Photo of Dr. Heather Dancy Morgan, DBH, LCSW, CFMHE, CCCE, CCAPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Heather Dancy Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW, CFMHE, CCCE, CCAPT
Verified Verified
Thomasville, NC 27360
Do you feel on overload from anxiety or a deep sadness that won't just go away? Sometimes we reach a point where we feel we need a little extra help to get through a situation we are facing, or sometimes just life in general. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental approach to counseling and welcome those experiencing life's challenges. I have dedicated my life to behavioral health and wellness and specialize in working with those experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, mood disorders, thought disorders and PTSD, among many others. I also offer Mental Health Assessments, Parenting Capacity Assessments and Child Custody Evaluations.
Do you feel on overload from anxiety or a deep sadness that won't just go away? Sometimes we reach a point where we feel we need a little extra help to get through a situation we are facing, or sometimes just life in general. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental approach to counseling and welcome those experiencing life's challenges. I have dedicated my life to behavioral health and wellness and specialize in working with those experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, mood disorders, thought disorders and PTSD, among many others. I also offer Mental Health Assessments, Parenting Capacity Assessments and Child Custody Evaluations.
(336) 447-1661 View (336) 447-1661
Photo of Tamika Wright, LCMHCA
Tamika Wright
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thomasville, NC 27360
As your counselor, I am here to support you in making meaning, creating comfort, and uncovering resources to help you be your best self. Taking an evidenced-based, client centered, and existentially informed approach, I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where we can collaborate and work at your own pace to help you reach your goals.
As your counselor, I am here to support you in making meaning, creating comfort, and uncovering resources to help you be your best self. Taking an evidenced-based, client centered, and existentially informed approach, I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where we can collaborate and work at your own pace to help you reach your goals.
(704) 459-8953 View (704) 459-8953

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Madalina Ochenatu, MS, CRC, LCMHCA, Counselor
Madalina Ochenatu
Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27260
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 Mary Cottam Keever, LCSW, CHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Cottam Keever
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHC
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27265
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
(336) 916-9181 View (336) 916-9181
Photo of Esther Mendez, MS, CRC, LCMHC
Esther Mendez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wallburg, NC 27373
Personal power is necessary when bad things happen to good people. With over 18 years of experience in the mental health field, I've worked with individuals of all ages and their families. So whether it's the end of a marriage or a job; PTSD; depression or the roller coaster of ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Behavioral Addictions and more, I'm here to help you step through the door of your "old" normal and into improved personal power and an increased sense of personal success that will become your "new" normal with a happier, healthier life.
Personal power is necessary when bad things happen to good people. With over 18 years of experience in the mental health field, I've worked with individuals of all ages and their families. So whether it's the end of a marriage or a job; PTSD; depression or the roller coaster of ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Behavioral Addictions and more, I'm here to help you step through the door of your "old" normal and into improved personal power and an increased sense of personal success that will become your "new" normal with a happier, healthier life.
(336) 814-9297 View (336) 814-9297
Photo of Keisha McCleese Moore, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keisha McCleese Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27262
Waitlist for new clients
I would like to acknowledge and congratulate you on the courage required to take the steps necessary towards achieving your desired goals. The counseling process can be intimidating as it requires you to entrust your current behaviors, thoughts, feelings and concerns to a licensed professional in the hopes of relieving problematic symptoms. My goal is to assist you in this process by providing a warm and empathetic environment in which you are able to discuss, explore, and decide the direction you would like to take. My approach serves to teach you the skills and techniques to effectively identify current problems with confidence.
I would like to acknowledge and congratulate you on the courage required to take the steps necessary towards achieving your desired goals. The counseling process can be intimidating as it requires you to entrust your current behaviors, thoughts, feelings and concerns to a licensed professional in the hopes of relieving problematic symptoms. My goal is to assist you in this process by providing a warm and empathetic environment in which you are able to discuss, explore, and decide the direction you would like to take. My approach serves to teach you the skills and techniques to effectively identify current problems with confidence.
