Photo of Derek Prescott, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Camp Lejeune, NC
Derek Prescott
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PsyD, LCMHC, CAS, CATP
Verified Verified
Camp Lejeune, NC 28542
For appointments call or text 910-545-2142. We offer a compassionate and positive environment to help you make empowering decisions about life and overcome any struggles or obstacles. Using emphatic, compassionate, empowering skills, our goal is to assist you in applying the skills needed to make healthy changes. We view the therapeutic relationship as an honor and appreciate the courage that it takes to enter a healing relationship. We look forward to sharing your journey and believe that we will learn from one another throughout this healing journey.
For appointments call or text 910-545-2142. We offer a compassionate and positive environment to help you make empowering decisions about life and overcome any struggles or obstacles. Using emphatic, compassionate, empowering skills, our goal is to assist you in applying the skills needed to make healthy changes. We view the therapeutic relationship as an honor and appreciate the courage that it takes to enter a healing relationship. We look forward to sharing your journey and believe that we will learn from one another throughout this healing journey.
(910) 469-0264 View (910) 469-0264

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of C. Anne Whitfield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Camp Lejeune, NC
C. Anne Whitfield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28540
Anne treats a variety of clinical disorders, including mood disorders, attention and focus issues, stress management, relationship/martial issues, domestic violence and child abuse, grief and loss, women’s issues, and cultural lifestyle issues. Anne has been active in providing services to active-duty service members and their families coping with domestic violence. Additionally, she has a passion for working with teachers that teach exceptional children or children with challenging behavioral issues in the classroom. As well as individuals coping with chronic health conditions to cope and process their illness.
Anne treats a variety of clinical disorders, including mood disorders, attention and focus issues, stress management, relationship/martial issues, domestic violence and child abuse, grief and loss, women’s issues, and cultural lifestyle issues. Anne has been active in providing services to active-duty service members and their families coping with domestic violence. Additionally, she has a passion for working with teachers that teach exceptional children or children with challenging behavioral issues in the classroom. As well as individuals coping with chronic health conditions to cope and process their illness.
(910) 335-4253 View (910) 335-4253
Photo of Sagestone PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Camp Lejeune, NC
Sagestone PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPCA, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Hubert, NC 28539
At Sagestone, we respect and acknowledge the vital aspects of your life and take a "whole you" approach. We use empathy, compassion, and curiosity to better understand you and your needs. We listen. We share our experience, "know how", and provide thought-provoking, substantive, and practical process. We provide support that fosters safety, curiosity, and growth. We meet you where you are, in the here and now, allowing you to experience grounded vulnerability, presence, and acceptance, as you expand your way of being to embody inner peace, balance, and empowerment.
At Sagestone, we respect and acknowledge the vital aspects of your life and take a "whole you" approach. We use empathy, compassion, and curiosity to better understand you and your needs. We listen. We share our experience, "know how", and provide thought-provoking, substantive, and practical process. We provide support that fosters safety, curiosity, and growth. We meet you where you are, in the here and now, allowing you to experience grounded vulnerability, presence, and acceptance, as you expand your way of being to embody inner peace, balance, and empowerment.
(252) 674-1971 View (252) 674-1971
Mary Folger Summerlin
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28540
I enjoy working with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and with a wide array of presenting difficulties. I am person-centered and assist individuals with working towards their own personal goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups to assist with the achievement of these goals. While I feel comfortable addressing any issue, I am always willing to refer to another provider if needed.
I enjoy working with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and with a wide array of presenting difficulties. I am person-centered and assist individuals with working towards their own personal goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups to assist with the achievement of these goals. While I feel comfortable addressing any issue, I am always willing to refer to another provider if needed.
