Why and When to Consider Seeing a Psychologist for Pain

Pain science makes one thing clear:

Pain science makes one thing clear:

Pain is more than a physical sensation.

It has cognitive, emotional, and behavioural components too.

Some people live with pain that fades into the background and doesn’t interfere with life. Others find pain overwhelming; dominating thoughts, interrupting sleep, reducing activity, or increasing fear and uncertainty.

If this sounds familiar, psychological strategies can help reduce the interference of pain.

A different question to explore

Instead of:

“How do I get rid of pain completely?”

Some people find it useful to explore:

“How can I reduce the impact pain has on my day and increase my quality of life?”

This shift can open new pathways when old ones haven’t been working.

When psychological support may help

You may find value in seeing a psychologist if:

• pain is limiting your activities or confidence
  

• your mood has been affected
  

• you feel stuck despite trying different treatments
  

• stress or worry add layers to your pain
  

• sleep has become difficult

Psychology is not about suggesting pain is “in your head.”

It’s about giving you more control over the things that influence pain.

Written by

Samuel Bulten

Exercise Physiologist | Masters in Medicine (Pain Management)

Director, Adapt Movement

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. These blogs are written by Sam Bulten and represent his opinions and insights and are based on his experience and interpretation of the research. As Sam is a human, these opinions and insights are not absolute truths.