Chronic Pain Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

Photo of Caren M Jackson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Caren M Jackson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS/EdS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
My current areas of interest include coping with life transitions, caregiving stress, coping with chronic pain or disability, improving parental mental health, men's mental health and improving self-worth.
Offering more in-person availability in Winston-Salem, in November 2023, for clients who prefer to meet in an office setting! Telehealth appointments also immediately available. I know that having a good fit between a client and their counselor is the most important aspect in treating and improving mental wellbeing. I look forward to hearing from you. I come from a community mental health setting and have worked with a wide range of clinical conditions. My approach to counseling includes a family systems and community framework, with a focus on understanding and improving one's relationship to self and others.
My current areas of interest include coping with life transitions, caregiving stress, coping with chronic pain or disability, improving parental mental health, men's mental health and improving self-worth.
Offering more in-person availability in Winston-Salem, in November 2023, for clients who prefer to meet in an office setting! Telehealth appointments also immediately available. I know that having a good fit between a client and their counselor is the most important aspect in treating and improving mental wellbeing. I look forward to hearing from you. I come from a community mental health setting and have worked with a wide range of clinical conditions. My approach to counseling includes a family systems and community framework, with a focus on understanding and improving one's relationship to self and others.
(336) 791-8284 View (336) 791-8284
Photo of Deidre Montgomery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, 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 Leah Dixon, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Leah Dixon
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Areas of focus: anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief and loss, self esteem, and trauma.
Being human can be difficult. I hope to provide a safe nonjudgmental space so you can feel heard and seen, a space to be honest and reflect on what’s meaningful, and to recognize the impacts of culture and society on your wellbeing. I encourage others to enter into vulnerability to do deeper work that can create lasting change. My desire is to help my clients find self-compassion to heal the old wounds that can keep us stuck and find peace. Being human can also be beautiful, and I hope to help you discover that beauty in your own life.
Areas of focus: anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief and loss, self esteem, and trauma.
Being human can be difficult. I hope to provide a safe nonjudgmental space so you can feel heard and seen, a space to be honest and reflect on what’s meaningful, and to recognize the impacts of culture and society on your wellbeing. I encourage others to enter into vulnerability to do deeper work that can create lasting change. My desire is to help my clients find self-compassion to heal the old wounds that can keep us stuck and find peace. Being human can also be beautiful, and I hope to help you discover that beauty in your own life.
(336) 502-6072 View (336) 502-6072
Photo of Wellness Counseling PLLC in Winston Salem, NC
Wellness Counseling PLLC
LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27127  (Online Only)
I only work with adults, and my specific area of expertise is in anxiety disorders, working with survivors of abuse, chronic illness, completing HRT/gender confirmation evaluations, and I love working with my LGBTQ+ folks!.
Let’s talk therapy! Sometimes therapy sessions consist of talking about recipes, animals, the book you’re reading, laughing, crying, crying and laughing at the same time, experiencing all the emotions, having a place to vent, coping with trauma, and therapy can feel really really challenging, and I’m here for ALL of it. I strive to help you grow by creating a trusting, transparent, empathetic, safe, and gently confrontational relationship. I view people as autonomous human beings, and SO capable, (even on the days you're not feeling that), because after all, up until now, you have survived your worst days.
I only work with adults, and my specific area of expertise is in anxiety disorders, working with survivors of abuse, chronic illness, completing HRT/gender confirmation evaluations, and I love working with my LGBTQ+ folks!.
Let’s talk therapy! Sometimes therapy sessions consist of talking about recipes, animals, the book you’re reading, laughing, crying, crying and laughing at the same time, experiencing all the emotions, having a place to vent, coping with trauma, and therapy can feel really really challenging, and I’m here for ALL of it. I strive to help you grow by creating a trusting, transparent, empathetic, safe, and gently confrontational relationship. I view people as autonomous human beings, and SO capable, (even on the days you're not feeling that), because after all, up until now, you have survived your worst days.
