MS Focus: the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation and Dr. Pearl B. Werfel announce a nonmedical pain management pilot study. This no-cost program is meant as an addition to any medical care that participants are currently receiving.

Dr. Werfel is a clinical psychologist at a private practice in San Francisco with expertise in wellness specializing on stress, anxiety, and pain mitigation with MS. She has developed webinars and led groups for people living with MS for more than 25 years. Dr. Werfel is the lead author of “Multiple Sclerosis (Advances in Psychotherapy Evidenced-Based Practice),” a book for mental health professionals. She was inducted into the National MS Society Volunteer Hall of Fame for Healthcare, is a member of the MS Foundation Health Provider Council, and a consultant with CanDo Multiple Sclerosis. 

The first 45 applicants will be accepted into the study, which will be split further into two groups at random. All participants will have the opportunity to view four prerecorded educational videos. These videos focus on pain management, specifically discussing techniques to try and recommended individual assignments. 

One of the two groups will also be invited to join Dr. Werfel in four additional interactive sessions to further practice pain management techniques, discuss the results of the assignments from the pre-recorded videos, and ask questions. The interactive sessions with Dr. Werfel will remain confidential and not be posted on any social media platform afterwards.

The deadline for registration for participation in the pain management study is April 19. The first of the four recorded presentations will be sent to the participants the week of April 22.

To qualify as an applicant for this pilot series, you must be:

• Currently working with a neurologist to manage your MS.
• Consulted with a physician about MS-related pain and discomfort.
• Agree to view all recorded presentations, follow-through with some homework, and be available for all four interactive sessions with Dr. Werfel.
• Agree to complete a pre- and post-questionnaire.
• Have access to a personal computer and can hear and verbally participate in group setting presentations. 
• Agree to an initial interview with an MS Focus staff member. 

If you meet all the qualifications and are interested in applying to be part of this pilot series, please contact Debra Forman, the Educational Programs coordinator, at debra@msfocus.org.