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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karen Maynard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Advance, NC
Karen Maynard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Clemmons, NC 27012
Stress and emotional pain certainly impact employment/school performance, interpersonal relationships, and physical health. Chronic stress/emotional pain can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and misguided coping through substances. It changes your perception; contributes to conflict with family/friends and situations previously managed become overwhelming. If this sounds familiar, Health Matters can help.
Stress and emotional pain certainly impact employment/school performance, interpersonal relationships, and physical health. Chronic stress/emotional pain can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and misguided coping through substances. It changes your perception; contributes to conflict with family/friends and situations previously managed become overwhelming. If this sounds familiar, Health Matters can help.
(336) 515-0738 View (336) 515-0738
Photo of Dr. Austin Aibel, Psychologist in Advance, NC
Dr. Austin Aibel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
Hello there! My name is Dr. Austin Aibel. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I specialize in eating disorders and body image issues. I have also done a lot of work with folks struggling with trauma, OCD, chronic illness/complex medical conditions, and identity concerns. I often work with individuals in their teens, twenties, and thirties (but love working with people across the age spectrum). I am passionate about this work and this shows in sessions. I am not a "smile and nod therapist"- Clients have described me as interactive, genuine, and energetic.
Hello there! My name is Dr. Austin Aibel. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I specialize in eating disorders and body image issues. I have also done a lot of work with folks struggling with trauma, OCD, chronic illness/complex medical conditions, and identity concerns. I often work with individuals in their teens, twenties, and thirties (but love working with people across the age spectrum). I am passionate about this work and this shows in sessions. I am not a "smile and nod therapist"- Clients have described me as interactive, genuine, and energetic.
(312) 626-5114 View (312) 626-5114
Photo of Clete L deller, Counselor in Advance, NC
Clete L deller
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lewisville, NC 27023  (Online Only)
We all want more Peace and less Pain in our live. The symptoms of trauma can prevent you from having the life you want, destroy your ability to have intimate and lasting relationships, and ultimately, steal your Peace. Peace or Pain Therapy will not only help you address trauma, but together we will create a concrete plan, for a Meaningful Values-Base Life.
We all want more Peace and less Pain in our live. The symptoms of trauma can prevent you from having the life you want, destroy your ability to have intimate and lasting relationships, and ultimately, steal your Peace. Peace or Pain Therapy will not only help you address trauma, but together we will create a concrete plan, for a Meaningful Values-Base Life.
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Photo of Forsyth Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Advance, NC
Forsyth Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lewisville, NC 27023
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
(336) 750-6021 View (336) 750-6021
Photo of Katherine S Rives, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Advance, NC
Katherine S Rives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Would you like to gain a better understanding of yourself, patterns of behaviors/ cycles of thinking- with the intention of creating a more fulfilling life? We will work together to establish a treatment plan that fits your goals and needs.
Would you like to gain a better understanding of yourself, patterns of behaviors/ cycles of thinking- with the intention of creating a more fulfilling life? We will work together to establish a treatment plan that fits your goals and needs.
(336) 360-3783 View (336) 360-3783
Photo of E. Brooke Barnard, Counselor in Advance, NC
E. Brooke Barnard
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I have an avid interest in helping children, adults, and families dealing with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental and/or physical challenges, and Academically Gifted and Talented. I also specialize in supporting clients and families coping with chronic and/or serious illnesses. Siblings, who are often overlooked in these families, are of special concern to me. Depression, anxiety and grief and loss issues due to death, divorce and other life changes hold a special interest for me as well.
I have an avid interest in helping children, adults, and families dealing with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental and/or physical challenges, and Academically Gifted and Talented. I also specialize in supporting clients and families coping with chronic and/or serious illnesses. Siblings, who are often overlooked in these families, are of special concern to me. Depression, anxiety and grief and loss issues due to death, divorce and other life changes hold a special interest for me as well.
(336) 790-4638 View (336) 790-4638
Photo of Adrienne Reich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Advance, NC
Adrienne Reich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
I am a licensed professional counselor as well as a licensed clinical addictions specialist. I have over twenty years of counseling experience conducting individual, family, and couples counseling. I strive to create an atmosphere that feels safe for people to talk openly about their stories and emotions and help people determine what is best for them to help their current situation.
