Photo of Joyce Hones, Counselor in Watauga County, NC
Joyce Hones
Counselor, LCMHCA, RYT200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Have you been experiencing pain that interferes with your daily functioning, feeling like you have to put on a brave face to get by, but suffering inside? Are you a young adult who previously led a vibrant, active life, now struggling to adjust to a diagnosis and figure out what that means for your present and future? Do you struggle with patterns of thoughts and emotions that heighten your pain and leave you feeling hopeless about ever escaping this cycle? Maybe you are starting to consider that traumatic events in the past have contributed to your current experience of pain and suffering.
Have you been experiencing pain that interferes with your daily functioning, feeling like you have to put on a brave face to get by, but suffering inside? Are you a young adult who previously led a vibrant, active life, now struggling to adjust to a diagnosis and figure out what that means for your present and future? Do you struggle with patterns of thoughts and emotions that heighten your pain and leave you feeling hopeless about ever escaping this cycle? Maybe you are starting to consider that traumatic events in the past have contributed to your current experience of pain and suffering.
(828) 415-5826 View (828) 415-5826
Photo of Tatyana Kholodkov, Psychologist in Watauga County, NC
Tatyana Kholodkov
Psychologist, PhD, DYRT
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Suffering presents itself in a number of ways- behaviors and relationships we desire to change, uncomfortable emotions, chronic health problems, and feeling out of touch with meaning in our lives. I aim to help clients not only feel better, but live a life according to their values. I work with adults across the lifespan to heal trauma, anxiety, and depression. Beyond feeling better, we work together on insight and growth. In addition to traditional psychotherapy, I offer customized intensives, ketamine assisted psychotherapy and psychedelic preparation/integration. My group practice affirms diversity, sex and body positivity.
Suffering presents itself in a number of ways- behaviors and relationships we desire to change, uncomfortable emotions, chronic health problems, and feeling out of touch with meaning in our lives. I aim to help clients not only feel better, but live a life according to their values. I work with adults across the lifespan to heal trauma, anxiety, and depression. Beyond feeling better, we work together on insight and growth. In addition to traditional psychotherapy, I offer customized intensives, ketamine assisted psychotherapy and psychedelic preparation/integration. My group practice affirms diversity, sex and body positivity.
(919) 351-8251 View (919) 351-8251
Photo of Tyler Deal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Watauga County, NC
Tyler Deal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Not accepting new clients
I have significant training, experience and passion for supporting folx coping with traumatic births, miscarriages, recurrent loss, medical trauma, cancer, chronic illness, terminal illness, death, dying, grief & loss.
I believe in the value of holistic, integrated care with mental health support coming alongside an individual or loved one's support team. I believe the authentic connection created within a therapeutic relationship supports individuals in accessing their inherent strength, wisdom and resilience in order to take natural steps in the direction of healing. I trust in your ability to heal, recover from serious setbacks, challenges and to make meaning in your life.
I have significant training, experience and passion for supporting folx coping with traumatic births, miscarriages, recurrent loss, medical trauma, cancer, chronic illness, terminal illness, death, dying, grief & loss.
I believe in the value of holistic, integrated care with mental health support coming alongside an individual or loved one's support team. I believe the authentic connection created within a therapeutic relationship supports individuals in accessing their inherent strength, wisdom and resilience in order to take natural steps in the direction of healing. I trust in your ability to heal, recover from serious setbacks, challenges and to make meaning in your life.
(828) 395-1978 View (828) 395-1978

Online Therapists

Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Watauga County, NC
Lisa Lavelle Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
My specialties: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief, relationship or family conflicts, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD or other problematic issues, bipolar disorder or other personality disorders.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
(828) 360-8820 View (828) 360-8820
Photo of Dr. Andrea Dughoff, Psychologist in Watauga County, NC
Dr. Andrea Dughoff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
My calling and expertise is to help women better manage anxiety, worry, and stress in order to cultivate and connect with their inner peace and joy. The pace of life seems to quicken with time, along with the multiple demands to be a good mom, wife, woman, and professional. It can seem impossible to find moments of rest and happiness while balancing “all of the things”. I have found that when women try to "do it all" it can lead to burnout, resentment, depression, and chronic illness. Are your nerves shot? Are you tired but wired? Are you struggling to reign-in unhealthy habits? You've come to the right place!
My calling and expertise is to help women better manage anxiety, worry, and stress in order to cultivate and connect with their inner peace and joy. The pace of life seems to quicken with time, along with the multiple demands to be a good mom, wife, woman, and professional. It can seem impossible to find moments of rest and happiness while balancing “all of the things”. I have found that when women try to "do it all" it can lead to burnout, resentment, depression, and chronic illness. Are your nerves shot? Are you tired but wired? Are you struggling to reign-in unhealthy habits? You've come to the right place!
