Chronic Pain Therapists in Essex County, NJ

Photo of Brooke Myers Sorger, PhD, Psychologist
Brooke Myers Sorger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
She is specialty trained in the area of palliative care medicine with focus on chronic and potentially life threatening illness, death, and grief and the psychological ramifications for patients and their families.
Finding yourself is a profound process which has no end. Dr. Sorger invites you to join her in a search for your organic self. Do you wonder where the truest parts of yourself reside? Do you wonder how you became so bitter and broken down by a life that you intended to live quite differently? We are our conditioning and our defenses. As a result, we can learn new ways of being and unlearn old ways. Dr. Sorger believes that the teacher and the taught together create the teachings. Come and create the life that you have envisioned.
She is specialty trained in the area of palliative care medicine with focus on chronic and potentially life threatening illness, death, and grief and the psychological ramifications for patients and their families.
Finding yourself is a profound process which has no end. Dr. Sorger invites you to join her in a search for your organic self. Do you wonder where the truest parts of yourself reside? Do you wonder how you became so bitter and broken down by a life that you intended to live quite differently? We are our conditioning and our defenses. As a result, we can learn new ways of being and unlearn old ways. Dr. Sorger believes that the teacher and the taught together create the teachings. Come and create the life that you have envisioned.
(973) 797-9057 View (973) 797-9057
Photo of Randi Gelfand, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Randi Gelfand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Learning to identify and experience conscious and unconscious emotions is integral to relieving chronic pain.
Randi Gelfand is a licensed clinical social worker in the state of New Jersey who earned her Masters degree in Social Work at Rutgers University. She has experience helping adults with a wide variety of mental and emotional health issues including relationship issues, parenting concerns, life transitions, mood and anxiety disorders, psychological trauma/abuse, and grief and loss. Randi specializes in the treatment of chronic pain using a mind body approach. She believes that chronic pain can often have psychological causes, which are commonly rooted in childhood experiences, as well as current and/or longstanding stressors.
Learning to identify and experience conscious and unconscious emotions is integral to relieving chronic pain.
Randi Gelfand is a licensed clinical social worker in the state of New Jersey who earned her Masters degree in Social Work at Rutgers University. She has experience helping adults with a wide variety of mental and emotional health issues including relationship issues, parenting concerns, life transitions, mood and anxiety disorders, psychological trauma/abuse, and grief and loss. Randi specializes in the treatment of chronic pain using a mind body approach. She believes that chronic pain can often have psychological causes, which are commonly rooted in childhood experiences, as well as current and/or longstanding stressors.
(908) 388-9025 View (908) 388-9025
Photo of Dr. Jill S Broderick, OTD, OTR/L, BCB, Occupational Therapist
Dr. Jill S Broderick
Occupational Therapist, OTD, OTR/L, BCB
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Learning how to relax or manage pain doesn't have to be complicated.
Welcome! If you are motivated to decrease stress, pain and anxiety you have come to the right place. I am an occupational therapist with a clinical specialty in biofeedback. I teach people how to quiet their nervous system producing a calming effect. People learn how to relax muscles, breathe slower, lower their heart rate and blood pressure and warm their hands-all physical responses opposite to those we experience while under stress. Using sensors that pick up this information to feedback moment to moment changes people can see how they are doing and make remarkable changes in their behavior.
Learning how to relax or manage pain doesn't have to be complicated.
Welcome! If you are motivated to decrease stress, pain and anxiety you have come to the right place. I am an occupational therapist with a clinical specialty in biofeedback. I teach people how to quiet their nervous system producing a calming effect. People learn how to relax muscles, breathe slower, lower their heart rate and blood pressure and warm their hands-all physical responses opposite to those we experience while under stress. Using sensors that pick up this information to feedback moment to moment changes people can see how they are doing and make remarkable changes in their behavior.
