Photo of Kathy Murray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham County, NC
Kathy Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, Somatic
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
As a Somatic Therapist, I believe that everyone has within them an inner wisdom and inner healing power that is their natural birthright. My role is to help create the environment for that inner genius to arise and find itself. When this is done, new meaning, purpose and life narratives can be discovered and lived out. I have wide experience assisting individuals in managing a variety of behavioral and emotional concerns including trauma, chronic pain and health issues, difficult life transitions, weight management, anxiety, depression, and stress management.
As a Somatic Therapist, I believe that everyone has within them an inner wisdom and inner healing power that is their natural birthright. My role is to help create the environment for that inner genius to arise and find itself. When this is done, new meaning, purpose and life narratives can be discovered and lived out. I have wide experience assisting individuals in managing a variety of behavioral and emotional concerns including trauma, chronic pain and health issues, difficult life transitions, weight management, anxiety, depression, and stress management.
(919) 276-8754 View (919) 276-8754
Photo of Azleena Salleh Azhar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham County, NC
Azleena Salleh Azhar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Waitlist for new clients
Are you trapped in a relationship with a narcissistic partner? Are you facing major life transitions, like coping with chronic illness, grief, and loss? Do you have a child or teen who is constantly struggling at home and at school? You are taking the right step by getting help! It took a lot of courage to overcome the stigma and reach this point. You don't have to walk alone. By tackling the issues together we can overcome the barriers of honor and shame.
Are you trapped in a relationship with a narcissistic partner? Are you facing major life transitions, like coping with chronic illness, grief, and loss? Do you have a child or teen who is constantly struggling at home and at school? You are taking the right step by getting help! It took a lot of courage to overcome the stigma and reach this point. You don't have to walk alone. By tackling the issues together we can overcome the barriers of honor and shame.
(919) 298-8107 View (919) 298-8107
Photo of Nancy K Holliman, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Durham County, NC
Nancy K Holliman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701
Waitlist for new clients
Personal issues such as anxiety, difficulties with food, a new medical diagnosis, depression, or dealing with a chronic illness or condition may be making you feel like life is one big struggle. Whether you have these sorts of problems or other concerns that are making your life hard or even unbearable, change is always possible if you are willing to work and you have the support you need. I offer that support. I have 4 years of experience serving adolescents and adults with eating disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, depression, trauma, PTSD, and mood disorders. I would be honored to work with you around whatever difficulties you may be facing. Together we will discover new perspectives and skills that will enable you to develop deeper awareness so that you can handle whatever life brings you and thrive.
Personal issues such as anxiety, difficulties with food, a new medical diagnosis, depression, or dealing with a chronic illness or condition may be making you feel like life is one big struggle. Whether you have these sorts of problems or other concerns that are making your life hard or even unbearable, change is always possible if you are willing to work and you have the support you need. I offer that support. I have 4 years of experience serving adolescents and adults with eating disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, depression, trauma, PTSD, and mood disorders. I would be honored to work with you around whatever difficulties you may be facing. Together we will discover new perspectives and skills that will enable you to develop deeper awareness so that you can handle whatever life brings you and thrive.
(984) 205-4658 View (984) 205-4658
Photo of Krista Nordgren, Counselor in Durham County, NC
Krista Nordgren
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
If conflict, anxiety, depression or pain is dominating your life, therapy can help you step in into a life of more ease and confidence.
Relationships are paramount to our health. The way we relate to ourselves, to our loved ones, and to our challenges determines the the flow of our lives. In a couple, when we struggle with communication, tension, conflict, or disconnection, we can feel small, angry, or out of control. As individuals, when we are not in authentic relationship with ourselves, it can feel like we aren't living the lives we were meant to have.
If conflict, anxiety, depression or pain is dominating your life, therapy can help you step in into a life of more ease and confidence.
Relationships are paramount to our health. The way we relate to ourselves, to our loved ones, and to our challenges determines the the flow of our lives. In a couple, when we struggle with communication, tension, conflict, or disconnection, we can feel small, angry, or out of control. As individuals, when we are not in authentic relationship with ourselves, it can feel like we aren't living the lives we were meant to have.
