Chronic Pain Therapists in Northampton, MA

Photo of Robert Zucker, MA, FT
Robert Zucker
MA, FT
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
If you're having a tough time facing a life-changing or life-threatening illness, coming to terms with another major life transition, or grieving a significant death, then let's talk.
Has your loss been life-changing - perhaps deeply disorienting? Are friends and family expecting you to get over it, but you simply can't? I have been a grief counselor for over 25 years, and have worked with all sort of loss issues. While grief can be crazy-making and terribly painful, I know that with grace and in time, you can discover safe, effective ways of moving through your grief and learn to live well again.
If you're having a tough time facing a life-changing or life-threatening illness, coming to terms with another major life transition, or grieving a significant death, then let's talk.
Has your loss been life-changing - perhaps deeply disorienting? Are friends and family expecting you to get over it, but you simply can't? I have been a grief counselor for over 25 years, and have worked with all sort of loss issues. While grief can be crazy-making and terribly painful, I know that with grace and in time, you can discover safe, effective ways of moving through your grief and learn to live well again.
(413) 650-6264 View (413) 650-6264
Photo of Lara Birk, PhD
Lara Birk
PhD
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you live with chronic pain or other symptoms? I personally understand how scary and frustrating this is.
I am a pain reprocessing coach, educator, and group facilitator based in the Boston area. The Sage Practice LLC is my private coaching practice, where I work with clients both individually and in groups. What's fun about working via Zoom is my clients come to me from all across the world. As a former sociology professor, I think of coaching as a form of teaching (which I did for almost 20 years prior to moving into this). I teach clients evidence-based strategies so they can learn to calm their own nervous system, which in turn can help calm their symptoms. I offer free resources on my website and my teachings on the Curable app.
Do you live with chronic pain or other symptoms? I personally understand how scary and frustrating this is.
I am a pain reprocessing coach, educator, and group facilitator based in the Boston area. The Sage Practice LLC is my private coaching practice, where I work with clients both individually and in groups. What's fun about working via Zoom is my clients come to me from all across the world. As a former sociology professor, I think of coaching as a form of teaching (which I did for almost 20 years prior to moving into this). I teach clients evidence-based strategies so they can learn to calm their own nervous system, which in turn can help calm their symptoms. I offer free resources on my website and my teachings on the Curable app.
(210) 934-4847 View (210) 934-4847
Photo of Suzie Goldstein, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Suzie Goldstein
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
I embrace a holistic mind-body approach to psychotherapy, which began with becoming a certified Iyengar yoga therapist/ instructor over 10 years ago, specializing in chronic illness/injury. Because this foundation, my integrative approach to clinical work is somatically-based, trauma-centered, and utilizes a neurobiological and attachment-informed lens grounded in social justice. I also utilize cutting-edge evidence-based practices like Flash for trauma. I bring a warm, relational frame to any work with all clients, while always striving to center and support what is important to your particular healing.
I embrace a holistic mind-body approach to psychotherapy, which began with becoming a certified Iyengar yoga therapist/ instructor over 10 years ago, specializing in chronic illness/injury. Because this foundation, my integrative approach to clinical work is somatically-based, trauma-centered, and utilizes a neurobiological and attachment-informed lens grounded in social justice. I also utilize cutting-edge evidence-based practices like Flash for trauma. I bring a warm, relational frame to any work with all clients, while always striving to center and support what is important to your particular healing.
(413) 423-0977 View (413) 423-0977
Photo of M. Sarah Carr, MA, LMHC, Counselor
M. Sarah Carr
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
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 Elizabeth Grace Burkhart, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Grace Burkhart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
With any disability comes a long list of consequential problems: chronic pain, depression, opioid addiction, etc.
Entering into the therapeutic process is a brave endeavor. I consider it a privilege to work with individuals who are searching for ways to be more authentic in their daily lives. So many of us get broadsided by life, be it a sudden death, a near fatal accident, relationship issues, or just a nagging desire to be more joyful! We will strive to unravel the complications that life and any kind of challenge may bring. My goal for you is to learn how to allow yourself to live more fully each day. I firmly believe that every person holds his or her own truth.
