There are no results for therapists in Bostic

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

Online Therapists

Photo of SHINE Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bostic, NC
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
We want to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to living your best life as you want it to be.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
We want to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to living your best life as you want it to be.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
(704) 327-0132 View (704) 327-0132
Photo of Mark Livak, Counselor in Bostic, NC
Mark Livak
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I admire anyone who is willing to heal their from their emotional pain and improve their troubled relationships.
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
I admire anyone who is willing to heal their from their emotional pain and improve their troubled relationships.
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
(704) 268-9898 View (704) 268-9898
Photo of Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Bostic, NC
Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CRC, CCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
We've worked with patients living with chronic pain, chronic diseases (Diabetes, Hypertension, HIV/AIDS, Lupus, Sickle Cell), perinatal mental health concerns, anxiety, depression and those needing career/vocational coaching.
We give so much of ourselves to our jobs, families, friends and more that we often lose ourselves and focus on the daily struggle of just surviving. Becoming overwhelmed or feeling anxious, depressed, scared or even angry, may stop you from reaching your full potential. We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. We have a passion for helping others to find their voice, passion, and to create a healthier reality than their present state. We provide Teletherapy & Coaching services. Therapy services are provided by a Four Therapists & Coaching services by Drs. Watkins, Elbert & Blumell.
We've worked with patients living with chronic pain, chronic diseases (Diabetes, Hypertension, HIV/AIDS, Lupus, Sickle Cell), perinatal mental health concerns, anxiety, depression and those needing career/vocational coaching.
We give so much of ourselves to our jobs, families, friends and more that we often lose ourselves and focus on the daily struggle of just surviving. Becoming overwhelmed or feeling anxious, depressed, scared or even angry, may stop you from reaching your full potential. We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. We have a passion for helping others to find their voice, passion, and to create a healthier reality than their present state. We provide Teletherapy & Coaching services. Therapy services are provided by a Four Therapists & Coaching services by Drs. Watkins, Elbert & Blumell.
(704) 512-0618 View (704) 512-0618
Photo of Amber K Lynn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bostic, NC
Amber K Lynn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
My passion for counseling developed from my own journey with chronic migraines, anxiety, and relationships. I enjoy working with couples and adults on a wide range of issues impacting well-being including, but not limited to, stress, trauma, communication and relationships, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, identity, mild disordered eating, confidence, or just feeling “stuck” and dissatisfied with one’s direction in life.
My passion for counseling developed from my own journey with chronic migraines, anxiety, and relationships. I enjoy working with couples and adults on a wide range of issues impacting well-being including, but not limited to, stress, trauma, communication and relationships, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, identity, mild disordered eating, confidence, or just feeling “stuck” and dissatisfied with one’s direction in life.
(704) 237-6560 x3 View (704) 237-6560 x3
Photo of Michelle McKinzie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bostic, NC
Michelle McKinzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview, NC 28730  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I help clients with histories of trauma in the context of chronic illness.
Have you experienced a life-altering medical condition? Are you experiencing difficulties regulating your mood, including depression and anxiety? Let me help you find ways to manage your emotions and your health more effectively! I would love to help you on a journey to finding more peace and happiness.
I help clients with histories of trauma in the context of chronic illness.
Have you experienced a life-altering medical condition? Are you experiencing difficulties regulating your mood, including depression and anxiety? Let me help you find ways to manage your emotions and your health more effectively! I would love to help you on a journey to finding more peace and happiness.
(828) 475-5258 View (828) 475-5258
Photo of Dr. Andrea Dughoff, Psychologist in Bostic, NC
Dr. Andrea Dughoff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
My calling and expertise is to help women better manage anxiety, worry, and stress in order to cultivate and connect with their inner peace and joy. The pace of life seems to quicken with time, along with the multiple demands to be a good mom, wife, woman, and professional. It can seem impossible to find moments of rest and happiness while balancing “all of the things”. I have found that when women try to "do it all" it can lead to burnout, resentment, depression, and chronic illness. Are your nerves shot? Are you tired but wired? Are you struggling to reign-in unhealthy habits? You've come to the right place!
