Chronic Pain Therapists in Edmonton, AB

Photo of HopeWell Psychological Inc, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
HopeWell Psychological Inc
Psychologist, BSc, MC, GRS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5M  (Online Only)
We are experts who can help individuals heal from anxiety, pain, grief, and trauma.
We are compassionate and experienced Psychologists who have supported adults (16+) in various capacities, since 2004. We know that people are resilient and strong but certain life circumstances can be difficult to overcome for most. We have several specialty areas that include working with: 1. people who have gone through a car accident, 2. people who are looking to get over their breakup/divorce, and 3. people who have experienced trauma (due to military service, emergency responding, or sexual abuse). Currently, we provide only online counselling and have flexible hours.
We are experts who can help individuals heal from anxiety, pain, grief, and trauma.
We are compassionate and experienced Psychologists who have supported adults (16+) in various capacities, since 2004. We know that people are resilient and strong but certain life circumstances can be difficult to overcome for most. We have several specialty areas that include working with: 1. people who have gone through a car accident, 2. people who are looking to get over their breakup/divorce, and 3. people who have experienced trauma (due to military service, emergency responding, or sexual abuse). Currently, we provide only online counselling and have flexible hours.
(866) 876-7705 View (866) 876-7705
Photo of Tula Paul, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Tula Paul
Psychologist, MEd, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
in Counselling Psychology), my research in Chronic Pain and my 15 years in a hospital with a wide breadth of medical diagnoses has nurtured my perspective and enables me to develop a vast clinical repertoire to utilize and a keen clinical astuteness to help you find a path through the complexity of health concerns.
I am open to anyone who wants a supportive, collaborative relationship. Given my expertise in health psychology, my ideal client is an adult or child or family dealing with a health complexity and/or anxiety. I understand how difficult it can be to have your world shifted significantly with a health issue and how trying the process of treatment and the medical system can be. I truly want to hear you and help.
in Counselling Psychology), my research in Chronic Pain and my 15 years in a hospital with a wide breadth of medical diagnoses has nurtured my perspective and enables me to develop a vast clinical repertoire to utilize and a keen clinical astuteness to help you find a path through the complexity of health concerns.
I am open to anyone who wants a supportive, collaborative relationship. Given my expertise in health psychology, my ideal client is an adult or child or family dealing with a health complexity and/or anxiety. I understand how difficult it can be to have your world shifted significantly with a health issue and how trying the process of treatment and the medical system can be. I truly want to hear you and help.
(825) 809-5436 View (825) 809-5436
Photo of Michael Handman, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Michael Handman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6C
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 35 years of experience working in hospitals, university and currently only in private practice. I worked overseas in a pediatric oncology and in a Pain Clinic. As the Director of the Psychology Department at the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton, I helped cancer patients and their families; I supervised graduate students and was involved in published research. I achieved the level of Clinical Professor of Palliative Medicine at the University of Alberta. Following my departure from the Cross Cancer Institute, I worked at the University of Alberta Hospital in the Burn and Trauma units.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 35 years of experience working in hospitals, university and currently only in private practice. I worked overseas in a pediatric oncology and in a Pain Clinic. As the Director of the Psychology Department at the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton, I helped cancer patients and their families; I supervised graduate students and was involved in published research. I achieved the level of Clinical Professor of Palliative Medicine at the University of Alberta. Following my departure from the Cross Cancer Institute, I worked at the University of Alberta Hospital in the Burn and Trauma units.
(780) 628-7828 View (780) 628-7828
Photo of Michael Neeland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonton, AB
Michael Neeland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6R
I am trained and experienced in various psychotherapy models and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic pain.
Life can be very challenging and at times overwhelming. Sometimes, it may be difficult to see past and work through certain challenges. I believe that we all have the capacity and resources within ourselves to overcome these challenges and continue to grow through them. To me, the process of therapy is all about engaging with you in a collaborative process to work through any barriers you may be facing. Every person’s life is complex and unique. It is therefore paramount that therapy is based on trust and that you feel safe and empowered.
I am trained and experienced in various psychotherapy models and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic pain.
Life can be very challenging and at times overwhelming. Sometimes, it may be difficult to see past and work through certain challenges. I believe that we all have the capacity and resources within ourselves to overcome these challenges and continue to grow through them. To me, the process of therapy is all about engaging with you in a collaborative process to work through any barriers you may be facing. Every person’s life is complex and unique. It is therefore paramount that therapy is based on trust and that you feel safe and empowered.
