Photo of Deborah M Gonzales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Deborah M Gonzales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, CHT, CFSW
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
ALL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOW VIA TELE-HEALTH to clients anywhere in Alaska, N.C. or FL https://youtu.be/3rgHRqrzuEg Are you stressed out, anxious? Overwhelmed? Struggling with perfection? Do you deal with chronic pain or illness? Are you having communication problems with your partner? Is your plate too full and are you struggling to keep up? I PROMISE to respond to your Email and/or request for an appointment in less than 24 hours. When you reach out for help, you deserve to be heard and respected with a timely response.
ALL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOW VIA TELE-HEALTH to clients anywhere in Alaska, N.C. or FL https://youtu.be/3rgHRqrzuEg Are you stressed out, anxious? Overwhelmed? Struggling with perfection? Do you deal with chronic pain or illness? Are you having communication problems with your partner? Is your plate too full and are you struggling to keep up? I PROMISE to respond to your Email and/or request for an appointment in less than 24 hours. When you reach out for help, you deserve to be heard and respected with a timely response.
(907) 891-8699 View (907) 891-8699
Photo of 333 PM, Psychologist in Alaska
333 PM
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palmer, AK 99645
I have experience working with homeless veterans who were being beat down by the symptoms of their severe mental illness.
I have extensive experience in working with people who have lived through less than ideal circumstances. Many of my clients have learned to overcome sexual abuse, have been able to move past the pains brought on by physical violence, many have worked through horrific memories of active duty, and others have learned to enjoy life even after making some poor decisions that will impact them forever.
I have experience working with homeless veterans who were being beat down by the symptoms of their severe mental illness.
I have extensive experience in working with people who have lived through less than ideal circumstances. Many of my clients have learned to overcome sexual abuse, have been able to move past the pains brought on by physical violence, many have worked through horrific memories of active duty, and others have learned to enjoy life even after making some poor decisions that will impact them forever.
(855) 949-0263 View (855) 949-0263
Photo of Nathaniel Oliver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Nathaniel Oliver
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
He specializes in treating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, chronic illness, stress, compulsive behaviors (such as eating, cutting, sex, gambling) and couples.
Hailing from Wooster, Ohio, Nathaniel has called Alaska home since 2004. He has a Master of Arts in Counseling and a heart for helping people connect to their partners, families, and other vital people in their lives. He has 19 years of experience helping clients explore and improve their relational dynamics and personal struggles. Nathaniel is dedicated to tailoring his services to meet the specific needs of his clients.
He specializes in treating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, chronic illness, stress, compulsive behaviors (such as eating, cutting, sex, gambling) and couples.
Hailing from Wooster, Ohio, Nathaniel has called Alaska home since 2004. He has a Master of Arts in Counseling and a heart for helping people connect to their partners, families, and other vital people in their lives. He has 19 years of experience helping clients explore and improve their relational dynamics and personal struggles. Nathaniel is dedicated to tailoring his services to meet the specific needs of his clients.
(907) 201-0177 View (907) 201-0177
Photo of Kokoro Counseling Alaska, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Kokoro Counseling Alaska, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, postpartum, substance use problems, relationship issues, chronic illness, grief, and stress issues.
Evening and Weekend hours are available for Telehealth. Starting April 2024, office hours will be Sundays through Thursdays (3:30 pm - 8:00 pm). Please send an inquiry or request to have a free 15-minute phone consultation. If you are hurting, fearful, confused, sad, stressed, or surrounded by overwhelming things in life, I am here to guide you through; to cultivate and reconnect with your innate strength to heal your wounds and live a quality life. My focus is to work collaboratively with you to find a unique and individualized process or solution that would take you further along in your healing journey.
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, postpartum, substance use problems, relationship issues, chronic illness, grief, and stress issues.
Evening and Weekend hours are available for Telehealth. Starting April 2024, office hours will be Sundays through Thursdays (3:30 pm - 8:00 pm). Please send an inquiry or request to have a free 15-minute phone consultation. If you are hurting, fearful, confused, sad, stressed, or surrounded by overwhelming things in life, I am here to guide you through; to cultivate and reconnect with your innate strength to heal your wounds and live a quality life. My focus is to work collaboratively with you to find a unique and individualized process or solution that would take you further along in your healing journey.
