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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in North Carolina below.

Online Therapists

Photo of Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Alexander County, 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 Maruka Rivers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Maruka Rivers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, CDBT
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408  (Online Only)
Greetings, I am sure our paths have not crossed by accident. I'm curious to see where this journey will lead .Maybe right now you're deep in your feelings, feeling sad or numb, wishing to feel JOY again... or just feel anything but this. Maybe you've experienced trauma and it plays over and over again, the pain or fear won't go away. Maybe you're struggling with relationships, situationships, friendships, or family connections. Maybe you're worried all the time and you just can't relax. Maybe you've wished Iyanla would just come fix your life!!
Greetings, I am sure our paths have not crossed by accident. I'm curious to see where this journey will lead .Maybe right now you're deep in your feelings, feeling sad or numb, wishing to feel JOY again... or just feel anything but this. Maybe you've experienced trauma and it plays over and over again, the pain or fear won't go away. Maybe you're struggling with relationships, situationships, friendships, or family connections. Maybe you're worried all the time and you just can't relax. Maybe you've wished Iyanla would just come fix your life!!
(336) 396-5620 View (336) 396-5620
Photo of Asha Sims, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander County, NC
Asha Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
Are you tired of traditional psychotherapy and feel like its not helping any more? Do you feel the current forms of treatment are not enough? Dealing with stress, anxiety, and overly sensitive to others? Body pain and somatic concerns? Feeling disconnected? Not grounded? Financial issues? Relationship issues? Its time to come into balance! Time to reconnect with SELF!!
Are you tired of traditional psychotherapy and feel like its not helping any more? Do you feel the current forms of treatment are not enough? Dealing with stress, anxiety, and overly sensitive to others? Body pain and somatic concerns? Feeling disconnected? Not grounded? Financial issues? Relationship issues? Its time to come into balance! Time to reconnect with SELF!!
(704) 703-7278 View (704) 703-7278
Photo of Tiffany Schiffner, Psychologist in Alexander County, NC
Tiffany Schiffner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28278  (Online Only)
Dr. Schiffner is a Latinx licensed psychologist who provides culturally inclusive, empowerment and compassion-based psychotherapy focused on heart healing. She offers individual therapy to adults, older adults (seniors) and psychological assessments to Veterans. Dr. Schiffner specializes in working with diverse client populations and combines cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, solution focused, sex positivity and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients with relationship difficulties, chronic health and pain concerns, and life transitions. She is trauma-informed and honors the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit.
Dr. Schiffner is a Latinx licensed psychologist who provides culturally inclusive, empowerment and compassion-based psychotherapy focused on heart healing. She offers individual therapy to adults, older adults (seniors) and psychological assessments to Veterans. Dr. Schiffner specializes in working with diverse client populations and combines cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, solution focused, sex positivity and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients with relationship difficulties, chronic health and pain concerns, and life transitions. She is trauma-informed and honors the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit.
(321) 730-3872 View (321) 730-3872
Photo of Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Alexander County, NC
Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCMHC-S, LCAS, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
(980) 338-4035 View (980) 338-4035
Photo of Rock of Refuge Counseling Center, Counselor in Alexander County, NC
Rock of Refuge Counseling Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
As the instruments of change, it is a privilege and honor to come alongside each person we support, as they navigate the uncertainty and pain that often comes as a result of our individual lived experiences.
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
As the instruments of change, it is a privilege and honor to come alongside each person we support, as they navigate the uncertainty and pain that often comes as a result of our individual lived experiences.
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
(980) 246-4177 View (980) 246-4177
Photo of Kathryn Falbo-Woodson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Kathryn Falbo-Woodson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Stress is inevitable, it's how we respond to it that matters. While stress can be a catalyst for spiritual, physical, and emotional growth, it impacts our well-being. During stressful times, it's important to recognize emotional and physical changes. Often, we neglect our internal experiences because of the fear of pain. When we avoid the pain, we essentially shut ourselves off from growth. My goal is to support you through challenging times, allowing you to open fully to the present moment by incorporating compassion-oriented & mindfulness-based strategies to withstand the suffering and lean into a growth mindset.
