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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garner, NC
Lisa Lavelle Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27602  (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 Kathy Murray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garner, NC
Kathy Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, Somatic
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601  (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 InBloom Relationship Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garner, NC
InBloom Relationship Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27603
{{{{ ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS }}}} Good therapy begins with a strong relationship between therapist and client, and I believe that creating this empathic connection is one of my greatest strengths. I provide a client-centered, strength-based, affirmative approach that is warm and welcoming — a safe space where clients can share, process, and experience their thoughts and emotions. I am committed to meeting clients where they would like to begin their journey, working collaboratively toward healing, acceptance, purpose, well-being, and fulfillment.
{{{{ ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS }}}} Good therapy begins with a strong relationship between therapist and client, and I believe that creating this empathic connection is one of my greatest strengths. I provide a client-centered, strength-based, affirmative approach that is warm and welcoming — a safe space where clients can share, process, and experience their thoughts and emotions. I am committed to meeting clients where they would like to begin their journey, working collaboratively toward healing, acceptance, purpose, well-being, and fulfillment.
(919) 582-5999 View (919) 582-5999
Photo of Jennifer Gural, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Garner, NC
Jennifer Gural
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LPC, LAADC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
I help clients understand their behaviors, habits, addictions, and attitudes. I utilize evidenced-based therapies and motivational enhancement techniques to assist clients in shedding the behaviors and habits that have been holding while facilitating work towards positive life change and goal achievement. In addition to my focus on addiction, I work with a variety of other mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I also serve as leader and facilitator of addiction groups, support groups, mindfulness groups and moderation management groups at Coast Psychological Services.
I help clients understand their behaviors, habits, addictions, and attitudes. I utilize evidenced-based therapies and motivational enhancement techniques to assist clients in shedding the behaviors and habits that have been holding while facilitating work towards positive life change and goal achievement. In addition to my focus on addiction, I work with a variety of other mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I also serve as leader and facilitator of addiction groups, support groups, mindfulness groups and moderation management groups at Coast Psychological Services.
(424) 347-8344 View (424) 347-8344
Photo of Lysle E Betts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garner, NC
Lysle E Betts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC , NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
If you are drawn to life's big questions, to wholistic approaches, to self reflection, to relational depth, to issues of meaning and purpose, & view people as too complex to fit in neat & easy categories, then the type of therapy I practice might be appealing & appropriate for you. Person-centered, depth-oriented individual psychotherapy is what I have practiced since 1995. It is an honor to aid my clients in the journey inward that can help their inner & outer lives become/be rich and satisfying experiences of growth & discovery, that generate ever deepening self understanding, life satisfaction, & passionate engagement with life.
If you are drawn to life's big questions, to wholistic approaches, to self reflection, to relational depth, to issues of meaning and purpose, & view people as too complex to fit in neat & easy categories, then the type of therapy I practice might be appealing & appropriate for you. Person-centered, depth-oriented individual psychotherapy is what I have practiced since 1995. It is an honor to aid my clients in the journey inward that can help their inner & outer lives become/be rich and satisfying experiences of growth & discovery, that generate ever deepening self understanding, life satisfaction, & passionate engagement with life.
(919) 299-0062 View (919) 299-0062
Photo of Samantha Boyce, Counselor in Garner, NC
Samantha Boyce
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, REAT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
Waitlist for new clients
My clients reach out because they need support during a time of transition, are struggling with anxiety or depression, or want to address past traumas. I work with teens, adults and kids to help them cope with stress and respond to suffering. My clients report relief at being able to express themselves freely and feel seen. They enjoy the opportunity to use creative arts in the therapy space, especially as the arts are uniquely positioned to respond to trauma. No art experience is necessary to benefit from expressive arts therapy. If you're open, and if you've ever used a crayon or listened to music, that's all you need.
My clients reach out because they need support during a time of transition, are struggling with anxiety or depression, or want to address past traumas. I work with teens, adults and kids to help them cope with stress and respond to suffering. My clients report relief at being able to express themselves freely and feel seen. They enjoy the opportunity to use creative arts in the therapy space, especially as the arts are uniquely positioned to respond to trauma. No art experience is necessary to benefit from expressive arts therapy. If you're open, and if you've ever used a crayon or listened to music, that's all you need.
(919) 328-2290 View (919) 328-2290

Online Therapists

Photo of Gina Roberts, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Garner, 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 Valarie Anne Snell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garner, 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 Bridget Pemberton-Smith, Art Therapist in Garner, NC
Bridget Pemberton-Smith
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510
As an expressive arts therapist, I promote the healing power of the arts and am dedicated to helping my clients discover their strengths and healing potential. I love being able to walk with people on their healing journies, guiding them through transitions and periods of growth. I have worked with a variety of people including children with physical illness, at-risk adolescents, adults with mental illness, seniors both with and without dementia, refugees and immigrants and as a supervisor for art therapists seeking art therapy registration. I have worked in schools, hospitals, retirement centers and mental health agencies.