(252) 297-6201 View (252) 297-6201
Photo of Ronny Wayne Stephens, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Camp Lejeune, NC
Ronny Wayne Stephens
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LMHC, LCAS, MAC, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28546
"Accepting New Clients"...... Connected Counseling Community Center PLLC. is a professional and licensed (Private Practice). Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. You might be initially hesitant to seek out help and support for personal matters, but when you do, you will feel confident that you are taking a courageous first step towards getting to a better place and being a better you.
"Accepting New Clients"...... Connected Counseling Community Center PLLC. is a professional and licensed (Private Practice). Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. You might be initially hesitant to seek out help and support for personal matters, but when you do, you will feel confident that you are taking a courageous first step towards getting to a better place and being a better you.
(910) 591-2957 x1 View (910) 591-2957 x1

Online Therapists

Photo of Teresa Vaughan, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Camp Lejeune, NC
Teresa Vaughan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
I am grounded in CBT, but also believe in the power of art and movement in the healing of emotional pain.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change.
I am grounded in CBT, but also believe in the power of art and movement in the healing of emotional pain.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change.
(252) 689-7203 View (252) 689-7203
Photo of Anne Mauldin, Psychologist in Camp Lejeune, NC
Anne Mauldin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
(252) 455-9998 View (252) 455-9998
Photo of Catherine C Butler in Camp Lejeune, NC
Catherine C Butler
MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, illness, relationship struggles, trauma or interested in self exploration, therapy can be an effective step towards finding healing and growth. I offer a safe, supportive and respectful environment. My goal is to help you overcome obstacles and self-destructive patterns so that you can live a more authentic and joyful life. I come from a humanistic approach, combining traditional psychology with mindfulness-based practices. I bring compassion, curiosity and humor to my therapy practice. Together we will uncover the answers within yourself to help you find relief from emotional pain.
Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, illness, relationship struggles, trauma or interested in self exploration, therapy can be an effective step towards finding healing and growth. I offer a safe, supportive and respectful environment. My goal is to help you overcome obstacles and self-destructive patterns so that you can live a more authentic and joyful life. I come from a humanistic approach, combining traditional psychology with mindfulness-based practices. I bring compassion, curiosity and humor to my therapy practice. Together we will uncover the answers within yourself to help you find relief from emotional pain.
(910) 338-3703 View (910) 338-3703
Photo of Patricia A Toth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Camp Lejeune, NC
Patricia A Toth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28560  (Online Only)
Rather than identifying and categorizing the presence or absence of symptoms of illness, my practice seeks to uncover the psychological health in my clients.
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
Rather than identifying and categorizing the presence or absence of symptoms of illness, my practice seeks to uncover the psychological health in my clients.
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
(252) 392-4371 View (252) 392-4371
Photo of Amy G Therriault, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Camp Lejeune, NC
Amy G Therriault
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunn, NC 28334  (Online Only)
What thoughts race through your mind as you go through the day? What thoughts have become obstacles? Do those thoughts hold you captive in states of anxiety and depression? Do they make you feel unsafe, insecure, and isolated, even when we are surrounded by others? Do these thoughts make relationships complicated and responsibilities seem impossible? Are your mental and emotional stressors effecting your physical well-being in ways like physical pain, fatigue, sensory intolerance, brain fog, and inability to focus? Exploring your thoughts and feelings can be difficult, but you do not have to walk through this process alone.
What thoughts race through your mind as you go through the day? What thoughts have become obstacles? Do those thoughts hold you captive in states of anxiety and depression? Do they make you feel unsafe, insecure, and isolated, even when we are surrounded by others? Do these thoughts make relationships complicated and responsibilities seem impossible? Are your mental and emotional stressors effecting your physical well-being in ways like physical pain, fatigue, sensory intolerance, brain fog, and inability to focus? Exploring your thoughts and feelings can be difficult, but you do not have to walk through this process alone.
