Chronic Pain Counselling in Midland, WA

Photo of Bronwyn Lester, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bronwyn Lester
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Midland, WA 6056
I work with a wide range of emotional difficulties including depression and low mood, anxiety, life changes, stress managment, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and chronic pain.
At times we all feel anxious, stuck, lost, alone or empty. Sometimes it is fleeting, sometimes it stays for a while and sometimes it seems it is never going to leave. No two people are the same and I am committed to a collaborative approach towards understanding you and find a pathway to best resolve your emotional difficulties. I draw on a range of psychological treatment approaches including Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Eye Movement Densensitisation and Reprocessing, and Internal Family Systems. I recently have completed training in Deep Brain Reorienting to process lingering shock from trauma.
I work with a wide range of emotional difficulties including depression and low mood, anxiety, life changes, stress managment, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and chronic pain.
At times we all feel anxious, stuck, lost, alone or empty. Sometimes it is fleeting, sometimes it stays for a while and sometimes it seems it is never going to leave. No two people are the same and I am committed to a collaborative approach towards understanding you and find a pathway to best resolve your emotional difficulties. I draw on a range of psychological treatment approaches including Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Eye Movement Densensitisation and Reprocessing, and Internal Family Systems. I recently have completed training in Deep Brain Reorienting to process lingering shock from trauma.
(08) 9250 6001 View (08) 9250 6001
Photo of Sharon Hillman, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Sharon Hillman
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Midland, WA 6056
Welcome to the start of your journey towards better psychological health. My personal style is warm, engaging and passionate and builds upon my Masters qualifications in psychology and experience in managing mental health programs and services for over 20 years, working with children, young people and adults. Clients can expect a safe and supportive therapeutic space to work within, one without judgement, focusing on strengths and building resilience.
Welcome to the start of your journey towards better psychological health. My personal style is warm, engaging and passionate and builds upon my Masters qualifications in psychology and experience in managing mental health programs and services for over 20 years, working with children, young people and adults. Clients can expect a safe and supportive therapeutic space to work within, one without judgement, focusing on strengths and building resilience.
(08) 6171 3869 View (08) 6171 3869
Photo of Kellie Sheldon - Trauma And Sex Counsellor Emdr, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Kellie Sheldon - Trauma And Sex Counsellor Emdr
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Midland, WA 6056
Waitlist for new clients
You tell yourself you should be over it. But your body still reacts. Your mind still shuts down. You push it down, avoid it, tell yourself it’s in the past. But it still shows up. In your reactions. In your relationships. In the way you freeze, lash out, or disappear inside yourself. Your body stays tense, always ‘on’, bracing for something. Some days, you’re numb. Other days, you can’t stop overthinking. Either way, it’s exhausting. It’s not just memories. It’s your body reacting, even when you don’t want it to. You don’t have to hold it all together. You just get to be real about what’s happening - and we’ll start from there.
You tell yourself you should be over it. But your body still reacts. Your mind still shuts down. You push it down, avoid it, tell yourself it’s in the past. But it still shows up. In your reactions. In your relationships. In the way you freeze, lash out, or disappear inside yourself. Your body stays tense, always ‘on’, bracing for something. Some days, you’re numb. Other days, you can’t stop overthinking. Either way, it’s exhausting. It’s not just memories. It’s your body reacting, even when you don’t want it to. You don’t have to hold it all together. You just get to be real about what’s happening - and we’ll start from there.
(08) 6109 8292 View (08) 6109 8292
Photo of Susanna B Juchli, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Susanna B Juchli
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Midland, WA 6056
Do emotions sometimes become too painful and overwhelming? Taking that first step to contact someone for help can be very difficult. Establishing a caring therapeutic relationship attuned to individual needs is central to Susanna’s work. As research supports, the therapeutic relationship is the most powerful determinant of a positive outcome in psychotherapy. Susanna encourages her clients to explore and become aware how early experiences shape their present thoughts and behaviours. Gaining a greater understanding of their circumstances, allows for an empowered sense of their ability to create positive change.
