Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Lavelle Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
My specialties are: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief and loss, relationship problems, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD, child behavioral issues, child abuse victims, domestic abuse victims, bipolar disorder and stress management.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. Many years of experience counseling children, teens and adults. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. My experience includes working with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture from all over the world in a psychiatric hospital, outpatient clinic work, being a clinical supervisor, school based therapist work, counseling for military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
My specialties are: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief and loss, relationship problems, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD, child behavioral issues, child abuse victims, domestic abuse victims, bipolar disorder and stress management.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. Many years of experience counseling children, teens and adults. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. My experience includes working with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture from all over the world in a psychiatric hospital, outpatient clinic work, being a clinical supervisor, school based therapist work, counseling for military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
(828) 360-8820 View (828) 360-8820
Photo of Stacie Camp Bennett, PhD, LCMHCS, Counselor
Stacie Camp Bennett
Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Shelby, NC 28150
I am a sole practitioner who provides a safe, comfortable space for all individuals. I utilize a personalized approach to work with individuals, couples and families in finding their path to healthier mind, body and family dynamics. I work with individuals, couples and families suffering from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, postpartum depression, substance use disorders, career counseling, fertility issues, grief and loss, chronic pain and/or chronic illness like autoimmune disorders. My goal is to help all clients find their path and their voice in their lives. I can also utilize video appointments.
I am a sole practitioner who provides a safe, comfortable space for all individuals. I utilize a personalized approach to work with individuals, couples and families in finding their path to healthier mind, body and family dynamics. I work with individuals, couples and families suffering from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, postpartum depression, substance use disorders, career counseling, fertility issues, grief and loss, chronic pain and/or chronic illness like autoimmune disorders. My goal is to help all clients find their path and their voice in their lives. I can also utilize video appointments.
(980) 409-4360 View (980) 409-4360
Photo of Grace Parsley, MS, LCMHC-A, NCC, Counselor
Grace Parsley
Counselor, MS, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I’ve always found that authenticity is the only path to true connection. For those wanting support in transition(s), processing loss or trauma, living with chronic illness/disability, or simply unable to find your way forward; You deserve a counselor who will see you as a person first, not defined by your struggles but someone deserving of validation, support, and care. I pay close attention to the systems in which you are surrounded, the relationships that factor in your wellness, how the past informs the present, and the strengths you have within yourself to make a meaningful life.
I’ve always found that authenticity is the only path to true connection. For those wanting support in transition(s), processing loss or trauma, living with chronic illness/disability, or simply unable to find your way forward; You deserve a counselor who will see you as a person first, not defined by your struggles but someone deserving of validation, support, and care. I pay close attention to the systems in which you are surrounded, the relationships that factor in your wellness, how the past informs the present, and the strengths you have within yourself to make a meaningful life.
(828) 547-9064 View (828) 547-9064
Photo of Calah Huffines, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Calah Huffines
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
I have enjoyed working with folks that have experienced medical trauma and other sudden major life changes, chronic pain and illness, and substance use issues.
Hello and welcome! Here’s what you need to know about me: I received a Master of Arts from Appalachian State University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, concentrating in Addictions Counseling. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate and am working towards becoming a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate. What does all of that mean? I have the formal training to provide counseling. I also hold marginal identities that have led to my own lived experiences with counseling; I know how hard this work can be.
I have enjoyed working with folks that have experienced medical trauma and other sudden major life changes, chronic pain and illness, and substance use issues.
Hello and welcome! Here’s what you need to know about me: I received a Master of Arts from Appalachian State University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, concentrating in Addictions Counseling. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate and am working towards becoming a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate. What does all of that mean? I have the formal training to provide counseling. I also hold marginal identities that have led to my own lived experiences with counseling; I know how hard this work can be.
(336) 828-2609 View (336) 828-2609
Photo of Anne Mauldin, PhD, Psychologist
Anne Mauldin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
(252) 455-9998 View (252) 455-9998
Photo of Deidre Montgomery, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deidre Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/ pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/ pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
(336) 396-5798 View (336) 396-5798
Photo of Madalina Ochenatu, MS, CRC, LCMHCA, Counselor
Madalina Ochenatu
Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
Given my training in medicine, psychology, clinical rehabilitation & mental health, I espouse a holistic approach to help you best manage stress and chronic illness, process past trauma, and improve your QOL.
