Chronic Pain Therapists in Asheville, NC

Photo of Joyce Hones, LCMHCA, RYT200, Counselor
Joyce Hones
Counselor, LCMHCA, RYT200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Have you been experiencing pain that interferes with your daily functioning, feeling like you have to put on a brave face to get by, but suffering inside? Are you a young adult who previously led a vibrant, active life, now struggling to adjust to a diagnosis and figure out what that means for your present and future? Do you struggle with patterns of thoughts and emotions that heighten your pain and leave you feeling hopeless about ever escaping this cycle? Maybe you are starting to consider that traumatic events in the past have contributed to your current experience of pain and suffering.
Have you been experiencing pain that interferes with your daily functioning, feeling like you have to put on a brave face to get by, but suffering inside? Are you a young adult who previously led a vibrant, active life, now struggling to adjust to a diagnosis and figure out what that means for your present and future? Do you struggle with patterns of thoughts and emotions that heighten your pain and leave you feeling hopeless about ever escaping this cycle? Maybe you are starting to consider that traumatic events in the past have contributed to your current experience of pain and suffering.
(828) 415-5826 View (828) 415-5826
Photo of Tim Bandell, LCSW, CTTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tim Bandell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTTS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with hopelessness, ongoing despair, lack of motivation, worrying, panic? Can't relax? Is your past wreaking havoc on your present? Chronic pain consuming your life? Does it feel like life is just too much? Is your baggage damaging your relationship? In a safe space, I provide therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship stress, trauma, chronic pain or life transitions.
Are you struggling with hopelessness, ongoing despair, lack of motivation, worrying, panic? Can't relax? Is your past wreaking havoc on your present? Chronic pain consuming your life? Does it feel like life is just too much? Is your baggage damaging your relationship? In a safe space, I provide therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship stress, trauma, chronic pain or life transitions.
(828) 383-8385 View (828) 383-8385
Photo of Madison Brightwell, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Madison Brightwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger.
I am licensed in four states and can offer Telehealth sessions to clients in CA, NC, WA and OR. Let's face it - life can be difficult. If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or you're struggling to just to feel "normal" again, you've made the right choice by seeking therapy. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to face and overcome life's challenges. You don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I know no two individuals are the same, and I'll tailor our sessions to address the challenges unique to you.
I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger.
I am licensed in four states and can offer Telehealth sessions to clients in CA, NC, WA and OR. Let's face it - life can be difficult. If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or you're struggling to just to feel "normal" again, you've made the right choice by seeking therapy. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to face and overcome life's challenges. You don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I know no two individuals are the same, and I'll tailor our sessions to address the challenges unique to you.
(828) 575-5097 View (828) 575-5097
Photo of Kathleen ('kelsie') Kenefick, MPS, LCMHC, BCB
Kathleen ('kelsie') Kenefick
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MPS, LCMHC, BCB
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28806
Are you struggling with chronic pain, PTSD, anxiety, panic attacks, or the burdens of chronic stress? If you answered “yes” to any of these, you have come to the right place. I have been Board Certified in Biofeedback since 1995. I have worked in hospitals and in private practice with persons having any condition that is created by, or exacerbated by, an imbalance in the nervous system. When you learn to regulate your nervous system, you begin to release “feel good” chemicals (ie oxytocin, endorphins) into the blood stream. Endorphins relieve pain naturally and elevate your mood. My approach is very mind-body focused.
Are you struggling with chronic pain, PTSD, anxiety, panic attacks, or the burdens of chronic stress? If you answered “yes” to any of these, you have come to the right place. I have been Board Certified in Biofeedback since 1995. I have worked in hospitals and in private practice with persons having any condition that is created by, or exacerbated by, an imbalance in the nervous system. When you learn to regulate your nervous system, you begin to release “feel good” chemicals (ie oxytocin, endorphins) into the blood stream. Endorphins relieve pain naturally and elevate your mood. My approach is very mind-body focused.
(828) 373-2838 View (828) 373-2838
Photo of Faith C Cook, PsyD, Psychologist
Faith C Cook
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
If you are finding yourself emotionally overwhelmed with managing diabetes, other autoimmune disorders or chronic illness (or you are a loved one is trying to cope), please contact me to find out what treatment approach might benefit you most.
My treatment focuses on people with chronic illness, trauma, especially people with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, other autoimmune disorders and those who love a person with chronic illness. If you are struggling adapting to a new diagnosis of diabetes, or with the rigors of long-standing diabetes self-management, you are not alone. Diabetes distress and burnout have been well-defined and are treatable. If you love someone with chronic illness, and you find it difficult to manage your anxiety or have burnout yourself, please consider psychotherapy.
If you are finding yourself emotionally overwhelmed with managing diabetes, other autoimmune disorders or chronic illness (or you are a loved one is trying to cope), please contact me to find out what treatment approach might benefit you most.
