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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Char Boyette, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Bellarthur, NC
Char Boyette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, EMDRIA, CCS, MDiv, JD
Verified Verified
Winterville, NC 28590
I am a person on the journey of wellness myself so I can empathize with the pain of feeling isolated and misunderstood, stuck in old patterns and unable to break unhelpful cycles of abuse, trauma, poverty, addictions, and multiple mental health challenges.
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
I am a person on the journey of wellness myself so I can empathize with the pain of feeling isolated and misunderstood, stuck in old patterns and unable to break unhelpful cycles of abuse, trauma, poverty, addictions, and multiple mental health challenges.
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
(910) 634-6171 View (910) 634-6171
Photo of Deborah B. Burnette, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellarthur, NC
Deborah B. Burnette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, LPC, LCAS, NCAC II, MAC
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27833
Frequently we hear how many people in today’s society find themselves feeling anxious, depressed, stressed and overwhelmed by life circumstances and/or addiction disorders. My counseling practice provides you a confidential, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to talk about your concerns, problems, and emotional pain. I listen with compassion and together we develop a plan to help you gain insight into your issues and to learn effective coping skills. I believe in and am focused on the hope for change and improved quality of life.
Frequently we hear how many people in today’s society find themselves feeling anxious, depressed, stressed and overwhelmed by life circumstances and/or addiction disorders. My counseling practice provides you a confidential, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to talk about your concerns, problems, and emotional pain. I listen with compassion and together we develop a plan to help you gain insight into your issues and to learn effective coping skills. I believe in and am focused on the hope for change and improved quality of life.
(252) 368-4577 View (252) 368-4577
Photo of Kasey Saunders, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellarthur, NC
Kasey Saunders
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858  (Online Only)
I am so glad you found your way here! It takes courage and strength to invest in yourself. You are in a great place to begin this journey. We all go through ups and downs throughout life. There are times we all need a little support to get through the tougher times. Having someone who is compassionate, non-judgmental, and unbiased to talk to can be the key to unlocking what is already inside you, waiting to be discovered. Finding someone you feel comfortable with is one of the most important parts of this journey. I would love to talk with you and discuss how I can support you.
I am so glad you found your way here! It takes courage and strength to invest in yourself. You are in a great place to begin this journey. We all go through ups and downs throughout life. There are times we all need a little support to get through the tougher times. Having someone who is compassionate, non-judgmental, and unbiased to talk to can be the key to unlocking what is already inside you, waiting to be discovered. Finding someone you feel comfortable with is one of the most important parts of this journey. I would love to talk with you and discuss how I can support you.
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Photo of Keri Renee Willis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellarthur, NC
Keri Renee Willis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27834  (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 Dory R. Simonsen, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellarthur, NC
Dory R. Simonsen, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Hi, and welcome. The relationship that I build with my clients is the foundation to gaining tools for greater health, wellness, and behavioral outcomes. I use the Polyvagal Theory to help promote understanding of our connectivity to our bodies, environment, and connection with others. I am EMDR-trained, have specialized training in postpartum and perinatal care, and enjoy working with clients of all facets of life.
Hi, and welcome. The relationship that I build with my clients is the foundation to gaining tools for greater health, wellness, and behavioral outcomes. I use the Polyvagal Theory to help promote understanding of our connectivity to our bodies, environment, and connection with others. I am EMDR-trained, have specialized training in postpartum and perinatal care, and enjoy working with clients of all facets of life.
(984) 249-3628 View (984) 249-3628
Photo of Kelly Dispirito Taylor, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellarthur, NC
Kelly Dispirito Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858
I love working with my clients! Many come to me depressed, anxious, struggling personally and in their relationships. I try to provide them with hope, perspective, and together we come up with a new plan moving forward. Often, I find clients want to let go of old habits or ways of interacting with loved ones to find more healthy ways to live. We focus on setting healthy boundaries, advocating for oneself, setting goals that will lead to greater happiness, and finding hope in the future. With no exception, I find clients have that inner strength to change within them. Sometimes, they just need a little help along the way!
