Photo of Laureen Belle Thomas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laureen Belle Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsboro, NC 27228
Welcome. Are you experiencing difficulties with relationships, children, spirituality, sex, or work? It often happens that many of us need a little help now and then. In my years of practice, I've seen how depression and anxiety can affect people's lives and can cause a great deal of guilt and frustration. Life is a journey, both joyous and painful. I believe that no one purposely tries to mess up their life, however, once caught up in our own situations we often cannot see the "forest for the trees", making it difficult to see things any differently during stressfull times.
Welcome. Are you experiencing difficulties with relationships, children, spirituality, sex, or work? It often happens that many of us need a little help now and then. In my years of practice, I've seen how depression and anxiety can affect people's lives and can cause a great deal of guilt and frustration. Life is a journey, both joyous and painful. I believe that no one purposely tries to mess up their life, however, once caught up in our own situations we often cannot see the "forest for the trees", making it difficult to see things any differently during stressfull times.
(919) 794-8245 View (919) 794-8245

Online Therapists

Photo of Bridget Pemberton-Smith, MA, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Bridget Pemberton-Smith
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510
As an expressive arts therapist, I promote the healing power of the arts and am dedicated to helping my clients discover their strengths and healing potential. I love being able to walk with people on their healing journies, guiding them through transitions and periods of growth. I have worked with a variety of people including children with physical illness, at-risk adolescents, adults with mental illness, seniors both with and without dementia, refugees and immigrants and as a supervisor for art therapists seeking art therapy registration. I have worked in schools, hospitals, retirement centers and mental health agencies.
As an expressive arts therapist, I promote the healing power of the arts and am dedicated to helping my clients discover their strengths and healing potential. I love being able to walk with people on their healing journies, guiding them through transitions and periods of growth. I have worked with a variety of people including children with physical illness, at-risk adolescents, adults with mental illness, seniors both with and without dementia, refugees and immigrants and as a supervisor for art therapists seeking art therapy registration. I have worked in schools, hospitals, retirement centers and mental health agencies.
(919) 925-4191 View (919) 925-4191
Photo of Madalina Ochenatu, MS, CRC, LCMHCA, Counselor
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 undefined - Chronic Health Counseling, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chronic Health Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025
We are so glad you are here, bravely taking this important first step. We treat individuals living with chronic illness & also specialize in treating a variety of other mental health issues unrelated to chronic illness. Living with either a chronic health condition or mental health concerns can take a toll on our emotional well-being making it even more difficult to navigate our lives. Whether you have been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition or you are struggling with other mental health concerns, our therapists can help you find ways to express difficult emotions and work toward finding a sense of peace and joy!
We are so glad you are here, bravely taking this important first step. We treat individuals living with chronic illness & also specialize in treating a variety of other mental health issues unrelated to chronic illness. Living with either a chronic health condition or mental health concerns can take a toll on our emotional well-being making it even more difficult to navigate our lives. Whether you have been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition or you are struggling with other mental health concerns, our therapists can help you find ways to express difficult emotions and work toward finding a sense of peace and joy!
(704) 842-9915 View (704) 842-9915
Photo of Julie Hardman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Hardman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
I spent years working with clients in Wake and Durham counties and still do! Are you struggling day in day out and want to see something change? I'd love to get to know you and collaborate on how you might cultivate a more fulfilling, less distressing life. I counsel women ages 21+ living with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain and illness; relationship issues, work stressors, major life transitions, grief and loss, creative block, learning self advocacy. I am an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. You can learn to flourish despite issues you may now see as impediments. Let me walk with you on this journey. Let's find your joy!
I spent years working with clients in Wake and Durham counties and still do! Are you struggling day in day out and want to see something change? I'd love to get to know you and collaborate on how you might cultivate a more fulfilling, less distressing life. I counsel women ages 21+ living with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain and illness; relationship issues, work stressors, major life transitions, grief and loss, creative block, learning self advocacy. I am an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. You can learn to flourish despite issues you may now see as impediments. Let me walk with you on this journey. Let's find your joy!
(336) 203-7986 View (336) 203-7986
Photo of Page J. Littlewood, MBA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Page J. Littlewood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Medical Family Therapy includes helping clients cope with a chronic illness or disability.
