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Online Therapists

Photo of Daniel Pak, Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Daniel Pak
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
People commonly say life is a journey full of ups and downs, but sometimes we feel our journey is only going down. We are left feeling lost, trapped, and in pain. Sadly, we do not always have the help or the resources to get through these moments due to various circumstances in our life. Therapy is not a fix-all solution, but it can be the catalyst to taking steps out of what can feel like a bottomless pit and give us the strength to face our problems. I hope that I can be a steadfast presence for support through whatever you are experiencing and help you find your path through your darkest of valleys.
People commonly say life is a journey full of ups and downs, but sometimes we feel our journey is only going down. We are left feeling lost, trapped, and in pain. Sadly, we do not always have the help or the resources to get through these moments due to various circumstances in our life. Therapy is not a fix-all solution, but it can be the catalyst to taking steps out of what can feel like a bottomless pit and give us the strength to face our problems. I hope that I can be a steadfast presence for support through whatever you are experiencing and help you find your path through your darkest of valleys.
(704) 703-5458 View (704) 703-5458
Photo of Mary Cottam Keever, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albemarle, NC
Mary Cottam Keever
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHC
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27265
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
(336) 916-9181 View (336) 916-9181
Photo of Sandra Painter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albemarle, NC
Sandra Painter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27704
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, down, or struggling in relationships with family, friends or significant others? Are you experiencing loss or dealing with chronic illness in you or a family member? We all face a variety of challenging situations, emotions relationships and events. I believe there are times people may want to clarify their thinking about a problem or take their management of a life challenge up a notch. I believe my job is to support people’s efforts to do that by listening and assisting people in leveraging their strengths.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, down, or struggling in relationships with family, friends or significant others? Are you experiencing loss or dealing with chronic illness in you or a family member? We all face a variety of challenging situations, emotions relationships and events. I believe there are times people may want to clarify their thinking about a problem or take their management of a life challenge up a notch. I believe my job is to support people’s efforts to do that by listening and assisting people in leveraging their strengths.
(919) 766-2706 x24 View (919) 766-2706 x24
Photo of Resilient Counseling, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Albemarle, NC
Resilient Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518
Additionally, Angela works individually with adults experiencing divorce/relationship problems, depression, anxiety/stress, addictions, stress related medical conditions, and chronic pain.
Angela S. McLean, LMFT works with individual clients as well as couples and whole families and specializes in helping people find peace in the midst of constant change and daily chaos. Individual sessions are designed to help clients develop the ability to maintain an inner tranquility that is not easily affected by outside circumstances or pressures. Couples and families work to build a strong foundation and lasting, satisfying relationships. If you are looking for peace within yourself, your marriage, or your home, contact Angela today.
Additionally, Angela works individually with adults experiencing divorce/relationship problems, depression, anxiety/stress, addictions, stress related medical conditions, and chronic pain.
Angela S. McLean, LMFT works with individual clients as well as couples and whole families and specializes in helping people find peace in the midst of constant change and daily chaos. Individual sessions are designed to help clients develop the ability to maintain an inner tranquility that is not easily affected by outside circumstances or pressures. Couples and families work to build a strong foundation and lasting, satisfying relationships. If you are looking for peace within yourself, your marriage, or your home, contact Angela today.
(919) 234-5149 View (919) 234-5149
Photo of Nancy Waring, Psychologist in Albemarle, NC
Nancy Waring
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
I work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, a wide range of relationship issues (including marital, pre-marital, divorce and singleness), chronic illness, grief and also offer career assessment and counseling. I combine a practical, problem solving approach with a focus on the client's emotional and family history to facilitate greater insight for the client as we collaborate to bring balance and wholeness to that client's life. In my many years of practice, I have been on staff at a university counseling center, a large private practice and currently am with a ministry-based counseling center.
I work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, a wide range of relationship issues (including marital, pre-marital, divorce and singleness), chronic illness, grief and also offer career assessment and counseling. I combine a practical, problem solving approach with a focus on the client's emotional and family history to facilitate greater insight for the client as we collaborate to bring balance and wholeness to that client's life. In my many years of practice, I have been on staff at a university counseling center, a large private practice and currently am with a ministry-based counseling center.
(704) 727-4277 x3052 View (704) 727-4277 x3052
Photo of Greensboro Counseling Partners, PLLC in Albemarle, NC
Greensboro Counseling Partners, PLLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410  (Online Only)
Greensboro Counseling Partners is a private practice serving the counseling needs of adults and adolescents in the Triad area. Our therapists are masters level-trained clinicians with a combined experience spanning over 30 years in the mental health field. Our mission is to inspire hope and healing in those who struggle with depression, anxiety, and life challenges. We are here to walk with you through your pain, stress and struggles.
