Photo of Kelsey Bates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Kelsey Bates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
You are a strong woman feeling overwhelmed navigating complex health issues such as chronic illness, chronic pain, anxiety, infertility or pregnancy loss. You are an intelligent, high achieving woman who is dealing with the grief of a diagnosis, pregnancy after loss, infertility or chronic illness. You are juggling it all: a career, family, a romantic partner, friends, dating and your health. You want to figure out a way to not just survive with women's health issues but to thrive and live your life fully each day. You need support, a place to process your grief and coping skills to walk through this difficult situation.
You are a strong woman feeling overwhelmed navigating complex health issues such as chronic illness, chronic pain, anxiety, infertility or pregnancy loss. You are an intelligent, high achieving woman who is dealing with the grief of a diagnosis, pregnancy after loss, infertility or chronic illness. You are juggling it all: a career, family, a romantic partner, friends, dating and your health. You want to figure out a way to not just survive with women's health issues but to thrive and live your life fully each day. You need support, a place to process your grief and coping skills to walk through this difficult situation.
(202) 618-9881 View (202) 618-9881
Photo of Bob Coates, Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Bob Coates
Counselor, MDiv, LMFT-TN, LPC, TN-VA, LMHC-Fl
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22303  (Online Only)
I am committed to assist my client's personal growth and healing, and improving their relationship with their family members and physicians, especially with behavioral pain management, PTSD, or substance abuse struggles.
I radiate empathy towards the personal challenges of suffering, be it physical, spiritual, or psychological. I also strive to assist your loved ones in comprehending the difficulties and possibilities in your life. With my background in collaborative care within the medical field, I can coordinate your treatment alongside your physician, should you wish. Moreover, I possess a deep understanding of executive professionals, recovering healthcare practitioners, attorneys, and judges. Many patients consistently express how therapy has granted them a renewed sense of consciousness, eradicating feelings of isolation and disconnection.
I am committed to assist my client's personal growth and healing, and improving their relationship with their family members and physicians, especially with behavioral pain management, PTSD, or substance abuse struggles.
I radiate empathy towards the personal challenges of suffering, be it physical, spiritual, or psychological. I also strive to assist your loved ones in comprehending the difficulties and possibilities in your life. With my background in collaborative care within the medical field, I can coordinate your treatment alongside your physician, should you wish. Moreover, I possess a deep understanding of executive professionals, recovering healthcare practitioners, attorneys, and judges. Many patients consistently express how therapy has granted them a renewed sense of consciousness, eradicating feelings of isolation and disconnection.
(813) 590-4878 View (813) 590-4878
Photo of Dynamic Health Partners, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Dynamic Health Partners, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Dynamic Health Partners, LLC provides Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help address client's issues with anxiety, depression, addiction, Severe Mental Illness, family discord, marital problems, academic support, ADHD, behavioral problems in children and a variety of other stress related issues. Clients can expect a solution focused, holistic, evidenced based and functional approach to mental health wellness. All clinicians are independently licensed in the state of Arizona. We look forward to partnering with you on your wellness journey!
Dynamic Health Partners, LLC provides Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help address client's issues with anxiety, depression, addiction, Severe Mental Illness, family discord, marital problems, academic support, ADHD, behavioral problems in children and a variety of other stress related issues. Clients can expect a solution focused, holistic, evidenced based and functional approach to mental health wellness. All clinicians are independently licensed in the state of Arizona. We look forward to partnering with you on your wellness journey!
(202) 946-2567 View (202) 946-2567
Photo of Sarah Douglas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Sarah Douglas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Sarah specializes in supporting individuals with chronic illness.
Living with a chronic illness can be isolating and undeniably difficult. There are physical, psychological, and social challenges that no person should have to endure alone. Tending to your mental health is an important step toward living a full and meaningful life despite the complexities of chronic conditions.
Sarah specializes in supporting individuals with chronic illness.
Living with a chronic illness can be isolating and undeniably difficult. There are physical, psychological, and social challenges that no person should have to endure alone. Tending to your mental health is an important step toward living a full and meaningful life despite the complexities of chronic conditions.
(703) 783-2148 View (703) 783-2148
Photo of Clio Long, Psychologist in Alexandria, VA
Clio Long
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22306
Therapy wise, I specialize in trauma, insomnia, and health psychology, assisting people in dealing with illness and disability to achieve the highest level of life satisfaction.
