Photo of Eve True- Therapy and Training, Counsellor in Grimsby, England
Eve True- Therapy and Training
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Grimsby DN32
My name is Eve, I am a fully qualified and experienced counsellor. I work with adults and young people (aged 11+). Approaching a counsellor may feel daunting and you may feel unsure of what to expect. There is no set formula for therapy; I work from an integrative approach meaning that I aim to offer each individual the space and tools that will fit for their own unique journey. Issues I work with include but are not limited to are: anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, family and marital problems, self-esteem, confidence, health concerns, OCD, trauma, self-harm, childhood experiences and well-being.
My name is Eve, I am a fully qualified and experienced counsellor. I work with adults and young people (aged 11+). Approaching a counsellor may feel daunting and you may feel unsure of what to expect. There is no set formula for therapy; I work from an integrative approach meaning that I aim to offer each individual the space and tools that will fit for their own unique journey. Issues I work with include but are not limited to are: anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, family and marital problems, self-esteem, confidence, health concerns, OCD, trauma, self-harm, childhood experiences and well-being.
01472 907192 View 01472 907192
Photo of Nikki Paterson, Counsellor in Grimsby, England
Nikki Paterson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Grimsby DN31
Is there something going on for you right now that you are not sure how to explain? Feel a sense of being lost, worried, sad, scared, angry or anxious but not sure why? Life can be difficult and counselling can help you explore what is going on. I believe we can work together and start to unpick issues and begin to understand them, improve communication, increase self-confidence and feel more empowered. I work with adults, couples and young people and love seeing a person walk away more relaxed, and in a better place. Counselling is all about you and finding your own answers.
Is there something going on for you right now that you are not sure how to explain? Feel a sense of being lost, worried, sad, scared, angry or anxious but not sure why? Life can be difficult and counselling can help you explore what is going on. I believe we can work together and start to unpick issues and begin to understand them, improve communication, increase self-confidence and feel more empowered. I work with adults, couples and young people and love seeing a person walk away more relaxed, and in a better place. Counselling is all about you and finding your own answers.
01472 517156 View 01472 517156
Photo of Jal Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Services ltd, Psychotherapist in Grimsby, England
Jal Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Services ltd
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Grimsby DN33
Hi, I'm Jess and I own Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Services Ltd in hope of offering a bespoke therapy service that meets the needs of the client and is flexible in adapting to your needs. I work by myself and offer online and limited in-person sessions. I deliver evidence based Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT) and EMDR. CBT looks at how we think and how we behave and how this impacts on how we feel. We make these links together and look to challenge and change how we think and what we do to positively change how we feel. I also deliver EMDR for PTSD, traumatic and complicated grief, anxiety, addictions and depression.
Hi, I'm Jess and I own Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Services Ltd in hope of offering a bespoke therapy service that meets the needs of the client and is flexible in adapting to your needs. I work by myself and offer online and limited in-person sessions. I deliver evidence based Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT) and EMDR. CBT looks at how we think and how we behave and how this impacts on how we feel. We make these links together and look to challenge and change how we think and what we do to positively change how we feel. I also deliver EMDR for PTSD, traumatic and complicated grief, anxiety, addictions and depression.
01472 404603 View 01472 404603
Photo of Fortis Therapy and Training , Psychotherapist in Grimsby, England
Fortis Therapy and Training
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Grimsby DN31
We provide the gold standard in counselling and psychotherapy. A multi award-winning practise, Fortis specialises in supporting all ages and all difficulties, providing a range of different therapeutic models to support you in the most effective way we can. We are passionate about supporting you with your mental health and emotional wellbeing. We do not have waiting lists at Fortis, we aim to see you as soon as possible and match your needs with the right therapist for you, to ensure you have the best experience possible.
We provide the gold standard in counselling and psychotherapy. A multi award-winning practise, Fortis specialises in supporting all ages and all difficulties, providing a range of different therapeutic models to support you in the most effective way we can. We are passionate about supporting you with your mental health and emotional wellbeing. We do not have waiting lists at Fortis, we aim to see you as soon as possible and match your needs with the right therapist for you, to ensure you have the best experience possible.
