Photo of Mindful Reflections, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Mindful Reflections
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, DBH
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27617  (Online Only)
Salman offers therapeutic interventions for depression, anxiety, stress due to chronic physical health issues such as chronic pain, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, smoking etc.
Dr. Salman provides “whole person care” through Motivational interviewing techniques, Acceptance & Commitment therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Mindfulness and Person-centered care. Dr. Salman provides Teletherapy in NC via HIPPA compliant platform. “You are not your pain”. Dr. Salman believes and specializes in providing services to adults & elderly struggling with chronic pain. Blending ACT, CBT, and Mindfulness, she helps the clients to change their perspective on pain. Clients learn the neurobiology of the pain which leads to build neuroplasticity and coping skills to improve their mental and physical functioning.
Salman offers therapeutic interventions for depression, anxiety, stress due to chronic physical health issues such as chronic pain, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, smoking etc.
Dr. Salman provides “whole person care” through Motivational interviewing techniques, Acceptance & Commitment therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Mindfulness and Person-centered care. Dr. Salman provides Teletherapy in NC via HIPPA compliant platform. “You are not your pain”. Dr. Salman believes and specializes in providing services to adults & elderly struggling with chronic pain. Blending ACT, CBT, and Mindfulness, she helps the clients to change their perspective on pain. Clients learn the neurobiology of the pain which leads to build neuroplasticity and coping skills to improve their mental and physical functioning.
(984) 985-2729 View (984) 985-2729
Photo of Janet Heuring Larsen, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Janet Heuring Larsen
Psychologist, MA, LCAS, LPA, HSP-PA, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
PRACTICE MAY HAVE A WAITLIST, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR INQUIRIES: My psychology practice is committed to delivering highly effective treatment and outstanding client care. I've helped individuals navigate challenges and improve their lives for over 10 years. I treat clients with an array of issues including relationship struggles, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, anger, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, substance use/addiction and grief. I serve many clients with co-occurring disorders and have trained other therapists. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and trauma using EMDR and also offer ADHD/ADD counseling.
PRACTICE MAY HAVE A WAITLIST, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR INQUIRIES: My psychology practice is committed to delivering highly effective treatment and outstanding client care. I've helped individuals navigate challenges and improve their lives for over 10 years. I treat clients with an array of issues including relationship struggles, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, anger, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, substance use/addiction and grief. I serve many clients with co-occurring disorders and have trained other therapists. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and trauma using EMDR and also offer ADHD/ADD counseling.
(919) 948-3053 View (919) 948-3053
Photo of Pam Koretsky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Pam Koretsky, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I have an all telehealth practice for adults who live in Florida and North Carolina using a HIPAA compliant video platform. In this stressful environment we live in, learning to be our own best friend can lead us down a happier path. Through Cognitive Behavioral techniques we can understand the connection between our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, life transitions chronic pain and illness, depression, caregiver issues, low self-esteem and grief. These are only some of the issues. By using solution focused therapy, clients can begin to feel better in a shorter time frame.
I have an all telehealth practice for adults who live in Florida and North Carolina using a HIPAA compliant video platform. In this stressful environment we live in, learning to be our own best friend can lead us down a happier path. Through Cognitive Behavioral techniques we can understand the connection between our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, life transitions chronic pain and illness, depression, caregiver issues, low self-esteem and grief. These are only some of the issues. By using solution focused therapy, clients can begin to feel better in a shorter time frame.
(919) 605-3544 View (919) 605-3544
Photo of Wake Forest Peace of Mind, PLLC in Raleigh, NC
Wake Forest Peace of Mind, PLLC
MS, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I've worked at the Miami VA, Cambridge (Massachusetts) public high school, chronic pain clinic, older adult and community mental health clinic, and now in private practice since 1998.
You are not alone.. You have options.. You can make healthy changes to give you peace of mind. P.O.M. sessions are conducted in a gentle, honest, down-to-earth, and resourceful way. My 20+ years of experience treating couples, adults, and kids help me to better clarify your challenge(s), identify options, and share strategies for change. Approach: Cognitive behavioral. Experienced, trained, interested in treating these challenges: Relationship/marital, adoption, military, depression, anxiety, panic, stress, anger, parenting, chronic pain, and life transitions (menopause, relocation, divorce). See: WFPeaceofMind.com
I've worked at the Miami VA, Cambridge (Massachusetts) public high school, chronic pain clinic, older adult and community mental health clinic, and now in private practice since 1998.
