Photo of Taylor J Scott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Taylor J Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As someone who has had personal experiences with chronic pain, deconstructing religion and childhood trauma I have found a deeply rooted passion to be with others as they take the journey of self-awareness and personal transformation.
I provide a unique and practical approach to therapy that focuses on integrating the spiritual, physical, and emotional parts of a person. This union reduces anxiety and increases confidence along with creativity. We deserve to live from the little fire in our souls, creating the life we not only deeply desire but the one we desperately need. I would love to journey alongside you as you take back your personal power!
As someone who has had personal experiences with chronic pain, deconstructing religion and childhood trauma I have found a deeply rooted passion to be with others as they take the journey of self-awareness and personal transformation.
I provide a unique and practical approach to therapy that focuses on integrating the spiritual, physical, and emotional parts of a person. This union reduces anxiety and increases confidence along with creativity. We deserve to live from the little fire in our souls, creating the life we not only deeply desire but the one we desperately need. I would love to journey alongside you as you take back your personal power!
(314) 501-9092 View (314) 501-9092
Photo of Shannon Clark, Psychologist in Saint Louis, MO
Shannon Clark
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
What's not working with your health and life goals? Do you suffer from pain and can't get a clear answer why? Do you find the motivation to stay healthy an impossible task with your busy schedule? Do difficult relationships or trauma make it hard to manage stress? It's time to do the deeper work.
What's not working with your health and life goals? Do you suffer from pain and can't get a clear answer why? Do you find the motivation to stay healthy an impossible task with your busy schedule? Do difficult relationships or trauma make it hard to manage stress? It's time to do the deeper work.
(314) 866-3957 View (314) 866-3957
Photo of Abigail Green, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Abigail Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Waitlist for new clients
Additionally, I have extensive experience helping individuals with complex, chronic pain and illness using EMDR and Pain Reprocessing therapy.
I have 20 years of experience helping people of diverse backgrounds to navigate through difficult times in their lives. I listen carefully and work hard to understand how you feel. I have hope that people can overcome depression, calm anxiety, be transformed through grief, and find their peaceful center in the midst of over-stimulation and busyness. I have extensive experience in working with couples, individuals with chronic pain and autoimmune disorders, and PTSD/complex trauma. My goal is to create space for you to explore yourself, your relationship with others, and work towards living a life of greater pleasure and meaning.
Additionally, I have extensive experience helping individuals with complex, chronic pain and illness using EMDR and Pain Reprocessing therapy.
I have 20 years of experience helping people of diverse backgrounds to navigate through difficult times in their lives. I listen carefully and work hard to understand how you feel. I have hope that people can overcome depression, calm anxiety, be transformed through grief, and find their peaceful center in the midst of over-stimulation and busyness. I have extensive experience in working with couples, individuals with chronic pain and autoimmune disorders, and PTSD/complex trauma. My goal is to create space for you to explore yourself, your relationship with others, and work towards living a life of greater pleasure and meaning.
(314) 730-9777 View (314) 730-9777
Photo of Open Arms Wellness - Ballwin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Open Arms Wellness - Ballwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Embark on a journey of compassionate care designed exclusively for you! Our Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializes in guiding individuals through the complexities of depression, anxiety, and treatment-resistant mental illness with a profound sense of empathy.
Struggling to connect with therapists and feeling unheard? Our commitment is to link you with skilled mental health therapists across various specialties in the greater St. Louis area, offering immediate openings. We empathize with your frustration and pride ourselves on matching you with a clinician who has a proven track record in addressing similar challenges. Our approach involves delving into the root of your concerns—we listen attentively, devising unique strategies that align with your passions to foster healing in your life. Witness a remarkable transformation when collaborating with our carefully chosen professionals.
Embark on a journey of compassionate care designed exclusively for you! Our Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializes in guiding individuals through the complexities of depression, anxiety, and treatment-resistant mental illness with a profound sense of empathy.
Struggling to connect with therapists and feeling unheard? Our commitment is to link you with skilled mental health therapists across various specialties in the greater St. Louis area, offering immediate openings. We empathize with your frustration and pride ourselves on matching you with a clinician who has a proven track record in addressing similar challenges. Our approach involves delving into the root of your concerns—we listen attentively, devising unique strategies that align with your passions to foster healing in your life. Witness a remarkable transformation when collaborating with our carefully chosen professionals.
