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Online Therapists

Photo of Suzanne F Bates, Psychologist in Siler City, NC
Suzanne F Bates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Many of my clients struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, OCD and other anxiety disorders, chronic illness, relationship issues, and grief and loss issues.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to enhance learning about behavior, emotions, relationships, and oneself. My goal is to work through the difficulties you are experiencing now while we also build your resiliency to prevent or minimize future difficulties. I ask clients to devote time in between sessions to our work: to increase how accurately we understand your concerns and to take the therapeutic work into your everyday life. Treatment effectiveness relies heavily on the match between therapist and client. If it is not a positive match with me, I assist clients in finding your best match.
Many of my clients struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, OCD and other anxiety disorders, chronic illness, relationship issues, and grief and loss issues.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to enhance learning about behavior, emotions, relationships, and oneself. My goal is to work through the difficulties you are experiencing now while we also build your resiliency to prevent or minimize future difficulties. I ask clients to devote time in between sessions to our work: to increase how accurately we understand your concerns and to take the therapeutic work into your everyday life. Treatment effectiveness relies heavily on the match between therapist and client. If it is not a positive match with me, I assist clients in finding your best match.
(919) 429-7291 View (919) 429-7291
Photo of Tita Johnson, Counselor in Siler City, 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 Rachel Garfield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Siler City, 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 The Healing Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Siler City, 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 Leigh Zick Dongre, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Siler City, NC
Leigh Zick Dongre
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
(336) 791-0314 View (336) 791-0314
Photo of Myriam Rabaste, Licensed Professional Counselor in Siler City, NC
Myriam Rabaste
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, EMDR, II
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
(704) 870-2290 View (704) 870-2290
Photo of Grace Selvaggi, Pre-Licensed Professional in Siler City, NC
Grace Selvaggi
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28117
Grace has experience with victims of domestic violence, mental illness, homelessness, and substance abuse.
Grace Selvaggi is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist who has been practicing since 2020 in North Carolina. Grace is a Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) in North Carolina with more than five years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and childhood/adolescent behavioral issues. She graduated with a Master in Clinical Social Work (MSW) degree, an Integrated Behavioral Health (IBH) specialization, Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BSW) degree, and a psychology minor from the University of Kentucky.
Grace has experience with victims of domestic violence, mental illness, homelessness, and substance abuse.
Grace Selvaggi is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist who has been practicing since 2020 in North Carolina. Grace is a Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) in North Carolina with more than five years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and childhood/adolescent behavioral issues. She graduated with a Master in Clinical Social Work (MSW) degree, an Integrated Behavioral Health (IBH) specialization, Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BSW) degree, and a psychology minor from the University of Kentucky.
(980) 372-4605 View (980) 372-4605
Photo of The International Center for Wellness PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Siler City, NC
The International Center for Wellness PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
(704) 327-5647 x101 View (704) 327-5647 x101
Photo of Janet Heuring Larsen, Psychologist in Siler City, NC
Janet Heuring Larsen
Psychologist, MA, LCAS, LPA, HSP-PA, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
PRACTICE MAY HAVE A WAITLIST, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR INQUIRIES: My psychology practice is committed to delivering highly effective treatment and outstanding client care. I've helped individuals navigate challenges and improve their lives for over 10 years. I treat clients with an array of issues including relationship struggles, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, anger, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, substance use/addiction and grief. I serve many clients with co-occurring disorders and have trained other therapists. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and trauma using EMDR and also offer ADHD/ADD counseling.
PRACTICE MAY HAVE A WAITLIST, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR INQUIRIES: My psychology practice is committed to delivering highly effective treatment and outstanding client care. I've helped individuals navigate challenges and improve their lives for over 10 years. I treat clients with an array of issues including relationship struggles, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, anger, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, substance use/addiction and grief. I serve many clients with co-occurring disorders and have trained other therapists. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and trauma using EMDR and also offer ADHD/ADD counseling.
(919) 948-3053 View (919) 948-3053
Photo of Karen Maynard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Siler City, NC
Karen Maynard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Clemmons, NC 27012
Stress and emotional pain certainly impact employment/school performance, interpersonal relationships, and physical health. Chronic stress/emotional pain can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and misguided coping through substances. It changes your perception; contributes to conflict with family/friends and situations previously managed become overwhelming. If this sounds familiar, Health Matters can help.
Stress and emotional pain certainly impact employment/school performance, interpersonal relationships, and physical health. Chronic stress/emotional pain can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and misguided coping through substances. It changes your perception; contributes to conflict with family/friends and situations previously managed become overwhelming. If this sounds familiar, Health Matters can help.
