Photo of Kelly Pastori, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Kelly Pastori
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
Trauma and abuse: spiritual, emotional, sexual, physical, racial; Nervous system psychoeducation, anxiety/depression; Boundaries and codependency; Sexual identity development, Evangelical fundamentalist Purity culture recovery; White identity development; Chronic illness, unidentified physical pain and stress, psychosomatic stress.
At the heart of my work, I approach therapy from a relational, psychodynamic therapy model, which means I believe the relationship between the client and therapist can be a transformative component in the growth process. I am a LPC combining modern neurobiology with holistic somatic healing, the psychodynamic therapeutic relationship, and body-based practices to create an experiential awakening on a bodily, psychological and emotional level. I work from a somatic-centered therapeutic approach, meaning that I believe that the body tells the stories and narratives. For more information, my website is: www.kellypastori.com
Trauma and abuse: spiritual, emotional, sexual, physical, racial; Nervous system psychoeducation, anxiety/depression; Boundaries and codependency; Sexual identity development, Evangelical fundamentalist Purity culture recovery; White identity development; Chronic illness, unidentified physical pain and stress, psychosomatic stress.
At the heart of my work, I approach therapy from a relational, psychodynamic therapy model, which means I believe the relationship between the client and therapist can be a transformative component in the growth process. I am a LPC combining modern neurobiology with holistic somatic healing, the psychodynamic therapeutic relationship, and body-based practices to create an experiential awakening on a bodily, psychological and emotional level. I work from a somatic-centered therapeutic approach, meaning that I believe that the body tells the stories and narratives. For more information, my website is: www.kellypastori.com
(512) 598-5003 View (512) 598-5003
Photo of DeepWatersLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
DeepWatersLPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78732  (Online Only)
We specialize in helping people just like you to overcome depression and anxiety, traumatic experiences, relational distress and struggles, and even chronic pain.
What would it be like to wake up in the morning and be excited about the day? To have hope? To experience more than just relief, but real joy?
We specialize in helping people just like you to overcome depression and anxiety, traumatic experiences, relational distress and struggles, and even chronic pain.
What would it be like to wake up in the morning and be excited about the day? To have hope? To experience more than just relief, but real joy?
(737) 352-4987 View (737) 352-4987
Photo of Brandy Goins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Brandy Goins
Licensed Professional Counselor, Phd,ABD, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78730  (Online Only)
Are you feeling frustrated, perhaps a bit angry? In addition, the feeling that no one understands you or they say the wrong thing to you without thinking of the impact. Dealing with chronic illness and pain is a consistent struggle. Sometimes getting through a day to just support a decent lifestyle is excruciating. The isolation is troubling because a social life feels so out of reach Top that off with a relationship and a healthy sex life seems impossible at the moment. Everyday feels like a marathon of how much can be done while feeling a consistent exhaustion that never goes away. Waking up feeling refreshed seems like a fantasy.
Are you feeling frustrated, perhaps a bit angry? In addition, the feeling that no one understands you or they say the wrong thing to you without thinking of the impact. Dealing with chronic illness and pain is a consistent struggle. Sometimes getting through a day to just support a decent lifestyle is excruciating. The isolation is troubling because a social life feels so out of reach Top that off with a relationship and a healthy sex life seems impossible at the moment. Everyday feels like a marathon of how much can be done while feeling a consistent exhaustion that never goes away. Waking up feeling refreshed seems like a fantasy.
(248) 965-0474 View (248) 965-0474
Photo of Melanie Somerville, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Melanie Somerville
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
I bring compassion, curiosity, and sensitive expertise to my work with adults. A mindful approach allows for attention to the present moment as the foundation for insight and change. Are you finding it difficult to prioritize or care for your mental health? Do you have a history of trauma? Encountering overwhelming life changes? Struggling with chronic pain? My broad experience can be the key to making sense of your world and regaining your equilibrium. In addition, I bring my life experience and work as a professional counselor to offer supervision to LPC interns using the Integrated Development Model and a Psychodynamic approach.
I bring compassion, curiosity, and sensitive expertise to my work with adults. A mindful approach allows for attention to the present moment as the foundation for insight and change. Are you finding it difficult to prioritize or care for your mental health? Do you have a history of trauma? Encountering overwhelming life changes? Struggling with chronic pain? My broad experience can be the key to making sense of your world and regaining your equilibrium. In addition, I bring my life experience and work as a professional counselor to offer supervision to LPC interns using the Integrated Development Model and a Psychodynamic approach.
