Chronic Pain Therapists in Ottawa County, OH

Photo of Nicki A Sherman - Co-Pilot Counseling, LLC, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC-S, Counselor
Co-Pilot Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC-S
Verified Verified
Oak Harbor, OH 43449
At Co-Pilot Counseling, we believe healing is possible from: depression, anger, anxiety, grief, abuse/trauma, adoption/attachment issues, and all types of addiction. Nicki Sherman founded Co-Pilot in 2003 and today we are a group of experienced counselors who are in-network with most commercial insurances, Ohio medicaid, and EAP companies. We schedule your first appointment asap, offer evening sessions, and file insurance claims for you. As clinical supervisor, Nicki ensures that all counselors provide quality care close to home.
At Co-Pilot Counseling, we believe healing is possible from: depression, anger, anxiety, grief, abuse/trauma, adoption/attachment issues, and all types of addiction. Nicki Sherman founded Co-Pilot in 2003 and today we are a group of experienced counselors who are in-network with most commercial insurances, Ohio medicaid, and EAP companies. We schedule your first appointment asap, offer evening sessions, and file insurance claims for you. As clinical supervisor, Nicki ensures that all counselors provide quality care close to home.
(419) 492-8673 View (419) 492-8673
Photo of Nichole Nitschke - Nichole Nitschke, LPCC
Nichole Nitschke
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Genoa, OH 43430
Whether you want to feel better, sleep better, think and focus better, communicate better, have a better connection with people, it all comes down to living a better life. I help people to achieve any goal, whether it's using hypnosis to kick a bad habit, such as smoking or overeating; or changing negative beliefs, such as not being good enough; or tending to grief and loss by obtaining closure, insight or a deeper understanding of why something ended the way it did, or learning meditation and mindfulness to assist with reaching their full potential. I create a customized approach that suits each client's individual preferences.
Whether you want to feel better, sleep better, think and focus better, communicate better, have a better connection with people, it all comes down to living a better life. I help people to achieve any goal, whether it's using hypnosis to kick a bad habit, such as smoking or overeating; or changing negative beliefs, such as not being good enough; or tending to grief and loss by obtaining closure, insight or a deeper understanding of why something ended the way it did, or learning meditation and mindfulness to assist with reaching their full potential. I create a customized approach that suits each client's individual preferences.
(419) 780-6697 View (419) 780-6697

Online Therapists

Photo of Wilma Mast, LPCC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wilma Mast
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Millersburg, OH 44654  (Online Only)
Having coped with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and PTSD throughout my life, counseling is not just a profession for me; it is an opportunity to share the skills that I use every day. My personal journey with mental health challenges gives me empathy and understanding, enriching my ability to connect with others who are struggling. Whether you are dealing with ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, religious trauma or LGBTQ+ issues, I am here to support you in your journey towards healing and personal development.
Having coped with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and PTSD throughout my life, counseling is not just a profession for me; it is an opportunity to share the skills that I use every day. My personal journey with mental health challenges gives me empathy and understanding, enriching my ability to connect with others who are struggling. Whether you are dealing with ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, religious trauma or LGBTQ+ issues, I am here to support you in your journey towards healing and personal development.
(330) 859-6597 View (330) 859-6597
Photo of Elizabeth Brodhag, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Brodhag
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maumee, OH 43537  (Online Only)
I provide telehealth services to clients experiencing depression, anxiety, infertility, pregnancy/infant loss, perinatal mood disorders, and chronic illness.
Hey there. Riding the wave of life is not meant to be done alone. I have always been passionate about helping others process their emotional needs and the inevitable ups and downs we all will face in our lives.
I provide telehealth services to clients experiencing depression, anxiety, infertility, pregnancy/infant loss, perinatal mood disorders, and chronic illness.
Hey there. Riding the wave of life is not meant to be done alone. I have always been passionate about helping others process their emotional needs and the inevitable ups and downs we all will face in our lives.
(419) 614-6133 View (419) 614-6133
Photo of Krystal Drake, PhD, Psychologist
Krystal Drake
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
She has also received advanced training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for chronic pain.
