Chronic Pain Therapists in Port Orchard, WA

Photo of Amy Ryan, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amy Ryan
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98367  (Online Only)
I have a professional interest in working with individuals living with chronic pain and chronic illness, those struggling with work-life balance, and those experiencing major life transitions.
Therapy offers an opportunity for discovery, self-reflection, and ultimately transformation. I approach the therapeutic process with curiosity, genuineness, and compassion. Theoretically speaking, I draw from cognitive-behavioral and existential perspectives to help conceptualize your life journey and challenges. My overall style is warm and direct while honoring and recognizing the expertise you bring on your life to the counseling process.
I have a professional interest in working with individuals living with chronic pain and chronic illness, those struggling with work-life balance, and those experiencing major life transitions.
Therapy offers an opportunity for discovery, self-reflection, and ultimately transformation. I approach the therapeutic process with curiosity, genuineness, and compassion. Theoretically speaking, I draw from cognitive-behavioral and existential perspectives to help conceptualize your life journey and challenges. My overall style is warm and direct while honoring and recognizing the expertise you bring on your life to the counseling process.
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Photo of Erin Daniels - Emerald Behavioral Health, PLLC, MSW, MA, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emerald Behavioral Health, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366
I focus on wellness instead of illness and look at the patient's strengths to ensure the best life possible.
I have extensive knowledge working with patients with psychosis, substance use, and at high risk of suicide. Focusing on harm reduction, healthy coping skills, and recovery to live the best possible life. With my vast knowledge of the mental health system, I use various modalities toward treatment and don't believe a one size fit all in regard to interventions. I focus on a holistic approach to treatment as you are the expert in your own life. I am here to assist, listen and guide you towards your goals and dreams.
I focus on wellness instead of illness and look at the patient's strengths to ensure the best life possible.
I have extensive knowledge working with patients with psychosis, substance use, and at high risk of suicide. Focusing on harm reduction, healthy coping skills, and recovery to live the best possible life. With my vast knowledge of the mental health system, I use various modalities toward treatment and don't believe a one size fit all in regard to interventions. I focus on a holistic approach to treatment as you are the expert in your own life. I am here to assist, listen and guide you towards your goals and dreams.
(360) 515-3234 View (360) 515-3234
Photo of Lori Lindholm, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Lindholm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98367  (Online Only)
Life can feel heavy at times, especially when you’re carrying the weight of the past and trying to find your way forward. I specialize in helping individuals navigate the often overwhelming challenges of trauma, life transitions, grief and loss, toxic relationship patterns, and low self-esteem.
Life can feel heavy at times, especially when you’re carrying the weight of the past and trying to find your way forward. I specialize in helping individuals navigate the often overwhelming challenges of trauma, life transitions, grief and loss, toxic relationship patterns, and low self-esteem.
(206) 752-4647 View (206) 752-4647
Photo of Wade Lmhc Walter - Wade Walter, MA, LMHC, LLC, MA, LMHC, BC-TMH, CCATP, CSTIP, Counselor
Wade Walter, MA, LMHC, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, BC-TMH, CCATP, CSTIP
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98367  (Online Only)
I have over 35 years of broad and rich experience in mental health. Anxiety, mood disorders and personality disorders are particular areas of specialization for me. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Provider and specialize also in treatment of Personality Disorders. Using Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfulness technique my clients achieve rapid results through exploration of how their thoughts effect their emotional experiences. I work with individuals and couples. I am also a Board Certified-Telemental Health Provider and a qualified supervisor for purposes of licensure.
I have over 35 years of broad and rich experience in mental health. Anxiety, mood disorders and personality disorders are particular areas of specialization for me. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Provider and specialize also in treatment of Personality Disorders. Using Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfulness technique my clients achieve rapid results through exploration of how their thoughts effect their emotional experiences. I work with individuals and couples. I am also a Board Certified-Telemental Health Provider and a qualified supervisor for purposes of licensure.
