Photo of Lauren Fail, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Lauren Fail
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27520  (Online Only)
Is life getting to be a bit too much to handle? The balance may seem off and emotions coming up out of nowhere? You’re not alone and there can be relief! Now is the perfect time to deal with any part of life that's been suppressed because inner feelings are likely surfacing. I’m here to help you find peace in your current situation and let go of what you cannot control. You can have joy, renewal in your family, relationships with others, and relationship with yourself.
Is life getting to be a bit too much to handle? The balance may seem off and emotions coming up out of nowhere? You’re not alone and there can be relief! Now is the perfect time to deal with any part of life that's been suppressed because inner feelings are likely surfacing. I’m here to help you find peace in your current situation and let go of what you cannot control. You can have joy, renewal in your family, relationships with others, and relationship with yourself.
(984) 205-4247 View (984) 205-4247
Photo of Jennifer L Harrell, Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Jennifer L Harrell
Counselor, LCMHCA, LCASA, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithfield, NC 27577
I am a therapist at Living Beyond It in Smithfield, NC. I have spent the past two decades working in the mental health and substance use field. I am accepting new youth and adult patients. My specialties are transition age youth (ages 14-24) and at risk populations. If you or your child are having difficulty with anxiety, depression, social relationships or life in general, I would love to help!
I am a therapist at Living Beyond It in Smithfield, NC. I have spent the past two decades working in the mental health and substance use field. I am accepting new youth and adult patients. My specialties are transition age youth (ages 14-24) and at risk populations. If you or your child are having difficulty with anxiety, depression, social relationships or life in general, I would love to help!
(919) 899-2750 View (919) 899-2750
Photo of Animal Assisted Therapy of the Triangle, PC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Animal Assisted Therapy of the Triangle, PC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS-A, DCC
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27527
Animal Assisted Therapy of the Triangle is a mental health and wellness clinic with offices located in located in Clayton, Raleigh, and Powell's Point. Serving children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in Johnston, Wake, Dare and surrounding counties in NC. We have a team of therapists with the knowledge and experience to help clients with a wide range of mental health and wellness issues. We believe in the power of the human-animal bond and most of our therapists work with animals as co-therapists to accelerate the insight, healing, and growth process.
Animal Assisted Therapy of the Triangle is a mental health and wellness clinic with offices located in located in Clayton, Raleigh, and Powell's Point. Serving children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in Johnston, Wake, Dare and surrounding counties in NC. We have a team of therapists with the knowledge and experience to help clients with a wide range of mental health and wellness issues. We believe in the power of the human-animal bond and most of our therapists work with animals as co-therapists to accelerate the insight, healing, and growth process.
(919) 980-9132 View (919) 980-9132
Photo of Lora S. Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnston County, NC
Lora S. Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27520
As we partner together to find real-life solutions to real-world problems, we begin with the conviction that with God's help, we can find healing and restoration. As a Christian counselor with more than twenty years of experience, I have found that Christian counseling is not only unique, but also facilitates an excellent therapeutic outcome for the client. When applicable, we will apply Biblical principles during the process of counseling. When appropriate I will be blessed to pray for you during our session. Combined with sound therapeutic techniques, Christian counseling has proven to help people experience healing.
As we partner together to find real-life solutions to real-world problems, we begin with the conviction that with God's help, we can find healing and restoration. As a Christian counselor with more than twenty years of experience, I have found that Christian counseling is not only unique, but also facilitates an excellent therapeutic outcome for the client. When applicable, we will apply Biblical principles during the process of counseling. When appropriate I will be blessed to pray for you during our session. Combined with sound therapeutic techniques, Christian counseling has proven to help people experience healing.
(919) 343-0609 View (919) 343-0609
Photo of Vincent M Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnston County, NC
Vincent M Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, FBMHP
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27520  (Online Only)
**Accepting New Clients** Life can be overwhelming, confusing, disappointing, and painful. Life can be very fast-paced, and it can be very difficult in knowing how to keep up. If you’re feeling depressed, or having difficulty with friendships/relationships/family/job, therapy can help. Are the experiences earlier in your life (childhood and/or early adulthood) impacting you now? Is it difficult to make healthy choices? Do you have anger issues? Do you struggle to share emotions that are natural and more vulnerable? Therapy can aid a person in making healthy choices, and improve your daily decision-making.
**Accepting New Clients** Life can be overwhelming, confusing, disappointing, and painful. Life can be very fast-paced, and it can be very difficult in knowing how to keep up. If you’re feeling depressed, or having difficulty with friendships/relationships/family/job, therapy can help. Are the experiences earlier in your life (childhood and/or early adulthood) impacting you now? Is it difficult to make healthy choices? Do you have anger issues? Do you struggle to share emotions that are natural and more vulnerable? Therapy can aid a person in making healthy choices, and improve your daily decision-making.
