Photo of Taylor Pastor, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Taylor Pastor
Counselor, APC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
My experience researching and working with chronic pain patients shapes my approach.
Life can take unexpected turns, revealing the lasting impact of our experiences. As a trauma-informed therapist, I specialize in helping individuals, families, and couples navigate through the intricacies of complex trauma, chronic pain/illness, grief, and relationship struggles. Whether it's untangling the web of trauma survival or finding a way through the fog of grief, I'm here to walk alongside you. My expertise lies in creating a safe space where you can comfortably explore your story and cultivate resilience to actively engage in and savor life again.
My experience researching and working with chronic pain patients shapes my approach.
Life can take unexpected turns, revealing the lasting impact of our experiences. As a trauma-informed therapist, I specialize in helping individuals, families, and couples navigate through the intricacies of complex trauma, chronic pain/illness, grief, and relationship struggles. Whether it's untangling the web of trauma survival or finding a way through the fog of grief, I'm here to walk alongside you. My expertise lies in creating a safe space where you can comfortably explore your story and cultivate resilience to actively engage in and savor life again.
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Photo of Denisa Millette, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Denisa Millette
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CPCS, CCTP, DBT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30328
Using clinical assessment to create individual treatment plans tailored to client needs and addressing multiple ongoing issues (anxiety, ADHD, depression, low self-esteem, PTSD, grief, chronic pain, etc.
My calling is to serve children and adults who deal with a variety of emotional and behavioral imbalances due to psychological trauma or other stressors. As a trauma and DBT-certified therapist, I work with my clients toward the restoration of their emotional wellness by integrating aspects of trauma-focused cognitive behavioral (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapies (DBT), as well as ART therapy, play therapy, and mind-body practices. I also provide court-ordered reunification therapy, group therapy, and clinical diagnostic evaluations and assessments. Currently offering FREE clinical assessment for self-pay therapy clients.
Using clinical assessment to create individual treatment plans tailored to client needs and addressing multiple ongoing issues (anxiety, ADHD, depression, low self-esteem, PTSD, grief, chronic pain, etc.
My calling is to serve children and adults who deal with a variety of emotional and behavioral imbalances due to psychological trauma or other stressors. As a trauma and DBT-certified therapist, I work with my clients toward the restoration of their emotional wellness by integrating aspects of trauma-focused cognitive behavioral (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapies (DBT), as well as ART therapy, play therapy, and mind-body practices. I also provide court-ordered reunification therapy, group therapy, and clinical diagnostic evaluations and assessments. Currently offering FREE clinical assessment for self-pay therapy clients.
(470) 635-5323 View (470) 635-5323
Photo of Rich Williams: Board Certified Hypnotherapist in Atlanta, GA
Rich Williams: Board Certified Hypnotherapist
CHT, NLP, LMT, CNMT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
My areas of expertise are anxiety disorders, pain management, depression, trauma recovery, PTSD/C-PTSD, ADHD, NLP, CBT, EFT, PLR, and alternative/energy medicine.
Are you feeling lost or stuck? I am passionate about making a real lasting difference in your life, and inspiring you to develop tools to move towards your goals in a flexible, gentle and supportive way. I approach the mind/body from an integrative and holistic point of view that combines eastern, western and energy medicine philosophies; my experience has shown that when this approach is used strategically you may heal the root causes and find deeply profound transformational healing. My goal is to help with any physical, mental, or emotional imbalance that may come up so that you can get back to living and loving life!
My areas of expertise are anxiety disorders, pain management, depression, trauma recovery, PTSD/C-PTSD, ADHD, NLP, CBT, EFT, PLR, and alternative/energy medicine.
Are you feeling lost or stuck? I am passionate about making a real lasting difference in your life, and inspiring you to develop tools to move towards your goals in a flexible, gentle and supportive way. I approach the mind/body from an integrative and holistic point of view that combines eastern, western and energy medicine philosophies; my experience has shown that when this approach is used strategically you may heal the root causes and find deeply profound transformational healing. My goal is to help with any physical, mental, or emotional imbalance that may come up so that you can get back to living and loving life!
