Photo of Connect and Thrive Psychology, Psychologist in Etobicoke, ON
Connect and Thrive Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9A  (Online Only)
We are a team of mental health professionals supporting individuals and couples. We have expertise in working with clients who struggle with interpersonal communication, assertiveness, and problematic emotions (e.g., anxiety, shame, anger) that impacts their self-worth, their ability to function, and their relationships. Some of our clinicians also have specialized training treating anxiety disorders (social anxiety, generalized anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, agoraphobia), obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder and complex mental illness, as well as in rehabilitation psychology.
We are a team of mental health professionals supporting individuals and couples. We have expertise in working with clients who struggle with interpersonal communication, assertiveness, and problematic emotions (e.g., anxiety, shame, anger) that impacts their self-worth, their ability to function, and their relationships. Some of our clinicians also have specialized training treating anxiety disorders (social anxiety, generalized anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, agoraphobia), obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder and complex mental illness, as well as in rehabilitation psychology.
(647) 370-2543 View (647) 370-2543
Photo of Rian Cassells, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Rian Cassells
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, DCTP
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
Executives, lawyers, doctors, and high-achievers in all professions can, paradoxically, feel at a loss when faced with emotional conflicts or personal difficulties. My professional background in law, business, and psychotherapy gives me the credentials and skills required to assist you in understanding and resolving issues that may prove problematic in your professional or personal life. I have a Master of Therapeutic Counselling and I graduated from the one of the leading psychotherapy training institutions in North America--The Centre for Training in Psychotherapy (www.ctp.net), Toronto, Ontario.
Executives, lawyers, doctors, and high-achievers in all professions can, paradoxically, feel at a loss when faced with emotional conflicts or personal difficulties. My professional background in law, business, and psychotherapy gives me the credentials and skills required to assist you in understanding and resolving issues that may prove problematic in your professional or personal life. I have a Master of Therapeutic Counselling and I graduated from the one of the leading psychotherapy training institutions in North America--The Centre for Training in Psychotherapy (www.ctp.net), Toronto, Ontario.
(647) 977-5989 View (647) 977-5989
Photo of Your Lifetime Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Etobicoke, ON
Your Lifetime Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MD, MACP, RP(q), PMP, CCRP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9C
I wear many professional hats. I am an MD, MACP, RP(q), a Clinical Researcher, a Project Management Professional, a Professor at George Brown College, previously an instructor for 15 years at UofT and a family oriented female. I am a published author in the Journal of American College of Cardiology, International Diabetes Federation and the Journal of European Society of Cardiology. I have a number of years worth of work experience in mental health. I have taken care of clients in the in/out patient settings. I believe in providing a non-judgmental and safe space for people to share. My aim is to build stronger communities.
I wear many professional hats. I am an MD, MACP, RP(q), a Clinical Researcher, a Project Management Professional, a Professor at George Brown College, previously an instructor for 15 years at UofT and a family oriented female. I am a published author in the Journal of American College of Cardiology, International Diabetes Federation and the Journal of European Society of Cardiology. I have a number of years worth of work experience in mental health. I have taken care of clients in the in/out patient settings. I believe in providing a non-judgmental and safe space for people to share. My aim is to build stronger communities.
(289) 677-1873 View (289) 677-1873
Photo of Dr. Jenkin Mok, Psychologist in Etobicoke, ON
Dr. Jenkin Mok
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9A  (Online Only)
I am a psychologist in supervised practice specialized in the practices of clinical neuropsychology, clinical psychology, and rehabilitation psychology with adults. Like many Canadians, I come from a bicultural upbringing. For this reason, I am aware of the unique challenges and intergenerational experiences that are faced everyday by those of us who grew up in both mainstream Canadian and multicultural communities. Drawing from my training as a psychologist, as well as my personal journey, my goal is to create an authentic, relatable, and culturally sensitive space for you to share your experiences through the course of therapy.
I am a psychologist in supervised practice specialized in the practices of clinical neuropsychology, clinical psychology, and rehabilitation psychology with adults. Like many Canadians, I come from a bicultural upbringing. For this reason, I am aware of the unique challenges and intergenerational experiences that are faced everyday by those of us who grew up in both mainstream Canadian and multicultural communities. Drawing from my training as a psychologist, as well as my personal journey, my goal is to create an authentic, relatable, and culturally sensitive space for you to share your experiences through the course of therapy.