Dr. Krystal Drake is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience working with individuals across the life span. She received her MA and PhD in clinical psychology from the University of Cincinnati and BS in psychology from Howard University. Throughout her training and career, she has worked in a variety of settings including inpatient physical rehabilitation centers, hospitals, community mental health, college counseling center, youth residential treatment facilities, and long-term care facilities.
She has also received advanced training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for chronic pain.
Dr. Krystal Drake is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience working with individuals across the life span. She received her MA and PhD in clinical psychology from the University of Cincinnati and BS in psychology from Howard University. Throughout her training and career, she has worked in a variety of settings including inpatient physical rehabilitation centers, hospitals, community mental health, college counseling center, youth residential treatment facilities, and long-term care facilities.
(216) 677-0898 View (216) 677-0898
Photo of Melissa Seeley, MSSA, LISW, SAP, CFRC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Seeley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW, SAP, CFRC
Verified Verified
Richfield, OH 44286
My time spent in healthcare allowed me to serve clients dealing with trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness, mental health issues, and adjustment issues.
Many people come to a counselor not knowing what to expect. The hardest part about coming to counseling is being willing to open up to an outside person about your most significant struggles and stressors in life. Opening up to a counselor means getting unbiased support and feedback to empower you to make the best decisions for yourself and/or your family. I aim to foster your healing, grow your self-confidence, and improve your self-image.
My time spent in healthcare allowed me to serve clients dealing with trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness, mental health issues, and adjustment issues.
Many people come to a counselor not knowing what to expect. The hardest part about coming to counseling is being willing to open up to an outside person about your most significant struggles and stressors in life. Opening up to a counselor means getting unbiased support and feedback to empower you to make the best decisions for yourself and/or your family. I aim to foster your healing, grow your self-confidence, and improve your self-image.
(440) 379-8361 View (440) 379-8361
Photo of Emily Caldwell, CT, Counselor
Emily Caldwell
Counselor, CT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
Art therapy provides a great outlet to process emotional pain, and helps people to develop effective coping skills.
Are you looking for help for your child? Or are you suffering from the stress of pregnancy or the heaviness of postpartum issues? Or are you carrying the weight of grief and loss? Know that there is great relief and healing found through the use of art therapy. In fact, art therapy approaches can bring noticeable improvement in a handful of sessions. Also, art therapy is for anyone! You don't have to have experience or talent in this area to benefit from the interventions I offer.
Art therapy provides a great outlet to process emotional pain, and helps people to develop effective coping skills.
Are you looking for help for your child? Or are you suffering from the stress of pregnancy or the heaviness of postpartum issues? Or are you carrying the weight of grief and loss? Know that there is great relief and healing found through the use of art therapy. In fact, art therapy approaches can bring noticeable improvement in a handful of sessions. Also, art therapy is for anyone! You don't have to have experience or talent in this area to benefit from the interventions I offer.
(740) 619-2442 View (740) 619-2442
Photo of Jennifer Franck, MSSA, LISW-S, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Franck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mentor, OH 44060  (Online Only)
Do you want to break free of the cycle of depression, anxiety, and trauma? I help by working through your "toolbox" of coping skills, and add new ones, tune up old ones, and get rid of what is no longer helping. My name is Jennifer Franck and I have been a Social Worker for over 25 years. I have worked in many settings addressing many different concerns. I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and self-confidence issues. I have also worked with those facing life-limiting illness as a Social Worker for hospice.
Do you want to break free of the cycle of depression, anxiety, and trauma? I help by working through your "toolbox" of coping skills, and add new ones, tune up old ones, and get rid of what is no longer helping. My name is Jennifer Franck and I have been a Social Worker for over 25 years. I have worked in many settings addressing many different concerns. I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and self-confidence issues. I have also worked with those facing life-limiting illness as a Social Worker for hospice.
(440) 578-7746 View (440) 578-7746
Photo of Beth Mullett, LPCC, MSEd, Counselor
Beth Mullett
Counselor, LPCC, MSEd
Verified Verified
Marion, OH 43302  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am comfortable working with clients from nearly any age bracket, cultural background or socioeconomic group. As an LGBTQ Ally, I am accepting of and welcome clients of any gender or identity. I am experienced working with families, individuals and couples. I am especially experienced in working with clients struggling with chronic pain and illness, as well as trauma, depression and anxiety. I work to develop a solid therapeutic relationship, which encourages a foundation of trust. Then I help utilizing integrative and personalized interventions.
