationships). Therapy can help you hold your pain differently. You can feel better living with your past, instead of waiting to get rid of it. I help clients to address spiritual roadblocks and to help build a fulfilling and meaningful life, with the pain.
(413) 848-8233 View (413) 848-8233
Photo of Carolyn McGill, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn McGill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adult clients experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress and adjustment issues related to life stressors. I have extensive experience working with individuals impacted by trauma,issues of loss, disability, chronic illness and pain. My work includes assisting individuals who have survived trauma and abuse, as well as those who struggle with addiction. I blend introspective exploration of one self with cognitive, behavioral, supportive and problem-solving approaches. My goal is to create a safe setting where one is able to explore and create a path towards healing and growth.
I work with adult clients experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress and adjustment issues related to life stressors. I have extensive experience working with individuals impacted by trauma,issues of loss, disability, chronic illness and pain. My work includes assisting individuals who have survived trauma and abuse, as well as those who struggle with addiction. I blend introspective exploration of one self with cognitive, behavioral, supportive and problem-solving approaches. My goal is to create a safe setting where one is able to explore and create a path towards healing and growth.
(413) 241-5491 View (413) 241-5491
Photo of Andrea E. Cole, PhD, Psychologist
Andrea E. Cole
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
I also use clinical hypnosis to address specific problems such as insomnia and chronic pain.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice in Northampton, Massachusetts. I have worked with adults and college students for over 25 years. My areas of specialization include depression, bereavement, loss, anxiety/stress and sleep difficulties. I also provide treatment to people with relationship, self-esteem, life transition and academic issues.
I also use clinical hypnosis to address specific problems such as insomnia and chronic pain.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice in Northampton, Massachusetts. I have worked with adults and college students for over 25 years. My areas of specialization include depression, bereavement, loss, anxiety/stress and sleep difficulties. I also provide treatment to people with relationship, self-esteem, life transition and academic issues.
(413) 587-0728 View (413) 587-0728
Photo of Matthew Czaplinski, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Czaplinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
I specialize in working with people seeking help with depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, relationships, life decisions, creative and spiritual struggles, concerns about sex and sexuality, loss and illness.
Good therapy helps us shift from feeling blocked by internal conflicts and fears to having a transformative relationship with ourselves and others. Mindfulness and IFS are two highly effective approaches to help access beneficial qualities of mind, even in difficult circumstances. I have successfully helped clients with a wide range of issues for 20 years, and have taught and supervised students in these techniques.
I specialize in working with people seeking help with depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, relationships, life decisions, creative and spiritual struggles, concerns about sex and sexuality, loss and illness.
Good therapy helps us shift from feeling blocked by internal conflicts and fears to having a transformative relationship with ourselves and others. Mindfulness and IFS are two highly effective approaches to help access beneficial qualities of mind, even in difficult circumstances. I have successfully helped clients with a wide range of issues for 20 years, and have taught and supervised students in these techniques.
(413) 341-1053 View (413) 341-1053
Photo of M. Sarah Carr, MA, LMHC, Counselor
M. Sarah Carr
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
I support people with concerns about aging, body-image, sexuality, chronic pain, relationship struggles, anxiety, and trauma.
I am a somatic psychotherapist specializing in body-based healing. I enjoy working with clients who want to step out of disempowering narratives and embrace their own capacity. I have 20+ years of experience working with many populations and conditions. Recently I have specialized in couples therapy using the Developmental Model and Attachment work. I only work with a limited number of couples at this time, but these approaches deeply inform my work, even with individuals. I have recently narrowed my practice to focus on clients in acute need or looking to do more focused chapters of work or growth vs ongoing maintenance therapy.
I support people with concerns about aging, body-image, sexuality, chronic pain, relationship struggles, anxiety, and trauma.
I am a somatic psychotherapist specializing in body-based healing. I enjoy working with clients who want to step out of disempowering narratives and embrace their own capacity. I have 20+ years of experience working with many populations and conditions. Recently I have specialized in couples therapy using the Developmental Model and Attachment work. I only work with a limited number of couples at this time, but these approaches deeply inform my work, even with individuals. I have recently narrowed my practice to focus on clients in acute need or looking to do more focused chapters of work or growth vs ongoing maintenance therapy.
(413) 863-6681 View (413) 863-6681
Photo of Jenni Brennan, MSW, LICSW, CEIS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenni Brennan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CEIS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
With over 10 years of experience as a clinical social worker, I offer specialization in the following areas of individual counseling: Grief & Loss, Adjustment Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Chronic Illness, Geriatric/Elder Concerns, Maternal Health and Infertility/Adoption/Surrogacy.
