Chronic Pain Therapists in Philadelphia, PA
![Photo of Caryn Seebach - Caryn Seebach, LLC, MS, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbac9a1c-3d6c-4ca2-b001-f5d65643e729/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am Dr. Caryn. I am a licensed health psychologist and Duke trained health coach with over 20 years of experience working with patients with chronic health conditions like chronic pain, migraine, autoimmune, diabetes/pre-diabetes, and sleep problems. As a health psychologist, I work at the intersection of physical health and mental health (because it’s all related!) and treat both using the best of mind/body medicine. My typical client is sick of feeling sick and unsupported by the healthcare system They want to feel successful and in control of their health so they can break out of the never ending cycle of (dis)ease.
Hi! I am Dr. Caryn. I am a licensed health psychologist and Duke trained health coach with over 20 years of experience working with patients with chronic health conditions like chronic pain, migraine, autoimmune, diabetes/pre-diabetes, and sleep problems. As a health psychologist, I work at the intersection of physical health and mental health (because it’s all related!) and treat both using the best of mind/body medicine. My typical client is sick of feeling sick and unsupported by the healthcare system They want to feel successful and in control of their health so they can break out of the never ending cycle of (dis)ease.
![Photo of Anne Nisenzon, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d8753b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have extensive experience in pain coping, stress management, adjustment to major life changes, and insomnia therapy.
Sometimes life throws obstacles at you that are out of your control, but that does not mean you cannot live your optimally healthy life. Being truly healthy includes emotional, social, mental and physical well-being. When these aspects of life are out of balance due to health problems, work stress, or personal issues, it can feel like your whole world is falling apart. Working through these challenges and learning the best coping tools can help you put it back together. I strive to help you move through challenges in achieving a healthy mind and body using practical, evidence-based strategies and compassionate tailored care.
I have extensive experience in pain coping, stress management, adjustment to major life changes, and insomnia therapy.
Sometimes life throws obstacles at you that are out of your control, but that does not mean you cannot live your optimally healthy life. Being truly healthy includes emotional, social, mental and physical well-being. When these aspects of life are out of balance due to health problems, work stress, or personal issues, it can feel like your whole world is falling apart. Working through these challenges and learning the best coping tools can help you put it back together. I strive to help you move through challenges in achieving a healthy mind and body using practical, evidence-based strategies and compassionate tailored care.
![Photo of Abigail Abbas - Arcline Associates Counsel Services, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f735527-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Arcline Associates Counsel Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Smile! Our specialties include GeriCare© (older adults with complicated grief/loss); chronic illness/pain; depression; relationships; coping; acceptance; D&A. Conflict Resolution: Adolescent behavioral & school conflict; bicultural, acculturation, assimilation, ethnicity socialization conflict; identity & intergenerational conflict. Stress/Anger Mgmt. Occupational Stress: Welcome Law Enforcement, First Responders, Hospital & Crisis Workers; Aviation Personnel. Parent Child Interaction. Marriage Family Couples Counseling. Emphasis on Family Systems, Relational, Interpersonal, Ecological Theory. Trauma Informed, DBT/CBT. PA Medicare & CHIP Welcome!
Smile! Our specialties include GeriCare© (older adults with complicated grief/loss); chronic illness/pain; depression; relationships; coping; acceptance; D&A. Conflict Resolution: Adolescent behavioral & school conflict; bicultural, acculturation, assimilation, ethnicity socialization conflict; identity & intergenerational conflict. Stress/Anger Mgmt. Occupational Stress: Welcome Law Enforcement, First Responders, Hospital & Crisis Workers; Aviation Personnel. Parent Child Interaction. Marriage Family Couples Counseling. Emphasis on Family Systems, Relational, Interpersonal, Ecological Theory. Trauma Informed, DBT/CBT. PA Medicare & CHIP Welcome!
