Photo of Hall Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pittsboro, NC
Hall Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
Evening appointments until 10pm with online scheduling at hallfamilytherapy.com Dr Hall has been practicing for over 22 years in many different contexts all over the country, and has been married 23 years with 5 kids. Dr Hall can help you with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and deep existential questions. Couples benefit from using the research based Gottman method with Dr. Hall and have permanent results. With experience as a professor, supervisor and therapist in community health working with even the most severe disorders like bipolar, schizophrenia, severe depression, substance abuse/dependency, self-harming, and suicidality.
Evening appointments until 10pm with online scheduling at hallfamilytherapy.com Dr Hall has been practicing for over 22 years in many different contexts all over the country, and has been married 23 years with 5 kids. Dr Hall can help you with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and deep existential questions. Couples benefit from using the research based Gottman method with Dr. Hall and have permanent results. With experience as a professor, supervisor and therapist in community health working with even the most severe disorders like bipolar, schizophrenia, severe depression, substance abuse/dependency, self-harming, and suicidality.
(919) 794-3113 View (919) 794-3113
Photo of Sharon Lynn Sheppard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pittsboro, NC
Sharon Lynn Sheppard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
Every day I have the privilege of working with the bravest folks on the planet & none of you know it when you first walk in the door. You often feel defeated, overwhelmed & ashamed that you aren't able to "get over" your sexual, physical or emotional trauma. It's also common for you to have a nagging, chronic sense that something is just not right, an unhappiness; feeling unloved or unlovable, disconnected from friends and family, having lost a sense of purpose or direction. Without knowing that these symptoms may be telling us that a past trauma--long ago
Every day I have the privilege of working with the bravest folks on the planet & none of you know it when you first walk in the door. You often feel defeated, overwhelmed & ashamed that you aren't able to "get over" your sexual, physical or emotional trauma. It's also common for you to have a nagging, chronic sense that something is just not right, an unhappiness; feeling unloved or unlovable, disconnected from friends and family, having lost a sense of purpose or direction. Without knowing that these symptoms may be telling us that a past trauma--long ago
(919) 373-3355 View (919) 373-3355

Online Therapists

Photo of Victoria Michelle Welch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsboro, NC
Victoria Michelle Welch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPTT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
I know what it's like to search for a therapist who understands attachment issues, chronic illness and caregiver stress and for ones who can incorporate faith in their practice.
Parenting a child with special needs or an adopted child who has experienced trauma requires extraordinary strength. Care-giving for aging parents presents similar demands that intensify our need for a listening ear and access to resources. If you are in the midst of the tension between managing a child or parent's medical and emotional needs while equipping him/her to independently provide as much self-care as possible, you could use some serious encouragement. The internal conflict that arises as you meet -- and fail to meet -- the parenting/care-giving challenge(s) is an experience not meant to be faced alone.
I know what it's like to search for a therapist who understands attachment issues, chronic illness and caregiver stress and for ones who can incorporate faith in their practice.
Parenting a child with special needs or an adopted child who has experienced trauma requires extraordinary strength. Care-giving for aging parents presents similar demands that intensify our need for a listening ear and access to resources. If you are in the midst of the tension between managing a child or parent's medical and emotional needs while equipping him/her to independently provide as much self-care as possible, you could use some serious encouragement. The internal conflict that arises as you meet -- and fail to meet -- the parenting/care-giving challenge(s) is an experience not meant to be faced alone.
(919) 897-7508 View (919) 897-7508
Photo of Pat Holsclaw, Counselor in Pittsboro, 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 Karen O Harmon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pittsboro, NC
Karen O Harmon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I work with individual, couples or families to get to the root of their pain.
Has your body taken over your mind? Are panic attacks or weird physical symptoms hijacking your sense of safety? You are taking the first important step! Symptoms are trying to tell you something. Do you feel as though you could use some help being able to express yourself or make yourself understood? Would you like to feel as though you have some control over the way your body reacts to situations that seem out of your control? I can help you find the answers to these questions because I believe you deserve to live a beautiful life and develop greater resilience when life seems too hard. I see you. Maybe I can help you process it?
I work with individual, couples or families to get to the root of their pain.