(907) 318-8601 View (907) 318-8601
Photo of Tamar Boyd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Tamar Boyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Juneau, AK 99801
As a researcher and counselor, I am honored to hold the information and wisdom pertaining to creating and sustaining optimal wellbeing and satisfaction in life. I consider my counseling practice to be the space in which this knowledge is shared, unfolding as part of a collaborative process that is unique for each individual clients' journey. By shining a light on the "here and now" (inner dialogue), I work with my clients to acknowledge and understand the patterns of thinking, behaving, and feeling that may be causing stagnation (and pain), so that we can then move from where one is currently at, to where one wants to be.
As a researcher and counselor, I am honored to hold the information and wisdom pertaining to creating and sustaining optimal wellbeing and satisfaction in life. I consider my counseling practice to be the space in which this knowledge is shared, unfolding as part of a collaborative process that is unique for each individual clients' journey. By shining a light on the "here and now" (inner dialogue), I work with my clients to acknowledge and understand the patterns of thinking, behaving, and feeling that may be causing stagnation (and pain), so that we can then move from where one is currently at, to where one wants to be.
(855) 696-0074 View (855) 696-0074
Photo of Heather Caldwell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Heather Caldwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
Life can get overwhelming and it's easy to feel lost, anxious, and/or depressed, bogged down with busy schedules, work issues, childhood trauma, chronic pain, relationship/intimacy conflicts, complicated parent and/or child relationships, questioning one's identity or coming into one's sexuality - and well, it can feel like too much! These compounding stressors impact our ability to connect with ourselves and with others, as well as our ability to lead satisfying and full lives. My hope is that together, you can (re)discover your path to a fulfilled and integrated life by embodying your emotional, spiritual, and creative self.
Life can get overwhelming and it's easy to feel lost, anxious, and/or depressed, bogged down with busy schedules, work issues, childhood trauma, chronic pain, relationship/intimacy conflicts, complicated parent and/or child relationships, questioning one's identity or coming into one's sexuality - and well, it can feel like too much! These compounding stressors impact our ability to connect with ourselves and with others, as well as our ability to lead satisfying and full lives. My hope is that together, you can (re)discover your path to a fulfilled and integrated life by embodying your emotional, spiritual, and creative self.
(888) 564-0124 View (888) 564-0124
Photo of Patty Bullick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Patty Bullick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kenai, AK 99611  (Online Only)
Are you ready to ease suffering and pain caused by symptoms of chronic illness, depression, anxiety, stress, or PTSD? Are you seeking a solution-focused, goal-oriented approach to your mental health care? Are you looking for judgment-free, compassionate, and committed guidance for your healing journey?
Are you ready to ease suffering and pain caused by symptoms of chronic illness, depression, anxiety, stress, or PTSD? Are you seeking a solution-focused, goal-oriented approach to your mental health care? Are you looking for judgment-free, compassionate, and committed guidance for your healing journey?
(866) 517-8630 View (866) 517-8630
Photo of Colleen Nusbaum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Colleen Nusbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDCI, LPC Sup
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Soldotna, AK 99669
I have worked with individual’s ages two years to 90 years old with depression, anxiety, intellectual/physical disabilities, military individuals/families, child welfare, co-occurring substance use disorders, children, couples, severe mental illness, mood disorders, brain injury, divorce, suicide, self harm, trauma, and provided expert testimony in courts.
I was born in Anchorage, Alaska and have lived on the Kenai Peninsula with my mother, husband and two daughters since 2005. Since 2010, I’ve dedicated myself to mental/behavioral health challenges and teamed with my clients in order to help them achieve healthy/balanced personal lives and relationships. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and member of the Kenai Peninsula Community, I’m deeply committed to being there when you need me most—helping you explore, heal, and move forward into a happy and healthy mindset. I work with all ages from 2 years to our elders. I'm here for you, get in touch and book your session today...
I have worked with individual’s ages two years to 90 years old with depression, anxiety, intellectual/physical disabilities, military individuals/families, child welfare, co-occurring substance use disorders, children, couples, severe mental illness, mood disorders, brain injury, divorce, suicide, self harm, trauma, and provided expert testimony in courts.
