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Online Therapists

Photo of Shivani L. Chudasama, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pembroke, 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 Tara Jubanowsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pembroke, NC
Tara Jubanowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270  (Online Only)
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
(984) 265-8755 View (984) 265-8755
Photo of Bradley Vaughn, Counselor in Pembroke, NC
Bradley Vaughn
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
Lastly, I also work with individuals who live with chronic pain.
Being human is hard, emotions are complicative, and our mental health is real and important. I encourage clients to come to me as they are with a desire to make changes to become who they want to be. Together we will explore and challenge our thoughts and beliefs while remaining gentle recognizing that the process can be hard and slow at times. We will set goals and strive to reach them. We will stay open to gain a sense of self-awareness as you move forward on your path of becoming who you desire to be. I work with individuals and couples who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship/sex issues, & LGBTQIA+.
Lastly, I also work with individuals who live with chronic pain.
Being human is hard, emotions are complicative, and our mental health is real and important. I encourage clients to come to me as they are with a desire to make changes to become who they want to be. Together we will explore and challenge our thoughts and beliefs while remaining gentle recognizing that the process can be hard and slow at times. We will set goals and strive to reach them. We will stay open to gain a sense of self-awareness as you move forward on your path of becoming who you desire to be. I work with individuals and couples who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship/sex issues, & LGBTQIA+.
(980) 655-2283 View (980) 655-2283
Photo of Tamara Hicks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pembroke, NC
Tamara Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212
I have learned that I am not for everyone and everyone is not for me. I am a whole vibe professionally speaking. Therapy is a journey one in which the client is in the drivers seat and the therapist is in the passenger seat, shotgun! The client that wants to get to the root of the pain, hurt, awkwardness, craziness, sadness, the list goes on is a great match with Ms. Tam. The client that also pulls from hope, spirit, experience, the unknown is a match with me. Its helpful for the client to remain open throughout at least 3-6 sessions after the assessment in order to fully rate symptom change.
I have learned that I am not for everyone and everyone is not for me. I am a whole vibe professionally speaking. Therapy is a journey one in which the client is in the drivers seat and the therapist is in the passenger seat, shotgun! The client that wants to get to the root of the pain, hurt, awkwardness, craziness, sadness, the list goes on is a great match with Ms. Tam. The client that also pulls from hope, spirit, experience, the unknown is a match with me. Its helpful for the client to remain open throughout at least 3-6 sessions after the assessment in order to fully rate symptom change.
(704) 313-1034 View (704) 313-1034
Photo of Pam Koretsky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pembroke, NC
Pam Koretsky, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I have an all telehealth practice for adults who live in Florida and North Carolina using a HIPAA compliant video platform. In this stressful environment we live in, learning to be our own best friend can lead us down a happier path. Through Cognitive Behavioral techniques we can understand the connection between our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, life transitions chronic pain and illness, depression, caregiver issues, low self-esteem and grief. These are only some of the issues. By using solution focused therapy, clients can begin to feel better in a shorter time frame.
I have an all telehealth practice for adults who live in Florida and North Carolina using a HIPAA compliant video platform. In this stressful environment we live in, learning to be our own best friend can lead us down a happier path. Through Cognitive Behavioral techniques we can understand the connection between our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, life transitions chronic pain and illness, depression, caregiver issues, low self-esteem and grief. These are only some of the issues. By using solution focused therapy, clients can begin to feel better in a shorter time frame.
(919) 605-3544 View (919) 605-3544
Photo of Enlightened Hearts Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pembroke, NC
Enlightened Hearts Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carthage, NC 28327
My experiences include over a decade of work in the medical system where I assisted patients, families, and caregivers dealing with grief, chronic illness, trauma, life-transitions and caregiver burnout.
Does something feel off in your life? Do your struggles include anxiety, depression, past traumas, or low self-esteem? Are you ready to begin the journey of healing, self-acceptance, and calmness in your life? I believe we heal when we are heard. Reach out and let's begin that process together to find relief, joy, peace of mind, and the ability to thrive! We will use techniques to access your inner, highest self because that's who you really are!
My experiences include over a decade of work in the medical system where I assisted patients, families, and caregivers dealing with grief, chronic illness, trauma, life-transitions and caregiver burnout.
Does something feel off in your life? Do your struggles include anxiety, depression, past traumas, or low self-esteem? Are you ready to begin the journey of healing, self-acceptance, and calmness in your life? I believe we heal when we are heard. Reach out and let's begin that process together to find relief, joy, peace of mind, and the ability to thrive! We will use techniques to access your inner, highest self because that's who you really are!
(910) 807-8047 View (910) 807-8047
Photo of Betsy Newsome Moody, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pembroke, NC
Betsy Newsome Moody
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
My areas of expertise include grief, loss, health-related concerns, chronic illness, stress management, anxiety, caregiver burnout, and trauma.
Do you have something you need to talk about? Trudging through life with stress, grief, anxiety, or other burdens can feel lonely and exhausting. Address your mental health needs through conversation and engage in therapeutic interventions to bring positive change in your life. Exploring how your mental health has negative impacts on your body and your daily life will improve your well-being.
