Photo of Sarah Philbeck, Licensed Professional Counselor in Forest City, NC
Sarah Philbeck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Forest City, NC 28043
Waitlist for new clients
Many of us desire a sense of calm, connection, and well-being. Yet life circumstances and even parts of ourselves can prevent us from having these experiences in our day to day lives. Providing a safe and non-judgmental place to explore your struggles and emotional pain is essential to my practice. I feel honored to support those who desire to grow and heal.
Many of us desire a sense of calm, connection, and well-being. Yet life circumstances and even parts of ourselves can prevent us from having these experiences in our day to day lives. Providing a safe and non-judgmental place to explore your struggles and emotional pain is essential to my practice. I feel honored to support those who desire to grow and heal.
(704) 802-9945 View (704) 802-9945
Photo of Michele C. Blackman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Forest City, NC
Michele C. Blackman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Forest City, NC 28043
I offer therapy services to all individuals, couples, and families. I also offer parenting classes and anger management. I believe in tailoring treatment to fit the needs of the individual client. For this reason I don't use the same therapeutic approach with every client. Every person is unique and I believe it is important to recognize this. In addition to traditional therapy I also offer "Relationship Checkups". These checkups consist of two sessions designed for couples to attend once a year. The checkup is to provide maintenance, prevention and intervention to keep your relationship strong throughout the year.
I offer therapy services to all individuals, couples, and families. I also offer parenting classes and anger management. I believe in tailoring treatment to fit the needs of the individual client. For this reason I don't use the same therapeutic approach with every client. Every person is unique and I believe it is important to recognize this. In addition to traditional therapy I also offer "Relationship Checkups". These checkups consist of two sessions designed for couples to attend once a year. The checkup is to provide maintenance, prevention and intervention to keep your relationship strong throughout the year.
(704) 278-8076 View (704) 278-8076

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kathryn Shanks, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Forest City, NC
Kathryn Shanks
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rutherfordton, NC 28139  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with people who feel overwhelmed--by work, big transitions, relationships, family, life. My approach is gentle, non-judgmental, and deep. I enjoy helping clients become more fully aware of themselves and of the patterns that hold them back in life, and working with them to feel more grounded and connected with themselves and with others. Many of my clients are people who are in helping professions or caretaking roles. Many are women or non-binary individuals, and are longing to feel more at home in their own skin and more confident in their own strength, beauty, and wisdom.
I work with people who feel overwhelmed--by work, big transitions, relationships, family, life. My approach is gentle, non-judgmental, and deep. I enjoy helping clients become more fully aware of themselves and of the patterns that hold them back in life, and working with them to feel more grounded and connected with themselves and with others. Many of my clients are people who are in helping professions or caretaking roles. Many are women or non-binary individuals, and are longing to feel more at home in their own skin and more confident in their own strength, beauty, and wisdom.
(828) 354-0564 View (828) 354-0564

