Photo of Sheila Mary McKeon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mars Hill, NC
Sheila Mary McKeon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mars Hill, NC 28754
I connect easily with clients to feel lighter and clearer in their minds, body, and Spirit. I work with people with stressful careers in medicine, law, finance, and small businesses. Knowing the necessity of keeping a clear head and calm body, yet have been struggling with heartbreak, anxiety, fears, loss and grief that has created overwhelming stress and expectations that limits functioning. It is a challenging balancing act with career, family, relationships, along with finding some quiet time to relax. I help you master these challenges with a very confidential, (no insurance or electronic records) safe, and caring environment.
I connect easily with clients to feel lighter and clearer in their minds, body, and Spirit. I work with people with stressful careers in medicine, law, finance, and small businesses. Knowing the necessity of keeping a clear head and calm body, yet have been struggling with heartbreak, anxiety, fears, loss and grief that has created overwhelming stress and expectations that limits functioning. It is a challenging balancing act with career, family, relationships, along with finding some quiet time to relax. I help you master these challenges with a very confidential, (no insurance or electronic records) safe, and caring environment.
(828) 536-4117 View (828) 536-4117
Photo of Paul M Feldman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mars Hill, NC
Paul M Feldman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Mars Hill, NC 28754
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to meet my clients in the moment they are in, and invite them into a deeply safe experience of expanded possibility and curiosity. Connected more deeply to themselves, crucial feelings, fundamental beliefs and significant memories can emerge and be held with respect and kindness. Important individual and relational needs and healing can then be discovered, recognized, and realized.
My goal is to meet my clients in the moment they are in, and invite them into a deeply safe experience of expanded possibility and curiosity. Connected more deeply to themselves, crucial feelings, fundamental beliefs and significant memories can emerge and be held with respect and kindness. Important individual and relational needs and healing can then be discovered, recognized, and realized.
(828) 585-6023 View (828) 585-6023

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Corey Costanzo, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Mars Hill, NC
Corey Costanzo
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCAS, LMBT, SEP
Verified Verified
Weaverville, NC 28787
Lets explore your life experience in a new and exciting way. I see suffering as an opportunity to break free from old patterns, habits, and ways of thinking that are not working for you anymore. It's a call from deep inside saying, "something needs to shift". This shift can come from exploring a relationship to a substance that you are using, and the pain, anxiety, depression, or a general sense of not loving your life that may come with it. Your unique journey is here right now, and experiencing it from a nonjudgmental perspective can be a vital ingredient to moving past whatever is holding you back from living your best life.
Lets explore your life experience in a new and exciting way. I see suffering as an opportunity to break free from old patterns, habits, and ways of thinking that are not working for you anymore. It's a call from deep inside saying, "something needs to shift". This shift can come from exploring a relationship to a substance that you are using, and the pain, anxiety, depression, or a general sense of not loving your life that may come with it. Your unique journey is here right now, and experiencing it from a nonjudgmental perspective can be a vital ingredient to moving past whatever is holding you back from living your best life.
(828) 970-1704 View (828) 970-1704
Photo of Deborah H. Weir, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Mars Hill, NC
Deborah H. Weir
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC, CHT
Verified Verified
Weaverville, NC 28787
My ideal client wants to change and evolve, and is willing to work at it through sessions and homework! I'm non-judgmental and a creative collaborator with my clients. I've done my job if clients feel heard, renewed, and empowered. I have a ton of experience and credentials: I use Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Brainspotting, and Brain-based Hypnotherapy. I work in trauma recovery, relationship issues, addiction, mood disorders, Jungian counseling, and spiritual counseling. I'm extremely adventurous, youthful, and have experienced life in many places and realms.
My ideal client wants to change and evolve, and is willing to work at it through sessions and homework! I'm non-judgmental and a creative collaborator with my clients. I've done my job if clients feel heard, renewed, and empowered. I have a ton of experience and credentials: I use Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Brainspotting, and Brain-based Hypnotherapy. I work in trauma recovery, relationship issues, addiction, mood disorders, Jungian counseling, and spiritual counseling. I'm extremely adventurous, youthful, and have experienced life in many places and realms.
(828) 408-0324 View (828) 408-0324
Photo of Pripo Teplitsky, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Mars Hill, NC
Pripo Teplitsky
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Weaverville, NC 28787
Are you overwhelmed or unsatisfied with your life? Do you want change but are having difficulties taking the necessary steps for making it happen? Are you longing for connection and love, and less conflict with those you love? I specialize in working with individuals and couples dealing with relationship issues. I also help adults who are feeling unhappy in other parts of their lives. As your therapist I am here to take your thoughts and feelings seriously and help you make sense of your life in order to begin the process of change.
Are you overwhelmed or unsatisfied with your life? Do you want change but are having difficulties taking the necessary steps for making it happen? Are you longing for connection and love, and less conflict with those you love? I specialize in working with individuals and couples dealing with relationship issues. I also help adults who are feeling unhappy in other parts of their lives. As your therapist I am here to take your thoughts and feelings seriously and help you make sense of your life in order to begin the process of change.
(828) 712-8398 View (828) 712-8398
Photo of Kambra Meyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mars Hill, NC
Kambra Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weaverville, NC 28787
Even the most self-aware humans can experience periods of confusion, stuckness, and destabilization, and oftentimes suffering has unconscious roots. I've dedicated my training and education as a helping professional to learn how to unlock messages from the unconscious to promote healing and well-being. I also strive to arm my clients with concrete tools to use independently, long after our work together is completed. I have many years of experience helping people heal, blending a variety of nontraditional and expressive therapeutic approaches with evidence-based interventions to meet the individual needs of the people I serve.
Even the most self-aware humans can experience periods of confusion, stuckness, and destabilization, and oftentimes suffering has unconscious roots. I've dedicated my training and education as a helping professional to learn how to unlock messages from the unconscious to promote healing and well-being. I also strive to arm my clients with concrete tools to use independently, long after our work together is completed. I have many years of experience helping people heal, blending a variety of nontraditional and expressive therapeutic approaches with evidence-based interventions to meet the individual needs of the people I serve.
(828) 333-5410 View (828) 333-5410

