Photo of Dr. Lisa Nail, Psychologist in Colmar, PA
Dr. Lisa Nail
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colmar, PA 18915  (Online Only)
Creating a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment for you to process your experiences, explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and try new ways to thinking and behaving is my goal as your treatment provider. Therapy should be a space of trust and a space to grow without concerns of criticism, shame, or guilt. Often the quote that 'all roads lead back to trauma' comes to my mind, we all have our own shaping experiences. I believe we all benefit from a safe landing space to explore, learn, and grow from our life experiences. Let's find what gives you meaning and further grow your life to support your needs and wants.
Creating a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment for you to process your experiences, explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and try new ways to thinking and behaving is my goal as your treatment provider. Therapy should be a space of trust and a space to grow without concerns of criticism, shame, or guilt. Often the quote that 'all roads lead back to trauma' comes to my mind, we all have our own shaping experiences. I believe we all benefit from a safe landing space to explore, learn, and grow from our life experiences. Let's find what gives you meaning and further grow your life to support your needs and wants.
(267) 715-9184 View (267) 715-9184

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Courtney Gable, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colmar, PA
Courtney Gable
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Blue Bell, PA 19422
My inclusive work focuses on: Helping people to feel regulated and empowered, and to feel seen, safe, and valued for who they are in our process together; those struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety; chronic pain, grief and loss, phobias, racing thoughts, crossroads and upheaval; as well as Body Image, with a specific focus on Body Neutrality and Health At Every Size (HAES) – all with mindfulness, compassion, and acceptance.
My inclusive work focuses on: Helping people to feel regulated and empowered, and to feel seen, safe, and valued for who they are in our process together; those struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety; chronic pain, grief and loss, phobias, racing thoughts, crossroads and upheaval; as well as Body Image, with a specific focus on Body Neutrality and Health At Every Size (HAES) – all with mindfulness, compassion, and acceptance.
(215) 607-6969 View (215) 607-6969
Photo of Melissa Appel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colmar, PA
Melissa Appel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Horsham, PA 19044
I also specialize in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT).
Do you find yourself avoiding life because you have too much anxiety? Or you’ve been having chronic pain so long that you worry life will never be different? If something hurts too much for you to engage fully in life- whether it’s feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or in chronic physical pain, it’s time to try something new. I’ve created my practice as a safe place where you can find relief from emotional and/or chronic physical pain, with a focus on anxiety, depression, grief or feeling out of control. I will help you create a plan to repair, restore and find new ways to achieve wellbeing.
I also specialize in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT).
Do you find yourself avoiding life because you have too much anxiety? Or you’ve been having chronic pain so long that you worry life will never be different? If something hurts too much for you to engage fully in life- whether it’s feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or in chronic physical pain, it’s time to try something new. I’ve created my practice as a safe place where you can find relief from emotional and/or chronic physical pain, with a focus on anxiety, depression, grief or feeling out of control. I will help you create a plan to repair, restore and find new ways to achieve wellbeing.
(215) 770-1841 View (215) 770-1841
Photo of Kelly N Craney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colmar, PA
Kelly N Craney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
The majority of my clients are people who have struggled to find relief from traditional medicine (and traditional approaches to addressing complex ailments/struggles). I am grateful that these individuals find relief here. Many of my patients have been able to resolve complex challenges in just a few months of biweekly sessions. Areas of specialized care & success include, but are not limited to: trauma, chronic pain, nerve damage, complex medical conditions, grief, spiritual development, struggles with weight, stomach/GI issues, insomnia, anxiety, depression, medication intolerance, and some areas of addiction.
The majority of my clients are people who have struggled to find relief from traditional medicine (and traditional approaches to addressing complex ailments/struggles). I am grateful that these individuals find relief here. Many of my patients have been able to resolve complex challenges in just a few months of biweekly sessions. Areas of specialized care & success include, but are not limited to: trauma, chronic pain, nerve damage, complex medical conditions, grief, spiritual development, struggles with weight, stomach/GI issues, insomnia, anxiety, depression, medication intolerance, and some areas of addiction.
(267) 871-9969 View (267) 871-9969
Photo of Wendy Lee Forman in Colmar, PA
Wendy Lee Forman
PhD
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
Therapy is an interactive process,and I connect easily and well with people of all ages who are struggling with depression, anxiety,relationships and family issues,chronic illness or grief. I am a practical person with a good sense of humor and considerable empathy, employing a variety of useful techniques depending on specific problems and goals.
