Chronic Pain Therapists in Carrollton, TX
![Photo of Melody Pruitt - Melody Pruitt, LPC- Associate; Kathleen Mills-LPCS, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74a4cdeb-dbfe-4cec-bb72-a1f91c5577a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melody Pruitt, LPC- Associate; Kathleen Mills-LPCS
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75006
Some of my current specialties are working with those currently dealing with anxiety/depression issues, suicidal ideations, self-harm behaviors, chronic pain, chronic illness (autoimmune disorders) and vaccine injuries!.
**I am currently accepting new clients!** My yearning passion and desire has always been to help others, in every way possible, and the characteristics a genuine counselor should have has always come naturally to me. Overall, mental health has such a negative stigma in our society but I have faith this perspective WILL change. My main priority is to walk side-by-side with each client as they navigate their way towards wholeness & healing (mind, body & spirit) while emphasizing the importance of growth and finding/implementing healthier ways to cope/positively maintain their mental health and life.
Some of my current specialties are working with those currently dealing with anxiety/depression issues, suicidal ideations, self-harm behaviors, chronic pain, chronic illness (autoimmune disorders) and vaccine injuries!.
**I am currently accepting new clients!** My yearning passion and desire has always been to help others, in every way possible, and the characteristics a genuine counselor should have has always come naturally to me. Overall, mental health has such a negative stigma in our society but I have faith this perspective WILL change. My main priority is to walk side-by-side with each client as they navigate their way towards wholeness & healing (mind, body & spirit) while emphasizing the importance of growth and finding/implementing healthier ways to cope/positively maintain their mental health and life.
![Photo of Matt Edge, NCC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b709b13e-5353-4b9b-827e-a2b56ef556ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matt Edge
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75007
Although I will see anyone who is brave enough to seek help, my areas of focus are men's issues, stress, anxiety, depression, anger management, grief, loss, LGBTQIA+, and chronic pain.
Before I start, I want you to know that you are not broken beyond repair, you are not too damaged, and you seeking help says more about your strength than anything else. Being on Psychology Today is a massive first step, and even if it is not with me, I genuinely hope you continue to reach out to professionals on here to get the help you deserve. That being said, I offer online sessions for anyone in the state of Texas, as well as in-person sessions in Carrolton. My ideal client is anyone who is willing to be honest, genuine, and vulnerable about the struggles and concerns occurring in their life.
Although I will see anyone who is brave enough to seek help, my areas of focus are men's issues, stress, anxiety, depression, anger management, grief, loss, LGBTQIA+, and chronic pain.
Before I start, I want you to know that you are not broken beyond repair, you are not too damaged, and you seeking help says more about your strength than anything else. Being on Psychology Today is a massive first step, and even if it is not with me, I genuinely hope you continue to reach out to professionals on here to get the help you deserve. That being said, I offer online sessions for anyone in the state of Texas, as well as in-person sessions in Carrolton. My ideal client is anyone who is willing to be honest, genuine, and vulnerable about the struggles and concerns occurring in their life.
![Photo of Shay Wilkinson, LCSW, CCM, ACHP-SW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7d03e0c-2ea6-4779-b932-e19b5afebfb9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shay Wilkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM, ACHP-SW
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75007
I understand the pain of emotional wounds and life transitions.
I specialize in helping clients heal from emotional wounds, particularly those caused by narcissistic relationships. Whether you're navigating the pain of a breakup or divorce, dealing with grief and loss, or trying to redefine your goals and identity, I’m here to support you on your path to self-discovery and personal growth. My goal is to help you regain stability and find fulfillment. I also offer guidance for managing depression, anxiety, and other life transitions, providing a comprehensive approach that empowers you to create a balanced and meaningful life.
I understand the pain of emotional wounds and life transitions.
I specialize in helping clients heal from emotional wounds, particularly those caused by narcissistic relationships. Whether you're navigating the pain of a breakup or divorce, dealing with grief and loss, or trying to redefine your goals and identity, I’m here to support you on your path to self-discovery and personal growth. My goal is to help you regain stability and find fulfillment. I also offer guidance for managing depression, anxiety, and other life transitions, providing a comprehensive approach that empowers you to create a balanced and meaningful life.