Do emotions sometimes become too painful and overwhelming? Taking that first step to contact someone for help can be very difficult. Establishing a caring therapeutic relationship attuned to individual needs is central to Susanna’s work. As research supports, the therapeutic relationship is the most powerful determinant of a positive outcome in psychotherapy. Susanna encourages her clients to explore and become aware how early experiences shape their present thoughts and behaviours. Gaining a greater understanding of their circumstances, allows for an empowered sense of their ability to create positive change.
0498 116 684 View 0498 116 684
Photo of Theresa Potter - Serene Solutions Counselling Services, Psychotherapist, AMHSW
Serene Solutions Counselling Services
Psychotherapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I'm Theresa, the driving force behind Serene Solutions Counselling Services. I've worn many hats, from social work to theology, psychotherapy, and hypnotherapy. My journey has been winding, but it's led me here, ready to be your guide to positive transformation. With a background in social work, I've been in the trenches, working with families and children, and I have equally nurtured knowledge and community in academic settings. Now, as a psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist, I combine all these experiences to offer you a comprehensive range of services.
I'm Theresa, the driving force behind Serene Solutions Counselling Services. I've worn many hats, from social work to theology, psychotherapy, and hypnotherapy. My journey has been winding, but it's led me here, ready to be your guide to positive transformation. With a background in social work, I've been in the trenches, working with families and children, and I have equally nurtured knowledge and community in academic settings. Now, as a psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist, I combine all these experiences to offer you a comprehensive range of services.
(08) 6361 7051 View (08) 6361 7051
Photo of Nadia Kidgell, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Nadia Kidgell
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a compassionate and dedicated family counsellor specialising in Family Counselling including: ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, Divorce and Separation, ASD behaviour and family support, Family Conflict, Trauma, Grief and Loss and Eating Disorders. Through my experience and specialist training she is able to offer support and guidance to childen and their families through challenging times.
I am a compassionate and dedicated family counsellor specialising in Family Counselling including: ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, Divorce and Separation, ASD behaviour and family support, Family Conflict, Trauma, Grief and Loss and Eating Disorders. Through my experience and specialist training she is able to offer support and guidance to childen and their families through challenging times.
(08) 6147 0116 View (08) 6147 0116

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Morrison James McQueen, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Morrison James McQueen
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
With extensive experience in treating chronic pain, anxiety and mood issues in adults and teens, Morrison brings his Psychological experience from across the private and government settings to each indiviuals' unique situation.
With extensive experience in treating chronic pain, anxiety and mood issues Morrison works with each individual client to draw on their strengths and insight for lasting change. Mindfulness based Cognitive therapy, A.C.T, and Metacognitive therapy form the basis of evidence based treatments used with most clients.
With extensive experience in treating chronic pain, anxiety and mood issues in adults and teens, Morrison brings his Psychological experience from across the private and government settings to each indiviuals' unique situation.
With extensive experience in treating chronic pain, anxiety and mood issues Morrison works with each individual client to draw on their strengths and insight for lasting change. Mindfulness based Cognitive therapy, A.C.T, and Metacognitive therapy form the basis of evidence based treatments used with most clients.
(08) 6493 7436 View (08) 6493 7436
Photo of Sarah Dakhili, Counsellor, AMHSW
Sarah Dakhili
Counsellor, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 14 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD.
Sarah is passionate about helping clients achieve meaningful connections, assisting them to reconnect and work towards developing a closer, stronger and more secure relationship with themselves and their body. She focuses on supporting clients with experiencing a new reference point for happiness and to overcome struggles. She works mainly online.
She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 14 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD.
Sarah is passionate about helping clients achieve meaningful connections, assisting them to reconnect and work towards developing a closer, stronger and more secure relationship with themselves and their body. She focuses on supporting clients with experiencing a new reference point for happiness and to overcome struggles. She works mainly online.
(07) 3130 0085 View (07) 3130 0085
Photo of Georgina Mavor, Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Georgina Mavor
Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Verified Verified
Melville, WA 6156
Stress can trigger symptoms of chronic pain and anxiety, as well as a diverse range of symptoms related to organs integral to the healthy functioning of the human threat system.
