Chronic Pain Counselling in Deepcut

There are no results for counsellors in Deepcut

Check out counsellors located nearby or offering teletherapy in England below.

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amber Johnston, Psychologist in Deepcut, England
Amber Johnston
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
I have been working with people for over fifteen years to adapt to the challenges life bring, whether it be ongoing mental health struggles, physical illness, or specific events creating stress and upset/trauma.
Hi there! I am Amber, the Director of Healthy Mind Psychology. We aim to be a different type of practice. Our focus includes work with those people trying to cope with all the stresses and strains of unprecedented times upon us. But many struggle with issues outside of the normal narrative of mental health, or physical health too. Our practice aims to explain the stress response (whether that be from overdue bills, a critical family system, a harsh workplace, current or previous traumas, or a host of other things!) and the science behind how the mind/body interact to create physical symptoms, emotional distress, or bad habits!
I have been working with people for over fifteen years to adapt to the challenges life bring, whether it be ongoing mental health struggles, physical illness, or specific events creating stress and upset/trauma.
Hi there! I am Amber, the Director of Healthy Mind Psychology. We aim to be a different type of practice. Our focus includes work with those people trying to cope with all the stresses and strains of unprecedented times upon us. But many struggle with issues outside of the normal narrative of mental health, or physical health too. Our practice aims to explain the stress response (whether that be from overdue bills, a critical family system, a harsh workplace, current or previous traumas, or a host of other things!) and the science behind how the mind/body interact to create physical symptoms, emotional distress, or bad habits!
0118 207 2661 View 0118 207 2661
Photo of Susan Webb, Psychologist in Deepcut, England
Susan Webb
Psychologist, PsychD, AFBPSsS
Verified Verified
Woking GU21
I am highly skilled in CBT and I specialise in the areas of chronic pain and OCD.
Have you been struggling with something which is interfering with you being able to get on with your usual things? Maybe you have been feeling down more than usual, or feeling very anxious and tired for a long time. Changes in your ability to sleep, eat or concentrate for a while could mean that you are depressed, or that anxiety is overwhelming you and stopping you from functioning properly. Life events such as illness, bereavement, divorce, trauma or even great events like becoming a parent or grandparent can create changes that are hard to cope with. If so, a therapist can help you to get back on your feet again.
I am highly skilled in CBT and I specialise in the areas of chronic pain and OCD.
Have you been struggling with something which is interfering with you being able to get on with your usual things? Maybe you have been feeling down more than usual, or feeling very anxious and tired for a long time. Changes in your ability to sleep, eat or concentrate for a while could mean that you are depressed, or that anxiety is overwhelming you and stopping you from functioning properly. Life events such as illness, bereavement, divorce, trauma or even great events like becoming a parent or grandparent can create changes that are hard to cope with. If so, a therapist can help you to get back on your feet again.
01483 694445 View 01483 694445
Photo of Andrew Byrne, Psychotherapist in Deepcut, England
Andrew Byrne
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Farnborough GU14
I'm a qualified and experienced Integrative & Short-term dynamic psychotherapist and supervisor based in Farnborough. I work with a range of conditions, my specialist areas are emotional neglect, anxiety, depression, attachment, trauma, addictions, anger, bereavement, personality disorders, chronic pain & CFS/ME. I'm offering to face to face appointments in Farnborough. I am also continuing to provide online appointments.
I'm a qualified and experienced Integrative & Short-term dynamic psychotherapist and supervisor based in Farnborough. I work with a range of conditions, my specialist areas are emotional neglect, anxiety, depression, attachment, trauma, addictions, anger, bereavement, personality disorders, chronic pain & CFS/ME. I'm offering to face to face appointments in Farnborough. I am also continuing to provide online appointments.
01252 968052 View 01252 968052
Photo of Natalie Meek, Psychotherapist in Deepcut, England
Natalie Meek
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1  (Online Only)
I have a particular passion for supporting people who are living with Long Term Physical health conditions, such as chronic pain, IBS, and Long COVID utilising Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) approaches. I also provide clinical supervision to trainee CBT therapists and accredited therapists. I also frequently work with neurodivergent people who may be struggling with stress, anxiety, emotional regulation, or low mood. I have delivered workshops for the BABCP on working with members LQBTQIA+ community and deliver inclusive CBT for all genders and sexualities.
I have a particular passion for supporting people who are living with Long Term Physical health conditions, such as chronic pain, IBS, and Long COVID utilising Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) approaches. I also provide clinical supervision to trainee CBT therapists and accredited therapists. I also frequently work with neurodivergent people who may be struggling with stress, anxiety, emotional regulation, or low mood. I have delivered workshops for the BABCP on working with members LQBTQIA+ community and deliver inclusive CBT for all genders and sexualities.
