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Online Therapists

Photo of Guy Morganstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cullowhee, 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 Madison Brightwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cullowhee, 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 Jennifer Beeghly, Psychologist in Cullowhee, NC
Jennifer Beeghly
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I have specialized expertise in providing evidenced-based therapy to treat PTSD, adjustment from military service, relationship dissatisfaction, couple therapy, insomnia, pain, anxiety, somatic concerns, suicidality, and depression.
I am a licensed doctoral level clinical psychologist who provides individual and couple therapy. My approach is individualized based on the specific needs and goals of each client or couple and involves providing warmth and genuineness. My role is to assist you in gaining insight and perspective into the obstacles that are limiting you from living the life that you desire using a supportive and non-judgmental style that will facilitate personal exploration.
I have specialized expertise in providing evidenced-based therapy to treat PTSD, adjustment from military service, relationship dissatisfaction, couple therapy, insomnia, pain, anxiety, somatic concerns, suicidality, and depression.
I am a licensed doctoral level clinical psychologist who provides individual and couple therapy. My approach is individualized based on the specific needs and goals of each client or couple and involves providing warmth and genuineness. My role is to assist you in gaining insight and perspective into the obstacles that are limiting you from living the life that you desire using a supportive and non-judgmental style that will facilitate personal exploration.
(828) 528-3413 View (828) 528-3413
Photo of Carol Greenberger, Counselor in Cullowhee, NC
Carol Greenberger
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
(828) 484-2226 View (828) 484-2226
Photo of David Kaufmann, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Cullowhee, 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 Shannon South, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cullowhee, NC
Shannon South
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, ThD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
These heal depression and anxiety, pain and grief, increase immunity, empower you and build confidence, increase a feeling of wholeness and connection to others and set you free from the past.
I am an integrative therapist focused on healing the split associated with trauma. Trauma can disconnect you from your authenticity and power, creating a misalignment in your mind-body and spirit. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the Inner Counselor are two highly effective approaches used for healing. I see clients with panic disorder and depression, sexual abuse, abusive relationships, codependency and self-esteem issues and more. Bringing health and balance back around areas that have become compulsions (eating, sex, alcohol, relationships, etc.) is another important part of this personal healing journey.
These heal depression and anxiety, pain and grief, increase immunity, empower you and build confidence, increase a feeling of wholeness and connection to others and set you free from the past.
I am an integrative therapist focused on healing the split associated with trauma. Trauma can disconnect you from your authenticity and power, creating a misalignment in your mind-body and spirit. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the Inner Counselor are two highly effective approaches used for healing. I see clients with panic disorder and depression, sexual abuse, abusive relationships, codependency and self-esteem issues and more. Bringing health and balance back around areas that have become compulsions (eating, sex, alcohol, relationships, etc.) is another important part of this personal healing journey.
(828) 351-9963 View (828) 351-9963
Photo of Jennifer Livingstone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cullowhee, NC
Jennifer Livingstone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Arden, NC 28704  (Online Only)
Your life has not turned out how you had planned or hoped. You are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, substance use, or loss. You find yourself trying to solve this discomfort by repeating behaviors that provide temporary relief, but ultimately lead you further away from the kind of life you want, and the kind of person you want to be. Instead of stuck, exhausted, desperate, and dissatisfied, you'd like to move through your life with confidence, compassion, clarity, trust, creativity, curiosity, and centeredness. You'd like to finally resolve the hurt or pain you have been carrying inside you.
Your life has not turned out how you had planned or hoped. You are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, substance use, or loss. You find yourself trying to solve this discomfort by repeating behaviors that provide temporary relief, but ultimately lead you further away from the kind of life you want, and the kind of person you want to be. Instead of stuck, exhausted, desperate, and dissatisfied, you'd like to move through your life with confidence, compassion, clarity, trust, creativity, curiosity, and centeredness. You'd like to finally resolve the hurt or pain you have been carrying inside you.
View
Photo of Forsyth Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cullowhee, NC
Forsyth Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
(828) 367-1010 View (828) 367-1010
Photo of Matt Snyder, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cullowhee, NC
Matt Snyder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LCMHCS, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28792  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
People often think psychotherapy is only for crises. However research shows that therapy is one of the best investments you can make for life satisfaction and growth. In addition to therapy are other modalities that support healing and growth. Some of these holistic wellness tools include exercise, mindfulness, tai chi and yoga. I have a rich background in the application of mindfulness to promote healing and growth, and have experience integrating tools such as Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT, CBT, Hypnosis and EMDR. I also find authenticity and humor essential for healing and use both liberally.
People often think psychotherapy is only for crises. However research shows that therapy is one of the best investments you can make for life satisfaction and growth. In addition to therapy are other modalities that support healing and growth. Some of these holistic wellness tools include exercise, mindfulness, tai chi and yoga. I have a rich background in the application of mindfulness to promote healing and growth, and have experience integrating tools such as Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT, CBT, Hypnosis and EMDR. I also find authenticity and humor essential for healing and use both liberally.