Online Therapists

Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Forest City, 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 Samii Stephens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Forest City, NC
Samii Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Hi there! Thank you for taking the initiative to seek care for yourself or a loved one. I have multiple years of experience in working with adolescents and adults in the mental health field. Primarily, my areas of focus are treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain/chronic illness and mental health in athletes. I appreciate holistic approaches to therapy but I enjoy being able to adapt treatment to the unique characteristics/needs of each client. My hope is to be a support for you as you reach your goals, face obstacles and celebrate victories!
Hi there! Thank you for taking the initiative to seek care for yourself or a loved one. I have multiple years of experience in working with adolescents and adults in the mental health field. Primarily, my areas of focus are treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain/chronic illness and mental health in athletes. I appreciate holistic approaches to therapy but I enjoy being able to adapt treatment to the unique characteristics/needs of each client. My hope is to be a support for you as you reach your goals, face obstacles and celebrate victories!
(704) 272-1379 View (704) 272-1379
Photo of Tara Jubanowsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Forest City, NC
Tara Jubanowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270  (Online Only)
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
(984) 265-8755 View (984) 265-8755
Photo of Tara Jubanowsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Forest City, NC
Tara Jubanowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
I received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Social Psychology from Lehigh University in 2003 and graduated from Columbia University in 2007 with a Master of Science in Social Work. I specialize in the areas of health/illness, medical education, medical/social trauma, chronic pain/disability, grief/bereavement, and loss.
I received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Social Psychology from Lehigh University in 2003 and graduated from Columbia University in 2007 with a Master of Science in Social Work. I specialize in the areas of health/illness, medical education, medical/social trauma, chronic pain/disability, grief/bereavement, and loss.
(704) 486-5283 View (704) 486-5283
Photo of Lucy Dunning, Licensed Professional Counselor in Forest City, NC
Lucy Dunning
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS, BC-TMC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
Connecting with the right therapist is critical when starting your therapeutic journey. I provide free consultations to potential clients, ensuring they feel confident when committing to their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with patients and families who experience Chronic Illness and Pain. As a chronic illness patient and therapist, I recognize the unique and personal journey clients experience. I understand the obstacles, stigma, and barriers my clients face as they work on building their quality of life.
Connecting with the right therapist is critical when starting your therapeutic journey. I provide free consultations to potential clients, ensuring they feel confident when committing to their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with patients and families who experience Chronic Illness and Pain. As a chronic illness patient and therapist, I recognize the unique and personal journey clients experience. I understand the obstacles, stigma, and barriers my clients face as they work on building their quality of life.
View
Photo of Lucyna Sonek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Forest City, NC
Lucyna Sonek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPsych, MA, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
(828) 527-0143 View (828) 527-0143
Photo of Olivia Sessions, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Forest City, NC
Olivia Sessions
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
At Beyond the Mask, I encourage clients to move forward, be free from toxic thought patterns, and unmask the hidden layers of pain, fear, shame, grief, despair, and hopelessness, schedule your appointment today.
Often times we approach a point in life where we just need to reset. Have you experienced difficulty moving forward, being accepted or finding your way in new spaces? Do you find yourself with racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, and consistent overthinking. Do you need to learn how to set safe boundaries and walk in a path full of promise? Are you ready to break free from toxic thought patterns and negative self-talk? Do you want to embrace and believe the statement "I am enough"? If anxiety, fear, depression, or shame have been thoughts you've had over the past month. It's time for change and change starts here.
At Beyond the Mask, I encourage clients to move forward, be free from toxic thought patterns, and unmask the hidden layers of pain, fear, shame, grief, despair, and hopelessness, schedule your appointment today.
Often times we approach a point in life where we just need to reset. Have you experienced difficulty moving forward, being accepted or finding your way in new spaces? Do you find yourself with racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, and consistent overthinking. Do you need to learn how to set safe boundaries and walk in a path full of promise? Are you ready to break free from toxic thought patterns and negative self-talk? Do you want to embrace and believe the statement "I am enough"? If anxiety, fear, depression, or shame have been thoughts you've had over the past month. It's time for change and change starts here.
(704) 610-1556 View (704) 610-1556
Photo of Kristin Kirk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Forest City, NC
Kristin Kirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
(704) 237-0421 View (704) 237-0421
Photo of Alysann Whitley Price, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Forest City, NC
Alysann Whitley Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
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 Michelle McDevitt-Askew, Marriage & Family Therapist in Forest City, NC
Michelle McDevitt-Askew
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
There are seasons in life when the opportunity to grow can come from both joyful and challenging circumstances or complicated issues and relationships. It is my hope that in the safe,non-judgmental space of therapy we can begin to discover your core resiliency, strengths and create awareness for integrating healthy coping and communication skills for healing. I enjoy helping couples discover relational dynamics and patterns that keep them from enjoying a safe, close and vibrant relationship. I am well suited to work with families and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief and life stage transitioning.
There are seasons in life when the opportunity to grow can come from both joyful and challenging circumstances or complicated issues and relationships. It is my hope that in the safe,non-judgmental space of therapy we can begin to discover your core resiliency, strengths and create awareness for integrating healthy coping and communication skills for healing. I enjoy helping couples discover relational dynamics and patterns that keep them from enjoying a safe, close and vibrant relationship. I am well suited to work with families and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief and life stage transitioning.
(980) 263-9313 View (980) 263-9313
Photo of Tova Woullard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Forest City, NC
Tova Woullard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS-A, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kannapolis, NC 28083  (Online Only)
Children: 6 to 17. I serve those with ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, body dysmorphia, identity disorders, schizophrenia, addictions, truancy issues, low-self-esteem issues, oppositional defiant disorders, & OCD, and mood disorders. Adults (18+): I work with those who have anxiety, depression, low-self-esteem, addictions, ADHD, personality disorders, identity issues, adjusting to new conditions, PTSD, body dysmorphia, separation (a break-up, divorce, separation issues, new parents, teachers, retired individuals, those with immunodeficiency disorders, anger issues, domestic violence issues, & empty nesters.
