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Online Therapists

Photo of Gene Haas, Psychological Associate in Wilkesboro, NC
Gene Haas
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
Clients with chronic illness, or pain, or PTSD work well with my approach to therapy including the use of EMDR.
I work best with an individual client, couple, or the family of a child or adolescent that recognizes that what they have been trying to do to deal with their life or behavioral issues is not working well, and they are now open to finding understanding, and trying new approaches to old, or recently acute problems. My experience has been that most couples really want to save their marriage or other family relationships and will do the work necessary to build a new and loving relationship.
Clients with chronic illness, or pain, or PTSD work well with my approach to therapy including the use of EMDR.
I work best with an individual client, couple, or the family of a child or adolescent that recognizes that what they have been trying to do to deal with their life or behavioral issues is not working well, and they are now open to finding understanding, and trying new approaches to old, or recently acute problems. My experience has been that most couples really want to save their marriage or other family relationships and will do the work necessary to build a new and loving relationship.
(704) 326-1197 View (704) 326-1197
Photo of SHINE Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilkesboro, NC
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
We want to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to living your best life as you want it to be.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
We want to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to living your best life as you want it to be.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
(704) 327-0132 View (704) 327-0132
Photo of Guy Morganstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilkesboro, NC
Guy Morganstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I also enjoy working with people dealing with chronic pain and illness, and those with LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
I also enjoy working with people dealing with chronic pain and illness, and those with LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
(828) 337-7549 View (828) 337-7549
Photo of Karen Maynard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilkesboro, 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
Photo of Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Wilkesboro, NC
Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CRC, CCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
We've worked with patients living with chronic pain, chronic diseases (Diabetes, Hypertension, HIV/AIDS, Lupus, Sickle Cell), perinatal mental health concerns, anxiety, depression and those needing career/vocational coaching.
We give so much of ourselves to our jobs, families, friends and more that we often lose ourselves and focus on the daily struggle of just surviving. Becoming overwhelmed or feeling anxious, depressed, scared or even angry, may stop you from reaching your full potential. We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. We have a passion for helping others to find their voice, passion, and to create a healthier reality than their present state. We provide Teletherapy & Coaching services. Therapy services are provided by a Four Therapists & Coaching services by Drs. Watkins, Elbert & Blumell.
We've worked with patients living with chronic pain, chronic diseases (Diabetes, Hypertension, HIV/AIDS, Lupus, Sickle Cell), perinatal mental health concerns, anxiety, depression and those needing career/vocational coaching.
We give so much of ourselves to our jobs, families, friends and more that we often lose ourselves and focus on the daily struggle of just surviving. Becoming overwhelmed or feeling anxious, depressed, scared or even angry, may stop you from reaching your full potential. We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. We have a passion for helping others to find their voice, passion, and to create a healthier reality than their present state. We provide Teletherapy & Coaching services. Therapy services are provided by a Four Therapists & Coaching services by Drs. Watkins, Elbert & Blumell.
(704) 512-0618 View (704) 512-0618
Photo of The International Center for Wellness PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilkesboro, NC
The International Center for Wellness PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
Getting to the root cause of mental illness is ideal for successful long term recovery.
The Center for Wellness PLLC is a small group practice dedicated in providing high quality care tailored to meet your individual needs. Our goal is to provide an intimate environment that is safe, supportive and confidential. We offer a wide variety of experience working with many different life challenges. We will walk with you through your journey and work with you to restore health, hope and healing holistically. Lekeshia Lynch, founder and clinical director of the Center for Wellness is a graduate of the University of South Carolina-Columbia. She has over 25 years experience in the field of health/mental health and addiction.
(704) 327-5647 x101 View (704) 327-5647 x101
Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilkesboro, 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 Full Circle Community Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilkesboro, NC
Full Circle Community Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, PsyD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Full Circle Counseling and Wellness provides access to high quality, experienced counselors and integrative wellness practitioners who operate in a holistic, community oriented environment. Our counselors have experience with a wide range of emotional and psychological health challenges and seek to make effective treatment strategies affordable and sustainable. We employ the power of relationship for therapeutic benefit and to help foster belonging and connection by surrounding you with resources and support. Whether making art together, weeding gardens, or playing a board game, we hope to provide community oriented opportunities for everyone.
