Date of Award
Spring 5-6-2024
Document Type
Thesis (699 registration)
Degree Name
Master of Science in Counseling
Department
Graduate Studies
Committee Chair
Dr. Taryn Akgul
Keywords
chronic pain, school counseling, group counseling, adolescents
Abstract
The purpose of this literature review was to examine the current literature on evidence-based interventions for working with youth who have a chronic pain condition. Interventions and other relevant information found were then used to formulate a school counseling group manual utilizing evidence-based interventions for school counselors to deliver to a group of students who live with chronic pain. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an empirically supported intervention for use with people with chronic pain, adolescents, and group work. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a newer modality that has promising research on efficacy for adolescents with chronic pain and use with adolescents in the school setting. The benefits and drawbacks of delivering interventions in a group format will be discussed as well as the role school counselors play in working with students who have chronic pain. There is currently a lack of resources available for school counselors to address common issues that occur for this population of students. Evidence-based treatments highlighted in this review include using a multidisciplinary approach, improving physical exercise and sleep routines, CBT, ACT, and mindfulness approaches for managing pain or anxiety. A 6-week group manual was developed utilizing CBT and ACT principles targeting specific areas of struggle for adolescents with chronic pain to support this group.
Recommended Citation
Shinners, Victoria, "Supporting Students with Chronic Pain: A Group Manual for School Counselors" (2024). Dissertations, Theses, and Projects. 951.
https://red.mnstate.edu/thesis/951