Photo of Dr. Anna Yam, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Anna Yam
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
My second main area of focus is pelvic pain in women, including vaginismus, vulvodynia, painful sex, endometriosis, IBS, & bladder pain.
I help individuals who are feeling overwhelmed. Do you feel like you should be doing something more, even when you're already doing something? Is your inner voice telling you to do more, be more, or strive harder? Have you felt like you're failing or "broken" or that there aren't people who understand or care about your suffering? In our work together, we will explore ways of developing comfort with the spectrum of emotions. We also work to balance your caregiving responsibilities with your needs, creating space for your most replenished, empowered self.
My second main area of focus is pelvic pain in women, including vaginismus, vulvodynia, painful sex, endometriosis, IBS, & bladder pain.
I help individuals who are feeling overwhelmed. Do you feel like you should be doing something more, even when you're already doing something? Is your inner voice telling you to do more, be more, or strive harder? Have you felt like you're failing or "broken" or that there aren't people who understand or care about your suffering? In our work together, we will explore ways of developing comfort with the spectrum of emotions. We also work to balance your caregiving responsibilities with your needs, creating space for your most replenished, empowered self.
(858) 430-8069 View (858) 430-8069
Photo of Ilene Rich-Holtzberg Ph.D., Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Ilene Rich-Holtzberg Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
My specialty areas are substance abuse, couples issues, eating disorders, life coaching, bariatric surgery issues, infertility/adoption, helping caregivers cope with dealing with a loved one's chronic illness.
My focus is to develop a relationship with the client. This is called the two person model which is different than the old fashion practice where the doctor is one up and the client is one down. Rather, the two person model attempts to understand the client through questions and mutual discussion. I am not a silent therapist. I give feedback and remain fully engaged with the patient. Together we build a rapport. I adhere to a humanistic approach.
My specialty areas are substance abuse, couples issues, eating disorders, life coaching, bariatric surgery issues, infertility/adoption, helping caregivers cope with dealing with a loved one's chronic illness.
My focus is to develop a relationship with the client. This is called the two person model which is different than the old fashion practice where the doctor is one up and the client is one down. Rather, the two person model attempts to understand the client through questions and mutual discussion. I am not a silent therapist. I give feedback and remain fully engaged with the patient. Together we build a rapport. I adhere to a humanistic approach.
(415) 366-8999 View (415) 366-8999
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 Dr. Kathryn Star Gutierrrez, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Kathryn Star Gutierrrez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
My professional voyage has traversed healthcare, the realm of workers' compensation, and the corridors of education, all of which have endowed me with a rich tapestry of skills. I’m Kathryn Gutierrez, Ph.D., clinical psychologist, educator, and artist specializing in the art of healing. I focus on patients who grapple with the weight of chronic pain, dance with the shadows of anxiety and depression, and bear the scars of trauma. I typically treat adults, who often have a physical injury followed by a sequela of chronic pain. Additionally I treat patients who are struggling with anxiety and depression.
My professional voyage has traversed healthcare, the realm of workers' compensation, and the corridors of education, all of which have endowed me with a rich tapestry of skills. I’m Kathryn Gutierrez, Ph.D., clinical psychologist, educator, and artist specializing in the art of healing. I focus on patients who grapple with the weight of chronic pain, dance with the shadows of anxiety and depression, and bear the scars of trauma. I typically treat adults, who often have a physical injury followed by a sequela of chronic pain. Additionally I treat patients who are struggling with anxiety and depression.
(818) 726-7594 View (818) 726-7594
Photo of Tanisha Thelemaque, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Tanisha Thelemaque
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Are you a person trying to explore your gender, race, or sexuality? Do you struggle to communicate your needs, set boundaries, and be assertive? I challenge you to speak your truth, understand yourself, and be authentic while maintaining boundaries. I use humor and a strong therapeutic relationship to help you be your ideal, most grounded self. When I think about transforming and changing one's life, I always reflect on Audre Lorde's powerful words. "What are the words you do not yet have...Next time, ask: What's the worst that will happen? Then push yourself a little further than you dare. "
Are you a person trying to explore your gender, race, or sexuality? Do you struggle to communicate your needs, set boundaries, and be assertive? I challenge you to speak your truth, understand yourself, and be authentic while maintaining boundaries. I use humor and a strong therapeutic relationship to help you be your ideal, most grounded self. When I think about transforming and changing one's life, I always reflect on Audre Lorde's powerful words. "What are the words you do not yet have...Next time, ask: What's the worst that will happen? Then push yourself a little further than you dare. "
View
Photo of Eve Kupferman, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Eve Kupferman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
I believe that therapy can help you feel more connected to yourself and those around you, freer to pursue your goals, and more alive. My approach is to provide a warm supportive environment so you can feel comfortable and able to speak about whatever is distressing you. I like to work collaboratively, exploring both the past and the present, to figure out what is preventing you from feeling more fulfilled. Together, we will develop strategies to remove these obstacles.
