Photo of N. Diane Stamey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Canton, NC
N. Diane Stamey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT, LFBPC
Verified Verified
Canton, NC 28716
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook@Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook@Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
(828) 348-6863 View (828) 348-6863
Photo of Chelsea King, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Canton, NC
Chelsea King
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCAS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canton, NC 28716
Waitlist until June 1st. Sometimes when life hands you lemons, it can be hard to transform it into lemonade. It's a process and maybe you don't have the utensils or a recipe to reference. When you are ready to make lemonade out of life, that's where I step in to help. My goal is to be present for you when you are contemplating making a change. Whether it is incorporating more self-care, balancing a busy lifestyle, making a career change, addressing mental health concerns, or processing past trauma, counseling can be a utensil in your kitchen to improve your life. I've been working with clients to address a variety of concerns.
Waitlist until June 1st. Sometimes when life hands you lemons, it can be hard to transform it into lemonade. It's a process and maybe you don't have the utensils or a recipe to reference. When you are ready to make lemonade out of life, that's where I step in to help. My goal is to be present for you when you are contemplating making a change. Whether it is incorporating more self-care, balancing a busy lifestyle, making a career change, addressing mental health concerns, or processing past trauma, counseling can be a utensil in your kitchen to improve your life. I've been working with clients to address a variety of concerns.
(828) 882-2641 View (828) 882-2641

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Merchant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Canton, NC
Ashley Merchant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28785  (Online Only)
We live in a world quickly changing with many demands and stressors. Therapy is like working out at a gym. Instead, it is building inner strength and emotional fitness. Traumas or events can happen in life leading to a dysregulated nervous system. We can experience the loss of a job, partner, or identity; the loss of a loved one or pet; disease, illness, financial instability; relationship or family issues, or housing crisis that spin our worlds upside down. Maybe it is low self-worth, stress, or feeling stuck in life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to be a supportive ally for your growth.
We live in a world quickly changing with many demands and stressors. Therapy is like working out at a gym. Instead, it is building inner strength and emotional fitness. Traumas or events can happen in life leading to a dysregulated nervous system. We can experience the loss of a job, partner, or identity; the loss of a loved one or pet; disease, illness, financial instability; relationship or family issues, or housing crisis that spin our worlds upside down. Maybe it is low self-worth, stress, or feeling stuck in life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to be a supportive ally for your growth.
(828) 622-4095 View (828) 622-4095
Photo of Savana Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Canton, 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
Photo of Dr. Christine Abassary, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Canton, NC
Dr. Christine Abassary
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Candler, NC 28715
Waitlist for new clients
You deserve to feel happiness along with a range of emotions. Did you know recent events can trigger our past traumas? Addressing our emotions through healthy coping can free our potential, improve relationships and help us to simply enjoy our life more thoroughly. I will work within an authentic, present-focused, self-paced therapeutic relationship to foster change. We will address past traumas at your pace and current obstacles to heal. I utilize tools that are evidence-based and meet your specific needs. I have over 20 years experience working with children, adolescents and adults from various backgrounds.
You deserve to feel happiness along with a range of emotions. Did you know recent events can trigger our past traumas? Addressing our emotions through healthy coping can free our potential, improve relationships and help us to simply enjoy our life more thoroughly. I will work within an authentic, present-focused, self-paced therapeutic relationship to foster change. We will address past traumas at your pace and current obstacles to heal. I utilize tools that are evidence-based and meet your specific needs. I have over 20 years experience working with children, adolescents and adults from various backgrounds.
(828) 761-0963 View (828) 761-0963

