Photo of Bridget Batcheller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrimac, MA
Bridget Batcheller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Merrimac, MA 01860
Being vulnerable and going to therapy can be scary, but I'm glad you're here. I believe that everyone needs a safe space to work through their thoughts, emotions, and feelings, and should be able to do so without fear of judgment. My experience as a therapist includes working with teens, younger adults, and older adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, and general stress in their life. I believe transparency is very important to the therapeutic relationship and allows both the individual and the therapist to build trust with one another.
Being vulnerable and going to therapy can be scary, but I'm glad you're here. I believe that everyone needs a safe space to work through their thoughts, emotions, and feelings, and should be able to do so without fear of judgment. My experience as a therapist includes working with teens, younger adults, and older adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, and general stress in their life. I believe transparency is very important to the therapeutic relationship and allows both the individual and the therapist to build trust with one another.
(351) 200-9974 View (351) 200-9974

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of William Roy Newman Licensed Psychologist 40 Years, Psychologist in Merrimac, MA
William Roy Newman Licensed Psychologist 40 Years
Psychologist, MDiv, LCSW, DMin, psychol
Verified Verified
Newburyport, MA 01950
Dr. William R. Newman, a licensed psychologist for years, specializes in the treatment of complex developmental trauma with dissociation. Dr. Newman's treatment of anxiety, depression, and trauma, will help you alleviate your symptoms and causes of your distress. Couples and families will improve their relationships by effectively communicating and increasing their understanding of each other's needs. You will learn to communicate from your true/highest/spirit/soul SELF with LOVE, and compassion. Dr. Newman helps you help yourself with self-leadership to increase your consciousness/awareness to make the best and healthiest choices for all parts of you and your relationships.
Dr. William R. Newman, a licensed psychologist for years, specializes in the treatment of complex developmental trauma with dissociation. Dr. Newman's treatment of anxiety, depression, and trauma, will help you alleviate your symptoms and causes of your distress. Couples and families will improve their relationships by effectively communicating and increasing their understanding of each other's needs. You will learn to communicate from your true/highest/spirit/soul SELF with LOVE, and compassion. Dr. Newman helps you help yourself with self-leadership to increase your consciousness/awareness to make the best and healthiest choices for all parts of you and your relationships.
(978) 391-9987 View (978) 391-9987
Photo of Brandon Rollins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrimac, MA
Brandon Rollins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newbury, MA 01951  (Online Only)
As a therapist who was born blind, I recognize that coping with discrimination negatively impacts our mental health, and that naming and challenging these outside forces in therapy can lead to self-empowerment and healing. I focus on addressing diagnoses such as post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression with particular focus on teens, young adults, and first responders.
As a therapist who was born blind, I recognize that coping with discrimination negatively impacts our mental health, and that naming and challenging these outside forces in therapy can lead to self-empowerment and healing. I focus on addressing diagnoses such as post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression with particular focus on teens, young adults, and first responders.
(508) 252-8949 View (508) 252-8949
Photo of Diane C Dubin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrimac, MA
Diane C Dubin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newburyport, MA 01950
I have been in the mental health field for over 30 years practicing in a variety of settings. My current interests have evolved after years of working with adolescent females and adult women, followed by years of working with troubled families where I became aware of the prevalence of and impact from various kinds of trauma. Depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relational issues and living with and healing from trauma are areas of my expertise.
I have been in the mental health field for over 30 years practicing in a variety of settings. My current interests have evolved after years of working with adolescent females and adult women, followed by years of working with troubled families where I became aware of the prevalence of and impact from various kinds of trauma. Depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relational issues and living with and healing from trauma are areas of my expertise.
(978) 716-2814 View (978) 716-2814
Photo of Carol Sutcliffe, Counselor in Merrimac, MA
Carol Sutcliffe
Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Methuen, MA 01844
Change is an integral part of life. At some point or other, we all face changes. Changes can be very difficult. I strive to help my clients to identify and understand their needs and steps they can take to begin to promote positive change in their lives. I work with people who are facing challenges in their relationships, with their jobs, with managing their weight and coping with anxiety. I enjoy working with all ages, and in particular focus on adolescents and adults. I have access to medication providers who may also be able to assist you with your coping skills and change process.
