Therapists in White Oak, PA
Robyn Gretz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
White Oak, PA 15131 (Online Only)
Do you feel the need to restore balance in your life? Have you reached the point where it feels like something (or everything) needs to change? Maybe your relationships with loved ones are strained, or you are dealing with challenging life transitions. This is a turning point of seeking support as you search for clarity and understanding. We can work collaboratively to evaluate the successful aspects of your life and roadblocks to fulfillment.
Do you feel the need to restore balance in your life? Have you reached the point where it feels like something (or everything) needs to change? Maybe your relationships with loved ones are strained, or you are dealing with challenging life transitions. This is a turning point of seeking support as you search for clarity and understanding. We can work collaboratively to evaluate the successful aspects of your life and roadblocks to fulfillment.
Fran Meenan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
White Oak, PA 15131 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Neither trauma nor depression, panic, grief, workplace stress, or even chronic illness and pain can stop us from feeling restored, reconnected and open to life and relationships.
I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years. Painful past experiences, whether they occurred in childhood or recently, influence our moods, behavior and relationships often in surprising ways. These experiences can intensify depression, anxiety and panic, marital stress, self-esteem issues, health crises and other conditions. I work with those struggling with the difficulties that follow recent and past experiences of stress or abuse. Negotiating the changes in our world and healing some of the broken places in our lives is challenging.
Neither trauma nor depression, panic, grief, workplace stress, or even chronic illness and pain can stop us from feeling restored, reconnected and open to life and relationships.
I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years. Painful past experiences, whether they occurred in childhood or recently, influence our moods, behavior and relationships often in surprising ways. These experiences can intensify depression, anxiety and panic, marital stress, self-esteem issues, health crises and other conditions. I work with those struggling with the difficulties that follow recent and past experiences of stress or abuse. Negotiating the changes in our world and healing some of the broken places in our lives is challenging.
More Therapists Nearby
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.
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.
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.
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.
Elizabeth Krause, Ph.D. Telehealth Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122 (Online Only)
Are you going through a challenging life circumstance making you vulnerable to depression or anxiety? Perhaps you're struggling with a medical diagnosis, trauma, chronic pain, or want to learn more about mindfulness or meditation. I am a dual licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania and Tennessee. I have immediate openings for Telehealth sessions. I offer individual therapy for adults with Depression, Anxiety, Adult ADD, Panic, Sleep Disorders, Chronic Pain, and Trauma. Additional services include Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) DBT, ACT, Self-Hypnosis, Meditation Training, and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.
Are you going through a challenging life circumstance making you vulnerable to depression or anxiety? Perhaps you're struggling with a medical diagnosis, trauma, chronic pain, or want to learn more about mindfulness or meditation. I am a dual licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania and Tennessee. I have immediate openings for Telehealth sessions. I offer individual therapy for adults with Depression, Anxiety, Adult ADD, Panic, Sleep Disorders, Chronic Pain, and Trauma. Additional services include Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) DBT, ACT, Self-Hypnosis, Meditation Training, and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.
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.
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.
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.
Joan McCullough-Crissman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murrysville, PA 15668
Whether you are experiencing workplace reentry, job loss, stress management, or career choices, life transitions, relationships, parenting, or chronic illness; we'll look into why themes repeat themselves and identify new outcomes.
I believe, the single most important element of counseling is the relationship between the therapist and client. The first step is for us to work together to balance both a professional and heartfelt relationship. You'll find the office welcoming, comfortable, discreet atmosphere; where you can feel safe to discuss your needs. I serve a variety of client populations, including, youth, adolescent, adult and geriatric clients. Couples, Family, Individual and Group Therapy are a focus. Specializations: Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Anger, Parenting and Loss. Referrals for medication management can also be facilitated through my office, if desired..
Whether you are experiencing workplace reentry, job loss, stress management, or career choices, life transitions, relationships, parenting, or chronic illness; we'll look into why themes repeat themselves and identify new outcomes.
I believe, the single most important element of counseling is the relationship between the therapist and client. The first step is for us to work together to balance both a professional and heartfelt relationship. You'll find the office welcoming, comfortable, discreet atmosphere; where you can feel safe to discuss your needs. I serve a variety of client populations, including, youth, adolescent, adult and geriatric clients. Couples, Family, Individual and Group Therapy are a focus. Specializations: Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Anger, Parenting and Loss. Referrals for medication management can also be facilitated through my office, if desired..
