Pain psychology

What it is

Structured, skills-based sessions with a psychologist experienced in persistent pain, using cognitive behavioural and acceptance-based approaches adapted specifically for pain rather than for mood disorders.

Who it suits

• ·Pain that is disturbing sleep or concentration
• ·Fear of movement following an injury or a failed treatment
• ·Difficulty pacing — the boom-and-bust cycle
• ·Anyone being considered for neuromodulation, where it is standard

What sessions cover

• ·Sleep, addressed directly and early
• ·Pacing and activity planning that survives a bad week
• ·Working with unhelpful thoughts about movement and damage
• ·Communicating about pain with family, employers and other clinicians
• ·A written flare plan you can use without an appointment

What progress looks like

More consistent activity, better sleep, and less of the week lost to recovery from the last flare. Pain intensity often changes too, but later.

Honest limits

It is work, and it takes weeks. It is also one of the best-supported treatments in persistent pain, which is why it is offered as part of the plan rather than at the end of it.