There are no results for therapists in Harmony

Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in North Carolina below.

Online Therapists

Photo of Erin L Joyner in Harmony, NC
Erin L Joyner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265  (Online Only)
My name is Erin Joyner, and I am a Master’s Intern Therapist at Breaking Cycles Counseling. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal relationships, life changes, and grief. I also specialize in helping clients living with chronic pain, illness, and disability. I can happily provide for a broad spectrum of needs for individual adults, seniors, teens, couples, and families, via telehealth. I always aim to help people by tailoring my approach to your individual needs. I have a nonjudgmental perspective on everyone and have yet to meet anyone from whom I can’t learn something, too!
My name is Erin Joyner, and I am a Master’s Intern Therapist at Breaking Cycles Counseling. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal relationships, life changes, and grief. I also specialize in helping clients living with chronic pain, illness, and disability. I can happily provide for a broad spectrum of needs for individual adults, seniors, teens, couples, and families, via telehealth. I always aim to help people by tailoring my approach to your individual needs. I have a nonjudgmental perspective on everyone and have yet to meet anyone from whom I can’t learn something, too!
(336) 715-0047 x102 View (336) 715-0047 x102
Photo of Chronic Health Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harmony, NC
Chronic Health Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025
Living with a chronic medical condition such as diabetes, chronic pain, cancer, or neurological disorders can take a toll on our emotional well-being making it even more difficult to live with the illness. Whether you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition, or have been living with a chronic illness for many years emotions such as sadness, hopelessness, fear, anxiety, and even anger can emerge making life difficult to face. I am here to help you find ways to express such emotions and work toward finding a sense of peace and joy.
Living with a chronic medical condition such as diabetes, chronic pain, cancer, or neurological disorders can take a toll on our emotional well-being making it even more difficult to live with the illness. Whether you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition, or have been living with a chronic illness for many years emotions such as sadness, hopelessness, fear, anxiety, and even anger can emerge making life difficult to face. I am here to help you find ways to express such emotions and work toward finding a sense of peace and joy.
(704) 842-9915 View (704) 842-9915
Photo of Jude Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Harmony, NC
Jude Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
I teach MBSR, an 8-week evidenced-based course designed to help people face stress, pain, and illness.
I help people who are stressed, anxious, depressed and traumatized find more joy and peace in life. Are you feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, frustrated, or stuck? Do you avoid stress by compulsively checking your phone, consuming hours of media, or staying in bed for extended periods of time? Do you have trouble sleeping even when you’re tired? Are you stressed over competing demands from work, home and relationships? Do you need a break from your negative thoughts? Do you need someone who will really listen and understand? I will show you how to be mindful, so you can take your life back and heal your relationships.
I teach MBSR, an 8-week evidenced-based course designed to help people face stress, pain, and illness.
I help people who are stressed, anxious, depressed and traumatized find more joy and peace in life. Are you feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, frustrated, or stuck? Do you avoid stress by compulsively checking your phone, consuming hours of media, or staying in bed for extended periods of time? Do you have trouble sleeping even when you’re tired? Are you stressed over competing demands from work, home and relationships? Do you need a break from your negative thoughts? Do you need someone who will really listen and understand? I will show you how to be mindful, so you can take your life back and heal your relationships.
(704) 230-4797 View (704) 230-4797
Photo of Olivia Sessions, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Harmony, NC
Olivia Sessions
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
At Beyond the Mask, I encourage clients to move forward, be free from toxic thought patterns, and unmask the hidden layers of pain, fear, shame, grief, despair, and hopelessness, schedule your appointment today.
Often times we approach a point in life where we just need to reset. Have you experienced difficulty moving forward, being accepted or finding your way in new spaces? Do you find yourself with racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, and consistent overthinking. Do you need to learn how to set safe boundaries and walk in a path full of promise? Are you ready to break free from toxic thought patterns and negative self-talk? Do you want to embrace and believe the statement "I am enough"? If anxiety, fear, depression, or shame have been thoughts you've had over the past month. It's time for change and change starts here.
At Beyond the Mask, I encourage clients to move forward, be free from toxic thought patterns, and unmask the hidden layers of pain, fear, shame, grief, despair, and hopelessness, schedule your appointment today.
Often times we approach a point in life where we just need to reset. Have you experienced difficulty moving forward, being accepted or finding your way in new spaces? Do you find yourself with racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, and consistent overthinking. Do you need to learn how to set safe boundaries and walk in a path full of promise? Are you ready to break free from toxic thought patterns and negative self-talk? Do you want to embrace and believe the statement "I am enough"? If anxiety, fear, depression, or shame have been thoughts you've had over the past month. It's time for change and change starts here.
(704) 610-1556 View (704) 610-1556
Photo of Valarie Anne Snell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harmony, NC
Valarie Anne Snell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
Waitlist for new clients
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
(336) 754-2119 x228 View (336) 754-2119 x228
Photo of Clete L deller, Counselor in Harmony, NC
Clete L deller
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lewisville, NC 27023  (Online Only)