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.
Given my training in medicine, psychology, clinical rehabilitation & mental health, I espouse a holistic approach to help you best manage stress and chronic illness, process past trauma, and improve your QOL.
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 Pat Holsclaw, LCMHC, ATR, Counselor
Pat Holsclaw
Counselor, LCMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
I am a Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts Therapist and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. For more than 20 years, I have walked alongside Clients through Grief and Trauma in both Individual and Group Settings. I have experience working with all ages, although my focus currently is with Teen Girls and Women experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma, Medical Illness, Anger/Stress Management, and Life Transitions.
I am a Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts Therapist and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. For more than 20 years, I have walked alongside Clients through Grief and Trauma in both Individual and Group Settings. I have experience working with all ages, although my focus currently is with Teen Girls and Women experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma, Medical Illness, Anger/Stress Management, and Life Transitions.
(336) 490-9054 View (336) 490-9054
Photo of Becky Shaffer, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Becky Shaffer
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Life is not always easy, but I believe we all have the strength within us to grow, adapt, and heal. My goal is to create a safe space for you to uncover your own resilience and cultivate a sense of meaning and purpose in this life. I primarily work with adults of all ages facing a variety of concerns such as: anxiety, panic, mild-to-moderate depression, grief and loss, OCD, chronic and terminal physical illness, relational/family stressors, and difficulties related to addiction. I am able to integrate faith and spirituality into counseling if so desired.
Life is not always easy, but I believe we all have the strength within us to grow, adapt, and heal. My goal is to create a safe space for you to uncover your own resilience and cultivate a sense of meaning and purpose in this life. I primarily work with adults of all ages facing a variety of concerns such as: anxiety, panic, mild-to-moderate depression, grief and loss, OCD, chronic and terminal physical illness, relational/family stressors, and difficulties related to addiction. I am able to integrate faith and spirituality into counseling if so desired.
(919) 679-9515 View (919) 679-9515
Photo of Leslie Mulligan, MS,  EdS, LCPC, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Leslie Mulligan
Counselor, MS, EdS, LCPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517  (Online Only)
Anxiety; depression; grief; pain; mood disorientation, relationship, sleep and life changes; and work/life balance improve when honest and clear understanding is present and supported to change.
I am a creative humanist. As an experiential psychotherapist, I join with you in your life-in-process to support your self-awareness, healing, and growth. I engage with your whole person - body, mind, being - your unique "me". Life change, moods, relationships, work, health, recovery are my focus. Rather than lean into pathology, I value your intelligence, ways of expression, learning and strategies. Using facts, metaphor, lived experience, humor, honesty you'll see your own best way through. I tailor my tools to your person/couple/family's needs. You gain objective and compassionate insights, and new tools for thriving.
Anxiety; depression; grief; pain; mood disorientation, relationship, sleep and life changes; and work/life balance improve when honest and clear understanding is present and supported to change.
I am a creative humanist. As an experiential psychotherapist, I join with you in your life-in-process to support your self-awareness, healing, and growth. I engage with your whole person - body, mind, being - your unique "me". Life change, moods, relationships, work, health, recovery are my focus. Rather than lean into pathology, I value your intelligence, ways of expression, learning and strategies. Using facts, metaphor, lived experience, humor, honesty you'll see your own best way through. I tailor my tools to your person/couple/family's needs. You gain objective and compassionate insights, and new tools for thriving.
(207) 843-9672 View (207) 843-9672
Photo of Graciela Aires Rust, PhD, MS, LCMHC, CRC, IWLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Graciela Aires Rust
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LCMHC, CRC, IWLC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
An individual's mental, physical, social, emotional and spiritual dimensions are deeply intertwined. Consequently, and considering a person's multiple dimensions, I provide a holistic approach to mental health and well-being that enables me to see an individual as a complete being, which allows helping each client to achieve comprehensive results. I offer a warm, confidential and empathetic style of individual, family and group counseling providing modern and evidence-based practices of psychotherapy, as well as ancient healing modalities such as meditation and energy healing.