My calling and expertise is to help women better manage anxiety, worry, and stress in order to cultivate and connect with their inner peace and joy. The pace of life seems to quicken with time, along with the multiple demands to be a good mom, wife, woman, and professional. It can seem impossible to find moments of rest and happiness while balancing “all of the things”. I have found that when women try to "do it all" it can lead to burnout, resentment, depression, and chronic illness. Are your nerves shot? Are you tired but wired? Are you struggling to reign-in unhealthy habits? You've come to the right place!
(828) 415-5304 View (828) 415-5304
Photo of Cindy Austin Lineberger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bostic, NC
Cindy Austin Lineberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMPH, CMIP
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
Over a decade of helping women to break free from overdoing & overcommitting with little return. Whether a fellow helper or chronic illness warrior, let's create a life you genuinely embrace vs tolerate. Imagine balance, confidence, ignited sexual wellness, & body positivity! Having personally lived with chronic illness, I understand its impact on various facets of life, including your job, sex life, self-esteem, and confidence. Fellow helpers can find refuge here, where you can leave your professional hat at the door in exchange for vulnerability. Let's chat!
Over a decade of helping women to break free from overdoing & overcommitting with little return. Whether a fellow helper or chronic illness warrior, let's create a life you genuinely embrace vs tolerate. Imagine balance, confidence, ignited sexual wellness, & body positivity! Having personally lived with chronic illness, I understand its impact on various facets of life, including your job, sex life, self-esteem, and confidence. Fellow helpers can find refuge here, where you can leave your professional hat at the door in exchange for vulnerability. Let's chat!
(828) 408-0507 View (828) 408-0507
Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bostic, NC
Lisa Lavelle Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
(828) 360-8820 View (828) 360-8820
Photo of Jeremy T. Cochran - Cochran Christian Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bostic, NC
Jeremy T. Cochran - Cochran Christian Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Your pain is unique to you, only you can understand it.
For any relationship to work you must be able to communicate. Marriage can be tough. I help people communicate and manage their conflict. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, serving North Carolina since 2003. I provide marriage, premarital, individual counseling for adults. I see people with a variety of therapeutic concerns including, but not limited to, trauma, depression, anxiety, & non-supportive spouse.
Your pain is unique to you, only you can understand it.
For any relationship to work you must be able to communicate. Marriage can be tough. I help people communicate and manage their conflict. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, serving North Carolina since 2003. I provide marriage, premarital, individual counseling for adults. I see people with a variety of therapeutic concerns including, but not limited to, trauma, depression, anxiety, & non-supportive spouse.
(828) 479-0284 View (828) 479-0284
Photo of Robert Limkeman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bostic, NC
Robert Limkeman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Life can be incredibly painful. We can find ourselves feeling stuck, confused, lonely, anxious, despairing, or lost. We want to make sense of our past & present circumstances, map out a path forward, all in a way that feels true to our values and honors the pain we experience. My clients often struggle with issues like depression & anxiety, grief & loss, trauma & abuse, identity & meaning formation, sexuality & pornography, spiritual distress & relationship strife. Whether highly motivated or exhausted and on the verge of giving up, I am honored to meet each client where they are and walk with them step by step toward change.
Life can be incredibly painful. We can find ourselves feeling stuck, confused, lonely, anxious, despairing, or lost. We want to make sense of our past & present circumstances, map out a path forward, all in a way that feels true to our values and honors the pain we experience. My clients often struggle with issues like depression & anxiety, grief & loss, trauma & abuse, identity & meaning formation, sexuality & pornography, spiritual distress & relationship strife. Whether highly motivated or exhausted and on the verge of giving up, I am honored to meet each client where they are and walk with them step by step toward change.