I am a licensed professional counselor as well as a licensed clinical addictions specialist. I have over twenty years of counseling experience conducting individual, family, and couples counseling. I strive to create an atmosphere that feels safe for people to talk openly about their stories and emotions and help people determine what is best for them to help their current situation.
(336) 939-0712 View (336) 939-0712
Photo of Alexa Henson, Counselor in Advance, NC
Alexa Henson
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
Not accepting new clients
My specialized training revolves around life adjustments, and transitions that come with questioning our purpose in life because of situational crisis such as a disability or chronic illness, and/or traumatic loss.
As a therapist, I am comfortable working with individuals from diverse cultures, lifestyles, and religious/spiritual beliefs, and affirm LGBTQIA+. Therapy can help you discover inner resources that align with your values and goals, and open you to a new way of being, bringing balance to your life. Together, we can navigate and explore what works best for YOU. As part of your healing process, I will meet you with compassion and acceptance, offering a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment, allowing you to explore any obstacles or difficulties that you are facing.
My specialized training revolves around life adjustments, and transitions that come with questioning our purpose in life because of situational crisis such as a disability or chronic illness, and/or traumatic loss.
As a therapist, I am comfortable working with individuals from diverse cultures, lifestyles, and religious/spiritual beliefs, and affirm LGBTQIA+. Therapy can help you discover inner resources that align with your values and goals, and open you to a new way of being, bringing balance to your life. Together, we can navigate and explore what works best for YOU. As part of your healing process, I will meet you with compassion and acceptance, offering a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment, allowing you to explore any obstacles or difficulties that you are facing.
(336) 360-6942 View (336) 360-6942
Photo of Frances F Gordon, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Advance, NC
Frances F Gordon
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCAS, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27104
Not accepting new clients
I see adults for individual and couples therapy. I believe it is important for you to decide what your needs and goals are as you are the expert on who you are. My job is to provide a safe, nurturing, and confidential environment for you to explore your issues. My training is in depressive/anxiety disorders, grief and loss, parenting issues, victimization issues (domestic violence, rape, issues related to childhood/adult trauma), life transitions, communication skills, substance misuse, co-dependency, adult children of alcoholics issues, sexual abuse, and relationships issues. I am also a registered yoga teacher, RYT-500.
I see adults for individual and couples therapy. I believe it is important for you to decide what your needs and goals are as you are the expert on who you are. My job is to provide a safe, nurturing, and confidential environment for you to explore your issues. My training is in depressive/anxiety disorders, grief and loss, parenting issues, victimization issues (domestic violence, rape, issues related to childhood/adult trauma), life transitions, communication skills, substance misuse, co-dependency, adult children of alcoholics issues, sexual abuse, and relationships issues. I am also a registered yoga teacher, RYT-500.
(336) 525-1954 View (336) 525-1954

Online Therapists

Photo of Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Advance, NC
Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CRC, CCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
We've worked with patients living with chronic pain, chronic diseases (Diabetes, Hypertension, HIV/AIDS, Lupus, Sickle Cell), perinatal mental health concerns, anxiety, depression and those needing career/vocational coaching.
We give so much of ourselves to our jobs, families, friends and more that we often lose ourselves and focus on the daily struggle of just surviving. Becoming overwhelmed or feeling anxious, depressed, scared or even angry, may stop you from reaching your full potential. We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. We have a passion for helping others to find their voice, passion, and to create a healthier reality than their present state. We provide Teletherapy & Coaching services. Therapy services are provided by a Four Therapists & Coaching services by Drs. Watkins, Elbert & Blumell.
We've worked with patients living with chronic pain, chronic diseases (Diabetes, Hypertension, HIV/AIDS, Lupus, Sickle Cell), perinatal mental health concerns, anxiety, depression and those needing career/vocational coaching.
We give so much of ourselves to our jobs, families, friends and more that we often lose ourselves and focus on the daily struggle of just surviving. Becoming overwhelmed or feeling anxious, depressed, scared or even angry, may stop you from reaching your full potential. We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. We have a passion for helping others to find their voice, passion, and to create a healthier reality than their present state. We provide Teletherapy & Coaching services. Therapy services are provided by a Four Therapists & Coaching services by Drs. Watkins, Elbert & Blumell.
(704) 512-0618 View (704) 512-0618
Photo of Gilded Peace Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in Advance, NC
Gilded Peace Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408  (Online Only)
Brainspotting and restorative yoga are also offered as additional therapeutic outlets for those living with trauma, dissociation, compulsive behaviors, anxiety, and chronic pain.
