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Online Therapists

Photo of Balanced Living Counseling Center - Balanced Living Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor
Balanced Living Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rome, GA 30161
During the current crisis that is causing so much pain and confusion for everyone, we have opened extended hours to help our clients find the appointment time they need.
At Balanced Living Psychotherapy and Wellness, we are 100% committed to creating an environment that focuses on you. We are a group practice that has numerous clinicians with a variety of specialties that we can suit towards our clients needs. Our clinicians are seasoned counselors, and our committed to helping our clients on their journey. We offer same day, next day appointments, when available. Our practice accepts most insurance plans, and we can offer our clients an experience unique in NW Georgia.
During the current crisis that is causing so much pain and confusion for everyone, we have opened extended hours to help our clients find the appointment time they need.
At Balanced Living Psychotherapy and Wellness, we are 100% committed to creating an environment that focuses on you. We are a group practice that has numerous clinicians with a variety of specialties that we can suit towards our clients needs. Our clinicians are seasoned counselors, and our committed to helping our clients on their journey. We offer same day, next day appointments, when available. Our practice accepts most insurance plans, and we can offer our clients an experience unique in NW Georgia.
(762) 225-9228 View (762) 225-9228
Photo of Donte M Randall - Randall & Randall Recovery Consultants, LLc, CADCII, MATS, CAMS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
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.
(770) 809-6595 View (770) 809-6595
Photo of Turnmeika Smith, LPC, CCTS-I, CMAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Turnmeika Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTS-I, CMAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Riverdale, GA 30296
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.
(470) 468-2837 View (470) 468-2837
Photo of Elizabeth Buhler Evans - Avenues of Life Counseling & Coaching, Counsel, Speaker, Coach, Author, RN, Pastoral Counselor
Avenues of Life Counseling & Coaching
Pastoral Counselor, Counsel, Speaker, Coach, Author, RN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gainesville, GA 30501
Your pain is not too big for the power of God's amazing grace and forgiveness.
I am a Christian Counselor & Therapist, who works with not only you and your spouse, but with your whole family. Many times the chains in our families are carried down through generations and I am here to help you to be free. There may be deeply rooted anger, addictions, favoritism, jealousy, anxiety and depression, just to mention a few. You will be better able to serve God as you are freed from this weight. Whether it be marital or individual, "We meet you right where you are!"
Your pain is not too big for the power of God's amazing grace and forgiveness.
I am a Christian Counselor & Therapist, who works with not only you and your spouse, but with your whole family. Many times the chains in our families are carried down through generations and I am here to help you to be free. There may be deeply rooted anger, addictions, favoritism, jealousy, anxiety and depression, just to mention a few. You will be better able to serve God as you are freed from this weight. Whether it be marital or individual, "We meet you right where you are!"
(404) 620-2004 View (404) 620-2004
Photo of Rich Williams: Board Certified Hypnotherapist, CHT, NLP, LMT, CNMT
Rich Williams: Board Certified Hypnotherapist
CHT, NLP, LMT, CNMT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
My areas of expertise are anxiety disorders, pain management, depression, trauma recovery, PTSD/C-PTSD, ADHD, NLP, CBT, EFT, PLR, and alternative/energy medicine.
Are you feeling lost or stuck? I am passionate about making a real lasting difference in your life, and inspiring you to develop tools to move towards your goals in a flexible, gentle and supportive way. I approach the mind/body from an integrative and holistic point of view that combines eastern, western and energy medicine philosophies; my experience has shown that when this approach is used strategically you may heal the root causes and find deeply profound transformational healing. My goal is to help with any physical, mental, or emotional imbalance that may come up so that you can get back to living and loving life!
My areas of expertise are anxiety disorders, pain management, depression, trauma recovery, PTSD/C-PTSD, ADHD, NLP, CBT, EFT, PLR, and alternative/energy medicine.
Are you feeling lost or stuck? I am passionate about making a real lasting difference in your life, and inspiring you to develop tools to move towards your goals in a flexible, gentle and supportive way. I approach the mind/body from an integrative and holistic point of view that combines eastern, western and energy medicine philosophies; my experience has shown that when this approach is used strategically you may heal the root causes and find deeply profound transformational healing. My goal is to help with any physical, mental, or emotional imbalance that may come up so that you can get back to living and loving life!
