Chronic Pain Therapists in New Bern, NC
![Photo of Natalie Newton Johnston Pain Management, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ec1eceb-9854-4fc7-8ffb-09ac71a34e08/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cognitive-behavioral, individualized therapy approaches. I am part of our excellent pain clinic team, but I also treat stress, anxiety and depression issues unrelated to chronic pain. Please be aware that psychologists are required to report abuse of dependent persons or minors. Please do NOT leave personal issue information in your email or voicemail as a symptom will suffice such as "grief" or "anxiety." You will be contacted by our front desk. Thank you.
Cognitive-behavioral, individualized therapy approaches. I am part of our excellent pain clinic team, but I also treat stress, anxiety and depression issues unrelated to chronic pain. Please be aware that psychologists are required to report abuse of dependent persons or minors. Please do NOT leave personal issue information in your email or voicemail as a symptom will suffice such as "grief" or "anxiety." You will be contacted by our front desk. Thank you.
![Photo of Debra A Midyette, PhD, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/108c2f3b-82b1-44a2-93bb-6f0958d1603d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Debra A Midyette
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, post-partum issues, trauma, grief, & chronic pain.
Accepting New Clients: Are old negative behavior patterns or memories of traumatizing events interfering with your enjoyment of life? Do you feel disconnected from your true purpose? Let’s work together to help you transform your thoughts, achieve your goals, and live a meaningful life!
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, post-partum issues, trauma, grief, & chronic pain.
Accepting New Clients: Are old negative behavior patterns or memories of traumatizing events interfering with your enjoyment of life? Do you feel disconnected from your true purpose? Let’s work together to help you transform your thoughts, achieve your goals, and live a meaningful life!
![Photo of Michele Ruhmann, MA, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b414d315-7da7-4b46-a420-2e93801be93f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Ruhmann
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28560
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is on working with people who are experiencing anxiety, pain, trauma recovery, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained, stuck and you don’t know what to do or where to turn next? Moving forward can sometimes feel daunting but you can do it. Begin to take back your power today! You can learn to manage the chaos, calm those defeating thoughts, ease the tension in your body and begin to feel positive. Your story has a purpose and is as unique as you are, we will work together to create a tailored therapy experience to meet your goals incorporating parts work (IFS-informed), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), somatic bodywork, and traditional talk therapy.
My focus is on working with people who are experiencing anxiety, pain, trauma recovery, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained, stuck and you don’t know what to do or where to turn next? Moving forward can sometimes feel daunting but you can do it. Begin to take back your power today! You can learn to manage the chaos, calm those defeating thoughts, ease the tension in your body and begin to feel positive. Your story has a purpose and is as unique as you are, we will work together to create a tailored therapy experience to meet your goals incorporating parts work (IFS-informed), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), somatic bodywork, and traditional talk therapy.
![Photo of Olinda Davidson, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa5f58b7-3edc-415e-9339-7718ffe1d283/4/320x400.jpeg)
You may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious from trying to hold it all together for everyone and everything. You put on a “happy” face and push through the day only to wonder if you will ever feel better. Until now, you’ve been able to manage it on your own, but it’s starting to affect other areas of your life and you can’t pretend everything is ok anymore. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, a relationship or health concerns but wherever the pain is coming from you are tired of feeling alone and stuck. You want to make lasting changes, but deciding where to start feels impossible. I’m here and I get it.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious from trying to hold it all together for everyone and everything. You put on a “happy” face and push through the day only to wonder if you will ever feel better. Until now, you’ve been able to manage it on your own, but it’s starting to affect other areas of your life and you can’t pretend everything is ok anymore. Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, a relationship or health concerns but wherever the pain is coming from you are tired of feeling alone and stuck. You want to make lasting changes, but deciding where to start feels impossible. I’m here and I get it.