(919) 504-5194 x108 View (919) 504-5194 x108
Photo of Janice Geller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Durham County, NC
Janice Geller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMBT, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27712
I have an engaged, body-mind relational approach, that I call Integrative Counseling. This approach builds on your strengths, and helps you cultivate self-awareness and find new perspectives, leading to a more satisfying and fulfilling life. Integrative counseling includes breathing and mindfulness practices, the development of body awareness, the experience of therapeutic touch, as well as verbal and emotional processing, depending on your needs. As a caring, well trained professional I help people to overcome anxiety, depression, relationship problems, physical pain, job stress, addiction, and life transitions in healthy, nurturing ways.
I have an engaged, body-mind relational approach, that I call Integrative Counseling. This approach builds on your strengths, and helps you cultivate self-awareness and find new perspectives, leading to a more satisfying and fulfilling life. Integrative counseling includes breathing and mindfulness practices, the development of body awareness, the experience of therapeutic touch, as well as verbal and emotional processing, depending on your needs. As a caring, well trained professional I help people to overcome anxiety, depression, relationship problems, physical pain, job stress, addiction, and life transitions in healthy, nurturing ways.
(919) 701-5373 View (919) 701-5373
Photo of Shivani L. Chudasama, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham County, NC
Shivani L. Chudasama
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, RYT-500
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27704  (Online Only)
I currently have a waitlist. I am a clinical social worker and registered yoga teacher who empowers people using the guiding principles of empathy, curiosity, cultural humility, and collaboration. I take an integrative, somatic, and highly relational approach and work to understand how the intersection of your unique experiences impact today. I remain committed to working with people as they face a range of experiences, including multicultural concerns, oppression, identity exploration, trauma, anxiety, depression, queer/LGB+ concerns, trans and gender identity related concerns, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and grief.
I currently have a waitlist. I am a clinical social worker and registered yoga teacher who empowers people using the guiding principles of empathy, curiosity, cultural humility, and collaboration. I take an integrative, somatic, and highly relational approach and work to understand how the intersection of your unique experiences impact today. I remain committed to working with people as they face a range of experiences, including multicultural concerns, oppression, identity exploration, trauma, anxiety, depression, queer/LGB+ concerns, trans and gender identity related concerns, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and grief.
(919) 759-5711 View (919) 759-5711
Photo of Alysann Whitley Price, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham County, NC
Alysann Whitley Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
(919) 925-4566 View (919) 925-4566
Photo of Amick Boone, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Durham County, NC
Amick Boone
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Offering multiple discounted sliding scale slots to those who can't afford my rate. Educated, licensed, and in clinical practice since 2018 in the Bay Area, CA, I'm a licensed therapist (LMFTA) who recently moved my practice to Durham. Primarily trained in Gestalt therapy, as an integral therapist I also pull from IFS, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, and other somatic, experiential, mindfulness-based modalities. Anxiety, depression, chronic illness, infertility, loss, explorations of identity, communication issues, deepening intimacy, and building trust are a few of the challenges that bring clients to me.
Offering multiple discounted sliding scale slots to those who can't afford my rate. Educated, licensed, and in clinical practice since 2018 in the Bay Area, CA, I'm a licensed therapist (LMFTA) who recently moved my practice to Durham. Primarily trained in Gestalt therapy, as an integral therapist I also pull from IFS, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, and other somatic, experiential, mindfulness-based modalities. Anxiety, depression, chronic illness, infertility, loss, explorations of identity, communication issues, deepening intimacy, and building trust are a few of the challenges that bring clients to me.
(919) 666-6798 View (919) 666-6798
Photo of Sarah Harrocks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham County, NC
Sarah Harrocks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMBT
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
We are all journeying through life. At times the path you are traveling becomes unclear and may require action to move the debris blocking your way. Debris may show up as depression, anxiety, self-doubt, or even fear. There may also have been something along your journey which caused you great pain that could be hindering your ability to move forward in life. Counseling can support you with clearing the way so that you may see yourself and your path more clearly, allowing you to live the life you most desire.
