Photo of Michael Gisser, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sanford, NC
Michael Gisser
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330
I feel that my experience allows me to connect and empathize with individuals and couples who might be dealing with the stress of marriage, military life and chronic illness, including depression and anxiety.
I am a former US Army chaplain and ordained rabbi trained in Marriage and Family Therapy with additional training in trauma recovery, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSD). My experience embodies an experiential integrative approach and I can individualize therapy to meet client goals. I work with individuals, couples, military personnel, veterans, and their families, and the LGBTQIA community. I am knowledgeable of world religions and diverse cultural backgrounds. I am currently accepting new clients in Pittsboro. To schedule an appointment vist our website - migcounseling.com
I feel that my experience allows me to connect and empathize with individuals and couples who might be dealing with the stress of marriage, military life and chronic illness, including depression and anxiety.
I am a former US Army chaplain and ordained rabbi trained in Marriage and Family Therapy with additional training in trauma recovery, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSD). My experience embodies an experiential integrative approach and I can individualize therapy to meet client goals. I work with individuals, couples, military personnel, veterans, and their families, and the LGBTQIA community. I am knowledgeable of world religions and diverse cultural backgrounds. I am currently accepting new clients in Pittsboro. To schedule an appointment vist our website - migcounseling.com
(984) 237-3579 View (984) 237-3579
Photo of Nicole L. Davis, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Sanford, NC
Nicole L. Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Sanford, NC 27330
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy to people experiencing a variety of mental health, substance use, or relationship concerns. I utilize a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and other modalities to assist clients in addressing concerns including, but not limited to, addiction, depression, anxiety, personality issues, domestic violence, and trauma. I am also certified as a Clinical Supervisor Intern through the NCASPPB. I provide ongoing supervision to other addictions professionals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy to people experiencing a variety of mental health, substance use, or relationship concerns. I utilize a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and other modalities to assist clients in addressing concerns including, but not limited to, addiction, depression, anxiety, personality issues, domestic violence, and trauma. I am also certified as a Clinical Supervisor Intern through the NCASPPB. I provide ongoing supervision to other addictions professionals.
(919) 626-3910 View (919) 626-3910
Photo of Amy Trousdale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sanford, NC
Amy Trousdale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330
Let’s sit down together and start changing your narrative to reflect the best version of you. Navigating through life can be stressful and difficult however you do not have to walk this path alone. Through identifying negative thought patterns or learning how old behavior patterns have not always served you well, I am confident we can get you on a path to a brighter future.
Let’s sit down together and start changing your narrative to reflect the best version of you. Navigating through life can be stressful and difficult however you do not have to walk this path alone. Through identifying negative thought patterns or learning how old behavior patterns have not always served you well, I am confident we can get you on a path to a brighter future.
(919) 759-5291 View (919) 759-5291

Online Therapists

Photo of New Way Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sanford, NC
New Way Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knightdale, NC 27545
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Often times life can be challenging and many of us are not prepared to deal with those issues and find ourselves in an unfamiliar place. As a therapist, I am dedicated to providing individualized care to meet your needs. I've worked with children and adults in the mental health field for over 16 years and individuals with addiction for over 8 years. I've treated individuals with various mental health and substance use disorders. My experience enables me to offer effective, individualized outpatient psychological care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges and addiction.
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Often times life can be challenging and many of us are not prepared to deal with those issues and find ourselves in an unfamiliar place. As a therapist, I am dedicated to providing individualized care to meet your needs. I've worked with children and adults in the mental health field for over 16 years and individuals with addiction for over 8 years. I've treated individuals with various mental health and substance use disorders. My experience enables me to offer effective, individualized outpatient psychological care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges and addiction.
(919) 289-8267 View (919) 289-8267
Photo of Tita Johnson, Counselor in Sanford, NC
Tita Johnson
Counselor, LCMHC, LPC/S, MAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27804  (Online Only)
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
(843) 428-6596 View (843) 428-6596
Photo of Bridget Pemberton-Smith, Art Therapist in Sanford, NC
Bridget Pemberton-Smith
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510
As an expressive arts therapist, I promote the healing power of the arts and am dedicated to helping my clients discover their strengths and healing potential. I love being able to walk with people on their healing journies, guiding them through transitions and periods of growth. I have worked with a variety of people including children with physical illness, at-risk adolescents, adults with mental illness, seniors both with and without dementia, refugees and immigrants and as a supervisor for art therapists seeking art therapy registration. I have worked in schools, hospitals, retirement centers and mental health agencies.
As an expressive arts therapist, I promote the healing power of the arts and am dedicated to helping my clients discover their strengths and healing potential. I love being able to walk with people on their healing journies, guiding them through transitions and periods of growth. I have worked with a variety of people including children with physical illness, at-risk adolescents, adults with mental illness, seniors both with and without dementia, refugees and immigrants and as a supervisor for art therapists seeking art therapy registration. I have worked in schools, hospitals, retirement centers and mental health agencies.