(437) 800-0566 View (437) 800-0566
Photo of Vielka Almanzar, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Vielka Almanzar
Registered Psychotherapist, HBA, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V
Therapy is a way out of feeling helpless & hopeless. At The Insight Clinic our priority is getting you results. We focus on building a genuine, empathetic, & positive relationship with you that will bring out your strengths and move you to a better place. Whether for you or a loved one, seeking help to improve your relationships, emotional regulation, & quality of life can be daunting. It's normal to feel doubt. We use a non-judgemental approach that considers the influence of traumatic memories on current issues. This will shed light onto solutions you haven’t seen before.
Therapy is a way out of feeling helpless & hopeless. At The Insight Clinic our priority is getting you results. We focus on building a genuine, empathetic, & positive relationship with you that will bring out your strengths and move you to a better place. Whether for you or a loved one, seeking help to improve your relationships, emotional regulation, & quality of life can be daunting. It's normal to feel doubt. We use a non-judgemental approach that considers the influence of traumatic memories on current issues. This will shed light onto solutions you haven’t seen before.
(289) 278-0853 View (289) 278-0853
Photo of Fresh Solutions Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Fresh Solutions Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
Tired of feeling stressed out, anxious, & overwhelmed? Do you feel like there’s got to be a way to make life easier, but you’re not quite sure where to start? We're busy professionals, too, so we get it & we’ve got you! Most of our clients are hard-working, successful professionals just trying to maintain their own health & happiness while balancing their career, relationships, & family responsibilities. Our team of compassionate & skilled therapists will help you better understand yourself & your experiences, get clear on what you really want & need, figure out your goals, & create a plan for change that feels just right for you!
Tired of feeling stressed out, anxious, & overwhelmed? Do you feel like there’s got to be a way to make life easier, but you’re not quite sure where to start? We're busy professionals, too, so we get it & we’ve got you! Most of our clients are hard-working, successful professionals just trying to maintain their own health & happiness while balancing their career, relationships, & family responsibilities. Our team of compassionate & skilled therapists will help you better understand yourself & your experiences, get clear on what you really want & need, figure out your goals, & create a plan for change that feels just right for you!
(289) 805-0762 View (289) 805-0762

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Johann Kong (Psychotherapy For You), Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Johann Kong (Psychotherapy For You)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5R
More importantly, I understand pain and trauma and know how hard it can be to navigate through these experiences towards health and wellness.
I hold 3 degrees and several counseling certifications which include a Master's Degree in Social Work from University of Toronto, Bachelor of Social Work Degree from the University of Windsor and Bachelor of Arts from Western University and Human Resource Professional Certificate from Sheridan College. I am registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. My experience profile has several decades specializations in paediatrics and child and family counselling.
More importantly, I understand pain and trauma and know how hard it can be to navigate through these experiences towards health and wellness.
I hold 3 degrees and several counseling certifications which include a Master's Degree in Social Work from University of Toronto, Bachelor of Social Work Degree from the University of Windsor and Bachelor of Arts from Western University and Human Resource Professional Certificate from Sheridan College. I am registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. My experience profile has several decades specializations in paediatrics and child and family counselling.
(289) 367-0044 View (289) 367-0044
Photo of Toronto Wellness Counselling, Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Toronto Wellness Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4V  (Online Only)
TWC is able to provide treatment for mental health disorders (anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, panic disorders, depression, bi-polar disorder & PTSD), as well as physical health challenges (chronic pain, managing chronic illness & diseases), burnout, relationship challenges, neuro-diversity & parenting challenges.
Our team of Registered Social Workers & Registered Psychotherapists is deeply committed to supporting clients make the change they need to live their healthiest, most vibrant lives. We work closely with clients to create a life that allows for genuine fulfillment, healthy connection and greater self-awareness. The interventions we implement are evidence based and our team is thoroughly trained so that we can offer exceptional therapeutic services to children & youth, adults, couples and parents. Be in touch to learn more :)
TWC is able to provide treatment for mental health disorders (anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, panic disorders, depression, bi-polar disorder & PTSD), as well as physical health challenges (chronic pain, managing chronic illness & diseases), burnout, relationship challenges, neuro-diversity & parenting challenges.
