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Online Therapists

Photo of Tiffany Schiffner, Psychologist in Stony Point, 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 Lucyna Sonek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Stony Point, 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 Deborah Whitley Van Wieren, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Stony Point, NC
Deborah Whitley Van Wieren
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC , LCAS
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Waitlist for new clients
Life can present challenges, some we live with every day, and others seem to come out of nowhere. Maybe life doesn't follow along a path we've spent years creating and working toward. The business of living can begin to feel like a grind, and simple tasks may create exhaustion, fear, and uncertainty. Unresolved and painful childhood memories seem to revisit out of nowhere, and even though you've worked and wished, or prayed about the pain, the pain lingers. We often resign ourselves to perceiving life as a chore instead of a joyful experience, which can lead to a lack of fulfillment and even chronic illness.
Life can present challenges, some we live with every day, and others seem to come out of nowhere. Maybe life doesn't follow along a path we've spent years creating and working toward. The business of living can begin to feel like a grind, and simple tasks may create exhaustion, fear, and uncertainty. Unresolved and painful childhood memories seem to revisit out of nowhere, and even though you've worked and wished, or prayed about the pain, the pain lingers. We often resign ourselves to perceiving life as a chore instead of a joyful experience, which can lead to a lack of fulfillment and even chronic illness.
(828) 373-1168 View (828) 373-1168
Photo of Katie Wangelin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stony Point, 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 Robert Limkeman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Stony Point, 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 Mark Livak, Counselor in Stony Point, 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 Carol Greenberger, Counselor in Stony Point, NC
Carol Greenberger
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
(828) 484-2226 View (828) 484-2226
Photo of Corey Costanzo, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Stony Point, NC
Corey Costanzo
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCAS, LMBT, SEP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Lets explore your life experience in a new and exciting way. I see suffering as an opportunity to break free from old patterns, habits, and ways of thinking that are not working for you anymore. It's a call from deep inside saying, "something needs to shift". This shift can come from exploring a relationship to a substance that you are using, and the pain, anxiety, depression, or a general sense of not loving your life that may come with it. Your unique journey is here right now, and experiencing it from a nonjudgmental perspective can be a vital ingredient to moving past whatever is holding you back from living your best life.
Lets explore your life experience in a new and exciting way. I see suffering as an opportunity to break free from old patterns, habits, and ways of thinking that are not working for you anymore. It's a call from deep inside saying, "something needs to shift". This shift can come from exploring a relationship to a substance that you are using, and the pain, anxiety, depression, or a general sense of not loving your life that may come with it. Your unique journey is here right now, and experiencing it from a nonjudgmental perspective can be a vital ingredient to moving past whatever is holding you back from living your best life.
(828) 970-1704 View (828) 970-1704
Photo of John Joseph McCarthy, Pastoral Counselor in Stony Point, 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 Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Stony Point, NC
Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28206  (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 Jefferson Mccombs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Stony Point, NC
Jefferson Mccombs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Kannapolis, NC 28083
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 x2 View (704) 751-4949 x2
Photo of Rachel Weiss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stony Point, NC
Rachel Weiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805  (Online Only)
Partnering in the healing process with my clients is such an honor for me. I work with a variety of issues, with a focus on healing from trauma, or adverse life experiences. I can also help with life changes and stress, anxiety, addictions, eating disorders, phobias, low self-esteem, relationship issues, secondary traumatic stress, complex trauma and dissociative "disorders." I work hard to meet the needs of each individual, providing a safe, non-judgmental, empathic space essential for healing. I am up front and "real," while highly nurturing, and caring; I believe in the transformative effects of the therapeutic relationship.
Partnering in the healing process with my clients is such an honor for me. I work with a variety of issues, with a focus on healing from trauma, or adverse life experiences. I can also help with life changes and stress, anxiety, addictions, eating disorders, phobias, low self-esteem, relationship issues, secondary traumatic stress, complex trauma and dissociative "disorders." I work hard to meet the needs of each individual, providing a safe, non-judgmental, empathic space essential for healing. I am up front and "real," while highly nurturing, and caring; I believe in the transformative effects of the therapeutic relationship.
(828) 585-5024 View (828) 585-5024
Photo of Jeannine Bodner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stony Point, NC
Jeannine Bodner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036
I respect the courage that it takes to seek help when life's challenges become overwhelming. It is often a very painful place that can be difficult to share with another person. I am very sensitive to the fact that the first step can be the most difficult. I use a collaborative, compassionate approach with my clients. I rely on my knowledge and experience coupled with theoretical approaches to customize a plan for the individual situation. The goal is to work toward holistic balance.
I respect the courage that it takes to seek help when life's challenges become overwhelming. It is often a very painful place that can be difficult to share with another person. I am very sensitive to the fact that the first step can be the most difficult. I use a collaborative, compassionate approach with my clients. I rely on my knowledge and experience coupled with theoretical approaches to customize a plan for the individual situation. The goal is to work toward holistic balance.
