Photo of Brian King, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Brian King
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
, depression, anxiety, pain, self-destructive behaviors, substance use).
I seek to provide a thoughtful and reflective setting where clients develop greater understanding of their problems and limitations through honest exploration of themselves, and to bolster strengths/foster growth. I provide a friendly and open atmosphere to invite sharing of whatever thought or feeling that comes up so that they can be explored, analyzed and ultimately changed if you want. I work in a collaborative way and do not necessarily see my role as an advice giver, but as a thoughtful companion in helping you find your own solutions and understanding. I use a flexible blend of clinical techniques and theories.
, depression, anxiety, pain, self-destructive behaviors, substance use).
I seek to provide a thoughtful and reflective setting where clients develop greater understanding of their problems and limitations through honest exploration of themselves, and to bolster strengths/foster growth. I provide a friendly and open atmosphere to invite sharing of whatever thought or feeling that comes up so that they can be explored, analyzed and ultimately changed if you want. I work in a collaborative way and do not necessarily see my role as an advice giver, but as a thoughtful companion in helping you find your own solutions and understanding. I use a flexible blend of clinical techniques and theories.
(415) 991-3069 View (415) 991-3069
Photo of Bay Area Center for Adolescents, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Bay Area Center for Adolescents
Psychologist
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
We at the Bay Area Center for Adolescents understand that adolescence can be a difficult time for preteens, teens, young adults, and parents. On the one hand, adolescents are learning to manage life on their own and wanting more independence, but on the other hand, they may not be prepared for the responsibilities of life or realizing the consequences of their actions. We work with adolescents and their families to navigate this difficult time while helping adolescents to become independent, but still maintain the relationship with family. The Bay Area Center for Adolescents is a group of providers who all know how to connect with adolescents and their families and provide effective therapy.
We at the Bay Area Center for Adolescents understand that adolescence can be a difficult time for preteens, teens, young adults, and parents. On the one hand, adolescents are learning to manage life on their own and wanting more independence, but on the other hand, they may not be prepared for the responsibilities of life or realizing the consequences of their actions. We work with adolescents and their families to navigate this difficult time while helping adolescents to become independent, but still maintain the relationship with family. The Bay Area Center for Adolescents is a group of providers who all know how to connect with adolescents and their families and provide effective therapy.
(415) 594-4958 View (415) 594-4958
Photo of Patricia Jane Weiss, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Patricia Jane Weiss
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
This is Dr. Patricia Jane Weiss, PhD. I am a Neuropsychologist, and I specialize in treating children , teens and adults. I do an assessment of cognitive and psychological tests. The point of the assessment (group of tests) is to determine if the client has any Learning Disorders that are blocking them from being able to use their full potential in both school and/or work. I specialize in children and teens who may need accommodations at school, and on Standardized testing or testing at school.I also work with adults who may need accommodations at work or who are involved in forensic situations.
This is Dr. Patricia Jane Weiss, PhD. I am a Neuropsychologist, and I specialize in treating children , teens and adults. I do an assessment of cognitive and psychological tests. The point of the assessment (group of tests) is to determine if the client has any Learning Disorders that are blocking them from being able to use their full potential in both school and/or work. I specialize in children and teens who may need accommodations at school, and on Standardized testing or testing at school.I also work with adults who may need accommodations at work or who are involved in forensic situations.
(415) 528-3274 View (415) 528-3274
Photo of Honeycomb Wellness Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Honeycomb Wellness Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. Emotional, psychological and social health are important in creating overall health and well being. It is our goal at Honeycomb Group to help you become the person, couple or family you want to be, and uncover your full potential.
We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. Emotional, psychological and social health are important in creating overall health and well being. It is our goal at Honeycomb Group to help you become the person, couple or family you want to be, and uncover your full potential.
(415) 338-9366 View (415) 338-9366
Photo of Abbie Loveland Tuller, Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Abbie Loveland Tuller
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
The greatest discovery I have made in life is to embrace the unexpected, to crave the twists and turns as much as the great joys of life, and to lead with curiosity. Life can often feel scary, and we may face challenges that leave us feeling like there is nowhere to turn. If you find yourself feeling this way, you are not alone. Whether you are dealing with feelings of great sadness, anxiousness that feels uncontrollable, or struggling to move past an event in your life you have turned to the right place. Seeking therapy can lead to a greater understanding of yourself, the world around you, and the person you want to be.