Stress is inevitable, it's how we respond to it that matters. While stress can be a catalyst for spiritual, physical, and emotional growth, it impacts our well-being. During stressful times, it's important to recognize emotional and physical changes. Often, we neglect our internal experiences because of the fear of pain. When we avoid the pain, we essentially shut ourselves off from growth. My goal is to support you through challenging times, allowing you to open fully to the present moment by incorporating compassion-oriented & mindfulness-based strategies to withstand the suffering and lean into a growth mindset.
(318) 705-3019 View (318) 705-3019
Photo of The Healing Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, 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 Valarie Anne Snell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Valarie Anne Snell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
Waitlist for new clients
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
(336) 754-2119 x228 View (336) 754-2119 x228
Photo of Cindy Austin Lineberger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Cindy Austin Lineberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMPH, CMIP
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
Over a decade of helping women to break free from overdoing & overcommitting with little return. Whether a fellow helper or chronic illness warrior, let's create a life you genuinely embrace vs tolerate. Imagine balance, confidence, ignited sexual wellness, & body positivity! Having personally lived with chronic illness, I understand its impact on various facets of life, including your job, sex life, self-esteem, and confidence. Fellow helpers can find refuge here, where you can leave your professional hat at the door in exchange for vulnerability. Let's chat!
Over a decade of helping women to break free from overdoing & overcommitting with little return. Whether a fellow helper or chronic illness warrior, let's create a life you genuinely embrace vs tolerate. Imagine balance, confidence, ignited sexual wellness, & body positivity! Having personally lived with chronic illness, I understand its impact on various facets of life, including your job, sex life, self-esteem, and confidence. Fellow helpers can find refuge here, where you can leave your professional hat at the door in exchange for vulnerability. Let's chat!
(828) 408-0507 View (828) 408-0507
Photo of Dr. Heather Dancy Morgan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Dr. Heather Dancy Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW, CFMHE, CCCE, CCAPT
Verified Verified
Lexington, NC 27292
Do you feel on overload from anxiety or a deep sadness that won't just go away? Sometimes we reach a point where we feel we need a little extra help to get through a situation we are facing, or sometimes just life in general. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental approach to counseling and welcome those experiencing life's challenges. I have dedicated my life to behavioral health and wellness and specialize in working with those experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, mood disorders, thought disorders and PTSD, among many others. I also offer Mental Health Assessments, Parenting Capacity Assessments and Child Custody Evaluations.
Do you feel on overload from anxiety or a deep sadness that won't just go away? Sometimes we reach a point where we feel we need a little extra help to get through a situation we are facing, or sometimes just life in general. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental approach to counseling and welcome those experiencing life's challenges. I have dedicated my life to behavioral health and wellness and specialize in working with those experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, mood disorders, thought disorders and PTSD, among many others. I also offer Mental Health Assessments, Parenting Capacity Assessments and Child Custody Evaluations.
(336) 447-1661 View (336) 447-1661
Photo of Heidi Andersen, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Alexander County, NC
Heidi Andersen
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC-S, CBTP, RYT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
The best time to mend your relationship with your body is 20 years ago. The second best time is NOW. You have been feeling at war with your body and confused about your relationship with food. You are ready to heal the underlying issues that led you to be preoccupied with your body and food. You have tried other approaches and are ready to heal the root causes. You are highly sensitive, intelligent, intuitive and creative and focusing on food and your body has been a way to manage being a thin skinned person in a thick skinned world. You have a sense that your body could be a resource in healing and reclaiming trust with yourself.
The best time to mend your relationship with your body is 20 years ago. The second best time is NOW. You have been feeling at war with your body and confused about your relationship with food. You are ready to heal the underlying issues that led you to be preoccupied with your body and food. You have tried other approaches and are ready to heal the root causes. You are highly sensitive, intelligent, intuitive and creative and focusing on food and your body has been a way to manage being a thin skinned person in a thick skinned world. You have a sense that your body could be a resource in healing and reclaiming trust with yourself.
