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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Charles Gross, LCMHC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
I find it very gratifying to work with both female and male adult clients who feel stuck in life, who have a real desire to discover meaning, and who want to discover or renew their sense of purpose and direction. I also find it rewarding to work with those who desire to break free from the debilitating symptoms of past trauma, and to process the intense pain of grief or personal loss. In addition, I truly enjoy working with couples, as well as parents and teenage children, who feel locked in conflict, but who also genuinely desire to improve their communication patterns and to achieve a positive breakthrough in their relationships.
I find it very gratifying to work with both female and male adult clients who feel stuck in life, who have a real desire to discover meaning, and who want to discover or renew their sense of purpose and direction. I also find it rewarding to work with those who desire to break free from the debilitating symptoms of past trauma, and to process the intense pain of grief or personal loss. In addition, I truly enjoy working with couples, as well as parents and teenage children, who feel locked in conflict, but who also genuinely desire to improve their communication patterns and to achieve a positive breakthrough in their relationships.
(828) 589-4631 View (828) 589-4631
Photo of Michelle McCLAIN - Solutions Of Hickory, MS, LPA, Psychological Associate
Solutions Of Hickory
Psychological Associate, MS, LPA
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
Solutions was founded in 2000. We are a private psychology and counseling practice dedicated to providing exceptional professional services in a warm and comfortable environment. We would love to meet you and help you to overcome your challenges and meet your goals.
Solutions was founded in 2000. We are a private psychology and counseling practice dedicated to providing exceptional professional services in a warm and comfortable environment. We would love to meet you and help you to overcome your challenges and meet your goals.
(828) 604-9136 View (828) 604-9136