![Photo of Sara Hertzel, PsyD, BCB, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19e00b71-91b0-4dde-b2b2-d18f787e9a0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I approach therapy with the understanding that many of our symptoms and struggles are normal human attempts to manage pain, loss, anxiety, and even difficult or overwhelming emotions. My goal is help you find your way through these struggles and reclaim a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling to you. I will collaborate with you and set therapy goals that feel right for you in the context of your personal history and identity, and use evidence-based treatments that have been shown to be effective for anxiety and mood management, grief, trauma, and chronic pain.
I approach therapy with the understanding that many of our symptoms and struggles are normal human attempts to manage pain, loss, anxiety, and even difficult or overwhelming emotions. My goal is help you find your way through these struggles and reclaim a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling to you. I will collaborate with you and set therapy goals that feel right for you in the context of your personal history and identity, and use evidence-based treatments that have been shown to be effective for anxiety and mood management, grief, trauma, and chronic pain.
![Photo of Jen Huber, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28770302-88d4-417b-9432-fc317964a083/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jen Huber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Experiencing several significant losses and dealing with my own physical health issues earlier in life served to help me recognize a deep sensitivity for the pain that people carry. As a therapist it is imperative to me that I do not ask my clients to go somewhere I am not willing to go. I seek to create spaces that are safe, welcoming and stable for client's experiencing distress from past or present. As our nervous systems have created ways to adapt and survive, I believe in the exploration and healing from the deepest parts of ourselves.
Experiencing several significant losses and dealing with my own physical health issues earlier in life served to help me recognize a deep sensitivity for the pain that people carry. As a therapist it is imperative to me that I do not ask my clients to go somewhere I am not willing to go. I seek to create spaces that are safe, welcoming and stable for client's experiencing distress from past or present. As our nervous systems have created ways to adapt and survive, I believe in the exploration and healing from the deepest parts of ourselves.
![Photo of Deanna Denman, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b44aaa51-3ba6-493b-bc28-2ce4b917de9a/3/320x400.png)
My specialization includes work with individuals dealing with chronic pain, chronic illness, and trauma recovery, including traumatic injuries.
Therapy with me is an active, engaging process. My practice is grounded in evidence-based approaches and tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. In therapy, I create a space characterized by authenticity, humor, and acceptance. I believe that being direct and genuine helps in building a therapeutic relationship where real change can occur. My approach integrates strategies from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindful Self-Compassion, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I also often incorporate hypnosis in my sessions, which has proven effective in both acute symptom management and deeper therapeutic processes.
My specialization includes work with individuals dealing with chronic pain, chronic illness, and trauma recovery, including traumatic injuries.
Therapy with me is an active, engaging process. My practice is grounded in evidence-based approaches and tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. In therapy, I create a space characterized by authenticity, humor, and acceptance. I believe that being direct and genuine helps in building a therapeutic relationship where real change can occur. My approach integrates strategies from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindful Self-Compassion, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I also often incorporate hypnosis in my sessions, which has proven effective in both acute symptom management and deeper therapeutic processes.
![Photo of Kirsten Lyons, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9adffef-bf5c-40e7-a536-8cc0d65a8a78/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you find yourself feeling the weight of trauma, struggling with chronic pain, or repeating old, unhelpful patterns in relationships, you are in the right place. I specialize in helping people befriend their nervous systems and build a deeper connection to their bodies to resolve trauma, navigate chronic pain, and gain insight necessary for change. As a queer and nonbinary person, I understand the importance of shared identity with a therapist, and work to foster a safe space for LGBTQIA+, kinky, and non-monogamous folks to bring their full selves into therapy.
If you find yourself feeling the weight of trauma, struggling with chronic pain, or repeating old, unhelpful patterns in relationships, you are in the right place. I specialize in helping people befriend their nervous systems and build a deeper connection to their bodies to resolve trauma, navigate chronic pain, and gain insight necessary for change. As a queer and nonbinary person, I understand the importance of shared identity with a therapist, and work to foster a safe space for LGBTQIA+, kinky, and non-monogamous folks to bring their full selves into therapy.
