Chronic Pain Therapists in Omaha, NE

Photo of Jessica Dillon, MS, PLMHP, Counselor
Jessica Dillon
Counselor, MS, PLMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68104
“Live life to the fullest.” “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” “When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on.” These are great, but life is more complex than cliché quotes. As your counselor, it is my pleasure to partner with you to find real joy in life again. True freedom does take work and can feel terrible as you work through the pain, but is it worth it? 100%! You are worthy of happiness, freedom, and wholeness, even if you don’t currently feel it.
“Live life to the fullest.” “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” “When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on.” These are great, but life is more complex than cliché quotes. As your counselor, it is my pleasure to partner with you to find real joy in life again. True freedom does take work and can feel terrible as you work through the pain, but is it worth it? 100%! You are worthy of happiness, freedom, and wholeness, even if you don’t currently feel it.
(402) 603-6404 View (402) 603-6404
Photo of Jacqueline Beck - Jacqueline K Beck, MA, LMHP, LPC, RYT, Counselor
Jacqueline K Beck
Counselor, MA, LMHP, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68104
Ready to feel more peaceful, hopeful and happy? Life can be overwhelming at times. At Blue Sky Integrative Health, together we can find a personal, nurturing, approach that is backed by research. We can overcome these issues with an integrative, holistic, and humanistic approach. Ready to live your most passionate, purposeful life? Is emotional or physical pain holding you back? Your own hero's journey is awaiting and together we can help you along that path to achieve your dreams. The first step is often the most difficult, and that is to reach out for the help that you deserve. Phone and live video sessions available.
Ready to feel more peaceful, hopeful and happy? Life can be overwhelming at times. At Blue Sky Integrative Health, together we can find a personal, nurturing, approach that is backed by research. We can overcome these issues with an integrative, holistic, and humanistic approach. Ready to live your most passionate, purposeful life? Is emotional or physical pain holding you back? Your own hero's journey is awaiting and together we can help you along that path to achieve your dreams. The first step is often the most difficult, and that is to reach out for the help that you deserve. Phone and live video sessions available.
(402) 527-8541 View (402) 527-8541
Photo of Jeannie Hughes, MA, LIMHP, Counselor
Jeannie Hughes
Counselor, MA, LIMHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68102
Waitlist for new clients
I live with chronic pain and many of the tools I use with clients were vetted through life experience.
Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I provide in person and virtual counseling. Life can be messy. Sometimes we just need someone to help us untie the knots. Whether you are struggling with chronic pain or anxiety, feel a bit lost, or wonder if your emotions are not quite as "in control" as you would like, counseling is a tool to consider. My job is to help you identify the issues you want to tackle and provide you with tools for the journey. The best way to find out if we are a good fit is to schedule a free consultation today!
I live with chronic pain and many of the tools I use with clients were vetted through life experience.
Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I provide in person and virtual counseling. Life can be messy. Sometimes we just need someone to help us untie the knots. Whether you are struggling with chronic pain or anxiety, feel a bit lost, or wonder if your emotions are not quite as "in control" as you would like, counseling is a tool to consider. My job is to help you identify the issues you want to tackle and provide you with tools for the journey. The best way to find out if we are a good fit is to schedule a free consultation today!
(402) 545-5445 View (402) 545-5445
Photo of Kristin Williams, LIMHP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LIMHP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68131
My experience with clients has proven that with the right tools we can go beyond symptoms of depression, anxiety, or pain… beyond your ability to just tolerate life… to a place of optimal experience.
Feeling anxious or depressed? Are you losing sleep or struggling to focus? Challenged in your most important relationships? You can learn to navigate these, find relief, and experience life from an optimal state. Gain self-awareness and learn to alleviate anxiety and depression while navigating your thoughts, feelings and behaviors with tool and methods that work. Together we identify your personal strengths and develop strategies so you can live life the way you choose.
My experience with clients has proven that with the right tools we can go beyond symptoms of depression, anxiety, or pain… beyond your ability to just tolerate life… to a place of optimal experience.
Feeling anxious or depressed? Are you losing sleep or struggling to focus? Challenged in your most important relationships? You can learn to navigate these, find relief, and experience life from an optimal state. Gain self-awareness and learn to alleviate anxiety and depression while navigating your thoughts, feelings and behaviors with tool and methods that work. Together we identify your personal strengths and develop strategies so you can live life the way you choose.
