Photo of Ann Marie Sochia, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Ann Marie Sochia
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CHT, NLP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27604
At Waves of Change, I assist clients in making the positive changes they want to make in themselves through the utilization of hypnosis, meditation, mindfulness, mental health counseling, and technology assisted relaxation practices. All of my services are offered in a confidential, safe, and serene environment. Some of the specific issues I help clients with are; smoking cessation, weight management, depression, pain management, and stress management to name a few. Please contact me to learn more about how I can help you achieve success in reaching your goals.
At Waves of Change, I assist clients in making the positive changes they want to make in themselves through the utilization of hypnosis, meditation, mindfulness, mental health counseling, and technology assisted relaxation practices. All of my services are offered in a confidential, safe, and serene environment. Some of the specific issues I help clients with are; smoking cessation, weight management, depression, pain management, and stress management to name a few. Please contact me to learn more about how I can help you achieve success in reaching your goals.
(919) 701-6473 View (919) 701-6473
Photo of Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Dr. Robert Heller, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Dr. Robert Heller
Psychologist, EdD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
Hypnosis can be very useful with improving self esteem, sleep, motivation, concentration and managing pain.
Suffering from anxiety, depression, anger, fear, or worry? Problems with relationships? Seeking relief from chronic health issues? With over 38 years of clinical experience with hundreds of clients and advanced training with some of the world's top leaders in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Hypnosis and EMDR, I can provide you with tools and skills you can use NOW to overcome life's toughest challenges so you can lead a healthier, happier and more satisfying life. Call Dr. Robert Heller at 561-451-2731 for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, email drrobertheller at gmail.com or visit www.cognitivetherapyfl.com. Licensed in FL, MA, NC
Hypnosis can be very useful with improving self esteem, sleep, motivation, concentration and managing pain.
Suffering from anxiety, depression, anger, fear, or worry? Problems with relationships? Seeking relief from chronic health issues? With over 38 years of clinical experience with hundreds of clients and advanced training with some of the world's top leaders in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Hypnosis and EMDR, I can provide you with tools and skills you can use NOW to overcome life's toughest challenges so you can lead a healthier, happier and more satisfying life. Call Dr. Robert Heller at 561-451-2731 for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, email drrobertheller at gmail.com or visit www.cognitivetherapyfl.com. Licensed in FL, MA, NC
(561) 287-6059 View (561) 287-6059
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 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 John Taylor Houchens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
John Taylor Houchens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27608
My website - www.taylorhouchens.com - I specialize in working with boys, teenagers, men, women, and families. If this is you, it is my goal to help you overcome the barriers and problems in your life that are keeping you from experiencing the freedom you are desiring. Often times, these problems are the result of trauma from childhood that is still unresolved. Perhaps you're experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, sexual abuse, PTSD, addiction (sexual, drug/alcohol, work), lack of self confidence, family issues, relationship difficulties, negative coping habits, physical or auto-immune disorders, or more. If so, I can help.
My website - www.taylorhouchens.com - I specialize in working with boys, teenagers, men, women, and families. If this is you, it is my goal to help you overcome the barriers and problems in your life that are keeping you from experiencing the freedom you are desiring. Often times, these problems are the result of trauma from childhood that is still unresolved. Perhaps you're experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, sexual abuse, PTSD, addiction (sexual, drug/alcohol, work), lack of self confidence, family issues, relationship difficulties, negative coping habits, physical or auto-immune disorders, or more. If so, I can help.
(828) 622-4184 View (828) 622-4184
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 Amelia Kelley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Amelia Kelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR, RYT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27608
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Reiki, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling & Wellness we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. I specialize in treating teens, adults and couples who suffer from; addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Reiki, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling & Wellness we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. I specialize in treating teens, adults and couples who suffer from; addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
(919) 794-8350 View (919) 794-8350
Photo of Katherine E. Walker, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Katherine E. Walker
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614
Combining a number of evidenced-based and complementary therapeutic approaches, I work with clients to achieve a greater sense of awareness, empowerment, and develop better solutions and strategies to resolve their intrapersonal and interpersonal issues and problems. I believe that, as people become more aware and accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding peace and contentment in their lives. Together we will work to identify goals, explore areas where you feel stuck or lost, approach it in a way that feels safe and manageable, and strive to improve resiliency, adaptability, assertiveness, and empowerment.