Are you an intelligent, hardworking, good person? Are you unhappy, discouraged, thoroughly stuck? Not knowing where you are going or how to get there? It's your "emotional brain," who drives your life, often without your awareness, but does not speak the same language of your thoughts. That's why you often can't fix a problem, even when you very well know what it is. It's a communication break down. I will help your emotional brain get unstuck so you can have the life you want. I can help you conquer your fears, lift depression, be happy with yourself.
Therapy wise, I specialize in trauma, insomnia, and health psychology, assisting people in dealing with illness and disability to achieve the highest level of life satisfaction.
Are you an intelligent, hardworking, good person? Are you unhappy, discouraged, thoroughly stuck? Not knowing where you are going or how to get there? It's your "emotional brain," who drives your life, often without your awareness, but does not speak the same language of your thoughts. That's why you often can't fix a problem, even when you very well know what it is. It's a communication break down. I will help your emotional brain get unstuck so you can have the life you want. I can help you conquer your fears, lift depression, be happy with yourself.
(703) 691-5416 View (703) 691-5416
Photo of Nathan Kerr, Psychologist in Alexandria, VA
Nathan Kerr
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Life often throws us out of our comfort zone. You may be dealing with a change in relationships, work, or just trying to make it all work. Even mastering one or more areas of your life may leave you feeling like you are floundering to deal with something that you just can't seem to get, no matter how hard you try. Therapy can be a great way to address these struggles, to find out what challenges you may be working through and help to identify ways to address your pain points and meet your goals. We can work together to find a path to a better life.
Life often throws us out of our comfort zone. You may be dealing with a change in relationships, work, or just trying to make it all work. Even mastering one or more areas of your life may leave you feeling like you are floundering to deal with something that you just can't seem to get, no matter how hard you try. Therapy can be a great way to address these struggles, to find out what challenges you may be working through and help to identify ways to address your pain points and meet your goals. We can work together to find a path to a better life.
(571) 570-2737 View (571) 570-2737
Photo of Beverly Morgan-Fullilove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Beverly Morgan-Fullilove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
With over 40 years of experience as an LCSW, I specialize in assisting adults facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, aging adjustments, trauma, chronic pain or illness, divorce issues, and coping with loss. I also excel in providing therapy tailored to seniors navigating the complexities of aging. Holding credentials as an LCSW in both Virginia and Louisiana, I'm eager to support you on your journey toward healing. I anticipate the opportunity to connect with you soon!
With over 40 years of experience as an LCSW, I specialize in assisting adults facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, aging adjustments, trauma, chronic pain or illness, divorce issues, and coping with loss. I also excel in providing therapy tailored to seniors navigating the complexities of aging. Holding credentials as an LCSW in both Virginia and Louisiana, I'm eager to support you on your journey toward healing. I anticipate the opportunity to connect with you soon!
(434) 362-4366 View (434) 362-4366
Photo of John-Paul James, Resident in Counseling in Alexandria, VA
John-Paul James
Resident in Counseling, PhD, DMin, DACBN
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
My ideal clients are people with individual, health issues, parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, premartial, marriage, family, relationship, and sex challenges, body dysmorphia, psycho-social issues, chronic illness, chronic pain, chronic emotional difficulties, anxiety, mood disorders, and personality disorders. The client is willing to have consistent dialogue about how to improve this area of their life and is willing to try new ideas and/or behaviors suggested during their sessions within their daily life. My ability to establish a quick rapport, understanding, and genuineness are keys to my success with my clients.
My ideal clients are people with individual, health issues, parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, premartial, marriage, family, relationship, and sex challenges, body dysmorphia, psycho-social issues, chronic illness, chronic pain, chronic emotional difficulties, anxiety, mood disorders, and personality disorders. The client is willing to have consistent dialogue about how to improve this area of their life and is willing to try new ideas and/or behaviors suggested during their sessions within their daily life. My ability to establish a quick rapport, understanding, and genuineness are keys to my success with my clients.
