Clinical psychologists assist the person with a rheumatic disease and his/her family in managing emotional and psychological distress, and help both parties live and cope with the chronic (and sometimes disabling) pain of spondylitis. A number of psychologists also conduct research studies to provide valuable information relating to the course, management, and consequences of rheumatic illnesses.

What Does the Clinical Psychologist Do?
Psychological tests and interviews may be used to evaluate the person and his/her family's psychological status and ability to cope with the disease. The psychologist studies the coping style, levels of anxiety, depression, and cognitive function, and if needed, adjustment to living with a disability.

Upon evaluation, the psychologist tailors a treatment plan to meet the person's needs, and provides a wide range of interventions designed to enhance coping, including cognitive behavioral therapy, pain and stress management, sexual and relationship counseling, and psychotherapy.

Short-term crisis intervention may be used in dealing with adjustment issues. Long-term psychotherapy provided individually or in a group setting tends to help those with more chronic psychological disorders. A psychologist will interact with rheumatologists and other professionals when appropriate (example: if prescribing a psychological medication).

Where Does a Clinical Psychologist Work?
Psychologists provide care in a variety of settings, including private practice, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, transitional living centers, nursing homes, industry, and educational settings.

Training
Supervised pre-doctoral internships are required to obtain a doctoral degree in clinical psychology. In many states, an additional one- to two-year postdoctoral traineeship may also be required to obtain licensure as a clinical psychologist. Psychologists also may obtain certification from the American Board of Professional Psychology, but it is not required for clinical practice. Psychologists not providing clinical care may have different licensure requirements.

Source: American College of Rheumatology