Chronic Pain Therapists in Swissvale, PA

Photo of Michelle Landau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Swissvale, PA
Michelle Landau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swissvale, PA 15218
I help clients learn to listen to and hear themselves; my interest is in helping you to develop the confidence to recognize and honor your own wisdom and thereby make more effective choices in your life. My clinical experiences have afforded me the opportunity to work with a wide range of clients, including but not limited to those with major depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bi-polar disorder, and grief. If you are interested in gaining insight into your problems and concerns in order to make changes in your life, then our work together will be rewarding for you.
I help clients learn to listen to and hear themselves; my interest is in helping you to develop the confidence to recognize and honor your own wisdom and thereby make more effective choices in your life. My clinical experiences have afforded me the opportunity to work with a wide range of clients, including but not limited to those with major depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bi-polar disorder, and grief. If you are interested in gaining insight into your problems and concerns in order to make changes in your life, then our work together will be rewarding for you.
(412) 253-6173 View (412) 253-6173
Jodi Peppel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CRS
Verified Verified
Swissvale, PA 15218
I have been exploring the healing arts,psychology,spirituality,the mind-body connection, and personal growth both professionally and personally for the past 30 years. My personal healing journey has supported and guided my heart's desire to be a facilitator in guiding others home to their selves. I maintain a private practice as psychotherapist and Certified Rubenfeld Synergist in Pittsburgh,Pa. My practice is eclectic and dynamic. It allows me to explore the depths of my being while facilitating others to do the same. I am a dedicated therapist, dedicated to my growth and the growth of my clients.
I have been exploring the healing arts,psychology,spirituality,the mind-body connection, and personal growth both professionally and personally for the past 30 years. My personal healing journey has supported and guided my heart's desire to be a facilitator in guiding others home to their selves. I maintain a private practice as psychotherapist and Certified Rubenfeld Synergist in Pittsburgh,Pa. My practice is eclectic and dynamic. It allows me to explore the depths of my being while facilitating others to do the same. I am a dedicated therapist, dedicated to my growth and the growth of my clients.
(412) 543-8004 View (412) 543-8004
Photo of Tory Butterworth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Swissvale, PA
Tory Butterworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Swissvale, PA 15218
I specialize in working with women who eat their feelings. I have developed the STOP Eating Your Feelings approach, which differentiates four different patterns of emotional overeating. Distinguishing these four types helps compulsive eaters to identify the reasons why they binge and to target the particular patterns they need to change in order to move beyond compulsive overeating. I also work with clients with anxiety, depression, workplace stress, those healing from grief or trauma or trying to sort out the effects of growing up in a dysfunctional family.
I specialize in working with women who eat their feelings. I have developed the STOP Eating Your Feelings approach, which differentiates four different patterns of emotional overeating. Distinguishing these four types helps compulsive eaters to identify the reasons why they binge and to target the particular patterns they need to change in order to move beyond compulsive overeating. I also work with clients with anxiety, depression, workplace stress, those healing from grief or trauma or trying to sort out the effects of growing up in a dysfunctional family.
(412) 545-6451 View (412) 545-6451
Photo of Isaly Counseling Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Swissvale, PA
Isaly Counseling Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LPC, RN, AT, CAADC
Verified Verified
Swissvale, PA 15218
ICA is a group of dedicated mental and behavioral health professions who offer counseling and substance abuse services to adults, children, couples, and families in a supportive environment. Our providers are highly qualified and experienced professionals who treat each client with compassion, dignity, and respect while helping each to work through areas of concern. We believe that help begins with a strong therapist/client relationship in order to achieve long-term results and as such, each approach is personalized and tailored to the specific need of the client. We have an additional office in Swissvale at 2033 Noble St.
ICA is a group of dedicated mental and behavioral health professions who offer counseling and substance abuse services to adults, children, couples, and families in a supportive environment. Our providers are highly qualified and experienced professionals who treat each client with compassion, dignity, and respect while helping each to work through areas of concern. We believe that help begins with a strong therapist/client relationship in order to achieve long-term results and as such, each approach is personalized and tailored to the specific need of the client. We have an additional office in Swissvale at 2033 Noble St.
