Chronic Pain Counselling in Birmingham

Photo of Gemma Jones, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Gemma Jones
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
2 Endorsed
I specialise in supporting people who are experiencing psychological difficulties due to a physical health problem, perhaps from illness, injury, a medical problem or a long -term condition.
My role can involve assisting clients with a variety of therapeutic tasks, depending upon individual needs. Therapy can include processing difficult thoughts and feelings, coming to terms with what is happening, clarifying choices and values, reconnecting with one's body and/or personhood and developing skills in emotional regulation and self-management.
I specialise in supporting people who are experiencing psychological difficulties due to a physical health problem, perhaps from illness, injury, a medical problem or a long -term condition.
My role can involve assisting clients with a variety of therapeutic tasks, depending upon individual needs. Therapy can include processing difficult thoughts and feelings, coming to terms with what is happening, clarifying choices and values, reconnecting with one's body and/or personhood and developing skills in emotional regulation and self-management.
0121 817 7916 View 0121 817 7916
Photo of Dr Ali Khatibi, Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Dr Ali Khatibi
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
1 Endorsed
You may be weighed down by anxiety, chronic pain, or grieving a loss or separation.
I offer an integrated approach, blending CBT, psychodynamic and person-centered counseling. With my PhD in Psychology, extensive clinical experience in chronic conditions, and evidence based methods, I provide inclusive, empathetic care for diverse clients, helping them find resilience, hope, and lasting healing. I welcome Farsi and English speaking clients
You may be weighed down by anxiety, chronic pain, or grieving a loss or separation.
I offer an integrated approach, blending CBT, psychodynamic and person-centered counseling. With my PhD in Psychology, extensive clinical experience in chronic conditions, and evidence based methods, I provide inclusive, empathetic care for diverse clients, helping them find resilience, hope, and lasting healing. I welcome Farsi and English speaking clients
0121 312 4559 View 0121 312 4559
Photo of Rajnish Kaur Virk
Rajnish Kaur Virk
Verified Verified
Are you struggling with anxiety, health concerns depression , or stress in these challenging times? If you're looking for a way to better manage your mental health and overall wellbeing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) might be the solution you need. I'm Rajnish Virk, an experienced CBT therapist with over 15 years of experience in the NHS, and I'm here to help you navigate through these difficult emotions. “Not quite ready for one-on-one therapy, or looking for a more cost-effective option? Discover my exclusive 4-week anxiety management program.
Are you struggling with anxiety, health concerns depression , or stress in these challenging times? If you're looking for a way to better manage your mental health and overall wellbeing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) might be the solution you need. I'm Rajnish Virk, an experienced CBT therapist with over 15 years of experience in the NHS, and I'm here to help you navigate through these difficult emotions. “Not quite ready for one-on-one therapy, or looking for a more cost-effective option? Discover my exclusive 4-week anxiety management program.
0121 809 6135 View 0121 809 6135
Photo of Liara Saffir - FND & Burnout Specialist with Liara Saffir, MA
FND & Burnout Specialist with Liara Saffir
Verified Verified
Serves Area
The nervous system becomes exhausted or shocked causing symptoms from extreme anxiety & inability to think, unexplained pain, through to tremors, seizures, fatigue and paralysis.
I have a Masters Degree in Psychotherapy & intensively trained with FND Australia to understand & support Functional Neurological Disorder. Over the past 8 years I have assisted over 35 clients with FND, several now are completely free of this life altering condition. I supply expertise and support, and you continue Body Talk at home to speed up repair.
The nervous system becomes exhausted or shocked causing symptoms from extreme anxiety & inability to think, unexplained pain, through to tremors, seizures, fatigue and paralysis.
I have a Masters Degree in Psychotherapy & intensively trained with FND Australia to understand & support Functional Neurological Disorder. Over the past 8 years I have assisted over 35 clients with FND, several now are completely free of this life altering condition. I supply expertise and support, and you continue Body Talk at home to speed up repair.
07830 840798 View 07830 840798
Photo of Liz Hancock, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Liz Hancock
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
Stress can contribute to other issues of chronic pain or illness like Diabetes, ME/CFS or Fibromyalgia..
Most people believe that they have to live with chronic pain and illness forever. This is not the case. Great improvements and often total elimination can be accomplished. I am also specifically trained in exhaustive conditions (M.E, CFS, Fibromyalgia etc). and also Diabetes. Some insider knowledge was also gained from my own total recovery from pain!
Stress can contribute to other issues of chronic pain or illness like Diabetes, ME/CFS or Fibromyalgia..