(828) 415-5304 View (828) 415-5304
Photo of Jared Hinton, Counselor in Watauga County, NC
Jared Hinton
Counselor, MAT, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I specialize in helping people recover from relational trauma and experience issues related to co-dependency, grief, adverse childhood experiences and growing up around alcoholism, addiction or mental illness.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice in Asheville, North Carolina. A history teacher turned therapist, my theoretical influences stem from Contemplative and Buddhist Psychology, a deep interest and regard for Native American and indigenous cultures, village-mindedness, Gestalt Therapy, as well as my roles as a husband, father, and friend.
I specialize in helping people recover from relational trauma and experience issues related to co-dependency, grief, adverse childhood experiences and growing up around alcoholism, addiction or mental illness.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice in Asheville, North Carolina. A history teacher turned therapist, my theoretical influences stem from Contemplative and Buddhist Psychology, a deep interest and regard for Native American and indigenous cultures, village-mindedness, Gestalt Therapy, as well as my roles as a husband, father, and friend.
(828) 575-3066 View (828) 575-3066
Photo of Deidre Montgomery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watauga County, NC
Deidre Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
(336) 396-5798 View (336) 396-5798
Photo of Jennifer Beeghly, Psychologist in Watauga County, 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 Erin L Joyner in Watauga County, NC
Erin L Joyner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265  (Online Only)
My name is Erin Joyner, and I am a Master’s Intern Therapist at Breaking Cycles Counseling. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal relationships, life changes, and grief. I also specialize in helping clients living with chronic pain, illness, and disability. I can happily provide for a broad spectrum of needs for individual adults, seniors, teens, couples, and families, via telehealth. I always aim to help people by tailoring my approach to your individual needs. I have a nonjudgmental perspective on everyone and have yet to meet anyone from whom I can’t learn something, too!
My name is Erin Joyner, and I am a Master’s Intern Therapist at Breaking Cycles Counseling. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal relationships, life changes, and grief. I also specialize in helping clients living with chronic pain, illness, and disability. I can happily provide for a broad spectrum of needs for individual adults, seniors, teens, couples, and families, via telehealth. I always aim to help people by tailoring my approach to your individual needs. I have a nonjudgmental perspective on everyone and have yet to meet anyone from whom I can’t learn something, too!
(336) 715-0047 x102 View (336) 715-0047 x102
Photo of Tim Bandell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watauga County, NC
Tim Bandell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTTS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with hopelessness, ongoing despair, lack of motivation, worrying, panic? Can't relax? Is your past wreaking havoc on your present? Chronic pain consuming your life? Does it feel like life is just too much? Is your baggage damaging your relationship? In a safe space, I provide therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship stress, trauma, chronic pain or life transitions.
Are you struggling with hopelessness, ongoing despair, lack of motivation, worrying, panic? Can't relax? Is your past wreaking havoc on your present? Chronic pain consuming your life? Does it feel like life is just too much? Is your baggage damaging your relationship? In a safe space, I provide therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship stress, trauma, chronic pain or life transitions.
(828) 383-8385 View (828) 383-8385
Photo of Savana Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Watauga County, NC
Savana Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Candler, NC 28715  (Online Only)
I have worked with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and have experience in chronic pain/health psychology.
Accepting NEW clients! I know that finding a therapist can be an overwhelming process. I honor your courage and hope that I can provide a soft place for you to land. I aim to foster a safe, empowering, and collaborative space for my clients. Sometimes we find ourselves losing focus of our life's purpose. Together, we can help identify your values and incorporate them in your life. Through mindfulness practices and acceptance-based strategies, I can help you let go of what is no longer serving you. The ultimate goal for my clients is to decrease any areas of distress while pursuing your values and finding more meaning in your life.
I have worked with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and have experience in chronic pain/health psychology.
Accepting NEW clients! I know that finding a therapist can be an overwhelming process. I honor your courage and hope that I can provide a soft place for you to land. I aim to foster a safe, empowering, and collaborative space for my clients. Sometimes we find ourselves losing focus of our life's purpose. Together, we can help identify your values and incorporate them in your life. Through mindfulness practices and acceptance-based strategies, I can help you let go of what is no longer serving you. The ultimate goal for my clients is to decrease any areas of distress while pursuing your values and finding more meaning in your life.
