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Online Therapists

Photo of John Magee, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Cashiers, NC
John Magee
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I believe that most people have the answers within themselves to work through their own problems - my role is to guide you. I have experience helping people who are struggling with anxiety and depression, or who are numbing out through substance use. My clients are often working through life transitions and other challenging situations, such as relationship issues, grief, or chronic pain. Perhaps you have not been handling your emotions very well. You may even feel hopeless, or unsure how to articulate what you are feeling. Therapy is a collaborative journey to a more healthy state of mind.
I believe that most people have the answers within themselves to work through their own problems - my role is to guide you. I have experience helping people who are struggling with anxiety and depression, or who are numbing out through substance use. My clients are often working through life transitions and other challenging situations, such as relationship issues, grief, or chronic pain. Perhaps you have not been handling your emotions very well. You may even feel hopeless, or unsure how to articulate what you are feeling. Therapy is a collaborative journey to a more healthy state of mind.
(828) 547-4272 View (828) 547-4272
Photo of Melissa Middlebrook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cashiers, NC
Melissa Middlebrook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MPH, RYT200
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28806
Waitlist for new clients
None of us are immune to life's challenges and we also don't come with instructions on how to navigate these. We often carry our past experiences and stress without realizing it— to the point where we feel it not only emotionally, but also in our physical bodies. Research confirms the mind and body aren’t so separate after all, but more of an interdependent unit greatly influencing one another. Past traumas, anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, chronic illness, difficult life transition, caught in the cycles of shame + self criticism; these are all labels and struggles many of us identify with at some point, but they don't define us.
None of us are immune to life's challenges and we also don't come with instructions on how to navigate these. We often carry our past experiences and stress without realizing it— to the point where we feel it not only emotionally, but also in our physical bodies. Research confirms the mind and body aren’t so separate after all, but more of an interdependent unit greatly influencing one another. Past traumas, anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, chronic illness, difficult life transition, caught in the cycles of shame + self criticism; these are all labels and struggles many of us identify with at some point, but they don't define us.
(828) 818-9110 View (828) 818-9110
Photo of Corey Costanzo, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Cashiers, NC
Corey Costanzo
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCAS, LMBT, SEP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Lets explore your life experience in a new and exciting way. I see suffering as an opportunity to break free from old patterns, habits, and ways of thinking that are not working for you anymore. It's a call from deep inside saying, "something needs to shift". This shift can come from exploring a relationship to a substance that you are using, and the pain, anxiety, depression, or a general sense of not loving your life that may come with it. Your unique journey is here right now, and experiencing it from a nonjudgmental perspective can be a vital ingredient to moving past whatever is holding you back from living your best life.
Lets explore your life experience in a new and exciting way. I see suffering as an opportunity to break free from old patterns, habits, and ways of thinking that are not working for you anymore. It's a call from deep inside saying, "something needs to shift". This shift can come from exploring a relationship to a substance that you are using, and the pain, anxiety, depression, or a general sense of not loving your life that may come with it. Your unique journey is here right now, and experiencing it from a nonjudgmental perspective can be a vital ingredient to moving past whatever is holding you back from living your best life.
(828) 970-1704 View (828) 970-1704
Photo of Karen Jordan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cashiers, NC
Karen Jordan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
For so many people, our childhoods were not "good enough, safe enough." Maybe our caregivers were tricky and lacked the capacity to allow us full human experiences as children, and now our bodies are holding that pain. For some of us, we bonded with what was available- substances, food, sex, pain. For all of us, our emotions and behaviors make sense within the context of who we are and what we've been through. And we have survived the worst. Some of our behaviors may not be helping the way they once did. Together, we can start fulfilling the unmet needs that are underneath those behaviors so that you can grow in meaningful ways.
For so many people, our childhoods were not "good enough, safe enough." Maybe our caregivers were tricky and lacked the capacity to allow us full human experiences as children, and now our bodies are holding that pain. For some of us, we bonded with what was available- substances, food, sex, pain. For all of us, our emotions and behaviors make sense within the context of who we are and what we've been through. And we have survived the worst. Some of our behaviors may not be helping the way they once did. Together, we can start fulfilling the unmet needs that are underneath those behaviors so that you can grow in meaningful ways.
(828) 662-8902 View (828) 662-8902
Photo of Savana Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cashiers, 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 Audrey Amir, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cashiers, NC
Audrey Amir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fletcher, NC 28732
Other areas of focus include chronic illness, medical trauma, and managing grief and isolation.