(360) 329-9876 View (360) 329-9876
Photo of Mireille Reece - Peninsula Psychological Center, Inc., P.S., PsyD, Psychologist
Peninsula Psychological Center, Inc., P.S.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366
Life presents many challenges. Our 23 licensed clinical psychologists, social workers, marriage & family therapists and mental health counselors at Peninsula Psychological Center, Inc., P.S. are ready to assist you. We work with people from age 3-90, with experienced therapists in our multispecialty center, helping our clients and their families to clarify their specific concerns and to achieve their goals in therapy. We often help people with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, panic, grief, insomnia & relationship problems. Individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, and psychological assessment services are available.
Life presents many challenges. Our 23 licensed clinical psychologists, social workers, marriage & family therapists and mental health counselors at Peninsula Psychological Center, Inc., P.S. are ready to assist you. We work with people from age 3-90, with experienced therapists in our multispecialty center, helping our clients and their families to clarify their specific concerns and to achieve their goals in therapy. We often help people with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, panic, grief, insomnia & relationship problems. Individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, and psychological assessment services are available.
(360) 895-1955 View (360) 895-1955
Photo of Nadya Kosanovskaya, MA LMFT, SUDP, CMHS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nadya Kosanovskaya
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT, SUDP, CMHS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98366
I am a Master’s level Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT) and co-occurring disorders therapist, who is trained in Family Systems and Substance Use/Dependency (SUDP) with the background in Human Biochemistry. I practice with a Holistic view and will focus on your overall well-being and not only emotional and mental health. My specialties are anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, insecurities and stress management. I support my clients and families on a level that is approachable, sensitive & humane, working with employees from; Google, Microsoft, FaceBook, AMZ, Boeing, Starbucks + others. Video sessions or in person meetings.
I am a Master’s level Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT) and co-occurring disorders therapist, who is trained in Family Systems and Substance Use/Dependency (SUDP) with the background in Human Biochemistry. I practice with a Holistic view and will focus on your overall well-being and not only emotional and mental health. My specialties are anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, insecurities and stress management. I support my clients and families on a level that is approachable, sensitive & humane, working with employees from; Google, Microsoft, FaceBook, AMZ, Boeing, Starbucks + others. Video sessions or in person meetings.
(253) 300-2889 View (253) 300-2889
Photo of Elizeth J. Chavez, PhD, MA, LPC, LMHC, Psychologist
Elizeth J. Chavez
Psychologist, PhD, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I have more than 12 years providing psychotherapy and psychological assessments to children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in treating PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, sleep problems, OCD, and various anxiety disorders. I also specialize in psychological diagnostic evaluations for ADHD, learning disabilities, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and immigration evaluations (N-648). My treatment entails a collaborative approach built on a strong therapeutic alliance using evidenced based modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I have more than 12 years providing psychotherapy and psychological assessments to children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in treating PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, sleep problems, OCD, and various anxiety disorders. I also specialize in psychological diagnostic evaluations for ADHD, learning disabilities, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and immigration evaluations (N-648). My treatment entails a collaborative approach built on a strong therapeutic alliance using evidenced based modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy.
(830) 541-7902 View (830) 541-7902
Photo of Gail Henricksen, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Gail Henricksen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98366
As a systemic therapist, I am dedicated to guiding individuals, couples, and families through their inner complexities, fostering healing, growth, and self-discovery. I approach clients holistically, considering their relationships and connections using the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model as a foundation. This dynamic model identifies and works with inner subpersonalities, promoting self-compassion and self-acceptance. I tailor this approach to individual needs, incorporating additional methods when necessary, fostering transformative change at personal and relational levels.
As a systemic therapist, I am dedicated to guiding individuals, couples, and families through their inner complexities, fostering healing, growth, and self-discovery. I approach clients holistically, considering their relationships and connections using the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model as a foundation. This dynamic model identifies and works with inner subpersonalities, promoting self-compassion and self-acceptance. I tailor this approach to individual needs, incorporating additional methods when necessary, fostering transformative change at personal and relational levels.
(253) 285-1115 View (253) 285-1115
Photo of Kassandrea E Manuele, LMHC, Counselor
Kassandrea E Manuele
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Orchard, WA 98366
In a world that can often feel heavy with forces pushing and pulling us downward in so many directions it can feel all too easy to lose track of your true self. Feeling confused and asking how did I get here? Or why me? Or, I just want to get back to myself, but I don’t even know who I am anymore. You are not alone and there is a way. I work with individuals who struggle with these same questions. Questions that arise from the struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, attention, autism, and others. My counseling services focus on addressing the integrated person.