The greatest discovery I have made in life is to embrace the unexpected, to crave the twists and turns as much as the great joys of life, and to lead with curiosity. Life can often feel scary, and we may face challenges that leave us feeling like there is nowhere to turn. If you find yourself feeling this way, you are not alone. Whether you are dealing with feelings of great sadness, anxiousness that feels uncontrollable, or struggling to move past an event in your life you have turned to the right place. Seeking therapy can lead to a greater understanding of yourself, the world around you, and the person you want to be.
(917) 512-5866 View (917) 512-5866
Photo of Meire Santos, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Meire Santos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122
My approach to therapy emphasizes self knowledge, empowerment and insight helping move towards a more integral, meaningful and gratifying life. It is with passion and kindness that I witness the healing transformation a person goes through in the therapeutic relationship. Originally from Brazil, I speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese working with clients who speak these languages. Three theories permeate my work: the Integral theory of Ken Wilber, Psychodynamic theory, and Hakomi. I integrate into the analysis the physical, mental, emotional, and social parts of the self (Integral) in a mindfulness-based, body inclusive, and experiential perspective (Hakomi).
My approach to therapy emphasizes self knowledge, empowerment and insight helping move towards a more integral, meaningful and gratifying life. It is with passion and kindness that I witness the healing transformation a person goes through in the therapeutic relationship. Originally from Brazil, I speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese working with clients who speak these languages. Three theories permeate my work: the Integral theory of Ken Wilber, Psychodynamic theory, and Hakomi. I integrate into the analysis the physical, mental, emotional, and social parts of the self (Integral) in a mindfulness-based, body inclusive, and experiential perspective (Hakomi).
(510) 606-8607 View (510) 606-8607

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karin K. Vandervoort, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Karin K. Vandervoort
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94620
My services are built on years of compassionate & successful treatment outcomes: decreased passive and invasive modalities to treat injury/illness; recovered partnerships; reconciliation of loss, limitation, and trauma; greater flexibility and freedom; decreased internal "sibling rivalry"; & greater enjoyment of what you already have and who you already are.
Without meaning and the chance to therapeutically practice new insights and behaviors, we may suffer unnecessarily during times of high stress, trauma, or in daily life. Feelings may become an overwhelming flood of dread, sorrow or numbness; thinking becomes confused, panicky, and self-critical; joy, spontaneity and self-trust may feel lost. Together we can make good use of your strengths, symptoms and external challenges. Through exploring and deepening our understanding and trust in your own inner world, dignity and liveliness may be restored even under the most challenging or enduring of circumstances, illnesses or problems.
My services are built on years of compassionate & successful treatment outcomes: decreased passive and invasive modalities to treat injury/illness; recovered partnerships; reconciliation of loss, limitation, and trauma; greater flexibility and freedom; decreased internal "sibling rivalry"; & greater enjoyment of what you already have and who you already are.
Without meaning and the chance to therapeutically practice new insights and behaviors, we may suffer unnecessarily during times of high stress, trauma, or in daily life. Feelings may become an overwhelming flood of dread, sorrow or numbness; thinking becomes confused, panicky, and self-critical; joy, spontaneity and self-trust may feel lost. Together we can make good use of your strengths, symptoms and external challenges. Through exploring and deepening our understanding and trust in your own inner world, dignity and liveliness may be restored even under the most challenging or enduring of circumstances, illnesses or problems.
(510) 878-3596 View (510) 878-3596
Photo of Julia Mendoza, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Julia Mendoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Hello I'm Julia Mendoza, a therapist providing therapy throughout the state of California. I have experience working with children and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, LGBT+ issues, OCD, personality disorders, family problems, relationship and partner conflict, and traumas. I truly enjoy helping others and I have been told that I am funny, genuine, open-minded, and a good listener. Se habla Español!
Hello I'm Julia Mendoza, a therapist providing therapy throughout the state of California. I have experience working with children and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, LGBT+ issues, OCD, personality disorders, family problems, relationship and partner conflict, and traumas. I truly enjoy helping others and I have been told that I am funny, genuine, open-minded, and a good listener. Se habla Español!
