Chronic Pain Therapists in Huntersville, NC

Photo of Amber K Lynn, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber K Lynn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
My passion for counseling developed from my own journey with chronic migraines, anxiety, and relationships. I enjoy working with couples and adults on a wide range of issues impacting well-being including, but not limited to, stress, trauma, communication and relationships, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, identity, mild disordered eating, confidence, or just feeling “stuck” and dissatisfied with one’s direction in life.
My passion for counseling developed from my own journey with chronic migraines, anxiety, and relationships. I enjoy working with couples and adults on a wide range of issues impacting well-being including, but not limited to, stress, trauma, communication and relationships, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, identity, mild disordered eating, confidence, or just feeling “stuck” and dissatisfied with one’s direction in life.
(704) 237-6560 x3 View (704) 237-6560 x3
Photo of Brelonda R Walker - Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC, DBH, LCMHCS, BCIM, BC-TMH, NCC
Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, DBH, LCMHCS, BCIM, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28070  (Online Only)
Feeling as if you will never get well? Tired of visiting multiple practices in search of answers and never finding them? Do you have difficulty managing a chronic illness or complying with your provider's recommended treatment plan? If any of these scenarios sound familiar, allow one of our team members to assist you in regaining your optimal health.
The clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC are qualified, credentialed, and licensed professionals whose primary mission is to provide quality therapeutic care and organizational training to the surrounding community. Their goal is to empower people; to enrich lives; to give you control of your outcomes; and to restore your body, mind and spirit back to their optimal states of functioning. The certified and licensed clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions have over 28 years of experience and are trained in equipping clients with the tools necessary to maximize their environment and enhance their well-being.
Feeling as if you will never get well? Tired of visiting multiple practices in search of answers and never finding them? Do you have difficulty managing a chronic illness or complying with your provider's recommended treatment plan? If any of these scenarios sound familiar, allow one of our team members to assist you in regaining your optimal health.
The clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC are qualified, credentialed, and licensed professionals whose primary mission is to provide quality therapeutic care and organizational training to the surrounding community. Their goal is to empower people; to enrich lives; to give you control of your outcomes; and to restore your body, mind and spirit back to their optimal states of functioning. The certified and licensed clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions have over 28 years of experience and are trained in equipping clients with the tools necessary to maximize their environment and enhance their well-being.
(704) 896-6044 x1 View (704) 896-6044 x1
Photo of Amber Pearce, MA, LCMHC, RYT-200, Counselor
Amber Pearce
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
You can breathe easier and have a little less pain through the day.
As much as you want to live in this moment, you find yourself being pulled into the past or worrying about the future. You notice that you aren't able to focus or concentrate on your life or work. You can’t take a full breath, your heart races, your stomach hurts, your head aches, you feel frozen, or you feel nothing at all. You find yourself getting hooked into so many negative thoughts and worry about all the bad things that might happen in the future. You are so tired all the time, whether you sleep all the time or none at all. A part of you is fearful it might always feel this way but you're not very sure what you can do next.
You can breathe easier and have a little less pain through the day.
As much as you want to live in this moment, you find yourself being pulled into the past or worrying about the future. You notice that you aren't able to focus or concentrate on your life or work. You can’t take a full breath, your heart races, your stomach hurts, your head aches, you feel frozen, or you feel nothing at all. You find yourself getting hooked into so many negative thoughts and worry about all the bad things that might happen in the future. You are so tired all the time, whether you sleep all the time or none at all. A part of you is fearful it might always feel this way but you're not very sure what you can do next.
(704) 327-0469 View (704) 327-0469
Photo of Carole F Bombardier, LCSW, MSW, CHT, HCHI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carole F Bombardier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CHT, HCHI
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I specialize in women's issues including pregnancy, infertility, prenatal and postpartum depression/anxiety, weight issues, chronic pain from Fibromyalgia, PMS, and other chronic diseases.
It is my passion to help people help themselves using a holistic approach to address the whole person. Sometimes we get so caught up in the details of life that we have difficulty seeing the big picture. Counseling can help you get more out of life, help you reach your goals and work through challenges and move forward to create and live the life you desire. Stress, anxiety, phobias, depression and life transitions are just some of the issues that I typically address within my practice.
