Photo of Sacred Listener, Counselor in Orange County, NC
Sacred Listener
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I also have experience as a hospital chaplain and am honored to help those dealing with chronic illness, grief, and loss.
Are you a generally healthy person, looking for guidance in how to live your life in the healthiest and happiest way? Whether your challenges are in the realm of finances, relationships, work satisfaction, anxiety, or depression, transpersonal counseling can help you! If you are looking for a therapist that can include your spiritual beliefs and include those in your treatment, and if you enjoy varied approaches to mental health and happiness such as art, yoga, and meditation, I might be the therapist for you!
I also have experience as a hospital chaplain and am honored to help those dealing with chronic illness, grief, and loss.
Are you a generally healthy person, looking for guidance in how to live your life in the healthiest and happiest way? Whether your challenges are in the realm of finances, relationships, work satisfaction, anxiety, or depression, transpersonal counseling can help you! If you are looking for a therapist that can include your spiritual beliefs and include those in your treatment, and if you enjoy varied approaches to mental health and happiness such as art, yoga, and meditation, I might be the therapist for you!
(919) 335-6734 View (919) 335-6734
Photo of Leigh Zick Dongre, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Orange County, NC
Leigh Zick Dongre
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
(336) 791-0314 View (336) 791-0314
Photo of Dan Chartier, Psychologist in Orange County, NC
Dan Chartier
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Dan Chartier, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist- Health Service Provider, Raleigh, NC has been in private practice since 1983. As a psychotherapist, in addition to "talk therapy", Dr. Chartier uses psychophysiological methods of biofeedback and neurofeedback to facilitate mind-body healing. In his work, deepening awareness and release of non-productive behaviors is a primary process. By learning to enter neutral emotional space clients come to more clearly recognize options and choices that result in improved health. In addition to treating clients with psychological and emotional distress, Dr. Chartier works with patients coping with chronic pain or recovering from brain injury.
Dan Chartier, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist- Health Service Provider, Raleigh, NC has been in private practice since 1983. As a psychotherapist, in addition to "talk therapy", Dr. Chartier uses psychophysiological methods of biofeedback and neurofeedback to facilitate mind-body healing. In his work, deepening awareness and release of non-productive behaviors is a primary process. By learning to enter neutral emotional space clients come to more clearly recognize options and choices that result in improved health. In addition to treating clients with psychological and emotional distress, Dr. Chartier works with patients coping with chronic pain or recovering from brain injury.
(252) 349-0938 View (252) 349-0938
Photo of Amick Boone, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Orange County, NC
Amick Boone
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510
Offering multiple discounted sliding scale slots to those who can't afford my rate. Educated, licensed, and in clinical practice since 2018 in the Bay Area, CA, I'm a licensed therapist (LMFTA) who recently moved my practice to Durham. Primarily trained in Gestalt therapy, as an integral therapist I also pull from IFS, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, and other somatic, experiential, mindfulness-based modalities. Anxiety, depression, chronic illness, infertility, loss, explorations of identity, communication issues, deepening intimacy, and building trust are a few of the challenges that bring clients to me.
Offering multiple discounted sliding scale slots to those who can't afford my rate. Educated, licensed, and in clinical practice since 2018 in the Bay Area, CA, I'm a licensed therapist (LMFTA) who recently moved my practice to Durham. Primarily trained in Gestalt therapy, as an integral therapist I also pull from IFS, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, and other somatic, experiential, mindfulness-based modalities. Anxiety, depression, chronic illness, infertility, loss, explorations of identity, communication issues, deepening intimacy, and building trust are a few of the challenges that bring clients to me.
(919) 666-6798 View (919) 666-6798
Photo of Leslie Mulligan, Counselor in Orange County, NC
Leslie Mulligan
Counselor, MS, EdS, LCPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517  (Online Only)
Anxiety; depression; grief; pain; mood disorientation, relationship, sleep and life changes; and work/life balance improve when honest and clear understanding is present and supported to change.
