Photo of Katie Dewhurst, Counselor in Jackson County, NC
Katie Dewhurst
Counselor, LPCA
Verified Verified
Sylva, NC 28779
Not accepting new clients
I currently am not taking new clients. We all, at times, can benefit from walking with a special companion on this journey; someone who is not part of our everyday life, who has skills and experience to bring us insight and comfort. Sometimes our families, friends, or coworkers don't feel like a safe place to turn. My desire is to provide a space for understanding, healing, and hope so that you can begin to experience more fully, who you are and the beauty of your story. I see adults that struggle with anxiety, depression and life transitions challenges.
I currently am not taking new clients. We all, at times, can benefit from walking with a special companion on this journey; someone who is not part of our everyday life, who has skills and experience to bring us insight and comfort. Sometimes our families, friends, or coworkers don't feel like a safe place to turn. My desire is to provide a space for understanding, healing, and hope so that you can begin to experience more fully, who you are and the beauty of your story. I see adults that struggle with anxiety, depression and life transitions challenges.
(828) 586-5555 View (828) 586-5555

Online Therapists

Photo of Savana Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Jackson County, NC
Savana Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Candler, NC 28715  (Online Only)
I have worked with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and have experience in chronic pain/health psychology.
Accepting NEW clients! I know that finding a therapist can be an overwhelming process. I honor your courage and hope that I can provide a soft place for you to land. I aim to foster a safe, empowering, and collaborative space for my clients. Sometimes we find ourselves losing focus of our life's purpose. Together, we can help identify your values and incorporate them in your life. Through mindfulness practices and acceptance-based strategies, I can help you let go of what is no longer serving you. The ultimate goal for my clients is to decrease any areas of distress while pursuing your values and finding more meaning in your life.
I have worked with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and have experience in chronic pain/health psychology.
Accepting NEW clients! I know that finding a therapist can be an overwhelming process. I honor your courage and hope that I can provide a soft place for you to land. I aim to foster a safe, empowering, and collaborative space for my clients. Sometimes we find ourselves losing focus of our life's purpose. Together, we can help identify your values and incorporate them in your life. Through mindfulness practices and acceptance-based strategies, I can help you let go of what is no longer serving you. The ultimate goal for my clients is to decrease any areas of distress while pursuing your values and finding more meaning in your life.
(828) 539-4408 View (828) 539-4408
Photo of Ashley Merchant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, NC
Ashley Merchant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brevard, NC 28712  (Online Only)
We live in a world quickly changing with many demands and stressors. Therapy is like working out at a gym. Instead, it is building inner strength and emotional fitness. Traumas or events can happen in life leading to a dysregulated nervous system. We can experience the loss of a job, partner, or identity; the loss of a loved one or pet; disease, illness, financial instability; relationship or family issues, or housing crisis that spin our worlds upside down. Maybe it is low self-worth, stress, or feeling stuck in life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to be a supportive ally for your growth.
We live in a world quickly changing with many demands and stressors. Therapy is like working out at a gym. Instead, it is building inner strength and emotional fitness. Traumas or events can happen in life leading to a dysregulated nervous system. We can experience the loss of a job, partner, or identity; the loss of a loved one or pet; disease, illness, financial instability; relationship or family issues, or housing crisis that spin our worlds upside down. Maybe it is low self-worth, stress, or feeling stuck in life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to be a supportive ally for your growth.
(828) 622-4095 View (828) 622-4095
Photo of Shannon South, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, NC
Shannon South
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, ThD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
These heal depression and anxiety, pain and grief, increase immunity, empower you and build confidence, increase a feeling of wholeness and connection to others and set you free from the past.
I am an integrative therapist focused on healing the split associated with trauma. Trauma can disconnect you from your authenticity and power, creating a misalignment in your mind-body and spirit. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the Inner Counselor are two highly effective approaches used for healing. I see clients with panic disorder and depression, sexual abuse, abusive relationships, codependency and self-esteem issues and more. Bringing health and balance back around areas that have become compulsions (eating, sex, alcohol, relationships, etc.) is another important part of this personal healing journey.
These heal depression and anxiety, pain and grief, increase immunity, empower you and build confidence, increase a feeling of wholeness and connection to others and set you free from the past.
I am an integrative therapist focused on healing the split associated with trauma. Trauma can disconnect you from your authenticity and power, creating a misalignment in your mind-body and spirit. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the Inner Counselor are two highly effective approaches used for healing. I see clients with panic disorder and depression, sexual abuse, abusive relationships, codependency and self-esteem issues and more. Bringing health and balance back around areas that have become compulsions (eating, sex, alcohol, relationships, etc.) is another important part of this personal healing journey.