My areas of expertise include grief, loss, health-related concerns, chronic illness, stress management, anxiety, caregiver burnout, and trauma.
Do you have something you need to talk about? Trudging through life with stress, grief, anxiety, or other burdens can feel lonely and exhausting. Address your mental health needs through conversation and engage in therapeutic interventions to bring positive change in your life. Exploring how your mental health has negative impacts on your body and your daily life will improve your well-being.
(919) 372-0687 View (919) 372-0687
Photo of Robyn Greenwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pembroke, NC
Robyn Greenwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, chronic pain, illness, grief & loss, values work, life transitions, body image concerns and perfectionism, and neurodivergence.
My name is Robyn (she/her). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Outpatient Psychotherapist at Three Oaks Behavioral Health & Wellness in South Durham. I have diverse clinical experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, community mental health, with intimate partner violence, eating and substance use disorders, and adult & juvenile justice systems. I have a unique perspective on ways that our emotions, experiences, and the ways our own and others’ stories about us accumulate in our minds and bodies and can become stuck in our tissues causing us physical and emotional pain.
I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, chronic pain, illness, grief & loss, values work, life transitions, body image concerns and perfectionism, and neurodivergence.
My name is Robyn (she/her). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Outpatient Psychotherapist at Three Oaks Behavioral Health & Wellness in South Durham. I have diverse clinical experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, community mental health, with intimate partner violence, eating and substance use disorders, and adult & juvenile justice systems. I have a unique perspective on ways that our emotions, experiences, and the ways our own and others’ stories about us accumulate in our minds and bodies and can become stuck in our tissues causing us physical and emotional pain.
(919) 583-6517 View (919) 583-6517
Photo of Meg Barry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pembroke, NC
Meg Barry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27712
Waitlist for new clients
8-9 Month Waitlist-You matter and you are enough! I am a trauma therapist whose approach is integrative and honors each client’s unique emotional system. I believe that creating safety in client-counselor relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. I greet each client with warmth, understanding, and non-judgement, drawing on each client’s strength and inner wisdom to bring about change in their lives. I am passionate about working with adults with a history of trauma, attachment trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and auto-immune/chronic pain.
8-9 Month Waitlist-You matter and you are enough! I am a trauma therapist whose approach is integrative and honors each client’s unique emotional system. I believe that creating safety in client-counselor relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. I greet each client with warmth, understanding, and non-judgement, drawing on each client’s strength and inner wisdom to bring about change in their lives. I am passionate about working with adults with a history of trauma, attachment trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and auto-immune/chronic pain.
(919) 726-0565 View (919) 726-0565
Photo of Cindy W Hickman, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Pembroke, NC
Cindy W Hickman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sanford, NC 27330
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed with life, exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event? Perhaps you struggle with a chronic illness. Maybe you struggle with a difficult child or teen. Or maybe your partner has been unfaithful. Are you tired of feeling isolated and hopeless? You want- no, you need- things to change, but you don’t where to begin. Asking for help can be one of the most difficulty things to do, but I would be honored to help you discover your inner strength and begin your journey to healing and being who you are meant to be.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed with life, exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event? Perhaps you struggle with a chronic illness. Maybe you struggle with a difficult child or teen. Or maybe your partner has been unfaithful. Are you tired of feeling isolated and hopeless? You want- no, you need- things to change, but you don’t where to begin. Asking for help can be one of the most difficulty things to do, but I would be honored to help you discover your inner strength and begin your journey to healing and being who you are meant to be.
(984) 234-5683 View (984) 234-5683
Photo of Mark Livak, Counselor in Pembroke, NC
Mark Livak
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I admire anyone who is willing to heal their from their emotional pain and improve their troubled relationships.
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
I admire anyone who is willing to heal their from their emotional pain and improve their troubled relationships.
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
(704) 268-9898 View (704) 268-9898
Photo of Becky Shaffer, Counselor in Pembroke, 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 Myriam Rabaste, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pembroke, NC
Myriam Rabaste
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, EMDR, II
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
(704) 870-2290 View (704) 870-2290
Photo of Crystal Shaw, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Pembroke, NC
Crystal Shaw
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469  (Online Only)
I have availability for Friday morning appointments. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor offering online/virtual therapy with over 16 years of experience in counseling. I have worked for public organizations for most of my career, which means I have experience working with a variety of different people. I specialize in anxiety disorders, career dissatisfaction/stress management, and life transitions/adjustments (i.e. college, career switch, divorce, aging, onset of illness).
I have availability for Friday morning appointments. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor offering online/virtual therapy with over 16 years of experience in counseling. I have worked for public organizations for most of my career, which means I have experience working with a variety of different people. I specialize in anxiety disorders, career dissatisfaction/stress management, and life transitions/adjustments (i.e. college, career switch, divorce, aging, onset of illness).
(910) 430-3807 View (910) 430-3807
Photo of Jonathan Farber, Psychologist in Pembroke, NC
Jonathan Farber
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
My journey from couch potato to national triathlon champion contributes to my work: balancing effort with rest, coping with pain and injury, food issues, sustaining motivation.