I am a creative humanist. As an experiential psychotherapist, I join with you in your life-in-process to support your self-awareness, healing, and growth. I engage with your whole person - body, mind, being - your unique "me". Life change, moods, relationships, work, health, recovery are my focus. Rather than lean into pathology, I value your intelligence, ways of expression, learning and strategies. Using facts, metaphor, lived experience, humor, honesty you'll see your own best way through. I tailor my tools to your person/couple/family's needs. You gain objective and compassionate insights, and new tools for thriving.
Anxiety; depression; grief; pain; mood disorientation, relationship, sleep and life changes; and work/life balance improve when honest and clear understanding is present and supported to change.
I am a creative humanist. As an experiential psychotherapist, I join with you in your life-in-process to support your self-awareness, healing, and growth. I engage with your whole person - body, mind, being - your unique "me". Life change, moods, relationships, work, health, recovery are my focus. Rather than lean into pathology, I value your intelligence, ways of expression, learning and strategies. Using facts, metaphor, lived experience, humor, honesty you'll see your own best way through. I tailor my tools to your person/couple/family's needs. You gain objective and compassionate insights, and new tools for thriving.
(207) 843-9672 View (207) 843-9672
Photo of Southeast Institute for Group and Family Therapy, Psychologist in Orange County, NC
Southeast Institute for Group and Family Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517  (Online Only)
The Southeast Institute is a nonprofit educational institute offering continuing education (CEUs) workshops and training programs in psychotherapy for mental health professionals as well as direct clinical services. The Southeast Institute has earned respect and recognition for its excellence of training and its continued commitment to developing effective models for individual and social change. Trainees have traveled from nearly every state and more than 10 countries to attend workshops and ongoing training and supervision programs. SEI practitioners offer individual therapy, couples therapy, group therapy, family therapy, redecision therapy, TA, child therapy, energy psychotherapy (AIT), EMDR, and intensive personal growth programs.
The Southeast Institute is a nonprofit educational institute offering continuing education (CEUs) workshops and training programs in psychotherapy for mental health professionals as well as direct clinical services. The Southeast Institute has earned respect and recognition for its excellence of training and its continued commitment to developing effective models for individual and social change. Trainees have traveled from nearly every state and more than 10 countries to attend workshops and ongoing training and supervision programs. SEI practitioners offer individual therapy, couples therapy, group therapy, family therapy, redecision therapy, TA, child therapy, energy psychotherapy (AIT), EMDR, and intensive personal growth programs.
(919) 582-5002 View (919) 582-5002
Photo of James C. Carpenter, Psychologist in Orange County, NC
James C. Carpenter
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Suffering draws us to consider therapy, much as it sends us to any doctor. The suffering therapy focuses on is emotional and existential (a LIFE that is out of whack). If you are considering therapy it means that you take your suffering seriously and wish to seek a more fulfilling life. You know instinctively that more is possible. I have many years of experience in helping people to develop greater strength and more fulfilling relationships.
Suffering draws us to consider therapy, much as it sends us to any doctor. The suffering therapy focuses on is emotional and existential (a LIFE that is out of whack). If you are considering therapy it means that you take your suffering seriously and wish to seek a more fulfilling life. You know instinctively that more is possible. I have many years of experience in helping people to develop greater strength and more fulfilling relationships.
(919) 234-5209 View (919) 234-5209
Photo of Present Therapy, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Orange County, NC
Present Therapy
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, NC, LCMHCA, 19045
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Why do we do anything? I believe the reason that we do anything is to feel better. There may be 5 physical senses; however, we pursue life always in the hope of feeling better. We attract our life circumstances based on how we feel. Our active emotions create an emotional vibrational set point. When we learn to tend to our emotional health first, prior to engaging in action, we become the authors of our lives. Learning to find emotional alignment prior to engaging in activity, conversation, and interaction with others, will allow us to attract our wanted life desires. Thus, change your energy and you change your life.
Why do we do anything? I believe the reason that we do anything is to feel better. There may be 5 physical senses; however, we pursue life always in the hope of feeling better. We attract our life circumstances based on how we feel. Our active emotions create an emotional vibrational set point. When we learn to tend to our emotional health first, prior to engaging in action, we become the authors of our lives. Learning to find emotional alignment prior to engaging in activity, conversation, and interaction with others, will allow us to attract our wanted life desires. Thus, change your energy and you change your life.
