Photo of SJG Counselling Services, Counsellor in Farnham, England
SJG Counselling Services
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Farnham GU10
Not accepting new clients
Hi my name is Sammy and I am a qualified and accredited Integrative Counsellor and a registered member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and the ACC (Association for Christians in Counselling and Psychotherapy). I understand that life can be challenging and even overwhelming at times, however the fact that you are here shows that you have taken a huge step in taking back control of your life. Finding the right counsellor is essential to your therapeutic journey. Life can be tough, but with the right support, I know that you can overcome your challenges and reach your full potential.
Hi my name is Sammy and I am a qualified and accredited Integrative Counsellor and a registered member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and the ACC (Association for Christians in Counselling and Psychotherapy). I understand that life can be challenging and even overwhelming at times, however the fact that you are here shows that you have taken a huge step in taking back control of your life. Finding the right counsellor is essential to your therapeutic journey. Life can be tough, but with the right support, I know that you can overcome your challenges and reach your full potential.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Vivienne Freda Cracknell, Counsellor in Farnham, 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
Photo of Dianne Everitt, Psychologist in Farnham, England
Dianne Everitt
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guildford GU1  (Online Only)
I’m a Clinical Psychologist, working with high achievers who struggle with high functioning anxiety, self-confidence and self-esteem, burnout, stress, and relationship difficulties. If on the surface you look like you have it all together, but the silent voice of self-doubt plagues you, then we will likely work well together. I like to work with the heart of a matter, rather than treat symptoms at a surface level. I work with both adolescents and adults, and have over 13 years experience in mental health. I have a fantastic team of Psychologists working with me, and we also specialise in ADHD, ASD and ADHD assessments.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist, working with high achievers who struggle with high functioning anxiety, self-confidence and self-esteem, burnout, stress, and relationship difficulties. If on the surface you look like you have it all together, but the silent voice of self-doubt plagues you, then we will likely work well together. I like to work with the heart of a matter, rather than treat symptoms at a surface level. I work with both adolescents and adults, and have over 13 years experience in mental health. I have a fantastic team of Psychologists working with me, and we also specialise in ADHD, ASD and ADHD assessments.
01252 947363 View 01252 947363
Photo of Emmanuel Ampofo, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Emmanuel Ampofo
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hook RG27
I am an Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with the BABCP with 10 years experience of using CBT to treat various psychological disorders. Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts of horrific nature that makes you feel like a bad person? Or do you engage in excessive checks or intense fear of contamination hence the need to engage in certain rituals to feel safe and to keep others safe? If you struggle with any of the above as well as constantly re-living past trauma events and struggle with depression leading to isolation, then get in touch!
I am an Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with the BABCP with 10 years experience of using CBT to treat various psychological disorders. Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts of horrific nature that makes you feel like a bad person? Or do you engage in excessive checks or intense fear of contamination hence the need to engage in certain rituals to feel safe and to keep others safe? If you struggle with any of the above as well as constantly re-living past trauma events and struggle with depression leading to isolation, then get in touch!
01256 595299 View 01256 595299
Photo of The Giles Practice, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
The Giles Practice
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sherfield on Loddon RG27
The Giles Practice Is Committed To Helping You. We are a forward-thinking, progressive practice with genuine testimonials from satisfied clients. We have 5 star Google reviews with clients from all over the world. We have been instructed on recent catastrophic incidents such as the Grenfell Tower fire and the London Bridge/Borough Market terrorist attack. Each client is treated like an individual and every issue presented is important to us. We want our clients to be 100% happy, safe and secure when they use our service.
The Giles Practice Is Committed To Helping You. We are a forward-thinking, progressive practice with genuine testimonials from satisfied clients. We have 5 star Google reviews with clients from all over the world. We have been instructed on recent catastrophic incidents such as the Grenfell Tower fire and the London Bridge/Borough Market terrorist attack. Each client is treated like an individual and every issue presented is important to us. We want our clients to be 100% happy, safe and secure when they use our service.
01256 595034 View 01256 595034

Online Therapists

Photo of Pauline Wallace, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Pauline Wallace
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Gosport PO12
My experience includes working with people facing chronic illness, death and bereavement.
