Therapists in Haywood County, NC
![Photo of Ashley Merchant, LCSWA, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddfbfe41-e06f-4c06-92d1-8a29e67c015f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Merchant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28785 (Online Only)
We live in a world quickly changing with many demands and stressors. Therapy is like working out at a gym. Instead, it is building inner strength and emotional fitness. Traumas or events can happen in life leading to a dysregulated nervous system. We can experience the loss of a job, partner, or identity; the loss of a loved one or pet; disease, illness, financial instability; relationship or family issues, or housing crisis that spin our worlds upside down. Maybe it is low self-worth, stress, or feeling stuck in life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to be a supportive ally for your growth.
We live in a world quickly changing with many demands and stressors. Therapy is like working out at a gym. Instead, it is building inner strength and emotional fitness. Traumas or events can happen in life leading to a dysregulated nervous system. We can experience the loss of a job, partner, or identity; the loss of a loved one or pet; disease, illness, financial instability; relationship or family issues, or housing crisis that spin our worlds upside down. Maybe it is low self-worth, stress, or feeling stuck in life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to be a supportive ally for your growth.
![Photo of Lynne Finger, MSW, LCSW, PA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a077e64-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
You have the ability to reinvent yourself, endlessly. It isn't too late. Your life is here and now. If you have found yourself at this site, you must be going through something pretty tough and are looking for a solution. Perhaps you are feeling lost and uncertain, and don't know where to begin. Whether it be a relationship issue or a personal struggle, the strain of it all can be overwhelming and can cause a mix of emotions...loneliness, sadness, grief, anger, anxiety, depression. It may feel as if your life is spiraling out of control. All you want is to find peace, happiness, and to change your current situation.
You have the ability to reinvent yourself, endlessly. It isn't too late. Your life is here and now. If you have found yourself at this site, you must be going through something pretty tough and are looking for a solution. Perhaps you are feeling lost and uncertain, and don't know where to begin. Whether it be a relationship issue or a personal struggle, the strain of it all can be overwhelming and can cause a mix of emotions...loneliness, sadness, grief, anger, anxiety, depression. It may feel as if your life is spiraling out of control. All you want is to find peace, happiness, and to change your current situation.
![Photo of Jessica Gruber, MA, LPA, LCAS, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a5a8dcc-4bc6-47f3-bb1f-2b8bb977f78c/4/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Gruber
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, LCAS
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786 (Online Only)
I work with adults seeking to change their lives. I have considerable experience helping people alleviate anxiety and depression, as well as, other mood disorders. I find creative ways to help people heal from trauma they have experienced and to connect with the present. I enjoy helping people who need help to tackle substance use issues such as alcohol or other drugs. I also work with couples using EFT to rebuild the bond between partners and create a healthier relationship with emotions.
I work with adults seeking to change their lives. I have considerable experience helping people alleviate anxiety and depression, as well as, other mood disorders. I find creative ways to help people heal from trauma they have experienced and to connect with the present. I enjoy helping people who need help to tackle substance use issues such as alcohol or other drugs. I also work with couples using EFT to rebuild the bond between partners and create a healthier relationship with emotions.
![Photo of Janet J. Zander, LCMHC, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cee0f2d1-1b75-48c4-bd2f-7235abca6537/2/320x400.jpeg)
Janet J. Zander
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28786
Are you looking to improve health in mind, body and spirit? I believe healing comes from dimensions including physical, mental and emotional health, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, relationships and spiritual life. My approach is strength based, empathic and interactive. My training has been in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, trauma, PTSD, grief/loss, relationships and family issues. My aim is to provide a supportive and safe space where we can collaborate and work at your own pace to help you reach your goals.
Are you looking to improve health in mind, body and spirit? I believe healing comes from dimensions including physical, mental and emotional health, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, relationships and spiritual life. My approach is strength based, empathic and interactive. My training has been in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, trauma, PTSD, grief/loss, relationships and family issues. My aim is to provide a supportive and safe space where we can collaborate and work at your own pace to help you reach your goals.
