Chronic Pain Therapists in North Carolina
![Photo of Angela S McLean - Resilient Counseling, PLLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43adab89-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Resilient Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518
Additionally, Angela works individually with adults experiencing divorce/relationship problems, depression, anxiety/stress, addictions, stress related medical conditions, and chronic pain.
Angela S. McLean, LMFT works with individual clients as well as couples and whole families and specializes in helping people find peace in the midst of constant change and daily chaos. Individual sessions are designed to help clients develop the ability to maintain an inner tranquility that is not easily affected by outside circumstances or pressures. Couples and families work to build a strong foundation and lasting, satisfying relationships. If you are looking for peace within yourself, your marriage, or your home, contact Angela today.
Additionally, Angela works individually with adults experiencing divorce/relationship problems, depression, anxiety/stress, addictions, stress related medical conditions, and chronic pain.
Angela S. McLean, LMFT works with individual clients as well as couples and whole families and specializes in helping people find peace in the midst of constant change and daily chaos. Individual sessions are designed to help clients develop the ability to maintain an inner tranquility that is not easily affected by outside circumstances or pressures. Couples and families work to build a strong foundation and lasting, satisfying relationships. If you are looking for peace within yourself, your marriage, or your home, contact Angela today.
![Photo of Tara Jubanowsky, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e8b2b7e-a2e0-40cc-8785-a2858410b697/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tara Jubanowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270 (Online Only)
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
![Photo of Frank E Gantz - Dr. Gantz- Davidson Psychological Consulting, PC, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fbe8ab8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gantz- Davidson Psychological Consulting, PC
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036 (Online Only)
ALL SERVICE PROVIDED VIA VIDEO TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Gantz is a Board Certified Clinical Psychologist, achieved by only 4% of eligible psychologists. With over 40 years of mental health experience and 33 years as a licensed psychologist, he specializes in working with people dealing with anxiety issues (including test and performance anxiety), post-traumatic stress (including combat, accidents and assaults), depression & mood disorders, chronic pain, medical disorders, conversion disorders, interpersonal problems and more. See https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-e-gantz-psyd-abpp-93a944185/ or https://davidsonpsychology.wordpress.com/
ALL SERVICE PROVIDED VIA VIDEO TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Gantz is a Board Certified Clinical Psychologist, achieved by only 4% of eligible psychologists. With over 40 years of mental health experience and 33 years as a licensed psychologist, he specializes in working with people dealing with anxiety issues (including test and performance anxiety), post-traumatic stress (including combat, accidents and assaults), depression & mood disorders, chronic pain, medical disorders, conversion disorders, interpersonal problems and more. See https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-e-gantz-psyd-abpp-93a944185/ or https://davidsonpsychology.wordpress.com/
![Photo of Beatrice Andres, SEP, LCMHC, NCC, Somatic, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51210930-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Beatrice Andres
Licensed Professional Counselor, SEP, LCMHC, NCC, Somatic
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
I specialize and am passionate about working with clients who struggle with developmental trauma, medical trauma, attachment and relationship wounds, PTSD, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, chronic pain, disordered eating, addictive behaviors, and feelings of not belonging.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and a Transforming Touch® Therapist.
I specialize and am passionate about working with clients who struggle with developmental trauma, medical trauma, attachment and relationship wounds, PTSD, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, chronic pain, disordered eating, addictive behaviors, and feelings of not belonging.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and a Transforming Touch® Therapist.
![Photo of Joyce Hones, LCMHCA, RYT200, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b408981-c13f-42f4-9edb-c1c6550f393b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joyce Hones
Counselor, LCMHCA, RYT200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Have you been experiencing pain that interferes with your daily functioning, feeling like you have to put on a brave face to get by, but suffering inside? Are you a young adult who previously led a vibrant, active life, now struggling to adjust to a diagnosis and figure out what that means for your present and future? Do you struggle with patterns of thoughts and emotions that heighten your pain and leave you feeling hopeless about ever escaping this cycle? Maybe you are starting to consider that traumatic events in the past have contributed to your current experience of pain and suffering.