We all want more Peace and less Pain in our live. The symptoms of trauma can prevent you from having the life you want, destroy your ability to have intimate and lasting relationships, and ultimately, steal your Peace. Peace or Pain Therapy will not only help you address trauma, but together we will create a concrete plan, for a Meaningful Values-Base Life.
We all want more Peace and less Pain in our live. The symptoms of trauma can prevent you from having the life you want, destroy your ability to have intimate and lasting relationships, and ultimately, steal your Peace. Peace or Pain Therapy will not only help you address trauma, but together we will create a concrete plan, for a Meaningful Values-Base Life.
View
Photo of Michelle McKinzie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harmony, NC
Michelle McKinzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairview, NC 28730  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I help clients with histories of trauma in the context of chronic illness.
Have you experienced a life-altering medical condition? Are you experiencing difficulties regulating your mood, including depression and anxiety? Let me help you find ways to manage your emotions and your health more effectively! I would love to help you on a journey to finding more peace and happiness.
I help clients with histories of trauma in the context of chronic illness.
Have you experienced a life-altering medical condition? Are you experiencing difficulties regulating your mood, including depression and anxiety? Let me help you find ways to manage your emotions and your health more effectively! I would love to help you on a journey to finding more peace and happiness.
(828) 475-5258 View (828) 475-5258
Photo of Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Harmony, NC
Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28206  (Online Only)
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
(919) 823-6654 View (919) 823-6654
Photo of Gene Haas, Psychological Associate in Harmony, NC
Gene Haas
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
Clients with chronic illness, or pain, or PTSD work well with my approach to therapy including the use of EMDR.
I work best with an individual client, couple, or the family of a child or adolescent that recognizes that what they have been trying to do to deal with their life or behavioral issues is not working well, and they are now open to finding understanding, and trying new approaches to old, or recently acute problems. My experience has been that most couples really want to save their marriage or other family relationships and will do the work necessary to build a new and loving relationship.
Clients with chronic illness, or pain, or PTSD work well with my approach to therapy including the use of EMDR.
I work best with an individual client, couple, or the family of a child or adolescent that recognizes that what they have been trying to do to deal with their life or behavioral issues is not working well, and they are now open to finding understanding, and trying new approaches to old, or recently acute problems. My experience has been that most couples really want to save their marriage or other family relationships and will do the work necessary to build a new and loving relationship.
(704) 326-1197 View (704) 326-1197
Photo of Nancy Waring, Psychologist in Harmony, NC
Nancy Waring
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
I work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, a wide range of relationship issues (including marital, pre-marital, divorce and singleness), chronic illness, grief and also offer career assessment and counseling. I combine a practical, problem solving approach with a focus on the client's emotional and family history to facilitate greater insight for the client as we collaborate to bring balance and wholeness to that client's life. In my many years of practice, I have been on staff at a university counseling center, a large private practice and currently am with a ministry-based counseling center.
I work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, a wide range of relationship issues (including marital, pre-marital, divorce and singleness), chronic illness, grief and also offer career assessment and counseling. I combine a practical, problem solving approach with a focus on the client's emotional and family history to facilitate greater insight for the client as we collaborate to bring balance and wholeness to that client's life. In my many years of practice, I have been on staff at a university counseling center, a large private practice and currently am with a ministry-based counseling center.
(704) 727-4277 x3052 View (704) 727-4277 x3052
Photo of Neuronnection Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in Harmony, NC
Neuronnection Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, EMDR II
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
At Neuroconnection Counseling, our mission is simple: help you heal from pain and trauma, grieve the losses you have experienced, develop effective skills to manage emotions, and grow into your full potential and talents. We are a trauma-informed practice, offering you an integrative approach, with an emphasis on techniques that tap into your brain's innate capacity for healing, such as EMDR and Brainspotting. We believe in creating a safe place for you to heal, that supports your dignity and uniqueness, allows you to explore and grow at your own pace.
At Neuroconnection Counseling, our mission is simple: help you heal from pain and trauma, grieve the losses you have experienced, develop effective skills to manage emotions, and grow into your full potential and talents. We are a trauma-informed practice, offering you an integrative approach, with an emphasis on techniques that tap into your brain's innate capacity for healing, such as EMDR and Brainspotting. We believe in creating a safe place for you to heal, that supports your dignity and uniqueness, allows you to explore and grow at your own pace.
(980) 291-4993 View (980) 291-4993
Photo of Myriam Rabaste, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harmony, NC
Myriam Rabaste
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, EMDR, II
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
(704) 870-2290 View (704) 870-2290
Photo of Lucyna Sonek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harmony, NC
Lucyna Sonek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPsych, MA, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
(828) 527-0143 View (828) 527-0143
Photo of Michael Gisser, Marriage & Family Therapist in Harmony, NC
Michael Gisser
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
I feel that my experience allows me to connect and empathize with individuals and couples who might be dealing with the stress of marriage, military life and chronic illness, including depression and anxiety.
