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 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 Tiffany Rogers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Tiffany Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCASA, NCC, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612
However, what I can do is stand with you in your pain while we get through it together! I can guarantee you that I will provide you with professional counseling without judgment but with empathy and compassion .
Ever felt alone, rejected or misunderstood? Or simply just felt overwhelmed with many obstacles coming at once? If you have, you are not the only one, nor are you in this by yourself. In fact, I believe that it is my duty and my obligation to give you support and help you realize that there is a way to get your life back, to become a better you! Regardless if it is addiction, depression, anxiety or just overall life- you can overcome whatever you are facing with the right tools , skills and support.
However, what I can do is stand with you in your pain while we get through it together! I can guarantee you that I will provide you with professional counseling without judgment but with empathy and compassion .
Ever felt alone, rejected or misunderstood? Or simply just felt overwhelmed with many obstacles coming at once? If you have, you are not the only one, nor are you in this by yourself. In fact, I believe that it is my duty and my obligation to give you support and help you realize that there is a way to get your life back, to become a better you! Regardless if it is addiction, depression, anxiety or just overall life- you can overcome whatever you are facing with the right tools , skills and support.
(984) 207-3267 View (984) 207-3267
Photo of Carolina Counseling and Therapeutic Solutions, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Carolina Counseling and Therapeutic Solutions
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC-A, LCAS-A, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I specialize in treating the emotional effect of physical pain, addiction, chronic health conditions and losses including divorce, infertility, job loss.
Providing safety for you to talk about what's on your mind is important to me. Whether this is the first time you've sought help or you've been in therapy before, I can help you cope with your life in meaningful ways. I work collaboratively with you toward your goals. Your courage and desire for change coupled with my compassion and experience helps you to make improvements in your life. Together we will develop goals which can become a long term plan of action. I will help you create a plan for a better future.
I specialize in treating the emotional effect of physical pain, addiction, chronic health conditions and losses including divorce, infertility, job loss.
Providing safety for you to talk about what's on your mind is important to me. Whether this is the first time you've sought help or you've been in therapy before, I can help you cope with your life in meaningful ways. I work collaboratively with you toward your goals. Your courage and desire for change coupled with my compassion and experience helps you to make improvements in your life. Together we will develop goals which can become a long term plan of action. I will help you create a plan for a better future.
(919) 888-4531 View (919) 888-4531
Photo of James A Barbour, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
James A Barbour
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610  (Online Only)
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
(252) 585-5186 View (252) 585-5186
Photo of Troy Lantz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Troy Lantz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Through the years of working with others and as an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker I have worked in various community and primary care settings assisting people with anxiety, depression, chronic medical conditions, chronic insomnia, chronic pain, maladaptive behaviors, and trauma.
Most people with anxiety or depression don’t realize how their negative self-talk keeps them down and actually deepens their anxiety or depression. After working with me, my clients identify and reverse the effects of their negative self-talk, start feeling energized and motivated to do the things they used to enjoy, and are able to experience the simple joys of being alive again.
Through the years of working with others and as an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker I have worked in various community and primary care settings assisting people with anxiety, depression, chronic medical conditions, chronic insomnia, chronic pain, maladaptive behaviors, and trauma.
Most people with anxiety or depression don’t realize how their negative self-talk keeps them down and actually deepens their anxiety or depression. After working with me, my clients identify and reverse the effects of their negative self-talk, start feeling energized and motivated to do the things they used to enjoy, and are able to experience the simple joys of being alive again.
(919) 336-2912 View (919) 336-2912
Photo of Kathy Elias, MA, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Kathy Elias, MA
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, sadness, grief or loss, fear, shame or guilt? Do you feel withdrawn or go against your own values to please others, or even lash out sometimes because you don’t know what to do with how you feel? Holding feelings inside can lead to many problems including depression, anxiety, physical illness or ailments, and disconnection from friends and family. Are you your own worst critic and condemn yourself? Do you feel stuck, or lost in life and sometimes wonder who you are? You want to feel better but don't know how to get there.