Being a person can be hard. Living a life that best suits you as an individual is a work in progress. Along the way, there are undoubtedly challenges. Sometimes, our experiences leave us confused, overwhelmed, and in need of some support. As a therapist, my role is to help understand where you’ve been, where you’d like to go, and help you get there. It’s possible to move from getting by to feeling you have agency over your own life and choices. I specialize in working with challenging life events such as trauma, major life changes, relationship distress, and chronic illnesses. I also work with C-PTSD and Narcissistic Abuse recovery.
Other areas of focus include chronic illness, medical trauma, and managing grief and isolation.
Being a person can be hard. Living a life that best suits you as an individual is a work in progress. Along the way, there are undoubtedly challenges. Sometimes, our experiences leave us confused, overwhelmed, and in need of some support. As a therapist, my role is to help understand where you’ve been, where you’d like to go, and help you get there. It’s possible to move from getting by to feeling you have agency over your own life and choices. I specialize in working with challenging life events such as trauma, major life changes, relationship distress, and chronic illnesses. I also work with C-PTSD and Narcissistic Abuse recovery.
(828) 373-8290 View (828) 373-8290
Photo of Starr Renee Roberts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cashiers, NC
Starr Renee Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, M ED, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Do you need someone to bear witness to your daily struggles, and pain? Do you need someone to listen to your story about the difficulties you are having in life that leave you feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Do you feel shut down, worried, anxious, tired, sad, or angry? Are you struggling with school, work, or financial issues? Are you struggling to make it through the day because you are having problems adjusting to changes in your life? Do you feel unappreciated or misunderstood by friends, family or your partner? Are you feeling unsteady or afraid because you've been abused.
Do you need someone to bear witness to your daily struggles, and pain? Do you need someone to listen to your story about the difficulties you are having in life that leave you feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Do you feel shut down, worried, anxious, tired, sad, or angry? Are you struggling with school, work, or financial issues? Are you struggling to make it through the day because you are having problems adjusting to changes in your life? Do you feel unappreciated or misunderstood by friends, family or your partner? Are you feeling unsteady or afraid because you've been abused.
(828) 458-7371 View (828) 458-7371
Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cashiers, 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 Sandy Van Horn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cashiers, NC
Sandy Van Horn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT200, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, NC 28734
I believe growth occurs when we courageously stay along the edges of our comfort zone and gently press into that boundary widening it inch by inch. I believe healing occurs when we fully allow ourselves to feel our pain, to sit with it, to befriend it, and to find out that it has edges and boundaries ... a beginning and an end. If you've been struggling with life - that can be big and small things - we can work together to identify challenges and build your capacity to move in the direction of optimal healing and wellness.
I believe growth occurs when we courageously stay along the edges of our comfort zone and gently press into that boundary widening it inch by inch. I believe healing occurs when we fully allow ourselves to feel our pain, to sit with it, to befriend it, and to find out that it has edges and boundaries ... a beginning and an end. If you've been struggling with life - that can be big and small things - we can work together to identify challenges and build your capacity to move in the direction of optimal healing and wellness.
(828) 268-3363 View (828) 268-3363
Photo of Vanessa Guerrero, LCMHC Associate in Cashiers, 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 George Louis Lindenfeld, Psychologist in Cashiers, NC
George Louis Lindenfeld
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arden, NC 28704
I specialize in the treatment of traumatic life experiences including early childhood and adolescent attachment issues that later interfere with adult interpersonal relationships. I promote physical health and wellness through both mind and body through the use of a number of traditional and innovative techniques. I will aid you to re-establish hope, passion, and resiliency in your life now and in the future. I encourage you to set attainable goals that will lead to enhanced self-esteem, value, and meaning in your life thereby permitting you to gain greater levels of satisfaction, happiness, and a sense of completeness.
I specialize in the treatment of traumatic life experiences including early childhood and adolescent attachment issues that later interfere with adult interpersonal relationships. I promote physical health and wellness through both mind and body through the use of a number of traditional and innovative techniques. I will aid you to re-establish hope, passion, and resiliency in your life now and in the future. I encourage you to set attainable goals that will lead to enhanced self-esteem, value, and meaning in your life thereby permitting you to gain greater levels of satisfaction, happiness, and a sense of completeness.
(828) 237-4138 View (828) 237-4138
Photo of Becky M Miller, Counselor in Cashiers, NC
Becky M Miller
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I'm glad you're here. I deeply respect your courage to engage in this process, and I want to know you and your story. To help you get grounded in your body, perspective, and self. I strive to create a warm space of acceptance, meeting you with care, insight, empathy, humor and playful challenge. Through this, I hope to help you create an experience of self compassion that leads to deep changes in perspective that offer new possibilities for you. I believe therapy is a balance of support and challenge, and you grow at your own pace. I help my clients find meaning in their experiences and move forward to create new stories.
