ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews several decades of research evaluating the efficacy of group interventions for chronic pain. The chapter includes a discussion of the historical context of group interventions in psychology, as well as a discussion of how group modalities emerged as evidenced-based approaches in chronic pain management. Various theoretical approaches are discussed (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction). The chapter also reviews additional helpful group intervention components (i.e., physical therapy, nutrition, sleep medicine, complementary and alternative medicine), and in so doing emphasizes the complexity of chronic pain management and the benefits of a whole-lifestyle approach to pain management. Finally, the chapter addresses cost considerations relevant to chronic pain groups, as well as patient variables that may impact treatment effectiveness.