I was born in Anchorage, Alaska and have lived on the Kenai Peninsula with my mother, husband and two daughters since 2005. Since 2010, I’ve dedicated myself to mental/behavioral health challenges and teamed with my clients in order to help them achieve healthy/balanced personal lives and relationships. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and member of the Kenai Peninsula Community, I’m deeply committed to being there when you need me most—helping you explore, heal, and move forward into a happy and healthy mindset. I work with all ages from 2 years to our elders. I'm here for you, get in touch and book your session today...
(907) 394-4442 View (907) 394-4442
Photo of Lawrence Whitaker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Lawrence Whitaker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Accepting telehealth clients. Really enjoy helping others find relief & working with all types of issues whether it be a life change or lingering relationship issues, I am excited to work with you. I have been lucky enough to have worked in a variety of settings giving me unique insight to critical life situations such as: divorce, loss of a loved one, legal issues, family members with severe mental illness. Master’s Level Licensed Mental Health Professional letter for emotional support animal-related services (assessments and therapeutic counseling) for adults.
Accepting telehealth clients. Really enjoy helping others find relief & working with all types of issues whether it be a life change or lingering relationship issues, I am excited to work with you. I have been lucky enough to have worked in a variety of settings giving me unique insight to critical life situations such as: divorce, loss of a loved one, legal issues, family members with severe mental illness. Master’s Level Licensed Mental Health Professional letter for emotional support animal-related services (assessments and therapeutic counseling) for adults.
(907) 420-4764 View (907) 420-4764
Photo of Refocus Counseling Ministry, Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Refocus Counseling Ministry, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654
25+ years of clinical experience serving adolescents, adults, couples/families finding their way, we are confident that you too can find healing and restoration from pain! State Supervisor, Board Certified, Licensed, EMDR, EAGALA, PREP, Playtherapist, Love&Logic, Christian Clinical, Certified Specialized Therapists for Individuals, Children and Families.
There are times you may experience life controlled by intense emotions or paralyzing anxiety/fear, detached numbness takes over. Traumatic memories that are overwhelming, causing insomnia or night tears. Facing another day in Alaska with loneliness, regrets and even suicidal ideation is too much! Relationships suffer from conflict and lack of intimacy, distraction is inevitable.Teen conflict, locked in power struggles without solutions that result in endless frustration dominating your time. Emotional control, seems like only a vague dream, that is illusive and beyond you. You are on your way towards healing, We can show you with
25+ years of clinical experience serving adolescents, adults, couples/families finding their way, we are confident that you too can find healing and restoration from pain! State Supervisor, Board Certified, Licensed, EMDR, EAGALA, PREP, Playtherapist, Love&Logic, Christian Clinical, Certified Specialized Therapists for Individuals, Children and Families.
There are times you may experience life controlled by intense emotions or paralyzing anxiety/fear, detached numbness takes over. Traumatic memories that are overwhelming, causing insomnia or night tears. Facing another day in Alaska with loneliness, regrets and even suicidal ideation is too much! Relationships suffer from conflict and lack of intimacy, distraction is inevitable.Teen conflict, locked in power struggles without solutions that result in endless frustration dominating your time. Emotional control, seems like only a vague dream, that is illusive and beyond you. You are on your way towards healing, We can show you with
(907) 521-8504 View (907) 521-8504
Photo of K. Bryan McInnis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
K. Bryan McInnis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
Waitlist for new clients
I help people whose lives have been impacted by trauma find hope, healing, and transformation. The impact of trauma can be seen in nearly every aspect of the human experience, manifest in our mind, body, emotions, relationships, and our deepest sense of self. If you are struggling with emotional distress, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, feeling numb or disconnected from life, or hidden in the shadow of grief and loss, the truth is that you are not alone and healing is possible.
I help people whose lives have been impacted by trauma find hope, healing, and transformation. The impact of trauma can be seen in nearly every aspect of the human experience, manifest in our mind, body, emotions, relationships, and our deepest sense of self. If you are struggling with emotional distress, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, feeling numb or disconnected from life, or hidden in the shadow of grief and loss, the truth is that you are not alone and healing is possible.
