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Online Therapists

Photo of Laura Kotlowski, LPC, LCDC, NCC, CCTP, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Kotlowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78259
I feel privileged & blessed to witness clients' change processes. I seek to use therapy modalities that work best for individualized client care, & I am grateful to serve in settings that align perfectly with my beliefs in achieving recovery. I am humbled to witness the healing that occurs in therapy where there was previously confusion, pain, & hopelessness. It is my life's passion to support & encourage others.
I feel privileged & blessed to witness clients' change processes. I seek to use therapy modalities that work best for individualized client care, & I am grateful to serve in settings that align perfectly with my beliefs in achieving recovery. I am humbled to witness the healing that occurs in therapy where there was previously confusion, pain, & hopelessness. It is my life's passion to support & encourage others.
(210) 791-6972 View (210) 791-6972
Photo of Maranda Medina, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maranda Medina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I specialize in working with adult (18+) individuals facing a variety of challenges, including grief, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, trauma, stress management, self-esteem, identity issues, life transitions, and more.
Welcome! My name is Maranda and I believe finding the right therapist is crucial, akin to finding a life partner. I view therapy as a collaborative partnership, where we work together to achieve your goals while tapping into your inherent strengths. I believe that laughter, along with tears, is an important part of the healing process. In sessions, I bring curiosity and honesty, meeting you where you are and guiding you in challenging outdated beliefs. My philosophy is that therapy is simply for those who have exhausted their current coping skills and need to learn new ones.
I specialize in working with adult (18+) individuals facing a variety of challenges, including grief, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, trauma, stress management, self-esteem, identity issues, life transitions, and more.
Welcome! My name is Maranda and I believe finding the right therapist is crucial, akin to finding a life partner. I view therapy as a collaborative partnership, where we work together to achieve your goals while tapping into your inherent strengths. I believe that laughter, along with tears, is an important part of the healing process. In sessions, I bring curiosity and honesty, meeting you where you are and guiding you in challenging outdated beliefs. My philosophy is that therapy is simply for those who have exhausted their current coping skills and need to learn new ones.
(737) 352-4040 View (737) 352-4040
Photo of Erin Jones - Erin Jones, M.A, M.Ed, LPC, Healthy Horizons, LLC , MA, MEd, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Jones, M.A, M.Ed, LPC, Healthy Horizons, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boerne, TX 78006
Everyone feels lost, suffers grief, loss, & anxiety about where they are in life sometimes, maybe due to trauma, disability, chronic, or terminal illness. We are not meant to walk through these difficult times alone. Is parenting children with disability or ADHD leaving you feeling exhausted? Are you feeling overwhelmed trying to find balance in your life? I see you, I hear you! We all have a story and need to be heard, validated, & sometimes we need help navigating those times that blindside us! Perhaps past trauma is bubbling up into current relationships? You're not alone, Licensed in TX & CO, let's figure it out together!
Everyone feels lost, suffers grief, loss, & anxiety about where they are in life sometimes, maybe due to trauma, disability, chronic, or terminal illness. We are not meant to walk through these difficult times alone. Is parenting children with disability or ADHD leaving you feeling exhausted? Are you feeling overwhelmed trying to find balance in your life? I see you, I hear you! We all have a story and need to be heard, validated, & sometimes we need help navigating those times that blindside us! Perhaps past trauma is bubbling up into current relationships? You're not alone, Licensed in TX & CO, let's figure it out together!
(970) 323-2494 View (970) 323-2494
Photo of Faith A Perez - Red Apple Therapy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Red Apple Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701  (Online Only)
I specialize in treatment of military service members active duty and veterans, LGBTQIA+, sex related issues, kink positive, depression, trauma and PTSD, anxiety, ADHD and those with severe mental illness.
My name is Faith and I work with individuals and couples facing a range of concerns to include depression, trauma, abuse, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues, sex related issues, sexuality, and other life issues. I will work to meet you where you are in your journey. Red Apple Therapy offers alternative therapies for those searching for a holistic and eclectic approach to counseling, including ecotherapy and mindfulness practices. Our goal is to assist you in meeting your goal by providing a safe, authentic and compassionate clinical setting with an individualized therapy experience.
I specialize in treatment of military service members active duty and veterans, LGBTQIA+, sex related issues, kink positive, depression, trauma and PTSD, anxiety, ADHD and those with severe mental illness.