01472 517214 View 01472 517214
Photo of East Yorkshire Psychology, Psychologist in Grimsby, England
East Yorkshire Psychology
Psychologist, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Grimsby DN33
Dr Nikki McCloud is a Chartered Clinical Psychologist who works with a small group of associates providing specialist assessment and support for both mental and physical health difficulties.
Dr Nikki McCloud is a Chartered Clinical Psychologist who works with a small group of associates providing specialist assessment and support for both mental and physical health difficulties.
01964 770363 View 01964 770363

Online Therapists

Photo of Laura Dixon, Counsellor in Grimsby, England
Laura Dixon
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Manchester M16
My area of expertise is loss, and helping clients deal with it in all its forms, which includes bereavement, job loss, relationship breakdowns, loss of sense of self (which includes depression, anxiety, chronic illness, disability or medical / healthcare diagnosis) and all of the many other life changes that may happen outside of your control.
My area of expertise is loss, and helping clients deal with it in all its forms, which includes bereavement, job loss, relationship breakdowns, loss of sense of self (which includes depression, anxiety, chronic illness, disability or medical / healthcare diagnosis) and all of the many other life changes that may happen outside of your control.
0161 524 7467 View 0161 524 7467
Photo of Know Your Own Mind, Counsellor in Grimsby, England
Know Your Own Mind
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rushden NN10
You have taken the first step of looking for help. Have you been through a traumatic event, PTSD, loss, chronic pain, a new diagnosis, personality disorder, ADHD, or ASD to name a few, I will help you unpick what you have going on in your life, whether it has become overwhelming difficulties, struggles, thoughts or worries, I will be there to give you the space, confidentiality, compassion and time you need to support you on your journey to the best version of you, you can be. I will listen so you feel heard, and provide you with the tools to help where needed.
You have taken the first step of looking for help. Have you been through a traumatic event, PTSD, loss, chronic pain, a new diagnosis, personality disorder, ADHD, or ASD to name a few, I will help you unpick what you have going on in your life, whether it has become overwhelming difficulties, struggles, thoughts or worries, I will be there to give you the space, confidentiality, compassion and time you need to support you on your journey to the best version of you, you can be. I will listen so you feel heard, and provide you with the tools to help where needed.
01933 426194 View 01933 426194
Photo of Power Therapy UK, Psychotherapist in Grimsby, England
Power Therapy UK
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bolton BL2  (Online Only)
Working together with respect, trust, compassion and kindness we can navigate the path through the difficulties you face, recognising and understanding the feelings causing you pain and figuring out what changes can be made for you to enjoy the life you want in a happier more positive way.
Do you feel like a pressure cooker ready to explode? Do you feel lost and that every way you turn issues arise? Are you getting angry at people for no reason? Or feeling so down and desperate you don’t know which way to turn? It can be overwhelming sometimes even thinking about asking for help when as a culture we are supposed to be able to cope with everyday pressures. Life changing experiences and challenges such as loss, trauma or redundancy can cause unbelievable stresses on an already stressful life. It is all to easy to become stuck in a rut or to begin to struggle with daily life with all the competing pressures we face.
Working together with respect, trust, compassion and kindness we can navigate the path through the difficulties you face, recognising and understanding the feelings causing you pain and figuring out what changes can be made for you to enjoy the life you want in a happier more positive way.
Do you feel like a pressure cooker ready to explode? Do you feel lost and that every way you turn issues arise? Are you getting angry at people for no reason? Or feeling so down and desperate you don’t know which way to turn? It can be overwhelming sometimes even thinking about asking for help when as a culture we are supposed to be able to cope with everyday pressures. Life changing experiences and challenges such as loss, trauma or redundancy can cause unbelievable stresses on an already stressful life. It is all to easy to become stuck in a rut or to begin to struggle with daily life with all the competing pressures we face.