(844) 818-0721 View (844) 818-0721
Photo of Seasons Change Counseling, Counselor in Alaska
Seasons Change Counseling
Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairbanks, AK 99701  (Online Only)
I know you are in pain, you are feeling alone and you might feel stuck.
If you are looking for a change in your life - this is it. We all have seasons in our life where it is hard to manage, hard to deal with, and hard to figure out on our own. Sometimes we just can't cope with all the challenges of daily life and need someone to help navigate and offer a fresh new look. Doesn't matter what you are looking for, we can problem-solve it together and get you feeling better soon!
I know you are in pain, you are feeling alone and you might feel stuck.
If you are looking for a change in your life - this is it. We all have seasons in our life where it is hard to manage, hard to deal with, and hard to figure out on our own. Sometimes we just can't cope with all the challenges of daily life and need someone to help navigate and offer a fresh new look. Doesn't matter what you are looking for, we can problem-solve it together and get you feeling better soon!
(907) 318-7067 View (907) 318-7067
Photo of Cesre McQuaid, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Cesre McQuaid
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Haines, AK 99827
Waitlist for new clients
It is possible to brave your deepest feelings and face what in your life isn’t working. Whether you are struggling with a specific issue, or feel that there should be more to life, counseling can help enhance the trust you have in yourself. Together we can strengthen your self-worth and better understand the significance of your relationships. Navigating current stressors and processing past emotional pain is possible. My goal is to assist you in developing somatic and energetic awareness, discovering solutions for a better future. I provide counseling services in an accepting and supportive environment, for adults and couples.
It is possible to brave your deepest feelings and face what in your life isn’t working. Whether you are struggling with a specific issue, or feel that there should be more to life, counseling can help enhance the trust you have in yourself. Together we can strengthen your self-worth and better understand the significance of your relationships. Navigating current stressors and processing past emotional pain is possible. My goal is to assist you in developing somatic and energetic awareness, discovering solutions for a better future. I provide counseling services in an accepting and supportive environment, for adults and couples.
(907) 766-3600 View (907) 766-3600
Photo of George R. Kirchner LLC, Counselor in Alaska
George R. Kirchner LLC
Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, CDC-S, ABHC
Verified Verified
Fairbanks, AK 99701
One day we may download a User's Manual for being human. Until then, therapy can help us navigate the rocky shoals and shed light onto the dark spots while setting ghosts to rest. We are far more capable than we think we are or given credit for. Napoleon Hill is quoted as saying, "What you can conceive and BELIEVE, you can achieve." That works both ways. Therapy can often re-open the doors to choice, frequently help us find our feet, and often move us to look to a bright future and to hear the music of everyday living. It is really hard to run through the woods backwards.
One day we may download a User's Manual for being human. Until then, therapy can help us navigate the rocky shoals and shed light onto the dark spots while setting ghosts to rest. We are far more capable than we think we are or given credit for. Napoleon Hill is quoted as saying, "What you can conceive and BELIEVE, you can achieve." That works both ways. Therapy can often re-open the doors to choice, frequently help us find our feet, and often move us to look to a bright future and to hear the music of everyday living. It is really hard to run through the woods backwards.
(907) 331-6749 View (907) 331-6749
Photo of Jeff Brakhage, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Jeff Brakhage
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Soldotna, AK 99669
Jeff works with clients who are beginning with counseling for their emotional, relational, life transition, mental health, medical, end-of-life, grief/loss, and/or addiction issues, as well as those who have been to counseling and are looking for new, more effective approaches and treatments for their concerns. Not only does Jeff have training for the issues above, he also continued to study, receiving certifications in the specialization of treating PTSD, C-PTSD, Developmental Trauma, 'Little t' trauma, abuse, and deprivation.
Jeff works with clients who are beginning with counseling for their emotional, relational, life transition, mental health, medical, end-of-life, grief/loss, and/or addiction issues, as well as those who have been to counseling and are looking for new, more effective approaches and treatments for their concerns. Not only does Jeff have training for the issues above, he also continued to study, receiving certifications in the specialization of treating PTSD, C-PTSD, Developmental Trauma, 'Little t' trauma, abuse, and deprivation.