My name is Faith and I work with individuals and couples facing a range of concerns to include depression, trauma, abuse, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues, sex related issues, sexuality, and other life issues. I will work to meet you where you are in your journey. Red Apple Therapy offers alternative therapies for those searching for a holistic and eclectic approach to counseling, including ecotherapy and mindfulness practices. Our goal is to assist you in meeting your goal by providing a safe, authentic and compassionate clinical setting with an individualized therapy experience.
(512) 980-1226 View (512) 980-1226
Photo of Brianna 'bri' Hamlyn, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brianna 'bri' Hamlyn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704  (Online Only)
Areas of focus: trauma, depression, neurodivergence, chronic illness, and relational stress.
Things kind of suck right now, don't they? At the time of writing this, the word feels like it's a dumpster fire. If you're like me though, things have always felt rough internally and connection has never been easy. I hope to offer connection and unconditional positive regard for anyone whose ever felt like they're on the outside looking in. The vision I hold for all clients is to know they are worthy and valid exactly as they are in this moment, and my role is to hold that belief for you until you can hold it yourself. I practice from an anti-racist, relational cultural, fat-positive, and generally affirming lens.
Areas of focus: trauma, depression, neurodivergence, chronic illness, and relational stress.
Things kind of suck right now, don't they? At the time of writing this, the word feels like it's a dumpster fire. If you're like me though, things have always felt rough internally and connection has never been easy. I hope to offer connection and unconditional positive regard for anyone whose ever felt like they're on the outside looking in. The vision I hold for all clients is to know they are worthy and valid exactly as they are in this moment, and my role is to hold that belief for you until you can hold it yourself. I practice from an anti-racist, relational cultural, fat-positive, and generally affirming lens.
(512) 859-6502 View (512) 859-6502
Photo of Carmen Ranalli Morrison - Lifegrowth Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist
Lifegrowth Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76710
I view persons as made up of emotions, thoughts, relationships, biology, and our spiritual selves. Consequently, I first help you stabilize by making necessary changes in behavior. Medical or neurological contributions and possible nutritional deficiencies are examined. I address any distorted thinking that is contributing to your emotional pain. If systems in your life (family, work, school) are a factor, they are also addressed. Finally, we work with the larger questions of existence (spiritual issues, issues of purpose/ meaning), which are all vital to mental health. All areas are dealt with from a solid grounding in scientific literature and research.
I view persons as made up of emotions, thoughts, relationships, biology, and our spiritual selves. Consequently, I first help you stabilize by making necessary changes in behavior. Medical or neurological contributions and possible nutritional deficiencies are examined. I address any distorted thinking that is contributing to your emotional pain. If systems in your life (family, work, school) are a factor, they are also addressed. Finally, we work with the larger questions of existence (spiritual issues, issues of purpose/ meaning), which are all vital to mental health. All areas are dealt with from a solid grounding in scientific literature and research.
(866) 273-8059 x2 View (866) 273-8059 x2
Photo of Ann DeYoung - DeYoung Counseling, PLLC, LCSW, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
DeYoung Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78741  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, relationship concerns, stress, isolation, chronic illness, compassion fatigue, grief and loss, sleep issues, self-esteem, self-compassion, parenting issues, and career transition.
Life can feel overwhelming at times and can be difficult to manage. Unexpected change can challenge our ability to navigate. Thankfully, you don’t have to navigate life’s transitions alone. I'm passionate about working with my clients to gain an understanding of both past and present stressors, while discovering tools for healing and growth. Investing time into better understanding and developing yourself is one of the most pivotal decisions you can make. Self-awareness and self-care are important for success. Together we can explore what gives your life purpose, hope and meaning and discover new paths for living your best life.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, relationship concerns, stress, isolation, chronic illness, compassion fatigue, grief and loss, sleep issues, self-esteem, self-compassion, parenting issues, and career transition.
Life can feel overwhelming at times and can be difficult to manage. Unexpected change can challenge our ability to navigate. Thankfully, you don’t have to navigate life’s transitions alone. I'm passionate about working with my clients to gain an understanding of both past and present stressors, while discovering tools for healing and growth. Investing time into better understanding and developing yourself is one of the most pivotal decisions you can make. Self-awareness and self-care are important for success. Together we can explore what gives your life purpose, hope and meaning and discover new paths for living your best life.
(512) 967-6596 View (512) 967-6596
Photo of Sarah Carli Jones - Carli Jones, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carli Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216  (Online Only)
We all have challenging and overwhelming times in our life and struggling with mental illness only I makes it harder.
