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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tiffany Rogers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Benson, NC
Tiffany Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCASA, NCC, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Coats, NC 27521
However, what I can do is stand with you in your pain while we get through it together! I can guarantee you that I will provide you with professional counseling without judgment but with empathy and compassion .
Ever felt alone, rejected or misunderstood? Or simply just felt overwhelmed with many obstacles coming at once? If you have, you are not the only one, nor are you in this by yourself. In fact, I believe that it is my duty and my obligation to give you support and help you realize that there is a way to get your life back, to become a better you! Regardless if it is addiction, depression, anxiety or just overall life- you can overcome whatever you are facing with the right tools , skills and support.
However, what I can do is stand with you in your pain while we get through it together! I can guarantee you that I will provide you with professional counseling without judgment but with empathy and compassion .
Ever felt alone, rejected or misunderstood? Or simply just felt overwhelmed with many obstacles coming at once? If you have, you are not the only one, nor are you in this by yourself. In fact, I believe that it is my duty and my obligation to give you support and help you realize that there is a way to get your life back, to become a better you! Regardless if it is addiction, depression, anxiety or just overall life- you can overcome whatever you are facing with the right tools , skills and support.
(984) 207-3267 View (984) 207-3267
Photo of Dana Washington, Pre-Licensed Professional in Benson, NC
Dana Washington
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dunn, NC 28334
Current openings! Now accepting clients in Fayetteville and Lillington, with telehealth options available statewide in NC. I specialize in collaboratively creating and implementing action steps aligned with your personal goals, values and your desire for change. My practice embraces a diverse client population, offering compassionate guidance for various mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, autism, ADHD, binge eating, and stress-induced conditions. Together, we can navigate challenges and work towards holistic well-being.
Current openings! Now accepting clients in Fayetteville and Lillington, with telehealth options available statewide in NC. I specialize in collaboratively creating and implementing action steps aligned with your personal goals, values and your desire for change. My practice embraces a diverse client population, offering compassionate guidance for various mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, autism, ADHD, binge eating, and stress-induced conditions. Together, we can navigate challenges and work towards holistic well-being.
(919) 246-8850 View (919) 246-8850
Photo of New Direction YFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benson, NC
New Direction YFS
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunn, NC 28334  (Online Only)
Hello and thank you for visiting our page. New Direction YFS is a specialty practice dedicated to serving children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Our focus is to deliver high-quality therapy treatment, testing, and consultations from our team. Ahora aceptamos nuevos clientes! Llame hoy para programar su cita.
Hello and thank you for visiting our page. New Direction YFS is a specialty practice dedicated to serving children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Our focus is to deliver high-quality therapy treatment, testing, and consultations from our team. Ahora aceptamos nuevos clientes! Llame hoy para programar su cita.
(910) 778-1842 View (910) 778-1842

Online Therapists

Photo of Alysann Whitley Price, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benson, NC
Alysann Whitley Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
(919) 925-4566 View (919) 925-4566
Photo of Clarity Psychological Wellness, Psychologist in Benson, NC
Clarity Psychological Wellness
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Accepting New Clients! Struggling to find meaningful connection in your life? Sometimes the harder we work to come up for air, the more we feel like we are drowning. We have specialized training in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, insomnia, disordered eating, chronic illness, and depression. Our focus is not just on short term symptom relief, but long term understanding of the dynamics that keep us stuck. We'll take the time to truly understand your history, triggers, and all contributing factors in order to build an individualized plan for treatment.
Accepting New Clients! Struggling to find meaningful connection in your life? Sometimes the harder we work to come up for air, the more we feel like we are drowning. We have specialized training in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, insomnia, disordered eating, chronic illness, and depression. Our focus is not just on short term symptom relief, but long term understanding of the dynamics that keep us stuck. We'll take the time to truly understand your history, triggers, and all contributing factors in order to build an individualized plan for treatment.