I specialize in women's issues including pregnancy, infertility, prenatal and postpartum depression/anxiety, weight issues, chronic pain from Fibromyalgia, PMS, and other chronic diseases.
It is my passion to help people help themselves using a holistic approach to address the whole person. Sometimes we get so caught up in the details of life that we have difficulty seeing the big picture. Counseling can help you get more out of life, help you reach your goals and work through challenges and move forward to create and live the life you desire. Stress, anxiety, phobias, depression and life transitions are just some of the issues that I typically address within my practice.
(704) 266-6691 View (704) 266-6691
Photo of Shelly Luttman Phelps, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelly Luttman Phelps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Have you faced struggles with depression and anxiety possibly due to illness, family conflict, loss, work or relationship issues? Has it been difficult for you to cope with and overcome these emotions on your own? If so, you’re not alone. We all need support from time to time, yet many of us may not feel comfortable asking for help or sharing intimate details with friends or family. Within my practice, you will find a safe & nonjudgmental environment where we can explore these obstacles together, help you heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in life.
Have you faced struggles with depression and anxiety possibly due to illness, family conflict, loss, work or relationship issues? Has it been difficult for you to cope with and overcome these emotions on your own? If so, you’re not alone. We all need support from time to time, yet many of us may not feel comfortable asking for help or sharing intimate details with friends or family. Within my practice, you will find a safe & nonjudgmental environment where we can explore these obstacles together, help you heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in life.
(704) 912-0444 View (704) 912-0444
Photo of Kristin Kirk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Kirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
(704) 237-0421 View (704) 237-0421
Photo of Meg Houlihan, PhD, Psychologist
Meg Houlihan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28070
Not accepting new clients
Prior to entering private practice, I worked in a rehabilitation hospital, a chronic pain treatment center and a university counseling center.
I am available to work with clients who are experiencing depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, relationship discord, effects of chronic medical conditions and chronic stress, fertility/adoption issues and career/life direction questions. I take a practical, skills-based approach, collaborating with clients to incorporate information from past and present toward more effective functioning. My outlook is holistic, attending to the physical and spiritual/meaning realms as well as the cognitive, emotional and behavioral ones. I have a warm and friendly manner and I enjoy working with people as they identify and achieve their goals.
Prior to entering private practice, I worked in a rehabilitation hospital, a chronic pain treatment center and a university counseling center.
I am available to work with clients who are experiencing depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, relationship discord, effects of chronic medical conditions and chronic stress, fertility/adoption issues and career/life direction questions. I take a practical, skills-based approach, collaborating with clients to incorporate information from past and present toward more effective functioning. My outlook is holistic, attending to the physical and spiritual/meaning realms as well as the cognitive, emotional and behavioral ones. I have a warm and friendly manner and I enjoy working with people as they identify and achieve their goals.
(704) 461-0292 View (704) 461-0292
Photo of Nancy E Arnold, MA, LCMHC
Nancy E Arnold
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28070
I work with adult individuals/couples presenting with relationship issues describing symptoms of anxiety, anger, infidelity, depression, addiction, chronic illness/pain, grief, shame, low self-worth.
Do your relationships repeat the same frustrating cycles? Are you consistently feeling frustrated, angry or confused? Are you trying, to no avail, to be what you have always learned was "right" in relationships? What you believe about yourself and others influences the majority of your choices. Those feelings of hurt and frustration in relationships, often result in questions like "why?" and "what next?". I work with my clients to explore those feelings, attempting to uncover past and present patterns and beliefs influencing how you show up. Your work with me will move toward finding authenticity, truth and healing.
I work with adult individuals/couples presenting with relationship issues describing symptoms of anxiety, anger, infidelity, depression, addiction, chronic illness/pain, grief, shame, low self-worth.