(770) 525-9112 View (770) 525-9112
Photo of Soul Refreshed Therapy, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Soul Refreshed Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30349  (Online Only)
Dr. Ford has years of experience working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, mental health concerns related to physical illness (e.g. diabetes, cancer), weight management, trauma, and insomnia. He also enjoys working with couples and families.
Dr. Ford has years of experience working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, mental health concerns related to physical illness (e.g. diabetes, cancer), weight management, trauma, and insomnia. He also enjoys working with couples and families.
(678) 336-7569 View (678) 336-7569
Photo of Anjel Francisco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Anjel Francisco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30308
I am a coach and licensed psychotherapist committed to helping you identify your strengths and reach your goals. I work with clients facing a variety of challenges such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, grief & loss, life transitions, LGBTQ+ issues, poor self- esteem, and relationship problems. To adapt to the needs of each unique client, I utilize an eclectic approach to evidence-based treatment.
I am a coach and licensed psychotherapist committed to helping you identify your strengths and reach your goals. I work with clients facing a variety of challenges such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, grief & loss, life transitions, LGBTQ+ issues, poor self- esteem, and relationship problems. To adapt to the needs of each unique client, I utilize an eclectic approach to evidence-based treatment.
(678) 831-5673 View (678) 831-5673
Photo of Katie Huber-Rhoades, Pre-Licensed Professional in Atlanta, GA
Katie Huber-Rhoades
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30315
Waitlist for new clients
Hi. I'm Katie. My ultimate goal is to help people lead a more satisfying, conscious, and authentic existence. My clients are folks who embrace their humanness and gather the courage to work through the root cause of their pain and recognize how it is showing up in the present moment. We will work to help you establish safety within your body and your world by developing healthy coping skills and a deeper awareness of self. I work with adult individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, religious trauma, sexual abuse and associated trauma, grief and loss.
Hi. I'm Katie. My ultimate goal is to help people lead a more satisfying, conscious, and authentic existence. My clients are folks who embrace their humanness and gather the courage to work through the root cause of their pain and recognize how it is showing up in the present moment. We will work to help you establish safety within your body and your world by developing healthy coping skills and a deeper awareness of self. I work with adult individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, religious trauma, sexual abuse and associated trauma, grief and loss.
(470) 748-9649 View (470) 748-9649
Photo of Jack L Abernathy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Jack L Abernathy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCMHC, CPCS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
The pain you are feeling and thinking is not your fault and it is not a sign of weakness. You do not have to suffer. There is help AND there is hope. Our first hour together is free and you have time to ask questions, to see if you feel safe and comfortable working together. If this is your first time and you are a bit hesitant (as I was), or you feel therapy did not work before, I am here and happy to sit with you and answer your questions and help you find some peace.
The pain you are feeling and thinking is not your fault and it is not a sign of weakness. You do not have to suffer. There is help AND there is hope. Our first hour together is free and you have time to ask questions, to see if you feel safe and comfortable working together. If this is your first time and you are a bit hesitant (as I was), or you feel therapy did not work before, I am here and happy to sit with you and answer your questions and help you find some peace.
(678) 607-8281 View (678) 607-8281
Photo of Maureen A. Grady Morales, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Maureen A. Grady Morales
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
Currently featured in Atlanta Magazine, I can help you through a cutting edge neuropsychological approach to therapy. Emotional and physical pain are often interrelated. I am a trauma specialist who uses a combination of therapies to help you transform your life from not-so-good to great. I can help you calm the mind and the body, reducing anxiety laden symptoms. Advanced BrainSpotting, CBT, DBT, and Somatic Experiencing™ are tools that can really help move you forward from the inside out. Conveniently located in Buckhead and Brookhaven. Currently taking “Virtual” counseling patients through Zoom.
Currently featured in Atlanta Magazine, I can help you through a cutting edge neuropsychological approach to therapy. Emotional and physical pain are often interrelated. I am a trauma specialist who uses a combination of therapies to help you transform your life from not-so-good to great. I can help you calm the mind and the body, reducing anxiety laden symptoms. Advanced BrainSpotting, CBT, DBT, and Somatic Experiencing™ are tools that can really help move you forward from the inside out. Conveniently located in Buckhead and Brookhaven. Currently taking “Virtual” counseling patients through Zoom.
