What is pain management?
Pain is shaped by the body, the mind and life circumstances all at once. Worry, low mood, poor sleep and stress can make pain feel worse, and pain in turn feeds those problems. Pain management with a psychologist works on that cycle.
Sessions may cover pacing activity so you avoid boom-and-bust days, relaxation and attention strategies, planning for flare-ups, improving sleep, and dealing with the frustration, grief or anxiety that often come with ongoing pain. Approaches such as CBT and acceptance and commitment therapy are commonly used.
Who it can help
This support may suit you if:
- You have had pain for three months or longer
- Pain is affecting your mood, sleep or relationships
- You are recovering from a workplace or road injury
- You want to stay active and working while managing pain
- Your GP or pain team has suggested psychological support
How sessions work
Sessions run for about 50 minutes, in person at one of our clinics or by telehealth, which can help on days when travel is hard. With your permission, your psychologist can keep in touch with your GP, physiotherapist or other treating practitioners, so everyone is working towards the same goals.
Fees and funding
Pain management sessions may be covered through a mental health care plan (Medicare), WorkCover for an accepted work injury, DVA, private health extras or an NDIS plan. Funding depends on your situation, so call us about fees and rebates and we will explain your options.
How to get started
- If you want to claim a rebate, talk to your GP about a referral first.
- Call us on 0410 029 886 or send the short form on this page.
- Complete the online client intake form.
- Meet your psychologist to set goals that fit your life.
Referring a client or family member? Refer someone for pain management.
Prefer to see where we are first? Visit our locations page, or meet our team.