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Online Therapists

Photo of Teresa Cox Mayle, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Franklin County, NC
Teresa Cox Mayle
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MSRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Gaston, NC 27832
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is a child, adolescent or adult who experiences anxiety, depression or confusion finding the right path.They have experienced trauma or emotional pain from complex life situations, medical issues, career situations, relationships or are overwhelmed by life. They seek guidance from someone with lived experience and special skills to ease their distress and help them find a way out. They need to feel someone cares while they new insights and coping strategies to find peace and move on with their life. They use these new insights and life skills guide them with new confidence through the next life adventure.
My ideal client is a child, adolescent or adult who experiences anxiety, depression or confusion finding the right path.They have experienced trauma or emotional pain from complex life situations, medical issues, career situations, relationships or are overwhelmed by life. They seek guidance from someone with lived experience and special skills to ease their distress and help them find a way out. They need to feel someone cares while they new insights and coping strategies to find peace and move on with their life. They use these new insights and life skills guide them with new confidence through the next life adventure.
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Photo of Alan Konell in Franklin County, NC
Alan Konell
MSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27516  (Online Only)
My ideal client is one who wants relief from stress, anxiety, guilt and/or shame, trauma, or chronic pain, but has not been able to achieve this. Typically, I can help people realize lasting desired change efficiently and effectively. Also, I have had great success helping people with phobias and fears and those who want improved relationships. My first goal is to do no harm. My second goal is to help clients realize desired goals while respecting and preserving what is already working in their lives.
My ideal client is one who wants relief from stress, anxiety, guilt and/or shame, trauma, or chronic pain, but has not been able to achieve this. Typically, I can help people realize lasting desired change efficiently and effectively. Also, I have had great success helping people with phobias and fears and those who want improved relationships. My first goal is to do no harm. My second goal is to help clients realize desired goals while respecting and preserving what is already working in their lives.
(919) 804-1347 View (919) 804-1347
Photo of Triangle Wellness and Recovery PLLC in Franklin 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 Hannah Lingafelt, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Franklin County, NC
Hannah Lingafelt
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, MMT, LCMHC, MT-BC, FAMI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
Waitlist for new clients
To be human is to experience great joy and great pain; sensitive people feel that pain on a deep level that can be overwhelming. Whether your pain stems from traumatic experiences, attachment wounds, or emotional needs that aren’t being met, therapy can help you sit with the pain while still building a meaningful and rich life. Therapy can help you claim your sensitivity for what it is--an exquisite gift to be honored instead of an overwhelming enemy.
To be human is to experience great joy and great pain; sensitive people feel that pain on a deep level that can be overwhelming. Whether your pain stems from traumatic experiences, attachment wounds, or emotional needs that aren’t being met, therapy can help you sit with the pain while still building a meaningful and rich life. Therapy can help you claim your sensitivity for what it is--an exquisite gift to be honored instead of an overwhelming enemy.
(828) 374-1075 View (828) 374-1075
Photo of Dan Chartier, Psychologist in Franklin County, NC
Dan Chartier
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
Dan Chartier, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist- Health Service Provider, Raleigh, NC has been in private practice since 1983. As a psychotherapist, in addition to "talk therapy", Dr. Chartier uses psychophysiological methods of biofeedback and neurofeedback to facilitate mind-body healing. In his work, deepening awareness and release of non-productive behaviors is a primary process. By learning to enter neutral emotional space clients come to more clearly recognize options and choices that result in improved health. In addition to treating clients with psychological and emotional distress, Dr. Chartier works with patients coping with chronic pain or recovering from brain injury.
Dan Chartier, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist- Health Service Provider, Raleigh, NC has been in private practice since 1983. As a psychotherapist, in addition to "talk therapy", Dr. Chartier uses psychophysiological methods of biofeedback and neurofeedback to facilitate mind-body healing. In his work, deepening awareness and release of non-productive behaviors is a primary process. By learning to enter neutral emotional space clients come to more clearly recognize options and choices that result in improved health. In addition to treating clients with psychological and emotional distress, Dr. Chartier works with patients coping with chronic pain or recovering from brain injury.
