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Photo of Dr. Wendy G Harris, Counseling & Supervision, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Topsail Beach, NC
Dr. Wendy G Harris, Counseling & Supervision
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, EdD, LCMHC S, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Hampstead, NC 28443
**Please feel free to leave us a message** If you're reading my profile you've taken an important first step towards change. Sometimes taking that first step feels challenging. I'm glad you're here! As my client we will work together to set realistic goals that are specific to making positive life changes, building strength, enhancing resiliency and overall personal growth. The relationships I establish with my clients are compassionate, collaborative and geared towards individual success. Working together, we'll pull from several different treatment modalities that will assist in producing positive life results.
**Please feel free to leave us a message** If you're reading my profile you've taken an important first step towards change. Sometimes taking that first step feels challenging. I'm glad you're here! As my client we will work together to set realistic goals that are specific to making positive life changes, building strength, enhancing resiliency and overall personal growth. The relationships I establish with my clients are compassionate, collaborative and geared towards individual success. Working together, we'll pull from several different treatment modalities that will assist in producing positive life results.
(919) 816-2030 View (919) 816-2030

Online Therapists

Photo of Jen Johnson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Topsail Beach, NC
Jen Johnson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, MFA, CRC, BCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include stress, grief, loss, transitions, anxiety, chronic illness, perfectionism, self-criticism, creativity, gifted adults, and medical trauma.
Are stress and ruminating thoughts about the past or future keeping you up at night? Do you wake up feeling anxious and worried? Are you struggling with stress related illness, such as autoimmune illness or high blood pressure? Have you lost your sense of aliveness, meaning, and purpose? I offer life coaching and counseling services to adults. I teach people how to develop inner peace, calm, and resilience so that you cope with the difficult times more skillfully and savor life's joy, beauty, and awe more fully.
My areas of specialty include stress, grief, loss, transitions, anxiety, chronic illness, perfectionism, self-criticism, creativity, gifted adults, and medical trauma.
Are stress and ruminating thoughts about the past or future keeping you up at night? Do you wake up feeling anxious and worried? Are you struggling with stress related illness, such as autoimmune illness or high blood pressure? Have you lost your sense of aliveness, meaning, and purpose? I offer life coaching and counseling services to adults. I teach people how to develop inner peace, calm, and resilience so that you cope with the difficult times more skillfully and savor life's joy, beauty, and awe more fully.
(910) 653-1690 View (910) 653-1690
Photo of Teresa Vaughan, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Topsail Beach, NC
Teresa Vaughan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
I am grounded in CBT, but also believe in the power of art and movement in the healing of emotional pain.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change.
I am grounded in CBT, but also believe in the power of art and movement in the healing of emotional pain.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change.
(252) 689-7203 View (252) 689-7203
Photo of Patricia A Toth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Topsail Beach, NC
Patricia A Toth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28560  (Online Only)
Rather than identifying and categorizing the presence or absence of symptoms of illness, my practice seeks to uncover the psychological health in my clients.
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
Rather than identifying and categorizing the presence or absence of symptoms of illness, my practice seeks to uncover the psychological health in my clients.
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
(252) 392-4371 View (252) 392-4371
Photo of Michele Ruhmann, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Topsail Beach, NC
Michele Ruhmann
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28560
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is on working with people who are experiencing anxiety, pain, trauma recovery, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained, stuck and you don’t know what to do or where to turn next? Moving forward can sometimes feel daunting but you can do it. Begin to take back your power today! You can learn to manage the chaos, calm those defeating thoughts, ease the tension in your body and begin to feel positive. Your story has a purpose and is as unique as you are, we will work together to create a tailored therapy experience to meet your goals using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), somatic bodywork, and traditional talk therapy.
My focus is on working with people who are experiencing anxiety, pain, trauma recovery, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained, stuck and you don’t know what to do or where to turn next? Moving forward can sometimes feel daunting but you can do it. Begin to take back your power today! You can learn to manage the chaos, calm those defeating thoughts, ease the tension in your body and begin to feel positive. Your story has a purpose and is as unique as you are, we will work together to create a tailored therapy experience to meet your goals using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), somatic bodywork, and traditional talk therapy.
(252) 379-5081 View (252) 379-5081
Photo of Leslie A Veach, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Topsail Beach, NC
Leslie A Veach
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHCS, CGP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858
Sometimes we feel alone, even in a crowd or with significant others. Pain, trauma, feeling different/misunderstood/unknown or even how we see ourselves can drive a wedge between us and the people and life experiences that matter most to us. If you are looking for someone who will join with you as you find your way through to a more meaningful way of living and toward more fulfilling relationships, then I welcome you to contact me for a free consultation.
