Therapists in Morganton, NC
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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in North Carolina below.Online Therapists
Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CRC, CCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262 (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.
Deborah Whitley Van Wieren
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC , LCAS
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Waitlist for new clients
Life can present challenges, some we live with every day, and others seem to come out of nowhere. Maybe life doesn't follow along a path we've spent years creating and working toward. The business of living can begin to feel like a grind, and simple tasks may create exhaustion, fear, and uncertainty. Unresolved and painful childhood memories seem to revisit out of nowhere, and even though you've worked and wished, or prayed about the pain, the pain lingers. We often resign ourselves to perceiving life as a chore instead of a joyful experience, which can lead to a lack of fulfillment and even chronic illness.
Life can present challenges, some we live with every day, and others seem to come out of nowhere. Maybe life doesn't follow along a path we've spent years creating and working toward. The business of living can begin to feel like a grind, and simple tasks may create exhaustion, fear, and uncertainty. Unresolved and painful childhood memories seem to revisit out of nowhere, and even though you've worked and wished, or prayed about the pain, the pain lingers. We often resign ourselves to perceiving life as a chore instead of a joyful experience, which can lead to a lack of fulfillment and even chronic illness.
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.
Carol Greenberger
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
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.
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
We want to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to living your best life as you want it to be.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
We want to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to living your best life as you want it to be.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
Sean Dawson
Psychological Associate, LPA, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
Sean Dawson, LPA, LCAS is a Licensed Psychological Associate and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist now serving patients at Avance Care SouthPark in Charlotte, NC. He obtained a Master of Arts degree in Psychology with a concentration in Substance Abuse Treatment Psychology from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. He has experience working with a wide range of mental health needs in both individual and group settings including depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. He specializes in working with individuals experiencing chronic pain and chronic conditions.
Sean Dawson, LPA, LCAS is a Licensed Psychological Associate and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist now serving patients at Avance Care SouthPark in Charlotte, NC. He obtained a Master of Arts degree in Psychology with a concentration in Substance Abuse Treatment Psychology from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. He has experience working with a wide range of mental health needs in both individual and group settings including depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. He specializes in working with individuals experiencing chronic pain and chronic conditions.
Madison Brightwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger.
I am licensed in four states and can offer Telehealth sessions to clients in CA, NC, WA and OR. Let's face it - life can be difficult. If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or you're struggling to just to feel "normal" again, you've made the right choice by seeking therapy. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to face and overcome life's challenges. You don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I know no two individuals are the same, and I'll tailor our sessions to address the challenges unique to you.
I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger.
I am licensed in four states and can offer Telehealth sessions to clients in CA, NC, WA and OR. Let's face it - life can be difficult. If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or you're struggling to just to feel "normal" again, you've made the right choice by seeking therapy. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to face and overcome life's challenges. You don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I know no two individuals are the same, and I'll tailor our sessions to address the challenges unique to you.
Jennifer Livingstone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Arden, NC 28704 (Online Only)
Your life has not turned out how you had planned or hoped. You are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, substance use, or loss. You find yourself trying to solve this discomfort by repeating behaviors that provide temporary relief, but ultimately lead you further away from the kind of life you want, and the kind of person you want to be. Instead of stuck, exhausted, desperate, and dissatisfied, you'd like to move through your life with confidence, compassion, clarity, trust, creativity, curiosity, and centeredness. You'd like to finally resolve the hurt or pain you have been carrying inside you.
Your life has not turned out how you had planned or hoped. You are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, substance use, or loss. You find yourself trying to solve this discomfort by repeating behaviors that provide temporary relief, but ultimately lead you further away from the kind of life you want, and the kind of person you want to be. Instead of stuck, exhausted, desperate, and dissatisfied, you'd like to move through your life with confidence, compassion, clarity, trust, creativity, curiosity, and centeredness. You'd like to finally resolve the hurt or pain you have been carrying inside you.
Grace Selvaggi
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28117
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.
Chronic Health Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025
Living with a chronic medical condition such as diabetes, chronic pain, cancer, or neurological disorders can take a toll on our emotional well-being making it even more difficult to live with the illness. Whether you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition, or have been living with a chronic illness for many years emotions such as sadness, hopelessness, fear, anxiety, and even anger can emerge making life difficult to face. I am here to help you find ways to express such emotions and work toward finding a sense of peace and joy.
