Chronic Pain Therapists in Vaughan, ON

Photo of Antonia Villalba, Registered Psychotherapist in Vaughan, ON
Antonia Villalba
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CCC, HBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4L
I am also a certified life skills coach and group facilitator who has a special interest in sports performance and the treatment of pain.
I am the Founder and Clinical Director at Symphony Counselling Services. I have over 19 years of experience working in the Human Services sector and I am passionate about serving humanity. I have spent most of my life assisting individuals to heal from a variety of mental health challenges, trauma, and addictions. Working with children, youth, adults, and their families to regain strength, instil hope, and inspire therapeutic change so that they can live their best life has always been my motivation and drive.
I am also a certified life skills coach and group facilitator who has a special interest in sports performance and the treatment of pain.
I am the Founder and Clinical Director at Symphony Counselling Services. I have over 19 years of experience working in the Human Services sector and I am passionate about serving humanity. I have spent most of my life assisting individuals to heal from a variety of mental health challenges, trauma, and addictions. Working with children, youth, adults, and their families to regain strength, instil hope, and inspire therapeutic change so that they can live their best life has always been my motivation and drive.
(289) 275-9184 View (289) 275-9184
Photo of Nada Elfeki, Registered Psychotherapist in Vaughan, ON
Nada Elfeki
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, MSc
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L6A
My clients face a wide range of issues including: Depression, anxiety, chronic pain, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), life transitions, career transitions, relationship challenges and parenting issues. When I first start working with clients, we develop a list of goals that they would like to work towards so that our work is focused and directed. Some examples of goals my clients have worked towards and achieved include: acquiring tools to feel more in control of their depression and/or anxiety, becoming more assertive with others, improving their relationships and feeling more fulfilled with their career.
My clients face a wide range of issues including: Depression, anxiety, chronic pain, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), life transitions, career transitions, relationship challenges and parenting issues. When I first start working with clients, we develop a list of goals that they would like to work towards so that our work is focused and directed. Some examples of goals my clients have worked towards and achieved include: acquiring tools to feel more in control of their depression and/or anxiety, becoming more assertive with others, improving their relationships and feeling more fulfilled with their career.
(289) 277-6833 View (289) 277-6833
Photo of Shira Smith Bloomfield  | Chronic Pain | Burnt Out Parents, Registered Psychotherapist in Vaughan, ON
Shira Smith Bloomfield  | Chronic Pain | Burnt Out Parents
Registered Psychotherapist, BES, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4J  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Maybe you’ve been to therapy or deep-dived online for answers, numerous times. You’re also a highly sensitive person, an empath who feels like you are drowning. You are a deep thinker and meaning maker. You have strong values. You struggle to control or feel your emotions, chronically overextend yourself, feel stuck, and experience overwhelm. You may also be in chronic pain or discomfort. You may be neurodiverse. This might look like people pleasing, goodism, overthinking, avoidance, low self-esteem, procrastination, over planning, or burnout.
Accepting new clients! Maybe you’ve been to therapy or deep-dived online for answers, numerous times. You’re also a highly sensitive person, an empath who feels like you are drowning. You are a deep thinker and meaning maker. You have strong values. You struggle to control or feel your emotions, chronically overextend yourself, feel stuck, and experience overwhelm. You may also be in chronic pain or discomfort. You may be neurodiverse. This might look like people pleasing, goodism, overthinking, avoidance, low self-esteem, procrastination, over planning, or burnout.
(289) 272-8539 View (289) 272-8539
Photo of Anna Skomorovskaia, Registered Social Worker in Vaughan, ON
Anna Skomorovskaia
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RD, CDE
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4J  (Online Only)
I'm here to help you heal. Life can throw some tough stuff our way, but you don't have to face it alone. I offer personalized therapy using techniques like EMDR and Brainspotting, powerful methods that work with your brain and body to bring real relief. Whether you're struggling with past traumas, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in a cycle of depression, or dealing with chronic pain, I've got your back. As someone who's been through tough times myself, I know how important it is to have someone in your corner who really gets it. That's why I'm committed to providing compassionate support that's tailored to you.
I'm here to help you heal. Life can throw some tough stuff our way, but you don't have to face it alone. I offer personalized therapy using techniques like EMDR and Brainspotting, powerful methods that work with your brain and body to bring real relief. Whether you're struggling with past traumas, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in a cycle of depression, or dealing with chronic pain, I've got your back. As someone who's been through tough times myself, I know how important it is to have someone in your corner who really gets it. That's why I'm committed to providing compassionate support that's tailored to you.