Sometimes we feel alone, even in a crowd or with significant others. Pain, trauma, feeling different/misunderstood/unknown or even how we see ourselves can drive a wedge between us and the people and life experiences that matter most to us. If you are looking for someone who will join with you as you find your way through to a more meaningful way of living and toward more fulfilling relationships, then I welcome you to contact me for a free consultation.
(252) 489-4588 View (252) 489-4588
Photo of Olinda Davidson in Topsail Beach, NC
Olinda Davidson
LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
You may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious from trying to hold it all together for everyone and everything. You put on a “happy” face and push through the day only to wonder if you will ever feel better. Until now, you’ve been able to manage it on your own, but it’s starting to affect other areas of your life and you can’t pretend everything is ok anymore. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, a relationship or health concerns but wherever the pain is coming from you are tired of feeling alone and stuck. You want to make lasting changes, but deciding where to start feels impossible. I’m here and I get it.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious from trying to hold it all together for everyone and everything. You put on a “happy” face and push through the day only to wonder if you will ever feel better. Until now, you’ve been able to manage it on your own, but it’s starting to affect other areas of your life and you can’t pretend everything is ok anymore. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, a relationship or health concerns but wherever the pain is coming from you are tired of feeling alone and stuck. You want to make lasting changes, but deciding where to start feels impossible. I’m here and I get it.
(252) 582-6024 View (252) 582-6024
Photo of Crystal Shaw, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Topsail Beach, NC
Crystal Shaw
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469  (Online Only)
I have availability for Friday morning appointments. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor offering online/virtual therapy with over 16 years of experience in counseling. I have worked for public organizations for most of my career, which means I have experience working with a variety of different people. I specialize in anxiety disorders, career dissatisfaction/stress management, and life transitions/adjustments (i.e. college, career switch, divorce, aging, onset of illness).
I have availability for Friday morning appointments. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor offering online/virtual therapy with over 16 years of experience in counseling. I have worked for public organizations for most of my career, which means I have experience working with a variety of different people. I specialize in anxiety disorders, career dissatisfaction/stress management, and life transitions/adjustments (i.e. college, career switch, divorce, aging, onset of illness).
(910) 430-3807 View (910) 430-3807
Photo of Amy G Therriault, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Topsail Beach, NC
Amy G Therriault
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunn, NC 28334  (Online Only)
What thoughts race through your mind as you go through the day? What thoughts have become obstacles? Do those thoughts hold you captive in states of anxiety and depression? Do they make you feel unsafe, insecure, and isolated, even when we are surrounded by others? Do these thoughts make relationships complicated and responsibilities seem impossible? Are your mental and emotional stressors effecting your physical well-being in ways like physical pain, fatigue, sensory intolerance, brain fog, and inability to focus? Exploring your thoughts and feelings can be difficult, but you do not have to walk through this process alone.
What thoughts race through your mind as you go through the day? What thoughts have become obstacles? Do those thoughts hold you captive in states of anxiety and depression? Do they make you feel unsafe, insecure, and isolated, even when we are surrounded by others? Do these thoughts make relationships complicated and responsibilities seem impossible? Are your mental and emotional stressors effecting your physical well-being in ways like physical pain, fatigue, sensory intolerance, brain fog, and inability to focus? Exploring your thoughts and feelings can be difficult, but you do not have to walk through this process alone.
(919) 646-2779 View (919) 646-2779
Photo of Marcy Arnold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topsail Beach, NC
Marcy Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
(252) 772-9378 View (252) 772-9378
Photo of Lauren Morales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topsail Beach, NC
Lauren Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
I offer individual therapy to address various mental health concerns including survivorship, grief, adjustment to change, chronic illness, PTSD, & anxiety/depression.
Have you found yourself lying in bed awake at 2am your thoughts spinning? Maybe you've just gotten news from your doctor and you're feel flooded with overwhelm or fear. If you've found yourself in these situations, you likely find it difficult to relate to others who just don't "get it", you avoid situations that bring a sense of dread, you battle with feelings of hopeless/helplessness, and struggle to feel safe in your own body. I know how difficult it can be to reach out for help when the world around you and your mind are telling you it doesn't feel safe.
