Photo of Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCMHC-S, LCAS, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
(980) 338-4035 View (980) 338-4035
Photo of Grace Selvaggi, Pre-Licensed Professional in Charlotte, NC
Grace Selvaggi
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
Grace has experience with victims of domestic violence, mental illness, homelessness, and substance abuse.
Grace Selvaggi is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist who has been practicing since 2020 in North Carolina. Grace is a Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) in North Carolina with more than five years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and childhood/adolescent behavioral issues. She graduated with a Master in Clinical Social Work (MSW) degree, an Integrated Behavioral Health (IBH) specialization, Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BSW) degree, and a psychology minor from the University of Kentucky.
Grace has experience with victims of domestic violence, mental illness, homelessness, and substance abuse.
Grace Selvaggi is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist who has been practicing since 2020 in North Carolina. Grace is a Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) in North Carolina with more than five years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and childhood/adolescent behavioral issues. She graduated with a Master in Clinical Social Work (MSW) degree, an Integrated Behavioral Health (IBH) specialization, Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BSW) degree, and a psychology minor from the University of Kentucky.
(980) 372-4605 View (980) 372-4605
Photo of Palmetto Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Palmetto Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201
*Depression *Anxiety *Panic Attacks *Grief & Loss *ADHD *Autism Spectrum Disorders *Anger Management *Self-Esteem *Bipolar Disorder *Addiction *Impulse-Control Disorders *Chronic Pain *Child / Adolescent Problems *Parent-Child Relational Problems *Couples / Marital Therapy *Family Conflict *Stress Management *Occupational Problems *Substance Abuse.
With several licensed counselors to choose from, Palmetto Counseling proudly serves the communities of Rock Hill, Fort Mill, and surrounding Charlotte areas. We provide treatment to children, adolescents, adults, seniors, couples, and families. For the convenience of our clients, Evening & Saturday Appointments are available. Call 803-329-9639 for more information.
*Depression *Anxiety *Panic Attacks *Grief & Loss *ADHD *Autism Spectrum Disorders *Anger Management *Self-Esteem *Bipolar Disorder *Addiction *Impulse-Control Disorders *Chronic Pain *Child / Adolescent Problems *Parent-Child Relational Problems *Couples / Marital Therapy *Family Conflict *Stress Management *Occupational Problems *Substance Abuse.
With several licensed counselors to choose from, Palmetto Counseling proudly serves the communities of Rock Hill, Fort Mill, and surrounding Charlotte areas. We provide treatment to children, adolescents, adults, seniors, couples, and families. For the convenience of our clients, Evening & Saturday Appointments are available. Call 803-329-9639 for more information.
(803) 666-8150 View (803) 666-8150
Photo of Tita Johnson, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Tita Johnson
Counselor, LCMHC, LPC/S, MAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
(843) 428-6596 View (843) 428-6596
Photo of P & G Clinical Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlotte, NC
P & G Clinical Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226  (Online Only)
We are accepting new patients! Hablamos y ofrecemos servicios en Español. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural professional who has worked with abused children, adolescents, adults and their families who have experienced trauma. I have also worked with individuals with other mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, impulse control, addiction disorders, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.).
We are accepting new patients! Hablamos y ofrecemos servicios en Español. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural professional who has worked with abused children, adolescents, adults and their families who have experienced trauma. I have also worked with individuals with other mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, impulse control, addiction disorders, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.).
(704) 207-0995 View (704) 207-0995
Photo of Jenny Caldwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Jenny Caldwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I am passionate about working with individuals and families. I believe the client/ therapist relationship is a critical component of the therapeutic process and place emphasis on maintaining a nonjudgmental, caring, and safe environment for my clients. My compassion and use of evidence-based research models provide a space for me to empower and support clients. I believe that the therapy process is collaborative, both therapist and client work together to develop strategies and tools to help clients transition through stressful times. Using both long and short-term therapy approaches, I create an individual approach for clients.
I am passionate about working with individuals and families. I believe the client/ therapist relationship is a critical component of the therapeutic process and place emphasis on maintaining a nonjudgmental, caring, and safe environment for my clients. My compassion and use of evidence-based research models provide a space for me to empower and support clients. I believe that the therapy process is collaborative, both therapist and client work together to develop strategies and tools to help clients transition through stressful times. Using both long and short-term therapy approaches, I create an individual approach for clients.
(980) 326-4831 View (980) 326-4831
Photo of Andrea Exley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Andrea Exley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Waitlist for new clients
I am not afraid of hearing the hard truths that you don't share with others. I find it an honor and a privilege to come along side someone who trusts me enough to share their life, the good and the bad. I have supported people who have experienced things that they believe others think to be unreal, people who believe there is no reason to keep living, people who partake in activities they know are not good for them, people who struggle to have healthy relationships, and people that have been living in darkness. I want to help you break away from that darkness. I want to provide a space that fosters security, hope, and healing.
