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Online Therapists

Photo of Haley Rognstad, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Mount Gilead, NC
Haley Rognstad
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513  (Online Only)
Available for new clients (4/17/24)! I am passionate about assisting my clients in unlocking their inner wisdom and striving for balance in their lives. I enjoy working with adults of all gender identities, sexual orientations, and cultural backgrounds. I have experience assisting individuals with trauma and complex trauma (relational, physical, sexual, and emotional), spiritual trauma, childhood trauma, chronic pain, neurodivergence and adult diagnosed/self-diangosed autism, difficult life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ specific stressors. I work through an antiopppresive, health at every size, and neurodivergent affirming lens.
Available for new clients (4/17/24)! I am passionate about assisting my clients in unlocking their inner wisdom and striving for balance in their lives. I enjoy working with adults of all gender identities, sexual orientations, and cultural backgrounds. I have experience assisting individuals with trauma and complex trauma (relational, physical, sexual, and emotional), spiritual trauma, childhood trauma, chronic pain, neurodivergence and adult diagnosed/self-diangosed autism, difficult life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ specific stressors. I work through an antiopppresive, health at every size, and neurodivergent affirming lens.
(919) 504-5737 View (919) 504-5737
Photo of Madalina Ochenatu, Counselor in Mount Gilead, NC
Madalina Ochenatu
Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
It is frustrating to have tried everything, yet continue to feel in pain, sad, hopeless, stuck in the past, and worrying about the future, yourself, and your relationships. Stress, past trauma, chronic physical & mental illness can make you feel that way, affecting your quality of life (QOL). Imagine though a life where you get a boost of energy and motivation, quiet negative self-talk, cope better with stress, manage physical and emotional pain, build confidence, feel less worried, self-conscious and withdrawn, regain hope and pleasure in things you used to enjoy, live a healthier life style, and accomplish meaningful life goals.
It is frustrating to have tried everything, yet continue to feel in pain, sad, hopeless, stuck in the past, and worrying about the future, yourself, and your relationships. Stress, past trauma, chronic physical & mental illness can make you feel that way, affecting your quality of life (QOL). Imagine though a life where you get a boost of energy and motivation, quiet negative self-talk, cope better with stress, manage physical and emotional pain, build confidence, feel less worried, self-conscious and withdrawn, regain hope and pleasure in things you used to enjoy, live a healthier life style, and accomplish meaningful life goals.
(984) 205-4877 View (984) 205-4877
Photo of Cindy Austin Lineberger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Gilead, NC
Cindy Austin Lineberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMPH, CMIP
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
Over a decade of helping women to break free from overdoing & overcommitting with little return. Whether a fellow helper or chronic illness warrior, let's create a life you genuinely embrace vs tolerate. Imagine balance, confidence, ignited sexual wellness, & body positivity! Having personally lived with chronic illness, I understand its impact on various facets of life, including your job, sex life, self-esteem, and confidence. Fellow helpers can find refuge here, where you can leave your professional hat at the door in exchange for vulnerability. Let's chat!
Over a decade of helping women to break free from overdoing & overcommitting with little return. Whether a fellow helper or chronic illness warrior, let's create a life you genuinely embrace vs tolerate. Imagine balance, confidence, ignited sexual wellness, & body positivity! Having personally lived with chronic illness, I understand its impact on various facets of life, including your job, sex life, self-esteem, and confidence. Fellow helpers can find refuge here, where you can leave your professional hat at the door in exchange for vulnerability. Let's chat!
(828) 408-0507 View (828) 408-0507
Photo of Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Mount Gilead, NC
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.
(704) 512-0618 View (704) 512-0618
Photo of Heather Ingram, Counselor in Mount Gilead, NC
Heather Ingram
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
Waitlist for new clients
Growing up with family members living with mental illness gave me a deeply personal perspective on how important compassionate high quality mental health care is for clients and families. I am passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families with managing life transitions and coping with change, anxiety and depression, parenting, career issues, burnout, adjustment to disability and chronic illness, substance abuse, stress management, and lasting lifestyle behavioral change. I truly believe you can't heal what you don't feel, and I strive to provide a safe place for processing feelings and emotions.
Growing up with family members living with mental illness gave me a deeply personal perspective on how important compassionate high quality mental health care is for clients and families. I am passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families with managing life transitions and coping with change, anxiety and depression, parenting, career issues, burnout, adjustment to disability and chronic illness, substance abuse, stress management, and lasting lifestyle behavioral change. I truly believe you can't heal what you don't feel, and I strive to provide a safe place for processing feelings and emotions.