Our team of Registered Social Workers & Registered Psychotherapists is deeply committed to supporting clients make the change they need to live their healthiest, most vibrant lives. We work closely with clients to create a life that allows for genuine fulfillment, healthy connection and greater self-awareness. The interventions we implement are evidence based and our team is thoroughly trained so that we can offer exceptional therapeutic services to children & youth, adults, couples and parents. Be in touch to learn more :)
(437) 747-6334 View (437) 747-6334
Photo of Heyday Therapy Inc, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Heyday Therapy Inc
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6P
It is natural to need professional support when struggling with mental health. Here are examples of some issues that our therapists can help you with: anger management, anxiety/stress and depression management, addiction, burnout, relationship counseling, or couples counseling, marital & pre-marital therapy, family conflicts, modern parenting, blended families, children and divorce, teen issues, relationship problems, instability, conflict or communication issues, dating issues, infidelity peer relationships Illness or disease diagnoses bereavement, grief and loss counselling, career and corporate coaching, etc.
It is natural to need professional support when struggling with mental health. Here are examples of some issues that our therapists can help you with: anger management, anxiety/stress and depression management, addiction, burnout, relationship counseling, or couples counseling, marital & pre-marital therapy, family conflicts, modern parenting, blended families, children and divorce, teen issues, relationship problems, instability, conflict or communication issues, dating issues, infidelity peer relationships Illness or disease diagnoses bereavement, grief and loss counselling, career and corporate coaching, etc.
(647) 797-9743 View (647) 797-9743
Photo of Dalia Slonim, Psychologist in Etobicoke, ON
Dalia Slonim
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4K
I have been a psychologist for many years and offer treatment for a range of issues among them: Adjustment to and coping with life/health changes, Fear of abandonment, Isolation, Assertiveness, Childhood and adolescent issues, Anxiety Panic disorder social awkwardness, anxiety secondary to medical condition, Specific phobias, Boundaries issues, personal development Care partner stress and burden, medically unexplained symptoms, Depression, sleep difficulties, Obsessive compulsive disorders, persistent pain, Parenting issues, Perfectionism, PTSD and trauma related issued. Psychosocial Stressors. Impulsivity and lack of control.
I have been a psychologist for many years and offer treatment for a range of issues among them: Adjustment to and coping with life/health changes, Fear of abandonment, Isolation, Assertiveness, Childhood and adolescent issues, Anxiety Panic disorder social awkwardness, anxiety secondary to medical condition, Specific phobias, Boundaries issues, personal development Care partner stress and burden, medically unexplained symptoms, Depression, sleep difficulties, Obsessive compulsive disorders, persistent pain, Parenting issues, Perfectionism, PTSD and trauma related issued. Psychosocial Stressors. Impulsivity and lack of control.
(437) 747-5168 View (437) 747-5168
Photo of Better Self - Psychotherapy & Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Better Self - Psychotherapy & Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MC
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M2N  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stuck? Depressed? Anxious? Are you struggling with bipolar disorder or relationship difficulties? Whatever is causing your pain, together we can identify the cause and work for positive change. Together, we can uncover the patterns of thoughts and behaviours that are holding you back. We can replace despair with hope, self-doubt with self-esteem, and sadness with joy. We can help you discover your better self.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stuck? Depressed? Anxious? Are you struggling with bipolar disorder or relationship difficulties? Whatever is causing your pain, together we can identify the cause and work for positive change. Together, we can uncover the patterns of thoughts and behaviours that are holding you back. We can replace despair with hope, self-doubt with self-esteem, and sadness with joy. We can help you discover your better self.
(647) 931-6085 View (647) 931-6085
Photo of Josh Sebastian, Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Josh Sebastian
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Are you feeling weighed down by life’s challenges? Trying to navigate your racial identity or BIPOC experiences? Have you or a loved one had a recent serious illness diagnosis or experiencing grief or loss? Or are you finding it challenging to reach out for support as a male when society has told you to always remain stoic? Welcome to the first step in exploring and creating change in your life. I know that searching for support that fits your needs can be challenging, but I am proud of you to have made it here, and I am honoured that I can possibly work with you to support you in creating that change!
