Therapists in Harris County, GA
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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Georgia below.Online Therapists
![Photo of Melissa Dickinson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fd6731d-8acf-423c-a950-b99f6b76b7ec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Dickinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30317
I have training in gender and sex therapy (kink/poly friendly) and work extensively with chronic illness support.
Therapy is a chance to cultivate a healthy relationship with a professional who will allow you to grow and explore new ways of being. I work with you to create a safe space, so that we can make real progress on the issues that matter to you.
I have training in gender and sex therapy (kink/poly friendly) and work extensively with chronic illness support.
Therapy is a chance to cultivate a healthy relationship with a professional who will allow you to grow and explore new ways of being. I work with you to create a safe space, so that we can make real progress on the issues that matter to you.
![Photo of Amariah Love, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc9c7b39-4072-4ade-bc42-a94ac2d325d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amariah Love
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30032
I specialize in working with clients struggling with identity, non-traditional relationships, and/or chronic illness/pain.
I am committed to creating an environment in which you can feel safe, heard, and understood. I start with understanding where you are now and the challenges you're facing. Together we'll put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. I offer an inclusive, safe space with in-person or virtual appointments to suit your schedule. Helping people improve their quality of life is my passion. It might mean learning to set boundaries, working through a loss or life transition, or helping you change a pattern of behavior that is keeping you stuck.
I specialize in working with clients struggling with identity, non-traditional relationships, and/or chronic illness/pain.
I am committed to creating an environment in which you can feel safe, heard, and understood. I start with understanding where you are now and the challenges you're facing. Together we'll put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. I offer an inclusive, safe space with in-person or virtual appointments to suit your schedule. Helping people improve their quality of life is my passion. It might mean learning to set boundaries, working through a loss or life transition, or helping you change a pattern of behavior that is keeping you stuck.
![Photo of Sarah Kate Guthrie, LAPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8795a1e-9f62-4875-81f2-6e4bc20bdfec/2/320x400.png)
I aim to assist clients in becoming the best version of themselves through techniques and perspectives as unique as they are. Clients that often seek my therapeutic alliance often come from diverse backgrounds, varied religious perspectives, and are members of the LGBTQIA+ Community. I strive to make a warm and welcoming environment for my clients to feel they can be as authentic and as vulnerable as they wish to be. My experience includes concerns such as ADHD, Anxiety & Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Type II, Gender Related Concerns, Chronic Illness/Pain, and many other topics less widely experienced.
I aim to assist clients in becoming the best version of themselves through techniques and perspectives as unique as they are. Clients that often seek my therapeutic alliance often come from diverse backgrounds, varied religious perspectives, and are members of the LGBTQIA+ Community. I strive to make a warm and welcoming environment for my clients to feel they can be as authentic and as vulnerable as they wish to be. My experience includes concerns such as ADHD, Anxiety & Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Type II, Gender Related Concerns, Chronic Illness/Pain, and many other topics less widely experienced.
![Photo of Dr. Hannah Warshowsky, PhD, MS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/793c2339-f1b5-426e-85b5-26f5f8dc8cb4/3/320x400.jpeg)
“And how do you feel about that!?” ---Says every TV comedy-bit depicting therapy. In reality, it can be intimidating to share our true feelings with another person- especially with a (virtual) stranger. In therapy sessions, I therefore create a warm, safe, empathetic, non-judgmental, space to unpack your story. I view you as an expert on yourself and will encourage you to honor your own inner wisdom. I value processing your unique context and how intersectional identities and structures of oppression contribute to your distress. My goal is to illuminate the root causes of your pain and to help guide you towards healing and growth.
“And how do you feel about that!?” ---Says every TV comedy-bit depicting therapy. In reality, it can be intimidating to share our true feelings with another person- especially with a (virtual) stranger. In therapy sessions, I therefore create a warm, safe, empathetic, non-judgmental, space to unpack your story. I view you as an expert on yourself and will encourage you to honor your own inner wisdom. I value processing your unique context and how intersectional identities and structures of oppression contribute to your distress. My goal is to illuminate the root causes of your pain and to help guide you towards healing and growth.
