ABSTRACT
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) comprises psychotherapeutic interventions for chronic pain that target the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral contributing factors to (and manifestations of) pain. Clinical CBT interventions consist of a variety of evidence-based skills and strategies, including relaxation training, cognitive restructuring, and behavioral activation. Psychologists often provide CBT interventions to chronic pain patients as part of a comprehensive multimodal approach administered by an interdisciplinary team (e.g., physicians providing medical interventions and/or pharmacotherapy; physical and/or occupational therapists administering these types of therapy). Research in chronic pain management has shown CBTs to be effective for improving the patient’s pain experience, mood/affect, cognitive coping and appraisal, pain behavior, physical fitness, and social role functioning. As the use of mobile technology grows, CBT interventions have been adapted to improve their accessibility and reach for various populations. Preliminary studies show support for the effectiveness of telephone and web-based delivery of CBTs for chronic pain. Future research in CBTs for chronic pain should focus on high-quality trials in order to specify key intervention mechanisms and inform efficient and effective delivery models.
