Therapists in Ontario
Sarah Stockall
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9H
Do you suffer with chronic pain or illness that leaves you feeling broken, hopeless, and disconnected? This disconnection can show up in our relationships with others, but also in the most important relationship – the one with ourselves. Trauma and toxic relationships can manifest as anxiety, stress, and low mood, but can also show up physically. Perhaps you are overwhelmed with feeling these things, but you are ready to make a change. I am here to help you get to the root of your suffering and live a life that is aligned with your values. Let’s work together to reconnect you with yourself and rediscover a more meaningful life!
Do you suffer with chronic pain or illness that leaves you feeling broken, hopeless, and disconnected? This disconnection can show up in our relationships with others, but also in the most important relationship – the one with ourselves. Trauma and toxic relationships can manifest as anxiety, stress, and low mood, but can also show up physically. Perhaps you are overwhelmed with feeling these things, but you are ready to make a change. I am here to help you get to the root of your suffering and live a life that is aligned with your values. Let’s work together to reconnect you with yourself and rediscover a more meaningful life!
Lisa Trepanier
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1S
I am dually trained as a Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist. I am able to provide thorough examinations of your brain health, mental health, and/or personality. I actively provide psychotherapy and other forms of psychological treatment related to these issues. I teach at York University, am on Faculty at the University of Toronto and regularly attend workshops/conferences, which helps to keep my knowledge current and practical. Common referral issues relate to work, mood, coping, chronic stress, chronic pain, or an acquired problem. Whether you struggle with your physical and/or mental health, I can assist you with improving both.
I am dually trained as a Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist. I am able to provide thorough examinations of your brain health, mental health, and/or personality. I actively provide psychotherapy and other forms of psychological treatment related to these issues. I teach at York University, am on Faculty at the University of Toronto and regularly attend workshops/conferences, which helps to keep my knowledge current and practical. Common referral issues relate to work, mood, coping, chronic stress, chronic pain, or an acquired problem. Whether you struggle with your physical and/or mental health, I can assist you with improving both.
Rui Tian
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, PCPain
Verified Verified
Whitchurch-Stouffville, ON L4A (Online Only)
practicing psychotherapy, clinical supervision, life coaching, consultation, training, and counselling through individual, couple family, and group formats. expertise in imental health (e.g. anxiety, depression, trauma); addictions (substances, problem gambling, eating, sex, and internet); concurrent disorders; developmental disability (ASD, MID, LD, ADHD, ODD); dual diagnosis; rehabilitation (MVA, WSIB, OWN, LTD, RTW, mTBI, and traumatic injuries); chronic illness (chronic pain and other chronic medical conditions); return to work, parenting (child and youth); couples and marital relationship, personal wellbeing/development.
practicing psychotherapy, clinical supervision, life coaching, consultation, training, and counselling through individual, couple family, and group formats. expertise in imental health (e.g. anxiety, depression, trauma); addictions (substances, problem gambling, eating, sex, and internet); concurrent disorders; developmental disability (ASD, MID, LD, ADHD, ODD); dual diagnosis; rehabilitation (MVA, WSIB, OWN, LTD, RTW, mTBI, and traumatic injuries); chronic illness (chronic pain and other chronic medical conditions); return to work, parenting (child and youth); couples and marital relationship, personal wellbeing/development.
Wallace Upper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, ON N1R (Online Only)
Wallace works with individuals dealing with various concerns including depression and anxiety, with a special focus on those with neurological disabilities, trauma and/or identifying as having a disability or chronic illness.
As a young person, Wallace Upper experienced the positive effects and the value of accessing counselling services. Therapy gave him the tools to navigate the effects of a traumatic childhood. His experience inspired him to help others and influenced his post-secondary education path. This desire was further cemented after sustaining a spinal cord injury during his second year of university, completely paralyzing him from the chest down. If not for the power of peer connections and the help of a great counsellor, he doesn’t believe he would be where he is today.
Wallace works with individuals dealing with various concerns including depression and anxiety, with a special focus on those with neurological disabilities, trauma and/or identifying as having a disability or chronic illness.
As a young person, Wallace Upper experienced the positive effects and the value of accessing counselling services. Therapy gave him the tools to navigate the effects of a traumatic childhood. His experience inspired him to help others and influenced his post-secondary education path. This desire was further cemented after sustaining a spinal cord injury during his second year of university, completely paralyzing him from the chest down. If not for the power of peer connections and the help of a great counsellor, he doesn’t believe he would be where he is today.
Sarah Stockall
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9C
I am passionate about working with people experiencing chronic pain and illness, trauma, relationship issues, sexual difficulties, stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, along with acne and self-esteem issues.