Most people believe that they have to live with chronic pain and illness forever. This is not the case. Great improvements and often total elimination can be accomplished. I am also specifically trained in exhaustive conditions (M.E, CFS, Fibromyalgia etc). and also Diabetes. Some insider knowledge was also gained from my own total recovery from pain!
01522 246098 View 01522 246098
Photo of Dr Caroline Marlow, Psychologist, PhD, AFBPSsS
Dr Caroline Marlow
Psychologist, PhD, AFBPSsS
Serves Area
If sport or exercise is important to you, having an injury or chronic pain can be tough - it can affect how you feel about yourself, your fitness and mental health, and your friendships.
You know your pain best, but have questions and concerns. Together we; make sense of it, become clearer of its causes, and reduce your pain-related worries. This will give you confidence; in what to do to recover better, to move more/better; and to think in more helpful ways. I can also work with your medic, physio, etc.
If sport or exercise is important to you, having an injury or chronic pain can be tough - it can affect how you feel about yourself, your fitness and mental health, and your friendships.
You know your pain best, but have questions and concerns. Together we; make sense of it, become clearer of its causes, and reduce your pain-related worries. This will give you confidence; in what to do to recover better, to move more/better; and to think in more helpful ways. I can also work with your medic, physio, etc.
01323 921071 View 01323 921071
Photo of Abi Jordan, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Abi Jordan
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
No question is too big or small to bring to therapy. Perhaps you have a sense that something in your life isn’t feeling quite right and would like to make sense of this, or perhaps you are struggling with issues within relationships with loved ones and would like for these to improve. It may be that you have been struggling with low mood, depression or anxiety and have taken the first step of seeking support. As a Systemic Psychotherapist, I work with Families, Couples and Individuals. I work in a way which is collaborative, recognising and drawing upon people’s strengths.
No question is too big or small to bring to therapy. Perhaps you have a sense that something in your life isn’t feeling quite right and would like to make sense of this, or perhaps you are struggling with issues within relationships with loved ones and would like for these to improve. It may be that you have been struggling with low mood, depression or anxiety and have taken the first step of seeking support. As a Systemic Psychotherapist, I work with Families, Couples and Individuals. I work in a way which is collaborative, recognising and drawing upon people’s strengths.
0121 803 9868 View 0121 803 9868
Photo of Andrew Peter Murray, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Andrew Peter Murray
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
You have made it this far because you have realised that this issue is now causing you emotional or psychological pain.
The help i provide is based around absolute acceptance of your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. I cannot judge you, we are human after all and far from perfect. You will get my knowledge but more importantly my desire to support you until you become the person you want to feel inside
You have made it this far because you have realised that this issue is now causing you emotional or psychological pain.
The help i provide is based around absolute acceptance of your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. I cannot judge you, we are human after all and far from perfect. You will get my knowledge but more importantly my desire to support you until you become the person you want to feel inside
0121 726 4750 View 0121 726 4750
Photo of Jo Ward-Mackie, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Jo Ward-Mackie
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Life can be very fast paced, hectic and often we are not taught how to cope with any stresses that may arise. Over my time working in mental health, I have worked within many specialist services including outpatient services, addiction therapy programmes, general psychiatry in IAPT services and on psychiatric wards. This vast amount of experience over 11 years, has enabled me to develop a passion to help others feel empowered , to overcome lifes challenges and to learn how to take better care of themselves in the process.
Life can be very fast paced, hectic and often we are not taught how to cope with any stresses that may arise. Over my time working in mental health, I have worked within many specialist services including outpatient services, addiction therapy programmes, general psychiatry in IAPT services and on psychiatric wards. This vast amount of experience over 11 years, has enabled me to develop a passion to help others feel empowered , to overcome lifes challenges and to learn how to take better care of themselves in the process.
0121 661 4346 View 0121 661 4346
Photo of Joe Mimnagh, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Joe Mimnagh
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
I entered the world of psychotherapy so I could manage and eventually overcome the painful emotions and thoughts that I had experienced. If this is the case for you, then psychotherapy can help you explore uncomfortable feelings that have held you back from living life to the full. Life often throws the unexpected at us, be it through relationships, either personal or professional, we sometimes find it difficult to cope alone and need the support to help us through this difficult time.
I entered the world of psychotherapy so I could manage and eventually overcome the painful emotions and thoughts that I had experienced. If this is the case for you, then psychotherapy can help you explore uncomfortable feelings that have held you back from living life to the full. Life often throws the unexpected at us, be it through relationships, either personal or professional, we sometimes find it difficult to cope alone and need the support to help us through this difficult time.