(336) 439-1618 View (336) 439-1618
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Levy, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Rebecca Levy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27260
We all deserve a safe space to understand and take care of our health. Many times a new physical diagnosis is given and treated but a big part of your health is forgotten, your mental health. My approach to your health is holistically. Physical health diagnoses can impact how we feel and interact. We forget that our brain lives inside of our body and to heal we must think about the entire body. Using this lens, I work with those struggling with a new physical diagnosis, mood disorders, trauma, life transitions and family distress. I have also worked with various healthcare workers in navigating burnout and healthcare challenges.
We all deserve a safe space to understand and take care of our health. Many times a new physical diagnosis is given and treated but a big part of your health is forgotten, your mental health. My approach to your health is holistically. Physical health diagnoses can impact how we feel and interact. We forget that our brain lives inside of our body and to heal we must think about the entire body. Using this lens, I work with those struggling with a new physical diagnosis, mood disorders, trauma, life transitions and family distress. I have also worked with various healthcare workers in navigating burnout and healthcare challenges.
(336) 742-1958 View (336) 742-1958
Photo of undefined - Piedmont Counseling & Development Services, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Piedmont Counseling & Development Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27260
I have had the opportunity to assist people in obtaining their personal goals since 1994.
I have had the opportunity to assist people in obtaining their personal goals since 1994.
(336) 814-9941 View (336) 814-9941
Photo of undefined - Reigning Restoration Counseling Services, PLLC, DMin, LCMHCA, Counselor
Reigning Restoration Counseling Services, PLLC
Counselor, DMin, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27260
The storms of life bring damaging rain and wind that affect us the same way a storm can damage a physical house. Let me help you restore your life to its rightful state. I will help you gain restoration from the blows of life. I offer counseling in a safe compassionate environment.
The storms of life bring damaging rain and wind that affect us the same way a storm can damage a physical house. Let me help you restore your life to its rightful state. I will help you gain restoration from the blows of life. I offer counseling in a safe compassionate environment.
(336) 872-9655 View (336) 872-9655
Photo of Amber Turlik, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Turlik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27265  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist with over 17 years of experience in the field. I have dedicated my life to helping others define and create the life that they want and am passionate in my efforts to serve all those that are suffering from the challenges of mental health and life transitions. My approach is holistic and I utilize several therapeutic modalities to include CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, DBT and Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment. I work to meet you where you are and utilize the appropriate interventions.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist with over 17 years of experience in the field. I have dedicated my life to helping others define and create the life that they want and am passionate in my efforts to serve all those that are suffering from the challenges of mental health and life transitions. My approach is holistic and I utilize several therapeutic modalities to include CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, DBT and Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment. I work to meet you where you are and utilize the appropriate interventions.
(910) 375-7532 View (910) 375-7532
Restoration is a Journey
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27262
Our practice offers multiple services as a General Practice and Addiction Specialty Treatment Center. We focus on client-centered treatment, where our team looks at treatment as a metamorphosis process; as each phase is extremely important and personalized to the client's wants and needs according to where you are in your journey to restoration. The caterpillar can not become a butterfly in its entirety without going through each phase of the process that the team, as well as, the client create during the treatment team process.
Our practice offers multiple services as a General Practice and Addiction Specialty Treatment Center. We focus on client-centered treatment, where our team looks at treatment as a metamorphosis process; as each phase is extremely important and personalized to the client's wants and needs according to where you are in your journey to restoration. The caterpillar can not become a butterfly in its entirety without going through each phase of the process that the team, as well as, the client create during the treatment team process.
(336) 489-8319 View (336) 489-8319

Online Therapists

Photo of Cindy W Hickman, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Cindy W Hickman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sanford, NC 27330
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed with life, exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event? Perhaps you struggle with a chronic illness. Maybe you struggle with a difficult child or teen. Or maybe your partner has been unfaithful. Are you tired of feeling isolated and hopeless? You want- no, you need- things to change, but you don’t where to begin. Asking for help can be one of the most difficulty things to do, but I would be honored to help you discover your inner strength and begin your journey to healing and being who you are meant to be.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed with life, exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event? Perhaps you struggle with a chronic illness. Maybe you struggle with a difficult child or teen. Or maybe your partner has been unfaithful. Are you tired of feeling isolated and hopeless? You want- no, you need- things to change, but you don’t where to begin. Asking for help can be one of the most difficulty things to do, but I would be honored to help you discover your inner strength and begin your journey to healing and being who you are meant to be.