I love working with my clients! Many come to me depressed, anxious, struggling personally and in their relationships. I try to provide them with hope, perspective, and together we come up with a new plan moving forward. Often, I find clients want to let go of old habits or ways of interacting with loved ones to find more healthy ways to live. We focus on setting healthy boundaries, advocating for oneself, setting goals that will lead to greater happiness, and finding hope in the future. With no exception, I find clients have that inner strength to change within them. Sometimes, they just need a little help along the way!
(252) 336-9665 View (252) 336-9665

Online Therapists

Photo of Sonia Hsieh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellarthur, NC
Sonia Hsieh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with those struggling with depression and anxiety, those working through childhood trauma, relationship issues, and physical and chronic pain.
Perhaps you feel lost, confused or down - unsure of how you ended up here and why you are feeling the way you do. You are beginning to question certain stories or beliefs you held about yourself and the world around you. Maybe you are seeking truth or some clarity on the unfolding of your life. You are certainly looking for healing and happiness. If any of these statements resonate with you, I hope we can connect to see how I may be of assistance. The labyrinth of our minds is a tricky road to travel alone. Life is better with a little help along the way.
I enjoy working with those struggling with depression and anxiety, those working through childhood trauma, relationship issues, and physical and chronic pain.
Perhaps you feel lost, confused or down - unsure of how you ended up here and why you are feeling the way you do. You are beginning to question certain stories or beliefs you held about yourself and the world around you. Maybe you are seeking truth or some clarity on the unfolding of your life. You are certainly looking for healing and happiness. If any of these statements resonate with you, I hope we can connect to see how I may be of assistance. The labyrinth of our minds is a tricky road to travel alone. Life is better with a little help along the way.
(984) 309-4525 View (984) 309-4525
Photo of Rob Moser, Counselor in Bellarthur, 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 Kate Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellarthur, NC
Kate Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I’m passionate about working with adults of all ages who are chronically ill, and adults in their 20s & 30s having difficulty navigating the many challenges of adulthood. People of all ages with chronic illness find themselves desperately searching for a way to be comfortable in their bodies & minds–to live a life they actually want, despite all they're coping with. And many adults in their 20s & 30s reach a point where they ask themselves, "Is adulthood (or relationships, or work) this hard for everyone, or is something wrong with me?" They thought they'd have it all figured out by now, but just aren't happy with where they're at.
I’m passionate about working with adults of all ages who are chronically ill, and adults in their 20s & 30s having difficulty navigating the many challenges of adulthood. People of all ages with chronic illness find themselves desperately searching for a way to be comfortable in their bodies & minds–to live a life they actually want, despite all they're coping with. And many adults in their 20s & 30s reach a point where they ask themselves, "Is adulthood (or relationships, or work) this hard for everyone, or is something wrong with me?" They thought they'd have it all figured out by now, but just aren't happy with where they're at.
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Photo of Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Bellarthur, NC
Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703  (Online Only)
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
(919) 823-6654 View (919) 823-6654
Photo of Michael Gisser, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellarthur, NC
Michael Gisser
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
I feel that my experience allows me to connect and empathize with individuals and couples who might be dealing with the stress of marriage, military life and chronic illness, including depression and anxiety.
I am a former US Army chaplain and ordained rabbi trained in Marriage and Family Therapy with additional training in trauma recovery, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSD). My experience embodies an experiential integrative approach and I can individualize therapy to meet client goals. I work with individuals, couples, military personnel, veterans, and their families, and the LGBTQIA community. I am knowledgeable of world religions and diverse cultural backgrounds. I am currently accepting new clients in Pittsboro. To schedule an appointment vist our website - migcounseling.com
I feel that my experience allows me to connect and empathize with individuals and couples who might be dealing with the stress of marriage, military life and chronic illness, including depression and anxiety.
I am a former US Army chaplain and ordained rabbi trained in Marriage and Family Therapy with additional training in trauma recovery, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSD). My experience embodies an experiential integrative approach and I can individualize therapy to meet client goals. I work with individuals, couples, military personnel, veterans, and their families, and the LGBTQIA community. I am knowledgeable of world religions and diverse cultural backgrounds. I am currently accepting new clients in Pittsboro. To schedule an appointment vist our website - migcounseling.com
(984) 237-3579 View (984) 237-3579
Photo of New Way Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellarthur, NC
New Way Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knightdale, NC 27545
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Often times life can be challenging and many of us are not prepared to deal with those issues and find ourselves in an unfamiliar place. As a therapist, I am dedicated to providing individualized care to meet your needs. I've worked with children and adults in the mental health field for over 16 years and individuals with addiction for over 8 years. I've treated individuals with various mental health and substance use disorders. My experience enables me to offer effective, individualized outpatient psychological care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges and addiction.