(844) 258-0947 View (844) 258-0947
Photo of Carol Walsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Carol Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
You may be experiencing anxious worries, feelings of depression, chronic pain, concerns about parenting, stress-eating, conflicts or uncertainty at work or home, or the pain and upheaval of a loss. My commitment is to creating a health-focussed solution to your problems. I provide a calm, compassionate, and thoughtful presence in order to help you achieve a greater sense of peace and acceptance, as well as a greater sense of control over the direction of your life. I welcome phone and email inquiries to answer any questions you may have about my practice and my approach to achieving greater emotional wellness.
You may be experiencing anxious worries, feelings of depression, chronic pain, concerns about parenting, stress-eating, conflicts or uncertainty at work or home, or the pain and upheaval of a loss. My commitment is to creating a health-focussed solution to your problems. I provide a calm, compassionate, and thoughtful presence in order to help you achieve a greater sense of peace and acceptance, as well as a greater sense of control over the direction of your life. I welcome phone and email inquiries to answer any questions you may have about my practice and my approach to achieving greater emotional wellness.
(336) 685-1947 View (336) 685-1947
Photo of Leigh Zick Dongre, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Winston Salem, NC
Leigh Zick Dongre
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
I counsel all people, but I specialize in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, chronic pain, depression disorders, substance use and recovery, life transitions (i.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
(336) 791-0314 View (336) 791-0314
Photo of Valarie Anne Snell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Valarie Anne Snell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
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 View (336) 754-2119
Photo of Gilded Peace Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Gilded Peace Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27109  (Online Only)
Brainspotting and restorative yoga are also offered as additional therapeutic outlets for those living with trauma, dissociation, compulsive behaviors, anxiety, and chronic pain.
Gilded Peace Counseling is BIPOC owned/operated, LGBTQIA+ affirming, a supporter of the healthy at any size community, poly & ethical non-monogamy friendly, sex-positive, and kink-competent. GPC offers counseling for all walks of life and has specialized experience counseling clients with intergenerational trauma, sexual and/or religious trauma, chronic illnesses, and hidden disabilities. We are passionate about members of minority, marginalized, and divergent communities being heard and seen, as intersectionality should only make voices louder.
Brainspotting and restorative yoga are also offered as additional therapeutic outlets for those living with trauma, dissociation, compulsive behaviors, anxiety, and chronic pain.
Gilded Peace Counseling is BIPOC owned/operated, LGBTQIA+ affirming, a supporter of the healthy at any size community, poly & ethical non-monogamy friendly, sex-positive, and kink-competent. GPC offers counseling for all walks of life and has specialized experience counseling clients with intergenerational trauma, sexual and/or religious trauma, chronic illnesses, and hidden disabilities. We are passionate about members of minority, marginalized, and divergent communities being heard and seen, as intersectionality should only make voices louder.
(336) 276-0138 View (336) 276-0138
Photo of Dr. Austin Aibel, Psychologist in Winston Salem, NC
Dr. Austin Aibel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
Hello there! My name is Dr. Austin Aibel. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I specialize in eating disorders and body image issues. I have also done a lot of work with folks struggling with trauma, OCD, chronic illness/complex medical conditions, and identity concerns. I often work with individuals in their teens, twenties, and thirties (but love working with people across the age spectrum). I am passionate about this work and this shows in sessions. I am not a "smile and nod therapist"- Clients have described me as interactive, genuine, and energetic.
Hello there! My name is Dr. Austin Aibel. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I specialize in eating disorders and body image issues. I have also done a lot of work with folks struggling with trauma, OCD, chronic illness/complex medical conditions, and identity concerns. I often work with individuals in their teens, twenties, and thirties (but love working with people across the age spectrum). I am passionate about this work and this shows in sessions. I am not a "smile and nod therapist"- Clients have described me as interactive, genuine, and energetic.