![Photo of N. Diane Stamey, MA, LMFT, LFBPC, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e59a98-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
N. Diane Stamey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LFBPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
Canton, NC 28716
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook, Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook, Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
![Photo of Ryn Arrants, LCMHC, LCAS, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4df7a4e8-5124-4ba3-9fe3-502bcfdf97f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ryn Arrants
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Canton, NC 28716
Waitlist for new clients
We all go through times in our lives when therapy can help us to cope with the difficulties that arise. You are not alone. Maybe your are feeling overwhelmed or stuck. You feel like you have tried everything and you are looking for a new way to improve your situation. Perhaps your child has experienced an upsetting event and you don't want this to define them. It hurts to see the people we love upset or struggling. I can offer the tools, skills, and support for your journey.
We all go through times in our lives when therapy can help us to cope with the difficulties that arise. You are not alone. Maybe your are feeling overwhelmed or stuck. You feel like you have tried everything and you are looking for a new way to improve your situation. Perhaps your child has experienced an upsetting event and you don't want this to define them. It hurts to see the people we love upset or struggling. I can offer the tools, skills, and support for your journey.
![Photo of Mary Monaghan, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b20c3030-52d2-48f3-a60a-aceaaf6d17b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Monaghan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28785
Stress, anxiety, uncertainty, and fear can feel overwhelming. You may find yourself turning to drugs or alcohol, harmful eating patterns, self-harm, or fall back on other old habits to cope with your emotions. You may be struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or fear. Maybe you are in recovery from addiction or an eating disorder, and are having trouble maintaining your progress. You may be navigating your gender and sexual identify. Or perhaps you are concerned that your teenager is dealing with some of these issues. Whatever you are facing, you are not alone! I am here to provide support, guidance, and encouragement.
Stress, anxiety, uncertainty, and fear can feel overwhelming. You may find yourself turning to drugs or alcohol, harmful eating patterns, self-harm, or fall back on other old habits to cope with your emotions. You may be struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or fear. Maybe you are in recovery from addiction or an eating disorder, and are having trouble maintaining your progress. You may be navigating your gender and sexual identify. Or perhaps you are concerned that your teenager is dealing with some of these issues. Whatever you are facing, you are not alone! I am here to provide support, guidance, and encouragement.
![Photo of Chelsea King, MS, LCAS, LCMHCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09bd3e84-439e-450d-b7e6-d8c1ee782ef8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsea King
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCAS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canton, NC 28716
New Patient Waitlist! Sometimes when life hands you lemons, it can be hard to transform it into lemonade. It's a process and maybe you don't have the utensils or a recipe to reference. When you are ready to make lemonade out of life, that's where I step in to help. My goal is to be present for you when you are contemplating making a change. Whether it is incorporating more self-care, balancing a busy lifestyle, making a career change, addressing mental health concerns, or processing past trauma, counseling can be a utensil in your kitchen to improve your life. I've been working with clients to address a variety of concerns.
New Patient Waitlist! Sometimes when life hands you lemons, it can be hard to transform it into lemonade. It's a process and maybe you don't have the utensils or a recipe to reference. When you are ready to make lemonade out of life, that's where I step in to help. My goal is to be present for you when you are contemplating making a change. Whether it is incorporating more self-care, balancing a busy lifestyle, making a career change, addressing mental health concerns, or processing past trauma, counseling can be a utensil in your kitchen to improve your life. I've been working with clients to address a variety of concerns.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Corey Costanzo, MA, LCAS, LMBT, SEP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44157695-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of David Kaufmann, MA, LCMHC, LCAS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a8b6456-cd8c-40ec-be07-8bbeb5ec875a/2/320x400.jpeg)
David Kaufmann
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Life is challenging, sometimes it can feel like we aren’t made for the pace that is asked of us in today’s world. The result can feel like disconnect, overwhelm, or even depression and anxiety. Therapy can help. It is clear to me in my work, and in my own life, that once we start paying attention to our pain, we can do something about it. Having a guide in that process can make it simpler and more effective. Everyone is unique and as individuals what we need can take time to uncover and incorporate into our daily lives.