(770) 525-9112 View (770) 525-9112
Photo of Brad Terrell Tedford, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brad Terrell Tedford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30009
I'm excited to join you on the journey to a more positive future. Everyone has the power to overcome adversity and be their best self. I approach therapy as a collaborator to those struggling to find their path. Successful therapy is different for everyone. I individualize therapy for your unique personality and special challenges. I will teach you tools to better prepare for the daily challenges of life. We will achieve insight into your feelings and experiences and set goals together in a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can be your true self. I'm seeing clients in Alpharetta and in Savannah, GA.
I'm excited to join you on the journey to a more positive future. Everyone has the power to overcome adversity and be their best self. I approach therapy as a collaborator to those struggling to find their path. Successful therapy is different for everyone. I individualize therapy for your unique personality and special challenges. I will teach you tools to better prepare for the daily challenges of life. We will achieve insight into your feelings and experiences and set goals together in a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can be your true self. I'm seeing clients in Alpharetta and in Savannah, GA.
(678) 680-5390 View (678) 680-5390
Photo of Amanda Mayo, BS, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Mayo
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
Amanda offers a unique person-centered, trauma-informed approach to therapy which guides individuals to their own path to happiness. Her philosophy emphasizes the importance of individual trauma, and how it plays out in the client’s world today. The eclectic combination of Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, EMDR, reality based, solution focused and psychoeducation therapy interventions allow her to serve adolescents, adults, couples, and groups in a variety of mental health-related areas.
Amanda offers a unique person-centered, trauma-informed approach to therapy which guides individuals to their own path to happiness. Her philosophy emphasizes the importance of individual trauma, and how it plays out in the client’s world today. The eclectic combination of Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, EMDR, reality based, solution focused and psychoeducation therapy interventions allow her to serve adolescents, adults, couples, and groups in a variety of mental health-related areas.
(678) 263-7301 View (678) 263-7301
Photo of Mary Elizabeth Ebinger - Attento Counseling Practice, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Attento Counseling Practice
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
*Request an Appointment Here https://attentocounseling.com/request-an-appointment/ *Attento Counseling is an outpatient behavioral health provider with 3 locations and over 60 licensed clinicians in the north Atlanta metro area (Marietta, Cumming, and Kennesaw). We also offer an affordable, accessible sliding-scale option for clients in need through our Mental Wellness & Emotional Learning program. Visit mwel.net for more information.
*Request an Appointment Here https://attentocounseling.com/request-an-appointment/ *Attento Counseling is an outpatient behavioral health provider with 3 locations and over 60 licensed clinicians in the north Atlanta metro area (Marietta, Cumming, and Kennesaw). We also offer an affordable, accessible sliding-scale option for clients in need through our Mental Wellness & Emotional Learning program. Visit mwel.net for more information.
(404) 383-6944 View (404) 383-6944
Photo of Travis Sanderson, MS, CMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Travis Sanderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Blue Ridge, GA 30513  (Online Only)
Travis believes in a healthy therapeutic relationship built on trust to help individuals and families achieve their goals. He has specialization in clinical psychology, children and adolescents, substance, Couples and Families, Depression and Anxiety, Behavioral issues, Addiction, trauma, outdoor recreation, and mental health counseling. As a mental health counselor, it has always been my privilege to work alongside clients on their personal journeys. Each individual has such a personal experience in which their life has been based. I believe in meeting clients where they are at, working toward personal goals, and ultimately developing a life in which they feel they can thrive.
Travis believes in a healthy therapeutic relationship built on trust to help individuals and families achieve their goals. He has specialization in clinical psychology, children and adolescents, substance, Couples and Families, Depression and Anxiety, Behavioral issues, Addiction, trauma, outdoor recreation, and mental health counseling. As a mental health counselor, it has always been my privilege to work alongside clients on their personal journeys. Each individual has such a personal experience in which their life has been based. I believe in meeting clients where they are at, working toward personal goals, and ultimately developing a life in which they feel they can thrive.
