Chronic Pain Therapists in Hopewell, NJ

Photo of Christine Marie Agnese-Etzrodt, PsyD, Psychologist
Christine Marie Agnese-Etzrodt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hopewell, NJ 08525
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, eating disorders, body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness and trauma.
Welcome to finding peace and happiness in your life again. Sometimes it can feel like peace and happiness are out of your grasp, but I am here to remind you that healing is possible for you. We all have times in our lives when we are struggling and need to know that help and support is there for us. Together you and I can find that path for you. I will help you to feel good about yourself and your life. Here you will find a place where you are always accepted.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, eating disorders, body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness and trauma.
Welcome to finding peace and happiness in your life again. Sometimes it can feel like peace and happiness are out of your grasp, but I am here to remind you that healing is possible for you. We all have times in our lives when we are struggling and need to know that help and support is there for us. Together you and I can find that path for you. I will help you to feel good about yourself and your life. Here you will find a place where you are always accepted.
(267) 433-2539 View (267) 433-2539
Photo of Robert Watts, EdS, MA, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert Watts
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hopewell, NJ 08525
Counseling is available for individuals faced with the challenges of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, dual diagnosis, trauma and relationship challenges. Counseling is provided within the warm and professional space at South Main Street Counseling Center in a therapeutic environment which allows individuals to maximize their abilities to create meaningful changes and enhance their independence and peace. Clients are encouraged and supported to explore those issues which are impacting relationships and well being.
Counseling is available for individuals faced with the challenges of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, dual diagnosis, trauma and relationship challenges. Counseling is provided within the warm and professional space at South Main Street Counseling Center in a therapeutic environment which allows individuals to maximize their abilities to create meaningful changes and enhance their independence and peace. Clients are encouraged and supported to explore those issues which are impacting relationships and well being.
(267) 777-8949 View (267) 777-8949
Photo of Louise Doucette - Village Counseling Services, DO, PhD, DrNP, LCSW, LPC
Village Counseling Services
DO, PhD, DrNP, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Hopewell, NJ 08525
Village Counseling Services is a professional group that provides support services to the independently licensed psychologists, psychotherapists and board-certified psychiatrists, who have been providing client-centered, evidence-based treatment to the greater Lawrenceville/Princeton community since 1996.
Village Counseling Services is a professional group that provides support services to the independently licensed psychologists, psychotherapists and board-certified psychiatrists, who have been providing client-centered, evidence-based treatment to the greater Lawrenceville/Princeton community since 1996.
(609) 844-0452 x713 View (609) 844-0452 x713
Photo of Julia A. Little, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia A. Little
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hopewell, NJ 08525  (Online Only)
There are times in life we all need someone to talk to. Whether you struggle with anxiety or depression or are trying to cope with a recent change or loss, no concern is too big to work through together. I will provide a safe, comfortable, private space for you to unload your worries, untangle your conflicts, and plan and dream for your future. Most importantly, I will listen to you, respect you, and care about you. I look forward to hearing your story, and helping you craft the next chapter.
There are times in life we all need someone to talk to. Whether you struggle with anxiety or depression or are trying to cope with a recent change or loss, no concern is too big to work through together. I will provide a safe, comfortable, private space for you to unload your worries, untangle your conflicts, and plan and dream for your future. Most importantly, I will listen to you, respect you, and care about you. I look forward to hearing your story, and helping you craft the next chapter.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Courtney Gable, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Gable
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
My inclusive work focuses on: Helping people to feel regulated and empowered, and to feel seen, safe, and valued for who they are in our process together; those struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety; chronic pain, grief and loss, phobias, racing thoughts, crossroads and upheaval; as well as Body Image, with a specific focus on Body Neutrality and Health At Every Size (HAES) – all with mindfulness, compassion, and acceptance.
My inclusive work focuses on: Helping people to feel regulated and empowered, and to feel seen, safe, and valued for who they are in our process together; those struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety; chronic pain, grief and loss, phobias, racing thoughts, crossroads and upheaval; as well as Body Image, with a specific focus on Body Neutrality and Health At Every Size (HAES) – all with mindfulness, compassion, and acceptance.