An individual's mental, physical, social, emotional and spiritual dimensions are deeply intertwined. Consequently, and considering a person's multiple dimensions, I provide a holistic approach to mental health and well-being that enables me to see an individual as a complete being, which allows helping each client to achieve comprehensive results. I offer a warm, confidential and empathetic style of individual, family and group counseling providing modern and evidence-based practices of psychotherapy, as well as ancient healing modalities such as meditation and energy healing.
(808) 518-3741 View (808) 518-3741
Photo of Patricia Ann Stewart, LCMHC, LPCC
Patricia Ann Stewart
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
Mishaps, uncontrollable circumstances, relationships, personal experiences, all contribute to our development. At any age or stage in life, stunted growth and development may occur. Finding the courage and trust to explore our inner selves is never easy. Finding the right person to help you through your journey can be equally challenging. If unconditional, nonjudgemental support is what you seek to help with your unique life challenges, I bring my best to help you. My therapeutic practice provides a safe, compassionate, fully supported, experience.
Mishaps, uncontrollable circumstances, relationships, personal experiences, all contribute to our development. At any age or stage in life, stunted growth and development may occur. Finding the courage and trust to explore our inner selves is never easy. Finding the right person to help you through your journey can be equally challenging. If unconditional, nonjudgemental support is what you seek to help with your unique life challenges, I bring my best to help you. My therapeutic practice provides a safe, compassionate, fully supported, experience.
(704) 741-1979 View (704) 741-1979
Photo of Kimberly A. (Vogel) Whalen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly A. (Vogel) Whalen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I obtained my undergraduate degree in Clinical Psychology and graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. My therapy approach is taken from an attachment theory and perspective. I believe humans are wired to feel connected, and that we all greatly benefit from healthy relationships. Without this connectedness, we may experience loneliness or isolation. I provide a safe, accepting space for individuals, couples, and families using a positive Existential Therapy Model to support self-awareness, meaningful relationships, and values of life.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I obtained my undergraduate degree in Clinical Psychology and graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. My therapy approach is taken from an attachment theory and perspective. I believe humans are wired to feel connected, and that we all greatly benefit from healthy relationships. Without this connectedness, we may experience loneliness or isolation. I provide a safe, accepting space for individuals, couples, and families using a positive Existential Therapy Model to support self-awareness, meaningful relationships, and values of life.
(704) 909-7018 View (704) 909-7018
Photo of Kirsten Newell, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, AAT-I
Kirsten Newell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, AAT-I
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I have always had an interest in not only how our minds, bodies, and spirits are connected, but also what takes place when an imbalance exists and then how to implore healing. I look at an individual through a holistic lens, and use this approach, when appropriate. A part of this holistic approach, I have the belief that as a part of the world and universe in which we live, that we are all, interconnected and operate as a part of a dynamic system. I am especially interested in how mindfulness practices, yoga, animals, and nature, might influence the ideas of acceptance and non-judgment, and overall, positively affect an individual.
I have always had an interest in not only how our minds, bodies, and spirits are connected, but also what takes place when an imbalance exists and then how to implore healing. I look at an individual through a holistic lens, and use this approach, when appropriate. A part of this holistic approach, I have the belief that as a part of the world and universe in which we live, that we are all, interconnected and operate as a part of a dynamic system. I am especially interested in how mindfulness practices, yoga, animals, and nature, might influence the ideas of acceptance and non-judgment, and overall, positively affect an individual.
(857) 816-7070 View (857) 816-7070
Photo of Loredana Pampinella - P & G Clinical Services, PhD, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
P & G Clinical Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226  (Online Only)
We are accepting new patients! Hablamos y ofrecemos servicios en Español. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural professional who has worked with abused children, adolescents, adults and their families who have experienced trauma. I have also worked with individuals with other mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, impulse control, addiction disorders, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.).
We are accepting new patients! Hablamos y ofrecemos servicios en Español. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural professional who has worked with abused children, adolescents, adults and their families who have experienced trauma. I have also worked with individuals with other mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, impulse control, addiction disorders, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.).