Psychophysiological education on how the mind and body work together, and why stress triggers symptoms; listening to podcasts of personal recovery stories; engaging with CBT based apps, workbooks, and mindfulness meditations to change 'threat' circuity; and emotional processing through writing are potential components of your neuroplastistic treatment plan.
Stress can trigger symptoms of chronic pain and anxiety, as well as a diverse range of symptoms related to organs integral to the healthy functioning of the human threat system.
Psychophysiological education on how the mind and body work together, and why stress triggers symptoms; listening to podcasts of personal recovery stories; engaging with CBT based apps, workbooks, and mindfulness meditations to change 'threat' circuity; and emotional processing through writing are potential components of your neuroplastistic treatment plan.
(08) 6206 8178 View (08) 6206 8178
Photo of Jacob Reid Mottram, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Jacob Reid Mottram
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I support clients who may be experiencing the complexities of ADHD or Chronic Pain.
If you are not who you want to be, you can break down who you became by accident, and rebuild yourself as who you want to be on purpose. Living with ADHD can feel like you’re playing a different version of life. What works for others doesn’t always work for you, even when you're giving it your all. It’s not about trying harder; it’s about working differently, with support that understands how you tick. I founded T.H.E. Psyborg to give my ADHD and neurodivergent gamers a space to Thrive, Heal, and Evolve - safely and intentionally. (P.S. You don’t need to be a gamer to feel at home here, just someone looking for support that fits.)
I support clients who may be experiencing the complexities of ADHD or Chronic Pain.
If you are not who you want to be, you can break down who you became by accident, and rebuild yourself as who you want to be on purpose. Living with ADHD can feel like you’re playing a different version of life. What works for others doesn’t always work for you, even when you're giving it your all. It’s not about trying harder; it’s about working differently, with support that understands how you tick. I founded T.H.E. Psyborg to give my ADHD and neurodivergent gamers a space to Thrive, Heal, and Evolve - safely and intentionally. (P.S. You don’t need to be a gamer to feel at home here, just someone looking for support that fits.)
(08) 7008 7897 View (08) 7008 7897
Photo of Kate Deakin, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Kate Deakin
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have experience helping people with: -Anxiety, depression, difficult emotions -Self-esteem - Chronic pain -Insomnia -Relationship issues -Existential issues: fear of death, illness, isolation, uncertainty, change, loss -Lack of meaning (& fulfilment) -Life goals -'Psychosomatic' issues e.
I help people with -emotional & nervous system regulation & becoming more grounded -limiting thoughts & beliefs -internal conflicts -body tension patterns & ways psychological pain shows in the body -developing self-acceptance & self-confidence -relationship & communication skills -parts work -existential fears -developing inner wisdom & intuition.
I have experience helping people with: -Anxiety, depression, difficult emotions -Self-esteem - Chronic pain -Insomnia -Relationship issues -Existential issues: fear of death, illness, isolation, uncertainty, change, loss -Lack of meaning (& fulfilment) -Life goals -'Psychosomatic' issues e.
I help people with -emotional & nervous system regulation & becoming more grounded -limiting thoughts & beliefs -internal conflicts -body tension patterns & ways psychological pain shows in the body -developing self-acceptance & self-confidence -relationship & communication skills -parts work -existential fears -developing inner wisdom & intuition.
(02) 9100 0463 View (02) 9100 0463
Photo of Dr Sam Wai Hoong, Psychologist, PhD
Dr Sam Wai Hoong
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mosman Park, WA 6012
I am also interested in working with individuals suffering from chronic pain and complex trauma especially childhood unresolved issues .
I’m a fully registered Clinical Psychologist. I specialise in the management and treatment of complex trauma, chronic pain, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship/behavioural and academic difficulties . I have obtained my doctorate from UWA, and Master of Clinical Psychology . I’ve advance training in Clinical Hypnosis and EMDR.
I am also interested in working with individuals suffering from chronic pain and complex trauma especially childhood unresolved issues .