(984) 459-7666 x1 View (984) 459-7666 x1
Photo of Leigh Zick Dongre, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Benson, NC
Leigh Zick Dongre
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
(336) 791-0314 View (336) 791-0314
Photo of Triangle Wellness and Recovery PLLC in Benson, NC
Triangle Wellness and Recovery PLLC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
Our team takes an integrative, cross-disciplinary approach to whole-person wellness and recovery. The clients we work with struggle with a broad range of physical and mental health symptoms and conditions including anxiety and mood disorders, depression and bipolar depression, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, chronic pain, substance or alcohol abuse, compulsive behaviors, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. We tailor your treatment plan to start where you are right now and help you build a meaningful, satisfying life that is unique to your personal goals and desires.
Our team takes an integrative, cross-disciplinary approach to whole-person wellness and recovery. The clients we work with struggle with a broad range of physical and mental health symptoms and conditions including anxiety and mood disorders, depression and bipolar depression, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, chronic pain, substance or alcohol abuse, compulsive behaviors, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. We tailor your treatment plan to start where you are right now and help you build a meaningful, satisfying life that is unique to your personal goals and desires.
(984) 205-8011 View (984) 205-8011
Photo of Resilient Counseling, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Benson, NC
Resilient Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518
Additionally, Angela works individually with adults experiencing divorce/relationship problems, depression, anxiety/stress, addictions, stress related medical conditions, and chronic pain.
Angela S. McLean, LMFT works with individual clients as well as couples and whole families and specializes in helping people find peace in the midst of constant change and daily chaos. Individual sessions are designed to help clients develop the ability to maintain an inner tranquility that is not easily affected by outside circumstances or pressures. Couples and families work to build a strong foundation and lasting, satisfying relationships. If you are looking for peace within yourself, your marriage, or your home, contact Angela today.
Additionally, Angela works individually with adults experiencing divorce/relationship problems, depression, anxiety/stress, addictions, stress related medical conditions, and chronic pain.
Angela S. McLean, LMFT works with individual clients as well as couples and whole families and specializes in helping people find peace in the midst of constant change and daily chaos. Individual sessions are designed to help clients develop the ability to maintain an inner tranquility that is not easily affected by outside circumstances or pressures. Couples and families work to build a strong foundation and lasting, satisfying relationships. If you are looking for peace within yourself, your marriage, or your home, contact Angela today.
(919) 234-5149 View (919) 234-5149
Photo of Michelle Mobley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benson, NC
Michelle Mobley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, RYT200, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Accepting new clients interested in EMDR. Do you feel like a part of you is stuck in the past or perhaps a part of you is always thinking about the future? Maybe you feel the tension in your body and hear the endless chatter of your thoughts? Intellectually you know you are good enough and lovable but there's a feeling that lingers. You might be considering that your physical pain could have roots in your thoughts/feelings. Perhaps you've experienced something really difficult and challenging. Maybe trauma(s)? Clients that work with me are aware of the mind-body connection & are looking for an integrative approach to therapy.
Accepting new clients interested in EMDR. Do you feel like a part of you is stuck in the past or perhaps a part of you is always thinking about the future? Maybe you feel the tension in your body and hear the endless chatter of your thoughts? Intellectually you know you are good enough and lovable but there's a feeling that lingers. You might be considering that your physical pain could have roots in your thoughts/feelings. Perhaps you've experienced something really difficult and challenging. Maybe trauma(s)? Clients that work with me are aware of the mind-body connection & are looking for an integrative approach to therapy.
(919) 739-3323 View (919) 739-3323
Photo of Janet Heuring Larsen, Psychologist in Benson, 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 Mandy Tewell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Benson, NC
Mandy Tewell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705
Waitlist for new clients
Things are hard right now. You're here because you want things to be different and don't quite know how to make that happen. I want to help you feel hopeful, powerful, and in control of your life. I want to help you heal. Whether you're feeling pain from trauma/abuse, engaging in behaviors that are no longer working for your life (self-harming, risky behaviors, disordered eating), or struggling with relationships, I can help. I have a person-centered approach so I can meet you at your current point in life and support you in reaching your goals.
