Photo of Mitchell Bloom; Medical Hypnosis in Guilford County, NC
Mitchell Bloom; Medical Hypnosis
MD, CHT, BCH
Not Verified Not Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
Dr. Bloom gave up a lucrative medical career to treat the root psychological components of physical, emotional, and spiritual conditions. In his 35 years of practicing medicine he found that the mind-body connection is very real, and is the invisible cause of many seemingly untreatable medical conditions. He found that by correcting root unconscious causes of diseases, many chronic medical conditions can improve. This can be seen in the numerous clinical studies which can be found at rootcausehypnosis.online/education/hypnosis-studies
Dr. Bloom gave up a lucrative medical career to treat the root psychological components of physical, emotional, and spiritual conditions. In his 35 years of practicing medicine he found that the mind-body connection is very real, and is the invisible cause of many seemingly untreatable medical conditions. He found that by correcting root unconscious causes of diseases, many chronic medical conditions can improve. This can be seen in the numerous clinical studies which can be found at rootcausehypnosis.online/education/hypnosis-studies
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Photo of Cynthia von der Lehr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Guilford County, NC
Cynthia von der Lehr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358  (Online Only)
Are you desperate to change how you are feeling? I want to share very useful tools in our first meeting that you can use immediately to access the change you are seeking. Is your anxiety overwhelming and you don’t know how to make it better? Are you facing one of the most painful experiences in your life? Do you feel stuck and you don’t know what to do next? I will work with you with an open heart and mind to provide support, encouragement, and most importantly, teach you skills to make profound changes to restore balance and peace in your life. Let’s work together to bring lasting change.
Are you desperate to change how you are feeling? I want to share very useful tools in our first meeting that you can use immediately to access the change you are seeking. Is your anxiety overwhelming and you don’t know how to make it better? Are you facing one of the most painful experiences in your life? Do you feel stuck and you don’t know what to do next? I will work with you with an open heart and mind to provide support, encouragement, and most importantly, teach you skills to make profound changes to restore balance and peace in your life. Let’s work together to bring lasting change.
(336) 770-2241 View (336) 770-2241
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 House Call Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Guilford County, 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 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 Kimberly Lillig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Guilford County, NC
Kimberly Lillig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612  (Online Only)
¿Tiene preocupaciones persistentes, tiene problemas con los límites, siempre se siente estancado o triste o está atormentado por traumas pasados? Estoy listo para ayudarlo en su viaje de sanación y podemos trabajar juntos para desenredar los problemas no resueltos en su vida. Sin embargo, sobre todo, la escucha compasiva es el primer sello distintivo de mi práctica. Para sentirse lo suficientemente seguro como para hacer cambios, primero debe sentir que realmente lo han escuchado sin juzgarlo al expresar sus inquietudes. Este es el ambiente que crearemos juntos.
¿Tiene preocupaciones persistentes, tiene problemas con los límites, siempre se siente estancado o triste o está atormentado por traumas pasados? Estoy listo para ayudarlo en su viaje de sanación y podemos trabajar juntos para desenredar los problemas no resueltos en su vida. Sin embargo, sobre todo, la escucha compasiva es el primer sello distintivo de mi práctica. Para sentirse lo suficientemente seguro como para hacer cambios, primero debe sentir que realmente lo han escuchado sin juzgarlo al expresar sus inquietudes. Este es el ambiente que crearemos juntos.
(919) 646-2672 View (919) 646-2672
Photo of Jessica Cuttance at Nourish Carolina Counseling, Counselor in Guilford County, NC
Jessica Cuttance at Nourish Carolina Counseling
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Hay momentos en que la vida te manda sorpresas que suceden sin ninguna advertencia. Ya sea que estos cambios o sorpresas sean positivos o negativos, la etapa cambiante siempre necesita de un estímulo positivo para ayudarte aceptar el cambio o darnos fortaleza para ser parte de el cambio. Juntos, tu y yo podemos ayudarte a sobrepasar esas sorpresas de la vida y mas bien aprovechar la oportunidad para hacer un cambio y atreverte a brillar de adentro hacia afuera mas que nunca. Tu no estas solo - yo te puedo ayudar.