(636) 942-6611 View (636) 942-6611
Photo of Laila Merz, Psychologist in Saint Louis, MO
Laila Merz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63124
Some of my specialty areas are Attachment- Based Issues, Anxiety and Depressive/ Mood Disorders, Addictions/Substance Abuse, Post Traumatic Disorders, Trauma, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Couples Therapy, Divorce, Women's Health Issues, Chronic Pain, Yoga, Somatic based Therapies, and Spirituality.
I went into the field of psychology because I love helping people transform to the best version of themselves. We all need a safe place to understand ourselves and how we relate to others/self. I often say "We need to be Mindful of our Total-Well Being and that our minds and our bodies are an inter-connected systems. Where the mind goes, so does the man or woman in their actions and body states. We go to the physician for our physical health, so how much healthier would we be if we went to our psychologist for our mental health?" At heart, I am a holistic practitioner and love seeing my clients Thrive.
Some of my specialty areas are Attachment- Based Issues, Anxiety and Depressive/ Mood Disorders, Addictions/Substance Abuse, Post Traumatic Disorders, Trauma, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Couples Therapy, Divorce, Women's Health Issues, Chronic Pain, Yoga, Somatic based Therapies, and Spirituality.
I went into the field of psychology because I love helping people transform to the best version of themselves. We all need a safe place to understand ourselves and how we relate to others/self. I often say "We need to be Mindful of our Total-Well Being and that our minds and our bodies are an inter-connected systems. Where the mind goes, so does the man or woman in their actions and body states. We go to the physician for our physical health, so how much healthier would we be if we went to our psychologist for our mental health?" At heart, I am a holistic practitioner and love seeing my clients Thrive.
(314) 485-4853 View (314) 485-4853
Photo of James P Ahearn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
James P Ahearn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, JD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63102
In our humanness we carry so much pain and doubt, anger and grief, and every other emotion possible.
The clients I serve are often at a crossroads in their life story and unsure of how to close one chapter and begin anew. Clients I enjoy working with recognize that counseling continues outside of the session in self reflection, exploring behavior change, and shifting how we think and relate to ourselves. I find that counseling helps meet goals and needs as diverse as the client, and sometimes goals arise throughout the course of the relationship. No one needs a "good reason" to come to counseling, for the desire to reach out and try will always be sufficient.
In our humanness we carry so much pain and doubt, anger and grief, and every other emotion possible.
The clients I serve are often at a crossroads in their life story and unsure of how to close one chapter and begin anew. Clients I enjoy working with recognize that counseling continues outside of the session in self reflection, exploring behavior change, and shifting how we think and relate to ourselves. I find that counseling helps meet goals and needs as diverse as the client, and sometimes goals arise throughout the course of the relationship. No one needs a "good reason" to come to counseling, for the desire to reach out and try will always be sufficient.
(314) 325-1594 View (314) 325-1594
Photo of The Candid Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
The Candid Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101  (Online Only)
I use a combination of solution focused and trauma informed approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR, to treat a wide range of emotional and behavioral problems including chronic pain/illness, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, law enforcement and military issues, veterans, LGBTQ issues, sex abuse, substance abuse, trauma and PTSD.
Change is hard and we are only motivated to change when we become uncomfortable with our current situation. Change also requires risk, commitment and hard work; I am looking for clients who are ready to take tangible steps towards change, personal growth, and mental health improvement using a telehealth platform that allows you to remain in the safety and comfort of your own environment, with no time wasted for travel. I’m accepting clients who reside in Missouri and flexible scheduling is offered. Call or email me for a free consultation to see if I’d be a good fit for you and your mental health goals.
I use a combination of solution focused and trauma informed approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR, to treat a wide range of emotional and behavioral problems including chronic pain/illness, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, law enforcement and military issues, veterans, LGBTQ issues, sex abuse, substance abuse, trauma and PTSD.
