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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in North Carolina below.

Online Therapists

Photo of Bradley Vaughn, Counselor in Cherryville, NC
Bradley Vaughn
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
Lastly, I also work with individuals who live with chronic pain.
Being human is hard, emotions are complicative, and our mental health is real and important. I encourage clients to come to me as they are with a desire to make changes to become who they want to be. Together we will explore and challenge our thoughts and beliefs while remaining gentle recognizing that the process can be hard and slow at times. We will set goals and strive to reach them. We will stay open to gain a sense of self-awareness as you move forward on your path of becoming who you desire to be. I work with individuals and couples who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship/sex issues, & LGBTQIA+.
Lastly, I also work with individuals who live with chronic pain.
Being human is hard, emotions are complicative, and our mental health is real and important. I encourage clients to come to me as they are with a desire to make changes to become who they want to be. Together we will explore and challenge our thoughts and beliefs while remaining gentle recognizing that the process can be hard and slow at times. We will set goals and strive to reach them. We will stay open to gain a sense of self-awareness as you move forward on your path of becoming who you desire to be. I work with individuals and couples who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship/sex issues, & LGBTQIA+.
(980) 655-2283 View (980) 655-2283
Photo of Madison Brightwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cherryville, NC
Madison Brightwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger.
I am licensed in four states and can offer Telehealth sessions to clients in CA, NC, WA and OR. Let's face it - life can be difficult. If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or you're struggling to just to feel "normal" again, you've made the right choice by seeking therapy. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to face and overcome life's challenges. You don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I know no two individuals are the same, and I'll tailor our sessions to address the challenges unique to you.
I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger.
I am licensed in four states and can offer Telehealth sessions to clients in CA, NC, WA and OR. Let's face it - life can be difficult. If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or you're struggling to just to feel "normal" again, you've made the right choice by seeking therapy. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to face and overcome life's challenges. You don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I know no two individuals are the same, and I'll tailor our sessions to address the challenges unique to you.
(828) 575-5097 View (828) 575-5097
Photo of Danielle Whittington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherryville, NC
Danielle Whittington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270  (Online Only)
My approach is based on a cognitive behavioral model and is affective in treating individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions and chronic pain.
No matter what you are going through I am here to listen, support you and help you figure it all out. I want to help you alleviate your symptoms as well as find the root of the problem for long term healing. Not only putting on a Band-Aid but healing the wound. I want the therapeutic process to feel helpful and worthwhile. I work with sincerity, compassion and non-judgement. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and trauma.
My approach is based on a cognitive behavioral model and is affective in treating individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions and chronic pain.
No matter what you are going through I am here to listen, support you and help you figure it all out. I want to help you alleviate your symptoms as well as find the root of the problem for long term healing. Not only putting on a Band-Aid but healing the wound. I want the therapeutic process to feel helpful and worthwhile. I work with sincerity, compassion and non-judgement. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and trauma.
(704) 666-9110 View (704) 666-9110
Photo of Shelly Luttman Phelps, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherryville, NC
Shelly Luttman Phelps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
Have you faced struggles with depression and anxiety possibly due to illness, family conflict, loss, work or relationship issues? Has it been difficult for you to cope with and overcome these emotions on your own? If so, you’re not alone. We all need support from time to time, yet many of us may not feel comfortable asking for help or sharing intimate details with friends or family. Within my practice, you will find a safe & nonjudgmental environment where we can explore these obstacles together, help you heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in life.
Have you faced struggles with depression and anxiety possibly due to illness, family conflict, loss, work or relationship issues? Has it been difficult for you to cope with and overcome these emotions on your own? If so, you’re not alone. We all need support from time to time, yet many of us may not feel comfortable asking for help or sharing intimate details with friends or family. Within my practice, you will find a safe & nonjudgmental environment where we can explore these obstacles together, help you heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in life.
(704) 912-0444 View (704) 912-0444
Photo of Nicole Marino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherryville, NC
Nicole Marino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Clients often tell me they feel like something is missing or they know what the problem is but can't resolve it on their own. Most are beginning to recognize unhealthy patterns and can't quite understand the origin or how to change. They are distracting themselves from the real issues with self sabotaging behaviors such as overeating, overworking or excessive alcohol intake. Sometimes they just need help adjusting to life changes such as divorce, illness/health changes, partnering, retirement or becoming a parent. I treat a variety of issues/mental health diagnoses including weight management, binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating and bariatric surgery.