I believe that therapy can help you feel more connected to yourself and those around you, freer to pursue your goals, and more alive. My approach is to provide a warm supportive environment so you can feel comfortable and able to speak about whatever is distressing you. I like to work collaboratively, exploring both the past and the present, to figure out what is preventing you from feeling more fulfilled. Together, we will develop strategies to remove these obstacles.
(415) 894-0931 View (415) 894-0931
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 Lisa Rosequist, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Lisa Rosequist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
My services provide a safe space to explore and empower yourself and learn to overcome obstacles getting in the way of living your most fulfilling life. Clients come to me for treatment of a wide range of symptoms and disorders, including stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, performance psychology, concussion recovery, and executive coaching. Whether you are seeking targeted coaching on work performance or exploration of your past and current life circumstances, I offer a compassionate but focused approach to increasing fulfillment and success.
My services provide a safe space to explore and empower yourself and learn to overcome obstacles getting in the way of living your most fulfilling life. Clients come to me for treatment of a wide range of symptoms and disorders, including stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, performance psychology, concussion recovery, and executive coaching. Whether you are seeking targeted coaching on work performance or exploration of your past and current life circumstances, I offer a compassionate but focused approach to increasing fulfillment and success.
(650) 275-5474 View (650) 275-5474
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 Anna Sapozhnikova, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Anna Sapozhnikova
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in assessment and psychotherapy with adults as well as older adolescents and their families. I provide long- and short-term therapy to individuals struggling with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, life transitions and relationship difficulties. I also provide comprehensive psychological evaluations (e.g., cognitive functioning; diagnostic clarification). My approach to treatment involves bringing together evidence based emotion-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and relational interventions in order to best support the unique needs and goals of my clients.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in assessment and psychotherapy with adults as well as older adolescents and their families. I provide long- and short-term therapy to individuals struggling with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, life transitions and relationship difficulties. I also provide comprehensive psychological evaluations (e.g., cognitive functioning; diagnostic clarification). My approach to treatment involves bringing together evidence based emotion-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and relational interventions in order to best support the unique needs and goals of my clients.
(415) 993-9747 View (415) 993-9747
Photo of India B. Gomez, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
India B. Gomez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I am accepting clients for therapy, coaching, and testing. E-mail is the best way to reach me for a consultation. As a clinical psychologist, I offer therapy and coaching for personal/professional growth. I work with clients to enhance coping with stress, bolster resiliency, and overcome obstacles to living more fully. I also specialize in psychological/personality and intellectual/academic testing and assessment. I have worked with clients of all ages from numerous intersecting ethnic, racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds, as well as a wide range of sexual and gender orientations and various abilities/disabilities.
I am accepting clients for therapy, coaching, and testing. E-mail is the best way to reach me for a consultation. As a clinical psychologist, I offer therapy and coaching for personal/professional growth. I work with clients to enhance coping with stress, bolster resiliency, and overcome obstacles to living more fully. I also specialize in psychological/personality and intellectual/academic testing and assessment. I have worked with clients of all ages from numerous intersecting ethnic, racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds, as well as a wide range of sexual and gender orientations and various abilities/disabilities.
(925) 392-3428 View (925) 392-3428
Photo of Daley Wellness Group | Dr. Luz Daley, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Daley Wellness Group | Dr. Luz Daley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94133  (Online Only)
We practice from an integrated approach to wellness. We combine psychology with hypnotherapy, dreamwork and spirituality. The goal is to tap into the wisdom and healing powers that reside just below conscious awareness. The emergence of self-compassion, self-love and forgiveness builds the foundation that supports transformational healing. We trust each person is the expert in their own life and each person holds the answer they are seeking. Our role is to help those with whom we work to uncover the wisdom and resources they possess.
We practice from an integrated approach to wellness. We combine psychology with hypnotherapy, dreamwork and spirituality. The goal is to tap into the wisdom and healing powers that reside just below conscious awareness. The emergence of self-compassion, self-love and forgiveness builds the foundation that supports transformational healing. We trust each person is the expert in their own life and each person holds the answer they are seeking. Our role is to help those with whom we work to uncover the wisdom and resources they possess.