(252) 349-0938 View (252) 349-0938
Photo of Jaclyn Sappah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin County, NC
Jaclyn Sappah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278  (Online Only)
Are you searching for a way to feel better, to feel good enough? Maybe you are longing to love and accept yourself, to feel secure within yourself? You might realize that work, relationships, and/or overindulging in food or alcohol is not doing the trick. Dealing with ongoing family issues, sadness from loss, comparing yourself to your friends, and always putting yourself last might be overwhelming. Maybe you hope to make peace with your past traumas and be able to move forward freely. Are you drawn toward the mind-body-spirit healing approach and ready to get to the root of your trauma and emotional pain?
Are you searching for a way to feel better, to feel good enough? Maybe you are longing to love and accept yourself, to feel secure within yourself? You might realize that work, relationships, and/or overindulging in food or alcohol is not doing the trick. Dealing with ongoing family issues, sadness from loss, comparing yourself to your friends, and always putting yourself last might be overwhelming. Maybe you hope to make peace with your past traumas and be able to move forward freely. Are you drawn toward the mind-body-spirit healing approach and ready to get to the root of your trauma and emotional pain?
(347) 625-1110 View (347) 625-1110
Photo of Valarie Anne Snell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin County, NC
Valarie Anne Snell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
Waitlist for new clients
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
(336) 754-2119 x228 View (336) 754-2119 x228
Photo of Nancy K Holliman, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Franklin County, NC
Nancy K Holliman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701
Waitlist for new clients
Personal issues such as anxiety, difficulties with food, a new medical diagnosis, depression, or dealing with a chronic illness or condition may be making you feel like life is one big struggle. Whether you have these sorts of problems or other concerns that are making your life hard or even unbearable, change is always possible if you are willing to work and you have the support you need. I offer that support. I have 4 years of experience serving adolescents and adults with eating disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, depression, trauma, PTSD, and mood disorders. I would be honored to work with you around whatever difficulties you may be facing. Together we will discover new perspectives and skills that will enable you to develop deeper awareness so that you can handle whatever life brings you and thrive.
Personal issues such as anxiety, difficulties with food, a new medical diagnosis, depression, or dealing with a chronic illness or condition may be making you feel like life is one big struggle. Whether you have these sorts of problems or other concerns that are making your life hard or even unbearable, change is always possible if you are willing to work and you have the support you need. I offer that support. I have 4 years of experience serving adolescents and adults with eating disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, depression, trauma, PTSD, and mood disorders. I would be honored to work with you around whatever difficulties you may be facing. Together we will discover new perspectives and skills that will enable you to develop deeper awareness so that you can handle whatever life brings you and thrive.
(984) 205-4658 View (984) 205-4658
Photo of Gina Roberts, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Franklin County, NC
Gina Roberts
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
Recognizing that not all of one’s deepest pain and longing is merely personal, but arises in relationship to the bias, prejudice, and privilege of the dominant culture, I am committed to honoring the dignity, diversity, courage, and shared humanity of all who seek my services.
Whether hope or discouragement bring you to this site, it is my privilege to offer you a sanctuary of solace, deep listening, and confidential guidance. Maybe you feel stuck or directionless? Are you needing support and guidance through a life transition, grief, illness, a troubled relationship, spiritual crisis or broken dreams? Whatever your concerns -- past or present, large or small, clear or vaguely defined, personal or interpersonal -- our experience together is designed to help you discover the inherent possibility, healing & change available to you as you embrace life more fully from the wisdom of who you truly are.
Recognizing that not all of one’s deepest pain and longing is merely personal, but arises in relationship to the bias, prejudice, and privilege of the dominant culture, I am committed to honoring the dignity, diversity, courage, and shared humanity of all who seek my services.
