The psychology of pain: a CBT approach

In this unique course, you will learn new tools to help your patients get rid of pain in a fast and sustainable way. 80% of chronic pain comes from a negative emotional or mental state. CBT is an effective way to support your patients toward a healthier lifestyle. Your clients will love you for that!

Testimonials

“Finally, a course that bridges the gap between physical therapy and the psychology of pain.”

by Lara H. Physiotherapist

“This course changed the way I work with chronic pain patients. I used to focus only on movement and tissue, but now I’m addressing the why behind their fear and avoidance. The tools are practical, the science is solid, and my clients are responding better than ever.”

“Every therapist needs this.”

Dr. Reem K.

“I used to feel helpless when clients talked about pain. Now, I know how to guide them through fear, mindset, and behavior patterns with real structure. Dr. Jad breaks it down so clearly. I’ve used the pacing and journaling tools in almost every session since!”

“A must for anyone doing hands-on therapy.”

Anthony A.

“As an osteopath and breathworker, I needed something to tie the body and the mind together. This course gave me exactly that. It’s not fluff—it’s actionable. The fear-avoidance cycle module alone was worth the price.”

Learning outcomes

After completing the course you will be able to:

  • Explain the biopsychosocial model of pain, and how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors contribute to the pain experience.

  • Identify common maladaptive cognitive patterns in clients with chronic or persistent pain (e.g., catastrophizing, fear-avoidance, all-or-nothing thinking).

  • Apply core CBT strategies such as cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, and exposure to help clients manage and reduce their pain.

  • Break the pain-anxiety-depression cycle by using evidence-based frameworks for emotional regulation and thought management.

  • Use practical tools and scripts (e.g., thought tracking, pain journaling, pacing techniques) to guide clients through behavior change and pain reframing.

  • Integrate breathwork, mindfulness, and body-based awareness techniques into a CBT-informed approach for a more holistic pain management plan.

  • Adapt interventions to different professional contexts, whether in physiotherapy, coaching, mental health, or wellness settings.

  • Increase client engagement and adherence by helping them understand their role in pain perception and self-regulation.

Instructor

Senior instructor Jad Wehbe

Dr. Jad Wehbe started his career as a Physical therapist in 2002. Soon enough, he realized that the body aspect is not enough to help people in their healing journey and started studying the human brain on his own. He then gained in-depth knowledge from renowned institutes worldwide in Hypnotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Guided Brain Imagery, and many other powerful techniques, namely: Brain Working Recursive Therapy, Rebirthing Breathing Therapy, etc. Dr. Jad Wehbe earned his doctorate in Physical Therapy and specialized in Traditional Chinese medicine at Tianjin University. He was fascinated by how this medicine links emotions to the physical aspects of the human body. Throughout his career, Dr. Jad Wehbe worked as a University lecturer at Saint Joseph University in Beirut and as a clinical mind and body practitioner. Moreover, he was a spokesperson for different TV channels and international events. Dr. Wehbe founded The Bridge Institute out of his passion for education and mental health.

FAQ

  • Who is this course for?

    This course is designed for physiotherapists, osteopaths, chiropractors, nurses, wellness coaches, mental health professionals, breathwork facilitators, and bodyworkers who work with clients experiencing chronic or persistent pain. Whether you’re in a clinical setting or a holistic practice, this course will give you practical tools to address the cognitive and emotional components of pain. No prior CBT training is required.

  • Do I need to be a licensed therapist to take this course?

    No. This course is built for non-therapists too. You’ll learn CBT-based strategies and tools that can be ethically and practically used by coaches, PTs, and wellness professionals in non-clinical settings.

  • How is this course different from other pain science or CBT trainings?

    Most CBT or pain courses are either too clinical or too general. This course blends evidence-based CBT with mind-body practices like breathwork and mindfulness, giving you tools you can use immediately, whether you're a PT, coach, or wellness practitioner.

  • Can I use what I learn in 1:1 client sessions?

    Absolutely. This course is designed to be practical, giving you clear strategies to apply with clients—either as standalone techniques or integrated into your existing work.

  • Is this course accredited or does it provide CEUs?

    Yes. This course is internationally accredited by the IPHM (International Practitioners of Holistic Medicine). Upon completion, you'll receive a certificate of completion, which can be used for professional development or submitted to your local licensing or accrediting body for potential CEU recognition (where applicable).