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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Rural Hall, NC
Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCASA, CEO
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
(336) 502-8218 View (336) 502-8218

Online Therapists

Photo of Rachel Garfield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Rural Hall, NC
Rachel Garfield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
All pain creates stress which intensifies the pain, becoming a vicious cycle that can lead to anxiety and depression, disruptive relations with others, and despair.
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addiction and relationships with adults with the goal of healing the client's relationship within themselves and with others. We will work through your past to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
All pain creates stress which intensifies the pain, becoming a vicious cycle that can lead to anxiety and depression, disruptive relations with others, and despair.
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addiction and relationships with adults with the goal of healing the client's relationship within themselves and with others. We will work through your past to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
(919) 535-4925 View (919) 535-4925
Photo of Sarah Harrocks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rural Hall, NC
Sarah Harrocks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMBT
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
We are all journeying through life. At times the path you are traveling becomes unclear and may require action to move the debris blocking your way. Debris may show up as depression, anxiety, self-doubt, or even fear. There may also have been something along your journey which caused you great pain that could be hindering your ability to move forward in life. Counseling can support you with clearing the way so that you may see yourself and your path more clearly, allowing you to live the life you most desire.
We are all journeying through life. At times the path you are traveling becomes unclear and may require action to move the debris blocking your way. Debris may show up as depression, anxiety, self-doubt, or even fear. There may also have been something along your journey which caused you great pain that could be hindering your ability to move forward in life. Counseling can support you with clearing the way so that you may see yourself and your path more clearly, allowing you to live the life you most desire.
(919) 858-6073 View (919) 858-6073
Photo of Cynthia D Hughes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rural Hall, NC
Cynthia D Hughes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive training in bereavement, chronic and terminal illness, and trauma.
Good psychotherapy requires a "match" between client(s) and therapist and avoids "stretching the client to fit the couch." Finding the right psychotherapist involves both clinical skill and personality match. A good therapist is genuine, warm, and offers a human relationship with active listening, guidance, and good advice. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, what I offer as a clinician is an active style of psychotherapy with a high regard for where you are in your journey, what your goals are, and what things can be pointed out and changed along the path to growth and improved relationships.
I have extensive training in bereavement, chronic and terminal illness, and trauma.
Good psychotherapy requires a "match" between client(s) and therapist and avoids "stretching the client to fit the couch." Finding the right psychotherapist involves both clinical skill and personality match. A good therapist is genuine, warm, and offers a human relationship with active listening, guidance, and good advice. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, what I offer as a clinician is an active style of psychotherapy with a high regard for where you are in your journey, what your goals are, and what things can be pointed out and changed along the path to growth and improved relationships.
(984) 203-6882 View (984) 203-6882
Photo of Jaclyn Sappah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rural Hall, NC
Jaclyn Sappah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278  (Online Only)
Are you searching for a way to feel better, to feel good enough? Maybe you are longing to love and accept yourself, to feel secure within yourself? You might realize that work, relationships, and/or overindulging in food or alcohol is not doing the trick. Dealing with ongoing family issues, sadness from loss, comparing yourself to your friends, and always putting yourself last might be overwhelming. Maybe you hope to make peace with your past traumas and be able to move forward freely. Are you drawn toward the mind-body-spirit healing approach and ready to get to the root of your trauma and emotional pain?
Are you searching for a way to feel better, to feel good enough? Maybe you are longing to love and accept yourself, to feel secure within yourself? You might realize that work, relationships, and/or overindulging in food or alcohol is not doing the trick. Dealing with ongoing family issues, sadness from loss, comparing yourself to your friends, and always putting yourself last might be overwhelming. Maybe you hope to make peace with your past traumas and be able to move forward freely. Are you drawn toward the mind-body-spirit healing approach and ready to get to the root of your trauma and emotional pain?
(347) 625-1110 View (347) 625-1110
Photo of Triangle Wellness and Recovery PLLC in Rural Hall, NC
Triangle Wellness and Recovery PLLC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
Our team takes an integrative, cross-disciplinary approach to whole-person wellness and recovery. The clients we work with struggle with a broad range of physical and mental health symptoms and conditions including anxiety and mood disorders, depression and bipolar depression, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, chronic pain, substance or alcohol abuse, compulsive behaviors, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. We tailor your treatment plan to start where you are right now and help you build a meaningful, satisfying life that is unique to your personal goals and desires.