I am comfortable working with clients from nearly any age bracket, cultural background or socioeconomic group. As an LGBTQ Ally, I am accepting of and welcome clients of any gender or identity. I am experienced working with families, individuals and couples. I am especially experienced in working with clients struggling with chronic pain and illness, as well as trauma, depression and anxiety. I work to develop a solid therapeutic relationship, which encourages a foundation of trust. Then I help utilizing integrative and personalized interventions.
(614) 368-6118 View (614) 368-6118
Photo of Derek Stegner, LPCC
Derek Stegner
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43615  (Online Only)
I have many years of experience working with early childhood trauma and severe, persistent mental illness, varying from ages of 5 years to 70+. My goal is to empower and advocate for positive change within you, as the individual, and the system as a whole. The place that we will create together is a safe and judgement free space. I work through an Existential foundation, to help those I work with seek meaning and purpose, with skills built from experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, all within the context of a trauma-informed approach.
I have many years of experience working with early childhood trauma and severe, persistent mental illness, varying from ages of 5 years to 70+. My goal is to empower and advocate for positive change within you, as the individual, and the system as a whole. The place that we will create together is a safe and judgement free space. I work through an Existential foundation, to help those I work with seek meaning and purpose, with skills built from experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, all within the context of a trauma-informed approach.
(419) 670-6842 View (419) 670-6842
Photo of Hilary Boyle, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hilary Boyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holland, OH 43528
Do you have chronic pain and medical conditions? Anxiety? Depression? I have personal and professional experience and understand how it is hard to find someone who “gets it.” I would like to work alongside you to help you live a happy, meaningful life with these conditions. I also enjoy helping individuals with mood disorders, stress management, and life transitions. I currently see clients ages 10 and up.
Do you have chronic pain and medical conditions? Anxiety? Depression? I have personal and professional experience and understand how it is hard to find someone who “gets it.” I would like to work alongside you to help you live a happy, meaningful life with these conditions. I also enjoy helping individuals with mood disorders, stress management, and life transitions. I currently see clients ages 10 and up.
(855) 805-4673 View (855) 805-4673
Photo of Vikki Gardner, MA, LPCC-S, CHT, Counselor
Vikki Gardner
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, CHT
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43623
I employ a wide-range of techniques in my practice which include but are not limited to: trauma-informed practice, EMDR, Imago Relationship Therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing and goal setting, CBT, relaxation skills training, interpersonal therapy (IPT), clinical hypnotherapy, pain reduction and holistic perspectives.
Facing change, hardship or loss? Desire more from life and your relationships? As human beings, we long to connect to others who will support us, respect our experiences and worldview. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, I’ve served the mental health community for over 2 decades. I am dedicated to learning the most effective approaches to support wellbeing.
I employ a wide-range of techniques in my practice which include but are not limited to: trauma-informed practice, EMDR, Imago Relationship Therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing and goal setting, CBT, relaxation skills training, interpersonal therapy (IPT), clinical hypnotherapy, pain reduction and holistic perspectives.
Facing change, hardship or loss? Desire more from life and your relationships? As human beings, we long to connect to others who will support us, respect our experiences and worldview. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, I’ve served the mental health community for over 2 decades. I am dedicated to learning the most effective approaches to support wellbeing.
(419) 419-0228 View (419) 419-0228
Dianne L Haslinger
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Maumee, OH 43537
Fibromyalgia and other health issues can take a huge toll on relationships, both at home and in the workplace.
Therapy is a unique opportunity to focus on creating a more fulfilling and satisfying life. I believe that therapy works most effectively when the client and therapist work together when addressing the issues. Whether it is individual, family or relationship issues that bring you to counseling, we will work together to increase insights and solutions specifically for your life. I have an inclusive and accepting style and strive to meet each person where they're at in his or her life. I provide supportive counseling to help you envision a life differently and with more optimism.
Fibromyalgia and other health issues can take a huge toll on relationships, both at home and in the workplace.
