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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Patricia A Toth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newport, NC
Patricia A Toth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Havelock, NC 28532  (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 Sagestone PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Newport, NC
Sagestone PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPCA, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Emerald Isle, NC 28594
At Sagestone, we respect and acknowledge the vital aspects of your life and take a "whole you" approach. We use empathy, compassion, and curiosity to better understand you and your needs. We listen. We share our experience, "know how", and provide thought-provoking, substantive, and practical process. We provide support that fosters safety, curiosity, and growth. We meet you where you are, in the here and now, allowing you to experience grounded vulnerability, presence, and acceptance, as you expand your way of being to embody inner peace, balance, and empowerment.
At Sagestone, we respect and acknowledge the vital aspects of your life and take a "whole you" approach. We use empathy, compassion, and curiosity to better understand you and your needs. We listen. We share our experience, "know how", and provide thought-provoking, substantive, and practical process. We provide support that fosters safety, curiosity, and growth. We meet you where you are, in the here and now, allowing you to experience grounded vulnerability, presence, and acceptance, as you expand your way of being to embody inner peace, balance, and empowerment.
(252) 674-1971 View (252) 674-1971

Online Therapists

Photo of Amy G Therriault, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Newport, 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 Michele Ruhmann, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Newport, NC
Michele Ruhmann
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28560
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is on working with people who are experiencing anxiety, pain, trauma recovery, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained, stuck and you don’t know what to do or where to turn next? Moving forward can sometimes feel daunting but you can do it. Begin to take back your power today! You can learn to manage the chaos, calm those defeating thoughts, ease the tension in your body and begin to feel positive. Your story has a purpose and is as unique as you are, we will work together to create a tailored therapy experience to meet your goals using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), somatic bodywork, and traditional talk therapy.
My focus is on working with people who are experiencing anxiety, pain, trauma recovery, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained, stuck and you don’t know what to do or where to turn next? Moving forward can sometimes feel daunting but you can do it. Begin to take back your power today! You can learn to manage the chaos, calm those defeating thoughts, ease the tension in your body and begin to feel positive. Your story has a purpose and is as unique as you are, we will work together to create a tailored therapy experience to meet your goals using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), somatic bodywork, and traditional talk therapy.
(252) 379-5081 View (252) 379-5081
Photo of Teresa Vaughan, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Newport, 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 Jen Johnson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Newport, NC
Jen Johnson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, MFA, CRC, BCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include stress, grief, loss, transitions, anxiety, chronic illness, perfectionism, self-criticism, creativity, gifted adults, and medical trauma.
Are stress and ruminating thoughts about the past or future keeping you up at night? Do you wake up feeling anxious and worried? Are you struggling with stress related illness, such as autoimmune illness or high blood pressure? Have you lost your sense of aliveness, meaning, and purpose? I offer life coaching and counseling services to adults. I teach people how to develop inner peace, calm, and resilience so that you cope with the difficult times more skillfully and savor life's joy, beauty, and awe more fully.
My areas of specialty include stress, grief, loss, transitions, anxiety, chronic illness, perfectionism, self-criticism, creativity, gifted adults, and medical trauma.
Are stress and ruminating thoughts about the past or future keeping you up at night? Do you wake up feeling anxious and worried? Are you struggling with stress related illness, such as autoimmune illness or high blood pressure? Have you lost your sense of aliveness, meaning, and purpose? I offer life coaching and counseling services to adults. I teach people how to develop inner peace, calm, and resilience so that you cope with the difficult times more skillfully and savor life's joy, beauty, and awe more fully.
(910) 653-1690 View (910) 653-1690
Photo of Lauren Morales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newport, NC
Lauren Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
I offer individual therapy to address various mental health concerns including survivorship, grief, adjustment to change, chronic illness, PTSD, & anxiety/depression.
Have you found yourself lying in bed awake at 2am your thoughts spinning? Maybe you've just gotten news from your doctor and you feel flooded with overwhelm or fear. Perhaps you are feeling lost, fuzzy, and numb after losing someone (or something) that you really loved. If you've found yourself in these situations you likely find it difficult to relate to others who just don't "get it." You probably avoid situations that bring a sense of dread and battle with feelings of hopeless/helplessness. You may even struggle with trusting your body. I know how difficult it is to ask for help, but I am so glad you are here.
I offer individual therapy to address various mental health concerns including survivorship, grief, adjustment to change, chronic illness, PTSD, & anxiety/depression.
Have you found yourself lying in bed awake at 2am your thoughts spinning? Maybe you've just gotten news from your doctor and you feel flooded with overwhelm or fear. Perhaps you are feeling lost, fuzzy, and numb after losing someone (or something) that you really loved. If you've found yourself in these situations you likely find it difficult to relate to others who just don't "get it." You probably avoid situations that bring a sense of dread and battle with feelings of hopeless/helplessness. You may even struggle with trusting your body. I know how difficult it is to ask for help, but I am so glad you are here.
(910) 519-8262 View (910) 519-8262
Photo of Sarah Brownlee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newport, NC
