Photo of Leigh Zick Dongre, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Durham County, NC
Leigh Zick Dongre
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27706
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 Jessica Jeremiah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham County, NC
Jessica Jeremiah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Every person I serve has a unique story. While some clients experience challenges in just one area, most experience difficulty multiple areas (mental health, trauma, loss, addiction), creating a complex, vicious cycle if not all parts are addressed. The circumstances that bring someone to therapy do not come in 'neat little packages.' I enjoy sorting out the pieces with each client, getting to the root of the issue, and offering a combination of evidence-based therapeutic interventions that help clients finally begin to experience relief, and start living a happier, more fulfilled life.
Every person I serve has a unique story. While some clients experience challenges in just one area, most experience difficulty multiple areas (mental health, trauma, loss, addiction), creating a complex, vicious cycle if not all parts are addressed. The circumstances that bring someone to therapy do not come in 'neat little packages.' I enjoy sorting out the pieces with each client, getting to the root of the issue, and offering a combination of evidence-based therapeutic interventions that help clients finally begin to experience relief, and start living a happier, more fulfilled life.
(919) 585-5163 View (919) 585-5163
Photo of Nour Counseling & Consulting, PLLC in Durham County, NC
Nour Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701  (Online Only)
Has finding an inclusive therapist been a challenge for you? Do you need a counselor who understands experiences around BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, ability differences, and any other wonderful traits that make you who you are? As therapists at Nour Counseling, we self-identify with historically marginalized backgrounds, and have a special passion for supporting our communities. You can come to each therapy session resting assured that your therapist recognizes how the intersection of your various identities impacts the way you experience the world and presenting concerns. We celebrate folx who identify as bicultural, Black, African American, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ability diverse, and all who have been historically marginalized because… Everyone means everyone.
Has finding an inclusive therapist been a challenge for you? Do you need a counselor who understands experiences around BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, ability differences, and any other wonderful traits that make you who you are? As therapists at Nour Counseling, we self-identify with historically marginalized backgrounds, and have a special passion for supporting our communities. You can come to each therapy session resting assured that your therapist recognizes how the intersection of your various identities impacts the way you experience the world and presenting concerns. We celebrate folx who identify as bicultural, Black, African American, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ability diverse, and all who have been historically marginalized because… Everyone means everyone.
(919) 587-8394 View (919) 587-8394
Photo of Fani Mwasiti, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham County, NC
Fani Mwasiti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
Not accepting new clients
Currently not accepting new clients! I provide counseling services to individuals and couples who are experiencing issues that they would like to address in therapy to discover and grow in healing and wholeness. I seek to provide a safe space to explore difficulties, identify sources or causes, and pursue insights and strategies towards solutions and healthy living.
Currently not accepting new clients! I provide counseling services to individuals and couples who are experiencing issues that they would like to address in therapy to discover and grow in healing and wholeness. I seek to provide a safe space to explore difficulties, identify sources or causes, and pursue insights and strategies towards solutions and healthy living.
(984) 985-2887 View (984) 985-2887
Photo of Jason Wesson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham County, NC
Jason Wesson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
**Not Accepting New Clients Currently** I am highly experienced with those who find themselves stuck in unproductive or damaging patterns of thinking or actions and have been unable to move forward, even with other professional help. The feedback I receive from fellow providers and clients is that I have a high success rate of treatment and recovery. I believe that outpatient psychotherapy is a process of collaboration that provides a stable, supportive environment for achieving psychological wellness. Each of us are unique and the best expert on the stressors in our daily life.
**Not Accepting New Clients Currently** I am highly experienced with those who find themselves stuck in unproductive or damaging patterns of thinking or actions and have been unable to move forward, even with other professional help. The feedback I receive from fellow providers and clients is that I have a high success rate of treatment and recovery. I believe that outpatient psychotherapy is a process of collaboration that provides a stable, supportive environment for achieving psychological wellness. Each of us are unique and the best expert on the stressors in our daily life.