(312) 626-5114 View (312) 626-5114
Photo of Tia Hunter, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Winston Salem, NC
Tia Hunter
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101  (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 Karen Arthur, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Karen Arthur
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I believe that healing that takes place with another person present is sacred. I enjoy working with clients at any stage of the healing process, from just starting their journey to feeling confident in their abilities. We will create a safe, supportive environment for you to explore yourself and become the best possible you through listening, education, and creative counseling techniques that are NOT Freud's psychotherapy. I love it when clients bring in questions, ask for homework, and commit to the process of counseling. At the same time, I have worked successfully with numerous clients who weren't so sure about going on their journey yet. If motivation is lacking, I like to provide a sounding board for clients who want to be inspired and empowered to decide what's right for them. I regularly ask my clients to get their hands dirty so that in the future, you will have the tools and coping skills you need to embrace your life. Much of counseling is a "choose your own ending" adventure novel, and when you are up for those twists, I'll be right beside you so you do not have to walk through the dark alone.
I believe that healing that takes place with another person present is sacred. I enjoy working with clients at any stage of the healing process, from just starting their journey to feeling confident in their abilities. We will create a safe, supportive environment for you to explore yourself and become the best possible you through listening, education, and creative counseling techniques that are NOT Freud's psychotherapy. I love it when clients bring in questions, ask for homework, and commit to the process of counseling. At the same time, I have worked successfully with numerous clients who weren't so sure about going on their journey yet. If motivation is lacking, I like to provide a sounding board for clients who want to be inspired and empowered to decide what's right for them. I regularly ask my clients to get their hands dirty so that in the future, you will have the tools and coping skills you need to embrace your life. Much of counseling is a "choose your own ending" adventure novel, and when you are up for those twists, I'll be right beside you so you do not have to walk through the dark alone.
(336) 203-8341 View (336) 203-8341
Photo of Brittney Carter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Brittney Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Hi, my name is Brittney Carter, LCMHC, LCAS. I earned my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Appalachian State University. I am a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I also have a specialty in Expressive Art Therapy and school counseling. My work experience has been in both the hospital and community mental health settings.
Hi, my name is Brittney Carter, LCMHC, LCAS. I earned my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Appalachian State University. I am a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I also have a specialty in Expressive Art Therapy and school counseling. My work experience has been in both the hospital and community mental health settings.
(336) 815-5891 View (336) 815-5891
Photo of Tanya Gunter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Tanya Gunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Waitlist for new clients
The therapeutic process is an opportunity to to address problematic issues in a safe, nurturing environment that will encourage growth toward healing, self-awareness, coping and wellness. I specialize in counseling women, men and adolescents who strive to change unhealthy patterns and learn new ways of becoming successful, happy and peaceful. If you find yourself thinking, "Life shouldn't be this hard," I can help you examine the disconnect you feel and and turn it into knowledge that works for you. Choices rather than limitations; power over powerlessness.
The therapeutic process is an opportunity to to address problematic issues in a safe, nurturing environment that will encourage growth toward healing, self-awareness, coping and wellness. I specialize in counseling women, men and adolescents who strive to change unhealthy patterns and learn new ways of becoming successful, happy and peaceful. If you find yourself thinking, "Life shouldn't be this hard," I can help you examine the disconnect you feel and and turn it into knowledge that works for you. Choices rather than limitations; power over powerlessness.
(336) 949-6149 View (336) 949-6149
Photo of Rebecca Rankin, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Rebecca Rankin
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
As Brené Brown said, "Loving ourselves through the process of owning our story is the bravest thing we will ever do." Beauty, self-awareness, and growth often come from our willingness to be vulnerable and share our stories even when they can be quite difficult to tell. It is in these moments that it would be my honor to listen to your story with the hope that it enables you to experience empathy, acceptance, and understanding. To facilitate this, I use a person-centered approach combined with other techniques that can help you focus on emotional wellness and develop solutions in areas of concern to you.
As Brené Brown said, "Loving ourselves through the process of owning our story is the bravest thing we will ever do." Beauty, self-awareness, and growth often come from our willingness to be vulnerable and share our stories even when they can be quite difficult to tell. It is in these moments that it would be my honor to listen to your story with the hope that it enables you to experience empathy, acceptance, and understanding. To facilitate this, I use a person-centered approach combined with other techniques that can help you focus on emotional wellness and develop solutions in areas of concern to you.
