Photo of Melinda Brown, Counsellor in Queensland
Melinda Brown
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Coomera, QLD 4209
Do you suffer from health or pain problems? I help adults navigate the complexities of chronic pain and chronic illness through evidence-based counselling approaches. If you want to decrease your worry and feel supported on your health/pain/illness journey, I'm the right fit for you. I'm Melinda: Generalist Counsellor (Variety of Concerns - i.e., stress, anxiety) and Chronic Pain and Illness Specialist. My goal is to create a safe space in the midst of chaos, where you can not only survive, but thrive! Taking the courageous step of seeking help is a significant decision, and I deeply respect your commitment to this journey.
Do you suffer from health or pain problems? I help adults navigate the complexities of chronic pain and chronic illness through evidence-based counselling approaches. If you want to decrease your worry and feel supported on your health/pain/illness journey, I'm the right fit for you. I'm Melinda: Generalist Counsellor (Variety of Concerns - i.e., stress, anxiety) and Chronic Pain and Illness Specialist. My goal is to create a safe space in the midst of chaos, where you can not only survive, but thrive! Taking the courageous step of seeking help is a significant decision, and I deeply respect your commitment to this journey.
0415 350 544 View 0415 350 544
Photo of Psych-ed Psychology / Sandy Ogier, Psychologist in Queensland
Psych-ed Psychology / Sandy Ogier
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
She has additional expertise in Chronic pain, Gambling Addiction, Suicide prevention, and Carer's resilience.
We offer 100% customised treatment plan, combining specific self-exploration and mindfulness, with the result of feeling less stuck and being able to move forward in life using inner strengths long term. A powerful new psychotherapy based on cutting-edge research into how the human mind works (3rd wave CBT), called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, is used to create a meaningful life (perspectives and values) and skills. It has been clinically proven to be successful in a wide range of psychological problems such as Anxiety, trauma, self/shame, depression, stress, bullying, emotions/anger/grief, sleep, and suicidal thoughts.
She has additional expertise in Chronic pain, Gambling Addiction, Suicide prevention, and Carer's resilience.
We offer 100% customised treatment plan, combining specific self-exploration and mindfulness, with the result of feeling less stuck and being able to move forward in life using inner strengths long term. A powerful new psychotherapy based on cutting-edge research into how the human mind works (3rd wave CBT), called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, is used to create a meaningful life (perspectives and values) and skills. It has been clinically proven to be successful in a wide range of psychological problems such as Anxiety, trauma, self/shame, depression, stress, bullying, emotions/anger/grief, sleep, and suicidal thoughts.
(03) 6146 3252 View (03) 6146 3252
Photo of Sarah Dakhili, Counsellor in Queensland
Sarah Dakhili
Counsellor, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Red Hill, QLD 4059  (Online Only)
Sarah is a Psychotherapist and Mental Health Social Worker. She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 12 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD. Her motto is simple: “Supporting clients in creating authentic power within themselves and in turn being able to make what was once difficult, easier”.
Sarah is a Psychotherapist and Mental Health Social Worker. She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 12 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD. Her motto is simple: “Supporting clients in creating authentic power within themselves and in turn being able to make what was once difficult, easier”.
(07) 3130 0085 View (07) 3130 0085
Photo of Ayna Hennessy, Counsellor in Queensland
Ayna Hennessy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
Overwhelmed? I have lived experience and extensive knowledge of the complexities of ADHD, Sensory Processing, Autism, disordered eating & chronic pain. My unique life with exposure to diversity and unexpected curveballs has shaped me into an insightful, reflective and understanding counsellor. My thirst for knowledge, hyper-focus skills and resolve to fight led to me seeking out my own answers surrounding my health. It finally paid off, & I hope it can help you. I am treated/mentored/supervised and trained by the MVPs in ADHD & its many comorbidities which helps you. I do not refuse vulnerable & complex clients; I used to be one.
Overwhelmed? I have lived experience and extensive knowledge of the complexities of ADHD, Sensory Processing, Autism, disordered eating & chronic pain. My unique life with exposure to diversity and unexpected curveballs has shaped me into an insightful, reflective and understanding counsellor. My thirst for knowledge, hyper-focus skills and resolve to fight led to me seeking out my own answers surrounding my health. It finally paid off, & I hope it can help you. I am treated/mentored/supervised and trained by the MVPs in ADHD & its many comorbidities which helps you. I do not refuse vulnerable & complex clients; I used to be one.