I’m a fully registered Clinical Psychologist. I specialise in the management and treatment of complex trauma, chronic pain, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship/behavioural and academic difficulties . I have obtained my doctorate from UWA, and Master of Clinical Psychology . I’ve advance training in Clinical Hypnosis and EMDR.
(08) 7079 5680 View (08) 7079 5680
Photo of Jaimee Ann Smith, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Jaimee Ann Smith
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Online Only
If you find yourself struggling with life stressors, depression, anxiety, trauma, adjusting to change, chronic pain, grief and loss, a workplace issue, stages of life, then an appointment with Jaimee might be the right choice for you.
Jaimee’s therapeutic style is warm and compassionate, utilizing a range of evidence-based interventions. Jaimee understands that the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of positive change.
If you find yourself struggling with life stressors, depression, anxiety, trauma, adjusting to change, chronic pain, grief and loss, a workplace issue, stages of life, then an appointment with Jaimee might be the right choice for you.
Jaimee’s therapeutic style is warm and compassionate, utilizing a range of evidence-based interventions. Jaimee understands that the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of positive change.
(07) 5241 1666 View (07) 5241 1666
Photo of Dr Arthur David Stabolidis - Dr Arthur Stabolidis: The Psychology Suite, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Dr Arthur Stabolidis: The Psychology Suite
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am also trained in clinical hypnotherapy which I utilise in the management of chronic pain conditions such as endometriosis, fibro neuralgia and IBS, and which I use as a therapy to help promote fertility.
I like to adopt a warm, compassionate and innovative style to my evidence-based practice. I believe in a strength-based collaborative approach to therapy. I am guided by Sir William Osler's famous saying: “Ask not what disease the person has, but rather who the person is that has the disease.”
I am also trained in clinical hypnotherapy which I utilise in the management of chronic pain conditions such as endometriosis, fibro neuralgia and IBS, and which I use as a therapy to help promote fertility.
I like to adopt a warm, compassionate and innovative style to my evidence-based practice. I believe in a strength-based collaborative approach to therapy. I am guided by Sir William Osler's famous saying: “Ask not what disease the person has, but rather who the person is that has the disease.”
View
Photo of Lara Bertolino, Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Lara Bertolino
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
My roles in the public system were in health psychology; particularly chronic pain management and trauma rehabilitation.
My ideal client would prefer therapy outside in nature, instead of in a clinical consulting room! They know that time in nature is a big part of how they self-regulate, but are struggling to incorporate it. They may be burnt out, anxious, depressed, neurodiverse, or simply feeling lost. Their painful thoughts, feelings, past experiences, and patterns of behaviour are interfering with their path. They would like a supportive therapist to walk alongside them as they figure it out; someone to provide some nudges of direction and new skills, but also trust them to use their internal resources and personal values to guide their way.
My roles in the public system were in health psychology; particularly chronic pain management and trauma rehabilitation.
My ideal client would prefer therapy outside in nature, instead of in a clinical consulting room! They know that time in nature is a big part of how they self-regulate, but are struggling to incorporate it. They may be burnt out, anxious, depressed, neurodiverse, or simply feeling lost. Their painful thoughts, feelings, past experiences, and patterns of behaviour are interfering with their path. They would like a supportive therapist to walk alongside them as they figure it out; someone to provide some nudges of direction and new skills, but also trust them to use their internal resources and personal values to guide their way.
(08) 6490 9982 View (08) 6490 9982
Photo of Gus Norris, Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Gus Norris
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Online Only
I assist clients with depression, anxiety, anger, sleep problems, schizophrenia and chronic pain.
​Using psychological therapy techniques with a strong scientific evidence base I help clients to rapidly target their mental health problems. Together, we would develop an individualised approach to conceptualising and effectively treating your presenting difficulties, so that you can improve your wellbeing and return your focus to meaningful life goals.
I assist clients with depression, anxiety, anger, sleep problems, schizophrenia and chronic pain.
​Using psychological therapy techniques with a strong scientific evidence base I help clients to rapidly target their mental health problems. Together, we would develop an individualised approach to conceptualising and effectively treating your presenting difficulties, so that you can improve your wellbeing and return your focus to meaningful life goals.