(828) 882-2621 View (828) 882-2621
Photo of Waystation Counseling PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Waystation Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
(NIGHT AND WEEKEND AVAILABIILITY in NC and FL!!) Are you looking for kindness and compassion? Or do you want to hear things straight? We have several well qualified professional and if we don't have a fit we will help find you someone! Some of our focuses are Anxiety/ADHD, Parenting, Grief and Loss, Medical, Life Coaching, Mediation, Personality Disorders, Autism, OCD, Veterans, and Job Stress.
(NIGHT AND WEEKEND AVAILABIILITY in NC and FL!!) Are you looking for kindness and compassion? Or do you want to hear things straight? We have several well qualified professional and if we don't have a fit we will help find you someone! Some of our focuses are Anxiety/ADHD, Parenting, Grief and Loss, Medical, Life Coaching, Mediation, Personality Disorders, Autism, OCD, Veterans, and Job Stress.
(704) 459-1319 View (704) 459-1319
Photo of Maria Paredes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander County, NC
Maria Paredes
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27405
Tired of hating your body? Of waiting until you lose weight to pursue your goals or dreams? Do you struggle with binge or emotional eating and want to be able to enjoy food again? Do you have a medical condition like PCOS that makes it difficult to trust your body? Imagine spending your days focused on the people, activities, and ideas you love. Free from negative thinking, fear of food, and body hate. It is possible! You deserve to enjoy food, to move in ways that feel joyful, and to treat your body kindly and gently. I help people feel at home in their bodies, make peace with food, and live fuller lives.
Tired of hating your body? Of waiting until you lose weight to pursue your goals or dreams? Do you struggle with binge or emotional eating and want to be able to enjoy food again? Do you have a medical condition like PCOS that makes it difficult to trust your body? Imagine spending your days focused on the people, activities, and ideas you love. Free from negative thinking, fear of food, and body hate. It is possible! You deserve to enjoy food, to move in ways that feel joyful, and to treat your body kindly and gently. I help people feel at home in their bodies, make peace with food, and live fuller lives.
(336) 792-5504 View (336) 792-5504
Photo of Wisdom Path, PLLC, Psychologist in Alexander County, NC
Wisdom Path, PLLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28655
If you are looking for quality therapy by clinicians who treat you as a whole, unique person (body, mind, and spirit), Wisdom Path is a good fit for you. Everyone is exposed to multiple stresses, and we struggle with the demands of a fast-paced society. Often, we develop unhealthy ways of compulsively numbing ourselves though work, food, sex, gambling, shopping, substances, or social media. At Wisdom Path, we facilitate you becoming fully present in your life, creating meaning, and developing intimate connections with others. We don't just treat mental health issues; we promote wellness and growth.
If you are looking for quality therapy by clinicians who treat you as a whole, unique person (body, mind, and spirit), Wisdom Path is a good fit for you. Everyone is exposed to multiple stresses, and we struggle with the demands of a fast-paced society. Often, we develop unhealthy ways of compulsively numbing ourselves though work, food, sex, gambling, shopping, substances, or social media. At Wisdom Path, we facilitate you becoming fully present in your life, creating meaning, and developing intimate connections with others. We don't just treat mental health issues; we promote wellness and growth.
(828) 475-8940 View (828) 475-8940
Photo of Ezra K Post, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Ezra K Post
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28806
I am a somatic psychotherapist and clinical supervisor, who enjoys working with people from all human backgrounds. I have been in practice 13 years. I specialize in trauma and attachment resolution, and the various mental/emotional/relational difficulties that can stem from trauma and attachment wounding. I also have a great passion and skill for working out patterns of oppression in the body. Aliveness, strength, respect, laughter, kindness, humility… these are all qualities central to the work I do. Together we will create an alliance to discover the true and beautiful health that exists inside you, and let your truest self shine!
