Episode 78: Reclaiming Agency When the Body Feels Like the Enemy

What happens when persistent symptoms start calling the shots? In this episode, Bart van Buchem and Tim Beames dig into the concepts of agency and body ownership in persistent pain — how they differ, how they're disrupted, and what clinicians can do about it. They discuss the clinical reality of patients wanting to disconnect from painful body parts, the role of hypervigilance and suggestibility, and why uncertainty can fuel the cycle. The conversation then moves into practical territory: mirror therapy, graded motor imagery, visual feedback, and how to introduce experiential techniques in a way that feels safe and meaningful. They also touch on the exciting potential of VR and AI in rehabilitation. A clinically grounded conversation for therapists working with people in long-term pain. 🔗 Explore our full session library and premium membership at lepubscientifique.com