Chronic Pain Therapists in Matawan, NJ
![Photo of Jill Stein - Toms River Center for Marriage and Family Therapy, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d70610b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Toms River Center for Marriage and Family Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747
The Center for Marriage and Family Therapy has five offices throughout central New Jersey. Jackie Held, Karen Spiler and Jill Stein founded the Center in 1984. We refer to a large network of affiliated therapists whose specialties include relationship counseling, anxiety, depression, separation and divorce, gay and lesbian issues,grief therapy,stress management, victims of spousal abuse, chronic and terminal illness and dealing with life stage transitions. In addition to Toms River, our offices are in Matawan, Freehold, Piscataway and Princeton. Our network includes licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers and substance abuse specialists.
The Center for Marriage and Family Therapy has five offices throughout central New Jersey. Jackie Held, Karen Spiler and Jill Stein founded the Center in 1984. We refer to a large network of affiliated therapists whose specialties include relationship counseling, anxiety, depression, separation and divorce, gay and lesbian issues,grief therapy,stress management, victims of spousal abuse, chronic and terminal illness and dealing with life stage transitions. In addition to Toms River, our offices are in Matawan, Freehold, Piscataway and Princeton. Our network includes licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers and substance abuse specialists.
![Photo of Antoniette Richburg - The Visiting Counselor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db6d4abd-5585-4298-9b8a-c84fc60da39d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am well versed in the unique needs of the aged, chronic illness and end of life concerns.
Whats unique about The Visiting Counselor (TVC) is that I am mobile. I meet the clients in their homes where they are most comfortable and feel the most secure. I also deliver counseling and psychotherapy with compassion and understanding of the person as a whole. I am able to address a wide range of issues from the everyday stresses of life to more complex chronic issues of the mind or the body.
I am well versed in the unique needs of the aged, chronic illness and end of life concerns.
Whats unique about The Visiting Counselor (TVC) is that I am mobile. I meet the clients in their homes where they are most comfortable and feel the most secure. I also deliver counseling and psychotherapy with compassion and understanding of the person as a whole. I am able to address a wide range of issues from the everyday stresses of life to more complex chronic issues of the mind or the body.
![Photo of James Fennessy, MA, MSW, JD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f90f80c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
James Fennessy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747
I have a background which includes many years of Post-Graduate education, knowledge and experience providing mental health care to those who need help dealing with a wide range of mental health issues or concerns. Whether you desire improved and better quality relationships, need help with feelings, with issues of daily life, or with reaching your goals, I can help you gain emotional health - the ability to love, work and play as you wish.
I have a background which includes many years of Post-Graduate education, knowledge and experience providing mental health care to those who need help dealing with a wide range of mental health issues or concerns. Whether you desire improved and better quality relationships, need help with feelings, with issues of daily life, or with reaching your goals, I can help you gain emotional health - the ability to love, work and play as you wish.
![Photo of Daniel Chabarek, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d12a554-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you suffer from a Mental Health and/or Substance Abuse Problem (drug and/or alcohol) Experience working with all ages and populations. Providing Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy. I am also SAP certified (Substance Abuse Professional). My approaches and therapy is designed to be a short-term utilizing a variety of concrete techniques that help achieve your goals and are tailored towards you. Progress is a step by step process, but the ultimate goal is to help you resolve difficulties as quickly as possible. Contact me to help you learn the past, live the present, and dream the future.
Do you suffer from a Mental Health and/or Substance Abuse Problem (drug and/or alcohol) Experience working with all ages and populations. Providing Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy. I am also SAP certified (Substance Abuse Professional). My approaches and therapy is designed to be a short-term utilizing a variety of concrete techniques that help achieve your goals and are tailored towards you. Progress is a step by step process, but the ultimate goal is to help you resolve difficulties as quickly as possible. Contact me to help you learn the past, live the present, and dream the future.
![Photo of Deirdre Bernaz, MSW, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e034b109-8e3b-4292-88ee-a6e9c6bcfef4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Licensed Social Worker committed to providing services for empowering the lives of those affected by mental health and/or substance use disorders. My primary focus includes trauma-informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, acceptance commitment therapy ACT, mindfulness-based practice modalities, crisis intervention strategies, to name a few. I have experience working with various populations and levels of care including but not limited to co-occurring adult, adolescent populations and those with criminal justice involvement (ISP, Parole, Recovery Court, FED, Probation, IDRC).