![Photo of Sara Watkins - Resilient Mind, MS, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0eb66fa5-e53f-4982-8fbd-b8b9447fc1da/4/320x400.png)
Resilient Mind
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75010 (Online Only)
Resilience is the ability to stand firm against adversity and bounce back from difficult life events. Resilience does not mean a person is spared from experiencing stress, emotional upheaval, and adversity. Resilience involves the ability to work through emotional pain and suffering. As a counselor, I help teachers, teens, and young adults to build resilience. My goal is to help clients gain the ability to bounce back from any obstacle or challenge and thrive in life. I believe in treating the whole person from an integrative holistic perspective. This is accomplished by tailoring the therapy to the individual.
Resilience is the ability to stand firm against adversity and bounce back from difficult life events. Resilience does not mean a person is spared from experiencing stress, emotional upheaval, and adversity. Resilience involves the ability to work through emotional pain and suffering. As a counselor, I help teachers, teens, and young adults to build resilience. My goal is to help clients gain the ability to bounce back from any obstacle or challenge and thrive in life. I believe in treating the whole person from an integrative holistic perspective. This is accomplished by tailoring the therapy to the individual.
![Photo of Jena Johnson Sternberg, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18adf4a3-c919-4a7b-8a95-dc331a488f0a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jena Johnson Sternberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75010
Jena offers an integrative counseling style that goes beyond traditional therapy. One will likely instantly feel comfort as a result of her warmth and authenticity. She provides a compassionate and supportive environment that fosters growth and healing. Jena has experience working with individuals who suffer with depression, anxiety, communication issues, women’s issues, chronic pain and trauma.
Jena offers an integrative counseling style that goes beyond traditional therapy. One will likely instantly feel comfort as a result of her warmth and authenticity. She provides a compassionate and supportive environment that fosters growth and healing. Jena has experience working with individuals who suffer with depression, anxiety, communication issues, women’s issues, chronic pain and trauma.
![Photo of Mcp Counseling - MCP Counseling, MA, LPC-S, CST, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bad05bad-1dcc-4ae2-8af3-6d9e7b2c3185/2/320x400.jpeg)
MCP Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75007
Online sessions and in-office sessions are available. We provide a nonjudgemental environment for you to move forward in if you have decided to work on yourself or your relationship. We work with clients 5+ that are dealing with abuse, stress, anxiety, and depression. Life can be overwhelming for individuals and families that are trying to do life on life's terms. Internal and external battles are not easy to face but with counseling, you do not have to do it alone. The staff at MCP Counseling is willing to help you learn how to create a balance and authentic self. You are not alone.
Online sessions and in-office sessions are available. We provide a nonjudgemental environment for you to move forward in if you have decided to work on yourself or your relationship. We work with clients 5+ that are dealing with abuse, stress, anxiety, and depression. Life can be overwhelming for individuals and families that are trying to do life on life's terms. Internal and external battles are not easy to face but with counseling, you do not have to do it alone. The staff at MCP Counseling is willing to help you learn how to create a balance and authentic self. You are not alone.
Diane Lindgren
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75006
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a private practice in Carrollton and Plano, Texas. Work with individuals, couples, and families experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, work issues, relationship issues, grief and loss, divorce recovery, anger, family of origin issues, and trauma. I believe in developing a positive and helpful partnership with clients during the therapy process. I believe each client should be treated with respect and dignity.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a private practice in Carrollton and Plano, Texas. Work with individuals, couples, and families experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, work issues, relationship issues, grief and loss, divorce recovery, anger, family of origin issues, and trauma. I believe in developing a positive and helpful partnership with clients during the therapy process. I believe each client should be treated with respect and dignity.