![Photo of Teresa Vaughan, LCMHC, LPC, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22f4e0a3-43ed-44f8-a78c-fc81c88bd782/1/320x400.jpeg)
Teresa Vaughan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562 (Online Only)
I am grounded in CBT, but also believe in the power of art and movement in the healing of emotional pain.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change. Please note services are 100% virtual at this time.
I am grounded in CBT, but also believe in the power of art and movement in the healing of emotional pain.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change. Please note services are 100% virtual at this time.
![Photo of Karen R Liddell, PhD, LCPC, Rev, Pastoral Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04a95171-9038-452b-b8a6-f928d7a87d91/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karen R Liddell
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LCPC, Rev
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28560 (Online Only)
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
![Photo of Cynthia Lewis Gaskins - Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC , LCMHCS , LCAS, CCS, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7dede041-aa9e-4977-ad68-559b4d7f31ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LCMHCS , LCAS, CCS, LPC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562 (Online Only)
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
![Photo of Patricia A Toth, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dc7690a-227d-4186-9102-29973bec0968/3/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia A Toth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28560 (Online Only)
Rather than identifying and categorizing the presence or absence of symptoms of illness, my practice seeks to uncover the psychological health in my clients.
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
Rather than identifying and categorizing the presence or absence of symptoms of illness, my practice seeks to uncover the psychological health in my clients.
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
![Photo of Marcy Arnold, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e36f35d-0e68-4f5b-9531-4566478fa643/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marcy Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562 (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
![Photo of Inna K Porter, MEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d4744e9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inna K Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
I believe counseling is a process by which we gain insight into ourselves.It is my responsibility to provide you with a safe environment to explore your thoughts and feelings. I use a combination of therapies, cognitive behavioral, reality based, person centered and motivational interviewing. I understand that every individual &situation is different, I will adapt to best fit the you. We will look at your cognitions and behaviors, to understand where you are and where you hope to be. My goal is to provide you with the strength to succeed, & with tangible resources and techniques that you can use outside of the counseling session.
I believe counseling is a process by which we gain insight into ourselves.It is my responsibility to provide you with a safe environment to explore your thoughts and feelings. I use a combination of therapies, cognitive behavioral, reality based, person centered and motivational interviewing. I understand that every individual &situation is different, I will adapt to best fit the you. We will look at your cognitions and behaviors, to understand where you are and where you hope to be. My goal is to provide you with the strength to succeed, & with tangible resources and techniques that you can use outside of the counseling session.
![Photo of Shelagh Patricia Murphy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67872690-6881-4cb3-bf0e-67f4fafe18f6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shelagh Patricia Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562 (Online Only)
Supporting individuals in their personal evolution, assisting them in developing healthier coping mechanisms, and enhancing self-awareness and self-acceptance is my calling. I enjoy collaborating with anyone who is committed to personal growth and open communication; as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I particularly enjoy working with others in the queer community. I have 12 years of experience providing support to individuals and families facing a broad range of challenges including depression, anxiety, medical issues, end-of-life care/hospice, recovery from abusive situations, trauma, and significant life changes.
Supporting individuals in their personal evolution, assisting them in developing healthier coping mechanisms, and enhancing self-awareness and self-acceptance is my calling. I enjoy collaborating with anyone who is committed to personal growth and open communication; as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I particularly enjoy working with others in the queer community. I have 12 years of experience providing support to individuals and families facing a broad range of challenges including depression, anxiety, medical issues, end-of-life care/hospice, recovery from abusive situations, trauma, and significant life changes.
![Photo of Aurey Rodriguez, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/759ec43d-43b4-4856-9668-ac512e5db1dd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Aurey Rodriguez
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
Waitlist for new clients
This journey that we call life can be bumpy and many times unpredictable, but with the right tools you will be equipped to tackle what may come your way ( life transitions, anxiety, motherhood, self-esteem, negative mindsets, people pleasers, and much more) I'm here to walk alongside you, provide a safe space that will enable you to voice out all those hidden emotions, identify patterns and triggers and empower you to make healthy decisions in life. Ofresco Terapia en Español.
