Chronic Pain Therapists in Randleman, NC

Photo of Litha Charles, Asheboro Counseling and Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Randleman, NC
Litha Charles, Asheboro Counseling and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Randleman, NC 27317
I am a North Carolina Board Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor. Prior to working in Asheboro, I have worked in public school and university settings and have ten years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of concerns. I offer individual counseling for adults, adolescents, and children, as well as marital/premarital and family counseling. I am equipped and interested in integrating one's spiritual values and beliefs into the counseling process to the extent the client allows them to be.
I am a North Carolina Board Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor. Prior to working in Asheboro, I have worked in public school and university settings and have ten years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of concerns. I offer individual counseling for adults, adolescents, and children, as well as marital/premarital and family counseling. I am equipped and interested in integrating one's spiritual values and beliefs into the counseling process to the extent the client allows them to be.
(336) 656-2639 View (336) 656-2639

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mary Cottam Keever, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Randleman, NC
Mary Cottam Keever
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHC
Verified Verified
Archdale, NC 27263
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
(336) 916-9181 View (336) 916-9181
Photo of Britta Marie Starke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Randleman, NC
Britta Marie Starke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27406
Not accepting new clients
Welcome and congratulations on choosing to embark on a different journey!! I have spent 25 yrs getting to know people of all ages: 6 - 80 years young. I find my passion lies with ages 17 and older. There seems to be a common struggle with finding a sense of meaning and purpose, or the loss of such, while juggling the demands of school, career, relationships and society. The more we lose ourselves, along the way, the more we lose the ability to cope with challenges in a healthy way. I believe in walking along side individuals in the exploration of what is missing or maybe not yet found! Are you ready to get started?
Welcome and congratulations on choosing to embark on a different journey!! I have spent 25 yrs getting to know people of all ages: 6 - 80 years young. I find my passion lies with ages 17 and older. There seems to be a common struggle with finding a sense of meaning and purpose, or the loss of such, while juggling the demands of school, career, relationships and society. The more we lose ourselves, along the way, the more we lose the ability to cope with challenges in a healthy way. I believe in walking along side individuals in the exploration of what is missing or maybe not yet found! Are you ready to get started?
(984) 237-3053 View (984) 237-3053

Online Therapists

Photo of Michelle McDevitt-Askew, Marriage & Family Therapist in Randleman, NC
Michelle McDevitt-Askew
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
There are seasons in life when the opportunity to grow can come from both joyful and challenging circumstances or complicated issues and relationships. It is my hope that in the safe,non-judgmental space of therapy we can begin to discover your core resiliency, strengths and create awareness for integrating healthy coping and communication skills for healing. I enjoy helping couples discover relational dynamics and patterns that keep them from enjoying a safe, close and vibrant relationship. I am well suited to work with families and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief and life stage transitioning.
There are seasons in life when the opportunity to grow can come from both joyful and challenging circumstances or complicated issues and relationships. It is my hope that in the safe,non-judgmental space of therapy we can begin to discover your core resiliency, strengths and create awareness for integrating healthy coping and communication skills for healing. I enjoy helping couples discover relational dynamics and patterns that keep them from enjoying a safe, close and vibrant relationship. I am well suited to work with families and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief and life stage transitioning.
(980) 263-9313 View (980) 263-9313
Photo of Karen O Harmon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Randleman, NC
Karen O Harmon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I work with individual, couples or families to get to the root of their pain.
Has your body taken over your mind? Are panic attacks or weird physical symptoms hijacking your sense of safety? You are taking the first important step! Symptoms are trying to tell you something. Do you feel as though you could use some help being able to express yourself or make yourself understood? Would you like to feel as though you have some control over the way your body reacts to situations that seem out of your control? I can help you find the answers to these questions because I believe you deserve to live a beautiful life and develop greater resilience when life seems too hard. I see you. Maybe I can help you process it?
I work with individual, couples or families to get to the root of their pain.