Our team takes an integrative, cross-disciplinary approach to whole-person wellness and recovery. The clients we work with struggle with a broad range of physical and mental health symptoms and conditions including anxiety and mood disorders, depression and bipolar depression, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, chronic pain, substance or alcohol abuse, compulsive behaviors, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. We tailor your treatment plan to start where you are right now and help you build a meaningful, satisfying life that is unique to your personal goals and desires.
(984) 205-8011 View (984) 205-8011
Photo of Christi Bemister, PsyD, PLLC, Psychologist in Rural Hall, NC
Christi Bemister, PsyD, PLLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526  (Online Only)
I am a trauma informed therapist, with 30+ years’ experience, my own healing journey, and clinical education focused on chronic pain & illness.
I invite you to a safe and compassionate space to untangle and release difficulties that interfere with your quality or functioning in life. Taking a look at hurts can help normalize and clarify confusing or negative behavior, thoughts, and emotions to integrate past experiences. Embodiment, mindfulness, and somatic experiential practices lead you to gain physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. These practical techniques, along with education, and therapeutic processing will guide you along your path to integrated health and the resilience needed to manage the most stressful circumstances. You become your own best friend.
I am a trauma informed therapist, with 30+ years’ experience, my own healing journey, and clinical education focused on chronic pain & illness.
I invite you to a safe and compassionate space to untangle and release difficulties that interfere with your quality or functioning in life. Taking a look at hurts can help normalize and clarify confusing or negative behavior, thoughts, and emotions to integrate past experiences. Embodiment, mindfulness, and somatic experiential practices lead you to gain physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. These practical techniques, along with education, and therapeutic processing will guide you along your path to integrated health and the resilience needed to manage the most stressful circumstances. You become your own best friend.
(734) 796-1686 View (734) 796-1686
Photo of Sacred Listener, Counselor in Rural Hall, NC
Sacred Listener
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
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 Jennifer C Franklin, Psychologist in Rural Hall, NC
Jennifer C Franklin
Psychologist, PhD, MACP
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705
Waitlist for new clients
I work best with adult individuals and couples who wish to address any of the following: anxiety; mind-body issues like IBS, chronic pain, back pain, etc; stress and trauma; relationship difficulties, life transitions, cultural differences, or spiritual issues; and depression. Therapy is individualized, determined by each client's personal needs, interests, and goals. My aim is to support and guide each person through his or her own unique journey towards greater health, wellness, wholeness, peace, satisfaction, and fulfillment. My work is guided by a holistic, mindfulness-based approach, resulting in gradual yet sustainable change.
I work best with adult individuals and couples who wish to address any of the following: anxiety; mind-body issues like IBS, chronic pain, back pain, etc; stress and trauma; relationship difficulties, life transitions, cultural differences, or spiritual issues; and depression. Therapy is individualized, determined by each client's personal needs, interests, and goals. My aim is to support and guide each person through his or her own unique journey towards greater health, wellness, wholeness, peace, satisfaction, and fulfillment. My work is guided by a holistic, mindfulness-based approach, resulting in gradual yet sustainable change.
(310) 421-2756 View (310) 421-2756
Photo of Alan Konell in Rural Hall, NC
Alan Konell
MSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27516  (Online Only)
My ideal client is one who wants relief from stress, anxiety, guilt and/or shame, trauma, or chronic pain, but has not been able to achieve this. Typically, I can help people realize lasting desired change efficiently and effectively. Also, I have had great success helping people with phobias and fears and those who want improved relationships. My first goal is to do no harm. My second goal is to help clients realize desired goals while respecting and preserving what is already working in their lives.
My ideal client is one who wants relief from stress, anxiety, guilt and/or shame, trauma, or chronic pain, but has not been able to achieve this. Typically, I can help people realize lasting desired change efficiently and effectively. Also, I have had great success helping people with phobias and fears and those who want improved relationships. My first goal is to do no harm. My second goal is to help clients realize desired goals while respecting and preserving what is already working in their lives.