Whether hope or discouragement bring you to this site, it is my privilege to offer you a sanctuary of solace, deep listening, and confidential guidance. Maybe you feel stuck or directionless? Are you needing support and guidance through a life transition, grief, illness, a troubled relationship, spiritual crisis or broken dreams? Whatever your concerns -- past or present, large or small, clear or vaguely defined, personal or interpersonal -- our experience together is designed to help you discover the inherent possibility, healing & change available to you as you embrace life more fully from the wisdom of who you truly are.
(919) 813-7285 View (919) 813-7285
Photo of Meg Barry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin County, NC
Meg Barry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27712
Waitlist for new clients
8-9 Month Waitlist-You matter and you are enough! I am a trauma therapist whose approach is integrative and honors each client’s unique emotional system. I believe that creating safety in client-counselor relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. I greet each client with warmth, understanding, and non-judgement, drawing on each client’s strength and inner wisdom to bring about change in their lives. I am passionate about working with adults with a history of trauma, attachment trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and auto-immune/chronic pain.
8-9 Month Waitlist-You matter and you are enough! I am a trauma therapist whose approach is integrative and honors each client’s unique emotional system. I believe that creating safety in client-counselor relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. I greet each client with warmth, understanding, and non-judgement, drawing on each client’s strength and inner wisdom to bring about change in their lives. I am passionate about working with adults with a history of trauma, attachment trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and auto-immune/chronic pain.
(919) 726-0565 View (919) 726-0565
Photo of Kathy Murray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin County, NC
Kathy Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, Somatic
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
As a Somatic Therapist, I believe that everyone has within them an inner wisdom and inner healing power that is their natural birthright. My role is to help create the environment for that inner genius to arise and find itself. When this is done, new meaning, purpose and life narratives can be discovered and lived out. I have wide experience assisting individuals in managing a variety of behavioral and emotional concerns including trauma, chronic pain and health issues, difficult life transitions, weight management, anxiety, depression, and stress management.
As a Somatic Therapist, I believe that everyone has within them an inner wisdom and inner healing power that is their natural birthright. My role is to help create the environment for that inner genius to arise and find itself. When this is done, new meaning, purpose and life narratives can be discovered and lived out. I have wide experience assisting individuals in managing a variety of behavioral and emotional concerns including trauma, chronic pain and health issues, difficult life transitions, weight management, anxiety, depression, and stress management.
(919) 276-8754 View (919) 276-8754
Photo of Sarah Harrocks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin County, NC
Sarah Harrocks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMBT
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
We are all journeying through life. At times the path you are traveling becomes unclear and may require action to move the debris blocking your way. Debris may show up as depression, anxiety, self-doubt, or even fear. There may also have been something along your journey which caused you great pain that could be hindering your ability to move forward in life. Counseling can support you with clearing the way so that you may see yourself and your path more clearly, allowing you to live the life you most desire.
We are all journeying through life. At times the path you are traveling becomes unclear and may require action to move the debris blocking your way. Debris may show up as depression, anxiety, self-doubt, or even fear. There may also have been something along your journey which caused you great pain that could be hindering your ability to move forward in life. Counseling can support you with clearing the way so that you may see yourself and your path more clearly, allowing you to live the life you most desire.
(919) 858-6073 View (919) 858-6073
Photo of Cynthia D Hughes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin County, NC
Cynthia D Hughes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive training in bereavement, chronic and terminal illness, and trauma.
Good psychotherapy requires a "match" between client(s) and therapist and avoids "stretching the client to fit the couch." Finding the right psychotherapist involves both clinical skill and personality match. A good therapist is genuine, warm, and offers a human relationship with active listening, guidance, and good advice. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, what I offer as a clinician is an active style of psychotherapy with a high regard for where you are in your journey, what your goals are, and what things can be pointed out and changed along the path to growth and improved relationships.