I offer individual therapy to address various mental health concerns including survivorship, grief, adjustment to change, chronic illness, PTSD, & anxiety/depression.
Have you found yourself lying in bed awake at 2am your thoughts spinning? Maybe you've just gotten news from your doctor and you're feel flooded with overwhelm or fear. If you've found yourself in these situations, you likely find it difficult to relate to others who just don't "get it", you avoid situations that bring a sense of dread, you battle with feelings of hopeless/helplessness, and struggle to feel safe in your own body. I know how difficult it can be to reach out for help when the world around you and your mind are telling you it doesn't feel safe.
(910) 519-8262 View (910) 519-8262
Photo of Sarah Brownlee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topsail Beach, NC
Sarah Brownlee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
At some point in our lives, we all experience pain or illness. So, what happens when pain or illness becomes a defining point in our lives? We may not do the things we used to do, we may not feel like ourselves, we may not live our lives the way we thought we would. BALANCE Integrative Care, PLLC, recognizes how broadly and deeply pain or illness may affect our lives. Our services support people to manage or cope with pain or illness in a way that allows them to live their lives more fully.
At some point in our lives, we all experience pain or illness. So, what happens when pain or illness becomes a defining point in our lives? We may not do the things we used to do, we may not feel like ourselves, we may not live our lives the way we thought we would. BALANCE Integrative Care, PLLC, recognizes how broadly and deeply pain or illness may affect our lives. Our services support people to manage or cope with pain or illness in a way that allows them to live their lives more fully.
(910) 663-4525 View (910) 663-4525
Photo of Connie Kern, Licensed Professional Counselor in Topsail Beach, NC
Connie Kern
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28303
I work well with those who choose to live consciously, exceptional clients and high achievers. I help people to navigate life regardless of the challenges they face from a strictly nonjudgemental perspective. I emphasize personal freedom in choosing the life you want, then help you to make the adjustments to get there by combining a wide range of skills, procedures, and exercises. So whether you're facing anxiety that prevents you from your perfect life, going through life changes, or you find that you are being limited by your beliefs, I'm here to help!
I work well with those who choose to live consciously, exceptional clients and high achievers. I help people to navigate life regardless of the challenges they face from a strictly nonjudgemental perspective. I emphasize personal freedom in choosing the life you want, then help you to make the adjustments to get there by combining a wide range of skills, procedures, and exercises. So whether you're facing anxiety that prevents you from your perfect life, going through life changes, or you find that you are being limited by your beliefs, I'm here to help!
(910) 634-2900 View (910) 634-2900
Photo of Kristin Hammond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topsail Beach, NC
Kristin Hammond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dunn, NC 28334  (Online Only)
There are times when life can really throw us some nasty curveballs. It's hard some days to even put one foot in front of another. Our joy can quickly vanish and be replaced by fear and sadness. I know that struggle. I was diagnosed with a significant health issue three years ago which led to horrible depression and anxiety . Now, I truly have a better understanding of where my clients are coming from and just how heavy depression and anxiety can be to carry. I also know it's possible to get your joy and peace of mind back. Whatever your struggles are, they can improve and I would be honored to help guide your path.
There are times when life can really throw us some nasty curveballs. It's hard some days to even put one foot in front of another. Our joy can quickly vanish and be replaced by fear and sadness. I know that struggle. I was diagnosed with a significant health issue three years ago which led to horrible depression and anxiety . Now, I truly have a better understanding of where my clients are coming from and just how heavy depression and anxiety can be to carry. I also know it's possible to get your joy and peace of mind back. Whatever your struggles are, they can improve and I would be honored to help guide your path.
(910) 613-9086 View (910) 613-9086
Photo of Malcolm C Harris, Counselor in Topsail Beach, NC
Malcolm C Harris
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28305
I'm a licensed clinical mental health counselor associate in North Carolina. I earned my bachelor’s degree from Troy University in Psychology with a minor in Exercise Science. I then went on to earn my master degree from North Carolina State University in clinical mental health counseling. I have three plus years of experience working in mental health and vocational rehabilitation counseling services.
I'm a licensed clinical mental health counselor associate in North Carolina. I earned my bachelor’s degree from Troy University in Psychology with a minor in Exercise Science. I then went on to earn my master degree from North Carolina State University in clinical mental health counseling. I have three plus years of experience working in mental health and vocational rehabilitation counseling services.
