Photo of La Vida Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waxhaw, NC
La Vida Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waxhaw, NC 28173
Our team of therapists are ready to help for individual or couples counseling! We offer in person and virtual session! Specialties include but not limited to: trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems and transitions into college. Please visit our website at www.lavidacounseling.com for more details about our therapists and services we offer. We offer counseling services and Immigration Evaluations to clients from age 5 years-Adult and video sessions and in person sessions. ¡Se habla Español!
Our team of therapists are ready to help for individual or couples counseling! We offer in person and virtual session! Specialties include but not limited to: trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems and transitions into college. Please visit our website at www.lavidacounseling.com for more details about our therapists and services we offer. We offer counseling services and Immigration Evaluations to clients from age 5 years-Adult and video sessions and in person sessions. ¡Se habla Español!
(704) 935-4208 View (704) 935-4208
Photo of Alli Becker, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Waxhaw, NC
Alli Becker
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Waxhaw, NC 28173
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you could wake up every morning feeling happy, fulfilled, and free of any consuming negative thoughts? If your answer is yes, you are in the right place. Whether you are struggling personally or in your relationships (of any sort: romantic, parent/child, etc.) we can help you. With over 15 years of experience with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples, we are able to provide world class treatment for a variety of mental health concerns. Take the step to end your suffering today. It is time for you to learn how to live the life you deserve.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you could wake up every morning feeling happy, fulfilled, and free of any consuming negative thoughts? If your answer is yes, you are in the right place. Whether you are struggling personally or in your relationships (of any sort: romantic, parent/child, etc.) we can help you. With over 15 years of experience with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples, we are able to provide world class treatment for a variety of mental health concerns. Take the step to end your suffering today. It is time for you to learn how to live the life you deserve.
(704) 869-2937 View (704) 869-2937

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Neuronnection Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in Waxhaw, NC
Neuronnection Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, EMDR II
Verified Verified
Indian Trail, NC 28079
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 Kirstin R. Abraham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waxhaw, NC
Kirstin R. Abraham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marvin, NC 28173
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression or relationship difficulties? Do you want to lead a healthier, more fulfilling life? My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more meaningful life.
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression or relationship difficulties? Do you want to lead a healthier, more fulfilling life? My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more meaningful life.
(704) 233-7594 View (704) 233-7594
Photo of Amber Turlik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waxhaw, NC
Amber Turlik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Monroe, NC 28110  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist with over 17 years of experience in the field. I have dedicated my life to helping others define and create the life that they want and am passionate in my efforts to serve all those that are suffering from the challenges of mental health and life transitions. My approach is holistic and I utilize several therapeutic modalities to include CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, DBT and Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment. I work to meet you where you are and utilize the appropriate interventions.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist with over 17 years of experience in the field. I have dedicated my life to helping others define and create the life that they want and am passionate in my efforts to serve all those that are suffering from the challenges of mental health and life transitions. My approach is holistic and I utilize several therapeutic modalities to include CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, DBT and Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment. I work to meet you where you are and utilize the appropriate interventions.
(910) 375-7532 View (910) 375-7532
Photo of LaTasha Miller, Psychologist in Waxhaw, NC
LaTasha Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28104
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling stuck? Do you need a space to be vulnerable? Do you want to learn more about yourself? Engaging in a therapeutic relationship can allow you to explore your emotions in a safe space. For me, the most important aspects of psychotherapy are safety and the relationship. I understand the need to feel supported before sharing. Many of my clients have experienced depression, trauma, anxiety, and life stress; my goal as your clinician is to help you process your concerns and bear witness to your growth. I enjoy working with those who are eager to deepen their understanding of themselves and their emotional functioning.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you need a space to be vulnerable? Do you want to learn more about yourself? Engaging in a therapeutic relationship can allow you to explore your emotions in a safe space. For me, the most important aspects of psychotherapy are safety and the relationship. I understand the need to feel supported before sharing. Many of my clients have experienced depression, trauma, anxiety, and life stress; my goal as your clinician is to help you process your concerns and bear witness to your growth. I enjoy working with those who are eager to deepen their understanding of themselves and their emotional functioning.
(704) 389-5542 View (704) 389-5542
Photo of Jenny Caldwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Waxhaw, NC
Jenny Caldwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I am passionate about working with individuals and families. I believe the client/ therapist relationship is a critical component of the therapeutic process and place emphasis on maintaining a nonjudgmental, caring, and safe environment for my clients. My compassion and use of evidence-based research models provide a space for me to empower and support clients. I believe that the therapy process is collaborative, both therapist and client work together to develop strategies and tools to help clients transition through stressful times. Using both long and short-term therapy approaches, I create an individual approach for clients.