Has your body taken over your mind? Are panic attacks or weird physical symptoms hijacking your sense of safety? You are taking the first important step! Symptoms are trying to tell you something. Do you feel as though you could use some help being able to express yourself or make yourself understood? Would you like to feel as though you have some control over the way your body reacts to situations that seem out of your control? I can help you find the answers to these questions because I believe you deserve to live a beautiful life and develop greater resilience when life seems too hard. I see you. Maybe I can help you process it?
(919) 858-2528 View (919) 858-2528
Photo of Clete L deller, Counselor in Pittsboro, NC
Clete L deller
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lewisville, NC 27023  (Online Only)
We all want more Peace and less Pain in our live. The symptoms of trauma can prevent you from having the life you want, destroy your ability to have intimate and lasting relationships, and ultimately, steal your Peace. Peace or Pain Therapy will not only help you address trauma, but together we will create a concrete plan, for a Meaningful Values-Base Life.
We all want more Peace and less Pain in our live. The symptoms of trauma can prevent you from having the life you want, destroy your ability to have intimate and lasting relationships, and ultimately, steal your Peace. Peace or Pain Therapy will not only help you address trauma, but together we will create a concrete plan, for a Meaningful Values-Base Life.
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Photo of New Way Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsboro, NC
New Way Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knightdale, NC 27545
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Often times life can be challenging and many of us are not prepared to deal with those issues and find ourselves in an unfamiliar place. As a therapist, I am dedicated to providing individualized care to meet your needs. I've worked with children and adults in the mental health field for over 16 years and individuals with addiction for over 8 years. I've treated individuals with various mental health and substance use disorders. My experience enables me to offer effective, individualized outpatient psychological care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges and addiction.
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Often times life can be challenging and many of us are not prepared to deal with those issues and find ourselves in an unfamiliar place. As a therapist, I am dedicated to providing individualized care to meet your needs. I've worked with children and adults in the mental health field for over 16 years and individuals with addiction for over 8 years. I've treated individuals with various mental health and substance use disorders. My experience enables me to offer effective, individualized outpatient psychological care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges and addiction.
(919) 289-8267 View (919) 289-8267
Photo of Tiffany Rogers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsboro, 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 Becky Shaffer, Counselor in Pittsboro, 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 Cara Jones Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Pittsboro, NC
Cara Jones Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, BCPCC
Verified Verified
Mebane, NC 27302
Do you need help thriving to function at your best or improve your relationships? Are peace and joy missing in this season of life? I help driven women relieve the suffering that comes from living life busy, but unfulfilled. Suffering that feels like anxiety, overwhelm, depression, emptiness, relationship conflict and loneliness, grief, spiritual struggles or physical pain. Learn how to reconnect with what's most important to you, feel alive, and accept yourself and others. Embrace the good offered from transitions you're in or forge new possibilities for a meaningful, joyful and internally peaceful life.
Do you need help thriving to function at your best or improve your relationships? Are peace and joy missing in this season of life? I help driven women relieve the suffering that comes from living life busy, but unfulfilled. Suffering that feels like anxiety, overwhelm, depression, emptiness, relationship conflict and loneliness, grief, spiritual struggles or physical pain. Learn how to reconnect with what's most important to you, feel alive, and accept yourself and others. Embrace the good offered from transitions you're in or forge new possibilities for a meaningful, joyful and internally peaceful life.
(919) 504-5736 View (919) 504-5736
Photo of Kristin Nakhla, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsboro, NC
Kristin Nakhla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
I create a casual, down-to-earth space for women to process anxiety, depression, grief, and chronic pain/illness in light of their faith.
Your faith has lost its spark. You want to believe, but right now it’s hard. You want to feel close to God, yet everything you do makes you feel farther and farther from Him, leaving you feeling defeated and hopeless. The questions. The doubts. They’re LOUD. You remember a time when your faith was strong. But now? Now the suffering you experience has you questioning everything you thought you knew. Maybe church abuse is real for you. Whether the leadership of the church or the people of the church. It’s brutally painful. “If that’s what a Christian is,” you think…"I’m out.” But in your heart, you don’t want to abandon ship.
I create a casual, down-to-earth space for women to process anxiety, depression, grief, and chronic pain/illness in light of their faith.
Your faith has lost its spark. You want to believe, but right now it’s hard. You want to feel close to God, yet everything you do makes you feel farther and farther from Him, leaving you feeling defeated and hopeless. The questions. The doubts. They’re LOUD. You remember a time when your faith was strong. But now? Now the suffering you experience has you questioning everything you thought you knew. Maybe church abuse is real for you. Whether the leadership of the church or the people of the church. It’s brutally painful. “If that’s what a Christian is,” you think…"I’m out.” But in your heart, you don’t want to abandon ship.