Change is an integral part of life. At some point or other, we all face changes. Changes can be very difficult. I strive to help my clients to identify and understand their needs and steps they can take to begin to promote positive change in their lives. I work with people who are facing challenges in their relationships, with their jobs, with managing their weight and coping with anxiety. I enjoy working with all ages, and in particular focus on adolescents and adults. I have access to medication providers who may also be able to assist you with your coping skills and change process.
(978) 794-9968 View (978) 794-9968
Photo of Kelley Griffin, Counselor in Merrimac, MA
Kelley Griffin
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Amesbury, MA 01913  (Online Only)
I have openings on Thursday and Friday via telehealth. Are you feeling discouraged? Stressed out all the time? Dreading the day ahead before it begins? You know something has to change, but change is difficult. I help people discover what is standing in their way of getting what they want out of life. Therapy works to help people realize their authentic selves and empowers them to make the choices that lead to a more satisfying life. Haven't you suffered long enough? Let's get started.
I have openings on Thursday and Friday via telehealth. Are you feeling discouraged? Stressed out all the time? Dreading the day ahead before it begins? You know something has to change, but change is difficult. I help people discover what is standing in their way of getting what they want out of life. Therapy works to help people realize their authentic selves and empowers them to make the choices that lead to a more satisfying life. Haven't you suffered long enough? Let's get started.
(978) 631-2551 View (978) 631-2551
Photo of Hope Rukundo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Merrimac, MA
Hope Rukundo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haverhill, MA 01830
Are you tired of living with the constant weight of anxiety, trauma, or depression? As an experienced mental health therapist, I specialize in treating adolescents and adults who are seeking a solution that goes beyond simply managing symptoms. My ideal client is someone who yearns for lasting change, an opportunity to delve deep into the root causes of their mental health struggles. I understand that you're not just looking for a quick fix or a temporary Band-Aid. You want a therapist who can guide you towards a path of healing, helping you address the core issues that hold you back from living your best life.
Are you tired of living with the constant weight of anxiety, trauma, or depression? As an experienced mental health therapist, I specialize in treating adolescents and adults who are seeking a solution that goes beyond simply managing symptoms. My ideal client is someone who yearns for lasting change, an opportunity to delve deep into the root causes of their mental health struggles. I understand that you're not just looking for a quick fix or a temporary Band-Aid. You want a therapist who can guide you towards a path of healing, helping you address the core issues that hold you back from living your best life.
(351) 300-4476 View (351) 300-4476
Photo of Kristen L Walker, Counselor in Merrimac, MA
Kristen L Walker
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, MLADC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Haverhill, MA 01832  (Online Only)
Throughout our lives, we all need someone to listen and help guide us. Life provides us many significant successes and challenges and it is easy to feel overwhelmed. We all need to know, and sometimes to be reminded, that we are all worthy of happiness, respect, compassion and love. It is not always easy navigating relationships and understanding one's self-worth. I support individuals, couples and families explore and navigate through challenges of mental health and substance use. Our personal journeys are our own. Living with mental health and/or substance use challenges takes resilience and courage. I am licensed in NH and MA.
Throughout our lives, we all need someone to listen and help guide us. Life provides us many significant successes and challenges and it is easy to feel overwhelmed. We all need to know, and sometimes to be reminded, that we are all worthy of happiness, respect, compassion and love. It is not always easy navigating relationships and understanding one's self-worth. I support individuals, couples and families explore and navigate through challenges of mental health and substance use. Our personal journeys are our own. Living with mental health and/or substance use challenges takes resilience and courage. I am licensed in NH and MA.
(603) 657-0657 View (603) 657-0657
Photo of Laurie J Sullivan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrimac, MA
Laurie J Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Methuen, MA 01844
Not accepting new clients
I often work with stress reduction, mindfulness, and relaxation training, using mind-body integrated techniques for issues including anxiety, PTSD, OCD, panic, and chronic pain.
"Life is not what it's supposed to be. It's what it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference", as Virginia Satir said. My job is to help people explore their capacity for change, for strength, tolerance and insight. I am a long-experienced, licensed psychotherapist with a relaxed, supportive approach. Whether for managing mood disorders, or situational stress, grief or confusion, I tailor efforts for each individual client to help gain perspective and learn techniques and coping strengths for whatever life dishes out.