(984) 205-8501 View (984) 205-8501

Online Therapists

Photo of Triangle Wellness and Recovery PLLC in Durham County, NC
Triangle Wellness and Recovery PLLC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
Our team takes an integrative, cross-disciplinary approach to whole-person wellness and recovery. The clients we work with struggle with a broad range of physical and mental health symptoms and conditions including anxiety and mood disorders, depression and bipolar depression, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, chronic pain, substance or alcohol abuse, compulsive behaviors, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. We tailor your treatment plan to start where you are right now and help you build a meaningful, satisfying life that is unique to your personal goals and desires.
Our team takes an integrative, cross-disciplinary approach to whole-person wellness and recovery. The clients we work with struggle with a broad range of physical and mental health symptoms and conditions including anxiety and mood disorders, depression and bipolar depression, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, chronic pain, substance or alcohol abuse, compulsive behaviors, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. We tailor your treatment plan to start where you are right now and help you build a meaningful, satisfying life that is unique to your personal goals and desires.
(984) 205-8011 View (984) 205-8011
Photo of New Way Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham County, NC
New Way Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knightdale, NC 27545
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Often times life can be challenging and many of us are not prepared to deal with those issues and find ourselves in an unfamiliar place. As a therapist, I am dedicated to providing individualized care to meet your needs. I've worked with children and adults in the mental health field for over 16 years and individuals with addiction for over 8 years. I've treated individuals with various mental health and substance use disorders. My experience enables me to offer effective, individualized outpatient psychological care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges and addiction.
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Often times life can be challenging and many of us are not prepared to deal with those issues and find ourselves in an unfamiliar place. As a therapist, I am dedicated to providing individualized care to meet your needs. I've worked with children and adults in the mental health field for over 16 years and individuals with addiction for over 8 years. I've treated individuals with various mental health and substance use disorders. My experience enables me to offer effective, individualized outpatient psychological care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges and addiction.
(919) 289-8267 View (919) 289-8267
Photo of Char Boyette, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Durham County, NC
Char Boyette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, EMDRIA, CCS, MDiv, JD
Verified Verified
Winterville, NC 28590
I am a person on the journey of wellness myself so I can empathize with the pain of feeling isolated and misunderstood, stuck in old patterns and unable to break unhelpful cycles of abuse, trauma, poverty, addictions, and multiple mental health challenges.
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
I am a person on the journey of wellness myself so I can empathize with the pain of feeling isolated and misunderstood, stuck in old patterns and unable to break unhelpful cycles of abuse, trauma, poverty, addictions, and multiple mental health challenges.
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
(910) 634-6171 View (910) 634-6171
Photo of Esther Mendez, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Durham County, NC
Esther Mendez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27107
Personal power is necessary when bad things happen to good people. With over 18 years of experience in the mental health field, I've worked with individuals of all ages and their families. So whether it's the end of a marriage or a job; PTSD; depression or the roller coaster of ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Behavioral Addictions and more, I'm here to help you step through the door of your "old" normal and into improved personal power and an increased sense of personal success that will become your "new" normal with a happier, healthier life.
Personal power is necessary when bad things happen to good people. With over 18 years of experience in the mental health field, I've worked with individuals of all ages and their families. So whether it's the end of a marriage or a job; PTSD; depression or the roller coaster of ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Behavioral Addictions and more, I'm here to help you step through the door of your "old" normal and into improved personal power and an increased sense of personal success that will become your "new" normal with a happier, healthier life.
(336) 814-9297 View (336) 814-9297
Photo of Alex Rezcallah, Counselor in Durham County, NC
Alex Rezcallah
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, TSAC-F
Verified Verified
Elon, NC 27244
NOW OFFERING E-THERAPY! My services take place in the client's natural environment (their home, local gym, or in the surrounding community). Services include individual counseling, therapy, personal training for adults, adolescents, couples, & families. I also offer ADHD coaching, personal coaching, career counseling, and consultation. I'm experienced in treating Mood Disorders such as Depression & Bipolar Disorders, Anger Management, ADHD in adolescents & adults, Anxiety Disorders, Career Counseling, Life Skills Building, Men's Issues, Identity Development, Nutrition & Exercise Planning, Meditation Training.