Combining a number of evidenced-based and complementary therapeutic approaches, I work with clients to achieve a greater sense of awareness, empowerment, and develop better solutions and strategies to resolve their intrapersonal and interpersonal issues and problems. I believe that, as people become more aware and accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding peace and contentment in their lives. Together we will work to identify goals, explore areas where you feel stuck or lost, approach it in a way that feels safe and manageable, and strive to improve resiliency, adaptability, assertiveness, and empowerment.
(919) 299-1388 View (919) 299-1388
Photo of George Hardie, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
George Hardie
Counselor, MA, MEd, LCMHCA, CHT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
*****NOW ACCEPTING BCBS***** Welcome! Let's start with some good news: 80% of people in therapy get better! Many feel better right away. Change is possible within the crucible of a healing relationship. Working together we will create a safe space where you can begin to let go of the struggle and give voice to your deepest concerns, thoughts, feelings, and desires without fear of judgment or shame. Where you can experiment with new ways of being and behaving, and create a more meaningful narrative for your life. Healing begins with the first step. And, the best time to start is always now.
*****NOW ACCEPTING BCBS***** Welcome! Let's start with some good news: 80% of people in therapy get better! Many feel better right away. Change is possible within the crucible of a healing relationship. Working together we will create a safe space where you can begin to let go of the struggle and give voice to your deepest concerns, thoughts, feelings, and desires without fear of judgment or shame. Where you can experiment with new ways of being and behaving, and create a more meaningful narrative for your life. Healing begins with the first step. And, the best time to start is always now.
(828) 408-0673 View (828) 408-0673
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 Leah Diaz, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Leah Diaz
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, Trauma, 500ERYT, YACEP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27610
Waitlist for new clients
I understand that starting counseling is not easy. Chances are that you’ve tried it before, or that things currently feel like they’re too much to handle. You don’t have to do this alone. My goal is to help you reach YOUR goals. Topics may include: self-esteem/worth, coping skills, psych-Ed, mood regulation, couple counseling, anxiety, depression, OCD, daily stressors, affair recovery, trauma/ PTSD resolution, sexual dysfunction, support for LBGTQA+ or ENM lifestyle, military life challenges, grief and more. I support all beliefs and will gladly incorporate yours into sessions if that is your wish. Each appointment is truly for YOU!
I understand that starting counseling is not easy. Chances are that you’ve tried it before, or that things currently feel like they’re too much to handle. You don’t have to do this alone. My goal is to help you reach YOUR goals. Topics may include: self-esteem/worth, coping skills, psych-Ed, mood regulation, couple counseling, anxiety, depression, OCD, daily stressors, affair recovery, trauma/ PTSD resolution, sexual dysfunction, support for LBGTQA+ or ENM lifestyle, military life challenges, grief and more. I support all beliefs and will gladly incorporate yours into sessions if that is your wish. Each appointment is truly for YOU!
(910) 909-4135 View (910) 909-4135
Photo of Robert L Cooke, Pastoral Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Robert L Cooke
Pastoral Counselor, DMin, NCFBPPC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Not accepting new clients
My patients seek healing from inner pain. Their issues often include grief, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, relationship issues, life transitions, burnout, and financial stress. Exploring their concerns in a safe space, we address who they are, what they care about, and how they can cope more effectively. We also discuss how personality preferences influence their behaviors and conflict styles. Working with their family stories, we find traits and relationship patterns that affect their lives and find strategies to manage them. Discussions about faith, spirituality, and ethics are welcomed and invited.
My patients seek healing from inner pain. Their issues often include grief, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, relationship issues, life transitions, burnout, and financial stress. Exploring their concerns in a safe space, we address who they are, what they care about, and how they can cope more effectively. We also discuss how personality preferences influence their behaviors and conflict styles. Working with their family stories, we find traits and relationship patterns that affect their lives and find strategies to manage them. Discussions about faith, spirituality, and ethics are welcomed and invited.
