Living in Pain
Chronic pain accounts for a significant amount of the medical visits, drug sales, and lost productivity in the US. Frequently, people who suffer from chronic pain are looked down upon as “drug seekers” whose pain is “all in their heads.” With little support, little functionality, and constant discomfort, people suffering from chronic pain are often depressed, distressed, irritable, and hurting.
Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be this way.
Using What Works
Psychotherapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) have been shown in study after study to significantly increase a person’s ability to deal with pain on many levels. Further, such techniques as Hypnotherapy has also repeatedly been shown to be effective in pain management. Indeed, data suggests that Hypnosis may be especially helpful to individuals in pain.
Studies have demonstrated that Mindfulness, a meditative practice that involves attention and acceptance of a person’s moment-to-moment experiences is effective in helping people deal with both the emotional and physical aspects of chronic pain. Additional techniques such as Biofeedback are well established in pain management and are known to enhance gains in pain management.
What on Earth is MORF?
Mind-Oriented Relief and Functionality (MORF) is a chronic pain management program developed by Dr. Virden that combines the best of these evidence-based techniques: Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, Mindfulness, and Biofeedback. MORF is based on 11 modules that targets the way you think, feel, and react regarding pain. Each module is designed to be covered in a weekly session, but everyone is different and the MORF program may be completed in 11-16 weeks. MORF is an individualized treatment program and is not presently available in a group therapy format.
Side Effects:
Engaging fully with MORF can lead to some significant changes in your life and pain:
• Lower reliance on medications
• Increased functionality
• More physical activity
• Role changes in the family or social network
• Facing uncomfortable emotions
While these changes may indeed sound wonderful, be sure that this is really what you want. Some people may find many of these changes to be quite uncomfortable at first.
Ready for Change?
Getting started is very easy! To set up an appointment or to determine availability, simply call (623) 537-6250 or email me AZPsychology@midwestern.edu.
You should also be aware that most of my clientele Most of my clientele use insurance, in which case the only out of pocket cost is usually your copay. If you don't know what your copay is for psychological services, please consult your insurance carrier.
I currently accept:
• Blue Cross/Blue Shield
• LifeSync (of Humana)
• Arizona Foundation for Medical Care
• Health Net of Arizona
• Tricare
• Medicare
• Aetna
If you have further questions regarding payment, please click on the FAQ link to the right.
Location
This program is currently available at the Midwestern University Clinic at:
19389 N. 59th Avenue
Glendale, Arizona 85308
It's located on the Southwest corner of Utopia and 59th Avenue, just South of Union Hills.