Pain and Stress Management for Fibromyalgia

Emotional Exposure and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies for Fibromyalgia

This interventional, randomized controlled study seeks to test the effects of an innovative emotional exposure and processing treatment that targets stress resolution, by comparing it with cognitive-behavioral therapy and a Fibromyalgia education comparison condition. The investigators also will test proposed mediators of the intervention, including improved autonomic regulation, and explore which subgroups of patients benefit the most from each approach.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Meet Fibromyalgia (FM) criteria of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR)either:

  • 1990 ACR criteria including tender points
  • 2010 ACR modified clinical criteria that does not include tender points

Exclusion Criteria:

• Co-morbid autoimmune disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus
• Other serious medical conditions that can impair health status independent of FM
• Current psychotic disorders (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, etc.),dissociative identity (multiple personality) disorder, active suicide risk
• Alcohol/drug dependence in past 2 years
• Cognitive impairment or dementia
• Currently have pending (or recently received - within 2 years) FM pain related disability or workman's compensation
• Unable to fluently read or converse in English
• Planning to move from the area in the next 14 months
• Judgment of principle investigator as not appropriate for this trial or all intervention arms