Greensboro Counseling Partners is a private practice serving the counseling needs of adults and adolescents in the Triad area. Our therapists are masters level-trained clinicians with a combined experience spanning over 30 years in the mental health field. Our mission is to inspire hope and healing in those who struggle with depression, anxiety, and life challenges. We are here to walk with you through your pain, stress and struggles.
(336) 739-4105 View (336) 739-4105
Chayah Stoneberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, MS, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Butner, NC 27509
When emotional pain, anxiety, and fear undermine confidence that life will ever be free of suffering, remember that the solutions to life's problems are within reach.
If you are going through difficult times and feeling emotionally distressed without enough support, know that you are not alone. Having the help of a skilled and confidential therapist can help you regain a sense of balance and well-being. As a therapist, my aim is to support you on your journey to becoming your best self. If you are reading this, know that you have already taken the first step towards healing. Let's work together towards your goals and finding new meaning in your path forward.
When emotional pain, anxiety, and fear undermine confidence that life will ever be free of suffering, remember that the solutions to life's problems are within reach.
If you are going through difficult times and feeling emotionally distressed without enough support, know that you are not alone. Having the help of a skilled and confidential therapist can help you regain a sense of balance and well-being. As a therapist, my aim is to support you on your journey to becoming your best self. If you are reading this, know that you have already taken the first step towards healing. Let's work together towards your goals and finding new meaning in your path forward.
(803) 676-1871 View (803) 676-1871
Photo of Meg Barry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Meg Barry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27712
Waitlist for new clients
8-9 Month Waitlist-You matter and you are enough! I am a trauma therapist whose approach is integrative and honors each client’s unique emotional system. I believe that creating safety in client-counselor relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. I greet each client with warmth, understanding, and non-judgement, drawing on each client’s strength and inner wisdom to bring about change in their lives. I am passionate about working with adults with a history of trauma, attachment trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and auto-immune/chronic pain.
8-9 Month Waitlist-You matter and you are enough! I am a trauma therapist whose approach is integrative and honors each client’s unique emotional system. I believe that creating safety in client-counselor relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. I greet each client with warmth, understanding, and non-judgement, drawing on each client’s strength and inner wisdom to bring about change in their lives. I am passionate about working with adults with a history of trauma, attachment trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and auto-immune/chronic pain.
(919) 726-0565 View (919) 726-0565
Photo of The Healing Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albemarle, 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 Anna McDonough, Licensed Professional Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Anna McDonough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
I provide counseling to individuals and couples for a range of issues including, but not limited to: ​ Anxiety and Depression, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Grief and Loss, Pain and Health Issues, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Parent-Child Issues, Work and Career Issues, & Spiritual Issues.
Our world is full of challenges, conflicting demands, and values. At Karis Counseling, I help individuals and couples establish a sense of direction and balance. ​ I counsel clients striving to overcome troubling issues by helping them to understand the origin of the dynamics behind these matters. With this understanding, we establish a clear path and direction to make changes that will bring resolution and fulfillment. ​ This is more than a business to me. It is a commitment and passion and I am honored to walk alongside you.
I provide counseling to individuals and couples for a range of issues including, but not limited to: ​ Anxiety and Depression, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Grief and Loss, Pain and Health Issues, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Parent-Child Issues, Work and Career Issues, & Spiritual Issues.
Our world is full of challenges, conflicting demands, and values. At Karis Counseling, I help individuals and couples establish a sense of direction and balance. ​ I counsel clients striving to overcome troubling issues by helping them to understand the origin of the dynamics behind these matters. With this understanding, we establish a clear path and direction to make changes that will bring resolution and fulfillment. ​ This is more than a business to me. It is a commitment and passion and I am honored to walk alongside you.
(307) 227-3663 View (307) 227-3663
Photo of Nancy E Arnold, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Nancy E Arnold
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
I work with adult individuals/couples presenting with relationship issues describing symptoms of anxiety, anger, infidelity, depression, addiction, chronic illness/pain, grief, shame, low self-worth.
Do your relationships repeat the same frustrating cycles? Are you consistently feeling frustrated, angry or confused? Are you trying, to no avail, to be what you have always learned was "right" in relationships? What you believe about yourself and others influences the majority of your choices. Those feelings of hurt and frustration in relationships, often result in questions like "why?" and "what next?". I work with my clients to explore those feelings, attempting to uncover past and present patterns and beliefs influencing how you show up. Your work with me will move toward finding authenticity, truth and healing.
I work with adult individuals/couples presenting with relationship issues describing symptoms of anxiety, anger, infidelity, depression, addiction, chronic illness/pain, grief, shame, low self-worth.
