Podcast Episode 13: What is Psychotherapy and How Can Psychological Stress Change Pain
Podcast Episode 13 - What is Psychotherapy and How Psychological Stress Effects Pain and Injuries - with Donovan Pyle
In this episode Helen and Reece chat to Psychotherapist Donovan Pyle. Donovan explains what Psychotherapy actually is, and and how he uses a type of therapy called Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in his practice.
Donovan also talks about the effect psychological (i.e. non-physical) stress can have on pain and injuries.
This episode is the first of 3 which all link very closely together. Partly because we couldn’t stop chatting!
What Our Experts Say
One of the most valuable messages from this episode is that treating pain means treating the person, rather than focusing only on the painful area. Thoughts, emotions and life stresses can influence how someone experiences pain and approaches movement. Pilates can support this whole-person approach by creating a safe environment in which clients can reconnect with their bodies, build confidence and gradually explore movement without fear.
Key Takeaways
- Pain is not influenced by physical factors alone – Psychological stress can affect how pain and injuries are experienced, so it may be helpful to consider what is happening in both the body and mind.
- Psychotherapy can help you explore unhelpful patterns – Working with a psychotherapist may help you understand how your thoughts, emotions and behaviours influence one another.
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy focuses on practical change – CBT looks at the relationship between the way you think, feel and behave, helping you identify patterns that may be affecting your wellbeing.
- Stress may influence injury recovery – Non-physical pressures can contribute to the way pain is experienced and may need to be considered alongside physical rehabilitation.
- A whole-person approach can provide greater understanding – Looking beyond the injured area can help build a clearer picture of the factors that may be affecting pain and recovery.
FAQs
1. What is psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is a form of talking therapy that provides an opportunity to explore your thoughts, emotions and behaviours with a trained professional.
2. What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, commonly known as CBT, looks at how thoughts, feelings and behaviours are connected. It can help you recognise and begin to change patterns that are causing difficulty.
3. Can psychological stress affect physical pain?
Yes. Psychological or non-physical stress can influence the way pain is experienced, even when the original problem or injury is physical.
4. Can stress affect my recovery from an injury?
Stress may influence pain and the way you respond to an injury. Considering psychological stress alongside physical rehabilitation may therefore provide a more complete approach to recovery.
5. Why should psychological factors be considered when treating pain?
Pain can be affected by more than the tissues or body part that initially became injured. Understanding your stress, thoughts and emotions may help explain why symptoms continue or change over time.
Feeling Inspired?
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Education is Key
These blogs are designed to give information to everyone, however, it is important to remember that everyone is different! If you have not seen one of our therapists and have any questions about injuries, what you have read or whether this may be useful to you, please just ask. We are more than happy to help anyone and point you in the right direction. Our biggest belief is that education is key. The more you understand about your injury, illness and movement, the more you are likely to improve.
If you are not sure whether this is for you, simply get in touch. We are here to help!
Published 24 Dec 2020 · Updated 3 Aug 2026