Have you been experiencing pain that interferes with your daily functioning, feeling like you have to put on a brave face to get by, but suffering inside? Are you a young adult who previously led a vibrant, active life, now struggling to adjust to a diagnosis and figure out what that means for your present and future? Do you struggle with patterns of thoughts and emotions that heighten your pain and leave you feeling hopeless about ever escaping this cycle? Maybe you are starting to consider that traumatic events in the past have contributed to your current experience of pain and suffering.
![Photo of Alan Konell, MSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d39dd884-a162-4d53-955e-d04285cbaf1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is one who wants relief from stress, anxiety, guilt and/or shame, trauma, or chronic pain, but has not been able to achieve this. Typically, I can help people realize lasting desired change efficiently and effectively. Also, I have had great success helping people with phobias and fears and those who want improved relationships. My first goal is to do no harm. My second goal is to help clients realize desired goals while respecting and preserving what is already working in their lives.
My ideal client is one who wants relief from stress, anxiety, guilt and/or shame, trauma, or chronic pain, but has not been able to achieve this. Typically, I can help people realize lasting desired change efficiently and effectively. Also, I have had great success helping people with phobias and fears and those who want improved relationships. My first goal is to do no harm. My second goal is to help clients realize desired goals while respecting and preserving what is already working in their lives.
![Photo of Dr. Camela Barker, LPA, PhD, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6019fc94-4d21-45b0-b800-49e3b3b26835/1/320x400.jpeg)
When life seems to be too much, it’s difficult to see beyond the frustration, uncertainty, or emotional pain.
Deciding to seek mental health treatment, isn’t an easy decision to make! However, it may be one of the best decisions you’ll make towards becoming the best version of you! I have 18 years of clinical and research experience treating adults with chronic health conditions, trauma, depression, anxiety, interpersonal issues, and other emotionally laden life events. I prioritize fostering a therapeutic space where you feel heard when your voice feels muted. Collaboratively, we’ll define your personal wellness goals to facilitate developing the skills needed to regain your voice and effectively navigate life’s challenges.
When life seems to be too much, it’s difficult to see beyond the frustration, uncertainty, or emotional pain.
Deciding to seek mental health treatment, isn’t an easy decision to make! However, it may be one of the best decisions you’ll make towards becoming the best version of you! I have 18 years of clinical and research experience treating adults with chronic health conditions, trauma, depression, anxiety, interpersonal issues, and other emotionally laden life events. I prioritize fostering a therapeutic space where you feel heard when your voice feels muted. Collaboratively, we’ll define your personal wellness goals to facilitate developing the skills needed to regain your voice and effectively navigate life’s challenges.
![Photo of Amber K Lynn, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9441d85c-7514-49f7-acb2-fe0de45d2734/1/320x400.png)
My passion for counseling developed from my own journey with chronic migraines, anxiety, and relationships. I enjoy working with couples and adults on a wide range of issues impacting well-being including, but not limited to, stress, trauma, communication and relationships, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, identity, mild disordered eating, confidence, or just feeling “stuck” and dissatisfied with one’s direction in life.
My passion for counseling developed from my own journey with chronic migraines, anxiety, and relationships. I enjoy working with couples and adults on a wide range of issues impacting well-being including, but not limited to, stress, trauma, communication and relationships, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, identity, mild disordered eating, confidence, or just feeling “stuck” and dissatisfied with one’s direction in life.
![Photo of Brelonda R Walker - Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC, DBH, LCMHCS, BCIM, BC-TMH, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bf19438-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jackie Ma, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f448bc0-1e83-4256-9932-4da52898ff40/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients! Are you battling pain, sleep issues, or fatigue? I'm here to help you find solutions. Together, we'll work towards a life filled with meaning and vitality. My approach is all about empowering you to handle your thoughts and feelings skillfully so you can lead the life that you imagine for yourself.