(402) 576-5962 View (402) 576-5962
Photo of Dr. Jess Krzykowski, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jess Krzykowski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68127
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with interests in childhood trauma and its adult manifestations, identity, anxiety and depressive disorders, grief, and aging. Additionally, I am committed to the role of psychology in helping people manage chronic illnesses, including cancer. I have worked with a variety of individuals experiencing a range of presenting issues including psychological ramifications of medical illnesses, adjustment, mood, psychotic, and substance abuse disorders, and chronic and persistent major mental illness.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with interests in childhood trauma and its adult manifestations, identity, anxiety and depressive disorders, grief, and aging. Additionally, I am committed to the role of psychology in helping people manage chronic illnesses, including cancer. I have worked with a variety of individuals experiencing a range of presenting issues including psychological ramifications of medical illnesses, adjustment, mood, psychotic, and substance abuse disorders, and chronic and persistent major mental illness.
(402) 603-4687 View (402) 603-4687
Photo of Paul A Heft, LIMHP
Paul A Heft
Independent Mental Health Practitioner, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Online Only
And we all carry some amount of pain.
The stress of daily life often leaves us emotionally depleted. While you can neglect your mental health for a while, issues always seem to catch up with us. Whatever roadblocks you face, we will develop concrete solutions through an individualized approach. What you are experiencing needs to be validated and heard. I focus on treating severe mental illness, relationship issues and managing stress.
And we all carry some amount of pain.
The stress of daily life often leaves us emotionally depleted. While you can neglect your mental health for a while, issues always seem to catch up with us. Whatever roadblocks you face, we will develop concrete solutions through an individualized approach. What you are experiencing needs to be validated and heard. I focus on treating severe mental illness, relationship issues and managing stress.
(531) 208-1532 View (531) 208-1532
Photo of Kelly Brown - Kelly Brown, MS, LIMHP, LPC, Counselor
Kelly Brown
Counselor, MS, LIMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Life (relationships, family, work, school, illness, and more) can knock us down causing us to feel a variety of emotions: discouraged, depressed, anxious, disappointed, confused, hopeless, not heard and many more. Whatever struggle or conflict you are facing, you are not alone. Life has many stages and transitions, which is normal, but if you're here, you probably don't feel so "normal". Therapy may feel scary, but most of my clients say it has liberating and life changing. I create a space where nothing is off limits, there are no judgements and every emotion is valid.
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Life (relationships, family, work, school, illness, and more) can knock us down causing us to feel a variety of emotions: discouraged, depressed, anxious, disappointed, confused, hopeless, not heard and many more. Whatever struggle or conflict you are facing, you are not alone. Life has many stages and transitions, which is normal, but if you're here, you probably don't feel so "normal". Therapy may feel scary, but most of my clients say it has liberating and life changing. I create a space where nothing is off limits, there are no judgements and every emotion is valid.
(531) 201-1913 View (531) 201-1913
Photo of Michele Jack-Love, MS, LIMHP, Counselor
Michele Jack-Love
Counselor, MS, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68114
Eventually they may even help us transform pain into wisdom".
Healing is possible. Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, overwhelming emotions, trauma, or PTSD? The effects of these conditions can impact every aspect of your life-your relationships, your health, your employment, your feelings of self-worth and your sense of safety. I will meet you where you are at on your journey of healing in a safe non-judgmental environment working collaboratively with you to tailor your therapy. It is my goal to help you take control of your life and emerge from your current situation to a place of security, growth, and change.
Eventually they may even help us transform pain into wisdom".
Healing is possible. Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, overwhelming emotions, trauma, or PTSD? The effects of these conditions can impact every aspect of your life-your relationships, your health, your employment, your feelings of self-worth and your sense of safety. I will meet you where you are at on your journey of healing in a safe non-judgmental environment working collaboratively with you to tailor your therapy. It is my goal to help you take control of your life and emerge from your current situation to a place of security, growth, and change.
(531) 230-8963 View (531) 230-8963
Photo of Morgan Otto-Berglund, MSW, LIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Otto-Berglund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LIMHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68124
I offer a specialized understanding of the nervous system, which can be essential for effective treatment of burnout, insomnia, stress, chronic pain, and chronic illness.
Healing happens when we feel safe and regulated. This is especially true for stress-related issues, including physical health problems. After understanding your concerns, my first priority is to teach you techniques, tools, and information to help you feel calmer, more grounded, and more empowered. For stress-related concerns, understanding the connections between mind, body, and overall health is a foundational part of healing. As you tend to your experience with compassion and curiosity, growth can occur, and you can move forward in meaningful ways.