Gilded Peace Counseling is BIPOC owned/operated, LGBTQIA+ affirming, a supporter of the healthy at any size community, poly & ethical non-monogamy friendly, sex-positive, and kink-competent. GPC offers counseling for all walks of life and has specialized experience counseling clients with intergenerational trauma, sexual and/or religious trauma, chronic illnesses, and hidden disabilities. We are passionate about members of minority, marginalized, and divergent communities being heard and seen, as intersectionality should only make voices louder.
Brainspotting and restorative yoga are also offered as additional therapeutic outlets for those living with trauma, dissociation, compulsive behaviors, anxiety, and chronic pain.
Gilded Peace Counseling is BIPOC owned/operated, LGBTQIA+ affirming, a supporter of the healthy at any size community, poly & ethical non-monogamy friendly, sex-positive, and kink-competent. GPC offers counseling for all walks of life and has specialized experience counseling clients with intergenerational trauma, sexual and/or religious trauma, chronic illnesses, and hidden disabilities. We are passionate about members of minority, marginalized, and divergent communities being heard and seen, as intersectionality should only make voices louder.
(336) 276-0138 View (336) 276-0138
Photo of Suzanne F Bates, Psychologist in Advance, NC
Suzanne F Bates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Many of my clients struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, OCD and other anxiety disorders, chronic illness, relationship issues, and grief and loss issues.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to enhance learning about behavior, emotions, relationships, and oneself. My goal is to work through the difficulties you are experiencing now while we also build your resiliency to prevent or minimize future difficulties. I ask clients to devote time in between sessions to our work: to increase how accurately we understand your concerns and to take the therapeutic work into your everyday life. Treatment effectiveness relies heavily on the match between therapist and client. If it is not a positive match with me, I assist clients in finding your best match.
Many of my clients struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, OCD and other anxiety disorders, chronic illness, relationship issues, and grief and loss issues.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to enhance learning about behavior, emotions, relationships, and oneself. My goal is to work through the difficulties you are experiencing now while we also build your resiliency to prevent or minimize future difficulties. I ask clients to devote time in between sessions to our work: to increase how accurately we understand your concerns and to take the therapeutic work into your everyday life. Treatment effectiveness relies heavily on the match between therapist and client. If it is not a positive match with me, I assist clients in finding your best match.
(919) 429-7291 View (919) 429-7291
Photo of Mindful Reflections, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Advance, NC
Mindful Reflections
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, DBH
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27617  (Online Only)
Salman offers therapeutic interventions for depression, anxiety, stress due to chronic physical health issues such as chronic pain, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, smoking etc.
Dr. Salman provides “whole person care” through Motivational interviewing techniques, Acceptance & Commitment therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Mindfulness and Person-centered care. Dr. Salman provides Teletherapy in NC via HIPPA compliant platform. “You are not your pain”. Dr. Salman believes and specializes in providing services to adults & elderly struggling with chronic pain. Blending ACT, CBT, and Mindfulness, she helps the clients to change their perspective on pain. Clients learn the neurobiology of the pain which leads to build neuroplasticity and coping skills to improve their mental and physical functioning.
Salman offers therapeutic interventions for depression, anxiety, stress due to chronic physical health issues such as chronic pain, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, smoking etc.
Dr. Salman provides “whole person care” through Motivational interviewing techniques, Acceptance & Commitment therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Mindfulness and Person-centered care. Dr. Salman provides Teletherapy in NC via HIPPA compliant platform. “You are not your pain”. Dr. Salman believes and specializes in providing services to adults & elderly struggling with chronic pain. Blending ACT, CBT, and Mindfulness, she helps the clients to change their perspective on pain. Clients learn the neurobiology of the pain which leads to build neuroplasticity and coping skills to improve their mental and physical functioning.