Online Therapists

Photo of Jared Hinton, Counselor in Canton, NC
Jared Hinton
Counselor, MAT, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I specialize in helping people recover from relational trauma and experience issues related to co-dependency, grief, adverse childhood experiences and growing up around alcoholism, addiction or mental illness.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice in Asheville, North Carolina. A history teacher turned therapist, my theoretical influences stem from Contemplative and Buddhist Psychology, a deep interest and regard for Native American and indigenous cultures, village-mindedness, Gestalt Therapy, as well as my roles as a husband, father, and friend.
I specialize in helping people recover from relational trauma and experience issues related to co-dependency, grief, adverse childhood experiences and growing up around alcoholism, addiction or mental illness.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice in Asheville, North Carolina. A history teacher turned therapist, my theoretical influences stem from Contemplative and Buddhist Psychology, a deep interest and regard for Native American and indigenous cultures, village-mindedness, Gestalt Therapy, as well as my roles as a husband, father, and friend.
(828) 575-3066 View (828) 575-3066
Photo of Rock of Refuge Counseling Center, Counselor in Canton, 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 Pamilla G Yount in Canton, NC
Pamilla G Yount
CMH, CHT, CHI
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
Hypnosis works to stop smoking, weight loss, stress, pain management, restructuring and reinventing your life . It also works for creating a positive new way of life.
Hypnosis works to stop smoking, weight loss, stress, pain management, restructuring and reinventing your life . It also works for creating a positive new way of life.
(828) 962-4336 View (828) 962-4336
Photo of Carol Greenberger, Counselor in Canton, NC
Carol Greenberger
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
(828) 484-2226 View (828) 484-2226
Photo of Guy Morganstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Canton, NC
Guy Morganstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I also enjoy working with people dealing with chronic pain and illness, and those with LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
I also enjoy working with people dealing with chronic pain and illness, and those with LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
(828) 337-7549 View (828) 337-7549
Photo of Lottie Cooper, LPC Intern in Canton, NC
Lottie Cooper
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
Are you feeling stuck and want a breakthrough? I can facilitate releasing your physical, emotional, spiritual pain that is stored in the body. Are you ready to commit to yourself ? I am committed to supporting you in creating a joyful & fulfilling life. I use many modalities to individualize sessions to meet your needs to heal your pain mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Learn sensitive ways of thinking and communicating to support your relationships, create new perspectives, inner wisdom, and self-love, for a more fulfilling life. Learn skills to easily release stress, and explorations to track your progress.
Are you feeling stuck and want a breakthrough? I can facilitate releasing your physical, emotional, spiritual pain that is stored in the body. Are you ready to commit to yourself ? I am committed to supporting you in creating a joyful & fulfilling life. I use many modalities to individualize sessions to meet your needs to heal your pain mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Learn sensitive ways of thinking and communicating to support your relationships, create new perspectives, inner wisdom, and self-love, for a more fulfilling life. Learn skills to easily release stress, and explorations to track your progress.
(828) 944-4105 View (828) 944-4105
Photo of Vanessa Guerrero, LCMHC Associate in Canton, NC
Vanessa Guerrero
LCMHC Associate, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
I work primarily with female adolescents and young adults with a history of chronic illness, trauma, perfectionism, depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders.
Currently Accepting Clients ( Telehealth Only)-My name is Vanessa Guerero and I am a clinical therapist with Winter to Spring Wellness. Prior to being in Asheville for almost a decade, I originally hail from Miami, Fl. I am a proud daughter of Cuban immigrants and a first-generation college student. As a teen I had my own battles with physical and mental wellness, difficulties with acculturation as well as struggled with cultural stigma in regard to mental health care. Through my own work, I have been able to find healing and am now honored to support others who struggle with their own mental wellness and similar issues.
I work primarily with female adolescents and young adults with a history of chronic illness, trauma, perfectionism, depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders.
Currently Accepting Clients ( Telehealth Only)-My name is Vanessa Guerero and I am a clinical therapist with Winter to Spring Wellness. Prior to being in Asheville for almost a decade, I originally hail from Miami, Fl. I am a proud daughter of Cuban immigrants and a first-generation college student. As a teen I had my own battles with physical and mental wellness, difficulties with acculturation as well as struggled with cultural stigma in regard to mental health care. Through my own work, I have been able to find healing and am now honored to support others who struggle with their own mental wellness and similar issues.
(828) 382-8550 View (828) 382-8550
Photo of Madison Brightwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Canton, NC
Madison Brightwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger.
I am licensed in four states and can offer Telehealth sessions to clients in CA, NC, WA and OR. Let's face it - life can be difficult. If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or you're struggling to just to feel "normal" again, you've made the right choice by seeking therapy. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to face and overcome life's challenges. You don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I know no two individuals are the same, and I'll tailor our sessions to address the challenges unique to you.
I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger.
I am licensed in four states and can offer Telehealth sessions to clients in CA, NC, WA and OR. Let's face it - life can be difficult. If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or you're struggling to just to feel "normal" again, you've made the right choice by seeking therapy. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to face and overcome life's challenges. You don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I know no two individuals are the same, and I'll tailor our sessions to address the challenges unique to you.
(828) 575-5097 View (828) 575-5097