My treatment focuses on people with chronic illness, trauma, especially people with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, other autoimmune disorders and those who love a person with chronic illness. If you are struggling adapting to a new diagnosis of diabetes, or with the rigors of long-standing diabetes self-management, you are not alone. Diabetes distress and burnout have been well-defined and are treatable. If you love someone with chronic illness, and you find it difficult to manage your anxiety or have burnout yourself, please consider psychotherapy.
(828) 586-5555 View (828) 586-5555
Photo of Dr. Anne Baker, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Anne Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I work with adults only and specialize in treatment for chronic pain, trauma/PTSD, and anxiety. I also help with a range of other issues. I especially enjoy supporting clients who have centralized conditions (e.g., fibromyalgia, IBS) and/or autoimmune diseases alongside histories of trauma. Clients often come into therapy with me expressing a desire to more deeply understand themselves and their sense of suffering, and to let go of the burdens they carry. My job in that process is never to fix you or tell you what to do. Rather, it is to support you in discovering your own deep knowing about who you are and what you need.
I work with adults only and specialize in treatment for chronic pain, trauma/PTSD, and anxiety. I also help with a range of other issues. I especially enjoy supporting clients who have centralized conditions (e.g., fibromyalgia, IBS) and/or autoimmune diseases alongside histories of trauma. Clients often come into therapy with me expressing a desire to more deeply understand themselves and their sense of suffering, and to let go of the burdens they carry. My job in that process is never to fix you or tell you what to do. Rather, it is to support you in discovering your own deep knowing about who you are and what you need.
(919) 759-6056 View (919) 759-6056
Photo of Tara Jubanowsky, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Jubanowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
(984) 265-8755 View (984) 265-8755
Photo of Corey Costanzo, MA, LCAS, LMBT, SEP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Corey Costanzo
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCAS, LMBT, SEP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Lets explore your life experience in a new and exciting way. I see suffering as an opportunity to break free from old patterns, habits, and ways of thinking that are not working for you anymore. It's a call from deep inside saying, "something needs to shift". This shift can come from exploring a relationship to a substance that you are using, and the pain, anxiety, depression, or a general sense of not loving your life that may come with it. Your unique journey is here right now, and experiencing it from a nonjudgmental perspective can be a vital ingredient to moving past whatever is holding you back from living your best life.
Lets explore your life experience in a new and exciting way. I see suffering as an opportunity to break free from old patterns, habits, and ways of thinking that are not working for you anymore. It's a call from deep inside saying, "something needs to shift". This shift can come from exploring a relationship to a substance that you are using, and the pain, anxiety, depression, or a general sense of not loving your life that may come with it. Your unique journey is here right now, and experiencing it from a nonjudgmental perspective can be a vital ingredient to moving past whatever is holding you back from living your best life.
(828) 970-1704 View (828) 970-1704
Photo of Leslie Robin Cohen, PhD, BCBA-D, Psychologist
Leslie Robin Cohen
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist and BCBA-D and have worked for 19+ years with people seeking new ways of interacting, coping with grief and pain, better managing stress, expressing their individuality and creativity, and living more authentically. The therapeutic relationship is central to my work; I strive to be a reliable, compassionate, and informed partner. I believe an alliance based on trust, built over time, is essential to healing. My approach is creative, compassionate and practical. I see patients exclusively through Telehealth.
I am a clinical psychologist and BCBA-D and have worked for 19+ years with people seeking new ways of interacting, coping with grief and pain, better managing stress, expressing their individuality and creativity, and living more authentically. The therapeutic relationship is central to my work; I strive to be a reliable, compassionate, and informed partner. I believe an alliance based on trust, built over time, is essential to healing. My approach is creative, compassionate and practical. I see patients exclusively through Telehealth.
(929) 348-2567 View (929) 348-2567
Photo of Kristin Mignogna, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Kristin Mignogna
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I help clients work through problems related to relational issues, life transitions, chronic pain, PTSD/trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, and borderline traits.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counseling Associate who strives to create a space of trust and safety in which clients can heal, progress, and develop self-compassion. I have experience helping clients with a broad range of presenting concerns, with an educational focus on trauma. I cater my therapeutic techniques to each individual client's needs, drawing most heavily from Person-Centered (approaching clients as equal collaborators, with empathy and non-judgement), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (focusing on thought patterns), and Gestalt Therapy (focusing on emotional and somatic experiences).
I help clients work through problems related to relational issues, life transitions, chronic pain, PTSD/trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, and borderline traits.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counseling Associate who strives to create a space of trust and safety in which clients can heal, progress, and develop self-compassion. I have experience helping clients with a broad range of presenting concerns, with an educational focus on trauma. I cater my therapeutic techniques to each individual client's needs, drawing most heavily from Person-Centered (approaching clients as equal collaborators, with empathy and non-judgement), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (focusing on thought patterns), and Gestalt Therapy (focusing on emotional and somatic experiences).
