Therapists in Morehead City, NC

Photo of Anita C Pardo, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Morehead City, NC
Anita C Pardo
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Morehead City, NC 28557  (Online Only)
What would be my ideal client? An adult with Trauma, Codependency, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Depression, Grief or Chronic Pain that needs virtual sessions. If a person has limited time or transportation, Telemedicine is available to meet their needs but still in a way that is personal. Individualized care in a Judgement Free Zone is offered to any person with any background. All stories are welcomed.
What would be my ideal client? An adult with Trauma, Codependency, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Depression, Grief or Chronic Pain that needs virtual sessions. If a person has limited time or transportation, Telemedicine is available to meet their needs but still in a way that is personal. Individualized care in a Judgement Free Zone is offered to any person with any background. All stories are welcomed.
(252) 675-4923 View (252) 675-4923
Photo of Jennifer Tremblay Pettee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morehead City, NC
Jennifer Tremblay Pettee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Morehead City, NC 28557  (Online Only)
Together, we can work to reduce emotional pain and stress and instead develop an overall sense of wellness.
Overwhelmed? We can be overwhelmed by many things; work/family demands, grief, romantic relationships, health, traumatic events, and so on. Sometimes, even when we feel like we SHOULD be happy, we are not. At Bonne Journée PLLC, I take a "Big Picture" approach to help empower clients to sort out what is meaningful and helpful in their lives.
Together, we can work to reduce emotional pain and stress and instead develop an overall sense of wellness.
Overwhelmed? We can be overwhelmed by many things; work/family demands, grief, romantic relationships, health, traumatic events, and so on. Sometimes, even when we feel like we SHOULD be happy, we are not. At Bonne Journée PLLC, I take a "Big Picture" approach to help empower clients to sort out what is meaningful and helpful in their lives.
(252) 542-2160 View (252) 542-2160

More Therapists Nearby

Mary Folger Summerlin
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Newport, NC 28570
I enjoy working with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and with a wide array of presenting difficulties. I am person-centered and assist individuals with working towards their own personal goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups to assist with the achievement of these goals. While I feel comfortable addressing any issue, I am always willing to refer to another provider if needed.
I enjoy working with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and with a wide array of presenting difficulties. I am person-centered and assist individuals with working towards their own personal goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups to assist with the achievement of these goals. While I feel comfortable addressing any issue, I am always willing to refer to another provider if needed.
(252) 297-6201 View (252) 297-6201

Online Therapists

Photo of Jen Johnson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Morehead City, NC
Jen Johnson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, MFA, CRC, BCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include stress, grief, loss, transitions, anxiety, chronic illness, perfectionism, self-criticism, creativity, gifted adults, and medical trauma.
Are stress and ruminating thoughts about the past or future keeping you up at night? Do you wake up feeling anxious and worried? Are you struggling with stress related illness, such as autoimmune illness or high blood pressure? Have you lost your sense of aliveness, meaning, and purpose? I offer life coaching and counseling services to adults. I teach people how to develop inner peace, calm, and resilience so that you cope with the difficult times more skillfully and savor life's joy, beauty, and awe more fully.
My areas of specialty include stress, grief, loss, transitions, anxiety, chronic illness, perfectionism, self-criticism, creativity, gifted adults, and medical trauma.
Are stress and ruminating thoughts about the past or future keeping you up at night? Do you wake up feeling anxious and worried? Are you struggling with stress related illness, such as autoimmune illness or high blood pressure? Have you lost your sense of aliveness, meaning, and purpose? I offer life coaching and counseling services to adults. I teach people how to develop inner peace, calm, and resilience so that you cope with the difficult times more skillfully and savor life's joy, beauty, and awe more fully.
(910) 653-1690 View (910) 653-1690
Photo of Char Boyette, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Morehead City, NC
Char Boyette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, EMDRIA, CCS, MDiv, JD
Verified Verified
Winterville, NC 28590
I am a person on the journey of wellness myself so I can empathize with the pain of feeling isolated and misunderstood, stuck in old patterns and unable to break unhelpful cycles of abuse, trauma, poverty, addictions, and multiple mental health challenges.