I offer a specialized understanding of the nervous system, which can be essential for effective treatment of burnout, insomnia, stress, chronic pain, and chronic illness.
Healing happens when we feel safe and regulated. This is especially true for stress-related issues, including physical health problems. After understanding your concerns, my first priority is to teach you techniques, tools, and information to help you feel calmer, more grounded, and more empowered. For stress-related concerns, understanding the connections between mind, body, and overall health is a foundational part of healing. As you tend to your experience with compassion and curiosity, growth can occur, and you can move forward in meaningful ways.
(402) 532-1967 View (402) 532-1967
Photo of Jodi L. Gentleman, LCSW, LIMHP, LISW, (Iowa), Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jodi L. Gentleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LIMHP, LISW, (Iowa)
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Online Only
I encourage self-compassion while traveling your unique journey, untangling thoughts and emotions, gaining insights, learning to balance joy & pain, and creating action steps.
NOW accepting new clients for Nebraska AND Iowa for convenient Telehealth sessions. You have found a friendly, compassionate, and insightful therapist! Today is the day to take a step...for YOU. Every person has their own unique journey. I HEAR you. I understand. I meet you where you ARE. Together we will get you where you want to BE. Areas of Experience: fertility, pregnancy and birth complications, NICU stays, postpartum, first-time parenting, work/life balance, menopause, childhood to current traumatic experiences, grief, life transitions, ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationships, medical illness, and Health Professionals.
I encourage self-compassion while traveling your unique journey, untangling thoughts and emotions, gaining insights, learning to balance joy & pain, and creating action steps.
NOW accepting new clients for Nebraska AND Iowa for convenient Telehealth sessions. You have found a friendly, compassionate, and insightful therapist! Today is the day to take a step...for YOU. Every person has their own unique journey. I HEAR you. I understand. I meet you where you ARE. Together we will get you where you want to BE. Areas of Experience: fertility, pregnancy and birth complications, NICU stays, postpartum, first-time parenting, work/life balance, menopause, childhood to current traumatic experiences, grief, life transitions, ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationships, medical illness, and Health Professionals.
(402) 313-4432 View (402) 313-4432
Photo of Jill Krelle, MS, LIMHP, LPC, Counselor
Jill Krelle
Counselor, MS, LIMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68154
My main areas of focus are depression, anxiety, phobias, complex trauma, PTSD, substance abuse, self-harm, chronic pain, dual diagnosis, behavior disorders, and severe and persistent mental illness.
“Healing does not mean the damage never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives.” Everyone deserves to live their absolute best life. Challenges may arise, however, that are difficult to overcome. You may be seeking help because you are experiencing pain, fear, anxiety, or a sense of hopelessness. You may feel stuck around a particular issue or unable to let go of events from the past. I understand how frightening and isolating these feelings can be. As your therapist, I will be honored to hear your story and offer my support and care as I help you develop the skills needed to reach your goals.
My main areas of focus are depression, anxiety, phobias, complex trauma, PTSD, substance abuse, self-harm, chronic pain, dual diagnosis, behavior disorders, and severe and persistent mental illness.
“Healing does not mean the damage never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives.” Everyone deserves to live their absolute best life. Challenges may arise, however, that are difficult to overcome. You may be seeking help because you are experiencing pain, fear, anxiety, or a sense of hopelessness. You may feel stuck around a particular issue or unable to let go of events from the past. I understand how frightening and isolating these feelings can be. As your therapist, I will be honored to hear your story and offer my support and care as I help you develop the skills needed to reach your goals.
(531) 999-6369 View (531) 999-6369
Photo of Maddie Doerr, LIMHP, Counselor
Maddie Doerr
Counselor, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68154
I can't wait to help you address your pain, give it a name, and finally release it.
I believe that while many of us feel unwell, we can improve our outlook and many areas of our lives with enough support and encouragement. Trauma, stress, abuse, and pain have caused us to become overwhelmed and unable to deal with life as it comes. Utilizing a holistic wellness model, I can assist you in creating a new life, with beautiful new dreams that can finally become reality. Together, we can pinpoint the parts of life that have never seemed to go well, and create real life solutions for them by addressing and resolving the pain of loss, grief, and oppression that have hurt us over time.
I can't wait to help you address your pain, give it a name, and finally release it.