(512) 960-3591 View (512) 960-3591
Photo of Matt Vitemb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Matt Vitemb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Most of my experience has been with people who are still suffering a lot even though they have tried a lot of therapy and medications. I want you to know I recognize the pain of feeling like nothing can help, and respect the wisdom and willingness it takes to keep trying despite everything you have been through. If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, painful or unsatisfying relationships, the impact of trauma, or unhelpful patterns in how you try to cope with overwhelming pain, I want to support you.
Most of my experience has been with people who are still suffering a lot even though they have tried a lot of therapy and medications. I want you to know I recognize the pain of feeling like nothing can help, and respect the wisdom and willingness it takes to keep trying despite everything you have been through. If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, painful or unsatisfying relationships, the impact of trauma, or unhelpful patterns in how you try to cope with overwhelming pain, I want to support you.
(737) 234-8707 View (737) 234-8707
Photo of Marty Romero Brickley, M.Ed., LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Marty Romero Brickley, M.Ed., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745
Life Problems * Depression * Anxiety * Life Transitions * Pain Grief & Loss * Marital & Relationship Issues * Fears & Phobias * Parenting Issues * Trauma/PTSD * Existential Issues.
I provide counseling for individuals, couples, marriages and families. I also provide individual sessions for Meridian Tapping and iRest® Yoga Nidra Meditation. I integrate Imago, Meridian Tapping and meditation to empower you in learning to navigate your life and relationships. I guide you in exploring body feelings, emotions and beliefs as well as your relationship systems. I will guide you in learning how to become safe with yourself and how to be empowered in the present while living in the world. I look forward to working with you. I will treat your concerns with the utmost respect and with complete confidentiality.
Life Problems * Depression * Anxiety * Life Transitions * Pain Grief & Loss * Marital & Relationship Issues * Fears & Phobias * Parenting Issues * Trauma/PTSD * Existential Issues.
I provide counseling for individuals, couples, marriages and families. I also provide individual sessions for Meridian Tapping and iRest® Yoga Nidra Meditation. I integrate Imago, Meridian Tapping and meditation to empower you in learning to navigate your life and relationships. I guide you in exploring body feelings, emotions and beliefs as well as your relationship systems. I will guide you in learning how to become safe with yourself and how to be empowered in the present while living in the world. I look forward to working with you. I will treat your concerns with the utmost respect and with complete confidentiality.
(512) 354-2813 View (512) 354-2813
Photo of Garrett Lathan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Garrett Lathan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78750
Pain, mental suffering, and relational anguish are a part of life. The question is, what are these experiences saying for you? Desire might be inhibited, hidden by anxiety, or revealed through a symptom, but living without it seems impossible. Psychoanalysis is the process of finding out how to live with what cannot be lived without.
Pain, mental suffering, and relational anguish are a part of life. The question is, what are these experiences saying for you? Desire might be inhibited, hidden by anxiety, or revealed through a symptom, but living without it seems impossible. Psychoanalysis is the process of finding out how to live with what cannot be lived without.
(512) 359-5948 View (512) 359-5948
Photo of Rebecca Huston, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Rebecca Huston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78748  (Online Only)
Please EMAIL for availability. Anxiety. Fear. Uncertainty. Have life events caused you to lose sight of who you wish to be? Are you struggling with career, relationship, communication issues, identity or chronic illness/pain? Do you feel you are not 'grounded', 'good enough' or 'walking on eggshells'? Gaining perspective can be a powerful tool in examining your own situation. I utilize a direct, holistic approach encompassing mind, body and spirit. Many of my clients seek help understanding childhood or adult trauma, transitions, anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic illness/pain, relational issues, narcissistic abuse recovery.
Please EMAIL for availability. Anxiety. Fear. Uncertainty. Have life events caused you to lose sight of who you wish to be? Are you struggling with career, relationship, communication issues, identity or chronic illness/pain? Do you feel you are not 'grounded', 'good enough' or 'walking on eggshells'? Gaining perspective can be a powerful tool in examining your own situation. I utilize a direct, holistic approach encompassing mind, body and spirit. Many of my clients seek help understanding childhood or adult trauma, transitions, anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic illness/pain, relational issues, narcissistic abuse recovery.
