Living with Multiple Sclerosis: A Group-Based Psychological Support Intervention for Newly Diagnosed People with MS (LiMS)

Connecting theory, research and intervention, Living with Multiple Sclerosis offers an effective, innovative and comprehensive group-based psychological support intervention specifically aimed at people newly diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (LiMS).

The book explains the theoretical foundations of the intervention, based on developmental psychology in the life cycle, and considering the illness as a challenge to personal development. It analyzes the psychological aspects addressed in the intervention: the redefinition of identity, the sense of coherence, the sense of self-efficacy in coping with the illness, the emotional experiences, the relationship between thoughts and emotions and the effective communication strategies. Describing all session-by-session activities that are carried out in group meetings, it allows for timely replication of the intervention, whilst still accommodating possible adaptations to specific local and cultural contexts. It gives a concrete, positive perspective of personal fulfilment for people living with MS. Furthermore, it illustrates the central role of research in the project and presents new perspectives in research and intervention focused on parenthood.

The book is valuable reading for psychologists, researchers and health professionals such as occupational or rehabilitation therapists working with people with MS, as well as students specializing in clinical, health or developmental psychology.

Silvia Bonino, psychologist (M.A., Ph.D.) and psychotherapist, is Emeritus Professor of Developmental and Educational Psychology at the Department of Psychology in the University of Turin (Italy). She is the author of Nature and Culture in Intimate Partner Violence: Sex, Love and Equality (Routledge, 2018) and Coping with Chronic Illness: Theories, Issues and Lived Experiences (Routledge, 2021).

Martina Borghi, psychologist (M.A.) and psychotherapist, works at CReSM (Regional Referral Centre for Multiple Sclerosis), AOU San Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, Orbassano, Torino (Italy) and collaborates with AISM (Italian SM Society).

Emanuela Calandri, psychologist (M.A., Ph.D.), is Associate Professor of Developmental and Educational Psychology at the Department of Psychology in the University of Turin (Italy).

Federica Graziano, psychologist (M.A., Ph.D.), works at the Department of Psychology in the University of Turin (Italy).