Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Lisa Lavelle Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27602  (Online Only)
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
(828) 360-8820 View (828) 360-8820
Photo of Anju Verma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Anju Verma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker /Therapist (LCSW) Board Certified in NC. I have over 20 years of experience in the fields of Mental Health and Substance Abuse. I provide Individual and Family Counseling and work with all populations such as children, adolescents and adults. My goal as a therapist is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment in which my clients can explore their emotional needs, discuss behavioral issues and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and strengths based approach in my work with individuals and families
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker /Therapist (LCSW) Board Certified in NC. I have over 20 years of experience in the fields of Mental Health and Substance Abuse. I provide Individual and Family Counseling and work with all populations such as children, adolescents and adults. My goal as a therapist is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment in which my clients can explore their emotional needs, discuss behavioral issues and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and strengths based approach in my work with individuals and families
(919) 415-0299 View (919) 415-0299
Photo of Vincent M Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Vincent M Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, FBMHP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27603  (Online Only)
**Accepting New Clients** Life can be overwhelming, confusing, disappointing, and painful. Life can be very fast-paced, and it can be very difficult in knowing how to keep up. If you’re feeling depressed, or having difficulty with friendships/relationships/family/job, therapy can help. Are the experiences earlier in your life (childhood and/or early adulthood) impacting you now? Is it difficult to make healthy choices? Do you have anger issues? Do you struggle to share emotions that are natural and more vulnerable? Therapy can aid a person in making healthy choices, and improve your daily decision-making.
**Accepting New Clients** Life can be overwhelming, confusing, disappointing, and painful. Life can be very fast-paced, and it can be very difficult in knowing how to keep up. If you’re feeling depressed, or having difficulty with friendships/relationships/family/job, therapy can help. Are the experiences earlier in your life (childhood and/or early adulthood) impacting you now? Is it difficult to make healthy choices? Do you have anger issues? Do you struggle to share emotions that are natural and more vulnerable? Therapy can aid a person in making healthy choices, and improve your daily decision-making.
(919) 944-8293 View (919) 944-8293
Photo of Transcending Limits Counseling Svcs Renee Hopkins, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Transcending Limits Counseling Svcs Renee Hopkins
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612
Challenges come in all different walks of life, shapes, and sizes. It's the universal one thing everyone must deal with. As a therapist, I try to help my clients develop the skills to be able to deal with whatever challenges they may face with courage, dignity, and the strength to know that eventually they will overcome these challenges. For many these challenges include debilitating depression, intense anxiety, fractured communication skills, trauma, substance abuse, or any combination of those. Although admitting the need and asking for help may be hard, the skills developed in therapy can definitely be worth it.
Challenges come in all different walks of life, shapes, and sizes. It's the universal one thing everyone must deal with. As a therapist, I try to help my clients develop the skills to be able to deal with whatever challenges they may face with courage, dignity, and the strength to know that eventually they will overcome these challenges. For many these challenges include debilitating depression, intense anxiety, fractured communication skills, trauma, substance abuse, or any combination of those. Although admitting the need and asking for help may be hard, the skills developed in therapy can definitely be worth it.
(919) 276-8905 View (919) 276-8905
Photo of Perkins Counseling & Psychological Services, PLLC, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Perkins Counseling & Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27616
Perkins Counseling & Psychological Services is a large group practice that serves Wake Forest, North Raleigh, and counties north of Raleigh. The clinicians working at our office are experienced in all avenues of mental health and psychological treatment and testing. We offer comprehensive psychological services across the lifespan - from preschoolers to older adults. Because we treat all ages and all types of problems, we often see multiple family members under the same roof making it convenient to receive help.
Perkins Counseling & Psychological Services is a large group practice that serves Wake Forest, North Raleigh, and counties north of Raleigh. The clinicians working at our office are experienced in all avenues of mental health and psychological treatment and testing. We offer comprehensive psychological services across the lifespan - from preschoolers to older adults. Because we treat all ages and all types of problems, we often see multiple family members under the same roof making it convenient to receive help.
(919) 680-1588 View (919) 680-1588
Photo of Haymount Institute for Psychological Services, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Haymount Institute for Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
The power to make positive changes is within us all. The goal of holistic wellness is to "change the lens" and give a healthier perspective for a peaceful and more content life. Our intention is to provide a confidential, professional and supportive environment in which individuals and families can identify problem areas, explore what prevents the problem from being solved, and help you develop and learn skills that can enhance your quality of life.