(704) 851-8218 View (704) 851-8218
Photo of Nicole Moriarty: Trauma Resolution Therapy, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Stony Point, 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
Photo of N. Diane Stamey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stony Point, NC
N. Diane Stamey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT, LFBPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook@Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook@Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
(828) 348-6863 View (828) 348-6863
Photo of Dr. Randi Konikoff, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Stony Point, NC
Dr. Randi Konikoff
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHCS, LCAS, BCTMHC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078  (Online Only)
Dr. Randi Konikoff has a passion for helping clients to become students of themselves, thereby learning how to use their mind, body, and spirit in healthy and self-edifying ways. She is a Board Certified National Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Certified Clinical Military Counselor, Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor, Certified Hypnotherapy Instructor, Certified Employee Assistance Professional, Certified Tele-Mental Health Counselor, Certified Brain Health Coach, Neuro-Psychotherapist. She is licensed in NC, SC, GA and VA.
Dr. Randi Konikoff has a passion for helping clients to become students of themselves, thereby learning how to use their mind, body, and spirit in healthy and self-edifying ways. She is a Board Certified National Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Certified Clinical Military Counselor, Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor, Certified Hypnotherapy Instructor, Certified Employee Assistance Professional, Certified Tele-Mental Health Counselor, Certified Brain Health Coach, Neuro-Psychotherapist. She is licensed in NC, SC, GA and VA.
(704) 228-4001 View (704) 228-4001
Photo of Dr. Sarah Stuchell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stony Point, NC
Dr. Sarah Stuchell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
Although you may feel alone in your problem, I guarantee that you are not, and will help you develop individual and relationship skills to overcome your problem(s). I am an avid proponent of examining the systemic nature of problems, which includes taking inventory of the mental, physical, spiritual, societal, and relational aspects that may be effecting you. I will help you deconstruct your life and experiences, and help you reconstruct a healthy psychological paradigm that heals you and brings meaning and purpose to your life. You will ultimately feel more alive, genuine, and hopeful about yourself and your future.
Although you may feel alone in your problem, I guarantee that you are not, and will help you develop individual and relationship skills to overcome your problem(s). I am an avid proponent of examining the systemic nature of problems, which includes taking inventory of the mental, physical, spiritual, societal, and relational aspects that may be effecting you. I will help you deconstruct your life and experiences, and help you reconstruct a healthy psychological paradigm that heals you and brings meaning and purpose to your life. You will ultimately feel more alive, genuine, and hopeful about yourself and your future.
(949) 337-1360 View (949) 337-1360
Photo of John Taylor Houchens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Stony Point, NC
John Taylor Houchens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28804
My website - www.taylorhouchens.com - I specialize in working with boys, teenagers, men, women, and families. If this is you, it is my goal to help you overcome the barriers and problems in your life that are keeping you from experiencing the freedom you are desiring. Often times, these problems are the result of trauma from childhood that is still unresolved. Perhaps you're experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, sexual abuse, PTSD, addiction (sexual, drug/alcohol, work), lack of self confidence, family issues, relationship difficulties, negative coping habits, physical or auto-immune disorders, or more. If so, I can help.
My website - www.taylorhouchens.com - I specialize in working with boys, teenagers, men, women, and families. If this is you, it is my goal to help you overcome the barriers and problems in your life that are keeping you from experiencing the freedom you are desiring. Often times, these problems are the result of trauma from childhood that is still unresolved. Perhaps you're experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, sexual abuse, PTSD, addiction (sexual, drug/alcohol, work), lack of self confidence, family issues, relationship difficulties, negative coping habits, physical or auto-immune disorders, or more. If so, I can help.
(828) 622-4184 View (828) 622-4184
Photo of Monica L Mouer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Stony Point, NC
Monica L Mouer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
Life is meant to be enjoyed, not endured. If you lack satisfaction in your life, counseling can help. I have a passion to see individuals live to their full potential with peace of mind, purpose in action and joy for everyday living. With over 15 years experience in counseling, education and pastoral ministry combined, I offer an educated perspective on many life issues. I am a trained in many trauma based and relational/family approaches to wholeness. I have extensive experience in working with teens and their families, couples and women's issues especially trauma, anger, emotional regulation, anxiety & depression.
Life is meant to be enjoyed, not endured. If you lack satisfaction in your life, counseling can help. I have a passion to see individuals live to their full potential with peace of mind, purpose in action and joy for everyday living. With over 15 years experience in counseling, education and pastoral ministry combined, I offer an educated perspective on many life issues. I am a trained in many trauma based and relational/family approaches to wholeness. I have extensive experience in working with teens and their families, couples and women's issues especially trauma, anger, emotional regulation, anxiety & depression.
(704) 869-2018 View (704) 869-2018
Photo of Dr. Sharika McFadden, Licensed Professional Counselor in Stony Point, NC
Dr. Sharika McFadden
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPCS, CSOTS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212  (Online Only)
Licensed professional counselor supervisor offering individual and group supervision. People question how to find harmony in their life of obstacles and constant change. I am here to provide support in enhancing skills that brings balance to many areas of living. Gaining insight of what matters most to you, building skills, and connecting patterns that create better understanding of yourself and others can increase success. Skill enhancement to include communication, bonding, relationship, anger, and stress management is provided. With all of my clients, I strive to identify interventions and methods that match their needs while empowering them to make change.
Licensed professional counselor supervisor offering individual and group supervision. People question how to find harmony in their life of obstacles and constant change. I am here to provide support in enhancing skills that brings balance to many areas of living. Gaining insight of what matters most to you, building skills, and connecting patterns that create better understanding of yourself and others can increase success. Skill enhancement to include communication, bonding, relationship, anger, and stress management is provided. With all of my clients, I strive to identify interventions and methods that match their needs while empowering them to make change.
(704) 323-6055 View (704) 323-6055
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.