Chronic Pain Therapists in Burnaby, BC

Photo of Kayla Price, Counsellor in Burnaby, BC
Kayla Price
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
Kayla specializes in working with teens and adults who are struggling with depression or anxiety. This includes individuals who are struggling with figuring out their identity. She is also experienced in helping clients who are recovering from chronic pain or a concussion, including individuals who are impacted by accidents or athletes who have been recovering from injuries. Her background in kinesiology and active rehabilitation has informed her emphasis on the mind-body connection when working with her injured clients. Kayla is also passionate about helping new immigrants who are navigating challenging life transitions.
Kayla specializes in working with teens and adults who are struggling with depression or anxiety. This includes individuals who are struggling with figuring out their identity. She is also experienced in helping clients who are recovering from chronic pain or a concussion, including individuals who are impacted by accidents or athletes who have been recovering from injuries. Her background in kinesiology and active rehabilitation has informed her emphasis on the mind-body connection when working with her injured clients. Kayla is also passionate about helping new immigrants who are navigating challenging life transitions.
(343) 342-2320 View (343) 342-2320
Photo of Amanda Huettner, Counsellor in Burnaby, BC
Amanda Huettner
Counsellor, RCC, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5B  (Online Only)
My goal is for us to come together as equals, and work collaboratively to discover how you can THRIVE instead of just survive big life events such as severe injury, illness or new disability; pregnancy, infertility, IVF and parenthood; abuse, neglect, or violence (witness or survivor); gender and sexuality exploration.
My goal is for us to come together as equals, and work collaboratively to discover how you can THRIVE instead of just survive big life events such as severe injury, illness or new disability; pregnancy, infertility, IVF and parenthood; abuse, neglect, or violence (witness or survivor); gender and sexuality exploration.
(289) 274-5771 View (289) 274-5771
Photo of Jessica Vita Ginting, Psychologist in Burnaby, BC
Jessica Vita Ginting
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V3J
I have experience in helping people with depression, chronic pain, anxiety (e.g., panic disorder, generalized anxiety, social anxiety), and PTSD associated with motor vehicle accidents. I also help people with difficulties coping with other stressors (e.g., work) by addressing assertive communication skills, supporting clients with problem solving and processing meaning of life events.
I have experience in helping people with depression, chronic pain, anxiety (e.g., panic disorder, generalized anxiety, social anxiety), and PTSD associated with motor vehicle accidents. I also help people with difficulties coping with other stressors (e.g., work) by addressing assertive communication skills, supporting clients with problem solving and processing meaning of life events.
(249) 487-0455 View (249) 487-0455
Photo of Andrea Nicole Dasilva, Counsellor in Burnaby, BC
Andrea Nicole Dasilva
Counsellor, M Ed, RCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5R  (Online Only)
My ideal client would be someone who has been feeling stuck and down on him/herself for quite a while. Even though he/she has been trying various self-help techniques and advice from well meaning friends, the feelings of stress/anxiety/discouragement/grief/pain/overwhelm have become unbearable; a history of trauma only adds to all of this. What she/he wants most is to get back to living a full life without being dragged down by doubts, fears, and insecurities.
My ideal client would be someone who has been feeling stuck and down on him/herself for quite a while. Even though he/she has been trying various self-help techniques and advice from well meaning friends, the feelings of stress/anxiety/discouragement/grief/pain/overwhelm have become unbearable; a history of trauma only adds to all of this. What she/he wants most is to get back to living a full life without being dragged down by doubts, fears, and insecurities.
(778) 761-4413 View (778) 761-4413
Photo of Kelsey Harris, Counsellor in Burnaby, BC
Kelsey Harris
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V3J
I have lived experience with chronic pain and illness, and am a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello! My name is Kelsey Harris and I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. I have a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I specialize in working with clients with chronic pain, chronic illness including cancer, and traumatic brain injury/post-concussion, as well as pre/postpartum mental health. I believe that we can all have hope and answers for bettering our lives as we work through these life-changing issues.
I have lived experience with chronic pain and illness, and am a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello! My name is Kelsey Harris and I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. I have a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I specialize in working with clients with chronic pain, chronic illness including cancer, and traumatic brain injury/post-concussion, as well as pre/postpartum mental health. I believe that we can all have hope and answers for bettering our lives as we work through these life-changing issues.