(919) 646-2779 View (919) 646-2779
Photo of Dr. Ralph Fox II, Licensed Professional Counselor in Camp Lejeune, NC
Dr. Ralph Fox II
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
(910) 216-4872 View (910) 216-4872
Photo of Marcy Arnold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Camp Lejeune, NC
Marcy Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
(252) 772-9378 View (252) 772-9378
Photo of Jean Hansson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Camp Lejeune, NC
Jean Hansson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
I am a psychotherapist with many years on mental health experience. My clientele is adults, 16 and up. Areas of practice focus are anxiety and depression, chronic pain, grief, traumatic loss, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and adult ADHD. I'm trained in the therapy modalities of hypnotherapy, EMDR Exposure (CBT), and Emotional Freedom Technique - an energy psychology method. In helping clients break old habits, I'm a licensed provider of Trim Life, a weight loss program using hypnosis. Another program is Clean Break for smoking cessation.
I am a psychotherapist with many years on mental health experience. My clientele is adults, 16 and up. Areas of practice focus are anxiety and depression, chronic pain, grief, traumatic loss, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and adult ADHD. I'm trained in the therapy modalities of hypnotherapy, EMDR Exposure (CBT), and Emotional Freedom Technique - an energy psychology method. In helping clients break old habits, I'm a licensed provider of Trim Life, a weight loss program using hypnosis. Another program is Clean Break for smoking cessation.
(252) 627-9304 View (252) 627-9304
Photo of Kathy Elias, MA, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Camp Lejeune, NC
Kathy Elias, MA
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, sadness, grief or loss, fear, shame or guilt? Do you feel withdrawn or go against your own values to please others, or even lash out sometimes because you don’t know what to do with how you feel? Holding feelings inside can lead to many problems including depression, anxiety, physical illness or ailments, and disconnection from friends and family. Are you your own worst critic and condemn yourself? Do you feel stuck, or lost in life and sometimes wonder who you are? You want to feel better but don't know how to get there.
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, sadness, grief or loss, fear, shame or guilt? Do you feel withdrawn or go against your own values to please others, or even lash out sometimes because you don’t know what to do with how you feel? Holding feelings inside can lead to many problems including depression, anxiety, physical illness or ailments, and disconnection from friends and family. Are you your own worst critic and condemn yourself? Do you feel stuck, or lost in life and sometimes wonder who you are? You want to feel better but don't know how to get there.
(919) 443-5817 View (919) 443-5817
Photo of Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling in Camp Lejeune, NC
Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling
MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, NC 27889  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be…a bit of a rollercoaster at times and can often feel unmanageable. If you find yourself becoming bogged down by life’s twists and turns, I’m here to help! My name is Courtney Howard and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. My mission is to provide a safe space for you to explore, repair, and grow. Taking the steps to begin a counseling journey isn’t easy and I’m proud of you for searching for a therapist to fit your needs. Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, suffering with illness, grieving, or struggling with mood? Then I may be the perfect fit for you!
Life can be…a bit of a rollercoaster at times and can often feel unmanageable. If you find yourself becoming bogged down by life’s twists and turns, I’m here to help! My name is Courtney Howard and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. My mission is to provide a safe space for you to explore, repair, and grow. Taking the steps to begin a counseling journey isn’t easy and I’m proud of you for searching for a therapist to fit your needs. Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, suffering with illness, grieving, or struggling with mood? Then I may be the perfect fit for you!
(252) 486-5072 View (252) 486-5072
Photo of Michele Ruhmann, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Camp Lejeune, NC
Michele Ruhmann
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28560
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is on working with people who are experiencing anxiety, pain, trauma recovery, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained, stuck and you don’t know what to do or where to turn next? Moving forward can sometimes feel daunting but you can do it. Begin to take back your power today! You can learn to manage the chaos, calm those defeating thoughts, ease the tension in your body and begin to feel positive. Your story has a purpose and is as unique as you are, we will work together to create a tailored therapy experience to meet your goals using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), somatic bodywork, and traditional talk therapy.