I am not afraid of hearing the hard truths that you don't share with others. I find it an honor and a privilege to come along side someone who trusts me enough to share their life, the good and the bad. I have supported people who have experienced things that they believe others think to be unreal, people who believe there is no reason to keep living, people who partake in activities they know are not good for them, people who struggle to have healthy relationships, and people that have been living in darkness. I want to help you break away from that darkness. I want to provide a space that fosters security, hope, and healing.
(704) 396-8736 View (704) 396-8736
Photo of Alli Becker, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Alli Becker
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you could wake up every morning feeling happy, fulfilled, and free of any consuming negative thoughts? If your answer is yes, you are in the right place. Whether you are struggling personally or in your relationships (of any sort: romantic, parent/child, etc.) we can help you. With over 15 years of experience with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples, we are able to provide world class treatment for a variety of mental health concerns. Take the step to end your suffering today. It is time for you to learn how to live the life you deserve.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you could wake up every morning feeling happy, fulfilled, and free of any consuming negative thoughts? If your answer is yes, you are in the right place. Whether you are struggling personally or in your relationships (of any sort: romantic, parent/child, etc.) we can help you. With over 15 years of experience with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples, we are able to provide world class treatment for a variety of mental health concerns. Take the step to end your suffering today. It is time for you to learn how to live the life you deserve.
(704) 869-2937 View (704) 869-2937
Photo of Advene Health Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Advene Health Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270
My idea as a psychotherapist is to provide safe, comfortable & judgment-free environment for clients to work through issues. My role as a psychotherapist is to respect the goals that my clients come in with, and support the process of working toward these goals. I believe Psychotherapy can enhance one's self-awareness and the ability to recognize in one's own self-defeating and self-sabotaging patterns, and to change these patterns.
My idea as a psychotherapist is to provide safe, comfortable & judgment-free environment for clients to work through issues. My role as a psychotherapist is to respect the goals that my clients come in with, and support the process of working toward these goals. I believe Psychotherapy can enhance one's self-awareness and the ability to recognize in one's own self-defeating and self-sabotaging patterns, and to change these patterns.
(980) 247-4144 View (980) 247-4144
Photo of Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCASA, CEO
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28217
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
(336) 502-8218 View (336) 502-8218
Photo of Dr. Sarah Stuchell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Dr. Sarah Stuchell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
Although you may feel alone in your problem, I guarantee that you are not, and will help you develop individual and relationship skills to overcome your problem(s). I am an avid proponent of examining the systemic nature of problems, which includes taking inventory of the mental, physical, spiritual, societal, and relational aspects that may be effecting you. I will help you deconstruct your life and experiences, and help you reconstruct a healthy psychological paradigm that heals you and brings meaning and purpose to your life. You will ultimately feel more alive, genuine, and hopeful about yourself and your future.
Although you may feel alone in your problem, I guarantee that you are not, and will help you develop individual and relationship skills to overcome your problem(s). I am an avid proponent of examining the systemic nature of problems, which includes taking inventory of the mental, physical, spiritual, societal, and relational aspects that may be effecting you. I will help you deconstruct your life and experiences, and help you reconstruct a healthy psychological paradigm that heals you and brings meaning and purpose to your life. You will ultimately feel more alive, genuine, and hopeful about yourself and your future.
(949) 337-1360 View (949) 337-1360
Photo of Nicole Anzalone, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Nicole Anzalone
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28273  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am licensed in both NY, NC, and SC w/ 12 yrs of professional work experience. I have worked in a variety of settings such as school settings, substance abuse facilities, outpatient facilities, inpatient/hospital behavioral health units, crisis call centers, & private practice settings. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, as well as a variety of other life stressors. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear or judgement.
Welcome! I am licensed in both NY, NC, and SC w/ 12 yrs of professional work experience. I have worked in a variety of settings such as school settings, substance abuse facilities, outpatient facilities, inpatient/hospital behavioral health units, crisis call centers, & private practice settings. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, as well as a variety of other life stressors. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear or judgement.
(845) 583-0674 View (845) 583-0674
Photo of Nicole Moriarty: Trauma Resolution Therapy, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Nicole Moriarty: Trauma Resolution Therapy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any moment in our lives that we were unsafe in some way. Big or small, single events or years-long patterns-if we aren't able to process it, we store it.
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any moment in our lives that we were unsafe in some way. Big or small, single events or years-long patterns-if we aren't able to process it, we store it.
(803) 918-5462 View (803) 918-5462
Photo of Nova Lux Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Nova Lux Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MD, PhD, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28246
Nova Lux Counseling works with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from traditional therapy from depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, we offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of the clients' individual needs.
Nova Lux Counseling works with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from traditional therapy from depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, we offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of the clients' individual needs.
