Therapists in Wilmington, NC

Photo of Kelsey Someliana-Lauer, Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Kelsey Someliana-Lauer
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28412  (Online Only)
A chronic pain or illness diagnosis can feel like your whole life has shifted. Relationships change, hobbies are lost, and independence looks different. You may be feeling depressed and hopeless about the future, wondering if life will ever look the same. You may still be deep in the grieving process. You may even be discovering that your childhood trauma could be correlated with your diagnosis, leaving you to process two traumas at once. The good news? You can still create a life worth living - a life where you can follow your values, even with pain and illness present.
A chronic pain or illness diagnosis can feel like your whole life has shifted. Relationships change, hobbies are lost, and independence looks different. You may be feeling depressed and hopeless about the future, wondering if life will ever look the same. You may still be deep in the grieving process. You may even be discovering that your childhood trauma could be correlated with your diagnosis, leaving you to process two traumas at once. The good news? You can still create a life worth living - a life where you can follow your values, even with pain and illness present.
(910) 812-3096 View (910) 812-3096
Photo of Shanna W Dickens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Shanna W Dickens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28409  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also passionate about helping to manage chronic illness, breaking codependence, recovering from narcissistic abuse and affirming neurodivergence.
As humans, we are always gravitating towards healing, trying to right ourselves and to shift from surviving back into living. But sometimes, we get stuck with uncomfortable emotions that we aren't exactly sure what to do with. In therapy, I offer a safe place to unpack all of that uncomfortable stuff and decide what is worth keeping and what is just too heavy to keep lugging around day after day. If you are ready to unpack, I am here for it. If you want to learn how to be assertive, how to set boundaries effectively and how to show up for yourself even when others can't or don't, I am absolutely on board.
I am also passionate about helping to manage chronic illness, breaking codependence, recovering from narcissistic abuse and affirming neurodivergence.
As humans, we are always gravitating towards healing, trying to right ourselves and to shift from surviving back into living. But sometimes, we get stuck with uncomfortable emotions that we aren't exactly sure what to do with. In therapy, I offer a safe place to unpack all of that uncomfortable stuff and decide what is worth keeping and what is just too heavy to keep lugging around day after day. If you are ready to unpack, I am here for it. If you want to learn how to be assertive, how to set boundaries effectively and how to show up for yourself even when others can't or don't, I am absolutely on board.
(910) 335-9101 View (910) 335-9101
Photo of Dr. Ralph Fox II, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Dr. Ralph Fox II
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
Anxiety, Marital Tensions, Desire, Fetish/Kink/Poly, Pain, ED, Confusion, LBGTQIA+, Apprehension, and more.
The world is very different in 2024 and can cause depression, trauma, anxiety, etc. You need a place to discuss things that you can't or shouldn't talk about w/friends & family. Let's determine your needs in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, grief, etc. Together we develop a plan. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again. Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through life's ups and downs. Helping Individuals & Couples find balance for over 35 years.
(910) 216-4872 View (910) 216-4872
Photo of Samantha Quiel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Samantha Quiel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
My specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, chronic illness, and survivors of interpersonal violence.
Accepting New Clients-I believe that we all face unique challenges throughout our lives. I provide a space for you to authentically be yourself, without judgment. I aim to forge a trusting relationship to help you feel comfortable discussing your most protected thoughts and feelings. I provide support as we process through tough times, ask questions, and work with you to find solutions to your challenges. There are no quick fixes, but developing life skills, improving self-respect, and connecting with loved ones can be key in building a positive path for your future. We will create a custom treatment plan that works best for you.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, chronic illness, and survivors of interpersonal violence.
Accepting New Clients-I believe that we all face unique challenges throughout our lives. I provide a space for you to authentically be yourself, without judgment. I aim to forge a trusting relationship to help you feel comfortable discussing your most protected thoughts and feelings. I provide support as we process through tough times, ask questions, and work with you to find solutions to your challenges. There are no quick fixes, but developing life skills, improving self-respect, and connecting with loved ones can be key in building a positive path for your future. We will create a custom treatment plan that works best for you.
