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Online Therapists

Photo of Ashley Merchant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avery County, NC
Ashley Merchant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brevard, NC 28712  (Online Only)
We live in a world quickly changing with many demands and stressors. Therapy is like working out at a gym. Instead, it is building inner strength and emotional fitness. Traumas or events can happen in life leading to a dysregulated nervous system. We can experience the loss of a job, partner, or identity; the loss of a loved one or pet; disease, illness, financial instability; relationship or family issues, or housing crisis that spin our worlds upside down. Maybe it is low self-worth, stress, or feeling stuck in life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to be a supportive ally for your growth.
We live in a world quickly changing with many demands and stressors. Therapy is like working out at a gym. Instead, it is building inner strength and emotional fitness. Traumas or events can happen in life leading to a dysregulated nervous system. We can experience the loss of a job, partner, or identity; the loss of a loved one or pet; disease, illness, financial instability; relationship or family issues, or housing crisis that spin our worlds upside down. Maybe it is low self-worth, stress, or feeling stuck in life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to be a supportive ally for your growth.
(828) 622-4095 View (828) 622-4095
Photo of Chronic Health Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avery County, NC
Chronic Health Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025
Living with a chronic medical condition such as diabetes, chronic pain, cancer, or neurological disorders can take a toll on our emotional well-being making it even more difficult to live with the illness. Whether you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition, or have been living with a chronic illness for many years emotions such as sadness, hopelessness, fear, anxiety, and even anger can emerge making life difficult to face. I am here to help you find ways to express such emotions and work toward finding a sense of peace and joy.
Living with a chronic medical condition such as diabetes, chronic pain, cancer, or neurological disorders can take a toll on our emotional well-being making it even more difficult to live with the illness. Whether you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition, or have been living with a chronic illness for many years emotions such as sadness, hopelessness, fear, anxiety, and even anger can emerge making life difficult to face. I am here to help you find ways to express such emotions and work toward finding a sense of peace and joy.
(704) 842-9915 View (704) 842-9915
Photo of Tiffany Schiffner, Psychologist in Avery 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 Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avery County, NC
Lisa Lavelle Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
(828) 360-8820 View (828) 360-8820
Photo of Ibs Anxiety - Trauma And Anger Support Martha Watson in Avery County, NC
Ibs Anxiety - Trauma And Anger Support Martha Watson
PhD, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Specialties: Trauma & PTSD (Online Men's Trauma Coaching), Anxiety & Stress Management, Stress Reduction for Cancer Patients, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, Chronic Illness, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome Coaching), Pain Management, Spirituality, Spiritual Care, Anger, Mindfulness, Emotional Regulation, and Mind-body Medicine.
Struggling with Trauma, IBS/Anxiety, or a Child's Anger? Integrated care addresses both mental and physical health challenges. Adults can overcome trauma, PTSD, stress, and anxiety. Children receive specialized support for anger, social challenges, or sensitivity. Parents of children with ADD/ADHD or "intuitive" traits can also find support. Combining CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine, this approach empowers your healing journey, achieving lasting well-being by addressing the root causes of your struggles. Book your complimentary online consultation today and start your path to a healthier, happier you!
Specialties: Trauma & PTSD (Online Men's Trauma Coaching), Anxiety & Stress Management, Stress Reduction for Cancer Patients, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, Chronic Illness, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome Coaching), Pain Management, Spirituality, Spiritual Care, Anger, Mindfulness, Emotional Regulation, and Mind-body Medicine.
Struggling with Trauma, IBS/Anxiety, or a Child's Anger? Integrated care addresses both mental and physical health challenges. Adults can overcome trauma, PTSD, stress, and anxiety. Children receive specialized support for anger, social challenges, or sensitivity. Parents of children with ADD/ADHD or "intuitive" traits can also find support. Combining CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine, this approach empowers your healing journey, achieving lasting well-being by addressing the root causes of your struggles. Book your complimentary online consultation today and start your path to a healthier, happier you!
(828) 888-0944 View (828) 888-0944
Photo of Shelly Luttman Phelps, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avery County, NC
Shelly Luttman Phelps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
Have you faced struggles with depression and anxiety possibly due to illness, family conflict, loss, work or relationship issues? Has it been difficult for you to cope with and overcome these emotions on your own? If so, you’re not alone. We all need support from time to time, yet many of us may not feel comfortable asking for help or sharing intimate details with friends or family. Within my practice, you will find a safe & nonjudgmental environment where we can explore these obstacles together, help you heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in life.
Have you faced struggles with depression and anxiety possibly due to illness, family conflict, loss, work or relationship issues? Has it been difficult for you to cope with and overcome these emotions on your own? If so, you’re not alone. We all need support from time to time, yet many of us may not feel comfortable asking for help or sharing intimate details with friends or family. Within my practice, you will find a safe & nonjudgmental environment where we can explore these obstacles together, help you heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in life.