(215) 607-6969 View (215) 607-6969
Photo of Lauren M Fussner - Lauren M Fussner, PhD, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Lauren M Fussner, PhD
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
Dr. Fussner is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in working with children with a variety of health challenges and medical conditions such as toileting difficulties (e.g., constipation, frequent accidents), feeding concerns (e.g., selective eating, food allergies), and chronic/persistent pain (e.g., abdominal pain, migraines). Dr. Fussner utilizes a warm and supportive approach to intervention and works collaboratively with families to develop targeted treatment plans promoting improved coping and enhanced quality of life.
Dr. Fussner is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in working with children with a variety of health challenges and medical conditions such as toileting difficulties (e.g., constipation, frequent accidents), feeding concerns (e.g., selective eating, food allergies), and chronic/persistent pain (e.g., abdominal pain, migraines). Dr. Fussner utilizes a warm and supportive approach to intervention and works collaboratively with families to develop targeted treatment plans promoting improved coping and enhanced quality of life.
(215) 709-9374 View (215) 709-9374
Photo of Yauhing Sally Lam, MA, LPC, ACS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yauhing Sally Lam
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08853  (Online Only)
Areas of experience include the treatment of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, pain management, substance use disorders, and marital and career issues.
“Learning from hindsight, gaining insight, and developing foresight” This is the motto I focus on helping my clients to achieve. I’m a compassionate person who genuinely enjoys helping and working with people. I look forward to helping individuals and families who are seeking help coping with a range of psychological, emotional, or behavioral challenges.
Areas of experience include the treatment of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, pain management, substance use disorders, and marital and career issues.
“Learning from hindsight, gaining insight, and developing foresight” This is the motto I focus on helping my clients to achieve. I’m a compassionate person who genuinely enjoys helping and working with people. I look forward to helping individuals and families who are seeking help coping with a range of psychological, emotional, or behavioral challenges.
(732) 243-8939 View (732) 243-8939
Photo of Fidel Loverton - Psychotherapy; Addiction; Psychological Counseling, LCADC, LPC, CRS, FAPA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Psychotherapy; Addiction; Psychological Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC, LPC, CRS, FAPA
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Practices that include modalities with Eclectic theoretical orientation. Counseling everyone regardless of background purely on presenting health issues. Using integrative approach to whole person restoration of functioning. Mindfulness, Cognitive,Logotherapy, Motivational Interviewing. Transfigurative Hypnotherapy is strictly for pain management, sleep disorder, anxiety and relaxation. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). We proudly embrace the ethical values of the APA, AACC, ACA and NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors) that respectively advice counselor to practice within their competencies (training).
Practices that include modalities with Eclectic theoretical orientation. Counseling everyone regardless of background purely on presenting health issues. Using integrative approach to whole person restoration of functioning. Mindfulness, Cognitive,Logotherapy, Motivational Interviewing. Transfigurative Hypnotherapy is strictly for pain management, sleep disorder, anxiety and relaxation. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). We proudly embrace the ethical values of the APA, AACC, ACA and NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors) that respectively advice counselor to practice within their competencies (training).
(732) 983-5313 View (732) 983-5313
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Boswell, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Rebecca Boswell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08542  (Online Only)
I work with children, adolescents, college students, and adults, and completed specialized training in psychological treatment for those with chronic illness and/or eating disorders & weight-related concerns.
People often come to a therapist because they want to talk about being anxious, being lonely, feeling depressed, having difficulty in relationships, feeling stressed and burned out, or having a hard time taking care of themselves and others. I aim to help people to reduce symptoms (e.g., anxiety, pain) and, more generally, to engage in personal growth and to foster a more connected, meaningful life by focusing on mind and body wellness. I will work with you to help you cope more effectively; in doing so, I focus on your strengths and potential.
I work with children, adolescents, college students, and adults, and completed specialized training in psychological treatment for those with chronic illness and/or eating disorders & weight-related concerns.