You are not alone.. You have options.. You can make healthy changes to give you peace of mind. P.O.M. sessions are conducted in a gentle, honest, down-to-earth, and resourceful way. My 20+ years of experience treating couples, adults, and kids help me to better clarify your challenge(s), identify options, and share strategies for change. Approach: Cognitive behavioral. Experienced, trained, interested in treating these challenges: Relationship/marital, adoption, military, depression, anxiety, panic, stress, anger, parenting, chronic pain, and life transitions (menopause, relocation, divorce). See: WFPeaceofMind.com
(919) 249-7192 View (919) 249-7192
Photo of Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601  (Online Only)
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
(919) 823-6654 View (919) 823-6654
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 Jenny Smith Person, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Jenny Smith Person
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27606
I am strengths-based and I utilize different therapy techniques, including EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational interviewing, and CBT for Chronic Pain.
I strive to provide a warm and caring environment for clients to feel open to explore challenges in their life. I appreciate working with clients who are tired of being “stuck” and want to address trauma and/or stressful life events from their past that are standing in the way of them achieving their dreams.
I am strengths-based and I utilize different therapy techniques, including EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational interviewing, and CBT for Chronic Pain.
I strive to provide a warm and caring environment for clients to feel open to explore challenges in their life. I appreciate working with clients who are tired of being “stuck” and want to address trauma and/or stressful life events from their past that are standing in the way of them achieving their dreams.
(919) 891-1235 View (919) 891-1235
Photo of Patricia J. Tuohy in Raleigh, NC
Patricia J. Tuohy
MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601  (Online Only)
Hello and thank you for visiting my page! I am so happy you decided to take the most difficult step and reach out for support! I wish more people realized that they didn’t have to continue to live day to day struggling to make it through. People usually come to me because they are experiencing anxiety, panic, sleeplessness, depression and perhaps other symptoms like flashbacks or nightmares. Their relationships are suffering and they are having a difficult time functioning at home and work. Most times, they have been feeling this way for so long that they can’t imagine a life of feeling peaceful, calm and happy.
Hello and thank you for visiting my page! I am so happy you decided to take the most difficult step and reach out for support! I wish more people realized that they didn’t have to continue to live day to day struggling to make it through. People usually come to me because they are experiencing anxiety, panic, sleeplessness, depression and perhaps other symptoms like flashbacks or nightmares. Their relationships are suffering and they are having a difficult time functioning at home and work. Most times, they have been feeling this way for so long that they can’t imagine a life of feeling peaceful, calm and happy.
(919) 648-1494 View (919) 648-1494
Photo of Debra Apollonia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Debra Apollonia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27613
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I create a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients are able to explore issues and improve the quality of their lives. I use an integrative style of psychotherapy that pulls from many different approaches with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and have experience working with those struggling with addiction and recovery issues.I also have years of experience working with emergency and trauma patients and their families. I treat children, adolescents and adults using individual, family and/or couples' counseling.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I create a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients are able to explore issues and improve the quality of their lives. I use an integrative style of psychotherapy that pulls from many different approaches with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and have experience working with those struggling with addiction and recovery issues.I also have years of experience working with emergency and trauma patients and their families. I treat children, adolescents and adults using individual, family and/or couples' counseling.
(919) 948-1395 View (919) 948-1395
Photo of Martha Hope Rollins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Martha Hope Rollins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
As an experienced psychotherapist, I specialize in both brief and intensive therapies. I have expertise in working with individuals and couples with dysfunctional communication patterns. If you feel that you are caught in a loop of partners who do not meet your needs and deflate your feeling of self-worth. You may be an empath who finds yourself in a caretaking role for others. We will work together to understand the dance that keeps you in a one down relationship. I will help you do the hard work needed to make changes and feel a greater sense of well-being.