View
Photo of Theresa Dubicka-Keen, Counsellor in Grimsby, England
Theresa Dubicka-Keen
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sutton Coldfield B75
Emotional pain, guilt, shame and blame affects our ability to experience the fullness of life, so I offer support to resolve this.
Providing psychotherapy is my passion and I cover a wide range of issues namely- All Abuse, ADD / ADHD, Addictions, AIDS/HIV, Anger management, Anxiety, Asperger syndrome, Bereavement, Cancer, Child related issues, Chronic fatigue syndrome / ME, Cultural issues, Depression, Disability, Eating disorders, Health related issues, Identity issues, Infertility, Loss, Men's issues, Obsessions, OCD, Phobias, Post-traumatic stress, Pregnancy related issues, Redundancy, Relationships, Self esteem, Self-harm, Sex-related issues, Sexual identity, Sexuality, Spirituality, Stress, Trauma, Women's issues, Work related issues.
Emotional pain, guilt, shame and blame affects our ability to experience the fullness of life, so I offer support to resolve this.
Providing psychotherapy is my passion and I cover a wide range of issues namely- All Abuse, ADD / ADHD, Addictions, AIDS/HIV, Anger management, Anxiety, Asperger syndrome, Bereavement, Cancer, Child related issues, Chronic fatigue syndrome / ME, Cultural issues, Depression, Disability, Eating disorders, Health related issues, Identity issues, Infertility, Loss, Men's issues, Obsessions, OCD, Phobias, Post-traumatic stress, Pregnancy related issues, Redundancy, Relationships, Self esteem, Self-harm, Sex-related issues, Sexual identity, Sexuality, Spirituality, Stress, Trauma, Women's issues, Work related issues.
01827 214705 View 01827 214705
Photo of Joanne Brown, Counsellor in Grimsby, England
Joanne Brown
Counsellor, MBACP
Not Verified Not Verified
Worksop S81
I am an empathic and caring Counsellor working in a holistic and individual way, with you as the client at the centre of our work. Are you suffering with anxiety and depression having relationship issues, problems at work, struggling with illness, loss or bereavement or coming terms with difficult current and past life events. Are you completely overwhelmed or struggling with feelings of failure, despair, hopelessness and low self esteem and just don't know who to turn to or maybe you have resorted to addictive or harmful behaviours to cope. Come with me on your therapy journey and let me help you find a better way of being.
I am an empathic and caring Counsellor working in a holistic and individual way, with you as the client at the centre of our work. Are you suffering with anxiety and depression having relationship issues, problems at work, struggling with illness, loss or bereavement or coming terms with difficult current and past life events. Are you completely overwhelmed or struggling with feelings of failure, despair, hopelessness and low self esteem and just don't know who to turn to or maybe you have resorted to addictive or harmful behaviours to cope. Come with me on your therapy journey and let me help you find a better way of being.
01777 809425 View 01777 809425
Photo of Nicola Poole - Nature Therapist, Counsellor in Grimsby, England
Nicola Poole - Nature Therapist
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwich NR11
EXPLORE ~ EXPERIENCE ~ ENGAGE ~ EMPOWER How we feel can impact on our world significantly. Talking through thoughts and feelings at our own pace can be a helpful way to explore what may lie at the root of pain and difficulty. My endeavour as a PERSON CENTRED NATURE THERAPIST is to work alongside you in finding your way back to a space of balance and wellbeing within. PERSON CENTRED therapy is at the very core of how I work therapeutically and NATURE deepens and inspires that process. Combining these approaches can be a way to explore thoughts and feelings and facilitate healing.
EXPLORE ~ EXPERIENCE ~ ENGAGE ~ EMPOWER How we feel can impact on our world significantly. Talking through thoughts and feelings at our own pace can be a helpful way to explore what may lie at the root of pain and difficulty. My endeavour as a PERSON CENTRED NATURE THERAPIST is to work alongside you in finding your way back to a space of balance and wellbeing within. PERSON CENTRED therapy is at the very core of how I work therapeutically and NATURE deepens and inspires that process. Combining these approaches can be a way to explore thoughts and feelings and facilitate healing.
