Therapists in Cedar Mountain, NC
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Lawrence Cull
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brevard, NC 28712
I have been practicing clinical psychology for nearly 20 years as a licensed psychologist. In that time, I have had the pleasure of working with many people who have struggled with a wide range of challenges including relationship and couple's difficulties, addiction, anxiety, depression, serious health concerns, loss, and trauma. I utilize a number of different perspectives including cognitive-behavioral, emotion focused individual and couples, and dynamic therapies. I am also trained in EMDR, mindfulness, relaxation, stress, and pain management.
I have been practicing clinical psychology for nearly 20 years as a licensed psychologist. In that time, I have had the pleasure of working with many people who have struggled with a wide range of challenges including relationship and couple's difficulties, addiction, anxiety, depression, serious health concerns, loss, and trauma. I utilize a number of different perspectives including cognitive-behavioral, emotion focused individual and couples, and dynamic therapies. I am also trained in EMDR, mindfulness, relaxation, stress, and pain management.
Ashley Merchant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brevard, NC 28712 (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.
Katherine Therrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brevard, NC 28712
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.
Debbie Dixon Barney
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS-A, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Penrose, NC 28766
Do you ever wake up and wonder, "How did I get here?" or "Why did this have to happen to me?" Maybe you wish your life looked differently but are not sure how to get there. We all have "things" we need to process, but my experience is that we often get “stuck in a rut” with how we approach problems. We need a new perspective or another person to help us process our "stuff” - someone who can ask us questions to help us to see things from a different vantage point or to help us rewrite our stories with hope, purpose, and excitement. My desire is to help people see how the “stuff” in their lives can be used in amazing ways.
Do you ever wake up and wonder, "How did I get here?" or "Why did this have to happen to me?" Maybe you wish your life looked differently but are not sure how to get there. We all have "things" we need to process, but my experience is that we often get “stuck in a rut” with how we approach problems. We need a new perspective or another person to help us process our "stuff” - someone who can ask us questions to help us to see things from a different vantage point or to help us rewrite our stories with hope, purpose, and excitement. My desire is to help people see how the “stuff” in their lives can be used in amazing ways.
Online Therapists
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.
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.
Online Teletherapy For Asheville North Carolina Martha Watson
PhD, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Specialties: Trauma & PTSD (Online Men's Trauma Coaching), Anxiety and Stress Management, Stress Reduction for Cancer Patients, Child & Teen Stress, Anxiety, Fear and Anger Mindfulness & Emotional Regulation, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, Chronic Illness, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome Coaching), Pain Management, Spirituality and Mind-body Medicine.
Feeling overwhelmed by trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's anger? The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably increased stress and anxiety, impacting both adults and children's mental and physical well-being. A holistic approach that combines CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine offers evidence-based methods for lasting results. This comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of stress challenges, helping you cope, restore your health & handle life transitions. It tackles stress triggers like fear, negative emotions & feeling overwhelmed. Book your complimentary online consultation today for a drug free positive coping strategy.
Specialties: Trauma & PTSD (Online Men's Trauma Coaching), Anxiety and Stress Management, Stress Reduction for Cancer Patients, Child & Teen Stress, Anxiety, Fear and Anger Mindfulness & Emotional Regulation, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, Chronic Illness, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome Coaching), Pain Management, Spirituality and Mind-body Medicine.
Feeling overwhelmed by trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's anger? The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably increased stress and anxiety, impacting both adults and children's mental and physical well-being. A holistic approach that combines CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine offers evidence-based methods for lasting results. This comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of stress challenges, helping you cope, restore your health & handle life transitions. It tackles stress triggers like fear, negative emotions & feeling overwhelmed. Book your complimentary online consultation today for a drug free positive coping strategy.
Grace Parsley
Counselor, MS, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I’ve always found that authenticity is the only path to true connection. For those wanting support in transition(s), processing loss or trauma, living with chronic illness/disability, or simply unable to find your way forward; You deserve a counselor who will see you as a person first, not defined by your struggles but someone deserving of validation, support, and care. I pay close attention to the systems in which you are surrounded, the relationships that factor in your wellness, how the past informs the present, and the strengths you have within yourself to make a meaningful life.
I’ve always found that authenticity is the only path to true connection. For those wanting support in transition(s), processing loss or trauma, living with chronic illness/disability, or simply unable to find your way forward; You deserve a counselor who will see you as a person first, not defined by your struggles but someone deserving of validation, support, and care. I pay close attention to the systems in which you are surrounded, the relationships that factor in your wellness, how the past informs the present, and the strengths you have within yourself to make a meaningful life.
Tiffany Schiffner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28278 (Online Only)
Dr. Schiffner is a Latinx licensed psychologist who provides culturally inclusive, empowerment and compassion-based psychotherapy focused on heart healing. She offers individual therapy to adults, older adults (seniors) and psychological assessments to Veterans. Dr. Schiffner specializes in working with diverse client populations and combines cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, solution focused, sex positivity and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients with relationship difficulties, chronic health and pain concerns, and life transitions. She is trauma-informed and honors the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit.
Dr. Schiffner is a Latinx licensed psychologist who provides culturally inclusive, empowerment and compassion-based psychotherapy focused on heart healing. She offers individual therapy to adults, older adults (seniors) and psychological assessments to Veterans. Dr. Schiffner specializes in working with diverse client populations and combines cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, solution focused, sex positivity and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients with relationship difficulties, chronic health and pain concerns, and life transitions. She is trauma-informed and honors the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit.
