Photo of Amanda Lewis-Yarbrough - Avondale & Associates Psychological Services , PhD, Psychologist
Avondale & Associates Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36117
Our goal is to help you achieve balance and growth, gently heal from your pain, and move forward toward the life you envision for yourself.
At our practice, we are dedicated to offering compassionate psychological services tailored to your unique goals, helping you enhance your quality of life. With our extensive experience, we provide effective, individualized outpatient mental health care designed to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re seeking support for mental health disorders, need assessment services, or are looking for a neutral space for individuals, families, or couples (including both traditional and alternative relationships), we are here to support you with empathy and expertise.
Our goal is to help you achieve balance and growth, gently heal from your pain, and move forward toward the life you envision for yourself.
At our practice, we are dedicated to offering compassionate psychological services tailored to your unique goals, helping you enhance your quality of life. With our extensive experience, we provide effective, individualized outpatient mental health care designed to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re seeking support for mental health disorders, need assessment services, or are looking for a neutral space for individuals, families, or couples (including both traditional and alternative relationships), we are here to support you with empathy and expertise.
(334) 686-0720 x1001 View (334) 686-0720 x1001
Photo of Laura B Young, MS, LMFT, CCH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura B Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCH
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36117
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT. a Clinical Hypnotherapist, CCH... and a Manifestation Coach for Women I know these are difficult times. Here is help for you! My Personal and Professional Experiences come together to help Women overcome “feeling stuck and discouraged. “I am devoted to unraveling difficult situations allowing for meaningful change to occur. Together we can bring clarity to complicated situations, respond to loss and regret with compassion: and break the cycle of addictive behaviors. I welcome whatever you bring to the table. .Call (no text) FREE 20 min consult.334-277-7955.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT. a Clinical Hypnotherapist, CCH... and a Manifestation Coach for Women I know these are difficult times. Here is help for you! My Personal and Professional Experiences come together to help Women overcome “feeling stuck and discouraged. “I am devoted to unraveling difficult situations allowing for meaningful change to occur. Together we can bring clarity to complicated situations, respond to loss and regret with compassion: and break the cycle of addictive behaviors. I welcome whatever you bring to the table. .Call (no text) FREE 20 min consult.334-277-7955.
(334) 651-0938 View (334) 651-0938
Photo of Dr. Carrie J. Nelson, PhD, ACSW, LICSW, SAP, CFMHE, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Carrie J. Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, ACSW, LICSW, SAP, CFMHE
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36106
HAVEN provides an alternative that considers both the challenges that an individual is currently facing as well as the circumstances that may be contributing to these challenges. Providing a more confidential services, HAVEN takes an integrated approach to health, wellness, and healing of the mind, body, and spirit.
HAVEN provides an alternative that considers both the challenges that an individual is currently facing as well as the circumstances that may be contributing to these challenges. Providing a more confidential services, HAVEN takes an integrated approach to health, wellness, and healing of the mind, body, and spirit.
(334) 398-6127 View (334) 398-6127
Photo of Mindy Landrum - Pike Road Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pike Road Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pike Road, AL 36064
Hello! Thank you for taking the time to learn more information about Pike Road Counseling. At PRC, we strive to create a warm, welcoming, and therapeutic environment for everyone. Our goal is that when you come, you experience a sense of peace and hope, and leave feeling refreshed, with renewed energy to tackle whatever you are going through. We want to help you feel more equipped for positive change in all areas of your life. It is our JOY to walk with you on the journey!
Hello! Thank you for taking the time to learn more information about Pike Road Counseling. At PRC, we strive to create a warm, welcoming, and therapeutic environment for everyone. Our goal is that when you come, you experience a sense of peace and hope, and leave feeling refreshed, with renewed energy to tackle whatever you are going through. We want to help you feel more equipped for positive change in all areas of your life. It is our JOY to walk with you on the journey!
(334) 605-8643 View (334) 605-8643
Photo of Jefkida Johnson, PhD, MA, LMFTA, LMHCS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jefkida Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD, MA, LMFTA, LMHCS
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36117
Compassion and comfort during our most difficult times offer us healing and peace when our world is turned upside down. Here is a gentle reminder that having someone to express yourself and to voice your frustrations can transform a crisis into a calming and beautiful day. Your presence and peace of mind is the most important gift you can offer yourself weekly, biweekly, or monthly. Therapy sessions are affordable for you when using insurance, EAP coverage, or need self pay options. You can book appointments at your convenience to get started or send an email to schedule an appointment. I accept clients of all ages and ethnicities.
