Photo of Myriam Rabaste, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mint Hill, 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 Maria W Stine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mint Hill, NC
Maria W Stine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Waitlist for new clients
Making mental health care available where and how people need it - be it farm, private office, telehealth(confidential video chat), The Compassion Project provides psychotherapy for adults and children looking for help and hope. It is our mission to work with others as they travel their own path at their own pace - to healing, growth and restoration. Trauma-informed approaches are a primary focus. Brainspotting, TFCBT (trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy), IFS (internal family systems) therapy are some of the available modalities.
Making mental health care available where and how people need it - be it farm, private office, telehealth(confidential video chat), The Compassion Project provides psychotherapy for adults and children looking for help and hope. It is our mission to work with others as they travel their own path at their own pace - to healing, growth and restoration. Trauma-informed approaches are a primary focus. Brainspotting, TFCBT (trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy), IFS (internal family systems) therapy are some of the available modalities.
(704) 457-1051 View (704) 457-1051
Photo of Sandra Schoonover, PhD, Psychologist in Mint Hill, NC
Sandra Schoonover, PhD
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy offers a place and relationship in which to be heard, to be understood and to experience growth and change. My practice offers opportunities to a wide variety of people for insight and understanding that makes a difference in how life is lived. Therapy begins with the development of a meaningful relationship grounded in compassion, patience and appreciation for your needs and personal experiences.I work with individuals seeking general insight and self-discovery to those suffering from chronic or debilitating issues. My practice involves work with individuals, couples and families.
Therapy offers a place and relationship in which to be heard, to be understood and to experience growth and change. My practice offers opportunities to a wide variety of people for insight and understanding that makes a difference in how life is lived. Therapy begins with the development of a meaningful relationship grounded in compassion, patience and appreciation for your needs and personal experiences.I work with individuals seeking general insight and self-discovery to those suffering from chronic or debilitating issues. My practice involves work with individuals, couples and families.
(704) 766-8675 View (704) 766-8675

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tara Jubanowsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mint Hill, NC
Tara Jubanowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270  (Online Only)
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
(984) 265-8755 View (984) 265-8755
Photo of Chronic Hope Counseling PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Mint Hill, NC
Chronic Hope Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
If you or someone you love struggles with chronic pain or illness please reach out to us and begin the steps to taking control of your pain and mental health.
We have interns for sliding scale sessions, play therapy for children and everything in-between! If you are feeling overwhelmed. anxious, isolated, lonely or simply want to learn how to live your best life with your pain Chronic Hope is the place to be. We offer counseling services for those with chronic pain and illness. Your pain/illness effects everything you do, so it needs to be taken into every consideration as you heal. We can help you learn to live beyond you pain by getting you in your best place mentally. All of our clinicians and interns have personal experience with pain creating a unique, empathetic experience.
If you or someone you love struggles with chronic pain or illness please reach out to us and begin the steps to taking control of your pain and mental health.
We have interns for sliding scale sessions, play therapy for children and everything in-between! If you are feeling overwhelmed. anxious, isolated, lonely or simply want to learn how to live your best life with your pain Chronic Hope is the place to be. We offer counseling services for those with chronic pain and illness. Your pain/illness effects everything you do, so it needs to be taken into every consideration as you heal. We can help you learn to live beyond you pain by getting you in your best place mentally. All of our clinicians and interns have personal experience with pain creating a unique, empathetic experience.
(919) 626-3303 View (919) 626-3303
Photo of Carole F Bombardier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mint Hill, NC
Carole F Bombardier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CHT, HCHI
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223
I specialize in women's issues including pregnancy, infertility, prenatal and postpartum depression/anxiety, weight issues, chronic pain from Fibromyalgia, PMS, and other chronic diseases.
It is my passion to help people help themselves using a holistic approach to address the whole person. Sometimes we get so caught up in the details of life that we have difficulty seeing the big picture. Counseling can help you get more out of life, help you reach your goals and work through challenges and move forward to create and live the life you desire. Stress, anxiety, phobias, depression and life transitions are just some of the issues that I typically address within my practice.
I specialize in women's issues including pregnancy, infertility, prenatal and postpartum depression/anxiety, weight issues, chronic pain from Fibromyalgia, PMS, and other chronic diseases.
It is my passion to help people help themselves using a holistic approach to address the whole person. Sometimes we get so caught up in the details of life that we have difficulty seeing the big picture. Counseling can help you get more out of life, help you reach your goals and work through challenges and move forward to create and live the life you desire. Stress, anxiety, phobias, depression and life transitions are just some of the issues that I typically address within my practice.