(571) 200-6935 View (571) 200-6935
Photo of Jennifer Anne Babcock, Psychologist in Alexandria, VA
Jennifer Anne Babcock
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
I practice care through psychotherapy with children, adolescents and adults. I help patients address a range of issues, including: depression, anxiety, ADD and ADHD, trauma, perinatal and postnatal issues, grief, difficulties managing anger, pervasive developmental disorders, low self-esteem, family conflicts, academic difficulties, peer conflict, and chronic medical illness. I seek to understand the unique needs each of my clients within the context of their own ethnic, cultural, and racial identity. I collaborate regularly with parents when treating children.
I practice care through psychotherapy with children, adolescents and adults. I help patients address a range of issues, including: depression, anxiety, ADD and ADHD, trauma, perinatal and postnatal issues, grief, difficulties managing anger, pervasive developmental disorders, low self-esteem, family conflicts, academic difficulties, peer conflict, and chronic medical illness. I seek to understand the unique needs each of my clients within the context of their own ethnic, cultural, and racial identity. I collaborate regularly with parents when treating children.
(540) 987-0983 View (540) 987-0983
Photo of Marissa Cassens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Marissa Cassens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
I have extensive experience working with clients who struggle with eating disorders, depressive and anxiety disorders, chronic pain, grief and dementia.
I strongly believe my clients are the experts in their own lives and can experience healing and personal growth through regaining self-efficacy in their own abilities. My goals are to provide an empathetic, genuine, and constructive space for growth and healing. I utilize evidence-based modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and motivational interviewing to assist clients in addressing negative thought patterns, gain acceptance towards themselves, and increase their tool box of helpful coping skills.
I have extensive experience working with clients who struggle with eating disorders, depressive and anxiety disorders, chronic pain, grief and dementia.
I strongly believe my clients are the experts in their own lives and can experience healing and personal growth through regaining self-efficacy in their own abilities. My goals are to provide an empathetic, genuine, and constructive space for growth and healing. I utilize evidence-based modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and motivational interviewing to assist clients in addressing negative thought patterns, gain acceptance towards themselves, and increase their tool box of helpful coping skills.
(571) 556-1575 View (571) 556-1575
Photo of Dr. Catchings Women's Emotional Wellness Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Dr. Catchings Women's Emotional Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-S, CFTP, EMDR, LCSWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Emotional issues are a community matter that affects us all. I am dedicated to meeting your needs through support, education, and direct services. I believe in a new high standard of response, helping you at the earliest stage and preventing unnecessary impairment and suffering for you and your family. I specialize in relationships, depression, anxiety, and family violence. I also assist with immigration and home studies. My main goal is to ensure you live a happy life, free of pain and negativity. You are not alone. We can walk together until you feel ready to fly. Cynthia V. Catchings, LCSW-S, CMHIMP, CLYL, CFTP, CMS, EMDR-T
Emotional issues are a community matter that affects us all. I am dedicated to meeting your needs through support, education, and direct services. I believe in a new high standard of response, helping you at the earliest stage and preventing unnecessary impairment and suffering for you and your family. I specialize in relationships, depression, anxiety, and family violence. I also assist with immigration and home studies. My main goal is to ensure you live a happy life, free of pain and negativity. You are not alone. We can walk together until you feel ready to fly. Cynthia V. Catchings, LCSW-S, CMHIMP, CLYL, CFTP, CMS, EMDR-T
(571) 253-7505 View (571) 253-7505
Photo of Darlene J Latta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Darlene J Latta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
Whether you're hurting from a broken heart, struggling with a chronic/ life threatening illness, stuck in a dead-end job or trying to overcome one of life’s many challenges, I'll be there for you.
Does love, happiness, prosperity, and inner peace feel forever elusive? Turn your heartache into your dream life. I want to help you stop hurting and start living the life you long to have. I am Darlene Latta, and I've been a psychotherapist for over 25 years. I believe a corrective relationship model combined with support, homework, and practical tools are the foundation to transforming your life. Not only have I witnessed hundreds of clients make these life altering changes but I’ve also done it myself. Together we can make your ideal life a reality.
Whether you're hurting from a broken heart, struggling with a chronic/ life threatening illness, stuck in a dead-end job or trying to overcome one of life’s many challenges, I'll be there for you.
