Photo of Gene Haas, Psychological Associate in Cabarrus County, NC
Gene Haas
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
Clients with chronic illness, or pain, or PTSD work well with my approach to therapy including the use of EMDR.
I work best with an individual client, couple, or the family of a child or adolescent that recognizes that what they have been trying to do to deal with their life or behavioral issues is not working well, and they are now open to finding understanding, and trying new approaches to old, or recently acute problems. My experience has been that most couples really want to save their marriage or other family relationships and will do the work necessary to build a new and loving relationship.
Clients with chronic illness, or pain, or PTSD work well with my approach to therapy including the use of EMDR.
I work best with an individual client, couple, or the family of a child or adolescent that recognizes that what they have been trying to do to deal with their life or behavioral issues is not working well, and they are now open to finding understanding, and trying new approaches to old, or recently acute problems. My experience has been that most couples really want to save their marriage or other family relationships and will do the work necessary to build a new and loving relationship.
(704) 326-1197 View (704) 326-1197
Photo of The International Center for Wellness PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cabarrus County, NC
The International Center for Wellness PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
(704) 327-5647 x101 View (704) 327-5647 x101
Photo of Tova Woullard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cabarrus County, NC
Tova Woullard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS-A, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kannapolis, NC 28083  (Online Only)
Children: 6 to 17. I serve those with ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, body dysmorphia, identity disorders, schizophrenia, addictions, truancy issues, low-self-esteem issues, oppositional defiant disorders, & OCD, and mood disorders. Adults (18+): I work with those who have anxiety, depression, low-self-esteem, addictions, ADHD, personality disorders, identity issues, adjusting to new conditions, PTSD, body dysmorphia, separation (a break-up, divorce, separation issues, new parents, teachers, retired individuals, those with immunodeficiency disorders, anger issues, domestic violence issues, & empty nesters.
Children: 6 to 17. I serve those with ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, body dysmorphia, identity disorders, schizophrenia, addictions, truancy issues, low-self-esteem issues, oppositional defiant disorders, & OCD, and mood disorders. Adults (18+): I work with those who have anxiety, depression, low-self-esteem, addictions, ADHD, personality disorders, identity issues, adjusting to new conditions, PTSD, body dysmorphia, separation (a break-up, divorce, separation issues, new parents, teachers, retired individuals, those with immunodeficiency disorders, anger issues, domestic violence issues, & empty nesters.
(704) 666-4698 x801 View (704) 666-4698 x801
Photo of Jefferson Mccombs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cabarrus County, NC
Jefferson Mccombs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Kannapolis, NC 28083
My ideal client would be a person who is motivated for change, however one of my main specialties is the ablilty to work with unmotivated and even hostile clients who have been court ordered or adolescents who are forced to come by their parents. I can work with a client on a myriad of issues including anixiety, depression, low self-esteem, complusions and addictions.
My ideal client would be a person who is motivated for change, however one of my main specialties is the ablilty to work with unmotivated and even hostile clients who have been court ordered or adolescents who are forced to come by their parents. I can work with a client on a myriad of issues including anixiety, depression, low self-esteem, complusions and addictions.
(704) 751-4949 x2 View (704) 751-4949 x2
Photo of Dr. Beth Arrigo, Psychologist in Cabarrus County, NC
Dr. Beth Arrigo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kannapolis, NC 28081
I have been practicing psychotherapy for 30 years. I have experience with a wide range of issues. I am most effective with anxiety related disorders and mood disorders. I have extensive training in mindfulness based cognitive behavioral therapy and utilize that approach most often. I find that I am able to connect with a wide range of clients and issues due to my many years of practice. I consider it an honor and a privilege to assist people meet their goals and make any life adjustments they bring.
I have been practicing psychotherapy for 30 years. I have experience with a wide range of issues. I am most effective with anxiety related disorders and mood disorders. I have extensive training in mindfulness based cognitive behavioral therapy and utilize that approach most often. I find that I am able to connect with a wide range of clients and issues due to my many years of practice. I consider it an honor and a privilege to assist people meet their goals and make any life adjustments they bring.