Change is hard and we are only motivated to change when we become uncomfortable with our current situation. Change also requires risk, commitment and hard work; I am looking for clients who are ready to take tangible steps towards change, personal growth, and mental health improvement using a telehealth platform that allows you to remain in the safety and comfort of your own environment, with no time wasted for travel. I’m accepting clients who reside in Missouri and flexible scheduling is offered. Call or email me for a free consultation to see if I’d be a good fit for you and your mental health goals.
(417) 302-3004 View (417) 302-3004
Photo of Steven R Buchheit, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Steven R Buchheit
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63127
Are you currently struggling and in pain? You're not alone.
Hello, I'm Steven Buchheit, a Licensed Professional Counselor, with 20 years of experience dedicated to guiding people toward healing and personal growth. My ideal client is someone who is motivated to heal and desires to cultivate presence in their life. I enjoy working with individuals who are seeking to deepen their self-awareness and enhance their relationships, both with themselves and others. I enjoy working with people who struggle in these areas. Through a compassionate somatic approach I seek to help my clients find self love and a deep sense of connection. People of all genders and sexual orientations are welcome.
Are you currently struggling and in pain? You're not alone.
Hello, I'm Steven Buchheit, a Licensed Professional Counselor, with 20 years of experience dedicated to guiding people toward healing and personal growth. My ideal client is someone who is motivated to heal and desires to cultivate presence in their life. I enjoy working with individuals who are seeking to deepen their self-awareness and enhance their relationships, both with themselves and others. I enjoy working with people who struggle in these areas. Through a compassionate somatic approach I seek to help my clients find self love and a deep sense of connection. People of all genders and sexual orientations are welcome.
(314) 742-7018 View (314) 742-7018
Photo of Alicia Seidler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Alicia Seidler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63129
I have worked in a variety of settings: Saint Louis County court, assisting victims of crime and those in domestic violence situations, Saint Louis City as the director of a psychiatric group home, serving those with addictions, severe mental illness, and homelessness, and now as the founder of a thriving business.
I seek to do whatever possible to help you feel safe in counseling. The relationship between you and I needs to be one that feels warm, inviting, non-judgmental, and encouraging. From the safety of this relationship, you can then feel supported enough to grieve what has been lost and push to fight for the things that have been taken from your life.
I have worked in a variety of settings: Saint Louis County court, assisting victims of crime and those in domestic violence situations, Saint Louis City as the director of a psychiatric group home, serving those with addictions, severe mental illness, and homelessness, and now as the founder of a thriving business.
I seek to do whatever possible to help you feel safe in counseling. The relationship between you and I needs to be one that feels warm, inviting, non-judgmental, and encouraging. From the safety of this relationship, you can then feel supported enough to grieve what has been lost and push to fight for the things that have been taken from your life.
(314) 696-6125 View (314) 696-6125
Photo of Claire Pfeifer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Claire Pfeifer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108  (Online Only)
Hi! Are you looking for a nonjudgmental space to process your feelings? Maybe emotions are overwhelming, and we need to take a step back and learn how to name and locate what you are feeling first. I work with clients of diverse backgrounds, sexual orientations, genders, and relationship structures. I specialize in assisting adults and couples to recognize and disrupt existing patterns learned throughout their lives, which can affect them in multiple ways. Additionally, I offer practical skills that can be applied immediately to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues, thereby improving overall functioning.
Hi! Are you looking for a nonjudgmental space to process your feelings? Maybe emotions are overwhelming, and we need to take a step back and learn how to name and locate what you are feeling first. I work with clients of diverse backgrounds, sexual orientations, genders, and relationship structures. I specialize in assisting adults and couples to recognize and disrupt existing patterns learned throughout their lives, which can affect them in multiple ways. Additionally, I offer practical skills that can be applied immediately to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues, thereby improving overall functioning.
(314) 207-9308 View (314) 207-9308
Photo of Open Arms Wellness Therapy and Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Open Arms Wellness Therapy and Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63144
Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back? We pride ourselves in finding expert clinicians in each speciality in the greater St. Louis area and we have openings. We can help match you to a clinician that has proven success helping clients with similar issues. Our approach assists clients in exploring the source of their problems. We listen. We find unique strategies that build on your passions to bring healing to your life. You won't believe how much better it can get when you work with our handpicked professionals.
Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back? We pride ourselves in finding expert clinicians in each speciality in the greater St. Louis area and we have openings. We can help match you to a clinician that has proven success helping clients with similar issues. Our approach assists clients in exploring the source of their problems. We listen. We find unique strategies that build on your passions to bring healing to your life. You won't believe how much better it can get when you work with our handpicked professionals.
(314) 648-8192 View (314) 648-8192
Photo of Coffee with Casey Counseling, Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Coffee with Casey Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63119
If you're tired of being stuck in an unsatisfying rut in this messy world-- your comeback story can start here. One cup at a time, we will use a holistic approach to help you become your best self. We can work together to help you live the abundant, rewarding life that is in store for you. Learn more at coffeewithcaseycounseling.com
If you're tired of being stuck in an unsatisfying rut in this messy world-- your comeback story can start here. One cup at a time, we will use a holistic approach to help you become your best self. We can work together to help you live the abundant, rewarding life that is in store for you. Learn more at coffeewithcaseycounseling.com
(314) 310-2951 View (314) 310-2951
Photo of Katelynn Armstrong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Katelynn Armstrong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, SEP, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
We might be a good match if you suspect that past experiences are affecting you, if you are seeking a deeper connection with yourself and others, or if you’ve tried other types of therapy but haven’t experienced lasting healing. I believe the body naturally wants to move toward healing and use this approach through my work with trauma, anxiety, and stress. I am passionate about equipping people to work through past, present, and future challenges and strive to be a peaceful and supportive presence in the process. I believe therapy is a place for laughter, tears, connection, and healing.
We might be a good match if you suspect that past experiences are affecting you, if you are seeking a deeper connection with yourself and others, or if you’ve tried other types of therapy but haven’t experienced lasting healing. I believe the body naturally wants to move toward healing and use this approach through my work with trauma, anxiety, and stress. I am passionate about equipping people to work through past, present, and future challenges and strive to be a peaceful and supportive presence in the process. I believe therapy is a place for laughter, tears, connection, and healing.
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Photo of Growth Mindset & Wellness Therapy of St.Louis, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Growth Mindset & Wellness Therapy of St.Louis, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141  (Online Only)
I have immediate openings available for Telehealth (virtual) sessions, so please email me today and we can get started this week! I have worked with many populations but have focused my practice on providing individual therapy to children, teens and young adults in need of support and education on developing healthy coping skills. I work with individuals who are struggling with managing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, grief, emotional regulation, self-esteem, social skills and relationships, among other DSM diagnosis and symptom presentation.
I have immediate openings available for Telehealth (virtual) sessions, so please email me today and we can get started this week! I have worked with many populations but have focused my practice on providing individual therapy to children, teens and young adults in need of support and education on developing healthy coping skills. I work with individuals who are struggling with managing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, grief, emotional regulation, self-esteem, social skills and relationships, among other DSM diagnosis and symptom presentation.
(314) 949-5982 View (314) 949-5982
Photo of Ana Dilber, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Ana Dilber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63126  (Online Only)
If you want a blunt and no sugar coating therapist look no further! Of course, I am honest with the intent of being kind and caring. The goal is to make the client a priority and implement self-care. Therapy is an investment and considered prevention for your own self-care needs. I have over 12 years experience, and worked in medical settings before that. I have experience in the medical health environment with a range of health issues from sufferers of heart attacks, stroke, women's & men's issues, and chronic illnesses. I implement an eclectic approach featuring CBT.
If you want a blunt and no sugar coating therapist look no further! Of course, I am honest with the intent of being kind and caring. The goal is to make the client a priority and implement self-care. Therapy is an investment and considered prevention for your own self-care needs. I have over 12 years experience, and worked in medical settings before that. I have experience in the medical health environment with a range of health issues from sufferers of heart attacks, stroke, women's & men's issues, and chronic illnesses. I implement an eclectic approach featuring CBT.
