Chronic Pain Therapists in Greenville, NC

Photo of Kelsey Someliana-Lauer, Counselor in Greenville, NC
Kelsey Someliana-Lauer
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27833  (Online Only)
A chronic pain or illness diagnosis can feel like your whole life has shifted. Relationships change, hobbies are lost, and independence looks different. You may be feeling depressed and hopeless about the future, wondering if life will ever look the same. You may still be deep in the grieving process. You may even be discovering that your childhood trauma could be correlated with your diagnosis, leaving you to process two traumas at once. The good news? You can still create a life worth living - a life where you can follow your values, even with pain and illness present.
A chronic pain or illness diagnosis can feel like your whole life has shifted. Relationships change, hobbies are lost, and independence looks different. You may be feeling depressed and hopeless about the future, wondering if life will ever look the same. You may still be deep in the grieving process. You may even be discovering that your childhood trauma could be correlated with your diagnosis, leaving you to process two traumas at once. The good news? You can still create a life worth living - a life where you can follow your values, even with pain and illness present.
(910) 812-3096 View (910) 812-3096
Photo of James A Barbour, Licensed Professional Counselor in Greenville, NC
James A Barbour
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27833  (Online Only)
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
(252) 585-5186 View (252) 585-5186
Photo of Jean Hansson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Greenville, NC
Jean Hansson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
I am a psychotherapist with many years on mental health experience. My clientele is adults, 16 and up. Areas of practice focus are anxiety and depression, chronic pain, grief, traumatic loss, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and adult ADHD. I'm trained in the therapy modalities of hypnotherapy, EMDR Exposure (CBT), and Emotional Freedom Technique - an energy psychology method. In helping clients break old habits, I'm a licensed provider of Trim Life, a weight loss program using hypnosis. Another program is Clean Break for smoking cessation.
I am a psychotherapist with many years on mental health experience. My clientele is adults, 16 and up. Areas of practice focus are anxiety and depression, chronic pain, grief, traumatic loss, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and adult ADHD. I'm trained in the therapy modalities of hypnotherapy, EMDR Exposure (CBT), and Emotional Freedom Technique - an energy psychology method. In helping clients break old habits, I'm a licensed provider of Trim Life, a weight loss program using hypnosis. Another program is Clean Break for smoking cessation.
(252) 627-9304 View (252) 627-9304
Photo of Anne Mauldin, Psychologist in Greenville, NC
Anne Mauldin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
(252) 455-9998 View (252) 455-9998
Photo of Leslie A Veach, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Greenville, NC
Leslie A Veach
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHCS, CGP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858
Sometimes we feel alone, even in a crowd or with significant others. Pain, trauma, feeling different/misunderstood/unknown or even how we see ourselves can drive a wedge between us and the people and life experiences that matter most to us. If you are looking for someone who will join with you as you find your way through to a more meaningful way of living and toward more fulfilling relationships, then I welcome you to contact me for a free consultation.
Sometimes we feel alone, even in a crowd or with significant others. Pain, trauma, feeling different/misunderstood/unknown or even how we see ourselves can drive a wedge between us and the people and life experiences that matter most to us. If you are looking for someone who will join with you as you find your way through to a more meaningful way of living and toward more fulfilling relationships, then I welcome you to contact me for a free consultation.
(252) 489-4588 View (252) 489-4588
Photo of Dana Cea, Counselor in Greenville, NC
Dana Cea
Counselor, PhD, MS, CPSS, CRC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858  (Online Only)
I also identify as a person in recovery with severe and persistent mental illness.
Whether this is your first or the millionth therapist you have reached out to, you are taking the time to find the best fit. Have you diagnosed yourself with autism? Or felt an autism diagnosis is the missing part of your life? Maybe you have felt “different” your whole life, or perhaps you recently started exploring the possibility of neurodivergence. You may be struggling to connect with others or simply to survive day-to-day. Perhaps you’re feeling frustrated and want the answers you have been searching for.
I also identify as a person in recovery with severe and persistent mental illness.
Whether this is your first or the millionth therapist you have reached out to, you are taking the time to find the best fit. Have you diagnosed yourself with autism? Or felt an autism diagnosis is the missing part of your life? Maybe you have felt “different” your whole life, or perhaps you recently started exploring the possibility of neurodivergence. You may be struggling to connect with others or simply to survive day-to-day. Perhaps you’re feeling frustrated and want the answers you have been searching for.
