The Team – What we do

Psychologists work with group members to identify realistic aims for the programme and finding ways to cope with difficult emotions. We then work together to develop a plan to move forward, including learning skills to overcome any obstacles. There are opportunities to try out new ideas and develop new strengths. By gradually putting these into practice people find they feel able to do more and are less caught up in the thoughts, feelings and reactions around their pain.

Physiotherapists support group members to find ways to explore and manage their physical function. We know that changing how we do things, or trying activities you have not done for some time can be daunting. The focus is on working together on personal goals starting with a manageable amount of activity or exploring a movement in a different way.  By gradually modifying activity levels over time, people find that movement and activities can become easier, Many people find that they are able to regain some independence with tasks that were becoming increasingly difficult.

Occupational Therapists support group members to identify ways to balance daily activity and rest levels. We know that often the impact of pain affects how people manage daily activities, participate in hobbies or leisure activities and carry out life roles. We work together to explore ways to participate in activities that are important to you and there are opportunities to try new skills. By balancing daily activity levels people find they are able to do the things they not only need to do but also want to do and they often gain confidence in managing flare ups.

The Doctor and Nurse work with group members to explain the role of medication in the management of chronic pain. They may meet with you individually to help you reduce or make changes to the medication you take, if you feel the medication you take is not helping. With improved understanding of the role of medication in pain management, at times people begin to question if the medication benefits are out-weighing the side effects they experience and they can feel ready to explore making changes.