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Online Therapists

Photo of Jeremy T. Cochran - Cochran Christian Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jefferson, NC
Jeremy T. Cochran - Cochran Christian Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Your pain is unique to you, only you can understand it.
For any relationship to work you must be able to communicate. Marriage can be tough. I help people communicate and manage their conflict. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, serving North Carolina since 2003. I provide marriage, premarital, individual counseling for adults. I see people with a variety of therapeutic concerns including, but not limited to, trauma, depression, anxiety, & non-supportive spouse.
Your pain is unique to you, only you can understand it.
For any relationship to work you must be able to communicate. Marriage can be tough. I help people communicate and manage their conflict. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, serving North Carolina since 2003. I provide marriage, premarital, individual counseling for adults. I see people with a variety of therapeutic concerns including, but not limited to, trauma, depression, anxiety, & non-supportive spouse.
(828) 479-0284 View (828) 479-0284
Photo of Rock of Refuge Counseling Center, Counselor in Jefferson, NC
Rock of Refuge Counseling Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
As the instruments of change, it is a privilege and honor to come alongside each person we support, as they navigate the uncertainty and pain that often comes as a result of our individual lived experiences.
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
As the instruments of change, it is a privilege and honor to come alongside each person we support, as they navigate the uncertainty and pain that often comes as a result of our individual lived experiences.
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
(980) 246-4177 View (980) 246-4177
Photo of John Joseph McCarthy, Pastoral Counselor in Jefferson, NC
John Joseph McCarthy
Pastoral Counselor, MSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing pain, emotional distress or challenges in your life? Do you feel lost, stuck, or hopeless with your situation? Are you willing to take the steps that are within your control to improve it? Do you want to deal with your pain and emotional distress in a healthier way? If so, I am here to assist you in reaching your goals.
Are you experiencing pain, emotional distress or challenges in your life? Do you feel lost, stuck, or hopeless with your situation? Are you willing to take the steps that are within your control to improve it? Do you want to deal with your pain and emotional distress in a healthier way? If so, I am here to assist you in reaching your goals.
(980) 655-3318 View (980) 655-3318
Photo of Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Jefferson, NC
Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCMHC-S, LCAS, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
(980) 338-4035 View (980) 338-4035
Photo of Mark Livak, Counselor in Jefferson, NC
Mark Livak
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I admire anyone who is willing to heal their from their emotional pain and improve their troubled relationships.
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
I admire anyone who is willing to heal their from their emotional pain and improve their troubled relationships.
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
(704) 268-9898 View (704) 268-9898
Photo of Dr. Andrea Dughoff, Psychologist in Jefferson, NC
Dr. Andrea Dughoff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
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 Daniel Pak, Counselor in Jefferson, NC
Daniel Pak
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
People commonly say life is a journey full of ups and downs, but sometimes we feel our journey is only going down. We are left feeling lost, trapped, and in pain. Sadly, we do not always have the help or the resources to get through these moments due to various circumstances in our life. Therapy is not a fix-all solution, but it can be the catalyst to taking steps out of what can feel like a bottomless pit and give us the strength to face our problems. I hope that I can be a steadfast presence for support through whatever you are experiencing and help you find your path through your darkest of valleys.
People commonly say life is a journey full of ups and downs, but sometimes we feel our journey is only going down. We are left feeling lost, trapped, and in pain. Sadly, we do not always have the help or the resources to get through these moments due to various circumstances in our life. Therapy is not a fix-all solution, but it can be the catalyst to taking steps out of what can feel like a bottomless pit and give us the strength to face our problems. I hope that I can be a steadfast presence for support through whatever you are experiencing and help you find your path through your darkest of valleys.
(704) 703-5458 View (704) 703-5458
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 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 Olivia Sessions, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Jefferson, 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 Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jefferson, 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 Michelle McDevitt-Askew, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jefferson, NC
Michelle McDevitt-Askew
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
There are seasons in life when the opportunity to grow can come from both joyful and challenging circumstances or complicated issues and relationships. It is my hope that in the safe,non-judgmental space of therapy we can begin to discover your core resiliency, strengths and create awareness for integrating healthy coping and communication skills for healing. I enjoy helping couples discover relational dynamics and patterns that keep them from enjoying a safe, close and vibrant relationship. I am well suited to work with families and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief and life stage transitioning.
There are seasons in life when the opportunity to grow can come from both joyful and challenging circumstances or complicated issues and relationships. It is my hope that in the safe,non-judgmental space of therapy we can begin to discover your core resiliency, strengths and create awareness for integrating healthy coping and communication skills for healing. I enjoy helping couples discover relational dynamics and patterns that keep them from enjoying a safe, close and vibrant relationship. I am well suited to work with families and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief and life stage transitioning.
(980) 263-9313 View (980) 263-9313
Photo of Clete L deller, Counselor in Jefferson, 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.
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Photo of Complement & Complete Biblical Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jefferson, NC
Complement & Complete Biblical Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28208  (Online Only)
Complement & Complete is a virtual, mental health practice designed to help individuals overcome emotional roots that cause emotional, physical and spiritual pain.
Welcome to my practice! I'm Denetra Gary, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland (LCSW-C), Indiana (LCSW), and North Carolina (LCSW). I'm a Christian-based counselor and use the Bible as my foundation. I have ten years of experience in the field of social work and mental health counseling. My therapeutic focus includes working with adults, teens, and children who struggle with anxiety, depression, and chronic disorganization. I'm confident and dedicated to helping you reach your goals.
Complement & Complete is a virtual, mental health practice designed to help individuals overcome emotional roots that cause emotional, physical and spiritual pain.