Sarah Brownlee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
At some point in our lives, we all experience pain or illness. So, what happens when pain or illness becomes a defining point in our lives? We may not do the things we used to do, we may not feel like ourselves, we may not live our lives the way we thought we would. BALANCE Integrative Care, PLLC, recognizes how broadly and deeply pain or illness may affect our lives. Our services support people to manage or cope with pain or illness in a way that allows them to live their lives more fully.
At some point in our lives, we all experience pain or illness. So, what happens when pain or illness becomes a defining point in our lives? We may not do the things we used to do, we may not feel like ourselves, we may not live our lives the way we thought we would. BALANCE Integrative Care, PLLC, recognizes how broadly and deeply pain or illness may affect our lives. Our services support people to manage or cope with pain or illness in a way that allows them to live their lives more fully.
(910) 663-4525 View (910) 663-4525
Photo of Leslie A Veach, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Newport, NC
Leslie A Veach
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHCS, CGP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858
Sometimes we feel alone, even in a crowd or with significant others. Pain, trauma, feeling different/misunderstood/unknown or even how we see ourselves can drive a wedge between us and the people and life experiences that matter most to us. If you are looking for someone who will join with you as you find your way through to a more meaningful way of living and toward more fulfilling relationships, then I welcome you to contact me for a free consultation.
Sometimes we feel alone, even in a crowd or with significant others. Pain, trauma, feeling different/misunderstood/unknown or even how we see ourselves can drive a wedge between us and the people and life experiences that matter most to us. If you are looking for someone who will join with you as you find your way through to a more meaningful way of living and toward more fulfilling relationships, then I welcome you to contact me for a free consultation.
(252) 489-4588 View (252) 489-4588
Photo of Olinda Davidson in Newport, 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 Marcy Arnold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newport, NC
Marcy Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
(252) 772-9378 View (252) 772-9378
Photo of HigherMind Integrative Therapy, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newport, NC
HigherMind Integrative Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PSYCH-K, CHT, EFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edenton, NC 27932
HigherMind has hired a new therapist and invites you to contact us to start services. Energy Psychology is giving new life to an engaging therapeutic experience. As your licensed therapist and Energy Psychology Practitioner, we may opt to use techniques such as Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), EMDR, CBT/DBT/ACT, PSYCH-K and/or Hypnosis. Holistic-minded options may include muscle testing, tapping, visualization, affirmations, light, sound and talk therapy. Expect to identify unhealthy belief systems that create negative patterns of thinking. Now might be the time for you to set intentions for healing.
HigherMind has hired a new therapist and invites you to contact us to start services. Energy Psychology is giving new life to an engaging therapeutic experience. As your licensed therapist and Energy Psychology Practitioner, we may opt to use techniques such as Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), EMDR, CBT/DBT/ACT, PSYCH-K and/or Hypnosis. Holistic-minded options may include muscle testing, tapping, visualization, affirmations, light, sound and talk therapy. Expect to identify unhealthy belief systems that create negative patterns of thinking. Now might be the time for you to set intentions for healing.
(910) 400-1815 View (910) 400-1815
Photo of Lynanne Romano, Psychologist in Newport, NC
Lynanne Romano
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
Dr. Romano is a dedicated clinical psychologist treating Adult ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, and Depression. With a Psy.D. from Immaculata University and over fifteen years of experience in mental health, she brings a wealth of expertise and a compassionate, relatable approach to her practice. Dr. Romano establishes a strong connection with clients, fostering a safe and supportive environment for growth and healing. Her evidence-based treatments are personalized to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring a holistic and empowering therapeutic experience.
Dr. Romano is a dedicated clinical psychologist treating Adult ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, and Depression. With a Psy.D. from Immaculata University and over fifteen years of experience in mental health, she brings a wealth of expertise and a compassionate, relatable approach to her practice. Dr. Romano establishes a strong connection with clients, fostering a safe and supportive environment for growth and healing. Her evidence-based treatments are personalized to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring a holistic and empowering therapeutic experience.
(910) 541-9780 View (910) 541-9780
Photo of Dr. Wendy G Harris, Counseling & Supervision, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Newport, NC
Dr. Wendy G Harris, Counseling & Supervision
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, EdD, LCMHC S, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
**Please feel free to leave us a message** If you're reading my profile you've taken an important first step towards change. Sometimes taking that first step feels challenging. I'm glad you're here! As my client we will work together to set realistic goals that are specific to making positive life changes, building strength, enhancing resiliency and overall personal growth. The relationships I establish with my clients are compassionate, collaborative and geared towards individual success. Working together, we'll pull from several different treatment modalities that will assist in producing positive life results.
**Please feel free to leave us a message** If you're reading my profile you've taken an important first step towards change. Sometimes taking that first step feels challenging. I'm glad you're here! As my client we will work together to set realistic goals that are specific to making positive life changes, building strength, enhancing resiliency and overall personal growth. The relationships I establish with my clients are compassionate, collaborative and geared towards individual success. Working together, we'll pull from several different treatment modalities that will assist in producing positive life results.
(919) 816-2030 View (919) 816-2030
Photo of Lisa Beresnyak, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Newport, NC