(973) 828-0538 View (973) 828-0538
Photo of Nicole Mendicino, LCSW, CCTP, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Mendicino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078  (Online Only)
It's nice to meet you! Does your mind ever get the better of you? Are your thoughts so consuming that you can't seem to slow them down? Are you feeling unsettled, tense, or like you've lost yourself? You may be experiencing the unwanted effects of anxiety, chronic pain, or ongoing distress. These can feel debilitating when we do not know what to do with it all. Collaboratively, let's work towards reclaiming the life you truly deserve! To learn more about my practice, please view my website at wholeheartedcnslng.com
It's nice to meet you! Does your mind ever get the better of you? Are your thoughts so consuming that you can't seem to slow them down? Are you feeling unsettled, tense, or like you've lost yourself? You may be experiencing the unwanted effects of anxiety, chronic pain, or ongoing distress. These can feel debilitating when we do not know what to do with it all. Collaboratively, let's work towards reclaiming the life you truly deserve! To learn more about my practice, please view my website at wholeheartedcnslng.com
(973) 671-3048 View (973) 671-3048
Photo of Clair L Goldberg, PsyD, BCN, Psychologist
Clair L Goldberg
Psychologist, PsyD, BCN
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I also offer Neurofeedback for the treatment of developmental trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, medication reduction, and to enhance meditation, performance enhancement, and mindfulness practices.
As a licensed psychologist with over twenty years of clinical experience, I believe that it is never too late to make significant and meaningful changes in our lives. By engaging in a warm therapeutic relationship, I help my clients to better understand their life situations, develop their unique strengths, and move towards living a more emotionally fulfilling and satisfying life. I enjoy a diverse practice, working with young adults and adults with a range of concerns and needs. More specifically, many of my clients struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, postpartum depression, life cycle transitions, and difficulties maintaining an intimate relationship.
I also offer Neurofeedback for the treatment of developmental trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, medication reduction, and to enhance meditation, performance enhancement, and mindfulness practices.
As a licensed psychologist with over twenty years of clinical experience, I believe that it is never too late to make significant and meaningful changes in our lives. By engaging in a warm therapeutic relationship, I help my clients to better understand their life situations, develop their unique strengths, and move towards living a more emotionally fulfilling and satisfying life. I enjoy a diverse practice, working with young adults and adults with a range of concerns and needs. More specifically, many of my clients struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, postpartum depression, life cycle transitions, and difficulties maintaining an intimate relationship.
(862) 621-9433 View (862) 621-9433
Photo of Kathleen Isaac, PhD, Psychologist
Kathleen Isaac
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07102
I specialize in health issues, coping with chronic illness, resiliency, trauma and culturally informed psychotherapy (i.
Life can be challenging and I believe that we are each on our own journey to understand what it means to live a full and meaningful life. My philosophy is that we all can benefit from taking time to care for our mental well-being. I treat the whole person, with an appreciation for how the mind and the body are connected, and an understanding of how culture and society influence our lived experiences.
I specialize in health issues, coping with chronic illness, resiliency, trauma and culturally informed psychotherapy (i.
Life can be challenging and I believe that we are each on our own journey to understand what it means to live a full and meaningful life. My philosophy is that we all can benefit from taking time to care for our mental well-being. I treat the whole person, with an appreciation for how the mind and the body are connected, and an understanding of how culture and society influence our lived experiences.
(516) 701-2587 View (516) 701-2587
Photo of Michelle Barber, LSW
Michelle Barber
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfield, NJ 07004  (Online Only)
I can help you manage anxiety, depression, mood swings, and chronic pain, guiding you towards emotional well-being and resilience.
Are you struggling to find balance in your life while dealing with anxiety, depression, or mood swings? Do you feel overwhelmed by your emotions and need guidance to regain control and peace? Or maybe your relationship with your partner is facing challenges that seem impossible to overcome and you want to improve communication and rebuild a stronger, more fulfilling connection.
I can help you manage anxiety, depression, mood swings, and chronic pain, guiding you towards emotional well-being and resilience.
Are you struggling to find balance in your life while dealing with anxiety, depression, or mood swings? Do you feel overwhelmed by your emotions and need guidance to regain control and peace? Or maybe your relationship with your partner is facing challenges that seem impossible to overcome and you want to improve communication and rebuild a stronger, more fulfilling connection.
(973) 828-0238 View (973) 828-0238
Photo of Andrea Peyser, LCSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Peyser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07043  (Online Only)
I am a capable navigator for those facing chronic illness, pain management and difficult treatment.
I am a mature and long-time clinician. I focus on family issues, parenting crises, divorce/custody, and the problems of older adults. In the past few years, I have become quite comfortable with virtual office treatment. I am warm and engaging and able to establish meaningful rapport. Virtual therapy isn’t comfortable for all but surprisingly it can offer an intensity that is sometimes not easily established in the traditional setting. I am glad to offer assistance with the technology of virtual therapy for those who are less experienced.