(919) 343-5649 View (919) 343-5649
Photo of Mindy Brodsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Gilead, NC
Mindy Brodsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LGSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Waitlist for new clients
Limited Availability - I specialize in trauma-informed, strengths-based counseling with a passion for integrative health and healing. I serve diverse adolescent and adult populations, including those impacted by cancer and other chronic illness, as well as those who struggle with anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and other life transitions such as prenatal/postpartum support.
Limited Availability - I specialize in trauma-informed, strengths-based counseling with a passion for integrative health and healing. I serve diverse adolescent and adult populations, including those impacted by cancer and other chronic illness, as well as those who struggle with anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and other life transitions such as prenatal/postpartum support.
(984) 464-7277 View (984) 464-7277
Photo of Patricia S. Duggan, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Mount Gilead, NC
Patricia S. Duggan
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27608  (Online Only)
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain & society makes it hard to heal. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain & society makes it hard to heal. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
(910) 400-1524 View (910) 400-1524
Photo of Christine L Jeffreys, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Mount Gilead, NC
Christine L Jeffreys
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27616  (Online Only)
I have a heart for serving adults, adolescents, couples and families dealing with significant life issues such as the death of a loved one, chronic illness or pain, issues stemming from past trauma, parenting children with special needs, or managing chronic mental health conditions such as ADHD, anxiety and depression. I believe that it is helpful when a therapist has a personal understanding of the areas in which they specialize. I have personal experience with all of these circumstances, allowing me a level of empathy and insight that may not be possible otherwise.
I have a heart for serving adults, adolescents, couples and families dealing with significant life issues such as the death of a loved one, chronic illness or pain, issues stemming from past trauma, parenting children with special needs, or managing chronic mental health conditions such as ADHD, anxiety and depression. I believe that it is helpful when a therapist has a personal understanding of the areas in which they specialize. I have personal experience with all of these circumstances, allowing me a level of empathy and insight that may not be possible otherwise.
(984) 203-6996 View (984) 203-6996
Photo of Suzanne F Bates, Psychologist in Mount Gilead, NC
Suzanne F Bates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Many of my clients struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, OCD and other anxiety disorders, chronic illness, relationship issues, and grief and loss issues.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to enhance learning about behavior, emotions, relationships, and oneself. My goal is to work through the difficulties you are experiencing now while we also build your resiliency to prevent or minimize future difficulties. I ask clients to devote time in between sessions to our work: to increase how accurately we understand your concerns and to take the therapeutic work into your everyday life. Treatment effectiveness relies heavily on the match between therapist and client. If it is not a positive match with me, I assist clients in finding your best match.
Many of my clients struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, OCD and other anxiety disorders, chronic illness, relationship issues, and grief and loss issues.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to enhance learning about behavior, emotions, relationships, and oneself. My goal is to work through the difficulties you are experiencing now while we also build your resiliency to prevent or minimize future difficulties. I ask clients to devote time in between sessions to our work: to increase how accurately we understand your concerns and to take the therapeutic work into your everyday life. Treatment effectiveness relies heavily on the match between therapist and client. If it is not a positive match with me, I assist clients in finding your best match.
(919) 429-7291 View (919) 429-7291
Photo of Greensboro Counseling Partners, PLLC in Mount Gilead, NC
Greensboro Counseling Partners, PLLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410  (Online Only)
Greensboro Counseling Partners is a private practice serving the counseling needs of adults and adolescents in the Triad area. Our therapists are masters level-trained clinicians with a combined experience spanning over 30 years in the mental health field. Our mission is to inspire hope and healing in those who struggle with depression, anxiety, and life challenges. We are here to walk with you through your pain, stress and struggles.
Greensboro Counseling Partners is a private practice serving the counseling needs of adults and adolescents in the Triad area. Our therapists are masters level-trained clinicians with a combined experience spanning over 30 years in the mental health field. Our mission is to inspire hope and healing in those who struggle with depression, anxiety, and life challenges. We are here to walk with you through your pain, stress and struggles.
(336) 739-4105 View (336) 739-4105
Photo of Robyn Greenwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Gilead, NC
Robyn Greenwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, chronic pain, illness, grief & loss, values work, life transitions, body image concerns and perfectionism, and neurodivergence.
