Photo of Karen Arthur, Counselor in Pfafftown, NC
Karen Arthur
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pfafftown, NC 27040
I believe that healing that takes place with another person present is sacred. I enjoy working with clients at any stage of the healing process, from just starting their journey to feeling confident in their abilities. We will create a safe, supportive environment for you to explore yourself and become the best possible you through listening, education, and creative counseling techniques that are NOT Freud's psychotherapy. I love it when clients bring in questions, ask for homework, and commit to the process of counseling. At the same time, I have worked successfully with numerous clients who weren't so sure about going on their journey yet. If motivation is lacking, I like to provide a sounding board for clients who want to be inspired and empowered to decide what's right for them. I regularly ask my clients to get their hands dirty so that in the future, you will have the tools and coping skills you need to embrace your life. Much of counseling is a "choose your own ending" adventure novel, and when you are up for those twists, I'll be right beside you so you do not have to walk through the dark alone.
I believe that healing that takes place with another person present is sacred. I enjoy working with clients at any stage of the healing process, from just starting their journey to feeling confident in their abilities. We will create a safe, supportive environment for you to explore yourself and become the best possible you through listening, education, and creative counseling techniques that are NOT Freud's psychotherapy. I love it when clients bring in questions, ask for homework, and commit to the process of counseling. At the same time, I have worked successfully with numerous clients who weren't so sure about going on their journey yet. If motivation is lacking, I like to provide a sounding board for clients who want to be inspired and empowered to decide what's right for them. I regularly ask my clients to get their hands dirty so that in the future, you will have the tools and coping skills you need to embrace your life. Much of counseling is a "choose your own ending" adventure novel, and when you are up for those twists, I'll be right beside you so you do not have to walk through the dark alone.
(336) 203-8341 View (336) 203-8341
Photo of Kimberly Autrey, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Pfafftown, NC
Kimberly Autrey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, ACC
Verified Verified
Pfafftown, NC 27040  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. As a therapist, I love seeing people grow and make the changes they want to restore balance to their lives. My goal is to help you navigate life's challenges by offering a safe space to share your feelings and to deepen your understanding of your emotional health. I frequently serve clients experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, grief, relationship struggles, and school and work transitions. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or just feeling stuck, today you are one step closer to feeling empowered to move forward in your life.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. As a therapist, I love seeing people grow and make the changes they want to restore balance to their lives. My goal is to help you navigate life's challenges by offering a safe space to share your feelings and to deepen your understanding of your emotional health. I frequently serve clients experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, grief, relationship struggles, and school and work transitions. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or just feeling stuck, today you are one step closer to feeling empowered to move forward in your life.
(336) 791-0876 View (336) 791-0876

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Leigh Zick Dongre, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Pfafftown, NC
Leigh Zick Dongre
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
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 Deidre Montgomery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pfafftown, NC
Deidre Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
(336) 396-5798 View (336) 396-5798
Photo of House Call Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pfafftown, NC
House Call Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Life is complicated, but finding support for your mental health doesn't have to be. At House Call Counseling, we bring the haven of therapy directly to you, whether it's over the phone or in your own home. Since 2018, we've been the Triad's trusted partner in mental well-being, offering our unique blend of home-based and telehealth therapy. Our compassionate therapists are just a click away, ready to guide you through life's challenges with personalized care.
Life is complicated, but finding support for your mental health doesn't have to be. At House Call Counseling, we bring the haven of therapy directly to you, whether it's over the phone or in your own home. Since 2018, we've been the Triad's trusted partner in mental well-being, offering our unique blend of home-based and telehealth therapy. Our compassionate therapists are just a click away, ready to guide you through life's challenges with personalized care.
(336) 221-3912 View (336) 221-3912
Photo of Rebecca Rankin, Counselor in Pfafftown, NC
Rebecca Rankin
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
As Brené Brown said, "Loving ourselves through the process of owning our story is the bravest thing we will ever do." Beauty, self-awareness, and growth often come from our willingness to be vulnerable and share our stories even when they can be quite difficult to tell. It is in these moments that it would be my honor to listen to your story with the hope that it enables you to experience empathy, acceptance, and understanding. To facilitate this, I use a person-centered approach combined with other techniques that can help you focus on emotional wellness and develop solutions in areas of concern to you.
