Psychologists are an important part of treating chronic pain. Specifically, psychologists often work alongside a multidisciplinary team when treating pain. The team often includes the family physician, a pain specialist (who prescribes pain medications), and sometimes an occupational therapist, physiotherapist, and/or chiropractor.
The psychologist provides skills and support in dealing with chronic pain. For example, a psychologist can teach skills like relaxation, stress management, problem solving, goal setting, pacing, and techniques to improve sleep. These skills can help a person better manage their pain.
