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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in North Carolina below.

Online Therapists

Photo of Carol Greenberger, Counselor in Madison County, NC
Carol Greenberger
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
(828) 484-2226 View (828) 484-2226
Photo of Starr Renee Roberts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison County, NC
Starr Renee Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, M ED, LCMHC
Verified Verified
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 Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison County, 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 Vanessa Guerrero, LCMHC Associate in Madison County, NC
Vanessa Guerrero
LCMHC Associate, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
I work primarily with female adolescents and young adults with a history of chronic illness, trauma, perfectionism, depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders.
Currently Accepting Clients ( Telehealth Only)-My name is Vanessa Guerero and I am a clinical therapist with Winter to Spring Wellness. Prior to being in Asheville for almost a decade, I originally hail from Miami, Fl. I am a proud daughter of Cuban immigrants and a first-generation college student. As a teen I had my own battles with physical and mental wellness, difficulties with acculturation as well as struggled with cultural stigma in regard to mental health care. Through my own work, I have been able to find healing and am now honored to support others who struggle with their own mental wellness and similar issues.
I work primarily with female adolescents and young adults with a history of chronic illness, trauma, perfectionism, depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders.
Currently Accepting Clients ( Telehealth Only)-My name is Vanessa Guerero and I am a clinical therapist with Winter to Spring Wellness. Prior to being in Asheville for almost a decade, I originally hail from Miami, Fl. I am a proud daughter of Cuban immigrants and a first-generation college student. As a teen I had my own battles with physical and mental wellness, difficulties with acculturation as well as struggled with cultural stigma in regard to mental health care. Through my own work, I have been able to find healing and am now honored to support others who struggle with their own mental wellness and similar issues.
(828) 382-8550 View (828) 382-8550
Photo of Guy Morganstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison County, NC
Guy Morganstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I also enjoy working with people dealing with chronic pain and illness, and those with LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
I also enjoy working with people dealing with chronic pain and illness, and those with LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
(828) 337-7549 View (828) 337-7549
Photo of Tim Bandell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Madison County, 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 Lucyna Sonek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison County, 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 John Magee, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Madison County, NC
John Magee
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I believe that most people have the answers within themselves to work through their own problems - my role is to guide you. I have experience helping people who are struggling with anxiety and depression, or who are numbing out through substance use. My clients are often working through life transitions and other challenging situations, such as relationship issues, grief, or chronic pain. Perhaps you have not been handling your emotions very well. You may even feel hopeless, or unsure how to articulate what you are feeling. Therapy is a collaborative journey to a more healthy state of mind.
I believe that most people have the answers within themselves to work through their own problems - my role is to guide you. I have experience helping people who are struggling with anxiety and depression, or who are numbing out through substance use. My clients are often working through life transitions and other challenging situations, such as relationship issues, grief, or chronic pain. Perhaps you have not been handling your emotions very well. You may even feel hopeless, or unsure how to articulate what you are feeling. Therapy is a collaborative journey to a more healthy state of mind.
(828) 547-4272 View (828) 547-4272
Photo of Grace Parsley, Counselor in Madison County, NC
Grace Parsley
Counselor, MS, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I’ve always found that authenticity is the only path to true connection. For those wanting support in transition(s), processing loss or trauma, living with chronic illness/disability, or simply unable to find your way forward; You deserve a counselor who will see you as a person first, not defined by your struggles but someone deserving of validation, support, and care. I pay close attention to the systems in which you are surrounded, the relationships that factor in your wellness, how the past informs the present, and the strengths you have within yourself to make a meaningful life.
I’ve always found that authenticity is the only path to true connection. For those wanting support in transition(s), processing loss or trauma, living with chronic illness/disability, or simply unable to find your way forward; You deserve a counselor who will see you as a person first, not defined by your struggles but someone deserving of validation, support, and care. I pay close attention to the systems in which you are surrounded, the relationships that factor in your wellness, how the past informs the present, and the strengths you have within yourself to make a meaningful life.
(828) 547-9064 View (828) 547-9064
Photo of Jennifer Beeghly, Psychologist in Madison County, 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 Savana Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Madison County, 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 Karen R Liddell, Pastoral Counselor in Madison County, NC
Karen R Liddell
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LCPC, Rev
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117  (Online Only)
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
(980) 372-8371 View (980) 372-8371
Photo of Will Hamilton, Psychologist in Madison County, 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 Audrey Amir, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Madison County, NC
Audrey Amir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fletcher, NC 28732
Other areas of focus include chronic illness, medical trauma, and managing grief and isolation.
