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Online Therapists

Photo of Ashley Merchant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Lure, NC
Ashley Merchant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brevard, NC 28712  (Online Only)
We live in a world quickly changing with many demands and stressors. Therapy is like working out at a gym. Instead, it is building inner strength and emotional fitness. Traumas or events can happen in life leading to a dysregulated nervous system. We can experience the loss of a job, partner, or identity; the loss of a loved one or pet; disease, illness, financial instability; relationship or family issues, or housing crisis that spin our worlds upside down. Maybe it is low self-worth, stress, or feeling stuck in life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to be a supportive ally for your growth.
We live in a world quickly changing with many demands and stressors. Therapy is like working out at a gym. Instead, it is building inner strength and emotional fitness. Traumas or events can happen in life leading to a dysregulated nervous system. We can experience the loss of a job, partner, or identity; the loss of a loved one or pet; disease, illness, financial instability; relationship or family issues, or housing crisis that spin our worlds upside down. Maybe it is low self-worth, stress, or feeling stuck in life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to be a supportive ally for your growth.
(828) 622-4095 View (828) 622-4095
Photo of Michelle Einson, Psychologist in Lake Lure, NC
Michelle Einson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
With over 14 years in the medical setting, I also specialize in chronic illness, bereavement and pain management.
Raising a child with developmental, medical, or psychological difficulties can be a struggle for even the best of families. Couples, as well, often need help with navigating the myriad of "man/woman communication styles and parenting difficulties..
With over 14 years in the medical setting, I also specialize in chronic illness, bereavement and pain management.
Raising a child with developmental, medical, or psychological difficulties can be a struggle for even the best of families. Couples, as well, often need help with navigating the myriad of "man/woman communication styles and parenting difficulties..
(980) 389-2892 View (980) 389-2892
Photo of Anna McDonough, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Lure, 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 Deborah Whitley Van Wieren, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Lake Lure, 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 Chronic Health Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Lure, NC
Chronic Health Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025
Living with a chronic medical condition such as diabetes, chronic pain, cancer, or neurological disorders can take a toll on our emotional well-being making it even more difficult to live with the illness. Whether you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition, or have been living with a chronic illness for many years emotions such as sadness, hopelessness, fear, anxiety, and even anger can emerge making life difficult to face. I am here to help you find ways to express such emotions and work toward finding a sense of peace and joy.
Living with a chronic medical condition such as diabetes, chronic pain, cancer, or neurological disorders can take a toll on our emotional well-being making it even more difficult to live with the illness. Whether you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition, or have been living with a chronic illness for many years emotions such as sadness, hopelessness, fear, anxiety, and even anger can emerge making life difficult to face. I am here to help you find ways to express such emotions and work toward finding a sense of peace and joy.
(704) 842-9915 View (704) 842-9915
Photo of Samii Stephens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Lure, NC
Samii Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Hi there! Thank you for taking the initiative to seek care for yourself or a loved one. I have multiple years of experience in working with adolescents and adults in the mental health field. Primarily, my areas of focus are treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain/chronic illness and mental health in athletes. I appreciate holistic approaches to therapy but I enjoy being able to adapt treatment to the unique characteristics/needs of each client. My hope is to be a support for you as you reach your goals, face obstacles and celebrate victories!
Hi there! Thank you for taking the initiative to seek care for yourself or a loved one. I have multiple years of experience in working with adolescents and adults in the mental health field. Primarily, my areas of focus are treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain/chronic illness and mental health in athletes. I appreciate holistic approaches to therapy but I enjoy being able to adapt treatment to the unique characteristics/needs of each client. My hope is to be a support for you as you reach your goals, face obstacles and celebrate victories!
(704) 272-1379 View (704) 272-1379
Photo of Jeremy T. Cochran - Cochran Christian Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lake Lure, 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 Gene Haas, Psychological Associate in Lake Lure, NC
Gene Haas
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
Clients with chronic illness, or pain, or PTSD work well with my approach to therapy including the use of EMDR.