Hi I'm Pauline, thank you for reaching out as I understand that this can be difficult. Are you tired of feeling tired? Stressed or anxious? Struggling to concentrate, to sleep? Maybe you are worried about how you will cope? Angry or tearful? Do you feel anxious and don't know what the next step is? Have you lost your confidence, or identity? Do you fear you are going 'mad'? Being able to talk to someone outside your circle of family and friends can help. I won't tell you what to do but I will walk alongside you to help you understand how your experiences have impacted you.
My experience includes working with people facing chronic illness, death and bereavement.
Hi I'm Pauline, thank you for reaching out as I understand that this can be difficult. Are you tired of feeling tired? Stressed or anxious? Struggling to concentrate, to sleep? Maybe you are worried about how you will cope? Angry or tearful? Do you feel anxious and don't know what the next step is? Have you lost your confidence, or identity? Do you fear you are going 'mad'? Being able to talk to someone outside your circle of family and friends can help. I won't tell you what to do but I will walk alongside you to help you understand how your experiences have impacted you.
07479 277880 View 07479 277880
Photo of Dr Lucy Kozlowski, Psychologist in Farnham, England
Dr Lucy Kozlowski
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS35  (Online Only)
I am the Service Lead for Third Wave Psychologist, an online clinical psychology & counselling practice. My specialisms include long-term physical health conditions ( incl. long covid, pain, fatigue, IBS, diabetes, obesity & neurological conditions- stroke, MS, Parkinsons, tinnitus, hyperacusis, misophonia) & perinatal mental health (before, during & after birth, early years parenting). I also specialise in staff wellbeing (healthcare & non-healthcare staff) & common mental health issues (e.g. stress, low mood, anger, adjustment, anxiety, trauma, bereavement & grief & self-esteem/confidence issues).
I am the Service Lead for Third Wave Psychologist, an online clinical psychology & counselling practice. My specialisms include long-term physical health conditions ( incl. long covid, pain, fatigue, IBS, diabetes, obesity & neurological conditions- stroke, MS, Parkinsons, tinnitus, hyperacusis, misophonia) & perinatal mental health (before, during & after birth, early years parenting). I also specialise in staff wellbeing (healthcare & non-healthcare staff) & common mental health issues (e.g. stress, low mood, anger, adjustment, anxiety, trauma, bereavement & grief & self-esteem/confidence issues).
0117 456 2479 View 0117 456 2479
Photo of Dr Hubert Fanka, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Dr Hubert Fanka
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Southampton SO16
I have had in depth training at Master and Doctoral levels in different psychological modalities: PG Diploma in Cognitive therapy for severe and enduring Mental illness, Anxiety and depression, MSC In mental Health and a Doctorate in Clinical Practice at the University of Southampton (2008-2021) I am intensively trained in DBT, EMDR, EMDR, ACT and CFT.
Sensation of being stuck, depressed, worried, struggling to cope with your feelings, mood changes, trauma memories, hearing distressing voices, suicidal thoughts and urges, adjustment difficulties, addiction, being different and interpersonal difficulties, and willing to move forward and find new ways of coping effectively, “YES i can help". In our sessions, we will use an integrative approach, a mixture Cognitive, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, (DBT CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, (EMDR), Compassionate Focused Therapy, (CFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, (ACT) depending on your individual needs.
I have had in depth training at Master and Doctoral levels in different psychological modalities: PG Diploma in Cognitive therapy for severe and enduring Mental illness, Anxiety and depression, MSC In mental Health and a Doctorate in Clinical Practice at the University of Southampton (2008-2021) I am intensively trained in DBT, EMDR, EMDR, ACT and CFT.
Sensation of being stuck, depressed, worried, struggling to cope with your feelings, mood changes, trauma memories, hearing distressing voices, suicidal thoughts and urges, adjustment difficulties, addiction, being different and interpersonal difficulties, and willing to move forward and find new ways of coping effectively, “YES i can help". In our sessions, we will use an integrative approach, a mixture Cognitive, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, (DBT CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, (EMDR), Compassionate Focused Therapy, (CFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, (ACT) depending on your individual needs.
023 9431 1717 View 023 9431 1717
Photo of Anna Honeysett, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Anna Honeysett
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashford TN24
I have a history working with addiction and eating disorders however I work with a range of issues from anxiety, depression, relationships, stress, work difficulties, chronic illness, health anxiety and various traumas.