(209) 370-2663 View (209) 370-2663
Photo of California Integrated Mental Health, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
California Integrated Mental Health
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122
Welcome to Dr. Fujii's private practice. You are a worthwhile magnificent individual. Your life is priceless, meaningful, and valuable. Are you struggling with your current life challenges? Are you experiencing chronic rumination or anxiety? We'll work together and collaboratively explore, analyze, and conceptualize your internal world. I will help you maximize your total physical, mental, psychological, social, and spiritual health with a focus on your healing, personal growth, empowerment, and professional development. I would utilize integrated approaches for your therapeutic endeavors. I look forward to hearing from you!
Welcome to Dr. Fujii's private practice. You are a worthwhile magnificent individual. Your life is priceless, meaningful, and valuable. Are you struggling with your current life challenges? Are you experiencing chronic rumination or anxiety? We'll work together and collaboratively explore, analyze, and conceptualize your internal world. I will help you maximize your total physical, mental, psychological, social, and spiritual health with a focus on your healing, personal growth, empowerment, and professional development. I would utilize integrated approaches for your therapeutic endeavors. I look forward to hearing from you!
(559) 338-5646 View (559) 338-5646
Photo of Laurel Olvera, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Laurel Olvera
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California with 23 years of professional work experience. My mission is to deliver life-changing care to teens, adults, families, couples and geriatric individuals who experience a wide array of mental health conditions and current life challenges. Such as: traumatic stress, struggles with feeling scattered and not accomplishing your goals, managing emotions, challenging negative thinking, and reducing stress and anxiety. Today's world can be intense and stressful, and it's taking an unprecedented toll on kids, teens, adults, couples and families.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California with 23 years of professional work experience. My mission is to deliver life-changing care to teens, adults, families, couples and geriatric individuals who experience a wide array of mental health conditions and current life challenges. Such as: traumatic stress, struggles with feeling scattered and not accomplishing your goals, managing emotions, challenging negative thinking, and reducing stress and anxiety. Today's world can be intense and stressful, and it's taking an unprecedented toll on kids, teens, adults, couples and families.
(805) 500-7803 View (805) 500-7803
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 Mauricio Lask, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Mauricio Lask
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94607
I have over 10 years of experience providing psychotherapy to people facing a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, stress, and chronic pain.
Whether you are struggling with difficult emotions or you would like to have a more vital life, therapy can help guide your personal journey. There are moments when we all struggle, get lost, and stray off the path towards our goals. We get stuck in unhelpful patterns that are hard to break free from. Insight into these patterns can lead to making different choices that are empowering and life-affirming. I create a warm and inviting space for exploration and personal growth. While I provide therapy for adolescents and adults, I also provide psychological evaluations to clients across the lifespan.
I have over 10 years of experience providing psychotherapy to people facing a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, stress, and chronic pain.
Whether you are struggling with difficult emotions or you would like to have a more vital life, therapy can help guide your personal journey. There are moments when we all struggle, get lost, and stray off the path towards our goals. We get stuck in unhelpful patterns that are hard to break free from. Insight into these patterns can lead to making different choices that are empowering and life-affirming. I create a warm and inviting space for exploration and personal growth. While I provide therapy for adolescents and adults, I also provide psychological evaluations to clients across the lifespan.
(510) 240-8249 View (510) 240-8249
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 James L Spira, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
James L Spira
Psychologist, PhD, MPH, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705  (Online Only)
I also specialize in pain, insomnia, migraine, IBS, Fibromyalgia, and coping with cancer, MS, and dementia, and controlling ADHD.
I approach therapy as education - helping clients to better identify patterns associated with difficulties, develop skills to overcome these difficulties, and learn how to utilize these skills in their daily lives in order to live as optimally as possible. We focus both on addressing the issues that have been plaguing you as well as learning to live more fully and comfortably in each moment and activity you are engaged in. Learning powerful skills helps overcome specific problems, boost resilience against future problems, and more fully enjoy daily life. Therapy is individually tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle.
I also specialize in pain, insomnia, migraine, IBS, Fibromyalgia, and coping with cancer, MS, and dementia, and controlling ADHD.
I approach therapy as education - helping clients to better identify patterns associated with difficulties, develop skills to overcome these difficulties, and learn how to utilize these skills in their daily lives in order to live as optimally as possible. We focus both on addressing the issues that have been plaguing you as well as learning to live more fully and comfortably in each moment and activity you are engaged in. Learning powerful skills helps overcome specific problems, boost resilience against future problems, and more fully enjoy daily life. Therapy is individually tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle.
(808) 495-0038 View (808) 495-0038

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.