(828) 457-7143 View (828) 457-7143
Photo of Karen Ren Jordan, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Ren Jordan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
For so many people, our childhoods were not "good enough, safe enough." Maybe our caregivers were tricky and lacked the capacity to allow us full human experiences as children, and now our bodies are holding that pain. For some of us, we bonded with what was available- substances, food, sex, pain. For all of us, our emotions and behaviors make sense within the context of who we are and what we've been through. And we have survived the worst. Some of our behaviors may not be helping the way they once did. Together, we can start fulfilling the unmet needs that are underneath those behaviors so that you can grow in meaningful ways.
For so many people, our childhoods were not "good enough, safe enough." Maybe our caregivers were tricky and lacked the capacity to allow us full human experiences as children, and now our bodies are holding that pain. For some of us, we bonded with what was available- substances, food, sex, pain. For all of us, our emotions and behaviors make sense within the context of who we are and what we've been through. And we have survived the worst. Some of our behaviors may not be helping the way they once did. Together, we can start fulfilling the unmet needs that are underneath those behaviors so that you can grow in meaningful ways.
(828) 662-8902 View (828) 662-8902
Photo of Cea Rubin, LCSWA, LMBT, RYT-500, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cea Rubin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LMBT, RYT-500
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Turning points in life can bring up anxiety, fear of the unknown, and questioning yourself. The pressures of society, “should’s,” and patterns from childhood make it even more difficult to hear yourself. In this in-between, cocoon-like phase – in which you’re not who you were and not yet who you will become – doubt, worry, bad dreams, digestive issues, neck and jaw pain, and low back pain are a few of the symptoms that can arise. Simultaneously, transitions are opportunities to deepen trust in yourself and get to know your genuine self. Together, we will illuminate and empower your needs and desires for this next phase of your life.
Turning points in life can bring up anxiety, fear of the unknown, and questioning yourself. The pressures of society, “should’s,” and patterns from childhood make it even more difficult to hear yourself. In this in-between, cocoon-like phase – in which you’re not who you were and not yet who you will become – doubt, worry, bad dreams, digestive issues, neck and jaw pain, and low back pain are a few of the symptoms that can arise. Simultaneously, transitions are opportunities to deepen trust in yourself and get to know your genuine self. Together, we will illuminate and empower your needs and desires for this next phase of your life.
(984) 224-7736 View (984) 224-7736
Photo of Carol Greenberger, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Carol Greenberger
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
Some typical reasons people come to me are negative thought patterns, self-defeating behaviors, compulsions, addictions, trauma, feeling trapped in the pain of the past and not knowing how to let go.
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
Some typical reasons people come to me are negative thought patterns, self-defeating behaviors, compulsions, addictions, trauma, feeling trapped in the pain of the past and not knowing how to let go.
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
(828) 484-2226 View (828) 484-2226
Photo of Kristin Bure, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Bure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
For all of us, there are times when we seek a new direction, a way forward, a fresh possibility for living. Are you feeling stuck or wanting to improve some aspect of your life or yourself? Are you using substances to cope with mental health issues such mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, or chronic pain, stress and life transitions? If you’re here, you know things aren’t okay and life feels unmanageable. Substance use and/or mental health disorders can hijack your life. I can help you get back into the driver’s seat. I can help you feel more empowered to access your innate inner strengths, and reach your fullest recovery potential.
For all of us, there are times when we seek a new direction, a way forward, a fresh possibility for living. Are you feeling stuck or wanting to improve some aspect of your life or yourself? Are you using substances to cope with mental health issues such mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, or chronic pain, stress and life transitions? If you’re here, you know things aren’t okay and life feels unmanageable. Substance use and/or mental health disorders can hijack your life. I can help you get back into the driver’s seat. I can help you feel more empowered to access your innate inner strengths, and reach your fullest recovery potential.
(828) 575-5984 View (828) 575-5984
Photo of Christen Mullane, PhD, Psychologist
Christen Mullane
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805  (Online Only)
It may feel as though you are your illness, right now - as though your medical diagnosis is what defines you.
There are good days, bad days, and days that are completely overwhelming. You have never thought so much about your body in your life, and now you struggle with it every day. You remember when you trusted your body. There were times when you felt ill, but you recovered before. Now, your medical team is telling you that there is no going back to how things used to be. You are angry, you are frightened, you are hurting, and your loved ones are, too. Nobody seems to know exactly what to say, or what you need. It feels like a bomb has gone off in your life, and you are sifting through the rubble.
It may feel as though you are your illness, right now - as though your medical diagnosis is what defines you.