(336) 515-0738 View (336) 515-0738
Photo of Madalina Ochenatu, Counselor in Siler City, NC
Madalina Ochenatu
Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
It is frustrating to have tried everything, yet continue to feel in pain, sad, hopeless, stuck in the past, and worrying about the future, yourself, and your relationships. Stress, past trauma, chronic physical & mental illness can make you feel that way, affecting your quality of life (QOL). Imagine though a life where you get a boost of energy and motivation, quiet negative self-talk, cope better with stress, manage physical and emotional pain, build confidence, feel less worried, self-conscious and withdrawn, regain hope and pleasure in things you used to enjoy, live a healthier life style, and accomplish meaningful life goals.
It is frustrating to have tried everything, yet continue to feel in pain, sad, hopeless, stuck in the past, and worrying about the future, yourself, and your relationships. Stress, past trauma, chronic physical & mental illness can make you feel that way, affecting your quality of life (QOL). Imagine though a life where you get a boost of energy and motivation, quiet negative self-talk, cope better with stress, manage physical and emotional pain, build confidence, feel less worried, self-conscious and withdrawn, regain hope and pleasure in things you used to enjoy, live a healthier life style, and accomplish meaningful life goals.
(984) 205-4877 View (984) 205-4877
Photo of Rebecca Knowles Floyd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Siler City, NC
Rebecca Knowles Floyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I am old enough to know that life does not always lend itself to simplistic answers. At various periods we all find ourselves in difficult circumstances that feel overwhelming, sometimes related to life changing tragedies like death, divorce, new medical diagnosis like cancer, job loss, or catastrophic injury. In these situations your life changes in an instant. There is an avalanche of distressing emotions and life no longer feels solid or stable. As a therapist who has experienced some serious, life changing tragedies, I understand those feelings and am specifically trained in grief and trauma.
I am old enough to know that life does not always lend itself to simplistic answers. At various periods we all find ourselves in difficult circumstances that feel overwhelming, sometimes related to life changing tragedies like death, divorce, new medical diagnosis like cancer, job loss, or catastrophic injury. In these situations your life changes in an instant. There is an avalanche of distressing emotions and life no longer feels solid or stable. As a therapist who has experienced some serious, life changing tragedies, I understand those feelings and am specifically trained in grief and trauma.
(919) 689-4380 View (919) 689-4380
Photo of Jessie Penner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Siler City, NC
Jessie Penner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
Waitlist for new clients
Life presents challenges, and we are compelled to adapt, but this does not mean we have to do it alone. Whether you need a helping hand, or are simply looking for someone to confide in, I want to offer you a judgment-free space of support. I strongly believe that having a place to be present with your emotions can make all the difference. We all have our own struggles that make us feel vulnerable and uncertain. However, I have always trusted that the human brain is innately programmed to be resilient and powerful. And your mind is nothing short of incredible.
Life presents challenges, and we are compelled to adapt, but this does not mean we have to do it alone. Whether you need a helping hand, or are simply looking for someone to confide in, I want to offer you a judgment-free space of support. I strongly believe that having a place to be present with your emotions can make all the difference. We all have our own struggles that make us feel vulnerable and uncertain. However, I have always trusted that the human brain is innately programmed to be resilient and powerful. And your mind is nothing short of incredible.
(704) 327-0575 View (704) 327-0575
Photo of Cheri Coats, Licensed Professional Counselor in Siler City, NC
Cheri Coats
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCAS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27661  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are going through transition/change, need extra support, or are dealing with on-going struggles. I see therapy as collaborative between therapist and client. I strive to get to know clients on an individual level including your strengths, challenges, goals, and beliefs. My goal is to help you identify aspects of your life that you would like to change and help you to use the strengths you already possess to reach your life goals. I find that clients appreciate that I am compassionate but direct.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are going through transition/change, need extra support, or are dealing with on-going struggles. I see therapy as collaborative between therapist and client. I strive to get to know clients on an individual level including your strengths, challenges, goals, and beliefs. My goal is to help you identify aspects of your life that you would like to change and help you to use the strengths you already possess to reach your life goals. I find that clients appreciate that I am compassionate but direct.
(919) 694-6889 View (919) 694-6889
Photo of Eric James Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Siler City, NC
Eric James Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
Eric Kelly is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Eric attended Hunter College, which is part of the City University Colleges of New York (CUNY), where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology. Eric then earned his Master of Social Work degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He has a diverse clinical background, having provided outpatient therapy, intensive in-home, and multisystemic therapy (MST) for adults, adolescents, and families with a wide range of mental health diagnoses. He has also provided mental health services to adults and children with traumatic brain injuries and cognitive challenges.