We are all journeying through life. At times the path you are traveling becomes unclear and may require action to move the debris blocking your way. Debris may show up as depression, anxiety, self-doubt, or even fear. There may also have been something along your journey which caused you great pain that could be hindering your ability to move forward in life. Counseling can support you with clearing the way so that you may see yourself and your path more clearly, allowing you to live the life you most desire.
(919) 858-6073 View (919) 858-6073
Photo of Becca Leifer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Durham County, NC
Becca Leifer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
I support folx struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, navigating neurodiversities, unpack systemic adversities, and sense of self.
To me, therapy isn’t a workbook or a road map that’s the same for everyone. Therapy is about meeting you where you are. I want to learn about your unique strengths, values, goals, and struggles. I strive to support you in navigating your struggles, and in making choices in alignment with your values as you work toward your goals. I am curious about what brings you fulfillment and exploring avenues to infuse joy into your days, with a strength-based, benefit-enhancement approach. I view therapy as a collaborative process, know that you are the expert on your own experience, and meet each client as the individual you are.
I support folx struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, navigating neurodiversities, unpack systemic adversities, and sense of self.
To me, therapy isn’t a workbook or a road map that’s the same for everyone. Therapy is about meeting you where you are. I want to learn about your unique strengths, values, goals, and struggles. I strive to support you in navigating your struggles, and in making choices in alignment with your values as you work toward your goals. I am curious about what brings you fulfillment and exploring avenues to infuse joy into your days, with a strength-based, benefit-enhancement approach. I view therapy as a collaborative process, know that you are the expert on your own experience, and meet each client as the individual you are.
(919) 823-7599 View (919) 823-7599
Photo of Jennifer C Franklin, Psychologist in Durham County, NC
Jennifer C Franklin
Psychologist, PhD, MACP
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705
Waitlist for new clients
I work best with adult individuals and couples who wish to address any of the following: anxiety; mind-body issues like IBS, chronic pain, back pain, etc; stress and trauma; relationship difficulties, life transitions, cultural differences, or spiritual issues; and depression. Therapy is individualized, determined by each client's personal needs, interests, and goals. My aim is to support and guide each person through his or her own unique journey towards greater health, wellness, wholeness, peace, satisfaction, and fulfillment. My work is guided by a holistic, mindfulness-based approach, resulting in gradual yet sustainable change.
I work best with adult individuals and couples who wish to address any of the following: anxiety; mind-body issues like IBS, chronic pain, back pain, etc; stress and trauma; relationship difficulties, life transitions, cultural differences, or spiritual issues; and depression. Therapy is individualized, determined by each client's personal needs, interests, and goals. My aim is to support and guide each person through his or her own unique journey towards greater health, wellness, wholeness, peace, satisfaction, and fulfillment. My work is guided by a holistic, mindfulness-based approach, resulting in gradual yet sustainable change.
(310) 421-2756 View (310) 421-2756
Photo of Meg Barry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Durham County, NC
Meg Barry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27712
Waitlist for new clients
8-9 Month Waitlist-You matter and you are enough! I am a trauma therapist whose approach is integrative and honors each client’s unique emotional system. I believe that creating safety in client-counselor relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. I greet each client with warmth, understanding, and non-judgement, drawing on each client’s strength and inner wisdom to bring about change in their lives. I am passionate about working with adults with a history of trauma, attachment trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and auto-immune/chronic pain.
8-9 Month Waitlist-You matter and you are enough! I am a trauma therapist whose approach is integrative and honors each client’s unique emotional system. I believe that creating safety in client-counselor relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. I greet each client with warmth, understanding, and non-judgement, drawing on each client’s strength and inner wisdom to bring about change in their lives. I am passionate about working with adults with a history of trauma, attachment trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and auto-immune/chronic pain.