Hay momentos en que la vida te manda sorpresas que suceden sin ninguna advertencia. Ya sea que estos cambios o sorpresas sean positivos o negativos, la etapa cambiante siempre necesita de un estímulo positivo para ayudarte aceptar el cambio o darnos fortaleza para ser parte de el cambio. Juntos, tu y yo podemos ayudarte a sobrepasar esas sorpresas de la vida y mas bien aprovechar la oportunidad para hacer un cambio y atreverte a brillar de adentro hacia afuera mas que nunca. Tu no estas solo - yo te puedo ayudar.
(919) 533-4552 View (919) 533-4552
Photo of Cristina Snipes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Guilford County, NC
Cristina Snipes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27613  (Online Only)
Con más de 15 años de experiencia terapéutica y una maestría en trabajo social, le proporcionaré un ambiente de apoyo, relajado y cómodo, arraigado en un enfoque colaborativo. Creo firmemente en trabajar juntos hacia su crecimiento personal dirigiéndolo a través del proceso terapéutico. Al ofrecer un cuidado amable y compasivo en cada paso del camino, aliviaré el desalentador proceso de comenzar y continuar la terapia individual, resultando en el crecimiento que usted desea.
Con más de 15 años de experiencia terapéutica y una maestría en trabajo social, le proporcionaré un ambiente de apoyo, relajado y cómodo, arraigado en un enfoque colaborativo. Creo firmemente en trabajar juntos hacia su crecimiento personal dirigiéndolo a través del proceso terapéutico. Al ofrecer un cuidado amable y compasivo en cada paso del camino, aliviaré el desalentador proceso de comenzar y continuar la terapia individual, resultando en el crecimiento que usted desea.
(919) 351-6924 View (919) 351-6924
Photo of William (Stacey) Steck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Guilford County, NC
William (Stacey) Steck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
No es algo que nos guste admitir, pero a veces simplemente necesitamos un poquito de ayuda en organizar nuestros pensamientos, emociones, relaciones, y problemas. De hecho, si ya lo hubiera resuelto por si mismo o misma, no estaria aqui buscando un terapeuta! En mis mas de viente años de experiencia como pastor, que complementan mi práctica de terapia, he visto personas de todas edades, parejas do todo tipo, y familias de varias configuraciones enfrentar sus retos, y como un poco de esfuerzo puede hacer grandes cambios. Lo mas importante es reconocer que no hay nada inherentemente malo con usted. Simplemente necesita un apoyo.
No es algo que nos guste admitir, pero a veces simplemente necesitamos un poquito de ayuda en organizar nuestros pensamientos, emociones, relaciones, y problemas. De hecho, si ya lo hubiera resuelto por si mismo o misma, no estaria aqui buscando un terapeuta! En mis mas de viente años de experiencia como pastor, que complementan mi práctica de terapia, he visto personas de todas edades, parejas do todo tipo, y familias de varias configuraciones enfrentar sus retos, y como un poco de esfuerzo puede hacer grandes cambios. Lo mas importante es reconocer que no hay nada inherentemente malo con usted. Simplemente necesita un apoyo.
(704) 327-0562 View (704) 327-0562
Photo of Marisol Pérez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Guilford County, NC
Marisol Pérez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518  (Online Only)
¿Has probado todas las cosas y sigues sin sentir alivio? ¿Está buscando algo diferente a la terapia de conversación tradicional? ¿Ha tenido dificultades para encontrar un terapeuta? La búsqueda de apoyo puede se agotadora. Encontrar el terapeuta adecuado para usted es importante. Yo ofrexco un entorno un ambiente colaborativo, cálido y sin prejuicios donde puede sentirse seguro y escuchado. Si está listo para ser observado y apoyado, durante su viaje para encontrar la paz, ha venido al lugar correcto. Ofrezco un espacio de curación inclusivo, holístico, centrado en el trauma y antiopresivo.