(704) 216-4021 View (704) 216-4021

Online Therapists

Photo of Cindy Austin Lineberger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cabarrus County, 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 Complement & Complete Biblical Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cabarrus County, 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 Mary Cottam Keever, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cabarrus County, NC
Mary Cottam Keever
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHC
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27265
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
(336) 916-9181 View (336) 916-9181
Photo of Kathy Murray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cabarrus County, NC
Kathy Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, Somatic
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
As a Somatic Therapist, I believe that everyone has within them an inner wisdom and inner healing power that is their natural birthright. My role is to help create the environment for that inner genius to arise and find itself. When this is done, new meaning, purpose and life narratives can be discovered and lived out. I have wide experience assisting individuals in managing a variety of behavioral and emotional concerns including trauma, chronic pain and health issues, difficult life transitions, weight management, anxiety, depression, and stress management.
As a Somatic Therapist, I believe that everyone has within them an inner wisdom and inner healing power that is their natural birthright. My role is to help create the environment for that inner genius to arise and find itself. When this is done, new meaning, purpose and life narratives can be discovered and lived out. I have wide experience assisting individuals in managing a variety of behavioral and emotional concerns including trauma, chronic pain and health issues, difficult life transitions, weight management, anxiety, depression, and stress management.
(919) 276-8754 View (919) 276-8754
Photo of Karen Maynard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cabarrus County, NC
Karen Maynard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Clemmons, NC 27012
Stress and emotional pain certainly impact employment/school performance, interpersonal relationships, and physical health. Chronic stress/emotional pain can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and misguided coping through substances. It changes your perception; contributes to conflict with family/friends and situations previously managed become overwhelming. If this sounds familiar, Health Matters can help.
Stress and emotional pain certainly impact employment/school performance, interpersonal relationships, and physical health. Chronic stress/emotional pain can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and misguided coping through substances. It changes your perception; contributes to conflict with family/friends and situations previously managed become overwhelming. If this sounds familiar, Health Matters can help.
(336) 515-0738 View (336) 515-0738
Photo of Tamara Share, Psychologist in Cabarrus County, NC
Tamara Share
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
Working with adults and adolescents in individual, couples, and group counseling, Tamara considers herself a generalist in the field of psychology. Her areas of expertise include developmental concerns, anxiety and stress management, career and life planning, cultural identities, dissertation/thesis coaching, ADHD and LD coaching and testing, and health psychology (e.g. eating and weight concerns, mind-body awareness, and dealing with chronic illness). She also provides organizational consultation and is a trained facilitator in outdoor education. Recent presentations have included: 1) sexual intimacy, 2) wellness coaching, 3) exploring gender norms, and 4) the treatment of disordered eating & other psychosomatic illnesses.
Working with adults and adolescents in individual, couples, and group counseling, Tamara considers herself a generalist in the field of psychology. Her areas of expertise include developmental concerns, anxiety and stress management, career and life planning, cultural identities, dissertation/thesis coaching, ADHD and LD coaching and testing, and health psychology (e.g. eating and weight concerns, mind-body awareness, and dealing with chronic illness). She also provides organizational consultation and is a trained facilitator in outdoor education. Recent presentations have included: 1) sexual intimacy, 2) wellness coaching, 3) exploring gender norms, and 4) the treatment of disordered eating & other psychosomatic illnesses.
(919) 666-3842 x129 View (919) 666-3842 x129
Photo of Sacred Listener, Counselor in Cabarrus County, NC
Sacred Listener
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I also have experience as a hospital chaplain and am honored to help those dealing with chronic illness, grief, and loss.
Are you a generally healthy person, looking for guidance in how to live your life in the healthiest and happiest way? Whether your challenges are in the realm of finances, relationships, work satisfaction, anxiety, or depression, transpersonal counseling can help you! If you are looking for a therapist that can include your spiritual beliefs and include those in your treatment, and if you enjoy varied approaches to mental health and happiness such as art, yoga, and meditation, I might be the therapist for you!
I also have experience as a hospital chaplain and am honored to help those dealing with chronic illness, grief, and loss.
Are you a generally healthy person, looking for guidance in how to live your life in the healthiest and happiest way? Whether your challenges are in the realm of finances, relationships, work satisfaction, anxiety, or depression, transpersonal counseling can help you! If you are looking for a therapist that can include your spiritual beliefs and include those in your treatment, and if you enjoy varied approaches to mental health and happiness such as art, yoga, and meditation, I might be the therapist for you!
(919) 335-6734 View (919) 335-6734
Photo of Asha Sims, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cabarrus County, NC
Asha Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
Are you tired of traditional psychotherapy and feel like its not helping any more? Do you feel the current forms of treatment are not enough? Dealing with stress, anxiety, and overly sensitive to others? Body pain and somatic concerns? Feeling disconnected? Not grounded? Financial issues? Relationship issues? Its time to come into balance! Time to reconnect with SELF!!
