Photo of Gilded Peace Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in Greensboro, NC
Gilded Peace Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408  (Online Only)
Brainspotting and restorative yoga are also offered as additional therapeutic outlets for those living with trauma, dissociation, compulsive behaviors, anxiety, and chronic pain.
Gilded Peace Counseling is BIPOC owned/operated, LGBTQIA+ affirming, a supporter of the healthy at any size community, poly & ethical non-monogamy friendly, sex-positive, and kink-competent. GPC offers counseling for all walks of life and has specialized experience counseling clients with intergenerational trauma, sexual and/or religious trauma, chronic illnesses, and hidden disabilities. We are passionate about members of minority, marginalized, and divergent communities being heard and seen, as intersectionality should only make voices louder.
Brainspotting and restorative yoga are also offered as additional therapeutic outlets for those living with trauma, dissociation, compulsive behaviors, anxiety, and chronic pain.
Gilded Peace Counseling is BIPOC owned/operated, LGBTQIA+ affirming, a supporter of the healthy at any size community, poly & ethical non-monogamy friendly, sex-positive, and kink-competent. GPC offers counseling for all walks of life and has specialized experience counseling clients with intergenerational trauma, sexual and/or religious trauma, chronic illnesses, and hidden disabilities. We are passionate about members of minority, marginalized, and divergent communities being heard and seen, as intersectionality should only make voices louder.
(336) 276-0138 View (336) 276-0138
Photo of Tia Hunter, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Greensboro, NC
Tia Hunter
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408  (Online Only)
Working to ensure members of communities such as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, chronic illness, and hidden disabilities feel heard and seen is a daily goal.
I strive to create an environment for each client that is as liberating as it is welcoming to inspire a growth mindset. Our sessions have a person-centered foundation and incorporate approaches such as CBT, Somatic, ACT, Existential, Narrative, Brainspotting, and yoga-based therapies as needed. I find that the methods listed help foster a growth mindset and allow clients to reflect on their experiences and explore their goals and values at a pace that suits them. Sessions, treatment planning, and goals are the result of our partnership, and it's important that you always feel comfortable in the design of your care.
Working to ensure members of communities such as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, chronic illness, and hidden disabilities feel heard and seen is a daily goal.
I strive to create an environment for each client that is as liberating as it is welcoming to inspire a growth mindset. Our sessions have a person-centered foundation and incorporate approaches such as CBT, Somatic, ACT, Existential, Narrative, Brainspotting, and yoga-based therapies as needed. I find that the methods listed help foster a growth mindset and allow clients to reflect on their experiences and explore their goals and values at a pace that suits them. Sessions, treatment planning, and goals are the result of our partnership, and it's important that you always feel comfortable in the design of your care.
(336) 606-1652 View (336) 606-1652
Photo of Austin Chandler, Psychologist in Greensboro, NC
Austin Chandler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27455  (Online Only)
I help clients cope with the choices, chances, and challenges they encounter by emphasizing resilience and effective coping strategies. Specific therapy focuses on stress, depression, self-esteem and goal achievements, enabling every client to become more relaxed, happy, successful and obtain the life they deserve. Whatever you're feeling... remember Dr. Austin Chandler is just a phone call away.
I help clients cope with the choices, chances, and challenges they encounter by emphasizing resilience and effective coping strategies. Specific therapy focuses on stress, depression, self-esteem and goal achievements, enabling every client to become more relaxed, happy, successful and obtain the life they deserve. Whatever you're feeling... remember Dr. Austin Chandler is just a phone call away.
(336) 920-8563 View (336) 920-8563
Photo of Cherie Powers, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Greensboro, NC
Cherie Powers
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MS, MEd, NBCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401  (Online Only)
Virtual only, Day & Evening appointments. I believe that everyone has the power within themselves to move forward in their journey. Our feelings and behaviors are affected by the experiences and environments that are encountered. Together we will create a path that is designed to meet your needs and support your goals. Collectively, we will strive to find harmony, balance, and wellness through the mind, body, spirit connection. This will be achieved by using evidenced-based practices that honors each person’s resilience and exploration through a strength-based approach.
Virtual only, Day & Evening appointments. I believe that everyone has the power within themselves to move forward in their journey. Our feelings and behaviors are affected by the experiences and environments that are encountered. Together we will create a path that is designed to meet your needs and support your goals. Collectively, we will strive to find harmony, balance, and wellness through the mind, body, spirit connection. This will be achieved by using evidenced-based practices that honors each person’s resilience and exploration through a strength-based approach.
