Photo of Becky Shaffer, Counselor in Raleigh, 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 Tiffany Rogers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, 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 Jairo Orellana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Jairo Orellana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27602  (Online Only)
In the fast-paced world we live in, prioritizing mental health is more important than ever. As a licensed clinical therapist with over 15 years of experience, my focus is on assisting adults and adolescents in comprehending and managing challenging emotions and behaviors that hinder their progress. At times, we may experience unexplained sadness, loneliness, withdrawal, defeat, alienation, anxiety, or self-defeating tendencies. These emotions can adversely affect our lives and relationships. It is often difficult to live with these emotions. You can get the help you need. I can help you!
In the fast-paced world we live in, prioritizing mental health is more important than ever. As a licensed clinical therapist with over 15 years of experience, my focus is on assisting adults and adolescents in comprehending and managing challenging emotions and behaviors that hinder their progress. At times, we may experience unexplained sadness, loneliness, withdrawal, defeat, alienation, anxiety, or self-defeating tendencies. These emotions can adversely affect our lives and relationships. It is often difficult to live with these emotions. You can get the help you need. I can help you!
(252) 765-4146 View (252) 765-4146
Photo of Patricia Pace, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Patricia Pace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, NCC, LCAS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
Patricia Pace is a Licensed Professional Counselor, with expertise in helping clients recover from Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Grief, Addictions and Trauma. She excels in helping individuals and families move through life transitions (major and minor), rebound from setbacks (large and small) and work through the everyday challenges of work and life. She also offers pre-marital, marriage and family counseling (for traditional, non-traditional and alternative couple and family structures). Additionally, Patricia is a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCASA), and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
Patricia Pace is a Licensed Professional Counselor, with expertise in helping clients recover from Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Grief, Addictions and Trauma. She excels in helping individuals and families move through life transitions (major and minor), rebound from setbacks (large and small) and work through the everyday challenges of work and life. She also offers pre-marital, marriage and family counseling (for traditional, non-traditional and alternative couple and family structures). Additionally, Patricia is a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCASA), and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
(919) 307-7540 View (919) 307-7540
Photo of Steven Riley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Steven Riley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612  (Online Only)
Everyone faces challenges in life. Sometimes we are in need of answers and guidance. Children, teens, adults and couples all face these challenges. You have all the answers to face these challenges. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina, and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. I am here to guide you through the process of making each step to success and happiness. Couples, my wife Latisha Riley who is also a fully licensed therapist and I offer a unique "Quad session" where we both are available during the session providing a customized experience. Please contact us for details.
Everyone faces challenges in life. Sometimes we are in need of answers and guidance. Children, teens, adults and couples all face these challenges. You have all the answers to face these challenges. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina, and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. I am here to guide you through the process of making each step to success and happiness. Couples, my wife Latisha Riley who is also a fully licensed therapist and I offer a unique "Quad session" where we both are available during the session providing a customized experience. Please contact us for details.
(919) 372-4479 View (919) 372-4479
Photo of Animal Assisted Therapy of the Triangle, PC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Animal Assisted Therapy of the Triangle, PC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS-A, DCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Animal Assisted Therapy of the Triangle is a mental health and wellness clinic with offices located in located in Clayton, Raleigh, and Powell's Point. Serving children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in Johnston, Wake, Dare and surrounding counties in NC. We have a team of therapists with the knowledge and experience to help clients with a wide range of mental health and wellness issues. We believe in the power of the human-animal bond and most of our therapists work with animals as co-therapists to accelerate the insight, healing, and growth process.
Animal Assisted Therapy of the Triangle is a mental health and wellness clinic with offices located in located in Clayton, Raleigh, and Powell's Point. Serving children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in Johnston, Wake, Dare and surrounding counties in NC. We have a team of therapists with the knowledge and experience to help clients with a wide range of mental health and wellness issues. We believe in the power of the human-animal bond and most of our therapists work with animals as co-therapists to accelerate the insight, healing, and growth process.