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, sadness, grief or loss, fear, shame or guilt? Do you feel withdrawn or go against your own values to please others, or even lash out sometimes because you don’t know what to do with how you feel? Holding feelings inside can lead to many problems including depression, anxiety, physical illness or ailments, and disconnection from friends and family. Are you your own worst critic and condemn yourself? Do you feel stuck, or lost in life and sometimes wonder who you are? You want to feel better but don't know how to get there.
(919) 443-5817 View (919) 443-5817
Photo of Suzanne F Bates, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Suzanne F Bates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
Many of my clients struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, OCD and other anxiety disorders, chronic illness, relationship issues, and grief and loss issues.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to enhance learning about behavior, emotions, relationships, and oneself. My goal is to work through the difficulties you are experiencing now while we also build your resiliency to prevent or minimize future difficulties. I ask clients to devote time in between sessions to our work: to increase how accurately we understand your concerns and to take the therapeutic work into your everyday life. Treatment effectiveness relies heavily on the match between therapist and client. If it is not a positive match with me, I assist clients in finding your best match.
Many of my clients struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, OCD and other anxiety disorders, chronic illness, relationship issues, and grief and loss issues.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to enhance learning about behavior, emotions, relationships, and oneself. My goal is to work through the difficulties you are experiencing now while we also build your resiliency to prevent or minimize future difficulties. I ask clients to devote time in between sessions to our work: to increase how accurately we understand your concerns and to take the therapeutic work into your everyday life. Treatment effectiveness relies heavily on the match between therapist and client. If it is not a positive match with me, I assist clients in finding your best match.
(919) 429-7291 View (919) 429-7291
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 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 Complement & Complete Biblical Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Complement & Complete Biblical Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27602  (Online Only)
Complement & Complete is a virtual, mental health practice designed to help individuals overcome emotional roots that cause emotional, physical and spiritual pain.
Welcome to my practice! I'm Denetra Gary, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland (LCSW-C), Indiana (LCSW), and North Carolina (LCSW). I'm a Christian-based counselor and use the Bible as my foundation. I have ten years of experience in the field of social work and mental health counseling. My therapeutic focus includes working with adults, teens, and children who struggle with anxiety, depression, and chronic disorganization. I'm confident and dedicated to helping you reach your goals.
Complement & Complete is a virtual, mental health practice designed to help individuals overcome emotional roots that cause emotional, physical and spiritual pain.
Welcome to my practice! I'm Denetra Gary, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland (LCSW-C), Indiana (LCSW), and North Carolina (LCSW). I'm a Christian-based counselor and use the Bible as my foundation. I have ten years of experience in the field of social work and mental health counseling. My therapeutic focus includes working with adults, teens, and children who struggle with anxiety, depression, and chronic disorganization. I'm confident and dedicated to helping you reach your goals.
(301) 215-2887 View (301) 215-2887
Photo of Alysann Whitley Price, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Alysann Whitley Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27606
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
(919) 925-4566 View (919) 925-4566
Photo of Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601  (Online Only)
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
(919) 823-6654 View (919) 823-6654
Photo of Triangle Wellness and Recovery PLLC in Raleigh, NC
Triangle Wellness and Recovery PLLC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27608
Our team takes an integrative, cross-disciplinary approach to whole-person wellness and recovery. The clients we work with struggle with a broad range of physical and mental health symptoms and conditions including anxiety and mood disorders, depression and bipolar depression, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, chronic pain, substance or alcohol abuse, compulsive behaviors, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. We tailor your treatment plan to start where you are right now and help you build a meaningful, satisfying life that is unique to your personal goals and desires.
