Photo of Kimberly Autrey, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Lexington, NC
Kimberly Autrey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, ACC
Verified Verified
Lexington, NC 27292  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. As a therapist, I love seeing people grow and make the changes they want to restore balance to their lives. My goal is to help you navigate life's challenges by offering a safe space to share your feelings and to deepen your understanding of your emotional health. I frequently serve clients experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, grief, relationship struggles, and school and work transitions. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or just feeling stuck, today you are one step closer to feeling empowered to move forward in your life.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. As a therapist, I love seeing people grow and make the changes they want to restore balance to their lives. My goal is to help you navigate life's challenges by offering a safe space to share your feelings and to deepen your understanding of your emotional health. I frequently serve clients experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, grief, relationship struggles, and school and work transitions. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or just feeling stuck, today you are one step closer to feeling empowered to move forward in your life.
(336) 791-0876 View (336) 791-0876

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tamika Wright, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Lexington, NC
Tamika Wright
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thomasville, NC 27360
As your counselor, I am here to support you in making meaning, creating comfort, and uncovering resources to help you be your best self. Taking an evidenced-based, client centered, and existentially informed approach, I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where we can collaborate and work at your own pace to help you reach your goals.
As your counselor, I am here to support you in making meaning, creating comfort, and uncovering resources to help you be your best self. Taking an evidenced-based, client centered, and existentially informed approach, I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where we can collaborate and work at your own pace to help you reach your goals.
(704) 459-8953 View (704) 459-8953