![Photo of Madison Vidican, MA, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5b705a6-dc54-414a-ba7d-a50c22688026/2/320x400.png)
Madison Vidican
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75010
I am so excited you are here! Seeking support can be challenging and overwhelming-You deserve support through all the ups, downs, and neutrals that life can throw at us in ways that feel connecting and authentic for you. You are a whole and complex person! Together, let's explore your environment, patterns, and behaviors with self-compassion to discover which pathways in life bring you the most fulfillment. I am proud to work from an intersectional, trauma-informed, culturally responsive framework to best meet the needs of diverse populations.
I am so excited you are here! Seeking support can be challenging and overwhelming-You deserve support through all the ups, downs, and neutrals that life can throw at us in ways that feel connecting and authentic for you. You are a whole and complex person! Together, let's explore your environment, patterns, and behaviors with self-compassion to discover which pathways in life bring you the most fulfillment. I am proud to work from an intersectional, trauma-informed, culturally responsive framework to best meet the needs of diverse populations.
![Photo of James H Basham, PhD, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/462b145b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The ideal client that I like to meet with is someone who desires help and wisdom for their situation. They are also someone who needs encouragement, direction and prayer. No matter what type of situation they are going through I am here to help and come along side of them. I understand that life can be very difficult and sometimes we find ourselves in situations that we never believed we would be in. It is this client whom I like to meet with so that we can work toward a better path for them.
The ideal client that I like to meet with is someone who desires help and wisdom for their situation. They are also someone who needs encouragement, direction and prayer. No matter what type of situation they are going through I am here to help and come along side of them. I understand that life can be very difficult and sometimes we find ourselves in situations that we never believed we would be in. It is this client whom I like to meet with so that we can work toward a better path for them.
![Photo of Mariana Ormeno, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4aa0c9c-f8ef-4a72-8d1a-0e91a8c6e1b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mariana Ormeno
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , LPC-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75011
Hi! :) Are you seeking to be kinder to yourself and enhance self-compassion? Are you looking for a therapist that will empower you through a relational, multicultural and intersectional feminist perspective? If this sounds like you, I'd love to co-create a space with you where you can feel safe and ready to explore various aspects of yourself. I do keep in mind how systems of oppression impact people differently based on their identities as well as their experiences. You will be invited to unlearn self-limiting beliefs that you have been conditioned to believe in and you will have the opportunity to reclaim your authentic self.
Hi! :) Are you seeking to be kinder to yourself and enhance self-compassion? Are you looking for a therapist that will empower you through a relational, multicultural and intersectional feminist perspective? If this sounds like you, I'd love to co-create a space with you where you can feel safe and ready to explore various aspects of yourself. I do keep in mind how systems of oppression impact people differently based on their identities as well as their experiences. You will be invited to unlearn self-limiting beliefs that you have been conditioned to believe in and you will have the opportunity to reclaim your authentic self.
![Photo of Stephanie Paredes, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51ee8365-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Paredes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75010 (Online Only)
Something seems–off. Your energy is low, or you’re staying in bed just a little bit longer. It’s easier for you to listen to your inner critic than to accept compassion and empathy. You can’t remember the last time you felt relaxed or content with yourself. It’s harder to find the words to express your emotions and experience. You don’t ask for help since you are the one that no one has to worry about, because you take care of everyone else. You are in need of a different kind of support, one that helps you heal and learn to live again. Email me today for more information!
Something seems–off. Your energy is low, or you’re staying in bed just a little bit longer. It’s easier for you to listen to your inner critic than to accept compassion and empathy. You can’t remember the last time you felt relaxed or content with yourself. It’s harder to find the words to express your emotions and experience. You don’t ask for help since you are the one that no one has to worry about, because you take care of everyone else. You are in need of a different kind of support, one that helps you heal and learn to live again. Email me today for more information!
![Photo of Anne Schanz - Anne Schanz, PhD, LPC, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d5f655b-064f-4627-ba70-e334c2a70b92/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anne Schanz, PhD, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75006 (Online Only)
My goal is your self-acceptance which is the foundation for your happiness. We achieve this together as I assist you to see and challenge hidden assumptions about yourself that are creating your self-doubts, harsh inner criticisms, and paralyzing fears- the root causes of your self-sabotage, self-destructive patterns, and dysfunctional relationships. You are not to blame, it is hidden beliefs that are blocking you from creating the joyful life and healthy relationships you crave. You can achieve self-acceptance and the confidence to create the life you want by eliminating your crippling hidden blocks.
