Chronic Pain Therapists in Chester Springs, PA

Photo of Kristina Vacha, LCSW, LBS, MSS, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina Vacha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LBS, MSS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester Springs, PA 19425
My personal experiences with autism, chronic illness and growing up in a military family allow me to offer my clients a high level of compassion.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or social isolation? Are you overwhelmed by work, family, relationships, or facing major life stressors? Is it hard to feel like you fit in? Are you trying really hard and still left feeling like you aren't good enough? My clients are often feeling stuck and wanting to feel better. I offer a safe place and support so you can learn better ways to cope, reduce symptoms of distress, and move closer to living your best life. My clientele includes adults with autism, both diagnosed or exploring neurodiversity, individuals with chronic illness or individuals facing empty nest/retirement.
My personal experiences with autism, chronic illness and growing up in a military family allow me to offer my clients a high level of compassion.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or social isolation? Are you overwhelmed by work, family, relationships, or facing major life stressors? Is it hard to feel like you fit in? Are you trying really hard and still left feeling like you aren't good enough? My clients are often feeling stuck and wanting to feel better. I offer a safe place and support so you can learn better ways to cope, reduce symptoms of distress, and move closer to living your best life. My clientele includes adults with autism, both diagnosed or exploring neurodiversity, individuals with chronic illness or individuals facing empty nest/retirement.
(484) 212-0888 View (484) 212-0888
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Roy, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Elizabeth Roy
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chester Springs, PA 19425  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Elizabeth Roy, Psy.D. I am currently a psychology associate at the Rowan Center for Behavioral Medicine. Navigating life with a chronic illness or disability may present many challenges including adjusting to what a new "normal" may look like. Many individuals I work with wish to get back to enjoying activities and spending time with friends and family like they used to. Therapy can offer a collaborative space to process the emotions associated with a change of this nature as well as offer a space to problem-solve ways to move towards living a life that is meaningful and fulfilling to you.
Welcome! My name is Elizabeth Roy, Psy.D. I am currently a psychology associate at the Rowan Center for Behavioral Medicine. Navigating life with a chronic illness or disability may present many challenges including adjusting to what a new "normal" may look like. Many individuals I work with wish to get back to enjoying activities and spending time with friends and family like they used to. Therapy can offer a collaborative space to process the emotions associated with a change of this nature as well as offer a space to problem-solve ways to move towards living a life that is meaningful and fulfilling to you.
(484) 917-2355 View (484) 917-2355
Photo of Laura Orsatti Weissflog, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-, BC, SEP
Laura Orsatti Weissflog
MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-, BC, SEP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Chester Springs, PA 19425
If you have had an experience that seems traumatic to you despite what others may think or say, or any extremely stressful life challenge recently or in the past, I specialize in helping with these issues. If there is something you have never shared with anyone or are frightened by the prospect of disclosing what you've carried for a long time, I am here to listen. The impact of distressing experiences may result in extreme anxiety or fear, episodes of depression, repeated difficulties in personal or family relationships and even physical health issues. Emotional experiences during developmental years may result in complex PTSD.
If you have had an experience that seems traumatic to you despite what others may think or say, or any extremely stressful life challenge recently or in the past, I specialize in helping with these issues. If there is something you have never shared with anyone or are frightened by the prospect of disclosing what you've carried for a long time, I am here to listen. The impact of distressing experiences may result in extreme anxiety or fear, episodes of depression, repeated difficulties in personal or family relationships and even physical health issues. Emotional experiences during developmental years may result in complex PTSD.