(289) 274-6370 View (289) 274-6370
Photo of Eva Svoboda, Psychologist in Vaughan, ON
Eva Svoboda
Psychologist, MA, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
Dr. Eva Svoboda is a co-founding psychologist at Toronto Brain Health. She has significant experience treating individuals with persistent symptoms following concussion (e.g., headaches, sleep problems, low stress tolerance, anxiety, irritability, low mood, noise/light sensitivity), providing rehabilitation to those with acquired brain injury (e.g., stroke, brain tumor, epilepsy), and therapy for personal development, anxiety, stress, insomnia, chronic pain, depression, OCD & trauma. Her approach is compassionate and client-centered. Her treatment is informed by research in neuroscience, rehabilitation & psychological therapy.
Dr. Eva Svoboda is a co-founding psychologist at Toronto Brain Health. She has significant experience treating individuals with persistent symptoms following concussion (e.g., headaches, sleep problems, low stress tolerance, anxiety, irritability, low mood, noise/light sensitivity), providing rehabilitation to those with acquired brain injury (e.g., stroke, brain tumor, epilepsy), and therapy for personal development, anxiety, stress, insomnia, chronic pain, depression, OCD & trauma. Her approach is compassionate and client-centered. Her treatment is informed by research in neuroscience, rehabilitation & psychological therapy.
(289) 210-5996 View (289) 210-5996
Photo of Andrea De Luca, Registered Social Worker in Vaughan, ON
Andrea De Luca
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, RSW, MACP, RP-Q
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with chronic pain or trauma and consistently feel like your experiences are dismissed by those around you? Do you feel exhausted by over-explaining your symptoms to friends, family, and even medical professionals? Are you finding yourself stuck in cycles of sadness, isolation, hopelessness, and fear, impacting your relationships, job performance, parenting, or other roles in your life. As someone living with a chronic illness, I have been through this cycle that feels impossible to get out of. Worries about the future become so overwhelming and navigating the present moment becomes blurry. You are not alone!
Do you struggle with chronic pain or trauma and consistently feel like your experiences are dismissed by those around you? Do you feel exhausted by over-explaining your symptoms to friends, family, and even medical professionals? Are you finding yourself stuck in cycles of sadness, isolation, hopelessness, and fear, impacting your relationships, job performance, parenting, or other roles in your life. As someone living with a chronic illness, I have been through this cycle that feels impossible to get out of. Worries about the future become so overwhelming and navigating the present moment becomes blurry. You are not alone!
(289) 274-9545 View (289) 274-9545
Photo of Kerry Lynne McRorie, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Vaughan, ON
Kerry Lynne McRorie
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MEd , MACP, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4H
If you are an individual adult looking to heal attachment wounds, process trauma, or cultivate strategies to manage anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, or chronic illness, I would love the opportunity to see if we would be a good therapeutic fit for one another. Many people who contact me have been told they may be an ideal candidate for EMDR. Others may have sought traditional talk therapy for their developmental trauma in the past but are now curious about a different evidence-based treatment that combines both a top-down (cognitive) and a bottom-up (somatic) approach.
If you are an individual adult looking to heal attachment wounds, process trauma, or cultivate strategies to manage anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, or chronic illness, I would love the opportunity to see if we would be a good therapeutic fit for one another. Many people who contact me have been told they may be an ideal candidate for EMDR. Others may have sought traditional talk therapy for their developmental trauma in the past but are now curious about a different evidence-based treatment that combines both a top-down (cognitive) and a bottom-up (somatic) approach.
(289) 301-9051 View (289) 301-9051
Photo of Lalia Palacio, Psychotherapy Services, Registered Social Worker in Vaughan, ON
Lalia Palacio, Psychotherapy Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K  (Online Only)
Are you overwhelmed or shutdown or struggling? Are you unable to let go of the trauma that keeps you stuck in the past or stuck in 'survival mode'? Are your relationships strained? It takes courage to recognize something isn't right & embark on a healing path. I specialize in PTSD, complex trauma, personality disorders, anxiety, depression, maladaptive anger, addiction, relationship issues, crisis, life transitions, chronic pain, and more. I can help you gain valuable insights into your challenges, heal emotional wounds, restore a sense of safety & connection, & learn transformative coping skills. Supervision/consultation available.