(704) 266-6691 View (704) 266-6691
Photo of Grace Selvaggi, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mint Hill, NC
Grace Selvaggi
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
Grace has experience with victims of domestic violence, mental illness, homelessness, and substance abuse.
Grace Selvaggi is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist who has been practicing since 2020 in North Carolina. Grace is a Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) in North Carolina with more than five years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and childhood/adolescent behavioral issues. She graduated with a Master in Clinical Social Work (MSW) degree, an Integrated Behavioral Health (IBH) specialization, Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BSW) degree, and a psychology minor from the University of Kentucky.
Grace has experience with victims of domestic violence, mental illness, homelessness, and substance abuse.
Grace Selvaggi is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist who has been practicing since 2020 in North Carolina. Grace is a Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) in North Carolina with more than five years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and childhood/adolescent behavioral issues. She graduated with a Master in Clinical Social Work (MSW) degree, an Integrated Behavioral Health (IBH) specialization, Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BSW) degree, and a psychology minor from the University of Kentucky.
(980) 372-4605 View (980) 372-4605
Photo of Tita Johnson, Counselor in Mint Hill, NC
Tita Johnson
Counselor, LCMHC, LPC/S, MAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
(843) 428-6596 View (843) 428-6596
Photo of Danielle Whittington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mint Hill, NC
Danielle Whittington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270  (Online Only)
My approach is based on a cognitive behavioral model and is affective in treating individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions and chronic pain.
No matter what you are going through I am here to listen, support you and help you figure it all out. I want to help you alleviate your symptoms as well as find the root of the problem for long term healing. Not only putting on a Band-Aid but healing the wound. I want the therapeutic process to feel helpful and worthwhile. I work with sincerity, compassion and non-judgement. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and trauma.
My approach is based on a cognitive behavioral model and is affective in treating individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions and chronic pain.
No matter what you are going through I am here to listen, support you and help you figure it all out. I want to help you alleviate your symptoms as well as find the root of the problem for long term healing. Not only putting on a Band-Aid but healing the wound. I want the therapeutic process to feel helpful and worthwhile. I work with sincerity, compassion and non-judgement. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and trauma.
(704) 666-9110 View (704) 666-9110
Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mint Hill, NC
Lisa Lavelle Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (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 Michelle Einson, Psychologist in Mint Hill, NC
Michelle Einson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28104
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 Palmetto Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mint Hill, NC
Palmetto Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201
*Depression *Anxiety *Panic Attacks *Grief & Loss *ADHD *Autism Spectrum Disorders *Anger Management *Self-Esteem *Bipolar Disorder *Addiction *Impulse-Control Disorders *Chronic Pain *Child / Adolescent Problems *Parent-Child Relational Problems *Couples / Marital Therapy *Family Conflict *Stress Management *Occupational Problems *Substance Abuse.
With several licensed counselors to choose from, Palmetto Counseling proudly serves the communities of Rock Hill, Fort Mill, and surrounding Charlotte areas. We provide treatment to children, adolescents, adults, seniors, couples, and families. For the convenience of our clients, Evening & Saturday Appointments are available. Call 803-329-9639 for more information.
*Depression *Anxiety *Panic Attacks *Grief & Loss *ADHD *Autism Spectrum Disorders *Anger Management *Self-Esteem *Bipolar Disorder *Addiction *Impulse-Control Disorders *Chronic Pain *Child / Adolescent Problems *Parent-Child Relational Problems *Couples / Marital Therapy *Family Conflict *Stress Management *Occupational Problems *Substance Abuse.
With several licensed counselors to choose from, Palmetto Counseling proudly serves the communities of Rock Hill, Fort Mill, and surrounding Charlotte areas. We provide treatment to children, adolescents, adults, seniors, couples, and families. For the convenience of our clients, Evening & Saturday Appointments are available. Call 803-329-9639 for more information.
(803) 666-8150 View (803) 666-8150
Photo of SHINE Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mint Hill, NC
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28213
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 Cody W Chase, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mint Hill, NC
Cody W Chase
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
I can help navigate a new diagnosis, chronic illness, or caregiving.
Life is messy and sometimes we need help making sense of the chaos. I provide a safe and confidential space to be heard, be real, and be understood. I am passionate about helping people navigate the various expected and unexpected happenings in their lives. Whether it is managing the new territory of parenthood, dealing with an unexpected diagnosis, or handling the stresses of everyday life, I strive to help people remain grounded and arm them with healthy coping strategies to get on their desired path.
I can help navigate a new diagnosis, chronic illness, or caregiving.
Life is messy and sometimes we need help making sense of the chaos. I provide a safe and confidential space to be heard, be real, and be understood. I am passionate about helping people navigate the various expected and unexpected happenings in their lives. Whether it is managing the new territory of parenthood, dealing with an unexpected diagnosis, or handling the stresses of everyday life, I strive to help people remain grounded and arm them with healthy coping strategies to get on their desired path.