My goal is your self-acceptance which is the foundation for your happiness. We achieve this together as I assist you to see and challenge hidden assumptions about yourself that are creating your self-doubts, harsh inner criticisms, and paralyzing fears- the root causes of your self-sabotage, self-destructive patterns, and dysfunctional relationships. You are not to blame, it is hidden beliefs that are blocking you from creating the joyful life and healthy relationships you crave. You can achieve self-acceptance and the confidence to create the life you want by eliminating your crippling hidden blocks.
![Photo of Sharon Gayle - Sharon Gayle Counseling, MA, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf63151-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon Gayle Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75006 (Online Only)
Sometimes, we find ourselves on an unfamiliar road and traveling towards a frightening future. We fear what may lie before us because the road is dark. Going back is not an option; going forward is strange and fearful. We feel stuck, lost, lonely--and hurting. If this is your experience, you don't have to navigate the journey alone. Sense the possibility of someone coming along side you who is gifted in the art of healing, someone skilled and compassionate.
Sometimes, we find ourselves on an unfamiliar road and traveling towards a frightening future. We fear what may lie before us because the road is dark. Going back is not an option; going forward is strange and fearful. We feel stuck, lost, lonely--and hurting. If this is your experience, you don't have to navigate the journey alone. Sense the possibility of someone coming along side you who is gifted in the art of healing, someone skilled and compassionate.
![Photo of Amanda Noyes, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8828ad2-e9b6-4502-9322-7280f803f391/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Noyes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75006
The purpose of Finding Freedom Therapy is to treat trauma and grief from every angle in order to promote healing and increase resilience. We utilize evidence-based therapies to treat trauma and loss reactively as well as proactively; our mission is to help not only after it has taken place, but also if it has an ongoing role in your life. While we work with a wide array of clients, we specialize in working with military members, veterans, police officers, firefighters, medical personnel—all those who deal with trauma and tragedy on a daily basis. We also provide dedicated services to parents grieving a loss after perinatal demise.
The purpose of Finding Freedom Therapy is to treat trauma and grief from every angle in order to promote healing and increase resilience. We utilize evidence-based therapies to treat trauma and loss reactively as well as proactively; our mission is to help not only after it has taken place, but also if it has an ongoing role in your life. While we work with a wide array of clients, we specialize in working with military members, veterans, police officers, firefighters, medical personnel—all those who deal with trauma and tragedy on a daily basis. We also provide dedicated services to parents grieving a loss after perinatal demise.
![Photo of Suzie Abercrombie, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5bcda5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who enjoys working with adults, providing counseling services to individuals who want to explore and improve their current level of functioning. Most of my clients have had issues with depression, grief and loss, difficulty recovering from traumatic life events, anxiety and panic, stress management, anger management, low self esteem, substance abuse, and self harming behavior.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who enjoys working with adults, providing counseling services to individuals who want to explore and improve their current level of functioning. Most of my clients have had issues with depression, grief and loss, difficulty recovering from traumatic life events, anxiety and panic, stress management, anger management, low self esteem, substance abuse, and self harming behavior.
![Photo of Jim Ming, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ae969da-15fc-44f0-b61d-f10020440b1a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have deep experience helping people with difficult relationships and issues in business. Now, I help people like you find solutions for life changes, relationships, stress, trauma, aging, career issues, depression, grief, and anxiety. I specialize in working with corporate survivors, stressed-out HR professionals and attorneys, and other white collar professionals. I frequently work with men’s issues, first responders, seniors and elderly, LGBTQ affirming counseling, and career issues / work relationships. I am EMDR trained.
I have deep experience helping people with difficult relationships and issues in business. Now, I help people like you find solutions for life changes, relationships, stress, trauma, aging, career issues, depression, grief, and anxiety. I specialize in working with corporate survivors, stressed-out HR professionals and attorneys, and other white collar professionals. I frequently work with men’s issues, first responders, seniors and elderly, LGBTQ affirming counseling, and career issues / work relationships. I am EMDR trained.
