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Online Therapists

Photo of The International Center for Wellness PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lincolnton, NC
The International Center for Wellness PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
(704) 327-5647 x101 View (704) 327-5647 x101
Photo of Tim Bandell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lincolnton, NC
Tim Bandell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTTS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with hopelessness, ongoing despair, lack of motivation, worrying, panic? Can't relax? Is your past wreaking havoc on your present? Chronic pain consuming your life? Does it feel like life is just too much? Is your baggage damaging your relationship? In a safe space, I provide therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship stress, trauma, chronic pain or life transitions.
Are you struggling with hopelessness, ongoing despair, lack of motivation, worrying, panic? Can't relax? Is your past wreaking havoc on your present? Chronic pain consuming your life? Does it feel like life is just too much? Is your baggage damaging your relationship? In a safe space, I provide therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship stress, trauma, chronic pain or life transitions.
(828) 383-8385 View (828) 383-8385
Photo of Kristin Bure, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lincolnton, NC
Kristin Bure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
For all of us, there are times when we seek a new direction, a way forward, a fresh possibility for living. Are you feeling stuck or wanting to improve some aspect of your life or yourself? Are you using substances to cope with mental health issues such mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, or chronic pain, stress and life transitions? If you’re here, you know things aren’t okay and life feels unmanageable. Substance use and/or mental health disorders can hijack your life. I can help you get back into the driver’s seat. I can help you feel more empowered to access your innate inner strengths, and reach your fullest recovery potential.
For all of us, there are times when we seek a new direction, a way forward, a fresh possibility for living. Are you feeling stuck or wanting to improve some aspect of your life or yourself? Are you using substances to cope with mental health issues such mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, or chronic pain, stress and life transitions? If you’re here, you know things aren’t okay and life feels unmanageable. Substance use and/or mental health disorders can hijack your life. I can help you get back into the driver’s seat. I can help you feel more empowered to access your innate inner strengths, and reach your fullest recovery potential.
(828) 575-5984 View (828) 575-5984
Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lincolnton, 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 Katie Fitzpatrick Camenzind, Psychologist in Lincolnton, NC
Katie Fitzpatrick Camenzind
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mills River, NC 28759
Waitlist for new clients
In times like these it can feel like you’re losing a lot: losing hope, losing sleep, losing control. But pain can be productive. Struggles can be opportunities to see what we're made of. They can also be the impetus to make changes we've been putting off, maybe out of fear that they would upset the balance we work so hard to maintain. Right now during this pandemic, it's hard to find one thing in our lives that hasn't changed and there are so many unknowns. It can be very difficult to persevere when you can't see the light at the end of the tunnel and when your usual outlets for support and coping are now limited.
In times like these it can feel like you’re losing a lot: losing hope, losing sleep, losing control. But pain can be productive. Struggles can be opportunities to see what we're made of. They can also be the impetus to make changes we've been putting off, maybe out of fear that they would upset the balance we work so hard to maintain. Right now during this pandemic, it's hard to find one thing in our lives that hasn't changed and there are so many unknowns. It can be very difficult to persevere when you can't see the light at the end of the tunnel and when your usual outlets for support and coping are now limited.
(828) 383-9981 View (828) 383-9981
Photo of Michelle Einson, Psychologist in Lincolnton, 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 SHINE Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lincolnton, NC
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
We want to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to living your best life as you want it to be.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
We want to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to living your best life as you want it to be.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
(704) 327-0132 View (704) 327-0132
Photo of Rebecca Fugate, Counselor in Lincolnton, NC
Rebecca Fugate
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Black Mountain, NC 28711  (Online Only)
Many people arrive in therapy in emotional pain and distress.
I provide individual therapy services to adults of all ages, and am licensed to practice in NC. I have over 20 years of experience working with clients of various backgrounds and life situations. I worked for years providing therapy in adult community mental health settings, a college counseling center, as well as experience serving as a Mental Health therapist for Native American/tribal population. I am well experienced in treatment of anxiety (including OCD, Generalized Anxiety, Phobia, Panic Disorder, etc), depression, grief/loss, codependency, life adjustment/transitions, family of origin issues, and PTSD.
Many people arrive in therapy in emotional pain and distress.
I provide individual therapy services to adults of all ages, and am licensed to practice in NC. I have over 20 years of experience working with clients of various backgrounds and life situations. I worked for years providing therapy in adult community mental health settings, a college counseling center, as well as experience serving as a Mental Health therapist for Native American/tribal population. I am well experienced in treatment of anxiety (including OCD, Generalized Anxiety, Phobia, Panic Disorder, etc), depression, grief/loss, codependency, life adjustment/transitions, family of origin issues, and PTSD.
