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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karen R Liddell, Pastoral Counselor in Troutman, NC
Karen R Liddell
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LCPC, Rev
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117  (Online Only)
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
(980) 372-8371 View (980) 372-8371
Photo of Strengthening Foundations Child & Family Cnslng, Licensed Professional Counselor in Troutman, NC
Strengthening Foundations Child & Family Cnslng
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117  (Online Only)
Facing life's challenges and transitions should not be done alone. When you encounter issues arising from lifecycle changes, relational turmoil or any other challenges that invoke a crisis or grief, it is important to have genuine and empathetic support to guide you without passing judgment. As a spouse of a retired veteran, I have over 20 years of experience adapting to the lifestyle challenges that the military community encounters. I have helped many families successfully cope with the military lifestyle, relational struggles and raise special children.
Facing life's challenges and transitions should not be done alone. When you encounter issues arising from lifecycle changes, relational turmoil or any other challenges that invoke a crisis or grief, it is important to have genuine and empathetic support to guide you without passing judgment. As a spouse of a retired veteran, I have over 20 years of experience adapting to the lifestyle challenges that the military community encounters. I have helped many families successfully cope with the military lifestyle, relational struggles and raise special children.
(910) 672-6766 View (910) 672-6766
Photo of Christina J Luke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Troutman, NC
Christina J Luke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, TF-CBT, (CR), LCMHC
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28117
I, Christina Jean Luke, have obtained a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, granted by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2010, with over ten years of pre-graduate and post graduate experience in the counseling field. I am a Licensed Practicing Counselor in NC.
I, Christina Jean Luke, have obtained a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, granted by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2010, with over ten years of pre-graduate and post graduate experience in the counseling field. I am a Licensed Practicing Counselor in NC.
(980) 238-2473 View (980) 238-2473
Photo of Jeannine Bodner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Troutman, NC
Jeannine Bodner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28115
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 Tyler Kramer, Counselor in Troutman, NC
Tyler Kramer
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28115
Have you ever felt as though everything that you’ve planned for in your life is falling apart piece by piece? Sometimes when this is happening we feel as though we are alone. What if the answer is right in front of us and we just can’t find it? Sometimes it helps to have a second person, someone to walk the journey along side you, someone who won’t judge you but will walk with you side by side to help guide you to find that missing piece. I want to work with you where you are at and help you achieve the goals you want to achieve. Together as a team we will work step by step to achieve a happier and healthier life.
Have you ever felt as though everything that you’ve planned for in your life is falling apart piece by piece? Sometimes when this is happening we feel as though we are alone. What if the answer is right in front of us and we just can’t find it? Sometimes it helps to have a second person, someone to walk the journey along side you, someone who won’t judge you but will walk with you side by side to help guide you to find that missing piece. I want to work with you where you are at and help you achieve the goals you want to achieve. Together as a team we will work step by step to achieve a happier and healthier life.
(980) 220-4639 View (980) 220-4639
Photo of Jessica Wing, Counselor in Troutman, NC
Jessica Wing
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily work with teenagers, older children, families, and young adults. I feel that adolescents have their entire future in front of them, and it is the most opportune time to learn positive thinking patterns, coping skills, and life strategies. Teenagers are at a pivotal point in their lives, facing many large life decisions. Having a neutral person to be open with in life is invaluable. I have worked with clients through many challenges such as (not limited to) depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, trauma, grief, self-harm, self-esteem, sexual identity, school struggles, behavioral/impulse challenges, and anger management.
I primarily work with teenagers, older children, families, and young adults. I feel that adolescents have their entire future in front of them, and it is the most opportune time to learn positive thinking patterns, coping skills, and life strategies. Teenagers are at a pivotal point in their lives, facing many large life decisions. Having a neutral person to be open with in life is invaluable. I have worked with clients through many challenges such as (not limited to) depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, trauma, grief, self-harm, self-esteem, sexual identity, school struggles, behavioral/impulse challenges, and anger management.
(980) 385-5775 View (980) 385-5775
Photo of Réa M. Wright, Licensed Professional Counselor in Troutman, NC
Réa M. Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
Want to live a Joyful, Vibrant, & Conscious life? Understanding that you are important, relevant & that you matter, is step one. Your relationship with your SELF affects every aspect of your life & often small changes can lead to big shifts! If you want to feel differently, want satisfying relationships, & to cope with life's stressors in an empowered & positive way, then please do reach out to me. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space in which you can explore feelings, thoughts & beliefs, both conscious & unconscious, that may be keeping you stuck. You don't have to keep struggling alone. I'm just an email away!