With any disability comes a long list of consequential problems: chronic pain, depression, opioid addiction, etc.
Entering into the therapeutic process is a brave endeavor. I consider it a privilege to work with individuals who are searching for ways to be more authentic in their daily lives. So many of us get broadsided by life, be it a sudden death, a near fatal accident, relationship issues, or just a nagging desire to be more joyful! We will strive to unravel the complications that life and any kind of challenge may bring. My goal for you is to learn how to allow yourself to live more fully each day. I firmly believe that every person holds his or her own truth.
(413) 372-8970 View (413) 372-8970
Photo of Milton Hanzel, LMHC, Counselor
Milton Hanzel
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
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 Matthew Czaplinski, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Czaplinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
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 Andrea E. Cole, PhD, Psychologist
Andrea E. Cole
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
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 Nikki Gamache, MA, LMHC, CGT, Counselor
Nikki Gamache
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CGT
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
Techniques like EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) empower you to gently explore your deepest pain and access your inner strength.
NOTE: I am not accepting weekly clients, only intensive clients at this time. Unhealed trauma and loss can significantly impact our lives, making it challenging to experience happiness, clarity, compassion, and joy. These experiences can trap us in cycles of negative thoughts, behaviors, and feelings. You may yearn to break free from this cycle, but hopelessness and feeling trapped can be common. Trauma therapy can help! I specialize in intensive trauma therapy designed to help you address past traumas and break free from these cycles.
Techniques like EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) empower you to gently explore your deepest pain and access your inner strength.
NOTE: I am not accepting weekly clients, only intensive clients at this time. Unhealed trauma and loss can significantly impact our lives, making it challenging to experience happiness, clarity, compassion, and joy. These experiences can trap us in cycles of negative thoughts, behaviors, and feelings. You may yearn to break free from this cycle, but hopelessness and feeling trapped can be common. Trauma therapy can help! I specialize in intensive trauma therapy designed to help you address past traumas and break free from these cycles.
(413) 304-2253 View (413) 304-2253
Photo of Michelle Fried, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michelle Fried
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
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
Northampton, MA 01062
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
Photo of Larissa Beecher - Strawberry Therapy - Neurodivergence and EDs, MS, MHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Strawberry Therapy - Neurodivergence and EDs
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MHC
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients. My name is Larissa, and I am a specialist in treating eating disorders and neurodivergence.  I have successfully worked with many clients to improve binging, restrictive, and purging behaviors, ARFID, and related symptoms including sensory issues, a limited food variety (“picky eaters”), concentration and focus skills, and coping with chronic illness.  I give positive, trauma-informed care without sugar coating of the challenges of mental health recovery. I provide context behind the development and maintenance of symptoms while holding my clients accountable for what is within their own control.
I am accepting new clients. My name is Larissa, and I am a specialist in treating eating disorders and neurodivergence.  I have successfully worked with many clients to improve binging, restrictive, and purging behaviors, ARFID, and related symptoms including sensory issues, a limited food variety (“picky eaters”), concentration and focus skills, and coping with chronic illness.  I give positive, trauma-informed care without sugar coating of the challenges of mental health recovery. I provide context behind the development and maintenance of symptoms while holding my clients accountable for what is within their own control.
(413) 287-1013 View (413) 287-1013
Photo of Kel Thomas, PhD, Psychologist
Kel Thomas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
Dr. Thomas (they/them) is a queer, transgender (non-binary and transmasculine), chronically ill, disabled, neuro-divergent and non-monogamous psychologist and they often work with clients from these communities, as well as fellow care workers and others who engage in social-justice work. They are also sex-work and kink affirming and liberation is at the core of all their work. Dr. Thomas works with adults with a variety of concerns and has specialties in treating: Grief, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, interpersonal trauma in childhood, dissociative disorders, and gender exploration/ transition support.
Dr. Thomas (they/them) is a queer, transgender (non-binary and transmasculine), chronically ill, disabled, neuro-divergent and non-monogamous psychologist and they often work with clients from these communities, as well as fellow care workers and others who engage in social-justice work. They are also sex-work and kink affirming and liberation is at the core of all their work. Dr. Thomas works with adults with a variety of concerns and has specialties in treating: Grief, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, interpersonal trauma in childhood, dissociative disorders, and gender exploration/ transition support.
