Photo of At-Home Counseling Services, Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Vance County, NC
At-Home Counseling Services, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MAC, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Henderson, NC 27536
"WE COME TO YOU" For adults & children at their home, school, via telehealth, or in our office. Our therapists work with children with behavioral challenges and adults with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, parenting issues, family therapy, stress, marital problems, PTSD, and more. AHCS has served clients since 2009. We serve over 400 clients across the state for Medicaid, private insurance, and self pay services.
"WE COME TO YOU" For adults & children at their home, school, via telehealth, or in our office. Our therapists work with children with behavioral challenges and adults with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, parenting issues, family therapy, stress, marital problems, PTSD, and more. AHCS has served clients since 2009. We serve over 400 clients across the state for Medicaid, private insurance, and self pay services.
(252) 302-2419 View (252) 302-2419
Photo of Tiffany Summers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vance County, NC
Tiffany Summers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henderson, NC 27536  (Online Only)
You deserve peace and happiness! If you are struggling with depression or anxiety, you don't have to go this alone. Taking the first step towards seeking support is an act of courage and self-care. As a dedicated clinical social worker with a passion for empowering individuals, I am here to support you on your journey toward improved mental well-being and emotional strength.
You deserve peace and happiness! If you are struggling with depression or anxiety, you don't have to go this alone. Taking the first step towards seeking support is an act of courage and self-care. As a dedicated clinical social worker with a passion for empowering individuals, I am here to support you on your journey toward improved mental well-being and emotional strength.
(919) 899-2040 View (919) 899-2040

Online Therapists

Photo of Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling in Vance County, NC
Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling
MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, NC 27889  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be…a bit of a rollercoaster at times and can often feel unmanageable. If you find yourself becoming bogged down by life’s twists and turns, I’m here to help! My name is Courtney Howard and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. My mission is to provide a safe space for you to explore, repair, and grow. Taking the steps to begin a counseling journey isn’t easy and I’m proud of you for searching for a therapist to fit your needs. Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, suffering with illness, grieving, or struggling with mood? Then I may be the perfect fit for you!
Life can be…a bit of a rollercoaster at times and can often feel unmanageable. If you find yourself becoming bogged down by life’s twists and turns, I’m here to help! My name is Courtney Howard and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. My mission is to provide a safe space for you to explore, repair, and grow. Taking the steps to begin a counseling journey isn’t easy and I’m proud of you for searching for a therapist to fit your needs. Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, suffering with illness, grieving, or struggling with mood? Then I may be the perfect fit for you!
(252) 486-5072 View (252) 486-5072
Photo of Cindy W Hickman, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Vance County, NC
Cindy W Hickman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sanford, NC 27330
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed with life, exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event? Perhaps you struggle with a chronic illness. Maybe you struggle with a difficult child or teen. Or maybe your partner has been unfaithful. Are you tired of feeling isolated and hopeless? You want- no, you need- things to change, but you don’t where to begin. Asking for help can be one of the most difficulty things to do, but I would be honored to help you discover your inner strength and begin your journey to healing and being who you are meant to be.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed with life, exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event? Perhaps you struggle with a chronic illness. Maybe you struggle with a difficult child or teen. Or maybe your partner has been unfaithful. Are you tired of feeling isolated and hopeless? You want- no, you need- things to change, but you don’t where to begin. Asking for help can be one of the most difficulty things to do, but I would be honored to help you discover your inner strength and begin your journey to healing and being who you are meant to be.
(984) 234-5683 View (984) 234-5683
Photo of DeBlaker Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vance County, NC
DeBlaker Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27527  (Online Only)
Accepting clients for video appointments only. Is everyone telling you its ok to be a little blue? Do you feel depressed, disappointed in the way life is going? Infertility, becoming a mom, being a mom of young children, even approaching an empty nest all can cause stress and anxiety. Or is your relationship or marriage troubled and you don't know how to fix it? Even life transitions such as a career change, loss of a job, diagnosis of a chronic illness or chronic pain can cause you to be stressed or anxious.
Accepting clients for video appointments only. Is everyone telling you its ok to be a little blue? Do you feel depressed, disappointed in the way life is going? Infertility, becoming a mom, being a mom of young children, even approaching an empty nest all can cause stress and anxiety. Or is your relationship or marriage troubled and you don't know how to fix it? Even life transitions such as a career change, loss of a job, diagnosis of a chronic illness or chronic pain can cause you to be stressed or anxious.