I have experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, abuse, PTSD, stress management, school issues, psychosis and relational issues. I work with clients who are looking to learn coping skills, improve communication with friends and/or family, process past or current abuse/trauma, or just have someone to talk things over with.
We all have challenging and overwhelming times in our life and struggling with mental illness only I makes it harder.
I have experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, abuse, PTSD, stress management, school issues, psychosis and relational issues. I work with clients who are looking to learn coping skills, improve communication with friends and/or family, process past or current abuse/trauma, or just have someone to talk things over with.
(210) 756-2961 View (210) 756-2961
Photo of Linda Ludden - The Ludden Group, P.C., EdD, Psy, LPC-S, Psychologist
The Ludden Group, P.C.
Psychologist, EdD, Psy, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78664
I have more than twenty five years experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics in individual, marital, family, and groups in the field of counseling health services. My experience includes consulting in inpatient psychiatric and hospitals, medical/surgical hospitals, nursing homes, pain management clinics, and private practice. I also specialize in career testing and counseling for high school students, college students, and in career transition for adults. I have served as a psychologist and director of a Christian counseling center for eight years and as a psychologist and manager for the employee assistance program for Methodist Hospitals of Dallas.
I have more than twenty five years experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics in individual, marital, family, and groups in the field of counseling health services. My experience includes consulting in inpatient psychiatric and hospitals, medical/surgical hospitals, nursing homes, pain management clinics, and private practice. I also specialize in career testing and counseling for high school students, college students, and in career transition for adults. I have served as a psychologist and director of a Christian counseling center for eight years and as a psychologist and manager for the employee assistance program for Methodist Hospitals of Dallas.
(972) 646-2801 View (972) 646-2801
Photo of Brittany Attwood - Rise Counseling and Coaching LLC, MA, NCC
Rise Counseling and Coaching LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76710  (Online Only)
I most enjoy working with children & adults who have experienced trauma, grief,& chronic illness.
I'm passionate about making the therapeutic experience inclusive, collaborative, & hope-filled for all. You may have experienced a traumatic event or traumatic relationship, either recently or in the past, and are wondering when you are ever going to feel like yourself again. You may even be experiencing anxiety, grief, depression or trouble sleeping on a daily basis. Or maybe you aren't here for yourself. Perhaps you are looking to find help for your child who is struggling with self-esteem, dealing with a trauma themselves, or living with a disability. Whatever the issue concerning you today, I commend you for being here!
I most enjoy working with children & adults who have experienced trauma, grief,& chronic illness.
I'm passionate about making the therapeutic experience inclusive, collaborative, & hope-filled for all. You may have experienced a traumatic event or traumatic relationship, either recently or in the past, and are wondering when you are ever going to feel like yourself again. You may even be experiencing anxiety, grief, depression or trouble sleeping on a daily basis. Or maybe you aren't here for yourself. Perhaps you are looking to find help for your child who is struggling with self-esteem, dealing with a trauma themselves, or living with a disability. Whatever the issue concerning you today, I commend you for being here!
(254) 218-4161 View (254) 218-4161
Photo of Rachel Humphries, NCC
Rachel Humphries
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bastrop, TX 78602  (Online Only)
My unique experience in medicine has given me an understanding of life changing chronic illness and injuries.
Are you suffering from chronic illness? You need a provider that understands the difficulty in dragging yourself through the doctor's appointments, repeated explanations of your symptoms, the long wait times for specialists and tests, and the struggle of having to find a new doctor because you aren't feeling heard. You are trying to create a balance between living your life and managing your symptoms. You need someone who believes you and understands what you are going through. You need a therapist who knows how the system works and can walk with you through this part of life.
My unique experience in medicine has given me an understanding of life changing chronic illness and injuries.
Are you suffering from chronic illness? You need a provider that understands the difficulty in dragging yourself through the doctor's appointments, repeated explanations of your symptoms, the long wait times for specialists and tests, and the struggle of having to find a new doctor because you aren't feeling heard. You are trying to create a balance between living your life and managing your symptoms. You need someone who believes you and understands what you are going through. You need a therapist who knows how the system works and can walk with you through this part of life.
(737) 252-1275 View (737) 252-1275
Photo of Jessie Tirrell, LCSW-S, BAS, TBRI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessie Tirrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, BAS, TBRI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I've spent 19 years helping adults, families, and children face their anxiety, grow from their pain, and believe in themselves with warmth and no judgment.