Accepting NEW clients! - Do you feel like your anxiety, mood, and past traumas are consuming your life and keeping you stuck? Does your pain make you feel hopeless and prevent you from living life to the fullest? Do you struggle in your relationships and feel disconnected from yourself and others? I hope to offer you a safe and comfortable space to navigate life’s challenges and help you achieve whatever goals you want to achieve. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside you on your journey of reconnection with others and your authentic self.
I am passionate about working with people experiencing chronic pain and illness, trauma, relationship issues, sexual difficulties, stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, along with acne and self-esteem issues.
Accepting NEW clients! - Do you feel like your anxiety, mood, and past traumas are consuming your life and keeping you stuck? Does your pain make you feel hopeless and prevent you from living life to the fullest? Do you struggle in your relationships and feel disconnected from yourself and others? I hope to offer you a safe and comfortable space to navigate life’s challenges and help you achieve whatever goals you want to achieve. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside you on your journey of reconnection with others and your authentic self.
Samantha Waxman
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P
Dr. Waxman is a registered Psychologist, practicing in the areas of Clinical and Health Psychology. She is a member of the College of Psychologists of Ontario, the Ontario Psychological Association, and the Canadian Association of Cognitive and Behavioural Therapies; and is also a CACBT-certified Cognitive Behaviour Therapist. Dr. Waxman completed her PhD in Clinical Psychology at Queen's University, and her clinical residency at The Ottawa Hospital. Dr. Waxman has published research in the areas of chronic pain and women's sexual functioning, and has also written textbook chapters on sexuality, pregnancy, and childbirth.
Dr. Waxman is a registered Psychologist, practicing in the areas of Clinical and Health Psychology. She is a member of the College of Psychologists of Ontario, the Ontario Psychological Association, and the Canadian Association of Cognitive and Behavioural Therapies; and is also a CACBT-certified Cognitive Behaviour Therapist. Dr. Waxman completed her PhD in Clinical Psychology at Queen's University, and her clinical residency at The Ottawa Hospital. Dr. Waxman has published research in the areas of chronic pain and women's sexual functioning, and has also written textbook chapters on sexuality, pregnancy, and childbirth.
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4Y (Online Only)
We have combined our extensive professional experience with lessons learned from our own personal healing so we are capable of recognizing the depth of pain our clients experience.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We have combined our extensive professional experience with lessons learned from our own personal healing so we are capable of recognizing the depth of pain our clients experience.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
Jennifer Petryschuk
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4Y
I am a reformed intellectualizer who now helps couples and individuals through body-based psychotherapy. Many of my clients feel disconnected from their bodies, whether this be because of pain (both chronic and sexual), burnout, trauma, ADHD or emotional numbing. It can be impossible to feel sometimes. While our bodies are smart and have adapted to our environments, there is also a way to reconnect and heal.
I am a reformed intellectualizer who now helps couples and individuals through body-based psychotherapy. Many of my clients feel disconnected from their bodies, whether this be because of pain (both chronic and sexual), burnout, trauma, ADHD or emotional numbing. It can be impossible to feel sometimes. While our bodies are smart and have adapted to our environments, there is also a way to reconnect and heal.
Brianna Urquhart
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8L (Online Only)
Living with a chronic illness or disability, or being a family caregiver for a loved one, is complicated and life-changing. Chronic pain, fatigue, medical trauma, burnout, and isolation are all very real challenges that can take a negative toll on your mental health and impact your relationships. I know you have had to do a ton of advocating for yourself or your loved one to ensure needs are being met, and there still remain far too many barriers to getting the support you deserve. You should not have to do this alone. It IS possible to regain control of your life and have a supportive team collaborating with you to meet your goals!
Living with a chronic illness or disability, or being a family caregiver for a loved one, is complicated and life-changing. Chronic pain, fatigue, medical trauma, burnout, and isolation are all very real challenges that can take a negative toll on your mental health and impact your relationships. I know you have had to do a ton of advocating for yourself or your loved one to ensure needs are being met, and there still remain far too many barriers to getting the support you deserve. You should not have to do this alone. It IS possible to regain control of your life and have a supportive team collaborating with you to meet your goals!
Rini Sharma
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, MA, PGAMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6X
As Rumi says, "where there is pain, the cure will come".
Life can be uncertain and overwhelming at times. We sometimes feel struck in the journey of our life but its fine to feel angry, hurt and sad. My approach is client- centered and strength based. I can assist you to accept yourself for what you are and focus on your strengths. As clients are the best navigators of their own lives, I assist my clients to take best decisions of their lives.I am hoping that we will work together as a team. You have knowledge and expertise about your own life and I have knowledge and expertise about the therapeutic process. I expect you to be actively involved in the process as you work towards your goal
As Rumi says, "where there is pain, the cure will come".
