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Online Therapists

Photo of Bridget Pemberton-Smith, Art Therapist in Sampson County, NC
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 Dr. Ralph Fox II, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sampson County, NC
Dr. Ralph Fox II
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
(910) 216-4872 View (910) 216-4872
Photo of Michael Gisser, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sampson County, NC
Michael Gisser
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
I feel that my experience allows me to connect and empathize with individuals and couples who might be dealing with the stress of marriage, military life and chronic illness, including depression and anxiety.
I am a former US Army chaplain and ordained rabbi trained in Marriage and Family Therapy with additional training in trauma recovery, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSD). My experience embodies an experiential integrative approach and I can individualize therapy to meet client goals. I work with individuals, couples, military personnel, veterans, and their families, and the LGBTQIA community. I am knowledgeable of world religions and diverse cultural backgrounds. I am currently accepting new clients in Pittsboro. To schedule an appointment vist our website - migcounseling.com
I feel that my experience allows me to connect and empathize with individuals and couples who might be dealing with the stress of marriage, military life and chronic illness, including depression and anxiety.
I am a former US Army chaplain and ordained rabbi trained in Marriage and Family Therapy with additional training in trauma recovery, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSD). My experience embodies an experiential integrative approach and I can individualize therapy to meet client goals. I work with individuals, couples, military personnel, veterans, and their families, and the LGBTQIA community. I am knowledgeable of world religions and diverse cultural backgrounds. I am currently accepting new clients in Pittsboro. To schedule an appointment vist our website - migcounseling.com
(984) 237-3579 View (984) 237-3579
Carol C Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Hi. My name is Carol Bennett, and I am a clinically licensed social worker in Wilmington, NC. I work with adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss issues, communication effectiveness, chronic pain and illnesses, and end of life decisions and questions. The goal is to work together to find acceptable solutions to whatever the distress is, so that you, as the client, find effective skills to cope with the presenting problem, and enable you to have a more positive outlook to life. Typical issues may include anxiety over current life dilemmas, depression and grief regarding losses and major life changes, etc.
Hi. My name is Carol Bennett, and I am a clinically licensed social worker in Wilmington, NC. I work with adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss issues, communication effectiveness, chronic pain and illnesses, and end of life decisions and questions. The goal is to work together to find acceptable solutions to whatever the distress is, so that you, as the client, find effective skills to cope with the presenting problem, and enable you to have a more positive outlook to life. Typical issues may include anxiety over current life dilemmas, depression and grief regarding losses and major life changes, etc.
(910) 708-9224 View (910) 708-9224
Photo of Char Boyette, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Sampson County, NC
Char Boyette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, EMDRIA, CCS, MDiv, JD
Verified Verified
Winterville, NC 28590
I am a person on the journey of wellness myself so I can empathize with the pain of feeling isolated and misunderstood, stuck in old patterns and unable to break unhelpful cycles of abuse, trauma, poverty, addictions, and multiple mental health challenges.
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
I am a person on the journey of wellness myself so I can empathize with the pain of feeling isolated and misunderstood, stuck in old patterns and unable to break unhelpful cycles of abuse, trauma, poverty, addictions, and multiple mental health challenges.
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
(910) 634-6171 View (910) 634-6171
Photo of Pam Koretsky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sampson County, NC
Pam Koretsky, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I have an all telehealth practice for adults who live in Florida and North Carolina using a HIPAA compliant video platform. In this stressful environment we live in, learning to be our own best friend can lead us down a happier path. Through Cognitive Behavioral techniques we can understand the connection between our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, life transitions chronic pain and illness, depression, caregiver issues, low self-esteem and grief. These are only some of the issues. By using solution focused therapy, clients can begin to feel better in a shorter time frame.
I have an all telehealth practice for adults who live in Florida and North Carolina using a HIPAA compliant video platform. In this stressful environment we live in, learning to be our own best friend can lead us down a happier path. Through Cognitive Behavioral techniques we can understand the connection between our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, life transitions chronic pain and illness, depression, caregiver issues, low self-esteem and grief. These are only some of the issues. By using solution focused therapy, clients can begin to feel better in a shorter time frame.
(919) 605-3544 View (919) 605-3544
Photo of James A Barbour, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sampson County, NC
James A Barbour
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610  (Online Only)
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
(252) 585-5186 View (252) 585-5186
Photo of Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC , Counselor in Sampson County, NC
Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LCMHCS , LCAS, CCS, LPC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
(252) 336-9687 View (252) 336-9687
Photo of Jenny Smith Person, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sampson County, NC
Jenny Smith Person
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
I am strengths-based and I utilize different therapy techniques, including EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational interviewing, and CBT for Chronic Pain.
I strive to provide a warm and caring environment for clients to feel open to explore challenges in their life. I appreciate working with clients who are tired of being “stuck” and want to address trauma and/or stressful life events from their past that are standing in the way of them achieving their dreams.
I am strengths-based and I utilize different therapy techniques, including EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational interviewing, and CBT for Chronic Pain.