As Brené Brown said, "Loving ourselves through the process of owning our story is the bravest thing we will ever do." Beauty, self-awareness, and growth often come from our willingness to be vulnerable and share our stories even when they can be quite difficult to tell. It is in these moments that it would be my honor to listen to your story with the hope that it enables you to experience empathy, acceptance, and understanding. To facilitate this, I use a person-centered approach combined with other techniques that can help you focus on emotional wellness and develop solutions in areas of concern to you.
(336) 438-8421 View (336) 438-8421
Photo of Lakia Branch-Rollins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pfafftown, NC
Lakia Branch-Rollins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Our lives do NOT get better by chance or happenstance, they get better by CHOICE! Congratulations on making a huge choice towards a more meaningful change in your life. We all come from various backgrounds, experiences, and will all face difficulties at one point in our lives. It's at that point, that we desire more, something different, a shift that will assist us from where we are, to where we desire to be, and I am here to assist you on that journey.
Our lives do NOT get better by chance or happenstance, they get better by CHOICE! Congratulations on making a huge choice towards a more meaningful change in your life. We all come from various backgrounds, experiences, and will all face difficulties at one point in our lives. It's at that point, that we desire more, something different, a shift that will assist us from where we are, to where we desire to be, and I am here to assist you on that journey.
(336) 360-5813 View (336) 360-5813
Photo of Salem Counseling & Consulting KAP in Pfafftown, NC
Salem Counseling & Consulting KAP
LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Now accepting new clients for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) . KAP can bring relief from trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, & OCD. Effects post-treatment with KAP can include reduced depression & anxiety, an increased feeling of connectedness, and reduction in stress responses that often trigger mental and emotional discomfort. KAP is shown to reduce the frequency of treatments and create longer lasting effects by taking advantage of the neural plasticity induced by ketamine to create a canvas for change and relief. Here at Salem, we are proud to offer KAP for patients of Restorting Wellness Solutions in Winston-Salem
Now accepting new clients for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) . KAP can bring relief from trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, & OCD. Effects post-treatment with KAP can include reduced depression & anxiety, an increased feeling of connectedness, and reduction in stress responses that often trigger mental and emotional discomfort. KAP is shown to reduce the frequency of treatments and create longer lasting effects by taking advantage of the neural plasticity induced by ketamine to create a canvas for change and relief. Here at Salem, we are proud to offer KAP for patients of Restorting Wellness Solutions in Winston-Salem
(980) 268-2745 View (980) 268-2745
Photo of William (Stacey) Steck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pfafftown, NC
William (Stacey) Steck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
We may not like to admit it, but sometimes we just need help in sorting out our thoughts, feelings, relationships, and problems. Hey, if you could have "fixed" yourself on your own, you wouldn't be here looking for a therapist! With more than twenty years of experience as a pastor to complement my practice of therapy, I have seen how individuals of all ages, couples of all types, and families of all shapes and sizes both endure and solve problems, as well as how just a little effort can go a long way. The important thing for you to know is that there's nothing inherently wrong with you; you just need a little help working it out.
We may not like to admit it, but sometimes we just need help in sorting out our thoughts, feelings, relationships, and problems. Hey, if you could have "fixed" yourself on your own, you wouldn't be here looking for a therapist! With more than twenty years of experience as a pastor to complement my practice of therapy, I have seen how individuals of all ages, couples of all types, and families of all shapes and sizes both endure and solve problems, as well as how just a little effort can go a long way. The important thing for you to know is that there's nothing inherently wrong with you; you just need a little help working it out.
(704) 327-0562 View (704) 327-0562
Photo of E. Brooke Barnard, Counselor in Pfafftown, NC
E. Brooke Barnard
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I have an avid interest in helping children, adults, and families dealing with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental and/or physical challenges, and Academically Gifted and Talented. I also specialize in supporting clients and families coping with chronic and/or serious illnesses. Siblings, who are often overlooked in these families, are of special concern to me. Depression, anxiety and grief and loss issues due to death, divorce and other life changes hold a special interest for me as well.
I have an avid interest in helping children, adults, and families dealing with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental and/or physical challenges, and Academically Gifted and Talented. I also specialize in supporting clients and families coping with chronic and/or serious illnesses. Siblings, who are often overlooked in these families, are of special concern to me. Depression, anxiety and grief and loss issues due to death, divorce and other life changes hold a special interest for me as well.
(336) 790-4638 View (336) 790-4638
Photo of Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Pfafftown, NC
Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCASA, CEO
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
(336) 502-8218 View (336) 502-8218
Photo of Peggy Hustad, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Pfafftown, NC
Peggy Hustad
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, M Ed, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101  (Online Only)
As a health coach and counselor, I focus on all areas of health, including emotional, intellectual, physical, and financial health. We can work together to add more whole food, plant-based nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and positive social connections to your life, as recommended by the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. And we can build resilience and resolve challenges with a greater sense of hope and meaning.