(587) 802-3564 View (587) 802-3564
Photo of Terilyn Pott, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Terilyn Pott
Psychologist, PhD, MSc
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5G
I also have training in hypnotherapy, primarily to treat concerns such as depression, anxiety, phobias, chronic pain, worry/stress and self-esteem concerns.
Welcome to Horizon Counselling Service. I am a registered psychologist on the team who provides individual and family counselling to adults and adolescents. I specialize in chronic health, pain management, trauma and anxiety concerns such as OCD or Phobias. My goal in therapy is to help you cope with difficult thoughts and feelings so you can focus on doing the things you love and being the person you value and want to be. I work collaboratively with you, and provide a judgment free environment to work through your concerns. Horizon has psychologists, provisionals and a therapy cat available to support you depending on your needs.
I also have training in hypnotherapy, primarily to treat concerns such as depression, anxiety, phobias, chronic pain, worry/stress and self-esteem concerns.
Welcome to Horizon Counselling Service. I am a registered psychologist on the team who provides individual and family counselling to adults and adolescents. I specialize in chronic health, pain management, trauma and anxiety concerns such as OCD or Phobias. My goal in therapy is to help you cope with difficult thoughts and feelings so you can focus on doing the things you love and being the person you value and want to be. I work collaboratively with you, and provide a judgment free environment to work through your concerns. Horizon has psychologists, provisionals and a therapy cat available to support you depending on your needs.
(587) 401-3134 View (587) 401-3134
Photo of Tabitha MacPherson, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Tabitha MacPherson
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MCP
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
If you are struggling to figure out a life with chronic pain; If you have left an abusive relationship and have lost a sense of who you are; If you are finding that your body is holding onto/telling stories of trauma and stress; If you have challenging relationships with food and your body, I can help with these concerns.
Welcome! I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist in Alberta currently accepting new clients. I provide counselling to seniors, adults, young adults and teens. I am experienced in a variety of mental health concerns including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and LGBTQ2S+ experiences. I have a special interest in working with chronic pain, those who have experienced domestic violence, disordered eating concerns such as body positivity, binge eating, and influences of diet culture. I am currently training in Somatic Experiencing where I utilize body/somatic focused techniques for trauma resolution.
If you are struggling to figure out a life with chronic pain; If you have left an abusive relationship and have lost a sense of who you are; If you are finding that your body is holding onto/telling stories of trauma and stress; If you have challenging relationships with food and your body, I can help with these concerns.
Welcome! I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist in Alberta currently accepting new clients. I provide counselling to seniors, adults, young adults and teens. I am experienced in a variety of mental health concerns including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and LGBTQ2S+ experiences. I have a special interest in working with chronic pain, those who have experienced domestic violence, disordered eating concerns such as body positivity, binge eating, and influences of diet culture. I am currently training in Somatic Experiencing where I utilize body/somatic focused techniques for trauma resolution.
(825) 250-3337 View (825) 250-3337
Photo of Felicia Anderson, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Felicia Anderson
Psychologist, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5M
I work with adults in AB and NB (virtual only for NB residents) who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, grief, PTSD, driving anxiety, as well as relationship issues. I also support people who have been impacted by chronic illnesses, such as cancer, long-haul COVID19, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and other chronic pain conditions.
I work with adults in AB and NB (virtual only for NB residents) who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, grief, PTSD, driving anxiety, as well as relationship issues. I also support people who have been impacted by chronic illnesses, such as cancer, long-haul COVID19, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and other chronic pain conditions.
(587) 418-4895 View (587) 418-4895
Photo of Michelle Finley, Counsellor in Edmonton, AB
Michelle Finley
Counsellor, Bsc, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5M
I work with anxiety, addiction (substance use) and chronic pain. Sometimes the little things become too much and you find you're overreacting or panicking. Maybe you can't get a situation out of your head and you're overthinking or stressed about it. Maybe you tired of numbing the pain or avoiding your problems cause it isn't helping. Sometimes our motivation is to stop passing on unhealthy patterns to our kids. Maybe you want to control your emotions so they don't control you. If you want to work on the roots of addiction and the stress and anxiety that is always brewing below the surface of chronic pain, we could be a fit.
