Photo of Ephphatha 'Be Opened' Consulting Services, Inc., Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ephphatha 'Be Opened' Consulting Services, Inc.
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LMHC, CCMHC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625  (Online Only)
Clients that come to me for issues regarding their dissatisfaction with their progress on overcoming their challenges in life. Life issues range from traumatic experiences, LGBTQ issues, addictions & substance use disorders, spiritual problems, career problems, chronic illness, child & parenting issues as well as family imbalances. They want change and they want it with someone who can connect with them in real ways that help them know they are cared for, can be confident, and can overcome the challenges that confront them.
Clients that come to me for issues regarding their dissatisfaction with their progress on overcoming their challenges in life. Life issues range from traumatic experiences, LGBTQ issues, addictions & substance use disorders, spiritual problems, career problems, chronic illness, child & parenting issues as well as family imbalances. They want change and they want it with someone who can connect with them in real ways that help them know they are cared for, can be confident, and can overcome the challenges that confront them.
(312) 779-6973 View (312) 779-6973
Photo of Safe Place Counseling, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Safe Place Counseling
Counselor, LCSW, LCPC, LPC, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60609
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
(312) 374-6518 View (312) 374-6518
Photo of Sushma Cheturvedula, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Sushma Cheturvedula
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60629  (Online Only)
While supporting individuals as they face overwhelming distress and life circumstances, I find it valuable to explore a person’s history and the root causes that may be contributing to their existing pain and suffering.
There comes a time in each of our lives where we feel inadequate, anxious, depressed, heartbroken, lonely, confused, and in need of a helping hand. If your ultimate goal is to strengthen your emotional wellbeing, find peace with your past, and live the life you always wanted, you have found the right Therapist. Whatever is overwhelming you today, whether it’s a tough breakup, grief, abuse, work related stress, relationship issues, past trauma, or simply finding the motivation to get out of bed and have a productive day, help is a phone call away. My role is to listen, empower growth, and help you become the best version of yourself.
While supporting individuals as they face overwhelming distress and life circumstances, I find it valuable to explore a person’s history and the root causes that may be contributing to their existing pain and suffering.
There comes a time in each of our lives where we feel inadequate, anxious, depressed, heartbroken, lonely, confused, and in need of a helping hand. If your ultimate goal is to strengthen your emotional wellbeing, find peace with your past, and live the life you always wanted, you have found the right Therapist. Whatever is overwhelming you today, whether it’s a tough breakup, grief, abuse, work related stress, relationship issues, past trauma, or simply finding the motivation to get out of bed and have a productive day, help is a phone call away. My role is to listen, empower growth, and help you become the best version of yourself.
(773) 915-0573 View (773) 915-0573
Photo of Sarah Seebold, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Sarah Seebold
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
I have been able to work closely with children, adolescents, and adults to treat a wide variety of concerns ranging from mood and developmental disorders, chronic pain, substance abuse, trauma, hoarding, family stress, academic distress, and academic avoidance. I am dedicated to providing a safe environment for clients in the LGBTQIA+ community, those who hold multiple identities, and those who have a diverse cultural background. I strive to support others to examine how these identities may impact the way they interact with the world around them.
I have been able to work closely with children, adolescents, and adults to treat a wide variety of concerns ranging from mood and developmental disorders, chronic pain, substance abuse, trauma, hoarding, family stress, academic distress, and academic avoidance. I am dedicated to providing a safe environment for clients in the LGBTQIA+ community, those who hold multiple identities, and those who have a diverse cultural background. I strive to support others to examine how these identities may impact the way they interact with the world around them.
(708) 726-5534 View (708) 726-5534
Photo of Julleon Garrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Julleon Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than "illness."
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than "illness."
(312) 262-2473 View (312) 262-2473
Photo of Alejandro Garrido, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Alejandro Garrido
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60610  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, I have spent numerous years working with individuals, couples and families ranging from adolescence through adulthood, with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, stress management, PTSD, ADHD, adjustment to life changes and/or medical treatments, grief and loss issues; parenting concerns; couple issues; or problems coping with daily stress. If you have some of these concerns, you can experience emotional, mental and relational healing. I employ a collaborative, supportive and confidential approach to work together on your therapy goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, I have spent numerous years working with individuals, couples and families ranging from adolescence through adulthood, with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, stress management, PTSD, ADHD, adjustment to life changes and/or medical treatments, grief and loss issues; parenting concerns; couple issues; or problems coping with daily stress. If you have some of these concerns, you can experience emotional, mental and relational healing. I employ a collaborative, supportive and confidential approach to work together on your therapy goals.