I strive to provide a warm and caring environment for clients to feel open to explore challenges in their life. I appreciate working with clients who are tired of being “stuck” and want to address trauma and/or stressful life events from their past that are standing in the way of them achieving their dreams.
(919) 891-1235 View (919) 891-1235
Photo of Tita Johnson, Counselor in Sampson County, NC
Tita Johnson
Counselor, LCMHC, LPC/S, MAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27804  (Online Only)
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
In life, we all encounter storms and I believe they can be opportunity for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. My name is Tita Johnson, and I am here to extend my hand, offering a safe space for your healing journey. Your needs are valid, your pain acknowledged, and your goals respected. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them.
(843) 428-6596 View (843) 428-6596
Photo of Ann Marie Simmonds, Psychological Associate in Sampson County, NC
Ann Marie Simmonds
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Ann Simmonds, MA, LPA, LCAS, CCS: I am dedicated to helping individuals work through personal and relational issues so that they may cope effectively and realize a more fulfilling life. I specialize in helping individuals work through depression, anxiety, trauma and grief, relational issues, and chronic pain in order to realize their full potential. I hold a master’s degree in Psychology and Substance Use Treatment from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
Ann Simmonds, MA, LPA, LCAS, CCS: I am dedicated to helping individuals work through personal and relational issues so that they may cope effectively and realize a more fulfilling life. I specialize in helping individuals work through depression, anxiety, trauma and grief, relational issues, and chronic pain in order to realize their full potential. I hold a master’s degree in Psychology and Substance Use Treatment from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
(910) 550-2992 View (910) 550-2992
Photo of Anne Mauldin, Psychologist in Sampson County, NC
Anne Mauldin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
(252) 455-9998 View (252) 455-9998
Photo of New Way Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sampson County, NC
New Way Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knightdale, NC 27545
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Often times life can be challenging and many of us are not prepared to deal with those issues and find ourselves in an unfamiliar place. As a therapist, I am dedicated to providing individualized care to meet your needs. I've worked with children and adults in the mental health field for over 16 years and individuals with addiction for over 8 years. I've treated individuals with various mental health and substance use disorders. My experience enables me to offer effective, individualized outpatient psychological care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges and addiction.
Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Often times life can be challenging and many of us are not prepared to deal with those issues and find ourselves in an unfamiliar place. As a therapist, I am dedicated to providing individualized care to meet your needs. I've worked with children and adults in the mental health field for over 16 years and individuals with addiction for over 8 years. I've treated individuals with various mental health and substance use disorders. My experience enables me to offer effective, individualized outpatient psychological care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges and addiction.
(919) 289-8267 View (919) 289-8267
Photo of Dr. Brad Rappaport, Psychologist in Sampson County, NC
Dr. Brad Rappaport
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Clients say that I have a calm and non-judgmental manner that demonstrates great respect for their difficulties and pain.
Are you feeling anxious? Overwhelmed? Stuck? Have you been feeling depressed? Irritable? Unsure of how to feel better or move forward? Are you turning to coping skills that may work in the short-run but offer no long-term potential to help you develop confidence and resilience? If you are struggling with these issues, our work together can help you cultivate a more meaningful life when it comes to love, work, and play. Our work together will focus on developing the tools and the practical "know-how" so that you can meet the challenges of life with calmness and confidence and sustain this growth.
Clients say that I have a calm and non-judgmental manner that demonstrates great respect for their difficulties and pain.
Are you feeling anxious? Overwhelmed? Stuck? Have you been feeling depressed? Irritable? Unsure of how to feel better or move forward? Are you turning to coping skills that may work in the short-run but offer no long-term potential to help you develop confidence and resilience? If you are struggling with these issues, our work together can help you cultivate a more meaningful life when it comes to love, work, and play. Our work together will focus on developing the tools and the practical "know-how" so that you can meet the challenges of life with calmness and confidence and sustain this growth.
(984) 207-5328 View (984) 207-5328
Photo of Amy Trousdale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sampson County, NC
Amy Trousdale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330
Let’s sit down together and start changing your narrative to reflect the best version of you. Navigating through life can be stressful and difficult however you do not have to walk this path alone. Through identifying negative thought patterns or learning how old behavior patterns have not always served you well, I am confident we can get you on a path to a brighter future.
Let’s sit down together and start changing your narrative to reflect the best version of you. Navigating through life can be stressful and difficult however you do not have to walk this path alone. Through identifying negative thought patterns or learning how old behavior patterns have not always served you well, I am confident we can get you on a path to a brighter future.
(919) 759-5291 View (919) 759-5291
Photo of Dr. Liz E. Slonena, Psychologist in Sampson County, NC
Dr. Liz E. Slonena
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP, MSCP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516  (Online Only)
Exhausted by your loud inner critic? Overwhelmed by your neverending to-do list? Despite looking like you have your sh!t together, internally you may feel like a scattered fraud cosplaying as a human. Trying to be the perfect friend, perfect professional, or perfect partner all at once is exhausting. Maybe there's a deeper wound that hasn't healed yet. Perhaps you dream of feeling fulfilled, calm, & confident. To say "no" and actually mean it. To stop playing small & launch that creative idea. If you want to stress less & live authentically without fear or guilt, I’d love to help you step into your power.
