Therapists in Torrance, CA

Photo of Nancy J Lomibao, Marriage & Family Therapist in Torrance, CA
Nancy J Lomibao
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
Not accepting new clients
I also specialize in working with cancer, illness, pain, & end of life issues.
Is it time for things to change? My favorite quote is "If nothing ever changed, there would be no butterflies". Change can feel scary at first . . . it is the unknown. I am here to walk that journey of change with you and help with whatever that transformation may be. I work with children, teens, adults, and couples to uncover what things are not working in their lives, and help guide them to new ways of communicating, coping, functioning, thinking, and being. It is an amazing feeling to feel changed and set free from unhealthy and unhappy patterns.
I also specialize in working with cancer, illness, pain, & end of life issues.
Is it time for things to change? My favorite quote is "If nothing ever changed, there would be no butterflies". Change can feel scary at first . . . it is the unknown. I am here to walk that journey of change with you and help with whatever that transformation may be. I work with children, teens, adults, and couples to uncover what things are not working in their lives, and help guide them to new ways of communicating, coping, functioning, thinking, and being. It is an amazing feeling to feel changed and set free from unhealthy and unhappy patterns.
(424) 333-4056 View (424) 333-4056
Photo of Daniel R Villanueva, Marriage & Family Therapist in Torrance, CA
Daniel R Villanueva
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing anxiety, social anxiety, parenting anxiety, depression, relationship issues or creative block? I can help with these and many other concerns. I provide clinical individual therapy, family therapy and life coaching sessions virtually. Therapy and coaching help clients discover what makes them happy and what is holding them back. As a therapist I enjoy working with a diverse range of clients who are motivated to make changes in their lives. Together, we will work to help you achieve your personal and emotional goals.
Are you experiencing anxiety, social anxiety, parenting anxiety, depression, relationship issues or creative block? I can help with these and many other concerns. I provide clinical individual therapy, family therapy and life coaching sessions virtually. Therapy and coaching help clients discover what makes them happy and what is holding them back. As a therapist I enjoy working with a diverse range of clients who are motivated to make changes in their lives. Together, we will work to help you achieve your personal and emotional goals.
(562) 203-1414 View (562) 203-1414
Photo of Counseling Adults, Children & Couples, Psychologist in Torrance, CA
Counseling Adults, Children & Couples
Psychologist, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
(310) 421-2863 View (310) 421-2863
Photo of Remarkable Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Torrance, CA
Remarkable Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90501
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
(925) 436-1725 View (925) 436-1725
Cleo Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Waitlist for new clients
I am pleased to announce joining The Effective Therapy Group. My practice includes kids (4+), as well as couples, and individuals. My work with individuals includes anxiety, PTSD (trauma), abuse, depression, grief, and life’s transitions. Transitions that include moving, divorce, change in health, and recovering from the past year’s health crisis, as well as being an addictions specialist.
I am pleased to announce joining The Effective Therapy Group. My practice includes kids (4+), as well as couples, and individuals. My work with individuals includes anxiety, PTSD (trauma), abuse, depression, grief, and life’s transitions. Transitions that include moving, divorce, change in health, and recovering from the past year’s health crisis, as well as being an addictions specialist.
(424) 399-5480 View (424) 399-5480
CBT California
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90501
CBT California is Southern California’s leading center for cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), founded by award-winning clinicians and scholars dedicated to bringing you state of the art, scientifically sound treatments. We used evidence-based treatment to treat people with depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, substance abuse, and other conditions. If you have problems with emotional regulation, self harm, or intense, unsatisfying relationships, CBT or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can help. We are home to DBT California, the leading high-fidelity, comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program in Southern California.
CBT California is Southern California’s leading center for cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), founded by award-winning clinicians and scholars dedicated to bringing you state of the art, scientifically sound treatments. We used evidence-based treatment to treat people with depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, substance abuse, and other conditions. If you have problems with emotional regulation, self harm, or intense, unsatisfying relationships, CBT or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can help. We are home to DBT California, the leading high-fidelity, comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program in Southern California.