This journey that we call life can be bumpy and many times unpredictable, but with the right tools you will be equipped to tackle what may come your way ( life transitions, anxiety, motherhood, self-esteem, negative mindsets, people pleasers, and much more) I'm here to walk alongside you, provide a safe space that will enable you to voice out all those hidden emotions, identify patterns and triggers and empower you to make healthy decisions in life. Ofresco Terapia en Español.
![Photo of Irma Abrego-Lappin, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9f2d227-260e-4a16-b793-bf37311dddeb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Irma Abrego-Lappin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28560
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, I believe people have deep-rooted aspirations for well-being in many areas of their lives, including emotional, physical, social, and spiritual wellness. I strive to make a safe and trusting relationship with clients so that they can improve in each of these areas and feel more balanced and fulfilled. I collaboratively work with clients, valuing their unique strengths, interests, and aspirations. I enjoy working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, grief, life transitions, career/vocational concerns, spirituality, weight management and body image concerns, and relationship issues.
As a therapist, I believe people have deep-rooted aspirations for well-being in many areas of their lives, including emotional, physical, social, and spiritual wellness. I strive to make a safe and trusting relationship with clients so that they can improve in each of these areas and feel more balanced and fulfilled. I collaboratively work with clients, valuing their unique strengths, interests, and aspirations. I enjoy working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, grief, life transitions, career/vocational concerns, spirituality, weight management and body image concerns, and relationship issues.
![Photo of Christina Witmer, MA, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a0cfbe9-1014-4e72-a4a5-e1de8b312e08/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Witmer
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28560
Congratulations on taking the step to consider therapy! My approach to the process is Person-Centered, neurodiverse affirming, and unique to your specific needs. Founded in scientifically proven theory, a holistic approach is considered which include biological, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual aspects. I often use techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Internal Family Systems. Operating from these perspectives I offer you a tailored experience. Your needs and well-being will always be the focus, in a safe and non-judgmental space for exploring, learning, and fostering deeper connections.
Congratulations on taking the step to consider therapy! My approach to the process is Person-Centered, neurodiverse affirming, and unique to your specific needs. Founded in scientifically proven theory, a holistic approach is considered which include biological, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual aspects. I often use techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Internal Family Systems. Operating from these perspectives I offer you a tailored experience. Your needs and well-being will always be the focus, in a safe and non-judgmental space for exploring, learning, and fostering deeper connections.
![Photo of Ashley J. Britton, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3def4eaf-67cc-4522-8bf7-a02f181d13f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley J. Britton
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28560 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I'm a licensed clinical health psychologist specializing in the treatment of persons with co-occurring medical conditions and mental health problems. These issues are typically related to and separate from various traumas, pre-/post-surgery adjustment or complications, new medical diagnoses or treatment (cancer, chemo, amputation), a complex medical course, displacement, &/or prolonged hospitalization. I specialize in anxiety/mood issues, insomnia, stress management, acute trauma, health behavior change and weight loss, chronic pain, smoking cessation & relapse prevention.
I'm a licensed clinical health psychologist specializing in the treatment of persons with co-occurring medical conditions and mental health problems. These issues are typically related to and separate from various traumas, pre-/post-surgery adjustment or complications, new medical diagnoses or treatment (cancer, chemo, amputation), a complex medical course, displacement, &/or prolonged hospitalization. I specialize in anxiety/mood issues, insomnia, stress management, acute trauma, health behavior change and weight loss, chronic pain, smoking cessation & relapse prevention.
![Photo of Karen Tompkins, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/505668f5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Tompkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28560 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Over 30 years' experience helping people with emotional pain, trauma, fear, anxiety, depression, confusion, grief, esteem, stress, and life changes including heart break and narcissistic abuse. I can assist you in using your personal strengths, develop new coping skills and strategies that you can, immediately use to feel better and live fully.