The power to make positive changes is within us all. The goal of holistic wellness is to "change the lens" and give a healthier perspective for a peaceful and more content life. Our intention is to provide a confidential, professional and supportive environment in which individuals and families can identify problem areas, explore what prevents the problem from being solved, and help you develop and learn skills that can enhance your quality of life.
(910) 719-3087 View (910) 719-3087
Photo of Community Connections Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Community Connections Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Accepting New Referrals for Applied Behavioral Analysis Therapy (ABA Therapy). No waiting List ! Day and Evening appointments available. Services provided in school or in home. Certified Tricare Preferred Network Provider.
Accepting New Referrals for Applied Behavioral Analysis Therapy (ABA Therapy). No waiting List ! Day and Evening appointments available. Services provided in school or in home. Certified Tricare Preferred Network Provider.
(919) 267-2924 View (919) 267-2924
Photo of Integrity Counseling & Wellness, PLLC in Raleigh, NC
Integrity Counseling & Wellness, PLLC
LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27606
Accepting New Patients Immediately! Our counselors utilize an integrative approach to therapy and strive to create a trusting and open counseling environment. We are experienced in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and many other concerns. Your comfort with self-expression is a top priority, so you will find our counselors are inviting and non-judgmental with those whom they serve. We enjoy providing new insight and guidance and prove to be individualized in meeting each client's needs.
Accepting New Patients Immediately! Our counselors utilize an integrative approach to therapy and strive to create a trusting and open counseling environment. We are experienced in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and many other concerns. Your comfort with self-expression is a top priority, so you will find our counselors are inviting and non-judgmental with those whom they serve. We enjoy providing new insight and guidance and prove to be individualized in meeting each client's needs.
(919) 372-0850 View (919) 372-0850
Photo of Kelli Underwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Kelli Underwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I have been successfully treating children, teenagers, adults, couples and families since 1996. I offer a diverse menu of treatment options, from concrete skills to deep healing techniques to attain sustainable change. Viewing you holistically in all the contexts of your life, by recognizing your vulnerabilities while building on your strengths, is essential. I create a validating environment and an authentic, collaborative relationship. I am honest, empathic and an effective teacher. I will support you and challenge you to grow in the direction you desire.
I have been successfully treating children, teenagers, adults, couples and families since 1996. I offer a diverse menu of treatment options, from concrete skills to deep healing techniques to attain sustainable change. Viewing you holistically in all the contexts of your life, by recognizing your vulnerabilities while building on your strengths, is essential. I create a validating environment and an authentic, collaborative relationship. I am honest, empathic and an effective teacher. I will support you and challenge you to grow in the direction you desire.
(919) 582-7461 View (919) 582-7461
Photo of Annie Segrest, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Annie Segrest
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
I offer individual, couples and family therapy, and have extensive experience working within the LGBTQIA+ community. I believe being seen, heard and affirmed are integral in the healing process and center clients accordingly. I work with grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges and changes, un-partnered parenting and coparenting, family crisis and early childhood issues. I draw from Trauma-Informed practices and Evidence-Based techniques including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Therapy and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
I offer individual, couples and family therapy, and have extensive experience working within the LGBTQIA+ community. I believe being seen, heard and affirmed are integral in the healing process and center clients accordingly. I work with grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges and changes, un-partnered parenting and coparenting, family crisis and early childhood issues. I draw from Trauma-Informed practices and Evidence-Based techniques including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Therapy and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
(919) 583-6051 View (919) 583-6051
Photo of Georgia T Sgouros, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Georgia T Sgouros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612
Not accepting new clients
The decision to seek psychotherapy can be one of the most courageous and life-changing things you can do. If you are in emotional pain, struggle with troubling relationship patterns, or are experiencing a difficult life transition, I would like to help. I strive to provide a nurturing, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where we work together to understand the underlying roots of painful patterns and problematic behaviors that may be keeping you feeling stuck and frustrated. It is through this process of self-examination and increased understanding that growth, healing, and change can occur, which can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life.
The decision to seek psychotherapy can be one of the most courageous and life-changing things you can do. If you are in emotional pain, struggle with troubling relationship patterns, or are experiencing a difficult life transition, I would like to help. I strive to provide a nurturing, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where we work together to understand the underlying roots of painful patterns and problematic behaviors that may be keeping you feeling stuck and frustrated. It is through this process of self-examination and increased understanding that growth, healing, and change can occur, which can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life.