I approach all counseling sessions from a strengths-based perspective, assisting you to identify and draw upon your inherent resources. Authenticity, transparency and acceptance are deeply valued by me, resulting in truly honest and supportive counseling sessions. By collaborating closely together, you and I will define and work toward realistic goals in order to maximize your time in counseling. Available to see residents of Massachusetts or Florida via Telehealth.
With over 10 years of experience as a clinical social worker, I offer specialization in the following areas of individual counseling: Grief & Loss, Adjustment Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Chronic Illness, Geriatric/Elder Concerns, Maternal Health and Infertility/Adoption/Surrogacy.
I approach all counseling sessions from a strengths-based perspective, assisting you to identify and draw upon your inherent resources. Authenticity, transparency and acceptance are deeply valued by me, resulting in truly honest and supportive counseling sessions. By collaborating closely together, you and I will define and work toward realistic goals in order to maximize your time in counseling. Available to see residents of Massachusetts or Florida via Telehealth.
(781) 912-3671 View (781) 912-3671
Photo of Victoria L North, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Victoria L North
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
My path in life has enabled me to experience grief, chronic illness and disease, divorce, domestic violence and feelings of loneliness and despair.
Do you ever feel that no matter how hard you try, you just "fail" every time? Do you look at yourself in the mirror with disgust and wonder why you feel so alone? Life is hard without all the challenges that meets us along the way. I am here to walk your journey with you. You are not alone. Together we can meet life's challenges; whether it is a loss of a loved one, nightmares that come from a traumatic event, feelings of loneliness and unworthiness, anxiety, relationship problems, suicidal thoughts and self harming behaviors, brokenness, chronic pain and illness, death and dying. You do not need to journey alone.
My path in life has enabled me to experience grief, chronic illness and disease, divorce, domestic violence and feelings of loneliness and despair.
Do you ever feel that no matter how hard you try, you just "fail" every time? Do you look at yourself in the mirror with disgust and wonder why you feel so alone? Life is hard without all the challenges that meets us along the way. I am here to walk your journey with you. You are not alone. Together we can meet life's challenges; whether it is a loss of a loved one, nightmares that come from a traumatic event, feelings of loneliness and unworthiness, anxiety, relationship problems, suicidal thoughts and self harming behaviors, brokenness, chronic pain and illness, death and dying. You do not need to journey alone.
(413) 216-4879 View (413) 216-4879
Photo of Michelle Fried, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michelle Fried
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
Life’s difficult turns can motivate us to take action for change. You may have daily challenges with low moods, anxiety, problems with memory or concentration, trauma, chronic pain, or grief. Or maybe you have past experiences that continue to hurt you. Psychotherapy can become a valuable tool to address these challenges starting with where you are now. It can be an opportunity to assess your current situation, clarify your goals, and build skills that empower you toward increased well-being, better directions, and desired outcomes.
Life’s difficult turns can motivate us to take action for change. You may have daily challenges with low moods, anxiety, problems with memory or concentration, trauma, chronic pain, or grief. Or maybe you have past experiences that continue to hurt you. Psychotherapy can become a valuable tool to address these challenges starting with where you are now. It can be an opportunity to assess your current situation, clarify your goals, and build skills that empower you toward increased well-being, better directions, and desired outcomes.
(413) 324-5838 View (413) 324-5838
Photo of Carolyn Sandel -  Seniors, Adults, Caregivers Illness, Grief, LGBTQ, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seniors, Adults, Caregivers Illness, Grief, LGBTQ
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
You don't have to go it alone. Are you an older adult or the caregiver for a parent or spouse? Struggling to keep your balance while dealing with chronic illness or pain? Have you lost a loved one or had a major life change? All of these challenges bring fatigue, isolation, loneliness, and feelings of loss. With help, you can better understand your feelings and better meet your challenge. If you are stressed and feeling burnt out, depressed, or weighed down by anxiety, reach out for help. In therapy, you can get the support that you need to build on your strengths and thrive. Serving adults of all ages and the LGBTQ+ community
You don't have to go it alone. Are you an older adult or the caregiver for a parent or spouse? Struggling to keep your balance while dealing with chronic illness or pain? Have you lost a loved one or had a major life change? All of these challenges bring fatigue, isolation, loneliness, and feelings of loss. With help, you can better understand your feelings and better meet your challenge. If you are stressed and feeling burnt out, depressed, or weighed down by anxiety, reach out for help. In therapy, you can get the support that you need to build on your strengths and thrive. Serving adults of all ages and the LGBTQ+ community
(413) 722-5553 View (413) 722-5553
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.