![Photo of Wendy Lee Forman, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b72440f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy is an interactive process,and I connect easily and well with people of all ages who are struggling with depression, anxiety,relationships and family issues,chronic illness or grief. I am a practical person with a good sense of humor and considerable empathy, employing a variety of useful techniques depending on specific problems and goals.
Therapy is an interactive process,and I connect easily and well with people of all ages who are struggling with depression, anxiety,relationships and family issues,chronic illness or grief. I am a practical person with a good sense of humor and considerable empathy, employing a variety of useful techniques depending on specific problems and goals.
![Photo of Christine McDevitt - Farfalla Integrative Health LLC, MS, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56c4d128-91e9-4b33-9364-93e20b85145c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Farfalla Integrative Health LLC
Occupational Therapist, MS, OTR/L
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128 (Online Only)
Symptoms that can impact the way you function include pain, anxiety, depression, overwhelm, attention problems, brain fog, fatigue, insomnia, body image concerns, & memories that negatively affect your approach to life.
You deserve a life that’s satisfying & enjoyable. I teach adults with persistent symptoms how to function at their best so they finally start feeling like themselves again. My practice offers two types of services: Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT tapping) & occupational therapy (OT). These are NOT traditional talk therapy or counseling services. EFT tapping is a mind-body method that helps change the way your nervous system responds to distressing thoughts, feelings, or body sensations. Using EFT, I help you change the way difficult memories & emotions affect how you think, act, or behave during the course of your day.
Symptoms that can impact the way you function include pain, anxiety, depression, overwhelm, attention problems, brain fog, fatigue, insomnia, body image concerns, & memories that negatively affect your approach to life.
You deserve a life that’s satisfying & enjoyable. I teach adults with persistent symptoms how to function at their best so they finally start feeling like themselves again. My practice offers two types of services: Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT tapping) & occupational therapy (OT). These are NOT traditional talk therapy or counseling services. EFT tapping is a mind-body method that helps change the way your nervous system responds to distressing thoughts, feelings, or body sensations. Using EFT, I help you change the way difficult memories & emotions affect how you think, act, or behave during the course of your day.
![Photo of Morgan Rakay, MA, LPC, BC-DMT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d248768-e2c2-40fa-96ea-7e5efb66ac78/1/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan Rakay
Counselor, MA, LPC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19128 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I often view my work as supporting bodies in transition - in whatever form that comes. Many of my clients are those with medical illness or injury, caregivers, mothers, or trauma survivors who are faced with the impact that change in their physical self has on their mental and emotional well-being. Clients often wish to explore the mind-body connection, integrate non-verbal approaches, or find a new perspective on therapy. I also work with infants and children who deserve the same compassionate care, but don't benefit from verbal therapy in the same way.
I often view my work as supporting bodies in transition - in whatever form that comes. Many of my clients are those with medical illness or injury, caregivers, mothers, or trauma survivors who are faced with the impact that change in their physical self has on their mental and emotional well-being. Clients often wish to explore the mind-body connection, integrate non-verbal approaches, or find a new perspective on therapy. I also work with infants and children who deserve the same compassionate care, but don't benefit from verbal therapy in the same way.
![Photo of Alexandra Chadderdon, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42d70ec0-b3af-4af1-89fd-e54e683e3459/3/320x400.png)
I specialize in treating chronic pain and chronic illness. When working with clients with chronic pain and/or chronic illness, I focus on the concept of functional restoration. This means helping clients get back to doing the things that are most important to them and spending time with their loved ones. I use techniques that include activity pacing, relaxation exercises, hypnosis for pain control, and values clarification to help clients create a new and fulfilling life for themselves, even in the midst of pain and illness. I work collaboratively with clients to develop healthier coping strategies, and provide candid feedback.
I specialize in treating chronic pain and chronic illness. When working with clients with chronic pain and/or chronic illness, I focus on the concept of functional restoration. This means helping clients get back to doing the things that are most important to them and spending time with their loved ones. I use techniques that include activity pacing, relaxation exercises, hypnosis for pain control, and values clarification to help clients create a new and fulfilling life for themselves, even in the midst of pain and illness. I work collaboratively with clients to develop healthier coping strategies, and provide candid feedback.