(412) 369-4285 View (412) 369-4285
Photo of Patrick S Gann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Swissvale, PA
Patrick S Gann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Swissvale, PA 15218
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Whether you're a newcomer, or you've searched high and low for a therapist or counselor to help you through your struggles, I invite you to consider how I might be able to help. Perhaps you are struggling with a chronic mental health condition; perhaps you have experienced a significant stressor or trauma and need help processing it all. You may want insight on how to lessen your suffering, or how to overcome a challenge. Perhaps the intersection of belief and identity is a concern of yours. If any of this sounds like what you're experiencing, I am so glad you found your way here -- I want to help.
Welcome! Whether you're a newcomer, or you've searched high and low for a therapist or counselor to help you through your struggles, I invite you to consider how I might be able to help. Perhaps you are struggling with a chronic mental health condition; perhaps you have experienced a significant stressor or trauma and need help processing it all. You may want insight on how to lessen your suffering, or how to overcome a challenge. Perhaps the intersection of belief and identity is a concern of yours. If any of this sounds like what you're experiencing, I am so glad you found your way here -- I want to help.
(717) 276-4891 View (717) 276-4891

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sheri Goldstrohm, Psychologist in Swissvale, PA
Sheri Goldstrohm
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Dr. Sheri Goldstrohm has over 25 years of experience providing psychological services in diverse settings and across the age spectrum. She has experience in health psychology; crisis management and Critical Incident Stress Management; community mental health; integrated care; death, dying and bereavement; and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). Dr. Goldstrohm's areas of clinical expertise include women's issues, behavioral pain management, integrated care with a focus on maximizing health and wellness for individuals with chronic health conditions, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and life transitions.
Dr. Sheri Goldstrohm has over 25 years of experience providing psychological services in diverse settings and across the age spectrum. She has experience in health psychology; crisis management and Critical Incident Stress Management; community mental health; integrated care; death, dying and bereavement; and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). Dr. Goldstrohm's areas of clinical expertise include women's issues, behavioral pain management, integrated care with a focus on maximizing health and wellness for individuals with chronic health conditions, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and life transitions.
(412) 212-0469 View (412) 212-0469
Photo of Amy Gamble-Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Swissvale, PA
Amy Gamble-Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
With over 17 years of experience in psychotherapy, I specialize in treating issues related to trauma, spiritual & religious abuse, chronic illness/pain, eating disorders and grief & loss.
Have you been feeling lonely, disconnected or not like yourself? Maybe there are issues from the past that you haven't dealt with that you would like to heal without feeling overwhelmed. Possibly you feel swept away by your emotions and don't know how to get them under control. Perhaps you are feeling stuck, frustrated or tired. Oftentimes these issues can lead to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. My specialty is in helping you identify & address the root issues, develop the skills to deal with those issues, while getting in better relationship with yourself.
With over 17 years of experience in psychotherapy, I specialize in treating issues related to trauma, spiritual & religious abuse, chronic illness/pain, eating disorders and grief & loss.
Have you been feeling lonely, disconnected or not like yourself? Maybe there are issues from the past that you haven't dealt with that you would like to heal without feeling overwhelmed. Possibly you feel swept away by your emotions and don't know how to get them under control. Perhaps you are feeling stuck, frustrated or tired. Oftentimes these issues can lead to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. My specialty is in helping you identify & address the root issues, develop the skills to deal with those issues, while getting in better relationship with yourself.
(412) 285-1402 View (412) 285-1402
Photo of Joanne R Bissell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Swissvale, PA
Joanne R Bissell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCM, CMIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I believe in a holistic approach which respects the importance of a healthy mind, body, and spirit. My client base includes individuals with chronic illness and pain, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and stage of life issues.