Children: 6 to 17. I serve those with ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, body dysmorphia, identity disorders, schizophrenia, addictions, truancy issues, low-self-esteem issues, oppositional defiant disorders, & OCD, and mood disorders. Adults (18+): I work with those who have anxiety, depression, low-self-esteem, addictions, ADHD, personality disorders, identity issues, adjusting to new conditions, PTSD, body dysmorphia, separation (a break-up, divorce, separation issues, new parents, teachers, retired individuals, those with immunodeficiency disorders, anger issues, domestic violence issues, & empty nesters.
(704) 666-4698 x801 View (704) 666-4698 x801
Photo of Katie Burnett, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Forest City, NC
Katie Burnett
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Waitlist for new clients
+ + + + + My waitlist is currently full + + + + + Seeking support takes courage, and I'm glad you are here. Are you struggling with relationship issues or various life transitions? Are you an overwhelmed parent? I can help you utilize effective strategies that work for your family. Whether you are feeling anxious and burnt out or simply needing some support in navigating a deeper level of self-exploration and growth, I can help. I utilize a holistic, relationally based approach to facilitate healing and self-connection. My role is supportive in helping you discover the unique set of strengths and resources within yourself.
+ + + + + My waitlist is currently full + + + + + Seeking support takes courage, and I'm glad you are here. Are you struggling with relationship issues or various life transitions? Are you an overwhelmed parent? I can help you utilize effective strategies that work for your family. Whether you are feeling anxious and burnt out or simply needing some support in navigating a deeper level of self-exploration and growth, I can help. I utilize a holistic, relationally based approach to facilitate healing and self-connection. My role is supportive in helping you discover the unique set of strengths and resources within yourself.
(704) 707-3513 View (704) 707-3513
Photo of Allyson Yarsinske, Counselor in Forest City, NC
Allyson Yarsinske
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and exhausted constantly? Isolated and alone because you don’t want to burden your friends or family with your problems? Or maybe you don’t know quite how to name why you feel this way or how to talk about it. Here is the good news - therapy is the place to explore the challenging thoughts and feelings you're having. I’ve worked in the mental health field since 2016, helping people of all ages, backgrounds, and challenges. I approach mental health challenges with a holistic mindset to help identify what we can change, inside of our control, and to increase resilience.
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and exhausted constantly? Isolated and alone because you don’t want to burden your friends or family with your problems? Or maybe you don’t know quite how to name why you feel this way or how to talk about it. Here is the good news - therapy is the place to explore the challenging thoughts and feelings you're having. I’ve worked in the mental health field since 2016, helping people of all ages, backgrounds, and challenges. I approach mental health challenges with a holistic mindset to help identify what we can change, inside of our control, and to increase resilience.
(984) 600-7280 View (984) 600-7280
Photo of Steffie M Beard, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Forest City, NC
Steffie M Beard
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
I offer a safe gender affirming, body acceptance, feminist, and multicultural approach in therapy that focuses on the whole person. Humanistic (whole person) psychology often refers to a therapy modality that emphasizes focus on the entire scope of the individual supporting clients in achieving a deeper understanding and connection with their true self. My ultimate goal is for the client to feel seen and heard through an empathetic, safe, and unbiased environment.
I offer a safe gender affirming, body acceptance, feminist, and multicultural approach in therapy that focuses on the whole person. Humanistic (whole person) psychology often refers to a therapy modality that emphasizes focus on the entire scope of the individual supporting clients in achieving a deeper understanding and connection with their true self. My ultimate goal is for the client to feel seen and heard through an empathetic, safe, and unbiased environment.
(704) 742-2402 View (704) 742-2402
Photo of La Vida Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Forest City, NC
La Vida Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Our team of therapists are ready to help for individual or couples counseling! We offer in person and virtual session! Specialties include but not limited to: trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems and transitions into college. Please visit our website at www.lavidacounseling.com for more details about our therapists and services we offer. We offer counseling services and Immigration Evaluations to clients from age 5 years-Adult and video sessions and in person sessions. ¡Se habla Español!
Our team of therapists are ready to help for individual or couples counseling! We offer in person and virtual session! Specialties include but not limited to: trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems and transitions into college. Please visit our website at www.lavidacounseling.com for more details about our therapists and services we offer. We offer counseling services and Immigration Evaluations to clients from age 5 years-Adult and video sessions and in person sessions. ¡Se habla Español!
(704) 935-4208 View (704) 935-4208
Photo of Amber St. Germain in Forest City, NC
Amber St. Germain
MA MFT
Verified Verified
Woodfin, NC 28804
Sometimes you can have it all in life except what you want more than anything: your heart's deepest desires. For some of us that can look like not having the relationship you want, the marriage you want, not having the health you want, not being able to get pregnant or not being able to have the kind of fulfilling and rewarding work that you want no matter how hard you try. That's where I can help. When working hard and doing everything right isn't working it's time to play and make miracles happen and make it fun. Are you attracted to unavailable people? Are you in an unhappy relationship? Finally get the love you deserve.
Sometimes you can have it all in life except what you want more than anything: your heart's deepest desires. For some of us that can look like not having the relationship you want, the marriage you want, not having the health you want, not being able to get pregnant or not being able to have the kind of fulfilling and rewarding work that you want no matter how hard you try. That's where I can help. When working hard and doing everything right isn't working it's time to play and make miracles happen and make it fun. Are you attracted to unavailable people? Are you in an unhappy relationship? Finally get the love you deserve.
(828) 373-1727 View (828) 373-1727
Photo of P & G Clinical Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Forest City, NC
P & G Clinical Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226  (Online Only)
We are accepting new patients! Hablamos y ofrecemos servicios en Español. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural professional who has worked with abused children, adolescents, adults and their families who have experienced trauma. I have also worked with individuals with other mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, impulse control, addiction disorders, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.).
We are accepting new patients! Hablamos y ofrecemos servicios en Español. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural professional who has worked with abused children, adolescents, adults and their families who have experienced trauma. I have also worked with individuals with other mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, impulse control, addiction disorders, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.).
(704) 207-0995 View (704) 207-0995

See more therapy options for Forest City

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.