Therapy is an interactive process,and I connect easily and well with people of all ages who are struggling with depression, anxiety,relationships and family issues,chronic illness or grief. I am a practical person with a good sense of humor and considerable empathy, employing a variety of useful techniques depending on specific problems and goals.
(215) 340-1554 View (215) 340-1554
Photo of Danielle Carlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colmar, PA
Danielle Carlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18902  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with families in the medical setting as well as individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, living with or being affected by someone living with a chronic/terminal illness, grief & loss and difficult relationship dynamics.
Through my experience working with various populations, all going through some of life’s greatest pains, I aim to provide a safe space for my clients. A safe space where they can explore the complexities of their pasts, the melting pot of their emotions, and the truths of their realities. By utilizing mediation and grounding techniques, we uncover what the authentic self means to each individual and journey towards achieving that in daily life.
I have extensive experience working with families in the medical setting as well as individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, living with or being affected by someone living with a chronic/terminal illness, grief & loss and difficult relationship dynamics.
Through my experience working with various populations, all going through some of life’s greatest pains, I aim to provide a safe space for my clients. A safe space where they can explore the complexities of their pasts, the melting pot of their emotions, and the truths of their realities. By utilizing mediation and grounding techniques, we uncover what the authentic self means to each individual and journey towards achieving that in daily life.
(814) 527-2516 View (814) 527-2516
Photo of Katharine L. Bertolet Psyd, Psychologist in Colmar, PA
Katharine L. Bertolet Psyd
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Lower Gwynedd, PA 19002
The psychotherapy I do is depth-oriented, offered in a safe and peaceful setting, where we can build your sense of inner peace. We will uncover your family legacy, as well as the maladaptive patterns you are living that underlie your suffering. Within that context, we will practice awareness of the present moment and unhook you from the influences of the past. We can work to improve your relationships, clarify your life goals and help you find a sense of ease and confidence in yourself. If you are depressed and/or anxious, we will find the ways to release you from emotional pain and move toward personal fulfillment.
The psychotherapy I do is depth-oriented, offered in a safe and peaceful setting, where we can build your sense of inner peace. We will uncover your family legacy, as well as the maladaptive patterns you are living that underlie your suffering. Within that context, we will practice awareness of the present moment and unhook you from the influences of the past. We can work to improve your relationships, clarify your life goals and help you find a sense of ease and confidence in yourself. If you are depressed and/or anxious, we will find the ways to release you from emotional pain and move toward personal fulfillment.
(215) 987-5281 View (215) 987-5281
Photo of Emily Marziani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colmar, PA
Emily Marziani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chalfont, PA 18914  (Online Only)
If you are looking for help with grief and loss, chronic illness, medical anxiety and trauma, anxiety, depression or just need someone to walk alongside you while you navigate change, I am happy to help.
Welcome! I hope you and I can work together. I believe therapy should be a collaborative process and finding the right fit is not always easy! I work in an anti-oppressive and anti-racist practice and prioritize creating a safe and affirming space for you to process and heal.
If you are looking for help with grief and loss, chronic illness, medical anxiety and trauma, anxiety, depression or just need someone to walk alongside you while you navigate change, I am happy to help.
Welcome! I hope you and I can work together. I believe therapy should be a collaborative process and finding the right fit is not always easy! I work in an anti-oppressive and anti-racist practice and prioritize creating a safe and affirming space for you to process and heal.
(267) 551-6814 View (267) 551-6814
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Fisher, Psychologist in Colmar, PA
Dr. Rebecca Fisher
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Dresher, PA 19025  (Online Only)
Welcome. The struggles you are having right now make sense, given your biology, your backstory, the social context you grew up in, and your current experiences. I am passionate about helping individuals who have experienced trauma redefine who they are by understanding their trauma and its biological, cognitive, emotional, relational, and spiritual impact. I also love working with individuals with chronic pain or illness. Regardless of what you have been through, you are resilient and can rise from this moment.
Welcome. The struggles you are having right now make sense, given your biology, your backstory, the social context you grew up in, and your current experiences. I am passionate about helping individuals who have experienced trauma redefine who they are by understanding their trauma and its biological, cognitive, emotional, relational, and spiritual impact. I also love working with individuals with chronic pain or illness. Regardless of what you have been through, you are resilient and can rise from this moment.