![Photo of Maureen A. Grady Morales, MA, LPC, SEP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42960afd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maureen A. Grady Morales
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
Currently featured in Atlanta Magazine, I can help you through a cutting edge neuropsychological approach to therapy. Emotional and physical pain are often interrelated. I am a trauma specialist who uses a combination of therapies to help you transform your life from not-so-good to great. I can help you calm the mind and the body, reducing anxiety laden symptoms. Advanced BrainSpotting, CBT, DBT, and Somatic Experiencing™ are tools that can really help move you forward from the inside out. Conveniently located in Buckhead and Brookhaven. Currently taking “Virtual” counseling patients through Zoom.
Currently featured in Atlanta Magazine, I can help you through a cutting edge neuropsychological approach to therapy. Emotional and physical pain are often interrelated. I am a trauma specialist who uses a combination of therapies to help you transform your life from not-so-good to great. I can help you calm the mind and the body, reducing anxiety laden symptoms. Advanced BrainSpotting, CBT, DBT, and Somatic Experiencing™ are tools that can really help move you forward from the inside out. Conveniently located in Buckhead and Brookhaven. Currently taking “Virtual” counseling patients through Zoom.
![Photo of Paige Hampton, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5035d942-dc3d-4e19-a201-3129fc6df534/1/320x400.jpeg)
Through compassionate listening, I strive to create a collaborative container where clients can relax in the freedom of non-judgment and supportive processing of pain, ultimately leading to a fuller life.
My ultimate joy as a therapist lies in helping others return to their core essence. Often, we feel lost in life due to traumatic experiences, transitions that shake our sense of identity, unhelpful social conditionings, or difficult relationship dynamics. Whether particular struggles present themselves as depression, anxiety, or PTSD, it is my goal to help clients discover the root cause of their suffering. In therapy with me, the client’s journey back to their core essence begins with a therapeutic foundation of a holistic, trauma-informed approach that addresses suffering from a culturally sensitive, body-spirit-mind lens.
Through compassionate listening, I strive to create a collaborative container where clients can relax in the freedom of non-judgment and supportive processing of pain, ultimately leading to a fuller life.
My ultimate joy as a therapist lies in helping others return to their core essence. Often, we feel lost in life due to traumatic experiences, transitions that shake our sense of identity, unhelpful social conditionings, or difficult relationship dynamics. Whether particular struggles present themselves as depression, anxiety, or PTSD, it is my goal to help clients discover the root cause of their suffering. In therapy with me, the client’s journey back to their core essence begins with a therapeutic foundation of a holistic, trauma-informed approach that addresses suffering from a culturally sensitive, body-spirit-mind lens.
![Photo of Donte M Randall - Randall & Randall Recovery Consultants, LLc, CADCII, MATS, CAMS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf42c678-5cab-40fc-b52a-9ecefac70092/1/320x400.jpeg)
Randall & Randall Recovery Consultants, LLc
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADCII, MATS, CAMS
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30076
We strongly support families and individuals that are affected by addiction and mental illness.
You have experienced something that has definitely caught your attention. You have found yourself in a sink or swim situation. Do you have a problem? Maybe, but for now you just want to find a way out. Once you do, maybe you will discover there is work to do. Maybe, there is something missing? How can one fill this void? How does one rid themselves of experiences they don't take the time to confront? Lets start the healing process.
We strongly support families and individuals that are affected by addiction and mental illness.
You have experienced something that has definitely caught your attention. You have found yourself in a sink or swim situation. Do you have a problem? Maybe, but for now you just want to find a way out. Once you do, maybe you will discover there is work to do. Maybe, there is something missing? How can one fill this void? How does one rid themselves of experiences they don't take the time to confront? Lets start the healing process.
![Photo of Melissa Lester, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1a15e5e-798b-43fa-8eec-ea0a92e56718/1/320x400.jpeg)
For 20 years, I have worked with adult women around issues of anxiety, stress, overwhelm, emotional eating, family of origin issues, LGBTQ issues (including coming out later in life), trauma resolution and more. Major life transitions such as loss, grieving, the aging process, chronic pain and chronic illness are additional areas of focus in my current work. My therapeutic approach combines psychodynamic and somatic approaches from a feminist theory perspective. My expertise includes several evidence-based Somatic and body-based trauma resolution methods, Tapping/acupressure, Progressive Counting, Hypnosis, Meditation and more.