(773) 570-1271 View (773) 570-1271
Photo of Joshua Boyd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Joshua Boyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
Even when life is seemingly going well, our thoughts and feelings can make our days and nights a struggle. Living with mental illness or going through a challenging time can be like there is an ever-looming cloud blocking us from feeling the sun. It is my belief that therapy can help us see and feel the light again. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral or personality issues, and abuse & trauma can make us feel like we’re alone and without hope. Therapy can be a place where you don’t have to go through life’s struggles alone and get to learn coping strategies and solutions.
Even when life is seemingly going well, our thoughts and feelings can make our days and nights a struggle. Living with mental illness or going through a challenging time can be like there is an ever-looming cloud blocking us from feeling the sun. It is my belief that therapy can help us see and feel the light again. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral or personality issues, and abuse & trauma can make us feel like we’re alone and without hope. Therapy can be a place where you don’t have to go through life’s struggles alone and get to learn coping strategies and solutions.
(773) 830-3374 View (773) 830-3374
Photo of Olena Burger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Olena Burger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CYT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606
My most profound work and calling has been helping my clients navigate the mental health and well-being of chronic illness, trauma, stress, and infertility.
I offer a compassionate and client-centered approach to therapy that utilizes both holistic and evidence-based practices to help my clients have all the tools they need to make meaningful and inspiring life choices for themselves. I am certified with 200 hours of specialized training in Mindfulness and Yoga techniques and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy. I provide a safe, comfortable space to build client and therapist relationships so that client challenges can be addressed in an environment of trust and security. I help my clients find effective ways of coping with difficult life circumstances.
My most profound work and calling has been helping my clients navigate the mental health and well-being of chronic illness, trauma, stress, and infertility.
I offer a compassionate and client-centered approach to therapy that utilizes both holistic and evidence-based practices to help my clients have all the tools they need to make meaningful and inspiring life choices for themselves. I am certified with 200 hours of specialized training in Mindfulness and Yoga techniques and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy. I provide a safe, comfortable space to build client and therapist relationships so that client challenges can be addressed in an environment of trust and security. I help my clients find effective ways of coping with difficult life circumstances.
(331) 263-1602 View (331) 263-1602
Photo of Tara Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Tara Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
My professional background includes working with a wide variety of clients from children to older adults. I have provided mental health and substance abuse outpatient counseling including individual, group and family therapy. I have worked with a broad range of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, relationship problems, family conflict, mood disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, thinking disorders, codependency, domestic violence, self-esteem, women’s issues, spirituality, chronic illness, chronic pain, dual diagnosis, and addictions.
My professional background includes working with a wide variety of clients from children to older adults. I have provided mental health and substance abuse outpatient counseling including individual, group and family therapy. I have worked with a broad range of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, relationship problems, family conflict, mood disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, thinking disorders, codependency, domestic violence, self-esteem, women’s issues, spirituality, chronic illness, chronic pain, dual diagnosis, and addictions.
(618) 248-4604 View (618) 248-4604
Photo of Tony Fletcher, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Tony Fletcher
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
Fletcher conducts several types from Bariatric/Pain Stimulators, ADHD, Learning Disorders, Autism Spectrum, Traumatic Brain Injury, , Autism, Malingering, Personal Injury, PTSD, and others.
Dr. Tony Fletcher is a well-known and respected clinical neuropsychologist, licensed clinical psychologist and diplomate in forensic psychology with over 20 years of clinical and courtroom experience. His expertise is in various assessments (academic, learning disorders, TBI, forensic, psychiatric, emotional and cognitive) of children from the age of four to geriatric populations. Dr. Fletcher's therapeutic orientations are in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Fletcher conducts several types from Bariatric/Pain Stimulators, ADHD, Learning Disorders, Autism Spectrum, Traumatic Brain Injury, , Autism, Malingering, Personal Injury, PTSD, and others.
Dr. Tony Fletcher is a well-known and respected clinical neuropsychologist, licensed clinical psychologist and diplomate in forensic psychology with over 20 years of clinical and courtroom experience. His expertise is in various assessments (academic, learning disorders, TBI, forensic, psychiatric, emotional and cognitive) of children from the age of four to geriatric populations. Dr. Fletcher's therapeutic orientations are in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
(224) 261-7464 View (224) 261-7464
Photo of Rashid A. Raja, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Rashid A. Raja
Psychologist, PsyD, BCPC, HSPP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
THE SKYPE TREATMENT IS OFFERED AT EXTREMELY LOW FEE Emotional stress resulting from our own erroneous beliefs, problematic relationships, and stressful life circumstances can compromise our mental health. I firmly believe that my pragmatic therapeutic style and clinically proven treatment approaches can be highly instrumental in helping you learn effective ways to resolve your emotional pain, and develop practical skills and effective coping styles to ultimately take charge of your own mental health. The central focus of my practice is the treatment of Relationship Issues including Marital/Couples' Issues and Parent-Child Conflicts, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and Anger Control Problems.