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
I am a person on the journey of wellness myself so I can empathize with the pain of feeling isolated and misunderstood, stuck in old patterns and unable to break unhelpful cycles of abuse, trauma, poverty, addictions, and multiple mental health challenges.
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
(910) 634-6171 View (910) 634-6171
Photo of Palms Wellness Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morehead City, NC
Palms Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28546
Have you been suffering from Grief & Loss, terminally ill, or just feeling alone and isolated, unheard? Need someone that will truly listen and talk "with you"? Taking things at your pace, understanding your needs, we provide "care" because we care. We can help you through what may be the hardest challenges you have faced. Have you lost yourself or a loved one to Opioid Addiction and need help with medication management and therapy? We have over 16 years helping people build new lives which allows them to move forward by healing forward. We also provide "Pet/Fur Kids" Loss therapy as we at PWC "all" relate first hand to this pain.
Have you been suffering from Grief & Loss, terminally ill, or just feeling alone and isolated, unheard? Need someone that will truly listen and talk "with you"? Taking things at your pace, understanding your needs, we provide "care" because we care. We can help you through what may be the hardest challenges you have faced. Have you lost yourself or a loved one to Opioid Addiction and need help with medication management and therapy? We have over 16 years helping people build new lives which allows them to move forward by healing forward. We also provide "Pet/Fur Kids" Loss therapy as we at PWC "all" relate first hand to this pain.
(910) 758-2346 View (910) 758-2346
Photo of Lauren Morales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morehead City, NC
Lauren Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
I offer individual therapy to address various mental health concerns including survivorship, grief, adjustment to change, chronic illness, PTSD, & anxiety/depression.
Have you found yourself lying in bed awake at 2am your thoughts spinning? Maybe you've just gotten news from your doctor and you're feel flooded with overwhelm or fear. If you've found yourself in these situations, you likely find it difficult to relate to others who just don't "get it", you avoid situations that bring a sense of dread, you battle with feelings of hopeless/helplessness, and struggle to feel safe in your own body. I know how difficult it can be to reach out for help when the world around you and your mind are telling you it doesn't feel safe.
I offer individual therapy to address various mental health concerns including survivorship, grief, adjustment to change, chronic illness, PTSD, & anxiety/depression.
Have you found yourself lying in bed awake at 2am your thoughts spinning? Maybe you've just gotten news from your doctor and you're feel flooded with overwhelm or fear. If you've found yourself in these situations, you likely find it difficult to relate to others who just don't "get it", you avoid situations that bring a sense of dread, you battle with feelings of hopeless/helplessness, and struggle to feel safe in your own body. I know how difficult it can be to reach out for help when the world around you and your mind are telling you it doesn't feel safe.
(910) 519-8262 View (910) 519-8262
Photo of Catherine C Butler in Morehead City, NC
Catherine C Butler
MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, illness, relationship struggles, trauma or interested in self exploration, therapy can be an effective step towards finding healing and growth. I offer a safe, supportive and respectful environment. My goal is to help you overcome obstacles and self-destructive patterns so that you can live a more authentic and joyful life. I come from a humanistic approach, combining traditional psychology with mindfulness-based practices. I bring compassion, curiosity and humor to my therapy practice. Together we will uncover the answers within yourself to help you find relief from emotional pain.
Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, illness, relationship struggles, trauma or interested in self exploration, therapy can be an effective step towards finding healing and growth. I offer a safe, supportive and respectful environment. My goal is to help you overcome obstacles and self-destructive patterns so that you can live a more authentic and joyful life. I come from a humanistic approach, combining traditional psychology with mindfulness-based practices. I bring compassion, curiosity and humor to my therapy practice. Together we will uncover the answers within yourself to help you find relief from emotional pain.