(919) 944-8293 View (919) 944-8293

Online Therapists

Photo of Teresa Cox Mayle, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Teresa Cox Mayle
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MSRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Gaston, NC 27832
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is a child, adolescent or adult who experiences anxiety, depression or confusion finding the right path.They have experienced trauma or emotional pain from complex life situations, medical issues, career situations, relationships or are overwhelmed by life. They seek guidance from someone with lived experience and special skills to ease their distress and help them find a way out. They need to feel someone cares while they new insights and coping strategies to find peace and move on with their life. They use these new insights and life skills guide them with new confidence through the next life adventure.
My ideal client is a child, adolescent or adult who experiences anxiety, depression or confusion finding the right path.They have experienced trauma or emotional pain from complex life situations, medical issues, career situations, relationships or are overwhelmed by life. They seek guidance from someone with lived experience and special skills to ease their distress and help them find a way out. They need to feel someone cares while they new insights and coping strategies to find peace and move on with their life. They use these new insights and life skills guide them with new confidence through the next life adventure.
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Photo of Azleena Salleh Azhar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnston County, NC
Azleena Salleh Azhar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Waitlist for new clients
Are you trapped in a relationship with a narcissistic partner? Are you facing major life transitions, like coping with chronic illness, grief, and loss? Do you have a child or teen who is constantly struggling at home and at school? You are taking the right step by getting help! It took a lot of courage to overcome the stigma and reach this point. You don't have to walk alone. By tackling the issues together we can overcome the barriers of honor and shame.
Are you trapped in a relationship with a narcissistic partner? Are you facing major life transitions, like coping with chronic illness, grief, and loss? Do you have a child or teen who is constantly struggling at home and at school? You are taking the right step by getting help! It took a lot of courage to overcome the stigma and reach this point. You don't have to walk alone. By tackling the issues together we can overcome the barriers of honor and shame.
(919) 298-8107 View (919) 298-8107
Photo of Dana Cea, Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Dana Cea
Counselor, PhD, MS, CPSS, CRC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikeville, NC 27863  (Online Only)
I also identify as a person in recovery with severe and persistent mental illness.
Whether this is your first or the millionth therapist you have reached out to, you are taking the time to find the best fit. Have you diagnosed yourself with autism? Or felt an autism diagnosis is the missing part of your life? Maybe you have felt “different” your whole life, or perhaps you recently started exploring the possibility of neurodivergence. You may be struggling to connect with others or simply to survive day-to-day. Perhaps you’re feeling frustrated and want the answers you have been searching for.
I also identify as a person in recovery with severe and persistent mental illness.
Whether this is your first or the millionth therapist you have reached out to, you are taking the time to find the best fit. Have you diagnosed yourself with autism? Or felt an autism diagnosis is the missing part of your life? Maybe you have felt “different” your whole life, or perhaps you recently started exploring the possibility of neurodivergence. You may be struggling to connect with others or simply to survive day-to-day. Perhaps you’re feeling frustrated and want the answers you have been searching for.
(252) 254-2510 View (252) 254-2510
Photo of Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling in Johnston County, NC
Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling
MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, NC 27889  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be…a bit of a rollercoaster at times and can often feel unmanageable. If you find yourself becoming bogged down by life’s twists and turns, I’m here to help! My name is Courtney Howard and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. My mission is to provide a safe space for you to explore, repair, and grow. Taking the steps to begin a counseling journey isn’t easy and I’m proud of you for searching for a therapist to fit your needs. Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, suffering with illness, grieving, or struggling with mood? Then I may be the perfect fit for you!
Life can be…a bit of a rollercoaster at times and can often feel unmanageable. If you find yourself becoming bogged down by life’s twists and turns, I’m here to help! My name is Courtney Howard and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. My mission is to provide a safe space for you to explore, repair, and grow. Taking the steps to begin a counseling journey isn’t easy and I’m proud of you for searching for a therapist to fit your needs. Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, suffering with illness, grieving, or struggling with mood? Then I may be the perfect fit for you!
