Chronic Pain Therapists in Lewistown, PA

Photo of Fred Benner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lewistown, PA
Fred Benner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CAADC, SAP
Verified Verified
Lewistown, PA 17044
I am accepting Face-2-Face AND telehealth clients. I am equipped to provide HIPAA compliant telehealth services by voice or video. This has now been approved by all insurance carriers, and is an option which extends flexibility, but our office is also open . I have broad experience in working with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, substance use disorders, and families struggling with addiction. I also help those with problems caused by alcohol or drugs, couples trying to save a relationship. and those in child custody disputes because of divorce or separation. I also help with process addictions like gambling and pornography.
I am accepting Face-2-Face AND telehealth clients. I am equipped to provide HIPAA compliant telehealth services by voice or video. This has now been approved by all insurance carriers, and is an option which extends flexibility, but our office is also open . I have broad experience in working with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, substance use disorders, and families struggling with addiction. I also help those with problems caused by alcohol or drugs, couples trying to save a relationship. and those in child custody disputes because of divorce or separation. I also help with process addictions like gambling and pornography.
(717) 889-7152 View (717) 889-7152
Photo of Mana Life Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lewistown, PA
Mana Life Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewistown, PA 17044
Having a compassionate counselor on your side during stressful times can be a great comfort. Whether you’re facing general stress, anxiety or depression Mana Life Counseling is here for you. Together, you’ll break down obstacles in your life and build a personal toolbox of coping strategies. Compassion and understanding are both key strategies in our approach, and through them, you’ll learn how to forge your way forward.
Having a compassionate counselor on your side during stressful times can be a great comfort. Whether you’re facing general stress, anxiety or depression Mana Life Counseling is here for you. Together, you’ll break down obstacles in your life and build a personal toolbox of coping strategies. Compassion and understanding are both key strategies in our approach, and through them, you’ll learn how to forge your way forward.
(814) 325-9284 View (814) 325-9284

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michael Raskind, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lewistown, PA
Michael Raskind
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mifflin, PA 17058  (Online Only)
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with.
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with.
(717) 807-5614 View (717) 807-5614

Online Therapists

Photo of Debra Lynn Thompson-Knepper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lewistown, PA
Debra Lynn Thompson-Knepper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CCPG
Verified Verified
Pine Grove, PA 17963
Debra Thompson-Knepper has over 20 years experience working with people who have mental illness and addictions. She believes that it is the therapist's responsibility to have as many therapeutic tools as possible to share with clients to help them achieve their goals. Whether it's development of insight to know the self better and live more successfully or targeted therapy to address a specific marital or individual issue, Debbie shares all her knowledge and tools for your success. Good therapy is built on the client's relationship with the therapist and this is the foundation of all growth.
Debra Thompson-Knepper has over 20 years experience working with people who have mental illness and addictions. She believes that it is the therapist's responsibility to have as many therapeutic tools as possible to share with clients to help them achieve their goals. Whether it's development of insight to know the self better and live more successfully or targeted therapy to address a specific marital or individual issue, Debbie shares all her knowledge and tools for your success. Good therapy is built on the client's relationship with the therapist and this is the foundation of all growth.
(570) 234-3476 View (570) 234-3476
Photo of Elizabeth (Beth) Browning, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lewistown, PA
Elizabeth (Beth) Browning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lemoyne, PA 17043
I have over twenty years’ experience working with individuals and families in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, illness, parenting, and much more.
At some point, you may find yourself in need of a little extra support. Maybe someone non-judgmental to listen to you and to hear what you have to say. Perhaps you need a safe space to process something with a therapist who can help you find your own answers. If you are feeling out of control or if you are struggling with life’s challenges, seeking help is an excellent way to start the process of healing. Together, however, we can work collaboratively to identify and reach your goals to create essential changes in your life.
I have over twenty years’ experience working with individuals and families in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, illness, parenting, and much more.
At some point, you may find yourself in need of a little extra support. Maybe someone non-judgmental to listen to you and to hear what you have to say. Perhaps you need a safe space to process something with a therapist who can help you find your own answers. If you are feeling out of control or if you are struggling with life’s challenges, seeking help is an excellent way to start the process of healing. Together, however, we can work collaboratively to identify and reach your goals to create essential changes in your life.
