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Psychological Services for Individuals

At NYU Langone Occupational and Industrial Orthopedic Center, we offer evidence-based psychological services to help people manage pain, and provide stress management techniques to help break the stress–pain cycle. Our cognitive behavioral approach to pain stresses the interaction between beliefs, attitudes, behaviors, and disability. We strive to provide you with tools you can use to manage pain and stress.

This service is provided to people who may benefit from an interdisciplinary approach to physical therapy, as well as those who are struggling to cope with chronic pain.

Cognitive Behavioral Pain Management Program

Our psychologist works closely with your physical therapist and physician to provide collaborative care of the highest quality, so that you can return to a productive and satisfying life.

Treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy is usually brief, lasting only about two to eight sessions. However, long-term treatment is also available.

The cognitive behavioral pain management program starts with a comprehensive assessment conducted by a licensed psychologist specializing in pain management. As part of this program, we offer the following services:

  • evaluation of a person’s stress level, symptoms, and coping skills at home and work
  • education about the relationship between stress and pain, ways of monitoring one’s stress levels, and techniques for relaxing, coping, and problem-solving
  • take home exercises and materials to encourage ongoing participation in stress management techniques
  • referrals for people who may need additional support

Presurgical Cognitive Behavioral Program

The idea of surgery can be overwhelming. Our psychologists evaluate the stress levels of people who are preparing for surgery and provide cognitive behavioral therapy to address their specific concerns. Patients attend up to half a dozen 30-minute therapy sessions where they receive pain education; pre- and post-surgery coping strategies, such as relaxation with guided imagery; and planning for after surgery, including identifying sources of support and managing expectations about recovery.