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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of C. Anne Whitfield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Rocky Point, NC
C. Anne Whitfield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
Anne treats a variety of clinical disorders, including mood disorders, attention and focus issues, stress management, relationship/martial issues, domestic violence and child abuse, grief and loss, women’s issues, and cultural lifestyle issues. Anne has been active in providing services to active-duty service members and their families coping with domestic violence. Additionally, she has a passion for working with teachers that teach exceptional children or children with challenging behavioral issues in the classroom. As well as individuals coping with chronic health conditions to cope and process their illness.
Anne treats a variety of clinical disorders, including mood disorders, attention and focus issues, stress management, relationship/martial issues, domestic violence and child abuse, grief and loss, women’s issues, and cultural lifestyle issues. Anne has been active in providing services to active-duty service members and their families coping with domestic violence. Additionally, she has a passion for working with teachers that teach exceptional children or children with challenging behavioral issues in the classroom. As well as individuals coping with chronic health conditions to cope and process their illness.
(910) 335-4253 View (910) 335-4253
Photo of Char Boyette, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Rocky Point, NC
Char Boyette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, EMDRIA, CCS, MDiv, JD
Verified Verified
Castle Hayne, NC 28429
I am a person on the journey of wellness myself so I can empathize with the pain of feeling isolated and misunderstood, stuck in old patterns and unable to break unhelpful cycles of abuse, trauma, poverty, addictions, and multiple mental health challenges.
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
I am a person on the journey of wellness myself so I can empathize with the pain of feeling isolated and misunderstood, stuck in old patterns and unable to break unhelpful cycles of abuse, trauma, poverty, addictions, and multiple mental health challenges.
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
(828) 450-2919 View (828) 450-2919
Photo of Jennifer Witkowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rocky Point, NC
Jennifer Witkowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Burgaw, NC 28425  (Online Only)
Real change means real work. You must put forth effort and action to have a deeper understanding of the old patterns that exist. I hope to develop a safe, open relationship in which you feel safe to look at your patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that are holding you back from where you want to be, and develop a pattern of self awareness, and explore the possibilities before you. Telling our stories aloud allows us to have the conscious choice to move forward in the direction we want to take it
Real change means real work. You must put forth effort and action to have a deeper understanding of the old patterns that exist. I hope to develop a safe, open relationship in which you feel safe to look at your patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that are holding you back from where you want to be, and develop a pattern of self awareness, and explore the possibilities before you. Telling our stories aloud allows us to have the conscious choice to move forward in the direction we want to take it
(910) 390-8127 View (910) 390-8127

Online Therapists

Photo of Amy G Therriault, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Rocky Point, NC
Amy G Therriault
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunn, NC 28334  (Online Only)
What thoughts race through your mind as you go through the day? What thoughts have become obstacles? Do those thoughts hold you captive in states of anxiety and depression? Do they make you feel unsafe, insecure, and isolated, even when we are surrounded by others? Do these thoughts make relationships complicated and responsibilities seem impossible? Are your mental and emotional stressors effecting your physical well-being in ways like physical pain, fatigue, sensory intolerance, brain fog, and inability to focus? Exploring your thoughts and feelings can be difficult, but you do not have to walk through this process alone.
What thoughts race through your mind as you go through the day? What thoughts have become obstacles? Do those thoughts hold you captive in states of anxiety and depression? Do they make you feel unsafe, insecure, and isolated, even when we are surrounded by others? Do these thoughts make relationships complicated and responsibilities seem impossible? Are your mental and emotional stressors effecting your physical well-being in ways like physical pain, fatigue, sensory intolerance, brain fog, and inability to focus? Exploring your thoughts and feelings can be difficult, but you do not have to walk through this process alone.
(919) 646-2779 View (919) 646-2779
Photo of Jennifer McLucas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rocky Point, NC
Jennifer McLucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MHA, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
I am prepared to work with individuals that struggle with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, addictions, chronic illness and life transition issues.
We all face times in our lives when the challenges we face may generate a sense of being overwhelmed and feeling uncertain. Such feelings can often be our signal to seek change. Therapy can be a powerful tool in obtaining healthy change, growth and empowerment during the challenging times in our lives. Working cooperatively with a trained therapist often provides individuals the time and space needed to examine these challenges and address how thoughts, feelings and behavior influence the ability to live intentionally.
I am prepared to work with individuals that struggle with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, addictions, chronic illness and life transition issues.
We all face times in our lives when the challenges we face may generate a sense of being overwhelmed and feeling uncertain. Such feelings can often be our signal to seek change. Therapy can be a powerful tool in obtaining healthy change, growth and empowerment during the challenging times in our lives. Working cooperatively with a trained therapist often provides individuals the time and space needed to examine these challenges and address how thoughts, feelings and behavior influence the ability to live intentionally.