(717) 229-0418 View (717) 229-0418
Photo of Jared L Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lewistown, PA
Jared L Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, CAADC, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Camp Hill, PA 17011
My counseling practice focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and communication within families, couples and individuals. My passion is helping clients manage life transitions, loss, anxiety, anger, depression, family conflict, addictions, and chronic illness. I approach therapy in a collaborative process, your participation plays an integral role in how therapy progresses. Together, we will establish goals and plans that we feel are attainable and will best meet your needs. I believe individuals and families are capable of making meaningful changes in their lives based on strengths they already possess. Our work together will enhance your existing resources.
My counseling practice focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and communication within families, couples and individuals. My passion is helping clients manage life transitions, loss, anxiety, anger, depression, family conflict, addictions, and chronic illness. I approach therapy in a collaborative process, your participation plays an integral role in how therapy progresses. Together, we will establish goals and plans that we feel are attainable and will best meet your needs. I believe individuals and families are capable of making meaningful changes in their lives based on strengths they already possess. Our work together will enhance your existing resources.
(717) 553-1958 View (717) 553-1958
Photo of Jennifer Ewald, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lewistown, PA
Jennifer Ewald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC, CCTP, CET1
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wernersville, PA 19565
Looking to make positive changes? Sick of getting stuck in the same patterns and need a way out? I'm here to help you on your journey toward healing and being your best self. Whether its issues from childhood, the recent past, or present, I'm here to help you work through them and move forward. My passion is in trauma and family of origin issues. I also have vast experience with substance abuse issues, mental health disorders, pain management, and anger. I have worked with teens and adults, men & women. If you're willing to work on yourself, I can walk with you on your path toward change.
Looking to make positive changes? Sick of getting stuck in the same patterns and need a way out? I'm here to help you on your journey toward healing and being your best self. Whether its issues from childhood, the recent past, or present, I'm here to help you work through them and move forward. My passion is in trauma and family of origin issues. I also have vast experience with substance abuse issues, mental health disorders, pain management, and anger. I have worked with teens and adults, men & women. If you're willing to work on yourself, I can walk with you on your path toward change.
(610) 200-6950 View (610) 200-6950
Photo of Sarah Miller LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lewistown, PA
Sarah Miller LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17102
I have more than 10 years of experience in the medical and mental health fields, with specific focus on coping with illness, depression, anxiety, grief and loss.
Navigating these challenging times can often feel impossible. You’re not alone! Whether you are grieving the loss of a dear friend or loved one, coping with changes in relationships and routines, facing a chronic illness that is making it hard to even get out of bed some days, or you just feel stuck, overwhelmed, and don’t see a way through your circumstances, I’m here to help! Together, we can develop tools that will prove to be a steady anchor, allowing you to weather life’s future storms.
I have more than 10 years of experience in the medical and mental health fields, with specific focus on coping with illness, depression, anxiety, grief and loss.
Navigating these challenging times can often feel impossible. You’re not alone! Whether you are grieving the loss of a dear friend or loved one, coping with changes in relationships and routines, facing a chronic illness that is making it hard to even get out of bed some days, or you just feel stuck, overwhelmed, and don’t see a way through your circumstances, I’m here to help! Together, we can develop tools that will prove to be a steady anchor, allowing you to weather life’s future storms.
(717) 937-8065 View (717) 937-8065
Photo of Tara Elliot, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lewistown, PA
Tara Elliot
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
Sinking Spring, PA 19608  (Online Only)
I strive to create a safe, supportive environment to explore many of life's difficulties including complex trauma, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship/attachment issues, self-esteem, chronic illness, phobias, loss & grief, mood disorders, & spiritual issues. Using an integrated approach, I incorporate different styles and techniques tailored to each individual's needs supporting the whole person with a mind-body-spirit approach. Working together, we increase self-awareness through the use of breathwork, meditation, and mindfulness as we facilitate the process of psychological & emotional healing.