(249) 496-3056 View (249) 496-3056
Photo of Joseph Tse, Psychologist in Burnaby, BC
Joseph Tse
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5H
I am Registered Psychologist (2491) in British Columbia. I enjoy working with adults on a variety of psychological concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress management, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I also provide treatments for individuals with chronic pain, adjustment difficulties related to health issues (e.g., brain injury, chronic diseases), sleep disorders, life transition, grief/bereavement, identity issues, anger management difficulties, and workplace stress. I am also pleased to provide services in Chinese (Cantonese & Mandarin). 我可以用英語, 廣東話 或 普通話提供心理輔導服務。
I am Registered Psychologist (2491) in British Columbia. I enjoy working with adults on a variety of psychological concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress management, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I also provide treatments for individuals with chronic pain, adjustment difficulties related to health issues (e.g., brain injury, chronic diseases), sleep disorders, life transition, grief/bereavement, identity issues, anger management difficulties, and workplace stress. I am also pleased to provide services in Chinese (Cantonese & Mandarin). 我可以用英語, 廣東話 或 普通話提供心理輔導服務。
(825) 609-4942 View (825) 609-4942
Photo of MindMatters Therapy, Licensed Professional Counsellor in Burnaby, BC
MindMatters Therapy
Licensed Professional Counsellor, RCC, MA, BSc Hon
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5G
Some of my specialty areas include: bipolar disorder, problems with emotional regulation, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, stress, and relationship issues.
We all live complex lives and are having to face an ever-changing environment. This can be immensely stressful. We all experience challenges in our lives but we do not always have the clarity or skills to effectively navigate our way through them. We then either get stuck or continue to go through life living on auto-pilot. To create a meaningful life, we need to reconnect with ourselves, the things we value and fine tune our skills to attain our goals. Working through challenges in our past or those in the present in a supportive, therapeutic environment can help us build a fuller and more meaningful life.
Some of my specialty areas include: bipolar disorder, problems with emotional regulation, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, stress, and relationship issues.
We all live complex lives and are having to face an ever-changing environment. This can be immensely stressful. We all experience challenges in our lives but we do not always have the clarity or skills to effectively navigate our way through them. We then either get stuck or continue to go through life living on auto-pilot. To create a meaningful life, we need to reconnect with ourselves, the things we value and fine tune our skills to attain our goals. Working through challenges in our past or those in the present in a supportive, therapeutic environment can help us build a fuller and more meaningful life.
(778) 764-1759 View (778) 764-1759
Photo of Sanela Jakovljev, Counsellor in Burnaby, BC
Sanela Jakovljev
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V3N  (Online Only)
Are you sick of waking up to another day of pain? Tired of trying to explain spoon theory to people committed to misunderstanding you? Are you stuck in executive dysfunction or the overwhelm that comes with neurodivergence? Maybe you've been dismissed by the very professionals meant to help you? I specialize in supporting clients who are neurodivergent and/or living with chronic pain. Using my own lived experience, and drawing upon the principles of ACT, IFS and Somatic Experiencing, I help clients find new and meaningful ways to navigate life with pain and/or neurodivergence.
Are you sick of waking up to another day of pain? Tired of trying to explain spoon theory to people committed to misunderstanding you? Are you stuck in executive dysfunction or the overwhelm that comes with neurodivergence? Maybe you've been dismissed by the very professionals meant to help you? I specialize in supporting clients who are neurodivergent and/or living with chronic pain. Using my own lived experience, and drawing upon the principles of ACT, IFS and Somatic Experiencing, I help clients find new and meaningful ways to navigate life with pain and/or neurodivergence.
(343) 313-0575 View (343) 313-0575
Photo of Laurren Iacobellis, Counsellor in Burnaby, BC
Laurren Iacobellis
Counsellor, MC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5C
I love to help people recover from stress, depression, anxiety, unhealthy relationships, medical struggles and chronic pain. I offer free 20 minute phone consultations and sliding scale fees for people without extended health benefits. Whatever your struggle, you deserve a loving witness.
I love to help people recover from stress, depression, anxiety, unhealthy relationships, medical struggles and chronic pain. I offer free 20 minute phone consultations and sliding scale fees for people without extended health benefits. Whatever your struggle, you deserve a loving witness.
(289) 275-9525 View (289) 275-9525
Photo of Rebecca Chan, Counsellor in Burnaby, BC
Rebecca Chan
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5A
I am passionate about treating clients who struggle with chronic pain and concussions, as well as anxiety, depression, and PTSD that can result from the MVA.