I work best with an individual client, couple, or the family of a child or adolescent that recognizes that what they have been trying to do to deal with their life or behavioral issues is not working well, and they are now open to finding understanding, and trying new approaches to old, or recently acute problems. My experience has been that most couples really want to save their marriage or other family relationships and will do the work necessary to build a new and loving relationship.
Clients with chronic illness, or pain, or PTSD work well with my approach to therapy including the use of EMDR.
I work best with an individual client, couple, or the family of a child or adolescent that recognizes that what they have been trying to do to deal with their life or behavioral issues is not working well, and they are now open to finding understanding, and trying new approaches to old, or recently acute problems. My experience has been that most couples really want to save their marriage or other family relationships and will do the work necessary to build a new and loving relationship.
(704) 326-1197 View (704) 326-1197
Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Lure, 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 Will Hamilton, Psychologist in Lake Lure, NC
Will Hamilton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I’m very comfortable helping patients with long-term meditation practices, those who might be struggling with shame, chronic illnesses or pain, difficult experiences from the past, or want to be more loving.
Offering Teletherapy in Most States: I primarily use IFS and behavioral treatments (ACT, DBT, CFT, RODBT) to emphasize acceptance of one's current experience, the development of skills (mindfulness, play, perspective, assertiveness, inquiry, and values), and use courage and experimentation to help promote change. I also help facilitate ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and I am strong advocate of developing the skill of compassion for oneself and others. Many of us struggle with finding a sense of being home with reality as it is, although that home is always available and may be easier to return to than assumed.
I’m very comfortable helping patients with long-term meditation practices, those who might be struggling with shame, chronic illnesses or pain, difficult experiences from the past, or want to be more loving.
Offering Teletherapy in Most States: I primarily use IFS and behavioral treatments (ACT, DBT, CFT, RODBT) to emphasize acceptance of one's current experience, the development of skills (mindfulness, play, perspective, assertiveness, inquiry, and values), and use courage and experimentation to help promote change. I also help facilitate ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and I am strong advocate of developing the skill of compassion for oneself and others. Many of us struggle with finding a sense of being home with reality as it is, although that home is always available and may be easier to return to than assumed.
(828) 237-4975 View (828) 237-4975
Photo of Jennifer Beeghly, Psychologist in Lake Lure, NC
Jennifer Beeghly
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I have specialized expertise in providing evidenced-based therapy to treat PTSD, adjustment from military service, relationship dissatisfaction, couple therapy, insomnia, pain, anxiety, somatic concerns, suicidality, and depression.
I am a licensed doctoral level clinical psychologist who provides individual and couple therapy. My approach is individualized based on the specific needs and goals of each client or couple and involves providing warmth and genuineness. My role is to assist you in gaining insight and perspective into the obstacles that are limiting you from living the life that you desire using a supportive and non-judgmental style that will facilitate personal exploration.
I have specialized expertise in providing evidenced-based therapy to treat PTSD, adjustment from military service, relationship dissatisfaction, couple therapy, insomnia, pain, anxiety, somatic concerns, suicidality, and depression.
I am a licensed doctoral level clinical psychologist who provides individual and couple therapy. My approach is individualized based on the specific needs and goals of each client or couple and involves providing warmth and genuineness. My role is to assist you in gaining insight and perspective into the obstacles that are limiting you from living the life that you desire using a supportive and non-judgmental style that will facilitate personal exploration.
(828) 528-3413 View (828) 528-3413
Photo of Madison See Holcombe, Counselor in Lake Lure, NC
Madison See Holcombe
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031  (Online Only)
Most of our day is spent running on auto-pilot, but what if you took a moment to look at yourself beyond the roles, the things you do, and the people you please? Do you like who you are? Is this the life you want? Are your relationships working? Could there be something more? ​Maybe there is something more...
Most of our day is spent running on auto-pilot, but what if you took a moment to look at yourself beyond the roles, the things you do, and the people you please? Do you like who you are? Is this the life you want? Are your relationships working? Could there be something more? ​Maybe there is something more...
