Photo of Steve Heymen, Psychological Associate in Raleigh, NC
Steve Heymen
Psychological Associate, PhD, BCIAC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605
My primary areas of interest are working with adult patients who suffer with emotional dysregulation, anxiety, chronic pain, or gastrointestinal disorders.
My goal is to help individuals develop skills to increase control over their own mental and physical health. I provide a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Biofeedback Therapy to treat a broad range of psychological and physical challenges in an atmosphere that is friendly and efficient.
My primary areas of interest are working with adult patients who suffer with emotional dysregulation, anxiety, chronic pain, or gastrointestinal disorders.
My goal is to help individuals develop skills to increase control over their own mental and physical health. I provide a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Biofeedback Therapy to treat a broad range of psychological and physical challenges in an atmosphere that is friendly and efficient.
(919) 725-8592 View (919) 725-8592
Photo of Erin L Joyner in Raleigh, NC
Erin L Joyner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603  (Online Only)
My name is Erin Joyner, and I am a Master’s Intern Therapist at Breaking Cycles Counseling. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal relationships, life changes, and grief. I also specialize in helping clients living with chronic pain, illness, and disability. I can happily provide for a broad spectrum of needs for individual adults, seniors, teens, couples, and families, via telehealth. I always aim to help people by tailoring my approach to your individual needs. I have a nonjudgmental perspective on everyone and have yet to meet anyone from whom I can’t learn something, too!
My name is Erin Joyner, and I am a Master’s Intern Therapist at Breaking Cycles Counseling. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal relationships, life changes, and grief. I also specialize in helping clients living with chronic pain, illness, and disability. I can happily provide for a broad spectrum of needs for individual adults, seniors, teens, couples, and families, via telehealth. I always aim to help people by tailoring my approach to your individual needs. I have a nonjudgmental perspective on everyone and have yet to meet anyone from whom I can’t learn something, too!
(336) 715-0047 View (336) 715-0047
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 Paige Orlandi-Holmes, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Paige Orlandi-Holmes
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy helping young adults in transitions or seeking career counseling, clients overcoming trauma, anxiety, depression, pregnancy/postpartum, or chronic illness/pain, and highly sensitive people.
Accepting New Clients - (Open slots are for telehealth only); Our world today can be such a loud, chaotic, unpredictable place - and we are all feeling it, especially post COVID. Life can knock us to the ground and then lift us up to the highest of highs. None of us are immune to pain, but this is of course what makes us human. If you choose to work with me, I will be someone who can support you, encourage you to grow with self-discovery, guide you towards a greater sense of well-being, and help you feel empowered to manage life’s ups and downs.
I enjoy helping young adults in transitions or seeking career counseling, clients overcoming trauma, anxiety, depression, pregnancy/postpartum, or chronic illness/pain, and highly sensitive people.
Accepting New Clients - (Open slots are for telehealth only); Our world today can be such a loud, chaotic, unpredictable place - and we are all feeling it, especially post COVID. Life can knock us to the ground and then lift us up to the highest of highs. None of us are immune to pain, but this is of course what makes us human. If you choose to work with me, I will be someone who can support you, encourage you to grow with self-discovery, guide you towards a greater sense of well-being, and help you feel empowered to manage life’s ups and downs.
(984) 223-0061 View (984) 223-0061
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 Megan Wrast, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Megan Wrast
Counselor, LCMHCA, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27617
My counseling experiences have allowed me to work with individuals ranging from elementary aged children, to elderly adults. I have obtained a skillset working with individuals who have been involved in the criminal justice system, have experienced a variety of trauma, have been living with severe and persistent mental illness, have interacted with juvie and foster care systems, have experienced human trafficking, face daily challenges with anxiety, depression, & life transitions as well as individuals that have histories of abuse. I am passionate about working with individuals to reach their goals, and live authentically.
My counseling experiences have allowed me to work with individuals ranging from elementary aged children, to elderly adults. I have obtained a skillset working with individuals who have been involved in the criminal justice system, have experienced a variety of trauma, have been living with severe and persistent mental illness, have interacted with juvie and foster care systems, have experienced human trafficking, face daily challenges with anxiety, depression, & life transitions as well as individuals that have histories of abuse. I am passionate about working with individuals to reach their goals, and live authentically.
(984) 689-9852 View (984) 689-9852
Photo of Kimberly Lillig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Kimberly Lillig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612  (Online Only)
Bilingual in Spanish, I offer help for anxiety, depression, unraveling past traumas, chronic illness, parenting issues, anger management, grief and life transitions.
Do you have persistent worries, have boundary issues, always feeling stuck or sad or are haunted by past traumas? I can help you in your healing journey and we can work together to untangle unresolved issues in your life. Above all however, compassionate listening is the first hallmark of my practice. To feel safe enough to make changes you must first feel you have been truly heard without judgement while expressing your concerns. Together we can create a space where both your feel safe to express Bothe thoughts and embodied emotions. Feel free to reach out to me for a short free 15 minute session.
Bilingual in Spanish, I offer help for anxiety, depression, unraveling past traumas, chronic illness, parenting issues, anger management, grief and life transitions.
Do you have persistent worries, have boundary issues, always feeling stuck or sad or are haunted by past traumas? I can help you in your healing journey and we can work together to untangle unresolved issues in your life. Above all however, compassionate listening is the first hallmark of my practice. To feel safe enough to make changes you must first feel you have been truly heard without judgement while expressing your concerns. Together we can create a space where both your feel safe to express Bothe thoughts and embodied emotions. Feel free to reach out to me for a short free 15 minute session.