Does love, happiness, prosperity, and inner peace feel forever elusive? Turn your heartache into your dream life. I want to help you stop hurting and start living the life you long to have. I am Darlene Latta, and I've been a psychotherapist for over 25 years. I believe a corrective relationship model combined with support, homework, and practical tools are the foundation to transforming your life. Not only have I witnessed hundreds of clients make these life altering changes but I’ve also done it myself. Together we can make your ideal life a reality.
(302) 200-5627 View (302) 200-5627
Photo of Dr. Goldberg and Associates, Psychologist in Alexandria, VA
Dr. Goldberg and Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304
Welcome. Our large practice has over 200 openings! We focus on the relationship with your therapist. Working through conflicts or past pain happens through experiencing, not just through merely reading or thinking about things. Gaining self acceptance and discovering how to bring an open heart to your family or intimate relationships does not come simply from acquiring an insight, or from reading a "how to" book. It starts with the healing relationship... and the only way you will find out how comfortable you might feel with your therapist is to talk to them in person. My focus in treatment is on the relationship.
Welcome. Our large practice has over 200 openings! We focus on the relationship with your therapist. Working through conflicts or past pain happens through experiencing, not just through merely reading or thinking about things. Gaining self acceptance and discovering how to bring an open heart to your family or intimate relationships does not come simply from acquiring an insight, or from reading a "how to" book. It starts with the healing relationship... and the only way you will find out how comfortable you might feel with your therapist is to talk to them in person. My focus in treatment is on the relationship.
(703) 348-9545 View (703) 348-9545
Photo of Rachael Stern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Rachael Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
The status quo tells us we can’t trust ourselves, our knowing, or our bodies. Rachael believes that our innate knowing - when we can access it, is not only the gold we seek, but the light we shine for ourselves and in the world around us. From experience with eating disorders, self-injury, trauma, chronic pain, couples and larger family systems and the LGBTQIA umbrella to professional work in issue focused non-profits/campaigns (and even performing), Rachael is deeply in tune with the political and social ecosystems that our intersectional identities transverse on a moment to moment basis
The status quo tells us we can’t trust ourselves, our knowing, or our bodies. Rachael believes that our innate knowing - when we can access it, is not only the gold we seek, but the light we shine for ourselves and in the world around us. From experience with eating disorders, self-injury, trauma, chronic pain, couples and larger family systems and the LGBTQIA umbrella to professional work in issue focused non-profits/campaigns (and even performing), Rachael is deeply in tune with the political and social ecosystems that our intersectional identities transverse on a moment to moment basis
(301) 591-6283 View (301) 591-6283
Photo of Christine E. Buckingham, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Christine E. Buckingham
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22302
If your life is not working as well as you believe it should and you are willing to investigate why, you are my ideal client. You may be angry, depressed, anxious, or using food to deal with emotional pain. You may be reeling from the effects of childhood issues, abuse, or PTSD, or in such turmoil that you don't know what is real anymore. You may just need a sounding board. You may be struggling with aspects of your identity, or looking for a way to heal from infidelity, trauma, grief, or loss. We will explore that together.
If your life is not working as well as you believe it should and you are willing to investigate why, you are my ideal client. You may be angry, depressed, anxious, or using food to deal with emotional pain. You may be reeling from the effects of childhood issues, abuse, or PTSD, or in such turmoil that you don't know what is real anymore. You may just need a sounding board. You may be struggling with aspects of your identity, or looking for a way to heal from infidelity, trauma, grief, or loss. We will explore that together.
(240) 392-1292 View (240) 392-1292
Photo of Jenny Pfeiffer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Jenny Pfeiffer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22301
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is to help clients identify, understand, and ultimately change the areas in their lives that have contributed to emotional and relationship pain. I deeply believe that to have the breakthrough we need in current relationships we must understand our history and how it profoundly colors and impacts us as adults. Once we learn to own our history, it no longer owns us.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is to help clients identify, understand, and ultimately change the areas in their lives that have contributed to emotional and relationship pain. I deeply believe that to have the breakthrough we need in current relationships we must understand our history and how it profoundly colors and impacts us as adults. Once we learn to own our history, it no longer owns us.