(951) 438-7873 View (951) 438-7873

Online Therapists

Photo of Carrie L Forrest, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Carrie L Forrest
Psychologist, PhD, QME
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
I utilize my training and experience in Psychotherapy, Medical Hypnosis and Biofeedback to help you accomplish your desired goals. From my extensive background I utilize what will work best for you as an individual. A result of our work together is for you to become congruent within all aspects of your life; your actions, thoughts and feelings, while living to the fullest each and every day. I will help you overcome obstacles and develop healthy coping skills. I specialize in recovery from traumas (PTSD), grief and loss, integrating and assimilating chronic pain, addictive behaviors and other conditions.
I utilize my training and experience in Psychotherapy, Medical Hypnosis and Biofeedback to help you accomplish your desired goals. From my extensive background I utilize what will work best for you as an individual. A result of our work together is for you to become congruent within all aspects of your life; your actions, thoughts and feelings, while living to the fullest each and every day. I will help you overcome obstacles and develop healthy coping skills. I specialize in recovery from traumas (PTSD), grief and loss, integrating and assimilating chronic pain, addictive behaviors and other conditions.
(831) 337-4414 View (831) 337-4414
Photo of Rebecca Leib, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Rebecca Leib
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Felton, CA 95018
I believe in a collaborative therapeutic partnership, one that is supportive, alleviates emotional pain, and promotes growth and healing. My goal is to provide you and your family with the tools to create and maintain life-affirming change in order to lead a more balanced and empowered life.
I believe in a collaborative therapeutic partnership, one that is supportive, alleviates emotional pain, and promotes growth and healing. My goal is to provide you and your family with the tools to create and maintain life-affirming change in order to lead a more balanced and empowered life.
(831) 240-4338 View (831) 240-4338
Photo of Dr. Rebecca A Scott, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Rebecca A Scott
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Danville, CA 94506  (Online Only)
My experience helping patients in a major group practice, providing them with a mental health perspective on their care, has allowed me to become an expert in rapid assessment and specialize in most forms of mental illness.
When we feel stuck in our situation, it can create feelings of hopelessness. In addition to the many problems that complicate our daily lives such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, patients come to me with complex relationship issues including marital distress, divorce recovery, verbal & emotional abuse, loss of child, parent, or spouse. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective, to address the root problem, not just the symptoms. Like physical therapy, the goal is to get well and end treatment. I offer perspective on your experience, and provide clear, concise directions on meeting your treatment goals.
My experience helping patients in a major group practice, providing them with a mental health perspective on their care, has allowed me to become an expert in rapid assessment and specialize in most forms of mental illness.
When we feel stuck in our situation, it can create feelings of hopelessness. In addition to the many problems that complicate our daily lives such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, patients come to me with complex relationship issues including marital distress, divorce recovery, verbal & emotional abuse, loss of child, parent, or spouse. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective, to address the root problem, not just the symptoms. Like physical therapy, the goal is to get well and end treatment. I offer perspective on your experience, and provide clear, concise directions on meeting your treatment goals.
(925) 413-3305 View (925) 413-3305
Photo of Andrew Schnell, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Andrew Schnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
This includes areas of community mental health, private practice, residential facilities, foster care, county mental health, juvenile hall, schools, substance abuse and chemical dependency, adults with severe and persistent mental illness, and crisis intervention.
As human beings we learn, develop meaning, and create a sense of purpose through each other and the relationships we form. In the same spirit I believe the therapeutic process is driven by the relationship formed between the client and the therapist. This is why my approach in therapy is guided by the question - "How can I provide a relationship which this person may use for their personal growth?" I strive to create an empathic, nonjudgmental atmosphere where you feel safe and empowered to work toward personal growth and creating lasting change; forming trust and leaning toward vulnerability.
This includes areas of community mental health, private practice, residential facilities, foster care, county mental health, juvenile hall, schools, substance abuse and chemical dependency, adults with severe and persistent mental illness, and crisis intervention.