(919) 289-4023 View (919) 289-4023
Photo of Miranda Slater, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Miranda Slater
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
I believe the foundation of healing and recovery begins with a strong therapeutic relationship where a safe environment can be a gateway to transformation and reaching one's full potential. I have a passion for instilling hope and assisting clients to recognize their strengths as I walk alongside of them in their journey towards healing. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I believe there are many facets to healing and I take a holistic approach where mind, body and spirit align, which can foster lasting healing.
I believe the foundation of healing and recovery begins with a strong therapeutic relationship where a safe environment can be a gateway to transformation and reaching one's full potential. I have a passion for instilling hope and assisting clients to recognize their strengths as I walk alongside of them in their journey towards healing. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I believe there are many facets to healing and I take a holistic approach where mind, body and spirit align, which can foster lasting healing.
(910) 887-3712 View (910) 887-3712
Photo of Tab Ballis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Tab Ballis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
My approach to the collaborative effort of psychotherapy is influenced by structural/strategic family systems theory, informing the process of joining with clients to clarify their roles in relationship, family, and community. Creative engagement in experiential learning assists individuals, couples, and families in gaining a fresh perspective through focused work that brings lasting results. I endeavor, in every client relationship, to de-mystify the daunting prospect of change, empowering personal choice in difficult circumstances through guided self-exploration.
My approach to the collaborative effort of psychotherapy is influenced by structural/strategic family systems theory, informing the process of joining with clients to clarify their roles in relationship, family, and community. Creative engagement in experiential learning assists individuals, couples, and families in gaining a fresh perspective through focused work that brings lasting results. I endeavor, in every client relationship, to de-mystify the daunting prospect of change, empowering personal choice in difficult circumstances through guided self-exploration.
(910) 684-5005 View (910) 684-5005
Photo of Charles Ogiba, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Charles Ogiba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
NEW Clients Accepted! Welcome to the beginning of your journey through change and fulfillment. Clients often come to therapy after many challenges. These can be longstanding emotional battles with depression, anxiety and traumatic experiences. Life can be difficult to face with multiple obstacles presenting at the same time. Engaging in a purposeful plan with guidance from an experienced therapist can help you to create a life that is more satisfying and can help you meet personal goals. Let's begin!
NEW Clients Accepted! Welcome to the beginning of your journey through change and fulfillment. Clients often come to therapy after many challenges. These can be longstanding emotional battles with depression, anxiety and traumatic experiences. Life can be difficult to face with multiple obstacles presenting at the same time. Engaging in a purposeful plan with guidance from an experienced therapist can help you to create a life that is more satisfying and can help you meet personal goals. Let's begin!
(910) 807-8620 View (910) 807-8620
Photo of Mary Engelstatter, Psychologist in Wilmington, NC
Mary Engelstatter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
Do you ever feel like you are putting on a happy face to get through the day, only to come home, emotionally drained, and just tired of faking it? Are you ready to take the next step but have spent so long feeling like a burden that speaking about your problems seems almost impossible? Starting therapy can be frightening and, for a lot of us, talking about our feelings doesn’t come easy. That's ok. (Seriously!) I want you to know that it's normal to feel nervous at first and that it is worth it to get your life back. Together, we will work towards helping you live a better life - however that may be defined for you.
Do you ever feel like you are putting on a happy face to get through the day, only to come home, emotionally drained, and just tired of faking it? Are you ready to take the next step but have spent so long feeling like a burden that speaking about your problems seems almost impossible? Starting therapy can be frightening and, for a lot of us, talking about our feelings doesn’t come easy. That's ok. (Seriously!) I want you to know that it's normal to feel nervous at first and that it is worth it to get your life back. Together, we will work towards helping you live a better life - however that may be defined for you.