I often work with stress reduction, mindfulness, and relaxation training, using mind-body integrated techniques for issues including anxiety, PTSD, OCD, panic, and chronic pain.
"Life is not what it's supposed to be. It's what it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference", as Virginia Satir said. My job is to help people explore their capacity for change, for strength, tolerance and insight. I am a long-experienced, licensed psychotherapist with a relaxed, supportive approach. Whether for managing mood disorders, or situational stress, grief or confusion, I tailor efforts for each individual client to help gain perspective and learn techniques and coping strengths for whatever life dishes out.
(978) 525-0695 x108 View (978) 525-0695 x108
Photo of Annette Berson-Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrimac, MA
Annette Berson-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amesbury, MA 01913
Not accepting new clients
Are you going through a life transition? Have you experienced a traumatic event, past abuse, a significant loss, or experiencing a difficult time in your life? Do you want to break down those roadblocks that have prevented you from being the person you always wanted to be, but let someone or something get in the way of your dreams and goals?
Are you going through a life transition? Have you experienced a traumatic event, past abuse, a significant loss, or experiencing a difficult time in your life? Do you want to break down those roadblocks that have prevented you from being the person you always wanted to be, but let someone or something get in the way of your dreams and goals?
(978) 636-3296 View (978) 636-3296
Photo of Reen Kemmerer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrimac, MA
Reen Kemmerer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newburyport, MA 01950
Not accepting new clients
It is my belief that our inherent most natural state is that of joy and well-being. I believe this to be true of everyone. Our life experiences and the beliefs that result often serve to distance us from our innate wholeness contributing to suffering. I see my role as a therapist as joining with you and facilitating your return to wellness through a variety of mind/body approaches. My goal is to meet you where you are and offer guidance as you process,gain insight,and release any obstacles between you and your capacity for living a wholehearted life.
It is my belief that our inherent most natural state is that of joy and well-being. I believe this to be true of everyone. Our life experiences and the beliefs that result often serve to distance us from our innate wholeness contributing to suffering. I see my role as a therapist as joining with you and facilitating your return to wellness through a variety of mind/body approaches. My goal is to meet you where you are and offer guidance as you process,gain insight,and release any obstacles between you and your capacity for living a wholehearted life.
(978) 290-4163 View (978) 290-4163
Photo of Debra Lucey-Maynard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrimac, MA
Debra Lucey-Maynard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Haverhill, MA 01832  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am honored to support individuals/families that have struggles that they are motivated to overcome. It is normal for us all to struggle from time to time. Many of us have endured trauma in the past and it can be a challenge to feel peace and/or joy again. Trauma focused therapy can provide a safe outlet for you to explore your concerns and learn or strengthen coping skills as you continue to find healing. I believe that everyone has struggles in their lives. Many of us are touched by trauma and work hard to get through necessary activities during our day to day life. I feel we can all change and grow at any point in our life.
I am honored to support individuals/families that have struggles that they are motivated to overcome. It is normal for us all to struggle from time to time. Many of us have endured trauma in the past and it can be a challenge to feel peace and/or joy again. Trauma focused therapy can provide a safe outlet for you to explore your concerns and learn or strengthen coping skills as you continue to find healing. I believe that everyone has struggles in their lives. Many of us are touched by trauma and work hard to get through necessary activities during our day to day life. I feel we can all change and grow at any point in our life.
(978) 341-3859 View (978) 341-3859

Online Therapists

Photo of Phuong L. Do, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrimac, MA
Phuong L. Do
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Counseling can help with providing tools to support empowerment through learning about oneself, working through the past, present pain, and identify effective communication skills.
Are you feeling stuck, isolated, or just overwhelmed by life? You are here, so you have already taken the first important step. I welcome the opportunity to help you make the right adjustments to improve your quality of life. With a non-judgmental approach, I will listen and guide you toward accessing your internal strengths, to help weather your life's storm. Let's work together to create a path that will lead you to greater self-awareness and a better you.
Counseling can help with providing tools to support empowerment through learning about oneself, working through the past, present pain, and identify effective communication skills.