I am passionate about working with individuals and families. I believe the client/ therapist relationship is a critical component of the therapeutic process and place emphasis on maintaining a nonjudgmental, caring, and safe environment for my clients. My compassion and use of evidence-based research models provide a space for me to empower and support clients. I believe that the therapy process is collaborative, both therapist and client work together to develop strategies and tools to help clients transition through stressful times. Using both long and short-term therapy approaches, I create an individual approach for clients.
(980) 326-4831 View (980) 326-4831

Online Therapists

Photo of Jude Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Waxhaw, NC
Jude Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
I teach MBSR, an 8-week evidenced-based course designed to help people face stress, pain, and illness.
I help people who are stressed, anxious, depressed and traumatized find more joy and peace in life. Are you feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, frustrated, or stuck? Do you avoid stress by compulsively checking your phone, consuming hours of media, or staying in bed for extended periods of time? Do you have trouble sleeping even when you’re tired? Are you stressed over competing demands from work, home and relationships? Do you need a break from your negative thoughts? Do you need someone who will really listen and understand? I will show you how to be mindful, so you can take your life back and heal your relationships.
I teach MBSR, an 8-week evidenced-based course designed to help people face stress, pain, and illness.
I help people who are stressed, anxious, depressed and traumatized find more joy and peace in life. Are you feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, frustrated, or stuck? Do you avoid stress by compulsively checking your phone, consuming hours of media, or staying in bed for extended periods of time? Do you have trouble sleeping even when you’re tired? Are you stressed over competing demands from work, home and relationships? Do you need a break from your negative thoughts? Do you need someone who will really listen and understand? I will show you how to be mindful, so you can take your life back and heal your relationships.
(704) 230-4797 View (704) 230-4797
Photo of Tia Hunter, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Waxhaw, NC
Tia Hunter
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408  (Online Only)
Working to ensure members of communities such as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, chronic illness, and hidden disabilities feel heard and seen is a daily goal.
I strive to create an environment for each client that is as liberating as it is welcoming to inspire a growth mindset. Our sessions have a person-centered foundation and incorporate approaches such as CBT, Somatic, ACT, Existential, Narrative, Brainspotting, and yoga-based therapies as needed. I find that the methods listed help foster a growth mindset and allow clients to reflect on their experiences and explore their goals and values at a pace that suits them. Sessions, treatment planning, and goals are the result of our partnership, and it's important that you always feel comfortable in the design of your care.
Working to ensure members of communities such as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, chronic illness, and hidden disabilities feel heard and seen is a daily goal.
I strive to create an environment for each client that is as liberating as it is welcoming to inspire a growth mindset. Our sessions have a person-centered foundation and incorporate approaches such as CBT, Somatic, ACT, Existential, Narrative, Brainspotting, and yoga-based therapies as needed. I find that the methods listed help foster a growth mindset and allow clients to reflect on their experiences and explore their goals and values at a pace that suits them. Sessions, treatment planning, and goals are the result of our partnership, and it's important that you always feel comfortable in the design of your care.
(336) 606-1652 View (336) 606-1652
Photo of Myriam Rabaste, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waxhaw, NC
Myriam Rabaste
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, EMDR, II
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
(704) 870-2290 View (704) 870-2290
Photo of Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Waxhaw, 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 Deidre Montgomery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waxhaw, 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 Rachel Garfield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Waxhaw, NC
Rachel Garfield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
All pain creates stress which intensifies the pain, becoming a vicious cycle that can lead to anxiety and depression, disruptive relations with others, and despair.
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addiction and relationships with adults with the goal of healing the client's relationship within themselves and with others. We will work through your past to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
All pain creates stress which intensifies the pain, becoming a vicious cycle that can lead to anxiety and depression, disruptive relations with others, and despair.
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addiction and relationships with adults with the goal of healing the client's relationship within themselves and with others. We will work through your past to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
(919) 535-4925 View (919) 535-4925
Photo of Valarie Anne Snell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waxhaw, NC
Valarie Anne Snell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
Waitlist for new clients
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
At my office, I hope to make sure all feel welcome. I want my clients to know that I hear you and I see you; your pain matters. Brutality at the hands of others is hard to process, but I hope we can go on that journey together. I specialize in trauma recovery, but also treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and more severe disorders. I work with my client to find what therapy methods work best for her/him/them, as we are all different individuals with different needs.
