Psychological Case Study Essay

For the purpose of this assignment the author will identify and critically analyse psychological issues based on theory and empirical research to the client they have chosen. The author will also discuss the approach used to improve the quality of life to this individual. The case study that will be discussed is based on a seventeen year with chronic pain whom is feeling depressed due to her condition.
Charlotte is a 17 year old female that has been diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis polyarticular with a rheumatoid factor positive. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a joint disorder found in youth were chronic pain is associated (HSE,uknown). Her currently medication is methotrexate and enbreal injection-which she gets three times

This particular intervention is utilized to adapt a change in the way an individual thinks about their condition thus changing their behaviour. Therapy sessions are “present” focused and are concerned with identifying and problem solving what needs to be address. The therapy sessions are highly structured and it gets the individual to practise new ways of thinking during the session. Cognitive behaviour interventions are based around psycho-education about pain and does the person understand their pain, many behavioural aspects, coping skills, different approaches in problem solving and how to deal with pain, to eliminate negative thinking and anxiety about pain, to utilize the ABC-E model to aid in identifying and overcoming events that may be impacting on the pain (Keefe, Dunsmore & Burnett 1992). Many studies have found that cognitive behaviour therapy is an effective treatment for chronic pain and its significant changes in the individual’s experience of pain, their pain behaviour, and social function (Morley et al

A full holistic approach is required. It is an important aspect in any care being provided that the patient and families are educated in chronic pain. The responsibility if health care professionals to educate their peers and advocate the appropriate pain management in children. When conducting any treatment plan it is essential for the therapist to be patient-centred and include the patient in all the decision making of their treatment. It is important to investigate the patient’s understanding of the condition. Another significant aspect for the patient is to develop coping skills and to be able to recognise negative emotions which they will be able to overcome with the correct educating and information. Implementing these changes can effectively help the individual feel more in control of their body with regard to pain they experience. The skills learned through the interventions can empower and enable patients to become active applicant in managing their