(678) 498-1576 View (678) 498-1576
Photo of Turnmeika Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Turnmeika Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTS-I, CMAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30308
Throughout life's journey, many people will or may have encountered some form of trauma, abuse, hurt, or pain. If that’s you, I want you also to know that it’s been me too. You’re Not Alone! I am passionate about working with Teens And Adults. I speak trauma, truth, and transparency. Allow me to walk with you along the journey and assist you in living and no longer existing.
Throughout life's journey, many people will or may have encountered some form of trauma, abuse, hurt, or pain. If that’s you, I want you also to know that it’s been me too. You’re Not Alone! I am passionate about working with Teens And Adults. I speak trauma, truth, and transparency. Allow me to walk with you along the journey and assist you in living and no longer existing.
(470) 468-2837 View (470) 468-2837
Photo of Sunflower Counseling Center in Atlanta, GA
Sunflower Counseling Center
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30360
We specialize in: Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Depression, PTSD, Grief, Chronic Pain/Illness, Faith-Based, Anger Management, Trauma, LGBTQ+, Personality Disorder, Parenting, Religion, Bipolar, Postpartum Depression, Career, Immigrants/Refugees and more.
Sunflower Counseling exists so that people seeking the highest quality of mental health services, at an affordable rate, can be counseled by professionals who train and specialize in multiple areas of mental health healing. Sunflower Counseling is committed to strengthening every individual, couple, child, and family in our community by providing care and therapeutic services to break the chains of mental and behavioral health stigmas.
We specialize in: Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Depression, PTSD, Grief, Chronic Pain/Illness, Faith-Based, Anger Management, Trauma, LGBTQ+, Personality Disorder, Parenting, Religion, Bipolar, Postpartum Depression, Career, Immigrants/Refugees and more.
Sunflower Counseling exists so that people seeking the highest quality of mental health services, at an affordable rate, can be counseled by professionals who train and specialize in multiple areas of mental health healing. Sunflower Counseling is committed to strengthening every individual, couple, child, and family in our community by providing care and therapeutic services to break the chains of mental and behavioral health stigmas.
(770) 746-6784 View (770) 746-6784
Photo of Barbara Lewison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Barbara Lewison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30322
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, &/or depressed? Are family issues, traumas, & mental health concerns affecting your relationships? Are you feeling numb or doing things to numb out intense feelings, emotional pain, or symptoms? Please have hope - you are not alone. Dedicated to my professional development for over 33 years, I'm motivated to help adults heal and recover from traumas, mental health & coexisting chronic medical issues, relationship conflicts & stressful life transitions. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, body-image & eating problems, chronic pain, chronic medical illnesses, & BFRBs,
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, &/or depressed? Are family issues, traumas, & mental health concerns affecting your relationships? Are you feeling numb or doing things to numb out intense feelings, emotional pain, or symptoms? Please have hope - you are not alone. Dedicated to my professional development for over 33 years, I'm motivated to help adults heal and recover from traumas, mental health & coexisting chronic medical issues, relationship conflicts & stressful life transitions. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, body-image & eating problems, chronic pain, chronic medical illnesses, & BFRBs,
(762) 214-2456 View (762) 214-2456
Photo of Berth Bartolin, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Berth Bartolin
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308  (Online Only)
My expertise has allowed me to work with individuals from the African Diaspora, immigrant communities, various cultures, military and those diagnosed with chronic illness.
One step, one step. So, this is a phrase I often say. I use it as a reminder that we will move forward, heal, achieve our goals one step, one moment at a time. If we feel or see ourselves slip back....we reset. We move forward again one step, one step.
My expertise has allowed me to work with individuals from the African Diaspora, immigrant communities, various cultures, military and those diagnosed with chronic illness.
One step, one step. So, this is a phrase I often say. I use it as a reminder that we will move forward, heal, achieve our goals one step, one moment at a time. If we feel or see ourselves slip back....we reset. We move forward again one step, one step.
(706) 707-5040 View (706) 707-5040
Photo of Marnie Ellis Fulton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Marnie Ellis Fulton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPRP, MAC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30319
I'm passionate about working collaboratively with all of my clients, especially: clients of all ages with autoimmune, other chronic or potential life-limiting illness; teens/college students and parents with concerns related to academic and/or behavioral issues and in strengthening relationships; clients with mood, anxiety and addiction issues; clients with grief and loss issues and clients contemplating separation and/or divorce. I can objectively mediate a separation or divorce to each parties satisfaction.