![Photo of Jennifer Y Namkoong, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d93b07d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Y Namkoong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75006 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) and a School Counselor with over 25+ years of experience and specializing in working with individuals, couples and families. We will work collaboratively together to help you find alternative and healthy ways to cope with disorders and symptoms such as anxiety (panic attacks), depression, grief/loss, and other mental health issues and addictions which can hinder success in personal relationships, schools/academics and/or employment settings. I am extensively trained in Trauma Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Therapies.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) and a School Counselor with over 25+ years of experience and specializing in working with individuals, couples and families. We will work collaboratively together to help you find alternative and healthy ways to cope with disorders and symptoms such as anxiety (panic attacks), depression, grief/loss, and other mental health issues and addictions which can hinder success in personal relationships, schools/academics and/or employment settings. I am extensively trained in Trauma Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Therapies.
![Photo of Jeanne C Selby, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb4ec33-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Psychologist providing counseling to clients in the Carrollton/Farmers Branch/Addison area. I believe in using research-proven techniques to provide the quickest relief possible in a caring environment. In my 23 years of professional experience, I have worked with community members, college students, and chronic pain patients. I have extensive experience in treating adults and seniors with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, pain disorders, and chronic illness.
I am a Licensed Psychologist providing counseling to clients in the Carrollton/Farmers Branch/Addison area. I believe in using research-proven techniques to provide the quickest relief possible in a caring environment. In my 23 years of professional experience, I have worked with community members, college students, and chronic pain patients. I have extensive experience in treating adults and seniors with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, pain disorders, and chronic illness.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Sabrina S Austin, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8a59374-5023-4ce0-a106-75ea50cf61d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are your health issues overwhelming your life? Living with chronic medical issues like pain can be isolating, frightening, and dejecting. As a health psychologist, I offer hope, knowledge, and support to individuals struggling with complex challenges. Every day, scientific advancements illuminate the integral relationship between mind and body. Effective treatment of one requires caring for both. In working with me, you can expect kindness, humor, acceptance, and a lot of mixed metaphors. I hope that, through our work together, you can find sources of light on your darkest days.
Are your health issues overwhelming your life? Living with chronic medical issues like pain can be isolating, frightening, and dejecting. As a health psychologist, I offer hope, knowledge, and support to individuals struggling with complex challenges. Every day, scientific advancements illuminate the integral relationship between mind and body. Effective treatment of one requires caring for both. In working with me, you can expect kindness, humor, acceptance, and a lot of mixed metaphors. I hope that, through our work together, you can find sources of light on your darkest days.
![Photo of Gina R Carter, LPC, MAMF, MARE, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d0ff2e5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gina R Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAMF, MARE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
I have experience working with adults with serious illness, helping them to process the multiple losses, and at times trauma, associated with emotional strain, diagnosis and often repeated treatments.
Looking for relief and overwhelmed with where to even begin? Take the first step in unraveling the chaos as we develop a plan that helps restore your hope once again. My passion centers around working with adults who have experienced loss, trauma, mood disorders, and relationship difficulties. Together we develop strategies that equip you to move through the pain in your life, so you can face the future with renewed confidence.
I have experience working with adults with serious illness, helping them to process the multiple losses, and at times trauma, associated with emotional strain, diagnosis and often repeated treatments.
Looking for relief and overwhelmed with where to even begin? Take the first step in unraveling the chaos as we develop a plan that helps restore your hope once again. My passion centers around working with adults who have experienced loss, trauma, mood disorders, and relationship difficulties. Together we develop strategies that equip you to move through the pain in your life, so you can face the future with renewed confidence.
See more therapy options for Carrollton
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Carrollton
- Addison
- Coppell
- Farmers Branch
- Flower Mound
- Frisco
- Highland Village
- Irving
- Lewisville
- Little Elm
- Plano
- Richardson
- The Colony
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.