I am a capable navigator for those facing chronic illness, pain management and difficult treatment.
I am a mature and long-time clinician. I focus on family issues, parenting crises, divorce/custody, and the problems of older adults. In the past few years, I have become quite comfortable with virtual office treatment. I am warm and engaging and able to establish meaningful rapport. Virtual therapy isn’t comfortable for all but surprisingly it can offer an intensity that is sometimes not easily established in the traditional setting. I am glad to offer assistance with the technology of virtual therapy for those who are less experienced.
(862) 305-3620 View (862) 305-3620
Photo of Suzanne H Berman - Suzanne H. Berman, LCSW, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne H. Berman, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in New Jersey with over twenty years of experience. I have experience working with adults and older adults with depression, anxiety, chronic illness, dementia, and caregiving issues. Additionally, I assist clients coping with grief, life transitions, trauma, family conflict, and in improving communication skills in relationships. I utilize various treatment modalities and tailor treatment to each client's individual needs and goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in New Jersey with over twenty years of experience. I have experience working with adults and older adults with depression, anxiety, chronic illness, dementia, and caregiving issues. Additionally, I assist clients coping with grief, life transitions, trauma, family conflict, and in improving communication skills in relationships. I utilize various treatment modalities and tailor treatment to each client's individual needs and goals.
(862) 305-8375 View (862) 305-8375
Photo of Ann Rasmussen, PsyD, Psychologist
Ann Rasmussen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
With care and clarity, I will help you navigate your life's greatest struggles, empowering you to move beyond whatever patterns are holding you back. Whether it's external (life blows, traumas, betrayals, death, illness) or internal (anxiety, depression, shame, self-sabotage), I approach all with compassionate accepting care. I am not passively silent- I will offer self-empowering techniques, while also coaxing forth your best inner resources. I am LGBTQ affirming. We will create an open, authentic bond through which you can access and honor your own truths, and emerge confident, self-aligned, resourced, and relieved of symptoms.
With care and clarity, I will help you navigate your life's greatest struggles, empowering you to move beyond whatever patterns are holding you back. Whether it's external (life blows, traumas, betrayals, death, illness) or internal (anxiety, depression, shame, self-sabotage), I approach all with compassionate accepting care. I am not passively silent- I will offer self-empowering techniques, while also coaxing forth your best inner resources. I am LGBTQ affirming. We will create an open, authentic bond through which you can access and honor your own truths, and emerge confident, self-aligned, resourced, and relieved of symptoms.
(973) 988-1540 View (973) 988-1540
Photo of Elizabeth Arnone, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Arnone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040  (Online Only)
My experience has been in various medical settings including a major hospital specializing in oncology an in hospice programs with clients coping with acute illness as well as with bereaved loved ones after a loss.
I provide a supportive empathic environment where clients feel safe to explore the complicated emotions that accompany losses whether through death, divorce, or chronic illness. Life losses can be overwhelming and at times result in depression and anxiety however with supportive therapy this grief can be overcome. I work closely with loved ones and caregivers in cases of acute and chronic illness; who may be faced with conflicting emotions and complex decision making.
My experience has been in various medical settings including a major hospital specializing in oncology an in hospice programs with clients coping with acute illness as well as with bereaved loved ones after a loss.
I provide a supportive empathic environment where clients feel safe to explore the complicated emotions that accompany losses whether through death, divorce, or chronic illness. Life losses can be overwhelming and at times result in depression and anxiety however with supportive therapy this grief can be overcome. I work closely with loved ones and caregivers in cases of acute and chronic illness; who may be faced with conflicting emotions and complex decision making.
(201) 928-5116 View (201) 928-5116
Photo of Jackie Burns, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jackie Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Congratulations on taking the first step on your therapy journey! If you're feeling "stuck" and wanting something to change or need support working through life's difficulties, I can help be a guide. I often work with clients who experience high stress (job, caregiving, academic, parenting), unhelpful thoughts, and coping through transitions (medical illness, loss). Together, we'll dedicate time to unravel your thoughts, emotions and experiences so that you can find the best version of yourself. In therapy, you can expect an empathic, safe, non-judgmental environment focused on you and your goals.