(336) 360-8744 View (336) 360-8744
Photo of J. Sophia Cory, Counselor in Greensboro, NC
J. Sophia Cory
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
Waitlist for new clients
Thanks for taking a look at my page! I'm a queer, trans, and neurodivergent counselor in Greensboro and Winston-Salem, NC. I'm passionate about helping others develop new skills, find self-acceptance, and engage in a process of personal transformation. Whatever you are bringing to the table, I am here to be with you in your experience and help you along the way. Through authentic, healing relationships, I believe that we can begin to let go of barriers that keep us distant from others and our sources of meaning in life.
Thanks for taking a look at my page! I'm a queer, trans, and neurodivergent counselor in Greensboro and Winston-Salem, NC. I'm passionate about helping others develop new skills, find self-acceptance, and engage in a process of personal transformation. Whatever you are bringing to the table, I am here to be with you in your experience and help you along the way. Through authentic, healing relationships, I believe that we can begin to let go of barriers that keep us distant from others and our sources of meaning in life.
(336) 649-4551 View (336) 649-4551
Photo of Sterling Thomas Grissom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Greensboro, NC
Sterling Thomas Grissom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
Are you a queer identifying person who is struggling with emotion dysregulation? Are you someone who is tired of "managing" day to day? Are you someone who wants to connect more with your body and your true self? As a DBT and EMDR therapist, I specialize in equipping individuals with effective tools to manage emotions, navigate relationships, and overcome trauma. By combining these evidence-based approaches, I create a supportive environment for personal growth. Let's embark on a transformative journey together!
Are you a queer identifying person who is struggling with emotion dysregulation? Are you someone who is tired of "managing" day to day? Are you someone who wants to connect more with your body and your true self? As a DBT and EMDR therapist, I specialize in equipping individuals with effective tools to manage emotions, navigate relationships, and overcome trauma. By combining these evidence-based approaches, I create a supportive environment for personal growth. Let's embark on a transformative journey together!
(336) 810-0496 View (336) 810-0496
Photo of Greenway Counseling & Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Greensboro, NC
Greenway Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCMHC, LCMHCA, LCASA, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27409
[Good news! Day, evening & Saturday openings are now available] As a group practice, we have a particular interest in helping our adult clients address traumas that may have occurred across their lifespan. Trauma can come in all shapes & sizes - we believe that trauma can be at the center of many concerns like anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, performance issues, & addiction, to name a few. We also love working with little ones, teens, and their families! Fears & worries, behavior problems, family & life changes, school & relationship struggles - these are just a few reasons why we see younger people & families.
[Good news! Day, evening & Saturday openings are now available] As a group practice, we have a particular interest in helping our adult clients address traumas that may have occurred across their lifespan. Trauma can come in all shapes & sizes - we believe that trauma can be at the center of many concerns like anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, performance issues, & addiction, to name a few. We also love working with little ones, teens, and their families! Fears & worries, behavior problems, family & life changes, school & relationship struggles - these are just a few reasons why we see younger people & families.
(336) 496-2361 View (336) 496-2361
Photo of House Call Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Greensboro, NC
House Call Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27406
Life is complicated, but finding support for your mental health doesn't have to be. At House Call Counseling, we bring the haven of therapy directly to you, whether it's over the phone or in your own home. Since 2018, we've been the Triad's trusted partner in mental well-being, offering our unique blend of home-based and telehealth therapy. Our compassionate therapists are just a click away, ready to guide you through life's challenges with personalized care.
Life is complicated, but finding support for your mental health doesn't have to be. At House Call Counseling, we bring the haven of therapy directly to you, whether it's over the phone or in your own home. Since 2018, we've been the Triad's trusted partner in mental well-being, offering our unique blend of home-based and telehealth therapy. Our compassionate therapists are just a click away, ready to guide you through life's challenges with personalized care.
(336) 221-3912 View (336) 221-3912
Photo of Beautiful Mind Behavioral Health Services, PLLC. in Greensboro, NC
Beautiful Mind Behavioral Health Services, PLLC.
PA-C, Chap
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410
We are here to serve clients ages 7 - 77, who are challenged by a multitude of behavioral health concerns to include substance use disorders, and complex mental health scenarios where both medical and psychiatric conditions coexist. Moreover, as a trained Healthcare Chaplain, I seek to provide incarnational care. The aim of " Beautiful Mind" is to be incarnational. Therefore, to provide a holistic treatment approach to all who call upon our services.
We are here to serve clients ages 7 - 77, who are challenged by a multitude of behavioral health concerns to include substance use disorders, and complex mental health scenarios where both medical and psychiatric conditions coexist. Moreover, as a trained Healthcare Chaplain, I seek to provide incarnational care. The aim of " Beautiful Mind" is to be incarnational. Therefore, to provide a holistic treatment approach to all who call upon our services.