As a health coach and counselor, I focus on all areas of health, including emotional, intellectual, physical, and financial health. We can work together to add more whole food, plant-based nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and positive social connections to your life, as recommended by the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. And we can build resilience and resolve challenges with a greater sense of hope and meaning.
(828) 414-2538 View (828) 414-2538
Photo of Sarah Carver, Counselor in Pfafftown, NC
Sarah Carver
Counselor, MDiv, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106  (Online Only)
Therapy and counseling move at the speed of trust. I believe this phrase captures the core of the therapeutic relationship: meeting clients where they are and moving at their pace. I will listen non-judgmentally and compassionately to what is said and not said by my clients. I provide a safe and welcoming space that fosters trust, where clients feel accepted, heard, understood, and respected. In this collaborative and supportive environment, we can work together to achieve your goals while processing emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and experiences.
Therapy and counseling move at the speed of trust. I believe this phrase captures the core of the therapeutic relationship: meeting clients where they are and moving at their pace. I will listen non-judgmentally and compassionately to what is said and not said by my clients. I provide a safe and welcoming space that fosters trust, where clients feel accepted, heard, understood, and respected. In this collaborative and supportive environment, we can work together to achieve your goals while processing emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and experiences.
(336) 203-9421 View (336) 203-9421
Photo of Tanya Gunter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pfafftown, NC
Tanya Gunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Waitlist for new clients
The therapeutic process is an opportunity to to address problematic issues in a safe, nurturing environment that will encourage growth toward healing, self-awareness, coping and wellness. I specialize in counseling women, men and adolescents who strive to change unhealthy patterns and learn new ways of becoming successful, happy and peaceful. If you find yourself thinking, "Life shouldn't be this hard," I can help you examine the disconnect you feel and and turn it into knowledge that works for you. Choices rather than limitations; power over powerlessness.
The therapeutic process is an opportunity to to address problematic issues in a safe, nurturing environment that will encourage growth toward healing, self-awareness, coping and wellness. I specialize in counseling women, men and adolescents who strive to change unhealthy patterns and learn new ways of becoming successful, happy and peaceful. If you find yourself thinking, "Life shouldn't be this hard," I can help you examine the disconnect you feel and and turn it into knowledge that works for you. Choices rather than limitations; power over powerlessness.
(336) 949-6149 View (336) 949-6149
Photo of Alexa Henson, Counselor in Pfafftown, NC
Alexa Henson
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Not accepting new clients
My specialized training revolves around life adjustments, and transitions that come with questioning our purpose in life because of situational crisis such as a disability or chronic illness, and/or traumatic loss.
As a therapist, I am comfortable working with individuals from diverse cultures, lifestyles, and religious/spiritual beliefs, and affirm LGBTQIA+. Therapy can help you discover inner resources that align with your values and goals, and open you to a new way of being, bringing balance to your life. Together, we can navigate and explore what works best for YOU. As part of your healing process, I will meet you with compassion and acceptance, offering a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment, allowing you to explore any obstacles or difficulties that you are facing.
My specialized training revolves around life adjustments, and transitions that come with questioning our purpose in life because of situational crisis such as a disability or chronic illness, and/or traumatic loss.
As a therapist, I am comfortable working with individuals from diverse cultures, lifestyles, and religious/spiritual beliefs, and affirm LGBTQIA+. Therapy can help you discover inner resources that align with your values and goals, and open you to a new way of being, bringing balance to your life. Together, we can navigate and explore what works best for YOU. As part of your healing process, I will meet you with compassion and acceptance, offering a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment, allowing you to explore any obstacles or difficulties that you are facing.
(336) 360-6942 View (336) 360-6942
Photo of Rebecca Lowry, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Pfafftown, NC
Rebecca Lowry
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, BCC, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
Clemmons, NC 27012
Not accepting new clients
Please Note: I am not accepting new clients at this time. Are you facing challenges? Are you ready to make some significant changes in your life? I would be honored to come alongside you as you explore your concerns and consider your options. I believe that you are fearfully and wonderfully made and that you have an inner strength that will become evident as we journey together. You have a story that is unique and I want to hear it. My wish for you is that you will achieve an optimal level of wellness in all areas of your life - emotionally, physically and spiritually.