Do your relationships repeat the same frustrating cycles? Are you consistently feeling frustrated, angry or confused? Are you trying, to no avail, to be what you have always learned was "right" in relationships? What you believe about yourself and others influences the majority of your choices. Those feelings of hurt and frustration in relationships, often result in questions like "why?" and "what next?". I work with my clients to explore those feelings, attempting to uncover past and present patterns and beliefs influencing how you show up. Your work with me will move toward finding authenticity, truth and healing.
(704) 750-0484 View (704) 750-0484
Photo of Christine Wisdom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Christine Wisdom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
I have a special interest in exploring the connection between the emotional, physical and spiritual dimensions as they relate to pain and illness.
I work with individuals and couples by listening to their stories, helping them to find meaning out of life's experiences and working together to rewrite the stories of their lives. I journey with individuals to heal past wounds and move towards wholeness. I have worked with women in life transitions to find a greater sense of self and with men with past struggles with addiction to discover a new direction for their lives. I work with men, women and teens who struggle with anxiety, depression and family conflict to work on setting boundaries with others and caring for the self.
I have a special interest in exploring the connection between the emotional, physical and spiritual dimensions as they relate to pain and illness.
I work with individuals and couples by listening to their stories, helping them to find meaning out of life's experiences and working together to rewrite the stories of their lives. I journey with individuals to heal past wounds and move towards wholeness. I have worked with women in life transitions to find a greater sense of self and with men with past struggles with addiction to discover a new direction for their lives. I work with men, women and teens who struggle with anxiety, depression and family conflict to work on setting boundaries with others and caring for the self.
(704) 276-6109 View (704) 276-6109
Photo of Hannah Strom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albemarle, NC
Hannah Strom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713  (Online Only)
In our society, it’s easy to feel like you’re never “enough.” We’re constantly receiving messages about how to work smarter, live better, and improve our skincare routine. Therapy can help you let go of perfection and find joy. I help individuals and couples with "general" life issues such as anxiety, depression, and communication-but I also specialize in sex therapy. If you're wondering what sex therapy is, you're not alone! It's talk therapy, and it can address issues such as mismatched libidos, pelvic pain, and erectile disfunction.
In our society, it’s easy to feel like you’re never “enough.” We’re constantly receiving messages about how to work smarter, live better, and improve our skincare routine. Therapy can help you let go of perfection and find joy. I help individuals and couples with "general" life issues such as anxiety, depression, and communication-but I also specialize in sex therapy. If you're wondering what sex therapy is, you're not alone! It's talk therapy, and it can address issues such as mismatched libidos, pelvic pain, and erectile disfunction.
(984) 207-3445 View (984) 207-3445
Photo of Cindy W Hickman, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Cindy W Hickman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sanford, NC 27330
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed with life, exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event? Perhaps you struggle with a chronic illness. Maybe you struggle with a difficult child or teen. Or maybe your partner has been unfaithful. Are you tired of feeling isolated and hopeless? You want- no, you need- things to change, but you don’t where to begin. Asking for help can be one of the most difficulty things to do, but I would be honored to help you discover your inner strength and begin your journey to healing and being who you are meant to be.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed with life, exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event? Perhaps you struggle with a chronic illness. Maybe you struggle with a difficult child or teen. Or maybe your partner has been unfaithful. Are you tired of feeling isolated and hopeless? You want- no, you need- things to change, but you don’t where to begin. Asking for help can be one of the most difficulty things to do, but I would be honored to help you discover your inner strength and begin your journey to healing and being who you are meant to be.
(984) 234-5683 View (984) 234-5683
Photo of Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703  (Online Only)
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
(919) 823-6654 View (919) 823-6654
Photo of Complement & Complete Biblical Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albemarle, NC
Complement & Complete Biblical Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28208  (Online Only)
Complement & Complete is a virtual, mental health practice designed to help individuals overcome emotional roots that cause emotional, physical and spiritual pain.
Welcome to my practice! I'm Denetra Gary, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland (LCSW-C), Indiana (LCSW), and North Carolina (LCSW). I'm a Christian-based counselor and use the Bible as my foundation. I have ten years of experience in the field of social work and mental health counseling. My therapeutic focus includes working with adults, teens, and children who struggle with anxiety, depression, and chronic disorganization. I'm confident and dedicated to helping you reach your goals.
Complement & Complete is a virtual, mental health practice designed to help individuals overcome emotional roots that cause emotional, physical and spiritual pain.
Welcome to my practice! I'm Denetra Gary, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland (LCSW-C), Indiana (LCSW), and North Carolina (LCSW). I'm a Christian-based counselor and use the Bible as my foundation. I have ten years of experience in the field of social work and mental health counseling. My therapeutic focus includes working with adults, teens, and children who struggle with anxiety, depression, and chronic disorganization. I'm confident and dedicated to helping you reach your goals.
