Chronic musculoskeletal pain has a highly negative impact on Veterans, especially those with serious mental illness (SMI). Chronic musculoskeletal pain leads to poorer mental and physical health-related functioning, representing a critical obstacle to rehabilitation and recovery for SMI Veterans. Despite known high prevalence rates of chronic pain in SMI populations, there is little research to evaluate nonpharmacological pain management strategies in this population. This study aims to address this research and clinical gap by testing the efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP) - a VA evidence-based psychotherapy for chronic pain - in Veterans with SMI and chronic low back pain. The study will primarily evaluate the impact of CBT-CP on pain-related functioning, quality of life, and pain severity. This study will also examine relationships between pain and mental health symptoms, and how these relationships may change with CBT-CP completion.
Have chronic back pain, per medical record
Have a PEG-3 rating of 4 or greater for pain severity or interference
Meet criteria for an SMI diagnosis (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, major depression with psychosis) per medical record
18 years of age or older
Are engaging in moderate-to-severe substance use that would impact their ability to participate and/or would require a higher level of care (as determined by treating provider)
Engagement in individual Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP), whether currently or in the past 12 months
Have a current acute pain condition, medical condition, or limited mobility (i.e., unable to walk one city block) that would interfere with their ability to engage in CBT-CP interventions (e.g., activity pacing/walking program)