Are you feeling weighed down by life’s challenges? Trying to navigate your racial identity or BIPOC experiences? Have you or a loved one had a recent serious illness diagnosis or experiencing grief or loss? Or are you finding it challenging to reach out for support as a male when society has told you to always remain stoic? Welcome to the first step in exploring and creating change in your life. I know that searching for support that fits your needs can be challenging, but I am proud of you to have made it here, and I am honoured that I can possibly work with you to support you in creating that change!
(289) 204-7621 View (289) 204-7621
Photo of Joshua Dvorkin, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Etobicoke, ON
Joshua Dvorkin
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MPsy
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5X
Do you suffer from a chronic health condition(s), a disability, or are going through a difficult life transition? Do you feel stuck because you're anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, and are uncertain how to move forward? Is it affecting your self esteem, your social life and relationships, and your ability to work. Do you deal with chronic pain, difficulty sleeping or staying focused or on task? I know that you can improve your resilience and have a better quality-of-life. Therapy can help teach you how to process your emotions, let go of the fear, and move forward in a way that works best for you.
Do you suffer from a chronic health condition(s), a disability, or are going through a difficult life transition? Do you feel stuck because you're anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, and are uncertain how to move forward? Is it affecting your self esteem, your social life and relationships, and your ability to work. Do you deal with chronic pain, difficulty sleeping or staying focused or on task? I know that you can improve your resilience and have a better quality-of-life. Therapy can help teach you how to process your emotions, let go of the fear, and move forward in a way that works best for you.
(289) 271-1904 View (289) 271-1904
Photo of Krystina Di Matteo, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Krystina Di Matteo
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z  (Online Only)
Welcome! I understand how uncomfortable and difficult it can be to reach out for help, and you have taken the most difficult step already. I’m happy to support you in your healing journey – you don’t have to do this alone. I support youth and adults around issues with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, and relationship issues. I’m also a proud ally of the LGBTQ2S+ community.
Welcome! I understand how uncomfortable and difficult it can be to reach out for help, and you have taken the most difficult step already. I’m happy to support you in your healing journey – you don’t have to do this alone. I support youth and adults around issues with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, and relationship issues. I’m also a proud ally of the LGBTQ2S+ community.
(289) 216-6653 View (289) 216-6653
Photo of Ken Walton, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Ken Walton
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd, BA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4K
As a holistic psychotherapist I help individuals and couples achieve inner transformation through healing the core psychological issues. With over 10 years experience, I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, addictions, self-esteem, obsessive thought patterns, and personal growth work. There are lots of psychoeducational videos of my approach at www.kenwalton.org We will use a tailored evidence based therapeutic approach. In a safe non-judgmental environment, we address the difficulties in your thought-belief systems, emotional complexes, and behavioural-patterns. www.kenwalton.org
As a holistic psychotherapist I help individuals and couples achieve inner transformation through healing the core psychological issues. With over 10 years experience, I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, addictions, self-esteem, obsessive thought patterns, and personal growth work. There are lots of psychoeducational videos of my approach at www.kenwalton.org We will use a tailored evidence based therapeutic approach. In a safe non-judgmental environment, we address the difficulties in your thought-belief systems, emotional complexes, and behavioural-patterns. www.kenwalton.org
(416) 659-1617 View (416) 659-1617
Photo of Jasmine Panesar, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Etobicoke, ON
Jasmine Panesar
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
"The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change." - Carl Rogers. As individuals, we spend our lives on a continuous expedition of self-discovery and personal growth, marked by highs and lows. Throughout our journey, therapy can become a guiding compass to build resilience and strength to overcome challenges that we may face along the way. Through embracing the transformative approach of self-acceptance, we accept our ability to cultivate positive change within ourselves and our relationships.
"The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change." - Carl Rogers. As individuals, we spend our lives on a continuous expedition of self-discovery and personal growth, marked by highs and lows. Throughout our journey, therapy can become a guiding compass to build resilience and strength to overcome challenges that we may face along the way. Through embracing the transformative approach of self-acceptance, we accept our ability to cultivate positive change within ourselves and our relationships.
