Secretary

The Pain Centre secretary is the first contact person. The secretary will schedule appointments and/or admission to The Pain Centre and will answer any questions about coming to the Centre.

Psychiatrist and Physician Leader of The Pain Centre

The psychiatrist assumes the administrative role for the team and assists in assessing new patients to The Pain Centre. The psychiatrist facilities further investigations to confirm or exclude a psychiatric diagnosis and conducts individual sessions with patients in the Inpatient and Outpatient program.

Medical Pain Specialist

The medical pain specialist assists in assessing new patients to The Pain Centre and will triage patients for various programs within the Centre. The medical pain specialist directs the medical management of the patient in the Inpatient and Outpatient Programs; will facilitate investigations to confirm or exclude a medical diagnosis; and will refer to other specialists affiliated to the team for diagnostic and therapeutic intervention as required. Along with the psychiatrist, the medical pain specialist provides an integrated medical and psychological approach to treatment.

Psychologist

The program psychologist conducts assessment evaluations, psychological testing, as well as individual and group therapy sessions. Therapy sessions are tailored to each patient’s needs with emphasis on coping with pain and emotions. The psychologist is also responsible for program evaluation and research.

Anesthesiologist

The anesthesiologist assists in assessing and screening new patients to The Pain Centre and will facilitate further investigations to confirm or exclude a medical diagnosis. The anesthesiologist conducts anesthetic procedures for pain relief and co-ordinates the spinal cord stimulator and intrathecal pump procedures.

Physiatrist

The physiatrist assists in the assessment, medical treatment, and co-ordination of the rehabilitation of patients experiencing disabilities associated with various medical and chronic pain conditions.

Interventional Radiologist

Conducts procedures such as cervical facet blocks and neurotomies.

Neurosurgeon

Conducts procedures such as implantation of the Spinal Cord Stimulator and Intrathecal Pump

Clinical Nurse Leader - Neuromodulation Program

Conducts post procedural care of spinal cord stimulator and intrathecal pain medication pumps.

Clinical Nurse Specialist

Provides education and counseling on the pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches to pain management including relaxation and healing touch.

Occupational Therapists (OT)

The Occupational Therapist conducts functional and return-to-work assessments. The OT provides a practical and non-invasive approach to the management of pain focusing on problem solving and general lifestyle management. The OT works closely with the third party payer, patient, and employer to facilitate a successful return to meaningful work, when appropriate.

Physiotherapists

The physiotherapist conducts musculoskeletal assessments and provides active treatment. The physiotherapist creates a physio follow-up plan which may include ongoing physiotherapy at The Pain Centre or in the patient’s own community. Clients are also integrated into community programs where appropriate, such as gyms and pools.

Registered Nurses (RN) Inpatient Program

The RN provides the patient with an orientation to the Inpatient Program and the routine of the unit. The RN oversees the nursing care and general comfort of the patient while on the Unit as well as providing education regarding the diagnosis, diagnostic tests, and prescribed medication.

Social Worker and Registered Nurse (RN) Day Program

The social worker and Day Program nurse will assess the patient for the Day Program in order to match individual needs with the appropriate program format. They co-facilitate the groups within the Day Program which are aimed at enhancing coping skills and providing participants with a greater degree of control. Clients and family may meet individually with the social worker or nurse to address specific concerns which are not addressed within the group format.

Pharmacist

The team pharmacist provides the patient with counseling on the pharmacological approach to pain management.