(984) 464-7746 View (984) 464-7746
Photo of Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Greensboro, NC
Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCASA, CEO
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401
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

Online Therapists

Photo of Barbara Jean Lowe, Psychologist in Greensboro, NC
Barbara Jean Lowe
Psychologist, PhD, LP, BCC, SEP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Are you hurting, frustrated, or feel stuck? I honor your courage to seek wholeness & growth. I know you want relief. Enduring change through therapy can happen for you. Trauma, relationship challenges, family struggles & internal pain can be shifted! I welcome you into a space of honor, hope, safety, & power to change. I partner w/ you to achieve your goals for skillful living, belonging, & wholeness. I artfully employ therapeutic & scientific techniques that bring wellness to the heart & mind (SE, DBT, ART, CBT, IFS, EMDR, Gottman, EFT). Ages 5-75. I also offer faith integration upon request. I offer hourly sessions & intensives.
Are you hurting, frustrated, or feel stuck? I honor your courage to seek wholeness & growth. I know you want relief. Enduring change through therapy can happen for you. Trauma, relationship challenges, family struggles & internal pain can be shifted! I welcome you into a space of honor, hope, safety, & power to change. I partner w/ you to achieve your goals for skillful living, belonging, & wholeness. I artfully employ therapeutic & scientific techniques that bring wellness to the heart & mind (SE, DBT, ART, CBT, IFS, EMDR, Gottman, EFT). Ages 5-75. I also offer faith integration upon request. I offer hourly sessions & intensives.
(919) 585-1575 View (919) 585-1575
Photo of Deidre Montgomery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Greensboro, NC
Deidre Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
(336) 396-5798 View (336) 396-5798
Photo of Lauren Cardwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Greensboro, NC
Lauren Cardwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
She has a special interest in people experiencing chronic illness, grief and loss, medical professional burn out, perinatal and postpartum depression, and the special needs population.
****Not accepting new clients***Lauren Cardwell, MSW, LCSW is a clinical therapist.. She believes that being a human is hard and messy, but that people have the capability to be resilient. She is passionate about helping others make positive changes in their own timing. Her approach to therapy is strengths-based and a collaborative experience between her and her clients. Her goal of therapy is to help clients feel seen and heard in their experiences. She utilizes Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is trauma-focused. She is LBGTQ+ affirming and works with individuals, children, adults, couples, and families.
She has a special interest in people experiencing chronic illness, grief and loss, medical professional burn out, perinatal and postpartum depression, and the special needs population.
****Not accepting new clients***Lauren Cardwell, MSW, LCSW is a clinical therapist.. She believes that being a human is hard and messy, but that people have the capability to be resilient. She is passionate about helping others make positive changes in their own timing. Her approach to therapy is strengths-based and a collaborative experience between her and her clients. Her goal of therapy is to help clients feel seen and heard in their experiences. She utilizes Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is trauma-focused. She is LBGTQ+ affirming and works with individuals, children, adults, couples, and families.
(919) 679-9691 View (919) 679-9691
Photo of Anita Bhat, Counselor in Greensboro, NC
Anita Bhat
Counselor, PsyD, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
If you are in need of trauma healing from the past and present, I am the therapist for you! "Pain is inevitable but suffering is optional." Pain is a part of life but it does not have to rule your life. Suffering is not a part of life. We do it to ourselves by allowing our pain to take over our lives. You don't have to sit alone with your pain and suffer. I am a deeply empathetic and effective therapist. Trauma should not be a life sentence for anyone. I am trained in the best techniques using hypnotherapy and mind-body healing to resolve PTSD, trauma and other conditions powerfully, rapidly and effectively using the subconscious
If you are in need of trauma healing from the past and present, I am the therapist for you! "Pain is inevitable but suffering is optional." Pain is a part of life but it does not have to rule your life. Suffering is not a part of life. We do it to ourselves by allowing our pain to take over our lives. You don't have to sit alone with your pain and suffer. I am a deeply empathetic and effective therapist. Trauma should not be a life sentence for anyone. I am trained in the best techniques using hypnotherapy and mind-body healing to resolve PTSD, trauma and other conditions powerfully, rapidly and effectively using the subconscious
(984) 205-6585 View (984) 205-6585
Photo of Emily Ann Dew-Adorno, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Greensboro, NC
Emily Ann Dew-Adorno
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I am passionate about creating a supportive and empowering space for folx come and be their most authentic selves. I am skilled in conducting therapy with clients who have depression, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma relating to immigration, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and chronic illness/chronic pain. I have worked very closely with the LGBTQIA+ community, Latinx community, and the disabled community. I am knowledgeable regarding trans healthcare, including medical and social transition.