For 20 years, I have worked with adult women around issues of anxiety, stress, overwhelm, emotional eating, family of origin issues, LGBTQ issues (including coming out later in life), trauma resolution and more. Major life transitions such as loss, grieving, the aging process, chronic pain and chronic illness are additional areas of focus in my current work. My therapeutic approach combines psychodynamic and somatic approaches from a feminist theory perspective. My expertise includes several evidence-based Somatic and body-based trauma resolution methods, Tapping/acupressure, Progressive Counting, Hypnosis, Meditation and more.
![Photo of Sarah Evers, APC, CRC, NCC, MS, MPH, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/364ad689-3c81-43e9-b082-f1e3fa895d88/1/320x400.jpeg)
As our lives unfold we all pass through hardships. Some transitions are so hard that we are rattled to the core. When our hearts are breaking open, the pain can be so blinding that we can't fathom how we'll possibly survive. We may encounter anxiety, stress & distress that is alarming & fatiguing. You may feel as though you've lost track of yourself and who you are in the world. You may feel completely alone and unknowable to even those that are closest to you. I invite you to come sit with me. Let me offer you support by tuning in to who you are, joining with you in the experience you are navigating, with undivided attention.
As our lives unfold we all pass through hardships. Some transitions are so hard that we are rattled to the core. When our hearts are breaking open, the pain can be so blinding that we can't fathom how we'll possibly survive. We may encounter anxiety, stress & distress that is alarming & fatiguing. You may feel as though you've lost track of yourself and who you are in the world. You may feel completely alone and unknowable to even those that are closest to you. I invite you to come sit with me. Let me offer you support by tuning in to who you are, joining with you in the experience you are navigating, with undivided attention.
![Photo of Amy Wagner, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c9b1eb7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Wagner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Carrollton, GA 30117 (Online Only)
You are not what happens to you. Crisis, transition, and past suffering can be overwhelming, and are even more so when you try to navigate them alone. You may find that now you are dealing with chronic fatigue, chronic pain, brain fog, and more. Therapy is an invitation to step into a safe and nurturing environment to explore and resolve difficult challenges in your life. With safety and presence, tending to and healing past wounds is possible. The things that have happened to you can become one part of your legacy, not the biggest part. You are not your suffering, you are so much more than that.
You are not what happens to you. Crisis, transition, and past suffering can be overwhelming, and are even more so when you try to navigate them alone. You may find that now you are dealing with chronic fatigue, chronic pain, brain fog, and more. Therapy is an invitation to step into a safe and nurturing environment to explore and resolve difficult challenges in your life. With safety and presence, tending to and healing past wounds is possible. The things that have happened to you can become one part of your legacy, not the biggest part. You are not your suffering, you are so much more than that.
![Photo of Dakota Jack Fidram, APC, NCC, MS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53916877-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Here are some of the areas I am passionate about serving: identity exploration, LGBTQ+, chronic disability/ invisible illness, polyamorous relationships, existential questions.
My name is Dakota and I provide teletherapy in both the states of Georgia and Florida -- Finding our way through life’s journey can become overwhelming at times. We may reach stages where we feel out-of-touch, out-of-place, and out-of-sync. One method of addressing these bumps on our path is recalibrating how we understand ourselves and others. Learning new ways of handling and adapting to all of life’s changes can be revitalizing. I would be excited to be there with you on your path as a co-journeyer and as a provider of objective, researched-based counseling.
Here are some of the areas I am passionate about serving: identity exploration, LGBTQ+, chronic disability/ invisible illness, polyamorous relationships, existential questions.
My name is Dakota and I provide teletherapy in both the states of Georgia and Florida -- Finding our way through life’s journey can become overwhelming at times. We may reach stages where we feel out-of-touch, out-of-place, and out-of-sync. One method of addressing these bumps on our path is recalibrating how we understand ourselves and others. Learning new ways of handling and adapting to all of life’s changes can be revitalizing. I would be excited to be there with you on your path as a co-journeyer and as a provider of objective, researched-based counseling.
![Photo of Turnmeika Smith, LPC, CCTS-I, CMAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d758c31-4e2b-4a55-8d11-39260b8bdfcc/1/320x400.png)
Turnmeika Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTS-I, CMAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30308
Throughout life's journey, many people will or may have encountered some form of trauma, abuse, hurt, or pain. If that’s you, I want you also to know that it’s been me too. You’re Not Alone! I am passionate about working with Teens And Adults. I speak trauma, truth, and transparency. Allow me to walk with you along the journey and assist you in living and no longer existing.