Do your relationships repeat the same frustrating cycles? Are you consistently feeling frustrated, angry or confused? Are you trying, to no avail, to be what you have always learned was "right" in relationships? What you believe about yourself and others influences the majority of your choices. Those feelings of hurt and frustration in relationships, often result in questions like "why?" and "what next?". I work with my clients to explore those feelings, attempting to uncover past and present patterns and beliefs influencing how you show up. Your work with me will move toward finding authenticity, truth and healing.
(704) 750-0484 View (704) 750-0484
Photo of Rebecca Wolf, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Rebecca Wolf
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
EMDR therapy is also a helpful treatment for disorders such as anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic pain, addictions, and other distressing life experiences.
I provide trauma-informed care for individuals ages 14+ with anxiety, depression, PTSD/Complex-PTSD, addiction and a diverse range of other mental health concerns. These issues show up most often in personal and professional relationships affecting a persons sense of self and their worldview. I also work with individuals receiving psychiatric care for complex disorders. I am welcoming and affirming of individuals from diverse backgrounds and identities (LGBTQIA+). My passion for helping others comes from my own background, life experiences and mental health journey.
EMDR therapy is also a helpful treatment for disorders such as anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic pain, addictions, and other distressing life experiences.
I provide trauma-informed care for individuals ages 14+ with anxiety, depression, PTSD/Complex-PTSD, addiction and a diverse range of other mental health concerns. These issues show up most often in personal and professional relationships affecting a persons sense of self and their worldview. I also work with individuals receiving psychiatric care for complex disorders. I am welcoming and affirming of individuals from diverse backgrounds and identities (LGBTQIA+). My passion for helping others comes from my own background, life experiences and mental health journey.
(980) 391-6759 View (980) 391-6759
Photo of Donna Miller - Strengthening Foundations Child & Family Cnslng, MA, LCMHC, LMFTA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Strengthening Foundations Child & Family Cnslng
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078  (Online Only)
Facing life's challenges and transitions should not be done alone. When you encounter issues arising from lifecycle changes, relational turmoil or any other challenges that invoke a crisis or grief, it is important to have genuine and empathetic support to guide you without passing judgment. As a spouse of a retired veteran, I have over 20 years of experience adapting to the lifestyle challenges that the military community encounters. I have helped many families successfully cope with the military lifestyle, relational struggles and raise special children.
Facing life's challenges and transitions should not be done alone. When you encounter issues arising from lifecycle changes, relational turmoil or any other challenges that invoke a crisis or grief, it is important to have genuine and empathetic support to guide you without passing judgment. As a spouse of a retired veteran, I have over 20 years of experience adapting to the lifestyle challenges that the military community encounters. I have helped many families successfully cope with the military lifestyle, relational struggles and raise special children.
(910) 672-6766 View (910) 672-6766
Photo of Justina Floyd, MA, NCC, LCMHCQS
Justina Floyd
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, NCC, LCMHCQS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Not accepting new clients
I am a NC Supervisor and EMDRia Consultant in Training. I am accepting new supervisees and consultees at this time. We will collaboratively work to restore the true, authentic you; to unlock your fullest potential. ​I seek to walk alongside gender-diverse and women clients, as well as non-traditional couples, as they rediscover who they are without the pressure or stigmas of who they "should" be. I believe that your treatment should be tailored to you; offering an integrative approach which includes different therapeutic modalities based upon your needs and not simply to check the "correct" boxes.
I am a NC Supervisor and EMDRia Consultant in Training. I am accepting new supervisees and consultees at this time. We will collaboratively work to restore the true, authentic you; to unlock your fullest potential. ​I seek to walk alongside gender-diverse and women clients, as well as non-traditional couples, as they rediscover who they are without the pressure or stigmas of who they "should" be. I believe that your treatment should be tailored to you; offering an integrative approach which includes different therapeutic modalities based upon your needs and not simply to check the "correct" boxes.
(704) 286-8668 View (704) 286-8668
Photo of Elizabeth C Hutcheson, LCSW, ACSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth C Hutcheson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist IS the therapy. The feedback I hear from my clients is that they feel very relaxed and at ease with me which enables them to speak without censoring. This is the most important aspect of therapy...you must feel that your story is safe and secure and that you are being provided with helpful feedback. My relationship with my clients is a professional one yet my desire is for it to be interactive and informal. I am truly honored to help a person have their best possible life.