(919) 646-2672 View (919) 646-2672
Photo of Jennifer C Franklin, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Jennifer C Franklin
Psychologist, PhD, MACP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27617
Waitlist for new clients
I work best with adult individuals and couples who wish to address any of the following: anxiety; mind-body issues like IBS, chronic pain, back pain, etc; stress and trauma; relationship difficulties, life transitions, cultural differences, or spiritual issues; and depression. Therapy is individualized, determined by each client's personal needs, interests, and goals. My aim is to support and guide each person through his or her own unique journey towards greater health, wellness, wholeness, peace, satisfaction, and fulfillment. My work is guided by a holistic, mindfulness-based approach, resulting in gradual yet sustainable change.
I work best with adult individuals and couples who wish to address any of the following: anxiety; mind-body issues like IBS, chronic pain, back pain, etc; stress and trauma; relationship difficulties, life transitions, cultural differences, or spiritual issues; and depression. Therapy is individualized, determined by each client's personal needs, interests, and goals. My aim is to support and guide each person through his or her own unique journey towards greater health, wellness, wholeness, peace, satisfaction, and fulfillment. My work is guided by a holistic, mindfulness-based approach, resulting in gradual yet sustainable change.
(310) 421-2756 View (310) 421-2756
Photo of Crystal Shaw, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Crystal Shaw
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610  (Online Only)
I have availability for Friday morning appointments. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor offering online/virtual therapy with over 16 years of experience in counseling. I have worked for public organizations for most of my career, which means I have experience working with a variety of different people. I specialize in anxiety disorders, career dissatisfaction/stress management, and life transitions/adjustments (i.e. college, career switch, divorce, aging, onset of illness).
I have availability for Friday morning appointments. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor offering online/virtual therapy with over 16 years of experience in counseling. I have worked for public organizations for most of my career, which means I have experience working with a variety of different people. I specialize in anxiety disorders, career dissatisfaction/stress management, and life transitions/adjustments (i.e. college, career switch, divorce, aging, onset of illness).
(910) 430-3807 View (910) 430-3807
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 Amy G Therriault, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Raleigh, NC
Amy G Therriault
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605  (Online Only)
What thoughts race through your mind as you go through the day? What thoughts have become obstacles? Do those thoughts hold you captive in states of anxiety and depression? Do they make you feel unsafe, insecure, and isolated, even when we are surrounded by others? Do these thoughts make relationships complicated and responsibilities seem impossible? Are your mental and emotional stressors effecting your physical well-being in ways like physical pain, fatigue, sensory intolerance, brain fog, and inability to focus? Exploring your thoughts and feelings can be difficult, but you do not have to walk through this process alone.
What thoughts race through your mind as you go through the day? What thoughts have become obstacles? Do those thoughts hold you captive in states of anxiety and depression? Do they make you feel unsafe, insecure, and isolated, even when we are surrounded by others? Do these thoughts make relationships complicated and responsibilities seem impossible? Are your mental and emotional stressors effecting your physical well-being in ways like physical pain, fatigue, sensory intolerance, brain fog, and inability to focus? Exploring your thoughts and feelings can be difficult, but you do not have to walk through this process alone.
(919) 646-2779 View (919) 646-2779
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 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 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 Annette Sheppard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Annette Sheppard
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult life events, and/or relationship issues. I am passionate about understanding and healing the client's identified needs. As a therapist, I am both proactively engaged and practical while being sensitive and compassionate. I love helping people create a better, happier life for themselves. Additionally, I work with issues relevant to the LGBTQ+ community, their families, friends, and allies. My other areas of focus include individuals with trauma histories, loss and grief, stress management, and identity development.
I work with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult life events, and/or relationship issues. I am passionate about understanding and healing the client's identified needs. As a therapist, I am both proactively engaged and practical while being sensitive and compassionate. I love helping people create a better, happier life for themselves. Additionally, I work with issues relevant to the LGBTQ+ community, their families, friends, and allies. My other areas of focus include individuals with trauma histories, loss and grief, stress management, and identity development.
(919) 813-7718 View (919) 813-7718
Photo of Melissa Davoli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Melissa Davoli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I believe that one of the most successful outcomes to treatment depends on the therapeutic relationship. This involves the client feeling safe and trusting of the therapist while he/she explores emotional vulnerabilities and painful thought processes. My hope is that you will experience me as someone who actively listens to you and works with you to develop effective problem-solving strategies.
I believe that one of the most successful outcomes to treatment depends on the therapeutic relationship. This involves the client feeling safe and trusting of the therapist while he/she explores emotional vulnerabilities and painful thought processes. My hope is that you will experience me as someone who actively listens to you and works with you to develop effective problem-solving strategies.
(919) 234-5156 View (919) 234-5156
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 Nour Counseling & Consulting, PLLC in Raleigh, NC
Nour Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614  (Online Only)
Has finding an inclusive therapist been a challenge for you? Do you need a counselor who understands experiences around BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, ability differences, and any other wonderful traits that make you who you are? As therapists at Nour Counseling, we self-identify with historically marginalized backgrounds, and have a special passion for supporting our communities. You can come to each therapy session resting assured that your therapist recognizes how the intersection of your various identities impacts the way you experience the world and presenting concerns. We celebrate folx who identify as bicultural, Black, African American, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ability diverse, and all who have been historically marginalized because… Everyone means everyone.
Has finding an inclusive therapist been a challenge for you? Do you need a counselor who understands experiences around BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, ability differences, and any other wonderful traits that make you who you are? As therapists at Nour Counseling, we self-identify with historically marginalized backgrounds, and have a special passion for supporting our communities. You can come to each therapy session resting assured that your therapist recognizes how the intersection of your various identities impacts the way you experience the world and presenting concerns. We celebrate folx who identify as bicultural, Black, African American, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ability diverse, and all who have been historically marginalized because… Everyone means everyone.
(919) 587-8394 View (919) 587-8394
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
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.