Throughout life's journey, many people will or may have encountered some form of trauma, abuse, hurt, or pain. If that’s you, I want you also to know that it’s been me too. You’re Not Alone! I am passionate about working with Teens And Adults. I speak trauma, truth, and transparency. Allow me to walk with you along the journey and assist you in living and no longer existing.
![Photo of Deborah Silver, DMin, Fellow, AAPC, Pastoral Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3beae1e3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Silver
Pastoral Counselor, DMin, Fellow, AAPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030 (Online Only)
Many of my clients face life transitions, traumas, anxiety and depression, loss and grief, and spiritual crises, or the pain of a troubled relationship.
As an Episcopal priest with a Doctor of Ministry degree in pastoral counseling, I have been in practice since 1985. I am a clinical Fellow in the American Association of Pastoral Counselors, extensively trained and experienced in individual depth psychotherapy and in working with couples, families and groups. My particular gift is in establishing a a therapeutic space where individual men and women, as well as adolescents and young adults, who are in pain or under stress, can feel safe and understood. Regardless of our faith, I believe we are all on a journey of healing and growth.
Many of my clients face life transitions, traumas, anxiety and depression, loss and grief, and spiritual crises, or the pain of a troubled relationship.
As an Episcopal priest with a Doctor of Ministry degree in pastoral counseling, I have been in practice since 1985. I am a clinical Fellow in the American Association of Pastoral Counselors, extensively trained and experienced in individual depth psychotherapy and in working with couples, families and groups. My particular gift is in establishing a a therapeutic space where individual men and women, as well as adolescents and young adults, who are in pain or under stress, can feel safe and understood. Regardless of our faith, I believe we are all on a journey of healing and growth.
![Photo of Scott McCormick, LMSW, CTP, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8799a36d-55f2-4767-97f0-6a1f3cd74d94/1/320x400.png)
Scott McCormick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, GA 31909 (Online Only)
So often, our symptoms cause us to resent ourselves or resent the parts of ourselves that are causing pain.
I am here to help with trauma! Do you struggle with feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt, emotional control, connection with others, or chronic relationship issues? These may be signs of complex PTSD, and EMDR could help. I specialize in trauma-focused therapy for adults with histories of anxiety, relationship issues, and depression. I also have experience working with dissociative symptoms, anger, and self-esteem issues.
So often, our symptoms cause us to resent ourselves or resent the parts of ourselves that are causing pain.
I am here to help with trauma! Do you struggle with feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt, emotional control, connection with others, or chronic relationship issues? These may be signs of complex PTSD, and EMDR could help. I specialize in trauma-focused therapy for adults with histories of anxiety, relationship issues, and depression. I also have experience working with dissociative symptoms, anger, and self-esteem issues.
![Photo of Rebecca Short, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2523ccb-df9b-4123-b363-52c7e6746901/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Short
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Columbus, GA 31901 (Online Only)
I also have a special connection with those experiencing grief, facing terminal illness, those involved in caregiving of family members, and those coping with chronic pain in their own lives, especially fibromyalgia.
My ideal client is you. You are on a journey of self-discovery and healing that has led you to this site and my profile. You are courageous, brave, and determined to make meaning in your life. You are tired of hurting. You are looking for someone to accompany you on this journey who understands what it’s like to be in your shoes and honors that knowledge with empathy and respect. It would be a privilege to be that person to accompany you.
I also have a special connection with those experiencing grief, facing terminal illness, those involved in caregiving of family members, and those coping with chronic pain in their own lives, especially fibromyalgia.
My ideal client is you. You are on a journey of self-discovery and healing that has led you to this site and my profile. You are courageous, brave, and determined to make meaning in your life. You are tired of hurting. You are looking for someone to accompany you on this journey who understands what it’s like to be in your shoes and honors that knowledge with empathy and respect. It would be a privilege to be that person to accompany you.
![Photo of Steph Laney, MS, APC, NCC, CPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b934e4d3-3d95-4ba0-8cc4-be090384eb01/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in a different kind of therapy, a holistic kind of therapy where mental health care isn't just mental; therapy that takes into account your past, present, and future; that holds space for every single part of you and your experiences. I specialize in trauma, anxiety and depression, chronic illness, disordered eating, LGBTQ+ issues, and, most of all, helping clients find holistic and embodied healing. I aim to partner you on the journey to finding more inner stability, empowerment, more fulfilling connections with others, and a greater sense of your own worth.