Are you tired of traditional psychotherapy and feel like its not helping any more? Do you feel the current forms of treatment are not enough? Dealing with stress, anxiety, and overly sensitive to others? Body pain and somatic concerns? Feeling disconnected? Not grounded? Financial issues? Relationship issues? Its time to come into balance! Time to reconnect with SELF!!
(704) 703-7278 View (704) 703-7278
Photo of Online Teletherapy For Asheville North Carolina Martha Watson in Cabarrus County, NC
Online Teletherapy For Asheville North Carolina Martha Watson
PhD, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Pinehurst, NC 28374
Specialties: Trauma & PTSD (Online Men's Trauma Coaching), Anxiety and Stress Management, Stress Reduction for Cancer Patients, Child & Teen Stress, Anxiety, Fear and Anger Mindfulness & Emotional Regulation, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, Chronic Illness, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome Coaching), Pain Management, Spirituality and Mind-body Medicine.
Feeling overwhelmed by trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's anger? The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably increased stress and anxiety, impacting both adults and children's mental and physical well-being. A holistic approach that combines CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine offers evidence-based methods for lasting results. This comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of stress challenges, helping you cope, restore your health & handle life transitions. It tackles stress triggers like fear, negative emotions & feeling overwhelmed. Book your complimentary online consultation today for a drug free positive coping strategy.
Specialties: Trauma & PTSD (Online Men's Trauma Coaching), Anxiety and Stress Management, Stress Reduction for Cancer Patients, Child & Teen Stress, Anxiety, Fear and Anger Mindfulness & Emotional Regulation, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, Chronic Illness, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome Coaching), Pain Management, Spirituality and Mind-body Medicine.
Feeling overwhelmed by trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's anger? The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably increased stress and anxiety, impacting both adults and children's mental and physical well-being. A holistic approach that combines CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine offers evidence-based methods for lasting results. This comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of stress challenges, helping you cope, restore your health & handle life transitions. It tackles stress triggers like fear, negative emotions & feeling overwhelmed. Book your complimentary online consultation today for a drug free positive coping strategy.
(828) 888-0944 View (828) 888-0944
Photo of Alan Konell in Cabarrus County, NC
Alan Konell
MSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27516  (Online Only)
My ideal client is one who wants relief from stress, anxiety, guilt and/or shame, trauma, or chronic pain, but has not been able to achieve this. Typically, I can help people realize lasting desired change efficiently and effectively. Also, I have had great success helping people with phobias and fears and those who want improved relationships. My first goal is to do no harm. My second goal is to help clients realize desired goals while respecting and preserving what is already working in their lives.
My ideal client is one who wants relief from stress, anxiety, guilt and/or shame, trauma, or chronic pain, but has not been able to achieve this. Typically, I can help people realize lasting desired change efficiently and effectively. Also, I have had great success helping people with phobias and fears and those who want improved relationships. My first goal is to do no harm. My second goal is to help clients realize desired goals while respecting and preserving what is already working in their lives.
(919) 804-1347 View (919) 804-1347
Photo of The Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Center of Charlot, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Cabarrus County, NC
The Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Center of Charlot
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Particular areas of focus include anxiety, depression, addictions, and chronic pain.
You have a right to a better life, to live with less distress; to have a life with possibility, potential, and vitality. I have worked with people like you who have found that within the warm, accepting, nonjudgmental, and supportive environment of our therapeutic relationship that change becomes possible. I invite you to be courageous and to reach beyond your fears to claim the life that you want. Utilizing established, researched, and respected therapies, I treat many emotional and behavioral disorders by helping clients face their struggles and move towards a valued life.
Particular areas of focus include anxiety, depression, addictions, and chronic pain.
You have a right to a better life, to live with less distress; to have a life with possibility, potential, and vitality. I have worked with people like you who have found that within the warm, accepting, nonjudgmental, and supportive environment of our therapeutic relationship that change becomes possible. I invite you to be courageous and to reach beyond your fears to claim the life that you want. Utilizing established, researched, and respected therapies, I treat many emotional and behavioral disorders by helping clients face their struggles and move towards a valued life.
(980) 399-5470 View (980) 399-5470
Photo of Christi Bemister, PsyD, PLLC, Psychologist in Cabarrus County, NC
Christi Bemister, PsyD, PLLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526  (Online Only)
I am a trauma informed therapist, with 30+ years’ experience, my own healing journey, and clinical education focused on chronic pain & illness.
