Why psychologist?
Our purpose is not to prove that your pain is “all in the mind.” Rather, it is to help you build effective coping skills so that you can enjoy a good quality of life. We can help separate your anxiety from the pain, so you no longer have to go through the emotional ups and downs. We will help you to:
- Feel Better
- Conquer Pain
- Lead a Productive Life
How can we help?
Managing your pain is all about rebuilding a good quality of life and this may involve setting goals which are important to you, such as spending more time with family and friends or becoming fitter. Pain experiences can include anxiety, mood upheaval, stress, anger, relationship difficulties, changing of family roles, inactivity, negative thinking, and many other challenging emotions and behaviours. We address these issues thoroughly.
What could we do for managing your pain?
Your pain management therapy begins with an assessment in order to understand your pain problems and needs. A therapy plan is outlined using the cognitive behavioural therapy model (CBT) but may also include other therapeutic approaches e.g. mindfulness, visualization or guided imagery, progressive muscle relaxation, and activity pacing.
Our sessions aim to provide a balance between therapeutic discussion and goal-focused work to build on your pain management strategies. Therapy may take place alongside medical treatments but is not a substitute for such treatments.
Therapies And Services Offered
Treatment is usually on an individual basis. It will be tailored to your particular situation, and our highly trained psychologists utilise evidence-based, scientific therapies combined with expert clinical knowledge and judgement to provide you with an optimal outcome. The main types of treatment available are:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
- Mindfulness-based therapy.
- Supportive counselling.
- Psychotherapy including Intense Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP).
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) including skills training.
These treatments are available to individuals in pain, and they may also be used as part of:
- Relationship, couple, and marital counselling
- Parent-child therapy
- Family therapy
- Group therapy
We will also work closely with your other treating doctors to co-ordinate your overall care.
POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY
Psychologists also play a valuable role in enhancing quality of life by improving an individual’s ability to function and perform well at work and at home. This can be accomplished using strategies designed to improve:
- Communication.
- Organisation.
- Motivation.
- Interpersonal effectiveness (dealing with others in difficult situations).
- Work, study, and sporting performance.
Our goal is to help you:
- Overcome your fears and weaknesses.
- Capitalise on your strengths.
- Assist you to achieve your true potential.
We will teach you simple skills and strategies which improve the way you see yourself, and how you interact with others personally, socially, and professionally.