Photo of Kristy Bastone, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Kristy Bastone
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC, C-AAIS, MEd, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I have experience working with clients of all ages on a wide range of issues, including chronic pain and illness, anxiety, parenting, adoption, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, addiction, veterans concerns, and grief. I believe that counseling is a collaborative experience, where both the client and therapist decide on a way forward together.
I have experience working with clients of all ages on a wide range of issues, including chronic pain and illness, anxiety, parenting, adoption, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, addiction, veterans concerns, and grief. I believe that counseling is a collaborative experience, where both the client and therapist decide on a way forward together.
(919) 709-3620 View (919) 709-3620
Photo of Mindy Brodsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Mindy Brodsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LGSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Waitlist for new clients
Limited Availability - I specialize in trauma-informed, strengths-based counseling with a passion for integrative health and healing. I serve diverse adolescent and adult populations, including those impacted by cancer and other chronic illness, as well as those who struggle with anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and other life transitions such as prenatal/postpartum support.
Limited Availability - I specialize in trauma-informed, strengths-based counseling with a passion for integrative health and healing. I serve diverse adolescent and adult populations, including those impacted by cancer and other chronic illness, as well as those who struggle with anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and other life transitions such as prenatal/postpartum support.
(984) 464-7277 View (984) 464-7277
Photo of Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Raleigh, NC
Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, DBH, LCMHCS, BCIM, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27606  (Online Only)
Feeling as if you will never get well? Tired of visiting multiple practices in search of answers and never finding them? Do you have difficulty managing a chronic illness or complying with your provider's recommended treatment plan? If any of these scenarios sound familiar, allow one of our team members to assist you in regaining your optimal health.
The clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC are qualified, credentialed, and licensed professionals whose primary mission is to provide quality therapeutic care and organizational training to the surrounding community. Their goal is to empower people; to enrich lives; to give you control of your outcomes; and to restore your body, mind and spirit back to their optimal states of functioning. The certified and licensed clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions have over 28 years of experience and are trained in equipping clients with the tools necessary to maximize their environment and enhance their well-being.
Feeling as if you will never get well? Tired of visiting multiple practices in search of answers and never finding them? Do you have difficulty managing a chronic illness or complying with your provider's recommended treatment plan? If any of these scenarios sound familiar, allow one of our team members to assist you in regaining your optimal health.
The clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC are qualified, credentialed, and licensed professionals whose primary mission is to provide quality therapeutic care and organizational training to the surrounding community. Their goal is to empower people; to enrich lives; to give you control of your outcomes; and to restore your body, mind and spirit back to their optimal states of functioning. The certified and licensed clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions have over 28 years of experience and are trained in equipping clients with the tools necessary to maximize their environment and enhance their well-being.
(704) 896-6044 x1 View (704) 896-6044 x1
Photo of Clarity Psychological Wellness, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Clarity Psychological Wellness
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Accepting New Clients! Struggling to find meaningful connection in your life? Sometimes the harder we work to come up for air, the more we feel like we are drowning. We have specialized training in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, insomnia, disordered eating, chronic illness, and depression. Our focus is not just on short term symptom relief, but long term understanding of the dynamics that keep us stuck. We'll take the time to truly understand your history, triggers, and all contributing factors in order to build an individualized plan for treatment.
Accepting New Clients! Struggling to find meaningful connection in your life? Sometimes the harder we work to come up for air, the more we feel like we are drowning. We have specialized training in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, insomnia, disordered eating, chronic illness, and depression. Our focus is not just on short term symptom relief, but long term understanding of the dynamics that keep us stuck. We'll take the time to truly understand your history, triggers, and all contributing factors in order to build an individualized plan for treatment.
(984) 459-7666 x1 View (984) 459-7666 x1
Photo of Cea Rubin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Cea Rubin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LMBT, RYT-500
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603  (Online Only)
Turning points in life can bring up anxiety, fear of the unknown, and questioning yourself. The pressures of society, “should’s,” and patterns from childhood make it even more difficult to hear yourself. In this in-between, cocoon-like phase – in which you’re not who you were and not yet who you will become – doubt, worry, bad dreams, digestive issues, neck and jaw pain, and low back pain are a few of the symptoms that can arise. Simultaneously, transitions are opportunities to deepen trust in yourself and get to know your genuine self. Together, we will illuminate and empower your needs and desires for this next phase of your life.
Turning points in life can bring up anxiety, fear of the unknown, and questioning yourself. The pressures of society, “should’s,” and patterns from childhood make it even more difficult to hear yourself. In this in-between, cocoon-like phase – in which you’re not who you were and not yet who you will become – doubt, worry, bad dreams, digestive issues, neck and jaw pain, and low back pain are a few of the symptoms that can arise. Simultaneously, transitions are opportunities to deepen trust in yourself and get to know your genuine self. Together, we will illuminate and empower your needs and desires for this next phase of your life.