I have extensive training in bereavement, chronic and terminal illness, and trauma.
Good psychotherapy requires a "match" between client(s) and therapist and avoids "stretching the client to fit the couch." Finding the right psychotherapist involves both clinical skill and personality match. A good therapist is genuine, warm, and offers a human relationship with active listening, guidance, and good advice. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, what I offer as a clinician is an active style of psychotherapy with a high regard for where you are in your journey, what your goals are, and what things can be pointed out and changed along the path to growth and improved relationships.
(984) 203-6882 View (984) 203-6882
Photo of Christi Bemister, PsyD, PLLC, Psychologist in Franklin County, NC
Christi Bemister, PsyD, PLLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526  (Online Only)
I am a trauma informed therapist, with 30+ years’ experience, my own healing journey, and clinical education focused on chronic pain & illness.
I invite you to a safe and compassionate space to untangle and release difficulties that interfere with your quality or functioning in life. Taking a look at hurts can help normalize and clarify confusing or negative behavior, thoughts, and emotions to integrate past experiences. Embodiment, mindfulness, and somatic experiential practices lead you to gain physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. These practical techniques, along with education, and therapeutic processing will guide you along your path to integrated health and the resilience needed to manage the most stressful circumstances. You become your own best friend.
I am a trauma informed therapist, with 30+ years’ experience, my own healing journey, and clinical education focused on chronic pain & illness.
I invite you to a safe and compassionate space to untangle and release difficulties that interfere with your quality or functioning in life. Taking a look at hurts can help normalize and clarify confusing or negative behavior, thoughts, and emotions to integrate past experiences. Embodiment, mindfulness, and somatic experiential practices lead you to gain physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. These practical techniques, along with education, and therapeutic processing will guide you along your path to integrated health and the resilience needed to manage the most stressful circumstances. You become your own best friend.
(734) 796-1686 View (734) 796-1686
Photo of Rachel Garfield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Franklin County, NC
Rachel Garfield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
All pain creates stress which intensifies the pain, becoming a vicious cycle that can lead to anxiety and depression, disruptive relations with others, and despair.
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addiction and relationships with adults with the goal of healing the client's relationship within themselves and with others. We will work through your past to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
All pain creates stress which intensifies the pain, becoming a vicious cycle that can lead to anxiety and depression, disruptive relations with others, and despair.
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addiction and relationships with adults with the goal of healing the client's relationship within themselves and with others. We will work through your past to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
(919) 535-4925 View (919) 535-4925
Photo of Jennifer C Franklin, Psychologist in Franklin County, NC
Jennifer C Franklin
Psychologist, PhD, MACP
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705
Waitlist for new clients
I work best with adult individuals and couples who wish to address any of the following: anxiety; mind-body issues like IBS, chronic pain, back pain, etc; stress and trauma; relationship difficulties, life transitions, cultural differences, or spiritual issues; and depression. Therapy is individualized, determined by each client's personal needs, interests, and goals. My aim is to support and guide each person through his or her own unique journey towards greater health, wellness, wholeness, peace, satisfaction, and fulfillment. My work is guided by a holistic, mindfulness-based approach, resulting in gradual yet sustainable change.
I work best with adult individuals and couples who wish to address any of the following: anxiety; mind-body issues like IBS, chronic pain, back pain, etc; stress and trauma; relationship difficulties, life transitions, cultural differences, or spiritual issues; and depression. Therapy is individualized, determined by each client's personal needs, interests, and goals. My aim is to support and guide each person through his or her own unique journey towards greater health, wellness, wholeness, peace, satisfaction, and fulfillment. My work is guided by a holistic, mindfulness-based approach, resulting in gradual yet sustainable change.
(310) 421-2756 View (310) 421-2756
Photo of Sacred Listener, Counselor in Franklin County, NC
Sacred Listener
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I also have experience as a hospital chaplain and am honored to help those dealing with chronic illness, grief, and loss.