I work with anxiety, addiction (substance use) and chronic pain. Sometimes the little things become too much and you find you're overreacting or panicking. Maybe you can't get a situation out of your head and you're overthinking or stressed about it. Maybe you tired of numbing the pain or avoiding your problems cause it isn't helping. Sometimes our motivation is to stop passing on unhealthy patterns to our kids. Maybe you want to control your emotions so they don't control you. If you want to work on the roots of addiction and the stress and anxiety that is always brewing below the surface of chronic pain, we could be a fit.
(780) 710-9567 View (780) 710-9567
Photo of Dr. Emily Moore, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Dr. Emily Moore
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5N
I am a doctoral-level registered Clinical Psychologist with 11 years of education and training. I completed my PhD at McGill University and subsequently pursued specialized postdoctoral training at the Stanford School of Medicine. I work primarily with adults experiencing mental and physical health concerns. I am a specialist in the treatment of chronic pain. I also have a particular interest and expertise in working with individuals experiencing perfectionism and procrastination. I commonly work with high achievers who are struggling to navigate challenges which interfere with their ability to find meaning and excel in their lives.
I am a doctoral-level registered Clinical Psychologist with 11 years of education and training. I completed my PhD at McGill University and subsequently pursued specialized postdoctoral training at the Stanford School of Medicine. I work primarily with adults experiencing mental and physical health concerns. I am a specialist in the treatment of chronic pain. I also have a particular interest and expertise in working with individuals experiencing perfectionism and procrastination. I commonly work with high achievers who are struggling to navigate challenges which interfere with their ability to find meaning and excel in their lives.
(587) 806-3981 View (587) 806-3981
Photo of Theodore Berry, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Theodore Berry
Psychologist, PsyD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E  (Online Only)
I am a doctorate level Clinical Psychologist with a strong interest in functional movement/neurological disorders, chronic pain, and factitious issues.
Sometimes our mind and body aren't in sync and can leave us feeling ill or debilitated. I strongly believe they are connected and believe that psychotherapy can be leveraged to improve their relationship for better overall health and improved quality of life. Our sessions will focus on understanding your chronic health issues, how they impact your life, and how to better manage them. It is my hope that you are an active participant in your care. For some people, their health issues have taken on a life of their own. Control is a theme of our work. Even as issues continue to happen, you can feel more empowered around your response.
I am a doctorate level Clinical Psychologist with a strong interest in functional movement/neurological disorders, chronic pain, and factitious issues.
Sometimes our mind and body aren't in sync and can leave us feeling ill or debilitated. I strongly believe they are connected and believe that psychotherapy can be leveraged to improve their relationship for better overall health and improved quality of life. Our sessions will focus on understanding your chronic health issues, how they impact your life, and how to better manage them. It is my hope that you are an active participant in your care. For some people, their health issues have taken on a life of their own. Control is a theme of our work. Even as issues continue to happen, you can feel more empowered around your response.
(587) 804-9081 View (587) 804-9081
Photo of Davis P Tharayil, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Davis P Tharayil
Registered Provisional Psychologist, PhD, MA, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5K
I provide treatment for various issues, including trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, addictions, anger, marital conflict, grief, burnout, self-esteem, and personality challenges.
I am a compassionate and non-judgmental Registered Provisional Psychologist with over 12 years of experience. In therapy, clients are able to set achievable goals by discussing their personal issues along with the challenging and complex circumstances they are struggling with. Together, we work towards these goals using an integrative approach that combines Cognitive-Behavioural, Acceptance & Commitment, Dialectical Behavioural Therapies, and Clinical Hypnotherapy.
I provide treatment for various issues, including trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, addictions, anger, marital conflict, grief, burnout, self-esteem, and personality challenges.
I am a compassionate and non-judgmental Registered Provisional Psychologist with over 12 years of experience. In therapy, clients are able to set achievable goals by discussing their personal issues along with the challenging and complex circumstances they are struggling with. Together, we work towards these goals using an integrative approach that combines Cognitive-Behavioural, Acceptance & Commitment, Dialectical Behavioural Therapies, and Clinical Hypnotherapy.
(587) 803-4359 View (587) 803-4359
Photo of Christine Carcoux, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Christine Carcoux
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6C
Life isn't always easy and it doesn't always give us what we expect. We can find ourselves consumed with worry and spiraling thoughts or feeling so low and unmotivated, even getting out of bed seems tough. We can reel from the mental load and exhaustion that comes with chronic pain or chronic illness and feel overwhelmed or burdened with grief and loss or life transitions. We can be hard on ourselves and sometimes struggle to meet our goals. Things might feel hopeless - like they'll never get better. But you don't have to travel these roads alone.