(984) 224-7736 View (984) 224-7736
Photo of Sacred Listener, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Sacred Listener
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27606
I also have experience as a hospital chaplain and am honored to help those dealing with chronic illness, grief, and loss.
Are you a generally healthy person, looking for guidance in how to live your life in the healthiest and happiest way? Whether your challenges are in the realm of finances, relationships, work satisfaction, anxiety, or depression, transpersonal counseling can help you! If you are looking for a therapist that can include your spiritual beliefs and include those in your treatment, and if you enjoy varied approaches to mental health and happiness such as art, yoga, and meditation, I might be the therapist for you!
I also have experience as a hospital chaplain and am honored to help those dealing with chronic illness, grief, and loss.
Are you a generally healthy person, looking for guidance in how to live your life in the healthiest and happiest way? Whether your challenges are in the realm of finances, relationships, work satisfaction, anxiety, or depression, transpersonal counseling can help you! If you are looking for a therapist that can include your spiritual beliefs and include those in your treatment, and if you enjoy varied approaches to mental health and happiness such as art, yoga, and meditation, I might be the therapist for you!
(919) 335-6734 View (919) 335-6734
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 Bethany Wichman-Buescher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Bethany Wichman-Buescher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
Do you feel inundated with self-critical thoughts, or perhaps you experience a sense of emptiness and separateness? Are you unfulfilled with the relationships in your life, or wish you had more connections? Sometimes all the time we spend thinking and doing makes us miss important messages from our body about what we are feeling and needing. We then feel confused, anxious, or distracted. Unfortunately, we often learn from an early age to ignore our feelings and our bodies, which leads us to feel a lingering sense of shame, disconnection from others, and even physical pain and illness.
Do you feel inundated with self-critical thoughts, or perhaps you experience a sense of emptiness and separateness? Are you unfulfilled with the relationships in your life, or wish you had more connections? Sometimes all the time we spend thinking and doing makes us miss important messages from our body about what we are feeling and needing. We then feel confused, anxious, or distracted. Unfortunately, we often learn from an early age to ignore our feelings and our bodies, which leads us to feel a lingering sense of shame, disconnection from others, and even physical pain and illness.
(984) 213-4535 View (984) 213-4535
Photo of Kerrie Walters, Pre-Licensed Professional in Raleigh, NC
Kerrie Walters
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA, CEAP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in chronic illness, pain and autoimmune, as well as woman's issues.
My goal as an integrated clinician is to treat the whole person. When you feel like nobody knows what you’re going through, sharing your feelings with someone who truly gets it can make all the difference. I’ll help you make sense of your experiences and feel more optimistic about the future.
I specialize in chronic illness, pain and autoimmune, as well as woman's issues.
My goal as an integrated clinician is to treat the whole person. When you feel like nobody knows what you’re going through, sharing your feelings with someone who truly gets it can make all the difference. I’ll help you make sense of your experiences and feel more optimistic about the future.
(984) 249-3156 View (984) 249-3156
Photo of Anna-Kate Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Anna-Kate Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27603
I want to help you heal from events that caused you pain, guilt and shame.
There are many reasons people decide to start therapy. Are you overwhelmed? Having a hard time controlling your emotions? Feel lost or need help with a goal? Are you a mom who constantly feels guilt that you aren't good enough? Are you having relationship issues? Are you dealing with chronic pain or grief? Reaching takes strength and shows a persons desire to heal and improve. We all deserve a time for ourselves to feel heard, understood and supported while we work towards positive changes.
I want to help you heal from events that caused you pain, guilt and shame.
There are many reasons people decide to start therapy. Are you overwhelmed? Having a hard time controlling your emotions? Feel lost or need help with a goal? Are you a mom who constantly feels guilt that you aren't good enough? Are you having relationship issues? Are you dealing with chronic pain or grief? Reaching takes strength and shows a persons desire to heal and improve. We all deserve a time for ourselves to feel heard, understood and supported while we work towards positive changes.
(855) 697-6665 View (855) 697-6665
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 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 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 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 Enlightened Hearts Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Enlightened Hearts Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
My experiences include over a decade of work in the medical system where I assisted patients, families, and caregivers dealing with grief, chronic illness, trauma, life-transitions and caregiver burnout.
Does something feel off in your life? Do your struggles include anxiety, depression, past traumas, or low self-esteem? Are you ready to begin the journey of healing, self-acceptance, and calmness in your life? I believe we heal when we are heard. Reach out and let's begin that process together to find relief, joy, peace of mind, and the ability to thrive! We will use techniques to access your inner, highest self because that's who you really are!