I'm passionate about working collaboratively with all of my clients, especially: clients of all ages with autoimmune, other chronic or potential life-limiting illness; teens/college students and parents with concerns related to academic and/or behavioral issues and in strengthening relationships; clients with mood, anxiety and addiction issues; clients with grief and loss issues and clients contemplating separation and/or divorce. I can objectively mediate a separation or divorce to each parties satisfaction.
(404) 643-9889 View (404) 643-9889
Photo of Madison Bentley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Madison Bentley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30301  (Online Only)
Charlotte Newman Charfen, MD in which he uses these skills in addition to his clinical skills to work with anyone experiencing chronic illness.
In addition to his private practice where he treats child/adolescents/adults, Madison was the Clinical Director at Hope House of Augusta’s Women’s Residential and Intensive Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment Center from September 11, 2016 to February 9, 2020, where patients received treatment for substance use and mental health disorders. Madison has a Master’s in Psychology and Counseling from Troy Alabama University and is a National Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor in the State of Georgia where he provides clinical supervision for Master's level post-graduates.
Charlotte Newman Charfen, MD in which he uses these skills in addition to his clinical skills to work with anyone experiencing chronic illness.
In addition to his private practice where he treats child/adolescents/adults, Madison was the Clinical Director at Hope House of Augusta’s Women’s Residential and Intensive Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment Center from September 11, 2016 to February 9, 2020, where patients received treatment for substance use and mental health disorders. Madison has a Master’s in Psychology and Counseling from Troy Alabama University and is a National Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor in the State of Georgia where he provides clinical supervision for Master's level post-graduates.
(706) 637-2075 View (706) 637-2075
Photo of Megan Kuder, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Megan Kuder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30318
We all get in a rut from time to time and need some help walking towards health and wholeness again. I specialize in helping women and couples navigate issues related to anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, pregnancy/postpartum, life transitions and grief so that they can attain a greater sense of peace, hope and courage to live their life well. I help couples who are in need of help navigating complexities of relationship through building healthy communication & conflict resolution skills while exploring and facilitating healing in root areas of pain in a warm and directive environment.
We all get in a rut from time to time and need some help walking towards health and wholeness again. I specialize in helping women and couples navigate issues related to anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, pregnancy/postpartum, life transitions and grief so that they can attain a greater sense of peace, hope and courage to live their life well. I help couples who are in need of help navigating complexities of relationship through building healthy communication & conflict resolution skills while exploring and facilitating healing in root areas of pain in a warm and directive environment.
(678) 846-9484 View (678) 846-9484
Photo of Katlyn Elizabeth Chambers, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Katlyn Elizabeth Chambers
Counselor, LAPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
While the journey of healing is a nebulous thing, I believe we are built to do it. We can uncover who we truly are and live out of that place with love. No matter what pain you carry, you can learn to carry it well. There are no easy answers in life and I won't try to give you them. But I will help you hold the beautiful tension of your life with confidence.
While the journey of healing is a nebulous thing, I believe we are built to do it. We can uncover who we truly are and live out of that place with love. No matter what pain you carry, you can learn to carry it well. There are no easy answers in life and I won't try to give you them. But I will help you hold the beautiful tension of your life with confidence.
(404) 738-9623 View (404) 738-9623
Photo of Heather Brooke, LPC, llc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Heather Brooke, LPC, llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30301
I work with individuals, couples, families and groups, specializing in anxiety, trauma, codependency, self-esteem, narcissistic abuse recovery, couples counseling, premarital counseling, Christian counseling and family issues. I am an award-winning author of the book, "Where's My Hair? A Trichotillomania Story for Children" and founder of My Pain His Purpose Ministries. If you are located in CO, TN or GA and have found yourself in unhealthy relationships, experience high levels of anxiety, have experienced recent or past trauma, struggle with self-esteem or self-worth, relationship issues or need premarital counseling, I can help.