(919) 330-0085 x202 View (919) 330-0085 x202

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 Dr. Tom Murray Sex Therapist | Couples Counselor, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Dr. Tom Murray Sex Therapist | Couples Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCMHCS, CFMHE, CSTS
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27519
Should I stay or should I go? A huge question that's weighed on you. It keeps you up at night, stressing you out. Life would be so much easier if your relationship wasn't so hard. You wish you could communicate better; feel understood. But, damn, your shit and their shit get in the way. Not to mention the pressures of career, aging parents, or demanding children. It all gets thrown in the mix, leaving you exhausted, distracted, and disenchanted by the status quo. You want things to change (better sex, intimacy, connection); you're finally ready to take charge of your life in a new and meaningful way. You've come to the right place!
Should I stay or should I go? A huge question that's weighed on you. It keeps you up at night, stressing you out. Life would be so much easier if your relationship wasn't so hard. You wish you could communicate better; feel understood. But, damn, your shit and their shit get in the way. Not to mention the pressures of career, aging parents, or demanding children. It all gets thrown in the mix, leaving you exhausted, distracted, and disenchanted by the status quo. You want things to change (better sex, intimacy, connection); you're finally ready to take charge of your life in a new and meaningful way. You've come to the right place!
(336) 728-6066 View (336) 728-6066

Online Therapists

Photo of Jean Hansson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Jean Hansson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
I am a psychotherapist with many years on mental health experience. My clientele is adults, 16 and up. Areas of practice focus are anxiety and depression, chronic pain, grief, traumatic loss, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and adult ADHD. I'm trained in the therapy modalities of hypnotherapy, EMDR Exposure (CBT), and Emotional Freedom Technique - an energy psychology method. In helping clients break old habits, I'm a licensed provider of Trim Life, a weight loss program using hypnosis. Another program is Clean Break for smoking cessation.
I am a psychotherapist with many years on mental health experience. My clientele is adults, 16 and up. Areas of practice focus are anxiety and depression, chronic pain, grief, traumatic loss, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and adult ADHD. I'm trained in the therapy modalities of hypnotherapy, EMDR Exposure (CBT), and Emotional Freedom Technique - an energy psychology method. In helping clients break old habits, I'm a licensed provider of Trim Life, a weight loss program using hypnosis. Another program is Clean Break for smoking cessation.
(252) 627-9304 View (252) 627-9304
Chayah Stoneberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, MS, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Butner, NC 27509
When emotional pain, anxiety, and fear undermine confidence that life will ever be free of suffering, remember that the solutions to life's problems are within reach.
If you are going through difficult times and feeling emotionally distressed without enough support, know that you are not alone. Having the help of a skilled and confidential therapist can help you regain a sense of balance and well-being. As a therapist, my aim is to support you on your journey to becoming your best self. If you are reading this, know that you have already taken the first step towards healing. Let's work together towards your goals and finding new meaning in your path forward.
When emotional pain, anxiety, and fear undermine confidence that life will ever be free of suffering, remember that the solutions to life's problems are within reach.
If you are going through difficult times and feeling emotionally distressed without enough support, know that you are not alone. Having the help of a skilled and confidential therapist can help you regain a sense of balance and well-being. As a therapist, my aim is to support you on your journey to becoming your best self. If you are reading this, know that you have already taken the first step towards healing. Let's work together towards your goals and finding new meaning in your path forward.
(803) 676-1871 View (803) 676-1871
Photo of Teresa Cox Mayle, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Teresa Cox Mayle
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MSRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Gaston, NC 27832
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is a child, adolescent or adult who experiences anxiety, depression or confusion finding the right path.They have experienced trauma or emotional pain from complex life situations, medical issues, career situations, relationships or are overwhelmed by life. They seek guidance from someone with lived experience and special skills to ease their distress and help them find a way out. They need to feel someone cares while they new insights and coping strategies to find peace and move on with their life. They use these new insights and life skills guide them with new confidence through the next life adventure.