(828) 528-6879 View (828) 528-6879
Photo of Kathryn Falbo-Woodson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lincolnton, NC
Kathryn Falbo-Woodson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Stress is inevitable, it's how we respond to it that matters. While stress can be a catalyst for spiritual, physical, and emotional growth, it impacts our well-being. During stressful times, it's important to recognize emotional and physical changes. Often, we neglect our internal experiences because of the fear of pain. When we avoid the pain, we essentially shut ourselves off from growth. My goal is to support you through challenging times, allowing you to open fully to the present moment by incorporating compassion-oriented & mindfulness-based strategies to withstand the suffering and lean into a growth mindset.
Stress is inevitable, it's how we respond to it that matters. While stress can be a catalyst for spiritual, physical, and emotional growth, it impacts our well-being. During stressful times, it's important to recognize emotional and physical changes. Often, we neglect our internal experiences because of the fear of pain. When we avoid the pain, we essentially shut ourselves off from growth. My goal is to support you through challenging times, allowing you to open fully to the present moment by incorporating compassion-oriented & mindfulness-based strategies to withstand the suffering and lean into a growth mindset.
(318) 705-3019 View (318) 705-3019
Photo of Starr Renee Roberts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lincolnton, NC
Starr Renee Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, M ED, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Do you need someone to bear witness to your daily struggles, and pain? Do you need someone to listen to your story about the difficulties you are having in life that leave you feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Do you feel shut down, worried, anxious, tired, sad, or angry? Are you struggling with school, work, or financial issues? Are you struggling to make it through the day because you are having problems adjusting to changes in your life? Do you feel unappreciated or misunderstood by friends, family or your partner? Are you feeling unsteady or afraid because you've been abused.
Do you need someone to bear witness to your daily struggles, and pain? Do you need someone to listen to your story about the difficulties you are having in life that leave you feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Do you feel shut down, worried, anxious, tired, sad, or angry? Are you struggling with school, work, or financial issues? Are you struggling to make it through the day because you are having problems adjusting to changes in your life? Do you feel unappreciated or misunderstood by friends, family or your partner? Are you feeling unsteady or afraid because you've been abused.
(828) 458-7371 View (828) 458-7371
Photo of Deidre Montgomery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lincolnton, NC
Deidre Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
(336) 396-5798 View (336) 396-5798
Photo of Myriam Rabaste, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lincolnton, NC
Myriam Rabaste
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, EMDR, II
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
(704) 870-2290 View (704) 870-2290
Photo of Savana Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lincolnton, NC
Savana Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Candler, NC 28715  (Online Only)
I have worked with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and have experience in chronic pain/health psychology.
Accepting NEW clients! I know that finding a therapist can be an overwhelming process. I honor your courage and hope that I can provide a soft place for you to land. I aim to foster a safe, empowering, and collaborative space for my clients. Sometimes we find ourselves losing focus of our life's purpose. Together, we can help identify your values and incorporate them in your life. Through mindfulness practices and acceptance-based strategies, I can help you let go of what is no longer serving you. The ultimate goal for my clients is to decrease any areas of distress while pursuing your values and finding more meaning in your life.
I have worked with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and have experience in chronic pain/health psychology.
Accepting NEW clients! I know that finding a therapist can be an overwhelming process. I honor your courage and hope that I can provide a soft place for you to land. I aim to foster a safe, empowering, and collaborative space for my clients. Sometimes we find ourselves losing focus of our life's purpose. Together, we can help identify your values and incorporate them in your life. Through mindfulness practices and acceptance-based strategies, I can help you let go of what is no longer serving you. The ultimate goal for my clients is to decrease any areas of distress while pursuing your values and finding more meaning in your life.
(828) 539-4408 View (828) 539-4408
Photo of Yazmeen A Garcia, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Lincolnton, 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 Alli Becker, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Lincolnton, NC
Alli Becker
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you could wake up every morning feeling happy, fulfilled, and free of any consuming negative thoughts? If your answer is yes, you are in the right place. Whether you are struggling personally or in your relationships (of any sort: romantic, parent/child, etc.) we can help you. With over 15 years of experience with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples, we are able to provide world class treatment for a variety of mental health concerns. Take the step to end your suffering today. It is time for you to learn how to live the life you deserve.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you could wake up every morning feeling happy, fulfilled, and free of any consuming negative thoughts? If your answer is yes, you are in the right place. Whether you are struggling personally or in your relationships (of any sort: romantic, parent/child, etc.) we can help you. With over 15 years of experience with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples, we are able to provide world class treatment for a variety of mental health concerns. Take the step to end your suffering today. It is time for you to learn how to live the life you deserve.