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Photo of Laura Gundel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Lure, NC
Laura Gundel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
People who seek help through the stresses and traumas of life instead of succumbing to them are the bravest people I know. Although therapy may not feel courageous, at some point, we all need the presence and compassionate care of someone committed to our healing process. This is my passion. I work with courageous people who choose to move toward wholeness while continuing to live and care for the responsibilities of their lives. A large part of my work is devoted to helping men and women work through traumatic experiences in the present and those remembered from the past.
People who seek help through the stresses and traumas of life instead of succumbing to them are the bravest people I know. Although therapy may not feel courageous, at some point, we all need the presence and compassionate care of someone committed to our healing process. This is my passion. I work with courageous people who choose to move toward wholeness while continuing to live and care for the responsibilities of their lives. A large part of my work is devoted to helping men and women work through traumatic experiences in the present and those remembered from the past.
(980) 243-4149 x2 View (980) 243-4149 x2
Photo of Joy Martin in Lake Lure, NC
Joy Martin
PhD, LCMHCS, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
I have been in the helping field for over fifteen years. I work with children, adolescents, couples, & families.Working with all of these age groups has helped me to have a better worldview of how issues affect us throughout different stages of our lives.My approach is cognitive behavioral therapy with family systems, but I also believe that an integrated approach alows us to use the events that have hurt us over the years to actually strengthen us today. I do EMDR as well. It is a process but I am here to guide & support you through getting to a healthier you.I am full of gratitude for the opportunties I have to work with you.
I have been in the helping field for over fifteen years. I work with children, adolescents, couples, & families.Working with all of these age groups has helped me to have a better worldview of how issues affect us throughout different stages of our lives.My approach is cognitive behavioral therapy with family systems, but I also believe that an integrated approach alows us to use the events that have hurt us over the years to actually strengthen us today. I do EMDR as well. It is a process but I am here to guide & support you through getting to a healthier you.I am full of gratitude for the opportunties I have to work with you.
(828) 382-8565 View (828) 382-8565
Photo of Dr. Randi Konikoff, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Lake Lure, NC
Dr. Randi Konikoff
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHCS, LCAS, BCTMHC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078  (Online Only)
Dr. Randi Konikoff has a passion for helping clients to become students of themselves, thereby learning how to use their mind, body, and spirit in healthy and self-edifying ways. She is a Board Certified National Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Certified Clinical Military Counselor, Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor, Certified Hypnotherapy Instructor, Certified Employee Assistance Professional, Certified Tele-Mental Health Counselor, Certified Brain Health Coach, Neuro-Psychotherapist. She is licensed in NC, SC, GA and VA.
Dr. Randi Konikoff has a passion for helping clients to become students of themselves, thereby learning how to use their mind, body, and spirit in healthy and self-edifying ways. She is a Board Certified National Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Certified Clinical Military Counselor, Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor, Certified Hypnotherapy Instructor, Certified Employee Assistance Professional, Certified Tele-Mental Health Counselor, Certified Brain Health Coach, Neuro-Psychotherapist. She is licensed in NC, SC, GA and VA.
(704) 228-4001 View (704) 228-4001
Photo of Marie Leskauskas, Counselor in Lake Lure, NC
Marie Leskauskas
Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Each person is a unique individual whose life and experience is different from anyone else, and deserves to be addressed with unconditional positive regard for themselves and their circumstances. This is why I place an emphasis on authenticity and the importance of understanding each person as a whole, focusing on healing through the integration of mental, physical, and spiritual health. As a therapist, I will involve strategies and techniques including CBT, sandtray and sandplay, motivational interviewing, addressing the mind and body connection, and the incorporation of ongoing psychoeducation.
Each person is a unique individual whose life and experience is different from anyone else, and deserves to be addressed with unconditional positive regard for themselves and their circumstances. This is why I place an emphasis on authenticity and the importance of understanding each person as a whole, focusing on healing through the integration of mental, physical, and spiritual health. As a therapist, I will involve strategies and techniques including CBT, sandtray and sandplay, motivational interviewing, addressing the mind and body connection, and the incorporation of ongoing psychoeducation.