Licensed Social Worker committed to providing services for empowering the lives of those affected by mental health and/or substance use disorders. My primary focus includes trauma-informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, acceptance commitment therapy ACT, mindfulness-based practice modalities, crisis intervention strategies, to name a few. I have experience working with various populations and levels of care including but not limited to co-occurring adult, adolescent populations and those with criminal justice involvement (ISP, Parole, Recovery Court, FED, Probation, IDRC).
![Photo of Meredith Futernick-Gerak, LPC, ACS, C-PAT, C-BSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad7b0491-105b-4234-a0d7-748bd6297a01/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meredith Futernick-Gerak
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, C-PAT, C-BSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747
Ready to try something different? You've tried traditional talk therapy and have felt better, but still find yourself feeling stuck in the same thought patterns or going back to old behaviors. I help adolescents and overwhelmed adults process complex trauma using brain-body and alternative therapies. Complex trauma refers to "little t" traumas that compound throughout our life- from difficult childhood experiences to stressful life events. I especially enjoy working with adult children of emotionally immature parents.
Ready to try something different? You've tried traditional talk therapy and have felt better, but still find yourself feeling stuck in the same thought patterns or going back to old behaviors. I help adolescents and overwhelmed adults process complex trauma using brain-body and alternative therapies. Complex trauma refers to "little t" traumas that compound throughout our life- from difficult childhood experiences to stressful life events. I especially enjoy working with adult children of emotionally immature parents.
![Photo of Jacalyn Held - Center for Marriage and Family Therapy, P.C.](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be1238a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Center For Marriage and Family Therapy has five offices throughout central New Jersey. Jackie Held, Karen Spiler and Jill Stein founded the Center in 1984. We refer to a large network of affiliated therapists whose specialties include relationship counseling, anxiety, depression, separation and divorce, gay and lesbian issues, child and adolescent therapy, grief therapy, sex therapy and substance abuse. Our offices are in Matawan, Freehold, Princeton, Toms River and Piscataway. Our network includes licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers, substance abuse specialists, child and adolescent specialists and sex therapists.
The Center For Marriage and Family Therapy has five offices throughout central New Jersey. Jackie Held, Karen Spiler and Jill Stein founded the Center in 1984. We refer to a large network of affiliated therapists whose specialties include relationship counseling, anxiety, depression, separation and divorce, gay and lesbian issues, child and adolescent therapy, grief therapy, sex therapy and substance abuse. Our offices are in Matawan, Freehold, Princeton, Toms River and Piscataway. Our network includes licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers, substance abuse specialists, child and adolescent specialists and sex therapists.
![Photo of Pat Smith, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e433ef-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe whatever problem you may be facing is solvable. I am passionate about helping people and I have been doing it for over 35 yrs. I have worked in private practice, inpatient and outpatient settings. I have experience in the most relevant evidenced based/best practices (cbt, dbt, MI, 12 Step/Harm Reduction, trauma informed, mindfulness ) One size does not fit all! I am compassionate, kind and non judgemental with a strong desire to help people achieve a life worth living. I provide a safe place and am committed to having an open and affirming practice for people of all races, religions, genders and sexualities.
I believe whatever problem you may be facing is solvable. I am passionate about helping people and I have been doing it for over 35 yrs. I have worked in private practice, inpatient and outpatient settings. I have experience in the most relevant evidenced based/best practices (cbt, dbt, MI, 12 Step/Harm Reduction, trauma informed, mindfulness ) One size does not fit all! I am compassionate, kind and non judgemental with a strong desire to help people achieve a life worth living. I provide a safe place and am committed to having an open and affirming practice for people of all races, religions, genders and sexualities.
![Photo of Edward Merski, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f043f4a-8ef5-4a15-b645-e2b20a860c64/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been a clinical psychologist for the past 35 years and have treated thousands of patients in a supportive and caring milieu. I employ a comprehensive, efficient and flexible approach with widely varying problems and circumstances. My approach integrates cognitive, behavioral, interpersonal, sensory, imagery and biological modalities.