(610) 915-8007 View (610) 915-8007
Dr. Lisa Cerullo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MHS, LCSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Chester Springs, PA 19425  (Online Only)
Every day gives you choices, sometimes too many choices. Yet, it is “your” choice to make today or tomorrow. Through practicing as a psychotherapist for the past ten years, being a parent, professor, and an athlete I have experienced many people having difficulties making choices. So many of us get stuck with feelings of depression, fear and anxiety that making even one choice becomes too difficult. It helps to have someone assist by listening, guiding and being a support. This role is a role that I feel comfortable with as a therapist. My therapeutic style is best described as engaged & supportive
Every day gives you choices, sometimes too many choices. Yet, it is “your” choice to make today or tomorrow. Through practicing as a psychotherapist for the past ten years, being a parent, professor, and an athlete I have experienced many people having difficulties making choices. So many of us get stuck with feelings of depression, fear and anxiety that making even one choice becomes too difficult. It helps to have someone assist by listening, guiding and being a support. This role is a role that I feel comfortable with as a therapist. My therapeutic style is best described as engaged & supportive
(610) 880-2309 View (610) 880-2309
Photo of Holly Copeland, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly Copeland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chester Springs, PA 19425
Holly is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 30 years’ experience guiding adolescents, adults, children and families. She is an adept listener who has worked extensively in private practice and in a variety of clinical settings including outpatient clinics, residential treatment facilities and schools. She uses mind-body techniques and maintains a holistic healing perspective to help you achieve mental, physical and spiritual well-being. Holly is trained in a variety of modalities, including EMDR, Flash Technique, Transpersonal and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction.
Holly is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 30 years’ experience guiding adolescents, adults, children and families. She is an adept listener who has worked extensively in private practice and in a variety of clinical settings including outpatient clinics, residential treatment facilities and schools. She uses mind-body techniques and maintains a holistic healing perspective to help you achieve mental, physical and spiritual well-being. Holly is trained in a variety of modalities, including EMDR, Flash Technique, Transpersonal and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction.
(484) 209-6648 View (484) 209-6648
Photo of Valjean Stead, Psychologist
Valjean Stead
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Chester Springs, PA 19425
I specialize in evaluation and diagnosis, which are the building blocks to effective treatment. As a Licensed Psychologist for over 20 years, I have developed a great appreciation and compassion for the needs of my clients. I counsel teens, adults, to seniors to find practical and successful ways to meet these needs.
I specialize in evaluation and diagnosis, which are the building blocks to effective treatment. As a Licensed Psychologist for over 20 years, I have developed a great appreciation and compassion for the needs of my clients. I counsel teens, adults, to seniors to find practical and successful ways to meet these needs.
(717) 759-4846 View (717) 759-4846
Photo of Dorothy Skierkowski-Foster, PhD, Psychologist
Dorothy Skierkowski-Foster
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chester Springs, PA 19425  (Online Only)
I believe in treating the whole person, not just their symptoms. I work collaboratively with each client to develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs, strengths, and goals. My person-first approach focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship and empowering clients to take an active role in their recovery. Whether helping clients manage anxiety, depression, relational functioning, or other mental health concerns, I draw from a variety of modalities to provide tailored support.
I believe in treating the whole person, not just their symptoms. I work collaboratively with each client to develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs, strengths, and goals. My person-first approach focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship and empowering clients to take an active role in their recovery. Whether helping clients manage anxiety, depression, relational functioning, or other mental health concerns, I draw from a variety of modalities to provide tailored support.
(844) 287-4228 View (844) 287-4228
Photo of Samantha Gambale, LSW, MSW
Samantha Gambale
LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester Springs, PA 19425
Are you dealing with overwhelming anxiety? Is daily stress accumulating and impacting your wellbeing? Tired of a loud inner critic? If so, contact me for a free consult & we'll get started on your healing together. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind&body. Therapy helps us understand our life events, family dynamics and personal identity. It focuses on what is in our control and how to take the steps towards self-acceptance. Through integrative techniques, we identify the root of your symptoms&skills to thrive. I work with ages 13 + as a holistic ally to help you heal.
Are you dealing with overwhelming anxiety? Is daily stress accumulating and impacting your wellbeing? Tired of a loud inner critic? If so, contact me for a free consult & we'll get started on your healing together. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind&body. Therapy helps us understand our life events, family dynamics and personal identity. It focuses on what is in our control and how to take the steps towards self-acceptance. Through integrative techniques, we identify the root of your symptoms&skills to thrive. I work with ages 13 + as a holistic ally to help you heal.
(215) 607-8174 View (215) 607-8174
Photo of Tina Shea, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tina Shea
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chester Springs, PA 19425
Unmotivated, irritable, stuck, anxious, tired… I work with people who use some of these words to describe how they feel in their life or relationship. Working together, we can get you past roadblocks and creating a more authentic & fulfilling life. That looks different for every person. Is it managing anxiety, looking at trauma, growing a relationship? It's said there are 2 people you should try to make proud in your life; your 8 year old self and your 80 year old self. How's it going for you?
