Photo of Kambra Meyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Black Mountain, NC
Kambra Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Black Mountain, NC 28711
Even the most self-aware humans can experience periods of confusion, stuckness, and destabilization, and oftentimes suffering has unconscious roots. I've dedicated my training and education as a helping professional to learn how to unlock messages from the unconscious to promote healing and well-being. I also strive to arm my clients with concrete tools to use independently, long after our work together is completed. I have many years of experience helping people heal, blending a variety of nontraditional and expressive therapeutic approaches with evidence-based interventions to meet the individual needs of the people I serve.
Even the most self-aware humans can experience periods of confusion, stuckness, and destabilization, and oftentimes suffering has unconscious roots. I've dedicated my training and education as a helping professional to learn how to unlock messages from the unconscious to promote healing and well-being. I also strive to arm my clients with concrete tools to use independently, long after our work together is completed. I have many years of experience helping people heal, blending a variety of nontraditional and expressive therapeutic approaches with evidence-based interventions to meet the individual needs of the people I serve.
(828) 333-5410 View (828) 333-5410
Photo of Ezra K Post, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Black Mountain, NC
Ezra K Post
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Black Mountain, NC 28711
I am a somatic psychotherapist and clinical supervisor, who enjoys working with people from all human backgrounds. I have been in practice 13 years. I specialize in trauma and attachment resolution, and the various mental/emotional/relational difficulties that can stem from trauma and attachment wounding. I also have a great passion and skill for working out patterns of oppression in the body. Aliveness, strength, respect, laughter, kindness, humility… these are all qualities central to the work I do. Together we will create an alliance to discover the true and beautiful health that exists inside you, and let your truest self shine!
I am a somatic psychotherapist and clinical supervisor, who enjoys working with people from all human backgrounds. I have been in practice 13 years. I specialize in trauma and attachment resolution, and the various mental/emotional/relational difficulties that can stem from trauma and attachment wounding. I also have a great passion and skill for working out patterns of oppression in the body. Aliveness, strength, respect, laughter, kindness, humility… these are all qualities central to the work I do. Together we will create an alliance to discover the true and beautiful health that exists inside you, and let your truest self shine!
(828) 554-7937 View (828) 554-7937

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa Middlebrook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Black Mountain, NC
Melissa Middlebrook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MPH, RYT200
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
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 Taylor Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Black Mountain, NC
Taylor Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Hi there, my name is Taylor. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate. I graduated from East Tennessee State University with a BSW and MSW. Prior my transition to the mental health field in 2020, I gained experience as a social worker in the medical field working with all age groups and populations. In the most recent years, I worked as an Employee Assistance Program Therapist and a Inpatient Psychiatric Social Worker (present).
Hi there, my name is Taylor. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate. I graduated from East Tennessee State University with a BSW and MSW. Prior my transition to the mental health field in 2020, I gained experience as a social worker in the medical field working with all age groups and populations. In the most recent years, I worked as an Employee Assistance Program Therapist and a Inpatient Psychiatric Social Worker (present).
(828) 383-9615 View (828) 383-9615
Photo of Ashley Hosey, Psychological Associate in Black Mountain, NC
Ashley Hosey
Psychological Associate, LPA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805  (Online Only)
Out of network provider for all insurances You're tired. You have to carry BIG emotions all the damn time with no outlet to let them out. You cry when you’re alone, but put on a smile so the world can’t see you're hurting on the inside. There is no time to slow down because slowing down makes the inner critic grow louder about how awful you are. Perhaps you get some release through disordered eating, but ultimately, that voice comes right back again. The inner critic makes it hard for you to accept yourself and love your flaws. It makes it hard for you to live your life intentionally, with confidence in yourself to use your voice.
Out of network provider for all insurances You're tired. You have to carry BIG emotions all the damn time with no outlet to let them out. You cry when you’re alone, but put on a smile so the world can’t see you're hurting on the inside. There is no time to slow down because slowing down makes the inner critic grow louder about how awful you are. Perhaps you get some release through disordered eating, but ultimately, that voice comes right back again. The inner critic makes it hard for you to accept yourself and love your flaws. It makes it hard for you to live your life intentionally, with confidence in yourself to use your voice.
(828) 622-4367 View (828) 622-4367
Photo of Lindsay Okeefe, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Black Mountain, NC
Lindsay Okeefe
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview, NC 28730
I work with adults and couples who have a wide range of goals and challenges. I believe connection to oneself, to others, to community and to spirit are fundamental issues that underlie the particular problems people bring to therapy, as well as the solutions that emerge through therapeutic work.
I work with adults and couples who have a wide range of goals and challenges. I believe connection to oneself, to others, to community and to spirit are fundamental issues that underlie the particular problems people bring to therapy, as well as the solutions that emerge through therapeutic work.
(828) 484-0019 View (828) 484-0019
Photo of Ashley Mattfeld, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Black Mountain, NC
Ashley Mattfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
There are so many different approaches and therapists out there, it can be really overwhelming to find the right fit. It takes a lot of energy and courage to then reach out to a therapist to start this process of recovery. I get it, it's tough, but it's worth it. We all want to get to the other side where we are able to manage the ups and downs the way we envision, but because of negative feelings and events, sometimes we get stuck from making that connection, which is why therapy can be helpful to support moving forward.
There are so many different approaches and therapists out there, it can be really overwhelming to find the right fit. It takes a lot of energy and courage to then reach out to a therapist to start this process of recovery. I get it, it's tough, but it's worth it. We all want to get to the other side where we are able to manage the ups and downs the way we envision, but because of negative feelings and events, sometimes we get stuck from making that connection, which is why therapy can be helpful to support moving forward.
(828) 373-3755 View (828) 373-3755
Photo of Candace Margulies, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Black Mountain, NC
Candace Margulies, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
Not accepting new clients
I believe in the ability of psychotherapy to bring us to greater understanding of ourselves. A skilled therapist can provide the means to respond to the past and enable individuals to identify what they want and what their obstacles are. With a foundation based on a strong therapeutic relationship, a belief in the unconscious and respect for your own pace, I will help you examine who you are, what you want and what stands in the way of reaching your potential for happiness, meaning and satisfaction.
I believe in the ability of psychotherapy to bring us to greater understanding of ourselves. A skilled therapist can provide the means to respond to the past and enable individuals to identify what they want and what their obstacles are. With a foundation based on a strong therapeutic relationship, a belief in the unconscious and respect for your own pace, I will help you examine who you are, what you want and what stands in the way of reaching your potential for happiness, meaning and satisfaction.
(828) 970-1113 View (828) 970-1113
Photo of Katy Flagler, Psychologist in Black Mountain, NC
Katy Flagler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805
Not accepting new clients
I work with individual adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families to unlock potential, improve communication, and enhance a sense of closeness, balance and harmony in their lives. I assist clients in overcoming barriers to joy and fulfillment. When necessary and appropriate, I work closely with other professionals to provide a cohesive treatment approach.
I work with individual adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families to unlock potential, improve communication, and enhance a sense of closeness, balance and harmony in their lives. I assist clients in overcoming barriers to joy and fulfillment. When necessary and appropriate, I work closely with other professionals to provide a cohesive treatment approach.
(828) 398-0089 View (828) 398-0089

