Photo of Jefferson Mccombs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salisbury, NC
Jefferson Mccombs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Salisbury, NC 28144
My ideal client would be a person who is motivated for change, however one of my main specialties is the ablilty to work with unmotivated and even hostile clients who have been court ordered or adolescents who are forced to come by their parents. I can work with a client on a myriad of issues including anixiety, depression, low self-esteem, complusions and addictions.
My ideal client would be a person who is motivated for change, however one of my main specialties is the ablilty to work with unmotivated and even hostile clients who have been court ordered or adolescents who are forced to come by their parents. I can work with a client on a myriad of issues including anixiety, depression, low self-esteem, complusions and addictions.
(704) 751-4949 View (704) 751-4949

Online Therapists

Photo of Mark Livak, Counselor in Salisbury, NC
Mark Livak
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I admire anyone who is willing to heal their from their emotional pain and improve their troubled relationships.
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
I admire anyone who is willing to heal their from their emotional pain and improve their troubled relationships.
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
(704) 268-9898 View (704) 268-9898
Photo of Rachel Garfield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Salisbury, 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 Triangle Wellness and Recovery PLLC in Salisbury, 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 Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Salisbury, NC
Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703  (Online Only)
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
(919) 823-6654 View (919) 823-6654
Photo of Robert Limkeman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Salisbury, NC
Robert Limkeman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Life can be incredibly painful. We can find ourselves feeling stuck, confused, lonely, anxious, despairing, or lost. We want to make sense of our past & present circumstances, map out a path forward, all in a way that feels true to our values and honors the pain we experience. My clients often struggle with issues like depression & anxiety, grief & loss, trauma & abuse, identity & meaning formation, sexuality & pornography, spiritual distress & relationship strife. Whether highly motivated or exhausted and on the verge of giving up, I am honored to meet each client where they are and walk with them step by step toward change.
Life can be incredibly painful. We can find ourselves feeling stuck, confused, lonely, anxious, despairing, or lost. We want to make sense of our past & present circumstances, map out a path forward, all in a way that feels true to our values and honors the pain we experience. My clients often struggle with issues like depression & anxiety, grief & loss, trauma & abuse, identity & meaning formation, sexuality & pornography, spiritual distress & relationship strife. Whether highly motivated or exhausted and on the verge of giving up, I am honored to meet each client where they are and walk with them step by step toward change.
(704) 769-2168 x114 View (704) 769-2168 x114
Photo of Tiffany Schiffner, Psychologist in Salisbury, 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 Katie Wangelin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salisbury, NC
Katie Wangelin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
Waitlist for new clients
After decades spent honing my clinical practice, I have come to believe that personal turbulence unites us all. We have all been "there" in some shape or fashion. My approach, put simply, is partnership. I partner with others to navigate significant transitional moments including illness, loss of identity, complex grief, trauma recovery, and personal discovery. We all experience the tumult of life and are offered opportunities for growth. In my experience I have found that enhanced self-esteem, contact with supportive others, and an understanding of one's coping pitfalls can go a long way in easing the stress inherent in change.
After decades spent honing my clinical practice, I have come to believe that personal turbulence unites us all. We have all been "there" in some shape or fashion. My approach, put simply, is partnership. I partner with others to navigate significant transitional moments including illness, loss of identity, complex grief, trauma recovery, and personal discovery. We all experience the tumult of life and are offered opportunities for growth. In my experience I have found that enhanced self-esteem, contact with supportive others, and an understanding of one's coping pitfalls can go a long way in easing the stress inherent in change.
(336) 537-5457 View (336) 537-5457
Photo of Lucyna Sonek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salisbury, NC
Lucyna Sonek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPsych, MA, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
(828) 527-0143 View (828) 527-0143
Photo of Jennifer McLucas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salisbury, 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 John Joseph McCarthy, Pastoral Counselor in Salisbury, NC
John Joseph McCarthy
Pastoral Counselor, MSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing pain, emotional distress or challenges in your life? Do you feel lost, stuck, or hopeless with your situation? Are you willing to take the steps that are within your control to improve it? Do you want to deal with your pain and emotional distress in a healthier way? If so, I am here to assist you in reaching your goals.
Are you experiencing pain, emotional distress or challenges in your life? Do you feel lost, stuck, or hopeless with your situation? Are you willing to take the steps that are within your control to improve it? Do you want to deal with your pain and emotional distress in a healthier way? If so, I am here to assist you in reaching your goals.
(980) 655-3318 View (980) 655-3318
Photo of Meg Barry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salisbury, 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 Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC , Counselor in Salisbury, 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 Wayne Faison, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Salisbury, NC
Wayne Faison
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
"YOU REALLY CAN HAVE A LIFE OF ABUNDANCE, PEACE, LIFE, AND JOY!” You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. I Promise you that I am as real as a therapist can get! When you have tried things and they are not working for you, it's time to try something different, and I pride myself in being different and not like every other therapist. Life is too short to hold onto grudges, bad relationships, or to be angry/anxious all the time, and to let past trauma control your life. It's time for that to stop! It's time for you to find meaning and purpose. Let’s talk it's time to make the change for you!
