Chronic Pain Therapists in Havelock, NC

Photo of Patricia A Toth, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia A Toth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Havelock, NC 28532  (Online Only)
Rather than identifying and categorizing the presence or absence of symptoms of illness, my practice seeks to uncover the psychological health in my clients.
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
Rather than identifying and categorizing the presence or absence of symptoms of illness, my practice seeks to uncover the psychological health in my clients.
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
(252) 392-4371 View (252) 392-4371
Photo of Inna K Porter, MEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Inna K Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Havelock, NC 28532
I believe counseling is a process by which we gain insight into ourselves.It is my responsibility to provide you with a safe environment to explore your thoughts and feelings. I use a combination of therapies, cognitive behavioral, reality based, person centered and motivational interviewing. I understand that every individual &situation is different, I will adapt to best fit the you. We will look at your cognitions and behaviors, to understand where you are and where you hope to be. My goal is to provide you with the strength to succeed, & with tangible resources and techniques that you can use outside of the counseling session.
I believe counseling is a process by which we gain insight into ourselves.It is my responsibility to provide you with a safe environment to explore your thoughts and feelings. I use a combination of therapies, cognitive behavioral, reality based, person centered and motivational interviewing. I understand that every individual &situation is different, I will adapt to best fit the you. We will look at your cognitions and behaviors, to understand where you are and where you hope to be. My goal is to provide you with the strength to succeed, & with tangible resources and techniques that you can use outside of the counseling session.
(252) 654-9675 View (252) 654-9675
Photo of Aurey Rodriguez, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Aurey Rodriguez
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Havelock, NC 28532
Waitlist for new clients
This journey that we call life can be bumpy and many times unpredictable, but with the right tools you will be equipped to tackle what may come your way ( life transitions, anxiety, motherhood, self-esteem, negative mindsets, people pleasers, and much more) I'm here to walk alongside you, provide a safe space that will enable you to voice out all those hidden emotions, identify patterns and triggers and empower you to make healthy decisions in life. Ofresco Terapia en Español.
This journey that we call life can be bumpy and many times unpredictable, but with the right tools you will be equipped to tackle what may come your way ( life transitions, anxiety, motherhood, self-esteem, negative mindsets, people pleasers, and much more) I'm here to walk alongside you, provide a safe space that will enable you to voice out all those hidden emotions, identify patterns and triggers and empower you to make healthy decisions in life. Ofresco Terapia en Español.
(252) 375-4252 View (252) 375-4252

More Therapists Nearby

Mary Folger Summerlin
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Newport, NC 28570
I enjoy working with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and with a wide array of presenting difficulties. I am person-centered and assist individuals with working towards their own personal goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups to assist with the achievement of these goals. While I feel comfortable addressing any issue, I am always willing to refer to another provider if needed.
I enjoy working with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and with a wide array of presenting difficulties. I am person-centered and assist individuals with working towards their own personal goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups to assist with the achievement of these goals. While I feel comfortable addressing any issue, I am always willing to refer to another provider if needed.
(252) 297-6201 View (252) 297-6201

