Hi Jules,
I was refered to a pain psychologist by my pain management doc several months ago..

Because I have practically no remaining 'sick leave' hours due to injury/surgery and countless doctor appointments I've had in the last three years, I see her during my lunch time..I eat lunch on the freeway on the way to her office weekly!! this aspect is stressful...oh well....

Nevertheless, it took a while for our relationship to be established, and for me to feel comfortable with her..we have different personality types..she is very reserved, whereas I am more animated. At first her demeanor intimidated me...I felt uneasy in expressing my emotions and thoughts...

Over time, though, I have relaxed and we have a decent rapport.
In several meetings, a floodgate of emotion has poured forth with tears, sobbing, and talking out my frustration, demoralization, anger, exhaustion, and pain. It is helpful to have this interpersonal encounter...

I have developed a great appreciation for this hour with her, as it is a time to be face to face with a person who doesn't judge me and who is there to listen to my defeats and victories, my tears, or expression of hope, and the 'RSD loneliness.'

She also is teaching me a technique called "autogenics" where she helps me get into a very deep state of relaxaton. She was a physcial therapist for many years, and truly does understand the dynamics of pain.

She has also provided me with a great book called "Managing Pain Before it Manages You" as well as a couple of relaxaton C.D.s
While she will never truly viscerally understand the experience of RSD pain, and the frustration of limited mobility, it is a place for me to 'unload.'

Jules, I would give it a try...it takes time to make a connection with a therapist...sometimes it is instantaneous, and for others it builds slowly.....
I am very fortunate that W.C. is authorizing these sessions.

It is their 'gift' to me to keep me in the workforce (pardon my cynicism...)

I try and manage my pain with meditation, and relaxtion techniques that I've explored on my own..I've declined meds except for neurontin, which has enough side effects of its own...I know at some point, I may have to add more meds...I'm so grateful for the mobility scooter..

If you decide to add this avenue of relief, I hope have a positive experience!!
Hope4thebest