I believe that while many of us feel unwell, we can improve our outlook and many areas of our lives with enough support and encouragement. Trauma, stress, abuse, and pain have caused us to become overwhelmed and unable to deal with life as it comes. Utilizing a holistic wellness model, I can assist you in creating a new life, with beautiful new dreams that can finally become reality. Together, we can pinpoint the parts of life that have never seemed to go well, and create real life solutions for them by addressing and resolving the pain of loss, grief, and oppression that have hurt us over time.
(531) 229-0782 View (531) 229-0782
Photo of Maddie Moore, MS, LIMHP, LPC, Counselor
Maddie Moore
Counselor, MS, LIMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with young women, anxiety disorders, adult children of parents with mental illness, and/or helping professionals who may be struggling with wellbeing or burnout - I find there are often overlaps in all of these. My primary goal in therapy is to provide a safe space where you feel you can be open and curious - our work starts there. My therapy approach is warm, collaborative, and holistic. My greatest focus will be on helping you develop a deeper awareness of and compassion for yourself, so you can feel more empowered to make the choices in your life that feel aligned with your values, identity, and purpose.
I specialize in working with young women, anxiety disorders, adult children of parents with mental illness, and/or helping professionals who may be struggling with wellbeing or burnout - I find there are often overlaps in all of these. My primary goal in therapy is to provide a safe space where you feel you can be open and curious - our work starts there. My therapy approach is warm, collaborative, and holistic. My greatest focus will be on helping you develop a deeper awareness of and compassion for yourself, so you can feel more empowered to make the choices in your life that feel aligned with your values, identity, and purpose.
(402) 524-5945 View (402) 524-5945
Photo of Michelle Pfeifer, MS, LIMHP, Counselor
Michelle Pfeifer
Counselor, MS, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68114
When something interrupts you from having a satisfying quality of life, therapy can be an illuminating and powerful way to uncover what is happening and create new pathways for a different experience. Depression, anxiety, personality issues, trauma and life events such as loss, divorce and illness can greatly impact your day to day experience of living. Together we will gain an understanding of your struggle and challenges. Utilizing your strengths, we can develop new ways for you to have a different experience of your life and of yourself, informed by a deeper and clearer understanding of your unique internal world.
When something interrupts you from having a satisfying quality of life, therapy can be an illuminating and powerful way to uncover what is happening and create new pathways for a different experience. Depression, anxiety, personality issues, trauma and life events such as loss, divorce and illness can greatly impact your day to day experience of living. Together we will gain an understanding of your struggle and challenges. Utilizing your strengths, we can develop new ways for you to have a different experience of your life and of yourself, informed by a deeper and clearer understanding of your unique internal world.
(402) 383-0209 View (402) 383-0209
Photo of Michelle Czapla, MA, LIMHP, CPC, ADHD-, CCSP, Counselor
Michelle Czapla
Counselor, MA, LIMHP, CPC, ADHD-, CCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68144
I work with clients struggling with a variety of issues, including Anxiety/Panic, ADHD, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Chronic Pain, Mood Disturbance, Self-Care, and many more. However, I am currently only accepting adults with ADHD or suspected ADHD as new clients. Therapy tends to work best when a client provides as much information as possible, is open and honest, and puts in the effort and work necessary to improve upon their life.
I work with clients struggling with a variety of issues, including Anxiety/Panic, ADHD, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Chronic Pain, Mood Disturbance, Self-Care, and many more. However, I am currently only accepting adults with ADHD or suspected ADHD as new clients. Therapy tends to work best when a client provides as much information as possible, is open and honest, and puts in the effort and work necessary to improve upon their life.
(531) 233-1024 View (531) 233-1024
Photo of Danette D Reidl - Let's Talk - Alternative Stress Management, LIMHP, MS, BSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Let's Talk - Alternative Stress Management
Licensed Professional Counselor, LIMHP, MS, BSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I believe much of the physical pain and behavioral issues associated with stress / anxiety issues are resolved in the emotional / spiritual resolution and acceptance of .
Let's Talk is a Science - Spiritual concept which combines traditional mental health therapies with alternative practices to provide a comprehensive mind / body / spirit experience. Stress & life issues do not affect just one section of our lives and should not be treated as such. At Let's Talk, we have made a concerted effort to study the mind body spirit connections academically and through personal practice. It doesn't matter if you want spiritual / life coaching, need a few sessions to help negotiate a specific hurtle, or desire a long term counseling relationship - you will receive a truly holistic experience.