I work with individuals and couples, as well as children, in both DC and Chapel Hill. I do best with adults who are educated or reflective: many are scientists, artists, health and business professionals, or psychotherapists, and some are not pursuing conventional achievement.Some see me for family or work problems, some for help dealing with a chronic health issue or a loss, some to change longstanding emotional and interpersonal patterns involving anxiety, anger, or intimacy. We may try quick and simple approaches first, because sometimes they work, but if not we can go more deeply into the individual's unique personal narrative.
My journey from couch potato to national triathlon champion contributes to my work: balancing effort with rest, coping with pain and injury, food issues, sustaining motivation.
I work with individuals and couples, as well as children, in both DC and Chapel Hill. I do best with adults who are educated or reflective: many are scientists, artists, health and business professionals, or psychotherapists, and some are not pursuing conventional achievement.Some see me for family or work problems, some for help dealing with a chronic health issue or a loss, some to change longstanding emotional and interpersonal patterns involving anxiety, anger, or intimacy. We may try quick and simple approaches first, because sometimes they work, but if not we can go more deeply into the individual's unique personal narrative.
(919) 351-1352 View (919) 351-1352
Photo of Kristy Bastone, Counselor in Pembroke, NC
Kristy Bastone
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC, C-AAIS, MEd, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I have experience working with clients of all ages on a wide range of issues, including chronic pain and illness, anxiety, parenting, adoption, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, addiction, veterans concerns, and grief. I believe that counseling is a collaborative experience, where both the client and therapist decide on a way forward together.
I have experience working with clients of all ages on a wide range of issues, including chronic pain and illness, anxiety, parenting, adoption, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, addiction, veterans concerns, and grief. I believe that counseling is a collaborative experience, where both the client and therapist decide on a way forward together.
(919) 709-3620 View (919) 709-3620
Photo of Anna Mulhollem, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pembroke, NC
Anna Mulhollem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I serve individual adults needing support with emotion regulation, chronic pain, grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. It takes so much courage to be on this journey, and it can be overwhelming to search for a therapist. I get that and will meet you right where you are. As a psychotherapist and former mental health peer support specialist, I bring my lived experience and professional expertise to our work together. My goal is to co-create a space with you of trust, compassion, and respect to build a foundation for healing. I am honored to join you on your path.
I serve individual adults needing support with emotion regulation, chronic pain, grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. It takes so much courage to be on this journey, and it can be overwhelming to search for a therapist. I get that and will meet you right where you are. As a psychotherapist and former mental health peer support specialist, I bring my lived experience and professional expertise to our work together. My goal is to co-create a space with you of trust, compassion, and respect to build a foundation for healing. I am honored to join you on your path.
(919) 289-4161 View (919) 289-4161
Photo of Janet Heuring Larsen, Psychologist in Pembroke, NC
Janet Heuring Larsen
Psychologist, MA, LCAS, LPA, HSP-PA, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
PRACTICE MAY HAVE A WAITLIST, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR INQUIRIES: My psychology practice is committed to delivering highly effective treatment and outstanding client care. I've helped individuals navigate challenges and improve their lives for over 10 years. I treat clients with an array of issues including relationship struggles, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, anger, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, substance use/addiction and grief. I serve many clients with co-occurring disorders and have trained other therapists. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and trauma using EMDR and also offer ADHD/ADD counseling.
PRACTICE MAY HAVE A WAITLIST, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR INQUIRIES: My psychology practice is committed to delivering highly effective treatment and outstanding client care. I've helped individuals navigate challenges and improve their lives for over 10 years. I treat clients with an array of issues including relationship struggles, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, anger, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, substance use/addiction and grief. I serve many clients with co-occurring disorders and have trained other therapists. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and trauma using EMDR and also offer ADHD/ADD counseling.
(919) 948-3053 View (919) 948-3053
Photo of The International Center for Wellness PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pembroke, NC
The International Center for Wellness PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
(704) 327-5647 x101 View (704) 327-5647 x101
Photo of Julie Hardman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pembroke, NC
Julie Hardman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
I spent years working with clients in Wake and Durham counties and still do! Are you struggling day in day out and want to see something change? I'd love to get to know you and collaborate on how you might cultivate a more fulfilling, less distressing life. I counsel women ages 21+ living with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain and illness; relationship issues, work stressors, major life transitions, grief and loss, creative block, learning self advocacy. I am an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. You can learn to flourish despite issues you may now see as impediments. Let me walk with you on this journey. Let's find your joy!
I spent years working with clients in Wake and Durham counties and still do! Are you struggling day in day out and want to see something change? I'd love to get to know you and collaborate on how you might cultivate a more fulfilling, less distressing life. I counsel women ages 21+ living with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain and illness; relationship issues, work stressors, major life transitions, grief and loss, creative block, learning self advocacy. I am an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. You can learn to flourish despite issues you may now see as impediments. Let me walk with you on this journey. Let's find your joy!
(336) 203-7986 View (336) 203-7986

See more therapy options for Pembroke

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.