(919) 980-9132 View (919) 980-9132
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 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 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 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 Jennifer Gural, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Jennifer Gural
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LPC, LAADC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
I help clients understand their behaviors, habits, addictions, and attitudes. I utilize evidenced-based therapies and motivational enhancement techniques to assist clients in shedding the behaviors and habits that have been holding while facilitating work towards positive life change and goal achievement. In addition to my focus on addiction, I work with a variety of other mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I also serve as leader and facilitator of addiction groups, support groups, mindfulness groups and moderation management groups at Coast Psychological Services.
I help clients understand their behaviors, habits, addictions, and attitudes. I utilize evidenced-based therapies and motivational enhancement techniques to assist clients in shedding the behaviors and habits that have been holding while facilitating work towards positive life change and goal achievement. In addition to my focus on addiction, I work with a variety of other mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I also serve as leader and facilitator of addiction groups, support groups, mindfulness groups and moderation management groups at Coast Psychological Services.
(424) 347-8344 View (424) 347-8344
Photo of Peter Charles Soule, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Peter Charles Soule
Counselor, MEd,, LCAS
Not Verified Not Verified
Raleigh, NC 27616
Accepting New Patients I am a board certified licensed clinical addiction specialist. I provide counseling, consultation and evaluation for adults with mental health concerns and/or substances abuse issues. I work in a group practice with a psychiatrist who provides medication management. I have extensive experience treating patients who struggle with alcohol, drug abuse, chronic relapse, as well as life problems created by these issues. I strive to help my patients obtain optimal mental health through support, education and collaboration. I provide a warm approach which encourages autonomy, growth and healing.
Accepting New Patients I am a board certified licensed clinical addiction specialist. I provide counseling, consultation and evaluation for adults with mental health concerns and/or substances abuse issues. I work in a group practice with a psychiatrist who provides medication management. I have extensive experience treating patients who struggle with alcohol, drug abuse, chronic relapse, as well as life problems created by these issues. I strive to help my patients obtain optimal mental health through support, education and collaboration. I provide a warm approach which encourages autonomy, growth and healing.
(919) 648-2839 View (919) 648-2839
Photo of Dr. Melissa M Sisco, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Dr. Melissa M Sisco
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605  (Online Only)
I hope that this message found you ready to let go of the patterns that ail you and prepared to embrace something new. You do not have to suffer not one day longer, we can navigate it together and I can be with you sitting in your closet or in sweat pants petting your dog healing. If you are feeling stuck, uncertain of how or if therapy can even help, like the last man standing, judged or alienated, this is your place to be celebrated and accepted for all of who you are. A good therapy session realigns your inner compass and enhances the things that make you EXTRAordinary. Let’ connect, big personality, and complex trauma welcomed.
I hope that this message found you ready to let go of the patterns that ail you and prepared to embrace something new. You do not have to suffer not one day longer, we can navigate it together and I can be with you sitting in your closet or in sweat pants petting your dog healing. If you are feeling stuck, uncertain of how or if therapy can even help, like the last man standing, judged or alienated, this is your place to be celebrated and accepted for all of who you are. A good therapy session realigns your inner compass and enhances the things that make you EXTRAordinary. Let’ connect, big personality, and complex trauma welcomed.
(704) 292-6020 View (704) 292-6020
Photo of Oceanside Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Oceanside Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27603
Oceanside Counseling was created to give you hope and to help you feel listened to and supported in your pursuit of health and healing. At Oceanside you are not just another number. Your mental health matters to us and we value and treat you like we would want to be treated ourselves. Recent events have increased stress for people throughout the world and many people are struggling with overwhelming emotions and fears. If you are in need, please reach out to us. We are currently providing virtual services (video/telephone) to anyone living in North Carolina and we are accepting new patients.
Oceanside Counseling was created to give you hope and to help you feel listened to and supported in your pursuit of health and healing. At Oceanside you are not just another number. Your mental health matters to us and we value and treat you like we would want to be treated ourselves. Recent events have increased stress for people throughout the world and many people are struggling with overwhelming emotions and fears. If you are in need, please reach out to us. We are currently providing virtual services (video/telephone) to anyone living in North Carolina and we are accepting new patients.