Compassion and comfort during our most difficult times offer us healing and peace when our world is turned upside down. Here is a gentle reminder that having someone to express yourself and to voice your frustrations can transform a crisis into a calming and beautiful day. Your presence and peace of mind is the most important gift you can offer yourself weekly, biweekly, or monthly. Therapy sessions are affordable for you when using insurance, EAP coverage, or need self pay options. You can book appointments at your convenience to get started or send an email to schedule an appointment. I accept clients of all ages and ethnicities.
(334) 459-9084 View (334) 459-9084
Photo of Dottie Dickson Skipper, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dottie Dickson Skipper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36106
If you want to live more "on purpose", we will work together to facilitate just that. Few people can avoid struggles in life and sometimes these struggles are overwhelming, especially when faced alone. In therapy, solutions to your problems become obvious and you will be supported professionally to make them happen. Your relationships will improve and successful coping skills will be taught. How you feel is important and what you do in your personal life with regard to those feelings even more so.
If you want to live more "on purpose", we will work together to facilitate just that. Few people can avoid struggles in life and sometimes these struggles are overwhelming, especially when faced alone. In therapy, solutions to your problems become obvious and you will be supported professionally to make them happen. Your relationships will improve and successful coping skills will be taught. How you feel is important and what you do in your personal life with regard to those feelings even more so.
(334) 309-8334 View (334) 309-8334
Photo of Thea Barnes Langley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Thea Barnes Langley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, AL 36102
My passion is helping my clients to live the best life possible by teaching them how to deal with the stress and anxiety of life. We all desire positive, productive relationships that enhance the quality of our lives, however, we often have a difficult time sustaining these relationships. I work with my clients teaching them easy ways to make small changes in their lives which can yield BIG changes in their attitudes and relationships! It doesn't happen overnight, but it does happen. We all have the potential to make positive changes; you can take the first step TODAY!
My passion is helping my clients to live the best life possible by teaching them how to deal with the stress and anxiety of life. We all desire positive, productive relationships that enhance the quality of our lives, however, we often have a difficult time sustaining these relationships. I work with my clients teaching them easy ways to make small changes in their lives which can yield BIG changes in their attitudes and relationships! It doesn't happen overnight, but it does happen. We all have the potential to make positive changes; you can take the first step TODAY!
(334) 203-4019 View (334) 203-4019
Photo of Pamela Babers - Changing Lives One Conversation At A Time LLC., LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Changing Lives One Conversation At A Time LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36117
Sometimes in life, daily stressors can become very overwhelming and can cause you to waver or wonder. Life challenges can cause you to be motionless, lose hope, and feel incapacitated by your thoughts. You have convinced yourself that there is no way out, which have caused your sense of self-worth to weaken. My passion is to help you find the skills, provide support, and uncover the strength you will need to be successfully in life. My vision is to ensure an atmosphere that is safe and welcoming. Thank you for considering me as you embark on your new journey. Feel free to contact with me via phone or email with any questions.
Sometimes in life, daily stressors can become very overwhelming and can cause you to waver or wonder. Life challenges can cause you to be motionless, lose hope, and feel incapacitated by your thoughts. You have convinced yourself that there is no way out, which have caused your sense of self-worth to weaken. My passion is to help you find the skills, provide support, and uncover the strength you will need to be successfully in life. My vision is to ensure an atmosphere that is safe and welcoming. Thank you for considering me as you embark on your new journey. Feel free to contact with me via phone or email with any questions.
(334) 345-3178 View (334) 345-3178
Photo of Patricia Telfort, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Telfort
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, AL 36117
Hello, I am Patricia. I am a multilingual, Licensed Master Social Worker with over 10 years of providing supportive counseling and therapy from a strengths based perspective. I have experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is solutions focused to help clients move from crisis to confidence. I earned my Sociology Bachelor’s of Arts from New York University and my Master’s of Science in Social Work from Columbia University. I have worked in various clinical settings and care systems for over 14 years.
Hello, I am Patricia. I am a multilingual, Licensed Master Social Worker with over 10 years of providing supportive counseling and therapy from a strengths based perspective. I have experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is solutions focused to help clients move from crisis to confidence. I earned my Sociology Bachelor’s of Arts from New York University and my Master’s of Science in Social Work from Columbia University. I have worked in various clinical settings and care systems for over 14 years.