(203) 539-6250 View (203) 539-6250
Photo of Steven Riley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Steven Riley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201  (Online Only)
Everyone faces challenges in life. Sometimes we are in need of answers and guidance. Children, teens, adults and couples all face these challenges. You have all the answers to face these challenges. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina, and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. I am here to guide you through the process of making each step to success and happiness. Couples, my wife Latisha Riley who is also a fully licensed therapist and I offer a unique "Quad session" where we both are available during the session providing a customized experience. Please contact us for details.
Everyone faces challenges in life. Sometimes we are in need of answers and guidance. Children, teens, adults and couples all face these challenges. You have all the answers to face these challenges. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina, and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. I am here to guide you through the process of making each step to success and happiness. Couples, my wife Latisha Riley who is also a fully licensed therapist and I offer a unique "Quad session" where we both are available during the session providing a customized experience. Please contact us for details.
(919) 372-4479 View (919) 372-4479
Photo of Strengthening Foundations Child & Family Cnslng, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Strengthening Foundations Child & Family Cnslng
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28206  (Online Only)
Facing life's challenges and transitions should not be done alone. When you encounter issues arising from lifecycle changes, relational turmoil or any other challenges that invoke a crisis or grief, it is important to have genuine and empathetic support to guide you without passing judgment. As a spouse of a retired veteran, I have over 20 years of experience adapting to the lifestyle challenges that the military community encounters. I have helped many families successfully cope with the military lifestyle, relational struggles and raise special children.
Facing life's challenges and transitions should not be done alone. When you encounter issues arising from lifecycle changes, relational turmoil or any other challenges that invoke a crisis or grief, it is important to have genuine and empathetic support to guide you without passing judgment. As a spouse of a retired veteran, I have over 20 years of experience adapting to the lifestyle challenges that the military community encounters. I have helped many families successfully cope with the military lifestyle, relational struggles and raise special children.
(910) 672-6766 View (910) 672-6766
Photo of Marie Leskauskas, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Marie Leskauskas
Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201
Each person is a unique individual whose life and experience is different from anyone else, and deserves to be addressed with unconditional positive regard for themselves and their circumstances. This is why I place an emphasis on authenticity and the importance of understanding each person as a whole, focusing on healing through the integration of mental, physical, and spiritual health. As a therapist, I will involve strategies and techniques including CBT, sandtray and sandplay, motivational interviewing, addressing the mind and body connection, and the incorporation of ongoing psychoeducation.
Each person is a unique individual whose life and experience is different from anyone else, and deserves to be addressed with unconditional positive regard for themselves and their circumstances. This is why I place an emphasis on authenticity and the importance of understanding each person as a whole, focusing on healing through the integration of mental, physical, and spiritual health. As a therapist, I will involve strategies and techniques including CBT, sandtray and sandplay, motivational interviewing, addressing the mind and body connection, and the incorporation of ongoing psychoeducation.
(980) 575-5082 View (980) 575-5082
Photo of Lisette Deese, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Lisette Deese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CSI, CCTP, CDBT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a young child, Lisette knew that she was called to "help others." Therefore, she decided to pursue something in the human service field. She graduated in 2004, with her BS in psychology from University of North Carolina at Pembroke. In 2009, she received her MSW from Fayetteville State University. Lisette believes that "Understanding the human spirit is the most important aspect to helping others." Building a therapeutic relationship with your client is a must! Empowerment is a major role that both client and therapist must display. If you believe in yourself, others will believe in you as well. That energy is undeniable!
As a young child, Lisette knew that she was called to "help others." Therefore, she decided to pursue something in the human service field. She graduated in 2004, with her BS in psychology from University of North Carolina at Pembroke. In 2009, she received her MSW from Fayetteville State University. Lisette believes that "Understanding the human spirit is the most important aspect to helping others." Building a therapeutic relationship with your client is a must! Empowerment is a major role that both client and therapist must display. If you believe in yourself, others will believe in you as well. That energy is undeniable!
(919) 666-2045 View (919) 666-2045

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of La Vida Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlotte, NC
La Vida Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Our team of therapists are ready to help for individual or couples counseling! We offer in person and virtual session! Specialties include but not limited to: trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems and transitions into college. Please visit our website at www.lavidacounseling.com for more details about our therapists and services we offer. We offer counseling services and Immigration Evaluations to clients from age 5 years-Adult and video sessions and in person sessions. ¡Se habla Español!
Our team of therapists are ready to help for individual or couples counseling! We offer in person and virtual session! Specialties include but not limited to: trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems and transitions into college. Please visit our website at www.lavidacounseling.com for more details about our therapists and services we offer. We offer counseling services and Immigration Evaluations to clients from age 5 years-Adult and video sessions and in person sessions. ¡Se habla Español!
(704) 935-4208 View (704) 935-4208

Online Therapists

Photo of The International Center for Wellness PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
The International Center for Wellness PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
(704) 327-5647 x101 View (704) 327-5647 x101
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.