My name is Robyn (she/her). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Outpatient Psychotherapist at Three Oaks Behavioral Health & Wellness in South Durham. I have diverse clinical experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, community mental health, with intimate partner violence, eating and substance use disorders, and adult & juvenile justice systems. I have a unique perspective on ways that our emotions, experiences, and the ways our own and others’ stories about us accumulate in our minds and bodies and can become stuck in our tissues causing us physical and emotional pain.
I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, chronic pain, illness, grief & loss, values work, life transitions, body image concerns and perfectionism, and neurodivergence.
My name is Robyn (she/her). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Outpatient Psychotherapist at Three Oaks Behavioral Health & Wellness in South Durham. I have diverse clinical experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, community mental health, with intimate partner violence, eating and substance use disorders, and adult & juvenile justice systems. I have a unique perspective on ways that our emotions, experiences, and the ways our own and others’ stories about us accumulate in our minds and bodies and can become stuck in our tissues causing us physical and emotional pain.
(919) 583-6517 View (919) 583-6517
Photo of Elizabeth Ross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Gilead, NC
Elizabeth Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
I enjoy working collaboratively with adult clients to improve interpersonal relationships, identify strengths, and move toward a sense of wholeness. I am passionate about working with clients who are experiencing grief and loss, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, relationship issues and have a history of trauma. I adopt an anti-racist and LGBTQ affirming approach and recognize the ways in which ones identity development is impacted by systemic oppression.
I enjoy working collaboratively with adult clients to improve interpersonal relationships, identify strengths, and move toward a sense of wholeness. I am passionate about working with clients who are experiencing grief and loss, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, relationship issues and have a history of trauma. I adopt an anti-racist and LGBTQ affirming approach and recognize the ways in which ones identity development is impacted by systemic oppression.
(919) 213-0225 View (919) 213-0225
Photo of Rachel Maguire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Gilead, NC
Rachel Maguire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
Waitlist for new clients
I work well with anyone struggling with symptoms of mental illness (including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder), processing trauma or grief, undergoing transitions, exploring their gender or sexual identity, or is a survivor of gender violence. I also understand the emotional impact of online relationships, friendships, and community building, and enjoy working with folks immersed in online culture or who have online/long-distance support systems.
I work well with anyone struggling with symptoms of mental illness (including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder), processing trauma or grief, undergoing transitions, exploring their gender or sexual identity, or is a survivor of gender violence. I also understand the emotional impact of online relationships, friendships, and community building, and enjoy working with folks immersed in online culture or who have online/long-distance support systems.
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Photo of Wellness Counseling PLLC in Mount Gilead, NC
Wellness Counseling PLLC
LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27127  (Online Only)
I only work with adults, and my specific area of expertise is in anxiety disorders, working with survivors of abuse, chronic illness, completing HRT/gender confirmation evaluations, and I love working with my LGBTQ+ folks!.
Let’s talk therapy! Sometimes therapy sessions consist of talking about recipes, animals, the book you’re reading, laughing, crying, crying and laughing at the same time, experiencing all the emotions, having a place to vent, coping with trauma, and therapy can feel really really challenging, and I’m here for ALL of it. I strive to help you grow by creating a trusting, transparent, empathetic, safe, and gently confrontational relationship. I view people as autonomous human beings, and SO capable, (even on the days you're not feeling that), because after all, up until now, you have survived your worst days.
I only work with adults, and my specific area of expertise is in anxiety disorders, working with survivors of abuse, chronic illness, completing HRT/gender confirmation evaluations, and I love working with my LGBTQ+ folks!.
Let’s talk therapy! Sometimes therapy sessions consist of talking about recipes, animals, the book you’re reading, laughing, crying, crying and laughing at the same time, experiencing all the emotions, having a place to vent, coping with trauma, and therapy can feel really really challenging, and I’m here for ALL of it. I strive to help you grow by creating a trusting, transparent, empathetic, safe, and gently confrontational relationship. I view people as autonomous human beings, and SO capable, (even on the days you're not feeling that), because after all, up until now, you have survived your worst days.
(844) 258-0947 View (844) 258-0947
Photo of James A Barbour, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Gilead, NC
James A Barbour
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610  (Online Only)
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
(252) 585-5186 View (252) 585-5186
Photo of Betsy Newsome Moody, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mount Gilead, NC
Betsy Newsome Moody
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
My areas of expertise include grief, loss, health-related concerns, chronic illness, stress management, anxiety, caregiver burnout, and trauma.
