17 Sep Break Free from Pain with Cognitive Functional Therapy (CFT)
At Brighton Spine & Sports Clinic, we’re committed to a holistic and evidence-driven approach to pain management. That’s why we’re proud to offer Cognitive Functional Therapy (CFT)—a modern, whole-person way to manage chronic back and neck pain.
What Is CFT, and Why Is It Different?
CFT moves beyond addressing pain purely as a structural issue. Instead, it targets the root causes of persistent pain by integrating physical movement, thought patterns, emotions, and lifestyle factors into one comprehensive treatment plan. This ensures that—not only are symptoms eased—but the underlying drivers of pain are addressed.
Our Three-Step CFT Approach
- Tailored Assessment
- Every person’s experience of pain is unique. Our CFT-trained physiotherapists spend time understanding your specific patterns, including movement behaviours and beliefs that may perpetuate your pain.
- Mind–Body Integration
- Combining hands-on therapies with cognitive and behavioural techniques, we guide you toward healthier movement, more adaptive thinking, and greater confidence in your body.
- Empowerment for Long-Term Recovery
- CFT is not about quick relief—it’s about giving you the tools for sustainable pain management and resilience.
Who Stands to Benefit?
Ideal candidates for CFT include individuals experiencing:
- Persistent lower back or neck pain
- Movement-related dysfunctions
- Conditions unresponsive to conventional treatments
Meet Our CFT-Trained Practitioners
Our clinic is staffed by a skilled and multidisciplinary team offering care across physiotherapy, osteopathy, myotherapy, clinical Pilates, exercise physiology, musculoskeletal medicine, neurology, sports medicine, and more.
Your CFT sessions will be led by physiotherapists Bruce Gilmore and Mitch Kornberg, both of whom have completed specialized training in CFT.
They’re supported by Dr. Kal Fried, a Sports and Exercise Physician with Fellowship from the Australian College of Sports Physicians who brings deep knowledge in persistent pain, pain neuroscience, and desensitization protocols.
Backed by Evidence—and Local Recognition
CFT is gaining momentum through clinical research and media attention across Australia. Notably, it was featured in a Channel 9 report highlighting university-led trials exploring its efficacy in chronic pain treatment—an indication of its growing clinical credibility.
Why Choose Brighton Spine & Sports Clinic?
- Comprehensive, coordinated care under one roof—from diagnostic ultrasound and injection therapies to clinical Pilates and rehabilitation medicine
- Exceptional facilities—including a rehabilitation gym and dedicated Pilates studio right in the heart of Brighton
- Convenient location and accessibility—located at 441 Bay Street, Brighton, with free parking and excellent access via nearby public transport
- Highly rated care—consistently receiving excellent reviews, with many patients praising our knowledgeable, thorough, and caring practitioners
Begin Your Pain-Free Journey with CFT
Chronic pain can limit your life—but it doesn’t have to define it. At Brighton Spine & Sports Clinic, we combine cognitive strategies with movement-based therapies to empower long-term recovery and renewed confidence in your body.
Ready to change your pain story? Contact us today to book your CFT assessment and take the first step toward lasting relief.
It is important to note that the specific interventions and strategies employed by any medical practitioner will depend on the individual’s unique needs. Each practitioner in a care team will work collaboratively with each other to provide comprehensive care and support for the individual.
If there is a part of your condition or injury that you are struggling to understand, be sure to seek clarification with your medical professional. None of the information in this article is a replacement for proper medical advice. Always seek advice from your trusted medical professional regarding your health and/or medical conditions.