In a world that can often feel heavy with forces pushing and pulling us downward in so many directions it can feel all too easy to lose track of your true self. Feeling confused and asking how did I get here? Or why me? Or, I just want to get back to myself, but I don’t even know who I am anymore. You are not alone and there is a way. I work with individuals who struggle with these same questions. Questions that arise from the struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, attention, autism, and others. My counseling services focus on addressing the integrated person.
(253) 900-2430 View (253) 900-2430
Photo of Peter Elliot Thomas, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Peter Elliot Thomas
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My goal as your therapist is to help you develop a deep sense of your authentic self, and to cultivate your own strength and confidence in your ability to handle what life throws at you. We will work together primarily through the lens of Internal Family Systems (IFS), an intuitive and evidence-based approach to therapy. Have you ever used the phrase "Part of me feels..." to describe an internal conflict? IFS takes the idea of "parts" and provides a framework for healing the wounded parts of yourself. By approaching these "parts" with compassion and understanding, we create new space for you to live your life free of old burdens.
My goal as your therapist is to help you develop a deep sense of your authentic self, and to cultivate your own strength and confidence in your ability to handle what life throws at you. We will work together primarily through the lens of Internal Family Systems (IFS), an intuitive and evidence-based approach to therapy. Have you ever used the phrase "Part of me feels..." to describe an internal conflict? IFS takes the idea of "parts" and provides a framework for healing the wounded parts of yourself. By approaching these "parts" with compassion and understanding, we create new space for you to live your life free of old burdens.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Daniel Franklin Cummings - Daniel Franklin Cummings PS, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Daniel Franklin Cummings PS
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vashon, WA 98070  (Online Only)
I work with my clients to make sense and meaning out of their life experiences. The search for meaning is a powerful tool for dealing with trauma, loss, pain, anxiety and depression. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients make meaning of the moments in life in order to live a reach and meaningful life.
I work with my clients to make sense and meaning out of their life experiences. The search for meaning is a powerful tool for dealing with trauma, loss, pain, anxiety and depression. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients make meaning of the moments in life in order to live a reach and meaningful life.
(206) 504-2824 View (206) 504-2824
Photo of Victoria Hudson, LMHC, Counselor
Victoria Hudson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bremerton, WA 98310  (Online Only)
My counseling approach prioritizes the uniqueness of the individual, focusing beyond pain & trauma, inviting an honest exploration into your story.
Struggling with difficulties from your childhood or from recent past experiences? Feeling overwhelmed and needing new perspectives? Have uncomfortable experiences that seem to linger, impacting your emotional or physical well-being? Are you seeking ways to develop authenticity in your life and experience more confidence in your relationships? In this space we collaborate, exploring new ways to step into being "fully human", instead of pretending through the discomforts that life has to offer. I look forward to connecting with you soon. Feel free to email me to get set up with a free video consultation.
My counseling approach prioritizes the uniqueness of the individual, focusing beyond pain & trauma, inviting an honest exploration into your story.
Struggling with difficulties from your childhood or from recent past experiences? Feeling overwhelmed and needing new perspectives? Have uncomfortable experiences that seem to linger, impacting your emotional or physical well-being? Are you seeking ways to develop authenticity in your life and experience more confidence in your relationships? In this space we collaborate, exploring new ways to step into being "fully human", instead of pretending through the discomforts that life has to offer. I look forward to connecting with you soon. Feel free to email me to get set up with a free video consultation.
(360) 727-0084 View (360) 727-0084
Photo of Celina Larson, LICSW, ACADC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Celina Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACADC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bremerton, WA 98337
I work with people to find a path to less stress, more enjoyment & pleasure in life. Working together we can develop & enhance the experiences of your life to feel more whole and fulfilling. Create a life more satisfying; transmute stress causing difficulty into energy for working towards your goals. Sometimes we are stuck in life situations that block creativity and success. Goals often include happiness, pain relief (physical, mental, spiritual, emotional), finding passion, achievement, self-awareness, productivity, insight, more socialization, healthy relationships (a new one), freedom, joy, meaning, and contentment with life.