Full Circle Counseling and Wellness provides access to high quality, experienced counselors and integrative wellness practitioners who operate in a holistic, community oriented environment. Our counselors have experience with a wide range of emotional and psychological health challenges and seek to make effective treatment strategies affordable and sustainable. We employ the power of relationship for therapeutic benefit and to help foster belonging and connection by surrounding you with resources and support. Whether making art together, weeding gardens, or playing a board game, we hope to provide community oriented opportunities for everyone.
(828) 483-4232 View (828) 483-4232
Photo of Nova Lux Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilkesboro, NC
Nova Lux Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MD, PhD, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28246
Nova Lux Counseling works with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from traditional therapy from depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, we offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of the clients' individual needs.
Nova Lux Counseling works with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from traditional therapy from depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, we offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of the clients' individual needs.
(203) 539-6250 View (203) 539-6250
Photo of Greenway Counseling & Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilkesboro, NC
Greenway Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCMHC, LCMHCA, LCASA, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
[Good news! Day, evening & Saturday openings are now available] As a group practice, we have a particular interest in helping our adult clients address traumas that may have occurred across their lifespan. Trauma can come in all shapes & sizes - we believe that trauma can be at the center of many concerns like anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, performance issues, & addiction, to name a few. We also love working with little ones, teens, and their families! Fears & worries, behavior problems, family & life changes, school & relationship struggles - these are just a few reasons why we see younger people & families.
[Good news! Day, evening & Saturday openings are now available] As a group practice, we have a particular interest in helping our adult clients address traumas that may have occurred across their lifespan. Trauma can come in all shapes & sizes - we believe that trauma can be at the center of many concerns like anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, performance issues, & addiction, to name a few. We also love working with little ones, teens, and their families! Fears & worries, behavior problems, family & life changes, school & relationship struggles - these are just a few reasons why we see younger people & families.
(336) 496-2361 View (336) 496-2361
Photo of Strengthening Foundations Child & Family Cnslng, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilkesboro, NC
Strengthening Foundations Child & Family Cnslng
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078  (Online Only)
Facing life's challenges and transitions should not be done alone. When you encounter issues arising from lifecycle changes, relational turmoil or any other challenges that invoke a crisis or grief, it is important to have genuine and empathetic support to guide you without passing judgment. As a spouse of a retired veteran, I have over 20 years of experience adapting to the lifestyle challenges that the military community encounters. I have helped many families successfully cope with the military lifestyle, relational struggles and raise special children.
Facing life's challenges and transitions should not be done alone. When you encounter issues arising from lifecycle changes, relational turmoil or any other challenges that invoke a crisis or grief, it is important to have genuine and empathetic support to guide you without passing judgment. As a spouse of a retired veteran, I have over 20 years of experience adapting to the lifestyle challenges that the military community encounters. I have helped many families successfully cope with the military lifestyle, relational struggles and raise special children.
(910) 672-6766 View (910) 672-6766
Photo of Litha Charles, Asheboro Counseling and Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilkesboro, NC
Litha Charles, Asheboro Counseling and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Asheboro, NC 27203
I am a North Carolina Board Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor. Prior to working in Asheboro, I have worked in public school and university settings and have ten years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of concerns. I offer individual counseling for adults, adolescents, and children, as well as marital/premarital and family counseling. I am equipped and interested in integrating one's spiritual values and beliefs into the counseling process to the extent the client allows them to be.
I am a North Carolina Board Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor. Prior to working in Asheboro, I have worked in public school and university settings and have ten years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of concerns. I offer individual counseling for adults, adolescents, and children, as well as marital/premarital and family counseling. I am equipped and interested in integrating one's spiritual values and beliefs into the counseling process to the extent the client allows them to be.