(828) 332-5927 View (828) 332-5927
Photo of Cliff Koos in Cullowhee, NC
Cliff Koos
M Ed
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28806  (Online Only)
I am a trauma-informed, integrative, EMDR therapist. I use ego states and parts work in conjunction with somatic work to help bring ‘online’ the left and right hemispheres of your brain. I am focused on treating the whole person and would like to have an open, honest conversation about what you are looking for and your treatment wants and needs.
I am a trauma-informed, integrative, EMDR therapist. I use ego states and parts work in conjunction with somatic work to help bring ‘online’ the left and right hemispheres of your brain. I am focused on treating the whole person and would like to have an open, honest conversation about what you are looking for and your treatment wants and needs.
(609) 610-6501 View (609) 610-6501
Photo of Leta Bell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cullowhee, NC
Leta Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
Hello, Thank you for visiting my page. I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, depression, unresolved grief, addiction, anxiety, loss, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with my clients, while being supportive and dedicated to their increased well being. My approach to therapy is to be genuine, open, honest, supportive, and curious. I view psychotherapy as a framework for identifying, understanding, and working through problems that cause people to feel stuck, helpless or insecure about their lives. Ultimately, I consider the goal of psychotherapy as empowering others to reach aspired levels of purpose.
Hello, Thank you for visiting my page. I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, depression, unresolved grief, addiction, anxiety, loss, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with my clients, while being supportive and dedicated to their increased well being. My approach to therapy is to be genuine, open, honest, supportive, and curious. I view psychotherapy as a framework for identifying, understanding, and working through problems that cause people to feel stuck, helpless or insecure about their lives. Ultimately, I consider the goal of psychotherapy as empowering others to reach aspired levels of purpose.
(918) 409-0951 View (918) 409-0951
Photo of Debbie Dixon Barney, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Cullowhee, NC
Debbie Dixon Barney
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS-A, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Penrose, NC 28766
Do you ever wake up and wonder, "How did I get here?" or "Why did this have to happen to me?" Maybe you wish your life looked differently but are not sure how to get there. We all have "things" we need to process, but my experience is that we often get “stuck in a rut” with how we approach problems. We need a new perspective or another person to help us process our "stuff” - someone who can ask us questions to help us to see things from a different vantage point or to help us rewrite our stories with hope, purpose, and excitement. My desire is to help people see how the “stuff” in their lives can be used in amazing ways.
Do you ever wake up and wonder, "How did I get here?" or "Why did this have to happen to me?" Maybe you wish your life looked differently but are not sure how to get there. We all have "things" we need to process, but my experience is that we often get “stuck in a rut” with how we approach problems. We need a new perspective or another person to help us process our "stuff” - someone who can ask us questions to help us to see things from a different vantage point or to help us rewrite our stories with hope, purpose, and excitement. My desire is to help people see how the “stuff” in their lives can be used in amazing ways.
(828) 677-2303 View (828) 677-2303
Photo of John S Caprell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cullowhee, NC
John S Caprell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
I view therapy as an ongoing conversation in which the client receives support and feedback that family and friends may not be able to give. I enjoy working with people who are willing to do the work to make peace with questions and challenges that don't always have easy answers. I support individuals who desire assistance with managing a variety of concerns such as anxiety, emotional eating, substance use or depression. Additionally I am EMDR trained. I also offer couples counseling from an attachment perspective for both “traditional” and LGBT+ relationships.
I view therapy as an ongoing conversation in which the client receives support and feedback that family and friends may not be able to give. I enjoy working with people who are willing to do the work to make peace with questions and challenges that don't always have easy answers. I support individuals who desire assistance with managing a variety of concerns such as anxiety, emotional eating, substance use or depression. Additionally I am EMDR trained. I also offer couples counseling from an attachment perspective for both “traditional” and LGBT+ relationships.
(828) 357-4163 View (828) 357-4163
Photo of Mary Monaghan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cullowhee, NC
Mary Monaghan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Stress, anxiety, uncertainty, and fear can feel overwhelming. You may find yourself turning to drugs or alcohol, harmful eating patterns, self-harm, or fall back on other old habits to cope with your emotions. You may be struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or fear. Maybe you are in recovery from addiction or an eating disorder, and are having trouble maintaining your progress. You may be navigating your gender and sexual identify. Or perhaps you are concerned that your teenager is dealing with some of these issues. Whatever you are facing, you are not alone! I am here to provide support, guidance, and encouragement.
Stress, anxiety, uncertainty, and fear can feel overwhelming. You may find yourself turning to drugs or alcohol, harmful eating patterns, self-harm, or fall back on other old habits to cope with your emotions. You may be struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or fear. Maybe you are in recovery from addiction or an eating disorder, and are having trouble maintaining your progress. You may be navigating your gender and sexual identify. Or perhaps you are concerned that your teenager is dealing with some of these issues. Whatever you are facing, you are not alone! I am here to provide support, guidance, and encouragement.