THE SKYPE TREATMENT IS OFFERED AT EXTREMELY LOW FEE Emotional stress resulting from our own erroneous beliefs, problematic relationships, and stressful life circumstances can compromise our mental health. I firmly believe that my pragmatic therapeutic style and clinically proven treatment approaches can be highly instrumental in helping you learn effective ways to resolve your emotional pain, and develop practical skills and effective coping styles to ultimately take charge of your own mental health. The central focus of my practice is the treatment of Relationship Issues including Marital/Couples' Issues and Parent-Child Conflicts, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and Anger Control Problems.
(800) 994-8206 View (800) 994-8206
Photo of Dr. Cynthya Campbell Palmer, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Cynthya Campbell Palmer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60637  (Online Only)
I believe providing a safe space allows clients the opportunity to fully explore their emotional pain and discover ways to bring about healing.
Discover a life full of hope, healing and fulfillment! You have taken the first step on your journey toward living healthy and whole. Emotional wellness is an essential component of life. Many aspects of our lives are impacted by our mental health such as our relationships with family and friends, job performance, self-esteem and overall physical health. When our mental health difficulties go unaddressed, we face the risk of feeling hopeless, dissatisfied, emotionally drained and living an unfulfilled and inauthentic life. I would like to help you on your path to emotional health and wellness.
I believe providing a safe space allows clients the opportunity to fully explore their emotional pain and discover ways to bring about healing.
Discover a life full of hope, healing and fulfillment! You have taken the first step on your journey toward living healthy and whole. Emotional wellness is an essential component of life. Many aspects of our lives are impacted by our mental health such as our relationships with family and friends, job performance, self-esteem and overall physical health. When our mental health difficulties go unaddressed, we face the risk of feeling hopeless, dissatisfied, emotionally drained and living an unfulfilled and inauthentic life. I would like to help you on your path to emotional health and wellness.
(281) 780-5821 View (281) 780-5821
Photo of Jeremy Stern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jeremy Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60645
I do my best to focus on each patient's needs no matter how profound. We all deal with life difficulties, but it's how we strive and learn to approach them that helps us achieve positive growth. Whether you are coming from a tough childhood that has caused pain or things are now starting to become too hard to overcome alone...I am here to accompany you on the journey of healing. If you've made it to this page that is a huge step already...I hope you can continue to solidify what exactly you need to overcome what you're dealing with.
I do my best to focus on each patient's needs no matter how profound. We all deal with life difficulties, but it's how we strive and learn to approach them that helps us achieve positive growth. Whether you are coming from a tough childhood that has caused pain or things are now starting to become too hard to overcome alone...I am here to accompany you on the journey of healing. If you've made it to this page that is a huge step already...I hope you can continue to solidify what exactly you need to overcome what you're dealing with.
(832) 843-2339 View (832) 843-2339
Photo of Nelmar Health Centers, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Nelmar Health Centers
Psychologist, BS, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607
The current healthcare industry has failed many people living with chronic physical and mental health diseases. People are faced with a large push for psychiatric medication, misdiagnosis, and ​a one-dimensional approach to treatment. ​It is time for a more holistic, whole-body solution to people’s health. This is the pledge that Nelmar Health Centers have made. No matter what you are struggling with, Nelmar Health Centers can help you live a happier and healthier life. We offer comprehensive diagnostic measures, counseling, Neurotherapy, cognitive rehabilitation, dietary and herb management, yoga, and meditation under one roof.
The current healthcare industry has failed many people living with chronic physical and mental health diseases. People are faced with a large push for psychiatric medication, misdiagnosis, and ​a one-dimensional approach to treatment. ​It is time for a more holistic, whole-body solution to people’s health. This is the pledge that Nelmar Health Centers have made. No matter what you are struggling with, Nelmar Health Centers can help you live a happier and healthier life. We offer comprehensive diagnostic measures, counseling, Neurotherapy, cognitive rehabilitation, dietary and herb management, yoga, and meditation under one roof.
(630) 793-6483 View (630) 793-6483
Photo of Center for Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Center for Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Often, people come to us without having explored psychological concerns in a sophisticated way. If they had past therapy, they were at times disappointed that it did not go deeper, as it left the greater meaning (the "roots") of their symptoms unexplored. As psychodynamic therapists, however, our goal is to see comprehensively, with thoughtful attention to the subtle depths and intricacies of your experience. In so doing, we can help to both resolve symptoms and impart meaning to your experiences, even those thoughts, feelings, and emotions that are often deemed painful or meaningless.
Often, people come to us without having explored psychological concerns in a sophisticated way. If they had past therapy, they were at times disappointed that it did not go deeper, as it left the greater meaning (the "roots") of their symptoms unexplored. As psychodynamic therapists, however, our goal is to see comprehensively, with thoughtful attention to the subtle depths and intricacies of your experience. In so doing, we can help to both resolve symptoms and impart meaning to your experiences, even those thoughts, feelings, and emotions that are often deemed painful or meaningless.
