Photo of Margaret L Veatch, Psychologist in Guilford County, NC
Margaret L Veatch
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you need someone to listen - adults, adolescents and children are more than welcome. My background includes nursing, social work as well as clinical psychology. I have a lot of experience with clients with complex clinical issues. My professional experience enables me to work with mental illness diagnoses as well as general adjustment concerns. I enjoy meeting with families and providing intergenerational family supports.
If you need someone to listen - adults, adolescents and children are more than welcome. My background includes nursing, social work as well as clinical psychology. I have a lot of experience with clients with complex clinical issues. My professional experience enables me to work with mental illness diagnoses as well as general adjustment concerns. I enjoy meeting with families and providing intergenerational family supports.
(336) 891-3176 View (336) 891-3176
Photo of Madalina Ochenatu, Counselor in Guilford County, NC
Madalina Ochenatu
Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
It is frustrating to have tried everything, yet continue to feel in pain, sad, hopeless, stuck in the past, and worrying about the future, yourself, and your relationships. Stress, past trauma, chronic physical & mental illness can make you feel that way, affecting your quality of life (QOL). Imagine though a life where you get a boost of energy and motivation, quiet negative self-talk, cope better with stress, manage physical and emotional pain, build confidence, feel less worried, self-conscious and withdrawn, regain hope and pleasure in things you used to enjoy, live a healthier life style, and accomplish meaningful life goals.
It is frustrating to have tried everything, yet continue to feel in pain, sad, hopeless, stuck in the past, and worrying about the future, yourself, and your relationships. Stress, past trauma, chronic physical & mental illness can make you feel that way, affecting your quality of life (QOL). Imagine though a life where you get a boost of energy and motivation, quiet negative self-talk, cope better with stress, manage physical and emotional pain, build confidence, feel less worried, self-conscious and withdrawn, regain hope and pleasure in things you used to enjoy, live a healthier life style, and accomplish meaningful life goals.
(984) 205-4877 View (984) 205-4877
Photo of Greenway Counseling & Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Guilford County, NC
Greenway Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCMHC, LCMHCA, LCASA, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
[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 Austin Chandler, Psychologist in Guilford County, 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 Keisha McCleese Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor in Guilford County, NC
Keisha McCleese Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27262
Waitlist for new clients
I would like to acknowledge and congratulate you on the courage required to take the steps necessary towards achieving your desired goals. The counseling process can be intimidating as it requires you to entrust your current behaviors, thoughts, feelings and concerns to a licensed professional in the hopes of relieving problematic symptoms. My goal is to assist you in this process by providing a warm and empathetic environment in which you are able to discuss, explore, and decide the direction you would like to take. My approach serves to teach you the skills and techniques to effectively identify current problems with confidence.
I would like to acknowledge and congratulate you on the courage required to take the steps necessary towards achieving your desired goals. The counseling process can be intimidating as it requires you to entrust your current behaviors, thoughts, feelings and concerns to a licensed professional in the hopes of relieving problematic symptoms. My goal is to assist you in this process by providing a warm and empathetic environment in which you are able to discuss, explore, and decide the direction you would like to take. My approach serves to teach you the skills and techniques to effectively identify current problems with confidence.
(336) 439-1618 View (336) 439-1618
Photo of Lisa A Barella, Counselor in Guilford County, NC
Lisa A Barella
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410
I help people create insight, identify challenges, and learn about themselves so that they can feel empowered. I also help clients challenge self-defeating thoughts, so that they can rekindle a passion for life. The path toward a life filled with love and happiness starts with a single first step: self-acceptance. Sounds simple doesn't it? The right mindset can make all the difference. I believe in people's innate ability to accept and heal themselves. I'm the guide to help you discover what works for YOU.
I help people create insight, identify challenges, and learn about themselves so that they can feel empowered. I also help clients challenge self-defeating thoughts, so that they can rekindle a passion for life. The path toward a life filled with love and happiness starts with a single first step: self-acceptance. Sounds simple doesn't it? The right mindset can make all the difference. I believe in people's innate ability to accept and heal themselves. I'm the guide to help you discover what works for YOU.
