There is growing research into psychological treatments for pain conditions, such as music therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based interventions. However, a unifying theoretical framework that elucidates the cognitive-emotional mechanisms underlying these treatments remains elusive. As a result, less conventional interventions such as oral narratives are not considered by the literature as potential avenues for pain management. By understanding the underlying mechanisms of self-referential processing, the default mode network and the dynamic interplay between cognitive, emotional, and physiological processes in pain perception, we can start to look at the potential benefits of storytelling as an NPA and develop more effective and patient-centred approaches in treatment.