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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sandy Van Horn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Balsam, NC
Sandy Van Horn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT200, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sylva, NC 28779
I believe growth occurs when we courageously stay along the edges of our comfort zone and gently press into that boundary widening it inch by inch. I believe healing occurs when we fully allow ourselves to feel our pain, to sit with it, to befriend it, and to find out that it has edges and boundaries ... a beginning and an end. If you've been struggling with life - that can be big and small things - we can work together to identify challenges and build your capacity to move in the direction of optimal healing and wellness.
I believe growth occurs when we courageously stay along the edges of our comfort zone and gently press into that boundary widening it inch by inch. I believe healing occurs when we fully allow ourselves to feel our pain, to sit with it, to befriend it, and to find out that it has edges and boundaries ... a beginning and an end. If you've been struggling with life - that can be big and small things - we can work together to identify challenges and build your capacity to move in the direction of optimal healing and wellness.
(828) 268-3363 View (828) 268-3363
Photo of Ashley Merchant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Balsam, NC
Ashley Merchant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28785  (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 Erin Iraggi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Balsam, NC
Erin Iraggi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
Many of us struggle with patterns of distressing emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I believe it is not what is wrong with you, but what has happened to you that causes emotional difficulty in life. If you are a human being alive today, then you have experienced some type of trauma or ongoing stress that therapy can help address. I work with adults 18+ struggling with any of the symptoms caused by trauma or chronic stress. These symptoms may include depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, chronic pain or health conditions, difficulty in relationships or parenting, and addictive behaviors to name a few.
Many of us struggle with patterns of distressing emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I believe it is not what is wrong with you, but what has happened to you that causes emotional difficulty in life. If you are a human being alive today, then you have experienced some type of trauma or ongoing stress that therapy can help address. I work with adults 18+ struggling with any of the symptoms caused by trauma or chronic stress. These symptoms may include depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, chronic pain or health conditions, difficulty in relationships or parenting, and addictive behaviors to name a few.
(828) 522-9278 View (828) 522-9278
Photo of Janet J. Zander, Licensed Professional Counselor in Balsam, NC
Janet J. Zander
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, PLLC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
Are you looking to improve health in mind, body and spirit? I believe healing comes from dimensions including physical, mental and emotional health, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, relationships and spiritual life. My approach is strength based, empathic and interactive. My training has been in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, trauma, PTSD, grief/loss, relationships and family issues. My aim is to provide a supportive and safe space where we can collaborate and work at your own pace to help you reach your goals.
Are you looking to improve health in mind, body and spirit? I believe healing comes from dimensions including physical, mental and emotional health, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, relationships and spiritual life. My approach is strength based, empathic and interactive. My training has been in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, trauma, PTSD, grief/loss, relationships and family issues. My aim is to provide a supportive and safe space where we can collaborate and work at your own pace to help you reach your goals.
(828) 618-4684 View (828) 618-4684
Photo of Marie Romeo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Balsam, NC
Marie Romeo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sylva, NC 28779  (Online Only)
I believe that we are all on a similar journey in life....to be fully connected and authentic people, and to integrate the different parts of ourselves so that we can experience love and joy and meaningful relationships. In our work together it is my hope that we can explore the different parts of yourself that keeps you from these connections and explore what it means to feel safe. Through exploring shame and early childhood trauma, depression and anxiety, as well as body love and acceptance, we can work together to support a deepening of your self-awareness and find compassion and connection to heal and nurture your deepest self.
I believe that we are all on a similar journey in life....to be fully connected and authentic people, and to integrate the different parts of ourselves so that we can experience love and joy and meaningful relationships. In our work together it is my hope that we can explore the different parts of yourself that keeps you from these connections and explore what it means to feel safe. Through exploring shame and early childhood trauma, depression and anxiety, as well as body love and acceptance, we can work together to support a deepening of your self-awareness and find compassion and connection to heal and nurture your deepest self.
(828) 392-5148 View (828) 392-5148
Photo of Laura Saune, Counselor in Balsam, NC
Laura Saune
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28785  (Online Only)
I'm a holistic, multicultural therapist helping teens and adults with trauma, eating disorders, self-worth, body image, anxiety and depression. I'm EMDR trained and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. If you've experienced a traumatic event I can help you gently work towards healing, return to your "old self" and develop resiliency. If you are struggling with negative body image or disordered eating you may be consumed by thoughts of calories or are very unhappy with your body. You are not alone. I'm here to help you uncover the roots of your eating disorder and rebuild a strong sense of fulfillment.
I'm a holistic, multicultural therapist helping teens and adults with trauma, eating disorders, self-worth, body image, anxiety and depression. I'm EMDR trained and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. If you've experienced a traumatic event I can help you gently work towards healing, return to your "old self" and develop resiliency. If you are struggling with negative body image or disordered eating you may be consumed by thoughts of calories or are very unhappy with your body. You are not alone. I'm here to help you uncover the roots of your eating disorder and rebuild a strong sense of fulfillment.