Unmotivated, irritable, stuck, anxious, tired… I work with people who use some of these words to describe how they feel in their life or relationship. Working together, we can get you past roadblocks and creating a more authentic & fulfilling life. That looks different for every person. Is it managing anxiety, looking at trauma, growing a relationship? It's said there are 2 people you should try to make proud in your life; your 8 year old self and your 80 year old self. How's it going for you?
(610) 601-3235 View (610) 601-3235
Photo of Randy Rex, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Randy Rex
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chester Springs, PA 19425
Anxiety and stress affect everyone. Whatever the cause- relationships, school, work, medical issues, existential/spiritual crisis, loss of any kind- it can be overwhelming. Important obligations and events might be avoided, communication and connection compromised. Self-esteem, sleep, energy level, and mood all may suffer. We will collaborate to address the challenging areas of your life, manage stresses from your environment and body, and develop strategies to overcome unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior. Through this work it will be possible to experience relief, become happier, and evolve as a person.
Anxiety and stress affect everyone. Whatever the cause- relationships, school, work, medical issues, existential/spiritual crisis, loss of any kind- it can be overwhelming. Important obligations and events might be avoided, communication and connection compromised. Self-esteem, sleep, energy level, and mood all may suffer. We will collaborate to address the challenging areas of your life, manage stresses from your environment and body, and develop strategies to overcome unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior. Through this work it will be possible to experience relief, become happier, and evolve as a person.
(610) 365-1561 View (610) 365-1561
Photo of Liz Green, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chester Springs, PA 19425  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes the people in our lives just don’t get it. Our lives don't often offer the non-judgmental space to work through trauma, heartache, and overwhelming stress. Talking with a therapist is different from talking with a friend or family member because you are free of obligations and responsibility. It is all about you, and I will ask helpful questions, point out connections and patterns, and simply give you space to put yourself first and talk through your experiences.
Sometimes the people in our lives just don’t get it. Our lives don't often offer the non-judgmental space to work through trauma, heartache, and overwhelming stress. Talking with a therapist is different from talking with a friend or family member because you are free of obligations and responsibility. It is all about you, and I will ask helpful questions, point out connections and patterns, and simply give you space to put yourself first and talk through your experiences.
(484) 483-2052 View (484) 483-2052

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tori Kline, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, CBIS, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tori Kline
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, CBIS, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Board Certified Art Therapist, Certified Brain Injury Specialist and Registered Yoga Teacher, I specialize in taking a creative and holistic approach to help clients find balance of mind, body and spirit. I seek to support and empower individuals to develop skills that align with their values and strengths, as a way to get in touch with a more mindful and centered sense of being to overcome life’s challenges. I aim to assist adults experiencing brain injury, physical disability or medical trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and chronic pain.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Board Certified Art Therapist, Certified Brain Injury Specialist and Registered Yoga Teacher, I specialize in taking a creative and holistic approach to help clients find balance of mind, body and spirit. I seek to support and empower individuals to develop skills that align with their values and strengths, as a way to get in touch with a more mindful and centered sense of being to overcome life’s challenges. I aim to assist adults experiencing brain injury, physical disability or medical trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and chronic pain.
View
Photo of Theodore Meyer, MA , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theodore Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19453  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people that have sought relief from anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic pain, and NPD/emotional abuse.
I view the mental health recovery process as similar to climbing a mountain: the first steps may feel overwhelming at times, however, therapy is a partnership where I can provide tools that help my clients get where they would like to go, while also building resiliency and strength for the future. Throughout the process, I will provide encouragement and at times, remind you to look back at how far you have come. Furthermore, I provide a non-judgmental and empathic space for this journey to occur.
I specialize in working with people that have sought relief from anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic pain, and NPD/emotional abuse.
I view the mental health recovery process as similar to climbing a mountain: the first steps may feel overwhelming at times, however, therapy is a partnership where I can provide tools that help my clients get where they would like to go, while also building resiliency and strength for the future. Throughout the process, I will provide encouragement and at times, remind you to look back at how far you have come. Furthermore, I provide a non-judgmental and empathic space for this journey to occur.