I work with individuals, couples, families and groups, specializing in anxiety, trauma, codependency, self-esteem, narcissistic abuse recovery, couples counseling, premarital counseling, Christian counseling and family issues. I am an award-winning author of the book, "Where's My Hair? A Trichotillomania Story for Children" and founder of My Pain His Purpose Ministries. If you are located in CO, TN or GA and have found yourself in unhealthy relationships, experience high levels of anxiety, have experienced recent or past trauma, struggle with self-esteem or self-worth, relationship issues or need premarital counseling, I can help.
(731) 318-5496 View (731) 318-5496
Photo of Sarah S Pannell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Sarah S Pannell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30318  (Online Only)
I am psychotherapist with more than a decade of experience helping clients to to work through their pain so they are free to live the lives they were made to live.
Do you feel like no matter what you do, it's never enough? You try & try but no matter what others may see or say, underneath it, you're struggling? Maybe something happened & you can't move forward despite all your efforts to do so. Maybe you've been trying to conceive or you're struggling after baby arrives. Maybe you're struggling with your body or your relationship with food. Maybe life just feels overwhelming. You are NOT alone. The decision to enter therapy is a courageous one- a decision to get the support you need and deserve so you can move towards your goals and become more of who you authentically are!
I am psychotherapist with more than a decade of experience helping clients to to work through their pain so they are free to live the lives they were made to live.
Do you feel like no matter what you do, it's never enough? You try & try but no matter what others may see or say, underneath it, you're struggling? Maybe something happened & you can't move forward despite all your efforts to do so. Maybe you've been trying to conceive or you're struggling after baby arrives. Maybe you're struggling with your body or your relationship with food. Maybe life just feels overwhelming. You are NOT alone. The decision to enter therapy is a courageous one- a decision to get the support you need and deserve so you can move towards your goals and become more of who you authentically are!
(678) 883-7539 View (678) 883-7539
Photo of Alena Porter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Alena Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30304  (Online Only)
I have experience with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, chronic pain, sexual issues, sexual trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, substance use, and grief and loss.
Do you wish you had someone to talk to who won't judge you? Do you try to talk to your friends but they only half listen or push their own agenda? Are you hiding part of yourself because you are afraid of what people will think or say? Do you feel anxious or distracted? Does your mind race all the time? Do you feel sad or like you don't care anymore? Do you just wish someone could help you straighten out your thoughts? Do you have issues from your past that are affecting your present? Do you just wish you liked yourself more? Do you just want someone you can talk to about anything? Send me an email and hopefully we can work together
I have experience with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, chronic pain, sexual issues, sexual trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, substance use, and grief and loss.
Do you wish you had someone to talk to who won't judge you? Do you try to talk to your friends but they only half listen or push their own agenda? Are you hiding part of yourself because you are afraid of what people will think or say? Do you feel anxious or distracted? Does your mind race all the time? Do you feel sad or like you don't care anymore? Do you just wish someone could help you straighten out your thoughts? Do you have issues from your past that are affecting your present? Do you just wish you liked yourself more? Do you just want someone you can talk to about anything? Send me an email and hopefully we can work together
(762) 583-8672 View (762) 583-8672
Photo of Moore Consulting LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Moore Consulting LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
I provide tools to transform and transmute pain.
Are you ready for change? Are you ready to live the life you are meant to live? To transform the old self, you have to gain awareness. I want you to get to know all your parts and to shine a light on the shadows that hold you back, I know you can heal your life when you make that decision and have focused discipline to take action to discover your greatness. Don't know where to start? We will start right where you are today. I use the Enneagram, Ayurveda, and Internal Family Systems along with honesty to get you on track. I will show you how you can heal and become whole again. You really can have what you want.
I provide tools to transform and transmute pain.
Are you ready for change? Are you ready to live the life you are meant to live? To transform the old self, you have to gain awareness. I want you to get to know all your parts and to shine a light on the shadows that hold you back, I know you can heal your life when you make that decision and have focused discipline to take action to discover your greatness. Don't know where to start? We will start right where you are today. I use the Enneagram, Ayurveda, and Internal Family Systems along with honesty to get you on track. I will show you how you can heal and become whole again. You really can have what you want.
(831) 231-1355 View (831) 231-1355
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.