(828) 539-4408 View (828) 539-4408
Photo of Olivia Sessions, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Watauga County, NC
Olivia Sessions
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
At Beyond the Mask, I encourage clients to move forward, be free from toxic thought patterns, and unmask the hidden layers of pain, fear, shame, grief, despair, and hopelessness, schedule your appointment today.
Often times we approach a point in life where we just need to reset. Have you experienced difficulty moving forward, being accepted or finding your way in new spaces? Do you find yourself with racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, and consistent overthinking. Do you need to learn how to set safe boundaries and walk in a path full of promise? Are you ready to break free from toxic thought patterns and negative self-talk? Do you want to embrace and believe the statement "I am enough"? If anxiety, fear, depression, or shame have been thoughts you've had over the past month. It's time for change and change starts here.
At Beyond the Mask, I encourage clients to move forward, be free from toxic thought patterns, and unmask the hidden layers of pain, fear, shame, grief, despair, and hopelessness, schedule your appointment today.
Often times we approach a point in life where we just need to reset. Have you experienced difficulty moving forward, being accepted or finding your way in new spaces? Do you find yourself with racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, and consistent overthinking. Do you need to learn how to set safe boundaries and walk in a path full of promise? Are you ready to break free from toxic thought patterns and negative self-talk? Do you want to embrace and believe the statement "I am enough"? If anxiety, fear, depression, or shame have been thoughts you've had over the past month. It's time for change and change starts here.
(704) 610-1556 View (704) 610-1556
Photo of Melissa Middlebrook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watauga County, NC
Melissa Middlebrook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MPH, RYT200
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28806
Waitlist for new clients
None of us are immune to life's challenges and we also don't come with instructions on how to navigate these. We often carry our past experiences and stress without realizing it— to the point where we feel it not only emotionally, but also in our physical bodies. Research confirms the mind and body aren’t so separate after all, but more of an interdependent unit greatly influencing one another. Past traumas, anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, chronic illness, difficult life transition, caught in the cycles of shame + self criticism; these are all labels and struggles many of us identify with at some point, but they don't define us.
None of us are immune to life's challenges and we also don't come with instructions on how to navigate these. We often carry our past experiences and stress without realizing it— to the point where we feel it not only emotionally, but also in our physical bodies. Research confirms the mind and body aren’t so separate after all, but more of an interdependent unit greatly influencing one another. Past traumas, anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, chronic illness, difficult life transition, caught in the cycles of shame + self criticism; these are all labels and struggles many of us identify with at some point, but they don't define us.
(828) 818-9110 View (828) 818-9110
Photo of Asha Sims, Licensed Professional Counselor in Watauga County, NC
Asha Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
Are you tired of traditional psychotherapy and feel like its not helping any more? Do you feel the current forms of treatment are not enough? Dealing with stress, anxiety, and overly sensitive to others? Body pain and somatic concerns? Feeling disconnected? Not grounded? Financial issues? Relationship issues? Its time to come into balance! Time to reconnect with SELF!!
Are you tired of traditional psychotherapy and feel like its not helping any more? Do you feel the current forms of treatment are not enough? Dealing with stress, anxiety, and overly sensitive to others? Body pain and somatic concerns? Feeling disconnected? Not grounded? Financial issues? Relationship issues? Its time to come into balance! Time to reconnect with SELF!!
(704) 703-7278 View (704) 703-7278
Photo of Neuronnection Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in Watauga County, NC
Neuronnection Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, EMDR II
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
At Neuroconnection Counseling, our mission is simple: help you heal from pain and trauma, grieve the losses you have experienced, develop effective skills to manage emotions, and grow into your full potential and talents. We are a trauma-informed practice, offering you an integrative approach, with an emphasis on techniques that tap into your brain's innate capacity for healing, such as EMDR and Brainspotting. We believe in creating a safe place for you to heal, that supports your dignity and uniqueness, allows you to explore and grow at your own pace.
At Neuroconnection Counseling, our mission is simple: help you heal from pain and trauma, grieve the losses you have experienced, develop effective skills to manage emotions, and grow into your full potential and talents. We are a trauma-informed practice, offering you an integrative approach, with an emphasis on techniques that tap into your brain's innate capacity for healing, such as EMDR and Brainspotting. We believe in creating a safe place for you to heal, that supports your dignity and uniqueness, allows you to explore and grow at your own pace.
(980) 291-4993 View (980) 291-4993
Photo of Online Teletherapy For Asheville North Carolina Martha Watson in Watauga County, NC
Online Teletherapy For Asheville North Carolina Martha Watson
PhD, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Navigate life challenges, battling stress, cancer, grief or loss, chronic conditions (migraines, pain), illness, healing anxiety, trauma, IBS or childs anger/stress.