Breesha Comish
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15122
If you are feeling lost or stuck in life, feeling haunted by a past event, navigating illness, wish to feel closer to your partner or to improve your communication, please me via email welcome@sunpointwellness.
I help couples and individuals work through life’s challenges. I use a caring approach while integrating effective treatment models to help people thrive in life. Specialties Include: Couples Therapy for Desire Differences, Sexual Issues, Communication Issues, Intimacy Conflict, Navigation of Medical dx, and Trauma. I am open to working with individuals and couples who have traditional as well as non-traditional partnerships. I provide a supportive and safe space for individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community. I also specialize in helping young adults recover from childhood trauma and in empowering them to find their own path in life.
If you are feeling lost or stuck in life, feeling haunted by a past event, navigating illness, wish to feel closer to your partner or to improve your communication, please me via email welcome@sunpointwellness.
I help couples and individuals work through life’s challenges. I use a caring approach while integrating effective treatment models to help people thrive in life. Specialties Include: Couples Therapy for Desire Differences, Sexual Issues, Communication Issues, Intimacy Conflict, Navigation of Medical dx, and Trauma. I am open to working with individuals and couples who have traditional as well as non-traditional partnerships. I provide a supportive and safe space for individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community. I also specialize in helping young adults recover from childhood trauma and in empowering them to find their own path in life.
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.
Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
In our collective expertise and collaborative efforts, we provide psychological care for those who are struggling with: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Marital Issues, Family Conflict, Sleep Disturbance, Grief and Loss, Abuse Issues, Chronic Illness, Dementia, Gender Identity Issues, Women's Issues, Men's Issues.
The clinicians of Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates provide outpatient psychotherapeutic care to the people of the greater Pittsburgh area. We are committed to excellence and strive to provide our community with the highest quality of psychological services. We combine professional expertise with personal compassion in our therapeutic care. Our diverse staff and associates offer psychological evaluation and care for children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples and families.
In our collective expertise and collaborative efforts, we provide psychological care for those who are struggling with: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Marital Issues, Family Conflict, Sleep Disturbance, Grief and Loss, Abuse Issues, Chronic Illness, Dementia, Gender Identity Issues, Women's Issues, Men's Issues.
The clinicians of Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates provide outpatient psychotherapeutic care to the people of the greater Pittsburgh area. We are committed to excellence and strive to provide our community with the highest quality of psychological services. We combine professional expertise with personal compassion in our therapeutic care. Our diverse staff and associates offer psychological evaluation and care for children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples and families.
Spencer Kilpatrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235 (Online Only)
Connection to ourselves and others makes us feel whole. Ask yourself now, "Where are my people", "where do I feel as though I am authentically me"? Because mental un-health (our depressions, our anxieties) comes when we are disconnected from those spaces and people. Many factors can disconnect us: death, loss, transition, trauma, heartbreak, stress, abuse, illness, etc. I work with clients across diverse contexts to find reconnection and wholeness despite these disconnectors.
Connection to ourselves and others makes us feel whole. Ask yourself now, "Where are my people", "where do I feel as though I am authentically me"? Because mental un-health (our depressions, our anxieties) comes when we are disconnected from those spaces and people. Many factors can disconnect us: death, loss, transition, trauma, heartbreak, stress, abuse, illness, etc. I work with clients across diverse contexts to find reconnection and wholeness despite these disconnectors.
Martine Saul (Sheherhers)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15240
Martine Saul is a licensed professional counselor with a B.A. in Psychology from Point Park University and a M.S. in Counseling Psychology from Chatham University. Her graduate field placements all took place within hospice and palliative care facilities, and she therefore, has experience and interest working with hospice patients as well doing bereavement, grief and loss counseling with those patients and their loved ones. Martine currently works full-time as a therapist in Private Practice. She has earned her certificate in Gerontology from the University of Pittsburgh. She is also trained in EMDR for trauma-informed care.
Martine Saul is a licensed professional counselor with a B.A. in Psychology from Point Park University and a M.S. in Counseling Psychology from Chatham University. Her graduate field placements all took place within hospice and palliative care facilities, and she therefore, has experience and interest working with hospice patients as well doing bereavement, grief and loss counseling with those patients and their loved ones. Martine currently works full-time as a therapist in Private Practice. She has earned her certificate in Gerontology from the University of Pittsburgh. She is also trained in EMDR for trauma-informed care.