Clients often tell me they feel like something is missing or they know what the problem is but can't resolve it on their own. Most are beginning to recognize unhealthy patterns and can't quite understand the origin or how to change. They are distracting themselves from the real issues with self sabotaging behaviors such as overeating, overworking or excessive alcohol intake. Sometimes they just need help adjusting to life changes such as divorce, illness/health changes, partnering, retirement or becoming a parent. I treat a variety of issues/mental health diagnoses including weight management, binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating and bariatric surgery.
(704) 313-1945 View (704) 313-1945
Photo of Ashley Merchant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherryville, NC
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.
(828) 622-4095 View (828) 622-4095
Photo of Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Cherryville, NC
Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CRC, CCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
We've worked with patients living with chronic pain, chronic diseases (Diabetes, Hypertension, HIV/AIDS, Lupus, Sickle Cell), perinatal mental health concerns, anxiety, depression and those needing career/vocational coaching.
We give so much of ourselves to our jobs, families, friends and more that we often lose ourselves and focus on the daily struggle of just surviving. Becoming overwhelmed or feeling anxious, depressed, scared or even angry, may stop you from reaching your full potential. We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. We have a passion for helping others to find their voice, passion, and to create a healthier reality than their present state. We provide Teletherapy & Coaching services. Therapy services are provided by a Four Therapists & Coaching services by Drs. Watkins, Elbert & Blumell.
We've worked with patients living with chronic pain, chronic diseases (Diabetes, Hypertension, HIV/AIDS, Lupus, Sickle Cell), perinatal mental health concerns, anxiety, depression and those needing career/vocational coaching.
We give so much of ourselves to our jobs, families, friends and more that we often lose ourselves and focus on the daily struggle of just surviving. Becoming overwhelmed or feeling anxious, depressed, scared or even angry, may stop you from reaching your full potential. We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. We have a passion for helping others to find their voice, passion, and to create a healthier reality than their present state. We provide Teletherapy & Coaching services. Therapy services are provided by a Four Therapists & Coaching services by Drs. Watkins, Elbert & Blumell.
(704) 512-0618 View (704) 512-0618
Photo of Savana Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cherryville, 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 Pamilla G Yount in Cherryville, NC
Pamilla G Yount
CMH, CHT, CHI
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
Hypnosis works to stop smoking, weight loss, stress, pain management, restructuring and reinventing your life . It also works for creating a positive new way of life.
Hypnosis works to stop smoking, weight loss, stress, pain management, restructuring and reinventing your life . It also works for creating a positive new way of life.
(828) 962-4336 View (828) 962-4336
Photo of Madalina Ochenatu, Counselor in Cherryville, NC
Madalina Ochenatu
Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
It is frustrating to have tried everything, yet continue to feel in pain, sad, hopeless, stuck in the past, and worrying about the future, yourself, and your relationships. Stress, past trauma, chronic physical & mental illness can make you feel that way, affecting your quality of life (QOL). Imagine though a life where you get a boost of energy and motivation, quiet negative self-talk, cope better with stress, manage physical and emotional pain, build confidence, feel less worried, self-conscious and withdrawn, regain hope and pleasure in things you used to enjoy, live a healthier life style, and accomplish meaningful life goals.
It is frustrating to have tried everything, yet continue to feel in pain, sad, hopeless, stuck in the past, and worrying about the future, yourself, and your relationships. Stress, past trauma, chronic physical & mental illness can make you feel that way, affecting your quality of life (QOL). Imagine though a life where you get a boost of energy and motivation, quiet negative self-talk, cope better with stress, manage physical and emotional pain, build confidence, feel less worried, self-conscious and withdrawn, regain hope and pleasure in things you used to enjoy, live a healthier life style, and accomplish meaningful life goals.
(984) 205-4877 View (984) 205-4877
Photo of David Kaufmann, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Cherryville, NC
David Kaufmann
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
Life is challenging, sometimes it can feel like we aren’t made for the pace that is asked of us in today’s world. The result can feel like disconnect, overwhelm, or even depression and anxiety. Therapy can help. It is clear to me in my work, and in my own life, that once we start paying attention to our pain, we can do something about it. Having a guide in that process can make it simpler and more effective. Everyone is unique and as individuals what we need can take time to uncover and incorporate into our daily lives.