Life isn't always easy and it doesn't always give us what we expect. We can find ourselves consumed with worry and spiraling thoughts or feeling so low and unmotivated, even getting out of bed seems tough. We can reel from the mental load and exhaustion that comes with chronic pain or chronic illness and feel overwhelmed or burdened with grief and loss or life transitions. We can be hard on ourselves and sometimes struggle to meet our goals. Things might feel hopeless - like they'll never get better. But you don't have to travel these roads alone.
(825) 809-5133 View (825) 809-5133
Photo of Dr. Manju Mathew (Turning Point Wellness Hub), Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Dr. Manju Mathew (Turning Point Wellness Hub)
Psychologist, PhD, MPhil, MA, BA, RPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5E
Thank you for reaching out to me. If you want to improve your wellness, you've come to the right place! I am a Registered Psychologist (AB) and a Certified EMDR therapist with extensive education and tons of experience in the field of mental health, especially anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, and more. My multicultural background and lived experience help me to connect empathetically with my clients. I am trained in various treatment modalities, such as EMDR, CBT, ACT, DBT, EFT etc. However, I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all. I trust in your inner strength and believe that we can work together to achieve your goals.
Thank you for reaching out to me. If you want to improve your wellness, you've come to the right place! I am a Registered Psychologist (AB) and a Certified EMDR therapist with extensive education and tons of experience in the field of mental health, especially anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, and more. My multicultural background and lived experience help me to connect empathetically with my clients. I am trained in various treatment modalities, such as EMDR, CBT, ACT, DBT, EFT etc. However, I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all. I trust in your inner strength and believe that we can work together to achieve your goals.
(587) 801-5494 View (587) 801-5494
Photo of Andrea Fong, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Andrea Fong
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MEd, Bsc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5G
Are you unable to find joy and happiness in your hobbies anymore? Do you think to yourself that no one understands your pain and your suffering? Chronic illness and chronic pain are not easy to handle. The struggle of figuring out what actions are worth your time seems like a blur but you know you want to 'LIVE' once more and not just survive. You want to have meaningful relationships and enjoy the activities you love once more. I work with individuals who no longer want to be held back by their physical and their mental health.
Are you unable to find joy and happiness in your hobbies anymore? Do you think to yourself that no one understands your pain and your suffering? Chronic illness and chronic pain are not easy to handle. The struggle of figuring out what actions are worth your time seems like a blur but you know you want to 'LIVE' once more and not just survive. You want to have meaningful relationships and enjoy the activities you love once more. I work with individuals who no longer want to be held back by their physical and their mental health.
(587) 415-6821 View (587) 415-6821
Photo of Saadiya Ali, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Saadiya Ali
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC, BPA, BA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6W
I have experience working with post-injury, short-term and long-term disability, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and trauma related to motor vehicle accidents.
In this journey of life, we experience all kinds of events both positive and negative. As humans, we are equipped with unique strengths and resources that shape our resiliency when it comes to healing, changing, growing, and adapting. We may experience problems because of a disruption (internal or external) to our daily functioning, which can impact how we feel, how we think, and/or how we behave. This can result to feeling a loss of control and autonomy over our lives. A central tenant to my approach in counselling is social justice which means supporting my clients to empower themselves: regaining power over their lives.
I have experience working with post-injury, short-term and long-term disability, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and trauma related to motor vehicle accidents.
In this journey of life, we experience all kinds of events both positive and negative. As humans, we are equipped with unique strengths and resources that shape our resiliency when it comes to healing, changing, growing, and adapting. We may experience problems because of a disruption (internal or external) to our daily functioning, which can impact how we feel, how we think, and/or how we behave. This can result to feeling a loss of control and autonomy over our lives. A central tenant to my approach in counselling is social justice which means supporting my clients to empower themselves: regaining power over their lives.
(825) 250-3880 View (825) 250-3880
Photo of Justin Long, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Justin Long
Psychologist, MCP, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
Trained in PTSD, Chronic Pain, Depression, Dissociation, Anxiety & Stress, I use an eclectic, evidence-based approach to match your treatment needs.
Hello! You are likely here to find a therapist, which is not an easy task. I hope to make it as easy as possible for you to see if I might be a good fit, and if we aren't, I'll help you to find a therapist who is. Fit with your therapist is a very important part of what makes therapy successful, and helping you find successful treatment at the end of the day is what is important to me.