(980) 575-5082 View (980) 575-5082
Photo of Monica L Mouer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Lure, NC
Monica L Mouer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
Life is meant to be enjoyed, not endured. If you lack satisfaction in your life, counseling can help. I have a passion to see individuals live to their full potential with peace of mind, purpose in action and joy for everyday living. With over 15 years experience in counseling, education and pastoral ministry combined, I offer an educated perspective on many life issues. I am a trained in many trauma based and relational/family approaches to wholeness. I have extensive experience in working with teens and their families, couples and women's issues especially trauma, anger, emotional regulation, anxiety & depression.
Life is meant to be enjoyed, not endured. If you lack satisfaction in your life, counseling can help. I have a passion to see individuals live to their full potential with peace of mind, purpose in action and joy for everyday living. With over 15 years experience in counseling, education and pastoral ministry combined, I offer an educated perspective on many life issues. I am a trained in many trauma based and relational/family approaches to wholeness. I have extensive experience in working with teens and their families, couples and women's issues especially trauma, anger, emotional regulation, anxiety & depression.
(704) 869-2018 View (704) 869-2018
Photo of Marsha Virginia Hammond, Psychologist in Lake Lure, NC
Marsha Virginia Hammond
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28806
An “ideal client” does not exist. Our strengths & weaknesses ebb & flow & simply outline human existence. This being said, persistence & determination—-on the part of the client—— and trusting that the psychologist has their best interest at heart—- encourage sought-after changes to occur.
An “ideal client” does not exist. Our strengths & weaknesses ebb & flow & simply outline human existence. This being said, persistence & determination—-on the part of the client—— and trusting that the psychologist has their best interest at heart—- encourage sought-after changes to occur.
(828) 383-9707 View (828) 383-9707
Photo of Yazmeen A Garcia, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Lake Lure, NC
Yazmeen A Garcia
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
I currently serve clients from ages 10-100, with my primary focus being adolescents and adults. I am a mental health counselor as well as a licensed clinical addiction specialist, meaning I love working with both mental health disorders and addictions. When working with mental health, I serve those struggling with anxiety/depression, trauma/sexual abuse, bipolar I or II disorder, dissociative-identity disorder, grief, self-esteem concerns, identity matters, religious or spiritual factors, stress management, and those on the autism spectrum. My goals for my clients are to be able to increase their sense of self-worth and autonomy.
I currently serve clients from ages 10-100, with my primary focus being adolescents and adults. I am a mental health counselor as well as a licensed clinical addiction specialist, meaning I love working with both mental health disorders and addictions. When working with mental health, I serve those struggling with anxiety/depression, trauma/sexual abuse, bipolar I or II disorder, dissociative-identity disorder, grief, self-esteem concerns, identity matters, religious or spiritual factors, stress management, and those on the autism spectrum. My goals for my clients are to be able to increase their sense of self-worth and autonomy.
(980) 261-3768 View (980) 261-3768
Photo of Malissa Turney, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Lake Lure, NC
Malissa Turney
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28806
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor whose primary treatment modalities are Somatic Experiencing and other body/physiology focused models. My specialty is creating a safe and contained space where deep shifts can occur, stabilize, and integrate. These deep shifts can show up as decreased anxiety and post-traumatic symptoms, decreased physical symptoms, a stronger sense of personal boundaries, as well as greater resiliency in the face of challenges. I have extensive experience counseling people who have suffered traumatic injuries, illnesses, surgeries, and emotional trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor whose primary treatment modalities are Somatic Experiencing and other body/physiology focused models. My specialty is creating a safe and contained space where deep shifts can occur, stabilize, and integrate. These deep shifts can show up as decreased anxiety and post-traumatic symptoms, decreased physical symptoms, a stronger sense of personal boundaries, as well as greater resiliency in the face of challenges. I have extensive experience counseling people who have suffered traumatic injuries, illnesses, surgeries, and emotional trauma.
(828) 615-8364 View (828) 615-8364

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.