(424) 766-1399 View (424) 766-1399
Photo of Counseling for Couples & Families, Psychologist in Torrance, CA
Counseling for Couples & Families
Psychologist, PsyD, MFCC, CHT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503
Relationships between husbands, wives, lovers, boy/girl friends, children or parents can be tricky. Happy, satisfying and fulfilling relationships require attention, energy, fun, humor, communication, time and investment of yourself. Too often relationships are hampered by misunderstandings, hurtful actions, stress, differences of opinions, unmet needs, and different expectations. Personality changes over time, affairs of the heart, infidelity, unmet sexual intimacy, abuse, cruel words, neglect, self-centeredness, different communication styles, different goals, values and dissimilar interests or fun activities also create unhappiness in relationships. Dr. Carol Francis has worked with relationships satisfaction for 32 years. 310-543-1824 or RelationshipSatisfactionNow.com and drcarolfrancis.com pathstosuccesses.com
Relationships between husbands, wives, lovers, boy/girl friends, children or parents can be tricky. Happy, satisfying and fulfilling relationships require attention, energy, fun, humor, communication, time and investment of yourself. Too often relationships are hampered by misunderstandings, hurtful actions, stress, differences of opinions, unmet needs, and different expectations. Personality changes over time, affairs of the heart, infidelity, unmet sexual intimacy, abuse, cruel words, neglect, self-centeredness, different communication styles, different goals, values and dissimilar interests or fun activities also create unhappiness in relationships. Dr. Carol Francis has worked with relationships satisfaction for 32 years. 310-543-1824 or RelationshipSatisfactionNow.com and drcarolfrancis.com pathstosuccesses.com
(310) 543-1824 View (310) 543-1824
Photo of Crystal Quarry, Psychologist in Torrance, CA
Crystal Quarry
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
I specialize in working with people with chronic illness, disability, cancer, auto-immune disorders, and chronic pain, as well as menopause/perimenopause, and infertility/reproductive health issues; among a myriad of other conditions.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
I specialize in working with people with chronic illness, disability, cancer, auto-immune disorders, and chronic pain, as well as menopause/perimenopause, and infertility/reproductive health issues; among a myriad of other conditions.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
(424) 347-1691 View (424) 347-1691
Photo of Deana R. Straus, Marriage & Family Therapist in Torrance, CA
Deana R. Straus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT, CAMF
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Taking the First Step is the Hardest...it is also the Most COURAGEOUS. I provide Counseling, Anger Management & Parenting. I work with adults, children, individuals, couples & families. I help those having difficulties in life to improve relationships & communication and to deal with STRESS, ANGER, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, TRAUMA, GRIEF and LOSS in healthy ways. I can help change negative thinking and unhealthy behavior, improve self-esteem AND move past TRAUMA.
Taking the First Step is the Hardest...it is also the Most COURAGEOUS. I provide Counseling, Anger Management & Parenting. I work with adults, children, individuals, couples & families. I help those having difficulties in life to improve relationships & communication and to deal with STRESS, ANGER, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, TRAUMA, GRIEF and LOSS in healthy ways. I can help change negative thinking and unhealthy behavior, improve self-esteem AND move past TRAUMA.
(424) 215-6285 View (424) 215-6285
Photo of Cheryl J Santiago-Venture, Psychologist in Torrance, CA
Cheryl J Santiago-Venture
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
You are taking the first steps in creating change in your life. The pursuit of health, happiness, and healing are aspects that we all strive for, and that can be accelerated with additional support and insight oriented therapy. In addition to traditional approaches, such as psychodynamic approaches and cognitive behavioral interventions, I utilize mindfulness techniques, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR. I have experience in treating a variety of condition, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Therapy can assist with stress and change of life issues, such as divorce, new parents, health issues, bereavement, or work/peer conflict.