01529 404558 View 01529 404558
Photo of Sian Melville, Psychotherapist in Deepcut, England
Sian Melville
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hook RG27
Hello I'm Sian Melville and I run Lifted Therapy. . I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with nearly 10 years experience in physical and mental healthcare settings. I specialise in supporting adults experiencing anxiety, depression and Long Term Physical Health Conditions including Diabetes, COPD, Heart Conditions, Chronic Pain and IBS. My aim is to support and help you make peace with your thoughts and emotions and help make sense of what is happening in a warm and supportive therapy space and help you to live the life you want, in line with your values.
Hello I'm Sian Melville and I run Lifted Therapy. . I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with nearly 10 years experience in physical and mental healthcare settings. I specialise in supporting adults experiencing anxiety, depression and Long Term Physical Health Conditions including Diabetes, COPD, Heart Conditions, Chronic Pain and IBS. My aim is to support and help you make peace with your thoughts and emotions and help make sense of what is happening in a warm and supportive therapy space and help you to live the life you want, in line with your values.
01256 975045 View 01256 975045
Photo of Sarah Holburn, Counsellor in Deepcut, England
Sarah Holburn
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU2
Life can be challenging for many reasons. I aim to provide you with a warm, safe and confidential space to explore what is troubling you. I appreciate that it can be daunting to seek help when things are difficult. I am passionate about the benefits of both short and long-term talking therapy to reduce isolation and uncover choices. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, chronic illness, disability, loneliness, trauma, abuse; sexual and psychological, domestic violence, work related stress, addiction, parenting issues, infertility, loss and bereavement and more - contact me to discuss.
Life can be challenging for many reasons. I aim to provide you with a warm, safe and confidential space to explore what is troubling you. I appreciate that it can be daunting to seek help when things are difficult. I am passionate about the benefits of both short and long-term talking therapy to reduce isolation and uncover choices. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, chronic illness, disability, loneliness, trauma, abuse; sexual and psychological, domestic violence, work related stress, addiction, parenting issues, infertility, loss and bereavement and more - contact me to discuss.
01252 978285 View 01252 978285
Photo of Grant Roberts, Psychotherapist in Deepcut, England
Grant Roberts
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
Hello, I am an integrative psychotherapist & counsellor specialising in body image insecurities, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, grief, and chronic and terminal illness. Alongside this I also offer psychology led life coaching to encourage personal and professional growth. Through a safe, empathic and accepting relationship, I hope to help enable you to greater self-acceptance, self awareness and self worth.
Hello, I am an integrative psychotherapist & counsellor specialising in body image insecurities, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, grief, and chronic and terminal illness. Alongside this I also offer psychology led life coaching to encourage personal and professional growth. Through a safe, empathic and accepting relationship, I hope to help enable you to greater self-acceptance, self awareness and self worth.
01428 770618 View 01428 770618
Photo of Caroline Ellison Counselling, Counsellor in Deepcut, England
Caroline Ellison Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fleet GU51
I offer Individual and Couples Therapy in-person and online. I'll support you with kindness, compassion, empathy and understanding. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, stress or something else and are looking for support from someone who will listen without judgement in a confidential and safe environment please get in touch. Are you a carer looking after a loved one with a life limiting illness? or generally just don’t feel good about yourself? Whether you are looking to cope with a specific mental health issue, better manage unpleasant emotions or simply want to feel better about yourself, counselling can help.
I offer Individual and Couples Therapy in-person and online. I'll support you with kindness, compassion, empathy and understanding. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, stress or something else and are looking for support from someone who will listen without judgement in a confidential and safe environment please get in touch. Are you a carer looking after a loved one with a life limiting illness? or generally just don’t feel good about yourself? Whether you are looking to cope with a specific mental health issue, better manage unpleasant emotions or simply want to feel better about yourself, counselling can help.