Are you feeling stuck and ready to live like you again? Living with anxiety can be crippling. Watching your child struggle with anxiety locked away from your efforts to help is overwhelming. If your anxiety runs the show you know you miss out on friends, family, and unlocking your potential. If your child is struggling they may be having behaviors that you KNOW are not them but you can't seem to get a handle on. Anxious or traumatized kids are often acting out kids and getting them to talk about the real problems can feel impossible. If you're an adult with trauma you may not have learned how to do that either. You can be better.
I've spent 19 years helping adults, families, and children face their anxiety, grow from their pain, and believe in themselves with warmth and no judgment.
Are you feeling stuck and ready to live like you again? Living with anxiety can be crippling. Watching your child struggle with anxiety locked away from your efforts to help is overwhelming. If your anxiety runs the show you know you miss out on friends, family, and unlocking your potential. If your child is struggling they may be having behaviors that you KNOW are not them but you can't seem to get a handle on. Anxious or traumatized kids are often acting out kids and getting them to talk about the real problems can feel impossible. If you're an adult with trauma you may not have learned how to do that either. You can be better.
(682) 327-0469 View (682) 327-0469
Photo of Russel L Thompson, PhD, Psychologist
Russel L Thompson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232
I am a psychologist in a group of mental health clinicians. I have a PhD in psychology and have been licensed since 2003. My colleagues and I provide neuropsychological and psychological assessment and psychotherapy. Neuropsychological assessments help people with memory, attention, and learning problems. Psychological assessments are available for pre-surgical evaluations for medical treatments including spinal cord stimulators pain management, bariatric weight loss, and seizure control. My therapy roster is small and is focused on long-term, insight-oriented work. You can learn more about me and my colleagues at www.sa-mh.com
I am a psychologist in a group of mental health clinicians. I have a PhD in psychology and have been licensed since 2003. My colleagues and I provide neuropsychological and psychological assessment and psychotherapy. Neuropsychological assessments help people with memory, attention, and learning problems. Psychological assessments are available for pre-surgical evaluations for medical treatments including spinal cord stimulators pain management, bariatric weight loss, and seizure control. My therapy roster is small and is focused on long-term, insight-oriented work. You can learn more about me and my colleagues at www.sa-mh.com
(210) 853-5898 View (210) 853-5898
Photo of Iektje Dita van Bolhuis, PhD, Psychologist
Iektje Dita van Bolhuis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78745  (Online Only)
If you need help or are looking to make positive changes in your life or your relationship, you have come to the right place! I work with adults, teens, and couples who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, life transitions, chronic pain and illness, trauma, and with people who would just like to get along better with others and feel happier in their life. I believe you have everything you need inside you to heal and reach your goals. As a therapist I see my role as helping to bring these strengths out in you.
If you need help or are looking to make positive changes in your life or your relationship, you have come to the right place! I work with adults, teens, and couples who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, life transitions, chronic pain and illness, trauma, and with people who would just like to get along better with others and feel happier in their life. I believe you have everything you need inside you to heal and reach your goals. As a therapist I see my role as helping to bring these strengths out in you.
(512) 270-3578 View (512) 270-3578
Photo of Abigail Mcneely - Wellspring Behavioral Health, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Wellspring Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Whether you are suffering with emotional problems, dealing with a chronic illness that’s begun to limit your life, or you simply have goals you need help meeting, we can help you find your way forward.
At Wellspring Behavioral Health, we provide counseling, psychological and neuropsychological testing, including individual and family services for adults, adolescents, children, and families in Austin, Texas. We are a group of professionals working with clients addressing a broad range of concerns. Dr. McNeely leads the group and works with a general population. In addition to counseling, she specializes in psychological and neuropsychological evaluation and diagnostic services.
Whether you are suffering with emotional problems, dealing with a chronic illness that’s begun to limit your life, or you simply have goals you need help meeting, we can help you find your way forward.
At Wellspring Behavioral Health, we provide counseling, psychological and neuropsychological testing, including individual and family services for adults, adolescents, children, and families in Austin, Texas. We are a group of professionals working with clients addressing a broad range of concerns. Dr. McNeely leads the group and works with a general population. In addition to counseling, she specializes in psychological and neuropsychological evaluation and diagnostic services.