(512) 271-5252 View (512) 271-5252
Photo of Sara Sloan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Sara Sloan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST, AASECT, IRT, MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78750
I help clients with identity & relationship issues stemming from personal/cultural differences, a loss of intimacy, infidelity, premarital, sexual incompatibilities, autoimmunity, disability, chronic pain, miscarriage, infertility, sexual complications, religious issues around sexuality and identity, ED, divorce, a new baby, polyamory, anxiety & depression.
I believe relationships define each of us and form the foundation for our life. I work from a systemic perspective with couples, individuals, and families to create relationships that define not only who we are, but also who we desire to become. I help clients with their relationships, intimacy, connection, communication, and sexual compatibility. I work with a lot of women who have suffered from Narcissistic abuse in relationships and family of origin. I also help those who are confused in their current relationships. I enjoy helping those who have autoimmune disease and cancer redefine their sexuality, relationships and desire.
I help clients with identity & relationship issues stemming from personal/cultural differences, a loss of intimacy, infidelity, premarital, sexual incompatibilities, autoimmunity, disability, chronic pain, miscarriage, infertility, sexual complications, religious issues around sexuality and identity, ED, divorce, a new baby, polyamory, anxiety & depression.
I believe relationships define each of us and form the foundation for our life. I work from a systemic perspective with couples, individuals, and families to create relationships that define not only who we are, but also who we desire to become. I help clients with their relationships, intimacy, connection, communication, and sexual compatibility. I work with a lot of women who have suffered from Narcissistic abuse in relationships and family of origin. I also help those who are confused in their current relationships. I enjoy helping those who have autoimmune disease and cancer redefine their sexuality, relationships and desire.
(512) 982-9836 View (512) 982-9836
Photo of Cristina Peck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Cristina Peck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Issues include chronic pain, burnout, coping with cancer, parenting, relationship and communication skills, and more.
Are you experiencing burnout? Do you over-book or overwork yourself, believing you have no choice? Do you prioritize other people's needs or problems before your own? Caring physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, caregivers and parents need extra help in deciding how much they can offer and when to pull back to avoid burnout. You may need help if you are an adult child of an alcoholic or grew up in a chaotic or unpredictable home.
Issues include chronic pain, burnout, coping with cancer, parenting, relationship and communication skills, and more.
Are you experiencing burnout? Do you over-book or overwork yourself, believing you have no choice? Do you prioritize other people's needs or problems before your own? Caring physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, caregivers and parents need extra help in deciding how much they can offer and when to pull back to avoid burnout. You may need help if you are an adult child of an alcoholic or grew up in a chaotic or unpredictable home.
(512) 948-3538 View (512) 948-3538
Photo of Gwen B Hawley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Gwen B Hawley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MAEL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I use techniques that protect your dignity, teach you how to process the source of your pain while gaining strength, understanding and compelling insight.
Therapy should not be scary nor should it be complicated. I provide a non-judgmental, safe environment for you to explore your concerns and become the best version of yourself. My clients describe me as encouraging, loving, motivating and professional.. I don't use psychobabble. My approach is down to earth, educational and adapted to meet your individual style. I use psychological principals combined with lifestyle education (exercise, diet, nutrition) to empower you to start living the life you want. These techniques may be used for physical and emotional problems and may positively impact areas such as personal relationships, sports and business.
I use techniques that protect your dignity, teach you how to process the source of your pain while gaining strength, understanding and compelling insight.
Therapy should not be scary nor should it be complicated. I provide a non-judgmental, safe environment for you to explore your concerns and become the best version of yourself. My clients describe me as encouraging, loving, motivating and professional.. I don't use psychobabble. My approach is down to earth, educational and adapted to meet your individual style. I use psychological principals combined with lifestyle education (exercise, diet, nutrition) to empower you to start living the life you want. These techniques may be used for physical and emotional problems and may positively impact areas such as personal relationships, sports and business.
(512) 920-6353 View (512) 920-6353
Photo of Ross Garcia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Ross Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78741
Feelings of loneliness, inadequacy, shame, hopelessness, and anxiety/depression often derive from negative patterns developed over time or as a result of traumatic pain or stressors.