01263 808962 View 01263 808962
Photo of Dawn Morris H Dip P H Dip, Counsellor in Grimsby, England
Dawn Morris H Dip P H Dip
Counsellor, MHGI
Verified Verified
Lincoln LN6
I cover a range of areas including pain management looking at the emotional side.
Hello my name is Dawn, I understand that first contact and arranging a session and coming, takes a lot of strength, Many I have found is concerned about having to go into details of the concern they coming with or having to relive maybe a trauma. See therapy as painful. Therapy does not have to be painful, you do not have to go into details if did not wish to. Goals maybe to be able to look ahead to see there is a light, to feel heard, listened to, to be acknowledged. A place to feel safe and to look at all tools resources abilities already within to come away the the past and look to future which is preferred in a healthy way.
I cover a range of areas including pain management looking at the emotional side.
Hello my name is Dawn, I understand that first contact and arranging a session and coming, takes a lot of strength, Many I have found is concerned about having to go into details of the concern they coming with or having to relive maybe a trauma. See therapy as painful. Therapy does not have to be painful, you do not have to go into details if did not wish to. Goals maybe to be able to look ahead to see there is a light, to feel heard, listened to, to be acknowledged. A place to feel safe and to look at all tools resources abilities already within to come away the the past and look to future which is preferred in a healthy way.
01522 459251 View 01522 459251
Photo of Nadine Naughton, Counsellor in Grimsby, England
Nadine Naughton
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wakefield WF4
I work with a wide area including Anxiety, Low Mood, Depression, Self-harm, Suicidal Ideation, Stress, illness, Long term health issues, Terminal illness, Bereavement, Loss, Work related stresses, Sports professionals etc.
Hello I am Nadine, I have 14 years experience as a counsellor for children, young people and adults in Yorkshire. See my profile. I'm near Nostell Priory, junction 30/31 M62 and 38/39 M1. Wakefield & Huddersfield. I qualified in 2009 and I actively work with children, young people, adults, relationship counselling and family therapy. I have 14 years regular counselling experience and 12 years previous experience working with children's mental and emotional health service for Kirklees within Tier 2 and Tier 3 Ask CAMHS/ ChEWS - Northorpe Hall Services known now as Thriving Kirklees. I now only work in my own private practice.
I work with a wide area including Anxiety, Low Mood, Depression, Self-harm, Suicidal Ideation, Stress, illness, Long term health issues, Terminal illness, Bereavement, Loss, Work related stresses, Sports professionals etc.
Hello I am Nadine, I have 14 years experience as a counsellor for children, young people and adults in Yorkshire. See my profile. I'm near Nostell Priory, junction 30/31 M62 and 38/39 M1. Wakefield & Huddersfield. I qualified in 2009 and I actively work with children, young people, adults, relationship counselling and family therapy. I have 14 years regular counselling experience and 12 years previous experience working with children's mental and emotional health service for Kirklees within Tier 2 and Tier 3 Ask CAMHS/ ChEWS - Northorpe Hall Services known now as Thriving Kirklees. I now only work in my own private practice.
01924 938065 View 01924 938065
Photo of Bryn Higgott, Psychotherapist in Grimsby, England
Bryn Higgott
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Wellingborough NN8
I am currently involved in psychotherapy research at the University of Central Lancashire as to the use of hypnosis for relief of emotional and physical pain in breast cancer.
Everyone has a way of looking at the world, its events, and their place in it that is personal to them. Consequently, there is no one size fits all in therapeutic approach. Psychotherapy can be a powerful, life changing experience in the right hands. It focuses on understanding how you see the world and interpret the life you have, and want. Good mental health affects so many aspects of life. For example studies on the interaction between the mind, nervous system and the immune system illustrate that there is a connection between relieving stress and related immune processes.