I believe in a different kind of therapy, a holistic kind of therapy where mental health care isn't just mental; therapy that takes into account your past, present, and future; that holds space for every single part of you and your experiences. I specialize in trauma, anxiety and depression, chronic illness, disordered eating, LGBTQ+ issues, and, most of all, helping clients find holistic and embodied healing. I aim to partner you on the journey to finding more inner stability, empowerment, more fulfilling connections with others, and a greater sense of your own worth.
![Photo of Tzipporah Gerson-Miller, LCSW, C-IAYT, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88ce121f-1124-41c9-a20a-92d71ad8b314/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tzipporah Gerson-Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-IAYT, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I believe that self-awareness is one of the core pillars that aid in the alleviation of suffering. The simplest of lifestyle changes can create immense improvements in the quality of one’s life. Establishing a safe and trusting relationship with a therapist, can relieve psychological and physical imbalances, as well as uncover the unhealthy habits, patterns, and behaviors that lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, and chronic pain. My practice focuses on the specific needs of women and girls throughout the lifespan.
I believe that self-awareness is one of the core pillars that aid in the alleviation of suffering. The simplest of lifestyle changes can create immense improvements in the quality of one’s life. Establishing a safe and trusting relationship with a therapist, can relieve psychological and physical imbalances, as well as uncover the unhealthy habits, patterns, and behaviors that lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, and chronic pain. My practice focuses on the specific needs of women and girls throughout the lifespan.
![Photo of Madeline Nissa Altabe - Radiance Counseling & Consulting PL, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4874f929-c584-4f1d-a2e7-0fd3fc0ec95a/2/320x400.jpeg)
For the past 10 I have also worked with individuals coping with chronic illness themselves or within their families.
It is not easy to grow through times of difficulty, but it is possible. I look forward to working with you on your goals!
For the past 10 I have also worked with individuals coping with chronic illness themselves or within their families.
It is not easy to grow through times of difficulty, but it is possible. I look forward to working with you on your goals!
![Photo of Heather Romero, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTS-I, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54a7634f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Romero
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30076 (Online Only)
Are you longing for genuine connection and inner peace? Struggling to break free from the past amidst the daily chaos, mental fog, and overwhelming emotions? In a complex world, achieving a fulfilling life can seem out of reach. But envision feeling empowered, deeply at peace, and aligned with your true desires. Imagine authentic connections and a clear sense of purpose. Your inner world is filled with compassion for your present and past self. Old wounds do not have the same power over you. You are free to enjoy the present moment. Thoughts of the future bring hope and optimism, not dread or fear.
Are you longing for genuine connection and inner peace? Struggling to break free from the past amidst the daily chaos, mental fog, and overwhelming emotions? In a complex world, achieving a fulfilling life can seem out of reach. But envision feeling empowered, deeply at peace, and aligned with your true desires. Imagine authentic connections and a clear sense of purpose. Your inner world is filled with compassion for your present and past self. Old wounds do not have the same power over you. You are free to enjoy the present moment. Thoughts of the future bring hope and optimism, not dread or fear.
![Photo of Regina M Osime - Thrive Mode Counseling and Well-being Enhancement, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32eed7dc-05ca-4b82-aa85-68982cee2c3f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thrive Mode Counseling and Well-being Enhancement
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080 (Online Only)
Congratulations on prioritizing your health and well-being during these challenging times. Are you struggling with stress, or finding meaning and purpose in life? You are likely seeking a therapist who respects your unique journey and who can help you to build upon the resilience you already possess. I started Thrive Mode Counseling to offer you a nonjudgmental space to reflect, heal and build self-awareness. My holistic therapeutic approach addresses both the mind and body so that you can reach new levels of happiness and satisfaction that will affect your work, play, relationships, and health well into the future.
Congratulations on prioritizing your health and well-being during these challenging times. Are you struggling with stress, or finding meaning and purpose in life? You are likely seeking a therapist who respects your unique journey and who can help you to build upon the resilience you already possess. I started Thrive Mode Counseling to offer you a nonjudgmental space to reflect, heal and build self-awareness. My holistic therapeutic approach addresses both the mind and body so that you can reach new levels of happiness and satisfaction that will affect your work, play, relationships, and health well into the future.
See more therapy options for Harris 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.