Chronic Pain Counselling in Cumnock

Photo of Shirley Macmillan
Shirley Macmillan
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a qualified Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist based in Ayrshire. I work predominantly with a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach, but also draw on other therapeutic approaches to provide a more integrative and tailored therapy for you. There are times when we all experience situations that cause distress or uncertainty and it can be difficult to move past these events or to speak to those close to us.
I am a qualified Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist based in Ayrshire. I work predominantly with a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach, but also draw on other therapeutic approaches to provide a more integrative and tailored therapy for you. There are times when we all experience situations that cause distress or uncertainty and it can be difficult to move past these events or to speak to those close to us.
01292 439650 View 01292 439650
Photo of Edmund Dalziel, Counsellor, MCOSCA
Edmund Dalziel
Counsellor, MCOSCA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Do you find it hard to share what’s weighing on you, or feel stuck in patterns that no longer fit? Perhaps life’s changes have left you uncertain, longing for connection, or struggling to feel at ease. I can offer you a compassionate, thoughtful space where those overwhelming thoughts and feelings can be heard—without judgement. Using Transactional Analysis, I’ll work with you to explore how your past shapes your present and gently update the coping strategies that might be holding you back. It’s about building a trusting relationship where you feel safe to be yourself. My goal is to help you improve your connection with yourself.
Do you find it hard to share what’s weighing on you, or feel stuck in patterns that no longer fit? Perhaps life’s changes have left you uncertain, longing for connection, or struggling to feel at ease. I can offer you a compassionate, thoughtful space where those overwhelming thoughts and feelings can be heard—without judgement. Using Transactional Analysis, I’ll work with you to explore how your past shapes your present and gently update the coping strategies that might be holding you back. It’s about building a trusting relationship where you feel safe to be yourself. My goal is to help you improve your connection with yourself.
01292 430744 View 01292 430744

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Maria Georgiou Shippi, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Maria Georgiou Shippi
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
In the past years I helped individuals tackle and alleviate a range of psychological distress arising from chronic pain and physical difficulties; trauma; and interpersonal difficulties, while promoting general and positive life changes.
I am a charted counselling psychologist and believe that the key for successful therapy is the cooperation between clients (you) and myself. I aim to promote honest conversations regarding your needs, goals and aims, along with my ability to help you meet these. I am able to provide therapy both in English and Greek, and have developed a passion for e-therapy. E-Therapy is personal as the video function helps promote the therapeutic relationship while also being practical and time effective by taking away the hassle of travelling for your sessions. E-therapy can be complemented with face to face sessions every few months.
In the past years I helped individuals tackle and alleviate a range of psychological distress arising from chronic pain and physical difficulties; trauma; and interpersonal difficulties, while promoting general and positive life changes.
I am a charted counselling psychologist and believe that the key for successful therapy is the cooperation between clients (you) and myself. I aim to promote honest conversations regarding your needs, goals and aims, along with my ability to help you meet these. I am able to provide therapy both in English and Greek, and have developed a passion for e-therapy. E-Therapy is personal as the video function helps promote the therapeutic relationship while also being practical and time effective by taking away the hassle of travelling for your sessions. E-therapy can be complemented with face to face sessions every few months.
01202 037279 View 01202 037279
Photo of Lisa Tabanivesikula, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Lisa Tabanivesikula
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with clients that may be having sleep issues, pain issues and are struggling to cope.
What would it be like if you put yourself at the top of your list each day? Is today the day you've decided to make a change to your current life and would like someone by your side while you explore it? Has something happened that makes you think "I want something different for my future but I'm not sure where to start?" I have a special interest in supporting people with sleep problems.
I work with clients that may be having sleep issues, pain issues and are struggling to cope.
What would it be like if you put yourself at the top of your list each day? Is today the day you've decided to make a change to your current life and would like someone by your side while you explore it? Has something happened that makes you think "I want something different for my future but I'm not sure where to start?" I have a special interest in supporting people with sleep problems.
01536 907337 View 01536 907337
Photo of Saskia Groh, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, GMBPsS
Saskia Groh
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Whether you’re facing emotional pain, past trauma, relationship issues, or struggling with a general sense of unease, I am here to help you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.
I specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centred Therapy (PCT) while pursuing my doctoral training in Counselling Psychology. I use mindfulness techniques and creative expression to provide a comprehensive and validating experience. My empathic, non-judgemental, and collaborative approach ensures clients feel safe and supported.