(919) 925-4191 View (919) 925-4191
Photo of Pam Koretsky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sanford, NC
Pam Koretsky, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I have an all telehealth practice for adults who live in Florida and North Carolina using a HIPAA compliant video platform. In this stressful environment we live in, learning to be our own best friend can lead us down a happier path. Through Cognitive Behavioral techniques we can understand the connection between our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, life transitions chronic pain and illness, depression, caregiver issues, low self-esteem and grief. These are only some of the issues. By using solution focused therapy, clients can begin to feel better in a shorter time frame.
I have an all telehealth practice for adults who live in Florida and North Carolina using a HIPAA compliant video platform. In this stressful environment we live in, learning to be our own best friend can lead us down a happier path. Through Cognitive Behavioral techniques we can understand the connection between our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, life transitions chronic pain and illness, depression, caregiver issues, low self-esteem and grief. These are only some of the issues. By using solution focused therapy, clients can begin to feel better in a shorter time frame.
(919) 605-3544 View (919) 605-3544
Photo of Char Boyette, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Sanford, NC
Char Boyette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, EMDRIA, CCS, MDiv, JD
Verified Verified
Winterville, NC 28590
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.
(910) 634-6171 View (910) 634-6171
Photo of Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC , Counselor in Sanford, 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 Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Sanford, NC
Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCMHC-S, LCAS, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
(980) 338-4035 View (980) 338-4035
Photo of Dr. Brad Rappaport, Psychologist in Sanford, NC
Dr. Brad Rappaport
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Clients say that I have a calm and non-judgmental manner that demonstrates great respect for their difficulties and pain.
Are you feeling anxious? Overwhelmed? Stuck? Have you been feeling depressed? Irritable? Unsure of how to feel better or move forward? Are you turning to coping skills that may work in the short-run but offer no long-term potential to help you develop confidence and resilience? If you are struggling with these issues, our work together can help you cultivate a more meaningful life when it comes to love, work, and play. Our work together will focus on developing the tools and the practical "know-how" so that you can meet the challenges of life with calmness and confidence and sustain this growth.
Clients say that I have a calm and non-judgmental manner that demonstrates great respect for their difficulties and pain.
Are you feeling anxious? Overwhelmed? Stuck? Have you been feeling depressed? Irritable? Unsure of how to feel better or move forward? Are you turning to coping skills that may work in the short-run but offer no long-term potential to help you develop confidence and resilience? If you are struggling with these issues, our work together can help you cultivate a more meaningful life when it comes to love, work, and play. Our work together will focus on developing the tools and the practical "know-how" so that you can meet the challenges of life with calmness and confidence and sustain this growth.
(984) 207-5328 View (984) 207-5328
Photo of The Healing Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sanford, NC
The Healing Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
Pain is motivating, and we offer customized treatment to meet your needs.
Our definition of recovery is working towards our truest and highest self, not just working towards abstinence. We are trauma specialists in active recovery and focus on healing trauma while reinstating a sense of self. We believe that if you do the hard work, and you keep coming back, you will get better. Our therapists are relationship experts in developing the roadmap to other relationships through self.
Pain is motivating, and we offer customized treatment to meet your needs.
Our definition of recovery is working towards our truest and highest self, not just working towards abstinence. We are trauma specialists in active recovery and focus on healing trauma while reinstating a sense of self. We believe that if you do the hard work, and you keep coming back, you will get better. Our therapists are relationship experts in developing the roadmap to other relationships through self.
(704) 275-0441 View (704) 275-0441
Photo of Valarie Anne Snell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sanford, 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 James A Barbour, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sanford, NC
James A Barbour
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610  (Online Only)
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
(252) 585-5186 View (252) 585-5186
Photo of Jenny Smith Person, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sanford, NC
Jenny Smith Person
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
I am strengths-based and I utilize different therapy techniques, including EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational interviewing, and CBT for Chronic Pain.
I strive to provide a warm and caring environment for clients to feel open to explore challenges in their life. I appreciate working with clients who are tired of being “stuck” and want to address trauma and/or stressful life events from their past that are standing in the way of them achieving their dreams.
I am strengths-based and I utilize different therapy techniques, including EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational interviewing, and CBT for Chronic Pain.
I strive to provide a warm and caring environment for clients to feel open to explore challenges in their life. I appreciate working with clients who are tired of being “stuck” and want to address trauma and/or stressful life events from their past that are standing in the way of them achieving their dreams.