Has your body taken over your mind? Are panic attacks or weird physical symptoms hijacking your sense of safety? You are taking the first important step! Symptoms are trying to tell you something. Do you feel as though you could use some help being able to express yourself or make yourself understood? Would you like to feel as though you have some control over the way your body reacts to situations that seem out of your control? I can help you find the answers to these questions because I believe you deserve to live a beautiful life and develop greater resilience when life seems too hard. I see you. Maybe I can help you process it?
(919) 858-2528 View (919) 858-2528
Photo of Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC , Counselor in Randleman, NC
Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LCMHCS , LCAS, CCS, LPC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713  (Online Only)
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
(252) 336-9687 View (252) 336-9687
Photo of Patricia S. Duggan, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Randleman, NC
Patricia S. Duggan
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27608  (Online Only)
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain & society makes it hard to heal. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain & society makes it hard to heal. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
(910) 400-1524 View (910) 400-1524
Photo of Margaret L Veatch, Psychologist in Randleman, NC
Margaret L Veatch
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you need someone to listen - adults, adolescents and children are more than welcome. My background includes nursing, social work as well as clinical psychology. I have a lot of experience with clients with complex clinical issues. My professional experience enables me to work with mental illness diagnoses as well as general adjustment concerns. I enjoy meeting with families and providing intergenerational family supports.
If you need someone to listen - adults, adolescents and children are more than welcome. My background includes nursing, social work as well as clinical psychology. I have a lot of experience with clients with complex clinical issues. My professional experience enables me to work with mental illness diagnoses as well as general adjustment concerns. I enjoy meeting with families and providing intergenerational family supports.
(336) 891-3176 View (336) 891-3176
Photo of Wellness Counseling PLLC in Randleman, NC
Wellness Counseling PLLC
LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27127  (Online Only)
I only work with adults, and my specific area of expertise is in anxiety disorders, working with survivors of abuse, chronic illness, completing HRT/gender confirmation evaluations, and I love working with my LGBTQ+ folks!.
Let’s talk therapy! Sometimes therapy sessions consist of talking about recipes, animals, the book you’re reading, laughing, crying, crying and laughing at the same time, experiencing all the emotions, having a place to vent, coping with trauma, and therapy can feel really really challenging, and I’m here for ALL of it. I strive to help you grow by creating a trusting, transparent, empathetic, safe, and gently confrontational relationship. I view people as autonomous human beings, and SO capable, (even on the days you're not feeling that), because after all, up until now, you have survived your worst days.
I only work with adults, and my specific area of expertise is in anxiety disorders, working with survivors of abuse, chronic illness, completing HRT/gender confirmation evaluations, and I love working with my LGBTQ+ folks!.
Let’s talk therapy! Sometimes therapy sessions consist of talking about recipes, animals, the book you’re reading, laughing, crying, crying and laughing at the same time, experiencing all the emotions, having a place to vent, coping with trauma, and therapy can feel really really challenging, and I’m here for ALL of it. I strive to help you grow by creating a trusting, transparent, empathetic, safe, and gently confrontational relationship. I view people as autonomous human beings, and SO capable, (even on the days you're not feeling that), because after all, up until now, you have survived your worst days.
(844) 258-0947 View (844) 258-0947
Photo of Daniel Pak, Counselor in Randleman, NC
Daniel Pak
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
People commonly say life is a journey full of ups and downs, but sometimes we feel our journey is only going down. We are left feeling lost, trapped, and in pain. Sadly, we do not always have the help or the resources to get through these moments due to various circumstances in our life. Therapy is not a fix-all solution, but it can be the catalyst to taking steps out of what can feel like a bottomless pit and give us the strength to face our problems. I hope that I can be a steadfast presence for support through whatever you are experiencing and help you find your path through your darkest of valleys.