(984) 229-8195 View (984) 229-8195
Photo of Barbara Jean Lowe, Psychologist in Pittsboro, NC
Barbara Jean Lowe
Psychologist, PhD, LP, BCC, SEP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Are you hurting, frustrated, or feel stuck? I honor your courage to seek wholeness & growth. I know you want relief. Enduring change through therapy can happen for you. Trauma, relationship challenges, family struggles & internal pain can be shifted! I welcome you into a space of honor, hope, safety, & power to change. I partner w/ you to achieve your goals for skillful living, belonging, & wholeness. I artfully employ therapeutic & scientific techniques that bring wellness to the heart & mind (SE, DBT, ART, CBT, IFS, EMDR, Gottman, EFT). Ages 5-75. I also offer faith integration upon request. I offer hourly sessions & intensives.
Are you hurting, frustrated, or feel stuck? I honor your courage to seek wholeness & growth. I know you want relief. Enduring change through therapy can happen for you. Trauma, relationship challenges, family struggles & internal pain can be shifted! I welcome you into a space of honor, hope, safety, & power to change. I partner w/ you to achieve your goals for skillful living, belonging, & wholeness. I artfully employ therapeutic & scientific techniques that bring wellness to the heart & mind (SE, DBT, ART, CBT, IFS, EMDR, Gottman, EFT). Ages 5-75. I also offer faith integration upon request. I offer hourly sessions & intensives.
(919) 585-1575 View (919) 585-1575
Photo of Kayla Patterson, Counselor in Pittsboro, NC
Kayla Patterson
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults experiencing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, chronic pain, relationship troubles, or struggling with spirituality/faith concerns (i.
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults experiencing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, chronic pain, relationship troubles, or struggling with spirituality/faith concerns (i.
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
(704) 389-5748 View (704) 389-5748
Photo of Eastern Trauma & Recovery, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Pittsboro, NC
Eastern Trauma & Recovery
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS-A, Trauma, CCTS-S, CFTP, Crisis
Verified Verified
Spring Hope, NC 27882
Needed: 1099 counselor. Contact if interested. Please leave me a message so that I can return your call ASAP. Thank you. No one as a child stated, "I want to abuse drugs" or "I want to experience trauma" (ie car wreck, rape). Life happens and sometimes it becomes out of control. Understanding trauma and/or addiction, or even them together, can help an individual to feel as though they are being heard. It is my honor to help you walk through your pain and begin to live life once more without the heaviness of the past.
Needed: 1099 counselor. Contact if interested. Please leave me a message so that I can return your call ASAP. Thank you. No one as a child stated, "I want to abuse drugs" or "I want to experience trauma" (ie car wreck, rape). Life happens and sometimes it becomes out of control. Understanding trauma and/or addiction, or even them together, can help an individual to feel as though they are being heard. It is my honor to help you walk through your pain and begin to live life once more without the heaviness of the past.
(252) 477-7662 View (252) 477-7662
Photo of Christine L Jeffreys, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Pittsboro, NC
Christine L Jeffreys
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27616  (Online Only)
I have a heart for serving adults, adolescents, couples and families dealing with significant life issues such as the death of a loved one, chronic illness or pain, issues stemming from past trauma, parenting children with special needs, or managing chronic mental health conditions such as ADHD, anxiety and depression. I believe that it is helpful when a therapist has a personal understanding of the areas in which they specialize. I have personal experience with all of these circumstances, allowing me a level of empathy and insight that may not be possible otherwise.
I have a heart for serving adults, adolescents, couples and families dealing with significant life issues such as the death of a loved one, chronic illness or pain, issues stemming from past trauma, parenting children with special needs, or managing chronic mental health conditions such as ADHD, anxiety and depression. I believe that it is helpful when a therapist has a personal understanding of the areas in which they specialize. I have personal experience with all of these circumstances, allowing me a level of empathy and insight that may not be possible otherwise.
(984) 203-6996 View (984) 203-6996
Photo of Daniel Pak, Counselor in Pittsboro, NC
Daniel Pak
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
People commonly say life is a journey full of ups and downs, but sometimes we feel our journey is only going down. We are left feeling lost, trapped, and in pain. Sadly, we do not always have the help or the resources to get through these moments due to various circumstances in our life. Therapy is not a fix-all solution, but it can be the catalyst to taking steps out of what can feel like a bottomless pit and give us the strength to face our problems. I hope that I can be a steadfast presence for support through whatever you are experiencing and help you find your path through your darkest of valleys.
