Journal of clinical psychology
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Group therapy for chronic pain management, particularly that using cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT), has become a common treatment format. This article provides a rationale and framework for group CBT, including the research evidence and clinical considerations related to the practitioner and patient. We then present an example of group therapy focusing on the cognitive components of CBT for chronic pain. Examples from group therapy are used in order to illustrate the principles of optimizing the group approach in the context of cognitive therapy.
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This article considers assessment and treatment issues for mental health practitioners working with patients using opiate medications to treat chronic pain with a particular emphasis on their potential relationship to substance abuse. We review general opiate medications, including a discussion of medications with increased addiction potential. ⋯ Additionally, we examine the role of the mental health professional within this area and examine the incorporation of psychological interventions for patients using opiates. A case illustration includes several of these complicated issues of managing chronic pain with opiate medications.