(919) 893-0195 View (919) 893-0195
Photo of Michael Thomas Rumbach, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Orange County, NC
Michael Thomas Rumbach
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
You are not what you feel. You are not even what you think. You are what you do. Acceptance & Commitment Therapy is about taking thoughts and feelings and using them for what they're supposed to be: data. They are merely to let us know how we're responding to our environment. It is up to our higher cognitions, our rational thoughts, to decide what to do with that information. My clients range from those with neurodevelopmental issues, mood disorders, and life adjustment events. The premise is the same in all cases: understand ourselves, what we feel and think, figure out WHY we think that way, and then decide what to do with it.
You are not what you feel. You are not even what you think. You are what you do. Acceptance & Commitment Therapy is about taking thoughts and feelings and using them for what they're supposed to be: data. They are merely to let us know how we're responding to our environment. It is up to our higher cognitions, our rational thoughts, to decide what to do with that information. My clients range from those with neurodevelopmental issues, mood disorders, and life adjustment events. The premise is the same in all cases: understand ourselves, what we feel and think, figure out WHY we think that way, and then decide what to do with it.
(984) 230-9508 View (984) 230-9508

Online Therapists

Photo of Pat Holsclaw, Counselor in Orange County, NC
Pat Holsclaw
Counselor, LCMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
I am a Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts Therapist and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. For more than 20 years, I have walked alongside Clients through Grief and Trauma in both Individual and Group Settings. I have experience working with all ages, although my focus currently is with Teen Girls and Women experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma, Medical Illness, Anger/Stress Management, and Life Transitions.
I am a Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts Therapist and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. For more than 20 years, I have walked alongside Clients through Grief and Trauma in both Individual and Group Settings. I have experience working with all ages, although my focus currently is with Teen Girls and Women experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma, Medical Illness, Anger/Stress Management, and Life Transitions.
(336) 490-9054 View (336) 490-9054
Photo of Megan Wrast, Counselor in Orange County, NC
Megan Wrast
Counselor, LCMHCA, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27617
My counseling experiences have allowed me to work with individuals ranging from elementary aged children, to elderly adults. I have obtained a skillset working with individuals who have been involved in the criminal justice system, have experienced a variety of trauma, have been living with severe and persistent mental illness, have interacted with juvie and foster care systems, have experienced human trafficking, face daily challenges with anxiety, depression, & life transitions as well as individuals that have histories of abuse. I am passionate about working with individuals to reach their goals, and live authentically.
My counseling experiences have allowed me to work with individuals ranging from elementary aged children, to elderly adults. I have obtained a skillset working with individuals who have been involved in the criminal justice system, have experienced a variety of trauma, have been living with severe and persistent mental illness, have interacted with juvie and foster care systems, have experienced human trafficking, face daily challenges with anxiety, depression, & life transitions as well as individuals that have histories of abuse. I am passionate about working with individuals to reach their goals, and live authentically.
(984) 689-9852 View (984) 689-9852
Photo of Rachel Garfield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Orange County, NC
Rachel Garfield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
All pain creates stress which intensifies the pain, becoming a vicious cycle that can lead to anxiety and depression, disruptive relations with others, and despair.
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addiction and relationships with adults with the goal of healing the client's relationship within themselves and with others. We will work through your past to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
All pain creates stress which intensifies the pain, becoming a vicious cycle that can lead to anxiety and depression, disruptive relations with others, and despair.
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addiction and relationships with adults with the goal of healing the client's relationship within themselves and with others. We will work through your past to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
(919) 535-4925 View (919) 535-4925
Photo of Becky Shaffer, Counselor in Orange County, NC
Becky Shaffer
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Life is not always easy, but I believe we all have the strength within us to grow, adapt, and heal. My goal is to create a safe space for you to uncover your own resilience and cultivate a sense of meaning and purpose in this life. I primarily work with adults of all ages facing a variety of concerns such as: anxiety, panic, mild-to-moderate depression, grief and loss, OCD, chronic and terminal physical illness, relational/family stressors, and difficulties related to addiction. I am able to integrate faith and spirituality into counseling if so desired.