I have been a clinical psychologist for the past 35 years and have treated thousands of patients in a supportive and caring milieu. I employ a comprehensive, efficient and flexible approach with widely varying problems and circumstances. My approach integrates cognitive, behavioral, interpersonal, sensory, imagery and biological modalities.
![Photo of Nicole Rachel Wegweiser - Mindful Therapy of Monmouth County LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/601fe61a-466a-44b9-9666-48488195daf0/4/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Therapy of Monmouth County LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747
Life can be challenging and we all have our ups and downs. At times, it can be difficult to move past what is getting in our way of our happiness in order to be our true selves. There is nothing like having an objective outsider that can truly listen in a non-judgmental way, help you to reflect on the situation and factors that may be contributing, and together come up with strategies which can allow you to move forward in a more thoughtful and meaningful way. I am here to be that person for you.
Life can be challenging and we all have our ups and downs. At times, it can be difficult to move past what is getting in our way of our happiness in order to be our true selves. There is nothing like having an objective outsider that can truly listen in a non-judgmental way, help you to reflect on the situation and factors that may be contributing, and together come up with strategies which can allow you to move forward in a more thoughtful and meaningful way. I am here to be that person for you.
![Photo of Rebecca Sidoti, LCSW, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea34f06c-ddcf-4e0b-80b0-01395d908e58/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Sidoti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747 (Online Only)
A common trait among my clients seems to be a fierce desire to improve their lives & take back control. Many clients have tried therapy for OCD, phobias or anxiety, & may feel discouraged with the lack of progress. Let's use that frustration to energize & guide positive change! OCD, phobias & anxiety can be overcome, I've seen it happen! Don't let anxiety & stress run the show. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, honoring your experience & inner wisdom as our guide for growth. Together, we'll reclaim your power through traditional or unconventional therapy, like VR Therapy, Ketamine Therapy or Creative Art Therapy.
A common trait among my clients seems to be a fierce desire to improve their lives & take back control. Many clients have tried therapy for OCD, phobias or anxiety, & may feel discouraged with the lack of progress. Let's use that frustration to energize & guide positive change! OCD, phobias & anxiety can be overcome, I've seen it happen! Don't let anxiety & stress run the show. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, honoring your experience & inner wisdom as our guide for growth. Together, we'll reclaim your power through traditional or unconventional therapy, like VR Therapy, Ketamine Therapy or Creative Art Therapy.
15 Second Videos
The Visiting Counselor
Meredith Futernick-Gerak
Rebecca Sidoti
![Photo of Karen Zimmerman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc070db-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping people. I have over 25 years experience working with individuals, couples, children and adolescents. My warm and friendly style puts clients at ease so they can feel free to address any issue that brings them to counseling.
I am passionate about helping people. I have over 25 years experience working with individuals, couples, children and adolescents. My warm and friendly style puts clients at ease so they can feel free to address any issue that brings them to counseling.
![Photo of Lorraine Durrett, MSW, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/373f6cdf-ce28-4693-b7a5-458d7d309e58/1/320x400.jpeg)
*Morning, evening and weekend appointments are available.* Are you feeling anxious, depressed and overwhelmed? Do you and your spouse/partner have difficulty communicating with each other? Does trying to balance, work, marriage, family and, dare I say, time for yourself seem overwhelming? If so then it is time to take care of you and find your happiness. This is the first step in being able to do so. I will work with you in a supportive and safe environment to help you to manage life stressors more effectively. Together we explore your concerns and develop a plan that will meet your needs. You no longer have to struggle alone.
*Morning, evening and weekend appointments are available.* Are you feeling anxious, depressed and overwhelmed? Do you and your spouse/partner have difficulty communicating with each other? Does trying to balance, work, marriage, family and, dare I say, time for yourself seem overwhelming? If so then it is time to take care of you and find your happiness. This is the first step in being able to do so. I will work with you in a supportive and safe environment to help you to manage life stressors more effectively. Together we explore your concerns and develop a plan that will meet your needs. You no longer have to struggle alone.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Margaret H Chan, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54d83f1d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Short-term psychodynamic therapy in the area of Health Psychology including: Chronic pain management, Tension Myoneural Syndrome (TMS), Fibromyalgia, Lower Back, Neck and Shoulder Pain.