Feeling overwhelmed by trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's anger? The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably increased stress and anxiety, impacting both adults and children's mental and physical well-being. A holistic approach that combines CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine offers evidence-based methods for lasting results. This comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of stress challenges, helping you cope, restore your health & handle life transitions. It tackles stress triggers like fear, negative emotions & feeling overwhelmed. Book your complimentary online consultation today for a drug free positive coping strategy.
Navigate life challenges, battling stress, cancer, grief or loss, chronic conditions (migraines, pain), illness, healing anxiety, trauma, IBS or childs anger/stress.
Feeling overwhelmed by trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's anger? The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably increased stress and anxiety, impacting both adults and children's mental and physical well-being. A holistic approach that combines CBT, mindfulness, and mind-body medicine offers evidence-based methods for lasting results. This comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of stress challenges, helping you cope, restore your health & handle life transitions. It tackles stress triggers like fear, negative emotions & feeling overwhelmed. Book your complimentary online consultation today for a drug free positive coping strategy.
(828) 888-0944 View (828) 888-0944
Photo of Tiffany Schiffner, Psychologist in Watauga County, NC
Tiffany Schiffner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28278  (Online Only)
Dr. Schiffner is a Latinx licensed psychologist who provides culturally inclusive, empowerment and compassion-based psychotherapy focused on heart healing. She offers individual therapy to adults, older adults (seniors) and psychological assessments to Veterans. Dr. Schiffner specializes in working with diverse client populations and combines cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, solution focused, sex positivity and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients with relationship difficulties, chronic health and pain concerns, and life transitions. She is trauma-informed and honors the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit.
Dr. Schiffner is a Latinx licensed psychologist who provides culturally inclusive, empowerment and compassion-based psychotherapy focused on heart healing. She offers individual therapy to adults, older adults (seniors) and psychological assessments to Veterans. Dr. Schiffner specializes in working with diverse client populations and combines cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, solution focused, sex positivity and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients with relationship difficulties, chronic health and pain concerns, and life transitions. She is trauma-informed and honors the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit.
(321) 730-3872 View (321) 730-3872
Photo of Kristin Kirk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watauga County, NC
Kristin Kirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
(704) 237-0421 View (704) 237-0421
Photo of Carole F Bombardier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Watauga County, NC
Carole F Bombardier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CHT, HCHI
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I specialize in women's issues including pregnancy, infertility, prenatal and postpartum depression/anxiety, weight issues, chronic pain from Fibromyalgia, PMS, and other chronic diseases.
It is my passion to help people help themselves using a holistic approach to address the whole person. Sometimes we get so caught up in the details of life that we have difficulty seeing the big picture. Counseling can help you get more out of life, help you reach your goals and work through challenges and move forward to create and live the life you desire. Stress, anxiety, phobias, depression and life transitions are just some of the issues that I typically address within my practice.
I specialize in women's issues including pregnancy, infertility, prenatal and postpartum depression/anxiety, weight issues, chronic pain from Fibromyalgia, PMS, and other chronic diseases.
It is my passion to help people help themselves using a holistic approach to address the whole person. Sometimes we get so caught up in the details of life that we have difficulty seeing the big picture. Counseling can help you get more out of life, help you reach your goals and work through challenges and move forward to create and live the life you desire. Stress, anxiety, phobias, depression and life transitions are just some of the issues that I typically address within my practice.
(704) 266-6691 View (704) 266-6691
Photo of Faith C Cook, Psychologist in Watauga County, NC
Faith C Cook
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
My treatment focuses on people with chronic illness, trauma, especially people with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, other autoimmune disorders and those who love a person with chronic illness. If you are struggling adapting to a new diagnosis of diabetes, or with the rigors of long-standing diabetes self-management, you are not alone. Diabetes distress and burnout have been well-defined and are treatable. If you love someone with chronic illness, and you find it difficult to manage your anxiety or have burnout yourself, please consider psychotherapy.
My treatment focuses on people with chronic illness, trauma, especially people with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, other autoimmune disorders and those who love a person with chronic illness. If you are struggling adapting to a new diagnosis of diabetes, or with the rigors of long-standing diabetes self-management, you are not alone. Diabetes distress and burnout have been well-defined and are treatable. If you love someone with chronic illness, and you find it difficult to manage your anxiety or have burnout yourself, please consider psychotherapy.
(828) 586-5555 View (828) 586-5555

See more therapy options for Watauga 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.