¿Has probado todas las cosas y sigues sin sentir alivio? ¿Está buscando algo diferente a la terapia de conversación tradicional? ¿Ha tenido dificultades para encontrar un terapeuta? La búsqueda de apoyo puede se agotadora. Encontrar el terapeuta adecuado para usted es importante. Yo ofrexco un entorno un ambiente colaborativo, cálido y sin prejuicios donde puede sentirse seguro y escuchado. Si está listo para ser observado y apoyado, durante su viaje para encontrar la paz, ha venido al lugar correcto. Ofrezco un espacio de curación inclusivo, holístico, centrado en el trauma y antiopresivo.
(919) 899-4901 View (919) 899-4901
Photo of Jairo Orellana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Guilford County, NC
Jairo Orellana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27602  (Online Only)
En Healing2Harmony, Jairo ofrece servicios terapéuticos de prestigio y alta calidad. Más de 10 años de ayudar a los clientes a sanar de traumas, depresión, ansiedad y miedos o problemas en general. ¿Estás ansioso o te sientes deprimido? ¿Necesitas ayuda para encontrar la felicidad? Jairo se especializó en ayudar a mis clientes a sanar de su vida de trauma y ciertos abusos que habían soportado en su vida. Si necesita ayuda para encontrar motivación, se siente triste, ansioso o tiene problemas para adaptarse a una nueva situación. Sanemos juntos.
En Healing2Harmony, Jairo ofrece servicios terapéuticos de prestigio y alta calidad. Más de 10 años de ayudar a los clientes a sanar de traumas, depresión, ansiedad y miedos o problemas en general. ¿Estás ansioso o te sientes deprimido? ¿Necesitas ayuda para encontrar la felicidad? Jairo se especializó en ayudar a mis clientes a sanar de su vida de trauma y ciertos abusos que habían soportado en su vida. Si necesita ayuda para encontrar motivación, se siente triste, ansioso o tiene problemas para adaptarse a una nueva situación. Sanemos juntos.
(252) 765-4146 View (252) 765-4146
Photo of La Vida Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Guilford County, NC
La Vida Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Ofrezco servicios de consejería y Evalucaiones de Inmigracion a clientes de 5 años de edad hasta adultos. Especializo en trauma, abuso de sustancia, depresión, ansiedad, adición de internet/ video juego, problemas de comportamiento, y cambios de transición de colegio/universitario. Para mis clientes menores, pienso que es importante involucrar a los padres en terapia, cuando es apropiado para poder lograr sus metas. He trabajado en hospital de salud mental, en la cárcel, y en situaciones de crisis. Esto me ayudado en ganar experiencia profesional para ayudar a los que están en necesidad critica.
Ofrezco servicios de consejería y Evalucaiones de Inmigracion a clientes de 5 años de edad hasta adultos. Especializo en trauma, abuso de sustancia, depresión, ansiedad, adición de internet/ video juego, problemas de comportamiento, y cambios de transición de colegio/universitario. Para mis clientes menores, pienso que es importante involucrar a los padres en terapia, cuando es apropiado para poder lograr sus metas. He trabajado en hospital de salud mental, en la cárcel, y en situaciones de crisis. Esto me ayudado en ganar experiencia profesional para ayudar a los que están en necesidad critica.
(704) 935-4208 View (704) 935-4208
Photo of Neli Goire, Pre-Licensed Professional in Guilford County, NC
Neli Goire
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
Mi enfoque terapéutico se centra en el poder de la transformación personal. Como terapeuta, creo en la resiliencia innata de cada individuo y en la capacidad de superar los desafíos de la vida. Mi especialización abarca una amplia gama de áreas, desde el manejo de la ansiedad y la depresión hasta el apoyo en momentos de cambio y crecimiento. Mi objetivo es proporcionarte las herramientas y el apoyo necesarios para que puedas recuperar el control de tu vida y alcanzar una mayor satisfacción y bienestar. Tu bienestar es mi prioridad, y estoy comprometida a ayudarte en cada paso del camino hacia una vida más plena y significativa.