0121 728 6469 View 0121 728 6469
Photo of Elizabeth Doggart - Elizabeth Doggart Associates Ltd, Psychotherapist, PsychD, MBABCP
Elizabeth Doggart Associates Ltd
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MBABCP
EDA Associates are a team of highly experienced Counsellors and Psychotherapists providing a range of therapies to help with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Low Self Esteem and all Trauma based issues including PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Our therapists are qualified in CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desenistisation and Reprocessing) and Integrative Counselling. We work with Adults, Children and Adolescents. We see clients who self refer, as well as those who may have insurance such as BUPA or Aviva. We are always happy to discuss your counselling needs prior to your making an appointment.
EDA Associates are a team of highly experienced Counsellors and Psychotherapists providing a range of therapies to help with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Low Self Esteem and all Trauma based issues including PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Our therapists are qualified in CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desenistisation and Reprocessing) and Integrative Counselling. We work with Adults, Children and Adolescents. We see clients who self refer, as well as those who may have insurance such as BUPA or Aviva. We are always happy to discuss your counselling needs prior to your making an appointment.
0121 285 7990 View 0121 285 7990
Photo of Alexandra Cojocaru, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Alexandra Cojocaru
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
I am a qualified integrative psychotherapist (UKCP, BACP) working in private practice and the NHS. My approach is informed by the relational psychoanalytic, humanistic and cognitive behavioural traditions, with a sharper focus on developmental theory, infant research, somatic therapies, Gestalt and archetypal psychology. Drawing from different psychotherapeutic modalities, I shape our work together in a way that best supports your personal process.
I am a qualified integrative psychotherapist (UKCP, BACP) working in private practice and the NHS. My approach is informed by the relational psychoanalytic, humanistic and cognitive behavioural traditions, with a sharper focus on developmental theory, infant research, somatic therapies, Gestalt and archetypal psychology. Drawing from different psychotherapeutic modalities, I shape our work together in a way that best supports your personal process.
0121 816 1247 View 0121 816 1247
Photo of Hamed Rehman - Hamed Rehman CBT Ltd, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Hamed Rehman CBT Ltd
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
I am an experienced CBT and EMDR therapist with 8 plus years of experience in both private practise and NHS. I work with a range of disorders using CBT techniques, including PTSD (complex also), Depression, Anxiety disorders such as OCD Social Anxiety, Health Anxiety, Worry and Specific Phobias. Additionally I have a special interest in working with people from BAME communities, to provide culturally sensitive therapy and overcome the stigma in the communities in regards to mental health.
I am an experienced CBT and EMDR therapist with 8 plus years of experience in both private practise and NHS. I work with a range of disorders using CBT techniques, including PTSD (complex also), Depression, Anxiety disorders such as OCD Social Anxiety, Health Anxiety, Worry and Specific Phobias. Additionally I have a special interest in working with people from BAME communities, to provide culturally sensitive therapy and overcome the stigma in the communities in regards to mental health.
01922 927022 View 01922 927022
Photo of Monroope Phull, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Monroope Phull
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
With over 15 years experience working and studying in mental health, I am passionate about supporting individuals through their unique challenges in a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment. I believe that every person has the potential for growth and healing, and I am here to walk alongside you on that journey. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, recognizing that each individual’s story is unique. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or challenges related to long-term health conditions, I am committed to helping you feel heard, valued, and supported.
With over 15 years experience working and studying in mental health, I am passionate about supporting individuals through their unique challenges in a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment. I believe that every person has the potential for growth and healing, and I am here to walk alongside you on that journey. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, recognizing that each individual’s story is unique. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or challenges related to long-term health conditions, I am committed to helping you feel heard, valued, and supported.
0121 661 3706 View 0121 661 3706
Photo of Alison Rolfe, Psychotherapist, PhD
Alison Rolfe
Psychotherapist, PhD
This takes courage since it involves uncovering emotional pain, but this forms the starting point for change in the self.
I am a very experienced psychotherapist, having worked in the therapeutic field for many years. My specialism is in Jungian analytical psychotherapy. I work with clients 1-3 times per week, helping clients to work through unconscious blocks to change, and to become more authentically themselves. I also offer supervision to counsellors and psychotherapists.
This takes courage since it involves uncovering emotional pain, but this forms the starting point for change in the self.
I am a very experienced psychotherapist, having worked in the therapeutic field for many years. My specialism is in Jungian analytical psychotherapy. I work with clients 1-3 times per week, helping clients to work through unconscious blocks to change, and to become more authentically themselves. I also offer supervision to counsellors and psychotherapists.