Are you feeling stuck, isolated, or just overwhelmed by life? You are here, so you have already taken the first important step. I welcome the opportunity to help you make the right adjustments to improve your quality of life. With a non-judgmental approach, I will listen and guide you toward accessing your internal strengths, to help weather your life's storm. Let's work together to create a path that will lead you to greater self-awareness and a better you.
(860) 847-8894 View (860) 847-8894
Photo of Paul Harris Sandman, Counselor in Merrimac, MA
Paul Harris Sandman
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
(774) 768-0617 View (774) 768-0617
Photo of George Beilin, Psychologist in Merrimac, MA
George Beilin
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915
I am a seasoned, licensed psychologist who specializes in the treatment of people experiencing life/career stress, chronic pain, substance abuse, anxiety and/or depression. I treat adults, couples and families. I was the Chief Psychologist for the Lahey Pain Management Center in Danvers, Mass for 5 years and led a free chronic pain support group at Lahey- Beverly Hospital for 7 year.s I have written 2 books (one second edition), have had an American Psychological Association certificate for treating people with mixed substance use/abuse-dependence and am on the allied health courtesy staff at BI-Lahey-Beverly Hospital.
I am a seasoned, licensed psychologist who specializes in the treatment of people experiencing life/career stress, chronic pain, substance abuse, anxiety and/or depression. I treat adults, couples and families. I was the Chief Psychologist for the Lahey Pain Management Center in Danvers, Mass for 5 years and led a free chronic pain support group at Lahey- Beverly Hospital for 7 year.s I have written 2 books (one second edition), have had an American Psychological Association certificate for treating people with mixed substance use/abuse-dependence and am on the allied health courtesy staff at BI-Lahey-Beverly Hospital.
(978) 910-0154 View (978) 910-0154
Irene H Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Westhampton, MA 01027  (Online Only)
These techniques can be used for: anxiety, addiction, depression, panic attacks, pain management and weight loss.
My years of experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, clinical therapy. I provide supportive space to individuals, families, and couples. I specialize in treating people for anxiety, depression, recovery from trauma, grief, substance abuse, school phobia, learning disabilities and neurological and cognitive differences. As an adjunct to traditional talk therapy, I am certified in and use the following techniques to enhance treatment as needed: Clinical Hypnosis, Emotional Freedom Technique (Tapping) and ear acupressure as part of therapy sessions.
These techniques can be used for: anxiety, addiction, depression, panic attacks, pain management and weight loss.
My years of experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, clinical therapy. I provide supportive space to individuals, families, and couples. I specialize in treating people for anxiety, depression, recovery from trauma, grief, substance abuse, school phobia, learning disabilities and neurological and cognitive differences. As an adjunct to traditional talk therapy, I am certified in and use the following techniques to enhance treatment as needed: Clinical Hypnosis, Emotional Freedom Technique (Tapping) and ear acupressure as part of therapy sessions.
(413) 531-1943 View (413) 531-1943
Photo of Suzan Cahill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrimac, MA
Suzan Cahill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, MA 01803
My Ideal client: 36 yo male, divorced, with two children. The patient was incarcerated 16 years, due to drug addiction/trafficking. He spent his early childhood living with his mother and father, who sexually abused him. They were also addicted to drugs due to their childhood experiences of being abused. The patient's parents also prostituted him in exchange for drugs for others. The patient turned to drugs to escape the pain, embarrassment, and overall trauma from his childhood. He now wants sobriety and to overcome his trauma, which includes flashbacks and negative self-image, self-hatred, and hatred of his parents.
My Ideal client: 36 yo male, divorced, with two children. The patient was incarcerated 16 years, due to drug addiction/trafficking. He spent his early childhood living with his mother and father, who sexually abused him. They were also addicted to drugs due to their childhood experiences of being abused. The patient's parents also prostituted him in exchange for drugs for others. The patient turned to drugs to escape the pain, embarrassment, and overall trauma from his childhood. He now wants sobriety and to overcome his trauma, which includes flashbacks and negative self-image, self-hatred, and hatred of his parents.