(267) 732-1025 View (267) 732-1025
Photo of Edie Weinstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colmar, PA
Edie Weinstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
I welcome someone who is ready to make life changes and would like assistance to take them from where they are to where they want to be. A willingness to work with a supportive, experienced (since 1979) social worker/therapist who uses dynamic and interactive approaches, knowing that I am the guide, and you are the one who knows yourself best and that healing comes from within. Relationship, self esteem, body image, career goals, family challenge, sexuality, spirituality, illness, loss, addiction, depression or anxiety related issues. I offered my first TEDx talk called Overcoming the Taboo of Touch, about platonic touch by consent.
I welcome someone who is ready to make life changes and would like assistance to take them from where they are to where they want to be. A willingness to work with a supportive, experienced (since 1979) social worker/therapist who uses dynamic and interactive approaches, knowing that I am the guide, and you are the one who knows yourself best and that healing comes from within. Relationship, self esteem, body image, career goals, family challenge, sexuality, spirituality, illness, loss, addiction, depression or anxiety related issues. I offered my first TEDx talk called Overcoming the Taboo of Touch, about platonic touch by consent.
(267) 641-3762 View (267) 641-3762
Photo of Elizabeth Venart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colmar, PA
Elizabeth Venart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Ambler, PA 19002
If you are a Highly Sensitive Person, you may struggle with self-doubt, overwhelm, and perfectionism. Your gifts of empathy, intuition, creativity, and depth may be overshadowed by these challenges. Working together, you'll deepen understanding and respect for how you're wired while gaining strategies to navigate relationships and the world with greater ease. Anxiety, depression, and reactions in the present may also signal unresolved pain from the past. As a Certified IFS Therapist, Certified EMDR Therapist and EMDRIA-Approved Consultant, we will focus on healing past trauma and easing inner conflict, so you can enjoy life today.
If you are a Highly Sensitive Person, you may struggle with self-doubt, overwhelm, and perfectionism. Your gifts of empathy, intuition, creativity, and depth may be overshadowed by these challenges. Working together, you'll deepen understanding and respect for how you're wired while gaining strategies to navigate relationships and the world with greater ease. Anxiety, depression, and reactions in the present may also signal unresolved pain from the past. As a Certified IFS Therapist, Certified EMDR Therapist and EMDRIA-Approved Consultant, we will focus on healing past trauma and easing inner conflict, so you can enjoy life today.
(267) 440-6770 View (267) 440-6770
Photo of Susan Bendersky Sacks in Colmar, PA
Susan Bendersky Sacks
MSN, PMHCNS, BC, RN
Verified Verified
Blue Bell, PA 19422
I am a published author & speaker with 42 years of experience in Clinical Hypnosis, Individual, Couples & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a BSN & MSN from University of Pennsylvania, and on their teaching faculty. I have advanced training in CISD, Certified in REBT & Clinical Hypnosis, working with weight loss, disordered eating, smoking cessation, anxiety, IBS, psychogenic pain, stress, self esteem, anger, depression, shame and guilt, and self-sabotaging emotions, intrusive thoughts. Clients average 3-6 sessions, or weekly, biweekly, & monthly. I am down to earth, easy to talk to, organized, evidenced based & compassionate.
I am a published author & speaker with 42 years of experience in Clinical Hypnosis, Individual, Couples & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a BSN & MSN from University of Pennsylvania, and on their teaching faculty. I have advanced training in CISD, Certified in REBT & Clinical Hypnosis, working with weight loss, disordered eating, smoking cessation, anxiety, IBS, psychogenic pain, stress, self esteem, anger, depression, shame and guilt, and self-sabotaging emotions, intrusive thoughts. Clients average 3-6 sessions, or weekly, biweekly, & monthly. I am down to earth, easy to talk to, organized, evidenced based & compassionate.
(610) 616-2207 View (610) 616-2207
Photo of Kate Deatrich, Psychologist in Colmar, PA
Kate Deatrich
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
I am an experienced psychologist who helps adolescents and adults overcome a variety of mental health and life challenges. I specialize in adolescent and adult survivors of abuse and trauma. This includes childhood abuse, sexual abuse/assault, complex PTSD, and medical trauma. Another specialty of mine is chronic pain and illness, including syndromes that are difficult to diagnose and treat. I also particularly enjoy working with folks in the LGBTQ+ community. Lastly, I provide psychological assessment for ADHD in adults, as well as IQ and personality/diagnostic testing.