Therapy is a unique opportunity to focus on creating a more fulfilling and satisfying life. I believe that therapy works most effectively when the client and therapist work together when addressing the issues. Whether it is individual, family or relationship issues that bring you to counseling, we will work together to increase insights and solutions specifically for your life. I have an inclusive and accepting style and strive to meet each person where they're at in his or her life. I provide supportive counseling to help you envision a life differently and with more optimism.
(419) 386-2201 View (419) 386-2201
Photo of Beth M Shapiro, PhD, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth M Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
I have special interest in working with clients/families dealing with issues such as: trauma, adjustment to illness; end-of-life; anticipatory, disenfranchised & general grief/loss; pet loss; caregiver stress & fatigue; relationships; adjustment & mood disorders; adoption; LGBTQ+ issues & life transitions.
I am a licensed independent social worker with a PhD in psychology (academic degree). My humanistic approach engages clients in active collaboration on the content/direction of therapy. I strive to make the therapeutic space & time warm, welcoming, & safe, to provide clients the ability to focus on problems. I have extensive experience working within healthcare & hospice environments, & have a strong understanding of medical issues. I utilize strengths-based approaches in counseling individuals, couples, & families. Techniques are based on therapies including; EMDR, mindfulness, acceptance, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, narrative, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, & client-centered therapy. My dissertation focused on existential suffering at end of life.
I have special interest in working with clients/families dealing with issues such as: trauma, adjustment to illness; end-of-life; anticipatory, disenfranchised & general grief/loss; pet loss; caregiver stress & fatigue; relationships; adjustment & mood disorders; adoption; LGBTQ+ issues & life transitions.
I am a licensed independent social worker with a PhD in psychology (academic degree). My humanistic approach engages clients in active collaboration on the content/direction of therapy. I strive to make the therapeutic space & time warm, welcoming, & safe, to provide clients the ability to focus on problems. I have extensive experience working within healthcare & hospice environments, & have a strong understanding of medical issues. I utilize strengths-based approaches in counseling individuals, couples, & families. Techniques are based on therapies including; EMDR, mindfulness, acceptance, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, narrative, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, & client-centered therapy. My dissertation focused on existential suffering at end of life.
(440) 210-0430 View (440) 210-0430
Photo of Mariam E Henderson-Rucker, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mariam E Henderson-Rucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lorain, OH 44052  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults to address depression, anxiety, grief/loss, chronic illness, life transitions, divorce/separation and geriatric issues.
It is my mission in life and personal passion as an Licensed Clinical Social Worker to be of service to those navigating life's most complex and difficult challenges. During times of life transition, anyone can experience stress, loneliness, despair, insecurity, abandonment, heartbreak and suffering. I will tailor therapeutic approaches that are compatible with your unique personality, culture, issue and learning style. I offer empathy, compassion, relatable narratives and a Christian perspective. Collectively, we will identify your concerns and develop a treatment plan to specifically address your needs and achieve your goals.
I specialize in working with adults to address depression, anxiety, grief/loss, chronic illness, life transitions, divorce/separation and geriatric issues.
It is my mission in life and personal passion as an Licensed Clinical Social Worker to be of service to those navigating life's most complex and difficult challenges. During times of life transition, anyone can experience stress, loneliness, despair, insecurity, abandonment, heartbreak and suffering. I will tailor therapeutic approaches that are compatible with your unique personality, culture, issue and learning style. I offer empathy, compassion, relatable narratives and a Christian perspective. Collectively, we will identify your concerns and develop a treatment plan to specifically address your needs and achieve your goals.
(440) 689-3014 View (440) 689-3014
Photo of Susan Adams, LPCC, AT, MA, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, AT, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Westlake, OH 44145  (Online Only)
Hope for the Journey is my professional motto. My goal is to partner with you on your life's journey as we find healing, peace, hope and authenticity. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I specialize in working with woman facing a variety of challenges including feeling overwhelmed, stressed, depressed, having relationship issues, grief, anger, chronic illness, anxiety, difficulty sleeping and more. Treatment is uniquely tailored to meet your needs. I am ready to help!
Hope for the Journey is my professional motto. My goal is to partner with you on your life's journey as we find healing, peace, hope and authenticity. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I specialize in working with woman facing a variety of challenges including feeling overwhelmed, stressed, depressed, having relationship issues, grief, anger, chronic illness, anxiety, difficulty sleeping and more. Treatment is uniquely tailored to meet your needs. I am ready to help!