01252 959728 View 01252 959728
Photo of Trevor Beech, Psychotherapist in Deepcut, England
Trevor Beech
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1  (Online Only)
I have successfully helped clients with Post-traumatic stress (PTSD), depression/Anxiety, Fibromyalgia, Chronic fatigue, body image, weight loss, eating disorders, all forms of abuse, Panic Attacks, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Hello, I'm Trevor. I am a highly skilled and fully qualified Psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience. I am a BACP member and committed to good practice and ethical conduct. I work with preteens to adults in individual and group therapy sessions delivered online and on the telephone. Feedback from a client is a testament to the way I work: “If you choose Trevor, you will feel understood, listened to, accepted, supported, encouraged, and, I have no doubt, in the end, a brand-new person.” I have specific expertise in EMDR, a trauma therapy, to help people with mental health conditions including trauma
I have successfully helped clients with Post-traumatic stress (PTSD), depression/Anxiety, Fibromyalgia, Chronic fatigue, body image, weight loss, eating disorders, all forms of abuse, Panic Attacks, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Hello, I'm Trevor. I am a highly skilled and fully qualified Psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience. I am a BACP member and committed to good practice and ethical conduct. I work with preteens to adults in individual and group therapy sessions delivered online and on the telephone. Feedback from a client is a testament to the way I work: “If you choose Trevor, you will feel understood, listened to, accepted, supported, encouraged, and, I have no doubt, in the end, a brand-new person.” I have specific expertise in EMDR, a trauma therapy, to help people with mental health conditions including trauma
07723 579127 View 07723 579127
Photo of Kirsty Bunce, Counsellor in Deepcut, England
Kirsty Bunce
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Farnham GU9
I have successfully worked with clients suffering from the following: Relationship issues, loss, PTSD, Historic abuse, Sexual abuse, Dysphoria, Domestic violence, Illness, Anxiety, Depression, Panic, Self-harm, Low self esteem, Work issues, Stress, Family issues, PND, Personal Development, Chronic illness, Sexual issues, Anger, Stress, Trauma, OCD.
Struggling with difficult thoughts and feelings can be horrible, but asking for help and embarking on change can be scary too. I can help you to discover a way forward from where you're feeling stuck, be the person who truly listens and understands your unique experience, and helps you to understand it. There may be lots of reasons why you're considering counselling - difficulties or worries in your emotional life, feeling distressed and needing help with a specific issue, struggling to come to terms with a traumatic event or loss, or seeking a clearer perspective on your life, I can help you to explore and move on with living.
I have successfully worked with clients suffering from the following: Relationship issues, loss, PTSD, Historic abuse, Sexual abuse, Dysphoria, Domestic violence, Illness, Anxiety, Depression, Panic, Self-harm, Low self esteem, Work issues, Stress, Family issues, PND, Personal Development, Chronic illness, Sexual issues, Anger, Stress, Trauma, OCD.
Struggling with difficult thoughts and feelings can be horrible, but asking for help and embarking on change can be scary too. I can help you to discover a way forward from where you're feeling stuck, be the person who truly listens and understands your unique experience, and helps you to understand it. There may be lots of reasons why you're considering counselling - difficulties or worries in your emotional life, feeling distressed and needing help with a specific issue, struggling to come to terms with a traumatic event or loss, or seeking a clearer perspective on your life, I can help you to explore and move on with living.
01252 942442 View 01252 942442
Photo of Rachel Ilett, Counsellor in Deepcut, England
Rachel Ilett
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU3
I have worked with clients through times of struggle and uncertainty including illness or loss of a loved one, work or relationship issues.
Sometimes life can leave us finding it difficult to cope or just to make sense of things at a challenging time. This can lead to feeling overwhelmed by emotions such as anger, frustration, anxiety, loneliness, or sadness. Or perhaps you are having difficulty in your day-to-day relationships either at work, with friends, partner or child? Or you may be having difficulty dealing with mental health problems. Maybe you feel stuck or unable to control your negative feelings or there may be something from the past which is bothering you and you feel you would like to explore this further to make sense of where you are now.
I have worked with clients through times of struggle and uncertainty including illness or loss of a loved one, work or relationship issues.
Sometimes life can leave us finding it difficult to cope or just to make sense of things at a challenging time. This can lead to feeling overwhelmed by emotions such as anger, frustration, anxiety, loneliness, or sadness. Or perhaps you are having difficulty in your day-to-day relationships either at work, with friends, partner or child? Or you may be having difficulty dealing with mental health problems. Maybe you feel stuck or unable to control your negative feelings or there may be something from the past which is bothering you and you feel you would like to explore this further to make sense of where you are now.
01483 967561 View 01483 967561
Photo of Evelyn Gaunt, Counsellor in Deepcut, England
Evelyn Gaunt
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Guildford GU3
EMDR Therapy can be helpful for PTSD and Trauma, whether a one off incident or chronic trauma such as childhood abuse or neglect and many other mental health presentations, such as body dysmorphia, grief, self-esteem, chronic pain, anxiety, sexual assault, childhood neglect, domestic abuse and more. Many of these presentations can leave you feeling isolated, frustrated and helpless, by processing these via bilateral stimulation to a resolution, life can become more manageable and less triggering, allowing you to achieve your goals.