I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist IS the therapy. The feedback I hear from my clients is that they feel very relaxed and at ease with me which enables them to speak without censoring. This is the most important aspect of therapy...you must feel that your story is safe and secure and that you are being provided with helpful feedback. My relationship with my clients is a professional one yet my desire is for it to be interactive and informal. I am truly honored to help a person have their best possible life.
(704) 216-4064 View (704) 216-4064
Photo of Marie Leskauskas, LCMHC, MA, Counselor
Marie Leskauskas
Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Each person is a unique individual whose life and experience is different from anyone else, and deserves to be addressed with unconditional positive regard for themselves and their circumstances. This is why I place an emphasis on authenticity and the importance of understanding each person as a whole, focusing on healing through the integration of mental, physical, and spiritual health. As a therapist, I will involve strategies and techniques including CBT, sandtray and sandplay, motivational interviewing, addressing the mind and body connection, and the incorporation of ongoing psychoeducation.
Each person is a unique individual whose life and experience is different from anyone else, and deserves to be addressed with unconditional positive regard for themselves and their circumstances. This is why I place an emphasis on authenticity and the importance of understanding each person as a whole, focusing on healing through the integration of mental, physical, and spiritual health. As a therapist, I will involve strategies and techniques including CBT, sandtray and sandplay, motivational interviewing, addressing the mind and body connection, and the incorporation of ongoing psychoeducation.
(980) 575-5082 View (980) 575-5082
Photo of Tyler Kramer, LCMHC, Counselor
Tyler Kramer
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Have you ever felt as though everything that you’ve planned for in your life is falling apart piece by piece? Sometimes when this is happening we feel as though we are alone. What if the answer is right in front of us and we just can’t find it? Sometimes it helps to have a second person, someone to walk the journey along side you, someone who won’t judge you but will walk with you side by side to help guide you to find that missing piece. I want to work with you where you are at and help you achieve the goals you want to achieve. Together as a team we will work step by step to achieve a happier and healthier life.
Have you ever felt as though everything that you’ve planned for in your life is falling apart piece by piece? Sometimes when this is happening we feel as though we are alone. What if the answer is right in front of us and we just can’t find it? Sometimes it helps to have a second person, someone to walk the journey along side you, someone who won’t judge you but will walk with you side by side to help guide you to find that missing piece. I want to work with you where you are at and help you achieve the goals you want to achieve. Together as a team we will work step by step to achieve a happier and healthier life.
(980) 220-4639 View (980) 220-4639
Photo of Dr. Randi Konikoff, PhD, LCMHC, LPC, LCAS, BCTMHC
Dr. Randi Konikoff
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHC, LPC, LCAS, BCTMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078  (Online Only)
Dr. Randi Konikoff has a passion for helping clients to become students of themselves, thereby learning how to use their mind, body, and spirit in healthy and self-edifying ways. She is a Board Certified National Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Certified Clinical Military Counselor, Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor, Certified Hypnotherapy Instructor, Certified Employee Assistance Professional, Certified Tele-Mental Health Counselor, Certified Brain Health Coach, Neuro-Psychotherapist. She is licensed in NC, SC, GA and VA.
Dr. Randi Konikoff has a passion for helping clients to become students of themselves, thereby learning how to use their mind, body, and spirit in healthy and self-edifying ways. She is a Board Certified National Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Certified Clinical Military Counselor, Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor, Certified Hypnotherapy Instructor, Certified Employee Assistance Professional, Certified Tele-Mental Health Counselor, Certified Brain Health Coach, Neuro-Psychotherapist. She is licensed in NC, SC, GA and VA.
(704) 228-4001 View (704) 228-4001
Photo of Victoria 'tori' M. Torres, LCMHCS, CDTLF, NCC, BC-TMH, ACS
Victoria 'tori' M. Torres
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS, CDTLF, NCC, BC-TMH, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
If you are struggling to love the life you are living, counseling can help. The many roles we take on can easily create stress and make us lose our focus, but you are a valuable individual and deserve happiness. As a counselor, I will work to empower you to meet your goals in a supportive and encouraging environment with a variety of techniques and skills. As a Board Certified Telemental Health Provider, I am able to meet with clients via secure video in addition to meeting in my office.
