Working with people in pain. Presented by Daniel Arbilla AEP
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Exercise Physiologists
What if our aim for working with people in pain was to help them move towards a rich, full and meaningful life, to cultivate health, vitality and well-being through mindful values-based movement? Adapted from Russ Harris’ description of the aim of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), this enquiry may uncover for us the core intention of ACT. And, it might have us wondering how we can incorporate the ACT framework into our practice as Exercise Physiologists and movement professionals.
We are introduced to the processes of change: acceptance, presence, values, committed action, self as context, defusion and psychological flexibility. They are a framework (or hexaflex) assisting us to navigate an approach which you may already be hip to: moving towards what matters despite pain, rather than using exercise to ‘get rid’ of pain.
Navigating around cultural messaging of aiming for ‘pain-free movement’, is matched by the challenge of choosing language that resonates and engages the client’s willingness for working with this approach.
Daniel offers a toe dip into an expansive area of practice, opening up opportunity for deep learning and self-reflection. The real gem that’s uncovered is when we are working with the ACT framework: we can apply it our own experience as much as that of the client: de-centre ourselves in order to make space for their story.
Daniel Arbilla is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist working in private practice and is mentor to allied health professionals across Australia. He is passionate about coaching clients to improved health, behaviour change and self-management of symptoms; to building resilience and functional capacity through exercise. Sought after for consultancy, Daniel guides other clinicians through psychologically-informed, person-centred practice within a biopsychosocial framework. Dedicated to continually improving his knowledge and skills, Daniel aims to empower all clients with the strategies and tools they need to take action towards their valued goals.
The ESSA Professional Development Committee certifies that this Professional Development offering meets the criteria for 1 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Points. Available to download or stream now.