Will Hamilton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I’m very comfortable helping patients with long-term meditation practices, those who might be struggling with shame, chronic illnesses or pain, difficult experiences from the past, or want to be more loving.
Offering Teletherapy in Most States: I primarily use IFS and behavioral treatments (ACT, DBT, CFT, RODBT) to emphasize acceptance of one's current experience, the development of skills (mindfulness, play, perspective, assertiveness, inquiry, and values), and use courage and experimentation to help promote change. I also help facilitate ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and I am strong advocate of developing the skill of compassion for oneself and others. Many of us struggle with finding a sense of being home with reality as it is, although that home is always available and may be easier to return to than assumed.
I’m very comfortable helping patients with long-term meditation practices, those who might be struggling with shame, chronic illnesses or pain, difficult experiences from the past, or want to be more loving.
Offering Teletherapy in Most States: I primarily use IFS and behavioral treatments (ACT, DBT, CFT, RODBT) to emphasize acceptance of one's current experience, the development of skills (mindfulness, play, perspective, assertiveness, inquiry, and values), and use courage and experimentation to help promote change. I also help facilitate ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and I am strong advocate of developing the skill of compassion for oneself and others. Many of us struggle with finding a sense of being home with reality as it is, although that home is always available and may be easier to return to than assumed.
Rebecca Fugate
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Black Mountain, NC 28711 (Online Only)
Many people arrive in therapy in emotional pain and distress.
I provide individual therapy services to adults of all ages, and am licensed to practice in NC. I have over 20 years of experience working with clients of various backgrounds and life situations. I worked for years providing therapy in adult community mental health settings, a college counseling center, as well as experience serving as a Mental Health therapist for Native American/tribal population. I am well experienced in treatment of anxiety (including OCD, Generalized Anxiety, Phobia, Panic Disorder, etc), depression, grief/loss, codependency, life adjustment/transitions, family of origin issues, and PTSD.
Many people arrive in therapy in emotional pain and distress.
I provide individual therapy services to adults of all ages, and am licensed to practice in NC. I have over 20 years of experience working with clients of various backgrounds and life situations. I worked for years providing therapy in adult community mental health settings, a college counseling center, as well as experience serving as a Mental Health therapist for Native American/tribal population. I am well experienced in treatment of anxiety (including OCD, Generalized Anxiety, Phobia, Panic Disorder, etc), depression, grief/loss, codependency, life adjustment/transitions, family of origin issues, and PTSD.
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.
Lucyna Sonek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPsych, MA, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
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.
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.
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.
Kristin Mignogna
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I help clients work through problems related to relational issues, life transitions, chronic pain, PTSD/trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, and borderline traits.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counseling Associate who strives to create a space of trust and safety in which clients can heal, progress, and develop self-compassion. I have experience helping clients with a broad range of presenting concerns, with an educational focus on trauma. I cater my therapeutic techniques to each individual client's needs, drawing most heavily from Person-Centered (approaching clients as equal collaborators, with empathy and non-judgement), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (focusing on thought patterns), and Gestalt Therapy (focusing on emotional and somatic experiences).
I help clients work through problems related to relational issues, life transitions, chronic pain, PTSD/trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, and borderline traits.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counseling Associate who strives to create a space of trust and safety in which clients can heal, progress, and develop self-compassion. I have experience helping clients with a broad range of presenting concerns, with an educational focus on trauma. I cater my therapeutic techniques to each individual client's needs, drawing most heavily from Person-Centered (approaching clients as equal collaborators, with empathy and non-judgement), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (focusing on thought patterns), and Gestalt Therapy (focusing on emotional and somatic experiences).
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.
Shannon South
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, ThD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
These heal depression and anxiety, pain and grief, increase immunity, empower you and build confidence, increase a feeling of wholeness and connection to others and set you free from the past.
I am an integrative therapist focused on healing the split associated with trauma. Trauma can disconnect you from your authenticity and power, creating a misalignment in your mind-body and spirit. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the Inner Counselor are two highly effective approaches used for healing. I see clients with panic disorder and depression, sexual abuse, abusive relationships, codependency and self-esteem issues and more. Bringing health and balance back around areas that have become compulsions (eating, sex, alcohol, relationships, etc.) is another important part of this personal healing journey.
These heal depression and anxiety, pain and grief, increase immunity, empower you and build confidence, increase a feeling of wholeness and connection to others and set you free from the past.
I am an integrative therapist focused on healing the split associated with trauma. Trauma can disconnect you from your authenticity and power, creating a misalignment in your mind-body and spirit. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the Inner Counselor are two highly effective approaches used for healing. I see clients with panic disorder and depression, sexual abuse, abusive relationships, codependency and self-esteem issues and more. Bringing health and balance back around areas that have become compulsions (eating, sex, alcohol, relationships, etc.) is another important part of this personal healing journey.
Jeremy T. Cochran - Cochran Christian Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Your pain is unique to you, only you can understand it.
For any relationship to work you must be able to communicate. Marriage can be tough. I help people communicate and manage their conflict. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, serving North Carolina since 2003. I provide marriage, premarital, individual counseling for adults. I see people with a variety of therapeutic concerns including, but not limited to, trauma, depression, anxiety, & non-supportive spouse.
Your pain is unique to you, only you can understand it.
For any relationship to work you must be able to communicate. Marriage can be tough. I help people communicate and manage their conflict. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, serving North Carolina since 2003. I provide marriage, premarital, individual counseling for adults. I see people with a variety of therapeutic concerns including, but not limited to, trauma, depression, anxiety, & non-supportive spouse.
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.