(919) 261-3503 View (919) 261-3503
Photo of Stephanie Ann Kraczkowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Stephanie Ann Kraczkowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCMHC, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27616  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel like you are just staying above water? I can help! Counseling is appropriate for everyone at one time or another. Life throws us all curveballs. It's how we deal with them that makes the difference in our abilities to maintain a balance of wellness. No one gets out of this life unscathed. Sometimes we get stuck and need a little guidance to get back to our lives. It's vital that we resolve trauma because mental and emotional challenges can affect our physical and spiritual health and vice versa. There is no reason to ever feel shame for seeking solutions.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel like you are just staying above water? I can help! Counseling is appropriate for everyone at one time or another. Life throws us all curveballs. It's how we deal with them that makes the difference in our abilities to maintain a balance of wellness. No one gets out of this life unscathed. Sometimes we get stuck and need a little guidance to get back to our lives. It's vital that we resolve trauma because mental and emotional challenges can affect our physical and spiritual health and vice versa. There is no reason to ever feel shame for seeking solutions.
(334) 781-5385 View (334) 781-5385

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Robyn Claar, Ph.D., PLLC, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Robyn Claar, Ph.D., PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, teenagers and young adults struggling with anxiety, stress, OCD, and depression. I also have extensive expertise and training working with children and families coping with chronic medical conditions and pain, such as stomach aches, headaches, and food allergies. In addition, I conduct thorough psychoeducational assessments, ADHD evaluations, and early kindergarten entry assessments to help children, teenagers, and college students achieve academic success.
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, teenagers and young adults struggling with anxiety, stress, OCD, and depression. I also have extensive expertise and training working with children and families coping with chronic medical conditions and pain, such as stomach aches, headaches, and food allergies. In addition, I conduct thorough psychoeducational assessments, ADHD evaluations, and early kindergarten entry assessments to help children, teenagers, and college students achieve academic success.
(919) 648-0380 View (919) 648-0380
Photo of Melissa Aguilar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Melissa Aguilar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed in how to manage your emotions or perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed in your relationships (marital, parent-child, parent-teenager, family, or friends)? Do you find yourself becoming irritable at small things or simply being someone you do not want to be anymore? If the answer is yes to any of those questions, I am glad you have found my page. We all have difficult times throughout our life and it is okay to need and ask for help. Difficult times or difficult symptoms vary from person to person. I am here to help guide you and find ways to alleviate your concerns.
Are you feeling overwhelmed in how to manage your emotions or perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed in your relationships (marital, parent-child, parent-teenager, family, or friends)? Do you find yourself becoming irritable at small things or simply being someone you do not want to be anymore? If the answer is yes to any of those questions, I am glad you have found my page. We all have difficult times throughout our life and it is okay to need and ask for help. Difficult times or difficult symptoms vary from person to person. I am here to help guide you and find ways to alleviate your concerns.
(919) 351-6417 View (919) 351-6417
Photo of Brett Maher, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Brett Maher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513
Are you feeling like your life needs a change but you are not sure where to start? It seems, as life becomes more complex, more and more people are suffering from the devastating effects of stress, depression and anxiety and can benefit from the support and insight that therapy provides. I am a NC Licensed Psychologist working clinically with a wide range of ages and issues. I've worked in the field for 20 years, in schools, day treatment, and the private practice setting with adults, families, couples and children; focusing on adjustment difficulties, relationship problems, childhood abuse and maladaptive coping.
Are you feeling like your life needs a change but you are not sure where to start? It seems, as life becomes more complex, more and more people are suffering from the devastating effects of stress, depression and anxiety and can benefit from the support and insight that therapy provides. I am a NC Licensed Psychologist working clinically with a wide range of ages and issues. I've worked in the field for 20 years, in schools, day treatment, and the private practice setting with adults, families, couples and children; focusing on adjustment difficulties, relationship problems, childhood abuse and maladaptive coping.
(919) 429-8751 View (919) 429-8751
Photo of Willow Creek Counseling Associates, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Willow Creek Counseling Associates
Counselor, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
We specialize in providing counseling for children and teens grappling with issues like anxiety, depression, or behavioral challenges. We offer a warm and inviting space where your child can feel understood, valued, and supported. Our goal is to empower children and teens to navigate life's hurdles with confidence and resilience. Through personalized therapy tailored to their unique needs, we aim to help them uncover their inner strengths, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build a positive outlook on life. We also provide additional counseling for adults and marital counseling.