(828) 351-9963 View (828) 351-9963
Photo of Online Teletherapy For Asheville North Carolina Martha Watson in Jackson County, NC
Online Teletherapy For Asheville North Carolina Martha Watson
PhD, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Navigate life challenges, battling stress, cancer, grief or loss, chronic conditions (migraines, pain), illness, healing anxiety, trauma, IBS or childs anger/stress.
Feeling overwhelmed by trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's anger? The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably increased stress and anxiety, impacting both adults and children's mental and physical well-being. A holistic approach that combines CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine offers evidence-based methods for lasting results. This comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of stress challenges, helping you cope, restore your health & handle life transitions. It tackles stress triggers like fear, negative emotions & feeling overwhelmed. Book your complimentary online consultation today for a drug free positive coping strategy.
Navigate life challenges, battling stress, cancer, grief or loss, chronic conditions (migraines, pain), illness, healing anxiety, trauma, IBS or childs anger/stress.
Feeling overwhelmed by trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's anger? The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably increased stress and anxiety, impacting both adults and children's mental and physical well-being. A holistic approach that combines CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine offers evidence-based methods for lasting results. This comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of stress challenges, helping you cope, restore your health & handle life transitions. It tackles stress triggers like fear, negative emotions & feeling overwhelmed. Book your complimentary online consultation today for a drug free positive coping strategy.
(828) 888-0944 View (828) 888-0944
Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, NC
Lisa Lavelle Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
(828) 360-8820 View (828) 360-8820
Photo of Lottie Cooper, LPC Intern in Jackson County, NC
Lottie Cooper
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
Are you feeling stuck and want a breakthrough? I can facilitate releasing your physical, emotional, spiritual pain that is stored in the body. Are you ready to commit to yourself ? I am committed to supporting you in creating a joyful & fulfilling life. I use many modalities to individualize sessions to meet your needs to heal your pain mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Learn sensitive ways of thinking and communicating to support your relationships, create new perspectives, inner wisdom, and self-love, for a more fulfilling life. Learn skills to easily release stress, and explorations to track your progress.
Are you feeling stuck and want a breakthrough? I can facilitate releasing your physical, emotional, spiritual pain that is stored in the body. Are you ready to commit to yourself ? I am committed to supporting you in creating a joyful & fulfilling life. I use many modalities to individualize sessions to meet your needs to heal your pain mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Learn sensitive ways of thinking and communicating to support your relationships, create new perspectives, inner wisdom, and self-love, for a more fulfilling life. Learn skills to easily release stress, and explorations to track your progress.
(828) 944-4105 View (828) 944-4105
Photo of Madison Brightwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jackson County, NC
Madison Brightwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger.
I am licensed in four states and can offer Telehealth sessions to clients in CA, NC, WA and OR. Let's face it - life can be difficult. If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or you're struggling to just to feel "normal" again, you've made the right choice by seeking therapy. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to face and overcome life's challenges. You don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I know no two individuals are the same, and I'll tailor our sessions to address the challenges unique to you.
I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger.
I am licensed in four states and can offer Telehealth sessions to clients in CA, NC, WA and OR. Let's face it - life can be difficult. If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or you're struggling to just to feel "normal" again, you've made the right choice by seeking therapy. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to face and overcome life's challenges. You don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I know no two individuals are the same, and I'll tailor our sessions to address the challenges unique to you.
(828) 575-5097 View (828) 575-5097
Photo of Sarah Philbeck, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, NC
Sarah Philbeck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shelby, NC 28150
Waitlist for new clients
Many of us desire a sense of calm, connection, and well-being. Yet life circumstances and even parts of ourselves can prevent us from having these experiences in our day to day lives. Providing a safe and non-judgmental place to explore your struggles and emotional pain is essential to my practice. I feel honored to support those who desire to grow and heal.
Many of us desire a sense of calm, connection, and well-being. Yet life circumstances and even parts of ourselves can prevent us from having these experiences in our day to day lives. Providing a safe and non-judgmental place to explore your struggles and emotional pain is essential to my practice. I feel honored to support those who desire to grow and heal.
(704) 802-9945 View (704) 802-9945
Photo of Kevin J Ryan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, NC
Kevin J Ryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairview, NC 28730  (Online Only)
The clients I see most often present issues of depression, anxiety, chronic pain, grief or loss and marital or relationship conflicts.