(704) 703-7269 View (704) 703-7269
Photo of N. Diane Stamey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Balsam, NC
N. Diane Stamey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT, LFBPC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28785
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 Mary Monaghan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Balsam, NC
Mary Monaghan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28785
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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Online Therapists

Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Balsam, 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 Guy Morganstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Balsam, NC
Guy Morganstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I also enjoy working with people dealing with chronic pain and illness, and those with LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
I also enjoy working with people dealing with chronic pain and illness, and those with LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
(828) 337-7549 View (828) 337-7549
Photo of Melissa Middlebrook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Balsam, NC
Melissa Middlebrook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MPH, RYT200
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28806
Waitlist for new clients
None of us are immune to life's challenges and we also don't come with instructions on how to navigate these. We often carry our past experiences and stress without realizing it— to the point where we feel it not only emotionally, but also in our physical bodies. Research confirms the mind and body aren’t so separate after all, but more of an interdependent unit greatly influencing one another. Past traumas, anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, chronic illness, difficult life transition, caught in the cycles of shame + self criticism; these are all labels and struggles many of us identify with at some point, but they don't define us.
None of us are immune to life's challenges and we also don't come with instructions on how to navigate these. We often carry our past experiences and stress without realizing it— to the point where we feel it not only emotionally, but also in our physical bodies. Research confirms the mind and body aren’t so separate after all, but more of an interdependent unit greatly influencing one another. Past traumas, anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, chronic illness, difficult life transition, caught in the cycles of shame + self criticism; these are all labels and struggles many of us identify with at some point, but they don't define us.
(828) 818-9110 View (828) 818-9110
Photo of David Kaufmann, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Balsam, NC
David Kaufmann
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
Life is challenging, sometimes it can feel like we aren’t made for the pace that is asked of us in today’s world. The result can feel like disconnect, overwhelm, or even depression and anxiety. Therapy can help. It is clear to me in my work, and in my own life, that once we start paying attention to our pain, we can do something about it. Having a guide in that process can make it simpler and more effective. Everyone is unique and as individuals what we need can take time to uncover and incorporate into our daily lives.
Life is challenging, sometimes it can feel like we aren’t made for the pace that is asked of us in today’s world. The result can feel like disconnect, overwhelm, or even depression and anxiety. Therapy can help. It is clear to me in my work, and in my own life, that once we start paying attention to our pain, we can do something about it. Having a guide in that process can make it simpler and more effective. Everyone is unique and as individuals what we need can take time to uncover and incorporate into our daily lives.
(828) 332-5594 View (828) 332-5594
Photo of Madison Brightwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Balsam, NC
Madison Brightwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger.
I am licensed in four states and can offer Telehealth sessions to clients in CA, NC, WA and OR. Let's face it - life can be difficult. If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or you're struggling to just to feel "normal" again, you've made the right choice by seeking therapy. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to face and overcome life's challenges. You don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I know no two individuals are the same, and I'll tailor our sessions to address the challenges unique to you.
I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger.
I am licensed in four states and can offer Telehealth sessions to clients in CA, NC, WA and OR. Let's face it - life can be difficult. If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or you're struggling to just to feel "normal" again, you've made the right choice by seeking therapy. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to face and overcome life's challenges. You don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I know no two individuals are the same, and I'll tailor our sessions to address the challenges unique to you.
(828) 575-5097 View (828) 575-5097
Photo of Kristin Mignogna, Counselor in Balsam, NC
Kristin Mignogna
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I help clients work through problems related to relational issues, life transitions, chronic pain, PTSD/trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, and borderline traits.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counseling Associate who strives to create a space of trust and safety in which clients can heal, progress, and develop self-compassion. I have experience helping clients with a broad range of presenting concerns, with an educational focus on trauma. I cater my therapeutic techniques to each individual client's needs, drawing most heavily from Person-Centered (approaching clients as equal collaborators, with empathy and non-judgement), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (focusing on thought patterns), and Gestalt Therapy (focusing on emotional and somatic experiences).
I help clients work through problems related to relational issues, life transitions, chronic pain, PTSD/trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, and borderline traits.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counseling Associate who strives to create a space of trust and safety in which clients can heal, progress, and develop self-compassion. I have experience helping clients with a broad range of presenting concerns, with an educational focus on trauma. I cater my therapeutic techniques to each individual client's needs, drawing most heavily from Person-Centered (approaching clients as equal collaborators, with empathy and non-judgement), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (focusing on thought patterns), and Gestalt Therapy (focusing on emotional and somatic experiences).