My focus is on working with people who are experiencing anxiety, pain, trauma recovery, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained, stuck and you don’t know what to do or where to turn next? Moving forward can sometimes feel daunting but you can do it. Begin to take back your power today! You can learn to manage the chaos, calm those defeating thoughts, ease the tension in your body and begin to feel positive. Your story has a purpose and is as unique as you are, we will work together to create a tailored therapy experience to meet your goals using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), somatic bodywork, and traditional talk therapy.
(252) 379-5081 View (252) 379-5081
Photo of Olinda Davidson in Camp Lejeune, NC
Olinda Davidson
LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
You may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious from trying to hold it all together for everyone and everything. You put on a “happy” face and push through the day only to wonder if you will ever feel better. Until now, you’ve been able to manage it on your own, but it’s starting to affect other areas of your life and you can’t pretend everything is ok anymore. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, a relationship or health concerns but wherever the pain is coming from you are tired of feeling alone and stuck. You want to make lasting changes, but deciding where to start feels impossible. I’m here and I get it.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious from trying to hold it all together for everyone and everything. You put on a “happy” face and push through the day only to wonder if you will ever feel better. Until now, you’ve been able to manage it on your own, but it’s starting to affect other areas of your life and you can’t pretend everything is ok anymore. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, a relationship or health concerns but wherever the pain is coming from you are tired of feeling alone and stuck. You want to make lasting changes, but deciding where to start feels impossible. I’m here and I get it.
(252) 582-6024 View (252) 582-6024
Photo of Christina Witmer, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Camp Lejeune, NC
Christina Witmer
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Congratulations on taking the step to consider therapy! My approach to the process is Person-Centered, neurodiverse affirming, and unique to your specific needs. Founded in scientifically proven theory, a holistic approach is considered which include biological, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual aspects. I often use techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Internal Family Systems. Operating from these perspectives I offer you a tailored experience. Your needs and well-being will always be the focus, in a safe and non-judgmental space for exploring, learning, and fostering deeper connections.
Congratulations on taking the step to consider therapy! My approach to the process is Person-Centered, neurodiverse affirming, and unique to your specific needs. Founded in scientifically proven theory, a holistic approach is considered which include biological, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual aspects. I often use techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Internal Family Systems. Operating from these perspectives I offer you a tailored experience. Your needs and well-being will always be the focus, in a safe and non-judgmental space for exploring, learning, and fostering deeper connections.
(252) 300-0916 View (252) 300-0916
Photo of Linda Sue Fuller, Counselor in Camp Lejeune, NC
Linda Sue Fuller
Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577  (Online Only)
My clients can expect an environment free of judgment, full of understanding and empathy, where they can face the challenges that they have in a supportive environment. My personal background allows me to look at client issues from a different view and offer real world healing that meets the client where they are. My client’s come from various backgrounds, but all seeking to better understand themselves and a better way of coping. Because I’m seeing clients virtually, they feel freer to share more intimate and personal concerns that might be harder to talk about in person.
My clients can expect an environment free of judgment, full of understanding and empathy, where they can face the challenges that they have in a supportive environment. My personal background allows me to look at client issues from a different view and offer real world healing that meets the client where they are. My client’s come from various backgrounds, but all seeking to better understand themselves and a better way of coping. Because I’m seeing clients virtually, they feel freer to share more intimate and personal concerns that might be harder to talk about in person.
(984) 538-9332 View (984) 538-9332
Photo of Brooke L. Musick, Counselor in Camp Lejeune, NC
Brooke L. Musick
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Oak Island, NC 28465  (Online Only)
My goal is to help you find peace and healing as you face life's struggles. Therapy is your space to let go, think out loud, learn and grow. It's a place just for you; a place to address your needs and goals.
My goal is to help you find peace and healing as you face life's struggles. Therapy is your space to let go, think out loud, learn and grow. It's a place just for you; a place to address your needs and goals.
(336) 967-8887 View (336) 967-8887
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.