(610) 890-7944 View (610) 890-7944
Photo of Lisa Brenner - Clearing The Way Hypnotherapy, MSN, CRNP, FNP, BC, CHT
Clearing The Way Hypnotherapy
MSN, CRNP, FNP, BC, CHT
Verified Verified
Kimberton, PA 19442
When you enjoy a hypnotherapy experience you benefit from a deeply relaxed, yet mentally focused state. You remain in control while allowing abundant opportunities for positive growth. The term "hypnosis" is derived from the Greek "hypnos", meaning sleep. In reality you are awake enjoying a brainwave state similar to peaceful meditation. In Lisa's practice each client's uniqueness is intuited. Hypnotherapy can help with smoking cessation, stress / pain release, preparation for medical procedures, childbirth preparation, Irritable bowel, and much more. It can also be a profound tool for introspection, personal clarity and growth.
When you enjoy a hypnotherapy experience you benefit from a deeply relaxed, yet mentally focused state. You remain in control while allowing abundant opportunities for positive growth. The term "hypnosis" is derived from the Greek "hypnos", meaning sleep. In reality you are awake enjoying a brainwave state similar to peaceful meditation. In Lisa's practice each client's uniqueness is intuited. Hypnotherapy can help with smoking cessation, stress / pain release, preparation for medical procedures, childbirth preparation, Irritable bowel, and much more. It can also be a profound tool for introspection, personal clarity and growth.
(484) 443-5471 View (484) 443-5471
Photo of Elaine L Goldhammer, MD
Elaine L Goldhammer
MD
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
Treat yourself to a relaxing, transformative session that lifts fear, lifts pain, reduces unnecessary suffering, and empowers you.
I offer a safe, fast, and effective combination of hypnotherapy and life coaching to help every client gain relief from mental and physical suffering. Clients are often unsure why they stay stuck in anxiety cycles in their lives, or can't stay on track with their health or their goals. Hypnotherapy is a direct way to uncover the subconscious thought patterns and solve the problem at the source. Inner Freedom Therapy can be used in conjunction with traditional therapy. It works well as a turbo booster to more traditional therapy or as a stand-alone resolution to emotional suffering around life, body, and/or health.
Treat yourself to a relaxing, transformative session that lifts fear, lifts pain, reduces unnecessary suffering, and empowers you.
I offer a safe, fast, and effective combination of hypnotherapy and life coaching to help every client gain relief from mental and physical suffering. Clients are often unsure why they stay stuck in anxiety cycles in their lives, or can't stay on track with their health or their goals. Hypnotherapy is a direct way to uncover the subconscious thought patterns and solve the problem at the source. Inner Freedom Therapy can be used in conjunction with traditional therapy. It works well as a turbo booster to more traditional therapy or as a stand-alone resolution to emotional suffering around life, body, and/or health.
(610) 632-7857 View (610) 632-7857
Photo of Sage Stevens, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sage Stevens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19383  (Online Only)
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, eating disorders, chronic pain, kink/poly/sex workers, PTSD, self-harm, and suicidality.
I’m glad you found my page! My name is Sage (they/them). Have you ever felt outcast from those around you, or less than others based on the intersectionality of your identities and how you present yourself? You may feel that nobody will understand that coming out later in life is possible- you are not alone. As a non-binary, pan, ace, neurodivergent and disabled therapist, I have lived experience with where you are right now. When you come to see me, you will be met with non-judgment, empathy, understanding, and compassion. You are always welcome to come as you are. Outside the zoom room I love nature, dance, and fostering animals!
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, eating disorders, chronic pain, kink/poly/sex workers, PTSD, self-harm, and suicidality.
I’m glad you found my page! My name is Sage (they/them). Have you ever felt outcast from those around you, or less than others based on the intersectionality of your identities and how you present yourself? You may feel that nobody will understand that coming out later in life is possible- you are not alone. As a non-binary, pan, ace, neurodivergent and disabled therapist, I have lived experience with where you are right now. When you come to see me, you will be met with non-judgment, empathy, understanding, and compassion. You are always welcome to come as you are. Outside the zoom room I love nature, dance, and fostering animals!
