I find it helpful with relieving the stress. That in return helps in the long run with flare ups and pain. Right now I go once a week but I just was assigned to a new one. My doctor looks at it as a pain management also. I know it's not for everyone but before I got on this site there was no one that I could talk to and they actually listen.

I have been seeing a psychologist and a psychiatrist for years, primarily because of mental health issues related to military service, however I have found them to be very beneficial as part of my "pain management team". That is the name that my rheumatologist called them, when he suggested that I seek some sort of psychological help, if I wasn't already, because a vast number of severe pain sufferers go through some form of depression, which in turn triggers a flare up of fibro. At the suggestion of my psychologist, I have been also attending an 8 week pain management therapy. In that, it's very similar to this, with relaxation, communication, and even suggestions on how to try to become somewhat active despite the pain. I had to get past the stigma of see a " shrink" and embraced it as taking care of my "whole" body. Good luck.

In addition to talking about your feelings and difficulties they may look at your mental health history if you have one. They can prescribe medication if they feel it is necessary, they can also prescribe a course of councelling. Is nothing to worry about most likely your first appointment with a psychiatrist will be a chat. They can also help with practical issues like referring you to housing charities if you are facing homelessness etc, or speaking with your employers with your permission to allay any concerns they may have about you working for them in your role with a mental health condition. They can be really quite helpful. Best wishes.

Yes Doneta is pain but it does affect us mentally and Emotionally

I always cry. I just don't understand why we have to have this pain. There is really not much they can say. Our problem isn't mental its real. It's real PAIN!!