(339) 215-8112 View (339) 215-8112
Photo of Suzan Cahill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrimac, MA
Suzan Cahill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Watertown, MA 02472
My Ideal client: 36 yo male, divorced, with two children. The patient was incarcerated 16 years, due to drug addiction/trafficking. He spent his early childhood living with his mother and father, who sexually abused him. They were also addicted to drugs due to their childhood experiences of being abused. The patient's parents also prostituted him in exchange for drugs for others. The patient turned to drugs to escape the pain, embarrassment, and overall trauma from his childhood. He now wants sobriety and to overcome his trauma, which includes flashbacks and negative self-image, self-hatred, and hatred of his parents.
My Ideal client: 36 yo male, divorced, with two children. The patient was incarcerated 16 years, due to drug addiction/trafficking. He spent his early childhood living with his mother and father, who sexually abused him. They were also addicted to drugs due to their childhood experiences of being abused. The patient's parents also prostituted him in exchange for drugs for others. The patient turned to drugs to escape the pain, embarrassment, and overall trauma from his childhood. He now wants sobriety and to overcome his trauma, which includes flashbacks and negative self-image, self-hatred, and hatred of his parents.
(857) 367-1689 View (857) 367-1689
Photo of Bonnie Cannon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrimac, MA
Bonnie Cannon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Andover, MA 01810  (Online Only)
My background includes working with patients with Anxiety, Depression, Life Stressors, Complex PTSD, PTSD, Life Transitions, Grief/Loss and Chronic Illness.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker providing individual counseling to the young adult, adult and older adult populations. I will provide a supportive, safe, non-judgmental space for you where you to feel seen and heard. I believe in meeting you where you’re at and to support you in obtaining the goals that are important to you. I will do that by providing space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings where you will be met with empathy, compassion and understanding. My focus is person centered and strengths based. I believe that therapy is a collaboration and that it should be a good fit for both of us.
My background includes working with patients with Anxiety, Depression, Life Stressors, Complex PTSD, PTSD, Life Transitions, Grief/Loss and Chronic Illness.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker providing individual counseling to the young adult, adult and older adult populations. I will provide a supportive, safe, non-judgmental space for you where you to feel seen and heard. I believe in meeting you where you’re at and to support you in obtaining the goals that are important to you. I will do that by providing space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings where you will be met with empathy, compassion and understanding. My focus is person centered and strengths based. I believe that therapy is a collaboration and that it should be a good fit for both of us.
(508) 501-0545 View (508) 501-0545
Photo of Synergy Wellness Center, Counselor in Merrimac, MA
Synergy Wellness Center
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hudson, MA 01749
Synergy's clinical team has the following specialties and can assist you with: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Chronic Pain/Illness, Addiction, Relationship Issues, Parenting Concerns, Identity Exploration, Grief/Bereavement, Life Review, Academic and Career Transitions, Racial Identity Development, Racial Trauma.
Synergy Wellness Center supports the emotional, physical, and spiritual health of wellness seekers, with a distinct focus on caregiver support. Whether you are caring for loved ones, or are a caregiver by profession, Synergy offers an array of services customized to your individualized needs, including acupuncture, massage therapy, reflexology, yoga, energy healing, mental health counseling, life coaching, nutritional counseling, essential oils, speech/language consultations, inspiring workshops, and corporate wellness programs. Our team serves adults, youth, couples, and families,. We look forward to serving you at Synergy.
Synergy's clinical team has the following specialties and can assist you with: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Chronic Pain/Illness, Addiction, Relationship Issues, Parenting Concerns, Identity Exploration, Grief/Bereavement, Life Review, Academic and Career Transitions, Racial Identity Development, Racial Trauma.
Synergy Wellness Center supports the emotional, physical, and spiritual health of wellness seekers, with a distinct focus on caregiver support. Whether you are caring for loved ones, or are a caregiver by profession, Synergy offers an array of services customized to your individualized needs, including acupuncture, massage therapy, reflexology, yoga, energy healing, mental health counseling, life coaching, nutritional counseling, essential oils, speech/language consultations, inspiring workshops, and corporate wellness programs. Our team serves adults, youth, couples, and families,. We look forward to serving you at Synergy.
(978) 310-3740 View (978) 310-3740

See more therapy options for Merrimac

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.