I am a former US Army chaplain and ordained rabbi trained in Marriage and Family Therapy with additional training in trauma recovery, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSD). My experience embodies an experiential integrative approach and I can individualize therapy to meet client goals. I work with individuals, couples, military personnel, veterans, and their families, and the LGBTQIA community. I am knowledgeable of world religions and diverse cultural backgrounds. I am currently accepting new clients in Pittsboro. To schedule an appointment vist our website - migcounseling.com
I feel that my experience allows me to connect and empathize with individuals and couples who might be dealing with the stress of marriage, military life and chronic illness, including depression and anxiety.
I am a former US Army chaplain and ordained rabbi trained in Marriage and Family Therapy with additional training in trauma recovery, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSD). My experience embodies an experiential integrative approach and I can individualize therapy to meet client goals. I work with individuals, couples, military personnel, veterans, and their families, and the LGBTQIA community. I am knowledgeable of world religions and diverse cultural backgrounds. I am currently accepting new clients in Pittsboro. To schedule an appointment vist our website - migcounseling.com
(984) 237-3579 View (984) 237-3579
Photo of SHINE Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harmony, NC
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
We want to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to living your best life as you want it to be.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
We want to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to living your best life as you want it to be.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
(704) 327-0132 View (704) 327-0132
Photo of The International Center for Wellness PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harmony, NC
The International Center for Wellness PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
(704) 327-5647 x101 View (704) 327-5647 x101
Photo of Madalina Ochenatu, Counselor in Harmony, 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 Dr. Heather Dancy Morgan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harmony, NC
Dr. Heather Dancy Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW, CFMHE, CCCE, CCAPT
Verified Verified
Lexington, NC 27292
Do you feel on overload from anxiety or a deep sadness that won't just go away? Sometimes we reach a point where we feel we need a little extra help to get through a situation we are facing, or sometimes just life in general. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental approach to counseling and welcome those experiencing life's challenges. I have dedicated my life to behavioral health and wellness and specialize in working with those experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, mood disorders, thought disorders and PTSD, among many others. I also offer Mental Health Assessments, Parenting Capacity Assessments and Child Custody Evaluations.
Do you feel on overload from anxiety or a deep sadness that won't just go away? Sometimes we reach a point where we feel we need a little extra help to get through a situation we are facing, or sometimes just life in general. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental approach to counseling and welcome those experiencing life's challenges. I have dedicated my life to behavioral health and wellness and specialize in working with those experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, mood disorders, thought disorders and PTSD, among many others. I also offer Mental Health Assessments, Parenting Capacity Assessments and Child Custody Evaluations.
(336) 447-1661 View (336) 447-1661
Photo of Joshua Anthony Diliberto, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Harmony, NC
Joshua Anthony Diliberto
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, RYT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212
I am adept at treating much of the human condition because my training is existential-humanistic. My approach is holistic, client-centered, and tailored to the specific place you are in your world. I will help you connect with your purpose and meaning, as well as evoke the innate ability for healing. I do not believe in an ideal client, but there is an ideal relationship that we can establish together. I will ensure that you feel attended to, heard, and seen in the way you wish to be, and to become. You deserve stellar care! Visit or call for free 15 minute consultation.
I am adept at treating much of the human condition because my training is existential-humanistic. My approach is holistic, client-centered, and tailored to the specific place you are in your world. I will help you connect with your purpose and meaning, as well as evoke the innate ability for healing. I do not believe in an ideal client, but there is an ideal relationship that we can establish together. I will ensure that you feel attended to, heard, and seen in the way you wish to be, and to become. You deserve stellar care! Visit or call for free 15 minute consultation.
(704) 325-4468 View (704) 325-4468
Photo of Dr. Sarah Stuchell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Harmony, NC
Dr. Sarah Stuchell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
Although you may feel alone in your problem, I guarantee that you are not, and will help you develop individual and relationship skills to overcome your problem(s). I am an avid proponent of examining the systemic nature of problems, which includes taking inventory of the mental, physical, spiritual, societal, and relational aspects that may be effecting you. I will help you deconstruct your life and experiences, and help you reconstruct a healthy psychological paradigm that heals you and brings meaning and purpose to your life. You will ultimately feel more alive, genuine, and hopeful about yourself and your future.
Although you may feel alone in your problem, I guarantee that you are not, and will help you develop individual and relationship skills to overcome your problem(s). I am an avid proponent of examining the systemic nature of problems, which includes taking inventory of the mental, physical, spiritual, societal, and relational aspects that may be effecting you. I will help you deconstruct your life and experiences, and help you reconstruct a healthy psychological paradigm that heals you and brings meaning and purpose to your life. You will ultimately feel more alive, genuine, and hopeful about yourself and your future.
(949) 337-1360 View (949) 337-1360

See more therapy options for Harmony

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.