Q&A: Can a person with TMS go to a therapist who uses CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy)?
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Answer by Audrey Berdeski, DC | |
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Audrey Berdeski's Profile Page / Survey Response |
That is a great question. I'll give you my own opinion on that, and other people may have different opinions as well. I believe that psychodynamic therapy is the therapy of choice for TMS clients. This is because psychodynamic work is depth oriented and gets into the unconscious mind, and CBT does not. Since TMS is rooted in the unconscious mind, CBT would be more of a placebo, similar to chiropractic, surgery, or medication for TMS. -- It is important to recognize that no information on this wiki can be considered a specific medical diagnosis, medical treatment, or medical advice. Reading information here does not create a doctor/patient or other professional relationship between you and the answering professional. As always, you should consult with your physicians and counselors regarding new symptoms and any changes that you might make in medications or activities. |
Answer by Barbara Kline, LCSW | |
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Barbara Kline's Survey Response / Profile Page |
I believe in using an eclectic approach. I draw from systems theory, CBT, Relational, and psychodynamic. Although TMS is rooted in the subconscious, changing a client's way of thinking about the pain is essential. Arming them with the knowledge that the pain (or TMS equivalent) is not being caused by a bulging disc or anything physical is something Dr. Sarno advocates. He also uses behavioral when he states that conditioning can be the cause. If we once had pain when we sat too long, the next time we sit, we may get the pain. Using extinction or systematic desensitization can help get clients over their fear. Also, teaching problem solving skills or assertiveness may help someone who is in an unhealthy relationship stop repressing anger or resentment. This isn't to say that their unconscious anger is not causing the pain, rather that if they dealt with the relationship, they would not have reason to repress. If someone is in a job they hate but they believe they have no way out (family to support, current economic issues) they may repress anger and resentment and experience pain. CBT would use problem solving to explore options such as changing jobs or changing the way they perceive the current one. -- It is important to recognize that no information on this wiki can be considered a specific medical diagnosis, medical treatment, or medical advice. Reading information here does not create a doctor/patient or other professional relationship between you and the answering professional. As always, you should consult with your physicians and counselors regarding new symptoms and any changes that you might make in medications or activities. |
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