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Photo of Lauren Britton Counseling, Counselor in Cullowhee, NC
Lauren Britton Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
Waitlist for new clients
The decision to attend counseling can be a difficult step, and finding the right therapist can feel daunting! I hope the information here will answer some of your questions. My goal as your therapist will be to walk next to you as you identify and move closer to your personal goals. I am passionate about empowering individuals with the skills to manage challenges and move towards an enhanced sense of fulfillment in life. I approach therapy from the belief that you are the ONLY expert on yourself. Together we can help you tap into and trust your internal wisdom.
The decision to attend counseling can be a difficult step, and finding the right therapist can feel daunting! I hope the information here will answer some of your questions. My goal as your therapist will be to walk next to you as you identify and move closer to your personal goals. I am passionate about empowering individuals with the skills to manage challenges and move towards an enhanced sense of fulfillment in life. I approach therapy from the belief that you are the ONLY expert on yourself. Together we can help you tap into and trust your internal wisdom.
(828) 293-4302 View (828) 293-4302
Photo of Full Circle Community Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cullowhee, NC
Full Circle Community Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, PsyD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Full Circle Counseling and Wellness provides access to high quality, experienced counselors and integrative wellness practitioners who operate in a holistic, community oriented environment. Our counselors have experience with a wide range of emotional and psychological health challenges and seek to make effective treatment strategies affordable and sustainable. We employ the power of relationship for therapeutic benefit and to help foster belonging and connection by surrounding you with resources and support. Whether making art together, weeding gardens, or playing a board game, we hope to provide community oriented opportunities for everyone.
Full Circle Counseling and Wellness provides access to high quality, experienced counselors and integrative wellness practitioners who operate in a holistic, community oriented environment. Our counselors have experience with a wide range of emotional and psychological health challenges and seek to make effective treatment strategies affordable and sustainable. We employ the power of relationship for therapeutic benefit and to help foster belonging and connection by surrounding you with resources and support. Whether making art together, weeding gardens, or playing a board game, we hope to provide community oriented opportunities for everyone.
(828) 483-4232 View (828) 483-4232
Photo of Stephen Barnard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cullowhee, NC
Stephen Barnard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m a licensed social worker with over 17 years of experience in the field. My specialties include working with trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, stress, and compulsive and obsessive behaviors. I use a holistic approach which can incorporate techniques such as mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. I often find that my clients benefit from my experience working with modern neuroscience, which helps us better understand what’s going on inside our brains as we work towards changing our patterns of thinking and behavior.
Hello! I’m a licensed social worker with over 17 years of experience in the field. My specialties include working with trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, stress, and compulsive and obsessive behaviors. I use a holistic approach which can incorporate techniques such as mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. I often find that my clients benefit from my experience working with modern neuroscience, which helps us better understand what’s going on inside our brains as we work towards changing our patterns of thinking and behavior.
(919) 809-6079 View (919) 809-6079
Photo of Katherine Therrell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cullowhee, NC
Katherine Therrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arden, NC 28704
My clients are adults, adolescents, and children who need help coping with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, abuse, educational/employment situations, family dynamics, or other problems impacting their mental health. Though I practice Cognative Behavioral Therapy, I employ a variety of methods including "talk therapy", EMDR, sand therapy, and play therapy, depending upon individual need. I strive to provide unconditional acceptance and support to my clients as they work to achieve their counseling goals. I accept Medicaid and most private insurance.
My clients are adults, adolescents, and children who need help coping with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, abuse, educational/employment situations, family dynamics, or other problems impacting their mental health. Though I practice Cognative Behavioral Therapy, I employ a variety of methods including "talk therapy", EMDR, sand therapy, and play therapy, depending upon individual need. I strive to provide unconditional acceptance and support to my clients as they work to achieve their counseling goals. I accept Medicaid and most private insurance.
(828) 565-1925 View (828) 565-1925
Photo of Susan Lourme, Psychotherapy & Spiritual Coaching, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cullowhee, NC
Susan Lourme, Psychotherapy & Spiritual Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
We humans are wired for contact and connection. Yet sometimes we don't know how to develop the needed connections; relationship building and managing one’s life effectively can thus be both terrifying and exhilarating . Lack of healthy support and resultant traumas leave us depressed, anxious, isolated, or insecure, leading to addictions, obsessions and compulsions, poor communication, relationship difficulties, or general dis-ease in one’s life. Yet healing is possible, and finding a therapist with whom you resonate is crucial.
We humans are wired for contact and connection. Yet sometimes we don't know how to develop the needed connections; relationship building and managing one’s life effectively can thus be both terrifying and exhilarating . Lack of healthy support and resultant traumas leave us depressed, anxious, isolated, or insecure, leading to addictions, obsessions and compulsions, poor communication, relationship difficulties, or general dis-ease in one’s life. Yet healing is possible, and finding a therapist with whom you resonate is crucial.
(510) 858-0676 View (510) 858-0676
Photo of N. Diane Stamey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cullowhee, NC
N. Diane Stamey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT, LFBPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook@Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook@Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
(828) 348-6863 View (828) 348-6863

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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.