Things are hard right now. You're here because you want things to be different and don't quite know how to make that happen. I want to help you feel hopeful, powerful, and in control of your life. I want to help you heal. Whether you're feeling pain from trauma/abuse, engaging in behaviors that are no longer working for your life (self-harming, risky behaviors, disordered eating), or struggling with relationships, I can help. I have a person-centered approach so I can meet you at your current point in life and support you in reaching your goals.
(919) 237-9699 View (919) 237-9699
Photo of Sarah Harrocks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benson, NC
Sarah Harrocks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMBT
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
We are all journeying through life. At times the path you are traveling becomes unclear and may require action to move the debris blocking your way. Debris may show up as depression, anxiety, self-doubt, or even fear. There may also have been something along your journey which caused you great pain that could be hindering your ability to move forward in life. Counseling can support you with clearing the way so that you may see yourself and your path more clearly, allowing you to live the life you most desire.
We are all journeying through life. At times the path you are traveling becomes unclear and may require action to move the debris blocking your way. Debris may show up as depression, anxiety, self-doubt, or even fear. There may also have been something along your journey which caused you great pain that could be hindering your ability to move forward in life. Counseling can support you with clearing the way so that you may see yourself and your path more clearly, allowing you to live the life you most desire.
(919) 858-6073 View (919) 858-6073
Photo of Eastern Trauma & Recovery, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Benson, NC
Eastern Trauma & Recovery
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS-A, Trauma, CCTS-S, CFTP, Crisis
Verified Verified
Spring Hope, NC 27882
Needed: 1099 counselor. Contact if interested. Please leave me a message so that I can return your call ASAP. Thank you. No one as a child stated, "I want to abuse drugs" or "I want to experience trauma" (ie car wreck, rape). Life happens and sometimes it becomes out of control. Understanding trauma and/or addiction, or even them together, can help an individual to feel as though they are being heard. It is my honor to help you walk through your pain and begin to live life once more without the heaviness of the past.
Needed: 1099 counselor. Contact if interested. Please leave me a message so that I can return your call ASAP. Thank you. No one as a child stated, "I want to abuse drugs" or "I want to experience trauma" (ie car wreck, rape). Life happens and sometimes it becomes out of control. Understanding trauma and/or addiction, or even them together, can help an individual to feel as though they are being heard. It is my honor to help you walk through your pain and begin to live life once more without the heaviness of the past.
(252) 477-7662 View (252) 477-7662
Photo of Char Boyette, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Benson, 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 Anita Bhat, Counselor in Benson, NC
Anita Bhat
Counselor, PsyD, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
If you are in need of trauma healing from the past and present, I am the therapist for you! "Pain is inevitable but suffering is optional." Pain is a part of life but it does not have to rule your life. Suffering is not a part of life. We do it to ourselves by allowing our pain to take over our lives. You don't have to sit alone with your pain and suffer. I am a deeply empathetic and effective therapist. Trauma should not be a life sentence for anyone. I am trained in the best techniques using hypnotherapy and mind-body healing to resolve PTSD, trauma and other conditions powerfully, rapidly and effectively using the subconscious
If you are in need of trauma healing from the past and present, I am the therapist for you! "Pain is inevitable but suffering is optional." Pain is a part of life but it does not have to rule your life. Suffering is not a part of life. We do it to ourselves by allowing our pain to take over our lives. You don't have to sit alone with your pain and suffer. I am a deeply empathetic and effective therapist. Trauma should not be a life sentence for anyone. I am trained in the best techniques using hypnotherapy and mind-body healing to resolve PTSD, trauma and other conditions powerfully, rapidly and effectively using the subconscious
(984) 205-6585 View (984) 205-6585
Photo of Kathy Elias, MA, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Benson, NC
Kathy Elias, MA
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, sadness, grief or loss, fear, shame or guilt? Do you feel withdrawn or go against your own values to please others, or even lash out sometimes because you don’t know what to do with how you feel? Holding feelings inside can lead to many problems including depression, anxiety, physical illness or ailments, and disconnection from friends and family. Are you your own worst critic and condemn yourself? Do you feel stuck, or lost in life and sometimes wonder who you are? You want to feel better but don't know how to get there.
