Goal setting is considered one of four key pillars (along with pain neuroscience education, sleep hygiene, and aerobic exercise) that are key to the recovery of function in persons with pain, yet it is often cited as one of the more difficult aspects in the treatment of persistent pain and is complicated by the biopsychosocial factors that underlie the complexity of the pain experience. To encourage active engagement and autonomy in their treatment, our clients must not only collaborate in goal setting but also be trained in all aspects of the process to ensure the carryover of these skills beyond treatment as new challenges arise.