I strive to create a safe, supportive environment to explore many of life's difficulties including complex trauma, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship/attachment issues, self-esteem, chronic illness, phobias, loss & grief, mood disorders, & spiritual issues. Using an integrated approach, I incorporate different styles and techniques tailored to each individual's needs supporting the whole person with a mind-body-spirit approach. Working together, we increase self-awareness through the use of breathwork, meditation, and mindfulness as we facilitate the process of psychological & emotional healing.
(610) 756-0896 View (610) 756-0896
Photo of Kristen L. Shipsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lewistown, PA
Kristen L. Shipsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CDP
Verified Verified
Luzerne, PA 18709
Do you struggle with feelings that affect your relationships? Do you put your needs at the bottom of your to-do list? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed while trying to find their place in the world. Ignoring your needs and giving too much of yourself can lead to long-term issues for the mind and body. Therapy is a perfect way to learn more about yourself and take control of your life. I specialize in working with adults who are motivated and ready to learn more about themselves. Are you a caregiver for someone with a chronic illness or dementia? I have vast experience helping caregivers cope with life's challenges.
Do you struggle with feelings that affect your relationships? Do you put your needs at the bottom of your to-do list? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed while trying to find their place in the world. Ignoring your needs and giving too much of yourself can lead to long-term issues for the mind and body. Therapy is a perfect way to learn more about yourself and take control of your life. I specialize in working with adults who are motivated and ready to learn more about themselves. Are you a caregiver for someone with a chronic illness or dementia? I have vast experience helping caregivers cope with life's challenges.
(570) 487-3220 View (570) 487-3220
Photo of Dr. Robert B Frazier, Psychologist in Lewistown, PA
Dr. Robert B Frazier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
I have over 30 years of experience. I specialize in working with individuals with chronic pain, chronic medical problems, depression and anxiety. I also have experience in working with individuals with thought disorder and psychosis. I perform neuropsychological and psychological evaluations.
I have over 30 years of experience. I specialize in working with individuals with chronic pain, chronic medical problems, depression and anxiety. I also have experience in working with individuals with thought disorder and psychosis. I perform neuropsychological and psychological evaluations.
(717) 696-1091 View (717) 696-1091
Heritage Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Gettysburg, PA 17325  (Online Only)
Clients ages sixteen through the lifespan are considered for acceptance. I counsel people dealing anxiety, depression, acute stress disorder, PTSD, mood management, grief, loss, suicide of a family member or friend, divorce, relationship issues, chronic or terminal illness, homelessness or domestic abuse. Counseling provides education, and supportive insight so that clients are able to develop healthier coping skills. I provide education and relapse prevention skills for clients with substance abuse and DUI issues. Referrals are made for clients who need more intensive care, due to advanced substance abuse.
Clients ages sixteen through the lifespan are considered for acceptance. I counsel people dealing anxiety, depression, acute stress disorder, PTSD, mood management, grief, loss, suicide of a family member or friend, divorce, relationship issues, chronic or terminal illness, homelessness or domestic abuse. Counseling provides education, and supportive insight so that clients are able to develop healthier coping skills. I provide education and relapse prevention skills for clients with substance abuse and DUI issues. Referrals are made for clients who need more intensive care, due to advanced substance abuse.
(717) 524-4598 View (717) 524-4598
Photo of LaTasha Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lewistown, PA
LaTasha Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shillington, PA 19607
Are you having trouble navigating difficult times? Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Has life become overwhelming? If so, I can help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Yoga Teacher that uses a combination of traditional clinical techniques, as well as mindfulness and movement, to assist in the unpacking and healing of emotional baggage and pain. If you or a loved one are looking to relieve emotional strain and tension or regain your personal power and authenticity, I am the professional for you.
Are you having trouble navigating difficult times? Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Has life become overwhelming? If so, I can help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Yoga Teacher that uses a combination of traditional clinical techniques, as well as mindfulness and movement, to assist in the unpacking and healing of emotional baggage and pain. If you or a loved one are looking to relieve emotional strain and tension or regain your personal power and authenticity, I am the professional for you.
