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Online Therapists

Photo of Guy Morganstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jefferson, NC
Guy Morganstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I also enjoy working with people dealing with chronic pain and illness, and those with LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
I also enjoy working with people dealing with chronic pain and illness, and those with LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
(828) 337-7549 View (828) 337-7549
Photo of Jennifer Beeghly, Psychologist in Jefferson, NC
Jennifer Beeghly
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I have specialized expertise in providing evidenced-based therapy to treat PTSD, adjustment from military service, relationship dissatisfaction, couple therapy, insomnia, pain, anxiety, somatic concerns, suicidality, and depression.
I am a licensed doctoral level clinical psychologist who provides individual and couple therapy. My approach is individualized based on the specific needs and goals of each client or couple and involves providing warmth and genuineness. My role is to assist you in gaining insight and perspective into the obstacles that are limiting you from living the life that you desire using a supportive and non-judgmental style that will facilitate personal exploration.
I have specialized expertise in providing evidenced-based therapy to treat PTSD, adjustment from military service, relationship dissatisfaction, couple therapy, insomnia, pain, anxiety, somatic concerns, suicidality, and depression.
I am a licensed doctoral level clinical psychologist who provides individual and couple therapy. My approach is individualized based on the specific needs and goals of each client or couple and involves providing warmth and genuineness. My role is to assist you in gaining insight and perspective into the obstacles that are limiting you from living the life that you desire using a supportive and non-judgmental style that will facilitate personal exploration.
(828) 528-3413 View (828) 528-3413
Photo of Jennifer Livingstone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jefferson, NC
Jennifer Livingstone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Arden, NC 28704  (Online Only)
Your life has not turned out how you had planned or hoped. You are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, substance use, or loss. You find yourself trying to solve this discomfort by repeating behaviors that provide temporary relief, but ultimately lead you further away from the kind of life you want, and the kind of person you want to be. Instead of stuck, exhausted, desperate, and dissatisfied, you'd like to move through your life with confidence, compassion, clarity, trust, creativity, curiosity, and centeredness. You'd like to finally resolve the hurt or pain you have been carrying inside you.
Your life has not turned out how you had planned or hoped. You are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, substance use, or loss. You find yourself trying to solve this discomfort by repeating behaviors that provide temporary relief, but ultimately lead you further away from the kind of life you want, and the kind of person you want to be. Instead of stuck, exhausted, desperate, and dissatisfied, you'd like to move through your life with confidence, compassion, clarity, trust, creativity, curiosity, and centeredness. You'd like to finally resolve the hurt or pain you have been carrying inside you.
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Photo of Greensboro Counseling Partners, PLLC in Jefferson, NC
Greensboro Counseling Partners, PLLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410  (Online Only)
Greensboro Counseling Partners is a private practice serving the counseling needs of adults and adolescents in the Triad area. Our therapists are masters level-trained clinicians with a combined experience spanning over 30 years in the mental health field. Our mission is to inspire hope and healing in those who struggle with depression, anxiety, and life challenges. We are here to walk with you through your pain, stress and struggles.
Greensboro Counseling Partners is a private practice serving the counseling needs of adults and adolescents in the Triad area. Our therapists are masters level-trained clinicians with a combined experience spanning over 30 years in the mental health field. Our mission is to inspire hope and healing in those who struggle with depression, anxiety, and life challenges. We are here to walk with you through your pain, stress and struggles.
(336) 739-4105 View (336) 739-4105
Photo of Nancy Waring, Psychologist in Jefferson, 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 Samii Stephens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jefferson, NC
Samii Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Hi there! Thank you for taking the initiative to seek care for yourself or a loved one. I have multiple years of experience in working with adolescents and adults in the mental health field. Primarily, my areas of focus are treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain/chronic illness and mental health in athletes. I appreciate holistic approaches to therapy but I enjoy being able to adapt treatment to the unique characteristics/needs of each client. My hope is to be a support for you as you reach your goals, face obstacles and celebrate victories!
Hi there! Thank you for taking the initiative to seek care for yourself or a loved one. I have multiple years of experience in working with adolescents and adults in the mental health field. Primarily, my areas of focus are treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain/chronic illness and mental health in athletes. I appreciate holistic approaches to therapy but I enjoy being able to adapt treatment to the unique characteristics/needs of each client. My hope is to be a support for you as you reach your goals, face obstacles and celebrate victories!