(02) 9100 0562 View (02) 9100 0562
Photo of Elizabeth Eve McCardell - Dr Elizabeth McCardell, PhD, Counsellor, PhD
Dr Elizabeth McCardell, PhD
Counsellor, PhD
Verified Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
I work with clients experiencing grief and bereavement, post traumatic stress, sleep problems, smoking, anxiety, stress, creative blocks, chronic pain, fears, gender issues, etc.
I have a BA, BA (Hons), Master of Couns., PhD and a Dip of Clinical Hypnotherapy. I've received trainings in psychodynamic approaches, Narrative Therapy, Bridging Attachment Theory, CBT, mindfulness and meditation techniques (eg the Buddhist practice of Tonglen), etc. All these are very useful, but I work closely with you and what you seek.
I work with clients experiencing grief and bereavement, post traumatic stress, sleep problems, smoking, anxiety, stress, creative blocks, chronic pain, fears, gender issues, etc.
I have a BA, BA (Hons), Master of Couns., PhD and a Dip of Clinical Hypnotherapy. I've received trainings in psychodynamic approaches, Narrative Therapy, Bridging Attachment Theory, CBT, mindfulness and meditation techniques (eg the Buddhist practice of Tonglen), etc. All these are very useful, but I work closely with you and what you seek.
0429 199 021 View 0429 199 021
Photo of Leigh Milne - Leigh Milne - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Leigh Milne - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
Leigh Milne is a Registered Psychologist, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Psychosomatic Therapist and lived experience military veteran. Leigh has over 30 years of allied wellness experience, initially in a paramedical nursing/pathology role in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), followed by complementary therapies, hypnotherapy, psychology and the psychosomatic
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
Leigh Milne is a Registered Psychologist, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Psychosomatic Therapist and lived experience military veteran. Leigh has over 30 years of allied wellness experience, initially in a paramedical nursing/pathology role in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), followed by complementary therapies, hypnotherapy, psychology and the psychosomatic
(03) 7003 2164 View (03) 7003 2164
Photo of Sarah Lawrence - Sarah Lawrence, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Sarah Lawrence
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Booragoon, WA 6154
I have experience working with adults, adolescents and couples to support a range of issues including work related stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, interpersonal and adjustment difficulties.
I am a Registered Psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society. I utilise evidenced based therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing (MI) and other brief solution focused therapies.
I have experience working with adults, adolescents and couples to support a range of issues including work related stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, interpersonal and adjustment difficulties.
I am a Registered Psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society. I utilise evidenced based therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing (MI) and other brief solution focused therapies.
(08) 6219 3537 View (08) 6219 3537
Photo of Heinrich Wilhelm Roth, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Heinrich Wilhelm Roth
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Merriwa, WA 6030
I am a certified expert in the treatment of clients suffering from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, vicarious trauma, a variety of phobias and anxiety and mood disorders, also including clients suffering from PTSD/phobias due to workplace injuries and vehicle accidents, and the treatment of chronic pain management.
I specialise in a variety psychotherapies focused on PTSD/Complex PTSD/vicarious trauma/phobias/anxiety and mood disorders, which include Clinical Neuro-Psychotherapy, CBT, EMDR, Exposure Response Prevention Therapy and Virtual Reality in clinical practice. I also provide a full online therapeutic service.
I am a certified expert in the treatment of clients suffering from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, vicarious trauma, a variety of phobias and anxiety and mood disorders, also including clients suffering from PTSD/phobias due to workplace injuries and vehicle accidents, and the treatment of chronic pain management.
I specialise in a variety psychotherapies focused on PTSD/Complex PTSD/vicarious trauma/phobias/anxiety and mood disorders, which include Clinical Neuro-Psychotherapy, CBT, EMDR, Exposure Response Prevention Therapy and Virtual Reality in clinical practice. I also provide a full online therapeutic service.
(08) 9468 7104 View (08) 9468 7104

See more therapy options for Midland

Chronic Pain Counsellors

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, catastrophising, 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 behavioural 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.