Photo of David Kaufmann, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Canton, NC
David Kaufmann
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
Life is challenging, sometimes it can feel like we aren’t made for the pace that is asked of us in today’s world. The result can feel like disconnect, overwhelm, or even depression and anxiety. Therapy can help. It is clear to me in my work, and in my own life, that once we start paying attention to our pain, we can do something about it. Having a guide in that process can make it simpler and more effective. Everyone is unique and as individuals what we need can take time to uncover and incorporate into our daily lives.
Life is challenging, sometimes it can feel like we aren’t made for the pace that is asked of us in today’s world. The result can feel like disconnect, overwhelm, or even depression and anxiety. Therapy can help. It is clear to me in my work, and in my own life, that once we start paying attention to our pain, we can do something about it. Having a guide in that process can make it simpler and more effective. Everyone is unique and as individuals what we need can take time to uncover and incorporate into our daily lives.
(828) 332-5594 View (828) 332-5594
Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Canton, 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 Bonnie Freestone in Canton, NC
Bonnie Freestone
MA, SEP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28806
As a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner with a specialization in early attachment, I love to support clients to access the incredible power of their own bodies. Focusing on body awareness, mindfulness and empathy, I hold a safe, compassionate space for my clients to move from old traumatic behaviors, thoughts and relational patterns toward freedom and joy. Together, we bring loving attention not only to what hurts but to the self underneath. I love seeing how inner growth helps people shape a life of real connection and creativity.
As a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner with a specialization in early attachment, I love to support clients to access the incredible power of their own bodies. Focusing on body awareness, mindfulness and empathy, I hold a safe, compassionate space for my clients to move from old traumatic behaviors, thoughts and relational patterns toward freedom and joy. Together, we bring loving attention not only to what hurts but to the self underneath. I love seeing how inner growth helps people shape a life of real connection and creativity.
(828) 383-8315 View (828) 383-8315
Photo of Coyle Coaching and Consulting in Canton, NC
Coyle Coaching and Consulting
PhD
Verified Verified
Weaverville, NC 28787
As a counseling psychologist by education, I have been blessed to provide individual, group, marital and family counseling for over 30 years in various settings including major medical centers, university counseling centers, and private practices. I prefer to work collaboratively with clients, ages 13 to adult, and assist in their development of life and relational skills to help moderate their anxiety, depression, grief, frustration or relationship distress. My clients are confronting various life transitions including job stress/dissatisfaction, mid-life confusion, betrayal, divorce, adjustment to change or loss of a loved one.
As a counseling psychologist by education, I have been blessed to provide individual, group, marital and family counseling for over 30 years in various settings including major medical centers, university counseling centers, and private practices. I prefer to work collaboratively with clients, ages 13 to adult, and assist in their development of life and relational skills to help moderate their anxiety, depression, grief, frustration or relationship distress. My clients are confronting various life transitions including job stress/dissatisfaction, mid-life confusion, betrayal, divorce, adjustment to change or loss of a loved one.
(865) 290-7293 View (865) 290-7293
Photo of Forsyth Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Canton, NC
Forsyth Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
(828) 367-1010 View (828) 367-1010
Photo of Lauren Britton Counseling, Counselor in Canton, NC
Lauren Britton Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
Waitlist for new clients
The decision to attend counseling can be a difficult step, and finding the right therapist can feel daunting! I hope the information here will answer some of your questions. My goal as your therapist will be to walk next to you as you identify and move closer to your personal goals. I am passionate about empowering individuals with the skills to manage challenges and move towards an enhanced sense of fulfillment in life. I approach therapy from the belief that you are the ONLY expert on yourself. Together we can help you tap into and trust your internal wisdom.
The decision to attend counseling can be a difficult step, and finding the right therapist can feel daunting! I hope the information here will answer some of your questions. My goal as your therapist will be to walk next to you as you identify and move closer to your personal goals. I am passionate about empowering individuals with the skills to manage challenges and move towards an enhanced sense of fulfillment in life. I approach therapy from the belief that you are the ONLY expert on yourself. Together we can help you tap into and trust your internal wisdom.
(828) 293-4302 View (828) 293-4302
Photo of Matt Snyder, Licensed Professional Counselor in Canton, NC
Matt Snyder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LCMHCS, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28792  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
People often think psychotherapy is only for crises. However research shows that therapy is one of the best investments you can make for life satisfaction and growth. In addition to therapy are other modalities that support healing and growth. Some of these holistic wellness tools include exercise, mindfulness, tai chi and yoga. I have a rich background in the application of mindfulness to promote healing and growth, and have experience integrating tools such as Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT, CBT, Hypnosis and EMDR. I also find authenticity and humor essential for healing and use both liberally.
People often think psychotherapy is only for crises. However research shows that therapy is one of the best investments you can make for life satisfaction and growth. In addition to therapy are other modalities that support healing and growth. Some of these holistic wellness tools include exercise, mindfulness, tai chi and yoga. I have a rich background in the application of mindfulness to promote healing and growth, and have experience integrating tools such as Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT, CBT, Hypnosis and EMDR. I also find authenticity and humor essential for healing and use both liberally.
(828) 332-5927 View (828) 332-5927

See more therapy options for Canton

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.