(301) 215-2887 View (301) 215-2887
Photo of Alysa Calestini, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Albemarle, NC
Alysa Calestini
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA , LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
I have a passion for working with college students as well as individuals coping with autoimmune disorders, cancer, chronic illness/pain, and grief.
Hello! It can be really hard to be human- especially in our current world. I commend you for seeking support and I'm glad that you are here. Together, we can explore what has been showing up for you and find a path to greater awareness, meaning, and empowerment. It is my desire to create a safe environment for any and all identities, where you can share your story and experiences, process life transitions, and find support. My approach is compassionate and collaborative. I believe in the power of authentic human connection and a non-judgmental space to allow for you to access growth.
I have a passion for working with college students as well as individuals coping with autoimmune disorders, cancer, chronic illness/pain, and grief.
Hello! It can be really hard to be human- especially in our current world. I commend you for seeking support and I'm glad that you are here. Together, we can explore what has been showing up for you and find a path to greater awareness, meaning, and empowerment. It is my desire to create a safe environment for any and all identities, where you can share your story and experiences, process life transitions, and find support. My approach is compassionate and collaborative. I believe in the power of authentic human connection and a non-judgmental space to allow for you to access growth.
View
Photo of Robert Limkeman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Albemarle, NC
Robert Limkeman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Life can be incredibly painful. We can find ourselves feeling stuck, confused, lonely, anxious, despairing, or lost. We want to make sense of our past & present circumstances, map out a path forward, all in a way that feels true to our values and honors the pain we experience. My clients often struggle with issues like depression & anxiety, grief & loss, trauma & abuse, identity & meaning formation, sexuality & pornography, spiritual distress & relationship strife. Whether highly motivated or exhausted and on the verge of giving up, I am honored to meet each client where they are and walk with them step by step toward change.
Life can be incredibly painful. We can find ourselves feeling stuck, confused, lonely, anxious, despairing, or lost. We want to make sense of our past & present circumstances, map out a path forward, all in a way that feels true to our values and honors the pain we experience. My clients often struggle with issues like depression & anxiety, grief & loss, trauma & abuse, identity & meaning formation, sexuality & pornography, spiritual distress & relationship strife. Whether highly motivated or exhausted and on the verge of giving up, I am honored to meet each client where they are and walk with them step by step toward change.
(704) 769-2168 x114 View (704) 769-2168 x114
Photo of Page J. Littlewood, Marriage & Family Therapist in Albemarle, NC
Page J. Littlewood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Medical Family Therapy includes helping clients cope with a chronic illness or disability.
I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist. My work supports individuals, couples, families and small businesses seeking to unlock their ability to access the best they have to offer. We all need to experience a secure bond with another to provide a safe haven for comfort and support and a secure base to go out into the world. Together, we can find the secure bond, fun, love, and caring masked by conflicts, connect you with the resources we are all born with that build self esteem, strengthen relationships, bring into awareness and transform old and familiar patterns of communication that are defensive rather than connecting.
Medical Family Therapy includes helping clients cope with a chronic illness or disability.
I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist. My work supports individuals, couples, families and small businesses seeking to unlock their ability to access the best they have to offer. We all need to experience a secure bond with another to provide a safe haven for comfort and support and a secure base to go out into the world. Together, we can find the secure bond, fun, love, and caring masked by conflicts, connect you with the resources we are all born with that build self esteem, strengthen relationships, bring into awareness and transform old and familiar patterns of communication that are defensive rather than connecting.
(919) 948-3457 View (919) 948-3457
Photo of Marty Weems, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albemarle, NC
Marty Weems
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Sometimes we struggle and need help finding our way back to the life we want to live. We may experience feelings of anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and guilt. As a therapist, I aim to create a safe space for my clients to explore their feelings and experiences, and ultimately move towards the things they value. My practice is rooted in compassion, acceptance, and non-judgement. As a LGBTQI affirming therapist, I also recognize the role that oppression plays in creating and maintaining psychological pain. As such, the queer community is a priority in my work.
Sometimes we struggle and need help finding our way back to the life we want to live. We may experience feelings of anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and guilt. As a therapist, I aim to create a safe space for my clients to explore their feelings and experiences, and ultimately move towards the things they value. My practice is rooted in compassion, acceptance, and non-judgement. As a LGBTQI affirming therapist, I also recognize the role that oppression plays in creating and maintaining psychological pain. As such, the queer community is a priority in my work.
(919) 629-0043 View (919) 629-0043

See more therapy options for Albemarle


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.