As human beings we learn, develop meaning, and create a sense of purpose through each other and the relationships we form. In the same spirit I believe the therapeutic process is driven by the relationship formed between the client and the therapist. This is why my approach in therapy is guided by the question - "How can I provide a relationship which this person may use for their personal growth?" I strive to create an empathic, nonjudgmental atmosphere where you feel safe and empowered to work toward personal growth and creating lasting change; forming trust and leaning toward vulnerability.
(650) 405-0646 View (650) 405-0646
Photo of Catherine Cohen, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Catherine Cohen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
In my practice, I blend a warm, compassionate and respectful approach along with solid science and practical experience. Clients find that the simple act of talking in therapy provides a wealth of information which in turn brings decisions about what to do. My special areas of focus Include work with abuse and trauma survivors, relationship and intimacy issues, work concerns, culture and identity concerns, & chronic illness and health. I welcome adults and adolescents to my practice, and offer individual, couples and family therapy.
In my practice, I blend a warm, compassionate and respectful approach along with solid science and practical experience. Clients find that the simple act of talking in therapy provides a wealth of information which in turn brings decisions about what to do. My special areas of focus Include work with abuse and trauma survivors, relationship and intimacy issues, work concerns, culture and identity concerns, & chronic illness and health. I welcome adults and adolescents to my practice, and offer individual, couples and family therapy.
(916) 444-8834 View (916) 444-8834
Photo of Samuel Donath, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Samuel Donath
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Citrus Heights, CA 95610  (Online Only)
If we decide to work together, I assure a completely safe space for you to express yourself, guidance to reach a greater understanding of what is causing you pain, and tools to help manage how you feel.
You have difficulty controlling your thoughts, behaviors, relationships, or your sex life. You find yourself behaving in ways that you don’t understand and have gotten you into trouble. You have tried to figure this out on your own, and it isn’t working. You want to understand yourself better, be a better version of yourself, and you are needing change. During my professional career, I have helped many clients with issues in these areas. Life is complex, and even the most successful and intelligent people need help at times.
If we decide to work together, I assure a completely safe space for you to express yourself, guidance to reach a greater understanding of what is causing you pain, and tools to help manage how you feel.
You have difficulty controlling your thoughts, behaviors, relationships, or your sex life. You find yourself behaving in ways that you don’t understand and have gotten you into trouble. You have tried to figure this out on your own, and it isn’t working. You want to understand yourself better, be a better version of yourself, and you are needing change. During my professional career, I have helped many clients with issues in these areas. Life is complex, and even the most successful and intelligent people need help at times.
(916) 666-2759 View (916) 666-2759
Photo of Briana Barrera, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Francisco, CA
Briana Barrera
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
(310) 807-2734 View (310) 807-2734
Photo of Tara Meskowsky, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Tara Meskowsky
Psychologist, PsyD, BCN
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95661
Hello and welcome! I'm Dr. Tara Meskowsky (licensed clinical psychologist and board certified in neurofeedback) and I specialize in individual therapy and neurotherapy/biofeedback for adolescents, teens, and adults. I use neurotherapy for most challenges, including ADHD, ASD, anxiety, depression, TBI, trauma, and sports performance. I also like to utilize different approaches in psychotherapy, including EMDR, CBT, and behavior modification. I have worked in the psychology field for over twenty years, absolutely love what I do, and am here to help. Please reach out if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
Hello and welcome! I'm Dr. Tara Meskowsky (licensed clinical psychologist and board certified in neurofeedback) and I specialize in individual therapy and neurotherapy/biofeedback for adolescents, teens, and adults. I use neurotherapy for most challenges, including ADHD, ASD, anxiety, depression, TBI, trauma, and sports performance. I also like to utilize different approaches in psychotherapy, including EMDR, CBT, and behavior modification. I have worked in the psychology field for over twenty years, absolutely love what I do, and am here to help. Please reach out if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment.
(530) 531-8823 View (530) 531-8823
Photo of Maria Theresa Taheny, Psychological Associate in San Francisco, CA
Maria Theresa Taheny
Psychological Associate, MA, PHD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Antelope, CA 95843  (Online Only)
As a collaborative practitioner, I work closely with clients and explore experiences to find meaning while utilizing humanistic, psychodynamic and experiential techniques, changing the emotional triggers of trauma, thereby changing how you respond to the world. Therapy is an interactive and dynamic process, affecting the way we see ourselves. Everything we do makes perfect sense and to change what we do requires understanding why it makes sense. I work in a way that honors all parts of self. I am a Christian in the Catholic tradition and honor all religious and spiritual journeys.