Congratulations on taking the first step on your therapy journey! If you're feeling "stuck" and wanting something to change or need support working through life's difficulties, I can help be a guide. I often work with clients who experience high stress (job, caregiving, academic, parenting), unhelpful thoughts, and coping through transitions (medical illness, loss). Together, we'll dedicate time to unravel your thoughts, emotions and experiences so that you can find the best version of yourself. In therapy, you can expect an empathic, safe, non-judgmental environment focused on you and your goals.
(973) 846-9757 View (973) 846-9757
Photo of Timothy Bracaglia, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Timothy Bracaglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Handling complex issues of Sex, Gender, Relationships & Sexuality-related struggles; Anxiety, Stress & Depression; Substance Use & Related Issues... None of these is easy to navigate. Each stressors can be uniquely and incredibly difficult to manage thus causing pain, hopelessness, anxiety, & depression; often seemingly paralyzing. Thankfully, there is help, there is hope. You are not broken and together we can find your path. Please, call ( / leave a VM) or email me today. With my non-judgmental approach my only goal is to help you meet your own personal goals, to achieve your own vision of fulfillment; whatever that may look like.
Handling complex issues of Sex, Gender, Relationships & Sexuality-related struggles; Anxiety, Stress & Depression; Substance Use & Related Issues... None of these is easy to navigate. Each stressors can be uniquely and incredibly difficult to manage thus causing pain, hopelessness, anxiety, & depression; often seemingly paralyzing. Thankfully, there is help, there is hope. You are not broken and together we can find your path. Please, call ( / leave a VM) or email me today. With my non-judgmental approach my only goal is to help you meet your own personal goals, to achieve your own vision of fulfillment; whatever that may look like.
(732) 646-6754 View (732) 646-6754
Photo of Christopher Mills - Music Therapy Montclair (Christopher Mills, MT-BC), MA, MT-BC
At Music Therapy Montclair we specialize in mental health services for all ages, providing evidence-based creative arts interventions for individuals dealing with anxiety or depression, seeking alternatives to more traditional therapies, or in need of additional support. Our services also include therapies for medically complex children, adults and infants, individuals with chronic pain, bereaved children and adults, individuals with developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder or other sensory or communicative challenges, and expectant and new families in need of maternal or perinatal bonding and wellness support.
At Music Therapy Montclair we specialize in mental health services for all ages, providing evidence-based creative arts interventions for individuals dealing with anxiety or depression, seeking alternatives to more traditional therapies, or in need of additional support. Our services also include therapies for medically complex children, adults and infants, individuals with chronic pain, bereaved children and adults, individuals with developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder or other sensory or communicative challenges, and expectant and new families in need of maternal or perinatal bonding and wellness support.
(973) 878-0854 View (973) 878-0854
Photo of Iva Kirzhner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Iva Kirzhner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
My goal is to inspire you to gain insight into confusing and painful areas, find clarity, and alleviate pain.
Life brings challenges to all of us; I understand this on a personal level. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience guiding and advocating for people who suffer from depression, anxiety and personality disorders. I've worked firsthand with terminally ill patients and provided grief counseling to their families.
My goal is to inspire you to gain insight into confusing and painful areas, find clarity, and alleviate pain.
Life brings challenges to all of us; I understand this on a personal level. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience guiding and advocating for people who suffer from depression, anxiety and personality disorders. I've worked firsthand with terminally ill patients and provided grief counseling to their families.
(201) 778-6357 View (201) 778-6357
Photo of Rachel Altounian, MS, LAC
Rachel Altounian
MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07043
You already have everything within you to meet your goals. I am here to help quiet the noise, focus your energy, and support you through the challenges and celebrations that lie ahead. I work collaboratively with my clients to improve self-acceptance, clarify the path you are walking, and cope with the unique difficulties you experience. You deserve to heal and you are not only your pain. We will look at your many parts to empower you to level up and move forward with confidence.
You already have everything within you to meet your goals. I am here to help quiet the noise, focus your energy, and support you through the challenges and celebrations that lie ahead. I work collaboratively with my clients to improve self-acceptance, clarify the path you are walking, and cope with the unique difficulties you experience. You deserve to heal and you are not only your pain. We will look at your many parts to empower you to level up and move forward with confidence.