(336) 203-0730 View (336) 203-0730
Photo of Cherie Powers, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Guilford County, 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 Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Guilford County, 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
Photo of Peggy Hustad, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Guilford County, NC
Peggy Hustad
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, M Ed, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401  (Online Only)
As a health coach and counselor, I focus on all areas of health, including emotional, intellectual, physical, and financial health. We can work together to add more whole food, plant-based nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and positive social connections to your life, as recommended by the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. And we can build resilience and resolve challenges with a greater sense of hope and meaning.
As a health coach and counselor, I focus on all areas of health, including emotional, intellectual, physical, and financial health. We can work together to add more whole food, plant-based nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and positive social connections to your life, as recommended by the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. And we can build resilience and resolve challenges with a greater sense of hope and meaning.
(828) 414-2538 View (828) 414-2538

Online Therapists

Photo of Anita Bhat, Counselor in Guilford County, 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 Carole F Bombardier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Guilford County, NC
Carole F Bombardier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CHT, HCHI
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I specialize in women's issues including pregnancy, infertility, prenatal and postpartum depression/anxiety, weight issues, chronic pain from Fibromyalgia, PMS, and other chronic diseases.
It is my passion to help people help themselves using a holistic approach to address the whole person. Sometimes we get so caught up in the details of life that we have difficulty seeing the big picture. Counseling can help you get more out of life, help you reach your goals and work through challenges and move forward to create and live the life you desire. Stress, anxiety, phobias, depression and life transitions are just some of the issues that I typically address within my practice.
I specialize in women's issues including pregnancy, infertility, prenatal and postpartum depression/anxiety, weight issues, chronic pain from Fibromyalgia, PMS, and other chronic diseases.
It is my passion to help people help themselves using a holistic approach to address the whole person. Sometimes we get so caught up in the details of life that we have difficulty seeing the big picture. Counseling can help you get more out of life, help you reach your goals and work through challenges and move forward to create and live the life you desire. Stress, anxiety, phobias, depression and life transitions are just some of the issues that I typically address within my practice.
(704) 266-6691 View (704) 266-6691
Photo of Seriana Gamble, Counselor in Guilford County, NC
Seriana Gamble
Counselor, Lmcha
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
As someone who had a parent with a severe autoimmune disorder as well as living with my own paired with chronic pain, I have a passion for helping kids and adults strengthen the connection between medical trauma, pain, and mental health.
Hey there! If you have found my profile and you are seeking a counselor who will help you work through your current life issues, then you have found the right place. I work with children 8 and under, teens, and adults. When working with kids, I love to focus on building the child's coping skills, providing the emotional support they need, and helping them work through their stressors while also supporting the parents in their interactions with their children. When working with adults, I like to focus on helping you bring out the best version of yourself while aiding you in working through any issues you may have.
As someone who had a parent with a severe autoimmune disorder as well as living with my own paired with chronic pain, I have a passion for helping kids and adults strengthen the connection between medical trauma, pain, and mental health.
Hey there! If you have found my profile and you are seeking a counselor who will help you work through your current life issues, then you have found the right place. I work with children 8 and under, teens, and adults. When working with kids, I love to focus on building the child's coping skills, providing the emotional support they need, and helping them work through their stressors while also supporting the parents in their interactions with their children. When working with adults, I like to focus on helping you bring out the best version of yourself while aiding you in working through any issues you may have.
(984) 867-2307 View (984) 867-2307
Photo of Tara Jubanowsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Guilford County, NC
Tara Jubanowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270  (Online Only)
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
(984) 265-8755 View (984) 265-8755
Photo of Tamara Share, Psychologist in Guilford County, 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 Lauren Cardwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Guilford County, 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 Mark Livak, Counselor in Guilford County, NC
Mark Livak
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I admire anyone who is willing to heal their from their emotional pain and improve their troubled relationships.
