The Mind-Body Connection: Coping and Living with Physical (and/or somatic and/or medically unexplained) symptoms (e.g., chronic pain, headaches, fatigue) is a comprehensive evidence-based treatment that teaches individuals new skills to better manage physical symptoms and reduce the impact of physical symptoms on school/work, relationships, sleep, activities, and/or emotional well-being

Structure

On average: 8-12 weekly sessions
2-3 booster/follow-up sessions

Approach

Compassionate and empowering manualized treatment
grounded in Cognitive-behavioural therapy and Acceptance
and Commitment approaches
Easy-to-use handouts, worksheets, and strategy lists
provided weekly

Topics Covered

Education about mind-body connection Sleep hygiene and physical activity (e.g., pacing) education Overview of stress and coping with stress techniques Discussion of connection among thoughts, feelings, and behaviours Cognitive/thinking strategies Relaxation and mindfulness strategies Assertive communication and problem solving techniques Discussion of values Creation of personalized coping plan

 

*Please note that in order to participate in this treatment, clients must have
previously received a full medical work-up for their physical symptoms and
must not be awaiting any outstanding medical investigations or procedures.