I believe in a holistic approach which respects the importance of a healthy mind, body, and spirit. My client base includes individuals with chronic illness and pain, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and stage of life issues.
(412) 214-7114 View (412) 214-7114
Photo of Stephanie M. Vargo in Swissvale, PA
Stephanie M. Vargo
MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
I currently work with healing systems that have proven effective for issues like anxiety, trauma, addiction, chronic illness and pain, and spiritual crisis.
I offer experience, compassion and respect to all clients. I have over 35 years experience as a psychotherapist specializing in existentialism, philosophy, Ericksonian hypnosis, the treatment of addiction, trauma and loss. I am a Reiki Master and am trained in other mind/body/energy treatment modalities. I have taught existential/phenomenological philosophy and treatment classes. I specialize in mind/body work and can teach you to manage stress, increase awareness, gain confidence and overcome obstacles in your life. I have a gentle and powerful demeanor that increases energy and motivation. I offer a non-traditional approach.
I currently work with healing systems that have proven effective for issues like anxiety, trauma, addiction, chronic illness and pain, and spiritual crisis.
I offer experience, compassion and respect to all clients. I have over 35 years experience as a psychotherapist specializing in existentialism, philosophy, Ericksonian hypnosis, the treatment of addiction, trauma and loss. I am a Reiki Master and am trained in other mind/body/energy treatment modalities. I have taught existential/phenomenological philosophy and treatment classes. I specialize in mind/body work and can teach you to manage stress, increase awareness, gain confidence and overcome obstacles in your life. I have a gentle and powerful demeanor that increases energy and motivation. I offer a non-traditional approach.
(412) 253-4569 View (412) 253-4569
Photo of Katherine Hammond Holtz, Psychologist in Swissvale, PA
Katherine Hammond Holtz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals who are interested in promoting well-being in themselves and in relation to others. Mindfulness instruction is available as a key component of my therapy should this focus be desired. Studies have shown that a regular practice of mindfulness supports an enriched experience of life, feelings of well being, better ability to cope with stress and pain, reduced panic, anxiety, and fear and better concentration. I currently only offer tele-health, accessible from the comfort of your own home or office.
I enjoy working with individuals who are interested in promoting well-being in themselves and in relation to others. Mindfulness instruction is available as a key component of my therapy should this focus be desired. Studies have shown that a regular practice of mindfulness supports an enriched experience of life, feelings of well being, better ability to cope with stress and pain, reduced panic, anxiety, and fear and better concentration. I currently only offer tele-health, accessible from the comfort of your own home or office.
(412) 593-2307 View (412) 593-2307
Photo of Casey Harvilla, Licensed Professional Counselor in Swissvale, PA
Casey Harvilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing trauma, anxiety, and depression, as well as adolescents living with chronic pain and illness.
Life can be chaotic, overwhelming, and leave us feeling stuck or questioning what to do next. These feelings can be difficult to describe and process on our own, and you shouldn’t feel alone in your journey. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am trained in using art making and creativity within the therapeutic process to serve as an option when words are not enough. My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet you where you are in your healing process and provide you with the tools to reclaim the chaos in your life and begin experiencing life the way you deserve.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing trauma, anxiety, and depression, as well as adolescents living with chronic pain and illness.
Life can be chaotic, overwhelming, and leave us feeling stuck or questioning what to do next. These feelings can be difficult to describe and process on our own, and you shouldn’t feel alone in your journey. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am trained in using art making and creativity within the therapeutic process to serve as an option when words are not enough. My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet you where you are in your healing process and provide you with the tools to reclaim the chaos in your life and begin experiencing life the way you deserve.
View
Photo of Carter Cunningham, Pre-Licensed Professional in Swissvale, PA
Carter Cunningham
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
While I am excited to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, I have a special interest in supporting those who experience chronic conditions such as pain, grief, cancer, psychosis, and trauma.