(03) 7003 2926 View (03) 7003 2926
Photo of Kate Deakin, Psychotherapist in Queensland
Kate Deakin
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
I am a general psychotherapist, counsellor, body psychotherapist, meditation & embodiment teacher. I offer individual therapy & online grounding & embodiment meditation classes. I work with: -Anxiety, depression, difficult emotions -Self-esteem -Chronic pain -Insomnia -Relationship issues -Existential issues: fear of death, illness, isolation, uncertainty, change, loss -Lack of meaning (& fulfilment) -Life goals -'Psychosomatic' issues e.g. chronic fatigue, gastro issues -Grief -Sensitivity -Building resilience -Making decisions -Your relationship with time -'OCD' -'panic attacks' -General life challenges -Breathing related issues
I am a general psychotherapist, counsellor, body psychotherapist, meditation & embodiment teacher. I offer individual therapy & online grounding & embodiment meditation classes. I work with: -Anxiety, depression, difficult emotions -Self-esteem -Chronic pain -Insomnia -Relationship issues -Existential issues: fear of death, illness, isolation, uncertainty, change, loss -Lack of meaning (& fulfilment) -Life goals -'Psychosomatic' issues e.g. chronic fatigue, gastro issues -Grief -Sensitivity -Building resilience -Making decisions -Your relationship with time -'OCD' -'panic attacks' -General life challenges -Breathing related issues
(02) 9100 0463 View (02) 9100 0463
Photo of Lisa Abraham, Psychologist in Queensland
Lisa Abraham
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
In my public health role, I am a Clinical Psychologist in Chronic Pain service on the NSW mid-north coast and have previously worked in a Diabetes Clinic at a major public hospital in Sydney.
As your psychologist, I work collaboratively with you to help you pursue a more fulfilling life. That means understanding your needs and therapy preferences and involving you in all decisions about your personalised treatment plan. My compassionate approach means you can trust me to listen without judgement and use evidence-based therapy to help you develop your self-awareness and confidence. The therapies I draw on are strength-based so they emphasise your resilience and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.
In my public health role, I am a Clinical Psychologist in Chronic Pain service on the NSW mid-north coast and have previously worked in a Diabetes Clinic at a major public hospital in Sydney.
As your psychologist, I work collaboratively with you to help you pursue a more fulfilling life. That means understanding your needs and therapy preferences and involving you in all decisions about your personalised treatment plan. My compassionate approach means you can trust me to listen without judgement and use evidence-based therapy to help you develop your self-awareness and confidence. The therapies I draw on are strength-based so they emphasise your resilience and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.
(02) 8105 5060 View (02) 8105 5060
Photo of Liberated Mind & Body, Psychologist in Queensland
Liberated Mind & Body
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kirwan, QLD 4817
Jessica has a passion for working with PTSD and complex PTSD. She has a background working with a variety of mental health concerns and presentations such as trauma, depression, anxiety, FND, chronic pain, adjustment and stress. Jessica facilitates meaning making and understanding by working together with her clients to support them on their journey with inner healing and building better lives.
Jessica has a passion for working with PTSD and complex PTSD. She has a background working with a variety of mental health concerns and presentations such as trauma, depression, anxiety, FND, chronic pain, adjustment and stress. Jessica facilitates meaning making and understanding by working together with her clients to support them on their journey with inner healing and building better lives.
(07) 4428 7614 View (07) 4428 7614
Photo of Anne Taylor, Counsellor in Queensland
Anne Taylor
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Bardon, QLD 4065
I offer individual counselling services for depression, anxiety, stress-related disorders, chronic pain, physical illness, trauma, grief and loss, insomnia, difficult life transitions and relationship issues. I am also offer mindfulness-based therapies to groups.
I offer individual counselling services for depression, anxiety, stress-related disorders, chronic pain, physical illness, trauma, grief and loss, insomnia, difficult life transitions and relationship issues. I am also offer mindfulness-based therapies to groups.
(07) 2100 4006 View (07) 2100 4006
Photo of Senta Sharp Counselling, Counsellor in Queensland
Senta Sharp Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Paddington, QLD 4064
Feeling overwhelmed, angry, alone, sad or burned out can happen to us all, no matter how successful you are. As a counsellor, I offer support and help to understand your issues, find clarity, make a plan, change direction, feel stronger, and more resilient. I’ll help you cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger, difficult relationships, medical issues, chronic pain, weight-loss, identity issues, fertility issues, low self-esteem, and life transitions. Take time to focus on you & your mental health. No referral or health care plan needed, just connect and start this week to live a better, calmer, happier life.
