Photo of Jason McKeown, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fletcher, NC
Jason McKeown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCATPCA
Verified Verified
Fletcher, NC 28732
Hello and welcome! I'm a dedicated Marriage & Family Therapist committed to creating a safe and supportive space for individuals, couples, and families to navigate the challenges life. I work with clients relationally, whether that relationship is with yourself, a partner, or family member, I am here to guide and support your journey. I have helped thousands of families, couples, and individuals find peace, comfort, and happiness in their lives and relationships. I focus on deepening communication, creating new connection, and moving beyond the past events that control our present lives.
Hello and welcome! I'm a dedicated Marriage & Family Therapist committed to creating a safe and supportive space for individuals, couples, and families to navigate the challenges life. I work with clients relationally, whether that relationship is with yourself, a partner, or family member, I am here to guide and support your journey. I have helped thousands of families, couples, and individuals find peace, comfort, and happiness in their lives and relationships. I focus on deepening communication, creating new connection, and moving beyond the past events that control our present lives.
(828) 392-5949 View (828) 392-5949

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Online Teletherapy For Asheville North Carolina Martha Watson in Fletcher, NC
Online Teletherapy For Asheville North Carolina Martha Watson
PhD, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28739
Specialties: Trauma & PTSD (Online Men's Trauma Coaching), Anxiety and Stress Management, Stress Reduction for Cancer Patients, Child & Teen Stress, Anxiety, Fear and Anger Mindfulness & Emotional Regulation, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, Chronic Illness, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome Coaching), Pain Management, Spirituality and Mind-body Medicine.
Feeling overwhelmed by trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's anger? The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably increased stress and anxiety, impacting both adults and children's mental and physical well-being. A holistic approach that combines CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine offers evidence-based methods for lasting results. This comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of stress challenges, helping you cope, restore your health & handle life transitions. It tackles stress triggers like fear, negative emotions & feeling overwhelmed. Book your complimentary online consultation today for a drug free positive coping strategy.
Specialties: Trauma & PTSD (Online Men's Trauma Coaching), Anxiety and Stress Management, Stress Reduction for Cancer Patients, Child & Teen Stress, Anxiety, Fear and Anger Mindfulness & Emotional Regulation, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, Chronic Illness, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome Coaching), Pain Management, Spirituality and Mind-body Medicine.
Feeling overwhelmed by trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's anger? The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably increased stress and anxiety, impacting both adults and children's mental and physical well-being. A holistic approach that combines CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine offers evidence-based methods for lasting results. This comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of stress challenges, helping you cope, restore your health & handle life transitions. It tackles stress triggers like fear, negative emotions & feeling overwhelmed. Book your complimentary online consultation today for a drug free positive coping strategy.
(828) 888-0944 View (828) 888-0944
Photo of Katie Fitzpatrick Camenzind, Psychologist in Fletcher, NC
Katie Fitzpatrick Camenzind
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mills River, NC 28759
Waitlist for new clients
In times like these it can feel like you’re losing a lot: losing hope, losing sleep, losing control. But pain can be productive. Struggles can be opportunities to see what we're made of. They can also be the impetus to make changes we've been putting off, maybe out of fear that they would upset the balance we work so hard to maintain. Right now during this pandemic, it's hard to find one thing in our lives that hasn't changed and there are so many unknowns. It can be very difficult to persevere when you can't see the light at the end of the tunnel and when your usual outlets for support and coping are now limited.
In times like these it can feel like you’re losing a lot: losing hope, losing sleep, losing control. But pain can be productive. Struggles can be opportunities to see what we're made of. They can also be the impetus to make changes we've been putting off, maybe out of fear that they would upset the balance we work so hard to maintain. Right now during this pandemic, it's hard to find one thing in our lives that hasn't changed and there are so many unknowns. It can be very difficult to persevere when you can't see the light at the end of the tunnel and when your usual outlets for support and coping are now limited.
(828) 383-9981 View (828) 383-9981
Photo of Dr. Andrea Dughoff, Psychologist in Fletcher, NC
Dr. Andrea Dughoff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
My calling and expertise is to help women better manage anxiety, worry, and stress in order to cultivate and connect with their inner peace and joy. The pace of life seems to quicken with time, along with the multiple demands to be a good mom, wife, woman, and professional. It can seem impossible to find moments of rest and happiness while balancing “all of the things”. I have found that when women try to "do it all" it can lead to burnout, resentment, depression, and chronic illness. Are your nerves shot? Are you tired but wired? Are you struggling to reign-in unhealthy habits? You've come to the right place!