Exhausted by your loud inner critic? Overwhelmed by your neverending to-do list? Despite looking like you have your sh!t together, internally you may feel like a scattered fraud cosplaying as a human. Trying to be the perfect friend, perfect professional, or perfect partner all at once is exhausting. Maybe there's a deeper wound that hasn't healed yet. Perhaps you dream of feeling fulfilled, calm, & confident. To say "no" and actually mean it. To stop playing small & launch that creative idea. If you want to stress less & live authentically without fear or guilt, I’d love to help you step into your power.
View
Photo of Willow Creek Counseling Associates, Counselor in Sampson County, NC
Willow Creek Counseling Associates
Counselor, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
We specialize in providing counseling for children and teens grappling with issues like anxiety, depression, or behavioral challenges. We offer a warm and inviting space where your child can feel understood, valued, and supported. Our goal is to empower children and teens to navigate life's hurdles with confidence and resilience. Through personalized therapy tailored to their unique needs, we aim to help them uncover their inner strengths, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build a positive outlook on life. We also provide additional counseling for adults and marital counseling.
We specialize in providing counseling for children and teens grappling with issues like anxiety, depression, or behavioral challenges. We offer a warm and inviting space where your child can feel understood, valued, and supported. Our goal is to empower children and teens to navigate life's hurdles with confidence and resilience. Through personalized therapy tailored to their unique needs, we aim to help them uncover their inner strengths, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build a positive outlook on life. We also provide additional counseling for adults and marital counseling.
(919) 694-4229 View (919) 694-4229
Photo of Shelagh Patricia Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sampson County, NC
Shelagh Patricia Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
Supporting individuals in their personal evolution, assisting them in developing healthier coping mechanisms, and enhancing self-awareness and self- acceptance is my calling. I enjoy collaborating with anyone who is committed to personal growth and open communication; though as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I particularly enjoy working with others in the queer community. I have 12 years of experience providing support to individuals and families facing a broad range of challenges including depression, anxiety, medical issues, end-of-life care/hospice, recovery from abusive situations, trauma, and significant life changes.
Supporting individuals in their personal evolution, assisting them in developing healthier coping mechanisms, and enhancing self-awareness and self- acceptance is my calling. I enjoy collaborating with anyone who is committed to personal growth and open communication; though as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I particularly enjoy working with others in the queer community. I have 12 years of experience providing support to individuals and families facing a broad range of challenges including depression, anxiety, medical issues, end-of-life care/hospice, recovery from abusive situations, trauma, and significant life changes.
(252) 424-6454 View (252) 424-6454
Photo of As One Wellness PLLC Raleigh-Durham-Charlotte , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sampson County, NC
As One Wellness PLLC Raleigh-Durham-Charlotte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS, MBA, E-RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27703
Black Marriage Therapist. African-American Couples Counselor at As One helps disconnected couples who want to rekindle their relationship and experience heightened pleasure and intimacy. This makes everything in your life better, increases wealth and wellness. Like my clients, you deserve to experience fulfilling mind-body connection everyday. Let's bring fun and pleasure back to your relationship with the person you have committed to for life.
Black Marriage Therapist. African-American Couples Counselor at As One helps disconnected couples who want to rekindle their relationship and experience heightened pleasure and intimacy. This makes everything in your life better, increases wealth and wellness. Like my clients, you deserve to experience fulfilling mind-body connection everyday. Let's bring fun and pleasure back to your relationship with the person you have committed to for life.
(215) 532-1548 View (215) 532-1548
Photo of Rachael E. Massell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sampson County, NC
Rachael E. Massell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
I am dedicated to partnering with people who want more: more peace, more meaning, more love, more depth, more space, more insight, or more of you're-not-quite-sure-yet. We might be a great fit if you consider yourself a highly sensitive person (HSP), want to work through disordered eating or body image issues using a Health at Every Size (HAES) and Intuitive Eating approach, are an early career therapist or other helping professional wanting to build out a sustainable professional foundation for yourself and avoid or heal burnout, or know you benefit from working with a therapist operating from an anti-oppressive lens.
I am dedicated to partnering with people who want more: more peace, more meaning, more love, more depth, more space, more insight, or more of you're-not-quite-sure-yet. We might be a great fit if you consider yourself a highly sensitive person (HSP), want to work through disordered eating or body image issues using a Health at Every Size (HAES) and Intuitive Eating approach, are an early career therapist or other helping professional wanting to build out a sustainable professional foundation for yourself and avoid or heal burnout, or know you benefit from working with a therapist operating from an anti-oppressive lens.
(919) 646-3827 View (919) 646-3827

See more therapy options for Sampson 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.