(814) 980-6286 View (814) 980-6286
Photo of Jean Eljay, PhD, CNLP, CH, CI, AdvHC
Jean Eljay
PhD, CNLP, CH, CI, AdvHC
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380
Are you struggling with extreme physical or emotional pain? Dr. Jean - creator of HypnoBiosis - helps you eliminate anxiety, stress, chronic pain and sleep disorders. His healing methods help transform cancer, congenital disorders, chronic disease patients into energized, healthy, happy individuals. With thousands of clients counseled, 2000+ research studies initiated, a Doctorate in Medical Genetics and Master's in Molecular Biology from one of the top 3 ranked hospitals in the world by U.S. News and World Report, Dr. Jean Eljay is credited as a top professional in stress, anxiety, pain and sleep problem solutions.
Are you struggling with extreme physical or emotional pain? Dr. Jean - creator of HypnoBiosis - helps you eliminate anxiety, stress, chronic pain and sleep disorders. His healing methods help transform cancer, congenital disorders, chronic disease patients into energized, healthy, happy individuals. With thousands of clients counseled, 2000+ research studies initiated, a Doctorate in Medical Genetics and Master's in Molecular Biology from one of the top 3 ranked hospitals in the world by U.S. News and World Report, Dr. Jean Eljay is credited as a top professional in stress, anxiety, pain and sleep problem solutions.
(484) 483-4907 View (484) 483-4907
Photo of Sherri McElfatrick, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherri McElfatrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
As you begin your journey to self healing I would like to be an empowering support person for you. I believe we all have personal strengths and the resilience to overcome life’s challenges. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel comfortable sharing and working through issues and concerns that you are facing. I believe in listening to one’s story and validating feelings. I have several years experience working in grief and loss and chronic illness. Past losses if not dealt with will present itself throughout life when other losses occur.
As you begin your journey to self healing I would like to be an empowering support person for you. I believe we all have personal strengths and the resilience to overcome life’s challenges. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel comfortable sharing and working through issues and concerns that you are facing. I believe in listening to one’s story and validating feelings. I have several years experience working in grief and loss and chronic illness. Past losses if not dealt with will present itself throughout life when other losses occur.
(267) 356-4327 View (267) 356-4327
Photo of Phoebe E McElhenny - TriCounty Counseling, MS, NCC, LPC, CSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
TriCounty Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CSP
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
Thank you for considering my professional counseling services. No matter what has brought you here today, you have just taken your first step toward a successful change in your life. If you are suffering from a divorce, illness or loss, depression, anxiety, ADD, developmental issues, anger, or a disruption or transition in your life or your child's life; allow me to help you. As a therapist, I will utilize a warm, confidential, non-judgemental approach to assisting you with your issue. I enjoy helping children, adolescents and adults understand and cope with their issues. Together, we find solutions so you can meet your goals.
Thank you for considering my professional counseling services. No matter what has brought you here today, you have just taken your first step toward a successful change in your life. If you are suffering from a divorce, illness or loss, depression, anxiety, ADD, developmental issues, anger, or a disruption or transition in your life or your child's life; allow me to help you. As a therapist, I will utilize a warm, confidential, non-judgemental approach to assisting you with your issue. I enjoy helping children, adolescents and adults understand and cope with their issues. Together, we find solutions so you can meet your goals.
(484) 271-6738 View (484) 271-6738
Photo of Dr. Regina Marie Miller, DSW, RN, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Regina Marie Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, RN, LCSW
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
Waitlist for new clients
The breadth of my work spans depression, anxiety, illness, chronic illness and grief.
In my work, I focus on the concept of hope. I find unique strengths within each individual and family. My clinical social work practice includes working with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, and panic; acute and chronic illness; addiction -related stressors; grief; and relationship concerns. I focus on the therapeutic alliance and look for opportunities to build on clients' strengths while working to create deeper connections and meaning throughout the lifespan. I work to create a safe space to begin the process of change. I appreciate my clients’ commitment and investment to the work.
The breadth of my work spans depression, anxiety, illness, chronic illness and grief.
In my work, I focus on the concept of hope. I find unique strengths within each individual and family. My clinical social work practice includes working with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, and panic; acute and chronic illness; addiction -related stressors; grief; and relationship concerns. I focus on the therapeutic alliance and look for opportunities to build on clients' strengths while working to create deeper connections and meaning throughout the lifespan. I work to create a safe space to begin the process of change. I appreciate my clients’ commitment and investment to the work.
(484) 801-4289 View (484) 801-4289

See more therapy options for Chester Springs

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.