Hello. Firstly I would like to say well done for starting the process of asking for help, it takes great courage to make that step towards change. We all have difficulties in life and sometimes we need to go somewhere outside our family and friends and to work through issues with someone impartial. I offer a safe confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours in the hope that you will be able to live your life more fully. Counselling is not a magic wand but in my experience it can give you insight into who you really are and promote personal freedom.
I have a history working with addiction and eating disorders however I work with a range of issues from anxiety, depression, relationships, stress, work difficulties, chronic illness, health anxiety and various traumas.
Hello. Firstly I would like to say well done for starting the process of asking for help, it takes great courage to make that step towards change. We all have difficulties in life and sometimes we need to go somewhere outside our family and friends and to work through issues with someone impartial. I offer a safe confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours in the hope that you will be able to live your life more fully. Counselling is not a magic wand but in my experience it can give you insight into who you really are and promote personal freedom.
01233 542283 View 01233 542283
Photo of Andrew Peter Murray, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Andrew Peter Murray
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Birmingham B33
You have made it this far because you have realised that this issue is now causing you emotional or psychological pain.  You owe it to yourself to take the next step and go and reach out for help whether it be with myself or another therapist.  Don't let yourself down any longer,  I wish you well and know from my own experience a little more awareness can create in you the healing you ache for. I will provide a unique tailored therapy that is yours alone.
You have made it this far because you have realised that this issue is now causing you emotional or psychological pain.  You owe it to yourself to take the next step and go and reach out for help whether it be with myself or another therapist.  Don't let yourself down any longer,  I wish you well and know from my own experience a little more awareness can create in you the healing you ache for. I will provide a unique tailored therapy that is yours alone.
0121 726 4750 View 0121 726 4750
Photo of Rachel Bates, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Rachel Bates
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Crawley RH10
As an integrative psychotherapist I specialise in the treatment of complex mental illness that may be attributed to childhood sexual abuse, physical/emotional/mental abuse experienced during childhood or early adulthood, unaddressed grief and/or complicated trauma.
Life today seems to be overloaded by a variety of stress in many spheres of existence. What should be enjoyable and fulfilling sometimes turns out to be the very cause of suffering. In the midst of the busy-ness of life, we do not take the time to address this suffering and instead criticise and blame ourselves or others. This could potentially leave us feeling confused and ashamed. Shame does not heal the pain of suffering. Every human being has a need to be understood, accepted and validated because the human brain is wired to love and be loved.
As an integrative psychotherapist I specialise in the treatment of complex mental illness that may be attributed to childhood sexual abuse, physical/emotional/mental abuse experienced during childhood or early adulthood, unaddressed grief and/or complicated trauma.
Life today seems to be overloaded by a variety of stress in many spheres of existence. What should be enjoyable and fulfilling sometimes turns out to be the very cause of suffering. In the midst of the busy-ness of life, we do not take the time to address this suffering and instead criticise and blame ourselves or others. This could potentially leave us feeling confused and ashamed. Shame does not heal the pain of suffering. Every human being has a need to be understood, accepted and validated because the human brain is wired to love and be loved.
01293 301836 View 01293 301836
Photo of Amy Cumber, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Amy Cumber
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Maidstone ME17
By looking at your life together, we can address experiences & pain to help you move forwards.
Life can evoke a variety of emotions and struggles. I work with individuals and couples in Kent, London, Sussex and across the UK remotely. I care passionately about the needs of my clients to empower you to move forwards in your life wherever you path is currently at. Life is sometimes full of difficulties and uncertainties we can feel overwhelmed by loss, trauma, body image, addictions, relationship issues and problems in our workplace or home life to name a few. I work in a non-judgmental supportive manner helping you to explore & understand your thoughts & emotions. I I have some concession rates available on a sliding scale.
By looking at your life together, we can address experiences & pain to help you move forwards.
Life can evoke a variety of emotions and struggles. I work with individuals and couples in Kent, London, Sussex and across the UK remotely. I care passionately about the needs of my clients to empower you to move forwards in your life wherever you path is currently at. Life is sometimes full of difficulties and uncertainties we can feel overwhelmed by loss, trauma, body image, addictions, relationship issues and problems in our workplace or home life to name a few. I work in a non-judgmental supportive manner helping you to explore & understand your thoughts & emotions. I I have some concession rates available on a sliding scale.
01732 444051 x075989 View 01732 444051 x075989
Photo of Soulworks Counselling Limited, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Soulworks Counselling Limited
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Slough SL1
My work facilitates & enables you to understand yourself, to find out what is causing your pain and to support you while positive change happens.
