Photo of Judith Ann Stubanas in Raleigh, NC
Judith Ann Stubanas
RN, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27614  (Online Only)
New clients accepted for teletherapy via a secure link. Please know you will receive ethical, non-judgmental, confidential and compassionate counseling. When any type of stress or trauma, PTSD or chronic pain becomes overwhelming, I will assist you assist you in finding ways to meet your overall physical and emotional needs in balance. I have an interest in addressing the impact of nutrition on mental and physical health. As a counselor and a nurse, I want to provide hope, resources and practical coping skills to live with life's challenges and experience peace, healing and joy.
New clients accepted for teletherapy via a secure link. Please know you will receive ethical, non-judgmental, confidential and compassionate counseling. When any type of stress or trauma, PTSD or chronic pain becomes overwhelming, I will assist you assist you in finding ways to meet your overall physical and emotional needs in balance. I have an interest in addressing the impact of nutrition on mental and physical health. As a counselor and a nurse, I want to provide hope, resources and practical coping skills to live with life's challenges and experience peace, healing and joy.
(919) 263-2903 x259 View (919) 263-2903 x259
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 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 Kylie Peele, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Kylie Peele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
It may be difficult to find a therapist who is well versed on being sex positive, kink friendly, non-monogamous allied, and informed on chronic illnesses. These unique relationships require experience from someone who is passionate about them! You may need help with your multiple relationships, your relationship structure, or just someone to talk to who will not wince when your sex life is brought up. You may be struggling with a recent diagnosis of a chronic illness and want to talk with someone about it who understands the gravity a chronic illness diagnosis can bring. I love for clients to educate me on their lived experiences!
It may be difficult to find a therapist who is well versed on being sex positive, kink friendly, non-monogamous allied, and informed on chronic illnesses. These unique relationships require experience from someone who is passionate about them! You may need help with your multiple relationships, your relationship structure, or just someone to talk to who will not wince when your sex life is brought up. You may be struggling with a recent diagnosis of a chronic illness and want to talk with someone about it who understands the gravity a chronic illness diagnosis can bring. I love for clients to educate me on their lived experiences!
(984) 409-9049 View (984) 409-9049
Photo of Pam Koretsky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Pam Koretsky, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I have an all telehealth practice for adults who live in Florida and North Carolina using a HIPAA compliant video platform. In this stressful environment we live in, learning to be our own best friend can lead us down a happier path. Through Cognitive Behavioral techniques we can understand the connection between our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, life transitions chronic pain and illness, depression, caregiver issues, low self-esteem and grief. These are only some of the issues. By using solution focused therapy, clients can begin to feel better in a shorter time frame.
I have an all telehealth practice for adults who live in Florida and North Carolina using a HIPAA compliant video platform. In this stressful environment we live in, learning to be our own best friend can lead us down a happier path. Through Cognitive Behavioral techniques we can understand the connection between our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, life transitions chronic pain and illness, depression, caregiver issues, low self-esteem and grief. These are only some of the issues. By using solution focused therapy, clients can begin to feel better in a shorter time frame.
(919) 605-3544 View (919) 605-3544
Photo of New Way Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
New Way Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Often times life can be challenging and many of us are not prepared to deal with those issues and find ourselves in an unfamiliar place. As a therapist, I am dedicated to providing individualized care to meet your needs. I've worked with children and adults in the mental health field for over 16 years and individuals with addiction for over 8 years. I've treated individuals with various mental health and substance use disorders. My experience enables me to offer effective, individualized outpatient psychological care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges and addiction.
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Often times life can be challenging and many of us are not prepared to deal with those issues and find ourselves in an unfamiliar place. As a therapist, I am dedicated to providing individualized care to meet your needs. I've worked with children and adults in the mental health field for over 16 years and individuals with addiction for over 8 years. I've treated individuals with various mental health and substance use disorders. My experience enables me to offer effective, individualized outpatient psychological care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges and addiction.