(336) 438-8421 View (336) 438-8421
Photo of Julie M Collins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Julie M Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults. I believe clients have their own solutions and when given the time and space they will be able to access these strengths. I have the most experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, school challenges and relationship issues with clients and their families. Please call me so we can discuss treatment options and if I would be a good fit for you. I look forward to talking with you!
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults. I believe clients have their own solutions and when given the time and space they will be able to access these strengths. I have the most experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, school challenges and relationship issues with clients and their families. Please call me so we can discuss treatment options and if I would be a good fit for you. I look forward to talking with you!
(828) 354-0053 View (828) 354-0053
Photo of Adrienne Reich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Adrienne Reich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I am a licensed professional counselor as well as a licensed clinical addictions specialist. I have over twenty years of counseling experience conducting individual, family, and couples counseling. I strive to create an atmosphere that feels safe for people to talk openly about their stories and emotions and help people determine what is best for them to help their current situation.
I am a licensed professional counselor as well as a licensed clinical addictions specialist. I have over twenty years of counseling experience conducting individual, family, and couples counseling. I strive to create an atmosphere that feels safe for people to talk openly about their stories and emotions and help people determine what is best for them to help their current situation.
(336) 939-0712 View (336) 939-0712
Photo of Megan Ragone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Megan Ragone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Take the time to invest in yourself through therapy. For well over a decade, I have been honored to work with people from all walks of life. I have found that growth comes when we slow down and invest time in exploring our own beliefs, relationships, and behaviors. Sometimes we need a guide to help make sense of that process: a therapist. For over a decade I have honed my skills in working with grief, trauma, life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, disordered eating, obesity, caregiver stress, women's issues, and more. While I am trained and certified in various modalities, treatment is tailored to each patient's goals
Take the time to invest in yourself through therapy. For well over a decade, I have been honored to work with people from all walks of life. I have found that growth comes when we slow down and invest time in exploring our own beliefs, relationships, and behaviors. Sometimes we need a guide to help make sense of that process: a therapist. For over a decade I have honed my skills in working with grief, trauma, life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, disordered eating, obesity, caregiver stress, women's issues, and more. While I am trained and certified in various modalities, treatment is tailored to each patient's goals
(336) 298-8335 View (336) 298-8335
Photo of Sarah Carver, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Sarah Carver
Counselor, MDiv, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Therapy and counseling move at the speed of trust. I believe this phrase captures the core of the therapeutic relationship: meeting clients where they are and moving at their pace. I will listen non-judgmentally and compassionately to what is said and not said by my clients. I provide a safe and welcoming space that fosters trust, where clients feel accepted, heard, understood, and respected. In this collaborative and supportive environment, we can work together to achieve your goals while processing emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and experiences.
Therapy and counseling move at the speed of trust. I believe this phrase captures the core of the therapeutic relationship: meeting clients where they are and moving at their pace. I will listen non-judgmentally and compassionately to what is said and not said by my clients. I provide a safe and welcoming space that fosters trust, where clients feel accepted, heard, understood, and respected. In this collaborative and supportive environment, we can work together to achieve your goals while processing emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and experiences.
(336) 203-9421 View (336) 203-9421
Photo of House Call Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
House Call Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Life is complicated, but finding support for your mental health doesn't have to be. At House Call Counseling, we bring the haven of therapy directly to you, whether it's over the phone or in your own home. Since 2018, we've been the Triad's trusted partner in mental well-being, offering our unique blend of home-based and telehealth therapy. Our compassionate therapists are just a click away, ready to guide you through life's challenges with personalized care.
Life is complicated, but finding support for your mental health doesn't have to be. At House Call Counseling, we bring the haven of therapy directly to you, whether it's over the phone or in your own home. Since 2018, we've been the Triad's trusted partner in mental well-being, offering our unique blend of home-based and telehealth therapy. Our compassionate therapists are just a click away, ready to guide you through life's challenges with personalized care.
(336) 221-3912 View (336) 221-3912
Photo of Forsyth Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Forsyth Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
(336) 750-6021 View (336) 750-6021

See more therapy options for Winston Salem

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.