Photo of Olinda Davidson in New Bern, 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 Teresa Vaughan, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in New Bern, 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 Patricia A Toth, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Bern, 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
Photo of Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling in New Bern, NC
Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling
MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28560  (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 Karen Tompkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Bern, NC
Karen Tompkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28560  (Online Only)
Over 30 years' experience helping people with emotional pain, trauma, fear, anxiety, depression, confusion, grief, esteem, stress, and life changes including heart break and narcissistic abuse. I can assist you in using your personal strengths, develop new coping skills and strategies that you can, immediately use to feel better and live fully.
Over 30 years' experience helping people with emotional pain, trauma, fear, anxiety, depression, confusion, grief, esteem, stress, and life changes including heart break and narcissistic abuse. I can assist you in using your personal strengths, develop new coping skills and strategies that you can, immediately use to feel better and live fully.
View
Photo of Aurey Rodriguez, Counselor in New Bern, NC
Aurey Rodriguez
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
Waitlist for new clients
This journey that we call life can be bumpy and many times unpredictable, but with the right tools you will be equipped to tackle what may come your way ( life transitions, anxiety, motherhood, self-esteem, negative mindsets, people pleasers, and much more) I'm here to walk alongside you, provide a safe space that will enable you to voice out all those hidden emotions, identify patterns and triggers and empower you to make healthy decisions in life. Ofresco Terapia en Español.
This journey that we call life can be bumpy and many times unpredictable, but with the right tools you will be equipped to tackle what may come your way ( life transitions, anxiety, motherhood, self-esteem, negative mindsets, people pleasers, and much more) I'm here to walk alongside you, provide a safe space that will enable you to voice out all those hidden emotions, identify patterns and triggers and empower you to make healthy decisions in life. Ofresco Terapia en Español.
(252) 375-4252 View (252) 375-4252
Photo of Irma Abrego-Lappin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Bern, NC
Irma Abrego-Lappin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28560
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, I believe people have deep-rooted aspirations for well-being in many areas of their lives, including emotional, physical, social, and spiritual wellness. I strive to make a safe and trusting relationship with clients so that they can improve in each of these areas and feel more balanced and fulfilled. I collaboratively work with clients, valuing their unique strengths, interests, and aspirations. I enjoy working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, grief, life transitions, career/vocational concerns, spirituality, weight management and body image concerns, and relationship issues.
As a therapist, I believe people have deep-rooted aspirations for well-being in many areas of their lives, including emotional, physical, social, and spiritual wellness. I strive to make a safe and trusting relationship with clients so that they can improve in each of these areas and feel more balanced and fulfilled. I collaboratively work with clients, valuing their unique strengths, interests, and aspirations. I enjoy working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, grief, life transitions, career/vocational concerns, spirituality, weight management and body image concerns, and relationship issues.
(252) 379-0066 View (252) 379-0066