(919) 804-1347 View (919) 804-1347
Photo of Asha Sims, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rural Hall, NC
Asha Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
Are you tired of traditional psychotherapy and feel like its not helping any more? Do you feel the current forms of treatment are not enough? Dealing with stress, anxiety, and overly sensitive to others? Body pain and somatic concerns? Feeling disconnected? Not grounded? Financial issues? Relationship issues? Its time to come into balance! Time to reconnect with SELF!!
Are you tired of traditional psychotherapy and feel like its not helping any more? Do you feel the current forms of treatment are not enough? Dealing with stress, anxiety, and overly sensitive to others? Body pain and somatic concerns? Feeling disconnected? Not grounded? Financial issues? Relationship issues? Its time to come into balance! Time to reconnect with SELF!!
(704) 703-7278 View (704) 703-7278
Photo of Gina Roberts, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Rural Hall, 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 Kathy Murray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rural Hall, NC
Kathy Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, Somatic
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
As a Somatic Therapist, I believe that everyone has within them an inner wisdom and inner healing power that is their natural birthright. My role is to help create the environment for that inner genius to arise and find itself. When this is done, new meaning, purpose and life narratives can be discovered and lived out. I have wide experience assisting individuals in managing a variety of behavioral and emotional concerns including trauma, chronic pain and health issues, difficult life transitions, weight management, anxiety, depression, and stress management.
As a Somatic Therapist, I believe that everyone has within them an inner wisdom and inner healing power that is their natural birthright. My role is to help create the environment for that inner genius to arise and find itself. When this is done, new meaning, purpose and life narratives can be discovered and lived out. I have wide experience assisting individuals in managing a variety of behavioral and emotional concerns including trauma, chronic pain and health issues, difficult life transitions, weight management, anxiety, depression, and stress management.
(919) 276-8754 View (919) 276-8754
Photo of Dan Chartier, Psychologist in Rural Hall, NC
Dan Chartier
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
Dan Chartier, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist- Health Service Provider, Raleigh, NC has been in private practice since 1983. As a psychotherapist, in addition to "talk therapy", Dr. Chartier uses psychophysiological methods of biofeedback and neurofeedback to facilitate mind-body healing. In his work, deepening awareness and release of non-productive behaviors is a primary process. By learning to enter neutral emotional space clients come to more clearly recognize options and choices that result in improved health. In addition to treating clients with psychological and emotional distress, Dr. Chartier works with patients coping with chronic pain or recovering from brain injury.
Dan Chartier, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist- Health Service Provider, Raleigh, NC has been in private practice since 1983. As a psychotherapist, in addition to "talk therapy", Dr. Chartier uses psychophysiological methods of biofeedback and neurofeedback to facilitate mind-body healing. In his work, deepening awareness and release of non-productive behaviors is a primary process. By learning to enter neutral emotional space clients come to more clearly recognize options and choices that result in improved health. In addition to treating clients with psychological and emotional distress, Dr. Chartier works with patients coping with chronic pain or recovering from brain injury.
(252) 349-0938 View (252) 349-0938
Photo of Nancy K Holliman, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Rural Hall, NC
Nancy K Holliman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701
Waitlist for new clients
Personal issues such as anxiety, difficulties with food, a new medical diagnosis, depression, or dealing with a chronic illness or condition may be making you feel like life is one big struggle. Whether you have these sorts of problems or other concerns that are making your life hard or even unbearable, change is always possible if you are willing to work and you have the support you need. I offer that support. I have 4 years of experience serving adolescents and adults with eating disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, depression, trauma, PTSD, and mood disorders. I would be honored to work with you around whatever difficulties you may be facing. Together we will discover new perspectives and skills that will enable you to develop deeper awareness so that you can handle whatever life brings you and thrive.
Personal issues such as anxiety, difficulties with food, a new medical diagnosis, depression, or dealing with a chronic illness or condition may be making you feel like life is one big struggle. Whether you have these sorts of problems or other concerns that are making your life hard or even unbearable, change is always possible if you are willing to work and you have the support you need. I offer that support. I have 4 years of experience serving adolescents and adults with eating disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, depression, trauma, PTSD, and mood disorders. I would be honored to work with you around whatever difficulties you may be facing. Together we will discover new perspectives and skills that will enable you to develop deeper awareness so that you can handle whatever life brings you and thrive.