As a collaborative practitioner, I work closely with clients and explore experiences to find meaning while utilizing humanistic, psychodynamic and experiential techniques, changing the emotional triggers of trauma, thereby changing how you respond to the world. Therapy is an interactive and dynamic process, affecting the way we see ourselves. Everything we do makes perfect sense and to change what we do requires understanding why it makes sense. I work in a way that honors all parts of self. I am a Christian in the Catholic tradition and honor all religious and spiritual journeys.
(916) 623-7724 View (916) 623-7724
Photo of Marilee Ruebsamen, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Marilee Ruebsamen
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Saratoga, CA 95070
Are you concerned for your children in an ongoing high conflict divorce or another highly distressing situation? I consult, support, offer parent/child coping strategies to prevent longterm effects of severe stress & trauma for children/affected others. Even the youngest can demonstrate remarkable resilience. We attend to their confusion, impaired awareness, degree of distorted cognition. Parents cultivate enhanced attunement, insight, learn to see beyond children's distorted appraisal. We co-create more accurate thinking, safer, more healthy relationships, make space for more realistic understanding, provide predictability, constancy, enhanced trust, explore feelings, support emotional regulation, form new, hope-filled stories to replace frightening, traumatic ones.
Are you concerned for your children in an ongoing high conflict divorce or another highly distressing situation? I consult, support, offer parent/child coping strategies to prevent longterm effects of severe stress & trauma for children/affected others. Even the youngest can demonstrate remarkable resilience. We attend to their confusion, impaired awareness, degree of distorted cognition. Parents cultivate enhanced attunement, insight, learn to see beyond children's distorted appraisal. We co-create more accurate thinking, safer, more healthy relationships, make space for more realistic understanding, provide predictability, constancy, enhanced trust, explore feelings, support emotional regulation, form new, hope-filled stories to replace frightening, traumatic ones.
(831) 275-8260 View (831) 275-8260
Photo of Marilee G. Ruebsamen, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Marilee G. Ruebsamen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Promoting healing & trustworthy engagement for children, youth, their families, adults who come seeking shelter, emotional safety and refuge (see abbeypsychservices.com). Even the youngest demonstrate remarkable strengths with precise, attuned, attention to their levels of awareness, given new experiences to help transform distorted cognitive appraisals of themselves, others, relationships, the world. Working together, we cultivate more accurate appraisals of internal/external experience, shift into clearer, more realistic thinking, enhanced empathy, healthier, more effective coping styles. We co-create new, hopeful, cooperative stories to replace hopeless, repetitive, "traumatic reliving" within the safety of a predictable, nurturing, skillfully maintained therapeutic environment.
Promoting healing & trustworthy engagement for children, youth, their families, adults who come seeking shelter, emotional safety and refuge (see abbeypsychservices.com). Even the youngest demonstrate remarkable strengths with precise, attuned, attention to their levels of awareness, given new experiences to help transform distorted cognitive appraisals of themselves, others, relationships, the world. Working together, we cultivate more accurate appraisals of internal/external experience, shift into clearer, more realistic thinking, enhanced empathy, healthier, more effective coping styles. We co-create new, hopeful, cooperative stories to replace hopeless, repetitive, "traumatic reliving" within the safety of a predictable, nurturing, skillfully maintained therapeutic environment.
(831) 275-8260 View (831) 275-8260
Photo of Dr. Cory R. Sullins, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Cory R. Sullins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95661  (Online Only)
We provide a full spectrum of services for mental health concerns in order to be of service to our community. We are goal/plan oriented to assist patients in overcoming obstacles in their lives. We very much provide an eclectic approach that is often inclusive of a variety of theories/treatments in order to meet the needs of the patient.
We provide a full spectrum of services for mental health concerns in order to be of service to our community. We are goal/plan oriented to assist patients in overcoming obstacles in their lives. We very much provide an eclectic approach that is often inclusive of a variety of theories/treatments in order to meet the needs of the patient.
(424) 347-1991 View (424) 347-1991

See more therapy options for San Francisco

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.