(704) 272-1379 View (704) 272-1379
Photo of Christen Mullane, Psychologist in Jefferson, NC
Christen Mullane
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805  (Online Only)
It may feel as though you are your illness, right now - as though your medical diagnosis is what defines you.
There are good days, bad days, and days that are completely overwhelming. You have never thought so much about your body in your life, and now you struggle with it every day. You remember when you trusted your body. There were times when you felt ill, but you recovered before. Now, your medical team is telling you that there is no going back to how things used to be. You are angry, you are frightened, you are hurting, and your loved ones are, too. Nobody seems to know exactly what to say, or what you need. It feels like a bomb has gone off in your life, and you are sifting through the rubble.
It may feel as though you are your illness, right now - as though your medical diagnosis is what defines you.
There are good days, bad days, and days that are completely overwhelming. You have never thought so much about your body in your life, and now you struggle with it every day. You remember when you trusted your body. There were times when you felt ill, but you recovered before. Now, your medical team is telling you that there is no going back to how things used to be. You are angry, you are frightened, you are hurting, and your loved ones are, too. Nobody seems to know exactly what to say, or what you need. It feels like a bomb has gone off in your life, and you are sifting through the rubble.
(512) 489-9803 View (512) 489-9803
Photo of Anna McDonough, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jefferson, NC
Anna McDonough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
I provide counseling to individuals and couples for a range of issues including, but not limited to: ​ Anxiety and Depression, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Grief and Loss, Pain and Health Issues, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Parent-Child Issues, Work and Career Issues, & Spiritual Issues.
Our world is full of challenges, conflicting demands, and values. At Karis Counseling, I help individuals and couples establish a sense of direction and balance. ​ I counsel clients striving to overcome troubling issues by helping them to understand the origin of the dynamics behind these matters. With this understanding, we establish a clear path and direction to make changes that will bring resolution and fulfillment. ​ This is more than a business to me. It is a commitment and passion and I am honored to walk alongside you.
I provide counseling to individuals and couples for a range of issues including, but not limited to: ​ Anxiety and Depression, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Grief and Loss, Pain and Health Issues, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Parent-Child Issues, Work and Career Issues, & Spiritual Issues.
Our world is full of challenges, conflicting demands, and values. At Karis Counseling, I help individuals and couples establish a sense of direction and balance. ​ I counsel clients striving to overcome troubling issues by helping them to understand the origin of the dynamics behind these matters. With this understanding, we establish a clear path and direction to make changes that will bring resolution and fulfillment. ​ This is more than a business to me. It is a commitment and passion and I am honored to walk alongside you.
(307) 227-3663 View (307) 227-3663
Photo of Dr. Gantz- Davidson Psychological Consulting, PC, Psychologist in Jefferson, NC
Dr. Gantz- Davidson Psychological Consulting, PC
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036  (Online Only)
ALL SERVICE PROVIDED VIA VIDEO TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Gantz is a Board Certified Clinical Psychologist, achieved by only 4% of eligible psychologists. With over 40 years of mental health experience and 33 years as a licensed psychologist, he specializes in working with people dealing with anxiety issues (including test and performance anxiety), post-traumatic stress (including combat, accidents and assaults), depression & mood disorders, chronic pain, medical disorders, conversion disorders, interpersonal problems and more. See https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-e-gantz-psyd-abpp-93a944185/ or https://davidsonpsychology.wordpress.com/
ALL SERVICE PROVIDED VIA VIDEO TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Gantz is a Board Certified Clinical Psychologist, achieved by only 4% of eligible psychologists. With over 40 years of mental health experience and 33 years as a licensed psychologist, he specializes in working with people dealing with anxiety issues (including test and performance anxiety), post-traumatic stress (including combat, accidents and assaults), depression & mood disorders, chronic pain, medical disorders, conversion disorders, interpersonal problems and more. See https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-e-gantz-psyd-abpp-93a944185/ or https://davidsonpsychology.wordpress.com/
(980) 243-0781 View (980) 243-0781
Photo of Michael James Berens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jefferson, NC
Michael James Berens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401
I specifically like to work with couples, adults, parents, every type of relationship from friendships to the more complex, those in chronic pain, and those who are departing some sort of religious group who are looking for identity and community.
Have you ever felt like your body was reacting in ways you did not want it to? Perhaps you feel uneasy around unexpected things. Maybe your gut is telling you something and you just need some confirmation. I believe we find answers and direction when we sit with someone who takes the time to listen and see. It is not easy to show up and vulnerably talk to someone. I personally know the hard work it takes to look inward, spend time wondering what is going on, and make the inner adjustments so that life does not feel like it's crashing over us.