(984) 205-4658 View (984) 205-4658
Photo of Hannah Lingafelt, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Rural Hall, NC
Hannah Lingafelt
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, MMT, LCMHC, MT-BC, FAMI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
Waitlist for new clients
To be human is to experience great joy and great pain; sensitive people feel that pain on a deep level that can be overwhelming. Whether your pain stems from traumatic experiences, attachment wounds, or emotional needs that aren’t being met, therapy can help you sit with the pain while still building a meaningful and rich life. Therapy can help you claim your sensitivity for what it is--an exquisite gift to be honored instead of an overwhelming enemy.
To be human is to experience great joy and great pain; sensitive people feel that pain on a deep level that can be overwhelming. Whether your pain stems from traumatic experiences, attachment wounds, or emotional needs that aren’t being met, therapy can help you sit with the pain while still building a meaningful and rich life. Therapy can help you claim your sensitivity for what it is--an exquisite gift to be honored instead of an overwhelming enemy.
(828) 374-1075 View (828) 374-1075
Photo of Meg Barry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rural Hall, NC
Meg Barry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27712
Waitlist for new clients
8-9 Month Waitlist-You matter and you are enough! I am a trauma therapist whose approach is integrative and honors each client’s unique emotional system. I believe that creating safety in client-counselor relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. I greet each client with warmth, understanding, and non-judgement, drawing on each client’s strength and inner wisdom to bring about change in their lives. I am passionate about working with adults with a history of trauma, attachment trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and auto-immune/chronic pain.
8-9 Month Waitlist-You matter and you are enough! I am a trauma therapist whose approach is integrative and honors each client’s unique emotional system. I believe that creating safety in client-counselor relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. I greet each client with warmth, understanding, and non-judgement, drawing on each client’s strength and inner wisdom to bring about change in their lives. I am passionate about working with adults with a history of trauma, attachment trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and auto-immune/chronic pain.
(919) 726-0565 View (919) 726-0565
Photo of Valarie Anne Snell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rural Hall, NC
Valarie Anne Snell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
Waitlist for new clients
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
(336) 754-2119 x228 View (336) 754-2119 x228
Photo of Lysle E Betts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rural Hall, NC
Lysle E Betts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC , NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
If you are drawn to life's big questions, to wholistic approaches, to self reflection, to relational depth, to issues of meaning and purpose, & view people as too complex to fit in neat & easy categories, then the type of therapy I practice might be appealing & appropriate for you. Person-centered, depth-oriented individual psychotherapy is what I have practiced since 1995. It is an honor to aid my clients in the journey inward that can help their inner & outer lives become/be rich and satisfying experiences of growth & discovery, that generate ever deepening self understanding, life satisfaction, & passionate engagement with life.
If you are drawn to life's big questions, to wholistic approaches, to self reflection, to relational depth, to issues of meaning and purpose, & view people as too complex to fit in neat & easy categories, then the type of therapy I practice might be appealing & appropriate for you. Person-centered, depth-oriented individual psychotherapy is what I have practiced since 1995. It is an honor to aid my clients in the journey inward that can help their inner & outer lives become/be rich and satisfying experiences of growth & discovery, that generate ever deepening self understanding, life satisfaction, & passionate engagement with life.
(919) 299-0062 View (919) 299-0062
Photo of Serenity Springs Counseling and Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rural Hall, NC
Serenity Springs Counseling and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
Waitlist for new clients
Are you, a family member, or your relationship struggling? Need some help getting things on track? Our group of therapists works with couples, individuals, and families of all ages and backgrounds. Our diverse group of clinicians can help you tackle almost any challenge thrown your way. We work with clients to foster their strengths and achieve their goals and are dedicated to helping you reach your healthiest potential.
Are you, a family member, or your relationship struggling? Need some help getting things on track? Our group of therapists works with couples, individuals, and families of all ages and backgrounds. Our diverse group of clinicians can help you tackle almost any challenge thrown your way. We work with clients to foster their strengths and achieve their goals and are dedicated to helping you reach your healthiest potential.
(919) 926-0135 View (919) 926-0135

See more therapy options for Rural Hall

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.