Online Therapists

Photo of Kristin Mignogna, Counselor in Mars Hill, NC
Kristin Mignogna
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I help clients work through problems related to relational issues, life transitions, chronic pain, PTSD/trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, and borderline traits.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counseling Associate who strives to create a space of trust and safety in which clients can heal, progress, and develop self-compassion. I have experience helping clients with a broad range of presenting concerns, with an educational focus on trauma. I cater my therapeutic techniques to each individual client's needs, drawing most heavily from Person-Centered (approaching clients as equal collaborators, with empathy and non-judgement), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (focusing on thought patterns), and Gestalt Therapy (focusing on emotional and somatic experiences).
I help clients work through problems related to relational issues, life transitions, chronic pain, PTSD/trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, and borderline traits.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counseling Associate who strives to create a space of trust and safety in which clients can heal, progress, and develop self-compassion. I have experience helping clients with a broad range of presenting concerns, with an educational focus on trauma. I cater my therapeutic techniques to each individual client's needs, drawing most heavily from Person-Centered (approaching clients as equal collaborators, with empathy and non-judgement), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (focusing on thought patterns), and Gestalt Therapy (focusing on emotional and somatic experiences).
(828) 457-7143 View (828) 457-7143
Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mars Hill, 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 Kristin Kirk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mars Hill, NC
Kristin Kirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
(704) 237-0421 View (704) 237-0421
Photo of Karen R Liddell, Pastoral Counselor in Mars Hill, 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 Shannon South, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mars Hill, NC
Shannon South
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, ThD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
These heal depression and anxiety, pain and grief, increase immunity, empower you and build confidence, increase a feeling of wholeness and connection to others and set you free from the past.
I am an integrative therapist focused on healing the split associated with trauma. Trauma can disconnect you from your authenticity and power, creating a misalignment in your mind-body and spirit. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the Inner Counselor are two highly effective approaches used for healing. I see clients with panic disorder and depression, sexual abuse, abusive relationships, codependency and self-esteem issues and more. Bringing health and balance back around areas that have become compulsions (eating, sex, alcohol, relationships, etc.) is another important part of this personal healing journey.
These heal depression and anxiety, pain and grief, increase immunity, empower you and build confidence, increase a feeling of wholeness and connection to others and set you free from the past.
I am an integrative therapist focused on healing the split associated with trauma. Trauma can disconnect you from your authenticity and power, creating a misalignment in your mind-body and spirit. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the Inner Counselor are two highly effective approaches used for healing. I see clients with panic disorder and depression, sexual abuse, abusive relationships, codependency and self-esteem issues and more. Bringing health and balance back around areas that have become compulsions (eating, sex, alcohol, relationships, etc.) is another important part of this personal healing journey.
(828) 351-9963 View (828) 351-9963
Photo of Lottie Cooper, LPC Intern in Mars Hill, NC
Lottie Cooper
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
Are you feeling stuck and want a breakthrough? I can facilitate releasing your physical, emotional, spiritual pain that is stored in the body. Are you ready to commit to yourself ? I am committed to supporting you in creating a joyful & fulfilling life. I use many modalities to individualize sessions to meet your needs to heal your pain mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Learn sensitive ways of thinking and communicating to support your relationships, create new perspectives, inner wisdom, and self-love, for a more fulfilling life. Learn skills to easily release stress, and explorations to track your progress.
Are you feeling stuck and want a breakthrough? I can facilitate releasing your physical, emotional, spiritual pain that is stored in the body. Are you ready to commit to yourself ? I am committed to supporting you in creating a joyful & fulfilling life. I use many modalities to individualize sessions to meet your needs to heal your pain mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Learn sensitive ways of thinking and communicating to support your relationships, create new perspectives, inner wisdom, and self-love, for a more fulfilling life. Learn skills to easily release stress, and explorations to track your progress.
(828) 944-4105 View (828) 944-4105
Photo of Starr Renee Roberts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mars Hill, 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 Jared Hinton, Counselor in Mars Hill, NC
Jared Hinton
Counselor, MAT, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I specialize in helping people recover from relational trauma and experience issues related to co-dependency, grief, adverse childhood experiences and growing up around alcoholism, addiction or mental illness.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice in Asheville, North Carolina. A history teacher turned therapist, my theoretical influences stem from Contemplative and Buddhist Psychology, a deep interest and regard for Native American and indigenous cultures, village-mindedness, Gestalt Therapy, as well as my roles as a husband, father, and friend.