(910) 519-1970 View (910) 519-1970
Photo of Lisa Beresnyak, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Lisa Beresnyak
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCAS, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
I believe all humans have the potential to discover their inner strength and overcome difficulties. I help clients to understand the root of unhealthy behavior patterns and thoughts to break free from what is holding them back from living authentically. My approach includes mindfulness, compassion, and helping my clients to recognize their own inner resources. I look forward to working with you to create transformation, healing and strength from within despite the external challenges of the world, being "stuck" in past trauma or childhood narratives, and day to day stressors - EMDR/trauma based focus.
I believe all humans have the potential to discover their inner strength and overcome difficulties. I help clients to understand the root of unhealthy behavior patterns and thoughts to break free from what is holding them back from living authentically. My approach includes mindfulness, compassion, and helping my clients to recognize their own inner resources. I look forward to working with you to create transformation, healing and strength from within despite the external challenges of the world, being "stuck" in past trauma or childhood narratives, and day to day stressors - EMDR/trauma based focus.
(919) 629-1372 View (919) 629-1372
Photo of Kim Bolen McGrew, Psychological Associate in Wilmington, NC
Kim Bolen McGrew
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP-PA, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
Through a collaborative approach, I strive to help clients achieve their personal goals while providing empathy and respect as the foundations of treatment. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a variety of emotional and behavioral concerns. My specialties include treating anxiety disorders, depression, mood instability, relationship and marital conflict, substance abuse, stress management, college issues, and life transitions (career decisions/changes, marriage, loss of relationships, retirement, etc.). I am also passionate about helping people improve their interpersonal and romantic relationships and incorporate research from the Gottman Method to teach practical communication and conflict resolution skills.
Through a collaborative approach, I strive to help clients achieve their personal goals while providing empathy and respect as the foundations of treatment. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a variety of emotional and behavioral concerns. My specialties include treating anxiety disorders, depression, mood instability, relationship and marital conflict, substance abuse, stress management, college issues, and life transitions (career decisions/changes, marriage, loss of relationships, retirement, etc.). I am also passionate about helping people improve their interpersonal and romantic relationships and incorporate research from the Gottman Method to teach practical communication and conflict resolution skills.
(910) 512-2890 View (910) 512-2890
Photo of Linda Whitlock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Linda Whitlock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
"Only in an open non judgmental space can we acknowledge what we are feeling. Only in an open space where we're not caught up in our own version of reality can we see and hear and feel who others really are, which allows us to be with them and communicate with them properly." This quote by Pema Chodron, an American Buddhist Nun expresses the atmosphere I hope to create for clients seeking counseling services from me. For more than 30 years I have attempted to provide, through a collaborative dialogue services that will improve each clients quality of life.
"Only in an open non judgmental space can we acknowledge what we are feeling. Only in an open space where we're not caught up in our own version of reality can we see and hear and feel who others really are, which allows us to be with them and communicate with them properly." This quote by Pema Chodron, an American Buddhist Nun expresses the atmosphere I hope to create for clients seeking counseling services from me. For more than 30 years I have attempted to provide, through a collaborative dialogue services that will improve each clients quality of life.
(910) 202-6504 x2 View (910) 202-6504 x2
Photo of Kim McGrew, Psychological Associate in Wilmington, NC
Kim McGrew
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP-PA, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
If you are experiencing anxiety, OCD, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, burnout, trouble with life transitions, relationship challenges, or grief/loss, I would be honored to help. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process in which we establish goals and implement strategies to achieve them together. Evidence-based techniques are utilized, and I strive to provide feedback in each session and reflections to offer perspective. Empathy, respect, and patience are the foundations of the treatment modalities I implement. I am committed to providing a non-judgmental and trusting atmosphere to facilitate therapeutic growth.