(757) 269-9833 View (757) 269-9833
Photo of Deborah Leah Rotter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Deborah Leah Rotter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NBCCH, BCD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22301
Currently, my practice is full and I cannot accept new clients. I have 30 years' experience successfully helping people with depression, anxiety, OCD, phobias, low self-esteem, relationship and many other issues. I am trained in several therapy modalities including mindfullness-based cognitive behavioral, clinical hypnotherapy, and traditional talk therapy. Using knowledge in brain science and mind/body connection, I can teach you simple techniques for immediate emotional and/or physical relief as well as help with stress, chronic fatique, and fibromyalgia.
Currently, my practice is full and I cannot accept new clients. I have 30 years' experience successfully helping people with depression, anxiety, OCD, phobias, low self-esteem, relationship and many other issues. I am trained in several therapy modalities including mindfullness-based cognitive behavioral, clinical hypnotherapy, and traditional talk therapy. Using knowledge in brain science and mind/body connection, I can teach you simple techniques for immediate emotional and/or physical relief as well as help with stress, chronic fatique, and fibromyalgia.
(703) 468-8587 View (703) 468-8587
Photo of Dr. Laura Russell, Psychologist in Alexandria, VA
Dr. Laura Russell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Are you feeling emotionally depleted or fearfully uncertain about the future? I offer therapy for individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship issues, OCD, insomnia, trauma, chronic pain, and ADHD. If you are feeling distressed, isolated, or experiencing problems in your relationships I hope I can guide you through these challenging times. My goal as your therapist would be to help you find your own pathway to healing, balance, and a peace of mind.
Are you feeling emotionally depleted or fearfully uncertain about the future? I offer therapy for individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship issues, OCD, insomnia, trauma, chronic pain, and ADHD. If you are feeling distressed, isolated, or experiencing problems in your relationships I hope I can guide you through these challenging times. My goal as your therapist would be to help you find your own pathway to healing, balance, and a peace of mind.
(571) 526-0449 View (571) 526-0449
Photo of Sharquita Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Sharquita Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Find freedom from the emotional pain, bodily stressors, and reclaim your life’s direction.
You’re torn, reliving the painful experience over and over in your mind. Your body betrays you. Your emotions run out of control. Anger and sadness give you whiplash – they come on so fast. The incident is ever-present in your mind. Your life hasn’t been the same since. It’s a constant struggle to get out of bed most days. Every day is full of triggers that can send you running to the bathroom to cry. A loud noise, a stranger’s voice, there’s nowhere to hide. You’re beginning to lose hope. You don’t understand why you’re not over it already. It feels like you’ll never climb out of this hole. You’ve suffered in silence long enough.
Find freedom from the emotional pain, bodily stressors, and reclaim your life’s direction.
You’re torn, reliving the painful experience over and over in your mind. Your body betrays you. Your emotions run out of control. Anger and sadness give you whiplash – they come on so fast. The incident is ever-present in your mind. Your life hasn’t been the same since. It’s a constant struggle to get out of bed most days. Every day is full of triggers that can send you running to the bathroom to cry. A loud noise, a stranger’s voice, there’s nowhere to hide. You’re beginning to lose hope. You don’t understand why you’re not over it already. It feels like you’ll never climb out of this hole. You’ve suffered in silence long enough.
(571) 568-7978 View (571) 568-7978
Photo of Dr. Taylor Bonanni Hawk, Psychologist in Alexandria, VA
Dr. Taylor Bonanni Hawk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include chronic illness and/or pain, depression, anxiety, adjustment, relational issues, eating disorders, and burnout prevention.
“Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength” -Sigmund Freud. I work with clients who have felt the heartache of hopelessness, despair, and sadness. Whether the presenting problems stem from anxiety, depression, trauma, eating concerns, or a combination of these or other issues, I aim to help clients learn new ways in which to alleviate some of the negative symptoms associated with dissatisfaction or despair.
My areas of specialty include chronic illness and/or pain, depression, anxiety, adjustment, relational issues, eating disorders, and burnout prevention.
“Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength” -Sigmund Freud. I work with clients who have felt the heartache of hopelessness, despair, and sadness. Whether the presenting problems stem from anxiety, depression, trauma, eating concerns, or a combination of these or other issues, I aim to help clients learn new ways in which to alleviate some of the negative symptoms associated with dissatisfaction or despair.
(703) 420-7120 View (703) 420-7120
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.