(919) 289-8267 View (919) 289-8267
Photo of Olinda Davidson in Raleigh, NC
Olinda Davidson
LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603  (Online Only)
You may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious from trying to hold it all together for everyone and everything. You put on a “happy” face and push through the day only to wonder if you will ever feel better. Until now, you’ve been able to manage it on your own, but it’s starting to affect other areas of your life and you can’t pretend everything is ok anymore. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, a relationship or health concerns but wherever the pain is coming from you are tired of feeling alone and stuck. You want to make lasting changes, but deciding where to start feels impossible. I’m here and I get it.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious from trying to hold it all together for everyone and everything. You put on a “happy” face and push through the day only to wonder if you will ever feel better. Until now, you’ve been able to manage it on your own, but it’s starting to affect other areas of your life and you can’t pretend everything is ok anymore. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, a relationship or health concerns but wherever the pain is coming from you are tired of feeling alone and stuck. You want to make lasting changes, but deciding where to start feels impossible. I’m here and I get it.
(252) 582-6024 View (252) 582-6024
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 Savana Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Raleigh, NC
Savana Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601  (Online Only)
I have worked with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and have experience in chronic pain/health psychology.
Accepting NEW clients! I know that finding a therapist can be an overwhelming process. I honor your courage and hope that I can provide a soft place for you to land. I aim to foster a safe, empowering, and collaborative space for my clients. Sometimes we find ourselves losing focus of our life's purpose. Together, we can help identify your values and incorporate them in your life. Through mindfulness practices and acceptance-based strategies, I can help you let go of what is no longer serving you. The ultimate goal for my clients is to decrease any areas of distress while pursuing your values and finding more meaning in your life.
I have worked with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and have experience in chronic pain/health psychology.
Accepting NEW clients! I know that finding a therapist can be an overwhelming process. I honor your courage and hope that I can provide a soft place for you to land. I aim to foster a safe, empowering, and collaborative space for my clients. Sometimes we find ourselves losing focus of our life's purpose. Together, we can help identify your values and incorporate them in your life. Through mindfulness practices and acceptance-based strategies, I can help you let go of what is no longer serving you. The ultimate goal for my clients is to decrease any areas of distress while pursuing your values and finding more meaning in your life.
(828) 539-4408 View (828) 539-4408
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 Shivani L. Chudasama, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Shivani L. Chudasama
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, RYT-500
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27617  (Online Only)
I currently have a waitlist. I am a clinical social worker and registered yoga teacher who empowers people using the guiding principles of empathy, curiosity, cultural humility, and collaboration. I take an integrative, somatic, and highly relational approach and work to understand how the intersection of your unique experiences impact today. I remain committed to working with people as they face a range of experiences, including multicultural concerns, oppression, identity exploration, trauma, anxiety, depression, queer/LGB+ concerns, trans and gender identity related concerns, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and grief.
I currently have a waitlist. I am a clinical social worker and registered yoga teacher who empowers people using the guiding principles of empathy, curiosity, cultural humility, and collaboration. I take an integrative, somatic, and highly relational approach and work to understand how the intersection of your unique experiences impact today. I remain committed to working with people as they face a range of experiences, including multicultural concerns, oppression, identity exploration, trauma, anxiety, depression, queer/LGB+ concerns, trans and gender identity related concerns, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and grief.
(919) 759-5711 View (919) 759-5711
Photo of Leslie A Veach, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Leslie A Veach
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHCS, CGP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Sometimes we feel alone, even in a crowd or with significant others. Pain, trauma, feeling different/misunderstood/unknown or even how we see ourselves can drive a wedge between us and the people and life experiences that matter most to us. If you are looking for someone who will join with you as you find your way through to a more meaningful way of living and toward more fulfilling relationships, then I welcome you to contact me for a free consultation.
Sometimes we feel alone, even in a crowd or with significant others. Pain, trauma, feeling different/misunderstood/unknown or even how we see ourselves can drive a wedge between us and the people and life experiences that matter most to us. If you are looking for someone who will join with you as you find your way through to a more meaningful way of living and toward more fulfilling relationships, then I welcome you to contact me for a free consultation.
