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

Online Therapists

Photo of Olinda Davidson in Aurora, NC
Olinda Davidson
LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
You may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious from trying to hold it all together for everyone and everything. You put on a “happy” face and push through the day only to wonder if you will ever feel better. Until now, you’ve been able to manage it on your own, but it’s starting to affect other areas of your life and you can’t pretend everything is ok anymore. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, a relationship or health concerns but wherever the pain is coming from you are tired of feeling alone and stuck. You want to make lasting changes, but deciding where to start feels impossible. I’m here and I get it.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious from trying to hold it all together for everyone and everything. You put on a “happy” face and push through the day only to wonder if you will ever feel better. Until now, you’ve been able to manage it on your own, but it’s starting to affect other areas of your life and you can’t pretend everything is ok anymore. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, a relationship or health concerns but wherever the pain is coming from you are tired of feeling alone and stuck. You want to make lasting changes, but deciding where to start feels impossible. I’m here and I get it.
(252) 582-6024 View (252) 582-6024
Photo of Anita C Pardo, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Aurora, NC
Anita C Pardo
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Morehead City, NC 28557  (Online Only)
What would be my ideal client? An adult with Trauma, Codependency, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Depression, Grief or Chronic Pain that needs virtual sessions. If a person has limited time or transportation, Telemedicine is available to meet their needs but still in a way that is personal. Individualized care in a Judgement Free Zone is offered to any person with any background. All stories are welcomed.
What would be my ideal client? An adult with Trauma, Codependency, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Depression, Grief or Chronic Pain that needs virtual sessions. If a person has limited time or transportation, Telemedicine is available to meet their needs but still in a way that is personal. Individualized care in a Judgement Free Zone is offered to any person with any background. All stories are welcomed.
(252) 675-4923 View (252) 675-4923
Photo of Tita Johnson, Counselor in Aurora, NC
Tita Johnson
Counselor, LCMHC, LPC/S, MAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27804  (Online Only)
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
(843) 428-6596 View (843) 428-6596
Photo of Dana Cea, Counselor in Aurora, NC
Dana Cea
Counselor, PhD, MS, CPSS, CRC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikeville, NC 27863  (Online Only)
I also identify as a person in recovery with severe and persistent mental illness.
Whether this is your first or the millionth therapist you have reached out to, you are taking the time to find the best fit. Have you diagnosed yourself with autism? Or felt an autism diagnosis is the missing part of your life? Maybe you have felt “different” your whole life, or perhaps you recently started exploring the possibility of neurodivergence. You may be struggling to connect with others or simply to survive day-to-day. Perhaps you’re feeling frustrated and want the answers you have been searching for.
I also identify as a person in recovery with severe and persistent mental illness.
Whether this is your first or the millionth therapist you have reached out to, you are taking the time to find the best fit. Have you diagnosed yourself with autism? Or felt an autism diagnosis is the missing part of your life? Maybe you have felt “different” your whole life, or perhaps you recently started exploring the possibility of neurodivergence. You may be struggling to connect with others or simply to survive day-to-day. Perhaps you’re feeling frustrated and want the answers you have been searching for.
(252) 254-2510 View (252) 254-2510
Photo of Teresa Cox Mayle, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Aurora, NC
Teresa Cox Mayle
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MSRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Gaston, NC 27832
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is a child, adolescent or adult who experiences anxiety, depression or confusion finding the right path.They have experienced trauma or emotional pain from complex life situations, medical issues, career situations, relationships or are overwhelmed by life. They seek guidance from someone with lived experience and special skills to ease their distress and help them find a way out. They need to feel someone cares while they new insights and coping strategies to find peace and move on with their life. They use these new insights and life skills guide them with new confidence through the next life adventure.
My ideal client is a child, adolescent or adult who experiences anxiety, depression or confusion finding the right path.They have experienced trauma or emotional pain from complex life situations, medical issues, career situations, relationships or are overwhelmed by life. They seek guidance from someone with lived experience and special skills to ease their distress and help them find a way out. They need to feel someone cares while they new insights and coping strategies to find peace and move on with their life. They use these new insights and life skills guide them with new confidence through the next life adventure.
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Photo of Catherine A McGrogan, Psychologist in Aurora, NC
Catherine A McGrogan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kitty Hawk, NC 27949
I have been in full-time private practice as a clinical and counseling psychologist for 31 years. I completed a hospital internship and have spent my career seeing not only patients with emotional disorders, but also patients with medical diagnoses such as chronic pain, cancer, multiple sclerosis, heart disease, and morbid obesity. I have considerable experience with psychological testing and use tests to help patients' physicians and psychiatrists find the optimal psychotropic medications for their symptoms. I have been trained in traditional psychodynamic therapy but also employ a variety of treatment modalities including cognitive and behavioral therapies and family therapy.