(907) 917-4381 View (907) 917-4381
Photo of Laureate Counseling & Development LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Laureate Counseling & Development LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMHC, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
Fairbanks, AK 99710  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Laurey Gronemeier, and I provide online counseling across Alaska. Isn't it time you felt better? More empowered to become what you hope to be? How many times have you tried? You go into the woods to clear your mind, you confide in your friends, time after time, yet nothing seems to last. One day you're adrift, and the next you're high-centered, with no lasting improvement in sight. At times like these, it can be worthwhile to seek professional help. No judgment or pressure. Just respectful, specialized support from an Alaskan who gets it. Teletherapy is an art that takes expertise to do well. Reach out today.
Hello, I'm Laurey Gronemeier, and I provide online counseling across Alaska. Isn't it time you felt better? More empowered to become what you hope to be? How many times have you tried? You go into the woods to clear your mind, you confide in your friends, time after time, yet nothing seems to last. One day you're adrift, and the next you're high-centered, with no lasting improvement in sight. At times like these, it can be worthwhile to seek professional help. No judgment or pressure. Just respectful, specialized support from an Alaskan who gets it. Teletherapy is an art that takes expertise to do well. Reach out today.
(833) 248-3382 View (833) 248-3382
Photo of Mara Cramer, Counselor in Alaska
Mara Cramer
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99508
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, family relationships, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, and life transitions. My approach is eclectic, tailored to each individual, and uses strategies, techniques and tools that best fit the needs and preferences of each client.
As a therapist, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, family relationships, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, and life transitions. My approach is eclectic, tailored to each individual, and uses strategies, techniques and tools that best fit the needs and preferences of each client.
(907) 312-2729 View (907) 312-2729
Photo of Shanna S. Simmons, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Shanna S. Simmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99518
I enjoy working with individuals who are ready to take positive steps towards growth and healing. This may include: processing traumas; developing self-awareness; learning about your strengths; and/or changing behaviors, thoughts, coping mechanisms, or interpersonal patterns which are no longer working for you.
I enjoy working with individuals who are ready to take positive steps towards growth and healing. This may include: processing traumas; developing self-awareness; learning about your strengths; and/or changing behaviors, thoughts, coping mechanisms, or interpersonal patterns which are no longer working for you.
(907) 205-7887 View (907) 205-7887
Photo of Meg Wright, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Meg Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Homer, AK 99603
Life is tough! We all face challenges and experience struggle in our lives. Sometimes we need reminding that we have the capacity to overcome our challenges and manage our struggles. Therapy is a great opportunity to gain new insight and perspective, find meaning, increase self-worth and self-confidence, and connect with someone, a guide, who will walk the wellness journey with you on your path to greater health. My background working with adolescents, adults, and families, including military, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC+ individuals and families, provides me with expertise to support you in navigating your individual wellness journey.
Life is tough! We all face challenges and experience struggle in our lives. Sometimes we need reminding that we have the capacity to overcome our challenges and manage our struggles. Therapy is a great opportunity to gain new insight and perspective, find meaning, increase self-worth and self-confidence, and connect with someone, a guide, who will walk the wellness journey with you on your path to greater health. My background working with adolescents, adults, and families, including military, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC+ individuals and families, provides me with expertise to support you in navigating your individual wellness journey.
(907) 931-6930 View (907) 931-6930
Photo of Confidential Care in Alaska
Confidential Care
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
Confidential Care is a private psychiatric and mental health agency dedicated to providing the highest quality therapeutic mental health services to aid individuals, couples, and families through their most difficult and challenging times. Through therapeutic services, the individual will receive emotional support, work to resolve conflicts with people, understand feelings and problems, and try out new solutions to old problems. Confidential Care offers medication management by our psychiatric nurse practitioner and comprehensive counseling services by our therapists.
Confidential Care is a private psychiatric and mental health agency dedicated to providing the highest quality therapeutic mental health services to aid individuals, couples, and families through their most difficult and challenging times. Through therapeutic services, the individual will receive emotional support, work to resolve conflicts with people, understand feelings and problems, and try out new solutions to old problems. Confidential Care offers medication management by our psychiatric nurse practitioner and comprehensive counseling services by our therapists.
(907) 357-1999 View (907) 357-1999
Chronic Pain Therapists

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, catastrophizing, 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 behavioral 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.