Photo of Linda Sue Fuller, Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Linda Sue Fuller
Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577  (Online Only)
My clients can expect an environment free of judgment, full of understanding and empathy, where they can face the challenges that they have in a supportive environment. My personal background allows me to look at client issues from a different view and offer real world healing that meets the client where they are. My client’s come from various backgrounds, but all seeking to better understand themselves and a better way of coping. Because I’m seeing clients virtually, they feel freer to share more intimate and personal concerns that might be harder to talk about in person.
My clients can expect an environment free of judgment, full of understanding and empathy, where they can face the challenges that they have in a supportive environment. My personal background allows me to look at client issues from a different view and offer real world healing that meets the client where they are. My client’s come from various backgrounds, but all seeking to better understand themselves and a better way of coping. Because I’m seeing clients virtually, they feel freer to share more intimate and personal concerns that might be harder to talk about in person.
(984) 538-9332 View (984) 538-9332
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
Tara Escalante
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27527
Now accepting Medicare. Stressed-out? Feeling lost? Struggling to get through your day? Imagine a life without overwhelming anxiety, depression or self doubt, but instead you can feel empowered, self assured and even just relaxed despite all of life's stressors. Therapy can help you to achieve that self assurance, sense of peace and increased coping ability. I believe that everyone is unique and has their own unique journey; therefore, therapy should be person-centered and non-judgmental.
Now accepting Medicare. Stressed-out? Feeling lost? Struggling to get through your day? Imagine a life without overwhelming anxiety, depression or self doubt, but instead you can feel empowered, self assured and even just relaxed despite all of life's stressors. Therapy can help you to achieve that self assurance, sense of peace and increased coping ability. I believe that everyone is unique and has their own unique journey; therefore, therapy should be person-centered and non-judgmental.
(984) 229-8231 View (984) 229-8231
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 Mandy Tewell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Mandy Tewell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705
Waitlist for new clients
Things are hard right now. You're here because you want things to be different and don't quite know how to make that happen. I want to help you feel hopeful, powerful, and in control of your life. I want to help you heal. Whether you're feeling pain from trauma/abuse, engaging in behaviors that are no longer working for your life (self-harming, risky behaviors, disordered eating), or struggling with relationships, I can help. I have a person-centered approach so I can meet you at your current point in life and support you in reaching your goals.
Things are hard right now. You're here because you want things to be different and don't quite know how to make that happen. I want to help you feel hopeful, powerful, and in control of your life. I want to help you heal. Whether you're feeling pain from trauma/abuse, engaging in behaviors that are no longer working for your life (self-harming, risky behaviors, disordered eating), or struggling with relationships, I can help. I have a person-centered approach so I can meet you at your current point in life and support you in reaching your goals.
(919) 237-9699 View (919) 237-9699
Photo of Rachel Garfield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Rachel Garfield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
All pain creates stress which intensifies the pain, becoming a vicious cycle that can lead to anxiety and depression, disruptive relations with others, and despair.
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addiction and relationships with adults with the goal of healing the client's relationship within themselves and with others. We will work through your past to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
All pain creates stress which intensifies the pain, becoming a vicious cycle that can lead to anxiety and depression, disruptive relations with others, and despair.
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addiction and relationships with adults with the goal of healing the client's relationship within themselves and with others. We will work through your past to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
(919) 535-4925 View (919) 535-4925
Photo of New Direction Wellness, PLLC, Counselor in Johnston County, NC
New Direction Wellness, PLLC
Counselor, DC, MAEd, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Rose Hill, NC 28458  (Online Only)
After a decade of helping individuals with back & joint pain as a chiropractor, I noticed that my patients who’s pain kept returning had one thing in common.
Accepting Clients...Is stress, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, phobias and past trauma stopping you from enjoying life? Don't know how to take your power back? Well, let me let you in on a little secret. All problems come from within and I help you not only go within and find the answer, but also make peace with the answer so you can finally live the life you are meant to live.....a life full of happiness, joy, tranquility, success, and prosperity instead of living with feelings of defeat, desperation, disappointment, and hopelessness.
After a decade of helping individuals with back & joint pain as a chiropractor, I noticed that my patients who’s pain kept returning had one thing in common.
Accepting Clients...Is stress, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, phobias and past trauma stopping you from enjoying life? Don't know how to take your power back? Well, let me let you in on a little secret. All problems come from within and I help you not only go within and find the answer, but also make peace with the answer so you can finally live the life you are meant to live.....a life full of happiness, joy, tranquility, success, and prosperity instead of living with feelings of defeat, desperation, disappointment, and hopelessness.
(910) 490-4067 View (910) 490-4067
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 Anna Mulhollem, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnston County, NC
Anna Mulhollem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I serve individual adults needing support with emotion regulation, chronic pain, grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. It takes so much courage to be on this journey, and it can be overwhelming to search for a therapist. I get that and will meet you right where you are. As a psychotherapist and former mental health peer support specialist, I bring my lived experience and professional expertise to our work together. My goal is to co-create a space with you of trust, compassion, and respect to build a foundation for healing. I am honored to join you on your path.
I serve individual adults needing support with emotion regulation, chronic pain, grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. It takes so much courage to be on this journey, and it can be overwhelming to search for a therapist. I get that and will meet you right where you are. As a psychotherapist and former mental health peer support specialist, I bring my lived experience and professional expertise to our work together. My goal is to co-create a space with you of trust, compassion, and respect to build a foundation for healing. I am honored to join you on your path.
