Treating Pediatric Chronic Pain in Schools: A Primer for School Psychologists

Limited attention has been devoted in school psychology training programs to students with chronic health conditions. School psychologists are situated to provide behavioral and mental health services to students with chronic health conditions. The focus of this report is on pediatric chronic pain. Pediatric chronic pain is prevalent and can be debilitating, putting students at significant risk for adverse personal, social, and academic outcomes. This primer is designed to educate school psychologists about pediatric chronic pain, within the context of the biopsychosocial model of chronic pain, and to highlight the necessary components of a comprehensive model of intervention for students with pediatric chronic pain. Examples of interventions that can be provided within a school setting are presented in the framework of a multitiered system of support.