Trained in PTSD, Chronic Pain, Depression, Dissociation, Anxiety & Stress, I use an eclectic, evidence-based approach to match your treatment needs.
Hello! You are likely here to find a therapist, which is not an easy task. I hope to make it as easy as possible for you to see if I might be a good fit, and if we aren't, I'll help you to find a therapist who is. Fit with your therapist is a very important part of what makes therapy successful, and helping you find successful treatment at the end of the day is what is important to me.
(825) 601-5950 View (825) 601-5950
Photo of Vanessa Ross, Counsellor in Edmonton, AB
Vanessa Ross
Counsellor, BA, MACP , CD
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5Y
My role is to work on your goals to achieve better life balance, and turn pain into peace using Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness practices.
My focus is to assist clients through life transitions, depression, anxiety, and trauma recovery. Specializing in trauma counselling for CAF, RCMP, EMS, CSC, and other front line workers. I am experienced with VAC assessments, with an in depth knowledge of VAC policies, and benefits. My approach is strength based, and solution focused using research based methods. My unique life experiences as a female Veteran provide compassionate empathy, and understanding of the great need for trauma counselling.
My role is to work on your goals to achieve better life balance, and turn pain into peace using Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness practices.
My focus is to assist clients through life transitions, depression, anxiety, and trauma recovery. Specializing in trauma counselling for CAF, RCMP, EMS, CSC, and other front line workers. I am experienced with VAC assessments, with an in depth knowledge of VAC policies, and benefits. My approach is strength based, and solution focused using research based methods. My unique life experiences as a female Veteran provide compassionate empathy, and understanding of the great need for trauma counselling.
(587) 805-0973 View (587) 805-0973
Photo of E.j. Kim, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
E.j. Kim
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6B  (Online Only)
Hi. Thanks for viewing my profile. As a registered psychologist, I have experience supporting adults and adolescents through various (and often closely related) difficulties, including trauma, anxiety-related, and depressive disorders, as well as emotion regulation, work-related stress, assertiveness/boundary setting, and chronic pain management.
Hi. Thanks for viewing my profile. As a registered psychologist, I have experience supporting adults and adolescents through various (and often closely related) difficulties, including trauma, anxiety-related, and depressive disorders, as well as emotion regulation, work-related stress, assertiveness/boundary setting, and chronic pain management.
(587) 412-5093 View (587) 412-5093
Photo of Rebecca Nancy Martin, Counsellor in Edmonton, AB
Rebecca Nancy Martin
Counsellor, BA(Hon), BED, MS, LMHC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6R
When you find yourself struggling to live the life you want because of depression, tension, addiction or pain, you can reach me to find a better way. When you feel that you are living one life on the outside and another on the intside, you can reach me to find ways to connect the two. When you notice that you are living according to others' expectations, you can reach me to engage your authenticity. I will support you as you heal those parts of you that are hurt and and help you re-unite with the wisdom of your inner experiences.
When you find yourself struggling to live the life you want because of depression, tension, addiction or pain, you can reach me to find a better way. When you feel that you are living one life on the outside and another on the intside, you can reach me to find ways to connect the two. When you notice that you are living according to others' expectations, you can reach me to engage your authenticity. I will support you as you heal those parts of you that are hurt and and help you re-unite with the wisdom of your inner experiences.
(587) 507-8709 View (587) 507-8709
Photo of Allison Foskett, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Allison Foskett
Psychologist, PhD, MSc, Hon BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Are you feeling overwhelmed and struggling to cope? Do you need a professional who is respectful, gentle, and can provide a safe and nonjudgmental atmosphere in which you can voice your concerns? If you've experienced workplace stress/trauma, burnout, anxiety, or depression, and you want to heal your emotional pain and restore your self-worth, - please reach out. You don't need to go through this alone. I also provide career planning/counselling and can help you find deeper meaning and fulfillment in your career.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and struggling to cope? Do you need a professional who is respectful, gentle, and can provide a safe and nonjudgmental atmosphere in which you can voice your concerns? If you've experienced workplace stress/trauma, burnout, anxiety, or depression, and you want to heal your emotional pain and restore your self-worth, - please reach out. You don't need to go through this alone. I also provide career planning/counselling and can help you find deeper meaning and fulfillment in your career.
(855) 764-2586 View (855) 764-2586

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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.