Whether you’re facing emotional pain, past trauma, relationship issues, or struggling with a general sense of unease, I am here to help you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.
I specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centred Therapy (PCT) while pursuing my doctoral training in Counselling Psychology. I use mindfulness techniques and creative expression to provide a comprehensive and validating experience. My empathic, non-judgemental, and collaborative approach ensures clients feel safe and supported.
0141 673 9569 View 0141 673 9569
Photo of Valerie Barr - Dynamic Diamond Consultancy, Counsellor, MBACP
Dynamic Diamond Consultancy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
In life we may have similar experiences but our uniqueness as human beings mean we all recover from emotional pain in our own individual way.
Personal therapy can be the greatest gift we give to ourselves for ourselves. Within our sessions I will provide a creative, holistic therapeutic approach which will combine both visual and sensory tools to ensure you can communicate your experience at a level and pace you are comfortable with.
In life we may have similar experiences but our uniqueness as human beings mean we all recover from emotional pain in our own individual way.
Personal therapy can be the greatest gift we give to ourselves for ourselves. Within our sessions I will provide a creative, holistic therapeutic approach which will combine both visual and sensory tools to ensure you can communicate your experience at a level and pace you are comfortable with.
01563 599989 View 01563 599989
Photo of Dr Yvonne McNeill - The Psychology Rooms Clinic - Director Dr McNeill , Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
The Psychology Rooms Clinic - Director Dr McNeill
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
I provide evidence based treatment for trauma and for those with pain, chronic health concerns or physical disabilities.
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with 25+ years’ experience treating children, adolescents, and adults. As Director of The Psychology Rooms, I have a team of twenty mental health clinicians. I treat anxiety, depression, trauma, health issues, stress, appearance concerns, and more, using CBT, EMDR (incl. for under-14s), ACT, CFT, motivational interviewing and mindfulness. I have established working relationships with psychiatrists child and adult, medical consultants, dietitians, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists to ensure a team-based treatment approach when required.
I provide evidence based treatment for trauma and for those with pain, chronic health concerns or physical disabilities.
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with 25+ years’ experience treating children, adolescents, and adults. As Director of The Psychology Rooms, I have a team of twenty mental health clinicians. I treat anxiety, depression, trauma, health issues, stress, appearance concerns, and more, using CBT, EMDR (incl. for under-14s), ACT, CFT, motivational interviewing and mindfulness. I have established working relationships with psychiatrists child and adult, medical consultants, dietitians, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists to ensure a team-based treatment approach when required.
0141 473 6870 View 0141 473 6870
Photo of Angela Williamson, Counsellor, MBACP
Angela Williamson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I have a particular awareness of the impact that long-term conditions, such as fibromyalgia, can have not just on the body, but on self-esteem, identity, and overall mental health.
Hello, and welcome. I’m a qualified integrated person-centred counsellor, and I’m passionate about offering a safe, supportive space where you can explore whatever is going on for you—without fear of judgement. I believe that each person’s journey is unique, and I work in a way that places you firmly at the heart of the process. My integrative approach means I draw on a range of therapeutic techniques, adapting to suit your individual needs, while always staying rooted in the core person-centred values of empathy, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard.
I have a particular awareness of the impact that long-term conditions, such as fibromyalgia, can have not just on the body, but on self-esteem, identity, and overall mental health.
Hello, and welcome. I’m a qualified integrated person-centred counsellor, and I’m passionate about offering a safe, supportive space where you can explore whatever is going on for you—without fear of judgement. I believe that each person’s journey is unique, and I work in a way that places you firmly at the heart of the process. My integrative approach means I draw on a range of therapeutic techniques, adapting to suit your individual needs, while always staying rooted in the core person-centred values of empathy, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard.
01357 513059 View 01357 513059
Photo of Sanika Ekbote, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, GMBPsS
Sanika Ekbote
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
I bring experience from a range of settings & I have worked with adults, and older adults experiencing concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, chronic pain & trauma.
As a South Asian therapist, I integrate cultural sensitivity into my practice, acknowledging the importance of identity, background, and lived experiences. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, where building a trusting therapeutic relationship is at the heart of creating meaningful change and breaking away from the cycle of anxiety and depression.