As an experienced psychotherapist, I specialize in both brief and intensive therapies. I have expertise in working with individuals and couples with dysfunctional communication patterns. If you feel that you are caught in a loop of partners who do not meet your needs and deflate your feeling of self-worth. You may be an empath who finds yourself in a caretaking role for others. We will work together to understand the dance that keeps you in a one down relationship. I will help you do the hard work needed to make changes and feel a greater sense of well-being.
(919) 443-5938 View (919) 443-5938
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 Cecelia Ann Bailey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Cecelia Ann Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I provide therapy to adolescents and adults, using a client-centered, eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client. My preferred treatment approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I believe that change happens when people are given the guidance they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live a fulfilling, happy life. My areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, teens with self-injurious behaviors/behavior issues, phase of life changes and life stresses.
I provide therapy to adolescents and adults, using a client-centered, eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client. My preferred treatment approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I believe that change happens when people are given the guidance they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live a fulfilling, happy life. My areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, teens with self-injurious behaviors/behavior issues, phase of life changes and life stresses.
(919) 583-7910 View (919) 583-7910
Photo of Katherine Bracken, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Katherine Bracken
Psychologist, PhD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Note: (I am currently offering a weekly Mental Health Wellness virtual therapy group. Contact for more info!) Throughout my career I have focused on working with clients from a trauma-informed perspective, helping clients simultaneously work toward the seemingly opposite goals of acceptance of what is and changing what is possible. I prioritize meeting clients where they are, creating a space that enhances their ability to experience and process emotions, and offering skills to create positive change in their lives that are consistent with their own goals and values, all while building a strong therapy relationship.
Note: (I am currently offering a weekly Mental Health Wellness virtual therapy group. Contact for more info!) Throughout my career I have focused on working with clients from a trauma-informed perspective, helping clients simultaneously work toward the seemingly opposite goals of acceptance of what is and changing what is possible. I prioritize meeting clients where they are, creating a space that enhances their ability to experience and process emotions, and offering skills to create positive change in their lives that are consistent with their own goals and values, all while building a strong therapy relationship.
(919) 750-8270 View (919) 750-8270
Photo of Jessica Cuttance at Nourish Carolina Counseling, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Jessica Cuttance at Nourish Carolina Counseling
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Are you struggling to connect with yourself and others? Are emotional difficulties impacting your ability to show up authentically in the world? Do you suspect there might be deeper, more complex themes you have not yet explored about yourself or your past that contribute to your current state? If so, I would love to work with you! I will accept you for exactly who you are, without judgment. Together, we will ease restore balance in your nervous system, build emotional resilience, increase your capacity for positive emotions, and develop behaviors consistent with your most authentic, organic self.
Are you struggling to connect with yourself and others? Are emotional difficulties impacting your ability to show up authentically in the world? Do you suspect there might be deeper, more complex themes you have not yet explored about yourself or your past that contribute to your current state? If so, I would love to work with you! I will accept you for exactly who you are, without judgment. Together, we will ease restore balance in your nervous system, build emotional resilience, increase your capacity for positive emotions, and develop behaviors consistent with your most authentic, organic self.
(919) 533-4552 View (919) 533-4552
Photo of Kelly White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Kelly White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Life is full of twist and turns; ups and downs. Learning to manage your emotions and remain mentally stable gives you the ability to endure the unexpected and unknown. Focusing on your strengths and recognizing your weaknesses provides you the opportunity and ability to move forward. Understanding the neurological impact of trauma, fear, disappointment and hurt, gives you the opportunity to adjust and manage life’s complexities. Let’s talk about moving forward.
Life is full of twist and turns; ups and downs. Learning to manage your emotions and remain mentally stable gives you the ability to endure the unexpected and unknown. Focusing on your strengths and recognizing your weaknesses provides you the opportunity and ability to move forward. Understanding the neurological impact of trauma, fear, disappointment and hurt, gives you the opportunity to adjust and manage life’s complexities. Let’s talk about moving forward.
