Together, we overcome pain.

Therapies recommended by painclinicNI

At PainClinicNI, we believe that living well with pain is possible. Alongside medical treatments, a variety of therapeutic approaches can help you manage symptoms, improve your function, and regain control of your life. Our therapy approach is based on the latest evidence in pain science and mind-body medicine.

Talking Therapies

Chronic pain can take a toll on your mental and emotional wellbeing. Talking therapies help you make sense of the experience, reduce distress, and build emotional resilience. These may
include:

Many patients find that their pain feels more manageable once they’re less anxious, more confident, and better supported.

Pain-focused counselling 

to support adjustment and coping.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) 

to challenge unhelpful thought patterns.

Trauma Focused Therapy 

to control and manage trauma induced PTSD (e.g.EMDR)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) 

to help you focus on living well,
even with pain.

 

Keep Moving: Gentle Physical Activity

Movement is medicine, but it needs to be paced and safe. Our clinicians and physiotherapists work with you to:

  • Rebuild confidence in movement.
  • Reduce fear of pain or injury.
  • Introduce graded activity – small steps that grow over time.
  • Prevent deconditioning.

 

We encourage activities like gentle walking, stretching, tai chi, or swimming, tailored to your capacity.

 

Mind-Body Techniques

Your nervous system plays a major role in chronic pain. Mind-body practices help calm and regulate the system, reducing pain sensitivity. These may include:

  • Autogenic Relaxation training
  • Yoga
  • Tai chi
  • Breathwork
  • Guided imagery
  • Mindfulness meditation

Regular practice can reduce pain flare-ups, improve sleep, and enhance your sense of
wellbeing.

 

Sleep Hygiene


Pain often disrupts sleep, and poor sleep makes pain worse. That’s why restorative sleep is a key target in therapy. We provide guidance on:

  • Healthy sleep habits and routines.
  • Reducing night-time pain triggers.
  • Relaxation techniques to aid falling asleep.
  • Managing racing thoughts and anxiety at bedtime.
 

Diet and the Microbiome

Emerging research suggests a link between gut health and chronic pain conditions. We help you explore:

  • Anti-inflammatory dietary choices.
  • The impact of sugar, ultra-processed foods, and artificial additives.
  • Foods that support gut-brain health and microbiome balance.
  • When appropriate, referral to a specialist dietitian.
 

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT is a powerful psychological approach used in modern pain clinics. Instead of fighting pain, ACT helps you:

  • Acknowledge the pain without letting it control you.
  • Identify what really matters in your life.
  • Take small, meaningful actions towards your values – even with pain.

ACT doesn’t aim to remove the pain, but to remove the struggle around it.

 

The Pacing Principle


Pacing is a core self-management strategy for people living with persistent pain. It helps you:

  • Avoid the boom-bust cycle – doing too much on good days, then crashing.
  • Plan balanced activity and rest periods.
  • Maintain energy and consistency in daily life.

We work with you to develop a sustainable rhythm that suits your body and goals.

 

A Whole-Person Approach

At PainClinicNI, therapies are not “one size fits all.” We tailor your treatment plan to reflect your:

  •  Pain condition and symptoms
  •  Lifestyle and preferences
  •  Physical and emotional needs
  •  Personal goals

Our aim is to empower you, not just treat you.