You are taking the first steps in creating change in your life. The pursuit of health, happiness, and healing are aspects that we all strive for, and that can be accelerated with additional support and insight oriented therapy. In addition to traditional approaches, such as psychodynamic approaches and cognitive behavioral interventions, I utilize mindfulness techniques, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR. I have experience in treating a variety of condition, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Therapy can assist with stress and change of life issues, such as divorce, new parents, health issues, bereavement, or work/peer conflict.
(310) 299-7410 View (310) 299-7410
Photo of Jennifer Kuchler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Torrance, CA
Jennifer Kuchler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90501  (Online Only)
I know personally, what it feels like to be on edge looking for the next issue to come. Having your brain obsess about things- like a prisoner to your own thoughts- Waiting to fall asleep for hours, not being able to recall specific names or numbers. I've been there, I know hope is possible- I found it & have been trained to help others. Let's develop the skills needed to build confidence, improve communication skills, dive deep into bringing out your identity and feel in control of your emotions, create coping skills to build better habits, battle procrastination & have more fulfillment in life.
I know personally, what it feels like to be on edge looking for the next issue to come. Having your brain obsess about things- like a prisoner to your own thoughts- Waiting to fall asleep for hours, not being able to recall specific names or numbers. I've been there, I know hope is possible- I found it & have been trained to help others. Let's develop the skills needed to build confidence, improve communication skills, dive deep into bringing out your identity and feel in control of your emotions, create coping skills to build better habits, battle procrastination & have more fulfillment in life.
(424) 272-6168 View (424) 272-6168
Photo of Robin Linda Dieda, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Torrance, CA
Robin Linda Dieda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Abuse and Trauma • Caretaking of Aging Parents • Midlife Reassessment • Health Challenges and Pain Management • Spirituality, Meaning & Goal Setting.
I have worked for many years with individuals and families who have faced major challenges. Extra support during stressful times can have practical benefits, and can even create opportunities for growth. You will benefit from this investment for the rest of your life. The theme of my practice is Growth through Life Transitions.
Abuse and Trauma • Caretaking of Aging Parents • Midlife Reassessment • Health Challenges and Pain Management • Spirituality, Meaning & Goal Setting.
I have worked for many years with individuals and families who have faced major challenges. Extra support during stressful times can have practical benefits, and can even create opportunities for growth. You will benefit from this investment for the rest of your life. The theme of my practice is Growth through Life Transitions.
(310) 697-8026 View (310) 697-8026
Photo of Theodore Otvos, Psychologist in Torrance, CA
Theodore Otvos
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Do you feel like you don't belong anywhere? Are relationships at home or work difficult? Is someone important to you suggesting that you need help? Are you seeking more clarity in your life? Are you sleeping well? Do you wake up fearful? Does a traumatic past continue to haunt you? Are you unhappy even when thing are generally going well? Are you struggling with a lack of motivation? Do you ever just feel like saying,"What's the use?" Would you like to talk to someone who isn't judging you?
Do you feel like you don't belong anywhere? Are relationships at home or work difficult? Is someone important to you suggesting that you need help? Are you seeking more clarity in your life? Are you sleeping well? Do you wake up fearful? Does a traumatic past continue to haunt you? Are you unhappy even when thing are generally going well? Are you struggling with a lack of motivation? Do you ever just feel like saying,"What's the use?" Would you like to talk to someone who isn't judging you?
(562) 543-4196 View (562) 543-4196
Photo of Kevin Niehaus, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Torrance, CA
Kevin Niehaus
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PsyD, LPCC, MBA
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
In my practice I tend to work with clients, ages 4 - 85+, dealing with anything from anxiety, depression, trauma, career, social issues, and other things causing turbulence in their life. Also, I work with individuals, couples, and families on how they can best function in the world. Depending on the client's needs I work with them to create a customized treatment plan best for their needs. I am also a collaborative therapist that wants the client to have an active voice in their journey. Therapy is different for each individual and I value helping the client pursue the change they are seeking.