(289) 302-7034 View (289) 302-7034
Photo of Jon Lewis, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Jon Lewis
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS IN PERSON AND REMOTELY** I pride myself in offering clients an approach that is dedicated to understanding their goals through a collaborative counselling experience. I create a safe and calm space to facilitate a strong therapeutic connection with clients. With gentle curiosity and openness, I invite clients to tell me about their world and experience, so I can learn from them. I believe that healing is possible for everyone and it is my joy to help a client unlock their full potential for happiness and health. It’s not about merely helping clients to survive the day to day but helping clients to thrive!
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS IN PERSON AND REMOTELY** I pride myself in offering clients an approach that is dedicated to understanding their goals through a collaborative counselling experience. I create a safe and calm space to facilitate a strong therapeutic connection with clients. With gentle curiosity and openness, I invite clients to tell me about their world and experience, so I can learn from them. I believe that healing is possible for everyone and it is my joy to help a client unlock their full potential for happiness and health. It’s not about merely helping clients to survive the day to day but helping clients to thrive!
(289) 216-6573 View (289) 216-6573
Photo of Faizah Latif, Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Faizah Latif
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5B  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients in Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia - Hi all! My name is Faizah and I am the founder of Duha Therapy. Duha signifies the morning brightness and embodies the values I carry in my work - warmth and gentleness. It is a huge step outside of your comfort zone to reach out for support. As your therapist, I meet you where you are at and provide tools for empowerment. I believe in creating an environment that is judgment free, focused on celebrating strengths, and where you can shine as your authentic self. I understand the intersecting identities of being a Canadian, a South Asian, and a Muslim.
Accepting new clients in Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia - Hi all! My name is Faizah and I am the founder of Duha Therapy. Duha signifies the morning brightness and embodies the values I carry in my work - warmth and gentleness. It is a huge step outside of your comfort zone to reach out for support. As your therapist, I meet you where you are at and provide tools for empowerment. I believe in creating an environment that is judgment free, focused on celebrating strengths, and where you can shine as your authentic self. I understand the intersecting identities of being a Canadian, a South Asian, and a Muslim.
(289) 274-2460 View (289) 274-2460
Photo of Paola DeLaBarrera, RN Psychotherapist, M.A. in Etobicoke, ON
Paola DeLaBarrera, RN Psychotherapist, M.A.
MA, BScN
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5P  (Online Only)
It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself, Paola DeLaBarrera, RN Psychotherapist/Counsellor/Life Coach with an MA in counselling. A bit about me, I am a seasoned professional with extensive and diverse experience in health, wellness, and education. I believe we hold great inner strength and energy and it is that inner strength that guides us to self-compassion and self-love. My therapeutic approach focuses on various humanistic modalities that connect mind and body awareness, my approach is centred on engaging with self and understanding who you are. I invite you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.
It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself, Paola DeLaBarrera, RN Psychotherapist/Counsellor/Life Coach with an MA in counselling. A bit about me, I am a seasoned professional with extensive and diverse experience in health, wellness, and education. I believe we hold great inner strength and energy and it is that inner strength that guides us to self-compassion and self-love. My therapeutic approach focuses on various humanistic modalities that connect mind and body awareness, my approach is centred on engaging with self and understanding who you are. I invite you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.
(647) 560-8895 View (647) 560-8895
Photo of Mary Ghazarian Nurse Practitioner Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Mary Ghazarian Nurse Practitioner Psychotherapist
MN, NP-PHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5A  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients for Virtual & Phone Therapy. Everyone deserves a space to explore, understand, and enhance their mental health. I am a compassionate and dedicated Nurse Practitioner Psychotherapist committed to guiding individuals on their transformative journey to mental well-being. I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, specializing in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for managing life and career related stress, anxiety or depression. I can also explore reversible causes like hormone and vitamin deficiencies to make sure we are addressing the root cause of your mental health concerns.
Accepting New Clients for Virtual & Phone Therapy. Everyone deserves a space to explore, understand, and enhance their mental health. I am a compassionate and dedicated Nurse Practitioner Psychotherapist committed to guiding individuals on their transformative journey to mental well-being. I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, specializing in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for managing life and career related stress, anxiety or depression. I can also explore reversible causes like hormone and vitamin deficiencies to make sure we are addressing the root cause of your mental health concerns.
(289) 212-6644 View (289) 212-6644

See more therapy options for Etobicoke


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.