There are good days, bad days, and days that are completely overwhelming. You have never thought so much about your body in your life, and now you struggle with it every day. You remember when you trusted your body. There were times when you felt ill, but you recovered before. Now, your medical team is telling you that there is no going back to how things used to be. You are angry, you are frightened, you are hurting, and your loved ones are, too. Nobody seems to know exactly what to say, or what you need. It feels like a bomb has gone off in your life, and you are sifting through the rubble.
(512) 489-9803 View (512) 489-9803
Photo of Shannon South, LCMHC, ThD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon South
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, ThD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
These heal depression and anxiety, pain and grief, increase immunity, empower you and build confidence, increase a feeling of wholeness and connection to others and set you free from the past.
I am an integrative therapist focused on healing the split associated with trauma. Trauma can disconnect you from your authenticity and power, creating a misalignment in your mind-body and spirit. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the Inner Counselor are two highly effective approaches used for healing. I see clients with panic disorder and depression, sexual abuse, abusive relationships, codependency and self-esteem issues and more. Bringing health and balance back around areas that have become compulsions (eating, sex, alcohol, relationships, etc.) is another important part of this personal healing journey.
These heal depression and anxiety, pain and grief, increase immunity, empower you and build confidence, increase a feeling of wholeness and connection to others and set you free from the past.
I am an integrative therapist focused on healing the split associated with trauma. Trauma can disconnect you from your authenticity and power, creating a misalignment in your mind-body and spirit. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the Inner Counselor are two highly effective approaches used for healing. I see clients with panic disorder and depression, sexual abuse, abusive relationships, codependency and self-esteem issues and more. Bringing health and balance back around areas that have become compulsions (eating, sex, alcohol, relationships, etc.) is another important part of this personal healing journey.
(828) 351-9963 View (828) 351-9963
Photo of Jared Hinton, MAT, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A, Counselor
Jared Hinton
Counselor, MAT, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I specialize in helping people recover from relational trauma and experience issues related to co-dependency, grief, adverse childhood experiences and growing up around alcoholism, addiction or mental illness.
Through counseling with me, you will learn how to relate differently to troubling thoughts, emotions and behaviors while cultivating greater empathy, understanding, and acceptance of yourself and others.
I specialize in helping people recover from relational trauma and experience issues related to co-dependency, grief, adverse childhood experiences and growing up around alcoholism, addiction or mental illness.
Through counseling with me, you will learn how to relate differently to troubling thoughts, emotions and behaviors while cultivating greater empathy, understanding, and acceptance of yourself and others.
(828) 574-6432 View (828) 574-6432
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 Guy Morganstein - Guy Morganstein - Asheville Counseling Center, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Guy Morganstein - Asheville Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my background includes extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, and EFT Meridian Tapping, (which an easy to learn tapping technique proven extremely helpful in reducing anxiety, traumatic memories, anger, physical pain, and other issues), conflict resolution skills, and stress management.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my background includes extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, and EFT Meridian Tapping, (which an easy to learn tapping technique proven extremely helpful in reducing anxiety, traumatic memories, anger, physical pain, and other issues), conflict resolution skills, and stress management.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! With over 35 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience, I believe that anyone can make changes necessary to improve their mood, relationships, and quality of life. My focus is on helping you, your partner, and your family implement practical strategies to solve problems, reach goals, and create lasting change. Areas of focus include helping couples improve communication and avoid patterns which result in conflict, and helping people with behavior, anger, or mood issues. I work with you in a safe, compassionate, and confidential environment, and respect of your needs and desires.
(828) 337-7549 View (828) 337-7549
Photo of Vanessa Guerrero, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Vanessa Guerrero
LCMHC Associate, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
I work primarily with female adolescents and young adults with a history of chronic illness, trauma, perfectionism, depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders.
Currently Accepting Clients ( Telehealth Only)-My name is Vanessa Guerero and I am a clinical therapist with Winter to Spring Wellness. Prior to being in Asheville for almost a decade, I originally hail from Miami, Fl. I am a proud daughter of Cuban immigrants and a first-generation college student. As a teen I had my own battles with physical and mental wellness, difficulties with acculturation as well as struggled with cultural stigma in regard to mental health care. Through my own work, I have been able to find healing and am now honored to support others who struggle with their own mental wellness and similar issues.
I work primarily with female adolescents and young adults with a history of chronic illness, trauma, perfectionism, depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders.
Currently Accepting Clients ( Telehealth Only)-My name is Vanessa Guerero and I am a clinical therapist with Winter to Spring Wellness. Prior to being in Asheville for almost a decade, I originally hail from Miami, Fl. I am a proud daughter of Cuban immigrants and a first-generation college student. As a teen I had my own battles with physical and mental wellness, difficulties with acculturation as well as struggled with cultural stigma in regard to mental health care. Through my own work, I have been able to find healing and am now honored to support others who struggle with their own mental wellness and similar issues.
(828) 382-8550 View (828) 382-8550
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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.