I am passionate about creating a supportive and empowering space for folx come and be their most authentic selves. I am skilled in conducting therapy with clients who have depression, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma relating to immigration, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and chronic illness/chronic pain. I have worked very closely with the LGBTQIA+ community, Latinx community, and the disabled community. I am knowledgeable regarding trans healthcare, including medical and social transition.
(919) 568-5095 View (919) 568-5095
Photo of Tamara Share, Psychologist in Greensboro, NC
Tamara Share
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
Working with adults and adolescents in individual, couples, and group counseling, Tamara considers herself a generalist in the field of psychology. Her areas of expertise include developmental concerns, anxiety and stress management, career and life planning, cultural identities, dissertation/thesis coaching, ADHD and LD coaching and testing, and health psychology (e.g. eating and weight concerns, mind-body awareness, and dealing with chronic illness). She also provides organizational consultation and is a trained facilitator in outdoor education. Recent presentations have included: 1) sexual intimacy, 2) wellness coaching, 3) exploring gender norms, and 4) the treatment of disordered eating & other psychosomatic illnesses.
Working with adults and adolescents in individual, couples, and group counseling, Tamara considers herself a generalist in the field of psychology. Her areas of expertise include developmental concerns, anxiety and stress management, career and life planning, cultural identities, dissertation/thesis coaching, ADHD and LD coaching and testing, and health psychology (e.g. eating and weight concerns, mind-body awareness, and dealing with chronic illness). She also provides organizational consultation and is a trained facilitator in outdoor education. Recent presentations have included: 1) sexual intimacy, 2) wellness coaching, 3) exploring gender norms, and 4) the treatment of disordered eating & other psychosomatic illnesses.
(919) 666-3842 x129 View (919) 666-3842 x129
Photo of Rock of Refuge Counseling Center, Counselor in Greensboro, NC
Rock of Refuge Counseling Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
As the instruments of change, it is a privilege and honor to come alongside each person we support, as they navigate the uncertainty and pain that often comes as a result of our individual lived experiences.
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
As the instruments of change, it is a privilege and honor to come alongside each person we support, as they navigate the uncertainty and pain that often comes as a result of our individual lived experiences.
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
(980) 246-4177 View (980) 246-4177
Photo of Becca Leifer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Greensboro, NC
Becca Leifer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
I support folx struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, navigating neurodiversities, unpack systemic adversities, and sense of self.
To me, therapy isn’t a workbook or a road map that’s the same for everyone. Therapy is about meeting you where you are. I want to learn about your unique strengths, values, goals, and struggles. I strive to support you in navigating your struggles, and in making choices in alignment with your values as you work toward your goals. I am curious about what brings you fulfillment and exploring avenues to infuse joy into your days, with a strength-based, benefit-enhancement approach. I view therapy as a collaborative process, know that you are the expert on your own experience, and meet each client as the individual you are.
I support folx struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, navigating neurodiversities, unpack systemic adversities, and sense of self.
To me, therapy isn’t a workbook or a road map that’s the same for everyone. Therapy is about meeting you where you are. I want to learn about your unique strengths, values, goals, and struggles. I strive to support you in navigating your struggles, and in making choices in alignment with your values as you work toward your goals. I am curious about what brings you fulfillment and exploring avenues to infuse joy into your days, with a strength-based, benefit-enhancement approach. I view therapy as a collaborative process, know that you are the expert on your own experience, and meet each client as the individual you are.
(919) 823-7599 View (919) 823-7599
Photo of Azleena Salleh Azhar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Greensboro, NC
Azleena Salleh Azhar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Waitlist for new clients
Are you trapped in a relationship with a narcissistic partner? Are you facing major life transitions, like coping with chronic illness, grief, and loss? Do you have a child or teen who is constantly struggling at home and at school? You are taking the right step by getting help! It took a lot of courage to overcome the stigma and reach this point. You don't have to walk alone. By tackling the issues together we can overcome the barriers of honor and shame.
Are you trapped in a relationship with a narcissistic partner? Are you facing major life transitions, like coping with chronic illness, grief, and loss? Do you have a child or teen who is constantly struggling at home and at school? You are taking the right step by getting help! It took a lot of courage to overcome the stigma and reach this point. You don't have to walk alone. By tackling the issues together we can overcome the barriers of honor and shame.
(919) 298-8107 View (919) 298-8107
Photo of Patricia S. Duggan, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Greensboro, NC
Patricia S. Duggan
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27608  (Online Only)
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain & society makes it hard to heal. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain & society makes it hard to heal. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
(910) 400-1524 View (910) 400-1524
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.