Welcome to my practice! I'm Denetra Gary, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland (LCSW-C), Indiana (LCSW), and North Carolina (LCSW). I'm a Christian-based counselor and use the Bible as my foundation. I have ten years of experience in the field of social work and mental health counseling. My therapeutic focus includes working with adults, teens, and children who struggle with anxiety, depression, and chronic disorganization. I'm confident and dedicated to helping you reach your goals.
(301) 215-2887 View (301) 215-2887
Photo of Deborah Whitley Van Wieren, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Jefferson, NC
Deborah Whitley Van Wieren
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC , LCAS
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Waitlist for new clients
Life can present challenges, some we live with every day, and others seem to come out of nowhere. Maybe life doesn't follow along a path we've spent years creating and working toward. The business of living can begin to feel like a grind, and simple tasks may create exhaustion, fear, and uncertainty. Unresolved and painful childhood memories seem to revisit out of nowhere, and even though you've worked and wished, or prayed about the pain, the pain lingers. We often resign ourselves to perceiving life as a chore instead of a joyful experience, which can lead to a lack of fulfillment and even chronic illness.
Life can present challenges, some we live with every day, and others seem to come out of nowhere. Maybe life doesn't follow along a path we've spent years creating and working toward. The business of living can begin to feel like a grind, and simple tasks may create exhaustion, fear, and uncertainty. Unresolved and painful childhood memories seem to revisit out of nowhere, and even though you've worked and wished, or prayed about the pain, the pain lingers. We often resign ourselves to perceiving life as a chore instead of a joyful experience, which can lead to a lack of fulfillment and even chronic illness.
(828) 373-1168 View (828) 373-1168
Photo of Christine Wisdom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jefferson, NC
Christine Wisdom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
I have a special interest in exploring the connection between the emotional, physical and spiritual dimensions as they relate to pain and illness.
I work with individuals and couples by listening to their stories, helping them to find meaning out of life's experiences and working together to rewrite the stories of their lives. I journey with individuals to heal past wounds and move towards wholeness. I have worked with women in life transitions to find a greater sense of self and with men with past struggles with addiction to discover a new direction for their lives. I work with men, women and teens who struggle with anxiety, depression and family conflict to work on setting boundaries with others and caring for the self.
I have a special interest in exploring the connection between the emotional, physical and spiritual dimensions as they relate to pain and illness.
I work with individuals and couples by listening to their stories, helping them to find meaning out of life's experiences and working together to rewrite the stories of their lives. I journey with individuals to heal past wounds and move towards wholeness. I have worked with women in life transitions to find a greater sense of self and with men with past struggles with addiction to discover a new direction for their lives. I work with men, women and teens who struggle with anxiety, depression and family conflict to work on setting boundaries with others and caring for the self.
(704) 276-6109 View (704) 276-6109
Photo of Pat Holsclaw, Counselor in Jefferson, NC
Pat Holsclaw
Counselor, LCMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
I am a Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts Therapist and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. For more than 20 years, I have walked alongside Clients through Grief and Trauma in both Individual and Group Settings. I have experience working with all ages, although my focus currently is with Teen Girls and Women experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma, Medical Illness, Anger/Stress Management, and Life Transitions.
I am a Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts Therapist and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. For more than 20 years, I have walked alongside Clients through Grief and Trauma in both Individual and Group Settings. I have experience working with all ages, although my focus currently is with Teen Girls and Women experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma, Medical Illness, Anger/Stress Management, and Life Transitions.
(336) 490-9054 View (336) 490-9054
Photo of Kayla Patterson, Counselor in Jefferson, NC
Kayla Patterson
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults experiencing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, chronic pain, relationship troubles, or struggling with spirituality/faith concerns (i.
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults experiencing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, chronic pain, relationship troubles, or struggling with spirituality/faith concerns (i.
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
(704) 389-5748 View (704) 389-5748
Photo of Robert Limkeman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Jefferson, NC
Robert Limkeman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Life can be incredibly painful. We can find ourselves feeling stuck, confused, lonely, anxious, despairing, or lost. We want to make sense of our past & present circumstances, map out a path forward, all in a way that feels true to our values and honors the pain we experience. My clients often struggle with issues like depression & anxiety, grief & loss, trauma & abuse, identity & meaning formation, sexuality & pornography, spiritual distress & relationship strife. Whether highly motivated or exhausted and on the verge of giving up, I am honored to meet each client where they are and walk with them step by step toward change.
Life can be incredibly painful. We can find ourselves feeling stuck, confused, lonely, anxious, despairing, or lost. We want to make sense of our past & present circumstances, map out a path forward, all in a way that feels true to our values and honors the pain we experience. My clients often struggle with issues like depression & anxiety, grief & loss, trauma & abuse, identity & meaning formation, sexuality & pornography, spiritual distress & relationship strife. Whether highly motivated or exhausted and on the verge of giving up, I am honored to meet each client where they are and walk with them step by step toward change.
(704) 769-2168 x114 View (704) 769-2168 x114
Photo of Footprints Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jefferson, NC
Footprints Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Clients come to me in trying times for help dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, grief issues, and anger issues. I don't see myself as the "expert" who is going to provide all the "answers" but I do promise to walk with my clients as they address the issues we identify together that they want to address in therapy. I am comfortable working with clients individuals, couples and families, and kids (age 9 to adults). I have been theologically trained and can explore spiritual issues and crises as a pastoral counselor, also.
Clients come to me in trying times for help dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, grief issues, and anger issues. I don't see myself as the "expert" who is going to provide all the "answers" but I do promise to walk with my clients as they address the issues we identify together that they want to address in therapy. I am comfortable working with clients individuals, couples and families, and kids (age 9 to adults). I have been theologically trained and can explore spiritual issues and crises as a pastoral counselor, also.
(336) 939-0412 View (336) 939-0412

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.