Online Therapists

Photo of Shanna W Dickens, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shanna W Dickens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28409  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also passionate about helping to manage chronic illness, breaking codependence, recovering from narcissistic abuse and affirming neurodivergence.
As humans, we are always gravitating towards healing, trying to right ourselves and to shift from surviving back into living. But sometimes, we get stuck with uncomfortable emotions that we aren't exactly sure what to do with. In therapy, I offer a safe place to unpack all of that uncomfortable stuff and decide what is worth keeping and what is just too heavy to keep lugging around day after day. If you are ready to unpack, I am here for it. If you want to learn how to be assertive, how to set boundaries effectively and how to show up for yourself even when others can't or don't, I am absolutely on board.
I am also passionate about helping to manage chronic illness, breaking codependence, recovering from narcissistic abuse and affirming neurodivergence.
As humans, we are always gravitating towards healing, trying to right ourselves and to shift from surviving back into living. But sometimes, we get stuck with uncomfortable emotions that we aren't exactly sure what to do with. In therapy, I offer a safe place to unpack all of that uncomfortable stuff and decide what is worth keeping and what is just too heavy to keep lugging around day after day. If you are ready to unpack, I am here for it. If you want to learn how to be assertive, how to set boundaries effectively and how to show up for yourself even when others can't or don't, I am absolutely on board.
(910) 335-9101 View (910) 335-9101
Photo of Taylor J Holder - Palms Wellness Center, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Palms Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28546
Have you been suffering from Grief & Loss, terminally ill, or just feeling alone and isolated, unheard? Need someone that will truly listen and talk "with you"? Taking things at your pace, understanding your needs, we provide "care" because we care. We can help you through what may be the hardest challenges you have faced. Have you lost yourself or a loved one to Opioid Addiction and need help with medication management and therapy? We have over 16 years helping people build new lives which allows them to move forward by healing forward. We also provide "Pet/Fur Kids" Loss therapy as we at PWC "all" relate first hand to this pain.
Have you been suffering from Grief & Loss, terminally ill, or just feeling alone and isolated, unheard? Need someone that will truly listen and talk "with you"? Taking things at your pace, understanding your needs, we provide "care" because we care. We can help you through what may be the hardest challenges you have faced. Have you lost yourself or a loved one to Opioid Addiction and need help with medication management and therapy? We have over 16 years helping people build new lives which allows them to move forward by healing forward. We also provide "Pet/Fur Kids" Loss therapy as we at PWC "all" relate first hand to this pain.
(910) 758-2346 View (910) 758-2346
Photo of Tita Johnson, LCMHC, LPC/S, MAC, CCTP, Counselor
Tita Johnson
Counselor, LCMHC, LPC/S, MAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27804  (Online Only)
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
(843) 428-6596 View (843) 428-6596
Photo of Anne Mauldin, PhD, Psychologist
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 Jennifer Tremblay Pettee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Tremblay Pettee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cape Carteret, NC 28584  (Online Only)
Together, we can work to reduce emotional pain and stress and instead develop an overall sense of wellness.
Overwhelmed? We can be overwhelmed by many things; work/family demands, grief, romantic relationships, health, traumatic events, and so on. Sometimes, even when we feel like we SHOULD be happy, we are not. At Bonne Journée PLLC, I take a "Big Picture" approach to help empower clients to sort out what is meaningful and helpful in their lives.
Together, we can work to reduce emotional pain and stress and instead develop an overall sense of wellness.
Overwhelmed? We can be overwhelmed by many things; work/family demands, grief, romantic relationships, health, traumatic events, and so on. Sometimes, even when we feel like we SHOULD be happy, we are not. At Bonne Journée PLLC, I take a "Big Picture" approach to help empower clients to sort out what is meaningful and helpful in their lives.
(252) 542-2160 View (252) 542-2160
Photo of Hannah Parham, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Parham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
My practice specializes in trauma, anxiety, and chronic illness, with a focus on women's health issues such as endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain. Whether you’re seeking to heal from past traumas or dealing with the ongoing stress of a chronic condition, I’m here to support you every step of the way. I am dedicated to creating a safe, supportive space where you can process your experiences, develop the tools needed to cope, and explore your feelings.
My practice specializes in trauma, anxiety, and chronic illness, with a focus on women's health issues such as endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain. Whether you’re seeking to heal from past traumas or dealing with the ongoing stress of a chronic condition, I’m here to support you every step of the way. I am dedicated to creating a safe, supportive space where you can process your experiences, develop the tools needed to cope, and explore your feelings.
(910) 812-5869 View (910) 812-5869
Photo of Teresa Vaughan, LCMHC, LPC, LCPC
Teresa Vaughan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I am grounded in CBT, but also believe in the power of art and movement in the healing of emotional pain.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change. Please note services are 100% virtual at this time.
I am grounded in CBT, but also believe in the power of art and movement in the healing of emotional pain.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change. Please note services are 100% virtual at this time.
(252) 689-7203 View (252) 689-7203
Photo of Debra A Midyette, PhD, LCMHC
Debra A Midyette
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, post-partum issues, trauma, grief, & chronic pain.
Accepting New Clients: Are old negative behavior patterns or memories of traumatizing events interfering with your enjoyment of life? Do you feel disconnected from your true purpose? Let’s work together to help you transform your thoughts, achieve your goals, and live a meaningful life!
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, post-partum issues, trauma, grief, & chronic pain.