Life is challenging, sometimes it can feel like we aren’t made for the pace that is asked of us in today’s world. The result can feel like disconnect, overwhelm, or even depression and anxiety. Therapy can help. It is clear to me in my work, and in my own life, that once we start paying attention to our pain, we can do something about it. Having a guide in that process can make it simpler and more effective. Everyone is unique and as individuals what we need can take time to uncover and incorporate into our daily lives.
![Photo of Alysann Whitley Price, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24e5c953-5fdf-49c9-9575-8950154a2ab2/1/320x400.png)
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
![Photo of Cindy Austin Lineberger, LCSW, CIMPH, CMIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/008773da-3acd-44d3-8931-a7455df49c5d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cindy Austin Lineberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMPH, CMIP
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, beautiful soul! Are you feeling weighed down by anxiety, navigating life transitions, or struggling with chronic illness? Do you find yourself constantly giving to others, leaving little room for self-care and fulfillment? If so, you're in the right place. I'm a LCSW & hold additional specialized training in ACT, CBT, Integrative Nutrition, Body Positivity, Self Esteem, Sex Therapy, & Mindfulness to ensure you reach your therapy goals. I incorporate technology via an app that offers therapy resources such as worksheets, journals, trackers, and module learning for in-between session action plans. Client's love this resource.
Hello, beautiful soul! Are you feeling weighed down by anxiety, navigating life transitions, or struggling with chronic illness? Do you find yourself constantly giving to others, leaving little room for self-care and fulfillment? If so, you're in the right place. I'm a LCSW & hold additional specialized training in ACT, CBT, Integrative Nutrition, Body Positivity, Self Esteem, Sex Therapy, & Mindfulness to ensure you reach your therapy goals. I incorporate technology via an app that offers therapy resources such as worksheets, journals, trackers, and module learning for in-between session action plans. Client's love this resource.
![Photo of Deborah Whitley Van Wieren, LCMHC , LCAS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/525753f2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Whitley Van Wieren
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC , LCAS
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Waitlist for new clients
When appropriate I offer lived experience about my own journey of recovery from substance addiction, codependency, and catastrophic illness.
Life can present challenges, some we live with every day, and others seem to come out of nowhere. Maybe life doesn't follow along a path we've spent years creating and working toward. The business of living can begin to feel like a grind, and simple tasks may create exhaustion, fear, and uncertainty. Unresolved and painful childhood memories seem to revisit out of nowhere, and even though you've worked and wished, or prayed about the pain, the pain lingers. We often resign ourselves to perceiving life as a chore instead of a joyful experience, which can lead to a lack of fulfillment and even chronic illness.
When appropriate I offer lived experience about my own journey of recovery from substance addiction, codependency, and catastrophic illness.
Life can present challenges, some we live with every day, and others seem to come out of nowhere. Maybe life doesn't follow along a path we've spent years creating and working toward. The business of living can begin to feel like a grind, and simple tasks may create exhaustion, fear, and uncertainty. Unresolved and painful childhood memories seem to revisit out of nowhere, and even though you've worked and wished, or prayed about the pain, the pain lingers. We often resign ourselves to perceiving life as a chore instead of a joyful experience, which can lead to a lack of fulfillment and even chronic illness.
![Photo of Tim Bandell, LCSW, CTTS, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e5a40e0-36fa-4840-af49-58b2470f6a3d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tim Bandell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTTS, CCTP
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.
![Photo of Will Hamilton, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25480d8c-8e9a-47c4-b8ec-2cc3337c75fa/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a teacher at Buddhist Geeks and Asheville Yoga Center, I offer workshops and retreats related yoga, neuroscience, pain management, and psychedelics.
Offering Teletherapy in Most States: I primarily use IFS and behavioral treatments (ACT, DBT, CFT, RODBT) to emphasize acceptance of one's current experience, the development of skills (mindfulness, play, perspective, assertiveness, inquiry, and values), and use courage and experimentation to help promote change. I also help facilitate ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and I am strong advocate of developing the skill of compassion for oneself and others. Many of us struggle with finding a sense of being home with reality as it is, although that home is always available and may be easier to return to than assumed.