Our team takes an integrative, cross-disciplinary approach to whole-person wellness and recovery. The clients we work with struggle with a broad range of physical and mental health symptoms and conditions including anxiety and mood disorders, depression and bipolar depression, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, chronic pain, substance or alcohol abuse, compulsive behaviors, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. We tailor your treatment plan to start where you are right now and help you build a meaningful, satisfying life that is unique to your personal goals and desires.
(984) 205-8011 View (984) 205-8011
Photo of Heather Ingram, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Heather Ingram
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605
Waitlist for new clients
Growing up with family members living with mental illness gave me a deeply personal perspective on how important compassionate high quality mental health care is for clients and families. I am passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families with managing life transitions and coping with change, anxiety and depression, parenting, career issues, burnout, adjustment to disability and chronic illness, substance abuse, stress management, and lasting lifestyle behavioral change. I truly believe you can't heal what you don't feel, and I strive to provide a safe place for processing feelings and emotions.
Growing up with family members living with mental illness gave me a deeply personal perspective on how important compassionate high quality mental health care is for clients and families. I am passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families with managing life transitions and coping with change, anxiety and depression, parenting, career issues, burnout, adjustment to disability and chronic illness, substance abuse, stress management, and lasting lifestyle behavioral change. I truly believe you can't heal what you don't feel, and I strive to provide a safe place for processing feelings and emotions.
(919) 343-5649 View (919) 343-5649
Photo of Leigh Zick Dongre, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Raleigh, NC
Leigh Zick Dongre
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
(336) 791-0314 View (336) 791-0314
Photo of Rasheedah Fletcher, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Raleigh, NC
Rasheedah Fletcher
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
As a clinician I use a person centered approach with techniques and modalities from CBT, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. In session we will discuss matters of the heart, mind and body in an effort to work towards living a congruent life. No matter what stage of life you are in, or what age you are, I am open to hearing you and walking with you through your therapeutic process.
As a clinician I use a person centered approach with techniques and modalities from CBT, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. In session we will discuss matters of the heart, mind and body in an effort to work towards living a congruent life. No matter what stage of life you are in, or what age you are, I am open to hearing you and walking with you through your therapeutic process.
(919) 372-3612 View (919) 372-3612
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 Debra Apollonia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Debra Apollonia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27613
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I create a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients are able to explore issues and improve the quality of their lives. I use an integrative style of psychotherapy that pulls from many different approaches with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and have experience working with those struggling with addiction and recovery issues.I also have years of experience working with emergency and trauma patients and their families. I treat children, adolescents and adults using individual, family and/or couples' counseling.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I create a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients are able to explore issues and improve the quality of their lives. I use an integrative style of psychotherapy that pulls from many different approaches with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and have experience working with those struggling with addiction and recovery issues.I also have years of experience working with emergency and trauma patients and their families. I treat children, adolescents and adults using individual, family and/or couples' counseling.
(919) 948-1395 View (919) 948-1395
Photo of Allison Grubbs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Allison Grubbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, CDWF, RYT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
My journey to becoming a therapist started in an art room. I attended NCSU's College of Design, which led to teaching high school art for several years. Teaching allowed me to find my calling as a therapist and consultant. I graduated from the UNC-Chapel Hill School of Social work in 2008, and have since pursued Certifications in Addictions, Self-Compassion, & the work of Dr. Brené Brown. I also have specific training in Emotionally Focused Individual and Family Therapy which is based on attachment theory as well as AEDP, an experiential therapy model that helps heal trauma through corrective emotional experiences.
My journey to becoming a therapist started in an art room. I attended NCSU's College of Design, which led to teaching high school art for several years. Teaching allowed me to find my calling as a therapist and consultant. I graduated from the UNC-Chapel Hill School of Social work in 2008, and have since pursued Certifications in Addictions, Self-Compassion, & the work of Dr. Brené Brown. I also have specific training in Emotionally Focused Individual and Family Therapy which is based on attachment theory as well as AEDP, an experiential therapy model that helps heal trauma through corrective emotional experiences.
(919) 666-3451 View (919) 666-3451
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.