I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist. My work supports individuals, couples, families and small businesses seeking to unlock their ability to access the best they have to offer. We all need to experience a secure bond with another to provide a safe haven for comfort and support and a secure base to go out into the world. Together, we can find the secure bond, fun, love, and caring masked by conflicts, connect you with the resources we are all born with that build self esteem, strengthen relationships, bring into awareness and transform old and familiar patterns of communication that are defensive rather than connecting.
Medical Family Therapy includes helping clients cope with a chronic illness or disability.
I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist. My work supports individuals, couples, families and small businesses seeking to unlock their ability to access the best they have to offer. We all need to experience a secure bond with another to provide a safe haven for comfort and support and a secure base to go out into the world. Together, we can find the secure bond, fun, love, and caring masked by conflicts, connect you with the resources we are all born with that build self esteem, strengthen relationships, bring into awareness and transform old and familiar patterns of communication that are defensive rather than connecting.
(919) 948-3457 View (919) 948-3457
Photo of Dr. Aqsa Salman, LCMHC, DBH
Dr. Aqsa Salman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, DBH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
You are not your pain or your struggles! Dr. Salman provides “whole person care” through Motivational interviewing techniques, Acceptance & Commitment therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Mindfulness and Person-centered care. Dr. Salman provides Teletherapy in NC via a HIPPA compliant platform. Dr. Salman believes and specializes in providing services to individuals struggling with physical and emotional pain. Clients often served by Dr. Salman includes trauma survivors, those with anxiety/depression, those with GI issues, people living with chronic illness/pain, individuals struggling with disordered body image/eating patterns.
You are not your pain or your struggles! Dr. Salman provides “whole person care” through Motivational interviewing techniques, Acceptance & Commitment therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Mindfulness and Person-centered care. Dr. Salman provides Teletherapy in NC via a HIPPA compliant platform. Dr. Salman believes and specializes in providing services to individuals struggling with physical and emotional pain. Clients often served by Dr. Salman includes trauma survivors, those with anxiety/depression, those with GI issues, people living with chronic illness/pain, individuals struggling with disordered body image/eating patterns.
(984) 985-2729 View (984) 985-2729
Photo of Robin Betsy Morton, MEd, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Betsy Morton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540  (Online Only)
I address issues including death of a loved one, living with /supporting someone who is living with terminal illness.
Welcome! Being human in this world can be tough. My goal as a therapist is to sit with my clients in these difficult times. I provide my clients a relaxed, comfortable, and trusting environment where they can feel heard, seen, and valued. I see it as a great privilege to partner with my clients as they share and explore their stories and experiences. Together, we can navigate what can often feel like an overwhelming world.
I address issues including death of a loved one, living with /supporting someone who is living with terminal illness.
Welcome! Being human in this world can be tough. My goal as a therapist is to sit with my clients in these difficult times. I provide my clients a relaxed, comfortable, and trusting environment where they can feel heard, seen, and valued. I see it as a great privilege to partner with my clients as they share and explore their stories and experiences. Together, we can navigate what can often feel like an overwhelming world.
(984) 213-4939 View (984) 213-4939
Photo of undefined - New Direction Wellness, PLLC, DC, MAEd, NCC, LCMHCA, Counselor
New Direction Wellness, PLLC
Counselor, DC, MAEd, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Rose Hill, NC 28458  (Online Only)
After a decade of helping individuals with back & joint pain as a chiropractor, I noticed that my patients who’s pain kept returning had one thing in common.
Accepting Clients...Is stress, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, phobias and past trauma stopping you from enjoying life? Don't know how to take your power back? Well, let me let you in on a little secret. All problems come from within and I help you not only go within and find the answer, but also make peace with the answer so you can finally live the life you are meant to live.....a life full of happiness, joy, tranquility, success, and prosperity instead of living with feelings of defeat, desperation, disappointment, and hopelessness.
After a decade of helping individuals with back & joint pain as a chiropractor, I noticed that my patients who’s pain kept returning had one thing in common.
Accepting Clients...Is stress, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, phobias and past trauma stopping you from enjoying life? Don't know how to take your power back? Well, let me let you in on a little secret. All problems come from within and I help you not only go within and find the answer, but also make peace with the answer so you can finally live the life you are meant to live.....a life full of happiness, joy, tranquility, success, and prosperity instead of living with feelings of defeat, desperation, disappointment, and hopelessness.
(910) 490-4067 View (910) 490-4067
Photo of Shelly Luttman Phelps, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelly Luttman Phelps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
Have you faced struggles with depression and anxiety possibly due to illness, family conflict, loss, work or relationship issues? Has it been difficult for you to cope with and overcome these emotions on your own? If so, you’re not alone. We all need support from time to time, yet many of us may not feel comfortable asking for help or sharing intimate details with friends or family. Within my practice, you will find a safe & nonjudgmental environment where we can explore these obstacles together, help you heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in life.
