Sample interview questions: What strategies do you use to address the interplay between chronic pain and mental health concerns in individuals?
Sample answer:
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Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT addresses the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It helps individuals identify and challenge negative thoughts and behaviors related to chronic pain, leading to improved coping skills and pain management.
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT focuses on acceptance of the limitations imposed by chronic pain and commitment to valued activities. It helps individuals learn to live a meaningful life despite the presence of pain, reducing the impact of pain on their mental health.
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Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): MBSR teaches individuals to pay present, non-judgmental attention to their experiences. This practice helps reduce stress, enhance emotional regulation, and improve overall well-being in individuals with chronic pain.
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Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE): PNE provides individuals with a scientific understanding of chronic pain and its neurobiological mechanisms. This empowers them with knowledge that can reduce fear, anxiety, and catastrophizing associated with pain, thus improving their mental health.
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Medication Management: In collaboration with a physician, a health psychologist can provide guidance on appropriate medication options that can alleviate pain and improve mental health outcomes. This approach works in conjunction with psychological interventions to address the interplay b… Read full answer