Are you a generally healthy person, looking for guidance in how to live your life in the healthiest and happiest way? Whether your challenges are in the realm of finances, relationships, work satisfaction, anxiety, or depression, transpersonal counseling can help you! If you are looking for a therapist that can include your spiritual beliefs and include those in your treatment, and if you enjoy varied approaches to mental health and happiness such as art, yoga, and meditation, I might be the therapist for you!
I also have experience as a hospital chaplain and am honored to help those dealing with chronic illness, grief, and loss.
Are you a generally healthy person, looking for guidance in how to live your life in the healthiest and happiest way? Whether your challenges are in the realm of finances, relationships, work satisfaction, anxiety, or depression, transpersonal counseling can help you! If you are looking for a therapist that can include your spiritual beliefs and include those in your treatment, and if you enjoy varied approaches to mental health and happiness such as art, yoga, and meditation, I might be the therapist for you!
(919) 335-6734 View (919) 335-6734
Photo of Rafia Rebeck, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors in Franklin County, NC
Rafia Rebeck
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors, MA, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
My approach to therapy is gentle, perceptive, and honest. Utilizing contemporary neuroscience and traditional mindfulness, I cultivate a therapeutic environment that is ripe for transformation, health, and joy. Clients appreciate my warmth, authenticity, and the sense of safety that I create. I enjoy supporting my clients in exploring core beliefs that have been limiting their freedom. As a practitioner, I value all avenues of experience (thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, memories, images, and dreams) as valid pathways into the inner world.
My approach to therapy is gentle, perceptive, and honest. Utilizing contemporary neuroscience and traditional mindfulness, I cultivate a therapeutic environment that is ripe for transformation, health, and joy. Clients appreciate my warmth, authenticity, and the sense of safety that I create. I enjoy supporting my clients in exploring core beliefs that have been limiting their freedom. As a practitioner, I value all avenues of experience (thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, memories, images, and dreams) as valid pathways into the inner world.
(984) 203-9088 View (984) 203-9088
Photo of Mitchell Bloom; Medical Hypnosis in Franklin County, NC
Mitchell Bloom; Medical Hypnosis
MD, CHT, BCH
Not Verified Not Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
Dr. Bloom gave up a lucrative medical career to treat the root psychological components of physical, emotional, and spiritual conditions. In his 35 years of practicing medicine he found that the mind-body connection is very real, and is the invisible cause of many seemingly untreatable medical conditions. He found that by correcting root unconscious causes of diseases, many chronic medical conditions can improve. This can be seen in the numerous clinical studies which can be found at rootcausehypnosis.online/education/hypnosis-studies
Dr. Bloom gave up a lucrative medical career to treat the root psychological components of physical, emotional, and spiritual conditions. In his 35 years of practicing medicine he found that the mind-body connection is very real, and is the invisible cause of many seemingly untreatable medical conditions. He found that by correcting root unconscious causes of diseases, many chronic medical conditions can improve. This can be seen in the numerous clinical studies which can be found at rootcausehypnosis.online/education/hypnosis-studies
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Photo of James C. Carpenter, Psychologist in Franklin County, NC
James C. Carpenter
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Suffering draws us to consider therapy, much as it sends us to any doctor. The suffering therapy focuses on is emotional and existential (a LIFE that is out of whack). If you are considering therapy it means that you take your suffering seriously and wish to seek a more fulfilling life. You know instinctively that more is possible. I have many years of experience in helping people to develop greater strength and more fulfilling relationships.
Suffering draws us to consider therapy, much as it sends us to any doctor. The suffering therapy focuses on is emotional and existential (a LIFE that is out of whack). If you are considering therapy it means that you take your suffering seriously and wish to seek a more fulfilling life. You know instinctively that more is possible. I have many years of experience in helping people to develop greater strength and more fulfilling relationships.
(919) 234-5209 View (919) 234-5209

See more therapy options for Franklin 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.