(336) 656-2639 View (336) 656-2639
Photo of Dr. Heather Dancy Morgan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilkesboro, NC
Dr. Heather Dancy Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW, CFMHE, CCCE, CCAPT
Verified Verified
Lexington, NC 27292
Do you feel on overload from anxiety or a deep sadness that won't just go away? Sometimes we reach a point where we feel we need a little extra help to get through a situation we are facing, or sometimes just life in general. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental approach to counseling and welcome those experiencing life's challenges. I have dedicated my life to behavioral health and wellness and specialize in working with those experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, mood disorders, thought disorders and PTSD, among many others. I also offer Mental Health Assessments, Parenting Capacity Assessments and Child Custody Evaluations.
Do you feel on overload from anxiety or a deep sadness that won't just go away? Sometimes we reach a point where we feel we need a little extra help to get through a situation we are facing, or sometimes just life in general. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental approach to counseling and welcome those experiencing life's challenges. I have dedicated my life to behavioral health and wellness and specialize in working with those experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, mood disorders, thought disorders and PTSD, among many others. I also offer Mental Health Assessments, Parenting Capacity Assessments and Child Custody Evaluations.
(336) 447-1661 View (336) 447-1661
Photo of Marie Leskauskas, Counselor in Wilkesboro, NC
Marie Leskauskas
Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Each person is a unique individual whose life and experience is different from anyone else, and deserves to be addressed with unconditional positive regard for themselves and their circumstances. This is why I place an emphasis on authenticity and the importance of understanding each person as a whole, focusing on healing through the integration of mental, physical, and spiritual health. As a therapist, I will involve strategies and techniques including CBT, sandtray and sandplay, motivational interviewing, addressing the mind and body connection, and the incorporation of ongoing psychoeducation.
Each person is a unique individual whose life and experience is different from anyone else, and deserves to be addressed with unconditional positive regard for themselves and their circumstances. This is why I place an emphasis on authenticity and the importance of understanding each person as a whole, focusing on healing through the integration of mental, physical, and spiritual health. As a therapist, I will involve strategies and techniques including CBT, sandtray and sandplay, motivational interviewing, addressing the mind and body connection, and the incorporation of ongoing psychoeducation.
(980) 575-5082 View (980) 575-5082
Photo of Jefferson Mccombs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilkesboro, NC
Jefferson Mccombs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Kannapolis, NC 28083
My ideal client would be a person who is motivated for change, however one of my main specialties is the ablilty to work with unmotivated and even hostile clients who have been court ordered or adolescents who are forced to come by their parents. I can work with a client on a myriad of issues including anixiety, depression, low self-esteem, complusions and addictions.
My ideal client would be a person who is motivated for change, however one of my main specialties is the ablilty to work with unmotivated and even hostile clients who have been court ordered or adolescents who are forced to come by their parents. I can work with a client on a myriad of issues including anixiety, depression, low self-esteem, complusions and addictions.
(704) 751-4949 x2 View (704) 751-4949 x2
Photo of E. Brooke Barnard, Counselor in Wilkesboro, NC
E. Brooke Barnard
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I have an avid interest in helping children, adults, and families dealing with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental and/or physical challenges, and Academically Gifted and Talented. I also specialize in supporting clients and families coping with chronic and/or serious illnesses. Siblings, who are often overlooked in these families, are of special concern to me. Depression, anxiety and grief and loss issues due to death, divorce and other life changes hold a special interest for me as well.
I have an avid interest in helping children, adults, and families dealing with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental and/or physical challenges, and Academically Gifted and Talented. I also specialize in supporting clients and families coping with chronic and/or serious illnesses. Siblings, who are often overlooked in these families, are of special concern to me. Depression, anxiety and grief and loss issues due to death, divorce and other life changes hold a special interest for me as well.
