Chronic pain affects every aspect of a client’s life—and therapists can offer tools to help. This workshop equips clinicians with practical, evidence-based approaches to support clients living with persistent pain. Participants will explore how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors influence pain experiences, and learn strategies to reduce suffering, foster resilience, and improve daily functioning. Attendees will leave with actionable techniques they can integrate immediately to enhance client well-being.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to
- Define the biopsychosocial model of chronic pain and its relevance in psychotherapy.
- Identify psychological and behavioral factors that contribute to the experience of chronic pain.
- Demonstrate strategies to support clients in managing pain, increasing coping skills, and improving quality of life.
Syllabus:
Introduction
Objective #1: Understanding Chronic Pain
- Definition and Characteristics
- Acute vs. Chronic Pain
- Biopsychosocial Model
Objective #2: The Nervous System and Pain
- Pain Processing in the Brain
- Central Nervous System Role
- Pain Sensitization
Objective #3: Psychological and Emotional Factors
- Impact of Stress and Anxiety
- Pain and Trauma Connection
- Fear-Avoidance Cycle
Objective #4: Assessment and Awareness
- Identifying Pain Patterns
- Recognizing Triggers
- Building Client Awareness
Objective #5: Regulation and Coping Strategies
- Grounding Techniques
- Breathwork
- Emotional Regulation
Objective #6: Cognitive and Behavioral Approaches
- Reframing Thoughts
- Addressing Catastrophizing
- Encouraging Adaptive Behaviors
Objective #7: Somatic and Body-Based Strategies
- Body Awareness
- Movement-Based Interventions
- Mind-Body Connection
Objective #8: Therapeutic Communication
- Building Trust and Safety
- Validating Client Experience
- Supporting Empowerment
Objective #9: Practical Application
- Applying Strategies in Practice
- Individualizing Interventions
Summary/Q&A
Social workers completing this course receive 1 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 1 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Dreya Blume, LCSW
Recording Date: March 18, 2026
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2025 - 08/6/2026. Social workers completing this course receive 1hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com