(919) 726-0565 View (919) 726-0565
Photo of Tamara Share, Psychologist in Durham County, NC
Tamara Share
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Working with adults and adolescents in individual, couples, and group counseling, Tamara considers herself a generalist in the field of psychology. Her areas of expertise include developmental concerns, anxiety and stress management, career and life planning, cultural identities, dissertation/thesis coaching, ADHD and LD coaching and testing, and health psychology (e.g. eating and weight concerns, mind-body awareness, and dealing with chronic illness). She also provides organizational consultation and is a trained facilitator in outdoor education. Recent presentations have included: 1) sexual intimacy, 2) wellness coaching, 3) exploring gender norms, and 4) the treatment of disordered eating & other psychosomatic illnesses.
Working with adults and adolescents in individual, couples, and group counseling, Tamara considers herself a generalist in the field of psychology. Her areas of expertise include developmental concerns, anxiety and stress management, career and life planning, cultural identities, dissertation/thesis coaching, ADHD and LD coaching and testing, and health psychology (e.g. eating and weight concerns, mind-body awareness, and dealing with chronic illness). She also provides organizational consultation and is a trained facilitator in outdoor education. Recent presentations have included: 1) sexual intimacy, 2) wellness coaching, 3) exploring gender norms, and 4) the treatment of disordered eating & other psychosomatic illnesses.
(919) 666-3842 View (919) 666-3842
Photo of Sacred Listener, Counselor in Durham County, NC
Sacred Listener
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
I also have experience as a hospital chaplain and am honored to help those dealing with chronic illness, grief, and loss.
Are you a generally healthy person, looking for guidance in how to live your life in the healthiest and happiest way? Whether your challenges are in the realm of finances, relationships, work satisfaction, anxiety, or depression, transpersonal counseling can help you! If you are looking for a therapist that can include your spiritual beliefs and include those in your treatment, and if you enjoy varied approaches to mental health and happiness such as art, yoga, and meditation, I might be the therapist for you!
I also have experience as a hospital chaplain and am honored to help those dealing with chronic illness, grief, and loss.
Are you a generally healthy person, looking for guidance in how to live your life in the healthiest and happiest way? Whether your challenges are in the realm of finances, relationships, work satisfaction, anxiety, or depression, transpersonal counseling can help you! If you are looking for a therapist that can include your spiritual beliefs and include those in your treatment, and if you enjoy varied approaches to mental health and happiness such as art, yoga, and meditation, I might be the therapist for you!
(919) 335-6734 View (919) 335-6734
Photo of Shelly Luttman Phelps, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham County, NC
Shelly Luttman Phelps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
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 Victoria Michelle Welch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham County, NC
Victoria Michelle Welch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPTT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27712
I know what it's like to search for a therapist who understands attachment issues, chronic illness and caregiver stress and for ones who can incorporate faith in their practice.
Parenting a child with special needs or an adopted child who has experienced trauma requires extraordinary strength. Care-giving for aging parents presents similar demands that intensify our need for a listening ear and access to resources. If you are in the midst of the tension between managing a child or parent's medical and emotional needs while equipping him/her to independently provide as much self-care as possible, you could use some serious encouragement. The internal conflict that arises as you meet -- and fail to meet -- the parenting/care-giving challenge(s) is an experience not meant to be faced alone.
I know what it's like to search for a therapist who understands attachment issues, chronic illness and caregiver stress and for ones who can incorporate faith in their practice.
Parenting a child with special needs or an adopted child who has experienced trauma requires extraordinary strength. Care-giving for aging parents presents similar demands that intensify our need for a listening ear and access to resources. If you are in the midst of the tension between managing a child or parent's medical and emotional needs while equipping him/her to independently provide as much self-care as possible, you could use some serious encouragement. The internal conflict that arises as you meet -- and fail to meet -- the parenting/care-giving challenge(s) is an experience not meant to be faced alone.
(919) 897-7508 View (919) 897-7508
Photo of Alysa Calestini, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Durham County, NC
Alysa Calestini
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA , LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701
I have a passion for working with college students as well as individuals coping with autoimmune disorders, cancer, chronic illness/pain, and grief.