Feeling overwhelmed, angry, alone, sad or burned out can happen to us all, no matter how successful you are. As a counsellor, I offer support and help to understand your issues, find clarity, make a plan, change direction, feel stronger, and more resilient. I’ll help you cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger, difficult relationships, medical issues, chronic pain, weight-loss, identity issues, fertility issues, low self-esteem, and life transitions. Take time to focus on you & your mental health. No referral or health care plan needed, just connect and start this week to live a better, calmer, happier life.
(07) 3186 9745 View (07) 3186 9745
Photo of Stacey Koniw, Psychologist in Queensland
Stacey Koniw
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Stacey is a Clinical Psychologist who has worked in diverse populations in a variety of settings. Her experience mainly involves working with adults, with a special interest treating young and older adults. Presenting problems offered in this setting includes mood, anxiety, stress, adjustment, grief, sleep, somatic and chronic pain issues. She also provides assessment/treatment for Adult ADHD and support to those experiencing chronic disease and life limiting illness. Her background work has been in a child development team, correctional facility (low and high risk) and with inpatients/outpatients in a hospital and home setting.
Stacey is a Clinical Psychologist who has worked in diverse populations in a variety of settings. Her experience mainly involves working with adults, with a special interest treating young and older adults. Presenting problems offered in this setting includes mood, anxiety, stress, adjustment, grief, sleep, somatic and chronic pain issues. She also provides assessment/treatment for Adult ADHD and support to those experiencing chronic disease and life limiting illness. Her background work has been in a child development team, correctional facility (low and high risk) and with inpatients/outpatients in a hospital and home setting.
(07) 3186 9466 View (07) 3186 9466
Photo of Nikki Bray, Psychologist in Queensland
Nikki Bray
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Runaway Bay, QLD 4216
Clinical Psychologist and Owner at BrayPsych Clinical Psychology on the Gold Coast. I have availability for new adult clients for therapy via telehealth or in person. I also offer neuroaffirming Autism assessments for adults. I I like to describe myself as an enthusiastic and compassionate therapist. My values are empowerment, self-advocacy and authenticity. I provide support for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, panic, phobias, OCD, chronic pain, emotion dysregulation difficulties, grief, low self-esteem, perfectionism, adjustment to life changes, autistic burnout, and supporting neurodivergent adults.
Clinical Psychologist and Owner at BrayPsych Clinical Psychology on the Gold Coast. I have availability for new adult clients for therapy via telehealth or in person. I also offer neuroaffirming Autism assessments for adults. I I like to describe myself as an enthusiastic and compassionate therapist. My values are empowerment, self-advocacy and authenticity. I provide support for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, panic, phobias, OCD, chronic pain, emotion dysregulation difficulties, grief, low self-esteem, perfectionism, adjustment to life changes, autistic burnout, and supporting neurodivergent adults.
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Photo of Dr Natalia Rusnac, Psychologist in Queensland
Dr Natalia Rusnac
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Woolloongabba, QLD 4102  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist with a special interest in supporting adults who identify as neurodivergent, for example adults who are on the autism spectrum and/or who are struggling with ADHD symptoms. I work with a wide range of difficulties, such as self-esteem issues, chronic health concerns, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, emotion regulation difficulties, grief and loss, trauma, chronic pain, sleep disturbance, burnout. I want to go beyond coping and help people build lives that bring them joy, because coping is not the same as being happy.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with a special interest in supporting adults who identify as neurodivergent, for example adults who are on the autism spectrum and/or who are struggling with ADHD symptoms. I work with a wide range of difficulties, such as self-esteem issues, chronic health concerns, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, emotion regulation difficulties, grief and loss, trauma, chronic pain, sleep disturbance, burnout. I want to go beyond coping and help people build lives that bring them joy, because coping is not the same as being happy.
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Photo of Healing Connections Psychology, Psychologist in Queensland
Healing Connections Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Albany Creek, QLD 4035
Francene, Lee, Alanah & Grace share specialised expertise in working with people experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, grief and loss, life transitions and adjustments, parenting, chronic pain, complex trauma, panic, and more (please contact us to discuss further).
We are innately equipped for both struggle and connection, essential for enhancing our life experiences in areas like relationships, work, parenting, and beyond. Recognising the impact of adversity, it's important to understand how it shapes our emotional experiences and reactions. Adversity manifests in various ways, influencing our ability to express and process emotions across the spectrum - from joy and happiness to sadness and fear. Our team provides a supportive space that fosters a safe, warm, and empathetic environment where you can openly explore and discuss your personal experiences, through trauma-informed perspectives.