Renee J Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
As a transpersonal, body and gestalt psychotherapist, EMDR and Comprehensive Energy Psychology practitioner, meditation teacher and hypnotherapist, I offer an embodied and integrated approach to therapy, coaching, consultation, and teaching. Our problems and difficulties are opportunities for growth and wisdom, our innate intelligence always knows exactly what we need to transform or heal. Often, we need to undergo a process of compassionately encountering what it is that we find unacceptable, terrifying, or seemingly impossible for us to bear or let go. Paradoxically, these are the things that can lead us into deeper relationship with our true self.
As a transpersonal, body and gestalt psychotherapist, EMDR and Comprehensive Energy Psychology practitioner, meditation teacher and hypnotherapist, I offer an embodied and integrated approach to therapy, coaching, consultation, and teaching. Our problems and difficulties are opportunities for growth and wisdom, our innate intelligence always knows exactly what we need to transform or heal. Often, we need to undergo a process of compassionately encountering what it is that we find unacceptable, terrifying, or seemingly impossible for us to bear or let go. Paradoxically, these are the things that can lead us into deeper relationship with our true self.
The Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Monroeville, PA 15146
Our Counseling and Psychiatric team in Pittsburgh, Wexford, Monroeville, Greensburg, South Hills, Cranberry, and Online, specializes in providing compassionate mental health services for you, your marriage, and family. If you're grappling with anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, ADHD, PTSD, relationship conflicts, communication challenges, or more, we recognize how these issues can impact your desired life. Our counseling team, complemented by telepsychiatry and medication management services, provides evidence-based therapy solutions for you. With personalized treatment plans, our goal is to fast-track your journey to wellness.
Our Counseling and Psychiatric team in Pittsburgh, Wexford, Monroeville, Greensburg, South Hills, Cranberry, and Online, specializes in providing compassionate mental health services for you, your marriage, and family. If you're grappling with anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, ADHD, PTSD, relationship conflicts, communication challenges, or more, we recognize how these issues can impact your desired life. Our counseling team, complemented by telepsychiatry and medication management services, provides evidence-based therapy solutions for you. With personalized treatment plans, our goal is to fast-track your journey to wellness.
Nathaniel Rigby
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15227
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in treating emotional difficulties (e.g., depression, anxiety, anger), complicated grief, relationship issues, and problems with motivation. I provide high quality, meaningful psychotherapy informed by many years of education, training and experience. Your first impression is likely to be that I am patient, warm, and knowledgeable with a lighthearted sense of humor. As we get to know each other, you will find that I am devoted to helping you feel better and I am committed to being straightforward with you so you can be challenged and grow.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in treating emotional difficulties (e.g., depression, anxiety, anger), complicated grief, relationship issues, and problems with motivation. I provide high quality, meaningful psychotherapy informed by many years of education, training and experience. Your first impression is likely to be that I am patient, warm, and knowledgeable with a lighthearted sense of humor. As we get to know each other, you will find that I am devoted to helping you feel better and I am committed to being straightforward with you so you can be challenged and grow.
Caitlin Senk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217 (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is an integrative one that focuses on a person-centered approach. I view the therapeutic relationship as a significant element of change and will collaborate with you in a respectful, nonjudgmental, empathetic, and supportive manner. I believe that our past and current experiences effect our lives in impactful ways and influence our relationship with ourselves and those around us. I aim to empower you by uncovering your strengths and resilience on which we will build a more confident and vivid individual. I am here to help you find your place, feel connected, and reclaim control of your mind and body.
My approach to therapy is an integrative one that focuses on a person-centered approach. I view the therapeutic relationship as a significant element of change and will collaborate with you in a respectful, nonjudgmental, empathetic, and supportive manner. I believe that our past and current experiences effect our lives in impactful ways and influence our relationship with ourselves and those around us. I aim to empower you by uncovering your strengths and resilience on which we will build a more confident and vivid individual. I am here to help you find your place, feel connected, and reclaim control of your mind and body.
See more therapy options for White Oak
Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for White Oak
- Bethel Park
- Irwin
- Jeannette
- Monroeville
- Murrysville
- North Huntingdon
- Penn Hills
- Pittsburgh
- Shadyside
- South Park
- Squirrel Hill
- Swissvale
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.