As a teacher at Buddhist Geeks and Asheville Yoga Center, I offer workshops and retreats related yoga, neuroscience, pain management, and psychedelics.
Offering Teletherapy in Most States: I primarily use IFS and behavioral treatments (ACT, DBT, CFT, RODBT) to emphasize acceptance of one's current experience, the development of skills (mindfulness, play, perspective, assertiveness, inquiry, and values), and use courage and experimentation to help promote change. I also help facilitate ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and I am strong advocate of developing the skill of compassion for oneself and others. Many of us struggle with finding a sense of being home with reality as it is, although that home is always available and may be easier to return to than assumed.
![Photo of Carol Greenberger, MA, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9982fdbb-8f7c-4bdf-8e8f-297c03a0677d/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Emilie Ferguson, RN, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a5e6758-4ed3-4848-9c15-f7b347f917e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello lovely folks. I’m Emilie, a counseling intern. I have emerging interests in improving interpersonal relationships, childhood, medical, and religious trauma, neurodiversity, and people pleasing. I have lived experience with neurodiversity and chronic illness, and could talk for days about the intersectionality of being a woman with a chronic illness navigating this productivity-focused world.
Hello lovely folks. I’m Emilie, a counseling intern. I have emerging interests in improving interpersonal relationships, childhood, medical, and religious trauma, neurodiversity, and people pleasing. I have lived experience with neurodiversity and chronic illness, and could talk for days about the intersectionality of being a woman with a chronic illness navigating this productivity-focused world.
![Photo of Guy Morganstein - Guy Morganstein - Asheville Counseling Center, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c17123a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kevin J Ryan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb944e3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kevin J Ryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairview, NC 28730 (Online Only)
The clients I see most often present issues of depression, anxiety, chronic pain, grief or loss and marital or relationship conflicts.
My approach Integrative Psychotherapy draws primarily from Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Insight Meditation. It is my experience that people make changes in their lives in therapy when they feel appropriately supported and understood. This combined with awareness developed through mindfulness practices enables people to take the insights cultivated in therapy sessions and implement them in their lives. I see therapy as an opportunity to explore how our thoughts and perceptions about our life situations, determine the quality of how we experience our lives. Our self-perceptions developed throughout our lives, are often our greatest impediment to changing our lives.
The clients I see most often present issues of depression, anxiety, chronic pain, grief or loss and marital or relationship conflicts.
My approach Integrative Psychotherapy draws primarily from Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Insight Meditation. It is my experience that people make changes in their lives in therapy when they feel appropriately supported and understood. This combined with awareness developed through mindfulness practices enables people to take the insights cultivated in therapy sessions and implement them in their lives. I see therapy as an opportunity to explore how our thoughts and perceptions about our life situations, determine the quality of how we experience our lives. Our self-perceptions developed throughout our lives, are often our greatest impediment to changing our lives.
![Photo of Rebecca Fugate, MA, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98ad1a0c-371b-43d6-865b-0a724b58d08a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Many people arrive in therapy in emotional pain and distress.
I provide individual therapy services to adults of all ages, and am licensed to practice in NC. I have over 20 years of experience working with clients of various backgrounds and life situations. I worked for years providing therapy in adult community mental health settings, a college counseling center, as well as experience serving as a Mental Health therapist for Native American/tribal population. I am well experienced in treatment of anxiety (including OCD, Generalized Anxiety, Phobia, Panic Disorder, etc), depression, grief/loss, codependency, life adjustment/transitions, family of origin issues, and PTSD.
Many people arrive in therapy in emotional pain and distress.
I provide individual therapy services to adults of all ages, and am licensed to practice in NC. I have over 20 years of experience working with clients of various backgrounds and life situations. I worked for years providing therapy in adult community mental health settings, a college counseling center, as well as experience serving as a Mental Health therapist for Native American/tribal population. I am well experienced in treatment of anxiety (including OCD, Generalized Anxiety, Phobia, Panic Disorder, etc), depression, grief/loss, codependency, life adjustment/transitions, family of origin issues, and PTSD.
See more therapy options for Haywood 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.