(252) 489-4588 View (252) 489-4588
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 Kayla D. (Empowerment Therapist), Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Kayla D. (Empowerment Therapist)
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Has your anxiety taken over? You continually ask yourself “Why am I feeling this way?" "Have I made the right decision?" "Why can't I stop overthinking?" You consistently feel like you are all over the place mentally and emotionally. Constant comparisons are affecting your self esteem, leading you to wonder why others lives are going well & yours is NOT. Overwhelming feelings have you contemplating the worst case scenario rather than the more likely outcome? I can help you make sense of your negative thinking. Together, we can explore the cause of these thoughts and with guidance help you regain control of how you respond to them.
Has your anxiety taken over? You continually ask yourself “Why am I feeling this way?" "Have I made the right decision?" "Why can't I stop overthinking?" You consistently feel like you are all over the place mentally and emotionally. Constant comparisons are affecting your self esteem, leading you to wonder why others lives are going well & yours is NOT. Overwhelming feelings have you contemplating the worst case scenario rather than the more likely outcome? I can help you make sense of your negative thinking. Together, we can explore the cause of these thoughts and with guidance help you regain control of how you respond to them.
(704) 368-3633 View (704) 368-3633
Photo of Nichole Plavec, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Raleigh, NC
Nichole Plavec
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd/MS, LCMHCA, NCC, CCC, SLP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27606
Are you struggling with an unexpected turn in life, trying to make sense of a path that you did not choose? Physical, emotional, cognitive, relational, occupational, or financial changes, whether abrupt or slow growing, may be leading to difficulty in managing daily life or disruptions in wellbeing. Perhaps you are hopeful that therapy might bring a sense of peace or steps toward change and growth.
Are you struggling with an unexpected turn in life, trying to make sense of a path that you did not choose? Physical, emotional, cognitive, relational, occupational, or financial changes, whether abrupt or slow growing, may be leading to difficulty in managing daily life or disruptions in wellbeing. Perhaps you are hopeful that therapy might bring a sense of peace or steps toward change and growth.
(919) 587-8441 View (919) 587-8441
Photo of Kelly White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Kelly White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Life is full of twist and turns; ups and downs. Learning to manage your emotions and remain mentally stable gives you the ability to endure the unexpected and unknown. Focusing on your strengths and recognizing your weaknesses provides you the opportunity and ability to move forward. Understanding the neurological impact of trauma, fear, disappointment and hurt, gives you the opportunity to adjust and manage life’s complexities. Let’s talk about moving forward.
Life is full of twist and turns; ups and downs. Learning to manage your emotions and remain mentally stable gives you the ability to endure the unexpected and unknown. Focusing on your strengths and recognizing your weaknesses provides you the opportunity and ability to move forward. Understanding the neurological impact of trauma, fear, disappointment and hurt, gives you the opportunity to adjust and manage life’s complexities. Let’s talk about moving forward.
(919) 277-0253 View (919) 277-0253
Photo of Insight Family Center, LLC in Raleigh, NC
Insight Family Center, LLC
MA, LPC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
At Insight Family Center, LLC we provide premium psychiatry,mental health and substance abuse services. Our priority is to provide our clients with techniques that will assist them in obtaining their desired outcomes to reach their personal goals.
At Insight Family Center, LLC we provide premium psychiatry,mental health and substance abuse services. Our priority is to provide our clients with techniques that will assist them in obtaining their desired outcomes to reach their personal goals.
(919) 626-3979 View (919) 626-3979
Photo of Martha Hope Rollins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Martha Hope Rollins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
As an experienced psychotherapist, I specialize in both brief and intensive therapies. I have expertise in working with individuals and couples with dysfunctional communication patterns. If you feel that you are caught in a loop of partners who do not meet your needs and deflate your feeling of self-worth. You may be an empath who finds yourself in a caretaking role for others. We will work together to understand the dance that keeps you in a one down relationship. I will help you do the hard work needed to make changes and feel a greater sense of well-being.
As an experienced psychotherapist, I specialize in both brief and intensive therapies. I have expertise in working with individuals and couples with dysfunctional communication patterns. If you feel that you are caught in a loop of partners who do not meet your needs and deflate your feeling of self-worth. You may be an empath who finds yourself in a caretaking role for others. We will work together to understand the dance that keeps you in a one down relationship. I will help you do the hard work needed to make changes and feel a greater sense of well-being.
(919) 443-5938 View (919) 443-5938
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.