I believe much of the physical pain and behavioral issues associated with stress / anxiety issues are resolved in the emotional / spiritual resolution and acceptance of .
Let's Talk is a Science - Spiritual concept which combines traditional mental health therapies with alternative practices to provide a comprehensive mind / body / spirit experience. Stress & life issues do not affect just one section of our lives and should not be treated as such. At Let's Talk, we have made a concerted effort to study the mind body spirit connections academically and through personal practice. It doesn't matter if you want spiritual / life coaching, need a few sessions to help negotiate a specific hurtle, or desire a long term counseling relationship - you will receive a truly holistic experience.
(402) 817-0086 x402345 View (402) 817-0086 x402345
Photo of Lauren Johnson, PhD, Psychologist
Lauren Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68144
Waitlist for new clients
I also have training and expertise in pediatric health psychology; I can help children and families manage chronic pain, somatic symptom disorders, and the psychological sequelae of chronic medical conditions.
I enjoy helping children, teens, and young adults learn how to master their anxiety and worry so they can live according to their goals and values, not their fears. I aim to equip clients with the tools and strategies for successful self-management long after their time in therapy has ended. I believe therapy is a collaborative process; a client's goals and values provide the framework in which we apply my mental health knowledge and treatment expertise.
I also have training and expertise in pediatric health psychology; I can help children and families manage chronic pain, somatic symptom disorders, and the psychological sequelae of chronic medical conditions.
I enjoy helping children, teens, and young adults learn how to master their anxiety and worry so they can live according to their goals and values, not their fears. I aim to equip clients with the tools and strategies for successful self-management long after their time in therapy has ended. I believe therapy is a collaborative process; a client's goals and values provide the framework in which we apply my mental health knowledge and treatment expertise.
View
Photo of Lacoma Luehrman, LPC, CGP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lacoma Luehrman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CGP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My clients come to me feeling overwhelmed by their personal pain and experiences and feel misunderstood.
Have you ever experienced something that was severely distressing and emotionally overwhelming? Those experiences cause problems in your relationships, work, school, and self-esteem. You no longer feel like you can trust yourself or the world around you. Let me help you get back into the driving seat of your life.
My clients come to me feeling overwhelmed by their personal pain and experiences and feel misunderstood.
Have you ever experienced something that was severely distressing and emotionally overwhelming? Those experiences cause problems in your relationships, work, school, and self-esteem. You no longer feel like you can trust yourself or the world around you. Let me help you get back into the driving seat of your life.
(470) 745-4823 View (470) 745-4823
Photo of Michael J Walsh, MA, LMHP, CMFT, Counselor
Michael J Walsh
Counselor, MA, LMHP, CMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68116
I am currently welcoming new clients for individual, family, or couples therapy. As a Certified Marriage and Family Therapist, my passion lies in facilitating positive transformations within families, couples, and individuals. In our sessions, we can address and overcome challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, family dynamics, stage of life changes (relationship changes, children, loss, career change, graduation, retirement, etc...), chronic and acute illness, and personal growth.
I am currently welcoming new clients for individual, family, or couples therapy. As a Certified Marriage and Family Therapist, my passion lies in facilitating positive transformations within families, couples, and individuals. In our sessions, we can address and overcome challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, family dynamics, stage of life changes (relationship changes, children, loss, career change, graduation, retirement, etc...), chronic and acute illness, and personal growth.
(402) 814-8486 View (402) 814-8486
Photo of Trish Phelan, PLMHP, PCMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trish Phelan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PLMHP, PCMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68134
Life does not always work out the way you hoped or expected. When this happens, you may experience a range of emotions… disappointment, anger, depression and even grief. Would you like to move past these painful feelings? As real healing encompasses the whole person, mind, body and spirit, I will work to accompany you on your journey towards wholeness. I offer a gentle, non-judgmental, calming approach where you will feel safe and accepted. I have an interest in working with persons experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, caregiver burnout, chronic or terminal illness and trauma.
Life does not always work out the way you hoped or expected. When this happens, you may experience a range of emotions… disappointment, anger, depression and even grief. Would you like to move past these painful feelings? As real healing encompasses the whole person, mind, body and spirit, I will work to accompany you on your journey towards wholeness. I offer a gentle, non-judgmental, calming approach where you will feel safe and accepted. I have an interest in working with persons experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, caregiver burnout, chronic or terminal illness and trauma.
(402) 628-7554 View (402) 628-7554
1
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.