If you are struggling to love the life you are living, counseling can help. The many roles we take on can easily create stress and make us lose our focus, but you are a valuable individual and deserve happiness. As a counselor, I will work to empower you to meet your goals in a supportive and encouraging environment with a variety of techniques and skills. As a Board Certified Telemental Health Provider, I am able to meet with clients via secure video in addition to meeting in my office.
(704) 419-8546 View (704) 419-8546
Photo of Danielle Houston Coleman, MSW, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Houston Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
The mission of social work is rooted in the following core values: service, social justice, dignity & worth of person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence. I whole heartedly believe in these values and make an intentional effort to sincerely help every client I have the privilege to work with. I respect and understand that therapy may be a difficult experience, however I believe that addressing sensitive and uncomfortable topics is necessary for healing, growth and healthy change.
The mission of social work is rooted in the following core values: service, social justice, dignity & worth of person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence. I whole heartedly believe in these values and make an intentional effort to sincerely help every client I have the privilege to work with. I respect and understand that therapy may be a difficult experience, however I believe that addressing sensitive and uncomfortable topics is necessary for healing, growth and healthy change.
(704) 327-3671 x705 View (704) 327-3671 x705
Photo of Annie Day (Elizabeth Day), MA, LCMHCA, MBA
Annie Day (Elizabeth Day)
LCMHC Associate, MA, LCMHCA, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Are you feeling exhausted, defeated, or overwhelmed? Does your best feel like it's never enough? I’m glad you’re here. Our darkest or most hectic times are often when we feel the most isolated and unheard. Therapy can help you find the light you need, and help you reconnect to the world and yourself. Pause, and give yourself credit for taking a step toward bettering your mental health today. I believe that you already have the strength & resilience within you to heal and grow, sometimes we all just need some help. Above all else, I want you to know that it’s okay not to be okay & that it’s possible for things to get better.
Are you feeling exhausted, defeated, or overwhelmed? Does your best feel like it's never enough? I’m glad you’re here. Our darkest or most hectic times are often when we feel the most isolated and unheard. Therapy can help you find the light you need, and help you reconnect to the world and yourself. Pause, and give yourself credit for taking a step toward bettering your mental health today. I believe that you already have the strength & resilience within you to heal and grow, sometimes we all just need some help. Above all else, I want you to know that it’s okay not to be okay & that it’s possible for things to get better.
(704) 228-9172 View (704) 228-9172
Photo of Tiffany Buie Chepke, LCSW, IHWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Buie Chepke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, IHWC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the chaos of life, stressed over relationships, alone even when surrounded by others? The first step to taking control of life is the hardest, and I would love the opportunity to help you reach your optimal life vision.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the chaos of life, stressed over relationships, alone even when surrounded by others? The first step to taking control of life is the hardest, and I would love the opportunity to help you reach your optimal life vision.
(704) 800-3816 View (704) 800-3816
Photo of Monica L Mouer, MS, LCMHCS, CSAT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monica L Mouer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Life is meant to be enjoyed, not endured. If you lack satisfaction in your life, counseling can help. I have a passion to see individuals live to their full potential with peace of mind, purpose in action and joy for everyday living. With over 15 years experience in counseling, education and pastoral ministry combined, I offer an educated perspective on many life issues. I am a trained in many trauma based and relational/family approaches to wholeness. I have extensive experience in working with teens and their families, couples and women's issues especially trauma, anger, emotional regulation, anxiety & depression.
Life is meant to be enjoyed, not endured. If you lack satisfaction in your life, counseling can help. I have a passion to see individuals live to their full potential with peace of mind, purpose in action and joy for everyday living. With over 15 years experience in counseling, education and pastoral ministry combined, I offer an educated perspective on many life issues. I am a trained in many trauma based and relational/family approaches to wholeness. I have extensive experience in working with teens and their families, couples and women's issues especially trauma, anger, emotional regulation, anxiety & depression.
(704) 869-2018 View (704) 869-2018
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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.