(252) 254-2510 View (252) 254-2510
Photo of Deborah B. Burnette, Licensed Professional Counselor in Greenville, NC
Deborah B. Burnette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, LPC, LCAS, NCAC II, MAC
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27833
Frequently we hear how many people in today’s society find themselves feeling anxious, depressed, stressed and overwhelmed by life circumstances and/or addiction disorders. My counseling practice provides you a confidential, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to talk about your concerns, problems, and emotional pain. I listen with compassion and together we develop a plan to help you gain insight into your issues and to learn effective coping skills. I believe in and am focused on the hope for change and improved quality of life.
Frequently we hear how many people in today’s society find themselves feeling anxious, depressed, stressed and overwhelmed by life circumstances and/or addiction disorders. My counseling practice provides you a confidential, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to talk about your concerns, problems, and emotional pain. I listen with compassion and together we develop a plan to help you gain insight into your issues and to learn effective coping skills. I believe in and am focused on the hope for change and improved quality of life.
(252) 368-4577 View (252) 368-4577
Photo of Char Boyette, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Greenville, NC
Char Boyette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, EMDRIA, CCS, MDiv, JD
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27833
I am a person on the journey of wellness myself so I can empathize with the pain of feeling isolated and misunderstood, stuck in old patterns and unable to break unhelpful cycles of abuse, trauma, poverty, addictions, and multiple mental health challenges.
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
I am a person on the journey of wellness myself so I can empathize with the pain of feeling isolated and misunderstood, stuck in old patterns and unable to break unhelpful cycles of abuse, trauma, poverty, addictions, and multiple mental health challenges.
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
(910) 634-6171 View (910) 634-6171
Photo of Alana Everett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Greenville, NC
Alana Everett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27834  (Online Only)
My practice is primarily dedicated to supporting teenagers and adults from diverse backgrounds, including individuals within the LGBTQ+ community, those managing schizophrenia, and individuals grappling with depression and anxiety. I specialize in providing tailored support to clients who are not only ready for change but are also deeply committed to improving their lives. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, empowerment, and collaboration, as we work together to navigate challenges, build resilience, and foster meaningful growth. Whether you're seeking support to navigate your mental health journey or striving to overcome
My practice is primarily dedicated to supporting teenagers and adults from diverse backgrounds, including individuals within the LGBTQ+ community, those managing schizophrenia, and individuals grappling with depression and anxiety. I specialize in providing tailored support to clients who are not only ready for change but are also deeply committed to improving their lives. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, empowerment, and collaboration, as we work together to navigate challenges, build resilience, and foster meaningful growth. Whether you're seeking support to navigate your mental health journey or striving to overcome
(252) 376-6541 View (252) 376-6541
Photo of Christina Witmer, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Greenville, NC
Christina Witmer
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Congratulations on taking the step to consider therapy! My approach to the process is Person-Centered, neurodiverse affirming, and unique to your specific needs. Founded in scientifically proven theory, a holistic approach is considered which include biological, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual aspects. I often use techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Internal Family Systems. Operating from these perspectives I offer you a tailored experience. Your needs and well-being will always be the focus, in a safe and non-judgmental space for exploring, learning, and fostering deeper connections.
Congratulations on taking the step to consider therapy! My approach to the process is Person-Centered, neurodiverse affirming, and unique to your specific needs. Founded in scientifically proven theory, a holistic approach is considered which include biological, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual aspects. I often use techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Internal Family Systems. Operating from these perspectives I offer you a tailored experience. Your needs and well-being will always be the focus, in a safe and non-judgmental space for exploring, learning, and fostering deeper connections.
(252) 300-0916 View (252) 300-0916
Photo of Kari Cadmus, Counselor in Greenville, NC
Kari Cadmus
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858
Do you experience unwanted intrusive thoughts, images, or impulses? Have you ever worried you’re “losing it,” or “going crazy” because you have these thoughts? Do you find yourself replaying conversations and interactions over and over again to make sure you didn’t offend someone or embarrass yourself? Do you find yourself avoiding people and/or places and/or performing actions to neutralize or alleviate the unwanted thoughts? Have you been anxious for most if not all of your life and are ready for a change? Have you attempted to reduce and manage your anxiety before to no avail?
Do you experience unwanted intrusive thoughts, images, or impulses? Have you ever worried you’re “losing it,” or “going crazy” because you have these thoughts? Do you find yourself replaying conversations and interactions over and over again to make sure you didn’t offend someone or embarrass yourself? Do you find yourself avoiding people and/or places and/or performing actions to neutralize or alleviate the unwanted thoughts? Have you been anxious for most if not all of your life and are ready for a change? Have you attempted to reduce and manage your anxiety before to no avail?