(484) 685-4335 View (484) 685-4335
Photo of Sage Stevens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lewistown, PA
Sage Stevens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lemont, PA 16851  (Online Only)
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, eating disorders, chronic pain, kink/poly/sex workers, PTSD, self-harm, and suicidality.
I’m glad you found my page! My name is Sage (they/them). Have you ever felt outcast from those around you, or less than others based on the intersectionality of your identities and how you present yourself? You may feel that nobody will understand that coming out later in life is possible- you are not alone. As a non-binary, pan, ace, neurodivergent and disabled therapist, I have lived experience with where you are right now. When you come to see me, you will be met with non-judgment, empathy, connection, and compassion. You are always welcome to come as you are. Outside the therapy room I love nature, dance, and fostering animals!
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, eating disorders, chronic pain, kink/poly/sex workers, PTSD, self-harm, and suicidality.
I’m glad you found my page! My name is Sage (they/them). Have you ever felt outcast from those around you, or less than others based on the intersectionality of your identities and how you present yourself? You may feel that nobody will understand that coming out later in life is possible- you are not alone. As a non-binary, pan, ace, neurodivergent and disabled therapist, I have lived experience with where you are right now. When you come to see me, you will be met with non-judgment, empathy, connection, and compassion. You are always welcome to come as you are. Outside the therapy room I love nature, dance, and fostering animals!
(814) 980-6286 View (814) 980-6286
Photo of Destiny Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lewistown, PA
Destiny Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17109
My areas of expertise are stress and anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness, and chronic pain.
Sometimes we have a clear view of the problem and other times we only know that something just does not feel right. My goal is to help your child unravel issues and confusing emotions to move towards healing. I will work with you as the parent during your child's treatment process to provide you with tools to utilize at home. I am a highly experienced therapist who specializes in working with parents, teens, and tweens.
My areas of expertise are stress and anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness, and chronic pain.
Sometimes we have a clear view of the problem and other times we only know that something just does not feel right. My goal is to help your child unravel issues and confusing emotions to move towards healing. I will work with you as the parent during your child's treatment process to provide you with tools to utilize at home. I am a highly experienced therapist who specializes in working with parents, teens, and tweens.
(972) 460-6346 View (972) 460-6346
Photo of Heart for Change Counseling Services, Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lewistown, PA
Heart for Change Counseling Services, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602
With different therapists having different specialties, our focus ranges on a wide variety of topics including addiction issues, adoption and foster care trauma, anxiety, chronic pain and illness, codependency, depression,, faith-based issues, grief and loss, life stress, abuse, trauma, and work-related issues.
At Heart for Change Counseling Services, we value finding darkness in the world and bringing light. We treat all people with dignity and respect, maintain an environment free from judgement, and provide a team-approach to ensure those who walk through our doors feel valued, supported, and heard. We believe in making quality services affordable regardless of insurance.
With different therapists having different specialties, our focus ranges on a wide variety of topics including addiction issues, adoption and foster care trauma, anxiety, chronic pain and illness, codependency, depression,, faith-based issues, grief and loss, life stress, abuse, trauma, and work-related issues.
At Heart for Change Counseling Services, we value finding darkness in the world and bringing light. We treat all people with dignity and respect, maintain an environment free from judgement, and provide a team-approach to ensure those who walk through our doors feel valued, supported, and heard. We believe in making quality services affordable regardless of insurance.
(717) 546-9257 View (717) 546-9257
Photo of Balanced Life Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lewistown, PA
Balanced Life Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LMT, NCHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
We are an evidence-based practice, working from theoretical approaches of EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Person Centered, Integrated Pain Management, Internal Family Systems and Attachment-focused Therapy.
It is our belief that we all have the capacity to change, heal and recover from all the things that life can throw at us. At Balanced Life Counseling, we strive to create a warm, welcoming, and trusting environment which allows us to work together towards your goals. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the pressures and stress of life? Has communication been difficult lately? Are you looking for support to navigate challenging situations or circumstances? Sometimes, it's about something more than change. It's about growth and we are passionate about joining with our clients in a safe and collaborative space to help empower their growth.