(617) 751-6289 View (617) 751-6289
Photo of Dr. Chelsey Solar, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Chelsey Solar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
As a clinical health psychologist, I have specific expertise in working with adults with health concerns, rare medical illnesses, and/or chronic illness.
As we go through life, we can find ourselves feeling “stuck” in patterns or situations that limit satisfaction and create barriers to achieving our goals. Sometimes these patterns develop slowly over time and sometimes circumstances shift rapidly – leaving us overwhelmed and unsure of where to go next. I believe the role of psychotherapy is to create an open and affirming space to explore patterns with compassion and curiosity, clarify values, and make progress towards living an authentic and fulfilling life.
As a clinical health psychologist, I have specific expertise in working with adults with health concerns, rare medical illnesses, and/or chronic illness.
As we go through life, we can find ourselves feeling “stuck” in patterns or situations that limit satisfaction and create barriers to achieving our goals. Sometimes these patterns develop slowly over time and sometimes circumstances shift rapidly – leaving us overwhelmed and unsure of where to go next. I believe the role of psychotherapy is to create an open and affirming space to explore patterns with compassion and curiosity, clarify values, and make progress towards living an authentic and fulfilling life.
(617) 315-8856 View (617) 315-8856
Photo of Jaime Beth Gershman, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaime Beth Gershman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
Since 1990 I have helped people with anxiety, depression, addiction issues, relationships, life transitions, loss, illness, pain, healing, creative challenges, recent and past trauma, and high sensitivity (HSP).
My intention is to help people discover lasting pathways to feel better. I will bring my warmth, heart, experience and presence to our unique collaboration as we focus on how you want to feel in your life. I practice a body-centered approach to counseling. Woven through our talking together will be periods of mindfulness and tuning in as a way to deepen awareness, growth and healing. When we have the support we need--we feel more freedom to be ourselves emotionally, intellectually, physically and spiritually. As distortions release--we naturally heal, improve our relationships, and make authentic life choices that feel good.
Since 1990 I have helped people with anxiety, depression, addiction issues, relationships, life transitions, loss, illness, pain, healing, creative challenges, recent and past trauma, and high sensitivity (HSP).
My intention is to help people discover lasting pathways to feel better. I will bring my warmth, heart, experience and presence to our unique collaboration as we focus on how you want to feel in your life. I practice a body-centered approach to counseling. Woven through our talking together will be periods of mindfulness and tuning in as a way to deepen awareness, growth and healing. When we have the support we need--we feel more freedom to be ourselves emotionally, intellectually, physically and spiritually. As distortions release--we naturally heal, improve our relationships, and make authentic life choices that feel good.
(413) 387-4218 View (413) 387-4218
Photo of Ross W. Hackerson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ross W. Hackerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
I work with individuals, couples and families looking for understanding, safety and connection in their lives. Whether the difficulty and pain you experience comes from trauma, neglect, abandonment or relationship conflict I believe you have the capacity and right to heal, feel good and live a good life; and that you can! I've worked with people recovering from childhood neglect, sexual and emotional abuse and the lack of connection that comes from preoccupied, distant, disconnected and or self absorbed parents. I'm constantly amazed at the power of this work.
I work with individuals, couples and families looking for understanding, safety and connection in their lives. Whether the difficulty and pain you experience comes from trauma, neglect, abandonment or relationship conflict I believe you have the capacity and right to heal, feel good and live a good life; and that you can! I've worked with people recovering from childhood neglect, sexual and emotional abuse and the lack of connection that comes from preoccupied, distant, disconnected and or self absorbed parents. I'm constantly amazed at the power of this work.
(413) 251-1461 View (413) 251-1461
Photo of Emily Mentin-Chamble, MSW, LICSW, CIHMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Mentin-Chamble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CIHMHP
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (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 Anna Kogan, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Kogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
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 Carolyn McGill, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn McGill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (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 Debra Krumholz, LMHC, MEd, MPH, Counselor
Debra Krumholz
Counselor, LMHC, MEd, MPH
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (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

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.