(910) 378-0880 View (910) 378-0880
Photo of Lisette Deese, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Lisette Deese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CSI, CCTP, CDBT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a young child, Lisette knew that she was called to "help others." Therefore, she decided to pursue something in the human service field. She graduated in 2004, with her BS in psychology from University of North Carolina at Pembroke. In 2009, she received her MSW from Fayetteville State University. Lisette believes that "Understanding the human spirit is the most important aspect to helping others." Building a therapeutic relationship with your client is a must! Empowerment is a major role that both client and therapist must display. If you believe in yourself, others will believe in you as well. That energy is undeniable!
As a young child, Lisette knew that she was called to "help others." Therefore, she decided to pursue something in the human service field. She graduated in 2004, with her BS in psychology from University of North Carolina at Pembroke. In 2009, she received her MSW from Fayetteville State University. Lisette believes that "Understanding the human spirit is the most important aspect to helping others." Building a therapeutic relationship with your client is a must! Empowerment is a major role that both client and therapist must display. If you believe in yourself, others will believe in you as well. That energy is undeniable!
(919) 666-2045 View (919) 666-2045

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hall Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Hall Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
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 Lindsay Geist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Lindsay Geist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
Does life sometimes look different than you expected it to be? Do you wonder about your life purpose or what gives you value? Or question about where you fit in the world? Perhaps you might even be feeling more anxious about your future lately. We all wrestle with our identity and challenge our self-worth when difficult times emerge in our lives. Some of us struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, or life stage issues and need someone to walk with us and help us navigate during those times. I would love to journey with you through the ordinary and the extraordinary moments of your life.
Does life sometimes look different than you expected it to be? Do you wonder about your life purpose or what gives you value? Or question about where you fit in the world? Perhaps you might even be feeling more anxious about your future lately. We all wrestle with our identity and challenge our self-worth when difficult times emerge in our lives. Some of us struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, or life stage issues and need someone to walk with us and help us navigate during those times. I would love to journey with you through the ordinary and the extraordinary moments of your life.
(678) 616-2672 View (678) 616-2672
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

Online Therapists

Photo of Palms Wellness Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Palms Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28546
Have you been suffering from Grief & Loss, terminally ill, or just feeling alone and isolated, unheard? Need someone that will truly listen and talk "with you"? Taking things at your pace, understanding your needs, we provide "care" because we care. We can help you through what may be the hardest challenges you have faced. Have you lost yourself or a loved one to Opioid Addiction and need help with medication management and therapy? We have over 16 years helping people build new lives which allows them to move forward by healing forward. We also provide "Pet/Fur Kids" Loss therapy as we at PWC "all" relate first hand to this pain.
Have you been suffering from Grief & Loss, terminally ill, or just feeling alone and isolated, unheard? Need someone that will truly listen and talk "with you"? Taking things at your pace, understanding your needs, we provide "care" because we care. We can help you through what may be the hardest challenges you have faced. Have you lost yourself or a loved one to Opioid Addiction and need help with medication management and therapy? We have over 16 years helping people build new lives which allows them to move forward by healing forward. We also provide "Pet/Fur Kids" Loss therapy as we at PWC "all" relate first hand to this pain.
(910) 758-2346 View (910) 758-2346
Photo of Madalina Ochenatu, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Madalina Ochenatu
Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
It is frustrating to have tried everything, yet continue to feel in pain, sad, hopeless, stuck in the past, and worrying about the future, yourself, and your relationships. Stress, past trauma, chronic physical & mental illness can make you feel that way, affecting your quality of life (QOL). Imagine though a life where you get a boost of energy and motivation, quiet negative self-talk, cope better with stress, manage physical and emotional pain, build confidence, feel less worried, self-conscious and withdrawn, regain hope and pleasure in things you used to enjoy, live a healthier life style, and accomplish meaningful life goals.
It is frustrating to have tried everything, yet continue to feel in pain, sad, hopeless, stuck in the past, and worrying about the future, yourself, and your relationships. Stress, past trauma, chronic physical & mental illness can make you feel that way, affecting your quality of life (QOL). Imagine though a life where you get a boost of energy and motivation, quiet negative self-talk, cope better with stress, manage physical and emotional pain, build confidence, feel less worried, self-conscious and withdrawn, regain hope and pleasure in things you used to enjoy, live a healthier life style, and accomplish meaningful life goals.
(984) 205-4877 View (984) 205-4877

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.