Being a person can be hard. Living a life that best suits you as an individual is a work in progress. Along the way, there are undoubtedly challenges. Sometimes, our experiences leave us confused, overwhelmed, and in need of some support. As a therapist, my role is to help understand where you’ve been, where you’d like to go, and help you get there. It’s possible to move from getting by to feeling you have agency over your own life and choices. I specialize in working with challenging life events such as trauma, major life changes, relationship distress, and chronic illnesses. I also work with C-PTSD and Narcissistic Abuse recovery.
Other areas of focus include chronic illness, medical trauma, and managing grief and isolation.
Being a person can be hard. Living a life that best suits you as an individual is a work in progress. Along the way, there are undoubtedly challenges. Sometimes, our experiences leave us confused, overwhelmed, and in need of some support. As a therapist, my role is to help understand where you’ve been, where you’d like to go, and help you get there. It’s possible to move from getting by to feeling you have agency over your own life and choices. I specialize in working with challenging life events such as trauma, major life changes, relationship distress, and chronic illnesses. I also work with C-PTSD and Narcissistic Abuse recovery.
(828) 373-8290 View (828) 373-8290
Photo of Sandy Van Horn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Madison County, NC
Sandy Van Horn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT200, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, NC 28734
I believe growth occurs when we courageously stay along the edges of our comfort zone and gently press into that boundary widening it inch by inch. I believe healing occurs when we fully allow ourselves to feel our pain, to sit with it, to befriend it, and to find out that it has edges and boundaries ... a beginning and an end. If you've been struggling with life - that can be big and small things - we can work together to identify challenges and build your capacity to move in the direction of optimal healing and wellness.
I believe growth occurs when we courageously stay along the edges of our comfort zone and gently press into that boundary widening it inch by inch. I believe healing occurs when we fully allow ourselves to feel our pain, to sit with it, to befriend it, and to find out that it has edges and boundaries ... a beginning and an end. If you've been struggling with life - that can be big and small things - we can work together to identify challenges and build your capacity to move in the direction of optimal healing and wellness.
(828) 268-3363 View (828) 268-3363
Photo of Appalachian Counseling and Psychological Services in Madison County, NC
Appalachian Counseling and Psychological Services
MA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Appalachian Counseling and Psychological Services is a full service testing center providing psychological and neuropsychological testing. We provide diagnostic testing for assessments for mood disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, learning disabilities, giftedness, parental fitness evaluations, assessments for cognitive functioning, and post-concussion cognitive assessments.
Appalachian Counseling and Psychological Services is a full service testing center providing psychological and neuropsychological testing. We provide diagnostic testing for assessments for mood disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, learning disabilities, giftedness, parental fitness evaluations, assessments for cognitive functioning, and post-concussion cognitive assessments.
(828) 372-0432 View (828) 372-0432
Photo of Katherine Therrell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison County, NC
Katherine Therrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arden, NC 28704
My clients are adults, adolescents, and children who need help coping with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, abuse, educational/employment situations, family dynamics, or other problems impacting their mental health. Though I practice Cognative Behavioral Therapy, I employ a variety of methods including "talk therapy", EMDR, sand therapy, and play therapy, depending upon individual need. I strive to provide unconditional acceptance and support to my clients as they work to achieve their counseling goals. I accept Medicaid and most private insurance.
My clients are adults, adolescents, and children who need help coping with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, abuse, educational/employment situations, family dynamics, or other problems impacting their mental health. Though I practice Cognative Behavioral Therapy, I employ a variety of methods including "talk therapy", EMDR, sand therapy, and play therapy, depending upon individual need. I strive to provide unconditional acceptance and support to my clients as they work to achieve their counseling goals. I accept Medicaid and most private insurance.
(828) 565-1925 View (828) 565-1925
Photo of Melissa Kay Ciocian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Madison County, NC
Melissa Kay Ciocian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arden, NC 28704
Adolescence, young adulthood, middle age, all stages of life present unique challenges that are sometimes best navigated with support. Just the right help, in an empathetic therapy setting, often makes all the difference. Whether you are a parent, a teen, or a young adult experiencing challenging symptoms related to your mental health, we will work together to find your truth, bring to light goals, focus on strengths, and instill a sense of resiliency and self-worth that are critical to one's ability to evolve and thrive.
Adolescence, young adulthood, middle age, all stages of life present unique challenges that are sometimes best navigated with support. Just the right help, in an empathetic therapy setting, often makes all the difference. Whether you are a parent, a teen, or a young adult experiencing challenging symptoms related to your mental health, we will work together to find your truth, bring to light goals, focus on strengths, and instill a sense of resiliency and self-worth that are critical to one's ability to evolve and thrive.
(828) 818-8897 View (828) 818-8897
Photo of Forsyth Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison County, NC
Forsyth Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
(828) 367-1010 View (828) 367-1010
Photo of Marsha Virginia Hammond, Psychologist in Madison County, 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

See more therapy options for Madison County


Chronic Pain Therapists

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.