Do you have something you need to talk about? Trudging through life with stress, grief, anxiety, or other burdens can feel lonely and exhausting. Address your mental health needs through conversation and engage in therapeutic interventions to bring positive change in your life. Exploring how your mental health has negative impacts on your body and your daily life will improve your well-being.
My areas of expertise include grief, loss, health-related concerns, chronic illness, stress management, anxiety, caregiver burnout, and trauma.
Do you have something you need to talk about? Trudging through life with stress, grief, anxiety, or other burdens can feel lonely and exhausting. Address your mental health needs through conversation and engage in therapeutic interventions to bring positive change in your life. Exploring how your mental health has negative impacts on your body and your daily life will improve your well-being.
(919) 372-0687 View (919) 372-0687
Photo of Kristy Bastone, Counselor in Mount Gilead, NC
Kristy Bastone
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC, C-AAIS, MEd, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I have experience working with clients of all ages on a wide range of issues, including chronic pain and illness, anxiety, parenting, adoption, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, addiction, veterans concerns, and grief. I believe that counseling is a collaborative experience, where both the client and therapist decide on a way forward together.
I have experience working with clients of all ages on a wide range of issues, including chronic pain and illness, anxiety, parenting, adoption, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, addiction, veterans concerns, and grief. I believe that counseling is a collaborative experience, where both the client and therapist decide on a way forward together.
(919) 709-3620 View (919) 709-3620
Photo of CRAFT Counseling & Consultation Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Gilead, NC
CRAFT Counseling & Consultation Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
Waitlist for new clients
"Healing is not the absence of the storm. Healing is the way we ride it." In life, each of us may face storms that test our resilience and spirit. Whether you come from a diverse background or any other, these challenges can feel overwhelming and isolating. Finding a haven of understanding and support is essential - You are not meant to navigate this journey alone. As a dedicated LCSW with over 9 years of expertise, I've been privileged to support individuals through their most challenging times - be it depression, anxiety, grief, chronic pain/illness, or life transitions.
"Healing is not the absence of the storm. Healing is the way we ride it." In life, each of us may face storms that test our resilience and spirit. Whether you come from a diverse background or any other, these challenges can feel overwhelming and isolating. Finding a haven of understanding and support is essential - You are not meant to navigate this journey alone. As a dedicated LCSW with over 9 years of expertise, I've been privileged to support individuals through their most challenging times - be it depression, anxiety, grief, chronic pain/illness, or life transitions.
(919) 849-3364 View (919) 849-3364
Photo of Kathy Murray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Gilead, NC
Kathy Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, Somatic
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
As a Somatic Therapist, I believe that everyone has within them an inner wisdom and inner healing power that is their natural birthright. My role is to help create the environment for that inner genius to arise and find itself. When this is done, new meaning, purpose and life narratives can be discovered and lived out. I have wide experience assisting individuals in managing a variety of behavioral and emotional concerns including trauma, chronic pain and health issues, difficult life transitions, weight management, anxiety, depression, and stress management.
As a Somatic Therapist, I believe that everyone has within them an inner wisdom and inner healing power that is their natural birthright. My role is to help create the environment for that inner genius to arise and find itself. When this is done, new meaning, purpose and life narratives can be discovered and lived out. I have wide experience assisting individuals in managing a variety of behavioral and emotional concerns including trauma, chronic pain and health issues, difficult life transitions, weight management, anxiety, depression, and stress management.
(919) 276-8754 View (919) 276-8754
Photo of Azleena Salleh Azhar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Gilead, NC
Azleena Salleh Azhar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Waitlist for new clients
Are you trapped in a relationship with a narcissistic partner? Are you facing major life transitions, like coping with chronic illness, grief, and loss? Do you have a child or teen who is constantly struggling at home and at school? You are taking the right step by getting help! It took a lot of courage to overcome the stigma and reach this point. You don't have to walk alone. By tackling the issues together we can overcome the barriers of honor and shame.
Are you trapped in a relationship with a narcissistic partner? Are you facing major life transitions, like coping with chronic illness, grief, and loss? Do you have a child or teen who is constantly struggling at home and at school? You are taking the right step by getting help! It took a lot of courage to overcome the stigma and reach this point. You don't have to walk alone. By tackling the issues together we can overcome the barriers of honor and shame.
(919) 298-8107 View (919) 298-8107
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.