We are an evidence-based practice, working from theoretical approaches of EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Person Centered, Integrated Pain Management, Internal Family Systems and Attachment-focused Therapy.
It is our belief that we all have the capacity to change, heal and recover from all the things that life can throw at us. At Balanced Life Counseling, we strive to create a warm, welcoming, and trusting environment which allows us to work together towards your goals. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the pressures and stress of life? Has communication been difficult lately? Are you looking for support to navigate challenging situations or circumstances? Sometimes, it's about something more than change. It's about growth and we are passionate about joining with our clients in a safe and collaborative space to help empower their growth.
(717) 539-4178 View (717) 539-4178
Photo of Michelle Wegman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lewistown, PA
Michelle Wegman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Petersburg, PA 17520
Life may not be turning out as you thought it would. Disappointments, failed expectations, trauma, tragedy or loss may make up part of your story that you have had a hard time accepting and moving on from. Or maybe you have dealt with a pervasive challenge like anxiety or depression that seems to be deeply rooted, and is disrupting your life. I believe that you can learn how to move through these challenges by processing the pain, gaining deeper insight about yourself and learning strategies along the way. This will improve how you view yourself, and others and help you to make the changes you want to keep moving forward.
Life may not be turning out as you thought it would. Disappointments, failed expectations, trauma, tragedy or loss may make up part of your story that you have had a hard time accepting and moving on from. Or maybe you have dealt with a pervasive challenge like anxiety or depression that seems to be deeply rooted, and is disrupting your life. I believe that you can learn how to move through these challenges by processing the pain, gaining deeper insight about yourself and learning strategies along the way. This will improve how you view yourself, and others and help you to make the changes you want to keep moving forward.
(717) 912-8274 View (717) 912-8274
Photo of TriCounty Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lewistown, PA
TriCounty Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CSP
Verified Verified
Morgantown, PA 19543
Thank you for considering my professional counseling services. No matter what has brought you here today, you have just taken your first step toward a successful change in your life. If you are suffering from a divorce, illness or loss, depression, anxiety, ADD, developmental issues, anger, or a disruption or transition in your life or your child's life; allow me to help you. As a therapist, I will utilize a warm, confidential, non-judgemental approach to assisting you with your issue. I enjoy helping children, adolescents and adults understand and cope with their issues. Together, we find solutions so you can meet your goals.
Thank you for considering my professional counseling services. No matter what has brought you here today, you have just taken your first step toward a successful change in your life. If you are suffering from a divorce, illness or loss, depression, anxiety, ADD, developmental issues, anger, or a disruption or transition in your life or your child's life; allow me to help you. As a therapist, I will utilize a warm, confidential, non-judgemental approach to assisting you with your issue. I enjoy helping children, adolescents and adults understand and cope with their issues. Together, we find solutions so you can meet your goals.
(484) 271-6738 View (484) 271-6738
Photo of Rebecca Zumba, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lewistown, PA
Rebecca Zumba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lititz, PA 17543
As many of my clients struggle with chronic pain, I help to identify and address the many physical and emotional layers that can be involved in learning to manage these issues.
At some point in life, many of us struggle with a loss of joy and purpose in response to challenges such as pain, illness, trauma, life transitions, and other major stressors. I can help you stop fighting yourself and create a more peaceful and meaningful life. I see therapy as a dialogue, with us exploring together what works and is important for you. As a skills-based, solution-focused therapist, my clients often find that our work helps them better understand themselves and their patterns, and develop new, more effective ways of coping with challenges.
As many of my clients struggle with chronic pain, I help to identify and address the many physical and emotional layers that can be involved in learning to manage these issues.
At some point in life, many of us struggle with a loss of joy and purpose in response to challenges such as pain, illness, trauma, life transitions, and other major stressors. I can help you stop fighting yourself and create a more peaceful and meaningful life. I see therapy as a dialogue, with us exploring together what works and is important for you. As a skills-based, solution-focused therapist, my clients often find that our work helps them better understand themselves and their patterns, and develop new, more effective ways of coping with challenges.
(717) 455-3379 View (717) 455-3379

See more therapy options for Lewistown

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.