As an expressive arts therapist, I promote the healing power of the arts and am dedicated to helping my clients discover their strengths and healing potential. I love being able to walk with people on their healing journies, guiding them through transitions and periods of growth. I have worked with a variety of people including children with physical illness, at-risk adolescents, adults with mental illness, seniors both with and without dementia, refugees and immigrants and as a supervisor for art therapists seeking art therapy registration. I have worked in schools, hospitals, retirement centers and mental health agencies.
(919) 925-4191 View (919) 925-4191
Photo of Rachel Garfield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Garner, NC
Rachel Garfield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
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 Becky Shaffer, Counselor in Garner, NC
Becky Shaffer
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Life is not always easy, but I believe we all have the strength within us to grow, adapt, and heal. My goal is to create a safe space for you to uncover your own resilience and cultivate a sense of meaning and purpose in this life. I primarily work with adults of all ages facing a variety of concerns such as: anxiety, panic, mild-to-moderate depression, grief and loss, OCD, chronic and terminal physical illness, relational/family stressors, and difficulties related to addiction. I am able to integrate faith and spirituality into counseling if so desired.
Life is not always easy, but I believe we all have the strength within us to grow, adapt, and heal. My goal is to create a safe space for you to uncover your own resilience and cultivate a sense of meaning and purpose in this life. I primarily work with adults of all ages facing a variety of concerns such as: anxiety, panic, mild-to-moderate depression, grief and loss, OCD, chronic and terminal physical illness, relational/family stressors, and difficulties related to addiction. I am able to integrate faith and spirituality into counseling if so desired.
(919) 679-9515 View (919) 679-9515
Photo of Andrea Miesmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garner, NC
Andrea Miesmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
Waitlist for new clients
Are you overwhelmed with anxiety, have fear about significant life changes, or struggle in relationships or socially? I can assist you with gaining confidence in connecting with yourself and others, discovering more ease in decision making and with exploring life's possibilities. My counseling focuses on guiding you through the process of re-working your brain's negative feedback loops to ultimately reshape your life. The goal of my work is for you to feel relief and confidence in your resilience.
Are you overwhelmed with anxiety, have fear about significant life changes, or struggle in relationships or socially? I can assist you with gaining confidence in connecting with yourself and others, discovering more ease in decision making and with exploring life's possibilities. My counseling focuses on guiding you through the process of re-working your brain's negative feedback loops to ultimately reshape your life. The goal of my work is for you to feel relief and confidence in your resilience.
(919) 705-0948 View (919) 705-0948
Photo of E. Brooke Barnard, Counselor in Garner, NC
E. Brooke Barnard
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I have an avid interest in helping children, adults, and families dealing with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental and/or physical challenges, and Academically Gifted and Talented. I also specialize in supporting clients and families coping with chronic and/or serious illnesses. Siblings, who are often overlooked in these families, are of special concern to me. Depression, anxiety and grief and loss issues due to death, divorce and other life changes hold a special interest for me as well.
I have an avid interest in helping children, adults, and families dealing with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental and/or physical challenges, and Academically Gifted and Talented. I also specialize in supporting clients and families coping with chronic and/or serious illnesses. Siblings, who are often overlooked in these families, are of special concern to me. Depression, anxiety and grief and loss issues due to death, divorce and other life changes hold a special interest for me as well.
(336) 790-4638 View (336) 790-4638
Photo of Christina L Stakely, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garner, NC
Christina L Stakely
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28546
My extensive experience includes working with service members/veterans and their families as well as children ages birth-five and their families. I enjoy working with adults with infertility issues and women or men who have experienced sexual trauma. I also work with adolescents who have different mental health challenges. My desire is to help you and your family learn how to express who you are and to experience growth. I hope to help you and your family with developing good intuition, creating healthy connections, and becoming more of your authentic self (selves). I want you to experience more joy and peace within your life.
My extensive experience includes working with service members/veterans and their families as well as children ages birth-five and their families. I enjoy working with adults with infertility issues and women or men who have experienced sexual trauma. I also work with adolescents who have different mental health challenges. My desire is to help you and your family learn how to express who you are and to experience growth. I hope to help you and your family with developing good intuition, creating healthy connections, and becoming more of your authentic self (selves). I want you to experience more joy and peace within your life.
(910) 387-4267 View (910) 387-4267
Photo of Thrive Counseling & Consulting PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Garner, NC
Thrive Counseling & Consulting PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMHC, LMFT, MSW, LCAS, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28304
Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We all experience moments that leave us feeling hopeless, sad, frustrated, angry, or frightened. However, life is not meant to be lived in that place of darkness. While we can't change the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Using complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will help unearth old behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're ready to take steps forward, we are ready to help.
Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We all experience moments that leave us feeling hopeless, sad, frustrated, angry, or frightened. However, life is not meant to be lived in that place of darkness. While we can't change the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Using complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will help unearth old behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're ready to take steps forward, we are ready to help.
(910) 483-5884 View (910) 483-5884
Photo of Summer Pittman, LCSW Associate in Garner, NC
Summer Pittman
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
Hi there! If you’ve landed on my page, there’s a high chance the universe brought you here to continue your healing journey! Welcome! Let me tell you a little about what our work together will look like! In our pursuit to your highest self and life situation, we’ll explore your subconscious and work to increase your awareness and resilience through compassionate curiosity of your emotions, identities, beliefs, interpersonal relationships, past experiences, and habitual patterns.
Hi there! If you’ve landed on my page, there’s a high chance the universe brought you here to continue your healing journey! Welcome! Let me tell you a little about what our work together will look like! In our pursuit to your highest self and life situation, we’ll explore your subconscious and work to increase your awareness and resilience through compassionate curiosity of your emotions, identities, beliefs, interpersonal relationships, past experiences, and habitual patterns.
(984) 985-2241 View (984) 985-2241
Photo of Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Garner, NC
Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCASA, CEO
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
(336) 502-8218 View (336) 502-8218
Photo of Kirsten Newell-Marino, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Garner, NC
Kirsten Newell-Marino
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, LCMHC-A, NCC, AAT-I
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I have always had an interest in not only how our minds, bodies, and spirits are connected, but also what takes place when an imbalance exists and then how to implore healing. I look at an individual through a holistic lens, and use this approach, when appropriate. A part of this holistic approach, I have the belief that as a part of the world and universe in which we live, that we are all, interconnected and operate as a part of a dynamic system. I am especially interested in how mindfulness practices, yoga, animals, and nature, might influence the ideas of acceptance and non-judgment, and overall, positively affect an individual.
I have always had an interest in not only how our minds, bodies, and spirits are connected, but also what takes place when an imbalance exists and then how to implore healing. I look at an individual through a holistic lens, and use this approach, when appropriate. A part of this holistic approach, I have the belief that as a part of the world and universe in which we live, that we are all, interconnected and operate as a part of a dynamic system. I am especially interested in how mindfulness practices, yoga, animals, and nature, might influence the ideas of acceptance and non-judgment, and overall, positively affect an individual.
(857) 816-7070 View (857) 816-7070
Photo of Amanda Chils, Licensed Professional Counselor in Garner, NC
Amanda Chils
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Ramseur, NC 27316
You can grow and heal, despite what you've been through (think flowers blooming through concrete). You're going to feel so much better once you start digging the rot out and healing. I'm an expert at clearing trauma and anxiety, by rewiring your mind and regulating your nervous system. Not only does trauma get healed and processed, but when hard things come up you they feel easy to navigate and you do so with confidence + ease. I don't believe healing has to be hard or take forever, in fact I believe it can be light + fun. With me, you're gonna work but you're also going to laugh and learn to savor this one wild and precious life.
You can grow and heal, despite what you've been through (think flowers blooming through concrete). You're going to feel so much better once you start digging the rot out and healing. I'm an expert at clearing trauma and anxiety, by rewiring your mind and regulating your nervous system. Not only does trauma get healed and processed, but when hard things come up you they feel easy to navigate and you do so with confidence + ease. I don't believe healing has to be hard or take forever, in fact I believe it can be light + fun. With me, you're gonna work but you're also going to laugh and learn to savor this one wild and precious life.
(336) 777-7286 View (336) 777-7286
Photo of Jessica Jeremiah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Garner, NC
Jessica Jeremiah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Mebane, NC 27302
Every person I serve has a unique story. While some clients experience challenges in just one area, most experience difficulty multiple areas (mental health, trauma, loss, addiction), creating a complex, vicious cycle if not all parts are addressed. The circumstances that bring someone to therapy do not come in 'neat little packages.' I enjoy sorting out the pieces with each client, getting to the root of the issue, and offering a combination of evidence-based therapeutic interventions that help clients finally begin to experience relief, and start living a happier, more fulfilled life.
Every person I serve has a unique story. While some clients experience challenges in just one area, most experience difficulty multiple areas (mental health, trauma, loss, addiction), creating a complex, vicious cycle if not all parts are addressed. The circumstances that bring someone to therapy do not come in 'neat little packages.' I enjoy sorting out the pieces with each client, getting to the root of the issue, and offering a combination of evidence-based therapeutic interventions that help clients finally begin to experience relief, and start living a happier, more fulfilled life.
(919) 585-5163 View (919) 585-5163
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.