Please Note: I am not accepting new clients at this time. Are you facing challenges? Are you ready to make some significant changes in your life? I would be honored to come alongside you as you explore your concerns and consider your options. I believe that you are fearfully and wonderfully made and that you have an inner strength that will become evident as we journey together. You have a story that is unique and I want to hear it. My wish for you is that you will achieve an optimal level of wellness in all areas of your life - emotionally, physically and spiritually.
(336) 939-6929 View (336) 939-6929
Photo of Frances F Gordon, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Pfafftown, NC
Frances F Gordon
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCAS, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27104
Not accepting new clients
I see adults for individual and couples therapy. I believe it is important for you to decide what your needs and goals are as you are the expert on who you are. My job is to provide a safe, nurturing, and confidential environment for you to explore your issues. My training is in depressive/anxiety disorders, grief and loss, parenting issues, victimization issues (domestic violence, rape, issues related to childhood/adult trauma), life transitions, communication skills, substance misuse, co-dependency, adult children of alcoholics issues, sexual abuse, and relationships issues. I am also a registered yoga teacher, RYT-500.
I see adults for individual and couples therapy. I believe it is important for you to decide what your needs and goals are as you are the expert on who you are. My job is to provide a safe, nurturing, and confidential environment for you to explore your issues. My training is in depressive/anxiety disorders, grief and loss, parenting issues, victimization issues (domestic violence, rape, issues related to childhood/adult trauma), life transitions, communication skills, substance misuse, co-dependency, adult children of alcoholics issues, sexual abuse, and relationships issues. I am also a registered yoga teacher, RYT-500.
(336) 525-1954 View (336) 525-1954
Photo of Britta Marie Starke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pfafftown, NC
Britta Marie Starke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27199
Not accepting new clients
Welcome and congratulations on choosing to embark on a different journey!! I have spent 25 yrs getting to know people of all ages: 6 - 80 years young. I find my passion lies with ages 17 and older. There seems to be a common struggle with finding a sense of meaning and purpose, or the loss of such, while juggling the demands of school, career, relationships and society. The more we lose ourselves, along the way, the more we lose the ability to cope with challenges in a healthy way. I believe in walking along side individuals in the exploration of what is missing or maybe not yet found! Are you ready to get started?
Welcome and congratulations on choosing to embark on a different journey!! I have spent 25 yrs getting to know people of all ages: 6 - 80 years young. I find my passion lies with ages 17 and older. There seems to be a common struggle with finding a sense of meaning and purpose, or the loss of such, while juggling the demands of school, career, relationships and society. The more we lose ourselves, along the way, the more we lose the ability to cope with challenges in a healthy way. I believe in walking along side individuals in the exploration of what is missing or maybe not yet found! Are you ready to get started?
(984) 237-3053 View (984) 237-3053

Online Therapists

Chayah Stoneberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, MS, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Butner, NC 27509
When emotional pain, anxiety, and fear undermine confidence that life will ever be free of suffering, remember that the solutions to life's problems are within reach.
If you are going through difficult times and feeling emotionally distressed without enough support, know that you are not alone. Having the help of a skilled and confidential therapist can help you regain a sense of balance and well-being. As a therapist, my aim is to support you on your journey to becoming your best self. If you are reading this, know that you have already taken the first step towards healing. Let's work together towards your goals and finding new meaning in your path forward.
When emotional pain, anxiety, and fear undermine confidence that life will ever be free of suffering, remember that the solutions to life's problems are within reach.
If you are going through difficult times and feeling emotionally distressed without enough support, know that you are not alone. Having the help of a skilled and confidential therapist can help you regain a sense of balance and well-being. As a therapist, my aim is to support you on your journey to becoming your best self. If you are reading this, know that you have already taken the first step towards healing. Let's work together towards your goals and finding new meaning in your path forward.
(803) 676-1871 View (803) 676-1871
Photo of Mindy Brodsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pfafftown, NC
Mindy Brodsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LGSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Waitlist for new clients
Limited Availability - I specialize in trauma-informed, strengths-based counseling with a passion for integrative health and healing. I serve diverse adolescent and adult populations, including those impacted by cancer and other chronic illness, as well as those who struggle with anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and other life transitions such as prenatal/postpartum support.
Limited Availability - I specialize in trauma-informed, strengths-based counseling with a passion for integrative health and healing. I serve diverse adolescent and adult populations, including those impacted by cancer and other chronic illness, as well as those who struggle with anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and other life transitions such as prenatal/postpartum support.
(984) 464-7277 View (984) 464-7277
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.