The Future of Psychology in Pain Management

Pain treatment facilities have proliferated in recent years and psychology has enjoyed considerable success in the clinical and research arenas of pain management. However, changes in the health care environment present significant challenges to the future of psychology in pain management. This article discusses concerns in three important areas of pain treatment that psychologists must address if they are to maintain a strong presence in this field: (1) evaluating and treating patients in the pain treatment setting, (2) evaluating and enhancing the efficacy of pain treatment, and (3) applying pain treatment services to other patient populations. With appropriate attention to these issues, psychology can continue to thrive in pain treatment settings.