Want to live a Joyful, Vibrant, & Conscious life? Understanding that you are important, relevant & that you matter, is step one. Your relationship with your SELF affects every aspect of your life & often small changes can lead to big shifts! If you want to feel differently, want satisfying relationships, & to cope with life's stressors in an empowered & positive way, then please do reach out to me. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space in which you can explore feelings, thoughts & beliefs, both conscious & unconscious, that may be keeping you stuck. You don't have to keep struggling alone. I'm just an email away!
(704) 216-4296 View (704) 216-4296
Photo of Mood and Food Connections, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Troutman, NC
Mood and Food Connections, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28115
Not accepting new clients
With life experiences come pain, loss and suffering.
As a therapist, my goal is to provide a supportive and empowering approach to therapy that will create lasting change in my clients lives, help them manage symptoms and live optimally. When you or someone you love is in crisis, choosing to find a therapist is the best decision. My goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment. I provide support and healing to those experiencing difficult life transitions such as anxiety, depression, women in transition, individuals with weight related issues, self-esteem, family dynamics or other problems that arent easy to get through alone.
With life experiences come pain, loss and suffering.
As a therapist, my goal is to provide a supportive and empowering approach to therapy that will create lasting change in my clients lives, help them manage symptoms and live optimally. When you or someone you love is in crisis, choosing to find a therapist is the best decision. My goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment. I provide support and healing to those experiencing difficult life transitions such as anxiety, depression, women in transition, individuals with weight related issues, self-esteem, family dynamics or other problems that arent easy to get through alone.
(704) 751-1283 View (704) 751-1283

Online Therapists

Photo of Grace Parsley, Counselor in Troutman, NC
Grace Parsley
Counselor, MS, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I’ve always found that authenticity is the only path to true connection. For those wanting support in transition(s), processing loss or trauma, living with chronic illness/disability, or simply unable to find your way forward; You deserve a counselor who will see you as a person first, not defined by your struggles but someone deserving of validation, support, and care. I pay close attention to the systems in which you are surrounded, the relationships that factor in your wellness, how the past informs the present, and the strengths you have within yourself to make a meaningful life.
I’ve always found that authenticity is the only path to true connection. For those wanting support in transition(s), processing loss or trauma, living with chronic illness/disability, or simply unable to find your way forward; You deserve a counselor who will see you as a person first, not defined by your struggles but someone deserving of validation, support, and care. I pay close attention to the systems in which you are surrounded, the relationships that factor in your wellness, how the past informs the present, and the strengths you have within yourself to make a meaningful life.
(828) 547-9064 View (828) 547-9064
Photo of Kathryn Falbo-Woodson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Troutman, NC
Kathryn Falbo-Woodson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Stress is inevitable, it's how we respond to it that matters. While stress can be a catalyst for spiritual, physical, and emotional growth, it impacts our well-being. During stressful times, it's important to recognize emotional and physical changes. Often, we neglect our internal experiences because of the fear of pain. When we avoid the pain, we essentially shut ourselves off from growth. My goal is to support you through challenging times, allowing you to open fully to the present moment by incorporating compassion-oriented & mindfulness-based strategies to withstand the suffering and lean into a growth mindset.
Stress is inevitable, it's how we respond to it that matters. While stress can be a catalyst for spiritual, physical, and emotional growth, it impacts our well-being. During stressful times, it's important to recognize emotional and physical changes. Often, we neglect our internal experiences because of the fear of pain. When we avoid the pain, we essentially shut ourselves off from growth. My goal is to support you through challenging times, allowing you to open fully to the present moment by incorporating compassion-oriented & mindfulness-based strategies to withstand the suffering and lean into a growth mindset.
(318) 705-3019 View (318) 705-3019
Photo of Jennifer Beeghly, Psychologist in Troutman, NC
Jennifer Beeghly
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I have specialized expertise in providing evidenced-based therapy to treat PTSD, adjustment from military service, relationship dissatisfaction, couple therapy, insomnia, pain, anxiety, somatic concerns, suicidality, and depression.
I am a licensed doctoral level clinical psychologist who provides individual and couple therapy. My approach is individualized based on the specific needs and goals of each client or couple and involves providing warmth and genuineness. My role is to assist you in gaining insight and perspective into the obstacles that are limiting you from living the life that you desire using a supportive and non-judgmental style that will facilitate personal exploration.
I have specialized expertise in providing evidenced-based therapy to treat PTSD, adjustment from military service, relationship dissatisfaction, couple therapy, insomnia, pain, anxiety, somatic concerns, suicidality, and depression.
