In this episode, BW and BE welcome Dr. Laura Payne, a renowned clinical psychologist and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School, and discuss the psychological implications of chronic pain.

They highlight its prevalence, the healthcare system's shortcomings, and innovative therapies like Pain Reprocessing Therapy and Emotion Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET) that address both emotional and physical aspects. Dr. Payne shares practical techniques for therapists and discusses her forthcoming book, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches to improve the quality of life for those suffering from chronic pain.

Overall, this episode emphasizes that while living with chronic pain can feel isolating and frustrating, there are treatments available that address the intricate ties between our mental and physical states. By guiding listeners and professionals alike toward appropriate resources, they aim to lessen the stigma around chronic pain, instilling hope and encouraging proactive approaches to pain management.

HIGHLIGHTS:

2:26 Introduction of Laura Payne, PhD

4:51 Research Focus and Background

8:00 Exploring Menstrual Pain

9:31 Trauma and Chronic Pain Connection

11:58 Understanding Different Types of Pain

15:26 Treatment Approaches for Chronic Pain

18:58 Mind-Body Practices and Chronic Pain

21:59 Emotional Processing and Pain Relief

27:45 Addressing Women's Anger and Chronic Pain

32:13 Gastrointestinal Pain and Food Associations

36:31 The Role of Neuroplasticity in Pain

41:09 Validating Chronic Pain Experiences

42:39 Resources for Pain Management

44:10 Upcoming Book Release Announcement

connect with Laura:

www.mcleanhospital.org/profile/laura-payne

www.linkedin.com/in/laura-payne-572b543/

Psychosocial Interventions for Chronic Pain in Women and Girls book: https://link.springer.com/book/9783031988752

mentioned in the episode:

The Way Out by Alan Gordon

UnlearnYourPain.com

Assoc. for the Treatment of Neuroplastic Symptoms: https://ppdassociation.thinkific.com/collections

CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:

Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) Website

Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) Website

The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.