Understanding Chronic Pain in Pediatric Populations (13 min)

• Acute vs. chronic pain definitions

• Epidemiology and prevalence

• Common diagnoses (juvenile arthritis, migraines, CRPS, fibromyalgia)

• Myths and misconceptions

• Developmental considerations in pain perception

• Psychosocial impact and family systems

• Educational and social functioning

The Biopsychosocial Framework and Pain (10 min)

• Biological mechanisms of pain

• Psychological factors (anxiety, depression, catastrophizing)

• Social determinants (family stress, school attendance, peer relationships)

• Interactions across domains

• Role of social workers in holistic care

Assessment and Screening Strategies (11 min)

• Pain scales and self-report tools

• Functional assessment and quality of life

• Screening for comorbid mental health concerns

• Cultural and linguistic considerations

• Collaborative communication with providers and families

Psychosocial and Behavioral Interventions (14 min)

• CBT for pain

• ACT and mindfulness approaches

• Biofeedback, relaxation, distraction techniques

• School-based accommodations and behavioral planning

• Case examples of intervention plans

Family Systems and Caregiver Engagement (12 min)

• Impact of chronic pain on family dynamics

• Addressing caregiver stress, guilt, overprotection

• Family therapy and psychoeducation

• Enhancing resilience and communication

• Sibling considerations

Trauma-Informed and Developmentally Sensitive Approaches (12 min)

• Overlap of chronic pain and ACEs

• Supporting emotional regulation and self-efficacy

• Recognizing medical trauma and procedural anxiety

• Tailoring interventions by age and stage

• Creating emotionally safe care environments

Multidisciplinary Collaboration and Advocacy (12 min)

• Roles of providers: pediatricians, pain specialists, psychologists, PTs, school staff

• Care coordination and case management

• Advocacy in school, medical, and insurance systems

• Promoting integrative care models

• Empowering youth voice in treatment

Supporting Functioning, Identity, and Social Participation (13 min)

• Promoting school attendance and peer engagement

• Addressing stigma and identity concerns

• Coping with limitations and invisible disabilities

• Supporting hobbies, recreation, and autonomy

• Preparing for transitions (adult care, college)

Ethics, Boundaries, and Professional Responsibilities (11 min)

• Managing dual roles (hospital, school, family liaison)

• Confidentiality and minors’ rights

• Navigating consent and medical decision-making

• Advocating without overstepping roles

• Self-awareness of bias in pain perceptions

Case Studies and Integrative Application (12 min)

• Case 1: Adolescent with migraines, school avoidance, anxiety

• Case 2: Child with CRPS and family stress

• Case 3: Multicultural case with misdiagnosis and stigma

• Group reflection and supervision prompts

• Integrating assessment, intervention, advocacy, resilience-building

⏱️ Total Time

120 minutes (2 CE Hours)