Are you overwhelmed or shutdown or struggling? Are you unable to let go of the trauma that keeps you stuck in the past or stuck in 'survival mode'? Are your relationships strained? It takes courage to recognize something isn't right & embark on a healing path. I specialize in PTSD, complex trauma, personality disorders, anxiety, depression, maladaptive anger, addiction, relationship issues, crisis, life transitions, chronic pain, and more. I can help you gain valuable insights into your challenges, heal emotional wounds, restore a sense of safety & connection, & learn transformative coping skills. Supervision/consultation available.
(647) 490-8944 View (647) 490-8944
Photo of Karen Trainoff, Registered Social Service Worker in Vaughan, ON
Karen Trainoff
Registered Social Service Worker, MSc, MAPP, RSSW, RD
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4J  (Online Only)
I have a Master’s of Science in Applied Positive Psychology and I specialize in life-related difficulties, including illness diagnosis, living with chronic illness/pain, caregiver fatigue, bereavement, job loss, divorce, life transition and relationship conflict.
Are you looking to embrace a brighter future filled with meaning and purpose? Have you experienced grief, loss or challenging life tranitions that are holding you back? Life’s challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed and stuck both mentally and physically, shaking our confidence and leaving us feeling numb making it hard to make decisions and move forward. My practice is trauma-informed and hope-centered. Together, we’ll address negative patterns, difficult experiences and create a practical plan that will help you achieve realistic, sustainable and positive change. A brighter path is possible.
I have a Master’s of Science in Applied Positive Psychology and I specialize in life-related difficulties, including illness diagnosis, living with chronic illness/pain, caregiver fatigue, bereavement, job loss, divorce, life transition and relationship conflict.
Are you looking to embrace a brighter future filled with meaning and purpose? Have you experienced grief, loss or challenging life tranitions that are holding you back? Life’s challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed and stuck both mentally and physically, shaking our confidence and leaving us feeling numb making it hard to make decisions and move forward. My practice is trauma-informed and hope-centered. Together, we’ll address negative patterns, difficult experiences and create a practical plan that will help you achieve realistic, sustainable and positive change. A brighter path is possible.
(365) 655-5687 View (365) 655-5687
Photo of Giselle Braganza, Psychologist in Vaughan, ON
Giselle Braganza
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
I completed my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and I am licensed to practice clinical psychology and neuropsychology in Ontario. I specialize in working with adults who sustained brain injuries and experience anxiety, depression, and pain. I see people for neuropsychological and psychological assessments and treatment. My practice focuses on treatment, medical legal and catastrophic assessments.
I completed my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and I am licensed to practice clinical psychology and neuropsychology in Ontario. I specialize in working with adults who sustained brain injuries and experience anxiety, depression, and pain. I see people for neuropsychological and psychological assessments and treatment. My practice focuses on treatment, medical legal and catastrophic assessments.
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Photo of Olivia Morano, Registered Psychotherapist in Vaughan, ON
Olivia Morano
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L
I believe that everyone has unique views, perspectives, and past experiences and in my work with my clients, these are recognized and we make them part of the therapeutic journey. This allows for each of my client’s therapy process to be very individual to them and their unique needs and wants. I find that this approach works well with individuals struggling emotionally, experiencing anxiety, depression, physical pain, and relationship issues. Clients come to me to process and heaI from trauma and loss in all its forms.
I believe that everyone has unique views, perspectives, and past experiences and in my work with my clients, these are recognized and we make them part of the therapeutic journey. This allows for each of my client’s therapy process to be very individual to them and their unique needs and wants. I find that this approach works well with individuals struggling emotionally, experiencing anxiety, depression, physical pain, and relationship issues. Clients come to me to process and heaI from trauma and loss in all its forms.
(289) 796-3210 View (289) 796-3210
Photo of Laura Roberta Moll, Registered Social Worker in Vaughan, ON
Laura Roberta Moll
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW RSW, CGT, BEC
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4J
I engage in individual client-centred psychosocial assessment and counselling to help individuals and families confronted with chronic illness and /or disability work one on one with our clients to move past and through the trauma of illness and/or injury towards a future that is filled with possibility, joy, and hope .