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![Photo of Matthew CP Purinton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d0a5211-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew CP Purinton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Matt utilizes the unique knowledge gleaned from his life experience: thirty-five years of living with a disability, twenty-seven years of which have been spent dealing with chronic pain.
Matt is a client-centered therapist, who, meeting his clients where they are, helps them to develop and accomplish their goals. He utilizes a systems-based conceptualization of group behavior to help his clients deal with issues in their work and home lives. Utilizing an eclectic blend of interventions to customize treatment to the client's needs, Matt helps his clients develop insights about themselves and their life circumstances, allowing them to discover new coping skills and uncover hidden resources. Matt helps all of his clients overcome their obstacles, develop resiliency, and think outside the box.
Matt utilizes the unique knowledge gleaned from his life experience: thirty-five years of living with a disability, twenty-seven years of which have been spent dealing with chronic pain.
Matt is a client-centered therapist, who, meeting his clients where they are, helps them to develop and accomplish their goals. He utilizes a systems-based conceptualization of group behavior to help his clients deal with issues in their work and home lives. Utilizing an eclectic blend of interventions to customize treatment to the client's needs, Matt helps his clients develop insights about themselves and their life circumstances, allowing them to discover new coping skills and uncover hidden resources. Matt helps all of his clients overcome their obstacles, develop resiliency, and think outside the box.
![Photo of Theodore Meyer, MA , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0935e5ac-d01b-4389-8c26-32939d3fafa6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Theodore Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (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.
![Photo of Nancy Roth, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c261fb4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Many of my clients are interested in improving their health through weight management, smoking cessation, pain management or other behavior changes.
I believe that everyone has strengths--and that everyone encounters challenges. During difficult times, I can help you find new ways of understanding what's happening, additional resources for support and enhanced coping skills that build on your existing strengths. I work primarily with adults, individually, in couples or as families.
Many of my clients are interested in improving their health through weight management, smoking cessation, pain management or other behavior changes.
I believe that everyone has strengths--and that everyone encounters challenges. During difficult times, I can help you find new ways of understanding what's happening, additional resources for support and enhanced coping skills that build on your existing strengths. I work primarily with adults, individually, in couples or as families.
![Photo of Maddie Quirk, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6eb1af46-6071-4726-8356-b87bbb3f53dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maddie Quirk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19144
I specialize in treating childhood trauma, chronic pain, adult children of alcoholics (ACOAs), post-traumatic stress disorder, and codependency.
With over a decade of experience in the mental health field I have worked with clients from all walks of life. While everyone is unique in their struggles, I believe that most suffering can be alleviated by addressing root causes such as early childhood traumas, nervous system dysfunction, and family of origin wounding.
I specialize in treating childhood trauma, chronic pain, adult children of alcoholics (ACOAs), post-traumatic stress disorder, and codependency.
With over a decade of experience in the mental health field I have worked with clients from all walks of life. While everyone is unique in their struggles, I believe that most suffering can be alleviated by addressing root causes such as early childhood traumas, nervous system dysfunction, and family of origin wounding.
![Photo of Jessica Dean Russo, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c7f6855-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be difficult at times, sometimes overwhelming. We may not trust ourselves to walk the path that is best for us, second-guessing and blocking our innate knowing of what is right and wrong. I work with adults, children and couples, providing a safe environment of warmth and unconditional positive regard, so that each person can have the space to discover who he or she is and what steps are needed to better manage conflicts. I work with those suffering from low self-esteem, trauma, relational and transition issues, chronic pain and addiction.
Life can be difficult at times, sometimes overwhelming. We may not trust ourselves to walk the path that is best for us, second-guessing and blocking our innate knowing of what is right and wrong. I work with adults, children and couples, providing a safe environment of warmth and unconditional positive regard, so that each person can have the space to discover who he or she is and what steps are needed to better manage conflicts. I work with those suffering from low self-esteem, trauma, relational and transition issues, chronic pain and addiction.