I have been in full-time private practice as a clinical and counseling psychologist for 31 years. I completed a hospital internship and have spent my career seeing not only patients with emotional disorders, but also patients with medical diagnoses such as chronic pain, cancer, multiple sclerosis, heart disease, and morbid obesity. I have considerable experience with psychological testing and use tests to help patients' physicians and psychiatrists find the optimal psychotropic medications for their symptoms. I have been trained in traditional psychodynamic therapy but also employ a variety of treatment modalities including cognitive and behavioral therapies and family therapy.
(252) 368-2143 View (252) 368-2143
Photo of Michele Ruhmann, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Aurora, NC
Michele Ruhmann
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28560
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is on working with people who are experiencing anxiety, pain, trauma recovery, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained, stuck and you don’t know what to do or where to turn next? Moving forward can sometimes feel daunting but you can do it. Begin to take back your power today! You can learn to manage the chaos, calm those defeating thoughts, ease the tension in your body and begin to feel positive. Your story has a purpose and is as unique as you are, we will work together to create a tailored therapy experience to meet your goals using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), somatic bodywork, and traditional talk therapy.
My focus is on working with people who are experiencing anxiety, pain, trauma recovery, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained, stuck and you don’t know what to do or where to turn next? Moving forward can sometimes feel daunting but you can do it. Begin to take back your power today! You can learn to manage the chaos, calm those defeating thoughts, ease the tension in your body and begin to feel positive. Your story has a purpose and is as unique as you are, we will work together to create a tailored therapy experience to meet your goals using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), somatic bodywork, and traditional talk therapy.
(252) 379-5081 View (252) 379-5081
Photo of Marcy Arnold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Aurora, NC
Marcy Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
(252) 772-9378 View (252) 772-9378
Photo of Anne Mauldin, Psychologist in Aurora, NC
Anne Mauldin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
(252) 455-9998 View (252) 455-9998
Photo of Rob Moser, Counselor in Aurora, NC
Rob Moser
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
(910) 812-8310 View (910) 812-8310
Photo of Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling in Aurora, NC
Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling
MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, NC 27889  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be…a bit of a rollercoaster at times and can often feel unmanageable. If you find yourself becoming bogged down by life’s twists and turns, I’m here to help! My name is Courtney Howard and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. My mission is to provide a safe space for you to explore, repair, and grow. Taking the steps to begin a counseling journey isn’t easy and I’m proud of you for searching for a therapist to fit your needs. Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, suffering with illness, grieving, or struggling with mood? Then I may be the perfect fit for you!
Life can be…a bit of a rollercoaster at times and can often feel unmanageable. If you find yourself becoming bogged down by life’s twists and turns, I’m here to help! My name is Courtney Howard and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. My mission is to provide a safe space for you to explore, repair, and grow. Taking the steps to begin a counseling journey isn’t easy and I’m proud of you for searching for a therapist to fit your needs. Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, suffering with illness, grieving, or struggling with mood? Then I may be the perfect fit for you!
(252) 486-5072 View (252) 486-5072
Photo of Jennifer Tremblay Pettee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Aurora, NC
Jennifer Tremblay Pettee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cape Carteret, NC 28584  (Online Only)
Together, we can work to reduce emotional pain and stress and instead develop an overall sense of wellness.
Overwhelmed? We can be overwhelmed by many things; work/family demands, grief, romantic relationships, health, traumatic events, and so on. Sometimes, even when we feel like we SHOULD be happy, we are not. At Bonne Journée PLLC, I take a "Big Picture" approach to help empower clients to sort out what is meaningful and helpful in their lives.
Together, we can work to reduce emotional pain and stress and instead develop an overall sense of wellness.
Overwhelmed? We can be overwhelmed by many things; work/family demands, grief, romantic relationships, health, traumatic events, and so on. Sometimes, even when we feel like we SHOULD be happy, we are not. At Bonne Journée PLLC, I take a "Big Picture" approach to help empower clients to sort out what is meaningful and helpful in their lives.
(252) 542-2160 View (252) 542-2160
Photo of Teresa Vaughan, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Aurora, NC
Teresa Vaughan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
I am grounded in CBT, but also believe in the power of art and movement in the healing of emotional pain.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change.
I am grounded in CBT, but also believe in the power of art and movement in the healing of emotional pain.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change.
(252) 689-7203 View (252) 689-7203
Photo of Dr. Ralph Fox II, Licensed Professional Counselor in Aurora, NC
Dr. Ralph Fox II
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
(910) 216-4872 View (910) 216-4872
Photo of Sarah Brownlee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Aurora, NC
Sarah Brownlee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
At some point in our lives, we all experience pain or illness. So, what happens when pain or illness becomes a defining point in our lives? We may not do the things we used to do, we may not feel like ourselves, we may not live our lives the way we thought we would. BALANCE Integrative Care, PLLC, recognizes how broadly and deeply pain or illness may affect our lives. Our services support people to manage or cope with pain or illness in a way that allows them to live their lives more fully.
At some point in our lives, we all experience pain or illness. So, what happens when pain or illness becomes a defining point in our lives? We may not do the things we used to do, we may not feel like ourselves, we may not live our lives the way we thought we would. BALANCE Integrative Care, PLLC, recognizes how broadly and deeply pain or illness may affect our lives. Our services support people to manage or cope with pain or illness in a way that allows them to live their lives more fully.