(336) 790-4638 View (336) 790-4638
Photo of Monica L Mouer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilkesboro, NC
Monica L Mouer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
Life is meant to be enjoyed, not endured. If you lack satisfaction in your life, counseling can help. I have a passion to see individuals live to their full potential with peace of mind, purpose in action and joy for everyday living. With over 15 years experience in counseling, education and pastoral ministry combined, I offer an educated perspective on many life issues. I am a trained in many trauma based and relational/family approaches to wholeness. I have extensive experience in working with teens and their families, couples and women's issues especially trauma, anger, emotional regulation, anxiety & depression.
Life is meant to be enjoyed, not endured. If you lack satisfaction in your life, counseling can help. I have a passion to see individuals live to their full potential with peace of mind, purpose in action and joy for everyday living. With over 15 years experience in counseling, education and pastoral ministry combined, I offer an educated perspective on many life issues. I am a trained in many trauma based and relational/family approaches to wholeness. I have extensive experience in working with teens and their families, couples and women's issues especially trauma, anger, emotional regulation, anxiety & depression.
(704) 869-2018 View (704) 869-2018
Photo of Lauren Britton Counseling, Counselor in Wilkesboro, NC
Lauren Britton Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
Waitlist for new clients
The decision to attend counseling can be a difficult step, and finding the right therapist can feel daunting! I hope the information here will answer some of your questions. My goal as your therapist will be to walk next to you as you identify and move closer to your personal goals. I am passionate about empowering individuals with the skills to manage challenges and move towards an enhanced sense of fulfillment in life. I approach therapy from the belief that you are the ONLY expert on yourself. Together we can help you tap into and trust your internal wisdom.
The decision to attend counseling can be a difficult step, and finding the right therapist can feel daunting! I hope the information here will answer some of your questions. My goal as your therapist will be to walk next to you as you identify and move closer to your personal goals. I am passionate about empowering individuals with the skills to manage challenges and move towards an enhanced sense of fulfillment in life. I approach therapy from the belief that you are the ONLY expert on yourself. Together we can help you tap into and trust your internal wisdom.
(828) 293-4302 View (828) 293-4302
Photo of Lakia Branch-Rollins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilkesboro, NC
Lakia Branch-Rollins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Our lives do NOT get better by chance or happenstance, they get better by CHOICE! Congratulations on making a huge choice towards a more meaningful change in your life. We all come from various backgrounds, experiences, and will all face difficulties at one point in our lives. It's at that point, that we desire more, something different, a shift that will assist us from where we are, to where we desire to be, and I am here to assist you on that journey.
Our lives do NOT get better by chance or happenstance, they get better by CHOICE! Congratulations on making a huge choice towards a more meaningful change in your life. We all come from various backgrounds, experiences, and will all face difficulties at one point in our lives. It's at that point, that we desire more, something different, a shift that will assist us from where we are, to where we desire to be, and I am here to assist you on that journey.
(336) 360-5813 View (336) 360-5813
Photo of Debbie Dixon Barney, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Wilkesboro, NC
Debbie Dixon Barney
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS-A, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arden, NC 28704
Do you ever wake up and wonder, "How did I get here?" or "Why did this have to happen to me?" Maybe you wish your life looked differently but are not sure how to get there. We all have "things" we need to process, but my experience is that we often get “stuck in a rut” with how we approach problems. We need a new perspective or another person to help us process our "stuff” - someone who can ask us questions to help us to see things from a different vantage point or to help us rewrite our stories with hope, purpose, and excitement. My desire is to help people see how the “stuff” in their lives can be used in amazing ways.
Do you ever wake up and wonder, "How did I get here?" or "Why did this have to happen to me?" Maybe you wish your life looked differently but are not sure how to get there. We all have "things" we need to process, but my experience is that we often get “stuck in a rut” with how we approach problems. We need a new perspective or another person to help us process our "stuff” - someone who can ask us questions to help us to see things from a different vantage point or to help us rewrite our stories with hope, purpose, and excitement. My desire is to help people see how the “stuff” in their lives can be used in amazing ways.
(828) 677-2303 View (828) 677-2303

See more therapy options for Wilkesboro

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.