Mi enfoque terapéutico se centra en el poder de la transformación personal. Como terapeuta, creo en la resiliencia innata de cada individuo y en la capacidad de superar los desafíos de la vida. Mi especialización abarca una amplia gama de áreas, desde el manejo de la ansiedad y la depresión hasta el apoyo en momentos de cambio y crecimiento. Mi objetivo es proporcionarte las herramientas y el apoyo necesarios para que puedas recuperar el control de tu vida y alcanzar una mayor satisfacción y bienestar. Tu bienestar es mi prioridad, y estoy comprometida a ayudarte en cada paso del camino hacia una vida más plena y significativa.
(919) 873-3494 View (919) 873-3494
Photo of Karen E Hooper, Psychologist in Guilford County, NC
Karen E Hooper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
I specialize in the health/illness spectrum.
Research has found that happiness is one of the most effective health interventions. I work with individuals, couples, and families, using a positive psychology approach that helps clients identify and build upon what they are already doing well. I can help you understand the importance of the mind/body connection, and how to utilize this to feel better. I can help you become aware of how your choices are impacting your life satisfaction and help you gain new skills and perspectives on your challenges. Feeling energetic and hopeful again is possible. I encourage you to call today.
I specialize in the health/illness spectrum.
Research has found that happiness is one of the most effective health interventions. I work with individuals, couples, and families, using a positive psychology approach that helps clients identify and build upon what they are already doing well. I can help you understand the importance of the mind/body connection, and how to utilize this to feel better. I can help you become aware of how your choices are impacting your life satisfaction and help you gain new skills and perspectives on your challenges. Feeling energetic and hopeful again is possible. I encourage you to call today.
(704) 240-5232 View (704) 240-5232
Photo of Dr. Anne Baker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Guilford County, NC
Dr. Anne Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27701  (Online Only)
I work with adults only and specialize in treatment for chronic pain, complex trauma, anxiety, and grief. I especially enjoy supporting clients who have functional pain syndromes (e.g., fibromyalgia) and painful autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, MS, RA) alongside histories of trauma. Clients most frequently come into therapy with me expressing a desire to more deeply understand themselves and their sense of suffering, and to heal the burdens they carry. My job in that process is never to fix you or tell you what to do. Rather, it is to support you in discovering your own deep knowing about who you are and what you need to heal.
I work with adults only and specialize in treatment for chronic pain, complex trauma, anxiety, and grief. I especially enjoy supporting clients who have functional pain syndromes (e.g., fibromyalgia) and painful autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, MS, RA) alongside histories of trauma. Clients most frequently come into therapy with me expressing a desire to more deeply understand themselves and their sense of suffering, and to heal the burdens they carry. My job in that process is never to fix you or tell you what to do. Rather, it is to support you in discovering your own deep knowing about who you are and what you need to heal.
(919) 759-6056 View (919) 759-6056
Photo of Carolina Counseling and Therapeutic Solutions, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Guilford County, NC
Carolina Counseling and Therapeutic Solutions
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC-A, LCAS-A, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I specialize in treating the emotional effect of physical pain, addiction, chronic health conditions and losses including divorce, infertility, job loss.
Providing safety for you to talk about what's on your mind is important to me. Whether this is the first time you've sought help or you've been in therapy before, I can help you cope with your life in meaningful ways. I work collaboratively with you toward your goals. Your courage and desire for change coupled with my compassion and experience helps you to make improvements in your life. Together we will develop goals which can become a long term plan of action. I will help you create a plan for a better future.
I specialize in treating the emotional effect of physical pain, addiction, chronic health conditions and losses including divorce, infertility, job loss.