I welcome adolescents (12+) and adults from diverse cultures, genders, sexual orientations, and abilities. My passion lies in helping you connect to your authentic self and to embrace your vulnerability and inner strength to live authentic lives free from the constraints of societal or cultural expectations and self-judgment. This process can include helping you explore your own wants and needs and helping you communicate these wants and needs in a way that feels authentic to you. I am your advocate and am dedicated to helping you become aware of your voice, get connected to it, and express it freely and powerfully.
I am passionate about treating clients who struggle with chronic pain and concussions, as well as anxiety, depression, and PTSD that can result from the MVA.
I welcome adolescents (12+) and adults from diverse cultures, genders, sexual orientations, and abilities. My passion lies in helping you connect to your authentic self and to embrace your vulnerability and inner strength to live authentic lives free from the constraints of societal or cultural expectations and self-judgment. This process can include helping you explore your own wants and needs and helping you communicate these wants and needs in a way that feels authentic to you. I am your advocate and am dedicated to helping you become aware of your voice, get connected to it, and express it freely and powerfully.
(343) 453-5296 View (343) 453-5296
Photo of Johnson Ma, Psychologist in Burnaby, BC
Johnson Ma
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5H
Waitlist for new clients
I provide assessment and psychotherapy to individuals, couples and family in areas of stress management, loss & grief, vocational issues, relationship problems, abuses, trauma, identity issues, mental health issues and parent-child conflict, anxiety, depression, PTSD, chronic pain, and psychosocial adjustment to neurological injuries (e.
I'm a Chinese Canadian psychologist based in Greater Vancouver area. I have experiences in providing diagnostic assessment and psychotherapy in English, and Mandarin to people of diversity struggling with serious mental illness, complex trauma, addiction, concurrent disorders, rehabilitation from physical injuries and traumatic events. In addition to psychological services, I have developed and presented culturally appropriate psychoeducational workshops for Chinese immigrant groups and local school districts in Greater Vancouver.
I provide assessment and psychotherapy to individuals, couples and family in areas of stress management, loss & grief, vocational issues, relationship problems, abuses, trauma, identity issues, mental health issues and parent-child conflict, anxiety, depression, PTSD, chronic pain, and psychosocial adjustment to neurological injuries (e.
I'm a Chinese Canadian psychologist based in Greater Vancouver area. I have experiences in providing diagnostic assessment and psychotherapy in English, and Mandarin to people of diversity struggling with serious mental illness, complex trauma, addiction, concurrent disorders, rehabilitation from physical injuries and traumatic events. In addition to psychological services, I have developed and presented culturally appropriate psychoeducational workshops for Chinese immigrant groups and local school districts in Greater Vancouver.
(604) 670-9580 View (604) 670-9580
Photo of Sara Ahmadian, Counsellor in Burnaby, BC
Sara Ahmadian
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5H
As an immigrant, woman of colour, and chronic pain patient, I deeply understand the negative impact of marginalization and institutional structures on mental health.
Are you tired of feeling trapped in a cycle of pain and exhaustion? Do you long for a sense of relief and hope in your life? If so, I'm here to extend a guiding hand on your journey toward healing and well-being. I am Sara Ahmadian, a compassionate BIPOC counsellor specializing in depression, anxiety, and chronic illness. I'm dedicated to helping you break free from the burdens that weigh you down. In our sessions, I provide a safe and nurturing space for you to slow down, process your emotions, and make sense of your experiences. Together, let's pave the way for a brighter and more fulfilling life.
As an immigrant, woman of colour, and chronic pain patient, I deeply understand the negative impact of marginalization and institutional structures on mental health.
Are you tired of feeling trapped in a cycle of pain and exhaustion? Do you long for a sense of relief and hope in your life? If so, I'm here to extend a guiding hand on your journey toward healing and well-being. I am Sara Ahmadian, a compassionate BIPOC counsellor specializing in depression, anxiety, and chronic illness. I'm dedicated to helping you break free from the burdens that weigh you down. In our sessions, I provide a safe and nurturing space for you to slow down, process your emotions, and make sense of your experiences. Together, let's pave the way for a brighter and more fulfilling life.
(506) 405-2680 View (506) 405-2680
Photo of Charlene Monita Forbes, Counsellor in Burnaby, BC
Charlene Monita Forbes
Counsellor, MA, RCC, BA, INHC, RYT
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
Life by its very nature is uncertain and comes with challenges, life transitions, grief, unexpected loss, illness, and change, and I am here to support and help make sense and help resolve the anxieties and issues that come along with it.