(833) 529-8515 View (833) 529-8515
Photo of Mal Diaz, MS, NCC, LPC
Mal Diaz
MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212  (Online Only)
Hi Folks! Book with me now by clicking on my website! :) My name is Mal, I'm deeply passionate about healthcare access, with my life's work centered around bridging the gap to accessible and dignified health care for all. With a strong background in promoting equity and inclusivity, I strive to create a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking guidance. My approach to counseling integrated empathy, deep curiosity, and evidence-based techniques, empowering clients to navigate life's challenges and foster personal growth. Send me a message and we can get that ball rolling!
Hi Folks! Book with me now by clicking on my website! :) My name is Mal, I'm deeply passionate about healthcare access, with my life's work centered around bridging the gap to accessible and dignified health care for all. With a strong background in promoting equity and inclusivity, I strive to create a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking guidance. My approach to counseling integrated empathy, deep curiosity, and evidence-based techniques, empowering clients to navigate life's challenges and foster personal growth. Send me a message and we can get that ball rolling!
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Photo of Barbara Wood - Three Oaks Counseling & Psychiatry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Three Oaks Counseling & Psychiatry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
We are a group of talented and experienced mental health clinicians that provides counseling and medication management all across Austin and greater Texas. We have offices in West Lake Hills, Georgetown, and Dripping Springs. We also provide telehealth service anywhere in Texas.
We are a group of talented and experienced mental health clinicians that provides counseling and medication management all across Austin and greater Texas. We have offices in West Lake Hills, Georgetown, and Dripping Springs. We also provide telehealth service anywhere in Texas.
(512) 772-5453 View (512) 772-5453
Photo of Allen Novian, PhD, LMFT, LPC-S, BCN, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allen Novian
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPC-S, BCN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
If you are struggling with anxiety, ADD/ADHD, OCD, learning disabilities, communication and relationship issues, recovering from divorce, or high functioning autistic (formerly ASD), then I am the right person for you. I strive in every encounter to: 1) listen to you in an attentive, genuine, non-judging manner 2) provide conversations that help you change and "re-story" negative patterns or relationships in your life 3) help you learn new skills and ways of thinking that will help you make positive change and 4) always respect your right to be an active participant in the counseling process.
If you are struggling with anxiety, ADD/ADHD, OCD, learning disabilities, communication and relationship issues, recovering from divorce, or high functioning autistic (formerly ASD), then I am the right person for you. I strive in every encounter to: 1) listen to you in an attentive, genuine, non-judging manner 2) provide conversations that help you change and "re-story" negative patterns or relationships in your life 3) help you learn new skills and ways of thinking that will help you make positive change and 4) always respect your right to be an active participant in the counseling process.
(210) 255-2015 View (210) 255-2015
Photo of Jamie Lopez Rodriguez, PsyD, Psychologist
Jamie Lopez Rodriguez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for reviewing my profile! It's important to find a therapist who is a good fit for you and the work you want to do. I work with a broad range of clients and find passion in working with those who have experienced trauma, are in the LGBTQ+ community, first responders, and anyone who is seeking to heal and grow personally. If you are experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, grief, fear, gender/identity issues, or other concerns, I would be happy to help! At times my caseload can get full, but you can be added to my waiting list or choose to work with one of the other great counselors in the practice!
Thank you for reviewing my profile! It's important to find a therapist who is a good fit for you and the work you want to do. I work with a broad range of clients and find passion in working with those who have experienced trauma, are in the LGBTQ+ community, first responders, and anyone who is seeking to heal and grow personally. If you are experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, grief, fear, gender/identity issues, or other concerns, I would be happy to help! At times my caseload can get full, but you can be added to my waiting list or choose to work with one of the other great counselors in the practice!
(737) 727-3653 View (737) 727-3653
Photo of Stacy Marshall, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacy Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that each person is the expert on themselves and their experiences, and my role is to be a supportive guide throughout the healing process. I always want our work together to be a collaborative process, so we will structure our time together around your goals. This is your space, and you get to decide how it looks. Some clients are looking to stay near the surface, and work on coping skills and solutions to daily life problems. Others want to explore further into their own past or their inner world.
I believe that each person is the expert on themselves and their experiences, and my role is to be a supportive guide throughout the healing process. I always want our work together to be a collaborative process, so we will structure our time together around your goals. This is your space, and you get to decide how it looks. Some clients are looking to stay near the surface, and work on coping skills and solutions to daily life problems. Others want to explore further into their own past or their inner world.
(737) 232-7468 View (737) 232-7468
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.