Hello, my name is Lynn Turner. I have over 28 years counselling, therapy and life coaching experience, with expertise in addiction, codependency, complex and abusive relationships (including being in a relationship with a sociopath, narcissist, or someone with a mental health issue or a personality disorder). I specialise in, and have a Diploma in 'Dealing with Narcissism'. I provide a non-judgemental, safe, confidential and professional space for you to talk about, and work through, your problems. I believe the counselling relationship needs to be authentic, honest and safe in order for healthy change to happen.
My work facilitates & enables you to understand yourself, to find out what is causing your pain and to support you while positive change happens.
Hello, my name is Lynn Turner. I have over 28 years counselling, therapy and life coaching experience, with expertise in addiction, codependency, complex and abusive relationships (including being in a relationship with a sociopath, narcissist, or someone with a mental health issue or a personality disorder). I specialise in, and have a Diploma in 'Dealing with Narcissism'. I provide a non-judgemental, safe, confidential and professional space for you to talk about, and work through, your problems. I believe the counselling relationship needs to be authentic, honest and safe in order for healthy change to happen.
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Photo of Dawn Woosley, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Dawn Woosley
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leighton Buzzard LU7
Hi, Over the past 14 years,i and my practice has helped  individuals and couples with issues including: trauma, bereavement, generalized anxiety, depression, low self esteem, OCD, problem drinking and drug use, personality disorder, anger management, work-related stress, as well as many couples seeking help with relationship breakdowns, difficulties and changes. We can help you through difficult experiences you are having; develop skills and self confidence; adjust to changed circumstances; think through tough decisions; understand yourself better; deal with problem thoughts, behavior or relationships; face past painful issues
Hi, Over the past 14 years,i and my practice has helped  individuals and couples with issues including: trauma, bereavement, generalized anxiety, depression, low self esteem, OCD, problem drinking and drug use, personality disorder, anger management, work-related stress, as well as many couples seeking help with relationship breakdowns, difficulties and changes. We can help you through difficult experiences you are having; develop skills and self confidence; adjust to changed circumstances; think through tough decisions; understand yourself better; deal with problem thoughts, behavior or relationships; face past painful issues
01525 309853 View 01525 309853
Photo of All in Dew Time Therapy & Supervisory Services, Counsellor in Farnham, England
All in Dew Time Therapy & Supervisory Services
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Birmingham B36
Counselling room in Castle Bromwich, Solihull, Birmingham and online UK. Hello, I warmly welcome you to my page for details of my trauma informed services. There can be times in life where things can feel overwhelming and challenging and it may be hard to reach out for the help and support that you deserve and that feels right for you. Reaching out for help and support is always a sign of strength and never weakness. During these challenging times, I am offering low cost counselling and psychotherapy which can be made available immediately for you through telephone, and online with me, through Teams, Zoom, Skype and WhatsApp.
Counselling room in Castle Bromwich, Solihull, Birmingham and online UK. Hello, I warmly welcome you to my page for details of my trauma informed services. There can be times in life where things can feel overwhelming and challenging and it may be hard to reach out for the help and support that you deserve and that feels right for you. Reaching out for help and support is always a sign of strength and never weakness. During these challenging times, I am offering low cost counselling and psychotherapy which can be made available immediately for you through telephone, and online with me, through Teams, Zoom, Skype and WhatsApp.
01675 620925 View 01675 620925
Photo of Kingsley Boateng, Counsellor in Farnham, England
Kingsley Boateng
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sevenoaks TN15
I am a fully accredited and qualified Counsellor and a Hypnotherapist. With these two skills, clients can choose what they feel works best for them, and my evaluations of every session involve them. Are you struggling with Loss of any kind? Is anxiety your primary issue affecting your everyday life? Or are you struggling to accept or come to terms with your sexuality? Marking Therapy is a safe space for you—a space where you can be yourself without holding back. I can also support you in dealing with all forms of addiction, body image/ confidence, smoke cessation and many more.
I am a fully accredited and qualified Counsellor and a Hypnotherapist. With these two skills, clients can choose what they feel works best for them, and my evaluations of every session involve them. Are you struggling with Loss of any kind? Is anxiety your primary issue affecting your everyday life? Or are you struggling to accept or come to terms with your sexuality? Marking Therapy is a safe space for you—a space where you can be yourself without holding back. I can also support you in dealing with all forms of addiction, body image/ confidence, smoke cessation and many more.