(919) 330-0179 View (919) 330-0179
Photo of Patricia A Toth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rocky Point, NC
Patricia A Toth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28560  (Online Only)
Rather than identifying and categorizing the presence or absence of symptoms of illness, my practice seeks to uncover the psychological health in my clients.
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
Rather than identifying and categorizing the presence or absence of symptoms of illness, my practice seeks to uncover the psychological health in my clients.
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
(252) 392-4371 View (252) 392-4371
Photo of Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling in Rocky Point, NC
Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling
MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, NC 27889  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be…a bit of a rollercoaster at times and can often feel unmanageable. If you find yourself becoming bogged down by life’s twists and turns, I’m here to help! My name is Courtney Howard and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. My mission is to provide a safe space for you to explore, repair, and grow. Taking the steps to begin a counseling journey isn’t easy and I’m proud of you for searching for a therapist to fit your needs. Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, suffering with illness, grieving, or struggling with mood? Then I may be the perfect fit for you!
Life can be…a bit of a rollercoaster at times and can often feel unmanageable. If you find yourself becoming bogged down by life’s twists and turns, I’m here to help! My name is Courtney Howard and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. My mission is to provide a safe space for you to explore, repair, and grow. Taking the steps to begin a counseling journey isn’t easy and I’m proud of you for searching for a therapist to fit your needs. Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, suffering with illness, grieving, or struggling with mood? Then I may be the perfect fit for you!
(252) 486-5072 View (252) 486-5072
Photo of Jennifer Tremblay Pettee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rocky Point, NC
Jennifer Tremblay Pettee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cape Carteret, NC 28584  (Online Only)
Together, we can work to reduce emotional pain and stress and instead develop an overall sense of wellness.
Overwhelmed? We can be overwhelmed by many things; work/family demands, grief, romantic relationships, health, traumatic events, and so on. Sometimes, even when we feel like we SHOULD be happy, we are not. At Bonne Journée PLLC, I take a "Big Picture" approach to help empower clients to sort out what is meaningful and helpful in their lives.
Together, we can work to reduce emotional pain and stress and instead develop an overall sense of wellness.
Overwhelmed? We can be overwhelmed by many things; work/family demands, grief, romantic relationships, health, traumatic events, and so on. Sometimes, even when we feel like we SHOULD be happy, we are not. At Bonne Journée PLLC, I take a "Big Picture" approach to help empower clients to sort out what is meaningful and helpful in their lives.
(252) 542-2160 View (252) 542-2160
Photo of Rob Moser, Counselor in Rocky Point, NC
Rob Moser
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
(910) 812-8310 View (910) 812-8310
Photo of Jasmine Cope, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rocky Point, NC
Jasmine Cope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27539  (Online Only)
With compassion and understanding you can sit with pain, distress or contemplate hard decisions to reach balance, fulfillment and peace.
I am here to help you seek balance, feel better, or reach that next level of life gratification, You've already taken the first step by being here. Yes, things can and do get better, sometimes it's change, sometimes it's reflection, and sometimes it's a power within you that heels the heart and opens the mind to the core of the issue and to the possibilities beyond it.
With compassion and understanding you can sit with pain, distress or contemplate hard decisions to reach balance, fulfillment and peace.
I am here to help you seek balance, feel better, or reach that next level of life gratification, You've already taken the first step by being here. Yes, things can and do get better, sometimes it's change, sometimes it's reflection, and sometimes it's a power within you that heels the heart and opens the mind to the core of the issue and to the possibilities beyond it.
(984) 203-9593 View (984) 203-9593
Photo of Kerrie Walters, Pre-Licensed Professional in Rocky Point, NC
Kerrie Walters
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA, CEAP
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526  (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 Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC , Counselor in Rocky Point, NC
Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LCMHCS , LCAS, CCS, LPC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562  (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 Betsy Newsome Moody, Pre-Licensed Professional in Rocky Point, NC
Betsy Newsome Moody
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
My areas of expertise include grief, loss, health-related concerns, chronic illness, stress management, anxiety, caregiver burnout, and trauma.
Do you have something you need to talk about? Trudging through life with stress, grief, anxiety, or other burdens can feel lonely and exhausting. Address your mental health needs through conversation and engage in therapeutic interventions to bring positive change in your life. Exploring how your mental health has negative impacts on your body and your daily life will improve your well-being.
My areas of expertise include grief, loss, health-related concerns, chronic illness, stress management, anxiety, caregiver burnout, and trauma.