(984) 985-2729 View (984) 985-2729
Photo of Anita Bhat, Counselor in Advance, NC
Anita Bhat
Counselor, PsyD, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
If you are in need of trauma healing from the past and present, I am the therapist for you! "Pain is inevitable but suffering is optional." Pain is a part of life but it does not have to rule your life. Suffering is not a part of life. We do it to ourselves by allowing our pain to take over our lives. You don't have to sit alone with your pain and suffer. I am a deeply empathetic and effective therapist. Trauma should not be a life sentence for anyone. I am trained in the best techniques using hypnotherapy and mind-body healing to resolve PTSD, trauma and other conditions powerfully, rapidly and effectively using the subconscious
If you are in need of trauma healing from the past and present, I am the therapist for you! "Pain is inevitable but suffering is optional." Pain is a part of life but it does not have to rule your life. Suffering is not a part of life. We do it to ourselves by allowing our pain to take over our lives. You don't have to sit alone with your pain and suffer. I am a deeply empathetic and effective therapist. Trauma should not be a life sentence for anyone. I am trained in the best techniques using hypnotherapy and mind-body healing to resolve PTSD, trauma and other conditions powerfully, rapidly and effectively using the subconscious
(984) 205-6585 View (984) 205-6585
Photo of Lucyna Sonek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Advance, NC
Lucyna Sonek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPsych, MA, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
(828) 527-0143 View (828) 527-0143
Photo of Madalina Ochenatu, Counselor in Advance, NC
Madalina Ochenatu
Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
It is frustrating to have tried everything, yet continue to feel in pain, sad, hopeless, stuck in the past, and worrying about the future, yourself, and your relationships. Stress, past trauma, chronic physical & mental illness can make you feel that way, affecting your quality of life (QOL). Imagine though a life where you get a boost of energy and motivation, quiet negative self-talk, cope better with stress, manage physical and emotional pain, build confidence, feel less worried, self-conscious and withdrawn, regain hope and pleasure in things you used to enjoy, live a healthier life style, and accomplish meaningful life goals.
It is frustrating to have tried everything, yet continue to feel in pain, sad, hopeless, stuck in the past, and worrying about the future, yourself, and your relationships. Stress, past trauma, chronic physical & mental illness can make you feel that way, affecting your quality of life (QOL). Imagine though a life where you get a boost of energy and motivation, quiet negative self-talk, cope better with stress, manage physical and emotional pain, build confidence, feel less worried, self-conscious and withdrawn, regain hope and pleasure in things you used to enjoy, live a healthier life style, and accomplish meaningful life goals.
(984) 205-4877 View (984) 205-4877
Photo of The Healing Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Advance, NC
The Healing Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
Pain is motivating, and we offer customized treatment to meet your needs.
Our definition of recovery is working towards our truest and highest self, not just working towards abstinence. We are trauma specialists in active recovery and focus on healing trauma while reinstating a sense of self. We believe that if you do the hard work, and you keep coming back, you will get better. Our therapists are relationship experts in developing the roadmap to other relationships through self.
Pain is motivating, and we offer customized treatment to meet your needs.
Our definition of recovery is working towards our truest and highest self, not just working towards abstinence. We are trauma specialists in active recovery and focus on healing trauma while reinstating a sense of self. We believe that if you do the hard work, and you keep coming back, you will get better. Our therapists are relationship experts in developing the roadmap to other relationships through self.
(704) 275-0441 View (704) 275-0441
Photo of Janet Heuring Larsen, Psychologist in Advance, NC
Janet Heuring Larsen
Psychologist, MA, LCAS, LPA, HSP-PA, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
PRACTICE MAY HAVE A WAITLIST, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR INQUIRIES: My psychology practice is committed to delivering highly effective treatment and outstanding client care. I've helped individuals navigate challenges and improve their lives for over 10 years. I treat clients with an array of issues including relationship struggles, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, anger, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, substance use/addiction and grief. I serve many clients with co-occurring disorders and have trained other therapists. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and trauma using EMDR and also offer ADHD/ADD counseling.
PRACTICE MAY HAVE A WAITLIST, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR INQUIRIES: My psychology practice is committed to delivering highly effective treatment and outstanding client care. I've helped individuals navigate challenges and improve their lives for over 10 years. I treat clients with an array of issues including relationship struggles, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, anger, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, substance use/addiction and grief. I serve many clients with co-occurring disorders and have trained other therapists. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and trauma using EMDR and also offer ADHD/ADD counseling.
(919) 948-3053 View (919) 948-3053
Photo of The International Center for Wellness PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Advance, NC
The International Center for Wellness PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
(704) 327-5647 x101 View (704) 327-5647 x101
Photo of Karen R Liddell, Pastoral Counselor in Advance, NC
Karen R Liddell
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LCPC, Rev
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117  (Online Only)
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
(980) 372-8371 View (980) 372-8371

See more therapy options for Advance

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.