(919) 277-0253 View (919) 277-0253
Photo of Kirsten Newell-Marino, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Raleigh, NC
Kirsten Newell-Marino
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, LCMHC-A, NCC, AAT-I
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I have always had an interest in not only how our minds, bodies, and spirits are connected, but also what takes place when an imbalance exists and then how to implore healing. I look at an individual through a holistic lens, and use this approach, when appropriate. A part of this holistic approach, I have the belief that as a part of the world and universe in which we live, that we are all, interconnected and operate as a part of a dynamic system. I am especially interested in how mindfulness practices, yoga, animals, and nature, might influence the ideas of acceptance and non-judgment, and overall, positively affect an individual.
I have always had an interest in not only how our minds, bodies, and spirits are connected, but also what takes place when an imbalance exists and then how to implore healing. I look at an individual through a holistic lens, and use this approach, when appropriate. A part of this holistic approach, I have the belief that as a part of the world and universe in which we live, that we are all, interconnected and operate as a part of a dynamic system. I am especially interested in how mindfulness practices, yoga, animals, and nature, might influence the ideas of acceptance and non-judgment, and overall, positively affect an individual.
(857) 816-7070 View (857) 816-7070
Photo of John von der Lehr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
John von der Lehr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I view the therapy experience as a directed partnership where strategies are used to directly impact the areas of your life that are distressing to you. Whether it is depression, self-esteem issues, anxiety, problems in marriages, work situations, and many other problems we face and no matter if you are in a dark and difficult place right now, therapy can make a dramatic difference. Incorporating new or different understanding with continual application of new approaches, your emotions, thoughts and very life can be better and more enriching than you might realize. I look forward to hearing from you.
I view the therapy experience as a directed partnership where strategies are used to directly impact the areas of your life that are distressing to you. Whether it is depression, self-esteem issues, anxiety, problems in marriages, work situations, and many other problems we face and no matter if you are in a dark and difficult place right now, therapy can make a dramatic difference. Incorporating new or different understanding with continual application of new approaches, your emotions, thoughts and very life can be better and more enriching than you might realize. I look forward to hearing from you.
(919) 587-8583 x1 View (919) 587-8583 x1
Photo of Sarah Newman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Sarah Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27604
Have you been feeling overwhelmed? Misunderstood? Stuck in your life circumstances? Having trouble communicating to others? Do you need assistance in figuring out your goals and next steps to take in your journey? My goal is to treat the whole person, taking into account your specific mental, physical and spiritual needs. I view each individual as unique. I am interested in helping you problem-solve to find ways to improve your quality of life and become the person you want to be. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal dynamics, and grief.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed? Misunderstood? Stuck in your life circumstances? Having trouble communicating to others? Do you need assistance in figuring out your goals and next steps to take in your journey? My goal is to treat the whole person, taking into account your specific mental, physical and spiritual needs. I view each individual as unique. I am interested in helping you problem-solve to find ways to improve your quality of life and become the person you want to be. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal dynamics, and grief.
(631) 870-7806 View (631) 870-7806
Photo of Dale S Sheffield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervis in Raleigh, NC
Dale S Sheffield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervis, PhD, MEd, LCMHCS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I am pleased to announce the release of my new book, "Affirmative Parenting." It is available as an ebook and paperback version on Amazon. My goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, positive environment where thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can be explored and understood. I want to help people achieve problem resolution through personal and emotional growth. I have used this approach in a variety of mental health settings and, presently, in my private practice. Please visit my website for more details at www.drdalesheffield.com. Thank you for taking the time to read my profile.
I am pleased to announce the release of my new book, "Affirmative Parenting." It is available as an ebook and paperback version on Amazon. My goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, positive environment where thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can be explored and understood. I want to help people achieve problem resolution through personal and emotional growth. I have used this approach in a variety of mental health settings and, presently, in my private practice. Please visit my website for more details at www.drdalesheffield.com. Thank you for taking the time to read my profile.
(919) 913-8311 View (919) 913-8311
Photo of Alison Sappie, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Alison Sappie
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
Dr. Alison Sappie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate with a doctorate in counseling and counselor education from North Carolina State University. During her education and counseling experience she has served a diverse range of clients in both community mental health and university settings.
Dr. Alison Sappie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate with a doctorate in counseling and counselor education from North Carolina State University. During her education and counseling experience she has served a diverse range of clients in both community mental health and university settings.
(919) 823-5493 View (919) 823-5493

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.