(919) 629-9045 View (919) 629-9045
Photo of Anne Mauldin, Psychologist in Vance County, NC
Anne Mauldin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
(252) 455-9998 View (252) 455-9998
Photo of Greensboro Counseling Partners, PLLC in Vance County, NC
Greensboro Counseling Partners, PLLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410  (Online Only)
Greensboro Counseling Partners is a private practice serving the counseling needs of adults and adolescents in the Triad area. Our therapists are masters level-trained clinicians with a combined experience spanning over 30 years in the mental health field. Our mission is to inspire hope and healing in those who struggle with depression, anxiety, and life challenges. We are here to walk with you through your pain, stress and struggles.
Greensboro Counseling Partners is a private practice serving the counseling needs of adults and adolescents in the Triad area. Our therapists are masters level-trained clinicians with a combined experience spanning over 30 years in the mental health field. Our mission is to inspire hope and healing in those who struggle with depression, anxiety, and life challenges. We are here to walk with you through your pain, stress and struggles.
(336) 739-4105 View (336) 739-4105
Photo of Christine L Jeffreys, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Vance County, NC
Christine L Jeffreys
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27616  (Online Only)
I have a heart for serving adults, adolescents, couples and families dealing with significant life issues such as the death of a loved one, chronic illness or pain, issues stemming from past trauma, parenting children with special needs, or managing chronic mental health conditions such as ADHD, anxiety and depression. I believe that it is helpful when a therapist has a personal understanding of the areas in which they specialize. I have personal experience with all of these circumstances, allowing me a level of empathy and insight that may not be possible otherwise.
I have a heart for serving adults, adolescents, couples and families dealing with significant life issues such as the death of a loved one, chronic illness or pain, issues stemming from past trauma, parenting children with special needs, or managing chronic mental health conditions such as ADHD, anxiety and depression. I believe that it is helpful when a therapist has a personal understanding of the areas in which they specialize. I have personal experience with all of these circumstances, allowing me a level of empathy and insight that may not be possible otherwise.
(984) 203-6996 View (984) 203-6996
Photo of Azleena Salleh Azhar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vance County, NC
Azleena Salleh Azhar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Waitlist for new clients
Are you trapped in a relationship with a narcissistic partner? Are you facing major life transitions, like coping with chronic illness, grief, and loss? Do you have a child or teen who is constantly struggling at home and at school? You are taking the right step by getting help! It took a lot of courage to overcome the stigma and reach this point. You don't have to walk alone. By tackling the issues together we can overcome the barriers of honor and shame.
Are you trapped in a relationship with a narcissistic partner? Are you facing major life transitions, like coping with chronic illness, grief, and loss? Do you have a child or teen who is constantly struggling at home and at school? You are taking the right step by getting help! It took a lot of courage to overcome the stigma and reach this point. You don't have to walk alone. By tackling the issues together we can overcome the barriers of honor and shame.
(919) 298-8107 View (919) 298-8107
Photo of Kylie Peele, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vance County, NC
Kylie Peele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
It may be difficult to find a therapist who is well versed on being sex positive, kink friendly, non-monogamous allied, and informed on chronic illnesses. These unique relationships require experience from someone who is passionate about them! You may need help with your multiple relationships, your relationship structure, or just someone to talk to who will not wince when your sex life is brought up. You may be struggling with a recent diagnosis of a chronic illness and want to talk with someone about it who understands the gravity a chronic illness diagnosis can bring. I love for clients to educate me on their lived experiences!
It may be difficult to find a therapist who is well versed on being sex positive, kink friendly, non-monogamous allied, and informed on chronic illnesses. These unique relationships require experience from someone who is passionate about them! You may need help with your multiple relationships, your relationship structure, or just someone to talk to who will not wince when your sex life is brought up. You may be struggling with a recent diagnosis of a chronic illness and want to talk with someone about it who understands the gravity a chronic illness diagnosis can bring. I love for clients to educate me on their lived experiences!
(984) 409-9049 View (984) 409-9049
Photo of Tiffany Rogers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Vance County, NC
Tiffany Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCASA, NCC, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612
However, what I can do is stand with you in your pain while we get through it together! I can guarantee you that I will provide you with professional counseling without judgment but with empathy and compassion .
Ever felt alone, rejected or misunderstood? Or simply just felt overwhelmed with many obstacles coming at once? If you have, you are not the only one, nor are you in this by yourself. In fact, I believe that it is my duty and my obligation to give you support and help you realize that there is a way to get your life back, to become a better you! Regardless if it is addiction, depression, anxiety or just overall life- you can overcome whatever you are facing with the right tools , skills and support.
However, what I can do is stand with you in your pain while we get through it together! I can guarantee you that I will provide you with professional counseling without judgment but with empathy and compassion .