NOW OFFERING E-THERAPY! My services take place in the client's natural environment (their home, local gym, or in the surrounding community). Services include individual counseling, therapy, personal training for adults, adolescents, couples, & families. I also offer ADHD coaching, personal coaching, career counseling, and consultation. I'm experienced in treating Mood Disorders such as Depression & Bipolar Disorders, Anger Management, ADHD in adolescents & adults, Anxiety Disorders, Career Counseling, Life Skills Building, Men's Issues, Identity Development, Nutrition & Exercise Planning, Meditation Training.
(919) 586-8551 View (919) 586-8551
Photo of The Pleasants Group , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham County, NC
The Pleasants Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CTP, CDBT, CCS
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27404  (Online Only)
Pro LGBTQQIAP/ BLM/ sex/ body positive/ally. I specialize in healing from healing the neurological response to trauma. My training, both academic and visceral experiences, have all contributed in creating an eclectic therapeutic approach that values empowerment, self-direction, confidentiality, a non-judgmental atmosphere, emotional safety, validation, dignity, and respect above as else. These components are necessary to create an environment conducive for healing. When both the client and the therapist are willing to work in collaboration towards achieving their therapeutic goals, great strides can be made in the healing process.
Pro LGBTQQIAP/ BLM/ sex/ body positive/ally. I specialize in healing from healing the neurological response to trauma. My training, both academic and visceral experiences, have all contributed in creating an eclectic therapeutic approach that values empowerment, self-direction, confidentiality, a non-judgmental atmosphere, emotional safety, validation, dignity, and respect above as else. These components are necessary to create an environment conducive for healing. When both the client and the therapist are willing to work in collaboration towards achieving their therapeutic goals, great strides can be made in the healing process.
(336) 814-8807 View (336) 814-8807
Photo of Wayne Faison, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Durham County, NC
Wayne Faison
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
"YOU REALLY CAN HAVE A LIFE OF ABUNDANCE, PEACE, LIFE, AND JOY!” You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. I Promise you that I am as real as a therapist can get! When you have tried things and they are not working for you, it's time to try something different, and I pride myself in being different and not like every other therapist. Life is too short to hold onto grudges, bad relationships, or to be angry/anxious all the time, and to let past trauma control your life. It's time for that to stop! It's time for you to find meaning and purpose. Let’s talk it's time to make the change for you!
"YOU REALLY CAN HAVE A LIFE OF ABUNDANCE, PEACE, LIFE, AND JOY!” You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. I Promise you that I am as real as a therapist can get! When you have tried things and they are not working for you, it's time to try something different, and I pride myself in being different and not like every other therapist. Life is too short to hold onto grudges, bad relationships, or to be angry/anxious all the time, and to let past trauma control your life. It's time for that to stop! It's time for you to find meaning and purpose. Let’s talk it's time to make the change for you!
(984) 201-7633 View (984) 201-7633
Photo of Steven Riley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Durham County, NC
Steven Riley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612  (Online Only)
Everyone faces challenges in life. Sometimes we are in need of answers and guidance. Children, teens, adults and couples all face these challenges. You have all the answers to face these challenges. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina, and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. I am here to guide you through the process of making each step to success and happiness. Couples, my wife Latisha Riley who is also a fully licensed therapist and I offer a unique "Quad session" where we both are available during the session providing a customized experience. Please contact us for details.
Everyone faces challenges in life. Sometimes we are in need of answers and guidance. Children, teens, adults and couples all face these challenges. You have all the answers to face these challenges. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina, and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. I am here to guide you through the process of making each step to success and happiness. Couples, my wife Latisha Riley who is also a fully licensed therapist and I offer a unique "Quad session" where we both are available during the session providing a customized experience. Please contact us for details.
(919) 372-4479 View (919) 372-4479
Photo of Insight Family Center, LLC in Durham County, NC
Insight Family Center, LLC
MA, LPC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
At Insight Family Center, LLC we provide premium psychiatry,mental health and substance abuse services. Our priority is to provide our clients with techniques that will assist them in obtaining their desired outcomes to reach their personal goals.
At Insight Family Center, LLC we provide premium psychiatry,mental health and substance abuse services. Our priority is to provide our clients with techniques that will assist them in obtaining their desired outcomes to reach their personal goals.