Life is challenging, sometimes it can feel like we aren’t made for the pace that is asked of us in today’s world. The result can feel like disconnect, overwhelm, or even depression and anxiety. Therapy can help. It is clear to me in my work, and in my own life, that once we start paying attention to our pain, we can do something about it. Having a guide in that process can make it simpler and more effective. Everyone is unique and as individuals what we need can take time to uncover and incorporate into our daily lives.
(828) 332-5594 View (828) 332-5594
Photo of Guy Morganstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cherryville, NC
Guy Morganstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I also enjoy working with people dealing with chronic pain and illness, and those with LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
I also enjoy working with people dealing with chronic pain and illness, and those with LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
(828) 337-7549 View (828) 337-7549
Photo of Mary Cottam Keever, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherryville, NC
Mary Cottam Keever
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHC
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27265
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
(336) 916-9181 View (336) 916-9181
Photo of Mark Livak, Counselor in Cherryville, NC
Mark Livak
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I admire anyone who is willing to heal their from their emotional pain and improve their troubled relationships.
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
I admire anyone who is willing to heal their from their emotional pain and improve their troubled relationships.
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
(704) 268-9898 View (704) 268-9898
Photo of Lottie Cooper, LPC Intern in Cherryville, NC
Lottie Cooper
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
Are you feeling stuck and want a breakthrough? I can facilitate releasing your physical, emotional, spiritual pain that is stored in the body. Are you ready to commit to yourself ? I am committed to supporting you in creating a joyful & fulfilling life. I use many modalities to individualize sessions to meet your needs to heal your pain mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Learn sensitive ways of thinking and communicating to support your relationships, create new perspectives, inner wisdom, and self-love, for a more fulfilling life. Learn skills to easily release stress, and explorations to track your progress.
Are you feeling stuck and want a breakthrough? I can facilitate releasing your physical, emotional, spiritual pain that is stored in the body. Are you ready to commit to yourself ? I am committed to supporting you in creating a joyful & fulfilling life. I use many modalities to individualize sessions to meet your needs to heal your pain mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Learn sensitive ways of thinking and communicating to support your relationships, create new perspectives, inner wisdom, and self-love, for a more fulfilling life. Learn skills to easily release stress, and explorations to track your progress.
(828) 944-4105 View (828) 944-4105
Photo of Valarie Anne Snell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherryville, NC
Valarie Anne Snell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
Waitlist for new clients
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
(336) 754-2119 x228 View (336) 754-2119 x228
Photo of Rock of Refuge Counseling Center, Counselor in Cherryville, NC
Rock of Refuge Counseling Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
As the instruments of change, it is a privilege and honor to come alongside each person we support, as they navigate the uncertainty and pain that often comes as a result of our individual lived experiences.
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
As the instruments of change, it is a privilege and honor to come alongside each person we support, as they navigate the uncertainty and pain that often comes as a result of our individual lived experiences.
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
(980) 246-4177 View (980) 246-4177
Photo of The Healing Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherryville, NC
The Healing Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
Pain is motivating, and we offer customized treatment to meet your needs.
Our definition of recovery is working towards our truest and highest self, not just working towards abstinence. We are trauma specialists in active recovery and focus on healing trauma while reinstating a sense of self. We believe that if you do the hard work, and you keep coming back, you will get better. Our therapists are relationship experts in developing the roadmap to other relationships through self.
Pain is motivating, and we offer customized treatment to meet your needs.
Our definition of recovery is working towards our truest and highest self, not just working towards abstinence. We are trauma specialists in active recovery and focus on healing trauma while reinstating a sense of self. We believe that if you do the hard work, and you keep coming back, you will get better. Our therapists are relationship experts in developing the roadmap to other relationships through self.
(704) 275-0441 View (704) 275-0441
Photo of Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Cherryville, NC
Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28206  (Online Only)
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
(919) 823-6654 View (919) 823-6654
Photo of SHINE Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherryville, NC
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
We want to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to living your best life as you want it to be.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
We want to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to living your best life as you want it to be.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
(704) 327-0132 View (704) 327-0132

See more therapy options for Cherryville

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.