(828) 457-7143 View (828) 457-7143
Photo of Corey Costanzo, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Balsam, NC
Corey Costanzo
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCAS, LMBT, SEP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Lets explore your life experience in a new and exciting way. I see suffering as an opportunity to break free from old patterns, habits, and ways of thinking that are not working for you anymore. It's a call from deep inside saying, "something needs to shift". This shift can come from exploring a relationship to a substance that you are using, and the pain, anxiety, depression, or a general sense of not loving your life that may come with it. Your unique journey is here right now, and experiencing it from a nonjudgmental perspective can be a vital ingredient to moving past whatever is holding you back from living your best life.
Lets explore your life experience in a new and exciting way. I see suffering as an opportunity to break free from old patterns, habits, and ways of thinking that are not working for you anymore. It's a call from deep inside saying, "something needs to shift". This shift can come from exploring a relationship to a substance that you are using, and the pain, anxiety, depression, or a general sense of not loving your life that may come with it. Your unique journey is here right now, and experiencing it from a nonjudgmental perspective can be a vital ingredient to moving past whatever is holding you back from living your best life.
(828) 970-1704 View (828) 970-1704
Photo of James A Barbour, Licensed Professional Counselor in Balsam, NC
James A Barbour
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27833  (Online Only)
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
(252) 585-5186 View (252) 585-5186
Photo of Dr. Andrea Dughoff, Psychologist in Balsam, NC
Dr. Andrea Dughoff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
My calling and expertise is to help women better manage anxiety, worry, and stress in order to cultivate and connect with their inner peace and joy. The pace of life seems to quicken with time, along with the multiple demands to be a good mom, wife, woman, and professional. It can seem impossible to find moments of rest and happiness while balancing “all of the things”. I have found that when women try to "do it all" it can lead to burnout, resentment, depression, and chronic illness. Are your nerves shot? Are you tired but wired? Are you struggling to reign-in unhealthy habits? You've come to the right place!
My calling and expertise is to help women better manage anxiety, worry, and stress in order to cultivate and connect with their inner peace and joy. The pace of life seems to quicken with time, along with the multiple demands to be a good mom, wife, woman, and professional. It can seem impossible to find moments of rest and happiness while balancing “all of the things”. I have found that when women try to "do it all" it can lead to burnout, resentment, depression, and chronic illness. Are your nerves shot? Are you tired but wired? Are you struggling to reign-in unhealthy habits? You've come to the right place!
(828) 415-5304 View (828) 415-5304
Photo of Carol Greenberger, Counselor in Balsam, NC
Carol Greenberger
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
(828) 484-2226 View (828) 484-2226
Photo of John Magee, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Balsam, NC
John Magee
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I believe that most people have the answers within themselves to work through their own problems - my role is to guide you. I have experience helping people who are struggling with anxiety and depression, or who are numbing out through substance use. My clients are often working through life transitions and other challenging situations, such as relationship issues, grief, or chronic pain. Perhaps you have not been handling your emotions very well. You may even feel hopeless, or unsure how to articulate what you are feeling. Therapy is a collaborative journey to a more healthy state of mind.
I believe that most people have the answers within themselves to work through their own problems - my role is to guide you. I have experience helping people who are struggling with anxiety and depression, or who are numbing out through substance use. My clients are often working through life transitions and other challenging situations, such as relationship issues, grief, or chronic pain. Perhaps you have not been handling your emotions very well. You may even feel hopeless, or unsure how to articulate what you are feeling. Therapy is a collaborative journey to a more healthy state of mind.
(828) 547-4272 View (828) 547-4272
Photo of Deborah Whitley Van Wieren, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Balsam, NC
Deborah Whitley Van Wieren
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC , LCAS
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Waitlist for new clients
Life can present challenges, some we live with every day, and others seem to come out of nowhere. Maybe life doesn't follow along a path we've spent years creating and working toward. The business of living can begin to feel like a grind, and simple tasks may create exhaustion, fear, and uncertainty. Unresolved and painful childhood memories seem to revisit out of nowhere, and even though you've worked and wished, or prayed about the pain, the pain lingers. We often resign ourselves to perceiving life as a chore instead of a joyful experience, which can lead to a lack of fulfillment and even chronic illness.
Life can present challenges, some we live with every day, and others seem to come out of nowhere. Maybe life doesn't follow along a path we've spent years creating and working toward. The business of living can begin to feel like a grind, and simple tasks may create exhaustion, fear, and uncertainty. Unresolved and painful childhood memories seem to revisit out of nowhere, and even though you've worked and wished, or prayed about the pain, the pain lingers. We often resign ourselves to perceiving life as a chore instead of a joyful experience, which can lead to a lack of fulfillment and even chronic illness.
(828) 373-1168 View (828) 373-1168
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.