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
I admire anyone who is willing to heal their from their emotional pain and improve their troubled relationships.
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
(704) 268-9898 View (704) 268-9898
Photo of Jonathan Farber, Psychologist in Guilford County, NC
Jonathan Farber
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
My journey from couch potato to national triathlon champion contributes to my work: balancing effort with rest, coping with pain and injury, food issues, sustaining motivation.
I work with individuals and couples, as well as children, in both DC and Chapel Hill. I do best with adults who are educated or reflective: many are scientists, artists, health and business professionals, or psychotherapists, and some are not pursuing conventional achievement.Some see me for family or work problems, some for help dealing with a chronic health issue or a loss, some to change longstanding emotional and interpersonal patterns involving anxiety, anger, or intimacy. We may try quick and simple approaches first, because sometimes they work, but if not we can go more deeply into the individual's unique personal narrative.
My journey from couch potato to national triathlon champion contributes to my work: balancing effort with rest, coping with pain and injury, food issues, sustaining motivation.
I work with individuals and couples, as well as children, in both DC and Chapel Hill. I do best with adults who are educated or reflective: many are scientists, artists, health and business professionals, or psychotherapists, and some are not pursuing conventional achievement.Some see me for family or work problems, some for help dealing with a chronic health issue or a loss, some to change longstanding emotional and interpersonal patterns involving anxiety, anger, or intimacy. We may try quick and simple approaches first, because sometimes they work, but if not we can go more deeply into the individual's unique personal narrative.
(919) 351-1352 View (919) 351-1352
Photo of Rachel Garfield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Guilford 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 Kate Kehayes, Counselor in Guilford County, NC
Kate Kehayes
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
I am thrilled to announce that I joined Obsidian Care Collective in December, 2023 as telehealth clinical psychotherapist. My practice is informed by my lived experience as a person with neurodivergence who uses a bionic arm. I love supporting others who may inhabit differently abled bodies as we seek enjoyment and liberation through education, support, and accommodation. I maintain a passion for removing barriers and increasing access for anyone seeking self-improvement. As your therapist, I will create a healthy supportive alliance with you, utilizing transparency, humor, and radical acceptance for exploring our authentic selves.
I am thrilled to announce that I joined Obsidian Care Collective in December, 2023 as telehealth clinical psychotherapist. My practice is informed by my lived experience as a person with neurodivergence who uses a bionic arm. I love supporting others who may inhabit differently abled bodies as we seek enjoyment and liberation through education, support, and accommodation. I maintain a passion for removing barriers and increasing access for anyone seeking self-improvement. As your therapist, I will create a healthy supportive alliance with you, utilizing transparency, humor, and radical acceptance for exploring our authentic selves.
(919) 769-3715 View (919) 769-3715
Photo of Laureen Belle Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Guilford County, NC
Laureen Belle Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sanford, NC 27330
Welcome. Are you experiencing difficulties with relationships, children, spirituality, sex, or work? It often happens that many of us need a little help now and then. In my years of practice, I've seen how depression and anxiety can affect people's lives and can cause a great deal of guilt and frustration. Life is a journey, both joyous and painful. I believe that no one purposely tries to mess up their life, however, once caught up in our own situations we often cannot see the "forest for the trees", making it difficult to see things any differently during stressfull times.
Welcome. Are you experiencing difficulties with relationships, children, spirituality, sex, or work? It often happens that many of us need a little help now and then. In my years of practice, I've seen how depression and anxiety can affect people's lives and can cause a great deal of guilt and frustration. Life is a journey, both joyous and painful. I believe that no one purposely tries to mess up their life, however, once caught up in our own situations we often cannot see the "forest for the trees", making it difficult to see things any differently during stressfull times.
(919) 794-8245 View (919) 794-8245

See more therapy options for Guilford 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.