I treat chronic pain using Dr. John Sarno's work on Tension Myoneural Syndrome. TMS is due to unconscious repressed rage and conflicts developed during childhood. I deeply respect the human ability to surpass anger and strive to live life in a fuller capacity. I was trained under Dr. Arlene Feinblatt who had been the primary psychologist for Dr. Sarno since 1973 to do TMS treatment. I work alongside with a TMS physician, Dr. Paul Gwozdz at the Family Practice in Somerset, New Jersey. Together we help patients cope with chronic pain following Dr. Sarno's techniques.
Short-term psychodynamic therapy in the area of Health Psychology including: Chronic pain management, Tension Myoneural Syndrome (TMS), Fibromyalgia, Lower Back, Neck and Shoulder Pain.
I treat chronic pain using Dr. John Sarno's work on Tension Myoneural Syndrome. TMS is due to unconscious repressed rage and conflicts developed during childhood. I deeply respect the human ability to surpass anger and strive to live life in a fuller capacity. I was trained under Dr. Arlene Feinblatt who had been the primary psychologist for Dr. Sarno since 1973 to do TMS treatment. I work alongside with a TMS physician, Dr. Paul Gwozdz at the Family Practice in Somerset, New Jersey. Together we help patients cope with chronic pain following Dr. Sarno's techniques.
![Photo of Coleen Markey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/406bf9b5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adults facing relationship difficulties, stressors of daily living, anxiety, depression, grief chronic pain, chronic health issues, and terminal illness.
Life shapes us all. I help adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger and their limiting beliefs that keep them stuck, to gain meaning and understanding of their life stories by learning to gain clarity of how life shaped them, to shift their internal beliefs and life so they can live from their essence and experience healing, joy, fulfillment and peace. My ideal client is he or she who has courage to go within to do the internal emotional healing work, is self-motivated, ready to make lasting change and is active in the therapy process.
Adults facing relationship difficulties, stressors of daily living, anxiety, depression, grief chronic pain, chronic health issues, and terminal illness.
Life shapes us all. I help adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger and their limiting beliefs that keep them stuck, to gain meaning and understanding of their life stories by learning to gain clarity of how life shaped them, to shift their internal beliefs and life so they can live from their essence and experience healing, joy, fulfillment and peace. My ideal client is he or she who has courage to go within to do the internal emotional healing work, is self-motivated, ready to make lasting change and is active in the therapy process.
![Photo of Leah Kremer, CHT, MSNH, REV, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c66391e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
The purpose of hypnosis as a therapeutic technique is to help you understand and gain more control over your behavior, emotions or physical well-being. I been successfully helping people for 20 years to overcome anxiety, pain, and addictions. Hypnotherapy is helpful to improve your performances and to have a better life.
The purpose of hypnosis as a therapeutic technique is to help you understand and gain more control over your behavior, emotions or physical well-being. I been successfully helping people for 20 years to overcome anxiety, pain, and addictions. Hypnotherapy is helpful to improve your performances and to have a better life.
![Photo of Ada Zak - Hypnotherapy Advantage, CCHt](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f8272fc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I help clients with stress reduction, improve sleep, overcome anxiety/depression, confidence building, manage pain, overcome fears/ phobias, anger management, grief / loss, academic / athletic performance.
Do you feel stressed or anxious all the time? Are you struggling with Chronic Diseases - Autoimmune, Pain, Depression, etc. Is Addiction ruling your life? I am a caring Certified Hypnotist, Addiction Relapse Prevention Specialist, and a licensed health professional who utilizes the latest research in neuroplasticity that supports brain's ability to change at any age. The lasting change in habits / behavior is created by building new neural pathways while rewiring/replacing old patterns that caused unwanted habits or addiction/relapse. Please call for more information at 732-333-6680 and/or visit www.HypnotherapyAdvantage.com
I help clients with stress reduction, improve sleep, overcome anxiety/depression, confidence building, manage pain, overcome fears/ phobias, anger management, grief / loss, academic / athletic performance.