I am an experienced psychologist who helps adolescents and adults overcome a variety of mental health and life challenges. I specialize in adolescent and adult survivors of abuse and trauma. This includes childhood abuse, sexual abuse/assault, complex PTSD, and medical trauma. Another specialty of mine is chronic pain and illness, including syndromes that are difficult to diagnose and treat. I also particularly enjoy working with folks in the LGBTQ+ community. Lastly, I provide psychological assessment for ADHD in adults, as well as IQ and personality/diagnostic testing.
(484) 572-4273 View (484) 572-4273
Photo of Nina Sidell, M.A. Expressive Arts Therapy in Colmar, PA
Nina Sidell, M.A. Expressive Arts Therapy
MA
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
I accept most insurances. I will help you with your anxiety, help solve your problems and make decisions, feel less overwhelmed, and manage your emotional pain. I will help you organize your life, thoughts, and decisions. I have over 3o years of experience working successfully with children, women, and couples. You deserve a safe place to be heard, and to discover your feelings and needs as a healing formula for you and your relationships. Find clarity, support, empowerment, and peace now. I am also an experienced Keynote Speaker.
I accept most insurances. I will help you with your anxiety, help solve your problems and make decisions, feel less overwhelmed, and manage your emotional pain. I will help you organize your life, thoughts, and decisions. I have over 3o years of experience working successfully with children, women, and couples. You deserve a safe place to be heard, and to discover your feelings and needs as a healing formula for you and your relationships. Find clarity, support, empowerment, and peace now. I am also an experienced Keynote Speaker.
(267) 573-3909 View (267) 573-3909
Photo of Gerald F Bellettirie, Psychologist in Colmar, PA
Gerald F Bellettirie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Gwynedd Valley, PA 19437  (Online Only)
I am a Ph.D. Psychologist with over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families to improve the quality of their lives.I am a member of the American Psychological Association, Fellow of the Pennsylvania Psychological Association and Listed in the National Register of Health Services Providers in Psychology. In addition to my Ph.D. I also completed a full time Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Behavioral Medicine and Behavior Therapy to evaluate and treat disabling anxiety such as panic attacks and OCD in addition to stress reactions that create health problems such as migraine headache, irritable bowel syndrome, sleep and eating disorders and chronic pain. I help people in dealing with challenging life stress and eliminate the need to use alcohol and substances to cope. I develop behavioral plans for parents and for divorced parents I offer co-parenting counseling. I evaluate and treat ADHD. For those seeking help, I offer a comprehensive evaluation and a goal oriented personal treatment plan in an empathic and compassionate enviornment. I personally provide all treatment in a comfortable environment with the complete privacy of a private exit.
I am a Ph.D. Psychologist with over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families to improve the quality of their lives.I am a member of the American Psychological Association, Fellow of the Pennsylvania Psychological Association and Listed in the National Register of Health Services Providers in Psychology. In addition to my Ph.D. I also completed a full time Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Behavioral Medicine and Behavior Therapy to evaluate and treat disabling anxiety such as panic attacks and OCD in addition to stress reactions that create health problems such as migraine headache, irritable bowel syndrome, sleep and eating disorders and chronic pain. I help people in dealing with challenging life stress and eliminate the need to use alcohol and substances to cope. I develop behavioral plans for parents and for divorced parents I offer co-parenting counseling. I evaluate and treat ADHD. For those seeking help, I offer a comprehensive evaluation and a goal oriented personal treatment plan in an empathic and compassionate enviornment. I personally provide all treatment in a comfortable environment with the complete privacy of a private exit.
(215) 995-1035 View (215) 995-1035
Photo of Ira L Bilofsky LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colmar, PA
Ira L Bilofsky LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Blue Bell, PA 19422
I have been in practice for 30+ years. I graduated from Temple University in 1988 with a Master's Degree in Social Work. During my College studies I studied the theories of Salvador Minuchin, Jay Haley, and Carl Whitaker. I utilize that training in order to make my work with Individuals, Families and Couples the best it can be. I am a recognized authority on the diagnosis and treatment for ADHD and OCD. I am known for my expertise in helping Adults deal with depression, anxiety, diabetes & pain management. I consider all options in treatment planning.
I have been in practice for 30+ years. I graduated from Temple University in 1988 with a Master's Degree in Social Work. During my College studies I studied the theories of Salvador Minuchin, Jay Haley, and Carl Whitaker. I utilize that training in order to make my work with Individuals, Families and Couples the best it can be. I am a recognized authority on the diagnosis and treatment for ADHD and OCD. I am known for my expertise in helping Adults deal with depression, anxiety, diabetes & pain management. I consider all options in treatment planning.