It is my goal to help, heal and empower clients through the challenges and uncertainties of life within a safe empathetic, culturally responsive, open, therapeutic alliance. My tailored approach is premised on making clients feel comfortable, validated, and understood and to help make sense of and resolve the anxieties and issues clients face so they can achieve their goals and live a peaceful and content life. My specialties include Anxiety, Depression, Self Esteem, Stress Management, Life Coaching, Mindfulness-Based Techniques, Health and Wellness, Couples, Separation/Divorce, Trauma, Eating Issues & Emotional Empowerment.
Life by its very nature is uncertain and comes with challenges, life transitions, grief, unexpected loss, illness, and change, and I am here to support and help make sense and help resolve the anxieties and issues that come along with it.
It is my goal to help, heal and empower clients through the challenges and uncertainties of life within a safe empathetic, culturally responsive, open, therapeutic alliance. My tailored approach is premised on making clients feel comfortable, validated, and understood and to help make sense of and resolve the anxieties and issues clients face so they can achieve their goals and live a peaceful and content life. My specialties include Anxiety, Depression, Self Esteem, Stress Management, Life Coaching, Mindfulness-Based Techniques, Health and Wellness, Couples, Separation/Divorce, Trauma, Eating Issues & Emotional Empowerment.
(604) 724-3542 View (604) 724-3542
Photo of Muslim Women Counselling Services: Sanjida Nasreen in Burnaby, BC
Muslim Women Counselling Services: Sanjida Nasreen
BA , MSS, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5H
I also offer Healing Touch Therapy and sound Therapy for pain relief.
Peace be on you dear readers. I really congratulate you for taking the first step: looking for a counsellor. Seeking counselling is a sign of strength. It means that you want to see changes in your life. You may be dealing with depression, anxiety, panic attack, and or relationship issues or you may need to talk to someone who will not judge you. I believe everyone has ability to solve their own problems, however, sometimes overwhelming situation makes us stuck in one point and hinder us to go forward. In those days we need someone listen to us, hold our hands and to go through our difficult times. I am here for you.
I also offer Healing Touch Therapy and sound Therapy for pain relief.
Peace be on you dear readers. I really congratulate you for taking the first step: looking for a counsellor. Seeking counselling is a sign of strength. It means that you want to see changes in your life. You may be dealing with depression, anxiety, panic attack, and or relationship issues or you may need to talk to someone who will not judge you. I believe everyone has ability to solve their own problems, however, sometimes overwhelming situation makes us stuck in one point and hinder us to go forward. In those days we need someone listen to us, hold our hands and to go through our difficult times. I am here for you.
(778) 401-9473 View (778) 401-9473
Photo of Andrea Lauren Yeung, Counsellor in Burnaby, BC
Andrea Lauren Yeung
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5H  (Online Only)
Andrea provides a safe and compassionate space for people to process through thoughts and emotions, gain insights about life patterns, and move towards a place of healing and freedom. She specializes in collaborating with individuals to find their unique path of transformation and self-discovery, while working towards their therapeutic goals. Andrea is committed to walking with people through the challenges, pain, trauma, and transitions that arise in life.
Andrea provides a safe and compassionate space for people to process through thoughts and emotions, gain insights about life patterns, and move towards a place of healing and freedom. She specializes in collaborating with individuals to find their unique path of transformation and self-discovery, while working towards their therapeutic goals. Andrea is committed to walking with people through the challenges, pain, trauma, and transitions that arise in life.
(604) 670-4557 View (604) 670-4557
Photo of Changeways Clinic, Psychologist in Burnaby, BC
Changeways Clinic
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V3J
Changeways Clinic is a private practice of 18 psychologists all specializing in the provision of evidence-based cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT). We see a wide variety of clients, with an emphasis on mood and anxiety-related problems (including panic, PTSD, OCD, social anxiety, and phobias). Individual clinicians also provide services in the areas of parenting, chronic pain, personality disorder, life coaching, return to work, CBT for insomnia, and issues related to sexual orientation. We integrate the principles of acceptance-based and mindfulness-based approaches along with more traditional CBT -based methods.
Changeways Clinic is a private practice of 18 psychologists all specializing in the provision of evidence-based cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT). We see a wide variety of clients, with an emphasis on mood and anxiety-related problems (including panic, PTSD, OCD, social anxiety, and phobias). Individual clinicians also provide services in the areas of parenting, chronic pain, personality disorder, life coaching, return to work, CBT for insomnia, and issues related to sexual orientation. We integrate the principles of acceptance-based and mindfulness-based approaches along with more traditional CBT -based methods.