People often come to a therapist because they want to talk about being anxious, being lonely, feeling depressed, having difficulty in relationships, feeling stressed and burned out, or having a hard time taking care of themselves and others. I aim to help people to reduce symptoms (e.g., anxiety, pain) and, more generally, to engage in personal growth and to foster a more connected, meaningful life by focusing on mind and body wellness. I will work with you to help you cope more effectively; in doing so, I focus on your strengths and potential.
(609) 236-7293 View (609) 236-7293
Photo of Barbara Cole-Kiernan, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Cole-Kiernan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Lambertville, NJ 08530
Are you in transition? Feeling stuck in your life or relationship? Have your usual coping strategies become ineffective, leaving you feeling anxious, fearful, depressed or angry? Do you feel that there must be more to life than what you are presently experiencing? Are you experiencing emotional upheaval that is impacting the quality of your life as a result of critical or chronic illness ?
Are you in transition? Feeling stuck in your life or relationship? Have your usual coping strategies become ineffective, leaving you feeling anxious, fearful, depressed or angry? Do you feel that there must be more to life than what you are presently experiencing? Are you experiencing emotional upheaval that is impacting the quality of your life as a result of critical or chronic illness ?
(609) 643-4498 View (609) 643-4498
Photo of Wendy Miriam Lafollette Wright, LCSW, MSW, PsyAnal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Miriam Lafollette Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, PsyAnal
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
Do you have relational conflicts? I help individuals, couples, and families to improve communications. In life we face challenging times: Loss, divorce, transitions and disappointments. Chronic pain, illness, grief and the loss of a loved one often compel individuals to seek therapy. I also specialize in adolescents and college students assisting them with growth and independence. Many issues occur, such as sexual identity, friendship conflicts, drugs and alcohol as well as academic challenges. Building trust in a safe place, may help you transform and grow. Therapy allows a new awareness of life and love can occur!
Do you have relational conflicts? I help individuals, couples, and families to improve communications. In life we face challenging times: Loss, divorce, transitions and disappointments. Chronic pain, illness, grief and the loss of a loved one often compel individuals to seek therapy. I also specialize in adolescents and college students assisting them with growth and independence. Many issues occur, such as sexual identity, friendship conflicts, drugs and alcohol as well as academic challenges. Building trust in a safe place, may help you transform and grow. Therapy allows a new awareness of life and love can occur!
(609) 964-4952 View (609) 964-4952
Photo of Jacqueline Pidich, LPC, ACS, LPAT, ATR- BC, ATCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacqueline Pidich
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, LPAT, ATR- BC, ATCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
We are living in very different times. Are stress, depression and anxiety eating you alive? Are you feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or lonely, despite all of your attempts at handling life alone? You deserve a break, and you owe it to yourself to try! I can help you with the transitions you face due to Covid, the change in seasons, college and job stress, break ups, divorce, raising kids, coming out as LGBT and, or chronic pain. I get it you may not know where to start. I myself have overcome many life's challenges. Breathe and take a shot! ... Art Therapy and talk therapy can provide a sense of relief, and I am here to support you!
We are living in very different times. Are stress, depression and anxiety eating you alive? Are you feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or lonely, despite all of your attempts at handling life alone? You deserve a break, and you owe it to yourself to try! I can help you with the transitions you face due to Covid, the change in seasons, college and job stress, break ups, divorce, raising kids, coming out as LGBT and, or chronic pain. I get it you may not know where to start. I myself have overcome many life's challenges. Breathe and take a shot! ... Art Therapy and talk therapy can provide a sense of relief, and I am here to support you!
(609) 436-9416 View (609) 436-9416
Photo of Sandra R Yarock, PsyD, Psychologist
Sandra R Yarock
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
starting/ending college/careers, transgender/sexuality, marriage/divorce, grief/loss, chronic pain/ illness, eating issues).
