Cognitive-behavior Therapy for MS-Related Chronic Pain

CBT: The components of CBT include (1) identification of idiosyncratic beliefs about pain and pain treatment, as well as reconceptualization of the pain experience as subject to personal control (sessions 1-2), (2) instruction in specific cognitive (e.g., distraction) and behavioral (e.g., change in activity patterns such as alternating activity with periods of rest) skills (sessions 3-8), and (3) consolidation of cognitive/behavioral skills through activities such as role playing (sessions 9-11).

Educational intervention: Session topics will include information on the etiology of MS, MS subtypes and disease progression, common symptoms of MS, medical management of MS, rehabilitation approaches to management of MS-related symptoms, exercise, sick day management, stress management, psychosocial adjustment, family involvement, and appropriate use of the health care system.