Telehealth Delivery of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Recreational Therapy: Supporting People with Chronic Pain During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Author

Grace L. Roy, University of New Hampshire, DurhamFollow

Date of Award

Spring 2022

Project Type

Senior Honors Thesis

College or School

CHHS

Department

Department of Health Management & Policy

Program or Major

Health Management & Policy

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

First Advisor

Semra Aytur

Abstract

Chronic pain is a significant public health problem that requires person-centered and comprehensive care to address the many socioecological factors that contribute to pain. Within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth options for chronic pain management can help more people access the care that they need. The purpose of the current pilot study was to investigate the efficacy and feasibility of delivering a 6-week Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and recreational therapy intervention via telehealth for a group of seven participants with chronic pain. It was found that TeleACT-RT was associated with positive behavioral outcomes including increased psychological flexibility, pain acceptance, and lower extremity function and decreased feelings of pain-related stigma. Additionally, participants were satisfied with the delivery of the intervention via telehealth. These findings support further research around the adaptation of therapies like ACT and recreational therapy for telehealth delivery to increase access to these critical services.

Recommended Citation

Roy, Grace L., "Telehealth Delivery of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Recreational Therapy: Supporting People with Chronic Pain During the COVID-19 Pandemic" (2022). Honors Theses and Capstones. 632.
https://scholars.unh.edu/honors/632