Dr. Judith Scheman

Dr. Judith Scheman is a highly accomplished psychologist specializing in the field of behavioral medicine at the Cleveland Clinic's Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute. With over 35 years of experience in general psychology, Dr. Scheman has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in chronic pain rehabilitation and the psychological aspects of physical illnesses.

Dr. Scheman earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Washington in 1977, followed by a Master of Arts and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and Behavioral Medicine from Kent State University, completed in 1988. Her education was further enriched by an internship at the Cleveland Veterans Administration Medical Center, where she specialized in behavioral medicine, risk factor reduction in cardiology, addictions, and pain management.

Previously, Dr. Scheman served as the Director of Psychology, Education, and Research in the Center for Neurological Restoration at the Cleveland Clinic for 21 years. She is the Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Interdisciplinary Pain Rehabilitation Special Interest Group in the American Pain Society and a member of several professional organizations, including the International Association for the Study of Pain and the American Psychological Association. She is also a member of the American Academy of Pain Medicine and co-founder of the Pain Psychology Special Interest group, contributing to several task forces.

Dr.Scheman's clinical practice is primarily focused on patients with various gastrointestinal disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and functional swallowing problems. She plays a crucial role in helping patients manage stress and anxiety related to their medical conditions through techniques such as deep relaxation therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and biofeedback. Dr.Scheman emphasizes the importance of addressing both the physical and psychological components of pain, and her approach to treatment includes a thorough review of a patient's medical records to understand their broader health context.

Her work is grounded in the understanding that psychological treatment can significantly ease distress and improve symptoms in patients with chronic digestive pain. She advocates for early exposure to behavioral medicine education to enhance the effectiveness of medical treatment. Dr.Scheman's expertise is particularly valuable in preparing patients for surgeries and managing postoperative pain, emphasizing the importance of behavioral medicine in improving patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

In summary, Dr. Judith Scheman's extensive experience and specialized focus in behavioral medicine make her a valuable asset to the Cleveland Clinic and a significant contributor to the field of psychology (Judith Scheman, Ph.D. | Cleveland Clinic) (Judith D Scheman-baumann, Psychologist in Cleveland, OH) (Using Behavioral Medicine to Manage Psychological Issues Caused By GI Disorders) (How Behavioral Medicine Interventions Can Help Your Patients with Chronic Digestive Pain – Consult QD).