My experiences include over a decade of work in the medical system where I assisted patients, families, and caregivers dealing with grief, chronic illness, trauma, life-transitions and caregiver burnout.
Does something feel off in your life? Do your struggles include anxiety, depression, past traumas, or low self-esteem? Are you ready to begin the journey of healing, self-acceptance, and calmness in your life? I believe we heal when we are heard. Reach out and let's begin that process together to find relief, joy, peace of mind, and the ability to thrive! We will use techniques to access your inner, highest self because that's who you really are!
(910) 807-8047 View (910) 807-8047
Photo of Lauren Baker, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Lauren Baker
Counselor, MA, LMCHA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Lauren is an experience clinician who has worked in a variety of settings before finding a home specializing in women's health, sexual disorders and couple's work. She has certifications in Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) and wrote her thesis on vulvodynia. Lauren is down to earth, candid and empathic clinician who hopes clients can find freedom and play.
Lauren is an experience clinician who has worked in a variety of settings before finding a home specializing in women's health, sexual disorders and couple's work. She has certifications in Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) and wrote her thesis on vulvodynia. Lauren is down to earth, candid and empathic clinician who hopes clients can find freedom and play.
(984) 538-7591 View (984) 538-7591
Photo of Romayne Mappes, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Romayne Mappes
Counselor, MA, LCPC-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614
I provide services for clients who I believe have the capacity to resolve their own problems with my assistance. I offer a professional relationship with my clients to assist them in exploring and resolving difficult issues. I believe that as people become more accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding happiness and contentment in their lives. Self-awareness and self-acceptance are goals that sometimes take a long time to achieve. While some clients may need only a few counseling sessions to feel complete, others may require months. I offer a caring, empathic space to explore, heal and to try new ways of being.
I provide services for clients who I believe have the capacity to resolve their own problems with my assistance. I offer a professional relationship with my clients to assist them in exploring and resolving difficult issues. I believe that as people become more accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding happiness and contentment in their lives. Self-awareness and self-acceptance are goals that sometimes take a long time to achieve. While some clients may need only a few counseling sessions to feel complete, others may require months. I offer a caring, empathic space to explore, heal and to try new ways of being.
(240) 270-2640 View (240) 270-2640
Photo of Cecelia Ann Bailey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Cecelia Ann Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I provide therapy to adolescents and adults, using a client-centered, eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client. My preferred treatment approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I believe that change happens when people are given the guidance they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live a fulfilling, happy life. My areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, teens with self-injurious behaviors/behavior issues, phase of life changes and life stresses.
I provide therapy to adolescents and adults, using a client-centered, eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client. My preferred treatment approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I believe that change happens when people are given the guidance they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live a fulfilling, happy life. My areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, teens with self-injurious behaviors/behavior issues, phase of life changes and life stresses.
(919) 583-7910 View (919) 583-7910
Photo of Jennifer Cameron, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Jennifer Cameron
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
In a world where stress often manifests silently through medical issues, unexplained dysregulation, or unsettling dreams, understanding the "why" behind our struggles can feel like searching for light in darkness. Specializing in women's health and trauma, I offer a compassionate space for you to explore and understand the intricate web of your experiences. Life’s stressors don’t exist in a vacuum—they're often echoes of past challenges, reemerging in our most vulnerable moments. I'm here to help if you find yourself asking, "Why is this happening?", feeling unmoored by emotions, or facing chronic conditions with no clear source.
In a world where stress often manifests silently through medical issues, unexplained dysregulation, or unsettling dreams, understanding the "why" behind our struggles can feel like searching for light in darkness. Specializing in women's health and trauma, I offer a compassionate space for you to explore and understand the intricate web of your experiences. Life’s stressors don’t exist in a vacuum—they're often echoes of past challenges, reemerging in our most vulnerable moments. I'm here to help if you find yourself asking, "Why is this happening?", feeling unmoored by emotions, or facing chronic conditions with no clear source.
(919) 694-6866 x5 View (919) 694-6866 x5
Photo of Liz Minnich, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Liz Minnich
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
Welcome! I hold the belief that every person is inherently good, lovable, capable, and resilient. Ideally, my role is to support clients in discovering their true selves in a safe, and caring environment. Simply put, I encourage all of my clients to come as they are. ​ I commit to create a space in which we can reflect on the past and the present and practice new ways to connect authentically with others, quiet the inner critic, and live a life lead by their unique values.
Welcome! I hold the belief that every person is inherently good, lovable, capable, and resilient. Ideally, my role is to support clients in discovering their true selves in a safe, and caring environment. Simply put, I encourage all of my clients to come as they are. ​ I commit to create a space in which we can reflect on the past and the present and practice new ways to connect authentically with others, quiet the inner critic, and live a life lead by their unique values.
(919) 794-8326 View (919) 794-8326
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.