I'm glad you're here. I deeply respect your courage to engage in this process, and I want to know you and your story. To help you get grounded in your body, perspective, and self. I strive to create a warm space of acceptance, meeting you with care, insight, empathy, humor and playful challenge. Through this, I hope to help you create an experience of self compassion that leads to deep changes in perspective that offer new possibilities for you. I believe therapy is a balance of support and challenge, and you grow at your own pace. I help my clients find meaning in their experiences and move forward to create new stories.
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Photo of Eric J Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cashiers, NC
Eric J Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Life is a funny thing. And often terribly complicated. During our journey in this world, we often face challenges that can feel too big or ongoing. Whether it’s with chronic feelings of anxiousness, depression, emptiness, issues about sexual orientation, gender, or ethnicity, relationship conflict, sleep disturbances, substance misuse, school or work issues, or any combination of those, many of us struggle silently. But you don't have to. It can help to work with a therapist with a deep understanding of what it’s like with some of those struggles and who is passionate about helping others learn to thrive despite these adversities.
Life is a funny thing. And often terribly complicated. During our journey in this world, we often face challenges that can feel too big or ongoing. Whether it’s with chronic feelings of anxiousness, depression, emptiness, issues about sexual orientation, gender, or ethnicity, relationship conflict, sleep disturbances, substance misuse, school or work issues, or any combination of those, many of us struggle silently. But you don't have to. It can help to work with a therapist with a deep understanding of what it’s like with some of those struggles and who is passionate about helping others learn to thrive despite these adversities.
(828) 490-4137 View (828) 490-4137
Photo of Pamela Page Graham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cashiers, NC
Pamela Page Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, NC 28734
I love assisting families and children on their mental health journey. Navigating life, especially as a caretaker, is challenging. I, as both a mother and clinician, aim to normalize this shared human experience and understand the 'why' behind behaviors to foster healing. My therapeutic approach centers on understanding the human condition, recognizing our interactions, and addressing perceived dysfunctions. I collaborate with children to foster trust and exploration, emphasizing psychoeducation to explain the science behind our strategies. Identifying biological responses versus choices and the root cause is crucial.
I love assisting families and children on their mental health journey. Navigating life, especially as a caretaker, is challenging. I, as both a mother and clinician, aim to normalize this shared human experience and understand the 'why' behind behaviors to foster healing. My therapeutic approach centers on understanding the human condition, recognizing our interactions, and addressing perceived dysfunctions. I collaborate with children to foster trust and exploration, emphasizing psychoeducation to explain the science behind our strategies. Identifying biological responses versus choices and the root cause is crucial.
(828) 547-9305 View (828) 547-9305
Photo of Heidi Andersen, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Cashiers, NC
Heidi Andersen
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC-S, CBTP, RYT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
The best time to mend your relationship with your body is 20 years ago. The second best time is NOW. You have been feeling at war with your body and confused about your relationship with food. You are ready to heal the underlying issues that led you to be preoccupied with your body and food. You have tried other approaches and are ready to heal the root causes. You are highly sensitive, intelligent, intuitive and creative and focusing on food and your body has been a way to manage being a thin skinned person in a thick skinned world. You have a sense that your body could be a resource in healing and reclaiming trust with yourself.
The best time to mend your relationship with your body is 20 years ago. The second best time is NOW. You have been feeling at war with your body and confused about your relationship with food. You are ready to heal the underlying issues that led you to be preoccupied with your body and food. You have tried other approaches and are ready to heal the root causes. You are highly sensitive, intelligent, intuitive and creative and focusing on food and your body has been a way to manage being a thin skinned person in a thick skinned world. You have a sense that your body could be a resource in healing and reclaiming trust with yourself.
(828) 882-2621 View (828) 882-2621
Photo of Ashley Hosey, Psychological Associate in Cashiers, NC
Ashley Hosey
Psychological Associate, LPA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805  (Online Only)
Out of network provider for all insurances You're tired. You have to carry BIG emotions all the damn time with no outlet to let them out. You cry when you’re alone, but put on a smile so the world can’t see you're hurting on the inside. There is no time to slow down because slowing down makes the inner critic grow louder about how awful you are. Perhaps you get some release through disordered eating, but ultimately, that voice comes right back again. The inner critic makes it hard for you to accept yourself and love your flaws. It makes it hard for you to live your life intentionally, with confidence in yourself to use your voice.