I specifically like to work with couples, adults, parents, every type of relationship from friendships to the more complex, those in chronic pain, and those who are departing some sort of religious group who are looking for identity and community.
Have you ever felt like your body was reacting in ways you did not want it to? Perhaps you feel uneasy around unexpected things. Maybe your gut is telling you something and you just need some confirmation. I believe we find answers and direction when we sit with someone who takes the time to listen and see. It is not easy to show up and vulnerably talk to someone. I personally know the hard work it takes to look inward, spend time wondering what is going on, and make the inner adjustments so that life does not feel like it's crashing over us.
(336) 439-9341 View (336) 439-9341
Photo of Katie Fitzpatrick Camenzind, Psychologist in Jefferson, NC
Katie Fitzpatrick Camenzind
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mills River, NC 28759
Waitlist for new clients
In times like these it can feel like you’re losing a lot: losing hope, losing sleep, losing control. But pain can be productive. Struggles can be opportunities to see what we're made of. They can also be the impetus to make changes we've been putting off, maybe out of fear that they would upset the balance we work so hard to maintain. Right now during this pandemic, it's hard to find one thing in our lives that hasn't changed and there are so many unknowns. It can be very difficult to persevere when you can't see the light at the end of the tunnel and when your usual outlets for support and coping are now limited.
In times like these it can feel like you’re losing a lot: losing hope, losing sleep, losing control. But pain can be productive. Struggles can be opportunities to see what we're made of. They can also be the impetus to make changes we've been putting off, maybe out of fear that they would upset the balance we work so hard to maintain. Right now during this pandemic, it's hard to find one thing in our lives that hasn't changed and there are so many unknowns. It can be very difficult to persevere when you can't see the light at the end of the tunnel and when your usual outlets for support and coping are now limited.
(828) 383-9981 View (828) 383-9981
Photo of Patricia S. Duggan, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Jefferson, NC
Patricia S. Duggan
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain & society makes it hard to heal. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain & society makes it hard to heal. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
(910) 400-1524 View (910) 400-1524
Photo of Tara Jubanowsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jefferson, NC
Tara Jubanowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
I received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Social Psychology from Lehigh University in 2003 and graduated from Columbia University in 2007 with a Master of Science in Social Work. I specialize in the areas of health/illness, medical education, medical/social trauma, chronic pain/disability, grief/bereavement, and loss.
I received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Social Psychology from Lehigh University in 2003 and graduated from Columbia University in 2007 with a Master of Science in Social Work. I specialize in the areas of health/illness, medical education, medical/social trauma, chronic pain/disability, grief/bereavement, and loss.
(704) 486-5283 View (704) 486-5283
Photo of Cody W Chase, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Jefferson, NC
Cody W Chase
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
I can help navigate a new diagnosis, chronic illness, or caregiving.
Life is messy and sometimes we need help making sense of the chaos. I provide a safe and confidential space to be heard, be real, and be understood. I am passionate about helping people navigate the various expected and unexpected happenings in their lives. Whether it is managing the new territory of parenthood, dealing with an unexpected diagnosis, or handling the stresses of everyday life, I strive to help people remain grounded and arm them with healthy coping strategies to get on their desired path.
I can help navigate a new diagnosis, chronic illness, or caregiving.
Life is messy and sometimes we need help making sense of the chaos. I provide a safe and confidential space to be heard, be real, and be understood. I am passionate about helping people navigate the various expected and unexpected happenings in their lives. Whether it is managing the new territory of parenthood, dealing with an unexpected diagnosis, or handling the stresses of everyday life, I strive to help people remain grounded and arm them with healthy coping strategies to get on their desired path.
(704) 327-0314 View (704) 327-0314
Photo of Mary Cottam Keever, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jefferson, NC
Mary Cottam Keever
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHC
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27265
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
(336) 916-9181 View (336) 916-9181
Photo of Chronic Health Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jefferson, 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 Neuronnection Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in Jefferson, 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 Leigh Zick Dongre, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Jefferson, NC
Leigh Zick Dongre
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
(336) 791-0314 View (336) 791-0314
Photo of Karen R Liddell, Pastoral Counselor in Jefferson, NC
Karen R Liddell
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LCPC, Rev
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117  (Online Only)
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
(980) 372-8371 View (980) 372-8371
Photo of Carol Greenberger, Counselor in Jefferson, NC
Carol Greenberger
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
(828) 484-2226 View (828) 484-2226

See more therapy options for Jefferson

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.