Online Therapists

Photo of Karen Maynard, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Maynard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Clemmons, NC 27012
Stress and emotional pain certainly impact employment/school performance, interpersonal relationships, and physical health. Chronic stress/emotional pain can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and misguided coping through substances. It changes your perception; contributes to conflict with family/friends and situations previously managed become overwhelming. If this sounds familiar, Health Matters can help.
Stress and emotional pain certainly impact employment/school performance, interpersonal relationships, and physical health. Chronic stress/emotional pain can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and misguided coping through substances. It changes your perception; contributes to conflict with family/friends and situations previously managed become overwhelming. If this sounds familiar, Health Matters can help.
(336) 515-0738 View (336) 515-0738
Photo of Cody W Chase, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Cody W Chase
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
I can help navigate a new diagnosis, chronic illness, or caregiving.
Life is messy and sometimes we need help making sense of the chaos. I provide a safe and confidential space to be heard, be real, and be understood. I am passionate about helping people navigate the various expected and unexpected happenings in their lives. Whether it is managing the new territory of parenthood, dealing with an unexpected diagnosis, or handling the stresses of everyday life, I strive to help people remain grounded and arm them with healthy coping strategies to get on their desired path.
I can help navigate a new diagnosis, chronic illness, or caregiving.
Life is messy and sometimes we need help making sense of the chaos. I provide a safe and confidential space to be heard, be real, and be understood. I am passionate about helping people navigate the various expected and unexpected happenings in their lives. Whether it is managing the new territory of parenthood, dealing with an unexpected diagnosis, or handling the stresses of everyday life, I strive to help people remain grounded and arm them with healthy coping strategies to get on their desired path.
(704) 327-0314 View (704) 327-0314
Photo of Tara Jubanowsky, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Jubanowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270  (Online Only)
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
(984) 265-8755 View (984) 265-8755
Photo of Valerie Begovich, LCHMC
Valerie Begovich
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCHMC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
Are you looking for a healing therapy that goes to the core of the issue and transforms your connection with body, mind and spirit? I have an extensive background in treating issues related to trauma, chronic physical issues, anxiety, depression and more starting from conception to present. Also, I help professional adults who feel like you aren't fully living, people with chronic health or pain, as well as many mental health professionals. My modalities are holistic and go much deeper than talk therapy or correcting thinking. In addition, I work with businesses & groups to teach simple but powerful brain & body skills.
Are you looking for a healing therapy that goes to the core of the issue and transforms your connection with body, mind and spirit? I have an extensive background in treating issues related to trauma, chronic physical issues, anxiety, depression and more starting from conception to present. Also, I help professional adults who feel like you aren't fully living, people with chronic health or pain, as well as many mental health professionals. My modalities are holistic and go much deeper than talk therapy or correcting thinking. In addition, I work with businesses & groups to teach simple but powerful brain & body skills.
(336) 383-1420 View (336) 383-1420
Photo of Leigh Zick Dongre, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CCS
Leigh Zick Dongre
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
(336) 791-0314 View (336) 791-0314
Photo of Kimberly M Parker - SHINE Counseling, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 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
Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Lavelle Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 22 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 22 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
(828) 360-8820 View (828) 360-8820
Photo of Bonita G Hutchinson - Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC, MEd,  LPC, LCMHC-S, LCAS, SAP
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 Cynthia Vasilas - Rock of Refuge Counseling Center, Counselor
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 Carole F Bombardier, LCSW, MSW, CHT, HCHI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carole F Bombardier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CHT, HCHI
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I specialize in women's issues including pregnancy, infertility, prenatal and postpartum depression/anxiety, weight issues, chronic pain from Fibromyalgia, PMS, and other chronic diseases.
It is my passion to help people help themselves using a holistic approach to address the whole person. Sometimes we get so caught up in the details of life that we have difficulty seeing the big picture. Counseling can help you get more out of life, help you reach your goals and work through challenges and move forward to create and live the life you desire. Stress, anxiety, phobias, depression and life transitions are just some of the issues that I typically address within my practice.
I specialize in women's issues including pregnancy, infertility, prenatal and postpartum depression/anxiety, weight issues, chronic pain from Fibromyalgia, PMS, and other chronic diseases.
It is my passion to help people help themselves using a holistic approach to address the whole person. Sometimes we get so caught up in the details of life that we have difficulty seeing the big picture. Counseling can help you get more out of life, help you reach your goals and work through challenges and move forward to create and live the life you desire. Stress, anxiety, phobias, depression and life transitions are just some of the issues that I typically address within my practice.
(704) 266-6691 View (704) 266-6691
Photo of Sherrá Watkins - Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CRC, CCS
Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CRC, CCS
Verified Verified
3 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 Karen R Liddell, PhD, LCPC, Rev, Pastoral Counselor
Karen R Liddell
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LCPC, Rev
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117  (Online Only)
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
(980) 372-8371 View (980) 372-8371
Photo of Kristin Kirk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Kirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
(704) 237-0421 View (704) 237-0421
Photo of Gene Haas, MA, LPA, HSP, Psychological Associate
Gene Haas
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
Clients with chronic illness, or pain, or PTSD work well with my approach to therapy including the use of EMDR.
I work best with an individual client, couple, or the family of a child or adolescent that recognizes that what they have been trying to do to deal with their life or behavioral issues is not working well, and they are now open to finding understanding, and trying new approaches to old, or recently acute problems. My experience has been that most couples really want to save their marriage or other family relationships and will do the work necessary to build a new and loving relationship.
Clients with chronic illness, or pain, or PTSD work well with my approach to therapy including the use of EMDR.
I work best with an individual client, couple, or the family of a child or adolescent that recognizes that what they have been trying to do to deal with their life or behavioral issues is not working well, and they are now open to finding understanding, and trying new approaches to old, or recently acute problems. My experience has been that most couples really want to save their marriage or other family relationships and will do the work necessary to build a new and loving relationship.
(704) 326-1197 View (704) 326-1197
Photo of Michelle McKinzie, LCSW, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle McKinzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview, NC 28730  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer online therapy for adolescents and adults experiencing mood issues and problems adjusting to chronic illnesses who live anywhere in NC, TN, and FL.
Have you experienced a life-altering medical condition? Are you experiencing difficulties regulating your mood, including depression and anxiety? Let me help you find ways to manage your emotions and your health more effectively! I would love to help you on a journey to finding more peace and happiness.
I offer online therapy for adolescents and adults experiencing mood issues and problems adjusting to chronic illnesses who live anywhere in NC, TN, and FL.
Have you experienced a life-altering medical condition? Are you experiencing difficulties regulating your mood, including depression and anxiety? Let me help you find ways to manage your emotions and your health more effectively! I would love to help you on a journey to finding more peace and happiness.
(828) 475-5258 View (828) 475-5258
Photo of Myriam Rabaste, LCMHC, EMDR, II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Myriam Rabaste
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, EMDR, II
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
(704) 870-2290 View (704) 870-2290
Photo of Tara Jubanowsky, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Jubanowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270  (Online Only)
I received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Social Psychology from Lehigh University in 2003 and graduated from Columbia University in 2007 with a Master of Science in Social Work. I specialize in the areas of health/ illness, medical education, medical/social trauma, chronic pain/disability, grief/bereavement, and loss.
I received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Social Psychology from Lehigh University in 2003 and graduated from Columbia University in 2007 with a Master of Science in Social Work. I specialize in the areas of health/ illness, medical education, medical/social trauma, chronic pain/disability, grief/bereavement, and loss.
(704) 486-5283 View (704) 486-5283
Photo of Grace Selvaggi, LCSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Grace Selvaggi
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28117
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

See more therapy options for Conover

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.