Psychosocial Intervention

The National MS Society is pleased to offer Psychosocial Intervention in Multiple Sclerosis: Strategies for Mental Health Professionals. Developed by the Clinical Care Department, the program is offered by the Society at locations around the country.

Upcoming Programs

To find out if your chapter of the National MS Society is planning a program, contact your chapterat 1-800-344-4867. Or e-mail healthprof_info@nmss.org.

Program Description

Multiple sclerosis (MS), an immune-mediated disease of the central nervous system, is diagnosed most commonly between the ages of 20 and 50. Although MS was first described more than 140 years ago, the cause and cure are still unknown. Young adults who are diagnosed with MS will be living with its impact for decades.

The symptoms, including fatigue, impaired ambulation, visual disturbances, bowel and bladder problems, and cognitive changes, vary from one individual to another and for any given individual over time. The unpredictability of the disease adds layers of complexity to the ordinary challenges of daily life: career decisions, intimate relationships, domestic routines, parenting, financial planning, and aging.

Mental health professionals are in a unique position to help people affected by MS—those who have it and those who care about someone who does—to cope with and adapt to the intrusion of MS in their lives. For clinicians seeking new challenges, working with people with MS can add an intellectually stimulating and emotionally fulfilling aspect to clinical practice.

Target Audience

This program is directed to mental health professionals interested in learning more about MS and/or expanding their practice to include people with MS.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is looking for licensed mental health professionals to whom we can refer our clients. This educational program provides important background information about the psychosocial needs of individuals and families living with MS.

Program Topics

• Multiple Sclerosis: What You Need to Know About the Disease (45 minutes)
• "Trying-on" Symptoms of MS (15 minutes)
• Adapting to Life with MS: Emotional Challenges and Coping Strategies (60 minutes)
• Cognitive Dysfunction in MS (50 minutes)
• Case Vignette Presentations and Discussion (60 minutes)
• Multiple Sclerosis and Intimacy (40 minutes)
• Parenting: Choices and Challenges (30 minutes)
• Professional Challenges: Presentation and Discussion (45 minutes)

The program includes targeted question-and-answer sessions.

Program Format

This program consists of lectures, case discussions, and question-and-answer sessions presented by two speakers who are licensed mental health professionals experienced in working with people affected by MS and other chronic, disabling diseases.

Learning Objectives

Active participants in this program will be better able to

• Describe the physical, emotional, and cognitive impact of MS on individuals and their families;
• Recognize and address unique clinical challenges to working with clients with a chronic, disabling illness;
• Identify client needs and facilitate efforts to adapt and problem-solve.

Accreditation

Continuing education credits may be available for mental health providers through the sponsoring Society chapter.