(704) 769-2168 x114 View (704) 769-2168 x114
Photo of Karen R Liddell, Pastoral Counselor in Bostic, 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 Kayla Patterson, Counselor in Bostic, NC
Kayla Patterson
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults experiencing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, chronic pain, relationship troubles, or struggling with spirituality/faith concerns (i.
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults experiencing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, chronic pain, relationship troubles, or struggling with spirituality/faith concerns (i.
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
(704) 389-5748 View (704) 389-5748
Photo of John Joseph McCarthy, Pastoral Counselor in Bostic, NC
John Joseph McCarthy
Pastoral Counselor, MSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing pain, emotional distress or challenges in your life? Do you feel lost, stuck, or hopeless with your situation? Are you willing to take the steps that are within your control to improve it? Do you want to deal with your pain and emotional distress in a healthier way? If so, I am here to assist you in reaching your goals.
Are you experiencing pain, emotional distress or challenges in your life? Do you feel lost, stuck, or hopeless with your situation? Are you willing to take the steps that are within your control to improve it? Do you want to deal with your pain and emotional distress in a healthier way? If so, I am here to assist you in reaching your goals.
(980) 655-3318 View (980) 655-3318
Photo of Clete L deller, Counselor in Bostic, NC
Clete L deller
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lewisville, NC 27023  (Online Only)
We all want more Peace and less Pain in our live. The symptoms of trauma can prevent you from having the life you want, destroy your ability to have intimate and lasting relationships, and ultimately, steal your Peace. Peace or Pain Therapy will not only help you address trauma, but together we will create a concrete plan, for a Meaningful Values-Base Life.
We all want more Peace and less Pain in our live. The symptoms of trauma can prevent you from having the life you want, destroy your ability to have intimate and lasting relationships, and ultimately, steal your Peace. Peace or Pain Therapy will not only help you address trauma, but together we will create a concrete plan, for a Meaningful Values-Base Life.
View
Photo of Complement & Complete Biblical Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bostic, NC
Complement & Complete Biblical Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28208  (Online Only)
Complement & Complete is a virtual, mental health practice designed to help individuals overcome emotional roots that cause emotional, physical and spiritual pain.
Welcome to my practice! I'm Denetra Gary, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland (LCSW-C), Indiana (LCSW), and North Carolina (LCSW). I'm a Christian-based counselor and use the Bible as my foundation. I have ten years of experience in the field of social work and mental health counseling. My therapeutic focus includes working with adults, teens, and children who struggle with anxiety, depression, and chronic disorganization. I'm confident and dedicated to helping you reach your goals.
Complement & Complete is a virtual, mental health practice designed to help individuals overcome emotional roots that cause emotional, physical and spiritual pain.
Welcome to my practice! I'm Denetra Gary, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland (LCSW-C), Indiana (LCSW), and North Carolina (LCSW). I'm a Christian-based counselor and use the Bible as my foundation. I have ten years of experience in the field of social work and mental health counseling. My therapeutic focus includes working with adults, teens, and children who struggle with anxiety, depression, and chronic disorganization. I'm confident and dedicated to helping you reach your goals.
(301) 215-2887 View (301) 215-2887
Photo of Rock of Refuge Counseling Center, Counselor in Bostic, NC
Rock of Refuge Counseling Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
As the instruments of change, it is a privilege and honor to come alongside each person we support, as they navigate the uncertainty and pain that often comes as a result of our individual lived experiences.
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
As the instruments of change, it is a privilege and honor to come alongside each person we support, as they navigate the uncertainty and pain that often comes as a result of our individual lived experiences.
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
(980) 246-4177 View (980) 246-4177
Photo of Lucy Dunning, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bostic, NC
Lucy Dunning
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS, BC-TMC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
Connecting with the right therapist is critical when starting your therapeutic journey. I provide free consultations to potential clients, ensuring they feel confident when committing to their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with patients and families who experience Chronic Illness and Pain. As a chronic illness patient and therapist, I recognize the unique and personal journey clients experience. I understand the obstacles, stigma, and barriers my clients face as they work on building their quality of life.
