Persistent Pain support for Adults

Persistent pain is complex. It can have a huge impact daily function, mood, sleep, work, relationships and overall quality of life.

Our occupational therapy service provides support for adults living with persistent pain. We focus on improving functional capacity, rebuilding confidence in activity, and supporting long-term self-management.

This service is suitable for private clients and individuals referred by their GP under a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan.

Understanding Persistent Pain in Adults

Our approach focuses on supporting you as a whole person — not just your symptoms. We work alongside you to build a deeper understanding of your pain, reduce fear and uncertainty, and gently restore confidence in movement and daily activities. Together, we create a practical, personalised plan to help you return to the things that matter most in your life.

Our Clinical Approach

1. Comprehensive Functional Assessment

We begin by developing a detailed understanding of:

  • The client’s current pain experience

  • Their understanding and beliefs about pain

  • Functional limitations

  • Activity patterns

  • Psychosocial and environmental factors

  • Personal goals

This stage ensures intervention is individualised and clinically targeted.

2. Evidence-Based Pain Education

We provide education consistent with current research in persistent pain management, including:

  • The role of the central nervous system

  • Pain as a protective output

  • The difference between tissue damage and pain experience

  • Neuroplasticity and capacity for change

Education aims to reduce fear, increase understanding, and support behavioural change.

3. Identifying Patterns & Addressing Boom–Bust Cycles

Many individuals with persistent pain experience cycles of overactivity followed by symptom exacerbation.

Intervention focuses on:

  • Identifying behavioural and activity patterns

  • Understanding the balance between perceived threat and safety

  • Exploring the “safety surveillance system” and nervous system sensitisation

  • Developing pacing strategies to reduce flare-ups

This stage supports improved regulation and sustainable activity engagement.

4. Graded Re-Entry & Self-Management Planning

We implement structured, graded re-engagement in meaningful activities.

This may include:

  • Task-specific graded exposure

  • Functional capacity building

  • Energy conservation strategies

  • Return-to-work planning

  • Development of a personalised self-management plan

The focus is on restoring participation safely and progressively.

Get in Touch

Adults are capable of meaningful change at any stage of life. With the right support, clear education, and gradual re-engagement in valued activities, many people can rebuild confidence, increase participation, and improve their overall quality of life.

If you would like to explore whether this service is right for you, we welcome you to get in touch.