We specialize in providing counseling for children and teens grappling with issues like anxiety, depression, or behavioral challenges. We offer a warm and inviting space where your child can feel understood, valued, and supported. Our goal is to empower children and teens to navigate life's hurdles with confidence and resilience. Through personalized therapy tailored to their unique needs, we aim to help them uncover their inner strengths, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build a positive outlook on life. We also provide additional counseling for adults and marital counseling.
(919) 694-4229 View (919) 694-4229
Photo of Willow Creek Counseling Assoc, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Willow Creek Counseling Assoc, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
We provide comprehensive counseling services for individuals of all ages, from children and teens to adults, as well as specialized marriage and family therapy. Our diverse clients, both individuals and families, seek compassionate, holistic counseling for issues like academics, emotions, stress, and relationships. They desire an empathetic, supportive environment to foster positive change, better relationships, and emotional well-being. Valuing our expert providers and evidence-based therapies, they seek self-discovery and a fulfilling life in a warm, understanding space, making us their choice for top-notch care.
We provide comprehensive counseling services for individuals of all ages, from children and teens to adults, as well as specialized marriage and family therapy. Our diverse clients, both individuals and families, seek compassionate, holistic counseling for issues like academics, emotions, stress, and relationships. They desire an empathetic, supportive environment to foster positive change, better relationships, and emotional well-being. Valuing our expert providers and evidence-based therapies, they seek self-discovery and a fulfilling life in a warm, understanding space, making us their choice for top-notch care.
(919) 351-8043 View (919) 351-8043
Photo of Rebecca King-Marks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Rebecca King-Marks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Greetings and a warm welcome! I am thrilled to embark on the potential journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing with you. My name is Rebecca and I am a dedicated therapist deeply committed to guiding individuals like you towards a place of inner harmony and well-being. I am dedicated to helping people navigate life's intricate tapestries of challenges and triumphs. My educational journey has been complemented by a wealth of hands-on experience working with diverse individuals, each bringing their unique stories and aspiration.My therapeutic approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and respect.
Greetings and a warm welcome! I am thrilled to embark on the potential journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing with you. My name is Rebecca and I am a dedicated therapist deeply committed to guiding individuals like you towards a place of inner harmony and well-being. I am dedicated to helping people navigate life's intricate tapestries of challenges and triumphs. My educational journey has been complemented by a wealth of hands-on experience working with diverse individuals, each bringing their unique stories and aspiration.My therapeutic approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and respect.
(984) 223-5643 View (984) 223-5643

Online Therapists

Photo of Jonathan Farber, Psychologist in Raleigh, 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 Online Teletherapy For Asheville North Carolina Martha Watson in Raleigh, NC
Online Teletherapy For Asheville North Carolina Martha Watson
PhD, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Pinehurst, NC 28374
Specialties: Trauma & PTSD (Online Men's Trauma Coaching), Anxiety and Stress Management, Stress Reduction for Cancer Patients, Child & Teen Stress, Anxiety, Fear and Anger Mindfulness & Emotional Regulation, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, Chronic Illness, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome Coaching), Pain Management, Spirituality and Mind-body Medicine.
Feeling overwhelmed by trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's anger? The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably increased stress and anxiety, impacting both adults and children's mental and physical well-being. A holistic approach that combines CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine offers evidence-based methods for lasting results. This comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of stress challenges, helping you cope, restore your health & handle life transitions. It tackles stress triggers like fear, negative emotions & feeling overwhelmed. Book your complimentary online consultation today for a drug free positive coping strategy.
Specialties: Trauma & PTSD (Online Men's Trauma Coaching), Anxiety and Stress Management, Stress Reduction for Cancer Patients, Child & Teen Stress, Anxiety, Fear and Anger Mindfulness & Emotional Regulation, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, Chronic Illness, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome Coaching), Pain Management, Spirituality and Mind-body Medicine.
Feeling overwhelmed by trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's anger? The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably increased stress and anxiety, impacting both adults and children's mental and physical well-being. A holistic approach that combines CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine offers evidence-based methods for lasting results. This comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of stress challenges, helping you cope, restore your health & handle life transitions. It tackles stress triggers like fear, negative emotions & feeling overwhelmed. Book your complimentary online consultation today for a drug free positive coping strategy.
(828) 888-0944 View (828) 888-0944
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.