Connecting with the right therapist is critical when starting your therapeutic journey. I provide free consultations to potential clients, ensuring they feel confident when committing to their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with patients and families who experience Chronic Illness and Pain. As a chronic illness patient and therapist, I recognize the unique and personal journey clients experience. I understand the obstacles, stigma, and barriers my clients face as they work on building their quality of life.
View
Photo of Daniel Pak, Counselor in Bostic, NC
Daniel Pak
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
People commonly say life is a journey full of ups and downs, but sometimes we feel our journey is only going down. We are left feeling lost, trapped, and in pain. Sadly, we do not always have the help or the resources to get through these moments due to various circumstances in our life. Therapy is not a fix-all solution, but it can be the catalyst to taking steps out of what can feel like a bottomless pit and give us the strength to face our problems. I hope that I can be a steadfast presence for support through whatever you are experiencing and help you find your path through your darkest of valleys.
People commonly say life is a journey full of ups and downs, but sometimes we feel our journey is only going down. We are left feeling lost, trapped, and in pain. Sadly, we do not always have the help or the resources to get through these moments due to various circumstances in our life. Therapy is not a fix-all solution, but it can be the catalyst to taking steps out of what can feel like a bottomless pit and give us the strength to face our problems. I hope that I can be a steadfast presence for support through whatever you are experiencing and help you find your path through your darkest of valleys.
(704) 703-5458 View (704) 703-5458
Photo of Tamara Hicks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bostic, NC
Tamara Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212
I have learned that I am not for everyone and everyone is not for me. I am a whole vibe professionally speaking. Therapy is a journey one in which the client is in the drivers seat and the therapist is in the passenger seat, shotgun! The client that wants to get to the root of the pain, hurt, awkwardness, craziness, sadness, the list goes on is a great match with Ms. Tam. The client that also pulls from hope, spirit, experience, the unknown is a match with me. Its helpful for the client to remain open throughout at least 3-6 sessions after the assessment in order to fully rate symptom change.
I have learned that I am not for everyone and everyone is not for me. I am a whole vibe professionally speaking. Therapy is a journey one in which the client is in the drivers seat and the therapist is in the passenger seat, shotgun! The client that wants to get to the root of the pain, hurt, awkwardness, craziness, sadness, the list goes on is a great match with Ms. Tam. The client that also pulls from hope, spirit, experience, the unknown is a match with me. Its helpful for the client to remain open throughout at least 3-6 sessions after the assessment in order to fully rate symptom change.
(704) 313-1034 View (704) 313-1034
Photo of Savana Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Bostic, NC
Savana Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Candler, NC 28715  (Online Only)
I have worked with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and have experience in chronic pain/health psychology.
Accepting NEW clients! I know that finding a therapist can be an overwhelming process. I honor your courage and hope that I can provide a soft place for you to land. I aim to foster a safe, empowering, and collaborative space for my clients. Sometimes we find ourselves losing focus of our life's purpose. Together, we can help identify your values and incorporate them in your life. Through mindfulness practices and acceptance-based strategies, I can help you let go of what is no longer serving you. The ultimate goal for my clients is to decrease any areas of distress while pursuing your values and finding more meaning in your life.
I have worked with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and have experience in chronic pain/health psychology.
Accepting NEW clients! I know that finding a therapist can be an overwhelming process. I honor your courage and hope that I can provide a soft place for you to land. I aim to foster a safe, empowering, and collaborative space for my clients. Sometimes we find ourselves losing focus of our life's purpose. Together, we can help identify your values and incorporate them in your life. Through mindfulness practices and acceptance-based strategies, I can help you let go of what is no longer serving you. The ultimate goal for my clients is to decrease any areas of distress while pursuing your values and finding more meaning in your life.
(828) 539-4408 View (828) 539-4408

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.