Life can be uncertain and overwhelming at times. We sometimes feel struck in the journey of our life but its fine to feel angry, hurt and sad. My approach is client- centered and strength based. I can assist you to accept yourself for what you are and focus on your strengths. As clients are the best navigators of their own lives, I assist my clients to take best decisions of their lives.I am hoping that we will work together as a team. You have knowledge and expertise about your own life and I have knowledge and expertise about the therapeutic process. I expect you to be actively involved in the process as you work towards your goal
Kimberley Cochrane
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, dipTIRP, RP, TEB, SEP
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3P
Everyone experiences emotional pain and may feel anxious or depressed at different times in life. During these times, it is comforting to know that someone is there to listen and hold your heart with care, kindness and sensitivity. Deciding to work with a psychotherapist and somatic practitioner is a courageous step towards understanding yourself and getting to the roots of what may be troubling you. I will see you, perhaps in ways that you've never been seen, and we will make sense of your patterns and struggles, and help you work through the layers of your life to see the beauty that exists within you.
Everyone experiences emotional pain and may feel anxious or depressed at different times in life. During these times, it is comforting to know that someone is there to listen and hold your heart with care, kindness and sensitivity. Deciding to work with a psychotherapist and somatic practitioner is a courageous step towards understanding yourself and getting to the roots of what may be troubling you. I will see you, perhaps in ways that you've never been seen, and we will make sense of your patterns and struggles, and help you work through the layers of your life to see the beauty that exists within you.
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Painful Sex, Genital Pain, Vaginismus Cait Forget
RPN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
It may surprise you to learn that sex is NOT supposed to hurt… yet for 20% of women, it does. Maybe the pain started slowly, or maybe it came on fast. You thought it would go away, but it didn’t. maybe you sought medical advice but, unfortunately, it hasn’t been that helpful. Eventually, the pain is impacting all parts of your life. It’s hard to focus. Hard to work. Maybe you avoid dating all together, worrying “who would want to be with someone who can’t have sex?”. If you are partnered, maybe you worry that your partner will get tired of your pain. Maybe your partner doesn’t even know…
It may surprise you to learn that sex is NOT supposed to hurt… yet for 20% of women, it does. Maybe the pain started slowly, or maybe it came on fast. You thought it would go away, but it didn’t. maybe you sought medical advice but, unfortunately, it hasn’t been that helpful. Eventually, the pain is impacting all parts of your life. It’s hard to focus. Hard to work. Maybe you avoid dating all together, worrying “who would want to be with someone who can’t have sex?”. If you are partnered, maybe you worry that your partner will get tired of your pain. Maybe your partner doesn’t even know…
Carly Quintero @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R (Online Only)
Hello I am a welcoming, attentive clinician with a natural knack for relationship building. I earned my Master's degree in Counselling from Oakland University (Michigan) in 2013 and have been a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario since 2016, as well as a Member of the Ontario Society of Registered Psychotherapists. I have over eight years of experience counselling individuals from predominantly person-centered and narrative approaches with specific focus placed on developing treatment to fit each client's unique needs and personality. I am confident working with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional effects of chronic pain,
Hello I am a welcoming, attentive clinician with a natural knack for relationship building. I earned my Master's degree in Counselling from Oakland University (Michigan) in 2013 and have been a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario since 2016, as well as a Member of the Ontario Society of Registered Psychotherapists. I have over eight years of experience counselling individuals from predominantly person-centered and narrative approaches with specific focus placed on developing treatment to fit each client's unique needs and personality. I am confident working with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional effects of chronic pain,
First Step Men's Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H (Online Only)
Our specializations include: alcohol use, stress, ADHD, relationship issues, men's issues, grief, career guidance, addiction, trauma and PTSD, video game addiction, sleep or insomnia, sex therapy, infidelity, chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.
Many men reach moments in life when they feel stuck; when previous ways of coping are no longer working, especially in relationships; when they feel there is no one they can turn to for help. You may be feeling stuck, lost, disconnected, isolated, broken - to name a few. Many men wait too long for help. The good news is that with the willingness and courage to take the first step, change is possible. It doesn't have to be this way! Many men share that through the course of our work together they feel more empowered, present, hopeful, confident, and in alignment with who they are. Book a free 20 minute consultation with us today!
Our specializations include: alcohol use, stress, ADHD, relationship issues, men's issues, grief, career guidance, addiction, trauma and PTSD, video game addiction, sleep or insomnia, sex therapy, infidelity, chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.
Many men reach moments in life when they feel stuck; when previous ways of coping are no longer working, especially in relationships; when they feel there is no one they can turn to for help. You may be feeling stuck, lost, disconnected, isolated, broken - to name a few. Many men wait too long for help. The good news is that with the willingness and courage to take the first step, change is possible. It doesn't have to be this way! Many men share that through the course of our work together they feel more empowered, present, hopeful, confident, and in alignment with who they are. Book a free 20 minute consultation with us today!