People commonly say life is a journey full of ups and downs, but sometimes we feel our journey is only going down. We are left feeling lost, trapped, and in pain. Sadly, we do not always have the help or the resources to get through these moments due to various circumstances in our life. Therapy is not a fix-all solution, but it can be the catalyst to taking steps out of what can feel like a bottomless pit and give us the strength to face our problems. I hope that I can be a steadfast presence for support through whatever you are experiencing and help you find your path through your darkest of valleys.
(704) 703-5458 View (704) 703-5458
Photo of Julie Hardman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Randleman, NC
Julie Hardman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
I spent years working with clients in Wake and Durham counties and still do! Are you struggling day in day out and want to see something change? I'd love to get to know you and collaborate on how you might cultivate a more fulfilling, less distressing life. I counsel women ages 21+ living with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain and illness; relationship issues, work stressors, major life transitions, grief and loss, creative block, learning self advocacy. I am an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. You can learn to flourish despite issues you may now see as impediments. Let me walk with you on this journey. Let's find your joy!
I spent years working with clients in Wake and Durham counties and still do! Are you struggling day in day out and want to see something change? I'd love to get to know you and collaborate on how you might cultivate a more fulfilling, less distressing life. I counsel women ages 21+ living with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain and illness; relationship issues, work stressors, major life transitions, grief and loss, creative block, learning self advocacy. I am an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. You can learn to flourish despite issues you may now see as impediments. Let me walk with you on this journey. Let's find your joy!
(336) 203-7986 View (336) 203-7986
Photo of Gina Roberts, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Randleman, NC
Gina Roberts
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
Recognizing that not all of one’s deepest pain and longing is merely personal, but arises in relationship to the bias, prejudice, and privilege of the dominant culture, I am committed to honoring the dignity, diversity, courage, and shared humanity of all who seek my services.
Whether hope or discouragement bring you to this site, it is my privilege to offer you a sanctuary of solace, deep listening, and confidential guidance. Maybe you feel stuck or directionless? Are you needing support and guidance through a life transition, grief, illness, a troubled relationship, spiritual crisis or broken dreams? Whatever your concerns -- past or present, large or small, clear or vaguely defined, personal or interpersonal -- our experience together is designed to help you discover the inherent possibility, healing & change available to you as you embrace life more fully from the wisdom of who you truly are.
Recognizing that not all of one’s deepest pain and longing is merely personal, but arises in relationship to the bias, prejudice, and privilege of the dominant culture, I am committed to honoring the dignity, diversity, courage, and shared humanity of all who seek my services.
Whether hope or discouragement bring you to this site, it is my privilege to offer you a sanctuary of solace, deep listening, and confidential guidance. Maybe you feel stuck or directionless? Are you needing support and guidance through a life transition, grief, illness, a troubled relationship, spiritual crisis or broken dreams? Whatever your concerns -- past or present, large or small, clear or vaguely defined, personal or interpersonal -- our experience together is designed to help you discover the inherent possibility, healing & change available to you as you embrace life more fully from the wisdom of who you truly are.
(919) 813-7285 View (919) 813-7285
Photo of Michelle Mobley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Randleman, NC
Michelle Mobley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, RYT200, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Accepting new clients interested in EMDR. Do you feel like a part of you is stuck in the past or perhaps a part of you is always thinking about the future? Maybe you feel the tension in your body and hear the endless chatter of your thoughts? Intellectually you know you are good enough and lovable but there's a feeling that lingers. You might be considering that your physical pain could have roots in your thoughts/feelings. Perhaps you've experienced something really difficult and challenging. Maybe trauma(s)? Clients that work with me are aware of the mind-body connection & are looking for an integrative approach to therapy.
Accepting new clients interested in EMDR. Do you feel like a part of you is stuck in the past or perhaps a part of you is always thinking about the future? Maybe you feel the tension in your body and hear the endless chatter of your thoughts? Intellectually you know you are good enough and lovable but there's a feeling that lingers. You might be considering that your physical pain could have roots in your thoughts/feelings. Perhaps you've experienced something really difficult and challenging. Maybe trauma(s)? Clients that work with me are aware of the mind-body connection & are looking for an integrative approach to therapy.