(973) 553-4259 View (973) 553-4259
Photo of Holly Richmond, PhD, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly Richmond
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
I treat a wide range of clients of all genders and sexual expressions for sexuality and relationship concerns. The foundation of my practice was built working with survivors of sexual assault and abuse, helping them transition into holistic sexual health for themselves, as well as sustaining intimate relationships with others. Today my practice still includes working with survivors, though I also see individuals and couples with issues such as compulsivity with pornography/sex, infidelity, fertility concerns, pain disorders, low desire, nontraditional sexual expression exploration and consensual non-monogamy.
I treat a wide range of clients of all genders and sexual expressions for sexuality and relationship concerns. The foundation of my practice was built working with survivors of sexual assault and abuse, helping them transition into holistic sexual health for themselves, as well as sustaining intimate relationships with others. Today my practice still includes working with survivors, though I also see individuals and couples with issues such as compulsivity with pornography/sex, infidelity, fertility concerns, pain disorders, low desire, nontraditional sexual expression exploration and consensual non-monogamy.
(973) 840-7348 View (973) 840-7348
Esther Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Millburn, NJ 07041  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of specialty include helping parents improve their relationships with their children, coping with medical illness, adjustment disorders, grief, loss, trauma, relationship and dating issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other life stage issues.
I am a licensed and board certified clinical social worker with more than 35 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families in teaching hospitals and in private practice. For over 20 years I was a senior social worker in the Department of Psychiatry at a teaching hospital where I provided therapy, supervised psychiatry residents and social work staff in the child and adult psychiatric clinic. I am a warm, empathic, pragmatic and active therapist with extensive training in a variety of techniques. I use an individualized approach and tailor the therapy to the client, focusing on the client’s strengths.
My areas of specialty include helping parents improve their relationships with their children, coping with medical illness, adjustment disorders, grief, loss, trauma, relationship and dating issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other life stage issues.
I am a licensed and board certified clinical social worker with more than 35 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families in teaching hospitals and in private practice. For over 20 years I was a senior social worker in the Department of Psychiatry at a teaching hospital where I provided therapy, supervised psychiatry residents and social work staff in the child and adult psychiatric clinic. I am a warm, empathic, pragmatic and active therapist with extensive training in a variety of techniques. I use an individualized approach and tailor the therapy to the client, focusing on the client’s strengths.
(973) 566-5565 View (973) 566-5565
Photo of Peter Diskin - Peter Diskin, LCSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peter Diskin, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
If you are struggling with anxiety, feelings of unworthiness, a sense of loss and grief or relationship problems I can help. I have been working successfully with individuals and families for 35 years. Together we will clarify your goals and through our mutual collaboration positive change can occur. If you commit to the process you will make a dramatic shift in your life; (stop repetitive, self-defeating behaviors; start to heal from deeply rooted pain which you may have previously been unable to resolve; learn to actively listen and genuinely hear what your partner, family member, client or boss is saying to you.
If you are struggling with anxiety, feelings of unworthiness, a sense of loss and grief or relationship problems I can help. I have been working successfully with individuals and families for 35 years. Together we will clarify your goals and through our mutual collaboration positive change can occur. If you commit to the process you will make a dramatic shift in your life; (stop repetitive, self-defeating behaviors; start to heal from deeply rooted pain which you may have previously been unable to resolve; learn to actively listen and genuinely hear what your partner, family member, client or boss is saying to you.
(973) 671-8170 View (973) 671-8170
Photo of Kenneth Silvestri, EdD, CCH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kenneth Silvestri
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, CCH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I begin the collaboration with each person seeking my professional counsel by asking, "What is it you're not getting in your life that causes you pain?" Together, we explore the resources that will allow them to heal, change and grow. During the 30 years I have practiced psychotherapy, from a systemic or holistic perspective, I have assisted individuals, parents, couples, adolescents and caregivers to see and experience their lives differently.
I begin the collaboration with each person seeking my professional counsel by asking, "What is it you're not getting in your life that causes you pain?" Together, we explore the resources that will allow them to heal, change and grow. During the 30 years I have practiced psychotherapy, from a systemic or holistic perspective, I have assisted individuals, parents, couples, adolescents and caregivers to see and experience their lives differently.
(973) 928-8552 View (973) 928-8552
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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.