(252) 599-5078 View (252) 599-5078
Photo of Michelle Tennant, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Greenville, NC
Michelle Tennant
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858  (Online Only)
Drawing from my experiences in culturally diverse communities across the globe, I strive to create a safe space in which your values and beliefs form the foundation of our therapeutic relationship. By pairing your interests, preferences, and strengths with my background in modalities such as CBT, DBT, CPT, ACT, and expressive arts therapy, we’ll work together to craft an approach that works for you. No matter what’s going on in your life that’s led you to seek therapy, we can figure this out together. You don’t have to do it alone.
Drawing from my experiences in culturally diverse communities across the globe, I strive to create a safe space in which your values and beliefs form the foundation of our therapeutic relationship. By pairing your interests, preferences, and strengths with my background in modalities such as CBT, DBT, CPT, ACT, and expressive arts therapy, we’ll work together to craft an approach that works for you. No matter what’s going on in your life that’s led you to seek therapy, we can figure this out together. You don’t have to do it alone.
View
Photo of Kelly Dispirito Taylor, Marriage & Family Therapist in Greenville, NC
Kelly Dispirito Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858
I love working with my clients! Many come to me depressed, anxious, struggling personally and in their relationships. I try to provide them with hope, perspective, and together we come up with a new plan moving forward. Often, I find clients want to let go of old habits or ways of interacting with loved ones to find more healthy ways to live. We focus on setting healthy boundaries, advocating for oneself, setting goals that will lead to greater happiness, and finding hope in the future. With no exception, I find clients have that inner strength to change within them. Sometimes, they just need a little help along the way!
I love working with my clients! Many come to me depressed, anxious, struggling personally and in their relationships. I try to provide them with hope, perspective, and together we come up with a new plan moving forward. Often, I find clients want to let go of old habits or ways of interacting with loved ones to find more healthy ways to live. We focus on setting healthy boundaries, advocating for oneself, setting goals that will lead to greater happiness, and finding hope in the future. With no exception, I find clients have that inner strength to change within them. Sometimes, they just need a little help along the way!
(252) 336-9665 View (252) 336-9665
Photo of Faith Based Counseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Greenville, NC
Faith Based Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFT
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Waitlist for new clients
At Faith Based Counseling Services, LLC, our mission is to provide quality therapeutic services that embody the whole you, mind, body and spirit. We believe that in order to have overall balance and healing, you must be able to tap into all parts of you , which include spiritual connection. Therapeutic services are not provided in the form of preaching, but incorporate your connection with God. We utilize Godly principles to assist in strengthening you in order to enhance your ability to cope, see hope and imagine a better life for yourself.
At Faith Based Counseling Services, LLC, our mission is to provide quality therapeutic services that embody the whole you, mind, body and spirit. We believe that in order to have overall balance and healing, you must be able to tap into all parts of you , which include spiritual connection. Therapeutic services are not provided in the form of preaching, but incorporate your connection with God. We utilize Godly principles to assist in strengthening you in order to enhance your ability to cope, see hope and imagine a better life for yourself.
(252) 648-7574 View (252) 648-7574
Photo of Jairo Orellana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Greenville, NC
Jairo Orellana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858  (Online Only)
In the fast-paced world we live in, prioritizing mental health is more important than ever. As a licensed clinical therapist with over 15 years of experience, my focus is on assisting adults and adolescents in comprehending and managing challenging emotions and behaviors that hinder their progress. At times, we may experience unexplained sadness, loneliness, withdrawal, defeat, alienation, anxiety, or self-defeating tendencies. These emotions can adversely affect our lives and relationships. It is often difficult to live with these emotions. You can get the help you need. I can help you!
In the fast-paced world we live in, prioritizing mental health is more important than ever. As a licensed clinical therapist with over 15 years of experience, my focus is on assisting adults and adolescents in comprehending and managing challenging emotions and behaviors that hinder their progress. At times, we may experience unexplained sadness, loneliness, withdrawal, defeat, alienation, anxiety, or self-defeating tendencies. These emotions can adversely affect our lives and relationships. It is often difficult to live with these emotions. You can get the help you need. I can help you!