(336) 754-2119 x228 View (336) 754-2119 x228
Photo of Rock of Refuge Counseling Center, Counselor in Waxhaw, NC
Rock of Refuge Counseling Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
As the instruments of change, it is a privilege and honor to come alongside each person we support, as they navigate the uncertainty and pain that often comes as a result of our individual lived experiences.
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
As the instruments of change, it is a privilege and honor to come alongside each person we support, as they navigate the uncertainty and pain that often comes as a result of our individual lived experiences.
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
(980) 246-4177 View (980) 246-4177
Photo of Anna McDonough, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waxhaw, NC
Anna McDonough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
I provide counseling to individuals and couples for a range of issues including, but not limited to: ​ Anxiety and Depression, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Grief and Loss, Pain and Health Issues, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Parent-Child Issues, Work and Career Issues, & Spiritual Issues.
Our world is full of challenges, conflicting demands, and values. At Karis Counseling, I help individuals and couples establish a sense of direction and balance. ​ I counsel clients striving to overcome troubling issues by helping them to understand the origin of the dynamics behind these matters. With this understanding, we establish a clear path and direction to make changes that will bring resolution and fulfillment. ​ This is more than a business to me. It is a commitment and passion and I am honored to walk alongside you.
I provide counseling to individuals and couples for a range of issues including, but not limited to: ​ Anxiety and Depression, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Grief and Loss, Pain and Health Issues, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Parent-Child Issues, Work and Career Issues, & Spiritual Issues.
Our world is full of challenges, conflicting demands, and values. At Karis Counseling, I help individuals and couples establish a sense of direction and balance. ​ I counsel clients striving to overcome troubling issues by helping them to understand the origin of the dynamics behind these matters. With this understanding, we establish a clear path and direction to make changes that will bring resolution and fulfillment. ​ This is more than a business to me. It is a commitment and passion and I am honored to walk alongside you.
(307) 227-3663 View (307) 227-3663
Photo of Clete L deller, Counselor in Waxhaw, NC
Clete L deller
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lewisville, NC 27023  (Online Only)
We all want more Peace and less Pain in our live. The symptoms of trauma can prevent you from having the life you want, destroy your ability to have intimate and lasting relationships, and ultimately, steal your Peace. Peace or Pain Therapy will not only help you address trauma, but together we will create a concrete plan, for a Meaningful Values-Base Life.
We all want more Peace and less Pain in our live. The symptoms of trauma can prevent you from having the life you want, destroy your ability to have intimate and lasting relationships, and ultimately, steal your Peace. Peace or Pain Therapy will not only help you address trauma, but together we will create a concrete plan, for a Meaningful Values-Base Life.
View
Photo of Madalina Ochenatu, Counselor in Waxhaw, 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 Tamara Hicks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waxhaw, NC
Tamara Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212
I have learned that I am not for everyone and everyone is not for me. I am a whole vibe professionally speaking. Therapy is a journey one in which the client is in the drivers seat and the therapist is in the passenger seat, shotgun! The client that wants to get to the root of the pain, hurt, awkwardness, craziness, sadness, the list goes on is a great match with Ms. Tam. The client that also pulls from hope, spirit, experience, the unknown is a match with me. Its helpful for the client to remain open throughout at least 3-6 sessions after the assessment in order to fully rate symptom change.
I have learned that I am not for everyone and everyone is not for me. I am a whole vibe professionally speaking. Therapy is a journey one in which the client is in the drivers seat and the therapist is in the passenger seat, shotgun! The client that wants to get to the root of the pain, hurt, awkwardness, craziness, sadness, the list goes on is a great match with Ms. Tam. The client that also pulls from hope, spirit, experience, the unknown is a match with me. Its helpful for the client to remain open throughout at least 3-6 sessions after the assessment in order to fully rate symptom change.
(704) 313-1034 View (704) 313-1034
Photo of Karen Maynard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waxhaw, NC
Karen Maynard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Clemmons, NC 27012
Stress and emotional pain certainly impact employment/school performance, interpersonal relationships, and physical health. Chronic stress/emotional pain can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and misguided coping through substances. It changes your perception; contributes to conflict with family/friends and situations previously managed become overwhelming. If this sounds familiar, Health Matters can help.
Stress and emotional pain certainly impact employment/school performance, interpersonal relationships, and physical health. Chronic stress/emotional pain can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and misguided coping through substances. It changes your perception; contributes to conflict with family/friends and situations previously managed become overwhelming. If this sounds familiar, Health Matters can help.
(336) 515-0738 View (336) 515-0738
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.