Do you have something you need to talk about? Trudging through life with stress, grief, anxiety, or other burdens can feel lonely and exhausting. Address your mental health needs through conversation and engage in therapeutic interventions to bring positive change in your life. Exploring how your mental health has negative impacts on your body and your daily life will improve your well-being.
(919) 372-0687 View (919) 372-0687
Photo of DeBlaker Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rocky Point, NC
DeBlaker Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27527  (Online Only)
Accepting clients for video appointments only. Is everyone telling you its ok to be a little blue? Do you feel depressed, disappointed in the way life is going? Infertility, becoming a mom, being a mom of young children, even approaching an empty nest all can cause stress and anxiety. Or is your relationship or marriage troubled and you don't know how to fix it? Even life transitions such as a career change, loss of a job, diagnosis of a chronic illness or chronic pain can cause you to be stressed or anxious.
Accepting clients for video appointments only. Is everyone telling you its ok to be a little blue? Do you feel depressed, disappointed in the way life is going? Infertility, becoming a mom, being a mom of young children, even approaching an empty nest all can cause stress and anxiety. Or is your relationship or marriage troubled and you don't know how to fix it? Even life transitions such as a career change, loss of a job, diagnosis of a chronic illness or chronic pain can cause you to be stressed or anxious.
(919) 629-9045 View (919) 629-9045
Photo of Crystal Shaw, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Rocky Point, NC
Crystal Shaw
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469  (Online Only)
I have availability for Friday morning appointments. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor offering online/virtual therapy with over 16 years of experience in counseling. I have worked for public organizations for most of my career, which means I have experience working with a variety of different people. I specialize in anxiety disorders, career dissatisfaction/stress management, and life transitions/adjustments (i.e. college, career switch, divorce, aging, onset of illness).
I have availability for Friday morning appointments. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor offering online/virtual therapy with over 16 years of experience in counseling. I have worked for public organizations for most of my career, which means I have experience working with a variety of different people. I specialize in anxiety disorders, career dissatisfaction/stress management, and life transitions/adjustments (i.e. college, career switch, divorce, aging, onset of illness).
(910) 430-3807 View (910) 430-3807
Photo of Olinda Davidson in Rocky Point, NC
Olinda Davidson
LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
You may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious from trying to hold it all together for everyone and everything. You put on a “happy” face and push through the day only to wonder if you will ever feel better. Until now, you’ve been able to manage it on your own, but it’s starting to affect other areas of your life and you can’t pretend everything is ok anymore. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, a relationship or health concerns but wherever the pain is coming from you are tired of feeling alone and stuck. You want to make lasting changes, but deciding where to start feels impossible. I’m here and I get it.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious from trying to hold it all together for everyone and everything. You put on a “happy” face and push through the day only to wonder if you will ever feel better. Until now, you’ve been able to manage it on your own, but it’s starting to affect other areas of your life and you can’t pretend everything is ok anymore. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, a relationship or health concerns but wherever the pain is coming from you are tired of feeling alone and stuck. You want to make lasting changes, but deciding where to start feels impossible. I’m here and I get it.
(252) 582-6024 View (252) 582-6024
Photo of Marcy Arnold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rocky Point, NC
Marcy Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
(252) 772-9378 View (252) 772-9378
Photo of Dr. Ralph Fox II, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rocky Point, NC
Dr. Ralph Fox II
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
(910) 216-4872 View (910) 216-4872
Photo of Anna-Kate Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rocky Point, NC
Anna-Kate Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
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 New Direction Wellness, PLLC, Counselor in Rocky Point, NC
New Direction Wellness, PLLC
Counselor, DC, MAEd, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28311  (Online Only)
After a decade of helping individuals with back & joint pain as a chiropractor, I noticed that my patients who’s pain kept returning had one thing in common.
Accepting Clients...Is stress, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, phobias and past trauma stopping you from enjoying life? Don't know how to take your power back? Well, let me let you in on a little secret. All problems come from within and I help you not only go within and find the answer, but also make peace with the answer so you can finally live the life you are meant to live.....a life full of happiness, joy, tranquility, success, and prosperity instead of living with feelings of defeat, desperation, disappointment, and hopelessness.
After a decade of helping individuals with back & joint pain as a chiropractor, I noticed that my patients who’s pain kept returning had one thing in common.
Accepting Clients...Is stress, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, phobias and past trauma stopping you from enjoying life? Don't know how to take your power back? Well, let me let you in on a little secret. All problems come from within and I help you not only go within and find the answer, but also make peace with the answer so you can finally live the life you are meant to live.....a life full of happiness, joy, tranquility, success, and prosperity instead of living with feelings of defeat, desperation, disappointment, and hopelessness.
(910) 490-4067 View (910) 490-4067

See more therapy options for Rocky Point

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.