(215) 995-0025 View (215) 995-0025
Photo of Hannah Gilmore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colmar, PA
Hannah Gilmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Lansdale, PA 19446
Whether you are coming to therapy for anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, a life change, or just a general sense of unease, facing these issues can be scary. Healing isn’t easy because it involves confronting our pain and hurts. Healing can also be full of joy, hope, connection, and freedom as we experience new possibilities of being and relating. My approach is warm, relational, and integrative. I strive to offer a space where you can feel safe enough to look inward – to gently and compassionately welcome all parts of yourself with less judgment and shame.
Whether you are coming to therapy for anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, a life change, or just a general sense of unease, facing these issues can be scary. Healing isn’t easy because it involves confronting our pain and hurts. Healing can also be full of joy, hope, connection, and freedom as we experience new possibilities of being and relating. My approach is warm, relational, and integrative. I strive to offer a space where you can feel safe enough to look inward – to gently and compassionately welcome all parts of yourself with less judgment and shame.
(215) 544-3724 View (215) 544-3724
Photo of Theresa Anne Counihan, Psychologist in Colmar, PA
Theresa Anne Counihan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
North Wales, PA 19454  (Online Only)
I have worked with persons throughout the lifespan. Most recently, I consulted at skilled nursing homes and assisted care facilities with a focus on illness and end of life challenges. I enjoy working with young adults who are just finding their way in this world and navigating new relationships and responsibilities. I accept clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, phobias, stress, identity development, assertiveness, anger management, and relationship challenges for those who are heterosexual, LGBTQ, caregivers, and parents.
I have worked with persons throughout the lifespan. Most recently, I consulted at skilled nursing homes and assisted care facilities with a focus on illness and end of life challenges. I enjoy working with young adults who are just finding their way in this world and navigating new relationships and responsibilities. I accept clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, phobias, stress, identity development, assertiveness, anger management, and relationship challenges for those who are heterosexual, LGBTQ, caregivers, and parents.
(484) 209-6486 View (484) 209-6486
Photo of Mallory Grivner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colmar, PA
Mallory Grivner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, ACHP-SW
Verified Verified
Blue Bell, PA 19422  (Online Only)
I have experience supporting individuals who are experiencing life transitions, caregiver stress, chronic and terminal illness and grief and loss.
We all struggle at times and life can feel overwhelming and unmanageable. I am so happy that you are taking the first steps in determining what you need to lead a happier, more fulfilled life. I know how difficult it can be to acknowledge that your life may not what you envisioned and it is a privilege to work through these challenges with you. My goal is to help you transition from a place of struggle to a place of hope by providing a safe and comfortable environment to discuss these personal life challenges. I provide a warm and collaborative approach offering guidance, support, insight, and hope for a more meaningful life.
I have experience supporting individuals who are experiencing life transitions, caregiver stress, chronic and terminal illness and grief and loss.
We all struggle at times and life can feel overwhelming and unmanageable. I am so happy that you are taking the first steps in determining what you need to lead a happier, more fulfilled life. I know how difficult it can be to acknowledge that your life may not what you envisioned and it is a privilege to work through these challenges with you. My goal is to help you transition from a place of struggle to a place of hope by providing a safe and comfortable environment to discuss these personal life challenges. I provide a warm and collaborative approach offering guidance, support, insight, and hope for a more meaningful life.
(267) 405-3396 View (267) 405-3396
Photo of Kayla Larkin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Colmar, PA
Kayla Larkin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Lansdale, PA 19446  (Online Only)
I have always been a natural listener who loves to sit alongside others who are hurting. I am passionate about giving people a safe space to share their voice and be heard. I have experience working with individuals struggling with a variety of mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, self-worth/self-esteem issues, ADHD, relational issues, spiritual issues, sexuality and gender identity concerns, self-harm, trauma, eating disorders, and chronic illness.
I have always been a natural listener who loves to sit alongside others who are hurting. I am passionate about giving people a safe space to share their voice and be heard. I have experience working with individuals struggling with a variety of mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, self-worth/self-esteem issues, ADHD, relational issues, spiritual issues, sexuality and gender identity concerns, self-harm, trauma, eating disorders, and chronic illness.
(267) 656-7578 View (267) 656-7578
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.