I am passionate about helping individuals on their path to self-discovery and leading a genuine and authentic life. Drawing upon my background in counseling and neuroscience, I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and existentialism into my approach. I aim to help individuals cultivate openness, awareness, and engagement with themselves, their loved ones, and the world around them. By incorporating meditation, relevant literature, art, and nature, I aim to create a holistic therapeutic experience. These elements enrich the exploration of subjective experiences, self-perception, and the profound aspects of existence.
While I am excited to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, I have a special interest in supporting those who experience chronic conditions such as pain, grief, cancer, psychosis, and trauma.
I am passionate about helping individuals on their path to self-discovery and leading a genuine and authentic life. Drawing upon my background in counseling and neuroscience, I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and existentialism into my approach. I aim to help individuals cultivate openness, awareness, and engagement with themselves, their loved ones, and the world around them. By incorporating meditation, relevant literature, art, and nature, I aim to create a holistic therapeutic experience. These elements enrich the exploration of subjective experiences, self-perception, and the profound aspects of existence.
(412) 960-1185 View (412) 960-1185
Photo of Gwen F Melnick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Swissvale, PA
Gwen F Melnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
(412) 356-9859 View (412) 356-9859
Photo of Megan Dufford, Psychologist in Swissvale, PA
Megan Dufford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217  (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, identity concerns, grief/loss, chronic illness, and women's issues are a sampling of concerns I find meaning in helping clients navigate.
Many find psychotherapy useful as a space to explore stressors and difficulties, learn new ways to cope with hardships, and ultimately make changes to enhance quality of life. I remain focused on providing support to each client and incorporate techniques aimed to alleviate distress, foster resilience, and help one move closer to achieving their goals. I utilize an integrative approach including person-centered, supportive, CBT, and/or psychodynamic techniques, always tailoring my style to meet each client's unique needs.
Anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, identity concerns, grief/loss, chronic illness, and women's issues are a sampling of concerns I find meaning in helping clients navigate.
Many find psychotherapy useful as a space to explore stressors and difficulties, learn new ways to cope with hardships, and ultimately make changes to enhance quality of life. I remain focused on providing support to each client and incorporate techniques aimed to alleviate distress, foster resilience, and help one move closer to achieving their goals. I utilize an integrative approach including person-centered, supportive, CBT, and/or psychodynamic techniques, always tailoring my style to meet each client's unique needs.
(412) 253-7125 View (412) 253-7125
Photo of Peace and Perspective Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Swissvale, PA
Peace and Perspective Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I specialize in addressing addiction, trauma, life transitions, grief/loss, chronic pain/medical issues, depression and anxiety among other life concerns.
In these times of uncertainty, everyone could use a little support. As a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment, I'm here to support you, whether you're looking to learn how to better manage stress, a chronic health condition, heal trauma, resolve family conflict, substance abuse/dependency, grief/loss, or manage a mood disorder. We partner together to tailor therapy that addresses your individual needs. Change is always possible and I'd be honored to be a part of your journey.
I specialize in addressing addiction, trauma, life transitions, grief/loss, chronic pain/medical issues, depression and anxiety among other life concerns.
In these times of uncertainty, everyone could use a little support. As a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment, I'm here to support you, whether you're looking to learn how to better manage stress, a chronic health condition, heal trauma, resolve family conflict, substance abuse/dependency, grief/loss, or manage a mood disorder. We partner together to tailor therapy that addresses your individual needs. Change is always possible and I'd be honored to be a part of your journey.
(878) 216-0339 View (878) 216-0339
Photo of David Gresko, Licensed Professional Counselor in Swissvale, PA
David Gresko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
My goal in working with you is to instill a sense of hope and give you a vision for the future, even in the midst of the pain and difficulty we all experience in life.
I look at each client as a unique individual who requires tailor made and personal treatment. This means that each person I work with receives individualized treatment designed specifically for them and their unique circumstances and history. Currently, I am seeing adult and teenage clients (ages 14+) for individual therapy. My primary areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Obsessions and Compulsions, Guilt, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Life Coaching, Career Counseling, Vocational Discernment, and Christian Counseling.