(704) 912-0444 View (704) 912-0444
Photo of Forsyth Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avery County, NC
Forsyth Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
(336) 750-6021 View (336) 750-6021
Photo of Appalachian Counseling and Psychological Services in Avery County, NC
Appalachian Counseling and Psychological Services
MA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Appalachian Counseling and Psychological Services is a full service testing center providing psychological and neuropsychological testing. We provide diagnostic testing for assessments for mood disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, learning disabilities, giftedness, parental fitness evaluations, assessments for cognitive functioning, and post-concussion cognitive assessments.
Appalachian Counseling and Psychological Services is a full service testing center providing psychological and neuropsychological testing. We provide diagnostic testing for assessments for mood disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, learning disabilities, giftedness, parental fitness evaluations, assessments for cognitive functioning, and post-concussion cognitive assessments.
(828) 372-0432 View (828) 372-0432
Photo of Keri Renee Willis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avery County, NC
Keri Renee Willis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I specialize in EMDR (processes traumatic memories/core beliefs), Parts Work influenced by Internal Family Systems (systems of protective and wounded inner parts lead by a core Self), and Mindfulness-Based Somatic Therapy (emotions/sensations in the body in the present moment). I also use a variety of other forms of psychotherapy including Hakomi, Contemplative, Person-Centered (Rogerian), Existential, Relational Life Therapy, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. I provide a safe, nonjudgemental space for you to turn toward your experience. A whole body-mind approach has the ability to transform, much more than talk therapy alone.
I specialize in EMDR (processes traumatic memories/core beliefs), Parts Work influenced by Internal Family Systems (systems of protective and wounded inner parts lead by a core Self), and Mindfulness-Based Somatic Therapy (emotions/sensations in the body in the present moment). I also use a variety of other forms of psychotherapy including Hakomi, Contemplative, Person-Centered (Rogerian), Existential, Relational Life Therapy, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. I provide a safe, nonjudgemental space for you to turn toward your experience. A whole body-mind approach has the ability to transform, much more than talk therapy alone.
(828) 330-9248 View (828) 330-9248
Photo of House Call Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Avery County, NC
House Call Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Life is complicated, but finding support for your mental health doesn't have to be. At House Call Counseling, we bring the haven of therapy directly to you, whether it's over the phone or in your own home. Since 2018, we've been the Triad's trusted partner in mental well-being, offering our unique blend of home-based and telehealth therapy. Our compassionate therapists are just a click away, ready to guide you through life's challenges with personalized care.
Life is complicated, but finding support for your mental health doesn't have to be. At House Call Counseling, we bring the haven of therapy directly to you, whether it's over the phone or in your own home. Since 2018, we've been the Triad's trusted partner in mental well-being, offering our unique blend of home-based and telehealth therapy. Our compassionate therapists are just a click away, ready to guide you through life's challenges with personalized care.
(336) 221-3912 View (336) 221-3912
Photo of Jeannine Bodner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avery County, NC
Jeannine Bodner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036
I respect the courage that it takes to seek help when life's challenges become overwhelming. It is often a very painful place that can be difficult to share with another person. I am very sensitive to the fact that the first step can be the most difficult. I use a collaborative, compassionate approach with my clients. I rely on my knowledge and experience coupled with theoretical approaches to customize a plan for the individual situation. The goal is to work toward holistic balance.
I respect the courage that it takes to seek help when life's challenges become overwhelming. It is often a very painful place that can be difficult to share with another person. I am very sensitive to the fact that the first step can be the most difficult. I use a collaborative, compassionate approach with my clients. I rely on my knowledge and experience coupled with theoretical approaches to customize a plan for the individual situation. The goal is to work toward holistic balance.
(704) 851-8218 View (704) 851-8218
Photo of Heather M. MacLachlan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avery County, NC
Heather M. MacLachlan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I am passionate about connecting, supporting and validating clients through life's challenges. I recognize that the world can be a difficult place at times, and everyone can use encouragement, the ability to gain insight, and inspiration. My goal is to work with clients to recognize that the critical voice in your head isn't actually telling the truth. It can be tricky to believe in yourself and find your inner strength when your head tells you the opposite! I like helping clients find their authentic inner voice, that inspires positivity, empowerment, and the ability to believe in the goodness within all of us.
I am passionate about connecting, supporting and validating clients through life's challenges. I recognize that the world can be a difficult place at times, and everyone can use encouragement, the ability to gain insight, and inspiration. My goal is to work with clients to recognize that the critical voice in your head isn't actually telling the truth. It can be tricky to believe in yourself and find your inner strength when your head tells you the opposite! I like helping clients find their authentic inner voice, that inspires positivity, empowerment, and the ability to believe in the goodness within all of us.
(828) 622-5069 View (828) 622-5069
Photo of Katherine Therrell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avery County, NC
Katherine Therrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arden, NC 28704
My clients are adults, adolescents, and children who need help coping with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, abuse, educational/employment situations, family dynamics, or other problems impacting their mental health. Though I practice Cognative Behavioral Therapy, I employ a variety of methods including "talk therapy", EMDR, sand therapy, and play therapy, depending upon individual need. I strive to provide unconditional acceptance and support to my clients as they work to achieve their counseling goals. I accept Medicaid and most private insurance.