(252) 765-4146 View (252) 765-4146
Photo of Irma Abrego-Lappin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Greenville, NC
Irma Abrego-Lappin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, I believe people have deep-rooted aspirations for well-being in many areas of their lives, including emotional, physical, social, and spiritual wellness. I strive to make a safe and trusting relationship with clients so that they can improve in each of these areas and feel more balanced and fulfilled. I collaboratively work with clients, valuing their unique strengths, interests, and aspirations. I enjoy working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, grief, life transitions, career/vocational concerns, spirituality, weight management and body image concerns, and relationship issues.
As a therapist, I believe people have deep-rooted aspirations for well-being in many areas of their lives, including emotional, physical, social, and spiritual wellness. I strive to make a safe and trusting relationship with clients so that they can improve in each of these areas and feel more balanced and fulfilled. I collaboratively work with clients, valuing their unique strengths, interests, and aspirations. I enjoy working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, grief, life transitions, career/vocational concerns, spirituality, weight management and body image concerns, and relationship issues.
(252) 379-0066 View (252) 379-0066
Photo of Kasey Saunders, Marriage & Family Therapist in Greenville, NC
Kasey Saunders
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858  (Online Only)
I am so glad you found your way here! It takes courage and strength to invest in yourself. You are in a great place to begin this journey. We all go through ups and downs throughout life. There are times we all need a little support to get through the tougher times. Having someone who is compassionate, non-judgmental, and unbiased to talk to can be the key to unlocking what is already inside you, waiting to be discovered. Finding someone you feel comfortable with is one of the most important parts of this journey. I would love to talk with you and discuss how I can support you.
I am so glad you found your way here! It takes courage and strength to invest in yourself. You are in a great place to begin this journey. We all go through ups and downs throughout life. There are times we all need a little support to get through the tougher times. Having someone who is compassionate, non-judgmental, and unbiased to talk to can be the key to unlocking what is already inside you, waiting to be discovered. Finding someone you feel comfortable with is one of the most important parts of this journey. I would love to talk with you and discuss how I can support you.
View
Photo of Eva Washington, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Greenville, NC
Eva Washington
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CSOTS
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27833
My name is Eva Washington, owner of Journey Towards Improved Health. I use an eclectic treatment approach which can embrace people from all backgrounds. The one approach I do believe is appropriate for all is the Person Centered approach. You can never go wrong focusing on the person and tailoring treatment to the individual. My life experience affords me a practical approach not every therapist can experience from the classroom. I specialize in LBGQT+, trauma and substance abuse. I work with adults, young adults, teens, and couples.
My name is Eva Washington, owner of Journey Towards Improved Health. I use an eclectic treatment approach which can embrace people from all backgrounds. The one approach I do believe is appropriate for all is the Person Centered approach. You can never go wrong focusing on the person and tailoring treatment to the individual. My life experience affords me a practical approach not every therapist can experience from the classroom. I specialize in LBGQT+, trauma and substance abuse. I work with adults, young adults, teens, and couples.
(336) 920-8843 View (336) 920-8843
Photo of Latonya R Jones, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Greenville, NC
Latonya R Jones
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCASA, CAMS-ll, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858  (Online Only)
My name is Latonya Jones and I have a passion for working with adults, 18 and older, with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and other symptoms which are impacting their ability to function. I enjoy working with clients to assist them in finding their voice, setting boundaries, and improving their self-esteem. Together, we will identify your strengths, goals and barriers that are impacting your ability to accomplish your goals.
My name is Latonya Jones and I have a passion for working with adults, 18 and older, with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and other symptoms which are impacting their ability to function. I enjoy working with clients to assist them in finding their voice, setting boundaries, and improving their self-esteem. Together, we will identify your strengths, goals and barriers that are impacting your ability to accomplish your goals.
(252) 460-4439 View (252) 460-4439
Photo of Stephen Barnard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Greenville, NC
Stephen Barnard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m a licensed social worker with over 17 years of experience in the field. My specialties include working with trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, stress, and compulsive and obsessive behaviors. I use a holistic approach which can incorporate techniques such as mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. I often find that my clients benefit from my experience working with modern neuroscience, which helps us better understand what’s going on inside our brains as we work towards changing our patterns of thinking and behavior.
Hello! I’m a licensed social worker with over 17 years of experience in the field. My specialties include working with trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, stress, and compulsive and obsessive behaviors. I use a holistic approach which can incorporate techniques such as mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. I often find that my clients benefit from my experience working with modern neuroscience, which helps us better understand what’s going on inside our brains as we work towards changing our patterns of thinking and behavior.
(919) 809-6079 View (919) 809-6079

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.