I am currently involved in psychotherapy research at the University of Central Lancashire as to the use of hypnosis for relief of emotional and physical pain in breast cancer.
Everyone has a way of looking at the world, its events, and their place in it that is personal to them. Consequently, there is no one size fits all in therapeutic approach. Psychotherapy can be a powerful, life changing experience in the right hands. It focuses on understanding how you see the world and interpret the life you have, and want. Good mental health affects so many aspects of life. For example studies on the interaction between the mind, nervous system and the immune system illustrate that there is a connection between relieving stress and related immune processes.
01933 829074 View 01933 829074
Photo of Charlotte Sara Walters, Psychotherapist in Grimsby, England
Charlotte Sara Walters
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
King's Lynn PE33
I work with older children (12+) and adults. I have experience of working with stress, anxiety, chronic pain, depression, domestic abuse, relationships, sexuality, grief/loss, behavioural issues and addiction/alcoholism. I have also recently worked voluntarily for two charities counselling young people affected by domestic abuse, and with people in addiction recovery. I work with a person centred foundation, therefore sessions are led by the clients needs as an individual. We work together to find the best way forward. The therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance.
I work with older children (12+) and adults. I have experience of working with stress, anxiety, chronic pain, depression, domestic abuse, relationships, sexuality, grief/loss, behavioural issues and addiction/alcoholism. I have also recently worked voluntarily for two charities counselling young people affected by domestic abuse, and with people in addiction recovery. I work with a person centred foundation, therefore sessions are led by the clients needs as an individual. We work together to find the best way forward. The therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance.
020 3322 9513 View 020 3322 9513
Photo of Jo Burch Counselling and Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist in Grimsby, England
Jo Burch Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Derby DE22
I have a special interest in working holistically with the mind and body to help you cope with and, hopefully, overcome emotional and physical difficulties, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain and fatigue.
Hello and welcome, I'm Jo. You may have come here because you're struggling to cope with life's challenges. Perhaps you're feeling overwhelmed, lost or alone and you're finding it hard to deal with the difficult feelings. Many situations can bring us to a point where everything feels too much - for example, emotional and/or physical ill health, work stress, relationship difficulties, break-ups, bereavement, trauma and unresolved childhood issues. I offer psychotherapy and Havening Techniques to help you to explore what you need to resolve your difficulties and gain balance in your life and in your relationships.
I have a special interest in working holistically with the mind and body to help you cope with and, hopefully, overcome emotional and physical difficulties, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain and fatigue.
Hello and welcome, I'm Jo. You may have come here because you're struggling to cope with life's challenges. Perhaps you're feeling overwhelmed, lost or alone and you're finding it hard to deal with the difficult feelings. Many situations can bring us to a point where everything feels too much - for example, emotional and/or physical ill health, work stress, relationship difficulties, break-ups, bereavement, trauma and unresolved childhood issues. I offer psychotherapy and Havening Techniques to help you to explore what you need to resolve your difficulties and gain balance in your life and in your relationships.
01332 327435 View 01332 327435
Photo of EMDR and CBT Services, Psychotherapist in Grimsby, England
EMDR and CBT Services
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Bury Saint Edmunds IP31
EMDR is also very effective with General Anxiety, Panic attacks, Depression, Stress, Phobias, Sleep problems, Chronic pain, Body dysmorphic disorder, Medically unexplained symptoms, Addictions, Low self esteem, Performance anxiety and Attachment disorders.
I offer EMDR, CBT and Couples Counselling therapy and the aim is to help you to regain a sense of wellbeing and enjoyment in your life. During the initial assessment we will work together to understand your main problems, what is keeping you 'stuck' and then agree on an individualised treatment plan to help you move forward with clear treatment goals. CBT is an effective treatment that can help you in the here and now and EMDR is useful for getting to the root of the problem. I find that both work well, in different ways to bring about an improvement in emotional and physical health.