(801) 797-3679 View (801) 797-3679
Photo of Heather R Hayes - Heather R Hayes & Associates, LPC, CAI, CIP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather R Hayes & Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAI, CIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30041
Heather Hayes & Associates is your trusted ally for navigating the complex world of treatment and recovery options for substance abuse, mental health issues, and process addictions. The Heather R. Hayes team offers a concierge approach to care management, tailoring our services to meet the needs of the behavioral health professionals, organizations, and families we serve. The HRH team offers intervention and case management services, treatment placement, sober/therapeutic transportation, sober/therapeutic companionship, and in office consults for families struggling with mental health, trauma, eating disorders, and addiction.
Heather Hayes & Associates is your trusted ally for navigating the complex world of treatment and recovery options for substance abuse, mental health issues, and process addictions. The Heather R. Hayes team offers a concierge approach to care management, tailoring our services to meet the needs of the behavioral health professionals, organizations, and families we serve. The HRH team offers intervention and case management services, treatment placement, sober/therapeutic transportation, sober/therapeutic companionship, and in office consults for families struggling with mental health, trauma, eating disorders, and addiction.
(470) 281-3423 View (470) 281-3423
Photo of Terell Irwin Tepper, LPC, NCC, CAMS II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terell Irwin Tepper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAMS II
Verified Verified
The Populations I have had Experience working with include but are not limited to: Adolescents and Teens: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, ODD, Anger Challenges, Challenges with Compliance to Rules, Probation/Legal Involvement, Trauma 2. Athletes: Performance Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Communication Challenges, mood swings, Trauma 3. Adults: Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis, Trauma, Grief, Addiction, Impulse Control, Couples, Families, LGBTQ+
The Populations I have had Experience working with include but are not limited to: Adolescents and Teens: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, ODD, Anger Challenges, Challenges with Compliance to Rules, Probation/Legal Involvement, Trauma 2. Athletes: Performance Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Communication Challenges, mood swings, Trauma 3. Adults: Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis, Trauma, Grief, Addiction, Impulse Control, Couples, Families, LGBTQ+
(678) 400-0546 View (678) 400-0546
Photo of Ceillia Bagley - Ceillia with The Counseling Group LLC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ceillia with The Counseling Group LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30041
Cecilla studied and graduated in psychology in her native country of Peru. After immigrating to the USA, she has earned a bachelor's degree in Psychology. She has completed AMO academy's required training and evaluation and was awarded the title of Master Hypnotherapist certification. Currently, Cecilla is pursuing her master's degree in Clinical Psychology. She believes in focusing on guiding the client to find the root cause of the mental difficulties and working together to meet desired goals.
Cecilla studied and graduated in psychology in her native country of Peru. After immigrating to the USA, she has earned a bachelor's degree in Psychology. She has completed AMO academy's required training and evaluation and was awarded the title of Master Hypnotherapist certification. Currently, Cecilla is pursuing her master's degree in Clinical Psychology. She believes in focusing on guiding the client to find the root cause of the mental difficulties and working together to meet desired goals.
(770) 749-7157 View (770) 749-7157
Photo of Carlos Amos, Carlos, Amos, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carlos Amos
Licensed Professional Counselor, Carlos, Amos, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305  (Online Only)
Feeling down? Feeling anxious? Isolating? No support? Relationship problems? Frustrated at work or with family? Drinking too much? Lack of motivation? Overwhelmed with daily life? Not eating and sleeping well? Unresolved trauma? Let's talk and get you back on track! I provide teletherapy services to clients based in Georgia. I have over 10 years of professional mental health experience and I have worked with a variety of populations in various clinical settings. If you have made it to my profile, I want to commend you for taking the first step in the direction of healing.
Feeling down? Feeling anxious? Isolating? No support? Relationship problems? Frustrated at work or with family? Drinking too much? Lack of motivation? Overwhelmed with daily life? Not eating and sleeping well? Unresolved trauma? Let's talk and get you back on track! I provide teletherapy services to clients based in Georgia. I have over 10 years of professional mental health experience and I have worked with a variety of populations in various clinical settings. If you have made it to my profile, I want to commend you for taking the first step in the direction of healing.