People commonly say life is a journey full of ups and downs, but sometimes we feel our journey is only going down. We are left feeling lost, trapped, and in pain. Sadly, we do not always have the help or the resources to get through these moments due to various circumstances in our life. Therapy is not a fix-all solution, but it can be the catalyst to taking steps out of what can feel like a bottomless pit and give us the strength to face our problems. I hope that I can be a steadfast presence for support through whatever you are experiencing and help you find your path through your darkest of valleys.
(704) 703-5458 View (704) 703-5458
Photo of Christine Wisdom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsboro, NC
Christine Wisdom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
I have a special interest in exploring the connection between the emotional, physical and spiritual dimensions as they relate to pain and illness.
I work with individuals and couples by listening to their stories, helping them to find meaning out of life's experiences and working together to rewrite the stories of their lives. I journey with individuals to heal past wounds and move towards wholeness. I have worked with women in life transitions to find a greater sense of self and with men with past struggles with addiction to discover a new direction for their lives. I work with men, women and teens who struggle with anxiety, depression and family conflict to work on setting boundaries with others and caring for the self.
I have a special interest in exploring the connection between the emotional, physical and spiritual dimensions as they relate to pain and illness.
I work with individuals and couples by listening to their stories, helping them to find meaning out of life's experiences and working together to rewrite the stories of their lives. I journey with individuals to heal past wounds and move towards wholeness. I have worked with women in life transitions to find a greater sense of self and with men with past struggles with addiction to discover a new direction for their lives. I work with men, women and teens who struggle with anxiety, depression and family conflict to work on setting boundaries with others and caring for the self.
(704) 276-6109 View (704) 276-6109
Photo of Kerrie Walters, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsboro, NC
Kerrie Walters
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA, CEAP
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in chronic illness, pain and autoimmune, as well as woman's issues.
My goal as an integrated clinician is to treat the whole person. When you feel like nobody knows what you’re going through, sharing your feelings with someone who truly gets it can make all the difference. I’ll help you make sense of your experiences and feel more optimistic about the future.
I specialize in chronic illness, pain and autoimmune, as well as woman's issues.
My goal as an integrated clinician is to treat the whole person. When you feel like nobody knows what you’re going through, sharing your feelings with someone who truly gets it can make all the difference. I’ll help you make sense of your experiences and feel more optimistic about the future.
(984) 249-3156 View (984) 249-3156
Photo of Char Boyette, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Pittsboro, NC
Char Boyette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, EMDRIA, CCS, MDiv, JD
Verified Verified
Winterville, NC 28590
I am a person on the journey of wellness myself so I can empathize with the pain of feeling isolated and misunderstood, stuck in old patterns and unable to break unhelpful cycles of abuse, trauma, poverty, addictions, and multiple mental health challenges.
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
I am a person on the journey of wellness myself so I can empathize with the pain of feeling isolated and misunderstood, stuck in old patterns and unable to break unhelpful cycles of abuse, trauma, poverty, addictions, and multiple mental health challenges.
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
(910) 634-6171 View (910) 634-6171
Photo of YOU-Turn Counseling, PLLC in Pittsboro, NC
YOU-Turn Counseling, PLLC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
YOU-Turn Counseling is here to help YOU! Our practice has proudly served the community for ten years. Our counselors have extensive training and experience to help treat individuals of all ages: adults, teens, and children. We offer online counseling or in person sessions. Our professional staff are all licensed and excel in treating a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and parenting struggles. We conduct ADHD evaluations. Our counselors are genuine in cultivating authentic therapeutic connections to help promote change. Let us help YOU to be your best version of self!
YOU-Turn Counseling is here to help YOU! Our practice has proudly served the community for ten years. Our counselors have extensive training and experience to help treat individuals of all ages: adults, teens, and children. We offer online counseling or in person sessions. Our professional staff are all licensed and excel in treating a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and parenting struggles. We conduct ADHD evaluations. Our counselors are genuine in cultivating authentic therapeutic connections to help promote change. Let us help YOU to be your best version of self!
(919) 879-2292 View (919) 879-2292
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.