My ideal client is a child, adolescent or adult who experiences anxiety, depression or confusion finding the right path.They have experienced trauma or emotional pain from complex life situations, medical issues, career situations, relationships or are overwhelmed by life. They seek guidance from someone with lived experience and special skills to ease their distress and help them find a way out. They need to feel someone cares while they new insights and coping strategies to find peace and move on with their life. They use these new insights and life skills guide them with new confidence through the next life adventure.
View
Photo of Online Teletherapy For Asheville North Carolina Martha Watson in Raleigh, NC
Online Teletherapy For Asheville North Carolina Martha Watson
PhD, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Pinehurst, NC 28374
Navigate life challenges, battling stress, cancer, grief or loss, chronic conditions (migraines, pain), illness, healing anxiety, trauma, IBS or childs anger/stress.
Feeling overwhelmed by trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's anger? The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably increased stress and anxiety, impacting both adults and children's mental and physical well-being. A holistic approach that combines CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine offers evidence-based methods for lasting results. This comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of stress challenges, helping you cope, restore your health & handle life transitions. It tackles stress triggers like fear, negative emotions & feeling overwhelmed. Book your complimentary online consultation today for a drug free positive coping strategy.
Navigate life challenges, battling stress, cancer, grief or loss, chronic conditions (migraines, pain), illness, healing anxiety, trauma, IBS or childs anger/stress.
Feeling overwhelmed by trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's anger? The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably increased stress and anxiety, impacting both adults and children's mental and physical well-being. A holistic approach that combines CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine offers evidence-based methods for lasting results. This comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of stress challenges, helping you cope, restore your health & handle life transitions. It tackles stress triggers like fear, negative emotions & feeling overwhelmed. Book your complimentary online consultation today for a drug free positive coping strategy.
(828) 888-0944 View (828) 888-0944
Photo of Alan Konell in Raleigh, NC
Alan Konell
MSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27516  (Online Only)
My ideal client is one who wants relief from stress, anxiety, guilt and/or shame, trauma, or chronic pain, but has not been able to achieve this. Typically, I can help people realize lasting desired change efficiently and effectively. Also, I have had great success helping people with phobias and fears and those who want improved relationships. My first goal is to do no harm. My second goal is to help clients realize desired goals while respecting and preserving what is already working in their lives.
My ideal client is one who wants relief from stress, anxiety, guilt and/or shame, trauma, or chronic pain, but has not been able to achieve this. Typically, I can help people realize lasting desired change efficiently and effectively. Also, I have had great success helping people with phobias and fears and those who want improved relationships. My first goal is to do no harm. My second goal is to help clients realize desired goals while respecting and preserving what is already working in their lives.
(919) 804-1347 View (919) 804-1347
Photo of Dr. Dana Lebo, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Dr. Dana Lebo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516  (Online Only)
Are you looking for support to master life's challenges, break free of ineffective patterns of behavior & improve your mental health & well-being? With over two decades of experience, I am passionate about helping individuals enhance their performance & better manage anxiety, life transitions, trauma, depression, pain, sleep, and more. My approach to therapy is grounded in mind-body, non-pharmacological techniques for dealing with the complexities & stress of busy home, school, work, sports & family lives. Additionally, I am credentialed to practice teletherapy in 36 states listed on the PsyPact Map at psypact.org under Quick Links.
Are you looking for support to master life's challenges, break free of ineffective patterns of behavior & improve your mental health & well-being? With over two decades of experience, I am passionate about helping individuals enhance their performance & better manage anxiety, life transitions, trauma, depression, pain, sleep, and more. My approach to therapy is grounded in mind-body, non-pharmacological techniques for dealing with the complexities & stress of busy home, school, work, sports & family lives. Additionally, I am credentialed to practice teletherapy in 36 states listed on the PsyPact Map at psypact.org under Quick Links.
(919) 276-8758 View (919) 276-8758
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.