Francene, Lee, Alanah & Grace share specialised expertise in working with people experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, grief and loss, life transitions and adjustments, parenting, chronic pain, complex trauma, panic, and more (please contact us to discuss further).
We are innately equipped for both struggle and connection, essential for enhancing our life experiences in areas like relationships, work, parenting, and beyond. Recognising the impact of adversity, it's important to understand how it shapes our emotional experiences and reactions. Adversity manifests in various ways, influencing our ability to express and process emotions across the spectrum - from joy and happiness to sadness and fear. Our team provides a supportive space that fosters a safe, warm, and empathetic environment where you can openly explore and discuss your personal experiences, through trauma-informed perspectives.
(07) 3062 8591 View (07) 3062 8591
Photo of Wisemind & Body, Psychologist in Queensland
Wisemind & Body
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Southport, QLD 4215
Areas of Interest include: Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Anxiety Disorder (Generalised, Panic, Agoraphobia, Phobias); Traumas and posttraumatic stress, Adjustment Disorder Personality Disorders, Eating Disorders Gender confirmation, Body image, Health Psychology, life-cycle transition, identity issues Chronic pain, CALD, Education and more!.
Wisemind & Body Clinicians work with children, adolescents, adults, families and organisations across various presentations. We aim to create a safe space for each individual and assist them through a warm, empathetic, and Trauma-informed approach while building and maintaining a strong therapeutic alliance with each of our clients. We ensure that each client's presentation is entailed towards them and provide various evidence-based interventions with achievable treatment plans to have the best possible outcomes for clients for any presentation, concerns, or goals they may have. Call us now on or email us!
Areas of Interest include: Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Anxiety Disorder (Generalised, Panic, Agoraphobia, Phobias); Traumas and posttraumatic stress, Adjustment Disorder Personality Disorders, Eating Disorders Gender confirmation, Body image, Health Psychology, life-cycle transition, identity issues Chronic pain, CALD, Education and more!.
Wisemind & Body Clinicians work with children, adolescents, adults, families and organisations across various presentations. We aim to create a safe space for each individual and assist them through a warm, empathetic, and Trauma-informed approach while building and maintaining a strong therapeutic alliance with each of our clients. We ensure that each client's presentation is entailed towards them and provide various evidence-based interventions with achievable treatment plans to have the best possible outcomes for clients for any presentation, concerns, or goals they may have. Call us now on or email us!
(07) 2801 6810 View (07) 2801 6810
Photo of Eleasa Pearce - People Psychology, Psychologist in Queensland
Eleasa Pearce - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Eleasa Pearce has extensive experience counselling clients and can help you if you’re experiencing: Anxiety Panic Attacks Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations) Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Early childhood trauma Depression Relationship issues / counselling and interpersonal issues Eco anxiety and client grief Values exploration Burnout Workplace stress and career change Communication skills Grief and loss Chronic pain Stress-related conditions Coaching Anger Management Sleep difficulties Medicare, Private Health Insurers, NDIS, TAC and WorkCover Psychologist Reports. EMDR Specialist.
Eleasa Pearce has extensive experience counselling clients and can help you if you’re experiencing: Anxiety Panic Attacks Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations) Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Early childhood trauma Depression Relationship issues / counselling and interpersonal issues Eco anxiety and client grief Values exploration Burnout Workplace stress and career change Communication skills Grief and loss Chronic pain Stress-related conditions Coaching Anger Management Sleep difficulties Medicare, Private Health Insurers, NDIS, TAC and WorkCover Psychologist Reports. EMDR Specialist.
(03) 7003 2671 View (03) 7003 2671
Photo of Dr Arthur Stabolidis: The Psychology Suite, Psychologist in Queensland
Dr Arthur Stabolidis: The Psychology Suite
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
You have come here with a concern you want some help with. Understanding that concern, its impact on your life, and its place within the story of your life is an integral part of the therapy process. My specialty clinical interests include adult ADHD assessment and treatment, anxiety, depression, stress management, and helping clients navigate significant life changes. I am also trained in clinical hypnotherapy which I utilise in the management of chronic pain conditions such as endometriosis, fibro neuralgia and IBS.