I work with people to find a path to less stress, more enjoyment & pleasure in life. Working together we can develop & enhance the experiences of your life to feel more whole and fulfilling. Create a life more satisfying; transmute stress causing difficulty into energy for working towards your goals. Sometimes we are stuck in life situations that block creativity and success. Goals often include happiness, pain relief (physical, mental, spiritual, emotional), finding passion, achievement, self-awareness, productivity, insight, more socialization, healthy relationships (a new one), freedom, joy, meaning, and contentment with life.
(208) 295-0914 View (208) 295-0914
Photo of Susan Baum, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Susan Baum
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
This work is especially helpful if you are dealing with depression, anxiety, difficulties around intimacy, life changes, trauma recovery, or significant physical symptoms such as chronic pain or illness.
Psychological patterns that constrict or inhibit us also live inside our bodies, in the ways we breathe, hold tension, or respond to stress. Working therapeutically with both the body and mind offers a profound potential for changing deeply held ways of thinking, feeling, and being in the world. Therapy with me is not just talk, but truly holistic in exploring the deeper layers of experience through attention to the body, sensation, impulse, imagery, and emotion. This process helps to get you out of your head and into your body, and generates lasting changes in how you feel and experience yourself.
This work is especially helpful if you are dealing with depression, anxiety, difficulties around intimacy, life changes, trauma recovery, or significant physical symptoms such as chronic pain or illness.
Psychological patterns that constrict or inhibit us also live inside our bodies, in the ways we breathe, hold tension, or respond to stress. Working therapeutically with both the body and mind offers a profound potential for changing deeply held ways of thinking, feeling, and being in the world. Therapy with me is not just talk, but truly holistic in exploring the deeper layers of experience through attention to the body, sensation, impulse, imagery, and emotion. This process helps to get you out of your head and into your body, and generates lasting changes in how you feel and experience yourself.
(206) 681-1397 View (206) 681-1397
Photo of Jennifer Davies, LMHC, EMDR, MA, Counselor
Jennifer Davies
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98332
I understand the pain of trauma and know the devastating effects it can have physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually.
Healing often begins in the presence of another who can bear witness to the hurt and heartache endured. No one should have to walk the road of depression, anxiety, and trauma alone. I work collaboratively with clients to provide therapeutic services that best meet client's goals. I work primarily with adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.​ As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), I provide a safe and confidential environment of unconditional acceptance for every client.
I understand the pain of trauma and know the devastating effects it can have physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually.
Healing often begins in the presence of another who can bear witness to the hurt and heartache endured. No one should have to walk the road of depression, anxiety, and trauma alone. I work collaboratively with clients to provide therapeutic services that best meet client's goals. I work primarily with adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.​ As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), I provide a safe and confidential environment of unconditional acceptance for every client.
(253) 352-3022 View (253) 352-3022
Photo of Alison Draisin, PsyD,  LMHC, Counselor
Alison Draisin
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98332  (Online Only)
If you are interested in exploring the use of psychedelics and cannabis for chronic pain, psychological distress, or transformative experience please contact our office.
** I am ONLY accepting new patients seeking cannabis or psychedelic psychotherapy.** I do have supervisees (MA level and LMHCA) that work under me with availability for talk therapy. I work with clients of all ages who are open minded and looking to explore alternative modalities of treatment for depression, anxiety, or trauma. I work in an integrative medical clinic where there is collaboration with medical (palliative care) doctors, naturopathic doctors, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. Our clinic offers advanced cutting edge integrative medical care.
If you are interested in exploring the use of psychedelics and cannabis for chronic pain, psychological distress, or transformative experience please contact our office.
** I am ONLY accepting new patients seeking cannabis or psychedelic psychotherapy.** I do have supervisees (MA level and LMHCA) that work under me with availability for talk therapy. I work with clients of all ages who are open minded and looking to explore alternative modalities of treatment for depression, anxiety, or trauma. I work in an integrative medical clinic where there is collaboration with medical (palliative care) doctors, naturopathic doctors, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. Our clinic offers advanced cutting edge integrative medical care.