My clients are adults, adolescents, and children who need help coping with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, abuse, educational/employment situations, family dynamics, or other problems impacting their mental health. Though I practice Cognative Behavioral Therapy, I employ a variety of methods including "talk therapy", EMDR, sand therapy, and play therapy, depending upon individual need. I strive to provide unconditional acceptance and support to my clients as they work to achieve their counseling goals. I accept Medicaid and most private insurance.
(828) 565-1925 View (828) 565-1925
Photo of Tiffany Summers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avery County, NC
Tiffany Summers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
You deserve peace and happiness! If you are struggling with depression or anxiety, you don't have to go this alone. Taking the first step towards seeking support is an act of courage and self-care. As a dedicated clinical social worker with a passion for empowering individuals, I am here to support you on your journey toward improved mental well-being and emotional strength.
You deserve peace and happiness! If you are struggling with depression or anxiety, you don't have to go this alone. Taking the first step towards seeking support is an act of courage and self-care. As a dedicated clinical social worker with a passion for empowering individuals, I am here to support you on your journey toward improved mental well-being and emotional strength.
(919) 899-2040 View (919) 899-2040
Photo of Footprints Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Avery County, NC
Footprints Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Clients come to me in trying times for help dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, grief issues, and anger issues. I don't see myself as the "expert" who is going to provide all the "answers" but I do promise to walk with my clients as they address the issues we identify together that they want to address in therapy. I am comfortable working with clients individuals, couples and families, and kids (age 9 to adults). I have been theologically trained and can explore spiritual issues and crises as a pastoral counselor, also.
Clients come to me in trying times for help dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, grief issues, and anger issues. I don't see myself as the "expert" who is going to provide all the "answers" but I do promise to walk with my clients as they address the issues we identify together that they want to address in therapy. I am comfortable working with clients individuals, couples and families, and kids (age 9 to adults). I have been theologically trained and can explore spiritual issues and crises as a pastoral counselor, also.
(336) 939-0412 View (336) 939-0412
Photo of N. Diane Stamey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Avery County, NC
N. Diane Stamey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT, LFBPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook@Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook@Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
(828) 348-6863 View (828) 348-6863
Photo of Melissa Snodgrass, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avery County, NC
Melissa Snodgrass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226  (Online Only)
My approach revolves around creating a supportive and empathetic environment with clients. I prioritize establishing a safe and confidential space where clients feel comfortable sharing their challenges and concerns. Recognizing the unique needs of this demographic, I employ a person-centered approach that values individual experiences and fosters a sense of validation. By actively listening and tailoring therapeutic interventions to each client's specific circumstances, I aim to instill a sense of hope and optimism about the future.
My approach revolves around creating a supportive and empathetic environment with clients. I prioritize establishing a safe and confidential space where clients feel comfortable sharing their challenges and concerns. Recognizing the unique needs of this demographic, I employ a person-centered approach that values individual experiences and fosters a sense of validation. By actively listening and tailoring therapeutic interventions to each client's specific circumstances, I aim to instill a sense of hope and optimism about the future.
(704) 459-3833 View (704) 459-3833
Photo of Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Avery County, NC
Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCASA, CEO
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28217
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
(336) 502-8218 View (336) 502-8218
Photo of Sandra Schoonover, PhD, Psychologist in Avery County, NC
Sandra Schoonover, PhD
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy offers a place and relationship in which to be heard, to be understood and to experience growth and change. My practice offers opportunities to a wide variety of people for insight and understanding that makes a difference in how life is lived. Therapy begins with the development of a meaningful relationship grounded in compassion, patience and appreciation for your needs and personal experiences.I work with individuals seeking general insight and self-discovery to those suffering from chronic or debilitating issues. My practice involves work with individuals, couples and families.
Therapy offers a place and relationship in which to be heard, to be understood and to experience growth and change. My practice offers opportunities to a wide variety of people for insight and understanding that makes a difference in how life is lived. Therapy begins with the development of a meaningful relationship grounded in compassion, patience and appreciation for your needs and personal experiences.I work with individuals seeking general insight and self-discovery to those suffering from chronic or debilitating issues. My practice involves work with individuals, couples and families.
(704) 766-8675 View (704) 766-8675
Photo of Kim Latham Moseley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avery County, NC
Kim Latham Moseley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, making a life transition, experiencing loss or feeling stuck, it requires looking at your whole self! I have over 30 years of experience ranging from working in hospice and bereavement care to assisting older adults and their families as a Geriatric Care Manager, as well as being a Certified Integrative Health Coach from Duke Integrative Medicine and doing Integrative Psychotherapy. I will skillfully help you become your true and best self with the necessary tools to build a healthy, meaningful life, not in spite of, but because of, any challenges you face.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, making a life transition, experiencing loss or feeling stuck, it requires looking at your whole self! I have over 30 years of experience ranging from working in hospice and bereavement care to assisting older adults and their families as a Geriatric Care Manager, as well as being a Certified Integrative Health Coach from Duke Integrative Medicine and doing Integrative Psychotherapy. I will skillfully help you become your true and best self with the necessary tools to build a healthy, meaningful life, not in spite of, but because of, any challenges you face.
(704) 207-0774 View (704) 207-0774

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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.