Do you feel stressed or anxious all the time? Are you struggling with Chronic Diseases - Autoimmune, Pain, Depression, etc. Is Addiction ruling your life? I am a caring Certified Hypnotist, Addiction Relapse Prevention Specialist, and a licensed health professional who utilizes the latest research in neuroplasticity that supports brain's ability to change at any age. The lasting change in habits / behavior is created by building new neural pathways while rewiring/replacing old patterns that caused unwanted habits or addiction/relapse. Please call for more information at 732-333-6680 and/or visit www.HypnotherapyAdvantage.com
![Photo of Vanessa Marcantuono - Vanessa Marcantuono, PhD, LLC, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/400a8c18-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with the elderly, their caregivers, and individuals with physical illness or disability, as well as helping individuals facing challenges or emotional struggles common at pivotal times in life such as marriage, job change/retirement, having/raising children, relationship stress, divorce, death of a loved one, or balancing multiple roles.
I'm a Counseling Psychologist with over 20 years experience working with adults struggling with a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, low self-esteem and adjustment to life's stressors. My goal is to help you cope with the stressors you are facing, and to gradually help you gain insight and understanding regarding them, so that together, we may resolve your issues and identify possible avenues for growth and change. I offer a personalized and collaborative approach to treatment that is tailored to the specific needs of each of my clients.
I specialize in working with the elderly, their caregivers, and individuals with physical illness or disability, as well as helping individuals facing challenges or emotional struggles common at pivotal times in life such as marriage, job change/retirement, having/raising children, relationship stress, divorce, death of a loved one, or balancing multiple roles.
I'm a Counseling Psychologist with over 20 years experience working with adults struggling with a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, low self-esteem and adjustment to life's stressors. My goal is to help you cope with the stressors you are facing, and to gradually help you gain insight and understanding regarding them, so that together, we may resolve your issues and identify possible avenues for growth and change. I offer a personalized and collaborative approach to treatment that is tailored to the specific needs of each of my clients.
![Photo of Nancy A. Valentino - Nancy A. Valentino MSW, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb92eab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/7/320x400.jpeg)
Nancy A. Valentino MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marlboro, NJ 07746
In Person Therapy Available. I have over twenty years of experience working with individuals, couples, families and groups. Whether issues relate to life stressors, relationships, substance abuse, psychiatric illness, or a combination of these difficulties, I can help clients to identify their problems and explore solutions. My goal is to empower my clients through education, to help them learn and utilize skills to assess their problems, identify strategies that have and have not worked in the past, and implement change in both thoughts and actions. Clients carry these skills far beyond the therapeutic relationship.
In Person Therapy Available. I have over twenty years of experience working with individuals, couples, families and groups. Whether issues relate to life stressors, relationships, substance abuse, psychiatric illness, or a combination of these difficulties, I can help clients to identify their problems and explore solutions. My goal is to empower my clients through education, to help them learn and utilize skills to assess their problems, identify strategies that have and have not worked in the past, and implement change in both thoughts and actions. Clients carry these skills far beyond the therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Marie E Chece, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eb58c95-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
With extensive experience assisting people at every stage in life, my therapeutic approach will provide support and practical feedback to help you effectively address personal life challenges. I have extensive post graduate experience in the treatment of children and families impacted by abuse, neglect and other significant traumatic events such as divorce, death, chronic illness or substance abuse. I integrate complementary methodologies to offer a personalized approach. With compassion and understanding, I will work with you to help build on your strengths and attain the personal growth you and/or your family are committed to accomplishing.
With extensive experience assisting people at every stage in life, my therapeutic approach will provide support and practical feedback to help you effectively address personal life challenges. I have extensive post graduate experience in the treatment of children and families impacted by abuse, neglect and other significant traumatic events such as divorce, death, chronic illness or substance abuse. I integrate complementary methodologies to offer a personalized approach. With compassion and understanding, I will work with you to help build on your strengths and attain the personal growth you and/or your family are committed to accomplishing.
See more therapy options for Matawan
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Matawan
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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.