Brian Ajamhassani @ Psychotherapy For You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1G (Online Only)
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
Under The Oaks Self Care Center
Registered Psychotherapist, MA CMHC, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Catharines, ON L2S (Online Only)
You Commit to Your Health AND We Commit to You! Get results that you can feel: Reduce medications; Transform pain into a tool for living the life you want; Feel like your true self again; & Thrive in Your Life.
Take charge of your health! No more late-night symptom searches or spending time & money in talk therapy that just goes over your symptoms & memories without telling you what to do about them. Our team of Psychotherapists goes beyond the symptoms to treat the root cause of your trauma & deliver long-term healing. We’re Mapping the Way Forward in the Face of PTSD & Trauma, Anxiety, & Depression with a Science-Backed, Clinically - Proven Approach. We get to really know you & dedicate time to understanding your history & your goals.
You Commit to Your Health AND We Commit to You! Get results that you can feel: Reduce medications; Transform pain into a tool for living the life you want; Feel like your true self again; & Thrive in Your Life.
Take charge of your health! No more late-night symptom searches or spending time & money in talk therapy that just goes over your symptoms & memories without telling you what to do about them. Our team of Psychotherapists goes beyond the symptoms to treat the root cause of your trauma & deliver long-term healing. We’re Mapping the Way Forward in the Face of PTSD & Trauma, Anxiety, & Depression with a Science-Backed, Clinically - Proven Approach. We get to really know you & dedicate time to understanding your history & your goals.
Brooke Hill
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2P
You do not have to be diagnosed with a mental illness to benefit from psychotherapy.
I am a Clinic Director and Psychotherapist, highly experienced in Canada and abroad, in providing individualized care for a variety of mental issues and illnesses. An ideal client would be someone who is willing to put in the work to take a step towards change. Yet, you may not be ready for change, either way therapy is a safe form to find out. I want to help clients achieve their mental health goals through empowerment, awareness, acceptance and healing, with the use scientifically-based techniques that have been proven to be highly effective. You'll acquire the necessary tools to achieve a mind-body-soul approach to health.
You do not have to be diagnosed with a mental illness to benefit from psychotherapy.
I am a Clinic Director and Psychotherapist, highly experienced in Canada and abroad, in providing individualized care for a variety of mental issues and illnesses. An ideal client would be someone who is willing to put in the work to take a step towards change. Yet, you may not be ready for change, either way therapy is a safe form to find out. I want to help clients achieve their mental health goals through empowerment, awareness, acceptance and healing, with the use scientifically-based techniques that have been proven to be highly effective. You'll acquire the necessary tools to achieve a mind-body-soul approach to health.
Lois M. Ostolosky
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
London, ON N6J
My passion is working with adults experiencing trauma, life transitions, adjustment to illness, grief, relationship challenges.
Immediate, In Person availability. Sometimes, life becomes more than we can comfortably manage. We may feel unfulfilled, sad, irritable, worried and disconnected from who we are, who we love and the life we want to live. We may feel powerless to change our situation. However, change is possible! I work collaboratively with people of all ages, honoring their unique experiences while simultaneously supporting them to increase strategies and build resiliency and confidence. Whether it is a slight ‘tweak’ or a deeper concern you wish to explore, I am happy to provide support.
My passion is working with adults experiencing trauma, life transitions, adjustment to illness, grief, relationship challenges.
Immediate, In Person availability. Sometimes, life becomes more than we can comfortably manage. We may feel unfulfilled, sad, irritable, worried and disconnected from who we are, who we love and the life we want to live. We may feel powerless to change our situation. However, change is possible! I work collaboratively with people of all ages, honoring their unique experiences while simultaneously supporting them to increase strategies and build resiliency and confidence. Whether it is a slight ‘tweak’ or a deeper concern you wish to explore, I am happy to provide support.
Dr. Stéphanie Boyer
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7L (Online Only)
I also have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing genito-pelvic pain conditions.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years’ experience working with teens and adults in university, hospital, community and private practice settings. I offer assessment and treatment for a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and stress/adjustment disorders. My treatment approach is collaborative and person-centered. I create a safe and supportive space for us to work together to understand and work through the problems that have brought you to therapy, and ultimately connect you to what you value in life.
I also have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing genito-pelvic pain conditions.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years’ experience working with teens and adults in university, hospital, community and private practice settings. I offer assessment and treatment for a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and stress/adjustment disorders. My treatment approach is collaborative and person-centered. I create a safe and supportive space for us to work together to understand and work through the problems that have brought you to therapy, and ultimately connect you to what you value in life.
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Milton, ON L9T (Online Only)
We have combined our extensive professional experience with lessons learned from our own personal healing so we are capable of recognizing the depth of pain our clients experience.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We have combined our extensive professional experience with lessons learned from our own personal healing so we are capable of recognizing the depth of pain our clients experience.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
See more therapy options for Ontario
Chronic Pain Counsellors
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, catastrophising, 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 behavioural 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.