I bring experience from a range of settings & I have worked with adults, and older adults experiencing concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, chronic pain & trauma.
As a South Asian therapist, I integrate cultural sensitivity into my practice, acknowledging the importance of identity, background, and lived experiences. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, where building a trusting therapeutic relationship is at the heart of creating meaningful change and breaking away from the cycle of anxiety and depression.
0141 673 3420 View 0141 673 3420
Photo of Dr Jonell Smith, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, CPsychol
Dr Jonell Smith
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Dr Jonell Smith is an experienced Chartered Counselling Psychologist, a BPS RAPPS registered clinical supervisor and has a special interest in ADHD, trauma including PTSD, chronic pain and gastrointestinal disorders.
Jonell has a special interest in, and extensive experience providing, evidence-based psychological therapies for ADHD, trauma, chronic pain, and chronic health conditions. As a dedicated psychologist, Jonell is committed to offering compassionate and personalised therapy services to those embarking on their journey toward healing and growth.
Dr Jonell Smith is an experienced Chartered Counselling Psychologist, a BPS RAPPS registered clinical supervisor and has a special interest in ADHD, trauma including PTSD, chronic pain and gastrointestinal disorders.
Jonell has a special interest in, and extensive experience providing, evidence-based psychological therapies for ADHD, trauma, chronic pain, and chronic health conditions. As a dedicated psychologist, Jonell is committed to offering compassionate and personalised therapy services to those embarking on their journey toward healing and growth.
0141 473 6994 View 0141 473 6994
Photo of Anne Glennie
Anne Glennie
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Chronic Pain Therapist and Pain Reprocessing Practitioner, I support a wide range of health conditions with a focus on providing relief and recovery from persistent pain and related symptoms.
I offer holistic, evidence-based support and physical relief with Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Clinical Hypnotherapy (Hypno-CBT), helping you to significantly reduce—and in some cases recover from—persistent pain.
As a Chronic Pain Therapist and Pain Reprocessing Practitioner, I support a wide range of health conditions with a focus on providing relief and recovery from persistent pain and related symptoms.
I offer holistic, evidence-based support and physical relief with Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Clinical Hypnotherapy (Hypno-CBT), helping you to significantly reduce—and in some cases recover from—persistent pain.
01638 592740 View 01638 592740
Photo of Dr David Cunningham - Counselling Psychology Scotland, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Counselling Psychology Scotland
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Serves Area
With over six years of experience in third-sector organisations and the NHS, I have helped clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, bereavement, cancer, addiction, suicidal thoughts, and gender identity issues.
I will take time to understand your difficulties and work with you to find the best approach by integrating several therapies and techniques. I’m committed to creating a respectful and safe space. I offer affirmative gender dysphoria assessments and diagnoses, as well as ADHD assessments and diagnoses and post-diagnosis support.
With over six years of experience in third-sector organisations and the NHS, I have helped clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, bereavement, cancer, addiction, suicidal thoughts, and gender identity issues.
I will take time to understand your difficulties and work with you to find the best approach by integrating several therapies and techniques. I’m committed to creating a respectful and safe space. I offer affirmative gender dysphoria assessments and diagnoses, as well as ADHD assessments and diagnoses and post-diagnosis support.
01479 787946 View 01479 787946
Photo of Sophie Bryson, Counsellor, MBABCP
Sophie Bryson
Counsellor, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I work with clients of any gender on issues such as erection problems, premature/early ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, low desire, pain and penetration problems (e.g. vaginismus, vestibulodynia, vulvodynia), orgasm problems, compulsive sexual behaviour, kink and fetish exploration, this list isn't exhaustive so please reach out to hear more.
NOTE: Currently on holiday - returning 19th May, I will respond to inquires on my return. I am a fully qualified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, alongside this I'm a Trainee Clinical Sexologist and Relationship Therapist. I understand therapy can be daunting, especially discussing intimacy and sexual issues. Creating a safe, non-judgmental space is key to exploring these issues. Psycho-sexual therapy can enhance relationships and sex life. My integrative approach tailors interventions to the individual's needs and will help clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves and how they relate to their own body and to sex itself.
I work with clients of any gender on issues such as erection problems, premature/early ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, low desire, pain and penetration problems (e.g. vaginismus, vestibulodynia, vulvodynia), orgasm problems, compulsive sexual behaviour, kink and fetish exploration, this list isn't exhaustive so please reach out to hear more.