You have come here with a concern you want some help with. Understanding that concern, its impact on your life, and its place within the story of your life is an integral part of the therapy process. My specialty clinical interests include adult ADHD assessment and treatment, anxiety, depression, stress management, and helping clients navigate significant life changes. I am also trained in clinical hypnotherapy which I utilise in the management of chronic pain conditions such as endometriosis, fibro neuralgia and IBS.
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Photo of Friends for Good Counselling and Wellbeing Service, Psychologist in Queensland
Friends for Good Counselling and Wellbeing Service
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
Our team have extensive experience helping people with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, chronic pain, low self-esteem, relationship issues, isolation and loneliness and the stress of modern life.
The Friends for Good Counselling and Wellbeing Service is a team of dedicated Psychologists and Counselors ready to help with mental health challenges via Telehealth. Our service is inclusive, flexible, affordable and person-centered. The service is run by Friends for Good, a national not-for-profit and all proceeds go towards supporting our free services helping people who experience loneliness and social isolation.
Our team have extensive experience helping people with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, chronic pain, low self-esteem, relationship issues, isolation and loneliness and the stress of modern life.
The Friends for Good Counselling and Wellbeing Service is a team of dedicated Psychologists and Counselors ready to help with mental health challenges via Telehealth. Our service is inclusive, flexible, affordable and person-centered. The service is run by Friends for Good, a national not-for-profit and all proceeds go towards supporting our free services helping people who experience loneliness and social isolation.
(03) 7003 2712 View (03) 7003 2712
Photo of Carolyn Uhlmann, Psychologist in Queensland
Carolyn Uhlmann
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring Hill, QLD 4000
Carolyn Uhlmann is a registered Psychologist based in Brisbane. Carolyn has worked in a range of community, hospital and private practice settings and currently works part-time with a multidisciplinary public diabetes and endocrine health service. Carolyn is passionate about her work and supporting people to adjust to changes in their health and life circumstances. In her part-time private practice Carolyn provides appointments in person, and via telehealth & phone at Brisbane Endocrine, 225 Wickham Tce, Spring Hill Qld. P 3051 0376 https://www.brisbaneendo.com.au/
Carolyn Uhlmann is a registered Psychologist based in Brisbane. Carolyn has worked in a range of community, hospital and private practice settings and currently works part-time with a multidisciplinary public diabetes and endocrine health service. Carolyn is passionate about her work and supporting people to adjust to changes in their health and life circumstances. In her part-time private practice Carolyn provides appointments in person, and via telehealth & phone at Brisbane Endocrine, 225 Wickham Tce, Spring Hill Qld. P 3051 0376 https://www.brisbaneendo.com.au/
(07) 4847 6792 View (07) 4847 6792
Photo of JCM Psychology, Psychologist in Queensland
JCM Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Noosaville, QLD 4566
JCM Psychology is a boutique private practice based in Noosa on the Sunshine Coast. As the clinical director, Jessie McDonald is a clinical psychologist with a special interest in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, persistent pain and personality disorders. She has a warm & empathic approach, with a focus on providing a safe and trusting space for all people she works with. Jessie enjoys working with adults seeking to gain insight, develop adaptive coping strategies, break self-defeating patterns, process trauma, & move toward new areas of self awareness and growth.
JCM Psychology is a boutique private practice based in Noosa on the Sunshine Coast. As the clinical director, Jessie McDonald is a clinical psychologist with a special interest in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, persistent pain and personality disorders. She has a warm & empathic approach, with a focus on providing a safe and trusting space for all people she works with. Jessie enjoys working with adults seeking to gain insight, develop adaptive coping strategies, break self-defeating patterns, process trauma, & move toward new areas of self awareness and growth.
(07) 5230 8931 View (07) 5230 8931
Photo of Laura Jordan, Psychologist in Queensland
Laura Jordan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Paddington, QLD 4064
I am a clinical psychologist who has also previously completed a Master of Counselling degree. My qualifications and 10+ years' experience enables me to integrate a range of therapeutic approaches, while also ensuring that the support provided is client-centred and tailored to each individual's needs. Evidence-based therapies that I incorporate include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema therapy, Mindfulness, Solution Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a clinical psychologist who has also previously completed a Master of Counselling degree. My qualifications and 10+ years' experience enables me to integrate a range of therapeutic approaches, while also ensuring that the support provided is client-centred and tailored to each individual's needs. Evidence-based therapies that I incorporate include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema therapy, Mindfulness, Solution Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
(07) 3184 4023 View (07) 3184 4023

See more therapy options for Queensland

Chronic Pain Counsellors

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophising, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.