(704) 327-0314 View (704) 327-0314
Photo of Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Mint Hill, NC
Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCMHC-S, LCAS, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
(980) 338-4035 View (980) 338-4035
Photo of Gene Haas, Psychological Associate in Mint Hill, NC
Gene Haas
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, NC 28075  (Online Only)
Clients with chronic illness, or pain, or PTSD work well with my approach to therapy including the use of EMDR.
I work best with an individual client, couple, or the family of a child or adolescent that recognizes that what they have been trying to do to deal with their life or behavioral issues is not working well, and they are now open to finding understanding, and trying new approaches to old, or recently acute problems. My experience has been that most couples really want to save their marriage or other family relationships and will do the work necessary to build a new and loving relationship.
Clients with chronic illness, or pain, or PTSD work well with my approach to therapy including the use of EMDR.
I work best with an individual client, couple, or the family of a child or adolescent that recognizes that what they have been trying to do to deal with their life or behavioral issues is not working well, and they are now open to finding understanding, and trying new approaches to old, or recently acute problems. My experience has been that most couples really want to save their marriage or other family relationships and will do the work necessary to build a new and loving relationship.
(704) 326-1197 View (704) 326-1197
Photo of Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Mint Hill, NC
Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CRC, CCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
We've worked with patients living with chronic pain, chronic diseases (Diabetes, Hypertension, HIV/AIDS, Lupus, Sickle Cell), perinatal mental health concerns, anxiety, depression and those needing career/vocational coaching.
We give so much of ourselves to our jobs, families, friends and more that we often lose ourselves and focus on the daily struggle of just surviving. Becoming overwhelmed or feeling anxious, depressed, scared or even angry, may stop you from reaching your full potential. We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. We have a passion for helping others to find their voice, passion, and to create a healthier reality than their present state. We provide Teletherapy & Coaching services. Therapy services are provided by a Four Therapists & Coaching services by Drs. Watkins, Elbert & Blumell.
We've worked with patients living with chronic pain, chronic diseases (Diabetes, Hypertension, HIV/AIDS, Lupus, Sickle Cell), perinatal mental health concerns, anxiety, depression and those needing career/vocational coaching.
We give so much of ourselves to our jobs, families, friends and more that we often lose ourselves and focus on the daily struggle of just surviving. Becoming overwhelmed or feeling anxious, depressed, scared or even angry, may stop you from reaching your full potential. We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. We have a passion for helping others to find their voice, passion, and to create a healthier reality than their present state. We provide Teletherapy & Coaching services. Therapy services are provided by a Four Therapists & Coaching services by Drs. Watkins, Elbert & Blumell.
(704) 512-0618 View (704) 512-0618
Photo of Tara Jubanowsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mint Hill, NC
Tara Jubanowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
I received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Social Psychology from Lehigh University in 2003 and graduated from Columbia University in 2007 with a Master of Science in Social Work. I specialize in the areas of health/illness, medical education, medical/social trauma, chronic pain/disability, grief/bereavement, and loss.
I received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Social Psychology from Lehigh University in 2003 and graduated from Columbia University in 2007 with a Master of Science in Social Work. I specialize in the areas of health/illness, medical education, medical/social trauma, chronic pain/disability, grief/bereavement, and loss.
(704) 486-5283 View (704) 486-5283
Photo of The International Center for Wellness PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mint Hill, NC
The International Center for Wellness PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, NC 28075  (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) 699-9375 View (704) 699-9375
Photo of Jenna Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mint Hill, NC
Jenna Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Throughout our life's journey, we encounter a multitude of experiences. Some may contain extreme joy and happiness, while others can manifest feelings of doubt, sadness, anxiety or questioning if change or healing is possible in our current circumstances. During these difficult seasons we need the courage and perspective to explore challenging questions and the willingness to listen to the answers that emerge. My goal is to empower my clients and develop a rapport which promotes the confidence, skills and change agents needed to progress towards a direction that nourishes emotional and physical well-being.
Throughout our life's journey, we encounter a multitude of experiences. Some may contain extreme joy and happiness, while others can manifest feelings of doubt, sadness, anxiety or questioning if change or healing is possible in our current circumstances. During these difficult seasons we need the courage and perspective to explore challenging questions and the willingness to listen to the answers that emerge. My goal is to empower my clients and develop a rapport which promotes the confidence, skills and change agents needed to progress towards a direction that nourishes emotional and physical well-being.
(704) 729-7588 View (704) 729-7588

See more therapy options for Mint 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.