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Often times life can be challenging and many of us are not prepared to deal with those issues and find ourselves in an unfamiliar place. As a therapist, I am dedicated to providing individualized care to meet your needs. I've worked with children and adults in the mental health field for over 16 years and individuals with addiction for over 8 years. I've treated individuals with various mental health and substance use disorders. My experience enables me to offer effective, individualized outpatient psychological care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges and addiction.
(919) 289-8267 View (919) 289-8267
Photo of Beatrice Andres, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellarthur, NC
Beatrice Andres
Licensed Professional Counselor, SEP, LCMHC, NCC, Somatic
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516  (Online Only)
I specialize and am passionate about working with clients who struggle with developmental trauma, medical trauma, attachment and relationship wounds, PTSD, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, chronic pain, disordered eating, addictive behaviors, and feelings of not belonging.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and a Transforming Touch® Therapist.
I specialize and am passionate about working with clients who struggle with developmental trauma, medical trauma, attachment and relationship wounds, PTSD, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, chronic pain, disordered eating, addictive behaviors, and feelings of not belonging.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and a Transforming Touch® Therapist.
(984) 205-7210 View (984) 205-7210
Photo of Karen O Harmon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellarthur, NC
Karen O Harmon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I work with individual, couples or families to get to the root of their pain.
Has your body taken over your mind? Are panic attacks or weird physical symptoms hijacking your sense of safety? You are taking the first important step! Symptoms are trying to tell you something. Do you feel as though you could use some help being able to express yourself or make yourself understood? Would you like to feel as though you have some control over the way your body reacts to situations that seem out of your control? I can help you find the answers to these questions because I believe you deserve to live a beautiful life and develop greater resilience when life seems too hard. I see you. Maybe I can help you process it?
I work with individual, couples or families to get to the root of their pain.
Has your body taken over your mind? Are panic attacks or weird physical symptoms hijacking your sense of safety? You are taking the first important step! Symptoms are trying to tell you something. Do you feel as though you could use some help being able to express yourself or make yourself understood? Would you like to feel as though you have some control over the way your body reacts to situations that seem out of your control? I can help you find the answers to these questions because I believe you deserve to live a beautiful life and develop greater resilience when life seems too hard. I see you. Maybe I can help you process it?
(919) 858-2528 View (919) 858-2528
Photo of Janet Heuring Larsen, Psychologist in Bellarthur, NC
Janet Heuring Larsen
Psychologist, MA, LCAS, LPA, HSP-PA, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
PRACTICE MAY HAVE A WAITLIST, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR INQUIRIES: My psychology practice is committed to delivering highly effective treatment and outstanding client care. I've helped individuals navigate challenges and improve their lives for over 10 years. I treat clients with an array of issues including relationship struggles, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, anger, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, substance use/addiction and grief. I serve many clients with co-occurring disorders and have trained other therapists. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and trauma using EMDR and also offer ADHD/ADD counseling.
PRACTICE MAY HAVE A WAITLIST, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR INQUIRIES: My psychology practice is committed to delivering highly effective treatment and outstanding client care. I've helped individuals navigate challenges and improve their lives for over 10 years. I treat clients with an array of issues including relationship struggles, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, anger, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, substance use/addiction and grief. I serve many clients with co-occurring disorders and have trained other therapists. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and trauma using EMDR and also offer ADHD/ADD counseling.
(919) 948-3053 View (919) 948-3053
Photo of Shivani L. Chudasama, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellarthur, NC
Shivani L. Chudasama
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, RYT-500
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27704  (Online Only)
I currently have a waitlist. I am a clinical social worker and registered yoga teacher who empowers people using the guiding principles of empathy, curiosity, cultural humility, and collaboration. I take an integrative, somatic, and highly relational approach and work to understand how the intersection of your unique experiences impact today. I remain committed to working with people as they face a range of experiences, including multicultural concerns, oppression, identity exploration, trauma, anxiety, depression, queer/LGB+ concerns, trans and gender identity related concerns, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and grief.