EMDR Therapy can be helpful for PTSD and Trauma, whether a one off incident or chronic trauma such as childhood abuse or neglect and many other mental health presentations, such as body dysmorphia, grief, self-esteem, chronic pain, anxiety, sexual assault, childhood neglect, domestic abuse and more. Many of these presentations can leave you feeling isolated, frustrated and helpless, by processing these via bilateral stimulation to a resolution, life can become more manageable and less triggering, allowing you to achieve your goals.
01483 694867 View 01483 694867
Photo of Dr Kushangi Patel, Psychologist in Deepcut, England
Dr Kushangi Patel
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Guildford GU2
I'm a Clinical Psychologist based in Guildford, providing therapeutic services to young adults and adults aged 16 years and over. I qualified with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2003, and have over twenty years experience supporting and working with adults from a range of diverse backgrounds providing psychological intervention and guidance for a broad spectrum of mental health issues. During my career I have worked mainly in general adult mental health and in addition have specialised in helping people cope with the impact of chronic illness and long-term health conditions.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist based in Guildford, providing therapeutic services to young adults and adults aged 16 years and over. I qualified with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2003, and have over twenty years experience supporting and working with adults from a range of diverse backgrounds providing psychological intervention and guidance for a broad spectrum of mental health issues. During my career I have worked mainly in general adult mental health and in addition have specialised in helping people cope with the impact of chronic illness and long-term health conditions.
01793 540677 View 01793 540677
Photo of Dr Debbie Lovell, Psychologist in Deepcut, England
Dr Debbie Lovell
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Ascot SL5
My doctoral research was in female sexual pain disorders.
I am one of a small number of practitioners in the UK who is dually qualified as a chartered psychologist and a sex therapist. My clients may seek help for a specific sexual difficulty such as desire or arousal concerns; or may experience broader distress which also manifests in their sexual and relational world such as low self esteem or perfectionism.
My doctoral research was in female sexual pain disorders.
I am one of a small number of practitioners in the UK who is dually qualified as a chartered psychologist and a sex therapist. My clients may seek help for a specific sexual difficulty such as desire or arousal concerns; or may experience broader distress which also manifests in their sexual and relational world such as low self esteem or perfectionism.
020 3909 9821 View 020 3909 9821
Photo of Sophie Bice, Counsellor in Deepcut, England
Sophie Bice
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Chilworth GU4
I have developed a particular interest in working with individuals and groups experiencing anxiety, stress, loss, grief and bereavement and have extensively supported those affected by cancer and terminal illness.
Throughout life we all experience times of uncertainty, but now more than ever it might feel hard to navigate the challenges thrown at you in this uncertain world. Whatever your concerns, I can offer you a safe, respectful space in which to voice and explore difficult thoughts and emotions without fear of judgement. Whether you have a specific concern such as anxiety, depression, panic, grief, or relationship issues, or a more general feeling of dissatisfaction, discontentment or unease, you do not have to struggle alone. Talking with a counsellor can offer restorative insight & perspective and help bring about positive change.
I have developed a particular interest in working with individuals and groups experiencing anxiety, stress, loss, grief and bereavement and have extensively supported those affected by cancer and terminal illness.
Throughout life we all experience times of uncertainty, but now more than ever it might feel hard to navigate the challenges thrown at you in this uncertain world. Whatever your concerns, I can offer you a safe, respectful space in which to voice and explore difficult thoughts and emotions without fear of judgement. Whether you have a specific concern such as anxiety, depression, panic, grief, or relationship issues, or a more general feeling of dissatisfaction, discontentment or unease, you do not have to struggle alone. Talking with a counsellor can offer restorative insight & perspective and help bring about positive change.
07411 277378 View 07411 277378
Photo of Sarah Anne Newton, Counsellor in Deepcut, England
Sarah Anne Newton
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bracknell RG12
I specialise in counselling family members and individuals who are struggling with bereavement, grief, and loss — other areas of counselling - Depression, anxiety, Chronic illness, Family issues, Stress and Loneliness.
My name is Sarah, and I am a pluralistic counsellor who uses different modalities to suit your needs. I will work alongside you to help you become more self-aware about your feelings and develop coping strategies to achieve your goals.
I specialise in counselling family members and individuals who are struggling with bereavement, grief, and loss — other areas of counselling - Depression, anxiety, Chronic illness, Family issues, Stress and Loneliness.