Have you faced struggles with depression and anxiety possibly due to illness, family conflict, loss, work or relationship issues? Has it been difficult for you to cope with and overcome these emotions on your own? If so, you’re not alone. We all need support from time to time, yet many of us may not feel comfortable asking for help or sharing intimate details with friends or family. Within my practice, you will find a safe & nonjudgmental environment where we can explore these obstacles together, help you heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in life.
(704) 912-0444 View (704) 912-0444
Photo of Valarie Anne Snell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Jessica Beu, LCSW, C-IAYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Beu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587  (Online Only)
I help clients identify and reach their personal goals utilizing an integrative approach that includes focusing on strengths, trauma informed care, and Polyvagal Theory. Clients dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, chronic pain and illness can expect a compassionate and collaborative environment to work on overcoming these challenges. Those who are looking to increase self-efficacy, develop tools for self regulation, and motivated to make change will be supported and empowered to access their innate healing capabilities.
I help clients identify and reach their personal goals utilizing an integrative approach that includes focusing on strengths, trauma informed care, and Polyvagal Theory. Clients dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, chronic pain and illness can expect a compassionate and collaborative environment to work on overcoming these challenges. Those who are looking to increase self-efficacy, develop tools for self regulation, and motivated to make change will be supported and empowered to access their innate healing capabilities.
(412) 214-8951 View (412) 214-8951
Photo of Jairo Orellana, LCSW, LISW CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jairo Orellana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27602  (Online Only)
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to let mental health take a back seat. Yet, addressing challenging emotions like sadness, loneliness, anxiety, and self-defeating behaviors is crucial for a fulfilling life. Finding the right therapist, one who sees you as more than just another client, can make all the difference. As a licensed clinical therapist with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in helping working adults navigate these complex feelings. My unique perspective as an MBA candidate allows me to blend emotional support with practical, work-related guidance, providing a comprehensive approach to your well-being.
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to let mental health take a back seat. Yet, addressing challenging emotions like sadness, loneliness, anxiety, and self-defeating behaviors is crucial for a fulfilling life. Finding the right therapist, one who sees you as more than just another client, can make all the difference. As a licensed clinical therapist with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in helping working adults navigate these complex feelings. My unique perspective as an MBA candidate allows me to blend emotional support with practical, work-related guidance, providing a comprehensive approach to your well-being.
(252) 765-4146 View (252) 765-4146
Photo of Ally Kane, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ally Kane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carrboro, NC 27510  (Online Only)
Finding the right therapist is an important first step in working toward your personal goals. To help determine if I am the right fit for a client, I offer a free 15-minute initial consultation. In my practice, I create an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. Every person is different and I offer an individualized treatment approach that best addresses each person's unique needs and overall goals. I work with young adults, adults and older adults, and I specialize in helping individuals who are dealing with stress, relationship issues, difficult life transitions, anger, anxiety, depression and chronic health issues.
Finding the right therapist is an important first step in working toward your personal goals. To help determine if I am the right fit for a client, I offer a free 15-minute initial consultation. In my practice, I create an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. Every person is different and I offer an individualized treatment approach that best addresses each person's unique needs and overall goals. I work with young adults, adults and older adults, and I specialize in helping individuals who are dealing with stress, relationship issues, difficult life transitions, anger, anxiety, depression and chronic health issues.
(919) 585-4297 View (919) 585-4297
Photo of Neli Goire, LCSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Neli Goire
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach focuses on the power of personal transformation. As a therapist, I believe in the innate resilience of each individual and their ability to overcome life's challenges. My specialization covers a wide range of areas, from managing anxiety and depression to providing support during times of change and growth. My goal is to provide you with the tools and support necessary for you to regain control of your life and achieve greater satisfaction and well-being. Your well-being is my priority, and I am committed to helping you every step of the way towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
My therapeutic approach focuses on the power of personal transformation. As a therapist, I believe in the innate resilience of each individual and their ability to overcome life's challenges. My specialization covers a wide range of areas, from managing anxiety and depression to providing support during times of change and growth. My goal is to provide you with the tools and support necessary for you to regain control of your life and achieve greater satisfaction and well-being. Your well-being is my priority, and I am committed to helping you every step of the way towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(919) 873-3494 View (919) 873-3494
Photo of Jeannine Bodner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeannine Bodner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036
I respect the courage that it takes to seek help when life's challenges become overwhelming. It is often a very painful place that can be difficult to share with another person. I am very sensitive to the fact that the first step can be the most difficult. I use a collaborative, compassionate approach with my clients. I rely on my knowledge and experience coupled with theoretical approaches to customize a plan for the individual situation. The goal is to work toward holistic balance.