(252) 486-5072 View (252) 486-5072
Photo of Rob Moser, Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Rob Moser
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
(910) 812-8310 View (910) 812-8310
Photo of Anita Bhat, Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Anita Bhat
Counselor, PsyD, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
If you are in need of trauma healing from the past and present, I am the therapist for you! "Pain is inevitable but suffering is optional." Pain is a part of life but it does not have to rule your life. Suffering is not a part of life. We do it to ourselves by allowing our pain to take over our lives. You don't have to sit alone with your pain and suffer. I am a deeply empathetic and effective therapist. Trauma should not be a life sentence for anyone. I am trained in the best techniques using hypnotherapy and mind-body healing to resolve PTSD, trauma and other conditions powerfully, rapidly and effectively using the subconscious
If you are in need of trauma healing from the past and present, I am the therapist for you! "Pain is inevitable but suffering is optional." Pain is a part of life but it does not have to rule your life. Suffering is not a part of life. We do it to ourselves by allowing our pain to take over our lives. You don't have to sit alone with your pain and suffer. I am a deeply empathetic and effective therapist. Trauma should not be a life sentence for anyone. I am trained in the best techniques using hypnotherapy and mind-body healing to resolve PTSD, trauma and other conditions powerfully, rapidly and effectively using the subconscious
(984) 205-6585 View (984) 205-6585
Photo of Cindy W Hickman, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Cindy W Hickman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sanford, NC 27330
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed with life, exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event? Perhaps you struggle with a chronic illness. Maybe you struggle with a difficult child or teen. Or maybe your partner has been unfaithful. Are you tired of feeling isolated and hopeless? You want- no, you need- things to change, but you don’t where to begin. Asking for help can be one of the most difficulty things to do, but I would be honored to help you discover your inner strength and begin your journey to healing and being who you are meant to be.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed with life, exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event? Perhaps you struggle with a chronic illness. Maybe you struggle with a difficult child or teen. Or maybe your partner has been unfaithful. Are you tired of feeling isolated and hopeless? You want- no, you need- things to change, but you don’t where to begin. Asking for help can be one of the most difficulty things to do, but I would be honored to help you discover your inner strength and begin your journey to healing and being who you are meant to be.
(984) 234-5683 View (984) 234-5683
Photo of Gilded Peace Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Gilded Peace Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408  (Online Only)
Brainspotting and restorative yoga are also offered as additional therapeutic outlets for those living with trauma, dissociation, compulsive behaviors, anxiety, and chronic pain.
Gilded Peace Counseling is BIPOC owned/operated, LGBTQIA+ affirming, a supporter of the healthy at any size community, poly & ethical non-monogamy friendly, sex-positive, and kink-competent. GPC offers counseling for all walks of life and has specialized experience counseling clients with intergenerational trauma, sexual and/or religious trauma, chronic illnesses, and hidden disabilities. We are passionate about members of minority, marginalized, and divergent communities being heard and seen, as intersectionality should only make voices louder.
Brainspotting and restorative yoga are also offered as additional therapeutic outlets for those living with trauma, dissociation, compulsive behaviors, anxiety, and chronic pain.
Gilded Peace Counseling is BIPOC owned/operated, LGBTQIA+ affirming, a supporter of the healthy at any size community, poly & ethical non-monogamy friendly, sex-positive, and kink-competent. GPC offers counseling for all walks of life and has specialized experience counseling clients with intergenerational trauma, sexual and/or religious trauma, chronic illnesses, and hidden disabilities. We are passionate about members of minority, marginalized, and divergent communities being heard and seen, as intersectionality should only make voices louder.
(336) 276-0138 View (336) 276-0138
Photo of Dr. Ralph Fox II, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Dr. Ralph Fox II
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
(910) 216-4872 View (910) 216-4872
Photo of Tamara Share, Psychologist in Johnston County, NC
Tamara Share
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
Working with adults and adolescents in individual, couples, and group counseling, Tamara considers herself a generalist in the field of psychology. Her areas of expertise include developmental concerns, anxiety and stress management, career and life planning, cultural identities, dissertation/thesis coaching, ADHD and LD coaching and testing, and health psychology (e.g. eating and weight concerns, mind-body awareness, and dealing with chronic illness). She also provides organizational consultation and is a trained facilitator in outdoor education. Recent presentations have included: 1) sexual intimacy, 2) wellness coaching, 3) exploring gender norms, and 4) the treatment of disordered eating & other psychosomatic illnesses.
Working with adults and adolescents in individual, couples, and group counseling, Tamara considers herself a generalist in the field of psychology. Her areas of expertise include developmental concerns, anxiety and stress management, career and life planning, cultural identities, dissertation/thesis coaching, ADHD and LD coaching and testing, and health psychology (e.g. eating and weight concerns, mind-body awareness, and dealing with chronic illness). She also provides organizational consultation and is a trained facilitator in outdoor education. Recent presentations have included: 1) sexual intimacy, 2) wellness coaching, 3) exploring gender norms, and 4) the treatment of disordered eating & other psychosomatic illnesses.
(919) 666-3842 x129 View (919) 666-3842 x129
Photo of Robyn Greenwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnston County, NC
Robyn Greenwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, chronic pain, illness, grief & loss, values work, life transitions, body image concerns and perfectionism, and neurodivergence.