(910) 663-4525 View (910) 663-4525
Photo of Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC , Counselor in Aurora, NC
Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LCMHCS , LCAS, CCS, LPC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
(252) 336-9687 View (252) 336-9687
Photo of Morgan Lankford, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Aurora, NC
Morgan Lankford
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CBIS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28411
Among my many specialties I can assist you in: trying to find balance in daily life; decreasing anxiety and/or depression; repairing relationship or family issues; coping with PTSD; fighting chronic pain; and improving caregiver skills.
Sometimes life’s burdens can seem too heavy; daily stresses too overpowering. Everyone needs a little guidance from time to time from someone who can help us see and use the deep reserves of the strength that lies within us. Recognizing a problem is the first step towards finding a solution. To seek help for the problem is a sign of courage, not weakness. The goal of therapy is to empower you and to provide you with the skills needed to independently solve your problem. I am here to provide support and help you in developing ways to cope with life's struggles.
Among my many specialties I can assist you in: trying to find balance in daily life; decreasing anxiety and/or depression; repairing relationship or family issues; coping with PTSD; fighting chronic pain; and improving caregiver skills.
Sometimes life’s burdens can seem too heavy; daily stresses too overpowering. Everyone needs a little guidance from time to time from someone who can help us see and use the deep reserves of the strength that lies within us. Recognizing a problem is the first step towards finding a solution. To seek help for the problem is a sign of courage, not weakness. The goal of therapy is to empower you and to provide you with the skills needed to independently solve your problem. I am here to provide support and help you in developing ways to cope with life's struggles.
(910) 294-5842 View (910) 294-5842
Photo of Eastern Trauma & Recovery, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Aurora, NC
Eastern Trauma & Recovery
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS-A, Trauma, CCTS-S, CFTP, Crisis
Verified Verified
Spring Hope, NC 27882
Needed: 1099 counselor. Contact if interested. Please leave me a message so that I can return your call ASAP. Thank you. No one as a child stated, "I want to abuse drugs" or "I want to experience trauma" (ie car wreck, rape). Life happens and sometimes it becomes out of control. Understanding trauma and/or addiction, or even them together, can help an individual to feel as though they are being heard. It is my honor to help you walk through your pain and begin to live life once more without the heaviness of the past.
Needed: 1099 counselor. Contact if interested. Please leave me a message so that I can return your call ASAP. Thank you. No one as a child stated, "I want to abuse drugs" or "I want to experience trauma" (ie car wreck, rape). Life happens and sometimes it becomes out of control. Understanding trauma and/or addiction, or even them together, can help an individual to feel as though they are being heard. It is my honor to help you walk through your pain and begin to live life once more without the heaviness of the past.
(252) 477-7662 View (252) 477-7662
Photo of Palms Wellness Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Aurora, NC
Palms Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28546
Have you been suffering from Grief & Loss, terminally ill, or just feeling alone and isolated, unheard? Need someone that will truly listen and talk "with you"? Taking things at your pace, understanding your needs, we provide "care" because we care. We can help you through what may be the hardest challenges you have faced. Have you lost yourself or a loved one to Opioid Addiction and need help with medication management and therapy? We have over 16 years helping people build new lives which allows them to move forward by healing forward. We also provide "Pet/Fur Kids" Loss therapy as we at PWC "all" relate first hand to this pain.
Have you been suffering from Grief & Loss, terminally ill, or just feeling alone and isolated, unheard? Need someone that will truly listen and talk "with you"? Taking things at your pace, understanding your needs, we provide "care" because we care. We can help you through what may be the hardest challenges you have faced. Have you lost yourself or a loved one to Opioid Addiction and need help with medication management and therapy? We have over 16 years helping people build new lives which allows them to move forward by healing forward. We also provide "Pet/Fur Kids" Loss therapy as we at PWC "all" relate first hand to this pain.
(910) 758-2346 View (910) 758-2346
Photo of C. Anne Whitfield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Aurora, NC
C. Anne Whitfield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28540
Anne treats a variety of clinical disorders, including mood disorders, attention and focus issues, stress management, relationship/martial issues, domestic violence and child abuse, grief and loss, women’s issues, and cultural lifestyle issues. Anne has been active in providing services to active-duty service members and their families coping with domestic violence. Additionally, she has a passion for working with teachers that teach exceptional children or children with challenging behavioral issues in the classroom. As well as individuals coping with chronic health conditions to cope and process their illness.
Anne treats a variety of clinical disorders, including mood disorders, attention and focus issues, stress management, relationship/martial issues, domestic violence and child abuse, grief and loss, women’s issues, and cultural lifestyle issues. Anne has been active in providing services to active-duty service members and their families coping with domestic violence. Additionally, she has a passion for working with teachers that teach exceptional children or children with challenging behavioral issues in the classroom. As well as individuals coping with chronic health conditions to cope and process their illness.
(910) 335-4253 View (910) 335-4253
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.