I respect the courage that it takes to seek help when life's challenges become overwhelming. It is often a very painful place that can be difficult to share with another person. I am very sensitive to the fact that the first step can be the most difficult. I use a collaborative, compassionate approach with my clients. I rely on my knowledge and experience coupled with theoretical approaches to customize a plan for the individual situation. The goal is to work toward holistic balance.
(704) 851-8218 View (704) 851-8218
Photo of Barb Gau, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barb Gau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705  (Online Only)
As a therapist and life coach, my goal is to help you feel both empowered and at peace with yourself and your life and to guide you on a positive path to growth and well-being. Through our work together, I seek to help you uncover your true self, find your voice, & align your values & life choices. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Simultaneously I will introduce you to tools and strategies that may help you better navigate the stress and anxiety of life and hopefully enable you to experience greater peace, joy, and well being. 
As a therapist and life coach, my goal is to help you feel both empowered and at peace with yourself and your life and to guide you on a positive path to growth and well-being. Through our work together, I seek to help you uncover your true self, find your voice, & align your values & life choices. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Simultaneously I will introduce you to tools and strategies that may help you better navigate the stress and anxiety of life and hopefully enable you to experience greater peace, joy, and well being. 
(919) 883-9133 View (919) 883-9133
Photo of undefined - Sandra Schoonover, PhD, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Sandra Schoonover, PhD
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy offers a place and relationship in which to be heard, to be understood and to experience growth and change. My practice offers opportunities to a wide variety of people for insight and understanding that makes a difference in how life is lived. Therapy begins with the development of a meaningful relationship grounded in compassion, patience and appreciation for your needs and personal experiences.I work with individuals seeking general insight and self-discovery to those suffering from chronic or debilitating issues. My practice involves work with individuals, couples and families.
Therapy offers a place and relationship in which to be heard, to be understood and to experience growth and change. My practice offers opportunities to a wide variety of people for insight and understanding that makes a difference in how life is lived. Therapy begins with the development of a meaningful relationship grounded in compassion, patience and appreciation for your needs and personal experiences.I work with individuals seeking general insight and self-discovery to those suffering from chronic or debilitating issues. My practice involves work with individuals, couples and families.
(704) 766-8675 View (704) 766-8675
Photo of undefined - Carolina Counseling Services - Fuquay-Varina, NC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolina Counseling Services - Fuquay-Varina, NC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
Finding the right therapist for you can be difficult, but it doesn't have to be. CCS is proud to have two locations in Fuquay-Varina as well as a number of knowledgeable contracted therapists that can help you with what may be holding you back. Our independently contracted therapists enjoy working with couples, adults, teens and children.
Finding the right therapist for you can be difficult, but it doesn't have to be. CCS is proud to have two locations in Fuquay-Varina as well as a number of knowledgeable contracted therapists that can help you with what may be holding you back. Our independently contracted therapists enjoy working with couples, adults, teens and children.
(919) 887-1100 View (919) 887-1100
Photo of Beth Ann Greene, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Ann Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Reaching out to seek therapy says something positive about you! It reflects that you recognize the need to ask for help, which is always the first step and sometimes, the hardest step. It also means you are coming into therapy with an open mindset and are willing to do the work necessary to achieve your goals. I am passionate about developing a healthy, trusting relationship with my clients, so we can begin to work on whatever issues you are facing. I specialize in treating issues related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-esteem, life transitions, caregiving, stress management and women's issues.
Reaching out to seek therapy says something positive about you! It reflects that you recognize the need to ask for help, which is always the first step and sometimes, the hardest step. It also means you are coming into therapy with an open mindset and are willing to do the work necessary to achieve your goals. I am passionate about developing a healthy, trusting relationship with my clients, so we can begin to work on whatever issues you are facing. I specialize in treating issues related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-esteem, life transitions, caregiving, stress management and women's issues.
(919) 364-5060 View (919) 364-5060

See more therapy options for Chatham County

Chronic Pain Therapists

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.