Online Therapists

Photo of David Kaufmann, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Black Mountain, 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 Guy Morganstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Black Mountain, 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 Kristin Bure, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Black Mountain, NC
Kristin Bure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
For all of us, there are times when we seek a new direction, a way forward, a fresh possibility for living. Are you feeling stuck or wanting to improve some aspect of your life or yourself? Are you using substances to cope with mental health issues such mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, or chronic pain, stress and life transitions? If you’re here, you know things aren’t okay and life feels unmanageable. Substance use and/or mental health disorders can hijack your life. I can help you get back into the driver’s seat. I can help you feel more empowered to access your innate inner strengths, and reach your fullest recovery potential.
For all of us, there are times when we seek a new direction, a way forward, a fresh possibility for living. Are you feeling stuck or wanting to improve some aspect of your life or yourself? Are you using substances to cope with mental health issues such mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, or chronic pain, stress and life transitions? If you’re here, you know things aren’t okay and life feels unmanageable. Substance use and/or mental health disorders can hijack your life. I can help you get back into the driver’s seat. I can help you feel more empowered to access your innate inner strengths, and reach your fullest recovery potential.
(828) 575-5984 View (828) 575-5984
Photo of The Healing Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Black Mountain, NC
The Healing Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
Pain is motivating, and we offer customized treatment to meet your needs.
Our definition of recovery is working towards our truest and highest self, not just working towards abstinence. We are trauma specialists in active recovery and focus on healing trauma while reinstating a sense of self. We believe that if you do the hard work, and you keep coming back, you will get better. Our therapists are relationship experts in developing the roadmap to other relationships through self.
Pain is motivating, and we offer customized treatment to meet your needs.
Our definition of recovery is working towards our truest and highest self, not just working towards abstinence. We are trauma specialists in active recovery and focus on healing trauma while reinstating a sense of self. We believe that if you do the hard work, and you keep coming back, you will get better. Our therapists are relationship experts in developing the roadmap to other relationships through self.
(704) 275-0441 View (704) 275-0441
Photo of Kristin Mignogna, Counselor in Black Mountain, 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 Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Black Mountain, NC
Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28206  (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 Lucyna Sonek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Black Mountain, NC
Lucyna Sonek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPsych, MA, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
(828) 527-0143 View (828) 527-0143
Photo of Karen R Liddell, Pastoral Counselor in Black Mountain, NC
Karen R Liddell
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LCPC, Rev
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117  (Online Only)
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
(980) 372-8371 View (980) 372-8371
Photo of Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Black Mountain, NC
Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCMHC-S, LCAS, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
(980) 338-4035 View (980) 338-4035
Photo of Diana D. Landers, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Black Mountain, NC
Diana D. Landers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28273
I have a special interest in working with families, with men, and with illness or chronic pain.
A lonely moment. A slight stressor. A tipping point or crisis. A sense of vulnerability or troubling thoughts. Maybe you are in physical pain. Something has called you to therapy, and you are seeking a guide to walk alongside you. My goal is to provide you both a place of comfort and autonomy, yet ensure we have the flexibility and willingness to go where we must. I am a therapist. I am also a parent, a spouse, a daughter, and a sibling. I believe that family bonds, or lack thereof, shape who we become and I cannot guide you where I haven’t also been myself.
I have a special interest in working with families, with men, and with illness or chronic pain.
A lonely moment. A slight stressor. A tipping point or crisis. A sense of vulnerability or troubling thoughts. Maybe you are in physical pain. Something has called you to therapy, and you are seeking a guide to walk alongside you. My goal is to provide you both a place of comfort and autonomy, yet ensure we have the flexibility and willingness to go where we must. I am a therapist. I am also a parent, a spouse, a daughter, and a sibling. I believe that family bonds, or lack thereof, shape who we become and I cannot guide you where I haven’t also been myself.
(704) 850-5876 View (704) 850-5876
Photo of Deborah Whitley Van Wieren, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Black Mountain, 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

See more therapy options for Black Mountain

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.