I specialize in helping people recover from relational trauma and experience issues related to co-dependency, grief, adverse childhood experiences and growing up around alcoholism, addiction or mental illness.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice in Asheville, North Carolina. A history teacher turned therapist, my theoretical influences stem from Contemplative and Buddhist Psychology, a deep interest and regard for Native American and indigenous cultures, village-mindedness, Gestalt Therapy, as well as my roles as a husband, father, and friend.
(828) 575-3066 View (828) 575-3066
Photo of Grace Parsley, Counselor in Mars Hill, 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 Lucyna Sonek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mars Hill, 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 Jeff H Thompson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Mars Hill, NC
Jeff H Thompson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28791  (Online Only)
We all struggle with some degree of anxiety, trauma, some kinds of interpersonal challenges. It really helps to have someone to help us navigate these struggles and build skills. As a therapist, I offer lots of ideas and practices, and the folks who get the most out of our work are willing to try things out on their own. I offer these approaches with kindness, authenticity, and a sense of humor. There’s no reason therapy can’t be fun!
We all struggle with some degree of anxiety, trauma, some kinds of interpersonal challenges. It really helps to have someone to help us navigate these struggles and build skills. As a therapist, I offer lots of ideas and practices, and the folks who get the most out of our work are willing to try things out on their own. I offer these approaches with kindness, authenticity, and a sense of humor. There’s no reason therapy can’t be fun!
(828) 944-8113 View (828) 944-8113
Photo of Brian Dugdale, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Mars Hill, NC
Brian Dugdale
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28739
I provide relational and person-centered therapy to individuals, couples, and families. For the last 14 years I have served a diverse population in treating mental health needs including, anxiety, addiction, relationship/marital trouble, and negative behavior/thinking patterns. People often come wanting a solution to these and many other problems. In my practice, I have found success in helping people look deeper than the surface or for an easy solution. I wish I could promise an easy road ahead. What I can promise is compassion, empathy, support, and guided help on this road to healing.
I provide relational and person-centered therapy to individuals, couples, and families. For the last 14 years I have served a diverse population in treating mental health needs including, anxiety, addiction, relationship/marital trouble, and negative behavior/thinking patterns. People often come wanting a solution to these and many other problems. In my practice, I have found success in helping people look deeper than the surface or for an easy solution. I wish I could promise an easy road ahead. What I can promise is compassion, empathy, support, and guided help on this road to healing.
(828) 348-6572 View (828) 348-6572
Photo of Susan Lourme, Psychotherapy & Spiritual Coaching, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mars Hill, NC
Susan Lourme, Psychotherapy & Spiritual Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
We humans are wired for contact and connection. Yet sometimes we don't know how to develop the needed connections; relationship building and managing one’s life effectively can thus be both terrifying and exhilarating . Lack of healthy support and resultant traumas leave us depressed, anxious, isolated, or insecure, leading to addictions, obsessions and compulsions, poor communication, relationship difficulties, or general dis-ease in one’s life. Yet healing is possible, and finding a therapist with whom you resonate is crucial.
We humans are wired for contact and connection. Yet sometimes we don't know how to develop the needed connections; relationship building and managing one’s life effectively can thus be both terrifying and exhilarating . Lack of healthy support and resultant traumas leave us depressed, anxious, isolated, or insecure, leading to addictions, obsessions and compulsions, poor communication, relationship difficulties, or general dis-ease in one’s life. Yet healing is possible, and finding a therapist with whom you resonate is crucial.
(510) 858-0676 View (510) 858-0676
Photo of Sarah P Kirkpatrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mars Hill, NC
Sarah P Kirkpatrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
I am an experienced therapist working with young people. My main goal is that the person I am working with feels respected and that we can work toward a trusting relationship. I enjoy working with young people who have chronic or life changing medical diagnoses, grief and loss, are seeking gender affirming care, or need some support around anxiety, depression, or general adjustment to a major life change. I also have experience working with neuro-diverse clients, in particular those who self recognize or are diagnosed later in life.
I am an experienced therapist working with young people. My main goal is that the person I am working with feels respected and that we can work toward a trusting relationship. I enjoy working with young people who have chronic or life changing medical diagnoses, grief and loss, are seeking gender affirming care, or need some support around anxiety, depression, or general adjustment to a major life change. I also have experience working with neuro-diverse clients, in particular those who self recognize or are diagnosed later in life.
(828) 705-3365 View (828) 705-3365

See more therapy options for Mars Hill

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.