My name is Sarah, and I am a pluralistic counsellor who uses different modalities to suit your needs. I will work alongside you to help you become more self-aware about your feelings and develop coping strategies to achieve your goals.
0118 230 5536 View 0118 230 5536
Photo of Hannah Regan, Counsellor in Deepcut, England
Hannah Regan
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Godalming GU7
I am an experienced counsellor with a background in working with people who've been affected by cancer and terminal illness.
In an ever-changing and uncertain world, counselling is an opportunity to take stock and reflect on how life feels for you. No matter what your concern might be, I can give you a safe place to explore your unique take on life. Difficult thoughts and feelings can be listened to respectfully and without fear of being judged. Whether you're feeling anxious, unfulfilled or unable to cope - you don't have to face your struggle alone. Talking things through can lighten the emotional load, restore perspective and bring positive change.
I am an experienced counsellor with a background in working with people who've been affected by cancer and terminal illness.
In an ever-changing and uncertain world, counselling is an opportunity to take stock and reflect on how life feels for you. No matter what your concern might be, I can give you a safe place to explore your unique take on life. Difficult thoughts and feelings can be listened to respectfully and without fear of being judged. Whether you're feeling anxious, unfulfilled or unable to cope - you don't have to face your struggle alone. Talking things through can lighten the emotional load, restore perspective and bring positive change.
07478 062455 View 07478 062455
Photo of Julie Easterbrook Counselling MBACP (Accred), Counsellor in Deepcut, England
Julie Easterbrook Counselling MBACP (Accred)
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Crowthorne RG45
My niche has developed overtime resulting in specialisit areas of working with young adults 11-25,, clients with chromic or long term illness such as Fibromyalgia and Cancer and finally infant and child death.
By combining my therapeutic models, I am able to provide a unique approach for each client which will help you to gain insight into your issue, enabling you to bring about change. The therapy lies in the realationship between the client and counsellor, where trust and respect is developed and at the centre of each session, and is integral in the way I work. I have experience working with adults and young people, helping with a wide range of issues. Therapy offered can be either short or long term at flexible times during the day and evening depending on the needs/requirements for each client.
My niche has developed overtime resulting in specialisit areas of working with young adults 11-25,, clients with chromic or long term illness such as Fibromyalgia and Cancer and finally infant and child death.
By combining my therapeutic models, I am able to provide a unique approach for each client which will help you to gain insight into your issue, enabling you to bring about change. The therapy lies in the realationship between the client and counsellor, where trust and respect is developed and at the centre of each session, and is integral in the way I work. I have experience working with adults and young people, helping with a wide range of issues. Therapy offered can be either short or long term at flexible times during the day and evening depending on the needs/requirements for each client.
01344 231642 View 01344 231642
Photo of Samantha louise Smyke, Psychotherapist in Deepcut, England
Samantha louise Smyke
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Woking GU21
There are many reasons that can bring us into therapy whether it might be current difficulties, long term struggles, illness or just a hope for change. I know how valuable it is to have a safe and confidential space where you can explore how you really feel and think about things. In this space it can help you to uncover unhealthy patterns and destructive behaviours with a view to bring about a change.
There are many reasons that can bring us into therapy whether it might be current difficulties, long term struggles, illness or just a hope for change. I know how valuable it is to have a safe and confidential space where you can explore how you really feel and think about things. In this space it can help you to uncover unhealthy patterns and destructive behaviours with a view to bring about a change.
01483 956887 View 01483 956887
Photo of Vivienne Freda Cracknell, Counsellor in Deepcut, England
Vivienne Freda Cracknell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
My main aim in life has and always will be to help people find peace and joy in their lives. This can be very difficult to source when life today is so challenging. Whether it is financial worries, loss of a loved one, disability, illness, family issues, bullying, work pressure, trauma, (amongst others) all can induce stress, depression and anxiety. Besides a wealth of life experience, I have a degree in Integrative relationship counselling, which enables me to work in a way to suit each individual and their issues. We will work together at your pace to find a healing path.
My main aim in life has and always will be to help people find peace and joy in their lives. This can be very difficult to source when life today is so challenging. Whether it is financial worries, loss of a loved one, disability, illness, family issues, bullying, work pressure, trauma, (amongst others) all can induce stress, depression and anxiety. Besides a wealth of life experience, I have a degree in Integrative relationship counselling, which enables me to work in a way to suit each individual and their issues. We will work together at your pace to find a healing path.
01483 924540 View 01483 924540
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.