Accepting New Clients: Are old negative behavior patterns or memories of traumatizing events interfering with your enjoyment of life? Do you feel disconnected from your true purpose? Let’s work together to help you transform your thoughts, achieve your goals, and live a meaningful life!
(252) 501-9855 View (252) 501-9855
Photo of Betsy Newsome Moody, Pre-Licensed Professional
Betsy Newsome Moody
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27527
Waitlist for new clients
Together, we will explore meaning in difficult situations and practice ways of managing stress or symptoms to maintain balance in life and ease your pain.
Do you have something you need to talk about? Trudging through life with stress, grief, anxiety, or other burdens can feel lonely and exhausting. Address your mental health needs through conversation and engage in therapeutic interventions to bring positive change in your life. Exploring how your mental health has negative impacts on your body and your daily life will improve your well-being.
Together, we will explore meaning in difficult situations and practice ways of managing stress or symptoms to maintain balance in life and ease your pain.
Do you have something you need to talk about? Trudging through life with stress, grief, anxiety, or other burdens can feel lonely and exhausting. Address your mental health needs through conversation and engage in therapeutic interventions to bring positive change in your life. Exploring how your mental health has negative impacts on your body and your daily life will improve your well-being.
(919) 372-0687 View (919) 372-0687
Photo of Marcy Arnold, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcy Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
(252) 772-9378 View (252) 772-9378
Photo of Ann Marie Simmonds, MA,  LPA, LCAS, CCS, Psychological Associate
Ann Marie Simmonds
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Ann Simmonds, MA, LPA, LCAS, CCS: I am dedicated to helping individuals work through personal and relational issues so that they may cope effectively and realize a more fulfilling life. I specialize in helping individuals work through depression, anxiety, trauma and grief, relational issues, and chronic pain in order to realize their full potential. I hold a master’s degree in Psychology and Substance Use Treatment from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
Ann Simmonds, MA, LPA, LCAS, CCS: I am dedicated to helping individuals work through personal and relational issues so that they may cope effectively and realize a more fulfilling life. I specialize in helping individuals work through depression, anxiety, trauma and grief, relational issues, and chronic pain in order to realize their full potential. I hold a master’s degree in Psychology and Substance Use Treatment from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
(910) 550-2992 View (910) 550-2992
Photo of Char Boyette, LCAS, EMDRIA, CCS, MDiv, JD, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Char Boyette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, EMDRIA, CCS, MDiv, JD
Verified Verified
Winterville, NC 28590
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 Casey Berna, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Casey Berna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Often our emotional and physical pain gets dismissed and we can go years suffering, normalizing our distress.
In my clinical practice, I utilize a strengths-based approach to support clients and integrate different therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy and mindfulness. I work with teens and adults who come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Anxiety, depression, grief, burn out, and relationship challenges all can have a significant impact on daily life. I offers tools to manage these feelings, while also providing a space to process trauma, set boundaries, and help clients feel validated and unstuck.
Often our emotional and physical pain gets dismissed and we can go years suffering, normalizing our distress.
In my clinical practice, I utilize a strengths-based approach to support clients and integrate different therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy and mindfulness. I work with teens and adults who come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Anxiety, depression, grief, burn out, and relationship challenges all can have a significant impact on daily life. I offers tools to manage these feelings, while also providing a space to process trauma, set boundaries, and help clients feel validated and unstuck.
(910) 537-2920 View (910) 537-2920
Photo of Pamilla G Yount, CMH, CHT, CHI
Pamilla G Yount
CMH, CHT, CHI
Verified Verified
Oak Island, NC 28465
I specialize in sessions and classes for Stop Smoking, Weight Loss and Stress and Pain Management.
Hypnosis works to stop smoking, weight loss, stress, pain management, restructuring and reinventing your life . It also works for creating a positive new way of life.
I specialize in sessions and classes for Stop Smoking, Weight Loss and Stress and Pain Management.
Hypnosis works to stop smoking, weight loss, stress, pain management, restructuring and reinventing your life . It also works for creating a positive new way of life.
(828) 962-4336 View (828) 962-4336
Photo of Jen Johnson, MS, MFA, CRC, BCC, LCMHC
Jen Johnson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, MFA, CRC, BCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include anxiety, stress, self-criticism, creativity, grief, loss, transitions, health challenges, illness, and medical trauma.
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, self-criticism, loss, grief, transitions, or coping with illness? Do you dream about doing things but struggle to take action toward your dreams? It's possible to learn how to feel more inner peace, happiness, and resilience. It's possible to learn how to handle life's challenges with greater ease and resilience and embrace life's joy and beauty. You can learn how to take action toward your goals.
My areas of specialty include anxiety, stress, self-criticism, creativity, grief, loss, transitions, health challenges, illness, and medical trauma.
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, self-criticism, loss, grief, transitions, or coping with illness? Do you dream about doing things but struggle to take action toward your dreams? It's possible to learn how to feel more inner peace, happiness, and resilience. It's possible to learn how to handle life's challenges with greater ease and resilience and embrace life's joy and beauty. You can learn how to take action toward your goals.
(910) 653-1690 View (910) 653-1690
Photo of James A Barbour, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
James A Barbour
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27834  (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

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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.