My calling and expertise is to help women better manage anxiety, worry, and stress in order to cultivate and connect with their inner peace and joy. The pace of life seems to quicken with time, along with the multiple demands to be a good mom, wife, woman, and professional. It can seem impossible to find moments of rest and happiness while balancing “all of the things”. I have found that when women try to "do it all" it can lead to burnout, resentment, depression, and chronic illness. Are your nerves shot? Are you tired but wired? Are you struggling to reign-in unhealthy habits? You've come to the right place!
(828) 415-5304 View (828) 415-5304
Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fletcher, NC
Lisa Lavelle Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
(828) 360-8820 View (828) 360-8820
Photo of Leslie Mulligan, Counselor in Fletcher, NC
Leslie Mulligan
Counselor, MS, EdS, LCPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Anxiety; depression; grief; pain; mood disorientation, relationship, sleep and life changes; and work/life balance improve when honest and clear understanding is present and supported to change.
I am a creative humanist. As an experiential psychotherapist, I join with you in your life-in-process to support your self-awareness, healing, and growth. I engage with your whole person - body, mind, being - your unique "me". Life change, moods, relationships, work, health, recovery are my focus. Rather than lean into pathology, I value your intelligence, ways of expression, learning and strategies. Using facts, metaphor, lived experience, humor, honesty you'll see your own best way through. I tailor my tools to your person/couple/family's needs. You gain objective and compassionate insights, and new tools for thriving.
Anxiety; depression; grief; pain; mood disorientation, relationship, sleep and life changes; and work/life balance improve when honest and clear understanding is present and supported to change.
I am a creative humanist. As an experiential psychotherapist, I join with you in your life-in-process to support your self-awareness, healing, and growth. I engage with your whole person - body, mind, being - your unique "me". Life change, moods, relationships, work, health, recovery are my focus. Rather than lean into pathology, I value your intelligence, ways of expression, learning and strategies. Using facts, metaphor, lived experience, humor, honesty you'll see your own best way through. I tailor my tools to your person/couple/family's needs. You gain objective and compassionate insights, and new tools for thriving.
(207) 843-9672 View (207) 843-9672
Photo of Michelle McKinzie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fletcher, NC
Michelle McKinzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview, NC 28730  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I help clients with histories of trauma in the context of chronic illness.
Have you experienced a life-altering medical condition? Are you experiencing difficulties regulating your mood, including depression and anxiety? Let me help you find ways to manage your emotions and your health more effectively! I would love to help you on a journey to finding more peace and happiness.
I help clients with histories of trauma in the context of chronic illness.
Have you experienced a life-altering medical condition? Are you experiencing difficulties regulating your mood, including depression and anxiety? Let me help you find ways to manage your emotions and your health more effectively! I would love to help you on a journey to finding more peace and happiness.
(828) 475-5258 View (828) 475-5258
Photo of Lottie Cooper, LPC Intern in Fletcher, NC
Lottie Cooper
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
Are you feeling stuck and want a breakthrough? I can facilitate releasing your physical, emotional, spiritual pain that is stored in the body. Are you ready to commit to yourself ? I am committed to supporting you in creating a joyful & fulfilling life. I use many modalities to individualize sessions to meet your needs to heal your pain mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Learn sensitive ways of thinking and communicating to support your relationships, create new perspectives, inner wisdom, and self-love, for a more fulfilling life. Learn skills to easily release stress, and explorations to track your progress.
Are you feeling stuck and want a breakthrough? I can facilitate releasing your physical, emotional, spiritual pain that is stored in the body. Are you ready to commit to yourself ? I am committed to supporting you in creating a joyful & fulfilling life. I use many modalities to individualize sessions to meet your needs to heal your pain mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Learn sensitive ways of thinking and communicating to support your relationships, create new perspectives, inner wisdom, and self-love, for a more fulfilling life. Learn skills to easily release stress, and explorations to track your progress.
(828) 944-4105 View (828) 944-4105
Photo of Full Circle Community Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fletcher, 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 Taylor Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fletcher, NC
Taylor Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Hi there, my name is Taylor. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate. I graduated from East Tennessee State University with a BSW and MSW. Prior my transition to the mental health field in 2020, I gained experience as a social worker in the medical field working with all age groups and populations. In the most recent years, I worked as an Employee Assistance Program Therapist and a Inpatient Psychiatric Social Worker (present).