(470) 431-4600 View (470) 431-4600
Photo of Michael E Stoneking, PhD, MA, LMFT
Michael E Stoneking
PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30341
I DO NOT CHARGE A FEE FOR ANY OF MY SERVICES; donations are appreciated with no expectations . I am well experienced in all areas of Counseling ,. Treatment is individualized and structured for your specific issue The client and myself together develops an individualized plan. I work by listening, hearing and helping my client gain a deeper understanding of obstacles, which are causing repeating patterns of negative behavior,and how to overcome struggles. My clients find me engaging and sensitive to their issues. Phone sessions and E-life advisement for those too busy , or desiring anonymity !
I DO NOT CHARGE A FEE FOR ANY OF MY SERVICES; donations are appreciated with no expectations . I am well experienced in all areas of Counseling ,. Treatment is individualized and structured for your specific issue The client and myself together develops an individualized plan. I work by listening, hearing and helping my client gain a deeper understanding of obstacles, which are causing repeating patterns of negative behavior,and how to overcome struggles. My clients find me engaging and sensitive to their issues. Phone sessions and E-life advisement for those too busy , or desiring anonymity !
(404) 500-8652 View (404) 500-8652
Photo of Debbie Weitz, EdS, NCC, APC, Counselor
Debbie Weitz
Counselor, EdS, NCC, APC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennesaw, GA 30152
Debbie Weitz is an Associate Professional Therapist who hails from Marietta, Georgia. She received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Georgia, and earned both her Master of Science and Specialist in Education degrees from the Florida State University. She also completed a PK-12 Professional School Counseling Post-Graduate Certificate from Mercer University. Throughout her career, Debbie has served as a Mock Interview Mentor, University Career Center Advisor, University Co-Instructor, School Counselor, and Associate Professional Counselor within Private Practice.
Debbie Weitz is an Associate Professional Therapist who hails from Marietta, Georgia. She received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Georgia, and earned both her Master of Science and Specialist in Education degrees from the Florida State University. She also completed a PK-12 Professional School Counseling Post-Graduate Certificate from Mercer University. Throughout her career, Debbie has served as a Mock Interview Mentor, University Career Center Advisor, University Co-Instructor, School Counselor, and Associate Professional Counselor within Private Practice.
(678) 509-6440 View (678) 509-6440
Photo of Charles Mixson Harris - Birmingham Family Counseling and Mediation Center, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Birmingham Family Counseling and Mediation Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30304
Currently Accepting New Clients. Perhaps you are a parent, struggling to find help for your child or teen who is dealing with behavioral or emotional concerns? Maybe you are an individual who is struggling with sadness, hopelessness, stress or anxiety. At Birmingham Family Counseling, we strive to provide inclusive, individualized care to support those who may be dealing with difficulty in life. We are here to support you through this time.
Currently Accepting New Clients. Perhaps you are a parent, struggling to find help for your child or teen who is dealing with behavioral or emotional concerns? Maybe you are an individual who is struggling with sadness, hopelessness, stress or anxiety. At Birmingham Family Counseling, we strive to provide inclusive, individualized care to support those who may be dealing with difficulty in life. We are here to support you through this time.