(773) 492-8500 View (773) 492-8500
Photo of Michelle Robinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Michelle Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me! My ideal clients are looking for a strength-based approach where they are more than a "psychiatric diagnosis." My clients come from many backgrounds - they are children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families - and are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, women’s issues, anger management, ADHD, autistic spectrum disorder, addiction issues, couples therapy, and working through LGBTQ+ issues. I partner with my clients in the change process and empower them through using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and other tailored approaches.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me! My ideal clients are looking for a strength-based approach where they are more than a "psychiatric diagnosis." My clients come from many backgrounds - they are children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families - and are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, women’s issues, anger management, ADHD, autistic spectrum disorder, addiction issues, couples therapy, and working through LGBTQ+ issues. I partner with my clients in the change process and empower them through using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and other tailored approaches.
(312) 313-4413 View (312) 313-4413
Photo of Julie M Matija, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Julie M Matija
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Does it sometimes feel like you are not living the life you thought that you would? Or that you could be more content with your situation? Or perhaps you are having trouble making decisions about what to do next? If so, therapy can help you clarify what is important to you and what is causing you to feel stuck. I am happy to work together with you to better understand your past while also finding new ways of moving forward in a meaningful way.
Does it sometimes feel like you are not living the life you thought that you would? Or that you could be more content with your situation? Or perhaps you are having trouble making decisions about what to do next? If so, therapy can help you clarify what is important to you and what is causing you to feel stuck. I am happy to work together with you to better understand your past while also finding new ways of moving forward in a meaningful way.
(312) 241-1078 View (312) 241-1078
Photo of Ying Hsu, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ying Hsu
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661
Ying places a high priority on helping her clients overcome anxiety while developing a courageous and self-compassionate view of life. She enjoys helping each person discover how they can become their better self by discovering that they can do more than they ever believed possible, one step at a time. She uses the latest scientific approaches to anxiety, resilience building, and emotional self-regulation to help each client identify the beliefs, experiences, and challenges that make it difficult to overcome anxiety. She combines cognitive behavioral therapies, mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and ACT.
Ying places a high priority on helping her clients overcome anxiety while developing a courageous and self-compassionate view of life. She enjoys helping each person discover how they can become their better self by discovering that they can do more than they ever believed possible, one step at a time. She uses the latest scientific approaches to anxiety, resilience building, and emotional self-regulation to help each client identify the beliefs, experiences, and challenges that make it difficult to overcome anxiety. She combines cognitive behavioral therapies, mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and ACT.
(847) 242-2711 x18 View (847) 242-2711 x18
Photo of Anixter Center - Community Mental Health Services, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Anixter Center - Community Mental Health Services
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CCTP, CGCS, CYMHS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Our goal is to serve as your guide and walk with you on your life journey. We aim to help you overcome obstacles that may be holding you back from reaching your dreams, while providing you with healthy strategies to implement in your life outside of therapy. Whether exploring the past, present, or future; discussing coping strategies; processing stressful events; building resiliency; healing from trauma; creative problem-solving, or enhancing communication within your relationship. We serve an array of culturally diverse clients, including: children, adolescents, teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families.
Our goal is to serve as your guide and walk with you on your life journey. We aim to help you overcome obstacles that may be holding you back from reaching your dreams, while providing you with healthy strategies to implement in your life outside of therapy. Whether exploring the past, present, or future; discussing coping strategies; processing stressful events; building resiliency; healing from trauma; creative problem-solving, or enhancing communication within your relationship. We serve an array of culturally diverse clients, including: children, adolescents, teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families.
(773) 231-0870 View (773) 231-0870
Photo of Kathleen M Pendergast, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Kathleen M Pendergast
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
 My goal is to provide each client with an emotionally safe environment where they feel comfortable exploring even the biggest challenges, whether it is how to manage overwhelming emotions such as anxiety or depression, rebuild a more honest sense of identity, learn to recognize and fight unhealthy or toxic patterns in life & relationships, confront past trauma or abuse, or other flavors of struggle. Many of my clients battle mood disorders, daunting life transitions, relationship issues, as well as cultural issues, LGBTQ integration struggles, grief/loss, trauma, & body image discomfort/disordered eating.
 My goal is to provide each client with an emotionally safe environment where they feel comfortable exploring even the biggest challenges, whether it is how to manage overwhelming emotions such as anxiety or depression, rebuild a more honest sense of identity, learn to recognize and fight unhealthy or toxic patterns in life & relationships, confront past trauma or abuse, or other flavors of struggle. Many of my clients battle mood disorders, daunting life transitions, relationship issues, as well as cultural issues, LGBTQ integration struggles, grief/loss, trauma, & body image discomfort/disordered eating.
(773) 717-5538 View (773) 717-5538
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.