(855) 974-9965 View (855) 974-9965
Photo of Vancouver Psychology Centre, Psychologist in Burnaby, BC
Vancouver Psychology Centre
Psychologist, PsyDs, PhDs, RCCs, BCATR, CCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5A
We work from a mental wellness, not mental illness perspective.
The Vancouver Psychology Centre is a group of like-minded professionals here to provide evidence-based assessment, consultation and treatment to all ages who seek greater happiness and meaning in their lives. Our Psychologists, Counsellors, Art Therapists and Youth Care Workers use the science of psychology and apply it to the goals of positive emotion and connection. We highlight people's strengths and use Positive Psychology's science and techniques to maximize positive emotion, virtuous personal characteristics, fulfilment with life and to improve connection with others.
We work from a mental wellness, not mental illness perspective.
The Vancouver Psychology Centre is a group of like-minded professionals here to provide evidence-based assessment, consultation and treatment to all ages who seek greater happiness and meaning in their lives. Our Psychologists, Counsellors, Art Therapists and Youth Care Workers use the science of psychology and apply it to the goals of positive emotion and connection. We highlight people's strengths and use Positive Psychology's science and techniques to maximize positive emotion, virtuous personal characteristics, fulfilment with life and to improve connection with others.
(866) 588-2710 View (866) 588-2710
Photo of Jeffery Norell, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor in Burnaby, BC
Jeffery Norell
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CCAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5G
Don't let this illness take any more of your life.
With over 15 years experience successfully applying evidence-based addiction counselling techniques, Jeffery has the knowledge and skills to help you recover from addiction. He brings a vibrant and dynamic personality to his work. Jeffery has an innate ability to build strong rapport and trust with his clients. The services he offers are made to complement your individual needs and create a precise path to your treatment goals. Utilizing evidence-based treatment models he will help you to understand the root causes for the substance use and begin the healing process that will lead to stability and wellness.
Don't let this illness take any more of your life.
With over 15 years experience successfully applying evidence-based addiction counselling techniques, Jeffery has the knowledge and skills to help you recover from addiction. He brings a vibrant and dynamic personality to his work. Jeffery has an innate ability to build strong rapport and trust with his clients. The services he offers are made to complement your individual needs and create a precise path to your treatment goals. Utilizing evidence-based treatment models he will help you to understand the root causes for the substance use and begin the healing process that will lead to stability and wellness.
(604) 670-4610 View (604) 670-4610
Photo of Dave Vass, Counsellor in Burnaby, BC
Dave Vass
Counsellor, MC, RCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V3J
I specialize in treating Type-C Personalities (Conscientious/Competent/Self-Controlled). These tend to be people who are dedicated hard-workers, concerned about the welfare of others, and wanting to ensure that they are doing “the right thing”. Driven by strong internal values and principles, they often get hard on themselves, believing that they can “always do more”. This can complicate things for them--at work, at home, and in relationships--as while they take pride for being dependable/reliable individuals, they struggle to open up to others. This can lead to burnout, a felt sense of loneliness and isolation, and chronic pain.
I specialize in treating Type-C Personalities (Conscientious/Competent/Self-Controlled). These tend to be people who are dedicated hard-workers, concerned about the welfare of others, and wanting to ensure that they are doing “the right thing”. Driven by strong internal values and principles, they often get hard on themselves, believing that they can “always do more”. This can complicate things for them--at work, at home, and in relationships--as while they take pride for being dependable/reliable individuals, they struggle to open up to others. This can lead to burnout, a felt sense of loneliness and isolation, and chronic pain.
(778) 771-4212 View (778) 771-4212
Photo of Sky Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burnaby, BC
Sky Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5A  (Online Only)
If you are coping with a family member's addiction or severe illness (mental or physical), providing care for elderly parents, dealing with sudden healthcare crises, feeling shaken and unsettled after caregiving, I can provide the resources, therapy, and support services you're looking for.
When you or a loved one is unwell, it can be hard to find your bearings. My specialty is providing resources, therapy, and support services to individuals and families looking after aging or mentally ill loved ones. I also provide support for those who are trying to manage life transitions, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues.
If you are coping with a family member's addiction or severe illness (mental or physical), providing care for elderly parents, dealing with sudden healthcare crises, feeling shaken and unsettled after caregiving, I can provide the resources, therapy, and support services you're looking for.
When you or a loved one is unwell, it can be hard to find your bearings. My specialty is providing resources, therapy, and support services to individuals and families looking after aging or mentally ill loved ones. I also provide support for those who are trying to manage life transitions, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues.
(506) 704-5094 View (506) 704-5094

See more therapy options for Burnaby

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.