If you are experiencing anxiety, OCD, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, burnout, trouble with life transitions, relationship challenges, or grief/loss, I would be honored to help. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process in which we establish goals and implement strategies to achieve them together. Evidence-based techniques are utilized, and I strive to provide feedback in each session and reflections to offer perspective. Empathy, respect, and patience are the foundations of the treatment modalities I implement. I am committed to providing a non-judgmental and trusting atmosphere to facilitate therapeutic growth.
(910) 512-2890 View (910) 512-2890
Photo of Mary Spilsbury, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Mary Spilsbury
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
I have 18 years of experience in supporting client's work through all that life has to offer. Therapy offers an opportunity to speak openly about whatever has arisen in you. My clients say that having the touchstone of our weekly sessions helps them greet each new week with a fresh perspective. I also offer an authenticity that has been called "refreshing".
I have 18 years of experience in supporting client's work through all that life has to offer. Therapy offers an opportunity to speak openly about whatever has arisen in you. My clients say that having the touchstone of our weekly sessions helps them greet each new week with a fresh perspective. I also offer an authenticity that has been called "refreshing".
(910) 460-9858 View (910) 460-9858
Photo of Megan L English, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Megan L English
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Currently accepting new clients! Hi! If you’re searching for a therapist, chances are you might be struggling with something in your life. I sure hope that whomever you choose to work with helps you feel better, think better, and ultimately process what’s happening with refined skills. You've got this! I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and depressive disorders. I also value working with the LGBTQ population, including adolescents, families, and adults, as well as foster/adoptive families. Working with anyone who recognizes a need for change or is interested in making their life better is perfect for me!
Currently accepting new clients! Hi! If you’re searching for a therapist, chances are you might be struggling with something in your life. I sure hope that whomever you choose to work with helps you feel better, think better, and ultimately process what’s happening with refined skills. You've got this! I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and depressive disorders. I also value working with the LGBTQ population, including adolescents, families, and adults, as well as foster/adoptive families. Working with anyone who recognizes a need for change or is interested in making their life better is perfect for me!
(910) 370-8927 View (910) 370-8927
Photo of Chasity Meadows, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Chasity Meadows
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LCAS, MSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Will respond to inquiries in 24-48 hours. Hi! I'm Chasity, it's nice to meet you. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. Not feeling yourself, so let's talk… I believe everyone has the ability to heal no matter the amount of trauma you've endured. I feel like anyone can benefit from the therapeutic process when you are willing to put the work in. Let’s start today. I believe everyone can make some positive lifestyle changes, while achieving life goals, and learning to find, and love yourself again. Therapy has the ability to change lives, I see it everyday.
Will respond to inquiries in 24-48 hours. Hi! I'm Chasity, it's nice to meet you. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. Not feeling yourself, so let's talk… I believe everyone has the ability to heal no matter the amount of trauma you've endured. I feel like anyone can benefit from the therapeutic process when you are willing to put the work in. Let’s start today. I believe everyone can make some positive lifestyle changes, while achieving life goals, and learning to find, and love yourself again. Therapy has the ability to change lives, I see it everyday.
(910) 400-1505 View (910) 400-1505
Photo of Heather Dest, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Heather Dest
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
I have worked with a wide range of clients in an array of settings from Private Practice, Hospitals, Public Schools, College, Prison and Community Agencies. In these settings, I worked with clients facing depression, anxiety, guilt, fear, regret, relationship issues, identity development, parenting problems, career challenges, life transitions, interpersonal conflict, decision paralysis and more. You can learn more about me and look at scheduling options by copying and pasting the following address: http://www.salttherapy-wilmington.org
I have worked with a wide range of clients in an array of settings from Private Practice, Hospitals, Public Schools, College, Prison and Community Agencies. In these settings, I worked with clients facing depression, anxiety, guilt, fear, regret, relationship issues, identity development, parenting problems, career challenges, life transitions, interpersonal conflict, decision paralysis and more. You can learn more about me and look at scheduling options by copying and pasting the following address: http://www.salttherapy-wilmington.org
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Photo of Rebecca Deardorff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Rebecca Deardorff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
Have you struggled to find a therapist who respects your individuality while challenging you to grow? My name is Rebecca, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with eight years of experience in Tennessee and North Carolina. I am passionate about supporting people through their lives ups and downs. My counseling style is focused on the client. I believe they are experts in their own life, and I am here to support them make the changes they want to make in their life. I enjoy working with and have experience with LGBTQ+ clients, and I am poly, sex, and kink-knowledgeable.