I believe all human beings strive to create fulfilling lives with meaningful connections to others. Having a greater understanding of our strengths and weaknesses enables us to make better decisions that lead to living the life we imagine for ourselves. Through therapy, I assist clients in gaining insight into themselves through increasing coping and self-awareness. We will examine and identify values/strengths in order to make realistic goals and movement towards the life you want.
Feelings of loneliness, inadequacy, shame, hopelessness, and anxiety/depression often derive from negative patterns developed over time or as a result of traumatic pain or stressors.
I believe all human beings strive to create fulfilling lives with meaningful connections to others. Having a greater understanding of our strengths and weaknesses enables us to make better decisions that lead to living the life we imagine for ourselves. Through therapy, I assist clients in gaining insight into themselves through increasing coping and self-awareness. We will examine and identify values/strengths in order to make realistic goals and movement towards the life you want.
(210) 981-4812 View (210) 981-4812
Photo of Ben Schultz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Ben Schultz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78730
Lack of Motivation, Addiction, & Relationship Issues - The 3 most common presenting problems in my practice today. Whether you’re dealing with any combination of the 3, or something else entirely, actualizing your potential is the way forward. I don't believe rehashing past experiences to no end is helpful. While talking about past experiences may be an important part of our work, growth manifests through present integration. Being as honest and direct as possible is the best way to demonstrate how I'm not here to waste your time. If we share this value, my style of therapy may be right for you.
Lack of Motivation, Addiction, & Relationship Issues - The 3 most common presenting problems in my practice today. Whether you’re dealing with any combination of the 3, or something else entirely, actualizing your potential is the way forward. I don't believe rehashing past experiences to no end is helpful. While talking about past experiences may be an important part of our work, growth manifests through present integration. Being as honest and direct as possible is the best way to demonstrate how I'm not here to waste your time. If we share this value, my style of therapy may be right for you.
(408) 599-2464 View (408) 599-2464
Photo of Alison Prince, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Alison Prince
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Welcome! I specialize in all things related to relationships (dating, marriage, friends, roommates, parenting), anxiety, and self-esteem. Many of us were never taught how to deal with difficult experiences and emotions that arise over the course of our lives, or how to "be" in relationships (with ourselves or others). I see my role as one of walking alongside you, coaching you, teaching skills, providing resources & research, helping you process experiences, and aiding you in figuring out what direction you need to take. I ultimately aim to help you find your own inner strength and develop a personal power and sense of resiliency.
Welcome! I specialize in all things related to relationships (dating, marriage, friends, roommates, parenting), anxiety, and self-esteem. Many of us were never taught how to deal with difficult experiences and emotions that arise over the course of our lives, or how to "be" in relationships (with ourselves or others). I see my role as one of walking alongside you, coaching you, teaching skills, providing resources & research, helping you process experiences, and aiding you in figuring out what direction you need to take. I ultimately aim to help you find your own inner strength and develop a personal power and sense of resiliency.
(512) 666-9825 View (512) 666-9825
Photo of Austin Mindfulness Center, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Austin Mindfulness Center
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, More
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Are you suffering from crippling depression or anxiety? Are you going through a major life transition like changing careers, divorce, or other loss? Maybe you're battling habitual patterns that keep getting in your way no matter how many times you've tried to change things on your own. We believe that therapy can provide you with the means to face the hardest of life's challenges. Having a space to be heard and learning to better understand your problems can be the key that helps you to move forward. It provides a new perspective, as well as tools to better manage problems well after therapy is complete.
Are you suffering from crippling depression or anxiety? Are you going through a major life transition like changing careers, divorce, or other loss? Maybe you're battling habitual patterns that keep getting in your way no matter how many times you've tried to change things on your own. We believe that therapy can provide you with the means to face the hardest of life's challenges. Having a space to be heard and learning to better understand your problems can be the key that helps you to move forward. It provides a new perspective, as well as tools to better manage problems well after therapy is complete.
(512) 309-7202 View (512) 309-7202
Photo of Andrea Rábago, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Andrea Rábago
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746  (Online Only)
Let's work together to establish or restore your sense of wholeness, peace, & well-being. I specialize in supporting the whole person in matters of relationship health & spiritual wellbeing. I work closely with Highly Sensitive People, medical personnel & first responders & those seeking to restore their nervous systems to help enhance Self understanding & experiencing emotional safety in relationships. My focus areas include psychedelic integration, addiction recovery, & trauma resolution. Let's create a safe space for you to relax, explore, & prioritize what matters most in your life.