NOTE: Currently on holiday - returning 19th May, I will respond to inquires on my return. I am a fully qualified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, alongside this I'm a Trainee Clinical Sexologist and Relationship Therapist. I understand therapy can be daunting, especially discussing intimacy and sexual issues. Creating a safe, non-judgmental space is key to exploring these issues. Psycho-sexual therapy can enhance relationships and sex life. My integrative approach tailors interventions to the individual's needs and will help clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves and how they relate to their own body and to sex itself.
0131 381 3520 View 0131 381 3520
Photo of Geraldine Mynors, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Geraldine Mynors
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Alongside my private work, I run the counselling team at Revive MS Support in Govan so I'm very aware of the impact of pain and disability on mental health.
Are you struggling with with anxiety, depression, uncertainty about which way to turn, and even despair? Perhaps you find yourself stuck in the same life patterns over and over and wonder where these come from. Maybe you feel your life is at a crossroads and you need a helping hand to make sense of your options. Are you looking for a therapist who has lots of different approaches and tools in her toolbox and a lot of life experience, and who will really listen to you and work with you to help you improve your experience of life?
Alongside my private work, I run the counselling team at Revive MS Support in Govan so I'm very aware of the impact of pain and disability on mental health.
Are you struggling with with anxiety, depression, uncertainty about which way to turn, and even despair? Perhaps you find yourself stuck in the same life patterns over and over and wonder where these come from. Maybe you feel your life is at a crossroads and you need a helping hand to make sense of your options. Are you looking for a therapist who has lots of different approaches and tools in her toolbox and a lot of life experience, and who will really listen to you and work with you to help you improve your experience of life?
0141 673 0289 View 0141 673 0289
Photo of Karina Woldt, Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Karina Woldt
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Qualified Doctorate in Clinical Psychology , CBT therapist, Trauma focussed CBT, Compassionate Mind therapy, ACT (acceptance and Commitment therapy), Couple Therapy, Schema therapy, Health Psychology ( Pain , Diabetes) and more.
I am a warm and compassionate Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in the field. I specialise working with: low self- esteem, depression, anxiety or trauma. If you currently feel very stuck with repetative negative thoughts and feelings, I can help you can get back on track by providing insights and beneficial coping strategies. Often clients come with complex long term issues to me, who thereafter report a massive change in their mood. I create a warm safe, supportive environment where we can explore together the best way for you to improve. I offer in person or online individual or couple work near Dumfries
Qualified Doctorate in Clinical Psychology , CBT therapist, Trauma focussed CBT, Compassionate Mind therapy, ACT (acceptance and Commitment therapy), Couple Therapy, Schema therapy, Health Psychology ( Pain , Diabetes) and more.
I am a warm and compassionate Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in the field. I specialise working with: low self- esteem, depression, anxiety or trauma. If you currently feel very stuck with repetative negative thoughts and feelings, I can help you can get back on track by providing insights and beneficial coping strategies. Often clients come with complex long term issues to me, who thereafter report a massive change in their mood. I create a warm safe, supportive environment where we can explore together the best way for you to improve. I offer in person or online individual or couple work near Dumfries
01946 551044 View 01946 551044
Photo of Lynn Burnett - LB Cranio and Wellbeing
LB Cranio and Wellbeing
Verified Verified
Glasgow G11
Feeling adverse body symptoms or chronic pain?
Somatic Trauma Therapy prioritises the connection between the mind and the body to help support both the physical and psychological symptoms. Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy is a gentle non-invasive but potent way of working with the body using light touch. It can settle the central nervous system, through homeostasis and assist in realigning the body.
Feeling adverse body symptoms or chronic pain?
Somatic Trauma Therapy prioritises the connection between the mind and the body to help support both the physical and psychological symptoms. Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy is a gentle non-invasive but potent way of working with the body using light touch. It can settle the central nervous system, through homeostasis and assist in realigning the body.
01555 700816 View 01555 700816
Photo of Michele Rose Ellen Brannan - Therapy For The Mind , Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Therapy For The Mind
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Glasgow G72
Those include Somatic Therapy with Emotional Mastery Techniques & Skills; I am a Clearing Method Specialist, a primary pain and root caused focused therapist.