Out of network provider for all insurances You're tired. You have to carry BIG emotions all the damn time with no outlet to let them out. You cry when you’re alone, but put on a smile so the world can’t see you're hurting on the inside. There is no time to slow down because slowing down makes the inner critic grow louder about how awful you are. Perhaps you get some release through disordered eating, but ultimately, that voice comes right back again. The inner critic makes it hard for you to accept yourself and love your flaws. It makes it hard for you to live your life intentionally, with confidence in yourself to use your voice.
(828) 622-4367 View (828) 622-4367
Photo of Melissa Kay Ciocian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cashiers, NC
Melissa Kay Ciocian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arden, NC 28704
Adolescence, young adulthood, middle age, all stages of life present unique challenges that are sometimes best navigated with support. Just the right help, in an empathetic therapy setting, often makes all the difference. Whether you are a parent, a teen, or a young adult experiencing challenging symptoms related to your mental health, we will work together to find your truth, bring to light goals, focus on strengths, and instill a sense of resiliency and self-worth that are critical to one's ability to evolve and thrive.
Adolescence, young adulthood, middle age, all stages of life present unique challenges that are sometimes best navigated with support. Just the right help, in an empathetic therapy setting, often makes all the difference. Whether you are a parent, a teen, or a young adult experiencing challenging symptoms related to your mental health, we will work together to find your truth, bring to light goals, focus on strengths, and instill a sense of resiliency and self-worth that are critical to one's ability to evolve and thrive.
(828) 818-8897 View (828) 818-8897
Photo of Deborah H. Weir, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Cashiers, NC
Deborah H. Weir
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC, CHT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
My ideal client wants to change and evolve, and is willing to work at it through sessions and homework! I'm non-judgmental and a creative collaborator with my clients. I've done my job if clients feel heard, renewed, and empowered. I have a ton of experience and credentials: I use Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Brainspotting, and Brain-based Hypnotherapy. I work in trauma recovery, relationship issues, addiction, mood disorders, Jungian counseling, and spiritual counseling. I'm extremely adventurous, youthful, and have experienced life in many places and realms.
My ideal client wants to change and evolve, and is willing to work at it through sessions and homework! I'm non-judgmental and a creative collaborator with my clients. I've done my job if clients feel heard, renewed, and empowered. I have a ton of experience and credentials: I use Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Brainspotting, and Brain-based Hypnotherapy. I work in trauma recovery, relationship issues, addiction, mood disorders, Jungian counseling, and spiritual counseling. I'm extremely adventurous, youthful, and have experienced life in many places and realms.
(828) 408-0324 View (828) 408-0324
Photo of T.j. Stiers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cashiers, NC
T.j. Stiers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
The process of therapy is about removing your personal blocks to healing and helping you to remember all that is good, right, and well within you. The path to achieving this can be varied and uniquely personal. I use a variety of methods including traditional psychotherapy and EMDR to assist you in your process. I have helped clients process traumatic memories, cope with grief, and move from anxiety and depression to states of mindful calmness and well being.
The process of therapy is about removing your personal blocks to healing and helping you to remember all that is good, right, and well within you. The path to achieving this can be varied and uniquely personal. I use a variety of methods including traditional psychotherapy and EMDR to assist you in your process. I have helped clients process traumatic memories, cope with grief, and move from anxiety and depression to states of mindful calmness and well being.
(828) 597-0638 View (828) 597-0638
Photo of Katherine Therrell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cashiers, NC
Katherine Therrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arden, NC 28704
My clients are adults, adolescents, and children who need help coping with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, abuse, educational/employment situations, family dynamics, or other problems impacting their mental health. Though I practice Cognative Behavioral Therapy, I employ a variety of methods including "talk therapy", EMDR, sand therapy, and play therapy, depending upon individual need. I strive to provide unconditional acceptance and support to my clients as they work to achieve their counseling goals. I accept Medicaid and most private insurance.
My clients are adults, adolescents, and children who need help coping with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, abuse, educational/employment situations, family dynamics, or other problems impacting their mental health. Though I practice Cognative Behavioral Therapy, I employ a variety of methods including "talk therapy", EMDR, sand therapy, and play therapy, depending upon individual need. I strive to provide unconditional acceptance and support to my clients as they work to achieve their counseling goals. I accept Medicaid and most private insurance.
(828) 565-1925 View (828) 565-1925

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.