(704) 207-0995 View (704) 207-0995
Photo of Leisa Keisha Cook - Benevolent Counseling, PLLC, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Benevolent Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28303
I understand that many people suffer from anxiety and depression. When we ignore these issues it can have a negative impact on our daily lives. It can affect our personal relationships, the ability to deal with our work environment and prevent us from feeling good about ourselves. Nobody wants to experience this but many of us do and we often don't know how to deal with these feelings. If you're willing to take the first step and seek guidance there is a way to become better at navigating these issues. Sometimes all you need is someone to help show you the path to a better quality life.
I understand that many people suffer from anxiety and depression. When we ignore these issues it can have a negative impact on our daily lives. It can affect our personal relationships, the ability to deal with our work environment and prevent us from feeling good about ourselves. Nobody wants to experience this but many of us do and we often don't know how to deal with these feelings. If you're willing to take the first step and seek guidance there is a way to become better at navigating these issues. Sometimes all you need is someone to help show you the path to a better quality life.
(910) 635-0361 View (910) 635-0361
Photo of Shatara Sheppard, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Shatara Sheppard
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
Have you felt out of sync in life lately despite having done significant inner healing work? Do you find yourself stuck and unsure about how to move forward? It's common to experience these feelings, and we are here to provide the support and guidance you need. You deserve a safe, compassionate space to process your feelings and emotions without fear of judgment or backlash. We understand the importance of creating a nurturing environment where you can explore your inner world with honesty and vulnerability. You feel deeply, and this sometimes is a challenge in regulating your emotions effectively.
Have you felt out of sync in life lately despite having done significant inner healing work? Do you find yourself stuck and unsure about how to move forward? It's common to experience these feelings, and we are here to provide the support and guidance you need. You deserve a safe, compassionate space to process your feelings and emotions without fear of judgment or backlash. We understand the importance of creating a nurturing environment where you can explore your inner world with honesty and vulnerability. You feel deeply, and this sometimes is a challenge in regulating your emotions effectively.
(704) 981-6538 View (704) 981-6538
Photo of Dr. Terri Lynn Tilford, EdD, LCMHC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Terri Lynn Tilford
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
Even the strongest people need a little help to work through some of life's more challenging problems, and most of us have battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you are struggling with grief, anger, depression, or mismanagement, I am here to help as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). I specifically specialize in women's issues, Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), and issues that challenge young adults.
Even the strongest people need a little help to work through some of life's more challenging problems, and most of us have battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you are struggling with grief, anger, depression, or mismanagement, I am here to help as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). I specifically specialize in women's issues, Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), and issues that challenge young adults.
(704) 228-2844 View (704) 228-2844
Photo of Kerin E Cornett, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Kerin E Cornett
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Princeton, NC 27569
Navigating life's journey can be overwhelming. For over twenty years, it has been my privilege to meet people where they are and partner with them in difficult seasons. It is my experience that having someone to share your burdens can often provide healing and the courage to seek physical, mental, and spiritual wellness.
Navigating life's journey can be overwhelming. For over twenty years, it has been my privilege to meet people where they are and partner with them in difficult seasons. It is my experience that having someone to share your burdens can often provide healing and the courage to seek physical, mental, and spiritual wellness.
(919) 799-2265 View (919) 799-2265
Photo of Jennifer Morris, MAEd, LCMHC, CCTS-I
Jennifer Morris
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAEd, LCMHC, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
Lexington, NC 27292
Welcome! Every day we are faced with challenges that can be overwhelming and therapy can be a great way to re-center and have a private space to be honored and understood. I work with individuals ages 10-70 who struggle with unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, substance use as well as children struggling with family conflict and parenting challenges. I work to provide a personalized experience that empowers clients to improve their wellbeing through developing skills to improve relationships, increase connection, decrease negative stress responses and enhance spirituality.
Welcome! Every day we are faced with challenges that can be overwhelming and therapy can be a great way to re-center and have a private space to be honored and understood. I work with individuals ages 10-70 who struggle with unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, substance use as well as children struggling with family conflict and parenting challenges. I work to provide a personalized experience that empowers clients to improve their wellbeing through developing skills to improve relationships, increase connection, decrease negative stress responses and enhance spirituality.
(910) 713-1728 View (910) 713-1728
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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.