The therapeutic environment and relationship I provide supports clients to have a better understanding of where they are at in their lives and make the changes they feel are needed to progress and move forward in their life. I am an EMDR (eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing) therapist which helps with the treatment of trauma and many other issues.
Those include Somatic Therapy with Emotional Mastery Techniques & Skills; I am a Clearing Method Specialist, a primary pain and root caused focused therapist.
The therapeutic environment and relationship I provide supports clients to have a better understanding of where they are at in their lives and make the changes they feel are needed to progress and move forward in their life. I am an EMDR (eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing) therapist which helps with the treatment of trauma and many other issues.
01355 202684 View 01355 202684
Photo of Sharon Joyce, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Sharon Joyce
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Glasgow G77
To work through the emotional pain whether through twelve step recovery or talking based therapy and reflection I am able to offer the space to do this.
GMBPSS, MBACP (Accredited), MCOSCA (Accredited), MSSSC. I use the latest evidence-informed therapies. Accredited Psychotherapist. Masters degree Glasgow University 2001 and Masters degree in counselling and psychotherapy fully accredited and registered with BACP in addition to my fully qualified registration SSSC since my qualification in 1997. I am a registered member of MBACP Accred. MCOSCA and MSSSC. Adhere to policies and procedures and comply with the ethical framework for practice. This includes ongoing professional development, supervision and complainFees available on request. Supervision, BACP and SSSC regulations applied.
To work through the emotional pain whether through twelve step recovery or talking based therapy and reflection I am able to offer the space to do this.
GMBPSS, MBACP (Accredited), MCOSCA (Accredited), MSSSC. I use the latest evidence-informed therapies. Accredited Psychotherapist. Masters degree Glasgow University 2001 and Masters degree in counselling and psychotherapy fully accredited and registered with BACP in addition to my fully qualified registration SSSC since my qualification in 1997. I am a registered member of MBACP Accred. MCOSCA and MSSSC. Adhere to policies and procedures and comply with the ethical framework for practice. This includes ongoing professional development, supervision and complainFees available on request. Supervision, BACP and SSSC regulations applied.
07493 304649 View 07493 304649
Photo of Peter Larkin, Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Peter Larkin
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
I have over ten years of experience completing therapy with adults with all kinds of difficulties including Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Emotional Dysregulation, Psychosis, PTSD, Eating Disorder, Pain, Low Self-Esteem, Interpersonal Difficulties, Burn-Out and Bereavement.
I am trained in a range of psychological approaches and regularly draw from CBT, Compassion Focussed Therapy, Schema Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I view compassion and authenticity as the foundations of my therapeutic stance and I have the training and experience to work flexibly to the needs of my clients.
I have over ten years of experience completing therapy with adults with all kinds of difficulties including Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Emotional Dysregulation, Psychosis, PTSD, Eating Disorder, Pain, Low Self-Esteem, Interpersonal Difficulties, Burn-Out and Bereavement.
I am trained in a range of psychological approaches and regularly draw from CBT, Compassion Focussed Therapy, Schema Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I view compassion and authenticity as the foundations of my therapeutic stance and I have the training and experience to work flexibly to the needs of my clients.
0141 673 9819 View 0141 673 9819
Photo of Claire Stevens, Counsellor, MBACP
Claire Stevens
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My goal is to help you grow from your struggles , heal from your pain , and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
I am a qualified integrative counsellor and supervisor registered with the BACP. I have personal experience of how beneficial counselling can be , and appreciate how difficult it may be to reach out and ask for help. I understand what it is like to be a client, and I aim to offer a safe , non judgemental , confidential environment , allowing you to explore areas of your life that are causing you concern . By building a warm therapeutic relationship , we can work collaboratively to gain insight and perspective into your personal challenges , and overcome any barriers preventing you from reaching your goals.
My goal is to help you grow from your struggles , heal from your pain , and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
I am a qualified integrative counsellor and supervisor registered with the BACP. I have personal experience of how beneficial counselling can be , and appreciate how difficult it may be to reach out and ask for help. I understand what it is like to be a client, and I aim to offer a safe , non judgemental , confidential environment , allowing you to explore areas of your life that are causing you concern . By building a warm therapeutic relationship , we can work collaboratively to gain insight and perspective into your personal challenges , and overcome any barriers preventing you from reaching your goals.
01357 510627 View 01357 510627
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.