(984) 234-5683 View (984) 234-5683
Photo of Mary Lucas Lacey, DBH, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Lucas Lacey
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Now Accepting New Patients! How long have you been in pain? Have you been living with it so long that you don't remember how it started? Past and current damage can sabotage our attempts at living the life we deserve and prevent us from trusting others. Often before people enter therapy, they have tried many things to make changes in their lives in order to feel better. Nothing has worked- at least for long. Talking about your problems is not enough. I will help you identify destructive patterns that have interfered with your ability to enjoy life and replace them with healthy solutions.
Now Accepting New Patients! How long have you been in pain? Have you been living with it so long that you don't remember how it started? Past and current damage can sabotage our attempts at living the life we deserve and prevent us from trusting others. Often before people enter therapy, they have tried many things to make changes in their lives in order to feel better. Nothing has worked- at least for long. Talking about your problems is not enough. I will help you identify destructive patterns that have interfered with your ability to enjoy life and replace them with healthy solutions.
(980) 365-8220 View (980) 365-8220
Photo of Anna Mulhollem, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Mulhollem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I serve individual adults needing support with emotion regulation, chronic pain, grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. It takes so much courage to be on this journey, and it can be overwhelming to search for a therapist. I get that and will meet you right where you are. As a psychotherapist and former mental health peer support specialist, I bring my lived experience and professional expertise to our work together. My goal is to co-create a space with you of trust, compassion, and respect to build a foundation for healing. I am honored to join you on your path.
I serve individual adults needing support with emotion regulation, chronic pain, grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. It takes so much courage to be on this journey, and it can be overwhelming to search for a therapist. I get that and will meet you right where you are. As a psychotherapist and former mental health peer support specialist, I bring my lived experience and professional expertise to our work together. My goal is to co-create a space with you of trust, compassion, and respect to build a foundation for healing. I am honored to join you on your path.
(919) 289-4161 View (919) 289-4161
Photo of Suzanne Sims, LCMHCA, Counselor
Suzanne Sims
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
I create a casual, down-to-earth space for women to process anxiety, depression, grief, and chronic pain/illness in light of their faith.
Your faith has lost its spark. You want to believe, but right now it’s hard. You want to feel close to God, yet everything you do makes you feel farther and farther from Him, leaving you feeling defeated and hopeless. The questions. The doubts. They’re LOUD. You remember a time when your faith was strong. But now? Now the suffering you experience has you questioning everything you thought you knew. Maybe church abuse is real for you. Whether the leadership of the church or the people of the church. It’s brutally painful. “If that’s what a Christian is…I’m out.” But in your heart, you don’t want to abandon ship.
I create a casual, down-to-earth space for women to process anxiety, depression, grief, and chronic pain/illness in light of their faith.
Your faith has lost its spark. You want to believe, but right now it’s hard. You want to feel close to God, yet everything you do makes you feel farther and farther from Him, leaving you feeling defeated and hopeless. The questions. The doubts. They’re LOUD. You remember a time when your faith was strong. But now? Now the suffering you experience has you questioning everything you thought you knew. Maybe church abuse is real for you. Whether the leadership of the church or the people of the church. It’s brutally painful. “If that’s what a Christian is…I’m out.” But in your heart, you don’t want to abandon ship.
(919) 298-8655 View (919) 298-8655
Photo of undefined - Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC, DBH, LCMHCS, BCIM, BC-TMH, NCC
Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, DBH, LCMHCS, BCIM, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28070  (Online Only)
Feeling as if you will never get well? Tired of visiting multiple practices in search of answers and never finding them? Do you have difficulty managing a chronic illness or complying with your provider's recommended treatment plan? If any of these scenarios sound familiar, allow one of our team members to assist you in regaining your optimal health.
The clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC are qualified, credentialed, and licensed professionals whose primary mission is to provide quality therapeutic care and organizational training to the surrounding community. Their goal is to empower people; to enrich lives; to give you control of your outcomes; and to restore your body, mind and spirit back to their optimal states of functioning. The certified and licensed clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions have over 28 years of experience and are trained in equipping clients with the tools necessary to maximize their environment and enhance their well-being.
Feeling as if you will never get well? Tired of visiting multiple practices in search of answers and never finding them? Do you have difficulty managing a chronic illness or complying with your provider's recommended treatment plan? If any of these scenarios sound familiar, allow one of our team members to assist you in regaining your optimal health.
The clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC are qualified, credentialed, and licensed professionals whose primary mission is to provide quality therapeutic care and organizational training to the surrounding community. Their goal is to empower people; to enrich lives; to give you control of your outcomes; and to restore your body, mind and spirit back to their optimal states of functioning. The certified and licensed clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions have over 28 years of experience and are trained in equipping clients with the tools necessary to maximize their environment and enhance their well-being.
(704) 896-6044 x1 View (704) 896-6044 x1
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 Paula Garrard, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paula Garrard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28655
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have worked over the last 15 + years helping people through difficult times in their lives. I am compassionate, caring and offer a safe place to express your feelings without judgement, to improve your life regardless of the issues you face. I help people experiencing loss and grief, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, life changes, self-worth, relationship/marital issues, chronic/terminal illness, adjustment at retirement, and many other issues that maybe keeping you from living your best life. The holistic approach I incorporate is always tailored to your specific issues and needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have worked over the last 15 + years helping people through difficult times in their lives. I am compassionate, caring and offer a safe place to express your feelings without judgement, to improve your life regardless of the issues you face. I help people experiencing loss and grief, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, life changes, self-worth, relationship/marital issues, chronic/terminal illness, adjustment at retirement, and many other issues that maybe keeping you from living your best life. The holistic approach I incorporate is always tailored to your specific issues and needs.
(828) 900-2599 View (828) 900-2599
Photo of Janet Heuring Larsen, MA, LCAS, LPA, HSP-PA, CTP, Psychologist
Janet Heuring Larsen
Psychologist, MA, LCAS, LPA, HSP-PA, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
PRACTICE MAY HAVE A WAITLIST, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR INQUIRIES: My psychology practice is committed to delivering highly effective treatment and outstanding client care. I've helped individuals navigate challenges and improve their lives for over 10 years. I treat clients with an array of issues including relationship struggles, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, anger, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, substance use/addiction and grief. I serve many clients with co-occurring disorders and have trained other therapists. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and trauma using EMDR and also offer ADHD/ADD counseling.
PRACTICE MAY HAVE A WAITLIST, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR INQUIRIES: My psychology practice is committed to delivering highly effective treatment and outstanding client care. I've helped individuals navigate challenges and improve their lives for over 10 years. I treat clients with an array of issues including relationship struggles, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, anger, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, substance use/addiction and grief. I serve many clients with co-occurring disorders and have trained other therapists. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and trauma using EMDR and also offer ADHD/ADD counseling.
(919) 948-3053 View (919) 948-3053
Photo of undefined - Wake Forest Peace of Mind, PLLC, MS, MA, LCMHC
Wake Forest Peace of Mind, PLLC
MS, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
I've worked at the Miami VA, Cambridge (Massachusetts) public high school, chronic pain clinic, older adult and community mental health clinic, and now in private practice since 1998.
You are not alone.. You have options.. You can make healthy changes to give you peace of mind. P.O.M. sessions are conducted in a gentle, honest, down-to-earth, and resourceful way. My 20+ years of experience treating couples, adults, and kids help me to better clarify your challenge(s), identify options, and share strategies for change. Approach: Cognitive behavioral. Experienced, trained, interested in treating these challenges: Relationship/marital, adoption, military, depression, anxiety, panic, stress, anger, parenting, chronic pain, and life transitions (menopause, relocation, divorce). See: WFPeaceofMind.com
I've worked at the Miami VA, Cambridge (Massachusetts) public high school, chronic pain clinic, older adult and community mental health clinic, and now in private practice since 1998.
You are not alone.. You have options.. You can make healthy changes to give you peace of mind. P.O.M. sessions are conducted in a gentle, honest, down-to-earth, and resourceful way. My 20+ years of experience treating couples, adults, and kids help me to better clarify your challenge(s), identify options, and share strategies for change. Approach: Cognitive behavioral. Experienced, trained, interested in treating these challenges: Relationship/marital, adoption, military, depression, anxiety, panic, stress, anger, parenting, chronic pain, and life transitions (menopause, relocation, divorce). See: WFPeaceofMind.com
(919) 249-7192 View (919) 249-7192

See more therapy options for Thomasville

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.