0121 661 5876 View 0121 661 5876
Photo of Hamed Rehman - Mynd Care Psychotherapies Limited, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Mynd Care Psychotherapies Limited
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
Mynd Care Psychotherapies offers individualised, goal orientated Psychotherapy services such as counselling, couple's therapy for depression, CBT and EMDR. We work with all anxiety disorders, PTSD and depression. We have a diverse group of staff that can cater for people from all diverse backgrounds. We particularly encourage you to come forward if you are seeking therapy that is culturally and religiously sensitive, as this is an area of expertise and experience with the staff at our service. We offer therapy un numerous languages!
Mynd Care Psychotherapies offers individualised, goal orientated Psychotherapy services such as counselling, couple's therapy for depression, CBT and EMDR. We work with all anxiety disorders, PTSD and depression. We have a diverse group of staff that can cater for people from all diverse backgrounds. We particularly encourage you to come forward if you are seeking therapy that is culturally and religiously sensitive, as this is an area of expertise and experience with the staff at our service. We offer therapy un numerous languages!
0121 387 6409 View 0121 387 6409
Photo of Christine Gault, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Christine Gault
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Online Only
Do suffer with chronic ill health, fatigue, fibromyalgia or other unexplained disease?
My work is unique as I am a highly sensitive person and use a variety of psychotherapeutic, evidence based methods to develop an individual therapy plan to meet your situation. Having suffered from Fibromaylagia for many years I understand the impact unexplained illness has on you, family and friends. Hence, I use body/mind approaches for pain and fatigue.
Do suffer with chronic ill health, fatigue, fibromyalgia or other unexplained disease?
My work is unique as I am a highly sensitive person and use a variety of psychotherapeutic, evidence based methods to develop an individual therapy plan to meet your situation. Having suffered from Fibromaylagia for many years I understand the impact unexplained illness has on you, family and friends. Hence, I use body/mind approaches for pain and fatigue.
01727 227317 View 01727 227317
Photo of Adrian Anderson, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Adrian Anderson
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
I help one individual at a time, I help couples and men cope with the symptoms of depression and anxiety, the pressure of undigested trauma, and the weight of always being “the strong one.” With 15 years’ experience across the NHS, Relate, and corporate settings, I’m trained to work with depression, all anxiety disorders, PTSD, body dysmorphia, and eating disorders. I offer counselling, coaching, and CBT to support individuals navigating these challenges. If you’re ready for support that truly sees you, I’m here to walk with you.
I help one individual at a time, I help couples and men cope with the symptoms of depression and anxiety, the pressure of undigested trauma, and the weight of always being “the strong one.” With 15 years’ experience across the NHS, Relate, and corporate settings, I’m trained to work with depression, all anxiety disorders, PTSD, body dysmorphia, and eating disorders. I offer counselling, coaching, and CBT to support individuals navigating these challenges. If you’re ready for support that truly sees you, I’m here to walk with you.
01675 622930 View 01675 622930
Photo of Kat Wawer, Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Kat Wawer
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
I have been providing therapy to clients who have a wide range of life issues and problems for over 25 years. I work with individuals and couples from various social and cultural backgrounds. My areas of interest among others are depression and anxiety disorders, self-esteem, traumas, chronic health and relationship difficulties. I also offer vitality coaching sessions focusing on introducing positive changes in the areas of stress management, nutrition/weight, sleep and exercise. We will explore what is truly important to you and motivates you to overcome obstacles, create an action plan and go on a journey together.
I have been providing therapy to clients who have a wide range of life issues and problems for over 25 years. I work with individuals and couples from various social and cultural backgrounds. My areas of interest among others are depression and anxiety disorders, self-esteem, traumas, chronic health and relationship difficulties. I also offer vitality coaching sessions focusing on introducing positive changes in the areas of stress management, nutrition/weight, sleep and exercise. We will explore what is truly important to you and motivates you to overcome obstacles, create an action plan and go on a journey together.
0121 752 9081 View 0121 752 9081
Photo of Dr Joanna Cobley, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Joanna Cobley
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
I understand that starting therapy and opening up to a therapist can feel daunting. However, I also believe that therapy can be transformative, if not life changing and I can help people to achieve this. I am experienced in supporting clients with existential and emotional distress, grief, impact of traumatic experiences as well as life changing physical and neurological conditions. I have substantial experience working with clients with perinatal difficulties and variety of mental health problems.
I understand that starting therapy and opening up to a therapist can feel daunting. However, I also believe that therapy can be transformative, if not life changing and I can help people to achieve this. I am experienced in supporting clients with existential and emotional distress, grief, impact of traumatic experiences as well as life changing physical and neurological conditions. I have substantial experience working with clients with perinatal difficulties and variety of mental health problems.
0121 816 0196 View 0121 816 0196

See more therapy options for Birmingham

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.