Pain Management Counselling
What is Pain Management Counselling?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is the most commonly used therapeutic approach employed with pain management counselling. It’s also the most widely-researched therapeutic modality regarding its efficacy for pain management. In control group studies, CBT is almost always at least as good as, or better, than other treatments.
Cognitive behavioural skills can change the way your mind influences your body. When you shift your thinking away from the pain, you can change your focus to more positive aspects of your life, thus altering the way your body responds to the anticipated pain and stress.
The goal of CBT is to change the way you think about the pain, so your body and mind respond better when you have episodes of pain.
What is the approach?
A collaborative approach with your therapist is the most efficacious. Strategies that focus on encouraging a problem-solving attitude will help you feel more in control.
In addition to CBT, your therapist may help you set reasonable and realistic goals to improve your quality of life. Homework assignments are an important part of this therapeutic process and may include regular journaling to create an increased awareness of what is affecting your pain, and what is working to manage your pain.
Regular sessions with your therapist allow for accountability, reflection and feedback on what is or is not working, and achieve your goals.