Have you struggled to find a therapist who respects your individuality while challenging you to grow? My name is Rebecca, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with eight years of experience in Tennessee and North Carolina. I am passionate about supporting people through their lives ups and downs. My counseling style is focused on the client. I believe they are experts in their own life, and I am here to support them make the changes they want to make in their life. I enjoy working with and have experience with LGBTQ+ clients, and I am poly, sex, and kink-knowledgeable.
(910) 606-6524 View (910) 606-6524
Photo of Stillpoint Counseling and Wellness, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Stillpoint Counseling and Wellness, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, owner
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Often times people come to therapy due to feeling excessive stress at work, at home, or in their relationships. They find the pressures of every day life have exceeded their abilities, overwhelmed their senses, and left them with an inability to cope. They are often having problems going to school, completing tasks, getting along with others at work, and finding activities enjoyable resulting in low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, or other symptoms. Families often report not being able to get along or feeling overwhelmed with parenting a child that is having behavioral problems. They know they need to make a change.
Often times people come to therapy due to feeling excessive stress at work, at home, or in their relationships. They find the pressures of every day life have exceeded their abilities, overwhelmed their senses, and left them with an inability to cope. They are often having problems going to school, completing tasks, getting along with others at work, and finding activities enjoyable resulting in low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, or other symptoms. Families often report not being able to get along or feeling overwhelmed with parenting a child that is having behavioral problems. They know they need to make a change.
(910) 427-5382 View (910) 427-5382
Photo of Rachel March, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Rachel March
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
Life is filled with unexpected challenges - navigating a new diagnosis, becoming a parent or caregiver, changing jobs, things not turning out as expected. I work with individuals who are navigating life’s transitions, helping clients to navigate the connection between emotional and physical health and advocating for the importance of caring for both. I help clients learn to practice mindfulness to become more aware of the present moment, identify their true values and learn to make decisions aligning with these values.
Life is filled with unexpected challenges - navigating a new diagnosis, becoming a parent or caregiver, changing jobs, things not turning out as expected. I work with individuals who are navigating life’s transitions, helping clients to navigate the connection between emotional and physical health and advocating for the importance of caring for both. I help clients learn to practice mindfulness to become more aware of the present moment, identify their true values and learn to make decisions aligning with these values.
(910) 629-2903 View (910) 629-2903
Photo of Oceanside Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Oceanside Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28409
Oceanside Counseling was created to give you hope and to help you feel listened to and supported in your pursuit of health and healing. At Oceanside you are not just another number. Your mental health matters to us and we value and treat you like we would want to be treated ourselves. Recent events have increased stress for people throughout the world and many people are struggling with overwhelming emotions and fears. If you are in need, please reach out to us. We are currently providing virtual services (video/telephone) to anyone living in North Carolina and we are accepting new patients.
Oceanside Counseling was created to give you hope and to help you feel listened to and supported in your pursuit of health and healing. At Oceanside you are not just another number. Your mental health matters to us and we value and treat you like we would want to be treated ourselves. Recent events have increased stress for people throughout the world and many people are struggling with overwhelming emotions and fears. If you are in need, please reach out to us. We are currently providing virtual services (video/telephone) to anyone living in North Carolina and we are accepting new patients.
(910) 378-0880 View (910) 378-0880

Nearby Chronic Pain Therapists Searches for Wilmington

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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.