DIRECTION for Employee Assistance


DIRECTION Pain Program

Occupational Health

Overview

More than 70 million Americans have chronic pain and evidence shows that a multidisciplinary program is one of the most effective treatments.

The Pain Program offers treatment for patients suffering from a variety of conditions including back pain, fibromyalgia, headaches , and other medical conditions.

Documented outcomes include:

  • Improved functioning in many life activities
  • Decrease in emotional symptoms, such as depression and anxiety
  • Decrease in subjective pain levels
  • Development of life goals that can be reached, despite chronic pain
  • Improvement in relationships with family, friends and medical providers

Schedule

The program consists of five hours of treatment, one day per week, for eight weeks, and includes:

  • Psychological adjustment
  • Medical management
  • Physical therapy
  • Relaxation and biofeedback training
  • Group education and support

Staff

Every member of our team has considerable experience with multidisciplinary pain treatment programs. Together, we carefully coordinate care and develop individualized goals based on the needs of each patient.

Consistent staffing, communication with the referring medical providers, and careful planning for aftercare ensure the highest quality outcome for participants.

Team Members include:

  • James Morris, MD, and a team of medical pain specialists
  • Teri Strong, PhD, Clinical Director, Licensed Psychologist
  • David Campbell, PhD, Licensed Psychologist
  • Jill Papenheim, PT, Physical Therapist
  • Paulette Richards, Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Program Consultants:

  • Arthur Edelmann, PhD, Licensed Psychologist
  • Kenneth Zimmerman, NP, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Referral and Evaluation

A physician referral is required to participate. Our team will coordinate with the referring physician, primary care provider, and others involved in the patients care. If you do not have a primary care provider, we will assist you in finding one. This doctor will provide support for ongoing pain management after the program concludes.

Authorization by the patient?s health insurance provider is required prior to acceptance into the program. We have positive relationships with local healthcare insurers, which help facilitate coverage. Self-pay options are also available.

Patients will be required to participate in a thorough medical and psychological evaluation prior to acceptance into the program. The purpose it to:

  • Make certain our program is a good fit, based on needs and goals
  • Clarify goals and develop an individually designed treatment plan
  • Address questions
  • Provide information to the referring physician, primary care doctor, and other medical providers to ensure effective care

Contact

For more information or to schedule an appointment, email or call (541) 345-2800.