(929) 203-9731 View (929) 203-9731
Photo of Sasha Mercedes Johnson - Inside and Out Consulting, Licensed Professional Counselor
Inside and Out Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, AL 36104
My ideal client could be anyone within any population. I have gained a number of skills with adolescents and adults that range from trauma, crisis, substance abuse and overall mental health issues that affects individuals and their families. I focus on motivating families to work together in order to strengthen their family unit. I have received training on Ethics, Responding to the Military Child with Exceptional Needs, Suicide Prevention and others. I prefer to take a Solution-Focused Approach when providing therapy.
My ideal client could be anyone within any population. I have gained a number of skills with adolescents and adults that range from trauma, crisis, substance abuse and overall mental health issues that affects individuals and their families. I focus on motivating families to work together in order to strengthen their family unit. I have received training on Ethics, Responding to the Military Child with Exceptional Needs, Suicide Prevention and others. I prefer to take a Solution-Focused Approach when providing therapy.
(334) 394-3769 View (334) 394-3769
Photo of Mary R Graydon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary R Graydon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36104
Not accepting new clients
I've developed expertise in helping clients with: navigating relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma resulting from chronic exposure, abuse, or single events, chronic pain, chronic illness, family of origin issues.
I'm NOT accepting new clients currently. I echo these words from Dr. Brené Brown: "When we deny the story, it defines us. When we own the story, we can write a brave new ending." I enjoy working as a team with my clients to create new endings through understanding personal narratives, pin-pointing sources blocking growth, and identifying steps towards achieving desired outcomes. I provide a relatable, empathic, creative, and professional environment. Because each person holds unique qualities and circumstances, I work to holistically understand clients and tailor the counseling experience around clients' specific needs and desires.
I've developed expertise in helping clients with: navigating relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma resulting from chronic exposure, abuse, or single events, chronic pain, chronic illness, family of origin issues.
I'm NOT accepting new clients currently. I echo these words from Dr. Brené Brown: "When we deny the story, it defines us. When we own the story, we can write a brave new ending." I enjoy working as a team with my clients to create new endings through understanding personal narratives, pin-pointing sources blocking growth, and identifying steps towards achieving desired outcomes. I provide a relatable, empathic, creative, and professional environment. Because each person holds unique qualities and circumstances, I work to holistically understand clients and tailor the counseling experience around clients' specific needs and desires.
(334) 468-6413 View (334) 468-6413
Photo of Jennifer Rosado, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Rosado
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montgomery, AL 36104
Not accepting new clients
My name is Jennifer, I'm a Licensed Professional counselor in Texas and Alabama. I have experience with a wide variety of individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, substance abuse, sexual trauma and grief/loss. I have experience with adolescents, emerging adults and adults from different cultures and backgrounds. I also enjoy working with individuals who are considering a life transition and/or a career change. I am here to walk alongside you as you contemplate the next right step for you. If you are hurting, you are not alone. Counseling can be a first step to healing, growth, and positive change in your life.
My name is Jennifer, I'm a Licensed Professional counselor in Texas and Alabama. I have experience with a wide variety of individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, substance abuse, sexual trauma and grief/loss. I have experience with adolescents, emerging adults and adults from different cultures and backgrounds. I also enjoy working with individuals who are considering a life transition and/or a career change. I am here to walk alongside you as you contemplate the next right step for you. If you are hurting, you are not alone. Counseling can be a first step to healing, growth, and positive change in your life.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347

Online Therapists

Photo of Marilyn Michelle Knight - Integrative Health Services, LLC Michelle Knight, MSW, LICSW, PIP, CREP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Integrative Health Services, LLC Michelle Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP, CREP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Pelham, AL 35124
I counsel on many sensitive and intimate topics. Are you struggling with marital issues, have an at-risk teen, grief, gambling, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, or a chronic illness? Is a relationship or career choice no longer serving you in a positive way? My office is a nurturing place that welcomes openness and individuality. I'm an outside the box thinker, a supporter of the LGBTQ plus community, someone who has a personal investment in your success, and can be the confidential sounding board that is difficult to find.
I counsel on many sensitive and intimate topics. Are you struggling with marital issues, have an at-risk teen, grief, gambling, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, or a chronic illness? Is a relationship or career choice no longer serving you in a positive way? My office is a nurturing place that welcomes openness and individuality. I'm an outside the box thinker, a supporter of the LGBTQ plus community, someone who has a personal investment in your success, and can be the confidential sounding board that is difficult to find.