EMDR is also very effective with General Anxiety, Panic attacks, Depression, Stress, Phobias, Sleep problems, Chronic pain, Body dysmorphic disorder, Medically unexplained symptoms, Addictions, Low self esteem, Performance anxiety and Attachment disorders.
I offer EMDR, CBT and Couples Counselling therapy and the aim is to help you to regain a sense of wellbeing and enjoyment in your life. During the initial assessment we will work together to understand your main problems, what is keeping you 'stuck' and then agree on an individualised treatment plan to help you move forward with clear treatment goals. CBT is an effective treatment that can help you in the here and now and EMDR is useful for getting to the root of the problem. I find that both work well, in different ways to bring about an improvement in emotional and physical health.
01359 302253 View 01359 302253
Photo of Fairlie Winship, Counsellor in Grimsby, England
Fairlie Winship
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harleston IP20
Hi, I'm Fairlie. I'm here to support you to better cope with any problems or difficulties that you’re facing, and to offer ways to build self understanding and self compassion. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed; are struggling to cope; or are experiencing relationship difficulties, I can help you to move through this difficult time and feel better in life. Whether you wish to release emotional pain, process past traumas, or ease psychological discomfort, you are welcome to contact me. I can help you to find fresh perspective, develop positive coping skills and build your self esteem so you can feel better in life.
Hi, I'm Fairlie. I'm here to support you to better cope with any problems or difficulties that you’re facing, and to offer ways to build self understanding and self compassion. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed; are struggling to cope; or are experiencing relationship difficulties, I can help you to move through this difficult time and feel better in life. Whether you wish to release emotional pain, process past traumas, or ease psychological discomfort, you are welcome to contact me. I can help you to find fresh perspective, develop positive coping skills and build your self esteem so you can feel better in life.
01379 778352 View 01379 778352
Photo of Rebecca Rowlinson, Counsellor in Grimsby, England
Rebecca Rowlinson
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middlewich CW10
Hello.I am a friendly, open, nonjudgmental, empathetic ,understanding ,Person Centred Counsellor. I qualified from Derby University with a BS honours Degree. Having experience with Autism, Depression, Bereavement , Anxiety ,Long Term Illness, mental ill-health . Taking the first step is hard but arrange a meeting with me and asking questions will help you make an informed decision before committing to Counselling . I will provide a safe, calm space for you . . You can heal, resolve, accept and develop new understandings of your life . Finding yourself in the process.
Hello.I am a friendly, open, nonjudgmental, empathetic ,understanding ,Person Centred Counsellor. I qualified from Derby University with a BS honours Degree. Having experience with Autism, Depression, Bereavement , Anxiety ,Long Term Illness, mental ill-health . Taking the first step is hard but arrange a meeting with me and asking questions will help you make an informed decision before committing to Counselling . I will provide a safe, calm space for you . . You can heal, resolve, accept and develop new understandings of your life . Finding yourself in the process.
01643 802074 View 01643 802074
Photo of Friar Gate Counselling & Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist in Grimsby, England
Friar Gate Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Derby DE1
I am Miricia, an experienced, fully qualified BACP registered counsellor and psychotherapist. I have many years' experience in the mental health field along with formal training that provides me with a solid foundation to practice as an integrative counsellor. I have worked in private practise, businesses, charities, schools and have also featured on BBC Radio Two. In addition to my private practice I have experience in various mental health settings, having worked in the mental health field for the NHS in London, and as a counsellor for various employee assistance programmes and voluntary community counselling services.
I am Miricia, an experienced, fully qualified BACP registered counsellor and psychotherapist. I have many years' experience in the mental health field along with formal training that provides me with a solid foundation to practice as an integrative counsellor. I have worked in private practise, businesses, charities, schools and have also featured on BBC Radio Two. In addition to my private practice I have experience in various mental health settings, having worked in the mental health field for the NHS in London, and as a counsellor for various employee assistance programmes and voluntary community counselling services.
01332 985704 View 01332 985704

See more therapy options for Grimsby

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.