Life is not always easy, but I believe we all have the strength within us to grow, adapt, and heal. My goal is to create a safe space for you to uncover your own resilience and cultivate a sense of meaning and purpose in this life. I primarily work with adults of all ages facing a variety of concerns such as: anxiety, panic, mild-to-moderate depression, grief and loss, OCD, chronic and terminal physical illness, relational/family stressors, and difficulties related to addiction. I am able to integrate faith and spirituality into counseling if so desired.
(919) 679-9515 View (919) 679-9515
Photo of Tiffany Rogers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Orange County, NC
Tiffany Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCASA, NCC, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612
However, what I can do is stand with you in your pain while we get through it together! I can guarantee you that I will provide you with professional counseling without judgment but with empathy and compassion .
Ever felt alone, rejected or misunderstood? Or simply just felt overwhelmed with many obstacles coming at once? If you have, you are not the only one, nor are you in this by yourself. In fact, I believe that it is my duty and my obligation to give you support and help you realize that there is a way to get your life back, to become a better you! Regardless if it is addiction, depression, anxiety or just overall life- you can overcome whatever you are facing with the right tools , skills and support.
However, what I can do is stand with you in your pain while we get through it together! I can guarantee you that I will provide you with professional counseling without judgment but with empathy and compassion .
Ever felt alone, rejected or misunderstood? Or simply just felt overwhelmed with many obstacles coming at once? If you have, you are not the only one, nor are you in this by yourself. In fact, I believe that it is my duty and my obligation to give you support and help you realize that there is a way to get your life back, to become a better you! Regardless if it is addiction, depression, anxiety or just overall life- you can overcome whatever you are facing with the right tools , skills and support.
(984) 207-3267 View (984) 207-3267
Photo of Shivani L. Chudasama, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orange County, NC
Shivani L. Chudasama
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, RYT-500
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27704  (Online Only)
I currently have a waitlist. I am a clinical social worker and registered yoga teacher who empowers people using the guiding principles of empathy, curiosity, cultural humility, and collaboration. I take an integrative, somatic, and highly relational approach and work to understand how the intersection of your unique experiences impact today. I remain committed to working with people as they face a range of experiences, including multicultural concerns, oppression, identity exploration, trauma, anxiety, depression, queer/LGB+ concerns, trans and gender identity related concerns, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and grief.
I currently have a waitlist. I am a clinical social worker and registered yoga teacher who empowers people using the guiding principles of empathy, curiosity, cultural humility, and collaboration. I take an integrative, somatic, and highly relational approach and work to understand how the intersection of your unique experiences impact today. I remain committed to working with people as they face a range of experiences, including multicultural concerns, oppression, identity exploration, trauma, anxiety, depression, queer/LGB+ concerns, trans and gender identity related concerns, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and grief.
(919) 759-5711 View (919) 759-5711
Photo of Seriana Gamble, Counselor in Orange County, NC
Seriana Gamble
Counselor, Lmcha
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
As someone who had a parent with a severe autoimmune disorder as well as living with my own paired with chronic pain, I have a passion for helping kids and adults strengthen the connection between medical trauma, pain, and mental health.
Hey there! If you have found my profile and you are seeking a counselor who will help you work through your current life issues, then you have found the right place. I work with children 8 and under, teens, and adults. When working with kids, I love to focus on building the child's coping skills, providing the emotional support they need, and helping them work through their stressors while also supporting the parents in their interactions with their children. When working with adults, I like to focus on helping you bring out the best version of yourself while aiding you in working through any issues you may have.
As someone who had a parent with a severe autoimmune disorder as well as living with my own paired with chronic pain, I have a passion for helping kids and adults strengthen the connection between medical trauma, pain, and mental health.
Hey there! If you have found my profile and you are seeking a counselor who will help you work through your current life issues, then you have found the right place. I work with children 8 and under, teens, and adults. When working with kids, I love to focus on building the child's coping skills, providing the emotional support they need, and helping them work through their stressors while also supporting the parents in their interactions with their children. When working with adults, I like to focus on helping you bring out the best version of yourself while aiding you in working through any issues you may have.