Eric Kelly is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Eric attended Hunter College, which is part of the City University Colleges of New York (CUNY), where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology. Eric then earned his Master of Social Work degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He has a diverse clinical background, having provided outpatient therapy, intensive in-home, and multisystemic therapy (MST) for adults, adolescents, and families with a wide range of mental health diagnoses. He has also provided mental health services to adults and children with traumatic brain injuries and cognitive challenges.
(919) 586-8621 x4 View (919) 586-8621 x4
Photo of Kathryn Grimsley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Siler City, NC
Kathryn Grimsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28025
Hello, I'm Kathryn and I’m so glad you are here! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 12+ years experience serving individuals, families, groups, couples (aged 4+). My ideal clients are those who realize their capability for change and who are willing to do the work required to live a more whole-hearted life. I ask also for willingness and honesty - therapy does not work without these things. I want to develop a partnership with you, one based on boundaries and validation. Please be encouraged that you don't have to "do life" alone. It's time to choose thriving over surviving!
Hello, I'm Kathryn and I’m so glad you are here! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 12+ years experience serving individuals, families, groups, couples (aged 4+). My ideal clients are those who realize their capability for change and who are willing to do the work required to live a more whole-hearted life. I ask also for willingness and honesty - therapy does not work without these things. I want to develop a partnership with you, one based on boundaries and validation. Please be encouraged that you don't have to "do life" alone. It's time to choose thriving over surviving!
(704) 703-2640 View (704) 703-2640
Photo of Nicole Anzalone, Counselor in Siler City, 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 Marie Leskauskas, Counselor in Siler City, NC
Marie Leskauskas
Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Each person is a unique individual whose life and experience is different from anyone else, and deserves to be addressed with unconditional positive regard for themselves and their circumstances. This is why I place an emphasis on authenticity and the importance of understanding each person as a whole, focusing on healing through the integration of mental, physical, and spiritual health. As a therapist, I will involve strategies and techniques including CBT, sandtray and sandplay, motivational interviewing, addressing the mind and body connection, and the incorporation of ongoing psychoeducation.
Each person is a unique individual whose life and experience is different from anyone else, and deserves to be addressed with unconditional positive regard for themselves and their circumstances. This is why I place an emphasis on authenticity and the importance of understanding each person as a whole, focusing on healing through the integration of mental, physical, and spiritual health. As a therapist, I will involve strategies and techniques including CBT, sandtray and sandplay, motivational interviewing, addressing the mind and body connection, and the incorporation of ongoing psychoeducation.
(980) 575-5082 View (980) 575-5082
Photo of Esther Mendez, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Siler City, NC
Esther Mendez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27107
Personal power is necessary when bad things happen to good people. With over 18 years of experience in the mental health field, I've worked with individuals of all ages and their families. So whether it's the end of a marriage or a job; PTSD; depression or the roller coaster of ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Behavioral Addictions and more, I'm here to help you step through the door of your "old" normal and into improved personal power and an increased sense of personal success that will become your "new" normal with a happier, healthier life.
Personal power is necessary when bad things happen to good people. With over 18 years of experience in the mental health field, I've worked with individuals of all ages and their families. So whether it's the end of a marriage or a job; PTSD; depression or the roller coaster of ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Behavioral Addictions and more, I'm here to help you step through the door of your "old" normal and into improved personal power and an increased sense of personal success that will become your "new" normal with a happier, healthier life.
(336) 814-9297 View (336) 814-9297
Photo of Jody (Jonathan) Youmans, Licensed Professional Counselor in Siler City, NC
Jody (Jonathan) Youmans
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Youngsville, NC 27596
My theoretical orientation is from an eclectic approach which provides a balance of the different types of therapies to meet the client where they are at. I also have acquired special training, which provides an opportunity for me to work with children and adults dealing with different traumas they have experienced. I ascribe to treating the whole person and to helping the individual to become his or her own best therapist. It is my belief that as an individual becomes more aware of their thoughts, actions, emotions and beliefs that they have increased ability to face challenges and overcome difficult situations more successfully.
My theoretical orientation is from an eclectic approach which provides a balance of the different types of therapies to meet the client where they are at. I also have acquired special training, which provides an opportunity for me to work with children and adults dealing with different traumas they have experienced. I ascribe to treating the whole person and to helping the individual to become his or her own best therapist. It is my belief that as an individual becomes more aware of their thoughts, actions, emotions and beliefs that they have increased ability to face challenges and overcome difficult situations more successfully.
(919) 323-4048 View (919) 323-4048

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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.