(910) 338-3703 View (910) 338-3703
Photo of Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC , Counselor in Morehead City, NC
Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LCMHCS , LCAS, CCS, LPC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
(252) 336-9687 View (252) 336-9687
Photo of Shanna W Dickens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morehead City, NC
Shanna W Dickens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28409  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also passionate about helping to manage chronic illness, breaking codependence, recovering from narcissistic abuse and affirming neurodivergence.
As humans, we are always gravitating towards healing, trying to right ourselves and to shift from surviving back into living. But sometimes, we get stuck with uncomfortable emotions that we aren't exactly sure what to do with. In therapy, I offer a safe place to unpack all of that uncomfortable stuff and decide what is worth keeping and what is just too heavy to keep lugging around day after day. If you are ready to unpack, I am here for it. If you want to learn how to be assertive, how to set boundaries effectively and how to show up for yourself even when others can't or don't, I am absolutely on board.
I am also passionate about helping to manage chronic illness, breaking codependence, recovering from narcissistic abuse and affirming neurodivergence.
As humans, we are always gravitating towards healing, trying to right ourselves and to shift from surviving back into living. But sometimes, we get stuck with uncomfortable emotions that we aren't exactly sure what to do with. In therapy, I offer a safe place to unpack all of that uncomfortable stuff and decide what is worth keeping and what is just too heavy to keep lugging around day after day. If you are ready to unpack, I am here for it. If you want to learn how to be assertive, how to set boundaries effectively and how to show up for yourself even when others can't or don't, I am absolutely on board.
(910) 335-9101 View (910) 335-9101
Photo of Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling in Morehead City, NC
Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling
MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, NC 27889  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be…a bit of a rollercoaster at times and can often feel unmanageable. If you find yourself becoming bogged down by life’s twists and turns, I’m here to help! My name is Courtney Howard and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. My mission is to provide a safe space for you to explore, repair, and grow. Taking the steps to begin a counseling journey isn’t easy and I’m proud of you for searching for a therapist to fit your needs. Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, suffering with illness, grieving, or struggling with mood? Then I may be the perfect fit for you!
Life can be…a bit of a rollercoaster at times and can often feel unmanageable. If you find yourself becoming bogged down by life’s twists and turns, I’m here to help! My name is Courtney Howard and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. My mission is to provide a safe space for you to explore, repair, and grow. Taking the steps to begin a counseling journey isn’t easy and I’m proud of you for searching for a therapist to fit your needs. Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, suffering with illness, grieving, or struggling with mood? Then I may be the perfect fit for you!
(252) 486-5072 View (252) 486-5072
Photo of Patricia A Toth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morehead City, NC
Patricia A Toth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28560  (Online Only)
Rather than identifying and categorizing the presence or absence of symptoms of illness, my practice seeks to uncover the psychological health in my clients.
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
Rather than identifying and categorizing the presence or absence of symptoms of illness, my practice seeks to uncover the psychological health in my clients.
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
(252) 392-4371 View (252) 392-4371
Carol C Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Hi. My name is Carol Bennett, and I am a clinically licensed social worker in Wilmington, NC. I work with adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss issues, communication effectiveness, chronic pain and illnesses, and end of life decisions and questions. The goal is to work together to find acceptable solutions to whatever the distress is, so that you, as the client, find effective skills to cope with the presenting problem, and enable you to have a more positive outlook to life. Typical issues may include anxiety over current life dilemmas, depression and grief regarding losses and major life changes, etc.
Hi. My name is Carol Bennett, and I am a clinically licensed social worker in Wilmington, NC. I work with adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss issues, communication effectiveness, chronic pain and illnesses, and end of life decisions and questions. The goal is to work together to find acceptable solutions to whatever the distress is, so that you, as the client, find effective skills to cope with the presenting problem, and enable you to have a more positive outlook to life. Typical issues may include anxiety over current life dilemmas, depression and grief regarding losses and major life changes, etc.