Let's work together to establish or restore your sense of wholeness, peace, & well-being. I specialize in supporting the whole person in matters of relationship health & spiritual wellbeing. I work closely with Highly Sensitive People, medical personnel & first responders & those seeking to restore their nervous systems to help enhance Self understanding & experiencing emotional safety in relationships. My focus areas include psychedelic integration, addiction recovery, & trauma resolution. Let's create a safe space for you to relax, explore, & prioritize what matters most in your life.
(512) 865-5284 View (512) 865-5284
Photo of Tyson Davis, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Tyson Davis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I view therapy as a deeply transformative experience where people may discover more of who they are and ultimately find a greater sense of peace. Our suffering is often a result of a complex set of circumstances involving our sense of self, our relationships with others, our thoughts, and our feelings. I believe each person deserves to be understood in all of his or her complexity. It is only within an open and accepting relationship with another that we can begin to experience ourselves and our relationships in a new and healing way.
I view therapy as a deeply transformative experience where people may discover more of who they are and ultimately find a greater sense of peace. Our suffering is often a result of a complex set of circumstances involving our sense of self, our relationships with others, our thoughts, and our feelings. I believe each person deserves to be understood in all of his or her complexity. It is only within an open and accepting relationship with another that we can begin to experience ourselves and our relationships in a new and healing way.
(484) 842-0460 View (484) 842-0460
Photo of Sheila Maglaris, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Sheila Maglaris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
Sometimes life can feel lonely, stuck and meaningless. We live in a world that encourages us to cut off from our feelings, from our sense of being truly alive. When we do this, we can begin to feel rigid, anxious, depressed and empty. I am passionate about helping adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem and relationship issues. My approach is to help you connect to your body and emotions in a way that helps you know yourself more deeply, feel more confident in your decisions. Using these methods, we can help, pull you out of depression & anxiety spirals.
Sometimes life can feel lonely, stuck and meaningless. We live in a world that encourages us to cut off from our feelings, from our sense of being truly alive. When we do this, we can begin to feel rigid, anxious, depressed and empty. I am passionate about helping adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem and relationship issues. My approach is to help you connect to your body and emotions in a way that helps you know yourself more deeply, feel more confident in your decisions. Using these methods, we can help, pull you out of depression & anxiety spirals.
(512) 894-8126 View (512) 894-8126
Photo of Liz Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Liz Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78723
Therapy is collaborative. As a therapist, I am a partner in my clients' self-explorations and a witness to their accomplishments. I provide a serene place where clients can rediscover or develop authentic selves, deepen emotional connections with self and others, recognize how thoughts, beliefs and values affect relationships, consider new ways of being in the world, develop healthier adaptive strategies when facing problems, and work through past and present past trauma, grief, and losses. You have the strengths you need to meet your full potential and achieve a satisfying life. I can help.
Therapy is collaborative. As a therapist, I am a partner in my clients' self-explorations and a witness to their accomplishments. I provide a serene place where clients can rediscover or develop authentic selves, deepen emotional connections with self and others, recognize how thoughts, beliefs and values affect relationships, consider new ways of being in the world, develop healthier adaptive strategies when facing problems, and work through past and present past trauma, grief, and losses. You have the strengths you need to meet your full potential and achieve a satisfying life. I can help.
(512) 607-7987 View (512) 607-7987
Photo of Ryan Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Ryan Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
I have knowledge and practice of many prominent counseling theories and will adapt my counseling approach to your needs and goals. I tend to implement a solution-focused approach in order to not only focus in on what your goals are, but also to get you to those goals as quickly as possible. While we develop solutions for your goals, I tend to think outside of the box and try to find unique solutions that are catered to you individually.
I have knowledge and practice of many prominent counseling theories and will adapt my counseling approach to your needs and goals. I tend to implement a solution-focused approach in order to not only focus in on what your goals are, but also to get you to those goals as quickly as possible. While we develop solutions for your goals, I tend to think outside of the box and try to find unique solutions that are catered to you individually.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
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.