Providing safety for you to talk about what's on your mind is important to me. Whether this is the first time you've sought help or you've been in therapy before, I can help you cope with your life in meaningful ways. I work collaboratively with you toward your goals. Your courage and desire for change coupled with my compassion and experience helps you to make improvements in your life. Together we will develop goals which can become a long term plan of action. I will help you create a plan for a better future.
(919) 888-4531 View (919) 888-4531
Photo of Sandra Painter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Guilford County, NC
Sandra Painter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27704
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, down, or struggling in relationships with family, friends or significant others? Are you experiencing loss or dealing with chronic illness in you or a family member? We all face a variety of challenging situations, emotions relationships and events. I believe there are times people may want to clarify their thinking about a problem or take their management of a life challenge up a notch. I believe my job is to support people’s efforts to do that by listening and assisting people in leveraging their strengths.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, down, or struggling in relationships with family, friends or significant others? Are you experiencing loss or dealing with chronic illness in you or a family member? We all face a variety of challenging situations, emotions relationships and events. I believe there are times people may want to clarify their thinking about a problem or take their management of a life challenge up a notch. I believe my job is to support people’s efforts to do that by listening and assisting people in leveraging their strengths.
(919) 766-2706 x24 View (919) 766-2706 x24
Photo of Laura Saune, Counselor in Guilford County, NC
Laura Saune
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
I'm a holistic, multicultural therapist helping teens and adults with trauma, eating disorders, self-worth, body image, anxiety and depression. I'm EMDR trained and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. If you've experienced a traumatic event I can help you gently work towards healing, return to your "old self" and develop resiliency. If you are struggling with negative body image or disordered eating you may be consumed by thoughts of calories or are very unhappy with your body. You are not alone. I'm here to help you uncover the roots of your eating disorder and rebuild a strong sense of fulfillment.
I'm a holistic, multicultural therapist helping teens and adults with trauma, eating disorders, self-worth, body image, anxiety and depression. I'm EMDR trained and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. If you've experienced a traumatic event I can help you gently work towards healing, return to your "old self" and develop resiliency. If you are struggling with negative body image or disordered eating you may be consumed by thoughts of calories or are very unhappy with your body. You are not alone. I'm here to help you uncover the roots of your eating disorder and rebuild a strong sense of fulfillment.
(704) 703-7269 View (704) 703-7269
Lotus Care Psychological Services PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD , HSP-P
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28305
Lotus Care Psychological Services was established in 2022 in the Fayetteville area by Dr. Alina Contino. At Lotus Care Psychological Services we support, diagnose and empower, children, individuals and families living with the challenges of mental health conditions and disabilities. Lotus Care will provide you with resources and service referrals to help you grow in wisdom, knowledge and understanding. We want to promote your self awareness in order to treat and help you manage your life challenges the best way possible.
Lotus Care Psychological Services was established in 2022 in the Fayetteville area by Dr. Alina Contino. At Lotus Care Psychological Services we support, diagnose and empower, children, individuals and families living with the challenges of mental health conditions and disabilities. Lotus Care will provide you with resources and service referrals to help you grow in wisdom, knowledge and understanding. We want to promote your self awareness in order to treat and help you manage your life challenges the best way possible.
(910) 812-9475 View (910) 812-9475
Photo of Silver Linings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Guilford County, NC
Silver Linings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
I enjoy working with dully diagnosed clients, victims of violence, adults dealing with stress, anxiety, overwhelm, various traumas, depression, anxiety and so much more. I am an enthusiastic and outcome-based leader with the ability to assess needs, communicate challenges and develop solution focused interventions. I have extensive clinical training in motivational interviewing, strengths-based practice, family centered treatment and trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
I enjoy working with dully diagnosed clients, victims of violence, adults dealing with stress, anxiety, overwhelm, various traumas, depression, anxiety and so much more. I am an enthusiastic and outcome-based leader with the ability to assess needs, communicate challenges and develop solution focused interventions. I have extensive clinical training in motivational interviewing, strengths-based practice, family centered treatment and trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
(984) 333-5591 View (984) 333-5591

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.