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, sadness, grief or loss, fear, shame or guilt? Do you feel withdrawn or go against your own values to please others, or even lash out sometimes because you don’t know what to do with how you feel? Holding feelings inside can lead to many problems including depression, anxiety, physical illness or ailments, and disconnection from friends and family. Are you your own worst critic and condemn yourself? Do you feel stuck, or lost in life and sometimes wonder who you are? You want to feel better but don't know how to get there.
(919) 443-5817 View (919) 443-5817
Photo of Patricia S. Duggan, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Benson, NC
Patricia S. Duggan
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27608  (Online Only)
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain & society makes it hard to heal. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain & society makes it hard to heal. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
(910) 400-1524 View (910) 400-1524
Photo of Becca Leifer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Benson, NC
Becca Leifer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
I support folx struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, navigating neurodiversities, unpack systemic adversities, and sense of self.
To me, therapy isn’t a workbook or a road map that’s the same for everyone. Therapy is about meeting you where you are. I want to learn about your unique strengths, values, goals, and struggles. I strive to support you in navigating your struggles, and in making choices in alignment with your values as you work toward your goals. I am curious about what brings you fulfillment and exploring avenues to infuse joy into your days, with a strength-based, benefit-enhancement approach. I view therapy as a collaborative process, know that you are the expert on your own experience, and meet each client as the individual you are.
I support folx struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, navigating neurodiversities, unpack systemic adversities, and sense of self.
To me, therapy isn’t a workbook or a road map that’s the same for everyone. Therapy is about meeting you where you are. I want to learn about your unique strengths, values, goals, and struggles. I strive to support you in navigating your struggles, and in making choices in alignment with your values as you work toward your goals. I am curious about what brings you fulfillment and exploring avenues to infuse joy into your days, with a strength-based, benefit-enhancement approach. I view therapy as a collaborative process, know that you are the expert on your own experience, and meet each client as the individual you are.
(919) 823-7599 View (919) 823-7599
Photo of Jennifer McLucas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benson, NC
Jennifer McLucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MHA, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
I am prepared to work with individuals that struggle with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, addictions, chronic illness and life transition issues.
We all face times in our lives when the challenges we face may generate a sense of being overwhelmed and feeling uncertain. Such feelings can often be our signal to seek change. Therapy can be a powerful tool in obtaining healthy change, growth and empowerment during the challenging times in our lives. Working cooperatively with a trained therapist often provides individuals the time and space needed to examine these challenges and address how thoughts, feelings and behavior influence the ability to live intentionally.
I am prepared to work with individuals that struggle with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, addictions, chronic illness and life transition issues.
We all face times in our lives when the challenges we face may generate a sense of being overwhelmed and feeling uncertain. Such feelings can often be our signal to seek change. Therapy can be a powerful tool in obtaining healthy change, growth and empowerment during the challenging times in our lives. Working cooperatively with a trained therapist often provides individuals the time and space needed to examine these challenges and address how thoughts, feelings and behavior influence the ability to live intentionally.
(919) 330-0179 View (919) 330-0179
Photo of Ann Marie Simmonds, Psychological Associate in Benson, NC
Ann Marie Simmonds
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Ann Simmonds, MA, LPA, LCAS, CCS: I am dedicated to helping individuals work through personal and relational issues so that they may cope effectively and realize a more fulfilling life. I specialize in helping individuals work through depression, anxiety, trauma and grief, relational issues, and chronic pain in order to realize their full potential. I hold a master’s degree in Psychology and Substance Use Treatment from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
Ann Simmonds, MA, LPA, LCAS, CCS: I am dedicated to helping individuals work through personal and relational issues so that they may cope effectively and realize a more fulfilling life. I specialize in helping individuals work through depression, anxiety, trauma and grief, relational issues, and chronic pain in order to realize their full potential. I hold a master’s degree in Psychology and Substance Use Treatment from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
(910) 550-2992 View (910) 550-2992

See more therapy options for Benson

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.