(919) 739-3323 View (919) 739-3323
Photo of Rock of Refuge Counseling Center, Counselor in Randleman, NC
Rock of Refuge Counseling Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
As the instruments of change, it is a privilege and honor to come alongside each person we support, as they navigate the uncertainty and pain that often comes as a result of our individual lived experiences.
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
As the instruments of change, it is a privilege and honor to come alongside each person we support, as they navigate the uncertainty and pain that often comes as a result of our individual lived experiences.
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
(980) 246-4177 View (980) 246-4177
Photo of Leigh Zick Dongre, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Randleman, NC
Leigh Zick Dongre
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
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 The International Center for Wellness PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Randleman, NC
The International Center for Wellness PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
(704) 327-5647 x101 View (704) 327-5647 x101
Photo of Myriam Rabaste, Licensed Professional Counselor in Randleman, NC
Myriam Rabaste
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, EMDR, II
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
(704) 870-2290 View (704) 870-2290
Photo of Bethany Minster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Randleman, NC
Bethany Minster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Welcome! I am so glad you are here! My name is Bethany and I am an Outpatient Psychotherapist at Three Oaks Behavioral Health and Wellness. My hope is that you find a space to feel heard and understood. Whether or not you are new to therapy or not, I know it takes a lot of strength to reach out. I would love to support you in your journey whether navigating chronic illness ,life transitions, interpersonal conflict and setting boundaries, finding freedom from eating disorders/disordered eating, anxiety and depression.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here! My name is Bethany and I am an Outpatient Psychotherapist at Three Oaks Behavioral Health and Wellness. My hope is that you find a space to feel heard and understood. Whether or not you are new to therapy or not, I know it takes a lot of strength to reach out. I would love to support you in your journey whether navigating chronic illness ,life transitions, interpersonal conflict and setting boundaries, finding freedom from eating disorders/disordered eating, anxiety and depression.
(919) 276-8572 View (919) 276-8572
Photo of Tiffany Schiffner, Psychologist in Randleman, NC
Tiffany Schiffner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28278  (Online Only)
Dr. Schiffner is a Latinx licensed psychologist who provides culturally inclusive, empowerment and compassion-based psychotherapy focused on heart healing. She offers individual therapy to adults, older adults (seniors) and psychological assessments to Veterans. Dr. Schiffner specializes in working with diverse client populations and combines cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, solution focused, sex positivity and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients with relationship difficulties, chronic health and pain concerns, and life transitions. She is trauma-informed and honors the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit.
Dr. Schiffner is a Latinx licensed psychologist who provides culturally inclusive, empowerment and compassion-based psychotherapy focused on heart healing. She offers individual therapy to adults, older adults (seniors) and psychological assessments to Veterans. Dr. Schiffner specializes in working with diverse client populations and combines cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, solution focused, sex positivity and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients with relationship difficulties, chronic health and pain concerns, and life transitions. She is trauma-informed and honors the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit.
(321) 730-3872 View (321) 730-3872
Photo of The Healing Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Randleman, NC
The Healing Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
Pain is motivating, and we offer customized treatment to meet your needs.
Our definition of recovery is working towards our truest and highest self, not just working towards abstinence. We are trauma specialists in active recovery and focus on healing trauma while reinstating a sense of self. We believe that if you do the hard work, and you keep coming back, you will get better. Our therapists are relationship experts in developing the roadmap to other relationships through self.
Pain is motivating, and we offer customized treatment to meet your needs.
Our definition of recovery is working towards our truest and highest self, not just working towards abstinence. We are trauma specialists in active recovery and focus on healing trauma while reinstating a sense of self. We believe that if you do the hard work, and you keep coming back, you will get better. Our therapists are relationship experts in developing the roadmap to other relationships through self.
(704) 275-0441 View (704) 275-0441

See more therapy options for Randleman

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.