My approach Integrative Psychotherapy draws primarily from Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Insight Meditation. It is my experience that people make changes in their lives in therapy when they feel appropriately supported and understood. This combined with awareness developed through mindfulness practices enables people to take the insights cultivated in therapy sessions and implement them in their lives. I see therapy as an opportunity to explore how our thoughts and perceptions about our life situations, determine the quality of how we experience our lives. Our self-perceptions developed throughout our lives, are often our greatest impediment to changing our lives.
The clients I see most often present issues of depression, anxiety, chronic pain, grief or loss and marital or relationship conflicts.
My approach Integrative Psychotherapy draws primarily from Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Insight Meditation. It is my experience that people make changes in their lives in therapy when they feel appropriately supported and understood. This combined with awareness developed through mindfulness practices enables people to take the insights cultivated in therapy sessions and implement them in their lives. I see therapy as an opportunity to explore how our thoughts and perceptions about our life situations, determine the quality of how we experience our lives. Our self-perceptions developed throughout our lives, are often our greatest impediment to changing our lives.
(828) 547-3620 View (828) 547-3620
Photo of Dr. Andrea Dughoff, Psychologist in Jackson County, NC
Dr. Andrea Dughoff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
My calling and expertise is to help women better manage anxiety, worry, and stress in order to cultivate and connect with their inner peace and joy. The pace of life seems to quicken with time, along with the multiple demands to be a good mom, wife, woman, and professional. It can seem impossible to find moments of rest and happiness while balancing “all of the things”. I have found that when women try to "do it all" it can lead to burnout, resentment, depression, and chronic illness. Are your nerves shot? Are you tired but wired? Are you struggling to reign-in unhealthy habits? You've come to the right place!
My calling and expertise is to help women better manage anxiety, worry, and stress in order to cultivate and connect with their inner peace and joy. The pace of life seems to quicken with time, along with the multiple demands to be a good mom, wife, woman, and professional. It can seem impossible to find moments of rest and happiness while balancing “all of the things”. I have found that when women try to "do it all" it can lead to burnout, resentment, depression, and chronic illness. Are your nerves shot? Are you tired but wired? Are you struggling to reign-in unhealthy habits? You've come to the right place!
(828) 415-5304 View (828) 415-5304
Photo of Corey Costanzo, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Jackson County, NC
Corey Costanzo
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCAS, LMBT, SEP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Lets explore your life experience in a new and exciting way. I see suffering as an opportunity to break free from old patterns, habits, and ways of thinking that are not working for you anymore. It's a call from deep inside saying, "something needs to shift". This shift can come from exploring a relationship to a substance that you are using, and the pain, anxiety, depression, or a general sense of not loving your life that may come with it. Your unique journey is here right now, and experiencing it from a nonjudgmental perspective can be a vital ingredient to moving past whatever is holding you back from living your best life.
Lets explore your life experience in a new and exciting way. I see suffering as an opportunity to break free from old patterns, habits, and ways of thinking that are not working for you anymore. It's a call from deep inside saying, "something needs to shift". This shift can come from exploring a relationship to a substance that you are using, and the pain, anxiety, depression, or a general sense of not loving your life that may come with it. Your unique journey is here right now, and experiencing it from a nonjudgmental perspective can be a vital ingredient to moving past whatever is holding you back from living your best life.
(828) 970-1704 View (828) 970-1704
Photo of Tim Bandell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, NC
Tim Bandell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTTS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with hopelessness, ongoing despair, lack of motivation, worrying, panic? Can't relax? Is your past wreaking havoc on your present? Chronic pain consuming your life? Does it feel like life is just too much? Is your baggage damaging your relationship? In a safe space, I provide therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship stress, trauma, chronic pain or life transitions.
Are you struggling with hopelessness, ongoing despair, lack of motivation, worrying, panic? Can't relax? Is your past wreaking havoc on your present? Chronic pain consuming your life? Does it feel like life is just too much? Is your baggage damaging your relationship? In a safe space, I provide therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship stress, trauma, chronic pain or life transitions.