I believe that my work for 35+ years with so many different people has helped me to continuously evolve into a more fluid and compassionate healer. I use my mind, heart, intuition and experience to help decrease the emotional distress in those seeking my help. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or emotional overwhelm, I will do my best to help you to grow into the best version of yourself. I continue to learn the most effective ways to help those w grief , trauma, gender dysphoria, etc. I work closely with people to create a therapeutic environment that fosters growth, safety, patience and mutual trust.
starting/ending college/careers, transgender/sexuality, marriage/divorce, grief/loss, chronic pain/ illness, eating issues).
I believe that my work for 35+ years with so many different people has helped me to continuously evolve into a more fluid and compassionate healer. I use my mind, heart, intuition and experience to help decrease the emotional distress in those seeking my help. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or emotional overwhelm, I will do my best to help you to grow into the best version of yourself. I continue to learn the most effective ways to help those w grief , trauma, gender dysphoria, etc. I work closely with people to create a therapeutic environment that fosters growth, safety, patience and mutual trust.
(609) 778-4728 View (609) 778-4728
Photo of Stephen E Horgan - Horgan & Saling Counseling Services LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Horgan & Saling Counseling Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I have extensive experience working with: Depression and anxiety, addictions, relationship difficulties, sexual issues, adults with stressful life-circumstances, those coping with aging family members, survivors of childhood abuse, veterans, rescue workers, medical trauma survivors and those living with a debilitating or terminal illness.
Are you not feeling or functioning the way you used to? Are you having trouble explaining what you're feeling to others? Has someone told you that you could use some help and support? I am helpful with the process of entering therapy because I respect the significance of that decision and see it as an opportunity for positive change.
I have extensive experience working with: Depression and anxiety, addictions, relationship difficulties, sexual issues, adults with stressful life-circumstances, those coping with aging family members, survivors of childhood abuse, veterans, rescue workers, medical trauma survivors and those living with a debilitating or terminal illness.
Are you not feeling or functioning the way you used to? Are you having trouble explaining what you're feeling to others? Has someone told you that you could use some help and support? I am helpful with the process of entering therapy because I respect the significance of that decision and see it as an opportunity for positive change.
(201) 870-4087 View (201) 870-4087
Photo of Michael L Raskind - Serenity Psychotherapy LLC, LCSW
Serenity Psychotherapy LLC
LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with. Our Intake specialist will help
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with. Our Intake specialist will help
(856) 672-7142 View (856) 672-7142
Photo of Tracey L Post - The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
We specialize in treating depression and anxiety; addiction; issues with sexuality; chronic health issues and pain; familial, romantic, and other interpersonal relationships; and intersectionally aware, trauma-informed care for marginalized people— with special attention given to individuals belonging to the BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and survivor communities.
The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing prioritizes holistic healing and walking with you to grow your best self: mind, body and soul. Our clinicians work on a wide range of issues with a wide range of therapeutic techniques, self-care tools and clinical styles. We offer traditional and non-traditional outpatient services for individuals, couples, and families of all forms and fashions including office and nature sessions, walking sessions, video, text and telephone. We believe in affirming & celebrating all people for who you truly are.
We specialize in treating depression and anxiety; addiction; issues with sexuality; chronic health issues and pain; familial, romantic, and other interpersonal relationships; and intersectionally aware, trauma-informed care for marginalized people— with special attention given to individuals belonging to the BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and survivor communities.
The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing prioritizes holistic healing and walking with you to grow your best self: mind, body and soul. Our clinicians work on a wide range of issues with a wide range of therapeutic techniques, self-care tools and clinical styles. We offer traditional and non-traditional outpatient services for individuals, couples, and families of all forms and fashions including office and nature sessions, walking sessions, video, text and telephone. We believe in affirming & celebrating all people for who you truly are.
(609) 745-0676 View (609) 745-0676
Photo of Danna Drori, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danna Drori
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I approach my clients from a place of empathy and compassion for the issues that have led them to seek support. In a safe and non-judgmental way, I seek to partner with clients to work through their challenges, help them to develop better understandings of themselves, and empower them to make decisions. I can also help clients to understand how past experiences and relationships may inform and influence the present. I work with individuals around anxiety and depression, chronic illness, coping with grief and loss, parenting and reproductive issues, and a variety of other concerns and challenges that arise in our everyday lives.