Ever felt alone, rejected or misunderstood? Or simply just felt overwhelmed with many obstacles coming at once? If you have, you are not the only one, nor are you in this by yourself. In fact, I believe that it is my duty and my obligation to give you support and help you realize that there is a way to get your life back, to become a better you! Regardless if it is addiction, depression, anxiety or just overall life- you can overcome whatever you are facing with the right tools , skills and support.
(984) 207-3267 View (984) 207-3267
Photo of Jade Spielman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Vance County, NC
Jade Spielman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27407
Whether it is the loss of a person, loss of a job, or loss of a dream that you had once hoped for; I am trained and dedicated to providing a safe and compassionate space to process the phases of loss. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families on a variety of issues, with concentrations and specializations in grief and loss therapy, as well as the postpartum phases of life and pregnancy/infant loss. In addition, I work clients with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, stress management, trauma, chronic illness, abuse, phase of life issues, marital/couple conflict and divorce.
Whether it is the loss of a person, loss of a job, or loss of a dream that you had once hoped for; I am trained and dedicated to providing a safe and compassionate space to process the phases of loss. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families on a variety of issues, with concentrations and specializations in grief and loss therapy, as well as the postpartum phases of life and pregnancy/infant loss. In addition, I work clients with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, stress management, trauma, chronic illness, abuse, phase of life issues, marital/couple conflict and divorce.
(336) 530-5046 View (336) 530-5046
Photo of Kerrie Walters, Pre-Licensed Professional in Vance County, NC
Kerrie Walters
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA, CEAP
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in chronic illness, pain and autoimmune, as well as woman's issues.
My goal as an integrated clinician is to treat the whole person. When you feel like nobody knows what you’re going through, sharing your feelings with someone who truly gets it can make all the difference. I’ll help you make sense of your experiences and feel more optimistic about the future.
I specialize in chronic illness, pain and autoimmune, as well as woman's issues.
My goal as an integrated clinician is to treat the whole person. When you feel like nobody knows what you’re going through, sharing your feelings with someone who truly gets it can make all the difference. I’ll help you make sense of your experiences and feel more optimistic about the future.
(984) 249-3156 View (984) 249-3156
Photo of Wake Forest Peace of Mind, PLLC in Vance County, NC
Wake Forest Peace of Mind, PLLC
MS, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
I've worked at the Miami VA, Cambridge (Massachusetts) public high school, chronic pain clinic, older adult and community mental health clinic, and now in private practice since 1998.
You are not alone.. You have options.. You can make healthy changes to give you peace of mind. P.O.M. sessions are conducted in a gentle, honest, down-to-earth, and resourceful way. My 20+ years of experience treating couples, adults, and kids help me to better clarify your challenge(s), identify options, and share strategies for change. Approach: Cognitive behavioral. Experienced, trained, interested in treating these challenges: Relationship/marital, adoption, military, depression, anxiety, panic, stress, anger, parenting, chronic pain, and life transitions (menopause, relocation, divorce). See: WFPeaceofMind.com
I've worked at the Miami VA, Cambridge (Massachusetts) public high school, chronic pain clinic, older adult and community mental health clinic, and now in private practice since 1998.
You are not alone.. You have options.. You can make healthy changes to give you peace of mind. P.O.M. sessions are conducted in a gentle, honest, down-to-earth, and resourceful way. My 20+ years of experience treating couples, adults, and kids help me to better clarify your challenge(s), identify options, and share strategies for change. Approach: Cognitive behavioral. Experienced, trained, interested in treating these challenges: Relationship/marital, adoption, military, depression, anxiety, panic, stress, anger, parenting, chronic pain, and life transitions (menopause, relocation, divorce). See: WFPeaceofMind.com
(919) 249-7192 View (919) 249-7192
Photo of Maruka Rivers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vance County, NC
Maruka Rivers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, CDBT
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408  (Online Only)
Greetings, I am sure our paths have not crossed by accident. I'm curious to see where this journey will lead .Maybe right now you're deep in your feelings, feeling sad or numb, wishing to feel JOY again... or just feel anything but this. Maybe you've experienced trauma and it plays over and over again, the pain or fear won't go away. Maybe you're struggling with relationships, situationships, friendships, or family connections. Maybe you're worried all the time and you just can't relax. Maybe you've wished Iyanla would just come fix your life!!
Greetings, I am sure our paths have not crossed by accident. I'm curious to see where this journey will lead .Maybe right now you're deep in your feelings, feeling sad or numb, wishing to feel JOY again... or just feel anything but this. Maybe you've experienced trauma and it plays over and over again, the pain or fear won't go away. Maybe you're struggling with relationships, situationships, friendships, or family connections. Maybe you're worried all the time and you just can't relax. Maybe you've wished Iyanla would just come fix your life!!