Living with a chronic medical condition such as diabetes, chronic pain, cancer, or neurological disorders can take a toll on our emotional well-being making it even more difficult to live with the illness. Whether you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition, or have been living with a chronic illness for many years emotions such as sadness, hopelessness, fear, anxiety, and even anger can emerge making life difficult to face. I am here to help you find ways to express such emotions and work toward finding a sense of peace and joy.
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.
Leigh Zick Dongre
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
Alysann Whitley Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
The Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Center of Charlot
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Particular areas of focus include anxiety, depression, addictions, and chronic pain.
You have a right to a better life, to live with less distress; to have a life with possibility, potential, and vitality. I have worked with people like you who have found that within the warm, accepting, nonjudgmental, and supportive environment of our therapeutic relationship that change becomes possible. I invite you to be courageous and to reach beyond your fears to claim the life that you want.
Utilizing established, researched, and respected therapies, I treat many emotional and behavioral disorders by helping clients face their struggles and move towards a valued life.
Particular areas of focus include anxiety, depression, addictions, and chronic pain.
You have a right to a better life, to live with less distress; to have a life with possibility, potential, and vitality. I have worked with people like you who have found that within the warm, accepting, nonjudgmental, and supportive environment of our therapeutic relationship that change becomes possible. I invite you to be courageous and to reach beyond your fears to claim the life that you want.
Utilizing established, researched, and respected therapies, I treat many emotional and behavioral disorders by helping clients face their struggles and move towards a valued life.
Tim Bandell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTTS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with hopelessness, ongoing despair, lack of motivation, worrying, panic? Can't relax? Is your past wreaking havoc on your present? Chronic pain consuming your life? Does it feel like life is just too much? Is your baggage damaging your relationship? In a safe space, I provide therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship stress, trauma, chronic pain or life transitions.
Are you struggling with hopelessness, ongoing despair, lack of motivation, worrying, panic? Can't relax? Is your past wreaking havoc on your present? Chronic pain consuming your life? Does it feel like life is just too much? Is your baggage damaging your relationship? In a safe space, I provide therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship stress, trauma, chronic pain or life transitions.
Michelle McDevitt-Askew
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
There are seasons in life when the opportunity to grow can come from both joyful and challenging circumstances or complicated issues and relationships. It is my hope that in the safe,non-judgmental space of therapy we can begin to discover your core resiliency, strengths and create awareness for integrating healthy coping and communication skills for healing. I enjoy helping couples discover relational dynamics and patterns that keep them from enjoying a safe, close and vibrant relationship. I am well suited to work with families and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief and life stage transitioning.
There are seasons in life when the opportunity to grow can come from both joyful and challenging circumstances or complicated issues and relationships. It is my hope that in the safe,non-judgmental space of therapy we can begin to discover your core resiliency, strengths and create awareness for integrating healthy coping and communication skills for healing. I enjoy helping couples discover relational dynamics and patterns that keep them from enjoying a safe, close and vibrant relationship. I am well suited to work with families and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief and life stage transitioning.
Guy Morganstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I also enjoy working with people dealing with chronic pain and illness, and those with LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
I also enjoy working with people dealing with chronic pain and illness, and those with LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
Jennifer Beeghly
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I have specialized expertise in providing evidenced-based therapy to treat PTSD, adjustment from military service, relationship dissatisfaction, couple therapy, insomnia, pain, anxiety, somatic concerns, suicidality, and depression.
I am a licensed doctoral level clinical psychologist who provides individual and couple therapy. My approach is individualized based on the specific needs and goals of each client or couple and involves providing warmth and genuineness. My role is to assist you in gaining insight and perspective into the obstacles that are limiting you from living the life that you desire using a supportive and non-judgmental style that will facilitate personal exploration.
I have specialized expertise in providing evidenced-based therapy to treat PTSD, adjustment from military service, relationship dissatisfaction, couple therapy, insomnia, pain, anxiety, somatic concerns, suicidality, and depression.
I am a licensed doctoral level clinical psychologist who provides individual and couple therapy. My approach is individualized based on the specific needs and goals of each client or couple and involves providing warmth and genuineness. My role is to assist you in gaining insight and perspective into the obstacles that are limiting you from living the life that you desire using a supportive and non-judgmental style that will facilitate personal exploration.
The International Center for Wellness PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025 (Online Only)
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
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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.