I am a somatic psychotherapist and clinical supervisor, who enjoys working with people from all human backgrounds. I have been in practice 13 years. I specialize in trauma and attachment resolution, and the various mental/emotional/relational difficulties that can stem from trauma and attachment wounding. I also have a great passion and skill for working out patterns of oppression in the body. Aliveness, strength, respect, laughter, kindness, humility… these are all qualities central to the work I do. Together we will create an alliance to discover the true and beautiful health that exists inside you, and let your truest self shine!
(828) 554-7937 View (828) 554-7937
Photo of Kirstin R. Abraham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Kirstin R. Abraham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marvin, NC 28173
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression or relationship difficulties? Do you want to lead a healthier, more fulfilling life? My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more meaningful life.
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression or relationship difficulties? Do you want to lead a healthier, more fulfilling life? My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more meaningful life.
(704) 233-7594 View (704) 233-7594
Photo of Tara Chandler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Tara Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I love working with individuals in the big transition stages of life. I have a passion for helping patients sort out the often confusing and disorienting realization that there is no "right" way to do things. Being a new parent, navigating relationships and intimacy, working through family relationhships and the every changing political climate are all transitions that interest me. The journey is about figuring out a happy medium between your way and what is acceptable to those that love and support you.
I love working with individuals in the big transition stages of life. I have a passion for helping patients sort out the often confusing and disorienting realization that there is no "right" way to do things. Being a new parent, navigating relationships and intimacy, working through family relationhships and the every changing political climate are all transitions that interest me. The journey is about figuring out a happy medium between your way and what is acceptable to those that love and support you.
(828) 575-9760 View (828) 575-9760
Photo of Mary Monaghan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Mary Monaghan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Stress, anxiety, uncertainty, and fear can feel overwhelming. You may find yourself turning to drugs or alcohol, harmful eating patterns, self-harm, or fall back on other old habits to cope with your emotions. You may be struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or fear. Maybe you are in recovery from addiction or an eating disorder, and are having trouble maintaining your progress. You may be navigating your gender and sexual identify. Or perhaps you are concerned that your teenager is dealing with some of these issues. Whatever you are facing, you are not alone! I am here to provide support, guidance, and encouragement.
Stress, anxiety, uncertainty, and fear can feel overwhelming. You may find yourself turning to drugs or alcohol, harmful eating patterns, self-harm, or fall back on other old habits to cope with your emotions. You may be struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or fear. Maybe you are in recovery from addiction or an eating disorder, and are having trouble maintaining your progress. You may be navigating your gender and sexual identify. Or perhaps you are concerned that your teenager is dealing with some of these issues. Whatever you are facing, you are not alone! I am here to provide support, guidance, and encouragement.
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Photo of Dr. Liz E. Slonena, Psychologist in Alexander County, NC
Dr. Liz E. Slonena
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP, MSCP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Exhausted by your loud inner critic? Overwhelmed by your neverending to-do list? Despite looking like you have your sh!t together, internally you may feel like a scattered fraud cosplaying as a human. Trying to be the perfect friend, perfect professional, or perfect partner all at once is exhausting. Maybe there's a deeper wound that hasn't healed yet. Perhaps you dream of feeling fulfilled, calm, & confident. To say "no" and actually mean it. To stop playing small & launch that creative idea. If you want to stress less & live authentically without fear or guilt, I’d love to help you step into your power.
Exhausted by your loud inner critic? Overwhelmed by your neverending to-do list? Despite looking like you have your sh!t together, internally you may feel like a scattered fraud cosplaying as a human. Trying to be the perfect friend, perfect professional, or perfect partner all at once is exhausting. Maybe there's a deeper wound that hasn't healed yet. Perhaps you dream of feeling fulfilled, calm, & confident. To say "no" and actually mean it. To stop playing small & launch that creative idea. If you want to stress less & live authentically without fear or guilt, I’d love to help you step into your power.
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See more therapy options for Alexander County

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.