Spinal Cord Stimulator Evaluations at Del Ray Psych
Comprehensive, compassionate psychological evaluations to support safe and effective pain treatment.
Understanding Spinal Cord Stimulation
For individuals living with chronic pain, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) can offer meaningful relief when other treatments haven’t worked. An SCS device uses gentle electrical pulses delivered to the spinal cord to interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain. Many patients experience significant improvements in pain levels, mobility, and quality of life.
Before beginning this process, most physicians require a psychological evaluation to help ensure the treatment is safe, appropriate, and likely to lead to positive results.
Why Is a Psychological Evaluation Required?
A psychological assessment is a standard—and often insurance-required—step before moving forward with an SCS trial or permanent implant. This evaluation helps your medical team determine:
Your overall readiness for the procedure
Whether emotional or psychological factors may affect treatment outcomes
What support you may need before, during, and after the procedure
Any mental health concerns (such as depression, anxiety, or trauma) that may impact recovery or pain management
It’s important to know:
Having mental health concerns does not disqualify you from SCS treatment.
Rather, it helps us identify the right supports to set you up for success.
What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?
SCS involves placing electrodes near the spinal cord that deliver mild electrical impulses to reduce the perception of pain. Patients typically start with a temporary trial, where an external pulse generator is connected to electrodes placed near the affected area.
If the trial provides strong pain relief, a permanent device may be implanted under the skin.
Because this is an invasive procedure near the spine, understanding your emotional and psychological readiness is essential to ensure the best possible outcome.
What to Expect During Your Pre-Surgery Evaluation
Your SCS psychological evaluation at Del Ray Psych & Wellness is straightforward and typically lasts 45–60 minutes.
During your appointment, you can expect:
1. Health & Behavioral Questionnaires
You’ll complete several brief assessments that help us understand how chronic pain is affecting your daily life, mood, coping strategies, and functioning.
2. Clinical Interview with a Pain-Specialized Psychologist
Your provider will talk with you about:
Your pain history and previous treatments
Your understanding of the SCS procedure
Current stressors, mood, and mental health symptoms
Your support system and day-to-day functioning
Your expectations for pain relief and recovery
Awareness of potential risks and benefits
3. Review & Recommendations
At the end of the evaluation, your psychologist will review the findings with you and answer any questions related to the psychological portion of the process.
A detailed report will then be sent to your referring provider to assist with treatment planning. Any medical or device-specific questions will be referred back to your physician or surgical team.
Our Approach
At Del Ray Psych & Wellness, we understand that chronic pain affects every aspect of life. Our team provides:
Expertise in pain psychology
Compassionate, nonjudgmental assessment
Clear communication with your medical providers
Supportive recommendations to improve your treatment readiness and outcomes
Whether you are preparing for an SCS trial or moving toward a permanent implant, we are here to ensure you feel informed, supported, and empowered.
Schedule Your SCS Evaluation
If you’ve been referred for a spinal cord stimulator evaluation, our clinicians are ready to help you take the next step in your pain-management journey.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment or to learn more about our assessment services at Del Ray Psych & Wellness.