Lisa Beresnyak
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCAS, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
I believe all humans have the potential to discover their inner strength and overcome difficulties. I help clients to understand the root of unhealthy behavior patterns and thoughts to break free from what is holding them back from living authentically. My approach includes mindfulness, compassion, and helping my clients to recognize their own inner resources. I look forward to working with you to create transformation, healing and strength from within despite the external challenges of the world, being "stuck" in past trauma or childhood narratives, and day to day stressors - EMDR/trauma based focus.
I believe all humans have the potential to discover their inner strength and overcome difficulties. I help clients to understand the root of unhealthy behavior patterns and thoughts to break free from what is holding them back from living authentically. My approach includes mindfulness, compassion, and helping my clients to recognize their own inner resources. I look forward to working with you to create transformation, healing and strength from within despite the external challenges of the world, being "stuck" in past trauma or childhood narratives, and day to day stressors - EMDR/trauma based focus.
(919) 629-1372 View (919) 629-1372
Photo of Derek Prescott, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Newport, NC
Derek Prescott
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PsyD, LCMHC, CAS, CATP
Verified Verified
Hubert, NC 28539
For appointments call or text 910-545-2142. We offer a compassionate and positive environment to help you make empowering decisions about life and overcome any struggles or obstacles. Using emphatic, compassionate, empowering skills, our goal is to assist you in applying the skills needed to make healthy changes. We view the therapeutic relationship as an honor and appreciate the courage that it takes to enter a healing relationship. We look forward to sharing your journey and believe that we will learn from one another throughout this healing journey.
For appointments call or text 910-545-2142. We offer a compassionate and positive environment to help you make empowering decisions about life and overcome any struggles or obstacles. Using emphatic, compassionate, empowering skills, our goal is to assist you in applying the skills needed to make healthy changes. We view the therapeutic relationship as an honor and appreciate the courage that it takes to enter a healing relationship. We look forward to sharing your journey and believe that we will learn from one another throughout this healing journey.
(910) 469-0264 View (910) 469-0264
Photo of Haley Meyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newport, NC
Haley Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405  (Online Only)
Life altering experiences can cause us to feel physically and emotionally unsafe. After these experiences, we often ruminate on the past, overthink and worry about the future, and expect that something bad may happen. Daily tasks can become difficult, and sometimes talking feels like it makes things worse. Imagine feeling secure, safe, and enjoying every day things without worrying about what’s next or living in the past. It is possible to find a way to accept things as they are, reconnect with the people you care about, and enjoy the things that mean the most to you. Please note I currently only offer virtual sessions in evenings.
Life altering experiences can cause us to feel physically and emotionally unsafe. After these experiences, we often ruminate on the past, overthink and worry about the future, and expect that something bad may happen. Daily tasks can become difficult, and sometimes talking feels like it makes things worse. Imagine feeling secure, safe, and enjoying every day things without worrying about what’s next or living in the past. It is possible to find a way to accept things as they are, reconnect with the people you care about, and enjoy the things that mean the most to you. Please note I currently only offer virtual sessions in evenings.
(910) 463-9841 View (910) 463-9841
Photo of Joseph Rengifo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newport, NC
Joseph Rengifo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CCMC, CCSI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Our intrinsic need to adapt and evolve is a double-edge sword. We have developed coping skills that helps us survive external demands, modern society poses a threat to our way of living because we have not been able to catch up. We still behave the way we did thousands of years ago because we have not learned to discriminate between past and present. Let's explore the causes and mechanisms that make your problems what they and create a plan to confront and resolve those issues to protect your mental health. I use an integrative approach to therapy that I call Behavioral Medicine.
Our intrinsic need to adapt and evolve is a double-edge sword. We have developed coping skills that helps us survive external demands, modern society poses a threat to our way of living because we have not been able to catch up. We still behave the way we did thousands of years ago because we have not learned to discriminate between past and present. Let's explore the causes and mechanisms that make your problems what they and create a plan to confront and resolve those issues to protect your mental health. I use an integrative approach to therapy that I call Behavioral Medicine.
(910) 777-5575 View (910) 777-5575
Photo of Natalie David, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newport, NC
Natalie David
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I provide therapy to people struggling with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, PTSD, life transitions, ADHD, perinatal and postpartum depression. I also help clients who need help with managing conflict, maintaining boundaries, and improving communication skills. If you are going through a divorce, I can assist with the grief process. Therapy is a collaborative process that can only be experienced in a safe and trusting relationship, so finding the "right fit" therapist is crucial to the success of therapy.
I provide therapy to people struggling with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, PTSD, life transitions, ADHD, perinatal and postpartum depression. I also help clients who need help with managing conflict, maintaining boundaries, and improving communication skills. If you are going through a divorce, I can assist with the grief process. Therapy is a collaborative process that can only be experienced in a safe and trusting relationship, so finding the "right fit" therapist is crucial to the success of therapy.
(910) 387-1617 View (910) 387-1617

See more therapy options for Newport

Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Newport

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.