(440) 310-6361 View (440) 310-6361
Photo of Yael Farkas (Vineburg), MA, LPCC
Yael Farkas (Vineburg)
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I have extensive clinical experience with survivors of abuse & trauma, individuals with Eating Disorders, Chronic Pain, Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, and Anxiety related disorders.
I believe anyone brave enough to seek out therapy is motivated to make a change in how they cope, experience, and take charge of all that life throws at them. As a mental health counselor, I am here to walk with and encourage you as you empower yourself to continue to live a life of meaning and purpose. I will help you identify and work with your strengths, values, and goals, no matter what baggage and background seems to weigh you down.
I have extensive clinical experience with survivors of abuse & trauma, individuals with Eating Disorders, Chronic Pain, Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, and Anxiety related disorders.
I believe anyone brave enough to seek out therapy is motivated to make a change in how they cope, experience, and take charge of all that life throws at them. As a mental health counselor, I am here to walk with and encourage you as you empower yourself to continue to live a life of meaning and purpose. I will help you identify and work with your strengths, values, and goals, no matter what baggage and background seems to weigh you down.
(440) 379-8594 View (440) 379-8594
Photo of Christopher Zalewski, MSW, LSCSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Zalewski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106  (Online Only)
My primary specialty is working with individuals diagnosed with a long-term illness and their care partners.
"The only thing constant is change." Life is full of moments that require major adjustments to how we live, think, and act in the world. These times of adjustment can often be stressful, even painful. On the other hand, there exists enormous opportunity for growth during these times of change.
My primary specialty is working with individuals diagnosed with a long-term illness and their care partners.
"The only thing constant is change." Life is full of moments that require major adjustments to how we live, think, and act in the world. These times of adjustment can often be stressful, even painful. On the other hand, there exists enormous opportunity for growth during these times of change.
(216) 930-1672 View (216) 930-1672
Photo of Casey Elliott, LSW
Casey Elliott
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43615  (Online Only)
Hi, welcome! I am so happy you’re here! My name is Casey, and I am a Licensed Social Worker. I have worked with a variety of populations throughout my career. I started off working with teens and adolescents who struggled with behavioral issues at home and in the school setting. I have since ventured into working with adults and older adults who suffer from chronic illnesses. Whether you suffer from a chronic illness, chronic pain, have dealt with depression and anxiety, or you just feel like life could be better I want to assist you in developing healthy coping skills in order to improve your quality of life.
Hi, welcome! I am so happy you’re here! My name is Casey, and I am a Licensed Social Worker. I have worked with a variety of populations throughout my career. I started off working with teens and adolescents who struggled with behavioral issues at home and in the school setting. I have since ventured into working with adults and older adults who suffer from chronic illnesses. Whether you suffer from a chronic illness, chronic pain, have dealt with depression and anxiety, or you just feel like life could be better I want to assist you in developing healthy coping skills in order to improve your quality of life.
(419) 964-4122 View (419) 964-4122
Photo of Molly Simek, MSSA, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Simek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
I have worked with people experiencing grief, aging difficulties, individuals managing chronic illness, and those with alcoholism or a desire to reduce consumption of alcohol.
Hello! I believe therapy is a collaborative experience. I will work with you to meet your needs and goals. I strive to empower you to not only to see that change is possible but to achieve it. I know you are the expert of your own life experience. As a therapist, I am here to assist you, wherever you may be on your journey, in self-acceptance, growth, and transformation. I have a Bachelor of Social Work from Youngstown State University and a Master of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University. I also has an extensive personal and professional knowledge of the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous.
I have worked with people experiencing grief, aging difficulties, individuals managing chronic illness, and those with alcoholism or a desire to reduce consumption of alcohol.
Hello! I believe therapy is a collaborative experience. I will work with you to meet your needs and goals. I strive to empower you to not only to see that change is possible but to achieve it. I know you are the expert of your own life experience. As a therapist, I am here to assist you, wherever you may be on your journey, in self-acceptance, growth, and transformation. I have a Bachelor of Social Work from Youngstown State University and a Master of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University. I also has an extensive personal and professional knowledge of the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous.
(380) 212-3438 View (380) 212-3438

See more therapy options for Ottawa County

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.