(828) 383-8385 View (828) 383-8385
Photo of James A Barbour, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, NC
James A Barbour
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27833  (Online Only)
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
(252) 585-5186 View (252) 585-5186
Photo of Michelle McKinzie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, 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 John Taylor Houchens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, NC
John Taylor Houchens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28804
My website - www.taylorhouchens.com - I specialize in working with boys, teenagers, men, women, and families. If this is you, it is my goal to help you overcome the barriers and problems in your life that are keeping you from experiencing the freedom you are desiring. Often times, these problems are the result of trauma from childhood that is still unresolved. Perhaps you're experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, sexual abuse, PTSD, addiction (sexual, drug/alcohol, work), lack of self confidence, family issues, relationship difficulties, negative coping habits, physical or auto-immune disorders, or more. If so, I can help.
My website - www.taylorhouchens.com - I specialize in working with boys, teenagers, men, women, and families. If this is you, it is my goal to help you overcome the barriers and problems in your life that are keeping you from experiencing the freedom you are desiring. Often times, these problems are the result of trauma from childhood that is still unresolved. Perhaps you're experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, sexual abuse, PTSD, addiction (sexual, drug/alcohol, work), lack of self confidence, family issues, relationship difficulties, negative coping habits, physical or auto-immune disorders, or more. If so, I can help.
(828) 622-4184 View (828) 622-4184
Photo of Ashley Hosey, Psychological Associate in Jackson County, NC
Ashley Hosey
Psychological Associate, LPA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805  (Online Only)
Out of network provider for all insurances You're tired. You have to carry BIG emotions all the damn time with no outlet to let them out. You cry when you’re alone, but put on a smile so the world can’t see you're hurting on the inside. There is no time to slow down because slowing down makes the inner critic grow louder about how awful you are. Perhaps you get some release through disordered eating, but ultimately, that voice comes right back again. The inner critic makes it hard for you to accept yourself and love your flaws. It makes it hard for you to live your life intentionally, with confidence in yourself to use your voice.
Out of network provider for all insurances You're tired. You have to carry BIG emotions all the damn time with no outlet to let them out. You cry when you’re alone, but put on a smile so the world can’t see you're hurting on the inside. There is no time to slow down because slowing down makes the inner critic grow louder about how awful you are. Perhaps you get some release through disordered eating, but ultimately, that voice comes right back again. The inner critic makes it hard for you to accept yourself and love your flaws. It makes it hard for you to live your life intentionally, with confidence in yourself to use your voice.
(828) 622-4367 View (828) 622-4367
Photo of Pripo Teplitsky, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Jackson County, NC
Pripo Teplitsky
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Are you overwhelmed or unsatisfied with your life? Do you want change but are having difficulties taking the necessary steps for making it happen? Are you longing for connection and love, and less conflict with those you love? I specialize in working with individuals and couples dealing with relationship issues. I also help adults who are feeling unhappy in other parts of their lives. As your therapist I am here to take your thoughts and feelings seriously and help you make sense of your life in order to begin the process of change.
Are you overwhelmed or unsatisfied with your life? Do you want change but are having difficulties taking the necessary steps for making it happen? Are you longing for connection and love, and less conflict with those you love? I specialize in working with individuals and couples dealing with relationship issues. I also help adults who are feeling unhappy in other parts of their lives. As your therapist I am here to take your thoughts and feelings seriously and help you make sense of your life in order to begin the process of change.
(828) 712-8398 View (828) 712-8398
Photo of Celeste McKeever, Counselor in Jackson County, NC
Celeste McKeever
Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, RRT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28792  (Online Only)
Licensed in FL and NC. Do you want to feel more connected? In therapy we’ll get to the root of what holds you back, heal, and integrate new ways of being. I specialize in deepening relationships, healing attachment wounds, attachment styles, LGBTQIA+, and conscious living. This work is very personal to me. That’s why I’ve dedicated my life to healing generational trauma, and supporting others on their journey. Deep understanding is the most powerful healer. If you want to embrace all of your emotions and all parts of yourself and others; call me. I’d love to hear from you!
Licensed in FL and NC. Do you want to feel more connected? In therapy we’ll get to the root of what holds you back, heal, and integrate new ways of being. I specialize in deepening relationships, healing attachment wounds, attachment styles, LGBTQIA+, and conscious living. This work is very personal to me. That’s why I’ve dedicated my life to healing generational trauma, and supporting others on their journey. Deep understanding is the most powerful healer. If you want to embrace all of your emotions and all parts of yourself and others; call me. I’d love to hear from you!
(828) 360-8517 View (828) 360-8517
Photo of Forsyth Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, NC
Forsyth Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
(828) 367-1010 View (828) 367-1010

See more therapy options for Jackson 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.