(206) 420-1321 View (206) 420-1321
Photo of Danny Donohue - Dr. Danny, MA, DMin, MHC, Counselor
Dr. Danny
Counselor, MA, DMin, MHC
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Who, really, is able to hear, feel, and see you . . . bless and name your glory and shame? Only those who continue to do their own courageous work of daring to be truly heard, felt, and seen. Simple but not easy! The journey, however, is worth it. Life changing . . . with the right guide, i.e., presence. A favorite quote comes to mind: "We all come into this world looking for someone looking for us." If that resonates with your heart (courageous or not) then I hope to hear from you. We might just be a good fit? Please email me at: drdanny(at)doc-danny(dot com). Or call: two-zero-six...four-two-nine...four-five-seven-nine.
Who, really, is able to hear, feel, and see you . . . bless and name your glory and shame? Only those who continue to do their own courageous work of daring to be truly heard, felt, and seen. Simple but not easy! The journey, however, is worth it. Life changing . . . with the right guide, i.e., presence. A favorite quote comes to mind: "We all come into this world looking for someone looking for us." If that resonates with your heart (courageous or not) then I hope to hear from you. We might just be a good fit? Please email me at: drdanny(at)doc-danny(dot com). Or call: two-zero-six...four-two-nine...four-five-seven-nine.
(206) 429-4579 View (206) 429-4579
Photo of Amber Ford - Neupathway LLC (Amber Ford) , EdD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neupathway LLC (Amber Ford)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bremerton, WA 98311  (Online Only)
We all need support throughout our lives, and you may be looking for an additional resource to help you process lived experiences, problem-solve, or understand yourself in a deeper way. You may be struggling with anxiety, the challenges of caregiving, work stress and burnout, relationship challenges, or working through grief, loss, or bereavement. You want to engage in healthy coping skills and develop self-care habits to better support the vision you have for your life.
We all need support throughout our lives, and you may be looking for an additional resource to help you process lived experiences, problem-solve, or understand yourself in a deeper way. You may be struggling with anxiety, the challenges of caregiving, work stress and burnout, relationship challenges, or working through grief, loss, or bereavement. You want to engage in healthy coping skills and develop self-care habits to better support the vision you have for your life.
(509) 400-4788 View (509) 400-4788
Photo of John W Reynolds, PhD, Psychologist
John W Reynolds
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bremerton, WA 98310
I am currently accepting new clients for either in-person or remote diagnostic assessment, after which I can provide links to specialists for ongoing treatment. My goal is to understand your needs and help connect you to appropriate services. I provide assessments for teens (14+), adults, and couples experiencing a variety of challenges, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood swings, trauma and PTSD, dissociation, obsessive-compulsive disorders, sleep or eating disorders, relationship problems, expressed anger, and life stressors.
I am currently accepting new clients for either in-person or remote diagnostic assessment, after which I can provide links to specialists for ongoing treatment. My goal is to understand your needs and help connect you to appropriate services. I provide assessments for teens (14+), adults, and couples experiencing a variety of challenges, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood swings, trauma and PTSD, dissociation, obsessive-compulsive disorders, sleep or eating disorders, relationship problems, expressed anger, and life stressors.
(360) 200-7096 View (360) 200-7096
Photo of Mark Lins, MS, NCC, Counselor
Mark Lins
Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Bremerton, WA 98310
Mark’s first love has always been in practice with family and individual counseling. After managing, he decided to enter into private practice, currently with the Mindful Therapy Group. Mark provides individual, couples, family and group psychotherapy services to people with a variety of mental and emotional difficulties including depression, anxiety, attention deficit, multiple personality, anti-social and other personality issues. Mark has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults from different backgrounds, cultures, and unique circumstances.
Mark’s first love has always been in practice with family and individual counseling. After managing, he decided to enter into private practice, currently with the Mindful Therapy Group. Mark provides individual, couples, family and group psychotherapy services to people with a variety of mental and emotional difficulties including depression, anxiety, attention deficit, multiple personality, anti-social and other personality issues. Mark has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults from different backgrounds, cultures, and unique circumstances.
(206) 594-3515 View (206) 594-3515

See more therapy options for Port Orchard

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.