(205) 635-7880 View (205) 635-7880
Photo of April A Brewer - Stonecrest Integrated Wellness, LLC, DBH, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stonecrest Integrated Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30039  (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Dr. April Brewer and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC (Georgia & Virginia). I have gained a diverse professional experience as a U.S. Air Force Medic (Active Duty), Psychometrician (U.S. Navy Civilian), DUI & Drug Court Counselor, Mental Health Therapist (Veterans Affairs Medical Center), Behavioral Health Treatment Court Coordinator/Mental Health Clinician (Superior & State Court), Military & Family Life Counselor on DOD installations, & Private Practice providing individual, couples, family, psycho-education, & consultation services for individuals of all ages. I believe in taking an eclectic approach to meet your unique needs by providing virtual counseling & coaching
Hello, My name is Dr. April Brewer and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC (Georgia & Virginia). I have gained a diverse professional experience as a U.S. Air Force Medic (Active Duty), Psychometrician (U.S. Navy Civilian), DUI & Drug Court Counselor, Mental Health Therapist (Veterans Affairs Medical Center), Behavioral Health Treatment Court Coordinator/Mental Health Clinician (Superior & State Court), Military & Family Life Counselor on DOD installations, & Private Practice providing individual, couples, family, psycho-education, & consultation services for individuals of all ages. I believe in taking an eclectic approach to meet your unique needs by providing virtual counseling & coaching
(470) 558-0523 View (470) 558-0523
Photo of Skye McIntyre - SkyeHelps Counseling & Wellness - Skye, MS, NCC, LPC, CPCS, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
SkyeHelps Counseling & Wellness - Skye
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CPCS, EMDR
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Dahlonega, GA 30533
Skye McIntyre is a trauma therapist who focuses on working with adults and couples. She enjoys helping people develop relationships between their True Self and parts that were created in childhood. Skye utilizes Person-Centered Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She is Internal Family Systems informed and EMDR certified. Skye has developed her own therapeutic tool: The Tree. Skye is available Monday through Thursday for online and in-person appointments at the SkyeHelps office in Dahlonega, Georgia.
Skye McIntyre is a trauma therapist who focuses on working with adults and couples. She enjoys helping people develop relationships between their True Self and parts that were created in childhood. Skye utilizes Person-Centered Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She is Internal Family Systems informed and EMDR certified. Skye has developed her own therapeutic tool: The Tree. Skye is available Monday through Thursday for online and in-person appointments at the SkyeHelps office in Dahlonega, Georgia.
(706) 979-2344 View (706) 979-2344
Photo of Dr. Tonya Sumner Brown Queen Of Hearts, PsyD, MDiv, LPC, CPCS, DVISII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Tonya Sumner Brown Queen Of Hearts
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MDiv, LPC, CPCS, DVISII
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
I have 32 years of counseling experience. I blend Spiritual (when requested) and Clinical Counseling. Many spiritual people across America are confused about where to go for counseling. My husband of 30 years and I have traveled the world with many religions. I have 2 Bachelors, 2 Master of Divinity Degrees, a Post-Masters in Hospital & Hospice Chaplaincy, and a PsyD. in Psychology. I was a Chaplain intern, resident or taught religious programs at many Atlanta hospitals. I am a HIV/AIDS, cancer and bereavement specialist. I bring a multiplicity of clinical specialties and counseling modalities to my clients from 2 and up.
I have 32 years of counseling experience. I blend Spiritual (when requested) and Clinical Counseling. Many spiritual people across America are confused about where to go for counseling. My husband of 30 years and I have traveled the world with many religions. I have 2 Bachelors, 2 Master of Divinity Degrees, a Post-Masters in Hospital & Hospice Chaplaincy, and a PsyD. in Psychology. I was a Chaplain intern, resident or taught religious programs at many Atlanta hospitals. I am a HIV/AIDS, cancer and bereavement specialist. I bring a multiplicity of clinical specialties and counseling modalities to my clients from 2 and up.
(404) 800-3044 View (404) 800-3044
Photo of Celeste Calvert, MA, NCC, APC, Counselor
Celeste Calvert
Counselor, MA, NCC, APC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30009
Celeste has a holistic & systemic approach to therapy with the goal of helping clients achieve mental and physical wellness. She believes strongly in incorporating the client’s beliefs, value systems, and cultural identity into therapy. Celeste received her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a certificate in Marriage & Family Therapy from Richmont Graduate University. Celeste has also pursued training through the Gottman Institute and Prepare/Enrich to facilitate her work with couples. Additionally, Celeste is trained in EMDR, a therapeutic technique designed to help people struggling to process trauma.
Celeste has a holistic & systemic approach to therapy with the goal of helping clients achieve mental and physical wellness. She believes strongly in incorporating the client’s beliefs, value systems, and cultural identity into therapy. Celeste received her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a certificate in Marriage & Family Therapy from Richmont Graduate University. Celeste has also pursued training through the Gottman Institute and Prepare/Enrich to facilitate her work with couples. Additionally, Celeste is trained in EMDR, a therapeutic technique designed to help people struggling to process trauma.
(470) 999-7639 View (470) 999-7639

See more therapy options for Polk 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.