(314) 712-4205 View (314) 712-4205
Photo of Johnny Kim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Johnny Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63103
Hey there- I'm curious to see if you've ever thought the following questions: "What am I doing wrong; am I the bad person here; or why do I keep doing this?" Well, you're not alone. Asking yourself these important questions may lead to ideas of distasteful implications and conclusions that you might be afraid to confront, hoping that they aren't true. Unfortunately, that process is difficult because we're biased. I invite you to reach out if you would like an objective perspective to combat your biases and help you develop a genuine, authentic relationship with yourself.
Hey there- I'm curious to see if you've ever thought the following questions: "What am I doing wrong; am I the bad person here; or why do I keep doing this?" Well, you're not alone. Asking yourself these important questions may lead to ideas of distasteful implications and conclusions that you might be afraid to confront, hoping that they aren't true. Unfortunately, that process is difficult because we're biased. I invite you to reach out if you would like an objective perspective to combat your biases and help you develop a genuine, authentic relationship with yourself.
(314) 671-0676 View (314) 671-0676
Photo of Norinee Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Norinee Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
My Ideal client is you! I work well with varies populations to ensure understanding, empathy and process in all my sessions.
My Ideal client is you! I work well with varies populations to ensure understanding, empathy and process in all my sessions.
(314) 742-7544 View (314) 742-7544
Photo of Emotional Change Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Emotional Change Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LCSW, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63123
Please email us or visit our website to schedule an appointment as most of our "in office" staff are working remotely at this time. However our ongoing process will ensure you will have a great, competent therapist. Emotional Change provides quality therapy to diverse populations with diverse needs by providing a variety of therapists to meet those needs. By calling us, you will get a really good feel for who we are. We'll do our best to meet your needs. We accept most Insurances/Victims-of-Crime and private pay. We'll help take the stress out of finding a therapist. Individual/Couple/Group therapy is available.
Please email us or visit our website to schedule an appointment as most of our "in office" staff are working remotely at this time. However our ongoing process will ensure you will have a great, competent therapist. Emotional Change provides quality therapy to diverse populations with diverse needs by providing a variety of therapists to meet those needs. By calling us, you will get a really good feel for who we are. We'll do our best to meet your needs. We accept most Insurances/Victims-of-Crime and private pay. We'll help take the stress out of finding a therapist. Individual/Couple/Group therapy is available.
(314) 720-3033 View (314) 720-3033
Photo of Roberta Kerosevic, Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Roberta Kerosevic
Counselor, MS, PLPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63122
Have open availability for winter 2024! Sliding scale and some Medicaid; can be weekly or every other week sessions. My goals are to give clients and their families tools, and offer genuine support in daily and/or lifelong struggles. My belief is that change is possible for anyone, but the client and their loved ones need to have an open mind, and believe in love and support. Getting out of your comfort zone is a guarantee, and therapy is the first step. I will work with you and others who support you to reach your goals and make changes that lead to lifelong healthy habits of self care and thriving personal relationships.
Have open availability for winter 2024! Sliding scale and some Medicaid; can be weekly or every other week sessions. My goals are to give clients and their families tools, and offer genuine support in daily and/or lifelong struggles. My belief is that change is possible for anyone, but the client and their loved ones need to have an open mind, and believe in love and support. Getting out of your comfort zone is a guarantee, and therapy is the first step. I will work with you and others who support you to reach your goals and make changes that lead to lifelong healthy habits of self care and thriving personal relationships.
(314) 408-5054 View (314) 408-5054
Photo of Melissa A Peterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Melissa A Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Waitlist for new clients
**CURRENTLY HAVE WAITLIST FOR NEW CLIENTS** Melissa has been practicing clinical social work/psychotherapy with adolescents and adults for over 15 years, specializing in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-injury and grief/loss. She has an eclectic approach, drawing from psychodynamic, interpersonal and skills-based therapies including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction. Her approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, collaborative and integrative. She has a profound respect for the complexity of people's lives and experiences.
**CURRENTLY HAVE WAITLIST FOR NEW CLIENTS** Melissa has been practicing clinical social work/psychotherapy with adolescents and adults for over 15 years, specializing in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-injury and grief/loss. She has an eclectic approach, drawing from psychodynamic, interpersonal and skills-based therapies including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction. Her approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, collaborative and integrative. She has a profound respect for the complexity of people's lives and experiences.
(314) 696-6232 View (314) 696-6232

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.