ABSTRACT
The Western medical model predominantly centers on acute care and patients expect that a diagnosis and treatment plan will resolve their issues. Yet millions of people live with chronic pain. As a Medical Family Therapist, the author of this chapter explores how to create space for acceptance of pain and the inescapable truth for people living with pain: that no one can know what another’s experience of pain is like. The ORCA-Stance helps the therapist to hold a vital, culturally humble position. This means that professionals do not have to have all the answers. When a patient is focused on getting rid of the pain, they may perceive it as the enemy. This invites a sense of defeat and victimization. When pain is validated and accommodated, it fosters a befriending of the pain. This invites an openness to learn how to live with it. The patient is empowered to manage it based on what is important to them, including surrendering to the pain. A case study is examined and best practices suggested. As pain is befriended, it becomes an element in the patient’s life, making room for joy and well-being.