I am a licensed doctoral level clinical psychologist who provides individual and couple therapy. My approach is individualized based on the specific needs and goals of each client or couple and involves providing warmth and genuineness. My role is to assist you in gaining insight and perspective into the obstacles that are limiting you from living the life that you desire using a supportive and non-judgmental style that will facilitate personal exploration.
(828) 528-3413 View (828) 528-3413
Photo of Vanessa Guerrero, LCMHC Associate in Troutman, NC
Vanessa Guerrero
LCMHC Associate, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
I work primarily with female adolescents and young adults with a history of chronic illness, trauma, perfectionism, depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders.
Currently Accepting Clients ( Telehealth Only)-My name is Vanessa Guerero and I am a clinical therapist with Winter to Spring Wellness. Prior to being in Asheville for almost a decade, I originally hail from Miami, Fl. I am a proud daughter of Cuban immigrants and a first-generation college student. As a teen I had my own battles with physical and mental wellness, difficulties with acculturation as well as struggled with cultural stigma in regard to mental health care. Through my own work, I have been able to find healing and am now honored to support others who struggle with their own mental wellness and similar issues.
I work primarily with female adolescents and young adults with a history of chronic illness, trauma, perfectionism, depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders.
Currently Accepting Clients ( Telehealth Only)-My name is Vanessa Guerero and I am a clinical therapist with Winter to Spring Wellness. Prior to being in Asheville for almost a decade, I originally hail from Miami, Fl. I am a proud daughter of Cuban immigrants and a first-generation college student. As a teen I had my own battles with physical and mental wellness, difficulties with acculturation as well as struggled with cultural stigma in regard to mental health care. Through my own work, I have been able to find healing and am now honored to support others who struggle with their own mental wellness and similar issues.
(828) 382-8550 View (828) 382-8550
Photo of Carol Greenberger, Counselor in Troutman, 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 SHINE Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Troutman, NC
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
We want to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to living your best life as you want it to be.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
We want to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to living your best life as you want it to be.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
(704) 327-0132 View (704) 327-0132
Photo of Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Troutman, 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 Lucyna Sonek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Troutman, 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 Samii Stephens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Troutman, NC
Samii Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Hi there! Thank you for taking the initiative to seek care for yourself or a loved one. I have multiple years of experience in working with adolescents and adults in the mental health field. Primarily, my areas of focus are treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain/chronic illness and mental health in athletes. I appreciate holistic approaches to therapy but I enjoy being able to adapt treatment to the unique characteristics/needs of each client. My hope is to be a support for you as you reach your goals, face obstacles and celebrate victories!
Hi there! Thank you for taking the initiative to seek care for yourself or a loved one. I have multiple years of experience in working with adolescents and adults in the mental health field. Primarily, my areas of focus are treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain/chronic illness and mental health in athletes. I appreciate holistic approaches to therapy but I enjoy being able to adapt treatment to the unique characteristics/needs of each client. My hope is to be a support for you as you reach your goals, face obstacles and celebrate victories!
(704) 272-1379 View (704) 272-1379
Photo of Madalina Ochenatu, Counselor in Troutman, 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 Kayla Patterson, Counselor in Troutman, NC
Kayla Patterson
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults experiencing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, chronic pain, relationship troubles, or struggling with spirituality/faith concerns (i.
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults experiencing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, chronic pain, relationship troubles, or struggling with spirituality/faith concerns (i.
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
(704) 389-5748 View (704) 389-5748
Photo of Daniel Pak, Counselor in Troutman, NC
Daniel Pak
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
People commonly say life is a journey full of ups and downs, but sometimes we feel our journey is only going down. We are left feeling lost, trapped, and in pain. Sadly, we do not always have the help or the resources to get through these moments due to various circumstances in our life. Therapy is not a fix-all solution, but it can be the catalyst to taking steps out of what can feel like a bottomless pit and give us the strength to face our problems. I hope that I can be a steadfast presence for support through whatever you are experiencing and help you find your path through your darkest of valleys.
People commonly say life is a journey full of ups and downs, but sometimes we feel our journey is only going down. We are left feeling lost, trapped, and in pain. Sadly, we do not always have the help or the resources to get through these moments due to various circumstances in our life. Therapy is not a fix-all solution, but it can be the catalyst to taking steps out of what can feel like a bottomless pit and give us the strength to face our problems. I hope that I can be a steadfast presence for support through whatever you are experiencing and help you find your path through your darkest of valleys.
(704) 703-5458 View (704) 703-5458

See more therapy options for Troutman


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.