"YOU REALLY CAN HAVE A LIFE OF ABUNDANCE, PEACE, LIFE, AND JOY!” You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. I Promise you that I am as real as a therapist can get! When you have tried things and they are not working for you, it's time to try something different, and I pride myself in being different and not like every other therapist. Life is too short to hold onto grudges, bad relationships, or to be angry/anxious all the time, and to let past trauma control your life. It's time for that to stop! It's time for you to find meaning and purpose. Let’s talk it's time to make the change for you!
(984) 201-7633 View (984) 201-7633
Photo of Nova Lux Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salisbury, NC
Nova Lux Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MD, PhD, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28246
Nova Lux Counseling works with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from traditional therapy from depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, we offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of the clients' individual needs.
Nova Lux Counseling works with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from traditional therapy from depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, we offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of the clients' individual needs.
(203) 539-6250 View (203) 539-6250
Photo of Kelli Underwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salisbury, NC
Kelli Underwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
I have been successfully treating children, teenagers, adults, couples and families since 1996. I offer a diverse menu of treatment options, from concrete skills to deep healing techniques to attain sustainable change. Viewing you holistically in all the contexts of your life, by recognizing your vulnerabilities while building on your strengths, is essential. I create a validating environment and an authentic, collaborative relationship. I am honest, empathic and an effective teacher. I will support you and challenge you to grow in the direction you desire.
I have been successfully treating children, teenagers, adults, couples and families since 1996. I offer a diverse menu of treatment options, from concrete skills to deep healing techniques to attain sustainable change. Viewing you holistically in all the contexts of your life, by recognizing your vulnerabilities while building on your strengths, is essential. I create a validating environment and an authentic, collaborative relationship. I am honest, empathic and an effective teacher. I will support you and challenge you to grow in the direction you desire.
(919) 582-7461 View (919) 582-7461
Photo of InBloom Relationship Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Salisbury, NC
InBloom Relationship Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703
{{{{ ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS }}}} Good therapy begins with a strong relationship between therapist and client, and I believe that creating this empathic connection is one of my greatest strengths. I provide a client-centered, strength-based, affirmative approach that is warm and welcoming — a safe space where clients can share, process, and experience their thoughts and emotions. I am committed to meeting clients where they would like to begin their journey, working collaboratively toward healing, acceptance, purpose, well-being, and fulfillment.
{{{{ ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS }}}} Good therapy begins with a strong relationship between therapist and client, and I believe that creating this empathic connection is one of my greatest strengths. I provide a client-centered, strength-based, affirmative approach that is warm and welcoming — a safe space where clients can share, process, and experience their thoughts and emotions. I am committed to meeting clients where they would like to begin their journey, working collaboratively toward healing, acceptance, purpose, well-being, and fulfillment.
(919) 582-5999 View (919) 582-5999
Photo of Nicole Anzalone, Counselor in Salisbury, NC
Nicole Anzalone
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28273  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am licensed in both NY, NC, and SC w/ 12 yrs of professional work experience. I have worked in a variety of settings such as school settings, substance abuse facilities, outpatient facilities, inpatient/hospital behavioral health units, crisis call centers, & private practice settings. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, as well as a variety of other life stressors. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear or judgement.
Welcome! I am licensed in both NY, NC, and SC w/ 12 yrs of professional work experience. I have worked in a variety of settings such as school settings, substance abuse facilities, outpatient facilities, inpatient/hospital behavioral health units, crisis call centers, & private practice settings. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, as well as a variety of other life stressors. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear or judgement.
(845) 583-0674 View (845) 583-0674
Photo of Greenway Counseling & Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salisbury, NC
Greenway Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCMHC, LCMHCA, LCASA, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
[Good news! Day, evening & Saturday openings are now available] As a group practice, we have a particular interest in helping our adult clients address traumas that may have occurred across their lifespan. Trauma can come in all shapes & sizes - we believe that trauma can be at the center of many concerns like anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, performance issues, & addiction, to name a few. We also love working with little ones, teens, and their families! Fears & worries, behavior problems, family & life changes, school & relationship struggles - these are just a few reasons why we see younger people & families.
[Good news! Day, evening & Saturday openings are now available] As a group practice, we have a particular interest in helping our adult clients address traumas that may have occurred across their lifespan. Trauma can come in all shapes & sizes - we believe that trauma can be at the center of many concerns like anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, performance issues, & addiction, to name a few. We also love working with little ones, teens, and their families! Fears & worries, behavior problems, family & life changes, school & relationship struggles - these are just a few reasons why we see younger people & families.
(336) 496-2361 View (336) 496-2361
Photo of Nicole Moriarty: Trauma Resolution Therapy, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Salisbury, NC
Nicole Moriarty: Trauma Resolution Therapy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any moment in our lives that we were unsafe in some way. Big or small, single events or years-long patterns-if we aren't able to process it, we store it.
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any moment in our lives that we were unsafe in some way. Big or small, single events or years-long patterns-if we aren't able to process it, we store it.
(803) 918-5462 View (803) 918-5462
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.