I approach my clients from a place of empathy and compassion for the issues that have led them to seek support. In a safe and non-judgmental way, I seek to partner with clients to work through their challenges, help them to develop better understandings of themselves, and empower them to make decisions. I can also help clients to understand how past experiences and relationships may inform and influence the present. I work with individuals around anxiety and depression, chronic illness, coping with grief and loss, parenting and reproductive issues, and a variety of other concerns and challenges that arise in our everyday lives.
(609) 757-8114 View (609) 757-8114
Photo of Dr. Dana Lebo, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Dana Lebo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08543  (Online Only)
Are you looking for support to master life's challenges, break free of ineffective patterns of behavior & improve your mental health & well-being? With over two decades of experience, I am passionate about helping individuals enhance their performance & better manage anxiety, life transitions, trauma, depression, pain, sleep, and more. My approach to therapy is grounded in mind-body, non-pharmacological techniques for dealing with the complexities & stress of busy home, school, work, sports & family lives. Additionally, I am credentialed to practice teletherapy in 36 states listed on the PsyPact Map at psypact.org under Quick Links.
Are you looking for support to master life's challenges, break free of ineffective patterns of behavior & improve your mental health & well-being? With over two decades of experience, I am passionate about helping individuals enhance their performance & better manage anxiety, life transitions, trauma, depression, pain, sleep, and more. My approach to therapy is grounded in mind-body, non-pharmacological techniques for dealing with the complexities & stress of busy home, school, work, sports & family lives. Additionally, I am credentialed to practice teletherapy in 36 states listed on the PsyPact Map at psypact.org under Quick Links.
(919) 276-8758 View (919) 276-8758
Photo of Sara Lewis, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ewing, NJ 08560  (Online Only)
I specialize in fostering healthy relationships and communication, anxiety, depression, life transitions, chronic illness, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and LGBTQIA+.
I am a LCSW and certified School SW with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. The decision to ask for help takes courage and can be intimidating. My goal is to provide you with a safe, compassionate and accepting environment for you to comfortably share your thoughts and feelings. I will consistently engage and encourage you to do your best as we work together to develop your treatment plan and identify the important issues that have brought you to therapy.
I specialize in fostering healthy relationships and communication, anxiety, depression, life transitions, chronic illness, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and LGBTQIA+.
I am a LCSW and certified School SW with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. The decision to ask for help takes courage and can be intimidating. My goal is to provide you with a safe, compassionate and accepting environment for you to comfortably share your thoughts and feelings. I will consistently engage and encourage you to do your best as we work together to develop your treatment plan and identify the important issues that have brought you to therapy.
(732) 838-9014 View (732) 838-9014
Photo of Norbert A Wetzel, ThD, MFT, licphi, Psychologist
Norbert A Wetzel
Psychologist, ThD, MFT, licphi
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I am assisting couples (of any ethnic or racial background, gender identity, or sexual orientation) to preserve intimacy and satisfaction during a lifetime together, even after infidelity; I am assisting families to weather the storms of adolescence and to maintain familial closeness; I am accompanying people diagnosed with "mental illness" or addiction on their journey back to wholeness and well being. I welcoming victims of trauma and racial oppression. I am available for phone consultations before or between sessions. I do assessments for immigration and prison release purposes and serve as expert in complex custody trials.
I am assisting couples (of any ethnic or racial background, gender identity, or sexual orientation) to preserve intimacy and satisfaction during a lifetime together, even after infidelity; I am assisting families to weather the storms of adolescence and to maintain familial closeness; I am accompanying people diagnosed with "mental illness" or addiction on their journey back to wholeness and well being. I welcoming victims of trauma and racial oppression. I am available for phone consultations before or between sessions. I do assessments for immigration and prison release purposes and serve as expert in complex custody trials.
(609) 277-3225 x2 View (609) 277-3225 x2
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.