My goal in working with you is to instill a sense of hope and give you a vision for the future, even in the midst of the pain and difficulty we all experience in life.
I look at each client as a unique individual who requires tailor made and personal treatment. This means that each person I work with receives individualized treatment designed specifically for them and their unique circumstances and history. Currently, I am seeing adult and teenage clients (ages 14+) for individual therapy. My primary areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Obsessions and Compulsions, Guilt, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Life Coaching, Career Counseling, Vocational Discernment, and Christian Counseling.
(412) 385-6997 View (412) 385-6997
Photo of Kate Rudd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Swissvale, PA
Kate Rudd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Change, even good change, is hard. Life transitions happen to all of us and sometimes we need help managing it. Together, we will find your path toward healing and growth, based on your innate self-compassion, dignity, and courage.
Change, even good change, is hard. Life transitions happen to all of us and sometimes we need help managing it. Together, we will find your path toward healing and growth, based on your innate self-compassion, dignity, and courage.
(412) 900-8251 View (412) 900-8251
Photo of Grace Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Swissvale, PA
Grace Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
We are a group of Christian Counselors who treat clients of all ages through Biblical truth and the healing power of God's grace. We integrate the best from the discipline of psychology with Christian counseling to help people find peace and contentment. We have counselors who specialize in addictions, attachment and trauma issues, grief, relationships, children, parenting, depression, anxiety and most other issues. Our organization has several centers throughout western PA. Please visit our website to see if we have a location that will meet your needs. www.thegracewellnesscenter.com
We are a group of Christian Counselors who treat clients of all ages through Biblical truth and the healing power of God's grace. We integrate the best from the discipline of psychology with Christian counseling to help people find peace and contentment. We have counselors who specialize in addictions, attachment and trauma issues, grief, relationships, children, parenting, depression, anxiety and most other issues. Our organization has several centers throughout western PA. Please visit our website to see if we have a location that will meet your needs. www.thegracewellnesscenter.com
(724) 906-4319 View (724) 906-4319
Photo of Dorothy Cashore, Psychologist in Swissvale, PA
Dorothy Cashore
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
I bring over a decade of experience to my practice, where I work with a wide range of struggles. I bring special expertise to self-image/self-esteem issues, trauma, and grief. As a holistic practitioner, I don’t limit my focus to treating symptoms or replacing behaviors. I work with body, spirit, heart, and gut, offering a space where you can step into a transformed relationship with yourself. I go underneath strategies and tools to help you develop inner resources, listen to your body and nervous system, let go of what no longer serves you, and bring new energy and clarity to your most important connections.
I bring over a decade of experience to my practice, where I work with a wide range of struggles. I bring special expertise to self-image/self-esteem issues, trauma, and grief. As a holistic practitioner, I don’t limit my focus to treating symptoms or replacing behaviors. I work with body, spirit, heart, and gut, offering a space where you can step into a transformed relationship with yourself. I go underneath strategies and tools to help you develop inner resources, listen to your body and nervous system, let go of what no longer serves you, and bring new energy and clarity to your most important connections.
View
Photo of Christine Kobik, Licensed Professional Counselor in Swissvale, PA
Christine Kobik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAAT, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I believe that every person has the innate ability to heal, grow, and overcome even the most challenging of situations. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist and Gestalt Therapist I work to help people find their own inner strength, overcome challenges and improve relationships. I use mindfulness training, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and have completed the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh’s two year training program. My goal is to help you to find your own inner path to healing so that you will always know how to take care of yourself no matter what may come your way.
I believe that every person has the innate ability to heal, grow, and overcome even the most challenging of situations. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist and Gestalt Therapist I work to help people find their own inner strength, overcome challenges and improve relationships. I use mindfulness training, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and have completed the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh’s two year training program. My goal is to help you to find your own inner path to healing so that you will always know how to take care of yourself no matter what may come your way.
(412) 960-8427 View (412) 960-8427
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.