I invite you to a safe and compassionate space to untangle and release difficulties that interfere with your quality or functioning in life. Taking a look at hurts can help normalize and clarify confusing or negative behavior, thoughts, and emotions to integrate past experiences. Embodiment, mindfulness, and somatic experiential practices lead you to gain physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. These practical techniques, along with education, and therapeutic processing will guide you along your path to integrated health and the resilience needed to manage the most stressful circumstances. You become your own best friend.
I am a trauma informed therapist, with 30+ years’ experience, my own healing journey, and clinical education focused on chronic pain & illness.
I invite you to a safe and compassionate space to untangle and release difficulties that interfere with your quality or functioning in life. Taking a look at hurts can help normalize and clarify confusing or negative behavior, thoughts, and emotions to integrate past experiences. Embodiment, mindfulness, and somatic experiential practices lead you to gain physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. These practical techniques, along with education, and therapeutic processing will guide you along your path to integrated health and the resilience needed to manage the most stressful circumstances. You become your own best friend.
(734) 796-1686 View (734) 796-1686
Photo of Tiffany Schiffner, Psychologist in Cabarrus County, NC
Tiffany Schiffner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28278  (Online Only)
Dr. Schiffner is a Latinx licensed psychologist who provides culturally inclusive, empowerment and compassion-based psychotherapy focused on heart healing. She offers individual therapy to adults, older adults (seniors) and psychological assessments to Veterans. Dr. Schiffner specializes in working with diverse client populations and combines cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, solution focused, sex positivity and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients with relationship difficulties, chronic health and pain concerns, and life transitions. She is trauma-informed and honors the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit.
Dr. Schiffner is a Latinx licensed psychologist who provides culturally inclusive, empowerment and compassion-based psychotherapy focused on heart healing. She offers individual therapy to adults, older adults (seniors) and psychological assessments to Veterans. Dr. Schiffner specializes in working with diverse client populations and combines cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, solution focused, sex positivity and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients with relationship difficulties, chronic health and pain concerns, and life transitions. She is trauma-informed and honors the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit.
(321) 730-3872 View (321) 730-3872
Photo of Cara Jones Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Cabarrus County, NC
Cara Jones Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, BCPCC
Verified Verified
Mebane, NC 27302
Do you need help thriving to function at your best or improve your relationships? Are peace and joy missing in this season of life? I help driven women relieve the suffering that comes from living life busy, but unfulfilled. Suffering that feels like anxiety, overwhelm, depression, emptiness, relationship conflict and loneliness, grief, spiritual struggles or physical pain. Learn how to reconnect with what's most important to you, feel alive, and accept yourself and others. Embrace the good offered from transitions you're in or forge new possibilities for a meaningful, joyful and internally peaceful life.
Do you need help thriving to function at your best or improve your relationships? Are peace and joy missing in this season of life? I help driven women relieve the suffering that comes from living life busy, but unfulfilled. Suffering that feels like anxiety, overwhelm, depression, emptiness, relationship conflict and loneliness, grief, spiritual struggles or physical pain. Learn how to reconnect with what's most important to you, feel alive, and accept yourself and others. Embrace the good offered from transitions you're in or forge new possibilities for a meaningful, joyful and internally peaceful life.
(919) 504-5736 View (919) 504-5736
Photo of Nicole Marino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cabarrus County, NC
Nicole Marino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Clients often tell me they feel like something is missing or they know what the problem is but can't resolve it on their own. Most are beginning to recognize unhealthy patterns and can't quite understand the origin or how to change. They are distracting themselves from the real issues with self sabotaging behaviors such as overeating, overworking or excessive alcohol intake. Sometimes they just need help adjusting to life changes such as divorce, illness/health changes, partnering, retirement or becoming a parent. I treat a variety of issues/mental health diagnoses including weight management, binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating and bariatric surgery.
Clients often tell me they feel like something is missing or they know what the problem is but can't resolve it on their own. Most are beginning to recognize unhealthy patterns and can't quite understand the origin or how to change. They are distracting themselves from the real issues with self sabotaging behaviors such as overeating, overworking or excessive alcohol intake. Sometimes they just need help adjusting to life changes such as divorce, illness/health changes, partnering, retirement or becoming a parent. I treat a variety of issues/mental health diagnoses including weight management, binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating and bariatric surgery.
(704) 313-1945 View (704) 313-1945

See more therapy options for Cabarrus County

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.