Accepting new patients! Are you battling pain, sleep issues, or fatigue? I'm here to help you find solutions. Together, we'll work towards a life filled with meaning and vitality. My approach is all about empowering you to handle your thoughts and feelings skillfully so you can lead the life that you imagine for yourself.
![Photo of Rachel Garfield, MA, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ed3b27e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Garfield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
All pain creates stress which intensifies the pain, becoming a vicious cycle that can lead to anxiety and depression, disruptive relations with others, and despair.
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I treat trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addictive behaviors and relationships with adults. The goal is in healing the client's relationship within themselves as well as with others. We will work through your past in order to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
All pain creates stress which intensifies the pain, becoming a vicious cycle that can lead to anxiety and depression, disruptive relations with others, and despair.
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I treat trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addictive behaviors and relationships with adults. The goal is in healing the client's relationship within themselves as well as with others. We will work through your past in order to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
15 Second Videos
Dr. Gantz- Davidson Psychological Consulting, PC
Joyce Hones
Jackie Ma
Madison Brightwell
Judith Ann Stubanas
Erin L Joyner
Trinity Perini
Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting
Kristin Nakhla
Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Dr. Robert Heller
Samantha Quiel
Justin D Feasel Dipl.Ac L.ac Lcsw Cch
Christine L Jeffreys
Suzanne Sims
Corey Costanzo
Jeremy T. Cochran - Cochran Christian Counseling
Asha Sims
Barbara Jean Lowe
Christen Mullane
Patricia S. Duggan
Robert Limkeman
Mary Cottam Keever
Paula Garrard
Heather Ingram
Kayla Patterson
Karen R Liddell
Leslie A Veach
Amick Boone
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Andrea Dughoff
Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC
Valarie Anne Snell
Amber Pearce
Katelyn Kivett
Jaclyn Sappah
Karen O Harmon
Colleen Fleming
Tom Murray Sex Therapist | Couples Counselor
N. Diane Stamey
Present Therapy
Esther Mendez
Virginia Oman
Jackie Belhumeur Wayne
Richard Aab
Georgie Lazarus
Neli Goire
Stillpoint Counseling and Wellness, PLLC
Trauma Eating Disorder Anxiety Recovery Laura Saune
Denotra J. Winston
Dana Peterson Dorsett
![Photo of Natalie Newton Johnston Pain Management, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ec1eceb-9854-4fc7-8ffb-09ac71a34e08/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cognitive-behavioral, individualized therapy approaches. I am part of our excellent pain clinic team, but I also treat stress, anxiety and depression issues unrelated to chronic pain. Please be aware that psychologists are required to report abuse of dependent persons or minors. Please do NOT leave personal issue information in your email or voicemail as a symptom will suffice such as "grief" or "anxiety." You will be contacted by our front desk. Thank you.
Cognitive-behavioral, individualized therapy approaches. I am part of our excellent pain clinic team, but I also treat stress, anxiety and depression issues unrelated to chronic pain. Please be aware that psychologists are required to report abuse of dependent persons or minors. Please do NOT leave personal issue information in your email or voicemail as a symptom will suffice such as "grief" or "anxiety." You will be contacted by our front desk. Thank you.
![Photo of Madison Brightwell, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88579c1c-1dea-46af-a71b-b8c61c837f6c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Madison Brightwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger.
I am licensed in four states and can offer Telehealth sessions to clients in CA, NC, WA and OR. Let's face it - life can be difficult. If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or you're struggling to just to feel "normal" again, you've made the right choice by seeking therapy. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to face and overcome life's challenges. You don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I know no two individuals are the same, and I'll tailor our sessions to address the challenges unique to you.
I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger.
I am licensed in four states and can offer Telehealth sessions to clients in CA, NC, WA and OR. Let's face it - life can be difficult. If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or you're struggling to just to feel "normal" again, you've made the right choice by seeking therapy. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to face and overcome life's challenges. You don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I know no two individuals are the same, and I'll tailor our sessions to address the challenges unique to you.
![Photo of Steve Heymen, PhD, BCIAC, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/628935a5-3c55-4808-88ff-d53a7e046158/2/320x400.jpeg)
My primary areas of interest are working with adult patients who suffer with emotional dysregulation, anxiety, chronic pain, or gastrointestinal disorders.