(205) 523-8502 View (205) 523-8502
Photo of Patricia A Schiller, PhD, Psychologist
Patricia A Schiller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Eufaula, AL 36027
If you are looking for a mature and experienced the therapist who takes your concerns seriously, please keep reading. There is no problem that is utterly impossible. I treat the whole person who is sitting beside me, not just a label or a diagnosis. I know that most people simply want to find solutions to their problems and live the most satisfying lives possible. My therapy tends to be brief and solution focused. I am aware that most people seek therapy when they are in pain and that they want relief as quickly as possible.
If you are looking for a mature and experienced the therapist who takes your concerns seriously, please keep reading. There is no problem that is utterly impossible. I treat the whole person who is sitting beside me, not just a label or a diagnosis. I know that most people simply want to find solutions to their problems and live the most satisfying lives possible. My therapy tends to be brief and solution focused. I am aware that most people seek therapy when they are in pain and that they want relief as quickly as possible.
(334) 597-5840 View (334) 597-5840
Photo of Kwajalin Brown - Compass Rose Behavioral Health, DSW, MSW, LICSW-S, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Compass Rose Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, LICSW-S, PIP
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405  (Online Only)
Known for mywork with those coping with addictions, anxiety, childhood trauma, chronic illness, depression, grief and loss, parenting difficulties (including parenting a neuro-atypical or neuro-diverse child), relationship issues.
Compass Rose Behavioral Health was established to guide and support your unique life journey by helping you discover yourself, and your purpose as your life changes directions. I believe orthodox approaches to traditional mental health are cookie cutter and go for a more individualized approach. I am committed to customizing your experience, educating you, being honest and practical. All we ask is that you trust the process. In return you will learn how to: build your resilience and develop strategies to effectively manage and/or overcome obstacles.
Known for mywork with those coping with addictions, anxiety, childhood trauma, chronic illness, depression, grief and loss, parenting difficulties (including parenting a neuro-atypical or neuro-diverse child), relationship issues.
Compass Rose Behavioral Health was established to guide and support your unique life journey by helping you discover yourself, and your purpose as your life changes directions. I believe orthodox approaches to traditional mental health are cookie cutter and go for a more individualized approach. I am committed to customizing your experience, educating you, being honest and practical. All we ask is that you trust the process. In return you will learn how to: build your resilience and develop strategies to effectively manage and/or overcome obstacles.
(205) 751-2970 View (205) 751-2970
Photo of Alena Porter, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alena Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Auburn, AL 36830  (Online Only)
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence. Ideally, sex makes us feel happy, loved, and connected. Yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you avoided talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Have you ever had a sexual encounter that was other than consentual but you didn't know who to talk to or even what to say about it? If so, I can help you work through your thoughts and feelings about sex and sexual experiences
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence. Ideally, sex makes us feel happy, loved, and connected. Yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you avoided talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Have you ever had a sexual encounter that was other than consentual but you didn't know who to talk to or even what to say about it? If so, I can help you work through your thoughts and feelings about sex and sexual experiences
(256) 300-6088 View (256) 300-6088
Photo of Misty Smith - Misty Smith, PhD, LPC-S Certified Sex Therapist, PhD, LPC-S, CST, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Misty Smith, PhD, LPC-S Certified Sex Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
Sexual issues with you and/or your partner including sexual dysfunctions such as low libido/sexual desire discrepancy, sexual pain, ED (men), etc. can be overwhelming & difficult to navigate or even discuss. I provide a safe, judgement-free environment to process & address these struggles as well as sexual identity & alternative lifestyle issues/struggles. Also treating: Relationship/Marital/Pre-Marital, Sexual Addiction & Anxiety/Depression related to Sexual Issues.
Sexual issues with you and/or your partner including sexual dysfunctions such as low libido/sexual desire discrepancy, sexual pain, ED (men), etc. can be overwhelming & difficult to navigate or even discuss. I provide a safe, judgement-free environment to process & address these struggles as well as sexual identity & alternative lifestyle issues/struggles. Also treating: Relationship/Marital/Pre-Marital, Sexual Addiction & Anxiety/Depression related to Sexual Issues.