![Photo of Dr. Dina Karvounides, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c41e3aa-c7c7-40f4-a636-52b726f63a7b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical psychologist who is passionate about my work in supporting youth, young adults and their families to address life’s challenges. Over the past 16 years, I have worked with diverse patients who are coping with anxiety, depression, adjustment to chronic illness-particularly chronic pain conditions, challenges related to gender and sexual identity, as well as difficulties faced with peer and family relationships.
I am a clinical psychologist who is passionate about my work in supporting youth, young adults and their families to address life’s challenges. Over the past 16 years, I have worked with diverse patients who are coping with anxiety, depression, adjustment to chronic illness-particularly chronic pain conditions, challenges related to gender and sexual identity, as well as difficulties faced with peer and family relationships.
![Photo of Sophie Doar, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/963c4459-e081-451e-9b71-3d7306c1224e/2/320x400.png)
I have extensive experience working with trans/gender-expansive individuals, trauma survivors, those struggling with chronic pelvic pain, and navigating relationship issues.
Therapy can free us from the patterns that keep us from experiencing the fullness of life. It can give us access to the wisdom and inner tools that help us live more authentically. Whether you struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, matters of sexual or gender identity, or some other life transition, I prioritize creating a foundation of safety and trust. Together, we will help you to feel more freedom and connection in your life.
I have extensive experience working with trans/gender-expansive individuals, trauma survivors, those struggling with chronic pelvic pain, and navigating relationship issues.
Therapy can free us from the patterns that keep us from experiencing the fullness of life. It can give us access to the wisdom and inner tools that help us live more authentically. Whether you struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, matters of sexual or gender identity, or some other life transition, I prioritize creating a foundation of safety and trust. Together, we will help you to feel more freedom and connection in your life.
![Photo of Irene S Fisher, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f533949-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clients see me as a warm, nonthreatening person with whom they can talk openly. Individuals seek my help for a variety of reasons: in order to resolve emotional unrest due to relationship issues, to gain insight into themselves and develop more adaptive ways of coping with psychological conflicts and life challenges, and to learn cognitive/behavioral strategies to better manage physical pain, anxiety, depression and stress. My goal is to work with a person who is typically in a great deal of emotional pain at the outset, but through our collaboration, is then able to make healthier choices that enhance rather than hurt their life.
Clients see me as a warm, nonthreatening person with whom they can talk openly. Individuals seek my help for a variety of reasons: in order to resolve emotional unrest due to relationship issues, to gain insight into themselves and develop more adaptive ways of coping with psychological conflicts and life challenges, and to learn cognitive/behavioral strategies to better manage physical pain, anxiety, depression and stress. My goal is to work with a person who is typically in a great deal of emotional pain at the outset, but through our collaboration, is then able to make healthier choices that enhance rather than hurt their life.
![Photo of Kelly N Craney, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78a7ec34-f2dc-4d01-9868-a27cb2c5e465/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly N Craney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19111
The majority of my clients are people who have struggled to find relief from traditional medicine (and traditional approaches to addressing complex ailments/struggles). I am grateful that these individuals find relief here. Many of my patients have been able to resolve complex challenges in just a few months of biweekly sessions. Areas of specialized care & success include, but are not limited to: trauma, chronic pain, nerve damage, complex medical conditions, grief, spiritual development, struggles with weight, stomach/GI issues, insomnia, anxiety, depression, medication intolerance, and some areas of addiction.
The majority of my clients are people who have struggled to find relief from traditional medicine (and traditional approaches to addressing complex ailments/struggles). I am grateful that these individuals find relief here. Many of my patients have been able to resolve complex challenges in just a few months of biweekly sessions. Areas of specialized care & success include, but are not limited to: trauma, chronic pain, nerve damage, complex medical conditions, grief, spiritual development, struggles with weight, stomach/GI issues, insomnia, anxiety, depression, medication intolerance, and some areas of addiction.
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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.