(919) 891-1235 View (919) 891-1235
Photo of Lotus Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sanford, NC
Lotus Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Aberdeen, NC 28315
I enjoy working with teens and adults on issues related to anger, ADHD, adjustments, depression, anxiety, PTSD and self-esteem. Teaching teens how to cope in this often times chaotic world is a passion of mine, but I also enjoy working with adults and teaching them how to decrease distorted thinking and create a life they love living. Self-awareness, self-regulation, self-soothing, and self-determination are fundamentally important for healing and I ask the questions that will help you understand your own barriers and teach you the skills that will empower you to change.
I enjoy working with teens and adults on issues related to anger, ADHD, adjustments, depression, anxiety, PTSD and self-esteem. Teaching teens how to cope in this often times chaotic world is a passion of mine, but I also enjoy working with adults and teaching them how to decrease distorted thinking and create a life they love living. Self-awareness, self-regulation, self-soothing, and self-determination are fundamentally important for healing and I ask the questions that will help you understand your own barriers and teach you the skills that will empower you to change.
(910) 335-2531 View (910) 335-2531
Photo of Brianna Hicks, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Sanford, NC
Brianna Hicks
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
For the last ten years I have been helping clients from a variety of backgrounds to move in the direction of making a meaningful, fulfilling life. I have extensive experience working with folks struggling with disordered eating and body image distress, obsessive compulsive tendencies, anxiety, depression, trauma, and challenges related to gender and sexuality. As a person who identifies as queer herself, I am strongly committed to providing a safe, non-judgemental, and affirming space for all folks in the LGTBQ community and provide letters for folks looking to receiving gender affirming medical care.
For the last ten years I have been helping clients from a variety of backgrounds to move in the direction of making a meaningful, fulfilling life. I have extensive experience working with folks struggling with disordered eating and body image distress, obsessive compulsive tendencies, anxiety, depression, trauma, and challenges related to gender and sexuality. As a person who identifies as queer herself, I am strongly committed to providing a safe, non-judgemental, and affirming space for all folks in the LGTBQ community and provide letters for folks looking to receiving gender affirming medical care.
(919) 888-4511 View (919) 888-4511
Photo of P & G Clinical Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sanford, NC
P & G Clinical Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226  (Online Only)
We are accepting new patients! Hablamos y ofrecemos servicios en Español. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural professional who has worked with abused children, adolescents, adults and their families who have experienced trauma. I have also worked with individuals with other mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, impulse control, addiction disorders, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.).
We are accepting new patients! Hablamos y ofrecemos servicios en Español. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural professional who has worked with abused children, adolescents, adults and their families who have experienced trauma. I have also worked with individuals with other mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, impulse control, addiction disorders, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.).
(704) 207-0995 View (704) 207-0995
Photo of The Pleasants Group , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sanford, NC
The Pleasants Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CTP, CDBT, CCS
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27404  (Online Only)
Pro LGBTQQIAP/ BLM/ sex/ body positive/ally. I specialize in healing from healing the neurological response to trauma. My training, both academic and visceral experiences, have all contributed in creating an eclectic therapeutic approach that values empowerment, self-direction, confidentiality, a non-judgmental atmosphere, emotional safety, validation, dignity, and respect above as else. These components are necessary to create an environment conducive for healing. When both the client and the therapist are willing to work in collaboration towards achieving their therapeutic goals, great strides can be made in the healing process.
Pro LGBTQQIAP/ BLM/ sex/ body positive/ally. I specialize in healing from healing the neurological response to trauma. My training, both academic and visceral experiences, have all contributed in creating an eclectic therapeutic approach that values empowerment, self-direction, confidentiality, a non-judgmental atmosphere, emotional safety, validation, dignity, and respect above as else. These components are necessary to create an environment conducive for healing. When both the client and the therapist are willing to work in collaboration towards achieving their therapeutic goals, great strides can be made in the healing process.
(336) 814-8807 View (336) 814-8807
Photo of Michelle Chachkes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sanford, NC
Michelle Chachkes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients: "Life is a journey...Everyone needs a guide sometimes". Therapy is a a process where we work to uncover the conflicts in our lives and create the awareness to change our behaviors, Do you have a relationship that you are struggling with? or feeling angry and want to learn how to go with the flow? There are a lot of factors that create stress in our lives some we can't control but we can learn how to cope with it and change the things we do have control over. Together, we will determine your goals and explore the possible strategies that will help you feel successful on your journey.
Accepting New Clients: "Life is a journey...Everyone needs a guide sometimes". Therapy is a a process where we work to uncover the conflicts in our lives and create the awareness to change our behaviors, Do you have a relationship that you are struggling with? or feeling angry and want to learn how to go with the flow? There are a lot of factors that create stress in our lives some we can't control but we can learn how to cope with it and change the things we do have control over. Together, we will determine your goals and explore the possible strategies that will help you feel successful on your journey.
(919) 504-5751 View (919) 504-5751
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.