(205) 377-5820 x700 View (205) 377-5820 x700
Photo of Marilyn Lee Knight - Integrative Health Services, LLC
Integrative Health Services, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pelham, AL 35124
Treatment includes but is not limited to depression, health issues such as autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, anxiety, grief, LGBTQ issues, alternate lifestyles, ADHD, behavioral issues, at risk teens, addictions, as well as pre-marital, marriage, divorce and co-parenting.
SATURDAY OPENINGS AVAILABLE and ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Integrative Health Services, LLC focuses on treating the mind, body, and spirit. Everyone is not the same and therefore, treatment is tailored to fit the individual needs of each person. Overall health and well-being are strongly encouraged while receiving mental health treatment. This is why Integrative Health Services keeps a unique referral list of highly qualified primary care doctors, massage therapists, holistic doctors/herbalists, yoga therapy instructors, psychiatrists, rheumatologists, personal trainers and many others that promote overall health and well-being.
Treatment includes but is not limited to depression, health issues such as autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, anxiety, grief, LGBTQ issues, alternate lifestyles, ADHD, behavioral issues, at risk teens, addictions, as well as pre-marital, marriage, divorce and co-parenting.
SATURDAY OPENINGS AVAILABLE and ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Integrative Health Services, LLC focuses on treating the mind, body, and spirit. Everyone is not the same and therefore, treatment is tailored to fit the individual needs of each person. Overall health and well-being are strongly encouraged while receiving mental health treatment. This is why Integrative Health Services keeps a unique referral list of highly qualified primary care doctors, massage therapists, holistic doctors/herbalists, yoga therapy instructors, psychiatrists, rheumatologists, personal trainers and many others that promote overall health and well-being.
(833) 567-3538 View (833) 567-3538
Photo of Judith Wilson, MEd, LPC, SC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Judith Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, SC
Verified Verified
McCalla, AL 35111
Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: anxiety and/or depression, pre-marital/marital issues, chronic pain/ illness, chemical dependency, family issues, dealing with trauma/abuse from the past, and grief and loss.
NOW ACCEPTING BLUE CROSS/BLUE SHIELD AND UNITED HEALTHCARE I have over 25 years experience in the Mental Health field, having worked in a variety of settings. I have certification in Trauma Counseling. I work with all ages, regardless of sex, race, lifestyle choice, or economic status. If you are having challenges because of anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, or family issues, I can provide you with assistance. I am also a Certified Transformation Life Coach - helping people transform their lives and realize their dreams.
Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: anxiety and/or depression, pre-marital/marital issues, chronic pain/ illness, chemical dependency, family issues, dealing with trauma/abuse from the past, and grief and loss.
NOW ACCEPTING BLUE CROSS/BLUE SHIELD AND UNITED HEALTHCARE I have over 25 years experience in the Mental Health field, having worked in a variety of settings. I have certification in Trauma Counseling. I work with all ages, regardless of sex, race, lifestyle choice, or economic status. If you are having challenges because of anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, or family issues, I can provide you with assistance. I am also a Certified Transformation Life Coach - helping people transform their lives and realize their dreams.
(844) 294-8195 View (844) 294-8195
Photo of Heather Leigh Larson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Leigh Larson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
As a Counselor and Certified Yoga Instructor, I assist clients in addressing anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, and stress, while occasionally assimilating yoga concepts into counseling with incredible results in those seeking to more effectively manage these issues.
Insight, motivation, purpose. These three words describe how I can help. Are you looking to gain insight into your struggles? Motivation to grow and get better as a person? Looking for someone to come along side you in your journey to find purpose in life? We can work together as your story unfolds, taking your past and present experiences to make a plan for a healthy, fulfilling, more purposeful future. We can work together to identify and practice techniques and skills that will benefit you and help you to thrive in your relationships and in life.
As a Counselor and Certified Yoga Instructor, I assist clients in addressing anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, and stress, while occasionally assimilating yoga concepts into counseling with incredible results in those seeking to more effectively manage these issues.
Insight, motivation, purpose. These three words describe how I can help. Are you looking to gain insight into your struggles? Motivation to grow and get better as a person? Looking for someone to come along side you in your journey to find purpose in life? We can work together as your story unfolds, taking your past and present experiences to make a plan for a healthy, fulfilling, more purposeful future. We can work together to identify and practice techniques and skills that will benefit you and help you to thrive in your relationships and in life.
(205) 767-7461 View (205) 767-7461

See more therapy options for Montgomery 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.