Course overview

Addressing Mental Health in Musculoskeletal Care

Synopsis:
Mental health and pain are deeply intertwined—and physiotherapists and other musculoskeletal care providers are uniquely positioned to make a difference. This course explores how anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns shape recovery and influence pain outcomes. Drawing from current evidence, practical tools, and real-world cases, we’ll show you how to recognize signs of psychological distress, confidently navigate conversations, and make effective referrals—without stepping outside your scope.

You’ll walk away with screening tools (GAD-2, PHQ-2), language you can use tomorrow, and the confidence to support whole-person recovery.

What You’ll Learn:
  • Recognize how mental health issues like depression and anxiety present in MSK care
  • Understand the bidirectional relationship between mood, sleep, and pain
  • Use simple, validated screening tools in under one minute
  • Navigate safe, respectful conversations about mental health
  • Know when and how to refer to mental health professionals
  • Apply a biopsychosocial lens to persistent pain cases
Format
Online
Self-paced
Access
1 year
Audience
Any healthcare provider
Instructors
Sean Overin BHK, MPT, DPT
Dr. Jo-Epping Jordan RPsych


Duration
2 hours
Price
Free

Course Lessons

Testimonials

What our learners say

“I kinda used to freeze when patients opened up about anxiety or depression...I didn’t want to say the wrong thing. This course gave me really simple tools, language, and examples I could actually use. Now I am starting to feel more confident screening for mental health and knowing when and how to refer. It’s made me a better clinician.”
“I know psychologically informed care is an important piece of MSK care, but I just didn't know how to bring in mental health into the session. I also didn't want to overstep! The screening tools are fast, the strategies are clear, and the conversations feel pretty natural. Great course!