(919) 289-4161 View (919) 289-4161
Photo of Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703  (Online Only)
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
(919) 823-6654 View (919) 823-6654
Photo of Anne Mauldin, Psychologist in Johnston County, NC
Anne Mauldin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
(252) 455-9998 View (252) 455-9998
Photo of Valarie Anne Snell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnston County, NC
Valarie Anne Snell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
Waitlist for new clients
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
(336) 754-2119 x228 View (336) 754-2119 x228
Photo of 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 Triangle Wellness and Recovery PLLC in Johnston County, NC
Triangle Wellness and Recovery PLLC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
Our team takes an integrative, cross-disciplinary approach to whole-person wellness and recovery. The clients we work with struggle with a broad range of physical and mental health symptoms and conditions including anxiety and mood disorders, depression and bipolar depression, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, chronic pain, substance or alcohol abuse, compulsive behaviors, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. We tailor your treatment plan to start where you are right now and help you build a meaningful, satisfying life that is unique to your personal goals and desires.
Our team takes an integrative, cross-disciplinary approach to whole-person wellness and recovery. The clients we work with struggle with a broad range of physical and mental health symptoms and conditions including anxiety and mood disorders, depression and bipolar depression, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, chronic pain, substance or alcohol abuse, compulsive behaviors, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. We tailor your treatment plan to start where you are right now and help you build a meaningful, satisfying life that is unique to your personal goals and desires.
(984) 205-8011 View (984) 205-8011
Photo of Samantha Quiel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnston County, NC
Samantha Quiel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
My specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, chronic illness, and survivors of interpersonal violence.
Accepting New Clients-I believe that we all face unique challenges throughout our lives. I provide a space for you to authentically be yourself, without judgment. I aim to forge a trusting relationship to help you feel comfortable discussing your most protected thoughts and feelings. I provide support as we process through tough times, ask questions, and work with you to find solutions to your challenges. There are no quick fixes, but developing life skills, improving self-respect, and connecting with loved ones can be key in building a positive path for your future. We will create a custom treatment plan that works best for you.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, chronic illness, and survivors of interpersonal violence.
Accepting New Clients-I believe that we all face unique challenges throughout our lives. I provide a space for you to authentically be yourself, without judgment. I aim to forge a trusting relationship to help you feel comfortable discussing your most protected thoughts and feelings. I provide support as we process through tough times, ask questions, and work with you to find solutions to your challenges. There are no quick fixes, but developing life skills, improving self-respect, and connecting with loved ones can be key in building a positive path for your future. We will create a custom treatment plan that works best for you.
(919) 289-4023 View (919) 289-4023
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 Black-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 Black-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 Brittany Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnston County, NC
Brittany Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
A focus of mine is working with those affected by illness or a neurological disorder, such as Traumatic brain injury (TBI), Parkinson's disorder, or Stroke.
I believe that we have all of the tools in us already to make the change we desire. Therapy can serve to identify and access those qualities, offering a place to create a safe relationship and to explore and strengthen ones' sense of self, and to work through challenges. Do you have trouble liking yourself? Do you struggle with low confidence, anxiety or other intense emotions, such as shame or guilt? In my relational approach to treatment, I strive to find a balance, reduce suffering, and work toward the change the individual desires.
A focus of mine is working with those affected by illness or a neurological disorder, such as Traumatic brain injury (TBI), Parkinson's disorder, or Stroke.
I believe that we have all of the tools in us already to make the change we desire. Therapy can serve to identify and access those qualities, offering a place to create a safe relationship and to explore and strengthen ones' sense of self, and to work through challenges. Do you have trouble liking yourself? Do you struggle with low confidence, anxiety or other intense emotions, such as shame or guilt? In my relational approach to treatment, I strive to find a balance, reduce suffering, and work toward the change the individual desires.
(919) 323-3832 View (919) 323-3832
Photo of Tita Johnson, Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Tita Johnson
Counselor, LCMHC, LPC/S, MAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27804  (Online Only)
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
(843) 428-6596 View (843) 428-6596
Photo of Amy G Therriault, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Johnston County, NC
Amy G Therriault
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunn, NC 28334  (Online Only)
What thoughts race through your mind as you go through the day? What thoughts have become obstacles? Do those thoughts hold you captive in states of anxiety and depression? Do they make you feel unsafe, insecure, and isolated, even when we are surrounded by others? Do these thoughts make relationships complicated and responsibilities seem impossible? Are your mental and emotional stressors effecting your physical well-being in ways like physical pain, fatigue, sensory intolerance, brain fog, and inability to focus? Exploring your thoughts and feelings can be difficult, but you do not have to walk through this process alone.
What thoughts race through your mind as you go through the day? What thoughts have become obstacles? Do those thoughts hold you captive in states of anxiety and depression? Do they make you feel unsafe, insecure, and isolated, even when we are surrounded by others? Do these thoughts make relationships complicated and responsibilities seem impossible? Are your mental and emotional stressors effecting your physical well-being in ways like physical pain, fatigue, sensory intolerance, brain fog, and inability to focus? Exploring your thoughts and feelings can be difficult, but you do not have to walk through this process alone.
(919) 646-2779 View (919) 646-2779
Photo of Teresa Vaughan, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Johnston County, NC
Teresa Vaughan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
I am grounded in CBT, but also believe in the power of art and movement in the healing of emotional pain.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change.
I am grounded in CBT, but also believe in the power of art and movement in the healing of emotional pain.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change.
(252) 689-7203 View (252) 689-7203

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.