In my practice I tend to work with clients, ages 4 - 85+, dealing with anything from anxiety, depression, trauma, career, social issues, and other things causing turbulence in their life. Also, I work with individuals, couples, and families on how they can best function in the world. Depending on the client's needs I work with them to create a customized treatment plan best for their needs. I am also a collaborative therapist that wants the client to have an active voice in their journey. Therapy is different for each individual and I value helping the client pursue the change they are seeking.
(714) 276-1245 View (714) 276-1245
Photo of Stephanie Mason, Marriage & Family Therapist in Torrance, CA
Stephanie Mason
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90508  (Online Only)
I also hold an array of clinical expertise in dealing with chronic pain, depression, anxiety, stress management, LGBTQIA+ issues, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and much more.
New beginnings can often be disguised as painful endings. I work closely with those who have been through tragic events, suffered childhood abuse, those who have been victimized by others, as well as those who might feel like they have nowhere left to turn. My goal is to help you find your inner strength, and to courageously be free to display it and be proud. I am empathetic to my client’s needs, ambitious to provide support, and offer a nonjudgmental space for you to share and truly be heard.
I also hold an array of clinical expertise in dealing with chronic pain, depression, anxiety, stress management, LGBTQIA+ issues, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and much more.
New beginnings can often be disguised as painful endings. I work closely with those who have been through tragic events, suffered childhood abuse, those who have been victimized by others, as well as those who might feel like they have nowhere left to turn. My goal is to help you find your inner strength, and to courageously be free to display it and be proud. I am empathetic to my client’s needs, ambitious to provide support, and offer a nonjudgmental space for you to share and truly be heard.
(626) 247-3135 View (626) 247-3135
Photo of Jazzmin T Hicks-Bonam, Psychologist in Torrance, CA
Jazzmin T Hicks-Bonam
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503
In these challenging times, with the uncertainties ahead, and constant changes, we offer both phone and video sessions (HIPAA compliant) and provide all paperwork, payment, scheduling, and check-ins online (in-person contact is not required). In-person sessions are available for those who prefer them, in a socially distance and safe space, complying with all governmental requirements. To start, we can provide a 15-20 minute free consultation to answer any questions and/or determine if our services are a good fit for you!
In these challenging times, with the uncertainties ahead, and constant changes, we offer both phone and video sessions (HIPAA compliant) and provide all paperwork, payment, scheduling, and check-ins online (in-person contact is not required). In-person sessions are available for those who prefer them, in a socially distance and safe space, complying with all governmental requirements. To start, we can provide a 15-20 minute free consultation to answer any questions and/or determine if our services are a good fit for you!
(310) 340-6636 View (310) 340-6636
Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, Psychologist in Torrance, CA
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, PhD,
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
(562) 303-5525 View (562) 303-5525
Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, Psychologist in Torrance, CA
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
(562) 526-0592 View (562) 526-0592
Photo of Q Psychology Group, Psychologist in Torrance, CA
Q Psychology Group
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
We specialize in working with people with chronic illness, disability, cancer, auto-immune disorders, and chronic pain, as well as menopause/perimenopause, and infertility/reproductive health issues; among a myriad of other conditions.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, our approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". we strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. We specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
We specialize in working with people with chronic illness, disability, cancer, auto-immune disorders, and chronic pain, as well as menopause/perimenopause, and infertility/reproductive health issues; among a myriad of other conditions.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, our approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". we strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. We specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
(424) 306-1660 View (424) 306-1660
Photo of Pacific Therapy Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in Torrance, CA
Pacific Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Pacific Pain & Wellness Group treats mental health and pain conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Our mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, we construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Pacific Pain & Wellness Group treats mental health and pain conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Our mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, we construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
(310) 868-2264 View (310) 868-2264
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.