(336) 396-5620 View (336) 396-5620
Photo of Becky Shaffer, Counselor in Vance County, NC
Becky Shaffer
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Life is not always easy, but I believe we all have the strength within us to grow, adapt, and heal. My goal is to create a safe space for you to uncover your own resilience and cultivate a sense of meaning and purpose in this life. I primarily work with adults of all ages facing a variety of concerns such as: anxiety, panic, mild-to-moderate depression, grief and loss, OCD, chronic and terminal physical illness, relational/family stressors, and difficulties related to addiction. I am able to integrate faith and spirituality into counseling if so desired.
Life is not always easy, but I believe we all have the strength within us to grow, adapt, and heal. My goal is to create a safe space for you to uncover your own resilience and cultivate a sense of meaning and purpose in this life. I primarily work with adults of all ages facing a variety of concerns such as: anxiety, panic, mild-to-moderate depression, grief and loss, OCD, chronic and terminal physical illness, relational/family stressors, and difficulties related to addiction. I am able to integrate faith and spirituality into counseling if so desired.
(919) 679-9515 View (919) 679-9515
Photo of Alysann Whitley Price, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vance County, NC
Alysann Whitley Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
(919) 925-4566 View (919) 925-4566
Photo of Sandra Painter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vance County, NC
Sandra Painter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27704
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, down, or struggling in relationships with family, friends or significant others? Are you experiencing loss or dealing with chronic illness in you or a family member? We all face a variety of challenging situations, emotions relationships and events. I believe there are times people may want to clarify their thinking about a problem or take their management of a life challenge up a notch. I believe my job is to support people’s efforts to do that by listening and assisting people in leveraging their strengths.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, down, or struggling in relationships with family, friends or significant others? Are you experiencing loss or dealing with chronic illness in you or a family member? We all face a variety of challenging situations, emotions relationships and events. I believe there are times people may want to clarify their thinking about a problem or take their management of a life challenge up a notch. I believe my job is to support people’s efforts to do that by listening and assisting people in leveraging their strengths.
(919) 766-2706 x24 View (919) 766-2706 x24
Photo of Michael Gisser, Marriage & Family Therapist in Vance County, NC
Michael Gisser
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
I feel that my experience allows me to connect and empathize with individuals and couples who might be dealing with the stress of marriage, military life and chronic illness, including depression and anxiety.
I am a former US Army chaplain and ordained rabbi trained in Marriage and Family Therapy with additional training in trauma recovery, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSD). My experience embodies an experiential integrative approach and I can individualize therapy to meet client goals. I work with individuals, couples, military personnel, veterans, and their families, and the LGBTQIA community. I am knowledgeable of world religions and diverse cultural backgrounds. I am currently accepting new clients in Pittsboro. To schedule an appointment vist our website - migcounseling.com
I feel that my experience allows me to connect and empathize with individuals and couples who might be dealing with the stress of marriage, military life and chronic illness, including depression and anxiety.
I am a former US Army chaplain and ordained rabbi trained in Marriage and Family Therapy with additional training in trauma recovery, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSD). My experience embodies an experiential integrative approach and I can individualize therapy to meet client goals. I work with individuals, couples, military personnel, veterans, and their families, and the LGBTQIA community. I am knowledgeable of world religions and diverse cultural backgrounds. I am currently accepting new clients in Pittsboro. To schedule an appointment vist our website - migcounseling.com
(984) 237-3579 View (984) 237-3579
Photo of Christi Bemister, PsyD, PLLC, Psychologist in Vance County, NC
Christi Bemister, PsyD, PLLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526  (Online Only)
I am a trauma informed therapist, with 30+ years’ experience, my own healing journey, and clinical education focused on chronic pain & illness.
I invite you to a safe and compassionate space to untangle and release difficulties that interfere with your quality or functioning in life. Taking a look at hurts can help normalize and clarify confusing or negative behavior, thoughts, and emotions to integrate past experiences. Embodiment, mindfulness, and somatic experiential practices lead you to gain physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. These practical techniques, along with education, and therapeutic processing will guide you along your path to integrated health and the resilience needed to manage the most stressful circumstances. You become your own best friend.
I am a trauma informed therapist, with 30+ years’ experience, my own healing journey, and clinical education focused on chronic pain & illness.
I invite you to a safe and compassionate space to untangle and release difficulties that interfere with your quality or functioning in life. Taking a look at hurts can help normalize and clarify confusing or negative behavior, thoughts, and emotions to integrate past experiences. Embodiment, mindfulness, and somatic experiential practices lead you to gain physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. These practical techniques, along with education, and therapeutic processing will guide you along your path to integrated health and the resilience needed to manage the most stressful circumstances. You become your own best friend.
(734) 796-1686 View (734) 796-1686

See more therapy options for Vance County

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.