Online Therapists

Photo of Tiffany Rogers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lexington, NC
Tiffany Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCASA, NCC, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612
However, what I can do is stand with you in your pain while we get through it together! I can guarantee you that I will provide you with professional counseling without judgment but with empathy and compassion .
Ever felt alone, rejected or misunderstood? Or simply just felt overwhelmed with many obstacles coming at once? If you have, you are not the only one, nor are you in this by yourself. In fact, I believe that it is my duty and my obligation to give you support and help you realize that there is a way to get your life back, to become a better you! Regardless if it is addiction, depression, anxiety or just overall life- you can overcome whatever you are facing with the right tools , skills and support.
However, what I can do is stand with you in your pain while we get through it together! I can guarantee you that I will provide you with professional counseling without judgment but with empathy and compassion .
Ever felt alone, rejected or misunderstood? Or simply just felt overwhelmed with many obstacles coming at once? If you have, you are not the only one, nor are you in this by yourself. In fact, I believe that it is my duty and my obligation to give you support and help you realize that there is a way to get your life back, to become a better you! Regardless if it is addiction, depression, anxiety or just overall life- you can overcome whatever you are facing with the right tools , skills and support.
(984) 207-3267 View (984) 207-3267
Photo of Marty Weems, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, NC
Marty Weems
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Sometimes we struggle and need help finding our way back to the life we want to live. We may experience feelings of anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and guilt. As a therapist, I aim to create a safe space for my clients to explore their feelings and experiences, and ultimately move towards the things they value. My practice is rooted in compassion, acceptance, and non-judgement. As a LGBTQI affirming therapist, I also recognize the role that oppression plays in creating and maintaining psychological pain. As such, the queer community is a priority in my work.
Sometimes we struggle and need help finding our way back to the life we want to live. We may experience feelings of anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and guilt. As a therapist, I aim to create a safe space for my clients to explore their feelings and experiences, and ultimately move towards the things they value. My practice is rooted in compassion, acceptance, and non-judgement. As a LGBTQI affirming therapist, I also recognize the role that oppression plays in creating and maintaining psychological pain. As such, the queer community is a priority in my work.
(919) 629-0043 View (919) 629-0043
Photo of Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Lexington, 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 Sarah Harrocks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, NC
Sarah Harrocks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMBT
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
We are all journeying through life. At times the path you are traveling becomes unclear and may require action to move the debris blocking your way. Debris may show up as depression, anxiety, self-doubt, or even fear. There may also have been something along your journey which caused you great pain that could be hindering your ability to move forward in life. Counseling can support you with clearing the way so that you may see yourself and your path more clearly, allowing you to live the life you most desire.
We are all journeying through life. At times the path you are traveling becomes unclear and may require action to move the debris blocking your way. Debris may show up as depression, anxiety, self-doubt, or even fear. There may also have been something along your journey which caused you great pain that could be hindering your ability to move forward in life. Counseling can support you with clearing the way so that you may see yourself and your path more clearly, allowing you to live the life you most desire.
(919) 858-6073 View (919) 858-6073
Photo of Alysann Whitley Price, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, NC
Alysann Whitley Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
(919) 925-4566 View (919) 925-4566
Photo of Patricia S. Duggan, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Lexington, 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 Megan Wrast, Counselor in Lexington, NC
Megan Wrast
Counselor, LCMHCA, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27617
My counseling experiences have allowed me to work with individuals ranging from elementary aged children, to elderly adults. I have obtained a skillset working with individuals who have been involved in the criminal justice system, have experienced a variety of trauma, have been living with severe and persistent mental illness, have interacted with juvie and foster care systems, have experienced human trafficking, face daily challenges with anxiety, depression, & life transitions as well as individuals that have histories of abuse. I am passionate about working with individuals to reach their goals, and live authentically.
My counseling experiences have allowed me to work with individuals ranging from elementary aged children, to elderly adults. I have obtained a skillset working with individuals who have been involved in the criminal justice system, have experienced a variety of trauma, have been living with severe and persistent mental illness, have interacted with juvie and foster care systems, have experienced human trafficking, face daily challenges with anxiety, depression, & life transitions as well as individuals that have histories of abuse. I am passionate about working with individuals to reach their goals, and live authentically.
(984) 689-9852 View (984) 689-9852
Photo of Diana D. Landers, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lexington, NC
Diana D. Landers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28273
I have a special interest in working with families, with men, and with illness or chronic pain.
A lonely moment. A slight stressor. A tipping point or crisis. A sense of vulnerability or troubling thoughts. Maybe you are in physical pain. Something has called you to therapy, and you are seeking a guide to walk alongside you. My goal is to provide you both a place of comfort and autonomy, yet ensure we have the flexibility and willingness to go where we must. I am a therapist. I am also a parent, a spouse, a daughter, and a sibling. I believe that family bonds, or lack thereof, shape who we become and I cannot guide you where I haven’t also been myself.
I have a special interest in working with families, with men, and with illness or chronic pain.
A lonely moment. A slight stressor. A tipping point or crisis. A sense of vulnerability or troubling thoughts. Maybe you are in physical pain. Something has called you to therapy, and you are seeking a guide to walk alongside you. My goal is to provide you both a place of comfort and autonomy, yet ensure we have the flexibility and willingness to go where we must. I am a therapist. I am also a parent, a spouse, a daughter, and a sibling. I believe that family bonds, or lack thereof, shape who we become and I cannot guide you where I haven’t also been myself.
(704) 850-5876 View (704) 850-5876
Photo of The Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Center of Charlot, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Lexington, NC
The Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Center of Charlot
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Particular areas of focus include anxiety, depression, addictions, and chronic pain.
You have a right to a better life, to live with less distress; to have a life with possibility, potential, and vitality. I have worked with people like you who have found that within the warm, accepting, nonjudgmental, and supportive environment of our therapeutic relationship that change becomes possible. I invite you to be courageous and to reach beyond your fears to claim the life that you want. Utilizing established, researched, and respected therapies, I treat many emotional and behavioral disorders by helping clients face their struggles and move towards a valued life.
Particular areas of focus include anxiety, depression, addictions, and chronic pain.
You have a right to a better life, to live with less distress; to have a life with possibility, potential, and vitality. I have worked with people like you who have found that within the warm, accepting, nonjudgmental, and supportive environment of our therapeutic relationship that change becomes possible. I invite you to be courageous and to reach beyond your fears to claim the life that you want. Utilizing established, researched, and respected therapies, I treat many emotional and behavioral disorders by helping clients face their struggles and move towards a valued life.
(980) 399-5470 View (980) 399-5470
Photo of Carolina Counseling and Therapeutic Solutions, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Lexington, NC
Carolina Counseling and Therapeutic Solutions
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC-A, LCAS-A, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I specialize in treating the emotional effect of physical pain, addiction, chronic health conditions and losses including divorce, infertility, job loss.
Providing safety for you to talk about what's on your mind is important to me. Whether this is the first time you've sought help or you've been in therapy before, I can help you cope with your life in meaningful ways. I work collaboratively with you toward your goals. Your courage and desire for change coupled with my compassion and experience helps you to make improvements in your life. Together we will develop goals which can become a long term plan of action. I will help you create a plan for a better future.
I specialize in treating the emotional effect of physical pain, addiction, chronic health conditions and losses including divorce, infertility, job loss.
Providing safety for you to talk about what's on your mind is important to me. Whether this is the first time you've sought help or you've been in therapy before, I can help you cope with your life in meaningful ways. I work collaboratively with you toward your goals. Your courage and desire for change coupled with my compassion and experience helps you to make improvements in your life. Together we will develop goals which can become a long term plan of action. I will help you create a plan for a better future.
(919) 888-4531 View (919) 888-4531
Photo of Clarity Psychological Wellness, Psychologist in Lexington, NC
Clarity Psychological Wellness
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Accepting New Clients! Struggling to find meaningful connection in your life? Sometimes the harder we work to come up for air, the more we feel like we are drowning. We have specialized training in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, insomnia, disordered eating, chronic illness, and depression. Our focus is not just on short term symptom relief, but long term understanding of the dynamics that keep us stuck. We'll take the time to truly understand your history, triggers, and all contributing factors in order to build an individualized plan for treatment.
Accepting New Clients! Struggling to find meaningful connection in your life? Sometimes the harder we work to come up for air, the more we feel like we are drowning. We have specialized training in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, insomnia, disordered eating, chronic illness, and depression. Our focus is not just on short term symptom relief, but long term understanding of the dynamics that keep us stuck. We'll take the time to truly understand your history, triggers, and all contributing factors in order to build an individualized plan for treatment.
(984) 459-7666 x1 View (984) 459-7666 x1
Photo of Kathy Elias, MA, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Lexington, NC
Kathy Elias, MA
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, sadness, grief or loss, fear, shame or guilt? Do you feel withdrawn or go against your own values to please others, or even lash out sometimes because you don’t know what to do with how you feel? Holding feelings inside can lead to many problems including depression, anxiety, physical illness or ailments, and disconnection from friends and family. Are you your own worst critic and condemn yourself? Do you feel stuck, or lost in life and sometimes wonder who you are? You want to feel better but don't know how to get there.
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, sadness, grief or loss, fear, shame or guilt? Do you feel withdrawn or go against your own values to please others, or even lash out sometimes because you don’t know what to do with how you feel? Holding feelings inside can lead to many problems including depression, anxiety, physical illness or ailments, and disconnection from friends and family. Are you your own worst critic and condemn yourself? Do you feel stuck, or lost in life and sometimes wonder who you are? You want to feel better but don't know how to get there.
(919) 443-5817 View (919) 443-5817
Photo of Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Lexington, NC
Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCMHC-S, LCAS, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
(980) 338-4035 View (980) 338-4035
Photo of Lucyna Sonek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lexington, NC
Lucyna Sonek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPsych, MA, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
(828) 527-0143 View (828) 527-0143
Photo of Karen Maynard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lexington, NC
Karen Maynard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Clemmons, NC 27012
Stress and emotional pain certainly impact employment/school performance, interpersonal relationships, and physical health. Chronic stress/emotional pain can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and misguided coping through substances. It changes your perception; contributes to conflict with family/friends and situations previously managed become overwhelming. If this sounds familiar, Health Matters can help.
Stress and emotional pain certainly impact employment/school performance, interpersonal relationships, and physical health. Chronic stress/emotional pain can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and misguided coping through substances. It changes your perception; contributes to conflict with family/friends and situations previously managed become overwhelming. If this sounds familiar, Health Matters can help.
(336) 515-0738 View (336) 515-0738
Photo of Emily Ann Dew-Adorno, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Lexington, 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
Photo of Gilded Peace Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in Lexington, 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 Cindy W Hickman, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Lexington, 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

See more therapy options for Lexington

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.