I am a very enthusiastic, compassionate, and highly motivated self-directed health care professional with a physical disability committed to enhancing the well-being of individuals and families living with chronic illness and/or disability through clinical practice, education, and research at all phases of development, individually, and in collaboration with other stakeholders. I adhere to client-centred, and strength-oriented approaches to psychosocial assessment and counselling when working with these individuals. I am also cognizant of the impact of past and current socio-economic, bio-psychosocial, and health care policies a
I engage in individual client-centred psychosocial assessment and counselling to help individuals and families confronted with chronic illness and /or disability work one on one with our clients to move past and through the trauma of illness and/or injury towards a future that is filled with possibility, joy, and hope .
I am a very enthusiastic, compassionate, and highly motivated self-directed health care professional with a physical disability committed to enhancing the well-being of individuals and families living with chronic illness and/or disability through clinical practice, education, and research at all phases of development, individually, and in collaboration with other stakeholders. I adhere to client-centred, and strength-oriented approaches to psychosocial assessment and counselling when working with these individuals. I am also cognizant of the impact of past and current socio-economic, bio-psychosocial, and health care policies a
(647) 957-9921 View (647) 957-9921
Photo of Joy Pekar, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Vaughan, ON
Joy Pekar
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4J
It's not about taking pain away, but if you'd like, it can help you find joy.
Do you feel stuck? Are you overwhelmed? When the challenges in life feel like too much, it can help to talk with someone. I offer a compassionate space for all people, regardless of ability, race, religion, ethnicity, gender, or sexuality. I take an anti-oppressive, anti-ableist, and trauma informed approach to therapy to ensure that everyone has a place where they can feel heard without fear of judgement.
It's not about taking pain away, but if you'd like, it can help you find joy.
Do you feel stuck? Are you overwhelmed? When the challenges in life feel like too much, it can help to talk with someone. I offer a compassionate space for all people, regardless of ability, race, religion, ethnicity, gender, or sexuality. I take an anti-oppressive, anti-ableist, and trauma informed approach to therapy to ensure that everyone has a place where they can feel heard without fear of judgement.
(289) 271-0571 View (289) 271-0571
Photo of Luminare Counselling, Registered Social Worker in Vaughan, ON
Luminare Counselling
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4H  (Online Only)
Do you lie awake at night because you are feeling overwhelmed and anxious about the obstacles life has thrown at you? Feel detached and confused about a relationship that you feel “stuck” in? Depressed and having difficulty adjusting to a new illness involving you or your loved one? Unresolved anger creating trouble in your relationships and workplace? Or are you at the end of your rope because you are deeply concerned about your child’s behavior? To best suit your individual needs, I offer a variety of evidenced based approaches in a safe space where you can feel free to be 100% of yourself without worrying about being judged.
Do you lie awake at night because you are feeling overwhelmed and anxious about the obstacles life has thrown at you? Feel detached and confused about a relationship that you feel “stuck” in? Depressed and having difficulty adjusting to a new illness involving you or your loved one? Unresolved anger creating trouble in your relationships and workplace? Or are you at the end of your rope because you are deeply concerned about your child’s behavior? To best suit your individual needs, I offer a variety of evidenced based approaches in a safe space where you can feel free to be 100% of yourself without worrying about being judged.
(647) 371-1300 View (647) 371-1300
Photo of Sara Saniee, Registered Social Worker in Vaughan, ON
Sara Saniee
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L6A
Are you tired of living in "survival mode"? Either feeling chronically unsettled or inexpressibly low and numb! Perhaps, something feels missing; an emptiness you can’t quite put your finger on! There comes a time when just getting by is not enough and we can no longer hide behind a smile. Change begins when we decide that "waiting for the pain to dissipate" is no longer an option. So what if you could take back control of your life and live unchained by your history? How far would you thrive if you could tailor a life of your own design, uninterrupted by stress, anxiety or pain stories?
Are you tired of living in "survival mode"? Either feeling chronically unsettled or inexpressibly low and numb! Perhaps, something feels missing; an emptiness you can’t quite put your finger on! There comes a time when just getting by is not enough and we can no longer hide behind a smile. Change begins when we decide that "waiting for the pain to dissipate" is no longer an option. So what if you could take back control of your life and live unchained by your history? How far would you thrive if you could tailor a life of your own design, uninterrupted by stress, anxiety or pain stories?