I currently have a waitlist. I am a clinical social worker and registered yoga teacher who empowers people using the guiding principles of empathy, curiosity, cultural humility, and collaboration. I take an integrative, somatic, and highly relational approach and work to understand how the intersection of your unique experiences impact today. I remain committed to working with people as they face a range of experiences, including multicultural concerns, oppression, identity exploration, trauma, anxiety, depression, queer/LGB+ concerns, trans and gender identity related concerns, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and grief.
(919) 759-5711 View (919) 759-5711
Photo of Betsy Newsome Moody, Pre-Licensed Professional in Bellarthur, NC
Betsy Newsome Moody
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
My areas of expertise include grief, loss, health-related concerns, chronic illness, stress management, anxiety, caregiver burnout, and trauma.
Do you have something you need to talk about? Trudging through life with stress, grief, anxiety, or other burdens can feel lonely and exhausting. Address your mental health needs through conversation and engage in therapeutic interventions to bring positive change in your life. Exploring how your mental health has negative impacts on your body and your daily life will improve your well-being.
My areas of expertise include grief, loss, health-related concerns, chronic illness, stress management, anxiety, caregiver burnout, and trauma.
Do you have something you need to talk about? Trudging through life with stress, grief, anxiety, or other burdens can feel lonely and exhausting. Address your mental health needs through conversation and engage in therapeutic interventions to bring positive change in your life. Exploring how your mental health has negative impacts on your body and your daily life will improve your well-being.
(919) 372-0687 View (919) 372-0687
Photo of Meg Barry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellarthur, NC
Meg Barry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27712
Waitlist for new clients
8-9 Month Waitlist-You matter and you are enough! I am a trauma therapist whose approach is integrative and honors each client’s unique emotional system. I believe that creating safety in client-counselor relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. I greet each client with warmth, understanding, and non-judgement, drawing on each client’s strength and inner wisdom to bring about change in their lives. I am passionate about working with adults with a history of trauma, attachment trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and auto-immune/chronic pain.
8-9 Month Waitlist-You matter and you are enough! I am a trauma therapist whose approach is integrative and honors each client’s unique emotional system. I believe that creating safety in client-counselor relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. I greet each client with warmth, understanding, and non-judgement, drawing on each client’s strength and inner wisdom to bring about change in their lives. I am passionate about working with adults with a history of trauma, attachment trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and auto-immune/chronic pain.
(919) 726-0565 View (919) 726-0565
Photo of Catherine C Butler in Bellarthur, NC
Catherine C Butler
MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, illness, relationship struggles, trauma or interested in self exploration, therapy can be an effective step towards finding healing and growth. I offer a safe, supportive and respectful environment. My goal is to help you overcome obstacles and self-destructive patterns so that you can live a more authentic and joyful life. I come from a humanistic approach, combining traditional psychology with mindfulness-based practices. I bring compassion, curiosity and humor to my therapy practice. Together we will uncover the answers within yourself to help you find relief from emotional pain.
Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, illness, relationship struggles, trauma or interested in self exploration, therapy can be an effective step towards finding healing and growth. I offer a safe, supportive and respectful environment. My goal is to help you overcome obstacles and self-destructive patterns so that you can live a more authentic and joyful life. I come from a humanistic approach, combining traditional psychology with mindfulness-based practices. I bring compassion, curiosity and humor to my therapy practice. Together we will uncover the answers within yourself to help you find relief from emotional pain.
(910) 338-3703 View (910) 338-3703
Photo of Patricia A Toth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellarthur, NC
Patricia A Toth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28560  (Online Only)
Rather than identifying and categorizing the presence or absence of symptoms of illness, my practice seeks to uncover the psychological health in my clients.
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
Rather than identifying and categorizing the presence or absence of symptoms of illness, my practice seeks to uncover the psychological health in my clients.
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
(252) 392-4371 View (252) 392-4371
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.