(910) 708-9224 View (910) 708-9224
Photo of Rob Moser, Counselor in Morehead City, NC
Rob Moser
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
(910) 812-8310 View (910) 812-8310
Photo of Casey Berna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morehead City, NC
Casey Berna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Often our emotional and physical pain gets dismissed and we can go years suffering, normalizing our distress.
In my clinical practice, I utilize a strengths-based approach to support clients and integrate different therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy and mindfulness. I work with teens and adults who come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Anxiety, depression, grief, burn out, and relationship challenges all can have a significant impact on daily life. I offers tools to manage these feelings, while also providing a space to process trauma, set boundaries, and help clients feel validated and unstuck.
Often our emotional and physical pain gets dismissed and we can go years suffering, normalizing our distress.
In my clinical practice, I utilize a strengths-based approach to support clients and integrate different therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy and mindfulness. I work with teens and adults who come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Anxiety, depression, grief, burn out, and relationship challenges all can have a significant impact on daily life. I offers tools to manage these feelings, while also providing a space to process trauma, set boundaries, and help clients feel validated and unstuck.
(910) 537-2920 View (910) 537-2920
Photo of Leslie A Veach, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Morehead City, NC
Leslie A Veach
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHCS, CGP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858
Sometimes we feel alone, even in a crowd or with significant others. Pain, trauma, feeling different/misunderstood/unknown or even how we see ourselves can drive a wedge between us and the people and life experiences that matter most to us. If you are looking for someone who will join with you as you find your way through to a more meaningful way of living and toward more fulfilling relationships, then I welcome you to contact me for a free consultation.
Sometimes we feel alone, even in a crowd or with significant others. Pain, trauma, feeling different/misunderstood/unknown or even how we see ourselves can drive a wedge between us and the people and life experiences that matter most to us. If you are looking for someone who will join with you as you find your way through to a more meaningful way of living and toward more fulfilling relationships, then I welcome you to contact me for a free consultation.
(252) 489-4588 View (252) 489-4588
Photo of Olinda Davidson in Morehead City, NC
Olinda Davidson
LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
You may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious from trying to hold it all together for everyone and everything. You put on a “happy” face and push through the day only to wonder if you will ever feel better. Until now, you’ve been able to manage it on your own, but it’s starting to affect other areas of your life and you can’t pretend everything is ok anymore. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, a relationship or health concerns but wherever the pain is coming from you are tired of feeling alone and stuck. You want to make lasting changes, but deciding where to start feels impossible. I’m here and I get it.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious from trying to hold it all together for everyone and everything. You put on a “happy” face and push through the day only to wonder if you will ever feel better. Until now, you’ve been able to manage it on your own, but it’s starting to affect other areas of your life and you can’t pretend everything is ok anymore. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, a relationship or health concerns but wherever the pain is coming from you are tired of feeling alone and stuck. You want to make lasting changes, but deciding where to start feels impossible. I’m here and I get it.
(252) 582-6024 View (252) 582-6024
Photo of Anne Mauldin, Psychologist in Morehead City, NC
Anne Mauldin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
(252) 455-9998 View (252) 455-9998
Photo of Teresa Vaughan, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Morehead City, NC
Teresa Vaughan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
I am grounded in CBT, but also believe in the power of art and movement in the healing of emotional pain.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change.
I am grounded in CBT, but also believe in the power of art and movement in the healing of emotional pain.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change.
(252) 689-7203 View (252) 689-7203
Photo of Pamilla G Yount in Morehead City, NC
Pamilla G Yount
CMH, CHT, CHI
Verified Verified
Oak Island, NC 28465
Hypnosis works to stop smoking, weight loss, stress, pain management, restructuring and reinventing your life . It also works for creating a positive new way of life.
Hypnosis works to stop smoking, weight loss, stress, pain management, restructuring and reinventing your life . It also works for creating a positive new way of life.
(828) 962-4336 View (828) 962-4336

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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.