(984) 867-2307 View (984) 867-2307
Photo of Dr. Anne Baker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orange County, NC
Dr. Anne Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27701  (Online Only)
I work with adults only and specialize in treatment for chronic pain, complex trauma, anxiety, and grief. I especially enjoy supporting clients who have functional pain syndromes (e.g., fibromyalgia) and painful autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, MS, RA) alongside histories of trauma. Clients most frequently come into therapy with me expressing a desire to more deeply understand themselves and their sense of suffering, and to heal the burdens they carry. My job in that process is never to fix you or tell you what to do. Rather, it is to support you in discovering your own deep knowing about who you are and what you need to heal.
I work with adults only and specialize in treatment for chronic pain, complex trauma, anxiety, and grief. I especially enjoy supporting clients who have functional pain syndromes (e.g., fibromyalgia) and painful autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, MS, RA) alongside histories of trauma. Clients most frequently come into therapy with me expressing a desire to more deeply understand themselves and their sense of suffering, and to heal the burdens they carry. My job in that process is never to fix you or tell you what to do. Rather, it is to support you in discovering your own deep knowing about who you are and what you need to heal.
(919) 759-6056 View (919) 759-6056
Photo of Leah Diaz, Counselor in Orange County, NC
Leah Diaz
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, Trauma, 500ERYT, YACEP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28312
Waitlist for new clients
I understand that starting counseling is not easy. Chances are that you’ve tried it before, or that things currently feel like they’re too much to handle. You don’t have to do this alone. My goal is to help you reach YOUR goals. Topics may include: self-esteem/worth, coping skills, psych-Ed, mood regulation, couple counseling, anxiety, depression, OCD, daily stressors, affair recovery, trauma/ PTSD resolution, sexual dysfunction, support for LBGTQA+ or ENM lifestyle, military life challenges, grief and more. I support all beliefs and will gladly incorporate yours into sessions if that is your wish. Each appointment is truly for YOU!
I understand that starting counseling is not easy. Chances are that you’ve tried it before, or that things currently feel like they’re too much to handle. You don’t have to do this alone. My goal is to help you reach YOUR goals. Topics may include: self-esteem/worth, coping skills, psych-Ed, mood regulation, couple counseling, anxiety, depression, OCD, daily stressors, affair recovery, trauma/ PTSD resolution, sexual dysfunction, support for LBGTQA+ or ENM lifestyle, military life challenges, grief and more. I support all beliefs and will gladly incorporate yours into sessions if that is your wish. Each appointment is truly for YOU!
(910) 909-4135 View (910) 909-4135
Photo of Andrew Elman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Orange County, NC
Andrew Elman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, ATR, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705  (Online Only)
I incorporate my training of mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and expressive therapy (art therapy) to help my clients in reducing anxiety and emotional distress, and thus improving understanding and self-awareness. I’m an artist, a free-thinker, and a trauma survivor. Painting and drawing on a daily basis has allowed me to explore emotions, survive, and know that we are not alone in this one wild and precious life we are living. I want to take care of what’s coming up in your life without judgment and help unlock those parts of you that seem impossible to look at.
I incorporate my training of mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and expressive therapy (art therapy) to help my clients in reducing anxiety and emotional distress, and thus improving understanding and self-awareness. I’m an artist, a free-thinker, and a trauma survivor. Painting and drawing on a daily basis has allowed me to explore emotions, survive, and know that we are not alone in this one wild and precious life we are living. I want to take care of what’s coming up in your life without judgment and help unlock those parts of you that seem impossible to look at.
(919) 585-1529 View (919) 585-1529
Photo of Kelly White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orange County, NC
Kelly White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Life is full of twist and turns; ups and downs. Learning to manage your emotions and remain mentally stable gives you the ability to endure the unexpected and unknown. Focusing on your strengths and recognizing your weaknesses provides you the opportunity and ability to move forward. Understanding the neurological impact of trauma, fear, disappointment and hurt, gives you the opportunity to adjust and manage life’s complexities. Let’s talk about moving forward.
Life is full of twist and turns; ups and downs. Learning to manage your emotions and remain mentally stable gives you the ability to endure the unexpected and unknown. Focusing on your strengths and recognizing your weaknesses provides you the opportunity and ability to move forward. Understanding the neurological impact of trauma, fear, disappointment and hurt, gives you the opportunity to adjust and manage life’s complexities. Let’s talk about moving forward.
(919) 277-0253 View (919) 277-0253

See more therapy options for Orange County

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.