(289) 217-0906 View (289) 217-0906
Photo of Lolita Abramyan, Registered Psychotherapist in Vaughan, ON
Lolita Abramyan
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L
We all want to be understood. In fact, it's one of our primary needs. I am here to offer help to anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, fears/phobias, chronic pain, loss and grief, interpersonal relationships, and more. If you are looking for guidance and understanding, and would like to learn healthy ways of coping with life's challenges, I would be happy to support you towards greater self-development and healthier functioning. My goal is to help my clients become happier, healthier, and more balanced. Please contact me directly at 416-206-5563 to ensure a prompt response.
We all want to be understood. In fact, it's one of our primary needs. I am here to offer help to anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, fears/phobias, chronic pain, loss and grief, interpersonal relationships, and more. If you are looking for guidance and understanding, and would like to learn healthy ways of coping with life's challenges, I would be happy to support you towards greater self-development and healthier functioning. My goal is to help my clients become happier, healthier, and more balanced. Please contact me directly at 416-206-5563 to ensure a prompt response.
(416) 206-5563 View (416) 206-5563
Photo of Jessica Israelstam, Registered Psychotherapist in Vaughan, ON
Jessica Israelstam
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K  (Online Only)
To suffer is human – but to grow and heal is also human. In life, you might experience stress, anxiety, self-criticism, anger, difficult transitions or relationships, chronic pain/health issues, trauma, sleep disturbance, and other challenges. Sometimes, you might feel so stuck or overwhelmed that your usual coping tools are not quite enough. It can be helpful to seek support from a professional who empowers you to overcome life’s challenges by helping you tap into your inner resources and develop new ones. I am a therapist with several years of experience offering such support.
To suffer is human – but to grow and heal is also human. In life, you might experience stress, anxiety, self-criticism, anger, difficult transitions or relationships, chronic pain/health issues, trauma, sleep disturbance, and other challenges. Sometimes, you might feel so stuck or overwhelmed that your usual coping tools are not quite enough. It can be helpful to seek support from a professional who empowers you to overcome life’s challenges by helping you tap into your inner resources and develop new ones. I am a therapist with several years of experience offering such support.
(647) 694-8939 View (647) 694-8939
Photo of Parminder Nijjer- Healthy Mind Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Vaughan, ON
Parminder Nijjer- Healthy Mind Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BED
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4H
Motivated and compassionate Mental Health Professional with a demonstrated history of working in the mental health care industry. I have extensive experience with adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, behavioral issues, coping effectively with stress, social skills training, self-esteem, pain management, emotional healing with attachment lens, Trauma, and relationship issues. I work collaboratively with my clients to resurface and reconnect to resources within them to live a fulfilled and balanced life.
Motivated and compassionate Mental Health Professional with a demonstrated history of working in the mental health care industry. I have extensive experience with adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, behavioral issues, coping effectively with stress, social skills training, self-esteem, pain management, emotional healing with attachment lens, Trauma, and relationship issues. I work collaboratively with my clients to resurface and reconnect to resources within them to live a fulfilled and balanced life.
(877) 837-3524 View (877) 837-3524
Photo of Strength Counselling Services, Counsellor in Vaughan, ON
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4H  (Online Only)
We have combined our extensive professional experience with lessons learned from our own personal healing so we are capable of recognizing the depth of pain our clients experience.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We have combined our extensive professional experience with lessons learned from our own personal healing so we are capable of recognizing the depth of pain our clients experience.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(249) 202-2308 View (249) 202-2308
Photo of Marissa Martins, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Vaughan, ON
Marissa Martins
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K  (Online Only)
Maybe life feels especially difficult right now and you are ready to start working through some long-standing challenges. It might feel due time to really understand yourself better and grow past the pain points you’ve been carrying for so long. Whatever your reasons for seeking counselling, I'll be the skilled and dedicated collaborator who will use my education, experience, and resources in our time together. One size doesn't fit all, so I look forward to building a counselling space that works well for you specifically. You and your story will be welcome with open arms here.
Maybe life feels especially difficult right now and you are ready to start working through some long-standing challenges. It might feel due time to really understand yourself better and grow past the pain points you’ve been carrying for so long. Whatever your reasons for seeking counselling, I'll be the skilled and dedicated collaborator who will use my education, experience, and resources in our time together. One size doesn't fit all, so I look forward to building a counselling space that works well for you specifically. You and your story will be welcome with open arms here.
(365) 675-0278 View (365) 675-0278

See more therapy options for Vaughan

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.