Course Description:

As evidence has definitively established a role for cognitive and emotional factors in the modulation of pain, the effective treatment of pain requires evidence-based methods to address these factors. This course introduces you to mindfulness-based treatment strategies for the active self-regulation of cognitive and emotional factors impacting pain. Mindfulness training has been shown to reduce catastrophic thinking, anxiety, and depression and to improve positive affect in patients experiencing persistent pain. Strategies to support a patient to broaden their attention beyond the sensation of pain, address worry, catastrophic thinking, and threat are introduced. The mindful investigation of pain is highlighted. Guidelines and handouts to introduce positive activities and mindful savoring of pleasant experiences are provided. Self-compassion and kindness meditation training are introduced and a brief kindness meditation is demonstrated. Combining lecture, demonstration, and an experiential exercise, this course is applicable to healthcare professionals, including physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, athletic trainers, and registered nurses, serving patients in both in and outpatient settings who would benefit from sensible, effective pain self-management strategies.
Prerequisite: Previous knowledge of and experience with the principles and practices of mindfulness and experience in their clinical applications to patient care are required to benefit from this course. It is highly recommended to watch the courses below in this order:
1. Fundamental Mindfulness Principles and Practices
2. Integrating Mindful Principles and Practices into Patient Care
3. An Introduction to Mindfulness for Pain Treatment