0191 743 9511 View 0191 743 9511
Photo of Click Therapies, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Click Therapies
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
London SE7
Click Therapies are a small team of UK accredited therapists, nurses and doctors. We are a dedicated online psychological wellbeing service that meets the challenges of the 21st century. We work collaboratively with all our clients to offer a personalised therapy experience to achieve the best recovery outcomes for you. Our service is flexible to meet your needs needs. You can access therapy, anytime, anywhere at your convenience . We deliver evidence based treatments in line with National Guidelines and World Health Organisation. Why not connect with us for your FREE 15min consultation, you have nothing to lose...
Click Therapies are a small team of UK accredited therapists, nurses and doctors. We are a dedicated online psychological wellbeing service that meets the challenges of the 21st century. We work collaboratively with all our clients to offer a personalised therapy experience to achieve the best recovery outcomes for you. Our service is flexible to meet your needs needs. You can access therapy, anytime, anywhere at your convenience . We deliver evidence based treatments in line with National Guidelines and World Health Organisation. Why not connect with us for your FREE 15min consultation, you have nothing to lose...
0117 456 2766 View 0117 456 2766
Photo of CBT, EMDR, Psychological Coach & Mental Health, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
CBT, EMDR, Psychological Coach & Mental Health
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
London SE24
Hey, I am Brenda, a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, EMDR Therapist and a Registered Psychiatric Nurse and an award winner of the "Prestigious Mary Seacole Award". I offer 1:1 CBT therapy to help you to rediscover your self, to become "un-stuck", move forward and rebuild your life from past painful experiences. I use my professional expertise through a variety of evidence based techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Coaching theories, plus my lived experiences of trauma, confidence and assertiveness challenges to help you rediscover your true self and reclaim your life. I also support with goal setting, as essential tool.
Hey, I am Brenda, a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, EMDR Therapist and a Registered Psychiatric Nurse and an award winner of the "Prestigious Mary Seacole Award". I offer 1:1 CBT therapy to help you to rediscover your self, to become "un-stuck", move forward and rebuild your life from past painful experiences. I use my professional expertise through a variety of evidence based techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Coaching theories, plus my lived experiences of trauma, confidence and assertiveness challenges to help you rediscover your true self and reclaim your life. I also support with goal setting, as essential tool.
020 8106 5762 View 020 8106 5762
Photo of Lana Krovda, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Lana Krovda
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London W7
I offer a variety of approaches and can tailor your therapy to what works best for you. My style is trauma-informed. This matters if you have experienced abuse or neglect in childhood and now live with the consequences of that, or had traumatic experiences later in life. We can work with a particular issue for 8-10 counselling sessions. Longer exploration is an option to go deeper into your material and make better sense of your life experiences. Of course this commitment is not cheap, but it’s an investment in yourself.
I offer a variety of approaches and can tailor your therapy to what works best for you. My style is trauma-informed. This matters if you have experienced abuse or neglect in childhood and now live with the consequences of that, or had traumatic experiences later in life. We can work with a particular issue for 8-10 counselling sessions. Longer exploration is an option to go deeper into your material and make better sense of your life experiences. Of course this commitment is not cheap, but it’s an investment in yourself.
020 8138 8422 View 020 8138 8422
Photo of Tim Harvard Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist in Farnham, England
Tim Harvard Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
London W5
Hi, I hope your search for a therapist is going well. It can be a difficult process, but it is important to find a therapist who feels right for you. The relationship with your therapist is, on average, more helpful than their training and experience. Person-centred therapy is a relationship. It is not dependent on medical diagnoses, yet can help with all conditions. It is as effective as other leading therapies, but uniquely it puts the client at the centre of the process. There is no 'you should do this'. The questions, and the answers, will come from within during our conversations.
Hi, I hope your search for a therapist is going well. It can be a difficult process, but it is important to find a therapist who feels right for you. The relationship with your therapist is, on average, more helpful than their training and experience. Person-centred therapy is a relationship. It is not dependent on medical diagnoses, yet can help with all conditions. It is as effective as other leading therapies, but uniquely it puts the client at the centre of the process. There is no 'you should do this'. The questions, and the answers, will come from within during our conversations.
01736 803971 View 01736 803971

See more therapy options for Farnham


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.