Psychological Support
Support designed to empower scoliosis patients and assist the healthcare providers treating them.
Psychological support for those living with and being treated for scoliosis or similar conditions
Whether it be initial diagnosis, watching and waiting, brace wearing, preparing or recovering from surgery or living with scoliosis as an adult, we are here to help support you through your journey considering more than just the curve.
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Beyond the physical curvature of the spine, scoliosis—particularly Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS)—exerts a profound psychological impact on individuals, often leading to mental health challenges that persist into adulthood. Factors influencing mental health include treatment burden, pain (in some cases) and research indicates that one third of patients with scoliosis feel shame regarding their bodies and experience higher rates of anxiety and depression compared to their peers. Because scoliosis often manifests during adolescence, it intersects with a critical period for self-image, making it particularly damaging to self-esteem, and 66% of parents may be unaware of the severity of their child's psychological distress, highlighting the need for better mental health support during treatment.​​​
Multiple studies are starting to show the benefits of adding pyschological support to scoliosis treatment.
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Psychology can be helpful for parents and patients with scoliosis:
- Processing emotions and challenges relating to diagnosis and brace wear/surgery
- Supporting parental involvement/ family dynamics
- Helping with practical coping strategies
- Addressing unhelpful thinking
- Dealing with low mood, anxiety, and body image concerns
Through partnering with Psychologists with training in Scoliosis Mental Health, we aim to inform care through a pilot study on the effects of adding psychological support/ care to the treatment of scoliosis for patients within our clinic, to see if we can offer a more permanent service for Australians. Peta Greaney from Growth in Mind Psychology, runs our FREE mentoring program, and can provide private counselling at her clinic or via Telehealth.
It is vital we address "the whole person and not just the curve" : Dr Manuel Rigo
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Group Support Program
Connecting with others who have similar experiences can be very empowering, our mentoring program is FREE to join, and unique in that you or you and your child are supported by a Psychologist. Sessions run virtually on a monthly basis.
Therapy with a Psychologist
Seeing a Psychologist that has undergone training on the physical and psychosocial impact of scoliosis helps to empower and support you or your child through your treatment and lead to improved outcomes.
Support Services
At QLD Scoliosis and Spine Clinics, we provide a biopsychosocial approach offering management for scoliosis for all people of all ages living with scoliosis or similar spinal condition.
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Scoliosis Australia endorse that successful treatment approaches need to focus on:
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Diagnosis & Monitoring: Early identification is crucial to prevent the progression of the curve.
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Brace wearing for curves at high risk of progression
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Beyond bracing, treatment often involves scoliosis-specific exercises (e.g., PSSE) to address the structural, postural, and muscular components of the curve. ​
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Management: While some curves require surgery, many patients successfully manage their condition with non-invasive methods.
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Life Quality: With proper management, individuals with scoliosis can maintain an active, normal lifestyle
Psychological Support FAQ
How do I sign up?
Click Join Us above to sign up and find out more information.
Do I need to have scoliosis to benefit from the services?
Each curve is unique, although the program is geared towards those with scoliosis, services are open to all people with variations of the spine and ribcage that need our help.
Do I need a referral to see a Psychologist?
You only need a referral from GP if you want MHCP for medicare rebate (which is worthwhile). If doing private health or privately funding you do not need a referral. You can join mentoring programs without a referral.