Online Therapists

Photo of Eastern Trauma & Recovery, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Bern, NC
Eastern Trauma & Recovery
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS-A, Trauma, CCTS-S, CFTP, Crisis
Verified Verified
Spring Hope, NC 27882
Needed: 1099 counselor. Contact if interested. Please leave me a message so that I can return your call ASAP. Thank you. No one as a child stated, "I want to abuse drugs" or "I want to experience trauma" (ie car wreck, rape). Life happens and sometimes it becomes out of control. Understanding trauma and/or addiction, or even them together, can help an individual to feel as though they are being heard. It is my honor to help you walk through your pain and begin to live life once more without the heaviness of the past.
Needed: 1099 counselor. Contact if interested. Please leave me a message so that I can return your call ASAP. Thank you. No one as a child stated, "I want to abuse drugs" or "I want to experience trauma" (ie car wreck, rape). Life happens and sometimes it becomes out of control. Understanding trauma and/or addiction, or even them together, can help an individual to feel as though they are being heard. It is my honor to help you walk through your pain and begin to live life once more without the heaviness of the past.
(252) 477-7662 View (252) 477-7662
Photo of Tita Johnson, Counselor in New Bern, NC
Tita Johnson
Counselor, LCMHC, LPC/S, MAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27804  (Online Only)
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
(843) 428-6596 View (843) 428-6596
Photo of New Way Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Bern, NC
New Way Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knightdale, NC 27545
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Often times life can be challenging and many of us are not prepared to deal with those issues and find ourselves in an unfamiliar place. As a therapist, I am dedicated to providing individualized care to meet your needs. I've worked with children and adults in the mental health field for over 16 years and individuals with addiction for over 8 years. I've treated individuals with various mental health and substance use disorders. My experience enables me to offer effective, individualized outpatient psychological care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges and addiction.
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Often times life can be challenging and many of us are not prepared to deal with those issues and find ourselves in an unfamiliar place. As a therapist, I am dedicated to providing individualized care to meet your needs. I've worked with children and adults in the mental health field for over 16 years and individuals with addiction for over 8 years. I've treated individuals with various mental health and substance use disorders. My experience enables me to offer effective, individualized outpatient psychological care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges and addiction.
(919) 289-8267 View (919) 289-8267
Photo of Rob Moser, Counselor in New Bern, 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 Amy G Therriault, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in New Bern, NC
Amy G Therriault
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunn, NC 28334  (Online Only)
What thoughts race through your mind as you go through the day? What thoughts have become obstacles? Do those thoughts hold you captive in states of anxiety and depression? Do they make you feel unsafe, insecure, and isolated, even when we are surrounded by others? Do these thoughts make relationships complicated and responsibilities seem impossible? Are your mental and emotional stressors effecting your physical well-being in ways like physical pain, fatigue, sensory intolerance, brain fog, and inability to focus? Exploring your thoughts and feelings can be difficult, but you do not have to walk through this process alone.
What thoughts race through your mind as you go through the day? What thoughts have become obstacles? Do those thoughts hold you captive in states of anxiety and depression? Do they make you feel unsafe, insecure, and isolated, even when we are surrounded by others? Do these thoughts make relationships complicated and responsibilities seem impossible? Are your mental and emotional stressors effecting your physical well-being in ways like physical pain, fatigue, sensory intolerance, brain fog, and inability to focus? Exploring your thoughts and feelings can be difficult, but you do not have to walk through this process alone.
(919) 646-2779 View (919) 646-2779
Photo of C. Anne Whitfield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in New Bern, NC
C. Anne Whitfield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28540
Anne treats a variety of clinical disorders, including mood disorders, attention and focus issues, stress management, relationship/martial issues, domestic violence and child abuse, grief and loss, women’s issues, and cultural lifestyle issues. Anne has been active in providing services to active-duty service members and their families coping with domestic violence. Additionally, she has a passion for working with teachers that teach exceptional children or children with challenging behavioral issues in the classroom. As well as individuals coping with chronic health conditions to cope and process their illness.
Anne treats a variety of clinical disorders, including mood disorders, attention and focus issues, stress management, relationship/martial issues, domestic violence and child abuse, grief and loss, women’s issues, and cultural lifestyle issues. Anne has been active in providing services to active-duty service members and their families coping with domestic violence. Additionally, she has a passion for working with teachers that teach exceptional children or children with challenging behavioral issues in the classroom. As well as individuals coping with chronic health conditions to cope and process their illness.
(910) 335-4253 View (910) 335-4253
Photo of Char Boyette, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Bern, 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
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 Dr. Ralph Fox II, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Bern, NC
Dr. Ralph Fox II
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
(910) 216-4872 View (910) 216-4872
Photo of Ann Marie Simmonds, Psychological Associate in New Bern, NC
Ann Marie Simmonds
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Ann Simmonds, MA, LPA, LCAS, CCS: I am dedicated to helping individuals work through personal and relational issues so that they may cope effectively and realize a more fulfilling life. I specialize in helping individuals work through depression, anxiety, trauma and grief, relational issues, and chronic pain in order to realize their full potential. I hold a master’s degree in Psychology and Substance Use Treatment from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
Ann Simmonds, MA, LPA, LCAS, CCS: I am dedicated to helping individuals work through personal and relational issues so that they may cope effectively and realize a more fulfilling life. I specialize in helping individuals work through depression, anxiety, trauma and grief, relational issues, and chronic pain in order to realize their full potential. I hold a master’s degree in Psychology and Substance Use Treatment from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
(910) 550-2992 View (910) 550-2992
Photo of Anne Mauldin, Psychologist in New Bern, 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 Darren Keith Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Bern, NC
Darren Keith Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knightdale, NC 27545
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Life is challenging. Sometimes we need professional support to help us navigate our way back to full recovery. Let me help you. I enjoy working with individuals who are trying to make sense of their lives. Whether it involves issues concerning anxiety, depression, stress, anger, life transition(s), academic/work performance, or other personal challenges, I will provide you with a supportive and safe space to assist you in gaining insight into your life.
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Life is challenging. Sometimes we need professional support to help us navigate our way back to full recovery. Let me help you. I enjoy working with individuals who are trying to make sense of their lives. Whether it involves issues concerning anxiety, depression, stress, anger, life transition(s), academic/work performance, or other personal challenges, I will provide you with a supportive and safe space to assist you in gaining insight into your life.
(919) 877-6644 View (919) 877-6644
Photo of Kathy Elias, MA, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in New Bern, NC
Kathy Elias, MA
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, sadness, grief or loss, fear, shame or guilt? Do you feel withdrawn or go against your own values to please others, or even lash out sometimes because you don’t know what to do with how you feel? Holding feelings inside can lead to many problems including depression, anxiety, physical illness or ailments, and disconnection from friends and family. Are you your own worst critic and condemn yourself? Do you feel stuck, or lost in life and sometimes wonder who you are? You want to feel better but don't know how to get there.
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, sadness, grief or loss, fear, shame or guilt? Do you feel withdrawn or go against your own values to please others, or even lash out sometimes because you don’t know what to do with how you feel? Holding feelings inside can lead to many problems including depression, anxiety, physical illness or ailments, and disconnection from friends and family. Are you your own worst critic and condemn yourself? Do you feel stuck, or lost in life and sometimes wonder who you are? You want to feel better but don't know how to get there.
(919) 443-5817 View (919) 443-5817

Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for New Bern

See More Chronic Pain Therapists
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.