(919) 205-5065 x102 View (919) 205-5065 x102
Photo of Sagestone PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Topsail Beach, NC
Sagestone PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPCA, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Emerald Isle, NC 28594
At Sagestone, we respect and acknowledge the vital aspects of your life and take a "whole you" approach. We use empathy, compassion, and curiosity to better understand you and your needs. We listen. We share our experience, "know how", and provide thought-provoking, substantive, and practical process. We provide support that fosters safety, curiosity, and growth. We meet you where you are, in the here and now, allowing you to experience grounded vulnerability, presence, and acceptance, as you expand your way of being to embody inner peace, balance, and empowerment.
At Sagestone, we respect and acknowledge the vital aspects of your life and take a "whole you" approach. We use empathy, compassion, and curiosity to better understand you and your needs. We listen. We share our experience, "know how", and provide thought-provoking, substantive, and practical process. We provide support that fosters safety, curiosity, and growth. We meet you where you are, in the here and now, allowing you to experience grounded vulnerability, presence, and acceptance, as you expand your way of being to embody inner peace, balance, and empowerment.
(252) 674-1971 View (252) 674-1971
Photo of Anita Lynette Hagans, LCSW Associate in Topsail Beach, NC
Anita Lynette Hagans
LCSW Associate, MSW, MSIHS, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
I am excited to connect and partner with you in coming back to self. When working with me to establish change and growth in your life, you can expect to have open and authentic interaction with me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate (LCSWA) with 15+ years’ experience in mental health, social services, healthcare and I use my expertise to help guide you in the direction you aspire to go in your healing journey.
I am excited to connect and partner with you in coming back to self. When working with me to establish change and growth in your life, you can expect to have open and authentic interaction with me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate (LCSWA) with 15+ years’ experience in mental health, social services, healthcare and I use my expertise to help guide you in the direction you aspire to go in your healing journey.
(984) 646-2018 View (984) 646-2018
Photo of Haley Meyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Topsail Beach, NC
Haley Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405  (Online Only)
Life altering experiences can cause us to feel physically and emotionally unsafe. After these experiences, we often ruminate on the past, overthink and worry about the future, and expect that something bad may happen. Daily tasks can become difficult, and sometimes talking feels like it makes things worse. Imagine feeling secure, safe, and enjoying every day things without worrying about what’s next or living in the past. It is possible to find a way to accept things as they are, reconnect with the people you care about, and enjoy the things that mean the most to you. Please note I currently only offer virtual sessions in evenings.
Life altering experiences can cause us to feel physically and emotionally unsafe. After these experiences, we often ruminate on the past, overthink and worry about the future, and expect that something bad may happen. Daily tasks can become difficult, and sometimes talking feels like it makes things worse. Imagine feeling secure, safe, and enjoying every day things without worrying about what’s next or living in the past. It is possible to find a way to accept things as they are, reconnect with the people you care about, and enjoy the things that mean the most to you. Please note I currently only offer virtual sessions in evenings.
(910) 463-9841 View (910) 463-9841
Photo of Alice Brinkley Hobin, Counselor in Topsail Beach, NC
Alice Brinkley Hobin
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hampstead, NC 28443
Therapy is a uniquely personal and relational experience. Making time to work on issues that affect your quality of life is a valuable investment. Let's get started on you! I offer in-person and virtual sessions.
Therapy is a uniquely personal and relational experience. Making time to work on issues that affect your quality of life is a valuable investment. Let's get started on you! I offer in-person and virtual sessions.
(910) 537-3671 View (910) 537-3671
Photo of Chasity Meadows, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topsail Beach, NC
Chasity Meadows
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LCAS, MSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Will respond to inquiries in 24-48 hours. Hi! I'm Chasity, it's nice to meet you. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. Not feeling yourself, so let's talk… I believe everyone has the ability to heal no matter the amount of trauma you've endured. I feel like anyone can benefit from the therapeutic process when you are willing to put the work in. Let’s start today. I believe everyone can make some positive lifestyle changes, while achieving life goals, and learning to find, and love yourself again. Therapy has the ability to change lives, I see it everyday.
Will respond to inquiries in 24-48 hours. Hi! I'm Chasity, it's nice to meet you. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. Not feeling yourself, so let's talk… I believe everyone has the ability to heal no matter the amount of trauma you've endured. I feel like anyone can benefit from the therapeutic process when you are willing to put the work in. Let’s start today. I believe everyone can make some positive lifestyle changes, while achieving life goals, and learning to find, and love yourself again. Therapy has the ability to change lives, I see it everyday.
(910) 400-1505 View (910) 400-1505
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.