(919) 626-3979 View (919) 626-3979
Photo of Thrive Counseling & Consulting PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Durham County, NC
Thrive Counseling & Consulting PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMHC, LMFT, MSW, LCAS, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28304
Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We all experience moments that leave us feeling hopeless, sad, frustrated, angry, or frightened. However, life is not meant to be lived in that place of darkness. While we can't change the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Using complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will help unearth old behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're ready to take steps forward, we are ready to help.
Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We all experience moments that leave us feeling hopeless, sad, frustrated, angry, or frightened. However, life is not meant to be lived in that place of darkness. While we can't change the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Using complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will help unearth old behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're ready to take steps forward, we are ready to help.
(910) 483-5884 View (910) 483-5884
Photo of Tad Clodfelter, Psychologist in Durham County, NC
Tad Clodfelter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
If you are dealing with the challenges of alcohol or other substance problems (including gambling)—your own or those of a loved one—you know all-to-well the painful impacts these can bring. I can help. As a licensed psychologist, CEO, and thought leader in the addictions field for more than twenty years, I know the treatment system thoroughly. I provide expert care, clear diagnosis, and collaborate with other treatment entities to ensure the ready availability of any care level needed, including residential. Long-term sobriety and recovery are reasonable expectations, even if you have tried treatment before without success.
If you are dealing with the challenges of alcohol or other substance problems (including gambling)—your own or those of a loved one—you know all-to-well the painful impacts these can bring. I can help. As a licensed psychologist, CEO, and thought leader in the addictions field for more than twenty years, I know the treatment system thoroughly. I provide expert care, clear diagnosis, and collaborate with other treatment entities to ensure the ready availability of any care level needed, including residential. Long-term sobriety and recovery are reasonable expectations, even if you have tried treatment before without success.
(984) 205-3796 View (984) 205-3796
Photo of CrossBeam Centers, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Durham County, NC
CrossBeam Centers
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC-S, LCSW, LCAS, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
By definition a crossbeam is a "beam that spans from one support to another". At CrossBeam Centers, we are a client focused multi-specialty team providing comprehensive Counseling Psychopharmacology and Psychotherapy services that will give you the beam needed to support you through the nuances of life. Our dedicated team of Coaches, Counselors, Nurse Practitioners, Social Workers and Therapists are passionate about providing compassionate care that address the client's whole life...mind, body, spirit and relationship.
By definition a crossbeam is a "beam that spans from one support to another". At CrossBeam Centers, we are a client focused multi-specialty team providing comprehensive Counseling Psychopharmacology and Psychotherapy services that will give you the beam needed to support you through the nuances of life. Our dedicated team of Coaches, Counselors, Nurse Practitioners, Social Workers and Therapists are passionate about providing compassionate care that address the client's whole life...mind, body, spirit and relationship.
(910) 387-1432 View (910) 387-1432
Photo of Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Durham County, NC
Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCASA, CEO
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
(336) 502-8218 View (336) 502-8218
Photo of Cecelia Ann Bailey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham County, NC
Cecelia Ann Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I provide therapy to adolescents and adults, using a client-centered, eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client. My preferred treatment approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I believe that change happens when people are given the guidance they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live a fulfilling, happy life. My areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, teens with self-injurious behaviors/behavior issues, phase of life changes and life stresses.
I provide therapy to adolescents and adults, using a client-centered, eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client. My preferred treatment approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I believe that change happens when people are given the guidance they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live a fulfilling, happy life. My areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, teens with self-injurious behaviors/behavior issues, phase of life changes and life stresses.
(919) 583-7910 View (919) 583-7910
Photo of Lakia Branch-Rollins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Durham County, NC
Lakia Branch-Rollins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Our lives do NOT get better by chance or happenstance, they get better by CHOICE! Congratulations on making a huge choice towards a more meaningful change in your life. We all come from various backgrounds, experiences, and will all face difficulties at one point in our lives. It's at that point, that we desire more, something different, a shift that will assist us from where we are, to where we desire to be, and I am here to assist you on that journey.
Our lives do NOT get better by chance or happenstance, they get better by CHOICE! Congratulations on making a huge choice towards a more meaningful change in your life. We all come from various backgrounds, experiences, and will all face difficulties at one point in our lives. It's at that point, that we desire more, something different, a shift that will assist us from where we are, to where we desire to be, and I am here to assist you on that journey.
(336) 360-5813 View (336) 360-5813

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.