Hi there, my name is Taylor. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate. I graduated from East Tennessee State University with a BSW and MSW. Prior my transition to the mental health field in 2020, I gained experience as a social worker in the medical field working with all age groups and populations. In the most recent years, I worked as an Employee Assistance Program Therapist and a Inpatient Psychiatric Social Worker (present).
(828) 383-9615 View (828) 383-9615
Photo of Matt Snyder, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fletcher, NC
Matt Snyder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LCMHCS, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803  (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 Jeff H Thompson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fletcher, NC
Jeff H Thompson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28791  (Online Only)
We all struggle with some degree of anxiety, trauma, some kinds of interpersonal challenges. It really helps to have someone to help us navigate these struggles and build skills. As a therapist, I offer lots of ideas and practices, and the folks who get the most out of our work are willing to try things out on their own. I offer these approaches with kindness, authenticity, and a sense of humor. There’s no reason therapy can’t be fun!
We all struggle with some degree of anxiety, trauma, some kinds of interpersonal challenges. It really helps to have someone to help us navigate these struggles and build skills. As a therapist, I offer lots of ideas and practices, and the folks who get the most out of our work are willing to try things out on their own. I offer these approaches with kindness, authenticity, and a sense of humor. There’s no reason therapy can’t be fun!
(828) 944-8113 View (828) 944-8113
Photo of Kara Catrelle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fletcher, NC
Kara Catrelle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CVA, CAP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805  (Online Only)
With over 25 years in the mental health field and 13 years in private practice, I offer a multitude of personal and professional experience. Much of our suffering is due to dissatisfaction in relationships. Sadly, many relationships end prematurely when we are most hurt and emotionally vulnerable. However, this is the time when the very intimacy we were lacking prior has the potential to finally break through. I give you tools and insight to heal old wounds that are holding you back from experiencing the love you seek within yourself and others. Together we address the intrapsychic conflicts and longings of the soul.
With over 25 years in the mental health field and 13 years in private practice, I offer a multitude of personal and professional experience. Much of our suffering is due to dissatisfaction in relationships. Sadly, many relationships end prematurely when we are most hurt and emotionally vulnerable. However, this is the time when the very intimacy we were lacking prior has the potential to finally break through. I give you tools and insight to heal old wounds that are holding you back from experiencing the love you seek within yourself and others. Together we address the intrapsychic conflicts and longings of the soul.
(828) 782-3435 View (828) 782-3435
Photo of Virginia Oman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fletcher, NC
Virginia Oman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCPT
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Getting to a better state of BEING; feeling good about yourself and your life. If you are serious about finding clarity about yourself and your life, stopping negative patterns/emotions, replacing that with joy and wisdom about who you are, we would be a good " fit". Whether you are wanting to get OUT of an emotional place of darkness & feeling without hope, or if you are wanting to take your life to a improved level of fulfillment and meaning....I provide the compass that can bring you the way there. NOTE: During this time of health crisis, I do provide phone or internet sessions if you'd rather stay at home.
Getting to a better state of BEING; feeling good about yourself and your life. If you are serious about finding clarity about yourself and your life, stopping negative patterns/emotions, replacing that with joy and wisdom about who you are, we would be a good " fit". Whether you are wanting to get OUT of an emotional place of darkness & feeling without hope, or if you are wanting to take your life to a improved level of fulfillment and meaning....I provide the compass that can bring you the way there. NOTE: During this time of health crisis, I do provide phone or internet sessions if you'd rather stay at home.
(828) 622-4231 View (828) 622-4231
Photo of Justina Prenatt, Counselor in Fletcher, NC
Justina Prenatt
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
I believe that we live in challenging times. Many people find it difficult to feel confident and self assured, have peaceful, fulfilling relationships, navigate the demands of finances, family, work and home, and also focus on nourishing self care. These challenges are interconnected. They are related to how we have developed our sense of self in the context of family expectations and experiences, societal demands, cultural assumptions, and media influence. It is necessary for all of us to learn how to live our best lives in these particular circumstances. You are not alone.