My goal is to help individuals develop skills to increase control over their own mental and physical health. I provide a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Biofeedback Therapy to treat a broad range of psychological and physical challenges in an atmosphere that is friendly and efficient.
My primary areas of interest are working with adult patients who suffer with emotional dysregulation, anxiety, chronic pain, or gastrointestinal disorders.
My goal is to help individuals develop skills to increase control over their own mental and physical health. I provide a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Biofeedback Therapy to treat a broad range of psychological and physical challenges in an atmosphere that is friendly and efficient.
![Photo of Julie Hardman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b312bf3-4c24-4142-b960-2ee81e118433/1/320x400.jpeg)
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!
![Photo of Kristy Bastone, LCMHCA, NCC, C-AAIS, MEd, RYT-200, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6c98792-1657-46f6-9e18-e33e741c5276/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working with clients of all ages on a wide range of issues, including chronic pain and illness, anxiety, parenting, adoption, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, addiction, veterans concerns, and grief. I believe that counseling is a collaborative experience, where both the client and therapist decide on a way forward together.
I have experience working with clients of all ages on a wide range of issues, including chronic pain and illness, anxiety, parenting, adoption, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, addiction, veterans concerns, and grief. I believe that counseling is a collaborative experience, where both the client and therapist decide on a way forward together.
![Photo of Mindy Brodsky, MSW, LCSWA, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2f850ed-b5cb-44cb-9851-c609acff90ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindy Brodsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LGSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Waitlist for new clients
Limited Availability - I specialize in trauma-informed, strengths-based counseling with a passion for integrative health and healing. I serve diverse adolescent and adult populations, including those impacted by cancer and other chronic illness, as well as those who struggle with anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and other life transitions such as prenatal/postpartum support.
Limited Availability - I specialize in trauma-informed, strengths-based counseling with a passion for integrative health and healing. I serve diverse adolescent and adult populations, including those impacted by cancer and other chronic illness, as well as those who struggle with anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and other life transitions such as prenatal/postpartum support.
![Photo of Lynn Crothers, MA, LCMHCA, LMHCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dc085a1-4c9a-4ce3-a6fc-12e3f66b5baf/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lynn Crothers
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Tryon, NC 28782
I support adults navigating a variety of issues, including chronic pain and chronic illness, dissociative conditions, depression and grief, complex trauma, relationship challenges, searches for meaning, and family of origin concerns. If you have ever felt like an "outsider"—someone misunderstood or struggling to fit in—you'll find a home here. Trained in depth psychology, I am an ideal fit for anyone who is engaged in the process of self-understanding, curious about life, and seeking to be known. I believe the potential for deep healing, connection, and revitalization exists within this work.
I support adults navigating a variety of issues, including chronic pain and chronic illness, dissociative conditions, depression and grief, complex trauma, relationship challenges, searches for meaning, and family of origin concerns. If you have ever felt like an "outsider"—someone misunderstood or struggling to fit in—you'll find a home here. Trained in depth psychology, I am an ideal fit for anyone who is engaged in the process of self-understanding, curious about life, and seeking to be known. I believe the potential for deep healing, connection, and revitalization exists within this work.
![Photo of Anna Mulhollem, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84fb1182-c97c-4650-8654-3519ff256587/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Gisela Weimer, MA, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c347e919-02e7-412d-b894-a098208c2ede/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with motivated individuals seeking relief from chronic pain as well as reduced stress and anxiety in their personal lives or at work. Chronic pain conditions that I treat include but are not limited to neck and back pain, headaches, pelvic pain, IBS, tinnitus, and fibromyalgia.
I work with motivated individuals seeking relief from chronic pain as well as reduced stress and anxiety in their personal lives or at work. Chronic pain conditions that I treat include but are not limited to neck and back pain, headaches, pelvic pain, IBS, tinnitus, and fibromyalgia.
See more therapy options for North Carolina
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.