Over 30 years' experience helping people with emotional pain, trauma, fear, anxiety, depression, confusion, grief, esteem, stress, and life changes including heart break and narcissistic abuse. I can assist you in using your personal strengths, develop new coping skills and strategies that you can, immediately use to feel better and live fully.
![Photo of Janet Savia, PsyD, MSPH, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54d701ef-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Janet Savia
Psychological Associate, PsyD, MSPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
Not accepting new clients
Life can be hard. No matter how healthy, smart, hardworking or successful we may be, we can find ourselves facing unexpected challenges and feeling overwhelmed or confused. I work with adults of all ages and walks of life. Some are depressed or anxious or angry or grieving. Some want to grow or understand themselves better. If you want to grow; if you are struggling; if your challenge is too complex to work through on your own; if you do not want to burden family or friends; then working with a therapist can be helpful and emotionally safe.
Life can be hard. No matter how healthy, smart, hardworking or successful we may be, we can find ourselves facing unexpected challenges and feeling overwhelmed or confused. I work with adults of all ages and walks of life. Some are depressed or anxious or angry or grieving. Some want to grow or understand themselves better. If you want to grow; if you are struggling; if your challenge is too complex to work through on your own; if you do not want to burden family or friends; then working with a therapist can be helpful and emotionally safe.
![Photo of Montez Vaughn, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37bb63fb-41f3-461a-8d8d-b83ae38689bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal as a therapist is to empower you meet to your potential and live your life as healthy and fulfilled as possible - focusing on the mind, body, and spiritual orientations. I value and honor diverse cultures and treatment goals. In addition to therapy, I offer in-depth attention-deficit assessment to help develop appropriate coping strategies.
My goal as a therapist is to empower you meet to your potential and live your life as healthy and fulfilled as possible - focusing on the mind, body, and spiritual orientations. I value and honor diverse cultures and treatment goals. In addition to therapy, I offer in-depth attention-deficit assessment to help develop appropriate coping strategies.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Gloria M Brown, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e5494b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed therapist with 25+ years of experience. I see adults and adolescents who are ready to work on issues that have a negative impact on their lives and emotional health. I combine a holistic mind/body/spirit approach using positive, solution-focused therapy methods, as well as cognitive behavioral strategies and the many tools from the 12-Step Programs. I work with individuals having problems with addiction, alcoholism, anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, anger, bipolar I and II disorders, cyclothymic disorder, depression, chronic pain and health issues, kleptomania, excoriation, self-injury, trichotillomania, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
I am a licensed therapist with 25+ years of experience. I see adults and adolescents who are ready to work on issues that have a negative impact on their lives and emotional health. I combine a holistic mind/body/spirit approach using positive, solution-focused therapy methods, as well as cognitive behavioral strategies and the many tools from the 12-Step Programs. I work with individuals having problems with addiction, alcoholism, anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, anger, bipolar I and II disorders, cyclothymic disorder, depression, chronic pain and health issues, kleptomania, excoriation, self-injury, trichotillomania, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
![Photo of Jean Hansson, MSW, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/422be7aa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychotherapist with many years on mental health experience. My clientele is adults, 16 and up. Areas of practice focus are anxiety and depression, chronic pain, grief, traumatic loss, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and adult ADHD. I'm trained in the therapy modalities of hypnotherapy, EMDR Exposure (CBT), and Emotional Freedom Technique - an energy psychology method. In helping clients break old habits, I'm a licensed provider of Trim Life, a weight loss program using hypnosis. Another program is Clean Break for smoking cessation.
I am a psychotherapist with many years on mental health experience. My clientele is adults, 16 and up. Areas of practice focus are anxiety and depression, chronic pain, grief, traumatic loss, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and adult ADHD. I'm trained in the therapy modalities of hypnotherapy, EMDR Exposure (CBT), and Emotional Freedom Technique - an energy psychology method. In helping clients break old habits, I'm a licensed provider of Trim Life, a weight loss program using hypnosis. Another program is Clean Break for smoking cessation.
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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.