(704) 869-2937 View (704) 869-2937
Photo of Emily J Materdo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lincolnton, NC
Emily J Materdo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025
Are you someone who is looking to gain an understanding of why it’s so hard to have a meaningful life? Maybe you have been searching endlessly for an answer to this question but has yet to find it. And coming to therapy feels overwhelming. Look no further because you've come to the right place! My ideal client is you. I help clients to understand their overwhelming emotions and how these emotions can affect our daily lives. When clients come to see me, I also share that most importantly what I offer is a different perspective. Using this approach builds trust with clients and insight of understanding my therapeutic approach.
Are you someone who is looking to gain an understanding of why it’s so hard to have a meaningful life? Maybe you have been searching endlessly for an answer to this question but has yet to find it. And coming to therapy feels overwhelming. Look no further because you've come to the right place! My ideal client is you. I help clients to understand their overwhelming emotions and how these emotions can affect our daily lives. When clients come to see me, I also share that most importantly what I offer is a different perspective. Using this approach builds trust with clients and insight of understanding my therapeutic approach.
(980) 372-8625 View (980) 372-8625
Photo of Esther Mendez, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Lincolnton, NC
Esther Mendez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27107
Personal power is necessary when bad things happen to good people. With over 18 years of experience in the mental health field, I've worked with individuals of all ages and their families. So whether it's the end of a marriage or a job; PTSD; depression or the roller coaster of ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Behavioral Addictions and more, I'm here to help you step through the door of your "old" normal and into improved personal power and an increased sense of personal success that will become your "new" normal with a happier, healthier life.
Personal power is necessary when bad things happen to good people. With over 18 years of experience in the mental health field, I've worked with individuals of all ages and their families. So whether it's the end of a marriage or a job; PTSD; depression or the roller coaster of ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Behavioral Addictions and more, I'm here to help you step through the door of your "old" normal and into improved personal power and an increased sense of personal success that will become your "new" normal with a happier, healthier life.
(336) 814-9297 View (336) 814-9297
Photo of Leticia Grove, Counselor in Lincolnton, NC
Leticia Grove
Counselor, MA, LMHC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I approach mental health and personality from a holistic perspective. I consider multiple variables when working with clients including mental health, medical history, nutrition, exercise and environment. I would describe my theoretical orientation as eclectic. Eclecticism incorporates therapies from a number of different sources ranging from cognitive-behavioral approaches to alternative treatments such as mindfulness training and meditation. The therapeutic techniques that I use vary from client to client because what works for one person may not work for another. Moreover, I often use more than one therapeutic method depending on my clients' needs.
I approach mental health and personality from a holistic perspective. I consider multiple variables when working with clients including mental health, medical history, nutrition, exercise and environment. I would describe my theoretical orientation as eclectic. Eclecticism incorporates therapies from a number of different sources ranging from cognitive-behavioral approaches to alternative treatments such as mindfulness training and meditation. The therapeutic techniques that I use vary from client to client because what works for one person may not work for another. Moreover, I often use more than one therapeutic method depending on my clients' needs.
(828) 662-9323 View (828) 662-9323
Photo of Luz Velez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lincolnton, NC
Luz Velez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212  (Online Only)
Welcome, looking for someone that is warm, direct and knowledgeable. You found it! I obtained my MSW in 2013, from Rhode Island College. Following my graduation, I worked at a Psychiatric Residential Facility where I learned the benefits of ACT, CBT, TF-CBT and DBT modalities. In 2015, I moved to Mecklenburg County Public Health, where I worked alongside CMPD providing therapeutic support to families that experienced acute and prolonged trauma exposure. During my tenure in Public Health Department, I honed my skills in somatic approach, such as EMDR and Brainspotting, to help the individual improve their mental health.
Welcome, looking for someone that is warm, direct and knowledgeable. You found it! I obtained my MSW in 2013, from Rhode Island College. Following my graduation, I worked at a Psychiatric Residential Facility where I learned the benefits of ACT, CBT, TF-CBT and DBT modalities. In 2015, I moved to Mecklenburg County Public Health, where I worked alongside CMPD providing therapeutic support to families that experienced acute and prolonged trauma exposure. During my tenure in Public Health Department, I honed my skills in somatic approach, such as EMDR and Brainspotting, to help the individual improve their mental health.
(704) 286-8113 View (704) 286-8113
Photo of Holly Young, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Lincolnton, NC
Holly Young
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Holly Young, a licensed clinical mental health counselor with over six years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, grief & loss, and assertiveness training for teens and adults. I use a mix of modalities such as Dialectical (DBT), Eclectic, Trauma Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Supportive therapy. I believe that kindness and authenticity are a great quality to have.
Hello! My name is Holly Young, a licensed clinical mental health counselor with over six years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, grief & loss, and assertiveness training for teens and adults. I use a mix of modalities such as Dialectical (DBT), Eclectic, Trauma Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Supportive therapy. I believe that kindness and authenticity are a great quality to have.
(919) 328-3873 View (919) 328-3873
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.