Hello! It can be really hard to be human- especially in our current world. I commend you for seeking support and I'm glad that you are here. Together, we can explore what has been showing up for you and find a path to greater awareness, meaning, and empowerment. It is my desire to create a safe environment for any and all identities, where you can share your story and experiences, process life transitions, and find support. My approach is compassionate and collaborative. I believe in the power of authentic human connection and a non-judgmental space to allow for you to access growth.
I have a passion for working with college students as well as individuals coping with autoimmune disorders, cancer, chronic illness/pain, and grief.
Hello! It can be really hard to be human- especially in our current world. I commend you for seeking support and I'm glad that you are here. Together, we can explore what has been showing up for you and find a path to greater awareness, meaning, and empowerment. It is my desire to create a safe environment for any and all identities, where you can share your story and experiences, process life transitions, and find support. My approach is compassionate and collaborative. I believe in the power of authentic human connection and a non-judgmental space to allow for you to access growth.
View
Photo of Maruka Rivers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham County, NC
Maruka Rivers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, CDBT
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705  (Online Only)
Greetings, I am sure our paths have not crossed by accident. I'm curious to see where this journey will lead .Maybe right now you're deep in your feelings, feeling sad or numb, wishing to feel JOY again... or just feel anything but this. Maybe you've experienced trauma and it plays over and over again, the pain or fear won't go away. Maybe you're struggling with relationships, situationships, friendships, or family connections. Maybe you're worried all the time and you just can't relax. Maybe you've wished Iyanla would just come fix your life!!
Greetings, I am sure our paths have not crossed by accident. I'm curious to see where this journey will lead .Maybe right now you're deep in your feelings, feeling sad or numb, wishing to feel JOY again... or just feel anything but this. Maybe you've experienced trauma and it plays over and over again, the pain or fear won't go away. Maybe you're struggling with relationships, situationships, friendships, or family connections. Maybe you're worried all the time and you just can't relax. Maybe you've wished Iyanla would just come fix your life!!
(336) 396-5620 View (336) 396-5620
Photo of Taylor Pavlica, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham County, NC
Taylor Pavlica
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
I’m a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist with a strong belief in the resiliency of the human spirit. I am passionate about working with individuals who struggle with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, poor self-esteem, substance use, sexuality & gender identity, imposter syndrome, life transitions, and suicide. With a client-focused approach, my role is to provide a strong supportive foundation while challenging you to overcome obstacles, apply new skills, and deepen your understanding of yourself by meeting you where you are in your mental health journey.
I’m a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist with a strong belief in the resiliency of the human spirit. I am passionate about working with individuals who struggle with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, poor self-esteem, substance use, sexuality & gender identity, imposter syndrome, life transitions, and suicide. With a client-focused approach, my role is to provide a strong supportive foundation while challenging you to overcome obstacles, apply new skills, and deepen your understanding of yourself by meeting you where you are in your mental health journey.
(919) 343-0400 View (919) 343-0400
Photo of Peter Charles Soule, Counselor in Durham County, NC
Peter Charles Soule
Counselor, MEd,, LCAS
Not Verified Not Verified
Durham, NC 27701
Accepting New Patients I am a board certified licensed clinical addiction specialist. I provide counseling, consultation and evaluation for adults with mental health concerns and/or substances abuse issues. I work in a group practice with a psychiatrist who provides medication management. I have extensive experience treating patients who struggle with alcohol, drug abuse, chronic relapse, as well as life problems created by these issues. I strive to help my patients obtain optimal mental health through support, education and collaboration. I provide a warm approach which encourages autonomy, growth and healing.
Accepting New Patients I am a board certified licensed clinical addiction specialist. I provide counseling, consultation and evaluation for adults with mental health concerns and/or substances abuse issues. I work in a group practice with a psychiatrist who provides medication management. I have extensive experience treating patients who struggle with alcohol, drug abuse, chronic relapse, as well as life problems created by these issues. I strive to help my patients obtain optimal mental health through support, education and collaboration. I provide a warm approach which encourages autonomy, growth and healing.
(919) 648-2839 View (919) 648-2839

See more therapy options for Durham County

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.