My name is Robyn (she/her). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Outpatient Psychotherapist at Three Oaks Behavioral Health & Wellness in South Durham. I have diverse clinical experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, community mental health, with intimate partner violence, eating and substance use disorders, and adult & juvenile justice systems. I have a unique perspective on ways that our emotions, experiences, and the ways our own and others’ stories about us accumulate in our minds and bodies and can become stuck in our tissues causing us physical and emotional pain.
I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, chronic pain, illness, grief & loss, values work, life transitions, body image concerns and perfectionism, and neurodivergence.
My name is Robyn (she/her). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Outpatient Psychotherapist at Three Oaks Behavioral Health & Wellness in South Durham. I have diverse clinical experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, community mental health, with intimate partner violence, eating and substance use disorders, and adult & juvenile justice systems. I have a unique perspective on ways that our emotions, experiences, and the ways our own and others’ stories about us accumulate in our minds and bodies and can become stuck in our tissues causing us physical and emotional pain.
(919) 583-6517 View (919) 583-6517
Photo of Barbara Jean Lowe, Psychologist in Johnston County, NC
Barbara Jean Lowe
Psychologist, PhD, LP, BCC, SEP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Are you hurting, frustrated, or feel stuck? I honor your courage to seek wholeness & growth. I know you want relief. Enduring change through therapy can happen for you. Trauma, relationship challenges, family struggles & internal pain can be shifted! I welcome you into a space of honor, hope, safety, & power to change. I partner w/ you to achieve your goals for skillful living, belonging, & wholeness. I artfully employ therapeutic & scientific techniques that bring wellness to the heart & mind (SE, DBT, ART, CBT, IFS, EMDR, Gottman, EFT). Ages 5-75. I also offer faith integration upon request. I offer hourly sessions & intensives.
Are you hurting, frustrated, or feel stuck? I honor your courage to seek wholeness & growth. I know you want relief. Enduring change through therapy can happen for you. Trauma, relationship challenges, family struggles & internal pain can be shifted! I welcome you into a space of honor, hope, safety, & power to change. I partner w/ you to achieve your goals for skillful living, belonging, & wholeness. I artfully employ therapeutic & scientific techniques that bring wellness to the heart & mind (SE, DBT, ART, CBT, IFS, EMDR, Gottman, EFT). Ages 5-75. I also offer faith integration upon request. I offer hourly sessions & intensives.
(919) 585-1575 View (919) 585-1575
Photo of Patricia S. Duggan, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Johnston County, NC
Patricia S. Duggan
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27608  (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 Felix Pittman-Storey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnston County, NC
Felix Pittman-Storey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
We all deserve to build lives worth living. And while our lives are inherently worth living, mental health struggles may cause that vision to blur in and out of focus depending on what’s going on in our lives. I believe that all the wisdom we need is within us already. To me, it’s about recognizing, becoming attuned to, and building confidence in that wisdom, as well as confidence in ourselves. I am skilled in conducting therapy with LGBTQIA+ clients, individuals with personality disorders (and their loved ones), neurodivergent clients, folks with chronic pain/illness, mood disorders, and people who have experienced trauma.
We all deserve to build lives worth living. And while our lives are inherently worth living, mental health struggles may cause that vision to blur in and out of focus depending on what’s going on in our lives. I believe that all the wisdom we need is within us already. To me, it’s about recognizing, becoming attuned to, and building confidence in that wisdom, as well as confidence in ourselves. I am skilled in conducting therapy with LGBTQIA+ clients, individuals with personality disorders (and their loved ones), neurodivergent clients, folks with chronic pain/illness, mood disorders, and people who have experienced trauma.
(919) 897-7278 View (919) 897-7278
Photo of Emily Ann Dew-Adorno, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Johnston County, NC
Emily Ann Dew-Adorno
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I am passionate about creating a supportive and empowering space for folx come and be their most authentic selves. I am skilled in conducting therapy with clients who have depression, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma relating to immigration, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and chronic illness/chronic pain. I have worked very closely with the LGBTQIA+ community, Latinx community, and the disabled community. I am knowledgeable regarding trans healthcare, including medical and social transition.
I am passionate about creating a supportive and empowering space for folx come and be their most authentic selves. I am skilled in conducting therapy with clients who have depression, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma relating to immigration, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and chronic illness/chronic pain. I have worked very closely with the LGBTQIA+ community, Latinx community, and the disabled community. I am knowledgeable regarding trans healthcare, including medical and social transition.
(919) 568-5095 View (919) 568-5095

See more therapy options for Johnston 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.