I believe that we live in challenging times. Many people find it difficult to feel confident and self assured, have peaceful, fulfilling relationships, navigate the demands of finances, family, work and home, and also focus on nourishing self care. These challenges are interconnected. They are related to how we have developed our sense of self in the context of family expectations and experiences, societal demands, cultural assumptions, and media influence. It is necessary for all of us to learn how to live our best lives in these particular circumstances. You are not alone.
(828) 970-8533 View (828) 970-8533
Photo of Cliff Koos in Fletcher, 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 Tina Clark, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor in Fletcher, NC
Tina Clark, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, CCMC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
Therapy provides an opportunity to better understand one's thoughts, feelings, behaviors & relationships. I provide confidential and supportive individual, couples & group talk therapy in a comfortable setting. I respect each client's unique background and journey and work within a collaborative framework to assist them in achieving relief, empowerment and self-awareness. I believe that difficult feelings can be a gateway to personal growth and greatly enjoy the opportunity to guide others through their challenges and where they feel stuck.
Therapy provides an opportunity to better understand one's thoughts, feelings, behaviors & relationships. I provide confidential and supportive individual, couples & group talk therapy in a comfortable setting. I respect each client's unique background and journey and work within a collaborative framework to assist them in achieving relief, empowerment and self-awareness. I believe that difficult feelings can be a gateway to personal growth and greatly enjoy the opportunity to guide others through their challenges and where they feel stuck.
(828) 633-4456 View (828) 633-4456
Photo of Beth Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fletcher, NC
Beth Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
Way to go about taking the first step to start therapy! Life is crazy right now. It's tough to feel any balance. Stressors weigh on you and may even add to your anxiety and depression symptoms. Perhaps you or your child may be struggling and at a loss for what to do. I can support you to find the best strategies to tackle these stressors and get back to balance despite the things we can't change in the world now. I've spent many years working with individuals to navigate their symptoms to work together to make daily life feel back in balance. I have extensive training and experience to treat the whole person with a mindful approach.
Way to go about taking the first step to start therapy! Life is crazy right now. It's tough to feel any balance. Stressors weigh on you and may even add to your anxiety and depression symptoms. Perhaps you or your child may be struggling and at a loss for what to do. I can support you to find the best strategies to tackle these stressors and get back to balance despite the things we can't change in the world now. I've spent many years working with individuals to navigate their symptoms to work together to make daily life feel back in balance. I have extensive training and experience to treat the whole person with a mindful approach.
(828) 481-8686 View (828) 481-8686
Photo of Kimberly Roe, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fletcher, NC
Kimberly Roe
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
Welcome! The calming presence of a seasoned therapist can provide much needed respite in an increasingly complex world. At its best, therapy can also help you to get to know yourself better and learn new tools to move forward from a place of self-compassion. I help individuals develop tools to heal from trauma and loss, let go of unhelpful thought and behavior patterns, and identify what they most value at work and in relationships. My deep-seated empathy drives my work with clients, which is informed by my 15 years as a licensed professional counselor and three years as a meditation instructor.
Welcome! The calming presence of a seasoned therapist can provide much needed respite in an increasingly complex world. At its best, therapy can also help you to get to know yourself better and learn new tools to move forward from a place of self-compassion. I help individuals develop tools to heal from trauma and loss, let go of unhelpful thought and behavior patterns, and identify what they most value at work and in relationships. My deep-seated empathy drives my work with clients, which is informed by my 15 years as a licensed professional counselor and three years as a meditation instructor.
(828) 383-8883 View (828) 383-8883
Photo of White Eagle Vision , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fletcher, NC
White Eagle Vision
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with women's issues, trauma, relationships, grief, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need some help from a licensed professional to cope with many of life’s challenges, and I’d love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. My approach is to help you delve deeper into understanding some of the cyclical patterns created and to liberate yourself to optimum health mind, body, and spirit so that you can thrive instead of just survive. I honor the opportunity to explore with an individual their underlining traumas of lacking a spiritual connection to everything around us.
Are you struggling with women's issues, trauma, relationships, grief, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need some help from a licensed professional to cope with many of life’s challenges, and I’d love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. My approach is to help you delve deeper into understanding some of the cyclical patterns created and to liberate yourself to optimum health mind, body, and spirit so that you can thrive instead of just survive. I honor the opportunity to explore with an individual their underlining traumas of lacking a spiritual connection to everything around us.
(828) 518-1134 View (828) 518-1134

See more therapy options for Fletcher

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.